Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Celebrity jewelry designer and reality star Lynn Ban, 51, revealed she underwent emergency brain surgery following what initially seemed like a minor ski accident in Aspen on Christmas Eve. The "Bling Empire: New York" star shared her experience in a December 30 Instagram post, accompanied by photos showing her post-surgery condition. "And in a blink of an eye...life can change," Ban wrote, documenting her experience from a seemingly routine ski mishap to a life-threatening situation. Despite wearing a helmet, Ban faced planted after her ski tip caught on something, though she was initially able to ski to the bottom of the slope. Following protocol, she sought evaluation from ski patrol for a potential concussion. Though cleared initially, Ban explained, "I had a bit of a headache but thought after lunch it would be fine and I could ski again. The paramedic suggested I go to the hospital for a cat scan." This cautionary measure proved crucial. "This saved my life," Ban stated. Within 30 minutes of arriving at the hospital with her husband Jett, doctors discovered a brain bleed, necessitating an emergency airlift to a trauma center. Ban recalls, "The last thing I remember was being intubated and waking up after an emergency craniotomy with Jett by my side." The designer, known for creating pieces worn by celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys, and Billy Porter, expressed gratitude while acknowledging her recovery journey: "There's a long road of recovery ahead but I'm a survivor and grateful to ski patrol, the incredible team of doctors and nurses and the [love] and support my family and friends. GOD IS GOOD. Grateful and blessed to see the new year." Her "Bling Empire: New York" costar Dorothy Wang offered support, commenting, "Omg lynn i have chills. so happy you are okay and have your incredible tribe by your side. sending you all my love and and wishing you healing." A NI council is calling for the removal of Israeli flags from lampposts (Stock image). Pic: Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph A Northern Ireland council is to write to both the PSNI and the Department for Infrastructure calling for the removal of Israel flags from lampposts. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council voted in favour of calling for the flags removal after an Alliance councillor said he had been contacted by residents from the Hospital Road area of Omagh. Councillor Stephen Donnelly told the council the erection of the Israeli flags led to concerns of territorial demarcation from the residents. There seems to be sluggishness to even engage in a process around the removal of items of this nature, he said. There is a real perception that anybody can put up anything on a lamppost and it wont come down. Essentially there is just a free rein where people can engage in criminal activity. This is playing out on lampposts in our community where chill factors are created because of a sense of trying to assert a particular political land-grab on particular areas. Mr Donnelly proposed writing to the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Western Division and the PSNI to ask for the issue to be looked at. Seconding, Sinn Fein councillor Dermot Browne said he is regularly contacted about Israeli flags in Enniskillen but also UVF flags, sectarian posters and everything else. We get the same stock response, he continued. PSNI wont take them down, nor will Roads Service or anyone else. Clearly there are circumstances when they decide they must take items down because there are examples where confederate flags and swastikas come down very quickly. Somebody is making decisions on which flags are too contentious, and which are not contentious enough. I want to know how someone can think an Israeli or UVF flag is not contentious because thats complete nonsense. DUP councillor Errol Thompson described the proposal as divisive, pointing out that flags have been an ongoing issue for years. I dont think its ever going to resolve itself to be honest, he said. We had the Flags and Emblems Commission, discussions, working groups and everything else. I have also received correspondence about Palestinian flags which people see as very aggressive, as well as offensive slogans on walls. I dont know where the line is drawn in this. People are mentioning Israeli flags but there are a lot of Palestinian flags right across this district causing offence. UUP councillor Robert Irvine felt the problem comes from all sides of the community. He added: Its wrong for us to highlight whats coming from one side without acknowledging the other displays offensive signs as well. Stormont should be legislating on this and they cant find agreement. We have to be unanimous in condemnation of all flags that bring harm and hurt to all and both sides of the community rather than singling out one. The decision to write to both the DfI and the PSNI was passed by a vote of 36 to 11 with one abstention. A NI council is calling for the removal of Israeli flags from lampposts (Stock image). Pic: Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph News Catch Up - Tuesday 31 December NIO feared Belfast City Airport was too open to attack by dissident republicans Spanish owners warned that PSNI would be deployed if management didnt act on requests to enhance security Belfast City Airport Sam McBride Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 07:16 The government believed in 2003 that Belfast City Airport was wide open to terrorist attack, yet its owners refused to provide adequate security for two years, a declassified file has revealed. Future Stormont Speaker endorsed request from Belfast Islamic Centre Sinn Fein's Alex Maskey pictured outside the Belfast Islamic Centre after it was attacked in 2013. Photo: William Cherry/Presseye Sinn Fein MLA Alex Maskey supported public funding for an Islamic religious school in Belfast and wanted Islam to be included on the school curriculum, according to a declassified government file. The file, which has been opened under the 20 year rule at the Public Record Office in Belfast, contains correspondence which Mr Maskey forwarded to the Department of Education on behalf of Belfast Islamic Centre. The introduction of water rates in Northern Ireland could be the key to addressing crumbling waste water infrastructure and the impact on waterways, it has been suggested. It comes as the Stormont Executive works to halt an environmental crisis at Lough Neagh where noxious blooms of blue-green algae have covered the surface of the water across the past two summers. The lough is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the UK and Ireland, supplies 40% of Northern Irelands drinking water and sustains a major eel-fishing industry. But it is facing a perfect storm of a crisis caused by pollution, nutrients, climate change and invasive species, according to Gerry Darby, manager of the Lough Neagh Partnership. He praised the approach and actions taken so far by Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir but warned of wider problems that need a whole-of-Executive approach. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Darby said the Lough Neagh Action Plan, and particularly the setting up of a stakeholder forum led by Mr Muir, was very positive and a first for a minister. Blue-green algae on Lough Neagh in July 2024 (Niall Carson/PA) He said 10 of the actions have already been implemented, including water inspectors and looking to the private sector for innovation, but it will take decades to start to see improvement. Is the nutrient level going to come down immediately, no its not, is the level of phosphorus going to come down, probably not, but at least you can now begin to look at setting targets, Mr Darby said. Its important to remember its not just farmers, there are a lot of nutrients coming in off the waste management processing units within NI Water and septic tanks were all contributing to it and other factors such as topography, there is only one river out of the lough, there is not great flow to flush it out. Gerry Darby, manager of the Lough Neagh Partnership, speaks to the PA news agency at the Lock Keepers Cottage in Toome, Co Antrim (Rebecca Black/PA) There is also climate change as well as invasive species in there. It all came together to create a perfect storm and at least the minister has engaged with many organisations to try and find solutions. It will be a long-term solution, nobody has ever suggested that the reduction of nutrients in Lough Neagh is going to happen overnight, it is estimated that it will take somewhere between 10 to 20 years before were beginning to see change. However Mr Darby said part of the problem is that people assume the blue-green algae is the only problem in the lough, pointing out the absence of a navigation authority as well as the waste water system which was described by the head of NI Water as being at breaking point. He said addressing the waste water system will require the hard choice between trying to secure more money from the London Government, rejigging the already strained Stormont budget or considering charging water rates. While non-domestic water charges already apply in Northern Ireland, there has been strong political opposition to introducing domestic water charges. The other elephant in the room is the money needed for infrastructure for waste water management. This year the budget of NI Water for capital investment has been cut in half. That is a big, serious issue that politicians need to find an answer to, Mr Darby said. Blue-green algae on the River Bann where it meets Lough Neagh near the village of Toome, Co Antrim (Niall Carson/PA) There are three choices you ask Westminster to cough up more, Stormont reprioritises budgets, or else the big controversial one is that you introduce water rates, which is pretty standard in the rest of the UK. I couldnt comment on that personally but I think it is something that needs to be given serious consideration to in the context of the issues also facing Belfast Lough. The problem of course is that it is political dynamite. Researchers in Dublin have produced a report showing the benefits of a plurilingual approach in teaching Irish in primary schools, particularly children whose first language is not Irish or English. The Dublin City University (DCU) project said it promotes cultural diversity in schools by encouraging children in English-medium primary schools to draw on all of their linguistic knowledge. Ireland is a multilingual country with more than 200 languages spoken daily. Polish is the most commonly spoken outside of Irish and English. Almost 124,000 people speak Polish as their home language, which represents 16.5% of the population. Dr Aisling Ni Dhiorbhain (Brian Lawless/PA) Dr Aisling Ni Dhiorbhan and Dr Tara Concannon-Gibney, of the DCU Sealbhu Research Centre for the Learning and Teaching of Irish, compiled the report, laying out guidance for the development of a plurilingual approach to Irish teaching. Between 60% and 80% of the 291 children across five schools who took part in the project, which was funded by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaiochta (COGG), had another home language apart from English or Irish. Dr Ni Dhiorbhain said there is an increasing linguistic and cultural diversity in Irelands schools, which includes children who do not have English as their first language. These kids are coming to school with really valuable linguistic knowledge, and we wanted to look at ways to support children to use their home languages in school to affirm this linguistic and cultural diversity, she added. Were very passionate about Gaeilge as well, and we see the potential for Irish as a common second language to provide more opportunities for children to develop language learning skills, and then to use their home languages in class as well. Its emphasised to encourage children who have home languages other than Irish and English, to use their language at school. But we looked at practically, how to do that. We wanted to find a practical way to show teachers how they can support children in using all of their linguistic knowledge. All linguistic knowledge is an asset. When children come to school, a majority of children would have English as a home language, whereas when theyre learning Irish, the majority of children are learning Irish as a second language, so theyre all starting off from the beginning. It shows the potential of Irish to connect all of the other languages. Theres huge cultural advantages to learning Irish, but something that isnt recognised enough are the values of learning Irish because it is an additional language. Youre developing skills of analysing, looking at patterns. If you learn how to do that when youre learning Irish, thats transferable when learning French or Spanish or German. Its the idea, supporting the Gaeilge and also supporting the use of home languages in schools as well. Dr Concannon-Gibney added: We have a curriculum that emphasises and encourages a plurilingual approach to languages, and that has kind of been in the ether for a couple of years now, but teachers need more support in looking at the practicalities of what that actually looks like in a classroom. This project has a professional development aspect to it, so we looked at strategies that might empower teachers to try this out in classrooms. Ireland is such a unique country in the fact that we have English and Irish taught in primary school, and theyre both national languages, as well as being in a diverse society. We felt like we really needed to add to the body of knowledge that is out there. Dr Ni Dhiorbhain said children are discovering rules and patterns of different languages. The multilingual children are our best language learners. Theres such potential to support Irish. The children could see the cognitive advantages for learning Irish, she added. Dr Concannon-Gibney also said it is important to show children whose first language is not Irish or English that their home language has value in the school system. Developing that home language is important because research shows us that the more languages you have, and the more you develop them across, say reading, writing or languages, it actually becomes more and more beneficial to a child, she added. And it really promotes an analytical mindset as well, which is really key in the primary school curriculum. It is important to not just recognise the linguistic diversity that we have in our schools and classrooms and our society, but also to actively encourage it in the classroom, that children get opportunities to use their language for repertoire and using Gaeilge as the driver, was a really positive one. The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris (PA) The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris at the age of 98. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside, following decades of seeking justice for his 39-year-old daughter. The beaten body of Ms Toscan du Plantier was found on an isolated pathway near her holiday home at Toormore near Schull, Co Cork, two days before Christmas in 1996. Her elderly parents, Georges and Marguerite Bouniol, often made an annual visit from Paris where they lived to west Cork to mark the anniversary of her murder. They usually travelled to attend an anniversary mass for their daughter with their son Bertrand and Sophies son Pierre-Louis. Mr Bouniols death comes days after the 28th anniversary of his daughters murder. Ian Bailey outside the High Court, Dublin (PA) The main suspect in her murder, Ian Bailey, died in Cork in January earlier this year aged 66. The British journalist was questioned twice by gardai investigating her death, but was never charged for the murder. Mr Bailey has long denied any involvement in her death. Mr Bailey, who lived at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of murder in his absence by a French court in May 2019. The three-judge court imposed a 25-year sentence. In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite him for the murder. In September this year, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that a cold case review into her murder should be completed before any decision on an inquiry was made. The Tanaiste Micheal Martin had also criticised the legal systems handling of the case, saying Ireland failed to find and convict a murderer. NUJ members hold a vigil on Dublins Hapenny Bridge in protest at the killings of journalists in Gaza (Niall Carson/PA) Hundreds of people have taken part in a vigil in Dublin to show support for Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza. Members of the Irish press gathered for the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign New Years Eve vigil at the Hapenny Bridge in protest over the killing of journalists by Israeli forces. It has been reported by the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate that more than 190 journalists have been killed by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) since the war in Gaza began. Members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) lined the bridge while a currach with Irish and Palestinian flags rowed along the River Liffey. NUJ members hold a vigil on Dublins Hapenny Bridge (Niall Carson/PA) RTE education correspondent Emma OKelly said: As NUJ members, we believe it is really important to gather and openly express solidarity and support for journalists working in Gaza, who are under attack and being killed by Israel. Everyone who is killed is a tragedy but the problem with journalism is that if you kill journalists, you are also killing the truth and preventing a story from getting out. That is why we feel it is incumbent on us to be here and stand up for our sisters and brothers who are working in Gaza and being killed for doing their job. We are also very concerned that Israel is not letting international media in to Gaza. Again, this all contributes to the stifling of the really important story. We need journalists in there, we need journalists to be allowed to report the truth freely, and this is not happening. The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has criticised the international communitys failure to prevent the escalation of the conflict in Gaza and to protect civilians there, as he likened modern warfare to terror. In his message for World Day of Peace, Archbishop Eamon Martin said the near-complete destruction of Gaza, and the bringing of its population to the brink of famine, is, by any standard, a disproportionate measure. In a plea for global peace, Dr Martin highlighted how the horrors and brutality of war are being inflicted across the world today from the Middle East to Ukraine, Sudan to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen and Myanmar. Sadly, the list is long and shameful, he said. Highlighting how in 2023 an estimated US$2.5 trillion was spent on armaments and military resources, he noted that the amount has since increased while the world continues to tolerate the escalation in production, supply, trade and use of weapons of war though so many other human needs need to be prioritised and resourced. Such expenditure cannot be reconciled with our Christian commitment to reconciliation and peace, or with the beliefs of any of the worlds major faiths and religions, or with secular principles of the common good and the flourishing of humanity, he said. Money earmarked for armaments, Dr Martin said, should be used to tackle hunger, famine, the impact of climate change, the scourge of addictions, and the essential health and educational needs of millions of people throughout the world. Referring to Pope Francis message for World Day of Peace, he quoted the Pontiffs plea that a fixed percentage of the money earmarked for armaments might be used instead for a global fund to eradicate hunger and facilitate education for sustainable development and combating climate change. Such a commitment, the Pope said, would help disarm hearts so easily filled with anxiety, with the fear of war, or a desire for vengeance. Francis also appealed for greater effort to be made to eliminate every pretext that encourages young people to regard their future as hopeless or dominated by the thirst to avenge the blood of their dear ones. The future is a gift meant to enable us to go beyond past failures and to pave new paths of peace, he said. The war has displaced millions of Palestinians and left tens of thousands dead (AP) Archbishop Martin hit out at the use of sophisticated and powerful weapons, especially in the midst of streets, homes, hospitals and schools, which he said makes it difficult to distinguish so-called modern warfare from terror. How can tactics, which cause thousands of civilian deaths, alongside the whole scale destruction of food, water, health services and other infrastructure that is essential for survival, ever hope to restore justice and rights, resolve differences, respect human dignity, or provide a path for reconciliation and peace? he challenged. In relation to Gaza specifically, the Archbishop reiterated his condemnation of the egregious 7th October 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad on Israel, including the taking of hostages, 100 of whom are still held captive in Gaza. However, he hit out at the merciless and disproportionate response by Israel which has seen over 45,000 people including 17,000 children cut down and two million people forcibly displaced. Almost the entire population of Gaza is living in extreme hunger, and despite the reality of catastrophic famine conditions for hundreds of thousands of desperate civilians, humanitarian access is effectively blocked. Notwithstanding the rulings of the International Court of Justice on protection from genocide, on illegal occupation of territories and on systemic discrimination, the international community has failed to prevent the escalation of conflict and to protect civilians, he criticised. Mourners carry the bodies of five Palestinian journalists (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP) The senior church leader said he was conscious that those who have expressed similar views to his on Gaza have been accused of anti-semitism. Stressing that he abhorred the violations by Hamas and other Islamist militant groups against the people of Israel, he said he fully supports the right of Israelis to live in peace and security. He added, This right has to be achieved in the context of a just peace, where the legitimate rights of Palestinians are also protected in line with international law. Joining with Pope Francis, Dr Martin prayed that the sound of arms would be silenced. May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war; may the doors of dialogue and peace be flung open throughout the region, devastated by conflict. Separately, in their New Years message, the leaders of the main churches in Ireland have expressed the hope that the language of hurt and division would be confined to the past so that the words we use, and the actions we undertake, may be focused on love rather than hate, peace rather than war, light rather than darkness. Bob Geldof urged Tony Blair to take the lead in overhauling the system of international development aid for Africa as he considered African leadership on the issue to be very weak, according to newly released government files. The LiveAid campaigner and former rock star was instrumental in persuading Mr Blair to establish his Commission for Africa which paved the way for a landmark agreement by the worlds richest nations to boost aid and write off debt. Official papers released to the National Archives in Kew, west London, show that behind the scenes he cautioned the then prime minister not to share leadership with an African co-chair as he was scathing about the ability and worthiness of virtually all African leaders. Geldof first raised the the prospect of Mr Blair developing a Marshall Plan for Africa a reference to the US plan to rebuild Europe after the Second World War in a telephone call in October 2003. Bob Geldof with Sir Paul McCartney at a Live 8 concert in Hyde Park ahead of the G8 summit (Yui Mok/PA) He suggested that the UKs presidency of the G8 group of industrialised nations in 2005 coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the original LiveAid concert would be the perfect time to unveil a fresh vision for the future of the continent. He argued that unless we found a way to allow Africans to make livelihoods at home they would would come to our shores, resulting in massive social upheaval, adding African leadership had been very weak. In a follow-up letter, he said the result should be an age-defining document which provides a a holistic, coherent, rather than piecemeal rescue plan for the beleaguered billion of Africa. And he stressed that Mr Blairs personal leadership was vital if it was to succeed. I do think this needs to be a direct commission from you personally your vision, your authority, your weight, he wrote. As you rightly said, Africa is not politics, its a passion. Your passion on this stuff is what gives us the hope we have and makes the issue alive, which is why this must come from you personally, clear of the levelling, deadening hand of government initiative. He also stressed the need for urgency if the commission was to complete its work in time for the G8 summit Mr Blair was hosting at Gleneagles in July 2005. I know Im pushy, and I know youre up to your neck, but something short of the normal seven-week delay response would be welcome (do you use Royal Mail?). Seriously though, this must be implemented almost immediately, he wrote. The prime minister was clearly enthusiastic, but some Downing Street officials urged caution. One warned they could face opprobrium from Geldof and his fellow LiveAid campaigner Bono if they were unable to deliver on the plan. Liz Lloyd, a senior adviser on international development, expressed concern over Geldofs desire that the commission, while being chaired Mr Blair, should still be independent. If this document is going to have your name and be sold by you, he must accept that we have the final editing role, she wrote. Tony Blair with Bob Geldof and Bono in No 10 Downing Street (PA) She said the issue of whether there should be a chairperson from Africa which Geldof strongly opposed was particularly tricky. He is scathing about the ability and worthiness of virtually all African leaders and sees the audience as primarily the US, she noted. He therefore does not want an African co-chair, content to ride with your name to give it credibility. While Ms Lloyd said that they should be able to get away without an African co-chair they would need prominent African involvement. She suggested that Mr Blair should talk carefully to South African president Thabo Mbeki beforehand to secure his support. At a meeting with Geldof on January 6 2004, the prime minister stressed that he would have to agree with the commissions findings if he was to recommend them to his fellow G8 leaders. In particular, he said the section on financing had to contain credible commitments and that then chancellor Gordon Brown would lead on the issue. Large spending demands would not be well received by other G8 colleagues, he said. In the event, Geldof hailed the ensuing agreement at Gleneagles to double aid and extend debt relief as mission accomplished although some anti-poverty campaigners complained that he had got too close to government and that it did not go far enough. Fireworks explode over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Years Eve celebrations in Sydney (Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP) Cities around the world have begun to ring in the new year. Countries in the South Pacific Ocean were the first to welcome 2025, with midnight in New Zealand striking 18 hours before the ball drop in New Yorks Times Square in the US. In Australia, an estimated one million people celebrated at Sydney Harbour, while some two million people were expected to flock to Copacabana Beach in Brazil. Here are some of the colourful scenes from across the globe so far: Two boys play football in front of a billboard welcoming the new year 2025 in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam (Hau Dinh/AP) Swimmers attend the traditional New Years Eve swimming at Lake Moossee in Moosseedorf, Switzerland (Anthony Anex/Keystone via AP) Fireworks explode over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Years Eve celebrations (Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP) An Egyptian poses in front of new year decorations in Cairo, Egypt (Amr Nabil/AP) Cambodian dancers perform during the Celebrating Cambodia event on New Years Eve in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh (Heng Sinith/AP) People gather in the main business district on New Years Eve in Jakarta, Indonesia (Tatan Syuflana/AP) A monk hits the bell at the Bentendo Hall of Sensoji Buddhist temple in a bell-ringing ritual called Joya no Kane on New Years Day in Tokyo (Hiro Komae/AP) Hong Kong welcomed the New Year with an elaborate fireworks display (Chan Long Hei/AP) Pope Francis waves to faithfuls after celebrating over New Years Eve Vespers and Te Deum, in St Peters Basilica at the Vatican (Andrew Medichini/AP) People light fireworks as they celebrate New Years Eve near the Gateway of India, in Mumbai (Rafiq Maqbool/AP) A couple share a tender moment as they walk with their child in a square decorated for Christmas and the New Year festivities in Donetsk in Russian-controlled Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine (Alexei Alexandrov/AP) A woman gathers with revellers near the Petronas Twin Towers to watch the fireworks for the New Years celebrations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Andy Wong/AP) Rescue team members work Tuesday at the site of a plane crash at Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea. The crash is a topper for a bad year for Boeing Co. Ahn Young-joon/Associated Press A machinists strike. Layoffs. Another safety problem involving its troubled top-selling airliner. A plunging stock price. 2024 was already a dispiriting year for Boeing Co., but when one of the companys jets crash-landed Sunday in South Korea, killing all but two of the 181 people on board, it brought to a close an especially unfortunate year for the American aviation giant. It employs about 3,000 people in San Antonio among nearly 5,700 it has at operations across Texas. Sundays crash was also a topper on the deadliest year for commercial aviation since 2018, a year marked by the first of two Boeing 737 Max crashes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While the cause of Sundays crash remains under investigation, aviation experts were quick to distinguish the incident from the companys earlier safety problems. Alan Price, a former chief pilot at Delta Air Lines who is now a consultant, said it would be inappropriate to link Sundays incident to the two fatal crashes involving Boeings troubled 737 Max jetliner in 2018 and 2019. In January of this year, a door plug blew off a 737 Max while it was in flight, raising more questions about the plane. The Boeing 737-800 that crash-landed in Korea, Price noted, is a very proven airplane. Its different from the Max Its a very safe airplane. Preliminary examinations say the pilots received a bird strike warning from the ground control center that may have caused engine failure and led to the crash. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For decades, Boeing has maintained a role as one of the giants of American manufacturing. But the past years repeated troubles have been damaging. The companys stock price finished the year down more than 32%. In the five years through 2024, its price has been nearly halved. The companys reputation for safety was especially tarnished by the 737 Max crashes, which occurred off the coast of Indonesia and in Ethiopia less than five months apart in 2018 and 2019 and left a combined 346 people dead. In the five years since then, Boeing has lost more than $23 billion. And it has fallen behind its European rival, Airbus, in selling and delivering new planes. Boeing has also weathered damaging revelations about its operations in San Antonio, where the Defense Department last year suspended employees while investigating why they lacked proper security credentials when working on Air Force One planes the company outfits at Port San Antonio. In late 2021, Boeing said it was investigating the discovery of two empty miniature tequila bottles on one of its new Air Force One planes under development. In 2022, it said factory problems disrupted production of the new presidential fleet, which was already far behind schedule. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This fall, 33,000 Boeing machinists went on strike, crippling the production of the 737 Max, the companys bestseller, the 777 airliner and 767 cargo plane. The walkout lasted seven weeks, until members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers agreed to an offer that included 38% pay raises over four years. In January, a door plug blew off a 737 Max during an Alaska Airlines flight. Federal regulators responded by imposing limits on Boeing aircraft production that they said would remain in place until they felt confident about manufacturing safety at the company. In July, Boeing agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud for deceiving the Federal Aviation Administration regulators who approved the 737 Max. Acting on Boeings incomplete disclosures, the FAA approved minimal, computer-based training instead of more intensive training in flight simulators. Simulator training would have increased the cost for airlines to operate the Max and might have pushed some to buy planes from Airbus instead. (Prosecutors said they lacked evidence to argue that Boeings deception had played a role in the crashes.) But the plea deal was rejected this month by a federal judge in Texas, Reed OConnor, who decided that diversity, inclusion and equity or DEI policies in the government and at Boeing could result in race being a factor in choosing an official to oversee Boeings compliance with the agreement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Boeing has sought to change its culture. Under intense pressure over safety issues, David Calhoun departed as CEO in August. Boeing is now on its third chief executive in five years, having hired Kelly Ortberg, an outsider who previously ran Rockwell Collins. He joined the company later in August. In October, Boeing reported a third-quarter loss of more than $6 billion because of charges for several commercial, defense and space programs and the impact of the strike on deliveries. The companys continuing financial trouble paired with the impact of the strike also led to layoffs of 10% of its workforce, which stood at 171,000 at the end of 2023. Exclusive | Family of missing Belfast man fear suspects will flee Spain after fruitless meeting with police Relatives want help in finding son they believe has been murdered in Spain John George Allison Morris Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 07:09 The family of missing Belfast man John George has met with Spanish police as fears grow that the main suspects in his disappearance are planning to flee the jurisdiction. A team of US investigators including representatives from Boeing have examined the site of a plane crash that killed 179 people in South Korea. The probe into the disaster in Muan continues as authorities conduct safety inspections on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by the countrys airlines. All but two of the 181 people aboard the Boeing 737-800 operated by South Korean budget airline Jeju Air died in Sundays crash. Most of the dead have been identified (Son Hyung-joo/Yonhap via AP) Video shows that the aircraft, without its landing gear deployed, crash-landed on its belly and overshot a runaway at South Koreas southern Muan International Airport before it slammed into a concrete barrier and burst into flames. The plane appeared to develop engine trouble, and preliminary examinations also say the pilots received a bird strike warning from the ground control centre and issued a distress signal. However, many experts say the landing gear issue was likely the main cause of the crash. The South Korean government has launched safety inspections on all the 101 Boeing 737-800s in the country. The Transport Ministry said authorities are looking at maintenance and operation records during five days of safety checks that are to run until Friday. The ministry said that a delegation of eight US investigators one from the Federal Aviation Administration, three from National Transportation Safety Board and four from Boeing made an on-site visit to the crash site on Tuesday. Safety checks are under way (Kim Sung-min/Yonhap via AP) Kim E-bae, Jeju Airs president, told reporters that his company will add more maintenance workers and reduce flight operations by 10-15% until March as part of efforts to enhance the safety of aircraft operations. John Hansman, an aviation expert at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the crash was most likely the result of a problem with the planes hydraulic control systems. He said that would be consistent with the landing gear and wing flaps not being deployed and might indicate a control issue which would explain the rush to get on the ground. The Boeing 737-800 an earlier version of 737 than the Max is a widely used plane with a good safety record, according to Najmedin Meshkati, an engineering professor at the University of Southern California who has studied aviation safety. He said the failure of the planes system for broadcasting location, operating its landing gear and extending the wing flaps to slow down, indicate a widespread problem that affected electrical and hydraulic systems. Mr Meshkati is confident that investigators will learn what went wrong by analysing information from the flight data and cockpit voice recorders. These are really the two pillars for accident analysis and accident reconstruction, he said. Like other aviation experts, Mr Meshkati also questioned the location of a solid wall just a few hundred feet past the end of the runway, given that planes do occasionally overshoot runways. Having such a big concrete barrier over there was really very bad luck for this particular aeroplane, he said. South Korean officials have said they will look into whether the Muan airports localiser a concrete fence housing a set of antennas designed to guide aircraft safely during landings should have been made with lighter materials that would break more easily upon impact. The crash was the deadliest disaster in decades for South Korean aviation. A seven-day period of national mourning has been declared until January 4. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content The Transport Ministry said authorities have identified 175 bodies and are conducting DNA tests on the remaining five. Bereaved families said that officials told them that the bodies were so badly damaged that officials need time before returning them to relatives. On Tuesday, Park Han Shin, a representative of the families, accused the government of failing to provide freezers on time as promised and said there are worries that the bodies could decompose. The last dignities of the victims are seriously hurt. We strongly criticise authorities for failing to keep its promise, the representative said. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin has lost his bid to reject 9/11 plea deals (Efrem Lukatsky/AP) A military appeals court has ruled against US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austins bid to throw out the plea deals reached for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two other defendants in the September 11 terror attacks, a US official said. The decision puts back on track the agreements that allow the three men to plead guilty to one of the deadliest attacks ever on the United States in exchange for being spared the possibility of the death penalty. The attacks by al-Qaida killed nearly 3,000 people on September 11 2001, and helped spur US invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq in what the George W Bush administration called its war on terror. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, center, and co-defendant Walid Bin Attash, left, attending a pre-trial session at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba (Janet Hamlin/AP) The military appeals court released its ruling on Monday night, according to the US official. Military prosecutors and defence lawyers for Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the attacks, and two co-defendants reached the plea agreements after two years of government-approved negotiations. The deals were announced late last summer. Supporters of the plea agreement see it as a way of resolving the legally troubled case against the men at the US military commission at Guantanamo Bay naval base in Cuba. Pretrial hearings for Mohammed, Walid bin Attash and Mustafa al-Hawsawi have been under way for more than a decade. Much of the focus of pre-trial arguments has been on how torture of the men while in CIA custody in the first years after their detention may taint the overall evidence in the case. Within days of news of the plea deal this summer, Mr Austin issued a brief order saying he was nullifying them. He cited the gravity of the 9/11 attacks in saying that as Defence Secretary, he should decide on any plea agreements that would spare the defendants the possibility of execution. Defence lawyers said Mr Austin had no legal authority to reject a decision already approved by the Guantanamo courts top authority and said the move amounted to unlawful interference in the case. The military judge hearing the 9/11 case, Air Force Col Matthew McCall, had agreed that Mr Austin lacked standing to throw out the plea bargains after they were under way. That had set up the US Defence Departments appeal to the military appeals court. Mr Austin now has the option of taking his effort to throw out the plea deals to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. There was no immediate word from the Pentagon on the next move. AI may be the death of us even if we still continue to rage against the machine 2025 must be a year of restoration for DUP, after return to Stormont sold by a leader whose exit plunged party into crisis management The politics of panic were very much in play for the two big beasts of the DUP and Sinn Fein in the past year, and as both try to recover major challenges lie ahead, as they do for Alliance, the SDLP, UUP and even the buoyant TUV Jeffrey Donaldson Suzanne Breen Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 07:22 Its been an annus horribilis for the DUP, but not in the way that many would have predicted at the start of 2024. 2024 brought the end of Jeffrey Donaldsons political career, Sinn Fein media fumbles and one girls night which shocked NI 2024 is almost over, and what a year it's been. From our newsroom weve seen big political returns, what feels like countless scandals, and that one girls night at the Devenish which shocked Northern Ireland. Its safe to say this year had its fair share of plot twists. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Editor-In-Chief Eoin Brannigan, Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride and crime correspondent Allison Morris to talk about the year in politics and crime. Hes also joined by Belfast Telegraph features editor Aine Toner, deputy features editor Gillian Halliday and assistant news editor Flavia Gouveia to discuss the more unconventional stories of the year. Driver who injected heroin behind the wheel was reported to police by ex-partner Road ban for west Belfast man who was shooting up in car Joseph McAuley John Toner Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 13:00 A cyber security professional whose ex-partner reported him to police for shooting up heroin behind the wheel has been banned from driving. Train manager who mistreated mistress no longer working on Enterprise service Judge branded board games enthusiast a coward over case as he sheepishly declines to talk to our man on the doorstep McKeown talking to Sunday Life John Toner Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 13:00 A veteran railway employee and board game enthusiast convicted of a despicable campaign of domestic abuse against his mistress is no longer working on the Enterprise train service. Annasofia Scheve covers trending news for the Express-News. She can be reached at Annasofia.Scheve@express-news.net. Annasofia has bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Missouri. She is an Ohio native, and wrote for Cincinnati Magazine and the Cincinnati Enquirer before joining the Express-News in 2023. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Its a few days before Christmas as I write this gotta love early deadlines! The presents are all wrapped and ribboned, my cards are mailed, the cookies are baked, boxed and delivered, and only my Jeep sleigh needs to be packed to go to my sons for Christmas. Reminder for next year dont buy the grandkids so many gifts and make sure the gifts are smaller in size With nothing much left to do, I can sit back with a glass or two of wine and reflect on 2024 as the new year looms. This year saw me traveling to Curacao with friends in February, two road trips with my family to Columbus, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pa., for family gatherings, with a surprise side trip to Niagara Falls. I also enjoyed two weeks on Chincoteague Island in Virginia. And lets not forget day trips to the Vermont Country Store and Salem at Halloween. My grandnephew and his wife came from Ohio for a long weekend. I had many breakfasts, lunches and dinner with good friends. I read many, many books; spent hours in the pool this summer and saw some great movies. Health-wise, except for my aching knees and back, things were good. All in all, I have no complaints about 2024. My plans for greeting the new year are simple. A friend is coming for dinner and a quiet night watching movies on some of the streaming services. If we make it to midnight, well greet 2025 along with Ryan Seacrest as the ball drops in Times Square. The odds are pretty good well both be in our respective beds! The dinner Im planning on making, pasta carbonara, checks all my culinary boxes its delicious, requires little prep, cooks fast and goes well with a simple salad and some toasty garlic bread, either store-bought or homemade. I wish everyone a happy and prosperous new year. PASTA CARBONARA (Courtesy rachelray.com) INGREDIENTS 1 pound spaghetti or 1 pound rigatoni pasta 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (enough to coat bottom of pan) 1/4 pound pancetta, chopped (Italian bacon) 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 5 -6 cloves garlic cloves, chopped 12 cup dry white wine 2 large egg yolks Romano cheese, freshly grated Fresh parsley, for garnish DIRECTIONS Put a large sauce pot of water on to boil. Add a liberal amount of salt and the pasta. Cook to al dente, about 8 minutes. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the EVOO (enough to coat the bottom of the pan) and pancetta. Brown the pancetta for 2 minutes. Add the red pepper flakes and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes more. Add the wine and stir up all the pan drippings. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then add 1 large ladleful (about 1/2 cup) of the starchy cooking water. This tempers the eggs and keeps them from scrambling when added to the pasta. Drain the pasta well and add it directly to the skillet with pancetta and oil. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta. Toss rapidly to coat the pasta without cooking the egg. Remove the pan from the heat and add a big handful of cheese, lots of pepper and a little salt. Continue to toss and turn the pasta until it soaks up the egg mixture and thickens 1-2 minutes. Garnish with parsley and extra grated Romano. If you go Agaves Mexican Grill in Lee Open: Daily for takeout or eating in Hours: Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Address: 30 Housatonic St. Phone: 413-349-4412 Perhaps in this moment of transition, it is time to seek some agreement upstream of politics: Can we once again value decency? If we can, then we have a model who happens to be on our minds this week: Former President Jimmy Carter. PITTSFIELD A former Massachusetts Superior Court judge will lead a law firms investigation of alleged improper or criminal behavior among several faculty members at Pittsfield High School. The Pittsfield School Committee, in a special meeting held Monday on Zoom, voted unanimously to enable its chair, William Cameron, to negotiate a contract with Bulkley Richardson & Gelinas LLP, a Springfield-based law firm. Mary-Lou Rup, a former Berkshire County defense attorney who served as an associate justice for the Massachusetts Superior Court from 1992 to 2018, will lead the investigation, Cameron said. She is a senior counsel at Bulkley Richardson & Gelinas. A second investigation will be undertaken to look at the school districts hiring practices and policies and human resources staffing, Cameron said. That agreement has yet to be drafted, he said. Five current or former Pittsfield High School educators, including a vice principal and both deans of students, are on administrative leave pending investigations by federal law enforcement and the state Department of Children and Families. Dean of students Lavante Wiggins faces charges of dealing cocaine, and dean of students Molly West, vice principal Alison Shepard, retired teacher Robert Barsanti and former teacher Taverick Tank Roberson are all under DCF investigation. Roberson, who left PHS to work as a program director at the Berkshire Family YMCA, has been placed on administrative leave by that organization. Rup, who was appointed to the bench in 1992 and served until her retirement from the bench in 2018, also served as a staff attorney with the Berkshire County office of the Massachusetts Defenders Committee in the 1980s. The work will commence as soon as the contract is signed as early as Tuesday, Cameron said and is expected to be completed by March 31. It will cost the city schools $275 per hour for the investigation and $110 per hour for paralegal services, Cameron told the committee. The draft agreement also allows the firm to bill for travel expenses at the federal mileage reimbursement rate, and "all fees and expenses for experts, consultants, and other outside providers of services." The investigation, Cameron said, will focus on alleged misbehavior by faculty at the high school, including a limited series of interviews of key witnesses, including the individuals involved and other credible sources of information. The goals are to substantiate or disprove the allegation and provide report of findings and recommendations to the committee. School Committee member Sara Hathaway asked whether the investigation would duplicate processes already in place under contracts with the unions representing teachers and administrators, and whether such a probe would violate the terms of those contracts. Cameron said thats not the case. The union owes a duty of fair representation to its members. They do not have the right to determine how we go about obtaining information unless we do it illegally, Cameron said. Asked by Mayor Peter Marchetti, an ex-officio school committee member, if the report will be made public, Cameron said yes, with the exception of details which cannot be disclosed under public records laws. Theres no intent here to cover anything up. But what I don't think we're in a position to do is to violate laws having to do with what's exempted from the public under public records laws, Cameron said. So whatever we are legally able to release, we will release. City Council and School Committee members, Marchetti and members of the public, in expressing outrage over the allegations, are adamant that the investigation results be made public. Hathaway also asked about the scope of the investigation and its focus on alleged misconduct at PHS. I thought we would be looking at problems in our system more than looking at the allegations. And frankly, the allegations are going to be addressed by the US Attorney and the state DCF," Hathaway said. "I thought we were going to look more at things like whether our social media practices need to change, whether our background and CORI check systems have flaws, whether the mandated reporting is occurring as it needs to occur." The second investigation, the scope of which has yet to be drafted, will take up those questions, Cameron replied. A Boston-based law firm, Mirick O'Connell, is under consideration to answer those questions, as well as whether there's adequate staffing to conduct the human resources for an employer of close to 1,200 people. Asked by Marchetti why the school committee chose Buckley Richardson & Gelinas, Cameron pointed to the firms longevity and its extensive experience in doing business and institutional investigations of employee wrongdoing. He also noted its lack of previous connection to the Pittsfield Public Schools and the School Committee. While the School Committee has pledged transparency, contracting with a law firm also affords the district attorney-client privilege meaning anything the schools share with the firm can and will be held in strict confidence unless the schools decide otherwise. The Firm agrees that consistent with its ethical obligations under applicable rules of professional conduct, documents or reports prepared for the School Committee under this Agreement are, unless otherwise indicated by the School Committee, for the confidential information of the School Committee, the agreement says. The Firm shall not disclose any of the same in whole or in part to any person whatsoever or discuss the same with any person whatsoever, other than the School Committee's authorized representatives, except when called upon to do so and when authorized by the School Committee, or as otherwise required by law or the applicable rules of professional conduct. Patrick Tutwiler is on a "Financial Road Show" to get more students to apply for financial aid for college. He said there is "a lot of money on the table" for students. But first they have to apply using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Bill Schmick is registered as an investment adviser representative of Onota Partners Inc. in the Berkshires. He can be reached at 413-347-2401, or email him at billiams1948@gmail.com. Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net. A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. We are focusing on developing 10 'Pharma Villages' to decentralise pharma production, taking manufacturing closer to rural areas December 31, 2024 | Tuesday | Interviews | By Amguth Raju With the Revanth Reddy led Telangana government completing its first year in office, Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of the Department of IT and Industries, shares his optimism about Telanganas future as a vibrant industrial hub. Particularly in life sciences and pharmaceuticals, the state has made significant strides in attracting investors. In this candid conversation, Jayesh Ranjan highlights the governments initiatives, investor-friendly policies, and plans to boost the states industrial growth further and solidify its position as a national leader in innovation and manufacturing. What key initiatives and strategic changes is the Telangana government implementing to attract investments in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, and how do these differ from previous policies like TS-iPASS? Ever since the new government led by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy took charge in November 2023, over the past year, the government has taken various measures to support the existing industries and at the same time attract new investments in pharma, life sciences and other allied industrial sectors. Telangana state has a well-established pharma and biotech base with supporting academic and research institutions under public and private sectors providing the necessary skilled manpower needed for the industries. This is the main advantage for us to pull in more domestic and global investors to the state. In the past year, we could successfully attract investments worth over Rs 36,000 crore in the life sciences sector. These investments span more than 140 projects and include contributions from both Indian companies and global organisations. This highlights Telangana's commitment to building a business-friendly and supportive environment for the life sciences industry. The government is now preparing to launch a new life sciences policy, which promises to streamline processes and simplify regulations for companies interested in starting or expanding their operations in the state. This upcoming policy will also offer special incentives to attract more investments, ensuring businesses can operate smoothly and efficiently. The new framework has been carefully designed to meet the changing needs of the life sciences industry. It builds on the successes of Telangana's earlier initiatives, such as TS-iPASS, but offers significant improvements to further boost growth. By addressing gaps and evolving alongside industry trends, Telangana aims to solidify its position as a leading hub for life sciences innovation and manufacturing. What are your insights into the recent interest from pharmaceutical and biotech companies in Telangana? Just a few days ago, leaders from Indias pharmaceutical industry expressed their strong interest in setting up new manufacturing units and research and development (R&D) laboratories in the government-proposed Greenfield Pharma clusters. These clusters are part of an initiative to boost pharmaceutical production and innovation in the state. Six leading pharmaceutical companiesMSN Laboratories, Dr. Reddys, Laurus Labs, Hetero, Aurobindo and Gland Pharmahave already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government. These companies have committed to investing Rs 5,260 crore, a significant move that is expected to create 12,500 new jobs in the region. The state governments key responsibility in this partnership is to provide suitable land equipped with the necessary infrastructure, such as roads, water supply, and power. Work is already underway to ensure these facilities are in place to accommodate the companies and help them begin operations quickly. Apart from this, other major investments are also contributing to the states progress as a pharmaceutical hub. A notable example is Rs 2,000 crore collaboration between KrKA and Laurus Labs to establish biopharmaceutical manufacturing units in Genome Valley; this partnership alone is projected to create around 2,800 jobs. Another remarkable project involves Japans Takeda Life Sciences, which has partnered with Biological E to produce 5 crore doses of dengue vaccines annually. This collaboration further emphasises the regions focus on advanced pharmaceutical production and addressing global healthcare challenges. These developments highlight Telangana's strategic vision of becoming a global hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation. The states focus on building world-class infrastructure and fostering collaborations with leading domestic and international companies ensures a thriving ecosystem for the life sciences industry. How do you assess the development of the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors in Telangana during the fiscal year 2024-25, including standout achievements and areas needing improvement? The fiscal year 2024-25 has seen remarkable growth in our pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, with significant achievements such as the establishment of state-of-the-art R&D facilities by companies like Laurus Labs. However, we also recognise areas needing improvement, particularly in enhancing infrastructure to support rapid industry expansion. To improve the skills of the youth, the government is proposing to set up a skill development university in the state. Once this becomes operational, not just pharma, life sciences and other allied industries but also industries offering IT services, manufacturing services and other services can avail skilled and talented workforce at affordable cost. Telangana will witness a new boom in industrial expansion in the coming days, offering jobs and rapid development to the region. What is the current status of key projects like Hyderabad Pharma City, including any alternative plans if it is being shelved, and how are infrastructure developments along the Outer Ring Road progressing? Though the Hyderabad Pharma City project is a cornerstone of our efforts to position Telangana as the global hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation, at present, we are focusing on developing 10 'Pharma Villages' across different districts in and beyond the Outer Ring Road (ORR) regions in Telangana. These Pharma Villages are designed to decentralise pharmaceutical production, taking manufacturing closer to rural areas and underdeveloped regions. This approach will not only improve access to healthcare services locally but will also create opportunities for balanced economic growth across the state. Combined, these initiatives have the potential to generate up to 5 lakh jobs, providing employment opportunities to a wide range of skilled and semi-skilled workers. More importantly, they will contribute significantly to regional economic development, empowering local communities and boosting the state's economy. By creating the right mix of advanced infrastructure, streamlined policies, and innovation-driven growth, we aim to set a new benchmark for pharmaceutical production in the country and attract global players to Telangana. How is Telangana fostering public-private partnerships in the pharmaceutical sector, supporting startups through initiatives like T-Hub and We-Hub, and ensuring sustainable growth concerning talent development and environmental governance? We are strongly promoting public-private partnerships in both the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors to accelerate growth and innovation. These partnerships are essential for creating a supportive environment where industries, the government, and private players can collaborate effectively. Initiatives like T-Hub and We-Hub are playing a crucial role in supporting startups. T-Hub focuses on technology-driven startups, while We-Hub empowers women entrepreneurs. These platforms provide startups with access to vital resources such as funding, infrastructure, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By offering guidance and support, they help young companies scale up and thrive in competitive markets. To address the challenge of talent shortages in the biotech and pharma industries, we are also partnering with educational institutions like NIPER, HCU, IIT Hyderabad and others through programmes like TASK (Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge). TASK is a unique initiative that bridges the gap between education and employment by equipping students with industry-relevant skills. This programme ensures that our workforce remains highly skilled, capable, and ready to meet the evolving demands of these fast-growing sectors. Together, these efforts aim to build a dynamic ecosystem where startups, industries, and skilled talent can work in harmony, driving innovation, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening Telanganas leadership in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. Amguth Raju hyderabad@mmactiv.com India needs vaccines that are Made for India December 31, 2024 | Tuesday | Interviews | By Dr Manbeena Chawla With a legacy of over 75 years in pioneering advancements with their vaccines within the Indian pharmaceutical landscape, Mumbai-based Novo Medi Sciences (Novo Group) has been instrumental in introducing many first-of-its-kind vaccines in India, playing a vital role in public health and setting standards in healthcare quality and accessibility. The company is all set to launch new vaccines in the country, further strengthening the innovation landscape for vaccine R&D. Forum Bhagat, Managing Director of Novo Medi Sciences (Novo Group) spoke to BioSpectrum about the companys present and future plans. What were the key highlights of the company in 2024? What are the major plans in store for 2025? In 2024, we continued to expand our mission, considering that we must cater to critical healthcare challenges with innovative solutions. One of our recent key achievements, guided by the principles of our founder and my grandfather, late Ramesh C Bhagat, was the reintroduction of NEXICLOX DS 250mg, a trusted Cloxacillin syrup formulation. This move addresses the dire need for effective treatments against critical infections like skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), osteomyelitis, respiratory tract infections (RTIs), and Endocarditis within the paediatric community. Initially launched in 1965, Cloxacillin is the gold-standard penicillin that was discontinued in the Indian pharmaceutical market for over 25 years. The rise of multi-drug resistance (MDR) has rendered many current combination molecules ineffective against susceptible Staphylococcus infections. Consequently, the medical fraternity emphasised the need for old is gold standard molecules like Cloxacillin, which offers a lower likelihood of resistance due to its limited use in recent years. By reintroducing NEXICLOX DS 250mg, we aim to provide healthcare professionals with a reliable and effective solution for treating critical infections in children, effective against MDR Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus Aureus (MSSA) and has a low resistance risk with a proven safety profile. We also expanded our product portfolio with the launch of NEXI D3, an advanced Vitamin D3 60,000iu syrup, in first of its kind, easy-to-use pack and CEFZINEX, a next-generation injectable antibiotic combining Ceftazidime and Avibactam. Our vaccine pipeline saw two major candidates for Meningitis and Pneumonia entering Phase 3 clinical trials, underscoring our commitment to tackling critical diseases across all age groups. Additionally, we celebrated eight years of uninterrupted availability of NEXIPOX, our varicella vaccine, which has become a cornerstone of Paediatric immunisation against the chickenpox disease in India. We extended our presence to over 45 countries on the international front, adding new markets in Europe, Africa, Latin America, and North America. Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to build on these successes by commercialising vaccines for Meningitis and Pneumonia. Furthermore, our research on the Shingles vaccine will progress with the completion of its clinical trial and commercialisation by mid-year, making it Indias first Live Shingles vaccine with 1 dose, for 40 years age group and above, providing lifetime immunity. Apart from commercialising these three vaccines, our team has worked hard by advancing to initiate clinical trials for vaccines targeting Typhoid, Cervical cancer, and Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). HFMD represents a particularly significant milestone, as it will be the first vaccine of its kind in India. We also plan to strengthen our global footprint by launching our own sales and marketing operation in nine African countries and three Latin American nations, alongside obtaining regulatory registrations in 15 additional markets. We are also expected to complete a site audit of our injectables plant by the Philippines FDA. Are there any investments or collaborations planned in the coming times? As a country, we have been very highly reliant on multinational corporations to provide vaccines for our country. However, this limits our scope for mass and affordable immunisation for critical diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya, vaccines for these diseases are yet not actively researched in India. With this in mind, we are in discussion with multiple European and Asian biotech research companies for developing niche vaccines along with the new advancement in vaccine development accessible to the Indian population. India needs vaccines that are Made for India. Are you collaborating with the government to enhance the country's healthcare delivery ecosystem? In the past decade, India has improved the supply chain, but we still lack the infrastructure to ensure cold chain maintenance for the entire nation. WHO estimates that up to 50 per cent of vaccines are wasted each year globally due to a lack of temperature control and a broken cold chain. We recognise the importance of robust infrastructure to support vaccine efficacy and reduce wastage. Our research and technical team have been working on a device which can solve the biggest issue for vaccines and products that require cold chain maintenance throughout their shelf life. Failure to store and handle vaccines properly can reduce vaccine potency, resulting in inadequate immune responses in patients and poor protection against disease. Patients can lose confidence in vaccines and their providers if they require re-vaccination, as the vaccines they received may have been compromised. This upgradation of Indias infrastructure cannot just be the governments responsibility; it must be an initiative taken by the people who have operated in such conditions and with our 77+ years of legacy, we have the experience and the technical knowledge to bridge this underlying gap effectively. An effective cold chain relies on four main elements: well-trained staff, reliable storage, temperature monitoring equipment, and accurate vaccine inventory management. What if we could do this with just one device that simplifies the entire process while requiring only renewable energy to keep it functional? To make the zero wastage dream a reality, we plan to work with the government to make this device accessible for India, enabling the cold chain products to maintain their potency thereby reducing wastage and proving to be an economic boon for the country. What are your expectations from the government? We hope the Health Ministry will keep updating the minimum threshold of Indias quality standard to ensure that only quality care is acceptable. Like how the PLI scheme has put India on the path of developing its APIs, we hope similar initiatives are taken to enable investment in making only the highest quality vaccine manufacturing plants which can cater first to the nation and then to the world. India being a vaccine manufacturing hub, how do you foresee the future of vaccine R&D in India? What are the current challenges facing vaccine R&D in the country? India has firmly established itself as a global leader in vaccine manufacturing. However, the future of vaccine R&D in the country depends on overcoming key challenges such as limited infrastructure for advanced research, dependency on imported raw materials, and barriers to scaling innovative solutions as also pointed out above. We as a nation can mass manufacture for the world the basic immunisation vaccines that are much needed for an infant. However, when it comes to tackling complex diseases, we cannot still develop our own. We believe the first step in India becoming an R&D centre for the world is to engage in strategic partnerships with the R&D centres in the developed nations and enable them to provide us with the technology for tackling critical diseases. Once we equip ourselves with the right technology at the right time, there is no stopping us. Dr Manbeena Chawla (manbeena.chawla@mmactiv.com) IIT Madras releases most detailed 3D high-resolution images of human foetal brain December 10, 2024 | Tuesday | News Leading to the development of treatment for health conditions affecting the brain Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has become the first research organisation in the world to release the most detailed 3D high-resolution images of the fetal brain. This pioneering work from the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre of IIT Madras pushes the frontiers of Brain Mapping Technology and places India in the global league of brain mapping science as this is first-of-its-kind work anywhere in the world. This Data Set, termed DHARANI, is available open source (https://brainportal.humanbrain.in/publicview/index.html), making it freely available for all researchers world-wide. For the first time globally, 5,132 brain sections have been captured digitally using cutting-edge Brain Mapping Technology developed by Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre in the Institute. This work will advance the field of Neuroscience and potentially lead to the development of treatment for health conditions affecting the brain. This monumental work is the first time such advanced human neuroscience data has been produced from India. The project was done at less than 1/10th of the costs in Western Countries. The research was undertaken by a multidisciplinary team at IIT Madras with researchers from India, Australia, US, Romania and South Africa, and medical collaborations with Chennai-based Mediscan Systems and Saveetha Medical College Hospital. This research, led by Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, Head, Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre, IIT Madras, is critical for India as the country accounts for nearly one-fifth of the worlds childbirths at 25 million each year. This makes it vital for the country to understand the brain development from the foetus to a child, to adolescence, and to a young adult, and developmental disorders like learning disabilities and autism. This work was supported by the Office of Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Kris Gopalakrishnan, IIT Madras Distinguished Alumnus and Co-Founder, Infosys, Premji Invest, Fortis Healthcare and Agilus Diagnostics. NVIDIA, the leading AI company, partnered with the Centre to help process these petabytes of brain data. The key applications of generating such high-resolution brain images are advancements to current fetal imaging technologies, for early diagnosis and treatment for developmental disorders. The Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre has created this comprehensive cell resolution atlas of the human foetal brain in the second trimester. This detailed atlas, where the researchers have identified and marked over 500 brain regions, will serve as an important global reference for advancing human neuroscience research for decades to come. Key Skills & Salary Trends in Healthcare & Pharma for 2025 |Healthcare's Tech Transformation: Reshaping Skillsets for a Digital Future December 31, 2024 | Tuesday | Views | By Munira Loliwala, VP, Strategy and Growth, TeamLease Digital Indias healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors have witnessed tremendous growth in the last decade, with cutting-edge technology being widely integrated into operations. Currently, the healthcare and pharma industries are valued at a colossal $372 billion and $50 billion, respectively. As one of the largest employers, employing around 7.5 million people, the healthcare sector is undeniably the countrys economic backbone. Amid this competitive landscape, its imperative for existing professionals and those aspiring to build a career in the healthcare/pharma industry to upskill themselves regularly. Lets delve into the skills and salary trends over the past five years in the healthcare and pharma sectors. Evolving Skillsets The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries are undergoing profound transformations, led by the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), telemedicine, automation, and data analytics. These innovations are reshaping the workforce, creating demand for roles like data scientists, AI specialists, and platform engineers. A recent report forecasts that these technological shifts will generate 2.7 to 3.5 million new jobs by 2027, even as they replace about 23 per cent of existing positions. The integration of advanced technologies requires professionals with robust digital literacy and problem-solving abilities. For instance, telemedicine platforms depend on developers and cybersecurity experts, while virtual health assistants demand proficiency in AI and natural language processing. Alongside technical skills, healthcare professionals must also refine soft skills like patient communication and cultural competence to navigate an increasingly globalised ecosystem. Salary Trends When it comes to salaries, the healthcare and pharma industries have shown steady growth in salaries over the past five years. Between 2020 and 2024, salaries for fresher roles in these sectors increased from Rs 1.7 lakh per annum to Rs 2.2 lakh per annum, while lateral roles saw stable compensation levels around Rs 9.9 lakh per annum. Technology-specific roles such as AI engineers, machine learning experts, and data scientists have witnessed higher growth in salaries, with entry-level positions starting at Rs 9.6 to 10.2 lakh per annum and senior positions commanding over Rs 24 lakh per annum. However, despite a general salary increase of 910 per cent annually, disparities remain. Factors like company size, location, and specialisation play crucial roles in determining compensation. Urban hubs like Bengaluru and Hyderabad offer higher salaries, reflecting their status as tech-driven healthcare hubs. Challenges in Talent Acquisition While technological integration is advancing at an unprecedented pace, a notable skill gap poses significant challenges for organisations. Many professionals lack hands-on experience with advanced medical technologies, and communication gaps hinder seamless interactions in global settings. According to recent studies, there is an envisioned shortage of over 2.36 lakh medical technologists and nearly two lakh surgical professionals. Bridging this gap means focused efforts from all sides. Healthcare institutions must collaborate with educational institutions to align curricula with industry needs. Furthermore, reskilling programmes targeting mid-career professionals can help fill critical gaps, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent capable of driving innovation. Upskilling Healthcare and pharma organisations are adopting multifaceted strategies to upskill their workforce. AI-driven learning platforms are personalising training modules, enabling professionals to acquire cutting-edge skills in data analytics and machine learning. Partnerships with EdTech companies like Coursera are expanding access to specialised training in areas such as robotic process automation and IoT. Today, certification programmes addressing regulatory compliance are becoming standard, equipping employees to navigate complex data privacy frameworks. Moreover, companies are investing in employee-centric initiatives like flexible work arrangements and career growth pathways to attract top talent. From Roadblocks to Opportunities Technology adoption brings both challenges and opportunities. One of the primary concerns is data security. The rise of digital health records has increased vulnerability to breaches, necessitating robust cybersecurity frameworks. Meanwhile, regulatory complexities, especially in cross-border operations, demand agility and adaptability. However, these roadblocks create ample opportunities. Enhanced data analytics capabilities empower healthcare providers to offer personalised care, while AI-driven diagnostics improve operational efficiency. Emerging technologies like quantum computing and 5G promise to revolutionise patient care, creating an interconnected Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) ecosystem. A Tech-driven Future Looking ahead, the demand for advanced technical skills is set to accelerate. Expertise in AI, genomics, telemedicine, and cybersecurity will be indispensable as the industry moves toward a digitally integrated model. With this shift, salaries for niche roles are projected to increase significantly, particularly in high-demand areas like automation and personalised medicine. As the healthcare and pharma industries continue to adopt cutting-edge technology, candidates with an interdisciplinary skill set, combining technical acumen with empathy and strategic thinking, will thrive. The emphasis will not only be on individual expertise but also collaborative problem-solving within dynamic, tech-driven teams. Healthcare and pharma are at the cusp of a tech revolution, presenting unparalleled opportunities and challenges. Addressing the skill gap, driving innovation, and creating inclusive workplaces are critical for sustaining growth. By prioritising upskilling, embracing digital transformation, and leveraging data-driven insights, these sectors are poised to redefine healthcare delivery and pave the way for a healthier, more connected future. Simply put, they are shaping the future of health and wellness, where technology and humanity meet to redefine the very essence of care. The Outlook The digital health market is expected to expand from $12.20 billion in 2023 to $25.64 billion by 2027. Medical devices and digital applications collectively contribute revenue of up to $4.9 and $5.2 billion to the overall digital health market. The setup of more medical colleges as planned in the Budget 2024-25 will boost the rise of ambitious youth in healthcare, it will also help transform the existing women workforce in healthcare as compared to any sector towards Digital health jobs and health tech segments. The aim to increase the Tech Talent from the current 1 to 2 per cent in this sector is crucial. Heavy technology investments, better investments in devices and R&D schemes are awaited from the government to advance telemedicine, virtual assistants and data analytics that are expected to create 2.7-3.5 million new technology jobs with demand for talent like data scientists and AI specialists. Budget 2024-25 was also expected to impact the overall healthcare ecosystem that not only is core to delivery but disrupted by other facets such as hygiene, sanitation, water, environment & infrastructure gap, blended funding and financing models are needed to attack the rising chronic diseases, coverage for all income groups and accessibility to all. Munira Loliwala, VP, Strategy and Growth, TeamLease Digital Starship No. 33 preparing for testing ahead of SpaceX's seventh test flight of the mega-rocket from South Texas. Courtesy SpaceX SpaceX's mega rocket Starship lifts off for a test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Eric Gay/Associated Press SpaceX Starship number 33 preparing for testing ahead of flight 7. Courtesy SpaceX SpaceX is getting ready to ring in the new year with a Starship launch from South Texas as soon as Jan. 10. CEO Elon Musk posted the date on his X social media site Monday, about two weeks after Federal Aviation Administration issued a launch license for the next test flight. Neither the commercial space company nor the FAA have confirmed the Jan. 10 date. However, details about the plan were found earlier in a notice on an international aviation website. The filing indicated a 97-minute launch window begins at 4 p.m. Jan. 10 with backups scheduled for the same time from Jan. 11 to Jan. 15. The notice has since been taken down. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Updated Starship SpaceX has been preparing the first of its second-generation Starship mega-rockets for the test flight, which will be the seventh from the companys Starbase near Boca Chica Beach. Standing at 170 feet, the updated spacecraft is slightly taller than its predecessors and has redesigned front flaps that SpaceX hopes will better withstand heating as it returns from space. The spacecraft set to launch, Starship 33 and its lower-stage Super Heavy booster 14, successfully test-fired their engines in mid-December. Static fire of Flight 7 Starship pic.twitter.com/3Xa2bYFkdp SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 15, 2024 SpaceX hasnt announced its plans for the flight thats expected to be like the previous two, with the booster stage attempting to land back at the launch tower while the upper-stage Starship continues around the world for a splashdown in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Australia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In November, a NASA email to the FAA showed its planning to support the launch with a Gulfstream V jet equipped with sensors and cameras to capture images of Starship as reenters the atmosphere, passes over the horizon and splashes down in the Indian Ocean. That email indicated a Jan. 11 launch date. The last South Texas launch was Nov. 19, when politicians and other officials including President-elect Donald Trump traveled to Brownsville to watch the launch and tour the expanding SpaceX facilities at Starbase. The booster that day was unable to attempt a landing back at the launch tower but completed a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico. The upper-stage Starship splashed down off the coast of Australia. Both parts of the spacecraft exploded after landing, their wreckage drifting on the surface for hours. Busy January In addition to a launch and deliberations over the companys request to Cameron County to incorporate Starbase into a city, the FAA is hosting public meetings to discuss SpaceXs proposal to launch and land as many as 25 Starships and boosters a year from South Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The meetings are scheduled for: 1-3 p.m. and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 7 at Texas Southmost College in the Jacob Brown Auditorium, 600 International Blvd. in Brownsville 1-3 p.m. and 5:307:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Port Isabel Event & Cultural Center in the Queen Isabella Room, 309 E. Railroad Ave. in Port Isabel And virtually Jan. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Registration is required. SpaceX didnt respond for comment about Starships next test flight, but the company usually posts more details about upcoming launches in the days leading up to blastoff. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris at the age of 98. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside, following decades of seeking justice for his 39-year-old daughter. Advertisement The beaten body of Ms Toscan du Plantier was found on an isolated pathway near her holiday home at Toormore near Schull, Co Cork, two days before Christmas in 1996. Her elderly parents, Georges and Marguerite Bouniol, often made an annual visit from Paris where they lived to west Cork to mark the anniversary of her murder. They usually travelled to attend an anniversary mass for their daughter with their son Bertrand and Sophies son Pierre-Louis. Mr Bouniols death comes days after the 28th anniversary of his daughters murder. Advertisement Ian Bailey outside the High Court, Dublin (PA) The main suspect in her murder, Ian Bailey, died in Cork in January earlier this year aged 66. The British journalist was questioned twice by gardai investigating her death, but was never charged for the murder. Mr Bailey has long denied any involvement in her death. Mr Bailey, who lived at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of murder in his absence by a French court in May 2019. The three-judge court imposed a 25-year sentence. Advertisement In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite him for the murder. In September this year, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that a cold case review into her murder should be completed before any decision on an inquiry was made. The Tanaiste Micheal Martin had also criticised the legal systems handling of the case, saying Ireland failed to find and convict a murderer. Tuesday's front pages focus on a range of stories from public hospitals making almost 390 million from private patients last year to gardai introducing more unmarked secret vehicles to catch rogue drivers on Irish roads. The Irish Times reports public and voluntary hospitals made almost 390 million from private patients last year, new figures show. The Irish Examiner report gardai are to introduce more unmarked secret vehicles to catch rogue drivers on Irish roads, and up to 100 more static speed cameras. Advertisement The Echo focus on a rise in anti social social behaviour in Cork with buses being pelted with eggs, bottles, stones and even a bike. For all the big news, pick up Tuesday's Irish Daily Mail pic.twitter.com/SVIUIV0J9r The Irish Daily Mail (@irishdailymail) December 30, 2024 Today's front page of The Irish Sun. pic.twitter.com/OFwIOjUxe2 The Irish Sun (@IrishSunOnline) December 31, 2024 Good morning readers. Here is the front page of today's Belfast Telegraph.https://t.co/J2F7mgopyK pic.twitter.com/JweUhslXVy Belfast Telegraph (@BelTel) December 31, 2024 In the UK, the New Year Honours feature heavily on the last newspaper front pages of the year. The Daily Mirror concentrates on the knighthood of former England manager Gareth Southgate, while The Daily Telegraph says London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been knighted despite rising crime rates in the capital. The Daily Mail says his honour is a reward for failure. The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph: 'PM knights Khan in 'reward for failure' '#TomorrowsPapersToday Sign up for the Front Page newsletterhttps://t.co/x8AV4OoUh6 pic.twitter.com/Wv3Qgrzrri The Telegraph (@Telegraph) December 30, 2024 The i concentrates on honours for former sub-postmasters caught up in the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, but says the wait for compensation continues. Advertisement Unions are split on a plan to trade pensions for public sector pay rises, according to The Times. The Daily Express concentrates on the spectacular mistake by then prime minister Tony Blair of opening borders in 2004 as records are released, while The Independent says the Nursing and Midwifery Council failed to act on reports from NHS whistleblowers of child abuse and sexual misconduct. The Sun hears from the family of One Direction star as they hope for justice following arrests in Argentina over his death in October. A record amount taken from managed stock funds throughout the year occupies the front of the Financial Times. Advertisement And the Daily Star ends the year with research that eating eggs can stop you going bald. Berlin police said they detained a man on Tuesday who attacked and injured two people in the citys Charlottenburg neighbourhood, further jolting Germany days after a deadly Christmas market attack. Police said the attacker was a Syrian citizen with residency in Sweden. Advertisement Initial findings indicate that the suspect may have signs of mental illness and that there is not indication for a terrorist motivation, police spokeswoman Jane Berndt told The Associated Press, adding that the investigation is still ongoing. A police statement called it an attempted murder. It said the man attacked two men in a supermarket and on a footpath in front of a nearby hotel shortly before noon, allegedly stabbing them with a knife that he had stolen from the supermarket. Both were taken to a hospital, and police said one was released after outpatient treatment. Advertisement Berlin media outlets earlier reported that the man appeared to be randomly attacking. They reported that several passers-by pounced on the attacker and overpowered him until police arrived. Charlottenburg is a normally quiet district of the German capital. Germany is still reeling from the deadly Christmas market attack this month in which five people were killed and more than 200 were injured in the eastern city of Magdeburg. A Saudi doctor was arrested on murder charges. Russia has launched an aerial attack on Ukraine, striking the capital and other regions with multiple missiles and drones. Ukraines air force reported a ballistic missile threat at 3am local time (1am GMT), with at least two explosions heard in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was issued at 8am (6am GMT) followed by at least one explosion in the city. Advertisement Missile debris fell in the Darnytskyi district of the capital with no reports of casualties or damage, the local administration said. Authorities in the north-eastern Sumy region reported strikes near the city of Shostka, where the mayor, Mykola Noha, said 12 residential buildings had been damaged as well as two educational facilities. Kyiv was among the targets, officials said (AP) He said some social infrastructure objects had been destroyed, without providing detail. The air force also reported missiles and drones targeting several other regions of Ukraine. Advertisement Around half of Ukraines energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Kyivs Western allies have provided air defence systems to help Ukraine protect critical infrastructure, but Russia has sought to overwhelm its air defences with combined strikes involving large numbers of missiles and drones. Russian attacks come as uncertainty looms over the course of the nearly three-year conflict. Those who defended Azovstal and Mariupol, the Chornobyl NPP, Zmiinyi Island, and our servicemen from various frontline directions. And two civilians who were captured by the Russians in Mariupol. 189 Ukrainians are back home. 189 families are happy again. I am grateful to our pic.twitter.com/O4cya3zhZP Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) December 30, 2024 US President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office next month, has vowed to end the war casting doubt on whether vital American military support for Kyiv will continue. Advertisement On Monday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will send an additional 2.5 billion dollars (1.9 billion) in weapons to Ukraine as his administration works quickly to spend all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before Mr Trump takes office. Russia has held the initiative this year as its military has steadily rammed through Ukrainian defences in the east in a series of slow but steady offensives. Kids can celebrate New Year's with a Spanish custom, a champagne flute filled with 12 grapes, one to eat for each chime at midnight. LARRY CROWE/AP A celebrant toasts with a glass with 12 grapes as people gather at Madrid's Puerta del Sol to celebrate and eat the traditional 12 grapes in a festive rehearsal known as the "pre uvas" before the new year 2024 begins. Marcos del Mazo/LightRocket via Getty Images Guzzling champagne, partying and hugging your loved ones isnt a bad way to spend New Years Eve, but for many Hispanic American households, the end of the year brings a world of traditions and superstitions. From burning effigies to throwing a bucket of water out of the window, here are a few of the many ways some Latinos across the world like to ring in the new year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Eating 12 grapes at midnight Perhaps the most popular New Years Eve tradition in Spanish-speaking countries and for Hispanic Americans is eating 12 grapes (each symbolizing the coming 12 months) as the clock strikes midnight. This is said to bring good fortune in the year ahead. How quickly youre supposed to eat the grapes can vary by culture. (Please dont choke.) Burning anos viejos Families in Ecuador and parts of Colombia create effigies or dolls called anos viejos (old years) that sometimes represent politicians, celebrities or personal struggles from the past year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These are burned at midnight to symbolically leave behind the passing year and make space for a fresh start. Walking around with luggage Popular among Colombians, Mexicans and Venezuelans, walking around the block or the house with an empty suitcase symbolizes a wish for travel and adventure in the new year. Sometimes, observers of this tradition will pack their suitcases with items representing the kind of travels they hope for. Wearing colorful underwear According to this widespread Latin American tradition, the color of the undergarments you wear on New Years Eve is believed to influence your year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I was taught that wearing red is for love in the new year, yellow is for wealth, green is for health and white is for peace. But what a given color symbolizes can vary, so do your research! THINGS TO DO: Post Malone, Shane Gillis and 23 more big shows coming to San Antonio in 2025 Cleaning, sweeping Sweeping your home thoroughly on New Years Eve or even tossing a bucket of water out the door is said to remove negativity and bad vibes from the past year and bring good energy for the new one. Lentils Lentils, while also delicious, are considered a symbol of abundance and wealth in some Latin American countries. Some people scatter raw lentils around their home, keep them in their pockets or eat them in a New Years dish to invite prosperity. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Throwing coins People in countries like Mexico and Peru toss coins outside their doors or into the street at midnight on New Years to invite financial fortune into their lives. Variations of this tradition include carrying coins in your pockets or placing them in your shoes to ensure wealth throughout the year. Lighting candles Lighting candles in colors that represent personal wishes is common in some Latino households. Advertisement Article continues below this ad South Korean anti-corruption agency said on Tuesday a court has issued a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials said in a statement that the Seoul Western District Court issued the warrant to detain Mr Yoon over his short-lived martial law decree earlier this month. Advertisement The agency said it is investigating whether his declaration of martial law amounted to rebellion. Mr Yoons powers have been suspended since the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to impeach him on December 14. Protesters stage a rally demanding the arrest of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol outside of the Constitutional Court in Seoul (AP/Ahn Young-joon) The Constitutional Court will determine whether to dismiss Mr Yoon as president or reinstate him. He has ignored repeated requests by investigative authorities to appear for questioning and allow them to search his office. Advertisement Mr Yoon has the presidential privilege of immunity from criminal prosecution, but it does not extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. The anti-corruption agency said it has no immediate plans on how to proceed with the court-issued warrants. Many observers earlier doubted that authorities would forcefully detain him because of the potential for clashes with the presidential security service. They say the security service likely will not permit searches of Mr Yoons office, citing a law that prohibits searches on sites with state secrets without approval from those in charge of those areas. Advertisement Mr Yoons imposition of martial law lasted only six hours but triggered huge political turmoil, halting high-level diplomacy and rattling financial markets. The president sent hundreds of soldiers and police officers to the National Assembly to block a vote on his decree, but enough members managed to enter the assembly chamber to overturn it unanimously. Mr Yoon has argued his decree was a legitimate act of governance, calling it a warning to the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, which he has called a monster and anti-state forces that has used its legislative majority to impeach top officials, undermine the governments budget and which he claims sympathises with North Korea. The countrys political crisis deepened on Friday when the Democratic Party and other small opposition parties voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo as well over wrangling over his refusal to fill in three justice seats at the Constitutional Court. Observers say adding more justices could affect the courts ruling on Mr Yoons impeachment. Advertisement The deputy prime minister and finance minister, Choi Sang-mok, has become South Koreas new interim leader. French president Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he recognised that his decision to call early parliamentary elections in June had created more political instability in the country, in a rare moment of contrition. The speech caps a tumultuous 2024 for Mr Macron, who shocked the nation halfway through the year by calling early elections, a gamble that backfired when voters delivered a hung parliament with a big increase in far-right lawmakers, diluting Mr Macron's power. Advertisement "Lucidity and humility force (me) to recognise that at this stage, this decision has produced more instability than peace, and I fully own up to that," Mr Macron said in a televised address ahead of New Year's celebrations. "The dissolution caused more divisions in the Assembly than solutions for the French people," he added, in the clearest mea culpa since the elections. Mr Macron had justified his decision to call early elections in the wake of a bad score at European elections by the need to "clarify" the political situation. But he lost his workable majority and took two months to name a minority government, which eventually collapsed in December, the first time that happened in France since 1962. As a result, France failed to approve a budget for 2025 before the end-of-year deadline, and Mr Macron had to name his fourth prime minister this year, centrist veteran Francois Bayrou, in December. Advertisement Choices to make Mr Macron also opened the door to use referendums this year, without using the word, saying he would ask the French to decide on "decisive" issues, without elaborating which ones. "I want us to act with 2050 in our sights. We will have choices to make, for our economy, our democracy, our security, our children," he said. The French constitution grants powers to the president to initiate referendums. Mr Macron has also used "citizen conventions", gatherings of randomly picked citizens without any binding power, in the past to quell revolts such as the yellow vest rebellion on certain issues. Explained How the Healy-Rae brothers could play role in gove... Read More On international issues, in which he retains wide diplomatic and military powers, Mr Macron said the European Union should stop being "naive" when it comes to international trade, as the bloc faces threats of tariffs by US president-elect Donald Trump. Advertisement "We must say no to trade rules enacted by others and that we are the only ones to still comply with, say no to everything that makes us more dependent on others, without tradeoffs and without preparing the future," he said. He also mentioned war in Ukraine and the Middle East, and election manipulation in Georgia, Romania and Moldova, as proof Europe should not take its security for granted. "That's why Europe should stop delegating its security and defence to other powers," he said, urging EU partners, who often rely on the US security umbrella, to do more for their own defence. A team of US investigators including representatives from Boeing have examined the site of a plane crash that killed 179 people in South Korea. The probe into the disaster in Muan continues as authorities conduct safety inspections on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by the countrys airlines. Advertisement All but two of the 181 people aboard the Boeing 737-800 operated by South Korean budget airline Jeju Air died in Sundays crash. Most of the dead have been identified (Son Hyung-joo/Yonhap via AP) Video shows that the aircraft, without its landing gear deployed, crash-landed on its belly and overshot a runaway at South Koreas southern Muan International Airport before it slammed into a concrete barrier and burst into flames. The plane appeared to develop engine trouble, and preliminary examinations also say the pilots received a bird strike warning from the ground control centre and issued a distress signal. However, many experts say the landing gear issue was likely the main cause of the crash. The South Korean government has launched safety inspections on all the 101 Boeing 737-800s in the country. The Transport Ministry said authorities are looking at maintenance and operation records during five days of safety checks that are to run until Friday. Advertisement The ministry said that a delegation of eight US investigators one from the Federal Aviation Administration, three from National Transportation Safety Board and four from Boeing made an on-site visit to the crash site on Tuesday. Safety checks are under way (Kim Sung-min/Yonhap via AP) Kim E-bae, Jeju Airs president, told reporters that his company will add more maintenance workers and reduce flight operations by 10-15% until March as part of efforts to enhance the safety of aircraft operations. John Hansman, an aviation expert at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the crash was most likely the result of a problem with the planes hydraulic control systems. He said that would be consistent with the landing gear and wing flaps not being deployed and might indicate a control issue which would explain the rush to get on the ground. The Boeing 737-800 an earlier version of 737 than the Max is a widely used plane with a good safety record, according to Najmedin Meshkati, an engineering professor at the University of Southern California who has studied aviation safety. Advertisement He said the failure of the planes system for broadcasting location, operating its landing gear and extending the wing flaps to slow down, indicate a widespread problem that affected electrical and hydraulic systems. Mr Meshkati is confident that investigators will learn what went wrong by analysing information from the flight data and cockpit voice recorders. These are really the two pillars for accident analysis and accident reconstruction, he said. Like other aviation experts, Mr Meshkati also questioned the location of a solid wall just a few hundred feet past the end of the runway, given that planes do occasionally overshoot runways. Advertisement Having such a big concrete barrier over there was really very bad luck for this particular aeroplane, he said. South Korean officials have said they will look into whether the Muan airports localiser a concrete fence housing a set of antennas designed to guide aircraft safely during landings should have been made with lighter materials that would break more easily upon impact. The crash was the deadliest disaster in decades for South Korean aviation. A seven-day period of national mourning has been declared until January 4. Deeply saddened by news of the plane crash overnight in South Korea. My heartfelt condolences go out to the people of South Korea and Thailand, and all those that have lost loved ones. David Lammy (@DavidLammy) December 29, 2024 The Transport Ministry said authorities have identified 175 bodies and are conducting DNA tests on the remaining five. Advertisement Bereaved families said that officials told them that the bodies were so badly damaged that officials need time before returning them to relatives. On Tuesday, Park Han Shin, a representative of the families, accused the government of failing to provide freezers on time as promised and said there are worries that the bodies could decompose. The last dignities of the victims are seriously hurt. We strongly criticise authorities for failing to keep its promise, the representative said. Police are investigating three grass fires believed to be caused by illegal fireworks, following reports of hundreds of firework-related incidents overnight, as well as two teen stabbings on the coast. More than 280 firework-related incidents were reported on Tuesday, prompting police to warn revellers against lighting illegal fireworks. It comes a week after a 19-year-old was killed by a firework and a 30-year-old woman suffered serious upper body injuries in separate incidents on Christmas Day. On Tuesday, emergency services responded to a blaze in Glenroy, in the citys north, about 4.30pm, where they located remnants of fireworks. At 9pm, another grass fire broke out in a paddock in Kurunjang, in Melbournes west, with witnesses telling police that four people had set off fireworks. About an hour later, residents in Greenvale, in Melbournes north, reportedly heard fireworks before another grass fire was found there. Labor minister Jason Clare has joined campaign strategists across the political spectrum in condemning the meme cooked up by the Victorian Labor Party mocking the marriage of Peter Dutton and his wife, Kirilly, describing the Facebook post as stupid and unfair. But state secretary Steve Staikos has defended the decision to upload the post to the partys Facebook page on Monday, saying it was not designed to attack Duttons wife but to be a meme. This argument did not wash with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who on Monday evening ordered the state branch to take down the post, which used a 2019 front-page photo of the couple with the caption, Justifying dating your new partner to your friends who dont like him. A five-year-old newspaper story about Kirilly and Peter Dutton has been used in a Labor attack ad. Credit: Facebook The controversial post creates a headache for Albanese, as the party machines social media strategy is trialled ahead of the federal election that must be held in the next few months. Elon Musk plays many roles with President-elect Donald Trump. He is Trumps most important donor, most influential social media promoter and a key adviser on policy and personnel. For most of the time since the US election day, he has also been Trumps tenant. Elon Musk aligned himself with Trump in the closing stages of the presidential race, and it has paid off. Credit: AP Musk has been using one of the cottages available for rent on Trumps property at Mar-a-Lago, the former Marjorie Merriweather Post home in Florida that Trump converted into a members-only club and hotel in the 1990s, according to two people with knowledge of the arrangement. The cottage where he has been staying, named Banyan, is about 100 metres away from the main house, according to a person who knows the property. Staying on the grounds has helped provide Musk with easy access to Trump. Daniel and Veronica Kaprosy with their granddaughter, Italee, at the first annual Soles Walking 4 Souls event, held in San Antonio in 2023. The walk was intended to raise awareness of the dangers of fentanyl and honor overdose victims. The couple's daughter, Danica Kaprosy, died the year before after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. She was 17. Jessica Phelps Veronica Kaprosy, left, prepares to speak at a news conference on the dangers of fentanyl in 2023. Her daughter, Danica, died the year before after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. She was 17. Jessica Phelps Daniel and Veronica Kaprosy stand below a billboard on Interstate 35 in Selma memorializing their daughter, Danica. The family raised money for the advertisement to call attention to the dangers of fentanyl. Danica died at age 17 after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. Jessica Phelps Nearly eight months after the death of his daughter, Daniel Kaprosy gazes into her bedroom. Danica Kaprosy was 17 when she swallowed a pill laced with a fatal dose of fentanyl. Jessica Phelps Daniel Kaprosy with his granddaughter, Italee, at the first annual Soles Walking 4 Souls event, held in San Antonio in 2023. The walk was intended to raise awareness of the dangers of fentanyl and honor overdose victims. Kaprosy's daughter, Danica, died the year before after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. She was 17. Jessica Phelps Caroline Serrata, left, with her daughter Clair at a rally outside the State Capitol in Austin. Caroline's son, William "Stewart" Serrata, died two weeks earlier after battling addictions to various drugs for years. Jessica Phelps Caroline and Kenny Serrata give in to their emotions at a funeral service for their son, William "Stewart" Serrata, in Houston in February 2023. Jessica Phelps A friend embraces Caroline Serrata after a memorial for her son, William "Stewart" Serrata, who died of an overdose at 35. Jessica Phelps Clair Serrata lies on the ground outside the State Capitol in Austin beside a photo of her brother, William "Stewart" Serrata, who died of a drug overdose just days earlier. Clair Serrata was attending a rally with her mother, Caroline, to push for legislative changes to expand access to harm reduction measures. Jessica Phelps Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times more powerful than heroin, has fueled a surge in fatal overdoses in the San Antonio region. Here are the stories of three victims. Danica Kaprosy As a little girl, Danica Kaprosy refused to wear floaties in the pool. Instead, she taught herself how to swim. That attitude stuck with her as a teenager. She loved to dye her hair different colors and learned from YouTube tutorials how to cut it herself. She enjoyed playing volleyball with her father, Daniel, and said music soothed her soul. She played the piano and the violin. I didn't really have to teach her most things, recalled her mother, Veronica Kaprosy. She did everything on her own. Starting when she was around 13, Danica complained of insomnia. Her parents tried various remedies teas, melatonin and sought advice from a practitioner of Eastern medicine. None of it worked. Later, she complained of severe pain throughout her body, and her parents had her tested for food allergies. They learned she was allergic to chicken, eggs and gluten, among other foods. Unknown to her parents, Danica turned to prescription pills such as Xanax and Percocet. PART ONE OF THIS SERIES: Inside San Antonio's struggle with fentanyl and meth addiction On July 19, 2022, she woke up and told her parents she wasnt feeling well. She called in sick to the Mexican restaurant where she was a hostess. That night, she had dinner in bed at their home in Selma and watched an episode of the Netflix series "Atypical." Oh, Dad used to watch that show! her mother told her. Its so funny. The next morning, Veronica found Danica face-down in her bed. Her body was cold, her skin was pearly white, and her lips were purple. Veronica screamed. Her husband called 911. Together they performed CPR while they waited for paramedics to arrive. It was no use. Later, they learned that Danica had taken what appeared to be a Percocet pill around 2:20 a.m. that morning. It had been spiked with fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times more powerful than heroin. She was 17 when she died. This has shattered our lives, Veronica said. When people tell me, Gosh, I would die if one of my kids died,' I turn and tell them we did. We died. Our soul died. We live because we have to. Brooke Treanor As a little girl attending Holy Name Catholic School on the Southeast Side, Brooke Treanor bristled when a nun tried to force Catholicism on her, family members recalled. This is what I believe, Brooke told the nun. And you cant change me. Years later, when she was on the swim team at Heritage Middle School, she went before the school board and PTA to advocate for the team. She was just fearless about living life her own way, her father, Aaron Treanor, recalled. She had an incredibly good heart. She was an inspiration to us. After graduating from high school, she followed her sister Sierra to Santa Barbara, Calif., where Sierra was in college. Brooke lived in a mountaintop cabin and rode her bike to and from jobs at a coffee shop and a bike shop. Later, she lived in a treehouse on a plantation in Kauai. She returned to the mainland and explored the country by train. When she was around 25, Brooke called her mother, Ginger, and made a confession: She had begun injecting heroin with a boyfriend and was addicted. She wanted to stop. Ginger flew to Oregon, where Brooke was living, and enrolled her in two different rehab facilities. Eventually, Brooke returned to San Antonio, where her addiction worsened. She was homeless for periods of time. Ginger began volunteering with SAMMinistries, a nonprofit that helps people dealing with homelessness and addiction. Sometimes, she would see her daughter panhandling on a street corner. She was living out of dumpsters, and it was horrible, Ginger recalled. There was no talking common sense. When someone is caught in addiction, theyve got to have their drug like you have to have oxygen. Brooke moved into an apartment in Tobin Hill with a boyfriend. On the morning of Feb. 7, 2021, she drove him to work and told him she was going to stop by her parents house to discuss her treatment. She never showed up. Around 2 p.m. that afternoon, the boyfriend found Brooke lying in bed in her robe and pajamas. An autopsy determined that she had injected heroin laced with fentanyl. She was 31. She followed her heart, Ginger said. Now I understand it. If my life was going to be that short, I would have taken more chances like she did. Stewart Serrata Whether playing softball with friends or sitting on the couch with family members enjoying a beer, William Stewart Serrata had a way of putting people at ease. He was a friendly guy, Caroline Serrata said of her son, who went by his middle name. Just easy to be around, truly. So it came as a surprise when Caroline and her husband John found hypodermic needles in their son's backpack one day. The couple was helping Stewart clean his car when the needles fell out of an open pouch in the backpack. Stewart was around 28. We all looked at it in slow motion, Caroline recalled. I said, Well, I know youre not diabetic, so I know what that means. Stewart told his parents he had begun taking prescription pills including OxyContin as a student at Austin Community College eight years earlier. He later turned to heroin. The years that followed were a blur for Caroline and her husband. They enrolled their son in various detox and rehab facilities. A couple times, Stewart took Suboxone, a medication similar to methadone that eases withdrawal symptoms and helps recovering addicts stay clean. Eventually, Stewart would wean himself off the medication, and heroin would call him back. He would disappear for weeks on end. In between, there were good times. As the family prepared for a daughter's wedding in Colorado, Stewart was his charming self, skeet shooting with relatives or dancing to a live band with friends. For a few years, he lived with his parents and held down odd jobs. Caroline thought he might finally be sober. Then, on Feb. 2, 2023, police officers arrived at his parents' doorstep in Austin. Stewart had been found dead in Leander with drugs in his system. He had spent the previous few days going from place to place. At one point, he showed up at a friends house and frantically searched the cabinets and couch cushions. He was 35. Crystal Gonzales endured what she calls a rough childhood in San Antonio. Her father was in and out of prison for selling drugs. Her stepfather beat her mother, and his friends sexually abused Crystal. I had trauma, she says. So when an older friend asked if she wanted to try marijuana, she said yes. She was 11. Later, she graduated to alcohol and cocaine. At 15 or 16, she started snorting heroin. In her 20s, she began injecting it. She was around 30 when she decided to get sober and enrolled in a methadone treatment program in San Antonio. It saved my life, said Gonzales, now 39. It saved me. Crystal Gonzales, a recovering heroin addict, relies on methadone to stay clean. Her treatment clinic initially gave her one dose per day. Later, she was allowed to take home a two-week supply. Jessica Phelps Shes one of the lucky ones. Even as fatal drug overdoses rise to alarming levels in Bexar County, medications such as methadone considered the gold standard in opioid addiction treatment are expensive and hard to find. Texas has 31 million people and just 97 licensed opioid treatment clinics, according to the federal government's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Bexar County, with a population of 2.1 million, has nine licensed treatment clinics, and many of them are often oversubscribed. READ PART ONE OF THIS SERIES: Inside San Antonio's struggle with fentanyl and meth addiction About this story This is the second of two articles on the surge in fatal drug overdoses in Bexar County. Reporter Emilie Eaton analyzed government data and reviewed police reports, autopsies and investigative files. She also spoke to public health experts, law enforcement officials, people struggling with addiction and family members of overdose victims. Eaton and photojournalist Jessica Phelps also observed the effects of addiction on the streets of San Antonio, in the company of outreach workers and independently. Relative to population, Texans receive medication-assisted treatment at opioid treatment facilities at the 6th lowest rate in the country: 50 per 100,000 people. That's according to a 2022 survey by SAMHSA. By comparison, the U.S. rate is 139 patients per 100,000. These treatments are not very accessible, and theyre not very cheap, said Dr. Christopher Healey, a psychiatrist who oversees two opioid treatment programs at the Center for Health Care Services, a Bexar County-funded provider of services to people with mental health, addiction or developmental challenges. Patients cant find a clinic to enroll in, and if theyre able to find a clinic to enroll in, then another gap is the pure cost of the medication, Healey said. At some clinics, methadone costs as much as $500 a month, putting it out of reach for those with low-paying jobs or without health insurance. Crystal Gonzales, a recovering heroin addict, pours methadone into a cup. It saved my life. It saved me," she says. Jessica Phelps It's one of several ways Texas is behind the curve in addressing the addiction crisis, a San Antonio Express-News investigation found. Addiction treatment options for methamphetamine and other stimulants also are hard to come by, and it's illegal to possess practical supplies such as fentanyl test strips, which can be life-saving. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50 times more powerful than heroin. It can be prescribed for severe pain but increasingly is being manufactured illegally and mixed into the supply of street drugs. Its so potent even a minuscule dose can kill you. RELATED: Portraits of three fentanyl victims Public health experts say adequate funding for treatment is an uphill battle in Texas. Theres a lot of need, said Cynthia Humphrey, executive director of the Association of Substance Abuse Programs. And lawmakers want to see the cost savings on the other side of that yearly budget. They want to see, If I put this money in, Im going to save dollars here. But we need to be investing in long-term outcomes. Danni Gonzalez has been using drugs for 13 years. He started with marijuana and moved on to cocaine, pills, heroin and methamphetamine. I would do any drug that was handed to me, he says. Above, he receives packets of Narcan, a medication to counteract overdoses, at an event held by the nonprofit Corazon Ministries. Jessica Phelps 'The stigma' Buprenorphine, also known by the brand name Suboxone, is considered a promising option for opioid addiction treatment, in part because patients can take it at home. The Food and Drug Administration classifies buprenorphine as a Schedule III drug, meaning it has low to moderate potential for addiction. Methadone is on the more restrictive Schedule II because it is judged to have a high potential for abuse or addiction. Sill, buprenorphine, like methadone, is hard to come by for treatment uses especially in Texas. In the Lone Star State, 5 patients per 100,000 people receive buprenorphine through opioid treatment programs, the 8th lowest rate in the U.S., according to the 2022 SAMHSA study. The nationwide rate is more than triple that figure: 17 patients per 100,000. Public health experts say the use of buprenorphine to fight addiction has been held back by a shortage of specialty treatment programs and a hesitancy among primary care doctors to prescribe the medication. Until last year, physicians who wanted to prescribe it had to undergo eight hours of training and face random audits by the Drug Enforcement Administration to qualify for a waiver of restrictions on the drug. President Joe Biden did away with those requirements in 2023, but many primary care doctors are still wary of writing prescriptions for buprenorphine, in part because they may not have received training in addiction treatment in medical school or in residency programs. Even if a patient can obtain a prescription for buprenorphine, it can be difficult to find a pharmacy that stocks it. A 2020 study found that only 42% of pharmacies in Texas were willing and able to dispense buprenorphine. For CVS and Walgreens, the figure was only slightly better: 52%. In 2022, 1.4 prescriptions for buprenorphine were dispensed per 100,000 residents in Texas, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The national rate was 4.8. There are lots of reasons why pharmacies may not want to fill a prescription, said Katharine Neill Harris, a fellow in drug policy at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy. Some of it is the stigma of not wanting that kind of clientele at their pharmacy. Other times pharmacists will say that they are concerned because the DEA will investigate pharmacies that they think are dispensing too much buprenorphine. Nevertheless, efforts are under way to expand access to the drug. The Center for Health Care Services opened a clinic in March 2023 that focuses on buprenorphine treatment. It's one of four in Bexar County. As of September, it was serving around 14 patients, with hopes of adding more. Be Well Texas, a statewide treatment program based in San Antonio, offers telehealth visits that allow patients in rural areas to see a doctor virtually, and receive a buprenorphine prescription by mail if they're eligible. Patients are still required to do regular check-ins, submit urine samples and meet other criteria. The program also provides funding and specialty training to a network of 144 healthcare providers in hopes of making medication-assisted treatment more affordable and accessible. Its not just about handing out medications to people, which is what sometimes is said, said Jennifer Sharpe Potter, executive director of Be Well Texas. But if they are doing everything right, we dont want to make it hard for them. That could actually be harmful for them in the long run because that might encourage them to stop treatment, and thats the last thing we want. 'Complicated lives' Most overdose deaths in Bexar County stem from meth and other psychostimulants. In 2023, psychostimulants were a factor in 295 deaths in Bexar County, compared to just 18 in 2013, a 16-fold increase. Other drugs could also have contributed to some of those deaths the statewide data does not have a category for deaths caused by multiple drugs. New behavioral treatments, called contingency management, have emerged in recent years. In this type of therapy, participants are required to show proof of a particular positive behavior, such as a clean urine sample. In turn, they receive a reward not necessarily cash. Many programs offer gift cards, cell phones, tablets or other prizes. A 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended that patients who are trying to achieve abstinence pass three drug screenings a week for at least three months. Some studies show that longer is better. But even though behavioral treatment has been shown to work, access remains limited throughout the U.S., in part because many medical professionals are not yet trained in this kind of therapy and because of ideological objections. In Texas, as of 2022, there were 44 treatment programs that regularly utilized contingency management for treatment of addiction to non-opioids, according to the SAMHSA survey. Programs such as Be Well offer the treatment for free to people without insurance. At private facilities, it can cost more than $2,600 for four months, according to one study. On the face of it, it seems strange to pay someone to not use drugs, Potter said. And yet, what if we encouraged people not to use drugs and they stopped? Thats really promising because it reduces all the negative ... downstream consequences to that individual, to society, to public safety. So whats wrong with it? Potter said participants in Be Well's contingency management program report using the gift cards to pay for transportation or buy diapers. The program's network of healthcare providers has offered the treatment to 2,245 patients, she said. They have complicated lives because of their substance use, Potter said. Providing them with a little bit of cushion to pull themselves up and out and be able to take care of other things in their lives so they can focus on recovery can be really powerful. Shaylene Wood, then 27, left, and spouse Lexi Arevalo, then 19, study "sobriety steps" together in April 2023 at a sober living home on San Antonio's Northeast Side. Jessica Phelps Frank Esparza, 37, plays with a cartridge in the bedroom of the home he shares with his mother on San Antonio's South Side. Esparza, a recovering heroin addict, and his mother were both struggling to stay sober. Jessica Phelps Frank Esparza takes a walk in his South Side neighborhood, visiting places where used to get high with friends. At the time, Esparza, a recovering heroin addict, had been clean for just a few weeks. Jessica Phelps Ashley Caballero with her infant daughter at Casa Mia, a recovery home for mothers struggling with addiction. Caballero was trying to find someone to watch the girl the next day so she could go to work. Caballero's other children had been taken from her by Child Protective Services. Jessica Phelps Celine Breard, 29, with her two-month-old daughter, Zora, at Casa Mia, a recovery home for mothers struggling with addiction. Jessica Phelps Celine Breard, 29, lies with her two-month-old daughter, Zora, at Casa Mia, a recovery home for mothers struggling with addiction. Jessica Phelps Danni Gonzales lies under the Hays Street Bridge in San Antonio. He had been doing drugs for 13 years. Jessica Phelps 'Get ahead of the crisis' Fentanyl and other synthetic narcotics contributed to 183 overdose deaths in Bexar County last year, compared with 14 in 2019, state health department data show. Thats a 13-fold increase. There's a simple, inexpensive way to prevent such overdoses: small paper test strips, similar to those used in instant COVID tests. People can test a drug they intend to consume by mixing a small sample with water and immersing one end of the strip in the solution. Colored lines on the strip indicate whether the mixture is positive or negative for fentanyl. The result is available within a few minutes. In states where the strips are legal, people can buy them over the counter or on the Internet. Harm reduction teams and sometimes bars and clubs often distribute them free. In Texas, the strips are illegal because they are deemed drug paraphernalia. Last year, legislators introduced more than a dozen bills to change that. One of the bills, HB 362, drew bipartisan support. Even Gov. Greg Abbott, who in the past had opposed legalizing fentanyl test strips, said he supported the idea. Ultimately, the bill died in the Senate. Dr. Baominh Vinh, a pain medicine physician in the Houston area who lobbies for policies to curb the opioid epidemic, said some legislators initially were hesitant to support fentanyl test strips out of concern that they enable recreational drug use. Our answer was no, Vinh said. The deaths from illegally manufactured fentanyl are increasing, and its even affecting high school kids. If we were able to legalize those strips, I think it would help. Public health experts encouraged legislators to consider legalizing test strips for other dangerous substances that have entered the drug supply, including xylazine, a sedative and muscle relaxant meant for large animals such as horses. In people, it slows breathing and the heart rate and causes large, infected wounds that can lead to amputations. We need to get ahead of the crisis, said Cate Graziani, co-executive director of the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance, which promotes public health policies to minimize the health consequences of drug use and other risky behavior. We dont want to be here a year from now or five years from now." JoAnne Ramirez's granddaughter, Victoria Trevino, died of fentanyl poisoning in 2021 at age 26. In her memory, Ramirez planted in her backyard a clipping from a tree she and her granddaughter rescued. Sitting beside it makes Ramirez feel closer to Victoria. Jessica Phelps Noah Rodriguez, 15, of Buda, overdosed on fentanyl in 2022 amid a string of such deaths in Hays County. Above, Angel Benitez, right, prays with Noahs friend, Joseph Tinoco, center, at a memorial for the teenager. Jessica Phelps Daniel and Veronica Kaprosy, center, of Selma, are surrounded by friends at a memorial for their daughter, Danica, 17, who died in 2022 after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. Jessica Phelps Veronica Kaprosy applies her daughter Danicas makeup. Danica died of fentanyl poisoning at age 17. Kaprosy often sits at the dressing table in her daughter's room to feel closer to her. Jessica Phelps Erica Arevalo waits to light a candle in honor of her daughter, Victoria Trevino, on the third anniversary of her death from fentanyl poisoning. Jessica Phelps Tisha and Jacob Endsley of New Braunfels, bottom left, participate in a "die-in" at the State Capitol in Austin to advocate for legislation to reduce fatal drug overdoses. The photos are of their son Connor, 23, who died of fentanyl poisoning in 2021. Jessica Phelps Victoria Trevino did not have a phone to call for help when she realized she was overdosing. In a final journal entry, she wrote, So I basically died today. I accidentally overdosed. Jessica Phelps A really good thing Crystal Gonzales had beaten her heroin habit once before. Then she was the victim of a home invasion. She said it caused severe post-traumatic stress disorder, and she relapsed. This time, she didnt snort heroin. She went straight to injecting it. Her husband, also a recovering addict, reached out to a counselor he knew at the Center for Health Care Services to see if Gonzales could get into the agency's methadone clinic. She had to go to counseling and submit to routine drug screenings, among other requirements. At first, she had to go downtown to the clinic every day to get her dose, but after a while she was allowed to take home a weeks supply and later two weeks. Gonzales said she initially paid $11 a day for methadone. Later, because of changes in government funding, her payments dropped to zero. Left, Crystal Gonzales picks up her supply of methadone from a clinic in downtown San Antonio. Right, Gonzales laughs with her husband, also a recovering addict, in their small West Side home. They met while in treatment. Top, Crystal Gonzales picks up her supply of methadone from a clinic in downtown San Antonio. Bottom, Gonzales laughs with her husband, also a recovering addict, in their small West Side home. They met while in treatment. Some patients stay on methadone for life. Others are able to wean themselves off. Gonzales hopes to be in the latter group. She has been on the medication for eight years now and has been tapering her dose. Healey, the psychiatrist and addiction treatment specialist, said some people mistakenly look down on medications such as methadone. By Rebecca Black, PA The introduction of water rates in Northern Ireland could be the key to addressing crumbling waste water infrastructure and the impact on waterways, it has been suggested. It comes as the Stormont Executive works to halt an environmental crisis at Lough Neagh where noxious blooms of blue-green algae have covered the surface of the water across the past two summers. The lough is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the UK and Ireland, supplies 40 per cent of Northern Irelands drinking water and sustains a major eel-fishing industry. But it is facing a perfect storm of a crisis caused by pollution, nutrients, climate change and invasive species, according to Gerry Darby, manager of the Lough Neagh Partnership. He praised the approach and actions taken so far by Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir but warned of wider problems that need a whole-of-Executive approach. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Darby said the Lough Neagh Action Plan, and particularly the setting up of a stakeholder forum led by Mr Muir, was very positive and a first for a minister. Blue-green algae on Lough Neagh in July 2024 (Niall Carson/PA) He said 10 of the actions have already been implemented, including water inspectors and looking to the private sector for innovation, but it will take decades to start to see improvement. Is the nutrient level going to come down immediately, no its not, is the level of phosphorus going to come down, probably not, but at least you can now begin to look at setting targets, Mr Darby said. Its important to remember its not just farmers, there are a lot of nutrients coming in off the waste management processing units within NI Water and septic tanks were all contributing to it and other factors such as topography, there is only one river out of the lough, there is not great flow to flush it out. Gerry Darby, manager of the Lough Neagh Partnership, speaks to the PA news agency at the Lock Keepers Cottage in Toome, Co Antrim (Rebecca Black/PA) There is also climate change as well as invasive species in there. It all came together to create a perfect storm and at least the minister has engaged with many organisations to try and find solutions. It will be a long-term solution, nobody has ever suggested that the reduction of nutrients in Lough Neagh is going to happen overnight, it is estimated that it will take somewhere between 10 to 20 years before were beginning to see change. However Mr Darby said part of the problem is that people assume the blue-green algae is the only problem in the lough, pointing out the absence of a navigation authority as well as the waste water system which was described by the head of NI Water as being at breaking point. He said addressing the waste water system will require the hard choice between trying to secure more money from the London government, rejigging the already strained Stormont budget or considering charging water rates. While non-domestic water charges already apply in Northern Ireland, there has been strong political opposition to introducing domestic water charges. The other elephant in the room is the money needed for infrastructure for waste water management. This year the budget of NI Water for capital investment has been cut in half. That is a big, serious issue that politicians need to find an answer to, Mr Darby said. Blue-green algae on the River Bann where it meets Lough Neagh near the village of Toome, Co Antrim (Niall Carson/PA) There are three choices you ask Westminster to cough up more, Stormont reprioritises budgets, or else the big controversial one is that you introduce water rates, which is pretty standard in the rest of the UK. I couldnt comment on that personally but I think it is something that needs to be given serious consideration to in the context of the issues also facing Belfast Lough. The problem of course is that it is political dynamite. Advertisement The USG Supramax freight market started the month with negative corrections. The market picture looked depressing from the owners point of view. Fresh enquiries were limited: there were barely any fronthaul (FH) cargoes and a pretty limited number of cargo offers on transatlantic (TA) routes. Nevertheless, closer to the second half of the month, the market found some support thanks to increased volumes of petcoke cargoes. Therefore, there were quite a few petcoke offers in USG for shipments on TA and FH routes, while grain and coal requirements appeared on the US East Coast. Supramax freight rates for petcoke from Houston, USA, March 2019-December 2024 Freight rates for Houston-ARA transportation of a Supramax-lot of petcoke with spot laycans are at US$19.50/t on average. Meanwhile, deals for delivery of 50,000t of petcoke from Houston to Iskenderun with spot laycans are discussed at around US $23.50/t on average. Shipping costs for delivery of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from USG to EC India are at US$42/t on average. Looking forward, the market is expected to start showing higher fixing activity levels as charterers and owners are eager to fix before the holiday lull begins in full force. There are some fresh grains and petcoke orders on TA, FHl and InterCaribs routes, which will provide solid support to the market throughout the rest of 2024. by Brannvoll ApS, Denmark Christopher Joshua Perry, 25, was sentenced to prison for attempted capital murder of a police officer. Bexar County Sheriff's Office A man who stabbed a San Antonio police officer in the neck while the officer was trying to break up an argument was sentenced to prison. Christopher Joshua Perry, 25, was sentenced to 35 years in prison by Judge Velia Meza on Monday. Perry plead no contest to attempted capital murder of a police officer as part of a plea that waived a separate charge of aggravated assault of a public servant. On July 14, 2022, a police officer was dispatched to a residence for an assault report. The officer was asked to help Perrys girlfriend gather her belongings and leave without causing a disturbance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At some point, Perry exchanged words with his girlfriend about some of the belongings, leading the officer to place himself between the two. This led to Perry pulling out a pocket knife and stabbing the officer in the neck. The officer was able to subdue and restrain Perry until other officers arrived, despite his injuries. It is unfortunate that our officers become victims in the line of duty, District Attorney Joe Gonzales said in a statement. This officer was there to prevent any further altercations but was met with an attempt to take his life by the defendant. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The officer was taken to the hospital in stable condition. Perry also sustained minor injuries but refused treatment. The Enterprise Centers President and Chief Executive Officer Monique Kuykendoll Quarterman has resigned from her position with the organization. Sammy Lowdermilk, who has been with TEC for 10 years and currently serves as program director for Tech Goes Home, has accepted the boards request to serve as acting president and CEO until the board identifies Quarterman's replacement. A special committee of the board will conduct a nationwide search for the organizations next chief executive. The board expects to name the next president and CEO as soon as a suitable candidate is found. Tens of thousands of our neighbors have benefited from the positive work The Enterprise Center has done, and continues to do, to inform, empower, and connect our community through technology, said Board Chair Sydney Crisp. While we will miss Monique, we respect her service to our community and her decision to leave our impactful organization. My thanks go to the center, the board and its staff for their years of dedicated service and the role they have played in elevating this region, said Ms. Kuykendoll Quarterman. I am humbled by the boards confidence in me to lead The Enterprise Center. The team here at The Enterprise Center does incredible work, and were excited to continue that work ahead in the New Year, said Mr. Lowdermilk. Our current mayor is busy endorsing presidential candidates while Chattanooga crumbles. According to WalletHub's 2023 City Rankings, Chattanooga ranks as the second-worst-run city in America and 146th in safety out of 149 cities. My wife and I have been together for over 30 years, building our life in Chattanooga, watching our son pursue his engineering degree. For three decades, I've worked as an architectural and engineering consultant. Growing up at Tyner High School taught me the value of both traditional and technical education. My consulting work in Colorado created school safety legislation now saving lives across America. The contrast in leadership couldn't be clearer. While Mayor Kelly was busy planning park dreams, Senator Marsha Blackburn and Governor Bill Lee were fighting to protect Tennessee from secret migrant flights into Chattanooga's Wilson Air Center in May 2021. When WRCB Channel 3 exposed these midnight operations, Kelly remained silent. When Senator Blackburn declared "Biden has made every state a border state," Kelly was silent. When Governor Lee demanded answers about unaccompanied minors being transported through our city under cover of darkness, Kelly was silent. Recent polls show 55 percent of Americans support decreased immigration, and 53 percent support deportation of those here illegally (Gallup/Reuters, 2024). Yet while our emergency services strain, local hospitals report millions in uncompensated care, and our schools struggle with overcrowding, Kelly focuses on endorsing presidential candidates. Reports from the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, Chattanooga Rescue Mission, reveal a stark truth: approximately 60 percent of individuals are exploiting our homeless services, while the truly needy 40 percent - our veterans, mentally ill, and local residents who've fallen on hard times - struggle to access limited resources. The Hamilton County Homeless Coalition data confirms this trend. While Kelly's "build it and they will come" approach attracts more people from out of town, our own citizens can't access the help they need. Our plan will implement a verified residency program prioritizing help for local residents and veterans, while connecting out-of-town individuals with resources in their home communities. Major manufacturers and small businesses tell us the same thing: they want to invest in Chattanooga, but they need a city government that works with them, not against them. Our strategic location, with three interstates, river access and rail systems, makes us perfect for distribution. These companies understand that a happy employee is a productive employee. They need reliable infrastructure, competitive energy rates through TVA partnerships, and a skilled workforce. Most importantly, they need a city government that understands time is money. Our "Above and Below" prosperity plan offers real solutions. Above ground, we have more than 50 trailheads within 30 minutes of downtown, generating $1.7 billion in tourism revenue. Below ground, the U.S. Geological Survey confirms our Chattanooga Black Shale contains vast natural resources. Modern manufacturing processes could create more than 2,000 jobs paying $58,240$120 thousand annually. The FBI Uniform Crime Report shows violent crime increased 40 percent since 2020. Our police officers earn 15 percent less than county deputies. This ends on day one. We'll match sheriff deputy salaries immediately. When you call the city, you'll reach a real person. Our infrastructure will be fixed properly, not patched. We'll implement same-week permitting for businesses. We'll partner with Chattanooga State for customized workforce training. From day one, this changes. Our "patch and pray" approach to infrastructure ends. We'll fix it right the first time. As your mayor, silence ends. Action begins. We'll stand with Governor Lee and Senator Blackburn in protecting our city. We'll ensure transparency about any federal immigration operations in Chattanooga. We'll support state and federal authorities in enforcing our laws. Most importantly, we'll put Chattanooga citizens first. This isn't just politicsit's personal. My wife and I have invested more than 30 years here. We've raised our family here. We've built our life here. Like you, we want our children and grandchildren to build their futures in Chattanooga. The choice is clear. Continue with a mayor who prioritizes national politics over local needs and stays silent on critical issues, or choose leadership that puts Chattanooga first. The time for talk is over. The time for action is now. Chris Long for Mayor 2025 Susan Hall, a loving mom, grandmother, sister and friend, residing in Hixson, Tennessee, went to be with her Savior in heaven on December 29, 2024, at the age of 68. Susan enjoyed studying her Bible and praying for others. She was a strong woman of God and was a passionate advocate for animals. Her pets brought much joy to her life. Sue never met a stranger, was always ready with a funny or witty comment. When Sue was around, you knew to expect the unexpected and have a good laugh. She was born in Washington DC and graduated from Lakeview Ft. Oglethorpe High School Class of '74. Susan proudly served our country for 10 years as a veteran of the United States Air Force in Spain, England and in the States. She went on to graduate from college with honors and worked in health information management for many years until her retirement. She is survived by her children, Danielle Slade, Jennifer McCullough, Bradley Marsh; grandchildren, Alexandra Slade, Eric Slade, Connor McCullough, Christian McCullough; and sisters, Dottie Lucas, Samantha (Chris) Dawson. Sue was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Aime Oric who died of childhood leukemia, her father, Arnold C. West, mother, Clara West, and brothers, Stephen West and Douglas West. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m.1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, at Lane Funeral Home and Crematory South Crest Chapel Rossville, Ga. A private burial will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude in memory of Aime Oric, or a tribute of your choice is equally welcome. All arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home and Crematory South Crest Chapel, Rossville. Why do Sheriff Garrett and his deputies remind me of the gestapo? They seem to thrive on car chases and shooting people. How many deputies are on administrative leave now because of this? Pat Hagan * * * I don't understand anyone who objects to law enforcement doing what we hire them to do. Our sheriff's deputies are sworn to enforce and protect. Criminals are not supposed to be slapped on the hand and watched driving off in the sunset after committing a crime. I know our citizens are in danger during pursuits of fleeing criminals but they are in worse danger if they are not arrested as they will keep on committing crimes until they pick a victim armed to protect themselves. Sheriff Garrett and our sworn deputies are doing a great job and I think our new CPD Chief John Chambers will do the same with our city police. The job they do is a thankless job not many want to do. We owe them all a great deal of respect and gratitude. Phil Dyar, Sr. * * * Did I miss something? There's nothing in the story about the man killed by Hamilton County sheriff deputies near a Publix store out by Hamilton Place stating a chase took place. Only that there was a traffic stop. Someone's getting another recent story about a police chase confused with this one. The story is far too vague and one sided. So the person killed had warrants? Did the deputies already know that prior to stopping the them? Was that additional info thrown out to the media to feed to the public in order to justify the killing and sway public opinion? Get their side in first? The first story out is the one that usually sticks, even when any updated info later comes out that rebukes earlier versions put out by police. Like the one where a 90+ year old Atlanta woman killed by police in 2006 was falsely accused of being a drug dealer. Years later, the original story put out about her being a drug dealer was still circulating and people continued to believe that original story. The public shouldn't be so quick to just sit back and take the police word on anything. I know from personal knowledge and experience how some are known to pad and cover up. Even creating a false report the average citizens would face criminal charges for doing. One that could have damaged a young man's military career, since his position in the military required a security clearance. Several of my family members have had military positions that required security clearance. So, I know how security clearances work. So no! I remain skeptical. Reporters used not be afraid to get from behind their desks, determined to get to the truth of a matter. We need more of a return to those once "boots on the ground" type of reporters and reportings these days. Brenda Washington * * * In my opinion, when you do not respond to an officer command and you point a gun at them, you should give your soul to Jesus. At that point the officer is protecting him or her self from being hurt or killed. Our society needs to teach more respect for our officers of the law. To all the doubters out there let someone point a loaded gun at you see what you would do. I am very thankful for all of our officers and appreciate all there efforts to keep me and my family safe. Buster Raymer * * * Mr. Hagan, I think an even better question would be as to why criminals have such a low IQ mentality to continue to engage our HCSO deputies by dangerously fleeing traffic enforcement and pulling weapons on them. Actions have consequences, and HCSO deputies are trained to react accordingly when criminals threaten them with firearms. I find it very strange that you would prefer to demonize our HCSO Sherriff and deputies by associating them with Nazis, but in no way do you put any accountability on the criminals. God bless our law enforcement agencies and first responders for their dedication to protect and serve. Chris Morgan * * * I think Mr. Hagan has a very appropriate question in asking how many deputies are on administrative leave because of their actions in killing someone? Mr. Dyar, Mr. Raymer and Mr. Morgan, these lives you so easily dismiss as "criminals" are human beings, whether you like it or not. I would imagine that most of them had families who are now dealing with a phone call from the sheriff's department telling them that a deputy has killed their family member ---- with the knowledge that that deputy has paid time off coming. I suspect that those who easily dismiss the lives of people who are killed by law enforcement would sing a different song if it were their family member whose life was taken. The policy of high-speed chases through heavy traffic - and most Chattanooga streets now have very heavy traffic - and the quick use of lethal force is not one that should be embraced. I have not been stopped by law enforcement in many years (and that stop was unjustified because the officer attempted to tell me my registration had expired which I disproved by showing him the paid receipt from the County Clerk) but I become very, very cautious and wary when I see blue lights behind me because I am never sure that my safety will not be jeopardized. Tim McDonald Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift adore Italy. Here's how Kelce used their mutual love of the country to influence Swift's 35th birthday dinner. Travis Kelce went all-out for Taylor Swifts 35th birthday. He reportedly spent nearly $200,000 on birthday gifts as they celebrated her special day in private. Additionally, he threw the pop queen a surprise party to celebrate the end of The Eras Tour in December 2024. For Swifts birthday dinner, Kelce allegedly splurged on an Italian feast to remind Swift of one of their favorite places they explored together. Heres what to know. Travis Kelces $30,000 birthday dinner for Taylor Swift allegedly served as a reminder of one of their favorite places Italy Travis Kelce loves spoiling Taylor Swift, and its no surprise that the Kansas City Chiefs tight end pulled all the stops for Swifts 35th birthday in December 2024. A source told The U.S. Sun that Kelce arranged a romantic Italian dinner for Swift. Two New York chefs traveled to Kansas City to cook up the meal that allegedly cost $30,000. Travis wanted to create a special birthday dinner for Taylor that would remind them of their great times in Italy and their love for the country, the source alleged. The meal included caviar, white alba truffles, and expensive wines. One bag of the truffles reportedly cost Kelce $3,600, and two bottles of the rare 2000 Chateau Margaux wine cost $2,100, with another bottle of Cristal Rose reportedly costing $2,950. Kelce also purchased a 1990 Tenuta San Guido bottle for $1,669 and a bottle of Dom Perignon for $2,498. In true Kelce fashion, he also bought a 1989 bottle of Tenuta San Guido for $2,370 to celebrate Swifts birth year. As for the caviar, Kelce spent $1,256 on 125 grams. Swifts birthday dinner wouldnt be complete without cake. Kelce splurged on a custom $1,000 cake of Swiss and French chocolates. The wines were fantastic, the source added. Everything contributed to a fantastic night, and they had a super time together wine tasting, being themselves, and celebrating Taylors birthday. The couple reportedly looked at a$7.4 million property in Northern Italy Taylor Swift (L) and Travis Kelce are seen in the Meatpacking District on Dec. 28, 2024 in New York City | TheStewartofNY/GC Images Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift reportedly love Italy. In May 2024, a source told The U.S. Sun that the couple was spotted looking to buy a home together in Lake Como in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. According to the source, Swift and Kelce fell in love with the beauty and atmosphere of Lake Como, with Kelce particularly mesmerized by the area. I have rarely seen him like this, the insider continued. Kelce and Swift were reportedly looking at a $3.2 million property, a $1.7 million property, and a pricey $7.4 million property. The source added that Italy served as a peaceful and romantic getaway for the couple. They like to do simple things, to relax, to spend days being by themselves and chill at home, so that location would be a perfect nest for them if one of them decides to buy a property there, they said. Travis Kelce reportedly spent nearly $175,000 on birthday gifts for Taylor Swifts 35th In addition to a fantastic $30,000 birthday dinner, Travis Kelce allegedly spent around $175,000 on gifts for Taylor Swift. Additionally, he gifted Swift 35 boxes of roses, spending nearly $20,000 on bouquets. Thirty-five years old is a very important birthday, and he wanted to make things really special for this special occasion, yet another source told The U.S. Sun. Many luxury items, and the bouquets, one for each year. As 2024 winds down, the couples fans eagerly await updates on what 2025 looks like. Fans hope an engagement is on the horizon. It seems more than likely that Kelce will continue to gift Swift expensive presents and many bouquets to come. For more on the entertainment world and exclusive interviews, follow Showbiz Cheat Sheets Instagram. Debra Proctor, at the time Cherokee Nations ONE FIRE director, is flanked by Deputy Chief Bryan Warner and Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., as she cuts a ribbon in front of the tribes domestic violence shelter in Stilwell on Dec. 20, 2022. Pexels/Emmanuel Ikwuegbu Fourteen Christians, including a 1-year-old girl and a pregnant woman, were slain in Plateau State, Nigeria, following a Christmas carol service. This incident marks the latest assault in a series of attacks against the Irigwe tribe in the north-central region of the country. The incident occurred last Sunday, approximately 22 miles from Jos, at the Evangelical Church Winning All, according to the U.S.-based persecution watchdog, International Christian Concern (ICC). The community surrounding the church is reported to be home to about 1,000 Christians. Local leader Wuna Gado stated that he had alerted military personnel at a nearby checkpoint about unusual activities but his warnings were dismissed. Following the attack that resulted in the loss of entire families, a mass burial was held for the victims, including 1-year-old Sheba Ernest and her mother, Mary Stephen. The Irigwe people, a predominantly Christian group, have faced ongoing violence and displacement by Fulani militias, with more than 2,000 Christians reported killed since 2016. According to data collected by the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa, between 2019 and 2023, over 16,000 Christians were killed in Nigeria. The data revealed a total of 55,910 fatalities from 9,970 attacks across the country, including both civilians and combatants. Among those killed, 30,880 were civilians, with Christian victims totaling 16,769, outnumbering the 6,235 Muslim fatalities, resulting in a ratio of 6.5 Christian deaths for every Muslim death. Radicalized Muslim Fulani herdsmen were identified as responsible for 55% of the Christian deaths. The report emphasized that misleading euphemisms like armed herdsmen and cattle grazers are commonly used to describe the ongoing violence, torture, and killings in rural communities, and terms such as ethnic clashes and farmer-herder clashes are also noted as seriously misleading. It also cautioned that the term bandits is frequently used to label militias responsible for mass kidnappings and the enforcement of serfdom on communities, adding that a policy of concealing the religious identity of victims distorts the reality of the situation. The Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam, an observatory partner and analyst, stated, Fulani Ethnic Militia are targeting Christian populations, while Muslims also suffer severely at their hands. Frans Vierhout, a senior analyst at the observatory, remarked, Millions of people are left undefended. For years, weve heard of calls for help being ignored, as terrorists attack vulnerable communities. Now the data tells its own story. The report concluded by urging, The Nigerian government should wake up to its responsibility of securing the lives and properties of Nigerians. Impunity has allowed targeted attacks against innocent people to continue unabatedly. Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States. | Photo Credit: Jimmy Carter's Facebook Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a devout Baptist known for his charitable work and long-time service as a Sunday school teacher, has passed away at the age of 100. Chip Carter, one of the former president's children, confirmed that his father died at home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday afternoon, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Born in 1924 in a small farming town in Georgia, Carter obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946. He was elected to the Georgia Senate in 1962 and later became the governor of Georgia in 1971. Additionally, he served as campaign chairman for the Democratic National Committee in 1974. Carter made history in 1976 as the first Southern Baptist elected president of the United States. He defeated the Republican incumbent, Gerald Ford, by 297 to 240 electoral college votes and garnered just over 2% more of the popular vote than Ford, receiving over 40 million votes compared to Ford's 39 million. According to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, significant foreign policy accomplishments of his administration included the Panama Canal treaties, the Camp David Accords, the treaty of peace between Egypt and Israel, the SALT II treaty with the Soviet Union, and the establishment of U.S. diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China. Furthermore, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. During his presidency, Carter served only one term, as a severe economic recession and international issues, such as the Iranian Revolution, contributed to a decline in his approval ratings. After leaving office, he became widely known for his charitable efforts, including decades of volunteering with Habitat for Humanity alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter. Beginning in the 1980s, Carter served as a regular Sunday school teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, continuing to oversee classes even in 2015 while battling cancer. Although Carter was a longtime Southern Baptist, he ultimately left the denomination in 2000 due to its refusal to ordain women, among other reasons. I'm familiar with the verses they have quoted about wives being subjugated to their husbands, Carter told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in an interview at the time. In my opinion, this is a distortion of the meaning of Scripture. I personally feel the Bible says all people are equal in the eyes of God. I personally feel that women should play an absolutely equal role in service of Christ in the church. In February of last year, the Carter Center, an Atlanta-based philanthropic organization, announced that, following a series of short hospital stays, Carter would spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention. Despite these challenges, Jimmy Carter persisted and made history as the first U.S. president to reach the age of 100 in October. Luther Rice College & Seminary is a Christian private nonprofit institution located in Stonecrest, Georgia. | Photo Credit: Luther Rice College & Seminary Students at a Christian college in Georgia will now be allowed to participate in a state-backed financial aid program after previously being prohibited from receiving tuition assistance if they were studying at a school or college of theology or divinity. Luther Rice College & Seminary, a Christian private nonprofit institution located near Atlanta, has been approved to participate in Georgia's State Aid programs starting in the fall of 2025. These programs include the HOPE and Zell Scholarships for undergraduates, as well as dual enrollment opportunities for high school students. In October, the college filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, seeking access to Georgia's financial aid offerings for its students. The lawsuit, supported by Alliance Defending Freedom, named members of the Georgia Student Finance Commission and Georgia Student Finance Authority as defendants. The litigation contended that Luther Rice was compelled to choose between maintaining its religious mission, degree programs, and commitment to teaching from a Christian worldview or conforming to state rules that restricted the school's faith-based identity. This endeavor was not just an opportunity to defend our religious freedom, but it was also an opportunity to demonstrate the value of a Christian education, Luther Rice President Steven Steinhilber stated in a school announcement. I commend the State and our partners at Alliance Defending Freedom for swiftly reaching a solution. I look forward to providing our Georgia residents an affordable biblically based education that is so vital for our time. The school highlighted that Georgia state officials prohibits private schools identified as a school or college of theology or divinity from participating in the state's aid programs, even if the institution otherwise meets all eligibility criteria. Because of that exclusion, no Luther Rice student can receive Georgia student aid for any undergraduate degree or course, not even for a course or degree in the school's general studies or psychology programs. And no Georgia high school students can receive dual credit at Luther Rice, states in the complaint. The complaint asserted that Georgia permits other religious schools to participate, leaving Luther Rice, which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, as the only excluded nonprofit school that is located in Georgia that otherwise qualifies for the same state financial aid. Andrea Dill, ADF Legal Counsel, previously expressed to The Christian Post her belief that it was unconstitutional for the government to deny a religious school a public benefit solely for its religious beliefs. She argued that People of faith cannot be discriminated against for choosing the school that best aligns with their beliefs. The U.S. Constitution does not prevent the state from including religious organizations in state funding programs. Dill further emphasized, To the contrary, the Constitution prohibits the state from excluding religious organizations from otherwise available public benefits solely because of their religious character or exercise. In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court held in David Carson et al. v. A. Pender Makin that Maine's state tuition assistance program could not prevent parents from applying the funds to institutions that include religious instruction. Melissa Manno is a reporter covering education for the San Antonio Express-News. She can be reached at melissa.manno@express-news.net. She graduated from Penn State University in 2022 with a bachelors degree in journalism and minors in geography and digital media trends and analytics. She is also the 2021 Hearst National Journalism Writing Champion. Home News 13 Catholic missionaries, pastoral workers killed in 2024: report More than a dozen Catholic missionaries were killed worldwide in 2024, with most deaths occurring in Africa and Latin America, according to a new report. Agenzia Fides, which describes itself as the Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies under the jurisdiction of the Vatican, published its annual report on missionaries and pastoral workers killed worldwide Monday. The report takes an expansive definition of the term missionary that extends beyond missionaries and pastoral workers to also include all Catholics who were involved in some way in pastoral works and ecclesial activities and who died violently, even if they did not die expressly in hatred of the faith. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe In 2024, a total of 13 missionaries were killed worldwide, including eight priests and five laypeople. As was the case in previous years, Africa and the Americas recorded the highest number of killings of all continents worldwide. A total of six missionaries lost their lives in Africa. Two killings took place in Burkina Faso. Layperson Francois Kabore was leading a prayer service in the village of Essakane on Feb. 25 when he fell victim to a brutal attack by jihadist terrorists who shot the men and spared the women. A total of 15 people were killed. The other attack in Burkina Faso claimed the life of Edouard Yougbare, a layperson who ministered to local Catholics, who was kidnapped and killed in April. His body was discovered with a slit throat and his hands tied behind his back, along with additional signs that he was tortured. The Rev. William Banda of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tzaneen in South Africa was one of two South African missionaries killed in 2024. On March 13, he was shot and killed by a stranger as he prepared to say mass. The Rev. Mothobi Paul Tatu, who was studying for a doctorate at the University of Johannesburg, was found shot and killed in his car on April 27. Witness reports indicate that he was killed by the perpetrators of another murder that he had witnessed. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, layperson Edmond Bahati Monja was killed outside his home on Sept. 27. Monja, who was the coordinator of the Catholic radio broadcasting service Radio Maria in Goma, was investigating religious persecution and violence at the time of his death. The sixth missionary killed in Africa, the Rev. Christophe Komla Badjougou, was shot and killed in Cameroon on Oct. 7 as part of an attempted robbery. In the Americas, five Catholic missionaries in five different countries lost their lives. In Brazil, layperson Steve Maguerith Chaves do Nascimento was shot and killed on Dec. 8 in an attempted robbery at the parish where he worked. In Colombia, the Rev. Ramon Arturo Montejo Peinado was stabbed to death and then run over by two assailants on June 4. In Honduras, layperson Juan Antonio Lopez was murdered inside his car as he attended a Eucharistic celebration on Sept. 14. He had received death threats in recent years over his environmental activism, which has included a denunciation of the pollution contaminating local rivers. In Mexico, the Rev. Marcelo Perez Perez was shot and killed on Oct. 20 as he was sitting in a car after celebrating mass. In Ecuador, the Rev. Fabian Enrique Arcos Sevilla was found dead near a landfill on Nov. 3 with obvious signs of torture four days after he went missing. The remaining two missionary deaths took place in Europe, specifically Poland and Spain. The Rev. Lech Lachowicz was attacked on Nov. 3 after a man broke into the rectory where he resided and attacked him with an axe as part of an attempted robbery. The Polish priest succumbed to his injuries six days later. In Spain, the Rev. Juan Antonio Llorente Espin was bludgeoned with a stick and glass bottle by an intruder who broke into the monastery where he lived and chanted, I am Jesus Christ! He died on Nov. 11, two days after the attack. Data compiled by Agenzia Fides has documented a total of 608 incidents where Catholic missionaries and pastoral workers have lost their lives worldwide since 2000. The reports publication comes four days after the Catholic Church celebrated the Dec. 26 Feast of St. Stephen Protomartyr, the very first martyr who lost his life due to his belief in Jesus Christ. Home News Evangelical leaders react to Jimmy Carter's death: 'An example for us all' The death of former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday at the age of 100 has sparked an outpouring of tributes from Evangelical leaders across the nation, who are remembering him not only for his political career but also for his Christian faith and dedication to serving others. Carter, the 39th president of the United States, was a Democrat known for his steadfast Evangelical beliefs both during and after his time in the White House. After leaving office in 1981, Carter returned to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he taught Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church, a role he continued into his later years. Despite political differences, some of the nations most well-known pastors acknowledged his legacy. Home News Elon Musk backs call for releasing names of lawmakers who used 'sexual slush fund' Two members of the U.S. House of Representatives, along with entrepreneur Elon Musk, are calling for the names of federal lawmakers whose offices have used tax dollars to settle claims of sexual and other types of harassment to be made public. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., published an X post last week stating that Congress has secretly paid out more than $17 million of your money to quietly settle charges of harassment (sexual and other forms) in Congressional offices. The $17 million statistic cited by Massie comes from a report released by the Office of Compliance of the U.S. Congress in 2017, at the height of the #MeToo movement defined by allegations of sexual misconduct implicating powerful men. The report noted that the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 established an account of the Office in the Treasury on the United States for the payment of awards and settlements. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe According to the data compiled in the report, a total of 272 settlements were paid between 1997 and 2017. The combined total of the settlements amounts to more than $17.2 million. The report did not disclose which office the settlements originated in. The number of settlements reached on an annual basis ranged from a low of six in 1997 and 1999 to a high of 25 in 2007. Total settlement amounts ranged from just over $39,000 in 1997 to more than $4 million in 2007. Nearly a decade has passed since the reports publication, meaning that it is likely that additional settlements have been reached since then. Dont you think we should release the names of the Representatives, Massie tweeted. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., shared Massies post and expressed support for his proposal. I want to release the congressional sexual slush fund list. Tax payers should have never had to pay for that. Along with all the other garbage they should not have to pay for. Elon Musk, the CEO of X, SpaceX and Tesla, also agreed. In a reply to Massies X post, Musk wrote, Whoa? Yeah. The discussion about making the identities of Congress members who settled sexual harassment claims in the past two decades comes as President-elect Donald Trump has tasked Musk with co-leading a newly formed Department of Government Efficiency that will operate independently from the federal government. Trump said the purpose of the Department of Government Efficiency is to pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies essential to the Save America movement and to drive out the massive waste and fraud which exists throughout our annual $6.5 Trillion Dollars of Government Spending. Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, a former presidential candidate also tapped to co-lead DOGE, elaborated on their vision for the agency in a Wall Street Journal op-ed. While the two did not explicitly identify the harassment settlements as expenditures they would put on the chopping block, Musks statement in support of making the names public and the suggestion of members of Congress that taxpayer money should no longer go to such payments raise questions about how much longer the status quo will continue. Home Opinion Let's all be more heavenly minded in 2025 The closer we get to Jesus return, the further away many Christians and churches are drifting from the Great Commission. One well-known statement epitomizes the apathy prevalent in much of our times lukewarm, watered-down Western church. The decades-old popular false notion is that someone can be so heavenly-minded that theyre no earthly good. This is the sentiment of many believers who desire to be liked by the world so much that they become virtually indistinguishable from the world they are trying to reach. They have become so earthly-minded that they are no heavenly good. Lets look at the stark difference between man-made efforts to get the world to like us versus the power of God to save and transform people (Romans 1:16). Consider how many new churches have popped up in your area recently. Most of these churches are swanky new buildings with cafes, game rooms, bookstores, and next-step areas meant to attract the local community with amenities for everyone. The new buzzword in ministry circles is relevant, and people have built ministries instructing believers on how to be more relevant as if the gospel isnt enough. The desire to be liked by the world so desperately has rendered many churches and individuals irrelevant in the world to come. This isnt a blanket statement, but the first and oftentimes only thing many Christians in America and the West boast about is how great their church is or what a dynamic speaker the pastor is rather than how awesome Jesus is. People are encouraged to connect, plug in, join something, or serve together. My question is this: What are they serving, joining, and plugging into? Ive talked to some of these involved people and genuinely wanted to know and asked them how they got saved. They seem completely clueless about eternal matters. They would say, I started going to this church last year, or I grew up around the church and wanted to reconnect. It seems like many people are finding community, not repentance and saving faith in Jesus. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Many preachers and ministries have amassed fans and attendees, not converts and disciples, to become more relevant to the world. Why do we collectively plan so diligently on how many bounce houses, backpacks, and pizzas it will take to draw a crowd? Why do we use religious-sounding platitudes instead of words like repentance, judgment, and wrath? This is done because if we face the facts, the modern watered-down Western church is ashamed of Jesus and His words (Luke 9:26). Ingratiating ourselves to the world and being liked by them has become an idol and obsession to the growing apostate church across America and abroad. Never do the disciples use gimmicks to attract crowds. They count on the power of the Spirit to see them through. The notion that they should set up a programmed affair and use Jesus as a kind of sponsor never so much as entered their heads (A.W. Tozer). We are told to be in the world, not of it, but many believers become like the world to gain their approval. This is a cover for weak and worldly peddlers of the Gospel. This is what groveling for the world to like and accept us looks like. By practicing cunning tactics, we think we can make what is patently offensive and foolish to the world acceptable to them (2 Corinthians 4:1-2). Many Christian leaders assume that changing our communities and social experiments is evangelism. Heres what one Bible teacher said on the religious platitude of helping to change the world for Christ: Many Christians never stop to ask what is really meant by such a phrase but have a vague idea that somehow, through their godly influence, Christians will make the world a better place in which to live. Such a goal, in fact, is often presented as though it were part of the Great Commission that tells us to preach the Gospel and make disciples (Dave Hunt). Numerous Christian magazines, podcasts, and conferences are focused on ways to be relevant, liked, and irresistible to the world. Some ministries charge nearly 10,000 dollars to instruct churches on attracting and engaging people. I attended a recent Christmas Eve service where large banners proclaimed, you were made for more, and the pastor told the audience that God was pleased with them. It seems like our collective efforts to win the world boil down to making people feel better about themselves and improving public perception of Christians. Jesus said that the world would hate us, but to many would-be disciples, the temporary satisfaction of being liked is more important than hearing well done, good, and faithful servant. Theres a lot of talk about doing life together, coming alongside people, and building community in churches today (1 Corinthians 4:20). Any realistic assessment of a large swath of American churches will show they are mega country clubs full of self-congratulation but sorely lacking in authentic love for fellow believers and lost souls. Carefully crafted mission statements, core values, and clever branding will never be a substitute for Holy Spirit-wrought conviction, repentance, and boldness (Zechariah 4:6, John 15:5). Can you imagine what would happen if the collective apathy and groveling for the world to like us was replaced with preaching the Gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit? Do you ever wonder what would happen if we replaced endless programs and activities with zealous evangelism empowered by the Lord and His love for lost souls? The result wouldnt be the end game of bodies in seats, as is the goal of the Church growth gurus, but would be measured by new sons and daughters in eternity for Gods glory. When we come to the place where self-promotion and agenda ends and Gods glory becomes our priority, we will witness His transforming power to save people and make them new (1 Corinthians 2:1-2). Lets collectively quit playing church and be the Church. Lets strengthen our resolve to become so heavenly minded in 2025 that our earthly good is measured by souls won, seeds planted, and the glory the Lord receives through our bold, loving witness. Howard Green leads Concerning The Times, a Bible teaching and evangelistic ministry whose primary focus is proclaiming the gospel to the lost and exhorting believers through End Time Bible prophecy. Home Opinion Have I been justified? How can I know? In order for you to be accepted by God, you must be justified. This theological term describes people who have been declared righteous in God's sight. But there is an important distinction between objective justification and subjective justification. The former occurred when Jesus willingly gave His life on the cross for everyone in the world, whereas the latter occurs when the eternal benefits of Christ's sacrificial death are applied to you personally through faith in the Redeemer. A beautiful example of objective justification is found in 2 Corinthians 5:19, where the Apostle Paul wrote, "God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them." In an objective sense, every sinner has already been justified. That is to say, Christ's death on the cross paid for the sins of everyone. The Apostle Peter described objective justification this way: "Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God" (1 Peter 3:18). John the Baptist preached objective justification when he proclaimed, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) And the Apostle John wrote, "Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world" (1 John 2:2). Paul wrote to Timothy, "Jesus gave Himself as a ransom for all men" (1 Timothy 2:6). What a beautiful description of objective justification! Paul also wrote, "Just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men" (Romans 5:18). Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe But why then isn't everyone saved? In order to answer this important question, we need to wrap our mind around subjective justification. You see, in order to be justified on a personal level, it is necessary to believe that Jesus died not only for others, but also specifically for me. Subjective justification takes place when I place my faith in the cross and in the Savior who shed His blood to pay for my sins and purchase my eternal salvation. Objective justification means that Jesus is the Savior of the world, whereas subjective justification means that Jesus is my Savior. Those who trust Christ for the forgiveness of their sins are able to use the pronoun, my. Paul wrote that God "justifies the man who has faith in Jesus" (Romans 3:26). This is subjective justification. "For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law" (Romans 3:28). Paul also wrote, "We know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So, we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified" (Galatians 2:16). In addition, "All who rely on observing the law are under a curse ... clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, 'The righteous will live by faith'" (Galatians 3:10-11). Objective justification has already taken place by Jesus on the cross. Subjective justification, on the other hand, only takes place when someone personally believes in Jesus as their Savior. Every believer is converted on the front end of his or her relationship with God, and subjective justification takes place at the moment of conversion. The Bible uses various terms to describe a converted person, such as born again, forgiven, justified, saved and redeemed. And of course, every person who is born again sincerely wants to live for Jesus Christ. This inner transformation is produced by God, (see 2 Cor. 5:17) who is also the author of faith itself. Therefore, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:2). Everyone has been justified on an objective level, but have you been justified on a subjective level? Do you personally believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior? Are you relying upon the Gospel rather than the Law to be saved and forgiven? Can you honestly say, "Jesus is my Savior." If so, then the Holy Spirit brought you to faith in Christ, (see John 3:5-8; 1 Cor. 12:3) and "God works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose" (Philippians 2:13). And so always remember this glorious fact: "Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification" (Romans 4:25). "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand" (Romans 5:1-2). Home News Evangelical pastor, family members killed after church service in Colombia A beloved Evangelical pastor and two family members were killed in northern Colombia while outside a restaurant after a church service on Sunday. A gunman on a motorcycle killed Pastor Marlon Lora of the Prince of Peace Villaparaguay Church, his wife, Yorley Rincon, and 24-year-old daughter, Angela Lora Rincon, in the municipality of Aguachica. Their 21-year-old son, Santiago Lora Rincon, was injured in the shooting. Lora and his church were part of the Missionaries Biblical Churches (IBM) denomination, in which he traveled to and oversaw nearly three dozen urban and rural churches across different regions in the country, according to the United Kingdom-based watchdog organization Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The couple's supervisor, Pastor Giovanni Bermudez, said Pastor Lora had earlier been concerned about potential threats made against another pastor. "Marlon was like many of us pastors we keep quiet about many things so that everything runs smoothly, even while we carry heavy burdens inside," Bermudez was quoted as saying. Lora and his family were also cherished by the Christian community in Aguachica, according to Pastor Divanit Alfonso Calle, president of the Association of Pastors of Aguachica. Angela worked as a communications and journalism professional for Aguachica's public utilities company and Santiago serves as a systems engineering student. The national government announced a reward of up to 50 million pesos ($11,000) for anyone with information about the slaying of the family, the Spanish newspaper El Pais reports. Mayor Greisy Roqueme of Aguachica declared a curfew on Sunday night. "We cannot allow violence to steal our hope, so I demand that the National Government, the Minister of Defense and the Public Force turn their attention to the department of Cesar, but above all to the municipality of Aguachica," Roqueme said in a video on social media, El Pais notes. The massacre also drew the response of President Gustavo Petro and Director of Religious Affairs of the Ministry of the Interior Alexander Jaimes. "We express our solidarity with the families of the victims and the religious community," Jaimes said in a statement, according to the Argentina-based online newspaper Infobae. Anna Lee Stangl, the director of advocacy for CSW, called on the Colombian government to "ensure protection for religious leaders, who remain at risk of violence and intimidation because of their role as peacemakers in their communities." "As the government continues its post-conflict negotiations with the armed groups, including the National Liberation Army (ELN), which is known to target religious leaders in areas where it operates such as the Aguachica region we urge the government to recognize victims from the religious sector within the framework of the individual peace accords," Stangl said. In October, Colombia's Ombudsman's Office reported an increase in violations of religious freedom rights by 31% between 2023 and 2024, which includes "discriminatory treatment towards churches and religious denominations, as well as death threats against religious leaders and authorities." Death threats increased by 50% between 2023 and 2024. The murder of Pastor Lora and his family continues a troubling trend of deadly violence impacting Christians in Colombia in recent months, according to CSW. In November, Ever and Gerson Garcia Velez, brothers who attended church at Valle Del Cauca, were killed by three men on their own farm. On Nov. 11, Pastor Salvador Zapateiro Mercado was killed in circumstances in Cartagena. In August, the home of a pastoral couple was set ablaze by neighbors upset with the services they would hold outside their home. Colombia ranks as the 34th worst country in the world when it comes to Christian persecution, according to Open Doors International's 2024 World Watch List. "[C]hurch leaders continue to be harassed, extorted and murdered due to the violence around control of territories between armed guerillas, drug gangs and other armed groups," Open Doors warns. "Christians in these areas who dare to speak publicly about corruption and violence face attacks for their bold witness. Similarly, church leaders who oppose criminal activities in their sermons also can be targeted." Home News Homeless man faces felony for Christmas Eve threat against Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church A 33-year-old man accused of threatening to release deadly sarin gas during a Christmas Eve service at a Houston megachurch is facing a felony charge. Houston Police Department officers were dispatched to Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church around 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve after the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Aaron Suppes, called in the threat, according to police. Suppes claimed he was planning to release sarin gas an extremely toxic chemical weapon at the church during the crowded candlelight service, police said. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The church, located off the Southwest Freeway in Houston, was packed with over 5,000 people at the time of the threat, a local CBS affiliate reported. Services continued uninterrupted as police reviewed security footage and determined there was no immediate threat. Authorities also found duffel bags that Suppes brought to the church and left near the front entrance, according to the report. A bomb squad, along with a Houston Fire Department hazmat team, thoroughly inspected the bags for any explosive devices, but no threats were identified. Police say investigators later learned that the suspect had placed another strange call earlier that same day in which Suppes reportedly told 911 dispatchers that he and his sister were being "microwaved from overseas," leading investigators to suspect Suppes' mental health was a factor. Court documents identified Suppes as unemployed and homeless for at least six months, according to WLTX. Using security cameras and information gathered from the investigation, police tracked down Suppes, who was still in the vicinity of Lakewood Church. He was arrested without incident and later transported to jail. During a court appearance on Christmas Day, Suppes was formally charged with a felony offense of making a terroristic threat. His bond was set at $15,000. While the threat was later determined to be a hoax, the incident has raised concerns about security and safety at the megachurch in light of another incident at Lakewood in February, where an armed woman wounded two people before she was killed by off-duty officers. During Sunday service on Feb. 11, a woman accompanied by a child and carrying a long rifle entered the church before she was shot and killed by off-duty police officers. The child, identified as a 7-year-old boy, was critically injured in the shooting, while a 57-year-old bystander was shot in the leg. Described as wearing a trench coat and backpack, the woman was later identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, who police say also used the male name Jeffrey Escalante but identified as female. "Our shooter is identified by a driver's license as Genesee Moreno 36 years old, Hispanic female. There are some discrepancies," HPD's Commander of Homicide Christopher Hassig said at a press conference. "We do have reports she used multiple aliases, including Jeffrey Escalante. So she has utilized both male and female names but through all of our investigation to this point, talking with individuals, interviews, documents, Houston Police Department reports, she has been identified this entire time as female." Houston Police Chief Troy Finner later announced that it was two off-duty officers a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission agent and a Houston Police Department officer who shot and killed Moreno. Two weapons were recovered from the scene, including a .22 caliber rifle, which was not used in the shooting, and an AR-15 with a "Palestine" sticker, which Moreno fired at the officers. Home News Matt Chandler's wife, Lauren, hospitalized with unknown illness Texas megachurch Pastor Matt Chandler is asking for prayers for his wife as she remains in the hospital after spending several days there with a fever and an unknown illness. In a lengthy Instagram post published Sunday, Chandler of The Village Church in Flower Mound announced that Sunday was his wife, Lauren's, third day in the hospital with "super high fever and other symptoms." He praised her as "fierce." Saying they "still can't quite figure out what's causing it all," Chandler lamented that Lauren "has been poked, prodded and scanned up and down and the fever persists." The post included an "update" indicating that Mrs. Chandler had "been moved to a new room." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "The tests have all come back negative and she's been tested on everything you guys are mentioning in the comments," he added. "The doctors are convinced it's viral and she will start turning the corner soon." Chandler highlighted positive developments, such as her "liver enzymes have stopped declining and have leveled off" and the reduction in Lauren's fever. He said "the fever has become more manageable and isn't hitting near as high and her blood pressure is normal again." "They were hoping the fever would break and we could wait out the tests that take longer for results at home. Unfortunately, the fever has been persistent. Thanks for the prayers. She is finally getting good sleep and besides a terrible headache due to the spinal tap she's feeling a smidge better!" he wrote. A second update posted Monday revealed that Lauren Chandler's "fever finally broke." Describing himself and his wife as "incredibly grateful," Chandler stressed that they were "still not sure what the original virus was/is." "They have ruled out all the scary stuff and most of the autoimmune disorders. Lauren has been battling a brutal headache from the spinal tap and her blood platelets are too low for a blood patch so they gave her some of the good stuff to take the edge off of that. Over the past 5 days she has developed double pneumonia so they have added a new antibiotic to take care of that." While detailing how his wife was "exhausted and ready to be home," Chandler indicated that she remained in the hospital as he reflected on how she has "battled so well." He concluded by expressing his desire to "be the one in the bed as opposed to watching helplessly" and called for continued prayers for her "quick healing." Lauren Chandler's hospitalization comes more than a decade after her husband experienced a brain tumor. Lauren Chandler has previously faced medical challenges in the form of miscarriages. Chandler has spent more than 20 years as the lead pastor of The Village Church and is the father of three children. He also heads the church-planting organization Acts 29. Chandler has also emerged as a critic of the Christian community's embrace of the Republican Party. In a sermon delivered a month before the 2024 presidential election, Chandler maintained that Republicans "developed a strategy in the '70s to co-opt us and make us their people." Insisting that "They know we're easily manipulated, we are easily worked into a frenzy, we can be controlled by them," he asserted that "They are not for us" and "They do not all believe what we believe." At the same time, Chandler criticized the ideology of the Democratic Party as "morally reprehensible and demonic." He made headlines in 2022 after it was revealed that he sent inappropriate, non-sexual direct messages to a woman on Instagram. Chandler ended up taking a leave of absence amid the controversy, returning to the pulpit after a hiatus that lasted three months. Home News Netanyahu to remain in hospital several days for recovery from prostate removal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent a successful prostate removal surgery and will remain in the hospital for several days to recover, his office stated Sunday evening. The Prime Minister has awakened from the anesthesia, is in good condition and is fully conscious. He has been transferred to the underground, protected recovery unit, the Prime Ministers Office said. Prime Minister Netanyahu thanks the dedicated medical team, the statement added. Leading surgeon Prof. Ofer Gofrit, director of the Urology Department at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital, said the surgery went as planned and that Netanyahu is in good condition. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Thank God, everything went smoothly. There is no suspicion of malignancy or cancer. Everything was a benign prostate that was removed, and we only hope for the best, Prof. Gofrit said in a statement from the operating room with the other surgeons by his side. Due to the ongoing war on multiple fronts, the routine arrangements of who would replace the prime minister while he was incapacitated received a special significance and considerable, partially hostile, media attention in Israel. During the two-hour surgery, embattled Justice Minister Yariv Levin acted as temporary prime minister, while Defense Minister Israel Katz was authorized to convene and head the Security Cabinet. The surgery also caused the postponement of at least one of Netanyahus court dates in his ongoing testimony as part of his corruption case. The surgery was deemed necessary after a urinary tract infection stemming from a benign enlargement of his prostate was discovered last week. On Sunday, Netanyahu continued his regular work schedule, including a weekly government meeting, before heading to the hospital in the evening for the surgery. During the government meeting, Netanyahu said the negotiations over a hostage deal were stuck once again because the Hamas terrorist organization does not want there to be a deal. The Jerusalem Post cited ministers stating, The situation is less optimistic, after recent weeks saw increasing optimism that a deal could be reached before the end of the Biden administrations term. Ministers reportedly were told that Hamas was constantly trying to change direction in the talks, and that the terror group was again demanding a complete end to the war as a precondition for an agreement. After the meeting, Netanyahu filmed a short video statement on his way to the hospital, thanking the many people who wished him a speedy recovery, and vowed to make it through. When asked by the cameraman about a book he was carrying, Netanyahu explained it was the biography of the Duke of Marlborough, who was among Britains most famous military commanders, and asked the viewers to comment whether they knew who wrote it, before wishing them a Happy Hanukkah. The biography of John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough, was written by his descendant Winston Churchill, whom Netanyahu has often referenced in his speeches. This article was originally published by All Israel News. Home News Sudanese militants attack church service; 14 injured Militants of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacked a church prayer service in Sudans Al Jazirah state on Monday, wounding 14 Christians, sources said. In the town of Al Hasaheisa, the militants mounted the assault as 177 Christians of the Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC) were praying and fasting for the end of the military strife in Sudan, said church Secretary Joseph Suliman. The militants of the Islamist RSF, which has been battling the equally Islamist Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since April 2023, stormed into the worship building and beat church members on suspicion of supporting the SAF. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Mina Joseph, 18-year-old daughter of a church elder, was among those who sustained serious injuries and were in critical condition, Suliman told Morning Star News. The RSF also destroyed tables and the chairs in the worship building in the 10 a.m. assault. The RSF, which controls the area, has prevented the church members and other Christians from leaving the area. They have attempted to flee the area several times, but they were prevented by RSF, Suliman said. The RSF has often accused civilians of supporting SAR as they attack, rape, kidnap and loot. The civil society group Al Jazirah Conference estimates RSF militants have driven all residents from 400 villages and partially emptied another 115 hamlets in the eastern part of the state alone, according to the Sudan Tribune. The RSF reportedly began retaliating against local civilians on Oct. 20 after RSF leader Abu Aqla Kikil, a native of the area, defected to the army. The commanders defection reportedly led to RSF violence that has displaced more than 500,000 people and killed hundreds of others. The RSF is also accused of demographic engineering by bringing in new residents. The conflict between the RSF and the SAF, which had shared military rule in Sudan following an October 2021 coup, has terrorized civilians in Khartoum and elsewhere, killing tens of thousands and displacing more than 12.2 million people within and beyond Sudan borders, according to the U.N. Commissioner for Human Rights (UNCHR). The SAFs Gen. Abdelfattah al-Burhan and his then-vice president, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, were in power when civilian parties in March 2023 agreed on a framework to re-establish a democratic transition the next month, but disagreements over military structure torpedoed final approval. Burhan sought to place the RSF a paramilitary outfit with roots in the Janjaweed militias that had helped former strongman Omar al-Bashir put down rebels under the regular armys control within two years, while Dagolo would accept integration within nothing fewer than 10 years. Both military leaders have Islamist backgrounds while trying to portray themselves to the international community as pro-democracy advocates of religious freedom. In Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Sudan was ranked No. 8, up from No. 10 the previous year, as attacks by non-state actors continued and religious freedom reforms at the national level were not enacted locally. Sudan had dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in six years when it first ranked No. 13 in the 2021 World Watch List. Following two years of advances in religious freedom in Sudan after the end of the Islamist dictatorship under Bashir in 2019, the specter of state-sponsored persecution returned with the military coup of Oct. 25, 2021. After Bashir was ousted from 30 years of power in April 2019, the transitional civilian-military government had managed to undo some sharia (Islamic law) provisions. It outlawed the labeling of any religious group infidels and thus effectively rescinded apostasy laws that made leaving Islam punishable by death. With the Oct. 25, 2021 coup, Christians in Sudan feared the return of the most repressive and harsh aspects of Islamic law. Abdalla Hamdok, who had led a transitional government as prime minister starting in September 2019, was detained under house arrest for nearly a month before he was released and reinstated in a tenuous power-sharing agreement in November 2021. Hamdock had been faced with rooting out longstanding corruption and an Islamist deep state from Bashirs regime the same deep state that is suspected of rooting out the transitional government in the Oct. 25, 2021 coup. The U.S. State Department in 2019 removed Sudan from the list of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) that engage in or tolerate systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom and upgraded it to a watch list. Sudan had previously been designated as a CPC from 1999 to 2018. In December 2020, the State Department removed Sudan from its Special Watch List. The Christian population of Sudan is estimated at 2 million, or 4.5 percent of the total population of more than 43 million. This article was originally published by Morning Star News. With bags in hand, travelers navigate San Antonio International Airport on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News With bags in hand, travelers navigate San Antonio International Airport on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Traveler Fabiola Da Costa weighs her bag as she checks it in at the new curbside concierge in the parking garage at San Antonio International Airport on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Passengers head to the TSA checkpoint in Terminal A at the San Antonio International Airport, Monday, Jan. 3, 2022. Jerry Lara / San Antonio Express-News Check your drivers license if you plan to fly with it this year, there needs to be a gold star at the top right corner. In Texas, that star indicates that the card is Real ID-compliant. The deadline to have a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state photo identification card is May 7, 2025. Domestic travelers 18 and older on commercial flights must meet that deadline to fly and enter some federal facilities, including military bases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Congress passed the Real ID law in 2005 after it was recommended by the 9/11 Commission, a bipartisan group that studied the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and recommended safeguards against future attacks. The new form of ID incorporates anti-counterfeiting technology and uses documentary evidence and record checks to confirm the ID holder is who they claim, according to the Associated Press. The law was supposed to go into effect in 2008, but has been delayed several times over the past 16 years. Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed the rollout as states struggled to issue new licenses. READ MORE: San Antonio loses its first nonstop to Europe as Condor Airlines pulls out At the start of 2024, only 56% of all state-issued IDs were Real ID-compliant and as of this fall, the Department of Homeland Security anticipated that only 70% of cards would be compliant by the May deadline, Forbes reported in September. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Transportation Security Administration is pushing for a phased enforcement that would keep the 2025 deadline but push back full enforcement until 2027. Turning away everyone who doesn't meet the rule in May could lead to massive delays at airports across the country. If the effort is successful, travelers will still be able to get through TSA checkpoints over those two years without Real IDs, but they will get warnings from TSA reminding them to update their cards. Texans can apply for a Real ID-compliant driver's license or ID in-person at a Texas Department of Public Safety office. Some people are eligible to renew their license online. Anyone whose cards are set to renew before the May deadline will automatically be issued a compliant ID when they renew. But travelers who don't want to get their ID renewed early can also use a passport instead of a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued ID card. Home News Tony Evans son, Jonathan, suggests his father didnt disclose sin to family Though megachurch Pastor Tony Evans of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, recently revealed he had fallen short of biblical leadership standards due to an undisclosed sin, his son, Jonathan Evans, said his father didnt disclose the sin to his family, even though his public statement suggests he had. Speaking during a Fathers Day sermon days after his father announced he was temporarily stepping away from his pulpit, Jonathan Evans, who is Oak Cliff Bible Fellowships associate pastor of the NextGen Ministry, told the congregation that his father told his family the same thing he told the church about falling short of biblical standards several years ago. Three days [before the public confession], my dad would call us [his family] and tell us the exact same thing he told you. No more. No less. And then on Monday, he said, Hey, I need you to preach Father's Day for me, Jonathan Evans said. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Pastor Tony Evans, who has led Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship for 48 years, did not provide specific details on why he was stepping away from the pulpit in a written statement earlier this month, but he made it clear he did not commit any crimes and suggested he shared his sin with his wife and children. "The foundation of our ministry has always been our commitment to the Word of God as the absolute supreme standard of truth to which we are to conform our lives. When we fall short of that standard due to sin, we are required to repent and restore our relationship with God," Evans stated. "A number of years ago, I fell short of that standard. I am, therefore, required to apply the same biblical standard of repentance and restoration to myself that I have applied to others. I have shared this with my wife, my children, and our church elders, and they have lovingly placed their arms of grace around me," he added. "While I have committed no crime, I did not use righteous judgment in my actions. In light of this, I am stepping away from my pastoral duties and am submitting to a healing and restoration process established by the elders." Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship elders did not say how long Pastor Tony Evans would be in restoration, but his son explained in his Fathers Day message, based on Psalm 46, that he expects a triumphant return of his father to his pulpit. Let me tell you, let me put it this way, my dad has been there for all of my challenges. Yes sir, he's been there for a lot of y'all challenges, whether it's counseling, whether it's preaching, radio, some of y'all YouTube, whatever medium [it] has been, he's been there, so it's an honor for me to return the favor, Jonathan Evans said. People have been asking me all week, 'how do you feel'? Let me tell you, I feel like we've already won. I feel like we're on offense, not defense. I feel like we already have victory. I feel like His word is true. I feel like He's going to finish the work that He started. I feel like, if it's not good yet, God's not done yet. I feel like all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes. I feel like just because it's a shock to you, doesn't mean it's a shock to Him, he added. I feel like we have already won. And so, I have to go not based on just the circumstances, but based on the reality of the Savior, because His Word is true. So what are we going to do? We going to play offense. We're going to go and do and be what God has called us to go and do and be. And when he returns, when my dad returns, when that time comes, we going to celebrate a victory we already knew beforehand that we had. Home News US demands answers from new Syrian govt after reports of attacks on minorities After tacitly recognizing the new Syrian government mostly led by representatives of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, the U.S. in recent days has demanded explanations following numerous reports of violent attacks on minorities in the country, the news outlet Axios reported. Over the past days, several videos widely circulating on social media purportedly graphically showed Islamist groups and former rebels mistreating and murdering minorities, particularly Alawites, who were the main population group supporting and staffing the Assad regime. According to Axios citing U.S. officials, State Department envoy Daniel Rubinstein traveled to Damascus and met temporary Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani on Sunday. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Rubinstein expressed concerns over the reports during the meeting and stressed the U.S. position that they must be halted. Al-Shibani, himself a member of HTS, reportedly replied that the new government is opposed to such violence, claiming that other militant groups were responsible. Rubinstein also asked for details on the governments plans to hold elections, after its de-facto leader Ahmad al-Sharaa (al-Jolani) said that this could take as long as four years. The broad rebel coalition that toppled the Assad regime earlier this month was spearheaded by HTS, which remains a designated terror group and itself is a coalition of several other groups, including radical Islamist organizations. Among its main allies is the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA), which also includes radical Jihadist groups. Axios cited another U.S. official saying the U.S. recognizes the new government is trying to gain control and stability in the country by dissolving all militias, including HTS, and putting the armed forces under the command of a reorganized ministry of defense and a new Syrian army. The official also cautioned that if the government failed to do so, the violence could increase and lead to a resurgence of Assadist loyalists, or even the remaining ISIS cells in the eastern desert. A spokesman in the U.S. State Department said the dialogue with HTS and the new Syrian government would continue, after being productive so far. The U.S. also canceled the $10 million bounty on al-Sharaa last week. We believe HTS should respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Syrians, including members of minority groups and women. We will be continuing to watch and see that actions match words, the spokesman told Axios. An official told Axios that the State Department is investigating the videos purportedly showing HTS or government-affiliated gunmen mistreating minorities. According to Charles Lister, an expert on Syria at the Middle East Institute, many of the videos circulating in recent days have been old footage, or show Assadist loyalists pretending to be HTS fighters in order to loot and abuse civilians. From rural Damascus, through Homs, Hama and into Tartus & Latakia, former Assad regime operatives have also launched deadly ambushes on HTS fighters triggering capture/kill raids against multiple senior regime warlords implicated in horrific crimes, he wrote on X. In the most serious incident of this kind so far, the new government said 14 of its troops were ambushed and killed in the western, Alawite-dominated part of the country. Ten others are said to have been wounded in fighting near the port of Tartus, triggering an operation in the province to restore security, stability and civil peace, according to the state news outlet SANA. The UK-based monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said that a former regime officer, Mohammed Kanjo Hassan, had been arrested together with 20 other people on Thursday. Israel, meanwhile, closely follows the actions of the new government on its eastern border. After a call with Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs Giorgos Gerapetritis, Israels Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said they discussed the situation in Syria. I underscored the need to urgently safeguard Syria's minorities, including the Kurds, Alawites and Christians. I added that the new government in Damascus was not democratically elected. But even more troubling: they are now proclaiming that elections will take place only after 4 years, Saar said. This article was originally published by All Israel News. (Photo: Getty/iStock) (CP) A beloved youth pastor in Queensland, Australia, died after a shark attack while spearfishing. The 40-year-old was bitten on the neck while in the water with his family, according to reports. Emergency services received calls this past weekend and found Luke Walford, a youth pastor from the Cathedral of Praise church in Rockhampton, Queensland, suffering "life-threatening injuries," according to The Straits Times. Police said Walford was fishing off Humpy Island in the Great Barrier Reef's Keppel Bay Islands National Park when the attack happened. A Queensland ambulance spokesperson said Walford had sustained a "significant life-threatening wound to his neck" and died at the scene. Walford had previously posted photos of himself in a wetsuit during earlier fishing trips and was believed to have been spearfishing at the time, according to community leaders. "This was a young man who loved people, who loved God," Claude Fingleton, the pastor of Cathedral of Praise, told the Australian broadcaster ABC, as noted by The Times. "He was greatly loved." A family friend said he watched the rescue helicopter fly overhead but had no idea it was for Walford. "I always say a little tribute for whoever it may be, but to find out it was Luke was a very sad day," Doug Webber told the BBC. Donna Kirkland, a Queensland State Parliament member representing Rockhampton, expressed shock over the attack and described Walford as "a family friend, not only to my own family but also countless others." In a statement shared on Facebook and quoted by News.com.au, one church member wrote: "I've had the privilege of watching Luke grow from a child to a remarkable young man. I dedicated him as a baby, and over the last 10 to 13 years, I've witnessed his incredible contributions as part of our church staff. He was truly a beloved figure, especially among our young people, children, and the entire congregation." Several people remembered the late pastor as "remarkable, selfless" and "the most generous person." Another tribute read: "This man was the most generous person I have ever met with his time to all those around him. He went out of his way to give all he had to others, literally putting any of his agendas second to the young and old, men and women alike." Police indicated Walford had been on holiday with his family. Humpy Island in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park is popular with camping enthusiasts who come for snorkeling, diving and easy access to reefs. It is part of the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef, renowned for its marine wildlife and visited by travelers each year. Australian authorities recorded more than 1,200 shark incidents across the country since 1791, with over 250 resulting in death, according to The Times. Most serious bites have been caused by white sharks, bull sharks and tiger sharks. Australia's previous fatal shark attack took place in December 2023, when a teenage boy was killed by what was believed to be a great white in South Australia, according to BBC. The Christian Post (Photo: Getty/iStock) A ban on Christmas in Scotland led to the development of Hogmanay. This is the story ... Yule Christianity spread in Scotland from the 6th century, brought by Celtic missionaries from Ireland. From the end of the 8th century paganism was re-introduced by the Norse Vikings. Among their customs was a tradition called Jol (Yule), which was celebrated over the winter solstice, when the days are shortest - around the 21 to 22 December, which is near Christmas. This period was called Yuletide. Yuletide traditions included kissing under the mistletoe and burning a Yule log. Words similar to Yule are found across the Scandinavian languages, such as "jul" in Norwegian. The Scottish Church In 1192, a Papal bull by Pope Celestine III created the "Ecclesia Scoticana", making the Scottish Church separate from the English one. The Archbishop of St Andrews was seen as the pre-eminent bishop, and St Andrew was their patron saint. By then Christmas and Yule traditions had become intertwined. Reformation There had been some Lollards in Scotland, and there had been growing disenchantment with the Papacy. When Reformation ideas came to Scotland they found fertile ground to flourish. John Knox (c1514-1572) was a Scottish minister who had lived in England, and then went to Geneva where he met Jean (John) Calvin, who strongly influenced him. In 1555, after his return to Scotland, Knox led the Scottish Protestant Reformation. Knox reformed the Kirk of Scotland to a Presbyterian structure, which is effectively a flat-managament structure ruled by elders (presbyters), rather than a hierarchical structure with bishops. Doctrine, belief and practice in Scotland therefore went in a more Calvinist direction. Ban in Scotland On August 1, 1560, the Scottish Parliament rejected Papal supremacy and established the Reformation. Religion was overhauled, and the Mass was banned including Christ's Mass known as Christmas. Celebrating Christ's Mass was now too Catholic and too religious, and the celebration of Yule too pagan, and their traditions were deemed too excessive and sinful. Of course, the celebrations did not stop overnight, but many people caught celebrating Yule were made to repent, and others were excommunicated. By 1575, there were also punishments for anyone found dancing, playing or singing carols. Hogmanay In 1599, the Scottish Parliament decided to drop the Julian calendar and adopted the reformed Gregorian Calendar, which had been introduced in Catholic Europe in 1582. In 1600, Scotland declared New Year's Day the first of January. Up to then the old New Year began on Lady Day, March 25. This brought Scotland into line with a lot of Europe, but not with England. So from the year 1600, New Year's Day in Scotland was just after Christmas on 1 January. That meant that the canny Scots moved many of the illegal Yule and Christmas traditions to the non-religious New Year instead. The ban on Christmas effectively paved the way for the Scottish emphasis on Hogmanay instead. Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last day of the old year. The origin of the word is disputed, but it is first documented from the early 1600s. Hogmanay was non-religious, had no Catholic associations, and so did not come under the Yule restrictions. In 1602, the more tolerant King James VI revoked the ban on Christmas, but by then many of the practices were dying out. From 1603, he became King James I of England, but even though England and Scotland had the same monarch, they retained separate parliaments until 1707. In 1640, the Scottish Parliament re-introduced the ban and made celebrating Yule and the Yule Vacation illegal, with the words: "the kirke within this kingdome is now purged of all superstitious observatione of dayes... thairfor the saidis estatis have dischairged and simply dischairges the foirsaid Yule vacance... and findis and declaires the samene to be extinct, voyd and of no force nor effect in tymecomeing." Ban in England Meanwhile in England, after the English Civil War, the new English Parliament, dominated by Puritan Christians, also banned Christmas (as well as Easter and Whitsun) festivities in 1647. So, for a short time Christmas was effectively banned across the whole of Great Britain. In England, this only lasted until 1660 when the Restoration saw the coronation of King Charles II, and the ban on Christmas in England and Wales was removed. However, the ban remained in Scotland, which still had its own Parliament. In Scotland, Yule was briefly reprieved in 1686 only to be abolished again in 1690. Hogmanay In Scotland, Christmas Day became low-key. While south of the border, the English celebrated Christmas, north of the border Christmas passed largely unnoticed and the Scots celebrated Hogmanay instead. For 150 years, the calendars of England and Scotland were 11 days out of sync, and New Year's Day was in different months. As Christmas festivities were winding down in England, in Scotland Christmas had come and gone without much notice, but the Hogmanay parties were getting into full swing. Meanwhile 1 January ws an ordinary day in England, because New Year's Day was on 25 March. England did not adopt the new Gregorian calendar until 1752, when 1 January became New Year's Day in England too. Christmas Returns During Queen Victoria's reign, the modern Christmas tradition such as the Christmas tree, Christmas cards and turkey dinner, started to be popularised. However, in Scotland the focus of celebrations and parties was Hogmanay, and when Christmas Day fell on a weekday it was just another day for the Scots. In Scotland, Christmas Day was a normal working day until 1958, when it was first made a public holiday, and Boxing Day only became a public holiday in Scotland in 1974. Since then, Christmas has made a bit of a comeback in Scotland, and some Hogmanay traditions have spread to England, such as singing "Auld lang syne". However, it is perhaps sobering to reflect that for 400 years the ban on Christmas effectively resulted in the creation of Hogmanay instead. (Photo: Getty/iStock) The Jewish festival of Hannukah, which this year runs from 25 December to 2 January, actually has a lot in common with the Christian Christmas. This is the story ... Hanukkah Menorah Hannukah is an annual Jewish festival which lasts eight days and is also known as the Festival of Lights, or the Feast of Dedication. During Hanukkah Jews light a nine-branched candelabra, called a Menorah, from the Hebrew word for lamp, which they often put in their window to be seen from the street. This menorah is symbolic of the seven-branched oil lamp, which was in the Temple in Jerusalem (Exodus 25:31-40). The original Temple menorah was lit daily by a priest from fresh consecrated olive oil, and was never supposed to be allowed to go out (Exodus 27:21). The Talmud forbids a seven-branched menorah from being used outside the Temple, so the tradition arose for the Hanukkah menorah to have eight branches, plus a ninth lamp in the middle which is used to light the others. History of Hanukkah The background to Hanukkah lies in the second century BC when a Greek army led by King Antiochus IV Epiphanes (who ruled 175 to 164 BC) marched into Jerusalem (2 Maccabees 5:1114). Antiochus banned Jewish worship, and attempted to force the inhabitants to worship Greek pagan gods instead. In 167 BC, he desecrated the Temple when he erected an altar in it to the pagan god Zeus (1 Maccabees 1:41-48), and let the Menorah go out. These insults triggered a Jewish revolt (1 Maccabees 1:62-64) by brothers of the priestly Hasmonean family (1 Maccabees 2). They became known as the Maccabees, thought to be derived from the Aramaic word for hammer. There was a triumphal entry into Jerusalem by Simon Maccabee who came into Jerusalem to liberate it (1 Maccabees 13:51). Following the liberation of Jerusalem, the Jewish community cleansed the Temple from pagan worship in 164 (or 165) BC, led by Judah Maccabee (Judas Maccabeus) and his brothers (1 Maccabees 4:41-51). When the temple was ready, they ceremonially lit the menorah. The legend (whether true or not) goes that there appeared to be only just enough oil to keep it burning for a single day. However, this small quantity of oil kept the candle burning for eight days, which was the amount of time it took for more oil to be made. This was considered a miracle. Hanukkah is inaugurated Then "all the assembly of Israel determined that every year at that season the days of dedication of the altar should be observed with joy and gladness for eight days, beginning with the twenty-fifth day of the month of Chislev" (1 Maccabees 4:59). Thus the Jewish Feast of Dedication was inaugurated. It is now better known as Hanukkah (also spelt Chanukah), from the Hebrew word for "dedication". The Jewish month of Chislev (also spelt Kislev), roughly equates to December. Hanukkah is a tradition for most Jewish groups around the world. Customs vary but a common custom is to light a menorah, also called a "hanukkiah", with one candle for each of the eight days of the miracle. A ninth candle in the middle is used to kindle the others. Hanukkah in the Bible Hanukkah is not mentioned in the modern form of the Jewish Bible, commonly called the Tanakh, which is based on the Masoretic Hebrew text. However, the story is told in the books of Maccabees. Key references are found in 1 Maccabees 4:36, 5259 and in 2 Maccabees 1:18 and 10:5. The books of Maccabees were included in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Jewish Bible widely used by diaspora Jews from the third century BC until the early centuries of the Christian era. The Septuagint was also the Old Testament for the Early Church, when Greek was the lingua franca. So, the books of Maccabees were effectively in the historical Bible for both Jews and Christians. These books are omitted in most modern Jewish and Protestant Bibles, although they remain in the Old Testament in Catholic and Christian Orthodox Bibles. However, Jews still reference this story in Maccabees at Hanukkah. Jesus and Hanukkah As was the custom at the time, Jesus marked Hanukkah. There is a reference in the New Testament to Jesus attending Hanukkah in John 10:22. The King James Version reads: "And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter." The New International Version (NIV) adds in a helpful footnote to explain that the Feast of Dedications is Hanukkah. A few versions, which are happy to translate the meaning of words and phrases, rather than literally translate the words themselves, have translated Feast of Dedication as Hanukkah, as it is more commonly known today. The New Living Translation (NLT) has, "It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication." The EasyEnglish version, which was translated for people who do not have English as their first language, puts it as, "It was the time for the Jewish Festival called Hanukkah. This happened in Jerusalem. It was winter." When Jesus himself made a triumphal ride into Jerusalem it echoed the liberation by the Maccabees. He followed this by cleansing the Temple, which echoed the cleansing of the Temple by the Maccabees at Hanukkah. Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights when the Temple was rededicated, and at Christmas Christians recall that Jesus called himself the light of the world (John 8:12). This analogy with Hanukkah, when the Temple was rededicated, is stronger when we recall that Jesus also referred to himself as the new Temple (John 2:1822). It was at this Hanukkah that "Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomons Colonnade. The Jews who were there gathered round him, saying, 'How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.' Jesus answered, 'I did tell you, but you do not believe..." (John 10:23-25 NIV). Early English Bible translations used to cross-reference John 10:22 to Maccabees. William Tyndale was the first to do this in his 1534 New Testament, which cross-references John 10:22 to 1 Maccabees 4. The original version of the King James Version from 1611 referenced John 10:22 to 1 Maccabees 4:59. Many modern English translations which seem squeamish about cross-referencing the Apocrypha do not add in this helpful reference, so the link is lost on most evangelical Christians. The dating of Hanukkah and Christmas The dating of Christmas has long been debated. Some people think it was to replace the longheld pagan winter solstice held in Britain. However, the first recorded references to Christmas predate Yule in Britain, and predate the arrival of St Augustine in England in the sixth century, so this theory does not make sense historically. Hanukkah falls every year on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev (also spelt Chislev), which overlaps with December, and Christmas falls on the 25th day of December. This may be one reason why early Christians adopted 25 December for Christmas. Each year Hanukkah falls around Christmas time. Some years the start of Hanukkah and Christmas fall on the same day. In 2024, the sunset of December 25 coincides with the 25th day of Kislev, the first night of Hanukkah, making Christmas Day and the beginning of Hanukkah fall on the same day. The majority of the first Christians were from a Jewish background, and Hanukkah was part of their tradition. Just as the Passover was replaced by Easter, so it seems that Hanukkah was replaced by Christmas. Candles In nineteenth-century Germany when large numbers of Ashkenazi Jews and Christians lived alongside each other, the tradition of the Hanukkah Menorah may have influenced the Christian idea of the Advent candles. Lutheran Christians instead developed the idea of lighting Advent candles. The Advent wreath with five candles has been adopted now in many churches, when they light a candle for each Sunday in Advent and one central candle for Christmas. These days some Christians will also have a Menorah candle in the window. Modern Hanukkah Until modern times Hanukkah was a fairly minor Jewish festival. However, in countries where Jews and Christians have lived among each other, Hanukkah has developed to include many customs and practices of the wider community which are common at Christmas time, and they have adapted them to Hanukkah. As a result, Jews may sing Hanukkah songs, exchange gifts, send Hanukkah cards and attend Hanukkah parties. Some Jews even have a Hanukkah bush. The Hanukkah bush will usually have a star of David on top of the tree. The many connections between Hanukkah and Christmas are more than a coincidence. UNICEF Moldova is looking for a M&E Officer, NO-B (FT) to provide professional expertise and assistance in information/data collection, statistics and data analysis, monitoring & evaluation (M&E), preparation of reports, communication and partnership, and in implementing training programmes for national and sub-national data collection, monitoring, evaluation and research capacity building with special attention to the interest, concern and participation of primary stakeholders. To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have: The following minimum requirements: Education: University degree in social sciences, development planning, planning, evaluation, survey implementation, advanced statistical research. University degree in social sciences, development planning, planning, evaluation, survey implementation, advanced statistical research. Work Experience: Two years of relevant professional work experience in programme development and implementation including monitoring and evaluation activities. Field work experience. At least one instance of exposure to emergency programming, including preparedness planning. Two years of relevant professional work experience in programme development and implementation including monitoring and evaluation activities. Field work experience. At least one instance of exposure to emergency programming, including preparedness planning. Language Requirements: Fluency in Romanian and working knowledge of English. The following desirables: Background/familiarity with Emergency situations. Knowledge of another official UN language HOW TO APPLY: To read more detailed information and apply for this position, please visit UNICEF webpage https://jobs.unicef.org/en-us/job/578201/monitoring-evaluation-officer-nob-ft-chisinau-moldova-for-moldova-nationalsresidents-only-131200 Extended application deadline: 7 January 2025 UNICEF is here to serve the worlds most disadvantaged children and our global workforce must reflect the diversity of those children. The UNICEF family is committed to include everyone, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, or any other personal characteristic. UNICEFs active commitment to diversity and inclusion is critical to deliver the best results for children. For this position, eligible and suitable candidates from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. We offer a wide range of measures to include a more diverse workforce, such as paid parental leave, time off for breastfeeding purposes, and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF strongly encourages the use of flexible working arrangements. UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. UNICEF is committed to promoting the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check. UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance. Appointments are also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be canceled. As the U.S. working population ages, more workers are becoming eligible for Medicare every year. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), there are 67.7 million Medicare beneficiaries. In 2023, there were 2.6 million work-related injuries, according to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Considering this data, it is fairly obvious that many work injuries involve Medicare beneficiaries. An injured workers Medicare status has long impacted the handlingand more specifically, the settlementof their workers compensation claim. Recent changes in CMS reporting requirements will further complicate what is already a complex process. Pursuant to CMS guidelines, Medicares interests must always be considered when settling a workers comp claim. This applies whether or not the injured worker is a Medicare beneficiary. While it is often assumed that a Medicare Set-Aside (MSA) must be submitted to CMS when the settlement involves a Medicare beneficiary or if it meets certain review thresholds if the injury worker is not yet a Medicare beneficiary, CMS review process is completely voluntary. While there are many programs that involve the preparation of nonsubmit MSAs (MSAs prepared but not submitted for CMS approval), the insurance community wants the safe and guaranteed option that only CMS can provide and generally is hesitant to participate. CMS published guidelines are clear: If it approves a submitted MSA and underestimates the amount to be set aside, the agency will eat those added costs. However, in many circumstances, the price of certainty is not worth taking. Submitting MSAs to CMS is a risky proposition for three main reasons. First, CMS takes a snapshot review approach to a claim. If an injured worker is taking two Percocet a day and going to physical therapy three times a week, CMS will assume this will continue for eternity. It refuses to consider that people might improve with time, may die if they keep taking the medication at the same frequency and dosage forever or the treatment plans may change. As one can guess, taking this snapshot approach and multiplying the current costs by the injured workers lifetime leads to substantial future costs. The second reason why submission is risky is that CMS refuses to honor and follow state law, although its guidelines say it does. For example, in Georgia, an injured workers medical treatment is capped at 400 weeks from their injury in the vast majority of cases. This is the rule, not the exception. Lifetime medical only applies if the claim is designated as catastrophic either by order or agreement of the parties. Catastrophic cases are severe, permanent injuries, which in many other states are referred to as perm total cases. Rather than simply inquiring as to whether the 400-week cap applies or not in a case, CMS requires settling parties to obtain a court order verifying that the case is not catastrophic. In other words, it makes settling parties go to a judge to simply verify that the law (medical is capped at 400 weeks) applies. It is an unnecessary step. Further, even when the parties get such an order, CMS has shown on multiple occasions the willingness to disregard said order and make its own independent judgment that a claim is catastrophic. The third reason submission to CMS is risky is that there are no official appeals. There are two options to ask CMS to take a second look at a proposed MSA: amended review and re-review. However, they are very limited in scope and do not allow for a thorough review of the contents of the approved MSA. In most circumstances, trying to appeal is fruitless. In contrast, using a nontraditional or nonsubmit MSA opens more opportunities for a challenge in the event CMS deems the set-aside amount insufficient. In most nonsubmit MSAs, the parties engage with a provider who prepares their own analysis of the future claim-related medical costs. Oftentimes, this is done with an evidence-based approach, which is intended to be more accurate and factors in a change in treatment plan over time, an option not provided by a traditional MSA. As part of the settlement, the parties agree to set aside the amount projected by the provider for future medical treatment but not to submit the proposal to CMS. If the injured worker exhausts the amount in their account, they then would submit their claims to CMS for future payment. At this point, CMS may decline to cover the care because it did not approve the MSA. The option available here, which is not available with a submitted MSA, is that the injured worker has a right to an administrative hearing to challenge the denial. Evidence can then be presented to a judge, which would support the reasonableness of the nonsubmit MSA. Many providers who prepare nonsubmit MSAs indemnify their proposals, providing a further safety net to the injured worker. In January 2022, CMS issued guidance that basically disallowed nonsubmit MSAs. The Medicare service provider community reacted forcefully to this news, and in March 2022, CMS retracted that earlier guidance. Since March 2022, nonsubmit or evidence-based MSAs have been common, although some in the industry are still hesitant to prepare them as they seek that elusive (but risky) certainty. In April 2025, CMS is going to begin requiring that all settlements involving Medicare beneficiaries be reported, regardless of the settlement amount. The agency has indicated that carriers must report data on the settlement, which includes the amount of the MSA and who prepared it. It is unknown why CMS has changed the reporting requirements, but the speculation is that it is trying to get more data on MSAs and how prevalent the nonsubmit process is, which could lead to it embracing that option or, more likely, trying (again) to end it. For this reason, the next several years will certainly be an interesting time for those handling workers compensation claims, especially those involving older workers. Stinson is a partner in the Atlanta office of Swift Currie. He has handled workers compensation claims on behalf of employers and insurers for more than 20 years. Email: jeff.stinson@swiftcurrie.com. STRONGSVILLE, Ohio Suspicious vehicle, Turkey Meadow Lane: On Dec. 7, police were dispatched to Turkey Meadow Lane regarding a suspicious car call. The resident said a dark-colored gray Honda Accord not only followed him home but then parked on the street with the occupant taking photos. The caller was unable to get a license plate but wanted the incident reported. Shoplifting, SouthPark Center: On Dec. 7, a Sephora employee called police about a customer seen stealing merchandise from the mall. The caller said a woman wearing a purple jacket put items into her purse before leaving the store with payment. An arriving officer located the thief leaving in a Jeep. It turned out the Garfield Heights woman had a warrant. She was arrested and held for transport, as well as charged with theft. The driver, who had a suspended license, also had a warrant but it was out of the pick-up radius. The woman was advised of the warrant and cited for driving with a suspended license. Property theft, Prospect Road: On Dec. 7, a woman called police after discovering someone the night before took her black Michael Kors coat with fur hood, which also had her Chevy fob with a purple cover and apartment keys and fob in the pocket. There are no suspects. Police are investigating. Trespassing, Pearl Road: On Dec. 7, police were dispatched to the Towers at Fallingwater regarding an evicted tenant at the Pearl Road apartment complex. An arriving officer talked to the caller, who said someone was reported in the unit. However, it turned out the person in question wasnt the former tenant. Still, the caller said they were changing the locks. Ghost alarm, Parkwood Lane: On Dec. 7, a Parkwood Lane resident called police regarding a noise complaint. The caller said an alarm was going off in the area but they didnt know where. An arriving officer didnt hear any alarms. Get police blotters by email every weekday for free with our new Police Blotter newsletter. Sign up at cleveland.com/newsletters Serbian prosecutors on Monday charged 13 people, including a former transport minister, over the fatal collapse of a train station roof in the city of Novi Sad last month that killed 15 people. The fatal accident at the northern city's station occurred on November 1, following extensive renovation work at the facility. Fourteen people, aged six to 74, were killed at the scene and a 15th victim died in hospital weeks later. Public outrage over the tragedy has sparked regular nationwide protests, with many blaming the deaths on corruption and inadequate oversight of construction projects. "The indictment was submitted to the Higher Court in Novi Sad, accompanied by the complete documentation collected during the pre-investigation and investigation process, as well as all other evidence," the prosecutor's office in the northern city said in a statement. Former Serbian transport minister Goran Vesic, who resigned over the disaster, was among those charged. The prosecutors requested that the 10 people currently in custody over the incident remain there and that three people who had been released pending the investigation -- including Vesic and the former director of railway infrastructure, Jelena Tanaskovic -- be taken into custody. Serbia's Prime Minister Milos Vucevic said the filing of the indictments less than two months after the accident was "proof that no one obstructed the case". "In a very short period, this was accomplished... which confirms that absolutely no one obstructed the case," Vucevic said in a statement to local media. "It will be a challenging court process, but this is proof that no one intends to hide, cover up or obstruct anything," he said. The latest major protest over the disaster gathered tens of thousands of people in Belgrade on December 22. Protesters are demanding that the authorities take responsibility for the roof collapse, the resignation of the prime minister and the prosecution of those found responsible. Students have also been holding near-daily demonstrations, shutting down the operations of most universities in Serbia for a month and calling for a transparent investigation and accountability. The death toll from South Korea's deadliest plane crash in decades rose to 179 on Monday, a day after the tragedy shook a nation already grappling with intense political turmoil. The United States has dispatched investigators to assist in finding the cause of the Jeju Air crash, which occurred when the plane crash-landed at Muan Airport and collided with a concrete barrier on Sunday. South Korean officials are working to process over 600 recovered body parts. So far, 141 victims have been identified, with the youngest passenger being just 3 years old and the oldest 78, the BBC reported. The plane was carrying 181 people, with only two survivors32-year-old Lee and 25-year-old Kwon, both flight attendantsrescued alive from the tail section of the burning aircraft. South Korea's Transport Ministry announced Monday that it will conduct safety inspections of all 101 Boeing 737-800 jetliners operated by the nation's airlines, along with a comprehensive review of safety standards at Jeju Air, which operates 39 of these planes. Senior ministry official Joo Jong-wan confirmed that representatives from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and Boeing are expected to arrive in South Korea on Monday to assist with the investigation. "The NTSB is leading a team of U.S. investigators (NTSB, Boeing and FAA) to assist the Republic of Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board (ARAIB) with their investigation of the Dec. 29 Jeju Air accident at Muan International Airport in Muan, Republic of Korea," the NTSB Newsroom account wrote on X. Sunday's crash, South Korea's deadliest aviation disaster in decades, has sparked an outpouring of national grief and concern over the government's ability to manage the crisis. The tragedy comes as the country faces a leadership void following the recent impeachments of President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. The political turmoil, fueled by Yoon's brief imposition of martial law earlier this month, has deepened public unease. On Monday, acting President Choi Sang-mok led a task force meeting on the crash, directing authorities to conduct an emergency review of the nation's aircraft operation systems. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway spent the last few trading days of 2024 buying more of an internet company whose shares are trading near their cheapest level in seven years. The conglomerate bought 76,487 shares of Verisign via transactions on Thursday, Friday and Monday for $15.6 million, according to a regulatory filing Monday night. Berkshire now owns 13.8% of the company after scooping up shares consistently throughout this month. Given the still small size of the bet, these transactions could be made by Buffett's investing lieutenants Todd Combs and Ted Weschler. Berkshire first bought the tech stock in 2013 and hasn't adjusted the stake in years. Verisign, headquartered in Reston, Virginia, provides dotcom domain registry service. The company has had a rough year, however, as its pricing structure came under regulatory scrutiny. The stock is ending 2024 flat, missing out on the tech boom that has been driving the bull market. VRSN YTD mountain VeriSign The stock is now trading around 24 times forward earnings, after hitting a low of 21 times earlier this year, its lowest price-to-earnings ratio since 2017, according to FactSet. So, one can argue that VeriSign fits into Berkshire's value investment philosophy, focused on cash flow and price-to-earnings and price-to-book-value yardsticks. Some analysts are turning bullish on VeriSign after the Biden administration eventually renewed its contract with the company, agreeing to discussions on registration prices. "With regulatory concerns now behind, the focus shifts to domain growth, where data is beginning to show improvement," Rob Oliver, Baird equity analyst, said in a note. "We believe the prospects of better macro, potential for channel marketing plans, and the removal of price concerns support a higher risk-adjusted multiple." Baird upgraded its rating on Verisign to outperform from neutral earlier this month, seeing the stock rising 21% to $250 in the next 12 months. The stock closed Monday at $205.10. In each of the past 17 Decembers I have selected and invested personally in 10 of the stocks we follow with the intention of holding for just one year. These are companies that I find especially attractive in light of their valuations or their potential to benefit from economic developments. I hold an equal dollar amount in each of the positions for the following year, and then I reinvest in the new list. The following is my Top Ten for 2025, listed in random order. As with last year's list, this year leans to be perhaps a bit more defensive than in years past. Astute observers who have tracked my picks over the years may also note that the price-to-earnings multiples tend to be larger on this year's list than on ones past. That is largely an artifact of the markets as a whole trading at multiples above historical averages. The Top Ten for 2025 consists of companies with fortress balance sheets, downside protection and upside opportunities. See Farr's list of the top 10 stocks for 2044 Farr, Miller and Washington is a "buy-to-hold" investment manager, which means we make each investment with the intent to hold the position for a period of at least 3 to 5 years. The Top Ten list is a thought experiment, actively testing which stocks within our discipline will perform the best over the course of the next 12 months. It does not represent a complete equity portfolio, much less a complete investment portfolio; it is not a recommendation to buy or sell; it is a sample of what I am invested in across the breadth of my, my family's, holdings. I will sell the names on the 2024 list on Dec. 31 and buy the 2025 names that afternoon. The reader should not assume that an investment in the securities identified was or will be profitable. These are not recommendations to buy or sell securities. There is risk of losing principal. Past performance is no indication of future results. If you are interested in any of these names, please call your financial advisor to discuss. With these disclaimers and qualifiers in place, here is the Top Ten list for 2025. I hope it will give you some insight into our decision- making process on investing. Donaldson (DCI) Founded in 1915, Donaldson is a global manufacturer of filtration systems and replacement parts for engines (on- and off-road trucks and heavy machinery for the transportation, construction, agriculture, and mining industries), industrial plants, power generation and various life sciences applications (bioprocessing, food and beverage, medical device, vehicle electrification, microelectronics and disk drives). DCI YTD line Donaldson performance Management runs the business for the LONG TERM, and so it has continued and will continue to invest in R & D and bolt-on acquisitions at the cost of some near-term profitability. However, the company's balance sheet is very strong and free cash flow generally approaches net income on an annual basis. Lastly, the company has increased its dividend every year for the past 26 years, with the dividend increasing at a 13% rate since 2000. The stock trades at just 18x forward EPS, which is an 18% discount to the S & P 500 compared to an historical average of about a 24% premium. Valmont Industries (VMI) Valmont Industries is a relatively small company ($6.2 billion market cap) that manufactures engineered poles, towers and other structures for a number of different applications, including roads and highway safety, energy transmission, telecommunications, and access systems for construction sites. The company also produces mechanized irrigation systems and metal coatings for its own products as well as those of third-party customers. VMI YTD line Valmont year to date Despite our expectation of slower economic growth and a downturn in the North American agriculture sector, we see no change in the world's need to continue investing in infrastructure, energy and agriculture. At about 17.3x forward EPS, we believe that patient investors could be well rewarded over time as investment spending continues. The company also offers a strong balance sheet and cash flow and a dividend yield of a bit under 1%. Danaher (DHR) Following the separation of its Environmental and Applied Solutions businesses on Sept. 30, 2023, Danaher became a pure-play biotechnology, life sciences and diagnostics company. The company's evolution to its current state occurred through a long series of acquisitions and divestitures designed to generate shareholder value through the application of the company's proprietary set of operating processes and tools it refers to as the Danaher Business System, or "DBS." DHR YTD line Danaher year to date The company's current set of businesses is characterized by a high level of recurring revenue, primarily through a direct sales model, and to a geographically diverse customer base. Its high-growth end markets, recurring revenue, strong free cash flow generation and excellent track record all contribute to a stock that is rarely cheap. However, its current P/E multiple of 27.6x forward EPS is not too far out-of-line with its peer group even though its current business mix should offer better growth prospects. Amazon.com (AMZN) Amazon is a leading player in three businesses that are supported by strong secular tailwinds: cloud computing, e-commerce, and digital advertising. Perhaps more importantly, each of these businesses possesses a wide economic moat. Amazon Web Services (AWS), the market leader in cloud infrastructure services, enjoys strong customer loyalty and benefits from high switching costs. Although AWS growth decelerated during the 2022 slowdown in the technology sector, the segment has recently seen an uptick in demand owing to renewed cloud migration efforts and new Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads. AMZN YTD line Amazon year to date After more than two decades of non-stop reinvestment, AMZN is now a well-oiled machine, generating significant earnings and free cash flow. But while investments will remain elevated in the coming years, improved margins across the company should enable AMZN to compound earnings at a 15-20% annual clip. The stock isn't cheap at 36.2x forward EPS, but premium growth often demands a premium earnings multiple. Finally, the company has an excellent balance sheet with a debt rating of AA (S & P) and negligible net debt (debt net of cash). Becton, Dickinson & Co (BDX) Becton Dickinson is a global supplier of medical devices, hospital supplies, diagnostic equipment, and medication management systems to hospitals and labs. Management estimates that 90% of patients who enter an acute care setting interact with at least one BDX product. Becton has faced a variety of company-specific headwinds in recent years that were exacerbated by the pandemic. However, most of these challenges are now behind them, and the company has made progress on initiatives aimed at streamlining its operations and supply chain. As a result, BDX is on track to return to its pre-COVID operating margins within the next 12 months. BDX YTD mountain Becton Dickinson year to date Moreover, the company has spent the past few years divesting its slower-growing businesses while pursuing several tuck-in acquisitions in higher-growth areas. Looking ahead, these efforts should allow BDX to consistently achieve its long-term growth algorithm of mid-single-digit organic revenue growth and low-double-digit EPS growth. BDX shares currently trade at 15.4x forward EPS a significant discount to both the S & P 500 and its Medtech peers. The dividend yield is 1.8%. Microsoft (MSFT) Microsoft is one of the largest technology companies in the world. It has successfully pivoted from a Windows PC-first world to the cloud and is leading the way in generative Artificial Intelligence. The company is a strategic partner in enterprise digital transformations through its cloud, app and infrastructure, and artificial intelligence offerings. There is a long runway remaining for cloud growth as companies slowly deal with legacy investments that still drive value but are not cloud-based. MSFT is uniquely positioned to grow its wallet share of corporate IT budgets as it encounters new opportunities in security, compliance, and workflow. MSFT YTD mountain Microsoft year to date Shares trade at 31x forward EPS, and we think earnings may grow in the low-to-mid teens over the next several years. The premium valuation is justified given the above-trend growth, exposure to secular trends, and strong balance sheet. Visa (V) Visa is one of the world's leading payments technology companies. It enables fast, secure, and reliable electronic payments across more than 200 countries and territories. The company continues to pursue its network-of-networks strategy, positioning it to be in the middle of everything as it connects networks across the globe. V YTD line Visa year to date Visa Direct is an example whereby the company enables account-to-account transfers using debit card credentials to enable all of the use cases just mentioned. Buy now-pay later has gained popularity, but up to 80% of those using such services pay off their balance using a debit or credit card, resulting in Visa revenue being as much as or greater than if the network had been used for the initial purchase. The company's balance sheet is solid. Shares trade at 27.5x forward EPS and a 16% discount to Mastercard, which seems unwarranted. We expect EPS to grow in the double digits over the next several years. Alphabet (GOOGL) Alphabet is a holding company that owns several subsidiaries, with the most visible and profitable being the internet services giant Google. Google search is the world's most popular search engine, and Android is the most widely used mobile phone operating software. Moreover, the company has seven products and platforms with more than two billion users search, Gmail, Google Maps, YouTube, Chrome, Google Play Store, and Android. GOOGL YTD line Alphabet year to date Advertising dollars continue to shift to digital formats, and we think the company will be a leader in advancing Gen AI and integrating it into its products and services. The company has arguably the best balance sheet in the world with more than $115 billion in cash and investments (net of debt). Shares trade at about 22x forward EPS with double-digit earnings growth. There are risks around government regulation, but we see those developments taking years to play out. Adobe (ADBE) Adobe is a software company that has distinguished itself over the decades as a leader in creativity and digital transformation. Its portfolio spans a wide range of tools from software for graphic design, video editing, and web development to advanced solutions for digital experience management. Nearly all creative professionals rely on Adobe's Creative Cloud, and the industry is largely standardized around it. This provides the company with a wide moat and a large recurring subscription revenue stream. ADBE YTD line Adobe year to date Shares fell this month on guidance for the 2025 fiscal year that fell just shy of market expectations with growth tilted more towards new product introductions and new users as opposed to general pricing increases. The investor shortsightedness has the company trading at just 21.7x forward EPS for a company we think can grow earnings in the double digits over the next several years. Accenture (ACN) Accenture is a global leader in Information Technology (IT) services. The company's business is split roughly evenly between Strategy & Consulting and Managed Services. The Consulting unit is more economically sensitive while Managed Services is comprised of larger long-term contracts that come out of backlog much more slowly. ACN YTD line Accenture year to date The company estimates that just 5-10% of companies are mature enough with their data to benefit from Generative AI at scale. Shares of Accenture are rarely cheap, but we see value at 27.5x forward EPS given its positioning as a partner of choice for firms wanting to modernize their systems and benefit from AI advancements. South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol speaks to the nation at the Presidential Office on December 14, 2024 in Seoul, South Korea. South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol could become the first sitting president of the country to face an arrest after a court issued a warrant against him, domestic media reported. The Seoul Western District Court issued the detention warrant against Yoon, Korea Times reported, after he failed to show up for questioning, despite multiple summons by a joint investigation unit comprising South Korea's police and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials. The warrant empowers the CIO to take Yoon into custody for questioning within 48 hours. Yoon's legal team said it plans to file an injunction with the Constitution Court to suspend the issuance of the warrant, according to a Google translation of a Yonhap report in Korean. A legal representative for Yoon said the warrant was "illegal and invalid" because investigating insurrection charges was outside the CIO's jurisdiction. A separate warrant allows the CIO to search Yoon's residence. Citing security concerns, the Presidential Security Service has blocked access to the presidential office compound and Yoon's official residence, according to news agency Yonhap. South Korean presidents do not enjoy immunity from insurrection or treason charges. Moreover, presidents are not allowed to obstruct a court-issued detention or arrest warrant, according to CIO Chief Oh Dong-woon. Yoon is facing charges related to his declaration of emergency martial law on Dec. 3, which he justified as necessary for the protection of the constitution. He lifted martial law within six hours after the country's National Assembly voted to overturn his decree. Yoon was impeached by lawmakers on Dec. 14, with members of his People Power Party voting in favor of the motion. An earlier vote had failed to reach a two-thirds majority. South Korea's Constitutional Court has begun proceedings to determine whether to remove Yoon from office or to reinstate him, reported Yonhap. It will deliver its ruling within 180 days, starting Dec. 14. While the impeachment suspends Yoon from his duties and powers as head of state, he remains president while the Constitutional Court deliberates on his case. After Yoon's impeachment, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo filled in for the role of president. However, Han was also impeached last week. He was accused by the opposition Democratic Party of being reluctant to immediately appoint three justices to the Constitutional Court. Chio Sang-mok, deputy prime minister and finance minister, became acting president on Dec. 27 following Han's impeachment. CNBC's Ruxandra Iordache and Hakyung Kim contributed to this report. Correction: An earlier version of this report misspelled the name of South Korea's president. Ford Motor Company announced that its X account was hacked on Monday after unauthorized posts appeared, including messages stating, "Israel is a terrorist state," "Free Palestine," and "ALL EYES ON GAZA." Although the posts were quickly deleted, X users captured screenshots and shared them in replies to Ford's recent updates. In an email statement to CBS News Detroit, Ford said, "Our X account was briefly compromised and the previous three posts were not authorized or posted by Ford. We are investigating the issue, and apologize for any confusion caused." David Derigiotis, president of brokerage with Flow Specialty, reportedly said that social media accounts of prominent individuals and corporations have frequently been targeted by hackers over the years. In August, former President Donald Trump alleged that his presidential campaign was hacked after a report appeared to detail foreign agents' efforts to meddle in the 2024 U.S. election. Derigiotis emphasized the importance of individuals and companies swiftly regaining control of compromised accounts and ensuring that hackers are fully removed from the system to prevent further breaches. "There are a few different ways that accounts typically get compromised. It could be employees being targeted, of the company itself," Derigiotis told CBS News Detroit. "It could be the social media manager or individuals who handle marketing and all social media relations for Ford, they could have been targeted. Or it could be somebody on the X side as well. Whatever employees at the organization, if they were targeted, attackers find their way in through various path points." Check out the companies making headlines in midday trading: Intel The struggling chip stock bounced into year-end, rising 1.2%. Intel has plunged just over 60% in 2024, making the stock poised to see its worst year on record and be the second-worst performer in the S & P 500 . Nvidia The artificial intelligence giant and retail investor favorite shed 2.3% as traders took profits as the trading year wraps up. With a rally of more than 170%, Nvidia is poised to be the third-best performer in the S & P 500 for 2024. Sangamo Therapeutics Shares tumbled more than 56% after the genomic medicine company said partner Pfizer terminated a license and development agreement for a gene therapy for hemophilia A. Sangamo retained rights to the product. Biohaven The biopharmaceutical stock popped 4.4% after director John Childs disclosed a purchase of 29,000 shares. Childs now owns around 6.5 million shares. Nutriband Shares jumped 12.7% after Nutriband said it expects an expedited review process for its abuse-deterrent opioid patch called AVERSA Fentanyl, which could position the company to achieve regulatory approval before the end of 2025. This comes after Nutriband announced last week that it extended its Chinese patent to Macao for the technology. Zivo Bioscience Shares rose nearly 3% after Mark Strome, an investor who owns 10% of the biotech research and development company, bought 75,000 shares. CNBC's Sean Conlon, Yun Li and Pia Singh contributed reporting. You can ask for a bottle of Evian or San Pellegrino at Singapore's three-Michelin-starred Restaurant Zen. But you won't get one. The restaurant, which charges nearly $500 per person for dinner, only serves water from the Swedish company Nordaq, said Executive Chef Martin Ofner. Dishes and drinks at the restaurant are made from the water too, from its stocks to the juices in its non-alcoholic beverage pairing, he said. Zen is one of more than 140 Michelin-starred restaurants that serve Nordaq water, company CEO Johanna Mattsson told CNBC Travel. The water, which is purified and bottled on-site using local tap water, is also present in more than 700 luxury hotels, casinos and cruise ships, she said. The company aims to reduce single-use water bottles in the hospitality industry both the cheap plastic variety commonly found in hotel rooms, to glass-bottled European mineral water served in higher-end restaurants. The latter can travel thousands of miles between its source to where it is ultimately consumed. "Transportation of water over water doesn't make sense," said Mattsson. "That's what we want to eliminate." watch now Nordaq's bottles are free from plastic labeling so that they can be easily washed and reused, and they come with wide mouths so that they can be cleaned in regular dishwashers, she said. Bottles are also securely capped and date-stamped after they are refilled, said Mattsson. Mandarin Oriental Singapore has had Nordaq's water system on tap since 2023, with bottles present in the hotel's rooms, restaurants, spa and gym. Hotel Manager Cindy Kong let CNBC Travel tour its bottling facility to see how the bottles are washed, inspected, filled and sealed. She said the facility can produce 500 bottles of purified water in an hour. "Normally we process between 1,000 to 2,000 [bottles] every day," she said. Nordaq is one of many companies in the premium sustainable water business. Castalie water is present in more than 700 hotels in France, according to its website, while Purezza water is served in more than 5,000 venues across 13 countries, according to the company's LinkedIn page. The Indian hospitality company ITC Hotels created its own brand of "zero-mile" water called SunyaAqua to reduce single-use plastic bottles in its 140 hotels. "Every guilt-free sip is bottled in-house, eliminating the need for transport," New Delhi's ITC Maurya posted on Facebook in July. Hospitality companies are the core market for the Swiss sustainable water brand Be WTR. It operates inside hotels with a facility opening soon in Rosewood Abu Dhabi and through centralized facilities. In the latter, Be WTR's founder and CEO Mike Hecker said water may travel slightly farther than ITC Hotel's "zero mile" water, but not by much. "We don't want to transport more than 10 kilometers around our bottling facility, because, as you well know, carbon footprint is highly impacted by transport," he told CNBC. "We try to be located at the point of consumption as much as we can." The company's main operations are in the United Arab Emirates, but the water is sold in 12 countries, including recent expansions into Canada and China, said Hecker. The company closed a $44 million round of Series C funding in October. Be WTR can be found in hotels as varied as Le Bristol Paris, opened in 1925, to The Standard Singapore (here), which opened nearly 100 years later in December 2024. Source: The Standard, Singapore Be WTR signed a global agreement with Accor to be a preferred partner for the French hospitality company's luxury hotel brands. "We are the first company to have a global water agreement targeting [Accor's] five-star brands, such as the Raffles, Pullman [and] Sofitel," he said. Less waste, higher profit Companies that supply the tourism and food industries with no- or low-transport filtered water say they save millions of plastic bottles from being used every year. But they have another selling point they can generate a profit for their clients too. Be WTR's Hecker said its first bottling plant at Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi saved "over one million imported bottles a year. And this is a considerable achievement, both in carbon footprint, but also in creating positive profit for our client." CNBC's Travel Editor Monica Pitrelli samples Nordaq water with CEO Johanna Mattsson. A running tally on Nordaq's website says the company has saved some 5.7 billion plastic bottles from being used, a statistic based on data extracted from the company's bottling facilities, the company said. Source: Zap PR We're exiting our position in Advanced Micro Devices , selling our remaining 300 shares at roughly $122 each. We're also buying 25 shares of Constellation Brands at roughly $221. Following Tuesday's trades, Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust will own 450 shares of STZ, increasing its weighting in the portfolio to 2.8% from 2.64%. The Trust will no longer hold a position in AMD. We're making a couple of moves on this last trading day of 2024. AMD YTD mountain Advanced Micro Devices YTD Earlier this month , we downgraded AMD to our 3 rating meaning sell into strength and cut our position in half on competitive concerns from custom artificial intelligence chips. While we previously thought AMD's AI graphics processing unit (GPU) roadmap would be competitive and win business from all the major hyperscalers, our view changed after listening to the recent earnings call from Broadcom CEO Hock Tan and Marvell Technology CEO Matt Murphy on "Mad Money." Both companies are leaders in the custom chip business. The two executives made a strong case for why hyperscalers like Club holdings Amazon , Alphabet , and Meta Platforms increasingly prefer custom chips as alternatives to Nvidia 's leading AI GPUs. Each company is spending billions of dollars on these custom chips because they are cheaper, are optimized for specific workloads, and are more energy efficient. Due to the rise of these specialized chips, we are less optimistic about AMD's ability to aggressively ramp up sales of its AI chip in 2025. With our thesis changed, we'll move on from the rest of this position and realize an average loss of about 15% on stock purchased from August to November. Broadcom and Nvidia are also Club names. STZ YTD mountain Constellation Brands YTD We are taking some of that cash to nibble on shares of Constellation Brands, which we called out in a Friday screen of cheap stocks to buy . Shares of this Mexican beer powerhouse have been a major disappointment in 2024, and they hit a 52-week low below $220 during Tuesday trading. The company's struggling wine and spirits unit was also a drag this year. The stock has fallen roughly 14% since the start of October and 8% for the year on concerns about slowing depletion growth and potential tariffs on imports from Mexico where the company's Modelo, Corona, and Pacifico brands are made. But at roughly 15 times earnings estimates over the next 12 months, we think the stock's multiple discounts these risks. If tariffs are not implemented or Constellation gets an exemption because it can't make Mexican beer in the United States, the stock should trade up significantly. In addition, we think 2025 will be the year where the Constellation narrative shifts from its peak capital expenditure year to accelerating free cash flow. A meaningful step up in cash returns to shareholders via dividends and buybacks should help the stock attain a higher multiple. Also, we welcomed management's steps this year to overhaul parts of its wine and spirits portfolio to focus on premium brands. We hope to see more of that in the year to come as we have been calling for the company to get rid of wine and spirits and concentrate solely on beer. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long STZ. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Bangladeshs interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has announced that it has decided to prepare a proclamation of July uprising, a day after it distanced itself from a proposed declaration with an identical title by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to an upheaval four months ago.We hope within few days the proclamation will be prepared with the participation and consensus of all and presented before the nation, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, told reporters in a midnight press conference.Addressing reporters in front of Yunus official Jamuna residence, Alam said the declaration would be based on the views of all participating students, political parties, and stakeholders, including the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina s Awami League regime on August 5.Alam said the government took the initiative to prepare the proposed charter to consolidate the people's unity, anti-fascist spirit and desire for state reform developed through the July uprising".The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement along with the National Citizens Committee, another grouping led by the students, two days ago in a surprise development said it would announce the proclamation of the July uprising on Tuesday afternoon at Dhakas Central Shaheed Minar.But soon after the governments midnight announcement, the students platform hurriedly called an emergency meeting and nearly two hours later told newsmen that instead of the proclamation they would rather stage a march for unity at the same venue and time."The Mujibist '72 constitution will be buried (in the proclamation) in the very place where the one-point declaration was made during the July uprising, the platforms convener Hasnat Abdullah told a press conference on December 29.Abdullah at that time said that Indian aggression was initiated through the principles of the 1972 constitution (and) the proclamation will make it clear how the Mujibist constitution destroyed the aspirations of the people and exactly how we want to replace it.The platform leader said the proclamation was expected to declare irrelevant the deposed premiers Nazi Awami League in Bangladesh as well.Anti-Discrimination Students Movement leader and chief organiser of the National Citizens' Committee Sarjis Alam told the same press conference that we believe the way our revolution was embraced by all anti-fascists; this proclamation will also contain everyone's hopes and aspirations.The 1972 constitution was framed a year after the emergence of independent Bangladesh by representatives elected in the 1970 elections in line with their mandate as constitute assembly members with Awami League under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gaining an absolute majority.The party won 160 of the 162 general seats and all seven women's seats in then-East Pakistan. However, Pakistan s then-military junta under General Yahya Khan eventually launched a sudden army crackdown leading to the Liberation War.The interim government visibly distanced itself from the proclamation with Yunus press secretary saying the government has nothing to do with it and wants see it (proclamation) as private initiative.Awami League has not been seen in the public sphere since the August 5 ouster of the regime as many of its leaders were arrested or are on the run at home and abroad, limiting their activities on social media platforms occasionally.But some leaders of ex-premier Khaleda Zias BNP sharply reacted to the proposal with its highest policy-making standing committee member Mirza Abbas saying the constitution was written in 1972 at the cost of the blood of 3 million martyrs.As your seniors, we feel disappointed when you (Student Movement leaders) say the constitution should be buried. If there is anything bad in the constitution, it can be amended, he told reporters.Abbas said, When you (student leaders) say things like this, it sounds fascist as fascists used to say, we will bury them, kill them, and cut them off".The students platform and different political groups including BNP often dub the ousted regime as fascist. India is set to push for prospective interoperability of social security agreements (SSAs) for Indian nationals working in the United States. Government sources have told CNBC-TV18 that India is going to make a renewed push for SSAs with the United States, negotiations for which will be taken up on priority with the upcoming Trump administration.Sources indicated that India is keen to push for prospective application of any totalisation agreement with the United States, which will allow workers to avoid social security taxes in both the countries simultaneously. If enacted, any such agreement will help reduce costs for professionals from both nations as well as allow interoperability of social security benefits.Currently Indian professionals on H-1B visas in the US pay social security taxes, but don't qualify for social security benefits due to a 10-year eligibility rule. As per NASSCOM, Indian IT workers have lost over $1 billion in statutory payment made for social security benefits. Contributions of many IT professionals remain unutilized as they leave before the mandatory 10-year period for availing social security benefits.The Indian government has shared data with the US as part of dialogue on SSAs, and is also negotiating similar agreements with the UK, Chile, Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Sources added that despite Indias push, the US has not been convinced about Indias social security model and believes that the EPFO model is incompatible with the US social security system.India has operational SSAs with 19 countries: Austria, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, and Switzerland. 2 more SSAs signed with Argentina and Poland are yet to be ratified by their respective Parliaments. Apart from SSAs, India has Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements (MMPAs) with 7 countries: France, UK, Germany, Austria, Australia, Italy, and Denmark. India also has Labour Mobility Agreements (LMAs) with 9 countries: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Japan, Kuwait, Portugal, Mauritius, Israel, and Taiwan. Former President Jimmy Carter receives flowers from a little girl on his arrival at the airport in Goma, Zaire, in November 1995. RICARDO MAZALAN/Associated Press Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn Carter pay respects at the Intarama genocide memorial site, about 20 miles south of Kigali, in November 1995. Carter had visited Rwanda on a fact-finding mission to promote a heads-of-state meeting to negotiate an end to the refugee crisis. CHRIS TOMLINSON/Associated Press My first big assignment as a journalist was covering President Jimmy Carters 1995 visit to Rwanda, a doomed mission that brought him little acclaim. Carter didnt fight disease, promote democracy or negotiate peace to make headlines. He did the work quietly and diligently to make the world a better place. His life was a master class in a leadership style firmly out of fashion but will hopefully return. I was in my third month as the Associated Press and Voice of America stringer in Kigali, Rwandas capital. A civil war between an ethno-fascist Hutu government and rebels from the Tutsi minority had culminated in the 1994 genocide that slaughtered 1 million people, most of them Tutsi civilians, in 100 days. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Tutsi-led rebels drove the Hutu leadership and 1.2 million of their followers into neighboring Zaire, now known as Democratic Republic of the Congo. Insurgents from the Zairian refugee camps were still killing 300 people a week in Rwanda more than a year later. Carter wanted to negotiate a deal between the new Tutsi-led Rwandan government and Zaires dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, whose murderous misrule had made him a pariah. I trailed Carter through Rwanda and the Zairian refugee camps. His Secret Service detail was minimal, yet he moved through these dangerous places with a confidence, kindness and humility that only comes from tremendous inner strength. He spoke to political leaders, genocide victims, refugees and me with the same courtesy and respect. He knew Mobutu would probably never agree to a peace deal, but unlike most famous people, he didnt allow the likelihood of failure to stop him from trying. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These leaders know that Im their last chance to rejoin the international community, Carter told me while driving to a church where the skeletons of the dead were displayed as a genocide memorial. He laughed and added, If Jimmy Carter gives up on you, theres no one else coming. Carter met with Mobutu, and he agreed to a summit with the Rwanda foreign minister. Diplomats knew Mobutu had cancer and hoped he might cut a deal to boost his legacy. Carters staff asked me to join the trip to Mobutus palace in Gbadolite, Zaire. I watched Mobutu turn the summit into a farce. Eighteen months later, Rwanda overthrew him, installed a new president and forced the refugees home. The old dictator died in exile. Carter kept lobbying for world peace. I saw the former president many more times over my 11 years in Africa. His foundation, the Carter Center, monitored elections and fought preventable diseases like river blindness, guinea worm and other neglected tropical diseases. Carters work saved tens of millions of people from suffering, but he never made a big deal out of it. No one can accomplish so much without steely determination. Too often, I hear people describe Carter as the weak and bumbling caricature that President Ronald Reagan created to win the 1980 election. Folks should stop confusing courtesy for weakness. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam debacle, Carter, in 1976, offered an alternative to Richard Nixons imperial presidency. He practiced what has become known as servant leadership, the theory that a leaders primary duty is ensuring subordinates have the tools they need to accomplish their mission. In the Army, my brigade commander instilled servant leadership in me when I joined his staff as a newly minted sergeant in 1986. He explained that junior enlisted members did not serve me because I outranked them; my rank meant I was responsible for their success, and the colonel promised to hold me accountable if they failed. The term servant leadership is hackneyed, but it captures valuable techniques that have caught on in the business world. It emphasizes listening, empathy, persuasion, stewardship and community building while discouraging egotism and authoritarianism. The greater good comes first, not any individual. While president, Carter rejected much of the pomp at the White House. His speeches focused on addressing problems, not promoting himself. Despite attending the U.S. Naval Academy and serving in the nuclear navy, he was never a warrior-king style leader, which American voters tend to favor. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Humility does not do well in the current culture, where conspicuousness is valued. Politicians must constantly self-promote while denigrating their rivals. Compromise is considered a failure, and vulgarity is considered clever. The strongest people Ive encountered in the most difficult places dont puff up their chests. They dont need others to bow before them. People with inner strength dont use cruelty to prove their power. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Need ideas or motivation to help you build a spreadsheet in Google Sheets? You can browse through the templates that are included in this office app and select one to customize. But a more intriguing option is to use the tool in Sheets called Help Me Organize. Powered by Googles generative AI technology, Gemini, you can use it to generate a template thats more tailored for you. Based on a brief description that you write (referred to as a prompt), Help Me Organize generates a table with headings, placeholder text, and possible formulas in its cells that you can then adjust to your needs. Its mainly designed to create templates for project management. But you can tease it to make templates that include some formulas and tables that can be used to create charts. This guide explains how to use Help Me Organize and provides tips for getting best results. River Oaks District announced several new tenants. Fertitta Entertainment Stefano Ricci, a luxury Italian menswear brand, has opened its first Texas store in the River Oaks District. It's one of several first-to-Texas tenants recently announced by the mixed-use district, which was acquired by Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta in March. Located at 4444 Westheimer, River Oaks District is home to more than 60 shops including a concentration of exclusive global brands such as Hermes, Dior, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. The family-run Stefano Ricci, which was founded near Florence, Italy, in 1972, sells Italian made menswear, accessories, shoes, fragrances and items for the home. The store is next to luxury menswear brand Brioni. Advertisement Article continues below this ad L'Agence, a Los Angeles-based womens lifestyle brand founded by Jeff Rudes and Margaret Maldonado in 2008, also recently made its Texas debut at the River Oaks District, next to Veronica Beard. Houston designer Christy Lynn opened a pop-up store featuring womenswear. The shop, between Baccarat and Kiton, will remain open through February. Next up, Biologique Recherche, a skin-care brand founded in Paris, plans to open a flagship spa offering face, body and scalp treatments in the district on Jan. 8. It will be the third U.S. location, following Los Angeles and Boston. Advertisement Article continues below this ad New Years Eve is a special day, and its a time when we must consider our words carefully. Two years ago, we considered some Depressing Last Words From Five Famous People, and last year, we considered Eight Foreign Words for Describing How Youre Drunk. There is only one place to go from here. Lets now look at famous people whose last words describe how theyre getting drunk. 6 Pablo Picasso Picasso lived to the age of 91, which is remarkable for an artist. Most die young, either because they are poor or (equally dangerously) because they get rich, which opens them up to a whole new world of dangers. Years of substance abuse do little for their life expectancy. Many also die deaths of despair, since so many of them are depressed if they werent depressed, they never would have devoted their life to art. But Picasso lived long. He became an adult in the 19th century, and he was still around (and still painting) in the early 1970s. On April 7, 1973, he hosted a party, and as he bid goodbye to his guests, he said, Drink to me. Drink to my health. You know I cant drink any more. Don't Miss Either he said any more or anymore. Both turned out to be true, because he was found dead the next morning. The words that the friends shared with the world became so famous that Paul McCartney turned them into a song: 5 The British Killer Advertisement On his last day alive, someone offered Neville Heath a whiskey. While youre about it, sir, replied Heath, you might make that a double. That sounds nice enough, unless you know exactly who Neville Heath was. Heaths claim to fame was his habit of taking women to hotel rooms and murdering them. The first victim was Margery Gardner. Hotel staff found her tied up, whipped and having had been further tortured by some mysterious instrument before being suffocated to death. The second victim, Doreen Marshall, was wise enough to leave the hotel before he could finish his plans with her. But he then just followed her and tortured and killed her anyway. Police Gazette They nicknamed him The Lady Killer. Personally, we would have gone with Neville the Devil. He was hanged in London on October 16, 1946. The hangman offered him a last drink, as was tradition. Heaths reply, asking for a double, referred to how he had committed double murder. This is that dry British wit weve all heard so much about. Advertisement 4 Carl Jung Youll sometimes hear the followers of psychologist Carl Jung referred to as a cult. He was a charismatic guy, and anytime someone talking about archetypes like the sage and the shadow, you need to make sure they arent dropping hints about how theyre a supervillain and plan to kill us all. Those cult accusations appear to be wholly untrue, one of several ways people tried to undermine him. For example, people had a special name for the women in his inner circle: maenads, after the followers of Dionysus. Critics also called these women valkyries. Both names were meant as insults, while both unintentionally sounded really cool. Advertisement Johan Sandberg Oh yeah, wouldnt ever want to be likened to these. It was to these maenads that Jung said his last words: Lets have a really good red wine tonight. It was an appropriate request to the disciples of Dionysus. Advertisement 3 Jack Daniel Jack Daniel, the ultimate whiskey man, died from an infected toe. Some say the founder of Jack Daniels distillery injured this toe by kicking a safe that he was unable to open. Either that, or his toe became infected through some unrelated random means, which isnt much better. Marcel Strau Probably when he was drunk, which is some defense. When blood poisoning killed him in 1911, those around him reported his last words as, One last drink, please. To which they probably replied, Oh, come ON. You planned that, didnt you? You had that line all stored up, and you used your dying breath to advertise your company more. Give it a rest! He did so. Advertisement 2 The Founder of Alcoholics Anonymous Anonymity is a crucial pillar of AA. Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, they say, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities. This may be confusing to those of you who know that meetings begin by introducing yourself (then saying and Im an alcoholic), but theres a big difference between sharing your first name and sharing your identity. For this reason, the founder of AA usually didnt use his full name professionally. He simply called himself Bill W. Anamix/Commons This is the organization logo, which does not depict two penises lined up. The last words of Bill W. were recorded by the nurse who attended to him during his last days. These last words were requests for whiskey. She didnt give him want he wanted, so he died sober. Advertisement Advertisement If that doesnt sound like much fun, know that during his years of abstaining from alcohol, Bill did try LSD, and he loved it. Nic Cage has beef with Seth Rogen, according to Far Out, and its all thanks to a failed audition for The Green Hornet? Cage was up for the villain role in Rogens 2011 sorta-superhero film. The Green Hornet was something I wanted to do, Cage said. I think Michel Gondry is very talented, and I had hoped it would work. But I think Seth Rogen and Michel had a different direction for the character totally than the way I wanted to go. Surprise, surprise the way that Cage wanted to go was completely bizarre. I wasnt interested in just being a straight-up bad guy who was killing people willy-nilly, he said. I had to have some humanity and try to give it something where you could understand why the character was the way he was. Don't Miss Cages plan to make bad guy Benjamin Chudnofsky more human was to give him a Jamaican accent. Wait, what now? Rogen, understandably, was hesitant to have Cage turn a guy named Chudnofsy into a white Bahamian who would take down the Green Hornet via a voodoo ritual. But Cage insisted on talking about the part in person. Fair enough. Rogen and his Green Hornet team showed up at Cages place to hear him out. Within 60 seconds, we were all seated in the living room as he stood in front of us, reciting a monologue in a Jamaican accent. We were all just like, Whats happening? A monologue, I should add, that was not in the script nor did it have anything to do with the script. At which point I was like, I dont think hes read the script! Rogen remembered. There was no indication he had any idea what film we were trying to make, other than it was called The Green Hornet and there was a villain in it. Needless to say, Cage didnt get the role. Hey, it happens. But losing a part wasnt what caused the rift between Rogen and Cage. That happened a few years later when former Rogen pal James Franco showed up in Spring Breakers speaking in a ludicrous accent. Advertisement Cage was furious at Rogen: Did you tell James about that meeting we had? The Jamaican meeting? Advertisement Advertisement He was like, Because that guy in Spring Breakers, was that based on the character I did for you guys? Rogen remembered. I was like, No, absolutely not, I think it was actually based on a Florida rapper. He very clearly didnt believe me. Listening to Francos Spring Breakers character, its easy to side with Rogen. Francos lazy drawl, sprinkled with yalls, is definitely weird but doesnt sound remotely Jamaican. The actor confirmed to GQ that he based the character on this local Florida rapper named Dangeruss. Hes fairly unknown, but he was down there in the place, living the life, and he became the biggest model for me. Why did Rogen go public with Cages angry rant? I mean, he already doesnt like me, Rogen said. So hell continue not to like me! The Simpsons hasnt always had the coziest relationship with U.S. presidents. George H.W. Bush famously slammed the show during a speech (prompting Homer and Bart to retaliate), and one would imagine that Richard Nixon likely wasnt thrilled at being depicted as one of Satans go-to soulless minions, along with John Wilkes Booth, Blackbeard the Pirate and the starting lineup of the 1976 Philadelphia Flyers. But former President Jimmy Carter, who just passed away at the age of 100, actually gave the show a chance after it had been recommended by a family member. It didnt, however, exactly win him over. Don't Miss Following the news of Carters death, Simpsons writer Mike Reiss recently posted on social media, recalling that Carters grandson once told him that they had urged President Carter to check out the animated series for its smart political satire. Unfortunately, the first episode that Carter watched, coincidentally, happened to be Season Fours Marge in Chains, in which the former commander-in-chief is referred to as historys greatest monster by a random Springfieldian. For context, in the episode, the Springfield Park Commission wants to erect a statue of Abraham Lincoln, but because Marge is in prison for accidentally shoplifting a bottle of Colonel Kwik-E-Marts Kentucky Bourbon, she isnt able to contribute to the towns bake sale. So the funds come up short, forcing the town to go with a budget Carter monument instead, complete with a plaque referencing his so-called malaise speech. Advertisement The historys greatest monster line, right as the statue is unveiled, was obviously meant to be completely absurd (as is the suggestion that a political figure as broadly inoffensive as Carter would spark a violent riot). Advertisement In retrospect, the implication that Carter was the cheapest possible presidential statue available is far more demeaning. And the ending of the episode in which the town of Springfield ultimately decides to just turn the Carter statue into a Marge Simpson statue, which then gets turned into a tetherball pole is also somewhat insulting. Reiss previously documented his experience meeting Carters grandson in the book Springfield Confidential, claiming that, as a result of this incident, Jimmy Carter will never do our show. Still, representations of Carter appeared on The Simpsons multiple times over the years, none of which were especially flattering. For instance, there was the time that he got a hammer up his nostrils during a Three Stooges-esque routine with George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton: Advertisement He also, briefly, attempted to challenge Homer to a duel: Advertisement And showed off his comedy breakdancing skills in Season 11s Behind the Laughter: Advertisement Who knows, if not for Marge in Chains, perhaps the show could have convinced the real Carter to guest star and record the line, Got a brother named Billy, and my teeth look silly. Seth Meyers says the Weekend Update hosts were still rattled more than 24 hours later As is tradition, the final installment of Saturday Night Lives Weekend Update for 2024 found fake news anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che penning horrifically offensive jokes for each other to read on camera. The Christmas joke swap seemed even more brutal this year than ever before, even if that brutality was also conspicuously contrived. Its not enough to simply force Jost to make crude jokes about his famous wife, Scarlett Johansson, anymore this time there had to be a camera set-up to capture her live reaction to the segment. Ancient Rome had gladiator fights, and 21st century America has this, I guess: Don't Miss Most of us would assume that these cringeworthy gags dont have much of an effect on Che and Jost. After all, despite their apparent on-screen embarrassment, the duo willingly agree to participate in this segment year after year, even if it means kicking off the holiday season by giggling through increasingly upsetting racist and sexist pseudo-jokes, sometimes in front of 100 percent fictional Civil Rights heroes. Play Che and Jost have been doing these joke swaps for nearly a decade, surely they must be totally desensitized to them by this point, right? Advertisement Advertisement Well, not necessarily. On the latest episode of The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers Podcast, the hosts discussed the recent holiday installment of SNL, and specifically, the particularly vicious Weekend Update bit. This is not a modern SNL rewatch podcast, Meyers noted, (but) I will say (that) the holiday joke swap between Che and Jost was really something to see. They were going hard, Andy Samberg agreed, adding that Jost really got the worst side of it this year. Meyers admitted that watching the joke swap made him feel stressed as if he were falling off a building. And he revealed that Che and Jost seemed similarly shaken up afterwards. I texted them together and said: That was incredible. That was the most incredible six minutes of television, Meyers recalled. And both of them wrote back in a way that made it clear they were haunted by the experience. How exactly were they haunted? It wasnt, Ha ha, yeah man, how rad was that? Meyers continued. Jost said: My heart is still pounding. And it was a full day and a half later. Advertisement Play While the segment may have taken a bigger psychological toll on Che and Jost than we realized, judging from the staggering amount of online attention that its received this year, the joke swap will likely continue until audiences get sick of it or someone literally dies of embarrassment. Alora partners, left to right, Louis Quy, his wife Ngoc Tran, chefs Diego Ponce and his wife Makayla Ponce pose for a portrait at Alora. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer When Alora opens to the public on Jan. 2, it will merge two cuisines that have never been combined in Houston before: Peruvian and Vietnamese. A serving of fresh fish swaddled in leche de tigre or a golden, crispy pork spring roll is easy to find on its own. But spiking the Peruvian favorite of lime-drenched seafood with fish sauce, a staple ingredient in Southeast Asian cooking, or stuffing the Vietnamese crowd favorite with a yellow pepper chicken stew? Good luck finding it in Americas fourth largest city. The Montrose restaurant, 2502 Dunlavy, comes from two married couples. Ngoc Tran and Louis Quys resumes include experience in hotels and finance, respectively. Diego and Makayla Ponce have spent years cooking in Houston restaurants. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Alora is our first restaurant, our first baby, said Diego Ponce, in a statement. It represents my dream coming true. While Aloras debut has garnered attention for its trailblazing menu, the restaurant partners are also ready to move on from a turbulent introduction to Houstonians. They took over the former home of Kau Ba, the innovative Vietnamese restaurant known as much for its Cajun flair as its celebrity chef Nikki Tran. The Michelin Guide awarded the restaurant with a Bib Gourmand designation but took it off the prestigious list just days after discovering the business had been closed for weeks, possibly months. HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants The dining room and bar at Alora. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer The bar at Alora. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer The dining room and bar at Alora. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Alora, which the team said has Latin origins and means beautiful dream, has come together in only about a month since the Kau Ba and Michelin fallout made headlines across the state. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The team had forest green banquettes installed. Tables and chairs with warm wood tones dot the room. Aloras new look, the team said, feels more intimate with an upscale casual atmosphere. Tran and Quy originally had visions of opening an elegant bar in Montrose, but they couldnt find the right space until there was an opportunity to take over Kau Ba. Not long after, they approached the Ponces about partnering up on Alora (Tran met Diego while working at the InterContinental hotel, where he was the executive sous chef until recently). Diego, who worked in top restaurants across Peru and Brazil before coming to Houston, has cooked at several different hotels in the city. Makayla met Diego while working at the Four Seasons and later spent time cooking at Michelin-starred March and as the sous chef of the now-closed Mediterranean restaurant Albi. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE FROM BAO ONG: 15 Houston restaurant closings that defined 2024, including longtime staples Damian's and Nippon Alora's menu is "Peruvian forward and Vietnamese inspired." The inspiration to combine Peruvian and Vietnamese flavors came to fruition in September when the couples traveled together to Vietnam. They spent 10 days dining at as many trendy restaurants as streetside spots. Their ideas for Alora included modern restaurants in Vietnam serving dishes that combine flavors across cultures, as well as bars offering the omakase experience with cocktails. Peru, which has a long history of Asian immigrants, is known for its Nikkei cuisine, which combines Peruvian and Japanese cooking traditions. Theres also the lesser-known genre known as chifa, combining Cantonese elements with the South American countrys ingredients. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its Peruvian-forward and Vietnamese-inspired, Makayla Ponce said of Aloras menu. The PeruViet ceviche, which the team experimented with during a recent pop-up, features a fresh fish of the day combined with Cuzco corn, sweet potatoes, leche de tigre and nuoc cham, the fish sauce-based ingredient ubiquitous in Vietnamese cooking. Lomo saltado, Perus signature dish, is a star dish on the menu which also shares similarities to the popular Vietnamese shaking beef dish. The chefs toss the beef in a wok with soy sauce and serve it with garlic-tinged rice instead of the usual fried potatoes. Alora's cocktails, like its dishes, combine traditional Peruvian and Vietnamese ingredients and flavors. Even the cocktails take on a similar fusion-inspired route. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Pho-quila includes tequila thats been infused with pho spices. A smokey old fashioned and takes on the mai tai are also options. Perus signature drink, the pisco sour, uses passion fruit for a tropical spin. To ring in the year 2011, MTV celebrated in the most 2011 way possible: By dropping a ball with Jersey Shore star Snooki in it as the clock struck midnight. Originally, the giant hamster ball was supposed to be dropped in Times Square, but at the last minute, the location needed to be switched to Seaside Heights, New Jersey instead. For then SNL cast member Bobby Moynihan, however, the occasion was memorable for a whole different reason: After impersonating Snooki for more than a year on SNL, he finally got to meet her for the first time. Don't Miss In my first year on SNL, he tells me, I did Snooki, and the reaction just felt different. I had got stuff on the air that was good before that, but the first time I did Snooki was the first time I said, Wow, this show is nuts, and people were asking me about it in interviews. It was totally different. One of the most iconic things about the impression aside from what Moynihan calls the loud Italian vibes he brought to it was the orange makeup he used to emulate Snookis ever-present tan. My bathtub was orange for a year, Moynihan remembers. If I see an SNL clip go by on YouTube, and Im watching it, Ill say, I must have done a Snooki in this episode because my knuckles and the insides of my ears are still orange in this sketch. Advertisement Advertisement As for his fateful first encounter with Snooki, he says, I did the MTV New Years special with her, dressed as her. We shot it at like nine in the morning, and we started doing shots almost immediately. She was like, Lets do shots! I was a younger man then. I remember walking through Times Square with Snooki dressed as Snooki in the same exact outfit and her being like, This is weird. Whats your name? She had no idea who I was and didnt care, Moynihan continues. She told me, I make a lot more money now, ever since you made fun of me on SNL. I do personal appearances, and now people know who I am because I was on SNL. I was like, Good. Im glad, while I was thinking Im glad you make more money than I do. Advertisement Advertisement Moynihan says that the rest of the experience was a blur, but that he was game for whatever Snooki or Lorne Michaels were up for. I was dressed as Snooki in the middle of Times Square, he explains. But back then, if someone had told me to jump into traffic, I probably would have said, If Lorne said Ill do it, I guess Ill do it! As weve mentioned before, The Criterion Collection is the home video company that releases high quality (but definitely not cheap) DVD and Blu-ray editions of those films that they have deemed worthy. Sadly, their announcement that Kindergarten Cop had joined the collection was just a cruel April Fools Day joke. Criterion also regularly invites filmmakers and actors to take items from their offices closet (the one full of discs, not the one containing mops and window cleaner). The Criterion Closet videos are a big hit with film fans who want to hear, say, Charlie Day talking about how Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia inadvertently ripped off Francois Truffauts The 400 Blows. Play This week, the closet hosted Kevin Smith, whose Chasing Amy was released by Criterion (and whose Yoga Hosers definitely wasnt). The director took the opportunity to shout out his favorite classic films, some of which were more surprising than others. For starters, Smith singled out Howard Hawks rapid-fire dialogue-filled His Girl Friday, calling it a very influential film for me, even though it features old-timey people. Advertisement Advertisement Speaking of old-timey people, his next pick was Orson Welles Citizen Kane? Hearing that His Girl Friday was an influence on Smith isnt a huge shocker, but it's a little harder to see a connection between Welles masterpiece and Smiths filmography. Citizen Kane (is) one of my favorite films, if not my absolute favorite film, Smith explained. Probably the film Ive watched the most in life. Advertisement Advertisement Seemingly anticipating that some Criterion fans might be skeptical of that assertion, he added, Isnt that weird? Like, youre like, I dont know, based on your work, I would have thought Porkys. Smith did point out one similarity between his cinematic output and Welles: Both Citizen Kane and Clerks were shot in black and white. Unless theres a scene in Citizen Kane in which Charles Foster Kane complains about how many blow jobs his girlfriend has given that weve forgotten about, the similarities end there. Play Smith also paid tribute to two other movies that were instrumental in his filmmaking career, including Robert Townsends showbiz satire Hollywood Shuffle. Advertisement Advertisement While the content of the film didnt necessarily inspire Smith, Townsends unusual funding strategy did. He talked about using credit cards to pay for the movie, Smith recalled. Years later, I would use that information. Ive never met Robert Townsend, but hes one of my absolute heroes. (Although Smith didnt take any of Townsends other brilliant budget-conscious strategies, such as buying his crew members UCLA T-shirts in order to obtain student discounts on equipment and film without permits.) Advertisement Smith also noted that Richard Linklaters Slacker is the movie that first inspired him to ever attempt to make his own independent film. This movie changed my life, Smith proclaimed. If youre just like I fucking hate Kevin Smith, 30 years of terrible movies, I cant believe Criterion (released) Chasing Amy blame Richard Linklater. In 2024, hackers had a field day finding sneaky ways into systems from convincing phishing scams that played on human curiosity to brutal software flaws that exposed gaps in tech upkeep. It was a year of clever breaches, showing just how wide the gap is between user habits and security practices. While every year brings new types of attacks, its important to realize that hackers are always going to look for the easiest ways to get in, and that means areas where security teams lack the visibility or control, they need to mitigate risks, said Melinda Marks, senior analyst at Enterprise Strategy Group. Lets deep dive into the top ways attackers slipped past defenses this year. Photo-Illustration: Curbed; Photos: Getty Images Oscar Abolafia Way felt like a no-brainer. Abolafia was an Upper West Side lifer whose photos of New York City during the 1960s and 70s made it seem like everyone here was famous or at least about to run into somebody famous: Frank Sinatra and Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis slipping out of the 21 Club, Elliott Gould at Katzs with Bella Abzug, Andy Warhol across the table from Mick Jagger at Regines. But when it came time for Community Board 7 to vote on his enduring geographic legacy at West 98th and Broadway, things got tense. A local report from the meeting detailed the extent of the disagreement among his neighbors at the Gramont: He was the unofficial mayor of the building who gave kids presents for getting good grades. Actually, he was rude, crude, and obnoxious. No, he checked in on everyone and held court from a folding chair on the sidewalk. During the course of the meeting, he was celebrated as an irreplaceable part of the buildings history and accused of being a busybody and a gossip who enjoyed stirring things up who also used homophobic and demeaning religious slurs. Things got so heated that Transportation Committee co-chair Mark Dillard had to calm down the gallery on multiple occasions. The nomination floundered. What might seem like outlier local drama is actually the way these things tend to go when the reputation of New York City as both an idea and real place is put in the hands of, well, present-day New Yorkers. Street co-namings, those bonus street signs that sit above the actual street sign to indicate that a person of some importance is somehow connected to the area, are always a fight. (Theres always endless drama around them because community boards have strong opinions, block associations have strong opinions, and you also want to do it in a way that makes everyone feel good, the former Speaker of the New York City Council Corey Johnson told the New York Times in 2017, when people were fighting about the removal of a sign honoring Jimmy Breslin at 42nd and Second.) But these little arguments raise two essential questions about the city: Why do we name streets after people and who actually deserves it? There are a few ways these fights go. Sometimes its contending with a persons complicated personhood, often for sins greater than Abolafias apparent penchant for gossip. Al Jolson, Miles Davis, and even Leonard Bernstein have streets co-named for them and have gone through varying degrees of cultural reappraisal ranging from messy bisexual (Bernstein) to appearing in blackface (Jolson) to allegations of spousal abuse (Davis). For the most part, artists living and dead are often granted a greater leniency when it comes to their behavior. This doesnt necessarily excuse what they do, but the more famous they are, the harder it becomes to argue against their addition to a street sign. But often these disagreements are pettier. In 2018, Community Board 1 denied the petition for a Tribeca co-naming in honor of Staff Sergeant Jimmy Naughton, the first New York City police officer to be killed in Iraq. It wasnt that the board didnt agree that Naughton was worthy of the honor everyone supported doing something for him but no one could agree on what. Part of the drama was that the Community Board had already turned down co-naming Lispenard Street for David Ruggles, a Black publisher and abolitionist whose home on that street was a stop on the Underground Railroad. If they said no to Ruggles who wound up getting a plaque, instead would it be weird to say yes to Naughton? (I would be very uncomfortable to say no to Ruggles and yes to somebody else, a Lispenard Street resident said at the time. Its not consistent.) One board member argued that the pole in question at Lispenard and Canal was already too crowded with signs. A number of board members suggested that maybe a plaque was a way to go instead since Ruggles got a plaque, too. That would be more fair, right? (The city doesnt put plaques up, said CB1 chair Anthony Notaro at the time.) The New York City Council overrode CB1s denial a year later. Another source of drama: A ton of the co-named streets are named for, well, the parents of CB1 and New York City Council members. That a number of people working in the New York City government are the children of past government officials, municipal workers, teachers, activists, and political leaders is no surprise but maybe they could spread the wealth, the argument goes. Often these co-names are meaningful tributes, like Flatbushs intersection East 45th Street and Farragut Road co-named with Marie Andree Bichotte, an activist and Hotel Trades Council union member who is also the mother of State Assemblymember and Brooklyn Democratic Party chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. But for every Bichotte, there is well, a Cuomo. Many travelers between New York and New Jersey are familiar with former Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge. Although maybe street co-names should be for civil servants: straight-forward, public-facing, and otherwise mired in bureaucratic nonsense. And if co-naming a street is meant to commemorate a great contribution to the neighborhood, what counts as great? In 2014, a grassroots petition to have the corner of Ludlow and Rivington co-named in honor of the Beastie Boys and the death of member Adam MCA Yauch (who had a park in Brooklyn dedicated to him the year before) failed to pass Community Board 3s vote due to overwhelming opposition to the application, according to Chairperson Gigi Li. The requirements for co-naming dictates an exceptional accomplishment worthy of highlight, but the Beastie Boys two Grammys didnt pass muster at the time. People also questioned whether or not the rappers had actually done anything for the neighborhood. But the Council can and does fall victim to the peer pressure of the people who wont leave them alone. The Beastie Boys co-naming, like Staff Sergeant Naughtons, was eventually passed after longtime fan LeRoy McCarthy took the petition to the New York City Council rather than back to CB3. At the time of its dedication, Beastie Boys member Adam Horovitz a.k.a. Ad Rock pointed out, well, how notable a street name is. If you walk around the streets you dont really think about who theyre named after, right? But it makes me really happy to know that some kid, on their way to school 50 years from now, is going to pass by this and look up and be, like, What the fuck is a Beastie Boy? Then there are the New York City officials who just dont like that we do this, who believe street co-naming is confusing and excessive. During Abolafias application hearing, committee member Ken Coughlin said, I typically abstain or vote against these. I predicted about ten years ago that eventually every corner would have a secondary street name, and maybe well have to start having drop-downs. Its one thing, having to explain to tourists on the subway that Avenue of the Americas and Sixth Avenue are the same thing; its another when a street pole becomes crowded with proper nouns. (I once lived on a co-named street where the name was absent from Google and Apple Maps and missing from the DORIS database but was always being said aloud on rideshare GPS settings, not to mention listed as the primary address on rental sites.) Perhaps doing away with street co-naming would get rid of the drama and bureaucracy, achieving the otherwise unachievable: making it so that each New Yorker is as unremarkable as their neighbor. But also maybe it makes sense that we cant agree on how to name our streets. The street is, conceptually, a mixed bag if there ever was one. On the street, you might see a friend or meet a nice dog. You also might get a parking ticket or side-swiped. Someone might drive along and splash a big puddle of water onto you like in a movie. A playground thats a good place. A school no one can deny its public benefits. A street eh if someone wants one, why not let them have it? It's not every year that the local fine arts scene makes this many headlines. There was notable turnover of executive-level staff in the performing arts sector; Houston Symphony, Houston Grand Opera and Alley Theatre each said goodbye to familiar, tenured faces. Hurricane Beryl temporarily closed a number of Museum District institutions, including the Rothko Chapel. The Washington Post named the Menil Collection and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston two of the country's best; meanwhile, Houston Ballet honored one of their own in a big way. From record-shattering fundraisers to welcome new hires, here's the news you should know from Houston's fine arts community ahead of 2025. 1. MFAH's record $5.5 million centennial Grand Gala Ball The Museum of Fine Arts Houstons Grand Gala Ball 2024 Dave Rossman/Contributor The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston celebrated its centennial anniversary in October with an Art Deco-themed Grand Gala Ball that raised a record $5.5 million. The event, chaired by life trustees, raised $2.5 million before the doors even opened. Then Nancy and Rich Kinder gave the museum another $1 million. Before the first course, it was announced that longtime museum supporter J. Venn Leeds had established a $2 million Jan and J. Venn Leeds Grand Gala Ball Operating Endowment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 2. Dean Gladden retires from Alley Theatre after nearly 20 years Dean Gladden Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle Dean Gladden, managing director of the Tony Award-winning Alley Theatre for nearly 20 years, announced his retirement in October. His tenure will end at the close of the 2025 fiscal year, on June 30. Management Consultants for the Arts has begun a nationwide search for his successor. A new managing director is expected to assume the role by July 1. Under his leadership, the Alley has produced more than 200 plays, attracted more than 3 million people to the Theater District in downtown Houston, and completed the $56.5 million renovation of the Meredith J. Long Center. 3. Washington Post names MFAH, Menil best art museums in the U.S. The Menil Collection lobby Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer The Washington Post published an article titled 'The 20 Best Art Museums in America' in October with MFAH listed at no. 6. The Washington Post concurrently published an another article listing the "10 Best Small Art Museums in America," which included the Menil Collection. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 4. Houston Ballet honors Lauren Anderson, one of the first Black ballerinas Lauren Anderson, center, with Julie Kent and Stanton Welch Dave Rossman/Contributor Houston Ballet's Opening Night Onstage Dinner chaired by Mignon and Steve Gill and Fady Armanious and Bill Baldwin, raised a record $325,000, and honored Lauren Anderson. "She is the epitome of grace, compassion and power," Jim Nelson, Houston Ballet executive director and chief executive, said of Anderson. "She joined Houston Ballet at age 7 and danced for 23 years. In 2007, she joined the education (and community engagement) department. There are countless scholarships, funds and programs all named after her. In 2023, she celebrated her 40th anniversary with Houston Ballet." 5. Patrick Summers steps down from HGO after 25 years Patrick Summers Dave Rossman/Contributor Patrick Summers, longtime artistic and music director of Houston Grand Opera, is bidding adieu to the performing arts organization after more than 25 years. He will step down from his post during the spring of 2026; at the close of the 2025-2026 season, he will transition to the role of music director emeritus and holder of the Robert and Jane Cizik Music Director Emeritus Chair. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In his future position, Summers will serve as an advisor, scholar and guest conductor of the company. 6. Jones Hall's $60 million transformation, first major renovation since 1966 New panels on the main stage of Jones Hall as part of a $60 million renovation. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer The $60 million project to improve Jones Hall's acoustics and overall visitor experience marks the first major renovation in the building's history. It's also the first time that spaces will be named for leaders other than Jesse H. Jones. Houston transplants Nancy and Charles Davidson contributed the lead gift of $12.5 million. Margaret Alkek Williams Grand Lobby is named for the philanthropist and longtime Houston Symphony supporter who committed $5 million. The stage has been named to honor the Brown Foundations $5 million gift 7. Rothko Chapel closed, reopens after damage from Hurricane Beryl Barnett Newmans Broken Obelisk in the reflecting pool of The Rothko Chapel Karen Warren/Staff photographer The Rothko Chapel closed in July when Hurricane Beryl caused leakage through the roof, in addition to water damage to a portion of the ceiling and several walls. The panels of four Mark Rothko paintings were also affected. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Chapel reopened in December. Costs of repairs were $24,300 for the Chapel; $3,000 for landscaping; and $33,600 for the office. 8. John Mangum departs Houston Symphony for Lyric Opera of Chicago John Mangum Houston Symphony / Houston Symphony John Mangum, executive director, CEO and Margaret Alkek Williams Chair of the Houston Symphony, accepted the position of general director, president and CEO for Lyric Opera of Chicago, in July. He joined the Houston Symphony in 2018 and remained in the role through September. Mangum led the organization through obstacles such as Hurricane Harvey and COVID-19. Under his leadership, current music director Juraj Valcuha and concertmaster Yoonshin Song were hired to succeed music director laureate Andres Orozco-Estrada and concertmaster Frank Huang. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 9. Houston Center for Photography The Houston Center for Photography announced in November its plans to move from W. Alabama by 2026. The non-profit organization has been in its current location since 1984. HCP shared that is is "actively seeking a new home, whether lease or purchase" via statement. In the interim, the organization hopes to create a strategic plan and launch a capital campaign in addition to gathering input from surrounding communities. 10. The sudden death of longtime Montrose gallery owner Anya Tish Anya Tish Anya Tish Gallery Anya Tish, longtime owner of the eponymous gallery in Montrose, died in June in her hometown of Krakow, Poland, according to a statement released by the Anya Tish Gallery. Mark Tish, her husband of 50 years, was by her side. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Since opening in 1996, the Anya Tish Gallery has been a familiar destination for art lovers, from its inaugural location on Sunset Boulevard to its current outpost at 4411 Montrose. Tishs emphasis on global works that address social and environmental issues attracted an international following within Houstons notably diverse, creative community. 11. Blaffer Art Museum names Laura Augusta as new director and chief curator Blaffer Art Museum's new Jane Dale Owen Director and Chief Curator Laura Augusta Courtesy of Blaffer Art Museum The Blaffer Art Museum at the University of Houston named Laura Augusta as its next Jane Dale Owen Director and Chief Curator in October. Her predecessor, Steven Matijcio, departed the role earlier this year. Augusta has strong Houston ties. She was previously a core fellow at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston from 2016 and has worked in various positions with FotoFest, Ayers & Bacino Gallery, and the Glassell School of Art. 12. Contemporary Art Museum Houston shuffle CAMH co-directors Ryan N. Dennis and Melissa McDonnell Lujan Courtesy of Contemporary Art Museum Houston Contemporary Arts Museum Houston announced the appointment of co-directors Ryan N. Dennis and Melissa McDonnell Lujan in December. The museum's current executive director, Hesse McGraw, will depart the post at the end of 2024. Dennis previously served as CAMH's senior curator and director of public initiatives. Lujan previously held the position of deputy director. 13. Jim Nelson announces retirement after 40 years with Houston Ballet Jim Nelson Dave Rossman/Contributor Houston Ballet's chief executive, Jim Nelson, announced his retirement in September. Nelson has served as executive director since 2012. He will depart the role in 2026 after 40 years with the professional dance company. He previously trained with Houston Ballet Academy before beginning his 11-year performing career with Cincinnati Ballet, Houston Ballet and Ballet de Santiago in Chile. While completing his academic studies, Nelson re-joined Houston Ballet as company manager and later became its general manager. Kids can celebrate New Year's with a Spanish custom, a champagne flute filled with 12 grapes, one to eat for each chime at midnight. LARRY CROWE/AP A celebrant toasts with a glass with 12 grapes as people gather at Madrid's Puerta del Sol to celebrate and eat the traditional 12 grapes in a festive rehearsal known as the "pre uvas" before the new year 2024 begins. Marcos del Mazo/LightRocket via Getty Images New Year's fireworks in Houston. franckreporter / Getty Images From burning effigies to throwing a bucket of water out of the window, here are a few of the many ways some Latinos across the world like to ring in the new year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Eating 12 grapes at midnight Perhaps the most popular New Years Eve tradition in Spanish-speaking countries and for Hispanic Americans is eating 12 grapes (each symbolizing the coming 12 months) as the clock strikes midnight. This is said to bring good fortune in the year ahead. How quickly youre supposed to eat the grapes can vary by culture. (Please dont choke.) Burning anos viejos Families in Ecuador and parts of Colombia create effigies or dolls called anos viejos (old years) that sometimes represent politicians, celebrities or personal struggles from the past year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad These are burned at midnight to symbolically leave behind the passing year and make space for a fresh start. Walking around with luggage Popular among Colombians, Mexicans and Venezuelans, walking around the block or the house with an empty suitcase symbolizes a wish for travel and adventure in the new year. Sometimes, observers of this tradition will pack their suitcases with items representing the kind of travels they hope for. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wearing colorful underwear According to this widespread Latin American tradition, the color of the undergarments you wear on New Years Eve is believed to influence your year. I was taught that wearing red is for love in the new year, yellow is for wealth, green is for health and white is for peace. But what a given color symbolizes can vary, so do your research! Cleaning, sweeping Sweeping your home thoroughly on New Years Eve or even tossing a bucket of water out the door is said to remove negativity and bad vibes from the past year and bring good energy for the new one. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lentils Lentils, while also delicious, are considered a symbol of abundance and wealth in some Latin American countries. Some people scatter raw lentils around their home, keep them in their pockets or eat them in a New Years dish to invite prosperity. AROUND HOUSTON: New residential developments coming to Houston in 2025 and beyond Throwing coins People in countries like Mexico and Peru toss coins outside their doors or into the street at midnight on New Years to invite financial fortune into their lives. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Variations of this tradition include carrying coins in your pockets or placing them in your shoes to ensure wealth throughout the year. Lighting candles Lighting candles in colors that represent personal wishes is common in some Latino households. One June evening in 1943, a young US serviceman tried to order a beer in a Lancashire village pub called Ye Olde Hob Inn and all hell broke loose. For the soldier, Private Eugene Nunn, was black. This was not a problem for the locals, of course. Only for the white American troops who objected to their African-American comrades drinking alongside them. When villagers in Bamber Bridge realised this, they hung a mocking sign over the pub doorway. Reading 'Black Troops Only', it was a very British two fingers to the segregation common in the US Army in World War II. American military police didn't share the Lancashire sense of humour, however. After a failed attempt to arrest Private Nunn on trumped-up charges, fighting broke out at the nearby army base and one soldier was shot dead. I've long thought this story, the so-called 'Battle of Bamber Bridge', should be taught in every British school. This is the perfect parable of how tolerance, anti-racism and a readiness to laugh at bigots have always run deep in our national psyche. But it should also stand as a warning. We must never fall prey to America's long and dangerous history of hostility between white and black. Yet Labour's Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson appears eager to do exactly that. This week she signalled her intention to 'diversify' lessons in all state schools with some unions suggesting this could apply particularly to 'white majority' classrooms. Labour's Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson this week signalled her intention to 'diversify' lessons in all state schools In the words of the teachers' union NASUWT, this means imposing an 'inclusive curriculum that reflects diverse authors, cultures and perspectives'. This woke agenda is based on critical race theory, an American educational practice that emphasises the differences and antipathy between white and black pupils. It sounds to me disturbingly like the start of a Left-wing call for young white people in Britain to be culturally re-educated in other words, brainwashed into thinking this country's history is something of which they should be ashamed. The NASUWT is calling for 'embedded anti-racist and decolonised approaches,' while the Association of School and College Leaders has attacked the current teaching of English and history as 'largely mono-cultural' with an inadequate emphasis on 'ethnicity and sexual orientation'. The National Association of Head Teachers wants to see the use of 'diverse reading material' to 'subvert racial biases', especially when 'teaching to a white majority classroom'. The demands were directed earlier this year to a review panel headed by Professor Becky Francis of University College London, who had criticised Tony Blair's government for its 'obsession with academic achievement'. Britain, the country that pioneered free universal schooling 150 years ago, has an education system that continues to command international respect. Pupils have an opportunity to learn the critical thinking skills that enable them to interpret and analyse society, and dream up ways to make it better. Decolonising the curriculum means diverting the emphasis from magnificent achievements such as the signing of the Magna Carta, establishing the Westminster model of parliamentary democracy, and birthing the Industrial Revolution. Will decolonising the curriculum mean ignoring the example of white male scientists such as Alexander Fleming, asks Rakib Ehsan Will it lead to the downplaying of white male writers and composers such as Shakespeare, Dickens, Keats and Elgar and ignoring the example of white male scientists such as Alexander Graham Bell and Alexander Fleming? Will it trivialise the courage of British leaders who defeated tyrants white men like the Duke of Wellington and Winston Churchill as well as the humanitarian endeavours of the likes of William Wilberforce? There can be only one purpose for distancing British schoolchildren from their history and heritage and that is to turn them against their own national identity. This will affect all pupils in state education, including those at academies and free schools which have thrived on following their own ideals. To abandon our national heritage would be an act of incalculable cultural vandalism. By fostering uncritical views on multiculturalism and so-called 'diversity' (which is often a cover for anti-white racism), Britain's classrooms will become vehicles for indoctrination. Already, many great British writers such as Rudyard Kipling and Daniel Defoe have been cancelled, while teaching the classics is regarded as elitist and therefore wrong for all. This month, Phillipson announced an end to funding for the teaching of Latin in state schools, while Exeter University is encouraging its students to 'leave the classroom' and 'contact wellbeing services' if they feel distressed at subject matter in Homer's 4,000-year-old poems The Iliad and The Odyssey. Clearly, Labour wants to pressure young people into subscribing to the multicultural ideology which prevails in the modern British state. Doing that to the exclusion of national pride and tradition would be hugely dangerous. If we only celebrate cultural differences, we will water down all sense of commonality and wipe away the things that unite us. Earlier this year, I authored a report for the Policy Exchange think-tank called Portrait Of Modern Britain: Ethnicity And Religion. This found the majority of ethnic minorities including those with black African and Chinese heritage believe Britain has historically been a force for good in the world and that children should feel proud of its history. A general population survey found 60 per cent of people believe that, throughout history, Britain has generally been a force for good. Meanwhile 72 per cent thought it right that children raised in Britain should learn to be proud of their heritage instead of suffering an over-reliance on imported often American notions of race and racial conflict. Labour's shameful plans fly in the face of those views. This curriculum is little more than a reflection of state ideology, revealing the Education Secretary to be completely under the control of Left-wing union activists. There is a real danger all this wokeness will be used as a cover for doing away with academic achievement altogether. When maths and science are depicted as colonial disciplines, unwholesomely preoccupied with facts and data, education will lose much of its value and relevance to real life. Our schools are not perfect, but they have a proven track record in helping young people identify and train for their futures. There is room for improvement, but it remains a system that is envied around the globe. Labour has a golden opportunity to build on that heritage,by encouraging schools to highlight Britain's long tradition of tolerance and respect for human rights. We shouldn't be echoing American resentments over their grim history of slavery, for example we ought instead to be teaching about the 1862 Manchester Mill Workers' Revolt, when factory hands refused to work with cotton picked by US slaves. The UK has a major role to play in the global science and technological sectors including aerospace, motoring and pharmaceuticals. Instead of forcing so-called 'progressive' views on the young, we should strive to have an education system which inspires them to be ambitious, maximise their potential, and strengthen Britain's global standing. The curiosity and enterprise of our young must not be sacrificed by the indoctrinators of the modern Left and their warped view of British history. Dr Rakib Ehsan is the author of Beyond Grievance. It seems to me that 2024 was an annus horribilis for the Royal Family - but, one hopes, not the monarchy. It was horrible that three of the best-loved royals our King, our Queen and the Princess of Wales fell ill. But their illnesses only sharpened our sense of how much they and, by extension, the institution they serve are valued. During the final years of Queen Elizabeths reign, there were many who feared Charles would lack his mothers firmness of touch when he became King that his idiosyncrasies would prevent him from being a successful monarch and that his notorious thin skin would hide his loveable qualities. Remember the headlines, His Nibs, when he signed the deed which made him King at the Accession ceremony and lost his rag with the splodgy pen? But the gainsayers me included were wrong. Charles clearly relished his new role and he has fulfilled it with dignity, grace and aplomb. His wife Camilla has been a down-to-earth and humorous presence, keeping him from making any gaffes. Indeed, for the first year of Charless reign, it looked as if the British monarchy had never been in a stronger position. The Coronation in May 2023 was broadcast to millions around the world and proved to be much more than a splash of pageantry and religious ritual. This was a demonstration to other countries that, however excellent their constitutions and ways of life, there was something special about our British monarchy. King Charles III holds up flowers he was given after a visit to University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in April The Princess of Wales reveals that she is undergoing cancer treatment in a video released in March But, within months, there was bad news. In February we learned that the King had cancer. Then it emerged that Princess Catherine was also having cancer treatment. And, in the latter months of 2024, Queen Camilla revealed that she, too, had been suffering from pneumonia a highly dangerous disease from which it takes months to recover. In spite of their age and vulnerability, the King and Queen visited Australia in October and put up as robust a defence of the monarchy as they could. It was impossible not to feel sorry for them having to endure that embarrassing week when, despite displays of loyalty by many Australians, the couple almost seemed to be there on sufferance. When an Aboriginal member of Parliament bellowed her nations grievances at King Charles, it prompted many to ask themselves: How long before this voice of Republicanism becomes as strong back in the United Kingdom? That premonition seemed to come true just weeks later when Prince William was heckled with the chant Free Palestine during a visit to Northern Ireland as if he were to blame for the tragic situation in the Middle East. Such an outburst in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II would have been unthinkable. 'How long?', the Republicans must gleefully have wondered how long? At present, Republicanism is not popular. But there are signs the movement is gathering strength. One of the most damaging arguments against the House of Windsor is its personal wealth and the way it is exercised which was put under stark scrutiny this autumn. A joint investigation by Channel 4's Dispatches and The Sunday Times revealed some of the ways in which Prince William and his father have accrued truly vast sums of money through the Duchies of Cornwall and Lancaster. Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William and Princess Catherine pose for a photograph ahead of the Diplomatic Reception in the 1844 Room at Buckingham Palace in 2023 A warehouse where ambulances are stored for the NHS was shown to be paying great rents direct to the duchies, along with charities that are sponsored by Prince William or other members of the Royal Family themselves. The huge personal wealth of the Windsors is not a problem while they are popular and continue to believe in the constitution they sustain. But it is undeniably an embarrassment. Even the most fervent monarchist cannot really believe that the vast revenues from the duchies should be regarded as the royals private money. It isnt their money, is it? Not in the way that your wage packet or salary is yours. Prince William has long strived to prove he is a modern royal. Last year, for example, it was reported that he saw no reason why his son George should unless he chose be a member of the Church of England or serve in the Armed Forces. Thats fine. We can all see that William is a very different person from his father. He has described it himself as being royal without a capital R. All of this works perfectly well, so long as the popular members of the Royal Family are in robust health and the monarchy continues to be stable. But when the King, Queen Camilla and Princess Catherine were taken out of the picture through illness this year, we were forced to imagine what the monarchy would look like without them. The vision, certainly, was a bare one. Princess Anne remained the hardest-working royal this year despite taking some time off in the summer when she was kicked in the head by a horse. But what of the other royals and younger members of the family? What are they doing to bolster those crucial connections with the country? To put it another way: What is the point of royalty if it is not spelt with a capital R? If the men and women who are serving this country do not feel a deep sense of kinship with the monarch a kinship that is meaningless unless he or she can wear a uniform on public occasions have we not lost one of the essential building blocks of what makes the royals royal? If as seems increasingly possible the Church of England is disestablished and the monarch is no longer required to belong to it, another deep link with the past is removed. As James I once tetchily exclaimed to the Puritans who wanted to abolish bishops: Thus I take it, no bishop, no king! Sir Keir Starmers Government plans to remove the last hereditary peers from the Lords. You can see why. In todays climate, how can the hereditary principle be defended? But, if you apply that argument to the non-elected members of our Second Chamber, surely it also applies to the monarch? Why should someone be our head of state simply because they have inherited the role? It was reported that Prince William saw no reason why his son George should unless he chose be a member of the Church of England or serve in the Armed Forces The Prince of Wales, Prince Louis, Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince George, the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte are seen following the Christmas Day morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, Norfolk last week The answer would once have been: Because of the link with the Church. But Charles will surely be the last English monarch who takes that link seriously, and William is not even especially religious. Another answer is because of the link with the Armed Forces. But, as referenced, William has suggested he does not think even that would continue when George grows up. Abolish those two ingredients church and military along with the hereditary principle in political life, and the monarchy starts to look vulnerable. It is straying perilously close to being just a group of celebrities, like the Beckhams or Elon Musk. If that is all they are, then the end sooner or later will come. The burden of all this is on the shoulders of Prince William and his wife. They are the ones who have to carry the institution forward into new generations, for the sakes of their children and the majority of Britons who wish them all the very best. That burden is particularly heavy on William as the shadow of Catherines illness continues to loom. We can only pray she makes a full recovery, for the prospect of her absence from royal engagements however short-term heaps further pressure on Williams already mighty task. As we enter a new year, we fervently hope it wont be another annus horribilis. Like many precious things, the monarchy is vulnerable far more so than we would like to believe. A diabetic woman has claimed she almost died from an eating disorder after doctors mistook her insulin misuse for 'laziness'. April Longe, 19, from Colchester, developed diabulimia - an eating disorder which affects people with type 1 diabetes - as a teenager when she deliberately reduced her insulin intake to lose weight. Her doctors originally thought she was simply forgetting to inject her insulin before she was finally admitted to hospital. She spent 11 months recovering and is now passionate about raising awareness and wants to see diabulimia recognised as an official disorder. April, a psychology student at the University of Essex, said: 'I could have died. I'm very grateful that I didn't. It was sad it had to get to the point that it got.' The teenager was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged five and began to struggle with an eating disorder when she moved over to the UK from America aged 13. After collapsing from low blood sugar a paramedic questioned if she was injecting her insulin correctly. It was then April realised she could reduce her intake to lose weight. She said: 'I thought I can eat what I want but get as skinny as possible. It became an addiction.' April Longe, 19, from Colchester, almost died from the 'world's most dangerous eating disorder' after doctors mistook her insulin misuse for 'laziness' April ate what she wanted to get her blood sugars high but stopped injecting her insulin. The teen ended up in and out of hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) - a life-threatening complication with diabetes when the body breaks down fat instead of using blood sugar. But doctors put down these complications with insulin misuse to laziness. April said: 'They put it down to me being lazy and a teenager.' April got so bad she couldn't stand up properly, was very weak and pale and ended up admitted to hospital. There she admitted to doctors she had a fear of injecting herself with insulin. She said: 'I was really scared of insulin. The idea of giving it to myself made me feel like a failure. They asked ''why don't you want to inject?'' I said I had a fear of insulin and I didn't want to gain weight.' April was referred to the eating disorder services and spent a month in hospital before being discharged. However she remained under observation as an outpatient and, over the years, was in and out of hospital with relapses. In May 2022 April's CAMHS nurse became concerned about her condition, and the 19-year-old was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. Recalling the hospital stint, April said she 'nearly died'. April developed an eating disorder known as diabulimia as a teenager. The condition sees people with type 1 diabetes deliberately reduce their insulin intake to lose weight April spent 11 months in total in hospital and came home in April 2023 After collapsing from low blood sugar a paramedic questioned if she was injecting her insulin correctly Now recovered April is passionate about raising awareness for diabulimia - which is currently not recognised as an official disorder April was moved to a psychiatric hospital in September 2022 and once she moved to the intensive care ward she started to improve. Her nurse was also type 1 diabetic which helped April understand what she was going through. She said: 'Someone finally understood what I was going through. I started to understand myself. I realised I could lose my sight, I could be really ill.' April spent 11 months in total in hospital and came home in April 2023. Now recovered, April is passionate about raising awareness for diabulimia - which is currently not recognised as an official disorder. April said: 'I would like health care professionals to look out for the signs. So many lose their lives to it. It needs more awareness.' She is now petitioning for diabulimia to become a recognised eating disorder. Landing on November 28th, the number of days between Thanksgiving and Christmas were fewer this year. Because of this, New Year's Eve has snuck up on us. If you've found yourself with last minute plans but not enough time to buy a new outfit, don't fret! There are quick and easy ways to make what's already hanging in your closet look and feel more festive. To do so, you want to embrace what holiday dressing is all about: a little extra sparkle, glamour, or elegance. New Year's Eve symbolizes new beginnings, a clean slate, and optimism, so it's important to start the new year looking and feeling your best. No matter how you're celebrating - whether it's bar-hopping, a cozy night in, or an elegant dinner at a top rated restaurant - dressing up makes the occasion extra special. From slipping into a red shoe to applying shimmery makeup, Daily Mail reveals simple ways to elevate your style to suit any kind of plan. A swipe of bold lipstick will make any ensemble look polished with little-to-no extra effort Makeup magic Makeup is a simple and effective way to make your outfit look party ready. Does your uniform consist of all-black separates? No problem! Just swipe on a bold red lip and you'll instantly look more polished with little-to-no extra effort. For instant party glam, add a little sparkle and shine to your eyes. Glitter eye-shadow mimics the twinkling lights of a disco ball, particularly when used in shades like gold, silver, or copper. When creating a glitter eye makeup look, Elyse Reneau, Executive Director of Global Beauty at Too Faced Cosmetics reveals the correct order in which to apply product. To avoid making a mess, the expert suggests starting with the eyes. 'It doesnt matter if it gets all over the place because you can clean it up without worrying about your foundation,' she says. In other words, it's easier to wipe up glitter fallout on bare skin - as opposed to trying to get it off without ruining your perfectly applied base makeup (which is near impossible!). Elyse recommends priming the lid with a primer like Too Faces Cosmetics' Shadow Insurance, saying 'It gives the glitter something to adhere to - it's your very own glitter insurance policy! 'Glitter should be applied with your fingers, not a brush. It should be pressed into the lids, not swiped,' she reveals. The fun look aligns with the festive spirit but if you're not as daring, a glitter topcoat on your nails will also do the trick. A gem-encrusted headband or a sequin barrette, like the one Elle Fanning wears, can make simple separates feel New Year's Eve ready The Great Gatsby x MOTF diamond gloves by Shein, $8.25; shein.com The Great Gatsby x MOTF pearl embroidered bag by Shein, $23.99; shein.com Disco Crush High Shine Glitter Eye + Face Sparkle by Too Faced, $30; sephora.com Elle Mule Crystal In Scarlet Suede by Larroude, $375; larroude.com Sequin vest by Zara, now $65.40; zara.com Knotted Crystal Crosshatch Denim Headband by Lele Sadoughi, $195; neimanmarcus.com Add sparkle wherever you can Statement jewelry is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make an outfit instantly more festive. Even a simple look - like an LBD- can feel celebratory with the right accessories. Eye-catching earrings like chandeliers, large hoops, and rhinestone studs can draw attention to your face, while a sizable, sparkly necklace adds glamour. Multiple necklaces in varying lengths is a trendy way to create visual interest and up the glam factor. If a white button-down blouse and jeans are your only outfit option, it's ok! Just slip a stack of metallic bracelets on your wrists or a few bold cocktail rings featuring glittering stones on your fingers and you are good to go! Don't be afraid to pile on more baubles than usual - the more the merrier on NYE! Hair adornment also goes a long way. A gem-encrusted headband or a sequin barrette can make any outfit New Years ready! Feeling adventurous? Gloves give leading lady energy. A red shoe adds a festive touch to any outfit and the warm shade symbolizes good luck and prosperity in many cultures, making it an ideal choice for December 31st Reach for festive touches Sequins are synonymous with celebration. It's ok to wear basic black slacks on NYE but you want to pair them with a sequin separate in the form of a blazer, vest, or cardigan. NYE is the perfect excuse to step up from the everyday and make a statement. Switch out your everyday handbag for something more jubilant like a pearl-encrusted clutch. Save your go-to black pumps for another night, and instead, slip into a pair of shoes worthy of the occasion, like a red pump. Red symbolizes good luck and prosperity in many cultures, making it an ideal choice for new years. They look best with black, a la Kendall Jenner, white or cream to really pop. Attractive people - don't you just hate them? I kid, I kid. But it's safe to say, when God was handing out attractive genes, he sure favoured some over others. And I've always thought these genetically blessed types were given, quite frankly, an unfair advantage in life. They're often led to the front of the queues at nightclubs, let off driving fines, and given favourable treatment pretty much everywhere they go. But then, last year, I was walking with a ridiculously hot friend to join the long bar queue in a packed pub when something happened that was so shocking that it challenged every single belief I had about so-called 'pretty privilege'. There was a group of older, slightly drunk men propping up the bar. We're talking late 40s, early 50s, wearing tight jeans in an attempt to look young and fun. (Spoiler alert: they didn't. It was giving 'divorced dads back on the scene.') It was clear these guys were out to have a good time and when they clocked my girlfriend - who is gorgeous, did I mention that? - they morphed into rabid dogs. Annoyingly, we had to walk past them to get to the bar when the shortest of the 'gents' reached out and felt her up while creepily telling her to 'come sit at our table, love'. I'm not talking a slimy brush of his hand, I'm talking both hands rubbing up and down her sides, from under her shoulders to her thighs, before lingering on her chest. We both froze. She tried to laugh it off and move past him, but I saw red. I couldn't believe what I had just witnessed. It was 2024, and here was a creep treating her body like a piece of meat. I raised my voice as loud as I could and said, 'GET YOUR F***ING HANDS OFF HER, YOU SEEDY CREEP!' He looked like his eyes were about to pop out of his head. Then he turned to his mates and they all laughed. I could have screamed. I have a theory that pretty people have it tougher in the dating world. Now, hear me out... plenty of singletons have shared their dating woes with me, and it makes for fascinating reading We went to the bar, and my friend looked devastated. I ranted on about it not being okay and how I hadn't witnessed brazen behaviour like that since the '90s. Then I asked, 'Do men really think it's still okay to treat women like that?' She sighed. It happens all the time, she said. Often in public, and especially when there is alcohol involved. I was speechless. That was months ago, but I still think about that night. Being beautiful might win you attention, but does it actually help you find a good guy? The crazy thing is, I've watched this woman struggle in the love department, and it turns out it's because her good looks either scare people off, or it's just the creepy drunks with over-inflated egos who are bold enough to have a crack. It really got me pondering... sure, attractive people get plenty of little perks in life, but when it comes to dating, is beauty a disadvantage? Another one of my friends is a 6ft tall former model with a wicked sense of humour. But over the years, I've seen her be reduced to nothing but arm candy to men who love to show her off like a plaything, but never truly appreciate her personality. Not so long ago, she finally settled for a normal-looking farmer who just adored her, and guess what he broke up with her because he was jealous of the attention she got from other men when they went out. So, I asked other attractive people to share their dating horror stories with me, and my inbox provided some very interesting accounts Sure, attractive people get plenty of little perks in life, writes Jana, but when it comes to dating, is beauty a disadvantage? (stock photo posed by model) Lucas: Too hot to be taken seriously Lucas, a 32-year-old personal trainer, is ridiculously hot. Seriously, when he slid into my DMs, my first thought was 'jackpot!' He has one of those chiselled jawlines, piercing green eyes, and a gym-sculpted physique. He says women often compliment him but rarely stay around long enough to truly get to know him. Lucas tells me that on a second date with someone he genuinely liked, she admitted after a few drinks, 'You're just too attractive that I can't help but wonder if you're a player. Guys like you probably have a ton of options.' Frustrated Lucas says he wants a real connection but finds his looks often make women question his intentions or doubt his sincerity. And I have to say, I've often been guilty of this. Liza: Too 'posh' to date Liza, a widow in her mid-50s with a highly paid job, tells me she rarely gets asked out because she's beautiful. 'I'm attractive, I make a lot of money, own a nice car, and have paid off my house in full. And yet, I rarely get asked out. And if I do? The judgment!' She says that in addition to being good-looking, she's been dismissed by men for being 'posh' and 'rich' (as if those are bad things!) and once had an 'ugly bastard' dare to criticise her for a stray lip hair. Despite her looks and success, Liza says her love life has been a complete flop. 'At this point, I'm resigned to staying single forever.' Jana spoke to several ridiculously good-looking men who have no luck with the ladies because they are automatically judged as 'players' or not ready to settle down (stock photo) Sofia: I thought I was classy, but men think I'm vain Sofia, a 35-year-old lawyer, is the epitome of sophistication. Even I was slightly intimidated by her Instagram page. Her striking features and impeccable style make her seem like someone who has been gifted not only good looks, but great taste - something that doesn't come naturally to many of us. Still, Sofia has noticed a pattern with the men she dates - they often treat her as if she's shallow or self-absorbed, which couldn't be further from the truth. On one occasion, a man she was seeing told her, 'I just thought you'd be more into fashion and selfies than deep conversations. You're surprisingly down-to-earth.' Sofia couldn't believe it. Why would her appearance make people assume she lacks depth or substance? It was only then, in her mid-thirties, that she realised her looks - something she'd always considered a blessing - were making it harder for her to build meaningful connections. Emma: Men don't even bother Emma, a 28-year-old marketing executive, is often told she looks like a supermodel (and I can confirm, she is indeed a looker). Her statuesque frame, super-straight white teeth and flawless olive skin mean she gets compliments wherever she goes. But Emma couldn't figure out why her dating life was non-existent, until one day, after a work event, a colleague drunkenly confessed, 'Honestly, you're so gorgeous it's intimidating. Guys think they don't have a chance with you.' 'This explains why I only ever seem to attract narcissists. Those with a superiority complex who think they are God's gift to women,' she says. Oh dear, we all know one (or two) of those types of blokes. Emma realised her beauty was creating a barrier she never intended. Potential suitors assume she is unapproachable or out of their league, so don't even bother to try. One solution is dressing down or making herself look plain, but Emma feels she's damned if she does, damned if she doesn't. A female lawyer in her 30s told Jana she was shocked to discover what men really think of her (stock photo posed by model) Alex: Mr Perfect always overlooked Alex, a 30-year-old architect, has a face and smile straight out of an American daytime soap opera. But despite his perfectly proportioned features, the guy can't get himself a date! A close female friend once told him, 'You're so good-looking that everyone assumes you're already taken or you'd never settle down.' Yes, he's been marked a 'Peter Pan'-in-training... just because of his looks! Alex tells me he often dwells on missed opportunities, and frequently notices women look at him but rarely approach him. Being handsome has made him seem so unavailable that he's almost at the point of walking around with an 'available' sign hanging around his neck. Sam*: A famous actor struggling on the apps Sam is a celebrity. I've changed his name for this article but, trust me, you've heard of him. He tells me that due to his his fame, he often cops a barrage of questions from sceptical women on dating apps, which is understandable the first couple of times, but soon becomes frustrating. 'Is that really you?' 'Why would you need to be on the apps?' 'How is someone like you not dating a model?' 'Why are you on Hinge?' These are just a few of the DMs he receives - and that's if he's lucky. If he's having a bad day, theyll just delete him or, worse, report him as a fake profile. He assures me that being a successful actor does not mean you date a roster of lingerie models. 'I'd be happy to date a real estate agent or a dentist. I'd just be happy to go for a cup of tea and a walk.' He adds that the only apps where celebrities don't get reported are the kinky ones like Feeld but says, 'I'm not into whips'. Now listen, I'm hardly getting out a violin for these horrendously attractive folk, but hearing their stories does put things into perspective. Is beauty really a blessing? And is complaining about being too beautiful the last taboo of modern romance? I'll leave you to decide - but I certainly won't be cancelling any Botox appointments. Prince Louis sent royal fans into hysterics with a 'Terry's Chocolate Orange' mishap during the Christmas church service at Sandringham. The royal, six, joined the Prince and Princess of Wales and his siblings at the Church of St Mary Magdalene last week. During the service, the Rev Canon Paul Williams worked the orange-flavoured chocolate into his sermon and asked if anyone knew the best way to approach the sweet treat. Calling on Prince Louis for assistance, the clergyman said: 'You have to tap it and unwrap it.' The vicar then explained that he had been gifted a Terry's Chocolate Orange, which he compared to a globe and can act as a reminder that Jesus came to earth for everyone. After struggling to separate the segments with a light tap, Prince Louis was told to 'just drop it'. The loud bang sent the hundreds of royal fans waiting outside the church - who could hear the sermon through the church's loud-speakers - into hysterics. The vicar then told everyone the chocolate could be shared, just like sharing the good news that Jesus had been born at Christmas time. Pictured: The royal, six, joined the Prince and Princess of Wales and his siblings at the Church of St Mary Magdalene last week What's more, Prince Louis already proudly revealed to the churchgoers that he had received a sweet treat on Christmas morning. When the Rev Canon Paul Williams asked if anyone had opened any sweets yet, Prince Louis reportedly called out: 'Marshmallows!' Luckily for Louis, the sweet treats didn't end there on Christmas Day. After the service ended, Prince Louis greeted the hundreds of royal fans who gathered on the Sandringham estate along with his family to give their well-wishes and a few gifts. The Prince and Princess of Wales' youngest child was pictured walking back towards Sandringham House with both Cadbury's and Lindt chocolate. In a sweet video on X, Prince Louis looked visibly excited by the presents he received from members of the public - as did his older brother George, who appeared to carry a large blue stuffed teddy bear and a sizeable box of chocolates in one hand. The trio - all suavely dressed in crisp white shirts, formal ties and navy-blue dress coats - were also joined by their sister Charlotte, who had also gathered some gifts of her own, including a pretty bouquet and chocolates. As they continued to move along, the enthusiastic crowd offered even more sweet treats, as well as hand-written notes and handshakes - the latter of which the future king appeared happy to oblige. During the Christmas service, the Rev Canon Paul Williams worked the orange-flavoured chocolate into his sermon and asked if anyone knew the best way to approach the sweet treat The Prince of Wales, 42, officially stepped into father mode as he greeted friendly well wishers He politely declined the extra chocolates and wished the givers a 'Merry Christmas' before departing with his family Princess Charlotte and Prince George also graciously accepted their presents, as they waved to the crowds while standing alongside their father However, William put his foot down when it came to the chocolates, declining two fans who tried to hand Louis even more goodies. 'No, no, you can't give all the chocolates! Definitely not. You've got to keep them for yourself as well' said William with a charming smile. Up until this point, Louis was stood behind his father - who himself was clutching a Disney stuffed toy and book - and moved forward in an apparent attempt to collect even more gifts. But after hearing his father's commands, the obedient prince stopped mid step and heeded instructions by placing his hand by his sides and staying put. Prince William, ensuring he didn't leave fans broken hearted, left them with sweet wishes before departing with his family. 'Merry Christmas!' he said. 'Have a lovely day!' The festive walkabout forms part of an annual custom adhered to by the Royal Family, and takes place after Church service on Christmas day; this time, senior members, including King Charles and Queen Camilla, greeted well wishers - laden with gifts - who began arriving outside the Church. George, 11, Charlotte, nine, and Louis, six, accompanied the Prince and Princess of Wales to St Mary Magdalene Church on the Norfolk Estate for the traditional outing Picture perfect! The Prince and Princess of Wales with their three children, Prince Louis, six, and Princess Charlotte, nine, with Prince George, 11, watching over his younger siblings In a sweet video from Christmas morning, a very happy Louis had his hands full of gifts before another well-wisher offered him a Father Christmas headband. The young prince accepted the headband, politely thanked the person who gifted it and returned to his father and siblings. Prince William, who was himself greeting well-wishers with enthusiasm, appeared amused by his youngest son's haul and said: 'You've got that as well'. But when the family started to move along the path, Louis appeared to struggle to keep hold of everything he had received. At that point, he returned to his father and sweetly asked: 'Papa, can you carry some?' Princess Charlotte and Prince George also graciously accepted their presents, as they waved to the crowds while standing alongside their father, Prince William. George, who will start secondary school next year, was twinning with his father, Prince William in a navy coat and matching trousers, while his younger sister wore a dark green coat that was almost identical to Kate's Alexander McQueen number. Princess Martha Louise of Norway has shut down rumours of a feud with her family as she revealed why she and Durek Verrett spent Christmas apart from them. The Norwegian royal, 53, married the American Sharman during a four-day extravaganza - which was documented exclusively by Hello magazine and Netflix - in the coastal town of Geiranger in August. The couple were introduced by friends in 2019 and have claimed to have known each other in a past life, specifically the days of ancient Egypt. However, Princess' new husband has become a controversial figure in Norway due to his pseudoscientific views, including cancer in children can be caused by 'being unhappy'. Although the Norwegian Royal Family showed their support for the couple by attending the wedding, Crown Prince Haakon previously admitted his brother-in-law has proven to be 'controversial' and that he feels 'responsible' for the future of the monarchy. Last week, Princess Martha Louise shut down any suggestion of a feud between her and her family and revealed they spent Christmas apart due to Durek's health. According to Se og Hr, the spiritual healer - who flits between describing himself as a 'third and sixth generation shaman' - was still struggling with 'severe kidney disease' in 2023. The couple claim he is still receiving dialysis. During a recent Instagram Live, Durek said he is 'waiting for friends to offer me a new kidney' - having reportedly previously raised $20,000 for his first kidney transplant surgery in 2012. Pictured: Princess Martha Louise of Norway with her new husband Shaman Durek and her three daughters Maud Angelica, 21, Leah Isadora, 19, and Emma Tallulah, 16 The royal shared four images alongside the announcement - beginning with one of her and Durek posing next to a snow-covered Christmas tree Explaining how she wanted to 'avoid any misunderstandings', the mother-of-three wrote on Instagram: 'Unfortunately, we cannot attend church today. 'Durek is in the hospital receiving dialysis, which he has to have 3 times a week, and today is one of those days. 'I am very ill, and cannot come because of that. Sad that we have to justify why we are not at church, so as not to create speculation that there is discord in the family, which there is not. 'We still love each other. Fortunately. We would have attended if we could. But it didnt work out this year. Merry Christmas!' The royal shared four images alongside the announcement - beginning with one of her and Durek posing next to a snow-covered Christmas tree. Along with a photo of them kissing and a selfie from a sunny getaway, the royal also posted an image of herself and Durek with her three daughters Maud Angelica, 21, Leah Isadora, 19, and Emma Tallulah, 16, whom she shared with her ex-husband Ari Behn. Earlier that day, Princess Martha-Louise paid tribute to her late husband - who took his own life on Christmas Day in 2019. Sharing photos of the author with his daughters, Martha-Louise wrote on Instagram: '5 years ago today, this happened. What we never thought would happen. Pictured: King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway with their son Crown Prince Haakon, his wife Princess Mette-Marit and their daughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra The Princess' new husband has become a controversial figure in Norway due to his pseudoscientific views, including cancer in children can be caused by 'being unhappy' Along with a photo of them kissing and a selfie from a sunny getaway, the royal also posted an image of herself and Durek with her three daughters Princess Martha Louise shut down any suggestion of a feud between her and her family and revealed they spent Christmas apart due to Durek's health Earlier that day, Princess Martha-Louise paid tribute to her late husband - who took his own life on Christmas Day in 2019 'Our dear Ari chose to leave life by himself. These have been difficult times, a big lesson in dealing with grief. 'But also nice moments where we remember all the good things we had together. Because grief is so diverse. And the worst time for all of us is Christmas [...] 'Right now, in the darkest time of the year, it is more important than ever to lend a hand. Be there for those who need it. 'I hope you dare to speak out if you are feeling heavy. So we can extend a hand to you. Because there is always hope.' Meanwhile, the official Instagram page for the Norwegian Royal Family posted a photo of King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway with their son Crown Prince Haakon, his wife Princess Mette-Marit and their daughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra to mark the festive season. Although Princess Martha Louise has denied any feuds in her own family, the newlyweds have publicly fallen out with Durek Verrett's estranged mother, who did not attend the wedding. One month before their nuptials, the couple sent a cease-and-desist letter to Veruschka Urquhart, with Durek explaining on Instagram how they believe their decision is 'the only remaining option for change'. Undated photo of Shaman Durek with his mother Veruschka Urquhart, who has given interviews to local media in recent months Norway's Princess Martha Louise and her fiance Durek Verrett (pictured together) have issued a cease-and-desist letter to his estranged 81-year-old mother and reportedly threatened legal action over her 'slander' and 'false statements' Official royal family photograph celebrating Crown Prince Haakon (Up 2nd L) 45th birthday with his family, while he poses beside Princess Martha Louise (Up L), Crown Princess Mette-Marit (Up C), Princess Ingrid Alexandra (2nd R), Maud Angelica Behn (R), (Bottom L-R) Prince Sverre Magnus, Queen Sonja and King Harald V, in July 2018 He said his mother has 'repeatedly slandered our characters through false statements showing a significant lack of care and love towards Martha, myself, and our respective families'. In interviews with celebrity magazine Se og Hr, Veruschka has labelled her son 'dangerous', alleging that he had 'brainwashed' the princess and that their family was not as wealthy as Durek has tried to make out. In a defiant Instagram post, Princess Martha Louise included comments from one of Durek's former classmates who insisted he was 'one of the richest kids' in their school. Accusing the publication of 'spreading lies', the royal wrote: 'This time they are repeating the lie that Durek was not from a wealthy family as a child [...], when the truth is that he grew up in a good neighbourhood, his mom left him at an early age and it was in reality his mom not having money, not him. 'She wasnt even around. Dureks fathers bankruptcy came after Durek moved out, so he was not affected by his fathers bankruptcy.' Martha Louise then proceeded to share photos of the Californian mansion Durek claims to have grown up in, which was listed for over $3m when it was last on the market. The controversial American Shaman who once claimed he came back from the dead and has been known to associate childhood cancers with unhappiness wed Martha Louise on August 31 The couple arrive at the government's party celebratation of Norway's Princess' 18th birthday at Deichman Bjoervika Although Durek has claimed he had his first spiritual experience at four years old, it was 'coming back to from the dead' in 2002 that 'strengthened' his powers and 'devotion to Spirit'. 'I already identified with being Shaman Durek, but it became more clear when I came back from dying,' he explained. It's believed he's referring to a medical emergency that occurred in 2002, although reports of when the incident actually happened vary. His own book says he was 27, a new interview with Hello! ahead of his wedding puts him at 28, in a video on his Facebook page he says he was 29, while another interview suggested he was 30-years-old. 'I woke up in the middle of the night to find a spirit sitting on top of me, reaching into my body. The next thing I knew, I was strapped to a gurney in an ambulance with my friend Marcus sitting next to me, looking all kinds of freaked out,' he said in his book. By his own account, he suffered seven seizures on the way to hospital and his organs started shutting down. He was clinically dead for four minutes before being revived. 'My dead grandmother appeared in the hospital room and told me to relax into the pain and to let death take me, he explained. The couple were introduced by friends in 2019 and have claimed to have known each other in a past life , specifically from the days of ancient Egypt Princess Martha Louise and Ari Behn married in 2002 and have three children together Maud Angelica, Leah Isadora and Emma Tallulah In November 2022, Princess Martha announced she was stepping down as a senior member of the Royal Family in a move labelled 'Norway's Megxit'. This September, Princess Martha Louise sat down with Anna Hedenmo on Min Sanning - which translates to My Truth - and said she felt she needed to step back because of public image. She said: 'I am probably the one in Norway who has received the most criticism of all, I think.' Elsewhere in the television special, the mother touched on how her ex-husband Ari Behn - who took his own life in December 2019 - handled being in the spotlight. Following their wedding in 2002, the royal said the father of her three children - who made a name for himself as an author -said he didn't receive good reviews of his work. She added: 'His mental health depended a lot on him getting criticism in the media. But I am not saying it was anyone's fault. It is always how you handle criticism. 'The press took self-criticism after he died, that they were perhaps a little harsh towards him, and that he only received criticism and was actually a very nice person.' In June 2022, the newly-engaged couple appeared in a video together on Durek's Instagram account where the American spiritual guide - whose celebrity clients have included Gwyneth Paltrow, Nina Dobrev and James Van Der Beek - hit back at online trolling they've faced. He said: 'One, they don't want to see a black man in the Royal Family because there's never been one in the history of the European royal family. 'Second, she's a female - it's different when a royal prince chooses a woman of colour because it's like, "oh he's a man, he can choose whoever he wants". 'But for a princess to choose a man of colour, has never been done in history. So it's really though for a lot of people to be able to handle that.' Matilda Djerf has been slammed over a 'disrespectful' Instagram post after being accused of inflicting 'psychological terror' on employees. The influencer, 27, from Boras, Sweden, founded the clothing company Djerf Avenue, which made $35m in revenue last year, with her long-term boyfriend Rasmus Johansson in 2019. Despite the brand's focus on inclusivity and sustainability, an investigation by Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet earlier this month revealed Matilda's management style left her employees feeling 'broken'. 11 current and former Djerf Avenue employees revealed the stressful work environment left them with sleep issues while others said they even sought psychological help. Elsewhere in the investigation, Matilda, who made the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2023, was accused of complaining a plus-size model looked 'too f***ing fat' in the brand's clothes - and refused to put the images on the Djerf Avenue website. What's more, another employee alleged that Matilda had a specific toilet in her office that was reserved for her 'favorite' colleagues - and demanded it be scrubbed clean by a worker who used it in error. Five days after the investigation was published, the influencer, who has lost 200,000 followers as a result, posted a grovelling apology online - where she insisted she was 'genuinely sorry' and said she had been under a 'lot of stress'. Two and a half weeks on from the scandal, Matilda has shared a series of images from her Christmas break - which critics claimed is 'disrespectful'. Pictured: Influencer Matilda Djerf behind-the-scenes of her Rhode Beauty partnership before the bullying allegations emerged Yesterday afternoon, the social media star - who recently partnered up with Hailey Beiber's beauty company Rhode on a Christmas collection - posted eight photos from her recent break and put a love heart and teapot emoji in the caption. The first image shows her walking her four-year-old dog Rufus on a coastal path while another captures the pampered pooch wrapped up in a duvet. The carefully curated 'photo dump' also shows a breakfast table, Matilda dipping her green Hunter wellies in the sea and the influencer wrapped up in some pink gingham pyjamas. As well as including a picture of a shell on a beach, Matilda - who recently opened a Djerf Avenue London pop-up - ended the post with a video of dock being engulfed by a wintery fog. The post has amassed 65,000 'likes' in less than 24 hours - and sparked fierce debate in the comments, where the 'top-liked' thoughts were critical of Matilda's swift return. One replied: 'So you're just gonna act like nothing happened.' Another joked: 'Chill time after yelling at my employees all year.' Meanwhile, a third said: 'Lollll the "let's make it look peaceful and reflecting" aesthetic after the chaos is soooo on brand.' Yesterday afternoon, the social media star posted eight photos from her recent break and put a love heart and teapot emoji in the caption The post has amassed 65,000 'likes' in less than 24 hours - and sparked fierce debate in the comments, where the 'top-liked' thoughts were critical of Matilda's swift return 'Matilda, you need to make changes and take responsibility,' a fourth wrote. 'This is not respectful.' However, others felt Matilda - who has now apologised on several occasions - has done enough. Jumping to her defence, one fan wrote: 'Wow guys.. really? What happened is really bad but I am sure she feels terrible about it all too. 'Do you really think posting hateful comments makes you any better..? We are all human beings and sometimes we make mistakes. 'Let her learn from this, give her a chance to grow as a person lets be kind to one another right?' Another replied: 'Delete and block all of these people who arent being supportive of you and still want you to be punished after youve addressed this and apologized. 'They do not deserve to see anything you are doing in your life. Hope you have a wonderful new year.' 'Sending you warm hugs Matilda,' a third said. 'This storm will pass.' Tessa Barton, Matilda Djerf, Julie Sarinana FORWARD by Elyse Walker x David Koma Dinner in Paris in 2019 The carefully curated 'photo dump' also shows a breakfast table, Matilda dipping her green Hunter wellies in the sea and the influencer wrapped up in some pink gingham pyjamas Pictured: Matilda Djerf's four-year-old dog Rufus appeared several times in the Instagram 'photo dump' 11 current and former Djerf Avenue employees revealed the stressful work environment left them with sleep issues while others said they even sought psychological help Despite the Djerf Avenue's focus on inclusivity and sustainability, an investigation by Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet earlier this month revealed Matilda's management style left her employees feeling 'broken' Jumping to her defence, one fan wrote: 'Wow guys.. really? What happened is really bad but I am sure she feels terrible about it all too. Before the investigation was published, Matilda Djerf boasted 3.1m Instagram followers - but has now dropped to 2.9m. Matilda was inspired to launch Djerf Avenue following her experience as a model - having previously revealed how one brand 'edited her to look three sizes smaller'. She told Forbes: 'I seriously questioned it, knowing what these companies were showing online wasnt what the customer was getting when they ordered the garments.' In a personal statement on the brand's website, Matilda said a 'Djerf Avenue world is filled with kindness, inspiration, respect and the perfect wardrobe staples.' Following the investigation, Matilda did not try to deny the allegations - although she did insist she 'did not recognise herself in all the claims made' in an Instagram comment pinned to her most recent post at the time. The influencer, 27, from Boras, Sweden , founded the clothing company Djerf Avenue, which made $35m in revenue last year, with her long-term boyfriend Rasmus Johansson (pictured) in 2019 Matilda Djerf (pictured), 27, has been accused of body-shaming plus-size models in an investigation by Aftonbladet In a subsequent apology, she explained: 'When I started Djerf Avenue I never expected that the company would be what it is today, with so many team members and so much responsibility. I wasn't ready. 'I had never led a team prior to this, I had never built a company prior to this, and under a lot of stress, high tempo and naivety I failed to be the leader and colleague I wish to be along the way. 'I wish my growth happened faster. I really want to underline that I'm extremely committed to getting it right and to continuing growing.' Matilda promised that she had 'made some important changes to improve the work culture,' including hiring a 'more experienced management team,' and launching 'monthly anonymous surveys to collect feedback.' 'I'll be learning and working to ensure Djerf Avenue is a safe, inclusive space for everyone,' the fashion designer said in her lengthy message, before thanking 'all of you who've had honest and transparent conversations with me over the past few days.' Hilaria Baldwin has gone viral yet again for forgetting how to say an English word - despite being born and raised in America. Hilaria, 40, who was born Hillary Hayward-Thomas and grew up in an upscale neighborhood of Boston, was exposed four years ago by DailyMail.com for listing her birthplace as Majorca, Spain, despite spending her childhood in Beacon Hill. While her parents live in Majorca, she grew up in the states and was American - despite using a Spanish accent in interviews. On Monday, DailyMail.com exclusively obtained videos that showed Hilaria treating her holiday guests to 'traditional' Spanish tortilla, which she made while speaking in her now signature accented Spanglish. Hilaria donned a plaid onesie for the Christmas festivities, where she was seen on video saying, 'I learned this from when I was a kid, don't look it up online because you'll learn something different.' The yogi explained the secret to her recipe was making sure the potatoes were 'not cut too tiny,' and then turned to her friend and appeared to forget the English word 'onions.' 'My husband hatescebollas,' Hilaria said, referencing her actor husband, Alec Baldwin, 66, before her friend quickly reminded her she was looking for the word 'onions.' After the video was exposed, FEMAIL spoke to psychologists to find out the reasons that could lead someone to continuously embellish their cultural identity. Video obtained by DailyMail.com showed Hilaria Baldwin treating her holiday guests to 'traditional' Spanish tortilla Hilaria appeared to forget the English word 'onions,' and refers to them by their Spanish name 'cebollas' while cooking Hilaria, 40, took to Instagram to wish her followers a 'feliz navidad' and shared a family photo on Christmas Day Hilaria, her husband Alec, and their children attended the premiere of Spellbound in New York City last month Neuro-hacking biopsychologist Dr. Mary Poffenroth told DailyMail.com, 'Some individuals may fake their cultural identity due to a deep-seated uncertainty about their true sense of self.' 'When someone feels their real identity is somehow lacking or inadequate, their limbic system - the emotional processing center of the brain - may drive them to seek out a more "exotic" or interesting cultural persona,' Dr. Poffenroth, who wrote Brave New You, explained. Dr. Mary Poffenroth told DailyMail.com, 'Some individuals may fake their cultural identity due to a deep-seated uncertainty about their true sense of self' 'Though it's not their own, this need to fit into another cultural group can give a sense of self-worth and belonging that they might be lacking in their daily life.' As to why someone would continue this behavior even after being exposed or discovered, Dr. Poffenroth, based in California, said it could be because they 'ignore or discount any evidence or criticism that runs counter to their false cultural narrative,' leading them to 'concentrate only on positive feedback and validation they obtain.' 'Their conviction in the validity of their chosen identity can be strengthened by this selective attention, thus it becomes challenging for them to accept the truth,' according to Dr. Poffenroth, who works in the mental health space and investigates how the nervous system and brain shapes mental processes and behavior. Family and child psychologist Caitlin Slavens, based in Canada, told FEMAIL, 'Pretending to be from a culture we are not usually comes from a deep desire for acceptance or belonging.' 'Some feel detached from their identity and think that assimilation will offer them better social and professional opportunities,' she continued, explaining that Hilaria seemingly had 'a deep connection to Spanish culture which was fostered and highly encouraged in childhood.' 'Once exposed, they may continue the behavior as a way to maximize shame avoidance or preserve the identity theyve constructed - especially if theyve linked their self-worth or public persona to the behavior,' the Mama Psychologists founder said. Family and child psychologist Caitlin Slavens, based in Canada, told FEMAIL, 'Pretending to be from a culture we are not usually comes from a deep desire for acceptance or belonging' Hilaria and Alec Baldwin, 66, married in 2012. The actor confidently informed talk show host David Letterman that his wife was Spanish during an interview the following year In a now infamous video clip from 2015, Hilaria (left) appeared on a cooking segment for the Today Show where she seemingly forgot the English word for 'cucumber' This isn't the first time the former yoga teacher has gone viral for seemingly forgetting a simple word in her native tongue while cooking. In 2015, Hilaria appeared in a now infamous six-minute segment on the Today Show and made an 'authentic' gazpacho. The Living Clearly Method author listed the ingredients, and at one point, seemed to forget the English word 'cucumber.' 'We have tomatoes, we have, um, how do you say in English? Cucumber!' Hilaria said at the time. Hilaria and her 30 Rock star husband have also given Spanish names to all their seven children: Carmen Gabriela, 10, Rafael Thomas, 8, Leonardo Angel Charles, 7, Romeo Alejandro David, 6, Eduardo Pao Lucas, 3, Maria Lucia Victoria, 3, and Ilaria Catalina Irena, 20 months. In an Instagram video in 2021, Hilaria defended her behavior, claiming she spent 'some of' her childhood in Spain and 'some' of it in Massachusetts. 'There was a lot of back and forth my entire life,' she said. 'I'm really lucky that I grew up speaking two different languages and I'm trying to raise my kids, so they speak two languages too. And that's something very important to me especially having my family abroad.' Emergency vehicles line the feeder road outside Lakewood Church during a reported active shooter event Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024 in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer There is always something going on in a county of 5 million people, and throughout the course of the year, there was no lack of crime stories in the Houston area. But some of this year's crimes were particularly high profile and received international attention, sparking questions about why tragedies happen, and how they can be prevented in the future. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A shooting at Lakewood Church Police officers stand outside Lakeood Church during an active shooter event at the church Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer On Feb. 11, just as a Spanish-language church services were about to begin, a woman wearing a trench coat walked inside Lakewood Church. She was accompanied by a child and carrying an AR-style rifle In the hallway of the church, the woman, Genesse Moreno, claimed to have a bomb and then opened fire. After hitting a man in the leg, Moreno was shot and killed by two off-duty officers working security. The child, Moreno's son, was shot in the heard. He survived, though doctors had to remove a part of his brain. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Moreno's motives for going to the church that day were never determined. A Chronicle investigation into the near-mass shooting revealed Moreno had troubling history of mental illness and violent behavior and raised questions about whether anyone could have stepped in to stop the shooting from happening in the first place. Jocelyn Nungaray Alexis Nungaray, center, is comforted by mourners during graveside services for her daughter, 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer On June 17, the body of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray was found in a shallow north Houston bayou. She was strangled and tied up before being discarded in the water, police said. The grim discovery sparked a manhunt and within days, two men Franklin Pena and Johan Jose Martinez-Rangel were arrested and charged with capital murder over Jocelyn's death. Prosecutors said the men had encountered Jocelyn at a gas station, and then led her to the bridge where she was sexually assaulted and killed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nungaray's murder became a topic of national controversy when it was revealed that the two men had allegedly entered the country without permission, and had both previously been stopped and released by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Neither man had a criminal history in Harris County. In search warrants, police said they were investigating the men's ties to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The men's immigration status was seized upon by politicians, including President-elect Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, who vowed to change immigration laws and policies in Jocelyn's name. Earlier this month, outgoing Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced that prosecutors would seek the death penalty against Jocelyn's two accused killers, though it will be up to newly elected District Attorney Sean Teare's administration to follow through on that plan. A bail bond investigation brings dozens of arrests A person is detained by FBI agents during a large multi-agency operation Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at NRG Arena in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer On the morning July 24, the parking lot of NRG Park was turned into a temporary jail as police from multiple agencies fanned out across the city to arrest 50 people in one fell swoop. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The mass arrest effort was connected to a years-long investigation into bail practices at a single, now-defunct business: Aable Bail Bonds. Authorities said that the people arrested participated in schemes to create and obtain fraudulent information that would be used to obtain bonds for people being held at the Harris County Jail. The people charged include the bond businesses' employees, jailed inmates and everyday people who were recruited and allegedly accepted payments to put their names on the fraudulent paperwork. A trial over the charges is scheduled for April. Law enforcement officer deaths People stand as pallbearers move Harris County Sheriffs Deputy Fernando Esquedas casket outside for the rendering of honors after his funeral mass Friday, July 19, 2024, at Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer On July 11, Harris County deputy Fernando Esqueda was shot and killed while he was helping track down two men wanted in connection to a robbery at a north Houston pizza parlor. Esqueda was ambushed, according to police. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Esqueda was the first sheriff's deputy to be shot and killed in the line of duty since 2022. Within days, two men Ronald Palmer and Dremone Francis were arrested and charged with capital murder in connection to to Esqueda's killing. They're both still awaiting trial. Esqueda wasn't the only law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty in 2024 In April, Harris County deputy John Coddou died after being hit by a car while he was standing in the median of Grand Parkway in Cypress while helping another motorist. In November, Harris County Precinct 5 deputy constable Katherine Hutson, and her daughter, Kacey, died when the car they were in was hit by an alleged drunken driver. Hutson was working extra duty at the time of the crash, providing security for a road work convoy. Another deputy constable, Maher Husseini, was the victim of a brazen daytime shooting while he was on his way to work. Husseini was shot in his car while sitting in traffic in west Houston. The shooting sparked a manhunt that eventually ended with the shooting suspect, Athir Murady, driving his car into Galveston Bay. Murady was charged with capital murder. Abandoned babies A newborn girl was found abandoned and wrapped in a blanket on Sunday, June 15, in west Harris County, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. Onscene TV Over the course of three months this summer, Houston first responders reported finding six babies that had been abandoned shortly after their births. Two of the babies died, and four others were found alive. The spate of abandonment raised questions about whether it was being driven by Texas' restrictive abortion laws, or if there was enough public awareness of the state's Baby Moses laws. Avicii's father has revealed the heartbreaking comment the DJ made after his family staged an intervention in Ibiza - and how he is still struggling with 'survivor's guilt' six years on from his son's death. The Swedish musician, who is the subject of a the new Netflix documentary Avicii: I'm Tim, tragically took his own life at the age of 28 in April 2018. In his seven years in the spotlight, the artist - whose real name was Tim Bergling - achieved several top 10 singles across the globe and worked with world-famous artists such as Madonna, David Guetta, Lenny Kravitz and Coldplay. Speaking to the BBC, Avicii's father Klas recalled how the family stepped in to try and stop Tim spiralling further into painkiller and alcohol addiction in summer 2015. At the time, he had achieved stratospheric commercial success with Hey Brother, which sold 2m copies in the US, and Wake Me Up, which was the UK's fastest selling single of 2013. However, Tim was struggling with his second album Stories, which had to be delayed several times amid his ongoing battle with addiction. Reflecting on the intervention, Klas - who previously said he felt he had 'betrayed' his son with the move - added: 'You confront your child who is completely unaware of what's going to happen. 'You see that he realises something is planned behind his back.' The late Swedish musician (pictured in 2014), who is the subject of a the new Netflix documentary Avicii: I'm Tim, tragically took his own life at the age of 28 in April 2018 Although the family had 'no doubt' about stepping in to help Tim, Klas acknowledged that it had not been an easy decision. The father recalled how the intervention lasted hours - and at the end of it, Tim made a heartbreaking confession. He told his father: 'I had decided hours ago but just wanted to test you.' Tim retired from touring in 2016 and had battled acute pancreatitis, having had his gallbladder and appendix removed in 2014. Elsewhere in the interview, Klas admitted that he still struggles with 'survivor's guilt' and has agonised over what he did 'wrong'. However, the grieving father said multiple therapists have reassured him 'many times, you cannot do anything'. Before his death, Klas, his wife Anki and their three other children had been confident that Tim's mental state was 'improving', which only made the sudden loss all the more devastating. One year after the DJ's death, Avicii's family set up the Tim Bergling Foundation - with Klas acting as Director - to help other young people struggling with their mental health. Pictured: Avicii with his parents Klas and Anki and his older brother Anton Korberg, whom Anki wlelcomed with a previous partner Avicii grew up in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, and was so sheltered that he spent most of his first 19 years in a five block radius After his death, his family said in an emotional statement: 'Our beloved Tim was a seeker, a fragile artistic soul searching for answers to existential questions.' 'He wanted to find a balance in life to be happy and be able to do what he loved most music. 'Tim was not made for the business machine he found himself in; he was a sensitive guy who loved his fans but shunned the spotlight. 'Tim, you will forever be loved and sadly missed. The person you were and your music will keep your memory alive.' Speaking to the Sunday Times in 2021, Klas Bergling said his son was a 'shy' and 'introverted' man who struggled his rapid ascent into the spotlight. He added he had been 'naive' to think going to rehab would solve all of his son's problems. 'Ive heard a thousand times that the fight starts when youre sober. But I was so happy, and you have to remember the happy moments also,' he said. The DJ, who was his parents' only child together but had step-siblings, was a quiet teen who was happiest making music by himself in his room. After teaching himself how to play with guitar, Tim would often skip school in order to work on his music, making songs with a software he pirated. I'm Tim features Avicii himself giving a haunting narration from an interview given late in his career When he shot to fame aged just 21 with Levels in 2011, Tim had to adapt to the DJ lifestyle spent decking in clubs, arenas and festivals, which did not suit his reserved manner, his father said. Streaming giant Netflix have since released two stand-alone films that reflect Avicii's personal struggles as well as his versatile talent as a producer, songwriter and a DJ. Launched simultaneously on Tuesday, behind-the scenes documentary I'm Tim and My Last Show - a recording of Avicii's last ever gig at Ushuaia Beach Hotel in Ibiza - left fans of the tragic DJ in floods of tears. While My Last Show centres on the DJ's electrifying final performance, I'm Tim features Avicii himself giving a haunting narration from an interview given late in his career. He says that he suffered from crippling anxiety and admits he was 'killing' himself with his relentless touring. Avicii's dream was not having to be 'grinding constantly' and pushing himself to work ever harder but he couldn't stop. In a bone chilling moment one of Avicii's most famous collaborators says that SOS, the first single from his posthumous album Tim, was a secret cry for help. Aloe Blacc, who sang on Avicii's mega hit Wake Me Up, said that it was a warning they heard 'way too late.' The documentary, which got rapturous applause at Tribeca from a theater full of Avicii fans, features appearances by some of Avicii's most famous collaborators including disco legend Nile Rogers and Chris Martin of Coldplay. They reflect on the toll that touring took on Avicii, who became famous before he was 20 and performed more than 800 shows in six years, sometimes playing in two cities in one night. The Kardashian family is famous for their star-studded annual Christmas Eve party, but this year, fans were not impressed. Kardashian fans took to Reddit to air their grievances with the family's festivities hosted by Kendall Jenner in a thread asking, 'Soo.. why was Christmas so boring/low key this year?' 'We only saw Kim, Kendall and Kylie post their outfits individually. No group photo, no insights, no big over the top party. Just very chill and sorry, kinda boring this year. Why is that?' the Reddit user asked. Fans quickly shared their theories about why the party was more laid-back, which included staying low-key to avoid overconsumption and a potential secret pregnancy. 'Well Khloe missed the get together because her kids were sick,' one fan explained. 'But I feel like the family is in their give us nothing era. I mean even their show is just one long advertisement for their business ventures and is just yawn.' Another person thought they avoided their usual lavish festivities because they could be too controversial with ongoing scandals from celebrities like Diddy. 'I feel like in general the celebrity world is scaling back and not partying as much,' they explained, adding: 'People dont want to pop out and be seen as much.' 'Probably because everyone keeps lighting them up over how wasteful and "overconsumption core" they are,' another person mused. The Kardashian family is famous for their star-studded annual Christmas Eve party, but this year, fans were not impressed From left: Atiana, Landon, Reign, Kourtney, Travis holding Rocky, Mason, Penelope and Carl Dawson The user posted a picture of Kylie during the holidays in a dress that was not form-fitting like her usual outfits and wrote, 'streets sayin Kylie pregnant' One person explained that it's a double edged sword, writing, 'So if they throw big lavish parties, theyre wasteful, tone deaf, out of touch why dont they donate instead if they do nothing, theyre boring, yawn, their show sucks.' 'Kim had said in an interview that no big party this year because construction going on in their homes. They were just going to do something small,' another person weighed in. Some thought it was less lavish because there wasn't the usual sponsored products provided by brands eager to be featured in front of the Kardashian-Jenner sisters millions of social media followers. 'They didnt get the freebie endorsements that they need to throw the most fabulous vibe-test parties on the cheap,' a Reddit user weighed in. In another Reddit thread, some social media users said they believed the party was more low-key because they were hiding the fact that the youngest Kardashian sister, Kylie Jenner, 27, is pregnant with her third child. The user posted a picture of Kylie during the holidays in a dress that was not form-fitting like her usual outfits and wrote, 'streets sayin Kylie pregnant.' One person pointed out that rumors were rampant because 'she hasnt been posting any recent pics and nobody posted her in their Christmas instagram pics.' However, many thought the dress still looked tight, and that it was possible the Kylie Cosmetics creator wouldn't want to have a third child. The Kardashian-Jenner family is famous for throwing an epic, luxurious Christmas Eve party every year that often features a star-studded guest list; seen in December 2023 If the billionaire beauty guru was expecting, it would be her first child with boyfriend Timothee Chalamet, 29, seen together in January 2024 at the Golden Globes If the billionaire beauty guru was expecting, it would be her first child with boyfriend Timothee Chalamet, 29. Kylie shares daughter Stormi, six, and son Aire, two, with her ex, Travis Scott. Many Reddit users hypothesized that the Dune actor wouldn't be interested in children as he's so busy with his movie career. One wrote about the born and raised Manhattanite, 'Timmy is a New York boy he isn't having kids until he's in his 40s at least.' Some thought Kylie would respond to the rumors - as they've popped up many times throughout their relationship - with one predicting, 'She will debunk this tomorrow. Champagne glass photo incoming...' Last year's star-studded celebration was held at Kim's home and featured a guest list that included family friend Paris Hilton. An Australian mum-of-two has sent shoppers into a frenzy after boasting about an affordable $49 tote bag from Kmart Australia. Halley, from Perth, was amazed by the pricetag and versatility of the PU Weekender Bag, which she compared to $500 baby bags. The stand-out feature was the hidden compartment at the bottom which can be used to store dirty shoes, wet clothes or snacks. 'When I tell you I saw it from a mile away and was like "what is that?"' she said in a six-minute TikTok video. Halley was impressed by the carry bag designed with inner pockets, striped lining, short carry handles and adjustable shoulder strap. 'Kmart can't keep doing this to be because I'm literally going to go bankrupt ... my plan is to use it as a baby bag,' Halley said. The tote bag is large enough for the busy mum to carry water bottles, snacks, nappies, a change of clothes for her toddler and lunchboxes all day with ease. The bottom compartment can also be used to store cool snacks with an icepack as it's lined with a plastic covering. Perth mum Halley (pictured) was amazed by the pricetag and versatility of the PU Weekender Bag, which she compared to $500 baby bags One of the key features of the bag is the hidden pocket, situated at the bottom of the bag, which is perfect for storing dirty shoes and laundry (left: Kmart; Monos: right) The budget bag has also previously been compared to the Metro Weekender ($440) from travel brand Monos, which are both designed with the bottom compartment. The Kmart buy is made with polyurethane while the pricier version comes in multiple materials including vegan leather and nylon. Described as the 'perfect' travel bag, the $49 item has received rave reviews on social media, with some shoppers sharing its many uses as well. 'I used it recently on a long haul flight. It sat well on top of the carry-on suitcase and fit everything I needed for my two kids. Also has enough pockets to keep the small things close,' one five-star reviewer said. Another wrote: 'Great lightweight tote that fits everything you need.' One shopper shared her rave reviews on Kmart's item, claiming it's 'better' than celebrity-loved brand BEIS's best-selling Weekender bags, with prices ranging between $98 to $348. 'Good quality bag for travelling. Flexible so it easily fits under the plane seat. The bottom section is waterproof,' one added. Fashion trends can change in the blink of an eye, and shoppers have struggled to keep up with the latest go-to buys in the wake of the cost of living crisis. Thrifty shoppers have been looking for affordable alternatives for their favourite brands - and one place they can't get enough of is Kmart. The budget retailer has been selling 'dupes' - including a $25 item that looks similar to a popular $190 'dream dress' from a top Australian brand. Other popular 'dupes' include a $15 Kmart version of a $20,000 Hermes bag that Aussie women are loving, along with a $25 light cardigan that fits into the viral 'old money' aesthetic. Val Smith was on a river cruise in France when she woke in the early hours feeling incredible itchiness on her arms, torso and legs. 'I was in agony,' recalls the former family support worker who lives in Holbury, Hampshire. 'I couldn't sleep so I walked to the ship's main lounge and sat there itching all night. I kept thinking, what has caused this?' It wasn't the first time her skin had reacted in this way: a few weeks previously, Val, now 74, had gone to bed feeling very unwell. 'I woke up itching and felt as if I'd been bitten by 1,000 mosquitos,' she says. Her body was covered in hives and welts so she took an antihistamine. 'Next morning it had gone.' A week later the same thing happened, again in the early hours. After the third time, on the cruise in 2018, she worked out that each time she'd eaten beef that night. She searched online and came across posts about alpha-gal syndrome, a condition triggered by a tick bite causing an allergy to red meat. Val thought instantly of the tick bite she'd had seven years earlier. At the time, Val and her husband Les, now 82, had recently moved to the New Forest to be near family. 'I'd built a den with my grandchild, and the day after I noticed a small mosquito-sized red mark on my knee.' The bite got bigger, causing swelling 'like a plate wrapped around my knee huge, round and red', she says. Val Smith, 74, has alpha-gal syndrome, a condition triggered by a tick bite causing an allergy to red meat A couple of months later, the bite still swollen, she saw her GP, who sent her to the local hospital to be tested for Lyme disease, an infection caused by ticks carrying the borrelia bacteria. If treatment (usually antibiotics) is delayed, or it goes untreated, it can lead to painful joints, memory problems and other debilitating symptoms, The test confirmed that Val had Lyme. What she didn't realise was that, as well as causing her leg to swell, the infection prompted an immune response called alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), an allergy to meat that can be triggered after someone is bitten by a tick carrying alpha-gal, a type of sugar molecule, in its saliva. In response, some people produce antibodies against alpha-gal, 'in which case we call the person 'sensitised', explains Andrew Whyte, a consultant allergist and immunologist at Derriford Hospital, Plymouth. 'The alpha-gal molecule is also present in the muscles of all mammals except for humans and most primates so a sensitised person may have a reaction to alpha-gal when they eat red meat.' AGS is, he says, 'completely unrelated' to Lyme disease, which is 'an infection rather than an allergy'. In the US, during tests carried out between 2010 and 2022, more than 110,000 people tested positive for the antibodies to alpha-gal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in July, although it's thought the true figure is closer to 500,000, with cases rising. While there are no figures in the UK, 'it's probably more common than we think as the diagnosis is often missed, but specialists are seeing more cases,' says Dr Whyte. He adds: 'The onset of AGS after a tick bite is often four to six weeks but it can take months in some cases, although we don't know why. Of course, if there is a very long delay it may be that the person was bitten by a tick but didn't notice.' Another feature of AGS is that the symptoms can be delayed by a few hours after eating the red meat. 'Typically an allergic reaction occurs within an hour of eating [the food that causes it], but in AGS it can often be up to four to six hours,' says Dr Whyte. In Val's case, the reactions occurred around seven hours later. AGS is most common in the south and southeast regions of the US where a specific tick, called the Lone Star, is 'the source of alpha-gal transfer to humans', says Dr Whyte. It's also been reported in many other countries, adds Professor Hasan Arshad, chair in Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Clinical and Experimental Sciences at the University of Southampton. AGS symptoms can range from mild such as a rash and swelling to severe, including difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis, where blood pressure drops dangerously and the organs can fail. 'But it's entirely possible that you could have sensitisation to alpha-gal and not react or not have any clinical manifestations,' says Professor Arshad. Alpha-gal syndrome is a condition triggered by a tick bite causing an allergy to red meat While alpha-gal is found mainly in 'mammalian' meat (ie; not chicken) and organs (for example kidney), milk and gelatine can also contain it, he explains. 'Hence, drugs and vaccines and even sweets that have mammalian cells/tissues or even a minor quantity of gelatine can occasionally cause a reaction.' He adds: 'It's been reported that people with blood group A and O are at higher risk and blood group B are protected.' This is because those with blood type A and O have antibodies which can react to alpha-gal, he explains. When someone with AGS eats red meat their reaction may be delayed if they eat fatty rather than lean cuts (as it takes longer to digest fats). Many with AGS 'may have mild symptoms and never been diagnosed', Professor Arshad adds. 'And there may even be some patients with severe symptoms who suffer anaphylaxis but their anaphylaxis has been diagnosed as idiopathic [without any discernible cause] rather than connecting it to meat, as the reaction occurs several hours after consumption of the food. 'In about 30 per cent of those with anaphylaxis, a cause is not identified,' he says. Professor Arshad adds that 'diagnosis is often delayed, because the condition is uncommon, and allergy as a subject is not taught well in medical schools'. But once AGS is suspected, diagnosis is 'relatively easy' with a blood test that can be done by a GP. After the cruise, Val went to her GP who said she'd 'probably had a heat rash'. 'It was only when I got home I realised I should have mentioned AGS so I called and asked if she'd heard of it.' Her doctor replied that 'it was not in the UK'. In fact, while the condition was originally identified in the US in 2002, the UK is among the many other countries where it has now been found. Dr Whyte says: 'While Lone Star ticks are mostly responsible for AGS in North and Central America, other species can be involved in other parts of the world.' Val carried on eating meat but noticed the reaction started happening 'even when I ate pork and sausages or bacon anything with four legs!' she says. 'I'd have worse and worse skin reactions.' Later in 2018, Val insisted on being referred to an allergy specialist. A blood test showed she had Grade 4 AGS, meaning she is 'strongly positive' for it (the scale runs from one, 'equivocal', to four) 'that explained why I reacted so badly every time', she says. She was referred to her hospital's immunology department, where she was warned the reaction can get worse and prescribed an EpiPen (a device loaded with a shot of adrenaline to reduce severe allergic reactions). She was told to avoid all red meat. 'This extends to anything from a mammal, such as gelatine or fat. So many foods contain these, such as certain sweets, desserts, even toothpaste, as well as some vaccines so I have to be extra careful.' As Professor Arshad explains: 'There is no cure for alpha-gal syndrome so people affected need to avoid meat strictly.' He said life can be difficult for those who have a severe allergy. 'The reaction can occur with even small amounts of meat or even inhalation of fumes when meat is cooked, as airborne molecules of alpha-gal can be inhaled.' Val adds: 'It's very hard at hotel buffets as there can be cross-contamination from spoons and utensils and I have to check the food labels on everything. 'I thought the idea of a tick causing all this was ridiculous and that I was going mad. I hope my story raises awareness that AGS is in the UK.' They're the world's most famous conjoined twins. Now, they've attracted fresh attention after sparking pregnancy rumours by sharing an unusual video on social media. Abby and Brittany Hensel who shot to fame after starring in a fly-on-the-wall reality TV series shared a 30-second clip on TikTok that featured a series of 'breaking news' headlines. The final headline read: 'Married and baby on the way'. The video, which was shared without a caption, left many fans questioning whether the twins were expecting, with others congratulating the pair. 'Congratulations, Mom, Dad, and Auntie! How amazing,' one wrote. 'Congratulations! Such a blessing to be a mommy. Wishing you both a safe & healthy pregnancy & delivery,' another said. But it has also led many to speculate how, physically, the sisters could have a baby. Like most conjoined twins, Abby and Brittany, 34, have never publicly spoken about their sex life, despite immense public curiosity. Abby (right) and Brittany (left) Hensel - who shot to fame on a reality TV series - have attracted fresh attention after sparking pregnancy rumours by sharing an unusual video on social media. Pictured, the twins with Abby's husband Josh Bowling The twins from Minnesota , are one of only a handful of sets of dicephalus twins in history, meaning they have two heads and two hearts but share a single body from the waist down including their genitals The 30-second clip on TikTok featured a series of ' breaking news ' headlines. The final headline read: 'Married and baby on the way' The twins from Minnesota, are one of only a handful of sets of dicephalus twins in history, meaning they have two heads and two hearts but share a single body from the waist down including their genitals and reproductive organs. They both currently teach fourth and fifth grade at a local elementary school, where they share the same paycheck due to teaching the same classes. Although Brittany the left twin can't feel anything on the right side of the body and Abigail the right twin can't feel anything on her left, instinctively their limbs move as if coordinated by one person. This means they can conceive a child in the conventional way. However, it is not clear who would be the legal mother, and if there would be complications with carrying a baby. There have only been two reported cases of conjoined twins giving birth one involved sisters who had been surgically separated. In 2021, Charity Lincoln Gutierrez-Vazquez welcomed a healthy baby girl at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle the same hospital where she and her conjoined twin were born 21 years earlier. She and twin sister Kathleen were attached from the breastbone to the pelvis when they were born in 2000. The video, which was shared without a caption, left many fans questioning whether the twins were expecting, with others congratulating the pair They both currently teach fourth and fifth grade at a local elementary school, where they share the same paycheck due to teaching the same classes. Pictured, with Abby's husband Josh Bowling The sisters, who each had one leg, shared several internal organs and a third fused leg. However, when they were seven months old, they were successfully separated by a team of nearly 30 doctors, nurses, and support staff during a dangerous 31-hour surgery. The other case a 2001 report, by US medics at Atlanta Medical Centre in Georgia documented a childbirth by the Blazek sisters. Josepha and Rosa Blazek, born in 1878, were monogenital pygopagus twins, meaning they were conjoined at the base of the spine and pelvis but they had separate vaginas. The sisters claimed to have only had sex once in July 1909 involving Rosa's vagina but Josepha claimed that she 'also had libido'. Rosa's final period prior to pregnancy occurred in July 1909. Writing in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the doctors said: 'The twins recalled that early in her pregnancy, Rosa experienced hyperemesis gravidarum, but Josepha was spared. 'Josepha continued to menstruate from her side of their shared vagina throughout Rosa's pregnancy and until approximately week 32.' In 2021, Charity Lincoln Gutierrez-Vazquez welcomed a healthy baby girl at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle the same hospital where she and her conjoined twin were born 21 years earlier Pictured, with husband Ruben Gutierrez-Vazquez, after the birth of their daughter Alora She and twin sister Kathleen were attached from the breastbone to the pelvis when they were born in 2000. The sisters, who each had one leg, shared several internal organs and a third fused leg In April 1910, Rosa welcomed a 'healthy' son delivered by vaginal birth. The baby was also breastfed. But no first-hand account of the baby's delivery was ever published in medical literature or additional details of the labour. If Abby or Brittany go on to have biological children, they would be the first female dicephalic or fused side-by-side twins to do so. The women each have a heart and lungs, but all other organs, including their reproductive system, is shared. Conjoined brothers, Chang and Eng Bunker born in 1811 remarkably had 21 children between them. Abby and Brittany have always been clear that they want to find romance and become mothers. In interviews throughout their teenage years, Abby said: 'Yeah, we are going to be moms one day, but we don't want to talk about how it's going to work yet.' Brittany added: 'We're going to be great moms. Only one case of a successful pregnancy in conjoined twins has been logged in medical literature. The 2001 report, by US medics at Atlanta Medical Centre in Georgia, documented the childbirth of the Blazek sisters Josepha and Rosa Blazek, born in 1878, were monogenital pygopagus twins, meaning they were conjoined at the base of the spine and pelvis but they had separate vaginas 'The whole world doesnt need to know who we are seeing, what we are doing and when we are going to do it.' Conjoined twins occur when siblings have their skin or internal organs fused together, which affects around one in 200,000 live births. It is caused by a fertilized egg beginning to split into two embryos a few weeks after conception, but the process stops before it is complete. The most common type is twins joined at the chest or abdomen. Doctors can only tell which organs the siblings share, and therefore plan surgery, after they are born. At least one twin survives 75 percent of the time. Just one set of twins in every 40,000 is born connected in some way to each other and only one per cent of those survive beyond the first year. We all know the severity of a hangover is mainly down to how much booze we funneled down our throat. But have you ever wondered why you feel so much worse the morning after sampling a few Merlots and Malbecs compared to, say, vodka? Scientists believe they have hit on the reason why certain drinks can cause such agony the next day. For those of us planning to see the New Year in with a tipple, the theory is the darker the drink, the worse the hangover. 'Different drinks contain differing amounts of substances called "congeners"', said Dr Sally Adams, who researches the effects of alcohol at the University of Birmingham. 'These are added during the fermentation process to improve the taste, aroma and colour of a drink. 'A small body of evidence suggests drinks with a higher congener content (e.g. dark spirits and red wine) may lead to greater hangover severity compared with drinks with less congeners (e.g. gin, vodka).' Studies have also suggested vodka and beer contain the least. Have you ever wondered why you feel so much worse the morning after sampling a few Merlots and Malbecs compared to, say, vodka? Your browser does not support iframes. One 2009 article, published in the journal Nature, found bourbon contains 37 times more congeners than vodka. Another 2010 study discovered bourbon can trigger worse hangovers than vodka. The researchers, from Brown University in Massachusetts, asked participants to drink either decaffeinated cola, vodka or bourbon and later asked them questions about their hangover. Those who drank the bourbon had more severe symptoms than those that drank the vodka. But another, far more recent study, has also hit on the reason why red wine specifically is most likely to leave you with a nasty hangover. According to US scientists, a compound called quercetin which is abundant in red wines may prevent the body processing alcohol properly. Red wine has more quercetin because whole grapes, including the skin, are used white wine has the skins and seeds removed. Quercetin is also more abundant in grapes exposed to more sunlight, researchers at the University of California said. The NHS recommends people drink no more than 14 'units' of alcohol around six glasses of wine, or pints of beer per week Your browser does not support iframes. This means cheaper red wine might actually be better for avoiding a hangover because cheaper grape varieties are grown on vines with large canopies and lots of leaves so they don't get as much sun. 'If youre willing to take a chance, look for an inexpensive, lighter red wine,' Professor Andrew Waterhouse, an expert in enology and Apramita Devi, a postdoctoral researcher in food science, told The Conversation. The scientists don't know exactly how quercetin affects people directly, but they believe it blocks an enzyme needed to break down alcohol in the body. 'First, alcohol is converted to the compound acetaldehyde [in the liver]', they said. 'Then, the enzyme ALDH converts the acetaldehyde to acetate, a common and innocuous substance.' Once this happens, it can be passed out of the body as waste. Quercetin, however, stops the acetaldehyde being made into acetate, so it stays in the body, causing inflammation and a headache. 'Our enzyme tests suggest that quercetin... disrupts your bodys metabolism of alcohol,' they added. For those of us planning to see the New Year in with a tipple, the theory is the darker the drink, the worse the hangover Your browser does not support iframes. Studies have previously suggested that histamine an ingredient more common in red wine than white or rose may to be to blame for red wine headaches, which can strike within half an hour of drinking even small amounts. Histamine can dilate blood vessels in the body, which might trigger headache. But the research is limited. Beer has a lower alcohol content than wine, on average, at 4.4 per cent and 13 per cent, respectively. Spirits are even higher, at 40 per cent. One unit of alcohol roughly one shot or half a pint of a lower-strength beer takes the average adult about an hour to process, the NHS says. The health service recommends people drink no more than 14 'units' of alcohol around six glasses of wine, or pints of beer per week. Meanwhile, the US says women should drink no more than seven standard drinks a week and men can have 14. Scientists across the board agree that excessive alcohol consumption can permanently damage the liver, cause an array of cancers and drive up blood pressure. It puts a strain on the heart muscle and can lead to cardiovascular disease (CVD), which increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. Binge drinking sometimes defined by consuming five drinks within two hours can make the heart beat irregularly, triggering symptoms including breathlessness, tiredness and increased blood pressure. The World Health Organisation estimate alcohol kills three million people around the world each year. A food hygeine specialist has warned the public off a vegetable that's a popular staple in health food cafes due to alarming food poisoning risk. Raw sprouts tiny cress-like greens that are added to salads, soups and sandwiches may be full of vitamin C and magnesium, but they're also a hotbed for dangerous bacteria. That's according to a US-based food scientist who goes by the name of @hydroxide on social media, and attracts millions of users to her food safety videos. In a recent clip psoted to her TikTok channel, the expert described raw sprouts as a 'very very very high risk food', and said they're the one food she'll always avoid. Sprouts are seeds that have germinated and become very young and small plants. Nuts, seeds, beans and leafy green vegetables can all be eaten as sprouts. However, the environment they are grown in is also the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. The food scientist said: 'Bacteria is like your besties on spring break they want to go somewhere hot and moist and they are thirsty. Often regarded as nutritional powerhouses full of vitamin C and proteins and fibre, raw sprouts are sprinkled on salads and added to tacos, sandwiches and Buddha Bowls 'So, sprouts are basically grown in the warmest, most moist humid, wet environment that you can imagine, and guess what bacteria love it.' Unless you are blanching them or 'cooking them into submission' there is a food poisoning risk, she added. One study reported that the number of microorganisms on a sprouting seed can reach up to 1 billion within three days of the sprouting process, according to a report by Clemson University in North Carolina, the US. What's more, American food safety authorites reported more than 2,000 cases of illness related to raw sprouts between 1996 and 2010, including 123 hospitalisations and one death. The social media scientists also warned her 106K social media followers that the tiny vegetables can spread bacteria all over your kitchen. 'You have to think too when you are handling high risk food that is carrying all that moisture, it could get on all your kitchen supplies as well and your counters and your sink and lots of other things,' she said. Raw sprouts can be contaminated with harmful bacteria like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, which can lead to food poisoning. Experts have said that leftovers should be stored in the top section of the fridge away from the fresh meat. Food safety authorities also warn not to leave leftovers in the fridge any longer than two days before eating them Diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps and a high temperature are all symptoms of food poisoning according to the NHS. It can also cause you to feel generally unwell and feel tired and experience aches and chills. The symptoms of food poisoning usually start within a few days or hour of eating the food that caused the infection, but it can in some cases take a week for symptoms to show. The number of people in the UK suffering bad bouts of food poisoning is on the rise, recent figures show. Between 2013 and 2023, hospital admissions for salmonella the potentially deadly bug that's often found in undercooked meat jumped by 79 per cent in England. Meanwhile, e-coli and campylobacter reached record highs in 2023, with hospital admissions for the latter reaching nine in 100,000 people in 2023, up from three in 100,000 in 2000. It appears the US is witnessing a similar pattern. The number of Americans killed by food poisoning has surged by 50 percent in four years, according to an official report published in July. The US has also seen a 20 percent rise in the number of people hospitalised after eating bad food, and the same increase in potentially lethal cases. The UK is on track to face the worst year ever for flu amid spiralling infections, the country's top doctor warned today. Surveillance programmes that monitor the nation's outbreak suggest flu hospital admissions in England have already surpassed last year's peak and are running at their highest level so far this winter. Latest figures show almost 3,000 patients have been hospitalised with the virus. Of these, over 150 were in critical care. But NHS national medical director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, said the worst of Britain's tidal wave is still 'yet to come'. A 'quad-demic' of four winter illnesses flu, Covid, norovirus and cold-like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also continuing to pile pressure on a stretched health service, he added. Experts fear the surge in infections will continue to pick up pace in the coming days as a result of more people socialising indoors over the Christmas and the New Year period. They have urged people with coughs, sore throats or a runny nose to limit contact with vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women and those with underlying conditions over fears they could become seriously unwell with the virus. Sir Stephen said: 'The winter flu season has not only hit the NHS early this year, but it is potentially on track to be one of the worst we have ever seen, as the "quad-demic" continues to increase pressure across services. NHS national medical director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, said the worst of Britain's tidal flu wave is still 'yet to come' Your browser does not support iframes. 'Frontline NHS staff are currently under significant pressure and as families and friends have gathered over the festive period and to celebrate the new year, we expect the peak of seasonal viruses is yet to come. 'Firstly, I'd like to thank NHS staff despite huge demand, they continue to work tirelessly to keep patients safe and provide them with the best possible care. 'And secondly I would like to remind the public that community services like GPs and pharmacies are open as usual for help and advice today and on Thursday and Friday. 'Anyone who needs medical support should continue to use services as normal 999 and A&E only in an emergency, and for other urgent health needs, use NHS 111 or 111 online.' The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which collects data for England, has paused its updates over Christmas, meaning the impact of festive gatherings will not be clear until early in the new year. According to the latest weekly NHS figures, RSV which is most common in infants and young children was 25 per cent higher in the week ending December 17, than the previous year. Rates of the winter vomiting bug norovirus, meanwhile, are also almost 25 per cent higher than expected for this time of year. Some hospitals have begun to limit visiting hours and have imposed mask mandates over fears of rising 'quad-demic' cases. Norovirus can appear similar the symptoms of Covid, with both viruses causing chills, fever and headaches Your browser does not support iframes. NHS trusts in Cambridge, Essex and Bedfordshire introduced new restrictions on Monday to limit the risk of infection to patients, staff and the public. Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and the Welsh Ambulance Service have also declared critical incidents due to the huge increase in demand for care. On Saturday, NHS Dumfries and Galloway also introduced temporary restrictions to visiting due a 'high volume of respiratory illness' in the community. Despite the rising pressures, latest official data shows just under one in four frontline healthcare workers in England have had the flu vaccine this year. The Government report found overall just 24.3 per cent of staff responsible for direct patient care have been vaccinated for influenza. Analysis of data showed vaccination rates are lower in every staff group, including NHS hospital staff, paramedics and GPs this year than in the 2023 season. Public health specialists say those with even mild cold symptoms should consider self-isolating as they may unknowingly have the virus which can be fatal to older people. Along with avoiding family gatherings, they have recommended mask-wearing and social distancing in a bid to avoid passing on the bug. Professor Paul Hunter, an expert in infectious diseases from the University of East Anglia, told MailOnline: 'If you are ill with flu you should stay away from other people for the first three days and preferably for the first week. 'This is especially important if they are elderly or suffer from medical conditions that make them more at risk.' Flu symptoms include a fever, sore throat, muscle aches and a cough, however Prof Hunter warned many people simply suffer something similar to a common cold. About a fifth of those infected with flu have no symptoms but can still pass the bug on to others, he added. Professor Lawrence Young, virologist from the University of Warwick, also urged people with potential flu symptoms to consider lockdown-style measures. 'If you have flu-like symptoms, its really important to think about limiting your contact with other people particularly those who are clinically vulnerable to chest infections,' he said. He added this was important to consider even if vulnerable people had received a flu jab as, like any vaccine, it cannot offer 100 per cent protection from serious illness. Flu, also called influenza, is responsible for about 40,000 hospitalisations and more than 10,000 deaths in the UK every year, though this can be higher in bad years. A man who had been living with a large lump on his neck for more than decade finally sought to remove it but received a surprising cancer diagnosis, despite never having any symptoms. Around age 31, an anonymous Polish man noticed a small, firm, painless lump in the front of his neck. He went about his life, working in a military museum as a night guard, but the lump continued to grow. After 15 years, he noticed the mass had gotten large enough that it was getting in the way of him shaving. Eventually, he went to the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine hospital in Warsaw. There, doctors discovered the man had a neck mass nearly 2inches in size - about the size of a stamp. They assumed it was a harmless growth called a Thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) that usually forms in the womb. However, testing later revealed he was among just one percent of patients with this growth who had cancerous cells within otherwise normal tissue. The patient was then diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Researchers from the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine are raising awareness about this rare condition. Given the unusual presentation of the cancer, said doctors should be on the look out for it, especially in their elderly patients. The majority of these cysts are found in children under age ten. In this case study, the man didn't notice the growth until his thirties Your browser does not support iframes. TGDC is a relatively common neck abnormality, and is found in 70 percent of children with neck lumps. As people age, they become less common, and only affect an estimated seven percent of Americans per year. These form in the womb, when genetic abnormalities cause leftover thyroid tissue to form into pockets that fill with fluid. There, TGDCs can go undetected for years. Usually, someone figures out they have one when they notice subtle swelling along the front of their neck, or develop problems swallowing or keeping their tongue in their mouth. This is most commonly diagnosed in children before age 10, according to Cleveland Clinic. Most patients experience no pain, and the vast majority of these are harmless - but in about one percent of cases, they contain cancerous cells that can spread. In the Polish man's situation, doctors say it is unusual for someone to live to age 30 and not realize they have this kind of growth. That was the case of the anonymous 46-year-old man, whose story was published in the American Journal of Case Reports. After taking initial scans, doctors predicted he had TGDC, but not cancer. Still, to stop the lump from growing and making the man uncomfortable, they opted to remove it with surgery. It's unclear when this occurred. The surgery, they wrote, was uneventful. They were able to remove the entire growth and the man only took two days of recovery at the hospital. Later though, routine cellular testing discovered a cluster of cancerous cells within the lump. The arrow shows the lump in the throat of the 46-year-old patient. Doctors moved to cut it out before they suspected he might have cancer He was diagnosed with primary papillary thyroid cancer. Luckily, doctors caught it in while it was still a Stage 1 cancer, before it had grown even larger or spread into the patient's bones, blood or lymph nodes. After performing further tests to ensure it hadn't spread, the doctors concluded the patient's cancer had already been cut out. Six months later, he was still cancer free. In the rare cases where this kind of neck bump is cancerous, the best form of treatment is surgery, the study authors said. This sometimes means people also have to get part of their thyroid or neck bones removed. On top of surgery, people with this kind of thyroid cancer, which affects about 44,000 Americans per year, may also benefit from hormone therapy, radiation or chemotherapy. If caught early, like in the case study, this type of cancer is incredibly treatable. Between 99 and 100 percent of patients with the condition are declared cancer-free five years after being diagnosed and treated. Though it's rare for these kinds of cysts to turn into cancerous tumors, the researchers from the case study recommend doctors who find these in people over 40 take special precaution to look for cancer. They said: 'Suspicion of malignancy should be heightened in elderly patients with a TGDC, due to the rarity of this condition in that age group.' Caroline Wilburn is a breaking news reporter for the Houston Chronicle. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Caroline worked as an election stringer for the Associated Press and as a breaking news fellow at the Texas Tribune. At the Tribune, she got a crash course in interpreting data, distilling complicated policy and following statewide trends on a tight deadline. Shes also a skilled video editor and podcast producer. She won a first-place award for audio news production at the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. DG Innovate plans to delist from the London Stock Exchange and has taken aim at the costs and rules involved in a London listing. The research and development company specialising in sustainable transport and energy storage said it had 'found it difficult to raise sufficient funds to invest in its commercialisation strategy'. It added in a statement: 'This is in part due to its current listing and the constraints of the associated prospectus rules.' DGI shares fell over 66 per cent this morning to 0.026p. DGI's departure follows a string of high-profile moves away from London this year, despite efforts by policymakers to boost the market's attractiveness with red-tape cutting and listing reforms. Approximately 88 businesses had ditched their primary listings on London's main market by mid-December, while 18 took their place, representing the biggest net outflow since 2009, according to data from then London Stock Exchange Group. Earlier this month, FTSE group Ashtead announced plans to shift its primary listing to New York in a blow to London. Delisting: DG Innovate plans to delist from the London Stock Exchange The construction rental group has been listed in London since 1986, but makes nearly all its profits in the US. On Thursday, DGI claimed it was 'also clear that there has been and remains a broad lack of demand for exposure to companies at DGI's current stage of development within the UK's traditional institutional investor base.' It said there were no 'obvious near-term catalysts' to improve conditions and claimed the costs of listing were 'completely disproportionate' to the benefits of maintaining a listing. DGI added: 'Delisting will significantly reduce the company's cost base and assist the company in raising the capital it requires to invest'. The group's shares are set to be cancelled on 31 January. Labour has pushed ahead with reforms to help revitalise London's capital markets, including by consolidating pension funds to allow for greater investment into domestic companies. However, businesses like Paddy Power owner, Flutter, and travel group Tui switched their primary listings from London to rival hubs such as New York and Frankfurt this year. London has lost out on blockbuster IPOs including that of chip designer Arm, which listed on Wall Street in August 2023. Klarna, the buy now, pay later firm, has followed suit. The 2024 election season ended with Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to lead a major party presidential ticket, losing massively to Donald Trump. Liberals were left distraught that the ultimate glass ceiling wasn't finally shattered once and for all. Rubbing salt in their proverbial wound, the most powerful women in the world now share one trait - they're all Trump supporters. Incoming First Lady Melania has already signaled that she will play a more pivotal role in her husband's second administration. MAGA die-hard Karoline Leavitt has been tapped to shape Trump's messaging on the world stage as his press secretary. And Alina Habba, Trump's trusted legal adviser, will be taking a role as his counselor. Trump has also appointed women to some of his most senior Cabinet positions. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been selected to head the Department of Homeland Security, giving her ultimate responsibility for the border, a $60billion budget and hundreds of thousands of employees. Pam Bondi, the former top prosecutor in Florida, has been named as Attorney General. Tulsi Gabbard, should she pass through Senate confirmation hearings, will serve as Director of National Intelligence, giving her massive power at a crucial time in geopolitics as the U.S. faces threats from Russia and China. In other top roles, Trump has appointed Janette Nesheiwat as Surgeon General, Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Labor chief, Linda McMahon as head of Education and Brooke Rollins to lead the Department of Agriculture. Former First Lady Melania Trump is also prepares to make her way back to Washington for a second term in the White House. Some women will serve in the incoming Trump administration including if confirmed in the Senate, Pam Bondi as attorney general. Susie Wiles will be the first women ever to serve as a White House chief of staff. Former First Lady Melania Trump is also expected back in Washington when her husband takes office Susie Wiles will also be the first woman ever to serve as White House Chief of Staff while Karoline Leavitt will be the youngest ever White House press secretary at 27 years old. Former First Lady Melania Trump is also preparing to make her way back to Washington for a second term in the White House. A body language expert suggested that Melania is feeling more secure in her shoes as she's set to become the first lady for a second time next month. She appeared alongside President-elect Donald Trump earlier this month to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange, part of celebrating his Time magazine 'Person of the Year' win. Habba, incoming counselor to Trump, recently told DailyMail.com that she hopes to use her new White House role to secure for Americans the same protections she fought to get for Donald Trump during his lawsuits. Specifically, she said her passion lies in preventing weaponization of the legal system against U.S. citizens. 'I fought for President Trump, but now I get to fight for America to make sure it doesn't happen to anybody,' Habba told DailyMail.com in an exclusive interview. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., will be stepping down from the House to take the top role at the United Nations representing the United States. Trump's 33-year-old aide Natalie Harp with the nickname 'human printer' will be by his side once again. Karoline Leavitt (left) with Margo Martin Alina Habba, Trump's trusted legal adviser, will be taking a role as his counselor She will be joined by the glamorous Margo Martin, Trump's right hand communications adviser who has been confused with Melania in the past. There are other powerful roles being occupied by women, particularly in Congress. Women overall are down as are the number of Republican women lowering the total representation as a whole, but the number of Democratic women in the House will set a new record. With MAGA firebrands Marjorie Taylor Greene and Nancy Mace, there should be no shortage of drama on Capitol Hill. Mace recently proposed a measure that would block the first transgender member of Congress Sarah McBride from using biological women's restrooms in the U.S. Capitol. 'He is a man,' Greene said of McBride. 'He is not allowed to use our women's restrooms, our women's gym, our locker room, our spaces that are specified for women. He's a biological. He has plenty of places he can go.' It started a 'trans war' in the Capitol prompting Speaker Mike Johnson to step in and rule that McBride cannot use the women's restrooms. North Dakota elected the first woman to represent the the state in the House with Republican Julie Fedorchak set to take office in January. Rep-elect Julie Fedorchak (R-N. Dak.) is the first woman elected to represent North Dakota in the House. With her election, Mississippi will become the only state to have never elected a woman to the House Bynum will be the first black woman to represent Oregon while Pou will be the first Latina to represent New Jersey in the House She will represent one of two states that never had a women representative in the House, leaving Mississippi as the only state starting next year to have never elected a woman House member. Women of color also will mark milestones with Oregon electing the first black woman to Congress with Janelle Bynum flipping a House seat. Nellie Pou will become the first Latina woman to represent New Jersey when she is sworn into the House next month. On the Senate side, there will be two black women senators serving at the same time for the first time in January with the election of Delaware's Lisa Blunt Rochester and Maryland's Angela Alsobrooks. For the first time ever there will be two black women serving in the U.S. Senate at the same time starting in January Rep-elect Sarah McBride (D-Del.) will be the first transgender woman to serve in the House Blunt Rochester is also the first woman elected to represent her state in the Senate. Overall, there will be 25 women senators in January, one shy of the record set in 2020. There will be 125 women House members. According to Kelly Dittmar from the Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), how women do in congressional elections is also a partisan story because women make up close to half of Democratic nominees but are just over 15 percent of GOP nominees. When Democrats do well, there tend to be more women elected. Republicans will hold a slim majority in the House come January. But the 119th Congress is on track to have no women elected to chair any House committees come January after Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) lost her bid for the House Foreign Affairs Committee gavel. Current House Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) is retiring, and House Education and Workforce Committee Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) is term-limited. The last time no woman led a single standing committee in the House was nearly 20 years ago in the 109th Congress from 2005 to 2006. There will also be no women in the very top Senate leadership roles, but Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) will serve as Republican Policy Committee chair while Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) will serve as Democratic Steering and Policy Committee chair. In the House, Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) will serve as Republican Conference chair while Rep. Katherine Clark (D-Mass.) will remain minority whip. Women governors hit an all-time high Women will also hold a record number of governors' offices next month, but it will only be temporary. That's because when Republican Kelly Ayotte is sworn into office in New Hampshire in January, the total number of women governors will reach 13 for the first time ever. Governor-elect Kelly Ayotte (R) will become the latest woman governor in the U.S. when she is sworn in to represent New Hampshire in January. While she won't be the first woman governor of the state, the total number of women governors will tick up to a new record briefly when she joins the ranks However, Governor Kristi Noem is expected to leave her office in South Dakota soon after if confirmed to serve in the Trump administration as Secretary of Homeland Security, bringing the number back down to the current record of 12. That record will also tick up to 14 women governors for a brief few days as a short game of political musical chairs plays out in Delaware. That's when the state's governor steps aside to become the newly elected mayor of Wilmington and Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long briefly holds office before the state's new governor is sworn in. For a short time when Ayotte takes office there will also be a record five Republican women governors serving at the same time beating the current record of four. When all the shake-ups are said and done to start the year, the total women governors is set to settle at 12, matching the current record first set in 2023. State legislatures see uptick in women The U.S. is on track to have more women serving in state legislatures next year than ever before, and women will hold majorities in three state legislatures for the first time after women have long trailed men when it comes to representation at a state level. New Mexico and Colorado are expected to join Nevada with majority women legislatures when new members are sworn in. Nevada was the first state to elect a women-majority state legislature in 2018. Arizona also temporarily had a women-majority legislature, but it has since changed. In the new year, nearly 62 percent of Nevada's state legislature will be women while 52 percent of Colorado's and nearly 54 percent of New Mexico's will. Seven individual state legislative chambers in total will have women in the majority across the country for the first time including Nevada's House and Senate, Arizona's Senate, California's Senate, Colorado's House, New Mexico's House and Oregon's House. Three states including Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico will have majority women legislatures in the new year hitting a new record. Seven state legislative chambers in total will have women majorities At least 2,450 women will serve in state legislatures nationwide starting next year which makes up 33.2 percent of all state legislative seats. That's a slight uptick from the current record of 2,431 women state legislators set in 2024. Dittmar noted progress in terms of representation at a state level is clearing being made, but that does not mean big changes are on the way because of it. 'There's not one thing that happens because there's a majority women,' she said. 'When you talk to women in these spaces, they will talk about the benefits of having more women and creating a normalization of women's leadership in these spaces,' Dittmar said. 'At the same time, they will remind you parity in numbers doesn't always equal parity in power, and these institutions are still often burdened with very male and white roots,' she added. New plans have been unveiled to transform an island that housed an asylum with a dark history of abuse into a tourist attraction. Peat Island in the Hawkesbury River on NSW Central Coast was acquired by the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council (DLALC) in November 2022. DLALC Chairperson Barry 'BJ' Duncan said the island, also known by the indigenous name Kooroowall-Undi, will be revitalised after being abandoned when the Peat Island Hospital closed in 2010. 'Kooroowall-Undi has languished for too long, and we have many possibilities that we'll workshop with our members, on an economically-productive and culturally-appropriate future for the island,' Mr Duncan told the NSW Aboriginal Land Council. 'Our plans will of course be focused on Aboriginal employment, business development and economic growth.' Mr Duncan said the redevelopment will also pay tribute to the mentally ill and developmentally disabled people who suffered abuse, neglect and exploitation in over a century of the asylum's operation. 'The Peat Island history over the last century or so isn't only about sorrow, it's about resilience. We want to do justice to the strength of the ex-residents and staff of the former facility,' he said. The plans are still in the early stages after clearing work began at the island and a Bunya Pine was also planted to recognise the indigenous connection to the area. Exciting new plans have been unveiled to transform Peat Island (pictured), in the Hawkesbury River on the NSW Central Coast The DLALC fought for eight years to obtain ownership of Peat Island, which was officially granted in October 2022, after 10 months of negotiations. The buildings on the island include a hospital and a patient housing ward that have become dilapidated over time. The decayed structures, which were built in the first decade of the 20th century, sit alongside a large water tower that held water pumped from the mainland. Overgrown grass now covers much of the uninhabited island, and rabbits have again taken over much of it, as they did before the initial settlement. The island was turned into a facility in 1911 for people with physical and mental disabilities and was run by the NSW state government until 2010. The facility was a grim place for hundreds of young men and boys to live before female patients began to be admitted in 1978. Inquests found several patients were tortured and were physically and sexually abused while several deaths at the facility remain unexplained. Around 300 patients, who died while living in the facility, are buried in unmarked graves at the Brooklyn Cemetery nearby. The island was turned into a facility in 1911 for people with physical and mental disabilities and was run by the NSW state government until 2010 (pictured an abandoned building at Peat Island) The first major incident occurred in 1924 when an inmate named William Pfingst admitted to killing another inmate Harold Besley. Besley was struck with a stick before Pfingst tied him up with a bag over his head before Besley was dropped into the water where he later drowned. Boys and teenagers were also among the victims at the facility. Among them was eight-year-old boy Robert Bruce Walker, who was found floating on the Hawkesbury River in 1940. An 11-year-old boy Robert Blackwood was found inside an iron bin on May 11, 1950 after he had been choked to death. He had spent just five months at the facility. During another incident, a 17-year-old male teenager had 10 fingernails removed before it was reported several weeks later in January 1981. The facility was later turned into a residential care centre for people with intellectual disabilities and patients were reportedly provided with better care and support. Several patients were tortured and were physically and sexually abused while several deaths that occurred at the facility (pictured) remain unexplained The latest redevelopment plan comes after the state government launched a planning proposal in September 2021 to rezone Peat Island before it was scrapped just months later (pictured an abandoned swimming pool at Peat Island) The latest redevelopment plan comes after the state government launched a planning proposal in September 2021 to rezone Peat Island. The proposal, which was lodged with the Central Coast Council, explored the possibilities to build open spaces, community facilities and new homes. The proposal was scrapped in May 2022 following extensive feedback from locals and a public exhibition that was held for three months. Elusive World Series-winning pitcher Scott Erickson is about to be thrown a curve ball as a court move by the parents of two boys killed by his ex-lover could bring him back into the spotlight. Erickson, who has not been seen in public since the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of Jacob and Mark Iskander in 2020, will have to answer a claim for millions of dollars. The 56-year-old has been named in a civil suit filed by Karim and Nancy Iskander which they are now hoping to fast-track through Los Angeles's crowded court calendar. Now a hearing has been set for January 10 to decide whether the case should be heard before next December when it had been scheduled. Erickson, who won the World Series with the Minnesota Twins in 1990, had been drinking with his lover Rebecca Grossman over brunch on September 29 2020. They left in their separate SUVs racing through the streets at up to 80mph before Grossman struck Mark Iskander, 11, and his brother Jacob, 8, at a crosswalk in Westlake Village. A jury found her guilty in February of two felony counts each of second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter, and one felony count of hit-and-run driving resulting in death. But Erickson, who also played for the Baltimore Orioles, New York Mets, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees during his 16-year Major League career, got away with a misdemeanor reckless driving conviction which was later dismissed when he made a safe driving Public Service Announcement. Former MLB pitcher Scott Erickson has been dragged back into the spotlight after being named in a civil suit alongside ex-lover and convicted child killer Rebecca Grossman in the deaths of brothers Jacob and Mark Iskander in 2020 Grossman and Erickson attended a fundraising event in 2020 shortly before the accident. Erickson was charged with misdemeanor reckless driving and his case was resolved in February 2022 with a judge ordering him to make a public service announcement for high school students about the importance of safe driving The Iskanders have filed a motion for 'preferential trial setting' which, if granted, could fast track the trial to May 2025 or even earlier. But in new court documents found by DailyMail.com, Grossman, 61 who is now prisoner number WH3518, serving a 15-year term in the California Institution for Women in Chino and Erickson have both filed objections. Grossman claims Iskander's attorney agreed not to file a trial preference motion while Erickson contends that since he was never convicted of a felony, a trial preference motion doesn't apply to him. A hearing is set for January 10 where LA Superior Court Judge Huey Cotton will rule on the Iskander's motion to move their civil trial to the front of the line. At the trial, Grossman had tried to pin the blame on the accident on Erickson, saying it was his black Mercedes SUV not Grossman's white Mercedes that hit the Iskander boys as they walked across a marked crosswalk in Westlake Village, west of LA. The pair who were dating while Grossman was separated from her husband, acclaimed plastic surgeon Peter Grossman had been sharing margaritas earlier in the day at Julio's restaurant in Westlake Village. The Iskanders named Erickson as a defendant alongside Grossman in their wrongful death civil lawsuit, slamming him for racing with her on the day of the accident and saying his 'despicable conduct played a substantial factor in causing the fatal collision'. Erickson has hired attorneys to fight the civil lawsuit and last week both he and Grossman's lawyers filed motions calling on Judge Cotton to throw out the Iskanders' bid for an earlier trial date. Attorneys for both Grossman and Erickson submitted filings opposing the Iskander's motion for a preferential trial, documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal Grossman was found guilty of killing brothers Mark (left) and Jacob Iskander, 11 and 8, respectively, after slamming her Mercedes into them as they crossed the street on September 29, 2020 The boys' parents filed a civil suit against Grossman and Erickson seeking damages over their sons' tragic deaths. Nancy and her husband Karim left court together on February 6, 2024 The judge scheduled the current far-off trial date December 1, 2025 because of a heavy, backed-up LA court calendar. To try to bring that date forward, the Iskanders filed a 'preferential trial setting' motion which, if granted, would mean they could get a trial within 120 days because the cash damages they're seeking for the deaths of their boys 'were allegedly caused by the defendant (Grossman) during the commission of a felony for which the defendant has been criminally convicted'. That would mean a trial by May 2025 or earlier. Erickson's attorneys are asking Judge Cotton to deny the Iskanders' motion, saying in court papers: 'Defendant Erickson has not been convicted of a felony in this matter.As such the basic statutory requirement of California Code of Civil Procedure Section 37 has not been met.' They add that if the judge did grant the motion to fast-track the trial, Erickson 'will not have enough time to prepare his defense..Such prejudice would violate his right to due process' Grossman's lawyers are also vehemently opposed to the 'preferential trial setting' motion, accusing the Iskanders' civil attorney of 'reneging' on an agreement made in August 2023 in which the Iskanders' counsel said he wouldn't ask for trial preference. The attorney conceded in court papers that he had made that agreement but countered: 'When I said that back in August 2023, I wasn't contemplating getting a trial date in December 2025.Had such a trial date been foreseeable, I would not have agreed to anything.' In their unlawful death civil lawsuit against Grossman, the Iskanders have also filed a motion asking Judge Cotton to let them probe her financial worth, estimated to be around $20million. The judge is scheduled to rule on that motion on February 26. Erickson played with the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2005 for a year, then ended his career at the New York Yankees in 2006 Grossman and her husband Peter, who is also named in the civil lawsuit as the owner of the white BMW that hit the boys are seen arriving arm-in-arm at the LA Superior Courthouse in January Grossman's Mercedes after the incident. The black box showed she was traveling well over the 45mph limit The cash damages the Iskanders are seeking are 'unspecified' as of yet, but when they've determined exactly how rich she is, they'll be able to put a dollar figure on how much they want from her for the agony and suffering they've endured since losing their two beloved sons. Grossman and her husband Peter who is also named in the civil lawsuit as the owner of the white BMW that hit the boys and the one who pays the insurance on the vehicle are rich targets. Peter Grossman, 61, is medical director of Grossman Burn Centers, a multi-million dollar medial corporation with modern, state-of-the-art hospitals in West Hills and Bakersfield, California and Kansas City, Missouri. Grossman Burn Centers was founded by Peter's plastic surgeon father, Dr. Richard Grossman, who died at age 81 in 2014, leaving an estate estimated at more than $20million. The current centers which specialize in the treatment and reconstruction of burn injuries have cared for many wealthy and famous patients, including Jay Leno who went to Grossman when he was burned in a garage gas fire in 2022 and actress Anne Heche who suffered burns that eventually killed her in a fiery car crash the same year. Texas-born Rebecca Grossman helped run the philanthropic wing of the family empire, the Grossman Burn Foundation, often hosting star-studded galas and fund raisers to help collect the funds to pay for the treatment of burn victims who are not so well off. But outside the Grossman Burn Foundation, according to various published reports, she's had a successful solo business career in medical marketing, technology and real estate, plus a guest host spot on ABC7 Eyewitness News. All this together with some shrewd investments add up to an estimated personal worth of $20million for Rebecca, who reportedly went to UCLA and has a degree in economics. A witness told the jury in Grossman's criminal trial that she had rushed to the nearby marked crosswalk in Westlake Village where she found a distraught Nancy Iskander barefoot and a pair of shoes lying nearby after the crash The boys' father, Karim said that the family was waiting on apology after the verdict was finalized Before and during her murder trial Grossman was living with her husband in a luxurious, nine-bedroom, ranch-style Hidden Hills home worth around $9million and located in a gated community where neighbors include Kylie Jenner and former Full House TV star Lori Loughlin. But that quickly changed when jurors convicted her. The $2million bail she had been free on for more than three years was immediately revoked and she was sent to the notorious Twin Towers jail in downtown LA to await her sentencing. After her 15-year sentence was passed, she was transferred to the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla around 250 miles northwest of LA. In August, she was moved closer to home, to the California Institution for Women in Chino which is only about 40 miles east of downtown LA, making it much easier for her husband and their two teen children, daughter Alexis and son Nicholas, to visit her. Donald Trump is already engaging in 'shadow diplomacy' as he sets the U.S. up for major foreign policy shifts that will reverberate around the world when he enters the White House on January 20. Trump has been unusually active for a president-elect in establishing ties with world leaders in the final days before he takes office, and he has issued a string of warnings like threatening to retake control of the Panama Canal. In addition to greeting foreign leaders like Argentinian President Javier Milei, Trump has hosted Israel's minister of strategic affairs Ron Dermer at Mar-a-Lago, while some of his key advisors have been conducting discussions on his behalf. That includes envoys speaking privately with Ukrainian officials as the third anniversary of Russia's invasion approaches. Trump also got the immediate attention of the leaders of Mexico and Canada with his demands that they put a stop to illegal immigration. He then taunted Canadian PM Justin Trudeau with a series of posts about making Canada the 51st U.S. state. It was a sign that Trump is planning for a muscular foreign policy. The outgoing Biden administration has raised no concerns about Trump getting a running start on his diplomatic initiatives, even as Trump has mockingly accused President Biden as being checked out. And Biden's own decision to avoid the limelight since the election has left a vacuum for Trump to fill. Donald Trump threatened to retake control of the Panama Canal before Christmas, after keeping a busy schedule contacting foreign leaders Biden's national security advisor Jake Sullivan has repeatedly stressed the normality of an incoming president meeting foreign leaders. Sullivan, in a conversation with Eurasia Group founder Ian Bremmer, said: 'The imperative on us, both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration, has to be to lash up more tightly than is typical. 'To spend more time together than is typical, and to try to ensure we are sending a common, clear message to both friends and adversaries in the Middle East, and we have endeavored to do that over the last few weeks.' Sullivan said he and incoming national security advisor Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.) have been working 'closely together,' despite disagreements in long-term strategy in the Middle East. 'At this moment, on big-ticket items, when we need some degree of smoothness and continuity in the handoff from one administration to the next, I think both the outgoing and incoming administrations see the bigger picture. And that's really important,' he said. In one of his most vocal pronouncements, Trump issued a chilling ultimatum to Hamas on December 2, demanding they release hostages. One of the outgoing administration's top priorities has been to try to negotiate a ceasefire and release of hostages. 'Please let this TRUTH serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity,' Trump posted on his Truth Social site. 'Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!' Trump demanded. It was yet another instance of Trump seizing the initiative at a time when President Biden has avoided extensive public engagements. Trump also traveled to Paris for the reopening of Notre Dame, visiting with a series of world leaders including the President of Georgia and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump has warned there will be 'hell to pay' if Hamas doesn't release hostages by January 20th. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says he won't end the war 'until we remove Hamas' 'I have not talked to him for more than four years,' Russian President Vladimir Putin said of Trump Trump also vowed during the campaign to take a tough line on China, repeatedly pledging to slap tariffs on Beijing. In early December, he sent a signal about his posture by announcing he would bring back trade advisor Peter Navarro as a senior advisor. Navarro - author of 'Death by China: Confronting the Dragon - A Global Call to Action' - argued for aggressive tariffs on Beijing during Trump's first term. Complicating the picture, Trump-backer Elon Musk has deep economic ties in China and even heaped praise on Beijing's economic gains on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the country's ruling Communist Party. Trump also said during the campaign that he could end Russia's war in Ukraine in one day. His rivals warned he could spoil long-term alliances with NATO allies. The outgoing Biden administration has continued to ship billions worth of munitions to Kyiv, while Trump has criticized Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S.-provided missiles to strike deep inside Russia. In one sign of how Trump's world view continues to be shaped by accusations of Russian interference in his 2016 win, he still rails about 'Russia, Russia, Russia' in his public posts. Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed in his annual year end press conference that he has not spoken with Trump, despite Trump's own coy answers when asked about it. 'I don't know when we will meet because he has not said anything about it,' said Putin. 'I have not talked to him for more than four years. Of course, I'm ready to talk any time; I will be ready to meet with him if he wishes.' That raises the prospect of high-stakes diplomacy early in Trump's term, although some of his administration picks like his choice for Secretary of State Sen. Marco Rubio signal a more traditionalist approach. Still to be determined is what role Trump's pick to be 'envoy for special missions' Ric Grenell, the former U.S. ambassador to Germany, will play. Trump has also promised to use his negotiating skills to end the bloody conflict in Gaza, and has pointed to diplomatic gains in the Middle East resulting from the Abraham Accords signed in his first term. Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed in his annual year end press conference that he has not spoken with Trump, despite Trump's own coy answers when asked about it 'Get it over with and let's get back to peace and stop killing people,' he told talk host Hugh Hewitt in April. There have been rumors for weeks that a deal was close, after Israel decimated Hezbollah's leadership in Lebanon and the stunning fall of the Assad regime in Syria. But finding a resolution will once again test the complex U.S.-Israel relationship. Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu, a Trump ally, told the Wall Street Journal last week, 'I'm not going to agree to end the war before we remove Hamas. We're not going to leave them in power in Gaza, 30 miles from Tel Aviv. It's not going to happen.' That drew accusations from the opposition that Netanyahu doesn't want a deal. A man who murdered his mother with a hammer when he was a teenager in a plot inspired by Coronation Street has been moved to an open prison, it is understood. Daniel Bartlam was 14 when he killed mother Jacqueline at their home in Redhill, Nottingham, before burning her body in April 2011. He had been inspired to carry out the killing by a plot in the soap opera, where one of the characters - John Stape - had killed a woman with a hammer. Bartlam was jailed for 16 years in April 2012 after a jury unanimously found him guilty of murdering his 47-year-old mother. The Parole Board recommended Bartlam was moved to an open conditions prison, which has been approved by the Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, it is understood. The Sun has reported that Simon Matters, Jacqueline's partner, was asked to provide an impact statement when Bartlam applied to be moved to an open prison in January 2024. 'If he'd had an argument with Jacqui and pushed her down the stairs she banged her head and died it's different, but the fact is that he planned to kill her and he killed her. 'He's totally evil,' Mr Matters told the Sun. Daniel Bartlam (pictured) was 14 when he killed mother Jacqueline at their home in Redhill, Nottingham , before burning her body in April 2011. He has now been moved to an open prison, it is understood Bartlam was jailed for 16 years in April 2012 after a jury unanimously found him guilty of murdering his 47-year-old mother, Jacqueline (pictured) Murder weapon: The lump hammer recovered from the Bartlam family home and used by Bartlam 'How can you release someone for good behaviour after they did what he did?' Bartlam hit his mother seven times with a claw hammer at their home in April 2011. He then poured petrol around her bedroom before lighting newspaper on a gas fire and setting the property alight. Ms Bartlam could be identified only by dental records, after her body was recovered from the blaze on April 25. The Parole Board said parole reviews are undertaken 'thoroughly and with extreme care' and protecting the public is its 'number one priority'. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: 'We can confirm that the Parole Board recommended a move to an open conditions prison following an oral hearing for Daniel Bartlam. 'This was a recommendation only and the Secretary of State for Justice considers the advice before making the final decision on whether a prisoner is suitable for open conditions. 'We will only make a recommendation for open conditions if a Parole Board panel is satisfied that the risk to the public has reduced sufficiently to be manageable in an open prison. Bartlam poured petrol around his mother's bedroom before lighting newspaper on a gas fire and setting the property alight. Pictured: The remains of Jacqueline Bartlam's bedroom following the blaze caused by her son Bartlam had been inspired to carry out the killing by a plot in Coronation Street, where one of the characters - John Stape (pictured) - had killed a woman with a hammer 'A move to open conditions involves testing the prisoner's readiness for any potential return into the community in future. Prisoners moved to open conditions can be returned to closed conditions if there is concern about their behaviour. 'Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public. 'A panel will carefully examine a huge range of evidence, including details of the original crime, and any evidence of behaviour change, as well as explore the harm done and impact the crime has had on the victims. 'Members read and digest hundreds of pages of evidence and reports in the lead up to an oral hearing. 'Evidence from witnesses including probation officers, psychiatrists and psychologists, officials supervising the offender in prison as well as victim personal statements are then given at the hearing. 'The prisoner and witnesses are then questioned at length during the hearing which often lasts a full day or more.' A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'Life-sentenced prisoners must pass a robust risk assessment before any move to open conditions and we do not hesitate to move them back to closed prisons if they break the rules.' It comes after in 2012 Mr Matters blamed horror films and violent games for the teenager's violent behavior. Mr Matters said Bartlam had been fascinated by violent video games rated 18 and DVDs, including Nightmare on Elm Street and the Evil Dead series, since the age of eight. Bartlam also watched the torture-themed film Saw just hours before murdering his mother. 'It must have had an impact because any normal thinking person wouldn't have done what he did unless he got something imprinted in his brain from what he watched,' Mr Matters added. He also believes measures need to be put in place to prevent 18 rated films and video games being sold to young people. Bob Geldof dismissed African leaders as very weak as he lobbied Tony Blair to spearhead a campaign to boost aid to Africa. The former rock star was scathing about the ability and worthiness of virtually all African leaders, according to newly released files in the National Archives in Kew, west London. The LiveAid campaigner persuaded the former PM to establish a Commission for Africa which led to a landmark agreement to help the continent. But behind the scenes, Mr Geldof was not keen on the idea of Mr Blair sharing leadership of the report with an African leader. The idea was first mooted by Mr Geldof in 2003 when he called for a Marshall Plan for Africa in a reference to the US plan to rebuild Europe after the Second World War. He said the 20th anniversary of LiveAid and the UKs presidency of the G8 would be the perfect time to propose more help to the continent. He also warned that unless we found a way to allow Africans to make livelihoods at home they would come to our shores, resulting in massive social upheaval. African leadership had been very weak, he said, with him going on to criticise the ability and worthiness of the continents leaders. Bob Geldof (pictured) was not keen on Tony Blair sharing leadership of a Commission for Africa with an African leader, dismissing the continent's leaders as 'very weak' The PMs officials warned him that the Government could face opprobrium from Mr Geldof if they were unable to deliver on the plan LiveAid Campaigner Mr Geldof persuaded Mr Blair to set up the commission, an eventually paid tribute to the agreement which included a pledge to double aid and cancel debt The files reveal he wrote to Mr Blair saying: I know Im pushy, and I know youre up to your neck, but something short of the normal seven-week delay response would be welcome (do you use Royal Mail?). Seriously though, this must be implemented almost immediately. The PMs officials warned him that the Government could face opprobrium from Mr Geldof and his fellow LiveAid campaigner Bono if they were unable to deliver on the plan. Liz Lloyd, a senior adviser on international development, voiced concerns over Mr Geldofs desire that the commission, while being chaired Mr Blair, should still be independent. She also said the issue of whether there should be a chairperson from Africa which the former rock star strongly opposed was particularly tricky. He is scathing about the ability and worthiness of virtually all African leaders and sees the audience as primarily the US, she noted. He therefore does not want an African co-chair, content to ride with your name to give it credibility. Mr Geldof later paid tribute to the agreement and said the pledge to double aid and cancel debt was mission accomplished. Tony Blair's Labour government pressed ahead with unrestricted migration from eastern Europe despite mounting concerns among senior ministers, according to newly-released official files. Papers released to the National Archives in Kew, west London, show deputy prime minister John Prescott and foreign secretary Jack Straw both urged delay, warning of a surge in immigration unless some controls were put in place. But others - including home secretary David Blunkett - argued that the economy needed the 'flexibility and productivity of migrant labour' if it was to continue to prosper. The files from their discussions leading up to the EU's enlargement in May 2004 suggest the government knew its immigration claims were ludicrously low. Ministers had insisted between 5,000 and 13,000 migrants would come each year when former Soviet bloc countries such as Poland joined the EU on May 1 that year. In the end, more than a million people from eight new member countries made the UK their home. Whitehall papers from the time reveal growing unease behind the scenes in Downing Street as the numbers soared. As the numbers arriving began far outstripping previous estimates, one official said they faced an 'elephant trap' and advised ministers to 'err on the side of publishing less rather than more' when it came to releasing official data. Tony Blair with then foreign minister Jack Straw. National Archives papers show Mr Straw was among ministers urging Blair to delay allowing migration from eastern Europe Then deputy prime minister John Prescott (pictured) said he was 'extremely concerned' about the pressures on social housing from a sudden influx of migrants Mr Straw later admitted that the failure to put in place any transitional controls - as nearly all other EU nations had done - had been a 'spectacular mistake' which had far-reaching consequences. It was widely seen as having contributed to a major increase in immigration in the years that followed - with net migration rising to more than 200,000 a year - with cheap labour from Poland and other new member states blamed for undercutting local workers. With successive governments struggling to get the numbers back under control, it helped fuel the anti-EU sentiment which ultimately led to the 2016 Brexit vote. By November 2004, instead of the 6,000 or so immigrants they claimed would come, some 91,000 from the new EU countries had registered to work here. A Downing Street memo noted this 'far exceeds the Home Office prediction of 13,000 [a year]', and advises ministers to answer uncomfortable questions by saying: 'This was never an 'official' Home Office estimate'. Britain was the only major EU economy to give the new citizens free access to its labour markets - along with Ireland and Sweden - while others such as Germany and France opted to keep them out. It had been expected that other member states would follow Britain's bold decision. However, with less than three months to go, Mr Straw wrote to Mr Blair calling for a rethink, warning that the situation had changed dramatically in the intervening period. 'If we do not think this through now, I believe we could be faced with a very difficult situation in early May, and could then be forced to take urgent action to suspend the concessions,' he warned. He was backed by Mr Prescott who said he was 'extremely concerned' about the pressures on social housing from a sudden influx of new migrants. Blair's Home Secretary David Blunkett urged him to stick to the plan However Mr Blunkett, backed by work and pensions secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, insisted they should stick with the plan. Heathrow's OTT tanks When Tony Blair mysteriously sent tanks and 450 troops with automatic rifles to guard Heathrow Airport in February 2003, startled passengers suspected a cynical ruse by the PM to gain support for his imminent invasion of Iraq. At the time, Mr Blair insisted he was responding to a 'real threat' from terrorists Al Qaeda. Today, newly-released minutes from the Cabinet meeting of February 13 that year reveal ministers said 'the armed forces had not been expected to use their military hardware quite so visibly', and admitted: 'This had, perhaps, led to the threat seeming more dramatic than was in reality the case'. Advertisement Mr Blair, it appeared, was beginning to have his own doubts, questioning whether tougher benefit rules would be enough. 'Are we sure this does the trick? I don't want to have to return to it,' he said in a handwritten note. A warning of a possible influx of Roma people from Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia seeking to claim UK benefits only added to his concerns about the need to send out a deterrent message. 'We must do the toughest package on benefits possible & announce this plus power to revoke visa plan and message to Romas,' he scrawled in a handwritten aside. Other papers suggest the government knew full well that its 5,000 to 13,000 estimate was unrealistically lower than the true likely numbers. Mr Blair's private secretary Kate Gross wrote a memo in April 2004, two weeks before the new countries joined the EU, letting the cat out of the bag. Referring to job vacancies for low-skilled professions such as farm workers, she told the PM 'we expect demand [for these roles] to be met by EU free movement of workers'. At the time, the number of such vacancies in the UK was approximately 300,000 - vastly higher than the 13,000 a year which ministers were telling the public would come. By the end of 2004, just over half the new arrivals were from Poland, with the next biggest contingent from Lithuania, then Slovakia. In an echo of recent Conservative prime ministers who tried to bring in schemes such as Rwanda - opposed by Labour - the papers show that Mr Blair told his Cabinet on February 17, 2003, that a 'policy of deterrence' was the 'only' way to 'tackle the problem' of rising asylum numbers. He is recorded as having said that while 'this could lead to accusations of rough justice...that was inevitable if the asylum system was to be restored to manageable levels'. Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick said: 'Tony Blair is the original architect of mass migration. 'He started it and forced it though despite fierce opposition from the public and within his own cabinet. 'Thirty years later, many of our cities are unrecognisable. We are poorer and more divided for Blair's disastrous experiment.' The last time Britain sent him off to foreign lands, Peter Mandelson launched a hush-hush operation to dig into the personal and political lives of his new EU colleagues, files from 2004 reveal. Now poised to be our ambassador in Washington, Lord Mandelson will be discreetly researching his likely allies and enemies, if history is anything to go by. For when the last Labour government sent him to Brussels as an EU commissioner in 2004, he asked the Foreign Office to quietly check out the backgrounds of his fellow commissioners from the other EU nations, the National Archives papers reveal. Among the reports he got back was about how his Hungarian counterpart had a mistress who was a former elite prostitute. In the summer of 2004, after the now Lord Mandelson had twice been forced to quit in disgrace as a Cabinet minister, he was given a political lifeline by Tony Blair who made him Britains choice as an EU commissioner. Behind the scenes, Mandelson nicknamed the Prince of Darkness due to his Machiavellian manoeuvrings wasted no time in getting the Foreign Office to start digging. A Downing Street letter dated August 23, 2004, reveals: He would like to know rather more about his colleagues. Written by Kim Darroch, who at the time was a senior diplomat advising the Prime Minister on Europe, it says Mandelson wanted to go beyond the official biographies of his fellow incoming EU commissioners. Peter Mandelson asked the Foreign Office to dig into EU colleagues when he was dispatched to Brussels as an EU commissioner in 2004 The EU commissioners in Brussels (Lord Mandelson is pictured at the centre rear) Mr Darroch duly instructed the 24 British ambassadors in each of the other European capitals: He would like to know about their politics, their personalities, their interests away from work, any attitudes towards the UK in short, what makes them tick. Mr Darroch stressed the need to discreetly establish information and asked for reports within four days. John Nichols, ambassador to Hungary, responded with a dispatch to the Foreign Office marked confidential about Hungarian commissioner Laszlo Kovacs, a former communist. Kovacs, 65, had no great grasp of the detail of EU business, and his personal life was complicated, reported the UKs envoy in Budapest, who wrote: He is still married with one daughter, but in typical Hungarian fashion spends more time with his mistress, a former elite prostitute, Eva Endrenyi, who, according to some, will accompany him to Brussels. Eva Endrenyi holds up a pair of Laszlo Kovacs pants in a photoshoot for Hungarian media after their relationship had ended A letter written by Sir Kim Darroch (pictured) said that Mandelson wanted to go beyond the official biographies written by his fellow incoming commissioners Britains ambassador to Latvia reported that its countrys commissioner, Ingrida Udre, was an elegant and vivacious 40-something who likes to sing but frets at her weight-gain as deskwork now outstrips exercise. From Slovenia, the British ambassador reported that incoming commissioner Janez Potocnik likes his grub and going to the pub. The reports were collated for Mandelson who served as EU trade commissioner from 2004 to 2008 by Mr Darroch, now Sir Kim, who himself went on to become Britains ambassador to the United States, the post Lord Mandelson, 71, will take up in the New Year. Younger voters are deserting the Greens, damaging the party's ambitions to take the Senate balance-of-power in the upcoming election, according to a new poll. A Resolve Political Monitor poll for Nine newspapers showed 23 per cent of voters aged 18 to 34, down from 27 per cent in the previous survey. The figure is below the level recorded at the last election. Greens leader Adam Bandt would be particularly concerned support is leaking back to Labor and the Coalition in the inner city electorates where left-wing party has enjoyed its greatest support. Resolve director Jim Reed said voters were starting to 'peel away' from the Greens in the demographics where they traditionally flourished. 'We've noted a drop in Greens vote nationally this year, but most concerning for them will be that the loss is hardest in their traditional bases of younger and inner-city voters,' he said. 'Any minor party needs their vote share to be concentrated in particular seats, because if it's too spread out, it doesn't convert into elected MPs.' A decline in support would put pressure on the Greens to keep the three lower-house Queensland seats they won in the 2022 federal election: Brisbane, Ryan and Griffith. Greens leader Adam Bandt would be particularly concerned support is bleeding away to the major parties in the inner city electorates where the upstart minor party has traditionally enjoyed its greatest success In October's Queensland state election, the Greens lost South Brisbane to Labor and only just hung onto Maiwar with a narrow win over the LNP. Mr Bandt had boldly talked up the chances of winning more lower-house seats at the election due early next year, nominating Brisbane's Moreton, Melbourne's Wills and Macnamara, Richmond on the north coast of NSW and Sturt in Adelaide's east as winnable. However the latest poll suggest the Greens will have to put resources into retaining existing seats rather than targeting more, and trying to maintain its dozen members in the Senate. Since the last election the Greens have also lost a Senator with Victoria's Lidia Thorpe quitting the party in February 2023 over differing positions towards the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament. She later said she was lodging a Human Rights Commission action against the Greens, claiming she experienced racism during her time in the organisation. The Greens in return caused a Labor Upper House defection when WA Labor Senator Fatima Payman crossed the floor in June to vote with the minor party on a motion recognising Palestinian statehood and subsequently split from the ALP. This was part of a turbulent year for relations between the Greens and the Albanese government. A Resolve Political Monitor poll for Nine newspapers showed voters aged 18 to 34 have cut their primary vote from 27 to 23 per cent in the final quarter of the year (stock image) After noisily demanding extra measures in two Labor housing bills the Greens eventually caved and passed both without amendment at Parliament's last sitting in November. During the previous stalemate the Greens were often forced to defend themselves against Labor attacks alleging they were frustrating efforts to help renters and first home buyers; two core groups of potential support. Both Labor and the Coalition have turned on the Greens over their condemnation of Israel's military actions in Gaza and the wider Middle East. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused the Greens of supporting violent protest actions and of disgusting many voters by falsely claiming Australia's role in the conflict was aiding 'genocide'. 'It is tragic that the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people are undermined by some people engaging in activity that completely alienates the Australian public,' he said in June. 'It is unacceptable that misinformation has been consciously and deliberately spread by some Greens senators and MPs who have engaged in this demonstration outside offices and online.' The firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue of Melbourne earlier this month led to accusations that the pro-Palestinian protests, largely supported by the Greens, have led to an increase in violent anti-Semitism. Newpolls, conducted for The Australian, have also shown Greens support sliding nationally during the last quarter from 13 per cent to 12 per cent. The Norman Zarate Police and Municipal Court Building is seen, Friday, Oct.11, 2024, in Bellaire. An officer with the Bellaire Police Department has died from injuries suffered in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the department said in a Monday post on Facebook. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer An officer with the Bellaire Police Department has died from injuries suffered in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the department said in a Monday post on Facebook. Seventy-three-year-old Officer Mark Herman not to be confused with the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable suffered severe head trauma in an accident while cleaning up at his home after Hurricane Beryl, according to a fundraiser set up by his family. He died Saturday from complications related to his injuries, his family said in an update. Bellaire Police Department Officer Mark Herman, who was injured at home during Hurricane Beryl cleanup, passed away from his injuries in late December. Photo courtesy of Bellaire Police Department "This is especially devastating because he was showing signs of improvement and he fought so hard since the accident July 8, the update read. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. He was the most amazing dad and grandaddy that anyone could ever ask for. He just wanted to take care of everyone and make sure people were safe." Advertisement Article continues below this ad The GoFundMe that was established to help fund his medical care fell just shy of its $20,000 goal, with more than $18,000 in contributions as of Monday evening. The Bellaire Police Department said on Facebook that Herman initially worked for the department in the 80s, before retiring with the Fort Bend County Sheriffs Office. After retirement, Herman returned to Bellaire in 2021 to work as a bailiff, the department said. We thank Mark for nearly 48 years of service as a police officer, the departments post read. During this exceptionally challenging time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to their family. We wish them strength and support as they navigate this painful situation. The announcement prompted emotional tributes and farewells from former friends and colleagues. Christopher Barber, an attorney and police supervisor at the Bellaire Police Department, said he was issued the same badge number Herman had as an officer in the 80s. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mark was Badge 330 when he was with Bellaire in the 80s. Im Badge 330 now, Barber said in a Facebook comment. I hope to honor the legacy. MORE FROM THE CHRONICLE: Police give 'all clear' after responding to Bellaire High School for reported bomb threat Linda Hollaway, a former Bellaire Police Department officer who worked with Herman in the 80s, said she didnt have to think twice about rehiring him when he returned to the department in 2021. Mark and I worked patrol together at BPD in the 80s. I think he was the last person I hired before I retired in 2021, she said on Facebook. I didnt have to think twice when Mark said he was interested in coming back to Bellaire PD. Any agency would be lucky to have him. He was a great guy and will be missed by all. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Victoria's economy is now so sick that property investors are scared to buy a house in the state despite a surge in immigration. Before resigning as premier last year, Daniel Andrews imposed a flat $975 annual tax on investor land owners to repay $31.5billion worth of debt brought on by the state's excessive Covid lockdown. But for the average landlord with a $650,000 property, the average yearly cost rises to $1,300. Investors are now shying away from the state due to that tax and fears that further levies will be imposed by the deeply-indebted Labor government. The tax started in January 2024 and by April, Queensland had already overtaken Victoria as the state with the second-highest level of new investor loans, behind NSW. This is despite Queensland having almost 1.4million fewer residents than Victoria and a slower population growth pace due to Melbourne's vast numbers of migrants. Victoria has also slipped to third in new investor lending - a situation that last occurred in August 2009 after the worst of the Global Financial Crisis. Queensland now has a 22.6 per cent share of new investor loans, compared with Victoria's 19.9 per cent share. Victoria's economy is now so sick property investors are too scared to buy a house there despite a surge in overseas migration (pictured is an aerial view of Melbourne) Melbourne was Australia's worst performing capital city property market in 2024, despite receiving a big influx of overseas migrants (pictured, an auction in Melbourne) Brett Warren, a national director of buyers' agency Metropole, said Queensland was bound to have more investment properties than Victoria, if the trend continued. 'With Queensland's continued momentum, it's expected the state will surpass Victoria very soon, becoming Australia's second-largest property investor market,' he said. 'One key reason for this shift is the changing tax landscape in Victoria. 'The introduction of a flat-rate levy for property investors, combined with additional taxes on landholdings, has made Victoria a less attractive market for investors. 'Many have begun to look elsewhere, with Queensland becoming the new destination of choice.' Melbourne was Australia's worst performing capital city property market in 2024, despite receiving a big influx of overseas migrants. The city's median house price shrunk by 2.3 per cent in the year to November to $923,422, CoreLogic data showed. This occurred as Brisbane's equivalent mid-point house price climbed by 11 per cent to $974,396, with the Queensland capital in May overtaking Melbourne to become Australia's second most expensive big city market after Sydney. Before resigning as premier last year, Daniel Andrews (left with his successor Jacinta Allan) imposed a flat $975 annual investor land tax in a bid to repay $31.5billion worth of Covid debt House prices in Victoria have gone backwards even though the state's population growth pace of 2.4 per cent during the last financial year was actually stronger than Queensland's 2.3 per cent level. Queensland gets a big influx of interstate migrants fleeing Sydney and Melbourne, while Victoria relies more on overseas arrivals. 'As more people move to Queensland, driven by the more affordable cost of living and lifestyle benefits, the demand for housing continues to increase,' Mr Warren said. 'The lifestyle appeal of these areas is only growing, making Queensland an even more desirable location for both owner-occupiers and investors.' Unlike unaffordable Sydney, Melbourne isn't seeing a big exodus of local residents to other states in search of cheaper housing. On the housing front, that means the Victorian housing market is still strong for owner-occupier mortgages as investors continue to chase capital growth in Queensland. But Brisbane has a much lower rental vacancy rate of 1.1 per cent, compared with Melbourne's 2 per cent level, with the SQM Research data highlighting how Queensland is a more attractive place to be a landlord. 'As tax changes push investors out of Victoria and affordable, high-yield opportunities emerge in Queensland, it's likely that the Sunshine State will continue to gain momentum in the years to come,' Mr Warren said. When it comes to economy activity, Victoria's unemployment rate of 4.2 per cent is significantly higher than the national average of 3.9 per cent, which is also the jobless level for Queensland and NSW. Almost two thirds of transgender women in prisons who are legally recognised as men have been convicted of sex offences, new figures show. Some 151 of the 245 trans women in prison at the end of March 2024 have been convicted of at least one sexual offence, according to government figures. This is a rate of 62 per cent and is an increase on previous figures which showed that 49 per cent of trans women who reported their legal gender as male had a conviction for a sexual offence. This rate is far higher than that of the male prison population as a whole - with about 17 per cent of men in prison in England and Wales having been convicted of sexual offences. It comes as new figures show there were 295 prisoners who identify as transgender and do not have a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) at the end of March - an increase of 9.7 per cent from 2023. Of these, 245 identified as trans but reported their legal gender as male and did not have a GRC, an increase of 8.9 per cent from 2023. Meanwhile there were 50 prisoners who identify as trans but reported their legal gender as female and did not have a GRC at the end of March, an increase of 13.6 per cent from 2023. Some 244 of these prisoners were held in the male prison estate with the remaining 51 held in the female estate. In 2023 the rules were changed to prevent trans women with male genitalia, or those who had been convicted of a violent or sexual offence, from being held in the womens prison estate. Exemptions to this rule can still be considered by ministers in exceptional circumstances. Isla Bryson, who was convicted of two rapes and jailed for eight years. Nearly two thirds of transgender women in prisons who are still legally recognised as men have been convicted of sex offences A rule change in 2023 meant trans women with male genitalia, or those convicted of violent or sexual offences were no longer allowed to be imprisoned in women's jails (file image) The move followed high profile cases including that of Isla Bryson, who began identifying as a trans woman while awaiting trial for two rapes. Bryson was convicted of rape in February 2023 and jailed for eight years. She was first sent to the all-female Cornton Vale prison in Scotland before being transferred to a male prison after the case sparked public outrage. Data from the Ministry of Justice also reveals there were 10 prisoners that had been issued with a full GRC - meaning they have legally changed their gender under the Gender Recognition Act - a reduction of 3 since 2023. These prisoners were not included in the transgender prison figures. Separate data revealed in response to a written parliamentary question shows that 151 of the 254 trans prisoners who reported their legal gender as male at the end of March were convicted of a sexual offence. Meanwhile five or fewer of the 50 trans prisoners who reported their legal gender as female were convicted of a sex offence, a rate of up to ten per cent. This is a reduction on the previous rate of 13 per cent but is higher than the female prison population as a whole, with about 2 per cent of women in prison in England and Wales for sex offences. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: Well over 90 per cent of transgender women in custody are held in the mens estate and those whove been convicted of sexual or violent offences - and/or who retain male genitalia - cannot be held in a womens prison unless in truly exceptional circumstances. A Tesla driver who complained about a stranger kicking his car has sparked backlash over a glaring detail in security footage. Luke Erwin, a social media personality based on the Gold Coast, had been driving out of a car park when the incident occurred last Monday. Mr Erwin shared security footage from the Tesla and claimed in the video Australians seemed to have 'lost the plot'. 'I go out of the car park, everything's all good, you know?' he said. 'It's all good, everything's all chill.' He played footage of a stranger kicking the back of his car as he pulled onto the street. 'Now see this person here comes out of nowhere,' Mr Erwin said. Footage showed a person wearing jeans kick the back of the vehicle as they tried to cross the driveway. A Tesla driver who complained about a stranger kicking his car has sparked backlash over a glaring issue Mr Erwin claimed his Tesla was 'getting that much hate' and said he was left stunned by the incident. 'Like, what is going on in the world?' he said. 'Everyone has lost the plot, bro, like I, I just slowed down.' Mr Erwin captioned the video: 'Something's in the water.' Social media users were not sympathetic towards Mr Erwin with many claiming he should have given way to the pedestrian crossing the driveway. 'It appears that you didn't stop for pedestrians,' one wrote. Some pointed out there was a stop sign painted on the end of the driveway. 'As you said you slowed down but it said stop. You didn't stop,' one wrote. Luke Erwin, a social media personality based on the Gold Coast, had been driving out of a car park when the incident occurred last Monday 'You nearly took out a pedestrian ya gronk,' a third wrote. A few offered their support to Mr Erwin and agreed 'something's in the water'. 'Something is definitely in the water.. a guy tried to run me over the day for crossing the road,' one wrote. 'That's crazy, Luke. Hope your car is alright bro,' another wrote. One follower said they experienced similar issues in their electric vehicle. 'I get the same thing in my BYD can't believe how many people are against EVs.' Mr Erwin is no stranger to controversy and came under fire in 2022 when he filmed himself throwing cash on a homeless man in Sydney. Mr Erwin was seen raining $5 notes over the man's head as he sat on the pavement. 'Here we go, let's go, baby,' he laughed as notes fluttered to the ground while the man picked them up. 'It's all yours, mate. No one's going to take it from you, you f***ing sick c***,' he said. 'Don't get on a f***ing bender with that. That's yours, brother.' He then performed the same gesture to a homeless woman. Some social media users claimed the influencer had 'belittled' the man and questioned if he was just donating for social media clout, while others said the stunt was 'degrading'. 'Personally I would just hand it to the poor bloke,' one user commented. 'The real flex is doing it off camera,' a third wrote. 'I don't get this. a few weeks ago I brought a guy a tent bedding clothes and a pouch of smokes. I didn't film it and missed out on buying myself a PS4,' a fourth shared. Another said: 'That's disgusting. It's getting out of hand now. You help because you want to make a change not to get likes.' The brazen Ohio teacher who reportedly called out sick to go to a Nashville concert is fighting back against the school that fired her. Eileen Washburn, a former English teacher at Lakota West High School in Liberty Township, has filed a lawsuit against the Lakota Local School District. In the document, she argued she was wrongfully terminated after the school board accused her of 'falsified sick leave' from February 8 to February 9 to go see a musical performance with her teenage son. The board placed Washburn on unpaid leave in April, claiming she had bragged about going to the concert to her coworkers and failed to provide details about why she needed sick leave. But in October, the English teacher was officially fired from the high school, as outlined in the lawsuit. Washburn asserted that her actions were not fireable offences and other teachers were 'disciplined less harshly or not disciplined at all for using sick pay when they were not sick,' according to the document. Eileen Washburn, an English teacher at Lakota West High School, has filed a lawsuit against the school that fired her for calling out sick to go to a concert Washburn was officially fired from Lakota West High School in Liberty Township in October. She is now fighting to get her job back 'Ms. Washburn's conduct was not hostile to the school community and it could not have harmed the school community or students, as required to justify termination,' the document states. She also claimed that she did have a legitimate reason to call off sick those two days and gave the school a doctor's note explaining why she had to miss work. Washburn said she was 'reluctant' to respond to requests for additional information about her medical condition because it was a 'personal matter.' During the first school board meeting to discuss Washburn's 'fraudulent' sick leave, she alleged that the Executive Director of Human Resources Rob Kramer called her a 'liar.' In the lawsuit, Washburn demanded that she be reinstated to her teaching position. She also expects 'back pay and all contractual benefits and full restoration of seniority in all respects.' The school district responded to Washburn's claims in a counterfiling, stating that 'the record speaks for itself.' It is unclear who was performing at the concert that cost Washburn her job. She has been an Ohio educator for about two decades and has no other blemishes on her record, according to the lawsuit. Washburn allegedly called out sick in February to go to a Nashville concert with her teenage son The Lakota Local School District decided to place Washburn on unpaid leave in April Washburn taught ESL at the high school and still holds a position on the Loveland Board of Education. According to her profile page on the Loveland City School District's website, Washburn is married with kids, and has lived in the city of Loveland since 2005. She previously taught at Princeton High School before she moved on to teach English at Lakota West High School in 2015. Bosses are more likely to give pay rises and promotions to employees who go into the office instead of working from home, research shows. Nearly seven in ten companies said employees in office will go further and faster than colleagues who insist on staying at home. James Reed, owner of recruitment giant Reed which conducted the research, warned that employers are in the driving seat and will penalise those who do not show flexibility. It comes amid a tough jobs market with many firms pausing hiring after Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a 25billion increase to employer National Insurance contributions. But despite 68 per cent of the 251 businesses surveyed saying they would reward those who went to the office, a third of employees said that working from home would not damage their career progression. Mr Reed said: Business leaders have had enough of workers insisting they want to work from home most of the time. For those wanting to secure a good job, a promotion or pay rise our research shows that employers clearly want people back in the office. With the jobs market already cooling, a situation exacerbated by the recent Budget, employers are in the driving seat and will reward those that are willing to be more flexible and penalise those that arent. Bosses are more likely to give pay rises and promotions to employees who go into the office instead of working from home, research shows (stock image) A woman working from home. Nearly seven in ten companies said employees in office will go further and faster than colleagues who insist on staying at home (stock image) For those seeking employment or advancement in the workplace, my advice is be present. For example, he said, workers who are only mandated to be in the office two days per week should be there three or four times per week instead. Research showed the number of jobs advertised in 2024 was down 24 per cent compared to the previous year. Overall, 95 per cent of sectors saw a decrease in job postings across the UK. Meanwhile, the number of applications increased 19 per cent compared to a year earlier, meaning candidates faced tougher competition for each role. Chinese state-sponsored hackers breached the U.S. Treasury Department's computer security guardrails this month and stole documents in what Treasury called a 'major incident.' Treasury officials sounded the alarm about the breach in a letter to lawmakers on Monday that detailed the latest suspected Chinese hack on American technology and officials. The hackers compromised third-party cybersecurity service provider BeyondTrust and were able to access unclassified documents, the letter said. According to the letter, hackers 'gained access to a key used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support for Treasury Departmental Offices (DO) end users. 'With access to the stolen key, the threat actor was able to override the services security, remotely access certain Treasury DO user workstations, and access certain unclassified documents maintained by those users.' Earlier this month, US officials recommended that Americans use encrypted messages apps as AT&T and Verizon faced unprecedented cyberattacks from China. The Treasury Department said Monday it was alerted to the recent breach by BeyondTrust on Dec. 8 and that it was working with the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the FBI to assess the hack's impact. It said the hack was being investigated as a 'major cybersecurity incident.' Chinese state-sponsored hackers breached the U.S. Treasury Department's computer security guardrails this month and stole documents in what Treasury called a 'major incident.' Pictured: Chinese President Xi Jinping Treasury officials sounded the alarm about the breach in a letter to lawmakers that on Monday in the latest suspected Chinese hack on American technology and officials. Pictured: U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen 'Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds,' a department spokesperson said in a separate statement. 'Over the last four years, Treasury has significantly bolstered its cyber defense, and we will continue to work with both private and public sector partners to protect our financial system from threat actors.' Treasury officials didn't immediately respond to an email seeking further details about the hack. The FBI did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment, while CISA referred questions back to the Treasury Department. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rejected any responsibility for the hack, saying that Beijing 'firmly opposes the U.S.'s smear attacks against China without any factual basis.' BeyondTrust, based in Johns Creek, Georgia, did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but on its website, the company said it had recently identified a security incident that involved a limited number of customers of its remote support software. The statement said a digital key had been compromised in the incident and that an investigation was under way. Tom Hegel, a threat researcher at cybersecurity company SentinelOne, said it appeared the security incident described by BeyondTrust aligns closely with the reported hack at Treasury, though he cautioned that the company itself would need to confirm any connection. The Treasury Department said it was alerted to the breach by BeyondTrust on Dec. 8 and that it was working with the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the FBI to assess the hack's impact American flags are displayed with Chinese flags on top of a trishaw 'This incident fits a well-documented pattern of operations by PRC-linked groups, with a particular focus on abusing trusted third-party services - a method that has become increasingly prominent in recent years,' he said, using an acronym for the People's Republic of China. The revelation comes as U.S. officials are continuing to grapple with the fallout of a massive Chinese cyberespionage campaign known as Salt Typhoon that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. The cyberespionage campaign surfaced this year when hackers attacked networks of several telecommunications companies. The hackers used their access to target the metadata of a large number of customers, including information on the dates, times and recipients of calls and texts. They also succeeded in retrieving the actual audio files of calls and content from texts from a much smaller number of victims. Despite months of investigation, the true scale of China's operation, including the total number of victims or whether the hackers still have some access to information, is currently unknown. Several recent high-profile hacking incidents have been linked to China and what officials say is Beijing's effort to steal technical and government secrets while also gaining access to critical infrastructure such as the electrical grid. In September, the FBI announced that it had disrupted a vast Chinese hacking operation that involved the installation of malicious software on more than 200,000 consumer devices, including cameras, video recorders and home and office routers. In September, the FBI announced that it had disrupted a vast Chinese hacking operation that involved the installation of malicious software on more than 200,000 consumer devices, including cameras, video recorders and home and office routers A new report claimed that Todd Blanche's cellphone was hacked months ago by Chinese cybercriminals. The FBI refused to comment on the matter. Blanchard is the criminal attorney of President-elect Donald Trump The devices were then used to create a massive network of infected computers, or botnet, that could then be used to carry out other cyber crimes. In October, officials said hackers linked to China targeted the phones of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance, along with people associated with Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris. China has rejected accusations from US officials that it engages in cyberespionage directed against Americans. The nation's government 'firmly opposes and combats all kinds of cyber attacks,' spokesperson Liu Pengyu wrote in a statement emailed to The Associated Press. 'The US needs to stop its own cyberattacks against other countries and refrain from using cyber security to smear and slander China.' A top White House official said Friday that the number of telecommunications companies affected by the hack has now risen to nine. Two young migrant children were abandoned at the US border by smugglers who fled back to Mexico, leaving them with nothing but a note for authorities. Chris Olivarez, a spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety, announced on Saturday that its troopers recovered the two young girls, ages five and nine, from the Eagle Pass crossing. The girls, originally from El Salvador, carried only a handwritten note with an address and phone number, Olivarez said. They were then referred to US Border Patrol. The incident comes amid a surge in unaccompanied migrant children crossing the United States border, oftentimes with phone numbers of addresses of relatives written on paper or stitched to their clothing, according to Fox News. In such instances, the child is transferred to the Department of Health and Human Services and is released to a sponsor in the United States. But earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General shockingly revealed that over the past five years, more than 32,000 unaccompanied minors did not show up for immigration court hearings - and Immigration and Customs Enforcement was 'not able to account' for their locations. The report to Congress also noted that for more than 291,000 unaccompanied immigrant minors - or about two-thirds of the children who have made their way into the US - ICE had not bothered to serve them court dates. Two unaccompanied migrant girls from El Salvador were left abandoned at the border crossing in Eagle Pass with only a handwritten note It noted that the Department of Health and Human Services is responsible for placing migrant children with sponsors, but the agency lost track of tens of thousands of them after the children and their sponsors stopped responding. ICE, which is responsible for putting the children through immigration hearings, did not follow up with them either. The agency was not required to alert HHS when a child failed to show up, despite the department creating an email inbox for ICE to notify them when a child is a no-show at a deportation hearing. ICE officials were unable to tell the inspector general how often, if ever, deportation officers used it. In response to the report, ICE said it would send an alert telling officers to start using it. Meanwhile, the agency's fiscal year 2024 report found that despite a surge of more than 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children into the United States during the Biden administration, only 411 were removed, according to Fox. That is an increase from 212 during fiscal year 2023, but in fiscal year 2022, more than 4,000 unaccompanied migrant children were removed. To deal with the surge, incoming President Donald Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, has said the United States will return to a policy of putting unaccompanied migrant minors in detention centers - which were enforced under the first Trump administration. The incident comes amid a surge in unaccompanied migrant children crossing the United States border More than 50,000 unaccompanied migrant children have entered the United States during the Biden administration 'We need to show the American people we can do this and not be inhumane about it. We can't lose the faith of the American people,' he told the Washington Post. He said the Trump administration will try not to break families up if they deport the parents for being in the United States illegally. Instead, the families - who may have young children born in the United States - will be told to decide for themselves whether to exit the country together or be broken up. Ultimately, Homan says, the goal will be to keep families together, regardless of the legality of how either the parents or the children got to the United States. 'I'm not saying take them into custody. We'll let them get the child and put them in proceedings with the child, so they can go to court and plead their case as a family.' Incoming Border Czar Tom Homan plans to use 'family detention centers' seen in Donald Trump 's first term as part of the incoming administration's plan to get tough on illegal migration Biden had ended the use of the detention centers in 2021 by closing three dormitory-like facilities with approximately 3,000 beds But Biden had ended the use of the detention centers in 2021 by closing three dormitory-like facilities with approximately 3,000 beds, and Homan's proposal to bring them back has drawn ire from liberals. Christopher Webb, who describes himself as a 'lifelong Dem' wrote on X: 'CRUELTY IS STILL THE POINT.' Yet Homan plans to go even further, bringing back Trump's Remain in Mexico program - which forced asylum seekers to wait outside the country while they pled their case to American courts. Biden also ended this in 2021. Homan admitted that 'at the beginning' illegal entries could rise slightly - this year, numbers are down after the Biden administration allowed numbers to get alarmingly high in 2023 - but eventually, the Trump programs will deter people from coming. 'They're going to try to come illegally, but once the message is clear that we're ending catch-and-release, the numbers will reduce.' Wild footage has captured the moment a Mercedes driver and a man with a mullet began brawling in the middle of a busy highway on the Gold Coast. The bizarre road rage incident was filmed at an intersection near Somerset Drive, in Mudgeeraba at 3.30pm on Christmas Eve. In the video, the two men are seen getting out of their vehicles at a set of traffic lights after the man with the mullet overtook and cut in front of the Mercedes. After one of the men pushed the other in the chest, the pair exchanged punches and kicks before the Mercedes driver was slammed against his car. Drivers travelling behind the pair were brought to a standstill as the men spun around in circles trying to break free from the other's grip. The men continued to jostle for over a minute until a third man - wearing a Street Fighter t-shirt - intervened and forced them back to their vehicles. The mullet-haired motorist was seen casually jogging back to his ute and driving away, allowing the flow of traffic to resume on the busy highway. Viewers saw the funnier side of the altercation. The driver of the Mercedes was slammed up against his car during the bizarre daylight brawl Drivers were brought to a standstill as the men exchanged punches and kicks (pictured) 'They wanted to cuddle more than they did brawl,' one person wrote. Others praised the bystander who was forced to break up the fight. 'Good on the guy for breaking it up, but he could have ended up the victim there,' a second person commented. 'Lmao at the street fighter tee shirt,' a third wrote. A Queensland Police spokesman told Daily Mail Australia police have not been made aware of the incident. 'Anyone with information in relation to this incident is encouraged to report it to police,' the spokesman said. Donald Trump ally and MAGA warrior Steve Bannon tore into high-tech visas for foreigners Monday and ridiculed reform efforts proposed by billionaire Elon Musk in the latest skirmish in an internecine war in Trump's circle. Bannon, who served as Trump's chief White House strategist and recently popped up at Mar-a-Lago where Musk is reportedly renting a $2,000-per-night cottage weighed in by bashing the 'group hug' mentality of Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who touted the program on X. Ramaswamy and Musk's defense prompted a furious rebuke from far right personality Laura Loomer, who accused Ramaswamy of undermining Trump's agenda who railed against 'tech bros' she accused of driving Trump's agenda. After the rift escalated over the weekend, Bannon weighed in on his 'War Room Pandemic' podcast. 'No, no. This is central to how they gutted the middle class in this country. And we haven't fought these battles for years and years and years to allow American citizens of every race eth religion be gutted by the sociopathic overlords in Silicon Valley.' He called out Musk and Ramaswamy, as well as tech entrepreneur David Sacks, who Trump has nominated to advise him on crypto and artificial intelligence. 'Oh we're just trying to reform it,' Bannon said with dripping sarcasm. 'No there's no reformation. No reform. We want it gone. We demand that it's gone. We're going to want to fight for this,' Bannon said. 'And not just gone. I've got another alternative. We want reparations for the tech workers that you stole their lives. You stole their lives!' Amid the fury, Trump himself weighed in Saturday, telling the New York Post, 'Ive always liked the visas, I have always been in favor of the visas. Thats why we have them.' 'You stole their lives'! Trump ally Steve Bannon demanded compensation for high tech workers as he inveighed against H-1B visas in the latest skirmish in the MAGA civil war over the issue Bannon was unpersuaded. He said Monday, 'The workers that are here on H-1B visas should be deported at the same time were deporting the 15 million illegal aliens Biden brought across the border to suppress wages to low-income workers. 'American workers should be hired immediately to fill those gaps, and then we should start the discussions on reparations, on what they knowingly did to American tech workers.' The MAGA civil war just days before Trump is set to take office came immediately before the president-elect ordered his nominees not to post on social media without approval. In a stunning move, Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles told those who will become his top lieutenants to get anything they put on X, or other networks, cleared first. 'While this instruction has been delivered previously, I am reiterating that no member of the incoming administration or Transition speaks for the United States or the President-elect himself,' Wiles wrote in a memo reported by the New York Post. 'Accordingly, all intended nominees should refrain from any public social media posts without prior approval of the incoming White House counsel.' It was unclear what sparked the crackdown but Senate confirmation hearings for Cabinet nominees are due to start in the new year. Earlier this week, Tesla billionaire Musk, who will head Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), threatened to 'go to war' with MAGA Republicans as he defended visas for skilled foreigners. Trump sided with Musk after a fierce debate, including on social media, sent some of his supporters into a meltdown. Trump chief of staff Susie Wiles called for nominees to get their social media posts approved Donald Trump sided with Elon Musk in a MAGA 'civil war' over visas for skilled migrant workers It also came as Democratic senators are fiercely fighting some of Trump's Cabinet picks for his second administration. They have little power to prevent Trump's choices from taking their new posts. After the 2024 election the Senate flipped red giving Republicans more seats. Cabinet confirmations only require a simple majority in the 100-member chamber. That means, as long as Republicans stick together, Trump should be able to put his team in place in the new year. The most controversial picks include Pete Hegseth to lead the Pentagon, and Kash Patel for head of the FBI. Also in the spotlight are Robert Kennedy Jr., who Trump wants to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Tulsi Gabbard, who he wants as his Director of National Intelligence. Tulsi Gabbard and other Cabinet picks have ben told to get their social media posts approved by the incoming White House counsel Pete Hegseth will also need to get any posts approved The incoming White House counsel who will approve nominees' social media posts, is expected to be David Warrington. Last month, Trump announced that Warrington, his top campaign lawyer, would serve in the role. Trump said: 'Dave has represented me well as my personal attorney, and as General Counsel for my Presidential Campaign. He is an esteemed lawyer and Conservative leader.' The recent row involving Musk was over his support for the H-1B visa program, which allows highly educated immigrants to work in the U.S. for up to six years. Tech companies have used H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers and say they are a critical tool for hard-to-fill positions. But some members of Trump's movement have accused Musk, and others in Trump's new flank of tech-world supporters, of pushing policies at odds with the 'America First' vision. Elon Musk walks on Capitol Hill on the day of a meeting with Senate Republican Leader-elect John Thune (R-SD), in Washington, U.S. December 5, 2024 Robert F. Kennedy JR. will have to have any posts cleared by the incoming White House counsel Kash Patel is Trump's pick to head the FBI They argue the system undercuts U.S. citizens who could take those jobs and have called for it to be eliminated. Musk's remarks about the visas came after Ramaswamy, who will co-run the DOGE with him, suggested that American culture was to blame for its need to hire foreign workers. Trump's nominees will have their social media posts approved by the incoming White House counsel ahead of Senate confirmation hearings Incoming White House counsel David Warrington will give approval for social media posts by Cabinet nominees On Saturday, the president-elect praised the use of visas to bring skilled foreign workers to the U.S. In the past Trump has criticized the H-1B visas, calling them 'very bad' and 'unfair' for U.S. workers. During his first term as president, Trump unveiled a 'Hire American' policy that directed changes to the program to try to ensure the visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants. Despite his criticism of them and attempts to curb their use, he has also used the visas at his businesses in the past. Former US President George Bush believed he was on a mission from God and wanted to kick ass in Iraq before he realised the US was faring badly. The insight into the former leaders mind from the days of the Iraq War in 2003 was revealed by a senior American politician in new files released to the National Archives in Kew. Richard Armitage, deputy to then Secretary of State Colin Powell, gave a blunt assessment of the regimes chances of success in the Middle East. He told the British ambassador to Washington, David Manning, that US military figures were talking bull**** when they said they could defeat insurgents. He said some of the ideas were politically crass but added nevertheless Bush had been enthusiastic initially and had wanted to kick ass. This ended after he was warned that military action in Fallujah, Iraq, would lead to the collapse of the Governing Council and faced with this dose of reality, Bush had backed off. The row came after the former US president famously declared mission accomplished when Saddam Hussein was overthrown. George Bush believed he was on a mission from God and wanted to kick ass in Iraq before realising the US was faring badly Richard Armitage (pictured), then deputy secretary of state, had given a blunt assessment of chances of success in the Middle East Company Irish Guards fire on Iraqi troop positions in southern Iraq in April 2003. The row came after the former US president famously declared mission accomplished when Saddam Hussein was overthrown Former Secretary of State Colin Powell. His deputy Mr Armitage told British diplomat David Manning that authorising additional troops to deal with battles in the region would be 'politically ugly' for Bush The triumph proved short-lived as the country was engulfed in insurgency less than a year later, with violent battles in the region. Mr Armitage told the British diplomat that authorising additional troops to deal with this would be politically ugly for the president. He added: Rich summed it all up by saying that Bush still thought he was on some sort of mission from God but that recent events had made him rather more sober. Two weeks after the meeting, the US called off the offensive in Fallujah. American troops remained in Iraq until 2011. Tuesday, July 4, is Independence Day, an observed federal holiday. Most city offices will be closed. Emergency services including police and fire departments will be staffed as normal. David Bauer / Contributed photo Most U.S. residents are entitled to 11 federal holidays throughout the year. Although not all employees are necessarily guaranteed a day off on each holiday, most workplaces choose to either close entirely or employ reduced staffing. More than half of the holidays in 2025 come directly before or after a weekend meaning, with a little strategy, workers can maximize their paid time off by requesting vacation days that coincide with these long weekends. Considering that, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most U.S. workers get between 11 and 20 days of paid vacation leave per year, choosing when to take time off can mean the difference between a two-day trip to Galveston and a week-long getaway in South Padre Island. While it's likely too late to request time off for the first holiday of 2025 New Year's Day on Wednesday there's still more than enough time to plan a vacation around the other 10 federal holidays. Here's the full holiday schedule for 2025, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Loading... Keep reading to see how you can make the most of your holiday time for each season in 2025. Spring Rep. Morgan Luttrell, R-Texas, a Navy veteran speaks during the Memorial Day Observance at Montgomery County Veteran's Park on Monday, May 29, 2023 in Conroe. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Employees looking to take a trip between the months of March and May have little to work with in terms of federal holidays. Memorial Day on May 26 is the only holiday scheduled for spring, but since it always falls on a Monday, it still offers an opportunity to make efficient use of paid time off. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There are also a number of events that take place in Houston every Memorial Day, including the annual commemoration ceremony at Houston National Cemetery. Each year, residents gather at the cemetery to remember the country's fallen veterans, and often features speeches from prominent Houstonians and veterans. Here's how to make the most of the spring holiday: Workers can request the Thursday (May 22) and Friday (May 23) off ahead of the long weekend to score five days of rest and relaxation leading into Memorial Day. Summer An American flag flies on the gates surrounding Moody Mansion on Juneteenth, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Galveston. The national holiday marks the day in 1865 when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached Galveston, over two years after it was signed. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Juneteenth National Independence Day was signed into law as a federal holiday in 2021 by President Joe Biden. The holiday became the second to fall between the months of July and August alongside Independence Day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad WHAT TO DO: The best Houston-area summer attractions Because the two holidays are among those celebrated on specific dates as opposed to those observed on particular days such as Thanksgiving Day and Labor Day, they present unique scheduling opportunities that change each year. This year, Juneteenth falls on Thursday, June 19th, and Independence Day is on a Friday, July 4. Juneteenth falling on Thursday, June 19, presents an excellent opportunity for workers to take an extended, four-day weekend. July is Houston's second-hottest month, according to the National Weather Service. Residents who want to escape the heat can do so, at least temporarily, by taking advantage of July 4 falling on a Friday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fall Alice Cartenas, left, points out a large unicorn inflatable to her sister, Angie, during the 75th annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, in Houston. The parade, which started in 1949 and is one of the oldest in the county, traversed more than 20 blocks as several hundred thousand Houstonians lined the streets to see elaborate floats, marching bands and high-flying balloons. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer There are four federal holidays between September and the end of November. Labor Day (Sept. 1) and Columbus Day (Oct. 13), both fall on a Monday, while Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 27) lands on a Thursday and Veterans Day (Nov. 11) is on a Tuesday. With four federal holidays, fall is tied with winter for the most holidays. Thanksgiving Day can become Thanksgiving weekend by requesting the following Friday off. Both Labor Day and Columbus day, or Indigenous Peoples' Day, can be turned into a extended long weekend with the right request. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Winter Fans dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus are seen during the first half of an NFL football game, Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024, in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer There are four federal holidays, including New Year's, between December and February. Long winter weekends Martin Luther King Jr. Day is always celebrated on the third Monday of January. As such, the holiday presents the perfect opportunity to plan an extended weekend vacation. Similarly, Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February. The holiday is another opportunity to score a five-day weekend for those willing to request the preceding Thursday and Friday off (Feb. 13-14). Christmas vacation: Nine days off for four vacation days A prominent Beverly Hills plastic surgeon has been accused of drugging, raping and recording a woman while she was unconscious. Babak Hajhosseini, 42, was arrested on November 26 after a woman reported the founder of the Wound and Burn Centers of America to the police. Only one woman has come forward so far, but police have reason to believe there are other victims and are urging them to come forward. Hajhosseini allegedly used job recruiting websites to lure women to his home, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) claimed. He boasted of treating residents in some of the city's most ritzy neighborhoods. The LAPD wrote in a statement: 'Hajhosseini used job recruiting websites and offered high hourly wages to locate and entice potential victims. 'He would then invite the potential victims to work overtime hours at his residence.' The alleged victim told police Hajhosseini forced her to drink an alcoholic beverage that made her lose consciousness. Hajhosseini was granted bail three days after his November arrest after his $2 million bond was posted. On December 23, the Office of District Attorney filed several charges against him. Babak Hajhosseini, 42, was arrested on November 26 for reportedly drugging and raping a woman. Now, police are looking for other victims Hajhosseini is the founder of he Wound and Burn Centers of America, headquartered in the ritsy Beverly Grove area These include two counts of rape by use of drugs, one count of rape of an unconscious or asleep person, one count of oral copulation by anesthesia or controlled substance, and four counts of oral copulation of an unconscious or asleep person. The Wound and Burn Centers of America's main office is inside of the Cedar-Sinai Medical Office Towers, located in Los Angeles' ritzy Beverly Grove neighborhood where the median home cost is $1.9 million, according to Redfin. Hajhosseini's burn center is the 'world's leading provider of wound healing services,' according to the office's website. The center provides care across Southern California, including the city of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Malibu, Orange County, Inland Empire and Catalina Island. Hajhosseini allegedly used job recruiting websites to lure women to his home. He was bonded out of jail just three days after his arrest Hajhosseini belongs to several medical associations, including the Wound Healing Society, American Burn Association, American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons, according to the burn center's website. The accused surgeon 'has completed 16 years of rigorous medical education and training.' He founded the Wound and Burn Centers of America in 2022. According to his Facebook page, Hajhosseini did his residency at California's prestigious Stanford Medicine and was a clinical fellow at Stony Brook Medicine, located on Long Island, New York. The adult son of North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer was sentenced to serve 28 years in prison on Monday in connection with a wild chase in which he fled from a hospital and drove into a deputy's vehicle, killing the deputy. Ian Cramer, 43, pleaded guilty in September to all of the charges against him, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, fleeing an officer and drug- and driving-related offenses. The chaos took place in December 2023 during a chase and crash that killed Mercer County Sheriff's Deputy Paul Martin. State District Judge Bobbi Weiler handed down the sentence of 38 years with 10 years suspended, three years of probation and credit for over a year served in jail. She also included recommended treatment for addiction and mental health. But he likely won't serve the full 28 years, the judge said. 'The (state) Department of Corrections has their own policy on how much time you're going to serve,' Weiler said. 'These are not mandatory minimums, which means that you're probably going to serve a small portion of that 28 years and be out on parole, so that'll ... give you an opportunity to have a second chance that Deputy Martin does not have, nor does his family have.' Cramer, who wore orange and sat quietly next to his public defender, apologized to Martin's family when asked if he would like to speak. Deputies lead Ian Cramer, center, out of a courtroom at the Mercer County Courthouse in Stanton, North Dakota after bring sentenced to serve 28 years in prison Cramer was involved in a wild chase in which he fled from a hospital and drove into 53-year-old Mercer County Sheriff's Deputy Paul Martin's vehicle, killing the deputy Ian Cramer, right, sits in court during his sentencing proceeding as Mercer County State's Attorney Todd Schwarz, center, returns to his seat in Stanton, North Dakota on Monday 'I had no intention to do any of this. It was an accident, and I just hope that someday they can forgive me, and I think the best thing for me is to go to a hospital and just get more help,' Ian Cramer said. Much of the sentencing focused on Cramer's addiction and mental health. Mercer County State's Attorney Todd Schwarz, citing doctors, said Ian Cramer had been experiencing long-term effects of 'taking drugs to put himself into a mentally ill state.' Cramer admitted to using methamphetamine and bath salts the day of the crash, Schwarz said. Cramer's mother, Kris Cramer, read a statement in which she said her son 'has hurt his brain a lot on his own' and is dealing with a mental illness. She apologized and said, 'I really do feel responsible for what happened on December 6 2023.' Bismarck police said she had taken him to a hospital because of mental health concerns. Court documents say he crawled into the driver seat of his parents' vehicle after his mother got out and smashed in reverse through the closed garage door of the hospital's ambulance bay. He later fled from deputies when one confronted him in Hazen, about 70 miles from Bismarck, authorities said. Morton County District Judge Bobbi Weiler, left, and Ian Cramer, right, appear over a zoom call during hearing in September This photo shows the main entrance of the Sanford Health Emergency Department's vehicle and ambulance garage sustained damage in connection with Ian Cramer driving away from the hospital Ian Cramer, 43, pleaded guilty in September to all of the charges against him, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, fleeing an officer and drug- and driving-related offenses Cramer hit speeds of over 100 mph and kept going even after a spiked device flattened two tires, according to court documents. More spikes were set up, and Cramer swerved and then crashed head-on into Martin's patrol vehicle and launched him about 100 feet, authorities said. Martin was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Schwarz said Martin was loved by his colleagues and will be remembered for his kindly nature, which showed in his regular check-ins with a young girl who had a troubled father and a fear of officers. A week before the crash, Martin shared his retirement plans with Schwarz, who had known him since the 1990s. Cramer pleaded not guilty in the homicide case in April. He was initially charged with manslaughter, later changed to the homicide offense, which carries a maximum of 20 years in prison. He has been held at the McLean County Jail in Washburn on $500,000 cash bail. All of the offenses to which he pleaded guilty carry a maximum sentence of just over 38 years in prison, according to the prosecutor's sentencing brief filed earlier in December. GOP Sen. Kevin Cramer, pictured on Monday, has said his son 'suffers from serious mental disorders which manifest in severe paranoia and hallucinations' Ian Cramer, right, is seen alongside his father, Kevin, in a family photo from 2016 In March, Ian Cramer pleaded not guilty to separate felony charges of theft, criminal mischief and reckless endangerment in connection with the events at the Bismarck hospital. A jury trial is scheduled for January. Senator Kevin Cramer, a Republican, has said his son 'suffers from serious mental disorders which manifest in severe paranoia and hallucinations.' The senator told reporters his family commends the officers, court and jail, but said he is 'somewhat disappointed that mental health is so casually dismissed both by the court and by the prosecutor.' 'But I don't think there's any question there's not one person, including Ian, who doesn't know that they were his choices that led to this, whatever they may be, under whatever condition, choices that go back many years,' said Kevin Cramer, who handily won reelection to serve a second term in November. Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi acted like a jilted lover after being left out of talks between the UK, France and Germany. The colourful Italian leader took his exclusion so personally that he threatened to challenge Britains EU rebate at every opportunity. Files released to the National Archives show that that he was particularly hurt by the behaviour of Tony Blair because he had backed the UK over the invasion of Iraq. They reveal that Britains ambassador to Rome, Sir Ivor Roberts, said he was taken aback at the strength of feelings when he met Mr Berlusconis foreign affairs adviser, Giovanni Castellaneta. The gist of what he had to say was that Berlusconi was feeling badly let down by the prime minister, he reported. He actually used the image of a jilted lover (very Berlusconi) and added that there was something of the Southern Italian about Berlusconi which made him quite vindictive when he thought his affections had been misplaced or betrayed. The word tradito (betrayed) came up quite often. Mr Berlusoni even managed to enlist US Presidents support. Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi acted like a 'jilted lover' after being excluded from talks between the UK, France and Germany Berlusconi was particularly hurt by the behaviour of Tony Blair because he had backed the UK on invading Iraq The files show that in a conservation between Mr Bush and Mr Blair, the US president had expressed some concern in a jokey way, on Berlusconis behalf, over Italys exclusion from the talks in Berlin. Mr Blairs meeting in Berlin with president Jacques Chirac and chancellor Gerhard Schroeder in 2004 was an attempt to boost relations with the EUs main figures. But the plan infuriated other leaders, and the former PM felt compelled to visit Rome. He sent his special adviser on Europe, Roger Liddle, ahead to calm Italian nerves and pour oil on troubled waters. Mr Liddle said that the Italians had threatened the UK with plans to bring up their rebate from the EU at every meeting following the talks. I was deliberately and somewhat pompously threatened that Foreign Minister Frattini has issued an instruction that the future of the British rebate should be questioned at every available European meeting, he reported back. Mr Blairs meeting in Berlin with president Jacques Chirac (pictured, left) and chancellor Gerhard Schroeder in 2004 was an attempt to boost relations with key EU figures These reactions are frankly petty, but there is a substantial problem you have to find a way round. Next week, it is no good offering Berlusconi a photo-op without substance. Equally, you cant allow him to veto trilateralism. But after Mr Blair had apparently soothed Italian nerves, an Italian newspaper reported that Mr Schroeder had announced a second trilateral meeting in London. In an emotional phone call, Mr Berlusconi complained to Mr Blair that the papers front page coverage and accompanying cartoon had destroyed all that his foreign policy had tried to achieve, showing Italy had no weight in Europe. Mr Blair had to assure him that no such meeting had been agreed. A young Melbourne woman has expressed her frustration at being constantly refused entry into venues because of her driver's licence photo. In a video posted on TikTok earlier this month, 21-year-old Jessica revealed she had no option but to get a replacement licence to solve the problem. She said the photo on her licence, which is three years old, now looks so unlike her current appearance that 'no venue in Melbourne' accepts it. 'Every time I go out now - and you need like ID every single place every venue, every person thinks it's fake, they say the photo's not me, it's not a real ID.' She said venues always ask for another form of ID, but her licence is her main form of photo ID. Jessica said even when she tried to use her Victorian licence in Sydney she was accused of having a fake ID. 'It's so frustrating. I'm not like a fresh 18-year-old, why would I be carrying a fake ID?' she said. Jessica said to prove her identity, she has to go through the rigmarole of showing her Medicare card, MyGov, a bank card, a Crown card and logging into the VicRoads app. In a video posted on TikTok earlier this month, Jessica (pictured) revealed she had to resort to getting a new driver's licence to solve the problem of being refused entry into venues 'I literally always am arguing with them,' she said. 'There was one place in particular in Melbourne which is such a popular venue, that wouldn't accept my ID like at all, and I asked to speak to the manager and was arguing with the security. 'I showed them everything I had.' 'I showed them my bank card and my phone and the name matches up and they still don't accept it.' Jessica filmed the video in her car in a VicRoads car park where she was applying for a new licence with a new photo. She shared an image of the current photo on her licence, in which she does look very different. 'So hopefully by getting a new photo, it works and I can breathe, because I hate it,' Jessica said. Jessica told one follower the process of updating the photo on her Victorian driver's licence was simple and free 'I always get so much anxiety.' Jessica's followers on TikTok sympathised with her predicament. 'I feel like vic roads needs to make it mandatory to update license photos. My partner is 25 and he's still got the same pic from when he was 16 and he looks NOTHING like it,' one wrote. Another wrote: 'My photo on my License is 20 years old. And my signature looks nothing like how it is now. It blew my mind when VicRoads said I didn't need a new photo when I got it renewed recently. This is the most accepted form of photo ID yet looks nothing like me.' A third wrote: 'I get this all the time too because i had red hair in my old photo and the issue is I'm 22 but look like I'm still 16 lmao.' Jessica told one follower the process of updating the photo on a Victorian Driver's Licence was simple and free. 'My license is free because i have clean record and if you want a new photo they just swap the cards over!!!' One follower criticised Jessica for posting about the issue: 'First world f***ing problems.' Jessica replied, 'How? I could be anywhere in the world and experience this.' Downing Street has released visitor books spanning 1970 when Edward Heath was in power to 2003, when Tony Blair was prime minister. The three decades of volumes contain the names of distinguished guests who walked through the famous black door. The books reveal a rare insight into those who visited the famous address including royals, politicians, heroes and dictators. The late Queen signed herself Elizabeth R, while the present King and his then wife were simply Charles and Diana. Successive US presidents from Jimmy Carter to Ronald Reagan, George Bush senior and Bill Clinton to George Bush junior also visited. At the end of his visit in 1989, the elder Mr Bush wrote: 'With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this relationship that means so much' to which his wife, Barbara, added: 'Me too.' In 1996 South Africa's president Nelson Mandela noted 'Visiting Downing St, No 10, is always an unforgettable experience' while Czech president Vaclav Havel added a heart sign under his name. One page in 1985 is signed by all five surviving former prime ministers, Harold Macmillan, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath and James Callaghan, as well as then PM Margaret Thatcher. Downing Street has released visitor books spanning from 1970, when Edward Heath (pictured) was prime minister The three decades of volumes contain the names of distinguished guests who visited the famous address The visitor records list guests up to 2003, when Tony Blair lived at Downing Street Successive US Presidents including Jimmy Carter (pictured), Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton also visited the UK prime minister's residence Former Czech president Vaclav Havel added a heart sign under his name in the guest book Former president of Zimbabwe and dictator Robert Mugabe was among guests to No 10 The late Queen Elizabeth II was among guests listed in the record book, with the monarch signing her name as 'Elizabeth R' Ugandan former president-for-life Idi Amin was among controversial figures to have signed the guest book Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwe's president Robert Mugabe are among the controversial figures to have signed. The existence of the books came to light earlier this year when one was offered for sale at auction. According to the auctioneers, Chiswick Auctions, the seller was a retired civil servant who found it after he was given permission to remove water-damaged boxes marked for incineration following a flood in Whitehall. It had been expected to raise around 15,000 but the sale was suspended after the Cabinet Office claimed it was government property under the Public Records Act 1958. The Cabinet Office declined a request for comment on the decision now to release all three books to the National Archives. Ford Motor Company has blamed a 'compromised account' for a series of anti-Israel posts on Monday. The storied car manufacturer had published and quickly deleted three inflammatory posts to its X account, which has more than 1.4million followers. They read, 'All eyes on Gaza,' 'Free Palestine' and 'Israel is a terrorist state,' causing a furore on social media as X users demanded answers. But the Dearborn, Michigan company has since suggested that its account was hacked. 'Our X account was briefly compromised and the previous three posts were not authorized or posted by Ford,' it claimed. 'They do not represent Ford Motor Company. 'Ford and X are investigating this breach.' Many on social media had earlier suggested the person running the company's social media would get fired for sharing their own thoughts on the ongoing war in the Middle East, while others accused it of being antisemitic. 'Ford hates Jewish people,' one user claimed. Ford Motor Company has blamed a 'compromised account' for a series of anti-Israel posts on Monday. The storied car manufacturer had published and quickly deleted three inflammatory posts to its X account, which has more than 1.4million followers 'What the hell is wrong with you @Ford?' activist Eyal Yakoby added, as Eitan Fischberger, a freelance writer, accused the person of running Ford's social media of being a 'POS who forgot to switch out the account.' Podcaster Lou Perez took a more humorous approach, noting that its founder had his own antisemitic views. 'Who's running Ford's social media? Henry Ford?' Perez wrote. Ford's founder Henry Ford continued to do business with Nazi Germany throughout World War II, spoke openly against Jewish people and was even praised by Hitler himself. Brianna Wu, the executive director of the Rebellion PAC, also took aim at the company's more than 120-year history. 'Ford in 1966: "We're gonna get young people's attention by beating Ferrari at Le Mans"' she wrote. 'Ford in 2024: "We also wanna kill the Jews." Others took a more moderate approach, noting that it is unconventional for a company to post about such a controversial topic. 'Ever want to be a social media intern at Ford?' blogger Courtney O'Dell wrote. 'I think they might be hiring.' Some online accused the historic company of being antisemitic Yet others also seemed to support Ford's post, including self-described journalist Sulaiman Ahmed, who argued that the company should 'GIVE THIS FORD EMPLOYEE A MEDAL.' The apparent hack comes amid the ongoing war in the Middle East, which began when Hamas terrorists kidnapped and killed Israelis at a music festival on October 7, 2023. It has since spread across the entire region, with Houthi fighters recently firing a missile at Israel's main airport in retaliation for the country's forces targeting a runway in Yemen. The rebel group responded to last Thursday's strikes in Sanaa by hitting Ben Gurion Airport which is only ten miles away from Tel Aviv. Israeli missiles struck the airport in Yemen's capital as the director-general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, boarded a flight. According to the United Nations, three people were killed and dozens injured. Israel said its strikes targeted the infrastructure of Yemen's Houthi rebels in retaliation for repeated volleys of missiles fired by the rebels toward central Israel in recent days. Officials in Israel said the Houthi missile at Ben Gurion was intercepted, yet 18 people suffered minor injuries as they rushed to a bomb shelter and flights were delayed for half an hour. A newlywed Australian tourist honeymooning in Bali has drowned after being swept out to sea by a freak wave. Jacob Vennix, 32, and his new wife, Kimberly Fuller, 38, were relaxing on Pasut Beach, about 30km west of Denpasar, when tragedy struck at 3.50pm on Monday. Mr Vennix became caught in a rip and was swept out to sea when his wife immediately called for help. A local fisherman rushed help Mr Vennix in his boat, but struggled to reach him due to the shifting currents. Tabanan Police spokesperson I Gusti Made Berata said when the fisherman was finally able to drag the Aussie on board, a large wave flipped the boat. 'The victim was later swept by the wave onto the beach,' he said. 'Some locals and the victim's wife who were waiting on the beach immediately tried to save the victim. 'The victim's condition was unconscious.' Newlyweds Jacob Vennix (left) and Kimberly Fuller (right) were holidaying in Bali for their honeymoon Ms Fuller carried a cushion from a beach chair into the water as a floatation device to help Mr Vennix to shore Heartbreaking footage showed Mr Vennix's wife carrying the large cushion of a beach chair into the water to help bring Mr Vennix to shore. The victim's wife performed CPR with the assistance of locals and he was eventually taken to Tabanan Public Hospital, where he was declared dead. It is understood he and Ms Fuller had wed on December 21, nine days before the freak incident. Photographs showed the couple tying the knot at the Hard Days Night function centre in Adelaide. The couple smiled from ear to ear as they exchanged their vows in front of a celebrant. Mr Vennix was dragged out to sea at Pasut Beach on Monday afternoon. He only married on December 21 Mr Vennix was rushed to Tabanan Public Hospital, where he was declared dead. Above, police at the hospital One photograph showed the couple happily posing with a marriage certificate on one of the lounges at the venue. 'Beautiful day marrying a beautiful man x,' Ms Fuller captioned a photo on Facebook. Mr Vennix described Ms Fuller as 'my stunning wife' and said he couldn't 'be prouder' in a heartbreaking post a day before. The couple met at a Coles supermarket in 2022 when Ms Fuller's son was playing on a Guide Dogs collection box. Their one-year-old son son is vision impaired and to raise money for research into his condition, Mr Mannix did the recent City-to-Bay fun run blindfolded, guided by Ms Fuller. Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for comment. Ukrainian troops face being ejected from the Russian province they invaded earlier this year - in a major blow for their country. The Western-backed forces are on the brink in Kursk after months of fighting, US officials revealed. They fear the Ukrainians could be encircled should they remain there for more than a few months. US officials issued their dire warning as President Joe Biden issued the last multi-billion dollar aide package of his administration. The outgoing Commander-in-Chief signed off nearly $6 billion in military equipment and direct budget support. But the last tranche of funding could come too late to help Ukraine hold on to territory inside Russia. Its troops seized up to 1,000 square kilometres in the Kursk region in August - in a move which stunned the Kremlin. But since then Russia has recaptured at least half the territory and is sending thousands more troops to the region. A Ukrainian soldier in the Ukraine-controlled town of Sudzha in the Kursk region of Russia. The troops face being ejected from the Russian province they invaded earlier this year - in a major blow for their country Ukrainians close to the Sumy region of Russia. The Western-backed forces are on the brink in Kursk after months of fighting, US officials revealed. They fear the Ukrainians could be encircled should they remain there for more than a few months A Ukrainian military vehicle driving past a destroyed border crossing point with Russia in the Kursk region. Russia has recaptured at least half the territory and is sending thousands more troops to the region According to reports, US officials hope Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will retreat sooner rather than later, to prevent loss of life. He previously stated his intention was to hold territory inside Russia indefinitely. More recently, his aides have softened their tone, suggesting their troops will stay only as long as it is feasible. The Ukrainian force, which includes British volunteers, is outnumbered and out-gunned by 60,000 Russian troops and 12,000 North Koreans. However, at least 3,000 North Korean troops are thought to have perished in recent weeks. A Ukrainian retreat could alter the balance of peace talks expected after Donald Trump takes office on January 20th. Ukraine has been hoping to use territory in Kursk as leverage to recover Russian-occupied territory inside its borders. It also emerged yesterday that, ahead of his inauguration, Donald Trumps advisors have been sounding out the Kremlin over peace terms. President Zelensky (pictured) said recently: For [Vladimir] Putin the most important thing is to push us out of the Kursk region. It is very important for him to demonstrate after President Trump takes office that he is in control of the situation. A residential building on fire in Kharkiv in August 2024. Russia has lost 787,940 troops, killed or wounded since its invasion of Ukraine almost three years ago Russian officials apparently rejected an offer to suspend Ukraines admission into NATO for 20 years in return for a ceasefire. Russia could be holding out for better terms once its troops have ejected the Ukrainians. As President Zelensky said recently: For [Vladimir] Putin the most important thing is to push us out of the Kursk region. It is very important for him to demonstrate after President Trump takes office that he is in control of the situation. Russian forces have also made huge gains on Ukraines eastern front, seizing six times as much territory there in 2024 as they did in 2023. Yesterday, Ukraine and Russia exchanged prisoners of war in a deal brokered by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Around 150 troops from each side were transferred. Some Ukrainian soldiers had spent two years in captivity. Russia has lost 787,940 troops, killed or wounded since its invasion of Ukraine almost three years ago. According to figures released by Ukraine Russia has also lost 9,663 tanks, 20,003 armoured fighting vehicles and 21,069 drones. Despite these losses Russia has been able to replenish its forces whereas Ukraine has struggled to mobilise sufficient numbers of troops. The rap sheet of Bali Nine drug smuggler Scott Rush has exposed the sad reality of just how much time has passed since the then-teenager stole a Nintendo Gameboy in 2005. Rush returned to Australia on December 15 after he was released from an Indonesian prison after a deal was struck between the two countries. He surrendered himself to Queensland Police on Monday a fortnight after his return to face historic charges he committed when he was 19-years-old. Supported by his parents Lee and Christine, Rush faced Brisbane magistrates Court and pleaded guilty to a slew of offences including fraud, receiving tainted property and entering premises. He pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a motor vehicle and seven counts of entering a dwelling, with all properties in the Brisbane area, in March 2005. Upon entering the properties, Rush stole cash and a number of items including jewellery, a hearing aid, a Nintendo gameBoy and Nokia mobile phones - items symbolic of the early 2000s in Australia. He also pleaded guilty to receiving stolen property and failing to appear in court a month later in April, 2005 and for twice defrauding Cash Converter in late 2004. Rush committed most of the offences while he was subject to a number of suspended sentences between one to two months in jail which were issued in January 2005. Scott Rush (pictured centre with the remaining members of the Bali Nine) has been sentenced in a Queensland court for offences he committed when he was just 19-years-old He was a drug addict at the time, which months later led to him being arrested in Bali and spending almost two decades in jail, the court heard. Magistrate Patricia Kirkman-Scroope initially wondered why a man facing 20-year-old charges was appearing in a court that deals with overnight arrests. 'I thought the name was familiar but I didn't make the connection,' Magistrate Kirkman-Scroope said. The court heard that Rush wished to put his past behind him and make a worthwhile contribution to society. His solicitor Terry Fisher added his client received intensive counselling and completed self-improvement courses during his 19-year prison stint in Indonesia. The consultant at Fisher Dore Lawyers, told the court Rush was committed to becoming a 'worthwhile contributor' to the community. 'Clearly, over a period of 20 years, you have plenty of time to do that,' Mr Fisher said. 'He has insight and remorse into his previous conduct, and what he's committed to now is to being reintegrated into Australian society.' Scott Rush is pictured in a holding cell at Bali Police Headquarters in October, 2005 'He was 19 years of age when he went to Bali, he was apprehended at the Bali Airport with 1.3 kilograms as a drug courier. 'He was not the main perpetrator. He was then, effectively, had served 20 years in jail. He did face the death penalty from 2006 to 2011 that was subsequently reduced to life imprisonment. 'Two of the members of the Bali nine were shot by a firing squad, the two main ringleaders.' Mr Fisher also spoke about how Lee Rush's attempt to help his drug-addicted son unintentionally led to him being jailed in Indonesia and facing the death penalty. Mr Rush told the Australian Federal Police that he was suspicious of what his son was doing, and the police promised him to tell the then teenager he was under surveillance, to stop him getting involved. 'What happened was they didn't do that. And before he left for Indonesia, the AFP tipped off Indonesian authorities to the Australians being there, knowing full well it was a death-penalty sentence,' Mr Fisher explained. Mr Fisher asked the court if Rush could be convicted but not sentenced, noting the two decades he had spent in jail already. The police prosecutor Matthew Bach agreed with the submission and Magistrate Kirkman-Scroope convicted Rush for 13 offences, but did not further punish him. Scott Rush (centre) is pictured with his parents Christine and Lee in Indonesia in 2006 The operation period of his suspended sentences were extended by two months. Rush didn't speak but gave a thumbs-up when asked how it felt to be a free man outside court. He was among five remaining Bali Nine prisoners transferred to Australia earlier this month after the federal government struck a deal with Indonesia. As well as Rush, Matthew Norman, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen and Michael Czugaj flew back to Australia on a commercial flight in a top secret mission following weeks of negotiations between the two nations. The development came after Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese requested the transfer at a meeting with new Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto at the APEC Summit in November. Mr Subianto agreed to let the prisoners free on humanitarian grounds. Tan Duc Thanh Nguyen, another of the Bali Nine drug mules who had collectively attempted to smuggle 8.7kg of heroin, died from stomach cancer behind bars in 2018. Chan and Sukumaran were executed in 2015, while Renae Lawrence was released after serving 13 years. The largest escape of farmed Salmon in a decade may have harmed Scotland's pristine waters and wild fish populations, campaigners have warned. The escape of 80,000 of the fish happened in February 2023 but has not been made public until now - prompting demands for transparency in the industry. The shoal of cultivated fish broke loose through an unsecured hatch while being transported by ship from Loch Shin, in the Northwest Highlands, to Lochinver on Scotland's west coast. The Green Britain Foundation, an environmental charity founded by millionaire Labour donor Dale Vince, discovered the mass escape through a Freedom of Information request to the Scottish Government. Mr Vince described it as 'a wake-up call' for the salmon farming industry. 'For them it's about lost profit but for the rest of us it's about the very real threat to our delicate marine ecosystems,' he said. The largest escape of farmed Salmon in a decade may have harmed Scotland's pristine waters and wild fish populations, campaigners have warned (stock image) The escape of 80,000 of the fish happened in February 2023 but has not been made public until now 'The fact that such a significant incident could go unreported for so long exposes dangerous blind spots in our environmental monitoring systems. 'This incident underscores the urgent need for a complete reassessment of how we monitor and regulate the salmon farming industry. The health of our oceans and the integrity of our endangered wild salmon populations are at stake.' Farmed salmon are bred to grow big quickly, which makes them less suited to wild environments where fitness is key to survival. If they breed with their wild counterparts, the offspring are often weak and prone to disease. During a recent House of Lords debate, Lord Forsyth of Drumlean said: 'Escapees bring diseases to the wild population and whole rivers have been cleaned out of wild fish.' Labour donor Dale Vince (pictured) described it as 'a wake-up call' for the salmon farming industry Wild Atlantic salmon, Scotland's 'King of Fish', were last year classified as an endangered species, with the International Union for Conservation of Nature warning they are at risk of extinction. The Scottish Government said the escape was not reported because it did not happen at a farm, but it is reviewing the way such incidents are recorded. A spokesman said: 'It is not currently a legal requirement for farmed fish transporters to report farmed fish escapes. However in this instance, the operator has followed best practice and made a notification. 'Reported escapes from wellboats are a rare occurrence. The transporter involved in the escape incident has taken remedial action to avoid similar events in future. We will consider this incident and our reporting requirements further.' Scottish salmon is the UK's biggest food export. More than 64,000 tons of the fish were exported last year, worth more than 580 million. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department asks hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas to monitor for animals affected by New World Screwworm after a recent detection in Mexico, according to the news release. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer South Texas hunters and outdoor enthusiasts will need to monitor animals potentially affected by an infectious disease caused by maggots after positive detection was found in a cow across the southern border. The Chief Veterinary Officer of Mexico notified the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in November of the positive detection in Mexico. The New World Screwworm infection was found in a cow during an inspection checkpoint in the state of Chiapas, which borders Guatemala, according to the news release. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced the New World Screwworm's movement through South and Central Americas, according to the release. Animal health officials are encouraging the Texans near the southern border to monitor wildlife, livestock and pets for signs of the disease and report potential cases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad INSECT MIGRATION: Texas agriculture commissioner criticizes monarch butterfly proposal "Those enjoying Texas' natural resources have an opportunity to serve as the first line of defense in protecting wildlife, livestock and human health," said Dr. J Hunter Reed, wildlife veterinarian at TPWD, in a statement. Here's what to know about the Screwworm and how Texans can monitor their animals if some of the livestock become infected: What is New World Screwworm disease? New World Screwworms are fly larvae or maggots that can infest human flesh and cause infection, according to the release. The female flies could lay their eggs into opened wounds or an opening in the body, such as the nostrils, eyes or mouth, due to being attracted to the scent of warm-blooded animals. The larvae will then burrow or twist the flesh with its sharp mouth hook. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The female fly can lay up to 300 eggs at a time and 3,000 during an entire lifespan, according to the release. The larvae will also eventually drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and grow into an adult New World Screwworm fly. The pests were eradicated from the United States in 1966, but are still considered widespread in Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and South American countries, according to the release. Can the New World Screwworm disease cause death? The wounds from the infected animals with the New World Screwworm disease can become larger and cause serious, deadly damage or death, according to the release. The pests infect mainly livestock, but can also affect humans and other wildlife, including deer and birds. The New World Screwworm flies can travel long distances and infected livestock moving from one place to another can spread the infestation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Here are the signs of New World Screwworm disease The signs of New World Screwworms include irritated or depressed behavior, losing an appetite, head shaking, decaying flesh smell, larvae or maggots present in the animals' wounds and isolation from other animals or people. WHAT TO KNOW: Bird flu confirmed in Galveston County Here's how to prevent animals from being infected by the New World Screwworm disease TPWD officials said livestock owners will need to clean and cover the wounds of the animals and apply insect repellant to outdoor clothing to help avoid contact with New World Screwworm disease, according to the release. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If hunters, hikers, bird watchers and outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas are outside, they're encouraged to report signs of the New World Screwworm disease. Those in the Texas counties near the southern border can contact a local wildlife biologist online by typing in their prospecting county and searching for the biologist who can assist, according to the release. Elderly retirees could be the key to alleged assassin Luigi Mangione's freedom, a prison expert revealed. The Ivy League graduate pleaded not guilty to 11 criminal counts - including a terrorism charge - relating to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City earlier this month. With a highly-anticipated trial on the horizon, Wall Street Prison Consultants founder Larry Levine shared how he believes the situation will unfold for the 26-year-old. Levine, who served 10 years in prison, told The Sun: 'He'll never be found guilty. Who primarily uses healthcare? Older people. 'Who gets turned down for procedures and healthcare primary care? Older people. Who primarily sits on a jury? Older people. 'This is no longer about Luigi and what he did. It's about the healthcare system.' Retirees are less likely to have valid excuses, such as employment or childcare responsibilities, which would exclude them from serving on a jury. Mangione supporters have been rallying behind him at his court appearances, with many bearing signs that advocate for his freedom. Luigi Mangione, 26, has received heaps of support for his alleged actions. He pleaded not guilty to 11 criminal counts Protestors beared signs outside of Manhattan Criminal Court urging for Mangione's freedom Wall Street Prison Consultants founder Larry Levine has revealed why he thinks Mangione will be found not guilty His death has become a lightning rod for people who say they are fed up with the American healthcare industry - regardless of their age. Nicholas Zamudio, 33, was one of the demonstrators in front of the Lower Manhattan courthouse where Mangione had his arraignment on December 23. Holding a sign reading 'United States Healthcare Stole My Livelihood. Prosecute Malicious Profiteers,' he explained to ABC that he suffered from a similar back injury to Mangione's. He told the outlet: 'I guess a lot kind of resonated with me in regards to the pain and not getting help with the healthcare system. 'I think murder is obviously wrong, but it did bring us to a point we needed to get to.' Levine predicted that prosecutors will waste years trying to convict Mangione, but in the end he will be found 'not guilty by reasons of insanity.' 'Would a normal person have done that? No. So, he really is cuckoo. So, what they'll do is they'll find him not guilty by reasons of insanity, and then they'll do something called a civil commitment,' he told the publication. Civil commitment means that a judge is able to order an individual to be involuntarily admitted to to a psychiatric institution. He stands accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4 Some Mangione fans are more infatuated by his looks than his motivations behind allegedly shooting the CEO He continued: 'Now the case has taken on a whole new life because it's not gonna be about the murder. 'That's why this whole thing is gonna be convoluted. He won't be found guilty, they'll retry him, he won't be found guilty, and they'll just do a civil commitment. I guarantee it.' Aside from those who feel passionately about the healthcare industry, others have shown their support for Mangione solely based on his appearance - gushing over him on social media. 'Need him bad,' one user posted on X alongside photos of a smiling Mangione. Another user who has posted a series of pro-Mangione messages and photos on the platform said: 'good luck finding 12 jury members that don't want to f*ck him.' Added another commenter: 'Luigi Mangione got the full package, free him.' Mangione's next state court appearance is set for February 21, but he is planned to appear in federal court on January 18. He has yet to enter a plea for his four federal charges, which were brought upon him on December 19. People have interpreted Brian Thompson's death symbolically - claiming it demonstrated peoples' frustration with the healthcare industry Mangione is in jail at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC). This facility also houses Sean 'Diddy' Combs 'Luigi Mangione allegedly conducted the carefully premeditated and targeted execution of Brian Thompson to incite national debates,' FBI New York Field Office Assistant Director James Dennehy said in a statement announcing the charges. The federal charges are using a firearm to commit murder, interstate stalking resulting in death, stalking through use of interstate facilities resulting in death and discharging a firearm that was equipped with a silencer in furtherance of a crime of violence. Mangione is being held at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center alongside disgraced rapper Sean 'Diddy' Combs. He was arrested on December 9 in an Altoona, Pennsylvania McDonald's after a five-day manhunt for the suspect. Former Daily Mail executive Brian Freemantle who went on to become a best-selling author has died aged 88. During a distinguished career on the newspaper as foreign editor, he masterminded the Mails dramatic airlift to rescue Vietnamese children from Saigon just days before the ravaged city fell to the Viet Cong in 1975. In an operation as daring as the compulsive thrillers he went on to write, Mr Freemantle had makeshift cots strung from the ceiling of the specially chartered Boeing 707, staffed by nurses and medics, which brought 99 orphaned and sick children to start a new life in Britain. One of the infants rescued, known then simply as baby No 10, later named her son Harry after Mr Freemantles middle name. Earlier, the newsman had played a key role in the Mails transformation from a broadsheet to a compact newspaper under editor Sir David English in 1971. Former Daily Mail executive Brian Freemantle (pictured) who went on to become a best-selling author has died aged 88 Operation Mercy Airlift which was chartered by Mr Freemantle. He had makeshift cots strung from the ceiling of the specially chartered Boeing 707, staffed by nurses and medics, which brought 99 orphaned and sick children to start a new life in Britain Soon after Operation Mercy Airlift, however, Mr Freemantle left Fleet Street to become a full-time writer. He was prolific, and by the time of his death he had written some 85 books, among them the hugely popular Charlie Muffin spy stories, one of which was made into a film starring David Hemmings as the eponymous hero. He also wrote histories of the CIA and KGB, the latter of which saw him banned from Russia. A freeman of the City of London, he leaves a wife Maureen, three daughters, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He could be a doting father gazing at his daughter as she blows out her birthday candles. In fact, this is Michael Lewis, husband of Lady Kitty Spencer who turned 34 at the weekend. He will be 66 next month. The couple were snapped at a party in South Africa, where she grew up with her parents Earl Spencer, 60, and Victoria, 59. Lady Kitty, a model and niece of Princess Diana, married fashion tycoon Lewis, who has an estimated 80million fortune, in 2021. In her fathers absence, her half-brother Samuel Aitken walked her down the aisle. The blonde model celebrated her birthday in style on Sunday evening sharing snaps from a lavish dinner in Cape Town with her nearest and dearest. Lady Kitty wore a striking cut-out dress emblazoned with a bold floral print as she blew out the candles on an impressive double tiered cake. In one video Kitty shared on Instagram businessman Lewis - who rarely appears on social media - donned a black shirt as he stood beside his wife. Lady Kitty Spencer was snapped beside husband Michael Lewis as she celebrated her 34th birthday in Cape Town. Here she is seen blowing out the candles of her double-tiered cake In one video Kitty shared on Instagram businessman Lewis - who rarely appears on social media - donned a black shirt as he stood beside his wife Lady Kitty (pictured), a model and niece of Princess Diana , married fashion tycoon Lewis, who has an estimated 80million fortune, in 2021 Kitty met her millionaire husband in 2018 through mutual friends supporting charities championed by MP Liam Fox. The pair tied the knot at a glamorous ceremony hosted by Villa Aldobrandini in Frascati, Italy in July 2021. The couple have a toddler daughter, Athena, who can be seen in adorable holiday pictures from her first 'magical' Christmas in Monaco. Kitty recently shared a collection of sweet images showing her and daughter enjoying festive season in the glitzy European enclave. In many of the snaps, which the minor royal posted on Christmas Eve, Lady Kitty is seen lovingly cradling her baby daughter as they visited lavishly decorated Christmas trees and took rides on a carousel at a grand amusement park. One image captured a beautifully-lit sky and a gargantuan Christmas tree adorned with numerous multicoloured lights, baubles and a big gold star. For the occasion, the stylish spokesmodel for Bulgari and Dolce & Gabbana wore a chic tan winter coat which she paired with black trousers. Her lustrous blonde locks were styled with a centre-part and lay effortlessly on her shoulders. Her mini-me looked adorable in a cute maroon red winter jacket, which visibly emulated her mother's own style. Lady Kitty revealed a collection of sweet images showing her and daughter Athena enjoying festive season in Monaco. Pictured Lady Kitty and Athena riding a carousel at a grand amusement park Picture: Lady Kitty lovingly cradling her baby daughter as they visited lavishly decorated Christmas trees In many of the snaps, the various festive trees appeared to catch little Athena's attention, particularly one accessorised with teddy bears, trains and other child-friendly ornaments In another endearing image, the mother and daughter duo put on a sweet display as they held hands while taking a ride on a carousel. In many of the snaps, the various festive trees appeared to catch little Athena's attention, particularly one accessorised with teddy bears, trains and other child-friendly ornaments. While in her mother's arms, the baby girl could be seen pointing to a brown teddy bear on the tree, and, in another picture, while sporting a cute winter hat, she grabbed hold of a stuffed animal. Kitty has graced magazine covers and landed ambassador roles with luxury brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Bulgari. Aside from her modelling career, she has been a committed advocate for the homeless charity Centrepoint, supporting her cousin Prince William at various events, including their recent awards ceremony. Kitty's family includes younger twin sisters, Lady Eliza and Lady Amelia, her brother Louis, as well as half-siblings from her parents' other marriages. A Connecticut man accused of killing a young mother and her four-month-old baby is said to have given her a chilling warning before he opened fire. Lance 'Macho' Morales, 23, is facing murder, assault and gun charges relating to the November 19 drive-by shooting of Jessiah Mercado, 20, and her son, Messiah Diaz. Police claim he drove up next to the Mazda SUV Mercado and Diaz were in and opened fire with a fully automatic weapon in broad daylight in Hartford, after he allegedly had a brief exchange with Mercado, in which she told him her baby was in the vehicle. 'I don't care,' he replied, a witness inside the SUV told police, according to a newly-released affidavit obtained by The Register Citizen. It claims Morales specifically targeted Mercado because she was renting the Mazda SUV from him for $100 a day, and fell behind on the payments. By the day of the shooting, Mercado allegedly owed Morales $400. Authorities also said they received a tip that Morales and Mercado 'previously had some sort of relationship' and that he had been trying to contact her, but she was ignoring him. Mercado and Diaz were both pronounced dead at Hartford Hospital, while a male passenger survived his injuries. A fourth person in the car was uninjured in the shooting. Lance 'Macho' Morales, 23, is facing murder, assault and gun charges in the November 19 drive-by shooting of Jessiah Mercado, and her son, Messiah Diaz Police claim Morales pulled up next to the Mazda SUV Mercado and her infant son (pictured) were in and opened fire with a fully automatic weapon Meanwhile, police said Morales fled the scene of the shooting and abandoned his vehicle in his hometown of Waterbury, where it was later located. He was found days later in Puerto Rico, and was taken into custody by US Marshals at a home in the eastern town of Fajardo. Morales was finally extradited back to Connecticut on Saturday, and appeared in state court in Hartford on Monday, when Judge Michael Wu set his bail at $5million. The judge also required that 40 percent of the bail, amounting to $2million, be posted in cash under a state law that allows such requirements in serious gun cases after State's Attorney Sharmese Walcott argued he is 'considered to be a threat to the safety of the public.' Morales' attorney did not respond to the claims against his client, saying only that Morales could not afford to pay the bail and noting that he is a lifelong Connecticut resident. The 23-year-old was previously convicted of an unrelated attempted assault, and was released from jail earlier in the year. He also has several other pending criminal cases in the state. Mercado, meanwhile, previously resided in Hartford and was enrolled in an antiviolence program that provides services to young women, CT Insider reported. Morales was located days later in Puerto Rico, and was taken into custody. He has since been extradited back to Connecticut to face charges Mercado previously resided in Hartford and was enrolled in an antiviolence program that provides services to young women, as her son was in foster care She moved to Springfield, Massachusetts in 2023 to escape a culture of violence, the program's director, Sunindiya Bhalla told the outlet. A spokesperson for the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families later revealed that Diaz was a foster child. It remains unclear what the infant was doing with his biological mother on the day of the shooting. In the meantime, Morales is due back in court on January 8. If convicted, he could face life in prison without the possibility of parole. An Arizona family was left devastated after a loving husband and doting dad of tw was found murdered after he set out to assist a stranger he believed to be in need of help. Paul Clifford, 53, left his Benson, Arizona home late on the night of December 23 when a man appeared at the Clifford family home claiming his car had broken down. True to his generous nature, Clifford took one of his daughter's truck and left at around 11:30pm to help the man. But as the hours passed by with no word from him, his family grew increasingly concerned. 'My dad went missing last night at 11:30, he took my truck to go jump start someone's vehicle. We tracked the truck and the police have found it in Tucson, truck went over Redington pass to get to the east side,' daughter Sabrina Vining wrote on Facebook. But their worst fears were confirmed on Christmas Eve when authorities tracked Clifford's truck to a desolate stretch of road northeast of Tucson, some 14 miles away from the family home. There, they discovered a horrifying scene: Clifford's lifeless body lying near his burned-out vehicle, which was still smoldering. The remote location was so difficult to access that deputies described it as being 'nearly impossible' to reach without specialized vehicles. 'It's very far, it's very remote and to get out there it takes a specific vehicle. I think you can get there in a two wheel vehicle but it's going to be very slow going,' said Deputy Adam Schoonover of the Pima County Sheriff's Department. Paul Clifford, 53, set out from his Benson home on the evening of December 23 when a man appeared at the Clifford's home claiming his car had broken down. He was found the next day Authorities tracked Clifford's truck to a desolate stretch of road northeast of Tucson, some 14 miles away from the family home Paul Clifford, 53, was said to be a loyal family man. He is pictured with his wife and two daughters, Sabrina and Samantha 'It's an isolated, rugged area. The circumstances of how he ended up there are deeply suspicious.' Police seemed to be aware something was amiss in the early hours of December 24 after deputies responded to a report of 'suspicious activity' at around 1:20am. But by the time they arrived, the scene was eerily empty - leaving more questions than answers. One of Clifford's two daughters, Sabrina, described her dad as a 'gentle giant' with a heart of compassion. 'We are devastated. He was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone, and this is how he was repaid,' she wrote on a GoFundMe page to support her grieving family. 'I'm at a loss for my mom and am doing everything I can to support her through this unimaginable pain. 'I'm trying my best to help my mom with anything I can. Any help is appreciated and not expected, people have reached out and I want to make sure my mom is taken care of because that's what my dad would have wanted,' Sabrina wrote. 'It's very far, it's very remote and to get out there it takes a specific vehicle. I think you can get there in a two wheel vehicle but it's going to be very slow going,' said Deputy Adam Schoonover of the Pima County Sheriff's Department Paul Clifford is pictured in a photo from his younger years True to his generous nature, Clifford took one of his daughter's truck and left around 11:30pm - but as the hours passed by with no word from him, his family grew increasingly concerned Paul Clifford is pictured alongside his wife Christina Clifford Paul is seen alongside his wife, Christine, daughters Sabrina and Samanatha together with his young grandson The identity of the mysterious man who lured Clifford from his home remains unknown, and authorities have not disclosed whether they believe the man played a role in Clifford's death. The investigation remains active but no arrests have been made. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward, as any small details could be crucial in solving the case. The Sheriff's Department can be reached on 520-882-7463. Former Buckingham Palace press officer Dickie Arbiter raises the thorny subject of the Princess of Wales appearing topless within sight of paparazzi during her Provence holiday in 2012. In a Channel 5 documentary, Arbiter blames security failures for the long-lens snaps taken from a public road at the future Lord Snowdons property. Pictures were published worldwide, though not in Britain. William successfully sued, winning substantial damages. In the two-parter called Kate, Arbiter states: You dont expect to be photographed on a private estate, but if you can be seen from a public vantage point then its a bit self-inflicted! Former Buckingham Palace press officer Dickie Arbiter (pictured) raises the thorny subject of the Princess of Wales appearing topless within sight of paparazzi during her Provence holiday in 2012 The Prince and Princess of Wales in December. Pictures of Kate were published worldwide, though not in Britain. William successfully sued, winning substantial damages Kate Middleton at the Christmas Day church service, St. Mary Magdalene Church, Sandringham, Norfolk Princess Beatrices pregnancy prevented her flying abroad for Christmas, leaving her with an awkward choice between home alone dad Andrew or Uncle Charles. She opted for the King. Is all well with the Yorks? Once one of the tightest of family units, Beatrice has apparently declined to show Dad public support since the fatal Newsnight interview. Does it still rankle that Andrew used her attending an afternoon birthday party at Pizza Express as the reason why he couldnt have had a close encounter with Virginia Giuffre? Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. Her pregnancy prevented her flying abroad for Christmas, leaving her with an awkward choice between home alone dad Andrew or Uncle Charles Exasperated by daft on-screen warnings after forking out to watch Gladiator 2, Andrew Neil complains: Its pretty p**s poor.' But intriguingly, every time somebody pours a glass of wine the words alcohol consumption is injurious comes up on the bottom right of the screen. Is this what its come to?... A film about violence, murder and death warns about a glass of wine?...Why is there no warning that getting your head severed is even more injurious to your health than a glass of wine? Paul Mescal (left) and Pedro Pascal (right) in Gladiator II. Andrew Neil complains every time somebody pours a glass of wine in the film the words alcohol consumption is injurious comes up on the bottom right of the screen Oddly hired to narrate the BBCs Sir Roger Moore documentary, impersonating the late 007 throughout, Steve Coogans comedic performance soon wore thin. He first sent up Sir Roger, pictured, on his spoof Alan Partridge TV chat show in 1994, claiming hed failed to turn up to be interviewed. Not realising the joke, Rogers then 90-year-old father George berated his famous son: It wasnt very nice of you not to show up on that show! Oddly hired to narrate the BBCs Sir Roger Moore documentary, impersonating the late 007 throughout, Steve Coogans comedic performance soon wore thin Newly-released Government documents reveal that the late Queen told Irish ambassador Ted Barrington she was dismissive of the divisive Orange Order marches which disrupted Northern Ireland in the Eighties. Barrington, reporting his conversation to Dublin, wisely warned to keep his conversation secret. Queen Elizabeth liked him and he helped lay the foundations for her 2011 visit to Dublin. Class act, Ted. Lord Mandelsons appointment as ambassador to the United States presents an opportunity to his charming Brazilian husband, Reinaldo, noted for his prowess as a dancer. The British embassy in DC has a fine ballroom. Bandmaster, strike up that samba! He is the third person to die on the trail since 2016 A bushwalker who fell from a difficult hiking trail has been found dead by police searchers. The Victorian man aged in his 30s fell from a bushwalking track on Federation Peak in the Southwest National Park, Tasmania, at about 11am on Monday. Two of his friends called police, prompting aerial and ground searches which were called off at nightfall. A Westpac Police Rescue Helicopter was launched the following morning and located the man's body at about 9am on Tuesday. The helicopter retrieved the body before airlifting the two others to safety. 'Our thoughts are with the man's family and loved ones at this difficult time,' Tasmania Police said in a statement. A report will be prepared for the coroner. Part of the walk around the peak includes shimmying across a narrow path while clinging to the exposed rock face without supports above a 600m drop. A Victorian man has died after falling from a tough bushwalking track on Federation Peak (stock image), in southwest Tasmania, on Monday The death comes after a 27-year-old man died trying to complete the Eastern Arthur Traverse last Wednesday and marks the third death on the peak since 2016. The UK-born New Zealand citizen was living in Melbourne and had travelled to the Apple Isle for the 72km hike, but failed to contact a friend as previously planned. Search efforts for the man was made more difficult because he did not take a personal locator beacon with him. Search teams eventually discovered a 'beanie, gloves and a backpack cover' leading to his body being located off a nearby cliff face. Victoria Police said he died from a 'significant fall' on one of the trails to Federation Peak which reaches 1,224 m above sea level. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services warn trails to the peak are 'not to be underestimated'. 'This walk is for physically capable and highly experienced walkers who are confident with navigation, cliffs and rock scrambling, pack hauling and extreme weather,' the Parks and Wildlife Services website reads. Inspector Colin Riley described the peak as 'probably one of the most challenging walks that we have in Tasmania'. 'It is very dangerous, it is steep and it's slippery, and the weather conditions can change extremely rapidly,' he said, the ABC reported. He is the third person to die on the hike since 2016 with authorities describing it as 'one of the most challenging' in the state with an elevation of 1,224 m above sea level (pictured) The body of a Queensland man, 54, was also found in Southwest National Park on Saturday. Police were notified of the emergency by a personal locator beacon just after 11am and dispatched a rescue helicopter to the Western Arthur Range Traverse. Another bushwalker had discovered the unresponsive man and he was confirmed deceased at the scene. A second international tourist, 60, was similarly found unresponsive on a track in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park on Christmas Day. Police attended to the man near the junction of Hansons Peak and Twisted Lakes tracks soon after but pronounced him dead. None of the deaths are being treated as suspicious. Australians who rely on digital wallets are being urged to update their debit card details before midnight if they still want to continue making purchases tomorrow. More than a third of consumers who do not use cash are now making in-store payments using smartphone digital wallets via Apple, Samsung and Google apps. But a software upgrade glitch affecting 60,000 active accounts means their debit card will need to be re-added to digital wallets so customers can keep making payments on New Year's Day. The Australian Banking Association and Australian Payments Plus or AP+ are advising customers to remove the card linked to their digital wallet and reinstall it if they have received a notice from their bank to do so. This affects debit cards linked to a digital wallet that has been used during the past three months. AP+ chief executive Lynn Kraus said customers simply needed to just delete and re-add their card on their mobile device. 'I urge anyone who has received a message from their bank to update the debit card on their mobile wallet to do it today,' she said. 'Removing and re-adding your debit card is a quick fix that will ensure EFTPOS payments process as normal from 1 January, 2025.' Australians who rely on digital wallets to pay for everyday goods and services are being urged to update their card details before midnight Australian Banking Association chief executive Anna Bligh said only a small number of consumers were affected. 'Whilst banks have been proactively reaching out to the small group of customers impacted, some are yet to take the required action,' she said. 'It's a straightforward process that will only take a matter of minutes and will ensure your debit card can continue to make payments into the new year.' AP+ released a statement on December 18 warning that about 60,000 cards would not automatically update on the digital wallet. The problem affects those who added their debit card to their digital wallet before July 2023 and use an EFTPOS-only debit card. AP+ estimated 60,000 active cards would have issues, out of the 19.1million EFTPOS cards now linked to a digital wallet. 'Even though this could impact only a minority of consumers with EFTPOS debit cards in their mobile wallet, we are acting now out of an abundance of caution as it is an extremely busy time of year for payments, and for those who won't be able to complete a payment, it will matter,' Ms Kraus said. 'On behalf of AP+ I apologise to anyone who might be impacted by this.' The Australian Banking Association and Australian Payments Plus or AP+ are urgently advising customers to remove the card linked to their digital wallet and reinstall it if they have received a notice from their bank Card issuers, including banks, have since contacted customers advising them to re-add their debit card. Those who tap or swipe the card itself will not have a problem. The Reserve Bank estimates 35 per cent of debit and credit card transactions are done via a digital wallet, up from 10 per cent in early 2020 during the start of the Covid pandemic. 'Debit card payments are more likely to be made using a mobile wallet than credit card payments,' the RBA's annual payments report said. Just 13 per cent of transactions are now done in cash, compared with 76 per cent for cards, with this figure including those paying with a card, or a digital wallet linked to a debit or credit card Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have reached a settlement in their divorce, ending a bitter eight-year legal battle - but one key $62million dispute remains unresolved. The Hollywood stars officially signed off on their divorce paperwork on Monday but the fight over a French chateau and vineyard they once jointly owned, dubbed the 'War of the Roses', is still ongoing. Ms Jolie's divorce lawyer James Simon told DailyMail.com that his client, 49, is 'relieved this one part is over.' 'Frankly, Angelina is exhausted,' he said. 'More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family', Mr Simon added. The former couple, best known as 'Brangelina', share three biological children - Shiloh, 18, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 16 - as well as their adopted children Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, and Zahara, 19. Since their parents' bitter split, Zahara, Shiloh and Vivienne has all dropped Pitt from their last name. It has been reported that Maddox and Pax do not talk to their father - while it is believed that Knox and Vivienne still speak with the Fight Club star, though they have not been pictured with him in several years. While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France, which is considered one of the country's top wine producers. Pitt, 61, who has a new 31-year-old partner, and Jolie have been locked in a bitter legal battle over Miraval after Pitt alleged Jolie sold her $62 million stake of the winery to the Stoli Group, famed for its Stolichnaya vodka, without his approval. Despite the divorce breakthrough, the Chateau Miraval dispute rages on. Both sides have said they would be willing to take the Miraval case to a jury trial or mediation, a source told told DailyMail.com. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have reached a settlement in their divorce, ending a bitter eight-year legal battle The couple share six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne and Knox. Three have dropped Pitt from their names in the aftermath of their parents' split Following his split from the actress, Brad has moved on with 31-year-old Ines de Ramon A source with knowledge of the situation added Jolie has 'been trying hard to be light after a dark time.' 'She doesn't speak ill of him publicly or privately,' the insider said. 'The kids have grown up seeing that some people have so much power and privilege that their voices don't matter. Their pain doesn't count. 'They have wanted her to speak up for herself, to defend herself over these years but she reminds them to focus on changing laws over telling public stories.' A spokesman for Brad Pitt declined to comment on Monday night. Jolie filed to end the marriage in September of 2016, just two years after tying the knot. They had dated 10 years before they decided to get married. It has since been alleged that the couple and their six children, Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne and Knox, had taken a private plane days prior to her filing in which Pitt had become physically abusive. Jolie claimed in court filings that Pitt's 'history of physical abuse' started 'well before' the plane incident. The Maleficent actress also said her ex tried to force her to sign a $8.5 million NDA to cover up his 'years of abuse'. Pitt has always denied the claims of abuse and was cleared by law enforcement following an investigation. One insider told DailyMail.com 'she could have pressed charges against him.' A source recently explained: 'Brad does want to be married again but Angie is still standing in the way, and he just wants it to be over' The former couple conceived three children - Shiloh, 18, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 16 - and also adopted Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, and Zahara, 19; Jolie pictured with all six children in 2018 in Paris Jolie filed to end the marriage in September of 2016, just two years after tying the knot While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing case regarding their battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France (pictured) 'She could have told the world what happened, she didn't. All she wanted was for their children to get the support they needed to heal. 'Pitt successfully used his power and his privilege to cover up his conduct at his family's expense and even attempted to paint her as the reason why his relationship is so challenging with the children.' In court filings, Pitt's attorneys claimed it was Jolie who sabotaged the children's relationship with the actor. They claimed former bodyguards who worked for the family overheard Jolie 'encouraging' the children to avoid spending time with their father during custody visits. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Jolie and Pitt were deemed legally single in 2019. Pitt, now 61, has been dating Los Angeles based jewelry designer Ines de Ramon, 34, for almost two years. Pitts team declined to comment on the divorce settlement. Brad and Ines were initially seen spending time with one another during a November 2022 Bono concert. The two live together, it has been claimed. Brad is said to be determined to resolve all his legal issues with his ex-wife, and that Ines is ready to support him during the continued battle amid rumours they may marry DailyMail.com previously revealed that Ines has made it clear to her friends, family, and work contacts that her relationship with Brad is off-limits for discussion. The entrepreneur even required her business contacts to sign non-disclosure agreements to ensure that no details about her personal life are leaked. Ines reportedly takes these precautions to avoid giving the actor any impression that she's using their relationship to gain fame. Now the actor is said to be looking to share his future with the brunette beauty as another source stated in early December: 'Brad is interested in getting married again, and it is all thanks to Ines. 'The thing about her is that he is so comfortable with her that it just feels right with her, and he would be more than OK to make it official.' Brad and Ines were initially seen spending time with one another during a November 2022 and the pair reportedly live together in the same house in the Los Angeles area The source noted that Ines even has the seal of approval from Brad's close circle as they continued: 'He has spoken to those close to him, including George, and everyone has signed off on him doing it, it would be a nice thing for him as it would be the official moving on from his romantic past with [Jennifer Aniston] and Angie. 'That is obviously in everyone's mind and will always be forever in the minds of millions, but it is Ines and her no nonsense nature that has finally been the person to settle down with.' The source even teased that an engagement will likely take place in the New Year as they stated: 'It is time and 2025 at some point is going to be the moment he will get engaged to her.' The man who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a Northern California woman in a horrific crime that police initially dismissed as a Gone Girl-style hoax has now been charged with two 15-year-old home invasions and sexual assaults. Matthew Muller, 47, pleaded guilty to federal kidnapping charges and was sentenced to 40 years behind bars in 2017 after Vallejo police finally charged him with abducting Denise Huskins and taking her to a secluded cabin. The former Marine told prosecutors that he suffered bipolar disorder and was medicated when he abducted Huskins two years prior. One month after the arrest, the FBI said Muller may have committed other crimes that resembled Huskins' nightmare kidnapping, offering new details of the crime and asking for the public's help, Mercury News reports. Now, as Muller is serving his prison sentence for the 2015 kidnapping that shocked America, he faces two new felony charges of assault with intent to commit rape during a burglary, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The first incident occurred in September 2009 when Muller allegedly broke into a woman's home in Mountain View, California. The victim told police she woke up to see a man in a mask pushing her face down in her bed and telling her he was committing an identity theft robbery, prosecutors claim. The intruder reportedly handcuffed the woman and bound her ankles with 'some sort of Velcro restraint.' Matthew Muller, 47, pleaded guilty to federal kidnapping charges and was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2017 Over the next two hours, the intruder allegedly made several phone calls and at one point carried the victim downstairs before returning her to the bedroom. He also allegedly made the victim drink Nyquil and used her phone to send text messages to her employer stating she was calling in sick. The intruder allegedly told the woman in her 30s he was going to rape her, but she convinced him not to. Muller then left after recommending the woman get a dog, prosecutors said. The following month, prosecutors claim, Muller allegedly broke into a Palo Alto home and ambushed a sleeping woman while he was wearing a mask over his head. A police report states that the man spoke in a 'low growl,' as if he was 'knowingly trying to disguise his voice,' while restraining her with fabric fasteners on her ankles and arms, putting plugs in her ears and covering her eyes with surgical tape. The victim was also allegedly made to drink Nyquil, and at some point, the suspect allegedly stated his intention to rape her before she pleaded with him by describing a past sexual assault, which police say caused him to relent. Muller is then accused of warning the woman against calling police as he left. Denise Huskins and her then-boyfriend, Aaron Quinn, claimed a man broke into their Vallejo, California home in 2015 Detective Mat Mustard (left) initially suspected Quinn (right) before pushing the theory the abduction was an elaborate sham similar to the plot of the movie Gone Girl Years later, Muller abducted Huskins from the home she shared with boyfriend Aaron Quinn in Vallejo, California. She claimed she saw a man in her room brandishing a fake gun, and said she and Quinn were drugged and blindfolded with blacked-out goggles before she was thrown into the trunk of a car and driven nearly 500 miles away. When police arrived at the scene they found blood spattered throughout the house, zip ties, toy guns and even a blow-up doll. Suspicion first fell on Quinn who was taken in for questioning about an argument with his girlfriend over messages she had found on his phone shortly before her disappearance. The culprit had been demanding $15,000 in ransom for Huskins' safe return during the two-day ordeal. But days later her captor inexplicably dropped her off in an alley outside her parents' home - much to everyone's astonishment. The unusual circumstances lead to police to begin suspecting the episode was a hoax. 'We were not able to substantiate any of the things that he was saying. If anything, it is Mr. Quinn and Ms. Huskins that owe this community an apology,' Vallejo Police Lt. Kenny Park said at a press conference. Muller, a former marine, was finally connected to the crime after he was arrested by police in Dublin, California for a similar home invasion Muller was finally connected to the crime after he was arrested by police in Dublin, California for a similar home invasion. Authorities said they found a cellphone they traced to Muller and a subsequent search of his car and home turned up evidence - including a computer Muller stole from Quinn, linking him to the invasion. Muller was then sentenced in 2022 to 31 years in state prison after pleading no contest to two counts of forcible rape, as Huskins and Quinn went on to wed. They welcomed their first child in 2020 and their second in 2022. Amid renewed attention to the case following a Netflix documentary series called American Nightmare, Palo Alto police revived the investigations into the two home invasions after they were contacted by Seaside Police Chief Nick Borges. Borges had been corresponding with Muller at his Arizona prison, and said he received letters from Muller in April and May from the suspect in which he volunteered information implicating himself in the 2009 home invasions and assaults. The police chief said he offered details that closely aligned with police reports and the victim's accounts, which were not publicly available. In one letter, Muller reportedly described coming forward as the assailant as art of a 'common goal of (protecting) victims and strengthening laws for future potential victims.' As part of the renewed investigation, Palo Alto police reexamined DNA traces from the fabric fasteners used in the home invasions and connected Muller to the scene. 'The details of this person's violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real,' District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement. 'Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. 'Our hope is that this nightmare is over.' Muller is now facing a possible sentence of life behind bars and is due back in court on January 17. The 39th season of the Toyota ShareLunker Program starts Jan. 1, and anglers can win prizes for big catches. Courtesy/ TPWD Tom Lang While some Texans may kick off the new year with a plate of black-eyed peas, anglers might want to set the tone for 2025 with the sweet glory of catching a prize sport fish. And with the start of the 39th season of the Toyota ShareLunker Program on Jan. 1, anglers can get a lot more than glory $5,000 shopping sprees and other prizes are a possibility for anglers who catch a largemouth bass. Anglers can also lend a hand toward the advancement of bass genetics and the future of big bass in Texas Public Waters by providing data about their catches to the program, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad From Jan. 1 to Mar. 31, anglers who reel in 13-plus pound lunker will be awarded Legacy Class status and be gifted: A merchandise kit A 13-plus pound Legacy decal for their boat VIP access to the Toyota ShareLunker Annual Awards event A replica mount of their fish from Lake Fork Taxidermy ShareLunker branded apparel from AFTCO A Bass University swag pack and annual subscription On top of the guaranteed accolades, anglers who get their lines on a big one receive entries into two prize-drawings that both award the winner a $5,000 Bass Pro Shops shopping spree: A Legacy Class drawing and the year-end Grand Prize drawing. To enter a 13-plus pound catch, anglers can call the ShareLunker hotline at 903-681-0550 to report their catch at any hour of the day through March 31. Short of 13 pounds? No problem. Anglers who catch a bass over 8 pounds or 24 inches will also be awarded a catch kit, a decal for their boat, a one-month subscription to Bass University and entry into the year-end Grand Prize drawing if they share data about their lunker with the program. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Catch data is a vital instrument Texas Parks and Wildlife Department fisheries biologists use in creating bigger, better bass in Texas, according to TPWD. Data can be shared on the Toyota ShareLunker free mobile app (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play) or at TexasShareLunker.com. Anglers who send TPWD researchers a DNA scale sample from their lunker bass for genetic analysis can also be awarded a Lews baitcast reel valued at up to $200, while supplies last, and a three-month subscription to Bass University. To submit a fish DNA scale sample, anglers can follow these simple steps, according to the program. Remove or get 3 scales from the fish using a clean tool, such as a fingernail or forceps, or from a clean surface, such as a net or a measuring board. Wipe down or rinse the tools or surface in between fish to avoid cross contamination. Press the scales between sections of a clean paper towel to dry. Put the dried scales between a new, clean section of paper towel and place it in a small envelope, such as a coin envelope. Try to avoid clumping of the scales, and dont use a plastic bag. Write your name and submission number from the app on the envelope. Make sure to keep the envelope in dry conditions to prevent degradation or fungal growth. Send the envelope to Attn: Genetics Lab at 505 Staples Road (building #2) San Marcos, TX 78666, and feel proud of yourself for contributing to the future glory of healthy Texas waters swimming with big, wonderful fish. A Midwestern city has fostered a rocky financial situation by offering extremely generous retirement benefits to public workers, experts say. Chicago's projected budget deficit is a whopping $982.4 million, according to The Civic Federation. Despite several tactics to save the city from bankruptcy, politicians have failed to get to the root of the issue - increasing pension payments to Chicago's more than 40,000 public employees. 'Retirement benefits are like free junk food to politicians - everyone loves them, and the bills dont arrive until later,' Andrew Biggs, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, wrote in a New York Times opinions piece. 'They can be ruinous for a citys long-term fiscal health.' Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson's latest attempt to reduce the city's debt - a proposed $300 million property tax increase - was shot down by City Council. The City Council passed a budget this month with far less tax ramp-ups than Johnson wanted, Biggs explained. In 2022, retirement benefits and debt service accounted for 43 percent of the city's budget. Chicago has fostered a rocky financial situation by offering extremely gracious retirement benefits to public workers In 2022, retirement benefits and debt service accounted for 43 percent of the city's budget 'In other words, Chicago is paying for the past, not investing for the future,' Biggs wrote. There are several factors contributing to the pension problem, including the ages people are retiring, the amounts they are receiving, and the contributions workers made towards their retirement funds throughout their careers. More than half of Chicago's city workers retire before they turn 60, Illinois Policy Institute reported in 2015. Biggs said that a city employee retiring after 35 years with a final salary of $75,000 would get $77,000 annually between their pension and retiree health benefits. The city is feeling the effects of their financial shortcomings. Biggs referenced the massive corporations - including Boeing, Tyson Foods and Citadel - that have fled Chicago in recent years because of the state of Chicago's 'business environment' and 'public safety.' Lack of funding has also resulted in depleted public service resources. The city's police force has declined by about 1,600 officers since 2018. On average, 49 percent of 911 calls seem to go unanswered, the city's general inspector Deborah Witzburg found in a 2023 analysis, WGNTV reported. Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson's latest attempt to reduce the city's debt - a proposed $300 million property tax increase - was shot down by City Council Growing pensions in Chicago have amplified the city's debt over the past several decades Biggs painted a vivid image of the city's dire financial state. He wrote: 'Chicago owes bondholders almost $29 billion. It also faces $35 billion in unfunded pension liabilities and almost $2 billion in unfunded retiree health benefits. 'And these figures do not include an additional $14 billion in unfunded benefits owed to Chicagos teachers.' The entire state of Illinois is experiencing Chicago's pension dilemma, according to the Illinois Policy Institute. Over the past year, pension debt across the entire state has risen from $142.2 billion to $143.7 billion, nonprofit think tank group Illinois Policy Institute reported. In 2023, more than 140,000 Illinois government workers and retirees collected over $100,000 in salaries and pensions, Muddy River News reported based on data collected by Wirepoints. Biggs said that a city employee retiring after 35 years with a final salary of $75,000 would get $77,000 annually between their pension and retiree health benefits The state's pension crisis has been in the making for decades, according to Wirepoints data from 2018. Gov. Jim Edgar 'kicked the can far, far into the future' in 1994 when he enacted a law to try and fix the then $17 billion pension deficit. But the plan only made matters worse, with the state's pension pay-off obligations now running through 2045. 'There may be no way for Mr. Johnson to get Chicago out of its fiscal mess without political and economic pain,' Biggs asserted. 'But he, and the rest of Americas big city mayors, have an obligation to try.' The parents of abducted teenager Daniel Morcombe hope state legislation has a 'domino effect' and ushers in a national public sex offender register. Thirteen-year-old Daniel was murdered after being abducted while waiting for a bus on Queensland's Sunshine Coast in late-2003. More than 20 years later, his legacy lives on with the Queensland government in 2025 set to introduce Daniel's Law - creating a publicly accessible sex offender register. It would allow parents to search the photos and names of convicted child sex offenders. Similar schemes have been adopted in South Australia and Western Australia. But Daniel Morcombe's father hopes it will soon become national, saying Queensland might yet prove the catalyst. 'It (public sex offender register) is not a silver bullet because if you haven't been caught you won't be on the register,' Bruce Morcombe said on Monday. 'But that doesn't mean it's not a great step in the right direction. We think it is important to keeping Queenslanders safe. A look at what a national child sex offender's register could look like 'It will be important in the domino effect to get all of Australia up and running with a Daniel's Law.' Under Queensland's law, the register would have three tiers including a public website with names and photos of offenders who breach reporting obligations. The public would also be able to apply to find out which high-risk offenders were living in their area. Under the third tier, parents and guardians can inquire about adults who have unsupervised time with their children. Bruce Morcombe said other states and territories must follow Queensland's lead for a national register to become a reality. 'We do want a publicly accessible sex offender register in each and every state and territory,' he said. 'Federally it is impossible to do because it is reliant on the states and territories to supply information. 'So we are just waiting for each of the states and territories to come on board, see the merits of what Queensland is about to roll out and do it themselves.' The Daniel Morcombe Foundation was set up in 2005 by his parents, teaching children of all ages about safety across Australia with five new programs to be launched in the new year. Bruce Morcombe believed Daniel's Law would complement the foundation's good work and keep children safe. Bruce Morcombe's son Daniel was abducted by paedophile Brett Peter Cowan (above) in one of the most notorious child abduction cases in Australian history However he warned parents and guardians to remain vigilant. 'To ordinary mums and dads out there please, don't fall into the trap of thinking 'that won't happen to me',' he said. 'A publicly accessible sex offender register will be helpful. But at the end of the day you must look after your kids, make sure you are one step ahead of who they are chatting to online.' The Liberal National government pushed through laws ushering in harsher sentences for children after its successful 'adult crime, adult time' election campaign. Daniel's Law will be part of the LNP's next round of justice reform. 'That was the commitment the premier gave to Bruce and Denise as we honour the memory of Daniel but also ensure no other family will go though what Bruce and Denise had to go through,' Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said. 'It's through their enduring legacy ... that his memory lives on.' A mother mourning the loss of her son who was shot dead allegedly by his own father, has told of his haunting last words before gunshots rang out. Kevin Ward, a 26-year-old man from Missouri, was allegedly killed by dad, 61-year-old Harold Luster, on Christmas Eve after a family argument boiled over into violence. Kevin, from High Ridge near St. Louis, had been visiting his father's home when things suddenly turned violent. Luster, who has been described by his ex-wife, Katherine, as being mentally and physically abusive during their relationship, had been quarreling with another family member having become worked up about his ex that he believed was 'cheating'. Luster believed Kevin's pregnant fiancee, Kaitlyn, knew something and was holding back information. But Kevin attempted to de-escalate the situation and calm his father down when he suddenly grabbed a gun and tried to destroy his truck before then allegedly turning his fury on his own son. Overhearing the commotion on the phone was his mother, Katherine, who had been called by Luster. She could clear hear her son's emotive final words before he was shot and killed: 'Dad, why are you doing this? I don't deserve this,' Kevin pleaded. Kevin Ward, a 26-year-old man from Missouri, was allegedly killed by his father while protecting his pregnant fiancee, Kaitlyn, pictured Kevin's mother, Katherine, has been left distraught after her son was shot and killed Kevin Ward's father, 61-year-old Harold Luster, is alleged to have shot his son dead on Christmas Eve after a family argument boiled over into violence Moments later, Kevin was dead having been shot in the forehead with his hands tucked into his pockets. 'Kevin sacrificed himself; he was the hero that night,' Katherine said to KSDK, recounting how her son died while shielding Kaitlyn and their unborn baby from danger. 'Kevin died protecting the love of his life and their unborn child,' Katherine said tearfully sharing her disbelief at her son's untimely death. 'He would rather die than have her and that baby taken.' 'My son was the best. He was a great kid that didn't deserve that night and I wish 1,000 times he never went down there. But me and him never would have thought this would ever happen. 'It's almost like I'm in a nightmare and I can't get out,' she said. 'I always thought it was going to be me, not my son.' Now, she wants justice for Kevin: 'My son cannot breathe, my son cannot walk, my son cannot see. Why should [Luster] get the pleasure of sitting in a jail cell? I want him to suffer every day at that memory.' Luster has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and armed criminal action. He remains in custody without bond, with a court date set for January 3. Kevin, from High Ridge near St. Louis, had been visiting his father's home when things suddenly turned violent Mom, Katherine, overheard the commotion on the phone who had been called by Luster A balloon release was held as family members and friends paid tribute to Kevin It's believed Kevin was shot because his father believed his pregnant fiancee, Kaitlyn, knew something and was holding back information Kevin, who was the oldest of four brothers, worked for the Missouri Department of Transportation and was remembered by loved ones as a man with 'big dreams ahead.' A vigil held in his honor drew dozens of mourners, including his former assistant principal, who described him as 'a man who was truly building a life for himself.' A GoFundMe has been set up to provide support to the family. During a balloon release paying tribute to her son, Kevin's mother shared a simple message about her son: 'Kevin was a special person. He didn't deserve this. He was my hero.' Weeks after the first severe case of bird flu was reported in Louisiana, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are on high alert for pandemic 'red flags' related to the virus. So far 65 confirmed human cases of H5N1 infection have been reported in 2024, following a widespread outbreak across bird and cattle farms in the United States, with California declaring a state of emergency over the virus. Scientists have warned the virus could be mutating to become more transmissible to humans. Those mutations are one of the 'concerning' trends the CDC has observed and 'a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection,' they told Newsweek. While officials say that the current risk level to the American public is still low, they are keeping an eye out for certain signs that could signal a new pandemic. So far, they are still waiting for bird flu to become transmissible from person-to-person. 'Identifying epidemiologically linked clusters of influenza A(H5N1) human cases might indicate the virus is better able to spread between humans,' a spokesperson from the center's bird flu response team said. They are also on the lookout for a spike in cases of humans getting the virus from animals as a sign that it 'is adapting to spread more easily from animals to people.' Weeks after the first severe case of bird flu was reported in Louisiana , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are on high alert for pandemic 'red flags' related to the virus. Pictured: An animal caretaker collects a blood sample from a dairy calf vaccinated against bird flu So far 65 confirmed human cases of H5N1 infection have been reported in 2024, following a widespread outbreak across bird and cattle farms in the United States, with California declaring a state of emergency over the virus Seeing any of those signifiers would 'raise CDC's risk assessment for the public,' although human-to-human infections are rare in this part of the world. 'CDC is searching for genetic changes in circulating viruses that suggest it could better transmit between humans,' the spokesperson said, as its been noted all of the American cases have come from animals. 'Thus far these types of mutations have been identified infrequently and have occurred in the context of prolonged infection of individual patients, and not at the time of initial exposure to the influenza A(H5N1) virus circulating in animals,' they added. However, the spokesperson said the initial severe infection in Louisiana was considered a 'red flag' by the CDC. Since April 2024, a total of 61 people have been diagnosed with H5N1 and the CDC has identified another seven as 'probable' cases. Thirty-seven of the 61 cases have been traced to interaction with infected cattle, with the remaining infections either due to touching diseased birds or an unknown origin. Only one of those patients was severely ill. One of the most common symptoms of human bird flu in this outbreak has been conjunctivitis or pink eye. Those mutations are one of the 'concerning' trends the CDC has observed and 'a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection' The above map shows the number of people infected with bird flu by state in the US this year. California and Washington state have recorded the most cases. Louisiana was added today (not colored on the map), after recording its first case Two human cases reported earlier this year in the US only experienced conjunctivitis. Those cases occurred in Texas and in Michigan, and were both in farmworkers who had come into contact with infected cows. Other symptoms that have been reported are mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms, pneumonia requiring hospitalization, and a high temperature of over 100F. Milder symptoms include a cough, sore throat, a runny or stuff nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Like Covid, bird flu virus infection in people cannot be diagnosed by clinical signs and symptoms alone; laboratory testing is needed. Swabs used to test for bird flu can be collected from the throat, nose, or eye of the sick person. The CDC highlights that the testing is more accurate when the sample is collected during the first few days of illness. For critically ill patients, collection and testing of lower respiratory tract specimens also may lead to diagnosis of bird flu virus infection. However, for some patients who are no longer very sick or who have fully recovered, it may be difficult to detect bird flu virus in a specimen. So far 61 confirmed human cases of H5N1 infection have been reported in 2024 in the US, following a widespread outbreak across bird and cattle farms in the United States An H5N1 vaccine is already developed and contracted with manufacturers to make almost 5 million doses, but awaits FDA approval. A Louisiana resident was hospitalized with a severe case for the first time earlier this month. The H5N1 patient is in Louisiana, and investigators said they likely caught the disease after handling sick and dead birds in a backyard poultry flock. In California, officials declared a state of emergency over the spread of bird flu, which is tearing through dairy cows in that state. Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stressed again this week that the virus poses low risk to the general public. Hats off to the staff of a Texas pizza restaurant who have managed to make the best of a bad situation after their employee tip jar was stolen. On an otherwise ordinary Friday evening, teenage thieves swiped the employees' hard-earned tips from a bowl that was sitting on the front counter at Stone Oven Pizza in Wichita Falls. But as the culprits made a run for it, they left behind a Justin Bent Rail cowboy hat, size 7 1/8, usually worth at least $100 or more. So instead of stewing over the theft, co-owner Ryan Thomas came up with a unique idea: auction the cowboy hat and donate the proceeds to the three employees who lost their gratuities. Thomas announced the auction on Stone Oven's Facebook page, sharing the story of the theft together with pictures of the hat that was left behind. 'Last night, our crew ran into an incident where some teenagers stole the tips out of the tip jar However, luckily enough, they left this hat Were not a big fan of hats around here, however, we know the beautiful community of Wichita Falls is, and we would like to open up an auction' the restaurant wrote. 'The highest bidder by Tuesday afternoon will win the prize of this authentic cowboy jicama-giga! All proceeds will be divided evenly between the three team members that lost out on Tips last night!' Within hours, the post garnered 20,000 impressions and an outpouring of support from the community. Ryan Thomas, Stone Oven Pizza co-owner, stands next to a cowboy hat being auctioned off Last Friday night, teenage thieves stole the employees' hard-earned tips from a bowl that was sitting at the front counter at Stone Oven Pizza Bidding for the hat on Stone Oven's Facebook page will close at noon on Tuesday By Monday evening, bidding for the cowboy hat had reached $160 but with dozens of others offering to chip in extra to make up for the lost tips. Thomas learned about the theft just as the restaurant was closing. 'I heard about it at midnight. It's frustrating, but we decided to turn it into something positive,' he told the Times Record News. 'I didn't think it would blow up like that. It's really awesome that the community has responded so adamantly,' Thomas admitted. The responses were as colorful as the situation itself. Many commenters speculated about the so-called 'cowboy' who fled the scene, with one poster remarking, 'It's almost impossible for me to believe a 'real' cowboy would reduce himself to stealing someone's tip money.' Another suggested the term 'drug store cowboy' might be more appropriate. Thomas has filed a police report but remains upbeat about the whole affair. 'Hopefully they'll get a proper punishment,' he wrote, adding, 'Again, we have the hat, so we kind of won?' Thomas was quick to dismiss calls for harsh penalties for the teens. The thieves left behind a Justin Bent Rail cowboy hat, size 7 1/8, usually worth at least $100 So far, bidding on the hat has reached $160 which will be split between the workers whose tips were stolen The auction has become a symbol of resilience for Stone Oven Pizza and its employees 'Cheering for teenagers going to jail isn't really our bag,' he said. Instead, he proposed a more fitting consequence: 'They should have to wait tables for an evening, so they understand the work of the individuals they stole from.' The auction has become a symbol of resilience for Stone Oven Pizza and its employees. 'This was just a real reminder that the community has our backs and our employees' backs,' Thomas said. 'Whenever something bad happens, Wichita Falls is there to band together.' The auction deadline will close at midday on Tuesday with the proceeds from the auction split among the employees whose tips were stolen. The Welsh Ambulance Service has declared a 'critical incident' as hundreds of calls waiting wait to be answered and patients stand-by for hours in hopes to see paramedics. The health service, which serves around three-million people in Wales, was said to have over 340 calls waiting to be answered when the critical incident was declared yesterday evening. More than half of the Trust's ambulances were also waiting to hand over patients outside hospitals, leading to some people waiting 'many hours' for an ambulance. The current state of the service has been boiled down to significantly increased demand across the 999 service and extensive handover delays. The Trust said it has taken additional measures to ensure it can continue to deliver a service to the public, whilst urging people to only call 999 for serious emergencies. They have advised members of the public to seek advice from a GP, pharmacist, a minor injuries unit or to visit the NHS Wales 111 website for guidance. The Welsh Ambulance Service has branded the circumstance as 'very rare', whilst adding that they were 'very sorry' for the level of service they are providing. Ambulance head, Stephen Sheldon added: 'It is very rare that we declare a critical incident, but with significant demand on our service and more than 90 ambulances waiting to hand over patients outside of hospital, our ability to help patients has been impacted. The Welsh Ambulance Service has declared a 'critical incident' as over 340 calls waited to be answered yesterday evening (file image) Patients were also left waiting 'hours' for paramedics who were left queuing outside of A&Es (file image) 'Regrettably, this means that some patients will wait longer for an ambulance to arrive and for their calls to be answered. 'For that, we are very sorry because this is not the level of service we want to provide. 'We understand that this is frustrating for patients, but can assure them that we are doing everything we can to relieve the pressure on our service. 'The public can help by only calling 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency - that's a cardiac arrest, chest pain or breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, choking or catastrophic bleeding. 'If it's not a life-threatening emergency, then it's important you use one of the many alternatives to 999, starting with the symptom checkers on our NHS 111 Wales website as well as your GP, pharmacist and minor injuries unit. 'We must protect our precious resources for those who need them the most. 'Our staff and volunteers are doing a brilliant job under difficult circumstances, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work during these very challenging times across the health service.' Chief executive Jason Killens said New Year's Eve revellers in Wales could help the Ambulance Service by drinking in moderation this evening. 'People out celebrating can help us tonight by of course, having a good time, but drinking sensibly, eating before they go out and looking after their friends,' he said. The declaration comes amid an increase in flu cases with several health boards in Wales issuing new rules regarding face coverings for staff and visitors (file image) Asked about the cause of the increased demand, he said: 'This pressure across the health system is a result of flu and Covid and other respiratory viruses circulating through the winter. 'What we have seen in the last 24 to 48 hours is an acute accumulation of those pressures.' It comes after a critical incident was also announced because of high demand - especially in southeast Wales - in December 2020. Later in 2023 an 'extraordinary incident' was issued after an ambulance waited over 28 hours outside a hospital, the BBC reports. The Trust revealed 16 ambulances had been waiting - all at once - outside A&E's at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, directly impacting other services. At the time, previous First Minister Mark Drakeford said announcing incidents like these was a 'tool' used by those in the service to permit 'mutual aid' to be ushered in, whilst forewarning more would likely be declared. The most recent 'critical incident' declaration came amid a number of Welsh health boards issuing new rules for patients and visitors as flu cases increase. Cwm Taf Morgannwg. Hywel Dda, Aneurin Bevan and Cardiff and Vale all brought in fresh face mask rules last weekend. Swansea Bay as well as Betsi Cadwaladr urged the public to avoid hospital visits for the time being if possible, while staff and visitors also now have to wear face coverings to reduce the flu spread. A desperate search continues for a girl who's been missing for a week. Jalama Buchanan, 15, was last seen in Erskineville, in Sydney's inner west, about 1.30pm on Christmas Eve. Concerned loved ones alerted police four days later after failing to locate or make contact with Jalama. NSW Police commenced inquiries into Jalama's whereabouts and launched a public on Tuesday, a week after she went missing. Police and family hold serious concerns for her welfare. Jalama is described as Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance. She is 160cm tall, medium build with dark long hair. Jalama Buchanan, 15, remains missing after disappearing from Sydney's Inner West on Christmas Eve Family haven't seen or heard from the teen (pictured) since Christmas Eve She has been known to frequent Sydney's inner-west and the NSW north coast. Sydney suburbs include Redfern, Waterloo and Erskineville. NSW north coast region include Casino, Wauchope, Coffs Harbour and Taree. Anyone with any information about Jalama's whereabouts or disappearance are urged to call Crime Stoppers. A notorious gangster told his pregnant wife 'I want you and the baby to die' before launching a horrific attack that killed the unborn child. Ahmed Karim's original sentence has now been increased from a minimum non-parole period of eight years to a non-parole period of 10 years, the Daily Telegraph reported. In September, 2021 Karim, who is a member of the notorious Alameddine crime network, attacked his then wife Leticia Chalmers at his house in Sydney's west, when they were both aged 20. Karim first grabbed Ms Chalmers and then shoved her to the ground. He then stomped on her stomach, pressed down on her with his knee and choking her until she passed out. He later woke her up by pouring cold water over her head, but the violence wasn't over. He repeatedly kicked her and said he wanted both Ms Chalmers and their unborn daughter to die. Ahmed Karim (left), who is a member of the notorious Alameddine crime network, told his pregnant wife Leticia Chalmers (right): 'I want you and the baby to die' After he left, Ms Chalmers fled outside where a neighbour found her and called triple zero. She gave birth to her daughter, who she called Adeya, but the baby did not survive. Chalmers and Karim had met at school and started dating when they were teenagers. She fell pregnant in April, 2021, but Karim was completely against her having a baby. 'Get f****** rid of it,' he told her, according to court documents. 'Leticia you will make my God curse me,' he said to Ms Chalmers over text messages. 'I don't care if it kills you. Even if it's a f****** abortion.' In June of that year Ms Chalmers had said she was willing to raise the baby on her own, and in September she married Karim under Islamic law in a bid to please him. In July 2023, Karim pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and aggravated sexual assault at the NSW District Court. But 17 months later, the Court of Criminal Appeal (CCA) found Karim's original minimum sentence of eight years and maximum sentence of 12 years was 'manifestly inadequate' given the extreme level of violence he used. A three judge panel resentenced him to a non-parole period of 10 years and a new maximum sentence of 15 years. Karim (pictured) pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and aggravated sexual assault at the NSW District Court Karim (pictured) will be eligible to apply for parole in 2031, given the time he has already spent behind bars The CCA judges said Judge Stephen Hanley had made 'no patent error' in his original judgment, but they found the sentence 'did not reflect the objective gravity' of the crime. They also said it 'fell short of recognising the community's disapprobation of the respondent's conduct'. Judge Hanley heard that Karim was addicted to gambling and also to drugs, which came about when he was selling drugs for the Alameddine crime network, as part of the R4W (Ready 4 War) syndicate. Karim tried to blame his vicious assault on Ms Chalmers on having seen his close friend Shady Kanj be shot dead in war a month before the attack in August 2021. But Judge Hanley did not accept the excuse. Karim's sentence includes a term of three years for a charge of supplying a prohibited drug on an ongoing basis. He will be eligible to apply for parole in 2031, given the time he has already spent behind bars. A newlywed has shared a powerful tribute to her husband of just nine days who tragically drowned on their Bali honeymoon. Jacob Vennix, 32 and his new wife, Kimberly Fuller, 38, were relaxing at Pasut Beach, about 30km west of Denpasar on Monday when tragedy struck. The Adelaide father-of-two became caught in a rip and was swept out to sea by a freak wave. He was unable to be revived when his body returned to shore. On Tuesday night, his shattered widow broke her silence to remember 'the most beautiful human, partner and father'. Ms Fuller captioned the heartfelt post with photo of their hands intertwined taken 'during the last night I had with him'. 'All he wanted was to marry me and love and look after me and the boys. I will make sure the boys know what an angel he was,' she wrote. 'Now an angel in heaven. I love you my darling. I'm so sorry.' Adelaide woman Kimberley Fuller (right) wrote on Facebook that her late husband Jacob Vennix (left) 'was the most beautiful human, partner and father' Ms Fuller posted a photo of their two hands intertwined that was taken 'during the last night I had with him' Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the messages of condolences for Mr Vennix. In a social media post, Mr Albanese said it was 'such deeply sad news'. 'Our thoughts are with Jacob's wife, family and friends,' he wrote. Friends of the couple paid tribute to Mr Vennix on his wife's post, with one saying he was 'one of the nicest, most amazing gentlemen I've known'. Another said Mr Vennix was 'such a nice guy' and that it had been 'an honour to have gotten to know him'. One friend complemented Ms Fuller for her post, writing that 'You've found perfect words for an unimaginable situation. 'We've been thinking of you all day! Sending all our love and we're here if you need anything.' Another added: 'The love you shared was so special and beautiful to witness, forever in our hearts and thoughts.' Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, who represents the couple's home state of South Australia in the Senate, said she was 'heartbroken for Mr Vennix's wife and loved ones' and offered her deepest sympathies. 'I know all Australians will be thinking of them,' she said. 'The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our consular officials in Bali will continue to provide consular assistance.' Pictured are the couple on their wedding day 'All he wanted was to marry me and love and look after me and the boys. I will make sure the boys know what an angel he was,' Kimberley Fuller posted on Tuesday Mr Vennix became caught in a rip and was swept out to sea when his wife immediately called for help. A local fisherman rushed help Mr Vennix in his boat, but struggled to reach him due to the shifting currents. Tabanan Police spokesperson I Gusti Made Berata said when the fisherman was finally able to drag the Aussie on board, a large wave flipped the boat. 'The victim was later swept by the wave onto the beach,' he said. 'Some locals and the victim's wife who were waiting on the beach immediately tried to save the victim. 'The victim's condition was unconscious.' Ms Fuller carried a cushion from a beach chair into the water as a floatation device to help Mr Vennix to shore Mr Vennix was rushed to Tabanan Public Hospital, where he was declared dead. Above, police at the hospital Heartbreaking footage showed Mr Vennix's wife carrying the large cushion of a beach chair into the water to help bring Mr Vennix to shore. The victim's wife performed CPR with the assistance of locals and he was eventually taken to Tabanan Public Hospital, where he was declared dead. It is understood he and Ms Fuller had wed on December 21, nine days before the freak incident. Photographs showed the couple tying the knot at the Hard Days Night function centre in Adelaide. The couple smiled from ear to ear as they exchanged their vows in front of a celebrant. One photo showed the couple happily posing with a marriage certificate on one of the lounges at the venue. 'Beautiful day marrying a beautiful man x,' Ms Fuller captioned a photo on Facebook. Mr Vennix described Ms Fuller as 'my stunning wife' and said he couldn't 'be prouder' in a heartbreaking post a day before. The couple met at a Coles supermarket in 2022 when Ms Fuller's son was playing on a Guide Dogs collection box. Their one-year-old son son is vision impaired and to raise money for research into his condition, Mr Vennix did the recent City-to-Bay fun run blindfolded, guided by Ms Fuller. A grief-stricken mother is searching for answers after her four-year-old daughter drowned in a neighbour's pool days out from Christmas. Rhiannon Egan-Lee took her eyes off Ivy for just a moment to prepare a coffee on December 17. In the four minutes it took to boil the kettle, Ivy pushed through a wooden fence at their rental property in Morwell, 150km east of Melbourne. She was found unresponsive in the neighbour's backyard pool. The little girl was airlifted to the Royal Children's Hospital, where the family made the heartbreaking decision to turn off life support on Saturday after a 11-day fight for life. 'She should be safe in her own backyard for four minutes while I make a coffee, you know? Four minutes,' Ms Egan-Lee told Seven News. 'She was so full of life. She was so full of love. She's so funny, and she's always laughing, dancing and twirling. 'She put up the hardest fight of her life. She did really well. I'm so proud of her.' Four-year-old Ivy passed away after she drowned in a neighbour's pool and could not be saved after 11 days on life support Mother Rhiannon Egan-Lee was in the kitchen making a coffee when tragedy struck The family believes Ivy climbed into the neighbour's backyard by moving a paling in the boundary fence. The fence at their rental home appeared to have gaps in the worn slats. Latrobe Valley Council has since erected a temporary fence around the neighbour's pool. A permanent fence is set to be installed imminently. The family want answers as who is responsible for both the safety compliance of the fence and pool - the housing co-op that manages their rental, the neighbour or the local council. 'The fence had come up at two meetings, two prior meetings,' Ms Egan-Lee said. 'There are strict safety guidelines,' she added. The council has since erected a temporary fence around the backyard pool but Ms Egan-Lee wants to know who's to blame A real estate agent told Seven News the pool had previously passed a council safety check. Latrobe Valley Council, however, was unable to confirm. A GoFundMe was established to help cover the costs of Ivy's funeral. 'We don't want anything, but to make the brightest most miraculous day possible for our littles uperhero,' the page states. 'Our Feisty, Loving, Happy little spooky dancing superstar babylady, forever and always remembered and loved every moment of every day. Ms Egan-Lee added: '(I) just want to give her the best, most magical day. I want to write her name in the sky.' The fundraiser had raised almost $10,200 by Tuesday night. A daycare teacher recalled how Ivy never failed to brighten her day. 'I still remember how she would always put a smile on my face when she stood at the fence to yell 'bye' and wave at me, when I walked to my car to leave work,' she wrote. 'She would never wear 'normal clothes' for daycare, only her dress ups and was absolutely unbothered [by] what others thought of it. Ivy was such a happy and smiley little girl, who loved giving hugs and cuddles to her educators.' Octavia Johnson is a general assignment reporter for the Houston Chronicle. Follow her on Bluesky (@octaviajnews.bsky.social), TikTok (@octaviaj_news) and Facebook (Octavia R. Johnson). Before joining the Chronicle, Octavia worked as a digital content producer at WATE-TV in Knoxville, Tenn., where she became a leader in producing fast-paced, audience-focused content. Octavia graduated from UNC Pembroke with a bachelor's degree in journalism before earning her master's degree in media and communications at Norfolk State University. After more than four decades of mystery, Ohio investigators have announced that a cold case homicide of a teenage girl is now solved - but a shocking twist means the suspected killer will not face prosecution. In 1981, Debra Lee Miller was found dead aged 18 her downtown Mansfield apartment. Police say the teenager was brutally beaten to death, with stains and items around her body indicating she had been savagely attacked. Though investigators spoke with a number of potential witnesses, including James Vanest, 68, a man who lived upstairs in the building, no suspects were identified, and the case went cold. For years, the case remained unsolved, despite multiple reinvestigations. But in 2021, as advancements in forensic technology emerged, detectives revisited the case. They worked closely with DNA experts and reexamined evidence that had been previously overlooked. With a fresh approach to the case, investigators were led them back to Vanest, who had moved to Canton years earlier. In 1981, Debra Lee Miller (pictured) was found dead aged 18 her downtown Mansfield apartment. Investigators spoke with a number of potential witnesses, including James Vanest, a man who lived upstairs in the building (pictured) - no suspects were identified, and the case went cold Detective Terry Butler, who had re-opened the case, recalled his interactions with Vanest in 2021, citing that he was 'cagey' and clearly attempting to establish an alibi. However, Vanest admitted to being with Miller before her death - and revealed they had sex after meeting in a bar. Butler told ABC 6 News: 'Early morning of April 29th, coming back from a bar, he's saying that she invited them in. They had consensual sex.' Vanests story, however, did little to clear him as a suspect, and DNA evidence later confirmed his involvement in the crime. Further attempts to question Vanest, including one in June of this year, proved unfruitful. When detectives confronted him, he refused to cooperate and demanded a lawyer. With a fresh approach to the case, investigators were led them back to James Vanest (pictured) who had moved to Canton years earlier Shortly after, Vanest sold his property in Canton and relocated to West Virginia, where he later was arrested after facing firearms charges. Vanest fled, returning to Canton, where U.S. Marshals attempted to serve him with a federal firearms warrant at a motel in November. What followed was a tense standoff that escalated into violence when Vanest barricaded himself inside. In an unexpected twist, a shootout ensued, leaving one officer injured and Vanest shot dead by law enforcement. Investigators said the DNA evidence was overwhelming, and now consider the case closed. The Richland County prosecutor said her office was preparing to take the case to the grand jury at the time of the shooting. It comes as a bombshell documentary has revealed how six men who were wrongfully convicted of murder were eventually exonerated. The injustice first came to light in 2002 when veteran Bronx homicide detective Bobby Addolorato told Dateline NBC Investigative Producer Dan Slepian there was one murder case that had haunted him for more than a decade. A hero snorkeller has told how he battled with a giant tiger shark before it mauled his EU diplomat friend to death in front of him while the pair holidayed in Egypt. Gianluca Di Gioia, 48, from Rome, had been snorkeling at a beach located in front of the glamorous Red Sea Sataya Resort on the coast of Marsa Alam, before he was struck. With him, was his pal Peppino Fappani, the sole survivor of the brutal attack who managed to escape after fighting off the beast. Speaking to Corriere Della Serra, Fappani's daughter, Cristina, recounted a phone call conversation she had with her father following the ordeal, which saw him hospitalised with deep bite wounds to his legs and arms. 'I heard Gianluca scream 'Help! Help!', I thought he had been struck by an illness and was having difficulty getting back to shore, so I started swimming toward him', Fappani recalled, as he continued to detail the hand-to-hand fight to his daughter. The 69-year-old said: 'Cristina, I didn't realise that there was a shark that had attacked Gianluca , also because I didn't see the shark, at least until I felt it bite my legs. 'The shark bit me and didn't let go even though I fought to the point of exhaustion to get it off me'. Following the arduous and intense battle with the predator, Fappani explained that he managed to get away a 'series of wounds to his legs and an arm', bites that required 'numerous stitches and a prophylaxis that will probably last until after New Year'. Di Gioia was in the sea alongside his friend Giuseppe Fappani, 69, pictured left. His wife is pictured right EU official Gianluca Di Gioia is the victim of a shark attack in Marsa Alam on the Red Sea The tragic incident took place at a beach in front of the Sataya Resort - one of the most glamorous on the coast of Marsa Alam, on the Red Sea Your browser does not support iframes. But despite his heroic efforts, the tiger shark had set its eyes on Di Gioia and mauled him to death in front of his distraught friend and their wives, who watched on helplessly from a nearby pier. Fappani's wife yesterday recalled the brutal attack to the newspaper after she witnessed the bloody horror unfold. She said she saw her husband swim towards Di Gioia in a desperate bid to scare away the shark before the beast sank its teeth into his arms and legs. Then in a stunning moment, Fappani reportedly managed to push the beast away for a brief moment before it furiously made its return. From the shore, as soon as she saw the pair in danger, Di Gioia's wife, Laurence, who was also watching from the pier, 'shouted for help and a dinghy left the beach'. According to Cristina, her father 'probably owes his life to some Egyptians who approached with a dinghy, managing to push the shark away'. The team then hoisted his wounded body on board and dashed him back to the beach. 'Now my parents are just waiting to be able to return to Italy. It was a terrible experience,' she added. The victim, Di Gioia, who worked at the European External Action Service, the diplomatic service of the European Union, had travelled to Egypt with his family and friends to celebrate his recent birthday and the New Year. But the tragic incident took place as he and Fappani swam just 50metres from the beach in an area where the luxury resort's jetty allows tourists to access beyond the coral reef. The pair were then rushed to a hospital in Port Ghalib where Di Gioia tragically passed away, and where Fappani is expected to be discharged from today. Fappani 'was moving in shallow waters' his wife reiterated yesterday to the mayor of Soncino Giuseppe Gallina who now, referring to his 'rather reserved' citizen, speaks of a 'heroic gesture'. Di Gioia was reportedly attacked by a tiger shark while he was snorkeling Di Gioia had been swimming just 50metres from the beach in an area where the resort's jetty allows tourists to access beyond the coral reef The Italian tourist's injuries to his arms and legs were so severe, it was not known whether he would survive the attack 'Ours is a small town of 7,500 inhabitants. We are all proud of him, we await him with open arms,' he said. The victim's wife and son, who were also present at the resort, were placed under the care of tour operator Alpitour and the Italian embassy, to receive the necessary support following the attack. Egyptian authorities have opened an investigation into the 'anomalous' incident, with the while the Ministry of the Environment and the Red Sea Governorate begin a series of investigations to reconstruct what happened. The attack - according to The Quasir Prosecutor's Office - occurred 'in deep waters outside the bathing area', that is, beyond the coral reef, which should prevent or at least make it more difficult for sharks to access the area near the beach. 'Such incidents usually occur in spring or summer,' said one of the local authorities following the case, emphasising the rarity of a shark attack this season. Following the shocking incident, authorities have closed the pier and the stretch of sea where the EU diplomat was killed. It is now also likely that the Rome Prosecutor's Office will also open an investigation, and according to Corriere Della Sera, that Fappani may also be questioned by the Carabinieri. Di Gioia was originally from Rome, but had been living in France where he worked for the European External Action Service (EEAS) of the EU for twelve years. He had arrived in Marsa Alam on December 11 to celebrate his birthday - December 21 - with his wife and several family members and friends. According to local reports, he had been planning to stay in Egypt until the New Year before the attack. An Aston Martin driver who staged an elaborate 'crash for cash' scam has been jailed for 18 months after he came close to conning insurers out of 100k. Edwin White, 65, deliberately put on the spectacle with co-conspirator Nicholas Ralph, 67, as the pair drove into each other on May 4 2018. They were sentenced at Gloucester Crown Court this month with a third individual - Clive Moore, 51 - also being punished after he claimed he had witnessed the collision. It comes as the Peugot 208 driven by Ralph had crashed into White's Aston Martin DB9 putting the two crooks 'at risk of physical harm in the pursuit of insurance money'. It was then that White leapt into action and contacted his insurer, DLG, claiming the Peugeot had hit a pothole before swerving and colliding with his Aston Martin. He stated he had paid 59,995 for the Aston Martin and bought it in a very good condition though doubts were soon raised by insurers. A few hours later Ralph then took his turn to contact his insurer, LV=, claiming insurance for his Peugeot. The pair alleged they did not know each other and LV= settled Ralph's claim for 6,300. Edwin White (pictured), 65, deliberately put on the spectacle with co-conspirator Nicholas Ralph, 67, as the pair drove into each other on May 4 2018 The Aston Martin DB9, that was involved in the crash. Three men have been sentenced after deliberately staging the car crash involving the Aston Martin for an insurance scam worth over 100K The Peugeot 208, that was involved in the crash. Serious damage can be seen to the front of the vehicle as the two involved put themselves 'at risk of physical harm in the pursuit of insurance money' Despite White's claim about the Aston Martin having been in a good condition when bought, examinations commissioned by the insurers showed that the inside was in poor condition. The insurers also found the garage where White purchased the Aston Martin did not routinely sell vehicles at such a high price. LV= commissioned a separate organisation - GBB - to carry out a further, detailed examination of the cars, which concluded damage to the Peugeot was in reality not consistent with it hitting a pothole. On July 9, White told DLG that he had found the contact details of a third party, Clive Moore, who had witnessed the collision. Moore was interviewed by LV=, during which he stated he had been driving behind the Aston Martin and seen the crash. White also sent DLG a bank statement as proof that he had paid 59,995 for the Aston Martin. When LV= made enquiries with White's bank, the bank could not trace the transaction. On August 23, LV= received an invoice worth a total of 42,832 for car hire charges. Due to the concerns it had around the validity of the claims, LV= cancelled Ralph's insurance policy and asked him to repay the 6,300 he had received in compensation. The following day, White was told that his claim had been rejected. The trio were later arrested and charged, and following a three-day trial at Gloucester Crown Court in August, were all found guilty of fraud by false representation and perverting the course of justice They were sentenced at the same court on December 19 with White, of Dibden Lane, Tewkesbury, handed 18 months imprisonment. Ralph, of Station Road, Cheltenham, was sentenced to six months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. He must also pay 6,300 compensation to LV= and a fine of 1,000. Moore, 51, of Hanham Road, Bristol, was handed a nine month community order. He must also complete 100 hours of unpaid work and pay a 1,000 fine. City of London Police said the fraud, if successful, could have cost LV= General Insurance 102,827. Det Sgt Chris Jones, from the City of London Police's Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), said: 'White and Ralph could have put themselves at risk of physical harm in the pursuit of insurance money. 'Cases like this demonstrate the greed of insurance fraudsters and the measures they will take for financial gain. 'Crash for cash fraud pushes up the cost of insurance premiums for the public. 'An average of over 1.3 million worth of bogus motor insurance claims were detected each day in 2023, showing that insurance fraud doesn't go unnoticed by the industry or law enforcement. We will work collaboratively to bring fraudsters to justice, as this case shows.' Ben Fletcher, Director of Financial Crime at LV=, said: 'Cash for crash frauds are a serious problem and these verdicts will serve as a warning to anyone else thinking of staging a crash to falsely claim compensation. 'The vast majority of claims are genuine, and we do all we can to settle them promptly, but this case highlights the lengths some people will go to make fraudulent claims. 'We are resolute in our determination to identify and defend against any type of fraud. There is a simple message here: if your claim is genuine, we will deal with it as quickly and fairly as we can. If greed takes over and you try and commit fraud, then be warned you may face unintended consequences, including being convicted in court and a criminal record.' The case was referred to IFED in September. Call data was obtained and showed that Ralph and White had been in contact with each other before and after the collision took place. Stuart Stevens, Head of Counter Fraud Intelligence at Direct Line Group, said: 'At Direct Line Group, we're committed to detecting and deterring as much fraud as possible and across our business. We have highly skilled investigators who are working continuously with intelligence to crack down on fraudulent claims like this one. 'We work with all law enforcement agencies to assist them in preparing cases for criminal prosecution. We are delighted that the perpetrators of this fraud have been brought to justice. 'Their sentences should serve as a stark warning to others that insurance fraud is not a victimless crime, and harsh sentences will be sought in support of Direct Line Group's zero tolerance approach to insurance fraud.' A 'relieved' Brad Pitt is looking to get married again in 2025 to his 32-year-old new love after his divorce battle with Angelina Jolie was settled just before New Year's Eve, insiders told MailOnline today. Ms Jolie's lawyer has said that his client has been left 'exhausted' by the eight-year fight - but her former partner has been left equally weary because he believes she has been 'dragging her feet'. The Hollywood stars officially signed off on their divorce paperwork on Monday in a wrangle that began in 2016. Despite the grief of becoming estranged from at least three of their six children, Brad has found love with Los Angeles jewelry designer Ines de Ramon who may even be planning to have a family herself. A Hollywood insider with links to Team Pitt told MailOnline today: 'They are looking to get married in the next year and Brad has settled because he wants to keep his children on side for his new marriage to go ahead. 'Apparently Ines is keen to have children too and pressured him to get it all sorted out as soon as possible'. Brad and Ines began dating almost two years ago and later moved in together. He is said to have introduced her to his close circle, which includes best friend George Clooney. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have reached a settlement in their divorce, ending a bitter eight-year legal battle Brad and Ines began dating in around November 2022 and sources claim they could soon marry The couple share six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne and Knox. Three have dropped Pitt from their names in the aftermath of their parents' split. The divorce could help Brad build bridges with his children 'Brad will be relieved that he can finally move on and marry again. He has wanted his divorce settled long before now but he believes Angelina has been dragging her feet', another LA insider told MailOnline. 'Angelina will argue she has been fighting for the best deal for their family, but whatever the truth, it ultimately clears the path for him walking down the aisle with Ines'. The source added: 'He will hope that he can build bridges with his children now that the divorce is finalised, but that looks like a long hard road'. Ines is said to have made it crystal clear to her friends, family, and work contacts that her relationship with Brad is now so serious that it is off-limits for discussion. The entrepreneur even required her business contacts who work with her in the jewelry world to sign non-disclosure agreements to ensure that no details about her personal life are leaked to the press. Ines reportedly takes these precautions to avoid giving the actor any impression that she's using their relationship to gain fame - and reassure him about how seriously she takes their privacy. Brad and Ines live together in LA-area, but the exact location is said to be closely guarded. Last month a source made it crystal clear that he is serious about her - and marrying again when the divorce from Angelina goes through. 'Brad is interested in getting married again, and it is all thanks to Ines', the insider declared to DailyMail.com. 'He is so comfortable with her that it just feels right with her, and he would be more than okay to make it official.' The source noted that Ines has the seal of approval from Brad's close circle. 'He has spoken to those close to him, including George, and everyone has signed off on him doing it, it would be a nice thing for him as it would be the official moving on from his romantic past with [Jennifer Aniston] and Angie', the source went on. 'That is obviously in everyone's mind and will always be forever in the minds of millions, but it is Ines and her no nonsense nature that has finally been the person to settle down with. The source predicted that an engagement will likely take place in the New Year as they stated: 'It is time and 2025 is going to be the moment he will get engaged to her.' After eight years, the 'Brangelina' divorce saga is done and dusted. Ms Jolie's divorce lawyer James Simon told DailyMail.com that his client, 49, is 'relieved this one part is over.' 'Frankly, Angelina is exhausted,' he said. 'More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family', Mr Simon added. The former couple, best known as 'Brangelina', share three biological children - Shiloh, 18, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 16 - as well as their adopted children Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, and Zahara, 19. Since their parents' bitter split, Zahara, Shiloh and Vivienne have all dropped Pitt from their last name. It has been reported that Maddox and Pax do not talk to their father - while it is believed that Knox and Vivienne still speak with the Fight Club star, though they have not been pictured with him in several years. While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France, which is considered one of the country's top wine producers. Pitt, 61, and Jolie have been locked in a bitter legal battle over Miraval after Pitt alleged Jolie sold her $62 million stake of the winery to the Stoli Group, famed for its Stolichnaya vodka, without his approval. Despite the divorce breakthrough, the Chateau Miraval dispute rages on. Both sides have said they would be willing to take the Miraval case to a jury trial or mediation, a source told told DailyMail.com. Following his split from the actress, Brad has moved on with 32-year-old Ines de Ramon A source with knowledge of the situation added Jolie has 'been trying hard to be light after a dark time.' 'She doesn't speak ill of him publicly or privately,' the insider said. 'The kids have grown up seeing that some people have so much power and privilege that their voices don't matter. Their pain doesn't count. 'They have wanted her to speak up for herself, to defend herself over these years but she reminds them to focus on changing laws over telling public stories.' A spokesman for Brad Pitt declined to comment on Monday night. Jolie filed to end the marriage in September of 2016, just two years after tying the knot. They had dated 10 years before they decided to get married. It has since been alleged that the couple and their six children, Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne and Knox, had taken a private plane days prior to her filing in which Pitt had become physically abusive. Jolie claimed in court filings that Pitt's 'history of physical abuse' started 'well before' the plane incident. The Maleficent actress also said her ex tried to force her to sign a $8.5 million NDA to cover up his 'years of abuse'. Pitt has always denied the claims of abuse and was cleared by law enforcement following an investigation. One insider told DailyMail.com 'she could have pressed charges against him.' A source recently explained: 'Brad does want to be married again. He just wants it to be over' The former couple conceived three children - Shiloh, 18, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 16 - and also adopted Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, and Zahara, 19; Jolie pictured with all six children in 2018 in Paris Jolie filed to end the marriage in September of 2016, just two years after tying the knot While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing case regarding their battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France (pictured) 'She could have told the world what happened, she didn't. All she wanted was for their children to get the support they needed to heal. 'Pitt successfully used his power and his privilege to cover up his conduct at his family's expense and even attempted to paint her as the reason why his relationship is so challenging with the children.' In court filings, Pitt's attorneys claimed it was Jolie who sabotaged the children's relationship with the actor. They claimed former bodyguards who worked for the family overheard Jolie 'encouraging' the children to avoid spending time with their father during custody visits. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Jolie and Pitt were deemed legally single in 2019. Pitt, now 61, has been dating Los Angeles based jewelry designer Ines de Ramon, 32, for almost two years. Pitts team declined to comment on the divorce settlement. Brad and Ines were initially seen spending time with one another during a November 2022 Bono concert. The two live together, it has been claimed. Brad is said to be determined to resolve all his legal issues with his ex-wife, and that Ines is ready to support him during the continued battle amid rumours they may marry 'Brad is interested in getting married again, and it is all thanks to Ines. 'The thing about her is that he is so comfortable with her that it just feels right with her, and he would be more than OK to make it official.' The source noted that Ines even has the seal of approval from Brad's close circle as they continued: 'He has spoken to those close to him, including George, and everyone has signed off on him doing it, it would be a nice thing for him as it would be the official moving on from his romantic past with [Jennifer Aniston] and Angie. 'That is obviously in everyone's mind and will always be forever in the minds of millions, but it is Ines and her no nonsense nature that has finally been the person to settle down with.' The source even teased that an engagement will likely take place in the New Year as they stated: 'It is time and 2025 at some point is going to be the moment he will get engaged to her.' Public sector workers might be offered higher salaries in return for lower pensions under plans to avoid more pay rows, it has been revealed. Teachers, nurses and civil servants could be among those to receive thousands of pounds more in their pay packets now but, in exchange, have their pensions reduced. It is a model being considered as part of efforts to ease staffing problems without increasing overall costs to taxpayers, according to The Times. The NHS and schools have suffered a series of staff strikes in recent years amid clashes between trade unions and ministers over pay levels. Labour offered a salary boost of between 4.75 per cent and 6 per cent to millions of public sector workers after winning the general election in July. But there have since been fresh threats of industrial action by unions after the Government recommended a less generous 2.8 per cent pay rise for next year. The NHS and schools have suffered a series of staff strikes in recent years amid clashes between trade unions and ministers over pay levels There have been fresh threats of industrial action by unions after Chancellor Rachel Reeves recommended a less generous 2.8 per cent pay rise for next year The Cabinet Office is said to be reviewing the balance between pay and pensions, although the Treasury has not yet been consulted on the plans. Officials are exploring ways to allow staff to enjoy higher pay now - when they may be buying a house or having children - in exchange for a lower income in retirement. Lord O'Donnell, the former cabinet secretary, told the newspaper: If you increase a civil servant's pay by 1,000 you could reduce the net present value of their pension by more than 1,000, which makes debt more sustainable 'But it would also be a trade-off that makes sense to the civil servant because having that money upfront will mean a bank gives them a mortgage. 'It's a win-win but it's just this quirk of our accounting that stops it happening.' He added: 'An economically literate chancellor like Rachel Reeves will understand that this is making the public finances more sustainable and is very much in the spirit of the changes to the fiscal rules in the Budget.' Sir Steve Webb, a former pensions minister, said there was 'certainly a debate to be had about whether we have the right balance for public sector workers between pay and pensions'. He added: 'Many public servants might be interested in an option of higher pay now in exchange for a less generous pension offering.' Public sector pensions are often much more generous than those in the private sector. A recent analysis found that nearly 1 in every 4 raised in council tax is now being spent on staff pensions by local authorities. A Government spokesman said: 'We are focused on supporting the civil service with the necessary tools it needs to deliver change for working people'. A cabin crew member has died after a passenger plane was forced to make an emergency landing. Thick clouds of smoke filled the aircraft as it experienced an engine problem during a flight from Bucharest, Romania, to Zurich, Switzerland. The Airbus A220-300 jet, with 74 passengers and five crew on board, made an unscheduled emergency landing in Graz, Austria on December 23. Passengers and crew were quickly evacuated off the jet, and 12 people were urgently treated at the scene. One worker was airlifted to hospital and taken into intensive care, and a second cabin crew member was also dashed to hospital. One of the cabin crew members on board the plane, described as a 'young man', has now died a week on. A Swiss International Air Lines spokesman said: 'We must report, with the deepest of sorrow and regret, that our young colleague died in the hospital in Graz on Monday.' Chief executive Jens Fehlinger added: 'We are all deeply shocked by the death of our beloved colleague. The Airbus A220-300 jet, with 74 passengers and five crew on board, made an unscheduled emergency landing in Graz, Austria on December 23 Footage shows heavy smoke engulfing the cabin on the Swiss airlines flight from Bucharest, Romania , to Zurich, Switzerland Local police said that 12 passengers and five crew members were injured in the incident. One crew member has now died (pictured: an ambulance on the tarmac after the aircraft made its emergency landing) 'The news leaves us deeply saddened and stunned. Our thoughts are with the young man's relatives, whose pain must be boundless. 'I offer them my heartfelt condolences on behalf of all of us at Swiss.' Swiss said in a statement that 'out of respect for the loved ones, we will not provide detailed information about our employee or the cause of death'. Initial investigations into the incident have suggested that the plane experienced a technical defect in one of the engines. This caused the cabin and cockpit to fill up with smoke as crew and passengers scrambled to find safety. Austrian prosecutors have also launched an inquiry into possible negligent bodily injury. Swiss chief operating officer Oliver Buchhofer said: 'This is the saddest of days for us all. 'Losing our colleague and fellow member of our Swiss team leaves me distraught and dismayed.' But he reassured that the airline would 'with the relevant authorities, to determine the causes involved.' The aircraft and engine manufacturers have both been informed, according to the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). Following the incident last week, a witness told Swiss newspaper 20 Minuten that the flight attendant was unconscious at the time of the evacuation and had to be resuscitated by other crew members. Another passenger said that an explosion caused the smoke in the cabin. 'There was a strange noise, a lot of smoke and people couldn't breathe. I didn't know what had happened,' the woman told Austrian outlet Kleine Zeitung. She said she was sleeping when the 'strange noise' woke her up and she smelled smoke. 'I panicked, I didn't know what was going on. I tried to calm myself down,' she added. The company confirmed the emergency landing in a statement last week, saying: 'SWISS flight LX1885 from Bucharest to Zurich made an emergency landing in Graz due to smoke. All 74 passengers and 5 crew members have been evacuated, with 17 requiring medical attention. It added that a special flight was due to depart at 9.45am on Tuesday to return the passengers to Zurich before Christmas Day. This is a breaking news story. More to follow. Tony Blair's government made the Al-Qaeda terror threat seem 'much more dramatic' than it was by stationing hundreds of British soldiers and armoured vehicles in a 'ring of steel' around Heathrow, newly-released files have revealed. Cabinet ministers admitted they were blown away by scale of the military contingent deployed to guard the UK's second busiest airport back in February 2003. In striking scenes, around 450 heavily armed troops - some in armoured Scimitar reconnaissance vehicles - were deployed to the site in an operation personally authorised by the prime minister. The move, reportedly in response to warnings that terrorists had managed to obtain surface-to-air missiles which could be used to bring down a passenger jet, prompted widespread public concern. Files released by the National Archives at Kew, west London, show that then Home Secretary David Blunkett told the Cabinet that while the deployment had been agreed with the security services and the military, they had not been expecting such a huge show of force. 'The armed forces had not been expected to use their military hardware quite so visibly and this had, perhaps, led to the threat seeming more dramatic than was in reality the case,' he said, according to the minutes of the meeting. He said the action had been authorised in response to a 'specific terrorist threat' identified by the security services, but did not go into detail. 'The security services were continuing to work on assessing the threat but were having to strike a difficult balance between intervention and surveillance,' he added. Hundreds of British Army soldiers, accompanied by armoured vehicles, were deployed to Heathrow in 2003 (pictured is a passenger passing troops at the airport) The deployment was in response to a potential Al-Qaeda missile attack But the huge 'ring of steel' formed by the military around the airport left government ministers stunned. Pictured are soldiers patrolling the airport with armed police In discussion, ministers dismissed claims the deployment operation was 'merely a tactic' to build support for the impending invasion of Iraq by British and US forces as 'absurd but not surprising'. But with the threat of Islamist terrorism on the rise after the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York in 2001, they acknowledged lessons needed to be learned so as not to create unnecessary public alarm in the face of future incidents. 'Unfortunately, greater threats were likely from time to time for the foreseeable future and the government and the public would have to learn not to overact to them,' the minutes noted. 'In the past, IRA threats had been part of the nation's life and there had been less hysteria in the way they were covered by the press.' At Heathrow, troops from the 1st Battalion the Grenadier Guards and the Household Cavalry Regiment were brought in to guard the critical travel hub. Soldiers, armed with SA80 assault rifles patrolled the airport complex alongside armed police. Convoys of army vehicles and police cars included several Scimitar armoured reconnaissance vehicles which spent short periods at the terminals and other sites. Scimitars, which resemble small tracked tanks, can travel at up to 50mph and were last deployed at Heathrow in 1994 after a failed IRA mortar attack from outside the perimeter fencing. The shells failed to explode and no one was injured. In striking scenes, around 450 heavily armed troops - some in armoured Scimitar reconnaissance vehicles - were deployed around the UK's busiest airport in February 2003 in an operation personally authorised by the prime minister Two British soldiers are seen patrolling Terminal 4 of Heathrow Airport in February 2003 Armed police stand guard next to soldiers in a Scimitar armoured reconnaissance vehicle Pictured are British soldiers travelling in an armoured vehicle outside of Heathrow Airport In a statement at the time, Scotland Yard said: 'From time to time it is necessary to raise levels of security activity. We think it is prudent to do so now. 'The current strengthening of security is precautionary and is related to action being taken in other countries and the possibility that the end of the religious festival of Eid may erroneously be used by Al-Qaeda and associated networks to mount attacks.' The newly-released files also revealed Tony's Blair's Labour government pressed ahead with unrestricted migration from eastern Europe despite mounting concerns among senior ministers, according to newly-released official files. The papers showed deputy prime minister John Prescott and foreign secretary Jack Straw both urged delay, warning of a surge in immigration unless some controls were put in place. But others - including David Blunkett - argued the economy needed the 'flexibility and productivity of migrant labour' if it was to continue to prosper. The files from their discussions leading up to the EU's enlargement in May 2004 suggest the government knew its immigration claims were ludicrously low. Ministers had insisted between 5,000 and 13,000 migrants would come each year when former Soviet bloc countries such as Poland joined the EU on May 1 that year. In the end, more than a million people from eight new member countries made the UK their home. Public sector workers are more likely to take mental health sick days than employees in the private sector, an analysis has found. The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures showed, in 2022, 12.9 per cent of sickness absence within the public sector was due to mental health conditions. This compared to 6.7 per cent in the private sector across the same year. Mental health conditions recorded by the ONS include stress, depression and anxiety. Overall, 18.5 million days were lost in sickness absence to mental health conditions in 2022 across all sectors. This compared to 44.3 million days lost in sickness absence to minor illnesses, which include coughs, colds, flu, sickness, nausea and diarrhoea. There was a 3.6 per cent sickness absence rate in the public sector in 2022, compared to 2.3 per cent in the private sector. Tory MP Helen Whately, the shadow work and pensions secretary, called on the Government to 'get a grip' on the 'growing problem'. There was a 3.6 per cent sickness absence rate in the public sector in 2022, compared to 2.3 per cent in the private sector Helen Whately, the shadow work and pensions secretary, urged ministers to 'get a grip' Ms Whately told the Telegraph: 'After the pandemic, more people are struggling with their mental health, and the numbers are only going one way. 'The Government must get a grip of this to avoid sky-high benefit bills, lost productivity and wasted lives. Instead they're dragging their feet on vital reforms. 'Labour clearly isn't serious about this after our plan to save 12billion on the spiralling sickness and benefit budget. 'Britain deserves better than a Government which can't, or won't, tackle this growing problem.' The sickness absence rate in 2022 in central government was 2.1 per cent, compared to 3.5 per cent in local government, and 5 per cent in the NHS and health sector. There are around six million people employed in the public sector in the UK, compared to around 27 million in the private sector. Joanna Marchong, investigations campaign manager at the TaxPayers' Alliance, accused council workers of 'treating sick leave like an extended holiday on the public purse'. 'Sick leave rates in the public sector are consistently higher than in the private sector, and now 'mental health' is fast becoming the latest catch-all excuse for shirking responsibility,' she told the newspaper. 'Town hall bosses need to make sure that those that take sick leave have verifiable and legitimate reasons to take time off.' A spokesman for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said: 'Councils are independent employers, and they are responsible for managing their own workforces.' First there was the terrible weather and reports of a wall of geese. Next, an aborted first landing at Muan International Airport in South Korea. Then a catastrophic second attempt which saw Jeju Airs flight 7C2216 hurtle down the runway, veer to one side and smash into a concrete wall. The impact was devastating: the Boeing 737-800 burst into a giant fireball as the surrounding area was littered with seats, cushions, magazines, handbags and shoes. Of the 181 people on board mostly Korean nationals on their way home from the Thai capital of Bangkok just two cabin crew members survived. Everyone else including three generations of one family and the pilot were killed. Sundays tragedy marked the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korea in almost 30 years. But it has also thrown the global airline industry into turmoil as theories and counter-theories swirl. Here, with the help of renowned aviation security expert Julian Bray, Jane Fryer unpicks the nine unanswered questions of the doomed South Korean jet. The blaze after the plane crash in South Korea, which was the deadliest aviation disaster in the country in almost 30 years COULD IT HAVE BEEN NORTH KOREAN SABOTAGE? During the first, aborted descent, witnesses on the ground said they heard a bang and saw a ring of smoke rising from one of the wings. This could, theoretically, have been caused by a bomb hidden in a suitcase in the hold, but such an explanation is highly unlikely. The plane could also have been hit by a missile. One other possibility is that a highly trained service agent severed the hydraulic cables. Though as Mr Bray puts it: Now we are really getting into James Bond territory. Hijacking is also unlikely. Not least because, in his communications running up to the crash, the pilot sounds calm and composed, deploying no key security words or pressing any alarms. But however implausible they might sound, investigators will have to examine all possibilities before ruling them out. WAS A BIRD STRIKE REALLY THE CAUSE? Bird strikes collisions between a plane or drone in flight and a bird are common. In the UK, there were more than 1,400 bird strikes reported in 2022, of which about 100 resulted in damage to the aircraft concerned. In this case, all the signs point to a bird strike. There were reports of a wall of geese in the vicinity of the airport and, at 8.57am on Sunday morning, air traffic control warned of bird activity in the area. Two minutes later, the pilot gave the call mayday, mayday, mayday and bird strike, bird strike, go-around, abandoning his first landing. Around that time, a passenger messaged a relative to say that they had seen a bird caught in the wing this coincided with onlookers noticing the bang and a ring of smoke. The wreckage of flight 7C2216 at Muan International Airport This could be the engine bottling up pressure after ingesting the bird, which is suddenly released. Or could be the engine giving up, says Mr Bray. And one of the turbo fans made of carbon fibre could have sheared off and cut a hydraulic line [which controls the landing gear and brake plates]. But a bird in the engine could only ever be part of the problem. Hydraulics are deliberately split up to avoid this sort of disaster, and there are also several back-up systems in case of failure. WHY WAS THE SECOND LANDING ATTEMPT A DISASTER? By the time the pilot was circling for his second landing attempt, he knew that he was in trouble. There are two methods of slowing down a jet plane while landing. Firstly, using the flaps on the wings to act as an air braking system these can be extended to a 45-degree angle to increase the area of the wing and therefore reduce speed. Secondly, when the plane hits the runway, the reverse thrust system acts like an air brake to bring the aircraft down to a safe speed. Both have back-up systems automatic and manual in case of emergency. However, it appears that neither of these systems functioned properly on flight 7C2216, as the plane hurtled on to the runway at full velocity and landed on its belly in a textbook emergency landing. But with no wheels, the pilot had no way of steering as the plane sped down the runway nor when it veered off to the right, towards the solid concrete wall, and exploded in a huge fireball. WHAT WAS A CONCRETE WALL DOING ON THE RUNWAY? This wall housed an antenna base to help planes land in poor weather. Usually an antenna base near the runway would be collapsible, but this one had brick pillars and was filled with blocks. Mr Bray explains: There is an international code that governs the design of airports to keep them safe. The Jeju Air aircraft is seen going down the runway before crashing Firefighters search the wreckage of the plane, after the disaster that killed 179 people Usually any barriers are limited to hedges and chain-link fences with concrete posts, which would slow the aircraft, but not destroy it on impact. This is very odd and needs investigating because of course it should not have been here. WAS THERE A PROBLEM WITH THE PILOT? There are no current indications the pilot was suicidal, but all options will be considered. It is also not clear whether there were one or two pilots on the flight deck. Cost-cutting across airlines has resulted in the single-manning of some cockpits. COULD THE RUNWAY HAVE BEEN TO BLAME? At 2,800m, this was a long runway and in usual circumstances would be more than sufficient. After the initial aborted landing, the pilot announced that he was going to go around and take the runway from the opposite direction. He did not ask the air traffic team but simply informed them probably because he was unable to turn the plane around as the controls were unresponsive, Mr Bray suggests. There is nothing sinister about coming at the runway from a new direction. All busy airports have two-way traffic. Kang Ko, Jin Lee Seon and their son died on board the flight. They shared pictures of their first family holiday on Instagram In an emergency like this, air traffic controllers would already have cleared the runway and the area around it, and got the fire engines on standby. DID THE WEATHER PLAY A PART IN THE CRASH? A severe weather warning had been issued, but experts consider bad weather a red herring. This was an experienced pilot with 9,800 flying hours. He knew what he was doing, says Mr Bray. COULD THE PLANES BLACK BOXES REVEAL ANYTHING? Every plane carries a voice data box and a data recorder. Known collectively as the black boxes, they are, in fact, bright orange and were kept up high near the rear exit on this plane. The voice data box is a continuous recording device, saving and timecoding all conversations in the cockpit between the pilots and communications with air traffic control in the hour before the crash. The data recorder tracks every movement the pilot makes buttons pushed, switches flicked and so on in the same time period. The recordings can take weeks to decode but together can help build up a complete picture. However, in this case, the data recorder is damaged, which could hamper investigations. WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN THE AFTERMATH? No expense will be spared in the investigations to find out what went wrong not least because there are 5,000 Boeing 737-800s jetting around the world. As well as decoding the black boxes and unravelling the planes last minutes, workers will rebuild the plane using a skeleton frame and all the pieces of fuselage they can salvage from the debris field. By analysing the fragments, a more complete picture can be built. For example, if the shrapnel bends outwards, this could indicate an explosion on board. If inwards, this could be a sign of an external force such as a missile. Restaurant owner David Straker was so cheesed off when freshly delivered dairy products were being stolen from outside his business he turned detective to try and solve the crime himself. Security cameras showed hooded thieves stealing the goods from a storage box minutes after they were dropped off, so he came up with the ingenious idea of using an AirTag to track the loot. Mr Straker, 56, who owns the William and Victoria wine bar and restaurant in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with his wife Johanna, 53, decided to use a Brie wheel as bait to lure the thieves into his trap. He bought the cheese for around 10, carefully unwrapped it and slid the AirTag which is about the size of a coin into the soft cheese before sealing the wrapper up again. The Brie was left in the storage box at the back of his restaurant at night and the delivery driver was told not to touch it when he dropped off his usual early morning order of milk, cream and cheese. Sure enough moments after the delivery a hooded thief moved in and took the Brie wheel from the unlocked box at 7.25am on Friday 6 December. Mr Straker was able to follow the location of the Brie on his phone as the Apple tracking device inside it emits a Bluetooth signal that is picked up by nearby phones, with the location being shown on a map. For more than three weeks Mr Straker has monitored his stolen Brie as it has been taken to different locations around Yorkshire. David Straker from Harrogate whose restaurant the William and Victoria which has been victim of a cheese thief The cheese thief in action: Security cameras show hooded thieves stealing the goods from a storage box minutes after they were dropped off Your browser does not support iframes. At one point when the Brie appeared to have settled in a property in Harrogate he plucked up the courage to confront whoever lived there, only to think better of the idea when he arrived at the house. There were mattresses outside and a strong smell of a certain substance coming from the house and I thought no this is not a good idea and decided to leave it,' he said. Since the tracking started the Brie has been taken to various addresses around Harrogate and neighbouring Knaresborough, as well as going to Otley and Menston in West Yorkshire. He said: I think it has been driven around in a van, he said. It has been moving around so much I decided to wait until it had stopped before reporting it to the police. It is also our busiest time of the year and I just havent had the time to go to the police and give a statement. I am going to do that this week and hand over my evidence. Mr Straker is not confident the police will identify the culprit. I feel bad saying it but I dont have great expectations of the police, he said. He decided to use the tracker to follow the cheese after hearing on the grapevine that goods were being suspiciously offered to restaurants around town. On a complete whim I thought I could see if it turned up at another restaurant and where it could be, he said. With the AirTag being stationary since Christmas Eve it seems likely the Brie, or at least the cheesy AirTag has been dumped in a commercial bin in Knaresborough, five miles from his restaurant. David Straker poses with his cheese. He has issued the following warning: 'Next time you see a suspicious cyclist with a backpack full of dairy, spare a thought for us and our lost Brie. And remember: crime might pay, but cheese always costs' Beware the cheese thief: Freshly delivered dairy products were being stolen from outside Straker's business so he turned detective to try and solve the crime himself The identity of the thief remains unknown. However, Mr Straker says his main concern is to raise public awareness of the annoying and costly petty thefts The identity of the thief remains unknown. However, Mr Straker said his main concern was to raise public awareness of the annoying and costly petty thefts. We put out a light-hearted post on our social media and you could say its just a bit of cheese, but its actually more than a bit of cheese, its stuff that we are buying to sell. The cost of our food is going up, the cost of our utilities is going up and its getting harder and harder to run a business, so just little things like that do contribute as our margins are shrinking. Mr Straker said he has had hundreds of pounds worth of goods stolen in recent months, but now has a properly locked and secured container to hold deliveries that has so far prevented further thefts. I have a zero tolerance towards theft, he said. Adding a message on his website to his customers: Next time you see a suspicious cyclist with a backpack full of dairy, spare a thought for us and our lost Brie. And remember: crime might pay, but cheese always costs. Fears of an all-out war erupting between Afghanistan and Pakistan are rising after the Taliban sent troops to the border as the two countries continue to trade deadly strikes. The Afghan Taliban has unleashed a series of devastating artillery strikes on Pakistani military checkpoints along the tense border, sparking fears of a full-blown conflict between the two neighbours. The hardline Islamist group boasted it had obliterated 'several' Pakistani positions and mobilised battalions of fighters to confront any retaliation from Islamabad, in a chilling show of force. The attacks come in response to Pakistani airstrikes targeting the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an ally of the Afghan Taliban, in eastern Afghanistan. Local Afghan officials claimed the strikes killed 46 civilians, including women and children, further inflaming tensions. In response, the Afghan government promised 'retaliation' on Saturday, with Afghan Taliban forces claiming to have targeted 'several points' near the Durand Line, the contested border between the two nations. In a chilling statement to The Telegraph, Taliban officials declared they were prepared for the conflict with Pakistan to escalate further, raising fears that the region is edging closer to war. 'We don't care if they have a nuclear bomb we have faith and know that God is with us,' a senior Taliban official said. The Afghan Taliban has unleashed a series of devastating artillery strikes on Pakistani military checkpoints along the tense border Taliban security personnel gather at the site two days after air strikes by Pakistan in the Barmal district of eastern Paktika province on December 26, 2024 Pakistan air strikes in an eastern border region of Afghanistan killed 46 civilians, the Taliban government said on December 25 A Taliban security personnel keeps watch from a helicopter two days after air strikes by Pakistan Your browser does not support iframes. The Taliban has vowed to stand firm against any retaliatory strike from Pakistan, with Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence on high alert and additional forces poised to reinforce the volatile border. The Taliban foreign minister warned Pakistan over the weekend, urging Pakistani authorities not to 'underestimate our capabilities'. Why are there clashes? For decades, Pakistan was considered a significant and influential patron of the Afghan Taliban. Following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks, numerous Afghan Taliban leaders sought refuge in Pakistan. But amid American drone strikes in Pakistan's border regions, the TTP - Pakistan Taliban - emerged. Even though both groups share ideological ties, the TTP launched a brutal campaign against the Pakistani state. The Pakistani military has made several attempts to eliminate the TTP, pushing many of its leaders into Afghanistan. But when the Afghan Taliban regained control of Kabul in 2021, Pakistan hoped to leverage its ties to hinder TTP activity. Those efforts appear to have failed, however, considering the recent surge in attacks in Pakistan. Advertisement 'We will not forget Pakistan's benevolence during the time of jihad, but we will not forget Pakistan's aggression on Afghan soil today,' Amir Khan Muttaqi said. 'I have a message for Pakistani authorities: don't think we are weak and don't attack us,' he added. 'We are having difficulties but are very brave.' But in a dramatic twist, Islamabad finds itself at odds with the very group it once supported. Pakistan had covertly backed the Afghan Taliban during the US-led war in Afghanistan, hoping to secure influence in the region. Yet, the fallout from the Taliban's return to power has seen Pakistan's long-running battle with the TTP intensify. The TTP, emboldened by weapons reportedly funneled to them by the Afghan Taliban - many seized from retreating US forceshas launched a surge of deadly attacks on Pakistani soil since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in 2021. Pakistan's military leaders had bet on their former allies helping to suppress the TTP, but instead, they now face a ferocious double threat. 'The Mujahideen successfully attacked and destroyed several enemy positions and caused significant damage,' a senior Taliban defence ministry official said, referring to the strikes over the weekend. 'Several areas were targeted with artillery, and we have destroyed many of their checkpoints and equipment. They should know they cannot violate our sovereignty.' 'Several battalions have been dispatched to the border, and we are prepared for anything we didn't kick NATO out only to be intimidated or humiliated by Punjabis,' he said. A Pakistan security official said the bombardment had targeted 'terrorist hideouts' The Taliban foreign minister warned Pakistan over the weekend, urging Pakistani authorities not to 'underestimate our capabilities' The Taliban has vowed to stand firm against any retaliatory strike from Pakistan, with Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence on high alert and additional forces poised to reinforce the volatile border Pakistan has accused Kabul of allowing militants to cross the border unchecked, a charge fiercely denied by the Afghan Taliban, who insist they have not permitted any attacks to be launched from their territory. The escalating crisis has prompted international alarm, with Russia stepping in on Sunday to urge both sides to exercise restraint. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow was 'deeply concerned' by the situation and called for 'constructive dialogue' to defuse tensions. But signs of further conflict loom large. A Taliban interior ministry official revealed to the newspaper that Kabul was evaluating its next moves in case of more Pakistani attacks. Meanwhile, Taliban-linked social media accounts have been sharing videos of troop movements near the border, in an apparent show of strength. One striking clip shows Soviet-era tanks, relics of the USSR's failed invasion of Afghanistan, being transported towards the front lines. Another video features NATO military vehicles, abandoned during the US withdrawal, now reportedly on the move to reinforce Taliban forces. In a defiant official statement, the Taliban claimed responsibility for striking 'several points serving as centres and hideouts for malicious elements and their supporters' across the border in Pakistan. The group's use of the term 'hypothetical line' referred to the long-disputed frontier, dismissing Pakistan's territorial claims. The situation remains volatile, with both sides bracing for further escalation in a dangerous clash of wills that threatens to destabilise the region. The terror group has historically maintained strong relations with Pakistan and analysts believe that without the country's support, the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan would have been unlikely. But the relationship between the two neighbours has deteriorated over the past three years, with numerous cross-border clashes erupting. A black project manager at Heathrow attempted to sue the airport for more than 1million for discrimination after she was 'strip searched' when she set off a scanner. Veleta Brown said she felt she had been 'violated' when security officer Sorien Monfries asked her to step to the side to carry out a 'private search'. The project manager told an employment tribunal she was 'treated as a criminal' and 'marched' out of the room by two security guards. She lodged a grievance against the London airport and claimed the search amounted to racial discrimination and harassment. But an employment judge has now dismissed her claims, ruling the search was 'not related' to her race. The tribunal heard how Miss Brown, who describes herself as Black Caribbean, started working as a Delivery Project Manager at Heathrow Airport in June 2022. Miss Brown was due to meet a contractor in the secure airside area of the airport which meant she was required to pass through security. In evidence, she accepted these checks were 'important' and the 'consequences of getting it wrong can be catastrophic'. Veleta Brown, pictured, said she felt she had been 'violated' when security officer Sorien Monfries asked her to step to the side to carry out a 'private search' The security process involves an individual passing through the archway scanner which has two functions - a metal detector and a body scanner. If the body scanner identifies a 'zone of concern' then the person is asked to step to one side and consent to a search. This involved being patted down over their clothing and scanned with a hand-held metal detector. However, if the security officer carrying out the search, is unable to satisfy themselves that there is no security concern, then a private search is the 'next step'. Miss Brown told the tribunal that this is something that is not usually carried out - but this was disputed by the airport who said it is 'required when a security officer cannot satisfy themselves' that the 'area of concern has been resolved'. On October 22, 2022, she walked through the scanner, showed her ID, and was then asked to step to the side for a body scan by Ms Monfries as the archway alarm was activated. Employment Judge Anna Poynton said: '[Miss Brown] accepted when cross-examined that the archway cannot select on the grounds of race.' The manager said she was 'patted down' three times over clothing by Ms Monfries which she found to be 'excessive'. According to her evidence, she asked the security officer 'is there a problem' to which Ms Monfries responded 'I am uncomfortable'. Miss Brown alleged that the officer 'repeatedly patted around the bra area' before turning to a colleague and stating she wanted to do a private search. But she replied with: 'I'm just not comfortable'. Following this, Miss Brown claimed she was 'marched with one security guard in front of her and one behind her' into a side room and alleged that one of the guards stood in front of the door to prevent her from leaving the room. However, this was disputed by the airport who said this was in fact done to stop someone from entering the room. The tribunal said: 'We accept Ms Monfries' evidence that following the private search, she was satisfied that there were no security concerns and that the [project manager] could proceed airside.' Miss Brown lodged a grievance against the London airport and claimed the search amounted to racial discrimination and harassment Miss Brown claimed she had been 'treated as a criminal' and felt 'embarrassed, humiliated, degraded and violated' after the search. She then refused to sign the consent form afterwards and said had she known this was voluntary - she would have declined. It was heard that it would not have been possible to proceed airside without carrying out the check. Miss Brown complained to her line manager about the search before lodging an official grievance, referring to how she did not know any other employees that had been 'strip searched'. Her grievance was partially upheld due to a flaw in how it was investigated, but Miss Brown was told that there was 'no evidence to suggest that the incident raised in October 2022 was an act of direct discrimination'. Appealing the decision, Miss Brown said: 'It's not the process, it's the way it executed which is my problem, compared to when I looked to the left and the Asian girl came through and she had a quick pat down and was gone but with me, I was scrutinised and embarrassed in front of people and couldn't even give me a reason.' She was still not happy with the outcome of her appeal and consequently resigned with immediate effect on June 7 last year. She then took the airport to an employment tribunal, claiming the only reason she was searched was 'because of her race' and initially tried to claim 1,011,150 in compensation. However, her claims of racial discrimination and harassment were thrown out by the panel. 'We have concluded that the archway activated which resulted in [Miss Brown] being asked to step aside for a search to be carried out,' Employment Judge Anna Poynton said. 'The archway is triggered by the presence of metal. 'We have concluded that this is not related to [her] race.' The panel ruled that there had been 'considerable shortcomings' in the airport's handling of Miss Brown's complaint, but said none of these related to her race. All claims made by Miss Brown were dismissed. Ukraine today claimed the historic downing by a missile-firing sea drone of a 12million Russian Mi-8 military helicopter off the coast of occupied Crimea. The strike with a Magura V5 was announced by Kyiv's military intelligence and shown on new footage. Footage showed the Mi-8 chopper desperately shooting out flares as the missile, an R-73 'Sea Dragon', chased it down. After being hit by the missile, the Mi-8 can be seen crashing into the sea. 'On December 31, 2024, soldiers of the GUR special unit Group 13 of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine for the first time in history hit an air target using a Magura V5 sea drone equipped with missile weapons,' the ministry said in a statement. 'During a battle in the Black Sea near Cape Tarkhankut of temporarily occupied Crimea, a Russian Mi-8 helicopter was destroyed by the use of R-73 'Sea Dragon' missiles. 'Another similar enemy helicopter was hit by fire and was able to reach the base airfield.' The R-73 is a short-range, infrared-guided air-to-air missile which Ukraine has adapted for use on marine drones. Ukraine today claimed the historic downing by a missile-firing sea drone of a 12million Russian Mi-8 military helicopter The Mi-8 chopper (pictured) is one of Putin's flagship helicopters Footage showed the Mi-8 chopper desperately shooting out flares as the missile, an R-73 'Sea Dragon', chased it down Russia did not immediately confirm the loss of a military helicopter. But, Mikhail Razvozhaev, the Russian-governor of Sevastopol in Crimea said on Telegram that two unmanned drone vessels were destroyed near the coast overnight. Magura V5 drones are remotely controlled by an operator, and are usually packed with up to 200kg (440lbs) of high explosives. They are just 5.5m (18ft) long, making them incredible hard to shoot down. They have a typical operating range of up to 400km (248miles), but can be used as far as 800km, and can be used for up to 60 hours. Magura V5s typically travel at 41kmph (25mph), and have a top speed of 78kmph), and cost around $273,000 (218,0000) to build. Russia's Defense Ministry reported that air defense systems shot down 17 drones over Crimea during the night. It also launched an aerial attack on Ukraine on Tuesday, striking the capital and other regions with multiple missiles and drones. Ukrainian Marine Corps soldiers transfer personnel to British Mastiff infantry fighting vehicle on December 28, 2024 in Kurakhove frontline, Ukraine Around half of Ukraine's energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Magura V5 drones are remotely controlled by an operator, and are usually packed with up to 200kg (440lbs) of high explosives Magura V5s are just 5.5m (18ft) long, making them incredible hard to shoot down Magura V5s typically travel at 41kmph (25mph), and have a top speed of 78kmph), and cost around $273,000 (218,0000) to build They have a typical operating range of up to 400km (248miles), but can be used as far as 800km, and can be used for up to 60 hours Ukraine's air force reported a ballistic missile threat at 3:00 a.m. (0100 GMT), with at least two explosions heard in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was issued at 8:00 a.m. followed by at least one explosion in the city. Missile debris fell in the Darnytskyi district of the capital with no reports of casualties or damage, the local administration said. Authorities in the northeastern Sumy region reported strikes near the city of Shostka, where the mayor, Mykola Noha, said 12 residential buildings had been damaged as well as two educational facilities. He said some 'social infrastructure objects' were destroyed, without providing detail. The air force also reported missiles and drones targeting several other regions of Ukraine. In Moscow, the Russian Defense Ministry said that its forces successfully struck a Ukrainian air base and a gunpowder factory. Around half of Ukraine's energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Kyiv's Western allies have provided air defense systems to help Ukraine protect critical infrastructure, but Russia has sought to overwhelm its air defenses with combined strikes involving large numbers of missiles and drones. Women are at risk of missing out on opportunities at work because they are less likely to go into the office than men, the boss of the world's biggest building society has said. Last year Nationwide told all 13,000 of its non-branch staff they would no longer be able to work from home full-time. During the pandemic staff were told they would not be forced to come back in by previous chief executive Joe Garner. However his successor Debbie Crosbie then axed the policy last December, saying that staff having a physical presence in the workplace was 'important for career growth'. Staff were told they have to come into the office at least two days a week or be at risk of breaching their contract. One year on, Ms Crosbie said she has observed a noticeable difference in office attendance. Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Debbie Crosbie said that at Nationwide men are 'more likely to come into the office than women'. She said: 'Being seen and them seeing other leaders is a really important part of their development. Debbie Crosbie, CEO of Nationwide Building Society has warned women working from home could miss out on opportunities at work Nationwide during the coronavirus pandemic had told staff they did not have to go into office Debbie Crosbie, CEO of Nationwide leaves Downing Street in London after a meeting with Rishi Sunak in February 2024 'We need to be careful that we don't inadvertently prevent women from taking some of the opportunities by not being in the office. 'I benefited enormously from watching some really excellent leaders and how they navigated challenging problems.' Ms Crosbie said she learned from the experience of working with Lynne Peacock, female CEO of Clydesdale Bank in the early years of her career. Ms Crosbie said there has been 'great progress' made with women in leadership roles, but said not enough progress had been made on the amount of CEOs and executives who are female. She also stressed the importance of supporting female leaders with flexible childcare options. She added: 'I think it is really challenging for a lot of women who are at that period in their life where they are about to get into that next level position and then they have to make choices about having children. 'How we support women to work flexibly and provide them with childcare options is a key driver of getting more females into the top CEO and executive positions.' Research by Durham University and the University of Sheffield found women are more likely to have blurred boundaries between work and family life than men. It found that men were less likely to interrupt their work schedules for the needs of their family than women. Debbie Crosbie (left) at the Mansion House dinner in London alongside Chancellor Rachel Reeves Ms Crosbie said women at Nationwide are less likely to go into the office than men In 2022 another female boss, Aviva chief executive Amanda Blanc, said she feared that if women continue to stay at home it would mean they are 'not around when some of the conversations are being had'. Ms Blanc said she wanted to 'create the right environment for women to flourish' in the sector. She added that it was complex for the insurance giant's 20,000 employees to come back into the office after the pandemic 'because they've got to plan their lives around how they're going to work, so the changing back and forth makes it difficult'. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'If what you see is that all the men come back into the office and the women don't, then obviously the women are not around when some of the conversations are being had and they could miss out on opportunities and so that's what I'm calling out, really, that I don't want to happen. Research by recruitment giant Reed shows bosses are more likely to give pay rises and promotions to employees who go into the office instead of working from home Nearly seven in ten companies said employees in office will go further and faster than colleagues who insist on staying at home. Out of the 251 businesses surveyed, 68 per cent said they would reward those who went to the office. A British holidaymaker drowned during a diving trip off Mauritius on Christmas Eve, local media has reported. The 77-year-old man lost his life near a peninsula known as 'Devil's Point' on the island's east coast. The man, who has not been named, was reportedly taking part in a catamaran diving tour with other holidaymakers on December 24. He and several other tourists entered the water to snorkel at around 11.45am, according to reports, with all the members of the tour except him returning to the boat at around 12.10pm. The group was preparing to leave the area when the boat's skipper and crew noticed the man was missing. They alerted the police and coastguard who immediately launched a search operation. After more than an hour of scouring the area, the authorities located the man's body around 50 meters from the boat. The man was pulled out of the water and first aid was administered, but he could not be saved. The 77-year-old man lost his life near a peninsula known as 'Devil's Point' on the island's east coast Your browser does not support iframes. He was declared dead at the scene and his body was taken to a nearby hospital morgue, where it has undergone an autopsy to confirm his cause of death. The police medical examiner determined he had drowned and his body was then returned to his family to be repatriated, Mauritian media reports. It is the latest in a series of tragedies involving British tourists in the popular holiday destination this year. In April, a 55-year-old Briton drowned during his first swim in the sea after arriving on the island. The man, who was reportedly staying in the Henessy Park Hotel in Ebene on the west coast, went to the nearby Flic en Flac lagoon for a dip and got into difficulty in the water, local media reported at the time. The man was reportedly pulled out of the water by a French national on a boat, but efforts to revive him failed and he was taken to a local hospital, where he was declared dead. The sea reportedly was rough and there were heavy swells when the man drowned, with at least three others also losing their lives that day. A month earlier, a British father tragically lost his life while trying to save his 15-year-old son during a huge storm. The 49-year-old man had entered the water to help his teenage son, who was swept out to sea by large waves in the Pomponette lagoon on the south coast of the island, according to local media reports. But during the rescue the man got into difficulty himself and by the time lifeguards reached the 15-year-old boy shortly after 10.15am on March 23, his father had disappeared beneath the waves. While his son was rescued successfully, the search for the man lasted for several days and was eventually abandoned. The man, his partner and his son had arrived on Mauritius on Friday, March 22, and were due to leave about a week later, just before Easter Sunday, on March 30. Good Morning Britain viewers have all been left saying the same thing about a 103-year-old World War Two veteran who features on the New Years Honours list. Colin Bell, a Second World War mosquito pilot, who will receive British Empire medal this year for his charitable endeavours, is the oldest to receive an honour this year. The RAF Veteran, previously won the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) - a gallantry award - for his work with the 608 Squadron where he survived 50 raids over Germany. 'I flew 50 times over Germany and they didn't like me very much,' he told Good Morning Britain. During his interview, the former Pathfinder pilot cheeky and light-heartened nature shone through, with the 103-year-old quipping that the award was 'very good for the family CV'. When asked by presenters Richard Madeley and Charlotte Hawkins how he has managed to retain his youthful appearance he said it was 'a matter of luck'. Explaining how he is often asked about his regime, he quipped: 'I have always said its a matter of exercise, alcohol and the love of good women - with the odd bad one thrown in.' However it wasn't only the broadcasters who were astonished by his young looks, as viewers were in awe of veteran with several assuming several different watchers assuming he was in his 60s, 80s and 50s based off appearance alone. Colin Bell, a former flight lieutenant, is the oldest person on the New Years Honours list (pictured) The 103-year-old is being honoured with the British Empire Medal for his charitable efforts The RAF Veteran (pictured), previously won the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) - a gallantry award - for his work with the 608 Squadron where he survived 50 raids over Germany Singing one former flight Lt. praises one wrote : 'He's 103? He looks amazing,' while another astonished viewer said: 'Bloody Nora , he looks AMAZING for 103 year old!' '103? Incredible. I could have listened to him all day,' a third wrote, while another chimed in: 'He doesn't look a day over 75! What a gent.' 'Now he is an example of someone who so richly deserves a BEM. How good does he look for 103,' one beamed. When queried how he felt on his most recent accomplishment, Mr Bell said he has been left astonished. 'I'm quite amazed when I was first notified by the cabinet office a fortnight ago I was quite bowled over I don't see myself in that category at all.' he added. Mr Bell also said it wasn't a challenge to keep the award under raps having worked both in the civil service and RAF. 'I am their representation in a vague way all those people who support those worthwhile charities,' he said: 'It just shows how long you have to live to get an honour.' However in a recent interview with Good Morning Britain, the 103-year-old shocked the show's presenters with his youthful looks 'I flew 50 times over Germany and they didn't like me very much,' he told Good Morning Britain (pictured: Colin Bell in his youth) Viewers were also blown away by his youthful appearance, singing the veteran's praises following the interview On September 14, 2023, the former Lieutenant became the 'oldest ever participant in an abseil', after plunging 280ft down the side of the Royal London Hospital. The charitable veteran took on the goliath task in a bid to raise much-needed cash for the London Air Ambulance Charity. Charity staff, volunteers, supporters as well as a Guinness World Record judicator watched Mr Bell make his way from the helipad down the side of the hospital, raising 7,854. The thrill-seeking challenge was the third carried out by Colin that year alone. He had previously raised funds for the ambulance charity as well as the RAF Benevolent Fund and the RCN Foundation. At the time, Colin said: 'I may be 102 years old, but I still want to do my bit to raise much-needed funding for three amazing charities.' Chief Executive of London's Air Ambulance Charity, Jonathan Jenkins, said: 'It is a tremendous feat to complete our helipad abseil, many congratulations to Colin. 'The money Colin and the other fundraisers will raise in the abseil will play a vital role in ensuring that London's Air Ambulance's advanced trauma team can continue to save lives in London. Mr Bell became the 'oldest ever participant in an abseil' in 2023, after plunging 280ft down the side of the Royal London Hospital, raising 7,854 in the process (pictured with Ross Kemp) He also previously warned the government to ensure Britain had 'adequate defence' earlier this year amid spending cuts 'We are so thankful for their commitment and support.' Earlier this year, the veteran gave a stark warning to the government, urging them to ensure Britain had 'adequate defence' adding that he hoped lessons were 'being learnt'. 'Unfortunately this is something I think your everyday Briton has rather lost sight of,' he told the Express. 'I remember the warnings given by Sir Winston Churchill that people were disregarding. 'Believe it or not until 1938 the British government were trying to persuade other people in Europe to disarm, while Germany was arming up to the teeth. How stupid can you get?' Science lessons could be made less 'Western' under the Government's overhaul of the school curriculum. An independent review of what is taught in schools was launched by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson shortly after Labour's general election victory in July. It is seeking to 'refresh' what pupils learn after Ms Phillipson complained the current curriculum is 'outdated'. The terms of reference for the overhaul says it must reflect 'the issues and diversities of our society', with a committee currently considering proposals. In response to the Department for Education's call for evidence, top science bodies stressed the importance of teaching 'non-Western' contributions to science. The Royal Society of Biology, Royal Society of Chemistry, and Institute of Physics also said pupils should learn why some cultures were 'less able to claim credit and ownership for ideas'. Together with the Association for Science Education, they convened a group to make recommendations that have now been submitted to Labour's review. But their evidence has been branded 'a ludicrous proposal from the wokerati', while Labour has been accused of 'education vandalism' with their curriculum overhaul. An independent review of what is taught in schools was launched by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson shortly after Labour's general election victory in July The review is seeking to 'refresh' what pupils learn after Ms Phillipson complained the current curriculum is 'outdated' Highlighting the work of the Primary Curriculum Advisory Group, the Royal Society of Biology's own submission stated: 'It is essential that all children feel included in the sciences by valuing their experiences and through the thoughtful use of contexts, imagery and narratives. 'This is partly achieved by ensuring that they build a repertoire of shared experiences; partly through techniques within the classroom; and partly through the narratives attached to the sciences. 'Specifically, the curriculum should offer children a chance to learn about historic Western and non-Western contributions to the sciences, as well as cutting-edge contemporary research from diverse teams of scientists. 'Teachers should be encouraged to frame historic examples of scientific discoveries in the context that some individuals, groups, cultures and nations were disadvantaged in their ability to participate in or to resource research and less able to claim credit and ownership for ideas that had been developed by them.' The Royal Society of Biology also said it had sought expertise on 'decolonising the curriculum' and for a 'no more heroes' approach to teaching science in schools. This would mean 'avoiding prescriptive lists of historic figures in biology' and instead 'exploring opportunities for local, recogniseable, diverse historic and contemporary figures through which discovery and exploration of biological concepts can be explored'. It added that students should be encouraged to 'see a wide range of biologists in action'. The Institute for Physics suggested that 'ideas should be framed in the context of the times in which discoveries were made and accredited within Western science'. Its submission to the curriculum review added: 'They can explain how many of those discoveries drew on earlier work in other parts of the world. 'And how, during the period of growth of Western science, different groups, cultures and nations were more or less able to participate in research, resource scientific activity, or claim credit and ownership for ideas.' The Royal Statistical Society called for the greater use of 'real-world data' - such as on gender inequalities or migration - in the teaching of maths and statistics. 'The curriculum should be focused on solving problems using data rather than answering questions about data,' its submission added. Teaching unions are also among groups to have submitted evidence to the curriculum review. The Association of School and College Leaders said the current curriculum 'prioritises a somewhat monocultural worldview, especially with regards to literature and history'. Ms Phillipson has hailed the review as an 'important step in this Government's mission to break down barriers to opportunity, deliver better life chances and enable more young people to get on'. The review is being chaired by Professor Becky Francis, who has spearheaded research into educational inequalities. Tory MP Laura Trott, the shadow education secretary, said: 'Labour's curriculum changes will drive down educational standards. 'Instead of continuing with a rich, knowledge-based curriculum which has led to our children being the best readers and mathematicians in the Western world, they are tearing it all up. 'Pure education vandalism once again.' Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice hit out at 'a ludicrous proposal from the wokerati'. He added: 'We need more historic British heroes and achievements to be taught to our children, not less.' A father and his teen son were tragically killed just before Christmas in a fireball crash after the Tesla they were driving in collided with a tree and burst into flames. Magarret Brion Smith, 35, and his son Karter, 14, of Thomas County, Georgia were traveling north on the Georgia Highway 35 on December 23 when Magarret lost control of the vehicle. According to the Georgia State Patrol, Magarret left the right side of the road and smashed into a pecan tree. The Tesla became engulfed in flames and the pair were pronounced dead at the scene. According to the Allen Williams mortuary website, a fundraiser has been set up in honour of teenager Karter. 'Dear Friends and Family, As we prepare to celebrate the beautiful life of Karter Smith, we are reaching out to those whose lives he touched', the post reads. 'Karters memory brings us together in love, and we want to honor him with a service that reflects the joy and light he brought into our lives. In lieu of flowers, we welcome contributions from those who feel led to support the celebration of his life. Your generosity, given from the heart, will help us create a service that truly honors Karters legacy.' So far, the fundraiser has raised $1,095 of the $5,000 target. Pictured: Karter Brion Smith, 14. The teen was killed on December 23 alongside his father Magarret, 35, after the the Tesla they were driving in crashed into a tree and burst into flames It is unclear whether the vehicle was on autopilot, but the tragic crash raises questions about the safety of electric vehicles and their automotive technology Currently, the Georgia State Patrol is conducting an investigation to uncover the exact cause of this tragic incident. It is unclear whether the vehicle was on autopilot, but the tragic crash raises questions about the safety of electric vehicles and their automotive technology. Tesla has made headlines in the past for its electric vehicles erupting into flames that take thousands of gallons of water to put out due to the car's battery . An investigation has claimed Hans von Ohain, 33, who was killed in a fiery Tesla wreck in Colorado in 2022 may have become the first person to die in a crash caused by the company's self-driving tech. The Tesla employee and Elon Muck superfan died after his Tesla Model 3 swerved violently off a winding country road, ploughing into a tree and killing the young father in a fireball captured in horror police surveillance footage. Although Ohain had been drinking before the fatal crash, detectives expanded their investigation into the death after it became apparent it was no ordinary case of drunk driving. 'Regardless of how drunk Hans was, Musk has claimed that this car can drive itself and is essentially better than a human,' von Ohain's widow Nora Bass told the Washington Post. 'We were sold a false sense of security.' Also, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration recently said it had begun reviewing a fiery Tesla Cybertruck Crash that left tree local college students dead in Piedmont last month. It comes as the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration recently said it had begun reviewing a fiery Tesla Cybertruck Crash that left tree local college students dead in Piedmont last month. Pictured: A Tesla Cybertruck shown parked on a street in the city of Los Angeles An investigation has claimed Hans von Ohain (pictured) who was killed in a fiery Tesla wreck in Colorado in 2022 may have become the first person to die in a crash caused by the company's self-driving tech Soren Dixon, Jack Nelson, and Krysta Tsukahara, all 19, died in the crash that occurred at around 3am on November 27. Jordan Miller, 20, a business student at the University of Wisconsin was pulled alive from the SUV and is currently in a medically induced coma in the intensive care unit. Just before firefighters unleashed extinguishers on the burning vehicle, Miller was retrieved from the wreck, which is now at the center of a police probe. The Tesla Cybertruck, meanwhile, has faced a stunning six recalls over the course of this year - most recently last month due to a fault in an electric inverter that can cause the drive wheels to lose power. Other callbacks covered failures with the car's rearview camera technology, which didn't activate immediately upon shifting into reverse. Another recall revolved around an incorrect font size on the vehicle's instrument panel warning lights. Yet another involved a fix to the electric vehicle's gas pedals after they were found prone to getting stuck in the interior trim. A Virginia hospital has closed its neonatal intensive care unit after seven premature babies suffered mysterious injuries by an unknown abuser who remains on the loose. A couple has spoken out after an unidentified staff member at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond fractured their newborn's leg during his time at the NICU, as discovered by the state's child services. Authorities opened a probe into the inexplicable fractures after four babies were injured in the summer of 2023 and three more were hurt in November and December of this year, as reported by WTVR. Dominique and Tori Hackey were one of the parents affected after they welcomed their twin boys, Noah and Micah, at the hospital in August 2023. Noah was doing well until Dominique noticed his left leg was not moving. 'It was kind of discolored, I told the doctor on staff, got some x-rays, and we determined he had a fracture to his leg, so we are going to splint it for the next two weeks, and then she was like do you want to hold him?' Dominique told WTVR. The couple said they did not want to hold Noah for fears the hospital would blame them for the injury. 'In my mind Im like, I dont want them to turn it around on us and say we broke his leg or anything like that so I was like no, we dont want to hold him, we are just going to process this,' Dominique added. Noah Hackey was one of seven babies who suffered inexplicable injuries at Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia Social services determined an unknown employee at the hospital caused Noah's fracture Henrico hospital has closed its neonatal intensive care unit after seven premature babies suffered mysterious injuries by an abuser on the loose An X-ray showed that Noah's tibia had been fractured, and, according to Dominique, the hospital suggested the injury was accidental. 'Thats what they told us, that it could have been done because an injection was given and maybe they did it too hard and it caused the fracture,' Dominique said. Dominique said it concerned him so he contacted child services. In September he received a review of their investigation, which found there was level 1 physical abuse of Noah - the worst level in Virginia. The letter from child services stated that 'following a through CPS investigation this agency has determined the disposition of this report to be founded level 1 for physical abuse of Noah by an employee by the Henrico Doctors Hospital NICU.' In October, police informed the Hackeys that other babies had also been mysteriously injured at the Richmond hospital. However, authorities have not been able to figure out who is causing the injuries. The hospital told the Hickeys they implemented preventative measures like cameras in the NICU and more training. But then the hospital shut down its NICU unit in October after the measures failed to prevent three more babies being injured in November and December. Noah's father Dominique Hackey contacted child services, who found Noah had suffered level 1 physical abuse Noah has fully recovered. He is pictured with his mom Tori 'Thats one of my biggest regrets, not reaching out sooner and saying something because it could have prevented somebody elses child from getting hurt,' Dominique said. The Hackeys have asked that anyone who suffered a similar experience at the hospital reach out to them. The hospital told WTVR that they are reviewing video footage and provided it to police for their investigation. The Henrico Commonwealths Attorneys Office and Henrico police are reportedly involved in the hunt for the mysterious abuser. Henrico police told DailyMail.com no charges in connection with these injuries have been filed against anyone. A statement on the hospital's website said: 'Out of an abundance of caution, we are not admitting any additional babies into our NICU at this time. 'While fractures occasionally happen with pre-term babies since they lack full fetal bone development, we are actively working to determine how these fractures occurred.' Noah's parents have asked that other potential victims from the hospital's NICU contact them Maria Reppas, who serves as the communications director for the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), told DailyMail.com the institution is working with the hospital on the investigation. She said: 'The health and safety of those receiving care in this NICU has and will continue to be our top priority. 'VDH's Office of Licensure and Certification, in partnership with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), has taken immediate action to identify potential concerns and are monitoring specific corrective actions. 'We are working closely with other state and local partners, including the Henrico Police Department and Virginia State Police.' A community's attempt to save a pub used by Dambusters legend Barnes Wallis when he trialled his 'bouncing bomb' has been boosted by German donors. World War II hero, Wallis, is said to have drank and lodged at the Elm Tree Inn, nearby Langton Herring, nearby to where the wartime inventor conduct his secret tests. After 300 years of trading, the tavern which had also been visited by Winston Churchill closed in 2023 - but three months ago the community launched an initiative to save it. To bring back the watering hole, the Friends of the Elm need to raise 650,000, to buy and run the pub, with half already been raised through a share issue, where investors can buy 1 shares. Among those who have put their money where their mouth is in hopes to save the pub is a German couple from near Dusseldorf who visited Langton Herring last year. It is believed they purchased a minimum of 200 shares. Despite their valiant fundraising efforts, locals still have a remaining 300,000 to source to save the tavern for the village which has lost its post office, shop and bus service in recent years. Although the task ahead is no easy feat, campaigners are confident they will be able to gather the remaining few hundred thousand to buy and run the pub for generations to come. A community's attempt to save a pub used by Dambusters legend Barnes Wallis when he trialled his 'bouncing bomb' has been boosted by German donors World War II hero, Wallis (pictured), is said to have drank and lodged at the Elm Tree Inn, nearby Langton Herring, nearby to where the wartime inventor conduct his secret tests Locals have so far raised over half of the 650,000 total needed to save the pub and are confident they will reach their target Nick Carroll, chairman of the Friends of the Elm Tree, said: 'We recently received our approval from the Financial Conduct Authority which meant we could launch our share issue in the village hall. 'It was very successful and was standing room only. 'We have received support from all over including France and Germany. My son's girlfriend is German and her parents visited the pub last year and they liked it very much and have bought shares. 'The shares are 1 each and the minimum spend is 200 and the maximum is 65,000. 'We had a family who bought 1,000 of shares and divided them between their five children. We also had someone buy 20,000 of shares which is the largest amount. 'You can only trade within the pub so if you wanted to sell them they would be bought by someone in the pub. 'By about the third year of trading we hope to be able to pay back about 3 per cent interest. We expect people to hold on to them indefinitely and pass them down through the family through wills and the like. 'We are about half way there and we have the raise the rest by the end of March which we hope to do by crowdfunding. After 300 years of trading, the tavern which had also been visited by Winston Churchill closed in 2023 - but three months ago the community launched an initiative to save it Langton Herring is one of just 13 'doubly thankful villages in England and Wales in which no soldier from the village died in either world war There is also a small plague saying saying 'We shall never surrender' in reference to Winston Churchill and a horse chestnut tree planted in his honour in the village churchyard 'There are very few grants that we can apply for because they require a huge amount of work in terms of form filling. We are a small village with a steering committee of seven volunteers and we don't have the time for that amount of paperwork.' Wallis visited the area near Langton Herring which is one of just 13 'doubly thankful villages in England and Wales in which no soldier from the village died in either world war, at the end of 1942. That year, the British engineer began conducting plans for a bomb that could skip across water in a bid to attack three dams in Germany's Ruhr valley, as Brits believed it would greatly disrupt German war production. He used the five-mile long lagoon called The Fleet, that sits behind Chesil Beach, to conduct his top secret tests. A modified Wellington bomber repeatedly flew in low over the body of water before releasing the bouncing bomb which skipped across the surface. The experiments were so secret that even the men at a naval gun emplacement nearby were not aware of it and started shooting at the aircraft fearing it was an enemy attack. The Dambusters raid, also known as Operation Chastise, saw 53 of the 133 aircrew killed, while 1,300 people on the ground died as a result of the flooding. While its was a morale boost for the people of Britain, its affect on German industrial impact was limited, according to the Imperial War Museum. Wallis conducted plans for a bomb that could skip across water in a bid to attack three dams in Germany's Ruhr valley, as Brits believed it would greatly disrupt German war production The Dambusters raid, also known as Operation Chastise, saw 53 of the 133 aircrew killed, while 1,300 people on the ground died as a result of the flooding During the Cold War the famed tavern was also rumoured to have been a secret rendezvous point for Russian spies In the village of Leighton there is a small plague saying saying 'We shall never surrender' in reference to Winston Churchill and a horse chestnut tree planted in his honour in the village churchyard. During the Cold War the famed tavern was also rumoured to have been a secret rendezvous point for Russian spies. Harry Houghton and his girlfriend Ethel Gee worked for the Admiralty Underwater Weapons Establishment on nearby Portland and would wait for calls from their KGB controller at the pub. In more recent years the Elm Tree Inn was turned into a high-end gastro pub and achieved the prestigious AA Two Rosette award. But in November 2023 its owners, the Electric Pub Company, announced it was closing due to the 'challenging operating environment' and 'declining trade and profitability'. Anne Kerins, 68, has lived in the village for 25 years and is one of the eight-person committee organising the plans. She said: 'The pub has been here since the 1700s and was just the absolute centre piece of the community. 'The residents are really struggling without it as everywhere else you have to drive to and there is no bus service. Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks during a presidential debate hosted by CNN with President Joe Biden, June 27, 2024, in Atlanta. Gerald Herbert/AP A shocking story about a Texas congresswoman came out the other week. A local reporter got a tip that, after quietly missing months of votes on Capitol Hill, Republican U.S. Rep. Kay Granger had moved into Traditions Senior Living, an assisted-living facility in Dallas. When the reporter went to the facility to ask how Granger planned to vote on the year-end spending bill in Congress, the receptionist there was clearly confused, responding, You know youre in an Alzheimers assisted-living facility, right? Grangers son later confirmed to The Dallas Morning News that she had been struggling with dementia issues. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The congresswoman, 81, was planning to retire from Congress at the end of this year, but for all intents and purposes, she was already out of office. The problem is that nobody bothered to tell her constituents. I said the story was shocking, but its not really surprising when you look at where shes been working on Capitol Hill, the only workplace in America where seniority is rewarded more than showing up and staff are in place to assist, shield and, occasionally, deny the obvious. The same week Granger was found, Georgia U.S. Rep. David Scott, 79, had a run-in with a photographer from Politico who was snapping his photo in front of the Capitol as he was being helped from a car into a wheelchair to go inside. Who gave you the right to take my picture? the Atlanta Democrat yelled at the photographer before adding an expletive, a Punchbowl News reporter posted on X. As concerns about his health were already swirling, Scott missed two weeks of congressional votes just before that. His office made no mention of the missed votes until The Atlanta Journal-Constitutions Tia Mitchell called and learned the congressman had been receiving treatment for an ailing back. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its important to say here that theres nothing disqualifying about simply being old or infirm. With age comes tremendous knowledge and wisdom, two disappearing assets in Washington. And as for the wheelchair, I worked for five years for U.S. Sen. Max Cleland, a triple amputee who wheeled through the Capitol complex faster than most of his staff could walk to keep up with him. Voters not only looked past Clelands disabilities, many even connected with them. The problem for elected officials comes with trying to hide those health struggles, especially when theyre affecting an officials ability to do their job. President Joe Bidens fade from the national stage is only made worse by the overriding sense that, like Granger, he and his team never leveled with the American people about how quickly he declined after he was elected in 2020. Not until his debate against Donald Trump in Atlanta did it become clear that Biden was not all right and that dozens, maybe hundreds, of family, staff and fellow Democrats must have known that all along. I think a lot about how Biden could have possibly decided that yes, he would run again in 2024 and that his entire staff would have gone along with the choice. But then I remember that Biden and his closest advisers came out of a Senate where U.S. Sen. Strom Thurmond, a Republican from South Carolina, retired at the age of 99, a full 20 years older than Biden when he was mulling his reelection bid. Watching Thurmond be gingerly guided through the Senate corridors by his staff on the way to a vote was like watching a team of museum curators move a Faberge egg. One former Senate aide told The New Yorker that for the last 10 years of his life, Strom Thurmond didnt know if he was on foot or on horseback. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As for how he would vote, Thurmonds chief of staff at the time was so well liked and knowledgeable, there seemed to be a gentlemans agreement among his colleagues, which would have included Biden, to leave the decisions to the chief and look away the rest of the time. But in the age of social media and camera phones, the days of looking the other way are over. And there is a much better way to age or deal with illness and disability in office. Pennsylvania Democrat John Fetterman had a serious stroke on his way to a campaign event before he was elected to the U.S. Senate. Fetterman was hospitalized at the time and again after he was elected, the second time for depression that often follows a stroke. The difference between Fetterman and Biden or Granger is that we know all about it. Still struggling with cognitive processing issues, the senator tells reporters ahead of interviews that hell be using an iPads voice-to-text function so that he can fully understand their questions. Thats the kind of transparency voters expect now related to a leaders health and abilities. And no matter what kind of social-media environment were in, its the kind of transparency voters deserve. Time will tell if President-elect Trump is able to keep the pace that he did on the campaign trail. At 78, hes now older than Biden was when he was elected in 2020. And Trump has been opaque about the reality of his own health and vigor, right down to his obvious spray tan. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An alleged knifeman has appeared in court after two women died following a suspected stabbing in Milton Keynes on Christmas Day. Jazwell Brown appeared at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday after police confirmed the victims were Joanne Pearson, 38, and Teohna Grant, 24. He has also been charged with the attempted murders of Bradley Latter, 29, and of a teenage boy, and one count each of possession of a knife in a public place. He was also charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, a Staffordshire bull terrier. Brown, of Santa Cruz Avenue, Bletchley, appeared in court via video-link from HMP Bullingdon and spoke only to confirm his identity. Brown, of Santa Cruz Avenue, Bletchley, appeared in court via video-link from HMP Bullingdon and spoke only to confirm his identity Jazwell Brown, of Santa Cruz Avenue, Bletchley, appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court today on two counts of murder He will next appear at the same court on March 21, while a provisional trial date was set for June 17. It comes after officers were called to an address in Santa Cruz Avenue at about 6.30pm on Wednesday last week. The two women died at the scene, while Mr Latter and the teenage boy were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Police previously said the dog that was injured in the incident had died, but they have since been informed it survived. Teohna Grant, 24, was attacked in the flat where she lived just as millions were sitting down to watch Wallace and Gromit on Christmas Day evening Joanne Pearson, 38, (pictured) was also killed in the attack on Christmas Day in Milton Keynes During the incident on Christmas Day, a Staffordshire bull terrier was also injured during the incident but survived, the court heard Thames Valley Police confirmed they are supporting the families of those involved. The man and teenage boy are both said to be recovering and in a stable condition. Following the incident, neighbours spoke of their shock. One neighbour told the Sun: 'It's mortifying. I heard all the ambulances last night but you don't expect anything like this to happen around here. And on Christmas day of all days.' Another told the newspaper that emergency services were working on one of the victims in the street, while others were covered with white tarp. Terrified passengers on an easyJet flight from Turkey to Gatwick had to endure an emergency landing after they claimed a teenage girl flew into a rage when she had a row with a ten-year-old over her cough. Travellers on board the jet which had to make an unscheduled stop in Italy were said to have been 'physically sick' and 'fell in the toilet' as the 16 year old allegedly threatened to stab the cabin crew. It meant the EasyJet plane that flew from Antalya to Gatwick on Friday night was unable to land in the British airport and had to touch down in Bari instead. Eyewitnesses claim the teenage girl used language like 'get out of my face' leaving others passengers crying and distressed, including the mother of the little girl she had apparently lost her temper at. Nadine, 39, from Reading, was onboard the aircraft with her daughter Jernai, 19, when the carnage ensued and the pair described it as a 'fight from hell' that ruined their Christmas. Speaking to the Sun, Nadine said: 'We went to Turkey for Christmas, where we had a really lovely holiday at a hotel called Aska Lara. 'We were all nice and relaxed, but then it turned to hell on the flight home. It's ruined my Christmas. 'So this 16-year-old was about four rows behind me and she was sitting next to a little girl who was about 10 started coughing and she told her to stop. Terrified Brits were forced to endure an emergency plane landing after a teenage girl got so riled up 'over a 10-year-old's coughing' that she 'threatened to stab cabin crew' The EasyJet plane was unable to land in the British airport and had to stop in Bari, Italy instead due to the chaos onboard 'The little girl went to the toilet but the older girl followed her to the toilet. 'The girl kept having outbursts saying 'get out of my face', and she wouldn't let her out. 'Then the mum went down and the teenage girl was shouting in her face. 'The mum and the little girl were crying so the crew walked the girl and her mum down to the to the front of the plane to get away from her.' Nadine added the teenage girl repeatedly 'ignored requests of aircraft staff to go back to her seat and instead shouted abuse'. The mum recalled: 'She just started shouting abuse at the crew members and then she stormed to the back of the plane. 'She was trying to open the door and she broke the handle. The crew members pulled her away and restrained her. 'She was surrounded by all the crew members but one tried to calm her down. Nadine said the 16-year-old 'started screaming on the plane and she threatened to stab a crew member' 'She started screaming on the plane and she threatened to stab a crew member. 'This was all happening in the middle of the plane as they were trying to get her away from the door. 'I was at the front and she came running down the plane and I watched her run down the plane.' A woman reportedly then 'fell into the toilet' as a result of the outburst after the teen went flying forward into the toilet door. Nadine said: 'She went flying forward into the toilet the door but someone was coming out of the toilet. 'She fell into the woman who fell into the toilet into the pilots door was flung open.' 'At one point she took off her shoes and threw them at passengers. Everyone was so nervous. 'People started getting upset and getting up. They eventually managed to get the girl to sit down. The plane was meant to land in London Gatwick (pictured) but instead had to land in Bari Airport in Italy 'But for safety reasons the pilot had to announce that we would make an emergency landing and lowered the plane. 'The girl was flying with her mum and her Nan.' Nadine also told the Sun she was angry at Easyjet for not apologising after everyone was ordered off the plane at Bari airport and shepherded into hotel rooms. She said: 'It was absolute hell. Easyjet did not care about us on the plane. They left us without any water. 'The pilot was tired, and he said he had to land for security reasons because a passenger breached security. 'We were asked to go into the airport, and when we landed, there were firemen, maintenance, and police. 'Police started gathering statements. The girl who caused the scene was arrested. 'You can imagine how upsetting it all was. It was just me and my daughter, I was crying.' Nadine and Jernai had been on holiday in Antalya but unfortunately the experience on the plane ruined the memory for them Nadine then went on to recount how she was physically sick in the hotel room She said: 'When we arrived at the hotel in Bari, we were horrified. 'When we ran the tap it was misty water, and we hadn't drank in hours. 'I went in and was sick on the floor. We had two single beds, the sheets were filthy. 'The room was freezing cold with only a little radiator which didn't even work. 'Don't get me started on the bathroom with all the mould on the floor. The door didn't even lock. There was a baby crying next door. 'The next morning I saw the hotel in the light - what a dump! There were broken windows and rubbish piled up.' 'Easyjet has not apologised. There's been no compensation. 'My daughter Jernai is 19, and she is scared to go away again. She has been traumatised by the experience. 'It ruined my Christmas, We got in at 12.50am and I collapsed into my own bed. 'I am ill because it was so cold in the room. I suffer from asthma and COPD and I can't go out and enjoy the rest of my Christmas. 'My family have all gone back to the Caribbean, and I couldn't see them because I was too ill. 'It was nothing but stress, I had a headache, I feel really relieved to be home. I've never been so happy to be home. 'I don't think I will go on a holiday for at least a year after this as it frightened me so much.' She claimed she had sent Easyjet an email but not yet had a response. Easyjet told The Sun: 'Flight EZY8556 from Antalya to London Gatwick on 27th December diverted to Bari. 'It was met by police due to a passenger behaving disruptively onboard. 'EasyJet's cabin crew are trained to assess and evaluate all situations and acted quickly and appropriately to ensure that the safety of the flight and other passengers was not compromised at any time. 'While such incidents are rare we take them very seriously and do not tolerate abusive or threatening behaviour onboard. 'As this led to the crew feeling unfit to operate, the flight was delayed overnight and scheduled to operate the following day. 'The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew is always easyJet's priority. 'While this was outside of our control, we are sorry for the inconvenience this will have caused. 'We did all we could to minimise the impact of the diversion, providing hotel accommodation and meals. 'We have advised customers we will reimburse any expenses incurred.' A shocking video shows the moment a zookeeper is fatally attacked and eaten alive by lions after going inside their cage to 'impress his girlfriend'. The guard, named as F. Iriskulov, 44, unknowingly caught his final moments on camera as he filmed himself entering the lions' cage before being mauled. The footage shows him unlocking a padlock to the enclosure where he works at a private zoo in Parkent, Uzbekistan at 5am on December 17 during his night shift. The three beasts appear passive at first, sitting calmly in the far corner of the enclosure. Suddenly, the beast springs up and the man steps back in evident surprise before the animals approach him slowly. He repeatedly calls the name of one of the lions: 'Simba,' before telling the animal: 'Simba, be quiet.' He seemingly recorded the video to send to his girlfriend, defiantly flipping the camera to show his face as he is surrounded by the lions. The keeper even pets one of the animals as it gets concerningly close to him, suggesting they are familiar with each other. But immediately after he touches the animal's mane, in an apparent sign of the horrors to come, the lion licks its lips and the man appears to momentarily retreat towards the metal gate. The three beasts appear passive at first, sitting calmly in the far corner of the enclosure The keeper pets one of the animals as it gets concerningly close to him during the video The 44-year-old seemingly recorded the video to send to his girlfriend, flipping the camera to show his face as he is surrounded by the lions The lions begin stalking around the keeper, who seems unaware of the danger they pose to him Then, just two minutes after he unlocked the door and entered the cage, the video takes a harrowing turn, with one of the lions launching an attack on the unassuming keeper. He lets out piercing screams as he is overcome by the animals, his camera still running. The video goes dark, but the chilling audio of his yells continues, as he continues to beg: 'Be quiet, be quiet.' The footage then cuts, but reports say that the lions then devoured the guard. The beasts 'tore the skin off the guard's face', according to Russian media reports. Rescuers tranquilised two of the lions and shot the third dead following the fatal attack. An official statement said: 'The lions killed him and partially consumed his body.' The man's remains were only found by other zoo workers four hours after the attack, it was revealed. Horrific images, too graphic to publish, show what little was left of the man's bloodied body. The zookeeper is seen in a social media picture posing with a lion cub Uzbek media reported at the time that the man had been mauled by the three African lions after their cage had been left open by accident, with the animals able to get out of their cage and into the courtyard outside. Authorities launched an investigation into the incident at the time, with all the animals' enclosures checked and secured. 'As a result of the measures taken, the lions were returned to a special cage. No other people in the vicinity were harmed. There is currently no danger to the local population,' the Department of Internal Affairs said in a statement. Mr Iriskulov had previously shared social media pictures posing with a lion cub at the wildlife park. According to local media, the zoo houses 10 adult African lions, five lion cubs, one brown bear, one eagle, one cheetah and other non-predatory mammals and birds. The park has been open since June 2019 and is set in just over two acres of land. Sean 'Diddy' Combs' twin daughters celebrated the festive season with a Carribean vacation to St. Barts while their father languishes in a hellhole jail. Jessie and D'Lila Combs, who turned 18 the week before Christmas, were spotted with a friend aboard a luxury yacht moored off the island on Sunday. The twins wore matching pink dresses with their hair in braids, and were only distinguished by nameplates on their necklaces. It comes days after they reportedly marked Christmas with their brothers Quincy, 33, Justin 30, and Christian, 26, as well as sisters Chance, 18, and Love Sean, 2. In an Instagram post shared this week to their 'Combs Twins' account, the duo posed in front of a Christmas tree in pink minidresses, captioning the post: 'Blessed to see another.' While they enjoyed the festive period, their disgraced music mogul father remains in federal custody awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Diddy has pleaded not guilty, and in a recent report from Page Six he was said to have appeared in court earlier this month 'astonishingly thinner' and 'greyer', after months away from the lavish lifestyle he and his family were accustomed to. As he sat in his cell on Christmas, an insider told DailyMail.com that he had a meltdown because he couldn't believe he was still behind bars in a 'hellhole' Brooklyn jail. Sean 'Diddy' Combs' twin daughters were snapped celebrating the festive season with a Carribean vacation to St. Barts Jessie and D'Lila Combs, who turned 18 the week before Christmas, were spotted with a friend aboard a luxury yacht moored off the island on Sunday The twins enjoyed the festive season while their disgraced music mogul father remains in federal custody awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges It comes days after the twins marked Christmas together in an Instagram post, where they posed in front of a Christmas tree in pink minidresses, captioning the pic: 'Blessed to see another' Amid a slew of renewed allegations of sickening sex crimes against their father, Diddy's children have remained fiercely loyal to him since his arrest. In November, Diddy's children made headlines as they shared a video showing the moment they called him to wish him a happy birthday. In a video shared to the twins and their brother Justin Dior Combs' Instagram accounts, they were heard singing happy birthday to their father over a jailhouse phone. Diddy is then heard telling his children he is proud of all of them and 'looking forward to seeing them soon.' An upbeat Diddy said: 'I love y'all, I can't wait to see y'all. I'm proud of y'all, especially the girls, all of y'all, but just for being strong, thank you for being strong. 'Thank you for being by my side and supporting me, I got the best family in the world 'My birthday, I'm happy for you giving me this call, I'll see you in a couple of days.' Love, 2, told her father she loved him to which he responded: 'I love you too baby.' In the video shared in November, Diddy is heard telling his children he is proud of all of them and 'looking forward to seeing them soon' after they sing happy birthday to him Diddy pictured with his partner Kim Porter and twin daughters D'Lila and Jessie in 2007 The disgraced rap mogul remains incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn (pictured) after being repeatedly denied bail This comes as Diddy faces a string of sex charges alongside renewed allegations, including a new lawsuit alleging sexual assault against a 13-year-old girl. The new legal filing seen by DailyMail.com claims Diddy had allegedly 'aggressively approached' the young girl with a 'crazed look in his eyes' before sexually assaulting her. She claims an unidentified male celebrity also raped her while Diddy and an unnamed female celebrity watched. Diddy has denied the allegations. His attorneys told DailyMail.com he 'never sexually assaulted anyone' and said the most recent 'barrage of filings' were nothing but 'clear attempts to garner publicity'. Diddy was arrested in September on federal charges of racketeering, conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation for purposes of prostitution - and is incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, a prison that previously held Jeffrey Epstein , Ghislaine Maxwell and R Kelly. An insider told DailyMail.com this week that he had a meltdown in the prison because he was infuriated by his lawyers' inability to get him bailed out for the holidays. A panicked Diddy reportedly pleaded with guards to be taken to a prison hospital for observation, claiming he thought he was having a mental breakdown. In May 2024 a 2016 video would emerge of the rapper shirtless with a towel wrapped around his waist, chasing Cassie down the hall at the InterContinental Hotel in Century City before grabbing and kicking her (seen together in 2016) The rapper is filmed kicking Cassie as she lay on the ground The guards at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center refused his request, according to a source close to the rapper. 'With his high powered legal team Diddy thought hed be out on bail by now,' said the insider. 'Spending the holidays behind bars was a nightmare for him. He eventually managed to calm himself down with the meditation technique hes been using while hes been behind bars. It took him a few hours of deep breathing and focusing to get out of the bad space he was in, but he finally managed it.' A source close to Diddy, however, denied the claims, telling DailyMail.com the rapper 'is staying strong in jail - despite missing his family a great deal at Christmas, which is a time he always spends with his children.' Amid reports that Diddy has lost a significant amount of weight and is struggling behind bars, prison expert Larry Levine told DailyMail.com's hit podcast The Trial of Diddy that he is being visited by a psych team every day. 'He's not really on suicide watch but my inside source there tells me that there is someone coming by to visit with him several times a day, you know, to make sure that he's okay,' Levine remarked on the podcast. 'My sources are telling me that [Diddy] is getting extra showers a week,' he alleged. 'I don't know how many. It probably varies. They're giving them extra privileges.' Following his arrest, Diddy's seven children shared a joint statement supporting him ahead of his trial, which is expected to begin in May 2025. 'The past month has devastated our family,' they wrote on Instagram . 'Many have judged both him and us based on accusations, conspiracy theories, and false narratives that have spiraled into absurdity on social media. 'We stand united, supporting you every step of the way. We hold onto the truth, knowing it will prevail, and nothing will break the strength of our family. WE MISS YOU & LOVE YOU DAD.' A romantic California beach party, set with dozens of plastic rose petals, ended in outrage after the 'cheapskate' lovebirds left the sand littered with trash. What seemed like an idyllic oceanfront celebration at Santa Barbara's Douglas Family Preserve ended in fury after the lovestruck partiers left the stunning coastline marred by an unsightly heap of trash. 'Hope your relationship ends in divorce,' a Reddit user posted on Sunday, coupled with several pictures of the 'cheap' trash left behind. The displeasing photos depict dozens of plastic rose petals scattered around the popular oceanfront lookout, seemingly left behind by whoever enjoyed the special moment as a mess for someone else to clean. Captioned, 'Or don't be cheap and use real rose petals instead,' the post called out the 'trashy' beachgoers. The post, which also included a pair of pictures displaying the abandoned empty packaging, has since ignited a slew of insults as the shameful post has since received nearly 4,000 upvotes. 'Nothing says eternal love like microplastics,' one user wrote just after the original post went up. 'I had to google fresh rose petals bulk. And then fake rose petals. This person saved less than 100 bucks to be a sh***y person,' another commented. A romantic California beach party, set with dozens of plastic rose petals, ended in outrage after the 'cheapskate' lovebirds left the sand littered with trash What seemed like an idyllic oceanfront celebration at Santa Barbara's Douglas Family Preserve ended in fury after the 'in-love' partiers left the stunning coastline marred by an unsightly heap of trash Another added: 'Who in their right mind would say yes to a proposal using fake plastic petals? What a cheap display when real roses would compost and contribute to a healthy environment.' 'Nothing says true love like fake flower petals and littering,' one user commented. However, some environmentally-conscious users chimed in, applauding the clean-up crew for their generous efforts. 'Geez. Kudos for cleaning up after them,' one user commented. Another added: 'Thank you for cleaning up after those idiot slobs. All of this plastic, right next to the ocean. Pfft.' The 'large open-space area' nestled on California's central coast features walking trails along the Pacific Ocean, according to the city's website. Captioned, 'Or don't be cheap and use real rose petals instead,' the weekend post called out the 'trashy' beachgoers The 'large open-space area' nestled on California's central coast features walking trails along the Pacific Ocean, according to the city's website. Pictured: The Douglas Family Preserve in Santa Barbara, California The parks and recreation site, also notes that 'events and commercial activities are not permitted in the Douglas Family Preserve.' Santa Barbara, known for its beaches, arts and culture, is also home to many passionate locals who have been linked to going to extreme lengths to protect their highly sought-after trails and public spaces. Earlier this year, Montecito residents blocked parking areas near known starting points for hikers looking to trek up to the nearby Montecito Hot Springs. However, the move resulted in Santa Barbara Countys public works department sending letters to half a dozen homes in the area requesting they remove the obstacles or face fines, civil litigation or criminal charges. A family's birthday trip to Mexico ended in tragedy after gunmen opened fire on their vehicle, killing three men and wounding their teenage son. Chicago siblings Vicente Pena Jr., 38, and Antonio Fernandez, 44, and their Mexico-based cousin Jorge Vargas, 22, were shot dead during a roadside attack in Santiago de Papasquiaro, a town in the northern state of Durango, on Friday night. Pena Jr.'s son, Jason Pena, who turned 14 on Monday, is currently in an induced coma after undergoing surgery for a gunshot wound in the head. The victims were traveling in a black GMC Yukon with Illinois plates when they were attacked, local authorities said. All four victims' bodies were found lying on the ground next to the vehicle. Paramedics were seen providing medical attention to one of the victims. Jason's maternal grandmother, Maria Elena Hernandez, told Univision Chicago the three men and her grandson were all shot in the head. 'His grandfather, my son-in-law's father, told me that the boy was beaten and that maybe he got into a fight with the criminals who killed them,' she said. Chicago resident Vicente Pena Jr. (right) was shot dead in a roadside attack Friday in Durango, Mexico that left his brother and cousin dead and his son, Jason Pena (left), in an induced coma after undergoing surgery for a gunshot wound in the head Antonio Fernandez, of Chicago, was shot dead along with his brother, Vicente Pena, who also lives in Chicago and cousin, Jorge Vargas, who lives in Durango. Hernandez's nephew and his brother's son, Jason Pena, was shot in the head and is in a coma Tony Pena Sr. told Telemundo Chicago that his son and Hernandez were each shot four times in the shoulder and once in the head. Vargas was shot three times. 'I feel very devastated because they killed my entire family,' he said. 'That was a massacre, as they say.' The teenager's mother, Rosy Cabral, set up an account on Spot Fund, to raise money to transport the boy to Chicago in an air ambulance. 'I plan on transferring my son to USA for better care and a higher chance of survival,' Cabral wrote. 'I am waiting on him to be a bit more stable in order to transfer him to [the United States].' Paramedics tend to Chicago teenager Jason Pena, who was shot in the head during a roadside attack that left his father, uncle and cousin dead Friday in Santiago de Papasquiaro, a town in the northern state of Durango Mexican authorities found the bodies of all four victims on the ground next to their vehicle Jorge Vargas was shot at least three times during last Friday's roadside attack in Mexico that left him and his two cousins dead and a 14-year-old cousin critically injured United Giving Home has been assisting the family with the process and reached out to the Department of State and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth. Julie Contreras, a pastor for the non-profit organization, told ABC 7 Chicago that Jason's youngest brother learned of the shooting. 'It is very heart-wrenching and currently this family is living a nightmare,' Contreras said. 'We just want to bring them home so they can be safe.' The disturbing attack comes as the Department of State maintains a travel advisory for different states in Mexico. The government urges U.S. citizens to reconsider traveling to Durango because of 'violent crime and gang activity.' A family ran out on a $428 check before almost running over their waiter in a dine and dash scam. The party of ten racked up the tab at Miami's La Camaronera on Friday. Surveillance footage captured them fleeing through the car park, with one woman pushing a baby in a stroller. As they piled into their SUV, their waiter came running out to inform they they hadn't paid. But as he approached, the vehicle sped up almost ploughing into and shunting him into oncoming traffic passing on nearby Flagler Street. 'You see him pulling off and the driver driving off on Flagler and my employee had to kind of jump off, putting his life in danger,' restaurant owner David Garcia told WSVN. 'Absolutely they saw him, they wouldn't have speeded out of this parking lot the way that they did.' A family ran out on a $428 check before almost running over their waiter in a dine and dash scam A waiter at La Camaronera in Miami noticed they had failed to pay and tried to pursue them However, the family had piled into their SUV and began making a break for it, almost running over the waiter in the process Garcia said that another family member not present for the meal returned to settle the check on Monday after he shamed the scammers on social media. 'No restaurant should go through what we went through that day and what my employee went through. That employee of mine had a baby three days before,' he added. However, he said he has decided to take mercy on the customers and decided not to press any charges since the check was settled. But he added he will not hesitate to expose anyone else thinking of pulling a similar stunt. 'If anybody thinks about doing it, they're gonna get caught,' Garcia said. Fellow Florida restaurateur Ken Brackins revealed last year how he has begun publicly shaming dine and dashers. He explained that since he began sharing footage of suspects on social media, he has managed to clamp down on incidents. Since its implementation, Brackins said he has caught nearly a dozen 'dine and dashers' who have eventually paid their bill. #VIDEO: Party of 10 dine and ditch at popular La Camaronera before nearly running over their waiter on Flagler Street. Embarrassed relative shamed into paying bill after social media posts. @wsvn #Exclusive story: pic.twitter.com/TYBl0YblbC Sheldon Fox-7 News (@fox_sheldon) December 31, 2024 Owner David Garcia said that another family member not present for the meal returned to settle the check on Monday after he shamed the scammers on social media Garcia has chosen not to press charges as a gesture of goodwill but warned others against pulling a similar stunt 'We've shared approximately 10 dine and dash posts. Nine of the 10 have resulted in the culprits coming in and settling their tabs,' Brackins told Dailymail.com. 'But I would say that 100% of them that come back and pay, don't tip. 'And they also want to call in a payment with a credit card. But I make them come in. They always seem to have an excuse for why they forgot to pay.' A two-year-old girl was horrifically killed after she fell from and was later struck by a crowded side-by-side utility vehicle on Saturday. Ellieana Mishoe, of Aiken, tragically died after she fell from the UTV (utility terrain vehicle), which had three other passengers, including another two-year-old, South Carolina Highway Patrol said. 'The toddler appeared to have fallen off the vehicle and was ultimately run over by it,' a state trooper spokesperson told WMBF News. The harrowing accident happened around 5:15 pm on a dimly-lit Bay View Drive in Aiken, just 12 miles north of Loris. Ellieana's father, Woody Mishoe, has since shared an emotional tribute to his late daughter on social media, describing her as 'my world.' He wrote: 'This world is tough and mean. Please hold your babies and family tight. My beautiful PUNKIN left this world yesterday afternoon to go be with Jesus.' 'Ellieana was one of Gods angels sent from heaven, with the sweetest and most outgoing personality of anyone I have ever known. She loved with her whole heart and lived life to the fullest. The world was her canvas, and she painted it in rainbows every day of her precious life,' the post continued. According to South Carolina Law, children must be at least eight years old to be passengers in a registered UTV while it's operated on a road. Ellieana Mishoe, of Aiken, tragically died after she fell from the UTV, which had three other passengers, including another 2-year-old, South Carolina Highway Patrol said The toddler appeared to have fallen off the vehicle and was ultimately run over by it, according to state troopers. Pictured: Ellieana Mishoe and her father, Woody, sit inside a UTV The harrowing accident happened around 5:15 pm on a dimly-lit Bay View Drive in Aiken, just 12 miles north of Loris The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident, which remains under review. Earlier this year, a Minnesota mother lost two of her four sons following a devastating UTV accident. On January 7, a UTV driven by her older child collided with a pick-up truck, sending her three of her four sons to the hospital. Lara Dahl said that her boys, William and Harrison, aged 15 and 11 respectively, died after the deadly crash that occurred near Wilmar, Minnesota, two weeks ago. William was driving the Polaris Ranger with his two younger brothers heading home when their UTV collided with a pick-up truck driven by Matthew Leroy Anderson, 40, who was not hurt. The 15-year-old boy lost his life two days after the crash. His younger brother, Harrison, was pronounced dead a week later at the same hospital. '[Harrison] fought so hard, but his little body couldnt handle all the stress and trauma. We are going to miss his witty comments, his energy, his adventurous self,' the stricken mother wrote on a CaringBridge page, announcing the tragic news. The family went out with their pick-up truck and UTV to some hunting land to pick up trail cameras and deer stands on a normal Sunday afternoon, Lara said. 'We drive the ranger around, laughed, all the boys showed me where they got their bucks. It was seriously the best afternoon!' she wrote. Lara Dahl lost two of her four sons, William and Harrison Dahls (pictured second and fourth from left), after a UTV (utility terrain vehicle) driven by her older child collided with a pick-up truck on January 7 in Wilmar, Minnesota. The Dahl brothers pictured from left: Drew, William, Gage and Harrison 'After getting back to the truck, Will, Harry and Drew asked to drive the ranger home- something theyve done dozens of times.' Lara, her husband, Mike, and their second eldest son, Gage, went home in the truck and started preparing dinner until they received a call about the crash. She recalled: 'I knew something was off because it was taking them so long. Mike got the call, and we rushed to the scene.' 'Will and Harry were not moving, but they were breathing. Drew was screaming. We didnt know the extent of their injuries, but Will was flown right from the scene.' The other two boys, Harrison and Drew, were transported by ambulance and later flown to Children's Hospital in Minneapolis - the same hospital where William was sent. William suffered the worst injuries among the three boys, and doctors were not able to detect any brain activity after he was rushed to hospital. Lara wrote on January 8th: 'Sleepless night of tears, the unknown, and kissing our babies was utmost horrible night of our lives.' After two brain analyses that found no activity, William was declared dead. His family decided to donate his organs to help other children in need. A health boss has issued a warning to revellers after the Welsh Ambulance Service declared a 'critical incident' due to increased rates of COVID, flu and viruses. Earlier today the Trust announced 'critical incident' as hundreds of calls waiting wait to be answered and patients stand-by for hours in hopes to see paramedics. The health service, which serves around three-million people in Wales, was said to have over 340 calls waiting to be answered when the critical incident was declared yesterday evening. More than half of the Trust's ambulances were also waiting to hand over patients outside hospitals, leading to some people waiting 'many hours' for an ambulance. Now, Welsh Ambulance Chief Executive Jason Killens has said an increased pressure on the service has been a by-product 'of flu and Covid and other respiratory viruses circulating through the winter.' Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Mr Killens warned New Year's Eve revellers to be 'sensible' while celebrating to avoid adding extra pressure on the already strained service. 'People out celebrating can help us tonight by, of course, having a good time, but drinking sensibly, eating before they go out and looking after their friends,' he said. 'I want to apologise to patients who waited too long yesterday and continue to wait this morning.' The Welsh Ambulance Service has declared a 'critical incident' as over 340 calls waited to be answered yesterday evening (file image) Welsh Ambulance Chief Executive Jason Killens (pictured) has said an increased pressure on the service has been a by-product 'of flu and Covid and other respiratory viruses' The current state of the service has also been boiled down to significantly increased demand across the 999 service and extensive handover delays. The Trust said it has taken additional measures to ensure it can continue to deliver a service to the public, whilst urging people to only call 999 for serious emergencies. They have advised members of the public to seek advice from a GP, pharmacist, a minor injuries unit or to visit the NHS Wales 111 website for guidance. The Welsh Ambulance Service has branded the circumstance as 'very rare', whilst adding that they were 'very sorry' for the level of service they are providing. Ambulance head, Stephen Sheldon added: 'It is very rare that we declare a critical incident, but with significant demand on our service and more than 90 ambulances waiting to hand over patients outside of hospital, our ability to help patients has been impacted. 'Regrettably, this means that some patients will wait longer for an ambulance to arrive and for their calls to be answered. 'For that, we are very sorry because this is not the level of service we want to provide. 'We understand that this is frustrating for patients, but can assure them that we are doing everything we can to relieve the pressure on our service. 'The public can help by only calling 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency - that's a cardiac arrest, chest pain or breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, choking or catastrophic bleeding. 'If it's not a life-threatening emergency, then it's important you use one of the many alternatives to 999, starting with the symptom checkers on our NHS 111 Wales website as well as your GP, pharmacist and minor injuries unit. Patients were also left waiting 'hours' for paramedics who were left queuing outside of A&Es (file image) The declaration comes amid an increase in flu cases with several health boards in Wales issuing new rules regarding face coverings for staff and visitors (file image) 'We must protect our precious resources for those who need them the most. 'Our staff and volunteers are doing a brilliant job under difficult circumstances, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work during these very challenging times across the health service.' Chief executive Jason Killens said New Year's Eve revellers in Wales could help the Ambulance Service by drinking in moderation this evening. 'People out celebrating can help us tonight by of course, having a good time, but drinking sensibly, eating before they go out and looking after their friends,' he said. Asked about the cause of the increased demand, he said: 'This pressure across the health system is a result of flu and Covid and other respiratory viruses circulating through the winter. 'What we have seen in the last 24 to 48 hours is an acute accumulation of those pressures.' It comes after a critical incident was also announced because of high demand - especially in southeast Wales - in December 2020. Later in 2023 an 'extraordinary incident' was issued after an ambulance waited over 28 hours outside a hospital, the BBC reports. The Trust revealed 16 ambulances had been waiting - all at once - outside A&E's at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, directly impacting other services. At the time, previous First Minister Mark Drakeford said announcing incidents like these was a 'tool' used by those in the service to permit 'mutual aid' to be ushered in, whilst forewarning more would likely be declared. The most recent 'critical incident' declaration came amid a number of Welsh health boards issuing new rules for patients and visitors as flu cases increase. Cwm Taf Morgannwg. Hywel Dda, Aneurin Bevan and Cardiff and Vale all brought in fresh face mask rules last weekend. Swansea Bay as well as Betsi Cadwaladr urged the public to avoid hospital visits for the time being if possible, while staff and visitors also now have to wear face coverings to reduce the flu spread. A teenager was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer just a month after he was told he had pulled a muscle in his back and now his family are trying to raise 50,000 for life-extending treatment in the US. Jack Constable, an 18-year-old student from Taunton was misdiagnosed with a 'pulled muscle' after seeing a GP nurse with a lump in his ribs which appeared overnight. Two months later in November 2023 he was diagnosed with extremely rare Ewing Sarcoma cancer and told he had a tumour the size of a watermelon in his chest cavity. Ewing sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the bones and the soft tissue around the bones. He was initially told the tumours had a 90 per cent cure rate, however it turned out the cancer is now terminal and his family are now seeking life-extending treatment in the US. His family has learned that they must raise 'at least 50,000' to have it ready in the event that the teen needs life-extending treatment in the United States. Jack's mother Katie Constable described him as a 'healthy lad' who had no symptoms whatsoever when he discovered a lump in his chest. She told The Independent: 'We went to see a nurse practitioner who lifted Jack's shirt and she didn't even touch him or examine him and within two minutes we were out she said oh its just a pulled muscle dont do anything and if it doesnt go down come back in eight weeks. Jack Constable, 18, (pictured with his parents Jeremy, 49, and Katie Constable, 50) was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer last year Jack was initially told by a GP nurse that he had pulled a muscle in his back, two months before he was re-diagnosed with cancer 'Then to be told hes got cancer was just horrendous. 'Something didn't feel right. In eight weeks, time I called and it was another nurse practitioner, who saw Jack, and as soon as she saw Jack said there's no way that's a pulled muscle.' Jack was studying A-Levels in Photography, business and criminology but his diagnosis meant he had become too unwell to study. In the past 12 months, he has undergone 14 rounds of chemotherapy, 42 rounds of proton beam therapy and a 12 hour long operation. A family friend has now started a fundraising page to try and raise part of the 50,000 in order to go to America for treatment. He is currently undergoing two rounds of chemotherapy before having a rescan which will determine if the family will need to travel for the treatment. His mother said the cancer is so rare that there is very little information and very few specialists in the UK. She described her son as a 'social bunny' who is loved by everyone, The Somerset County Gazette reported. Jack's mother Katie described her son as a 'social bunny' who is loved by everyone The family have said that if the scans show that the chemotherapy is working and he does not need to go to the US, the money will then be donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust. UK data shows that while cancer rates have increased across all age groups, cases have increased far faster among the young. According to Cancer Research UK (CRUK), the incidence rate among younger Brits (aged between 25-49) is now 162.4 cases per 100,000 people each year. This is 22 per cent higher than the figure in the 90s. Brent Webster, First Assistant Attorney General of Texas, addresses the media during a press conference in Austin, TX on Thursday, June 9, 2022. Sergio Flores / HOUSTON CHRONICLE The Texas Supreme Court on Tuesday ended a professional misconduct case against a top aide to Attorney General Ken Paxton for his role in challenging the 2020 election results, previewing a likely outcome for a similar case against Paxton. In a 7-2 decision, the court dismissed a complaint against First Assistant Attorney General Brent Webster that was filed nearly four years ago by a committee of the State Bar of Texas. The committee initiated separate complaints against Webster and Paxton over their legal efforts to challenge the election results in four key battleground states won by Joe Biden. READ MORE: Some Texas Supreme Court justices appear skeptical of misconduct suit against top Paxton aide Advertisement Article continues below this ad Paxtons election lawsuit, which was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court for a lack of standing, made false claims and raised doubts about the election, the bar committee alleged. The state bar, of which Paxton and Webster are members, prohibits lawyers from engag[ing] in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in its professional conduct guidelines. Justices on the state supreme court, however, questioned during oral arguments whether the committee was basing its complaint on politics, not misconduct. The all-Republican courts ruling on Tuesday, authored by Justice Evan Young, describes the commissions complaint as a collateral attack and reverses lower court rulings that had sided with the bar. The U.S. Supreme Court, not the state bar, had ultimate authority to address concerns with private or public attorneys in Texas, the justices argued. Paxton celebrated the dismissal in a press release, also mentioning the similar baseless allegations pending against himself. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mauritius is overplaying its hand with demands for more money to secure the Chagos Islands, a former top mandarin has warned. Simon McDonald, who was the most senior civil servant at the Foreign Office and head of the Diplomatic Service between 2015 and 2020, urged the UK to stand firm. Britain agreed to hand over the Chagos Islands archipelago, also known as the British Indian Ocean Territory, to Mauritius in October. But Mauritius has reportedly asked for 800million a year and billions of pounds in reparations as part of the negotiations - described as crazy money by a source familiar with the talks. Lord McDonald told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that the Mauritian government is overplaying its hand. It is not at all unusual for a new government to come in, as a new government has come in in the last two months in Mauritius, and look at what its predecessor has done and think we could do better, he said. And that was the spirit of the initial exchanges between London and Port Louis, but the new government is not looking to tweak the agreements as far as I can see, but to ask for many multiples more pounds or dollars from the UK. It feels to me that they are overdoing it and they will not succeed. Lord Simon McDonald, the former top civil servant at the Foreign Office, urged the UK to stand firm Diego Garcia, part of the Chagos Islands. Britain agreed to hand over the Chagos Islands archipelago, also known as the British Indian Ocean Territory, to Mauritius in October Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) has been facing calls to abandon his surrender of the archipelago after Mauritius new government rejected a proposed deal and started demanding more money Lord McDonald urged the UK government to keep negotiating and not to accept the demands for extra money. [Mauritian PM Navin] Ramgoolam is new in office but he is not the only new factor on the horizon - the other is President Trump, he added. Its three weeks until the inauguration and if he thinks it is going to get easier when we have a new president in the Oval Office, he doesnt have long to wait to be disabused. Lord McDonald, now a crossbench peer, said the UK would not be pushed as far as Mauritius is trying right now. If there is no agreement, this will linger maybe for many more years, and if it lingers that means Mauritians will get nothing. Under the deal, the UK would give up sovereignty over the islands, including Diego Garcia, which houses a strategically important UK-US military base. The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) or Chagos Islands (formerly the Oil Islands) is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom situated in the Indian Ocean, halfway between Africa and Indonesia Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos archipelago But it was struck before elections in both Mauritius and the US and senior figures in the incoming Trump administration have voiced doubts about it. Mr Ramgoolam has said the draft deal would not produce the benefits that the nation could expect and that negotiations had restarted. In a joint statement earlier this month, the UK and Mauritius said they hoped to finalise the deal to hand back the Chagos Islands as quickly as possible. China's President Xi Jinping warned that 'no one can stop' unification with Taiwan in a chilling New Year's Eve threat. Beijing claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory, and has said it will not renounce the use of force to bring it under its control. China has intensified pressure on the democratic island in recent years, and has staged three rounds of major military drills since President Lai Ching-te came to power in May. The last of these earlier this month were the largest in years according to Taiwanese officials, although Beijing has not officially confirmed the manoeuvres. 'Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our blood ties, and no one can stop the historical trend of the reunification of the motherland,' Xi said in a speech broadcast on state media. Xi's comments come just weeks before Donald Trump takes office in the United States. Taiwan remains a significant point of disagreement between China and the US. While the US doesn't formally recognise Taiwan, it is a key strategic partner and its main arms supplier. 'Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our blood ties, and no one can stop the historical trend of the reunification of the motherland,' Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a speech broadcast on state media People walk past a screen that shows Chinese President Xi Jinping delivering a New Year message in Beijing, China, 31 December, 2024 A parade unit of the Chinese Armed Forces during the Victory Day military parade in Red Square marking the 75th anniversary of the victory in World War II, on June 24, 2020 in Moscow, Russia The US-China relationship may sour further after Trump is inaugurated on January 20, with the president-elect vowing more tariffs to punish what he calls unfair trade practices by China. However, Beijing denies the allegations. China views Taiwan, a self-governing island as its territory and maintains it will use force if necessary to achieve control. Beijing has increased pressure on Taiwan, conducting three major military exercises since President Lai Ching-te assumed office in May. The most recent drills, which took place earlier this month, were reportedly the largest in several years, according to Taiwanese officials. In October, China carried out 'total blockade' drills around Taiwan after Taipei vowed to resist any Beijing attack in the same month. China deployed fighter jets and warships to encircle Taiwan in drills Beijing said were aimed at sending a 'stern warning' to 'separatist' forces on the self-ruled island. Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring Taiwan under its control and the drills represented its fourth round of large-scale war games in the past two years. In May, after Ching-te's inauguration, large scale drills were announced - dubbed Joint Sword 2024A - which combined air and sea operations and missile forces, surrounding Taiwan from all sides while simulating a blockade. The drills were 'focusing on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas', Captain Li Xi, spokesman for the Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command said. Armed military vehicles patrol outside the Songshan Airport in Taipei after China deployed fighter jets and warships to encircle Taiwan on October 14, in drills Beijing said were aimed at sending a 'stern warning' to 'separatist' forces on the self-ruled island Taiwan Navy Kuang Hua VI-class missile boats maneuver at the Keelung military harbor in Keelung city, Taiwan, October 14, 2024 Footage captured the moment Taiwan's coast guard warned a Chinese vessel spotted near Matsu Islands They also practised an 'assault on maritime and ground targets', and fighter jets and warships had been deployed, Chinese state media said. China warned that efforts towards 'Taiwan independence' and peace were 'irreconcilable' as its military launched its drills. 'Taiwan independence and peace in the Taiwan Strait are irreconcilable,' foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, warning that 'provocations from pro-independence forces will inevitably face countermeasures'. The United States said China's actions were 'unwarranted' and risk 'escalation' as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending in warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters. 'In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness,' Taiwan's defence ministry said at the time of the drills. President Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency. But Beijing said the drills were 'a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity'. The current dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to Taiwan in 1949. Since then, China and Taiwan have been ruled separately. A Texas mother said she and her young family have been trapped in their home after a pack of stray pit bulls took over her neighborhood. Janelle Hobbs said she 'can't even walk out my front door' because a group of four of the aggressive canines ambush her every time she leaves her Harris County home. She said she has been forced to slip in and out of her garage to avoid the pit bulls, and has even had to keep her 20-month-old daughter Ramona inside . 'She's my life, she's my everything,' Hobbs told ABC13. 'I'd like to take my daughter out in a stroller, get her out in the open, and I won't even do that. It's terrifying.' Surveillance footage captured the moment Hobbs was almost attacked by the dogs, an occurrence she said is all too frequent whenever she opens her front gate. 'If anyone comes to my gate, they're (the dogs) are on it,' she added. She said she has been left frustrated by a lack of action from local officials and has been warning locals to avoid her home. ABC13 reported that moments before her interview, they saw Hobbs warn two women across the street: 'You need to go, those dogs are aggressive and will attack.' Surveillance footage captured the moment Janelle Hobbs was ambushed by a pack of stray pit bulls that she says attack anytime 'anyone comes to my gate' Hobbs said she has been forced to escape the pit bulls on numerous occasions, and won't allow her 20-month-old daughter Ramona out their front door because of the dogs In footage Hobbs shared of the pit bulls ambushing her, she was seen racing back into her front gate before the dogs could reach her. In another clip, she was seen hurrying a neighbor's dog onto her property, fearing the pit bulls could attack. Although Hobbs was able to flee the dogs before they got to her, the mother also shared footage of a delivery man who was not so lucky. Within moments of arriving at Hobbs' door, the delivery man was set upon by two of the pit bulls - with one of the dogs then biting him on the hand. Hobbs said after that the dogs attack 'if anyone comes to my gate.' Footage shared by Hobbs showed a delivery driver being bitten on the hand by one of the dogs Hobbs said she believes the four pit bulls have taken over a vacant unit across the street from her home and ambush anyone who tries to enter her front door The young mother said she has been left frustrated by a lack of action from local officials, and it has been left up to her to warn locals to avoid her home She said locals believe the four dogs have taken over a vacant unit across the street from her and emerge through a broken window. A Harris County Animal Control spokesperson told ABC13 that they have received a number of calls about stray dogs in Hobbs' Pine Village North neighborhood. The agency said it impounded one dog a week prior, but that was the only one they could find. Hobbs said she has been left frustrated by officials not removing all four dogs. 'I hope somebody comes and gets them,' she concluded. An Illinois man allegedly shot and killed his sister-in-law on Christmas Day after mistaking her for an intruder. Daniel Garcia, 52, of Schaumburg - about 40 minutes outside of Chicago - was charged with involuntary manslaughter of a family member after police responded to the 1800 block of Carlisle Court around 7.15am Wednesday. At the home, officers discovered his wife's sister, Kellie Barnett, 50, with a gunshot wound to her torso as she laid 15-20ft from Garcia's side of the bed in he and his wife's bedroom, according to an affidavit obtained by NBC Chicago. Investigators later determined that Barnett, of New Lenox, was staying the night at her sister's home in a spare bedroom when Garcia allegedly woke up and shot her thinking she was an intruder. His wife, Barnett's sister, told police she was suddenly woke up after hearing a loud gunshot, and ran out to see her sister lying in the hallway outside the bedroom door. During a 911 call, Garcia admitted to fatally shooting Barnett and later told police he keeps a loaded 9mm Glock semi-automatic handgun in a holster on the side of his bed. He also admitted that he forgot his sister-in-law was spending the night in the guest bedroom for the holiday, court documents showed. Barnett was taken to Ascension Saint Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates, where she was pronounced dead after the bullet traveled to her chest, police said. Daniel Garcia, 52, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter of a family member after he allegedly shot and killed his sister-in-law on Christmas Day Garcia told police he forget his sister-in-law Kellie Barnett, 50, was staying an he and his wife's house for the holiday and thought she was an intruder After executing a search warrant on the residence, police found the handgun on Garcia's side of the bed with one fired cartridge case underneath a pillow, according to authorities. A bullet was also discovered near the hallway doorway. Garcia holds a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FID) card and a concealed carry license, according to the outlet. According to the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, the night before the fatal incident Garcia, his wife and sister-in-law were making homemade gifts and watching Christmas movies until around 3am when they all went to bed, the outlet reported. Barnett's friends and family have shared heartfelt messages online after hearing of her tragic death. During a 911 call, Garcia admitted to fatally shooting Barnett and later told police he keeps a loaded 9mm Glock semi-automatic handgun in a holster on the side of his bed The night before the fatal incident Garcia, his wife and sister-in-law were making homemade gifts and watching Christmas movies until around 3am when they all went to bed 'You were an amazing person. I cherish the time I had with you,' one wrote. Another remembered her as 'a great spirit and a beautiful woman in all' who 'accepted everyone.' 'I loved you. You were the light of this place. A great spirit and a beautiful woman in all,' they wrote. 'You accepted everyone for who they were and didn't care what others thought. Thank you for giving me the pleasure of being my friend. I will miss you.' Neighbors were left in disbelief by the shooting, as one told NBC Chicago: 'We've been here a long time, but never seen anything like this before.' Another neighbor, Scot Eckman, told WGN9: 'The neighbors said there were like 10 cop cars, and all kinds of cops. Your browser does not support iframes. 'There was police tape around the whole house. There was a forensic van here for five or six hours on Christmas day. He also told NBC Chicago that despite 'sharing a wall' with Garcia's house, he and his family 'slept right through everything.' Garcia was arrested at the scene and taken to Schaumburg Police Department for further questioning before being charged. He is currently being held in Cook County Jail without bond, jail records show. He appeared in court on Friday for a pre-trial detention hearing and is expected back on January 17 in Rolling Meadows. If convicted, Garcia could face three to 14 years in prison. The Tories have been warned that an unpopular Labour Government is 'insufficient' to see them recover their fortunes. Pollsters at Survation said Nigel Farage's Reform UK was now providing an 'alternative channel' for right-leaning voters. Their final voting intention poll of the year found Labour were backed by 30 per cent of voters - a four-point decline since July's general election. The Tories were up one point to 25 per cent, with Reform up six points to 20 per cent. Survation said Reform had been the 'biggest beneficiaries' of Labour's fall in support amid Sir Keir Starmer's rocky start to his spell as Prime Minister. It came as Mr Farage used his New Year's message to claim Britain had been 'appallingly led' for several decades. In a video filmed at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the Reform leader said 'there's a buzz, there's an energy, there's an optimism' around his party. He added that 'tens of thousands of people' had joined Reform over the Christmas period. Survation's final voting intention poll of the year found Labour were backed by 30 per cent of voters - a four-point decline since July's general election Nigel Farage used his New Year's message to claim Britain had been 'appallingly led' for several decades In a video filmed at Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the Reform leader said 'there's a buzz, there's an energy, there's an optimism' around his party Mr Farage has spent the past few days engaged in a bitter spat with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch over Reform's membership figures Labour won a House of Commons majority of 174 at July's general election to replace the Tories in power, but saw their victory dubbed a 'loveless landslide'. Jack Peacock, strategy and research manager at Survation, said the electorate had not given a 'ringing endorsement' of Labour this summer. He wrote in a blog post: 'This is reflected in the prevailing view that despite winning the largest majority since 1997, the past six months have been a struggle for the party.' But he cautioned that a slump in Labour's popularity would not automatically benefit the Tories. 'An unpopular Labour government alone is insufficient to drive a Conservative recovery, as right-leaning voters have an alternative channel for expressing their dissatisfaction,' he added. Vote shares for the major parties such as those in the final Survation poll of 2024 'could stretch the first-past-the-post to its breaking point', the polling expert continued. Mr Farage has spent the past few days engaged in a bitter spat with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch over Reform's membership figures. Their row erupted after an online counter on Reform's website indicated the party now had more members than the last known Tory figure of 131,680. But Ms Badenoch claimed the counter was 'a fake' and 'coded to tick up automatically', prompting Reform to consider legal action. In his New Year's message, Mr Farage said that Reform had since passed 150,000 members. 'The fish rots from the head down,' he added in his video filmed at Blenheim Palace. 'We've been appallingly led in this country now for several decades. 'We're in societal decline, we're in economic decline, most people are getting poorer with every year that passes, we're losing any sense of national identity and we're actually teaching kids at school that people like Winston Churchill born in this palace are bad people and that our country's history is something to be ashamed of.' The Duke of Marlborough, who is Winston Churchill's great nephew and the current occupant of Blenheim Palace, revealed himself to be a Reform supporter ahead of the general election. The Duke, also known as Jamie Blandford or Jamie Churchill, wore a Reform rosette at Royal Ascot in June. He claimed Mr Farage 'could end up in the same league' as his famous ancestor and Britain's wartime PM. Chilling footage shows police officers laughing and joking while watching footage of a 20 year-old woman being terribly injured by an exploding cocktail. The unidentified 20-year-old was drinking at Courtside Bar and Grill in Binghamton on December 27 when the incident occurred, with an unnamed cop since suspended for leaking surveillance footage of the distressing incident. It shows the moment the woman was engulfed in flames after the drink was lit on fire. Two other people were also left with minor injuries. In the background, voices can be heard laughing and commenting on the clip. A police officer has since been suspended over the video amid allegations it was leaked by someone involved in the investigation. It is unclear if he was one of the men heard laughing. The video shows the woman sitting at the bar when suddenly a blaze erupts in front of her and another customer. She jumps up and begins frantically trying to pat out the flames on her chest and head. The other person at the bar crumples to the floor and starts desperately pawing at their head as decorations from the nearby bar then fall on top of them. A New York woman was left badly injured after a flaming cocktail exploded in her face at a bar The 20-year-old was drinking at Courtside Bar and Grill in Binghamton on December 27 when the incident occurred 'That was f***king awesome,' a voice is heard saying at the start of the clip. 'She was just there celebrating her 21st birthday,' another adds before they watch the explosion. 'Maybe they did switch it out with a f***king Vietnam flamethrower,' another remarks. 'That looks like it stuck to her like napalm,' a third man adds. The 20-year-old was rushed to Upstate Medical in Syracuse while the other two injured parties were treated at the scene for minor burns. Police charged bartender Camlyn Lyons, 28, of Vestal with unlawful sale of alcohol to a person under 18. They also confirmed they have suspended an officer without pay over the leaked footage. 'The Binghamton Police Department's Office of Internal Affairs is conducting an investigation into the unauthorized sharing of video evidence from the December 27 fire at 56 Court St., subsequently posted on social media,' Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham told WBNG. Two other patrons were left with minor injuries and were treated at the scene Binghamton police have suspended an officer over allegations that security footage of the incident was leaked 'As a result of that ongoing investigation, a patrol officer has been suspended without pay indefinitely. ' I anticipate further disciplinary action for the suspended officer and for any other officer found to have violated department policy. 'I will reserve additional comment until the investigation is complete. But I'm taking this matter very seriously.' A former CNN star who received particular praise for his real-time reporting on the September 11, 2001, attacks has died, his family has confirmed. Aaron Brown passed away Sunday, aged 76, his wife said - not revealing the cause of death. Before CNN, Brown worked as an anchor and reporter for ABC News, staying at the station throughout the 90s. But in 2001, the Minnesota-born newsman who began his career in Seattle, went to work for CNN, paving the way for a memorable first news-anchor broadcast - albeit an unscheduled one. Coming to viewers from the roof of CNNs Manhattan office as smoke billowed from what would come to be known as Ground Zero in the background, the segment earned Brown the Edward R. Murrow Award for outstanding journalism, after he reported on the terror attacks for 17 straight hours. And it gave him a following of viewers glued to every detail of what at first were still hopes of recovery at the World Trade Center rubble that turned into days and weeks of searching for answers and the remains of loved ones lost to the Osama bin Laden-coordinated attacks. His career as a trusted CNN news anchor took off from there, covering the consequent War on Terrorism, the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster, and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He earned an Emmy for his reporting from the streets of the country during the subsequent conflict. Brown would go on to host an evening hour for CNN - Newsnight at 10 pm - but in September 2004, after four years, CNN suddenly announced Brown would be leaving the network. That came as a surprise to some, as he had a following built through the years since his dogged reporting of 9/11. Aaron Brown, a former CNN anchor who received praise for his real-time reporting on the September 11, 2001, attacks (seen here), died Sunday, his family said Brown is seen in one of the network's New York studios the following month, after securing the trust of the public with the momentous, 17-hour broadcast - his first on the network. A cause of death was not immediately provided In 2008, he returned to television as the host of PBS' Wide Angle, before leaving the limelight for good in the following year. Up until 2014, he had taught journalism at Arizona State University. Tributes were quick to come in for the late news star. 'It was remarkable when we received a compliment from him,' David Fitzpatrick, a producer who worked with him on the ground during his coverage of the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia, told his old employer CNN. 'He was a signature anchor during his prime time,' he continued. 'His legacy will mean concise writing, concise presentation, and a calm demeanor in the face of crisis. Impactful, insightful, and measured.' Another of Brown's old producers, Molly Levinson, told ABC News: 'Aaron was a quintessential newsman to his core - so many people around the world remember his unflinching coverage on September 11... And in many ways, the events that followed.' She, like others, proceeded to provide a rundown of the anchor's memorable, no-nonsense reporting style. 'On air he gave simple, understandable - even elegant - analysis and reporting,' the former CNN staffer, who today is the founder and CEO of prominent public relations firm TLG, said. Before CNN, Brown - seen here covering Hurricane Katrina on the network's NewsNight - worked as an anchor and reporter for ABC News, staying at the station throughout the 90s After the 9/11 broadcast - his first with the network - Brown covered a wide variety of other historic events in real time, including the War on Terrorism, the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster, and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He is seen here covering the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia In September 2004, after four years, CNN suddenly announced Brown would be leaving the network, while he was still under contract. A reason was not given, though many attributed it to being replaced by current primetime juggernaut Anderson Cooper 'Behind the scenes as a boss and a mentor, he accepted nothing less than excellence, and he gave nothing less than endless loyalty in return. 'There's no one like him and he will be deeply missed.' Levinson worked with Brown for four years, right up until his unexpected ouster. A reason for the split was never given, though many at the time attributed it to the then experimental implementation of eventual primetime juggernaut Anderson Cooper into the network's late-night lineup. The New York Times reported at the time that then CNN president Jonathan Klein said the departure was the result of a mutual agreement, and that a recent reshuffle left no room for Brown's show. As part of the change, Cooper's program, still-running Anderson Cooper 360, moved into Brown's old 10pm timeslot. Today, Cooper, 57, is a fixture at the news station, after experiencing a mid-career, meteoric rise much like Brown's. Cooper, in turn, described Brown 'a great writer and broadcaster', as he too offered a tribute as news of his old coworkers death became public. Cooper, in turn, described Brown 'a great writer and broadcaster', as he too offered a tribute as news of his old coworkers death became public Brown, speaking about his 9/11 coverage upon retiring, said 'It captures what television ought to capture - which is the totality of a story - and that one did it all: The strength of the country, the beauty of the day, and the horror of the moment' Brooks briefly worked at PBS after being freed from his CNN contract in 2008, before walking away from broadcasting in 2009. He continued to teach journalism at the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism until 2014. He won three Emmys 'Thoughtful, funny, and diligent,' Cooper, who started at CNN in 2003, said in a statement sent via CNN Sunday. 'He had a truly unique talent and a beautiful way with words.' 'When he was live on air, he just stopped and looked at it, and paused,' added fellow CNN staffer John Vause, who witnessed Brown's iconic 9/11 work firsthand. 'And he shared this moment that everybody was thinking.' Much of the same was seen on social media, including a tweet from Chief Media Analyst Brian Stelter. 'He was one of the greatest anchors in CNN history,' Stelter said of Brown. '"NewsNight," circa 2001 to 2005, was all Aaron: from his thoughtful writing and rigorous questioning, to "the whip" around the world with correspondents, to his trademark preview of the morning papers.' Brown, meanwhile, spoke on his own accomplishments as a newsman after his career came to a close, back in 2009. 'It captures what television ought to capture - which is the totality of a story - and that one did it all,' he said of the September 11 coverage. 'The strength of the country, the beauty of the day, and the horror of the moment.' German police have shot a man dead after he stole a digger and used it to rampage through a quiet town. The man, who has not yet been identified, hijacked the digger from a construction company in the small southern German town of Grunsfeld at around 1:35pm local time before driving it to Tauberbischofsheim, about five miles away. Video footage of the chaos showed the man crashing the yellow digger into a JET petrol station as police appear to fire shots at him. He was hit by gunfire at a car dealership in Tauberbischofsheim and resuscitated, but later died from his injuries. He reportedly damaged several police vehicles, and is said to have seriously injured an officer. Local police later said that while she had been trapped during the rampage, she has since been able to leave the hospital. On X, local police said that there was now no longer any danger to the public following the 'suspected rampage.' Germany has been on high alert for weeks following the terror attack in the city of Magdeburg, in which Saudi doctor Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, 50, smashed his rented SUV into a crowd at the Christmas market. Video footage of the chaos showed the man crashing the yellow digger into a JET petrol station as police appear be firing shots at him He reportedly damaged several police vehicles, and is said to have seriously injured an officer Nine-year-old Andre Gleiner was killed and at least 235 people were injured in the horrifying rampage, dozens of whom are still in serious condition, according to authorities. Police are still puzzling over why Abdulmohsen attacked the market, with the prosecutor indicating that the medic's grievance about how Germany was treating Saudi dissident asylum seekers could be a possible motive. Abdulmohsen - who was arrested beside the battered vehicle - has voiced anti-Islam views, anger at German immigration officials including former Chancellor Angela Merkel and support for far-right narratives on the 'Islamisation' of Europe. Abdulmohsen reportedly willed his entire fortune to the German Red Cross, but did not include any political messages in the document. He was remanded in custody on five counts of murder and several counts of attempted murder as well as causing grievous bodily harm, prosecutors said on Saturday night, but not so far on terrorism-related charges. The 50-year-old is currently being held in a high-security prison near Magdeburg, where is constantly monitored by cameras and has to wear paper clothes 'so that he doesn't hang himself in his cell', according to tabloid Bild. An American Airlines plane was diverted to Pittsburgh after a reported lightening strike. Flight 4642 took off from Columbus, Ohio, for Boston, Massachusetts, at 6.55am EST on Tuesday morning. It was operated by the regional airline Regional Jet. But the plane instead landed in Pittsburgh at 7.58am after the crew reported the aircraft had been hit by lightning. All 74 passengers and crew on board landed safely at the Pittsburgh International Airport, as reported by KDKA journalist Paul Rasmussen. 'They're reporting they were struck by lightening,' said an air control audio shared by the local radio station. After the plane landed, fire crews did not detect visible damage on the aircraft - an Embraer 175 designed for short flights. Regional Jet told DailyMail.com that the flight was diverted 'as a precaution after experiencing a possible lightning strike shortly after departing CMH.' An American Airlines plane was diverted to Pittsburgh after a reported lightening strike. Its trajectory path is shown above All 74 passengers and crew on board landed safely at the Pittsburgh International Airport. Stock photo of an Embraer 175 regional jet 'Flight landed without incident, taxied to the gate on its own power and were swapping to another aircraft to complete the flight to BOS,' the statement added. 'Maintenance is looking at the aircraft now.' It comes after several concerning incidents involving air travel this month. A Delta plane almost collided with a private jet at Los Angeles Airport on Friday. The chartered Embraer E135 jet was carrying the Gonzaga University men's basketball team, and had just landed from Spokane, Washington. The jet was about to cross the runway when controllers noticed the Delta plane hurtling down the path and frantically told the Embraer to halt. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigators have launched a probe into the incident. The family of a British grandmother who has been stranded in a Florida hospital for five weeks after catching Covid and developing pneumonia during a trip of a lifetime have issued an update on her condition. Patricia Bunting, 76, from Wigan, had been on a three week holiday with her grandson and two sons to Disney World when she fell ill and was hospitalised at Orland's Dr P. Phillips Hospital last month. Her family started a GoFundMe earlier this month to raise enough money to bring her back home to the UK in an air ambulance so that she can continue to receive adequate care and be surrounded by her loved ones. This week Patricia's daughter Emma issued a devastating update on her mother's condition as she remains stranded in the US. 'Just wanted to update you all on mum's progress and thank you all so so much for all your kindness, support and generosity', she wrote on the fundraising website. 'My mum is still suffering from severe swelling on her hands, feet and legs.' Emma also explained that her mother's haemoglobin and platelet levels 'still remain on the low side', has 'fluctuating blood pressure' and remains on constant flow oxygen. 'She still isn't yet mobile after being in hospital for five weeks', Emma added. British grandmother Patricia Bunting has been stranded in Florida for five weeks after falling ill with Covid and developing pneumonia Patricia Bunting, 76, from Wigan, had been on a three week holiday with her grandson and two sons to Disney World when she fell ill and was hospitalised at Orland's Dr P. Phillips Hospital last month Patricia's daughter had previously said that the cost of a dedicated air ambulance to bring her mother back home was 130,000. In her latest update Emma said that the family was still working with the hospital and the independent air ambulance companies to 'determine the best options for mum to get home safely'. 'We as a family are desperate to get mum home but she needs to be able to make the long journey home safely. 'It's heartbreaking that she missed Christmas at home with all her loving family and also now new year.' So far, the family has raised 38,368 and has received for than 1,600 donations altogether. Patricia is a former cleaner and factory worker. According to her family she had considered getting health insurance for the trip, but when it was quoted at around 3,000 she decided to go without it. Five days before she was scheduled to fly home on November 3, Patricia passed out in her hotel bathroom and was rushed to hospital. She spent five days in intensive care with Covid, before contracting pneumonia. Patricia also suffered a gastrointestinal bleed and blood clots in her legs. Patricia's family started a GoFundMe earlier this month to raise enough money to bring her back home to the UK in an air ambulance According to Patricia's family, the cost of an air ambulance to transport her back to the UK is around 130,000 According to her family she had considered getting health insurance for the trip, but when it was quoted at around 3,000 she decided to go without it So far, the family has raised 38,368 and has received for than 1,600 donations altogether In a critical condition and too ill to leave hospital, her medical bills are becoming ever more insurmountable by the day. Patricia receives a state pension and since her bus driver husband Joseph died of a heart attack in 1993, she also receives a small widow's pension. Her family said that she was determined to have one final foreign holiday with her grandson William, who is 23 and has autism. The pair were joined on their three-week trip to Walt Disney World in Florida by her unemployed sons Paul, 40, (Emma's twin brother) and David, 42, who both live with their mother in Wigan. Earlier this month a spokesman for Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital described Mrs Bunting's condition as 'serious'. In a statement, the hospital added: 'Although we can't comment on specific patient cases, Orlando Health has a longstanding generous financial assistance program for patients who have limited or no resources to pay for medically necessary services rendered at an Orlando Health facility. 'Orlando is a popular international tourist destination and we encourage all visitors to consider purchasing travel insurance for unexpected, emergency medical expenses.' The UK Foreign Office advises that 'If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.' President Joe Biden is facing reality again as he wraps up his swanky St. Croix vacation and heads back to the United States to serve out the remainder of his term. Biden, 82, along with his daughter Ashley Biden, Hunter and his son Beau and First Lady Jill Biden, spent his traditional five-day New Year's getaway in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The president had little on his public schedule and spent his time basking in the sun at a beachfront villa owned by friends Bill and Connie Neville. The home is listed for $900 per night on popular rental app VRBO. The Bidens have stayed in the Neville's home for the past two years and frequented the beautiful ocean view property when Joe served as vice president as well. It's estimated that Biden has spend nearly 40 percent of his entire four-year presidency on vacation. The St. Croix trip was his 570th day off, according to Fox News. He is heading back to his home in Wilmington, Delaware, to spend New Year's Eve before going to Camp David for what could be a final time before he exits the White House. Trump takes office in just 20 days on January 20, 2025 when he'll be sworn in at the Capitol. Biden broke out of his vacation haze to address the death of former President Jimmy Carter, 100, on Sunday. He made some not-so-subtle digs at President-elect Donald Trump as he spoke about the life of the late president on Sunday night from St. Croix. Biden reiterated several times that the 100-year-old Carter stood for 'decency.' He stayed at a beachfront villa owned by friends Bill and Connie Neville Biden and Jill shake hands with Delegate to the House of Representatives Stacey Plaskett, Democrat from the Virgin Islands, before boarding Air Force One The Bidens stayed at the private home of Bill and Connie Neville, who also list their Virgin Island property to rent publicly 'Can you imagine Jimmy Carter walking by someone who needs something and just keeps walking?' Biden asked. 'Can you imagine Jimmy Carter referring to someone by the way they look or the way they talk?' 'I can't, I can't,' Biden said. During his almost 10 years in politics, Trump has frequently made fun of opponents, including the way they look and how they talk. Trump's mimicked Biden's stutter on a number of occasions. Speaking to reporters, Biden pressed that Americans would 'do well to try and be a little more like Jimmy Carter' as he alluded to the current state of toxic politics. 'In today's world some look at Jimmy Carter and see a man of a bygone era, with honesty and character, faith and humility... But I don't think it's bygone era. I see a man not only of our time but for all times,' Biden argued. Biden boards Air Force One, en route to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden speak with a man before they board Air Force One 'Someone who embodied the most fundamental human values we can never let slip away,' Biden continued. 'Although sometimes it seems like it is,' he said as an aside. The president spent nine minutes in front of the cameras, coughing as he got started. He spoke about how Carter was a 'statesman and humanitarian' but also a good friend to Biden and the first lady. He is heading back to his home in Wilmington, Delaware , to spend New Year's Eve before going to Camp David for a final time before he exits the White House Biden disembarks Air Force One, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with his grandson Beau President Joe Biden made some not-so-subtle digs at President-elect Donald Trump as he spoke about the life of the late President Jimmy Carter Sunday night from St. Croix 'I've been hanging out with Jimmy Carter for over 50 years it dawned on me,' the 82-year-old president said. 'I've always been proud to say, and he used to kid me about it, that I was the first national figure to endorse him in 1976 when he ran for president,' Biden recalled. Biden had entered the U.S. Senate, at age 30, four years earlier. 'There was an overwhelming reason for it,' Biden said of Carter endorsement. 'His character.' Carter would go on to win the White House in 1976 - but, like Biden, would only serve one term. President Jimmy Carter is dead at the age of 100. President Joe Biden made brief comments about his friend Sunday night from St. Croix telling reporters: 'I've been hanging out with Jimmy Carter for over 50 years' President Jimmy Carter is photographed jogging on the South Lawn of the White House during his one term in office. President Joe Biden spoke of Carter's many accomplishments - a bulk of which happened after he left office 'What I find extraordinary about Jimmy Carter though, is that millions of people around the world, all over the world, feel they lost a friend as well, even though they never met him,' Biden stated. 'And that's because Jimmy Carter lived a life measured not by words but by his deeds.' Biden spoke of Carter's many accomplishments - a bulk of which occurred after his term in office - including helping eradicate disease around the world, advance civil rights and promote 'free and fair elections around the world.' He also called attention to Carter's Habitat for Humanity work, building houses for the less fortunate. 'He built housing for the homeless with his own hands,' the president regaled. Biden also spoke of an issue that tied the Biden and Carter families together: cancer. 'Jimmy Carter was just as courageous in his battle against cancer as he was in everything in his life,' the president said. When Beau Biden, the president's son, died of glioblastoma in 2015, Biden said that 'Jimmy and Rosalynn were there to help us heel.' 'Jimmy knew the ravages of the disease too well,' the president continued. 'He lost his father, his brother, his sister, to this terrible disease.' President Jimmy Carter made a final public appearance alongside dignitaries including every modern first lady at his wife Rosalynn Carter's funeral in November 2023. He died at age 100 on Sunday Former first ladies (from left) Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama and Melania Trump appeared together at the funeral service for Rosalynn Carter in November 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Jimmy Carter will have services in both Atlanta and Washington, D.C. 'So when Jimmy was diagnosed we did our best to comfort him,' Biden recalled. 'We met with him down in Plains, anyway,' Biden said segueing, realizing he was going too in-depth on the subject. Carter's cancer battle also took place in 2015. 'We talked and shared our beliefs that as a nation we have the talent, we have the talent and the resources to one day end cancer as we know it, if we make the investments,' Biden said. 'He believed that like I do.' Biden said that the Carters had a 'love affair for the ages.' The former first lady died in November 2023, with Jimmy Carter making a final public appearance alongside other dignitaries - including every modern first lady - at the memorial service. 'The one thing I admired most about him. ... He really did believe this and I do as well, that everybody deserves an even shot. No guarantees, just a shot,' Biden said. 'Everybody deserves a shot.' 'He gave an awful lot of people a chance,' the president continued. 'I was an admirer. I consider myself a friend.' 'I think he's happy, I think he's happy with Rosalynn,' Biden also offered. The president confirmed that there would be a 'major service' for the Democrat in Washington, D.C. There's also expected to be a public service in Atlanta, Georgia, where the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. It will likely mark Biden's final time to host a major political gathering in Washington ahead of Trump's January 20th inauguration. It was the great Pomeranian escape! Surveillance footage showed the moment 18 puppies fled their kennel in Jaguarana, a city in the southeastern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. The owner, Renan Borean, was home alone with the pooches and was seen feeding them when the gate suddenly, but slowly, opened. The dogs made a beeline for the gate and rushed out to the street as Borean frantically raced after them. He carried an armful of dogs back to the home while the others returned in an orderly fashion. 'I picked up the most stubborn ones and the others came when I called them. I thought it would be worse,' Borean told Brazilian news outlet G1. 'Then I told my wife and even joked, 'We do everything for our pets and at the first opportunity they run away.' Renan Borean was providing treats to his 18 Pomeranians moments before the gate at his home suddenly opened up and the dogs ran onto the street The Pomeranians were caught on video escaping a property where their kennel is located in Santa Catarina, Brazil on December 19 Renan Borean carries several of the Pomeranians back to his home, where he and his wife operate a kennel The incident took place on December 17 and went viral with 1.9 million views on social media as of Tuesday. 'I was there on a beautiful sunny day giving treats to my little dogs and thinking 'I'm sure these ones will never abandon me, they are completely in love with me', Borean said. Borean's wife, Gislane Dutra, told the outlet that gate was blown open by strong winds after her daughter failed to close it correctly after they walked out of the home earlier in the day. 'They were there because their yard was undergoing maintenance. They stay in a much larger space, with grass,' Dutra said. 'It was sunbathing time. They had already been fed earlier, they were just offering them some snacks a little earlier.' The woman who was set on fire and burned to death on a New York City subway car has been identified as Debrina Kawam of New Jersey. Shocking footage stunned the Big Apple as Kawam, 57, was seen engulfed in flames in horror scenes on the train near Coney Island on December 22. She was allegedly set on fire by illegal immigrant Sebastian Zepeta, who cops say used a lighter before fanning the flames with his shirt. Zepeta, 33, is facing murder and arson charges following the horror incident. Officials used fingerprint data, dental records and DNA evidence to identify Kawam, and said she was believed to have been homeless. She was originally from Tom's River, New Jersey. Kawam was reportedly sleeping on the subway car around 7:30am at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn when she was set ablaze. The footage of the moments after Kawam was set on fire went viral as it showed an NYPD officer walking past the fire while a man, allegedly Zepeta, watched on. NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told a press conference that officers who responded were not aware the suspect was on the scene at the time. The woman who was set on fire and burned to death on a New York City subway car has been identified as Debrina Kawam of New Jersey The woman who was set on fire and burned to death on a New York City subway car (seen in footage) has been identified as Debrina Kawam, 57, of New Jersey She was allegedly set on fire by illegal immigrant Sebastian Zepeta Hours after the shocking death, the NYPD released images of the suspect, showing him watching his victim burning to death before he casually walks away from the scene. Zapeta eventually boarded the F line again later in the day, and he was arrested on the subway after he was flagged by high schoolers whop recognized him from the police images. NYPD officers alerted MTA, who stopped the train eight stops north from the sighting at Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan. Cops boarded the subway and detained Zapeta as he sat in a busy carriage, as caught in dramatic videos shared online. Police Commissioner Tisch praised the police response to the heinous incident as 'an example of great technology and even greater old fashioned police work' during a press conference on Sunday night. However, after footage of the horror incident went viral, many questioned the response of the NYPD as an officer appeared to do nothing while Kawam burned in the subway car. Shocked social media users blasted the police response - describing the behavior of cops caught on camera as 'cowardly' and 'shameful' while calling for them to be named or fired. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is shown sitting on a subway bench watching as the woman he set fire to burns alive. In front of him is an NYPD officer who walked past him, unaware he was responsible for the sickening crime Zepeta, 33, is facing murder and arson charges following the horror incident 'Police officer walks by. Doesn't take his jacket off to smother the flames. Not his problem. Guess he doesn't get paid too much. Can we find out who he is? His behavior is shameful,' one person wrote on X. DailyMail.com has asked for comment on why cops appear to have strolled past the burning woman several times without helping. Condemnation of the response from officials was led on Tuesday by New York Congressman Ritchie Torres, who slammed fellow Democrat New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The same day Kawam was identified, Hochul shared a tweet boasting of 'dedicating our efforts to putting more money in your pockets and building an Empire State where everyone has an opportunity to succeed.' Torres said in response: 'On the same day the murder victim of the subway fire, Debrina Kawam (61) was finally identified, Governor Hochul feels the need to take a victory lap. ''Mission accomplished' is the ultimate form of gaslighting.' Condemnation of the response from officials was led on Tuesday by New York Congressman Ritchie Torres, who slammed fellow Democrat New York Governor Kathy Hochul The incident quickly became part of the national debate over the dramatic rise in crimes being committed by illegal immigrants in the United States. ICE officials said Zepeta entered the US illegally from Guatemala in 2018 and was deported, but re-entered the country at some point after. New York City Mayor Eric Adams came out after Zepeta's arrest to call for federal prosecutors to charge him alongside state charges. 'Lighting another human being on fire and watching them burn alive reflects a level of evil that cannot be tolerated,' he said in a statement. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez countered that he wanted the case to stay under state jurisdiction. 'Murder in the first degree carries the possibility of life without parole,' he said, pointing out that was 'more significant in state court than currently in federal court.' 'We believe very strongly that this case belongs in the state court,' he said. 'We have a very strong working relationship with our federal partners and of course we will always do what is in the best interests' of the case. A Georgia state judge has taken his own life inside his courtroom. The body of Judge Stephen Yekel was discovered inside Effingham County State Court on Tuesday morning. He is believed to have shot himself dead. Yekel, 74, had recently lost a bid for re-election and was found by a deputy on what would have been his last day on the bench, WSAV reports. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now probing the horrific incident. Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie said Yekel was discovered around 10am, but it appeared he had shot himself late Monday night or early Tuesday. Yekel was appointed to the state court in 2022. He had tried to resign from his position, but was prevented from doing so by Governor Brian Kemp. McDuffie said he understood Yekel had sent a note to the Governor's office regarding the resignation, but did not disclose its contents. The courtroom has been closed and will resume normal business on January 2. Georgia judge Stephen Yekel has taken his own life inside his courtroom The father-of-four was a former assistant district attorney in Chatham County and practicing lawyer with more than 45 years of experience. Pictured: Yekel (center) with his sons (L-R) Sean, Brett, Steve and Blake and Governor Brian Kemp 'The Effingham County Board of Commissioners and staff are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Judge Steve Yekel at the Effingham County Courthouse today and we offer our condolences to his family and loved ones,' a statement from the county read. Father-of-four Yekel was a former assistant district attorney in Chatham County and practicing lawyer with more than 45 years of experience. He previously held roles as a special agent with the state's Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Unit and was an investigator at the Cobb County District Attorney's Office. Yekel's resignation letter to Governor Kemp cites his disappointment with low turnout for the election he lost. In the event a judge resigns, a new one would be appointed by the Governor rather than voted in. Yekel wrote the position is, 'too important to be decided by only 6% of eligible voters'. But Kemp rejected the resignation request, stating he wishes to maintain, 'respect for the will of the people of Effingham County.' In May, Yekel's ex-wife Lisa Yekel shared a post on Facebook which outlined several issues reportedly plaguing his re-election campaign. She dismissed rumors their divorce the year before was due to infidelity and denied that he had asked a police officer not to give him a citation following a car accident. Yekel had recently lost a bid for re-election and was found by a deputy on what would have been his last day on the bench. Pictured: Yekel with Governor Brian Kemp Yekel was discovered inside the Effingham County state court room He had lost a bid for re-election earlier this year and had asked Governor Brian Kemp if he could resign but the request was denied 'His best friend who passed away recently had Steve's car in his shop for repairs and loaned him a vehicle to use, which is the reason he was not driving his car when he was involved in the accident,' she wrote. 'He was on the way home after visiting our daughter who had just moved into her apartment in Pooler. 'The Steve Yekel I know never would have asked the police officer not to give him a citation. He has always taken responsibility for his actions.' She also hinted at financial problems the couple had faced over a failed daycare business. 'He did everything he could to avoid bankruptcy,' she added. 'Unfortunately, I had used his life savings to keep the daycare open. 'In my defense, I was too lenient on parents who couldn't pay their bills and they eventually left owing thousands of dollars, again that's my fault, not Steve's.' She concluded the post by stating her ex-husband was, 'one of the most respectful, honest, and caring people I know' and urged people to re-elect him. A profile in the Effingham Herald about Yekel's campaign states that he and his ex-wife moved to the area in 1999. Judge Steve Yekel being sworn in with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie said he was found between 10am and 10.30am on Tuesday The couple share two children Sean and Ashleigh. Yekel also was the father of sons Blake and Brett from a previous marriage. 'Throughout my service, I've upheld the principles of dignity, respect, and impartiality, treating all individuals, whether represented by legal counsel or not, with fairness and equality,' Yekel said in a post about his campaign. Yekel ultimately lost his re-election bid to Judge Melissa M Calhoun. The late judge was also facing a lawsuit from court employee Lisa Crawford who claims she was wrongfully terminated from her position by Yekel, WTOC reports. Crawford was seeking $10,000 in damages amid claims Yekel fired her in order to bring in his own staff when he assumed office. An email reportedly submitted as part of the lawsuit from Yekel to Crawford accused her of being part of a 'conspiracy scheme' to help people charged with DUI reduce or dismiss their charges. Outside the courtroom, Yekel was a little league baseball coach, vice president and legal counsel for Effingham Heroes Inc. and head of the usher team at Compassion Christian Church. DailyMail.com has contacted Governor Kemp for comment. 'While we are unable to provide comment on an open investigation, Judge Yekels family and loved ones are in all of our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,' Kemp's office told WTOC. The national suicide and crisis helpline is available 24/7 at 988. Team GB's Thomas Digby has penned a heartbreaking message about losing his mother to cancer on the build up to one of the most important moment's in his rowing career bringing home gold in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The 26-year-old, from Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire, spoke candidly today about the loss of his mother and the time he spent away from home while she battled her illness. Reflecting on his Olympic win ahead of the New Year, Thomas suggested that while many people expected his triumph to be an 'ecstatic feeling', it was more melancholic for him. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: 'There were so many moments over the course of losing Mum that I wondered whether I should quit - whether I was capable of being good enough whilst under the stress. 'Whether it was worth missing more of the precious time we had. 'I was in Sierra Nevada, the toughest altitude camp of the year, when I got the final call to come home. I could have been at home.' However, further down his post, Thomas explains how he saw the Olympics experience through because it is what both his mother and father would have wanted - and that she 'laid down a pretty high bar for stepping up to the challenge'. Thomas' mother passed away on December 4 last year. Tom Digby posted this image on his Instagram today alongside the emotional post - he is pictured here (with his hand in the air) after winning gold at the Paris Olympics Thomas Digby, 26, spoke candidly about the loss of his mother and the time he spent away from home while she battled her illness Great Britain's gold medallists (front) Sholto Carnegie, Rory Gibbs, Morgan Bolding, Jacob Dawson, Charles Elwes, Tom Digby, James Rudkin, Tom Ford and Harry Brightmore pose on the podium with Netherlands' silver medallists (R) and the USA's bronze medallists The Team GB rower would watch the world-renowned Regatta with his family every year and even went on to win four times at the prestigious event. Thomas joined the GB Rowing team in 2021 around the same time his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was an invaluable source of support to Thomas and watched him become a double world champion before she passed away. Thomas explained how it was 'glorified in our culture' to 'persevere' through life's personal challenges, as that is what 'champions' do. But, as someone who did that, Thomas admitted it was 'not always the right choice'. 'I believe it is far harder to be there at every moment for someone, to see their weaknesses and fears constantly, and to put your own needs aside, he added. Pictured: Tom Digby's emotional post on Instagram today as he reflected on the loss of his mother Thomas explains in his post how he saw the Olympics through because it is what both his mother and father would have wanted GB's men's eight stormed home at Paris 2024 to add the Olympic title to world honours Great Britain's Sholto Carnegie, Rory Gibbs, Morgan Bolding, Jacob Dawson, Charles Elwes, Tom Digby, James Rudkin, Tom Ford and Cox Harry Brightmore celebrate winning Ggold 'You make the hard choices, and at the end of it all, no one thanks you, gives you a medal (literally), or even makes you feel seen.' He went on to say how 'throwing his emotion into rowing', although incredibly difficult, was somewhat easier for him. 'I say this as a memo of respect for all those who dont feel seen, have suffered at the hands of terminal illness of a loved one, and feel more isolated from the world on the other side of it,' he said. 'To care in that way for someone you love is one of the biggest ways you can step up in life.' Thomas was part of the men's eight who stormed to gold at Paris 2024, to bring Team GB's rowing tally to eight medals. Fellow rower Rory Gibbs said at the time: ''My ears are popping, my senses are all shot. You're so numb that you don't really know what's going on and you don't really care what's going on. 'The men's eight is such a powerful boat and you work as one machine. Everyone cycles in and out with a bit of an adrenaline rush. 'For me, with 500 metres to go, I smelt blood and was really cooking. But 250 metres later I was completely gone. You grind to a halt. It's quite a euphoric feeling.' A new report confirms that Dr. Jill Biden's feud with Vice President Kamala Harris has continued through the post-election period. The Wall Street Journal chronicled the final months of the Biden presidency in a story Monday, with White House aides describing the general vibe at the White House as 'depressing' and 'draining.' And the misery extends to the top. Since Harris' November 5th election loss, the relationship between President Joe Biden and Dr. Biden and Harris and her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, 'has at times been frosty,' the paper said, 'in private settings.' Sources pointed out that Dr. Biden has long disliked Harris due to her ravaging Biden on the debate stage back in June of 2019 - during the first Democratic debate of the 2020 cycle. Harris' memorable debate performance was attributed to her hammering Biden for being against busing policies that helped desegregate schools. The ire between the two women has also spilled out into plain sight. During the president and vice president's first public appearance after the Democrats handed the White House back to President-elect Donald Trump, Dr. Biden sat stone-faced next to Harris and Emhoff. A new report confirms that Dr. Jill Biden's (right) feud with Vice President Kamala Harris (center) has continued through the post-election period, with sources saying things are 'frosty' between the Bidens and Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (right) THE ORIGINAL SIN: The feud is now five and a half years old, with Dr. Biden disliking how then Sen. Kamala Harris (right) went after former Vice President Joe Biden (left) over the issue of busing on June 27, 2019 - the first 2020 Democratic primary debate The event was the traditional Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, which put the first and second couples together just six days after Harris' loss. On Election Day, Dr. Biden sported a red pantsuit - the traditional color for Republicans - which led to speculation from the MAGA crowd that she didn't really want Harris to win. One Fox News host, Emily Compagno, even went as far to suggest that the first lady voted for Trump due to the hue of her outfit. That is extremely unlikely - but it was still interpreted as shade. Earlier this month at the Kennedy Center Honors, those watching the presidential box noticed that neither Biden acknowledged Harris or Emhoff when the crowd stood to welcome them to the Kennedy Center. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates pushed back to the Journal and denied any chill in the relationship between the president and vice president, while Harris' spokesperson Kirsten Allen said Biden and Haris 'have a close working relationship and have developed a friendship that extends to both of their spouses.' A spokesperson for the East Wing additionally denied the Journal's reporting to DailyMail.com about the 'frosty' relationship between the first lady and Harris pointing to the extensive campaigning Dr. Biden did for Harris ahead of Election Day. Sources told DailyMail.com earlier this month that the first lady is vengeful over what happened to her husband. Vice President Kamala Harris (left) was seated next to Dr. Jill Biden (right) at the annual Veterans Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery six days after losing the election. Wall Street Journal sources suggest the relationship is even more 'frosty' behind-the-scenes THROWING SHADE? Jill Biden wore a red pantsuit on Election Day - a color typically reserved for Republicans. The bold choice prompted a Fox News host to suggest that she voted for President-elect Donald Trump over her husband's replacement, Vice President Kamala Harris After his disastrous June 27 debate against Trump, top party leaders pressured 82-year-old Biden to bow out. He did so on July 21 - endorsing Harris a few hours later. 'Jill views Democrats on Capitol Hill, the [wider] party, the Obamas, staff inside and outside the White House, the media, and all of Washington, D.C. with such misguided resentment that I can't imagine she [isn't] encouraging [Joe] to burn the whole thing down, despite his better judgment,' one insider said. And Biden's inner thoughts about the race are now spilling out. The Washington Post and then the Journal reported that behind closed doors Biden is telling people that he believes he could have won had he stayed in. The president isn't criticizing the Harris campaign's effort, the reports said, but rather has been pointing out that he beat Trump once before. The political climate was vastly different in 2020, with Trump's mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic front-and-center. Four years later, American voters remembered the 2019 Trump economy fondly, while incumbents around the globe were being voted out of power due to economies still sagging thanks to the pandemic. High taxes and red tape under the SNP have inflicted a decade of mismanagement on Scotlands economy, one of the countrys most successful businessmen has said. In a scathing attack, Sir Tom Hunter said the politicians dont get it and the Scottish Government should get out of the way more often. There has never been an economy that has taxed its way to growth, Sir Tom said. His comments came as MSPs were told higher income and property taxes are damaging recruitment efforts north of the Border. Representatives of Scotlands vital financial services industry warned Scotland had hit a tipping point because of the tax gap with the rest of the UK, making financial centres like Leeds, Belfast and Manchester more attractive to top earners. Scottish Financial Enterprise chief executive Sandy Begbie said: In our sector, to come to Scotland is a much, much harder sell now than it has previously been. Sir Tom, 63, a millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist who made his fortune in retail before expanding into property and technology, is not aligned with a political party. However, he has become a pungent critic of the widening the tax gap under the SNP. Sir Tom Hunter said the Scottish Government should get out of the way more often Scotland's ferry debacle is one of the many expensive projects undertaken under the SNP The proposed budget for 2025-26 would see any Scottish worker earning more than 30,318 pay more income tax from April than if they lived elsewhere in the UK. Someone on a 50,000 salary will pay 1,528 more compared to the rest of the UK, rising to 3,332 at 100,000 and 5,963 at 150,000. Business leaders fear this tax divergence, which includes a Scotland-only 45p income tax rate between 75,001 and 125,410, makes attracting and keeping senior staff harder. Speaking to the Times, Sir Tom said: For Scotland over the past ten years I think theres been financial mismanagement of the Scottish economy, because the politicians dont get it. It is businesses who want to grow, who want to employ another person, who pay their taxes, that pay for the NHS, that pay for the education system. We need to have a thriving economy if we want to have the civil society. It really frustrates me that successive governments dont realise weve got to encourage business, because that way well get the tax-take up, and therefore we can invest in our public services. He said John Swinney appeared to understand business better, but more must be done to spur private investment, including cutting the burden of red tape. Sir Tom added: Somebody should be looking and just say, Right, hang on a minute who benefits from this regulation and why is it there? Can we get rid of it? Can we simplify business? Then I actually want government to get out of the way. In recent evidence to Holyroods finance committee, Mr Begbie also warned Scotlands high property sales tax may put people off moving to Scotland. He said: You pay significantly more in Scotland than you will pay elsewhere, above a certain level. For people who are coming to Scotland to take up these high-paid and well-paid jobs, that is a significant difference. It can be tens of thousands. In Scotland, buyers pay Land and Building Transaction Tax (LBTT) on homes above 145,000, starting at 2 per cent and rising in steps to 12 per cent above 750,000. In England, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) on residential properties starts at 250,000. Someone buying a 750,000 home in England would pay 25,000 SDLT, while the LBTT bill for the same value home would be almost twice as much - 48,350 - in Scotland. Tory finance spokesman Craig Hoy said: SNP ministers had the chance to undo the damage done by their punishing tax rises in Decembers budget, but they chose to deliver more of the same. Its clear the Nationalists have no vision for the future of the country, its economy or the business environment and John Swinney is flat out of ideas. Business minister Richard Lochhead said: Under John Swinneys leadership as first minister weve built a firm economic foundation over the past year with steady growth and rising wages. The draft Scottish budget 2025-26 outlines significant support for business growth and enhanced measures to attract private investment in Scotland. This includes a competitive non-domestic rates regime, including a freeze to the basic property rate, delivering the lowest such rate in the UK for the seventh year in a row, and maintaining the lowest property tax rate in the UK for over 95 per cent of nondomestic properties in Scotland. More taxpayers moved to Scotland than left in recent years. Nearly 700 illegal migrants were convicted of crimes this year after being released from detention and tracked using technology including an app and GPS devices. The convictions included two for homicide, four for kidnapping, 10 for sex offenses, six for weapons charges, and 65 for assault. Those convicted had been released into the U.S. under the 'Alternatives to Detention - Intensive Supervision Appearance' program, known as ATD-ISAP. A total of around 180,000 migrants are covered by the program which includes being being monitored using self check-in on an app, a GPS device on the ankle or wrist, or telephone calls. The figures emerged as it was also revealed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has scrapped two related programs giving social services to illegal immigrants who have been released under ATD-ISAP. In May, 16 members of Congress including Byron Donalds, the Florida Republican, wrote to ICE seeking more information about the program. In a response, shared with Fox News, ICE said it was only funded for 41,500 beds for illegal immigrants. It therefore has a 'docket' of millions of 'non-citizens released from detention with final orders of removal as well as non-citizens who have been released and are waiting for an immigration court hearing.' A migrant climbs the border fence to cross into the U.S. near Tijuana, Mexico The letter said: 'As of November 20, 2024, there were more than 7.7 million non-citizens on the non-detained docket.' It said criminal non-citizens were required to report at least every two months for the first year of their release. Immigration violators without criminal records or other 'derogatory information' have to report every four months, and asylum seekers once every six months. Those covered by the ATD-ISAP program have an 'additional layer of supervision' which 'might include daily check-ins or travel restrictions.' The figures it provided for convictions also showed those released into the U.S. under the program committed 17 offences of fraud and forgery, and 31 of larceny in 2024. Migrants cross the Rio Grande into the United States in Eagle Pass, Texas as seen from Piedras Negras, Coahuila state, Mexico on August 4, 2023 Byron Donalds wrote to ICE to get more information about a tracking program A group of migrants wait at a border point in Juarez City, Chihuahua, Mexico, 18 December 2024 In its response ICE also detailed the closure of the Wraparound Stabilization Service (WSS), a program for illegal immigrants that started four years ago. It provided 'psychosocial and behavioral health support for vulnerable participants and their families.' Despite the 'immense cost' of the program it had not achieved significantly higher compliance by migrants with the court system. The letter said: 'The challenge with the WSS was its immense cost with little improvement.' It was' not cost effective enough to continue paying for these services when they did not benefit ICE or help the agency further its mission.' As Joe Biden's term drew to a close ICE scrapped two programs to save money President-elect Donald Trump has called for mass deportations of illegal migrants in the U.S. To save money ICE also stopped the Young Adult Case Management (YACMP) program which started in 2023 and was set up in 16 cities. It gave legal help and social services referrals to migrants aged 18 and 19. The letter said it was ended because of 'fiscal limitations' and because it did not 'align with' ICE"s mission or priorities.' The agency added: 'In short,(we) took steps to realign or stop using programs to address the budget challenges facing the agency.' A group of adult and child migrants are smuggled at the Tijuana-San Diego border A California national guard vehicle stands near the wall on the United States and Mexico border in San Diego, California, U.S. December 5, 2024 Migrants gather near the border wall close to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico on December 19, 2024 ICE also gave figures for compliance for the ATD-ISAP tracing program. It said 98.6 percent of migrants being tracking appeared at court hearings overall, and 90.4 for their final hearings. The average length of time they were in the monitoring program was 512 days. A family is 'overjoyed' after three of their seven stolen lurcher puppies were found today - but the hunt continues for the other four. The five-week-old dogs were reported missing from Shroton in Dorset after callous raiders broke into a building between 10.50pm and 11.10pm on Saturday. Police have arrested a 28-year-old man from East Dorset and a 22-year-old woman from Wimborne on suspicion of burglary. They have been released on bail and inquiries are ongoing, the force said. On Monday, officers shared a photograph of the puppies which are still reliant on their mother to feed and survive. A chilling CCTV image shared on Facebook by the 'devastated' owner shows the moment the suspects broke into the property. In the picture a man can be seen striding across the room where the puppies are kept holding a torch in one hand and an unknown object in the other. Pc Sebastian Haggett, of Dorset Police's rural crime team, said: 'Whilst the family is overjoyed to have three of the puppies home, we are desperately trying to locate the other four. Three of sever lurcher puppies stolen just days after Christmas have been found. The puppies were stolen from a property in Shroton, Dorset The five-week-old dogs were reported missing from Shroton in Dorset after callous raiders broke into a building between 10.50pm and 11.10pm on Saturday In a chilling CCTV image shared on Facebook the suspect can be seen striding across the room where the puppies are kept holding a torch in one hand and an unknown object in the other 'Should you become aware of their location we would urge you to get in contact. Due to the large public attention on this matter, it may be that these puppies are discarded and we ask the public to remain vigilant and get in contact with any possible information. 'We will relentlessly pursue this matter and this investigation demonstrates the best of multiple policing teams working together to tackle suspected rural crime. 'We thank the public for sharing our appeal and helping it get widespread attention. Let's get these missing puppies home.' Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240197969. On Monday Police said: 'The family involved in this reported theft are devastated and we wish to do all we can to get these family pets home.' An image posted on Facebook by the owner of the puppies has been widely shared online and has received more than 500 comments from alarmed well-wishers. One person said: 'Cant believe someone would do that, lowest of the low!!! I hope they get found'. Another added: 'This is awful. I really hope they return to you. Why are people so cruel to do this?' 'Disgusting behaviour! Poor puppies,' a third commented. Former Eminem collaborator Joe Budden has been charged with lewdness - after the 44-year-old rapper was allegedly caught by his neighbor standing nude in the hallway of his New Jersey apartment building. The lyricist-turned-podcaster was cuffed after being turned in by the neighbor, who saw the unsanctioned display in footage obtained from a Ring doorbell camera. The footage showed the father-of-one fully naked, cops in Edgewater township said - releasing a statement Monday outlining the incident. It occurred on December 4 and was even mentioned by Budden himself on his podcast, where he cryptically told his co-hosts he 'sleepwalked somewhere [he] shouldn't have sleepwalked.' 'You know how I sleep butta** naked... Good naked sleepwalking. I just did it again,' Budden continued on his eponymous program. 'Nobody could go through this stuff but me. Its only me. So you gotta deal with what comes with that. You wouldve never guessed it.' Days later, on December 10, the hip hop B-lister tweeted: 'Im dealing with a personal family matter, pls allow me to do so personally,' before disappearing from the airwaves for several days. He has since returned. Meanwhile, he is also seen in a newly released mug shot, glaring at the camera. Budden is set to appear in court on January 16, the Edgewater Police Department said - as reports began to emerge of Budden's alleged misconduct. Former Eminem collaborator Joe Budden - seen here on the set of his eponymous podcast - has been charged with lewdness, cops said this week The charges stems from an incident at the rapper's apartment building in Edgewater (seen here), across the river from Manhattan in New Jersey 'At approximately 7:21am ET, the Edgewater Police were dispatched to an apartment complex for the report from a resident that a man was standing outside of their apartment door completely naked,' the police statement read. 'The caller recognized the man as a neighbor, Joseph Budden Jr.,' it alleged, using the rapper's full name. 'The caller was alerted to Budden by their doorbell camera,' cops revealed. 'The video depicted Budden attempting to enter a code into the door keypad several times before reentering his own residence across the hall.' An investigation ensued, leading to Budden's arrest. Once booked, he was charged with lewdness, Edgewater Police Chief Donald Martin confirmed - warning that the charges were just accusations until Budden is proven guilty. The charge, he said, stems from 'sexual misconduct or indecency in public,' and carries the potential for a six-month jail sentence and a $1,000 fine. Budden, who famously fell out with Eminem not long after signing to Shady Records in 2011, has not yet commented on the looming case. A post on his social media show him seemingly living life as usual, with one published around 2pm Tuesday, New Year's Eve, showing him sporting shades with no written caption. Budden is seen glaring in a newly released mug shot, released along with a statement outlining the charges against him and alleged incident. His lawyer claimed it was only made public because of Buddens 'race and celebrity status' Post on Budden's social media show him living life as usual, with one published around 2pm Tuesday showing him sporting shades with no written caption - just a series of cryptic emojis The incident was mention by Budden on his podcast earlier this month, where he cryptically told his co-hosts he 'sleepwalked somewhere [he] shouldn't have sleepwalked' It did include a series of emojiis - a smiley face with sunglasses, a pair of hands shaped into a heart, and a closed fist - though it is unclear if they came in reference to the case. Moreover, since returning to the podcast, Budden's show has been taping at a different location - not its usual studio in Edgewater. While Budden has kept relatively mum about the incident, his attorney aired the rapper's distaste in a statement, telling TMZ Tuesday, 'Mr. Budden is saddened by Police Chief Martin's press release. 'Mr. Budden has been waiting weeks for his cross complaints to be processed which include substantially more serious charges including possible felony charges against the persons behind these charges against him,' Hackensack-based lawyer Nima Ameri said. 'The Chief has in our opinion sat on those but instead used his time to gain some free publicity for himself. Chief Martin should seek publicity by doing notable policing not inflaming disorderly person allegations.' 'His choice to single out Mr. Budden in our opinion is self motivated and based off of Mr. Buddens race and celebrity status,' she added. Back in April, Budden bragged about grossing upwards of $7 million during his time as a podcaster, which began in 2015. He claimed to have pocketed an estimated $4 million during that time - after the show was adopted by Spotify. 'Early on we were doing it for free,' Budden said. Days later, on December 10, the hip hop B-lister tweeted: 'Im dealing with a personal family matter, pls allow me to do so personally,' before disappearing from the airwaves for several days He has since returned, and is set to appear in court on January 16, the Edgewater Police Department said Back in 2022, Budden claimed that Eminem's influence over him and other rappers detracted from their own talents. The two are seen together shortly before their falling out, in 2011 Back in 2022, Budden claimed that Eminem's influence over him and other rappers detracted from their own talents. 'Whatever tension exists between me and my brothers solely exists because of how all of us view Em,' he said, four years after the Eminem-run rap group he belonged to, Slaughterhouse, broke up. 'I just think the group could do better without him. I thought that we were better than him. 'I had always been in control of my music. When we did all the music, we couldnt hold it...By the time it came back, it was different. It wasnt the same.' He went on to assert the beats provided by Shady Records simply 'werent for Slaughterhouse.' He is due back in court next month. The Biden administration was handed a big defeat after a military court ruled against plans to throw out plea deals for the September 11, 2001 terrorist 'masterminds.' Now, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and his accomplices - Walid Bin Attash and Mustafa al-Hawasawi - could be spared the death penalty. The military appeals court reportedly published its ruling on Monday evening, which opens the door to the plea deals being finalized. Months ago, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin dramatically revoked the proposed plea deals for the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attacks following blowback. The Biden administration had struck a deal with Mohammed and his two accomplices to get life sentences in prison without the prospect of the death penalty in return for a guilty plea. But it triggered widespread outrage from 9/11 victims' families and lawmakers. As a result, Austin placed the blame for the plea deal on retired Brigadier General Susan K Escallier - whom he fired form the case and took it over himself. Announcing the revocation of the plea deal, Austin said that the high stakes nature of the case means 'the responsibility for such a decision should rest with me.' He added: 'Effective immediately, in the exercise of my authority, I hereby withdraw from the three pretrial agreements that you signed on July 31, 2024.' This Saturday March 1, 2003, shows Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, the alleged Sept. 11 mastermind, shortly after his capture during a raid in Pakistan Brigadier General (ret.) Susan K Escallier (left) offered the three suspects the plea deals Wednesday. She has now been taken off the case by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (right) The plea deal announcement was the culmination of two years of negotiations between prosecutors and defense attorneys. The case has been bogged down in pre-trial hearings since 2012. All three suspects have been held in Guantanamo Bay since the early 2000s. News of Wednesday's plea deal left families of many of the 3,000 murdered in the September 2001 terror attacks 'deeply troubled.' Some were angered that the option to execute the suspected terrorists had been removed. And many said they feared the deal means they'd never find out who was really behind the attacks on New York, Washington DC and Pennsylvania, amid suspicions that Saudi Arabia was deeply-involved in the terror spectacular. 9/11 Justice President Brett Eagleson told DailyMail.com in a statement that his group remains furious at the administration for keeping victims' families in the dark. Walid Bin Attash (left) and Mustafa al Hawasi (right) both now face new trials following the collapsed plea deal. They've been held in Guantanamo Bay since the early 2000s Hijacked United Airlines Flight 175 from Boston crashes into the south tower of the World Trade Center and explodes at 9:03 a.m. on September 11. Close to 3,000 people were killed during the attacks on New York City, Washington DC and the downing of a United Airlines plane in a Pennsylvania field 'We are astounded and deeply frustrated that our families were not consulted or even notified in advance of the plea deal or its subsequent revocation,' Eagleson said. 'These monsters need to be forced to share every piece of information they have about the attacks and be held fully accountable for the murder of our loved ones. It's not just about punishment, it's about uncovering the full truth,' he added. Eagleson hoped that the decision will 'not hinder our efforts to hold those responsible, including the Saudi government, accountable for their roles in this horrific tragedy' and demands 'greater transparency and accountability'. If meaningless platitudes are your thing, then an embarrassment of riches is currently available. As 2024 limped to a rather downbeat finale, Scotlands leading politicians offered their reflections on the year just passed. Fierce opponents united in their careless dispersal of bromides. Statements were stripped of substance then thickened with spin about progress made. This time of year, said Labours Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, is a chance for us all to look back and reflect. Mr Murray proceeded to dance across a minefield of cliches, stepping heavily on each one. Labour, he said, had taken difficult decisions in order to fix the foundations of our economy. This work had enabled Labour to lay the foundations for delivering on our missions. For all that talk of foundations, Labours popularity is sinking in Scotland. The momentum created by the partys landslide General Election win in July dissipated within weeks and the SNP is still very much in the fight for supremacy at the 2026 Holyrood election. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar faces a tougher fight than expected to overcome the SNP at the next Holyrood election You may - though I doubt it - be excited to learn that, in 2025, Mr Murray and his colleagues at the Scotland Office will be rolling out Brand Scotland around the world. But if Scottish Labours man in the cabinet struggled to excite with his New Year message, SNP leader John Swinney was no more inspiring. The end of one year and the start of another, said the First Minister, was a time for togetherness and also for reflection. Twenty twenty-four had been remarkable and memorable for Mr Swinney because he had been given the honour of serving at the top of government which is quite the twist on what actually happened which, lets not forget, was that the current SNP leader was dragged out of semi-retirement by colleagues worried that the damage caused to their party during the chaotic 13-month leadership of Humza Yousaf was beyond repair. As is now tradition for SNP leaders, Mr Swinney promised to make inroads in eradicating child poverty which, Im afraid, prompts the thought that if everyone donated a quid for every time an SNP leader promised to eradicate child poverty, child poverty would have been eradicated years ago. In the year to come, the First Minister added, his government would invest record sums in the NHS. Cynicism is an ugly thing but its incredibly difficult to hear an SNP leader promise to save the NHS without rolling ones eyes. (If you dont believe me, try it.) Who knows, perhaps over the year ahead, the two parties currently vying for political dominance in Scotland will transform our country for the better. John Swinney was dragged out of semi-retirement by colleagues after the resignation of Humza Yousaf Maybe they will seriously focus not only on identifying the priorities of voters but actually taking steps to address them. This might happen just as, at some point during the year ahead, I might win the Euromillions jackpot. Upon reflection, Id say that outcome was the more likely. And I dont buy a ticket. Life for most Scots will not - can not - improve while both Labour and the SNP refuse to diverge on key areas of public spending. The truth that the nationalists propensity for bread and circuses politics has harmed Scotlands public services is, I think, fairly well established by now. After more than 17 years during which successive SNP First Ministers relied on flashy policies such as the abolition of university tuition fees or the extension of the provision of free prescriptions to include the wealthy, the National Health Service is in deep crisis, our under-resourced schools are failing countless children, and our justice system is so heavily skewed in favour of offenders that it frequently fails to serve its purpose. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar played a significant role in his partys resurrection. Affable and quick witted, Mr Sarwar injected real energy into his party. Not so very long ago, the talk was of whether Scottish Labour had any kind of meaningful future. Over the past year, the possibility that Mr Sarwar might become First Minister after the next election has become widely accepted. But while the Scottish Labours leaders presentational skills are first class, it is beginning to look like he is less adept when it comes to policy. While decisions taken by Sir Keir Starmers government - such as the abolition of the winter fuel allowance and the U-turn on a promise to compensate women claiming pension inequality - have handed ammunition to the SNP, Mr Sarwar has failed to present a coherent alternative to the SNPs vision for Scotland Now that the independence question is off the table for the foreseeable future, the similarities between the SNP and Labour become clearer. Strip away that bitter constitutional battle and were left with two parties with almost identical offers. Mr Sarwar and other senior figures in Scottish Labour may believe that the SNPs spending priorities are utterly wrong-headed but they lack the courage to challenge populist decisions. Labours current position is that, should it win the 2026 election, it will not scrap policies such as free tuition and prescriptions. Of course, this makes sense, politically. When former Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont suggested that the SNPs something for nothing policies should not be seen as sacred, the backlash she suffered was so fierce that she simply could not recover from it. So, of course, Mr Sarwars instinct is not to do anything that might leave him open to the charge that hes taking from the needy, even if those who benefit most from the tuition and prescription freebies are societys wealthiest. Until either Scottish Labour or the SNP has the courage to admit that government spending needs a serious rethink, then the ongoing public services death spiral will gain greater torque. Among the inevitable conclusions of that failure to put limited funds where they would make the greatest positive change will be an NHS, broken beyond repair. Not many of us enjoy paying tax but we understand its importance. Our contributions are part of a valuable social contract. Dont we deserve, then, some honesty from our political leaders about what can and cannot be done under current funding levels? After years of failure, the SNP deserves to lose the next Holyrood election. Scotland is crying out for a government willing to challenge orthodoxies in the public sector and to initiate necessary reform, regardless of the often deafening opposition of those with vested interests. Anas Sarwar remains the most credible challenger at Holyrood to the First Ministership of John Swinney but, unless the Scottish Labour leader can replace platitudes with an energising alternative vision for our country during the year ahead, the chances of him achieving that ambition in 2026 will get slimmer by the day. A newly released video showed the moment a tenant was pummeled by his neighbor's guests after he complained about their loud music during a Christmas Day party. The 29-year-old victim, who identified himself as Lucas, can be seen holding his dog by the leash and arguing with the two men and a woman outside the building in Recoleta, an affluent neighborhood in the Argentine city of Buenos Aires. Lucas was slapped in the arm by one of the men and then began to walk away when the same individual approached him from behind and hit his ear. He then responded by throwing a punch before the two men pinned him against a column and landed several punches. The defenseless tenant crashed to the ground, where the men continued the assault. The woman hit Lucas with his own sandals and joined the men in berating him as sat upright. 'When I fell to the ground they didn't stop hitting me, I thought they were going to kill me, that they weren't going to stop,' Lucas told Argentine news outlet A24. Lucas explained that he spent Christmas Day away from his home and returned around 7pm when he heard the music blaring loudly from an events hall that is located on the last floor, above his apartment. Lucas (seen in the red shirt) was beaten by his neighbor's guest outside his apartment building in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Christmas Day after he asked the group if they could lower the loud music they were playing in an events hall located above his apartment. The 29-year-old declined to press charges Lucas tried to sit upright while a woman berated him after her two male companions savagely assaulted him He was in the elevator when he confronted the three individuals, including the man who rents an apartment in the building, and asked them if they could lower the music volume. 'One of them told me that they couldn't, the woman told me that I was bitter and that it was Christmas and we had to celebrate,' Lucas said. Despite insisting and repeatedly being told that they would not oblige, Lucas decided it was not worth trying. However, the woman and the two men reportedly kept harassing him before the incident escalated. 'When I turned around, he hit me in the ear and, as a defensive reaction, I threw a punch and then the three of them came at me,' Lucas said. Two police officers on patrol intervened, but Lucas declined to file a police report. The local prosecutor's office did open an investigation and expect to charge the suspects, all Colombian nationals, who were still on the run as of Tuesday. Lucas (pictured in the red shirt) was assaulted by his neighbor's guests in front of the building where he lives in Recoleta, a high-end neighborhood in the Argentina city of Buenos Aires on Christmas Day. The 29-year-old told Argentine news outlet A24:' I thought they were going to kill me, that they weren't going to stop' 'He was not killed by chance,' Lucas' lawyer said, as quoted by La Nacion newspaper. The beating took place the same day a former police officer shot and killed his neighbor over a noise complaint in the Buenos Aires town of Lomas del Mirador. Video footage showed Rafael Moreno, 74, approaching a house party attendee and pulling out a .38 caliber revolver before the victim, Sergio Diaz, 40, intervened. Moreno was questioned about drawing the weapon on them and then slapped him in the face before the retired federal police agent shot Diaz in the abdomen. Diaz was rushed to an area hospital, where he died from the gunshot wound several hours later. An elderly couple in their seventies have been found dead in a home on New Year's Eve in what is reportedly investigated as a potential murder-suicide. Police have launched an investigation to find out the circumstances of how the pair - who were known to one another - died. The bodies were discovered at 11.23am in Poole, Dorset. The next of kin have been informed and the coroner has been notified. No one else was being sought in connection with the incident, which unconfirmed reports suggested could be a murder-suicide. A police cordon was thrown up around the house as a Major Crime Unit investigation was launched. A spokesman for Dorset Police said: 'Detectives have launched an investigation after a man and woman were found dead at an address in Poole. 'The incident in Anthony's Avenue was reported to police at 11.35am today. 'Officers attended, along with the ambulance service and the bodies of a man and a woman - both aged in their 70s - were located within the property. An investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances of both deaths. A Google street view image of the road where the couple were found 'The man and the woman were known to each other. Their next kin have been informed and the coroner has been notified.' Detective Inspector Ian Allen, of Dorset Police, said: 'This is a very sad incident and we are doing all we can to support the next of kin. 'Officers are carrying out inquiries to establish exactly what happened and a cordon is in place to allow a thorough investigation of the scene to take place. 'At this time, it is not believed anyone else was involved in the incident and inquiries will continue to find out the full circumstances surrounding the deaths. 'I am appealing to anyone who may have any information to help our investigation to please contact Dorset Police. 'We are trying to establish a timeline of what happened, but are currently considering the period over the Christmas holidays until today. 'There will be an increased police presence in the area and we would encourage anyone to contact officers from the local neighbourhood policing team if they have any concerns or information.' Anyone with information was asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111. Police forces are allowing trans officers to carry multiple warrant cards depending on the gender they choose on a given day. At least 11 forces in England and Wales use the policy, blasted as dangerous by women's groups. Trans officers can receive two warrant cards, or more if they are 'gender fluid'. Police officers use warrant cards to identify themselves and they must be shown before using powers including stop and search. Two thirds of forces also allow biological male trans officers and civilian staff to use women's showers, toilets and changing rooms, according to a Freedom of Information request by the Daily Mail. MPs and campaigners last night said the policies threaten women's safety and could breach the rights of police staff, suspects and victims. Twelve of the 47 forces quizzed about their policies said they allow trans officers to carry multiple warrant cards. And 28 said they allow trans staff to use the facilities of the gender with which they identify. Five forces did not respond. A police officer has his face painted during the York Pride parade on June 03, 2023 in York, England Maya Forstater, the executive director of charity Sex Matters, warned: 'This is a scandal waiting to happen. 'Allowing any man whatever he calls himself and whatever he is wearing to walk into women's showers, changing rooms and toilets, or to search, including strip search, women is a violation of women's dignity and an abuse of power. 'Female police officers, suspects and victims should be given respect and protected from abuse, but instead police forces are using them as props to validate trans-identifying male officers. Police forces carrying out these policies are engaging in state-sponsored harassment and sexual assault.' She said the case of Met officer Wayne Couzens - who abducted, raped and murdered Sarah Everard after winning her trust with his warrant card - shows 'no one can be treated as beyond suspicion'. The Conservatives pledged in their election manifesto that they would change the Equality Act 2010 to ensure it is clear that protections based on sex apply exclusively to biological sex. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'Biological males should under no circumstances be using female facilities in police stations or anywhere else. The government must review this approach and put the safety of women first.' The Mail asked all 43 forces of England and Wales about their policies, as well as Police Scotland, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, British Transport Police and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary. Those already allowing biologically male trans officers to use women's facilities include Thames Valley Police, Essex, Leicestershire, Avon and Somerset, Dyfed Powys, Merseyside and Police Scotland. Norfolk allows officers to carry 'multiple' warrant cards, as do others including Cheshire and Leicestershire. Others, such as Bedfordshire and Essex, allow two warrant cards. Essex's policy states that during early transition 'there may be a need to have two warrant cards, so that any off-duty incidents whilst living in acquired gender, do not result in the staff member having to 'out' themselves when proving identity'. One card displays the individual's force number and surname only, while the other has their force number and full name. Police officers get ready to arrest the protesters blocking the road during the demonstration. Just Stop Oil activists from the LGBTQ community sprayed pink paint and blocked the Pride In London Parade by sitting in front of a Coca-Cola truck Seven forces including the Metropolitan Police Service, West Midlands Police and Cumbria said they were reviewing their trans policies or creating a 'framework' Seven forces including the Metropolitan Police Service, West Midlands Police and Cumbria said they were reviewing their trans policies or creating a 'framework', while seven including North Wales, Hampshire, Northumbria and Lancashire said they had 'no policy'. Northamptonshire, Surrey, North Yorkshire, British Transport Police and the Police Service of Northern Ireland failed to respond to the information request. Norfolk's policy appears in a document called Trans Equality at Work (Officers and Staff) which was drawn up in conjunction with the Police Federation, public sector union Unison and 'staff support networks' and outlines measures intended to prevent staff being discriminated against. One section states: 'All trans individuals are entitled to use the toilet, shower and changing facilities appropriate to their gender identity. 'Where this does not fit a binary definition of gender, the individual is able to choose where they feel most comfortable, recognising that some but not all buildings have facilities that are not gender specific.' In 2022, the National Police Chief's Council issued guidance that stated women could be strip-searched by transgender police officers who were born as men. Refusal could lead to being accused of a hate incident. The guidance was later withdrawn and is under review. Retired police superintendent Cathy Larkman, national policing lead for the Women's Rights Network, described the policies as 'misogyny writ large'. 'It's reprehensible that policewomen are expected to change and shower in the presence of male officers and staff. Why on earth would any parent encourage their daughter to join the police now and subject themselves to this indignity?' she said. 'I'm told time and again by serving female officers and staff that they are either silenced or their views dismissed totally. They haven't been asked whether they consent to this intrusion on their basic human rights, they are simply meant to comply and shut up. 'Police chiefs care more about slavish adherence to gender ideology than the privacy, dignity and safety of their own officers and staff. That is utterly shameful.' Steve Perkins, a former Met officer who quit last year after becoming disillusioned with the force, claimed freedom of choice for trans employees was already happening there informally She added: 'It should not be a surprise to anyone that a police service prepared to permit state-sanctioned sexual assault in allowing male officers to strip search female members of the public and to force their female officers to strip search men, would value their dignity and safety in the workplace so little.' Steve Perkins, a former Met officer who quit last year after becoming disillusioned with the force, claimed freedom of choice for trans employees was already happening there informally. 'The Met policy was that it was for the individual who chooses to identify as a specific gender, or no gender, to choose which facility they felt most comfortable using,' he said. 'This didn't require anything more than them deciding themselves. No gender certificate was required. 'I have a strong view that this is wrong. What about the rights of the usually biological women feeling comfortable in their own facilities? It shouldn't be down to the transitioning person to decide.' Mr Perkins added his wife, who left the force after 15 years as a civilian staff member, was left feeling 'violated' after a man she knew, who had started identifying as a woman, walked in on her when she was changing in a Met facility. Retired undercover Met detective Peter Bleksley, who formerly hosted Channel 4 show Hunted, added: '[Some] forces let them strip search women. 'It's all outrageous and putting women at risk. Woke nonsense ideology gone mad.' A Met spokesman said: 'At present there is no formal policy in place for transgender and gender diverse staff and officers. The policy is currently in early development stages and will then go out for consultation across the organisation. It will provide clear guidance for officers, staff and line managers' Essex Police said it is 'committed to providing a working environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect'. A College of Policing spokesman said: 'All employers, including policing, are required to comply with the Equality Act, and equality legislation set by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, the independent statutory body with the responsibility to encourage equality and diversity, eliminate unlawful discrimination, and protect and promote the human rights of everyone in Britain.' An NPCC spokesman said: 'Forces are all operationally independent so any policies would be prepared locally. NPCC will often issue guidance but this is not usually a directive and the force will make their own decisions about how to manage a particular issue or process.' The Home Office declined to comment as the NPCC had provided a statement. The father of Stephen Lawrence said last night he will accept the release of one of his son's killers at an upcoming parole hearing if he apologises. David Norris, 48, could be freed in months after he was granted an oral Parole Board hearing which could happen as early as May, the Mail can reveal. Neville Lawrence said that while he was not happy about the possibility, he was willing to accept it if Norris apologises and 'shows he is a changed man'. Norris, who was finally jailed for a minimum of 14 years in September 2012, could begin rebuilding his life in the summer if the panel agree he is fit for release. He is eligible for release in 2025 because of time spend on remand before his guilty conviction. Speaking from his home in Jamaica, Mr Lawrence, 82, said: 'He would have to say he was sorry for killing Stephen and that he had changed his ways and apologise to our family [for me to accept his release]. 'I am not satisfied with him getting parole but what I am saying is if he can show remorse and show he's changed then I will accept that. 'It's not that I'm okay with it but if someone shows they know they did something wrong and have changed, then I can accept that.' Mr Lawrence was baptised again as a Seventh-day Adventist in 2017 by a pastor who encouraged him to forgive those who had wronged him. He has given a statement to the Parole Board but said he is yet to decide if he will attend the hearing. The board is yet to declare if the hearing will be public but relatives can attend. Neville Lawrence (above), the father of Stephen Lawrence said last night he will accept the release of one of his son's killers at an upcoming parole hearing if he apologises David Norris, 48, could be freed in months after he was granted an oral Parole Board hearing which could happen as early as May, the Mail can reveal Five men were initially arrested over the racist murder of Stephen, 18, (above) who was fatally stabbed in Eltham, south east London Events during Norris's time in prison will likely count against him. He was caught illegally using a smartphone in 2022, which he used to take a sickening selfie from his cell on Dartmoor's E-wing, which houses supposedly well-behaved inmates. The phone was recovered from his body after he was X-rayed and a police investigation into how he obtained it was launched. Brandon Lewis, justice secretary at the time, said he was 'furious' and that the killer would face 'consequences' for the offence. Norris was put into solitary confinement and it seemed his hope of parole was shattered. But confirmation his case will be heard by the Parole Board represents a realistic prospect of release. Five men were initially arrested over the racist murder of Stephen, 18, who was fatally stabbed in Eltham, south east London. Two of his killers Norris and Gary Dobson, now 49 were brought to justice after a belated forensic breakthrough. Both were given life sentences in 2012 after being found guilty of murder. A spokesman for the Parole Board confirmed that, after a review in November, it had been decided that Norris's case would be discussed at an oral hearing, with a date yet to be set. In 2017 Norris, whose father Clifford was a notorious gangland figure in the 1990s and who was linked to alleged police corruption in the Lawrence case, failed in a bid to clear his name after an exhaustive review of the case. Nine UK special forces troops could be prosecuted over alleged war crimes in Syria, Ministry of Defence (MoD) figures show. The Service Prosecuting Authority (SPA), is considering one case related to one individual and another involving eight. The body, the military equivalent of the Crown Prosecution Service, is also considering a case involving another member of the armed forces over their actions in Afghanistan. Earlier this year, the Daily Mail reported that five serving SAS soldiers were facing a murder investigation over the death of a suspected jihadist in Syria two years ago. Special forces chiefs are said to have alleged that troops used excessive force and should have arrested the suspect, who was shot dead. The soldiers were adamant he posed a threat and intended to carry out a suicide attack. The Royal Military Police has been investigating whether the man's shooting was a war crime. Following the revelations, The Times submitted a Freedom of Information request to the MoD, which asked the department to disclose all cases being examined by the SPA in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. Following an investigation by the Defence Serious Crimes Unit, military chiefs sent files recommending murder charges against soldiers to the Service Prosecuting Authority. Pictured: SAS ground troops in Syria Pictured: SAS ground troops in Syria Fighters from the al-Qaida linked Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant marching in Raqqa, Syria After initially refusing to reveal the information, it eventually agreed. The MoD gave no further details on the alleged war crimes. A case may relate to one or more incidents, it said. In March, this newspaper reported that, according to Special Air Service sources, in the Syria case a primed suicide vest was found nearby but the suspect was not wearing it when killed. The Mail was told soldiers were watching a suspect jihadi compound at night, when suspects allegedly ran from the property shortly before a planned raid. One of the jihadists was then seen lying motionless behind a bush - either dead, wounded or simply attempting to hide. SAS soldiers approached his position and he was shot several times at pointblank range. According to sources, additional rounds were fired because they feared he could detonate a suicide vest. The case emerged as a High Court public inquiry continued into claims that SAS soldiers executed as many as 80 Taliban suspects in custody in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. An MoD spokesman said: 'Our UK personnel are respected worldwide for the highest standards and action will be taken against anyone that fails to meet these standards, including dismissal from service, where appropriate. 'It would be inappropriate to comment further on ongoing investigations.' State and private schools will face 'significant damage' from Labour's tax raid on fees, teachers warned last night. In a bid to raise 1.6billion to recruit 6,500 state school teachers, the Government is imposing 20per cent VAT on private school fees from today [WED]. But the Independent Schools Council (ISC) said the policy will hurt children and families - including those in state schools. And the Tories accused Labour of 'vindictively' disrupting 'thousands of children's education' in the middle of the school year - adding pressure to the education system. Labour pledged to clobber private schools with VAT at 20 per cent, and scrap the 80 per cent relief private schools receive on business rates from April, in their election manifesto. But the Government's surprise decision to introduce the VAT change from January 1 infuriated critics, who fear it could force children to move schools mid-year. On the eve of the policy's introduction last night, Independent Schools Council CEO Julie Robinson told the Mail that it would 'undermine' private education. 'The Government's rushed tax policy targeting independent schools will do significant damage to the educational opportunities available to children in independent and state schools,' she said. Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, provoked fury over the weekend after claiming middle-class parents support Labour's tax raid Shadow education secretary Laura Trott has accused Labour of 'disrupting thousands of children's educations' 'The extent of pupil movement and school closures will become apparent over the next few years, hurting children, families, local businesses and driving up competition for the best state school places. 'This was avoidable and we continue to seek to work with the government, supporting educational opportunities together. A joint approach would be preferable to undermining a section of education that has much to offer.' Shadow education secretary Laura Trott added: 'This rise in VAT will do nothing to help state schools. 'The Labour Government is disrupting thousands of children's education vindictively in the middle of the school year, and all it will do will add pressure to the education system. 'It will be pupils, parents and teachers from the state sector that will end up paying the price.' Research by the Independent Schools' Bursars Association (ISBA) earlier this year found that 11per cent may contemplate closing as a result of the VAT change. Assuming the survey was broadly representative of ISBA membership, it estimated around 141 schools might close - piling pressure on the state sector. Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, provoked fury over the weekend after claiming middle-class parents support the tax raid. Schools such as Eton College (pictured) will be impacted by the introduction of Labour's tax hike She claimed to be 'the voice of pushy middle-class parents', who she insisted have mostly been priced out of sending their children to private schools. Ms Phillipson said the average private school fee had reached the 'considerable sum' of about 18,000 a year. She added: 'Middle-class parents in good professional jobs with housing costs just can't afford that level of fee and they want brilliant state schools. 'This policy allows us to raise more money to invest in what really matters for families.' An HM Treasury spokesman defended the policy last night, saying: 'Ending tax breaks for private schools will raise 1.8 billion a year by 2029, which will help the 94per cent of children in state schools to achieve and thrive. 'Schools and parents have had nearly five months to prepare for the changes and it is right that we introduce them as soon as possible to help deliver our education priorities.' This is the first picture of a 10-year-old boy who survived a Christmas cake poisoning that left three people dead. Matheus Marques da Silva has spent the last week in intensive care after tucking into the festive treat which had been baked by his great aunt Zeli Dos Anjos, 61. Within hours though the pair were rushed to hospital suffering from severe vomiting and breathlessness, along with four other family members. Zeli's sisters Maida Bernice Flores da Silva, 58, and Neuza Denize Dos Anjos later died as did Matheus's mum Tatiana Silvia Dos Santos, 43. On New Year's Eve, the schoolboy was moved out of intensive care at the Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes hospital in the southern Brazilian town of Torres and onto a paediatric wing. The hospital is just a few minutes walk from the apartment of his aunt Maida where the tragedy unfolded and which is now being investigated by local police. Matheus was visited by family members after being moved and they authorised the release of a picture showing him with Maida's husband, Jefferson, who was also treated in hospital after eating the cake. Relatives said that Maida, was Matheus godmother and he was particularly close to her, while Neuza was his grandmother. This is the first picture of 10-year-old Matheus Marques da Silva who survived a Christmas cake poisoning that left three people dead Pictured: The Christmas cake that was consumed by guests on December 23 A picture found on Zeli's social media by MailOnline shows a similar white icing covered fruit cake, topped with cherries which she baked in 2021 and gathered with her are husband Paulo (right, next to his wife) and other relatives In a touching letter to his local priests Father Leonir Alves and Father Almo Kohler and which was also given out by the family, Matheus asked 'for prayers for himself and the rest of his family'. Father Leonir said: 'Receiving a letter from a child who perhaps has not yet fully understood what happened to him and his family is a demonstration of faith and hope. 'At the beginning of this year, these are the words that drive us: faith and hope for better days.' The letter was read out during a church service in Torres for the victims on Monday night. It said:' Dear Father Leone and Father Almo, I want to ask that my mother, godmother and grandmother rest in peace, that God welcomes them and gives them eternal life. The graves of Tatiana Denize Silva dos Santos, 43 and Neuza Denise Silva dos Anjos, 65 in the Sao Vincente Cemetery in Porto Alegre, Brazil Joao Silva Dos Anjos (left) was among seven people who attended the traditional meal on December 23 at which Zeli Dos Anjos, 61, regularly makes the festive treat Joao was married to Zeli's sister Neuza (right), who died in the tragedy along with their daughter Tatiana Zeli dos Anjos (pictured) prepared the traditional 'Bolo de Natal' festive treat for a family afternoon coffee 'I can't be present because I am in hospital, I would like you to say a prayer for them and me. Thank you.' A family member who was at the service told MailOnline:' It was a very moving experience for everyone and chance for the family and the parish to come together and pray.' Police are still investigating the exact circumstances of what happened on December 23 and there have been reports traces of 'arsenic' were found in blood samples of the victims. However, in a statement on Monday forensic experts insisted there had been 'no official confirmation' that arsenic had bene found and tests were still ongoing. Torres police chief, Marcos Vinicius Muniz Veloso, told MailOnline 'all theories were being investigated and that nothing has been ruled out'. The number of small boat migrants reaching Britain since Labour seized power has soared by 29 per cent compared with the same period in 2023. Between July 5 - the day after the general election - and the end of the year 23,242 migrants arrived across the Channel. In the same period in 2023 the figure was 18,004, analysis of official Home Office figures showed. The Mail reported yesterday how December witnessed a 200 per cent increase in small boat arrivals compared with the same month in 2023, following a massive surge over the Christmas period. Last night, the Conservatives said the 'sky-rocketing' number of illegal arrivals showed the Government had 'lost control of our borders'. Chris Philp MP, the shadow home secretary, said: 'These figures make clear Labour has totally failed on illegal immigration by small boat.' Numbers have sky-rocketed since the general election. 'Over three times more illegal immigrants crossed in December this year compared to last year - an insult to the British people. 'Labour has lost control of our borders.' The number of small boat migrants reaching Britain since Labour seized power has soared by 29 per cent compared with the same period in 2023 Between July 5 - the day after the general election - and the end of the year 23,242 migrants arrived across the Channel - pictured is the RNLI bringing a group of migrants into Dover Last year was the deadliest on record since the Channel crisis began in 2018 with at least 69 deaths, most recently three men off the coast of Sangatte, near Calais, on Sunday. One of Labour's first acts in office was to scrap the Tories' Rwanda asylum deal which was designed to deter illegal dinghy crossings and save lives. Migrants would have been sent to the east African nation under the 715million scheme to claim asylum there rather than here. Labour insists that bringing existing government agencies together under a new Border Security Command will see trafficking gangs dismantled, stemming the flow of migrants. Mr Philp said: 'The National Crime Agency warned that a removals deterrent was needed, and law enforcement alone would not be enough.' This means Labour made a catastrophic mistake by cancelling the Rwanda removals to deterrent before it even started.' The first Rwanda plane was due to take off on July 24, and had Labour allowed the scheme to start, crossings would by now have dropped a lot - as they did when Australia did the same thing.' Chris Philp MP, the shadow home secretary, said: 'These figures make clear Labour has totally failed on illegal immigration by small boat.' A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, from a Border Force vessel following a small boat incident in the Channel, on December 29, 2024 An abandoned small boat on a French beach near Calais. Between July 5 - the day after the general election - and the end of the year 23,242 migrants arrived across the Channel Labour's claim to smash the gangs is nothing new. That was happening already, and Labour voted against measures to increase prison sentences for these very same gangs when they were in an opposition.' As migrant numbers have surged, Labour has been forced to open additional migrant hotels to accommodate new arrivals at the UK taxpayers' expense. Last month, the Home Office's top civil servant Sir Matthew Rycroft confirmed to MPs that 35,000 migrants were housed in hotels with spending running at 5.5million a day. The number of hotels in use had fallen by 191 from its peak a year ago but is now on the rise as Channel arrivals soar again. A Conservative spokesman said that in opposition, Labour voted against tougher measures to tackle illegal immigration 134 times, and voted 126 times to delay or weaken Tory measures to stop the boats. A Home Office source said: 'The Tory government failed to take our border security seriously. 'They let criminal gangs take hold all along our borders and, on their watch, small boat crossings grew from just a few hundred in 2018 to tens of thousands by the time they left office.' They spent an eye-watering 700million to send just four volunteers to Rwanda - the failed scheme was more of a distraction than a deterrent.' Labour is fixing our border security, with a new Border Security Command backed up by an additional 150million and 100 new specialist investigators to go after the evil smuggling gangs making millions out of small boat crossings.' The FBI arrested a Virginia man on gun charges after finding the largest cache of 'finished explosives' - including pipe bombs - in his home. The record stockpile described in court documents includes 150 explosives discovered in suspect Brad Spafford's 20-acre farm, where he lives with two young children. 'Unsecured' pipe bombs were found in a backpack and a bedroom and devices marked as 'lethal' were found in a barn on the property. The explosives were found during a search of Spafford's property in Isle of Wight County, Virginia, located near Norfolk about three hours from Washington, D.C. A neighbor who alerted authorities said Spafford would use photographs of President Joe Biden for target practice at a shooting range, and that he blew off three fingers on his right hand while working with a homemade explosive. The suspect said 'political assassinations should be brought back.' Following the first attempt on Donald Trump's life at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, he told the neighbor he 'hoped the shooter doesnt miss Kamala,' according to a report on the documents and a report in the Springfield Times. The neighbor also said Spafford spouted a bizarre conspiracy theory that 'missing children in the news had been taken by the federal government to be trained as school shooters.' Spafford was arrested on charges related to the improper registration of a weapon. Authorities often bring a lesser charge to detain a suspect and then build a case later. Suspect Brad Spafford has been arrested on a gun charge after authorities say they found the largest cache of finished explosives ever at his Virginia farm Prosecutors arguing for his continued detention call him an 'extreme danger to the community,' in documents reported by Court Watch News. 'Most of the devices were found in a detached garage, where the FBI also found tools and manufacturing materials, including homemade fuses and pieces of PVC pipe. Several additional apparent pipe bombs were found in a backpack in the homes bedroom, completely unsecured,' according to the documents. News of the seizure comes as Washington is on high alert for the January 20 inauguration of Donald Trump, which is designated as a national security event. President Joe Biden will also be there. It also comes just days after FBI Director Chris Wray announced his decision to step down before the end of his term, after Trump announced plans to install loyalist Kash Patel in his post. Congress is set to meet to count the electoral votes on January 6, on the anniversary of the date four years ago when a violent mob battled police officers and breached the Capitol. The record stockpile described in court documents includes 150 explosives discovered in suspect Brad Spafford's home The FBI assessed it was the largest seizure of 'finished explosive devices' it has uncovered The cache was 'preliminarily assessed as the largest seizure by number of finished explosive devices in FBI history,' according to the court documents. Investigators also uncovered a charge of the explosive HMTD marked 'Dangerous' and 'Do Not Touch.' The explosive, stored in the suspect's freezer, 'is so unstable it can be exploded merely as a result of friction of temperature changes,' according to the court papers. A notebook included 'recipes' for explosives. Spafford was charged December 10th. The probe began when a confidential source 'who was the defendants neighbor and friend, reported that the defendant disfigured his hand in 2021 while working with a homemade explosive device, and was stockpiling weapons and homemade ammunition.' 'The defendant has used pictures of the President for target practice, expressed support for political assassinations, and recently sought qualifications in sniper-rifle shooting at a local range,' the papers said. 'There is not a shred of evidence in the record that Mr. Spafford ever threatened anyone and the contention that someone might be in danger because of their political views and comments is nonsensical,' his lawyers wrote in their own filing seeking his release. He has 'no criminal record and no history of substance abuse or mental illness,' they argued. Prince William credits his mother Diana for explaining the concept of homelessness to him and particularly why people sleep rough. In focusing his energy on the plight of the many thousands who have nowhere to call home, he is clearly continuing her work in this area, but it is often forgotten he's also following in the footsteps of his grandmother the late Queen. On New Year's Eve 1999 as the minutes ticked by to the dawn of the new Millennium, I was one of a small group of press gathered outside the Crisis cold weather shelter for the homeless in Southwark. We were waiting for a visit by Queen Elizabeth who had asked to spend Hogmanay with some of the least-well off people in the country before heading down the River Thames to join Prime Minister Tony Blair and his New Labour team to open one of their pet projects the Millennium Dome. The Queen had particularly requested the visit. Not everybody would be celebrating the Millennium and she was keen to mark this significant milestone with people from all walks of life. She chose a Crisis centre since she had heard that around 40 people would be spending the New Year at the unit, including heroin users undergoing treatment. The Queen left the centre after chatting to several of the residents including Peter Davies, a reformed alcoholic who said 'the centre had saved his life' Her majesty left the Crisis centre and headed towards Greenwich to celebrate the new year in the Millennium Dome The Queen, dressed in a cheerful apricot-coloured coat, and accompanied by Prince Philip, was shown around the shelter by Shaks Ghosh, the chief executive of crisis at the time. In the sitting room she met Mouse, injured after a fall, who held on to his can of Special Brew as he met the monarch. 'The Queen seemed to know my name and she knew I had broke my hip and said she hoped I got better,' he said at the time. 'It has really made my day.' The royal couple also met one of the shelter's success stories. Peter Davies, a reformed alcoholic, had used the Southwark shelter a few years before, and by the Queen's visit had moved into a flat in north west London. He told the monarch that Crisis had saved his life. 'I came in here four years ago and I was dying,' he said. 'Crisis saved me. They put me in hospital and housed me and enabled me to cope. 'If it wasn't for all the people who work for them I would still be on the streets or more likely I would be dead by now.' He presented the Queen with a poem he had written about his life called Living Inside A Bottle. Some of the other residents were unfazed by the celebrity visit and continued talking and even dancing round the room in front of the royal couple, who took it all in their stride. Afterwards the Queen and duke were joined on a royal launch by Princess Anne and her husband Tim Laurence for a stately procession downstream to Tower Bridge. Here she eventually lit the rain-soaked National Millennium Beacon after a minute of trying. As the flame disappeared and then came back to life, the Queen was heard exclaiming 'I thought it had blown out!' The royal party disembarked at Greenwich where they entered the Millennium Dome, clinked glasses of champagne as the chimes of midnight sounded and sang Auld Lang Syne. Although Tony Blair had trumpeted the opening ceremony of the Dome would be 'the greatest show on earth', the Queen was clearly out of her comfort zone. Blair's chief Press Secretary, Alastair Campbell, later claimed: the monarch 'at least managed the odd smile' while the others 'looked very pissed off to be there'. The Princess Royal, in particular, 'was like granite', he said. Some of the discomfort may have been caused by the lack of heat in the cavernous Dome. 'It was pretty clear,' said Campbell, 'they would rather be sitting under their travel rugs at Balmoral'. This is doubtful as the rest of the royal family was, as always, seeing in the New Year at Sandringham. The visit to Crisis wasn't the Queen's first visit to a homeless shelter. In May 1993, a month before Diana first took William to The Passage to meet London's homeless, his grandmother visited a similar centre in Hungary. Queen Elizabeth visiting the Crisis homelessness centre in London in 1999 She was shown round the centre by Shaks Ghosh, then chief executive of the charity Queen Elizabeth moved on to Greenwich where she lit the Millennium Beacon Princess Anne, the late Duke of Edinburgh and the late Queen sing Auld Lang Syne with Tony and Cherie Blair at the Millennium Dome A rare image of Prince Philip kissing the late Queen at the stroke of midnight welcoming in the year 2000 The Queen and Prince Philip were on a four-day visit to the country, the first by a British monarch to a former Warsaw Pact nation. The visit was covered by over 250 accredited journalists, mostly from the host nation. Since the Queen's grandmother, Queen Mary, was the granddaughter of the Hungarian Countess Claudine Rhedey, Elizabeth was celebrated as 'one of us' by the local press, even though she was only one sixteenth Hungarian. After addressing the country's parliament, the Queen toured a Wesleyan Hostel which provided night-time shelter to 50 men in Budapest. Unfortunately the night before, they were all forced sleep rough at the local train station as there had been a problem with the plumbing which meant they had to evacuate until it was fixed. The Hungarian press noted that while politicians 'complained that the Queen was visiting one of the poorest districts of Budapest, and even a homeless shelter', the visit was a positive one, with locals cheering her arrival and the visit overrunning as she took time to meet as many of the residents as possible. As with her Millennium night visit to Crisis seven years later, it was clear that besides meeting politicians and dignitaries, the Queen was keen to factor in time to meet those who lived rough. It helped her to better understand the day-to-day challenges faced by the marginalised and vulnerable, helping to pave the way for Prince William's personal crusade to end homelessness. They are the warring Windsors, angry brothers living thousands of miles apart with not a word uttered between them for the best part of two years. That, at least, is how we think of them today. So deep is the estrangement between Princes William and Harry that reconciliation seems completely off the cards, maybe forever. It wasn't always like that. As a former royal photographer, I remember them as fun-loving, happy young boys, who later grew into fine young men appearing to cope well with the royal goldfish bowl. So what went wrong? In a new two-part documentary, those, like me, who snapped the royals over the years were asked to search through their archives of forgotten, unpublished pictures. The result is a selection which charts their lives from the tensions of living with feuding parents, through their mother's tragic death to the final, emotional split. There is something else revealed by these pictures, too. Some might feel, with me, they offer just a glimpse of hope for their future. Helping hand for furious Harry March 2008 Nothing, to me, sums up the strength of the relationship the two boys once enjoyed more than this picture. Prince William put an end to Harry's TV Interview when he felt his brother had been through enough and he helped carry Harry's kit to the car. Concerned for Harry's safety, the Ministry of Defence famously cut short his tour of duty in Afghanistan and he flew back to Britain on the first available flight. At first glance, there's nothing unusual to see: a young man in chinos helps load bags of luggage into a suburban estate car. Except, of course, that the man in question is Prince William, heir to the throne. And this scene at a Royal Air Force (RAF) base in England is historic a moment of high tension for the Royal Family. When I took these photos at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, news of Harry's deployment to Afghanistan had just been mistakenly leaked by an Australian lifestyle magazine. The news went global. Concerned for Harry's safety, the Ministry of Defence famously cut short his tour of duty and he flew back to the UK on the first available flight, arriving on March 1. I still recall the look of disgust Harry gave to the British press pack although we had nothing to do with the leak. As far as he was concerned, however, we were all tarred with the same brush. William looked just as annoyed and, inside the airport building, he gently cut short Harry's TV Interview when he felt his brother had been through enough and he helped carry Harry's kit and loaded it in the back of the car. Neither brother looked at us or posed for photos or answered questions, united in their anger. William's first day at Eton September 1995 Charles and Diana were ill-fated as a couple but they were caring parents who ensured their sons were treated alike and were given the same opportunities. The brothers dressed in the same clothes, went to the same schools and played with the same friends. Although, today, he has a polished look in public - and it is Harry who hides away from the press - William had always been the more reticent of the two. Prince William, then aged 13, faced a daunting array of journalists and photographers on his first day at Eton College. I remember Charles driving with his elder son in his open-top Aston Martin to watch the polo game at Windsor. When 13-year-old William saw the photographers, he ducked his head. This photo was taken in September 1995 on his first day at Eton College. The family had to pose before a daunting press pack of 150 and William, unsurprisingly, was nervous until Diana leaned forward and said something that made him smile. Although their marriage had already fallen apart and they separated three years earlier, Charles and Diana put on a real show of togetherness that day. Diana is angry with the Queen Mother July 1996 This is not my best photo as I was stationed behind three rows of royal fans having dashed from photographing Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela at the Dorchester Hotel. But I think it is a revealing one. This was July 11, 1996. Diana wasn't at all happy and the young princes, accompanied by a friend, seemed to have picked up the vibe. It had been Diana's turn to look after William and Harry and she'd planned a fun day out at the Royal Tournament, the world's largest military pageant, in West London. Snubbing the popular Queen Mother would have been terrible publicity for Diana so she had no choice but to abandon her plans for a private family outing. Unfortunately for her, though, the boy's great-grandmother, the Queen Mother (mother of the late Queen Elizabeth II), was also attending the show but in an official capacity. And, getting wind of their presence, the matriarch invited Diana and her boys to join her in the Royal Box. Snubbing the popular Queen Mother would have been terrible publicity for Diana so she had no choice but to abandon her plans for a private family outing and take the princes to join the royal party. She appeared furious, as this picture shows. William and Harry wait for their mother's coffin September 1997 Diana's brother, Earl Spencer has said it was a 'very bizarre and cruel thing' for his two nephews, William and Harry, then aged 15 and 12, to walk behind their mother's body at her funeral. I agreed with him at the time and I still do now. On September, I was with a group of 30 photographers at Marlborough Gate on the Mall the long drive to Buckingham Palace where the two princes were due to join their mothers cortege. William kept his head bowed throughout. Harry looked stunned, as if he had no idea where he was or what he was expected to do. And there they waited, in the shadow of our enormous, intrusive, press lenses for what must have seemed like an eternity. I've reported on many royal funerals, large and small, and the crowds of onlookers have always been quiet and respectful. This, however, was bizarre. The crowds gathered along The Mall shouted at her coffin as if she were still alive. Right there in front of William and Harry, they bawled out, 'We love you Diana!', 'Rest in Peace', and 'we'll always remember you', accompanied by wails and even screams. When this photo was taken the five chief mourners were joining the procession. William kept his head bowed throughout. Harry looked stunned, as if he had no idea where he was or what he was expected to do. Charles looked as if he were terrified the crowds would turn on him. Shy William meets the female fans August 2001 One possible reason for William's youthful self-consciousness was that for several years he was treated as the pop-star prince with groups of girls screaming whenever they saw him. He seemed to find it mortifying. These photos were taken in August 2001 when the brothers attended the Queen Mother's 101st birthday lunch at Clarence House, her London home (now King Charles's official residence). When the prince arrived, well-wishers went berserk and began shouting 'We love you William!' much to his embarrassment. As they walked back inside, I remember that Harry and their cousin Peter Phillips son of Princess Anne, pictured left teased William mercilessly. When William arrived and stood behind his great grandmother the well-wishers went berserk and began shouting 'We love you William!' much to his embarrassment. There was a particular moment of hilarity when, between the screams, a solitary middle-aged woman called out 'and I love you Charles!' Harry was never jealous of William's pin-up status and this is another example of how he had his brother's back. In this case, he eased the tension by encouraging him to roll with it, saying, 'look they all adore you'. As they walked back inside I remember that Harry and their cousin Peter Phillips son of Princess Anne teased William mercilessly. The blushing prince November 2004 Princes Harry and William are seen here at Chester Cathedral for the wedding of Lady Tamara Grosvenor, daughter of the Duke of Westminster, to Edward van Cutsem. Sharing the joke is the groom's brother, Hugh van Cutsem . Once again the crowds were shouting out to William who blushed with nerves and embarrassment. The princes had known the van Cutsems all their lives. Hugh senior was a friend of Charles's from their days at Cambridge University and, for 10 years, the family lived at Anmer Hall, Norfolk, now the country home of William and Kate. Once again the crowds were shouting out to William who blushed with nerves and embarrassment. Harry, again, had his brother's back and was trying to jolly him out of his embarrassment. Harry tells Prince Charles to 'shut up' September 1988 Charles was back again at Eton College in September 1998, this time with his younger son, Prince Harry. Once again, there was a large press pack awaiting his arrival in the rain. It must have been daunting for Harry, who was only 13, yet there was no sign of nerves and he seemed happy as he posed for the cameras. Prince Harry on his first day at Eton College. He didn't seem at all daunted. It was just two days after the first anniversary of his mother's death. A statement recently released on behalf of William and Harry had declared that public mourning for their mother was now over and it was time to move on. 'They therefore hope very much that their mother and her memory will now finally be allowed to rest in peace,' it said. When he came to sign the entrance book inside the college, Charles asked Prince Harry if he'd signed it in the correct place - a wry quip as his older brother William had memorably ignored the allocated spot and put his signature at the bottom of the page. 'Shut up Dad! retorted Harry. Pensive Harry looks all alone April 2011 Weddings should bring families together, but I thought Harry cut a lonely figure when William and Kate got married at Westminster Abbey. The bridal couple looked wonderful as they waved to the crowd standing five deep outside. Harry on the other hand barely raised a smile, maybe wishing he had a partner of his own to share the carriage instead of a seven-year-old bridesmaid, in this case Lady Louise Windsor, daughter of Prince Edward. Harry claimed he felt uncomfortable in his Blues and Royals uniform, adding 'I'd never worn it before and hoped not to wear it again anytime soon'. The bridal couple looked wonderful as they waved to the crowd standing five deep outside Westminster Abbey. In his memoir, Spare, one of Harry's many moans was that he didn't feel comfortable in his Blues and Royals uniform, adding 'I'd never worn it before and hoped not to wear it again anytime soon'. The other reason he may have looked glum on the way back is that he realized this was the end of the life he had shared for so long with his elder brother. They were now on separate paths. When Kate was on Team Harry June 2016 I've attended more than thirty royal processions into churches, abbeys and cathedrals over the years, and they've always been rigidly formal, funereal, even. Yet this occasion stood out because of the happy banter between Harry and Kate. I took this picture on June 10 in St Paul's Cathedral. It was obvious that Harry really wanted what William had - and was desperate for a wife like Kate. The entire royal family were there for a thanksgiving service to mark Queen Elizabeth's 90th birthday. By then William and Kate had been married for five years and had two children and were living in a 20-room apartment in Kensington Palace. In contrast, Harry had no family of his own, two failed relationships and was living in nearby Nottingham Cottage where the ceilings were so low, Harry kept banging his head on them. It was obvious to me that he wanted what William had and was desperate for a wife, like Kate. 'William and Harry: The Unseen Photos' is available for streaming in the US on BBC Select 'The Queen, 70 Chapters in the Life of Her Majesty' by Ian Lloyd is published by The History Press Police were ordered to beef up security planning for royal visits over fears Prince Harry was nearly kidnapped in Argentina during his gap year, National Archives files reveal. The 20-year-old was at the centre of an abduction scare in which gun shots were fired. Security had to be increased at the polo ranch in Lobos, 60 miles from Buenos Aires, where he was staying as part of a visit in November 2004 to Argentina described in Cabinet Office records as his 'ongoing education'. The Argentine government was apparently alerted to the kidnap threat by a murder suspect in the local underworld. The Security Ministry responded by sending a squad of 15 armed police officers to patrol the perimeter of the El Remanso ranch, and they fired shots into the air after two shots were heard being fired in the area. A Cabinet Office meeting on the security of royals the following week ordered that: 'Given the recent publicity about the possible kidnapping threat to Prince Harry, the Metropolitan Police should where appropriate seek advice on the possible risks of kidnapping in countries being visited by members of the Royal Family'. Prince Harry observes a polo game in Buenos Aires, Argentina where his friends, the Tomlinson brothers played Prince Harry enjoys some Polo practice at a family friends Polo Farm in Argentina Prince Harry smiles triumphantly and crouches beside the carcass of a recently killed water buffalo in Argentina Another concern was a lack of RAF aircraft for royal and ministerial visits because too many planes had been diverted to Tony Blair's invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. Aircraft from No.32 Squadron, based at RAF Northolt, were 'increasingly engaged in theatre on MoD tasks', an official noted in August 2004, a year and a half into the disastrous invasion of Iraq, adding this was 'a trend likely to continue'. An official group considering the problem concluded that royals and ministers had been 'resorting to chartering individual civilian aircraft via a broker' despite the added costs and 'security problems' of hiring planes that terrorists could have planted a device on. An evolutionary biologist has challenged the long-held theory that suggests the first humans emerged from African. Dr Huan Shi, from China, proposed evolution began in East Asia where fossils predating the Africa timeline have been found. Evidence of genetic diversity is at the heart of his 'out of East Asia' theory, based on a concept called 'maximum genetic diversity' (MGD) that states complex species are more likely to have less genetic diversity. Dr Huang said that because East Asian populations have the least genetic diversity, they are likely to be the true ancestors. Ancient Europeans were also found to be much closer to East Asians, he argued, both in terms of their paternal and maternal genetic makeup. By this logic, the archeological finds of early humans with the most genetic similarities both to each other and to the wider, far-flung human race of today are the most likely candidates for the origin of the species, Dr Huang has contended. If the 'out of Africa' model were correct, the now recently retired biologist noted that the DNA from 45,000-year-old European specimens would more comprehensively match ancient African DNA. 'Ancient DNA [aDNA] from the oldest modern humans found in Europe, which was published this week,' Dr Huang said late this December, 'again showed closer similarity to Asians rather than Africans.' 'Out of Africa,' he boasted, 'has been repeatedly disproven by aDNA!' Dr Huang Shi's 'out of East Asia' theory - supported by analyses of ancient DNA - proposes that humans first emerged in Asia where fossils predating the Africa timeline have also called the established theory into question. Above: a map of sites with the oldest human remains A 2017 analysis finds the Dali skull (pictured) shares many characteristics with modern humans - a find that supports Dr Huang's 'out of East Asia' hypothesis The reason that his MGD theory holds, he said, is that more complex organisms like humans require many more parts of their DNA work together in concert, meaning that there's less room for mutations acting like genetic 'improvisations' to survive. 'A simple thought experiment can explain,' Dr Huang wrote in an article published this past November in the Chinese-language journal Prehistoric Archaeology. 'You can create three different groups of organisms yeast, fish and humans using the same gene sequence, and then let these three organisms diverge for a long time or about 500 million years. 'A gene in yeast will change a lot, such as 50 percent, and its corresponding gene in fish will also change more but less than yeast, such as 30 percent,' he continued, '[but] its corresponding gene in humans will change very little, such as 1 percent.' This documented trend in the history of various species suggests that dramatic mutations in more complex creatures are less likely to survive evolution's long haul. Dr Huang, who was a professor of epigenetics at Central South University's Center for Medical Genetics in Hunan before retiring, has had trouble getting mainstream academia to accept his theory. But scholars dismiss it less and less. 'The MGD hypothesis is an innovative yet indeed controversial theory,' said the Stanford-trained anthropology researcher German Dziebel. Dziebel pointed out that there is broad consensus that older European human DNA samples are less diverse than the more recent samples. MGD theory and thus the 'out of East Asia' theory that it supports 'has potential,' according to Dziebel, 'and needs to be developed further.' Above, a dramatized portrait of a primeval caveman wearing animal skin and hunting with a stone-tipped spear 'Ancient DNA from the oldest modern humans found in Europe,' Dr Huang said this month, 'showed closer similarity to Asians rather than Africans.' Above, a map of genetic differences showing how close ancient Europeans and Asia DNA has proven to be (bottom region) Evidence that has emerged from other academic disciplines, including linguistics and kinship anthropology, has tended to bolster the theory too, Dr Huang said. That has included analysis of the remarkably complete 'Dali skull', uncovered in 1978 in the China's Dali County in Shaanxi Province. This 260,000-year-old skull, unearthed with its face and brain case still in tact, was scrutinized by experts from Texas A&M University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2017, who found it shares many characteristics with modern humans. The 'Dali skull' was found to be notably similar to what had once been the earliest known fossil of Homo sapiens, found 6,200 miles away in Morocco. Rather than pick a side in the 'out of Africa' vs 'out of East Asia' debate, these researchers tried to pick a compromise route. Homo erectus (skull pictured left, reconstruction pictured right) is thought to have been a key early human ancestor in our own evolution. The Chinese 'Dali' skull was originally thought to be from Homo erectus, but the 2017 analysis shows it is remarkably similar to Homo sapiens 'I think gene flow could have been multidirectional, so some of the traits seen in Europe or Africa could have originated in Asia,' Texas A&M Professor Sheela told New Scientist. But, for context, the dominant 'out of Africa' hypothesis on human origin has long maintained that modern humans first appeared in southern Africa only around 50,000 years ago hundreds of years after the 'Dali' Homo sapien lived and died. 'The out-of-Africa advocates are basically silent at the moment because they have made almost no progress in the last 10 years,' Dr Huang told the South China Morning Post. Scientists have also found the skull of an ancient human in China - homo julurensis - that would have had the biggest brain of any known hominin based on the abnormal size of its skull (above as digital renders). This smart ancient human may also bolster Dr Huang's theory By comparing skull fragments found in China (above), experts estimate that homo julurensis would have had a skull volume of 1700 ml - much larger than any other known hominin This growing body of corroborating evidence has been a cause for optimism for Dr Huang and his fellow proponents of the East Asia theory. In the eight years since Dr Huang and his team first presented their 'out of East Asia' theory at an international academic conference in 2016, he has been unable to find an academic journal outside of China that is willing to publish the theory. 'We tried to submit the paper to many journals and were rejected, so we gave up,' Huang said. 'Any intellectual who wants to overturn popular opinion will experience the same difficulties,' he opined. 'But it's fine as long as what you're promoting is true and you don't care how long it takes [to be accepted].' Winter tourists at Disney World in Orlando, Florida caught a glimpse of a 'glowing red' UFO streaking upward in the night sky like a falling star in reverse. A parkgoer was capturing the scene inside Epcot when the crowd turned and began pointing to the illuminated object in the sky. The video was posted on social media where users are sure the object was an 'orb'-like unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) of extraterrestrial origin. One user on X commented: 'Yet more even bizarre aerial phenomena witnessed again by tens of thousands of people. They' clearly want us to all see it now' While the bizarre sighting may have sparked fears of an alien encounter, others on social media were quick to point out that the glowing streak was likely a SpaceX rocket that launched from Cape Canaveral. The clip was taken on December 16 and a Falcon 9 rocket blasted off that night at 7:52pm ET. After stunning Disney parkgoers with the spectacle, Falcon 9's reusable first stage booster reportedly came back to Earth about 8.5 minutes after launch executing a landing on the drone ship 'A Shortfall of Gravitas' in the Atlantic. Winter tourists at Disney World in Orlando caught a glimpse of a 'glowing red' UFO streaking upward in the night sky like a falling star in reverse. 'Look what's in the skies about EPCOT tonight!!' one park patron posted to social media, pointing in wonder at the apparent craft Amateur investigators to Disney World's glowing red UFO have been baffled: 'I've seen a lot of shooting stars,' one observer posted. 'None have ever glowed red. It's not a shooting star. It's not firework' The Falcon 9 rocket launched as part of mission RRT-1, an effort that included the transport of an advanced GPS satellite into orbit for the US military branch. SpaceX is currently under contract to launch three of these GPS-3 satellites in total, with the first launched nearly a year prior, back in January 2023. Below the original TikTok video of the odd sight about Disney World's EPCOT Center, posted by user @DisneyDads, some locals were keen to share their familiarity with what a SpaceX launch looks like locally. 'That's Space X,' former Disney theme park employee Brandon Harper posted to the video. 'I live in Orlando, eight miles from Disney.' But that did not stop others from proposing more exotic theories. 'Google US Navy Laser Creates Plasma 'UFOs,'' one TikTok user advised. 'They are using the plasma balls to create heat to attract heat seeking missiles instead of hitting our drones. Our drones are testing.' Soon other Disney fans - who were facing away from the unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) - can be seen swiveling their heads to see the strange sight with their own eyes Another user simply posted: 'Santa.' The episode appears to be just one of multiple cases from this month when a SpaceX launch was visible from the Magic Kingdom. A park patron, who goes by Armand Luigi, Esq. on social site X.com, visited Disney on December 23, 2024 and reported seeing a similar eerie red glowing streak across the sky that was timed to SpaceX's mission to launch 21 Starlink satellites late that night. The apparent rocket flames are visible in the video, even through the red haze of the park's nearby tiki torch flames. 'I was there and took this video in Epcot, Disney WORLD,' Luigi said in his post. 'We looked it up while it was happening, and it was a SpaceX Launch.' Many still remain unconvinced that the object has been concretely identified however, with one observer claiming the video was a forgery: 'It's called CGI,' he said. As 2024 draws to a close this evening, millions of Britons will have their eyes to the skies in search of fireworks. But any New Year's Eve displays will pale in comparison to nature's greatest light show. The Northern Lights will be visible across huge parts of the UK tonight, the Met Office has revealed. The lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are set to appear as a huge coronal mass ejection (CME) strikes Earth. Usually, the Northern Lights are only seen in the auroral oval - a ring of light that encircles the polar caps. However, the Met Office predicts that they could be visible much further south this evening. 'The auroral oval is likely to remain at background levels initially,' it explained. 'However, from 31 Dec, a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) is forecast to arrive at Earth with a risk of G1-G2/Minor-Moderate geomagnetic storms which could produce visible aurora across Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England.' The Northern Lights will be visible across huge parts of the UK tonight, the Met Office has revealed. Pictured: The Northern Lights over Portobello, near Edinburgh, in October In terms of timings, the Met Office predicts that the Northern Lights will peak over the UK at around 21:00, although they may still be visible through until about 03:00 tomorrow morning The sun is at the maximum phase of its 11-year cycle, making solar surges and northern lights more frequent. Over the last 24 hours alone, numerous coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have been observed leaving the solar surface. 'Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Suns corona,' the NOAA explained. 'CMEs travel outward from the Sun at speeds ranging from slower than 250 kilometers per second (km/s) to as fast as near 3000 km/s. 'The fastest Earth-directed CMEs can reach our planet in as little as 15-18 hours. 'Slower CMEs can take several days to arrive. They expand in size as they propagate away from the Sun and larger CMEs can reach a size comprising nearly a quarter of the space between Earth and the Sun by the time it reaches our planet.' Most of the CMEs over the last 24 hours have been considered far-sided, meaning they won't strike Earth. However, astronomers have discovered one heading our way which could spark Northern Lights just in time for New Year's Eve. Most of the CMEs over the last 24 hours have been considered far-sided, meaning they won't strike Earth. However, astronomers have discovered one heading our way which could spark Northern Lights just in time for New Year's Eve. Pictured: Northern Lights seen in Wales in May Here in the UK, the Northern Lights could be visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northern England. Pictured: Aurora over Lancashire in May Unfortunately, the weather forecast for this evening isn't looking great, which could scupper your plans to see the Northern Lights (pictured over Tynemouth in May) 'A filament eruption (arc of plasma) was observed in imagery within the vicinity of a sunspot region located in the southeast quadrant,' the Met Office explained. 'This produced a partial halo CME, which has been analysed as potentially being Earth-directed, with an expected arrival at Earth on Day 1 (31 Dec).' Here in the UK, the Northern Lights could be visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northern England. In terms of timings, the Met Office predicts that the Northern Lights will peak over the UK at around 21:00, although they may still be visible through until about 03:00 tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, the weather forecast for this evening isn't looking great, which could scupper your plans to see the Northern Lights. The Met Office forecasts heavy rain and strong winds in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England, plus some snow in parts of Scotland. Over in the US, colorful auroras are predicted to appear in Alaska, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. Parts of Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Iowa and New York may also get a piece of the view. The Met Office forecasts heavy rain and strong winds in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England, plus some snow in parts of Scotland For the best chance of seeing the spectacle, wait for clear skies to get dark and then go outside, ideally away from bright city lights. Taking a picture with a smartphone camera may also reveal hints of the aurora that aren't visible to the naked eye. The sun's active period is expected to last for at least another year, though scientists won't know when solar activity peaked until months after the fact. Astronomers are monitoring this week's solar storms for possible minor disruptions to high-frequency radio communications, which are used by airlines and amateur radio operators. If you're a fan of stargazing, make sure you keep an eye on the skies over the next few weeks. You'll soon have a rare opportunity to watch as a new star is born in the heavens. The 'blaze star' T Coronae Borealis is set to flare into life any day now, going from invisible to as bright as the North Star overnight in a spectacular nova. Once the nova appears, it will be visible to the naked eye for a couple of days before disappearing for another 80 years. Dr Rebekah Hounsell, a NASA expert on nova, said: 'There are a few recurrent novae with very short cycles, but typically, we don't often see a repeated outburst in a human lifetime, and rarely one so relatively close to our own system.' Dr Hounsell adds that this is 'a once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity to get front-row seats to a truly special cosmic event. Unfortunately, astronomers have been unable to pinpoint exactly when it will spring into view. However, Lord Martin Rees, the current Astronomer Royal and former president of the Royal Society and a fellow of Trinity College at Cambridge University, told The Telegraph that it could be any day now, addding that it is perhaps 'slightly overdue'. If you're a fan of stargazing, make sure you keep an eye on the skies over the next few weeks. You'll soon have a rare opportunity to watch as a new star is born in the heavens Stargazers will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the birth of a new star as the 'Blaze Star' T Coronae Borealis flares into life (artist's impression) To spot this unique phenomenon, all you need to do is to head out on a dark, clear night and look to the North East. The blaze star will appear in a faint constellation called the Northern Crown, or Corona Borealis, between the constellations of Bootes and Hercules. But if this is a bit tricky to spot, there is a method to help narrow down your search using some brighter stars in the sky. First, look for the Big Dipper, sometimes called the Saucepan or Plough, and follow the curve of the 'handle' till you find a bright reddish star above the eastern horizon. From that star, which is called Arcturus, look to the North East on the same level and you should spot another bright star called Vega. Halfway between these two, you will be able to find a faint curl of seven stars - this is the Northern Crown where the Blaze Star will appear. Of course, it will be a lot easier to find the star constellation once the blaze star has appeared as it should be one of the brightest in the sky. For the best viewing conditions make sure to get far away from any sources of light that could ruin your view. To find the start look for the constellation of Corona Borealis which is between Hercules and Bootes in the North East That might mean getting away from city lights where possible and avoiding using your torch while your eyes adjust to the darkness. The star will be visible to the naked eye but you will be able to see more if you use a pair of binoculars or a small telescope. There is no way of knowing exactly when the star will come to life, and even scientists are eagerly waiting for any signs of activity. It is predicted that T Coronae Borealis should appear sometime between now and September, but that could happen any day. Although the term 'nova' comes from the Latin for 'new star' it will actually only appear that a new star has been created. In reality, what we will see is the moment that a very faint star 3,000 light years from Earth suddenly becomes brighter. T Coronae Borealis is a binary system nestled in the Northern Crown constellation, which means that it consists of two stars locked in orbit around each other. One of those stars is a vast but cool red giant, while the other is a white dwarf - a hot, dense remnant of a dead star about the size of the Earth but containing the same mass as our Sun. To find the star follow the handle of the big dipper (shown here from the Northern Hemisphere) and look for a reddish star named Arcturus. The blaze star should appear halfway between this star and another bright star to the North East called Vega T Coronae Borealis is a binary system, meaning that is actually made up of two stars locked in orbit with one another (artist's impression) As these stars orbit, the white dwarf is slowly devouring its neighbour, stripping the hydrogen from its atmosphere. As this hydrogen piles up around the white dwarf it builds up massive pressure and heat. When enough matter falls into the star at once, it triggers an enormous thermonuclear explosion so bright we can see it from Earth, blasting away the built-up material. But, unlike a supernova which happens as a star dies, the white dwarf is left intact so that the process can begin again. Because this build-up takes about 80 years, T Coronae Borealis flares on a regular cycle, making it a recurrent nova. The first time the star was spotted was more than 800 years ago in 1217 when a man named Burchard, abbot of Ursberg, Germany, spotted 'a faint star that for a time shone with great light.' This is also how scientists know that the star is set to blaze again since it is following the same pattern as it did in 1866 and 1947. In those cases, the star first grew brighter before suddenly fading away in anticipation of the big bang. Scientists have been watching T Coronae Borealis grow brighter again since 2015 until it suddenly dimmed in March last year. When it finally blows, it could grow up to 600 times brighter based on these previous flares. Since T Coronae Borealis is quite close to Earth and flares regularly, it is also a great chance for scientists to learn more about novae. The nova will be watched carefully by scientists all around the world using the James Webb Space Telescope, the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope, and many others. Dr Elizabeth Hays, chief of the particle physics laboratory at NASA Goddard, says this means the help of amateur stargazers will be vital to catch the first moments of the explosion. 'We'll observe the nova event at its peak and through its decline, as the visible energy of the outburst fades,' she said. 'But it's equally critical to obtain data during the early rise to eruption so the data collected by those avid citizen scientists on the lookout now for the nova will contribute dramatically to our findings.' A 'workbook' created by a secret US Army program claimed to have cracked the code for reducing pain signals in the body by repeating a five-digit number. Drafted by the Monroe Institute of Applied Sciences in 1977, this 'Gateway Intermediate Workbook' was just one training aid that the private group supplied to US Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) for metaphysical spycraft. On page 14 of the 21-page document, which was declassified by the CIA in 2003, includes a section of 'daily tools' to reduce pain signals, remember life experiences and 'charge the body for great speed and strength.' While many people attempt to reduce pain with medication, the report states that it can be achieved in minutes using just your mind. 'To reduce pain signals,' the once secret training document advised, 'look with your closed eyes at the part of your body which is the source of pain signals.' 'As you look, repeat in your mind the number 55515. 'When you do these two things, the pain signals will slowly reduce until they are no longer important.' The meditation training was part of a series of top secret programs funded by the CIA from roughly 1972 to 1995, which explored methods of expanding consciousness and human potential for spies and special ops teams. Drafted by the Monroe Institute of Applied Sciences in 1977, this 'Gateway' workbook was just one training aid the private group supplied to US Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) for a metaphysical spycraft. Above, a diagram from the workbook The document claims that if you close your eyes, look at where your pain is and repeat a five-digit number, the pain will leave your body Many of these projects, with names like 'Star Gate' and 'Grill Flame,' focused on psychic espionage or the 'remote viewing' of distant areas of interest in time and space. But others had more tangible, physical aims, like the workbook. 'You are learning even greater ways to develop and control your physical self through the application of your total being,' the document reads. 'You will be able to use them whenever you desire.' The workbook also described a method 'to charge the body for great speed and strength,' guiding US Army INSCOM personnel to 'close your eyes, inhale deeply, think of the physical act to be performed and the strong energy of red.' It would be as simple as that, according to the Monroe Institute's team: 'As you exhale, open your eyes and perform the act you wish to accomplish.' Another 'daily tool' claimed to help subjects retrieve lost memories. 'To remember any part of your life experience, close your eyes and touch softly the fingers of your right hand to the center of your forehead,' reads the document. 'When you do this, you recall and remember immediately that which you consciously desire.' Today, the Monroe Institute's unclassified approach to pain management still retains its focus on meditation now assisted by tonal recordings it calls Hemi-Sync (short for Hemispheric Synchronization) which play sound at specific frequencies. Hemi-Sync's 'audio-guidance technology' promotes synchronization between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, the institute claims, to enhance consciousness. Above, Monroe Institute founder Robert Monroe at a soundboard where he worked on the audio frequencies that are at the heart of his Hemi-Sync's 'audio-guidance' tech, which synchronizes left and right hemispheres of the brain, he claimed, to enhance consciousness Citing work published by the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2016, the institute now holds the position that 'meditation can teach you to live in your discomfort which, ultimately, can teach your brain to override those messages of pain and allow you to feel relief.' Six years after the 1977 'Gateway Intermediate Workbook' was drafted, US Army INSCOM commissioned a report on the Monroe Institute's Gateway process. US Army Lieutenant Colonel Wayne M McDonnell, author of this mind-bending 1983 Pentagon study, recommended the then-secretive process as 'a training system designed to bring enhanced strength, focus and coherence... to alter consciousness.' 'There is a sound and rational basis in terms of physical science parameters for considering Gateway to be plausible in terms of its essential objectives,' he reported. Joe McMoneagle a Vietnam veteran who served as Remote Viewer No1. in one of INSCOM's psychic spy programs now sits on the Board of Advisors and works as a 'Gateway' trainer for the Monroe Institute today. The mind-bending official Pentagon study was commissioned to better understand what officials' Army intelligence colleagues were doing by sending personnel to a small institute in Charlottesville, Virginia - The Monroe Institute - to study the group's 'Gateway Experience' But, sometimes, according to McMoneagle, the Gateway techniques mastered at the Monroe Institute have caused the veteran psychic spy pain as well as relief. In one unsettling instance, Remote Viewer No.1 was tasked with seeing a distant 'UFO target' with his mind's eye, only to encounter an apparently equally psychic and hostile 'entity.' 'I had a sense that something reached inside my being and strummed a nerve ending that instantly made me ill,' McMoneagle confessed in a 2021 interview. 'I felt I was going to projectile vomit and found myself slam bang back in my body sitting bold upright and I collided heads with my monitor,' he continued. Looking back on the episode, which left him and a colleague both 'holding our heads in pain,' McMoneagle said his experiences with Gateway's work have left him and his outlook on the nature of the world forever changed. 'You have to start wondering where reality begins and ends when you get involved in these kinds of things,' he said. 'For me this experience was very real but I can only report it.' Fears about 'Kessler Syndrome' are growing as there are more than 130 million pieces of space junk orbiting Earth that could smash into satellites at any moment. Named after American astrophysicist Donald Kessler who first warned of its risks in 1978 Kessler Syndrome is a chain reaction of space junk collisions. This theoretical 'domino effect' would create a cascade of more dangerous space junk, as each collision generates more debris upon impact with more and more orbital platforms, increasing the likelihood of future impacts. The end result would be a cloud of space junk surrounding the Earth, blocking ground-based telescopes and cutting off operations for all technology that relies on satellites, including weather forecasts, GPS and television. Paul Lynam, an astronomer for the University of Californias Lick Observatory, said that the event will not be a 'remote, out-there kind of thing,' but 'would affect everybody on the planet.' And one new study suggests it could occur before 2050. Right now, in low-Earth orbit (LEO), about 1,000 collision warnings are issued daily to alert telecoms, governments, scientists and others about the risks to their hardware. Scientists have warned that metallic space debris could also disrupt Earth's magnetosphere, exposing all life to deadly cosmic rays. Ex-NASA physicist Sierra Solter-Hunt told DailyMail.com that metal particles from these shattered satellites, booster rockets and other space trash could 'distort or trap the magnetic field' that keeps Earth's atmosphere from escaping. Named after astrophysicist Donald Kessler - who first warned of its risks in 1978 - Kessler Syndrome basically describes a 'space junk' chain reaction, in which hardware smashing into each other in orbit creates runaway destruction. Above: a NASA map of known space junk Ex-NASA physicist Sierra Solter-Hunt has warned that cheap satellite 'megaconstellations' like Elon Musk's Starlink could disrupt Earth's magnetosphere - exposing all life to deadly cosmic rays. She's called for more studies on 'the accumulation of metal dust from the space industry' Although Solter-Hunt noted it is an 'extreme case,' such a layer of charged metal dust could lead to 'atmospheric stripping' akin to the ancient fates of Mars and Mercury. But the results would be apocalyptic, turning Earth into the lifeless wastelands that its celestial neighbors are today. 'All of the highly-conductive metal trash,' as she told DailyMail.com, 'is all settling in one region.' This region includes the ionosphere and plasmasphere, which are already composed of highly charged ions of including oxygen, hydrogen and helium gases swirling in an electrically conductive plasma: a result of bombardment from the sun's cosmic rays. Solter-Hunt noted that electrical and magnetic interaction between these electrified gases and a fine cloud of metal trash, not unlike any other short circuit within complex and faulty wiring, could lead to a range of hard-to-predict and dangerous outcomes. 'Because all this metal trash is building up within a plasma environment to begin with,' she said, 'there are several ways this dust and debris can cause charging effects.' 'I think we need to stop using the ionosphere and atmosphere as a space industry trash bin immediately,' Solter-Hunt advised. 'It is wholly unstudied except for my paper and a few other papers that are starting to come out.' After working on NASA's comet-catching Stardust spacecraft research team in 2012, Solter-Hunt spent three years at the US Air Force Research Laboratory. Solter-Hunt drew on estimates that Musk's SpaceX is currently burning up over 2,755 lbs (1.3 tons) of internet satellite debris in Earth's atmosphere every hour, creating a metal layer of 'conductive particulate' in orbit. Thousands of Starlink satellites are now above Earth Large pieces of a SpaceX Crew-1 ship were also found in a field in Australia in 2022. This frayed piece of crash debris (pictured) shows its exposed carbon fiber and studded metal bolts 'We are at about 10,000 satellites [in orbit] right now, but in 10 to 15 years there are likely going to be 100,000,' Solter-Hunt noted. 'By the time we get to 100,000 I think it could be too late,' she said, 'in terms of this unplanned geoengineering experiment that is going to occur.' Only about 40,500 pieces of that debris are greater than four inches, according to the European Space Agency (ESA). The vast majority is between 0.4 to 0.04 inches long. Seattle-based scientist Sierra Solter-Hunt (pictured) believes floating, metallic space junk will likely settle in the upper part of the ionosphere - some 50 to 400 miles above the Earth's surface - weakening its magnetic field But most of this 'space junk' is moving extremely fast, buzzing Earth at around 18,000 mph or nearly seven times faster than a speeding bullet, according to NASA. While only 650 major collision accidents have been reported since 1957, 'the number of objects in space that we have launched in the last four years has increased exponentially,' according to planetary scientist Vishnu Reddy. 'Unless we do something, we are in imminent danger of making a whole part of our Earth environment unusable,' Dan Baker, the director of the University of Colorado's Atmospheric and Space Physics lab, warned during a conference this December. But according to Reddy, a professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, the risk of catastrophic space junk is worse at higher and more stable 'geosynchronous orbits.' Named because satellites at this altitude hover over one location back on Earth, orbiting in unison with the planet's own spin, geosynchronous orbit (GEO) is home to billions of dollars worth of government and private communications satellites. Critical systems including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA's) weather-tracking GOES satellites, Pentagon spy platforms, DirectTV and SiriusXM satellite radio all operate in GEO about 22,236 miles out in space. And unlike craft orbiting in LEO, space-based platforms in GEO are unlikely to harmlessly burn up as they fall back to Earth anytime soon. A two-pound cylinder from a NASA battery pallet (pictured) released by the International Space Station in 2021 crashed into a man's home in Naples, Florida three years later - in April of this year. The episode is only one dramatic example of the risks posed by space junk 'The most dangerous place where this [a 'Kessler Syndrome' event] could happen is in GEO,' Reddy told CNN. 'Because we have no way of cleaning it up in a quick way.' Unwanted and dangerous trash in GEO can remain in orbit literally for millennia increasing the risk of dangerous high-speed collisions in that orbit. Some also fear that the onset of 'Kessler Syndrome' might be a slow-motion train wreck, one where the orbital billiard balls are already in motion, even if humanity somehow halted all of its space programs. Kessler's original 1978 thought experiment proposed a scenario where the current inertia of space junk collisions, perhaps too tiny to be tracked from Earth today, are slowly building momentum adding more and more projectile debris into the system. 'If the Kessler syndrome starts to happen and we start to see a sort of cascade of collisions, we're going to see it in the smallest grains first,' space plasma physicist David Malaspina told this December's AGU meeting in DC. There are more than an estimated 130 million pieces of so-called 'space junk,' in orbit according to the European Space Agency, but only tens of thousands are tracked (pictured) 'These are our canary in the coal mine,' Malaspina, an assistant professor at the University of Colorado, advised. UC-Boulder physicist Dan Baker compared what has happened to the economic condition known as 'the tragedy of the commons.' 'Stated simply, the tragedy of the commons is that individuals acting rationally and individually according to their own self interest will deplete a shared resource, even if this is contrary to the best interests of the group,' Baker said. 'And I believe that we are watching the tragedy of the commons play out in low Earth orbit right before our eyes,' he told the AGU, according to Space.com. Rating: Happy New Harlan! Thriller writer Harlan Coben's murder mystery mind-twister Fool Me Once was the Netflix binge hit of 2024 after launching on New Year's Day and he's done it again. Weaving romance and betrayal with organised crime, Missing You stars Rosalind Eleazar as bereaved detective Kat Donovan, finding out that she can't trust anyone in her life. Her fiance Josh (Ashley Walters) vanished from her life after her father Clint, also a copper, was killed. But when she finally tries to find new love and, at the urging of her best friend Stacey (Jessica Plummer), logs onto a dating app, her first match is with... Josh. The man who ghosted her and erased himself from social media is now online and available again. Coben excels at these high-concept thrillers, where the plot hinges on big 'what if' idea. Happy New Harlan! Thriller writer Harlan Coben's murder mystery mind-twister Fool Me Once was the Netflix binge hit of 2024 after launching on New Year's Day and he's done it again Fool Me Once did it by asking, 'What If a woman looked at the video feed from her baby's nursery, and saw the husband she thought was dead?' Set in Manchester (and not the New York of the original novel), Missing You is even more compelling, because its hook is one that tortures every broken-hearted dater: 'What If the person who dumped you came back into your life... and threatened to wreck it all over again?' Just to emphasise the irony, Kat's favourite karaoke number with Josh was Missing You by 1980s hairspray rocker John Waite. Stacey, a private investigator who specialises in setting honeytraps for unfaithful husbands, warns Kat against making a fool of herself. 'Nothing good ever comes from getting on the ex bus,' she says. But Stacey is keeping secrets of her own. That's one of the pleasures of these addictive dramas no one is ever what they seem. You can't blame Kat for wanting to rekindle her connection with Josh. Her current love life is a succession of hideous one night stands. As the series opens, she's having a drink with a vacuous gym bunny, played by former boy bander Matt Willis (who is plainly having huge fun sending himself up). Reluctant to tell him she's a police officer, Kat claims to be an air hostess who wants to 'make the world a better place'. Weaving romance and betrayal with organised crime , Missing You stars Rosalind Eleazar as bereaved detective Kat Donovan, finding out that she can't trust anyone in her life James Nesbit also makes an appearance as a gangland villain Matt flexes a bicep and explains, 'That's exactly why I work out so much. You know, it's not for me. It's for everyone else.' Just as she's inviting him back to her place, a chef goes berserk with a meat cleaver and Kat has to disarm him, setting off all the sprinklers in the process. Missing You is that kind of thriller overblown and teetering on the edge of farce, but getting away with it because the action is so fast and the stakes are so high. It also boasts a stellar cast. Marc Warren has a brilliantly chilling scene as the hitman serving life for killing Kat's father (Lenny Henry, seen in flashback scenes). The killer, Monte Leburne, is dying of cancer in the prison hospital. Kat pulls strings to see him and demand answers. Warren, best known to TV viewers as Amsterdam detective Van Der Valk, has a otherworldly aura, emphasised by pallid make-up, and this one scene alone makes the opening episode of Missing You well worth seeing. The most gloriously weird of the bit-parts goes to Steve Pemberton, in full-on League Of Gentlemen mode Like a corpse wired up to a million-volt battery, Warren can go from zombie to bolt upright terror in the flick of a switch. Samantha Spiro, as a prison nurse with unfettered access to the jail's drug cabinet, adds to the manic atmosphere. James Nesbit plays a gangland villain suspected of hiring Leburne to carry out assassinations. Rosalind Eleazar has her work cut out keeping pace with such a strong cast, all of them at full throttle. Her boss is played by Richard Armitage, her auntie by Jo Martin... that's a lot of competition. But the scenes when she isn't being pushed hard are weaker for instance, when a creepy teenager who knows too much about her breaks into her flat before making a half-hearted effort to outrun her. The most gloriously weird of the bit-parts goes to Steve Pemberton, in full-on League Of Gentlemen mode. Kat's fiance Josh (Ashley Walters) vanished from her life after her father Clint (Lenny Henry, pictured), also a copper, was killed With a spaniel on his lap as he plots his evil schemes, he's the farmer at the centre of the story's sub-plot. His accomplice is a tractor driver with a tazer, a burly rural type in wellies, like Caleb from Clarkson's Farm turned bloodthirsty psychopath. No spoilers about what Pemberton's really up to, but he poses as a puppy breeder who stalks the people who come to him for pets. The introductory scene in the second episode, in which he humiliates a suburban family with sadistic glee, is worthy of his macabre comedy series Inside No 9. Missing You is available to stream on Netflix on New Year's Day Craig Conover saw wedding bells in his future with Paige DeSorbo just weeks before their unexpected split after three years together. On Monday, Paige announced the breakup, keeping the exact reasons private, while Craig has yet to address it publicly. The 35-year-old Southern Charm star shared with People earlier this month that he had quit drinking, motivated by a desire to 'become more of a husband and father material' for the Summer House alum, 32. 'We're playing the long game. It would be easy to go for instant gratification, but the foundation that we're building is so that we die together one day, not just make it fun,' Craig said on December 5, speaking about their relationship. Confident about their future at the time, he added, 'We know we're going to get married one day, and when it happens, it'll be a lot of fun, but whenever that is, who knows?" Looking ahead, Craig also reflected on their plans for family life. Craig Conover seemed ready to tie the knot with Paige DeSorbo just weeks before their unexpected split after three years together; (seen in 2023) The 35-year-old Southern Charm star shared earlier this month that he had quit drinking, motivated by a desire to 'become more of a husband and father material' for the Summer House alum, 32 'Weve got a couple years probably until we start having kids, and then we'll have to figure it out,' he said, adding with a laugh, 'But I've really taken to this normal role now of being a happy wife, happy life.' He also reflected on their long-distance relationship, emphasizing their commitment to making it work. 'Finding your person is the hard part,' he said, adding that they plan to figure out logistics later, with the goal of staying home with their future children as much as possible. Meanwhile, Paige left fans reeling when she shared the split news on her Giggly Squad podcast on Monday, describing the breakup as amicable while staying guarded about the specific reasons behind it. Fighting back tears, the reality star admitted discussing the breakup publicly felt 'weird,' but she made it clear she holds only positive feelings for Conover. 'I love him. I think he loves me. I think we will remain friends,' she said, adding, 'No one did anything. It wasnt a bad thing.' DeSorbo went on to describe their decision as a mature one, saying, 'I think we both were just being really mature and saying what we want and what we didnt want. And I think thats extremely powerful to be able to voice how youre feeling in real time and what you want for your future.' One distraught fan took to Twitter to post, 'i am actually sad over this. i really thought at some point she would come around and actually commit to him. but will make for some good show as he navigates through the break up.' Summer House star Paige DeSorbo and Southern Charm star Craig Conover have called it quits after three years together 'Craig and I have decided to no longer be together,' DeSorbo revealed during Mondays episode of her and Hannah Berners Giggly Squad podcast; Pictured June 2022 Another wrote, 'Aww thats sad I really thought they would be together for a long time.' Yet another chimed in, 'Craig was definitely ready for marriage and maybe Paige wasnt at that point yet. Plus I dont think either wanted to move. Its too bad they were a cute couple.' Paige remained tight-lipped about the exact reasons behind her breakup with Craig but described the past few years as very transformative, noting that both she and Conover had experienced significant growth and change during their time together. While she didnt specify when they officially ended their relationship, the pair appeared to still be on good terms as recently as last month when they celebrated Thanksgiving at her parents home in upstate New York. Hes definitely the best boyfriend Ive ever had. Like, I can truly say that, DeSorbo shared, reflecting on their time together. He was a great boyfriend, and he did everything correct, and he never made me feel insecure or anything like that, so it almost is harder when no ones done anything to be mad about, and thats hard. As of now, Conover has yet to comment on the split. Trouble in paradise may have started brewing as far back as 2022 when Craig Conover admitted the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship with Paige DeSorbo. One distraught fan took to Twitter to post, 'i am actually sad over this. i really thought at some point she would come around and actually commit to him. but will make for some good show as he navigates through the break up' 'You know, long-distance is working for us. Were fortunate that were on the East Coast, so its only an hour flight, but it is getting harder and harder,' Conover told Page Six at the time. The Southern Charm star was based in South Carolina, while DeSorbo lived in New Yorka setup that, despite their efforts, wasnt without strain. Adding a touch of humor, Conovers co-star Shep Rose, who was part of the same interview, teased him for diving too quickly into relationships. 'Well, Craig, every time Craig dates a girl for longer than two weeks, he starts talking about baby names,' Rose, 42, joked. The couple officially went public with their romance on Instagram in December 2022 after months of swirling rumors and speculation. It's certainly been a big year for Adrian Portelli, who was never far from the headlines in 2024. And The Block billionaire, 35, has now taken to Instagram to share a video montage of his 'controversial' year. The post, which was set to the strains of the '90s Coolio hit Gangsta's Paradise, opened with a raft of TV news reports mentioning Portelli. The reports were referencing charges that were laid against him earlier this month over the conduct of his private lottery business LMCT+. The sobering images were then juxtaposed with shots of Portelli, who has an estimated net worth of more than $1billion, enjoying his very lavish lifestyle. In scenes reminiscent of a rap video, Portelli could also be seen popping bottles and hosting lavish parties. It's certainly been a big year for Adrian Portelli and the Block billionaire has taken to Instagram to share a video montage of his 'controversial' year that was His penchant for the finer things in life was also made abundantly clear, with Portelli hopping from a private jet to supercars and luxury yachts. Captioning the boastful post, Portelli revealed hit back at his critics. 'The more you win, the more people wanna take a shot,' he wrote. 'I say bring it on 2024.' The post was met with a flurry of comments from followers, with many praising Portelli's success. 'Haha it's incredible to watch you over the past 15 months! Well done,' one follower wrote. Another likened the scenes to something out of popular video game franchise Grand Theft Auto. 'Bro this looks like the end scene credits for when you successfully finish everything on GTA. F***ing movie bro,' they exclaimed. Another fan suggested that much of the controversy surrounding Portelli was due to jealousy. The montage, which was set to the strains of the '90s Coolio hit Gangster's Paradise opened with a raft of TV news reports mentioning Portelli The sobering images were then juxtaposed with shots of Portelli enjoying his very lavish lifestyle 'At the end of the day it comes down to jealousy! Half these people wouldn't know the meaning of hard work,' the fan wrote. 'You give back so much, they fail to highlight the good things. Australia although the lucky country, certainly is a country that just doesn't like seeing people succeed. 'Keep breaking the mould Adrian, I have so much respect for you.' It's certainly been a red letter year for Portelli - for better and worse. Others were quick to praise Portelli for the fact that his son Mercy, 11 months, never seemed to be far from his side. 'Love how you always have your son around,' one fan wrote. 'Shows your true family character. We in for a killer 2025.' Back in November, the man dubbed 'Mr Lambo' snapped up all five renovated properties from The Block's 20th season. He dropped a record-breaking $15.3million to secure the Phillip Island properties which his company LMCT+ later raffled off. In scenes reminiscent of a rap video, Portelli could be seen popping bottles and hosting lavish parties His penchant for the finer things in life was also made abundantly clear , with Portelli hopping from private jet to luxury supercars and yachts The post was met with a flurry of comments from followers, with many praising Portelli's success He announced the lucky winner of the massive giveaway last week after it was earlier marred by technology issues which forced him to postpone the announcement. Earlier this month, Portelli also gave away $150,000 worth of Coles vouchers to 1000 Sydneysiders. He also signalled some big moves in 2025, revealing plans to build a new hospital in the Western Sydney city of Penrith earlier this month. He said the hospital is being built for 'high physical needs patients' because there is a 'shortage' of medical assistance in the area for people in need. Meanwhile, Portelli hit the headlines earlier this month after being charged over the conduct of his private lottery business LMCT+. South Australia's Consumer and Business Services launched an investigation into the operations of the Melbourne businessman's lottery business in September last year. Just one day after the Coles giveaway, the SA government department confirmed it was prosecuting Mr Portelli and Xclusive Tech Pty Ltd, which trades as LMCT+. Portelli personally faces nine counts of conducting/assisting in the conduct of an unlawful lottery, and the company faces ten counts of the same charge, the courts confirmed. 'Bro this looks like the end scene credits for when you successfully finish everything on GTA,' one fan exclaimed, reverencing popular video game franchise Grand Theft Auto 'You give back so much, they fail to highlight the good things,' another fan wrote. 'Australia although the lucky country, certainly is a country that just doesn't like seeing people succeed' If convicted on all charges, he could face a maximum penalty of $190,000. The first mention of the case is scheduled for January 15 in the South Australian Magistrates Court. He has been accused by anti-gambling advocates of preying on low-income Aussies who pay up to $100 a month for lottery draws. But the company says it is simply a 'membership reward service' that generates millions of dollars for local businesses. It has more than 300,000 customers who pay a subscription fee, with options ranging from $20 to a $100 a month. Subscribers get discounts from partners such as Amazon, Temple & Webster and Elite Supplements - although the website only releases the details to people who sign up. The main attraction is the company's monthly lottery draws for cash, cars and homes. The last draw, on November 24, resulted in $1million going to one subscriber. Jason Momoa is officially switching gears within the DC Universe after playing fan favorite Aquaman for eight years. On Monday, the 45-year-old actor took to Instagram to reveal that he has turned the page on playing a superhero and is trying his hand as the villain Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow. Back in 2023, fans speculated that the Hawaiian star could be up for the role. At the time, Momoa said he had not been contacted to play Lobo but gladly accept an invitation to audition. 'Lobo was always my favorite. If they call me and ask me to play it? Its a f**k yeah,' he told Fandango at the time. 'But I havent received that call. So, I dont want to put any fake news out there.' Now in a full-circle moment, he reshared the same 2023 quote and simply penned in the caption, 'They called.' He is slated to act alongside Milly Alcock who is starring as the titular character. Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow will hit theatres on June 26, 2026. Jason Momoa is officially switching gears within the DC Universe after playing fan favorite Aquaman for eight years; seen in December 2023 He revealed that he has turned the page on playing a superhero and is trying his hand as the villain Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow Superman director and DC CEO James Gunn took to the comments section to congratulate the six-foot-four actor for his return to the DC franchise: 'Welcome, my friend.' Lobo Spanish for 'Wolf' first appeared in the Omega Men #3 comic in June 1983. The character was created by Roger Slifer and Keith Giffen. Per a fan description, Lobo is 'an intergalactic bounty hunter, the last Czarnian. Known for his colorful speech and rapid regeneration, he has been a nuisance more than a threat.' Monday's announcement signals a major shift for Momoa, who previously headlined the DC Aquaman films. The Aquaman franchise is considered to be over with the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom in 2023. And Momoa seemingly confirming that the future of further films in the beloved franchise 'is not looking good.' 'I love this character and [I would want to] play it for a long time,' he told ET in December 2023. Although he would be open to continue playing the aquatic superhero he thinks, 'Right now, Im like, "It's not looking too good."' And the actor also teased that he was interested in continuing to star in the DCU, but in different roles. Lobo Spanish for 'Wolf' first appeared in the Omega Men #3 comic in June 1983. The character was created by Roger Slifer and Keith Giffen He is slated to act alongside Milly Alcock who is starring as the titular character. Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow will hit theatres on June 26, 2026; seen in January 2024 The Aquaman franchise is considered to be over with the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom in 2023. And Momoa seemingly confirming that the future of further films in the beloved franchise 'is not looking good'; seen in December 2023 Monday's announcement signals a major shift for Momoa, who previously headlined the DC Aquaman films; seen in 2018 'If there's a place in their world for me, I would love to be a part of it,' he said. 'This is my home. Warner and DC is definitely my home.' Momoa is currently filming A Minecraft Movie in New Zealand alongside comedian Jack Black the film's first official trailer was recently released after the teaser received mixed reviews. The highly anticipated films will deliver a a fleshed-out view of the world of the popular video game. A Minecraft Movie will be released in theaters in international markets on April 2, 2025, and in North America on April 4, 2025. Jay-Z's attorney Alex Spiro said that the sexual assault case filed against the rapper earlier this month should be dismissed due to a number of issues linked to a combo of technicalities, expired deadlines, and the locations involved. Spiro said that Tony Buzbee - who is representing the Alabama woman who says she was raped by Jay-Z, 55, and Sean 'Diddy' Combs, 55, when she was 13 - glossed over critical details that nullify the case, TMZ reported Monday after reviewing legal documents. Jay-Z's accuser, who identifies herself as Jane Doe in court documents, said she was assaulted by the rapper and Combs at an MTV Music Awards afterparty in September of 2000. Spiro told the court he intends to file a motion to dismiss, citing the timing of the events in question, as the legal statute the woman is suing under had not been implemented until three months later in December of 2000, the outlet reported. Spiro said in legal documents that the statute 'can't be applied against the rapper retroactively, according to the outlet. The woman said in her legal filing she was living in Rochester in 2000 when she made her way to New York City and befriended a limousine driver who drove her to the party in a trek that took about 20 minutes. Jay-Z's attorney Alex Spiro said that the sexual assault case filed against the rapper earlier this month should be dismissed due to a number of issues linked to a combo of technicalities, expired deadlines, and the locations involved. The rapper, 55, was pictured in LA December 9 The alleged incident took place at an MTV VMAs afterparty in September of 2000, Jay-Z's accuser said. The rapper pictured months earlier during a July 4 bash in the Hamptons Spiro told the court that the 20-minute travel time essentially ensures that the alleged incident did not occur in New York City, again invalidating the lawsuit, the outlet reported. Spiro said in court documents that the lawsuit was filed outside the statute of limitations, as any legal claims about the alleged assault eclipsed an August 2021 deadline. Buzbee told TMZ in a statement Monday, 'These are technical arguments being made and the law is clearly on our side and the side of alleged victims. The law is well settled that we are correct.' He subsequently told Dailymail.com, 'Mr. Spiro likes to send a lot of letters. I dont think any of them merit comment.' Dailymail.com has also reached out to Spiro and reps for Jay-Z for comment on the latest in the developing story. The latest attempt to have the case dropped comes less than a week after a judge ruled Thursday that Jay-Z's accuser can proceed anonymously, for now, in her lawsuit against the rap moguls. In her written order, Judge Analisa Torres also chastised the lawyer representing Jay-Z for what she described as his combative motions and 'inflammatory language' against the plaintiff's lawyer, calling them inappropriate. The Manhattan jurist said the woman can proceed anonymously at this early stage of the litigation, but she may be required to reveal her identity at a later date, if the case proceeds. That would allow defense lawyers to collect facts necessary to prepare for trial. Torres also cited 'substantial interest' from the public. Jay-Z was supported by mother-in-law Tina Knowles, 70, wife Beyonce, 43, and daughter Blue Ivy, 12, at the Mufasa: The Lion King premiere, a day after the suit was filed Jay-Z's attorney Alex Spiro told the court he intends to file a motion to dismiss, citing the timing of the events in question. Pictured in July in Santa Fe, New Mexico Jay-Z's latest filing took aim at attorney Tony Buzbee, who was pictured in Van Nuys, California earlier this year Combs remains jailed in New York awaiting a criminal trial on federal sex trafficking charges. He also faces a wave of sexual assault lawsuits, many of which were filed by the plaintiff's lawyer Buzbee, the Texas attorney who says his firm represents over 150 people, both men and women, who allege sexual abuse and exploitation by Combs. The lawsuits allege many individuals were abused at parties in New York, California and Florida after receiving drug-laced drinks. Combs' lawyers have dismissed Buzbee's lawsuits as 'shameless publicity stunts, designed to extract payments from celebrities who fear having lies spread about them, just as lies have been spread about Mr. Combs.' Jay-Z has said in a statement that Buzbee is trying to blackmail him to settle the Alabama woman's allegations. Spiro asked the judge to dismiss the entertainer from the woman's lawsuit and he requested a hearing on the case for the day after he made his requests in writing on December 18. Citing an interview the plaintiff did on NBC-TV, Spiro wrote that the broadcast revealed 'glaring inconsistencies and outright impossibilities' in the plaintiff's story. For one thing, the woman said she traveled for five hours from Rochester to watch the music awards show on a jumbotron outside the VMA even though permits and pictures show there was no jumbotron at the event. Jay-Z's lawyers have cited a recent television interview with NBC News in which his accuser acknowledged inconsistencies in her story as a reason to toss the case Spiro also noted that the woman's father has said he does not recall driving from Rochester to pick his daughter up in New York City, as she says he did. The woman has admitted inconsistencies in her story. Torres wrote in her order Thursday that Spiro, who has been on the case less than three weeks, has submitted a 'litany of letters and motions attempting to impugn the character of Plaintiff's lawyer, many of them expounding on the purported "urgency" of this case.' Referring to Jay-Z by his legal last name, the judge added: 'Carter's lawyers relentless filing of combative motions containing inflammatory language and ad hominem attacks is inappropriate, a waste of judicial resources, and a tactic unlikely to benefit his client. The Court will not fast-track the judicial process merely because counsel demands it.' Jay-Z and Combs gained fame in the 2000s, emerging as wide-ranging entrepreneurs and two of the world's wealthiest rappers. Earlier this year, Forbes estimated Jay-Z's net worth to be $2.5 billion. The artists have collaborated over the years, with Jay-Z featured on Combs' debut album, No Way Out and Combs appearing on Jay-Zs sophomore album, In My Lifetime, Vol. 1. She's renowned for her role in Bridgerton, dressed in Regency Era fashion with tight corsets, statement sleeve dresses and elaborate hair. And Phoebe Dynevor is now tapping into 90s-era with a double denim look thanks to her new movie Famous - which she stars alongside Zac Efron. The actress, 29, said she's loving exploring nineties fashion and enjoying the nostalgia that comes from the decade of the thriller. Famous is based on the novel of the same name written by Blake Crouch - who is also known for penning Dark Matter. Speaking to NET-A-PORTERS digital title PORTER, Phoebe said: 'Im listening to so much '90s music, which is fun. And the clothes are so cool. 'Im wearing these low-waisted jeans that are, like, underneath my hip bone. I understand now why everyone had the butterfly, the back tattoo.' Phoebe Dynevor is now tapping into 90s-era with a double denim look thanks to her new movie Famous - which she stars alongside Zac Efron Phoebe is renowned for her role in Bridgerton, dressed in Regency Era fashion with tight corsets, statement sleeve dresses and elaborate hair She added: 'I think its so important to look back and watch old movies, listen to old music and keep expanding your view of the world.' Former Disney channel star Zac plays dual roles in the film, including a Hollywood heartthrob named James Jansen and a fan, Lance Dunkquist. The premise is: 'Lance Dunkquist has the face of a movie star. Not just any movie star - Lance has been mistaken for Hollywood star James Jansen 228 times.' 'And now Lance is about to go to LA to make his dream come true. No matter what it takes,' per an official IMDB synopsis. In September, it was announced that Bridgerton star Phoebe had joined the cast. The daughter of Coronation Street star Sally Dynevor shot to fame in December 2020 when she appeared as the co-lead of the first season of Bridgerton. She appeared again, albeit in a much smaller role, in season two, but was completely absent in season three - which she and fans lamented. Phoebe kicked off filming on a new $30million shark thriller blockbuster in Melbourne over the summer. The actress said she's loving exploring nineties fashion and enjoying the nostalgia that comes from the decade of the thriller Famous is based on the novel of the same name written by Blake Crouch - who is also known for penning Dark Matter Speaking to NET-A-PORTER, Phoebe said: 'Im listening to so much '90s music, which is fun. And the clothes are so cool' 'Im wearing these low-waisted jeans that are, like, underneath my hip bone. I understand now why everyone had the butterfly, the back tattoo', she added She added: 'I think its so important to look back and watch old movies, listen to old music and keep expanding your view of the world' Phoebe stunned in the new photoshoot as she opened up on her current life The actress has been busy shooting for the as-yet-untitled thriller in Mornington, south east of Melbourne. She joined the likes Gladiator star Djimon Hounsou filming scenes, according to The Herald Sun. Filming also took place in Victoria's Macedon Ranges, and Canterbury in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne as well as at Docklands Studios. While details surrounding the flick are still firmly under wraps, locals have started referring to the mystery thriller simply as 'the shark movie'. The film will revolve around a community that has to deal with shark attacks during a hurricane, The Hollywood Reporter previously reported. Phoebe will appear in the movie alongside Whitney Peak, who starred as Zoya Lott in the recent Gossip Girl remake, and Djimon Hounsou, who starred alongside Russell Crowe in Ridley Scott's epic Gladiator. The yet-to-be-named feature is being produced by Adam McKay and Kevin Messick's company HyperObject Industries, who are known for Don't Look Up, The Big Short and popular drama series Succession. The film will be directed by writer Tommy Wirkola, whose previous credits include schlock horror flick Dead Snow and Jeremy Renner thriller Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters. Travis Barker's daughter Alabama Barker, 19, was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital in connection with vape pen nicotine withdrawal about a month back. Alabama, 19, who is Shanna Moakler's daughter and Kourtney Kardashian's stepdaughter, was taken for medical help after she abruptly gave up the habit about a month back, insiders told TMZ Monday. After Alabama ceased using a vape, she felt 'panicked and unwell one day while all alone' and contacted 911, insiders told the outlet, and was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital. Insiders told TMZ that after medical personnel examined her, they chalked up her symptoms to 'nicotine withdrawal,' which is common with people who cease using in full immediately. Alabama was described by sources as 'an occasional vaper' who quit after she decided to explore a career in rap music. Alabama ditched the unhealthy habit on the advice of music industry professionals who told her the practice would impact her ability to perform. Travis Barker's daughter Alabama Barker, 19, on was rushed to an LA hospital in connection with vape pen nicotine withdrawal about a month back. Pictured in LA in February Alabama and her father, 49, were pictured in a selfie earlier this year Alabama last week showed off a number of her lavish gifts in a new TikTok, uploaded to her account. In her 'ultimate Christmas haul' video on Thursday, the 19-year-old, who is the youngest child of the Blink-182 drummer and his ex-wife Moakler, unveiled more than $80,000 worth of presents from her family. During the lengthy recording, the Heartbreaker hitmaker highlighted some of her favorite items, which included a $7,950 Balenciaga rhinestone shoulder bag, Chrome Hearts gloves, multiple diamond necklaces and a vintage Dior Boston bag. Another standout included her third Cartier Love bracelet from her father. 'Its kind of, like, a tradition now,' she said of her $29,200 bangle. 'Like, every year I get a better one.' She also praised her dad for gifting her a Enfants Riches jacket, which retails for $7,850. 'The details are just tea,' she said of the overcoat, before thanking Kris Jenner for gifting her a Chanel backpack. The gift from Jenner resells for upward of $3,466. Kourtney Kardashian's stepdaughter, Alabama Barker, showed off a number of her lavish gifts in a new TikTok In her 'ultimate Christmas haul' video, uploaded to her account on Thursday, the 19-year-old, who is the youngest child of Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and his ex-wife Shanna Moakler, unveiled more than $80,000 worth of presents from her family One standout included her third Cartier Love bracelet from her father Alabama also raved about getting a 'cute' Prada shearling mini pouch ($1,390) that she said she would keep in her car as well as a Jean Paul Gaultier pool coverup ($360), Balenciaga boots ($2,850), a Roberto Cavalli vintage jacket ($792), a Goyard carrier ($630), a Dolce and Gabbana catsuit (2,345) and Gucci heels Alabama also raved about getting a 'cute' Prada shearling mini pouch ($1,390) that she said she would keep in her car as well as a Jean Paul Gaultier pool coverup ($360), Balenciaga boots ($2,850), a Roberto Cavalli vintage jacket ($792), a Goyard carrier ($630), a Dolce and Gabbana catsuit (2,345) and Gucci heels. Before ending the video, she held up her 'favorite [gift] of all,' a black Hermes Birkin bag. According to Sotheby's, the designer purse ranges in price anywhere from $14,000 to $20,000. She also noted it was her second Birkin. 'This haul would literally pay my mortgage and all my debt,' one TikTok user commented. Another wrote: 'Ohhhh to be born into money.' 'The nicest gift was the Channel backpack from Kris! She has great taste!' a third weighed in. One fan, however, defended her. 'Why yall hating on her I mean at the end of the day shes a sweet girl and is so grateful why u guys rude its not all about money,' they wrote. In her TikTok, Alabama revealed that while she was feeling too sick to celebrate her birthday on Christmas Eve, she managed to rally for Christmas Day. During the lengthy recording, the Heartbreaker hitmaker highlighted some of her favorite items, which included a $7,950 Balenciaga rhinestone shoulder bag, Chrome Hearts gloves, multiple diamond necklaces and a vintage Dior Boston bag The diamond necklace above featuring her initials was a gift from her sister On her birthday, her father shared a sweet tribute, in which he called her his 'angel.' 'I cant believe Im saying that. Im so proud of you and I love watching you grow. Never settle, the stars arent too far away. Never give up, never give in. I love you unconditionally. I love you to the moon and back. Dad,' he captioned a slideshow of photos of her taken over the years. Her stepmom took to her Instagram Story to share a sweet bathroom mirror selfie of them together. In the snap, Alabama can be seen holding up a peace sign as Kourtney smiled at the camera. 'Happy happy birthday!' the reality star, 45, wrote on the image. 'You are a blessing to my life!' In addition to Alabama, Travis shares his son Landon, 21, and stepdaughter Atiana, 25, with Moakler. He and Kourtney welcomed their first child together, Rocky Thirteen in November 2023. She is also a mom to Mason, 15, Penelope, 12, and Reign, 10, who she shares with ex Scott Disick. As news circulated that Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt put an end to their bitter eight-year legal battle in reaching a divorce settlement Monday, a number of fans took to social media marveling over the amount of time and money it took to get to this point. 'So their divorce lasted longer than the marriage,' one Instagram user said of the union, while another added, 'They spent more time on this divorce than they spent being married.' One user said, 'Why did it take 8yrs?! Thats Ridiculous! That must of been so hard on the their children ... so sad,' while another said, 'It took them 8 years to resolve this. It seems they didn't really want to get divorced that much.' The divorce technically lasted nearly four times longer than the marriage, which began when the A-listers exchanged vows on Saturday, August 23, 2014 at the $164 million French winery they jointly own - and have battled over in the legal system - Chateau Miraval. They officially split two years and 28 days later when Jolie, 49, filed for divorce from Pitt, 61, on Monday, September 19, 2016. It has been more than eight years and three months from that date thru Monday, when the settlement was reached. (They were individually declared legally single in April of 2019.) As news circulated that Angelina Jolie, 49, and Brad Pitt, 61, put an end to their eight-year legal battle in reaching a divorce settlement Monday, a number of social media users marveled over the amount of time and money it took to get to this point. Jolie pictured in London December 14 Other Instagram users pointed out the significant monetary hits both A-listers took with legal fees amid the long-running court case. 'They both must have had great lawyers,' one user said. 'Lawyers can retire now.' Another commented that 'the attorneys won,' while another said 'those lawyers made some money!' Said one user: 'Sad the only ppl who got rich were the lawyers.' Some users speculated on the intense emotions involved on both sides in the long-running legal dispute centered around the winery. The Rose-producing winery and drawn-out divorce proceedings inspired puns comparing the split to the 1989 film The War of the Roses, the dark comedy which cast Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner as a couple in a nasty split. 'Their irreconcilable differences had multiple irreconcilable differences,' one user observed, while another said, 'That's some serious animosity.' Some users suggested the relationship was cursed from the outset, as it began during a timeframe Pitt had been wed to Jennifer Aniston. (His divorce to the Friends star, 55, was finalized in October of 2005, 10 months after they separated.) The divorce technically lasted nearly four times longer than the marriage, which began when the A-listers exchanged vows on Saturday, August 23, 2014 Other Instagram users pointed out the significant monetary hits both A-listers took with legal fees amid the long-running court case 'Thats karma for them both!!!!!' said one user. Another remarked, 'They got each other by cheating how did they think it would end up. i bet they are glad to be done with each other 8 years is a long time in limbo!' The former Hollywood duo officially signed off on the divorce paperwork on Monday, December 30. Jolie divorce attorney James Simon told DailyMail.com that the A-list actress is 'relieved this one part is over,' adding, 'Frankly, Angelina is exhausted. 'More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family.' Legal documents confirming the divorce have not yet been filed, the AP reported Monday, adding that a judge must approve the pact Pitt and Jolie have reached. While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing case regarding their battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France. The two have been locked in a bitter legal battle over Miraval after Pitt alleged Jolie sold her share of the winery to the Stoli Group in 2021 without his approval. Jolie subsequently countersued Pitt in September 2022. Some users commented on the extended nature of the divorce proceedings While the former power couple have finally settled their divorce, there is still the ongoing case regarding their battle over Chateau Miraval vineyard in France (pictured) Both sides have said they would be willing to take the Miraval case to a jury trial or mediation, a source told Daily Mail. Jolie has 'been trying hard to be light after a dark time,' a source with knowledge of the situation said. 'She doesn't speak ill of him publicly or privately,' the insider said. 'The kids have grown up seeing that some people have so much power and privilege that their voices don't matter. Their pain doesn't count. 'They have wanted her to speak up for herself, to defend herself over these years but she reminds them to focus on changing laws over telling public stories.' Jolie filed to end the marriage in September of 2016, just two years after tying the knot. They had dated 10 years before they decided to get married. It has since been alleged that the couple and their six children - Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 16 - had taken a private plane days prior to her filing in which Pitt had become physically abusive. Pitt was never charged in connection with the alleged incident, which took place on a flight from Europe to Los Angeles, following a probe from the FBI and Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. Jolie and Pitt have reached a settlement in their divorce, ending a bitter eight-year legal battle. Pictured in LA in November 2015 Some users suggested the relationship was cursed from the outset, as it began during a timeframe Pitt had been wed to Jennifer Aniston One insider told DailyMail.com 'she could have pressed charges against him.' 'She could have told the world what happened, she didn't. All she wanted was for their children to get the support they needed to heal. The insider said that 'Pitt successfully used his power and his privilege to cover up his conduct at his family's expense and even attempted to paint her as the reason why his relationship is so challenging with the children.' Despite the ongoing legal battle, Jolie and Pitt were deemed legally single in 2019. Pitt has been dating Los Angeles based jewelry designer Ines de Ramon, 34, for almost two years. Both Jolie and Pitt are Academy Award winners: She won Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her work in 1999s Girl, Interrupted, and was also nominated for her performance in 2008's Changeling. Pitt won Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for his work in 2019's Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood, and has past received nominations for his acting in films such as 2011's Moneyball, 2008's The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and 1995's 12 Monkeys. Tommy Dorfman appeared to announce her split from wife Elise Williams, a year after they secretly married. The 13 Reasons Why star, 32, indicated the potential split in an Instagram post from her 2024 recap. Dorfman who came out as a transgender woman in July 2021 shared a series of 20 images on Sunday, each accompanied by a reflective caption, with the first suggesting a possible breakup. 'Heartbreak feels good in a place like this (i wrote this entirely original line),' she captioned a melancholic photo of her in a bathtub. In the accompanying caption for a photo of her dog, she explained that she was living alone now, writing, 'fiona loves her new home and, while its just the two of us now, i think shes managing better than i.' There was also a cheeky snap of Tommy lifting her black skirt up to reveal her toned legs. The star captioned it, 'I sent this to a boy and got no response so thats good.' Tommy Dorfman, 32, appeared to announce her split from wife Elise Williams in a 2024 recap post on Instagram, where she talked about 'heartbreak' and shared she was living alone now It comes a year after the star who came out as a transgender woman in July 2021 quietly married Elise; they are seen in February She also shared an image of Succession actress Annabelle Dexter-Jones, crediting her for having 'kept me breathing and emotionally sober after one of the hardest weeks of my life.' She did not specify what made the time period so difficult. DailyMail.com has reached out to Dorfman's representatives for comment. Another snap saw a shirtless Dorfman with blood on her ear and chest, with the caption, 'looks worse than it feels.' There was also a snap of her with her dog, whom she called her, 'emotional support human.' In another image she was seen enjoying karaoke. The caption read, 'karaoke with @clips.split is vvvvv healing you all should try it sometime.' Dorfman quietly married Elise at the end of 2023 during a private concierge service ceremony in Los Angeles. She shared that she eloped with partner of three years in an Instagram post as well as an essay for Vogue. Dorfman and Williams met on dating app Hinge in 2021, and got engaged two months into dating. Dorfman shared a series of 20 images on Sunday, each accompanied by a reflective caption, with the first suggesting a possible breakup 'Heartbreak feels good in a place like this (i wrote this entirely original line),' she wrote at the start of her caption Another cheeky snap saw Tommy lifting her black skirt up to reveal her toned legs. The star captioned it, 'I sent this to a boy and got no response so thats good' In the accompanying caption for a photo of her dog, she explained that she was living alone now, writing, 'fiona loves her new home and, while its just the two of us now, i think shes managing better than i' She also shared an image of Succession actress Annabelle Dexter-Jones, crediting her for having 'kept me breathing and emotionally sober after one of the hardest weeks of my life.' She did not specify what made the time period so difficult There was also a snap of her with her dog, whom she called her, 'emotional support human' In another image she was seen enjoying karaoke. The caption read, 'karaoke with @clips.split is vvvvv healing you all should try it sometime' Dorfman also shared a joint post with Vogue that showed off the two sets of bridal dresses the pair wore for their elopement and the photoshoot that followed. 'I married my best friend and didnt tell anyone except @hunterabrams who came and photographed us towards the end of last year,' Dorfman wrote on her social media. 'A few weeks ago we decided to say lets celebrate this our way, so we something for @voguemagazine and @vogueweddings because we love each other and the world should know!!!! ok???! Dorfman added, 'And if you're mean to her i'll [knife emoji].' Meanwhile in her essay for Vogue, she shared that Elise is a private person who still doesn't follow her on Instagram, and discussed how they moved fast after meeting each other. 'We got engaged two months into dating. To our credit, we waited a full 12 months before moving in together, so you can't say we U-Hauled (though one might argue taking in a Great Dane puppy at our six-month mark was a smidge irresponsible).' 'That's the thing about falling in love though; your responsibility barometer isn't always where it should be. Love, for us, required that nauseating combination of naivete, delusion and fate.' Dorfman went on to share that Elise didn't want a big wedding, and that the pair bought their 'Folklore-coded' dresses off the rack at Dover Street Market. 'She fell in love with a Cecile Bahnsen set, and I, a Simone Rocha number. Off the rack, no tailoring, just right.' The actress then discussed how she and Elise eloped. 'Elise and I joked about same-day marriages,' she wrote. After doing a Google search, they discovered California offered same-day wedding services and confidential marriage records. Dorfman quietly married Elise at the end of 2023 during a private concierge service ceremony in Los Angeles The pair met on dating app Hinge in 2021, and got engaged two months into dating The I Wish You All the Best star announced that she was engaged to 'the person I'm going to spend the rest of my life' in August of 2022 That's when the pair decided to say 'I do' before heading to a concert later in the evening. Dorfman went on to say that after they got their elopement photos they 'wanted to share them with our friends and family and celebrate our love more publicly.' 'While we wont live our lives online in any way that isnt well-protected, we do see the benefit of celebrating our love with the worldand, frankly, the importance of people seeing trans and queer love,' the star added. The I Wish You All the Best star announced that she was engaged to 'the person I'm going to spend the rest of my life' in August of 2022 during an episode of Rachel Bilson's Broad Ideas podcast. At the time she didn't reveal the identity of her partner, and only shared that she's 'just a gay girl.' 'I fell in love with someone who doesn't fetishize me,' Dorfman added, while discussing the complexities of dating as a trans woman. The actress stated that Elise helps give her estrogen shots. 'My fiancee, she knew how, so she did it for me the first time. Then she was out of town and we FaceTimed and she walked me through it.' Her relationship with Williams came a year after her 2021 split from husband Peter Zurkuhlen, 36. They former pair got married in 2016 before Zurkuhlen filed for divorce from Dorfman in early 2022, six months after she announced her transition in July 2021. The star was previously married to Peter Zurkuhlen, 36. He filed for divorce from Dorfman in early 2022, six months after she announced her transition; seen in 2020 Following their split Dorfman shared that she decided to date women. 'I knew I was interested in women in a way that I hadn't really been aware of since high school,' she told Bilson. 'I had this unresolved, unexplored thing. I was like, "This is the year that I'm gonna go on some dates with girls and feel that out again, and not feel ashamed about it."' In 2022, she shared in a TikTok video documenting her fluid sexuality, in which she said that she 'went from being a straight boy to a gay boy to a non-binary person to a trans straight woman I thought to I guess I am a trans lesbian.' Rachel Zegler hit back at claims of her being 'romantically obsessed' with her co-star Kit Connor. The 23-year-old actress denied the accusation after a fan left a comment speculating about her relationship with her co-star in the Broadway play, Romeo + Juliet. The interaction happened in the comments section on her latest Instagram post, which was a compilation of her recent 'moments of joy' and included two photos of Connor, 20. One Instagram user speculated about their relationship below Zegler's carousel post, which the Golden Globe winner shared on Sunday, amid backlash for her shocking comments about Trump voters. 'I think Rachel is so obsessed with Kit Connor in a romantic way not just a friend way,' the comment read. Zegler who was once again caught in controversy when she appeared in the new Snow White trailer after being criticized for being 'too woke' addressed the rumors and replied: 'no! moving on.' Rachel Zegler hit back at claims of her being 'romantically obsessed' with her co-star Kit Connor The 23-year-old actress denied the accusation after a fan left a comment speculating about her relationship with her co-star in the Broadway play, Romeo + Juliet Over the weekend, she shared the photo series of behind-the-scenes of working on the Broadway revival of Romeo and Juliet, which produced by Tony Award-winning director Sam Gold. The cover photo of her post was a sexy swimsuit snap. As she posed on the beach with a relaxed expression on her face, she showed off her toned figure in a tiny, green bikini. Alongside the snaps, she wrote in her caption: 'moments of joy and dreams coming true. happy new year, all. be good to each other.' The second photo was of her cute interaction with Tommy Dorfman, her co-star in the Broadway play, when she was up on stage and making a playful face at the 32-year-old actress sitting off to the side. The third snap showed Zegler posing in front of a poster for her upcoming Disney movie, the live action remake of Snow White, ahead of its March 21 theatrical release. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes star also included a black-and-white mirror photo, snapped by Connor on his phone, as they posed in matching sweatshirts. Since she started working alongside Connor and promoting their Broadway play, fans have noticed their playful interactions and on-stage chemistry. The interaction happened in the comments section on her latest Instagram post, which was a compilation of her recent 'moments of joy' and included two photos of Connor, 20 One Instagram user speculated about their relationship below Zegler's carousel post, which the Golden Globe winner shared on Sunday 'I think Rachel is so obsessed with Kit Connor in a romantic way not just a friend way,' the comment read. Zegler addressed the rumors and replied: 'no! moving on.' However, both Zegler and Connor have been insistent that their relationship is strictly platonic and professional. Her comment underneath her own post garnered attention and she was praised for her direct, no-nonsense response in addressing the speculation surrounding their friendship. In Romeo + Juliet, Connor and Zegler star as the titular, lead characters, respectively. The production opened in October and will run until mid-February. Reflecting on the time she has been working on the Broadway production as well as her other projects, she shared more snapshots in her Instagram post. Another picture showed Zegler during rehearsals on a New York City rooftop, surrounded by microphones and a grand piano. She threw up peace signs as she flashed a bright smile. The West Side Story star also included a candid, action shot of her Romeo + Juliet co-star, Jasai Chase-Owens, giving her a piggy-back ride and the duo having fun as they sped across the stage. Having been working on the Broadway play for weeks, she also included photos of her dressing room door, which had a sign with her name on it alongside 'Juliet' and a daisy plastered in the center. Over the weekend, she shared the photo series of behind-the-scenes of working on the Broadway revival of Romeo and Juliet, which produced by Tony Award-winning director Sam Gold. The cover photo of her post was a sexy swimsuit snap The second photo was of her cute interaction with Tommy Dorfman, her co-star in the Broadway play, when she was up on stage and making a playful face at the 32-year-old actress sitting off to the side The third snap showed Zegler posing in front of a poster for her upcoming Disney movie, the live action remake of Snow White, ahead of its March 21 theatrical release Another picture showed Zegler during rehearsals on a New York City rooftop, surrounded by microphones and a grand piano. She threw up peace signs as she flashed a bright smile In the photo, Zegler pointed at the flower and puckered her lips in a playful manner. Then, in what appeared to be a rehearsal room, she was caught flashing a bright smile in a candid, black-and-white snap. She also posted a snap of her friends, Makena Reynolds and Ava Whiteley, at what appeared to be a late-night, rooftop get-together in the city. Zegler also posted a portrait of herself posing in a yellow Dior gown on stage at Broadway's Circle in the Square Theatre with flowers on her garb and also all around her. She also posted a snap of her friend and fellow actor, Ilda Mason, on her 35th birthday. Zegler also posted a photo of herself modeling a sexy, blue jumpsuit and posing outside of the theater where she is performing Romeo + Juliet. Having been working on the Broadway play for weeks, she also included photos of her dressing room door, which had a sign with her name on it alongside 'Juliet' and a daisy plastered in the center Then, in what appeared to be a rehearsal room, she was caught flashing a bright smile in a candid, black-and-white snap She also shared a stunning snap of her alongside Michael Kors while wearing Michael Kors Zegler also posted a photo of herself modeling a sexy, blue jumpsuit and posing outside of the theater where she is performing Romeo + Juliet Another photo showed her covered in fake blood during rehearsals for the play She also posted a snap of her friend and fellow actor, Ilda Mason, on her 35th birthday She also posted a snap of her friends, Makena Reynolds and Ava Whiteley, at what appeared to be a late-night, rooftop get-together in the city She included a snapshot of herself with teary eyes as she hugged Jack Antonoff, who wrote and produced the music for the revival play. Other photos showed her covered in fake blood during rehearsals, of Antonoff playing the piano on stage and her alongside Michael Kors while wearing Michael Kors. On set of a Cosmopolitan shoot, she shared a candid snapshot of her interaction with a puppy. She also shared a silhouette photo of her in her Snow White costume. She concluded her post with a snapshot of a playful backstage moment of Connor after he threw her over his shoulder and a stunning, solo portrait after getting glammed up. Cairo, Egypt (PANA) - The United Nations chief said Monday the situation in war-torn Gaza was appalling and apocalyptic, warning conditions faced by Palestinians in the territory may amount to the gravest international crimes The Sydney childhood home of AC/DC legends Angus and Malcolm Young has been demolished, in a move which has infuriated music fans. The property, located in the Sydney suburb of Burwood, was the first Australian home of rockers Angus, Malcolm and George Young, after they moved to Australia from Scotland in 1963. The modest home was purchased in February 2023 for $5.8million and demolished in recent weeks, leaving a vacant lot in its place. Furious fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment at the piece of rock history being bulldozed. 'Awful to see destruction of history not only for the Australian music and cultural history, but also a possible museum tourist destinations destroyed! Very sad!' one heartbroken fan wrote. 'How does this happen. An utter disgrace,' a second person added. The Sydney childhood home of AC/ DC legends Angus and Malcolm Young has been demolished, in a move which has infuriated music fans. Pictured: Angus performing in 1978 'They could have sold small pieces as souvenirs,' a third user chipped in. The Burwood Council revealed on their website the home had become somewhat of a tourist attraction for die-hard rock fans. 'At one stage in their early fame crowds of young people started to gather around the house on Burleigh Street breaking windows, obstructing the street and even breaking into the house,' they wrote. 'Several times the police were called to restore order.' AC/DC was formed in Sydney in 1973 by Angus and Malcolm Young, and they are best known for hits including Thunderstruck, Highway To Hell and Hells Bells. Their older brother George, who died in 2017, was the rhythm guitarist for the 60s Australian pop-rock band The Easybeats. Former band members are Dave Evans on lead vocals, Bon Scott on lead vocals, Mark Evans on bass guitar, Simon Wright on drums and Chris Slade on drums. Their latest album Power Up was released in 2020 and is their first since Malcolm Young's death in 2017. The property, located in the Sydney suburb of Burwood, was the first Australian home of rockers Angus, Malcolm and George Young, after they moved to Australia from Scotland in 1963. Pictured: The house (left) and the vacant lot where it stood (right) Guitarist Malcolm passed away at age 64 in November 2017 after a three-year battle with dementia. Appearing on 60 Minutes, an emotional Angus spoke about his brother's decline in health, after Malcolm's retirement from the band in 2014. Angus said the 'hardest part was not so much him passing', but rather watching his deterioration. 'I think the hardest part was not so much him passing because that was a kind of end, the relief. I think the worst part's the decline,' Angus told Allison Langdon. 'That's the hard part, because of how you knew him and then to see that gone.' The Scottish-born star went on to reveal that despite his brother's deteriorating health, certain aspects of his personality still remained. 'I would say, even to the end, he was still... if I was there, he had a big smile. And I think that always gave me a kind of joy. 'Even though he was in that state, that was always the joy,' he continued. Following Malcolm's death in 2017, AC/DC released a statement that said: 'Today it is with deep sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young. 'Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC. With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band.' 'As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man. He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted.' Beloved Australian independent filmmaker Nigel Buesst died at the The Royal Melbourne Hospital on Friday, December 27 aged 86. The veteran movie movie director was born in Melbourne in 1938 began his celebrated career in Australian cinema in the mid-60s. His cause of death was complications of a serious stroke, following his retirement from the industry in 2014. Fellow Australian filmmaker Bill Mousoulis confirmed the heartbreaking news of Buesst's passing on social media. 'A giant of the Melbourne independent film community for the past 60 years has sadly passed away,' Bill wrote. Meanwhile, Aussie director Geoffrey Gardner wrote that Buesst was a 'legendary figure from a time when you spent your own money to make a movie.' Beloved Australian independent filmmaker Nigel Buesst (pictured) died at the The Royal Melbourne Hospital on Friday, December 27 aged 86 Romper Stomper director Geoffrey Wright, who studied under Buesst at university, paid tribute to his former teacher in a statement. 'He had his own style going on as a teacher: meandering, very cynical, with a lot of deadpan humour. 'Emphasised the importance of action in movies, he held up Dirty Harry and Mad Max as the perfect examples of what audiences wanted from an anti-hero. 'Characters with simple, clear motivations expressed through kinetic action on the screen.' Buesst had an independent spirit and directed many short films using his own money, including the cult 1969 movie The Rise and Fall of Squizzy Taylor. The film provided a hard-hitting look at Melbourne's infamous gangster Joseph 'Squizzy' Taylor, who terrorised the streets in the 1920s. His self-funded productions were often made on shoe-string budgets of just several thousand dollars. They developed a reputation as standing in stark contrast to the higher-budget studio-produced Australian films of the same era. The veteran movie movie director was born in Melbourne in 1938 began his celebrated career in Australian cinema in the mid-60s Buesst had an independent spirit and directed many short films using his own money He also directed the popular 1970 movie Dead Easy, starring Storm Boy actor Peter Cummins, who tragically predeceased him by just several months. Buesst also taught cinema studies at Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology from 1970 - 1984. His celebrated career saw his movie Dead Easy win the Best Short Fiction Film category at the 1970 Australian Film Institute Awards. He also worked with some of Australia's most popular showbiz stars. They include Mad Max director George Miller and Furiosa actor John Howard. The cinema-lover was also the co-founder and artistic director of the world-famous St Kilda Film Festival, established in 1986. His final work was editing a documentary about Dutch-born Melbourne filmmaker Paul Cox in 2014. Buesst is survived by his wife Diane Reece, son Jason, daughter Amanda Falvo, and four grandchildren. Nicole Kidman's daughter Sunday Urban and niece Lucia Hawley have recreated a hilarious viral moment featuring Kendall Jenner. Lucia, 26, shared a clip to TikTok which captured her and her cousin Sunday Urban discussing the best way to cut a cucumber, cheekily mocking an incident from 2022 in which Kendall struggled to prepare the popular vegetable. 'Do you want the chef to make you a snack,' Lucia asked Sunday in the clip, as they performed a skit for their fans while enjoying the Christmas break at home in Sydney together. 'I'm going to make it myself. Just going to chop up a cucumber,' Lucia's friend responded. The upbeat presenter then warned her friend to 'be careful, because I nicked myself cutting the other day' and Sunday admitted using a knife to chop the vegetable was making her 'really scared'. Nicole's daughter Sunday beamed as she cheekily hammed it up alongside her 7Bravo presenter cousin Lucia in the hilarious clip. Nicole Kidman's daughter Sunday Urban (left) and niece Lucia Hawley (right) have recreated a hilarious viral moment featuring Kendall Jenner The cheeky clip made fun of the 2022 uproar in which reality star Kendall Jenner, 29, found herself at the centre of online uproar following the debut of an episode of her family's Hulu show The Kardashians, featuring her half-sisters Kim and Kourtney. In the shock footage, Kendall's less-than-stellar culinary skills were on full display. In the episode, the tequila brand owner is seen visiting her mother Kris' sprawling mansion in Calabasas, Los Angeles, where she decides she wants to make herself a snack. Kendall turns down Kris' offer to have the family's professional chef whip something up for her - insisting she's 'making it herself' and that chopping cucumber would be 'easy'. She proceeded to try to slice it, bending her arms around in an awkward fashion, while her mum looked on in bewilderment. After Kendall admitted she was 'not a good cutter' and she was 'kind of scared' of the knife, Kris hollered for the chef, asking them to come in and 'cut this up for her'. In response to the skit, many of Lucia's followers quickly took to the comment section to express their amusement over the hilarious footage. 'Cousins rocking,' one person wrote and a second added: 'My icons'. The 7Bravo presenter, 26, shared a clip to TikTok which captured her and Sunday Urban discussing the best way to cut a cucumber, cheekily mocking an incident from 2022 in which Kendall Jenner (pictured) struggled to prepare the popular vegetable 'Do you want the chef to make you a snack,' Lucia asked Sunday in the clip, as they performed a skit for their fans while enjoying the Christmas break at home in Sydney together Sunday is the daughter of Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban while Lucia is the daughter of Nicole's sister Antonia. In January 2023, Kendall also made fun of her cucumber cutting uproar in an UberEats advert featuring her 'momager' Kris. Kris was seen asking her daughter if she would like to order anything from UberEats as Kendall struggles to slice a cucumber. Kendall stares unhappily at the vegetable she is having difficulty with as she crosses her hands over it to get a better angle for the knife. She then asks Kris, 'What about something easier to cut?' 'Let's just get you a salad,' Kris quips, to which the model replies: 'Thank you.' Meanwhile, Nicole's daughter Sunday recently launched a modelling career. Sunday opened the Miu Miu Paris Womenswear Spring-Summer 2025 show during Paris Fashion Week in October. But her runway debut was savaged by harsh social media users who critiqued her walk afterwards. Nicole later weighed in on her daughter's controversial appearance, and she admitted that she had advised against it at first. During a recent chat with Hollywood Reporter, the actress was asked 'what it was like as a mom' to see Sunday walk in her first fashion show. 'But Miuccia just loved her and was like, No, I want her. And Miuccia is so powerful as a woman. So that was a good match.' Nicole added that she had known Miuccia since she was 23 years old, so she trusted her expertise. Sunday strutted on the catwalk in a white sleeveless dress with a ribbon embellishment from the Italian haute couture label, which she paired with grey leg-warmers and black peep-toe heels. People were quick to slam her online, with one person suggesting she take runway lessons, and another complaining that too many nepo babies think they can model. Former Love Island star Sam Gowland has ended 2024 on a high by announcing his engagement to girlfriend Scarlet Rae. The TV personality, 29, proposed during a winter break at the five star Atlantis Palm in Dubai, with the lavish resort providing the backdrop for a series of subsequent photos. Showing off Scarlet's diamond encrusted engagement ring with social media followers, he wrote: 'Yesterday, today, tomorrow, Id always choose you. Heres to forever.' The couple have kept a tight lid on their relationship and rarely feature together on social media - although he did publicly wish Scarlet a happy birthday in front of the Jumeriah Burj Al Arab during a previous trip to Dubai. He may well be hoping his bride-to-be knows her way around the kitchen after admitting he hasn't cooked a meal for himself in years. Taking to Instagram in March, he wrote: 'Random fact of the day - I've not cooked a meal since leaving my old home in Newcastle in 2021 (Cool or bit weird I can't work out).' Former Love Island star Sam Gowland has ended 2024 on a high by announcing his engagement to girlfriend Scarlet Rae The TV personality proposed during a winter break at the five star Atlantis Palm in Dubai , with the lavish resort providing the backdrop for a series of subsequent photos Gowland, who found fame on the third series of Love Island in 2017 and later appeared on Geordie Shore, previously revealed his post-show activities have made him a multimillionaire. Earlier this year he shared posts promoting Forex trading, while showing off property he has been working on in Bali, Indonesia - his home since leaving the United Kingdom. Gowland admitted he had been taking trading tips from fellow Love Island star Jonny Mitchell, who has left his reality TV days behind to become an investment guru. Last summer, it was revealed that he would return to Geordie Shore four years after his explosive bust-ups with ex-girlfriend Chloe Ferry resulted in his departure from the show. The TV personality, who also argued with some of the other Geordie Shore cast member, was axed from the MTV stalwart in 2019. Speaking to The Sun at the time , a source said: 'Sam flew out and surprised the cast in Cyprus - it was a total shock to everyone when he arrived, and extremely awkward for Chloe. 'Fans will love to see him back on screen but the cast were really shocked.' The reality star was in Geordie Shore in its sixteenth series in 2018 but did not return to the show the following year after discussions with Chloe. Gowland shoed off Scarlet's diamond encrusted engagement ring with social media followers The couple have kept a tight lid on their relationship and rarely feature together on social media However he eventually returned after rekindling his romance with Chloe, who he originally met in 2017. He was later suspended over claims of a major bust-up, prompted by claims that Chloe had kissed another man while holidaying in Portugal. Gowland allegedly took it 'way too far' in a heated exchange when Chloe's kiss with a mystery man became hot topic of conversation once again, according to The Sun. A source told the publication: 'He got suspended again because it came out that Chloe snogged a random man during filming in Portugal... 'Everyone thought it had blown over but when he went back into the house it was mentioned and he hit the roof. 'Obviously the producers want fireworks but this was way too far, hence why Sam was slapped with another suspension.' He may well be hoping his bride-to-be knows her way around the kitchen after admitting he hasn't cooked a meal for himself in years Bianca Wallace shared a slew of adorable snaps with fiance Ioan Gruffudd on social media on Tuesday. The 32-year-old Australian actress and Fantastic Four star, 51, are currently living it up on Fitzroy Island, Australia, with Bianca's family as they prepare to welcome in the new year. Taking to Instagram, the couple looked happier than ever as they posed for a loved-up selfie. Ioan cut a stylish figure in a black shirt with white floral detailing, while Bianca looked incredible in a gold knitted dress. In another snap, the actor posed shirtless with a beer as he held an umbrella above Bianca, who was grinning ear to ear. She then shared a stunning selfie with a cocktail before wowing in a turquoise bikini, that flaunted her toned figure. Bianca Wallace shared a slew of adorable snaps with fiance Ioan Gruffudd on social media on Tuesday while away in Australia The 32-year-old Australian actress and Fantastic Four star, 51, are currently living it up on Fitzroy Island with Bianca's family as they prepare to welcome in the new year She captioned the snaps: 'This is the energy we're bringing into 2025. Happy New Year!' Their lavish getaway comes after Ioan's bitter war with his ex-wife Alice Evans took a bizarre twist as she has accused him of 'fraternizing' with a female lawyer during an appearance at a Los Angeles courthouse. It started when Alice was temporarily booted from the courtroom September 9 for taking photos inside apparently of Ioan which is strictly against court rules and could have landed her with a contempt charge. But Alice insists in new court documents found by DailyMail.com that she wasn't taking shots of her ex, she was photographing a female lawyer in court named Andrea Burkhart. She claims Andrea 'has been fraternizing' with Ioan, 'has said awful things about me' and 'refers to me as 'Malice' instead of 'Alice' in her Twitter posts.' 'I turned around and saw her (Andrea) and Gruffudd engaged in conversation, smiling and laughing,' she said. 'This concerned me greatly as it appears that Gruffudd is assisting Ms. Burkhart to make disparaging statements about me in her social media.' In her new court filing, Alice includes a photo of Andrea outside the LA courthouse and lists several online posts by Andrea that criticize her and support Ioan's contention that Alice's claims about being 'penniless' and unable to support their two young daughters, are untrue. Bianca shared a stunning selfie with a cocktail She then wowed in a turquoise bikini, that flaunted her toned figure 'Alice just lies about her financial situation,' Andrea wrote in an August 2024 post. 'Malice's own financial disclosures have been, shall we say, opaque,' she wrote in a post in July this year. Andrea's following of the messy Ioan/Alice split has evidently been going on for a while, since she posted in April 2023, 'She's (Alice) been found to have committed domestic abuse.' Still, it's unclear what her interest or involvement in this celebrity breakup is all about, apart from a YouTube posting that reads, 'I give commentary and analysis of high-profile cases based on my nearly two decades of experience as a defense attorney' Ioan and Alice were formally divorced in July last year. But they are still battling fiercely over spousal support and custody and financial support for their two daughters Ella and Elsie. At the September 9 court hearing, Judge Josh Freeman Stinn signed off on a stipulated agreement in which Ioan pays $3,000 a month temporary child support and $1,500 a month temporary spousal support until another hearing February 13 hearing where a more permanent support arrangement will be forged. Andrea is planning to call Bianca as a witness at the February hearing to testify that Alice 'stalked, harassed and abused' her, repeatedly violating a three-year domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) which she and Ioan took out in August 2022, after enduring a 'smear campaign' of hateful text messages, emails and social media posts from her. Ioan claims that Alice is 'engaged in a pattern of damaging and defamatory conduct against me, aimed at intimidating and harassing me and my fiance, Bianca Wallace, while alienating our two young children from me.' Their lavish getaway comes after Ioan's bitter war with his ex-wife Alice Evans (pictured) took a bizarre twist as she has accused him of 'fraternizing' with a female lawyer during an appearance at a Los Angeles courthouse Ioan is expected to call his fiancee Bianca Wallace to testify in court against Evans, who they claim 'stalked, harassed, and abused' her in violation of a restraining order Ioan whose latest movie, Bad Boys: Ride or Die has grossed more than $403 million worldwide has fought Alice's demands for more money, claiming he's paid some $400,000 more in spousal support that he needed to under their pre-marital agreement. In earlier court papers, he called her claims of poverty 'exaggerated' and said it's a 'false narrative' that she and the children have been left destitute. The former couple met on the set of the movie 102 Dalmatians more than 20 years ago. They fell in love in real life and were married in Mexico in 2007. Ioan filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Alice announced on social media that her husband of 14 years was walking out on her and their two daughters. Paul Hollywood has revealed that his pal Blake Lively 'has been texting him' as her Justin Baldoni lawsuit rumbles on. The Great British Bake Off judge, 58, formed an unlikely friendship with the Hollywood star Blake, 37, last year after she revealed her and husband Ryan Reynolds were fans of the show. Speaking to The Times on Tuesday, Paul opened up about his bond with the actress as he said: 'I've got a lot of time for Blake. 'She texts occasionally, sort of to catch up on what she's been up to, what Ryan's up to, and it's lovely, because regardless of their job, they're just a normal family, mum and dad to some great kids. They're really nice people.' He also name-dropped other celebrity Bake Off fans, revealing that Hugh Jackman, Michael J Fox and Lynda Carter have all come out and said they love the show. Kylie Jenner also recently shared a video of herself watching Bake Off on the plane as she revealed it was her favourite show - however Paul admitted he had no idea who she was. Paul Hollywood revealed to The Times on Tuesday that his pal Blake Lively 'has been texting him' as her Justin Baldoni lawsuit rumbles on The Great British Bake Off judge, 58, formed an unlikely friendship with the Hollywood star Blake, 37, last year after she revealed her and Ryan were fans of the show Paul's confession about his text exchanges with Blake come after the actress filed a legal complaint against her It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin alleging he sexually harassed her on the set of their film before orchestrating a smear campaign against her with his publicists after she complained about his alleged behaviour. He is said to be in the process of preparing a countersuit. Sparking up a friendship in June of last year, self-proclaimed Bake Off superfans Blake and Ryan, 48, posed for snaps with judges Paul and Prue Leith during a trip to the UK. Blake cosied up to Paul in a photo shared to his Instagram, with Paul even joking that she should replace his co-judge Prue, 84. He captioned his post writing: 'Sorry Prue, Blake (@blakelively) has taken your seat welcome to cake corner Blake #legendinthetent #getbaking' The Gossip Girl star looked radiant in a black and white polka dot dress as she beamed to the camera while affectionately touching Paul's arm - with fans hoping Paul's joke was true. But husband Ryan needn't be jealous as he too posed with Bake Off stars Paul and Prue. The Deadpool star and self proclaimed fan of the series, beamed in the photo as fans begged him to guest host the show. Ryan captioned the Instagram snap: 'A full and unconditional hug of pure serotonin'. Paul's confession about his text exchanges with Blake come after the actress filed a legal complaint against her It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin alleging he sexually harassed her on the set of their film before orchestrating a smear campaign against her with his publicists after she complained about his alleged behaviour The Deadpool star and self proclaimed fan of the series, beamed in a photo as fans begged him to guest host the show Just two months later, Blake and Paul reunited as they both appeared in an amusing advert for her alcoholic drinks brand Betty Booze The actress roped in the Great British Bake Off judge to be the face of her high-end bourbon and tequila cocktails, after becoming unlikely friends Blake joked that she had 'finally made it in Hollywood' as she showed herself to be an avid Great British Bake Off fan with the skit Just two months later, Blake and Paul reunited as they both appeared in an amusing advert for her alcoholic drinks brand Betty Booze. The actress roped in the Great British Bake Off judge to be the face of her high-end bourbon and tequila cocktails, after becoming unlikely friends. And Blake took to Instagram to share the latest advert for her brand Betty Booze featuring none other than celebrity chef Paul. Blake joked that she had 'finally made it in Hollywood' as she showed herself to be an avid Great British Bake Off fan with the skit. The video kicked off with Blake arriving at Paul's house carrying boxes of her cocktail cans, desperate to get the Bake Off judges approval on her product. A surprised Paul opened the door and uncertainly said: 'Hello Blake! Nice to see you again... at my home.' To which Blake replied: 'Don't mention it. Here we go, Betty Booze, which I just launched using all of my own recipes, and I would love your professional opinion, if you don't mind.' Cracking open one of the drinks as Blake put more boxes in his fridge in the kitchen, Paul referenced the fact that Blake doesn't drink but has created cocktail cans as he asked: 'I thought you don't drink alcohol.' Putting on his serious judging face, Paul mimicked his own Bake Off judging tactics as he declared: 'I really like it, it is absolutely beautiful, really good. The tang, the balance with the ginger, it's spot on' An amusing moment then saw Blake's face light up as Paul leant towards her with his hand outstretched, as she thought she would get a rare Paul Hollywood handshake - but as she moved her hand out to take Paul's, he simply reached behind her to grab another drink, saying: 'It's so easy, to grab and go!' To which Blake jokingly replied: 'Oh I don't drink alcohol, I eat it. Bourbon and whipped cream, sherry vinaigrette. Really hard pressed to find anything I cook without alcohol. Do you like it?' Putting on his serious judging face, Paul mimicked his own Bake Off judging tactics as he declared: 'I really like it, it is absolutely beautiful, really good. The tang, the balance with the ginger, it's spot on.' A thrilled Blake asked: 'Really?', to which Paul replied: 'Yeah.' An amusing moment then saw Blake's face light up as Paul leant towards her with his hand outstretched, as she thought she would get a rare Paul Hollywood handshake. But as she moved her hand out to take Paul's, he simply reached behind her to grab another drink, saying: 'It's so easy, to grab and go!' The amusing skit came to an end with a red-faced Blake left awkwardly scratching her head at her faux pas, as she missed out on his highest level of praise. The clip ended with Blake saying: 'Try new Betty Booze, or I'll come over and make you try them.' They married in 2011 and are now proud parents to five children. And David Tennant's wife Georgia, 40, celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary on Monday by sharing a sweet Instagram selfie with her followers. In the sweet black-and-white snap, the Scottish actor, 53, flashed a glimpse of a smile towards the camera as he proceeded to take a selfie of them from below. Meanwhile, Georgia could be seen beaming for the camera as she sweetly leaned her head on David. Alongside the adorable snap, Georgia cheekily poked fun at her husband saying: '13 years of trying to get him to understand we both look better when he doesnt take a selfie from below. #marriage.' Fans and friends of the couple then flocked to the comment section to wish them both a happy anniversary. David Tennant, 53, posed for a sweet Instagram selfie with his wife Georgia Tennant, 40, as they celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary on Monday One fan wrote: 'You both look magnificent! Happy 13th Anniversary! May it be a relaxing, joy and laughter filled night for you both!'; 'You 2 don't have bad angles Enjoy while it lasts! Happy Anniversary x.' 'Happy anniversary to the best .'; 'Happy Anniversary!!.'; 'Happy anniversary you legends! .' The couple met in 2008, when Georgia starred in the BBC hit series Doctor Who, as she took on the role of David's character's genetically engineered daughter Jenny, and they married three years later. David adopted Georgia's son, Ty, 21, from a previous relationship, and they went on to have three daughters, Olive, 12, Doris, eight, and Birdie, four, and a son, Wilfred, 10. Earlier this month, David revealed his sweet tattoo tribute to his wife Georgia as she prepared to celebrate her 40th birthday. The Doctor Who star showed off the new ink in snaps taken by tattoo artist Sym, who posts under the Instagram handle theflavouroftears. The tattoo consisted of a delicate letter G in the appropriately-named Georgia font, on the side of David's wrist. In their post, Sym gushed that they were hugely honoured to give David the ink, and shared a snap with the actor after the tattoo was completed. The couple met in 2008 and they married three years later before going on to have three daughters, Olive, 12, Doris, eight, and Birdie, four, and a son, Wilfred, 10 The anniversary snap comes after David revealed his sweet tattoo tribute to his wife Georgia earlier this month as they prepared to celebrate her 40th birthday They captioned the post: 'Cats out the bag - it was an honour to make this special 'G', in the font Georgia for David Tennants first tattoo. A wonderful ode to @georgiatennantofficial for her birthday.' 'Funfact: one of the first ever tattoos I made was 'BadWolf' so this was a wonderful full circle moment and brings this years tattoos to a close.' 'As a Queer Non-binary artist, David and Georgias allyship and activism for our community has been a shining light and Im very grateful to have curated this tattoo and look forward to continuing to make special tattoos for special people. 'See you all in the New Year, lots of love, Sym.' Netflix users have been counting down the days to the release of Missing You, the 10th TV adaptation of Harlan Coben's popular mystery novels. The latest series - released on New Year's Day - stars Slow Horses actress Rosalind Eleazar, who plays Missing Persons detective Kat Donovan. The five-part show follows Rosalind who is shocked to see her ex fiance Josh (Ashley Walters) on a dating app 11 years after he disappeared from her life without a trace. Josh's reappearance forces her to dive back into the mystery surrounding her father's (Lenny Henry)murder and leads her to uncover long-buried secrets from her past. With the last Harlan adaptation, Fool Me Once, becoming one of Netflix's biggest hits, it's expected that Missing You will also break records and help the cast achieve worldwide fame. So who is Rosalind Eleazar? Who is Rosalind Eleazar? Everything you need to know about the Missing You star who is the daughter of a prominent politician and has links to King Charles (pictured in the show) Missing You - released on New Year's Day - stars Slow Horses actress Rosalind (pictured at the Emmys in September) who plays Missing Persons detective Kat Donovan Rosalind was born in London in 1998, the daughter of a white British mother and a Ghanaian father. Her mother Deborah was working for a Greek shipping company when she met Major Courage Quashigah, a senior politician in the Ghanaian government, at a New Year's Eve party, and they went on to welcome Rosalind. Yet the couple split shortly after Rosalind was born and she revealed in a chat with The Daily Mail's You magazine in September that she only saw her father intermittently. 'I grew up with my mum, I need to stress that because she sometimes says, "You always talk about your dad but never mention me in interviews,"' Rosalind explained. While she enjoyed her early years in London when she was 13 she won a scholarship to the prestigious Scottish public school Gordonstoun - where King Charles was famously educated. Although many would be proud to have such a prestigious institute on their CV, Rosalind confessed: 'I get hounded about going to Gordonstoun, especially after the way it was depicted in The Crown. 'For me it wasn't a cruel, brutal place my drama teacher Mr Williams is one of the reasons I'm here today.' After Gordonstoun she read Mandarin and Spanish at Nottingham University and was also in more regular contact with her father. The five-part show follows Rosalind who is shocked to see her ex fiance Josh (Ashley Walters) on a dating app 11 years after he disappeared from her life without a trace Rosalind was born in London to a British mother and a Ghanaian father but aged 13 she won a scholarship to the prestigious Scottish public school Gordonstoun - where King Charles was famously educated (Pictured with Prince Philip and Captain Tennant at Gordonstoun in 1962) Rosalind's father was Major Courage Quashigah, a senior politician in the Ghanaian government, and the pair did not have much contact in her early years In 2007 she visited him in Ghana, where he was by then minister for health and the pair rebuilt their relationship. Tragically, soon after the trip he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and died in 2010. While their relationship was at times fractious, the similarities between Rosalind and the father she barely knew are striking. He grew up in poverty and got a scholarship to the British Army's officer training academy at Sandhurst, where he won the Best Overseas Cadet Award. Before he became a government minister, he worked for the Ghanaian intelligence services, while Rosalind famously played the role of a dysfunctional MI5 agents in Apple TV series, Slow Horses. 'I know I'm only a TV spy, but that's weird, isn't it?' she remarked. 'I doubt he would have been a slow horse, though.' Yet it took a while for Rosalind to find her way into acting after the trip with her father. Following his dad's death, she went back to Ghana to meet his side of the family. She even landed a job in TV production, helping to launch a Ghanaian version of The X Factor. Rosalind shone in her breakthrough film role as Agnes in Armando Iannucci's 2019 breakout film The Personal History of David Copperfield (pictured with Dev Patel and Hugh Laurie) Rosalind famously played the role of a dysfunctional MI5 agents in Apple TV series, Slow Horses (pictured with co-star Jack Lowden) It was then she rediscovered her love of performing. 'Whenever I was auditioning people, I had this intense feeling: "that's what I want to do."', Rosalind explained. 'I'd acted through school and university, but then stopped. It took an old friend from uni back in the UK to ask me, "Why have you given up on what you love?" to change things.' In 2012, aged 24, Rosalind returned to the UK, applied to Lamda (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) hours before the deadline and won a place. It's now nine years since she graduated, and she has been acclaimed for work on both stage and screen. She won an award for her performance in Uncle Vanya at London's Harold Pinter Theatre directed by Ian Rickson in 2020 ('In Eleazar, Rickson's found gold' noted The Mail on Sunday). Rosalind went on to shine in her breakthrough film role as Agnes in Armando Iannucci's 2019 breakout film The Personal History of David Copperfield. 'That was my first big film role, and I was among acting royalty,' she recalled. 'When Tilda Swinton calmed my nerves just by touching my hand, that was a genuine 'Is this real?' moment.' She looks set to become a household name with her latest role in Missing You but is worried about what the overnight exposure could bring - the most recent Harlan adaptation Fool Me Once has more than 98 million viewers and gave lead Michelle Keegan international fame. She looks set to become a household name with her latest role in Missing You but is worried about what the overnight exposure could bring (pictured with on-screen dad Lenny Henry) Rosalind pictured with Missing You co-stars Jessica Plummer and Mary Malone at the series photocall in November. Missing You is out now on Netflix 'From the outside, certain levels of fame can look daunting,' Rosalind confessed. 'But I know how lucky I am to have the chance to fulfil certain dreams.' Rosalind who is married to film producer Gabriele Lo Giudice admitted to Fabric that timing helped play a part in her accepting the role. She admitted: 'Luckily for me, I got the job before it came out, or I might have been like, "Oh my God, this is too frightening!" 'Im glad I didnt know; it was really nice to try something different this is the most commercial project Ive done. It was great.' Rosalind will next be seen on season four of Slow Horses. Missing You is out on New Year's Day on Netflix. Australian rock legends Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey left ABC viewers divided on Tuesday night as they performed at the network's New Year's Eve festivities. The iconic musicians took to the stage as the new duo Fanning Dempsey National Park, a band they debuted this year with their first collaborative album Deluge. Now the Powderfinger and Something For Kate frontmen have taken to the stage with a slate of covers and original songs, but not all viewers on X were happy to see them. 'Bernard Fanning singing These Days on the #ABCNYE coverage genuinely making me not want to live to see the new year,' one person brutally wrote. Another said: 'Ancient crones Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey break out falsetto in s*** brown coloured suit.' Despite some of the nasty comments left on the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, fans flocked to support the Aussie rock legends. Australian rock legends Bernard Fanning, 55, (right) and Paul Dempsey, 48, (left) left ABC viewers divided on Tuesday night as they performed at the network's New Year's Eve festivities 'Not a fan of the ABC, but the Paul Dempsey and Bernard Fanning concert was perfect,' one viewer at home said. 'Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey. On fire. Brilliant,' another commented. A third wrote: 'Hands down the best thing on ABC is Something For Kate and Bernard Fanning. Running rings around the poor 9pm fireworks!' 'I'm genuinely shocked how good this year's concert is so far. Never even crossed my mind that Bernard Fanning could sound like Bowie,' one viewer added. Bernard, 55, and Paul, 48, went public with their new band Fanning Dempsey National Park earlier this year. The debuted their first album Deluge shortly after with Disconnect the name of its leading single. Their live debut came just weeks later in October with the Deluge Tour, playing in Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, and returning to Brisbane again. Bernard said in an Instagram video back in May that the debut single Disconnect was about walking away from a love that is 'no longer working for you'. The iconic musicians took to the stage as the new duo Fanning Dempsey National Park, a band they debuted this year with their first collaborative album Deluge Paul later added: 'This started out with almost a gospel kinda feel but over a few drafts the drums got punchier and the guitars got hookier. 'Then we started throwing horns at everything and suddenly the party was on.' Opening up about two of the greatest rock frontmen joining to form a new band, Bernard and Paul said they wanted to defy expectations. 'We didn't want it to sound like a Fanning record or a Dempsey record, we wanted it to sound like a band,' Bernard told the ABC in May. The developed the name Fanning Dempsey National Park to give a 'sense of an organisation bigger than the two of us'. 'It's so pompous that it made us laugh every time we said it,' Paul joked. Now the Powderfinger and Something For Kate frontmen have taken to the stage with a slate of covers and original songs, but not all viewers on X were happy to see them Despite some of the nasty comments left on the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, fans flocked to support the Aussie rock legends Bernard and Paul have been friends for decades since their bands Powderfinger and Something For Kate first came onto the alt-rock scene in the 1990s. They became closer during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic when they made a viral video of themselves covering Queen and David Bowie's classic duet Under Pressure. Bernard also lent his vocals to the Something For Kate track Inside Job from their 2020 album The Modern Medieval. Ever since, the pair said they have been 'trading songs and ideas online' until it developed into their newest rock band. Powderfinger first formed in Brisbane in 1989, with the line-up consisting of Bernard, Darren Middleton, Ian Haug, John Collins and Jon Coghill from 1992 to 2010. While the band officially broke up in 2010, they have reunited multiple times in recent years. Meanwhile, Something For Kate was formed in 1994 by Paul and Clint Hyndman with Stephanie Ashworth joining in 1998. The band is still together. Tammy Hembrow looked angelic in white on Tuesday as she celebrated New Year's Eve with her children and new husband Matt Zukowski. The fitness influencer, 30, flashed her toned abs in a flowing skirt and tube crop top as she spent a cosy evening in with her family. Sharing a reel of photos to Instagram to mark the occasion, the blonde beauty could be seen cuddling up to her beau as she celebrated the year end with sparklers. Pulling her tresses back into a half up-do, Tammy could be seen having a passionate kiss with Matt, 29, who she tied the knot with late last month in Byron Bay. Several photos in her post saw the happy couple enjoying a lavish lunch with two of Tammy's three children Saskia and Wolf. Baby Posy, two, did not make an appearance in the photos, making it unclear if she spent New Year's Eve with her mother or father Matt Poole, Tammy's ex. Tammy Hembrow, 30, (left) looked angelic in white on Tuesday as she celebrated New Year's Eve with her children and new husband Matt Zukowski, 29, (right) Tammy shares Wolf, nine, and Saskia, eight, with ex Reece Hawkins. Videos were also included in Tammy's reel, with one showing the mother-of-three making love hearts in the air with sparklers alongside her daughter. Another clip saw the online personality dancing in her kitchen before Matt playfully picked her up and threw her over his shoulder. The festivities come after Tammy showed off her incredible figure as she packed on the PDA with her new husband Matt on Monday. The fitness influencer took to Instagram to share a gallery of photographs of herself looking very cosy with the Love Island Australia star. Tammy showed off her new breast implants as she put on a busty display in a plunging white dress with a cross-over backless detailing. She toted her essentials in a stylish beige handbag and made sure ensured all eyes were on her as she got glammed up for her date night with Matt. Matt looked as smitten as ever as he wrapped his arms around Tammy while cutting a smart figure in a grey shirt and beige trousers. The fitness influencer flashed her toned abs in a flowing skirt and tube crop top as she spent a cosy evening in with her family The newlyweds enjoyed a romantic date night over the festive period as they prepared to ring in their first New Year's Eve as a married couple. In a caption, Tammy hinted that she was enjoying some downtime over New Year's, writing: 'On [do not disturb] til 2025.' Tammy recently gave fans an insight into her and Matt's first Christmas as newlyweds after they tied the knot in Byron Bay last month. The couple were joined by Tammy's three children Wolf, Saskia and Posy as they all spent some quality time together over the holidays. In a series of snaps shared to social media, Tammy and Matt looked every inch the doting couple as they posed with her three children. Tammy and Matt tied the knot in at Byron Bay's Chateau Du Soleil in front of their loved ones before jetting off for a snowy honeymoon in Finland. Since returning Down Under, Tammy has marked a huge step in her newly-married life as she has already changed her name. The bio on her Instagram account, which boasts an impressive 17.3 million followers, now bears the name Tammy Zukowski. Sharing a reel of photos to Instagram to mark the occasion, the blonde beauty could be seen cuddling up to her beau as she celebrated the year end with sparklers However, her account handle @tammyhembrow remains unchanged. Tammy and Matt got engaged during a holiday in the Maldives in December last year after just three months of dating. Tammy has been engaged twice before, the first time to influencer Reece Hawkins, who she shares her son Wolf and daughter Saskia with. In November 2021, she then became engaged to restaurateur and former Ironman Matt Poole. The pair split in December 2022 and share their daughter Posy. Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) -The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, is deeply alarmed by the ongoing situation in Mozambique, where post-election unrest has forced thousands to flee their homes, including to seek safety in neighbouring countries Melissa Leong has shared her New Year's resolutions amid a period of career upheaval. The former MasterChef Australia judge, 42, hinted that busy times are ahead as she revealed her 2025 plans. 'I am taking it a week at a time, so I am trying to white knuckle it to the end of the year' she told the Daily Telegraph. 'Hopefully I will be able to celebrate with some friends and just have a little bit of time off to enjoy the weather should Melbourne deem it to be so' she added. It comes after Melissa revealed why she thinks people find her intimidating. She made the comments when she recently appeared on the Mental As Anyone podcast. Melissa Leong (pictured) has shared her New Year's resolutions amid a period of career upheaval. The former MasterChef Australia judge, 42, hinted that busy times are ahead as she revealed her 2025 plans 'I am aware that sometimes, by being a little verbose, being a little wordy, word nerdy, that it can intimidate people,' she remarked. Melissa went on to say that her style and the way she carries herself were also ways in which others might think she has a superiority complex. 'Looking put together makes other people feel like theyre less put together and that is never the intention,' the television star said. 'I think sometimes when we meet someone who we find a little intimidating, we need to sometimes break that down. 'What is it about this person thats holding a mirror up to myself and that I feel less than adequate in front of them and kind of work on the critical thinking about that, and suddenly you see them as being maybe a little bit more human and being a little kinder to yourself and hopefully you meet somewhere in the middle.' It comes as the celebrity food critic might be returning to MasterChef as a judge, but on one very awkward proviso. According to a well-placed insider, Leong is putting wheels in motion to return to the cooking competition show, but only if another judge isn't there. 'Melissa told Ten that she'll go back to MasterChef Australia when Andy Allen goes,' a TV insider told Daily Mail Australia. 'I am taking it a week at a time, so I am trying to white knuckle it to the end of the year' she told the Daily Telegraph It comes as the celebrity food critic might be returning to MasterChef as a judge. Pictured with former co-star Andy Allen 'I think the idea of returning to what the show once was for her seems a bit daunting and the only way Melissa would ever return is if the whole format was revamped.' Melissa left MasterChef Australia last year under a cloud of suspicion about an alleged feud with her former co-host Allen. Following revelations of backstage tensions between Leong and crew members employed by Ten's production partner Endemol Shine in 2022, came news she was no longer in the MasterChef Australia line-up. Leong shocked fans when she shared news of her departure to Instagram one day before the network's 2024 Upfronts. 'The changing of the guard is one I always planned to embrace, and I'm so glad to do that on my terms, today,' Leong penned last October. Meanwhile, affable Allen returned to the show this year alongside three new judges. Media darling Poh Ling Yeow, Michelin-star chef Jean-Christophe Novelli and Melbourne food critic Sofia Levin have all joined. Leong's departure came after claims she had been axed following a string of publicised off-camera dramas. Leong infamously had a blow up with the program's hair and make-up team along with a substitute freelance hairstylist in 2022. 'Andy has no beef with Leong,' the source told Daily Mail Australia. 'But he previously expressed his former colleague wasted a lot of time in hair and makeup. 'He felt her control over what was filmed was compromised by her perfectionism.' Channel 10 and Endemol Shine did not respond to any of the allegations when contacted by Daily Mail Australia. Casey Donovan has divided ABC viewers with her New Year's Eve performance in Sydney, in which she covered Leonard Cohen's classic song Hallelujah. The 36-year-old Australian pop star stunned fans as she belted out several songs for the annual celebration, including Defying Gravity from the musical film Wicked. Fans were divided over the Australian Idol winner's upbeat performance and quickly took to social media to express their thoughts, with many praising her singing. 'Casey Donovan just owned the entire night with her version of Hallelujah. What a national treasure. What a voice. Sublime, emotional performance,' one person gushed. 'That was moving and beautiful, you made my night!' a second person added. 'Donovan is the Queen of the NYE celebration concert. Every year she brings it!' a third person chipped in and another wrote: 'What a voice.' Casey Donovan (pictured) has divided ABC viewers with her New Years Eve performance in Sydney, in which she covered Leonard Cohen's classic song Hallelujah However, others were not so taken with the performance and did not mince words when expressing their dissatisfaction. 'Last thing I wanted to see was Casey Donovan at NYE Sydney. Not sure how she got first place Australian Idol,' one person sniped. 'Did Casey Donovan wake up this morning and decide she would get on stage and deliberately ruin Hallelujah?' another user wrote. 'I'm a live and let live kinda guy but Casey Donovan has butchered some songs tonight,' a third viewer chipped in. Casey is a regular performer at the Sydney New Year's Eve concert and often divides viewers with her enthusiastic performances. Elsewhere on the night, furious viewers blasted the ABC for making its family friendly 9pm coverage of the iconic New Year's Eve celebrations too 'woke' in its message. The annual celebration is typically known as the 'fireworks for children', with younger audiences going to bed before the midnight display. The national broadcaster showed the fireworks going off at the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, which was decorated in black, red and yellow spotlights, the colour of the Indigenous flag. The 36-year-old Australian pop star stunned fans as she belted out several songs for the annual celebration, including Defying Gravity from the musical film Wicked Unimpressed viewers quickly took to social media to slam the ABC for 'politicising' the annual celebration. Several complained that the event has become 'woke' in recent years. 'Glad the ABC decided once again to turn NYE into another political statement. Children don't need 9pm fun and fireworks without a heaped serving of cultural education. WOKE,' one viewer sniped. 'Another taxpayer funded divisive load of s**t,' a second person added. 'How embarassing is the 9pm music and theme... oh wait, it's the ABC' complained one more viewer. Elsewhere, Charlie Pickering made an embarrassing blunder as ABC's New Year's Eve broadcast got underway at 8.30pm. Fans were divided over the Australian Idol winner's performance and quickly took to social media to express their thoughts, with some praising Casey's singing and others criticising it He became tongue-tied while introducing the coverage alongside co-presenter Zan Rowe. 'Tonight, we see in the new year live from around the world, ah around the world, ah good start,' he said. Rowe began to interrupt before Pickering quickly corrected himself. 'From the world famous Sydney Opera House on Gadigal Country,' and the gaffe prompted laughter from his co-presenter. Read more in our Daily Mail Australia New Year's Eve live blog. The broadcaster shows the NYE celebrations every year and they regularly attract criticisms from upset viewers. Sam Taylor-Johnson turned up the heat as she shared a slew of holiday snaps with her husband Aaron on social media on Tuesday. The director, 57, and Kick-Ass star, 34, are currently living it up in the Maldives at the Soneva Fushi resort, which has starting rates of 1,580 per night for a Crusoe Villa. Taking to Instagram, Sam turned heads as she gave a glimpse of her toned abs in a leopard print crop top and black denim shorts as she straddled a bike. She then shared a snap of herself swooning over Aaron as he showed off his shirtless muscular physique by the poolside of their villa. This was followed by a snap of the pair looking happier than ever as they posed for a loved-up selfie with the sunset behind them. Sam wowed in a white low neck jumpsuit, while Aaron looked stylish in a khaki green shirt layered over a cream basic top. Sam Taylor-Johnson turned up the heat as she shared a slew of holiday snaps with husband Aaron on social media on Tuesday She swooned over a snap of a very muscular looking Aaron as he showed off his shirtless physique by the poolside of their villa This was followed by a snap of the pair looking happier than ever as they posed for a loved-up selfie with the sunset behind them In another snap, the beauty looked incredible in a blue Celine shirt and blue denim shorts as she posed in the ocean. Her husband looked dapper in a brown suede shirt and gold jewellery as they enjoyed a game of cards. Sam captioned the snaps: 'This was the best way to end 2024. Faced a fear and learnt how to dive. Swam with some sharks and found Nemo.' It comes after Sam and her two eldest daughters joined Aaron at his Kraven The Hunter premiere in NYC earlier this month. The lovebirds paused for an assortment of photos together upon arriving to the AMC Lincoln Square Theater in Manhattan. Her eldest daughters Angelica, 26, and Jessie, 18 - whom she welcomed with ex-husband Jay Jopling - also joined in on the festivities. Aaron and Sam are also parents to two daughters Wylda, 14, and Romy, 12 - but the pair were not spotted at the star-studded event. The Anna Karenina actor has previously opened up about keeping their youngest children out of the public eye during a past interview with Harper's Bazaar. The director, 57, and Kick-Ass star, 34, are currently living it up in the Maldives at the Soneva Fushi resort, which has starting rates of 1,580 per night for a Crusoe Villa In another snap, the beauty looked incredible in a blue Celine shirt and blue denim shorts as she posed in the ocean Her husband looked dapper in a brown suede shirt and gold jewellery as they enjoyed a game of cards The couple enjoyed a bike ride to the beach from their villa 'We live behind walls. Literally, figuratively, and deliberately. You'll never see our children or any of our most personal moments on social media or in the press.' He continued to the outlet, 'We have our professional lives and our life together, and we keep them apart.' However, Aaron has been spotted with his stepdaughters and a few months earlier in October, he shocked fans by sharing a rare photo with Jessie on social media. Sam and Aaron tied the knot in 2012 after meeting three years earlier on the set of the film Nowhere Boy. Sam said in May that she can't believe the 'fascination' people have had with her and Aaron's 23-year age gap. The couple have a fiercely private relationship and Sam has admitted people's initial interest in the couples relationship was 'intense' because 'people want to understand things when they can't.' It comes after Sam and her two eldest daughters joined Aaron at his Kraven The Hunter premiere in NYC earlier this month Sam said in May that she can't believe the 'fascination' people have had with her and Aaron's 23-year age gap (pictured in April) She revealed that the interest has now 'gone away a little bit' as the couple have been together for 14 years. Discussing her relationship on BBC Radio 4's This Cultural Life, she said: 'I guess that interest was more when we got together, which was now 14 years at the beginning, was quite intense. 'And that sort of fascination, because he's younger than me, which you know, we couldn't really fathom the fascination. But I guess it's sort of gone away a little bit. 'Mostly when I'm doing press and things like this it sort of resurges a little bit. But yeah, I guess people want to understand things when they can't. 'They want to pick up art when they can't fathom what a certain love story that doesn't fit in a box is.' Back To Black filmmaker Sam is a mother to Angelica, 26, and Jessie, 18, who she shares with ex-husband Jay Jopling. She shares Wylda, 13, and Romy, 12, with Aaron. Lady Victoria Hervey showcased her washboard abs in a tiny white bikini as she enjoyed a relaxing break in Barbados on Monday. The socialite, 48, flaunted her toned abs and slender frame in a white two-piece as she strolled along the shore of the beach during her annual festive break. Lady Victoria also shielded her eyes from the rays with a pair of gold-framed aviator shades. She further accessorised with a pair of hoop earrings, an authentic roped necklace, and a stack of beaded bracelets. The blonde beauty appeared relaxed as she strolled along the shore of the beach with her wavy blonde tresses flowing freely. Lady Victoria's outing comes after she slipped into a sexy sheer lace bodysuit to attend Chiltern Firehouse's 10th Anniversary party in London. Lady Victoria Hervey showcased her washboard abs in a tiny white bikini as she enjoyed a relaxing break in Barbados on Monday The socialite, 48, flaunted her toned abs and peachy derriere in a white two-piece as she strolled along the shore of the beach during her annual festive break The model dazzled in the glamorous all-black ensemble, which boasted feather wrist cuffs and square shoulder pads. Lady Victoria teamed the glittering bodysuit with flared velvet trousers and a skinny belt, completing her outfit with a pair of heeled boots. The star of the original celebrity run of ITV's Love Island accessorised with a mysterious bejewelled gold and black mask for the star-studded costume bash. Victoria toted around her essentials in a quilted leather bag and added glitz and glamour with silver drop earrings and several chunky pearl rings. The socialite seemed to be on cloud nine as she posed for snaps with two shirtless firefighters later on in the evening. Chiltern Firehouse ensured that they celebrated their anniversary in style, with stars including Ellie Goulding, Sienna Miller and Lily Allen in attendance. The swanky event had a masquerade theme, which saw attendees get creative with the edgy accessories. Lady Victoria is the daughter of the sixth Marquess of Bristol and is believed to have dated several high-profile celebrities over the years, including Boyzone's Shane Lynch and F1 driver David Coulthard. Lady Victoria is the daughter of the sixth Marquess of Bristol and is believed to have dated several high-profile celebrities over the years, including Boyzone's Shane Lynch and F1 driver David Coulthard She appeared on ITV's Celebrity Love Island in 2005 and was named the 'face of Playboy UK' in the same year. In her early years, she turned down a place at Bristol University to read French and Art History and instead got herself a job as a receptionist to film director Michael Winner. She also dabbled in modelling and appeared on Paris catwalks to land a job as a television presenter. In 2003, she relocated to LA with the dream of making it as an actress and starred in RX as a waitress in a diner. The former 'It girl' has also made appearances in shows such as Absolutely Fabulous, The Farm and Celebrity Showmance. Cunk on Life has received widespread praise after finally hitting screens on Monday night for a 75-minute special on BBC2. The feature-length episode sees the ignorant but hilarious documentary maker, portrayed by Diane Morgan and created by Charlie Brooker, head on an adventurous journey to answer some of life's most profound and existential questions. From the Big Bang Theory to artificial intelligence, the show sees hapless Philomena interview a number of experts and academics in a bid to educate viewers, with her deadpan delivery unsurprisingly raising plenty of laughs. Hours after airing, critics hailed Diane as 'peerless' and her alter-ago - who first appeared in 2013 in newsy British comedy series Charlie Brookers Weekly Wipe - as 'exhaustingly funny'. The Guardian says of the programme that 'the jokes plentiful and wide-ranging', with The Telegraph noting it's a 'visual spectacle'. However, many warned that Philomena's deadpan jokes could grow tedious after a while, with The Times stating: 'Its the kind of daft comedy thats hilarious when not being just too puerile, but which can wear thin after, say, half an hour.' Cunk on Life has received widespread praise after finally hitting screens on Monday night for a 75-minute special on BBC2 The feature-length episode sees the ignorant but hilarious documentary maker, portrayed by Diane Morgan and created by Charlie Brooker, head on an adventurous journey to answer some of life's most profound and existential questions While The Telegraph adds: 'A minor downside is that one or two jokes mainly about our souls and other nethers grow repetitious'. Meanwhile, the comedy has left a number of fans divided as they took to X, formerly known as Twitter to give their verdicts. Many praised the show's humorous writing and declared that actress Diane was at her best, with one even stating it was the 'funniest thing' they've watched in 2024. They penned: 'Absolutely hilarious. Loved the bit about the soundman and the theme of arseholes all the way through. 'Pure class! the best writing of the year, saved for the end... '#CunkOnLife was just outstanding, watch it if you didn't already, so good 'Catching up on #CunkOnLife, pure genius... 'I'm 10 minutes in and it's already the funniest thing I've seen all year.' From the Big Bang Theory to artificial intelligence, the show sees hapless Philomena interview a number of experts and academics in a bid to educate viewers, with her deadpan delivery unsurprisingly raising plenty of laughs Hours after airing, critics hailed Diane as 'peerless' and her alter-ago - who first appeared in 2013 in newsy British comedy series Charlie Brookers Weekly Wipe - as 'exhaustingly funny' However, many warned that Philomena's deadpan jokes could grow tedious after a while, with The Times stating: 'Its the kind of daft comedy thats hilarious when not being just too puerile, but which can wear thin after, say, half an hour' Meanwhile, the comedy has left a number of fans divided as they took to X, formerly known as Twitter to give their verdicts Many praised the show's humorous writing and declared that actress Diane was at her best, with one even stating it was the 'funniest thing' they've watched in 2024 'pure class! the best writing of the year, saved for the end... '#CunkOnLife was just outstanding, watch it if you didn't already, so good.' However, many hit out at the 'repetitive' jokes, with many declaring the 75 minute episode was too long. They shared: '#CunkOnLife has to be the worst of the series yet. There were too many moments where Diane Morgan had to step aside to make way for cheap Charlie Brooker gags. Could have easily been 20 minutes shorter, of purely classic Cunk instead However, many hit out at the 'repetitive' jokes, with many declaring the 75 minute episode was too long 'Funny bits...but WAY too long... Repetitive jokes that weren't funny... Not her best. #CunkOnLife dumb**s against brainiac getting boring now #bbc #onetrickphony' Diane often stuns viewers with her witty and sharp sense of humour - and is celebrated for her previous BBC mockumentaries Cunk On Britain and Cunk On Earth. The actress first debuted her alter-ego in 2013 while on the newsy British comedy series Charlie Brookers Weekly Wipe. She became a fan favourite and was soon hailed as a 'national treasure' - and has also appeared in Motherland as Liz alongside Anna Maxwell Martin. More recently, Diane has starred in After Life, Death to 2020, and Death to 2021. Cunk on Life will be available to stream on Netflix on January 2 2025, and is already available on BBC iPlayer. Rebel Wilson and wife Ramona Agruma are back on Rebel's home turf in time for New Year's Eve. The newlyweds celebrated NYE aboard a boat on Sydney Harbour on Tuesday night, where they had a prime view of the world famous fireworks display. Sharing a glimpse at their luxurious festivities on Instagram, Rebel and Ramona shared a sweet kiss as fireworks exploded overhead. Other images and videos showed the pair enjoying champagne with friends as they floated on the ocean with a stunning view of the lit-up Harbour Bridge. Rebel and Romana cuddled up for a series of sweet selfies, with Rebel looking glamorous in an off-the-shoulder black party dress. Her fashion designer partner matched her new wife in a black ensemble accented with strings of pearls. Rebel Wilson and wife Ramona Agruma are back on Rebel's home turf in time for New Year's Eve. Both pictured The newlyweds celebrated NYE aboard a boat on Sydney Harbour, where they had a prime view of the world famous fireworks display Other images and videos showed the pair enjoying champagne with friends as they floated on the ocean with a stunning view of the lit-up Harbour Bridge Rebel married her wife Ramona for a second time in Australia this weekend. The Pitch Perfect star, 44, confirmed the news on her Instagram on Sunday, sharing a series of photos of the couple after they legally tied the knot in her hometown. Rebel revealed her sister Liberty officiated the wedding, which was attended by their closest family and friends. 'My sister Liberty officiated our legal wedding in Sydney!' she wrote. 'It meant my 94 year old grandmother Gar could come which was very special to us to have her included and just felt right to do it in my hometown at this glorious time of the year!' In the photos, Rebel looked stylish in an off the shoulder pink dress as she posed with Ramona at Sydney Harbour. The couple were all smiles as they shared a kiss in another image, with the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge. They also posed with Rebel's proud grandmother Gar as they enjoyed a celebratory meal after the ceremony. Rebel and Romana cuddled up for a series of sweet selfies, with Rebel looking glamorous in an off-the-shoulder black party dress Sharing a glimpse at their luxurious festivities on Instagram, Rebel and Ramona shared a sweet kiss as fireworks exploded overhead Her fashion designer partner matched her new wife in a black ensemble accented with strings of pearls Rebel and Ramona tied the knot in Sardinia, Italy, on September 28, and daughter Royce was their flower girl. It was the perfect fairytale location for the couple to exchange vows as they notably holidayed in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, just days after going Instagram official with their romance in 2022. The Bridesmaids actress and her partner were reportedly supposed to get married in a 2025 beach wedding but Rebel decided to move up the date. The couple first met in 2021 and announced their engagement in February 2023. DailyMail.com exclusively shared the news of their nuptials, revealing the couple were 'thrilled' to be tying the knot. 'Rebel is really excited to be getting married to the love of her life, absolutely thrilled,' a source shared ahead of the big day. 'It is going to be stunning and super romantic. She is madly in love and can't wait to be wed.' 'Rebel doesn't want to wait any longer, she is happy to marry this month because she is very much in love with Ramona and wants to be wed,' the source added. The Sydney-born actress came out in June 2022 and debuted her relationship with Ramona in a sweet post at the same time, sharing a cozy selfie of them alongside some heartfelt words. 'I thought I was searching for a Disney Prince... but maybe what I really needed all this time was a Disney Princess,' she gushed in an Instagram post at the time. The couple went on to welcome their daughter Royce Lillian via surrogate in November 2022. Oliver Proudlock and Emma Connelly have revealed they are expecting their second child. The couple took to Instagram on New Year's Eve to share the joyous news, with Emma showing off her baby bump in a sweet video while they fussed over their two-year-old daughter Bonnie. They captioned the post: '2024, thank you for the greatest gift ever! Our hearts and hands are gonna be fuller than ever in 2025, and we couldnt be more excited! 'Sending love and wishing you all the happiest of New Years. Yeah Baby! ' Emma, 33, looked glowing in the heartwarming clip as she highlighted her growing baby bump in a chic black jumpsuit. Meanwhile, proud dad Oliver, 36, sweetly kissed his partner's stomach, with the couple -who met in person in 2014 after four years of exchanging messages - also sharing a smooch with each other. Oliver Proudlock and Emma Connelly have revealed they are expecting their second child The couple took to Instagram on New Year's Eve to share the joyous news, with Emma showing off her baby bump in a sweet video while they fussed over their two-year-old daughter Bonnie. Emma then held up an adorable knitted jumper with the words 'yeah baby' stitched onto it. The heartwarming post garnered plenty of congratulatory messages from their fans and showbiz pals including Rochelle Humes, Daisy Lowe and Amy Jackson. Oliver and Emma's pregnancy announcement echoes that of their reveal they were expecting their first baby, with Emma seemingly wearing the same black jumpsuit and holding up a very similar knitted jumper. The pair announced the news on their one year anniversary, sharing a sweet video of the moment they were pronounced husband and wife in 2020, before cutting to Oliver holding up a newborn jumper with the phrase 'Yeah baby!' embroidered on it. Emma captioned the clip '1 year married, 1 yeah baby on the way. We are bursting with love and gratitude for our very precious little growing gift!. The couple welcomed their daughter, Bonnie Lou, in May 2022. Olivia has previously opened up about finally meting Emma face-to-face after they spent FOUR YEARS messaging each other as he explained the great lengths he went to in order to bag a first date with the model. Speaking to Tom Green on the Dangerous Dinners Podcast in 2021, the Made In Chelsea star admitted he cried 'tears of joy' as gushed about their 'crazy emotional' wedding day. They captioned the post: '2024, thank you for the greatest gift ever! Our hearts and hands are gonna be fuller than ever in 2025, and we couldnt be more excited! 'Sending love and wishing you all the happiest of New Years. Yeah Baby! ' Emma looked glowing in the heartwarming clip as she highlighted her growing baby bump in a chic black jumpsuit Meanwhile, proud dad Oliver sweetly kissed his partner's stomach, with the couple also sharing a smooch with each other Emma then held up an adorable knitted jumper with the words 'yeah baby' stitched onto it The heartwarming post garnered plenty of congratulatory messages from their fans and showbiz pals including Rochelle Humes, Daisy Lowe and Amy Jackson He explained: 'We ended up talking on Facebook for, I don't know, two or three months maybe and then she was in Glasgow this time. 'I was down in London and then about a year in she moved down to London with modelling, we got each other's number. 'We then messaged for three years. But we never met, and it was a weird one' explained Proudlock who then travelled to Glasgow years later when they were both single.' Emma and Oliver announced their engagement in August 2018 after Oliver got down on one knee during a romantic trip to Gothenburg, Sweden. They then confirmed they secretly tied the knot during in a small church ceremony in Fulham, London, on December 15 2020, by sharing a series of stunning images from their big day on Instagram. The model looked stunning in a bespoke Pronovias Atelier gown lace gown with a plunging white slip dress underneath, teamed with a flowing veil, as she said 'I do' to her reality star beau before celebrating with an intimate reception at The Ned. The pair married at St Albans Church, after previously cancelling three wedding dates due to the global crisis in accordance with government restrictions. Oliver and Emma originally planned to host 200 guests at Cowdray Park, West Sussex, for a wedding in April 2020, however their grand plans were reduced to just 15 people. Oliver and Emma's pregnancy announcement echoes that of their reveal they were expecting their first baby , with Emma seemingly wearing the same black jumpsuit and holding up the same knitted jumper The pair announced the news on their one year anniversary, sharing a sweet video of the moment they were pronounced husband and wife in 2020, before cutting to Oliver holding up a newborn jumper with the phrase 'Yeah baby!' embroidered on it Their fourth attempt to tie the knot was almost thwarted when Boris Johnson announced plans to plunge London into Tier 4, meaning that all wedding receptions were banned, but Proudlock managed to pull together a last-minute wedding. The soon-to-be parents-of-two have previously spoken about their journey to getting pregnant, leaving Emma in tears. The Made In Chelsea star and Emma appeared on Giovanna Fletcher's podcast Happy Mum, Happy Baby to talk about their first child. When Giovanna asked them about their road to getting pregnant, Ollie candidly admitted that it had been 'tough'. He said: 'It is so tough, and it is a miracle when it happens. But it is nice so many people talk about it now.' Oliver previously revealed he finally met wife Emma face-to-face after they spent four years messaging each other 'We then messaged for three years. But we never met, and it was a weird one' explained Proudlock who then travelled to Glasgow years later when they were both single The couple announced their engagement in August 2018 after Oliver got down on one knee during a romantic trip to Gothenburg, Sweden He explained that he spoke to his mum about it and she had told him that in her day people didn't speak about it. Ollie added: 'To have some support and be able to talk about it, I think is so important. The sense of community in talking about it and hearing people's stories and realising what a miracle it is.' 'Everyone has some kind of story. It's very rare to get pregnant first time. Women are so incredible, what you guys go through, unbelievable'. Emma got emotional and became very teary listening to her husband talk about their journey. Ollie comforted her and added: 'We're very emotional in this household, because there's so much love up in here!' Angelina Jolie has a promising new project set for early 2025 that will keep her passport busy. The first film the Oscar-winning actress will make since finalizing her divorce from Brad Pitt will be an action-packed female-driven movie. The 49-year-old beauty - who is now shooting Stitches in Paris - will be starring in Maude v Maude. Her costar Halle Berry has called it as a 'mix of Mr And Mrs Smith and Mission Impossible with a comedy twist' and two women in the leading roles. Deadline added it was a 'Bond vs. Bourne' type of global action thriller with exotic locations. Berry told a Red Sea International Film Festival audience that she might return to Saudi Arabia to film the movie. There will also be several other locations that filmgoers are not used to seeing in a movie, added Berry. That means Jolie will be traveling a lot for the project. A shooting date has yet to be announced, but in September Halle told Yahoo that the film is her first project for 2025: 'Going into next year that is on our docket and I'm really excited.' Angelina Jolie has a promising new project set for 2025. The first film the Oscar-winning actress will make since finalizing her divorce from Brad Pitt will be an action-packed female-driven movie. Seen in November Her costar Halle Berry has called it as a 'mix of Mr And Mrs Smith and Mission Impossible with a comedy twist' and two women in the leading roles. Deadline added it was a 'Bond vs. Bourne' type of global action thriller with exotic locations. Seen December 12 in Saudi Arabia Berry said earlier this year that she has already 'bonded' with Jolie over their 'divorces and exes'. The two have never worked together before. Halle has revealed that they actually spent some time together discussing their love lives. The 57-year-old actress - who was previously married to David Justice, Eric Benet and Olivier Martinez - told Variety: 'We've been talking a lot about divorces and exes. We bonded, let's say that.' Despite this, Halle acknowledged that their friendship actually got off to a 'rocky start'. The Hollywood actress - whose co-star has also been married three times - shared: 'We had a rocky start and I think that is going to serve us well in our screen time together.' But she also told Yahoo she admires Jolie: 'It's been a joy to work with [Angelina]. We seemed like two unlikely friends, but when we sat down with each other, we realized that we were each the thing we both needed that we didn't know we needed. You know, we have so many things in common and we realized that in our first meeting.' Other projects for Jolie in 2025: the films Every Note Played with Christoph Waltz and Maleficent 3, it has been claimed. She will also promote Without Blood which stars her pal Salma Hayek. It is not known when the film will get its theatrical release. The film premiered in the Special Presentations section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2024. Angelina will also be working on her store Atelier Jolie in NYC with kids Zahara and Vivienne. Angelina will also be working on her store Atelier Jolie in NYC with kids Zahara and Vivienne. Seen outside the shop on December 3 The year 2025 may include a Golden Globe win for her role in Maria Last week Jolie and Pitt reached a settlement in their divorce. Eight years after Angelina filed for divorce citing 'irreconcilable differences', the former couple have finally come to an agreement on terms and both have signed off on it. Angelina's lawyer James Simon told PEOPLE: 'More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. 'This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. 'Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over.' Although the split was acrimonious, a source close to Jolie added: 'She doesn't speak ill of [Pitt] publicly or privately. She's been trying hard to be light after a dark time.' Angelina, 49, filed for divorce from Brad, 61, in September 2016 after just two years of marriage. It came just days after a journey on a private plane in which Angelina claimed Brad was abusive to her and their six children but authorities did not charge him after investigating. Last week Jolie and Pitt reached a settlement in their divorce. Eight years after Angelina filed for divorce citing 'irreconcilable differences', the former couple have finally come to an agreement on terms and both have signed off on it. Seen in 2012 Angelina and Brad later released a joint statement declaring that they would keep all divorce proceedings private for the sake of their children. They said: 'The parties and their counsel have signed agreements to preserve the privacy rights of their children and family by keeping all court documents confidential and engaging a private judge to make any necessary legal decisions and to facilitate the expeditious resolution of any remaining issues. 'The parents are committed to act as a united front to effectuate recovery and reunification.' The former couple share children Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, and twins Vivienne and Knox, now 16. They were declared legally single in 2019 but have battled over custody and legal issues over their French estate and winery, Chateau Miraval, since the split. Alessandra Ambrosio believes she has 'finally found' true love with new boyfriend Buck Palmer, according to sources who say that the Australian hunk has won approval from the Victoria's Secret model's children. The 43-year-old beauty went public with the romance in early December when the couple were pictured holding hands at an Art Basel party in Miami, Florida. Alessandra has since taken their love to social media, sharing loved up videos and a snap of the pair kissing in her home country of Brazil. Now insiders have confirmed that the smitten fashion model hopes to be with her new partner 'for her entire life' due to the deep connection they share. 'Alessandra knows who her New Year's Eve kiss is going to be, and she hopes to have the same man to kiss for every New Year's Eve for her entire life,' the source exclusively dished to DailyMail.com. 'She has been through the ringer in relationships but really truly believes in love and feels like she finally found it.' Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio believes she had 'finally found' true love with new boyfriend Buck Palmer, sources tell DailyMail.com The 43-year-old beauty went public with the romance in early December, and recently shared a loved-up snap on her Instagram account Opening up about struggles she faced in her past relationships, the insider continued: 'She has been a serial monogamist in a sense and loves being in relationships but has been with men that are resentful of her fame and her money. 'Shes been told so many times that she didnt have to work and had everything handed to her and that isnt true. Buck doesnt do this.' The source added: 'He is incredibly successful in his own right as a jewelry designer and of course he designs special pieces just for her.' Meanwhile, the star has already introduced the jewelry designer to her beloved children, daughter Anja, 16, and 12-year-old son, Noah. 'She has introduced him to her children, and they really like him,' the insider noted. 'They are the toughest critics and are so protective over their mom.' Indeed, even the model's friends have noticed that her relationship appears to be a special one as the source added: 'They are incredibly physically attracted to each other and her friends have not seen her swoon like this since [her ex Jamie Mazur]. 'But what most people do not realize is that Ale is also incredibly spiritual and the two of them relate on this level deeply.' The lovebirds appear to have been dating for some time under the radar before taking their romance public as they strolled hand-in-hand at Art Basel. The source explained: 'She has been through the ringer in relationships but really truly believes in love and feels like she finally found it' The two have kept their relationship under the radar and only confirmed it with some PDA earlier in December The insider continued: 'They are incredibly physically attracted to each other and her friends have not seen her swoon like this since [her ex Jamie Mazur]' Alessandra had previously been featured with Buck in photographs shared to Instagram of them having fun at the beach during a trip to the island of Kauai in Hawaii. In the shots, the pair looked comfortable in each other's company and Alessandra tagged Buck in the post as she hinted at their relationship. She also shared a snap of herself kissing Buck on the cheek as they went Instagram official before their first public outing as a couple. Buck has a surprising connection to Alessandra as he's the ex-husband of Ashley Hart, the sister of Alessandra's fellow Victoria Secret model Jessica Hart. Alessandra has rubbed shoulders with the Australian model Jessica Hart over the years, having both risen to fame as Victoria's Secret models in the 2000s. Buck and Jessica's sister Ashley went their separate ways after just two years of marriage in 2017, with the model candidly discussing their decision to separate in 2019. Speaking to Women's Health, Ashley recalled her heartache and said she never thought she would be divorced before the age of 30. Ashley confessed that getting to a place where she could reflect back on her split from Buck in a 'lighthearted manner' took some time. Buck used to be married to model Ashley Hart (both pictured) but the couple went their separate ways after two years of marriage in January 2017 Ashley is the sister of Victoria's Secret model Jessica Hart (both pictured in May 2019), who Alessandra has rubbed shoulders with in modelling circles over the years Ashley and Buck dated for seven years before tying the knot in Los Angeles in 2015. They publicly announced their decision to separate in January 2017. Meanwhile, Brazilian model Alessandra has also had a high-profile love life over the years. She was engaged to businessman Jamie Mazur from 2008 to 2018 and they share a daughter Anja and son Noah. Alessandra has also had notable relationships with Nicolo Oddi, Richard Lee, Marcelo Boldrini and Giovani Borghetti in the past. She was most recently linked to Alexander Smurfit earlier this year before her relationship with Buck came to light. Alessandra is one of the longest-tenured models with Victoria's Secret and has walked more than 15 runways with the brand. She also returned to the catwalk for the 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, its first since the brand retired the annual show in 2019. Alessandra joined a whole host of household modeling names including Kate Moss, Tyra Banks and Carla Bruni in returning for the show. Alessandra's very first time appearing in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was back in 2000 at Cannes alongside modeling icons Tyra Banks and Gisele Bundchen. Lauren Goodger has revealed she has had to take her daughter Larose to a private hospital as she gave a health update on Instagram on Tuesday evening. The TOWIE star, 38, explained that her three-year-old daughter was diagnosed with tonsillitis and received treatment the day before. Lauren revealed she is having a 'chilled' New Year's Eve with her poorly daughter as they cosied up on the sofa watching animated movie Sing. The TV personality said she isn't bothered about ringing in the New Year as she 'doesn't drink' and instead will enjoy a relaxing evening of 'cuddles and good food'. She wrote: 'NYE looking like this... which it does every year. I don't drink on NYE haven't for years... but this is my 2nd year completely sober Xmas and NY. 'My little love got tonsillitis so we been up private hospital yesterday and today is chill day cuddles and some good food. Wouldn't want it any other way.' Lauren Goodger has revealed she has had to take her daughter Larose to a private hospital as she gave a health update on Instagram on Tuesday evening The TOWIE star, 38, explained that her three-year-old daughter has been diagnosed with tonsillitis and received treatment the day before at hospital Lauren shares daughter Larose with ex-partner Charles Drury. It comes after Lauren is reportedly 'devastated and anxious' after finding out her ex partner Mark Wright is expecting a baby with wife Michelle Keegan. The reality star had a decade-long relationship with co-star Mark until 2012 and she is now upset that she has 'been left behind'. Lauren is also said to be 'super anxious' that she may bump into happy couple Mark and Michelle as they both live near one another in Essex. A source told The Sun: 'The news has been a huge blow to Lauren and she is devastated, especially as she's not had a great Christmas, so it's the icing on the cake. 'It's hit her hard, Mark's building his perfect family and she's being left behind.' They continued: 'She's always had a lot of love for Mark, they were once childhood sweethearts and in an ideal world she would have reunited with him. 'Plus Michelle and Mark live close by, so she is super anxious that she will bump into them at some point which will be horrific for her.' Lauren revealed she is having a 'chilled' New Year's Eve with her poorly daughter as they cosied up on the sofa watching animated movie Sing Lauren shares daughter Larose with ex-partner Charles Drury (pictured) It comes after Lauren is reportedly 'devastated and anxious' after finding out her ex partner Mark Wright is expecting a baby with wife Michelle Keegan Presenter Mark and former Coronation Street actress Michelle shared their happy news they are expecting their first child on Sunday in a sweet Instagram post Lauren has denied the comments to The Sun and MailOnline have contacted Lauren's representatives for comment. Mark and Lauren, who were together for ten years on and off, rose to fame on the ITVBe reality series, with storylines revolving around his numerous flirtations with other women, including Lucy Mecklenburgh and Sam Faiers. Mark and Lauren even got engaged on TOWIE in March 2011 - only for the Essex lad to call things off five months later - and there has been bad blood between the pair ever since. A year and a half later, Mark and Michelle met on a group holiday to Dubai and fell madly in love. In September 2013, less than a year after their New Year's break, the pair were engaged, trying the knot in May 2015. But it hasn't always been smooth sailing between the happy couple and Lauren, although things are cordial these days. Ahead of his wedding to Michelle, the former reality star took to social media to hit out at his long-term love on Twitter after a war words. He had seemingly taken issue a Lauren's not-so-cryptic post, reading, 'She's the kind of girl a guy meets when he's too young and he f**ks up because there's too much living to do. But later he realises she's perfect'., Mark declared: 'If your reading this, please PLEASE respect my wife and STOP. I wish you well but leave me, my life and my wife out of it. Im sure there is other ways to make money [sic].' He then went on to re-tweet a series of responses from fans, all supporting his stance. Presenter Mark and former Coronation Street actress Michelle shared their happy news they are expecting their first child on Sunday in a sweet Instagram post. The former TOWIE star had a decade-long relationship with co-star Mark until 2012 and she is now upset that she has 'been left behind'; pictured 2011 Netflix star Michelle cradled her blossoming bump and wrote: '2025 is going to be a special one for us' The couple received hundreds of congratulatory messages from friends and family on their Instagram post including from Rochelle Humes, Kelly Brook, Vicky Pattison, and best pal Arg. A 15-year-old white teenager has pleaded guilty to attempting to drown a Black boy in the Goose Pond in Chatham, Massachusetts, in July 2023. John P. Sheeran, who was 14 during last year's attack, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. It was noted that the judge in the case charged him as a "youthful offender," which means they can sentence the 15-year-old as an adult, according to Cape Cod Times. The teen is accused of pushing a 15-year-old black boy underwater on July 19, throwing stones at him, and calling him racial slurs. Authorities previously said the attack was "racially motivated." Details of the Crime Sheeran and an accomplice---a White teen whose identity was not publicly released---allegedly met up with the Black victim at Goose Pond on July 19. The victim put on a life jacket before entering the water. Once there, the suspects allegedly grabbed the Black child's life jacket and repeatedly dunked him underwater. He is also accused of swimming underneath the victim and grabbing his feet in an attempt to pull him further into the water. Throughout the attack, Sheeran allegedly called the victim the n-word. Prosecutors said Sheeran's accomplice laughed at the victim while he was drowning. The accomplice also called him "George Floyd" when he could not breathe. George Floyd was a 46-year-old Black man who died after a White police officer in Minneapolis knelt on his neck for over nine minutes. During the incident, Floyd had repeatedly told the officer that he could not breathe. His death sparked widespread protests as part of the Black Lives Matter movement. Investigators said the attack continued until a witness, also a minor, swam into the pond to help the victim. The witness noted that Sheeran and his accomplice "were smirking" when he reached them. What Charges Will the Accomplice Face? It is unclear if Sheeran's accomplice will face any legal consequences for his role in the drowning incident. Sheeran's sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 5. It was noted by CBS News that Sheeran punched an Asian boy hours after the drowning incident after that person called him fat. Brooke Shields flaunted her impressively taut, 6ft bikini body while posing with her daughters Grier Henchy and Rowan Henchy during a barefoot beach stroll in the Bahaman capitol of Nassau on Monday. The 59-year-old former child star chose for a dark brown two-piece to go with her tan while the 18-year-old freshman and 21-year-old senior - both enrolled at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC - opted for green and black bikinis. Hours later, Rowan Instastoried a video of a cute Dachshund trotting across the surf with crystal blue waters and a vast sky dappled with clouds. Brooke - who boasts 5.2M social media followers - celebrated New Year's Eve by posting a video montage on Tuesday captioned: 'Sweet memories from 2024. Cheers to a new year!' Shields originally met her second husband - retired film producer Chris Henchy - in 1999 on the Warner Bros lot, and they celebrated 23 years of wedded bliss in April. Brooke Shields (M) flaunted her impressively taut, 6ft bikini body while posing with her daughters Grier Henchy (L) and Rowan Henchy (R) during a barefoot beach stroll in the Bahaman capitol of Nassau on Monday Flatiron Books will publish the emotional empty nester's 256-page tome Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman with co-author Rachel Bertsche on January 14. Brooke kicks off her seven-date book tour for her sixth literary effort the same day at the Peter Jay Sharp Theatre in Manhattan. Shields will executive produce and star as intrusive gynecologist Dr. Wright in Arnon Manor and Kelsey Bascom's upcoming diabetes coming-of-age comedy Quarter, which prompted her daughter Rowan to publicly disclose her own Type 1 diagnosis. 'When the movie was brought to my attention, the first thing I did was talk to Rowan. I wasn't gonna be able to be in the movie and then not talk about it,' the Gracie and Pedro actress explained to Forbes in September. 'What this movie does accomplish is that it brings to light and really helps people understand [Type 1 diabetes] and helps people understand how to react to it and that it's okay to have those feelings of discomfort.' Henchy - who was diagnosed at age 14 - is currently president of the College Diabetes Network, but she graduates college next spring. Meanwhile, Rowan's flame-haired little sister is a full-on IMG Model posting paid partnerships for brands like Poppi and Tommy Hilfiger. Quarter will also features Brooke's real-life BFF Ali Wentworth, Raven-Symone, Eric Roberts, and Breckin Meyer. The 59-year-old former child star chose for a dark brown two-piece to go with her tan while the 18-year-old freshman and 21-year-old senior - both enrolled at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC - opted for green and black bikinis Hours later, Rowan Instastoried a video of a cute Dachshund trotting across the surf with crystal blue waters and a vast sky dappled with clouds Brooke - who boasts 5.2M social media followers - celebrated New Year's Eve by posting a video montage on Tuesday captioned: 'Sweet memories from 2024. Cheers to a new year!' Shields originally met her second husband - retired film producer Chris Henchy (R, pictured last Wednesday) - in 1999 on the Warner Bros lot, and they celebrated 23 years of wedded bliss in April Flatiron Books will publish the emotional empty nester's 256-page tome Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman with co-author Rachel Bertsche on January 14 Brooke kicks off her seven-date book tour for her sixth literary effort the same day at the Peter Jay Sharp Theatre in Manhattan Shields will executive produce and star as intrusive gynecologist Dr. Wright in Arnon Manor and Kelsey Bascom's upcoming diabetes coming-of-age comedy Quarter, which prompted her daughter Rowan to publicly disclose her own Type 1 diagnosis The Gracie and Pedro actress explained to Forbes in September: 'When the movie was brought to my attention, the first thing I did was talk to Rowan. I wasn't gonna be able to be in the movie and then not talk about it' (pictured October 8) Henchy - who was diagnosed at age 14 - is currently president of the College Diabetes Network, but she graduates college next spring (pictured wearing Dexcom patch in 2023) Ariana Grande shared a never-before seen snap with boyfriend Ethan Slater as she reflected on a monumental 2024. The Wicked star, 31, cozied up to the Boq actor, 32, in a sweet black and white snap with fellow star Jeff Goldblum, 72. She wrote: 'A year full of art and heart. thank you eternally for your love and support, words truly dont suffice. i love you always and am wishing you a all a very happy new year ! This comes after Grande treated fans to a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Wicked, with Slater missing. Nowhere to be seen in the dozen snaps and clips, Slater's omission came just days after his ex-wife Lilly Jay broke her silence on their eyebrow-raising romance. Grandes relationship with Slater made headlines in mid-2023, shortly after her split from Dalton Gomez and Slaters divorce filing from his high school sweetheart Jay, with whom he shares a child. Ariana Grande shared a never-before seen snap with boyfriend Ethan Slater as she reflected on a monumental 2024 She also shared a fun snap on the set of her The Boy Is Mine set In a Thursday essay, Jay revealed she moved to London with their two-month-old son while Slater filmed Wicked, only for him to leave her for Grande after they met on set. Though reports claim Ariana and Ethan were 'relieved' that Jay didnt completely throw them under the bus in her piece, Ariana seemed to keep her beau out of the spotlight in her cheerful carousel of Wicked moments. The post featured snaps with costars Cynthia Erivo, Bowen Yang, and others, but no sign of Slater. 'One month of @wickedmovie, thank you for your overwhelming love and embrace! I love you, we love you,' Ariana captioned the post. Meanwhile, Lilly wrote in her essay, 'I confidently moved to another country with my 2-month-old baby and my husband to support his career. Consumed by the magic and mundanity of new motherhood, I didn't understand the growing distance between us.' She expressed there are 'days when I can't escape the promotion of a movie associated with the saddest days of my life are darker' as she while trying to 'accept the sudden public downfall of my marriage.' 'No one gets married thinking they'll get divorced, in the same way we don't board a plane expecting to crash,' she wrote. Lilly then seemingly referenced to Ethan and Ariana with, 'I really never thought I would get divorced.' She posted a snap with her mom and brother Frankie The star was seen sharing a group hug while in costume on the set Grande wore Mickey Mouse ears in another fun snap She posed with her co-star Cynthia Erivo and Michelle Yeoh 'Especially not just after giving birth to my first child and especially not in the shadow of my husband's new relationship with a celebrity.' 'In this season of shock and mourning, over a year after the end of my marriage was made public, I deeply miss the life of invisibility I created for myself as a psychologist specializing in women's mental health.' Jay then stated that her 'partnership has changed' with Ethan, their 'parenthood has not' while raising their son. Though reports claim Ariana and Ethan were 'relieved' that Jay didnt completely throw them under the bus in her piece, Ariana seemed to keep her beau out of the spotlight in her cheerful carousel of Wicked moments The post featured snaps with costars Cynthia Erivo , Bowen Yang and others, but no sign of Slater A cute BTS with Cynthia and Ariana 'One month of @wickedmovie, thank you for your overwhelming love and embrace! I love you, we love you,' Ariana captioned the post 'Both of us fiercely love our son 100 percent of the time, regardless of how our parenting time is divided.' Lilly further opened up about motherhood post-divorce and penned, 'Days with my son are sunny. Motherhood, I have learned, fills your time but not your mind.' 'In the countless hours I spend rocking my son to sleep, pushing his stroller, marveling at his sweaty little hands grasping a crayon, I work diligently on my private project of accepting the sudden public downfall of my marriage.' 'This, I tell myself, is nothing to be ashamed of and nothing to hide,' the psychologist continued in the essay. Jay later got candid with readers about dealing post-partum depression after welcoming her son and amid the split. Lilly said that she 'feared that loss of control and postpartum depression would destroy her 'entire adult life.' She also wrote about how the split affected her job and reflected on 'the unfairness of a public divorce.' 'Slowly but surely, I have come to believe that in the absence of the life I planned with my high-school sweetheart, a lifetime of sweetness is waiting for me and my child,' she wrote. Meanwhile, Lilly wrote in her essay, 'I confidently moved to another country with my 2-month-old baby and my husband to support his career. Consumed by the magic and mundanity of new motherhood, I didn't understand the growing distance between us' Ariana finished with a photo of a rainbow 'You know how a sponge is most effective at absorbing liquid when it's already a bit wet?' she continued. 'Maybe we can think about my messy not-so-personal life in that way: a dose of my own loss, rage, powerlessness, sadness that helps me hold yours.' While pregnant with her son, Jay penned that she 'never felt happier nor more aware of how precarious happiness could be.' Lilly also revealed, 'I survived preeclampsia, a life-threatening birth complication, and finally, our family was whole. Mine is a story of worrying in the wrong direction.' After Lilly's essay was published, a source told DailyMail.com that both Slater and Grande were 'relieved' she did not 'throw them under the bus.' 'Ethan and Ariana are fully aware of what happened, as is everyone who was around at the time. [Lilly] made it clear that she moved to London with him and the timeline from that point forward speaks for itself.' The insider added, 'Filming was still occurring when they were first seen being intimate in photos and Lilly was no longer there so people can put two and two together - Lilly didn't need to.' Jay and Slater's divorce agreement prevented her from 'disclosing certain details about the events that transpired' in regards to the split, but she could still share 'her emotions surrounding the ordeal.' 'During the legal proceedings, Lilly was essentially silenced, unable to speak freely. Despite the circumstances, she came out of the divorce a winner,' they said. 'I really never thought I would get divorced.' 'Especially not just after giving birth to my first child and especially not in the shadow of my husband's new relationship with a celebrity,' she seemingly wrote of Ethan and Ariana Jay then stated that her 'partnership has changed' with Ethan, their 'parenthood has not' while raising their son'; seen in 2018 The source continued by sharing Jay showed 'dignity' by not publicly talking about 'the affair.' 'She knows that one day her son will read about this online and she wanted him to read that her first and only words on this were done so in a respectful and classy manner.' In regards to the 'sponge' analogy in the essay, the insider stated that it had been a dig at her ex. He notably played the character of Spongebob on Broadway. 'The 'sponge' analogy was a subtle jab at the situation, but now that her story is out, she feels liberated,' they said. 'Though she was approached by nearly every media outlet, Lilly didn't want to give an interview until she was ready,' the source claimed. 'She wanted to control her own narrative and tell her story on her terms. And she did just that.' Following the essay, Ethan was also slammed by fans on social media over his 'deeply disappointing treatment' of Lilly. One penned on X, 'Ethan slater IS an horrible person idk why some of y'all defending him and im sorry but theres no man on earth, especially NOT that one who's worth any of this.' Another added, 'Did not know lily jay was a therapist... her article is so well written and ethan slater is trash and i hope ariana wakes up and realizes that a man who leaves his post partum wife is not a forever kinda person lol.' 'Ethan Slater is the worst type of person. His relationship with Ariana will be over within a year, promise,' one wrote, while a fan typed that the actor, 'is a truly horrible person for what he put his ex wife through.' 'Ethan Slater's actions are deeply disappointing and disrespectful to his wife, especially after all she's been through,' another said. Gossip Girl alum Chanel Maya Banks is allegedly stirring up drama to reignite a stalled acting career, according to a private investigator hired by her relatives. Last week, Banks filed a restraining order against her mother, Lutchmin Judy Kumar, and cousin Danielle, accusing them of lying about her being missing and conspiring to 'harass and spread lies' to damage her credibility and career. This comes just one month after her family publicly reported her missing. On Tuesday, private detective Sonny Elliott told TMZ that Chanels family hired him out of genuine concern for her well-being. 'This is clearly a woman trying to save an acting career that ended during the Obama administration,' Elliott said of Banks. Cousin Danielle also spoke with TMZ, calling the situation 'all for the last 15 minutes of fame.' Gossip Girl alum Chanel Maya Banks is allegedly stirring up family drama to reignite a stalled acting career, according to a private investigator hired by her relatives On Tuesday, private detective Sonny Elliott told TMZ that Chanels family hired him out of genuine concern for her well-being; (seen in 2012) Elliott noted that Chanel has blocked both her mother and cousin on her phone and social media, making it impossible for them to harass her as alleged in her restraining order. He also provided more insight into Chanels time in Texas, where police eventually located her after she was reported missing. He said she initially traveled there intending to write about a religious cult but ended up becoming entangled in it herself. For her part, Chanel has stated that her trip to Texas was motivated by her desire to be baptized by her favorite pastor. Cousin Danielle weighed in, saying, 'We now believe she wants publicity, maybe hoping to bring more people to the 'church' or high-control group, aka a cult.' In last week's filing, Chanel claimed that both her mother and cousin 'acted together to harass and spread lies' in order to destroy her 'credibility' and career. The actress further alleged that the pair's missing person report last month was 'manufactured' and claimed they accused her husband of one year, Carlos, of murdering her. 'They orchestrated this scheme in order to humiliate me publicly and ruin my professional acting career,' she alleged. Chanel Maya Banks, 36, has filed a restraining order against both her mother and cousin after they reported her missing just one month earlier Banks also claimed that on November 10, her mother and cousin broke in and 'burglarized' her apartment when she had been away. She additionally claimed that the pair stole her husband's work badge and placed an Apple AirTag on her vehicle in order to follow her whereabouts. The star - who attempted to distance herself from her family in October - then alleged that they 'assaulted' her husband and caused 'visible injuries on his face and neck.' However, sources informed TMZ that Carlos already had marks on his body before Lutchmin and Danielle entered her apartment last month. Banks claimed that she filed police reports following the alleged incidents. Along with claiming that they accused her husband of murder, she also alleged that both her mother and cousin wanted to put her on a 5150 psychiatric hold. The Blue Bloods actress further alleged in the documents that the pair also sent text messages where they threatened to 'weaponize the police' against her. Chanel is requesting that the court prevent Kumar and Singh from contacting her - and has also asked that they stop talking about her publicly. 'They orchestrated this scheme in order to humiliate me publicly and ruin my professional acting career,' she alleged It comes shortly after the actress's family insisted she has been 'brainwashed' by a Christian cult. When she was initially discovered, Banks said she was fleeing her family to be baptized by doomsday Pastor Robert Clancey, who had recently advertised a three-day 'end times prophetic gathering' in Texas and claimed her family had abused her. In turn, her loved ones bizarrely claimed claimed she was being imitated by an imposter online. In a press conference in LA last month, her mother and cousin slammed the abuse claims as 'false' and claimed the actress was being held against her will in the Christian group - before breaking down in tears. Banks proved she wasn't missing in dramatic fashion by sharing a YouTube video teasing an upcoming tell-all interview on her 'toxic' family. In an apparent attempt to disprove the claims, Banks shared a YouTube reel of herself preparing to speak about the strange saga, telling fans: 'As you can see, I am alive.' 'Interview loading,' she added while gazing at the camera in a full face of makeup. Banks also updated her Instagram bio to say: 'I AM NOT MISSING. I just want to be free of a toxic woman and her family. INTERVIEW INCOMING.' The star - who attempted to distance herself from her family in October - then alleged that they 'assaulted' her husband and caused 'visible injuries on his face and neck' Following a two-week search for the star, who played Sawyer Bennett in Gossip Girl, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) located a 36-year-old in Texas, claiming they had found the actress unharmed. Singh previously took to her Instagram stories to share: 'I have the still from Texas PD body cam footage that was shown to us on Monday Nov 11 at the Pacific Police Station in LA.' 'This is the woman they're telling us is Chanel. We have told them this is not Chanel. They didn't listen to us and closed the case.' 'That's why @ohhheychanel won't post a video saying she's safe because it's not Chanel,' Singh wrote, after flying in from Toronto to help with the search. Singh previously said LAPD's update was 'fake news' and that the woman they found and claimed to be Banks is an 'imposter.' She added that she will continue distributing 'Missing Persons' flyers, ABC7 reported. It comes after Banks took to social media with a statement in which she made the series of strong allegations against her family. It was not immediately clear if Banks penned the posts herself on the account, which is verified and has made a total of 70 posts in more than three-and-a-half years,' per KTLA. She purportedly said on the social media site: 'My name is Chanel Banks I'm a 36 year old American nobody,' adding her family members 'are all so very "concerned" about my current whereabouts.' Banks, who also appeared on a 2010 episode of Blue Bloods, acknowledged that she had spoken with law enforcement amid the probe into her alleged vanishing. It comes after Banks took to social media with a statement in which she made the series of strong allegations against her family 'I have met with the police and verified that not only am I okay, but I'm finally free from my ... family,' Banks said. She alluded to her religious faith as a factor in why she had cut off contact with some of her relatives. 'They say, once you're free in Christ Jesus, you're free indeed, so I told my husband six days ago I was going to get baptized by one of my favorite pastors Pastor Robert Clancy,' Banks wrote. 'He drove me to the airport and then I was off for a week.' She continued, 'God said: "I'm going to give you some money and I was shocked when it appeared just like He said!" Banks said God told her to move, so she took a first-class flight 'to the Promise Land.' The actress also said she was 'releasing a clarion call to those in high places who still have a soul and want to keep it in such a time as this. Reach out. Help me.' Banks said she 'found out hours before leaving' that some of her relatives 'were vehemently pursuing a CONSERVATORSHIP [i.e.] complete legal control.' She added that 'there will be no more lies' and that 'everything in the darkness must come to light ... thus says the Lord.' Banks said she 'found out hours before leaving' that some of her relatives 'were vehemently pursuing a CONSERVATORSHIP [i.e.] complete legal control'; seen above in Gossip Girl However, Chanel seemingly has been moving on and one day before filing the restraining orders, she jumped to her Instagram account to celebrate the holidays on Wednesday 'And we love you and we hope that you have a wonderful, wonderful holiday shared with those that you love,' she said, while her husband added, 'It's the best feeling in the world' Banks ended her statement in saying: 'PLEASE DO NOT DONATE TO ANY GO FUND ME THAT SAYS I'M MISSING I AM NOT MISSING.' Relatives of the actress had previously reported her missing, claiming her husband Carlos Jimenez hadn't been helping them in their search. Police subsequently said that Banks, a resident of Playa Vista, California, had been located unharmed in Texas and that no foul play was suspected in the now-closed case. Banks' family claims they last heard from her on October 30 when she texted her cousin Danielle-Tori Singh, who was leading the fundraiser for her urgent return. However, Chanel seemingly has been moving on and one day before filing the restraining orders, she jumped to her Instagram account to celebrate the holidays on Wednesday. In a short clip, both she and her husband Carlos could be seen sitting in front of a decorated Christmas tree while wearing festive attire. While gazing towards the camera, Banks expressed, 'We just wanted to say Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukah! Because it's on the same day this year.' 'And we love you and we hope that you have a wonderful, wonderful holiday shared with those that you love,' she said, while her husband added, 'It's the best feeling in the world.' The video concluded as they both shared a kiss and said 'I love you' to each other as the tune Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas by Kenny G softly played in the background. Another US airline has filed for bankruptcy, just one month after the collapse of Spirit. Silver Airways flies to vacation hotspots across Florida and the Caribbean - prompting fears for the fate of trips planned by Americans looking for winter sun. It pairs up with other bigger airlines like United and JetBlue for the final leg of trips to smaller airports in Florida and the Bahamas. It also has flights in the US Virgin Islands, and Puerta Rico. The regional airline, which serves 29 destinations with a fleet of ATR turboprop planes, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday. But it has reassured customers that it will continue operating as usual for the time being. The airline, which operates flights out of Tampa International Airport in Florida, confirmed that all its tickets remain valid. Future flights can also still be booked on travel websites or on Silver's website. The airline, which has debts as high as $500 million, hopes to complete the bankruptcy process by the end of 2025. It will Budget airline Silver Airways filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday Among the creditors are the IRS, which is reportedly owed $2.1 million, and airport authorities in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, who are owed at least $1 million each. 'This decision will allow us to secure additional capital and undertake a financial restructuring that will strengthen our position as a competitive airline,' the company said in a statement. The airline appeared to be in trouble in 2023, when it was reportedly not paying rent at its Fort Lauderdale hub. The airline ran up a seven figure debt at the airport and faced eviction, View From The Wing reported. The writing was firmly on the wall when American Airlines dropped them as a codeshare partner earlier this year. Silver then stopped flying any further north of Greenville-Spartanburg in South Carolina and continued to hemorrhage cash, the publication reported. The bankruptcy filing comes after America's biggest budget airline, Spirit Airlines, filed for bankruptcy in November. Spirit has suffered a long run of quarterly losses, with its last annual profit made in 2019. The no-frills airline lost more than $2.5billion since the start of 2020 and faces looming debt payments totaling more than $1billion over the next year. The company has struggled to recover since the Covid-19 pandemic nearly shut down the airline industry and was hard hit again when problems with RTX's Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines grounded many of its aircraft. Spirit Airlines, the nation's biggest budget airline, filed for bankruptcy in November Ultra-low-cost carriers, which excelled at keeping their expenses low and offering affordable, no-frills travel, have struggled since the pandemic as travelers prefer to pay extra for a more comfortable journey as they pursue experiences. Spirit's troubles, along with those at some of its rival budget carriers, have spurred talks of a flawed business model among some Wall Street analysts. Satnam Singh Gambhir, the East India President of the All India Sikh Students Federation, has strongly criticized the central government for denying the request of Manmohan Singh's family to perform his last rites at Rajghat. Gambhir described the refusal as a "highly reprehensible act" and called it an insult to both the former Prime Minister and the Sikh community at large. In a statement issued earlier today, Gambhir stated that Manmohan Singh, the countrys only Sikh Prime Minister, deserved to be treated with the same respect and dignity as other former Prime Ministers, particularly in light of his decade-long service to the nation. He noted that it has been a tradition to conduct the last rites of former prime ministers at Rajghat, irrespective of the duration of their tenure. He added, "While the last rites of former prime ministers with shorter tenures have been honored at Rajghat, the denial to a leader who guided the country for 10 years is a clear disrespect." Gambhir expressed his dismay over what he called a discriminatory act against the Sikh community. He highlighted the contributions of the Sikh community to Indias growth and progress, saying, "The Sikh community has made significant sacrifices for this nation, and yet, they are continuously discriminated against by the government." He pointed out that if such treatment could be meted out to a former Prime Minister, it reflects the broader marginalization of the Sikh community within the country. Further condemning the government's actions, Gambhir remarked, "The central government has shown no regard for the issues of imprisoned Sikhs, the farmers, or now the Sikh Prime Minister's family. This attitude towards the Sikh community is deeply troubling and creates a sense of alienation among the minority community." He concluded by urging the central government to respect the sentiments of Manmohan Singhs family and the Sikh community, asserting that such discriminatory actions only exacerbate divisions in the country. "The contributions of the Sikh community to Indias progress cannot be overlooked, and their dignity must be upheld," he said. In a function organized at TCB Division of BHEL, Bhopal, SM Ramanathan, Executive Director accompanied by General Managers Avinash Chandra, GP Baghel, SK Mahajan, Alok Sengar, Rajesh Kumar Agarwal, handed over the "Compact & Energy Efficient 110 MVAR 765 kV Reactor" manufactured by TRM Department to POWERGRID for installation at Khavda Substation. On this occasion, Ramanathan appreciated the performance of TCB Division and motivated the engineers to design and manufacture better products. BHEL, Bhopal has recently developed, manufactured and successfully tested this reactor in presence of POWERGRID representatives. POWERGRID has placed an order for 72 nos. of 765 kV class reactors to BHEL, out of which first reactor has been supplied. These reactors are also designed to be compact and energy efficient, conforming to the total loss and resistive loss limits prescribed by Central Electricity Authority. They are designed with special FEM software to minimize vibrations and stresses on the surface of the reactor tank. These technical parameters were also demonstrated during its successful testing at UHV Lab, BHEL Bhopal. These reactors will be installed at POWERGRID's Khavda-II Pooling Substation, Gujarat and will help in harnessing the energy generated from various solar and wind power plants in Gujarat and transmitting it to the needy industries and other load centres. It will also be a significant contribution of BHEL in achieving India's target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil power capacity by the year 2030. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that all pending infrastructure development and construction works should be completed as soon as possible in a planned manner. There should be no shortage in the quality of construction work. The performance of officers will be evaluated only on the quality of work. Ensure that all types of work are completed within the stipulated time frame. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav gave instructions to this effect to the officials in a high level meeting regarding the development and construction works of Rewa and Shahdol divisions at Samatva Bhawan (Chief Ministers residence) on Monday. He said that if the construction work is not up to standard or of quality, then the concerned officers will be held responsible for it. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Kumar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary in the Chief Ministers Office Dr. Rajesh Rajoura, Additional Chief Secretary in-charge of Rewa division Shri J.N. Kansotiya, Additional Chief Secretary in-charge of Shahdol division, Shri Neeraj Mandloi, Additional Chief Secretary Higher Education Shri Anupam Rajan, Principal Secretary Shri Sanjay Shukla, Principal Secretary Smt. Deepali Rastogi, Principal Secretary Shri Vivek Porwal and other senior officers were present in the meeting. MPs and MLAs from both divisions also participated virtually in the meeting. In the meeting, special discussion was held on points and pending works related to the Water Resources Department/M.P. Pollution Control Board, Public Works Department, Energy Department, Forest Department, Higher Education Department, Urban Administration and Housing Development Department, Panchayat and Rural Development, Tribal Affairs Department, School Education and Culture Department. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that suggestions from public representatives should be taken in public-related works. Therefore, all departmental officers should communicate with local MPs, MLAs, and other local public representatives regarding the construction works of their respective departments, take suggestions from them, and also implement these suggestions. He said that the construction works which provide immediate relief and convenience to the public should be completed on priority. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the public representatives of the district do not get enough time to present their views in division-level meetings. Therefore, now the Additional Chief Secretary in charge of all the divisions should first conduct district-wisereviews, listen to the views and suggestions of all MLAs and local public representatives, and only then review the pending construction works in a coordinated manner in the divisional level meeting. Yadav directed that the construction work of the Gode Irrigation Project of Sidhi district should be completed as soon as possible. The remaining work should also be completed expeditiously by removing obstacles in the upgradation work of Sidhi-Singrauli National Highway. Additional Chief Secretary in charge of Rewa division said that under the Redensification Scheme, a new collectorate building will be constructed in the newly formed Maihar and Mauganj districts. Construction of 3C-type residential houses in Mauganj will also be done by PWD (Building Wing). The new collectorate buildings of both districts will be built at a cost of about Rs 43 crore each. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav gave instructions to build new collectorate buildings in both the new districts based on the standard model built in other districts of the state. On the demand of public representatives, the Chief Minister has started the departments of Sanskrit, Sociology, Home Science, etc. at the undergraduate level in the Government Jagannath Singh Smriti College at Chitrangi in Singrauli district and approval was also given to run the Hindi Literature, Sociology, Geography, Sanskrit, Political Science and History Faculty the postgraduate level in the same college. Chitrakoot will develop on the lines of Ayodhya The development of Chitrakoot was discussed in detail in the review of the Urban Development and Housing Development Department. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the holy city Chitrakoot will now be developed on the lines of Ayodhya. Additional Chief Secretary in-charge said that for the overall development of Chitrakoot, Rs 60 crore has been allocated by Municipal Council Chitrakoot and a development proposal worth Rs 88 crore was sent to the government by the M.P. Housing Board. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that an entity development plan should be made for the all-round development of Chitrakoot. For this, suggestions should be taken from everyone and by incorporating everyones suggestions, real development of Chitrakoot should be done like Ramnagari Ayodhya. Preparation for construction of Maa Sharda Lok in Maihar Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Maa Sharda Lok will be constructed here for the overall development of the world-famous Maa Sharda Temple of Maihar. Culture, Tourism, and Endowment Departments should make combined efforts so that Maa Sharda Lok can be constructed soon. Commissioner Rewa Shri B.S. Jamod told that the preliminary design for Maa Sharda Public Works has been prepared by the Executive Engineer, Tourism Department, Rewa. The process of approval is being taken at a higher level for its construction. Additional Chief Secretary in charge will conduct a review in Shahdol on 7th January Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said during the review of the Shahdol division that action will be taken on all the suggestions of public representatives. Development work will be done as per requirement. The arrangements will be further improved. A bridge will also be built across the Sone River under Shahdol division. Necessary human resources will be supplied in the division. He told the public representatives that the Additional Chief Secretary in charge of Shahdol division, Shri Neeraj Mandloi will hold a meeting in Shahdol on January 7, 2025. All public representatives should give their suggestions. The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) on Monday condemned the recent incident in Fatehpur district, where a 47-year-old Dalit man was paraded after his head was shaved and he was beaten. Describing the act as barbaric, the party called for an impartial investigation, the arrest of the perpetrators, and strict punishment. CPI (ML) state secretary Sudhakar Yadav, in a statement issued on Monday, highlighted the rising morale of Manuwadi feudal elements with an anti-Dalit mindset under the current Yogi Adityanath-led government. The incident occurred on December 27 in Behlopur Alai village, where a Dalit man named Shivbadan was attacked by the accused, who alleged that he was pressuring people to convert to Christianity. The attackers beat his entire family, including his wife and children, and dragged Shivbadan to a temple where they shaved his head, beat him with shoes, paraded him to another temple, forced him to recite Hanuman Chalisa, and then beat him again. According to the victim, the accused were upper-caste individuals and members of the Bajrang Dal. Yadav stated that the police initially refused to register an FIR, but after pressure, they registered the FIR from the victim and also filed a counter-FIR on behalf of the accused. He further demanded that the Human Rights Commission take note of this shameful incident, which, he argued, violated the principles of humanity and the Constitution. Criticising the governments claims of promoting a developed India, Yadav emphasised that such incidents were still occurring in the state. He also condemned Home Minister Amit Shah for allegedly insulting Dr BR Ambedkars legacy and the Constitution. Yadav questioned whether the BJPs vision of a developed India was based on Manusmriti, the ancient text that enforces caste-based discrimination. The Prayagraj Railway Division is nearing completion of its preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025, aiming to provide a seamless experience for the millions of devotees travelling to the festival by train. As part of the preparations, the division has announced dedicated entry and exit routes at all stations to handle the surge of pilgrims during key bathing festivals like Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Vasant Panchami, and Maghi Purnima. To avoid chaos, separate pathways will be used for entry and exit, safeguarding the flow of devotees. With an estimated 45 crore devotees attending the Maha Kumbh, around 10 crore are expected to travel to Prayagraj by train, officials said here. In response, the Prayagraj Railway Division has planned to run approximately 13,000 trains, including 3,000 special fair trains, as part of efforts by the double-engine government to ensure the success of the event. Public Relations Officer Amit Singh outlined the entry and exit plan for Prayagraj Railway Division stations during the main bathing festivals of Maha Kumbh. At Prayagraj Junction, entry will be allowed only from the city side via platform No. 1, while exit will be restricted to the Civil Lines side, he stated. Besides, unreserved passengers will be guided to the appropriate train and platform through designated passenger shelter areas, organised direction-wise according to their destination station, he informed. For reserved or pre-reserved passengers, a separate entry point has been designated at gate number 5 on the city side of Prayagraj Junction. Similarly, at Naini Junction, entry will be permitted only from Station Road, with exit limited to the second entrance towards the warehouse (maalgodam). At Prayagraj Chheoki station, entry will be via the COD road connecting the Prayagraj-Mirzapur highway, while exit will be through GEC Naini Road. On the days of bathing festivals, entry to Subedarganj station will be permitted only from Jhalwa, Kaushambi Road, while exit will be allowed exclusively from GT Road. At Prayagraj Junction, entry will be through Chatham Line at Platform No. 1, and exit via Rampriya Road at Platform No. 4. However, passengers, whether reserved or unreserved, will be granted entry only through the second entrance on Sahason Road. At Phaphamau station, entry will be restricted to the second entrance at Platform No. 4, and exit will be from Phaphamau Market. For Prayagraj Rambagh station, entry will be allowed only from the main entrance at Hanuman Mandir Chauraha, with exit restricted to Louder Road. Meanwhile, Prayagraj Sangam and Daraganj stations will remain closed during the main bathing festivals as they are situated within the fair area. To accommodate devotees arriving for Maha Kumbh, passenger shelters have been set up at all Prayagraj stations, capable of housing 3,000 to 4,000 passengers. These shelters are colour-coded to guide Facilities for unreserved ticketing, including ticket counters, ATMs, and mobile ticketing, will be available within the shelters. Reserved passengers will be allowed to access the platform only 30 minutes before their trains arrival. The Prayagraj Railway Division has implemented comprehensive measures to manage the increased crowd effectively and prevent any untoward incidents during the fair. Recently, Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Maheshwari, Professor in the Department of Pediatrics of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhopal, delivered a keynote address on "Precocious Puberty in Girls A Rising Concern" at the 55th Annual State Conference of MPPEDICON, organized by the Madhya Pradesh Indian Academy of Pediatrics (MPIAP)." He highlighted the alarming trend of early puberty in girls, which is now being observed below the normal age of 8 years. Drawing insights from a recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA, he emphasized that the onset of puberty has been advancing by three months per decade. Dr. Maheshwari discussed the impact of lifestyle factors such as stress, inadequate sleep, excessive mobile use, junk food consumption, and obesity on early puberty. In this conference, Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Maheshwari received the prestigious Prof. Dr. K. K. Kaul Gold Medal for Eminent Teacher in Pediatrics, presented by Prof. Dr. K. K. Kaul and Padma Shri Dr. Pukhraj Bafna. Blog Archive: Mar 2025 (70) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) Haryana Chief Secretary Vivek Joshi on Monday said that the State has consistently topped the PRAGATI Dashboard 29 times in the past 39 months, showcasing the sustained excellence and commitment of the state police force since June 2021. The portal is supervised by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for all states and union territories. In addition, State Police has also achieved a perfect 10/10 score on the RTS dashboard for citizen services provided through the HarSamay portal. As of December 26, 2024, Haryana Police has completed over 64,57,071 applications, processing them within the prescribed timelines. This performance has placed Haryana Police at the forefront among all departments in the state, with the highest number of applications processed through the SARAL portal, Joshi said after presiding over the 29th meeting of the State Apex Committee for Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) here in Chandigarh. In the meeting it was informed that e-Summon facility has been successfully implemented in Sirsa district which was selected for this pilot project. The Chief Secretary was informed that the e-Summon portal will be made operational by 31st January in the state. It was also informed that the provision of sending alerts from e-Prsions to concerned SHOs and SPs on release of wanted persons and repeated offenders has been made. Significant developments were also reported during the meeting regarding the implementation of various technological initiatives. State Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Dr Sumita Misra said the state government is strengthening the prosecution department by creating law officer posts under the new criminal laws and filling the vacancies. State DGP Shatrujeet Kapur, Commissioner & Secretary, Citizen Resources Information Department Vikas Gupta, and senior officers of SCRB, Prisons and IT departments were present in the meeting. Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Monday announced that all eight bomb blast incidents targeting police installations in the state have been successfully solved. The state police chief claimed that a total 14 individuals, all linked to the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and the Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), have been arrested in this connection. These terrorist groups, with handlers based in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Pakistan, were responsible for a series of deadly blasts that shook Punjab in recent weeks. DGP Yadav, addressing the media in a video message, revealed that these terrorist groups, through five distinct modules, orchestrated the blasts using grenades and RDX. Three of these modules are associated with the BKI, while two are linked to the KZF, he said. The police investigation has led to the arrest of key operatives and the seizure of crucial materials, including two AK-47 rifles, five grenades, two Glock pistols, and 1.04 kg heroin, he informed. The bomb blasts, which occurred between late November and December 2024, targeted various police installations, including police chowkis and check posts, in a bid to disturb the peace and stability of the region. The explosions, which involved sophisticated weaponry, have been traced back to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, further complicating the security scenario in the state. The use of Austrian-made Arges grenades, notorious for their involvement in the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts and the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, was particularly alarming. These grenades, now believed to be sourced from Pakistans old army stock, have once again surfaced in Punjab, underscoring the persistent threat posed by cross-border terrorism. The blast incidents began on November 23 with an improvised explosive device (IED) weighing about 1.5 kg planted at the Ajnala police station. Subsequent explosions followed at various locations, including Gurbaksh Nagar in Amritsar (November 29), Ansaro police post in Nawanshahr (December 2), and Majitha police station in Amritsar (December 4). On December 18, grenade blast took place at Bakshiwala police check post in Kalanaur, Gurdaspur; and at Wadala Bangar police check post in Kalanaur, Gurdaspur on December 20. While some attacks failed to cause significant damage, others, such as the explosion near the Islamabad police station in Amritsar on December 17, caused widespread panic, shaking nearby homes. The police also foiled several attacks, such as the grenade attack at Ghania Ke Bangar police station in Batala, which did not detonate. The targeted police installations were predominantly located in vulnerable areas, with six active police chowkis and two abandoned police posts. These installations, which often served as barricades on roads, were increasingly seen as prime targets for the terrorists, who aimed to disrupt the functioning of law enforcement agencies. DGP Yadav stressed that these attacks were part of a larger conspiracy orchestrated by Pakistan-based terrorist organizations BKI, led by Harvinder Rinda, and KZF, headed by Ranjit Singh Neeta. These groups are believed to have exploited local Punjab gangsters and drug smugglers, using them to recruit and manipulate young individuals into carrying out these violent strikes. The role of foreign-based operatives, including Happy Passian, Happy Jat, Gopi Ghanshampuria, Jeewan Fauji, and Gurdev Jassal, was also highlighted, pointing to the transnational nature of the terror networks operating in Punjab. DGP Yadav appealed to the public to remain vigilant against such conspiracies, urging the citizens to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Senior journalist and former Information Commissioner Baijnath Mishra has said that just as Dadhichi donated his bones to protect his kingdom, journalists give their all to guide society. Honouring such journalists is a way of honouring society itself, he said. Mishra made these remarks on Sunday during the announcement of the Jharkhand Journalism Awards 2024 at the Ranchi Press Club. He said that this is the first time since the formation of Jharkhand that the Ranchi Press Club, in collaboration with the RBS Vedic Trust, has decided to organise the Jharkhand Journalism Awards, which is a commendable initiative. Ranchi Press Club president Surendra Soren said that awards would be presented in three categories: Lifetime Achievement Award (Rs. 31,000, shawl, and memento), Best Reporter Award (Rs. 21,000, shawl, and memento), and Best Photography Award (Rs. 21,000, shawl, and memento). Retired IAS officer Ranendra Kumar, a jury member, emphasized that the selection would be carried out with full transparency. RBS Vedic Trust president Nityanand Shukla expressed his happiness at being part of the event to honour journalists. Press Club secretary Amarkant said that nominations for the Jharkhand Journalism Awards can be submitted at the Ranchi Press Club till January 15. Separate applications must be submitted for each category. The application form can be downloaded from the Ranchi Press Club's website or obtained directly from the club. Complete applications, along with necessary documents, should be submitted to the Ranchi Press Club by January 15, 2025. Nityanand Shukla said that a seven-member jury would examine the applications and make the final decision. The jury includes senior journalists Baijnath Mishra and Sonali Das, Ranchi University Vice Chancellor Prof. Ajit Kumar Sinha, retired IAS officer Ranendra Kumar, Ranchi Press Club president Surendra Lal Soren, General Secretary Amarkant, and Trust president Nityanand Shukla. After nearly three decades of providing medical aid to victims of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the city-based Sambhavna Trust Clinic will close down on Tuesday evening due to the government's refusal to reinstate a registration crucial for it to receive funds from outside the country. Speaking of the imminent closure, activist and the trust's consultant, Satinath Sarangi, told media persons in the state capital that the Sambhavna Trust, which runs the clinic, has been funded by small contributions made by generous individuals in over 40 countries. The contributions require the Trust to have a valid Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) registration, which was cancelled after the trust failed to submit an annual report for the year 201718 within the time limit set by the government. Following the failure to file the report, the government also froze the trust's bank accounts, levied a penalty of Rs 18 lakh, and placed a three-year ban on the trust. Sarangi contended that although the delay in submission of the report was caused by a technical glitch in the website of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which is responsible for FCRA clearances, the trust has been seeking reinstatement of the registration since the lapse of the ban in 2023. Sarangi claimed that reinstatement of the trust's FCRA registration has been in balance since February 2023, despite a government policy to address such issues within three months of application. Activists and beneficiaries said that the trust's funds have run dry, and it is left with no option but to shut down the clinic, causing the loss of livelihood for nearly 35 employees and the loss of hope for the scores of gas victims the clinic serves. Arun Kumar Nayak, Nuclear Scientist and Head of the Nuclear Control and Planning Wing, Union Ministry of Atomic Energy, emphasized the critical role of nuclear energy in India's future development during his address at the closing ceremony of the 11th Bhopal Science Fair. Dr. Nayak stated that nuclear energy is essential for transforming India into a developed nation, as energy access will be a key determinant of sustainability for nations in the future. He highlighted that for India to emerge as a leading global economy by 2047, advancements in science and technology are indispensable. With the increasing population, the demand for resources and energy will rise significantly. While renewable energy sources are important, they have limitations, making nuclear energy the most viable solution to meet future energy demands. Dr. Nayak also sought to dispel common misconceptions about nuclear energy, asserting its safety and effectiveness. He encouraged the adoption of domestically manufactured products to strengthen the nation's economy and elaborated on research in radiation, clean energy, and India's scientific achievements. He inspired students to engage in research and innovation, particularly in the nuclear energy sector. Dr. Shiv Kumar Sharma, All-India Organizational Secretary of Vijnana Bharati, also addressed the concluding session. He urged students to adopt a clear vision and develop scientific thinking. Dr. Sharma emphasized the importance of having mentors, likening their role to Krishna's guidance to Arjuna in the Mahabharata. He introduced the acronym "PARTH" to outline a formula for success: Positive Attitude, Aim, River-like Continuity, Time Management, and Hard Work. He motivated students to remain focused, maintain positivity, and work diligently to overcome societal challenges. The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including Dr. Anil Kothari, Director General of the Madhya Pradesh Council of Science & Technology; Dr. Dhirendra Swami, Joint Secretary of Vijnana Bharati; Dr. Amogh Gupta, President of Vijnana Bharati, Central India; and Mr. Sanjay Kaurav, Secretary of Vijnana Bharati, Central India. Dr. Dhirendra Swami presented a comprehensive report summarizing the four-day event. The program was hosted by Dr. Jitendra Agarwal and Dr. Pradeep Singor. A highlight of the fair was an exhibition featuring more than 150 scientific models, showcasing the creativity, innovative thinking, and technical expertise of students. The top projects were recognized with cash prizes, certificates, and copies of the book Bharat Ki Ujjwal Parampara. In the college category, the first prize was awarded to Adarsh Kumar from the Corporate Institute of Science and Technology, Bhopal, for his VLAN Shield project to prevent Wi-Fi hacking. Sathya Sai College, Sehore, secured second prize for their E-car design, while the Corporate Institute of Science and Technology received third prize. The Khanauri border remained on high alert on Monday as the farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered the 35th day of his hunger strike, repeatedly defying Punjab Governments pleas to seek medical treatment. With the Supreme Courts December 31 deadline for his hospitalization approaching, security around the protest site has been intensified. Farmers, apprehensive of a potential eviction operation under the cover of darkness, have also reinforced their presence, determined to protect Dallewal from being forcibly removed. With time running out, tensions at Khanauri remain high. The farmers determination to protect Dallewal and the Governments obligation to comply with judicial directives have created a deadlock. There were also reports that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann may also visit Khanauri to meet the farmer leader. Notably, most of the Cabinet Ministers, including Harpal Singh Cheema, Aman Arora, have already visited Dallewal. Meanwhile, Dallewal has accused the state authorities of preparing to detain him, claiming that bus drivers had been mobilized for the operation. Dallewal claimed that the drivers have refused to participate, signaling solidarity with the farmers. Authorities are planning to detain me, and preparations to take me into custody are underway, including mobilizing bus drivers for the operation. But, they have refused to cooperate, said Dallewal in a video message. Ahead of the Supreme Court hearing scheduled for Tuesday, Dallewal made a heartfelt appeal, stating, We are also a part of India. He urged the Central Government to address the concerns of farmers and reconsider their policies. At the same time, the Punjab Government is also facing mounting pressure from the Supreme Court to ensure Dallewals hospital admission without resorting to force. Punjab Governments repeated efforts to persuade Dallewal to accept medical treatment have, so far, been unsuccessful. A state delegation, led by retired Additional DGP Jaskaran Singh, has made multiple visits to the protest site, urging him to accept medical aid. Despite his deteriorating health, Dallewal remained resolute, refusing to end his hunger strike until the Central Government addresses key farmer demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) on crops and debt relief. Doctors have been conducting biweekly medical checks at the protest site, and while Jaskaran Singh has described Dallewals condition as weak but stable, concerns over his health continue to grow. The Supreme Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the State Governments handling of the situation, warning of potential contempt proceedings if the deadline is not met. Farmers at the Khanauri site have ramped up security, fearing a repeat of the November 26 operation, when police forcibly removed Dallewal from the protest site a night before he was to begin his hunger strike. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has called upon youth from nearby villages to join the protest, urging vigilance against any potential eviction attempt. We are prepared to face any consequences. This is a peaceful protest, and the Government will be held accountable if it resorts to force, Pandher declared. Punjab Government will have to stand with three crore Punjabis. They should not attempt to conduct an (eviction) operation at the Khanauri border by taking the excuse of the court, he said. Pandher indicated that the farmers were prepared for any eventuality. Dallewal Saab has made it clear that he will not back down. Now, it is up to the Centre and the Punjab Government to decide whether they are willing to bear the responsibility for farmers bloodshed, he remarked. Pandher further revealed that he had urged the youth from villages near Patiala to assemble at the Khanauri border by Sunday night, aiming to thwart any police attempts to remove Dallewal under the cover of darkness. Opposition leaders have all along been criticizing the Aam Aadmi Party led Punjab Government for its handling of the crisis. Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in Vidhan Sabha Partap Singh Bajwa on Monday condemned the heavy police deployment around Patiala and accused the government of attempting to intimidate peaceful protesters. Reports of a heavy police presence at Patiala Police Lines have raised serious concernsWhat is the purpose of mobilizing such a large force? Is it an attempt to intimidate or harm peaceful protesters? Let me make this clear if the Punjab Police resorts to force and any harm comes to the farmers, the responsibility will fall directly on Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Such an act would be an unforgivable betrayal of the very people who elected him, he said. Bajwa further criticized Mann's failure to address the issue at the national level, asking, Why hasn't Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann taken the initiative to approach the Prime Minister or the Home Minister to resolve this critical situation? Why is he allowing bureaucrats and police officials to take charge, instead of stepping up as the leader? The farmers' demands, particularly for a legal guarantee on MSP, are not merely state matters; they require national attention. Punjab Government, however, has maintained that it is working towards a peaceful resolution, urging the Central Government to engage with the farmers. Government officials have acknowledged the challenges, stating that they are exploring solutions that comply with the Apex Courts order while avoiding escalation. A senior official acknowledged the governments deep concerns over the potential repercussions of using force, emphasizing that the farmers needed to understand the gravity of the situation. There is a risk of loss of lives. Farmers are stationed to protect Dallewal, and the police might be compelled to take drastic measures, the official said. Meanwhile, AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang has strongly condemned the Central Government for its persistent inaction regarding the demands of farmers protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border. He called for immediate dialogue to address their legitimate concerns, particularly the alarming health of farmer leader Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for over a month. Kang emphasized that the people of Punjab are deeply concerned about Dallewal's deteriorating condition and urged the Central Government to take immediate action. Despite several efforts by the Punjab Chief Minister and the State Government to open communication, the Centre has remained unresponsive, worsening the deadlock, he said. Also referencing the Supreme Court's recent call for dialogue with the farmers, Kang stressed that the Centres silence is exacerbating the farmers' suffering and public distress. He appealed to the Centre to break its silence and address the farmers' issues, which have gone unresolved for too long. The Supreme Courts deadline for Dallewals hospitalization leaves the Punjab Government with limited options. If Dallewal continues to refuse medical intervention, the state could face contempt proceedings or be forced to use police action to comply with the order. Either scenario carries significant risks, both for the government and for the farmers. Vedanta ESL Skill School, in collaboration with SEEDS and sponsored by NABARD, celebrated the success of its inaugural batch of Food & Beverage Service Steward trainees. During the felicitation ceremony, 30 trainees were honored for completing the NSDC-certified program, designed to empower youth with industry-standard skills and employment opportunities. Of the 30 graduates, 25 have already secured placements with prestigious companies such as DHPL Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad, earning annual packages of Rs. 1.9 LPA. The Skill Schools commitment to providing theoretical and practical training, along with soft skills, ensures a minimum 70% placement rate for its trainees. The event was graced by dignitaries including Philmon Bilung, DDM NABARD, and Kunal Daripa, Head CSR, ESL. The ceremony marked a significant step in Vedanta ESLs mission to enhance employability and inspire future aspirants. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Prayagraj on Tuesday to review the preparations for Maha Kumbh, marking his fifth visit to the city this month. During his visit, he will inaugurate the Bio-CNG plant in Naini, a significant project for the region. The chief minister will also inspect the steel bridge constructed parallel to the Ganga Setu, along with Sangam Airavat Ghat and Sangam Nose Ghat. He is expected to spend approximately four hours in Prayagraj, during which he will hold a review meeting at the ICCC auditorium and conduct a ground inspection of various routes. Earlier this month, the chief minister visited Prayagraj on December 7, 12, 13, and 23. On Tuesday, CM Yogi is scheduled to arrive at the DPS Prayagraj helipad at around 11:55 am. From there, he will head directly to the Naini Bio-CNG plant to inaugurate the project. He will then visit Sangam Airavat Ghat and Sangam Nose Ghat for inspections. Subsequently, from 1:20 pm to 2:20 pm, he will review the progress of Maha Kumbh preparations at the ICCC auditorium, set up by the Prayagraj Mela Authority. Following this, he will inspect the steel bridge parallel to the Ganga Setu and conduct a ground survey of various routes before departing for Lucknow from the Police Line helipad. The Bio-CNG plant will produce 21.5 tonnes of bio-CNG and 209 tonnes of organic fertiliser daily. It will utilise 200 tonnes of wet waste generated daily in Prayagraj from households, hotels, restaurants, and temples. This initiative is aimed not only at addressing waste management but also at generating an annual revenue of Rs 53 lakh for the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, and leftover food that were previously discarded will now be transformed into 21,500 kg of bio-CNG and 209 tonnes of organic manure every day. The plant, with a total capacity of 343 tonnes per day, will produce 21.5 tonnes of bio-CNG, 109 tonnes of solid organic manure, and 100 tonnes of liquid organic manure daily. In its first phase, the processing of urban waste with a capacity of 200 tonnes has been completed. Work on utilising an additional 143 tonnes of paddy straw and cow dung for gas production is currently underway. Built on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the plant is located on 12.49 acres of land provided by the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation near Arail Ghat in Jahangirabad, Naini. It is being operated by EverEnviro Resource Management Private Limited under a 25-year agreement with the Municipal Corporation. Following this period, the plants operations will be handed over to the municipal corporation. The plant will consume approximately 1,250 units of electricity daily for its operation. The Bio-CNG plant in Naini, by converting organic waste into energy, will significantly contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing approximately 56,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. This initiative not only diverts waste from landfills but also mitigates greenhouse gas emissions. Built at a cost of Rs 125 crore, the plant will supply Bio-CNG to industrial and retail customers across Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj. The project is expected to generate employment for around 200 people, providing direct employment to 25 personnel and creating indirect job opportunities for over 100 individuals. Additionally, it will contribute to the local economy by fostering economic activities around waste management and renewable energy production. According to Prayagraj Municipal Corporation Commissioner Chandra Mohan Garg, the establishment of this plant will generate revenue for the corporation while managing the disposal of 200 tonnes of wet waste daily. The plant is set to become a milestone in enhancing air quality and advancing sustainable development in the region. Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde's close aide Walmik Karad, wanted in an extortion case linked to the murder of a sarpanch in Beed district, surrendered before the police in Pune on Tuesday. Before turning himself in, Karad posted a video on social media, claiming that he was being linked to the murder for reasons of political vendetta. According to police, Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh was abducted and brutally killed on December 9, allegedly for opposing an extortion bid by some persons who had demanded money from a windmill company in Beed district. Four persons were earlier arrested in the murder case, while Karad was named as a wanted accused in the extortion case. On Tuesday morning, Karad, with his associates, arrived outside the Crime Investigation Department's (CID) office in Pune in a car, and surrendered, police officials said. Before that, he released a video where he said, "I am surrendering before CID officials in Pune in a fake case registered against me in Kej taluka of Beed district. Those who are involved in Santosh Deshmukh's (murder) case should be punished and hanged to death. My name is being taken in the case due to political vendetta." The Opposition had alleged during the winter session of the Maharashtra legislature that Karad was the "mastermind" of the murder, but he was not being arrested. On Saturday, thousands of people participated in a huge protest march in Beed city to demand Karad's arrest. MLAs of the ruling Mahayuti coalition including those of the BJP and Nationalist Congress Party also attended the protest. Opposition parties have accused NCP minister Dhananjay Munde -- who belongs to Beed -- of having close links with Karad, and demanded his resignation to enable an impartial probe. Meanwhile, Vaibhavi Deshmukh, Santosh Deshmukh's daughter, questioned the delay in Karad's arrest. "If the accused is surrendering, what the police were doing till now," she said, talking to reporters at her village. She also demanded that police check call detail records (CDR) of all the accused and find out who they were in touch with. Bajrang Sonawane, the NCP (SP) MP of Beed, said the CID should probe the case in a transparent manner, and if Karad was found to be involved in the murder case (besides extortion), arrest him in that case too. Asked about Karad's claim that he was innocent, Sonawane said, "If it is a bogus case, he should have stated so earlier. Why did he take 20 days?" Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday cautioned against "organised efforts" to portray sage-social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, who advocated "one caste, one religion and one God for people", as a proponent of Sanatana Dharma. He claimed that the Guru had neither been a spokesperson nor a practitioner of the Sanatana Dharma, but a saint who had reconstructed it and proclaimed a Dharma befitting to the new age. Sanatana Dharma is nothing but 'varnasrama dharma' (caste-based social order), which Guru had challenged and overcome, he said, adding that the new age "humanistic dharma" advocated by him stands with time. Trying to fix the Guru in the framework of Sanatana Dharma is a great insult to the saint, Vijayan said, while inaugurating a pilgrimage conference held in Sivagiri, the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangam here. Varnasrama Dharma is synonymous with or an integral part of Sanatana Dharma, he said, adding that Guru's ascetic life was the one which questioned and defied the entire chaturvarnya system. "Attempts to downplay social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as a mere religious leader or as a religious saint must be realised. It should be understood that Guru had no religion and had no caste," the CM said. If someone tries to place Guru himself within the boundaries of caste or religion, there can be no insult to the sage beyond that, he added. Warning that there would be attempts to present the Guru as an advocate of whatever he had fought against, Vijayan urged people to be vigilant against such attempts. "Don't let that happen. Be able to firmly state that such misinterpretations will not be tolerated," he said. Meanwhile, the chief minister's remarks drew sharp reactions from the BJP, which alleged that Vijayan had insulted Sanatana Dharma in the holy land of Sivagiri. The CM also insulted the followers of Sree Narayana Guru through his remarks, it said. "The crux of Vijayan's speech at the Sivagiri conference was that Sanatana Dharma should be hated. His remarks were a continuation of Udayanidhi Stalin's statement that Sanatana Dharma should be eradicated," senior BJP leader V Muraleedharan told reporters here. The former union minister sought to know whether the Left veteran would have the courage to say such things about the Holy Quran. Alleging that the Hindu community in Kerala faced the greatest challenge during Vijayan's rule, he said the Left veteran tried to challenge the faith at Sabarimala and during Thrissur Pooram. Muraleedharan also said that the people of Kerala would reject the Communist propaganda portraying Guru as an enemy of Sanatana Dharma. Manipur, which has been witnessing prolonged ethnic violence between majority Meitei and tribal Kuki communities, accounted for about 77 per cent of the total violence in the entire northeastern region in 2023, according to the latest annual report of the Ministry of Home Affairs. In 2023, Manipur witnessed an increase in violent incidents owing to the prevailing ethnic strife and the resultant increase in the casualties of civilians and security forces personnel as compared to 2022. The state accounted for about 77 per cent of the total violent incidents in Northeastern region in 2023, according to the MHA annual report. Among the total 243 violent incidents occurred in the Northeast, 187 took place in Manipur. The counter-insurgency operations in Manipur resulted in killing of 33 insurgents and arrest of 184 insurgents besides recovery of 49 weapons. Further, 80 cadres of insurgent outfits surrendered with 31 arms. Large-scale ethnic violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur on May 3, 2023. The violence resulted in numerous casualties, injuries, and incidents of arson. Though the issue of violence primarily relates to maintenance of public order, which is a state subject, the central government has been consistently extending its support, as required by the state government. The annual report said the central government took a series of immediate and sustained actions to handle the situation. Immediate action was initiated by engaging with top officials of Manipur, progressively deploying additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces, Army and Assam Rifles columns, deploying helicopters and drones, and implementing a unified command system. During the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah from May 29 to June 1, 2023, he had held more than 15 meetings with government officers, officers of security forces, political leaders and more than 100 members of civil society organisations. Further, as per the directions of the home minister, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai monitored the situation by staying in Manipur from May 25 to June 17, 2023. Intermittent violence continues to rock Manipur, where first bout of ethnic violence between the majority Meiteis and tribal Kukis witnessed in May 2023. So far, over 250 lost their lives in the violence in the state, officials said. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday accused the BJP governments at the Centre and the states of having a mindset against the deprived sections of society who are suffering because of the brunt of 'Manuvaad'. In a post in Hindi on X, Kharge alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah insults Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar in Parliament and the same mindset against the deprived is being repeated in the BJP ruled states. He claimed that in the last two days -- a Dalit youth is murdered in police custody in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas and the tribal women are tied to trees and beaten in Balasore, Odisha. "In Bhiwani, Haryana, a Dalit girl student is forced to commit suicide after being unable to pay her BA exam fees. In Palghar, Maharashtra, a tribal pregnant woman has to travel 100 kilometers in search of ICU and dies." "In Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, three Dalit families are forced to migrate because of caste-based attacks on them and the police remains silent," he claimed. "It is well known that atrocities are being committed against Dalits, tribals, backward and minority communities under the 'anti-constitutional rule' of the Modi government. Those who are poor and deprived are suffering the brunt of Manuvaad," the Congress chief alleged. He said a crime is committed every hour against Dalit-tribal women and children, and according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), this figure has doubled since 2014. "The Congress Party will not allow the constitutional rights of 140 crore Indians to be violated and will continue to oppose the anti-constitutional thinking of the BJP-RSS," Kharge said. A 35-year-old Dalit man Mukesh Longre died on Saturday after being called to Satwas Police Station in Madhya Pradesh for questioning in a complaint submitted against him by a woman on December 26. This triggered protests from his kin, who alleged murder. Separately, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Monday alleged that Dalit man Somnath Suryavanshi was assaulted in a police lock-up in Parbhani, Maharashtra, leading to his death. The Odisha Police arrested three persons on charges of assaulting two women over allegations that they were attem Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on Tuesday lashed out at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, calling him a "pathological liar". Dikshit, who is the Congress' candidate from New Delhi constituency for the upcoming assembly polls, also said he is going to file a criminal and civil defamation case against Chief Minister Atishi and AAP MP Sanjay Singh for alleging that he had received money from the BJP. "A few days ago, the CM said that we are taking money from the BJP. After this press conference, I will file a criminal and civil defamation case against (CM) Atishi and Sanjay Singh. I will ask for Rs 10 crore and out of that money, I will donate Rs five crore to Yamuna cleaning and the remaining half will be donated to clean the polluted air in Delhi," he said. They used to say that they have increased sewage treatment by 1.5 times in Delhi. When the Congress lost the elections, the sewage treatment capacity was at 604 MGD and it remains the same today. The former chief minister lies that he has increased sewage treatment work, Dikshit alleged. The lieutenant governor took a review in 2023 and it was found that the pollution effluent going into Yamuna has doubled in the last seven to eight years, he said. The Congress leader said they have also claimed that they have saved money in construction of flyovers. "The initial estimate of Madhuban to Mukarba Chowk flyover by Sheila Dikshit's government was Rs 422 crore, but we built it at Rs 297 crore. The former government estimated the construction of Mangolpuri to Madhuban Chowk at Rs 423 crore, we built it at Rs 323 crore," Dikshit said, adding that they have given five to seven examples. The preliminary estimate of Madhuban to Mukarba Chowk flyover was made at Rs 422 crore in June 2012. After that the Cabinet decision came and the tendering was done on March 22, 2013 for Rs 280 crore, Dikshit said during the press conference. "That means the money was not saved by Kejriwal's government, the money was saved by Sheila's government. I agree that you can say that the government had saved money, but saying that Kejriwal had saved money is not a lie, then tell me which word can we use for this?" he asked. Similarly, in June 2012, the estimate for Azadpur-Prembari flyover was Rs 247 crore and the amount for tender in 2013 was Rs 182 crore, Dikshit said. "I am sorry that I am using a very strong word for the former chief minister called 'pathological liar'," he said. In education, they claimed that they have done a revolutionary work in 12th pass percentage. They used to say that students are coming to their schools in large numbers, Dikshit said. "When Sheila's government lost in Delhi, there were 16.40 lakh students in Delhi government schools. Today, there are 17 to 18 lakh children. If enrolment had increased at the pace of the Congress government, today there would have been 22 to 23 lakh children, which means there are four to five lakh students less in our government schools," he said. A sign posted on store coolers at Whole Foods on Ocean Avenue in San Francisco reads, For now, were limiting purchases to 3 cartons per customer. Egg prices have spiked 70% amid a nationwide dairy shortage spurred by the outbreak of H5N1 avian flu, commonly known as bird flu. Aidin Vaziri/The Chronicle The cost of eggs in California has jumped nearly 70% in the past month, reaching $8.97 for a dozen. The price hike, highlighted in the U.S. Department of Agricultures December egg markets report, owes largely to a series of highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks that have decimated the states poultry flocks. With California at epicenter of bird flu outbreak, how worried should you be? Gov. Newsom declares state of emergency over bird flu to boost Californias response Advertisement Article continues below this ad In December alone, nine confirmed cases of bird flu across California resulted in the culling of nearly 6 million egg-laying hens. The hardest-hit areas included Merced, Riverside, San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties. The largest losses occurred just before and after the holiday season, when demand for eggs typically peaks. According to USDA data, the December outbreaks caused the deaths of more than 1.7 million birds in Merced County on Dec. 5, and another 1.1 million in Stanislaus County by Dec. 24. The timing of these losses has strained an already tight supply, sending egg prices soaring. As demand spiked during the holiday season, retailers were forced to adjust. Grocery chains, including Whole Foods and Safeway, imposed purchase limits on eggs, citing difficulties in sourcing supply. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Brian Moscogiuri, an expert at supplier Eggs Unlimited, told industry journal Watt Poultry that shortages are particularly acute for cage-free, or California-compliant eggs, which are in high demand due to the states strict animal welfare regulations. The impact of bird flu extends beyond California. The USDA has warned that outbreaks in other states, like Iowa and Ohio, could further strain national egg supplies. With the U.S. egg-laying flock expected to dip below 300 million hens its lowest point since the 2022 bird flu crisis the nations egg production is unlikely to return to normal levels until mid-2025, assuming no additional outbreaks occur. Experts say a full recovery could take 4-6 months, depending on the virus trajectory. However, the long-term effects on egg prices could persist well into the new year, with some predicting that the elevated prices may become a fixture for consumers throughout 2025. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A new Department of Defense (DoD) report has sparked concerns over Chinas rapid military expansion. One expert compared the countrys military buildup to that of a major world power in the 1930s. The report details significant advancements in Chinas arsenal and its pursuit of mind dominance through psychological warfare, raising questions about the balance of power in the global arena and the potential for future conflicts. Get alerts: Expert Voices Concerns About Chinas Military Buildup A retired Army lieutenant colonel and the chief national initiatives officer at the Texas Public Policy Foundation have voiced serious concerns about Chinas military ambitions. He recently expressed his concern during a television appearance, stating that China is engaging in an unprecedented military build-up the world hasnt seen since a similar one in the first half of the 20th century, which sparked World War 2. The expert highlighted the differences between Chinas naval-focused strategy and the land power emphasis of a previous era. He explained that while land power is easier to build up quickly, navies are much more difficult. He asserted that the United States is behind and needs to catch up, modernize its nuclear weapons, and invest in missile defense. Chinas Nuclear Arsenal and Naval Power These comments follow the Pentagons annual report to Congress, which outlines Chinas military and security developments. The report portrays a nation rapidly expanding its military capabilities, particularly in nuclear weapons, naval power, and advanced missile technology. According to the DoD report, China is on track to significantly increase its nuclear arsenal, with projections indicating at least 1,000 warheads by 2030. The expert expressed his concern about these numbers and added that the actual quantity of nuclear warheads may be even higher than projected. The report also reveals that Chinas Peoples Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) has added hundreds of new intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of striking the continental United States. Additionally, China has bolstered its arsenal with hundreds of medium-range ballistic missiles and long-range cruise missiles. China already boasts the largest navy in the world by the number of ships. The DoD report indicates that Chinas navy is expected to grow from its current size to over 400 ships and submarines by 2030. The expert emphasized the disparity in shipbuilding capacity, stating that Chinas capacity is significantly greater than that of the United States. Mind Dominance: Chinas Pursuit of Cognitive Domain Operations Beyond the conventional military advancements, the DoD report sheds light on Chinas efforts to develop Cognitive Domain Operations (CDO), which it describes as the next evolution of psychological warfare. CDO integrates traditional psychological warfare tactics with modern internet technologies, AI, big data, brain science, and neuroscience. The report explains that CDOs goal is to achieve what the Chinese military refers to as mind dominance. This involves using information to influence public opinion and affect change in a nations social system, creating an environment favorable to China and reducing resistance to its military actions. The report suggests that the Chinese military intends to use CDO as an asymmetric capability to deter U.S. or third-party intervention in potential conflicts, shape perceptions, and polarize societies. This approach reflects Chinas broader strategy of leveraging information and technology to achieve its strategic goals. Implications for U.S. Defense Strategy The DoD reports findings have prompted calls for a reassessment of U.S. defense priorities. The reports revelations about Chinas military advancements and its pursuit of mind dominance underscore the evolving nature of warfare and the challenges facing the United States. As China continues to expand its military might and develop new forms of warfare, the U.S. must adapt its defense strategy to address these emerging threats. Derry has been announced as the fitness capital of Northern Ireland, according to a new study. As 2025 approaches, people start to embrace the mantra of new year, new me as they prioritise their health and fitness. Search engine analysis of personal trainer and 718 related keywords by Harlow Leisurezone reveals a growing interest in personal trainers and fitness, with searches revealing a 5.66% increase in Northern Ireland. Derry placed top in Northern Ireland for the area searching with the keyword personal trainer, with a 0.70% rise in searches. The city was the only area in the country to see an increase in searches for the term, with the other three on the list experiencing a significant decrease. Lisburn saw a -4.18% decline in searches for personal trainers and other fitness-related activity, which placed them second on the list. Newry registered a -5.58% decrease in searches, and Belfast recorded the sharpest drop, with searches for personal trainers falling by -9.79%. As Derry is the only area in Northern Ireland seeing an increase in searches for personal trainers and other fitness-related activity, this could explain why Northern Ireland ranks bottom across the United Kingdom, as it has seen the smallest rise in these searches, with an increase of 5.66% by December 23-24 from December 20 - November 2021. England was the nation in the UK that witnessed the sharpest rise in searches for PTs and other fitness-related activity over this period with an increase of 13.19%. Meanwhile, Wales had the next largest percentile increase in these searches with an 8.23% increase over the time period, compared to Scotland's 7.96% increase. However, Wales had a significantly smaller amount of searches regarding this subject, with 22,090 in December 23-24, while Scotland had 34,440 in the same period. Health and Fitness Manager David Marrington, from Harlow Leisurezone, said: The New Year is the perfect time for a fresh start. More people are ready to take control of their health and fitness, whether in the gym, in their home, or in a local park. Whether its setting a goal to run your first 5 km or building strength in the gym, January provides a unique opportunity to reset and focus on self-improvement. As we approach the new year, many people are using this time to reset and commit to a healthier lifestyle. Its important to start with realistic and actionable steps. Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is asking the public to have its say on enhancing community safety and shaping the future of its services. Views are being sought on the five year organisational plan to become more efficient and effective, whilst working in partnership with others, to help ensure that Northern Ireland continues to be a safe place to live and work. NIFRS Deputy Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Paul Harper explains: Seeking your feedback on our draft CRMP is a key point as we outline how we intend to shape the future of fire and rescue provision in Northern Ireland. The plan sets out who we are as a service, the work that we carry out, and the steps that we take to respond effectively to an emergency situation as well as how we try to prevent emergencies happening in the first place. It outlines how we propose to enhance community safety and to effectively manage risk across Northern Ireland. It provides supporting risk data and analysis to demonstrate how we will ensure that the right people, with the right skills, are in the right place, at the right time to help keep both the community and our Firefighters safe. We are committed to providing the most efficient and effective Fire & Rescue Service for the people of Northern Ireland, whilst ensuring we support the needs of all our employees who go above and beyond every day. This consultation will assist us in setting the direction for the next five years and help us remain a strong and resilient service; there for you when you need us most. Its important that our community is part of the approach. We want to hear your views whether you are a member of the public, an NIFRS employee or one of our partners. Your opinion matters to us and we look forward to engaging with you. The closing date for the consultation is January 9. Consultation documentation, summary, FAQs, and consultation response forms are available on Consultations Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (nifrs.org) The head of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has praised his dedicated colleagues, as he learned he has been made an OBE. The honour for Michael Bloomfield comes after 37 years working in the public sector, including appointments on the Health and Social Care Board before his appointment as chief executive of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) in March 2018. He also chaired the NI Confederation for HSC from 2020-24, chaired the NI Cancer Network from 2018-22 and continues to chair the Major Trauma Network. Mr Bloomfield has been made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to Health and Social Care in the Kings New Year Honours. Tribute has been paid to Mr Bloomfields leadership of NIAS, including his work to introduce a third level paramedic degree course in the region, and establishing a full-time peer support function for staff, as well as his involvement with the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS). Mr Bloomfield said in a statement: It is a great honour to receive this award which is a recognition of the commitment of so many people I have worked with, in a range of roles, over many years. The delivery of health and social care requires the contribution of a wide range of teams and collaboration with partner organisations, and I am fortunate to have worked with many dedicated individuals and teams over the years. I would pay particular tribute to my team in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, who provide amazing care in the most challenging circumstances, and who it has been my privilege to lead over the past seven years. NIAS chairwoman Michele Larmour congratulated Mr Bloomfield and said he has committed his whole career to public service. His extensive contributions, from enhancing healthcare delivery to advocating for NIs interests on national platforms, and his exceptional leadership during critical times, set him out as a leader worthy of recognition, she said. His work not only reflects his dedication to healthcare improvement, as evidenced by the transformation of NIAS over very challenging years, but also establishes him as a role model who inspires other leaders within the sector, with whom he works collaboratively for the betterment of patients. A campaigner for victims of terrorism has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the New Year Honours. Eric Brown, 78, was one of the original founders of victims organisation the South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF) and will stand down as its chairman at the end of 2024 after 26 years. He has been recognised for services to the community in Co Fermanagh. Mr Brown said he was first moved to set up SEFF because he believed there was very little recognition given to innocent victims in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. He said: We were getting a peace of sorts, anything was better than what we had before, but here was a community which felt abandoned. Myself and two others had a chat in my house about what we could do. We decided we would get some victims together to have a chat. We got 12 at the start and they sat around in a room and told us their stories. Thats how it started. He added: We struggled in the dark, not knowing about what help was available. Eventually we made an application for funding and opened an office and had one part-time administrator. It all just grew from there. Mr Brown said he felt the time was now right to step aside as chairman. He said: I have no intentions of moving away from the organisation, none whatsoever, I just feel it is time for new blood. It is not my organisation, it is the peoples, the members. Without the volunteers we do not have anything. Mr Brown said when he received news of his MBE, it was like a bolt from the blue. He said: While it is being given to me, it has been earned by our volunteers. I may have had the spark to start it, but at the end of the day it is the people who have delivered. SEFF director Kenny Donaldson said the MBE was a worthy recognition for Mr Brown. He added: Eric has given over 26 years voluntary contribution, first forming SEFF and then being the constant throughout each and every phase of the organisations development since. Eric has represented the organisation at many different events and engagements over the years. Eric has announced his intention to step down as chairman from SEFF this year; this is a special recognition to symbolise his tenure. A still from San Francisco police body-worn camera video footage shows a man in Union Square pointing what appears to be a gun at officers before they opened fire. San Francisco Police Department San Francisco police officers shot and killed a security guard on Dec. 20 because he pointed a gun at them a few hours after striking two pedestrians and a bicyclist with an SUV he was driving on a sidewalk near Union Square, according to police accounts and video released by the department Monday. Video released by police Monday showed that the suspect ignored police commands to raise his hands, then raised what appeared to be a handgun and pointed it at them before they opened fire. Police later said a handgun containing 14 unfired .357 caliber cartridges was recovered from the scene, along with one fired .357 caliber casing. San Francisco police released new video on Monday that showed officers shot and killed a security guard after he allegedly struck pedestrians and a bicyclist near Union Square. Provided by San Francisco Police Department Videos also showed a black SUV speeding down a sidewalk, hitting several pedestrians, and then continuing around a corner and striking a bicyclist in the street, knocking him off his bike. The cyclist fled on foot and as stunned onlookers watched, the driver exited the SUV that had lights flashing like an emergency vehicle, unsuccessfully tried to put the bike in the back, took the cyclists bag and drove off. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During a virtual town hall meeting Monday afternoon, Assistant Police Chief David Lazar and the departments command staff explained the chronology of the shooting, which occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Dec. 20 at Grant and Post streets, near the Dior, Harry Winston and Cartier stores. According to Mark Im, acting commander for the police departments risk management division, the shooting took place while officers were trying to arrest Peter Francis Hodge Jr., 50. Hodge was suspected of using his car to ram two pedestrians and a cyclist about seven hours before the fatal shooting. Police and Hodges family members previously identified him as a Dior security guard. A still from a San Francisco Police Department video shows a man suspected of hit-and-runs in Union Square shortly before officers fatally shot him. Courtesy of San Francisco police Multiple eyewitnesses called 911 to summon police to Sutter and Kearny streets around 6:30 p.m. Dec. 19 after seeing a black sport utility vehicle chasing a person riding an electric bicycle, Im said. Surveillance footage of the incident provided by police showed the SUV traveling down the sidewalk behind the e-bike, hitting pedestrians exiting a building and sending one flying into the roadway. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Somebody in an SUV was driving rapidly on the sidewalk, the eyewitness told 911 dispatchers in an audio recording released by police Monday afternoon. One of the pedestrian victims also called 911, telling dispatchers in audio recordings, Me and my friend just got hit by a car exiting Chipotle. They drove through the sidewalk. They ran over her and then ran over the whole sidewalk. According to Im, Hodges SUV chased the e-bike rider down the sidewalk, striking the two pedestrians before hitting the person on the e-bike, sending them flying. The cyclist fled on foot into a nearby parking garage. Im said Hodge then unsuccessfully tried to put the e-bike into his SUV trunk before taking the cyclists bag and fleeing the scene. Surveillance footage showed that the SUV had flashing lights similar to those used by emergency vehicles. Police determined that the man who carried out the assault was armed and was wearing a uniform and gun belt. Police later determined that the cars license plate number, which police obtained from eyewitnesses, did not match the car, indicating it may have been switched to conceal Hodges identity, Im said. Police later obtained security footage of a man who resembled Hodge swapping the plates, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police body camera footage showed officers discussing detailed plans to take Hodge into custody. Bullet holes in glass windows of the San Francisco Dior store in Union Square. A man believed to have been a security guard at the store was shot and killed by police on Dec. 20. Police sought him in connection with an alleged assault a day earlier. Michael Barba/The Chronicle At 1:30 a.m. Dec. 20, police found the SUV in Union Square, Im said. While officers were inspecting the SUV for damage, an armed Hodge approached and asked the officers what they were doing, Im said. Video footage showed multiple officers telling Hodge multiple times to put his hands up, with one officer commanding him, We are going to use force against you just put your hands up, to which Hodge can be heard saying, For what? What are you worried about? In the grainy body-worn camera video footage, Hodge appears to walk away from the officers with his hand on his waistband. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Im, Hodge took steps away from the officers, reached for his waistband, pivoted toward the officers and took a shooting stance with two hands on his handgun while pointing at officers in the street. Police fired a BolaWrap restraint device at Hodge, which was not effective, and also fired a bean bag at him. In body-worn video footage, multiple officers said, Hes reaching, hes reaching before firing their weapons. Slow-motion footage released by police showed Hodge to reach for his waistband and pull out what appeared to be a gun. Officers unleashed a barrage of gunfire, and Hodge fell to the ground. Back up, hes out, an officer said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police said they recovered a Glock 31 pistol filled with 14 unfired .357 caliber cartridges at the scene, as well as one fired .357 caliber cartridge casing, 21 fired .223 caliber cartridge casings, eight fired .40 caliber casings, two beanbag projectiles and casings, and one BolaWrap cord and prong. Police did not say whether Hodge had fired his weapon. Capt. Dean Hall called the shooting an isolated incident and said he had requested the San Francisco Department of Public Health to offer counseling to people in the neighborhood. Hall said police had not identified the rider of the e-bike but were hoping to locate him. Police previously said the pedestrians struck by Hodges SUV while leaving Chipotle were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries following the crash. Their conditions Monday were unavailable. In an audio recording released Monday, one of the victims told a dispatcher that she and her friend were visiting the city. Huawei sanctions 2.0 in the cards with Trump back in office Donald Trump's return to the US presidency, coupled with his appointment of hawkish cabinet members focused on China, signals the likelihood of escalated trade and technology sanctions against Chinese firms. Huawei, a key target during Trump's first term, is expected to face renewed pressure under his administration. During Trump's first term, the US imposed sweeping sanctions on Huawei, blocking access to advanced semiconductor products and critical components while pressuring allies to exclude Huawei from their telecom infrastructure. These measures severely crippled Huawei's global smartphone business and confined its telecom market primarily to China. Under the Biden Administration, sanctions against Huawei softened slightly, particularly due to inconsistent enforcement among European allies. However, most US-imposed restrictions on China persisted. For example, only seven of the European Union's 27 member states have fully implemented the "Cybersecurity of 5G networks: EU Toolbox of Risk Mitigating Measures," aimed at curbing Chinese involvement in 5G infrastructure. Germany, the EU's economic powerhouse, permitted limited Huawei involvement, mandating only the removal of select management systems. This leniency has drawn criticism from the US and several other EU member states, reflecting divisions within the bloc on handling Huawei. Huawei bounces back: R&D drives resilience Despite stringent US sanctions, Huawei has displayed resilience, recovering from its lowest points and making a strong comeback in recent years. In telecom equipment, Huawei has reinforced its position as China's top supplier and expanded its market share in regions outside US-aligned nations, maintaining its global leadership. The company also remains at the forefront of 5G base station power amplifier technology. In the smartphone market, Huawei overcame the absence of Google Mobile Services (GMS) by launching the Mate 60 Pro in 2023, featuring a self-developed 7nm process chip for 5G. In 2024, it debuted the Mate XT, the world's first mass-produced foldable smartphone, solidifying its status as a leading smartphone brand in China. Huawei has diversified into the smart vehicle sector, leveraging its ICT expertise to deliver end-to-end solutions, including chips, hardware, software, and cloud services. The company is also scaling its investments in artificial intelligence (AI), public cloud, quantum computing, and other cutting-edge fields. Trump's cabinet signals hardline China policies Huawei's expansion into emerging sectors could place it back in the crosshairs of the new US administration. Key appointments in Trump's cabinet point to a likely resurgence of stringent sanctions targeting the Chinese tech giant. Marco Rubio, Trump's pick for Secretary of State, is a staunch Huawei critic, accusing the company of seeking global dominance. Rubio spearheaded the "Clean Network" initiative, which aimed to exclude Chinese tech products from critical digital infrastructure. Mike Waltz, the incoming National Security Advisor, has emphasized redirecting US focus from conflicts in Europe and the Middle East to addressing the strategic challenge posed by China. Howard Lutnick, nominated for Commerce Secretary, supports high tariffs on Chinese imports and has criticized China's role in the fentanyl crisis impacting the US. Trump's second term is expected to escalate sanctions on Huawei and other Chinese tech firms. Measures could include stricter export controls on semiconductor manufacturing equipment, closing technology transfer loopholes, and raising tariffs to pressure allies into isolating Huawei and other Chinese enterprises. China strikes back: key minerals as strategic leverage China has not remained passive in the face of US sanctions. It has imposed countermeasures, including restricting exports of critical mineral raw materials and intensifying scrutiny of US companies operating in China. Recently, China launched an antitrust investigation into Nvidia, the leading AI chipmaker. On December 4, China banned the export of gallium, a key material for manufacturing radio frequency components, to the US. This move is expected to significantly impact the global 5G equipment market. GaN, derived from combining gallium and nitrogen, offers superior performance and reduced weight in 5G RF power amplifiers. As a major global supplier of gallium, China holds a strategic advantage. Huawei's proficiency in GaN technology strengthens its position in the 5G market. Despite US restrictions on advanced chip technology, much of the RF power amplifier production remains in China, limiting Washington's ability to curb Huawei's progress. Huawei remains a central figure in the US-China tech standoff, often used as leverage in bilateral negotiations. Unlike its vulnerable position during Trump's first term, Huawei has since achieved significant self-sufficiency in critical technologies. The company has heavily invested in advanced semiconductor processes, mastered key GaN techniques, and established a domestic supply chain to reduce foreign reliance and reshape the global tech landscape. AGI Technology unveils dynamic storage solutions at CES 2025 AGI Technology, a leading provider of storage solutions, welcomes you to CES 2025. From January 7 to January 10, join us at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, Level 2 Meeting Rooms, Bellini 2001B, to discover a variety of products tailored to meet the diverse needs of creators and professionals. Event Details Date: January 710, 2025 Time: 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Location: The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, Level 2 Meeting Rooms Room: Bellini 2001B Highlighting AGI's Advanced Storage Solutions Supreme Pro TF138 2TB microSD Card The Supreme Pro TF138 is the world's first 2TB microSD card, built to handle demanding applications. Ideal for professional videographers, gamers, and mobile users, it supports extended video recording, seamless file management, and expanded storage capacity. Paired with its Type-C card reader, the TF138 delivers swift data transfers of up to 170/160 MB/s, ensuring reliable performance across various uses. CF Express Type B Card AGI's CF Express Type B Card offers a perfect balance of speed and capacity for high-resolution workflows. Available in 256GB and 512GB models, it delivers sequential read speeds of up to 1,700 MB/s and write speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s, making it an excellent choice for 4K and 8K video production. This card offers dependable storage for professionals who require efficiency and precision in their work. EDM38 Magnetic Portable SSD The EDM38 Magnetic Portable SSD redefines portability with its practical magnetic attachment, enabling easy and secure storage on the go. With transfer speeds of up to 2,050/1,800 MB/s and available in 1TB or 2TB capacities, it supports ProRes 4K video recording. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android, it provides a versatile solution for busy professionals. AGI Technology will also be showcasing a range of new accessories at CES 2025, designed to complement its core storage lineup. Attendees are encouraged to visit Bellini 2001B to explore these solutions and connect with AGI's expert team. Dynamic Solutions with AGI Innovations at CES 2025. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. Country United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe 5th November The seaside town of Blackrock is officially Ireland's Tidiest Small Town, having been declared the winner at this year's SuperValu TidyTowns award ceremony in Croke Park. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, declared Blackrock the overall winner in the Tidiest Small Town category of this year's competition, in front of over 600 TidyTowns volunteers, with many more watching the event online in a live stream. Blackrock picked up a total of 385 marks out of a maximum 550 marks, up from 374 marks last year. In the Adjudication Report for Blackrock, the adjudicators said that: The overall appearance of Blackrock is impressive with a nicely presented built environment and a well-managed natural environment catering for a wide range of activities whilst protecting and promoting the natural environment and its biodiversity. **** In November the Democrat reported that there were fears for the future of around 12 jobs in Dundalk, with reports that the Pearse Lyons Brewery at the Brewery Business Park is to close. The Democrat reported that Alltech, the parent company of the Pearse Lyons Brewery, is planning to discontinue its Irish brewing operations and close its Dundalk plant, which would result in the loss of around 12 jobs. The brewery, which brews the Foxes Rock range of Irish Craft Beers among others, was was originally set up by the late Dr Pearse Lyons in 1992. Originally from Dundalk, Dr Lyons emigrated to the US, where he set up animal nutrition company Alltech in the 1980s. He also started a brewery and distillery in Kentucky in 1999. 12th November Pieta, the suicide and self-harm prevention charity, launched a new support service at the Redeemer Family Resource Centre in Dundalk. This service will provide free, professional counselling to individuals who are self-harming, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or grieving the loss of someone to suicide. This expansion of services by Pieta in Louth is a critical step in their mission to provide accessible, in-person support to those in crisis in Dundalk and the surrounding area. **** 19th November There was a spate of manhole cover thefts across north Louth, leading to fears for public safety, and prompted calls for safety measures to be taken, and public awareness of the issue to be raised. The problem was raised at the Dundalk Municipal District November meeting by Dundalk-Carlingford's Cllr Antoin Watters, who told the meeting that a number of people in the area had contacted him about manhole covers going missing. Cllr Watters said that he understands that 25 to 30 manhole covers have gone missing from the Shelagh and Hackballscross areas, and the whole way out to Ravensdale, due to theft. Cllr Waters added that it was an issue that had happened previously, and that on this occasion a man nearly fell into a manhole in Ravensdale as a result. The Sinn Fein councillor went on to say that those stealing the manhole covers are obviously going to a scrap merchants or something similar and getting money for them. **** Louth County Council announced the appointment of David Conway as its new Chief Executive. A council spokesperson said: David brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in both public and private sectors, making him an excellent choice to lead the council in its mission to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Louth. David Conway has over 20 years experience in leadership roles, including his most recent position as CEO of Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC (a special purpose vehicle of Limerick City & County Council), where he successfully led the development of key strategic sites in Limerick with a capitalised value of 1 billion for urban renewal and economic development. 26th November Concerns that Uisce Eireann, formerly known as Irish Water, has the capacity for just 1,200 more connections in Louth, was one of the main topics for discussion at the Louth County Council November meeting, held at the County Hall in Dundalk. The matter was first raised by Cllr Maeve Yore, who asked if there was a plan in place for infrastructure, with all the new planning permissions being granted in the county. The introduction of water rates in Northern Ireland could be the key to addressing crumbling waste water infrastructure and the impact on waterways, it has been suggested. It comes as the Stormont Executive works to halt an environmental crisis at Lough Neagh where noxious blooms of blue-green algae have covered the surface of the water across the past two summers. The lough is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the UK and Ireland, supplies 40% of Northern Irelands drinking water and sustains a major eel-fishing industry. But it is facing a perfect storm of a crisis caused by pollution, nutrients, climate change and invasive species, according to Gerry Darby, manager of the Lough Neagh Partnership. He praised the approach and actions taken so far by Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir but warned of wider problems that need a whole-of-Executive approach. In an interview with the PA news agency, Mr Darby said the Lough Neagh Action Plan, and particularly the setting up of a stakeholder forum led by Mr Muir, was very positive and a first for a minister. He said 10 of the actions have already been implemented, including water inspectors and looking to the private sector for innovation, but it will take decades to start to see improvement. Is the nutrient level going to come down immediately, no its not, is the level of phosphorus going to come down, probably not, but at least you can now begin to look at setting targets, Mr Darby said. Its important to remember its not just farmers, there are a lot of nutrients coming in off the waste management processing units within NI Water and septic tanks were all contributing to it and other factors such as topography, there is only one river out of the lough, there is not great flow to flush it out. There is also climate change as well as invasive species in there. It all came together to create a perfect storm and at least the minister has engaged with many organisations to try and find solutions. It will be a long-term solution, nobody has ever suggested that the reduction of nutrients in Lough Neagh is going to happen overnight, it is estimated that it will take somewhere between 10 to 20 years before were beginning to see change. However Mr Darby said part of the problem is that people assume the blue-green algae is the only problem in the lough, pointing out the absence of a navigation authority as well as the waste water system which was described by the head of NI Water as being at breaking point. He said addressing the waste water system will require the hard choice between trying to secure more money from the London Government, rejigging the already strained Stormont budget or considering charging water rates. While non-domestic water charges already apply in Northern Ireland, there has been strong political opposition to introducing domestic water charges. The other elephant in the room is the money needed for infrastructure for waste water management. This year the budget of NI Water for capital investment has been cut in half. That is a big, serious issue that politicians need to find an answer to, Mr Darby said. There are three choices you ask Westminster to cough up more, Stormont reprioritises budgets, or else the big controversial one is that you introduce water rates, which is pretty standard in the rest of the UK. I couldnt comment on that personally but I think it is something that needs to be given serious consideration to in the context of the issues also facing Belfast Lough. The problem of course is that it is political dynamite. A status yellow rain warning is in place for Cork and Kerry and Met Eireann has predicted a drop in temperature as the country celebrates the new year. The forecaster has warned that 2025 will bring a cold snap, with temperatures expected to plunge as low as -4C by Thursday. Cork and Kerry will remain under a status yellow rain warning, which will continue until 6am on Wednesday. Persistent rain is expected to cause localised flooding and hazardous travelling conditions. On New Years Day, the rain is expected to gradually clear to the south-east. The forecaster said that brighter conditions and scattered showers will follow from the north-west for the afternoon. Met Eireann meteorologist Mark Bowe said: The low moving over on Tuesday will bring significant winds to the north-west but rain will be widespread and rather heavy at times too which could lead to spot flooding. The forecaster went on to explain that the weather on Wednesday will prove to be a lot more significant with more rain and very strong and blustery winds for all areas. Mr Bowe continued: We are currently tracking the development of the low pressure system expected for Wednesday with potentially some very impactful winds across western and southern areas. Deputy head of forecasting, Liz Coleman, said: It will be a wet and windy night in the south-west and south for the New Years Eve festivities, especially in those counties where we have warnings in place, with persistent rain and some flurries of sleet or snow possible. So plan ahead if you are going to be out and about celebrating. It will be clearer further north with scattered showers. The rain will gradually clear to the south-east on New Years Day, with brighter conditions and scattered showers following from the north-west through the afternoon. Fresh to strong south-west winds will gradually ease and veer northerly, so that will introduce much colder conditions from Wednesday evening onwards. Quite a change for Thursday and Friday, feeling much more like winter with bright, cold and crisp days and a few wintry showers. Very cold at night with widespread frost and some icy patches so do take care when out and about. Police arrived to find an injured juvenile male on the scene, and transported him in an ambulance to the John Muir Medical Center, where he later died. Getty Images The 15-year-old boy killed in a crash in Walnut Creek Saturday has been identified as Gerardo Rosales Murillo of San Jose. Murillo was reportedly in the front passenger seat of the vehicle when it crashed just before 2:36 a.m. on the 1600 block of Newell Avenue under the Highway 680 overpass, according to Walnut Creek Police. He was apparently the only one of four occupants injured. Two of them fled on foot with the driver before authorities arrived. The Contra Costa County Coroner's Office released his name Tuesday, which was reported by several media outlets. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Police said Monday they arrested the juvenile driver in the hit-and run incident. Emergency responders arrived at the accident scene where they found Murrillo injured. He was transported by ambulance to the John Muir Medical Center, where he later died, police said. The suspected driver, a 16-year-old male, was found in San Jose and arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run, police said. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact the Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844. Advertisement Article continues below this ad State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code A few weeks back, I posted on my Facebook wall and I think even on my Twitter, asking people if I can call myself a professional makeup artist since I got several certificates for attending short courses on makeup. I didnt get a reply from makeup artist or people from makeup school or makeup artist practitioners I know who reads my feeds but I did get a reply from a blogger friend who is a graphic artist and a movie buff, he said might as well call my self an amateur makeup artist. Makes me also wonder where do graphic artist gets their title as one? Is there an organization or licensing group for such profession in the country and how do I get it in case I want to. In my case I am exploring my option to get a legitimate title / license as makeup artist and not just because I got a few certificate courses and call myself one. Anyway, to cut the long story short. Yesterday, I had a casual meeting with the Tony Galvez, who is one of the most respected people in the Hair and Beauty Industry. He owns Tony Galvez International School of Cosmetology, the only cosmetology school in the Philipines accredited and acknowledge in the international community giving his students the edge to get the license to practice hair, makeup, stylist and nail technician and living up to the title. Mr. Tony Galvez and me at his building in Quezon City. I had a hair makeover at Tony Galvez salon Mr. Galvez along with the Technological Vocational Schools Association of the Philippines- Quezon City advoctes the licensing of cosmetology courses in the country to raise the bar and quality of the practice and the technical and vocational (tech-voc) education in the Philippines in general. In a letter submitted to President Noynoy Aquino, Galvez reiterated that : by making Technical and Vocational Education a board course, which will convert graduates to profession of dignity and public recognition. Morever, a license to validate and accredit the competencis of tech-voc course will make it comparable and acceptable to foreign market. Graduates will get equal opportunity, job security, professional status and recognition in our society that a professionals of four year higher education programs enjoy. Government can look at these future professionals as revenue-generating individuals as they are potential tax-payers. At the moment, the proposal is now being studied at the Professional Regulatory Commission after being read and endorsed by President Aquino last April 2o12. Lets hope that something good will come through. Kudos to Mr. Galvez and TevSaPhil-QC! Btw, in first world countries, like US and UK you would need a license to be called a makeup artist/ stylist. It is only here in the Philippines that everyone claims they are even if they are not and theres nobody to police these people to keep on giving false claims. Makeup Course Outline How about you, what do you think of this proposal? Stay gorgeous everyone! Plan your travels now and save money and time. Here is the Palace official release of the list of holidays for 2015. President Benigno S. Aquino III has issued a proclamation declaring all national holidays to be observed for the year 2015. Malacanang released the copy of Proclamation No. 831, which was signed by the President on July 17. The proclamation listed 18 holidays, with 8 long weekends on 2015. Regular Holidays: New Years Day January 1 (Thursday) Maundy Thursday April 2 Good Friday April 3 Araw ng Kagitingan April 9 (Thursday) Labor Day May 1 (Friday) Independence Day June 12 (Friday) National Heroes Day August 31 (last Monday of August) Bonifacio Day November 30 (Monday) Christmas Day December 25 (Friday) Rizal Day December 30 (Wednesday) Special (Non-Working) Days: Chinese New Year February 19 (Thursday) Black Saturday April 4 Ninoy Aquino Day August 21 (Friday) All Saints Day November 1 (Sunday) Additional Special Non-Working Days: January 2 (Friday) December 24 (Thursday) December 31 (Thursday) Special Holiday (for all schools): EDSA Revolution Anniversary February 25 (Wednesday) List of Long Weekends of 2015 April 2 (Thursday) April 5,2015 (Sunday) April 9 (Thursday) April 12, 2015 (Sunday) altho April 10 is a Friday and not declared Holiday you can get a leave or something haha! May 1 (Friday) to June 2,2015 (Sunday) June 12 (Friday) to June 14,2015 (Sunday) August 29 (Saturday) August 31,2015 (Monday) August 21 (Friday) August 23,2015 (Sunday) November 28 (Saturday) Novemver 30, 2015 (Monday) December 24 (Thursday) December 27, 2015 (Sunday) December 30 (Wednesday) January 4, 2016 (Sunday) The list does not include other specially declared Holidays yet such as Ramadan, End of Ramadan and even Iglesia ni Kristo anniversary of sorts. So! Happy planning your getaways! Democratizing air travel was one of the most ambitious dreams Tony Fernandez, AirAsia CEO had when he bought the already bankrupt airline a few years back. I never knew about this story until I saw the first episode of the AirAsia Red Talks with Daphne web series shown in advance to invited media as part of its launch held at the Venice Grand Canal Cineplex in Taguig. The #AirAsiaRedTalks is a 6 part web series that shows us the world of AirAsia from the inside. The first episode, which we saw in advance and will premiere on AirAsia Facebook page on March 25 at 7pm entitled Destination: Dream (The Man with the Red Cap) will talk about the man himself AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernadez. Other episodes to watch out for are: Destination: Fly stories about AirAsia Cabin Crews on April 8, 2017 Destination: a story about the Silversmiths of Arkomjogja on April 22, 2017 Destination: Unity is a story about the ASEAN region Destination: Harmony which is about the Environmental Protection of Businesses Destination: Freedom which is about travelers on June 3, 2017. All episodes will be live every 7 PM Philippine Standard Time on the dates mentioned above. The AirAsia Red Talks with Daphne web series is produced by Philippines AirAsia Inc. taking viewers to different places and talking about flying, traveling, helping, and inspiring communities. There will be #AirAsiaRedTalks online contests to be hosted on some blogs I know like Anagon and Nognoginthecity so watch out for it. The prize will be awesome as it will be a roundtrip airfare to Yogyokarta Indonesia with free hotel accommodation at Hyatt Regency Yogyokarta, and a free walking tour with a guide to someplace there (I forgot!) wait for these blogs announcements. Red Talks with Daphne was made possible by AirAsia Foundation, thr AA Loyalty program, Hyatt Regency Yogyokarta, Flower Island Resort Palawan, amd Jewelmer. By the way if you have not gotten hold of the AirAsia BIG Loyalty program better do so. With over 100 partners worldwide you could win free trips and hotel accommodations through your BIG points. Every month during the members exclusive Final Call Sale, flights can be redeemed from only 500 points! Visit AirAsia Philippines Facebook page starting March 25, 2017 to catch the first episode of AirAsia Red Talks with Daphne. Stay gorgeous everyone! If you are looking for a different kind of adventure or activities to do with friends, family and relatives around Metro Manila , you may want to take a look at Climb Central Manila and try wall climbing! I was there this weekend thanks to Travelbook.ph who gave me places to check out and hang out at the metropolis. I have tried wall climbing but I dont do it ever so often . It was good to know that Climbing Central.Manila caters to all kinds of climbers from beginners to advanced and practice for a great outdoor rock climbing adventure! What I think of it? The staff are very accommodating and friendly. The facility is spacious and homey. The people who go there are friendly and theres a community spirit going. Lockers are free to use just bring your own lock or rent one for Php50 only. The walls have different level of difficulty for you to climb, theres a practice wall and the advanced kind of wall with pegs and carabiners hanging on the ceiling . You can sit anywhere bring water bottle anywhere the mat area . Food is only allowed at the lounge area. You can stay in the facility the whole day or come in and do some climb for an hour and leave and then go back a few hours later. They have unlimited climb for the whole day. It is best to come with a partner because he/she will be your climbing partner. One will be on the ground to assist you aka belayers and the other one is the climber going up the wall. There are three kinds of climbing you can do, the solo belay where you can climb on your own and just use the machine. Then the one with your partner / belayer. And the bouldering, a no ropes 2 meters high wall climbing (dont worry theres crash pads). I can talk so much more about Climb Central and how it looks like but this vlog below can give you the exact look and feel of the area please watch! If you would like to try out wall climbing , visit Climb Central Manila at Greenfield District in Mandaluyong City. Or to find an adventure or activity to do in Metro Manila or around the country visit Travelbook.ph. Stay gorgeous everyone! The author and her brother stand with former President Jimmy Carter at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Ga., in 1985. Their father is in the background. Provided by Rebecca Black I was 10 in 1985 when my father drove us 30 miles from Albany, Ga., to Plains so we could meet Jimmy Carter for the first time at Maranatha Baptist Church. In the photo from that day, the sun is bright and were all squinting. My little brother stands next to me, pudgy in his navy blazer. Carter smiles his wide smile; his hands grip our shoulders, holding onto us like were the future, his children as much as anyones. I felt vaguely anointed that day. I wasnt old enough to understand politics, but I understood this: I was standing next to a former president of the United States whod returned to his rural home near my small-town home in Albany to live and teach Sunday school. Moreover, he seemed genuinely happy to have his photo taken with us. It must have been after this indelible moment, or after my father printed the photo and placed it in a frame next to all the family photos, that I started thinking of the former president as my famous great-uncle. We werent at all related to the Carters. But in the South, the highest honor you can bestow is thinking of someone as family. Carter to me was exactly that: familiar and venerated, avuncular and deified. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wed driven to Maranatha because my father wanted us to meet his hero. South Georgia isnt exactly minting rural, white progressive male visionaries on the world stage like Jimmy Carter. I dont think its even minting small town idealists like my dad, an Atticus Finch type who built his legal career combating the myriad social ills of our neck of the woods: endemic poverty, systemic racial and class and gender discrimination, bogus electoral practices. No one wants their heroes to die, especially when theyre family, real or imaginary. Although weve all know that Carter would die, his death this week is hard to take. My dad had a stroke in 2001 at age 52, and has been paralyzed ever since. His legal career abruptly ended the day of his stroke. There was a time when you could have thought of both my dad and Carter as failures overly moral men who ignored public opinion in pursuit of what they thought was right. Carter tried to impose his morality on an entire nation, and it rejected him. For my dad, an ordinary citizen, no sacrifice of social capital, money or his own health was too great in the pursuit of social justice. During a major flood in 1994, he ran a shelter at the middle school for three weeks, declining to work, eat, or sleep properly. In the 80s, when AIDS first hit my hometown, and HIV positive men were becoming homeless, my dad persuaded the local Salvation Army to create a safe shelter for these men. He seemed to think that our communitys entire well-being depended on whether he could just get one more workers compensation case settled for one more family so one more mom could afford to buy groceries. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Back in October, when I was thinking that Jimmy Carter was going to make it to age 100, I called my dad at his assisted living place in Atlanta to ask what he remembered about the former president. I was surprised to hear him say that President Carter had noticed his local legal work in the 80s and 90s. Once, he said, he was at a hearing in Americus, Ga., to challenge the wholesale firing of a group of near-retirement educators after a school system budget had been mismanaged. Give em hell, Gene, a voice said. My dad turned around, and Jimmy Carter was standing behind him, gripping his shoulder in encouragement. I didnt know he knew my name, my father said, proudly. Carters values were our shared values, and though Carter was not our uncle, he and my father were spiritual family. They were men who showed their fallibility, their vulnerable side. Their largest shared value, aside from a notable workaholism, was stewardship, whether it was the environmental stewardship of local farmland, the planet, or the stewardship of the humanity of anyone who crossed their path. Jimmy Carter and my dad took their privilege and planted it deep down in the red clay of south Georgia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Time, of course, clarifies what it means to fail or to succeed. Carter is the first president better known for his post-presidency than his time in office. No matter what you thought of him as president, it is hard to look at all hes accomplished in the ensuing 43 years and not marvel at his legacy. When the news of his death was announced, I ended up on Youtube watching his infamous Crisis of Confidence speech. Its gobsmacking to watch a sitting president speak to the American people with such honesty: reading out a laundry list of complaints people have about him, showing his sensitive side like a dog rolling over and showing his stomach. My father was like that, too, confident enough that hed be loved to go ahead and admit his own faults. As we know, this doesnt always work out. People mistake this type of self-effacing honesty for low self-esteem. But its the opposite, really, the supreme evocation of self-assurance to reveal your faults and give people the chance to accept you. Back in 2018, I heard that Carter had toned down his teaching calendar, that the chance to hear him speak might soon end. I knew I needed to see him in person again, to say goodbye, and I wanted my brother next to me again. I left my boys with my husband and flew in from California to return to Maranatha Baptist Church. My sister-in-law joined us. It was the week after the synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh and Carters secret service protocols had intensified. The three of us woke at 4 a.m. in a hotel room in Americus, then had to wait for hours inside our rental car in the pecan grove outside the church. Around 8 a.m., we were allowed to get out of our cars and Jimmys niece came out to manage the crowd. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Dont touch President or Mrs. Carter, please. Please dont get into conversation with him, she said in a polite, practiced drawl. For heavens sake, dont try to hand him homemade cookies or a book youve written or anything. I realized I wanted to do all of these things, and was glad for the reminder not to make a fool of myself or worse, in front of the Secret Service agents. When we took our photo with President and Rosalynn Carter after the service, I knew Carter would no longer grip my shoulders; it was up to me now to decide what values to pass along to my sons. Carters presidency and post-presidency are the whole of my almost 50 years here on this planet. I wont forget that final image of him being wheeled into Mrs. Carters memorial service in Atlanta last year. Even with all the warning, it feels strange that he has left us. My father and Jimmy Carter were cut from the same cloth, well-educated Southern white men who went as far as they could toward the light of peacemaking. I already miss how Jimmy Carter moved through the world. And I miss the man my father was when he was able to stand up before a jury and use his voice to speak truth to power. All thats left now is to take Jimmy Carters and my dads example and translate it into action in our own lives. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies My boys look puzzled when I talk about trying to do what you think is just, even when you arent sure how it will be received. I try again: What matters is effort, not results. Step into your day and put your all into whatever work is needed. During 2005, more than a million people attended events programmed as part of Cork 2005: European Capital of Culture. Thats no mean feat for a city on the edge of Europe with a population at the time of around 120,000. Its a good thing the million attendees didnt all show up at once. We had more projects than the citys conventional infrastructure could hold. We had to use spaces in a new way. An ESB sub-station became a really good exhibition space. So did Fitzgerald Park, the Farm Gate, a car park and myriad other places in the city. Stuff you might never otherwise get to see started happening in places you might not otherwise get to. People came to performances, exhibitions, readings, concerts, workshops and cultural happenings of every sort, in locations from the River Lee itself, to the Glucksman (the opening of which formed part of the year), to a Marquee in the showgrounds (thats been coming back since), to the Opera House, to semi-derelict buildings. The streets became really important. Thats where we opened the year, with a carnival on the city streets when 100,000 people showed up to see the Capital of Culture year start under miraculous blue skies. Street performers from all over Europe took the city centre over: Antarctic explorers and giant spiders bumped into each other on Oliver Plunkett Street while dragons wound down Pana. Bob Geldofs fireworks company lit up the night - Collins Barracks had to be used to store all the gunpowder. Vatican Radio reported on the excitement. RTE broadcast a three-hour live TV special from the streets of Cork. On New Years Eve, the country watched as Cork hurling captain Sean Og O hAilpin launched a flaming sliotar into the waters of the Lee and the Cork crowd roared. But all of this razzmatazz was far removed from the processes involved in the years gestation. And that gestation took an awful lot longer than a year. Cork 2005 started early in the decade with a bid put together by a small, dedicated group of arts and culture professionals in the city. I wasnt part of that bid, but Ive heard stories of late nights and strong coffee, sheets of handwritten notes on kitchen tables. That time was The Dreaming for Cork 2005. An almost mythical time of people dreaming of possibilities for their city. Dreaming of a world-class programme, of a city getting a year of recognition, of creativity and celebration. Of a city taking its place on the European and world stages. Cork won, the dream had to come true. I think I was the designations sixth employee. I arrived just before we moved into our premises, the Dolls House on Popes Quay. I remember not having a phone, a desk or a chair. None of us had. That was 2003. All we knew was that our job was to try and make the dream a reality. Two years later, Antarctic explorers and spiders would be colliding on a thronged Oliver Plunkett Street. Cork people were preparing projects and world-renowned artists were arriving in droves to perform, exhibit, talk, read, write, publish, and show. By then, the Cork 2005 company had grown to have the commissioning, production, promotion and management capacity to put on events in all of these disciplines and a multiplicity of locations for more than a million people. The world watched. The designation meant the name of Cork reached audiences that simply would never otherwise have heard of the place. The South China Morning Post springs to mind as doing a Cork 2005 spread. So did La Nacion in Buenos Aires. African media, the New Zealand Herald, Central Asian media, The New York Times and a bunch of other US publications. Places you dont associate with a European Union designation. We got almost as much attention in the broader English-speaking world as we did in the European Union. Many millions of people must have heard about Cork in 2005. I still see marketing materials every now and then that advert to the fact Cork was European Capital of Culture. Its a good brand. One of the benchmarks for a successful Capital of Culture is that tourist numbers go up in the year after the designation. Its a positive sign. It happened in Cork, and stayed happening until the economy crashed. Twenty years on though, the importance of the year for me is more than this. I remember seeing Sebastiao Salgados photographs and it was almost as if I had seen photography for the first time. I remember watching Michael Nyman in the Opera House with his orchestra, and thinking woah. I remember going back to see Airgead, the exhibition of Cork silver, three times. The James Barry exhibition. The currach crews training for Ocean to City. The Lee Swim coming back after 13 years. Doris Lessing, Nuala Ni Dhomhnall. The blue sky the January day Cork 2005 launched... The delight among the children when the Antarctic explorers and the giant spiders collided. Delight that seemed to be repeated over and over in the city that day. Every Capital of Culture is unique, just as every city is different. Working on a Capital of Culture project is a unique experience. I met some of the most wonderful people of my working life, and made friends for life. The years do not divide us. The fact is that Cork was a far smaller city than any that had previously held the designation on its own. And Cork pulled it off. In 2005, Cork took its place among European Cultural Capitals like Florence, Paris, Athens, Salamanca and Berlin. The EU later decided that no city will ever host the European Capital of Culture designation on its own again. Cork did. It was not the last to do so, but I would argue it was the last successful one. Having always dabbled in art, the covid pandemic was the catalyst for Cork teacher Edel Hanrahan-Ryder to take their passion for it seriously. Now, the mother-of-three, who uses they them and their personal pronouns, is having their first solo portrait exhibition at the Hideout Cafe & Art Gallery on Wellington Road from January 9 to February 28. Edels exhibition, entitled Me, Myself & BTS, inspired by South Korean boy band BTS, also known as Bangtan Boys, comprises 30 pairs of portraits in ink, watercolour and graphite. Each pair consists of a self-portrait of Edel and a portrait of a member of BTS, linked together through song lyrics from the bands music. The hugely successful band addresses mental health issues as well as coming-of-age, loss and self-love through its lyrics and it has an alternate universe storyline. Me, Myself & BTS will take the viewer on a journey through the artists exploration of self-acceptance and renewal, while aging. As a 47-year-old mother of children that are on the autism spectrum, Edel started to wonder where they could find space for their own identity. Painting helped to fulfil that need. The exhibition, to be opened by artist Vivienne Roche, is Edels attempt to answer whether they could find a way to love themselves as much as they love those around them. Artwork by Edel Hanrahan-Ryder, who specialises in self-portraits Edel studied maths and computer science at university and worked in IT. They spent six years in Japan working for a start-up in the early days of mobile app development. When the company went bust, Edel and two other colleagues started their own company working for other expats that wanted tailor-made software and web application development. Having met their husband online (Cork writer, Gareth Hanrahan), he came out to Japan to visit Edel. I was going to come back to Cork for a holiday. In the end, I came back and stayed, selling my share in the company. I retrained as a teacher and got a job teaching maths and computer science at Christ King, said Edel. While Edel loves teaching, they say it occupies a very doing mode. To satisfy their need for creativity, they took some time out to study life drawing at the Crawford and a graphic design course at MTU. But with Gareth also involved in the arts, one of us had to have a sensible job. Edel took a year out from teaching after the birth of their daughter. It coincided with the pandemic. I think we all struggled to find something to do. I couldnt do a lot physically at the time as I had a huge kidney stone blocking one of my kidneys. Surgery kept being pushed off. I just started to paint and I was watching Chinese and Korean dramas. A friend sent me a play-list of music and one song by BTS stopped me in my tracks. I didnt understand the words but became obsessed with it. I started looking into the band. I had been painting trees and stuff like that. Then I started to paint the portraits of the band members while listening to their music. Has Edel learned to love herself, self-love being one of BTSs themes? Im learning. Edel has been using non-binary pronouns since before the pandemic. Its something that fits me. I never felt like I was a boy or anything but I never really felt comfortable whenever anybody referred to doing girly things. Using non-binary pronouns is just my preference. While Edel describes their self as a portrait artist, they are working on a new project, pairing buildings with Cork people. Ive just finished a piece on Blackrock Castle and I want to do a portrait of Cillian Murphy as hes associated with the Blackrock area. Portrait painting is a special talent but Edel doesnt think that portraits have to be realistic to be really good likenesses of people. A portrait has to feel like the person. In 2024, Edel started job-sharing the teaching role. Thats not really because of the art. But with three children on the autism spectrum, they have a lot of appointments to be taken to, particularly my daughter Nimue (5). She has a lot of challenges, including behaviourally, stemming from not being able to communicate. She doesnt really speak but she might spell out words. She attends the ASD unit at Bunscoil Chriost Ri. Shes in a class of six so she gets really good attention and fantastic occupational therapy. Edel and Gareths 11-year old twin boys, Tristan and Elyan, were late speakers but they speak fine now. They have their own struggles such as sensory overwhelm so they have a lot of appointments as well. The twins are in fifth class in the same school as their sister. (The children are called after Arthurian legend names). With their busy life, Edel feels really grateful for having fallen into art and working on BTS portraits, adding: Their music and message are really uplifting and positive. The band has a series called mapping the soul which goes into Jungian philosophy, ego and shadow. That made me read a lot. BTS has a young fan base as well as an older one. One of them, Suga, does solo music which delves into personal areas such as struggles with mental health and depression. The band also does bright, sunny fluffy pop stuff too, which is fun and enjoyable. But its their deeper message that drew me in. Additional funding has been announced to encourage ongoing efforts to boost breastfeeding rates in Cork and across the country. Cork North Central TD Colm Burke, the minister for public health, wellbeing and the national drug strategy, announced the additional funding amounting to 900,000 for breastfeeding supports in 2025. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has said that encouraging more mothers to breastfeed is a priority for both the Department of Health and the HSE, with some of the additional funding going towards the recruitment of an additional five lactation consultants in areas where breastfeeding rates are lower than average or in disadvantaged groups. These areas will be identified from the HSE Breastfeeding Strategy Plan desktop review, which was published during National Breastfeeding week in October. Additionally, 340,000 of the funds will be used to provide breast pumps for mothers of critically ill and pre-term infants, enabling them to provide breastmilk for their babies while they are in hospital for extended periods and when they are discharged home. Health benefits Im delighted to announce this funding which will support the ongoing efforts to boost Irelands breastfeeding rates, leading to long-term health benefits, said Mr Burke. As well as being a bonding experience for mother and baby, importantly, breastfeeding offers babies excellent protection from infection and promotes healthy growth and development. We know that even small amounts of breast milk, particularly in the first few days, is beneficial and helps to boost babies immune systems it can also help post-partum recovery. Mr Burke also approved the establishment of a steering group to research and design a new whole of government breastfeeding policy. This policy development will be informed by a new infant feeding survey that was allocated funding for 2025. The survey will gather data on infant feeding from birth to one year, which can inform how supports for new mothers feeding their infants throughout the first year can be provided. Cork City Council is failing some of its most vulnerable tenants, abandoning them in appalling living conditions, and neglecting to meet some of their most basic human rights, a housing activist has alleged. The claim was made after a 60-year-old council tenant with a number of disabilities told The Echo he had received no contact from the council in two months, despite living in a mould-covered bedsit which the council has said it intends to demolish. Terry OBrien has lived in a social housing flat on Noonans Rd for more than eight years, and like most of the homes in the 60-year-old buildings it is prone to extreme damp and black mould. Mr OBrien suffers from a number of disabilities, living with limited mobility caused by injured hips and knees, and says his lungs are destroyed by the mould and damp in his flat. Transfer Mr OBrien says he requested a transfer more than a year ago. Two months ago, he received a phone call from a council employee but has heard nothing since. The council flats on Noonans Rd, St Finbarrs Rd, Fort St, and Dean St were built in the 1960s and were originally planned to have a 50-year lifespan. The flats according to tenants have long since become prone to cold, damp, black mould, and rodent infestation. Last year, a campaign by residents led by housing activist William OBrien and highlighted in The Echo resulted in the then chief executive of Cork City Council, Ann Doherty, describing living conditions in the flats as shocking. In September 2023, the council told tenants it favoured rehousing them and demolishing the flats. Now, there are approximately 30 tenants left in the 90-odd Noonans Rd and St Finbarrs Rd flats. However, the 38 flats on Fort St and Dean St remain mostly occupied. 'Total injustice' Reacting to Terry OBriens situation, William OBrien who is not related to Terry said it was a total injustice that vulnerable people were being left in damp and mouldy flats the council intends to knock. Terry is a council tenant, he pays his rent, he is a person Cork City Council seems to have abandoned. Hes living in atrocious conditions in a block of flats that the council has admitted is not fit for purpose, and it seems to me that the council is failing to meet some of his basic human rights as a tenant, he said. Hes in a bedsit that is making him sick, and he has nobody explaining his rights to him, nobody in the council looking out for him. He needs a tenant support officer to help him. Terry gets a phone call from a council employee, but theres nothing in writing. Theres nothing to back up the conversation and here he is, two months later, none the wiser as to whether hell get a new place or not. Terry OBrien said he was on the city councils online choice-based letting system, but hadnt seen anything that would suit him. He agreed that he needed help from a tenant support officer. In November and December, William OBrien sent emails on Terrys behalf and, they both said, no response came back. Medical condition Earlier this month, another Noonans Rd tenant, Dan Galvin, who has a serious medical condition, claimed that when he told the council he was not computer literate and thus was unable to use the letting system, he had been sent a users guide to the online system. William OBrien described this as a further illustration that Cork City Council doesnt seem to get its responsibilities as a landlord. Failing tenants with disabilities on an interpersonal level is a total injustice, William OBrien said. It is surely a basic human right in 2024, almost 2025, that tenants be treated with basic dignity and shown the smallest bit of respect, and Cork City Council really needs to appoint tenant support officers to help vulnerable people. A spokesperson for Cork City Council said the Noonan's Road project was a top priority. We are currently focusing on relocating all residents to suitable properties, ensuring a smooth transition to support the planned regeneration of the area. Resident engagement is central to this process, and we are actively collaborating with tenants to address their needs and concerns, ensuring they are well-informed and supported throughout their relocation. The contact programme is well advanced, and we have supported a large number of residents to transfer to date. It is important to note that this engagement process takes time, as we must discuss and agree on the individual requirements and preferences of tenants, considering available property options as they arise. Cork City Council does not comment on individual cases. However, the residents involved are included in our ongoing engagement programme and will continue to be supported in this relocation process. Revellers ringing in the New Year in Cork may need to pack an umbrella, with Met Eireann issuing a yellow rain warning for the county. There is more bad news on the way, with the national forecaster also predicting that a cold snap will hit the country over the coming days as an Arctic airmass moves towards Europe with temperatures set to drop as low as 4C by Thursday. The yellow rain warning issued for Cork and Kerry will come into effect from 6pm today and will remain in place until 6am tomorrow. Met Eireann has warned that, during this time, there are likely to be heavy spells of rainfall, with the potential for localised flooding and hazardous travelling conditions. Wet and windy It will be a wet and windy night in the South-West and South for the New Years Eve festivities, especially in those counties where we have warnings in place, with persistent rain and some flurries of sleet or snow possible, said Met Eireann deputy head of forecasting Liz Coleman. So plan ahead if you are going to be out and about celebrating." For New Years Eve in Cork and the wider Munster region, it is set to be windy in the morning with rain quickly extending to all areas. Rain may ease off in northern parts of the province for a time in the afternoon, before becoming widespread and heavier again in the evening. Highest temperatures will range from 10C to 12C, with strong and gusty southwesterly winds, easing by evening. New Years Day will see heavy rain for a time, mainly in eastern and southern regions, with some falls of sleet or snow possible. This will clear away south-eastwardly during the day. It may be windy in parts for a time also, with winds becoming northwesterly and gradually easing. Some sunny spells will develop with showers in parts. Thursday is set to be largely dry, sunny, and cold with just a few light showers some of which may be wintry along north-facing coasts. For the following few days and into the opening weekend of January, it is forecasted to be very cold, largely dry, and bright with widespread frosts developing during the nights. There will be well-scattered wintry showers too, mainly in northern and some western parts. Some fog and freezing fog will develop by night and will be slow to clear by day. The elderly father of French film producer Sophie Toscan Du Plantier has died just days after the 28th anniversary of her murder near her holiday home in Toormore on the outskirts of Schull in West Cork. Georges Bouniol, who was 98, passed away in Paris after spending close to three decades seeking justice for the murder of his 39-year-old daughter. Mr Bouniol died in hospital with his family at his bedside. For many years Georges and his wife Marguerite travelled to West Cork at Christmas to attend an anniversary mass for Sophie with their son Bertrand and Sophie's son Pierre-Louis. Two years ago Sophies uncle Jean Pierre Gazeau said it was the final wish of her parents, to see a conviction in the case. He said that the family had waited too long for justice. Marguerite Bouniol, Georges Bouniol and Madeline Opelka laying a wreath at the scene of Sophie Toscan du Plantier's murder in Toormore, West Cork They are so heartbroken that they still cannot move on with their lives. Theyve been waiting so long for justice and know they will not be around forever. Its their wish that they will see a successful end to this investigation so they can live the rest of their lives in peace. Body The battered body of the French woman was found on December 23, 1996 on a laneway leading to her remote holiday home. The self confessed chief suspect in the case, 66-year-old Ian Bailey, died earlier this year. He was on two occasions detained by gardai for questioning in relation to the murder. Mr Bailey always vehemently denied any wrongdoing in relation to the murder of the mother of one who had always enjoyed her trips to West Cork. Sophie enjoyed spending time in her solitary rural retreat. Mr Bailey was convicted in absentia after a trial in France in 2015. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison. However, officials in France were unable to extradite Mr Bailey to Paris to serve the sentence handed down by the courts. Mr Bailey fought two attempts by the authorities in France to extradite him to the country. He also unsuccessfully sued newspapers for allegedly defaming him and gardai for allegedly trying to frame him. Complaint He also lodged a complaint with GSOC in early 2012 into his treatment by gardai investigating the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. A subsequent GSOC report indicated grave issues of concern but said there was no evidence to suggest that Mr Bailey was framed for the murder or that evidence was falsified, forged, or fabricated by members of An Garda Siochana. The report revealed that 22 case exhibits can no longer be located. These include a blood spattered gate taken from close to where the body of the French national was found, a wine bottle discovered in a field next to the scene of the crime and a black overcoat belonging to Mr Bailey. A cold case review in to the death of Sophie Toscan Du Plantier is ongoing. It is understood that it is several months from being completed. Cork people need to adopt a use it or lose it mentality when it comes to supporting their local post offices, a Cork city councillor has said. Labours Peter Horgan has urged people to make a new years resolution to post local and shop local for 2025. Research published in November, and carried out by Red C on behalf of the Irish Postmasters Union (IPU), found that 78% of respondents agreed their local post office provides them with valuable services they could not easily find elsewhere. Despite a widespread move towards digitisation, 91% said the post office remains crucial. Although post offices have more recently been used by older people buying stamps and collecting social welfare, the research found support is strong among young people. Some 82% of respondents aged 18-34 said their community would be worse off without a post office. Essential Mr Horgan said it was essential that people in the city and its suburbs remembered to support their local post offices. We have to adopt a use it or lose mentality, he said. From shopping local to posting local, supporting the local post office for jobs such as bill payments, savings, and other items like motor tax and TV licences, we have to support our local post offices. When a post office closes, it is like a dagger in a local communitys heart. We have to use them and show we want to retain them now, not after the fact. Cork city has lost several post offices in recent years, among them outlets on High St, Shandon St, Montenotte, and Military Rd. In a motion before the December meeting of Cork City Council, Mr Horgan sought an examination by the council of an enhanced service support scheme to run through the local authorities. Although such a scheme is not being taken up now, Mr Horgan urged the council to keep an open mind on the proposal. He said that the attention such a scheme would give to local post offices would be worth it. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. The roof of Tropicana Field stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida was destroyed by Hurricane Milton, seen Oct. 10, 2024, a day after the storm. Joe Raedle / Getty Images The most financially costly climate disasters around the world in 2024 produced $229 billion in damages and killed 2,000 people, according to Counting the Cost 2024: A year of climate breakdown, the most recent analysis of insurance payouts by nonprofit Christian Aid. Three-quarters of these calamities occurred in the United States, reported The Guardian. Behind the billion-dollar figures are countless lost lives and livelihoods, said Dr. Mariam Zachariah, a researcher for World Weather Attribution at Imperial College London, in a press release from Christian Aid. Since the financial costs are only based on insurance losses, the numbers do not reflect the true figures, which are likely to be higher, in addition to the often uncounted human costs. Among the extreme weather events that caused the most financial damage in 2024, Hurricane Milton in October was the most costly single event, bringing $60 billion in damages with 25 lives lost. Hurricane Helene, which struck Cuba, Mexico and the U.S. in September, was close behind with $55 billion. The monster hurricane killed 232 people. In addition to these major hurricanes, smaller storms in the U.S. killed 88 people and brought $60 billion in damages. The data is now also showing that climate change is doubling the likelihood of many extreme weather events like floods and tropical cyclones and increasing their intensity, leading to massive destruction and loss of life, said Patrick Watt, chief executive officer of Christian Aid, in the report. People living in poverty in the worlds lower income nations are disproportionately affected by the costs and impacts of climate events. This highlights the necessity for adaptation strategies to mitigate vulnerability before disasters strike. Decembers Cyclone Chido in Mayotte potentially killed more than 1,000 people. Left to right: Satellite imagery of homes and buildings near College de Kwale in Mamoudzou, Malotte before Cyclone Chido, on March 19, 2024, and after on Dec. 16, 2024. 2024 Maxar Technologies The tragic impacts of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte really show how vulnerable small islands are to climate change. A single storm can severely damage critical infrastructure like power, water supply and communications across an entire island, making international support essential. Small islands must be supported to build resilience to tropical cyclones. It is not enough to just improve early warning systems, we must improve the resilience of homes and critical infrastructure to ensure that people have somewhere safe to shelter and essential services are operational during and after the storm, said University of Reading professor Liz Stephens in the report. Worldwide, no region escaped the devastating impacts of climate disasters this year. Flooding in China killed 315 and cost $15.6 billion, while Southwest Asias Typhoon Yagi took the lives of more than 800 and caused widespread destruction from Thailand to the Philippines. Three of the 10 most costly disasters occurred in Europe, including Storm Boris and floods in Germany and Spain, which collectively claimed 258 lives and caused $13.87 billion in damages. In Bangladesh, heatwaves affected 33 million, while West African floods displaced millions across Chad, Niger and Nigeria. Water levels in the Amazon River have fallen by 90 percent, threatening livelihoods for the regions Indigenous communities. Most of these disasters show clear fingerprints of climate change. Extreme weather is clearly causing incredible suffering in all corners of the world, Zachariah said, as The Guardian reported. This report is just a snapshot of climate devastation in 2024. There are many more droughts, heatwaves, wildfires and floods not included that are becoming more frequent and intense. Christian Aid noted that other of the years major climate disasters had a lower immediate cost financially, but would have incalculable subsequent costs in terms of deaths; the destruction of ecosystems; and damage to sea levels, food supplies and social stability. Watt urged the worlds policymakers to reduce emissions and increase financial compensation to poor countries. The human suffering caused by the climate crisis reflects political choices. There is nothing natural about the growing severity and frequency of droughts, floods and storms, Watt said, as reported by The Guardian. Disasters are being supercharged by decisions to keep burning fossil fuels, and to allow emissions to rise. And theyre being made worse by the consistent failure to deliver on financial commitments to the poorest and most climate-vulnerable countries. In 2025 we need to see governments leading, and taking action to accelerate the green transition, reduce emissions, and fund their promises, Watt said in the press release. Daniel Lurie walks through Chinatown after speaking at St. Marys Square on Nov. 8, a day after winning the San Francisco mayoral race. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie will attend and host festivities in Chinatown on his inaugural day in office in a nod to the citys Asian American communities growing political influence and demonstration of Pan-Asian solidarity. We are honored that Mayor-elect Lurie chose to hold a celebration in Chinatown on inauguration day the first time a newly sworn-in San Francisco mayor has done so, said Lily Lo, founder of coalition organization BeChinatown and organizer of the popular Chinatown night markets. Daniel Lurie fist bumps a supporter in Chinatown on Nov. 8, a day after winning the mayoral race in San Francisco. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle After being sworn in at City Hall on the morning of Jan. 8, Lurie will attend an evening celebration at Far East Cafe, Chinatowns last remaining large banquet hall, while his inauguration committee will host a Chinatown night market and community festival on Grant Avenue between Sacramento and Jackson streets. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The banquet is being hosted by eight organizations including the historic Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, an immigrant network that dates to the late 19th century to nascent Asian American and Pacific Islander activist groups founded in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as local nonprofit group Asians are Strong, founded in 2021. The reason for this party is not just being symbolic of Chinatown but uniting all Asians in the city that were one group here, working together to lift everyone up, said Bill Lee, a former city administrator who closely watches Asian American politics. Mark Young, co-chair of the banquet and co-founder of the anti-hate nonprofit group Stand With Asians, called the diverse coalition a historic display of unity. Mayor-elect Lurie is honoring the Chinese American and AAPI community, who played a pivotal role in getting him into office, Young said. This years mayoral election saw candidates intensely courting the citys Asian American voters, the largest non-white racial group and one that had played decisive roles in recent local elections, with campaigns, including Luries, appointing political directors dedicated to liaising with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Asian American vote for mayor was ultimately split among a range of mayoral candidates, although Lurie won 30% of first-choice votes in majority-Asian precincts, a Chronicle analysis found, the highest of any candidate. Lurie also did not entirely carry Chinatown, a Chronicle analysis found. He and Chinatown Supervisor and board President Aaron Peskin shared the lead in first-choice votes among the neighborhoods precincts. Despite that, Lee said that Luries choosing the neighborhood for inauguration festivities shows his commitment to making sure Asian Americans are well represented in his administration. The inauguration teams Chinatown night market is open to the public and will run from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. More than 1,300 critically endangered land snails have been released in the Ilhas Desertas (Desert Islands) archipelago off the Moroccan coast. The reintroduction of the tiny molluscs to their native habitat followed the rescue of two obscure species of the snail from the edge of extinction, reported The Guardian. The snails hadnt been recorded for over a century and were thought to have disappeared. If it goes as well as we hope, more snails will follow them next spring. Its a huge team effort which shows that it is possible to turn things around for highly threatened species, said Gerardo Garcia, curator of lower vertebrates and invertebrates at Chester Zoo in the United Kingdom, as the BBC reported. The pea-sized molluscs are native to mountainous Deserta Grande island, southeast of Madeira. Their habitat was destroyed by invasive mice, rats and goats that had been brought there by humans. A wild refuge for the snails was restored on neighboring Bugio Island, where the invasive species were eradicated. The reintroduction plan was coordinated by biologist Dinarte Teixeira with the Instituto das Florestas e Conservacao da Natureza (IFCN) as part of the conservation program Help Desertas Snails, reported Madeira News. Participants in the effort included the Chester and Bristol Zoos and Mossy Earth in the UK, Frances ZooParc de Beauval and the International Union for Conservation of Natures Atlantic Islands Invertebrate Specialist Group. Four additional preliminary reintroduction projects are planned for 2025 and 2026. An ongoing monitoring program will analyze the reintroduced snails survival rate, as well as their potential impact on the islands other mollusc communities. The data will be used to measure the conservation programs success. IFCN experts rediscovered populations of less than 200 individuals each of two subspecies of the tiny snail during conservation expeditions from 2012 to 2017, The Guardian reported. It had been feared that invasive predators had possibly decimated the species. The snails were relocated to the zoos in France and the UK. The conservation science team, along with Madeira experts, constructed mini habitats for 60 of the snails at Chester Zoo as part of the breeding program. It was a huge responsibility to begin caring for them, said Dr. Gerardo Garcia, head of ectotherms at Chester Zoo, as reported by The Guardian. As a zoo conservation community, we knew nothing about them. Theyd never been in human care before and we had to start from a blank piece of paper and try to figure out what makes them tick. In order to protect Bugio Islands fragile ecosystem, humans have not been allowed on the island since 1990. Within a few months we were able to crack the breeding of the Desertas land snails. Crucially, we were then successful in breeding multiple generations. This was key, because it meant we could then bring in the support of other zoos and establish a network, breeding them in the substantial numbers needed to have a chance of saving the species, said Heather Prince, Chester Zoo invertebrate specialist, as The Guardian reported. Each snail that has been reintroduced has an individual monitoring marker. If the effort is successful, many more of the endangered snails will be released. These snails are incredibly precious. The Desertas Islands are the only place in the world where they can be found and so were striving to do everything we can to give them the best possible chance for the future. For 100 years we thought theyd gone for ever, but now theres new hope, Teixeira added. Were wrapping up 2024, so why not do it with some frivolous CES announcements? Like this premium (it has to be premium!) microwave from LG, with a touchscreen bigger than your iPad. Im not sure what youll watch in the three-and-a-half minutes it takes to heat that butter chicken curry, but you can do it in glorious full HD resolution. LG The touchscreen integrates with LGs ThinQ Smart Home Dashboard if you think its the right time to change channels on your TV or tinker with compatible Matter and Thread devices, like smart lights and er, and other things. It can also pair with the companys induction range oven to display cooking progress if you struggle to crane your neck from your microwave to your kitchen burners. Its no washing machine inside a washing machine, but still, you gotta love CES. LG is on a trip this year. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Mat Smith Get this delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! The biggest tech stories you missed The breach was first reported on December 8. Documents and workstations at the US Treasury Department were accessed during a cyberattack linked to a "China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat actor." The attack was pretty bad, and its been cited as "a major cybersecurity incident." The Treasury Department said it has worked with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI to understand the full scope of the breach but hasn't shared how long files and workstations were accessible or what was accessed. Beijing has denied any involvement. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Continue reading. DJIs Neo made aerial video accessible for everyone. Engadget Honesty? 2024 was a dull year for cameras, with new devices offering small tweaks and minor improvements. But drones? Specifically, entry-level ones? DJI made it an intriguing year, spitting out multiple models, including the versatile, easy-to-use Neo, all while fending off the US government's plans to ban sales from the company. Continue reading. The two text-based platforms share some of the same goals, but almost none of the same tactics for getting there. Theres no longer any question that Threads and Bluesky have created the most viable alternatives to the platform once known as Twitter. But while the two services may share some of the same goals, theyve shown very different visions for how text-based social networks should operate. Threads, of course, is controlled by Meta, which is controlled by Mark Zuckerberg. And though the company has claimed to embrace public conversation, it has also consistently put its thumb on the scale to encourage certain types of speech over others. The company throttled political content in an election year, forcing users to tweak their settings to enable posts about elections or social topics to appear in their for you feed. This desire to limit any of what Meta described as "potentially sensitive" content has also led to some questionable moderation decisions. For months, the app prevented users from searching for some topics, including those related to COVID-19 and vaccines. Those limits have since been lifted, but there have been numerous and inexplicable instances of other moderation failures on Threads. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement In October, Instagram head Adam Mosseri admitted the company had found mistakes and made changes after users reported their accounts had been penalized for using mundane words like saltines and cracker. Earlier this month, Metas communications director Andy Stone apologized after users noted that searches for posts about Austin Tice, the American journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012, were blocked on the app because the content may be associated with the sale of drugs. Stone didnt offer an explanation but said the issue has been addressed. Bluesky, on the other hand, has taken less of a top-down approach to moderation. While the company employs some of its own moderators to enforce baseline moderation, users have a lot of control over how much questionable or harmful content they want to see. Blueksy also allows people to create their own moderation services for an even more custom experience. Moderation is in many ways, like governance, Bluesky CEO Jay Graber told me earlier this year. And setting the norms of a social space, we don't think one person or one company should be unilaterally deciding that for an entire ecosystem where people are having public conversations important to the state of the world. That philosophy plays out in other important ways. Twitter was never a major source of traffic for most publishers, even before Elon Musks takeover. But the platform once played a vital role in the news ecosystem. At a time when Elon Musk has acknowledged that X penalizes posts with links and Threads top exec has said that Meta doesnt want to encourage hard news, Blueskys leaders have actually tried to foster link sharing, and several publishers have reported seeing significantly more traffic from Bluesky, compared with Threads and X. But perhaps the most obvious difference between Meta and Blueskys approach is in what order posts even appear. Bluesky defaults to a reverse chronological feed that shows posts from accounts you follow. Users can also choose to add custom feeds based on hundreds of different topics. For example, I follow a cat pics feed that surfaces posts with photos of cats and a trending news feed that surfaces links to news stories that are being shared widely on the platform. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement And while Meta has recently come out with its own version of custom feeds, the app still defaults to an algorithmic for you feed that surfaces a mix of content users actually want and unasked-for drivel thats so random and bizarre its been compared to a gas leak. (Meta said it would test allowing users to make their following feed the default, but hasnt provided an update.) Its also telling that even the content creators getting paid hundreds or thousands of dollars to post on Threads dont really understand the platform. There are even more significant changes coming in 2025. While both Threads and Bluesky have so far been blissfully ad-free, both services will need to eventually make money. Bluesky has so far experimented with other ways of making money, including selling custom domains and an upcoming subscription service that will offer extra features to paying users. Though Graber hasnt entirely ruled out advertising, shes also been clear that she doesn't want to enshittify the service for the sake of advertising. Threads, on the other hand, is already attached to Metas multi-billion dollar ad machine, an entity so intrusive many people believe the companys apps literally listen to their conversations (a theory thats been repeatedly debunked.) Though Zuckerberg has indicated the company isnt in a rush to turn Threads into a very large business, it could see its first ads in January, according to reports, and theres little reason to believe Meta wont eventually employ the same playbook it has with all its other services. All this makes Bluesky even more of an underdog. Threads is already more than 10 times its size and Meta has made it clear it has no problem using its copy-or-kill tactics against the upstart. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement But thats also exactly why so many Bluesky users fervently believe that the platform is the one that has the juice. While Threads and X put public conversations in the hands of autocratic billionaires, Bluesky is an independent entity and has structured its platform much more democratically. The platform has had its share of moderation controversies, but it puts far more control in the hands of its users. Its welcomed developers, who have created dozens of third-party apps for the service. All that may not ultimately be enough to fend off Meta, which can afford to throw billions of dollars at Threads. But Blueskys vision for an open-source decentralized platform is about much more than becoming the next big social media site. We set out to change the way social media works from the bottom up, Graber said during a recent press event. I want us to have choice over what we see. Jeffrey Tumlin, director of transportation for the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, wears a transit-themed suit while riding on the new subway line at the Muni Chinatown-Rose Pak Station in 2022. Tumlin will be leaving his post at the end of December. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle When Jeffrey Tumlin took his post as San Franciscos top transportation official in late 2019, he had marching orders to get Muni running on time and stop the transit systems equipment meltdowns with no warning that, in three months, a global pandemic would plunge the transit system into crisis. Preparing to step down five years later, Tumlin remembered that period not only for the tumult it brought, but for the reforms it inspired. Forced to overhaul the bus and rail system in the course of a weekend, he and his team made adjustments that would stick long after the shutdowns were over. Innovations in scheduling, aimed to cope with operator absences during COVID, ultimately made buses more reliable. Other experiments, such as the Slow Streets program, reflected Tumlins philosophy of street design: Sacrifice convenience for cars to promote safety for bikes and pedestrians. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The idea inflamed a culture war, and by the end of his term, Tumlin was among San Franciscos most polarizing leaders. Hes come to accept that status, openly wondering whether any San Francisco transportation chief can take risks, and try to change the geometry of city streets, without provoking ire. Jeffrey Tumlins transit-themed suit shows a portion of the San Francisco city map with transit stops. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle 2022 Tumlin will leave at a moment when the way we move around the city is transforming radically, with self-driving cars on the rise just as commuting numbers decline a shift thats caused devastating financial losses for Muni and other transit agencies. San Franciscos longtime transit director, Julie Kirschbaum, will replace Tumlin while the city searches for a permanent successor. In a wide-ranging exit interview, Tumlin shared his thoughts about the future, voiced skepticism of autonomous vehicles and explained why transportation has become such a raw topic in San Francisco. Parts of this exchange have been edited and resequenced. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Q: Some people foresee a future in which autonomous vehicles like Waymos are ubiquitous in how people travel throughout the city. If someone wants to get somewhere, they summon a robotaxi, take it to a transit stop. Is this crazy talk? A: Lets talk about a little history of mobility innovation. When Uber and Lyft were founded in San Francisco, they made grand promises about the end of car ownership, solving traffic congestion and improving the efficiency of the mobility system. I think Uber and Lyft had the opposite of their intended effects. Uber and Lyft are very convenient, but they have worsened the efficiency of the system. Many people have a hard time understanding the difference between user convenience and system efficiency. A challenge we face in the mobility world is a challenge of geometry. When I walk or bike or take Muni, I take up one-tenth of the roadway space as I do when I drive my own car, or take an Uber, or take a Waymo. So, if I am choosing my individual user convenience, I am worsening system efficiency and causing the overall roadway system to have less capacity to move people. San Francisco transportation chief Jeffrey Tumlin chats with a bus driver in San Francisco in July 2020. Hes stepping down from after five years on the job. Nick Otto/Special to The Chronicle My job (as San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency director) is to design the overall mobility system to make sure that everyone can move and to accommodate the next 82,000 housing units that San Francisco has committed to. A big part of my job is focusing on geometric limitations. Were no longer demolishing neighborhoods to widen streets. The streets are as wide as theyre ever going to be. I need to maximize the public benefit of our limited public right of way. That means accommodating as much user convenience as I can, but always focusing on system efficiency and always focusing on the needs of people with the fewest choices. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Waymo, like Uber, like Lyft, like taxis, are really convenient. They take me from A to B. I dont have to worry about parking or pay for parking which is (partly) how we fund Muni. But they reduce the ability of the San Francisco street network to move people, if theyre getting in the way of walking, biking and transit. Q: So the rise of ride-hail vehicles, including Waymo, is taking money away from Muni? A: The SFMTA owns nearly a dozen (parking) garages in the downtown area, some of which are sitting mostly empty. All of that money used to go to fund Muni. In addition, the SFMTA has a 25% parking sales tax on all private commercial garages in the downtown. Those are also sitting empty. Its downtown office buildings that are not full of people, but its also Union Square suffering from a loss of regional shoppers. Its also part of a long-term trend. Fifteen years ago, if you were a business traveler going to an ophthalmology conference at Moscone, you would rent a car at (San Francisco International Airport) and drive and park at the Moscone garage. Business travelers stopped doing that over a decade ago. They started using ride-hail services. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When I started this job, at the peak of a boom economy, we had an over $50 million annual structural deficit. COVID simply accelerated some long-term trends. Uber, Lyft and now Waymo are a big part of why Muni funding is down. Q: When thinking about what defines your tenure, fixing Muni was a big one. But there was a lot of bike lane construction, a lot of intersection redesign. A: And transit-only lanes! In our little 7-by-7-mile city we have 75 miles of transit-only lanes. On a per capita or per square kilometer basis, we have not yet been able to identify a city with a denser transit lane network in the world (though we want to be proven wrong). The biggest, most effective investments we made are the ones nobody paid attention to. Like the 38-Geary (Muni line). We have transit-only lanes the entire length of Geary from the Salesforce Transit Center all the way to 33rd Avenue. We just went out and painted. And California. 16th Street. Potrero. Most of Mission. Were working in Golden Gate Park now with the Recreation and (Park) Department. The team went out and methodically measured every place where main lines were being delayed and worked to eliminate that delay. Block by block, intersection by intersection. Riders pack onto a 38-Geary Muni bus during rush hour in San Francisco in 2019. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle Q: Youre strongly associated with this movement to take back the streets by redesigning them. We saw this with Better Market Street, which coincided with your entrance, then there was JFK Drive going car-free, and Slow Streets. Maybe its not as consequential as fixing Muni, but its a big culture change. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A: And its where all the controversy came. Q: Exactly. Do you see this concept as having staying power? A: Well, I think that street safety needs to have staying power. If we look at cities anywhere in the world, San Francisco is needing to do some catch-up in basic walkability, bikeability, street safety. Q: But weve seen pushback. How are you responding to all the criticism? A: I feel like it has a culture war element right now. People are in entrenched camps and have stopped listening to each other. Were seeing a rise in disinformation and dehumanization of city workers. Whats needed is whats needed any time a community becomes deeply divided. Im hopeful that (Mayor-elect) Daniel Lurie will be able to bring the city back together again and focus on key principles. SFMTA Director of Transportation Jeffrey Tumlin rides a bicycle as people celebrate the vote to permanently keep Golden Gate Parks JFK Drive car-free in San Francisco in 2022. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle We need to make sure that people can walk around San Francisco, and if they follow the basic traffic rules, they can be confident that theyre not going to be run down in traffic. We need to decarbonize the transportation sector as rapidly as we can. We need to make sure that seniors, people with disabilities, kids can get around safely to school, to doctors appointments, or to do their shopping. And we need to support the citys economic recovery. We need to do that with limited resources, and with streets that are not getting any wider. We need to have a real conversation about trade-offs. In order to make sure everyone can still drive when they need to drive, ironically, we must do more to make transit faster, more frequent and more reliable, and to make walking and biking safer. Q: Youve said that a lot of Munis success comes from what you did to get through COVID. Walk us through that. A: It was March of 2020. We were in lockdown. New York City transit was burying dozens of its operators. People were terrified. Nobody knew how the disease would spread. The media kept highlighting public transit, as if it were this vector for disease, which later was proven emphatically (wrong). Yet, when newspapers write a story about COVID, they inevitably include a photo of a bus. Our workforce was scared. And yet, our workforce kept showing up. We marshaled office workers (in the SFMTA building) at 1 South Van Ness to clean and sterilize buses. We realized we had no way of predicting which of our operators would be able to show up on a given morning. We knew a lot were going to be in quarantine, and we had a lot of folks in the hospital in the end, none of our public-facing workers would die of COVID. So, we had no way of knowing how many operators would show up, or who, and every operator is assigned a very specific slot. If an operator doesnt show, you cant fill that run. At the same time, the health department had demanded social distancing, which dramatically cut the capacity of our vehicles. And, here in San Francisco, essential workers take transit. We made several really bold moves. One: We stripped the system back to its barest essentials. Since there was no way we could deliver anything like a full schedule and we needed to provide capacity for essential workers, and the downtown office core was shut down, we had to completely reinvent the system literally overnight. We identified where all the essential institutions were and used data to identify where our ridership was. Then we took 80-odd transit lines and stripped it down to 12. Jeffrey Tumlin, left, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg tour San Franciscos long-delayed Central Subway project in 2022. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle Q: You also closed the subway and got rid of traditional schedules, right? A: We boarded up the subway. We didnt need big trains going to the Financial District we needed buses going to the hospitals. Stripping it down to something we could effectively deliver that was core to making it work. Just as importantly, we completely abandoned bus schedules. And we turned on this technology called headway management, which wed had for a decade but never used. Headway management gives the operator information about how many minutes ahead the bus in front of them, and how many minutes behind the bus behind them is. And we just told all of our operators: Do the best you can to space yourselves out evenly. We just did the best we could. And it was spectacularly successful. We had this reliability breakthrough. Q: So the pandemic receded, the city entered a period of recovery. Do you keep these strategies? A: Thats right. As far as I know, were the only transit system in the world that uses headway management at scale for all of our main lines. The buses that run every 30 minutes those run on a schedule. But if the buses run every 10 minutes or better, we just ask the operators to space themselves out. A view from within the entrance to Chinatown Station on the Central Subway line in San Francisco in January 2023. Salgu Wissmath/The Chronicle Remember back eight years ago? If you were waiting for a bus on Mission Street, instead of one bus every five minutes, you would get five buses packed together every half hour. Then there would be a massive gap. Now, whether youre on Mission, Geary, Van Ness or any of our main lines (he snaps) the buses just come. If you miss your bus, you can look up the street and literally see the next bus coming. That has had compounded benefits. Previously, when Muni was much less reliable, people really avoided having to transfer from one line to another. If you were lucky enough to get your bus on one line, who knew if or when your transferring line was coming. With the reliability improved, people make many more transfers than they used to. And we found its changed peoples travel patterns. One thing that is remarkable to us is this: One of the few places in San Francisco where sales are exceeding pre-COVID is Japantown, which is right on the 38-Geary. I dont think twice about going for lunch in Japantown from my office (on South Van Ness). The 49-Van Ness runs every three minutes, the 38 runs every four minutes, and its really easy to transfer. Q: What about equipment breakdowns? A: One of the advantages of boarding up the subway for a year was we got all the crews in there and had them tackle decades of deferred maintenance. Much of the subway is still operating on its original 1977 equipment. On a typical day, the subway closes around 12:30 a.m., and it takes time to shut the subway down and check that all of the power is off. Then our crews can go in and do some work, but their window is only three hours. So when we shut the system down, their effectiveness dramatically improved. All the workers could get a full eight-hour shift in the subway. That inspired a new tradition: fix-it week. We shut the subway down at 9:30 p.m. instead of 12:30 a.m. Then our crews for a week work all night long full eight-hour shifts in this amazing ballet of maintenance. Commuters get on the train at Union Square Station on the Central Subway line in San Francisco in 2023. Salgu Wissmath/The Chronicle Q: Munis obviously in a precarious financial situation right now. There are headlines about how it might be eviscerated. What would you say to whoever takes over from here? A: One of the reasons I knew now was the right time to leave was the success weve had setting up the Muni Funding Working Group. Its an effort run by the controllers office that includes the mayors office, incoming mayors office, the Board of Supervisors, business, labor, many different interest groups, to help frame up the hard choices that we need to make moving forward. We need to rebuild the whole financial base. The Muni Funding Working Group is structured to do that. We broke it into four parts. We started by looking at efficiency. Then we looked at service cuts, which got us the headlines we wanted: This is real, this is whats at stake. In January, we then talk about all the different new revenue sources, and in February well talk about service improvements. Because in order to win with a ballot measure in 2026, we cant tell voters, Hey, just tax yourselves, and things will be the same as they are now. Q: How hopeful are you that voters will have the appetite for a tax? A: Thats what were working on. Thats why we structured a five-month process to span the current mayors term and the incoming mayors term. We knew that whoever the new mayor was going to be, this was going to be one of the first and hardest big decisions that they are going to make. There is a lot to lose, and its going to be hard to get a significant measure through to voters unless everyone is in agreement. Mariah the Scientist has seemingly responded to Young Thug's cheating scandal. Just before Christmas, Law & Crime's YouTube channel released a video of Young Thug on a phone call with model Leena Sayed in July 2022 when he was behind bars for alleged gang activity. However, the call where Sayed, who is married to boxer Devin Haney told Thug how "No one's like you. I don't like them, I want you," was when Thug was in a relationship with Mariah. Thug and Mariah have been together since 2021. Now, the "Spread Thin" songstress seemingly reacted to the controversy with a clip of R. Kelly's interview with Gayle King from March 2019 when he was discussing allegations of sexual abuse. Read more: Leena Sayed Flaunts Maybach Push Present After Leaked Young Thug Prison Call "I need help," R. Kelly began in the clip Mariah the Scientist, 27, posted on her Instagram Story. A screen recording of her post was captured by 'It's Onsite.' "What kind of help?" King, 70, asked the Chicago, Illinois, native in the clip. "This is the kind of help I need... I need somebody to help me not have a big heart because my heart is so big! People betray me and I keep forgiving them!" R. Kelly, 57, proclaimed through tears. The post has since been deleted. Thug, real name Jeffery Lamar Williams II, addressed the leaked call on X, calling Sayed his "twin" and how he has who he wants. Man me and twin was talking bout some whole other serious shit, I dont know y she spoke on loving other people or anything else cause ain giving no fuck bout no hoes or niggas Im the capital P lol thats my twin and nothing else. Never have never will lol Young Thug (@youngthug) December 23, 2024 I can have that lil shit right now if I wanted it, but she been pushing the p harder then niggas lol thats the twinI got who I want Young Thug (@youngthug) December 23, 2024 Despite the meme, Thug, 33, reportedly spent Christmas with Mariah, born Mariah Amani Buckles. The pair matched in green snow pants and black boots while posing for a picture. The snapshot of the pair showed them getting cozy in Big Bear, California, leading to speculation that the couple is on the mend despite the drama. Ashlee Braxton has broken her silence on the verbal, physical, and mental abuse she says she endured through childhood. Ashlee, daughter of Michael Braxton Jr., opened up regarding her painful upbringing in a clip obtained by 'It's OnSite,' where she revealed disheartening instances of abuse and abandonment. The niece of beloved vocal bombshells Toni Braxton and Tamar Braxton claims she's dealt with extreme cases of family drama growing up in the Braxton family. Although she reveals her parents were married as a child, things eventually took a turn for the worst according to her. "When I was younger, my parents were married, and then my parents got a divorce and then my mom decided to give us up to my dad. Then she took her name off our birth certificate and she decided to move on with her life. She had [another] life and kids," Ashlee, 32, told the podcast host. "My parents were very abusive to each other," the 32-year-old continued. "My stepmom was also very abusive to my sister and I as well... Physical, mental, emotional, all of it. But, from those two was physical...and then she decided to be that way with my sister and I but then there were moments where my dad was also physically abusive." "That's kind of the only memories I have with my parents," the niece of the "Un-Break My Heart" star said in the interview clip. Ashlee also said one of her famous aunts cut her off. Apparently, the estrangement had to do with a man and inappropriate contact with Ashlee when she was a minor. She did not name-drop which of her aunts cut her off, but detailed it was because the aunt thought Ashlee "did something" with her partner at 16. She also spoke of her ordeal in TikToks. "My aunt was there for me. She was very kind, very nice and was like 'I'm so sorry that this happened to you.' She was very kind, and it just felt safe," Ashlee recalled. "But then, as the years have gone by, it's like that mood and that assumption that I didn't do anything because I was a child was not that assumption anymore." Fans in the comment section appeared disgruntled with Ashlee's childhood account, as one speculated that it was simply "attention seeking," while others stated that they'd pray for "her healing." "She feels left out and wants attention. Why not talk to your family first. Attention seeking," one wrote in the comment section. "Praying for her healing. family trauma is tough to mediate," a second comforted. "Ohh my goodness...I have heard of father taking themselves out of birth certificate but a mom??? im [sic] flabbergasted," a third chimed in. "If she wasn't Toni Braxtons niece this interview wouldn't even exist," a fourth poked. The detailed account comes years after the hit reality series Braxton Family Values came to an end in December 2020 following nine years and seven seasons. The series highlighted the Braxton sisters Toni, Tamar, Traci, Towanda, and Trina, in addition to their mother Evelyn. Ashlee's dad, Michael, also appeared in the fan-favorite We TV series. They returned to the silver screen in August 2024 with another reality show The Braxtons. It seems Alabama Barker is battling the harrowing effects of excessive use of vape pens. The daughter of Blink-182's Travis Barker is fast regretting her uptick in vape use, going from an occasional vaper to upping the ante amid her aspiring music career. The 19-year-old called 911 herself as she had a medical scare involving nicotine withdrawal, per 'TMZ.' Barker, known for her appearances on the hit reality series, The Kardashians, was reportedly feeling unwell when she called 911. On Monday, December 30, she was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital. The musician reportedly put an abrupt stop to her increasing vaping habits, which led to her feeling panicked and unwell while she was alone at home. Sources say Barker called 911 out of concern for her health. When medical staff examined the social media personality, it was revealed that she was suffering from nicotine withdrawal. Staff informed Barker who quit cold turkey that abruptly stopping vape use could lead to withdrawals, even after just occasional use. Although it's unclear when exactly Barker was released, she would eventually take to TikTok informing fans that she wasn't able to celebrate her birthday on December 24 because she has "not been okay." "I've had the flu and I've not been okay on my birthday, I didn't even get to enjoy it because I was so sick, but I am back on my feet and I really wanna give you guys a Christmas haul," Barker told viewers. In better news, Barker has released the music video to her latest track "Vogue," which caught attention on social media featuring her step mother and father, Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker. Back in 2018, Alabama Barker released the track "Heartbreaker," where she sang a girl-friendly tune about bravely "letting go" of her relationship while her latest rap track portrays her tossing $100 bills into the camera alongside her stepmother, Kourtney. Michelle Buteau takes visceral aim at Dave Chappelle's controversial jokes regarding the transgender community in her new Netflix special, Michelle Buteau: A Buteau-ful Mind at Radio City Music Hall. The special, which debuted Tuesday on the ubiquitous streaming service, finds Buteau brutally calling out Chappelle while discussing comedians' responsibilities to their audience. In her set, Buteau shares a story about a "Black lesbian friend" that sparks a mix of reactions from the audience. From there, she uses the moment to address the importance of telling jokes without harming marginalized groups. After all, the possibility exists "to tell jokes and stories and not disparage a whole community," she says, emphasizing that comedy can be both impactful and respectful. And Buteau doesn't shy away from naming Chappelle directly, as Variety illustrated this week. In fact, she comically implores the audience members present to pass along her message to the comedian. "We just have to work at it, right?" Buteau quips, drawing both laughs and applause. "If you ever run into Dave Chappelle, can you let him know that s**t? I don't think he knows that s**t." Read more: Will Ferrell Dressed as Buddy the Elf Steals the Show at Los Angeles Kings Game In one particularly biting moment, Buteau sarcastically refers to Chappelle as the "GOAT" before clarifying her meaning instead of "Greatest of All Time," she says for him it means, "Going Off on Trans People." She continues, "I can't believe somebody would make millions and millions of dollars for making people feel unsafe. That is so wild to me, truly. I'm manifesting this s**t tonight. This is a Radio City Music Hall takeover, and I'm gonna tell everybody I wanna make millions and millions of dollars for making people feel safe, seen, secure, heard and entertained." Chappelle has faced backlash since his 2021 Netflix special The Closer included material focused on the trans community. Despite criticism, he doubled down on his views in his follow-up special, The Dreamer, refusing to back away from controversial material. Buteau's remarks highlight an ongoing debate about the role of comedy in addressing sensitive topics. Her comments add to the continuing conversation about how comedians can balance humor with responsibility in today's cultural climate. New York Police announced Tuesday they've identified the woman who died on Dec. 22 after being set on fire while inside a New York subway train as a 57-year-old from New Jersey. The woman, Debrina Kawam, had a Toms River, New Jersey, address, according to NYPD. Smoke rises as US launches airstrikes on military targets of Houthi rebels in Yemen U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles, the Central Command said. Lighthouse keepers at Mile Rock Lighthouse just off Lands End in San Francisco have a drink to celebrate the end of Prohibition in 1933. San Francisco History Center/San Francisco Public Library Imagine your wildest night in the Mission District or North Beach. Multiply it by about 20. Then imagine a scarcity of liquor so extreme that saloon owners are passing off embalming fluid as whiskey. Thats the foundation for the scene on Dec. 31, 1919, the last wet holiday in San Francisco before nearly 13 years of Prohibition started in the following weeks. The night, mostly forgotten in time, stands as perhaps the greatest evening of partying in the citys history. The Chronicles front page report the next day was so filled with rambling superlatives, its easy to imagine the unidentified journalist who authored the piece was still a little buzzed himself: Advertisement Article continues below this ad There has been many a wild night in San Francisco since the Forty-Niners hardy men who took their whiskey straight lighted the first candle and drew the first cork in revelry, but last night outshone them all. This year the desire to take part in the last wet New Years Eve brought out everybody in the city able to walk, and some who had to be carried. There were many reasons for San Franciscans to want to get hammered on the last day of 1919: It was 13 months after the end of World War I, and the first New Years Eve that many soldiers were home and families back together. Locals had endured two years of the so-called Spanish Flu, putting a damper on previous end-of-year celebrations. It was the dawn of the Roaring Twenties. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But the biggest reason by far was Prohibition, when the U.S. from 1920 to late 1933 prohibited the manufacturing, importation and sale of alcoholic beverages. The Chronicle front page from July 1, 1919, declaring Prohibitions arrival in San Francisco as saloon licenses were voided. The rules came in waves for San Franciscans. First, hard liquor was banned for manufacture and sale in July 1919, forcing saloons to dispense beer and wine with 2.5% alcohol by volume or less. Then, in late 1919, San Franciscans learned that their biggest alcohol consumption loophole permission to bring alcohol squirreled away before the ban into hotels and restaurants would end on Jan. 16, 1920. That made New Years Eve 1919 seem like the time to drink every drop of booze left in the city. New Years Eve in San Francisco promises to be one of the most hilarious in the citys history, the Chronicle reported days before the festivities. And everyone will bring his own fuel to the bonfire. Advertisement Article continues below this ad San Francisco was still a city of just over 500,000 citizens, and seemingly all of them had a reservation for dinner, drinking and dancing at a downtown hotel. The Palace Hotel opened its entire bottom floor, including the bar and lobby, to fit 3,000 guests (with 500 more on a waiting list). With no hard beverage service allowed, each guest had their BYO alcohol tagged like a coat check, resulting in tables overflowing with whiskey and wine. True, the state had been dry for six months, the Chronicle reported on Jan. 1, 2020. But out of the cellars, club lockers, bank vaults, safety deposit boxes and other hiding places came an array of beautiful sunshine and heirlooms that brought back the good old times when stacked upon the tables in the cafes and restaurants. Wielands Brewery operated in San Francisco for decades until new local and federal rules in 1919 and 1920 shut the operation down for 13 years. San Francisco History Center/San Francisco Public Library While the Chronicle reported New Years Eve parties continued to 5 a.m. then spilled out into the streets, there were few incidents or arrests among the revelers. The saloonkeepers were another story. Authorities reported some of the most posh bars illegally serving alcohol from dubious sources, including crude oil, denatured alcohol, formaldehyde, peppermint and embalming fluid. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Camouflaged as whiskey, it was really a nauseating conglomeration of alcohol, coloring matter and refuse, U.S. government investigator H.M. Roberts told the Chronicle on Jan. 1, 1920. Bootleggers are using anything that will put a kick in their stuff, and the man that will take chances on drinking it is a first-prize candidate for the asylum. After an alarmist first few weeks of 1920, Prohibition was a bit of an anticlimax in the city. San Franciscos reputation as the resistance to federal decree held firm. Much like our 1980s sanctuary city designation, 2004 marriage licenses to gay couples and early 21st century look-the-other-way approach to marijuana use, regulating liquor consumption became the absolute last priority of the San Francisco Police Department. In 1921, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors reprimanded two police captains for enforcing anti-drinking laws. Most hotels, including the St. Francis and Palace, became well-known speakeasies, hiding hard alcohol in the crawl spaces between floors. As historian Gary Kamiya wrote: Eliminating alcohol in hard-drinking San Francisco had about the same chance of success as persuading the Forty-Niners to abandon the diggings because greed was a sin. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trucks stocked with Italian Swiss Colony wines lined up in San Franciscos Civic Center in 1933 as Prohibition ended. This parade of crates loaded with Tipo Chianti promised free delivery to thirsty San Franciscans. California Historical Society On Dec. 5, 1933, when the 18th Amendment that codified Prohibition was lifted, a parade of wine trucks lined up outside City Hall to furnish Mayor Angelo Rossi with a drink. The change in laws allowed local beers, including Wielands and Anchor Steam, to resume production, and the Chronicle reported on celebrating winegrowers in Napa and Sonoma counties. Prohibition Has Ended, a Chronicle headline read. And Viniculture is Again an Honorable Calling. On Dec. 6, 1933, the Chronicle printed President Franklin D. Roosevelts entire proclamation on the front page: I trust in the good sense of the American people that they will not bring upon themselves the curse of excessive use of intoxicating liquors, to the detriment of health, morals and social integrity. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have reached a settlement in their divorce. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie reach divorce settlement Eight years after Angelina filed for divorce citing "irreconcilable differences", the former couple have finally come to an agreement on terms and both have signed off on it. Angelina's lawyer James Simon told PEOPLE: "More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over." Although the split was acrimonious, a source close to Jolie added: "She doesnt speak ill of [Pitt] publicly or privately. Shes been trying hard to be light after a dark time." Angelina, 49, filed for divorce from Brad, 61, in September 2016 after just two years of marriage. It came just days after a journey on a private plane in which Angelina claimed Brad was abusive to her and their six children but authorities did not charge him after investigating. Angelina and Brad later released a joint statement declaring that they would keep all divorce proceedings private for the sake of their children. They said: "The parties and their counsel have signed agreements to preserve the privacy rights of their children and family by keeping all court documents confidential and engaging a private judge to make any necessary legal decisions and to facilitate the expeditious resolution of any remaining issues. The parents are committed to act as a united front to effectuate recovery and reunification." The former couple share children Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, and twins Vivienne and Knox, now 16. They were declared legally single in 2019 but have battled over custody and legal issues over their French estate and winery, Chateau Miraval, since the split. Caprice and her husband need to make an appointment to get intimate. Ty Comfort and Caprice find it hard to get time for each other The 53-year-old model who has sons Jett and Jax, both 11, with spouse Ty Comfort admitted finding quality time as a couple can be difficult but she is hoping getting cosy at home during the festive season will help her and the businessman get closer. She told Closer magazine: Theres nothing better than a good romp while watching a Christmas movie! Im in a really good relationship and thats made a really big difference. We have screaming, demanding kids so its hard you have to make appointments. The blonde beauty recently shot her own festive film, A European Christmas, and had a great time with hunky co-star Philip Boyd. She said: The film has The Holiday vibes. Its so great and so is my co-star, Philip. Luckily, my husband didnt feel nervous with me having a hunky co-star. Ty stayed for the first eight days of filming and then he did a runner. He said, Im bored, Im out of here! It only took 14 days to film. We went to Serbia to film and then we drove two hours to Zlatibor, which is a nearby holiday resort. I fell madly in love with the place thats why I wanted to do a movie there. You have to have so much organisation to do these movies in such a short time I could do anything now. After enjoying A European Christmas, Caprice has been busy shooting another festive film in her own London home. She said: My house looks like Santas Wonderland at the moment as were shooting a scene for my new movie. Theres Christmas trees, garlands and lights everywhere. Ive got another hot co-star and one of my sons is making a cameo. Prince Harry has been urged to get back to the factory floor by Princess Dianas former butler. Paul Burrell had some advice for Prince Harry The 40-year-old royal and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, stepped back from royal duties almost five years ago and now live in California with children Prince Archie, five, and three-year-old Princess Lilibet. And while Paul Burrell wishes the pair luck in their various commercial endeavours, the former butler has urged the pair to use their platform and get involved with various charitable efforts in other countries, just as Harrys late mother Diana did. Asked about Harry and Meghan by Spin Genie, Paul said: Harry was once the most popular royal of all, he isn't any longer. They have drained the good will from the British people. They have to survive by themselves and by their own means. I wish them luck, I wish Harry luck with his polo programme, Meghan luck with her cooking adventures. Meghan will move into fashion no doubt, fashion and beauty have always been earmarked for her. She is a beautiful woman. I would like to see them use the platform they have to give back to countries who still dont have clean water, who still suffer from diseases which have been eradicated from the west. Theres a massive project for them if they want it I dont understand why they dont want to get their hands dirty. They seem to want to stay away from it. Harry, remember what your mother taught you, its always better to be on the factory floor than it is in the boardroom. Get back to the factory floor and do something with your profile and Meghans. That has to be the move forward for them. But Paul thinks it is sensible that the couple have rarely been in the UK since quitting royal duties. He said: We wont see Harry and Meghan in this country much. I think they understand they arent liked very much here, and I think its fair to say that. Their popularity is at an all time low and they should build their lives on a different continent. As theyre doing right now, keeping their projects apart, focusing on different projects, being sensible. However, the former Im A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! contestant warned there could be further shockwaves to come from Harry. He said: Harry has signed a three-book deal when he signed Spare. So he has two more books to come. Wait for it, because that will happen. Its a long upward battle for those two to keep their heads and necks above water. Paul was speaking on behalf of https://www.spingenie.com/ China will adjust import tariff rates and categories to stimulate domestic demand and enhance openness from January 1, 2025. Provisional tariffs below most-favoured-nation rates will apply to 935 commodities as part of the annual tariff adjustment plan, aiming to encourage imports of high-quality products, according to the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council. The tariff reduction is designed to nurture new high-quality productive forces through scientific and technological innovation, improve public well-being, and encourage green, low-carbon development, reported state-owned media citing the commission. From January 1, 2025, China will adjust import tariffs, applying provisional rates below most-favoured-nation levels to 935 commodities to boost high-quality imports. Zero-tariff treatment will continue for 43 least-developed countries. Under 24 trade agreements, tariffs will be reduced, including the China-Maldives deal, cutting nearly 96 per cent to zero. China will maintain zero-tariff treatment on all tariff lines in 2025 for 43 least developed countries with which it has diplomatic ties, aiming to support their development and promote mutual benefits, as per the report. In 2025, China will implement conventional tariff rates under 24 trade agreements with 34 countries or regions to expand its high-standard free trade network. The China-Maldives free trade agreement, effective from January 1, will reduce tariffs to zero on nearly 96 per cent of tariff lines between the two parties. China to adjust import tariffs in 2025, boosting high-quality imports Sharib Hashmi, known for his versatile acting, is also an avid traveller who approaches the world with curiosity and a deep appreciation for different cultures. While he describes himself as a heavy traveller, packing more than necessary for each trip, it's the joy of exploration and learning that truly drives him. Sharibs travel philosophy is simple yet profound: Explore the world is his mantra. For Sharib, travelling isnt just about visiting famous landmarks; its about connecting with the essence of a place, whether its through its food, traditions or the people who call it home. His travel wishlist includes some of Indias most stunning locales, from the lush greenery of Arunachal to the cultural richness of Rajasthan. He recently went on a vacation to Goa with his family for the first time and describes the fam jam in his own words: Goa, finally! Whenever Ive been to Goa for shoots, sightseeing was never on the agenda. Work always comes first, right? But this time, I had to make it right. Id been dying to visit Goa for ages and when I told my wife Nasreen about it, she was like, "You never take me anywhere!" So guess what? I made her dream come true. My son, Shayaan, was too busy with his 12th board exams, so it was just the three of us: me, Nasreen and our daughter Inaaya. Wed originally planned a big group trip with friends, but, surprise surprise, everyone bailed. So we ended up with the perfect family getaway. No complaints, though, Goas laid-back vibe was exactly what we needed. Leave it to the Girls They know about my procrastinating ways and hence the whole trip was coordinated by Nasreen and Inaaya. We flew out on August 15 for five days of sun, sea and shenanigans. We landed early in the morning and immediately hit up Martins for breakfast. Because when in Goa, breakfast is a celebration, not just a meal. We stayed in South Goa for two days at Club Mahindra, and then we moved to the Hilton in North Goa for some change of pace. On August 15th , the Club Mahindra staff asked me to hoist the tricolour. It was a touching moment. Getting special treatment is one of the perks of being a celeb and to be honest, Im enjoying it. Swimming, Sun and the lazing around Im not crazy about the ambience or the room size but I do need a swimming pool at every hotel. Were not about that "staying indoors" life. So, after breakfast, wed hit up the sights, grab some local dishes, and then crash by the beach. And yes, that meant plenty of photo ops at Calangute, Baga and Candolim beaches. My daughter had the time of her life clicking photos. We also did some exploring, hitting up places like Cabo de Rama Fort, Aguada Fort and Dudhsagar Falls. But you know what? The best part was just lounging on the beach with the family. Soak up the sun, sip on coconut waterrepeat. Even talking about it makes me want to go back. Lets talk about food, because Goa doesnt mess around when it comes to cuisine. I love sea food and the crab dishes, Goan fish curry and shrimp were something to die for. I cant even remember half the names of the dishes but I remember how they made me feel like I was in food heaven. We hit up famous spots like Brittos, Cape Goa, and Martins for all that deliciousness. And to my delight, the chef at our hotel surprised us with a South Indian spread. I love South Indian food, especially appams with chicken gravy. I can have them with sambar too or with vegetable stew but having them with chicken does wonders for my palate. The Cruise from Hell We had high hopes for a cruise one day. The driver promised it would be an unforgettable experience. But when we got on board, lets just say... it was far from royal. People were complaining about it being "mental torture," and honestly, we couldnt stop laughing. So, we left early and went back to the beach. Sometimes the best memories are made from the things that go totally wrong. Mountain vs Beaches Some people love mountains, some love beaches but I have a yen for both. I recently shot for The Family Man in Kohima, Nagaland, and the beauty of the place had me in awe. Then theres Mussoorie. I cant find words to describe the beauty of its hills? From Landour, you can even catch a glimpse of the Himalayan range early in the morning. But I cant forget Goa either. Theres just something about those beaches that makes me feel at home. Travel is Life Who doesnt love a good trip? For me, its the perfect way to recharge and bond with the family. I make sure to take at least one family trip a year. In fact, last year, we did a road trip to Kerala with my MTV gang. We drove through Karnataka, stayed in Mysore, Wayanad and ended up in Calicut. It was one looong drive but worth every mile. Train Travel = Childhood Vibes Lets talk trains for a second. Call me old school, but I love travelling by train. It takes me back to my childhood when wed travel to Delhi every summer by train to my maternal grandmother's house. The journey was like a mini adventure, with snacks at every stop. It was a dare to rush off to buy pedas, pakodas or ice cream at different stations. And 24-hour travel was just part of the fun. Sadly, you cant replicate that feeling these days, but hey, the memories are still gold. Uttarakhand, USA and the Trip of a Lifetime From the beaches of Goa to the hills of Uttarakhand, travelling with my family is always a blast. I took my family to Uttarakhand last year, travelling to Nainital and Rishikesh. Rishikesh has a special place in my heart, but Im obsessed with Nainital. Its where we went for our honeymoon. And then, in 2022, we made the ultimate trip to the US. My brother-in-law stays in Dallas and for almost a month we explored Dallas, LA, New York like wide-eyed tourists. Disneyland, Universal Studios, Times Squareevery conceivable destination got notched up. We wanted to watch a Broadway show but the ticket prices almost made me cry. Are you a light traveller or a heavy traveller? Im a heavy traveller. I always pack a lot and usually a bit extra. I enjoy the process of packing, and whenever I travel with my family, I always help with the packing. I thoroughly enjoy it. What travel advice would you like to give? Just get out of the house. Explore the world. The things you learn through travel cant be taught in any book. like to share? Although Im a heavy traveller, Id advise not to overpack. Travel light. Also, when you travel anywhere, avoid guides and instead take a local person with you. Locals often know hidden gems that guides wont show you. We often stick to tourist attractions found on Google, but a local will show you other places worth visiting. Best place to travel? Arunachal Pradesh, its a paradise in the North East. I love Rishikesh and Varanasi. I could spend an entire day near the ghats of Varanasi. The mornings there are truly special serene, with the sight of boats crossing the calm waters and the vast sky overhead. As they say, Subah Benaras ki aur shaam-e-Avadh, bahut achchhi hoti hai. Id heard it, but when I witnessed it, I realised how true it is. She said, "The best parties are the ones that end at Mannat. After we go to places - for example after Manish's (Malhotra) Diwali part - me, Suhana, Shah Rukh sir, Shanaya and Navya, we went back, sat and ate our burgers and discussed what happened through the night. And sometimes we continue dancing, just the few of us and those are the best parties. The after-after parties." Ananya Panday has grown up closely with Shah Rukh Khan's family and shares a close bond with his kids Suhana Khan and Aryan Khan. During a recent conversation on the show In The Ring With Filmfare, the actress was asked about the best parties she has attended at Mannat, SRK's residence in Mumbai. Ananya revealed that the best parties were the ones that end at Mannat. The film, directed by Kalees, features Keerthy as Meera, with her acting and dialogue delivery being widely appreciated. Reviews highlighted her performance as a standout, proving her potential in Hindi cinema. On the personal front, Keerthy recently got married to her longtime partner, Antony, in a traditional South Indian wedding in Goa. Antony, a businessman from Kochi with ventures in Dubai and Chennai, owns a chain of resorts. Photos and videos from their ceremony went viral, capturing widespread attention. Keerthy Suresh recently revealed that Samantha recommended her for the Hindi film Baby John, a remake of Atlees Tamil hit Theri (2016). In the original, Samantha played a key role, which Keerthy took over in the remake. Speaking to Galatta India, Keerthy expressed gratitude towards Samantha for believing in her ability to portray the character, despite her initial fear of stepping into the role.Keerthy shared that Samanthas support meant a lot to her, recalling a heartwarming Instagram story where Samantha praised her performance. Keerthy called Baby John a dream debut, adding that she was thrilled to play a character she truly loved. While the film itself hasnt impressed audiences widely, critics have lauded Keerthys performance, describing her as a talent to watch out for in Bollywood. This London home is one of several properties owned by SRK, including his famous Mumbai sea-facing residence, Mannat, and a villa called Jannat. He and his wife, Gauri, also own a mansion in DelhiShah Rukhs Alibaug retreat serves as a private getaway for family and friends, and his Los Angeles villa was once available for rent through a hosting platform.In 2009, SRK bought a 20 million apartment on Londons Park Lane, a record property purchase by a Bollywood star outside India. His children, Aryan and Suhana, were educated in the UK, while his youngest, AbRam, attends school in Mumbai. On the work front, SRK is set to star in King, which begins filming in January 2025. Liam Payne's untimely death earlier this year shocked the music industry and his fans. The former One Direction member fell out of his hotel window in Buenos Aires. Now, an Argentine judge has confirmed charges against five people and two of them have been charged for supplying him with drugs. The other three who have been charged with manslaughter include a businessman and two managers of the hotel. One of the two people has been ordered to be put under preventive prison. He was an employee of the hotel where Payne stayed. The second person who has been charged with supplying him with drugs was a waiter Payne met at a restaurant. December 31, 2024: China has much to fear from west Pacific nations South Korea and Japan combining their submarine fleets with the 25 or more U.S. Navy submarines based in the region. Japan has 22 and South Korea has 21. Some subs are laid up for repairs or upgrades, so the three navies have about sixty submarines available to block shipping from entering or leaving China. There are also some additional weapons. South Korea has become the seventh nation to use Sea Launched Ballistic Missiles or SLBMs. The second version of the KSS-III submarines featured a number of firsts. They were non-nuclear, the first non-nuclear ballistic missile submarines that not only use Air Independent Propulsion or AIP but do so using lithium ion instead of lead-acid batteries. With this AIP system the KSS-III submarines can operate submerged for about three weeks. These subs also have ten Vertical Launch Cells or VLS filled by Hyunmoo 4-4 SLBMs with a range of 800 kilometers. North Korea is developing similar technology, but the north can only manage to build crude imitations of what the South Korean created. South Korea is far wealthier and technically advanced than the north. Both Koreas produce weapons that work often enough to do some damage and kill people. The South Korean weapons do this more reliably and effectively. South Korea joins six other nations, the United States, Russia, France, Britain, China, and India that also have SLBMs and submarines to launch them from. The United States was the first nation to develop SLBMs and install them in nuclear powered submarines. The South Korean SLBMs have conventional warheads and are launched from non-nuclear submarines. South Korea is finally developing nuclear weapons, after not doing so for many years to appease the United States. China has been aware of this submarine threat for decades but only in the last few years have they improved their ASW/Anti-Submarine Warfare efforts. For over a decade China has had underwater passive sonar systems in its coastal waters. This enables China to monitor submarines operating off its coasts and, presumably, in the South China Sea. South Korea did the same in 2011 when it announced that it was installing underwater submarine sensors off its coasts and this was apparently completed in 2013. The South Korean effort was in response to North Korea using a small submarine to torpedo a South Korea patrol ship in 2010. China simply wants to keep foreign warships as far away as possible, even if it means trying to force them out of international waters. The Chinese navy expanded considerably since the 1990s, but little of the expansion involved ASW equipment for new ships or developing maritime patrol aircraft, China still maintains nearly a hundred small ASW vessels to patrol coastal waters. China has also been developing and putting into service maritime patrol aircraft like the KQ-200, which is similar to the American P-8. . Most of the new Chinese ships lack any ASW capability and that will take decades to rectify, including the time it will take to train Chinese crews to use ASW effectively. Western navies, especially the Americans, have a huge lead in this area. China has begun building a multi-sensor system for obtaining constant data on the precise location of surface and submarine vessels in the South China Sea. Surface surveillance would be carried out by a constellation of ten remote sensing satellites so that the South China Sea is under constant surveillance. Satellites at an altitude of 600 kilometers would be equipped with SAR/synthetic aperture radar and digital cameras. A typical SAR can produce photo quality images at different resolutions. A medium resolution of 3 meters covers an area 40 x 40 kilometers. Low resolution of 20 meters covers 100 x 100 kilometers. This takes care of surface ships, including diesel-electric subs when surfaced. Since 2010 China has been experimenting with such an array, using three satellites moving in formation over the western Pacific. China announced that the first South China Sea satellite will be launched in 2019 and all will be in orbit by 2025 Technical details were not revealed by China or South Korea, but this sort of thing is similar to the system of passive/just listen sonars the United States deployed on the sea bottom in key areas during the Cold War. SOSUS (SOund Surveillance System) consisted of several different networks. On the continental shelf areas bordering the North Atlantic was the CAESAR network. In the North Pacific there was COLOSSUS plus a few sensors in the Indian Ocean and a few other places that no one would talk about. The underwater passive sonars listened to everything and sent their data via cable to land stations. From there it was sent back to a central processing facility, often via satellite link. SOSUS was accurate enough to locate a submarine within a circle no wider than 100 kilometers. That's a large area, but depending on the quality of the contact, the circle might be reduced to ten kilometers. The major drawback of the system was that it did not cover deep water areas more than 500 kilometers from the edge of the continental shelf. This was not a problem for the South Korean or Chinese systems, as both only cover coastal waters or shallow offshore areas like the South China Sea. SOSUS systems are very expensive to maintain. SOSUS managed to survive the end of the Cold War by making its sensors available for civilian research and by using cheaper and more powerful electronic and communications technology. While many parts of the SOSUS have been shut down, additional portable SOSUS gear has been put in service, to be deployed as needed. South Korea had the advantage of being able to get help from the United States about SOSUS and how to collect and process the sound signatures of submarines operating in the area. The U.S. was also able to help South Korea obtain more sensitive passive sonar systems that can identify submarine location more accurately. The U.S. has been doing research in this area and knows that such cooperation would result in American access to the South Korean SOSUS. South Korea also has the design and manufacturing capability for this sort of device. The first South Korea SOSUS system was placed off the west coast, near the North Korean border. North Korean submarines, travelling underwater, using battery power and near the coast, are very hard to detect. The South Korean SOSUS helps even the odds. For China, preventing a submarine based blockade of Chinese ports is still a threat they have not developed an effective antidote for. All resolutions submitted to the Annual Shareholders' Meeting were approved. Nick SANDERS is appointed new Chairman of the Board. Andre Benhamou has joined the Board as board observer on behalf of the French State. Regulatory News: Latecoere (Paris:LAT): ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The 2024 Annual General Meeting of LATECOERE shareholders was held at the Company's registered office today and all resolutions submitted were approved. Detailed voting results are available on the Company's website: Regulated information Latecoere. GOVERNANCE UPDATES Subsequently to the Annual General Meeting, Latecoere's Board of Directors has met and has decided to appoint Nick Sanders as new Chairman of the Board in replacement of Thierry Mootz who remains director of the Company. Nick Sanders is an engineer by background who brings extensive aerospace industry experience. In particular he has deep knowledge of complex industrial turnarounds from prior management and board director roles. Nick began his career at Rolls Royce spending 13 years working on engine development and technical support. He then spent almost a decade at Lucas Aerospace where he was made Group VP Operations in 1996 and where he gained foundational experience of driving major turnaround programs. In 2002, he became CEO of CompAir, leading a buyout with Alchemy Partners. Under his leadership, the company turned a major loss into a profit within five years. He also served as interim CEO of Deloro Stellite (a Duke Street investment) before co-founding Better Capital. From 2010 to 2019, he served as Executive Chairman of Gardner Aerospace. He led its transformation from a company in distress to a growing and profitable business which became one of Airbus' top 8 detailed parts suppliers in 2018. Nick serves on the boards of Doncasters (aerospace and industrial), Elcogen plc (hydrogen fuel) and Walker Precision Ltd (defense). Nick is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of both the Institute of Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Aeronautical Society. Nick is a lifelong aerospace enthusiast and trustee of the Royal Air Force Museum. "I am delighted to joining the board of Latecoere as Chairman. I look forward to working with the board and management team to ensure that the business delivers for all stakeholders and realises its full potential," said Nick Sanders. Additionally, the Board of Directors has decided to replace Sam Marnick with June du Halgouet on its committees and to appoint June du Halgouet as Chairwoman of the Appointment and Compensation Committee. Finally, Andre Benhamou has joined the Board of Directors as board observer "Censeur" on behalf of the French State. Andre Benhamou has successively served as Technical Director, General Manager, and President of Liebherr Aerospace Toulouse, and later as General Manager of the Aeronautics and Transport Division of the Liebherr group. He has been Vice President and Board Member of the Aerospace Valley competitiveness cluster. Currently, Andre Benhamou is also the Chairman and CEO of IRDI Capital Croissance, an investment fund dedicated to SMEs in the Occitanie region, Honorary President of the TOMPASSE association, and a Board Member of the Cercle d'Oc. A graduate of ENSEA (Ecole Nationale Superieure de l'Electronique et de ses Applications) with a specialization in industrial and medical electronics, and holding a Advanced Studies Diploma (DEA) in information processing from the University of Orsay, he began his career as an expert in digital computers. Andre Benhamou is a key figure in the economic and industrial development of Occitanie and provides valuable and expert analysis in his role as board observer. Latecoere Board Committees Audit, Risks and ESG Committee Chairwoman: Laurence Dors, independent director Members: Thomas De Canniere and June du Halgouet Appointment and Compensation Committee Chairwoman: June du Halgouet Members: Thomas De Canniere and Christophe Villemin About Latecoere Tier 1 to the world's leading OEMs (Airbus, BAE Systems, Boeing, Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Honda Aircraft Company, Lockheed Martin, RTX, Thales), Latecoere serves aerospace with innovative solutions for a sustainable world. The Group operates in all segments of the aerospace industry (commercial, regional, business, defense and space) in three business areas: Aerostructures Europe and Americas: doors, fuselage, wings and empennage, rods; Interconnection Systems: wiring, avionic racks, on-board systems; Special Products and Services: customer services, on-board equipment, electronic systems. As of December 31, 2023, the Group employed 5,497 people in 14 countries. Latecoere is listed on Euronext Paris Compartment B, ISIN Code: FR001400JY13 Reuters: AEP.PA Bloomberg: AT.FP View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241230127870/en/ Contacts: Media Relations Thierry Mahe +33 (0)6 60 69 63 85 LatecoereGroupCommunication@latecoere.aero Investor Relations mandataires-ag-latecoere@latecoere.aero Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 30, 2024) - Permex Petroleum Corporation (CSE: OIL) (FSE: 75P) ("Permex" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") has approved the appointment of BaShara (Bo) Crystelle Boyd to serve on the Board effective December 23rd, 2024. In addition, the Company has confirmed Richard Little as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board. "Permex is very fortunate to have Richard leading our Board of Directors. His experience as the Chief Executive of both private and public oil and gas exploration companies is very valuable to our organization and to myself as Permex's CEO," said Brad Taillon, Permex's President and Chief Executive. "His first hand experience of our Company's specific assets in the Midland Basin is a big advantage and he is very familiar with the strategic opportunities that lay ahead of Permex as he has gone down similar roads before." Mr. Little is the current CEO of private operator, Fury Resources. Before Fury Resources, Mr. Little was the CEO of public operator Battalion Oil Company (NYSE American: BATL). He possesses more than a quarter century of industry experience, and has led successful ventures, including a $1.24B asset sale at Ajax Resources, LLC. His career journey spans roles such as VP of EP Energy's Southern Division and leadership positions at El Paso Exploration and Production. Mr. Little holds a Petroleum Engineering degree from Texas A&M, is a licensed engineer (inactive), and is engaged with industry organizations like SPE, API, and IPAA. Ms. Boyd is a partner at Walker Eisenbraun, LLC., a corporate law firm located in Houston, Texas. Her practice covers an array of complex corporate, transactional, and governance matters, predominantly for clients in the energy sector. Ms. Boyd brings to the Board over twenty-five years of legal experience, having also worked as a corporate and securities lawyer at a national law firm, and as general counsel, senior vice president, and corporate secretary of the then largest publicly traded, independent oil and gas producer in the Gulf of Mexico, where she had sole responsibility for managing all of the company's legal affairs. Richard Little, Permex's Chairman stated, "We are excited to welcome Bo to our Board of Directors. We are looking forward to working together as I believe her experience and expertise compliments the rest of the Board's skill set very well. I feel like we are now well positioned to help Permex evolve through its next phase of strategic growth." "We are extremely pleased to have Bo join the team here at Permex. Her expertise in corporate securities and as in-house counsel for large public oil and gas operators are invaluable assets for Permex," stated Brad Taillon, President and CEO. "Ms. Boyd is an industry veteran that has an immensely valuable skill set and perspective that will certainly contribute notably to the strategic direction of Permex Petroleum as we prepare Permex for an exciting year in 2025 and beyond." About Permex Petroleum Corporation Permex Petroleum (CSE: OIL) (FSE: 75P) is a uniquely positioned junior oil & gas company with assets and operations across the Permian Basin. The Company focuses on combining its low-cost development of Held by Production assets for sustainable growth with its current and future Blue-Sky projects for scale growth. The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Permex Petroleum US Corporation, is a licensed operator in both states, and owns and operates on private, state and federal land. For more information, please visit www.permexpetroleum.com. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada and the United States and it is intended that this press release is to be covered by the safe harbors created by those laws. "Forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" each include statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements each include, without limitation, information regarding the Company's strategic growth and prospects in 2025 and beyond. Neither forward-looking information nor forward-looking statements are a guarantee of future performance and are each based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management at the date the statements made. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement or any forward-looking information that is included herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235517 SOURCE: Permex Petroleum Corporation TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / December 30, 2024 / Volatus Aerospace Inc. (TSXV:FLT)(OTCQX:TAKOF)(Frankfurt:A3DP5Y/ABBA.F) ("Volatus" or the "Company") has, in line with TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) guidelines and Volatus Aerospace's commitment to long-term growth, successfully converted $145,545 in preferred shares into common shares. This move, part of the original terms for the acquisition of UAViation Aerial Solutions Ltd in 2020, simplifies the Company's capital structure and enhances shareholder value. A total of 666,667 common shares were issued at a price of $0.12 per share, effectively creating value of $80,000. This results in an adjusted issue price of $0.22 per share, generating a profit of $65,545. This move reflects the Company's commitment to creating shareholder value and ensuring a robust financial foundation for future growth. Additionally, in support of its commitment to aligning employee incentives with long-term shareholder value, Volatus Aerospace has issued a total of 7,609,000 stock options and Restricted Share Units (RSUs) to 109 employees under its approved stock option and RSU plans, with grants vesting over a period of up to 4 years. Reflecting the Company's prioritization of cost savings, CEO Glen Lynch has voluntarily chosen to forgo participation in the incentive program, allowing the benefits to extend across the organization. He continues to demonstrate his confidence in the Company's long-term success as a significant equity holder. "These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to our employees, who bring extensive expertise in aviation, business, and engineering to drive our success," said Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace. "By aligning employee incentives with our strategic objectives, we ensure the continued delivery of innovative aerial solutions while fostering long-term shareholder value. We remain disciplined in our financial approach and focused on executing our growth strategy to benefit all stakeholders." About Volatus Aerospace Volatus Aerospace is a leader in innovative global aerial solutions for intelligence and cargo. With a strong foundation of over 100 years of combined institutional knowledge in aviation, Volatus provides comprehensive solutions using both piloted and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS). We serve industries such as oil and gas, utilities, healthcare, and public safety. Our mission is to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability through cutting-edge, real-world solutions. Forward-Looking Information This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Often, but not always, forward-looking information and forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" (or other variations of the foregoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking information includes information regarding: (i) the anticipated benefits of, and estimated revenue to be generated by, the master service agreement; (ii) the business plans and expectations of the Company; and (iii) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking information is based on currently available competitive, financial, and economic data and operating plans, strategies, or beliefs of management as of the date of this news release, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors may be based on information currently available to the Company, including information obtained from third-party industry analysts and other third-party sources, and are based on management's current expectations or beliefs. Any and all forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to it and on assumptions it believes to be not unreasonable in light of all of the circumstances. In some instances, material factors or assumptions are discussed in this news release in connection with statements containing forward-looking information. Such material factors and assumptions include, but are not limited to: the anticipated benefits and revenues of the master service agreement to the Company; the commercialization of drone flights beyond visual line of sight and potential benefits to the Company; meeting the continued listing requirements of the TSXV; and including, but not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company's Annual Information Form under the section "Risk Factors". Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and, other than as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. TSXV:FLT Media Contact Danielle Gagne Head of Marketing and Communications, Volatus Aerospace +1 833-865-2887 Danielle.gagne@volatusaerospace.com SOURCE: Volatus Aerospace Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - December 30, 2024) - TrustBIX Inc. (TSXV: TBIX) ("TrustBIX" or the "Company") announces the closing of the second and final tranche (the "Final Tranche") of its non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement"), previously announced on November 13, 2024 and December 5, 2024. Under the Final Tranche, the Company issued 1,550,000 common shares of the Company ("Common Shares") at a price of $0.02 per Common Share for gross proceeds of $31,000, subject to final acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). Pursuant to the Private Placement the Company has issued an aggregate of 4,340,000 Common Shares at a price of $0.02 per Common Share for gross proceeds of $86,800. The Company conducted the Private Placement under various prospectus exemptions ("Exemptions") in accordance with National Instrument 45-106, Prospectus Exemptions. A director and an officer of the Company participated in the private placement; they acquired an aggregate total of 640,000 Common Shares for $12,800. The participation of these insiders in the private placement constitutes a Related Party Transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The board of directors of the Company determined that the transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 for the related party transaction, as neither the fair market value of securities issued to the insiders nor the consideration paid by the insiders exceeded 25 percent of the Company's market capitalization. The securities issued under the Private Placement are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period from the time of closing of the Private Placement. No finder's fees or other compensation was paid in connection with the Private Placement As the financing is below $0.05, the Company is relying on the minimum pricing exemption provided by the Exchange and is providing a brief description on the use of proceeds being raised. The proceeds will be used for ongoing working capital. About TrustBIX (TSXV: TBIX) TrustBIX is an agricultural technology company providing Gate to Plate solutions to create a world where we trust more, waste less, and reward sustainable practices. Our award-winning technologies offer practical tools trusted by local and international agri-food organizations. www.TrustBIX.com Forward-Looking Information This press release contains certain forward-looking information and reflects the Company's present assumptions regarding future events. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, levels of activity, performance, and/or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. When used in this document, the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "propose", "anticipate", "believe", "forecast", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions used by any of the Company's management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Company's internal projections, expectations, future growth, performance and business prospects and opportunities and are based on information currently available to the Company. Since they relate to the Company's current views with respect to future events, they are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments except as required by applicable securities legislation, regulations or policies. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235563 SOURCE: TrustBIX Inc. Firepower is a multifunction tool in combat. For example, during the 1999 Chechnya War in the Caucasus Russian troops used firepower intensive tactics to take Chechen capital of Grozny. The Chechens were fighting from trenches and the rubble of buildings. Chechen tactics emphasized mobility, especially at night. But the Russians had learned to set up tight security at night and then use their firepower effectively to pound any Chechen fighters that resisted. Progress was slow, with progress measured in hundreds of meters. Before darkness falls, the Russians have to set up defensive positions, for the Chechens still owned the night. The Chechen war dragged on for a year before Russia turned to one of the most powerful pro-Russian Chechen warlords and told him he could run Chechnya any way he wanted. Russia supplied cash and supplies and the warlord supplied peace. Islamic terrorists Counter-terrorism commanders on the spot are in a no-win situation. If they do not order using firepower to keep civilians and enemy infiltrators away from your troops, then he has to suffer losses when the enemy infiltrators get behind friendly lines and begin ambushing American troops. This use of civilians, illegal according to the laws of war, was promoted by political and religious zealots throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. It wasnt just the Americans who faced this problem and the solution adopted was to shoot back at the gunmen hiding among the civilians. The civilians hit the ground or flee, then the two antagonists completed their battle without civilians in the way. Israel and EBO There was a big debate in Israeli military circles as to exactly what happened in the 2006 war in Lebanon. The Israeli military claimed they were conducting EBO effects-based operations. EBO means planning, executing and assessing operations to attain the effects required to achieve desired national security objectives. Many Israeli generals and politicians believed the military were just doing business as usual in 2006. That meant just using firepower to crush the enemy. The enemy, Hezbollah, was expecting that, and was deployed to survive the firepower, and inflict casualties on the Israelis. Hezbollah knew it could declare a victory to its Arab supporters if they avoided being destroyed. But Hezbollah leaders believed they could do more than just survive. They didn't. but just surviving a direct confrontation with the Israeli military was a big deal. Many Israelis question whether EBO actually has any validity at all. That misses the point. With EBO, it's garbage in, garbage out. If you don't ask the right questions, EBO won't help you. Most Israelis understand that they certainly didn't think out the PR aspects of their 2006 operations very carefully. Usually, the Israelis are able to get inside the heads of their Arab opponents. But not in 2006 with Hezbollah. The results of this debate were classified, only to be revealed the next time there is a war with Hezbollah. That happened in 2024 when Israeli forces destroyed Hezbollah. World War II When telephones and radio got their first workout during the 1914-18 World War I, more thoughtful military men noticed how these new electronic gadgets allowed information to travel a lot faster across the chaos of the modern battlefield. But all this was theoretical, because telephone lines were often cut on the World War I battlefields, and the radios of the day weren't very portable. By the time 1939-45 World War II came along, there were a lot of portable radios. Even before that, in the 1930s, American artillery officers figured out a way to get a radio or telephone message from, anywhere along miles of front line, from someone wanting a lot of firepower applied to one target and within an hour, have the fire from hundreds of artillery guns hitting that target. This 1940s era marvel scared the hell out of the Germans but required a lot of work. There were no computers to do all the calculations required and the artillery spotter up front could make a fatal error when reporting the position of the target. The Sniper Revolution This led to wider use of snipers in 21st Century wars U.S. troops were involved in. About ten percent of American troops were qualified and equipped for this kind of shooting. Snipers alone have greatly changed American infantry tactics. Using night vision scopes, small UAVs, and personal radios for every soldier, American infantry battalions can quickly deploy a dozen or more two-man sniper teams that will turn a large area into a deathtrap for enemy forces. Snipers are backed by infantry that fire much more accurately than their counterparts in World War II did. At the same time, massed artillery fire is a thing of the past. Many American artillery battalions have been disbanded. U.S. artillery units now use a lot fewer, but much more precise, shells and rockets. For example, the GPS guided MLRS rocket has been in use for several years now. This 227mm weapon delivers a 100 kg warhead as accurately as a 227 kg JDAM GPS guided bomb. When it comes to bombs, smaller and more accurate is what the infantry prefer. That's because, once the bomb goes off, the grunts want to get in there and capture or kill the survivors before the shell shock wears off. The blast radius of larger 227 and 505 kg aerial bombs, especially unguided ones, means friendly troops have to stay several hundred meters away. Thus the ideal weapon would be GPS guided shells. Soon American 155mm artillery units were using GPS equipped Excalibur shells. Infantry commanders are particularly fond of this 45 kg shell, as it allowed their troops to be as close as across the street from the target. This produces another unique battlefield sound portrait. You know American troops are at work when one shell goes off, followed by a few shots. Much less shouting and booming. American troops use individual radios, hand signals, and night vision equipment. They move fast, using minimal firepower, which means less risk of friendly fire or civilian casualties or property damage. Battlefields have never sounded this quiet. Because less fire power means a quieter battlefield, that enables better trained troops, who know what to listen for, more opportunities to use their ears to sort out what is going on. Silence can be a weapon. Precision weapons also reduce resupply problems, especially closer to the battle zone. Less wear and tear on the weapons as well. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 30, 2024) - Eureka Lithium Corp. (CSE: ERKA) (OTCQB: SCMCF) (FSE: S580) ("Eureka Lithium" or "Eureka" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") of 682,000 flow-through common shares of the Company ("Flow-Through Shares") at a price of $0.22 per Flow-Through Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $150,040. The Flow-Through Shares are intended to qualify as "flow through shares" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act"). The gross proceeds from the issuance of the Flow-Through Shares will be used to incur "Canadian exploration expenses" as such term is defined in the Tax Act, which the Company intends to renounce to the subscribers pursuant to the Tax Act. In connection with closing of the Private Placement, the Company paid cash finder's fees in the aggregate of $9,002.40 and issued a total of 40,920 finder's warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant"). Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company (each a "Common Share") at an exercise price of $0.22 until December 27, 2026. The Flow-Through Shares, including all underlying securities thereof, will have a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issue. The Company also announces that it has closed a concurrent non-flow-through private placement (the "Non-Flow Through Private Placement") of 100,000 units of the Company (each a "Unit") at a price of $0.15 per Unit . Each Unit consists of one (1) Common Share and one (1) Common Share purchase warrant (each a "Warrant"), with each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.205 for a period of 24 months. The Units issued under the Non-Flow Through Private Placement were sold to purchasers pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions. The securities issued in connection with the Non-Flow Through Private Placement will not be subject to resale restrictions in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or available exemptions from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States, or in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Corporate Video To view a new Eureka Lithium corporate video, visit www.EurekaLithiumCorp.com (https://eurekalithiumcorp.com) or the following URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Vvm0zfNFp4 Corporate Presentation Visit the Eureka Lithium homepage or click on the following URL to view the Company's Corporate Presentation: https://eurekalithiumcorp.com/EurekaLithium_Q3_2023.pdf About Eureka Lithium Corp. Eureka Lithium is the largest lithium-focused landowner in the northern third of Quebec, known as the Nunavik region, with 100% ownership of three projects comprising 1,408 sq. km in the emerging Raglan West, Raglan South and New Leaf Lithium Camps. These claims were acquired from legendary prospector Shawn Ryan and are located in a region that hosts two operating nickel mines with deep-sea port access. For more information please contact: Cautionary Statement Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, statements contained within the Corporate Video and Corporate Presentation, and the use of proceeds from the Private Placement, are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's expectations and are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, nor that the Private Placement will be completed as contemplated, or at all. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235605 SOURCE: Eureka Lithium Corp. HALIFAX, NS / ACCESSWIRE / December 30, 2024 / MedMira Inc. (MedMira) (TSXV:MIR), reported today on its financial results for the quarter ended October 31, 2024. Corporate update During Q1 FY2025, MedMira has been continuing its regulatory work and clinical trials for its Reveal G4 HIV-1/2 rapid test CLIA-waiver and with it made substantial progress on its FDA application. At the same time, the Company achieved a number of regulatory milestones in the Canadian market, such as the subsequent to Q1 FY2025, Health Canada approval of MedMira's Multiplo Rapid TP/HIV Test (Multiplo TP/HIV). Major milestones During Q1 FY2025, the Company continued its regulatory work on MedMira's product lines in Canada, due the significant changes in the Canadian markets focus on high quality, rapid and cost-effective testing alternatives. In Q1 FY2025, MedMira in partnership with REACH Nexus at St. Michael's Hospital's MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, received the full funding for the clinical trials from the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR) for its Multiplo Complete Syphilis (TP/nTP) Antibody Test (MultiploTP/nTP). This grant was received in response to Health Minister Mark Holland 's announcement to fight the growing syphilis pandemic in North America. The Company was able to complete its pre-clinical work within a faster than anticipated time frame and subsequently to Q1 FY2025, received the ITA (investigational testing authorization) from Health Canada and with it, is able to commence its main clinical trials. On the 24th of December 2025, MedMira received the Medical Device License for its Multiplo TP/HIV for professional use. As a result, the Company is able to offer its products in the Canadian market and will launch its product in January 2025. MedMira has establish a network of distribution partners with an existing clientele such as laboratories, hospitals. Given the substantial demand for affordable and high-quality testing solutions, the Company anticipates a higher-than-expected revenue growth in the Canadian market over the coming financial quarters. In respect to the clinical data achieved and the high demand for this product, the Company is currently expanding its application to non-professional healthcare users to reach markets and customers beyond the traditional healthcare setting. Furthermore, with the received regulatory approval of the Multiplo TP HIV, the Company expects an immediate regulatory license for its Reveal TP (Syphilis) Antibody Test and its Reveal G4 HIV-1/2 Antibody Test. With this step, MedMira is able to offer a flexible product portfolio for its clients and partners. This is an essential step to gain a larger footprint in the market and allow specific healthcare professional to focus on their respective field. In Q1 FY2025, the Company has made significant progress with its clinical trials in the United States for the US FDA CLIA-waiver of its FDA approved Reveal G4 HIV-1/2 rapid test. As a result of the important progress with the clinical trials, the Company recorded higher expenses in its General and Administrative Costs. This increase in costs is in direct relation to the positive progress made with the clinical trials and have been an expected investment by the Company to gain access to the CLIA-waiver HIV rapid testing market. MedMira will provide a more detailed update on the next steps within January 2025. Profit and Loss Highlights Revenue: The Company recorded revenues in Q1 FY2025 of $61,723 compared to $117,862 in the same period last year. Gross Profit: The Company recorded a gross profit in Q1 FY2025 of $52,778 compared to $70,633 in Q1 FY2024. Operating expenses: The Company recorded for this quarter operating expenses of $1,111,283 compared to $668,729 in Q1 FY2024. Net (loss) income: The Company recorded a net loss of $1,300,549 compared to a loss of $780,360 for the same period last year. Balance Sheet Highlights Assets: The Company recorded a decrease of its assets by $1,077,534 between Q4 FY2024 and Q1 FY2025 which was mainly due cash used to fund operations. Liabilities: The Company's liabilities increased by $223,015 between Q4 FY2024 and Q1 FY2025. The Company's current liabilities increased by $399,180 or 2% was mainly due to loans becoming due in the next twelve months. Loans in default increased by $154,190 or less than 3% compared to last quarter. All other long and short terms debts are currently under negotiation to restructure terms and conditions of repayment. Working Capital deficit: As a result of the changes noted above, the Company recorded a higher working capital deficit of $1,398,803 or 8% compared to last quarter. The Company's financial statements and management's discussion and analysis are available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . For matters of going concern, reference is made to the Auditor's Emphasis of Matter statement in the fiscal year ended 2023 Auditors Report and note 2b in the audited financial statements which are also available on SEDAR. About MedMira MedMira is the developer and owner of Rapid Vertical Flow (RVF) Technology. The Company's rapid test applications built on RVF Technology provide hospitals, labs, clinics and individuals with instant diagnosis for diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C in just three easy steps. The Company's tests are sold under the Reveal, Multiplo and Miriad brands in global markets. MedMira's corporate offices and manufacturing facilities are located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and the Company has a sales and customer service office located in the United States. For more information visit medmira.com . Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn . This news release contains forward-looking statements, which involve risk and uncertainties and reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events including statements regarding possible approval and launch of new products, future growth, and new business opportunities. Actual events could materially differ from those projected herein and depend on a number of factors including, but not limited to, changing market conditions, successful and timely completion of clinical studies, uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process, establishment of corporate alliances and other risks detailed from time to time in the company quarterly filings. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. MedMira Contacts: Markus Meile, CFO Tel: 902-450-1588 Email: ir@medmira.com SOURCE: MedMira, Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com EQS Newswire / 31/12/2024 / 04:15 CET/CEST BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 31 December 2024 - CGTN publishes an article on a special interactive page named "Chinese Modernization, People's Well-being Matters Most," which details China's modernization drive and high-quality development in various areas in 2024 through visual effects and in-depth stories. The article summarized Chinese President Xi Jinping's domestic tour in 2024, and highlighted his care for improving people's well-being in various areas and promoting high-quality development, stressing that "the people's well-being matters the most in Chinese modernization." As 2025 draws near, China's consumption has shown signs of revitalization as various regions and departments have enhanced the supply in the country's consumption market. Official data showed that the country's popularity index for offline consumption increased by five percent year on year, and the popularity index of services showed a year-on-year jump of 10.6 percent. The boom in consumption highlights the improvement of people's livelihoods. "As far as Chinese modernization is concerned, the people's well-being matters the most," Chinese President Xi Jinping said while inspecting Chongqing Municipality in April. During Xi's domestic tours in 2024, "people" was one of the most frequently mentioned keywords, according to an analysis by CGTN, joined in the top 10 by others such as "development," "modernization," "economy," and "ecology," underscoring the direction and key elements of China's path to modernization. "Chinese Modernization, People's Well-being Matters Most," a special interactive page launched by CGTN, details China's modernization drive and high-quality development in various areas in 2024 through visual effects and in-depth stories. People's well-being matters most Xi has often stressed that every issue that affects the people, big or small, deserves the utmost care and attention. During his inspection tours around China this year, he visited ordinary people to learn about their lives, from their incomes and housing to healthcare, education, and elderly care services. "The Communist Party of China (CPC) is dedicated to serving the people, and the well-being of the people of all ethnic groups and every household is my concern," Xi said while visiting a multi-ethnic residential community in Yinchuan, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in June. According to China's Ministry of Finance, 70 percent of the government's expenditure in 2024 has gone toward ensuring the people's well-being. The country has raised its expenditure in the national general public budget to about 28.55 trillion yuan ($3.91 trillion) this year, up 4 percent from the previous year, with projected budgets for education, social insurance and employment each surpassing 4 trillion yuan in 2024. A bumper harvest Grain security and rural revitalization have also been high on Xi's agenda in 2024. He has frequently visited the countryside during his inspection tours, engaging with workers in fields, greenhouses and orchards and asking in-depth questions about various aspects of rural and agricultural life, from crop production to incomes. When visiting a village in Hunan Province in March, Xi inspected preparations for spring farming. He emphasized that, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, China must secure its own grain supply. The latest National Bureau of Statistics of China data showed that in 2024 the country's total grain output exceeded 706 million tonnes, an increase of 1.6 percent over the previous year, hitting a new record high. This year's bumper harvest was accompanied by a rise in grain planting areas in the country, which stood at over 119 million hectares, up 0.3 percent year on year. Additionally, grain output per unit area increased by 1.3 percent, the data showed. In another positive development, China's food security law, aimed at ensuring the supply of grain and related products, took effect in June. Accelerating rural revitalization Since China's elimination of absolute poverty in 2021, the country's focus on rural work has shifted to rural revitalization. Xi has stressed that to advance Chinese modernization, efforts must be made to accelerate rural revitalization. China has identified 160 major counties for national rural revitalization assistance and allocated over 177 billion yuan in subsidies to support their development in 2024. In the first three quarters of this year, the per capita disposable income of rural residents reached 16,740 yuan, a real-term annual increase of 6.3 percent. Meanwhile, the central government allocated development funds of 7.4 billion yuan to improve production and living conditions in ethnic minority dominant villages and to protect and develop such villages. The country has also launched monitoring and support mechanisms to prevent once-poor populations from falling back into poverty. Work-relief programs to boost employment were also implemented this year. As of the end of October, the total scale of employment for poverty-stricken people in China had reached 33.079 million, exceeding the annual target by 2.888 million, providing strong support for consolidating and building on the achievements of poverty alleviation. For more information, please click: https://news.cgtn.com/event/2024/China2024/index.html Hashtag: CGTN The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. News Source: CGTN 31/12/2024 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Media archive at www.todayir.com Progress on share buyback programme ING announced today that, as part of our 2.0 billion share buyback programme announced on 31 October 2024, in total 3,163,956 shares were repurchased during the week of 23 December 2024 up to and including 27 December 2024. The shares were repurchased at an average price of 14.85 or a total amount of 46,987,104.63. For detailed information on the daily repurchased shares, individual share purchase transactions and weekly reports, see the ING website at www.ing.com/investorrelations. In line with the purpose of the programme to reduce the share capital of ING, the total number of shares repurchased under this programme to date is 48,430,773 ordinary shares at an average price of 14.97 for a total consideration of 724,796,329.16. To date approximately 36.24% of the maximum total value of the share buyback programme has been completed. Note for editors For more on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroomor via X @ING_newsfeed. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr. Press enquiries Investor enquiries Christoph Linke ING Group Investor Relations +31 20 576 5000 +31 20 576 6396 Christoph.Linke@ing.com (mailto:Christoph.Linke@ing.com) Investor.Relations@ing.com (mailto:Investor.Relations@ing.com) ING PROFILE ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank's more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 40 countries. ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N). ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING's ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as 'AA' in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of December 2023, in Sustainalytics' view, ING's management of ESG material risk is 'Strong'. Our current ESG Risk Rating, is 17.2 (Low Risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell. Society is transitioning to a low-carbon economy. So are our clients, and so is ING. We finance a lot of sustainable activities, but we still finance more that's not. Follow our progress on ing.com/climate. Important legal information Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 ('Market Abuse Regulation'). ING Group's annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union ('IFRS- EU'). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2023 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding. Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to di?er materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may di?er materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information. Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission ('SEC') reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are "green" or "sustainable." Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security. This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. ING does not make any representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of, or take any responsibility for, any information found at any websites operated by third parties. ING specifically disclaims any liability with respect to any information found at websites operated by third parties. ING cannot guarantee that websites operated by third parties remain available following the publication of this document, or that any information found at such websites will not change following the filing of this document. Many of those factors are beyond ING's control. Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of ING speak only as of the date they are made, and ING assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or for any other reason. This document does not constitute an o?er to sell, or a solicitation of an o?er to purchase, any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction. Attachment La Defense, 31st December 2024 INDIGO Infra announces it has completed the acquisition of all the shares and shareholders' loans in Smovengo as well as the acquisition of the business assets for supplying Smovengo with the solutions and equipment necessary for the "Velib'" self-service bikes INDIGO Infra, a subsidiary of INDIGO Group, world expert in parking solutions and urban mobility, which previously held 40% of Smovengo's share capital, announces it has finalized the acquisition of all the shares and shareholders' loans in Smovengo from its co-shareholders Mobivia, Fifteen and Marfina as well as the acquisition from Fifteen of the business assets related to the solutions and equipment necessary to the "Velib'" self-service bikes. Moreover, in the context of Smovengo's capital restructuring, INDIGO Infra has written off its shareholders' loans (fully depreciated in INDIGO Group's consolidated financial statements as of 31 December 2023). INDIGO Infra will also proceed with the incorporation to the capital of Smovengo of all, or part of the shareholders' loan acquired, followed by a capital reduction. Since 2018, Smovengo operates the "Velib'" self-service bikes on behalf of the Syndicat Autolib' Velib' Metropole (now Agence Metropolitaine des Mobilites Partagees), covering the City of Paris and 65 municipalities of the Greater Paris Metropolitan Area, until 2032. With 20,000 bikes, almost 48 million journeys and more than 150 million kilometers travelled in 2023, Smovengo is the operator of the world's largest docked bicycle sharing contract and a key player in low-carbon mobility. This combined operation enables INDIGO Infra to hold 100% of Smovengo's capital and to strengthen Smovengo on the control over its entire value chain. Case Cassiopea and Advant Altana acted as financial and legal advisors, respectively. EY, Stephane Chaouat & Associes, and Vaughan Avocats also assisted INDIGO Infra with financial, tax, and social matters. ********** INDIGO Group Analyst / Investor contact: Press contact: Mathieu Barnavon Bruno Tallent ir@group-indigo.com bruno.tallent@group-indigo.com About INDIGO Group S.A. The INDIGO Group, which owns nearly 100% of INDIGO Infra, Indigo Neo and INDIGOweel, is a global player in parking and urban mobility, managing more than 1.4 million parking spaces and their associated services in 10 countries. INDIGO Group is indirectly 49.3% owned by Credit Agricole Assurances, 34.4% owned by Vauban Infrastructure Partners and 14.9% owned by MR Infrastructure Investment GmbH (MEAG), and held 0.2% of its own shares in treasury, with the Group's management owning the remainder of the shares. www.group-indigo.com Notice The information contained herein has been included in good faith but is intended for general information purposes only. All reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure that the information contained herein is not false or misleading. It should not be relied upon for any specific purpose and no representation or warranty is made as to its accuracy or completeness. This press release should be read in conjunction with the information about INDIGO Group S.A. (the "Company") published on its website at www.group-indigo.com. This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for, any securities. Its preparation does not constitute a recommendation regarding securities. Nothing in this document may be used as the basis for entering into a contract or agreement. This document may contain objectives and forward-looking statements concerning the Company's financial condition, results of operations, business activities and expansion strategy. Although based on reasonable assumptions, these objectives and statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including factors not presently known to the Company or that it does not currently consider material, and there can be no assurance that the anticipated events will occur or that the stated objectives will be achieved. All forward-looking statements are the current expectations of the Company's management regarding future events and are subject to several factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. The information is current only as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Additional information about the factors and risks that could affect the Company's financial results is included in the documents filed by the Group with the Autorite des Marches Financiers and available on its website at www.group-indigo.com. Neither the Company nor any of its affiliates, officers or employees shall be liable for any loss, damage or expense arising out of access to or use of this document, including, without limitation, any lost profits, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss. No part of this document may be sold or distributed for commercial purposes or modified. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: yWlwaMltZWvGmXJpYp5mnJJla22WmZOWl5KYnGRuaJ6WbZ2Sl2hmmJvLZnFqmGZv - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-89319-20241231-press-release.pdf SHANGHAI, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "SPIC Tour for Ambassadors to China" was successfully held in Shanghai recently. During the tour, diplomatic envoys from Guinea, Jordan, Malta and Hungary were invited to SPIC Shanghai Electric Power and made field visits to projects such as the Pudong Qiantan Integrated Smart Energy Project in Shanghai. From this tour, the envoys were able to see and feel for themselves the development achievements of SPIC in multiple fields such as social and economic development, ecological and environmental protection, technological innovation, and energy supply guarantee. The Qiantan Integrated Smart Energy Center of SPIC Shanghai Electric Power shoulders the arduous task of providing cooling and heating sources for air conditioning in an area of more than 1,000,000 square meters in Qiantan. After ten years of high-quality development, the Qiantan Project has become a model for the application of green integrated smart energy in urban area. At the Qiantan Smart Energy Center, the envoys experienced firsthand the flow and conversion of energy. They said that smart energy is not only a technological innovation but also an advocate of the green lifestyle. Later, the envoys visited the exhibition hall on the first floor of the headquarters of Shanghai Electric Power, where they walked through the development history of China's power sector. The exhibition hall, with its ingenious design, abundant historical documents and authentic exhibits, vividly shows the development and evolution of China's power sector. After the visit, SPIC Shanghai Electric Power organized a roundtable meeting with the envoys, where the two sides had a lively discussion on topics such as the future challenges and opportunities of the power industry and the prospects for cooperation in electric power between China and foreign countries. The "SPIC Tour for Ambassadors to China" is like a stone thrown into a lake, causing ripples in the hearts of the envoys. It not only opened their eyes to Shanghai's outstanding achievements in the field of smart energy but also provided valuable references and inspirations for global energy transformation and development. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/spics-green-energy-development-in-the-eyes-of-ambassadors-to-china-302340569.html EQS Newswire / 31/12/2024 / 10:00 CET/CEST YICHUN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 31 December 2024 - On the evening of December 21, a fireworks display themed "Fireworks of Love" lit up the sky above the ancient city of Wanzai in Jiangxi Province, China. The show, designed by French fireworks artist Sophie, won the Gold Award at the 5th China International Fireworks and Culture Festival of Wanzai. The year of 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic relations. Sophie blended French romanticism with traditional Chinese culture and stories, using colors such as blue and red to create a romantic atmosphere in celebration of the milestone. Sophie has had a deep interest in Chinese culture since childhood. During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, she contributed to the creative planning of the opening ceremony. Deeply impressed by the grandeur of the fireworks displays, she has named herself ??(Su Qi), which means to be as beautiful and brilliant as fireworks. Driven by her love for China, Sophie has settled in Wanzai. Now she works for a local large-scale fireworks company and oversees fireworks performances in the ancient city. Located in northwest Jiangxi, Wanzai has a history spanning over 1,400 years in fireworks production and is one of China's four major fireworks manufacturing areas. Its fireworks have illuminated the skies at major events, including the Beijing Olympics, the Shanghai World Expo, and National Day celebrations in Beijing. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. News Source: Yichun International Communication Center, Jiangxi Province 31/12/2024 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Media archive at www.todayir.com ALGIERS, Algeria, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (HKG: 0386, "Sinopec") has officially released the first sustainability report, Sustainability Report on Serving the Construction of the Belt and Road - Sinopec in Algeria, on December 27 in Algiers. This is the first sustainability report published by a Chinese company in Algeria, detailing Sinopec's achievement in fulfilling economic, safety, environmental, and social responsibilities in the region and advancing the vision of New Algeria. Algeria is the largest country in Africa with the fourth largest economic output. Sinopec adheres to the vision and mission of open cooperation, mutual benefit, and win-win to establish a long-term, sustainable cooperation model that's benefiting the people with the commitment of achieving unity between oil and gas exploration, environmental protection, and social progress. Sinopec's key focus areas in Algeria include oil exploration and development, petroleum engineering, refining and chemical engineering. It has signed a new agreement with Algeria's national oil and gas company SONATRACH on the Zarzaitine oilfield that further deepens the partnership. Sinopec always holds to the principles of ensuring a high level of engineering quality and providing premium services. The desert water pipeline project, which was constructed to solve the drinking water shortages of 50,000 residents in Tamanrasset, has won the outstanding contribution award of Sino-Algerian cooperation. Sinopec strictly complies with the relevant safety and environmental protection regulations in Algeria and continuously improves safety management, strengthens environmental control, implements green construction and protects the ecological environment and biodiversity. It has set up an electrical safety committee in the Zarzaitine oilfield that carried out 42 HSE inspections and put in 3.12 million dollars in safety and environmental protection. Sinopec is also supporting various public welfare projects such as voluntary tree planting and waste cleaning in Algeria. Sinopec prioritizes the development of the local workforce by providing almost 1,000 jobs at the the Zarzaitine oilfield, along with opportunities for career advancement and personal growth. It's actively giving back to the local communities with concrete actions, including repairing wells in desert hinterland to provide clean water for local residents, hosting diverse culture and sharing events, celebrating cultural festivals, founding the "China Bookshelf" project to enhance cultural exchange, donating medical supplies to local hospitals, providing school supplies to local students and more, which have been widely recognized by local society. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2589005/Sinopec_s_First_Geophysical_Exploration_Project_Algeria.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/960416/SINOPEC_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sinopec-releases-first-sustainable-development-report-in-algeria-302340591.html Quantum Kinetics Corporation has successfully designed, built, patented, trademarked, and publicly demonstrated the functional Arc Reactor, which permanently holds Nuclear Fusion temperatures of 180 million degrees Celsius with ambient air - no vacuum chamber necessary. Quantum Kinetics Corporation ( QKC ) continues to push the limits with their leading edge Safe Nuclear technology. Contextually, QKC's first ' World Record ' was set back in 2022 with well water and ocean water, reaching a verified 150 million degrees Celsius sustained for 8-hrs using the Quantum Kinetic Fusor ( QKF ) modular water reactor. QKC's successful demonstration of low-energy nuclear isotope editing was additionally published and peer-reviewed with npjNature: Clean Water , and the Department of Energy DOE / PNNL . The second cold nuclear fusion ' World Record ' was set on November 5th 2024, with the successful cracking of Uranium - 234 / 235 / 238 , while hitting even hotter nuclear temperatures of 200 million degrees Celsius sustained (18 keV X-rays) for 24-hrs. This momentous new ' World Record ' achievement not only fractured Uranium , but also redefines physics as we understand it today. Additionally, QKC has developed another reactor. The flagship patented and trademarked Arc Reactor sustains nuclear plasma fusion temperatures of 180 million degrees Celsius (15.5 keV - X-rays) with ambient air. This translates to application in business and industry unprecedented by any fusion company today. See Figure1. Figure 1: The Arc Reactor marshals permanently sustained cold plasma nuclear fusion temperatures for minutes, hours, days, weeks, and even years. The machine stimulates Electro-Physical Transmutation ( E-PT ) at 180 million degrees Celsius (X-rays between 1 keV to 37.5 keV) similar to nascent luminous bodies. Once thought to be for completely theatrical purposes, classical scientists would reasonably dismiss this design to be a non-existent fictional movie prop. Quite the contrary, Quantum Kinetics' Arc Reactor utilizes a unique cyclotron approach known as, ' Particle Oscillations as an Energy Generator ' to induce Safe Nuclear: Electro-Physical Transmutation ( E-PT ) on demand. Thus, cold plasma fusion is manipulated resulting in high levels of X-ray energy without increasing localized thermal (infrared) heat. QKC's sustained nuclear fusion is similar to active galactic nucleus (AGN) such as all cosmic blackbody radiators (1 keV - 37.5 keV), this form of E-PT energy is real, quantifiable, and measurable with state-of-the-art industry detectors (XR-110CR & PulseTor SDD). Quantum Kinetics consistently replicated the nuclear phenomenon over four years of painstaking research using the water-based Quantum Kinetic Fusor (QKF) device, which is a derivative design of the Arc Reactor . As stated above, the QKF results have been peer-reviewed in a npj Nature journal and heralded by the reviewers as "a much-needed invention around the world." Quantum Kinetics' revelations and stunning " World Record " announcement sent the hot fusion research community into a tailspin. Academia has spent the last 75 years and hundreds of billions of dollars attempting to sustain nuclear fusion to no avail, QKC's announcement has strangely been met not with universal praise and support, but disappointingly with scathing disdain for creating a viable solution to so many energy-based difficulties faced today. Despite this, officials at Quantum Kinetics realize there is no longer a reason to decelerate the public's attention on the benefits of Safe Nuclear plasma fusion. As recently stated by Dr. Vanessa Chan , the Chief Commercialization Officer and Offices Director of Technology Transitions of the U.S. Department of Energy, "We have to find better ways to do everything because we are running out of time." In short, QKC offers the only viable beacon of hope in the utilization of its patented and trademarked Quantum Kinetic Well ( QKW ) electrical phenomenon. This technological marvel is capable of sustained nuclear fusion at room temperature, with the Arc Reactor . McKane Lee, the CEO of Quantum Kinetics states, "The Arc Reactor can trigger Safe Nuclear on demand 100% of the time, while easily transmuting impurities in the ambient air, water, liquid metals, and even the vacuum of space." See Figure 2. Figure 2: The Arc Reactor utilizing the QKW technology operating at 1.9 watts producing > 180 million degrees Celsius nuclear fusion temperatures (X-rays between 1 keV to 37.5 keV) similar to nascent luminous cosmic blackbody radiators. a.) PulseTor SDD X-ray detector spectrum of the Arc Reactor after 60-seconds. RED emissions are of radioactive Fe-55 calibration samples. b.) PulseTor SDD X-ray spectrum of the Arc Reactor with 'line representation' of emissions. c.) NASA's NuSTAR X-ray telescope spectrum emission of NGC-1365 showing gravitational distortion effects of X-rays. d.) NASA's X-ray radiation emissions active galactic nucleus (AGN). 'Prograde Rotation' behavior is in likeness to the Arc Reactor emissions. e.) The fully functional and operational Arc Reactor blackbody radiator cold fusion device. QKC's reactors glow brightly, consistently, reliably, safely, and do not destroy the devices that created them. The QKW enhances the environment, both inside and outside of the reactor. In effect, Quantum Kinetics' machines are ushering in the restorative relationship between humans and the planet they inhabit. Vice President of QKC, Randal Bird, recently stated, "Quantum Kinetics has a responsibility to all of humankind to take what is in our hands now and make it into something to benefit the world." Bird described Quantum Kinetics' mission, "This is now our calling despite the expected avalanche of professional skepticism." One such commercial application from QKC is development of an Atmospheric Power Plant to revitalize the Earth's environment. QKC's research shows that lower power inputs yield more organic life than inorganic materials. An impressive 1,500x growth factor of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was produced from lab grade 99.9% D2O (deuterium-oxide) heavy water (DLM-4-1000). DOC is critical to the Carbon Cycle and enhancement of planet Earth's biosphere. See Figure 3. Figure 3: Artist and AI generated image rendition Safe Nuclear technology repairing Mother Earth and stabilizing a fruitful civilization with the Electro-Physical Transmutation (E-PT) phenomenon. Scaling the Arc Reactor technology into a larger reactor generator is coined, "Atmosphere Processing Plants". QKC's research confirms that E-PT's nuclear burning plasma fabricates organic and inorganic Carbon, Oxygen, and Nitrogen with 30V inputs ( CNO nuclear cycle ). This type of fruitful fusion is called "Star-Punk" by Dana Kippel , a Hollywood Film Director and visionary. Another exciting application of the QKW technology is the deployment of nuclear waste remediation stations at existing and new nuclear fission power plants ( SMR ) using the Quantum Kinetic Fusor reactors. QKC's Safe Nuclear fusion reactors transmute harmful radioactive legacy nuclear waste and aid cleansing of operation nuclear fission Small Modular Reactors (SMR) See Figure 4. Figure 4: AI generated image rendition of a future Quantum Kinetics Corporation's nuclear remediation station. The Quantum Kinetic Fusor transmutation device triggers UNF (Used Nuclear Fuel) remediation with head-spinning speed. Effectively speeding up the 700-million years half-life of Uranium-235, and slashing it down to a mere 24-hrs. This Safe Nuclear system can process radioactive air, slurry mixes, and poisoned (tritiated) water. Riley Lee, Attorney/CPA and President of QKC, recently voiced his opinion, "With such an expeditionary vision, we project a future not only with clean and everlasting energy, but with other yet unimagined wonders beyond the 'Quantum Kinetic Horizon.' How many other explorers will follow, daring the risks and rewards of discovery - is the outstanding question." "Everything is achievable with this advanced technology and only limited to the imagination." states McKane Lee. "We are excited to finally be leading the world into a new and brighter future with the Arc Reactor technology. It's going to be an exciting 2025. Cautiously, we are keeping our eyes open for the real life Obadiah Stane." "Truth is stranger than fiction, but is it because fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn't." - Mark Twain, Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World. About Quantum Kinetics Corporation: QKC holds six patents, numerous trademarks, and copyrights on Safe Nuclear devices. QKC's research has been published with npjNature: Clean Water for successful water isotope manipulation. QKC is currently preparing for Series-A funding in Q1 of 2025. QKC is registered with SAM/DUNS and is eligible for emergency Federal contracting in Washington, Oregon, and California. QKC collaborated with Unscripted Arena in a recent podcast. Click here to view the podcast. QKC also has demonstrated Safe Nuclear with Dana Kippel, plasma girl, using the Arc Reactor . Click Here . For further information visit: http://www.quantumkinetics.co Partnership & Investment interests, contact: info@quantumkinetics.co YouTube (Bronze Member): https://www.youtube.com/@quantumkineticscorporation "The Quantum Kinetic Well: Powering the World with Endless Clean Energy" Amazon , Audible Book , and Barnes and Noble . And coming soon, "Journey Beyond the Quantum Horizon," the second volume of "The Quantum Kinetic Chronicles." QUANTUM KINETICS CORPORATION'S PRIOR PRESS RELEASES: 1.) JANUARY 2024: SAFE NUCLEAR 2.) FEBRUARY 2024: NEW DAWN 3.) APRIL 2024: EARTH DAY 4.) AUGUST 2024: REMEDIATION OF UNF 5.) NOVEMBER 2024: WORLD RECORD PLASMA FUSION 6.) DECEMBER 2024: IN THE RACE FOR NUCLEAR FUSION Contact Information View the original press release on accesswire.com EQS Newswire / 31/12/2024 / 18:01 UTC+8 SeaPRwire Enhances Southeast Asia Media Coverage with 10 Languages for PR Professionals Hong Kong - December 31, 2024 - ( SeaPRwire ) - SeaPRwire, a global leader in press release distribution services, has announced a major enhancement to its offerings with the launch of its comprehensive media outreach solutions for Southeast Asia (SEA) in 10 languages. This new initiative aims to empower businesses and PR professionals in the region by providing an extensive, multi-lingual platform to connect with key media outlets across 12 countries. The expanded service offering includes press release distribution in languages critical to Southeast Asia's dynamic media landscape, including Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Burmese, Lao, Khmer, English, Thai, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, and Filipino. This expansion strengthens SeaPRwire's commitment to serving the unique communication needs of companies targeting diverse audiences across the region. With Southeast Asia's media environment becoming increasingly complex and competitive, SeaPRwire has tailored its solutions to help brands reach their target audiences with precision. By adding 10 language options, the platform offers businesses a seamless experience in delivering messages across cultural and linguistic barriers. James Scott, Chief Marketing Officer at SeaPRwire, shared insights on the company's strategy: "As Southeast Asia continues to grow as a key global economic hub, it is essential for brands to communicate effectively in a variety of languages to engage with diverse audiences. The 10-language offering of our Branding-Insight Program is a game-changer, enabling brands to connect with the right media in the right language, at the right time." This development is part of SeaPRwire's broader strategy to enhance its Branding-Insight Program, which is designed to provide PR professionals and businesses with a powerful tool to understand and connect with their audiences. The Branding-Insight Program includes the new Media-Empower-Pack, a unique solution that enables clients to distribute global press releases to over 8,000 media outlets. Additionally, the program supports a wide array of industries and allows businesses to reach audiences across multiple sectors with multimedia support and an unlimited word count. The Media-Empower-Pack's real-time media contact management features make it a standout tool for PR professionals. By accessing individual media contact cards, clients can view up-to-date information such as contact names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Moreover, SeaPRwire's easy-to-use dashboard allows users to build and manage customized media lists based on their specific needs. Contacts can be split, edited, or merged to create personalized outreach strategies, allowing businesses to target their media efforts more effectively. Scott emphasized the importance of strategic media outreach for companies aiming to achieve a competitive edge. "Our team at SeaPRwire understands that effective media communication is a key driver for brand success. With the enhanced capabilities of our Branding-Insight Program, businesses can leverage thought leadership content, deliver tailored press releases, and maximize their return on investment in media outreach, even in these challenging times for businesses." SeaPRwire's expansion into 10 languages is also a response to the growing demand for localized communication strategies in Southeast Asia. As the region's economy continues to evolve, businesses are increasingly recognizing the need to cater to local languages and cultural nuances to establish meaningful connections with their target audience. The 10-language support will help brands navigate the complex media landscape and foster greater engagement with local consumers and media in key markets such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. The platform's success in Southeast Asia is also attributed to SeaPRwire's deep understanding of local markets. By providing multilingual press release distribution, SeaPRwire helps businesses scale their marketing and communications efforts across the region, ensuring that their messages resonate with diverse audiences. "Our goal is to help businesses grow and succeed in Southeast Asia by providing them with effective communication tools that drive visibility and deliver results," said Scott. "We believe that with the right media strategies, companies can build stronger brands, increase customer engagement, and ultimately achieve sustainable growth." With its extensive media network in Southeast Asia and the powerful capabilities of its Branding-Insight Program, SeaPRwire is poised to help businesses maximize their media outreach efforts and strengthen their position in the highly competitive Southeast Asian market. The launch of the 10-language support underscores SeaPRwire's commitment to enabling PR and marketing professionals to craft and execute effective communication strategies that drive measurable impact. To learn more about SeaPRwire's expanded media outreach solutions and how they can help businesses achieve their communication goals, visit www.SeaPRwire.com . About SeaPRwire SeaPRwire ( https://www.SeaPRwire.com/ ) is a leading global provider of wire distribution services to media relations and marketing communications professionals. SeaPRwire's platform allows clients to identify key factors of their press releases and measure meaningful impact. It has a strong media network in Southeast Asia, indexing news from thousands of worldwide sources. SeaPRwire's media network support multi-lingual press release distribution , including English, Chinese, Burmese, Khmer, Laos, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, Filipino and more. SeaPRwire provides real time press release distribution for companies and organizations to 6,500+ media outlets. Media Contact Tina Lee, PR manager cs@SeaPRwire.com https://www.seaprwire.com SOURCE: SeaPRwire 31/12/2024 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Media archive at www.todayir.com Ukraine is using some unique tactics to defeat the Russian invaders. The most damaging tactic is that when Russian troops attack, they suffer substantial casualties as the Ukrainians continually retreat before the Russians can reach them. During World War II the Germans used similar tactics towards the end of the war when the Russians were on the offensive. The Germans would build substantial front-line defenses and then secretly withdraw their troops to a second fortified line as the Russian artillery bombardment hit empty trenches. The advancing Russian troops would advance past the empty trench line and run into the second one that was full of Germans who used machine-guns and mortars to slaughter the advancing Russians. This happened at the end of the war the Russians were advancing on Berlin, which they captured. During the war the Russians lost about three times as many troops as the Germans, even though the Germans were on the offensive for most of the war. Russia was victorious during World War II, which they called the Great Patriotic War. Russia didnt fight a similar war, against a well-armed, well led and determined opponent until they invaded Ukraine in 2022. As is usual with such invasions, the attacks believed it would be a quick victory, but it never is and that was especially true in Ukraine. By the end of 2024 Russia had lost over 700,000 soldiers dead, disabled or missing. Casualties reached a million if you count the lightly wounded and deserters who were not reported by officers unwilling to admit to their superiors that they could not inspire and command their troops successfully in combat. Over a million military age men fled Russia to avoid being forced to join the military and die in Ukraine. The Russian military, like the rest of the country, is experiencing an ever expanding culture of corruption. It even extends to the military, where troops receive substandard equipment when they receive anything at all. Medical and food supplies are stolen and sold on the black market by supply sergeants, while Russian officers sell drugs to their troops. They dont want to win the war, just get rich as long as the fighting lasts. For too many Russian officers, including generals and government defense officials, corruption is their primary activity. So many Russian soldiers have been killed that Russia had to hire 12,000 North Korean mercenary troops. These soldiers are also being robbed by their own government, which keeps most of the pay these troops are supposed to receive and apparently told the Russians that these soldiers were expendable and they could do whatever they wanted with them. By the end of the year the North Korean soldiers were in combat and when hundreds of wounded North Korean soldiers were taken to Russian military hospitals it was discovered there were few, if any interpreters who could translate for the medical personnel to treat wounds. This complicated treatment led to many avoidable deaths. There were few translators in combat, which led to at least one incident of North Korean soldiers firing on Russian troops. To the North Koreans the Russians and Ukrainians looked similar, spoke similar languages and wore similar combat uniforms. The lack of interpreters led to the North Korean troops becoming a liability to the Russians as well. Recently Russias problems multiplied with Russian troops being chased out of Syria by a surprise attack by a reinvigorated HTS Islamic terrorist group in northern Syria. These attacks quickly ran all foreign forces out of Syria except for some American bases on the Iraq border and Turkish forces in northwestern Idlib province. Russia has growing economic problems back home. The new American president Trump vowed to bring peace to Ukraine and end the war. The Trump plan involves Ukraine getting back come but not all of the Russian occupied Ukrainian territory. If Ukraine doesnt agree the Americans will cut off all military and economic aid. The United States has been the major source of this aid. If the Russians do not agree, American economic sanctions will be increased to the point where the Russian economy is a wreck. The Russian economy is already in bad shape and more American pressure has disastrous consequences for Russia and its leader Vladimir Putin. Russia has had to sell nearly half of its gold reserves since 2023. The National Wealth Fund has also been depleted. This fund is for emergencies and is expected to be empty before Russia runs out of emergencies. It gets worse as the price of the primary Russian export, oil, has fallen and with that Russia finds itself with insufficient income to keep its economy and war effort in Ukraine going. The war has already had a catastrophic impact on the economy, causing labor shortages and production bottlenecks because of sanctions. China was unable, or unwilling to replace all the items Russia used to get from Europe and North America. The Ukraine War has impoverished Russia. The leaders, like Vladimir Putin who ordered the invasion, have been indicted as war criminals for the Russia atrocities committed in Ukraine. While Ukraine receives substantial military and economic support from NATO countries, Russia received a ruined economy and proof that Russia cannot be trusted because, in 1994, it agreed to never attack Ukraine in return of Ukraine giving up its Soviet era nuclear weapons. Despite all this, Putin claims he will keep fighting for as long as it takes to make Ukraine Russian again. Putin ignores the fact that many of associates and supporters in Russia are losing faith in their leader. SNOWLINE GOLD CORP (TSXV:SGD)(OTCQB:SNWGF) (the "Company" or "Snowline") is pleased to provide a summary of key activities and achievements over the past calendar year. In June 2024, Snowline released an initial Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for its 100% owned Valley deposit on its Rogue Project, just two and a half years after the initial drill discovery, establishing Valley as a significant, continuous, near-surface gold deposit with clean, non-refractory mineralization and unusually high grades for a reduced intrusion-related gold system (RIRGS). Following the initial MRE, Snowline safely and efficiently completed an additional 25,000 m drilling at Valley during 2024, expanding the footprint of known mineralization at Valley and nearly doubling the number of metres drilled into the deposit. The Company completed an additional 10,000 m of exploratory drilling on regional targets. With more than C$43.2M in the treasury, Snowline is well positioned for a momentous year in 2025. Active regional exploration and drilling will complement a core focus on rigorous, rapid and responsible advancement of Valley. Snowline's top 5 highlights from 2024: Valley Deposit Initial MRE: 4.05 Moz Au Indicated at 1.66 g/t Au and an additional 3.26 Moz Au Inferred at 1.25 g/t Au. The high degree of consistency and near-surface nature of mineralization allowed for delineation of the initial MRE, with 55% of the total resource estimate defined as Indicated, based on 27,911 m drilling. This represents a drill discovery cost of just C$3.20 per ounce of gold across all categories at Valley. Operational Excellence: Completed >35,000 m drilling-by far Snowline's largest drill campaign to date-safely and under budget, including >25,000 m at Valley. This is a 90% increase in total metres drilled at Valley since the initial MRE, with high grades seen in infill holes and several notable areas of expansion. Results for >11,600 m from 29 holes (33% of 2024 drilling) remain outstanding from Valley and other targets. Environmental Stewardship: Received second consecutive Robert E. Leckie Award for Excellence in Environmental Stewardship. The 2024 award, conferred by representatives from the Government of Yukon, the Council of Yukon First Nations and Yukon Chamber of Mines, was granted in recognition of Snowline's Phase I cleanup project at the Plata airstrip and staging site, located off Company claims but in the vicinity of the Valley deposit and formerly used to service small-scale silver mines in the area. Financial Strength: Raised a total of $31.9M at a 46% premium to market allowing for growth through an upscaled exploration program with minimal dilution. With C$43.2M remaining in the treasury as of December 31, 2024, Snowline is fully financed for an aggressive exploration campaign alongside project advancement through 2025. Expanding Skillsets: Appointment of Brian Hegarty as VP Sustainability & External Relations and accomplished mining engineer Gil Lawson as an independent director along with other roles adding in-house expertise for the efficient and responsible advancement of the Valley deposit towards production. As of writing, Snowline has an open job posting for a VP Engineering to help steer planning efforts and oversee further expansion of a development-focused team. "Thanks to an incredible performance by our team, 2024 has seen a phase change for Snowline in terms of the definition, de-risking and advancement of our flagship Valley deposit," said Scott Berdahl, CEO & Director of Snowline. "We entered the year with exciting drill results from Valley. By June, we had an initial Mineral Resource Estimate establishing Valley as a significant, multi-million-ounce gold deposit, emphatically checking important boxes in terms of its strong gold grades, continuous near-surface geometry, and favourable metallurgy. By October, we'd increased the total metres drilled at Valley by 90% through a combination of expansionary holes and infill drilling. We did this safely and within the budget of a much smaller initial program, while drill testing multiple additional targets in the district and discovering new mineralized systems through ongoing baseline and generative work. We plan to release an updated MRE for Valley prior to the commencement of the 2025 field program. "I would like to thank our team as well as our service providers, suppliers, consultants and partners for another incredible year, and our shareholders for their ongoing support as we advance a unique deposit and work to explore what could become an exciting new gold district." Additional highlights from 2024 include: Construction of the 50-person Valley Camp in additional to Snowline's 50-person Forks Camp, increasing efficiency and capacity for exploration and project advancement at Valley. Together with the acquisition of a 30-person camp on the Einarson Project, Snowline's field capacity has increased by 160% from 2023. 100% consolidation of the Einarson Project - a large, underexplored area immediately north of and contiguous with the Rogue Project marked by multiple kilometers-scale geochemical anomalies and prospecting discoveries - including consolidation of Snowline's Jupiter target and acquisition of the Venus target with historical drill results reported up to 9.67 g/t Au over 38.7 m. Continued strong results from Valley , including 5.99 g/t Au over 101.0 m within a broader 4.05 g/t Au over 244.9 m from surface in infill hole V-24-078, and 1.61 g/t Au over 435.0 m, including 2.39 g/t Au over 150.5 m in expansionary hole V-24-077. A visible-gold-bearing quartz vein has been observed on average once every 7.2 m through all >53,000 m of drilling to date at Valley. Assays for >8,300 m from 20 holes at Valley are still outstanding. A robust and growing district-level pipeline , with exploratory drilling conducted on six non-Valley targets, discovery of multiple new RIRGS and orogenic gold targets through prospecting and surface mapping, and enhancement of regional baseline geochemical and geophysical surveys. Assays for >3,300 m from nine holes across two regional targets (Aurelius and Jupiter) are still outstanding. Strong local support , with 80% of $C30.2M external exploration expenditures spent with Yukon-based companies, including 61% of external exploration expenditures spent with companies owned by or directly partnered with Yukon First Nations. Formal analyst coverage initiated by four independent industry analysts, bringing total coverage to 10 analysts including four major banks. Wider institutional ownership , with several cornerstone long funds beginning and/or expanding on large equity positions in Snowline throughout the year. Expansion of Yukon mineral tenure to 360,000 hectares through early season staking and acquisition, with a geographical focus around the Valley deposit. Up to C$35.4M in infrastructure funding commitments by the Canadian and United States governments to support possible road and power upgrades for and project advancement on Fireweed Metals Corp.'s adjacent, development-stage critical metals properties near Macmillan Pass, southeast of the Rogue Project's Valley deposit. Multiple industry awards recognizing Snowline management and team; in addition to the 2024 Robert E. Leckie Award, these were the Association for Mineral Exploration's H.H. "Spud" Huestis Award for excellence in prospecting and mineral exploration in BC and/or the Yukon, the Yukon Prospector's Association's Prospector of the Year Award, Young Mining Professionals' Peter Munk Award for contributions to the mining industry, Commodity Discovery Fund's Discovery Award for the discovery of Valley, and Kitco Mining's Mining CEO of the Year Award in the non-producing category (for 2023). Figure 1 - Long section through Valley initial MRE block model. A large zone of continuous, >2 g/t Au mineralization is present from surface. Sequential shells highlighting the distribution of grades are shown on this figure, with classification breakdowns shown in Table 1. Resource blocks are 15 x 15 x 10 m. Only blocks above cutoff grade of 0.4 g/t Au located within the revenue factor 0.72 shell are included in initial MRE for Valley - none of the mineralized blocks shown outside of this shell are included. Holes drilled in 2024 are not yet factored into the MRE and are not included in this figure. For the section display, drill hole grades are composited within 10 m benches and project 25 m in front of and behind section. Table 1 - An incremental breakdown of the initial MRE for Valley as contained within sequentially expanding shells. It should be read with reference to Figure 1, which illustrates these sequential shells on a long section of the Valley deposit. This table provides a quantitative basis for the description of relatively high-grade, continuous, near-surface mineralization at Valley. The Company believes that the front-heavy distribution of mineralization between these iterative pit shells and the low ratios of waste material to mineralization above cutoff (note only 3,304 kt of waste material in the first incremental pit shell) materially enhance the potential of the project, providing strength and optionality in potential future development scenarios. Figure 2 - Histogram of the initial MRE for Valley sorted by 20 m elevation brackets, illustrating the near-surface nature of gold distribution in the deposit. Surface elevations across the Valley deposit typically range from 1,170 m to 1,190 m. Figure 3 - Snowline's new 50-person Valley Camp, within 300 m of the Valley deposit, is a key infrastructure component that allowed the Company to complete a 35,000 m drill program with a high level of efficiency. Figure 4 - Members of the Snowline team celebrating the close of a successful 2024 field season during the Yukon Geoscience Forum in November 2024. LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025 With a strong treasury and five diamond drills parked on site at the Rogue Project, Snowline is looking forward to another highly active exploration season in 2025. Through the upcoming year, the Company will adhere to its commitment to safe, environmentally sound, and socially responsible exploration, building on its economic engagement within the Yukon and further strengthening lines of communication, engagement and collaboration with First Nations and Yukon communities. The scale and nature of the 2025 program will be finalized early in the coming year, but the program will continue to pursue two primary operational objectives: 1) continued exploration of the open Valley deposit, as well as significant progress towards economic assessment and environmental baseline studies to support permitting efforts, and 2) to follow up on promising results from other targets on Rogue and on the Company's surrounding projects with the goal of establishing a new gold district. An updated MRE incorporating the 25,099 m of drilling at Valley in 2024 is planned for the first half of 2025. Figure 5 - Project location map for Snowline Gold's eastern Selwyn Basin projects: Rogue, Einarson, Ursa, Cynthia and Olympus. The Valley deposit is one of a cluster of prospective reduced intrusion-related gold targets on the broader 30 x 60 km Rogue Project and the surrounding area. ABOUT SNOWLINE GOLD CORP. Snowline Gold Corp. is a Yukon Territory focused gold exploration company with an eight-project portfolio covering roughly 360,000 ha (3,600 km2). The Company is exploring its flagship 111,000 ha (1,110 km2) Rogue Project in the highly prospective yet underexplored Selwyn Basin. Snowline's project portfolio sits within the prolific Tintina Gold Province, host to multiple million-ounce-plus gold mines and deposits. The Company's first-mover position and extensive exploration database provide a unique opportunity for investors to be part of multiple discoveries and the creation of a new gold district. Since its launch in 2021, Snowline has progressed the Rogue Project's Valley deposit from a greenfield prospecting discovery to a significant bulk tonnage gold resource, with 4.05 Moz gold Indicated mineral resource at 1.66 g/t Au and an additional 3.26 Moz Inferred mineral resource at 1.25 g/t Au within a revenue factor 0.72 pit-shell constraint. The resource estimate numbers are supported by the recent technical report for Rogue, prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 standards, entitled "Rogue Gold Project: NI 43-101 Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate," authored by Heather Burrell, P. Geo., Daniel J. Redmond, P. Geo., and Steven C. Haggarty, P. Eng., with an effective date of May 15, 2024. QUALIFIED PERSON Information in this release has been prepared under supervision of and approved by Thomas K. Branson, M.Sc., P. Geo., VP Exploration of Snowline Gold Corp, as Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101. For specifics of the initial MRE at Valley, please see the Company's July 23, 2024, NI 43-101 Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate for the Rogue Project, available on our website and on SEDAR+. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Scott Berdahl CEO & Director For further information, please contact: Snowline Gold Corp. +1 778 650 5485 info@snowlinegold.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the significance of analytical results, plans to release an updated mineral resource estimate in H1 2025, future advanced permitting and development activities, the potential for investors to participate in multiple future discoveries, the Rogue Project having district-scale prospectivity, the creation of a new gold district and the Company's future plans and intentions. Wherever possible, words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "expect", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof. Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things: risks related to uncertainties inherent in drill results and the estimation of mineral resources; and risks associated with executing the Company's plans and intentions. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. SOURCE: Snowline Gold Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Silver Elephant Mining Corp. (TSX: ELEF) (OTCQB: SILEF) (FSE: 1P2) ("Silver Elephant" or the "Company") reports that the Company received a notice of cancellation of its Pulacayo Mining Production Contract ("MPC") from Corporacion Minera de Bolivia, a state-owned mining company ("Comibol"). Comibol's one page notice to the Company cites alleged illegal mining as the grounds for the MPC cancelation. The Company maintains that it has operated in full compliance and received proper authorisations for its activities in the area covered under the MPC ("MPC area"). The Company is not aware of any illegal mining by third parties. The MPC was executed on October 3, 2019 between a Silver Elephant Bolivian subsidiary and Comibol. The MPC, which remained subject to ratification from the Bolivian congress, granted the Company's subsidiary an exclusive right to develop and mine at certain Comibol concessions located in the Pulacayo and Paca areas for up to 30 years. Comibol reports to the Bolivian Ministry of Mining and Metallurgy and controls approximately 163 Bolivian mining concessions. The notice of MPC cancelation does not affect Silver Elephant's Apuradita mining concession next to Comibol's Paca concessions. The Company is currently developing a tunnel to access silver sulphide materials at Apuradita, a mining concession which is registered directly under the name of a Silver Elephant Bolivian subsidiary. The Company is preparing to appeal the cancelation pursuant to the terms of the MPC, which is a commercial contract, and under Bolivian law. No mining activities may take place in the MPC area until the dispute is resolved according to Bolivian law. The Company intends to continue to maintain its positive social relations with local communities, which the Company's Bolivian subsidiaries have spent more than a decade in building. About Silver Elephant Mining Corp. Silver Elephant is a mineral exploration company with the Paca silver project and Triunfo gold project in Bolivia. Further information on Silver Elephant can be found at www.silverelef.com. SILVER ELEPHANT MINING CORP. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "John Lee" CEO and Executive Chairman FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "could", "estimates", "expects", "forecasts", "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions. Such forward-looking information, which reflects management's expectations regarding Silver Elephant's future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, is based on certain factors and assumptions and involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this and other news releases includes, but not limited to, any potential outcome from the appeal process relating to COMIBOL's cancelation of the MPC, the Company's ability to access grade sulphide materials at Apuradita. Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as a guarantee of future performance, events or results, and may not be indicative of whether such events or results will actually be achieved. A number of risks and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results discussed in the forward-looking information, including but not limited to: changes in operating plans; ability to secure sufficient financing to advance the Company's project; conditions impacting the Company's ability to mine at the project, such as unfavourable weather conditions, development of a mine plan, maintaining existing permits and receiving any new permits required for the project, and other conditions impacting mining generally; maintaining cordial business relations with strategic partners and contractual counter-parties; meeting regulatory requirements and changes thereto; risks inherent to mineral resource estimation, including uncertainty as to whether mineral resources will be further developed into mineral reserves; political risk in the jurisdictions where the Company's projects are located including risks associated with any appeal process relating to the cancelation of the MPC; commodity price variation; and general market, industry and economic conditions. Additional risk factors are set out in the Company's latest annual and interim management's discussion and analysis and annual information form (AIF), available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions by management as of the date of this news release, and there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with any forward-looking information included herein. Readers are cautioned that all forward- looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information in this news release to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date of this news release, except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235628 SOURCE: Silver Elephant Mining Corp. HIGHLIGHTS: Montage Gold Corp. ("Montage Gold") obtained a 19.9% ownership stake in Sanu Gold through the issuance of 2,337,921 common shares of Montage Gold in exchange, equating to approximately CAD $5.5 million value Lundin Family obtained a 10% stake in Sanu Gold, joining AngloGold Ashanti plc who maintained a 10% stake in Sanu respectively Strategic Collaboration: Montage Gold's CEO, Martino De Ciccio, has been appointed as Chair of Sanu Gold's Board of Directors with EVP Exploration Silvia Bottero joining as Technical Advisor Exploration Focus: Proceeds from these investments will fund exploration activities in Guinea, West Africa, targeting the highly prospective Daina, Diguifara, and Bantabaye permits Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Sanu Gold Corporation (CSE: SANU) (OTCQB: SNGCF) ("Sanu Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has completed a strategic investment by Montage Gold Corp. (TSXV: MAU) (OTCQX: MAUTF) ("Montage Gold") & the Lundin family and associates (the "Lundin Family") into Sanu Gold for a total value of CAD $10,055,412. The Company has completed a share exchange transaction (the "Share Exchange Transaction") with Montage Gold for an investment by Montage Gold in Sanu Gold consisting of the issuance of common shares of Montage Gold ("Montage Shares") having a market value of CAD $5,494,115 in exchange for the issuance of an equivalent value of common shares of Sanu Gold ("Sanu Common Shares") at a deemed price of CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, pursuant to an investment agreement between the Company and Montage Gold (the "Montage Investment Agreement"). Montage Gold is approximately a 19.9% shareholder in Sanu Gold post-Share Exchange Transaction and Offering (as defined herein). The Company is also pleased to announce the closing of a non-brokered private placement of 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares (the "Offering") at CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, for an aggregate total of CAD $4,561,297, led by members of the Lundin Family and associates. The Sanu Common Shares issued under the Share Exchange Transaction and the Offering are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company expects to use the net proceeds of the Offering to advance exploration, including geophysics and drilling on the Company's Daina, Diguifara and Bantabaye Gold Exploration Permits in Guinea, West Africa, and for general and administrative purposes. Martin Pawlitschek, CEO of Sanu Gold, commented: "This marks a transformative step forward for Sanu Gold. The investments from Montage Gold and the Lundin Family, following earlier investments by AngloGold Ashanti plc and Capital DI, provide us with the capital, expertise, and strategic support needed to accelerate exploration on our high-potential gold projects in Guinea. With Martino De Ciccio joining as Chair of the Board, we are well-positioned to create significant value for our shareholders." Under the Share Exchange Transaction, Sanu received 2,337,921 Montage Shares at a deemed price per Montage Share of CAD $2.35 in exchange for the issuance of 76,307,155 Sanu Common Shares at a deemed price of CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, representing approximately 19.9% of Sanu Gold post-Share Exchange Transaction and Offering. Montage Gold acquired these Sanu Common Shares for investment purposes and may increase or decrease its interest in the Company in the future as market and other circumstances may dictate. The Montage Shares have been issued to Sanu Gold under an exemption from the prospectus requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws and will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance to Sanu Gold. Sanu Gold's sale of Montage Shares will be subject to certain notice rights to enable Montage Gold to designate suitable purchaser(s), which rights will operate so long as Montage Gold holds at least 10% of the issued and outstanding Sanu Common Shares. In connection with the Share Exchange Transaction, Martino De Ciccio, CEO of Montage Gold, has been appointed Chair of Sanu Gold. In connection with the Share Exchange Transaction, Company has entered into an investor rights agreement between Montage Gold and the Company (the "Montage Investor Rights Agreement"). The Montage Investor Rights Agreement will, subject to certain conditions, including ownership thresholds by Montage Gold, include the right to participate in future equity issuances to maintain its ownership in the Company, participation and top up rights, a board member nominee, a right of first refusal on certain asset-level transactions for Daina and Bantabaye and the formation of a technical advisory committee. In connection with the Offering, the Company has entered into: (i) an investment agreement between the Company and the Lundin Family; and (ii) an investor rights agreement (the "Lundin Investor Rights Agreements") between the Company and the Lundin Family. The Lundin Investor Rights Agreement, subject to certain conditions, including ownership thresholds by the Lundin Family, provide the Lundin Family with the right to participate in future equity issuances to maintain its ownership in the Company, and participation and top up rights. Eventus Capital Corp. has been appointed as the finder for Share Exchange Transaction and received a finder's fee of 5,341,501 Sanu Common Shares at a deemed price of $0.072 which are subject to a four-month hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws and will be subject to a resale restriction expiring four months and one day from the closing date. MI 61-101 Disclosure AngloGold Ashanti plc ("AngloGold Ashanti"), as well as two directors and officers of the Company (together with AngloGold Ashanti, the "Related Parties"), acquired an aggregate of 5,639,748 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering for a total purchase price of CAD $406,061.86. The participation by the Related Parties in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). However, the Offering will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of any Sanu Common Shares issued to or the consideration paid by such Related Parties exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. Early Warning Disclosure AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc (the "Investor") acquired an additional 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering. The Investor is a wholly owned direct subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti and acquired the foregoing Sanu Common Shares in connection with the exercise of the Investor's participation right under an existing investor rights agreement between AngloGold Ashanti and Sanu Gold (the "IRA"). Immediately prior to the Offering, the Investor had beneficial ownership of 33,400,000 Sanu Common Shares, representing approximately 14.0% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Immediately after the Offering and the Share Exchange Transaction, including the Investor's acquisition of 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering, the Investor had beneficial ownership of 38,345,304 Common Shares, representing approximately 10.0% of the issued and outstanding Sanu Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. The Investor acquired its Sanu Common Shares in the Offering for investment purposes and intends to review its investment in the Company on a continuing basis. Depending upon a number of factors including market and other conditions, the Investor may from time to time increase or decrease its beneficial ownership, control, direction or economic exposure over securities of the Company. The Company is a corporation existing under the laws of British Columbia with its head office at 918-1030 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 1Y3. An early warning report will be electronically filed with the applicable securities commission in each jurisdiction where the Company is reporting and will be available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. For further information or to obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact: Press Office Andrea Maxey +61 08 9435 4603 / +61 400 072 199 Investor Relations Andrea Maxey: +61 08 9435 4603 / +61 400 072 199 Yatish Chowthee: +27 11 637 6273 / +27 78 364 2080 AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc Communications House, South Street, Staines-Upon-Thames Surrey, TW18 4PR United Kingdom Company Grants Stock Options The Company has approved the grant of 13,475,000 stock options to certain officers, directors, employees and consultants of the Company under the Company's stock option plan. The options vest in equal intervals over a two-year period following the grant date, are exercisable to purchase one Sanu Common Share at a price of CAD $0.16 and expire on December 31, 2029. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Sanu Gold Located within the Siguiri Basin, a world class gold district that is host to several operating mines and major new discoveries, Sanu Gold is exploring three high quality gold exploration permits in Guinea, West Africa. The Company has defined multi-kilometer long gold-bearing structures on each of the gold exploration permits, with multiple high-value drill targets and is targeting multi-million ounce gold discoveries. Sanu is operated by a highly experienced team, with successful records of discovery, resource development and mine permitting. Martin Pawlitschek President & CEO, Sanu Gold Corp. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "indicates", "opportunity", "possible" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated benefits and value created by the transactions contemplated above (the "Transactions"), non-objection by the Canadian Securities Exchange in respect of the Transactions, final approval by the TSX Venture Exchange of the Share Exchange Transaction and the expected use of proceeds from the Offering. Although Sanu Gold believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's plans for exploration on its properties and ability to execute on plans, ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward, ability to maintain its material property agreements, mineral tenures and concessions in good standing, to explore and develop its projects; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associated with mineral exploration and mining operations, future prices of gold and other metals, changes in general economic conditions and local risks in the jurisdiction (Guinea) in which it operates, accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates, the potential for new discoveries, the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the projects and if obtained, to obtain such permits and consents in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the projects; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, dependence on key management personnel; general competition in the mining industry availability of capital and financing; general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes; timeliness of regulatory approvals as well as those factors discussed in the Company's public disclosure record. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235633 SOURCE: Sanu Gold Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. (TSXV: ELE) (OTCQX: ELEMF) ("Elemental Altus" or the "Company") announces the appointment today of Matthieu Bos to the Board of Directors ("Board") as an independent non-executive director. The appointment of Matthieu to the Board is made pursuant to the Company's investor rights agreement with La Mancha and replaces La Mancha's existing director nominee, Jack Lunnon. Accordingly, the Company will continue to have a Board of seven directors, with six non-executives. John Robins, Chair of Elemental Altus, commented: "We are pleased to welcome Matthieu to the Board. His extensive experience in mining capital markets and business development across BMO and Ivanhoe Mines will provide valuable insight as we continue to drive growth and deliver value for our shareholders. We also thank Jack for his time and commitment to the Board and look forward to continuing to work with him in his capacity as a senior member of the La Mancha team." Matthieu Bos Matthieu Bos is a trained metallurgist and former mining investment banker. Matthieu is currently the President and CEO of Falcon Energy Materials plc, an advanced stage graphite development company with assets in Guinea, backed by La Mancha. In Matthieu's previous role as Executive Vice President Africa for Ivanhoe Mines, Matthieu was a key member of the team that delivered the world-class Kamoa-Kakula Copper Project and was actively involved in US$3 billion in equity and debt financings from various strategic and institutional investors, including Zijin Mining and CITIC Metal. Frederick Bell CEO and Director TSXV: ELE | OTCQX: ELEMF | ISIN: CA28619K1093 | CUSIP: 28619K109 About Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. Elemental Altus is an income generating precious metals royalty company with 11 producing royalties and a diversified portfolio of pre-production and discovery stage assets. The Company is focused on acquiring uncapped royalties and streams over producing, or near-producing, mines operated by established counterparties. The vision of Elemental Altus is to build a global gold royalty company, offering investors superior exposure to gold with reduced risk and a strong growth profile. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. The appointment of the new director to the Board is subject to the approval of the TSX-V. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements This news release contains certain "forward looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the date that the name change is expected to become effective. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Elemental Altus to control or predict, that may cause Elemental Altus' actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Elemental Altus will receive royalties, risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Elemental Altus' expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of important factors which could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements, refer to the annual information form of Elemental Altus for the year ended December 31, 2023. Elemental Altus undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements and information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking statements and information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement or information can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235638 SOURCE: Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. Department of Transportation says it has fined Deutsche Lufthansa AG $220,000 and Swiss International Air Lines AG $200,000 for operating flights carrying United Airlines' designator code in regions in which a Federal Aviation Administration flight prohibition was in effect for U.S. operators. The airlines were ordered to cease and desist from future similar violations.?An investigation by the Department's Office of Aviation Consumer Protection revealed that between March 2022 and April 2024, Lufthansa operated multiple flights carrying the United Airlines code in airspace prohibited by the FAA to U.S. operators. By operating these flights in this manner, Lufthansa violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in air transportation without the proper DOT authority.?A separate OACP investigation revealed that between February 2022 and March 2024, Swiss operated multiple flights carrying the United Airlines code in airspace prohibited by the FAA to U.S. operators. By operating these flights in this manner, Swiss violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in air transportation without the proper DOT authority, DOT said in a press release.Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Mako Mining Corp. ("Mako") (TSXV:MKO)(OTCQX:MAKOF) is pleased to announce the entering into of a non-binding letter of intent to acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of EG Acquisition LLC ("EGA"), a recently created private corporation controlled by Mako's controlling shareholder, Wexford Capital LP ("Wexford"), established solely to acquire the Moss gold mine located in the historic Oatman District in Arizona (the "Proposed Transaction"). It is anticipated that EGA will complete the acquisition of the Moss gold mine on December 31st, 2024 through its acquisition of 100% of the common shares of Golden Vertex Corp. ("GVC") which holds direct ownership of the Moss gold mine. Each of EGA and GVC will become wholly owned subsidiaries of Mako as a result of the Proposed Transaction. The purchase price for the Proposed Transaction is expected to be in the range of US$ 4.9 million up to US$ 6.4 million if certain royalties are extinguished, all payable in cash. The Proposed Transaction is expected to close by February 2025. EGA's acquisition of GVC is pursuant to a court-approved sale process under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act and Chapter 15 of Title 11 of the United States Code (collectively the "Bankruptcy Process"), the terms of which included, among other things, the elimination of over US$ 60 million of liabilities associated with the Moss mine owed by GVC and its former parent. Prior to the Bankruptcy Process, there were several royalties and a silver stream on the Moss mine which entitled the silver stream holder to 100% of the payable silver over the life of the mine. The silver stream was eliminated upon EGA's acquisition of GVC. The two remaining material royalties (a net smelter return royalty of 3% and 1% respectively) are being disputed by GVC and its former parent in Arizona through the Chapter 15 bankruptcy process. If these royalties are vested away, Mako, through its then wholly-owned subsidiary EGA has agreed to pay up to an additional US$ 1.5 million to the creditors. Mako expects the status of these royalties to be determined in the first half of 2025. The Proposed Transaction will allow Mako to add a producing asset located in a top tier jurisdiction funded solely out of cash flow generated from the last quarter of Mako's current mining operations. The Moss mine has been producing gold throughout the Bankruptcy Process through its beneficiation facilities. Mining was temporarily suspended at the beginning of the Bankruptcy Process and Mako plans to restart mining operations upon completion of the Proposed Transaction once it has had an opportunity to optimize the mine plan and debottleneck the crushing plant. This is expected to be achieved within a few months of closing of the Proposed Transaction. Mako currently operates the high-grade San Albino Mine in northern Nicaragua and owns the Eagle Mountain project in Guyana. Over the last quarter, even after an extensive drill program at both properties, the cash and gold in sales receivables balance in Mako has increased by over US$ 6 million to nearly US$ 13 million at year end. In connection with the Proposed Transaction, Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company has pre-arranged the terms and conditions of a bonding facility for Mako in connection with the completion of the Proposed Transaction which provides that Trisura will release approximately US$ 1.5 million of the US$ 3.0 million currently held as collateral for various environmental reclamation bonds at the Moss mine, the result of which effectively reduces Mako's net cash acquisition cost. In connection with the bonding facility, Mako has agreed to execute an indemnity in favor Trisura having a value of approximately US$ 12 million, which shall terminate in the event Mako does not complete the Proposed Transaction. For more details about the Proposed Transaction see below. The Moss gold mine is an open pit heap leach operation located in the historic Oatman District in western Arizona. The operation is currently at limited capacity during the Bankruptcy Process while heap leaching continues to operate while producing minor amounts of gold and silver. All operating permits are in good standing. Moss Mine - Historical Gold Production and Revenues Source: Elevation Gold Website https://elevationgold.com/investors/financial-statements/ Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer of Mako, commented: "the acquisition of the producing Moss gold mine in Arizona, after the elimination of over US$ 60 million of existing liabilities associated with the mine, for a base purchase price of US$ 4.9 million, further reduced by US$ 1.5 million through the release of certain collateral, funded out of a fraction of this quarter's corporate cash generation, is a testament to the powerful platform Mako has at its disposal. Combining the company's experience in building and operating small and medium scale mines in the Americas, with the bankruptcy and distressed investing expertise of the controlling shareholder, with the profitability and pipeline that exists within our current portfolio, puts Mako into a very select class of companies. The Moss mine is central to the large scale historic Oatman Mining district, and we will be looking to expand our opportunities, especially with the new mining friendly United States administration about to take office next month." Proposed Transaction Terms Under the terms of the non-binding letter of intent, it is proposed that Mako will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of EGA for a total consideration value of US$ 4.9 million. Pursuant to the terms of the Bankruptcy Process, subject to the extinguishment of the 1% net smelter return royalty at the Moss mine held by affiliates of Sandstorm Gold Ltd., EGA will pay the former parent of GVC an additional US$ 0.5 million, and subject to the extinguishment of the 3% net smelter return royalty at the Moss mine held by Patriot Gold Corporation, EGA will pay the former parent of GVC an additional US$ 1.0 million, for total consideration of up to US$ 6.4 million payable in cash. Mako is acquiring the shares of EGA at the approximate cost basis of EGA's acquisition of GVC. If the Proposed Transaction is completed, Mako has agreed to reimburse the owners of EGA for any operational costs from December 31st, 2024. Unless the Proposed Transaction is cancelled, all gold and silver produced until the Proposed Transaction is complete, will be to the credit of Mako. EGA has agreed to deal exclusively and in good faith with Mako regarding the Proposed Transaction until March 31st, 2025. Definitive Agreement and Voting and Support Agreements Following execution of this letter, the parties will in good faith negotiate a definitive agreement to effect the Transaction (the "Definitive Agreement") incorporating terms and provisions as are customary for transactions of this nature, as well as customary voting support and lock-up agreements with the senior officers, directors and any significant shareholder of EGA (the "Voting and Support Agreements") with Mako on terms satisfactory to Mako pursuant to which, among other things, they will agree to vote the EGA shares that they own or over which they have control or direction in favor of the Transaction and against any other transaction that would prevent, delay or interfere in any way with the Transaction, not to solicit other transactions and otherwise support the Transaction, and not sell, dispose of or otherwise encumber any of their EGA shares (including any EGA shares under outstanding options, warrants or other convertible securities). Such Voting and Support Agreement shall be terminable by the shareholder in the event that the Definitive Agreement between Mako and EGA is validly terminated in accordance with its terms. In the Definitive Agreement, each of Mako and EGA will make such representations and warranties as are customary in transactions of this nature including, without limitation, representations as to the power, authority and standing of such parties to engage in the Proposed Transaction; the absence of material pending or threatened litigation and liabilities (contingent or otherwise) affecting the business of GVC or Mako in relation to the Proposed Transaction; the absence of any encumbrances of any kind and nature relating to the outstanding shares of EGA; the absence of any material default by the parties under any material contracts; and will also provide covenants and restrictions customary for transactions of this nature, including, without limitation, on the conduct of business by EGA during the period preceding the completion of the Proposed Transaction. The obligations of the parties to complete the Proposed Transaction in accordance with the Definitive Agreement will be subject to specified conditions precedent including, but not limited to, the completion of satisfactory due diligence by Mako, the formal approval of the definitive agreement and all ancillary matters related to the Proposed Transaction by Mako's Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Special Committee and the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). No approval by Mako's shareholders is expected to be required for the Proposed Transaction. The Proposed Transaction is expected to close by February 2025. Qualified Persons John Rust, SME, is a "qualified person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release on behalf of Mako. Mr. Rust has verified the data disclosed in this news release based on a review of the source noted and no limitations were imposed on his verifications process. Related Party Transaction and Formation of Special Committee As EGA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mako's controlling shareholder, Wexford,the Proposed Transaction is a related party transaction for Mako within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101- Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). As a result, the Board of Directors of Mako has appointed a special committee (the "Special Committee") to assist in the evaluation, negotiation and supervision of all matters relating to the Proposed Transaction and to consider and make recommendations to the Board. The Proposed Transaction will not have any impact on the percentage of securities of Mako beneficially owned or controlled by Wexford Capital LP.Pursuant to Section 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, Mako is exempt from obtaining a formal valuation and minority approval of its shareholders for the Proposed Transaction on the basis that the fair market value of the Proposed Transaction is below 25% of Mako's market capitalization as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. About Mako Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development and exploration company. The Company operates the high-grade San Albino gold mine in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, which ranks as one of the highest-grade open pit gold mines globally. Mako's primary objective is to operate San Albino profitably and fund exploration of prospective targets on its district-scale land package. The Company also owns 100% of the gold project Eagle Mountain in Guyana, South America. For further information about Mako, please contact Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer, at (917) 558-5289 or aleisman@makominingcorp.com, or visit our website at www.makominingcorp.com and our profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "outlook", "forecasts", "projection", "prospects", "strategy", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or terminology which states that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will", "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, the proposed non-binding terms and completion of the Proposed Transaction and expected customary terms to be included in the Definitive Agreement; the strengths, characteristics and expected benefits associated with the Proposed Transaction; obtaining all required recommendations of the Special Committee and approvals of the Mako Board and TSXV to complete the Proposed Transaction; Mako's plans to restart mining operations at the Moss mine upon completion of the Proposed Transaction once it has had an opportunity to optimize the mine plan and debottleneck the crushing plant expected to be achieved within a few months of closing of the Proposed Transaction; potential adjustments to the base US$4.9 million purchase price, increasing the purchase price under the Proposed Transaction by between US$0.5 and US$1 million; expectations regarding the timing for the Arizona court's ruling on the status of the two outstanding net smelter royalties at the Moss mine; and expectations regarding Mako's future business activities and operating performance. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent Mako's expectations, estimates and projections regarding possible future events or circumstances. The forward-looking information included in this news release is based on Mako's opinions, estimates and assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management currently believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is also based upon a number of assumptions, including the successful completion of due diligence by Mako, the negotiation and entering into of a Definitive Agreement and related ancillary documentation to complete the Proposed Transaction; the anticipated treatment of the outstanding net smelter return royalties currently in place at the Moss mine; receipt of all required approvals, including all required recommendations of the Special Committee and approvals of the Board of Mako and all regulatory approvals including the approval of TSXV, in a timely manner; assumptions in respect of current and future market conditions and the execution of Mako's business strategy; that operations at Mako's properties will continue without interruption; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated, intended or implied. Despite a careful process to prepare and review the forward-looking information, there can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information is also subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, failure to receive all required approvals, including regulatory and other approvals necessary to effect the Proposed Transaction; failure to enter into the Definitive Agreement; the net smelter royalties not being vested away upon determination of the Arizona court; that Mako and its shareholders will not realize the anticipated benefits following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, and other risks related to Mako and its business included in documents filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although Mako has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known or that they presently believe are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents Mako's expectations as of the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. Mako disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements. SOURCE: Mako Mining Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Eminent Gold Corp. (TSXV: EMNT) (OTCQB: EMGDF) ("the Company" or "Eminent") is pleased to provide an update on drilling progress at the Hot Springs Range Project in Nevada (see Figure 1 for location), along with key 2024 achievements marking a year of strategic advancements and substantial progress. Eminent has completed the first core hole of the maiden drill program at the Otis target within the Hot Springs Range Project ("HSRP") to an approximate depth of 500 meters. The drilling objective is to test the thesis that HSRP is a direct analogue to the prolific Getchell Trend (~50-million-ounce gold endowment1) 15 km across the Eden Valley in northcentral Nevada (Figure 2). Eminent is testing the hypothesis that the Eden Valley fault is an extension of the Getchell fault, which intersects the nearby Turquoise Ridge deposit1 (Figure 2), where 7.4 million ounces of gold have been produced at an average gold grade of 16.9 grams per tonne (g/t)2. The host rock being tested at HSRP is the Home Ranch Terrane, consisting of similar but slightly older rocks than those at Turquoise Ridge3, which consist of a strongly deformed sequence of basalt and andesite volcanics intercalated with strongly deformed limestone. Phase 1 specifically targets the intersection of the steeply dipping NE-oriented feeder faults near their convergence with both thrust faults and the Eden Valley fault within the Home Ranch Terrane (see Figure 3). Visual inspection of the drill core has revealed extensive alteration in the volcanic-dominated portion of the Home Ranch Terrane. The alteration consists of strong hematite, clay gouge, and silicification in the Home Ranch Terrane volcanic host rocks and adjoining deformed limestone (Figure 4). Most of the strong hematite alteration and clay gouge occurs in faulted volcanic rocks, whereas the dominant alteration in the limestone is silicification. Observations indicate that the first hole was parallel to one of the NE feeder faults, as indicated in Eminent's Controlled Source Audio Frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) model8, beneath a late Tertiary post-mineral basalt and a less deformed Permian sandstone (Figures 3 and 4). Assays from the first hole are pending and expected in January. The information obtained from this core provides a clear path for the second drillhole, which will target the intersection of NE faults with the NW Eden Valley fault as well as the thrust fault bounding the lower contact of the Home Ranch Terrane. Dan McCoy, Chief Geologist and Director commented: "The Hot Spring Range Project has never been drilled previously and represents a great opportunity to make a world-class discovery in Nevada due to its proximity to the 50 million-ounce Getchell Trend, similar host rocks, comparable geochemistry, and similar structural architecture as revealed by CSAMT geophysics and geologic mapping. We are very encouraged by the amount and intensity of alteration noted in the first drillhole and look forward to starting our second hole in early to mid-January." Key 2024 Milestones: Successfully raised $2.4 million, advancing key strategic initiatives. Acquired the Celts project within the Walker Lane Trend, a direct analogue to the nearby AngloGold Ashanti Silicon project, having a total gold resource of 4.2 million ounces 5 . . Launched the maiden drill program at the Hot Springs Range Project. Initiated the permitting process for the Gilbert South project within the Walker Lane Trend. Looking Ahead: Eminent is planning to drill all three of its key projects: HSRP, Gilbert South, and Celts in 2025 subject to additional financing. This plan represents our dedication to our portfolio approach for a new world-class gold discovery in Nevada defined through new concepts and maiden drill programs. Paul Sun, President and CEO of the Company commented: "This is an exciting time for the Company and our shareholders as we await the initial results of the first hole at Hot Springs Range. The target is significant; success could range from confirming structures to finding trace gold or significant gold intercepts. Although we did not cross the main structure, which will be drilled in our next hole, we did intersect key faults feeding off the structure and observed great alteration and the presence of fluids in the rock. We are preparing for a very active 2025, with plans to finance and drill the other two projects in the Company's portfolio. We are also excited to start expanding our visibility to investors through our partnership with Spark Newswire." The Company is pleased to announce it has entered into a marketing consulting services agreement (the "Spark Agreement") with Spark Newswire Inc. ("Spark") pursuant to which, among other things, Spark is to provide certain promotional services to the Company in accordance with Policy 3.4 - Investor Relations, Promotional and Market-Making Activities (the "Policy") of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). Spark's engagement is for an initial term of one month with the option for another month at the same monthly budget amount and will commence in January, 2024 (the "Initial Term"). Following the Initial Term, the Spark Agreement will automatically renew in one-month increments until cancelled with a written notice of seven days in accordance with its terms. During the Initial Term, the Company shall provide Spark with an active monthly budget of US$100,000. Following the Initial Term, the Company may elect to continue with an active monthly budget or switch to a maintenance monthly budget of US$50,000 that provides for reduced services. Spark, which operates out of Vancouver, British Columbia, provides consulting and capital market advisory services to public companies. Through Spark's engagement, the Company hopes to increase investor engagement and create more awareness for the Company. The appointment of Spark is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company has approved the grant of 1,350,000 incentive stock options to directors, officers, and consultants of the Company. The options vest 1/3 each six months following the grant date and are exercisable at a price of $0.45 for a period of 5 years. All scientific and technical information in this news release has been prepared by, or approved by Michael Dufresne, PGeo. Mr. Dufresne is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Figure 1. Eminent Project Location Map To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1937/235585_6dcc050df4975ac1_002full.jpg Figure 2. Location Map of HSRP project relative to the Getchell Trend. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1937/235585_6dcc050df4975ac1_003full.jpg Figure 3. Plan map of the Otis target showing the Mississipian limestone and volcanics of the Home Ranch Terrane, feeder faults and thrust faults7, area of elevated gold and arsenic in soils1, drill hole HSC002, and the cross section seen in Figure 4. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1937/235585_6dcc050df4975ac1_004full.jpg Figure 4. Drill section showing lithology and alteration of Eminent's first HSRP drillhole. Location of faults and lithology away from drillhole is interpreted from CSAMT geophysics. Reference 43-101 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1937/235585_6dcc050df4975ac1_005full.jpg 1. www.s25.q4cdn.com/322814910/files/doc_downloads/operations/ngm/Turquoise-Ridge-Technical-Report-March2024.pdf 2. www.barrick.com/English/operations/nevada-gold-mines/default.aspx 3. www.nbmg.unr.edu/staff/pdfs/CassinerioMuntean_TurqRidge_GSN2011.pdf 4. www.reports.anglogoldashanti.com/23/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AGA-RR23.pdf 5. Nevada Gold Mines. (2021, May 20). Investor Day Presentation. Barrick Gold Corporation. 6. Lane, T., Harvey, T., Moritz, R., Samari, H., & Breckenridge, L. (2021). Preliminary Economic Assessment NI 43-101 Technical Report Granite Creek Mine Project Humboldt County, Nevada, USA. Global Resource Engineering Ltd. 7. Jones, A.E. (1997): Geologic map of the Hot Spring Peak quadrangle and the southeastern part of the Little Poverty quadrangle, Nevada, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, scale 1:24,000 8. www.eminentgoldcorp.com/site/assets/files/5967/hotspringsrange-43-10120220808-final.pdf ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Sun CEO & Director About Eminent Gold Eminent Gold is a gold exploration company focused on creating shareholder value through the exploration and discovery of world-class gold deposits in Nevada. Its multidisciplinary team has had multiple successes in gold discoveries and brings expertise and new ideas to the Great Basin. The Company's exploration assets in the Great Basin include: Hot Springs Range, Gilbert South and Celts. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements made in this news release include the anticipated completion of the private placement and the use of proceeds from the private placement. Although Eminent Gold Corp. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, including the assumption that records and reports of historical work are accurate and correct, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward, to maintain its mineral tenures and concessions in good standing, to explore and develop the Company's projects or its other projects, to repay its debt and for general working capital purposes; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associates with mineral exploration and mining operations, future prices of gold, silver and other metals, changes in general economic conditions, accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates, the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the Company's projects and if obtained, to obtain such permits and consents in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the projects; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; and changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, aboriginal title claims and rights to consultation and accommodation, dependence on key management personnel and general competition in the mining industry. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235585 SOURCE: Eminent Gold Corp. LEEWARD CAPITAL CORP. ("Leeward" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent ("LOI") dated December 30, 2024 to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Burton Growers Ltd. ("Burton Growers"), a private company that owns a Health Canada Cannabis licensed greenhouse located in southern Alberta. Burton Growers has been granted a Cannabis Standard Processing, Standard Cultivation, and Sale for Medical Purposes licences standard license by Health Canada (the "License"). The License was received on November 29, 2024 and is granted for a five (5) year term. Burton Growers has not yet planted any Cannabis in the Greenhouse but it does intend to do so. Pursuant to the License (subject to Health Canada laws and regulations), Burton Growers is entitled to cultivate, process, and make direct sales through its website and otherwise. Through the license Burton Growers will be able to market and sell Cannabis produced by third parties. Burton Growers will also apply for an export license through which it will be able to export its Cannabis to foreign jurisdictions. Burton Growers is differentiated from many other Cannabis cultivators in that it is a true greenhouse (i.e. relies on the sun rather than costly lighting). The greenhouse is 25,000 square feet in area with an attached administration and processing facility of 6,000 square feet in area. The Burton Growers Greenhouse is located in the sunniest area of Canada and in an area of southern Alberta where there are many greenhouses producing various vegetable and fruit crops. Burton Growers believes it will have a competitive advantage over most other Cannabis producers as it will not have the large power costs faced by the "in-door grows". In addition, Burton Growers use of land costs is substantially less than other cultivators. The Greenhouse and Processing facility are located on lands owned by affiliates of Spencer Burton (a director of Burton Growers). As a result, the current rental cost for the land is $12,000 per year. In addition, Burton Growers expects to avoid the large carbon footprint of most Cannabis cultivators. Although it is not fully "green" at this point, Burton intends to proceed with a solar energy program which will see its electric power and heat come from the use of solar. This strategy is not only to reduce or eliminate the Burton Growers carbon footprint but also to reduce its cultivation costs. Burton Gowers recognizes the large effect the Federal excise tax and the Provincial taxes have on the viability on Cannabis cultivators in Canada. To mitigate this Burton Growers intends to focus on exporting its high THC product and as well grow Cannabis with low THC levels (i.e. high CBD) with a focus on medicinal properties. Through this the excise tax can be significantly reduced. Although Burton Growers will cultivate Cannabis under the License, its business model is largely focused on being a distributor of others' Cannabis. Many micro-growers have difficulty getting their product to market or if they do get it to market they see a large discount in the price received. Burton Growers will be structured to distribute and market their products for them. This marketing and distribution arm of Burton Growers is intended to be a core activity of Burton Growers. Unlike many other companies holding a "Standard License", Burton Growers does not intend to be reliant on cultivation activities alone. Burton Growers has retained individuals experienced in marketing for large companies in Canada and through-out Europe. Their marketing skill-set includes the launch of new products and new brands. In addition, Burton Growers has on staff individuals through which it will access their experience: As cultivators, processors, and distributors of Cannabis products; Ensuring Health Canada Cannabis regulatory compliance; As Exporters of Cannabis products; Relative to legal matters including maintaining its public listings, obtaining Cannabis licenses, corporate transactions, and obtaining export permits. Using these skill sets, Burton Growers will also be able to assess "distressed" Cannabis companies and potentially make acquisitions while not incurring large due diligence and legal costs. Burton Growers also has the option to purchase a 160 acre parcel of land in central Alberta. If this option is exercised Burton Growers intends to apply to Health Canada for a Cannabis license for cultivation as an "out-door" grow. The Transaction Pursuant to the LOI, the Company will issue to the shareholders of Burton Growers, prior to completion of the minimum Financing and roll back described below, approximately 2,163,398,607 common treasury shares in exchange for all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Burton Growers (the "Transaction"). The Transaction can be concluded, if necessary, upon acceptance of greater than 67% of all of the shares of Burton Growers in consideration for the delivery of up to 2,163,398,607 Leeward common shares for 100% of the common shares of Burton Growers (the "Purchase Shares"). In essence, Leeward will deliver 21,633,986 common treasury shares for each 1% of Burton Growers common shares acquired. All outstanding stock options of Leeward will be cancelled. In addition, pursuant to the LOI the current mining assets and associated debt in Leeward will be sold and transferred to a third party purchaser ("MiningCo"). Leeward shall convey the Pistol and Nithi resource properties (the "Resource Properties") to MiningCo in consideration of: MiningCo assuming the debts of Leeward as of the closing including the promissory notes (approximately $396,600) (the "Mining Liabilities") but not including the debts and liabilities arising after December 31, 2024 as part of the Transaction including the public companies reporting and maintenance costs); MiningCo indemnifying Leeward for the payables (approximately $37,811) and any liabilities relating to the Resource Properties (the "Payables"); and the payment of all legal fees incurred by Leeward for the transactions described in the LOI. At the option of Leeward, prior to closing it can convert up to $30,000 of the Payables (or part of it) to Leeward shares at a price of $0.01 per share. As consideration for assuming the Payables and the Mining Liabilities, Leeward will pay to MiningCo $50,000 less any amounts Leeward was required to pay on same during sixth months after closing. Additional conditions, including the execution of a formal agreement, the receipt of any necessary shareholder approvals and receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals, must be met in order for the Transaction to close. The proposed Transaction will be a reverse takeover of Leeward by Burton Growers and their respective shareholders. The proposed Transaction is not considered to be a related party transaction. Concurrent Financing In conjunction with the closing of the Transaction, the Company intends to complete a financing by way of private placement for aggregate minimum proceeds of $500,000 and up to a maximum of $1,000,000 (the "Financing"). It is anticipated the Financing will proceed as a sale of Leeward Common Shares for $0.001 (post Roll Back as discussed below at an effective price of one cent ($0.01)). The Financing will not be completed unless the Transaction is simultaneously closed and the Leeward Common Shares (including the shares issued through the Financing) are approved for listing on either the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") or the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE"). Preferred Shares Conversion Upon closing it is anticipated that current Burton Growers' arm's length preferred shareholders are anticipated to convert their preferred shares to Leeward common shares resulting in the issuance of approximately of 390 million Leeward common shares. Capitalization and Roll Back As of the date hereof, Leeward has 232,445,623 common shares issued and outstanding. As a prerequisite to closing the Transaction, the Company shall complete a share consolidation of its outstanding common shares on a 10:1 basis (the "Roll Back"), resulting in 23,244,562 outstanding common shares of Leeward immediately prior to closing. The anticipated capital structure of the Company after closing of the Transaction and the Financing will be approximately as follows: Leeward Shares Private Placement Percentage Post Roll Back Common Shares $500,000 $1,000,000 Min Priv Placement Max Priv Placement Min Private Placement Max Private Placement Leeward Common Shares Currently Outstanding 232,445,623 23,244,562 23,244,562 Post Transaction and Financing Current Common Shareholders 232,445,623 7.1% 6.1% 23,244,562 23,244,562 Burton Class "A" Shareholders 2,163,398,607 65.8% 57.1% 216,339,861 216,339,861 Burton Preferred Shareholders 390,000,000 11.9% 10.3% 39,000,000 39,000,000 SUB TOTAL 2,785,844,230 Private Placement (at $0.001) 500,000,000 1,000,000,000 15.2% 26.4% 50,000,000 100,000,000 TOTAL 3,285,844,230 3,785,844,230 328,584,423 378,584,423 Exchange Listing The Leeward's common shares are currently not trading on any stock exchange. It is a condition of the Financing that the Leeward common shares be trading on one of the TSXV or CSE. Leeward, through the assistance of Burton Growers, is proceeding with the necessary application to the CSE for listing and intends to also pursue a listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the OTC Market Group markets. Go Forward Management After closing of the Transaction, senior management of the Company will be members of the current management team of Burton Growers. It is anticipated that Spencer Burton will be CEO of Leeward. Further information regarding the proposed management and directors will be included in a follow-up new release. Selected Financial Information Burton Growers is currently preparing financial statements which are expected to be included in the information circular being prepared in connection with the proposed Transaction. Further details will be provided in future news releases. For further information: Leeward Capital Corp.: Phone: (403) 863-6034 Email: pnk574@hotmail.com Burton Growers Ltd.: Phone: 403 875 9659 Email: burtongrowers7@gmail.com Disclosure Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including, if applicable, disinterested shareholder approval. Where applicable, the transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Such information includes, without limitation, information regarding the completion of the proposed acquisition of Burton Growers and the Financing; and the anticipated business plan of the resulting issuer subsequent to completion of the transactions described herein. Although the Company believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Information disclosed herein regarding the Company is provided by the Company. Information disclosed herein regarding Burton Growers is provided by Burton Growers. The parties have not verified the information provided by the other parties. Forward looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, forecast, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Leeward cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Leeward are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: Leeward's ability to complete the proposed transaction; the state of the financial markets for Leeward's equity securities; the state of the market for gold or other minerals that may be produced generally by the resulting issuer in the event the transaction is completed; recent market volatility; the Company's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that Leeward is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to the Company's most recent annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through the Company's page on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. SOURCE: Leeward Capital Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com EQ Inc. (TSXV:EQ) ("EQ Works" or the "Company"), a leader in AI and data driven software and solutions is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Kahn as the Company's interim Chief Financial Officer, effective January 2, 2025. Mr. Kahn is a highly qualified financial professional with over 20 years of experience in accounting, compliance, corporate finance and financial management. Mr. Kahn has served in various senior financial roles in private and public listed technology companies in North America. Most recently, Mr. Kahn served as Chief Financial Officer of Distinct Dermatology Inc. Mr. Kahn will fill the role previously served by Peter Kanniah, who will be leaving to pursue other opportunities. "We are excited to welcome Michael to our leadership team, his knowledge and prior experience working with technology companies makes him an extremely valuable addition to our leadership team", said Geoffrey Rotstein, President and Chief Executive Officer of EQ Works. "We also would like to take the opportunity to thank Mr. Kanniah for his contribution to EQ Works. He has been an important member of our team and we are very appreciative of all that he has done for the Company." About EQ Works EQ Works (www.eqworks.com) enables businesses to understand, predict, and influence customer behaviour. Using unique data sets, advanced analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, EQ Works creates actionable intelligence for businesses to attract, retain, and grow the customers that matter most. The Company's proprietary SaaS platform mines insights from movement and geospatial data, enabling businesses to close the loop between digital and real-world consumer actions. Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on management's current expectations and are subject to known and unknown uncertainties and risks, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by such forward-looking statements. EQ Inc. is under no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein should material facts change due to new information, future events or otherwise. EQ Inc. Geoffrey Rotstein, President and Chief Executive Officer 1235 Bay Street, Suite 401 | Toronto, Ontario | M5R 3K4 press@eqworks.com SOURCE: EQ Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Trojan Gold Inc. (CSE: TGII) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed a non-brokered private placement of units ("Units") through the issuance of 1,454,452 Units at a price of $0.05 per Unit for total gross proceeds of $72,722.62. The consideration was the settlement of debts owed by the Company to debtholders in the amount of $72,722.62. The Units are composed of one common share in the capital of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one additional common share in the capital of the Company for a period of 24 months from the closing date at an exercise price of $0.10. All securities comprising the Units are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period from the closing date. No finders' fees were paid in connection with the issuance of the Units. About Trojan Gold Inc. Trojan is an active Ontario-based prospect generator junior exploration company, led by a team of professionals having exploration, engineering, project financing and permitting experience. Trojan has accumulated land positions in the Hemlo Gold Camp and Shebandowan Greenstone Belt which in management's view represent mineral exploration potential. For further information on the Company, please visit www.trojangold.com. Trojan is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol (CSE: TGII), on the OTC Pink Market under the ticker symbol TRJGF and on the Frankfurt Exchange under the symbol KC1. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions, and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. Forward-looking information contained in this press release includes, but is not limited to, potential future exploration potential and success of such exploration activities. Where the Company expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is based on assumptions made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. Such assumptions include, without limitation, that sufficient capital will be available to the Company that will allow it to undertake exploration activities on its properties. However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected, or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, the impact of the recovery post COVID 19 pandemic and its impact on precious metals; there being no assurance that the exploration program will result in expanded mineral resources; risks and uncertainties inherent to any mineral resource estimates; receipt of necessary approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future gold and other metal prices; accidents, labour disputes and shortages; environmental and other risks of the mining industry. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as at the date hereof and are based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations, and opinions of management on such date. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise any such forward-looking statements or any forward-looking statements contained in any other documents whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required under applicable securities law. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties, and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235520 SOURCE: Trojan Gold Inc. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. La Granja Lake Nona Is Now Serving Delicious, Affordable Latin Cuisine in Orlando. One of La Granja Restaurants is in Lake Nona which offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes, perfect for families looking for fresh, homestyle meals at great prices. La Granja Restaurants is bringing its beloved Latin cuisine to Lake Nona, Florida, and it's located at 10536 Moss Park Rd #200, Orlando, FL 32832, near the corner of Moss Park Rd and Narcoossee Rd. Click here for directions. This new addition to the La Granja family offers the same delicious, affordable, and homestyle meals that have made the chain a staple for Latin food lovers across Orlando. With a menu full of savory options, from the signature rotisserie chicken to succulent steaks and fresh seafood, La Granja promises a dining experience that appeals to all tastes. La Granja is known for its commitment to fresh ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and providing value for families. One of the standout options at the Lake Nona location is the La Granja Bowl - a hearty, savory dish that includes juicy grilled chicken or meats served over a bed of seasoned rice, beans, and vegetables. For those who prefer a more traditional meal, the restaurant offers a family meal plan that includes rotisserie chicken, beans, and rice, all for an affordable price. It's the perfect option for a quick and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. In addition to the iconic rotisserie chicken, La Granja Lake Nona also serves a variety of grilled meats, including steaks, pork, and seafood. Each dish is prepared with care and seasoned to perfection, ensuring a flavorful experience with every bite. With an emphasis on Latin American flavors, the menu also features a variety of traditional sides, including yuca, tostones, and black beans. Whether diners prefer a lighter dish or a heartier meal, there is something for everyone. The restaurant is designed with families in mind, providing a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy a meal together. La Granja's dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal following across the state, and the Lake Nona location is no exception. A Convenient Spot for Lake Nona Residents The Lake Nona location is ideally situated to serve the greater Orlando area. Whether dining in, taking out, or ordering delivery, La Granja Lake Nona offers a convenient option for residents who crave Latin comfort food. With ample seating for families and fast service for those on the go, it's the perfect destination for lunch, dinner, or a family gathering. For those interested in exploring the full menu, La Granja offers a variety of options for every craving. The restaurant's commitment to offering fresh, flavorful food at affordable prices for a delightful experience. View the full menu here. Place an order for pickup or delivery. Call (321) 352-7148 . La Granja Lake Nona is open daily, offering dine-in, takeout, and delivery options to meet the needs of the Lake Nona community. SOURCE: La Granja Restaurants View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - The BC Bud Corporation (CSE: BCBC) (OTC Pink: BCBCF) (FSE: W04) ("The BC Bud Co" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has appointed Alyssa Barry to the Board of Directors. Alyssa Barry is the President of Alliance Advisors Investor Relations, joining through the 2024 acquisition of irlabs, a leading IR firm she co-founded in 2021. With 20 years of capital markets and investor relations experience, Alyssa's expertise spans shareholder activism, corporate governance, and taking companies public in Canada and the US. She has raised over $1 billion in capital and previously served as Corporate Secretary of Artis REIT (TSX: AX.UN). In 2024, Alyssa was named one of Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 by the Women's Executive Network (WXN) and recognized in Business in Vancouver's Top 40 Under 40. The Company has also accepted the resignation of Brian Taylor from the Board of Directors effective December 30, 2024. "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Alyssa Barry to our Board of Directors," stated Brayden Sutton, CEO. "Her extensive experience in capital markets, corporate governance, and shareholder activism will be invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve. On behalf of all shareholders, I can say that we feel incredibly fortunate to have someone of Alyssa's caliber and pedigree join us at this pivotal moment." "I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Brian Taylor for his outstanding contributions to The BC Bud Co. We wish him continued success in all his future endeavors. As we embark on this new chapter of leadership, we are excited for the future we will build together." About The BC Bud Co. The B.C. Bud Co. is a house of brands created by industry professionals who are passionate about the user experience. On behalf of the board of directors of The BC Bud Co. Brayden Sutton Chief Executive Officer and Director Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235617 SOURCE: The BC Bud Corporation Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Primary Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV: HDRO) (the "Company" or "Primary") is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Jelena Veljovic as Chief Financial Officer of the Company effective immediately. Ms. Veljovic replaces Mr. Joel Leonard, who has served as CFO since September 2020. The Company wishes to thank Mr. Leonard for fulfilling that role and to express its appreciation for his service. Ms. Veljovic provides accounting services to public companies through Treewalk Consulting Inc., a growing professional services advisory firm in Vancouver, British Columbia. Prior to her time at Treewalk Consulting Inc., Ms. Veljovic worked as an accounting technician with Focus LLP, a public accounting firm in the Calgary, AB market, supporting with taxation services for private companies and individuals. The Company also announces the granting of 150,000 incentive stock options to Ms. Veljovic, which will vest in four equal tranches over 12 months, and the grant of 65,000 incentive stock options to a consultant of the Company, which will vest immediately. Each incentive stock option is exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price $0.48 for a period of five years from the date of grant. About Primary Hydrogen Corp. Primary Hydrogen Corp. is a natural hydrogen exploration company with an extensive portfolio of properties covering over 210 square kilometres across Canada including the Blakelock and Hopkins projects in Ontario, the Mary's Harbour project in Labrador, the Point Rosie project in Newfoundland, and the Crooked Amphibolite, Coquihalla, and Cogburn projects in BC. The Company also holds the Arthur Lake copper project in British Columbia. -- Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, inherent risks associated with the mining industry and the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties, stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations, general market and industry conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion & analysis. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235629 SOURCE: Primary Hydrogen Corp. MIAMI, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The outsourcing revolution continues to reshape the accounting landscape, as U.S. businesses increasingly turn to outsource accounting services streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance financial precision. As businesses of all sizes face mounting pressure to stay competitive in an unpredictable economy, the demand for these services has reached unprecedented levels. Outsource accounting services offer businesses an opportunity to leverage specialized expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and scalable solutions without the overhead costs associated with in-house accounting teams. From startups to large enterprises, organizations are discovering how this model enhances financial management while allowing them to focus on their core operations. A Booming Outsourced Accounting Services Industry The outsourced accounting services industry is experiencing significant growth as businesses continue to prioritize financial efficiency and focus on core operations. Companies are increasingly turning to outsourced services to streamline their financial processes, enhance accuracy, and reduce costs. As the demand for specialized financial expertise rises, this sector is expanding rapidly, particularly in regions like the United States, where businesses are adapting to dynamic economic conditions. Benefits of Outsource Accounting Services Cost Efficiency: Businesses save on salaries, benefits, and office space by outsourcing accounting tasks to professional firms. Access to Expertise: Certified professionals bring deep knowledge of tax laws, regulations, and industry best practices. Scalability: Outsourcing allows companies to adjust financial services based on changing needs, ensuring efficiency. Enhanced Focus: Delegating financial tasks helps businesses concentrate on innovation and growth. Technology Integration: Providers use advanced tools like cloud-based platforms and AI to ensure accuracy and security. Key Services in High Demand Outsource accounting services enclose a broad spectrum of functions, including: Bookkeeping: Daily transaction recording and reconciliation. Daily transaction recording and reconciliation. Payroll Management: Processing employee wages, tax filings, and compliance. Processing employee wages, tax filings, and compliance. Tax Preparation and Filing: Ensuring accurate and timely submission of federal and state taxes. Ensuring accurate and timely submission of federal and state taxes. Financial Reporting: Generating monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for better decision-making. Technology-Driven Transformation Technology plays a pivotal role in the growth of the outsource accounting service sector. Cloud-based accounting platforms, AI-driven automation, and real-time reporting tools are empowering providers to deliver efficient and secure services. Businesses also benefit from 24/7 access to their financial data, ensuring transparency and control over outsourced processes. "Outsourcing accounting services is revolutionizing how businesses manage their financial operations. By collaborating with experienced providers, companies can enhance efficiency and concentrate on their core goals," said Ajay Mehta, CEO of IBN Technologies. "This approach goes beyond just reducing costs-it's about gaining a competitive advantage through accuracy and flexibility." Addressing Security Concerns As financial information becomes increasingly digitized, concerns about data security remain top of mind for business owners. Outsource accounting service providers are addressing these concerns by implementing tough cybersecurity measures, encryption protocols, and compliance with regulations like GDPR and CCPA. A Solution for Every Business IBN Technologies Outsource accounting services are not limited to a specific industry. Businesses in retail, healthcare, technology, real estate, manufacturing, and professional services are reaping the rewards of this innovative approach to financial management. Whether a startup seeking streamlined bookkeeping or a large corporation requiring complex tax strategies, outsourcing providers cater to diverse needs. Book 30 Minute Free Consultation about outsourcing accounting- https://www.ibntech.com/free-consultation/?pr=prnewswire A Bright Future for Outsource Accounting Services The growth trajectory of outsource accounting services is a testament to their value proposition. As businesses strive for efficiency and resilience, the appeal of outsourcing financial tasks will continue to rise. "At IBN Technologies, our goal is to help businesses optimize their financial operations for greater success," said Mehta. "Outsourcing isn't just a service; it's a strategic partnership that delivers measurable results and drives business growth." About IBN Technologies IBN Technologies LLC, an outsourcing specialist with 25 years of experience, serves clients across the United States, United Kingdom, Middle East, and India. Renowned for its expertise in RPA, Intelligent process automation includes AP Automation services like P2P, Q2C, and Record-to-Report. IBN Technologies provides solutions compliant with ISO 9001:2015, 27001:2022, CMMI-5, and GDPR standards. The company has established itself as a leading provider of IT, KPO, and BPO outsourcing services in finance and accounting, including CPAs, hedge funds, alternative investments, banking, travel, human resources, and retail industries. It offers customized solutions that drive efficiency and growth. Contact Details: Pradip sales@ibntech.com +1 - 844 - 644 - 8440 USA: IBN Technologies LLC 66 West Flagler Street Suite 900 Miami, FL 33130 India: Global Delivery Centre IBN Technologies Limited Kohinoor House, 2nd floor, 691/A/1B, Plot no. 7, Bibwewadi Road, Pune-411037 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2581946/IBN_Technologies_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/outsourced-accounting-service-the-new-standard-for-business-finance-industry-302340643.html 15,500-Square-Foot Facility on 6.30 Acres Offers Turnkey Potential for Healthcare, Education, or Hospitality Redevelopment Investors and developers now have a unique chance to acquire a versatile property with endless potential. Located at 107 Ridgeview Drive in Oconee, Georgia, this expansive 15,500-square-foot building sits on 6.30 acres, making it an ideal candidate for redevelopment. With a history as both a school and a skilled nursing facility, this site offers flexibility for a range of industries, including healthcare, education, and hospitality. The property's institutional zoning and strategic location near Highway 24 provide excellent visibility and accessibility. Situated between Milledgeville, Sandersville, and Dublin, it serves as a central hub for regional traffic. Dual road frontage on Hwy 272 and Oconee Boat Lane further enhances its appeal for various commercial applications. Currently vacant and offered as-is, the building is a blank slate for transformation. Developers can take advantage of its spacious layout and prime location to create healthcare facilities such as medical centers or hospice care. The property's original use as a school also makes it suitable for redevelopment into an educational institution, whether a private school, training center, or community college extension. For those seeking opportunities in the hospitality sector, this property's layout and acreage are perfect for a boutique hotel or bed and breakfast. Its tranquil surroundings and easy highway access make it an excellent destination for tourists and visitors. Alternatively, mixed-use development, combining retail, office, and residential spaces, could unlock significant value given the size and zoning of the property. This property's strategic location, accessibility, and redevelopment potential make it a standout investment. The institutional zoning supports a variety of uses, allowing developers to tailor the site to meet market demands. The building's history and structure provide a cost-effective foundation for new projects, reducing time and expenses for construction. Bidding for this property will take place online only. The auction opens on January 9, 2025, and closes on January 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Interested parties are encouraged to register early and explore this exciting opportunity. For those wishing to view the property, it is open for inspection with limited access to the interior available by appointment. Dempsey Auction Company representatives are available for private showings. To schedule a tour or request more information, contact Chase Tolbert at 706.266.0717 or ctolbert@dempseyauction.com. This property represents a unique opportunity to invest in a prime location with significant redevelopment potential. Whether you're in the healthcare, education, or hospitality industry, 107 Ridgeview Drive offers a solid foundation for growth and innovation. For more details or to register for bidding, visit Dempsey Auction Company. Contact Information Chase Tolbert Vice President of Online Sales ctolbert@dempseyauction.com 7062660707 Related Video https://vimeo.com/1036133833 SOURCE: Dempsey Auction Co View the original press release on accesswire.com "Commercial amino acids are key ingredients used in industries like food, medicine, and animal feed. They help make protein supplements, medicines, and improve animal feed nutrition. With growing demand in healthcare and food production, the market for these amino acids is steadily increasing." BOSTON, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest study, the demand for Commercial Amino Acids was valued at $30.1 billion in 2023. It is expected to grow from $31.8 billion in 2024 to $42.8 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2024 through 2029. This report gives an overview of the global commercial amino acids market, covering its size, growth, key product types, and applications. It analyzes the factors driving the market, challenges, and opportunities, focusing on uses like animal feed, food flavoring, and special applications. The report also profiles leading companies, examines regional differences, and predicts upcoming market trends. Interesting facts: Amino Acids as Flavor Boosters : In addition to helping build proteins, some amino acids, like glutamic acid, are used to enhance the flavor of foods. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a well-known flavoring, is a form of glutamic acid mixed with sodium. : In addition to helping build proteins, some amino acids, like glutamic acid, are used to enhance the flavor of foods. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a well-known flavoring, is a form of glutamic acid mixed with sodium. Genetic Engineering Innovations: New advances in genetic engineering have made it possible to create microorganisms that produce amino acids with specific traits. This technology allows for the creation of amino acids tailored for different industrial uses. Factors contributing to the market's growth include: Rising use of amino acids in nutraceuticals: The increasing use of amino acids in nutraceuticals reflects their growing popularity in health products and supplements. Amino acids aid muscle growth, energy, and overall health, driving higher demand for nutraceuticals as people prioritize their well-being. Expanding uses of amino acids across multiple industries: Amino acids are increasingly used across the food, animal feed, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals industries due to their health benefits and ability to enhance products and processes. Their applications are growing as new uses are discovered. Growing population driving the demand for amino acids: The growing global population is increasing the need for food, nutrition, and healthcare products. Amino acids are essential for improving food quality, animal feed, and supplements, driving higher demand for better nutrition and health solutions. Amino acids in cancer treatment: Amino acids are being studied for cancer treatment because they support cell health and boost the immune system. Some may also make treatments like chemotherapy more effective and help slow cancer growth. Request a Sample Copy of the Commercial Amino Acids Report Report Synopsis Report Metric Details Base year considered 2023 Forecast period considered 2024-2029 Base year market size $30.1 billion Market size forecast $42.8 billion Growth rate CAGR of 6.1% from 2024 to 2029 Segment covered By Product Type, Application, and Region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LATAM, and Rest of the World (RoW) Market drivers Rising use of amino acids in nutraceuticals. Expanding uses of amino acids across multiple industries. Growing population driving the demand for amino acids. Amino acids in cancer treatment. This report addresses the following key questions: 1.What is the projected size and growth rate of the commercial amino acids market? The market is projected to grow from $30.1 billion in 2023 to $42.8 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% during the forecast period. 2.Which market segments are covered in the report? The commercial amino acids market is segmented based on product type, application, and region. 3.Which application segment will dominate the market in 2029? The animal feed application is expected to contribute the highest share in the market in 2029. 4.Which regional market is growing the fastest? Asia-Pacific has the fastest growing market. Leading companies in the market include: ADM Ajinomoto Co. Inc. Balchem Corp. China National Bluestar (Group) Co. Ltd. Evonik Industries Ag Kemin Industries Inc. Kyowa Hakko Bio Co. Ltd. Novus International Inc. Sichuan Tongsheng Amino Acid Co. Ltd. Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. Vedan International (Holdings) Ltd. Directly purchase a copy of the report from BCC Research. For further information on these reports or to purchase one, please contact info@bccresearch.com . About BCC Research BCC Research market research reports provide objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities. Our experienced industry analysts' goal is to help readers make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype. Contact Us Corporate HQ: 50 Milk St., Ste. 16, Boston, MA 02109, USA Email: info@bccresearch.com, Phone: +1 781-489-7301 For media inquiries, email press@bccresearch.com or visit our media page for access to our market research library. Any data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183242/BCC_Research_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/commercial-amino-acids-surge-with-6-1-cagr-growth-bcc-research-302340639.html Oracle Health Secures Top Spot in Australia's 2025 EHR Rankings for Excellence in Innovation and Interoperability Black Book Research, a leading independent market research firm specializing in healthcare technology, has announced the findings of its 2025 Global Healthcare IT Rankings. The report provides an in-depth analysis of electronic health record (EHR) adoption, trends, and vendor performance in Australia. The results underscore the significant progress Australia has made in digital health transformation and highlight the vendors delivering exceptional client experiences and user satisfaction. EHR Adoption in Australia: Progress and Innovation Australia has been a late adopter compared to some developed nations, but substantial progress has been made in recent years. Nearly all Australians now have a digital health record, enabled by the national My Health Record system, which, as of November 2024, has registered over 24.1 million Australians, with more than 99% of records containing data. This system has supported the delivery of over 118.2 million telehealth services, showcasing the shift toward patient-centric, technology-driven care. Government investments exceeding $1.1 billion over four years, as outlined in the 2023-24 Federal Budget, are further modernizing the system, with a focus on interoperability, data sharing, and seamless integration across healthcare sectors. These efforts aim to ensure 100% healthcare interoperability by 2027, enabling the seamless exchange of patient data across all care settings. Digital health applications, including telehealth, remote monitoring, and mobile health tools, are increasingly prevalent, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing demand for patient-centric care. Mobile health app downloads in Australia have risen by 150% between 2022 and 2024, reflecting the strong demand for digital health solutions. Australia's 2025 Top EHR Vendors by User Experience Ratings Based on surveys assessing 18 key performance indicators, Black Book Research has released its rankings of the leading EHR vendors in Australia for 2025. Topping the list is Oracle Health, followed by MEDITECH Expanse and Altera Digital Health. Other notable vendors in the rankings include IQVIA ARCUS Air, Telstra Kyra Clinical, NTT Data, Epic Systems, Philips TASY, InterSystems TrakCare, and Orion Health. These vendors have been recognized for their performance in areas such as interoperability, user satisfaction, and client support, highlighting their contributions to Australia's evolving digital health landscape. Oracle Health, previously known as Cerner, has emerged as the top-performing vendor in Australia's 2025 Healthcare IT Rankings. Clients surveyed by Black Book Research praised Oracle Health for its robust interoperability, comprehensive platform design, and specialized support for oncology care workflows. A standout example of its success is the implementation at Alfred Health in Victoria, where the system has effectively integrated clinical and administrative workflows, enhanced care coordination, and improved operational efficiency by 25% across multiple facilities. Respondents also highlighted Oracle Health's ability to tailor its global solutions to the specific needs of Australian healthcare providers. This adaptability has been particularly impactful in supporting complex multi-site deployments and addressing specialized care requirements such as oncology, solidifying Oracle Health's position as a leader in the country's healthcare IT landscape. The report highlights key vendors and their notable achievements in advancing Australia's digital health landscape: MEDITECH Expanse was highly rated for its robust data management capabilities and effective support for clinical workflow optimization. Survey feedback highlighted its deployment at Western Health in Victoria, where the platform has streamlined access to patient data across facilities, enabling more efficient decision-making and improving operational performance by 30%. Respondents noted the platform's integration of advanced analytics as a significant contributor to its high satisfaction scores. Altera Digital Health received positive feedback for its cloud-based EHR solutions, particularly in regional and remote healthcare settings. Clients in areas like Gippsland, Victoria, and South Australia Health reported improvements in access to care and telehealth integration enabled by Altera's systems. In Gippsland, telehealth services grew by 40%, addressing the challenges of rural healthcare delivery, including resource allocation and connectivity issues. Telstra Health was recognized for its focus on interoperability and its early adoption of FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standards. Survey respondents from clients like Queensland Health highlighted the Kyra Clinical solution, which facilitates real-time data sharing across hospital networks and virtual care systems. Telstra's collaboration with Smile Digital Health to implement an FHIR-first Health Data Platform in Australia and New Zealand was noted as a significant step toward enhancing vendor-neutral interoperability in the region. InterSystems TrakCare achieved high ratings for its ability to provide unified healthcare information platforms with strong interoperability features. Clients such as St John of God Health Care and Epworth HealthCare cited improvements in care coordination and workflow efficiency across multiple facilities. Surveyed users particularly valued TrakCare's adaptability to diverse clinical workflows and its support for seamless data exchange in multi-site healthcare systems. The rankings and feedback demonstrate how these vendors are contributing to the evolving healthcare IT landscape in Australia. Respondents consistently cited improvements in interoperability, workflow efficiency, and access to care as key outcomes of their EHR implementations. These findings underline the importance of tailored, user-driven solutions in supporting healthcare providers across diverse care settings. The Australian government's emphasis on interoperability and patient-centric care has accelerated EHR adoption, with vendors investing heavily in compliance, telehealth capabilities, and AI-powered analytics. According to Black Book Research, these advancements have positioned Australia as a global leader in digital health innovation. "Digital health in Australia has entered a transformative phase," said Black Book Research CEO Doug Brown. "Vendors that prioritize seamless integration, robust client support, and innovative solutions are emerging as key players in shaping the country's healthcare landscape." About Black Book Research Black Book Research is a globally recognized authority in healthcare IT market analysis, delivering impartial and meticulously curated client satisfaction surveys. Renowned for its rigorous and unbiased methodology, Black Book provides comprehensive evaluations of vendor performance, adoption trends, and technological advancements worldwide. Since 2007, Black Book has been at the forefront of assessing vendor satisfaction in Australia, utilizing a robust, independent framework that analyzes 18 dynamic key performance indicators. Over the past decade, input from more than 7,000 participants - including Australian hospitals, physician practices, government agencies, and public health organizations - has shaped these evaluations, ensuring unparalleled depth and precision in capturing the nation's evolving healthcare IT landscape. For further details, visit BlackBookMarketResearch.com. SOURCE: Black Book Research View the original press release on accesswire.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Sol Strategies Ltd. (CSE: HODL) ("Sol Strategies" or the "Company"), a publicly traded Canadian holding company focused on investments within the Solana blockchain and ecosystem, today announced the completion of its definitive agreement to acquire three blockchain validators and certain assets related to the validators from Orangefin Ventures LLC ("Orangefin"), a blockchain infrastructure company specializing in validator operations and staking services (the "Acquisition") as previously disclosed in the Company's December 20, 2024 news release. The integration of Orangefin's validator network and operational expertise is expected to deliver immediate value to Sol Strategies by enhancing its validator capacity and driving sustainable staking revenue growth. The Company plans to maintain Orangefin's high operational standards while leveraging its resources to expand its footprint within the Solana ecosystem further. The acquired validators operate on the Solana, Solana Testnet, and Arch Testnet networks. Post closing of the Acquisition, Sol Strategies will have increased its staked SOL to 1,505,145 SOL (CAD $440,249,107) across its validator operations, of which Sol Strategies owns 142,801 SOL. Post-Acquisition, Sol Strategies will manage the staked SOL across its validators as follows: 259,033 SOL (CAD $72,672,718) on Sol Strategies' proprietary validator, of which 142,684 SOL is delegated by the Company. 677,879 SOL (CAD $190,181,597) on Sol Strategies' recently acquired Cogent Crypto validator. 632,302 SOL (CAD $177,394,792) on Sol Strategies' recently acquired Orangefin Ventures' Solana validator. This combined portfolio enhances Sol Strategies' revenue streams, delivering predictable staking income and further solidifying its position as a leading infrastructure provider in the Solana ecosystem. *The above Canadian dollar (CAD) amounts are based on prices and foreign exchange rates quoted by Coinbase (https://www.coinbase.com/converter/sol/cad and www.stakewiz.com as at 3:29 pm ET on December 30, 2024. Pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreement, Sol Strategies has acquired a 100% ownership interest in the validators and all ancillary rights and assets required for the management of the validators (the "Purchased Assets"). In consideration for the Purchased Assets, the Company (i) has paid USDC$750,000 on closing of the Acquisition, (ii) has issued USD$750,000 in common shares of Sol Strategies (each, a "Common Share") (valued at a price of CAD $2.14 per Common Share for a total of 503,621 Common Shares) on closing of the Acquisition, and (iii) will issue US$5,000,000 in additional Common Shares (valued at the trading price per Common Share at the time of issuance) in six equal tranches every six months over a period of three years from the date hereof. The Acquisition also includes performance-based milestones that align the interests of the Orangefin team with those of Sol Strategies and its shareholders. In connection with the Acquisition terms, Max Kaplan joined Sol Strategies as the new Head of Staking. Mr. Kaplan is the former Senior Director of Engineering at Kraken and brings a proven track record in scaling high-performance systems, optimizing operations, and driving innovation in cryptocurrency infrastructure. His expertise in DevOps, blockchain, and high-frequency trading will be pivotal in advancing Sol Strategies' staking operations and maximizing the potential of its expanded validator network. Effective immediately, Sol Strategies has assumed full operational control of Orangefin's validators, following the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange and the announcement of today's completed Acquisition. Leah Wald, CEO of Sol Strategies, stated: "The completion of the Orangefin acquisition represents a transformative moment for Sol Strategies. By integrating Orangefin's assets and leadership, we are not only expanding our footprint within the Solana ecosystem but also taking a significant step forward in our strategy to scale validator operations and unlock the full potential of decentralized finance infrastructure. We're excited about the synergies this acquisition creates and look forward to the value it will bring to our shareholders." About Sol Strategies Sol Strategies Inc. (CSE: HODL) is a publicly traded Canadian company actively investing in and providing infrastructure for the Solana blockchain ecosystem. The Company focuses on validator operations, staking rewards, and strategic investments in Solana-based projects, enabling shareholders to participate in the decentralized finance and blockchain infrastructure landscape. For more information, visit www.solstrategies.io. A copy of this news release and all related material documents regarding the Company may be obtained under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. About Orangefin Ventures Orangefin Ventures is a blockchain infrastructure leader specializing in validator operations and decentralized network solutions. The company's cutting-edge technology, ISO 27001 certification, and reliable performance have made it a trusted name in the Solana ecosystem. For more information, visit www.orangefin.ventures Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information: Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements and information. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements and information relating to (i) the Company's or the Company's management team's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, (ii) expectations regarding the characteristics, value drivers, and anticipated benefits of the Acquisition and the appointment of a new Head of Staking, (iii) expectations regarding the Company's future development opportunities in connection with the Acquisition, and (iv) the Company's business plans and operations related thereto. Forward-looking information can also be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or indicates that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be" taken, "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding completion of the Acquisition and its intended impact on the Company, the Company's future investing plans and staking plans. There is no assurance that the Company's plans or objectives will be implemented as set out herein, or at all. Forward-looking information is based on certain factors and assumptions the Company believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The purpose of forward-looking information is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations, and such forward-looking information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates, and opinions on the date that statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates, and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by law. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Disclaimer: Sol Strategies is an independent organization in the Solana ecosystem. Sol Strategies is not affiliated with, owned by, or under common control with Solana Foundation (the "Foundation"), and the Foundation has not entered into any association, partnership, joint venture, employee, or agency relationship with Sol Strategies. None of the Foundation or its council members, officers, agents or make any representations or warranties, recommendations, endorsements or promises with respect to the accuracy of any statements made, information provided, or action taken by Sol Strategies and expressly disclaim any and all liability arising from or related to any such statements, information or action. SOURCE: Sol Strategies Inc. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235645 SOURCE: Sol Strategies Inc. Veloce Capital celebrates a landmark year, cementing its position as a leader in equity and debt fund investments supported by multifamily and mixed-use assets in secondary and tertiary markets. Veloce Capital celebrates a landmark year, cementing its position as a leader in equity and debt fund investments supported by multifamily and mixed-use assets in secondary and tertiary markets. By prioritizing exceptional returns, fostering community growth, and addressing national housing challenges, Veloce Capital reached significant milestones in 2024. Unprecedented Growth and Performance (2024) $250M+ Assets Under Management (AUM): Achieved a new milestone, underscoring scalability and market leadership. 350+ Active Assets: Backed by a robust network of 400+ active investors, reflecting trust and sustained engagement. 9%+ Annual Expected Returns: A testament to offering consistent high-yielding investment strategies and rigorous asset management. $50-$60M in Profitable Exits: Reinforcing a strong track record of high returns and expert management. Innovative Investment Strategies and Offerings 2024 marked the launch of several new investment options tailored to deliver strong ROI and align with market demands: Ground-Up Developments: Equity financing supported land acquisition, soft costs, and construction, generating returns of 20%-40%. In 2024, key projects targeted secondary markets across Northern New Jersey, addressing housing shortages and delivering developments that enhance communities. Income Generating Stabilized Properties: Offering rental income with significant upside through value-added opportunities. For example, in 2024, Veloce Capital successfully repositioned multiple- and single-assets that range in Net Operating Income increases of 3%+ to 24%+ within the first 12 months as rental revenue and asset value grow. Tax-Advantaged Investments: Leveraging cost segregation and accelerated depreciation for high-net-worth investors. Investors can significantly reduce taxable income by accelerating depreciation through bonus depreciation and component analysis. 1-4 Family Buy-To-Sell Deals: To meet the growing demand for affordable housing and owner-occupied landlord opportunities, Veloce Capital invested in and successfully sold seven two-family townhomes to homeowners. This initiative showcased the strong market need for such developments, while promoting community revitalization and stimulating economic growth. Building on this success, Veloce Capital has identified dozens of similar opportunities available in 2025, further advancing its mission to address housing needs and deliver value to investors. A Mission Rooted in Community Impact Veloce Capital remains steadfast in its mission to address housing shortages and enhance underserved markets. With 3.7 million housing units needed nationally and NYC alone requiring 560,000 units by 2030, Veloce Capital provides quality housing at scale, prioritizing affordability and community revitalization. "Our goal has always been to deliver good housing in underserved markets while making a meaningful impact on communities. In 2024, we continued to achieve this by identifying areas with untapped potential and developing projects that benefit both residents and investors," said Surf Dinani, CEO of Veloce Capital. Building Operations and Strategic Partnerships In 2024, Veloce Capital enhanced its operations and strategic partnerships to navigate a complex market and maximize investor value. The firm expanded its compliance and operational teams, adding expertise to strengthen decision-making, transparency, and portfolio management across its real estate and investment assets. Additionally, Veloce Capital deepened relationships with institutional investors and family offices, improving access to capital and large-scale investment opportunities. These strategic initiatives bolster logistics, investor relations, and operational efficiency, positioning the firm for sustained growth and the ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities. 2025 Outlook, Veloce Capital is poised for further growth and innovation: Inventory Optimization: Prioritize up-zoning, repurposing assets, and creating additional value for growth. Veloce Capital aims to expand its market presence while enhancing property value by leveraging zoning opportunities and repurposing underutilized assets. Bolstering the Revitalization Mission: Develop community-enhancing housing options with a focus on affordability and ownership. These initiatives will continue addressing the national housing shortage while fostering long-term community growth. Q1 Launch of 'Forte Investment Fund': This fractional ownership investment platform will democratize real estate investments, allowing more investors to participate in high-yield opportunities. Expanding and Continuing Growth: Offer a broader range of investment options, including: Single/Multi-Asset Income Equity Opportunities Studio-Asset Class Syndications 1-4 Family Buy-Sell Equity Deals Debt and Equity Evergreen Funds Large-Asset Class Syndications Find and Fund Fast-Converting Deals: Enhance the deal pipeline to rapidly identify and capitalize on high-value opportunities, ensuring consistent growth and returns. Thank You to Our Investors "Our success is made possible by our investors. We deeply value the trust and partnership of our investor community and look forward to reaching even greater milestones together in 2025 and beyond," said Surf Dinani. About Veloce Capital, LLC Veloce Capital, LLC is a premier real estate private equity (REPE) firm with a strong track record of success. Since its founding, the company has completed over $1.2 billion in transactions, financing the development of more than 3,000 new ground-up units and establishing a diverse real estate portfolio exceeding 5,000 units along the East Coast. Offering four distinct investment opportunities, Veloce Capital enables both accredited and non-accredited investors to passively participate in multifamily properties in high-growth, developer-friendly cities. The firm's approach focuses on scalable growth and delivering strong, consistent returns. Headquartered in Hackensack, New Jersey, Veloce Capital is powered by a dedicated team of experts in investor relations, administration, and operations. The company is committed to providing innovative, transparent, and impactful real estate investment solutions. About Surf Dinani Surf Dinani is a seasoned real estate investment and financing expert, leading Veloce Capital's overall vision and strategic direction. With a deep proficiency in deal-making, structuring complex transactions, and fostering strong client relationships, Surf has established himself as a pivotal force in the industry. His innovative approach to developing solutions drives Veloce Capital's success in a highly competitive market, positioning the firm as a leader in multifamily and mixed-use real estate investments. Through his leadership, Veloce Capital continues to deliver exceptional value and opportunities to its investors and partners. For more information, contact Veloce Capital at info@velocecapital.com. SOURCE: Veloce Capital View the original press release on accesswire.com LEUVEN, BELGIUM -31 December 2024 - 6:00PM, Oxurion NV (Euronext Brussels: OXUR), a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Leuven, announces a short postponement of approximately four weeks for the signing of its contemplated strategic transaction. The delay is due to ongoing discussions between the parties, prompted by the better than expected financial results of the target. The contemplated transaction, which represents a significant step in Oxurion's strategic realignment, remains a key priority for all parties involved. The Company confirms the shared willingness and commitment of all stakeholders to successfully finalize the agreement and to ensure the transaction's alignment with the updated financial context. With this adjustment to the timeline, Oxurion reiterates its dedication to completing the transaction and achieving its strategic objectives. Further updates will be provided as key milestones are reached. About Oxurion Oxurion (Euronext Brussels: OXUR) is engaged in the development of next-generation standard ophthalmic therapies for the treatment of retinal diseases. Oxurion is headquartered in Leuven. Further information is available at www.oxurion.com Important information about forward-looking statements Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking". Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and, accordingly, entail and are influenced by various risks and uncertainties. The Company therefore cannot provide any assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize and does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or any other reason. Additional information concerning risks and uncertainties affecting the business and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement is contained in the Company's Annual Report. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of Oxurion in any jurisdiction. No securities of Oxurion may be offered or sold within the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or in compliance with an exemption therefrom, and in accordance with any applicable U.S. state securities laws. For further information please contact: Oxurion NV Pascal Ghoson Chief Executive Officer Pascal.ghoson@oxurion.com ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: mpiblsaal22WyXJsZJtummhmaGqXk2Sba2GamZKdY8eXb2lpxZxhasibZnFqmGdu - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-89328-oxur_postponement-contemplated-acquisition_en_20241231.pdf ST. JOHN'S, NL / ACCESSWIRE / December 31, 2024 / Sokoman Minerals Corp. (TSXV:SIC)(OTCQB:SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its December 4, 2024 and December 17, 2024 news releases the Company has closed the flow-through portion of its non-brokered flow-through financing (the "FT Financing") for aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$1,456,500. The Company has issued 36,412,500 CAD$0.04 flow-through shares (the "FT Shares"), with each flow-through common share of the Company entitling the holder to receive the tax benefits applicable to flow-through shares in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada). The Company is also closing the second tranche of its non-flow-through financing (the "NFT Financing") and has issued an additional 700,000 non-flow-through common shares for an aggregate total of 850,000 non-flow-through common shares or CAD$29,750. The FT Financing has been effected with one (1) insider subscribing for CAD$10,000 or 250,000 FT Shares, that portion of the FT Financing a "related-party transaction" as such term is defined under MI 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions. The Company is relying on exemptions from the formal valuation requirement of MI-61-101 under sections 5.5(a) and (b) of MI 61-101 in respect of the transaction as the fair market value of the transaction, insofar as it involves the interested party, is not more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization. In connection with the FT Financing, the Company has paid cash finders' fees totalling CAD$44,400, issued 1,110,000 non-transferable broker warrants, exercisable at CAD$0.06 for one year, and issued 1,200,000 common shares to three finders, as permitted by the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). All securities issued pursuant to the FT Financing and the NFT Financing (together the "Financings") are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period. Final approval of the Financings is subject to Exchange approval. The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Shares, pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada), to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" as both terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") on or before December 31, 2025, and to renounce all of the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares effective December 31, 2024. The Company intends to spend CAD$1,000,000 of the flow-through proceeds on the Moosehead gold property, the balance on the Fleur de Lys and Crippleback projects, and hard-dollar proceeds for working capital. About Sokoman Minerals Corp. Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company and one of the largest landholders in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's emerging gold district. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects: the 100%-owned flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, Crippleback Lake, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in northwestern Newfoundland, targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company entered a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three large-scale, joint-venture properties, including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland. In October 2023, Sokoman and Benton completed an agreement with Piedmont Lithium Inc., a major developer of lithium projects and processing plants in the USA, and exactly the right partner to have to advance the lithium project. For full details of the agreement, please refer to the Company's press release dated October 11, 2023. Projects optioned with optionee fully vested are: East Alder Project optioned to Canterra Minerals Inc. (SIC retains shares of CTM plus 1% NSR) Startrek Project optioned to Thunder Gold (SIC retains shares of TGOL plus 1% NSR) The Company would like to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for the financial support of the Moosehead and Fleur de Lys Projects through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program during the past few years. For more information, please contact: Timothy Froude, P.Geo., President & CEO? T: 709-765-1726? E: tim@sokomanmineralscorp.com Cathy Hume, VP Corporate Development, Director? T: 416-868-1079 x 251 E: cathy@chfir.com Website: www.sokomanmineralscorp.com Twitter: @SokomanMinerals Facebook: @SokomanMinerals LinkedIn: @SokomanMineralsCorp Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of the Corporation should be considered highly speculative. Except for historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. Sokoman Minerals Corp. will not update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Sokoman Minerals Corp. SOURCE: Sokoman Minerals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - A study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, identified differences in brain structure in about 1,000 adolescents who used substances before age 15 compared to those who did not.Notably, many of these differences were present during their childhood, even before any substance use, putting them at the risk of substance use initiation later in life, along with influence of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.'This adds to some emerging evidence that an individual's brain structure, alongside their unique genetics, environmental exposures, and interactions among these factors, may impact their level of risk and resilience for substance use and addiction,' said Nora Volkow M.D., director of NIDA.'Understanding the complex interplay between the factors that contribute and that protect against drug use is crucial for informing effective prevention interventions and providing support for those who may be most vulnerable.'Of the 3,460 adolescents who initiated substance use before age 15, around 90 percent reported trying alcohol, often with nicotine and/or cannabis, whereas 61.5 percent and 52.4 percent of adolescents initiating nicotine and cannabis, respectively, also reported use of alcohol.The researchers from Washington University assessed MRI scans of the participants, when they were aged 9 to 11, followed by a three-year evaluation. They looked into global and regional differences in brain structure, analyzing measures like volume, thickness, depth of brain folds, and surface area, particularly in the brain cortex.Published in JAMA Network Open, the study identified five brain structural differences at the global level and 39 brain structure differences at the regional level in those who reported substance initiation before the age of 15 compared to those who did not.This study highlights how certain brain characteristics influence behavior before any substance exposure occurs. The researchers hinted that future studies will focus on exploring further about the intricate relationship between brain structure, development, and substance use.Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Andean Precious Metals Corp. (TSXV: APM) (OTCQX: ANPMF) ("Andean", or the "Company") provides an update regarding the Master Services Agreement ("MSA") with Silver Elephant Mining Corp. ("Silver Elephant"), dated September 11, 2023. Andean denies allegations of any default by Andean under the MSA, including the payment obligation of US$1 million, and considers Silver Elephant's termination of the MSA to be wrongful and without merit. Prior to the bad faith and wrongful termination, Silver Elephant had failed to fulfill several material obligations under the MSA. These include maintaining its Mining Production Contract with COMIBOL, permitting the mining of oxide minerals across all its mining areas, and providing the necessary access for Andean to acquire oxide minerals in line with the agreed mining plan. The Company is actively working with outside legal counsel to address this matter and intends to dispute the wrongful termination of the MSA. In the meantime, Andean has been diligently sourcing replacement tonnage from other suppliers to mitigate the impact of Silver Elephant's actions and ensure the continuity of its operations. About Andean Precious Metals Andean is a growing precious metals producer focused on expanding into top-tier jurisdictions in the Americas. The Company owns and operates the San Bartolome processing facility in Potosi, Bolivia and the Soledad Mountain mine in Kern County, California, and is well-funded to act on future growth opportunities. Andean's leadership team is committed to creating value; fostering safe, sustainable and responsible operations; and achieving our ambition to be a multi-asset, mid-tier precious metals producer. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements and information in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which we refer to collectively as "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements and information regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that are based upon assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action. All statements and information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "seek", "expect", "anticipate", "budget", "plan", "estimate", "continue", "forecast", "intend", "believe", "predict", "potential", "target", "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements and information regarding the dispute with Silver Elephant regarding the MSA and the sourcing of replacement tonnage from other suppliers. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including, but not limited to: the Company's ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the Company's ability to secure and to meet obligations under property and option agreements and other material agreements; the timely receipt of required approvals and permits; that there is no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; that contracted parties provide goods or services in a timely manner; that no unusual geological or technical problems occur; that plant and equipment function as anticipated and that there is no material adverse change in the price of silver, costs associated with production or recovery. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained herein. Some of the risks and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this release include, but are not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits and conclusions of economic evaluations; results of initial feasibility, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks relating to possible variations in reserves, resources, grade, planned mining dilution and ore loss, or recovery rates and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; mining and development risks, including risks related to accidents, equipment breakdowns, labour disputes (including work stoppages and strikes) or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in exploration and development; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; risks related to commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; the uncertainty of profitability based upon the cyclical nature of the industry in which the Company operates; risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms or delays in obtaining governmental or local community approvals or in the completion of development or construction activities; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the uncertain global economic environment; and other factors contained in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's MD&A for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, you are cautioned that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other factors that the Company has not identified. Furthermore, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235687 SOURCE: Andean Precious Metals Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Caprock Mining Corp. (CSE: CAPR) ("Caprock" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the financing of hard dollar units (the "HD Units") to raise aggregate gross proceeds of $292,125 and flow through units ("FT Units") to raise aggregate gross proceeds of $115,000, as previously announced in the Company's press release dated December 20, 2024. Concurrently with the completion of the financing the Company has also issued the first tranche of common shares owing to Big Ridge Gold Corp. (the "Optionor") under an option agreement (the "Option Agreement") that the Company entered into with respect to the Destiny gold property (the "Destiny Project") located near Val D'Or, Quebec (see press release dated December 4, 2024). The issuance is comprised of 8,000,000 common shares issued at a deemed issue price of $0.05 per share. Caprock's President & CEO Mr. Vishal Gupta stated, "We are excited to finally close on what we believe to be a transformative transaction for Caprock. Situated in a world-class gold district, the Destiny gold project is due for an updated NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate that incorporates current economics and the results of a sizeable drill program completed in 2020. We look forward to announcing the details of our multi-phased strategic plan for Destiny in the coming weeks, which will commence with an updated mineral resource estimate in Q1 2025. We will also outline our plans for the potential expansion of the updated mineral resource estimate through systematic drilling in several prospective zones identified by dozens of historical drill holes covering a considerable mineralized strike length beyond the resource zone." Details of the Financing Each HD Unit was issued at a price at $0.025 and is comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at any time on or before December 31, 2026 at a price of $0.06. Each FT Unit will qualify as a "flow-through share" (within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada). Each FT Unit was issued at a price at $0.04 and is comprised of one flow-through common share and one Warrant. The securities issued in connection with the financing are subject to a four-month hold period expiring on the date that is four months and one day following the issuance of the HD Units and FT Units. An aggregate of $29,210 was paid to certain finders and an aggregate of 230,000 finder warrants were issued to certain finders in connection with the financing. Each finder warrant entitles the finder to acquire one HD Unit at a price of $0.025 at any time on or before December 31, 2026. Use of Proceeds The gross proceeds from the sale of FT Units will be used by the Company to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" (as both terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada)) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Destiny Project. The Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers with an effective date of December 31, 2024. In addition, with respect to subscribers who are eligible individuals under the Taxation Act (Quebec), the Qualifying Expenditures will also qualify for inclusion in the "exploration base relating to certain Quebec exploration expenses" within the meaning of section 726.4.10 of the Taxation Act (Quebec) and for inclusion in the "exploration base relating to certain Quebec surface mining exploration expenses" within the meaning of section 726.4.17.2 of the Taxation Act (Quebec). The net proceeds from the sale of the HD Units are expected to be used for expenditures on the Destiny Project as well as general working capital. The securities issued under the financing have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. Forward Looking Statements All statements in this press release about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements with respect to: the Company's plans and expectations for the Destiny Project. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Although Caprock believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since Caprock can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in Caprock's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Caprock's expectations include risks associated with the business of Caprock; risks related to reliance on technical information provided by Caprock; risks related to exploration and potential development of the Company's mineral properties; business and economic conditions in the mining industry generally; fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies and First Nation groups in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time and additional risks identified in Caprock's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Caprock does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235672 SOURCE: Caprock Mining Corp. Tsodilo Resources Limited ("Tsodilo" or the "Company")(TSXV:TSD)(OTCQB:TSDRF)(FSE:TZO) reports that in terms of the Stock Option Plan of the Company and a policy adopted by the board of directors in September 2002, 400,000 stock options were granted to officers, senior employees, and advisors to be effective on January 1, 2025, at CDN $0.16 per common share. These options are valid for five years and vest in four equal installments on January 1, 2025, July 1, 2025, January 1, 2026, and July 1, 2026. About Tsodilo Resources Limited Tsodilo Resources Limited is an international diamond and metals exploration company engaged in the search for economic diamond and metal deposits at its Bosoto (Pty) Limited ("Bosoto") and Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Limited ("Gcwihaba") projects in Botswana. The Company has a 100% stake in Bosoto which holds the BK16 kimberlite project in the Orapa Kimberlite Field (OKF) in Botswana and a 100% stake in its Gcwihaba project area consisting of five metal (base, precious, platinum group, and rare earth) prospecting licenses all located in the North-West district of Botswana. Tsodilo manages the exploration of the Gcwihaba and Bosoto projects. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: James M. Bruchs Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jbruchs@TsodiloResources.com Head Office Telephone +1 416 800-4214 Facsimile +1 416 987-4369 Website www.TsodiloResources.com This press release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, which address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements pertaining to the use of proceeds, the impact of strategic partnerships and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals) are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward- looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, changes in equity markets, changes in general economic conditions, market volatility, political developments in Botswana and surrounding countries, changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, exploration and development risks, the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration results and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration business. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, uncertainties relating to availability and cost of funds, timing and content of work programs, results of exploration activities, interpretation of drilling results and other geological data, risks relating to variations in the diamond grade and kimberlite lithologies; variations in rates of recovery and breakage; estimates of grade and quality of diamonds, variations in diamond valuations and future diamond prices; the state of world diamond markets, reliability of mineral property titles, changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required project approvals, operational and infrastructure risk and other risks involved in the diamond exploration and development business. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release may contain assumptions, estimates, and other forward-looking statements regarding future events. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and are subject to factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which may cause actual results or performance to differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. SOURCE: Tsodilo Resources Ltd. View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Defence Therapeutics Inc. (CSE: DTC) (OTCQB: DTCFF) (FSE: DTC) ("Defence" or the "Company"), a Canadian biopharmaceutical company developing radiopharmaceuticals and ADC products using its proprietary platform and drug delivery technologies in addition to novel immune-oncology vaccines, is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to $4.2 million at $0.60 per unit comprising of up to seven million units (each, a "Unit") of the Company. Each Unit is comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional common share at a price of $0.75 per common share for a period of 24 months of the closing date (the "Offering"). The Company intends to use the net proceeds to advance its preclinical and clinical programs, and for general working capital. The Company may pay a finder's fee in connection with the Offering in accordance with the policies of the CSE. The securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day following the closing date in accordance with the CSE. About Defence: Defence Therapeutics is a publicly-traded clinical-stage biotechnology company developing and engineering the next generation of radio-immuno-conjugate and ADC products using its proprietary platform in addition to novel immune-oncology vaccines. The core of Defence Therapeutics platform is the ACCUM technology, which enables precision delivery of radio-immuno-conjugates or ADCs in their intact form to target cells, and vaccine antigens. As a result, increased efficacy and potency can be reached against catastrophic illness such as cancer and infectious diseases. Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information Neither the CSE nor its market regulator, as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE, accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235671 SOURCE: Defence Therapeutics Inc. Whitby, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Environmental Waste International Inc. (TSXV: EWS) (the "Company" or "EWS"), is pleased to announce that it has completed the previously announced plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") of Company pursuant to which Hydrotrux Group Ltd. ("Hydrotrux") through its wholly-owned subsidiary has acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company. The Arrangement was approved on November 20, 2024 at an annual and special meeting by approximately 98.5% of the votes cast by the Company's securityholders. Final approval for the Arrangement was obtained from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) on November 26, 2024. Under the Arrangement, each EWS common share was paid $0.0035 in cash. As a result, EWS's common shares will be delisted from the TSX Venture Exchange and Hydrotrux will apply to the relevant securities commissions for EWS to cease to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws. Full details of the Arrangement and certain other matters are set out in the management information circular of EWS dated October 18, 2024 (the "Information Circular"). A copy of the Information Circular and other meeting materials can be found on Company's website at www.ewi.ca or under Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus. ca . EWS shareholders who have questions or who may need assistance with the completion of letters of transmittal and in collecting the Arrangement consideration to which they are entitled are advised to contact TSX Trust Company, the depository for the Arrangement, at: North American Toll Free: 1-866-600-5869 Telephone: 416-342-1091 (Outside North America) Email: TSXTIS@TMX.COM About Environmental Waste International Inc. Environmental Waste International Inc. specializes in eco-friendly systems for the breakdown of organic materials, including tires. The Company has spent over 15 years engineering systems that integrate the EWS patented Reverse Polymerization process and proprietary microwave delivery system. EWS's unique microwave technology safely processes and recycles waste tires, while recovering highly valuable commodities, including carbon black, oil and steel. Each unit is designed to be environmentally safe, energy efficient, and economically profitable for the operator. For more information please visit, www.ewi.ca . Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of such statements under applicable securities law. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking statements throughout this news release. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. A more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company appears in the Company's continuous disclosure filings, which are available at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235703 SOURCE: Environmental Waste International Inc. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - SOL Global Investments Corp. (CSE: SOL) (OTC Pink: SOLCF) (FSE: 9SB) ("SOL Global" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, as of today's date, it has reached an agreement with a number of creditors (the "Creditors") of the Company to settle outstanding indebtedness totaling $9,598,162 through the issuance of 23,995,405 Common Shares of the Company (each, a "Settlement Share" and collectively, the "Settlement Shares") at a deemed price of $0.40 per Settlement Share, a premium to the market price (the "Settlement"). "This final debt settlement will enable SOL Global to raise capital much easier and attract institutional participation in future equity financings, as a result of a liability free balance sheet," stated SOL's Interim CEO, CFO Paul Kania. The Settlement Shares issued in connection with the Settlement will be subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day after the date of issuance pursuant to National Instrument 45-102 - Resale of Securities, other than the Settlement Shares issued to Creditors outside of Canada which will be freely tradable pursuant to available exemptions. The proposed issuances of Settlement Shares to PLK Accounting & Finance Inc. ("PLK") and Pad Gopal pursuant to the Settlement will each be a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), as Paul Kania, SOL's Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is the principal shareholder of PLK and Pad Gopal is a Vice President of the Company. PLK is a Creditor entitled to receive an aggregate of 3,000,000 Settlement Shares in settlement of indebtedness of approximately $1,200,000, and Pad Gopal is a Creditor entitled to receive an aggregate of 500,000 Settlement Shares in settlement of indebtedness of approximately $200,000. However, the issuances of such Settlement Shares is exempt from (i) the valuation requirement of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in Section 5.5(b), as the Settlement Shares are not listed on a market specified in MI 61-101, and (ii) the minority shareholder approval requirement of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in Section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of such Settlement Shares does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The proposed issuance of Settlement Shares to PLK and Pad Gopal pursuant to the Settlement has been approved by the directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such issuances. No special committee was established in connection with the Settlement, and no materially contrary view or abstention was expressed or made by any director of the Company in relation thereto. Further details will be included in a material change report that will be filed by the Company in connection with the completion of the Settlement. The Company anticipates that the material change report will be filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the Settlement but believes that this shorter period is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances as the Company wishes to improve its financial position by reducing its accrued liabilities as soon as possible. About SOL Global Investments Corp. SOL Global is a diversified international investment and private equity holding company. The Company is in the process of divesting its current investment partnerships and minority holdings. SOL Global recently announced the transition of investments to focus exclusively on digital asset technology, primarily on Solana and Solana based technologies. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the anticipated completion of the Settlement; the Company's intention to focus exclusively on digital asset technology and increase its investments in Solana and Solana based technologies; the Company's expectations related to divestitures of its current investment partnerships and minority holdings and the completion and expected benefits thereof; and the Company's business and investment strategies. Forward-looking information reflects the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, technical, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, including the speculative nature of cryptocurrencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, without limitation, the Company's ability to complete the Settlement, on the proposed terms and the proposed timeline, or at all; the Company's ability execute on its business and investment plans, including the Company's ability to raise debt or equity through future financing activities and divest its current investment partnerships and minority holdings; the growth of the Solana ecosystem; growth and development of decentralized finance and digital asset sector; rules and regulations with respect to decentralized finance and digital assets; and general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235691 SOURCE: SOL Global Investments Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Radio Fuels Energy Corp. (CSE: CAKE) (OTCQB: CKEFF) (the "Company" or "Radio Fuels") is pleased to announce that it has filed and commenced delivery of the notice of meeting and management information circular of the Company (the "Circular") and related materials for the annual and special meeting of shareholders of the Company (the "Meeting") to be held on January 30, 2025. At the Meeting, shareholders will be asked to approve, among other things, the proposed business combination between Radio Fuels and Palisades Goldcorp Ltd. ("Palisades") pursuant to the arrangement agreement entered into between the parties on December 9, 2024 (the "Arrangement Agreement") whereby Palisades will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Radio Fuels (the "Radio Fuels Shares") by way of a plan of arrangement under the Canada Business Corporations Act (the "Transaction"). Under the terms of the Arrangement Agreement, each Radio Fuels Share will be exchanged for 0.060538 of a Palisades common share (each a "Palisades Share"). Upon completion of the Transaction, existing Palisades shareholders and former Radio Fuels shareholders will own approximately 76% and 24%, respectively, of the issued and outstanding Palisades Shares. Highlights: The combined entity will create a resource focused investment company with a strong balance sheet of $120-million in cash and marketable securities, providing retail and institutional investors with highly levered exposure to junior resource equities; Palisades will become the largest junior land holder in Nevada when measured by mineral tenure. The Radio Fuels (NV King Goldlands) property portfolio currently ranks as the third largest in Nevada behind Nevada Gold Mines (Barrick/Newmont JV) and Kinross Gold Corp.; The combined entity will retain exposure to the Atlanta Gold Mine Project, currently being advanced by Nevada King Gold Corp. (TSXV: NKG), through the 3% net smelter royalty held by Radio Fuels; and Radio Fuels shareholders will benefit from exposure to Palisades' significant investment portfolio while continuing to also benefit from Radio Fuels' unparalleled leverage to uranium and rare earth elements through its 100% ownership of the Eco Ridge Project, which has an NI 43-101 resource of 39.9Mlbs of U308 Eq Indicated and 67.2 Mlbs of U308 Eq Inferred. The respective boards of directors of Palisades and Radio Fuels have unanimously (excluding directors that abstained from voting) approved the Arrangement Agreement and the terms of the Transaction, following the unanimous recommendation of the respective special committees of Palisades and Radio Fuels. The Radio Fuels board of directors unanimously recommends that Radio Fuels shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction at Radio Fuels' upcoming Meeting scheduled to be held on January 30, 2025. Fort Capital Partners has provided an opinion to the board of directors and special committee of Radio Fuels that the consideration to be paid under the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to Radio Fuels shareholders. Canada Post Strike Radio Fuels is aware that, as a result of the national strike commenced by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers on November 15, 2024 and ended on December 19, 2024 (the "Postal Strike"), Canada Post's operations were shut down for an extended period of time. Radio Fuels is working closely with its service providers in connection with the Meeting to closely monitor whether the Postal Strike will have any impact on the delivery of the Circular and related materials to its shareholders in connection with the Meeting. If you are a shareholder of Radio Fuels as of December 17, 2024 (the record date for the Meeting) and you do not receive meeting materials in connection with the Meeting, please feel free to contact the Company by email at phil@radiofuels.ca and the Company will arrange to deliver the materials to you directly by email or courier. The Circular, form of letter of transmittal and other documentation related to the Meeting are also available electronically on the Company's website at www.radiofuels.ca or the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Meeting Details The Meeting will be held at the offices of Stikeman Elliott LLP, at 666 Burrard Street Suite 1700, Vancouver, BC V6C 2X8, on January 30, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Vancouver time). Shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 17, 2024 are entitled to receive notice of and vote at the Meeting. The Circular contains detailed instructions for how shareholders may exercise their right to vote at the Meeting. Shareholders are encouraged to vote well in advance of the Meeting. The deadline for registered shareholders to vote is by 10:00 a.m. (Vancouver time), on January 28, 2025. Non-registered shareholders who typically receive materials through their broker or other intermediary are requested to follow the instructions for voting provided by their broker or intermediary, which may include the completion and delivery of a voting instruction form. Further Transaction Details: For further information regarding the Transaction, please see the joint news release filed by Radio Fuels and Palisades on December 9, 2024 and the Circular, which contains detailed information regarding the Transaction. In addition to the approval of the Radio Fuels shareholders, completion of the Transaction is subject to receipt of TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") approval, court approvals and other customary closing conditions. The Radio Fuels board of directors unanimously recommends that Radio Fuels shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction. About Palisades Goldcorp Ltd. Palisades Goldcorp Ltd. is a resource investment company focused on junior companies in the resource and mining sector. Palisades seeks to acquire equity participation in pre-initial public offering and early-stage public resource companies with undeveloped or undervalued high quality projects. Palisades focuses on companies that are in need of financial resources to realize their full potential, are undervalued in capital markets, and/or operate in jurisdictions with low to moderate local political risk. Palisades expects to continue to make investments, pursuant to its dual investment strategy, to achieve broad sector exposure with upside in the event of appreciation in mineral commodities prices, while also providing the potential to realize appreciation in net asset values as a result of discoveries by issuers in which Palisades holds larger positions. Palisades is listed on the TSX-V under the stock symbol "PALI". Palisades holds a diverse portfolio of securities and derivatives, among which it holds a 21.82% interest in New Found Gold Corp. (TSXV: NFG). For further information regarding Palisades, please contact: Collin Kettell, Chief Executive Officer and Director Phone: +1 (845) 535-1486 Email: collin@palisades.ca About Radio Fuels Energy Corp. Radio Fuels is a junior natural resource company focused on providing exposure to uranium and other commodities through the investment, acquisition, exploration, and development of projects and companies. NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate - Eco Ridge Project Classification Tonnes (000 t) U3O8 (%) U3O8 (000 lbs) Total REO (ppm) Total REO (000 lbs) U3O8 Equivalent (%) U3O8 Equivalent (000 lbs) Indicated 22,306 0.045 22,290 1,613 79,314 0.081 39,920 Inferred 36,955 0.046 37,728 1,560 127,101 0.082 67,208 107,128 Table 1, Mineral Resource estimate from the technical report entitled "Technical Report on the Eco Ridge Project, Elliot Lake Area, Ontario, Canada - Report for NI 43-101" dated September 14, 2021. The qualified person responsible for preparation of the technical report was Tudorel Ciuculescu, M.Sc., P.Geo., who was independent of Radio Fuels at such time. Notes: (1) Mineral Resources were estimated within the Main Conglomerate Bed at a cut-off value of C$72/t. Values calculated in the technical report are based on prices and recoveries of uranium and rare earths, net of off-site rare earth separation costs. (2) Mineral Resources were estimated using an average long-term uranium price of US$55/lb U3O8, a rare earth "basket price" of US$35/kg (net of separation charges), and a C$:US$ exchange rate of 1.25:1.00. (3) U3O8 Equivalents were calculated by converting rare earths values (net of prices, recoveries, and separation charges) to uranium values: (Ce*0.000001615) + (La*0.000001512) + (Nd*0.000083203) + (Pr*0.000086281) + (Sm*0.000001445) + (Eu*0.000026748) + (Gd*0.000034083) + (Sc*0.000873045) + (Y*0.00000438) + (Yb*0.000015265) + (Dy*0.000307606) + (Er*0.000025566) + (Ho*0) + (Lu*0) + (Tb*0.0009556) + (Tm*0) [units of ppm * Canadian dollar]. (4) A minimum mining thickness of 1.8 m was used. (5) TREO include light oxides La2O3, CeO2, Pr6O11, and Nd2O3, and heavy oxides Sm2O3, Eu2O3, Gd2O3, Tb4O7, Dy2O3, Ho2O3, Er2O3, Tm2O3, Yb2O3, Y2O3, and Lu2O3. Sc2O3 is also included, as it occurs in low concentrations and carries high unit values like a HREO. Since the previous NI 43-101 resource estimate, no additional drilling has been conducted at Eco Ridge and there have been no material changes to geological information which could influence the resource estimate. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulatory Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) nor the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or" should" occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the proposed terms and timing of the Transaction, the proposed benefits of the Transaction, the holding of a meeting of Radio Fuels shareholders, the satisfaction of conditions precedent of the Transaction, the timing, receipt and anticipated effects of court and regulatory approvals for the Transaction, Palisades' future outlook and the completion of the Transaction. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Palisades and Radio Fuels, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the Palisades or Radio Fuels' failure to complete the Transaction, the failure of Radio Fuels shareholders to approve the Transaction, and the failure of the TSXV to approve the Transaction. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Palisades and Radio Fuels do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235407 SOURCE: Radio Fuels Energy Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Newpath Resources Inc. (CSE: PATH) (FSE: 0MZ) (OTC PINK: RDYFF) ("Newpath" or the "Company") announces that the Company completed a non-brokered flow-through private placement (the "Offering"). The Company issued 1,538,461 flow-through shares (each a "FT Share" and collectively, the "FT Shares") at a price of $0.0325 per FT Share for total gross proceeds of $50,000. All FT Shares issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a four-month hold expiring May 1, 2025, under applicable securities laws in Canada. The proceeds raised from the Offering are expected to be used for exploration activities on the Company's projects. The Company's CEO and director, Alexander McAulay, subscribed for a total of 307,692 FT Shares under the Offering. Mr. McAulay's participation in the Offering is a "related-party transaction", as defined in Multi-Lateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation requirements contained in section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 and the minority shareholder approval requirements contained in section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the Company is not listed on specified markets and the fair market value of Mr. McAulay's participation in the Offering does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the Offering as the closing date of the Offering was not immediately known and the Company wished to close on an expedited basis. About Newpath Resources Inc. Newpath is a Canadian exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol PATH. As of December 2024, Newpath's early-stage Orefield critical metal exploration project is composed of two claim groups (Alpha/Bravo and Delta), totals approximately 469 square kilometres west and southwest of Lake Nipigon in Northern Ontario, approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay. The Company also owns the Northshore gold project located in the Schreiber-Hemlo greenstone belt. On Behalf of the Company, NEWPATH RESOURCES INC. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release may contain certain "forward-looking information". Forward-looking information may include financial and other projections, as well as statements regarding future plans, objectives, or economic performance, or the assumption underlying any of the foregoing. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as "aim", "aims to", "may", "would", "could", "will", "will be" "likely", "expected", "anticipated", "proposed", "believe", "intend", "intent", "looking", "plan", "forecast", "project", "estimate", "outlook", "hope". Forward-looking information included in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the use of proceeds from the Offering. Forward-looking information is based upon the assumptions and estimates considered reasonable by management of the Company as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Risks that may cause the forward-looking information contained herein to be materially different from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein include, but are not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals if required, key personnel and qualified employees continuing their involvement with the Company, the competitive conditions of the industries in which the Company operates, the availability of material projects, capital expenditures and other costs, repayment of debt, financing and additional capital requirements. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Any statement containing forward-looking information speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235708 SOURCE: Newpath Resources Inc. Singapore, Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - This news release is issued by Robert M. Friedland to provide an update regarding his holdings of class A common shares ("common shares") in Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. ("Ivanhoe Mines") following transactions that were previously disclosed on August 18, 2023. In connection with personal financing transactions (collectively, the "Transactions") entered into by Mr. Friedland with a third-party U.S. commercial bank (the "Financial Institution") and previously disclosed, the Financial Institution has made funds available to Mr. Friedland. In support of the Transactions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mr. Friedland has pledged as security an aggregate of 62,700,000 common shares in favour of the Financial Institution which constitutes 4.64% of the currently outstanding Ivanhoe Mines' common shares. This increase constitutes less than a 2% increase in the number of pledged common shares since Mr. Friedland's last disclosure on August 18, 2023. The Transactions have been completed in multiple tranches. At maturity, Mr. Friedland may, but is not required to, deliver common shares to the Financial Institution to settle the Transactions. Mr. Friedland also has the right to elect to settle the transaction in cash, and expects and intends to do so in all circumstances. Except for these circumstances, the commercial bank has obtained no rights to dispose of, sell, transfer or vote, any of the pledged common shares or other shares of Ivanhoe Mines. Mr. Friedland or a wholly-owned subsidiary continues to retain all rights of ownership over the pledged common shares. Mr. Friedland may, at any time, increase or decrease the number of pledged common shares as part of the Transactions with the Financial Institution. As part of estate planning over the next five years, Mr. Friedland also intends to transfer common shares to one or more charitable trusts established or to be established. The common shares that may be subject to further pledging as a part of the Transaction and/or common shares that may be transferred as part of estate planning purposes shall not exceed 8.8% of the issuer's outstanding common shares at any time. Mr. Friedland will provide the additional disclosures required for these future transactions at the time required by applicable law. Wholly-owned subsidiaries of Mr. Friedland continue to be the registered owners of 163,046,893 common chares (which includes the Pledged Shares) and Mr. Friedland continues to directly own 182,724 common shares, which in aggregate total 163,229,617 common shares, representing in aggregate approximately 12.08% of the common shares issued and outstanding on December 30, 2024. Mr. Friedland also may be deemed to own 3,993,412 common shares issuable on exercise of previously granted options, 266,793 common shares issuable upon the vesting of restricted share units and 216,468 common shares issuable upon the vesting of performance share units, and as a result may be deemed to own, in aggregate, 167,706,290 common shares, representing approximately 12.37% of the common shares issued and outstanding on a partially-diluted basis. Mr. Friedland has a business address of 150 Beach Road, #25-03, The Gateway West, Singapore 189720. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235707 SOURCE: Robert M. Friedland As the year 2024 ends, here is a look at the performance of cryptocurrency, especially bitcoin, that turned fortune of the investors within days read more Representations of the Ripple, Bitcoin, Etherum and Litecoin virtual currencies are seen on a PC motherboard in this illustration picture. Source: REUTERS. Crypto was not much known to a common man or small scale investors till the digital currencies in the basket, including the oldest and most-traded - bitcoin, broke all records to touch a new life-time high especially after Donald Trumps win in the November 5, 2024 US Presidential election. But before understanding about a strong comeback, let us understand what cryptocurrency is. Cryptocurrency is a virtual or digital currency and is not in a physical coin or bill based. It can be used to buy goods and services and all the transactions take place online. Advertisement Cryptocurrency runs on the system of cryptography. However, before 2024, crypto was just a fringe sideshow for the investing public. Now, crypto assets like bitcoin can now be owned and traded by Americans like a stock. What gave more boost to cryptocurrency is the assurance of major legislative changes by the incoming administration in Washington to support the industry. Investors who were holding bitcoin are up 130 per cent since the beginning of the year as the price of the largest cryptocurrency broke all records and surged past $100,000 following Trumps triumph in November 2024 presidential elections. As per Coinmarketcap, the market value of all crypto rose by nearly $1.7 trillion. Another factor that helped crypto surge was the US SEC approving Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs earlier in the year. Following this financial giants including BlackRock and Fidelity significantly increased their crypto investments. It was because of this, bitcoin rallied earlier in the year too as it witnessed massive demand from newly launched spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Also, enhanced blockchain infrastructure, with improved scalability and security features, attracted a host of new users. Cryptos upward movement began around the US Presidential election, when Trump promised to establish a crypto presidential advisory committee to draft robust regulations, enable individuals to mine bitcoin, allow self-custody of digital assets, and reduce government oversight. Advertisement He also proposed the idea of a strategic bitcoin reserve to position the US as the dominant Bitcoin superpower. The US President also proposed leveraging bitcoin reserves to reduce the US national debt. Most of us associate with bitcoin when we hear about cryptocurrency, however, Pepe - a token inspired by the meme frog - emerged as the top performer with a market capatilisation surpassing $5 billion. Pepe soared by a staggering 1,570.7 per cent, reaching a market cap of $9 billion. Similarly, SUI, the native token for the Sui blockchain, posted a remarkable 509 per cent gain. According to Forbes report, Dogecoin, a favorite among meme coin enthusiasts and promoted by Elon Musk, surged 333.1 per cent. Advertisement Meme coins including Dogecoin and Shiba Inu were among the major contributors to the expansion of the crypto market in 2024. After a well performing 2024, market participants are positive about the cryptocurrency prospects for 2025 as the Trump-led administration returns to the White House. Most of the analysts and experts see bitcoin to reach $200,000 by the end of 2025. The actor, for both his portrayals, garnered positive reviews from the audience and critics alike and cemented his stance as one of the most sought-after performers read more Sunny Kaushal has taken the Bollywood scene by storm with his impressive performances in his latest release Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba and his 2021 release Shiddat. While the actor delivered boy-next-door vibes in the romantic drama Shiddat, he left everyone mighty impressed with his grey portrayal in the thriller Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba. Being an emerging actor, Sunny Kaushal embraced the challenges of his role as Abhimanyu Dinesh Pandit and mirrored the complexities of emotions, proving his range as an actor. With his stunning portrayal, Sunny Kaushal not only kept the audience on the edge of their seats but also left them curious with every frame. Advertisement While Sunny Kaushal made the netizens feel fear in Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba, he made everyone fall in love with him in Shiddat. As Jaggi, the actor effortlessly showcased feelings of love, care, worry, and everything in between. His transformation from a romantic boy to a grey character highlights his versatility, his ability to get into the skin of the character and pull it off with absolute finesse. His emotional depth and vulnerability shine through, making his performances relatable and authentic. The actor, for both his portrayals, garnered positive reviews from the audience and critics alike and cemented his stance as one of the most sought-after performers. Sunny Kaushals contrasting portrayals in his remarkable films have made him a favourite among his fanbase, and an in-demand actor among his contemporaries, proving that hes the future of Indian Cinema. Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba and Shiddat serve as testaments to Sunny Kaushals range, versatility, and undeniable charm, making him the face of new-age films. Tamil Nadu has unveiled a new glass bridge, which is 77 meters long and 10 meters wide. It will link the Vivekananda Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar statue in Kanniyakumari, saving travel time for tourists read more Preparations underway ahead of the inauguration of the glass bridge between Vivekananda rock memorial and Thiruvalluvar statue, by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, in Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu, December 30, 2024. PTI India has got its first glass bridge over the sea. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday (December 30) inaugurated a 77-meter-long and 10-metre-wide bridge that connects the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar statue in Kanniyakumari. The glass bridge offers breathtaking views of the sea below. The new bridge was built by the Tamil Nadu government at the cost of Rs 37 crore, which will cut the travel time for tourists from one monument to another. Advertisement Heres why the bridge is special. 1. The inauguration of the glass bridge in Tamil Nadu coincided with the silver jubilee of the unveiling of the Thiruvalluvar statue. The 133-foot tall statue built on one of the rocks in the sea was inaugurated on January 1, 2000, by the then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Known as the Statue of Wisdom, the Thiruvalluvar statue weighs 7,000 tonnes and is a major tourist attraction. 2. The state-of-the-art glass bridge is designed to withstand corrosion and strong sea winds. It is also resistant to potential damage from exposure to high humidity. It provides a thrilling experience of walking above the sea, a tourist official told PTI. India gets first glass bridge over sea in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.#TamilNadu CM @mkstalin unveils the classic glass bridge that connects the 133 ft tall Saint Tiruvalluvar statue and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. pic.twitter.com/dw1nyfYcSy All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) December 31, 2024 3. The bowstring arch bridge is expected to boost tourism in Kanyakumari, which attracts thousands of visitors daily to watch the sunrise and sunset. The glass bridge will save the time of tourists who earlier had to wait for ferry services, from the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, to go to the Thiruvalluvar statue. 4. Due to the rough sea and low tides, many times ferries could not dock near the Tiruvalluvar Statue. This resulted in visitors viewing the statue from the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, as per The Hindu report. The illuminated under-construction glass bridge between Vivekananda rock memorial to Thiruvalluvar statue, in Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu, December 26, 2024. File Photo/PTI 5. Now, the Tamil Nadu government has addressed this issue by constructing the bridge between the two monuments. Tamil Nadu Public Works and Highways Minister EV Velu had earlier said, Constructing the bridge is very challenging. We had to seek experts help to construct it over the rough sea and considering other factors like erosion, wind speed, etc. He expressed confidence that the bridge will become a tourist attraction in Kanyakumari. Advertisement 6. Tourists can now traverse the bridge, reducing travel time between the two landmarks and saving ferry fares. The covered bridge will give tourists a spectacular view of the sea, making it a picturesque experience. Construction work of the glass bridge between the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar statue, underway in Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu, December 26, 2024. File Photo/PTI 7. After inaugurating the bridge on Monday, Tamil Nadu CM Stalin, accompanied by Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, state ministers, MP Kanimozhi, and senior officials, took a walk across the bridge. The construction of the glass bridge aligns with the state governments aim to develop Kanniyakumari as a premier tourist spot. With inputs from agencies Indias space agency, Isro, launched its SpaDeX mission on Monday night, which will see two satellites docking and undocking. The success of this experiment will put the country in an elite club of nations capable of such a manoeuvre. The launch is also important for India to build its space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station read more ISRO's PSLV-C60 carrying SpaDeX and its payloads, lifts off from the first launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Image Courtesy: @isro/X Indias space agency ended 2024 on a high after Isro, the Indian Space Research Organisation, successfully launched its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission onboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) at 10.15 pm local time Monday. As the skies over Andhra Pradeshs Sriharikota lit up, Dr S Somanath, Isros chief, announced that they have got the right orbit. Soon after, the space agency posted on X, Successful separation of SpaDeX satellites marks another milestone in Indias space journey. Advertisement As India and Isro celebrate this milestone, we try to understand why this mission is so crucial and how it will help the space agency in the coming years. What exactly is space docking? SpaDeX, or space docking, is a complicated process in which two spacecraft connect while orbiting the Earth. Docking is crucial for missions that require heavy spacecraft and equipment that cannot be launched in one go. For instance, the International Space Station which comprises many modules was launched separately and then brought together in space. If Indias SpaDeX mission is successful Isros Dr Somanath said the docking is estimated to take place on January 7 it will join a small elite club of nations that can do the same. Currently, only the United States, Russia and China are capable of carrying out docking. Space expert Girish Linganna said to The Week, Nasa, the US space agency, has been a leader in docking technology. Its Gemini programme in the 1960s was the first to successfully dock two spacecraft in orbit, paving the way for future missions to the Moon, such as the Apollo programme. Nasa continues to use docking technology today with the International Space Station (ISS), where spacecraft regularly dock to deliver astronauts and supplies. Russia, through its space agency Roscosmos, also has a long history of expertise in docking. Its Soyuz spacecraft has been a reliable transport vehicle for astronauts to the ISS for decades. A notable achievement was the Apollo-Soyuz test project in 1975, the first international space mission, where a Soyuz spacecraft docked with an American Apollo spacecraft, showcasing advanced docking technology and international collaboration, added Linganna. Advertisement ISRO chairman Dr Somnath has said that the docking is estimated to take place on January 7. If successful, India will join a small elite club of nations that can do the same. PTI What will happen in Indias SpaDeX mission? Indias space docking mission will see two small spacecraft (about 220 kg each), named Chaser and Target, being deployed into a 470 km orbit. According to Isro, once the satellites are in the intended orbit, the launch vehicle will provide the necessary velocity, which will allow them to drift away from each other. Once the two satellites are around 10-20 km away from each other, the propulsion system on Target will be fired. As a result of this, the satellites will stop drifting away. Eventually, if all goes as planned, Chaser will reduce the distance between the two and will finally dock with Target. Once the docking is complete, the satellites will transfer electrical power between themselves. Space experts note that while Isros SpaDeX mission is similar to past docking experiments what makes it even more significant is the small size of the satellites. They state the smaller the size of the satellites, the more challenging, as it requires greater precision. Advertisement They further note that what makes Indias SpaDeX even more notable is the economics of the mission. This mission costs only Rs 375 crore, which highlights Indias ability to deliver high-quality results without excessive expenditure. Once the docking is completed, the two satellites will transfer electric power. They will later separate and continue working on their own for the next two years. SpaDeX lifted off at 10 pm, after being rescheduled by two minutes, on board the PSLV-C60 rocket from ISROs Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradeshs Sriharikota. PTI Why is Isros SpaDeX mission important? Indias SpaDeX mission is vital to the countrys future space plans. The SpaDeX mission is a precursor to Indias vision of having its own space station the Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035. The station will have five modules that will be docked together in space. According to an Indian Express report, the first of these modules will be launched in 2028. However, if India didnt have or execute the docking technology the space station wouldnt be possible. Moreover, the SpaDeX mission will also be vital for Indias Chandrayaan-4 mission in which Isro is attempting to collect three kilogrammes of lunar samples from a water-ice-rich area close to the south pole of the moon and then deliver the samples to Earth. For the mission, Isro will launch five spacecraft modules, which will then need to be docked. Advertisement The mission is also important for Indias human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan, which is scheduled for 2026. With this mission, Indias space programme has ended the year the same way it began 2024 with a bang. For the unaware, it started 2024 with a PSLV launch on January 1 and now ends with the SpaDeX mission. We cant wait to see what comes next in 2025. With inputs from agencies Nimisha Priya, a 36-year-old Malayali nurse, has been in prison in Yemen since 2017 for allegedly murdering a Yemeni national. Now, the president of the West Asian nation has approved her death penalty. Can India intervene? read more Indian nurse Nimisha Priya is in Yemen jail since 2017 for the murder of a citizen. File Photo/News18 Malayalam Yemen President Rashad al-Alimi has given a nod to the death sentence of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who is lodged at the Central prison in Yemens capital Sanaa for allegedly murdering a Yemeni national. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reacted to the development, saying it is extending all possible help to her. We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Ms. Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement on Tuesday (December 31). Advertisement Our response to media queries regarding the case of Ms. Nimisha Priya:https://t.co/DlviLboqKG pic.twitter.com/tSgBlmitCy Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 31, 2024 Lets take a closer look. Who is Nimisha Priya? Nimisha Priya, a 36-year-old nurse, is a native of Palakkad in Kerala. She left for Yemen in 2008, when she was just 19 years old, to help her parents, who were daily-wage labourers, as per The Hindu report. She worked at a few clinics in the West Asian country. In 2011, she returned to Kerala to marry Tomy Thomas. The couple then travelled to Yemen, where Thomas started work as an electricians assistant for a paltry sum, reported BBC. After their daughter was born in 2012, the pair struggled to financially survive in Yemen. In 2014, Thomas and the child returned to Keralas Kochi. As per BBC, Priya decided to open her own clinic in 2014. However, as per Yemeni law, she needed a local as a partner. This is where Talal Abdo Mahdi came into the picture and how Priyas ordeal began. The Nimisha Priya case Mahdi, who ran a textile store, was a regular at the clinic where Nimisha worked. He even came to Kerala in January 2015 to attend the baptism of Priyas daughter, according to an Indian Express report. A month later, Priya returned to Yemen. In March of that year, a civil war broke out in the West Asian country, preventing her husband and daughters return. Priya opened her clinic with Mehdis help but soon started complaining about him, her husband told BBC. A plea moved by her mother, Prema Kumari, in the Delhi High Court alleges Mahdi harassed Priya. Advertisement As per BBC, the petition states that Mahdi stole a photograph of Nimishas wedding when he visited their home in Kochi and he later manipulated it to claim he was married to Nimisha. It claimed he physically tortured her and took away all the revenue collection from the clinic, adding that their relationship deteriorated when Nimisha questioned him about embezzlement of funds. According to Priyas family, she could not leave Yemen as her passport and travel documents were seized by Mahdi. He reportedly stopped her from speaking to her family back home, took control of the clinic and got hold of all her ornaments. Advertisement Mahdi threatened her with a gun" on several occasions. When Priya approached the police in Sanaa, instead of taking any action against him, they locked her up for six days, the petition states. In July 2017, Priya allegedly contacted the warden of a jail near her clinic, who suggested she sedate Mahdi and then get her passport, as per NDTV. However, the dose did not work on him as Mahdi was a substance abuser. Priya again allegedly tried to sedate Mahdi, with the assistance of her fellow nurse Hannan, but he died due to overdose. The two panicked and chopped Mahdis body, later dumping it in a water tank, reported Indian Express. Advertisement They were eventually arrested. Priya was nabbed while attempting to flee Yemen. Thomas, her husband, told BBC last November that she called him from prison a few days after her arrest, with both crying on the call. She said she had done all this for me and our child. She could have taken the easy way and lived with Mahdi, but she didnt want to do that. My love and affection for her has grown after this ordeal. In 2018, Priya was convicted of murder. She was sentenced to death by a trial court in Sanaa in 2020 and Yemens Supreme Judicial Council dismissed her appeal in November 2023. Advertisement It however gave her the option of paying blood money to the victims family, which would help her escape the death penalty. Is blood money her last option? Islamic law allows victims of crimes or their families (in case of murder) to have a say in the punishment of criminals. As per Indian Express, the family of a murder victim can forgive the killer in exchange for monetary compensation. This is known as diyya or blood money. The amount is usually decided between the murderers family or representatives and the victims family. Priyas mother, Prema Kumari, has been in Yemens capital since earlier this year to negotiate blood money with the victims family. She is being assisted by the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, an organisation of NRI social workers in Yemen. However, the talks hit a roadblock in September after Abdullah Ameer, the lawyer appointed by the Indian Embassy, demanded a pre-negotiation fee of $20,000 (about Rs 16.6 lakh), as per Manorama Online. Samuel Jerome Bhaskaran, a member of the Save Nimisha Priya International Council, told The Hindu from Yemen on Monday (December 30) that Priyas death penalty can be waived, if the victims family pardons her in exchange for blood money. The negotiations came to a halt following the release in the delay of the second instalment of the fee asked by the lawyer engaged on behalf of Nimisha Priya to carry out the talks with the family members and tribal leaders, he said. #JustIn | MEA said that the Indian govt is offering assistance after Yemen's president approved the execution of Nimisha Priya's death sentence for the murder of her abusive husband Kaveri Gupta | @siddhantvm explains #yemen #nimishapriya#yemen #nimishapriya #yemennews pic.twitter.com/p1Er0VT33T News18 (@CNNnews18) December 31, 2024 The council said the lawyer asked for a total fee of $40,000 (about Rs 34.24 lakh) as the pre-negotiation fee, of which nearly $20,000 was transferred to him through the Indian Embassy in Yemen in July this year. However, the lawyer put the condition that talks would continue only when he receives the rest of the amount. The council raised a part of the lawyers fee through crowdfunding but they could not ensure transparency about the utilisation of funds. Now, with the Yemen president approving Priyas death sentence, time is running out for her family and supporters to secure a pardon for her. With inputs from agencies When the clock strikes 12, on New Years Eve it is a moment for fireworks and champagne for many, but for some, its a time to embrace quirky customs and heartfelt traditions. From plate smashing in Spain to sprinkling salt in Turkey and crying together in Taiwan, each country has fascinating customs read more For many, a welcoming a new year calls for fireworks and champagne, but for some, its a time to embrace quirky customs and heartfelt traditions. Image for Representation.Pixabay As the clock strikes midnight on New Years Eve, people across the globe come together to celebrate the arrival of a new year. For many, this moment calls for fireworks and champagne, but for some, its a time to embrace quirky customs and heartfelt traditions. From eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight to smashing plates for good luck, every culture has its own special way of welcoming the New Year. Some traditions will make you smile, others may leave you scratching your head, but all are sure to spark inspiration for your own celebrations. Advertisement Heres a glimpse into some of these fascinating customs. Hanging onions at the doorstep In Greece, its common to see onions hanging outside doors on New Years Eve. This quirky tradition is believed to bring good luck for the coming year, as the onions roots symbolise continuous growth. Its a way of ensuring prosperity and positive energy in the household for the year ahead. Plate smashing In Denmark, people ring in the New Year with a bit of unconventional house cleaning. Throughout the year, residents save up chipped and unused dishes, and on New Years Eve, they smash them joyfully against the doors of friends and family. The more shattered pieces, the better, as broken plates are considered a sign of good luck and strong relationships in the year to come. Throughout the year, residents save up chipped and unused dishes, and on New Years Eve, Danes smash them joyfully against the doors of friends and family on New Years eve. File image/ AFP Wearing colourful underwear In several Latin American countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and Bolivia, as well as in Spain and Italy, the colour of your underwear on New Years Eve is believed to influence your fortune. According to legend, yellow will bring money, and red will bring love, while white can bring peace and pink underwear is said to bring affection, kindness. Thus, each colour essentially has an underlying (pun-intended) reason, based on the individuals goals for the upcoming year. Sprinkling salt At midnight in Turkey, its traditional to sprinkle salt on the doorstep, a gesture believed to bring prosperity and peace for the new year. The custom is rooted in the idea that salt protects the home from negativity, ushering in a fresh start. Similarly, in Chinese New Year traditions, cinnamon is thought to bring good luck. At midnight in Turkey, its traditional to sprinkle salt on the doorstep, a gesture believed to bring prosperity and peace for the new year. Pixabay (Representational Image) Crying together In Taiwan, New Years celebrations begin with an unexpected yet heartwarming tradition: crying together. Families and friends gather to let out their emotions, allowing everyone to vent and find comfort in shared experiences. This ritual, which defies the conventional idea of happiness on New Years Eve, provides a way for people to release pent-up feelings and start the year with emotional healing. Interestingly, the practice was started as a joke by a 22-year-old university student on Facebook in 2023, but it quickly gained popularity, becoming a heartfelt tradition. Eating 12 grapes In Spain, as the clock strikes midnight, locals follow a fun tradition called Las doce uvas de la suerte, or The Twelve Grapes of Luck." Advertisement As the twelve chimes of the clock ring out, Spaniards attempt to eat one grape for each bell toll, each representing good luck for a month in the upcoming year. The challenge is to swallow all twelve grapes in time, bringing a comical start to New Years Day. The tradition was introduced by the vine growers in the Alicante area in the 1800s. Ringing 108 temple bells In Japan, New Years Eve, or Omisoka, is a time for reflection and spiritual cleansing. At Buddhist temples across the country, a ritual called Joya no Kane takes place, where large temple bells are rung 108 times. Each bell represents one of the 108 worldly temptations, and the ringing serves to cleanse individuals of these sins, preparing them for a fresh and spiritually purified start to the New Year. At Buddhist temples across the country, a ritual called Joya no Kane takes place, where large temple bells are rung 108 times. Image for Representation. Pixabay Furniture tossing In Johannesburg, South Africa, its common to see old furniture being thrown out of windows on New Years Eve. This dramatic gesture of Out with the Old is a symbolic act of discarding unwanted items, representing a fresh start and renewal for the coming year. While it may seem unconventional, this practice fosters a spirit of communal renewal and shared experiences. Advertisement Throwing white flowers in the ocean In Brazil, on New Years Eve, many people head to the beach to honour Yemoja, the Goddess of the Sea. Dressed in white, locals throw flowers and candles into the ocean as offerings, seeking her blessings for the year ahead. This tradition is particularly prominent at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where the rituals create a serene and beautiful atmosphere. In Brazil, on New Years Eve, many people head to the beach to honour Yemoja, the Goddess of the Sea and throw white flowers into the sea. File image. AP Eating 12 meals In Estonia, the New Years celebrations involve not just one meal, but up to twelve. Its believed that eating twelve meals on New Years Day will bring good luck for the year ahead, with the number twelve considered especially lucky. Interestingly, its not seen as rude to leave food on the plate, as some intentionally do so for the spirits of departed family members, inviting them to join in the feast. Advertisement Walking around with an empty suitcase In Colombia, to ensure a year filled with travel and adventure, its customary to walk around the block with an empty suitcase at midnight. This quirky ritual is thought to invite wanderlust and promise exciting journeys throughout the year, allowing for new adventures and experiences to unfold. Mistletoe and bread In Ireland, single women place mistletoe under their pillows on New Years Eve, hoping to find love in the coming year. Additionally, some Irish households partake in a tradition of banging bread against walls and doors to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. This ensures that the coming year will be full of prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. With input from agencies South Korea is grieving the loss of 179 lives in its worst aviation disaster in decades. As the investigation continues, fresh concerns about an unusual concrete wall near the runway are being raised. The plane, which landed without wheels, skidded off the runway and crashed into the structure read more Firefighters take a look at the wreckage of the aircraft at Muan International Airport, in Muan, South Korea, December 31, 2024. Reuters Mayday, mayday, mayday. Before the emergency landing, the pilot repeated the phrase three times and mentioned bird strike. ALSO READ | South Korean airplane crash: Why bird strike theory behind mishap that killed 179 is being questioned South Korea is mourning the loss of 179 lives in the countrys worst aviation disaster in decades, which has deeply unsettled a nation already facing political unrest. The political crisis recently resulted in the back-to-back impeachments of President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duk-soo. Advertisement In the Jeju plane crash case, attention is now turning to an unusual concrete wall near the runway. After landing without its wheels, Jeju Air flight 7C2216 skidded off the runway and collided with the structure. Why was a wall located so close to the runway? Did its presence lead to the deaths of 179 passengers? Could the tragedy have been averted if the wall had not been there? We take a look at some of these questions: Concerns over the unusual wall near the runway Officials said that Sundays crash took place after a bird strike, but experts argue that such an incident alone is unlikely to explain the scale of the disaster. Investigators are now examining the role of the localiser antenna - positioned at the end of the runway to assist landings - in the crash. This includes investigating the concrete embankment on which it was mounted, transport ministry officials said during a media briefing. Experts told The New York Times that most airports avoid placing such structures close to runways. When they do exist, they are typically constructed from softer materials designed to break apart or absorb impact, minimising damage to planes that overrun runways. Footage shows the Jeju Air flight veering off the runway before striking the wall and erupting in flames at Muan International Airport. Advertisement #FPVideo: Tragedy struck South Korea as a Jeju Air Flight, carrying 181 on board- including passengers and crew from Bangkok, crashed at Muan International Airport. The plane landed without its landing gear, veered off the runway, and burst into flames after hitting a wall. pic.twitter.com/6ZruvyqTSt Firstpost (@firstpost) December 29, 2024 Notably, while localiser antennas are usually placed at the ends of runways to assist with landings, this particular antenna was installed on top of a concrete-reinforced mound. Runway safety areas, the zones near runways, are generally designed to provide clear, unobstructed space for aircraft that overrun, undershoot, or veer off course during landing. ALSO READ | South Korea plane crash: Is the planes rear safest to survive mishap? South Korea plane crash cause: What experts said Hassan Shahidi, president of the Flight Safety Foundation, a nonprofit offering safety guidance to the aviation sector, told The New York Times that barriers near runways should break easily in the case of a runway overrun so the impact isnt catastrophic. Advertisement What we saw here was a head-on collision with a concrete wall that appears very thick, Shahidi added. Aviation expert David Learmount told Sky News TV that the failure to deploy landing gear properly was not the cause of the fatalities. The passengers were killed by hitting a solid structure just over the end of the runway where a solid structure should not be, he argued. Learmount said that if the obstruction had not been present, the aircraft would have come to rest with most - possibly all - those on board still alive. Christian Beckert, a flight safety expert and Lufthansa pilot based in Munich, told Reuters, Normally, on an airport with a runway at the end, you dont have a wall. Advertisement You more have maybe an engineered material arresting system, which lets the aeroplane sink into the ground a little bit and brakes (it), he explained. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) sets global standards requiring runway overruns to be cleared to minimise aircraft damage, but it lacks enforcement power for these guidelines. I have never seen anything quite like this before, Learmount told The Telegraph UK. There is no justification for the structure - everybody knows it is meant to be frangible. It is much easier to build something above ground than dig below. That is a possibility. ALSO READ | Honeymoons, first foreign trips and celebrations: Jeju Air crash leaves a trail of heartbreak Kim In-gyu, head of the Flight Training Centre at Korea Aerospace University, also questioned the dune-like structure near the runway. If there was no dune there, the airliner would have remained more intact, Kim said on South Koreas CBS radio news show. While watching the footage, I was puzzled the most by the existence of this dune. Ive never seen something like this in any other airports in the world. Shawn Pruchnicki, an assistant professor at Ohio State Universitys college of engineering, told CNN, I just cannot think of anything more irresponsible than what (South Korea aviation officials) have done. In my opinion, they are responsible for the amount of people that were killed because of that design, he said. Its just uncomfortable that you would put a concrete barrier, because what that does is that guarantees destruction and death to the occupants of an airplane thats going to hit, Pruchnicki told the media outlet. Despite these concerns, an official at Muan International Airport told This Week in Asia on Sunday that there is nothing wrong with this set-up. Whats next in the investigation? On Monday morning, investigators worked to identify some of the more than two dozen victims yet to be named, as grieving families gathered inside the terminal at Muan International Airport. The crash claimed the lives of mainly local residents returning from holidays in Thailand, along with two Thai nationals. Ministry officials stated that the aircrafts flight data and cockpit voice recorders had been transported to a research centre at Gimpo International Airport in Seoul for analysis. They earlier said that it could take months to conclude the investigation into the crash. The wreckage of the Jeju Air aircraft that went off the runway and crashed lies at Muan International Airport, in Muan, South Korea. Reuters Muan International Airport will remain closed until Wednesday, while all other international and regional airports in South Korea, including the main hub at Incheon International Airport, are operating as normal. In line with international aviation regulations, South Korea will oversee the civil investigation into the accident, with mandatory involvement from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as the aircraft was designed and built in the United States. A large memorial has been set up in a gymnasium about 9 kilometres (5 miles) from the crash site, where mourners, including acting President Choi, have been paying their respects. Jeju Air flight 7C2216 departed Bangkok and was attempting to land at Muan International Airport in southern South Korea. Following an initial failed landing attempt, the ground control centre issued a bird strike warning. The pilot then sent out a distress signal before the Boeing 737-800 landed with its front landing gear retracted, overshot the runway, collided with a concrete barrier, and erupted into flames. With inputs from agencies MBABANE Status Capital Building Society has accused Dave Van Niekerk of bribing key players at FSRA. It is alleged that money was paid to Senzo Hlatshwayo, who is the Chairman of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), and Joel Dlamini, who is a member of the FSRAs Board of Directors. The Acting Managing Director of Status Capital Building Society, Auto Sibusiso Dlamini, who is also the Head of IT, said the conduct of the FSRA towards the building society was unheard of. He said it could only be justified by the fact that those running FSRA have allegedly been captured by Niekerk and his associates. He accused them of having ulterior motives and bias against Status Capital. These allegations have been made in an application, in which Status Capital has instituted proceedings against FSRA and the curator, Bimal De Silva, who was appointed by FSRA to manage the affairs of Status Capital. Operation In this matter, Status Capital is seeking an order suspending the operation of a directive issued by FSRA on December 10, 2024, directing it (Status Capital) to, with immediate effect, stop performing any further transactions on all its bank accounts without the permission of the regulatory authority. Status Capital also applied for the suspension of the operation of certain conditions placed on its licence by FSRA with immediate effect. The decision of FSRA to appoint a curator for Status Capital, according to the latter, will be of no force and effect, and the curator will have no powers to act or make decisions on behalf of the applicant pending Part B of the application. In Part B of the application, Status Capital is seeking an order that FSRAs directive of December 10, 2024, be reviewed and set aside, and it be declared of no force and effect. The building society further prayed that FSRAs decision to place conditions and restrictions on its (Status Capital) licence be reviewed and set aside and that they be declared of no force and effect. Further, Status Capital wants the court to order that the decision of FSRA of December 17, 2024, to appoint a curator to manage its affairs be reviewed and set aside, and be declared null and void. In Status Capitals founding papers, the acting MD stated that the building society will never be able to recoup the monies it is reportedly owed by Swaziland Debt Factoring Firm (Pty) Ltd (SDFF) and Status Asset Management (Pty) Ltd SAM. As already explained, Mr Van Niekerk is the orchestrator behind the fraud scheme using the aforesaid companies and Ecsponent, and certain individuals at the FSRA are attempting to protect him, Auto submitted. Crimes He told the court that the companies, SDFF and SAM, were allegedly used by Van Niekerk as vehicles and instruments to commit financial crimes. Mr Van Niekerk stole money from the applicant (Status Capital) using the vehicles of SDFF and SAM. The FSRA is acutely aware of the fact and the involvement of Mr Van Niekerk and his associates. The conduct of Mr Van Niekerk was set out in detail in a report that was produced by Grant Thornton Accountants for the FSRA, said Auto. In June 2021, the FSRA issued a directive in terms of which it directed Status Capital to disinvest the investments it made with SDFF and SAM. The aforesaid companies unlawfully refused to comply with the FSRAs June Directive and also stopped making monthly interest payments to the applicant. Auto submitted that SDFF and SAMs alleged unlawful refusal to comply with the June directive and their obligations in terms of the debenture agreements caused liquidity problems for Status Capital. In the filed papers, Auto narrated to the court that the building society invested about E100 million in SDFF and SAM. He alleged that the person who controls these companies is Van Niekerk. He is also the alleged mastermind behind Ecsponent Eswatini Limited, which has caused innocent members of the public to lose hundreds of millions of Emalangeni. Damning records and documents have been received which show that the beneficial owner of SDFF is Mr Van Niekerk, a company, which was used by the SDFF, as a vehicle to commit fraud and embezzlement, and that he has been making or facilitating payments to certain key players at the FSRA as bribes, Auto alleged. The veracity of these allegations is still to be tested in court. FSRA is yet to file answering papers. Status Capital is represented by Phesheya Maphalala of S.V. Mdladla and Associates in the matter. The application was filed ex parte (without serving the respondents). However, the court directed that the respondents be served with the papers. He informed the court that those are Senzo Hlatshwayo, who is the Chairman of the FSRA, and Joel Dlamini, who is a member of the FSRAs Board of Directors. According to Auto, the applicant brought applications to liquidate SDFF and SAM to recover the funds it had invested with these companies. Possible The FSRA, however, that may be possible, according to Auto, opposed the liquidation application of SDFF and communicated to Status Capitals lawyers that it would allegedly destroy the building society by placing it under curatorship or liquidation if it persisted with the liquidation application. Status Capital has not withdrawn the liquidation application, and the FSRA, as it has promised, allegedly took several unlawful steps to destroy the former, despite its calls for assistance by the regulator. The unlawful steps taken by the FSRA are to issue unlawful directives, placing restrictions on the applicants licenses and appointing a curator for the applicant without making any rules regarding the powers, functions and duties of the curator as is required in terms of Section 71(2) of the FSRA Act. The only thing left to do for the FSRA is to place the applicant under liquidation, submitted Auto. He argued that the alleged threats of FSRA were made on December 4, 2024, at the hearing of the SDFF liquidation application after the court had expressed serious concerns about the motives behind FSRA opposing the liquidation application. He alleged that FSRA did not dispute its threats to destroy Status Capital. Auto said, instead, FSRA purportedly followed through on the threats. Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syrias de facto leader, envisions a four-year timeline for elections and a three-year plan to draft a new constitution, signalling a transformative phase for the war-torn nation. As Syria grapples with rebuilding its infrastructure and addressing ethnic and geopolitical challenges, Sharaa has vowed to dissolve the Islamist group he once led read more Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, speaks to the media after the ousting of Syria's Bashar al-Assad, in Damascus, Syria, December 23, 2024. File Image/Reuters Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syrias de facto leader, has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the war-torn nation, stating the need for constitutional reform and eventual elections. In an interview with Saudi network Al Arabiya, Sharaa stated that elections could take up to four years, while drafting a new constitution might take three years. He stressed the importance of creating a constitution that can stand the test of time. Sharaas rise to power follows the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8, marking the end of a 13-year civil war. As leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Sharaas approach aims to pivot the group away from its Islamist origins toward a more inclusive and democratic governance model. Advertisement A country cannot be run by the mentality of groups and militias, Sharaa asserted, signalling plans to dissolve HTS during a national dialogue conference. The new administration has pledged to deliver a transitional phase characterised by stability and rebuilding, hoping to utilise this rare opportunity to set a lasting foundation for a unified Syria. Sharaa highlighted that the upcoming national dialogue would prioritise widespread participation, ensuring that all ethnic and religious communities have a voice in shaping Syrias future. How Sharaa plans to implement his vision for Syria Central to Sharaas strategy is a national dialogue conference involving a broad spectrum of Syrian society. This forum will address critical issues, including the dissolution of parliament and constitutional reform. Sharaas government has promised to protect minority rights and avoid sectarian strife, aiming to allay fears of hardline Islamist rule. Discussions are also ongoing with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to resolve longstanding disputes in northeastern Syria. Sharaa pointed to the states opposition to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) using Syria as a base for attacks against Turkey, aiming to integrate Kurdish armed forces into Syrias defense framework. This conciliatory approach is designed to ensure the inclusion of all parties while maintaining Syrias sovereignty. Members of the HTS rebel group that overthrew the Assad regime pose for a portrait in the ancient town of old Damascus, in Syria, December 28, 2024. File Image/AP The dissolution of HTS, once aligned with extremist groups such as al-Qaeda, is seen as a pivotal step in gaining trust among Syrias neighbours and the international community. While the groups transformation into a governing force has raised eyebrows, Sharaa has reiterated his commitment to transitioning from revolutionary rule to state governance. We will not work on exporting the revolution. We want to manage the phase with the mentality of the state and not revolution, he said. What Sharaa has planned for Syria internationally Sharaa has expressed interest in maintaining strategic ties with Russia, which supported Assad during the civil war and retains military bases in Syria. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov acknowledged ongoing negotiations regarding the future of these bases, aiming for mutually beneficial terms. Russias presence in Syria remains a critical factor in regional geopolitics, and Sharaas conciliatory stance signals a desire to maintain stability. Advertisement Meanwhile, Sharaas administration hopes for improved relations with the United States, advocating for the lifting of sanctions and the removal of the $10 million bounty on his head. Senior US diplomats visiting Damascus have described Sharaa as pragmatic, signalling a potential thaw in US-Syria relations. International support is beginning to flow into Syria. Germany has pledged 60 million for education, womens rights, and rebuilding efforts, channeling funds through NGOs and UN agencies. The projects aim to rebuild schools, empower women, and create opportunities for a war-torn generation. Ukraine has also extended humanitarian aid, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stating the potential for mutual stability through cooperation. We can help restore stability in Syria after years of Russian interference, and this will undoubtedly help us restore peace for ourselves, he said. Advertisement Ukraines Grain from Ukraine initiative has already announced critical food supplies to Syria, showcasing a growing partnership. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha attends a press conference with Syrias foreign minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, after the ousting of Syrias Bashar al-Assad, in Damascus, Syria, December 30, 2024. File Image/Reuters Turkey has also entered the picture, with plans to provide electricity to Syria and Lebanon. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar highlighted ongoing assessments of Syrias energy infrastructure, which has been severely degraded during the conflict. These initiatives aim to address Syrias severe power shortages and lay the groundwork for sustainable development. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has stated Ankaras willingness to assist in Syrias reconstruction, reopening pathways for cooperation. What criticisms still remain at large Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The internationally recognised Syrian opposition has not been included in the national dialogue. Hadi al-Bahra, a former leader of the opposition coalition, confirmed no communication with Sharaas administration. This exclusion has raised concerns about the inclusivity of the proposed reforms. Human rights activists and Kurdish groups have expressed concerns over womens rights and minority protections under the new government. Thousands of women recently protested in Qamishli, demanding equality and condemning Turkish-backed military campaigns in Kurdish regions. Activists fear that hardline Islamist policies could marginalise women and minorities. Advertisement Women hold Womens Protection Units (YPJ) flags during a rally demanding the new Islamist rulers in Damascus respect womens rights and condemn Turkish-backed military campaigns in Kurdish-led regions of the north, in the northeastern city of Qamishli, Syria, December 23, 2024. File Image/Reuters Tensions between Turkish-backed Syrian rebels and Kurdish-led forces have also escalated, particularly in strategic regions such as Kobani and Manbij. The new administrations ability to mediate these conflicts will be crucial in fostering national unity. Sharaas administration faces the monumental task of balancing reconstruction, reconciliation, and reform. While the path ahead is fraught with obstacles, the groundwork is being laid for a new chapter in Syrias history. The chance we have today doesnt come every 5 or 10 years, said al-Sharaa in the interview. We want the constitution to last for the longest time possible. With inputs from agencies Since the November election, Elon Musk, who has proclaimed himself First Buddy, has been a constant presence around Donald Trump. Musk moved into the $2,000 (Rs 1.7 lakh) per night Banyan cottage on Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate which has given him unprecedented access to the US President-elect read more Elon Musk has moved into Mar-a-Lago since around Election Day. File Image/Reuters Prior to the 2024 US election, Elon Musk went all in on Donald Trump. The worlds richest man gave Trump hundreds of millions of dollars and even campaigned with him in swing states. Ever since the election, Musk, who has proclaimed himself First Buddy, has been a constant presence at Trumps side. Now, Musks $2,000 (Rs 1.7 lakh) per night stay at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club in Florida is gaining attention. But what do we know? Advertisement Lets take a closer look: Musk moves into Mar-a-Lago As per The New York Times, Musk is currently staying at Banyan cottage at Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate. The cottage is walking distance from Trumps main house on the property. The newspaper reported that Musk shifted into the cottage around Election Day. He then watched the US results come in with Trump. The move has given Musk unprecedented access to Trump during the transition. Musk has been able to attend important meetings of the Trump transition team including policy discussions, personnel meetings and phone calls with foreign leaders. It also allows him to unexpectedly drop in on the US President-elect during his dinners. Musk recently did so when Trump was dining with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The newspaper reported that the Musk was not initially expected to be part of the dinner but joined as it was underway. As per The Independent, Musk has brought his children and their nannies with him to the Mar-a-Lago estate. Musk is also known to request meals outside the timings of Mar-a-Lagos kitchen. Musk left the property around Christmas but is expected to return shortly. This isnt the first time an acquaintance of Trump has used the cottage. Advertisement Ex-House Speaker Boehner stayed at Banyan with a friend a few years before Trump ran for president. Trump has bragged to people that Musk is renting the cottage. A general view of President-elect Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago property, in Palm Beach, Florida. It is believed to be worth $325 million. File image/Reuters Sources told the newspaper the luxury cottage costs around $2,000 per night. It remains to be seen how much Musk ultimately forks out for the cottage given that Mar-a-Lago guests are billed only at the end of their stay. But Trump isnt averse to making a quick buck. According to Rolling Stone, Trump previously overinflated prices on his properties when he was commander-in-chief. For example, he charged the Secret Service as much as five times as the government rate for agents traveling with him and his family during his visits to Mar-a-Lago and his other hotels when he was president. Advertisement Trump is said to have increased the annual membership fee at Mar-a-Lago to $1 million. Musk isnt alone either. Vice President-elect JD Vance, among others, has also rented out one of the cottages at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, as per The New York Times. Trump on Friday, in a Truth Social post, urged Musk to return to Mar-a-Lago. Trump wrote: Where are you? When are you coming to the Center of the Universe, Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Years Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! DJT. The X in Trumps post referred to Musks four-year-old-son. Rolling Stone quoted Trump staff as saying that the post was intended to be a private missive. Advertisement Trump-Musk bromance going strong The Trump-Musk bromance seems to be going strong. Trump on Saturday sided with key supporter and billionaire tech CEO Elon Musk in a public dispute over the use of the H-1B visa, saying he fully backs the program for foreign tech workers opposed by some of his supporters. Trumps remarks followed a series of social media posts from Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who vowed late Friday to go to war to defend the visa program for foreign tech workers. US President-elect Donald Trump came out on Elon Musks side over the H-1B visas. Reuters Trump, who moved to limit the visas use during his first presidency, told The New York Post on Saturday he was likewise in favour of the visa program. I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. Its a great program, he was quoted as saying. Advertisement Musk, a naturalised US citizen born in South Africa, has held an H-1B visa, and his electric-car company Tesla obtained 724 of the visas this year. H-1B visas are typically for three-year periods, though holders can extend them or apply for green cards. Trump has promised to deport all immigrants who are in the US illegally, deploy tariffs to help create more jobs for American citizens and severely restrict immigration. With inputs from agencies ISRO Space Docking Experiment (SpaDex) on board a PSLV rocket was successfully launched on Monday night from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota read more India has joined an exclusive group of nations on Monday night after the countrys space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) on board a PSLV rocket was launched successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Just after 10 pm on Monday (December 30, 2024), PSLV-C60 rocket lifted from the first launchpad at Sriharikota and placed two small satellites, each weighing 220 kg, in the right orbit of 475 km circular orbit, after over 15 minutes of flight. The first satellite separated 15.1 minutes after launch, followed by the second at 15.2 minutes. Advertisement I announce the successful launch of the PSLV-C60 for the SpaDeX mission The rocket has placed the satellites in the right orbit congratulations to the entire team of the PSLV project who put the satellites in the right orbit. Also, the SpaDeX team which worked in a very innovative, novel, cost-effective docking demonstration mission using two small satellite bus architectures, Somanath said. So, as far as we are concerned, the rocket has placed the spacecraft in the right orbit and the SpaDeX satellites have moved one behind the other, and over the period of time, it will pick up further distance, travel about 20 km away and then the rendezvous and docking process will start. And we hope that the docking process can happen in another week and the nominal time is going to be approximately January 7, Somanath further said in his address from the Mission Control Centre. Relive the Liftoff! Experience the majestic PSLV-C60 launch carrying SpaDeX and groundbreaking payloads. Enjoy breathtaking images of this milestone in Indias space journey! #SpaDeX #PSLV #ISRO @DrJitendraSingh pic.twitter.com/PWdzY0B7nQ ISRO (@isro) December 30, 2024 Meanwhile, Director of the UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) M Sankaran explained that the chaser and target spacecraft were launched with a small relative velocity, allowing them to move towards each other for potential future docking operations. What is SpaDeX mission? SpaDeX is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV. As per ISRO, the primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop as well as demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a low-Earth circular orbit. Advertisement On Monday (December 30, 2024), two of ISROs spacecrafts that would aid the space agency in demonstrating space docking, a critical technology for future space missions, got separated successfully and were placed into the desired orbit. The launch was initially scheduled for 9:58 pm on December 30 but was rescheduled to 10 pm following a conjunction study to ensure no close proximity between satellites in orbit. The ISRO chief explained, If you find there is any close proximity between satellites, then we have to move the current satellite a little bit. Either, we delay it or make it early, so that this proximity condition does not occur. Advertisement Later, talking to reporters at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Somanath said this mission also has the POEM-4 which has 24 payloads to perform research and development. Dubbed as a prelude to the ISRO setting up its own Space Station by 2035, the PSLV-C60 mission would also make India join an elite club in achieving this feat which is expected to take place in the coming days. The 44.5-metre-tall rocket carried two spacecraft Spacecraft A and B, each weighing 220 kg which would help in space docking, satellite servicing and interplanetary missions. PSLV-C60 mission 99th, ISRO ready for 100th launch ISRO chief on Monday further said, So, all of you have seen the majestic lift-off and the launch of the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) rocket, and for us, this is the 99th launch of any vehicle from Satish Dhawan Space Centre. That is also a very important number. So, we are going for the 100th launch at the beginning of next year. The Indian space agency is gearing up to achieve a significant milestone with a Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle mission scheduled in January which will be the 100th launch from the Sriharikota spaceport. Advertisement ISROs future launches Talking about ISROs planned launches for future, Somanath said, In 2025, we will have many missions to start with the GSLV launching the (navigation satellite) NVS-02 in the month of January. ISRO successfully placed a navigation satellite onboard the GSLV-F12/NVS-01 rocket in May 2023. This GSLV rocket successfully deployed the NVS-01 navigation satellite, weighing about 2,232 kg into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The NVS-01 was the first of the second-generation satellites envisaged for the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) services. With inputs from PTI. As we enter the new year, hopefully more parts of the world will learn to see through the lies propagated under the protecting democracy agenda to explain the intervention of the West in other countries electoral processes read more As the year 2024 comes to a close, it may be prudent to evaluate the status of global democracies, threats to the democratic ethos, and the powers working silently but constantly to undermine it. The world as we know it today is mired in multiple conflicts, with the ones in Ukraine, Gaza, and Syria as the three prominent ones. There are several smaller armed conflicts ongoing in Sudan, Myanmar, the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, and others that dont get spoken about because they have less geopolitical impact than the three larger ones. Advertisement Over fifty elections have taken place in 2024 alone where most incumbent regimes have been defeated and a new government has been formed. In several countries, regimes have been changed by means of public protests fuelled by the political opposition. However, if we take a microscopic look at some of the crucial regime changes around the world that have taken place in 2024, it appears that not all of these have been organic. Many foreign powers, particularly the western ones, seem to be at play in orchestrating situations that lead to an escalation of conflict between the masses and authorities, which eventually leads to a change in the power structure of a nation. Let us consider individual instancesthe democratic backsliding of Ukraine is extremely worrisome. Billions of dollars have been pumped into Ukraine to fight the war against Russia by the West. In an interview last year, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that elections due in 2024 would not be held in Ukraine. The media control, refusal to hold elections, and no significant win against Russian advancement seem to have damaged his ratings, and his government may have been voted out if elections were held when they were originally due. The West, which is currently heavily funding Ukraine, seems to ignore this severe democratic regress because currently, the Ukrainian land seems to be the battleground for them to fight the proxy war with Russia. Moving on to other Eastern European states, there seems to be great tumult ongoing in most Baltic areas. Three weeks ago, the Romanian Court annulled the results of a presidential election in which a NATO-sceptic candidate, Calin Georgescu, emerged victorious. A lot seemed to be at stake hereonly recently had NATO announced pumping in 2.7 billion dollars to create the Mihail Kogalniceanu airbase, which would eventually turn out to be NATOs biggest base in Europe on the Black Sea, which Georgescu had avowed to pause, cut aid to Ukraine, and limit Romanias collaboration with NATO. The annulment of a presidential election seems suspicious at best, with indicators of foreign interference in Romanias democratic and judicial processes. In another European nation bordering RussiaGeorgia, the sitting pro-West president refused to step down and vacate office despite her six-year term having ended. She lost to the firebrand leader Mikheil Kavelashvili, who appears to have won with the support of the governing pro-Russian Georgian Dream Party. The country erupted into protests, amidst which the new president had to be sworn in. In yet another Eastern European country, Serbia, protests have erupted on the streets against the sitting government led by Aleksandar Vucic, who seems to have taken a softer stance on Russia and a harder one on NATO. The fact that three nations of Eastern Europe seem to be going through political instability suggests that this is not simply a coincidence but more of a grand plan of the West to orchestrate turmoil in border nations led by pro-Russian leaders. Advertisement In Indias neighbourhood, we have witnessed the Wests unanimous support for the new government in Bangladesh, which has taken down Sheikh Hasinas democratically elected government by supporting protests. This new government in Bangladesh is holding on to power, curbing media freedom, and carrying out ethnic cleansing of Hindus, without being voted in by the people of the country. In the Middle East as well, we have seen the Assad regime recently displaced by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and other terror-support groups, which seem to enjoy the Wests blessings, with clear disregard for democratic values. Afghanistan as well continues to be run by the Taliban, for whom the West left abandoned weapons when they fled after decades of armed intervention in the country. Advertisement The United States Joe Biden administration pulled every string possible to indict Donald Trump in the countrys courts before the 2024 presidential elections, so as to stop him from running as the Republican nominee. Trump also survived two assassination attempts during his campaign trail, which were severely downplayed by the mainstream media of the country. The world witnessed how the US mainstream media continued to cover up President Bidens health and capabilities to hold office, despite clear deterioration. Certainly, these arent actions acceptable in a robust democracy, and yet the US continues to brand itself as the upholder of global democracy. Advertisement What is striking is that the West seems to have orchestrated regime change operations under the garb of protection of democracy, when, in fact, their intervention eventually faded away the democratic ethos of nations, leading to the instillation of a puppet regime that remains at the behest of Western funds and other forms of assistance provided. So long as the puppet regimes dance to the tunes of the Western corridors of power, their governments are safe, and the global media narratives built by the Western ecosystem are laudatory and supportive of their actions. The Democratic rating indices often used by the West in ranking democracies that their own power centres control also continue to place puppet regime-led governments in prime spots, adding to the laudatory narrative-building of the respective government being democratic and fair. When the Western rating indices begin to downgrade nations on their democratic index, it may be taken as a clear indication that the powers-to-be will most certainly intervene to uphold democracy by pumping in funds to lead protests against the elected governments, by raising concerns in the global mainstream media on the deteriorating state of democracy in those nations, and essentially build a narrative that can be exploited to directly intervene in the electoral processes of those nations. Advertisement At the same time, in 2024 we witnessed examples in the East where democracy has been in action and held its ground over and over. In South Korea, we saw the martial law saga having failed due to the courts, parliament, and the media taking a strong stance against President Yoon Suk Yeols decision. In India we witnessed the return of the Narendra Modi government for the third term, albeit a coalition one with reduced seats for the ruling BJP, after a democratic electoral process. As we enter the new year, the hope is that more parts of the world will learn to see through the lies propagated under the protecting democracy agenda to explain the intervention of the West in other countries electoral processes. This will certainly lead to more resistance from the people to foreign intervention, increasing favour and trust for genuine leaders in nations around the world. The writer is an author and political communications expert. She has written four best-selling books. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. How does Pakistan confront an Afghan regime whose vision of Islam mirrors its own? read more For decades, Pakistan has played a duplicitous game, straddling the line between statecraft and subterfuge. It cultivated militants as instruments of foreign policy while posturing as a responsible partner in the war on terror. The act is unraveling. Recent clashes with the Taliban government in Kabul have laid bare Islamabads vulnerabilities, forcing Pakistan to confront the consequences of nurturing the very forces now threatening its stability. The latest spark in this smouldering rivalry came in early December, when Pakistani jets struck targets in Afghanistans Kunar and Khost provinces. Islamabad claimed the strikes hit Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts. The result, however, was a grim tally of Afghan civilians. The Talibans response was swift but calibrated. It struck Pakistani military posts along the border, avoiding civilian casualties but delivering a blow to the armys pride. The message was clearPakistans habit of operating across the Durand Line with impunity is no longer tolerated. Advertisement The Border that Never Was At the heart of the discord lies the Durand Line, a legacy of British colonial cartography drawn in 1893. Afghanistan has never recognised this frontier, viewing it as an artificial gash through Pashtun tribal lands. The Taliban, like their predecessors, dismiss the border as illegitimate, treating it as a line drawn on someone elses map. Pakistan, for its part, has long insisted otherwise. Yet maps matter little to the Pashtun tribes straddling both sides, bound by blood, trade, and tradition. Islamabads attempts to enforce the Durand Line through fences and military patrols have been met with disdain and, more recently, gunfire. For Afghanistan, this is a matter of national identity. For Pakistan, it is a more immediate concerna porous border offering sanctuary, from which they can launch attacks into its restive and dirt-poor northwest. The Gathering Storm Pakistans real problem is not Kabuls rhetoric but the launchpads for TTP. These sanctuaries offer militants the means to sow chaos in Pakistans tribal belt, where resentment already simmers. Islamabad faces an unenviable choice. A full-scale confrontation with the Taliban risks stoking a broader Pashtun insurgency, while limited strikes invite further retaliation. Pakistans military might be well-drilled for conventional warfare, but it has little appetite for another grinding insurgency, particularly when one is already bleeding resources in Balochistan. More troubling for Pakistan is its deteriorating intelligence network across the Afghan border. Lacking reliable eyes and ears, Islamabad resorts to the blunt tool of airstrikeseffective at stoking nationalist fervour but disastrous for long-term strategy. Pashtun Ties and the Religious Thorn A deeper, more existential threat looms in the form of growing Pashtun solidarity. The Talibans resurgence has rekindled cross-border ethnic unity, challenging Pakistans authority in its Pashtun-majority Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pashtun nationalism is a force Islamabad can ill afford to provoke. Advertisement Worse still is the ideological conundrum. Since the days of Zia-ul-Haq, Pakistan has cultivated Islamist hardliners, pivoting toward Wahhabism to secure domestic control and regional leverage. Yet the Talibans demand for sharia governance exposes Islamabads hypocrisy. How does Pakistan, a nation that championed sharia under Zia, confront an Afghan regime whose vision of Islam mirrors its own? Kabuls insistence on Islamic rule poses an unsettling question for Pakistans leadershiphow do you fight an enemy that reflects your states ideological trajectory? Strategic Depth No Longer Pakistans old doctrine of strategic depththe notion that Afghanistan provides a buffer against Indiais fading into irrelevance. The Talibans defiance signals that Pakistans long-standing influence over Kabul has waned. Adding to Islamabads headaches, tensions with Iran are rising along Pakistans western flank, while the eastern border with India remains volatile. Strategic depth has given way to encirclement. Advertisement Finally, Islamabad cannot credibly decry Afghan-based terror while continuing to shelter Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed operatives within its own borders. This contradiction chips away at Pakistans moral standing abroad and exposes its diminishing leverage at home. A Thousand Cuts, No Easy Cure Pakistan finds itself trapped, not by a single decisive blow, but by the relentless grind of insurgency, ethnic tension, and cross-border attacksa death by a thousand cuts. The writer is a senior journalist with expertise in defence. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The answer may lie in the aesthetics of victimhood. It is simply not fashionable enough to champion the cause of the Hindus read more Why isnt the plight of Hindus important enough for Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities to show solidarity and support for? The way they do for Rafah, Gaza? Is the life of the Hindu in Bangladesh any less substantial than the lives of Muslims in Gaza? The answer, in no small measure, lies in the aesthetics of victimhood. It comprises a conceptual framework that contextualises why victims have a pecking order worldwide and why the Hindus rank very poorly on the list. Advertisement It is imperative, therefore, to identify the markers of a victim worth supporting and standing up for and the social dynamics that buttress itthe semiotics of victimhood celebrated in liberal public spaces. What actually narrativises and defines victimhood emerges as an influential image that has pervaded public discourseits aesthetics, history, and politics. The battle around the identification of who is a victim and, therefore, as a corollary, who is not remains pervasive across the liberal democratic sphere. In truth, it is all about positioning. Historically, imagining and positioning oneself as a victim is rooted in debates around colonialism, global migration, patriarchy, economic disparity, and precarity. As such, the Jewish, African, Armenian, and Irish diasporas are viewed as the original victim diasporas wherein their displacement and outmigration owed themselves to persecution, violence, and genocide. The working class under capitalism and women under patriarchy have made claims to injury as a result of economic and political structures that subordinate and disenfranchise social groups. So, where do the Hindus stand in this schemata? The Hindu diaspora across the world is primarily perceived as a largely upwardly mobile, economically and financially well-to-do, and assimilative, model minority diasporic group. Close to 7.6 million Hindus born in India live outside the country in various diasporic pockets. Add to this the foreign-born Hindus, and you arrive at a pretty significant figure. The United States has the most Hindu immigrants outside of South Asia, with an estimated 1.3 million first-generation Hindus. Other countries that receive Hindu migrants include the United Kingdom, Canada, and the Arab states of the Persian Gulf. Most Hindu immigrants in the US are gentrified middle-to-upper-middle-class folks, comprising business holders and white-collar workers, with the IT, banking, and health sectors being major concentrations. American Hindus have the highest rates of educational attainment and the highest household income among all religious communities and the lowest divorce rates. The incoming Trump administration will have the highest number of Hindus on it, with Tulsi Gabbard (proposed Director of National Intelligence), Sriram Kishnan (Senior White House Advisor on Artificial Intelligence), Kash Patel (proposed Director of the FBI), Vivek Ramaswamy (proposed head of the Department of Government Efficiency), and Jay Bhattacharya (proposed director of the NIH) being the most prominent names. While Usha Chilukuri Vance, wife of Vice President-elect JD Vance, is a practicing Hindu with roots in Andhra Pradesh, some top-of-the-line global conglomerates are led by Hindus, America-born or otherwise. Advertisement While the levels and phases of Hindu gentrification remain uneven across continents, the general trend assumes an upward trajectory, both in terms of economic status and social location. For instance, the Sarnami Hindustanis in the Netherlands, made up mainly of Hindus, remain one of the most successful minority diasporic communities in the country, with members occupying and having occupied significant positions on the political and public landscape. And mind you, the community emerged from the indentured labour migration of their ancestors on slave ships to plantation colonies in the Caribbean. The global perception of Hindus in India (and Nepal) has ranged from simple folks who delight in their penury to India being the spiritual destination of on-the-edge or over-the-line Hollywood and tech celebrities. None of this, however, has done any good for Hindu victims of persecution and genocide across the world, the most recent and unfolding instance being the plight of the minorities in Bangladesh. The left-liberal academic discourse is as much responsible, and not in any small degree or form, for playing a debilitating role in building the global chimaera of dominance against the Hindus by foisting one element of Hindu social organisation as a hallmark of their culpabilitycaste. The caste narrative has gained significant ground, positing upper caste Hindus as a community of privilege and therefore automatic candidates for reverse persecution. And those with privilege and a socially dominant position cannot be victims, right? Advertisement Of course, no consideration is lent to the fact that on an overwhelming number of occasions, the perpetrators of genocidal violence do not perceive Hindus in terms of caste but routinely refer to the community as kaafirs or infidels. Not a word more, not a word less. Look at Bangladesh as an example. Would the post-adolescent jihadi dolts and Jamaat lunatics spewing venom against the Hindus (and India) in video after video replete on social media ever refer to Dalit Hindus or upper-caste Hindus? Needless to say, Chinmaya Krishna Prabhu was not arrested and is being tortured in custody because he is a Brahmin monk but just because he is a Hindu religious leader who dared to speak up. The lungi-clad hordes carrying swords roaming the streets of Dhaka looking for Hindus to butcher will certainly not differentiate between a caste Hindu and a Dalit! Advertisement The disappointing lack of response from the global community of professional protestors and bleeding-heart advocates of human rights for the Hindus in Bangladesh, therefore, is part of a grand design of acceptabilityeven celebrationof certain kinds of victimhood, whereas the rest are relegated to the margins or even wantonly ignored. While the kaffiyeh-wearing promoters of Free Palestine on American university campuses have no time to spare for the ongoing bloodshed in Bangladesh, senatorial and congressional committees routinely dont deem it fashionable enough to even pay lip service to violence against Hindus. While Bollywood celebrities of all huesnotwithstanding their levels of general, social, or global awareness or the lack of itwere supremely concerned about the massacre in Rafah, directing all eyes on the refugee settlement, no one seems to give a rats ear for the suffering Hindus in Bangladesh. The answer may lie in the aesthetics of victimhood. It is simply not fashionable enough to champion the cause of the Hindus. Advertisement Roshni Sengupta is a professor of politics and media at IILM University Gurugram. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The deal hinges on South Africa easing regulations that currently require foreign companies to be at least 30 per cent black-owned to operate legally. In return, Musks Tesla could establish a battery production facility in the nation, marking a significant investment in its energy sector read more Following Donald Trumps recent election victory, Musk has taken on an increasingly prominent role in governmental affairs, including chairing a US government spending audit committee. Image Credit: Reuters Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is reportedly in discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa over a potential agreement that could bring Starlink satellite internet services to the country. The deal hinges on South Africa easing regulations that currently require foreign companies to be at least 30 per cent black-owned to operate legally. In return, Musks Tesla could establish a battery production facility in the nation, marking a significant investment in its energy and technology sectors. Advertisement The discussions come as Musk, who was born in South Africa, leverages his growing influence on the global stage. The proposed agreement offers a mutually beneficial exchange: regulatory flexibility for Starlinks entry in exchange for local job creation and investment from Tesla. Regulatory challenges and potential workarounds South Africas current laws mandate equity sharing with Black-owned local partners, a policy aimed at addressing historical inequalities. Musk has reportedly requested that these requirements be loosened or removed to allow SpaceX to operate Starlink legally in the country. South African officials are exploring alternatives, such as requiring foreign companies to commit to local investment and job creation as a way to balance the policys objectives with Musks proposals. This approach could serve as a workaround that aligns with the countrys goals while enabling Starlinks entry. Starlink, known for delivering high-speed internet via satellite, has already established a presence in other African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Botswana. Expanding to South Africa would solidify its footprint on the continent and enhance connectivity in underserved areas. Ramaphosas vision for broader investments For President Ramaphosa, the deal isnt just about internet access its also a chance to attract significant investment from Musks other ventures. Teslas involvement in battery production could boost South Africas renewable energy ambitions and create much-needed jobs. Ramaphosas interest mirrors similar pitches made to Musk by other countries. Indonesia, for example, previously sought to pair Starlink services with Teslas electric vehicle battery production. While Musk ultimately turned down Indonesias proposal, citing logistical challenges, the country remains eager to collaborate on other projects with his companies. Musks global influence and strategic expansion These negotiations highlight Musks growing role on the geopolitical stage. Following Donald Trumps recent election victory, Musk has taken on an increasingly prominent role in governmental affairs, including chairing a US government spending audit committee. His companies, particularly SpaceX and Starlink, have also become central to global discussions on technology, defence, and connectivity. Starlinks rapid expansion now operational in over 100 countries has seen it play a pivotal role in conflict zones like Ukraine and Yemen, demonstrating its strategic importance. However, regulatory hurdles in new markets remain a consistent challenge. If the South Africa deal comes to fruition, it could serve as a model for how governments and tech giants negotiate agreements that balance national policies with the need for global innovation. For Musk, it represents another opportunity to deepen his influence while expanding his technological empire. Advertisement Some MAGA-aligned figures claiming their verification badges vanished after they criticised Elon Musks views on the matter. What started as a policy discussion about foreign skilled workers has now escalated into accusations of censorship read more Musks X, once celebrated as a haven for free speech, now finds itself in the crosshairs of its own supporters. Image Credit: Reuters A brewing debate about H-1B visas has taken a messy turn on X (formerly Twitter), with some MAGA-aligned figures claiming their verification badges vanished after they criticised Elon Musks views on the matter. What started as a policy discussion about foreign skilled workers has now escalated into accusations of censorship, stirring up tensions within Trumps base. The drama kicked off when Musk defended H-1B visas, arguing that America needs more highly skilled workers. This didnt sit well with some conservatives, who see the programme as a threat to American jobs. Vocal critics like Laura Loomer, Gavin Wax, and Owen Shroyer claim their verification badges were yanked shortly after they called out Musk and his ally, Vivek Ramaswamy, for their stance on immigration. Advertisement Claims of Censorship Loomer didnt hold back, saying her account was being fully censored because she criticised Musks support for H-1B visas. She called it anti-American behaviour from tech oligarchs. Wax and Shroyer chimed in with similar complaints, suggesting their badges were removed as punishment for speaking out. While the timing is interesting, its hard to prove if their accounts were intentionally targeted. Still, the claims tap into a familiar narrative among conservatives who believe social media platforms stifle their voices. Musks X, once celebrated as a haven for free speech, now finds itself in the crosshairs of its own supporters. Musks Take on Moderation Musk hasnt directly addressed these accusations, but he has been vocal about Xs moderation policies. Recently, he explained that the platforms algorithm reduces the reach of accounts that get more blocks or mutes than likes. He also warned that accounts engaging in spammy behaviour could be flagged as such. This isnt Musks first brush with controversy over moderation. In the past, hes removed verification badges from organisations like The New York Times and even suspended journalists for what he described as policy violations. For someone who champions free speech, Musks approach to moderation has raised eyebrows. A divide over H-1B Visas The rift really widened over Musks defence of H-1B visas. He argued theyre crucial for bringing in talented engineers, but not everyone agrees. Loomers criticisms quickly spiralled into inflammatory remarks about Indian culture, further fanning the flames. While some MAGA figures have backed her, Musk brushed off her comments as attention-seeking noise. This whole saga underscores the tricky balance Musk is trying to strike on X. It also highlights cracks within Trumps base, as debates over immigration and tech reveal deeper divisions. Whether the claims about censorship hold up or not, this latest spat shows just how messy the intersection of politics and social media can get. Volkswagens breach saw the movement data and contact information, with precise location details of 460,000 vehicles from Volkswagen, Audi, and Seat made available online for months read more While the breach exposed critical data like location and contact information, Volkswagen assured that passwords and payment details were not affected. Image Credit: Reuters Volkswagen has found itself at the centre of a massive data breach, with a leak from its software subsidiary Cariad leaving sensitive information for 800,000 electric vehicle owners exposed. The breach, first reported by German outlet Spiegel Netzwelt, included movement data and contact information, with precise location details of 460,000 vehicles from Volkswagen, Audi, and Seat made available online for months. The exposed data was stored on Amazons cloud platform and discovered by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC), a good-faith hacking group. The CCC identified the vulnerability on 26 November and promptly informed Volkswagen. According to the company, the issue has since been resolved, ensuring that the information is no longer accessible. Advertisement Sensitive information, but no malicious access While the breach exposed critical data like location and contact information, Volkswagen assured that passwords and payment details were not affected. The company explained that the breach only impacted vehicles registered for online services and described the data as pseudonymized. This means it could not directly identify specific customers unless several complex security barriers were bypassed. Volkswagen noted that accessing the data required a highly technical, multi-step process, which CCC hackers only managed to execute through significant expertise and effort. As a result, the company believes customers are not at immediate risk of their data being exploited by malicious actors. Despite this, the incident highlights growing concerns over data vulnerabilities as modern vehicles become increasingly connected. Investigation underway, no immediate risks Volkswagen has launched a formal investigation into the breach to determine how such a significant oversight occurred and to decide on further preventative measures. In its statement to the German press agency DPA, the company assured that it is taking the matter seriously and working to ensure such issues are not repeated. The CCCs intervention ensured that no bad actors accessed the data during the time it was exposed, providing some reassurance to affected customers. However, the incident raises broader concerns about the security of connected vehicles and the potential risks posed by online systems in modern cars. A reminder of digital risks in connected cars This leak serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in internet-connected vehicles. It comes just a year after a viral TikTok challenge showed how Hyundai vehicles could be easily hacked, leading to accidents and even fatalities. As automakers embrace online features to enhance user experiences, ensuring robust security measures becomes more critical than ever. Volkswagens breach may not have resulted in immediate harm, but it underscores the importance of airtight security protocols to protect customer data in an increasingly digital world. As the investigation continues, affected EV owners will likely be keeping a close eye on how Volkswagen addresses this serious oversight. From a retired KGB agent in 1990 to becoming the Acting President of Russia in 1999, Vladimir Putins rise was swift with few parallels in modern history. As his reign enters 26th year, he stands much more powerful than Russias tsars or Soviet dictators the likes of Stalin. read more Vladimir Putin walks to take his oath as Russian president during an inauguration ceremony in the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, May 7, 2024.- AP Vladimir Putin became the Acting President of Russia on December 31, 1999. Boris Yeltsin, the then-President of Russia, resigned on the New Years Eve after eight years of being in office. The presidency passed to his Putin, who was the Prime Minister of Russia at the time. The moment capped the meteoric rise of Putin in Russias politics he began his career just six years back in 1993. Months later, Putin was elected to a full term as the President of Russia in March 2000. Since then, he has been the leader of Russia and has transformed not just his nation but Europe and global politics. While he faced challenges in the beginning and political instability, Putin soon firmed up his rule and systematically rooted out all dissent, political opposition, and critical activism in the coming years. Advertisement By the time his second term ended in 2008, Putin was on his way establish one-man rule in Russia. Even though Putin is now synonymous with Russia and has more power than Russian tsars or Soviet dictators before him, he had a very unconventional start. Unlike his ally Xi Jinping, the President-for-Life of China, Putin was neither a princeling nor trained for decades in politics. Instead, he was an agent in Russias feared secret service KGB, which is now known as FSB. Russia entered new century & new millennium with new leader Yeltsins resignation and anointment of Putin as the successor was as symbolic as it was historic. Russia entered the new year, new century, and new millennium with a new leader. The transition from Yeltsin to Putin was also a generational shift in Russian politics. Putin was 21 years younger than Yeltsin. Yelstin had met Putin along with Patriarch Alexy II of Russian Orthodox Church before announcing the resignation on television. Acknowledging the moments gravity, Yeltsin said in a broadcast that shocked Russia and the world that as Russians would see a magical date on our calendars, the year 2000, a new century, a new millennium in a few hours, they would also see a new leader. Announcing his resignation, Yeltsin said he came to the decision to leave office on the last day of the departing century after he had pondered long and painfully. Russia should enter the new millennium with new politicians, new faces, new people who are intelligent, strong and energetic, while we, those who have been in power for many years, must leave, said Yeltsin. Advertisement Rejecting the charge that he was leaving over poor health, Yeltsin said that there were many reasons for his departure, but he indicated the main reason was to make way for a new generation of leaders. I am leaving now. I have done everything I could. I am not leaving for health reasons, but for a multitude of reasons. A new generation is taking my place, a generation of people who can do more and better, said Yeltsin. The then-President of Russia Boris Yeltsin with Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia and the then-Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. (Photo: Kremlin) Naming Putin as the acting head of state until elections in the upcoming year, Yeltsin called him a strong leader with whom the nation had great hopes. Advertisement I must not stand in the way of that logical progression. Why cling to power for six more months when the country has a strong leader who can be its president, a man on whom nearly all Russians are pinning their hopes for the future? Why stand in his way? Why wait another half year? That is not for me, said Yeltsin. As he departed, Yeltsins final words as president to Putin were: Take care of Russia. Putins journey from KGB to Russias leader Putin wanted to join the Soviet secret service KGB from boyhood. He was inspired by the film The Sword and the Shield (1968). In 1968, Putin went to the local KGB office and asked for a job at the age of 16. He was asked to return after studying law. He returned to apply six years later after completing an undergraduate degree in law at Leningrad State University and was accepted. Advertisement Starting in 1975, Putin would serve in the KGB till 1990 when he would resign at the rank of lieutenant colonel. While details about his KGB service are scarce, there are some widely known details. He is known to have worked in counter-intelligence activities and some accounts say he was also involved in the surveillance of Soviet dissidents. When the Fall of Berlin Wall in 1989, Putin was stationed in Dresden in East Germany. As per widely reported accounts, Putin watched from the KGB headquarters in Dresden as people stormed the headquarters of Stasi, the East Germanys secret police. He warned off the mob as it approached the KGB facility. Later, when he requested tank squad from help, he was informed that there would be no intervention without Moscows authorisation which would never come. Advertisement Russian President Vladimir Putins photo in uniform from the time he served in the secret service KGB. (Photo: Kremlin) Putin returned to Russia after seeking retirement in 1990 just as Soviet Union was disintegrating. He entered politics at St. Petersburg. Over the next decade, Putin would demonstrate political acumen while luck would also favour him as it did in St. Petersburg. When he returned to Russia, the Mayor of St. Petersburg was Anatoly Sobchak, one of his teachers at university. Putin joined him as an adviser and worked his way to become Deputy Mayor in 1994. Two years later, he moved to Moscow. In 1996, Putin joined the presidential administration as a deputy to Pavel Borodin, the Kremlins chief administrator. His rise at Kremling was rapid much more rapid than at St. Petersburg. In 1998, Putin appointed him as the head of FSB, the successor agency of KGB that he was part of for 15 years. Soon, he was elevated to be the Secretary of the Security Council. Then, in August 1999, Yeltsin appointed Putin as the Prime Minister of Russia. Months later, on the New Years Eve, he became the Acting President of Russia. Putin starts as a strongman amid war Even though he was practically unknown, Putin soon organised a military campaign against separatists in the autonomous province of Chechnya that won him public approval even before he became the acting president. In a midnight address after becoming acting president, Putin said set the tone for his reign. Any attempt to exceed the limits of law and the Russian constitution will be decisively crushed, said Putin. The situation in Chechnya would continue to prop troubles in initial years as terrorist attacks in the forms of bombings and hostage-taking continued. However, Putin retained popular support as Russians sought economic stability above all and the economy continued to perform well. A key driver of his popularity was his harsh rhetoric and scorched earth policy. At one point, Putin said he would wipe out whom he called enemy even in the toilet. In the Chechnya campaign, he ordered a full-scale land invasion that left the capital Grozny devastated, leading to the United Nations (UN) to call Grozny the most destroyed place on Earth. Even after the Russian military bulldozed through the province to acquire its control, an insurgency went on for nearly a decade more until it largely ebbed. Even as several thousands were killed and cities destroyed, Putin emerged as a staunch Russian nationalist strongman. Stronger than tsars, more influential than Soviet rulers Putin transformed Russia from a multi-party electoral polity to a one-man county. To firm up his position, Putin reshaped the Russian polity. Politically, he presided over a campaign to root out all opponents over the next decade. He either jailed or exiled oligarchs whom he did not like. He also propped new oligarchs and warlords. He renationalised the economy to the extent that the Russian state at one point controlled 70 per cent of the economy. Her also curtailed the power of regional governors and instituted top-down centralised governance. Putin also cracked down on media freedoms. He either shut down outlets or forced them to leave the country. When Putin reached the constitutional limit of two consecutive presidential terms, he became the prime minister in 2008 and a loyalist, Dmitry Medvedev, became the president. In 2012, Putin returned as president for a six-year term after the parliament, which he had by then shaped into a body of yes-men, extended the four-year term. He was re-elected in 2018. In 2020, he got the constitution amended allowing him to run for two-more terms, making way for him to be Russias leader till 2036. By then, Putin had reshaped Russia into his image and eliminated all critics and opposition leaders. Those who did not surrender or go into exile were killed. Boris Nemtsov, an opposition leader who led protests against Putin in 2011, was shot dead in 2015. Alexei Navalny, the most notable critic of Putin, was attacked with a nerve agent in 2020 while he was incarcerated as part of crackdown on the last remnants of political opposition. He was airlifted to Germany for treatment and survived. He was arrested on his return in 2021 and died in jail earlier this year. The death as well as the previous failed nerve agent poisoning are widely believed to be staged at the behest of Putin. By 2020, Putins control of Russia was absolute. He had also flexed his muscles in Europe, invading Giorgia in 2008 and invading Ukraine in 2014 and annexing the province of Crimea in 2014. He would also go on to turn Belarus into a satellite state. Driven by a desire to restore the glory of Soviet Union, Putin made it clear that he considered eastern Europe as his sphere of influence. As Ukraine did not become a satellite state like Belarus and embraced the West as Russia continued subversive activities, Putin ordered the invasion of the nation in February 2022. The intention was to capture Kyiv, kill President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and establish a puppet regime. By invading Ukraine, Putin mounted the biggest war in Europe since the World War II and plunged Europe in the biggest security crisis since World War II. As Putin enters the 26th year as Russias leader, he stands more powerful than Russias autocratic tsars or Soviet dictators the likes of Stalin ever were. As a friendly figure, Donald Trump, is set to be the President of United States, he is looking forward to wrapping the war on Ukraine in his favour with Trumps support. HAWANE Hawane Dam has water that can supply Mbabane and Ezulwini residents for not more than 35 days. This was disclosed by Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC) Director Technical Bongani Mdluli, during an assessment exercise, that was conducted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, yesterday. The assessment exercise which was led by Acting Principal Secretary Sicelo Nxumalo was conducted in the main dams, which are Luphohlo, Hawane and Maguga. The exercise was prompted by the decrease in water levels in these dams among others. These dams are crucial in electricity generation, water supply and irrigation. The aim of the assessment was to get first-hand information on the situation, which will enable the ministry to draw up mitigation plans from an informed position. Agencies During the tour, the ministry was with representatives from its parastatals and agencies that included Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC), EWSC and the Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA). During the delegations visit to Hawane Dam, which supplies water to areas in Mbabane and surroundings, as well as Ezulwini, a serious decline in water levels was noted. According to the director, the dam has a 37 per cent capacity, which he said is low. Testament to the low levels, some parts of the dam that usually flow with water were dry. These days, we use rivers downstream to supply water to some areas. The water levels range around 43 per cent. Before the rains that were experienced these past days, the water levels were at 37 per cent capacity of the dam, but we are hopeful that more rains will come and Mbabane and Ezulwini residents will have water, he said. Mdluli added that the current water stored in the dam could supply these areas for no more than 35 days, if the country will not receive rains in the coming months. He added that the 35 days is just uninterrupted water supply. He said, however, they are hopeful that more rains will come, which will enable the dam to collect more water to feed the residents. Noteworthy, the EWSC had been on an assignment to look for alternative water sources for Mbabane, Ezulwini and surrounding areas, after the country experienced a serious drought in 2015/2016. The parastatal was also tasked with desilting the dam. During the tour, it was mentioned that despite the fact that the high volumes of silt in the dam were also a contributing factor to the reduced capacity over the years, the desilting exercise did not take place. Additionally, Mdluli stated that the corporation had been looking at alternative water sources. The director stated that there is a water treatment plant under construction at Luphohlo Dam. At the completion of the plant, Mbabane and Ezulwini residents will be free from water blues. The delegation also went to Maguga Dam, which is one of the biggest dams in Eswatini. The dam supplies water to communities downstream, used to generate hydropower electricity, as well as for irrigation of sugarcane fields, among other crops, for commercial agriculture. Levels The water levels in this dam were also evidently low. The dam is 150 metres deep, but water levels were slightly above 70 metres. KOBWA Operations Director Sakhiwe Nkomo shared that the dam is shared by Eswatini, Mozambique and South Africa. Eswatini has an allocation of 257 million cubic metres per year, South Africa has 303 million, he said. Nkomo shared that the dam is above 50 per cent and they are hopeful that more rains will come and increase the capacity. He added that should the worst case scenario occur, where the country may not receive rains for prolonged periods, the current water capacity in the dam could only supply the residents and irrigate fields for a year and a half.Speaking during the tour, Nxumalo said, after visiting the three dams, it was encouraging that the country was not going to experience any water and electricity rationing due to the recent rains that made a difference in the dams. The acting PS noted that there was a possibility of there being water rationing and decline in electricity generation due to lower levels in dams. The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, along with the National Citizens Committee, another group led by the students, earlier said it would announce the proclamation of the July uprising on Tuesday. read more Bangladeshs interim government announced plans to draft the Proclamation of the July Uprising, a day after distancing itself from a similar declaration proposed by a student movement that played a key role in ousting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, said We hope within a few days the proclamation will be prepared with the participation and consensus of all and presented before the nation, Addressing the media Alam said the declaration would be based on the views of all participating students, political parties, and stakeholders, including the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to the ouster of Hasinas Awami League regime on August 5. Advertisement Alam said the government took the initiative to prepare the proposed charter to consolidate the peoples unity, anti-fascist spirit and a desire for state reform developed through the July uprising. The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, along with the National Citizens Committee, another group led by the students, earlier said it would announce the proclamation of the July uprising on Tuesday. However, after the governments announcement, the students platform hurriedly called an emergency meeting and told the media that they would stage a march for unity at the same venue and time. On Tuesday, they staged a massive march for unity rally in Dhaka, which was attended by thousands, mostly students, who travelled to Dhaka from different parts of the country to join the rally. They carried banners and chanted slogans like bury the Mujibist ideology, and Delhi or Dhaka, Dhaka, Dhaka alongside some Islamic slogans. The rally demanded a declaration of the Proclamation of July uprising by the interim government by January 15, 2025, and the rewriting of the 1972 Constitution by the next elected government. The students platform simultaneously asked the interim government to ensure trial and exemplary punishment of Hasina, now in India, and her accomplices. Advertisement We want to say, by January 15 (2025) the proclamation of our July uprising must be issued, Anti-Discrimination Students Movement convenor Hasnat Abdullah said. Sarjis Alam, chief organizer of the National Citizens Committee and a prominent leader of the movement, condemned the presence of murderers and terrorists roaming freely, calling on the interim government to ensure justice for the genocide. He also demanded the dismantling of syndicates controlling businesses and state machinery, the return of smuggled money, affordable prices for goods, and proper treatment for those injured during the uprising. Mahin Sarkar, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, criticized home affairs adviser Lt Gen (retired) Mohammad Jahangir for failing to bring justice to those responsible for the deaths of protesters and children during the uprising. Another leader from the movement emphasized that the fugitive murderer Hasina in India must be brought back to face justice, vowing that students would continue their protests until a new Bangladesh was built. Advertisement The rally followed a convention of Islami Chhatra Shibir, a student affiliate of the right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami, at Suhrawardy Udyan, where Sarjis Alam spoke. He acknowledged Shibirs role in supporting the student movement during the July-August uprising, describing them as comrades who provided advice and support in key moments. The constitution of 1972, which established independent Bangladesh, was framed by the elected representatives of the 1970 general elections under the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Despite this, Pakistans military junta under General Yahya Khan launched a brutal crackdown, leading to the Liberation War. Since the ousting of the regime on August 5, the Awami League has largely disappeared from the public sphere, with many of its leaders arrested or in hiding. Meanwhile, leaders of the opposition, notably from Khaleda Zias BNP, have sharply criticized any efforts to amend the constitution, with Mirza Abbas, a senior BNP member, emphasizing that it was crafted in 1972 at the cost of three million lives. Advertisement As your seniors, we feel disappointed when you (student movement leaders) say the constitution should be buried. If there is anything bad in the constitution, it can be amended, he told reporters. Abbas said, When you (student leaders) say things like this, it sounds fascist as fascists used to say, We will bury them, kill them, and cut them off. The students platform and different political groups, including BNP, often dub the ousted regime as fascist. In an exclusive interview with Bangla Daily, The Jugantor, BNPs secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, We observe some people are speaking in a different tone taunting 1971 (Liberation War). We cannot think of the existence of our country discarding 1971, Alamgir said, explaining a recent remark at a public rally. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. On December 30, the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel became the worlds longest expressway tunnel making travel through the Tianshan Mountains easier and improving connectivity in Xinjiang read more On December 30, China completed the construction of the worlds longest expressway tunnel, the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel, located in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region. Stretching 22.13 kilometres, the tunnel is designed to reduce travel time through the Tianshan Mountains, a significant geographical barrier. According to the South China Morning Post, once operational, it is expected to improve connectivity between northern and southern Xinjiang. Here are 10 key highlights of the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel: Advertisement 1. Completion of the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel: On December 30, China finished constructing the worlds longest expressway tunnel, located in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region. 2. Tunnel length and purpose: The 22.13 km Tianshan Shengli Tunnel will cut travel time through the Tianshan Mountains from three hours to approximately 20 minutes. 3. Regional impact: The tunnel will enhance connectivity between northern and southern Xinjiang boosting access to Eurasian countries as part of the Silk Road Economic Belt. 4. Part of the Urumqi-Yuli Expressway: The tunnel is a crucial segment of the 319.72-kilometre Urumqi-Yuli Expressway, which will reduce driving time between Urumqi and Yuli County from seven hours to just over three hours. The expressway is slated to open in 2025. 5. Construction challenges: Tunnelling began in April 2020 and faced numerous difficulties including high-altitude construction (over 3,000 metres) and complex geological conditions. 6. Ecological considerations: Construction near the Tianshan No. 1 Glacier and Urumqis water source required adherence to high ecological protection standards. 7. Technological breakthroughs: The project marked the first use of a tunnel boring machine for road construction in China shortening the typical construction time from 10 years to just over four years. 8. Design features: The tunnel has a dual-direction, four-lane design with a speed limit of 100 km/h, located in the remote Tianshan Mountains at over 3,000 metres above sea level. Advertisement 9. Worker challenges: Over 3,000 workers laboured in harsh, low-oxygen, high-altitude conditions overcoming geological challenges like rock bursts and collapses. 10. Completion timeline: Despite the severe conditions, the tunnel was completed in 52 monthsfaster than the usual 72 months required using conventional methods. Since Putins full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022, China has sought to present itself as a neutral party, unlike the United States and other Western nations read more Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed to promote world peace in a New Years message to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, state media reported on Tuesday. No matter how the international situation changes, China will remain steadfast in further comprehensively deepening reform and promoting world peace and development, Xi said, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Since Putins full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022, China has sought to present itself as a neutral party, unlike the United States and other Western nations. Advertisement But it remains a close political and economic partner of Russia, leading some NATO members to brand Beijing an enabler of the war, which Beijing has never condemned. According to CCTV, Xi told Putin: In the face of rapidly evolving changes not seen in a century and the turbulent international situation, China and Russia have consistently moved forward hand-in-hand along the correct path of non-alignment, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party. The two presidents share a strong personal bond, with Xi calling his Russian counterpart his best friend and Putin cherishing his reliable partner. Their relationship has been a constant despite a decade of growing friction with Western countries, exemplified by Russias war in Ukraine. Xi noted to Putin that 2024 marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, according to CCTV, representing a new important milestone in the relationship between the two countries. After three-quarters of a century of ups and downs, China-Russia relations have become increasingly mature and stable, Xi said, according to CCTV. Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi, has authorised the death sentence, which is set to be carried out within a month read more The Indian government has announced that it will provide all possible assistance to Nimisha and her family. News18 Malayalam Nimisha Priya, a 36-year-old Indian nurse from Kerala, has been condemned to death in Yemen for the murder of Yemeni native Talal Abdo Mahdi in 2017. Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi, has authorised the death sentence, which is set to be carried out within a month. Priya was found guilty of administering Talal with a sedative overdose, which caused his death. She had attempted to reclaim her passport, which Talal had been holding. Advertisement Priya was caught and condemned to death in 2018, while her coworker, a Yemeni national, received a life sentence. The Indian government has announced that it will provide all possible assistance to Priya and her family. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), stated that the government is aware of the sentence and is giving support. Our response to media queries regarding the case of Ms. Nimisha Priya:https://t.co/DlviLboqKG pic.twitter.com/tSgBlmitCy Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 31, 2024 Priyas family, especially her mother, Prema Kumari, has fought for her liberation. Prema had flown to Yemen to negotiate with the victims relatives and obtain a pardon, but her efforts were futile. Prema Kumari arrived in Sanaa, Yemens capital, earlier this year and has been residing there since to seek a death penalty waiver and negotiate blood money with the victims family. She received aid from the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, which is made up of NRI social professionals stationed in Yemen. Advertisement According to The New Indian Express, discussions with Priyas family came to a stop in September of this year when the Indian Embassys counsel wanted additional monies, some of which were donated by the Action Council. We worked tirelessly to save Nimisha Priyas life, but our efforts ended in vain. We managed to collect 40,000 dollars (around Rs 34,20,000), and were prepared to raise even more to save her. Along with the Action council, the chief minister, the leader of opposition, former union minister and various leaders across political lines joined hands in this effort," Nenmara MLA K Babu was quoted. Nimisha Priya met Talal Abdo Mahdi in 2014, and he pledged to help her open her own clinic since a partnership was necessary under Yemeni legislation. She established a clinic in 2015 with the assistance of Mahdi. Advertisement France carried out missile strikes last weekend in Syria, targeting Islamic State sites in the country, French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Tuesday read more French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu attends a joint press statement after talks about strengthening security and defence in Europe, at Ministry of Defence in Berlin, Germany, on November 25, 2024. Reuters File France conducted airstrikes against Islamic State sites in Syria last weekend, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on social media platform X. These were the first strikes in Syria since the downfall of Bashar al-Assad. Our armed forces remain engaged in battling terrorism in the Levant, Lecornu posted on X while on a New Year visit to French UN peacekeepers in Lebanon. On Sunday, French air assets carried out targeted strikes against Daesh on Syrian soil, he added, using the Arabic name for IS. Advertisement According to AFP, citing the defense ministry, Frances Rafale fighter jets and US-made Reaper drones dropped seven bombs on two military targets belonging to Daesh in central Syria. France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against IS since 2014 for Iraq and since 2015 for Syria. French troops involved in these operations are stationed in the region, including in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As the country undergoes significant changes following Bashar al-Assads unexpected downfall due to a rebel offensive led by a radical Sunni group, observers are concerned that this situation could allow IS to regain strength. The group has persisted in both Iraq and Syria, despite the collapse of its so-called caliphate from 2014 to 2019. In mid-December, Washington announced that it had increased the number of American troops combating jihadists in Syria to approximately 2,000. The US Central Command, responsible for the Middle East, stated its goal is to ensure that IS does not exploit the current situation to re-establish itself in central Syria. The French airstrike followed a similar military strike by the US in Syria, which the US said had killed two Islamic State operatives. With inputs from agencies A chaotic 2023-24 session was marked by conservative anger over Johnsons handling of spending negotiations, as fiscal hawks lined up to attack him on grounds that he ceded too much to Democrats and was soft on the deficit read more Just three days before the US House of Representatives chooses its next speaker, Republican Mike Johnson is in an increasingly nerve-racking fight to keep his gavel amid mutterings of rebellion on his right flank. President-elect Donald Trump endorsed Johnson on Monday but even that may not be enough for the 52-year-old Louisiana conservative to win over the lower chamber of Congress, where the razor-thin Republican majority can afford almost no dissent. A chaotic 2023-24 session was marked by conservative anger over Johnsons handling of spending negotiations, as fiscal hawks lined up to attack him on grounds that he ceded too much to Democrats and was soft on the deficit. Advertisement Johnson sought to project confidence in his job prospects on Monday, vowing to get to work on the incoming presidents priorities in the new term. Together, we will quickly deliver on your America First agenda and usher in the new golden age of America, he posted on X. The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Trumps looming presidential inauguration raises the stakes of Fridays vote, since the House can do nothing until its leader is decided including completing the certification of the 78-year-old Republicans victory, set for Monday. Assuming every member is present and voting on Friday and that Democrats all back their leader, Hakeem Jeffries Johnson can afford only one defection and still be reelected. But he already has one Republican no on the scoreboard, from Kentuckys Thomas Massie, while a handful of other conservative hardliners have been publicly open to a change at the top. Total Endorsement Massie criticized Trumps support of Johnson, accusing the speaker on X of having partnered with Democrats to send money to Ukraine, authorize spying on Americans, and blow the budget. Crucially, X owner Elon Musk an influential Trump advisor who has been seeking to corral Republicans in the House since being named as the president-elects efficiency czar replied to the post agreeing that Massie might be right. Advertisement Johnson was a virtual unknown to the wider public before becoming speaker but came to Trumps attention when he spearheaded efforts in Congress to overturn the 2020 election. Far from his partys first choice, the attorney and religious rights campaigner won the gavel in 2023 largely because he lacked the enemies on his own side that prompted the downfall of other Republicans. Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man, Trump posted on Truth Social on Monday, as he finally tipped his hand following days of silence. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. Advertisement The move risks further defeat for Trump, who was rebuffed by House Republicans earlier this month as he demanded a suspension of the countrys borrowing limit, which would essentially have given him a blank check for his time in office. Stupidest thing I understand what Mikes up against if a bad case of the flu comes through there, were in the minority, Tennessees Tim Burchett told CNN, without committing to supporting Johnson. I mean, thats the reality of Washington today, and he has some tough decisions. I think ultimately its going to be decided (by) who President Trump likes, because I believe that will weigh in heavily on the decision-making. Advertisement Johnson is already an old hand at leadership challenges, after Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene pushed a motion to vacate the speakers chair last May and he had to be rescued by Democrats. Jeffries has been clear that his magnanimity has it limits, however, telling MSNBC as lawmakers headed home for their Christmas break that no Democrats will save Johnson this time around. In Johnsons favor, no credible challengers have emerged and there is little appetite for a repeat of the chaos that attended leadership elections in the last Congress. Republican rebels brought down then-speaker Kevin McCarthy in 2023, leading to three weeks of party infighting that paralyzed Congress, before Johnson was elected. Advertisement New York Republican Mike Lawler told ABC News that McCarthys axing would go down as the single stupidest thing Ive ever seen in politics. China regards democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory. But Taiwans government rejects Beijings claims and says only its people can decide their future and Beijing ought to respect the choice of the Taiwanese people. read more Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a stern New Years message on Tuesday, asserting that no force can stop Chinas reunification with Taiwan. His remarks were seen as a direct warning to pro-independence movements both within Taiwan and among its international allies. Over the past year, Beijing has intensified military activities near Taiwan, with frequent incursions by warships and aircraft into the islands surrounding waters and airspace. Taiwanese officials have described these actions as an effort to normalize Chinas military presence in the region. Advertisement China views Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory, a claim firmly rejected by Taiwans democratically-elected government. Taipei insists that the islands future can only be determined by its 23 million residents and has repeatedly called on Beijing to respect their democratic choice. The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds, and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification, Xi said in a speech televised on Chinas state broadcaster CCTV. In his New Years speech last year, Xi said Chinas reunification with Taiwan is inevitable, and that people on both sides should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Tensions have remained high throughout the year in the sensitive Taiwan Strait, especially after Lai Ching-te, deemed a separatist by Beijing, became the islands latest president in May. Earlier this month, China staged a large massing of naval forces around Taiwan and in the East and South China Seas after Lai stopped over in Hawaii and the U.S. territory of Guam on a Pacific trip criticised by Beijing. China, which never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, conducted two rounds of war games around the island this year, saying they were warnings against separatist acts and vowed to take further actions if needed. Advertisement US arms sales to Taiwan, allowed by the Taiwan Relations Act, have also continued to strain Beijings ties with Washington. China has regularly warned the U.S. against any military ties with Taiwan, and slapped sanctions on military suppliers and their executives. With inputs from agencies. Israel has warned Yemens Iran-backed Houthis to halt their missile attacks, saying they risked the same miserable fate as Hamas, Hezbollah and Syrias Bashar al-Assad if they persist read more Israel has given a final warning to Yemens Iran-backed Houthi militants to halt their missile attacks or face miserable fate similar to Hamas, Hezbollah and Syrias Bashar al-Assad if they continue. Setting out its case for a full scale assault on Houthis, Israel at the United Nations Security Council, on Monday, claimed the Iranian-backed group now represents a well-armed terrorist army that threatens not just the regional economy but the entire global order. Advertisement Houthis are part of Irans war against peace Israeli ambassador to the UN Danny Danon had called for the UN security council meeting to discuss the recent escalation in Houthi attacks on Israel in which he said that the Houthis were nothing more than part of Irans war against peace." Danon further said that Houthis had an annual budget of $1.2 billion and came dangerously close to strangling the Suez canal by its attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen. Israels final warning to Houthis In his address at the UNSC, Danon also said that Israel would not tolerate further Houthi attacks. To the Houthis, perhaps you have not been paying attention to what has happened to the Middle East over the past year, he said. Well, allow me to remind you what has happened to Hamas, to Hezbollah, to Assad, to all those who have attempted to destroy us. Let this be your final warning. This is not a threat. It is a promise. You will share the same miserable fate, Danon added. Israel wont wait for world to react Let me make one thing absolutely clear; we have had enough. Israel will not stand by and wait for the world to react. We will defend our citizens," Danon said, adding that the Houthis were no longer a regional threat but a threat to the world order. Danon also warned Tehran that Israel has the ability to strike any target in West Asia, including in Iran and even said that Israel would not tolerate attacks by Iranian proxies. Houthis launched 300 attacks on Israel in 2024 Danon went on to say that millions of Israelis are waking up every night to the sound of sirens across the country, accusing the Houthis of launching 300 attacks on Israel this year. Houthis says, wont stop pounding Israel However, within hours the Israeli military announced that it had intercepted a missile fired from Yemen, prompting sirens to sound across the country. Head of the Houthis supreme revolutionary committee Mohamed Ali al-Houthi said the group would not end its attacks on Israel. The pounding of the entity (Israel) continues and the support to Gaza continues, Mohamed Ali said in a post on X moments after the Israeli military announced the missile interception. Advertisement Houthi leader, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, and the groups spokesperson, Yahya Qasim Saree, have also made it clear that as long as the war in Gaza continues, the Houthis will continue to attack shipping and Israel. Some Houthi activists claimed on social media that recent attacks on Jaffa are a prelude to an attack on Israeli nuclear sites. Designate Houthis as foreign terrorist organisation Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar, meanwhile, called for the Houthis to be designated as a foreign terrorist organisation. Last week, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Houthis that his country was just getting started following Israeli strikes on multiple Houthi-linked targets in Yemen, including Sanaa airport, ports on the countrys west coast and two power plants. The World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was about to board a plane at the airport when it came under attack by Israel. Advertisement Referring to the narrow escape of Tedros and his delegation, Danon said: We have no control over who is where. We have no intention to bomb to harm NGO or the UN, on the contrary, but if they are in areas where Houthis are, they should be careful because we will not sit idly by. With inputs from agencies. If it were not for the actions of the Chinese regime, the Covid-19 outbreak in Wuhan would have never turned into a global pandemic that killed millions, experts are increasingly reaching this conclusion. Chinas government stands charged with keeping the coronavirus genome hidden from the world, withholding human-to-human transmissibility of the virus, punishing doctors who spoke out, and misleading the world about the origin of the virus. read more Secondary school students gather in front of a screen displaying an image of Chinese President Xi Jinping, at the Memorial of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in Shanghai, China, March 10, 2023. File Image/Reuters Countries that are members of the World Health Organization (WHO) are required to notify the global body of events that may constitute a public health emergency of international concern within 24 hours, according to Article 6 of the International Health Regulations (IHR). Once the Article 6 notification has been issued, Article 7 kicks in which requires the concerned member-state to provide to WHO all relevant public health information. By December 27, 2019, the Chinese authorities had learnt that a new coronavirus was behind the outbreak of pneumonia in Wuhan city. By then, the genome of the newly found virus its genetic structure had been mapped. The Chinese authorities also knew that the virus was spreading from one person to another. Advertisement Lets understand the chronology Yet, it was only on December 31 that China notified the WHO about the outbreak in Wuhan the notification was essentially forced by whistleblowers. Even when the WHO was notified, the agency was told neither about genome nor about transmission. From the onset, it appears from the available information in the public domain that the Chinese regime had been violating international norms. The most likely explanation of the turn of events suggests that the actions of the Chinese regime turned a local outbreak into the worst global pandemic in living memory. It was only on January 5, 2020, that Zhang Yongzhen, a virologist at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center (SPHCC), uploaded the genome to a US-based database but inexplicably embargoed access till July. Two days later, he submitted a paper to Nature detailing the genome which he co-authored with Edward Holmes, a virologist at the University of Sydney, Australia. By January 10, Nature sent out the manuscript for peer review. Around the same time, prominent scientists like Jeremy Farrar who would go on to become WHOs Chief Scientist started criticising that papers were being submitted to journals even though the WHO was being kept in the dark. Two days later, under pressure, Zhang shared the genome with Holmes, who in turn uploaded it to a website run by a British scientist. This is how the world learnt about the genome of novel coronavirus nearly two weeks after it had been mapped. But it was not the end of Chinese deceit. Advertisement On January 14, the WHO told the world that there was no evidence of human-to-human transmission as it had been informed by Chinese authorities. It was only on January 20 that China acknowledged human-to-human transmission and lockdown orders were issued on January 24 more than a month after the outbreak began in Wuhan. Why it matters By January 20, as many as 5 million people travelled out of Wuhan countless of them carried the virus with them. Millions more travelled from China to the rest of the world. This was of course the time of Christmas and New Year holiday travel. By not telling the world of the severity of the outbreak and by hiding the fact that the virus was transmitted between persons, China turned a city outbreak into a global pandemic, says Jamie Metzl, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and a specialist on China who has previously served at the US Department of State and White House National Security Council. Advertisement In any other open country, such as the United States, the authorities would have taken the logical steps of alerting the world and sharing the genome at once and the novel coronavirus outbreak would have been little more than a kitchen fire, says Metzl. The Chinese government turned the equivalent of a stove fire into a kitchen fire, the kitchen fire into a city fire, and the city fire into ultimately a global inferno. In the critical first days and weeks, the Chinese government did everything wrong and everything possible for political purposes to prevent the kind of response that was so urgently needed. If not for the unique pathologies of the Chinese state, there almost certainly would not have been a pandemic, says Metzl. Advertisement But leak happened, information found a way Against all odds, information leaked at great personal cost Weeks after the outbreak began, on December 30, some Chinese doctors blew the whistle. They were quickly rounded up and the crackdown was swift. Around the same time, Chinese authorities ordered all patient samples to either be destroyed or transferred to designated institutions. Despite the swift Chinese crackdown, the whistleblowers did their job. On December 30, ProMed, an informal network formed in 1994 for the reporting of information related to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, sent out an alert regarding the viral outbreak in Wuhan. The whistleblowers paid a great personal cost one of them paid for the courage with his life. Dr Li Wenliang, one of the whistleblowers, died weeks later. While the official cause of death was Covid-19, you can never be sure of a totalitarian regimes word regarding a whistleblowers death. Advertisement After the whistle was blown Zhang, the virologist who shared the genome with Holmes, lost access to his lab and his research was essentially halted. Citizens discussing the outbreak and lockdowns were censored and punished. One well-known citizen journalist, Zhang Zhan, was jailed for four years for covering the pandemic on social media and YouTube. In February 2024, Zhang in a video said that authorities were imprisoning people in the name of pandemic prevention and that without the truth, everything is meaningless. In other videos, she showed a hospital overflowing with patients and a crematorium working past midnight. Its 12:40 am. The sound of the funeral homes crematorium. They work day and night, said Zhang in the video. A pro-democracy activist holds a placard with the picture of Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan, who was imprisoned by the Chinese regime, in Hong Kong on December 28, 2020. (Photo: AP) As such coverage ran against the narrative of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which was peddling a false normalcy on the back of repressive state machinery, Zhangs coverage did not continue for long. As happens in dictatorships often, she disappeared out of the blue in May. In her last video shortly before her disappearance, Zhang captured the tragedy of over a billion people in the grips of tyranny for decades. The governments way of managing this city has just been intimidation and threats. This is truly the tragedy of this country, said Zhang in her last video. If not for whistleblowers or Zhang, the world would have never learnt the basics of the pandemic in time. Even the WHO was notified a day after ProMed had sent out an alert. It was a strange virus Even as the world was grappling with Chinese deceit in hiding the outbreak, genome, and human-to-human transmissions, scientists were baffled by the virus itself. The novel coronavirus, which would be later named SARS-CoV-2, had two unique features that stood out. One, the virus was pre-adapted to infect humans from day one. Usually, when pathogens emerge, they take time to master the human-to-human transmission, but that was not the case with SARS-CoV-2. In a study in May 2020, Shing Hei Zhan, Benjamin E Deverman, and Alina Chan of Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard noted that the virus was already pre-adapted to human transmission to an extent similar to late epidemic SARS-CoV the SARS-CoV being the coronavirus that caused the SARS epidemic of 2002-03. Two, SARS-CoV-2 had something called furin cleavage sites (FCS). The FCS on the spike protein of the virus allows it to enter human cells. In simple words, it is this feature that gave the virus the ability to infect humans. What made the presence of FCS in SARS-CoV-2 strange was its rarity in the family of coronaviruses to which SARS-CoV-2 belongs. Richard H Ebright, a molecular biologist at Rutgers University, says that SARS-CoV-2 is the only one of more than 800 known SARS-related coronaviruses that has FCS. The probability of encountering a natural SARS-related coronavirus possessing FCS having the genetic make-up that SARS-CoV-2 has ranges from less than 1 in 24,000 to less than 1 in 720,000, says Ebright, the Board of Governors Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Rutgers and Laboratory Director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology. Without FCS, it is unlikely SARS-CoV-2 would have caused a worldwide pandemic, says Ebright. A lab or the breeding ground? Against this background, Broad Institutes Shing, Deverman, and Alina cautiously floated the possibility in their study that SARS-CoV-2 might have originated in a laboratory. They said the possibility that a non-genetically-engineered precursor could have adapted to humans while being studied in a laboratory should be considered, regardless of how likely or unlikely. But which lab could it be? Next door to where the outbreak first happened in Wuhan lay Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), the world leader in coronavirus research where Shi Zhengli, known as Bat Woman for her work on bat coronaviruses, worked. Shi and her collaborators had proposed inserting FCS, the extremely rare feature of SARS-CoV-2 that gave it the ability to cause the pandemic, into coronaviruses in her lab the previous year more on that later. Moreover, Shis lab also had the closest ancestor of SARS-CoV-2 in her lab from 2013 that was a 96.2 per cent match. She mentioned nonchalantly in a paper in Nature on Feb. 3 that this virus from 2013, RaTG13, was collected in Yunnan province. Security personnel keep watch outside the Wuhan Institute of Virology during the visit by the World Health Organization (WHO) team tasked with investigating the origins of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. Source: REUTERS | FILE. The significance of RaTG13 was learnt in May not from Shi but from open-source investigations and analyses by internet sleuths from a collective called DRASTIC, short for Decentralised Radical Autonomous Search Team Investigating Covid-19. In May 2020, Prasenjit Ray, who goes by the name The Seeker on X, found two theses by Chinese medical professionals in Chinese repositories after searching the web for days. Ray along with three other scientists including two Indians connected the dots. [READ HERE THE COMPLETE STORY OF HOW A COVID-LIKE DISEASE KILLED MINE WORKERS IN CHINA 2012 AND CHINA COVERED IT UP: 5 years later, smoking gun points to Chinas Wuhan lab in search of Covid-19 origin] Two days before Shis paper, a separate team of Chinese scientists had reported in another paper that a virus found in Yunnan, BtCoV/4991, had a 98.7 per cent match with SARS-CoV-2. Prompted by a discussion on an online forum on February 20, Rosanna Segreto, a microbiologist at the University of Innsbruck in Austria, figured out there was a 100 per cent match between BtCoV/4991 and RaTG13. It was clear the two were the same. A regime covers up the leak of Covid origin Why did Chinese scientists change the name of viruses? One might call it a naming mistake or a sampling error if it would have been a singular mistake or omission. However, the string of cover-ups so far indicates that the change of name could have been another effort to hide the extent of risky viral research that Chinese scientists were doing. Once DRASTIC put out the Chinese cover-up in public domain, Shi admitted in July that BtCoV/4991 and RaTG13 were the same the BtCoV/4991 being a partial sequence of the full genome of RaTG13. Where did the virus come from though? The theses Ray discovered answered the question. The virus came from a mine in Yunnans Mojiang county where four of six sick mine workers died from a SARS-like virus infection in 2012. In the wake of Segretos discovery and armed by two theses he had found, Ray reached out to Pune-based scientists Monali Rahalkar and Rahul Bahulikar. In October, Rahalkar, a scientist at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI), and Bahulikar, a Senior Scientist at the BAIF Development Research Foundation, published a paper in Frontiers in Public Health that connected the dots between the miners in 2012, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and how RaTG13. They noted (see the chart below) that miners in 2012 and Covid-19 patients had identical symptoms and disease progression. Source: Lethal Pneumonia Cases in Mojiang Miners (2012) and the Mineshaft Could Provide Important Clues to the Origin of SARS-CoV-2 in Frontiers of Public Health by Monali Rahalkar and Rahul Bahulikar. Rahalkar and Bahulikar concluded, Although we cannot say that RaTG13 or SARS-CoV-2 infected the miners, there is a high chance that it could be a virus quite similar in genetic composition to these two. Separately, Rahalkar tells Firstpost that even though RaTG13 was a 96.2 per cent match to SARS-CoV-2 on RNA level, the two viruses are much more similar. The interesting part is that at the amino acid-level, similarities between most of the proteins of the two viruses are 98-99 per cent. The two viruses are more similar than we think, says Rahalkar, a Scientist-E at the Nanobioscience Group at ARI Pune. In 2012, China had a SARS-like viral outbreak in a mine and a Covid-like disease. A virus sample from the mine with the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a near-match to the SARS-CoV-2 and the Chinese regime knew it but kept it hidden. But the now-obvious-deceit does not end here. The only visible difference between the disease in Mojiang and Covid-19 appeared to be that while SARS-CoV-2 causing Covid-19 was highly transmissible, the Mojiang virus did not appear to be that transmissible as only six cases were reported. In their book Viral: The Search for the Origin of Covid-19, the Broad Institutes Alina and science writer Matt Ridley note that it suggests that the virus or viruses responsible for their illness very likely had not evolved to be as transmissible among humans as SARS-CoV-2 is and the mine workers only fell sick perhaps because they had been exposed to massive doses of the virus via the disturbed dust of bat guano within the confines of a poorly ventilated mineshaft for extended periods of time. How this gap between the 2012 virus and SARS-CoV-2 could have been bridged can be understood by a research project from 2018 that Wuhan Institutes Shi was part of. More proof suggesting non-natural origin of Covid-19 In 2021, a 75-page proposal dating to 2018 emerged that detailed how US and Chinese scientists wanted to insert furin cleavage sites (FCS) into SARS-like coronaviruses. As Ebright, the molecular biologist at Rutgers, says, the FCS is what made SARS-CoV-2 a pandemic-potential pathogen. The DEFUSE proposal is the blueprint of inserting FCS into a coronavirus like RaTG13, which means the proposal makes way for converting a virus like RaTG13 found in the Mojiang mine in 2013 into SARS-CoV-2. The proposal, called Project DEFUSE: Defusing the Threat of Bat-borne Coronaviruses, was submitted to the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), and was drafted by EcoHealth Alliance, the New York-based non-governmental organisation, and included Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). The project was rejected by DARPA. Ray of the collective DRASTIC tells Firstpost that DEFUSE serves as the Rosetta Stone for the understanding of the origin of SARS-CoV-2 the Rosetta Stone being the ancient inscription that allowed the world to decipher ancient Egypts hieroglyphics after being in dark for nearly 1,500 years. Ray tells Firstpost, It sheds a great deal of light about their research intentions leading up to the pandemic and it goes beyond just the furin cleavage site (FCS). The entire genome of SARS-CoV-2 aligns with what was outlined in DEFUSE. Almost every feature of the virus, from the spike protein to the FCS and the insertion of restriction sites, matches with what was outlined in the DEFUSE proposal. Ray says that even the timeline of the outbreak in Wuhan and the filing of the DEFUSE proposal align perfectly. He says that any viruses developed under DEFUSE protocols would have been ready by the time Covid-19 emerged in Wuhan, which also helps explain the timing of the outbreak. In conclusion, Ray says DEFUSE is about as close to a smoking gun as were likely to get. Metzl, the biotech futurist at Atlantic Council, says that the DEFUSE proposal was a blueprint for SARS-CoV-2. If you did exactly what was described in the proposal, you would have created exactly like the kind of virus, SARS-CoV-2, that emerged a year later, says Metzl. Its a political pandemic, China needs to be held accountable Even as scientists and politicians had for a long time considered science to be apolitical, Metzl says that Covid-19 pandemic is a political pandemic. Metzl says that the nature of the Chinese regime allowed for the outbreak in Wuhan to become a worldwide pandemic. Metzl indicts the world powers for not grasping Chinese designs and facilitating its rise. He says that the world believed that if China was brought into the mainstream, such as in the World Trade Organization (WTO), then it would work in a mutually-beneficial manner and that even though China has a completely different political system, there could still be areas such as scientific collaboration and climate change that would remain apolitical. With the Covid-19 pandemic, such ideas fell apart and it became clear that there was no such thing as fully apolitical in an oppressive, authoritarian state like China, says Metzl. While Metzl is convinced that SARS-CoV-2 came from a lab, based on the series of developments from 2012 and 2019, including the DEFUSE proposal, he says that the Chinese regime would remain the primary cause of the pandemic even if the virus would have originated in nature. If the virus originated in nature as zoonosis supporters say, it would mean the virus jumped into humans from illegal animal trade that the Chinese regime allowed to prosper for years. It means that irrespective of the origin, whether in a lab or in nature, Chinese state practices are the cause of the pandemic, says Metzl. Moreover, the outbreak in Wuhan spread to the rest of the world from actions of the Chinese state after the outbreak began, says Metzl. As Metzl highlighted earlier, if the Chinese authorities would have informed the world at once and shared everything they knew at once, ranging from the genome, the knowledge of transmission, and years of research on coronaviruses, then there would have been no pandemic as quick lockdowns in Wuhan and elsewhere would have contained the disease to a great extent. What happened was that the Chinese authorities deception allowed the unrestrained travel of infected persons to all quarters of the world. The WHO says that over 770 million people fell sick and more than 7 million died. The actual death toll is believed to be exponentially higher as testing had essentially collapsed at the peak of the pandemic and countless deaths in India and the United States were never formally attributed to Covid-19 in the absence of formal diagnosis. Metzl says, Regardless of how the virus originated, what happened after the initial spillover was that the Chinese state allowed the outbreak equivalent of a stove fire to turn into a global inferno. In the critical first days and weeks after the spillover, the Chinese did everything wrong and everything possible for political purposes to prevent the kind of response that was so urgently needed from the very beginning. They started destroying samples, hiding records, imprisoning Chinese citizen journalists for asking basic questions. They passed a gag order preventing Chinese scientists from writing or saying anything publicly about pandemic origin without prior government approval. They blocked international access to Wuhan even disallowing the WHO. Chinese authorities were actively and knowingly lying, suppressing information internally, and lying to the international community. Metzl further says that even though the virus most likely originated in the lab but even if it originated in nature, it did not have to escalate into a worldwide pandemic. Metzl says, Had the spillover happened in a more open society like the USA, UK, or India, the chances of a meaningful response that would have prevented the entire pandemic would have been orders of magnitude greater. The Covid-19 is clearly a political pandemic created by the Chinese state. Once the pandemic began, China milked it Metzl says that China exercised monopoly over supply chains and even as the world was reeling under an unprecedented pandemic, China went about seeking global domination. Whether it was supply chain or leveraging its control over a certain items like personal protective equipment or moving aggressively to seek domination in parts of the of the developing world or manipulating organisations like the WHO to prevent any meaningful response or stopping any meaningful investigation into Covid-19 origins, China knowingly did everything wrong to from the beginning. If we want to have a better outcome at the time of the next pandemic, we need to hold China fully accountable for its malfeasance in the context of Covid-19, says Metzl. In his book Smokeless War: Chinas Quest for Geopolitical Dominance, Manoj Kewalramani noted that China was being opportunistic amid a global crisis to exploit and coerce others while furthering its strategic objectives. While the world was distracted in Covid-19, China ramped up drills around Taiwan and increased harassment of Vietnamese and Japanese vessels in disputed waters. It also began to assert itself in various theatres like it had not done in decades. In the South China Sea, China published standardised names for 80 islands, reefs, and other geographical features as parts of its cartographic warfare to assert sovereignty over these areas. In the Western Himalayas, Chinese soldiers clashed with India and entered into a war-like military stand-off that was only resolved partially early this year. There was a growing sense that the Chinese leadership was pushing the envelope on territorial disputes, taking advantage of its success in containing the virus while others struggled, noted Kewalramani. Ray from the collective DRASTIC says the Covid-19 pandemic could be seen as a plane crash killing 20 million people. Imagine a plane crash with around 20 million people on board. After months and years of searching for the black box to figure out what happened, you find out that someone has it but refuses to share it. Even worse, they insist that the cause is already settled and they deny any human error could be involved. Thats pretty much what were dealing with regarding the origins of Covid-19, says Ray. While experts and researchers debate the origin of SARS-CoV-2 or Covid-19, the disease it causes, through the means of science, a lot depends on the decisions of political leaders in Chinas communist regime to know the exact or the final answer to illness that jolted the world like nothing else did in the post-war world. Two days after 179 people onboard Jeju Airs Boeing 737-800 were killed in a crash, Jeju Air CEO Kim Yi-bae on Tuesday said that no safety issues were flagged in pre-flight checks before the plane took off, according to a report read more The wreckage of a Boeing 737-800 plane operated by South Korean budget airline Jeju Air lies at Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, on Tuesday. AP Two days after 179 people onboard Jeju Airs Boeing 737-800 were killed in a crash, Jeju Air CEO Kim Yi-bae on Tuesday said that no safety issues were flagged in pre-flight checks before the plane took off. We will repair trust by strengthening the safety measures, BBC quoted Kim as saying while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. He said the airline will reduce its winter air traffic by between 10-15%. This cut is not an admission that the airline was running too many flights, he added. Advertisement He said the airline is preparing emergency compensation for victims families and will cover funeral costs. Meanwhile, the investigators have started inspecting the planes two black boxes - the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder. Data have begun being downloaded from the voice recorder, but officials are struggling to extract data from the flight data recorder, which is said to be missing a critical connector, reported BBC. Nearly 180 people died after a plane crashed as it was landing in South Korea on Sunday morning. Footage shows the Jeju Air plane coming off the runway before colliding with a barrier and bursting into flames at Muan International Airport. The plane, which was returning from Bangkok, Thailand, was carrying 181 people - 179 of whom were killed. Two crew members were rescued from the wreckage. The Transport Ministry has identified 175 bodies and is conducting DNA tests to identify the remaining. With inputs from agencies Air India launches 'Maharaja Club Points Plus offer 13 Mar 2025 | 11:49 PM Kochi, Mar 13 (UNI) Air India, Indias leading global airline, has introduced Maharaja Club Points Plus offer which enables frequent flyer members to maximise the reward points earned with eligible bank partners. see more.. TVS Motors partner with PLI to elevate Indian Motorsport excellence 13 Mar 2025 | 10:57 PM Hyderabad, Mar 13 (UNI) TVS Motor Company (TVSM) - a leading global automaker in the two and three-wheeler segment, on Thursday said that it has further strengthened its partnership with PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) to elevate the Indian motorsport landscape. see more.. The two countries have deepened political, military and cultural ties since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with Putin and Kim repeatedly professing their personal closeness read more North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hailed Vladimir Putin as his dearest friend in a New Years letter to the Russian leader praising close bilateral ties, state media said on Tuesday. The two countries have deepened political, military and cultural ties since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with Putin and Kim repeatedly professing their personal closeness. They signed a landmark defence pact during Putins visit to the isolated North in June. The pact obligates them to provide immediate military assistance if the other is invaded and came into effect this month. Advertisement Kims latest message described Putin as his dearest friend and comrade, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. The Norths leader sent warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK, it said, using an acronym of the Norths formal name. Kim also expressed his willingness to design and push ahead with new projects after their meaningful journey in 2024. In a possible reference to the war in Ukraine, Kim also hoped that 2025 would be the year when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory. The United States and South Korea have accused the nuclear-armed North of sending more than 10,000 soldiers to help Russia fight Ukraine. Experts say Kim is keen to acquire advanced technology from Moscow and battle experience for his troops in return. North Korean state media said on Friday Putin had sent a similar message to Kim praising bilateral ties. Investigators probing Yoon over his declaration of martial law requested the warrant Monday after the suspended president failed to report for questioning a third time read more A South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for impeached, suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol, investigators said Tuesday, over his short-lived bid to impose martial law on the country. The arrest warrant and search warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol, requested by the Joint Investigation Headquarters, were issued this morning, the Joint Investigation Headquarters said in a statement. No schedule has been set for future proceedings, it added. Investigators probing Yoon over his declaration of martial law requested the warrant Monday after the suspended president failed to report for questioning a third time. Advertisement Yoon briefly suspended civilian rule this month, plunging South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades. He was stripped of his presidential duties by parliament over the action, but a constitutional court ruling is pending on whether to confirm the impeachment. The conservative leader also faces criminal charges of insurrection, which could result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The warrant was issued about 33 hours after it was requested which local media claim is the longest time in history for a warrant hearing, indicating the court was debating how to proceed. Even though the warrant has been issued, it is unclear whether investigators and police will be able to execute it. The Presidential Security Service has previously refused to comply with three search warrants. Police were deployed early Tuesday outside Yoons residence in central Seoul, in a likely bid to head off scuffles. Yoons supporters and protesters calling for his removal have both staked out his residence, with local media running images of altercations between the two camps overnight. Local media reported than an imminent arrest or search of the presidential residence was unlikely, as investigators would probably seek to coordinate with the presidential security service. Advertisement Technically, anyone obstructing the execution of an arrest warrant could be arrested. Joint probe Yoon is being investigated by prosecutors as well as a joint team comprising police, defence ministry, and anti-corruption officials. A 10-page prosecutors report seen by AFP stated that Yoon authorised the military to fire weapons if needed to enter parliament during his failed martial law bid. Yoons lawyer Yoon Kab-keun had dismissed the prosecutors report, telling AFP it was a one-sided account that neither corresponds to objective circumstances nor common sense. Yoon declared martial law in an unannounced televised address on December 3, saying it was aimed at eliminating anti-state elements. Advertisement Lawmakers rushed to parliament within minutes of the declaration to vote it down. At the same time, heavily armed troops stormed the building, scaling fences, smashing windows and landing by helicopter. According to the prosecution indictment report, Yoon told the chief of the capital defence command, Lee Jin-woo, that military forces could shoot if necessary to enter the National Assembly. The report also said there was evidence that Yoon had been discussing declaring martial law with senior military officials as early as March. South Koreas political turmoil deepened late last week when Yoons replacement, Han Duck-soo, was also impeached by parliament for failing to sign through bills for investigations into Yoon. Advertisement Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has taken over as the new acting president, and found himself thrust immediately into a disaster with the Jeju Air plane crash Sunday that claimed 179 lives. Maysaa Sabrine has been appointed by Syrias new leaders to lead the Syrian central bank, making her the first woman to hold the post in its more than 70-year history read more Maysaa Sabrine has been appointed as the chief of the Syrian central bank. Source: X Syrias new rulers have appointed Maysaa Sabrine, formerly a deputy governor of the Syrian central bank, to lead the institution as the first woman to do so in its more than 70-year history, a senior Syrian official said. Sabrine, a longtime central bank official mostly focused on oversight of the countrys banking sector, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. She replaces Mohammed Issam Hazime who was appointed governor in 2021 by then-President Bashar al-Assad and remained on after Assad was ousted by a lightning rebel offensive on December 8. Advertisement Since the rebel takeover, the bank has taken steps to liberalise an economy that was heavily controlled by the state, including by cancelling the need for pre-approvals for imports and exports and tight controls on the use of foreign currency. But Syria and the bank itself remain under strict US sanctions. The bank has also taken stock of the countrys assets after Assads fall and a brief spate of looting that saw Syrian currency stolen but the main vaults left unbreached, Reuters reported. The vault holds nearly 26 tons of gold, the same amount it had at the start of its civil war in 2011, sources told Reuters, but foreign currency reserves had dwindled from around $18 billion before the war to around $200 million, they said. The anniversary comes two days after the death of former US president Jimmy Carter, at age 100, who signed the canal treaties that led to the vital waterways transfer on December 31, 1999 read more A cargo ship traverses the Agua Clara Locks of the Panama Canal in Colon, Panama, September 2, 2024. File Image/AP Panama on Tuesday will mark the 25th anniversary of the United States handover of its interoceanic canal, a milestone overshadowed by Donald Trumps threat to demand control be returned to Washington. The anniversary comes two days after the death of former US president Jimmy Carter, at age 100, who signed the canal treaties that led to the vital waterways transfer on December 31, 1999. Trump, who will return to the White House on January 20, sparked anger among Panamanians by recently saying that Washington would demand the canal be returned to us if Panama could not ensure its secure, efficient and reliable operation. Advertisement The US president-elect slammed what he called ridiculous fees for US ships passing through the canal and even alleged, without evidence, that Chinese soldiers were lovingly, but illegally, operating the channel. Theres nothing that unites Panamanians more than the defense of the canal, political scientist Sabrina Bacal said. But having a tense relationship with the superpower, the main trading partner and main user of the canal, is a very disadvantageous situation for a country like Panama, she told AFP. Francisco Cedeno, a 51-year-old graphic designer, described Trumps threats as completely nonsensical. He should first try to resolve his countrys many problems and forget about the canal, Cedeno said. The people dont benefit An estimated five percent of global maritime traffic passes through the Panama Canal, which was inaugurated in 1914 and allows ships to avoid the long, hazardous route around the southern tip of South America. The United States is its main user, accounting for 74 percent of cargo, followed by China with 21 percent. The canal generates six percent of Panamas national economic output and 20 percent of its fiscal revenues. Since 2000 it has pumped around $28 billion into state coffers. However, many Panamanians say they have not felt the benefits. Advertisement We Panamanians should not be as poor as we are because the canal brings in a lot of money, said Clotilde Sanchez, a 55-year-old cleaner in Panama Citys banking district. The people dont benefit from the canal, only politicians do, said her colleague Nadili Perez, 40. According to Bacal, the political scientist, this feeling of not benefiting from the canal has existed for years, but the reality is that the canal is the main source of wealth for Panamanians. The anniversary will be celebrated with a ceremony led by Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and canal administrator Ricaurte Vasquez. A march is planned in honor of around 20 Panamanians killed in 1964 after students tried to raise a Panamanian flag in the former Canal Zone, a US enclave that had its own military bases, police and justice system. Advertisement The canal handover came after Carter went back on a campaign promise during his first year in office and decided to cede management of the waterway. The treaties he signed with Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos on September 7, 1977 put an end to an era of subjugation and began a period of independence and dignity, former president Martin Torrijos, the nationalist leaders son, told AFP. Any attempt to reverse or violate our sovereignty will be condemned and rejected by all Panamanians, he added. Mulino has ruled out negotiations with Trump over control of the canal, and denied that China had any influence over it. Advertisement There are no Chinese soldiers in the canal, for the love of God, he said. The United States on Tuesday issued fresh Iran and Russiarelated sanctions targeting individuals and entities over interference in the 2024 U.S. election, according to a posting on a Treasury Department website. read more The US Treasury Department in a letter to lawmakers has claimed Chinese state-sponsored hackers breached the department computer systems earlier this month, stealing documents in what it described as a major incident read more America has claimed that a Chinese state-sponsored hacker has breached the US Treasury Departments computer systems earlier this month, accessing employee workstations and stealing some unclassified documents. The US Treasury Department characterised the breach as a major incident, stating that it had been working with the FBI and other agencies to investigate the impact. When & how China hacked US Treasury Department systems In a letter notifying the incident to lawmakers, the US Treasury Department said that the breach occurred in early December through a third-party cybersecurity provider, BeyondTrust who were able to access unclassified documents. What all data have been accessed In the letter, the US Treasury Department claimed that hackers gained access to a key used by BeyondTrust to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support for Treasury Departmental Offices (DO) end users. With access to the stolen key, the threat actor was able to override the services security, remotely access certain Treasury DO user workstations, and access certain unclassified documents maintained by those users, it further stated. Advertisement The Treasury Department further said that it was alerted by Georgia-based BeyondTrust about the breach on December 8. As per a BBC report, the company first spotted the suspicious activity on December 2, but it took three days for them to determine that it had been hacked. Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a Chinese state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor, assistant secretary for management at the US Treasury, Aditi Hardikar, wrote in the letter. Meanwhile, a spokesperson of the Treasury Department said that the hacker was able to remotely access several Treasury user workstations and certain unclassified documents that were kept by those users. The spokesperson further informed, The compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline and there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information. It also said that there is no evidence to suggest the hacker has continued to access Treasury Department information since. However, the department did not specify when and for how long the hack took place and the nature of the files being accessed or stolen. They also did not specify the level of confidentiality of the computer systems. Advertisement A report by Reuters said a spokesperson for BeyondTrust, based in Johns Creek, Georgia, told the agency that the company previously identified and took measures to address a security incident in early December 2024 involving its remote support product. BeyondTrust notified the limited number of customers who were involved, and law enforcement was notified, the spokesperson said. BeyondTrust has been supporting the investigative efforts. Accusation part of US smear attack China, meanwhile, rejected any responsibility for the hack and said that the accusation is a part of a smear attack and was made without any factual basis. Beijing firmly opposes the USs smear attacks against China without any factual basis, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington said. With inputs from agencies. A rigorous interagency review process determined that he was eligible for transfer from the detention facility, according to a press statement read more Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi, a Guantanamo Bay detainee, has been returned to Tunisia, the US Department of Defence announced. A rigorous interagency review process determined that he was eligible for transfer from the detention facility, according to a press statement. The Pentagon did not specify whether Yazidi admitted any responsibility. The Guantanamo Bay detention facility has been used to keep what the US regards as captured illegal combatants during Americas war on terror since 2002. Advertisement The camp is part of a US naval facility complex in southeast Cuba. According to an unsubstantiated story in the New York Times, Yazidi was never indicted and was authorised for transfer over a decade ago. The article also stated that he has been at Guantanamo Bay since the facilitys inception in 2002. According to Mondays Pentagon announcement, 26 inmates remain at Guantanamo Bay, 14 of whom are eligible for transfer. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghabreyesus said hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds after Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, was arrested by Israeli forces following a raid on the hospital that shut down the last major functioning health facility in the region read more World Health Organization (WHO) Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged Israel to stop attacks on hospitals. In a strongly worded message on X, he wrote, Hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds and the health system is under severe threat, highlighting the severe condition of the place. The message of WHO chief comes after Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, was arrested by Israeli forces following a raid on the hospital that shut down the last major functioning health facility in the region. Advertisement According to reports from former detainees, Dr. Abu Safiya is being held at the controversial Sde Teiman military base, a notorious detention facility in the Negev desert. The Israeli military claimed Dr. Abu Safiya was detained due to alleged ties to Hamas, labeling him as a terrorist operative and accusing the hospital of being a Hamas stronghold. However, no evidence has been provided to substantiate these claims. In his message, Ghebreyesus further asked for the release of Safiya, writing, Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is out of service following the raid, forced patient and staff evacuation and the detention of its director, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya two days ago. His whereabouts are unknown. We call for his immediate release. He also updated that the critical patients were moved to Indonesian Hospital, which, however, is out of function as well. Amid ongoing chaos in northern Gaza, @WHO and partners today delivered basic medical and hygiene supplies, food and water to Indonesian Hospital and transferred 10 critical patients to Al-Shifa Hospital. Four patients were detained during the transfer. We urge Israel to ensure their health care needs and rights are upheld The WHO chief further informed that seven patients along with 15 caregivers and health workers remain at the severely damaged Indonesian Hospital, which has no ability to provide care. Informing netizens that Al-Ahli Hospital and Al-Wafa Rehabilitation Hospital in Gaza City also faced attacks he concluded by posting, We repeat: stop attacks on hospitals. People in Gaza need access to health care. Humanitarians need access to provide health aid. Ceasefire! Advertisement Hospitals in #Gaza have once again become battlegrounds and the health system is under severe threat. Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern #Gaza is out of service following the raid, forced patient and staff evacuation and the detention of its director, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya two Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) December 30, 2024 For the uninformed, the raid on Kamal Adwan hospital occurred on Friday, with staff members reporting that Israeli forces started a fire in the hospital and subjected them to hours of forced disrobing before evacuating the premises. Journalists and medical staff who were detained described the conditions as inhumane, with one journalist recounting the harsh treatment experienced during his detention. Advertisement Former detainees released from Sde Teiman reported seeing Dr. Abu Safiya in the facility, though the Israeli military has not confirmed this. One detainee, Ahmad Al Sayyed Saleem, recognised the doctor and reported that he was brought to the prison alongside other medical staff from Kamal Adwan. The detention of Dr. Abu Safiya has drawn international condemnation. MedGlobal, the nonprofit organisation where he served as the lead physician in Gaza, voiced concerns about the doctors welfare. Dr. Zaher Sahloul, president of MedGlobal, called the arrest a violation of international humanitarian law, emphasizing the crucial role Dr. Abu Safiya played in providing healthcare under harrowing conditions. Advertisement Notably, the raid on Kamal Adwan has left northern Gaza without a functioning hospital. With inputs from agencies. Pakistans security forces faced their highest casualties in a decade due to escalating violence from militant groups, particularly in Balochistan and along the Afghan border read more In 2024, Pakistan experienced one of its deadliest years in recent history, with violence claiming the lives of security personnel, civilians, and militants alike. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), the country recorded over 2,500 fatalitiesa staggering 66 per cent increase from 2023, marking the highest toll in a decade. This surge in violence heavily impacted regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, exacerbating Pakistans already fragile security situation. Advertisement Rising violence and a growing death toll The CRSS report paints a grim picture of Pakistans security situation in 2024. There were 2,546 deaths from violence, including 1,612 civilians and security personnel, making up over 63 per cent of the total fatalities. In comparison, 934 militants and criminals were killed in counter-terror operations. This imbalance highlights the heavy toll on civilians and security forces amid ongoing conflict. According to The Tribune, the worsening situation shows how civilians are increasingly caught in the crossfire as militants continue their activities unchecked. On average, nearly seven people lost their lives daily to violence in Pakistan during 2024. November emerged as the deadliest month, recording the highest number of attacks, deaths and injuries. Heaviest toll in KP and Balochistan KP and Balochistan bore the brunt of the violence in 2024, accounting for 94 per cent of all deaths and 89 per cent of violent incidents, as per CRSS data. KPs districts bordering Afghanistan, such as Kurram, North Waziristan and Khyber, were hardest hit. These areas have long struggled with militant activity and the situation worsened after the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan. Dawn reports that these porous border regions have become hotspots for insurgents, enabling easy cross-border movement. Balochistan also witnessed a sharp rise in violence. The Tribune highlights that the provinces 2024 death toll was nearly equivalent to the combined fatalities of the previous three years (202123). This alarming trend reflects the growing intensity of insurgent activities. Separatist groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) have capitalised on Afghanistans instability, further fuelling regional conflict. Advertisement Surge in terrorist attacks The CRSS report notes that in 2024, Pakistan recorded 1,166 violent incidents, including terror attacks and counter-terror operations. Terror attacks significantly outnumbered security actions, with 909 attacks compared to 257 operations. The Tribune emphasises that this imbalance shows the challenges Pakistans military faces in countering well-organised, cross-border militant groups. Despite numerous military operations, the escalating number of attacks suggests that militants have adapted to avoid direct confrontations while employing more advanced tactics against civilian and military targets. The resurgence of militancy that began in 2021 gained momentum in 2024, influenced by the Talibans return to power in Afghanistan. Dawn attributes this to factors like the availability of safe havens for militant groups along both sides of the Afghan-Pakistan border. Groups such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have drawn inspiration from the Talibans success, increasing their activities in the region. Advertisement In 2024, 685 security personnel lost their lives making it the deadliest year for Pakistans forces in a decade. Although 934 militants were killed in counter-terror operations, the higher death toll among security personnel raises questions about the effectiveness of these efforts. The Tribune reports that the mounting casualties, particularly in KP and Balochistan, highlight a worsening security crisis. Growing impact of insurgency The insurgency in Balochistan worsened in 2024 with ethnic separatists and Islamist militants escalating violence. Separatists increasingly targeted civilian infrastructure and government sites while alliances with transnational militants further intensified the conflict. In KP and tribal areas, the TTP expanded its operations, causing more civilian and military casualties. Since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan, the TTP has regrouped and grown stronger, leaving Pakistan struggling to restore security and stability. Advertisement Geneva, Dec 31 (UNI) China has a moral scientific obligation to share data on the origins of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a statement on the fifth anniversary of the first media article about cases of respiratory infection in Wuhan. "We continue to call on China to share data and access so we can understand the origins of COVID-19. This is a moral and scientific imperative. Without transparency, sharing, and cooperation among countries, the world cannot adequately prevent and prepare for future epidemics and pandemics," the statement says. In August, WHO spokesperson Maria Van Kerkhove told RIA Novosti that China was not cooperating sufficiently with the World Health Organization (WHO) on the origins of COVID-19, but the investigation was still ongoing. On December 31, 2019, Chinese authorities informed the WHO about an outbreak of unknown pneumonia in the city of Wuhan in the central part of the country (Hubei Province). Moreover, the first cases were reportedly somehow connected to the local seafood market. In early January 2020, China officially announced that the outbreak of viral pneumonia of unknown origin was caused by a new type of coronavirus. And already on March 11, 2020, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that the spread of the new coronavirus was of a pandemic nature. Following a two-year investigation, US congressmen stated that the coronavirus most likely had a laboratory origin and spread as a result of a leak from a laboratory in Wuhan. UNI SPUTNIK GNK The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is set to be unveiled at a Galaxy Unpacked event in January 2025. While details remain under wraps, several leaks and rumors are already making waves, with the latest hinting at an exciting potential partnership with Google. Free Gemini Advanced Subscription with Galaxy S25 Series? A recent teardown of the Google app (version 15.52.37 beta) from Android Authority has uncovered strings suggesting that Samsung may offer free Gemini Advanced subscriptions with the Galaxy S25 series. This could mean that when purchasing a Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, or S25 Ultra, users might get free access to Googles Gemini Advanced AI service. According to the report, there are different tiers of Gemini Advanced subscriptions, and the trial duration may vary depending on the model: Galaxy S25: Three months of free Gemini Advanced Galaxy S25 Plus: Six months of free Gemini Advanced Galaxy S25 Ultra: One year of free Gemini Advanced Although these details are based on code strings found in the app and have not been officially confirmed, the possibility of this offer being included is intriguing. This move would mirror Samsungs previous collaboration with Circle to Search in the Galaxy S24 series. Additional Features of the Galaxy S25 Series Alongside the potential Gemini Advanced trial, the Galaxy S25 series is expected to feature enhanced AI capabilities through the latest One UI 7 operating system. Furthermore, practical features like Car Crash Detection are also rumored, which would enhance user safety. Launch Date? As the launch date approaches, more details about the Galaxy S25 series are likely to emerge. Based on current leaks, the release is expected to take place on January 22, 2025, with further updates anticipated in the coming weeks. Source New Delhi, Dec 31 (UNI) The Foreign Ministers of the Quad in a joint statement commemorating the 20th Anniversary of Quad Cooperation, said the bloc comprising India, US, Japan and Australia, is committed to working together in responding to the future needs of the Indo-Pacific region. Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States came together in service to the people of our region for the first time as the grouping now known as the Quad. The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries. Together our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe. We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost. Our foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region. In 2024, our four countries collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific, and we continue to build on those efforts to identify new ways to respond rapidly to humanitarian crises and disasters. What began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of our region. Quad countries now work together and with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address complex challenges, from fighting climate change, cancer, and pandemics, to bolstering quality infrastructure, maritime domain awareness, STEM education, counter-terrorism efforts, critical and emerging technologies, and cyber security. Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quads positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEANs centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the regions premier organization. UNI RN Stories of High-Quality Development | "Small money" is more effective than "big money" in supporting tech companies People's Daily Online) 16:34, December 30, 2024 How can the financial system adapt to the development of new quality productive forces? Wang Yiming, vice chairman of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said that tech companies need long-term, sustained investment, but financial institutions prefer offering "short-term money." Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tech industry need "small money" in their early stages, while financial institutions are used to providing "big money." In developing new quality productive forces, the financial system needs to undergo adaptive adjustment. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. by Monte Davis Whats a blind spot? Physically, it might be an area obscured behind a clump of trees in an otherwise open landscape. Or a gap between the views in the side and rear-view mirrors. Lines of sight cut short, or nonexistent. Metaphorically, it gains new connotation: a blind spot is something you dont perceive or understand and you are unaware of not perceiving or grasping it (while presumably the one who points that out does so.) So: no there there. Anatomically, its the optic disc the spot on each retina where neurons with news from all the light-sensitive rods and cones of the retina converge into the optic nerves. The optic disc itself, first described in 1666, has no sensors. So perceptually, your blind spots are two portions of the visual field that are inaccessible to vision. Even if you learned about them long ago, try this this simple, clever demo. (The link is a PDF file, and works poorly on a smartphone screen: view it on a desktop or laptop screen, or print it out.) Are the blind spots big? SWAG it: your field of vision is roughly 210 degrees left to right, 150 degrees top to bottom. The blind spots are ovals 7-8 degrees wide and 5-6 degrees high, making their area less than one percent of the fields total area. On the other hand, the full moon is just one-half degree across. So those two no-go zones, the blind spots youre unaware of very nearly all your life, are each about a hundred times the area of the full moon. Are the blind spots small? As a magazine science writer in 1978, I had an inch-deep acquaintance with neuroscience when I attended a talk by David Marr at MIT. At 32, Marr had been a rising star since his Cambridge doctoral thesis, A General Theory for Cerebral Cortex. (Yes, it was just as ambitious as that sounds.) Trained in mathematics as well as neurophysiology, Marr developed a schema for questions to be answered at different levels in any theory of an information-processing task. At MIT he concentrated on vision, and his talk was electric with ideas. In an interview afterward, I asked Marr what hed like to know about our non-perception of the blind spots. He replied that he hadnt given it much thought, but the answer would probably involve interpolation from the surroundings of the spots, and integration over time as our gaze moves. Then he brightened: But that would be relatively simple sleight of hand. The real trick is keeping you unaware of just how narrow your macular and foveal vison is, and how sketchy all the rest is. Id love to understand that! Look: directly behind the pupil and lens is the macula, an oval yellowish patch about 5 millimeters (less than a quarter-inch) across. Its visual angle is about 5 degrees. Centered in the macula and just visible at center right is a concave dip, the fovea, about 1.5 millimeters (6/100ths of an inch) across. Its visual angle is about 1 degree. Cones the photoreceptor cells responsible for color vision, quick to respond to changes are packed 200 times more densely in the fovea. Rods, more useful in dimmer light but insensitive to color, are concentrated in a ring around the macula. The density of both rods and cones falls off with increasing distance from the macula. The results are dramatic. Lets say you bring 20/20 vision to bear on a typical printed page at normal reading distance. Fix your eyes. The 1-degree visual angle of the fovea takes in a single 7-letter word. At 2 degrees out from the center, visual acuity is about 20/40. At the edge of the printed page, its about 20/140. Marrs point was that the area of detailed vision is stunningly small a few times the area of the full moon. We do not experience how rapidly, going outward from that, your eyes deliver only blurs, blobs, and nothing out there has changed in a way I need to attend to since I last looked that way. Well, of course, you may be thinking, but we do look that way often. Fair enough: attention redirects the gaze quickly. There are saccades quick, frequent, automatic eye movements in identifying a face or reading a line of text. There are the smooth pursuit movements that follow a moving target, and the vestibulo-ocular firmware that compensates for movements of the head or body so that the visual world remains steady. Still, its a long way from the actual keyhole of sharp vision to our conscious impression of a fully detailed, panoramic visual field. What I remember is the excitement in Marrs eyes in thinking about tracing that real trick. But he died of leukemia just two years later, after finishing Vision: A Computational Investigation into the Human Representation and Processing of Visual Information. His short career was one of the most influential in the history of neuroscience. * Twenty years later, I read with fascination science writer Tor Norretranders The User Illusion, a translation of his 1991 Danish Mrk verden. The English title echoed a phrase originally used by Alan Kay and his colleagues at Xerox PARC in the 1970s as they developed software and user interfaces for microcomputers the nascent PCs and workstations. They created the desktop interface of files and folders that could be moved and stacked like paper, wastebaskets for deletion, calculator apps with a key layout like those of a handheld digital device (itself mimicking the layouts of hand-cranked desk calculators.) These visual and procedural metaphors have very little to do with the computers internal states and processes hence illusion. But as Apple and Windows would demonstrate, they have worked for millions, then billions. Norretranders book argued that our sensory and cognitive experience, their integration into consciousness, provides the same kind of useful, usable illusion. As he reported based on 1980s research, the senses generate on the order of 12 million bits per second of raw neural data 10 million bits from vision, 1 million from external touch and proprioception (your bodys position and muscle activity), and the remainder for all the other senses. But the brain activity associated with our stream of conscious thought seems to process fewer than 100 bits per second. That implies a wholesale filtering and discarding of detail. Get used to it: its bullet points and executive summaries all the way up. Consciousness evolved not to represent the environment as accurately as possible, but to help hominids live long and prosper by quick and dirty modeling of the environment and changes in it in three pounds of cellular jelly followed by quick, appropriate action in response. Often thats habitual, even unconscious and automatic action. Only after The User Illusion did I understand why Id recalled the exchange with Marr so often. He had happily turned inside out my curiosity about the blind spot, finding more wonder and challenge in how our flitting keyhole view comes to feel so broad and continuous. Cutting consciousness down to size is not a deprecation of consciousness, or advocacy of some other, better mode of apprehending the world. Its simply a recognition that while we take pride in consciousness as a vast collective library / museum / laboratory / playground of thought, at any given moment any given one of us wields a rather small flashlight in that vastness. * I n 2011, Daniel Kahnemans Thinking, Fast and Slow offered another encounter with the relations of conscious and not-conscious, how we think the mind works (or should) and how accumulating evidence tries to tell us it does. Kahneman, who died earlier this year, was trained as a psychologist, then did research on the cognitive mechanisms of attention. The best-known of his many collaborations was with Amos Tversky in the 1970s, when they studied the psychology of judgment and decision-making, designing simple, ingenious experiments to tease out how subjects made choices with incomplete or uncertain information. Many economists had been pursuing mathematically rigorous theories based on assumptions of ideally rational actors with complete information. They began to take notice of the anomalous choices and systematic errors that turned up in these experiments. By the 1980s, behavioral economics was emerging as a more evidence-driven and experimental counterweight. Kahneman would go on to important contributions in other areas of cognitive psychology, but it was this work that was cited in his 2002 Nobel Prize in economics, and is the main background for Thinking, Fast and Slow. In the book he posited System 1 thinking fast, often unconscious, heavily influenced by habit, stereotypes, and bias and System 2 thinking: slower, deliberate, guided by evidence and more or less articulated logic. His research on decision-making had shown that system 1 drives decisions more often than we like to acknowledge. System 2 is a relatively recent overlay, more cognitively costly and thus rarer, but can be fostered by education and the use of formal analysis and decision-making procedures. A striking feature of the public response to Thinking, Fast and Slow was how readily it was assimilated to self-help marketing. The cognitive biases (originally a neutral term of art) that Kahneman and Tversky had studied were reformatted in clickbait listicles: 7 Logical Traps Even Smart People Fall Into and 12 Ways Successful Leaders Make Better Decisions. Bias is a bad thing to be done away with, right? If we sign up for the right training, subscribe to the right podcasts, couldnt we become full-time System 2 superthinkers? I doubt it very much. Kahneman cited experimental demonstrations that System 2 depletes concentration and emotional energy as well as being too slow for full-time use. Like foveal vision, its a limited resource., We couldnt get through an ordinary day without hundreds of System 1 snap judgements that dont rise to the level of deliberate choice. Thats why System 1 exists: its an evolutionary and cultural legacy, a toolkit of quick responses that are certainly fallible but have worked well enough, often enough, to be built in. We can and should educate and train for System 2 thought, use information technology to gather and sort more relevant information, design protocols and checklists to be methodical for us. Still, we should also be realistic even humble? about how far and how fast its scope can be extended. Philosopher and educator Alfred North Whitehead saw the wry paradox more than a century ago: It is a profoundly erroneous truism, repeated by all copy-books and by eminent people when they are making speeches, that we should cultivate the habit of thinking about what we are doing. The precise opposite is the case. Civilization advances by extending the numbers of important operations which we can perform without thinking about them. Operations of thought are like cavalry charges in battle they are strictly limited in number, they require fresh horses, and must only be made at decisive moments. *** Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now. Dennis received bachelor's degrees in communication and political science with a TAG degree in Spanish from The University of Akron in Ohio. He grew up in Ohio with two sisters and two brothers, one being his fraternal twin. He and his wife have two dogs: Bacio, and Cal. Dennis currently covers natural resource and environmental issues for The Daily Sentinel Nathan graduated with his journalism degree from Auburn University in 2017. After growing up in the flatlands of rural Alabama with his parents and older sister, Nathan enjoys Western Colorado's natural resources and recreational opportunities. He currently covers education and business for The Daily Sentinel. Dec. 27 Those who come home for Christmas look forward to attending the EMB Christmas Program. This year it was Sunday night, Dec 22. The prelude, by Virgil Rauch, Brad Traeholt, Karen Fast and Eileen Traeholt, included C is for the Christ-Child, ... For the week of Dec. 24 through Dec. 28, there were 11 motor vehicle stops, one loose dog and two requests for public assist. Tuesday, Dec. 24 0202 Reporting party called about a suspicious male who is walking around and near peoples houses. As we... In what has become a holiday tradition for many families and friends, the Montana State University (MSU) Extension Office once again hosted their Gingerbread House Workshop on Dec. 20, held at the Glasgow Senior Citizens Center. MSU Extension County... A coroners inquest related to the 2023 death of Jonathan Ryan Hamilton was held on Dec. 16, at the Valley County Courthouse. According to law, the inquest is a formal inquiry into the causes and circumstances surrounding the death of a person and is... Finland discovers anchor 'dragging track' amid suspicions of Russian subsea sabotage By Henry Ridgwell December 30, 2024 Finnish authorities have discovered anchor drag marks running for several kilometers across the Baltic seabed as they probe the recent severing of important power and internet cables. "With the underwater operations, we have been able to identify the dragging track at the seabed from the beginning to the end," said Detective Chief Inspector Sami Paila of Finland's National Bureau of Investigation in a Sunday press release. "The track is dozens of kilometers in length. For the time being, the possible location where the anchor came off has not been established." The announcement marks the latest in a series of similar incidents in recent months and comes as NATO warns of a growing threat of unconventional Russian attacks in the region. The underwater Estlink 2 power cable linking Finland and Estonia was damaged last Wednesday, along with several data cables. Estonia's power supply was significantly reduced because of the damage. On Thursday, Finnish police and coast guard officers boarded the Eagle S, a Cook Islands-registered tanker carrying Russian oil from the port of Ust-Luga before sailing it into Finnish territorial waters. The vessel is currently being held off the town of Porvoo, 40 kilometers east of Helsinki. Its crew is being detained on suspicion of "aggravated criminal mischief." Russian officials have said nothing about the Finnish accusations or impounding of the Eagle S. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Pesokov said Friday, "I can't say anything for sure. This is a highly specific issue, which is hardly the prerogative of the presidential administration." Finnish President Alexander Stubb said on Friday it was too early to determine whether the damage was deliberate. "Four cables have been broken," Stubb told reporters in Helsinki. "We were able to get the situation under control and locate the ship in question, bring it to Finnish waters and begin a criminal proceeding. There has been substantial damage through the cables." Finland suspects the Eagle S is part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" of aging vessels used to evade Western sanctions on its oil exports, imposed in the wake of Moscow's February 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The damage to the Estlink 2 cable is the latest in a series of similar incidents in the Baltic Sea. In November, a Chinese bulk carrier, the Yi Peng 3, was suspected of severing two fiber-optic data cables in Swedish waters with its anchor. China refused to allow a Swedish prosecutor to board the vessel, which has since departed the Baltic. Last year, the Balticconnector gas pipeline linking Estonia and Finland was damaged. Ten months later, China said a Hong Kong-registered vessel had caused the damage in a storm. Finland was skeptical of the admission. Estonia has called for international maritime laws to be updated to protect infrastructure. "The situation that is now at the Baltic Sea, where the anchors have been dropping several times in a row it can't be by accident," Estonian Justice Minister Liisa Pakosta told Reuters. "These kinds of situations are not typical, not only for our region, but also for other regions in the world. So, [given] the technological developments that we have, we think that it is a good idea to look over international law to make these investigations more smooth." NATO said Friday it would boost its presence in the Baltic Sea. The alliance staged maritime drills in the Baltic earlier last month as a show of force amid escalating tensions with Moscow. However, formulating a response to unconventional also known as hybrid attacks is complex, said Charly Salonius-Pasternak, an analyst with the Finnish Institute of International Affairs. "If there begins to be clear attribution by states against other state actors, then just taking it on the chin and being resilient in the long run is going to be probably deeply unsatisfying," he told VOA. "[But] if you attribute it or you blame someone, will you intensify the circle? And what are you going to do about it? Because you clearly cannot use the same 'retributionary tools,' as it were, against Russia and China. At least not yet, I think." Estonian authorities said it could take until August to repair the damage to the Estlink 2 cable. The Estonian navy and Swedish coast guards have stepped up surveillance patrols in the area. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany Federal Foreign Office 28.12.2024 - Press release Twenty months after the outbreak of fighting, the Sudan is seeing humanitarian disaster on an almost immeasurable scale. In its latest report, published on 24 December, the Famine Review Committee, an international expert panel, states that the famine in the Sudan is worsening dramatically. Current data shows that more than 24.6 million people are suffering hunger, of whom over 8.1 million are confronted with extreme food insecurity, including many with acute malnutrition. 573,000 people are on the verge of starvation. The Famine Review Committee said back in August that parts of North Darfur were experiencing the world's first famine in seven years. It is profoundly shocking that the hunger crisis in the Sudan has spread even further since then. This disaster is entirely human-induced. The Famine Review Committee has for months pointed to two reasons for the famine: the ongoing fighting and the refusal of the parties to the conflict to allow humanitarian access. Both sides are using hunger as an instrument of war, accepting the possibility that many people might starve to death. Stopping cooperation with the mechanisms of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) designed to monitor food supplies, as announced by the Sudanese authorities on 25 December, is not the right way to tackle the crisis. We urgently appeal to the parties to the conflict, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to allow comprehensive access for all humanitarian organisations at last, and to support and protect their life-saving work, rather than impeding or even preventing it altogether. We call on both sides to respect international humanitarian law and at long last to silence their weapons. That is the only way to end the famine in the Sudan. Together with our partners, we will continue to do our utmost to provide the people in the Sudan and its neighbouring states with the basic necessities through humanitarian assistance and to ensure humanitarian access through humanitarian diplomacy. 'Not the new normal' - 2024 'one of the worst years in UNICEF's history' for children in conflict UNICEF 28 December 2024 NEW YORK, 28 December 2024 - The impact of armed conflicts on children around the world reached devastating and likely record levels in 2024, according to a review by UNICEF of the latest available data and prevailing global trends. More children than ever are estimated to be either living in conflict zones or forcibly displaced due to conflict and violence. A record number of children affected by conflict are having their rights violated, including being killed and injured[1], out of school, missing life-saving vaccines, and being critically malnourished. The number is only expected to grow. Conflict drives approximately 80 per cent of all humanitarian needs around the world[2], disrupting access to essentials, including safe water, food and healthcare. Over 473 million childrenmore than one in six globallynow live in areas affected by conflict[3], with the world experiencing the highest number of conflicts since World War II[4]. The percentage of the world's children living in conflict zones has doubledfrom around 10 per cent in the 1990s to almost 19 per cent today.[5] By the end of 2023, 47.2 million children had been displaced due to conflict and violence[6], with trends in 2024 indicating additional displacement due to the intensification of conflicts, including in Haiti, Lebanon, Myanmar, the State of Palestine, and Sudan. Children account for 30 per cent of the global population, yet on average account for roughly 40 per cent of refugee populations and 49 per cent of internally displaced people.[7] In countries affected by conflict, on average over a third of the population is poor (34.8 per cent) compared to just over 10 per cent in non-conflict-affected countries[8]. "By almost every measure, 2024 has been one of the worst years on record for children in conflict in UNICEF's historyboth in terms of the number of children affected and the level of impact on their lives," said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. "A child growing up in a conflict zone is far more likely to be out of school, malnourished, or forced from their hometoo often repeatedlycompared to a child living in places of peace. This must not be the new normal. We cannot allow a generation of children to become collateral damage to the world's unchecked wars." In the latest available data, from 2023, the United Nations verified a record 32,990 grave violations against 22,557 children[9]the highest number since Security Council-mandated monitoring began. With the overall upward trend in the number of grave violationsfor example, thousands of children have been killed and injured in Gaza, and in Ukraine, the UN verified more child casualties during the first 9 months of 2024 than during all of 2023[10]this year is likely to see another increase. The situation for women and girls is particularly concerning, with widespread reports of rape and sexual violence in conflict settings. In Haiti, so far this year, there has been a 1,000 per cent increase in reported incidents of sexual violence against children.[11] In situations of armed conflict, children with disabilities also tend to be disproportionately exposed to violence and rights violations. Education has been severely disrupted in conflict zones. More than 52 million children in countries affected by conflict are estimated to be out of school. Children in the Gaza Strip, and a significant portion of children in Sudan, have missed out on more than a year of school, while in countries such as Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Syria, schools have been damaged, destroyed or repurposed, leaving millions of children without access to learning. The destruction of educational infrastructure and insecurity near schools have exacerbated an already dire situation for children's education in these regions. Malnutrition among children in conflict zones has also risen to alarming levels, as conflict and armed violence continue to be the primary drivers of hunger in numerous hotspots, disrupting food systems, displacing populations, and obstructing humanitarian access. For example, in Sudan, famine conditions were determined in North Darfur, the first famine determination since 2017. In 2024, more than half a million people in five conflict-affected countries are estimated to be living in IPC* Phase 5 conditions, the most extreme food insecurity situations.[12] Conflicts are also having devastating effect on children's access to critical healthcare. Around forty per cent of un- and under-vaccinated children live in countries that are either partially or entirely affected by conflict.[13] These children are often the most vulnerable to disease outbreaks like measles and polio, because of disruptions and lack of access to security, nutrition, and health services. The impact on children's mental health is also huge. Exposure to violence, destruction and loss of loved ones can manifest in children through reactions such as depression, nightmares and difficulty sleeping, aggressive or withdrawn behaviour, sadness and fear, among others. 2024 has become the deadliest on record for humanitarian personnel, with the recorded deaths of 281 aid workers globally, surpassing previous records.[14] "Children in war zones face a daily struggle for survival that deprives them of a childhood," said Russell. "Their schools are bombed, homes destroyed, and families torn apart. They lose not only their safety and access to basic life-sustaining necessities, but also their chance to play, to learn, and to simply be children. The world is failing these children. As we look towards 2025, we must do more to turn the tide and save and improve the lives of children. " UNICEF is calling for all parties to conflict, and for those with influence over them, to take decisive action to end the suffering of children, to ensure their rights are upheld, and to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law. ##### [1] Secretary-General Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict [2] The World Bank, World Bank Group Strategy for Fragility, Conflict, and Violence 2020-2025, World Bank, February 2020 [3] PRIO [4] Global Peace Index [5] PRIO [6] https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-migration-and-displacement/displacement/ [7] UNHCR Global Trends Report [8] https://www.undp.org/libya/press-releases/11-billion-people-live-multidimensional-poverty-nearly-half-billion-these-live-conflict-settings [9] https://childrenandarmedconflict.un.org/2024/06/2023-alarming-levels-of-violence-inflicted-on-children-in-situation-of-armed-conflict [10] https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/unicef-executive-director-catherine-russells-remarks-united-nations-security-0 [11] https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/remarks-unicef-executive-director-catherine-russell-ecosoc-special-session-haiti [12] https://www.ipcinfo.org/ipcinfo-website/ipc-dashboard/en/ [13] https://www.unicef.org/immunization/immunization-and-conflict [14] https://www.unocha.org/news/un-relief-chief-decries-bullets-and-bombs-against-aid-workers NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Navy Statements on Passing of President Jimmy Carter US Navy - Press Release 29 December 2024 WASHINGTON - Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti released statements on the death of President and Navy veteran James Earl 'Jimmy' Carter Jr. who died Dec. 29 at age 100. Statement by Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro: "On behalf of our Sailors, Marines, and Department of the Navy Civilians, I express my deepest condolences to the Carter Family for the loss of a respected public servant, committed family man and devoted American. President Carter will always be remembered for his dedication to the greater good, from his early days in the U.S. Navy, to his terms in office as the 76th Governor of Georgia and 39th President of the United States, to his continued philanthropy and volunteer activities. In October, I announced that the future Virginia-class submarine (SSN-813) will be named USS Atlanta during a ceremony at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum. His legacy lives on through Seawolf-class submarine USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum in Atlanta, and his countless incentives focused on improving the quality of life for people across the globe. His legacy will also shine where his naval career started in Annapolis, where I had the privilege of renaming an academic building at the United States Naval Academy in honor of President Carter. President Carter's servant leadership and enduring commitment to the well-being of others will continue to inspire me and others around the world. My wife Betty and I extend our deepest condolences to their children Amy, Jack, Donnel and James; their grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and the entire Carter Family during this time of grieving." Statement by Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Lisa Franchetti: "Today we mourn the loss of a shipmate as we celebrate and honor the life and memory of an exemplary public servant and patriot, President Jimmy Carter, who earned our admiration with his courage and won our hearts with his compassion. From humble beginnings on a peanut farm in Georgia, he began his adult life in the Navy, entering the Naval Academy during World War II. He said that his naval service prepared him for the rest of his life, instilling courage, self-sacrifice, idealism, and self-discipline which would combine to form his moral core. Throughout his life, he was guided by his unshakeable conviction that, "an individual is not swept along on a tide of inevitability but can influence even the greatest human events." His legacy and beliefs are imbued in the Sailors that set sail aboard the USS Jimmy Carter and walk the halls of the newly renamed Carter Hall at the United States Naval Academy. President Carter's life of service will continue to be an example for us and help us navigate our course. His work is finished, but the U.S. Navy's work continues. President Carter, we have the watch." President Jimmy Carter served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977-1981. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1946 and served as a submariner from 1946-1953 when he left active duty service as a lieutenant and continued his service as a reservist until 1961. The Seawolf-class submarine USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23) and the newly renamed Carter Hall at the United States Naval Academy are named after him. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SETAF-AF, joint forces prepare for exercise Judicious Response 2025 By Sgt. 1st Class Solomon Navarro December 30, 2024 VICENZA, Italy -- U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), hosted a pre-exercise planning event at Caserma Del Din, Nov. 18-22, bringing together U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps elements to refine joint planning and coordination in preparation for exercise Judicious Response 2025, a multinational crisis-response exercise scheduled for next year. The event provided a critical opportunity for participants to sharpen their crisis action planning skills in a structured yet dynamic environment. "Judicious Response-2 provided an exceptional opportunity for field grade leaders to develop their crisis action planning competency," said U.S. Army Col. Ranjini Danaraj, director of operations, SETAF-AF. "This exercise allowed us to baseline the staff on expectations for how we organize, analyze and present in an effective manner." The pre-exercise also emphasized the critical role of integrating capabilities across the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps to strengthen joint crisis-response strategies. For the Navy, the focus was on maritime operations, ensuring the security of surrounding waters to support potential evacuation efforts. "This event highlights the strength of our joint force, combining maritime, air and ground capabilities to prepare for complex scenarios," said U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Emmanuel Ehima, U.S. Navy Europe and Africa under the Sixth Fleet. Ehima underscored the importance of joint collaboration in refining operational plans and ensuring readiness for real-world crises. SETAF-AF's strategic role in fostering joint force cooperation was central to the event, reflecting its position as a cornerstone of U.S. Africa Command's mission. Acting as a liaison among service components, SETAF-AF provides the logistical and operational frameworks necessary to synchronize efforts across the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. "These foundations are critical to unified responses in Africa, particularly through exercises like Judicious Response," said U.S. Army Maj. Elijah Lloyd, a planning officer with SETAF-AF. "Working together with our sister services during the pre-exercise ensures we are aligned and ready to operate as a cohesive joint force headquarters." The pre-exercise event showcased the importance of joint force collaboration in addressing complex global challenges. By refining planning and coordination, SETAF-AF and its partners have laid the groundwork for a successful Judicious Response 2025, demonstrating the strength of integrated U.S. military capabilities in ensuring regional stability and readiness. Danaraj also emphasized the value of the intellectual challenge and urgency inherent in crisis situations, noting the tangible outcomes and constructive feedback the team experienced during the event. "I try to emphasize with the team that the majority of what I've done the last 10 years of my career are crisis operations, so being able to manage this process at the pace of relevancy is a professional imperative," she said. "More often than not, there are tangible results and feedback on the outcomes of your efforts, and I think the team experienced that in a very constructive environment last week." About Exercise Judicious Response Exercise Judicious Response is a U.S. Africa Command-led multinational crisis-response exercise designed to enhance operational readiness, strengthen defense partnerships and improve joint force integration. Initially conducted as a command post exercise in Stuttgart, Germany, Judicious Response has evolved to include live planning and operational components, with its first African iteration in 2019. The exercise prepares U.S. and allied forces to respond to complex scenarios, such as political instability or humanitarian crises, while fostering cooperation among partner nations and military services. About SETAF-AF SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SETAF-AF civil affairs team strengthens security cooperation in Mauritania By PHILIP REGINA December 30, 2024 NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania -- A team of U.S. Army Civil Affairs Soldiers from the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne), 360th Civil Affairs Brigade, 352nd Civil Affairs Command, deployed in support of U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), is currently conducting civil affairs activities across the African continent. U.S. Army Capt. Marcus Molina, Sgt. 1st Class Eric Ambert, Sgt. Jean Boizan, and Sgt. Nicholas Macia, all mobilized U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers, have been deployed for nine months, primarily operating out of Djibouti. They conduct operations across Africa, but in their latest engagement, these soldiers worked closely with Armee Nationale Mauritanienne [Armed Forces of Mauritania] counterparts to build partnership and mutual understanding of civil affairs activities. These are key aspects of SETAF-AF's mission to enhance regional stability through security cooperation. SETAF-AF's theater security cooperation initiatives play a vital role on behalf of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). "This mission is a real-time culmination of our education and experience, blending the art and science of collaboration to find solutions across diverse backgrounds," said Molina. "Working with our Mauritanian partners has underscored the value of adaptability and cultural understanding in achieving shared goals, strengthening both our partnerships and our ability to tackle complex challenges." As part of the SETAF-AF theater security cooperation framework, this civil affairs team helps build relationships and contributes to local capacity building. "It's not just about doing our job as soldiers, it's about connecting with people, understanding their needs and finding practical solutions that work for them," said Ambert. The deployment also provides these soldiers with the chance to expand their cultural awareness and strengthen U.S. ties in the region. "We've learned so much from the communities we've worked with," said Boizan. "Every mission is a chance to build trust, learn about the local culture and develop lasting relationships that go beyond the immediate task." Adaptability is crucial in the often-unpredictable environments in which the team operates. "Every day brings something new," added Macia. "Whether we're addressing infrastructure needs or assisting with local governance issues, we have to be ready to shift gears and find solutions that work in the moment." Through their ongoing deployment in support of SETAF-AF's civil affairs mission, these soldiers play an essential role in advancing the AFRICOM's security cooperation goals across Africa. By blending military expertise with cultural understanding, they strengthen partnerships and contribute to long-term regional stability. About SETAF-AF SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Army leads professional military exchange in the Central African Republic By Capt. Billy Lacroix December 30, 2024 BANGUI, Central African Republic -- U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) recently conducted a professional military exchange with the Armed Forces of the Central African Republic (FACA) from Dec. 3-7. This engagement, co-led by U.S. Africa Command's (AFRICOM) Inspector General (IG) Col. Valentin Maldonado and SETAF-AF's IG Lt. Col. Benjamin Barrett, aimed to strengthen military oversight, enhance readiness and promote transparency within military operations. The exchange, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Bangui and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), provided a platform for discussions on topics ranging from the U.S. IG system and law of armed conflict (LOAC) to anti-corruption efforts and effective military governance. "This exchange reflects our commitment to fostering transparency, accountability and professionalism," Barrett said. "Through collaborative efforts like these, we can strengthen partnerships and build a foundation of trust that is critical for security and stability." The event marked a significant milestone for SETAF-AF, as it was the first time U.S. and Central African Republic (CAR) military leaders met to establish direct relationships. Discussions included key leaders from the CAR Ministry of Defense, the U.S. Embassy, and MINUSCA's Security Sector Reform (SSR) division, creating an opportunity to share lessons learned and best practices. "I would like to thank the Minister of Defence for giving us the time for this hearing. I am really proud to hold this military exchange between AFRICOM and the Office of the General Inspectorate of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) said Ms. Patricia Mahoney, U.S. Ambassador to the Central African Republic. CAR Minister of Defense, Claude Rameaux Bireau, expressed gratitude for the engagement, highlighting its importance in improving military oversight and fostering collaboration between the U.S. and CAR. "The CAR has very good relations with the United States. The Army inspectorate came to exchange experiences with the General Inspectorate of the National Army. Today, with an army of the world's leading power, the General Inspectorate of the National Army will be inspired by the experience of an old army and I believe that it will improve its performance." said Bireau. SETAF-AF's IG and Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) offices presented the U.S. Army's IG model as a tool for maintaining good order and discipline, promoting trust and enhancing overall readiness. The SJA team, led by U.S. Army Capt. Charles Blanton, focused on LOAC, military investigations and the relationship between the IG and legal systems. "We emphasized how the IG system can serve as a cornerstone for accountability," Blanton noted. "By fostering cooperation between military oversight and legal systems, we can build a more transparent and effective defense framework." The exchange also provided a forum to address challenges unique to the CAR, including rebuilding military governance structures after years of conflict. Participants discussed the importance of leadership support in advancing reforms, with an emphasis on fostering cooperation between the IG and SJA offices to combat corruption and strengthen institutional trust. The exchange included a series of discussions and meetings with stakeholders such as U.S. Ambassador Mahoney, CAR IG Gen. Bruno Izamo and MINUSCA's SSR division led by Carole Baudoin. These interactions offered a holistic view of CAR's military and governance challenges, as well as opportunities for future collaboration. "This event has set the stage for further cooperation," Barrett said. "It's a step forward in aligning our efforts to enhance regional security and promote the rule of law." Future engagements are already being planned to build on the progress made during this exchange. Recommendations include extending the duration of future events to include regional partners such as Senegal and Rwanda, fostering a unified approach to military oversight and governance across Africa. Izamo expressed optimism about the partnership, noting the potential for long-term benefits specific to CAR's IG office, as well as throughout FACA and the region as a whole. "This collaboration strengthens our ability to address internal challenges while aligning with international standards," Izamo said. About SETAF-AF SETAF-AF provides U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Army Europe and Africa a dedicated headquarters to synchronize Army activities in Africa and scalable crisis-response options in Africa and Europe. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address December 30, 2024 Transcript Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Hosts Press Gaggle DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SABRINA SINGH: Hello to our small group. Happy holidays, everyone. I hope everyone had some time off with friends and family. I think we can keep this pretty short. I just want to take any questions and then just a few things at the top. So today we announced significant new security assistance for Ukraine, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. This includes a $1.25 billion Presidential Drawdown Authority package and an additional $1.22 billion through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Together, these packages deliver critical capabilities such as air defense systems, munitions for artillery and rocket systems, anti-tank weapons, unmanned aerial systems and more. This marks the administration's 73rd drawdown package and 23rd USAI package since August 2021, reflecting our continued efforts with our over 50 allies and partners through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to be successful on the battlefield and to defend its sovereignty. Lastly, the secretary along with the entire Department of Defense mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter at age 100, a principal leader of America's longest lived president and a great son of Georgia, US naval officer and steadfast champion of human rights and democratic ideals. And with that, I'm happy to take your questions. I don't see AP. All right. Q: Just on Syria. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Sure. Q: Is the US military still carrying out those partnered operations or whatever they were called with the SDF since the overthrow of Assad, or have you paused those? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: There's been no change to our partnership with the SDF. In terms of partnered raids, I'd refer you to CENTCOM to speak to when the most recent one was. I just don't have that. But as you know, we have been conducting various strikes against ISIS leaders, but in terms of our partnership with SDF, nothing has changed there. Q: Have you seen the SDF move folks who were protecting the prisons to focus on some other parts? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: In terms of in that eastern part, in Syria? Q: Yeah. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: I don't have any changes that I'm aware of but refer you to the SDF to speak more to that. Haley. Q: Thanks. Can you give us an update on transition meetings, like how many of those have happened? Are they here? Have they been here frequently, a couple times, every day, like, just kind of with what regularity those are happening? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: There have been pretty regular transition meetings. Obviously, with the holidays, there haven't been those during the Christmas holidays, but I think as recently as this Friday, there were meetings. We're continuing to schedule those as needed, continuing to--we're committed to an orderly smooth transition. I don't have the exact number of meetings that there have been, but I think every department has met with the transition team at this point. Q: And to your knowledge that other memorandum, the MOU hasn't been signed yet still, right, the GSA? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: That one, I would refer you to the Trump transition team to speak to that, but to my knowledge, that's the one that's outstanding. Yeah. Sure. Q: Do you have any update North Korea troops in Russia, how many casualties, something like that? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: In terms of uh North Koreans in in Russia, you probably heard that the white House recently announced that approximately 1,000 DPRK soldiers have either been killed or wounded in the Kursk region. That's our assessment as well. What we're seeing right now is that the assaults that the DPRK soldiers are launching within that Kursk region are proving to be that effective. I mean, they're taking on significant amount of casualties. I don't want to get into a commitment that we're going to read out numbers every time we have something um to share. But our estimate is that it's approximately 1,000 casualties that they've taken on. Q: Any indication that North Korea sent more troops? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: At this time, I think what we said is that they've committed approximately 12,000 troops, certainly a deepening of an alliance there between Russia and North Korea. Can't say that we're seeing more being sent, but that doesn't mean that they won't send more in the future. But I can only share with you what we know right now, and that's what we've said publicly. Yeah, Constantine. Q: Thanks, Sabrina. Any update on the Navy downing its own F/A-18? Are you able to offer any new details on that? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: I don't have any new details to offer on that. As you know, it's under investigation and that's continuing on. So nothing new right now. Q: OK. Thank you. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Yeah. Q: Sabrina, any general assessment of the situation in northeast Syria? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Can you be more specific? Q: While we have clashes in between our partners and the other militias pro-turkey, we have sometimes some clashes in between the Turks and the SDF themselves. I believe we increased the number of our soldiers also in the area. I want to understand how you see the situation northeast? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: I'm not tracking any increase in US personnel outside of what we already have in Syria. That being said, I mean there is a ceasefire that is still holding in the northern part of Syria. And we're going to continue to monitor that, but we're still focused on the mission that's in Syria, which is to ensure the defeat of ISIS. And to Haley's question, that is ongoing with, or sorry, to Idris's question, that is ongoing with our SDF partners. Q: Are we discussing with the Turks the role of the SDF in northeast Syria? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: I'm not going to go beyond the readout that we put out from the secretary's call with his counterpart of Turkey, only to say that we're going to continue to engage, and the ceasefire is holding in that northern part of Syria. I saw another hand. Q: Yes, I have two questions. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Yeah. Q: On a related point, the HTS led government has said that all arms need to come under central government or Damascus control, and they've even set deadlines. Could you just talk a little bit about what the US government position is about the SDF sort of equity in that statement, like whether or not they should surrender their arms, whether or not they should demobilize and become part of a central government force? And then I have another question. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Sure. So I think you saw right before the holiday, we had folks from the State Department and others in Syria, engaging HTS leadership there. I don't have more to provide beyond those conversations. In terms of SDF, and the role within the new Syrian government, I think what the new Syrian government looks like, there's a lot that remains to be seen. And it's still, even though I think it's probably been about a month now since the fall of Assad or around there, we're still in the new phases, so I just don't want to get ahead of that process just yet. And then you had a second question. Q: My second question was, and forgive me if I missed this, has the Defense Department appealed the decision regarding the plea deal for the 9/11 people. Has that happened? I know that there was an intent to appeal, but did the actual appeal happen. Because the-- DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Sorry, just because there's been so many back and forths on the legal process of that. Q: There's supposed to be hearings in January that were scheduled before the intent to appeal was announced and they're still scheduled as far as I know. So I just wondered whether or not there actually has been an appeal? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Let me take that question in terms of if an official appeal has actually been made. Q: Thank you. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Yeah. Q: We don't have a new SecDef yet, but once we do, do you know if Secretary Austin intends to brief the new SecDef on what he sees as the value of the Ukraine contact group and how he thinks it's been a success? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: If there's a requested conversation, but I think there are many people within this department who will continue on in their career civilian roles and of course military roles as well, that have supported and understand the importance of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. I can only speak on behalf of this administration and the secretary and that the UDCG continues to be a convening forum to work with allies and partners and providing Ukraine with what it needs and working together as multiple countries literally come around the table. What the incoming administration intends to do with the UDCG, I'm just not going to be able to speak for it. But should you know the incoming secretary request a conversation, I'm sure there will be one. Did I see one more and then? No? OK. Constantine, and then we can wrap up for the shortest gaggle before the end of the year. Q: Just to round it out. DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: Sure. Q: Last week there were images and reports of a new fighter jet from China. Is the Pentagon tracking these reports and do you have a comment? DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SINGH: I saw those reports. I don't have anything for you on that right now. All right. Thanks, everyone. https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/4018066/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address December 30, 2024 By David Vergun, DOD News Austin, Biden Laud Former President Carter's Leadership, Humanity Former President Jimmy Carter died yesterday at his home in Plains, Georgia at age 100. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, in a statement yesterday, called Carter a "principled leader" and "a steadfast champion of human rights and democratic ideals." Americans will remember Carter for his leadership in office and his distinguished post-presidency, but the Defense Department also honors his sterling service in uniform, Austin said. Before Carter was governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975 and then president from 1977 to 1981, he served in the Navy on active duty from 1946 to 1953 and in the reserves from 1953 to 1961, attaining the rank of lieutenant. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, Carter completed two years of surface-ship duty before working on submarines. He was selected to develop nuclear-powered submarines and served on the first U.S. submarine built since World War II, Austin noted. In 2005, the USS Jimmy Carter a nuclear-powered submarine was commissioned in his honor, and in 2023, Building 105 at the U.S. Naval Academy was renamed Carter Hall, the secretary said. Carter also contributed to global security, Austin said, noting his role in working to strengthen NATO and other alliances. He also issued the Carter Doctrine, which specified that the U.S. would use military force, if necessary, to ensure stability and security in the Persian Gulf. The president also established diplomatic relations with China and brokered peace between Israel and Egypt, the secretary said. After his White House tenure ended, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, founded the Carter Center and worked tirelessly to build homes for the poor, fight disease and expand economic opportunity, Austin noted. "President Carter's lifelong leadership and deep faith will continue to inspire Americans and people around the world," Austin said. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden in a statement yesterday said, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted and changed the lives of people all across the globe. He was a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism," per the statement. In a proclamation issued yesterday, Biden said, "Carter was a man of character, courage and compassion, whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential statesmen in our history. He embodied the very best of America: A humble servant of God and the people, a heroic champion of global peace and human rights, and an honorable leader whose moral clarity and hopeful vision lifted our nation and changed our world." After his father died, Carter returned home to Plains, to help manage his family's peanut farm. He worked hard stewarding the land while leading his community as a church deacon, Sunday school teacher and board member of a hospital and library. His deep faith inspired a passion for public service, per the proclamation. Biden proclaimed Jan. 9 as a national day of mourning and ordered flags of the United States lowered to half-staff for 30 days from the day of Carter's death. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah: Israel will not have free rein in Lebanon IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Hezbollah's representative in Lebanon's parliament has warned that Israel's continued violations of the ceasefire agreement will not persist, emphasizing that the resistance knows how to respond. Hassan Fadlallah stated on Monday that the group's approach to defending Lebanon remains resolute. "The outcome of entrusting the south to UNIFIL and official institutions to fulfill their responsibilities is now clear," Fadlallah said, according to SAMA news agency. Hezbollah, he stressed, remains committed to the ceasefire agreement, but will not tolerate a prolonged situation where Israel undermines Lebanon's sovereignty. The enemy cannot achieve in peacetime what it failed to accomplish in war, he declared, referencing the sacrifices made by Hezbollah fighters to thwart Israeli occupation. Fadlallah also responded to demands from domestic and international actors urging Hezbollah to rely on state and international mechanisms, reminding them that they only have a 60-day time to prove their claims in practice. The remarks followed a report in the Israeli daily Israel Hayom, which suggested that Israel is contemplating keeping military forces stationed in parts of southern Lebanon even after the 60-day timeline stipulated in the agreement expires. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah thanks Supreme Leader for continued support IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Deputy Head of Hezbollah Executive Council, Sheikh Ali Daamoush, has expressed gratitude to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, for his ongoing support for Lebanon. Sheikh Daamoush expressed his gratitude for the support that the Iranian people have shown towards the Lebanese people, adding, "Thanks to the esteemed people of Iran, who have unanimously agreed to support the Lebanese people, the necessary funds will be provided," as reported by Lebanon's Al-Manar TV Network on Monday. He also thanked the Iraqi government, the nation, and the authorities in Najaf, as well as the holy shrines of Iraq and Iran, for their support of the Lebanese people, noting, "The 'Promise and Commitment' campaign has been initiated thanks to your collaboration and efforts, and it will be completed with your continued support." In his address to the Lebanese people, he stated, "We will fulfill the promise of our martyr, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the plans of Sayyed Safi al-Din, and the commitments of our secretary-general. You will return to your homes, which will be more beautiful than ever before." 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel continues to pound Gaza as war enters its 451st day IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli regime is pressing ahead with its attacks on Gaza as the war on the Palestinian enclave enters its 451st day, leaving more civilians dead and injured. Dozens of Palestinians are killed or injured on a daily basis in Gaza where relentless airstrikes hit different areas including centers sheltering the displaced people, London-based news outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, also known as The New Arab, reported on Monday. The war continues in Gaza as ceasefire negotiations remain stalled, with the Hamas Resistance Movement blaming the deadlock on the Israeli regime. "The enemy disrupts the negotiations at every stage and does not accept the agreements made. The enemy is not ready to completely withdraw from Gaza and stop the war, and insists on this issue," Senior Hamas Official Osama Hamdan told Al-Aqsa Network. Hamdan said that Hamas has shown flexibility regarding the release of the Israeli captives in return for a cessation of hostilities, the Israeli military's complete withdrawal from Gaza, as well as aid delivery and reconstruction there. Hamas also consulted with mediators, Turkiye and other parties to gain a global position in order to compel the Israeli regime to stop the war, he added. 6125**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas uses Israeli drone to target Zionist settlements IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Some Zionist sources have admitted that the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, have seized an Israeli drone and launched it toward Zionist settlements. According to Palestine's Shahab news agency on Monday, Zionist sources said that the Al-Qassam Brigades succeeded in taking control of an Israeli drone and subsequently launched it at Zionist settlements surrounding the Gaza Strip. The report indicated that the regime's army had not mentioned this incident before it was made public; then, a spokesperson for the Zionist army admitted to this event in statements. The Al-Qassam Brigades also announced that in two operations in the Al-Nuseirat refugee camp, they destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank and shot down one of the regime's drones. It also released a video showing the destruction of an Israeli Merkava tank and an Evo Max drone belonging to the occupiers in the Al-Nuseirat camp, located in central Gaza. The Hamas military wing emphasized that one of their fighters was able to detonate an improvised explosive device at a close range among a group of occupying forces in northern Gaza. It is worth mentioning that after 451 days of war, the Israeli regime has still not achieved its objectives of destroying the Hamas movement and returning the Zionist captives from Gaza. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WHO calls for end of Israel's attacks on Gaza hospitals IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a halt to the Israeli regime's attacks on hospitals in the Gaza Strip. On his X account on Monday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also called for access to humanitarian aid in Gaza. "Hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds and the health system is under severe threat," Adhanom said. "Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is out of service following the raid, forced patient and staff evacuation and the detention of its director, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya two days ago. His whereabouts are unknown. We call for his immediate release. "We urge Israel to ensure their health care needs and rights are upheld." According to the latest report from the Health Ministry of Palestine, over 45,500 Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war in the Strip in October 2023. 1483**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 13 anti-Israel operations in 10 days, says Yemen's Ansarullah IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Yemen's Ansarullah Movement says it has carried out 13 military operations against Israel targets in the occupied Palestinian territories over the past 10 days. According to IRNA, citing media sources, the group said in a statement that these attacks were in line with support for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and in response to the regime's aggression against Yemen.\ Yahya Saree, the Yemeni Armed Forces spokesman was cited by media as saying that most of these operations targeted the Tel Aviv region in central Israel. According to Saree, these attacks were carried out from December 19 to 29.On Saturday, Ansarullah also targeted the Navatim Air Base in southern Israel, in the Negev region, with a "Palestine 2" type hypersonic ballistic missile, which the resistance group said was successful. Earlier on Friday, it was announced that Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv was targeted again with a hypersonic missile prompting the airport to shut down and cancel all flights. The Yemeni army said the attack was in response to Israeli airstrikes on Sana'a and Hudaydah in the past few days.Yemeni armed forces have threatened to expand their range of targets in Israel and to respond with countermeasures to any escalation by Tel Aviv. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Efforts to maintain Gaza health system wasted: WHO IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed pessimism over the situation in Gaza, saying all the organization's efforts to maintain the health system in the Palestinian territory have been wasted amid Israeli bombing and shelling of medical facilities. Margaret Harris, spokesperson for WHO made the remarks on Sunday night, two days after the new crime of the Zionist regime in setting fire to Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. According to IRNA, citing Palestine Al-Youm, Harris said that a WHO team will soon be dispatched to assess the urgent needs in Gaza and identify the shortage of hospital equipment. Any attack on hospitals, medical staff and patients is unacceptable and condemned, she added. 50 Palestinians, including five medical staff, were martyred after the Zionist soldiers set fire to the hospital last week, prompting international condemnations. The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip announced that the Zionist forces had surrounded the hospital before setting it ablaze. Meanwhile, the Hamas resistance movement called it an act of war crime that was carried out in the shadow of the indifference of the international community and the complete complicity of the United States with the occupying regime. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 40 soldiers killed in Gaza since October: Israeli army IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli army has confirmed the killing of 40 of its soldiers during the offensive the regime launched in the north of the besieged Gaza Strip in the past three months. According to the army radio, these soldiers were killed in the Jabalia area of northern Gaza where the Zionist military has maintained its crippling siege for weeks and keep pounding the area relentlessly with air and artillery strikes. The Israeli media also admitted that two soldiers were also killed in clashes in the Gaza Strip on Sunday (29 December). One of the slain soldiers was Yuval Shoham, who served in the 9th Battalion of the 401st Armored Brigade, according to The Times of Israel. The latest fatalities bring to 40 the number of Zionist military personnel killed since the start of the attack on Jabalia on October 5. The Israeli media also announced that another soldier from the Nahal Brigade of the regime's army was seriously injured during the ongoing clashes with resistance fighters in the northern Strip. According to The Times of Israel, the regime has lost at least 394 soldiers, including several commanders since the ground offensive was launched against Gaza. The Zionist military has so far confirmed the killing of some 820 troops since the Palestinian resistance launched the Al-Aqsa Strom operation on October 7, 2023. The army does not say how they were killed and has placed strict censorship on losses inflicted by resistance fighters. The Zionist newspaper Haaretz revealed recently the killing of 235 soldiers from Israel's 162nd Armored Division. The same report said that 5,000 Israeli soldiers have also been injured since the beginning of the war on Gaza. Palestinian resistance groups say that the fatalities are much higher as the Israeli regime maintains strict censorship and does not release the real figures of its military casualties amid fear of public discontent over the war. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah thanks Leader for supporting Lebanon Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 8:38 PM Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement has expressed its gratitude towards Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei for leveling support behind the country's reconstruction efforts. Sheikh Ali Damush, head of the movement's Executive Council, made the remarks on Monday, saying, "We voice our gratitude towards Iran, Iraq, and countries that seek to help Lebanon's reconstruction." He denounced those, who had tried to tarnish the group's bid to compensate the victims of the Israeli regime's intensified deadly attacks against the country by alleging that the movement did not intend to pay out the restoration fees. Damoush said these individuals were disillusioned after pinning their hopes on Hezbollah's failure to compensate the victims. "But it was Hezbollah that rose up from the ruins so it would remedy the Lebanese people's wounds." The official asserted that the movement would rebuild the destruction on the back of the blessed blood of its martyrs and the strong arms of the resistance's fighters. He reminded that the priority concerning the rebuilding process lied with the families, who had had their houses either completely or partially destroyed during the war, especially those dwelling in Lebanon's border villages. The group would endeavor towards completing the restoration process so the families would be able to return to their residences at the earliest opportunity. According to the official, "The resistance would succeed in completing the rebuilding process in the same way that it triumphed over Lebanon's Israeli invaders." Damoush said his group rose up from the war's embers so it would prove that its promises to the Lebanese people were true. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli forces abduct Gaza hospital's patients, personnel during transfer: Health ministry Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 11:18 AM The Israeli regime's forces have abducted four patients who were being transferred from the Indonesian Hospital to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, according to Gaza's health ministry. In a statement on Sunday, the health ministry said a total of 10 patients were in transit when the abductions occurred, adding that the remaining six patients, along with 10 medical staff, remain at the Indonesian Hospital under dire conditions. The ministry also condemned the incident, highlighting the worsening humanitarian crisis as Israeli actions continue to target Gaza's already overwhelmed healthcare system. In recent days, the regime forces have intensified the week-long siege of Kamal Adwan Hospital, the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahiya, and the al-Awda Hospital in Jabalia refugee camp. On Friday, the Israeli regime's forces removed medical staff, and patients from Kamal Adwan Hospital at gunpoint and transferred them to the damaged Indonesian Hospital. Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, was also arrested and taken to an interrogation center. "The Israeli military conducted field executions in [the hospital's] vicinity", the Ministry added. The Israeli regime's army issued a statement confirming it launched a raid on the Kamal Adwan Hospital, falsely claiming that the medical facility "serve[d] as a Hamas stronghold in northern Gaza". MedGlobal, a humanitarian NGO providing healthcare in disaster areas, and the World Health Organization said that they were "appalled" by the raids on the hospitals. The Ministry of Health in Gaza has called on international organizations to intervene urgently to address the patients' critical needs. Furthermore, the regime has begun shelling the Baptist Hospital, the last functioning hospital in northern Gaza. This is while a harsh winter has enveloped the region and the weather reaches as low as -10 degrees Celsius at night. In the last week alone five newborn babies have died from lack of access to medical care and hypothermia. Since October 2023, the Israeli regime's genocidal war against the Palestinian people has claimed the lives of more than 45,000 and injured 107,000 individuals, most of whom are children and women. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WHO calls for end to Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 10:50 AM The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for an end to deadly Israeli attacks on hospitals in the Gaza Strip, where the health system has collapsed due to a genocidal war. In an X post on Monday, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus renewed his call for a Gaza ceasefire after the Israeli military targeted the al-Ahli Arab and al-Wafaa hospitals in Gaza City, killing seven people in the latter. "Hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds and the health system is under severe threat," he said. "We repeat: stop attacks on hospitals. People in Gaza need access to health care. Humanitarians need access to provide health aid. Ceasefire!" On Friday, Israeli forces stormed the Kamal Adwan hospital in Gaza's northern city of Beit Lahia, set fire to the facility, and detained more than 240 people, including dozens of medical staff, among them its director Dr. Hussam Abu Safia. The violent raid shut down the last major functioning health facility in northern Gaza and forced the displacement of patients and medics. The WHO chief called for the immediate release of Abu Safia, whose whereabouts are unknown. He also noted that the critical patients at the Kamal Adwan Hospital were moved to the Indonesian Hospital which is itself out of function. The WHO and partners had delivered basic medical supplies, food and water to the Indonesian hospital in Beit Lahia and transferred 10 critical patients to al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, he said, adding that four patients were detained during the transfer. "We urge Israel to ensure their health care needs and rights are upheld," Ghebreyesus said. "Seven patients along with 15 caregivers and health workers remain at the severely damaged Indonesian Hospital, which has no ability to provide care." Israel launched its brutal Gaza onslaught on October 7, 2023, after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out a historic operation against the usurping entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the occupying regime has killed at least 45,514 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 108,189 others, in the besieged territory. During its bloody onslaught, Israel has targeted Gaza's civilian facilities, including hospitals, in blatant violation of international law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel must pull out of entire Lebanon: Parl. Speaker Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 10:36 AM Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri demands that the Israeli regime commit to the terms of the ceasefire deal that supposedly stopped its intensified deadly aggression against Beirut last month after killing thousands of innocent civilians. The official made the remarks to Lebanon's An-Nahar daily on Monday regarding the regime's recurrent fatal violations of the truce deal. The violations come while Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement that forced the regime into coming to terms with the agreement by mounting thousands of retaliatory strikes against the occupied Palestinian territories, was committing to the deal, he said. Hezbollah's commitment, he added, were being implemented in coordination with the Lebanese Army. "Israel too is obligated to pull out of all of Lebanon's areas, and end its aggression," Berri asserted. He also urged that the committee monitoring implementation of the deal take up its responsibilities alongside the UNIFIL, which features the United Nations peacekeeping forces in Lebanon. "Upon Israel's [potential] withdrawal from all of Lebanon's areas, the country's Army has to be fully stationed in those areas." Most recently, the Army reported "dangerous contravention" of the ceasefire deal by Israeli forces, who had invaded the Wadi al-Hajir area in southern Lebanon. The Israeli regime's Ha'aretz paper, meanwhile, reported that the Israeli army sought to overstay in Lebanon upon expiration of the deal's 60-day span. Mustafa Bayram, labor minister in Lebanon's Interim Government, also addressed the violations, saying, "The Israeli army's invasion of Wadi al-Hajir amounts to a historical salutary lesson, and proves that resistance is the only option towards confronting the Zionist occupiers, and that all other solutions have severely failed in the face of the regime's aggression." Berri, in addition, addressed the issue of the ongoing process of appointment of Lebanon's next president, saying that he intended to pick the official during a meeting scheduled for January 9, and urging the Lebanese legislators to assume their relevant responsibilities concerning the matter too. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel struggling to contain attacks as Yemeni missiles rain down: US report Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 8:46 AM The Israeli regime is struggling to contain the material and humanitarian damage resulting from the Yemeni Armed Forces' extensive missile strikes against the occupied Palestinian territories, according to a report. The New York Times passed the observations in an analysis titled, "Israel Struggles to Halt Attacks From Yemen, Once Off Radar," published on Sunday. "Israel is being challenged by intensifying attacks" by the forces in Yemen, which is situated some 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) away from the occupied territories, it said. 'Israelis kept awake at night' The Yemeni forces, it said, are "keeping them (the Israelis) up at night literally with a string of attacks...and challenged by a lack of precise intelligence on the whereabouts of the forces' leaders and weapons stores, Israel is struggling to stop them." The forces have markedly intensified their pro-Palestinian strikes against the territories and other Israeli targets. The operations began following the Israeli regime's launch of a war of genocide against the Gaza Strip last October. The brutal military onslaught has so far claimed the lives of more than 45,500 Palestinians, mostly women and children. 'Israeli regime's economic heart in crosshairs' The Yemeni strikes have shifted their focus towards Tel Aviv, the Israeli regime's economic heart, over the past several weeks, with the Arab country's Armed Forces recurrently announcing successfully hitting the city with ballistic and hypersonic missiles. As a means of trying to stop the pro-Palestinian operations, the regime and the United States, its closest ally, have been conducting unrelenting aerial assaults against Yemen, prompting the latter to also start targeting the American military assets that are deployed off the Yemeni coastline. The Times likewise said the Yemeni forces had "recently escalated a campaign against Israel, launching ballistic missiles toward it almost nightly over the past week." The forces appeared to be undeterred even after the regime's warplanes carried out their fourth and "most brazen" round of attacks against Yemen, the paper acknowledged. The troops then fired a missile towards Tel Aviv before dawn on Friday and another around 2 a.m. on Saturday, setting off air raid sirens, it noted, besides repeating Tel Aviv's recurrent allegations that the regime's military had intercepted the projectiles. Yemeni resilience The daily, meanwhile, noted that the forces had withstood close to 10 years of a ferocious Saudi-led war on the Arab Peninsula nation as well as intense ongoing American and British aggression against the country. Now, they are "displaying a similar resilience against Israel," it stated. The paper cited Zohar Palti, a former director of intelligence in Mossad, the regime's spy service, and a former director of policy in its ministry for military affairs, as saying, "We have a problem," adding that the regime on its own, did not have a "patent" for solving the problem. It also quoted experts as saying that the regime's "security establishment" had never prioritized Yemen and had not expended efforts in gathering intelligence on the country's Armed Forces over the years. The regime had "too many balls in the air," Palti said, referring to its obsession with stopping Iran's nuclear energy program, its ongoing war on Gaza as well as aggression against Lebanon and Syria. "It's a matter of investment," he said. "It may take days, weeks or months, but in the end we will bring the intelligence." The Yemeni troops have, nevertheless, now turned into a "bizarre nuisance" for the regime, the paper wrote. It cited a unique drone strike by them that saw the aircraft taking a different route, flying in from the west over the Mediterranean coast and evading the regime's missile systems and hitting an apartment building in Tel Aviv, the regime's economic heart, killing one man and wounding several other people. "The warhead of one 'intercepted' missile badly damaged a school in a Tel Aviv suburb this month, landing at night when the building was 'empty.' Another missile got through and struck a playground in Tel Aviv, damaging the surrounding apartment buildings and slightly wounding 16 people," the daily reported. Lip-service It also pointed to the regime's ramping up of its "tough talk" concerning Yemen, such as prime minister Benjamine Netanyahu's claiming that the country "will learn what Hamas, Hezbollah, the [Bashar] Assad regime, and others have learned." "We are just getting started with them." Israel Katz, the regime's war minister, also alleged, vowing to "hunt" Yemen's leaders. The daily cited director of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who was at the International Airport at Yemen's capital Sana'a during an Israeli attack, as saying that the aggression had damaged the air traffic control tower, the departure lounge, and the runway at the facility. It also cited analysts as noting that damaging Yemen's national infrastructure was not likely to stop the country's forces from striking the occupied territories. 'Willing to go very, very far' The forces have, themselves, similarly vowed to sustain their operations until the regime ceased its regional violations. "They (the forces) don't care and they are willing to go very, very far," said Farea al-Muslimi, a Yemeni research fellow at Chatham House, a London-based research institute. They have "jumped into the front carriage of the Axis of Resistance train," the expert noted, referring to the region's anti-Israeli fighters. Since Oct. 7, 2023, the troops have cemented their presence as a global actor, and they were likely to hold out in their fight against the regime. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dec. 29: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 8:00 AM By Press TV Website Staff Amid the West-backed Israeli genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed more than 45,500 Palestinians so far, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers. The major operations by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Sunday, December 29, are as follows: Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on Dec. 29: Targeted an Israeli military Merkava tank with a highly explosive device. Immediately after the rescue force arrived, it was targeted again with a Yassin 105 shell east of Jabalia al-Balad, northern Gaza Strip. Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Dec. 29: Blew up a house where a number of Israeli soldiers were holed up in the Al-Sikka area east of Jabalia camp, northern Gaza Strip, in a joint operation with the Al-Aqsa Brigades. Targeted and destroyed an Israeli military Merkava by detonating a 'Thaqib' explosive device planted in advance on Al-Sikka Street, west of Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza Strip. Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli forces and lured them into a house - which has been booby-trapped - on Al-Wad Street, west of Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza Strip. Targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and their military vehicles with mortar fire in the vicinity of Al-Attar Mosque, southwest of Rafah city, southern Gaza Strip. Seized a reconnaissance plane while it was carrying out intelligence missions in southwest of Rafah city, southern Gaza Strip. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni Armed Forces conduct 13 anti-Israel missile operations in 10 days Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 6:41 AM The spokesman for the Yemeni Armed Forces says the country's missile units have carried out at least 13 operations against Israeli targets in the past 10 days, demonstrating support for Palestinians in Gaza amidst the Tel Aviv regime's genocidal war. Brigadier General Yahya Saree announced on Sunday that most of the attacks targeted Tel Aviv in the central part of the occupied territories, using hypersonic ballistic missiles. According to Saree, Yemen's Armed Forces undertook the operations in defense of their country and in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza between December 19 and 28. On Saturday, Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a missile strike against a strategic Israeli military position in the northern part of the Negev Desert in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the spokesperson for the Yemeni military, announced in a statement at the time that the Arab nation's missile units had targeted Nevatim Airbase, located 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) southeast of Beersheba, using a Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missile. He added that the missile strike could successfully attain its desired objectives. Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, after the territory's resistance movements carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against the occupying entity. Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has been also targeting ships linked to Israel, the United States, or the United Kingdom to force an end to the Tel Aviv regime's genocidal war on Gaza. These operations have effectively shut down the Eilat port south of the occupied territories, causing significant economic setbacks for the Israelis. The Yemeni Armed Forces have said they will not stop their attacks until Israel's ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. So far, Israel has killed at least 45,514 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured another 108,189 individuals in Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel sets homes ablaze in southern Lebanon in violation of ceasefire: Lebanese army Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 6:39 AM The Lebanese army says Israeli forces have advanced into the towns of Qantara and Taybeh in the Marjayoun district in southern Lebanon, where they burned several homes in violation of a ceasefire agreement with the Hezbollah resistance movement. "In the context of the ongoing violations by the Israeli enemy of the ceasefire agreement and its assaults on the sovereignty of Lebanon and its citizens, hostile forces today invaded Qantara and Tayba, and proceeded to burn several homes there," the army said in a statement on Sunday. It added, "A joint patrol of the Lebanese Army and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) headed to the site of the incursion to monitor the situation, in coordination with the quintet committee overseeing the ceasefire agreement." It noted that the "hostile" forces began to withdraw from the two areas and the Lebanese army is trying to reopen roads blocked by the Israeli enemy there. Israel was forced to accept the ceasefire with Hezbollah after suffering heavy losses following almost 14 months of fighting and failing to achieve its goals in its aggression on Lebanon. The truce deal came into effect on November 27. It will last for 60 days in the hope of reaching a permanent cessation of hostilities. Under the agreement, an international monitoring committee, headed by the US, is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire. On Saturday, the Israeli army committed 11 violations of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, bringing the total number of Israeli breaches since last month to 330. The Israeli forces have violated the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon 319 times by the end of Friday under the pretext of "facing threats from Hezbollah". According to Lebanon's Health Ministry, at least 32 people have been killed and 38 injured in Israeli attacks since the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. Hezbollah opened a support front for Palestinians in Gaza only a day after Israel unleashed its war against the besieged territory in October 2023, launching numerous retaliatory attacks against Israeli targets in the occupied lands. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas warns of Israel's expansionist policy Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 3:15 AM The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has warned against the Israeli expansionist policy in Syria following the fall of the country's former President Bashar al-Assad. Referring to comments made by Israel's far-right communication minister Shlomo Karhi about reaching the gates of Damascus, Hamas said on Sunday that the remarks indicate the regime's aggressive intentions toward the region and its people. The movement stated that the terrorist Karai's storming of the courtyards of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque with dozens of extremist settlers and his issuing of statements confirming the aspirations of his rogue entity to reach the gates of Damascus is a confirmation of Israel's colonial intentions and ambitions towards the Arab lands. The group called on Arab and Islamic nations to unite in the face of Israeli expansionist policy and confront the plans of "the fascist regime and its ongoing aggression." It called for effective action to stop the ongoing war of extermination against our people in the Gaza Strip. Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria, targeting positions of the country's army and civilian infrastructure. In the latest such attack, at least 11 were killed in an explosion near the capital Damascus. An explosion at a weapons depot near Syria's capital Damascus on Sunday killed 11 people, a war monitor said, weeks after rebels ousted longtime leader Bashar al-Assad. An official from a nearby area, requesting anonymity, told AFP that "an explosion of unknown origin" rocked the Adra industrial area, reporting an unspecified number of casualties and adding that rescue operations were ongoing. Syria's official news agency SANA also reported arrests this week targeting fighters loyal to Assad in Hama and Latakia provinces, where weapons and ammunition were seized, without providing any figures. Militants, led by HTS, took control of Damascus on December 8 and declared an end to Assad's rule in a surprise offensive that was launched from their stronghold in northwestern Syria, reaching the capital in less than two weeks. The HTS administration has repeatedly claimed they would respect the rights of all sects and religions in Syria. The situation, however, remains very fluid and fragile, with a potential risk of further clashes as sectarian sentiments continue to boil over, amid the ongoing political instability and pressures on minority groups. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China ramps up combat readiness at Scarborough Shoal Large-scale drills by China's navy and air force took place as a U.S. naval ship patrolled nearby. By RFA Staff 2024.12.30 MANILA -- The Chinese military's Southern Theater Command has staged a large-scale combat readiness exercise around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, the ministry of defense in Beijing said. Personnel from China's navy and air force, as well as the coast guard, took part in Sunday's drills at the group of reefs that China refers to as Huangyan Dao, with a U.S. Navy ocean surveillance ship spotted in the area. The ministry said that since the beginning of the month, the Southern Theater Command "has organized its naval and air force troops to continuously strengthen maritime and airspace patrols" around the shoal. Scarborough Shoal is known in the Philippines as Bajo de Masinloc, and is well inside its exclusive economic zone, just 125 nautical miles (232 kilometers) from the main Philippine island of Luzon. In a video clip released by the Chinese Command, several military aircraft including two Su-30 fighter jets, an H-6K bomber and a Shaanxi Y-8 transport plane, were seen flying over the reefs while at least three naval ships led by the 11,000-ton Type 055 large destroyer Xianyang were also present. "This is China flexing its muscle and making a statement about its claim of territorial sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal," said Ray Powell, a U.S. maritime analyst and director of the SeaLight project at Stanford University. "Looking at 2024 as a whole, we've seen China pass new policy enabling its coast guard to detain border violators for up to 60 days and establish straight baselines around Scarborough Shoal to bolster its case that it is Chinese territory," Powell told Radio Free Asia, adding that Beijing has also increased its regular coast guard and maritime militia presence to push Philippine coast guard and fisheries patrols further away, and increased its military presence. "Beijing is putting real teeth behind its 'indisputable sovereignty' claim over the shoal," he said. No more 'gray zone' Powell spotted the USNS Victorious, a U.S. Military Sealift Command ocean surveillance vessel, patrolling nearby, apparently to monitor the Chinese exercise. "I don't think we can be sure, but it seems very timely. I can't think of another reason it would have tarried there at that time unless it was to surveil China's patrol," he told RFA. The United States is the Philippines' treaty ally and has repeatedly condemned China's aggression in the waters over which China claims the lion's share. China's claims were rejected by an international tribunal in 2016 and are being disputed by other littoral states. Manila has yet to respond to Beijing's latest activities but the Philippine army chief said this month that China had "upscaled its presence" in the West Philippine Sea, referring to the area of South China Sea under Philippine jurisdiction. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., chief of the armed forces, told an RFA reporter in Manila that his office had adopted an acronym for Chinese activities in the region - ICAD, or illegal, coercive, aggressive and disruptive, actions - instead of gray zone activities. Gray zone tactics are aggressive actions that jeopardize a nation's security but are under the threshold of war and therefore difficult to respond to. The Philippine military's new strategy is to set up an effective presence in the West Philippine Sea with a "whole nation approach," with all sectors of society taking part in the maritime strategy, according to Brawner. "The Philippines lacks the maritime capability to directly challenge China's effective control of Scarborough Shoal," said Stanford's Powell. "It will have to press its case on the international stage that China's actions have violated international law by denying Philippine fishermen access to the shoal and by permitting environmental destruction of the shoal by its own fishermen through their illegal giant clam harvesting," the analyst added. In 2016 Manila brought Beijing to a U.N. arbitral tribunal which ruled that almost all China's claims in the South China Sea were illegal and therefore invalid. China refused to take part and rejected the ruling. The Philippine government, however, is considering a new legal case against China for its violations of the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea and is seeking support from other nations, sources told RFA. Edited by Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content December not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Declares No Intent to Attack Yemen, But Promises Retaliation Against Houthi Strikes Sputnik News 20241230 UNITED NATIONS (Sputnik) - Israel has no conflict with Yemen or any intention to attack it but will retaliate against attacks launched from Houthi-controlled areas, Danny Danon, Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations said on Monday. "We have no conflict with Yemen... So we have no intention to attack Yemen, but we will retaliate," Danon told journalists. Direct conflict between Israel and the Houthis has intensified this month. After a series of rocket and drone attacks launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, Israel conducted strikes on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and the Hudaydah province on December 19, which resulted in civilian casualties. On December 26, in response to additional attacks by the Houthis Israel launched a strike on the Sanaa International Airport. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was inside the airport at the time. He was unharmed but one crew member of the UN delegation got injured. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Venezuelan President-elect Gonzalez Urrutia and Democratic Opposition Leader Machado US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson December 30, 2024 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with President-elect Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia and Maria Corina Machado, leaders of Venezuela's democratic opposition. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the will of the Venezuelan people as expressed at the ballot box, the peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela, and the release of all unjustly detained political prisoners. He reiterated that the United States stands in solidarity with the international community in expressing our condemnation of Maduro's anti-democratic actions. The Secretary also commended the democratic opposition's resilience and Venezuelan people's commitment to democracy in the face of repression and adversity. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We condemn the Houthis' reckless missile attacks on Israel: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security. 30 December 2024 President, the UK is deeply alarmed by the Houthis' continued missile and UAV attacks against Israel and their ongoing targeting of international shipping in the Red Sea. We strongly condemn these actions, these reckless actions, and call on the Houthis to stop immediately. There is no justification for these attacks. Houthi aggression not only risks regional escalation, but it is also making worse the already dire humanitarian and economic conditions inside Yemen. A comprehensive and inclusive political settlement remains the best route to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Yemen. We are also clear on the role of Iran in fuelling this escalation. Its longstanding financial and military support to the Houthis has enabled and exacerbated Houthi aggression. Iran bears responsibility for the actions of its proxies, and it must cease its illegal activity which is destabilising the region and threatening international peace and stability. President, the UK reiterates its support for Israel's right to self-defence in the face of Houthi attacks. However, Israeli action must be consistent with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians. We are concerned by Israeli strikes on Yemen's civilian infrastructure, including the recent attack on Sana'a airport which injured a UNHAS crew member and endangered the Director-General of the World Health Organisation and his team. Let me be clear, humanitarians must be able to carry out their important work safely and securely. Director-General Tedros was in Yemen to address the ongoing unlawful detention of humanitarian, NGO and diplomatic staff by the Houthis. We are grateful to him and his team for their efforts and we call on the Houthis to now fulfil their commitments and immediately and unconditionally release all the detainees. Finally, I reiterate the UK's call for de-escalation and underline our commitment to ending the conflict in the region. Further bloodshed and suffering are in no one's interests. We must break the cycle of violence and deliver long-awaited peace and security for the people of the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN official warns against further escalation amid attacks in Yemen, Israel and the Red Sea 30 December 2024 - A senior UN official appealed on Monday for an end to the hostilities between Israel and Houthi rebels in Yemen which have taken "an escalatory turn" in recent weeks. Briefing the Security Council in New York, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, Khaled Khiari, warned the Middle East was witnessing another dangerous escalation. He said that attacks in Israel and Yemen, as well as in the Red Sea, are of grave concern, and warned that further military escalation could jeopardize regional stability, with adverse political, security, economic and humanitarian repercussions. "We must do our utmost to reverse this negative trajectory and support comprehensive efforts to end conflicts in the Middle East," he said. "We must preserve a path toward sustainable peace and stability that benefits all the peoples of the region." Attacks on the rise The latest developments follow a year of increasing Houthi attacks targeting Israel as well as vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Since 13 December, the Houthis have claimed at least 11 attacks targeting Israel, using ballistic missiles and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), he said. Israel in turn carried out airstrikes on 19 December that targeted energy and port infrastructure in the Houthi-controlled ports of Hudaydah, Salif, Ra's Isa and the capital, Sana'a. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed it was hitting military targets. Mr. Khiari told the Council that nine civilians were reportedly killed, while Red Sea ports suffered considerable damage, thus reducing their capacity. Israel also struck two power stations in two districts of Sana'a, causing temporary power distributions there and in Hudaydah. Damage and casualties Continuing, the senior official said that while many missiles and other projectiles fired by the Houthis have been intercepted, an elementary school in Ramat Gan, located in central Israel, was damaged by a missile warhead on 20 December. A day later, another missile landed in a residential neighbourhood in Jaffa causing damage to nearby homes and 16 civilian injuries, including a three-year-old child. The IDF conducted airstrikes on 26 December that targeted Sana'a International Airport, the Red Sea ports on Yemen's western coast, in addition to power stations in Sana'a and Hudaydah which it said were being used for military purposes "The risks of disruption to vital humanitarian operations at a time when millions of people in Yemen are in need of life-saving assistance are of grave concern," said Mr. Khiari. UN in the crosshairs He noted that the 26 December strikes have reportedly resulted in at least six killed and dozens injured, while a crew member with the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) was also injured when the airport was hit. Moreover, a high-level UN delegation headed by the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was also at the airport at this time. The delegation had just concluded discussions on the humanitarian situation in Yemen and the release of UN and other personnel detained by the Houthis. In this regard, the UN continues to call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and other personnel arbitrarily detained by the rebels. Grave concern Mr. Khiari reiterated the UN Secretary-General's grave concern about intensified escalation. "I also echo his calls that international law, including humanitarian law as applicable, must be respected by all parties," he added. "We appeal to all to respect and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. Humanitarian workers must be protected at all times." He said the UN condemns attacks claimed by the Houthis, including on the vessel the Santa Ursula in the Arabian Sea on 27 December. United States forces targeted Houthi military facilities and weapons systems in Yemen on 16 and 21 December reportedly in response to the group's maritime attacks. There have also been unconfirmed reports of airstrikes on 27, 28 and 29 December in different parts of Yemen. "We reiterate that attacks originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen must stop," he said, while calling for Security Council Resolution 2722 (2024) to be fully respected. The resolution was adopted in January and demands that all attacks in the Red Sea must cease. USA: 'Past time for Houthis to cease reckless behaviour' Speaking for the United States of America, Dorothy Shea, Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, condemned the latest Houthi attacks on Israel and underlined American support for Israel's right to self-defence. Ms. Shea reiterated the U.S. call for the Security Council to consider additional actions to respond to the growing threats from the Houthis and to hold Iran to account. "The United States will not hesitate to protect its own personnel, regional partners and international shipping," warned the diplomat, going on to provide details of the US military operations on 16 and 21 December which targeted Houthi infrastructure, uncrewed aerial vehicles and missiles. These actions, she said, were "consistent with international law and were an exercise of the United States inherent right to self-defence". Israel must coordinate operations It is "critical", said Ms. Shea, that Israel coordinate their military operations, and ensure that they do not threaten the lives of civilians or civilian infrastructure. She said that the US was thankful that Tedros Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organization, and his team were safe, after the Israeli strike that hit Sana'a airport on Thursday, destroying the air traffic control tower, reportedly killing three people. The UN, continued the US official, is delivering critical aid to the Yemeni people, facing "perilous circumstances." "It is past time for the Houthis to cease their reckless and destabilizing behaviour, and this Council should ensure that there are consequences for their actions". United Kingdom: 'No justification' for Houthi attacks There is "no justification" for the continued Houthi missile and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) attacks against Israel and targeting of international shipping in the Red Sea, stated Barbara Woodward, the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN. The Houthi aggression, declared Ms. Woodward, risks regional escalation, and is worsening the already dire humanitarian and economic conditions inside Yemen. The ambassador added that Iran has plauy a role in fuelling this escalation, and bears responsibility for the actions of its proxies. Referring to the Israeli attack on Sana'a airport, Ms. Woodward declared that Israeli action must be consistent with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians. Russia: Threats to civilians 'unacceptable' Russia's Ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, condemned the Houthi missile attacks against Israel on 19 and 20 December and emphasized that threats to civilians and civilian infrastructure are "unacceptable". However, Mr. Nebenzia described the military response as "clearly not proportional" and also worthy of condemnation, and he called on all parties involved in actions against Yemen to exercise restraint and to avoid escalatory action. The senior Russian diplomat said that January marks a year of Western "illegitimate military action" against Yemen which is "sowing more and more destruction in this country" and is "yet another military aggression being waged by the collective West against a sovereign state". Progress on the political track, argued Mr. Nebenzia, will lead to a reduction and eventual cessation of military activities on the part of the Houthi Ansar Allah organization. Israel: 'We have had enough' Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon said he was shocked to the core to learn that the school in his hometown, Ramat Gan, that he had attended as a child was struck by a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis. He also recalled that a three-year-old was critically injured in another attack on a playground in Jaffa. "What would you do if it were your child, your school, your city? Because this isn't just my story. It's Israel's story. It's a story we are living every single day. We have had enough," he said. Mr. Danon told the Council that for more than a year, the Houthis have "unleashed almost 300 unprovoked missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli civilians and communities," which he called "systematic, calculated terror". Holding up a map, he noted that Yemen is some 2,000 kilometres (roughly 1,500 miles) away from Israel and the two countries do not even share a border. "We have no dispute with them, yet they send their missiles and their drones to murder our people. And why? Pure radical jihadist hatred for Jews," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN chief hails 'peacemaker, human rights champion', former President Jimmy Carter 30 December 2024 - The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday expressed his deep sadness at the passing of former United States President Jimmy Carter, who has died aged 100, at his home in Plains, Georgia. The Democratic Party icon lived longer than any president in US history, serving one term between 1977 and 1981, going on burnish his reputation on the international stage by being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, and establishing a major hub for diplomacy and conflict resolution in the form of the Carter Center - which advocates for democracy and human rights around the world. After suffering an undisclosed illness, he elected to stop medical treatment last year, choosing instead to receive hospice care at home. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden led the tributes, saying that the world had "lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian." In his statement Mr. Guterres highlighted President Carter's leadership while in office and overall contributions to international peace and security, "including the landmark Camp David Accords" - the 1978 peace treaty between Egypt and Israel which remains in force. The Secretary-General also noted the gains made through the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks which led to the 1979 SALT II Treaty between the US and the Soviet Union - limiting nuclear proliferation - together with the Panama Canal Treaties which enabled ownership of the key waterway linking the Pacific and Atlantic to return to Panama in 1999. After leaving office, President Carter turned his attention to addressing global challenges of inequality, human rights, inadequate housing and other social justice issues. "President Carter's commitment to international peace and human rights also found full expression after he left the presidency," said the UN chief. "He played a key role in conflict mediation, election monitoring, the promotion of democracy, and disease prevention and eradication," Mr. Guterres added. A friend of the UN "These and other efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and helped advance the work of the United Nations." President Carter, together with former South African President Nelson Mandela, founded The Elders group, to advance the human rights and peace agenda. Mr. Guterres said President Carter would be remembered "for his solidarity with the vulnerable, his abiding grace, and his unrelenting faith in the common good and our common humanity." He extended his deepest condolences to the Carter family and all citizens of the United States. He concluded by saying the former president's "legacy as a peacemaker, human rights champion and humanitarian will endure." President Carter is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He lost his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, in November last year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pointing to 'Escalatory Turn' in Israeli-Houthi Conflict, Top Political, Peacebuilding Official Urges Action to Reverse Dangerous Trajectory, briefing Security Council Meetings Coverage Security Council 9829th Meeting (AM) SC/15958 30 December 2024 Millions in Yemen, Israel and throughout the region continue to bear the brunt of military escalations, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today, as its members stressed the importance of protecting humanitarian workers and civilians. "The hostilities unfolding between Israel and the Houthis have taken an escalatory turn over the past weeks," said Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, detailing an alarming trajectory of military incidents this month. Since 13 December, the Houthis have claimed at least 11 attacks targeting Israel, while on 19 December, that country conducted airstrikes that targeted infrastructure in Houthi-controlled ports. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed it was hitting military targets, he said, adding that nine civilians were reportedly killed. On 20 December, a Houthi-fired missile warhead damaged an elementary school in central Israel, and on 21 December, another missile landed in a residential neighbourhood in Jaffa, causing 16 civilian injuries. On 26 December, Israeli air strikes targeted Sana'a International Airport, the Red Sea ports on Yemen's western coast and various power stations. Highlighting the risks of disruption to vital humanitarian operations "at a time when millions of people in Yemen are in need of life-saving assistance", he said that Israel's strikes three days ago have reportedly resulted in at least six killed and dozens injured, including a UN Humanitarian Air Service crew member. A high-level UN delegation, headed by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was at the Sana'a airport when it was hit they had just concluded discussions on the humanitarian situation in Yemen and the release of UN and other personnel detained by the Houthis, he added. Condemning attacks claimed by the Houthis, he also noted that United States forces targeted their military facilities and weapons systems on 16 and 21 December. Stressing that "humanitarian workers must be protected at all times", he reiterated the importance of Council resolution 2722 (2024). "We must do our utmost to reverse this negative trajectory and support comprehensive efforts to end conflicts in the Middle East," he underscored. Senior Fellow at Washington Institute for Near East Policy Points to 'Aggressive and Expansionist' Houthis "The Houthis are aggressive and expansionist," noted Michael Knights, Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, adding that they draw military, intelligence and financial support from global partners, including Iran, Hizbullah, Iran-backed militias in Iraq, Al-Qaida, Al-Shabaab "and reportedly also the Russian Federation". The first dimension of the threat they pose, he said, "manifests inside Yemen itself" where they have committed human rights abuses and used drone attacks to prevent the Government from exporting oil and gas. The second dimension is the danger they pose to regional States in the Middle East and Africa. By attacking Israel, he said, "the Houthis deliberately risked bringing retaliation onto Yemen's ports, airports and fuel-storage facilities endangering humanitarian access to Yemen". "The final dimension of the Houthi threat is global," he said, adding that their anti-shipping campaign in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean have affected ships and people from 85 countries so far. "The Houthis thus resemble a knife held against one of the world's most important trade arteries," he said. Against that backdrop, he urged the Council to strengthen the UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism for Yemen, which is meant to enforce the arms embargo; sanction shippers and flag States violating relevant Council resolutions; and call on all Member States to support the efforts of Yemen's Government to interdict smuggled arms. Israel's Speaker Says Houthis Engaging in 'Systematically Calculated Terror' Israel's delegate said the Houthis have been bombarding his country with ballistic missiles, including at a school and a playground. "What would you do if it were your child, your school or your city?" he asked, stating: "We have had enough." For over a year, this Iranian-backed terrorist organization has unleashed almost 300 unprovoked missile attacks, targeting Israeli civilians who are waking up every night to the sound of sirens. "This is systematically calculated terror," he stressed, adding that, even though Israel has no border with Yemen, the Houthis send their missiles and drones to murder its people. Under the watch of this Council, "the Houthis have grown from a terrorist group into a terrorist army", he observed, noting their estimated annual budget of $1.2 billion, derived from illegal activities and stolen assets. The UN's failure to enforce the arms embargo enables their "reign of terror", including the strangling of the Suez Canal the critical route of global trade, he said. "[Tehran's] fingerprints are on every missile," he added, emphasizing that the Houthis are "nothing more than Iran's weapon in the war against peace." His country will not wait for the world to act, he declared, adding: "Don't call for de-escalation when we defend ourselves." Council Members Condemn Houthi Attacks against Israel and Red Sea Shipping Council members denounced the Houthis attacks against Israel and Red Sea shipping which are exacerbating tensions in the region. "It is past time for the Houthis to cease their reckless, destabilizing behavior," said the representative of the United States, Council President for December, speaking in her national capacity. She reaffirmed support for extending Council resolution 2722 (2024)'s reporting request for an additional six months. Her country's precision air strike on a Houthi facility on 16 December, as well as other military actions, were consistent with international law, she said, adding that Israeli military operations in densely populated areas must be coordinated "in a way that does not threaten the lives of civilians or civilian infrastructure". Noting that WHO Director-General Ghebreyesus had traveled to Yemen on behalf of the UN, she expressed gratitude that he and his team are safe after an Israeli strike on Thursday hit the Sana'a airport. "Iran bears responsibility for the actions of its proxies," the representative of the United Kingdom asserted. She also reiterated support for Israel's right to self-defence, but stated that its actions must be "consistent with its obligations under international humanitarian law including the protection of civilians". France's delegate said his country will continue its commitments within the framework of the European Union's defensive naval operation ASPIDES, in order to restore maritime security and freedom of navigation. He also expressed concern about the Israeli strike on the airport in Sana'a on 26 December, which injured the co-pilot of a UN aircraft tasked with transporting a high-level United Nations delegation. The Houthis are agonizing the people in the region and beyond, including Yemenis, by fuelling tension in the already inflamed Middle East, Japan's representative said. He called on them to immediately cease attacks on international shipping and unconditionally release all those arbitrarily detained, including the Galaxy Leader and its crew. "Expressing solidarity with Palestinians in their quest for peace cannot be pursued through ballistic missiles and drones," added Slovenia's representative. Claims Houthis Exploiting Uncertainty as Region Stands at Critical Juncture "It is regrettable that the Houthis continuously exploit regional uncertainty while the Middle East stands at a critical juncture," observed the speaker for theRepublic of Korea. Their attacks in the Red Sea and beyond disrupt global supply chains, impede political progress, and, ultimately, endanger Yemeni lives. Also, Israeli air strikes on Yemen's key ports, Sana'a International Airport and power stations raise alarm about damage to essential lifelines, especially Hudaydah, he cautioned, underlining the vital importance of ensuring the full functionality of critical infrastructure. Along similar lines, Ecuador's delegate said that the Houthi attacks have no justification and increase the risk of a cycle of reprisals. He, too, expressed concern about the attack on the international airport in Sanaa which took place while a UN delegation was present on its premises. "Civilian targets, including airports ports" should never be subject to military assault, said the representative of Sierra Leone, speaking also for Algeria, Mozambique and Guyana. Respect for Principles of Proportionality and Precaution Crucial The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution are "not abstractions" and take on "a particularly concrete and urgent meaning" in Yemen, said Switzerland's delegate, highlighting the country's catastrophic economic, food and health situation. Port, air and energy infrastructures are essential to the survival of millions of civilians. Concurrently, she underscored that, in Israel, the civilian population must not be subjected to indiscriminate attacks, including the destruction of civilian infrastructure such as schools. Her counterpart from Malta also called on the Houthis to immediately cease all attacks in the region while adding: "It is deeply regrettable that Yemeni civilians will suffer the repercussions of such attacks, given their reliance on humanitarian aid delivered through Hudaydah's port." Calls to Consider Israel's Actions against Palestinians in Broader Regional Context The representative of the Russian Federation urged those present to consider the broader context, in which "many hotspots of tension are today provoked by the actions of Israel against Palestinians". While the Houthis' launch of a missile towards Israel on the night of 19-20 December "without a doubt deserves our condemnation", he stressed that so, too, does the reaction of the Israeli military with the involvement of the United States Navy and "the entire self-proclaimed Anglo-Saxon coalition in the Red Sea". The coalition's actions, he said, "are nothing but another military aggression being waged by the collective West against a sovereign State". China's representative said that the Council faced with "ceaseless waves of instability in the Middle East" must learn from experience, strive for consensus, act effectively and "find integrated, comprehensive solutions to the Middle East issue in the new year". He added: "Only when the Palestinian question is completely resolved can there be true peace and stability in the Middle East." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Arrives at Port Klang, Malaysia US Navy 30 December 2024 PORT KLANG, Malaysia -- The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group arrived in Malaysia for a scheduled port visit, Dec. 29. This visit marks the second U.S. Navy aircraft carrier visit to Malaysia in just over a month since 2012. The U.S. established diplomatic relations with Malaysia in 1957 following Malaysia's independence from the United Kingdom, elevating the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership in April 2014. "Malaysia is a key partner for us in the Indo-Pacific. Our visit reinforces the importance of this partnership to the United States," said Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, Carrier Strike Group ONE (CSG-1). "Visiting Port Klang provides us with an important and unique opportunity to collaborate with our Royal Malaysian Navy counterparts, continuing to build upon our strategic and mutually beneficial partnership, while also providing our Sailors well-deserved downtime to explore the area and build connections within the community." The U.S. and Malaysia cooperate closely on security matters, including counter-terrorism, maritime domain awareness, and regional stability, and participate frequently in bilateral and multilateral training, exercises and visits. "The back-to-back visits of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and the USS Abraham Lincoln to Malaysia underscore the depth and strength of our security tiesan enduring cornerstone of the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership," said U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan. "Building on decades of close collaboration, we continue to bolster our security partnership and remain committed to working with Malaysia to advance our shared vision of a free, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." During their stay in Malaysia, the nearly 7,500 Sailors from CSG-1 will participate in cultural exchanges, community relations events, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR)-sponsored tours to enhance cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries. "On behalf of America's Favorite Aircraft Carrier, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the people of Port Klang and Kuala Lumpur for welcoming the Sailors of USS Carl Vinson with such enthusiasm and warm hospitality," said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer, USS Carl Vinson. "We are delighted to welcome Malaysian Navy and government officials aboard Vinson, and we are grateful for the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of Malaysia." The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) ONE and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) one, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Two, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). CVW-2 is composed of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, CMV-22 Osprey and MH-60R/S Seahawks. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WHO chief calls for end to attacks on Gaza hospitals By VOA News December 30, 2024 World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday the health system in the Gaza Strip is "under severe threat" as he called for an end to Israeli attacks on hospitals. "People in Gaza need access to health care. Humanitarians need access to provide health aid. Ceasefire!" Tedros said in a statement. Tedros also called for the immediate release of Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, who was detained by Israeli forces along with more than 200 Palestinians last week. At the time, the Israeli military said the hospital was being used by militants and that Safiya was being questioned as a suspected Hamas member. The hospital, located in the Beit Lahiya area, was one of the last functioning hospitals in northern Gaza. "Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is out of service following the raid, forced patient and staff evacuation and the detention of its director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya two days ago. His whereabouts are unknown," Tedros said. The WHO chief also said the agency's partners were able to carry out deliveries of medical supplies, food and water to the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza. The conflict in Gaza began with the October 2023 attack on southern Israel, during which Hamas militants killed about 1,200 people and took 250 hostages. About 100 hostages are still being held in Gaza, with one-third of them believed to be dead. Israel's counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 45,500 people and injured 108,000 others, according to the Gaza health ministry. The United States, United Kingdom, European Union and others have designated Hamas as a terror group. Some information for this story was provided by Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Over 13,000 Mozambicans flee to Malawi amid post-election violence By Lameck Masina December 30, 2024 Thousands of Mozambicans have fled to Malawi to escape violence triggered by the disputed October presidential election. The latest statistics show that Malawi has received about 13,000 refugees from Mozambique in recent weeks, many of them women and children. Authorities say that the number is expected to rise. Sofia Jimu, the traditional leader of the Tengani area in Mozambique, is among those who fled to Malawi. She said a lack of food is the main challenge at the evacuation center where she is staying, adding that three children collapsed because of hunger in just one day. However, she said, the following day she was given 150 bags of maize flour and four bags of beans to distribute to people at the center. The political tension in Mozambique escalated after the Constitutional Council confirmed Daniel Chapo, presidential candidate for the ruling Frelimo Party, as the winner of the Oct. 9 election. Runner-up Venancio Mondlane, presidential candidate for the opposition Podemos party, disputes the results. Plataforma Decide, a monitoring group in Mozambique, says more than 200 people have been killed since post-election protests started in October. Dominic Mwandira, the commissioner for Nsanje district in Malawi, told VOA on Sunday that the biggest challenge is a lack of resources to take care of the asylum-seekers currently staying in makeshift camps near the border. "In terms of food and then nonfood items, tents, issues of water, they are several," he said. "But we are happy that partners have started coming in, the government is coming in to support these people." He said organizations offering help include the Malawi Red Cross Society and Plan International. Jane Mweziwina, a program area manager for Plan International in Malawi, told reporters they are working to ensure new arrivals are protected. "You know women, people with disabilities and children are always vulnerable when they are in a crisis like this. So, our advice to the leadership is that they take special consideration for these special groups of people in terms of accommodation, security, even in terms of food," she said. Malawi authorities say plans are under way to relocate asylum-seekers to a more spacious center. In the meantime, Malawi's Department for Refugees and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Malawi are conducting a joint assessment to identify the needs of asylum-seekers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More Air Force flights supporting Vanuatu response New Zealand Defence Force Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130H Hercules aircraft have carried out further flights as part of the New Zealand Government's support to Vanuatu in the wake of the 7.3 magnitude earthquake which struck the Pacific nation on 17 December. 31 December, 2024 Two round-trip flights took place on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 December taking a small number of staff from various agencies to Vanuatu, and bringing home many whose tour of duty had concluded, most from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). These flights were also used to return equipment no longer required, to be made ready for any other disaster support requirements in the region. The two flights brought to seven the total number of Vanuatu flights carried out to date by No 40 Squadron. They include two flights by Boeing 757-200 aircraft which as well as disaster relief staff and equipment, brought home Kiwis being evacuated from Vanuatu. RNZAF Air Component Commander, Air Commodore Andy Scott, said that after last weekend's flights most of the people initially deployed by agencies to Vanuatu are now home. "They have done outstanding work over there at a time of need for one of our Pacific neighbours. I am very proud of our Air Force personnel that worked so well with the teams across agencies at a time of the year when most are enjoying Christmas with their families, so well done to all involved in the response. "No further flights are scheduled at the moment, but we're ready to help if and when we're needed," he said. The Hercules flights carried out by the C-130H aircraft are likely to be amongst their last operational tasks as they approach retirement next month after many decades of service. For the past few months they have been operating alongside the Squadron's new C-130Js as the new aircraft complete their introduction into service activities. Air Commodore Scott said the H fleet's record of service is an extraordinary achievement. "For nearly 60 years they have served the people of New Zealand, our Pacific Islands friends and neighbours, and further afield, often in extreme climatic environments and sometimes in other difficult circumstances. They have been iconic for us all - and they're still going strong," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Government adopts resolution on space strategy Finnish Government Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment 30.12.2024 Press release The Government adopted a resolution on the national space strategy on 30 December 2024. The space sector and its geopolitical operating environment have changed significantly in recent years. There are around 200 companies operating in the sector in Finland and their turnover has tripled in 2018-2022. The key areas for space technology applications are in the security and defence sector, telecommunications and climate change. Many functions important for society rely on space services and would deteriorate or function poorly without very accurate location, time or measurement data provided by satellites. "One of the key ideas of the previous strategy completed in 2018 was to build an operating and innovation environment in Finland that would strengthen the space sector. The tripling of the turnover of space sector companies indicates that this has been successful. It also appears that the administration of the space sector is working well and is not an obstacle to growth. The new strategy aims to further strengthen growth in the sector," says Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman. "International research shows that investments in space activities will benefit other sectors of society 6-7 times the value of the initial investment. The importance of space activities for the security and defence policy is constantly growing. The space will be one of the stages for great power competition," adds Rydman. In order for space services to be produced and utilised in Finland, skills, research data and a favourable operating environment are necessary. Cooperation between the private and public sectors plays a key role in this. Due to limited resources, Finland must identify the capabilities in which it wants to be self-sufficient. These will be supported by services acquired through international cooperation. As a rule, the measures defined in the strategy will be implemented within the framework of the current duties and operating expenses of the administrative branches and other bodies. The administrative branches participating in the implementation of the strategy will decide on the allocation or application for required resources and funding. The implementation of the space strategy will be monitored by the Finnish Space Committee and coordinated by the secretariat of the Committee. The previous space strategy dates back to 2018. In December 2023, Minister of Economic Affairs Rydman appointed a working group to update the national space strategy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Albanese Government accelerates Defence capability delivery as part of commitment to safer Australia The Hon Pat Conroy MP Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Minister for International Development and the Pacific 30 December 2024 The delivery of the final nine of Australia's fleet of 72 F-35A Lightning II aircraft underscores the Albanese Government's commitment to keeping Australia safe by ensuring the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has what it needs to defend our nation. Defence has undertaken the rapid introduction of this important capability since the first two F-35A Lightning II aircraft arrived in Australia on 10 December 2018. The F-35A aircraft fleet, in conjunction with the EA-18G Growler and F/A-18F Super Hornets, are the cornerstone of Australia's air defence and strike capability, as outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy. As a multi-role fighter, the F-35A can perform air-to-air and air-to-surface missions, and utilise stealth technology, electronic protection, electronic attack and advanced countermeasures to maximise lethality and survivability. The arrival of the final nine aircraft also demonstrates an enhancement of the warfighting capability of Australia's F-35A fleet, with these aircraft the first in the fleet to receive Technology Refresh 3, enabling Block 4 upgrades that will support the new and enhanced capabilities required to meet the evolving threats of the future. This important milestone concludes a year in which accelerated capability delivery for the ADF was pushed to the forefront with the elevation of the Defence Industry portfolio to Cabinet. ADF capability delivery over the course of calendar year 2024 includes: Three new missile types fired from Navy ships for the first time, including the Tomahawk guided missile, Standard Missile 6 and the Naval Strike Missile. Construction commenced on the first Hunter Class Frigate; Two shipbuilders were selected to progress designs for Australia's general-purpose frigate, a new program announced in 2024 following the recommendations of the Surface Fleet Review; The Navy took delivery of the first prototype of Ghost Shark, an autonomous robotic undersea vehicle; A ship design was selected for the new Landing Craft Heavy; 46 new M1A2 Abrams main battle tanks were delivered for use by the Army; 7 new UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters were delivered to Australia from the United States, taking the total of Australian Army Black Hawk helicopters to 10. More helicopters will be delivered in 2025; Construction work began on a $200 million deep maintenance facility at RAAF Edinburgh for the ADF's Boeing 737 variants; Australia took possession of its first Triton remotely piloted aircraft system, delivered from the United States; The 2024-25 Budget saw Defence funding increase to $764.6 billion over the decade to support a more capable and self-reliant ADF that can safeguard Australia's security into the future. This builds on a record of delivery in financial year 2023-24, where Defence's achieved acquisition result was the largest on record at $16.6 billion, with an estimated 54 per cent of funding contributing to Australian industry. Sustainment over the same period was more than $16.4 billion, with an estimated 79 per cent of funding contributing to Australian industry. The Albanese Government's commitment to Defence is an investment in a future made in Australia - ensuring we keep Australians safe, while delivering jobs and opportunities right across the country for decades to come. Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy: "The Albanese Government is delivering the capabilities the ADF needs to make Australians safer and strengthening our sovereign defence industry to deliver jobs and a future made in Australia. "It is also important to pay tribute to thousands of uniformed ADF members, members of the Australian public service and workers in the Australian defence industry who all play a vital role in the defence of our nation." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese media launch campaign to foster US 'friendship and trust' The state media campaign comes as China prepares for a second Trump term. By Alan Lu 2024.12.29 TAIPEI, Taiwan -- Chinese state media has launched a campaign to highlight friendly cooperation with the United States in an attempt to improve turbulent ties as a new administration under Donald Trump prepares to take office, an analyst said. The state-run People's Daily and Global Times, which often carry searing criticism of the U.S., called on Dec. 25 for written work, photos and videos from people and organizations around the world with the aim of "bridging cultural differences and fostering friendship and trust" with the U.S. "What they are doing now is part of the latest efforts by the Chinese government to foster a more collaborative relationship with the Trump administration," Li Wei-Ping, a researcher with Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, told Radio Free Asia. President-elect Donald Trump has made no secret of his plans to hit China with massive tariffs and experts say his second presidency looks set to become dominated by a grand rebalancing of trade ties. Li said that China has been working to steer its relations with the U.S. in a more positive direction since Trump's election win, with remarks by top officials such as Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the tone of state media editorials. Wang, in a Dec. 27 commentary in the state-run Study Times, urged the new U.S. administration to "make the right choices" by working with China and "striving for stable, healthy, and sustainable development in Sino-U.S. relations." Xinhua News Agency, in a Dec. 28 editorial , also extolled people-to-people exchanges such as tourism in fostering relations. "The talk, the articles, and the campaign ... could be deemed as a whole as an indication that the Chinese government is preparing for the Trump administration 2.0.," said Li. Trump had also made friendly gestures to China such as his invitation to Chinese leader Xi Jinping to his inauguration in January, said Li, while noting that many factors could impact what had been a "turbulent" relationship in recent years. Trump has, for instance, nominated outspoken China critics to top jobs: Marco Rubio for secretary of state; Rep. Mike Waltz of Florida for national security adviser, and Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York as ambassador to the United Nations. Trump then announced on Dec. 9 he had picked three China trade hawks for top roles at the State Department, including Michael Anton, who has previously argued it is not in U.S. interests to defend Taiwan from an invasion by China. In early December, the Chinese Foreign Ministry called on the U.S. not to do anything to undermine Beijing's territorial claim on Taiwan, enshrined in its "one-China" principle. "I am hesitant to say the narrative has totally shifted and believe we need more time to see if this current amicability will last," Li said. Edited by Taejun Kang. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content December not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM expresses deep condolence over passing of former US president Jimmy Carter Global Times By Global Times Published: Dec 30, 2024 09:02 AM The Chinese side expresses deep condolences over the passing of former US president Jimmy Carter, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday. "Former president Carter was a key promoter and decision-maker in the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the US. He has made significant contributions over the years to the development of China-US relations and the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries," Mao said. Carter, the 39th president of the US, died at the age of 100. Carter was "surrounded by his family" at his home in Plains, Georgia, in his final moments, the Carter Center said in a statement on Sunday, according to CNN. US President Joe Biden remembered Carter as a "dear friend" and "extraordinary leader" in a statement on Sunday, while President-elect Donald Trump said Americans owe the former president "a debt of gratitude," according to CNN. According to a release from the White House, Biden said he will order an official state funeral to be held in Washington DC for Carter. Carter served as the 39th President of the US from 1977 to 1981, during which the US and China officially established diplomatic relations. During his presidency, he also facilitated the signing of the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, which was of significant importance to the Middle East peace process. After leaving office, Carter devoted himself to public service and philanthropy for many years, according to CCTV News. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on December 30, 2024 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: December 30, 2024 19:42 CCTV: A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on December 17, causing severe damage to buildings in the capital city Port Vila and other places. It's reported that China has sent engineering experts to carry out post-disaster assessment in Vanuatu. Can you give us more details? Mao Ning: In the wake of the earthquake in Vanuatu, China has taken active actions and provided disaster relief assistance for Vanuatu. At the request of the government of Vanuatu, four Chinese earthquake engineering experts have arrived in the capital city Port Vila of Vanuatu on December 30. They will look at the structure and assess the safety of buildings in hard-hit areas and conduct post-quake secondary disaster survey. This is the first post-disaster assessment team that China has sent to a Pacific island country. China is ready to do more to assist the post-disaster reconstruction effort in Vanuatu. The Chinese government stands ready to continue providing relevant assistance to Vanuatu in light of the situation on the ground and actual needs. AFP: Former US President Jimmy Carter, who with Deng Xiaoping helped establish formal diplomatic ties between Washington and the People's Republic of China, has died at the age of 100. Does China have any comment on the former US President's death? Mao Ning: China extends deep condolences on the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter. We pay high tribute to President Carter. He was a driving force and the decision-maker in the establishment of diplomatic ties between the US and China, and made important contribution over the years to the bilateral relationship and friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Yomiuri Shimbun: This year marks the 75th anniversary of the China-DPRK diplomatic relations and also the "China-DPRK Friendship Year" as announced by the two countries. What events did China take part in? How would you review the "China-DPRK Friendship Year?" The opening ceremony of the friendship year was held in Pyongyang in April this year. Why wasn't there a closing ceremony? Mao Ning: China and the DPRK are friendly neighbors and always enjoy a traditional friendship and cooperative ties. China stands ready to work with the DPRK to follow the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries and to maintain, consolidate and develop our bilateral relations. China Daily: Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi last week, and they had an in-depth exchange of views on the situation in the Middle East. The turbulence and instability in the region this year has drawn worldwide attention. Can you elaborate on China's position on the Middle East issue and the role China has played? Mao Ning: During the talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister Wang Yi put forward "four respects" on the Middle East issue, namely, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Middle East countries needs to be respected, their legitimate and reasonable concerns need to be respected, the choice independently made by Middle East people need to be respected, and the historical and cultural traditions of Middle East countries need to be respected. Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed that the Middle East belongs to the people in the region. It is not a wrestling ground for major-power rivalry, nor should it become a victim of geopolitical contest of countries outside the region. To end the instability and restore order in the Middle East, the pressing priority is to end the fighting and violence at once, ease the humanitarian crisis, stick to political settlement, and resume dialogue and negotiations. This is the basic position of China on the Middle East issue. Over the past year, we have galvanized effort at the UN Security Council to adopt the first resolution on ceasefire in Gaza, brought Palestinian factions together for reconciliation talks which resulted in the adoption of the Beijing declaration, provided multiple batches of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, spoken up for Lebanon at the UN and other multilateral occasions, made consistent effort to advance the reconciliation process between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and supported regional countries in settling differences with an inclusive mind, enhancing mutual trust through cooperation, and building a sustainable security architecture in the Middle East. There will not be tranquility in the world with a Middle East in turmoil. China will continue to play a constructive role in upholding peace and stability in the Middle East, and firmly support countries in the region in exploring development path independently, settling issues through dialogue and consultation, and safeguarding sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. AFP: Yesterday, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the acting South Korean President on the Jeju Air crash that killed 179 people. Would the Foreign Ministry like to comment further on China's reaction to the fatal plane crash in Muan, South Korea? Mao Ning: We are following the tragic air crash in the ROK, which resulted in heavy fatalities. President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to the ROK's Acting President Choi Sang-mok on the day the accident happened. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, President Xi expressed deep condolences over the death of the victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families, and wished the injured a speedy recovery. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China unveils new assault ship and futuristic fighter jets By William Yang December 30, 2024 Days after unveiling the latest breakthroughs in its military modernization, the Chinese navy has set afloat a new amphibious assault ship that could launch fighter jets, and videos have been circulating online showing what seems to be China's new generation of stealth fighter jets. On Sunday, China's first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, left the dockyard in Shanghai after the People's Liberation Army Navy, or PLA Navy, launched it into the water at a ceremony last Friday. The ship, which has a full load displacement of more than 40,000 tons, features a double island superstructure, a full-length flight deck, and an electromagnetic catapult system, which allows it to launch fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. In addition to the catapult system, the Sichuan has arresting technology that allows fighter jets to land on its deck. With its large displacement, the vessel "can carry more weapons and equipment, has longer range and stronger combat capabilities," Chinese military expert Zhang Junshe told Chinese state-run Global Times. Zhang added that the Sichuan "has outstanding capabilities in air superiority and land assault missions" because the electromagnetic catapult system offers higher launch efficiency and faster launch speed. The PLA Navy said the Sichuan is a "key asset" for enhancing the Chinese Navy's long-range operational capabilities and facilitating its ongoing transformation. Other analysts say Beijing wants to project military power "beyond its shores" through the launch of the Sichuan. The launch is intended "to intimidate neighbors or ensure the PLA has the capability to land a large invasion force on Taiwan," Drew Thompson, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore and a former Pentagon official, said in a written response to VOA. In combat scenarios, experts say the Sichuan could be paired up with China's aircraft carrier groups. "The Chinese military could use the Sichuan to deploy drones during the first wave of attack and then deploy larger fighter jets from its aircraft carriers later," Su Tzu-yun, a military expert at the Taipei-based Institute for National Defense and Security Research, told VOA by phone. Chinese military analyst Song Zhongping said the Sichuan could be used in the South China Sea, East China Sea, or a potential military conflict against Taiwan. "If [China] takes military actions against Taiwan, [Beijing] will use whatever weapons it possesses, including the Type 075 amphibious assault ship and the Type 076 amphibious assault ship," he told VOA. Since its establishment in 1949, the People's Republic of China has never ruled Taiwan, but it views the democratically governed island as its own territory and has vowed to bring Taiwan under its control, even by force. The launch of the Sichuan reflects China's ongoing efforts to rapidly expand the number of its naval vessels in recent years. "The Chinese have been producing ships at an unprecedented rate and you can't say the same of the United States' shipbuilding rate," said Collin Koh, a maritime security expert at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. In terms of numbers, the PLA navy has a bigger fleet than the U.S. Navy, and its capabilities are confined in one theater, he adds. "A growing PLA Navy that is operationally more focused on the theater is likely going to have a certain advantage over the U.S. Navy that is still considered having to bear with various global responsibilities other than this part of the world," Koh told VOA by phone. A new generation of fighter jets In addition to the launch of the new amphibious assault ship, several videos and images of two seemingly new Chinese stealth fighter jets flying in broad daylight were circulating online last Friday. The images and videos of the two fighter jets posted online have a triangular, tailless design typical to stealth fighter jets. The larger fighter jet, accompanied by China's J-20 stealth fighter jet, seems to have three air intakes for its engines, while the smaller fighter jet bears a more conventional layout. The Chinese government has yet to comment on the unnamed fighter jets featured in the videos, but analysts say their advanced designs show China is rapidly catching up with the U.S. and its Western allies. "Apart from trying to become a sea power, these seemingly new fighter jets show China also wants to eventually replace the U.S. as the leading air power in the world," Su in Taiwan told VOA. In his view, because the U.S. and its Western allies still control access to advanced semiconductor chips used in next-generation fighter jets, Washington needs to maintain strict export control of advanced semiconductor ships to China to stay ahead of the curve in the military aircraft arms race. "Imposing strict export control on advanced semiconductor ships will become the key geopolitical chokepoint that Washington can leverage against Beijing in the global arms race," Su said. VOA's Nike Ching and VOA Mandarin service reporter Lin Nai-chuan contributed to this story. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Sends Congratulatory Letter to Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, December 31 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, sent a congratulatory letter to Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, President of the Russian Federation, on December 30 on the occasion of the New Year 2025. The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un extended the warm New Year greetings to Putin, his dearest friend and comrade, offering warm greetings of best wishes to the fraternal Russian people and all the service personnel of the brave Russian army on behalf of himself, the Korean people and all the service personnel of the armed forces of the DPRK. Recalling the meaningful journey in 2024, which developed the traditional DPRK-Russia friendly relations into strategic cooperative and strong relations of a new high, he expressed his willingness to design and push ahead with new projects for accomplishing the cause of building powerful nation in the two countries and achieving people's wellbeing and prosperity by relying on the sincerest and warmest comradely trust, thereby further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the DPRK and Russia. Hoping that the New Year 2025 will be recorded as the first year of war victory in the 21st century when the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory, he wished Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin greater success in his responsible and heavy state leadership activities and the Russian people prosperity, wellbeing and happiness. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address MoD inks Rs 1,990 crore contract with MDL for construction of Air Independent Propulsion Plug for DRDO-AIP system & its integration to enhance endurance of conventional submarines India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Rs 877 crore contract signed with Naval Group, France for integration of Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo to augment fire power capabilities of Kalvari-Class submarines Posted On: 30 DEC 2024 4:50PM by PIB Delhi Ministry of Defence has signed two contracts, worth approx. Rs 2,867 crore, for the construction of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) Plug for DRDO-AIP system & its integration onboard Indian Submarines, and the integration of Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT) onboard the Kalvari-Class submarines. Both the contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on December 30, 2024. The contract for construction of AIP Plug and its integration was inked with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai worth around Rs 1,990 crore, while the contract for integration of EHWT, being developed by DRDO, was signed with Naval Group, France at an approx. cost of Rs 877 crore. The AIP technology is being indigenously developed by DRDO. The project pertaining to construction of AIP-Plug and its integration will enhance the endurance of conventional submarines and significantly contribute towards the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. It would generate employment of nearly three lakh man days. The integration of EHWT will be a collaborative effort by Indian Navy, DRDO and Naval Group, France. It would greatly augment the firepower capabilities of Kalvari Class submarines of the Indian Navy. ***** SR/Savvy (Release ID: 2088874) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mastering frontier technologies is need of the hour; Military training centres readying our soldiers to deal with future challenges: Raksha Mantri at Army War College, Mhow India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence "Through integration & jointness, Armed Forces will be able to face challenges together in a more efficient way" Posted On: 30 DEC 2024 1:00PM by PIB Delhi "Mastering frontier technologies in today's constantly-evolving times is the need of the hour, and the military training centres are playing a crucial role in equipping & readying our soldiers to deal with future challenges," said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the officers at the Army War College (AWC) in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh on December 30, 2024. Highlighting the radical changes being witnessed in the ways of warfare, he stated that unconventional methods like information warfare, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, proxy warfare, electro-magnetic warfare, space warfare and cyber attacks are posing a big challenge in today's times. Raksha Mantri stressed on the need for the military to remain well-trained and equipped to deal with such challenges, lauding the training centres in Mhow for their valuable contribution in these efforts. He commended the centres for constantly improving their training curriculum, in sync with the changing times, and striving to make the personnel fighting fit for every kind of challenge. Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government's vision of making the country Viksit Bharat by 2047, describing the current phase as a transition period. "India is constantly moving on the path of development and is rapidly emerging as a manufacturing hub. From a military point of view, we are getting equipped with modern weapons. We are also exporting Made-in-India equipment to other countries. Our defence exports, which were around Rs 2,000 crores a decade ago, have crossed the record figure of Rs 21,000 crore today. We have set an export target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029," he added. Raksha Mantri reasserted the Government's resolve to strengthen integration and jointness among the three services, exuding confidence that, in the times to come, the Armed Forces will be able to face challenges together in a better and more efficient way. He appreciated the fact that high-level training is provided to officers of all wings in Mhow Cantonment. He urged the officers to explore the possibility of promoting integration through training in areas such as weapons training in Infantry School; AI & Communication Technology in Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE); and Leadership - Junior and Senior Command in AWC. Shri Rajnath Singh added that some officers will work as defence attaches in the future, and they should strive to secure national interests at the global level. "When you take up this post of Defence Attaches, you should imbibe the Government's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Only through self-reliance can India strengthen its defence capabilities and gain more respect on the world stage," he added. Raksha Mantri voiced the Government's unwavering commitment to make India one of the strongest economic and military powers in the world. "Economic prosperity is possible only when full attention is paid to security. Similarly, the security system will be robust only when the economy is strong. Both complement each other. By 2047, we will not only become a developed nation, but our Armed Forces will also be one of the most modern and strongest militaries in the world," he said. Shri Rajnath Singh also urged the officers to internalise Dr BR Ambedkar's values of dedication and spirit. He described Baba Saheb as not just the architect of the Indian constitution, but also a visionary guide, reiterating the Government's commitment to introduce his values and ideals to the people, especially the youth. Commending the Armed Forces for securing the borders & being the first responders during natural disasters, Raksha Mantri said: "This dedication to protect the nation and this spirit to keep ourselves updated in a constantly-changing world can take us ahead of others." At AWC, Shri Rajnath Singh was briefed by Commandant Lt Gen HS Sahi on the role and significance of the institute towards training and empowering military leaders for warfighting across the entire spectrum of conflict. He was briefed upon the significant steps in training methodology through jointness in multi-domain operations, infusion of technology in training curriculum and exchange programmes being undertaken with academia, universities and industries alongwith training of CAPF officers. He was also briefed on the global footprints of the institute achieved through training the officers from friendly countries and contributing immensely towards military diplomacy. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials of the Indian Army were present on the occasion. Earlier, Raksha Mantri laid a wreath and paid homage to the bravehearts at the Infantry Memorial. On December 29, 2024, Raksha Mantri visited AWC, MCTE, Infantry School and the Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow. He stated that all these establishments together create a confluence of the country's golden past and a strong, prosperous & bright future. He described the Quantum Technology Lab and AI lab operating in MCTE as a positive step towards achieving the objective of Adaptive Warfare. ******* SR/Savvy (Release ID: 2088821) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address No change in Iran's nuclear doctrine: Official IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran said that according to the opinion of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said that there has been no change in the nuclear doctrine of the Islamic Republic of Iran. On a trip to Tehran, Seyyed Badr Al-Busaidi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Oman, met and talked with Ali Akbar Ahmadian, the representative of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution and the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. Referring to the long history of relations between the two countries, the two sides discussed bilateral issues and regional developments and focused on increasing the level of relations in various fields, including the political, security, and economic fields, and promoting transit projects between the two countries. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran criticizes Afghanistan for constructing Pashdan Dam on Harirud IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The spokesman of Iran's water industry, Issa Bozorgzadeh, has said that the unilateral use of the Harirud River constitutes a violation of customary rights, noting that the construction of Pashdan Dam by the Afghan side will not only impact the drinking water supply and health of millions of people, but it will also result in significant harm to the downstream environment. Bozorgzadeh said on Monday that the construction and impoundment of the Pashdan dam in the Harirud border basin are causing reduced natural flow in the Harirud border river, adding that this situation has led to social and environmental issues, particularly affecting the drinking water supply for the holy city of Mashhad in Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran. He noted the deep economic, social, and cultural connections between Mashhad and Herat, adding, "We believe that everyone living in a watershed shares the same fate. Therefore, any strict measures or pressures applied to one segment of the watershed's population will inevitably impact all residents." He stated that Iran has consistently lodged its official protests through diplomatic channels regarding the negative cross-border impacts caused by the unilateral construction of dams by Afghanistan in the Harirud basin and urges joint cooperation to assess and mitigate these effects, advocating for sustainable development rather than destructive practices. He added, "We still believe that the one-sided and non-participatory exploitation of the water resources of the Harirud basin is not beneficial to any of the countries in the upstream and downstream." Bozorgzadeh highlighted the importance of adhering to the explicit provisions of international water law in the joint utilization of the Harirud border river's water, stating, "It is expected that the authorities in Afghanistan will, in accordance with customary international law and the principles of good neighborliness and friendly relations between our two countries, collaborate and take the necessary steps to ensure the rational and fair use of the Harirud river's water upstream. This should be done in a manner that respects and does not infringe upon the historical and customary rights of the downstream regions." 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's nuclear doctrine intact: Security chief Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 9:29 PM Iran's security chief says the Islamic Republic's nuclear doctrine of pursuing peaceful energy and opposing pursuance of atomic weapons has remained "unchanged." Ali-Akbar Ahmadian, head of the country's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), made the remarks on Monday, meeting with Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi in the Iranian capital Tehran. "Based on the relevant observation of Iran's Leader Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the country's nuclear doctrine has remained unchanged," he said. 'Birth of new resistance' The official further noted that with the occupation of Syria's territories by the Israeli regime, a new form of resistance has been born that proves itself in the upcoming years. The remarks came amid the regime's intensified deadly attacks against the Arab country's military and civilian infrastructures in the run-up and the aftermath of its takeover by Western- and Israeli-backed militants earlier this month. Also on Monday, Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI), the West "had problems with the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad due to his support for Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution." "If they had problems with Assad's establishment, those problems were not with Assad's person and his family due to his companionship with Iran's Islamic Revolution," he noted. "Therefore, the Revolution's companions should know this that one must remain steadfast in its struggle in support of the elements of their power, and transfer this perseverance to future generations too." Eslami, meanwhile, asserted that Iran remained commuted to the general frameworks of its agreements with Oman, which have been signed with the aim of expanding cooperation between the nations across various areas." He added that the ball rested in the counterparty's court so it would act upon its obligations in this regard too. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Islamabad, Afghan Taliban Locked In Stalemate Over Pakistani Militants By Abubakar Siddique December 30, 2024 The latest Pakistani air strikes inside Afghanistan have rekindled tensions between Afghanistan's Taliban rulers and Islamabad, who were once former allies. While Pakistan has said it was targeting militant hideouts, Taliban officials said the December 24 attacks killed some 50 civilians. The Afghan Defense Ministry vowed that it "will not leave this despicable act unanswered." Taliban officials said most of the victims were ethnic Pashtun refugees from Pakistan's Waziristan region and were targeted just across the border in Barmal, a district in the southeastern Afghan province of Paktika. Pakistan defended the air strikes, saying its security forces acted along its western border with Afghanistan to "protect Pakistani people from terrorists." Pakistani authorities have repeatedly blamed the Taliban, the militant group that claimed power again in Afghanistan in August 2021, for providing "hideouts and sanctuaries" to the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an Islamist militant group designated a terrorist organization by the United States. The TTP is banned in Pakistan and seeks to overthrow the government in Islamabad. Experts say the latest tensions are indicative of the deadlock between the two neighbors, despite Islamabad's past support for Taliban militants. "The Taliban and Pakistan are in a bind over the TTP," says Sami Yousafzai, a veteran Afghan journalist and commentator. "Both have no good options and face dilemmas." Following the militant group's return to power in 2021, the Taliban government facilitated peace talks between Islamabad and the TTP. But the truce it brokered failed in November 2022. Since then, the Taliban has resisted Pakistani demands to go after its longtime ideological and organizational ally, the TTP, by expelling it from Afghanistan or pressuring it to surrender to Islamabad. Pakistan has accused the Taliban of supporting terrorism by backing the TTP. In Pakistan, the TTP has waged a violent campaign to reestablish control in the country's western border regions abutting Afghanistan. For the last two decades, TTP militants have controlled parts of this region, fighting an ongoing battle against the Pakistani military. Hundreds of Pakistani security forces have been killed in the TTP attacks, while local civilians have suffered under the militant group's draconian rule. On December 21, the TTP claimed credit for killing 16 soldiers in South Waziristan. The Taliban government is reluctant to move against the TTP, Yousafzai says, because the militant group's presence in Afghanistan is "just one part of a very complicated problem." Yousafzai says Islamabad's demand that the Afghan Taliban solve the TTP issue "is not practical" because of the high anti-Pakistan sentiment among Afghans. "The Taliban is keen on ridding itself of the label that it once served Islamabad's interests," he says. Islamabad partnered with Washington in its war on terror after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington. But Pakistan also provided clandestine support to the Taliban insurgency that ultimately toppled the pro-Western Afghan republic. This has won Pakistan few friends among Afghans, who blame Islamabad for their country's troubles. Ihsanullah Tipu Mehsud, news director at the Khorasan Diary, a website tracking militant groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan, says there is now little convergence of interests between the Taliban and Pakistan. "Islamabad has exhausted all of its options to pressure the Taliban," he says. The December 24 strikes were the fourth time Pakistani jets have bombed targets inside Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Since October 2023, Islamabad has expelled nearly 1 million undocumented Afghans. Pakistan has said those Afghans were living in the country illegally. Some of those expelled went to their ancestral villages, including in Paktika. Pakistan has repeatedly closed its seaport and border crossings for trade with landlocked Afghanistan, further squeezing the country's struggling economy under the Taliban. "None of these tactics has worked in the past, and it is unlikely to pressure the Taliban to abandon the TTP now," he said. Mehsud says many in the Taliban feel "strongly obliged" to help the TTP, because it fought against the Pakistani military in the past to protect the Taliban and hosted their leaders and members while they were in exile in the country. "They are brothers in arms because of the ideological and ethnic relations," he says. Successive TTP leaders have pledged religious allegiance to the Taliban leaders, who preach an ultra-conservative form of Islam. Leaders of both groups are ethnic Pashtuns and have deep personal ties. Islamabad has also claimed a growing number of Afghans are fighting for the TTP. There is little hope that the impasse between the two sides can be solved anytime soon. "The Afghan Taliban is likely to push for gaining something major for the TTP, such as a formal recognition of its control over some region in Pakistan," Mehsud says. But he sees Islamabad as unwilling to make such sweeping concessions. Residents of Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, where the TTP is most active, have held demonstrations against the militant group's return. "Pakistan is likely to continue diplomatic engagement with the Taliban and kinetic actions against the TTP simultaneously," he said. On December 24, Pakistan's special representative to Afghanistan, Mohammad Sadiq, held talks with senior Taliban officials as his country's military bombed alleged TTP hideouts inside the country. Carrying out air strikes while diplomatic efforts are ongoing demonstrates Islamabad's "complete disregard for another nation's prestige and sovereignty," says Obaidullah Baheer, visiting fellow at the South Asia Center at the London School of Economics. He says Islamabad needs a "very clear strategy" for dealing with the TTP, because it cannot expect the Afghan Taliban to make an enemy out of its ally. Another consideration, Baheer says, is that the Taliban fears pushing the TTP into the arms of Islamic State-Khorasan. The ultraradical group, a Taliban archenemy, claimed responsibility for killing a Taliban minister on December 11. "The TTP is probably the only leverage the Taliban has over Pakistan," Baheer says. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pakistan-afghanistan- taliban-tpp-deadlock/33255351.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Militancy surge in Pakistan kills 1,600 civilians, security forces By Ayaz Gul December 30, 2024 A new report on Monday said escalating terrorist bombings and gun attacks in Pakistan resulted in the deaths of more than 1,600 civilians and security personnel in 2024. An independent think tank based in Islamabad released its annual report amid a wave of deadly violence in the country, primarily affecting the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces bordering Afghanistan. Pakistan asserts that outlawed transnational groups have orchestrated violence from Afghan sanctuaries, with their activities intensifying since the Taliban's August 2021 takeover of the neighboring country. The Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) stated in its Monday report that 60% of the overall casualties in 2024 were among civilians. It noted that the Pakistani military, intelligence, police and other law enforcement agencies "suffered the highest number of terror attacks and fatalities in a decade." According to the report, 685 security personnel have been killed since January 1, the most since Pakistan lost nearly 800 security personnel in militant attacks and counterterrorism operations in 2014. The resurgence of militancy is attributed to two key groups: Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Both organizations, designated as international terrorist organizations by the United Nations and the United States, routinely claim attacks staged against security forces and other targets. TTP is active mainly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while BLA and its allied ethnic Baloch separatist groups conduct insurgent attacks in Balochistan. While the Pakistani government did not immediately respond to the report, an army spokesman addressed a live televised news conference on Friday, revealing that "383 brave officers and soldiers were martyred" during counterterrorism operations across Pakistan in 2024. He did not, however, provide further details. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Counter Terrorism Department released a statement Monday reporting that militant attacks and security operations against insurgents resulted in the deaths of nearly 150 provincial police force members, with an additional 230 sustaining injuries. CRSS has documented approximately 250 fatalities among Pakistani security forces, including troops, in Balochistan alone. Remaining fatalities were attributed to Punjab and Sindh provinces, as well as other regions. The nonprofit think tank stated that its report was based on open-source data and official statements. It routinely publishes reports highlighting the security situation in Pakistan and says on its website that the organization is working to promote research and nonpartisan analysis. The Taliban government has denied allegations that Afghan soil is being utilized by individuals permitted to threaten neighboring countries, including Pakistan. Last week, Taliban authorities announced that Pakistani jets had struck several locations within the eastern Afghan border province of Paktika, claiming the strikes resulted in nearly 50 fatalities. The statement identified victims as "refugees" from Pakistan. While Islamabad has refrained from publicly responding to the alleged airstrikes, Pakistani security officials instantly provided anonymous confirmation of the cross-border bombardment, stating that the strikes targeted TTP hideouts, resulting in the elimination of over two dozen key militants and training infrastructure. The Taliban's Defense Ministry on Saturday issued a statement claiming that its border forces retaliated by striking several targets on the Pakistani side of the border. Independent examination of both Pakistani and Afghan claims remains inconclusive. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Korea's joint investigation unit seeks arrest warrant for president Yoon People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:34, December 30, 2024 SEOUL, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's joint investigation unit said Monday that it sought a warrant to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol over his martial law imposition. The investigation unit, consisting of Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, National Office of Investigation and the defense ministry's investigation headquarters, said in a short notice that it requested the arrest warrant for Yoon at midnight to the Seoul Western District Court. It marked the first time in the country's modern history that an arrest warrant has been filed against an incumbent president. The unit asked Yoon to appear for questioning three times on Dec. 18, Dec. 25 and Dec. 29, but Yoon's side refused to receive summons while having yet to submit documents for the appointment of his defense counsel. Yoon was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on insurrection charge. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Korean court issues arrest warrant for Yoon By William Gallo December 30, 2024 A South Korean court has approved an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces insurrection charges over his attempt to impose martial law earlier this month. The Seoul Western District Court issued the warrant on Tuesday, marking the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced arrest, according to local media. Yoon was impeached in mid-December, suspending his presidential powers while the Constitutional Court reviews the case. In addition to impeachment, Yoon is being investigated for insurrection and abuse of power by a joint government investigation team. Authorities sought the arrest warrant after Yoon ignored three summonses for questioning. Yoon's legal team has refused to cooperate with the investigation, arguing that the impeachment trial should take priority over any criminal proceedings. It is not clear when any arrest attempt will be made or how aggressive authorities will be in attempting to execute the warrant. The Presidential Security Service has so far prevented investigators from entering the presidential office compound or Yoon's official residence for court-approved searches, citing security and military considerations. South Korean presidents are generally immune from prosecution while in office, except for cases involving rebellion or treason. Yoon declared martial law on December 3 - the first such decree since South Korea became a democracy in the 1980s - but lawmakers overturned the order within hours. Yoon has said the martial law declaration was necessary to send a "strong message" to his rivals, whom he accused of being North Korea sympathizers obstructing his agenda. The impeachment process is also filled with uncertainty. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to rule on Yoon's removal, but with three judicial seats vacant, all six remaining justices must unanimously agree to uphold the impeachment. Efforts to appoint new judges have stalled, with the opposition threatening to impeach successive acting presidents who refuse to approve them, fueling fears of a prolonged political deadlock that has already hurt South Korea's economy. Last week, the value of the South Korean won hit a 16-year low against the U.S. dollar, raising concerns about higher energy import costs and increased consumer prices. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Qalibaf: Iran seeks to establish security in Syria IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- In a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Oman, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stressed the strengthening of strategic, trade and tourism relations between the two countries, and said that Iran definitely seeks to establish security in Syria. Saying that the Islamic Republic is definitely seeking to establish security in Syria, Qalibaf reminded that the synergy of Muslim countries can have a significant effect on establishing security and stability in the region. Qalibaf described the relations between Iran and Oman as favorable, and said, "However, it is necessary to develop bilateral relations in the political and economic fields according to the existing facilities and capacities." Referring to the current situation in the region, Qalibaf said that the Zionist regime started its crimes with genocide in Gaza, followed by a 2-month invasion of Lebanon, and today it has taken military measures in Yemen. "This is despite the fact that their actions are carried out with the full support of the US president and other western countries, and in this way they have targeted the infrastructure of the countries in the region with their military actions," he added. Leading a high-ranking political and economic delegation, Badr Al-Busaidi arrived in Tehran earlier in the day for discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and addressing regional developments. The visit, made at the invitation of Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is expected to cover the latest developments in bilateral ties and key regional issues. During his stay, the Omani foreign minister is also scheduled to meet with other senior Iranian political and economic officials for further dialogue and collaboration. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran, Oman stress need for inclusive government in Syria IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Dec 30, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran and Muscat agree on the need for the establishment of an inclusive government in Syria. During a press conference with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi in Tehran on Monday, Araghchi said they had extensive discussions on Syria and agreed on the need to preserve its territorial integrity, unity, and respect for all ethnicities and religions. "Iran's positions have much in common with Oman and most countries in the region, and we all want independence and stability in Syria," he said. On regional issues, Araghchi and Al Busaidi expressed aligned views. They called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the opening of humanitarian aid corridors. On Yemen, Araghchi condemned US and Israeli actions, reaffirmed Iran's support for Yemen's territorial integrity, and stressed the importance of resuming peace talks to prevent further conflict. Araghchi clarified that no messages were exchanged with the US during this visit, stating that Oman has played a key role in facilitating communication in past nuclear negotiations, but currently, necessary messages are conveyed via the Swiss Embassy. The Monday talks between the two diplomats also highlighted the growing relations between Iran and Oman. Araghchi noted that trade between the two countries tripled between 2020 and 2023, reaching $2.5 billion last year. He announced plans for an economic commission meeting in Muscat next month to further enhance bilateral ties. For his part, Al Busaidi highlighted the historical depth of Iran-Oman relations and delivered a written message from Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to Iranian officials, emphasizing continued consultations and cooperation. He reiterated Oman's commitment to a policy of non-interference, particularly in Syria, and its support for Syria's sovereignty and regional role. "We seek to align efforts within the [Persian] Gulf Cooperation Council to support Syria's independence and promote common goals," he said. 4354**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address HTS in Syria gives foreign mercenaries key roles in military: Report Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 7:18 PM The new rulers in the Arab country have reportedly installed certain foreign militants, including Uyghurs, a Jordanian, and a Turk, to their military apparatus. Two Syrian sources told Reuters that out of a total of almost 50 military roles announced by the defense ministry of the HTS administration on Sunday, at least six had gone to foreign nationals. Pundits believe that the move to assign official roles, including high-ranking ones, to several militants could alarm some foreign governments and Syrian citizens fearful about the intentions of the new rulers in Syria. Thousands of foreigners joined militant groups in Syria when the crisis began in 2011. On December 8, militants, led by the HTS, took control of Damascus and declared an end to President Bashar al-Assad's rule in a surprise offensive that was launched from their stronghold in northwestern Syria, reaching the capital in less than two weeks. The HTS administration has repeatedly claimed they would respect the rights of all sects and religions in Syria. The situation, however, remains very fluid and fragile, with a potential risk of further clashes as sectarian sentiments continue to boil over, amid the ongoing political instability and pressures on minority groups. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria resistance calls for stopping 'terrorist administration's crimes', warns HTS of surprises Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 10:12 AM The newly-formed Syrian resistance front has issued its first statement against the new rulers in the Arab country, arguing that the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is exercising the "Wahhabi law of swords on necks." The resistance front, in a statement released on Sunday, stated that the HTS administration has perpetrated various malicious acts, including thefts, violations of human rights, violent riots, corruption, chaos, sabotage and destruction of public properties ever since it took over the capital Damascus on December 8. "We have also seen the Hollywood films they made in the Saydnaya prison to draw public opinion and popular support, manipulating the minds of those who believed in naivety and shared the lies," the statement read. The statement added they were assisted in their disinformation campaign by Israeli media outlets and certain channels from the Persian Gulf region, forgetting about the plight of Palestinian prisoners in the Israeli regime's detention centers, and the ongoing war of extermination in Gaza. "We expected from day one that the future of Syria after 12/8 would be dark for its people, and we said that the Wahhabi law of swords on necks" had come, it said. "Some believed us at the time, while others continued to dance in delight at the imaginary 'freedom' to the tunes of the Israeli bombing that did not stop for several nights, coinciding with an Israeli incursion and violation of the territorial integrity and national sovereignty," it added. The statement further noted that the HTS administration utterly disregarded Israeli bombardments, until Maher Marwan, appointed as governor of Damascus after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government, announced a few days ago that the new rulers in Syria have no issues with the occupying Tel Aviv regime, and are ready to receive and implement orders from the Zionist entity. "Indeed, the Zionist 'Wahhabi' project began killing the sons of the Syrian nation in the streets, homes and farms with the bullets of the HTS administration, the government of terrorist gangs, unjustly and aggressively, without any legitimate religious or legal justifications. "The decision to shed human blood is made by asking a question or by looking at an identity, and starving and besieging residential areas and bombing them with the children, women inside under the pretext of pursuing the remnants of the [Assad] regime. What kind of remnants are these and what false pretexts make you bomb homes over the heads of their inhabitants? "There is nothing strange about these actions because whoever taught under Zionist and Takfiri ideologies will do whatever the Israeli military does in occupied Palestine, where the forces bomb a building populated by civilians and kill several civilians under the pretext of pursuing resistance fighters," the statement went on to say. The Syrian resistance front underlined that the insistence of armed gangs affiliated with the HTS administration in committing massacres against Syrian people will be met with targeting terrorist elements and leaders. The front also stated that it has many surprises in store, and young Syrians are capable of reaching out to the HTS rulers in the middle of Damascus. "We call on all concerned parties inside and outside Syria to force the terrorist administration represented by Abu Mohammad al-Julani to stop its criminal operations against the Syrian people, so that a bloodbath does not occur, which is now just around the corner with the escalation of their terrorism and criminality. "We are still waiting for the bloodshed to stop so that we won't be branded as instigators of sedition. We only want Syria to be Arab and independent, as it was for all strata of our society," it stated. Militants, led by HTS, took control of Damascus on December 8 and declared an end to Assad's rule in a surprise offensive that was launched from their stronghold in northwestern Syria, reaching the capital in less than two weeks. The HTS administration has repeatedly claimed they would respect the rights of all sects and religions in Syria. The situation, however, remains very fluid and fragile, with a potential risk of further clashes as sectarian sentiments continue to boil over, amid the ongoing political instability and pressures on minority groups. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran, Oman urge independence, stability, inclusive government in Syria Iran Press TV Monday, 30 December 2024 10:06 AM Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Iran and Oman as well as the majority of countries in the region have commonalities on the regional issues and all call for the promotion of independence and stability in Syria. Araghchi made the remarks in a joint press conference with Oman's Foreign Minister Said Badr al-Busaidi in Tehran on Monday after the two top diplomats held detailed talks about the latest developments in the region and ways to expand mutual relations. "We have consensus on maintenance of territorial integrity and unity, respect for all ethnics and religions and the formation of an inclusive government in Syria," the Iranian minister said. Iran's positions have much in common with Oman and most of the countries in the region, and we all want independence and stability in Syria. Syria has been witnessing chaotic scenes after militants, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), took control of Damascus on December 8 and declared an end to former president Bashar al-Assad's rule in a surprise offensive that was launched from their stronghold in northwestern parts of the country, reaching the capital in less than two weeks. The HTS administration has repeatedly claimed they would respect the rights of all sects and religions in Syria. The situation, however, remains very fluid and fragile, with a potential risk of further clashes as sectarian sentiments continue to boil over, amid the ongoing political instability and pressures on minority groups. Araghchi further pointed to close stance and constant consultations between Iran and Oman on regional matters and said the two countries stress the need to establish an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and send aid to the war-ravaged Strip. At least 45,514 Palestinians, mostly children and women, have been killed and 108,189 people wounded in the war that Israel began on October 7, 2023 following a retaliatory operation by the Palestinian territory's resistance movements. Pointing to mutual talks about the developments in Yemen, the Iranian foreign minister said Tehran and Muscat condemn the joint attacks by the United States and the Israeli regime on the Yemeni territory. "We emphasize preserving Yemen's unity and territorial integrity and hope that the peace talks will resume and that we will prevent conspiracies that could lead to another war," Araghchi said. Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched a genocidal war on Gaza. The Yemeni Armed Forces have said that they would not stop their attacks until unrelenting Israeli ground and aerial offensives in Gaza end. Iran, Oman enjoy growing ties in various fields: Araghchi Elsewhere in the presser, Araghchi hailed "growing" relations between Tehran and Muscat in various fields and said a meeting of the two countries' joint economic committee would convene in Oman next month. He added that the volume of trade between the two countries has been tripled in the last Iranian calendar year (ended on March 19) in comparison with three years ago. The value of the two countries' trade in the last Iranian year reached 2.5 billion dollars, Araghchi noted. Oman FM carries no message from US for Iran: Araghchi Araghchi said the Omani government has always been ready to help boost Iran's ties with some countries and played a transparent role during the nuclear negotiations - that led to the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). He, however, clarified that no messages have been exchanged during Busaidi's current trip to Tehran. "We will continue to exchange the necessary messages with the American side at the appropriate time through the Swiss embassy," the top Iranian diplomat emphasized. Oman insists on strengthening cooperation with Iran: Busaidi The Omani foreign minister, for his part, said good talks with his Iranian counterpart in Tehran indicate deep-rooted mutual relations and added that his country insists on promoting cooperation with Iran to serve common interests. He noted that he conveyed a written message from Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in line with continued consultations on the expansion of ties. During the talks, Iran and Oman agreed to take new steps to increase trade interaction and facilitate transportation, he said. Like Iran, Oman supports the policy of non-interference in the countries' internal affairs, the Omani minister added. He stressed the need to preserve Syria's independence and territorial integrity and help the country play its international role. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN support continues in Syria and Lebanon 30 December 2024 - The UN Special Envoy for Syria continues to uphold the need for a Syrian-led transition in his ongoing talks on the way forward for the country. Geir Pedersen has been meeting with French, German and Russian authorities, the UN reported on Monday, which includes engagement with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin this past weekend. During all of these discussions, Mr. Pedersen reiterated the relevance of the core principles of Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015), which calls for constitutional reform, free and fair elections, and a Syrian-led inclusive political process. "His message remains consistent," UN Associate Spokesperson Florencia Soto Nino-Martinez told journalists in New York. She added that the Special Envoy also hopes to visit Syria early next year. Insecurity on the ground Meanwhile, humanitarians report that hostilities and insecurity continued to persist across Syria over the past week, including in Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia, Tartous, Rural Damascus, Deir-ez-Zor and Quneitra governorates. "Due to the tense security situation, humanitarian operations remain suspended in several areas," said Ms. Soto Nino-Martinez. Moreover, hostilities were reported in Deir-ez-Zor on Friday, approximately one kilometre from the UN offices there. Food assistance In an update on the humanitarian response, the UN reported that over 1.7 million people across Syria received bread assistance during the past month. A total of 265,109 people were provided with other food assistance, including ready-to-eat rations, hot and fresh meals, and food baskets. While schools have reopened across most governorates, the volatile security situation continues to affect children's school attendance in rural Hama, rural Quneitra, Latakia, and Tartous. Supporting Lebanese returnees The UN and partners also continue to provide support in neighbouring Lebanon as displaced people return to their homes. More than 800,000 have returned to their areas of origin since the cessation of hostilities was announced on 27 November, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). More than 160,000 people remain displaced however, while the situation remains fluid. Severe challenges persist due to devastated infrastructure, disrupted essential services, and ongoing security concerns, humanitarians said. In many cases, families attempting to return remain internally displaced within or near their communities as their homes have been destroyed or severely damaged. Additionally, more than 60 villages in southern Lebanon remain in areas where the Israeli Army is warning residents not to return. The UN recently launched a $426 million appeal for Lebanon which is currently 78 per cent funded even as needs remain high. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria's election timetable sparks debate By Sirwan Kajjo December 30, 2024 Syrians and legal experts have been reacting to comments by Syria's de facto leader that new elections following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad's regime could take four years and drafting a new constitution up to three years. In an interview with the Saudi news channel al-Arabiya, Ahmad al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, stated on Sunday that holding elections in Syria requires sufficient time to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive political process. His remarks ignited a debate among Syrians and legal experts who believe he and his group, Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), could exploit the transition period to consolidate their control over the country, or that the proposed timeline is realistic given Syria's fragmented state after more than a decade of conflict. HTS, formerly al-Qaida's branch in Syria, led the 11-day rebel offensive that toppled the Assad regime on Dec. 8. HTS has controlled an enclave in the country's northwestern province of Idlib in recent years. Anwar al-Bunni, co-founder and executive director of the Syrian Center for Legal Studies and Research, described the proposed timetable for a new constitution and elections as logical. "We cannot talk about a new constitution and elections while Syrians are scattered all over the world," he told VOA, referring to those Syrians who have been displaced due to the country's 13-year conflict. According to the United Nations, over 14 million Syrians have left their homes since 2011, with 7.2 million internally displaced, while nearly 5.5 million are refugees in neighboring countries and elsewhere. Bunni said Syrian refugees should return home to secure decent shelter and basic services, enabling them to contemplate and discuss their political future. "A 3- to 5-year period is realistic before Syrians are fully prepared to vote and participate in politics," he said. "We need an independent election commission and political parties, and for that to happen, you need a great deal of preparation." Ammar Abdulhamid, a Syrian American activist who serves as a parliamentarian and director of policy at the World Liberty Congress, agreed that a 4-year wait before holding elections was not unreasonable, "as long as the transitional government is sufficiently diverse, and the interim governance structure remains responsive to criticism while respecting basic human rights. "However, if this 4-year period is used to fill key positions and institutions with Islamist loyalists to HTS and Al-Sharaa, we may be looking at a planned takeover of governance a shift from one form of sectarian authoritarianism, justified in the name of protecting minorities, to another, justified by claims of majority entitlement," Abdulhamid wrote on X, adding that "the composition of the upcoming transitional government will be a key indicator of where things are headed." HTS has appointed a caretaker government composed of loyalists to manage affairs until March 1, 2025, the new government's own deadline for initiating a transitional process. In his al-Arabiya interview, al-Sharaa said a national dialogue conference, tentatively scheduled to be held in January, will determine the structure of the transitional government. Bunni said there must be a legal framework for the country to function in the transitional period, noting the need for a provisional constitution. Other experts argue that establishing a participatory system of governance for all Syrians should begin by including all stakeholders in the transitional process. "Syrians are not naive," said Bassam Alahmad, executive director of Syrians for Truth and Justice. "They know where HTS comes from, and they would want to ensure that they have a say during this crucial time." He told VOA he didn't believe Syrians were as overly concerned about the 4-year timetable. Instead, their focus was on what might unfold during that period. "If the HTS has the intention and political will to establish an inclusive system that allows all Syrians, including Kurds and other groups, to actively participate in their country's affairs now and in the future, I don't think people would mind if the process took a couple years," Alahmad said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Koreans kill themselves to avoid capture by Ukraine: US official The U.S. said Russian and North Korean military leaders are treating the troops as 'consumables.' By Taejun Kang for RFA 2024.12.29 TAIPEI, Taiwan -- Some North Korean soldiers are taking their own lives rather than surrender to Ukrainian forces in fighting in Russia's Kursk region, said a senior U.S. official, while Ukraine reported instances of the North Korean military "executing" its own troops to prevent their capture. The North Korean military has mounted a massive but "hopeless" attack on Ukrainian forces in Kursk on the orders of the Russian and North Korean military leadership, said White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby. "These North Korean soldiers appear to be highly indoctrinated, pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are futile," Kirby told a briefing on Friday. "We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces, likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in the event that they're captured." Kirby said North Korean human wave tactics "haven't really been all that effective." "In fact, we assess that they've resulted in heavy casualties for these North Korean forces. Our estimate is that, to date, they have suffered more than 1,000 killed or wounded in this particular fighting in just the past week," he added. Neither Russia nor North Korea have acknowledged that North Korean soldiers are even involved in the fighting in Kursk, let alone made any comment about casualties. Radio Free Asia was not able to independently verify accounts of the fighting and casualty estimates. Up to 12,000 North Korean soldiers are in Russia to support its war efforts against Ukraine in Kursk, Ukraine and the U.S. say, and Ukraine has reported more than 3,000 casualties among them. South Korea estimates at least 1,100 North Koreans have been killed or wounded. "It is clear that Russia and North Korean military leaders are treating the troops as consumables and ordering a hopeless attack on Ukraine," Kirby said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reported massive losses among North Korean soldiers in Kursk, saying that both Russia and North Korea had "no interest" in saving North Korean soldiers. "They have many losses. A great deal. And we can see that the Russian military and the North Korean enforcers have no interest in the survival of these Koreans at all," said Zelenskyy on Friday. "Everything is arranged in a way that makes it impossible for us to capture the Koreans as prisoners - their own people are executing them, there are such cases." The Ukrainian leader urged China to influence North Korea, emphasizing Beijing's responsibility to ensure the war in Ukraine does not escalate. "The Korean nation should not lose its people in the battles in Europe. And this can be influenced, particularly by Korea's neighbors, especially China," said Zelenskyy. "If China is sincere in its statements that the war should not escalate, it must exert appropriate pressure on Pyongyang," he added. China has not commented on North Korea's deployment except to say the development of relations between Russia and North Korea was solely for them to decide. But Kurt Campbell, the U.S. deputy secretary of state, said in November that China was increasingly uncomfortable about North Korea's engagement with Russia and found their growing cooperation unnerving. "The topic that is becoming increasingly uncomfortable for Chinese interlocutors is the DPRK engagement with Russia," said Cambell during a seminar at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington thinktank, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "In some of the discussions we have had it seems we are informing them of things that they were unaware of with regard to DPRK pursuits, and they are concerned that Russian encouragement might lead the DPRK to contemplate either actions or military actions that might not be in China's interests. "China has not weighed in directly to criticise Russia but we do believe that the increasing coordination between Pyongyang and Moscow is unnerving them." Edited by RFA Staff. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content December not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address December 30, 2024 By Matthew Olay, DOD News DOD Announces Additional Aid for Ukraine, Assesses 1,000 North Korean Casualties in Russia's Kursk Region The Defense Department today announced it will be providing close to $2.5 billion in additional new security assistance support to Ukraine intended to reaffirm the department's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. The latest aid package includes a $1.25 billion presidential drawdown authority package, as well as $1.22 billion in additional funds through the Ukrainian Security Assistance Initiative, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told members of the media this morning. "Together, these packages deliver critical capabilities such as air defense systems, munitions for artillery and rocket systems, anti-tank weapons, unmanned aerial systems and more," Singh said. She added that the aid packages mark the current administration's 73rd drawdown package and the 23rd package provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development. "[This assistance reflects] our continued efforts with our over 50 allies and partners through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to be successful on the battlefield and to defend its sovereignty," Singh said. Founded under the direction of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in response to Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, the UDCG is a coalition of some 50 nations that meet regularly to discuss Ukraine's security needs. Austin intends to convene the 25th meeting of the UDCG alongside Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in the new year where the capability coalitions will lay out their roadmaps toward "efficient and sustainable support for Ukraine," a senior defense official said earlier this month. When asked as to whether Austin intends to brief whomever the next administration's incoming defense secretary is regarding the value of assistance the UDCG provides to Ukraine, Singh said that while she can't speak for the incoming secretary and whether that person might request a conversation on the UDCG there are many people working within DOD who understand the importance of the group. "The UDCG continues to be a convening forum to work with allies and partners in finding and providing Ukraine with what it needs, and [who are] working together as multiple countries literally come around the table," Singh said. Also, during the briefing, Singh remarked that DOD concurs with a recent White House assessment of how many North Korean casualties there have been as a result of fighting against Ukraine in Russia's Kursk region. "The White House recently announced that approximately 1,000 [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] soldiers have either been killed or wounded in the Kursk region. That's our assessment as well," Singh said. She added that the assaults the North Korean soldiers are launching in the region are not proving significantly effective, and that the North Koreans are taking on a "significant amount" of casualties. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Newly Announced $5.9 Billion In U.S. Aid Comes At Critical Time For Ukraine, Zelenskiy Says By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service December 30, 2024 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said additional U.S. security assistance for Ukraine announced on December 30 comes at a critical moment and will help strengthen Ukrainian defenses along the front line. "Every act of solidarity from our partners saves lives, strengthens our independence, and reinforces our resilience. It also demonstrates that democracies are stronger than autocratic aggressors," Zelenskiy said on X after the United States announced $5.9 billion in a three-pronged aid package. The White House said in a statement on December 30 that the pledge includes an additional $1.25 billion drawdown package for the Ukrainian military and a $1.22 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative package. Hours later, the Treasury Department announced a separate $3.4 billion disbursement to Ukraine in direct budget support. The announcements came as the White House ramps up support to the war-torn country before President Joe Biden's term ends next month. "I've directed my Administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible -- including drawing down older U.S. equipment for Ukraine, rapidly delivering it to the battlefield, and then revitalizing the U.S. defense industrial base to modernize and replenish our stockpiles with new weapons," Biden said in the White House statement. "At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine's position in this war over the remainder of my time in office," Biden added. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen added in a separate statement: "Our direct budget support to Ukraine arrives at a critical time as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure." "Economic assistance from the United States and our allies is crucial for Ukraine's ability to defend its sovereignty and achieve a just peace by maintaining the critical government services that underpin its brave fight," she said in the statement. Despite Biden's pledge to continue ratcheting up support, the package is likely to be the last brought forth during his administration amid concerns that President-elect Donald Trump will significantly reduce or halt arms supplies to Ukraine in order to push Kyiv to negotiate a peace settlement with Russia. Trump is scheduled to be inaugurated on January 20. Russia has been pushing back Ukrainian troops on the front lines for weeks and claimed on December 29 to have seized another town in Ukraine's Donetsk region as it continues its long, bloody drive against the strategic -- but nearly destroyed -- southern logistics hub of Pokrovsk. Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces captured Novotroyitske, a settlement with a prewar population 6,300 about 16 kilometers south of Pokrovsk. The Ukrainian military did not comment specifically about Novotroyitske, but it said Russian troops had carried out 133 attacks on its positions, most of which were in the Pokrovsk area. Analysts have speculated on what the Kremlin forces' next steps will be for the city, a strategic logistics hub for Kyiv. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said geolocation data suggested the Russian military was about 10 kilometers from the border of the Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions. "[Russian President Vladimir] Putin may be putting pressure on the Russian military command to advance to the border, and not to cover Pokrovsk at this time," it wrote. In an interview with RFE/RL, Viktor Muzhenko, the former Ukrainian military commander, said any truce between Kyiv and Moscow that leaves swaths of Ukrainian territory under Russian control would represent a victory for the Kremlin and "fully compensate [it] for its costs of the war." Muzhenko, who led the military from 2014-19, said the situation with the occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and parts of Zaporizhzhya and Kherson regions is "critical" -- "not only for the loss of territories, but also [the loss of] half of the resource base of Ukraine." The announcement of the new support from Washington comes on the heels of an announcement by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov on December 29 that Kyiv had received an additional 150 million euros ($156 million) in aid from Denmark, France, and Lithuania to help finance the country's defense industry. "These funds, in particular, will be used for the production of missiles, deep-strike drones and artillery installations," he said in a Facebook post. Meanwhile, outgoing German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said she does not expect the next government in Berlin to "abandon" Ukraine in its fight against Russia. "No German government devoted to the security of Germany and Europe will abandon the people of Ukraine," she said in an interview published by Bild newspaper on December 29. Germany will vote on February 23, a day after the anniversary of Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion. after a coalition government led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz collapsed last month. Berlin trails only Washington in the amount of support provided to Ukraine, although Scholz has been reluctant to send heavy weaponry to Kyiv, often angering the Ukrainian leadership. Addressing worries that Trump may push a peace deal detrimental to Kyiv following his inauguration, Baerbock underlined the importance of providing for Ukraine's security needs in any such agreements. "Only reliable, long-term and, above all, truly sustainable security guarantees will prevent Putin from resorting to further campaigns of conquest. Only then will there be lasting peace and stability in Ukraine," she told Bild, without being specific. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/zelenskiy-says-us-set-to- announce-significant-aid-package-to-ukraine/33257634.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hundreds Of POWs Freed In Latest Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Swap By RFE/RL's Russian Service and RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service December 30, 2024 Russia and Ukraine have conducted another prisoner swap brokered by the United Arab Emirates, freeing hundreds of prisoners of war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the exchange in a post on Telegram announcing that 189 Ukrainians returned home as a result of the action. "These are the...defenders of Azovstal and Mariupol, the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, Zmiiniy Island, from different directions of the front," Zelenskiy said. "Among them are soldiers, sergeants, officers." Two civilians who were captured in Mariupol also were among those released, Zelenskiy said. In the post, which included photos of smiling soldiers seated on a bus, he added that Ukraine continues working to free all those held in Russian captivity. The Russian Defense Ministry also announced the prisoner exchange, saying the number released was 150 on each side. There was no explanation for the discrepancy. "On 30 December, as a result of the negotiation process, 150 Russian servicemen were returned from territory controlled by the Kyiv regime. In return, 150 Ukrainian army prisoners of war were handed over," a ministry statement said. The statement said the 150 Russian soldiers had been evacuated to Belarus, where they were receiving medical and psychological assistance and were given the opportunity to contact their relatives. "All released servicemen will be delivered to the Russian Federation for treatment and rehabilitation in medical institutions of the Russian Ministry of Defense," the statement added, noting the U.A.E. assistance in providing humanitarian efforts during the return of the POWs. Russia and Ukraine have conducted 59 POW exchanges since the beginning of the full-scale war. Fighting on December 30 included 104 combat clashes at the front on December 30 through 4:00 p.m. local time, according to the General Staff of the Ukrainian military. More than half of the battles took place in the areas around Pokrovsk, Kurakhiv, and Vremovskiy. In the Russian-occupied Kherson region of Ukraine, the Kremlin-installed governor said a Ukrainian strike hit a hospital, killing a doctor and wounding another. Russian-installed Governor Vladimir Saldo accused Ukraine's Western military backers of participating in the attack, which occurred in the Russian-held town of Oleshkiy. Deputy chief physician Vasily Borisov was killed in the attack, while chief physician Vladimir Kharlan was injured by shrapnel, Saldo said on Telegram. Images published by Saldo showed the facade of a building with its windows blown out, while another showed a room cluttered with damaged furniture. Kyiv did not immediately comment but denies targeting civilians in Russian-held areas. With reporting by AFP and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-prisoners-of-war- swap/33258288.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Comment by Foreign Ministry Official Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova following the Kiev regime's terrorist attacks on Russia's Kherson Region 30 December 2024 19:40 2532-30-12-2024 On December 30, the criminal Kiev regime, aided and abetted by its NATO handlers, perpetrated an atrocious attack on the Central District Hospital in Alyoshki, Kherson Region, Russian Federation, using an unmanned aerial vehicle to penetrate the Chief Physician's office. As a result of this tragedy, Deputy Chief Physician for Medical Affairs Vasily Borisov was killed, and the hospital's Chief Physician Vladimir Kharlan sustained severe shrapnel wounds. We strongly condemn this new cynical and brutal crime committed by the Kiev regime, once again exposing its inhumane Nazi nature. The shelling of communities in the Russian regions, the ruthless and indiscriminate murders of civilians - journalists, doctors, and representatives of other civilian professions - are clearly the last struggles of Zelensky's neo-Nazi regime, mired in terrorism, lawlessness, corruption and cynicism, which is striving, in its impotent anger, to please its Western puppeteers by killing as many Russian people as possible. The masterminds and perpetrators of this and other crimes of the Kiev regime will be inevitably punished to the full extent of the law. We call on all responsible foreign governments and relevant international organisations to strongly condemn this brutal terrorist attack and publicly distance themselves from the Kiev regime and its Western curators complicit in such crimes. Keeping silent in response to the unbridled barbarism of the Ukrainian Nazis and their puppet masters and accomplices from the "civilised democracies" will amount to admitting to complicity in their evil deeds. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Defence Ministry reports on repelling AFU attempt to invade Russian territory in Kursk region (30 December 2024) 30.12.2024 The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the operation to neutralise an enemy group, which broke into the territory of Kursk region. In the course of offensive operations, units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on formations of one heavy mechanised brigade, five mechanised brigades, three air assault brigades, one marine brigade, two territorial defence brigades, and one assault battalion of the AFU near Daryino, Kurilovka, Leonidovo, Loknya, Maryevka, Makhnovka, Nizhny Klin, Nikolayevo-Daryino, Novaya Sorochina, Cherkasskaya Konopelka, and Cherkasskoye Porechnoye. Five counter-attacks launched by AFU assault detachments were repelled. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation and artillery inflicted losses on AFU manpower and hardware near Aleksandriya, Viktorovka, Guyevo, Kazachaya Loknya, Kruglenkoye, Lebedevka, Nikolsky, Rubanshchina, Russkoye Porechnoye, Sverdlikovo as well as Basovka, Belovody, and Zhuravka in Sumy region. Over the past 24 hours, the AFU losses amounted to more than 310 troops, one infantry fighting vehicle, ten armoured fighting vehicles, six motor vehicles, and one artillery gun. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk region, the AFU losses amounted to more than 45,530 troops, 262 tanks, 204 infantry fighting vehicles, 142 armoured personnel carriers, 1,359 armoured fighting vehicles, 1,237 motor vehicles, 337 artillery guns, 42 MLRS launchers, including 11 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 13 anti-aircraft missile launchers, seven transport-loading vehicles, 83 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 28 units of engineering and other materiel, including 13 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, seven armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Brings Back 150 Soldiers From Ukrainian Captivity Sputnik News 20241230 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia has returned 150 soldiers from Ukrainian captivity in exchange for 150 Ukrainian prisoners of war, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday. "On December 30 of this year, as a result of the negotiation process, 150 Russian servicepeople were returned from the territory controlled by the Kiev regime," the ministry said in a statement, adding that 150 Ukrainian POWs were transferred in exchange. All Russian military personnel are currently on the territory of Belarus, where they are receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, as well as the opportunity to contact their relatives, the statement read, adding that they will be transferred to Russia for treatment and rehabilitation in medical institutions of the Ministry of Defense. The United Arab Emirates provided humanitarian mediation efforts during the return of Russian soldiers from captivity, the ministry added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Forces Liberate Novoolenovka in Donetsk Region Sputnik News 20241230 Russian forces from the Tsentr Battlegroup have liberated the settlement of Novoolenovka in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), according to a statement by the Russian Ministry of Defense. "The determined actions of units from the Tsentr Battlegroup have resulted in the liberation of the settlement of Novoolenovka in the Donetsk People's Republic," the ministry announced. Additionally, over the past 24 hours, units from the Tsentr Battlegroup reportedly repelled 11 counterattacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, inflicting significant losses. According to the statement, the Ukrainian side suffered up to 420 casualties, lost two tanks, including a German-made Leopard, as well as other equipment. The Ministry of Defense noted that Russian forces targeted personnel and equipment belonging to three mechanized brigades, a motorized infantry brigade, a mountain assault brigade, two assault battalions, a marine brigade, and a National Police assault brigade. The engagements occurred near the settlements of Dzerzhinsk, Vozdvizhenka, Dachenskoye, and Peschanoye in the DPR. In addition to personnel losses, Ukrainian forces reportedly lost two infantry fighting vehicles, one armored personnel carrier, a British-made Snatch armored vehicle, five pickup trucks, a 155mm Bogdana self-propelled artillery unit, two 152mm D-20 guns, a 122mm Gvozdika self-propelled howitzer, three 122mm D-30 howitzers, and an electronic warfare station, as outlined in the ministry's statement. Other Developments Forces of Russia's Sever Battlegroup targeted two Ukrainian brigades near Kazachya Lopan, Velikiye Prokhody, and Liptsy in the Kharkov region, resulting in up to 65 Ukrainian casualties, along with the destruction of one armored vehicle, one truck, a 152mm D-20 gun, two 122mm D-30 howitzers, and an electronic warfare station. The Yug Battlegroup advanced to more favorable positions, inflicting over 295 casualties on Ukrainian forces, destroying one tank, two infantry fighting vehicles, an M113 APC, a Kozak armored vehicle, two pickups, two electronic warfare stations, and two field ammunition depots. The Vostok Battlegroup pushed deeper into Ukrainian defenses, targeting three mechanized brigades and one territorial defense brigade, inflicting over 175 casualties. Ukrainian losses included a Paladin self-propelled artillery unit, an M119 howitzer, a 152mm D-20 gun, three vehicles, an electronic warfare station, and a field ammunition depot. The Zapad Battlegroup improved its frontline positions and targeted six Ukrainian brigades, including mechanized, assault, territorial defense, and national guard units, inflicting over 530 casualties. Ukrainian losses included one tank, an infantry fighting vehicle, four APCs (three of which were M113s), eight vehicles, a Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled gun, a Hyacinth-B 152mm gun, a 122mm Gvozdika howitzer, three 122mm D-30 howitzers, and an M119 howitzer. The Dnepr Battlegroup struck Ukrainian forces from three territorial defense brigades near Antonovka, Mikhailovka, and Yantarnoye in Kherson region, resulting in up to 75 casualties. Ukrainian losses included one armored vehicle, four cars, and two field ammunition depots. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address No Preconditions for Resolving the Ukrainian Conflict at Present - Kremlin Sputnik News 20241230 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - There are currently no preconditions for ending the Ukrainian conflict or any of its phases, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Sputnik on Monday. "No," Peskov said. Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told Sputnik that Russia is open to negotiations on resolving the situation surrounding Ukraine. However, he emphasized that these talks must focus on addressing the root causes of the crisis and take into account the actual situation "on the ground." Lavrov also reminded that Russia's approach to resolving the conflict had been outlined by President Vladimir Putin. In June, Putin proposed initiatives for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. According to his plan, Moscow would immediately cease hostilities and express readiness for negotiations once Ukrainian forces withdraw from the territories of Russia's newly integrated regions. Additionally, Kiev would need to declare its refusal to join NATO, undertake demilitarization and denazification efforts, and adopt a neutral, non-aligned, and non-nuclear status. Putin also stressed the necessity of lifting sanctions against Russia as part of the resolution process. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen on the Disbursement of U.S. Direct Budget Support for Ukraine U.S. Department of the Treasury December 30, 2024 WASHINGTON -- Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen issued the following statement on the disbursement of $3.4 billion in direct budget support for Ukraine: Our direct budget support to Ukraine arrives at a critical time as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure. Economic assistance from the United States and our allies is crucial for Ukraine's ability to defend its sovereignty and achieve a just peace by maintaining the critical government services that underpin its brave fight. In coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Department of State, this $3.4 billion in assistance marks the final disbursement of funds appropriated under the bipartisan Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024. Our direct budget support continues to be conditioned on reforms related to strengthening law enforcement, improving transparency and efficiency of government institutions, and bolstering anti-corruption rules and procedures. This disbursal follows the United States' execution of our portion of the $50 billion G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loan initiative for Ukraine, paid for by the windfall proceeds earned from Russia's own immobilized assets. Taken together, we are sending a clear message to Russia that it will increasingly bear the costs of its illegal war - not American and coalition taxpayers. Ukraine's success is in America's core national interest. Stopping Russia's illegal invasion will help uphold a global democratic, rules-based, order that advances American security and economic interests, and it will send an unmistakable message to autocrats and would-be aggressors around the world that they will face unshakeable resolve. We must not retreat in this effort. Together with the security assistance America is providing Ukraine and Treasury's actions to further tighten sanctions on Russia's war machine, we will continue to do everything in our power to position Ukraine to achieve a just peace. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We Simplified the Process of Receiving Officer Ranks for Soldiers and Sergeants with Combat Experience; This Is a Proper Social Advancement within the Army - Address by the President President of Ukraine 30 December 2024 - 21:55 I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians! Today is a good day. We have brought 189 more of our men home from Russian captivity. These include warriors of the Armed Forces, the National Guard - defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal, our border guards. Two civilians. I thank the entire team involved in the prisoner exchanges. I am also grateful to the United Arab Emirates for their mediation. And, of course, I want to express my gratitude to all our warriors who continue to replenish the "exchange fund" for Ukraine. This is the most important task - to bring all our people home from captivity - all warriors and civilians, every single person waiting to return. We will keep working on it. I have signed a decree appointing a Commissioner for the protection of the rights of our warriors and their families. Olha Reshetylova, a well-known Ukrainian human rights advocate, will now focus on drafting a bill on the Military Ombudsman. This is the institution we need to create, and it's not just one person. A systemic work is needed, so that the Ombudsman has an apparatus and all the real possibilities to influence the situation and help. And it is very important that each of our military feel that it is really possible to ask for support and receive it. The role and responsibilities of the Military Ombudsman must be developed with input from our warriors - and we must ask them directly. We are doing this through the Army Plus platform. We are launching a survey about the Military Ombudsman, and I urge every soldier and every officer to share their views on what the priorities should be. Today, an important decision was made to help our army become more modern and to apply the experience gained in defense operations during this war. We have simplified the process for soldiers and sergeants with combat experience to receive officer ranks. This is a proper mechanism for social advancement within the army. Today, I would also like to thank the team from Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food for organizing our delegation's visit to Damascus - to the new Syria. I look forward to receiving reports from the ministers on the negotiations and the initial results. This demonstrates Ukraine's leadership and agility in foreign policy - qualities that can deliver the positive outcomes we need. We have the opportunity to help restore stability in Syria after years of Russian interference, and this will undoubtedly support our own efforts to restore peace for us. It would be the right step to restore our diplomatic relations and economic cooperation with Syria. And I really hope that post-Assad Syria will respect international law - something Assad couldn't and didn't want to do. He was dependent and simply didn't understand what it means to respect his own people and the international community. And one more thing. Today, Ukraine has received significant support packages from the United States - packages worth several billion dollars. This assistance will strengthen the frontlines in the near future, help us repel Russian assaults, and support Ukraine in saving lives. I am grateful to the President of the United States, to Congress - both parties and both chambers - and to every American heart that desires more space for freedom in the world. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US announces $2.5 billion in new Ukraine aid By VOA News December 30, 2024 The United States Monday announced nearly $2.5 billion in new aid for Ukraine as part of a surge of assistance in the waning days of the Biden administration. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement the aid includes air defense munitions, counter-drone munitions, ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, anti-tank weapons and artillery munitions. U.S. President Joe Biden said the aid "will provide Ukraine with both an immediate influx of capabilities that it continues to use to great effect on the battlefield and longer-term supplies of air defense, artillery, and other critical weapons systems." The package comes three weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump has questioned the level of U.S. aid for Ukraine, raising concerns among Ukrainian leaders that future U.S. support could be in jeopardy. Ukraine's military said Monday it shot down 21 drones that Russian forces used in attacks overnight targeting multiple areas across northern and eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian air force said Russia launched a total of 43 drones, and that its air defenses shot down drones over the Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Kharkiv, Odesa and Poltava regions. Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram that falling drone debris damaged five residential buildings but did not hurt anyone. Kharkiv Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported a building fire caused by a drone attack, as well as a drone hit near a highway. He added there were no casualties in his region. Russia's defense ministry said Monday it intercepted a drone over the Belgorod region located along the Russia-Ukraine border. Regional officials in Kursk also said Russian air defenses shot down a Ukrainian missile early Monday. Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dubai, UAE, Dec. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- We are advised by CoinW that journalists and other readers should disregard the news release, "LCT Secures VARA In-Principle Approval, Defining Its Role in Dubais Crypto Landscape" issued December 20, 2024, over GlobeNewswire. SHENZHEN, China, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- From December 27th to 29th, the Shenzhen International Eye Industry Expo was held at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center (Futian), with a total area of 15,000 square meters. It attracted over 150 well-known brands and more than 20,000 professional visitors from around the world. The theme of this expo is "Light Vision", which builds a professional, branded and international platform for business contacts and industry information exchange. The exhibition has eight major exhibition areas, including the eyewear brand exhibition area, the industry chain supporting exhibition area, intelligence (glasses) exhibition area, the innovative technology exhibition area, and the designer exhibition area. These exhibition areas comprehensively display new products, new technologies and new trends in the global eyewear industry. At the same time, Shenzhen, as one of the global eyewear industry centers, has the advantages of a full industry chain integrating manufacturing, branding, design, sales, intelligence, etc., which were also presented in various aspects at this expo. This expo also invited CHAMELO, FLIPO, Xiaomi, ARTS and other well-known companies from the global eyewear industry and smart manufacturers, as well as design masters and internationally renowned scholars to discuss the opportunities in globalization, brand building and ecological creation and other aspects of the experiences and insights of the eyewear industry, to share the latest technology and discuss future trends in eyewear design to inspire innovation in the industry. The smart (glasses) exhibition area is one of the highlights of this expo. This exhibition area highlights the product R&D and design capabilities in the global smart glasses field and provides buyers with smart glasses trial experience services. Visitors can get close to smart glasses solutions and technologies such as AI/AR/VR, as well as related "black technologies" here. During the expo, the organizers also held a variety of activities such as new product launches, supply and demand matchmaking meetings, and eye consumption weeks. Among them, the Shenzhen International Eyewear (Wearable Design Contest 2024 held at the same time collected more than 2,400 works from top designers from China, France, Britain, Italy, Spain and other countries around the world. This is a forward-looking exploration of the future development trend of smart wearable devices. The Light Vision 2024 Shenzhen International Optics Fair has brought new vitality to the global eyewear industry and also demonstrated the future development direction and technological frontiers for the industry. For more information, please visit: https://global.sziof.com/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570151844876 YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@LightVisionExpo Xhttps://x.com/LightVisionexpo Company: Shenzhen International Eye Industry Expo Contact Person: dong zhiwei Email: lizhengui@szqfjt.com Website: https://sziof.com/ Telephone: 18576434560 City: Shenzhen A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/20893381-ae55-4e6d-97ba-4c1f445670ff Dublin, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Agrivoltaics Market: Focus on Product and Country - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe agrivoltaics market is projected to reach $3.54 billion by 2033 from $534.8 million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 20.81% during the forecast period 2023-2033 Companies in the European agrivoltaics sector can capitalize on opportunities by implementing innovative technologies, forming strategic partnerships with farmers and solar energy providers, and leveraging favorable government policies and incentives for renewable energy. To take advantage of this growing market, it is essential to make investments in R&D and build a strong production infrastructure. Businesses can establish themselves as leaders in agriculturally specific sustainable energy solutions by putting these tactics into practice. In addition to advancing Europe's renewable energy objectives, this strategy takes into account the changing demands of the region's farmers and energy users. Companies can lead the way in agrivoltaics by working together and innovating, bringing about both environmental and economic benefits while forming a resilient and sustainable agricultural and energy landscape throughout Europe. Market Introduction The European market for agrivoltaics is expanding significantly as the continent looks to improve its capacity for renewable energy while tackling the issues of sustainable agriculture. Agrivoltaics presents a special chance to optimize land use by combining solar energy production with agricultural practices. Concerns about energy and food security are addressed by enabling farmers to continue agricultural production while producing clean energy by erecting solar panels above crops. The EU's commitment to carbon reduction and the shift to a low-carbon economy, along with the growing demand for renewable energy, have all contributed to the expansion of agrivoltaics in Europe. Through incentives and subsidies, the EU's Green Deal, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, further encourages the development of such projects. Additionally, technological advancements in solar panel efficiency and system design are enabling better integration with farming practices, further driving adoption. Rising environmental consciousness has also benefited Europe's agrivoltaics market, with farmers and landowners recognizing the dual benefits of increased crop yields and energy generation. Agrivoltaics is viewed as a feasible solution that fits with sustainability and the demand for creative farming methods as European nations work to meet renewable energy targets. As the area adopts sustainable farming methods and renewable energy, this market is expected to grow further. How can this report add value to an organization? Product/Innovation Strategy: The product segment helps the reader understand the different applications of agrivoltaics products in the market. The market is poised for significant expansion with ongoing technological advancements, increased investments, and growing awareness of the use of agrivoltaics. Therefore, agrivoltaics are a high-investment and high-revenue generating model. Growth/Marketing Strategy: The Europe agrivoltaics market is growing at a rapid pace. The market offers enormous opportunities for existing and emerging market players. Some of the strategies covered in this segment are mergers and acquisitions, product launches, partnerships and collaborations, business expansions, and investments. The strategies preferred by companies to maintain and strengthen their market position primarily include partnerships and collaborations. Competitive Strategy: The key players in the Europe agrivoltaics market analyzed and profiled in the study include agrivoltaics projects. Additionally, a comprehensive competitive landscape such as partnerships, agreements, and collaborations are expected to aid the reader in understanding the untapped revenue pockets in the market. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 72 Forecast Period 2023 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $534.8 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $3540 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 20.8% Regions Covered Europe Key Topics Covered: Executive Summary Scope and Definition 1 Markets 1.1 Trends: Current and Future Impact Assessment 1.1.1 Potential for Rural Electric Vehicle Charging 1.1.2 Increasing Demand for Renewable Energy 1.2 Supply Chain Overview 1.2.1 Value Chain Analysis 1.3 Research and Development Review 1.3.1 Patent Filing Trend (by Company) 1.3.2 Patent Filing Trend (by Country) 1.4 Regulatory Landscape 1.5 Market Dynamics Overview 1.5.1 Market Drivers 1.5.1.1 Dual-Revenue Streams for Farmers 1.5.1.2 Agrivoltaics as a Sustainable Solution for Agriculture 1.5.2 Market Restraints 1.5.2.1 High Installation Costs 1.5.2.2 Limited Compatibility to Certain Crops 1.5.3 Market Opportunities 1.5.3.1 Reduced Emissions through Improved Farm Electrification 1.5.3.2 Increased Government Initiatives to Boost R&D in Agrivoltaics 2 Regions 2.1 Regional Summary 2.2 Europe 2.2.1 Regional Overview 2.2.2 Driving Factors for Market Growth 2.2.3 Factors Challenging the Market 2.2.4 Product 2.2.5 France 2.2.6 Germany 2.2.7 Spain 2.2.8 U.K. 2.2.9 Italy 2.2.10 Rest-of-Europe 3 Markets - Competitive Benchmarking & Company Profiles 3.1 Next Frontiers 3.2 Geographic Assessment 3.2.1 Iqony Solar Energy Solutions 3.2.1.1 Overview 3.2.1.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.1.3 Top Competitors 3.2.1.4 Target Customers 3.2.1.5 Key Personnel 3.2.1.6 Analyst View 3.2.1.7 Market Share, 2023 3.2.2 BayWa AG 3.2.2.1 Overview 3.2.2.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.2.3 Top Competitors 3.2.2.4 Target Customers 3.2.2.5 Key Personnel 3.2.2.6 Analyst View 3.2.2.7 Market Share, 2023 3.2.3 Lightsource 3.2.3.1 Overview 3.2.3.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.3.3 Top Competitors 3.2.3.4 Target Customers 3.2.3.5 Key Personnel 3.2.3.6 Analyst View 3.2.3.7 Market Share, 2023 3.2.4 Enel Green Power S.p.A. 3.2.4.1 Overview 3.2.4.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.4.3 Top Competitors 3.2.4.4 Target Customers 3.2.4.5 Key Personnel 3.2.4.6 Analyst View 3.2.4.7 Market Share, 2023 3.2.5 Sun'Agri 3.2.5.1 Overview 3.2.5.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.5.3 Top Competitors 3.2.5.4 Target Customers 3.2.5.5 Key Personnel 3.2.5.6 Analyst View 3.2.5.7 Market Share, 2023 3.2.6 Next2Sun AG 3.2.6.1 Overview 3.2.6.2 Top Project Portfolio 3.2.6.3 Top Competitors 3.2.6.4 Target Customers 3.2.6.5 Key Personnel 3.2.6.6 Analyst View 3.2.6.7 Market Share, 2023 4 Research Methodology For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wjgb6r About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Dublin, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Power System Simulation Software Market: Focus on Application, Product, and Country - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe power system simulation software market is projected to reach $900.6 million by 2033 from $417.5 million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.05% during the forecast period 2023-2033 The growing demand for dependable and effective energy management across sectors like manufacturing, power, and renewable energy is driving the market for power system simulation software in Europe. Advanced simulation tools are crucial for improving grid reliability, optimizing power distribution, and increasing operational efficiency as smart grid technologies and renewable energy integration gain traction. As businesses work to lower their carbon footprints and adhere to strict regulations, growing environmental consciousness and the drive for sustainable energy practices are further fueling demand. Growth is being accelerated by government policies and R&D expenditures, guaranteeing that the market stays at the forefront of sustainability objectives and technological advancements. Market Overview The market for power system simulation software in Europe is expanding rapidly due to the growing need for dependable and effective energy management solutions in a number of sectors, such as power generation, distribution, renewable energy, and industrial applications. The adoption of smart grid technologies and the incorporation of renewable energy into current grids have become essential due to the continuous shift towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. The need for sophisticated simulation tools that can optimize power distribution, enhance grid stability, and guarantee operational efficiency is being driven by this change. Energy operators can model and analyze power networks, anticipate possible faults, and improve grid performance with the help of power system simulation software. This is crucial as the energy landscape grows more complex due to the presence of intermittent and decentralized power sources. Additionally, growing environmental awareness and stringent regulatory frameworks across Europe are pushing organizations to adopt sustainable energy practices and reduce their carbon footprints, further fueling the demand for these solutions. It is anticipated that the market will advance due to government initiatives, investments in smart grid infrastructure, and a rise in research and development activities. Through these initiatives, power system simulation software will continue to advance, assisting industries in achieving sustainability targets and adjusting to Europe's rapidly shifting energy landscape. How can this report add value to an organization? Product/Innovation Strategy: This report provides a comprehensive product/innovation strategy for the power system simulation software market, identifying opportunities for market entry, technology adoption, and sustainable growth. It offers actionable insights, helping organizations leverage power system simulation software to meet environmental standards, gain a competitive edge, and capitalize on the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions in various industries. Growth/Marketing Strategy: This report offers a comprehensive growth and marketing strategy designed specifically for the Europe power system simulation software market. It presents a targeted approach to identifying specialized market segments, establishing a competitive advantage, and implementing creative marketing initiatives aimed at optimizing market share and financial performance. By harnessing these strategic recommendations, organizations can elevate their market presence, seize emerging prospects, and efficiently propel revenue expansion. Competitive Strategy: This report crafts a strong competitive strategy tailored to the Europe power system simulation software market. It evaluates market rivals, suggests methods to stand out, and offers guidance for maintaining a competitive edge. By adhering to these strategic directives, companies can position themselves effectively in the face of market competition, ensuring sustained prosperity and profitability. Companies Featured Siemens DIgSILENT ABB Schneider Electric Plexim GmbH DNV GL Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 72 Forecast Period 2023 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $417.5 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $900.6 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.0% Regions Covered Europe Key Topics Covered: Executive Summary Scope and Definition 1 Markets 1.1 Trends: Current and Future Impact Assessment 1.1.1 Trends: Current and Future Impact Assessment 1.1.1.1 Increasing Need for Grid Modernization 1.1.1.2 Accelerating Shift toward Renewable Energy Adoption 1.2 Supply Chain Overview 1.2.1 Value Chain Analysis 1.2.2 End-User Value Chain 1.2.3 Pricing Forecast 1.3 Research and Development Review 1.3.1 Patent Filing Trend (by Country and Company) 1.3.2 Research Initiatives and Product Development Announcements (by Company) 1.3.2.1 Research Initiatives 1.3.2.2 Product Development Announcements 1.4 Regulatory Landscape 1.5 Stakeholder Analysis 1.5.1 Use Case 1.5.1.1.1 Amprion GmbH 1.5.1.1.2 National HVDC Centre (U.K.) 1.5.1.1.3 Implementing Operational Standards for Battery Energy Storage Systems 1.5.1.1.4 Hardware-in-the-loop Testing of Generator and Transformer Protection 1.5.1.1.5 Johan Sverdrup Project - Equinor 1.5.2 End User and Buying Criteria 1.6 Impact Analysis for Key Global Events-COVID-19, Russia/Ukraine Conflict, or Middle East Crisis 1.7 Market Dynamics: Overview 1.7.1 Market Drivers 1.7.1.1 Rising Demand for Electricity to Propel the Expansion of the Power system simulation software market 1.7.1.2 Favorable Policies and Regulatory Frameworks to Drive Growth in the Market 1.7.1.3 Enhanced Capabilities of Simulation Software to Reduce Project Time and Cost 1.7.2 Market Restraints 1.7.2.1 High Investment and Deployment Costs 1.7.2.2 Concerns Surrounding Data Security 1.7.3 Market Opportunities 1.7.3.1 Rise of Smart Energy Infrastructure Worldwide 1.7.3.2 Renewable Energy Integration Using Simulation Software 2 Regions 2.1 Regional Summary 2.2 Drivers and Restraints 2.3 Europe 2.3.1 Regional Overview 2.3.2 Driving Factors for Market Growth 2.3.3 Factors Challenging the Market 2.3.3.1 Application 2.3.3.2 Product 2.3.4 Germany 2.3.4.1 Application 2.3.4.2 Product 2.3.5 U.K. 2.3.5.1 Application 2.3.5.2 Product 2.3.6 Southern and Mediterranean Europe 2.3.6.1 Application 2.3.6.2 Product 2.3.7 Eastern Europe 2.3.7.1 Application 2.3.7.2 Product 2.3.8 Nordic Region 2.3.8.1 Application 2.3.8.2 Product 3 Markets - Competitive Benchmarking & Company Profiles 3.1 Next Frontiers 3.2 Geographic Assessment 3.2.1 Overview 3.2.2 Top Products/Product Portfolio 3.2.3 Top Competitors 3.2.4 Target Customers 3.2.5 Key Personnel 3.2.6 Analyst View 3.2.7 Market Share, 2022 4 Research Methodology 4.1 Data Sources 4.1.1 Primary Data Sources 4.1.2 Secondary Data Sources 4.1.3 Data Triangulation 4.2 Market Estimation and Forecast For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4zm7o7 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Key takeaways from Xi's 2024 domestic trips as China looks ahead to 2025 Xinhua) 08:07, December 31, 2024 BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Undaunted by skepticism, China has skillfully maneuvered through a turbulent landscape of challenges and opportunities in 2024, stabilizing its economic growth and showcasing extraordinary resilience. As 2025 draws near, all eyes turn to the world's second-largest economy, watching closely to see how it will navigate the path of modernization and national rejuvenation in the face of sluggish global growth, mounting external pressures, and the internal challenges of weak demand and uneven development. Clues to this trajectory have already emerged through Chinese President Xi Jinping's 2024 domestic inspection tours, where each stop -- whether in bustling cities or vibrant rural areas -- has revealed his vision for China's future and outlined a roadmap for the country's path forward. REFORM Reform is the defining theme of 2024, resonating throughout Xi's inspection tours across the country this year. In July, China unveiled a landmark resolution to set the stage for a new phase of reform aimed at advancing Chinese modernization. With a focus on the next five years, the blueprint outlines over 300 transformative initiatives, spanning the economy, politics, culture, society and more. Building on this momentum, Xi inspected Xiamen in October, a city at the forefront of China's reform efforts. It was here, in 1985, that he began his work in Fujian Province as vice mayor of Xiamen. At that time, the Xiamen Special Economic Zone was still in its infancy, and Xi played a pivotal role in driving bold reforms. During his visit, Xi viewed a screen display in an exhibition hall showcasing Xiamen's remarkable transformation, reflecting on the city's early pioneering efforts. He flipped through a blue-bound book titled "1985-2000 Xiamen Economic and Social Development Strategy," a plan he had personally led. Recalling the plan, he said, "When we created this plan, we didn't have all the answers -- how to establish a free port, manage the free movement of people, or set financial policies. We simply experimented, piloting initiatives and crossing the river by feeling for stones." Xi highlighted the need to harness the spearheading role of economic structural reform, urging continued bold experimentation and the pursuit of self-driven reform. He called for efforts to fully unleash the vitality of investment and entrepreneurship across society while prioritizing reforms in public welfare. After concluding his Fujian visit, Xi traveled to Anhui, the cradle of China's rural reform. In 1978, 18 farmers in Xiaogang Village took a daring step by secretly signing an agreement to contract collective land to individual households, sparking a wave of agricultural production enthusiasm and laying the foundation for the country's broader rural reform. Anhui's tradition of reform and innovation now serves as a catalyst for its emergence as a key hub for tech innovation. Its capital, Hefei, is home to a diverse array of high-tech industries, including integrated circuits, new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence and quantum information. During his inspection of Anhui, Xi called for pioneering and differentiated reforms, urging the establishment of a system that fosters comprehensive innovation by integrating reforms in education, science and technology, and talent development. SCI-TECH INNOVATION Sci-tech innovation, as underscored by Xi during his Anhui inspection, has taken center stage in China's transition from rapid GDP growth to high-quality development over the past few years. In the 2024 Global Innovation Index, China climbed to 11th place, up 18 spots over the past decade, solidifying its status as one of the fastest-rising innovation-driven economies. It also leads globally with 26 of the top 100 science and technology clusters, underscoring its rapid innovation output growth. Earlier this month, the annual Central Economic Work Conference, at which Xi made a key policy speech, highlighted sci-tech innovation among the nine key priorities for China's economy in 2025. A week after the meeting, Xi visited the Macau University of Science and Technology. There, he was briefed on the development and latest achievements of key state-level laboratories at the university, including one dedicated to lunar and planetary science. Xi also observed the real-time operations of the "Macao Science 1" satellites jointly developed by the mainland and Macao on monitor screens. He noted that China's achievements in lunar exploration -- driven by the wisdom and dedication of generations of Chinese scientists -- are a powerful testament to the country's remarkable progress in achieving technological self-reliance and innovation. He also urged the researchers and faculty at the university to continue working toward new breakthroughs that will serve both the nation and humanity. The integrated development of scientific and technological innovation with industrial innovation, emphasized during the recent Central Economic Work Conference, has also been a central focus of Xi's extensive inspection tours due to its crucial role in driving productivity breakthroughs in China. While visiting the central city of Wuhan, Xi was briefed on wide-ranging achievements, such as a cutting-edge computer system for minimally invasive cardiac surgery, facilitated by a platform that seamlessly integrates the strengths of research institutes, universities, businesses and funding sources. With keen interest, Xi asked detailed questions about critical issues related to China's reform of the industrial application of sci-tech advancements, including the development timeline, cost reductions, international competitiveness, and the progress of enterprise cooperation. "Achieving high-level self-reliance in science and technology urgently requires the integration of technological and industrial innovation, as does developing new quality productive forces," Xi said. RURAL REVITALIZATION In the milestone resolution adopted in July, China proposed efforts to improve supporting systems to strengthen agriculture, benefit farmers, and enrich rural areas. Xi has stated, "The most challenging and arduous tasks we face in building a modern socialist China in all respects remain in our rural areas." During his visits to the vast rural expanses of the country in 2024, Xi has closely examined the development of local industries -- an essential pillar of China's rural revitalization strategy aimed at improving the lives of nearly 500 million people living in the countryside -- through firsthand observations and in-depth assessments. In the hinterland province of Gansu, Xi toured an orchard where rows of trees were ladened with ruby-red Huaniu apples, a specialty that has been cultivated for decades in the region. Beneath the canopy of trees, Xi spoke with apple growers and agricultural technicians, encouraging them to strive for even greater success in developing the local apple industry. "Rural revitalization must be driven by robust industries," he said. "Regions should build on their unique advantages and pursue development paths suited to their needs." Xi's next inspection trip took him to a fishing village in an island county of Fujian, where he had toured 23 years ago. There, fishing boats were returning to port packed with fresh catches. Delighted to see the tremendous changes taking place on the island, Xi urged locals to capitalize on its advantages and make good use of local marine resources. "The countryside presents immense opportunities, and agriculture possesses significant potential," the president has stressed. OPENING UP The concept of high-standard opening up has been highlighted throughout Xi's inspection visits, underscoring his commitment to global engagement as a driver of growth. Xi has closely followed the development of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a vital trade route with its operational center in Chongqing, China's major manufacturing hub. During his April visit to Chongqing, Xi was seen asking pointed questions at the corridor's operational control center, such as, "What are its cost advantages? What benefits does it bring? What obstacles still exist?" The corridor has significantly shortened logistics time. As a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, it connects 542 ports across 125 countries and regions through a network of railways, seas and highways. Thanks to the corridor, the western region's import and export value through the trade route reached 514 billion yuan (around 71.5 billion U.S. dollars) in the first three quarters of 2024, marking a 15-percent year-on-year growth. "Logistics are the lifeblood of the real economy," Xi said, stressing the importance of effectively managing the project to propel high-standard opening up in the country's western and inland regions. In line with his broader vision of openness, Xi has paid attention to foreign-invested and joint ventures. In May, during his visit to Shandong, he convened a meeting with business leaders, including those from foreign ventures, to seek their insights on reform. Earlier, during his March visit to Hunan, he toured a Chinese-German joint venture, reaffirming China's dedication to expanding international partnerships. "We welcome more foreign companies to invest and grow in China," Xi said at the BASF Shanshan Battery Materials in Hunan. "China's door will continue to open wider," he added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Dublin, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Top 200 Furniture Manufacturers Worldwide" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report is the result of extensive research work to identify, compare, and profile the leading furniture manufacturers in the world. According to the analyst, the top 200 furniture manufacturers in the world generate a combined furniture turnover of around USD 160 billion. The total turnover of the top 200 furniture producers experienced remarkable growth between 2019 and 2023, significantly outpacing the overall sector in terms of sales performance during the same period. This growth highlights the resilience and strategic agility of the industry's leading players in the face of unprecedented challenges. Their stronger financial resources and established market positions enabled them to respond swiftly, implementing a range of adaptive measures and ensuring greater flexibility. The output of the research is organized into two sections: OVERVIEW OF THE GLOBAL FURNITURE SECTOR: this part offers background information on the world furniture sector highlighting the evolution of global furniture production by geographical region for the time frame 2015-2024, and the international trade of furniture. The chapter Top 200 furniture manufacturers: a heterogeneous group of companies presents aggregated statistics and comparative analysis according to: Geographical coverage: Headquarters and manufacturing plants number and location Financial performance: turnover and number of employees Strategies: manufacturing footprint, mergers, and acquisitions Furniture segment specialization Sustainability overview THE TOP 200 FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS. DETAILED PROFILES. Each company profile provides comprehensive and detailed information for an in-depth overview of furniture manufacturers' key characteristics and activities. The segments identified are: Office furniture; Kitchen furniture, Upholstered furniture; Soft furniture, Outdoor furniture and Multiproduct furniture (including the mentioned segments plus other furniture, e.g., dining/living room furniture, bedrooms, bathroom, etc.). A group of companies is identified as Multiproduct when they are not specialized in furniture production. Countries and regions covered: The selected companies have headquarters in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, China, India, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam. Specifically, they include: Company name, year of establishment, headquarters, website, company e-mail address Business activity, product portfolio and product specialization, controlled companies and subsidiaries Financial indicators, trends in total revenue and number of employees, sales breakdown by geographical area Production facilities and sales breakdown by product Information on distribution, retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and brand details Sustainability strategies and initiatives Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction: Aim of the Report and Contents 2. Methodological Notes Section One: Analysis of the Top 200 Furniture Manufacturers on a Global Level 3. The Background: Overview of the world furniture industry and international trade World furniture production, 2015-2024 World furniture trade, 2015-2026 4. Top 200 Furniture Manufacturers: A Heterogeneous Group of Companies 4.1. Selection of the world leading furniture manufacturers 4.2. Top 200 furniture manufacturers' representativeness in the world furniture industry 4.3. Geographical coverage 4.4. Manufacturing plants of the Top 200 furniture manufacturers: number and location 4.5. Top 200 furniture manufacturers by product specialization 4.6. Financial performance: Turnover and employment. Breakdown by geographical location of headquarters and by company specialization in the furniture segment 4.7. Business performance of the Top 200 furniture manufacturers Top 200 furniture turnover and world furniture production Top 200 furniture turnover by geographical area of headquarters and by product specialization 4.8. Top 200 furniture manufacturers: Mergers & Acquisitions 4.9. Top 200 furniture manufacturers: Sustainability strategies and initiatives Section Two: Top 200 Furniture Manufacturers' Profiles 5. Top 200 Furniture Manufacturers Worldwide 5.1. Summary tables: Turnover order, Alphabetical order, Europe, Americas and Asia Pacific 5.2. Company profiles. For each considered furniture manufacturer Company name, year of establishment, headquarters, website, e-mail address Business activity, product portfolio and product specialization, controlled companies and subsidiaries Financial indicators, trends in total revenues and number of employees, sales breakdown by geographical area Production facilities and sales breakdown by product Information on distribution, retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and brand details Sustainability strategies and initiatives For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/p4wt09 About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Dublin, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "DERMS Market by Offerings (Software, Services), Application (Solar PV Systems, Wind Energy Systems, Energy Storage, Combined Heat & Power Systems, EV Charging Solutions), End-User (Residential, Commercial, Industrial) & Region - Global Forecast to 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS) market is expected to grow from an estimated in USD 0.61 billion in 2024 to USD 1.44 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 18.8% during the forecast period. More use of renewable sources, such as solar and wind power, and decentralized energy systems and grid upgrading, has fostered rapid growth in the business for DERMS. Key drivers include government clean energy programs, development of smart grid technologies, and concerns about enhancing system stability and energy efficiency. Market opportunities include expanded use of DERMS applications in emerging markets, integration with AI and IoT to leverage predictive analytics, and increased focus on virtual power plants and microgrids. DERMS solutions are critical for maximizing distribution, lowering costs, and ensuring sustainability as energy systems become increasingly complex. Services market by offerings, is expected to be the largest segment from 2024 to 2029. The services sector tops the DERMS market because it provides critical functions towards successful deployment, operation, and maintenance of distributed energy resource management systems. Consulting, system integration, training, and continuous support with services help in DERMS deployment optimization across different kinds of energy settings. Tailor-made solutions for end-users are possible by ensuring seamless integration with existing energy infrastructure. In addition, a more complex solution also requires more advanced DERMS solutions. Therefore, services demand grows further, by which the service segment dominates the market. Industrial, by end-user, is expected to be the fastest-growing market from 2024 to 2029 Industrial end-user is the fastest-growing sector in the DERMS market because of the high energy consumption level and the need for efficient management solutions in the sector. Manufacturing, Mining, Logistics, are a few sectors where it is increasingly adopted for the optimization of energy consumption, integration of renewable sources, and reduction in operational costs. Increasing Pressure for Sustainability and Compliance adds to the cause of adoption of DERMS in industrial sectors. Further, industries will benefit from DERMS, as it ensures grid reliability, minimizes downtime, and provides real-time energy insights, all of which make it imperative for any business to invest in advanced energy management solutions. North America is estimated to hold the largest market & Asia Pacific having highest CAGR for the forecasted period in DERMS market. The DERMS market is dominated by North America due to its advanced energy infrastructure, early adoption of renewable energy technologies, and strong regulatory support for grid modernization. The region's focus on sustainability, combined with significant investments in smart grids and distributed energy solutions, drives market growth. The Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market due to rapid industrialization and rising energy demand and an increased adoption of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Government initiatives, subsidies, and progress in smart grid technologies further drive the growth of DERMS in emerging economies such as China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. The DERMS market is dominated by a few major players that have a wide regional presence. Some of the major players in the DERMS market Siemens (Germany), General Electric Company (US), Schneider Electric (France), ABB (Switzerland), and Hitachi, Ltd. (Switzerland), among others. The major strategy adopted by the players includes new product launches, joint ventures, acquisitions, and expansions. The report provides insights on the following: Analysis of key drivers (Growing adoption of renewable energy in power generation due to robust government policies, Pressing need to enhance grid reliability and resilience to mitigate power outage risks), restraints (High installation costs of DERMS, Limited adoption of DERMS due to uncertainties and varying regulations across different jurisdictions), opportunities (Increasing investments in modernizing aging power infrastructure Expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure), and challenges (Interoperability issues among different energy systems and technologies, Cybersecurity risks associated with DERMS) Product Development/ Innovation: The DERMS market is seeing substantial product development and innovation, driven by rising environmental concerns. Companies are investing in improved DERMS technology to manufacture advanced DERMS technologies. Market Development: In July 2023, Schneider Electric and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) partnered to implement a DERMS on Microsoft Azure. This collaboration aims to enhance grid reliability and promote the adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs), including electric vehicles, energy storage solutions, and rooftop solar systems. Market Diversification: In June 2024, Hitachi Energy invested an additional USD 4.5 billion in manufacturing, engineering, digital, R&D, and partnerships by 2027, doubling the investments done in the last three years. It will also support the deployment of power electronics-based solutions, grid automation and software solutions, and services in line with the Hitachi Energy 2030 Plan. Investments will also go into partnerships, supply chain, digitalization, and automation, which are enablers to support capacity expansion and increase speed to market. Competitive Assessment: In-depth analysis of market share, growth plans, and service offerings of top companies in the DERMS market, including Siemens (Germany), General Electric Company (US), Schneider Electric (France), ABB (Switzerland), and Hitachi, Ltd. (Switzerland), among others. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 279 Forecast Period 2024 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $0.61 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $1.44 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 18.8% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: Premium Insights Attractive Opportunities for Players in Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by Geography Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by Offering Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by Application Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by End-user Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market in North America, by Offering and Country Market Dynamics Drivers Growing Adoption of Renewable Energy in Power Generation due to Robust Government Policies Pressing Need to Enhance Grid Reliability and Resilience to Mitigate Power Outage Risks Restraints High Installation Costs of DERMS Limited Adoption of DERMS due to Uncertainties and Varying Regulations Across Different Jurisdictions Opportunities Increasing Investments in Modernizing Aging Power Infrastructure Expansion of Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Challenges Interoperability Issues Among Different Energy Systems and Technologies Cybersecurity Risks Associated with DERMS Case Study Analysis Burns & Mcdonnell Helps Evergy to Install Distributed Energy Resource Management System to Reduce Energy Consumption Smarter Grid Solutions Helps Nrel Increase Penetration of Ders in Over 50% of Homes, Communities, and Grid Levels to Manage Power Flow Using PV System Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by Offering Software Energy Analytics Software - Growing Requirement for Real-Time Visibility into Network Operations to Boost Demand VPP Software - Ability to Forecast Energy Production and Consumption Patterns to Accelerate Demand Management & Control Software - Potential to Increase Grid Resiliency by Automatically Adjusting Output of DERS to Increase Adoption Services - Grid Stability and Reliability Requirements to Drive Demand Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by Application Solar PV Systems - Potential to Monitor, Control, and Optimize Energy Production and Distribution in Real Time to Boost Demand Wind Energy Systems -Significant Need for Efficient Use of Wind Energy to Spur Adoption Energy Storage Systems -Strong Focus on Grid Modernization to Stimulate Market Growth CHP Systems -Government Programs and Incentives to Improve Grid Reliability and Resiliency to Promote Deployment EV Charging Solutions - Huge Investment and High Adoption of Electric Vehicles to Fuel Market Growth Distributed Energy Resource Management System Market, by End-user Residential - Rising Adoption of Smart Home Technology to Fuel Segmental Growth Commercial -Pressing Need to Effectively Utilize Power During Peak Hours to Trigger Demand Industrial - Surging Demand for Energy to Ensure Uninterrupted Plant Operations to Foster Market Growth Company Profiles Key Players Schneider Electric Siemens ABB Hitachi General Electric Emerson Electric Co. Oracle Itron Enel Spa Eaton Aspen Technology Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Energyhub Honeywell International IBM Other Players Open Access Technology International CGI Doosan Gridtech Evergen Virtual Peaker Gridx Gridpoint Connected Energy Autogrid Systems Mprest For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gitk9l About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses Exceeding $100,000 In Zeta To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options If you suffered losses exceeding $100,000 in Zeta between February 27, 2024 and November 13, 2024 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). [Click here to submit your transactions] NEW YORK, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Zeta Global Holdings Corp. (Zeta or the Company) (NYSE: ZETA) and reminds investors of the January 21, 2025 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company. Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com. As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) that Zeta used two-way contracts to artificially inflate financial results; (2) that Zeta engaged in round trip transactions to artificially inflate financial results; (3) that Zeta utilized predatory consent farms to collect user data; (4) that these consent farms have driven almost the entirety of Zetas growth; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants positive statements about the Companys business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. On November 13, 2024, Culper Research published a report alleging that the integrity of the Companys data collection and reported financials is severely undermined by two factors. First, the report alleged that Zeta has formed two-way contracts with third party consent farms wherein the Company simultaneously acts as both a supplier and a buyer of consumer data, allowing the Company to flatter reported revenue growth and indicating possible round-tripping of revenue. Second, the report alleged that Zeta collects the majority of its customer data from a network of sham websites that hoodwink millions of consumers each month into handing their data over to Zeta under false pretenses. For example, the report alleged the Company and its subsidiaries operate a number of fake job boards which are designed to trick individuals into submitting personal data under the pretense of job applications. The report further alleged that the Companys most valuable data comes from these predatory websites, dubbed consent farms, which are responsible for almost the entirety of the Companys growth. On this news, the Companys stock price fell $10.46, or 37.07%, to close at $17.76 per share on November 13, 2024, on unusually heavy trading volume. The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Zetas conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others. To learn more about the Zeta Global Holdings class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/ZETA or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook. Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f08ef15c-387e-4214-8ce6-30cbdada61ea Beijing, China, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- When "Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China" was added to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, Long Shao, a travel vlogger with over 1 million followers on Sina Weibo, began planning his "22 heritages tour" by high-speed train. During ancient times, from Quanzhou port, silk, porcelain, and tea were ferried out of China, while spices, exotic plants, and other treasures were shipped back. Today, China's high-speed railway, with its many advantages including efficiency, cost-effectiveness and high connectivity throughout the nation, has become the first choice of travel for numerous travelers like Long. "With the high-speed railway, my travel plans become more flexible. And it gives me a sense of satisfaction because I can just go whenever I want to," Long told the Global Times. Take the journey from Quanzhou to Jinjiang, also in Fujian, for example, it only takes 10 minutes by high-speed train. Some frequent travelers have said that while the US is a country on wheels, in China's case, it is a country on rails. On his trip, Long managed to visit a stone carving of the philosopher Lao Tzu and Qingjing Temple, famous for its Arabic aesthetics, in the morning in Quanzhou, and then headed to an ancient stone bridge in Jinjiang in the afternoon. At lunch time, he treated himself to a bowl of rouyan, a type of local meat dumpling soup. When he got tired, he embarked on an oolong tea tasting journey by traveling from Quanzhou to Anxi county. "The smooth and modern railway has put some of China's less well-known cultural heritages in the limelight," said Long, who thinks China's high-speed railway is "considerate, friendly and smart." Cultural heritage chaser Quanzhou is also the destination of Pu Ziye, a tourist from North China's Tianjin. After seeing someone wearing a floral accessory called zanhua on the high-speed train while going from her hometown to Quanzhou, the Tianjin girl decided to put this cultural heritage on her must-see list for Quanzhou. This was not the first time she had appreciated local heritage while traveling by train to popular destinations. She recalled that during her trip to South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region years ago, she found that a train attendant was wearing some beautiful and intricate brocade work on her clothes and later learned it was Guangxi's signature Zhuang brocade. She visited Huang Liyong, a zanhua headdress inheritor living in Xunpu village, in the hope of getting one of her own. Despite its small size, Xunpu village boasts more than 200 zanhua headdress shops. During its peak tourism season, the small fishing village typically welcomes over 50,000 visitors, mostly arriving on high-speed trains. "The popularity of zanhua is not accidental; it is the result of Chinese aesthetics colliding with modern cultural tourism," Zhou Xueying, a professor with the School of History at Nanjing University, told the Global Times. 'Panda runner' on a bike For people's daily commute in China, bicycles have been the most important mode of transportation for decades and have never left people's lives, though they have evolved over the past decade. Kim Soo-kyung, a part-time vlogger from South Korea now working and living in Shanghai, has traveled to various cities to see giant pandas. Living in Shanghai for years taught her a good way to explore a Chinese city - by shared bikes. Riding a shared bike is a fun, convenient and eco-friendly method she uses to explore a city and immerse herself in local culture. Calling herself a "panda runner," Kim told the Global Times that she has visited six zoos and breeding bases in China where pandas live. Among them, the Shenshuping giant panda base in the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Southwest China's Sichuan Province stands out as one of her favorite destinations. In Chengdu, she rode a bike like locals to visit the popular panda sculpture along Chunxi Road as well as peruse the rich panda-themed creative cultural products there. And beyond panda culture, Kim has been impressed by another of Chengdu's unique charm, which lies in its harmonious blend of ancient traditions, natural beauty, and modern vibrancy, particularly the leisurely lifestyle reflected in teahouse culture, all reachable by riding a bicycle. Many other Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou have also become beloved places for bike riding among locals and tourists thanks to their bike-friendly facilities and management. Kim told the Global Times that she is "deeply obsessed with bike tours in Chinese cities," as they allow her to live like locals and experience the local vigor. She said she has planned an extended tour to other Chinese cities that also have giant pandas, such as Beijing, famous among panda lovers for Menglan, and Guangzhou in South China's Guangdong Province. In each city, her first choice of traveling inside a city is usually by a shared bicycle. "I am eager to explore the unique charm and beauty of different cities across China while following these giant pandas," she said. Electrified journey Now China has the largest high-speed railway and the largest expressway networks in the world. The operating mileage of its railway network has reached 159,000 kilometers, of which high-speed railways account for 45,000 kilometers. The country had a total of 5.44 million kilometers of roads by the end of 2023, of which expressways accounted for 184,000 kilometers. While the high-speed railway is usually the first choice for business trips, driving a car to vast landscapes like the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has also become common thanks to China's fast developing domestic vehicle ownership and the need for sightseeing. Earlier in 2024, a Beijing local surnamed Zhang bought a Chinese electric vehicle with a range of 700 kilometers. It not only serves his short daily commute route in Beijing; this summer, after a few months of careful planning, he drove his dream car from Beijing to Xinjiang to explore the famous Duku Highway. The 560-kilometer highway, deemed one of China's most beautiful roads, runs through various landscapes including glaciers, forests, and grasslands of Xinjiang. The smart driving technology has also enhanced the fun along the way for he and his wife. Sometimes they drove off the highway and visited small cities at random. It turns out that many local cars have switched from gasoline vehicles to new energy vehicles, and the increase in charging stations have greatly reduced the range anxiety of new energy car owners. With the fast development of China's autonomous driving technology, from L2+ to general scene L4 solutions, China's domestic electric vehicles have made major strides, Zhang Dezhao, president of Beijing Idriverplus Technology, told the Global Times. Many companies like his focus on research and development of autonomous driving vehicles. "With the help of ever-improving ways of travel based on science and technology, more facets of the beauty of China, including natural wonders and the traditional Chinese culture scattered around the country, such as architecture, sculptures, murals, weaving, printing and dyeing, are becoming increasingly reachable and enjoyable, attracting a large number of tourists, including foreign tourists, who go there in person and experience for themselves," Wang, from Beijing International Studies University, noted. Traveling is an essential part of people's daily life. Fortunately, modern China offers unique and various solutions to this need, helping everyone in the country live a common yet uniquely Chinese lifestyle. This article first appeared in the Global Times https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202412/1326030.shtml Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: editor@globaltimes.com.cn Website: https://globaltimes.cn City: Beijing Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of KISS PR or its partners. This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. KISS PR makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cabo Platinum is thrilled to announce a series of captivating new offerings for discerning travelers in 2025, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture, exquisite dining options, and enchanting sounds that define Cabo San Lucas. Visitors can look forward to experiencing luxury at its finest while residing in stunning villas that blend comfort and elegance. Continuing its commitment to exceptional guest experiences, Cabo Platinum introduces a remarkable array of luxury offerings designed to amplify every aspect of your stay and create unforgettable memories. Each luxury villa will be a tranquil haven, outfitted with outstanding amenities and set against breathtaking backdrops. Guests can indulge in cascading infinity pools or relax on pristine beaches while enveloping the region's unique flavors, sounds, and traditions. In 2025, Cabo Platinums concierge team will curate personalized outings to accentuate Mexican culture's richness. Guests can enjoy private dining experiences crafted by Executive Chefs, showcasing locally foraged ingredients skillfully paired with premium Mexican spirits. Culinary enthusiasts will embark on a gastronomic journey through traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine, highlighting regional flavors and techniques that honor the Baja Peninsula's culinary legacy. Our Executive Chefs are prepared to create any desired dish, including innovative new menus for the upcoming year, for those looking for culinary flexibility. Beyond elegant dining and live music, Cabo Platinum invites guests to discover Cabo San Lucas through meticulously curated excursions that explore local customs and traditions. From rejuvenating yoga sessions on the beach to serene sunset cruises on luxurious yachts, each activity is designed to deepen travelers' appreciation for the beauty and culture of the area. Cabo Platinum understands the importance of family, offering trained nannies to ensure that every family member enjoys a memorable and engaging vacation experience. Mishan Andre, Managing Partner at Cabo Platinum, expresses, Our mission is to create a home away from home where guests can relax and connect with the beauty of Cabo San Lucas. We strive to provide experiences beyond the ordinary, allowing our guests to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the luxury they deserve. With an unwavering dedication to luxury, adventure, and relaxation, Cabo Platinum stands out as the ultimate destination for travelers seeking authentic Mexican experiences in a stunning villa setting. Discover the magic of Cabo San Lucas with unparalleled service and hospitality that reflects the warmth and spirit of this breathtaking destination. Contact: marketing@caboplatinum.com Karina Herrera +52-624-237-8879 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d62f18b-ae65-4013-8c1c-e1d96d1d7311 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43448816-6491-4da4-bf0d-df2f63912c96 LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alchera X (AX) has had a wonderful year and several achievements over the course of 2024. They proudly announce that their President and CEO, Michael Plaksin, has been selected earlier this year as a Visionary in the prestigious C-Suite Magazine produced by the L.A. Times B2B Publishing division. This annual publication celebrates top CEOs across Southern California, spotlighting transformative leaders who drive innovation and success in their industries. The C-Suite Magazine, now in its fourth year, highlights individuals making impactful changes and leading some of the region's most successful organizations. The publication highlights top CEOs in Southern California who are spearheading successful organizations. In the 2024 edition, Plaksins exceptional leadership at AX is prominently featured focusing on meaningful technological expansion within the areas of robotics, hospitality and other channels of product distribution using Artificial Intelligence. Under CEO Michael Plaksins guidance, the company has become a leader in AI SaaS innovation, redefining visual and facial recognition technology for critical applications across industries. Notable achievements under Plaksins leadership include: Revolutionizing AI SaaS Solutions : Partnering with the California Governors Office to deploy AI-powered solutions for visual recognition across industries. : Partnering with the California Governors Office to deploy AI-powered solutions for visual recognition across industries. Global Strategic Collaborations : Establishing partnerships with industry leaders to integrate Alchera Xs advanced AI technology and boosting brand recognition. : Establishing partnerships with industry leaders to integrate Alchera Xs advanced AI technology and boosting brand recognition. Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation: Showcasing Alchera Xs cutting-edge solutions at international sustainability forums and positioning the company as a global leader in emerging technologies. Its an honor to be included in the LA Times C-Suite Magazine alongside such distinguished leaders, said Michael Plaksin. This recognition underscores the hard work and dedication of the entire AX team in harnessing the power of AI to solve complex challenges and create a sustainable path forward, working on Visual and Facial Recognition AI SaaS development with our current and future partners. This years C-Suite Magazine also introduces curated lists of top accounting and business consulting firms in Los Angeles and Orange Counties and features a recap of the 2024 CFO Forum & Leadership Awards, showcasing discussions on innovation and talent retention. Alchera X extends its heartfelt congratulations to Michael Plaksin for this well-deserved recognition. His visionary leadership continues to inspire and drive the organizations mission to leverage technology for transformative change. About LA Times The Los Angeles Times B2B Publishing division is a leading platform that celebrates outstanding business leaders and organizations across Southern California. Through its various publications and events, it shines a spotlight on those who are shaping industries and communities with innovation, leadership, and vision. About AX Founded in 2016, AX is an artificial intelligence Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company that has developed award-winning proprietary technology in the areas of facial and visual artificial intelligence (AI) including facial recognition, augmented reality, and more. AX develops and distributes innovative products that enhance safety and security across various industries worldwide. AX utilizes AI to provide facial and visual recognition in real time on a 24/7/365 basis. Our technology seamlessly integrates into existing camera/monitor systems. We offer the most informative, effective, and supportive user interface system in the market today. Our AI has been used on over 1,000 cameras throughout the Western United States and is considered to be the de facto standard in AI. Join the Conversation: Follow us on LinkedIn AX and FireScout , Twitter and YouTube . Media Contact: Palak Kapasi Head of Marketing & Public Relations, AX AXmedia@alcherainc.com College Station, Texas, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- After an extensive search, Joseph Paulraj, Capital Farm Credit (CFC) Senior Vice President of IT Systems, has been appointed as CFCs first Executive Vice President, Chief Digital Officer. Beginning tomorrow, he will be joining the CFC Executive Management Team as a senior leader in the Association. In his new role, Paulraj will lead CFCs digital transformation and strategy, overseeing the development and implementation of digital initiatives that drive innovation, leverage technology and optimize CFCs digital channels. His efforts will be crucial in enhancing customer satisfaction, improving efficiency and driving revenue growth. In this era of big data and machine learning, we believe it is important to have an individual on the executive team that can help us leverage information to best enhance the employee and the customer experience, CEO Jeff Norte said. Joseph will help make us a leader in this area. He is highly collaborative and well respected by many of his peers, and we are grateful that he is stepping into this new role. Paulraj will continue to lead the IT department, which includes consulting, infrastructure and support, and information security teams, and will now report directly to Norte. Throughout his career at Capital Farm Credit, Paulraj has led several transformative initiatives, including the design and execution of a 3-year IT roadmap that drove innovation and aligned technology with organizational goals. He implemented cutting-edge solutions, such as cloud adoption, workflow, low-code platforms, and generative AI models, enhancing efficiency and future-proofing operations for long-term success. As an active leader in several Farm Credit System IT groups, he fosters collaboration through training, outreach and strategic partnerships, driving innovation across the system. Paulraj was awarded the 2022 Solution Innovation Award from Nintex, a breakthrough in financial services, and has accepted his nomination for the prestigious Houston CIO ORBIE Award, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and excellence in technology. He holds a masters degree in IT Management (MSITM) from Indiana University and a bachelors degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Anna University in Chennai, India. He has also worked for Parsley Energy, Farm Credit Bank of Texas, Chevron, and Ramboll Infomatic in Denmark. About Capital Farm Credit For more than 100 years, Capital Farm Credit has supported rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services. Capital Farm Credit is a proud member of the Farm Credit system and serves more than 23,000 members, with loans outstanding totaling more than $12 billion. Headquartered in College Station, Texas, Capital Farm Credit has offices serving 192 of Texas 254 counties. For more information about its financial services, patronage dividend program and office locations, visit CapitalFarmCredit.com. -30- Connect with Capital Farm Credit: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn Los Angeles, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- What: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) is joining Habitat for Humanity organizations around the globe in honoring the countless contributions President Jimmy Carter has made to the organization and to Habitat homeowners over nearly four decades. Habitat LA will host a door signing to symbolize the many doors of opportunity President Carter helped make possible through his life of service to others. The public is invited to pay a personal tribute to President Carter by signing the door with their name or personal message. When: Friday, January 3, 2025 Time: 1pm-2pm Where: Habitat LA Headquarters (8739 E. Artesia Blvd., Bellflower, CA 90706) Who: Erin Rank, Habitat LA President & CEO Janice Hahn, Member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Jose Tobar, Habitat Homeowner from the 1995 Jimmy Carter Work Project Craig Russell, International Carter Work Project Volunteer Matt Petersen, International Carter Work Project Volunteer About Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) transforms neighborhoods throughout greater Los Angeles by bringing the community together to build affordable homes, provide critical home repairs and help families rebuild after natural disasters. Habitat LA strengthens families by helping them access affordable loans, housing counseling, and down-payment assistance. For more information about Habitat LA visit https://www.habitatla.org. Attachment THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ring Energy, Inc. (NYSE American: REI) (Ring or the Company) today announced that it has issued its 2024 Sustainability Report (the 2024 Report), which is available on the Companys website at www.ringenergy.com under the Sustainability tab. The 2024 Report marks the fourth consecutive annual update. It provides comprehensive information about Rings Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives and continued ESG progress on multiple fronts, including multi-year targeted capital investments, that are directly contributing to the Companys further sustainability. The 2024 Report highlights the significant benefits afforded by Rings recent strategic acquisitions and asset dispositions, the combination of which provide the opportunity to further invest in leading technologies designed to reduce the Companys relative environmental footprint over time, enhance its employee training and benefits programs, and partner with the local communities in which the Company operates. One key example of Rings ongoing sustainability success in 2023 was the 59% year-over-year decrease in Scope 1 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions that was primarily associated with the Companys successful efforts to reduce flaring and casing gas venting. In the creation of the document, the Company primarily consulted the Sustainability Accounting Standards Boards (SASB) Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Sustainability Accounting Standard and the Global Sustainability Standards Boards Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and associated Oil & Gas Sector Standards. In addition, the Company considered the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) promulgated by the United Nations, and guidance from other industry frameworks and the various ESG ratings agencies, as appropriate. About Ring Energy, Inc. Ring Energy, Inc. is an oil and gas exploration, development, and production company with current operations focused on the development of its Permian Basin assets. For additional information, please visit www.ringenergy.com. Safe Harbor Statement This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements involve a wide variety of risks and uncertainties, and include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Companys sustainability / ESG strategy and related efforts, as well as the expected continued positive impact from recent strategic acquisitions, asset dispositions, and other corporate actions. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which are disclosed in the Companys reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, and its other filings. Ring undertakes no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Contact Information Al Petrie Advisors Al Petrie, Senior Partner Phone: 281-975-2146 Email: apetrie@ringenergy.com SINGAPORE, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On December 31, 2024, Cristiano Veloso, the Chief Executive Officer of Verde AgriTech Ltd. (Verde), transferred 4,779,829 shares (the Shares) of Verde to a trust of which he is neither a beneficiary nor a trustee. Prior to the transfer, he held 9,559,659 shares and 3,342,511 options, representing approximately 18.57% of the issued and outstanding shares on an undiluted basis and 22.37% on a partially-diluted basis. Following the transfer, he holds 4,779,830 shares, and 3,342,511 options, representing approximately 9.28% of the issued and outstanding shares on an undiluted basis and 14.08% on a partially-diluted basis. The Shares were transferred by Mr. Veloso for personal financial planning reasons. Mr. Veloso has prepared an early warning reporting in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 62-103 The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues that will appear under Verdes profile on www.sedarplus.ca. For additional information or to obtain a copy of the report, please contact: Andrew Newbury DSA Corporate Services Inc. 82 Richmond St East Toronto, ON M5C 1P1, Canada (416) 848 - 6869 | F (416) 848 - 0790 GREENWICH, CT, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Belpointe PREP, LLC (NYSE American: OZ) (Belpointe OZ, we, us, our, or the Company), the first publicly traded qualified opportunity fund, today announced that its annual meeting of unitholders (the Annual Meeting), originally scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. E.T., has been adjourned. The adjournment was necessary as a quorum, defined as the minimum number of units required to conduct business, was not present either in person or by proxy when the Annual Meeting was called to order. The adjourned Annual Meeting will be reconvened on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. E.T. at the Companys corporate headquarters, located at 255 Glenville Road, Greenwich, Connecticut 06831. Unitholders planning to attend the meeting in person are requested to contact Belpointe OZs Investor Relations team at 1-833-828-2721 or via email at IR@belpointeoz.com for further details. The record date for the Annual Meeting remains unchanged as October 30, 2024. Unitholders who have already submitted their proxy or voted and do not wish to change their vote do not need to take any additional action. There are no changes to the agenda or the items of business to be voted upon at the Annual Meeting. Belpointe OZ encourages all unitholders to review the Companys definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on November 5, 2024, along with other related proxy materials. These documents are available free of charge on the SECs website at www.sec.gov. To request a separate copy of the proxy materials or for further assistance, unitholders may contact our Investor Relations team by: Phone : 1-833-828-2721 : 1-833-828-2721 Mail : Belpointe PREP, LLC, 255 Glenville Road, Greenwich, Connecticut 06831 : Belpointe PREP, LLC, 255 Glenville Road, Greenwich, Connecticut 06831 Email: IR@belpointeoz.com About Belpointe OZ Belpointe OZ is a publicly traded qualified opportunity fund, listed on NYSE American under the symbol OZ. To date, Belpointe OZ has over 2,500 units in its development pipeline throughout four cities, representing an approximate total project cost of over $1.3 billion. Belpointe OZ has filed two registration statements (including a combined prospectus) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the offer and sale of up to an aggregate of $1,500,000,000 of Class A units representing limited liability interests in Belpointe OZ (the Class A units). Before you invest, you should read Belpointe OZs most recent prospectus and the other documents that it has filed with the SEC for more complete information about Belpointe OZ and the offering. Investing in Belpointe OZs Class A units involves a high degree of risk, including a complete loss of investment. Prior to making an investment decision, you should carefully consider Belpointe OZs investment objectives and strategy, risk factors, fees and expenses and any tax consequences that may results from an investment in Belpointe OZs Class A units. To view Belpointe OZs most recent prospectus containing this and other important information visit sec.gov or investors.belpointeoz.com. Alternatively, you may request Belpointe OZ send you the prospectus by calling (203) 883-1944 or emailing IR@belpointeoz.com. Read the prospectus in its entirety before making an investment decision. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking, such as statements containing estimates, projections, and other forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words and phrases such as anticipate, estimate, believe, continue, could, intend, may, plan, potential, predict, seek, should, will, would, expect, objective, projection, forecast, goal, guidance, outlook, effort, target or the negative of such words and other comparable terminology. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Any forward-looking statements expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors beyond our control. Therefore, we caution you against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed in any forward-looking statement. Except as required by applicable law, including federal securities laws, we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform them to actual results or revised expectations. Investor Relations and Media Contact: Cody H. Laidlaw Belpointe PREP, LLC 255 Glenville Road Greenwich, Connecticut 06831 IR@belpointeoz.com 203-883-1944 TORONTO, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Guardian Capital LP ("Guardian Capital") announces the confirmed amounts of the annual special year-end distributions (the "Special Distributions") for the 2024 tax year for the ETF series of the Guardian Capital funds listed below (the Guardian Capital ETFs). Guardian Capital ETFs Series of ETF Units Trading Symbol Exchange Confirmed Special Distribution Amount (per ETF Unit) GuardBondsTM 1-3 Year Laddered Investment Grade Bond Fund ETF Units GBLF Cboe Canada CAD$0.0127 Guardian Canadian Bond Fund ETF Units GCBD TSX CAD$0.2452 Guardian Canadian Focused Equity Fund ETF Units GCFE TSX CAD$1.0905 Guardian i3 International Quality Growth Fund ETF Units GIQI Cboe Canada CAD$0.0093 Guardian International Equity Select Fund ETF Units GIES TSX CAD$1.0189 The Guardian Capital ETFs listed below will not be paying any Special Distributions: GuardBondsTM 2025 Investment Grade Bond Fund ETF Units GBFB Cboe Canada CAD$0 GuardBondsTM 2026 Investment Grade Bond Fund ETF Units GBFC Cboe Canada CAD$0 GuardBondsTM 2027 Investment Grade Bond Fund ETF Units GBFD Cboe Canada CAD$0 Guardian Canadian Sector Controlled Equity Fund Unhedged ETF Units GCSC TSX CAD$0 Guardian Directed Equity Path Portfolio Hedged ETF Units GDEP TSX CAD$0 Guardian Directed Equity Path Portfolio Unhedged ETF Units GDEP.B TSX CAD$0 Guardian Directed Premium Yield Portfolio Hedged ETF Units GDPY TSX CAD$0 Guardian Directed Premium Yield Portfolio Unhedged ETF Units GDPY.B TSX CAD$0 Guardian i3 Global Quality Growth ETF Hedged ETF Units GIQG TSX CAD$0 Guardian i3 Global Quality Growth ETF Unhedged ETF Units GIQG.B TSX CAD$0 Guardian i3 US Quality Growth Fund Hedged ETF Units GIQU TSX CAD$0 Guardian i3 US Quality Growth Fund Unhedged ETF Units GIQU.B TSX CAD$0 Guardian Investment Grade Corporate Bond Fund ETF Units GIGC TSX CAD$0 Guardian Strategic Income Fund ETF Units GSIF Cboe Canada CAD$0 Guardian Ultra-Short Canadian T-Bill Fund ETF Units GCTB TSX CAD$0 Guardian Ultra-Short U.S. T-Bill Fund ETF Units GUTB.U TSX US$0 GuardPath Managed Decumulation 2042 Fund ETF Units GPMD TSX CAD$0 Each of the Guardian Capital ETFs is required to distribute any net income and capital gains that it has earned in the year. The Special Distributions will generally consist of capital gains and/or any excess net income at year-end. The Special Distributions will not be paid in cash, but will be reinvested and the resulting ETF units immediately consolidated so that the number of ETF units held by each investor will not change. Investors holding their ETF units outside registered plans will have taxable amounts to report and will have an increase in the adjusted cost base of their investment. In all cases, the Special Distributions will be reinvested on or about December 31, 2024 to unitholders of record on December 30, 2024. The ex-dividend date in each case is anticipated to be December 30, 2024. These confirmed amounts are for the Special Distributions only and do not include the ongoing regular monthly, quarterly or annual cash distribution amounts which were announced on December 13, 2024, in a separate press release. These confirmed Special Distribution amounts replace the previous estimates announced on November 29, 2024. The actual taxable amounts of all distributions for 2024, including the tax characteristics of the distributions, will be reported to brokers (through CDS Clearing and Depository Services Inc. or "CDS") and will be posted on the Guardian Capital website in early 2025. For further information regarding the Guardian Capital ETFs, please visit www.guardiancapital.com/investmentsolutions. About Guardian Capital LP Guardian Capital LP is the manager and portfolio manager of the Guardian Capital Funds and Guardian Capital ETFs, with capabilities that span a range of asset classes, geographic regions and specialty mandates. Additionally, Guardian Capital LP manages portfolios for institutional clients such as defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans, insurance companies, foundations, endowments and investment funds. Guardian Capital LP is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian Capital Group Limited and the successor to its original investment management business, which was founded in 1962. For further information on Guardian Capital LP, please call 416-350-8899 or visit www.guardiancapital.com. About Guardian Capital Group Limited Guardian Capital Group Limited (Guardian) is a global investment management company servicing institutional, retail and private clients through its subsidiaries. As of September 30, 2024, Guardian had C$165.1 billion of total client assets while managing a proprietary investment portfolio with a fair market value of C$1.2 billion. Founded in 1962, Guardians reputation for steady growth, long-term relationships and its core values of authenticity, integrity, stability and trustworthiness have been key to its success over six decades. Its Common and Class A shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange as GCG and GCG.A, respectively. To learn more about Guardian, visit www.guardiancapital.com. For further information, please contact: Angela Shim AShim@guardiancapital.com Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements Certain information included in this press release may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as outlook, objective, may, will, would, expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, believe, should, plan, continue, or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events or the negative thereof. Forward-looking information in this press release may include statements with respect to managements beliefs, plans, estimates, and intentions, and similar statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations. Such forward-looking information reflects managements beliefs and is based on information currently available. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information, as there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. Guardian Capital undertakes no obligation, except as required by applicable law, to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Unlike traditional exchange traded funds (ETFs), the GuardPathTM Managed Decumulation 2042 Fund (the GuardPath ETF) is a unique investment fund structure and investors should carefully consider whether his or her financial condition and investment objectives are aligned with this retirement-focused investment. The GuardPath ETF may be suitable for an investor primarily concerned about having sufficient income in retirement, especially in the later years of their life. It may not be suitable for an investor whose primary objective is to leave capital behind for their estate. The GuardPath ETF is not an insurance company, nor an insurance or annuity contract and unitholders will not have the protections of insurance laws. Distributions provided by the GuardPath ETF are not guaranteed or backed by an insurance company or any third party. The long-term total return and the sustainability of the rate of distributions of the GuardPath ETF may be impacted by volatility and sequence of returns risk. This is not a complete list of the risks associated with an investment in the GuardPath ETF. Please refer to the prospectus of the GuardPath ETF for details. This communication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase Guardian Capital ETFs and is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax, legal or accounting advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. Commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investments in the Guardian Capital ETFs. Please read the prospectus before investing. For ETFs other than money market funds, unit values change frequently. ETFs are not guaranteed and past performance may not be repeated. You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell units of an ETF on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) or Cboe Canada Inc. (Cboe). If the units are purchased or sold on the TSX or Cboe, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying units of the ETF and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them. ETF and mutual fund securities, including units of the Guardian Capital ETFs, are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or by any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurances that the Guardian Ultra-Short Canadian T-Bill Fund or the Guardian Ultra-Short U.S. T-Bill Fund will be able to maintain the net asset value per unit of the mutual fund units at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in these money market funds will be returned to you. All trademarks, registered and unregistered, are owned by Guardian Capital Group Limited and are used under license. VANCOUVER, December 30, 2024 - Golden Lake Exploration Inc. ("Golden Lake" or the "Company") (CSE:GLM)(OTCQB:GOLXF) announces that, effective immediately, Mr. Leon Ho will replace Mr. John Masters as Chief Financial Officer. "I'd like to thank Mr. Masters for his years of service with us here as he heads into retirement. He will be missed very much," stated CEO Mike England. Mr. Ho is a chartered professional accountant with years of experience working with mining exploration companies at Cross Davis & Company LLP, a chartered professional accountant firm providing accounting services to publicly listed entities, primarily in the mining sector. About Golden Lake Exploration Inc: Golden Lake Exploration is a junior public mining exploration company engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets. Its objective is to acquire, explore and develop economic precious and base metal properties of merit and to aggressively advance its exploration program on the Jewel Ridge property. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Mike England" Mike England, CEO & DIRECTOR FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Telephone: 1-604-683-3995 Toll-Free: 1-888-945-4770 Email: info@goldenlakex.com The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Golden Lake Exploration Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) ("Giant Mining" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its news releases dated December 4th and 5th, 2024, the Company has closed the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement (the "NBPP") comprised of 25,650,000 units (the "Units") in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.10 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,565,000. Each Unit consists of one common share (each, a "Share") and one transferable Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Share of the Company at a price of $0.25 per share for a period of 12 months from the date of issuance. The Warrants have an acceleration provision, which provides that in the event that after four months and one day after the Warrants are issued, the weighted average daily trading price of the Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange, or such other market as the Shares may trade from time to time, is or exceeds $0.40 for any five (5) consecutive trading days, the Company may provide notice, whether by written notice or the issuance of a news release (the "Acceleration Notice") to the Warrant holder that the expiry date of the Warrants has been accelerated and that Warrants not exercised within 30 days of the date of the Acceleration Notice will expire 30 days from the date of the Acceleration Notice. The Company anticipates closing a second and final tranche of the NBPP in short order. As further announced on December 19th, 2024, the Company also completed a listed issuer financing exemption (the "LIFE Offering") non-brokered private placement consisting of 1,371,040 Shares at a price of $0.12 per Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $164,524.80. In combination, the Company has cumulatively raised gross proceeds of $2,729,524.80. The LIFE Offering was completed pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions. Accordingly, the Shares issued in the LIFE Offering are not subject to a statutory hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document related to the LIFE Offering, which can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.giantminingcorp.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document prior to making any investment decisions. The securities issued pursuant to the NBPP and LIFE Offering have not, nor will they be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons in the absence of U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from the U.S. registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Certain insiders of Giant Mining purchased an aggregate of 2,750,000 Units in the NBPP (the "Insider Participation"). The Insider Participation is exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 based on that the fair market value of such Insider Participation does not exceed 25% of Giant Mining's market capitalization. In connection with the NBPP, the Company paid an aggregate of $60,800 in cash finders' fees and issued an aggregate of 608,000 Finders' Warrants. The Finders' Warrants are non-transferable and have the same terms as the Warrants forming part of the Units. The Units including the Shares, Warrants and Finders' Warrants issued as part of the NBPP are subject to a hold period until May 1, 2025, pursuant to applicable securities legislation. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the NBPP and LIFE Offering on its core drilling program, updating 43-101 report and general working capital. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. On Behalf of the Board of Giant Mining Corp. "David Greenway" David C. Greenway President & CEO For further information, please contact: E: info@giantminingcorp.com P: 1 (604) 790-7291 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS www.giantminingcorp.com LIKE AND FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn DOWNLOAD INVESTOR INFORMATION Click Here Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain forward?looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward?looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Toronto, December 31, 2024 - Trojan Gold Inc. (CSE: TGII) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed a non-brokered private placement of units ("Units") through the issuance of 1,454,452 Units at a price of $0.05 per Unit for total gross proceeds of $72,722.62. The consideration was the settlement of debts owed by the Company to debtholders in the amount of $72,722.62. The Units are composed of one common share in the capital of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one additional common share in the capital of the Company for a period of 24 months from the closing date at an exercise price of $0.10. All securities comprising the Units are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period from the closing date. No finders' fees were paid in connection with the issuance of the Units. About Trojan Gold Inc. Trojan is an active Ontario-based prospect generator junior exploration company, led by a team of professionals having exploration, engineering, project financing and permitting experience. Trojan has accumulated land positions in the Hemlo Gold Camp and Shebandowan Greenstone Belt which in management's view represent mineral exploration potential. For further information on the Company, please visit www.trojangold.com. Trojan is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol (CSE: TGII), on the OTC Pink Market under the ticker symbol TRJGF and on the Frankfurt Exchange under the symbol KC1. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions, and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. Forward-looking information contained in this press release includes, but is not limited to, potential future exploration potential and success of such exploration activities. Where the Company expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is based on assumptions made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. Such assumptions include, without limitation, that sufficient capital will be available to the Company that will allow it to undertake exploration activities on its properties. However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected, or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, the impact of the recovery post COVID 19 pandemic and its impact on precious metals; there being no assurance that the exploration program will result in expanded mineral resources; risks and uncertainties inherent to any mineral resource estimates; receipt of necessary approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future gold and other metal prices; accidents, labour disputes and shortages; environmental and other risks of the mining industry. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as at the date hereof and are based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations, and opinions of management on such date. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise any such forward-looking statements or any forward-looking statements contained in any other documents whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required under applicable securities law. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties, and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235520 Vancouver, December 31, 2024 - Primary Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV: HDRO) (the "Company" or "Primary") is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Jelena Veljovic as Chief Financial Officer of the Company effective immediately. Ms. Veljovic replaces Mr. Joel Leonard, who has served as CFO since September 2020. The Company wishes to thank Mr. Leonard for fulfilling that role and to express its appreciation for his service. Ms. Veljovic provides accounting services to public companies through Treewalk Consulting Inc., a growing professional services advisory firm in Vancouver, British Columbia. Prior to her time at Treewalk Consulting Inc., Ms. Veljovic worked as an accounting technician with Focus LLP, a public accounting firm in the Calgary, AB market, supporting with taxation services for private companies and individuals. The Company also announces the granting of 150,000 incentive stock options to Ms. Veljovic, which will vest in four equal tranches over 12 months, and the grant of 65,000 incentive stock options to a consultant of the Company, which will vest immediately. Each incentive stock option is exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price $0.48 for a period of five years from the date of grant. About Primary Hydrogen Corp. Primary Hydrogen Corp. is a natural hydrogen exploration company with an extensive portfolio of properties covering over 210 square kilometres across Canada including the Blakelock and Hopkins projects in Ontario, the Mary's Harbour project in Labrador, the Point Rosie project in Newfoundland, and the Crooked Amphibolite, Coquihalla, and Cogburn projects in BC. The Company also holds the Arthur Lake copper project in British Columbia. -- Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, inherent risks associated with the mining industry and the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties, stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations, general market and industry conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion & analysis. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235629 Vancouver, December 31, 2024 - Element79 Gold Corp. (CSE: ELEM, FSE: 7YS0, OTC: ELMGF) ("Element79 Gold" or "the Company") is pleased to share a summary of progress on Federal-level Peruvian small scale mining Formalization, a final 2024 update on its negotiations relative to renewing its surface access rights at its past-producing Lucero mine in Chachas, Arequipa, Peru and a glance at what to expect into 2025 with this project. Quick Review of Peru ASM Formalization By means of a simplified explanation, in Peru, the mineral rights in the country are held by the federal government and they are leased out to third parties on an annual basis. Separately, as a generalization, surface rights in and around communities are held by those communities for their use, distribution and development as the local community sees fit. Over the past several years, there has been a Federal-level initiative to Formalize ~80,000 REINFO permit holders (Translation: Artisanal small-scale production or processing). The Federal objective is to bring greater order, control, working and operating standards, fair taxation and infrastructure development for the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) segment of the Peruvian mining industry. REINFO permit holders that Formalize will be allowed to keep operating. The Federal deadline for Formalization has shifted several times, with the most recently planned date being December 31, 2024. Without a final formal structure to enact this change, the Federal Government recently pushed this Formalization date out to June 30, 2025. Review of Lucero Mine Social Since Acquisition Lucero is a past producing mine project (1989-2005) encompassing 10,813 hectares of contiguous land located in Chachas, Arequipa, Peru. Element79 Gold Corp completed a full corporate acquisition of Calipuy Resources Ltd., a private company that held the mineral rights to the Lucero project, as well as a small-scale production permit (REINFO, permitting underground exploration and production) in June 2022. Through the end of 2022 and start of 2023, the Company worked with past Chachas administrations ("the Community") to obtain access to the Lucero mine and execute two exploration and sampling programs in 2023. [1], [2] At the end of 2023, the terms of both the former mayor of Chachas and the former head of the local artisanal miner's association, Lomas Doradas ended. Past representations from the Community buoyed the Company's perspective on the probability of permit renewals through the first half of 2024. However, the new administration has been slow to enact new permits. Through 2024, the Company continued with several community-development focused initiatives, opened a field office in Chachas, and carried out ongoing community efforts with its highly-reputable and well-known community team, GAE Peru. This intensifying community relations work has helped the Chachas-region community at large to understand the Company's vision and 'we all win together' mentality. These efforts yielded a greater-community vote of over 75% approval on October 6th, 2024 to have the local administration complete long-term surface access contracts with the Company for mutual benefit and growth as the mine is brought back to commercial production. Large parts of this approval are centered around the community understanding that there will be greater win-win benefits as Element79 Gold Corp continues developing the mine to restart production. In line with the newly extended deadline for the formalization of REINFOS is June 30, 2025, Lomas Doradas has requested to formalize 65 REINFO exploitation contracts with the Company, each with five-year terms. Since this approval on October 6, 2024, the Company via its community relations team have been meeting with the Community leadership, and state-level authorities. The Community indicated that its goal was to have these contracts executed before the end of the year. Despite best efforts and getting closer to final agreements on terms, the Community has now pushed the completion of the contracts to the next General Assembly of April 2025. The Company holds the Lucero Project including the mineral rights to the mine and exploration assets, and has signed a LOI for exclusive purchase rights to the Tailings as a significant business investment. The Company maintains their value as a significant opportunity for generating revenue in the near term. Next Steps Following guidance from the Company's field team at GAE, which has spent months in Chachas, holding face-to-face meetings with the various community leaders and heads of Lomas Doradas, as well as state-level administration, the Company plans to finalize agreements from both a legal and social perspective. It has become clear that formally requesting Arequipa GREM (Development for Energy & Mines) and ARMA (State Environmental body) to act as institutional mediators is required to bring final long-term agreements between Element79 Gold Corp (via its wholly-owned subsidiary Minas Lucero del Sur), the Chachas Community, and the Lomas Doradas Association to completion. It is currently estimated that within the first quarter of 2025, a few mine site visits and two to three mediation sessions by the GREM team in the same timeline, final agreements will be achieved. The Company is coordinating with legal counsel for these efforts and looks forward to having these key contracts complete for the General Assembly in April, as the rainy season ends. After the agreements are completed, the Company's core focus would shift to exploration and mining-related matters, preparing for 2025 campaigns to kick off. About Element79 Gold Corp. Element79 Gold is a mining company actively exploring and developing its portfolio of assets, including the high-grade, past-producing Lucero project in Arequipa, Peru, and properties along the Battle Mountain Trend in Nevada. The Company also holds an option to acquire the Dale Property in Ontario and is advancing the Plan of Arrangement spin-out process for its wholly owned subsidiary, Synergy Metals Corp. For further details on this announcement and the Company's projects, please visit www.element79.gold. Contact Information For corporate matters, please contact: James C. Tworek, Chief Executive Officer E-mail: jt@element79.gold For investor relations inquiries, please contact: Investor Relations Department Phone: +1.403.850.8050 E-mail: investors@element79.gold Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements This press contains "forward?looking information" and "forward-looking statements" under applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward?looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance, business prospects or opportunities that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management made considering management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the completion of the Spin-Out Arrangement, the completion of the Amalgamation, the completion of the Concurrent Financing, the Company's business strategy; future planning processes; exploration activities; the timing and result of exploration activities; capital projects and exploration activities and the possible results thereof; acquisition opportunities; and the impact of acquisitions, if any, on the Company. Assumptions may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Consequently, forward-looking statements cannot be guaranteed. As such, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, assumptions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward?looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "forecast", "potential", "target", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward?looking statements". \ Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. On December 29, Jeju Air flight 7C2216, traveling from Bangkok, Thailand, to Jeju, South Korea, tragically crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport. The accident claimed at least 177 lives. South Korean church leaders expressed deep condolences, pledging to share in the pain and pray for Gods comfort, while urging swift action from the government and authorities to address the tragedy and prevent future occurrences. The crash occurred at 9 a.m. local time when the Boeing 737-800 aircraft veered off the runway, collided with a wall, and caught fire. Of the 181 people onboard, most were South Koreans, with two Thai passengers also among them. Two surviving crew members were rescued and hospitalized. South Koreas two largest church associations released statements mourning the disaster. According to Christian Daily Korea, Reverend Jeong Ryeo-young, president of the Korean Christian Council (KCC), shared his condolences: "We express deep sorrow and sympathy for those who lost their lives and their families in the Muan Airport tragedy. This devastating disaster fills us with profound grief. While no words can fully console such immense pain, we stand together in bearing this sorrow and sharing in the burden." The KCC called on the government and authorities to prioritize handling the incident: "We urge the government to mobilize all available resources to address this accident swiftly and thoroughly. Furthermore, steps must be taken to ensure such tragedies are never repeated." Similarly, Reverend Kim Jong-hyuk, president of the Communion of Churches in Korea (CCIK), issued a statement expressing solidarity: "The Korean church stands with the grieving families and prays for the swift recovery of the injured, seeking Gods comfort for the entire nation. We will unite in prayer for the victims and urge everyone to find strength in comforting one another." Reverend Kim emphasized the need for responsible action: "We implore the government, airlines, and all stakeholders to prioritize rescue efforts and address this incident promptly. It is imperative that measures are implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future." Kim also warned against politicizing the disaster: "In a time of national crisis like this, it is crucial to avoid any political interpretations or exploitation of the tragedy. We hope the government and National Assembly will work together to handle the situation with unity." The crash has drawn international attention. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy shared his sorrow on social media, writing, "Deeply saddened by this news." He extended condolences to the people of South Korea and Thailand and all those mourning loved ones. Boeing issued a statement expressing their sympathies: "We are in contact with Jeju Air and stand ready to provide support. Our thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones, as well as with the passengers and crew." Jeju Air also apologized, stating: "We deeply regret this incident and extend our sincere apologies to all affected. We will do everything in our power to address the situation and resolve the impact caused." Next article: Five charged in connection with Liam Payne's death Featured Man to sweep court premises for 40 days over wallet, ATM cards theft Graphic online Showbiz News Dec - 31 - 2024 , 16:56 1 minute read A Kaduna Chief Magistrates Court on Tuesday ordered a 23-year-old man, Rabiu Gambo, to sweep the court premises for 40 days for stealing a wallet. The Magistrate, Ibrahim Emmanuel, sentenced Gambo after he pleaded guilty to theft. Emmanuel held that the court was lenient on the convict because he did not waste the judges time by pleading guilt. He warned Gambo to desist from committing any crime after serving his punishment. Advertisement Emmanuel said that the sentence would serve as deterrent to others. The prosecution, Insp Chidi Leo, told the court that on Dec. 27, one Yusuf Mai-shago of Ungwan Sarki, Kaduna, reported the matter at the Malali Police Station for investigation. Leo said Gambo stole the complainants wallet containing N50,000, two ATM cards and other identity cards. The prosecutor said the offence contravened the Penal Code of Kaduna State, 2017. Source: VanguardNgr Featured RODNEYS POTPOURRI: Greetings to God and Caesar Rodney Nkrumah-Boateng Opinion Dec - 31 - 2024 , 05:59 5 minutes read Today is the last day of the year. Perhaps the most noteworthy issue of the day will be the many church services tonight to see in the new year, dubbed variously as Crossover, Leap Over, Jump Over all the way to Fly Over and beyond. Interestingly, I am yet to come across Crawl Over, perhaps because everyone is in a hurry to enter the new year and tap into Gods blessings. Over the past few weeks, public posters and media advertisements have been screaming for public attention, seeking a sizeable share of the lucrative new year market of fervent worship, promising a wonderful night of casting off the trials and tribulations of 2024 and welcoming in 2025 with praise, hope and expectation under the direction of Bishop this, Prophet that or Archbishop Dr so-and-so. Thanks to dark threats by IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare and his crew, prophecies over who will die in the following year are in short supply these days. Advertisement Of course, anxious and hopeful worshipers will, in the process, plant their seed in the house of God with, among others, 2 Corinthians 9:6 in mind (whosoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully). I gather that some well-heeled Christians sow their seed in US dollars, which must bring unbridled joy to their pastors. Indeed, 31st Night is a busy cocoa season in the house of God, both spiritually and financially. God in western society Midnight church services are not on the new year menu in western countries and my first few Christmases in the UK in the early 1990s when I relocated there was quite an eye-opening culture shock. Out there, the Christmas season has nothing to do with Christ, Christianity or spirituality, and everything to do with families getting together and people partying and making merry. Basically they have decided to ignore the biblical order in Mark 12:17 to render unto Caesar the things that are Caesars and unto God the things that are Gods, and rather render everything to Caesar (if earthly pleasures qualify to be thus classed), thus freezing God out of the picture. In many major western cities, the highlight of 31st Night is gigantic, colourful, splendid fireworks to usher in the new year, with thousands gathering for the spectacle, and on the few occasions I went out to see the London fireworks with friends many years ago, it was a splendid affair. Traditionally, as the first major city to cross over into the new year, Sydney usually sets off the pace. Indeed, religion is increasingly becoming a distant, foggy notion in western countries. According to abcnews.com, today, just 45 per cent of Americans say they belong to a church, synagogue, mosque or temple, compared to nearly 80 per cent in the late 1940s. According to the poll, only 32 per cent of Americans say they worship God in a house of prayer once a week. I suspect that the majority of this 32 per cent are African Americans, whose communities still hold on dearly to Christianity. Africans and Caribbeans who have migrated to western countries also tend export their Christian streak there. I would not be surprised if in a stunning role reversal, black Africans are seen in the near future stomping the streets of Europe to preach to the heathen natives to convert them to Christianity. The flock of old are perhaps set to be the shepherds of tomorrow. Between God and Caesar What I find most remarkable about the Ghanaian version of 31st Night is that notwithstanding the churches and other open spaces full to capacity and bursting at the seams as midnight beckons, we tend to give full expression to the biblical command cited earlier in reference to God and Caesar. For many, it is inconceivable that midnight on 31st December would find them anywhere else than in church, thanking God for the year and seeking His face ahead of the new year, even if they have played truant all year round and struggle to follow the service ritual or the hymns. As for 31st night, I have to be in church at midnight, they would intone gravely. Annoyingly, these truants tend to occupy prime space in the crowded churches that night, leaving the regulars standing. But God is merciful. Soon after the service ends, the bars and the clubs begin to fill up, not with migrants from outer space, but in a direct osmosis process from church. Once their conscience is salved by giving unto God what is due Him (praise, thanksgiving and worship), they ardently believe it is the turn of Caesar, straddling several hedonistic activities in the process. Annoyingly, these truants tend to occupy prime space in the crowded churches that night, leaving the regulars standing. But God is merciful. New year wishes For most of us, it has been a mixed bag of small triumphs and various setbacks this year. On a personal basis, perhaps the two top highlights of my year were a trip to beautiful Cape Town, South Africa and the selection of my former boss Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the NPPs running mate for the election. The bitter election defeat recently and a health scare a few months ago marked the lowest points of my year. As for my pocket, it has taken all-year-round multiple hits, so nothing new there. Dear reader, to the extent that you are reading this piece, you are alive. That is what matters most, regardless of whatever challenges life may have thrown at you in the last 12 months. As the year fades out tonight, whether you will render exclusively to God, exclusively to Caesar or do a hybrid as many Ghanaians deftly do, may your new year be full of bountiful blessings and bring peace to you and your families. Afehyia pa!! The writer is Head, Communications & Public Affairs Unit, Ministry of Energy. E-mail: rodboat@yahoo.com Featured Six facts to help avoid a hangover bbc.com Life Dec - 31 - 2024 , 20:43 10 minutes read From red wine headaches to mixing drinks, here's what to know about hangovers ahead of New Year's Day. Bouts of amnesia, throbbing headaches, extreme lethargy and nausea that's cruelly combined with overwhelming hunger when you list them out, the symptoms could describe a terrible new medical condition. But of course, this is just a classic hangover. After a night of consuming humanity's favourite toxin, as dawn breaks across the globe on New Year's Day, millions of people will awake with a groan and a feeling of nagging curiosity about exactly what they got up to the night before. To help others through this annual alcohol-induced reckoning, we have nobly curated some key findings about hangovers, from the folk wisdom that's genuinely backed by scientific evidence to the surprising power of expectation. Red wine headaches are real Red wine has a bad reputation when it comes to one particularly annoying symptom some people experience after drinking: headaches. Even the Romans were compelled to queasily list the bad effects of a red wine headache more than 2,000 years ago. Advertisement The active, ouch-inducing ingredient has long thought to be compounds such as sulphites but white wine contains just as many of them, and there's some evidence that it doesn't cause headaches to the same degree. The culprit may in fact be a compound called quercetin, found in abundance in the skin of red grapes, according to recent research by scientists at the University of California, Davis. It's thought that quercetin disrupts the normal processing of alcohol in certain people. The ethanol in alcohol is normally converted to acetaldehyde in the body, which the enzyme ALDH coverts to acetate. Its not always the type of alcohol to blame, sometimes it's down to individual differences in the way our bodies metabolise alcohol. Some people have enzymes that don't process this as efficiently, and the levels of noxious acetaldehyde build up, causing those famous red wine headaches. but red wine might have some upsides The belief that the occasional tipple of red wine could be good for us goes back to the 1970s, when research showed that French people were less likely to have heart disease than other populations, despite their high intake of saturated fat. Known as "the French paradox", it's still puzzling researchers today. Afterwards, researchers believed it was actually less healthy to abstain completely from alcohol than it was to drink moderately. But now it's thought that data may be flawed biased by the fact that some people may abstain from alcohol because of other health issues. Further research has tried to find out if alcohol really is a silver bullet against heart disease. A study in China showed that the more people drink, the more likely they are to suffer from high blood pressure and risk having a stroke. But there is a silver lining too: while the risk of strokes goes up, heart attacks apparently don't. Something in alcohol may make protect us from them. Worth, perhaps, mulling over, if not over a mulled wine. Expectation can get you drunk with less How people react to alcohol can be unexpected. Some people tend to become wild, an unfortunate minority become sad, and others are chatty some are even inclined to turn a little obnoxious. As the author David Robson explains in his book The Expectation Effect, the effects of alcohol are not purely chemical in fact, powerful social expectations can shape the way we respond when we drink. In one famous experiment, researchers gave volunteers drinks that they said had a lot, a little or no alcohol, then introduced them to a "participant" planted to be deliberately rude and asked them to season a dish with hot sauce and salt for them to eat. Those who believed they had drunk the most alcohol served dishes spiked with significantly more hot sauce. However, expectations could also be harnessed for good such as to reduce the severity of drinking, and consequently (hopefully) the hangover. In another study, people who were told they had drunk vodka mixed with the energy drink Red Bull felt more drunk than those who were informed they had been given a "vodka cocktail", or "exotic fruits cocktail". Those with the belief that mixing alcohol with energy drinks can get you more drunk experienced the biggest increase in drunkenness. It could be one way to have some intoxicating fun while keeping the actual amount you drink to a minimum. Acetaldehyde: a chemical that might make us feel terrible In 2023, 173 million adults aged 18 and older in the US alone consumed the precursor to a potent carcinogen: alcohol. When alcohol is metabolised by the liver, the first step is to turn it into acetaldehyde a chemical capable of causing permanent damage to the body's DNA. This carcinogen is thought to be one of the primary causes of alcohol-related cancer but there's also evidence that it might be at least partly to blame for some of the symptoms of a hangover. The myths of mixing drinks According to popular wisdom, not all alcoholic drinks are created equal at least in terms of the severity of the hangover they cause. And there are certainly some differences in the substances that alcohol beverages contain which can influence a hangover. Chief among them is alcohol itself, which has a diuretic effect that can leave you dehydrated if you don't drink enough water alongside your booze. We also know that heavy drinking can result in poor quality sleep and leaves us less likely to get the rapid eye movement (REM) shut-eye we need to feel fresh in the morning. And the higher the alcohol content of a drink, the easier it is to drink more of it in a short space of time, especially if you are having cocktails that mask the taste with flavoursome mixers. Our bodies usually can usually break ethanol down into acetaldehyde quite quickly, before it is further converted into acetic acid. People who have a genetic variation that means they can't break it down, and so have elevated levels in their blood after drinking, tend to suffer more severe hangovers. There are other substances lurking in your favourite tipple that can also contribute to how rough you feel the next morning. And they help to explain why certain beverages can leave some of us feeling worse than others. Chief among these are chemicals the beverage industry calls congeners, which are produced during the fermentation process. These include substances such as acetone, fusel oil and tannins, which give darker drinks such as whiskey and red wine their colour and astringent taste. Bourbon whiskey, for example, contains 37 times more congeners than vodka. Studies have shown that people who have a big night on bourbon tend to feel a more severe hangover the next day than those who drink vodka. However, it is worth noting that the effects of congeners on a hangover are outweighed by those of the volume of alcohol itself. One randomised controlled trial has even examined two popular drinkers' adages "beer before wine and you'll feel fine; wine before beer and you'll feel queer", and "grape or grain but never the twain". It found that mixing the two in any order didn't seem to affect the intensity of a hangover. Again, it was the level of intoxication that was the most reliable predictor of hangover severity. And if you are mixing drinks, it is perhaps more likely you are already drinking more. So while moderating the total amount of alcohol you drink will be most effective at avoiding that hangover, it might be best to lay off the dark stuff if you are having a few. Don't rely too much on hangover cures There are no shortage of alleged quick fixes to get rid of a hangover. In ancient Egypt, for example, people were advised to wear a necklace made from the leaves of a shrub called Alexandrian chamaedaphne, while the ancient Romans suggested eating fried canary. Others swear by a plate of greasy food after a night out or a hideous concoction known as a Prairie Oyster a mixture of raw eggs, tomato juice and hot sauce. But in truth, hangovers are generally not caused by a nutritional deficiency. One review of randomised controlled trials examined eight different purported hangover cures, including extracts from borage, artichoke treatments, yeast extract, prickly pear and fruit juices, along with several drugs. None showed any ability to alter the course of a hangover. Tests on other cures have also had mixed results, with some helping with a few of the symptoms, such as tiredness and nausea, but none were able to address all of the symptoms relating to a hangover. Korean pear juice, for example, seemed to work in people who have a genotype that already leaves them less prone to severe hangovers. It is often suggested that eggs can help with a hangover due to being rich in an amino acid called cysteine, which can bind to acetaldehyde and neutralise some of its effects. But as the role of acetaldehyde itself in hangovers is questionable, the benefits might not be that great. Indeed, one study that gave participants a cysteine supplement found there was little improvement in their hangover scores (although it did find women benefitted more than men, intriguingly). In many cases, however, the quality of the research in this area itself is poor, meaning drawing firm conclusions is difficult. Relying upon people's self-reported experience of a hangover can be confounded by other factors, and asking them to draw comparisons with previous hangovers is prone to bias. It's perhaps best not to place too much hope in some quick fixes the day after. Conversations with friends can influence how much we drink Our decision to drink more during social occasions is often driven by the behaviour of our friends and family. Our brain is constantly picking up on cues from other people to inform the way we act. "Anything our friends do influences us in ways that we are conscious of or not. Their presence can decide whether we act on that health information or ignore it," says Christin Scholz, assistant professor in persuasive communication at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In a 2019 study, Scholz asked students in the US whether they had spoken to anyone about their recent experiences involving alcohol, and whether those conversations were positive or negative. They drank more alcohol the next day if they had a positive conversation, while sharing negative drinking experiences with their peers led them to drink less alcohol in future. "Say I have a conversation with a friend the day before about some of the negative sides of alcohol but the next day I am in a bar with other people I would still argue that conversation has some form of influence on me," says Scholz. So, the best way to avoid a hangover? Well, it's drinking less alcohol. But there are some tricks to make this easier, such as discussing the adverse effects of drinking with friends beforehand, and playing on your expectations to experience some of the pleasant social effects you're after with less or perhaps even no booze. If you do have a heavy night planned, steering clear or whiskey or red wine can also help. Featured Ahead of 31st Watch Night: Police warns against fear-inducing prophecies and misinformation GraphicOnline Dec - 31 - 2024 , 16:29 2 minutes read The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to the public, particularly faith-based organisations and individuals, to refrain from disseminating misinformation and fear-inducing prophecies as the nation prepares to usher in the new year. In a press release signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, the Police cautioned against the publication of "misinformation and disinformation, including prophecies likely to cause fear and panic or endanger lives." This advisory forms part of the Service's broader measures to maintain peace, security, and law and order during the 31st December crossover events and beyond. Many faith-based organisations across the country will gather tonight to welcome the new year. In the past, some leaders of these organisations have used the occasion to make predictions about the coming year. Advertisement However, some of these predictions, particularly those concerning the deaths of prominent individuals, have drawn criticism from the authorities. The Police statement highlighted the negative consequences of false information and panic-driven prophecies, which have the potential to disrupt public order, create unnecessary fear, and even pose threats to lives. The warning aims to ensure that faith-based events and other social gatherings proceed peacefully without undue alarm. While commending Ghanaians for their cooperation and support throughout the year, the Ghana Police Service reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public safety. Measures include intensified residential and highway patrols, traffic management at major intersections, and security at faith-based and social events nationwide. The Police also assured the public that vital infrastructure across the country would be protected to prevent disruptions or security breaches. As Ghana prepares to step into 2025, the Police encouraged everyone to contribute to maintaining peace and order, fostering a safe and harmonious environment for all. Featured Catholic Church questions IGP's 'lakadaisical' posture in bringing to book persons who attacked priests at Nkwanta in post election violence Emmanuel Modey Dec - 31 - 2024 , 14:48 3 minutes read The Catholic Church has berated the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for what the church says was a "lackadaisical" in bringing the perpetrators of the "unjustified" brutal attack on three Catholic priests at Nkwanta in the Oti Region on December 11, 2024. The three Catholic priests, who are all expatriates were performing missionary duties when they were confronted by some indigenes, who accused them of stealing equipment meant for the state, and instantly gave them some beatings resulting in injuries to them The three priests, all Indian nationals are based at Kpassa in the Nkwanta-North District and have been there since 2005, They are Father Robinson Melkis, Father Henry Jacob and Father Martin George all belonging to Franciscan Capuchin Friars. Advertisement The brutal attack has led to Fr Henry Jacob developing a broken left eardrum and has since been flown to India for treatment. The IGP, Dr George Akuffo Dampare has already personally responded to the issue for the priests to be taken care of at the Police Hospital in Accra and the Korle bu Teaching Hospital also in Accra. But in an eight point statement issued on Monday, December 30, 2024 by by the Catholic Bishop of Jasikan Diocese, Most Reverend Gabriel Akwasi Mante, the church accused the police of adopting a "lackadaisical" posture in bringing the perpetrators who are all known people in the area to book. The church said it was wondering whether the IGP was shirking his duty due to the fact that the three Catholic priests are Indians and not Ghanaians. Most Reverend Gabriel Akwasi Mante explained that the priests were fueling a bulldozer they had hired from the Nkwanta-South Municipal Assembly at the cost of GH9,700 to level up the project site for the construction of a Formation House at Chaiso. While fueling the bulldozer, they were pounced upon by a mob and brutally assaulted without any provocation. Up till now the Catholic Church was lamenting that there has been no arrest and the culprits are walking about freely. We stand to be corrected if the Ghana Police Service headed by Dr Akuffo Dampare was aware of the disgrace and far-reaching sour relationships that could develop between the Governments of Ghana and India if the culprits are not arrested and brought to justice he asked. To the Church, the IGP who has been able to unravel more complicated crime cases than this was unjustifiably delaying the process. Is it that the IGP who swiftly responded to the unacceptable crime by offering initial healthcare to the priests has suddenly forgotten this gross injustice meted out to the priest, he asked. He called on the government to put effective mechanisms in place to check and bring an end to violence and needless attacks on citizens and legal residents after elections. The canker seems to be unfortunately becoming a disgraceful unwritten law in the country, he said. Previous article: I thank God for what He has done for me and the nation - Dr Bawumia to congregation Featured FULL TEXT: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addos final New Year message GraphicOnline Dec - 31 - 2024 , 20:19 4 minutes read Fellow Ghanaians, As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I come to you with a heart filled with gratitude and optimism. Tonight, families across the nation are united in celebration, looking forward with hope and faith to the promise of 2025. It is a moment to give thanks to Almighty God for the journey we have traveled together and to renew our collective commitment to the brighter future we all seek for Ghana. This New Year's message is deeply personal to me, as it is my last as your President. Serving you has been the greatest honour of my life. I stand before you not just as a leader, but as a fellow Ghanaian. Advertisement I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me and inspired by the resilience and fortitude I have seen in each of you. Together, we have walked a journey of transformation, and it is a journey I will always cherish. In the years I have been privileged to lead, we have worked tirelessly to lay a foundation for a Ghana that is strong, united, and free. The Free Senior High School Policy has given hope to millions of young Ghanaians and their families. We have seen our healthcare systems strengthened, our roads expanded, our industries fortified, our agriculture revitalized, and our digital landscape transformed. Additionally, our economy is rebounding impressively, as demonstrated by the remarkable 7.2% growth achieved in the third quarter of 2024, with the year's growth rate projected at 6.8%. These achievements are not just numbers or statistics; they are stories of lives changed and futures made brighter. But I also acknowledge the challenges we have faced. The road has not always been smooth, and there have been times of difficulty and sacrifice. Yet through it all, the indomitable Ghanaian spirit has prevailed. The post-COVID-19 years have tested us to our limit, but they've also reminded us of who we area people who rise together, no matter the odds. As we step into 2025, I encourage us all to hold on to the hope that has carried us this far. This is a time for new dreams and renewed commitment. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie before us, driven by the belief that our best days are still ahead. Ghana's story is not about our leaders; it's about our people. Each of us has a role to play in building the nation we envision. To the youth of Ghana, you are the heartbeat of our future. Your energy, creativity, and dreams are what will drive this nation forward. Do not let fear hold you back. Dream big. Work hard. And know that the future is yours to shape. To our farmers, teachers, health workers, traders, businesspersons, and public officers who keep our nation moving, I say thank you. You are the backbone of our society, and your contributions make Ghana what she is. Let us continue to support one another and build a country that works for everyone. Some three weeks ago, our nation once again stood tall in Africa and the world with the peaceful election of a new president and new members of parliament, reaffirming our status as a beacon of democracy and manifesting the enduring will of our people. I have congratulated them and wished them well and God's blessings in the discharge of the mandate of their high offices. Nonetheless, let us vow never to revisit the history of the unprovoked post-electoral violence that nearly marred this election. The pursuit of power should never be synonymous with violence. It must always reflect a solemn commitment to serve the people. As it is often said, true power lies not in the capacity to dominate, but in the ability to uplift and unite. Let this be our guiding principle as we move forward, ensuring that peace and democracy remain the bedrock of our nation. As I prepare to pass on the baton of leadership, I do so hopeful in what lies ahead. Ghana is destined for greatness, and I believe in the strength of her people to achieve it. The foundation we have built together over the last eight years is one that will continue to grow, and I look forward to watching our beloved nation reach new heights. So, may 2025 bring our families joy, peace, and abundant blessings. May our homes be filled with laughter, our communities with unity, and our nation with prosperity. Let us step into the new year with hope in our hearts and determination in our steps. Let us be bold in our steps, knowing that together there is nothing we cannot achieve. Happy New Year, my fellow Ghanaians. May God bless us all and our homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong. Next article: Court to rule on NDC's objection to mandamus application on Jan 1 Previous article: Catholic Church questions IGP's 'lakadaisical' posture in bringing to book persons who attacked priests at Nkwanta in post election violence Featured Limit appointment of ministers, deputies at maximum of 55 - Constitutional Review Consultative Committee report Enoch Darfah Frimpong Dec - 31 - 2024 , 12:30 26 minutes read The Constitutional Review Consultative Committee (CRCC), which was tasked to review the 2011 report of the Constitution Review Committee has recommended that there should be an upper limit of ministers and deputy ministers a president of Ghana can appoint. And this upper limit should be capped at 55. This means, any person from parliament appointed as a minister of state, should relinquish the parliamentary position. This was contained in the report of the CRCC, which has been submitted to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Advertisement In the Executive Summary of the report made available to Graphic Online, the committee recommended that the President must have the option of appointing persons including members of parliament as ministers, provided that a Member of Parliament who is appointed as a minister shall vacate their seat. This is to address the challenge of the situation where some persons may contest for parliamentary positions not because they are interested in the work of parliament, but rather because being a member of parliament is also a means to earn an appointment as a minister of state. The Committees work on its recommendations, according to the report were largely by consensus, and, in contested situations, by the vote of simple majority. Members who lost the vote, according to the report submitted to the president, exhibited good team spirit by fully supporting the continued work of the Committee to achieve the mandate thrust on it. Throughout its consultations and review, the Committee adopted for itself three guiding principles as follows: Does it belong in the Constitution, or does it belong in an Act, Regulation, political party constitution, etc.? Does the current provision achieve the effect, or the current provision necessarily needs to be amended? Is the recommended amendment consistent with the clear values of the Constitution, the history of our Republic, democratic values and cultural heritage? Read also: See the cut-off grades for the University of Ghana 2024/2025 undergraduate admissions As part of its recommendations, the committee also recommended that the size of parliament should be capped to 277 elected members of Parliament. According to the consultative committee, article 93 of the 1992 Constitution should therefore be amended to read as follows: There shall be a Parliament of Ghana which shall consist of not more than two hundred and seventy-seven elected members. The implication of this is that there must be consequential amendments to Article 47 to place a numerical cap on the number of constituencies that Ghana must have. It added that article 47 must also be amended to read as follows - Ghana shall be divided into as many constituencies for the purpose of election of Members of Parliament as the Electoral Commission may prescribe; however, the number of constituencies shall not exceed two hundred and seventy-seven." The consultative committee in the Executive Summary of their report submitted to President Akufo-Addo explained that the reasons for the choice of 277 elected members as the maximum number was that: recommending a lesser number than the existing number will require that certain constituencies be scrapped. The decision on which constituencies to scrap would involve politicians and their followers, and it is not reasonably expected that a political party would approve that constituencies in its stronghold be scrapped. On the other hand, it can be reasonably expected that each political party is more likely to lean towards recommending constituencies in its opponents stronghold to be scrapped. This would invariably result in needless acrimony." Again, it said "Not recommending a reduction would therefore be the less acrimonious option; the existing constituencies are already two hundred and seventy-six. As an odd number is to be preferable, we recommend an upper limit of two hundred and seventy-seven. The CRCC was to review the 2011 report of the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), review submissions, proposals, and reports on various constitutional review platforms such as Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), University of Ghana School of Law, University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA), Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) among others. Attached below is a copy of the Executive Summary of the report EXECUTIVE SUMMARY On April 28, 2023, the member of Parliament for the Suame constituency and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, under the auspices of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) inaugurated the Constitution Review Consultative Committee, (the CRCC) to: A. Review the 2011 report of the Constitution Review Committee (CRC); B. Review submissions, proposals, and reports on various constitutional review platforms such as Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), University of Ghana School of Law, University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA), Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) etc.; C. Make recommendations to the MoPA and its partners and collaborators such as the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), Africa Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET), IEA, Centre for Democratic Development (CDD), Institute of Democratic and Economic Governance (IDEG), National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), among others; and D. Submit a report to the Honourable Minister on the Committees preliminary suggestions or firm resolve for a review of the 1992 Constitution. The CRCC is made up of institutional representation through a process where the various institutions freely and independently nominate persons unto the Committee. These institutions are: (1) the Ministry of Justice and Attorney-General's Department (MoJAGD), (2) the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), (3) the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), (4) the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), (5) the Audit Service, (6) the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), (7) the Judicial Service, (8) the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), (9) the National Media Commission (NMC), (10) the Parliamentary Service, (11) the University of Ghana School of Law, (UGSoL), and (12) African Center for Economic Transformation, (ACET). Coincidentally, the members sent to the Committee from the various institutions include: (i) members who were on the Consultative Assembly that drafted the 1992 Constitution, and so have an insight into the reasons that produced the 1992 Constitution; (ii) members who were part of the CRC that produced the CRC Report of 2011; and (iii) a cross section of the Ghanaian society including civil society. The Committee at its maiden meeting unanimously elected Clara Kowlaga Beeri Kasser-Tee, Esq. as its chairperson. She represents the University of Ghana School of Law on the Committee. In producing this report, the Committee used a participatory qualitative methodology through consultations, desk review, comparative analysis, historical analysis and stakeholder validations. The Committee has also avoided duplication of efforts, and therefore relied on existing data and reports of similar nature where applicable. Among other things, the Committee has reviewed thoroughly the CRC Report of 2011 which used a methodology that directly and indirectly reached millions of Ghanaians (individuals, groups, institutions), including Ghanaians living abroad. The total number of formal submissions received, processed, coded, and stored in a database by the CRC is captured as 83,161. The views of the millions of Ghanaians who participated in the consultative processes of the CRC, directly or through traditional and new media, without formally making submissions are also thus represented in this Report. Furthermore, the Committee reviewed over 50 Stakeholder submissions that it received from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, including emails from citizens. Copies of the stakeholder submissions received are included in this report as Appendix 4. Finally, the Committee participated in stakeholder validation workshops where it presented its findings and recommendations for feedback. In carrying out its mandate, the Committee undertook a clause-by-clause consideration of the 1992 Constitution in its entirety vis-a-vis the CRC report of 2011 and the other stakeholder submissions received since the CRC report. In its recommendations, the Committee was guided by the underpinning values of the 1992 Constitution, such as liberty, equality of opportunity, prosperity, inclusion, respect for diversity, freedom and justice, accountability, rule of law, protection and preservation of human rights, unity of our nation, stability of our nation, sovereignty of the people of Ghana, respect for our cultural heritage, friendship and peace with all peoples of the world, and other democratic values. All of these were against the backdrop that constitutions are broad frameworks rather than manuals, so unnecessary detail is not suited for inclusion in a national constitution. The Committee needed to agree on this principle from the onset because some of the submissions that were received included descriptive details that are not suitable for inclusion in a national constitution. While clarity is a value that the Committee pursued, this was done devoid of unnecessary descriptive details that should belong in other forms of legislation or regulations rather than in a national constitution. So, the Committee gleaned the broad principles from these submissions and reduced them to a framework suitable for a national constitution. The Committees work on its recommendations were largely by consensus, and, in contested situations, by the vote of simple majority. Members who lost the vote exhibited good team spirit by fully supporting the continued work of the Committee to achieve the mandate thrust on it. Throughout its consultations and review, the Committee adopted for itself three guiding principles as follows: 1. Does it belong in the Constitution, or does it belong in an Act, Regulation, political party constitution, etc.? 2. Does the current provision achieve the effect, or the current provision necessarily needs to be amended? 3. Is the recommended amendment consistent with the clear values of the Constitution, the history of our Republic, democratic values and cultural heritage? The objective of the Committee is for its recommendations to reflect who we are as a people, where we are 12 years on since the CRC report, where we want to be in our democratic journey, and recommend a constitutional framework that puts us in a position to pursue what the Committee sees as the Ghanaian aspiration for democracy, i.e., to establish for ourselves and posterity a framework of government which shall secure the blessings of liberty, equality of opportunity and prosperity. Summary of Recommendations The recommendations in this report cover the proposed process for the amendment of the Constitution as well as thematic areas. Notable ones are as follows: General Amendment Procedure of the Constitution The Constitution provides within itself, its own procedures for changing any of its provisions if, for any reason, that provision no longer serves the people well. The lawful means of changing any or all the provisions of the Constitution is by amendment. The Constitution provides two ways by which it can be amended: 1. Through an Act of Parliament, (for non-entrenched provisions); or 2. Referendum, (for entrenched provisions). The Attachment to the CRC Report of 2011 contained two Draft Bills for the amendment of the Constitution. One of the draft Bills was for the amendment of non-entrenched provisions; and the other was for the proposed amendment of the entrenched provisions. The draft bills with respect to the amendment of the non-entrenched provisions specified all the proposed amendments falling within non-entrenched articles, and that for the entrenched provisions did the same. The amendment for entrenched provisions was therefore to be done in a single Bill, although this Bill indicated the specific provisions requiring amendment. These draft bills are included in this Report in Appendix 5. The Committee recommends the following amendment procedures; 1. With respect to entrenched provisions, (as these require a referendum), proposed amendments must be done in separate individual Bills in accordance with subject matter and consequential amendments, rather than in a single bill specifying all entrenched provisions proposed for amendment. Each proposed bill for amendment, (containing not more than one subject matter at a time), must be voted on separately. However, more than one proposed amendment may be presented to the Referendum provided that it permits the people to vote for each of them separately. 2. With respect to non-entrenched provisions, we agree with the CRC proposal, i.e. that it may be presented in a single Bill. It is our considered view that the above procedure gives the people of Ghana, the opportunity to reflect on the effect of each amendment and decide whether or not they want that particular amendment. Putting the amendments together in a single bill denies the people the right to decide which specific bills they want, and which specific bills they do not. We are of the view that this is more consistent with democratic values than putting all amendments in a single bill, as it is entirely possible that some may want specific amendments, but not others. While putting the amendments together in a single bill therefore denies the people a true choice in the matter, offering the people a chance to decide on each bill independently validates the peoples agency in the referendum. We propose a similar approach for proposed amendments of non-entrenched provisions, (which do not require a referendum), (i.e., that amendments be pursuant to separate bills grouped in accordance with subject matter and consequential amendments). However, as Parliament has deliberative powers over bills, an alternative approach for the amendment of non-entrenched provisions, would be to align with the original proposal of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) and consolidate all changes into a single comprehensive option. Specific Recommended Amendments: a. Determination of the Conditions of Service of Some Public Officers by the President, (i.e., Article 71 Holders) The Committee recommends that the emoluments of article 71 holders must be determined pursuant to a predetermined formula. This predetermined formula is to be set by an Independent Emoluments Committee, (IEC), composed of one representative each from the following institutions: the Public Services Commission, Ministry responsible for Finance, Organised Labour, Audit Service, and Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. The mandate of this IEC shall be to prescribe an emolument formula for the emoluments of article 71 holders. The emoluments of article 71 holders shall thereafter be determined pursuant to this formula, without the need to set up any further committees in the future. The institutions shall nominate their representatives, and the President shall appoint them. The emoluments of this IEC shall be similar to sitting allowances applicable to public Boards and Committees, and the IEC is to be dissolved after setting the pre-determined formula. The formula shall thereafter be managed by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. This avoids the continuous setting up of committees to determine the emoluments of article 71 holders. b. Parliament The Committee recommends that the size of parliament be capped to two hundred and seventy-seven elected members. Article 93 of the Constitution should therefore be amended to read as follows: There shall be a Parliament of Ghana which shall consist of not more than two hundred and seventy-seven elected members. The implication of this is that there must be consequential amendments to Article 47 to place a numerical cap on the number of constituencies that Ghana must have. Article 47 must therefore be amended to read as follows - Ghana shall be divided into as many constituencies for the purpose of election of Members of Parliament as the Electoral Commission may prescribe; however, the number of constituencies shall not exceed two hundred and seventy-seven. The reasons for the choice of two hundred and seventy-seven elected members as the maximum number are two: (a) recommending a lesser number than the existing number will require that certain constituencies be scrapped. The decision on which constituencies to scrap would involve politicians and their followers, and it is not reasonably expected that a political party would approve that constituencies in its stronghold be scrapped. On the other hand, it can be reasonably expected that each political party is more likely to lean towards recommending constituencies in its opponents stronghold to be scrapped. This would invariably result in needless acrimony. Not recommending a reduction would therefore be the less acrimonious option; (b) the existing constituencies are already two hundred and seventy-six. As an odd number is to be preferable, we recommend an upper limit of two hundred and seventy-seven. c. Appointment of Ministers from Parliament The Committee recommends that the President must have the option of appointing persons including members of parliament as ministers, provided that a Member of Parliament who is appointed as a minister shall vacate their seat. This is to address the challenge of the situation where some persons may contest for parliamentary positions not because they are interested in the work of parliament, but rather because being a member of parliament is also a means to earn an appointment as a minister of state. d. Cap on Appointment of Ministers and Deputy Ministers The Committee recommends that there must be an upper limit on the number of Ministers and Deputy Ministers that a President can appoint, and this upper limit should be 55. e. Declaration of Assets The Committee recommends the inclusion of a requirement for the Auditor-General to verify the assets declared and a certificate of verification to be issued to the person. The Auditor General shall audit the declaration to satisfy themself whether the assets are legitimately acquired or reasonably attributable to one's income. Thus, any property or assets acquired by a public officer after the initial declaration required by Article 286 clause (1) and which is not reasonably attributable to income, gift, loan, inheritance or any other reasonable source shall be deemed to have been acquired in contravention of this Constitution. The relevant provision on Declaration of Assets thus should read as follows: 1. A person who holds a public office mentioned in clause (5) of this Article shall submit to the Auditor-General a written declaration of all property or assets owned by, or liabilities owed by that person, whether directly or indirectly- a. within three months after the coming into force of this Constitution or before taking office, as the case may be, b. at the end of every four years; and c. at the end of their term of office. 2. Failure to declare or knowingly making false declaration shall be in contravention of this Constitution and shall be dealt with in accordance with Article 287 of this Constitution. 3. Any property or assets acquired by a public officer after the initial declaration required by clause (1) of this Article and which is not reasonably attributable to income, gift, loan, inheritance or any other reasonable source shall be deemed to have been acquired in contravention of this Constitution. 4. The public offices to which the provisions of this Article apply are those of (a) the President of the Republic; (b) the Vice-President of the Republic; (c) the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker and a member of Parliament; (d) Minister of State or Deputy Minister; (e) Chief Justice, Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature, (f) the Commissioner for Human Rights and Administrative Justice and his Deputies and all judicial officers; (g) Ambassador or High Commissioner; (h) Secretary to the Cabinet; (i) Head of Ministry or government department or equivalent office in the Civil Service; (j) The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund; (k) Chairperson and Members of Council of State; (l) Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives; (m) Chairperson and Deputy of the Electoral Commission; (n) The Administrator of GETFUND; (o) chairman, managing director, general manager and departmental head of a public corporation or company in which the State has a controlling interest; and (p) such officers in the public service and any other public institution as Parliament may prescribe. 5. The Auditor-General shall verify the assets declared and a certificate of verification shall be issued to the person. f. Payment of Tax by the President Article 68 (5) exempts the President from the payment of income tax. The Committee recommends that the President should pay tax on his salary and emoluments as an example to the rest of the citizenry. This will also reflect the principle of equality before the law and accord with the rule of law. Article 68 (5) therefore should be deleted to mandate the President of the country to pay tax. The amendment of this provision will trigger the necessary consequential amendment in the income tax law of the country. g. The National Development Planning Commission, (the NDPC) All the submissions received on the NDPC expressed the need for the NDPC to be independent de facto and de jure; inclusive in composition; able to develop or formulate and periodically revise the national development plan; be national in character, etc. Furthermore, the desire to have a national long-term development plan was evident in the submissions received. Among the reasons for this was a guard against interruptions in the developmental progress of the country due to changes in political leadership and abandonment of some of the developmental projects because of these changes. To achieve the above objectives, this Committee recommends an amendment to the composition of the NDPC to include: 1. the Minister responsible for Finance; 2. a former Minister responsible for Finance who must not belong to the same political party as the sitting Minister responsible for Finance; 3. Three representatives from university teachers associations in Ghana, who must have demonstrable expertise in economic, environmental, spatial planning or other relevant sectors; 4. A representative from a political party that attains at least 10% votes in general elections, to be nominated by the political party; 5. the Governor, Central Bank; 6. the Governments Statistician; 7. a representative of the Association of Bankers, to be nominated by the Association; 8. a representative from the Association of Ghana industries, to be nominated by the Association; 9. a representative from organised labour to be nominated by the organised labour; 10. a representative from Ghana Employers Association to be nominated by the Association; 11. a representative from traders associations to be nominated by the associations; 12. a representative from Ghana Farmers and Fishermen Association to be nominated by the Association; 13. a representative with competencies in development, economic, social, environment, spatial planning, technological or other relevant sectors each from the Coastal, Middle Belt and Savannah Economic Zones, to be nominated by the relevant regional coordinating councils in the respective Economic Zones; 14. the Director General of NDPC; 15. two representatives from National House of Chiefs, one of whom must be a woman; 16. A representative from the Federation of Persons living with Disability to be nominated by the Federation; 17. A representative from civil society organisations to be nominated by civil society; 18. A representative from private sector enterprises to nominated by private enterprises federation; and 19. such other persons, not exceeding three, at least one of whom must be a woman, to be appointed by the President having regard to their knowledge and experience of the relevant areas and roles pertaining to development, economic, social, environmental, spatial planning or other relevant sectors. The tenure of the members of the NDPC shall be 7 years non-renewable and shall not be coterminous with that of the President. The Committee recommends the following to be included to the existing functions of the NDPC: The Commission shall: i. Formulate a long-term National Development Plan taking into consideration the resource potential and comparative advantage of the various regions and districts of Ghana for approval by Parliament. ii. Revise the National Development Plan every ten years or such earlier period as may be approved by Parliament by two-thirds majority of all members of parliament. iii. monitor, evaluate and co-ordinate development policies, programmes and projects and submit an annual report to Parliament. iv. The other provisions on functions to stay. The NDPCs annual report to Parliament shall indicate to what extent the Government of the day has adhered to the national development plan, and to what extent the plan requires modification. h. The National Security Council The Committee recommends that the following be included in the existing National Security Council provision: a. the head of Ghana Immigration Service b. Minister responsible for National Security c. Economic and Organized Crime Office d. the head of Ghana National Fire Service e. the head of National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons f. the head of National Disaster Management Organization, and g. three persons appointed by the President, at least one of whom must be a woman. This Committee recommends an amendment to the composition of the National Security Council to include: 1. the President, 2. the Vice-President, 3. the Ministers responsible for foreign affairs, defence, interior, and finance, 4. the Chief of Defence Staff and two other Service commanders who do not belong to the same Service of the Armed Forces, 5. the Inspector-General of Police and two other members of the Police Service, one of whom shall be the Commissioner of Police responsible for Criminal Investigations Department; 6. the Director-General of the Prisons Service; 7. the Director of External Intelligence; 8. the Director of Internal Intelligence; 9. the Director of Military Intelligence; 10. the Commissioner General of Ghana Revenue Authority, the head of Ghana Immigration Service; 11. Minister responsible for National Security; 12. the head of Economic and Organized Crime Office; 13. the head of Ghana National Fire Service; 14. the head of National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons; 15. the head of National Disaster Management Organization; and 16. three persons appointed by the President, one of whom must be a woman. i. Decentralisation and Local Government The Committee recommends the election of the Chief Executive Officer by the registered voters of the area in a public election. A person shall be elected if the person obtains a simple majority of the valid votes cast. Consequently, the only way the office of the Chief Executive shall become vacant is as follows: a vote of no confidence, supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the members of the District Assembly is passed against them; or they resign or die. if any circumstance arise that would cause him to be disqualified or ineligible for election, under article 94 of this Constitution. Article 246 should be amended by inserting a clause 3 which provides that where a vacancy occurs in the membership of a District Assembly, the District Coordinating Director of the Assembly shall notify the Electoral Commission in writing within seven days of becoming aware of the vacancy and the Electoral Commission shall, within thirty days of being notified, hold a by-election to fill the vacancy, except that where the vacancy is as a result of the death of a member, the by- election shall be held within sixty days after the occurrence of the vacancy. Qualifications and Procedures: The Committee recommends for Article 247 to require the qualifications for Chief Executive and membership of a District Assembly, the procedures of a District Assembly and other local government units lower than a District Assembly that may be created to be provided for by an Act of Parliament, through an amendment to the Local Government Act. j. Judiciary Efficient Administration of Justice The Committee among other things recommends the amendment of Article 144(6) so that a petition for the removal of the Chief Justice shall require the President to act in consultation with the Council of State, and upon determining that a prima facie case has been made, appoint a committee consisting of two Justices of the Supreme Court, one of whom shall be appointed chairperson by the President, and three other persons who are not members of the Council of State, nor members of Parliament, nor lawyers. The rules and regulations for regulating the practice and procedure for the removal of supreme court judges, chief justice, chairpersons of the electoral commission, etc. shall be made by the Rules of Court Committee pursuant to article 154(2). k. Fundamental Human Rights o Right to Fair Trial One of the requirements of a democracy is the right to a speedy trial. The Committee therefore recommends that the trial of persons charged with criminal offences shall commence not later than 6 months. o The right to good healthcare Although the Constitution provides for the right of the sick, it does not expressly provide for the right to good healthcare. The Committee therefore recommends an amendment to include that every person has a right to good healthcare. o Article 17(2): The Committee received several submissions with respect to Article 17(2). The submissions related to a request to expand the category of discrimination in Article 17(2) to include discrimination based on disability. This arises from the historical fact that disability has been a ground to discriminate negatively against persons with disability. Persons with disability must therefore be included in the category of discrimination both as protection for persons with disabilities and awareness of the ground of disability. Article 17(2) reads as follows: A person shall not be discriminated against on grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, creed or social or economic status. Committees recommendation: The Committee recommends that persons with disability should be included in the list of those not to be discriminated against. So, the Article should now read as follows: A person shall not be discriminated against on grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, disability, political opinion, creed or social or economic status Consequently, all constitutional provisions related to the enforcement of fundamental human rights and prevention of discrimination should reflect this. These include Articles 12 (2), 17(2) and 35 (5). l. Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) Article 218(1) of the Constitution provides as follows: The functions of the Commission shall be defined and prescribed by Act of Parliament and shall include the duty- (a) to investigate complaints of violations of fundamental rights and freedoms, injustice, corruption, abuse of power and unfair treatment of any person by a public officer in the exercise of his duties. This provision has been interpreted to mean that CHRAJ cannot investigate alleged violations under this provision in the absence of an identifiable complainant. The Committee received submissions advocating that this provision be amended to permit the Commission to investigate violations under this provision whether or not there is a complainant. It was argued that due to fear of retribution, many complainants may be uncomfortable to formally file complaints of violations under this provision. It would therefore serve a beneficial social value and as a rights protection regime if CHRAJ is empowered to investigate violations falling under the above-mentioned provision in appropriate cases, on its own, (i.e., without the need for a complainant). The Committees recommendations The Committee recommends the amendment of article 218(a) to empower CHRAJ to investigate certain complaints whether or not it has a complainant. Article 218(a) should therefore be amended to read as follows: The functions of the Commission shall be defined and prescribed by Act of Parliament and shall include the duty i. to investigate all instances of violations of fundamental rights and freedoms, injustice, corruption, abuse of power and unfair treatment of any person by a public officer in the exercise of their official duties. ii. to investigate matters concerning practises and actions by public officers in respect of alleged violation of their fundamental human rights. j. Appointments of Heads of Independent Constitutional Bodies (ICBs) To address concerns raised by stakeholders on the influence of the executive in the appointment process of the heads of ICBs, a revision of the current appointment procedure is recommended. The Committee recommends that the heads of ICBs be appointed by an open competitive process which includes parliamentary vetting and approval, after which the successful candidates are appointed by the President. The Committee recommends that this appointment procedure be extended to all the heads of the ICBs including the Electoral Commission, National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) and the Government Statistician, m. Immunity from Service Process and Arrest Another article which has raised contested views was Article 117, with many suggesting that the constitutional immunity granted under this clause should be revoked. Upon careful consideration by the Committee, it is recommended that the desirable amendment will be to simply delete the word arrest" from the title of the provision. Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Featured McDan has defaulted debt payment since 2020 and only paid GH2m last week out of over US$3.9 million - Ghana Airports Company Enoch Darfah Frimpong Dec - 31 - 2024 , 09:56 3 minutes read The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has explained that even though McDan Company Limited last week paid GH2 million out of the over US$3.9 million debt the company owes, the GACL was insisting on full payment because McDan has defaulted since 2020. The GACL named McDan's total debt as being US$3,995,622.66 and GH13,523.37. It said it is out of this total debt that the company paid GH2 million last week. It added the company has been defaulting since 2020. In a statement issued Tuesday morning (Dec 31, 2024) explaining why the GACL has shut down Terminal 1 at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA), which has been allocated to McDan Aviation for the running of private jet services, the GACL said it was demanding full payment of all debts owed by McDan before it will give access to the Terminal 1. Advertisement It explained that the GACL conducts a regular debt collection exercise every month to recover debts owed the company and also round up debt collection for the year. The company went further and gave a specific explanation in the case of the debt of McDan Company Limited. It said it was demanding full payment of monies owed because prior to suggested payment plans from McDan Company Limited, which was presented as far back as 2020, the company has defaulted, It said it was not only McDan that the company was going after and that four other companies operating at Kotoka International Airport were also closed for non-payment of their debt to GACL. "We will continue to pursue all debts as we have always done throughout the years to retrieve monies owed to GACL," the statement indicated. The GACL accused McDan of refusing to make payments on lands acquired from Ghana Airports Company Limited as far back as 2015 with the intimation that the lands were under litigation and therefore requesting GACL to hold on with the collection of payments. However, "McDan Company Limited has developed same lands with commercial buildings situated on it and benefiting from rental proceeds on the built properties without paying ground rent to GACL." McDan's issue The GACL explained that in the specific case of McDan Company Limited, several letters were written to him and meetings were held to ensure the settlement of his outstanding debts as outlined in the table below: Additionally, McDan is required to pay GACL 15% share of the gross revenue as monthly revenue returns covering the period September 1, 2022 to November 30, 2024 which is also outstanding. "For the record, McDan Company Limited paid two million Ghana cedis (GH2,000,000) on December 24, 2024, out of the outstanding three million nine hundred and ninety-five, six hundred and twenty-two US dollars, sixty-six cents ($3,995,622.66) and thirteen thousand five hundred and twenty-three cedis thirty-seven pesewas (GH13,523.37) owed GACL." Attached below is a copy of the GACL's statement on the issue Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Previous article: Akufo-Addo to deliver final message on the State of the Nation on Jan 3, 2025 Featured Bagbin on why he will not swear into office any MP-elect with a lingering litigation and why others think he has no discretion to decide on who to swear into office Gertrude Ankah Politics Dec - 30 - 2024 , 18:55 4 minutes read The life of Ghana's 8th Parliament will end on January 6, 2025 to pave way for the 9th Parliament the next day. And even before the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the political party with the majority of seats in the next Parliament announces who it was going to nominate for consideration as the Speaker of the house, the incumbent Speaker, Alban S.K. Bagbin has given an indication suggesting that he could be retained as Speaker. Commenting on a pending litigation on the results and declaration of nine parliamentary election results at the weekend, Mr Bagbin said he will not swear into office any of the members-elect involved in the litigation. Speaking at an event on December 28, 2024, where the Professionals Forum of the NDC honoured him for his role in Parliament since 1993, Mr Bagbin said as Speaker, he will not swear into office, any MP-Elect engulfed in a litigation over the results of the parliamentary elections. It is not clear Mr Bagbin will continue as Speaker in the next Parliament, but his remark was delivered in a posture suggesting he will definitely be the Speaker in the next Parliament to undertake the duty of swearing into office new members of Parliament. Advertisement His comment has however been challenged by others who have suggested he was not yet the Speaker for the next Parliament to make a determination on who to swear or not to swear into office. Again as a Speaker, and in the face of the law, the Speaker has no discretion in deciding who to swear into office, and that he or she has to strictly go by the MPs-Elect so declared by the Electoral Commission and gazetted as such. So the Speaker has to go strictly by the MPs-Elect list and gazetted by the Electoral Commission. Bagbins position During the NDC Professionals Forum event, Mr Bagbin said all the MPs-elect whose declarations by the Electoral Commission based on a mandamus order by the High Court, has been quashed by the Supreme Court will not be sworn into office by him. Until sworn in, they remain MPs-elect. Some re-collation and re-declarations were null and void, unknown to the law, and therefore not qualified to be sworn in by me, Mr Bagbin stated. Im a gatekeeper. The right thing must be done for us to reset Ghana, he stated. Support for Bagbins position The Director of Legal Affairs for the NDC, Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe supporting Mr Bagbin's position described it as "constitutionally sound". The Speakers decision is rooted in law. Once a foundational court order is invalidated, any benefits derived from it are legally void, Mr Tameklo said this during a panel discussion on TV3 on Monday [Dec 30]. He explained that the Speakers position that MPs-elect from constituencies with unresolved legal disputes should not be sworn in aligned with the Supreme Courts ruling, which invalidated previous court orders related to the electoral reconciliations. "If you have products of those impugned orders, you cant enter the House. That reasoning is well-founded in law," Mr Tameklo stated. He also highlighted that the EC had acted based on invalidated court orders to reconcile results in the affected constituencies, benefiting some MPs-elect. However, with the Supreme Court nullifying those orders, Mr Tameklo argued that any benefits derived from them were legally void. "When the foundational order is no longer there, you cannot derive any benefit from it," he explained. On the process of admitting MPs-elect, he clarified that the Clerk of Parliament, not the Speaker, is responsible for admitting MPs during the formation of a new Parliament. "Admission into the House is the responsibility of the Clerk, and whatever the Clerk does must remain within the confines of the law," he noted. While acknowledging differing views, particularly from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), he reaffirmed that Speaker Bagbins stance reflects a commitment to constitutional integrity. Bagbins claim is not a unilateral opinion. It is anchored in the law, ensuring that MPs-elect with unresolved legal disputes do not prematurely benefit from positions that may later be invalidated, he said. Bagbin is not yet Speaker for next Parliament Commenting on the Speaker's comment, Kamal-Deen Abdulai, a Deputy Director of Communications for the NPP, described Mr Bagbins stance as reckless and unnecessary. The constitution is supreme, and its interpretation lies with the Supreme Court of Ghana, Abdulai argued, adding that MPs-elect declared by the EC and gazetted must be sworn in without interference. He accused Mr Bagbin of overstepping his role and urged respect for due process. Next article: Akufo-Addo to deliver final message on the State of the Nation on Jan 3, 2025 Featured Constitutional Review Consultative Committee submits report to President Akufo-Addo Enoch Darfah Frimpong Politics Dec - 31 - 2024 , 00:35 23 minutes read The Constitutional Review Consultative Committee (CRCC) has submitted its report to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY On April 28, 2023, the member of Parliament for the Suame constituency and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, under the auspices of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) inaugurated the Constitution Review Consultative Committee, (the CRCC) to: A. Review the 2011 report of the Constitution Review Committee (CRC); B. Review submissions, proposals, and reports on various constitutional review platforms such as Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), University of Ghana School of Law, University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA), Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) etc.; Advertisement C. Make recommendations to the MoPA and its partners and collaborators such as the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), Africa Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET), IEA, Centre for Democratic Development (CDD), Institute of Democratic and Economic Governance (IDEG), National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), among others; and D. Submit a report to the Honourable Minister on the Committees preliminary suggestions or firm resolve for a review of the 1992 Constitution. The CRCC is made up of institutional representation through a process where the various institutions freely and independently nominate persons unto the Committee. These institutions are: (1) the Ministry of Justice and Attorney-General's Department (MoJAGD), (2) the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), (3) the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), (4) the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), (5) the Audit Service, (6) the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), (7) the Judicial Service, (8) the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), (9) the National Media Commission (NMC), (10) the Parliamentary Service, (11) the University of Ghana School of Law, (UGSoL), and (12) African Center for Economic Transformation, (ACET). Coincidentally, the members sent to the Committee from the various institutions include: (i) members who were on the Consultative Assembly that drafted the 1992 Constitution, and so have an insight into the reasons that produced the 1992 Constitution; (ii) members who were part of the CRC that produced the CRC Report of 2011; and (iii) a cross section of the Ghanaian society including civil society. The Committee at its maiden meeting unanimously elected Clara Kowlaga Beeri Kasser-Tee, Esq. as its chairperson. She represents the University of Ghana School of Law on the Committee. In producing this report, the Committee used a participatory qualitative methodology through consultations, desk review, comparative analysis, historical analysis and stakeholder validations. The Committee has also avoided duplication of efforts, and therefore relied on existing data and reports of similar nature where applicable. Among other things, the Committee has reviewed thoroughly the CRC Report of 2011 which used a methodology that directly and indirectly reached millions of Ghanaians (individuals, groups, institutions), including Ghanaians living abroad. The total number of formal submissions received, processed, coded, and stored in a database by the CRC is captured as 83,161. The views of the millions of Ghanaians who participated in the consultative processes of the CRC, directly or through traditional and new media, without formally making submissions are also thus represented in this Report. Furthermore, the Committee reviewed over 50 Stakeholder submissions that it received from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, including emails from citizens. Copies of the stakeholder submissions received are included in this report as Appendix 4. Finally, the Committee participated in stakeholder validation workshops where it presented its findings and recommendations for feedback. In carrying out its mandate, the Committee undertook a clause-by-clause consideration of the 1992 Constitution in its entirety vis-a-vis the CRC report of 2011 and the other stakeholder submissions received since the CRC report. In its recommendations, the Committee was guided by the underpinning values of the 1992 Constitution, such as liberty, equality of opportunity, prosperity, inclusion, respect for diversity, freedom and justice, accountability, rule of law, protection and preservation of human rights, unity of our nation, stability of our nation, sovereignty of the people of Ghana, respect for our cultural heritage, friendship and peace with all peoples of the world, and other democratic values. All of these were against the backdrop that constitutions are broad frameworks rather than manuals, so unnecessary detail is not suited for inclusion in a national constitution. The Committee needed to agree on this principle from the onset because some of the submissions that were received included descriptive details that are not suitable for inclusion in a national constitution. While clarity is a value that the Committee pursued, this was done devoid of unnecessary descriptive details that should belong in other forms of legislation or regulations rather than in a national constitution. So, the Committee gleaned the broad principles from these submissions and reduced them to a framework suitable for a national constitution. The Committees work on its recommendations were largely by consensus, and, in contested situations, by the vote of simple majority. Members who lost the vote exhibited good team spirit by fully supporting the continued work of the Committee to achieve the mandate thrust on it. Throughout its consultations and review, the Committee adopted for itself three guiding principles as follows: 1. Does it belong in the Constitution, or does it belong in an Act, Regulation, political party constitution, etc.? 2. Does the current provision achieve the effect, or the current provision necessarily needs to be amended? 3. Is the recommended amendment consistent with the clear values of the Constitution, the history of our Republic, democratic values and cultural heritage? The objective of the Committee is for its recommendations to reflect who we are as a people, where we are 12 years on since the CRC report, where we want to be in our democratic journey, and recommend a constitutional framework that puts us in a position to pursue what the Committee sees as the Ghanaian aspiration for democracy, i.e., to establish for ourselves and posterity a framework of government which shall secure the blessings of liberty, equality of opportunity and prosperity. Summary of Recommendations The recommendations in this report cover the proposed process for the amendment of the Constitution as well as thematic areas. Notable ones are as follows: General Amendment Procedure of the Constitution The Constitution provides within itself, its own procedures for changing any of its provisions if, for any reason, that provision no longer serves the people well. The lawful means of changing any or all the provisions of the Constitution is by amendment. The Constitution provides two ways by which it can be amended: 1. Through an Act of Parliament, (for non-entrenched provisions); or 2. Referendum, (for entrenched provisions). The Attachment to the CRC Report of 2011 contained two Draft Bills for the amendment of the Constitution. One of the draft Bills was for the amendment of non-entrenched provisions; and the other was for the proposed amendment of the entrenched provisions. The draft bills with respect to the amendment of the non-entrenched provisions specified all the proposed amendments falling within non-entrenched articles, and that for the entrenched provisions did the same. The amendment for entrenched provisions was therefore to be done in a single Bill, although this Bill indicated the specific provisions requiring amendment. These draft bills are included in this Report in Appendix 5. The Committee recommends the following amendment procedures; 1. With respect to entrenched provisions, (as these require a referendum), proposed amendments must be done in separate individual Bills in accordance with subject matter and consequential amendments, rather than in a single bill specifying all entrenched provisions proposed for amendment. Each proposed bill for amendment, (containing not more than one subject matter at a time), must be voted on separately. However, more than one proposed amendment may be presented to the Referendum provided that it permits the people to vote for each of them separately. 2. With respect to non-entrenched provisions, we agree with the CRC proposal, i.e. that it may be presented in a single Bill. It is our considered view that the above procedure gives the people of Ghana, the opportunity to reflect on the effect of each amendment and decide whether or not they want that particular amendment. Putting the amendments together in a single bill denies the people the right to decide which specific bills they want, and which specific bills they do not. We are of the view that this is more consistent with democratic values than putting all amendments in a single bill, as it is entirely possible that some may want specific amendments, but not others. While putting the amendments together in a single bill therefore denies the people a true choice in the matter, offering the people a chance to decide on each bill independently validates the peoples agency in the referendum. We propose a similar approach for proposed amendments of non-entrenched provisions, (which do not require a referendum), (i.e., that amendments be pursuant to separate bills grouped in accordance with subject matter and consequential amendments). However, as Parliament has deliberative powers over bills, an alternative approach for the amendment of non-entrenched provisions, would be to align with the original proposal of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) and consolidate all changes into a single comprehensive option. Specific Recommended Amendments: a. Determination of the Conditions of Service of Some Public Officers by the President, (i.e., Article 71 Holders) The Committee recommends that the emoluments of article 71 holders must be determined pursuant to a predetermined formula. This predetermined formula is to be set by an Independent Emoluments Committee, (IEC), composed of one representative each from the following institutions: the Public Services Commission, Ministry responsible for Finance, Organised Labour, Audit Service, and Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. The mandate of this IEC shall be to prescribe an emolument formula for the emoluments of article 71 holders. The emoluments of article 71 holders shall thereafter be determined pursuant to this formula, without the need to set up any further committees in the future. The institutions shall nominate their representatives, and the President shall appoint them. The emoluments of this IEC shall be similar to sitting allowances applicable to public Boards and Committees, and the IEC is to be dissolved after setting the pre-determined formula. The formula shall thereafter be managed by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. This avoids the continuous setting up of committees to determine the emoluments of article 71 holders. b. Parliament The Committee recommends that the size of parliament be capped to two hundred and seventy-seven elected members. Article 93 of the Constitution should therefore be amended to read as follows: There shall be a Parliament of Ghana which shall consist of not more than two hundred and seventy-seven elected members. The implication of this is that there must be consequential amendments to Article 47 to place a numerical cap on the number of constituencies that Ghana must have. Article 47 must therefore be amended to read as follows - Ghana shall be divided into as many constituencies for the purpose of election of Members of Parliament as the Electoral Commission may prescribe; however, the number of constituencies shall not exceed two hundred and seventy-seven. The reasons for the choice of two hundred and seventy-seven elected members as the maximum number are two: (a) recommending a lesser number than the existing number will require that certain constituencies be scrapped. The decision on which constituencies to scrap would involve politicians and their followers, and it is not reasonably expected that a political party would approve that constituencies in its stronghold be scrapped. On the other hand, it can be reasonably expected that each political party is more likely to lean towards recommending constituencies in its opponents stronghold to be scrapped. This would invariably result in needless acrimony. Not recommending a reduction would therefore be the less acrimonious option; (b) the existing constituencies are already two hundred and seventy-six. As an odd number is to be preferable, we recommend an upper limit of two hundred and seventy-seven. c. Appointment of Ministers from Parliament The Committee recommends that the President must have the option of appointing persons including members of parliament as ministers, provided that a Member of Parliament who is appointed as a minister shall vacate their seat. This is to address the challenge of the situation where some persons may contest for parliamentary positions not because they are interested in the work of parliament, but rather because being a member of parliament is also a means to earn an appointment as a minister of state. d. Cap on Appointment of Ministers and Deputy Ministers The Committee recommends that there must be an upper limit on the number of Ministers and Deputy Ministers that a President can appoint, and this upper limit should be 55. e. Declaration of Assets The Committee recommends the inclusion of a requirement for the Auditor-General to verify the assets declared and a certificate of verification to be issued to the person. The Auditor General shall audit the declaration to satisfy themself whether the assets are legitimately acquired or reasonably attributable to one's income. Thus, any property or assets acquired by a public officer after the initial declaration required by Article 286 clause (1) and which is not reasonably attributable to income, gift, loan, inheritance or any other reasonable source shall be deemed to have been acquired in contravention of this Constitution. The relevant provision on Declaration of Assets thus should read as follows: 1. A person who holds a public office mentioned in clause (5) of this Article shall submit to the Auditor-General a written declaration of all property or assets owned by, or liabilities owed by that person, whether directly or indirectly- a. within three months after the coming into force of this Constitution or before taking office, as the case may be, b. at the end of every four years; and c. at the end of their term of office. 2. Failure to declare or knowingly making false declaration shall be in contravention of this Constitution and shall be dealt with in accordance with Article 287 of this Constitution. 3. Any property or assets acquired by a public officer after the initial declaration required by clause (1) of this Article and which is not reasonably attributable to income, gift, loan, inheritance or any other reasonable source shall be deemed to have been acquired in contravention of this Constitution. 4. The public offices to which the provisions of this Article apply are those of (a) the President of the Republic; (b) the Vice-President of the Republic; (c) the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker and a member of Parliament; (d) Minister of State or Deputy Minister; (e) Chief Justice, Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature, (f) the Commissioner for Human Rights and Administrative Justice and his Deputies and all judicial officers; (g) Ambassador or High Commissioner; (h) Secretary to the Cabinet; (i) Head of Ministry or government department or equivalent office in the Civil Service; (j) The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund; (k) Chairperson and Members of Council of State; (l) Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives; (m) Chairperson and Deputy of the Electoral Commission; (n) The Administrator of GETFUND; (o) chairman, managing director, general manager and departmental head of a public corporation or company in which the State has a controlling interest; and (p) such officers in the public service and any other public institution as Parliament may prescribe. 5. The Auditor-General shall verify the assets declared and a certificate of verification shall be issued to the person. f. Payment of Tax by the President Article 68 (5) exempts the President from the payment of income tax. The Committee recommends that the President should pay tax on his salary and emoluments as an example to the rest of the citizenry. This will also reflect the principle of equality before the law and accord with the rule of law. Article 68 (5) therefore should be deleted to mandate the President of the country to pay tax. The amendment of this provision will trigger the necessary consequential amendment in the income tax law of the country. g. The National Development Planning Commission, (the NDPC) All the submissions received on the NDPC expressed the need for the NDPC to be independent de facto and de jure; inclusive in composition; able to develop or formulate and periodically revise the national development plan; be national in character, etc. Furthermore, the desire to have a national long-term development plan was evident in the submissions received. Among the reasons for this was a guard against interruptions in the developmental progress of the country due to changes in political leadership and abandonment of some of the developmental projects because of these changes. To achieve the above objectives, this Committee recommends an amendment to the composition of the NDPC to include: 1. the Minister responsible for Finance; 2. a former Minister responsible for Finance who must not belong to the same political party as the sitting Minister responsible for Finance; 3. Three representatives from university teachers associations in Ghana, who must have demonstrable expertise in economic, environmental, spatial planning or other relevant sectors; 4. A representative from a political party that attains at least 10% votes in general elections, to be nominated by the political party; 5. the Governor, Central Bank; 6. the Governments Statistician; 7. a representative of the Association of Bankers, to be nominated by the Association; 8. a representative from the Association of Ghana industries, to be nominated by the Association; 9. a representative from organised labour to be nominated by the organised labour; 10. a representative from Ghana Employers Association to be nominated by the Association; 11. a representative from traders associations to be nominated by the associations; 12. a representative from Ghana Farmers and Fishermen Association to be nominated by the Association; 13. a representative with competencies in development, economic, social, environment, spatial planning, technological or other relevant sectors each from the Coastal, Middle Belt and Savannah Economic Zones, to be nominated by the relevant regional coordinating councils in the respective Economic Zones; 14. the Director General of NDPC; 15. two representatives from National House of Chiefs, one of whom must be a woman; 16. A representative from the Federation of Persons living with Disability to be nominated by the Federation; 17. A representative from civil society organisations to be nominated by civil society; 18. A representative from private sector enterprises to nominated by private enterprises federation; and 19. such other persons, not exceeding three, at least one of whom must be a woman, to be appointed by the President having regard to their knowledge and experience of the relevant areas and roles pertaining to development, economic, social, environmental, spatial planning or other relevant sectors. The tenure of the members of the NDPC shall be 7 years non-renewable and shall not be coterminous with that of the President. The Committee recommends the following to be included to the existing functions of the NDPC: The Commission shall: i. Formulate a long-term National Development Plan taking into consideration the resource potential and comparative advantage of the various regions and districts of Ghana for approval by Parliament. ii. Revise the National Development Plan every ten years or such earlier period as may be approved by Parliament by two-thirds majority of all members of parliament. iii. monitor, evaluate and co-ordinate development policies, programmes and projects and submit an annual report to Parliament. iv. The other provisions on functions to stay. The NDPCs annual report to Parliament shall indicate to what extent the Government of the day has adhered to the national development plan, and to what extent the plan requires modification. h. The National Security Council The Committee recommends that the following be included in the existing National Security Council provision: a. the head of Ghana Immigration Service b. Minister responsible for National Security c. Economic and Organized Crime Office d. the head of Ghana National Fire Service e. the head of National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons f. the head of National Disaster Management Organization, and g. three persons appointed by the President, at least one of whom must be a woman. This Committee recommends an amendment to the composition of the National Security Council to include: 1. the President, 2. the Vice-President, 3. the Ministers responsible for foreign affairs, defence, interior, and finance, 4. the Chief of Defence Staff and two other Service commanders who do not belong to the same Service of the Armed Forces, 5. the Inspector-General of Police and two other members of the Police Service, one of whom shall be the Commissioner of Police responsible for Criminal Investigations Department; 6. the Director-General of the Prisons Service; 7. the Director of External Intelligence; 8. the Director of Internal Intelligence; 9. the Director of Military Intelligence; 10. the Commissioner General of Ghana Revenue Authority, the head of Ghana Immigration Service; 11. Minister responsible for National Security; 12. the head of Economic and Organized Crime Office; 13. the head of Ghana National Fire Service; 14. the head of National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons; 15. the head of National Disaster Management Organization; and 16. three persons appointed by the President, one of whom must be a woman. i. Decentralisation and Local Government The Committee recommends the election of the Chief Executive Officer by the registered voters of the area in a public election. A person shall be elected if the person obtains a simple majority of the valid votes cast. Consequently, the only way the office of the Chief Executive shall become vacant is as follows: a vote of no confidence, supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the members of the District Assembly is passed against them; or they resign or die. if any circumstance arise that would cause him to be disqualified or ineligible for election, under article 94 of this Constitution. Article 246 should be amended by inserting a clause 3 which provides that where a vacancy occurs in the membership of a District Assembly, the District Coordinating Director of the Assembly shall notify the Electoral Commission in writing within seven days of becoming aware of the vacancy and the Electoral Commission shall, within thirty days of being notified, hold a by-election to fill the vacancy, except that where the vacancy is as a result of the death of a member, the by- election shall be held within sixty days after the occurrence of the vacancy. Qualifications and Procedures: The Committee recommends for Article 247 to require the qualifications for Chief Executive and membership of a District Assembly, the procedures of a District Assembly and other local government units lower than a District Assembly that may be created to be provided for by an Act of Parliament, through an amendment to the Local Government Act. j. Judiciary Efficient Administration of Justice The Committee among other things recommends the amendment of Article 144(6) so that a petition for the removal of the Chief Justice shall require the President to act in consultation with the Council of State, and upon determining that a prima facie case has been made, appoint a committee consisting of two Justices of the Supreme Court, one of whom shall be appointed chairperson by the President, and three other persons who are not members of the Council of State, nor members of Parliament, nor lawyers. The rules and regulations for regulating the practice and procedure for the removal of supreme court judges, chief justice, chairpersons of the electoral commission, etc. shall be made by the Rules of Court Committee pursuant to article 154(2). k. Fundamental Human Rights o Right to Fair Trial One of the requirements of a democracy is the right to a speedy trial. The Committee therefore recommends that the trial of persons charged with criminal offences shall commence not later than 6 months. o The right to good healthcare Although the Constitution provides for the right of the sick, it does not expressly provide for the right to good healthcare. The Committee therefore recommends an amendment to include that every person has a right to good healthcare. o Article 17(2): The Committee received several submissions with respect to Article 17(2). The submissions related to a request to expand the category of discrimination in Article 17(2) to include discrimination based on disability. This arises from the historical fact that disability has been a ground to discriminate negatively against persons with disability. Persons with disability must therefore be included in the category of discrimination both as protection for persons with disabilities and awareness of the ground of disability. Article 17(2) reads as follows: A person shall not be discriminated against on grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, creed or social or economic status. Committees recommendation: The Committee recommends that persons with disability should be included in the list of those not to be discriminated against. So, the Article should now read as follows: A person shall not be discriminated against on grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, religion, disability, political opinion, creed or social or economic status Consequently, all constitutional provisions related to the enforcement of fundamental human rights and prevention of discrimination should reflect this. These include Articles 12 (2), 17(2) and 35 (5). l. Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) Article 218(1) of the Constitution provides as follows: The functions of the Commission shall be defined and prescribed by Act of Parliament and shall include the duty- (a) to investigate complaints of violations of fundamental rights and freedoms, injustice, corruption, abuse of power and unfair treatment of any person by a public officer in the exercise of his duties. This provision has been interpreted to mean that CHRAJ cannot investigate alleged violations under this provision in the absence of an identifiable complainant. The Committee received submissions advocating that this provision be amended to permit the Commission to investigate violations under this provision whether or not there is a complainant. It was argued that due to fear of retribution, many complainants may be uncomfortable to formally file complaints of violations under this provision. It would therefore serve a beneficial social value and as a rights protection regime if CHRAJ is empowered to investigate violations falling under the above-mentioned provision in appropriate cases, on its own, (i.e., without the need for a complainant). The Committees recommendations The Committee recommends the amendment of article 218(a) to empower CHRAJ to investigate certain complaints whether or not it has a complainant. Article 218(a) should therefore be amended to read as follows: The functions of the Commission shall be defined and prescribed by Act of Parliament and shall include the duty i. to investigate all instances of violations of fundamental rights and freedoms, injustice, corruption, abuse of power and unfair treatment of any person by a public officer in the exercise of their official duties. ii. to investigate matters concerning practises and actions by public officers in respect of alleged violation of their fundamental human rights. j. Appointments of Heads of Independent Constitutional Bodies (ICBs) To address concerns raised by stakeholders on the influence of the executive in the appointment process of the heads of ICBs, a revision of the current appointment procedure is recommended. The Committee recommends that the heads of ICBs be appointed by an open competitive process which includes parliamentary vetting and approval, after which the successful candidates are appointed by the President. The Committee recommends that this appointment procedure be extended to all the heads of the ICBs including the Electoral Commission, National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) and the Government Statistician, m. Immunity from Service Process and Arrest Another article which has raised contested views was Article 117, with many suggesting that the constitutional immunity granted under this clause should be revoked. Upon careful consideration by the Committee, it is recommended that the desirable amendment will be to simply delete the word arrest" from the title of the provision. Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh The Electoral Commission (EC) has cancelled the decision to do a re-run at one of the polling stations in the Dome Kwabenya constituency of the Greater Accra Region. It has accordingly confirmed Faustina Elikplim Akurugu, the candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the Member of Parliament-Elect for the Dome Kwabenya constituency, She beat the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) candidate, Michael Aaron Oquaye Jnr with a difference of 298 votes. The decision was reached after the Electoral Commission met on Tuesday (Dec 31, 2024) to resolve the outstanding issue in relation to collation of the results from the various polling stations in the constituency in respect of the parliamentary election held on December 7, 2024. After all the issues had been resolved, the Returning Officer for the constituency, James Zakaria Kofi explained that they have arrived at the final result. And that on the face of the pink sheets, Michael Aaron Yaw Oquaye Jnr. of the NPP polled 50,669 votes, Akurugu Faustina Elikplim of the NDC, polled 50,967 votes, Dora Nyako polled 220 votes and Remy Parkour Edmerson polled 302. He said the total valid votes were 102,158. The total rejected ballots were 624 out of the total votes cast of 102,782. The Returning Officer for the constituency, James Zakaria Kofi therefore went ahead and declared Akurugu Faustina Elikplim as the MP-elect for the Dome Kwabenya constituency. Read the full text of the explanation from the Electoral Commission below Good afternoon to all of you, our media partners and members of the NDC and particularly from the Dome-Kwanenya Constituency. We would like to welcome all of you warmly. We thank the good Lord for making it possible for us to witness the last day of the year. Indeed to him be all the glory, great things he has done and greater things he will do. Our purpose here this afternoon is simple. It is to provide you, the citizens of Ghana, with an update on the parliamentary election in Dome-Kwanenya Constituency. As you may be aware, on the night of the election, some leaders of political parties asked their supporters to go into our collation centres and this led to chaos and some confusion. In Dome-Kwanenya, the constituency was no exception. The collation centre was besieged by party supporters who brought collation there to a halt. In the process, pink sheets, results collation forms and other materials were destroyed and collation was not completed on that day. Since then, as a Commission, we tried to ensure the completion of the collation and as you may bear witness, we held the first exercise to complete the collation in the Dome-Kwanenya Constituency on the 21st of December. Unfortunately, although we came a long way, we were not able to complete it because there were three polling station pink sheets outstanding. In our second attempt to complete the process, we again brought together the parties, basically the NDC and the NPP with their agents to assist us to bring the collation to a completion to enable us to declare the outcome of the election. That collation was held on the 28th, just this past Saturday, the 28th of December. At that meeting, the NDC was able to provide two pink sheets which was confirmed by our staff at the constituency. Unfortunately, there was a missing pink sheet, one pink sheet for the Abokobi Women's Training Centre and both the NDC and the NPP did not have the sheets. It's important to note that the NPP did not have any pink sheets, any of the three pink sheets at all, but after scrutinising the pink sheets presented by the NDC, they were found to be legitimate and they tallied with what we had also found. The missing link was this polling station sheet which none of the parties had and it was for the Abokobi Women's Training Centre. It's important to note that in the attempt to re-collate, our officer had brought a pink sheet for the Abokobi Women's Training Centre and it bore, on the face of it, training. It had written on the face of it the word training and it was a presidential pink sheet. And so, in the view of the Commission, a training pink sheet had no business at the polling station on election day and upon scrutinising it, the Commission was of the view that it could not be accepted. It is important to note that the parties also did not have any evidence. Both NDC and NPP did not have the pink sheets to confirm whether what was written on the training sheet was legitimate and was accurate. And so in the view of the Commission and in the interest of fairness, the Commission felt that it was proper to re-run the election for that particular polling station to ensure fairness. We have always maintained as a Commission that our interest is not to make anybody a president and this is something we have said across board to all our officers. Our interest is to conduct credible and transparent elections that are fair, that ensure that the will of the people as expressed at the polls is upheld. And so once none of the parties had any pink sheets to confirm and they both said they didn't have it, we agreed at that meeting that we should have a re-run. It's important to note that at that meeting, the NDC agreed that we had to have a re-run. The NPP was of the view that because their agents had left the centre, they had not taken part in the collation and therefore they wanted the Commission to start the collation afresh. We explained to them that the Commission had received all the pink sheets and I think that was 369, I believe it was 369 polling stations, and we of course checked that against what had been done by the returning officer and it was accurate. It was just that one missing pink sheet and that is why we took the decision to have a re-run. And this as I said was agreed to by the NDC. Since then we have not rested on our oars and we've tried to unravel how we came by this. In all of this, as you may be aware, we of course had reached out to the returning officer and our district officer but we did not have any explanation for the use of the training sheet. What they had said was that the presiding officer realised at the point of filling the form that what she had was a presidential pink sheet and therefore she used a presidential training sheet. It didn't add up. It was not convincing. And so two days ago as a Commission, in our investigation we had a light-bulb moment. Why don't we go to the ground? Rather than deal with collation agents at the collation centre, why don't we identify, look out for the agents, the polling agents at the Abokobi Womens Training Centre? And so we took steps. We reached out to the parties and we were able to do that. The Presiding Officer was out of town. We were able to also reach her and ask her to return to Accra to answer a few questions. This morning we met with her and she explained to us how she arrived at the training sheet. She actually arrived at using the pink sheet for presidential training with training embossed on it. It's important to note that she did not have this training sheet with her on election day. And it's also important to note that contrary to what is being peddled in the news, that training sheet was not signed by party agents. The question has been asked that, oh it's the ECs sheet, why are they not using it? Training sheets have no place at the polling station and that's why we are not using it. It was not a parliamentary training sheet, it was presidential one and it was not signed by any of the party agents. What she has explained is that, as I mentioned, she recognised that she did not have the parliamentary training sheet, she had the presidential. So she tallied everything on paper, she had both agents of the NPP and the NDC confirm the figure and they decided they agreed to go to the collation centre to obtain a copy of the parliamentary training sheet. Once there, they were informed to go to the district office. On their way there, unfortunately they were accosted by some thugs who threatened their lives and in the process she fled. The good news is that she had the sheet in her bag but she fled and she says that the agents also disserted and they all left. And so none of them had the results. She had it on a sheet. I'm happy to note, however, that the parties, although we did not have a pink sheet for parliamentary, signed and completed, each party also had their own tally cards and on that tally sheet they had the number of persons who came through. They had all the details, including the results, the total for each political party. We have received that from the NDC. Although they are not present here, the presiding officer, some days after the election, reached out to the party agents and the agent for the NDC sent his copy and we've seen that; we have the evidence and their communication. And the tally is that of what our presiding officer had on a training sheet. We have also met with the NDC agent and we've also taken a record of his tally sheet which also contains the number of people who came to the centre and the votes for each of the parties and the tally. And that has enabled us to arrive at the completion today. So today, the Commission is pleased to note that it has brought proceedings and collations at the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency to a close. It has gone full circle and we are convinced without a shadow of doubt that the outcome reflects the will of the people as expressed at the polls. So as mentioned, ours is not to make anybody president, it is to ensure that our outcomes and our processes guarantee that the people's choice is upheld. So we are happy to note that we have come full circle today and the outcome of that election has been confirmed, has been legitimate, has been the choice of the people. I think that the lesson in it is that our processes must be allowed to work. I know that the candidates have been through quite a bit, but the processes must be allowed to work. I'd like to also put on record that we don't rest on our oars yet and we've burnt the midnight oil to ensure that the right thing is done. And we're pleased that we had that flash, that light-bulb moment to go down, to drill down to the ground and that has brought out the truth and the truth will be upheld. So thank you very much for your time this afternoon. Featured Okuapeman honours Dan Botwe as Nkosuohene Graphic Online Politics Dec - 31 - 2024 , 13:25 2 minutes read The chiefs and people of the Akuapem Traditional area have honoured Daniel Kwaku Botwe, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Okere in the Eastern Region, as the Nkosuohene (development Chief) of Akuapem. The title was bestowed on him during the annual Odwira durbar of the Akuapem Nifa Division at Adukrom last Saturday. Mr Botwe, who is the outgoing MP for Okere was honoured for his hard work, integrity and honour brought to the people of Akuapem throughout his political life and particularly as the MP for Okere. Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio, the Akuapem Nifahene and Chief of Adukrom who spoke on behalf of Oseadeyo Kwasi Akuffo, the Okuapehene said the whole of Akuapem is impressed with your hard work and selfless service to Ghana. Advertisement He said the move was for the Akuapem Traditional area to tap into his vast experience in politics, selfless service, development and mobilisation as he retires from Parliament, come January 2025. 16 years of leadership Mr Botwe, a former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Minister of State bows out of Parliament after 16 years of sterling leadership to the people of Okere. He started politics from his student days at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, through to becoming the chief scribe of the NPP. In the last 16 years as the MP for Okere, he has endeared himself to the people which is evident with the significant development of his constituency. Integrity His mark of integrity in politics was heightened when he ably led the Ministry of Regional Reorganisation and Development, to create the additional six new regions in the first term of the NPP government. Pledge On his part, Mr Botwe who was surprised at the turn of events thanked the chiefs and people for the honour done him and for their support and Cooperation. He said I remain your MP for the next 10 days adding that he would officially bid farewell to the people at the next Akwasidae. He pledged and assured the people of supporting the Okere MP-elect, Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth as well as help in the development of Okere and Akuapem in general in every capacity he could. Present at the ceremony were Oseadeyo Kwasi Akuffo, the Okuapehene, Otubuor Djan Kwasi, Akuapem Adontenhene and chief of Aburi, other divisional chiefs and B.D.K. Adu, former MP for the area. Apple was reportedly looking to launch the iPhone 17 Pro in 2025 with a 2nm chipset, but it might have to delay its plans by 12 months, according to reports from South Korea. The latest information from insiders claimed that TSMC is struggling with wafer yield, and the 2nm chips have yet to be certified for mass production. There is too much demand for test products, and the Taiwanese maker is pushed to adapt its existing facilities for the new process, which will take time. TSMC exclusively produces chips for Apple devices like iPhones and MacBooks, but the Taiwanese firm also serves other prominent clients like Nvidia and Qualcomm. Allegedly, these two companies are in talks with Samsung Electronics to expand production to Korean foundries if tensions in Taiwan worsen. TSMC currently manufactures 10,000 wafers monthly, with plans to expand to 80,000 by 2026. Its facility in Arizona will contribute to achieving a total production capacity of 140,000. TSMC semiconductor manufacturing fab site in Phoenix, Arizona Taiwan's Economic Daily reported that the yield for 2nm wafers is at 60%, indicating that 40% of each wafer is unusable. With the production cost for one wafer at KRW 44 million (approximately $30,000), TSMC effectively loses $120 million monthly due to the imperfections of the new process. The solution is straightforward Apple will continue using a 3 nm process for another year, allowing TSMC to enhance yield and improve pricing. Samsung faces challenges as well the South Korean company needs to boost both the yield and performance of its 2 nm chips, which are already falling short compared to its major Taiwanese rival. Source (in Korean) Saipan-based Seafix Inc. in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands was awarded a $24 million contract for Navy Afloat maintenance services II. This is according to the Department of Defense in its list of contracts for Dec. 30. The DoD said its a hybrid, firm-fixed-price, cost, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Work is expected to be completed by Jan. 14, 2030. Back in December 2019, the DoD announced a $15.2 million-plus contract also for Seafix Inc. Saipan and at the time said work was expected to be completed by 2024. The DoD said the Seafix Inc. Saipan contract provides for preventive and corrective maintenance for the Navy Improved Lighterage Systems aboard Military Sealift Command ships supporting the Marine Corps Maritime Prepositioning Forces, MPF, outside the continental U.S., and ashore at various locations outside the continental U.S., as well as the Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Florida. Work will be performed primarily aboard MPF Ships, at the Blount Island Command, and at other locations outside the continental U.S. as required, the DoD said. This contract includes one option for transition that will not be exercised as the award is to the incumbent. No funds will be obligated for this contract, and the appropriate fiscal Navy operation and maintenance funds will be obligated at time of award for all subsequent task orders. These funds will not expire during the duration of the task order, the DoD said. This contract was competitively procured via the SAM.gov website with one proposal received. The Marine Corps Blount Island Commands Contracts Office in Jacksonville, Florida awarded the contract. From Don Don Donki to McDonalds and Jollibee, several popular new restaurants and stores opened in 2024, and more are expected in early 2025. The single largest new retail investment, estimated at $150 million, was the much anticipated Don Don Donki store, which opened on April 25 as the anchor tenant of the expansive Village of Donki. It is the first of its kind in the U.S. said operator Pan Pacific Retail Management (Guam). The company said its confident that the Japanese retail giant will become a beloved destination for locals and tourists. There are about 1,100 parking spots and if the parking lot gets too full, entrances may have to be closed temporarily to ensure emergency services can access the store, which can accommodate about 3,500 shoppers at a time. aThe stores 800 shopping carts were used as a gauge to measure capacity inside. According to a store official, 40% of Donki products are sourced from Japan, 50% are from the U.S., and the other 10% are from all around Asia. Guamanians were also treated to a new store from Philippine fast-food giant Jollibee, which opened up the doors of its Agana Shopping Center location on June 27. Minutes after the ribbon was cut at the new location, customers were already queued out the door, waiting to place their orders, while both drive-thru lanes were bumper to bumper. The Jollibee mascot came out to greet the crowd, and the grand opening was commemorated with a giant bucket of Chickenjoy that took three people to carry. The Hagatna location is the second Jollibee on Guam since the franchise re-entered the local market back in 2019. Plans to open a third location are already in the works. Meanwhile, another franchise store of the worlds largest fast food chain, McDonalds, opened on Guam on Dec. 14. Franchise owners and their guests, plus anyone who felt like coming by, officially opened the restaurant in Mangilao at the busiest intersection of the village. Local customers can also look forward to the openings of two other popular retail outlets in early 2025. Super Happy Mart will add a new store in early February in Harmon. Cost.U.Less said it will open its fourth and largest location, a 50,000-sq. ft. concept store at the Agana Shopping Center by mid-2025. CHamorus and Guamanians around the world celebrated this year a milestone 80th anniversary of Guams liberation on July 21, 1944, as World War II came to a close. The annual memorials and celebrations seemed to carry more meaning for the 80th. The annual Manenggon memorial, paying tribute to those killed en masse by Japanese troops, kicked off the months events. The Liberation Day parade grounds drew thousands of residents, tourists and military service members. Camping out along the parade route went from a long-standing tradition to a full-blown family reunion for many families. Barrigada won first place in the 2024 Liberation Day parade float competition by village, followed by Dededo and Mangilao. Layla Cabrini Delgado Espinal, of Mangilao, was the 80th Liberation Day Queen. And even as the number of World War II survivors continues to drop with each passing year, officials recognized two survivors as grand marshals for Guams milestone 80th Liberation Day anniversary. Teresita M. Paulino, 86, and Francisco Leon Guerrero Manibusan, 91, were announced as 80th Liberation Day Parade grand marshals five days before the islandwide celebration. With the youngest of U.S. soldiers around 19 years old in 1944, there are still a handful of liberators left. Of that handful, 99-year-old U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Frank Wright made the trip to Guam to celebrate with her people. Wright said he was looking forward to making his return to Guam for many many years, and said he was humbled and absolutely honored to represent Our country...our Marine Corps. And the survivors thats what its for, he said during a news conference before Liberation Day. Wright was wounded by a bayonet to his stomach as he battled Japanese armed forces during Guams liberation 80 years ago this year. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close The Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority bought 48 acres and moved to condemn 42 acres of land in Mangilao for a new hospital and medical complex in 2024, with the governor eyeing a groundbreaking by 2025. But arguments over the location of the new hospital have now moved from the Legislature to the courtroom, with new legal challenges to the land deals raised in the final days of 2024. Senators spent the early part of the year debating the merits of building the hospital in either Tamuning or Mangilao-Barrigada, as the debate over the two locations entered into its third year. When a bill to mandate construction in Tamuning narrowly passed in February, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero vetoed it. Lawmakers have since failed multiple times to override the veto, as the term of the 37th Guam Legislature comes to a close. The governor in May tapped GHURA to help buy land for a new hospital, saying senators were dragging their feet on the new hospital. GHURA accepted a $10 million loan of federal American Rescue Plan money from Adelup to buy land for the facility, and the governor said she hoped to start construction of a new hospital by 2025 with the agencys help. Speaker Therese Terlaje at the time accused Leon Guerrero of doing deals behind our backs instead of working with the Legislature, and Guam Medical Association president Dr. Tom Shieh said GHURA was getting mixed up in political influences from Adelup. In October, the governor and GHURA announced a $3.5 million acquisition of 48 acres of property for the new hospital. The Mangilao land was purchased under probate from the estate of Catalina Eclavea Camacho. At a Nov. 26 board meeting, the GHURA board of commissioners voted to condemn another 42 acres. The two landowners involved, veterinarian Dr. Joel Joseph and construction company Hong Yi Tian Inc., both asked the commission for more time and said they felt their property was worth more than they were being offered. Hong Yi Tian was first contacted about a possible sale on Aug. 23, while Joseph was first contacted about six weeks before the condemnation vote. On Dec. 12, Attorney General Douglas Moylan issued a legal opinion which found that GHURA had not followed the law when it went through condemnation process, and did not properly notify the public before accepting loans of federal ARP money at two separate board meetings. GHURA filed for condemnation in the Superior Court of Guam on Dec. 18, and its executive director, Elizabeth Napoli, said GHURA disagreed with the AGs opinion. Landowner Joseph promised to fight the condemnation of his property and file a counter-lawsuit, potentially for years. The AG on Dec. 20 filed a civil suit in the District Court of Guam, asking the court to freeze the spending of around $100 million federal ARP funds the governor planned to spend, unlawfully, he alleged, on construction of the new hospital. Adelup, in a statement, called the lawsuit a political stunt. Moylan and the Office of the Governor have accused one another of threatening the loss of the $100 million meant for hospital construction. The money must be obligated by Dec. 31, or else it will expire. Pope Francis in July appointed the then bishop of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to serve as the new archbishop of the Archdiocese of Agana on Guam, a dominantly Catholic community still reeling from a massive clergy sex abuse scandal and the archdioceses reorganization bankruptcy. Four months later, the pope appointed a new bishop of the CNMI, who previously served as apostolic administrator or interim archbishop of Guam. With the appointments, the two priests who have been serving the Marianas for several years and both originally from the Philippines, essentially switched places. Archbishop Ryan Pagente Jimenez was appointed to lead the Archdiocese of Agana on Guam on July 6, and was officially installed on Aug. 15 in a well-attended ceremony replete with centuries-old Catholic traditions and symbolisms. At the time of his appointment, Jimenez was serving as bishop of the CNMI. It didnt take long for the Vatican to fill the leadership vacancy left by Jimenez. Pope Francis on Nov. 25 appointed Guams Father Romeo Duetao Convocar to serve as bishop of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa on Saipan. He will be installed on March 8, 2025. At the time of Convocars appointment to lead the church in the CNMI, he was serving as vicar general of the archdiocese on Guam. Convocar also served as the archdioceses interim leader or apostolic administrator when the Guam archbishops post was vacated in March 2023, when Archbishop Michael Jude Byrnes resigned over a life-changing illness. Even when Byrnes was still archbishop, Convocar was already involved in the archdioceses healing process and bankruptcy proceedings. Under Convocars leadership, the archdiocese exited bankruptcy and continued to work toward the fulfilment of other parts of the settlement agreement, including the December release of the list of 48 Guam clergy accused of child sexual abuse, from the 1960s to the 2000s. Among them is former Guam Archbishop Anthony Apuron, who was found guilty by a Vatican tribunal of sexually assaulting multiple minors. Former altar boys started publicly accusing Apuron and other priests in 2016 of rape and other abuses that took place years earlier. The pope replaced Apuron with Byrnes. The archdiocese settled some 300 clergy sex abuse claims using its own cash, insurance money, and transfer and/or sale of properties, including the historic chancery property in Agana Heights, which the government of Guam bought for $2.38 million. The purchased property includes the archbishops residence, where the late Pope John Paul II, who later became a saint, stayed overnight during his historic visit to Guam on Feb. 22 and 23, 1981. Meanwhile, when Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, who currently serves in the Vatican as the Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, personally delivered the news of Convocars appointment, it gave some island residents hope of a new papal visit to Guam after more than 40 years. Tagle has been reported for years as a contender to become the next pope. When the 38th Guam Legislature is sworn into office on Jan. 6, the Republicans will have control of the legislative branch of government for the first time in 16 years. Republican Del. James Moylan also won his first reelection bid. He garnered 15,422 votes, or 52.69%, to Democrat Ginger Cruzs 13,703 votes, or 46.81%. Cruz won a three-war Democratic Party primary in August with Sen. Amanda Shelton and former Del. Mike San Nicolas. Moylan first won in 2022, becoming the first Guam Republican delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives in nearly 30 years. This, as Guam hit an all-time low general election voter turnout of 48.3% while also recording a record-high number of registered voters, which might have skewed the numbers. Of the record-high 62,091 voters who were registered, only 29,993 cast a ballot, Guam Election Commission data shows. During the Nov. 5 general election, the Republicans won a decisive 9-6 seat edge in the legislative race. And while the voters ended an eight-term run for the Democrats as the majority party, three of the five top vote-getters were Democrats. Speaker Therese Terlaje and Rules Committee Chairman Sen. Chris Barnett finished top 1 and 2, respectively, while Sen. Joe S. San Agustin was the number 4 top vote getter. Former Sen. Vicente Tony Ada was the top Republican vote-getter at number 3 overall, while newcomer Sabrina Salas Matanane finished with the 5th highest number of votes. The Republicans lost two incumbent senators in Joanne Brown and Thomas Fisher, but they gained five new members in Ada, Salas Matanane and newcomers Shelly Calvo, Vincent Borja and Eulogio Shawn Gumataotao, resulting in a net gain of three. They elected current minority leader Sen. Frank Blas Jr. to be the speaker of the incoming legislative body. The nine-member Republican majority also means they can vote along strict party lines and will have more than the eight votes necessary to pass any bill. However, the GOP will still be one vote short of a veto-proof 10 votes over the two years remaining in the term of Democrat Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero. Three Democrats will not be returning Sens. Roy Quinata and Dwayne San Nicolas lost their re-election bids, while Sen. Amanda Shelton made an unsuccessful run for Congress. Guams tourism industry, which has been struggling to recover, will start 2025 with a change at the top and a new way forward. Local industry leaders said Guams continued sluggish tourism rebound in 2024 was among the slowest in the world. The apparent dissatisfaction over the crisis with the local visitor industrys rate of recovery ultimately led to a high-profile management change at the Guam Visitors Bureau by years end. GVB General Manager Carl Gutierrez resigned in November ahead of a GVB board meeting in which his potential removal was on the agenda. His departure also brought an end to the often strained relationship between Gutierrez and the board over the past few years. GVB statistics have shown that visitor arrivals are still at just 46% of record pre-pandemic numbers, and to underscore the urgent need for a plan to bolster the industry, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero made a rare appearance at a GVB board meeting on Oct. 24. The governors visit followed the release of an initial draft of a tourism recovery report prepared by private sector tourism executives, pointing to Guams tourism industry as being the slowest to recover in the region. Gutierrez resignation came at a subsequent GVB board meeting on Nov. 7, which included a heated exchange with GVB Board Chairman George Chiu. Chiu started the meeting by speaking out about Gutierrezs recent criticism of the GVB board and about the industry groups tourism recovery proposal. Gutierrez stood up and angrily lashed out at Chiu for scolding him about being irresponsible. Gutierrez and GVB management were supposed to meet with board vice chairman Joaquin Cook the week before to review the proposed recovery plan, but according to Cook, GVB management declined two scheduled appointments. Two letters were also sent to Gutierrez from Guam Economic Development Authority CEO and Administrator Melanie Mendiola and GEDA Board Chairman David John, urging Gutierrez to heed the business groups recommendations and take swift action to revive the tourism industry. But Gutierrez referred to all of it as an orchestrated effort against his leadership. After that meeting, Gutierrez told the PDN that GVB management had reviewed the industry plan, and that he had provided the board with GVBs current plan which, when compared to the industry plan, was about 95% already being done anyway. But thats not what the industrys Guam Tourism situation report had concluded. It said after four years without significant arrivals, numerous businesses have closed and thousands of jobs have been lost. The report also said that 92% of the Asia Pacific region has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, except Guam. Guams fiscal 2024 arrivals reached 753,316, about 46% of the 1.6 million seen prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but GVB is hoping that tourism numbers could reach 1 million again this fiscal year. As of late December, the search continues for a new GVB general manager.University of Guam dean of the School of Business and Public Administration and economics professor Roseanne Jones said tourism in 2024 didnt keep that momentum that we were expecting and that began to worry many. Guam experienced the lowest market share from historically key visitor markets of Japan and South Korea. Compounding this is the depreciation of the Japanese yen and Korean won against the U.S. dollar, making Guam a more expensive destination for tourists from these key markets. Haiti - FLASH USA : Strategic meeting on the modernization and strengthening of FAdH On Monday, December 30, 2024, Jean Michel Moise, the Minister of Defense, received Dennis B. Hankins, the United States Ambassador to Haiti, accompanied by the Deputy Chief of Security Cooperation, Major Joseph Callaway, for a strategic meeting on the modernization and strengthening of the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H). This meeting demonstrates the mutual commitment to consolidating a modern and professional military institution, serving Haiti's national security and sustainable development. During the discussions, several areas of collaboration were addressed, including : - The State Partnership Program with the Louisiana National Guard, a key tool for strengthening the capacities of the FAd'H and promoting technical and strategic exchanges; - Increasing personnel through the training of new soldiers, marking an essential step in the expansion and professionalization of the FAd'H; - Respect for human rights by members of the security forces, an essential pillar to ensure a responsible military institution that respects democratic values. The Minister of Defense welcomes this dynamic collaboration with the United States, which strengthens the foundations of a lasting partnership for a modern and efficient military force, responding to national and regional security challenges. Thumbnail image : On the left Major Joseph Callaway, in the Center Minister Jean Michel Moise, on the right American Ambassador Dennis B. Hankins HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : Late President Carter worked for the Haitian people Jimmy Carter, born October 1st, 1924 in Plains (State of Georgia) was President of the United States from January 20, 1977 to January 1981. He died at the age of 100, on December 29, 2024 in the same city. In a note, the American Embassy recalls Carter's relations with Haiti : "James Earl 'Jimmy' Carter Jr., the 39th U.S. President, dedicated his life to peace, democracy, and human rights. Known for his compassion and integrity, he brokered historic peace deals, championed global health, and fought for justice. During his White House tenure from 1977 to 1981, President Carter pressured autocrats like Jean-Claude 'Baby Doc' Duvalier to relinquish power and free political prisoners. His efforts led to the release of several unjustly detained political prisoners, including Professor Jean-Claude Exulien. President Carter worked on behalf of the Haitian people long after the end of his presidency. In 1990, he travelled to Haiti at the invitation of Provisional President Ertha Pascal-Trouillot to witness Haitis first free and fair election. Despite delays and difficulties, enthusiastic Haitians turned out in record numbers to mark the end of the Duvalier dictatorship and exercise their right to vote. Later in life, President Carter helped build homes with Habitat for Humanity in Leogane, Haiti, in support of survivors of the 2010 earthquake. As President Carter once said, 'Our greatest blessings come when we improve the lives of others.' His life was a testament to this belief, inspiring us all to serve and uplift one another." HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : CARICOM awaits Haitian proposals to resolve CPT internal crisis Two days before the end of this year, the political actors concerned by the internal crisis of the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), continued discussions without reaching an agreement on the future of the CPT. The Eminent Personalities of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) will therefore have to wait until the new year to receive from Haiti a proposal to resolve the internal crisis that the CPT is currently experiencing. It should be recalled that the eminent personalities of Caricom were in Haiti two weeks ago to initiate dialogue towards a resolution of the CPT crisis. After their departure, a few meetings were held in Haiti, but there are still more sectors to consult to discuss this issue. The groups that have already done so are considering creating a Commission to work on the proposals requested by Caricom. The consultations conducted so far have had points of consensus and divergence, some suggest that to reach a serious proposal, it is necessary to marginalize the presidential advisers Louis Gerald, Smith Augustin and Emmanuel Vertilaire, accused in the BNC corruption case https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-43336-haiti-flash-the-ulcc-in-the-bnc-case-requests-criminal-actions-against-3-transitional-advisors-report.html , because they represent a threat to the political future of the Transition. Others suggest the need to reconfigure the CPT and the formation of a national backup government. Even if the sectors almost unanimously agree that the accused presidential advisers represent an obstacle to the proper functioning of the CPT, it remains to be determined how to dismiss them, replace them and also how to keep alive the transition responsible for preparing the ground for the general elections. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : The Minister for Women's Affairs, assessment visit to the Ministry's central office Pedrica Saint-Jean, the Minister for the Status of Women, accompanied by Marie Denise Claude, her Chief of Staff, Sandy Francois, Director General of the Ministry, and several senior executives, conducted an assessment visit to the Ministry's central office on Avenue Magny (Champ-de-Mars). The Minister toured the facilities to learn about the state of each Directorate/Unit in particular and to get an idea of the overall situation. During this visit, she did not hide her joy at meeting the middle managers and support staff who play an important role in the smooth running of the Ministry. During these discussions with the staff, Minister Saint-Jean said she took good note of the situation, which she believes is not conducive to the smooth running of the Ministry. Consequently, she plans to do everything possible to rehabilitate the physical space and promote better working conditions in order to obtain better results. To this end, the Minister invited the entire team to join her in making the Ministry an institution that reflects the achievements of the struggle of Haitian women. She placed great emphasis on the collaboration of each Unit and Directorate and each employee to achieve the objectives set. At the end of this meeting, which clearly reflects her desire to move forward with all employees, the Minister announced surprises for the end-of-year celebrations and promised to continue the dialogue at the beginning of 2025. Let's recall that Minister Pedrica Saint-Jean already held a meeting immediately after her installation last November, with all the Directors and Coordinators of the various Directorates and Units within the institution, not only with the idea of getting to know them better but also with a view to having a precise idea of the administrative situation of each entity. HL/ HaitiLibre It will be quite a while before iOS 19 is unveiled. If Apple sticks to its usual schedule, this will be the case in the summer of , probably in early June 2025, when the company holds its next (presumably again mainly virtual) World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC). Nevertheless, there is already credible information about which iPhones are likely to be supported by the new operating system. The good news: apparently nothing will change in terms of support. This means that all devices already running iOS 18 will also receive iOS 19. At least that's according to sources from the French Apple blog iPhoneSoft.fr, who allegedly got their information from Apple itself. Anzeige Which models will run iOS 19 According to this, iOS 19 support is already starting with the iPhone XR, XS and XS Max, which were released in fall 2018. All SE models from generation 2 of 2022 onwards will run iOS 19. In addition, iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and, of course, 16, each in the standard, mini (12, 13), Pro, Pro Max and Plus (14, 15, 16) versions. Apple would thus once again be giving numerous users of older devices access to the latest operating system. As usual, however, it is to be expected that not all functions will be available for all devices. This applies not only to Apple Intelligence, which is only available from iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. If Apple sticks to its usual routine, a developer beta of iOS 19 will be released first in June, followed by a public beta a few weeks later. The final release is expected in fall usually in September. This is also when the iPhone 17 is likely to be launched in four variants, which could be particularly interesting this year. Work allegedly delayed Not much has been leaked about the specific innovations in iOS 19. It seems clear that Apple is planning major changes to the Siri voice assistant, which can no longer be implemented with iOS 18. However, there could be delays overall. The well-known Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman claimed in mid-December that he had heard that Apple had fallen behind in terms of the start of development for iOS 19 due to the AI functions in iOS 18. "I keep hearing that the gradual rollout of features from iOS 18 to iOS 18.4 is causing delays in some features planned for iOS 19." This will also lead to a slower rollout of features in the next operating system cycle. "Apple engineers have to work on iOS 18 projects even though they would normally already be working on the next operating system." It is therefore conceivable that iOS 19 will also only receive new features gradually until iOS 19.3 or even 19.4, for example. Anzeige Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden (bsc) Minister of Education Anders Adlercreutz (SFP) on Monday unveiled a government bill that would ban the use of such devices in the classroom unless the teacher or headmaster has specifically granted permission for using the devices for learning. FINLAND is set to restrict the use of smartphones and other mobile devices in schools. Exemptions, he added, can be granted for medical and pupil-specific reasons. The bill is set to grant teachers and headmasters the right to take away mobile devices from pupils who use them in a way that disturbs learning. Schools, meanwhile, will be able to determine in their codes of conduct how to deal with mobile devices at recess and lunch breaks, as well as where the devices are kept during the schoolday. Itll be possible to ban phones for the entire schoolday. Personally I naturally hope that schools take advantage of this opportunity, said Adlercreutz. He underlined that the bill should not be misconstrued as an indication that the government is downplaying the importance of digital skills, with digital literacy still considered a key skill for pupils. A number of advocacies for disabled people drew attention to the needs of disabled pupils during the public consultation period for the bill. Inclusion Finland (KVTL), for example, reminded that mobile devices can be important communication and learning tools for pupils with autism or intellectual disabilities. Adlercreutz described the ban as an attempt to ensure pupils can learn without disturbances and to combat widening disparities between schools. Presently the approach to smartphones varies from school to school, he reminded. Discussions with ministers indicate that some consider the situation highly problematic, whereas others have discovered effective ways to reduce smartphone use also within the bounds of the existing legislation. Many cities, for example, have adopted their own practices toward smartphone use in schools. Outi Salo, the head of basic education at the City of Helsinki, told STT in August that most schools in the city added a ban on smartphone use to their code of conduct last spring. In Tampere, similarly, most schools have opted to ban smartphone use, said Kristiina Jarvela, the head of basic education at the City of Tampere. Adlercreutz on Monday also expressed his delight with the support the bill garnered across parliamentary parties. A political unanimity within the government was found rather quickly, and Ive been pleased that also the opposition seemed to be supportive of this, he commented to reporters. The government will next present the bill to parliament with a view to implementing the legislative reform in August 2025. The bill would also introduce a provision to the basic education act that enables regional state administrative agencies to investigate at their own discretion whether schools have organised teaching in accordance with law. Another amendment is that a lifestyle that includes physical activity is introduced as an objective of basic education in an attempt to promote physical activity during the schoolday. Aleksi Teivainen HT Ljungberg on Monday stated to Helsingin Sanomat that members of the crew have been fed insufficiently, been disallowed from sleep and been interrogated without the presence of legal representation. A SUPERINTENDENT at Helsinki Police Department has denied claims made by Herman Ljungberg , the legal representative of the shipping company that operates Eagle S, Caravella, in an interview with Helsingin Sanomat. A crew member said in a text message obtained by the newspaper that they are stressed and tired due to the circumstances. Superintendent Heikki Porola from Helsinki Police Department stated to the newspaper that both the interrogations and the pre-trial investigation on the whole have been conducted in accordance with regulations by the National Bureau of Investigation (KRP). Persons of interest, he added, can decide for themselves what kind of counsel they bring to the interrogation, with authorities obligated to offer the opportunity for legal counsel. He reminded that if the tanker was not held outside Porvoo, Southern Finland, it would be sailing on the Baltic Sea. The vessel does have supplies and food. If they need anything else, well naturally take care of it. Of course we arent leaving people without something to eat, he assured, adding that the shipping company and captain are responsible for looking after the crew. We dont know how the captain has prepared [for the journey] and what kind of service the vessel has had. Porola told that a larger group of people was in the mess of the vessel as investigators examined the vessel but denied that authorities have prevented the crew from sleeping. No one has tried to keep them awake, he stressed. He also reminded that because the vessel was at sea, the captain is responsible for making sure the crew is sufficiently large. If the shipping company doesnt rotate the crew, the crew will stay where they are. Elina Katajamaki, a detective chief inspector at KRP, told Helsingin Sanomat on Monday that KRP has yet to make any arrests or issue detention requests in the pre-trial investigation. Eagle S is suspected of damaging a transmission link between Finland and Estonia, Estlink 2, on 25 December. Investigators have thus far discovered drag marks that stretch dozens if not almost a hundred kilometres on the seabed and determined that the marks were caused by the tankers anchor. KRP is investigating the incident as aggravated criminal mischief and aggravated interference with communications. Finnish Customs, in turn, has opened a provisional inquiry into a suspected regulation offence given the vessels role in the shadow fleet of Russia, a fleet of ships that have enabled the country to transport embargoed oil products and circumvent oil price caps. KRP on Monday communicated that it is examining material obtained from equipment it has seized related to the journey of the vessel. Aleksi Teivainen HT House leaders praise Edwards for guiding disaster bill to passage U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards and congressional delegation hear from volunteers on rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Helene. Congressional leaders are praising the work of U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards for guiding a $110 billion in disaster supplemental funding bill through the House to help states rebuild from Hurricane Helene and other disasters. Related Stories From the moment Hurricane Helene made landfall, Representative Chuck Edwards has been hard at work ensuring that Western North Carolinians are not forgotten," Speaker Mike Johnson in a news release. "When Chuck invited me to tour the site of the devastation with him in October, we made a promise that the federal government would do its part to help the families and businesses devastated by the storm, and with the passage of the American Relief Act, we have delivered on that promise. Rep. Edwards was key to getting that critical disaster relief aid across the finish line, and few Members of Congress have ever championed the cause of their constituents as effectively as he has. As the only co-sponsor of the legislation, Edwards drafted the bill as a member of the House Appropriations Committee. Given that supplemental disaster funding falls under that committees jurisdiction, it is customary that the chair of the committee be the lead sponsor. The committee only rarely names a co-sponsor for such bills. Congressman Chuck Edwards set a precedent of being the singular cosponsor on a disaster relief package that aids multiple states," said Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole of Oklahoma. "He used his role as a member of the House Appropriations Committee and experience he gained from nine weeks on the front line of the disaster response to take a lead role in drafting the disaster supplemental package for the American Relief Act. I walked alongside Congressman Edwards in North Carolina and saw the wreckage that decimated communities and left families overwhelmed by loss. His leadership and steadfast advocacy secured critical disaster aid for his constituents and Americans across this nation. As a lifelong resident of Western North Carolina, Edwards brought a unique understanding of the challenges residents there are facing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. While the legislative process was one with many twists and turns, I am proud that in the end, members from both parties were able to come together and keep the funding package fully intact, he said. The American Relief Act of 2024 will bring several billions of dollars of funding from various federal agencies to Western North Carolina. This includes the resumption of Small Business Administration disaster loans, repair funds for damaged federal highways, Economic Adjustment Assistance funding for economic recovery, and funding for agriculture assistance and the U.S. Forest Service. The road to recovery will be long, and Helenes impact will be felt for generations. But the people of Western North Carolina are resilient fighters, and we now have the funding infrastructure in place to better aid in the healing process, Edwards added. Pardee to add adolescent behavioral health facility at main campus Addressing an urgent need, UNC Health Pardee in Hendersonville plans to invest $30 million to establish a 33-bed inpatient adolescent behavioral health facility in 40,000 square feet of renovated space opening a year from now, the hospital announced Monday. Related Stories The much-needed facility, made possible through a partnership with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), Vaya Health, and the UNC School of Medicine, is projected to open in January 2026. Behavioral health is one of the most urgent challenges facing our youth today, said Jay Kirby, president and CEO of UNC Health Pardee. Providing much-needed space and services to address the lack of inpatient adolescent behavioral health services is a responsibility that we do not take lightly. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to meet this need in such a significant way. Pardee officials note that the addition of this facility will not only meet the behavioral health services needs in western North Carolina but across the state by lessening pressure on already stressed health systems. According to NCDHHS, children and adolescents grappling with mental health conditions often face long wait times for admission to specialized facilities, exacerbating their symptoms, and impeding their recovery process. Community Health Assessment data showed a 25% increase in mental health-related emergency room visits in western North Carolina over the past five years. These challenges are echoed in Henderson County, with mental health identified as a top priority year over year since 2003 by the Henderson County Partnership for Health. This will bring critical services to children and youth in western North Carolina where Hurricane Helene exacerbated the growing need for mental health care, said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. Together with UNC Health, we are able to move faster to stand up services urgently needed so children can get the care that is right for them in the most appropriate setting. Officials with UNC Health Pardee note that the renovated space within Pardee Hospital will provide a healing environment designed to support the unique needs of adolescents aged 12 to 17, and requiring inpatient behavioral health care. The renovation is rooted in evidence-based principles to promote recovery and resilience and will offer a safe and nurturing environment for patients including comfortable patient rooms and spaces for therapy, recreation, and education. Opening adolescent psychiatric services within our community hospital in partnership with UNC Health is a critical step toward providing comprehensive and accessible care to some of our most vulnerable populations, said Bridget Fluech, RN, Nursing Director of Psychiatric & Addictions Therapeutic Healing Services (PATHS) at UNC Health Pardee. By creating an environment where adolescents can receive immediate, specialized support, we not only address their individual needs but also enhance the mental health resilience of the entire community. Fluech explained that for patients, this means timely intervention and a pathway to recovery in a familiar, less stigmatized setting. For the community, it creates a safer, more supportive environment for young people to heal, grow, and thrive. It also strengthens Pardees commitment to holistic care, expands service offerings, and fosters stronger partnerships with local schools, families, and mental health professionals. Partnering with the UNC School of Medicine, Pardee will benefit from leading-edge research and academic expertise in the delivery of care in this new facility, ensuring patients receive patient-centered treatments and therapies in adolescent behavioral health care. These include telehealth and virtual therapy, digital therapeutics and mental health apps including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and peer support programs. The partnership also provides training opportunities for the next generation of healthcare professionals, further bolstering the regions healthcare landscape. Improving behavioral health for younger patients is a top priority for UNC Health because we recognize that its a major issue across North Carolina and the country, said Dr. Samantha Meltzer-Brody, Chair of UNCs Department of Psychiatry. The partnership between UNC Health Pardee and the UNC School of Medicine represents the best of academic medicine and community health care. We continue to explore ways to expand this level of much-needed care across the state. The UNC Health Pardee project follows the opening of the UNC system's Youth Behavioral Health, a 54-bed inpatient facility in Butner, N.C. Also a partnership with NCDHHS, the Eastern North Carolina facility provides acute hospital care for children and teens in psychiatric crises. It offers a first-of-its-kind model of mental health care for children and teens, led by a team of more than 200 providers from UNC Health. Bounty of Bethlehem 'makes Christmas special' for hundreds The 41st Annual Bounty of Bethlehem Community Christmas Day Dinner served around 2,000 meals, continuing its tradition of ensuring no one is alone on Christmas Day and once the extraordinary generosity and unity of Henderson County. Related Stories Held at The Salvation Army on Third Avenue East, the event was made possible through broad community support, including 575 volunteers working more than 1,700 hours during Christmas week. Their efforts ensured every guestwhether dining in, picking up to-go meals, or receiving deliveriesenjoyed a delicious, freshly prepared meal and the warmth of holiday fellowship, said Annamarie Jakubielski, Director of Bounty of Bethlehem. As part of its tradition, event volunteers also strive to ensure that on-duty civil servants receive a hot meal as well. For many, the event represents more than a meal. It celebrates community spirit and kindness. Local resident Spring Hope Dungan expressed her gratitude, saying, Wow!!! Thank you so much to all the volunteers! This event means so much to so many! It makes me extra proud to be a Hendo person! The Bounty of Bethlehem team also reflected on the events deeper impact this year following the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene. This year, we saw an even greater need for connection and support, Jakubielski said. Seeing so many people come together to give and serve reminds us of the strength and compassion that defines Henderson County. Of her experience as a volunteer with the event, Lesley King said, This event makes my Christmas special. Thank you for continuing the tradition and letting me know how to help. Like other long-time volunteers, King has supported the event for several years, making the drive to Hendersonville from Mars Hill to lend a hand and spread holiday cheer. A COUNCIL has become the first local authority in the UK to set a target of going beyond net zero. Oxfordshire County Council is to extend the current carbon neutral target for its own estate and move into carbon dioxide removal. Its cabinet agreed on Tuesday last week to support recommendations to rapidly scale the market for carbon dioxide removal. The council will also work with partners to look at ways at benefiting rural economies and support adaptation to an already changing climate. Methods of securing negative emissions most applicable to Oxfordshire include planting trees to absorb carbon dioxide, using biochar to enhance soil to store carbon and increase flood resilience. The council has taken specialist advice on its strategy from Prof Steve Smith, Arnell Associate Professor of greenhouse gas removal at the University of Oxfords Smith School of Enterprise and Environment. Prof Smith said: The market for carbon dioxide removal technologies is at an early stage and so this initiative by the council will help kickstart development. Councillor Dr Pete Sudbury, deputy leader of the council, said: Even when the UK signed up for net zero in 2019, we knew that wouldn't be enough. Since then, things have got a lot worse, as we can see almost every day on screens or in our real lives. The uncomfortable reality is that negative emissions actively removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere are the last throw of the dice, as we struggle to control the escalating damage from extreme weather, but the supply chains arent growing nearly fast enough. Alongside aggressive action to end the burning of fossil fuels, building those supply chains in time is a do not fail and starting now with small investments makes a big difference in the next 10 years. A WILDLIFE photographer waited three weeks to capture a family of barn owls on camera. Simon Booker, 61, received a tip off from villagers in Goring to the whereabouts of the nesting place, which was in a private barn near Icknield Road. They had recognised the shrill pitch made by the apex predators, which are a protected species. Mr Booker, who lives in South Stoke, said the owls can be difficult to get close to and photograph. He said: You just ride your luck. Id been watching them for about three weeks on and off and barn owls are tricky because theyre usually only around at 5am or they come out at 9pm, depending on the time of year. I decided to turn up and the owners of the land were okay with me coming at the crack of dawn and at dusk. Owls are active at dusk and as soon as it gets light again and thats when they disappear and take flight. In the evening, you have the opposite problem, so they might have a look out at about 9pm. There was a window in this barn and I just had to wait for them to stick their head out, which they didnt often do until dusk. Photographically, that then becomes a really big challenge because youve got no light and the pictures are grainy. It just so happened that when I went there it was quite early, so it was in good light. I was in a hide and that camera Ive got takes 20 frames a second, so I rattled off a few pictures at a very slow shutter speed. It was still quite challenging but when I got home and put them on the computer, I found that a couple of them were really sharp. It took a while but, with persistence, you can get there. Mr Booker, who is married with three children, works in sales management but has been photographing wildlife in his spare time for about six years. He said: With my day job, I know my way around the software tools. You can fix some of the pixelation in the images a bit so you can make the best of what youve got. I took a photo I was really proud of three years ago of some hares and this one of a barn owl is right up there. This one is unique because its very good quality and its looking right at me. The details of the eyes are amazing. You cant go near their nest because they are on a red list. There's a huge fine if you do, so I kept my distance. I was about 30 yards away from the barn. You don't want to disturb them. He hopes to enter the photo for the Countryfile calendar next year and potentially the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Mr Booker typically shoots in the countryside in the three-mile radius to where he lives, so he regularly photographs in Goring and Woodcote. He uses a pop-up hide and camouflage jacket to take pictures of wildlife without being seen and describes the successes of getting the perfect shot as giving him a surge of energy. When you get the opportunity, you suddenly get that sweaty palm moment, he said. You dont want to screw it up because youve got the chance to get a really good picture. As soon as youre sitting there in decent light and an animal or bird appears, you think, Wow, great. You get this momentary connection when an owl looks straight at you because theyve got a piercing set of eyes. You think if the picture comes out, its going to be really good. I took a picture of an otter once in the same kind of circumstances. You almost just want to pack up and run home because you cant wait to go to the computer and see if its as good as you thought it was going to be. The knack is passion because you have to have that passion to get out of bed at silly oclock and go and do it. You also need perseverance because youve got to sit there for hours waiting for the 10 seconds you get with an owl to be able to capture it and its the same as with an owl or an otter or the animal youre trying to capture. Ive invested to a point where Ive got some good quality kit but you have to know how to use it and that comes down to practice. When the owl appears out of the window for 10 or 20 seconds, I know Im going to get the picture because I know my settings. I know how to do it and Im ready to go. Mr Booker, who suffered a stroke in May two years ago, had been previously diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat. He said: I had to find a way to slow down a bit and take in the wildlife and nature surrounding us. Theres lots of historical, mythical things surrounding barn owls about the fact they bring good luck and things like that. If you watch a barn owl hunting, theyre just very beautiful because they float and theyre absolutely silent so there's a certain grace about them that a lot of other creatures don't have. Theyre very graceful and technically theyre very good at what they do as well. Mr Booker has talked about his journey through photography for the Womens Institute, including the Goring branch, and he is now an official speaker for the Oxfordshire Womens Institute and has been booked about 20 times. He has also made a charity calendar for the sixth year running, titled Dare to Dream, and it focuses on birds and animals. He hopes to sell about 200 copies, which will raise money for the Stroke Association. In addition to pictures of barn owls, the calendar features a roe deer in a wheat field near Steventon, a robin taken at Warburg Nature Reserve in Bix, a yellow wagtail in Goring and a pheasant in Woodcote. He also shot at locations including the Hebrides in Scotland to photograph a white-tailed eagle and a sanderling, a small wading bird. Mr Booker said: I called it Dare to Dream because the January picture is a white-tailed eagle and to capture that was one of my dreams. Its slightly bigger and taller than a golden eagle. I went up to the Hebrides and got myself a tour and went on a boat trip and they knew where a couple were nesting. I got in the boat and I managed to get a picture of one fishing. It was a picture I had in my head and I really wanted to get a particular shot with the talons outstretched to grab a fish and I managed to get one which is an amazing, amazing moment. I never expected to be able to witness this in the flesh. I went to the beach and I laid down and waited for an hour until I could get a good picture and as it happened, there was one that appeared on the beach that I managed to get a photo of. I waited by the breakers watching flocks of dunlins scamper up and down. That was a really special moment. Mr Booker chose the pictures for the calendar based on variety, quality and the reaction some have received on social media. He said: I try to just get a set of images that are a bit different so they are a nice sequence because people are going to look at them each month. I mix up the ones that I really like with the ones that I know resonate with people based on Instagram and Facebook and then I end up with about 20 and then I whittle them down. He has raised more than 2,000 to support the Stroke Association so far and hopes to make another 500 through sales of his calendar. Mr Booker said: I was selling them at some of these Womens Institute talks and a lot of the ladies have bought them and it has really grown this year quite dramatically. Every time I do a talk, I take a percentage of everything I make and I give that to the Stroke Association. He recently visited Goring Primary School to tell the children aged four to 10 about the inspiration behind his photographs and how he captures them. Mr Booker, who owns Stokerpix, said: The kids loved it. They really enjoyed it, especially when you put camouflage gear on, they thought it was hilarious. The teacher sent me a WhatsApp a few days ago and one of the kids came to a show and share and said, Im a photographer, Simon Booker inspired me and that was the best moment of the whole year. To think that some of the stuff I come out with actually inspires little kids to take pictures was just amazing. A Dare to Dream calendar costs 14, with 2.50 from each sale donated to the Stroke Association, from tinyurl.com/3tphz5hd CAMPAIGNERS have criticised a rise in water bills which they say is unlikely to solve the problem of sewage being discharged into the River Thames in Henley. Industry regulator Ofwat has approved an increase of 35 per cent over the next five years, which it says will reduce spills and pay for supply upgrades. Customers of Thames Water can expect their average bills to rise by about 31 a year, taking annual bills from 436 to 588 by 2030. The increase, which comes into force from April, is higher than the 23 per cent hike in bills the regulator had proposed in July but is lower than the 59 per cent that had been requested by the firm. Ofwat has said the change would raise about 104 billion to accelerate the delivery of cleaner rivers and seas and secure long-term drinking water supplies for customers. Thames Water is struggling under a 15bn pile of debt and campaigners do not believe higher bills will deliver the change that is necessary. Laura Reineke, a clean water campaigner and member of open water swimming group the Henley Mermaids, said: It has to stop. Nothing will change if nothing changes. The one single thing that every living thing needs on this Earth should not be privately owned. The money will go into the sinking pit that Thames Water has built up since privatisation. It is a failed experiment and it needs to stop now. Why should we bail them out when we have already paid for them to do the job that they havent done? Why should I pay for something thats not being done? We just want to see the river clean, healthy and fit for wildlife and humans, which is what it should be. Every other country in Europe has lovely clean rivers that you can swim in that have bathing water and are full of wildlife and we have a turbid brown river. Ms Reineke also hit out at company bosses receiving bonuses worth 770,000, adding: We do not need to be paying big bosses big money to do a job that theyre not doing properly. We pay them to dispose of our sewage environmentally correctly and we pay for them to have clean water coming out of our taps, neither of which they are capable of, and they have proved that over and over again. Between January 2020 and November 2023, Thames Water pumped at least 72 billion litres of sewage into the river. This figure does not include illegal discharges, known as dry spills, when sewage is released when there is no rain. On July 3, semi-finals day at Henley Royal Regatta, sewage was discharged into the Thames at Fawley Meadows, near the Henley sewage treatment works, for two hours. Henley Town Council has passed a motion of no confidence in Thames Water and Oxfordshire County Council and South Oxfordshire District Council have also followed suit. Jo Robb, the district councils river champion and a Green Party member, said the only way to fix the problem is to renationalise the water system. Councillor Robb said: I think customers and bill payers around the country will quite rightly be angry because what Ofwat has effectively demanded of us is that we pay a second time for a service we should have already received. This lays bare the failure of and the total scam that is privatisation. It also exposes the failure of the regulators to stand up against big business money and the water industry. I dont feel assured by the bill rise at all. Ofwat will continue to side with the water industry over the interests of people and customers, so Im not confident that this money will deliver investment. We have already been burned by the water industry once, bearing in mind we dont have any choice of water company. Cllr Robb said the Water (Special Measures) Bill, set out by the Government to put failing water companies under tough special measures, fails to deal with the root cause of the problem. She said: This bill rise is a bill-payer bailout of Thames Water. The government said it will not be bailing out the privatised water industry but thats exactly whats happening. I think its high time the government stepped in to protect them and put the company into special administration because the longer this drags out, the more expensive and damaging it will be. Henley MP Freddie van Mierlo said: Its outrageous that Thames Water is trying to pay its debts off the back of ordinary bill payers. It shouldnt be allowed to service the debt which went to its shareholders on the basis of just charging ordinary people more money. Fundamentally, I think the system is broken and we need a new regulator. Ofwat isnt strong enough and the special measures bill doesnt give them the strength and powers we would like to see. It has admitted that it should never have allowed Thames Water to build up such a massive debt pile and they cant really be trusted to regulate the industry properly. David Black, the chief executive of Ofwat, described the bill increases as game-changing. He said: The Thames bill increase is in line with the sector average. Investment is increasing fourfold, for a bill increase of 31 per year, every year over the next five years. Thats a game-changing level of investment, thats what we need to see to address the issues that the public is so rightly angry about. Nonetheless, we certainly understand that this is going to be very difficult news for customers, which is why were also pleased that these companies will double all support available for customers. We will continue to take enforcement action against companies where they fall short and hope the environmental regulators do the same. Last month, campaigners from Henley joined thousands of other activists to call for tougher action on keeping the UKs rivers and seas clean. They were part of a coalition of more than 130 nature, environmental and water-sport organisations who marched in London. In October, Thames Water, which serves 16 million customers across London and the Thames Valley, received a cash lifeline from its creditors, securing a loan of 3bn, following fears it would run out of funding before Christmas. The new debt package means it will be funded until October 2025. Thames Water has said that it has clear and deliverable plans to increase treatment capacity and reduce the number of storm discharges including at its Henley treatment works. MORE than 30 swimmers swam up to 10km and raised 2,500 for charity. The ninth annual Swimathon, which is organised by Swim to Live founders Mike and Sophie Whitworth, took place at the Henley Leisure Centre on Wednesday last week. It was raising money for the Chiltern Centre, off Greys Road, which provides overnight and weekend care for young disabled adults and the event has raised money for it for the last five years. The turnout in the pool set a record for the event, with swimmers aiming to swim 100m 100 times with just a few seconds break between intervals, starting from 6pm. Swimmers were split between four lanes, depending on ability, with the fastest lane swimming one minute and 40 seconds for each 100m leg. The swimmer setting the pace then swapped after 500m. The fast lane completed the swim in two hours and 20 minutes, with the slowest lane, known as the happy lane, completing the swim in just under three hours. The last to complete the swim was 10-year-old Sophia Luijten, who was the youngest swimmer to finish the distance and finished just before 10pm. Her mother, Victoria, was one of several parents supporting from the sidelines and helping the swimmers count laps. She said that her daughter swims two to four times a week but that this will be the longest distance she has swum. The age of swimmers ranged from school-aged children to mature swimmers, with the oldest being Nigel Downing, 73, from Peppard Common. Twins Amber and Matthew OConnor, 16, who attend the Robert Piggott School in Wargrave, were among the youngest of the swimmers that took part. It was the first time the pair, who have lessons twice a week, had taken part on the event. Amber said: I thought it went quite well. I really enjoyed myself, Ive never done anything like that before but Im 100 per cent doing it next year. I was feeling a bit sore today. I didnt end up finishing 10km, but I did finish 5km, which I was really proud of and that took me about one hour and 50 minutes. My brother swam about the same distance. Matthew said: I think it was really enjoyable and it was definitely for a good cause so Im absolutely keen to do it again. Other swimmers included former Great Britain rower Matt McQuillan and former rower and elite triathlete Natasha Harris-White. Mr Whitworth said it was impressive seeing the younger participants completing the swim. He said: Sophia was just epic. We started at 6pm for her and she finished at 9.59pm, when they were just switching the lights off, as the pool closes at 10pm. Her mum was up there all the time but her grandparents got there to see her last couple of lengths. Mr Whitworth said that he and his wife Sophie got the idea from other swim clubs around the world which also complete the iconic challenge. He said: The first one I did was actually on the Gold Coast in Australia and we have started this swim group in Henley, which we have run for nine years now, so this was my 10th time doing it. Its an informal group of people who just enjoy swimming, although some take it quite seriously. There were lots of triathletes, outdoor swimmers and a few channel swimmers in there as well, who do a lot of iconic long-distance swims. Swimming is great because its a good recovery thing, its a good all-body workout. Going outdoors is brilliant, so I think it has grown since lockdown as well when people had to go and swim outdoors. So, its becoming a really fashionable sport again. We have linked with the Chiltern Centre for the past five years because I think to do it for a charity that is within half a mile of the pool just keeps it really local. Izzy Ansell, the marketing manager for the centre, said: We are so thrilled that Swim to Live has raised an incredible amount of money for us. It is amazing to see such a fantastic group of people joining forces and taking on this huge challenge for the centre. Thank you so much to Mike and his team. The support of our wonderful community keeps our doors open and makes a huge difference to the lives of the people we support. We are so grateful. Tuesday December 31, 2024 Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers from the 64th Battalion, 7th Brigade patrol through a recently secured area in Lower Shabelle during a joint operation against Al-Shabaab militants. Credit: SNA's 64th Battalion Mogadishu (HOL) Somali government forces struck multiple Al-Shabaab strongholds in the Lower Shabelle region on Tuesday.The offensive, led by the Somali National Army (SNA) 's 64th Battalion of the 7th Brigade under the 60th Division, was conducted alongside police units from the Wanlaweyn district. Over a dozen villages, including Aybuuley, Isgaad, Hoo Hook, Fulaaley, and Baladul Amiin, were targeted in what officials described as a decisive sweep aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab's logistical networks and reclaiming territory.While officials have not yet reported direct confrontations or casualties, officials stressed the element of surprise as a factor in the swift progress made by security forces. Local residents were urged to cooperate with authorities to solidify gains made during the offensive.The Lower Shabelle region, a longstanding bastion for Al-Shabaab, serves as a key strategic area for the militants, who use its remote villages to launch attacks across southern Somalia. The latest operation is part of the government's strategy to reclaim such territories, disrupt insurgent supply chains, and create conditions for humanitarian aid to reach affected populations.Somalia's federal government has intensified its military campaigns in recent months, with operations supported by local militias and international partners. Analysts suggest that efforts in regions like Lower Shabelle could prove pivotal in tipping the balance against Al-Shabaab, whose control over rural areas remains one of the greatest challenges to Somalia's stability. Key takeaways from Xi's diplomacy in 2024 Xinhua) 08:10, December 31, 2024 BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- As the year 2024 comes to a close, here are the key takeaways from Chinese President Xi Jinping's diplomacy throughout the year. Over the past year, Xi has engaged in extensive head-of-state diplomacy both at home and abroad, making four overseas visits to Europe, to Central Asia, for the BRICS Summit, and to Latin America, as well as holding over 130 talks and meetings with foreign dignitaries. He also attended the Conference Marking the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and made personal efforts to reach out to peoples of other countries. HEAD-OF-STATE DIPLOMACY Guided by head-of-state diplomacy, China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has expanded its international influence in 2024, with its vision of peaceful development and win-win cooperation gaining wider global recognition. Xi has demonstrated his strategic vision and strong leadership in maintaining close communication with leaders of other major countries. The China-Russia partnership saw continued high-level engagement. President Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met three times this year, enhancing bilateral comprehensive strategic coordination. Regarding China-U.S. relations, Xi met with President Joe Biden and sent congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump, providing strategic guidance for bilateral relations at pivotal moments. Xi's diplomatic initiatives with leaders of European countries, including France, Germany, Britain, Spain, and Italy, have focused on deepening strategic dialogue and fostering win-win cooperation. The meetings with leaders of regional major countries like India and Japan have aimed at building mutual trust and advocating peaceful coexistence. Throughout the year, Xi has focused on strengthening neighborly ties through close cooperation and interactions, such as making plans to usher in a "golden 30 years" of bilateral relations with Kazakhstan, and advancing a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in the new era with Tajikistan. A diplomatic breakthrough came in January this year when Nauru made the political decision to adhere to the one-China principle and restore diplomatic relations with China. Two months later, at Xi's invitation, Nauru's President David Adeang visited China. During the visit, Nauru agreed to participate in the joint development of the Belt and Road Initiative. Friendship, no matter it comes early or late, will usher in a bright future; and cooperation, regardless of scale, will be productive as long as it is sincere, Xi said during his talks with Adeang. MODERNIZATION FOR ALL The year 2024 saw China's unwavering commitment to embracing the world through high-level opening up, and the win-win cooperation has brought broad opportunities for other countries in their pursuit of modernization. Over the years, more than 100,000 freight trains have traveled between China and Europe. So far, 155 countries have joined the Belt and Road cooperation, and 54 countries now enjoy transit visa exemptions. This year also saw the arrival in Shanghai of the first batch of goods from the Peruvian port of Chancay, and the official commencement of construction on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project. In the face of rising unilateralism and protectionism, China remains committed to high-level opening up. Just as Xi noted, China is ready to share its development opportunities with other countries and promote the modernization of all countries that features peaceful development, mutually beneficial cooperation and common prosperity. China has lifted 800 million people out of absolute poverty, and met the poverty reduction target of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development ahead of schedule, thus contributing to the global efforts in poverty alleviation. "If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too," said Xi, highlighting that China's successful experience in poverty alleviation has resonated with other countries around the world. World leaders have praised China's remarkable achievements and its role in shaping global development. Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar stated that China's development serves as an example for other developing countries. Gambian President Adama Barrow emphasized that China represents hope and the future, and that deeper cooperation with China is key to national development. PROMOTING DEVELOPMENT OF GLOBAL SOUTH From Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Astana, to the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan and the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, China is playing an increasingly significant role in world affairs as a major country, and a leading role in the Global South. China has actively engaged in interactions with partners and friends from the Global South in 2024. Calling on the Global South to be the staunch force for peace, the core driving force for open development, the construction team of global governance, and the advocates for exchange among civilizations, Xi elaborated on the mission of the Global South, and offered a Chinese solution to addressing the global deficits in peace, development, governance and trust. Concrete efforts were also made to better support Global South cooperation. When addressing the Conference Marking the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in Beijing, Xi announced eight initiatives, covering such areas as personnel training, youth exchanges, economic development, free trade, agriculture, digital economy and green ecology. In September, Xi delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, announcing ten partnership actions for modernization to deepen China-Africa cooperation and spearhead the Global South modernization. "No matter how the international landscape evolves, we in China will always keep the Global South in our heart, and maintain our roots in the Global South," said Xi as he delivered an important speech at the "BRICS Plus" leaders' dialogue in Kazan, Russia. NEW CHAPTER IN BUILDING COMMUNITY WITH SHARED FUTURE During President Xi's visit to Brazil in November, the two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a "community with a shared future for a more just world and a more sustainable planet." From Latin America to the wider world, the effort to build a community with a shared future for mankind has gained significant momentum over the past year, with active participation from various parties. A notable example is the launch of the China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era this year, the first of its kind in China's relations with European countries. Also, the Beijing Summit of the FOCAC saw the announcement of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, embodying the common will of the 2.8 billion Chinese and African people to stand united through challenges. With the bigger picture of the future of mankind in mind, Xi stressed that at the historic moment when mankind has to choose between peace and war, prosperity and recession, unity and confrontation, "we must always strive tirelessly for the lofty goal of building a community with a shared future for mankind." China has worked actively for the restoration of peace and stability in hotspot areas. While maintaining an objective and just stance on the Ukraine crisis and actively promoting peace talks, China, working together with Brazil, issued six common understandings for a political resolution to the crisis, and brought other Global South countries together to launch the Group of Friends for Peace to gather consensus for finding a path to peace. Furthermore, on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, China has pushed for the adoption of the first resolution by the UN Security Council on a ceasefire in Gaza, and facilitated a reconciliation dialogue among Palestinian factions and the signing of the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity by 14 Palestinian factions. On many occasions, President Xi has advocated the concept of shared responsibility as dwellers of the same planet and noted that "countries are not riding on more than 190 small boats, but instead on a big boat with a common destiny." He called for solidarity, coordination and win-win cooperation as the overarching trend of the times. Under Xi's leadership, China is pooling global strength to advance the cause of peace and development, opening a new chapter in the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Xi extends condolences over passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Xinhua) 08:25, December 31, 2024 BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday extended condolences to his U.S. counterpart, Joe Biden, over the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, as well as in his own name, Xi expressed deep condolences over the passing of Carter and extended sincere sympathy to the Carter family. In his message, Xi called Carter a promoter and decision-maker in the establishment of China-U.S. diplomatic relations, noting that the late U.S. leader had long contributed to the development of bilateral ties, as well as the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Xi said that he deeply regrets the former president's passing. Noting that the China-U.S. relationship is one of the most important bilateral ties in the world, Xi said that China is ready to work with the U.S. side to focus on the fundamental interests of their people and meet the common expectations of the international community, and advance China-U.S. relations along the right track of sound, stable and sustainable development. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) A Belgrade court on Monday sentenced the parents of a 13-year-old boy to prison after he shot dead nine students and a security guard at an elementary school in Serbia's capital last year. The killings on May 3, 2023, deeply shocked the Balkan nation, where mass shootings have been rare despite high levels of gun ownership. The trial was conducted solely against the teenager's parents, Vladimir and Miljana Kecmanovic, as their son cannot be criminally prosecuted due to his age. Vladimir Kecmanovic was sentenced to 14 years and six months while Miljana Kecmanovic was jailed for three years, the Belgrade Higher Court said in a statement. "The accused, Vladimir Kecmanovic, was found guilty of committing the criminal offences of a grave offence against public safety and neglect and abuse of a minor. The accused, Miljana Kecmanovic, was found guilty of neglect and abuse of a minor," the court said. The mother, however, was acquitted on charges of the unauthorised production, possession, carrying or trafficking of weapons. The court also sentenced Nemanja Marinkovic, the instructor at the shooting range where, according to the indictment, Vladimir Kecmanovic, took his son for target practice, to one year and three months in prison. Both the prosecution and the defence have announced that they will exercise their right to appeal. Chief Public Prosecutor Nenad Stefanovic announced an appeal for harsher sentences for the father and the shooting instructor, as well as against the dismissal of part of the indictment against the mother. Lawyers for the parents and the shooting instructor also said they would appeal. Ognjen Bozovic, who legally represents the families of the murdered children, said that, from a legal standpoint, they are satisfied with the verdict, but there was no punishment that can bring justice or proper satisfaction to the families, as no one has been convicted for the massacre. Visibly shaken family members of the murdered children were present at the sentencing, and a group of students left flowers in front of the courthouse and stood in silence for 10 minutes to honour the victims. The mother of one of the murdered girls, Ninela Radicevic, said they expected the verdict but wanted accountability for the shooting itself. The parents of the young victims are currently pursuing five additional private civil lawsuits against the Kecmanovic family. The teenage shooter has been placed in a psychiatric institution and was brought out for the first time in October to testify in the case against his parents. Although the trial was held in a regular courthouse, the boy's testimony on October 8 was heard in a high-security courtroom typically reserved for cases involving organised crime and war crimes. The first-instance verdict against his parents was delivered publicly, though the 11-month trial was conducted behind closed doors. Afterwards, the court ordered the father to be returned to custody, where he has been held since shortly after the shootings, but the mother remains free until the verdict becomes final. Just days after the attack, Serbia was rocked by another mass shooting when a 21-year-old armed with an automatic rifle killed nine people about 60 kilometres (37 miles) south of Belgrade. Earlier this month, a court sentenced the attacker to 20 years in prison -- the maximum penalty given his age. The tragedies sparked anti-government protests last year, that brought together tens of thousands of people demanding the resignation of some officials and an end to the glorification of violence and mafia culture in the media. The government decided in September to designate May 3 and May 4 as Days of Remembrance for the victims of mass shootings. Germany's government said Monday US billionaire tech baron Elon Musk is trying to sway February elections by praising the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), a move strongly rejected by major parties. Musk -- a key supporter of US President-elect Donald Trump, and his incoming "efficiency czar" -- posted on his social media platform X this month that "only the AfD can save Germany". He then doubled down on the claim with an opinion piece in a German Sunday newspaper. On Monday, German government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann said that "it is a fact that Elon Musk is trying to exert influence on the parliamentary election". "In Germany, elections are decided by voters at the ballot box," she told a regular press conference, adding that the country's "elections are a matter for Germans". Europe' biggest economy will head to the polls on February 23 after the collapse of centre-left Chancellor Olaf Scholz's unruly coalition government last month. Hoffmann said that Musk "is free to express his opinion, but one doesn't have to share it". She recalled that various branches of the AfD have been labelled "extremist" by Germany's domestic security agency. Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD), told the Funke media group that Musk "is trying the same thing as Vladimir Putin", the Russian president. "They both want to influence our elections and support the AfD, which is hostile to democracy," he said, accusing both Musk and Putin of "wanting Germany to be weakened and pushed into chaos". Klingbeil said more action was needed on the European level to restrict the political power of big social media platforms such as X. Musk has repeatedly used X to attack Scholz personally, most recently in the wake of a deadly car-ramming attack on a Christmas market in the eastern city of Magdeburg on December 20. Musk called Scholz an "incompetent fool" and said he "should resign immediately". Musk's interventions in German politics have also been criticised by Scholz's main rival, the leader of the conservative opposition CDU/CSU, Friedrich Merz. Merz labelled Musk's AfD endorsement as "interfering and presumptuous" and said he could not remember "a comparable case of meddling in the election campaign of an allied country in the history of Western democracy". The AfD is in second place in the latest polls at 19 percent, behind the CDU/CSU opposition, which is at 32 percent. The SPD is headed for its worst-ever result at 16 percent while its Green coalition partners are polling at 13 percent. Festive Season Fuels Travel Boom in the UK: Christmas and New Year Getaways on the Rise - Image Credit ABTA Millions of people in the UK are expected to travel overseas during the Christmas and New Year period (20th December - 2nd January) Sunday, 22nd December, is forecasted to be the busiest day for departures, and Christmas Day is expected to be the quietest. ABTA predicts a surge in overseas travel during the festive season, particularly among families with young children. Popular destinations for those seeking winter sun include the Canary Islands, Southern Spain, Portugal, Turkey, and Dubai. Meanwhile, ski resorts in France, Austria, Switzerland, and Scandinavia are favored by those desiring a traditional snowy Christmas experience. Major airports are reporting high departure numbers, with Stansted, Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and Heathrow expecting hundreds of thousands of passengers. Scottish airports, especially Edinburgh, are also poised for a busy season. In addition to air travel, many people will cross the English Channel by ferry or through the Channel Tunnel. Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive, encourages travelers to plan and seek advice from ABTA members to ensure a smooth journey. ABTA provides additional travel tips and advice on its website. Capturing Hotel Demand at Scale: How Digital Marketing Automation is Shaping the Future of Hospitality - By Toni Marti - Image Credit DerbySoft With personalization now at the core of guest expectations, the ability to deliver targeted, timely marketing across multiple channels is the key to driving bookings. For hoteliers, the challenge is not just how to execute these strategies, but how to do so efficiently and at scale, while ensuring return on investment. In todays hyper-competitive hospitality landscape, hotels can no longer rely on a build it and they will come mindset. The hunger for travel is insatiable, but the demand for a hyper-personalized experience that starts long before a potential traveler clicks book now has hit an all-time high. In this market, loyalty must be earned not given, and digital marketing is not a luxury, its a necessity. As hotels face increased competition from both traditional rivals and alternative lodging options, like Airbnb, capturing demand at scale has become more important than ever but its also increasingly complex. What was once a straightforward task of promoting rooms and services has evolved into a sophisticated, data-driven effort to capture attention, appeal to individual guest preferences, and establish meaningful relationships. With personalization now at the core of guest expectations, the ability to deliver targeted, timely marketing across multiple channels is the key to driving bookings. For hoteliers, the challenge is not just how to execute these strategies, but how to do so efficiently and at scale, while ensuring return on investment. The Evolution of Digital Marketing in Hospitality The rise of the internet and the emergence of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) in the late 1990s reshaped how travelers searched for accommodations, and the emergence of digital-first marketing strategies quickly became inevitable. As digital touchpoints usher in new norms of convenience and personalization, attention has become a commodity, and hotels must meet prospective guests where they are (online) if they hope to capture their interest. After all, travelers begin their planning journey via multiple online sources, from social media inspiration to online research and reviews, long before they ever finalize the details of their next trip. To this effect, research from Expedia revealed that travelers spend an average of 303 minutes, or over 5 hours, engaging with travel content in the 45 days leading up to a booking decision. Moreover, that research found that travelers utilize an increasingly diverse range of online resources during their planning process, including: 80% of travelers rely on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) 61% turn to search engines 58% use social media for inspiration 54% visit airline websites 51% explore meta travel websites The digital landscape is vast but it can also make for a fragmented journey, and travelers embark on an extensive period of research while considering their next destination. With this in mind, hotels must establish a strong online presence to connect with guests at each point in their pre-booking journey, by focusing on owned, earned and paid digital channels. The Best of Both Worlds: Direct Bookings and OTAs The tug-of-war between hospitality brands and OTAs is not new, and it wont end anytime soon. OTAs have been the fastest-growing distribution channel in the tours, activities, and attractions space over the past decade. Still, throughout the pandemic, travelers demonstrated a renewed preference for direct bookings. During recessionary periods, however, OTAs typically experience an uptick in performance as guests become more cost-conscious. Direct bookings allow hotels to capture more revenue per booking and establish direct relationships with guests, which provides opportunities for upselling and personalization that may otherwise be missed. At the same time, however, direct channels alone can limit a hotels reach, as OTAs have a global presence and extensive marketing budgets. Through OTAs, hotels can reach guests who might not otherwise consider their property. Hotels should always employ tactics to increase direct bookings; however, they should also strike a balance between OTAs and direct bookings by leveraging OTAs as an entry point to reach a broader audience, capturing first-time guests who may later be converted into loyal, direct bookers. By promoting direct booking benefits, such as exclusive discounts or tailored packages, hotels can encourage repeat guests for future stays, thus cultivating stronger, more personalized relationships. When hotels establish a healthy balance between both channels, they can preserve their brand identity, maintain control of guest data, and ultimately drive more sustainable revenue growth across all booking platforms. How Technology Empowers Hotels to Scale and Optimize Digital Marketing Fortunately, the embrace of digital-first marketing strategies allows hotels to collect valuable guest data, enabling a far more impactful and scalable result than traditional, one-size-fits-all campaigns of the past. After all, expanding marketing reach across diverse markets, languages, and cultural nuances while ensuring that campaigns remain relevant and personalized is no small task. This process requires sophisticated data integration and tech-enabled automation, where guest preferences, booking behaviors, and regional trends are all captured, interpreted, and automatically leveraged to tailor marketing messages. Notably, digital marketing technology has become more cost effective and measurable than legacy methods, largely due to its iterative design. Digital campaigns can be tracked and adjusted in real time, allowing hotels to pull in guest data from various touchpoints, optimize their marketing spend, and improve return on investment (ROI). Unlike the spray and pray tactics of the past, a dedicated digital marketing platform offers A/B testing, audience segmentation, and budget allocation to achieve better, measurable outcomes.Whats more, hotels can accelerate (and automate) the deployment of promotions across multiple channels, without the need for tedious, individual reviews across disconnected platforms. Using a centralized system, designed specifically for marketing to travelers, hotels can ensure consistent messaging across all channels, while eliminating inefficient and repetitive workflows. As the saying goes you cant manage what you cant measure, and the use of digital marketing technology unlocks deeper insights, providing hotels with customizable, automated reports. These performance summaries provide hotels with a roadmap to refine their strategies, improve bookings, and build stronger guest loyalty. It should come as no surprise, then, that research from the HotelTechReport revealed that 81% of hoteliers believe its very likely that technology will be more important for the success of a hotel business in the next five years. In todays fast-paced, data-driven world, hotels that fail to embrace digital marketing automation risk being left behind. By leveraging powerful digital marketing platforms, hotels can seamlessly navigate the otherwise complex world of modern guest expectations, efficiently manage multi-channel campaigns, and strike the right balance between direct bookings and OTA visibility. With the right digital marketing automation platform, hotels will not only drive demand at scale they will also foster meaningful, lasting relationships with their guests while curating stronger brand identities. About the Author Toni Marti is a highly accomplished digital marketing and strategic management professional with a career spanning over a decade in the Travel, Hospitality, and Retail sectors. Since 2015, Toni has served as the Global Head of Channel Partnerships at DerbySoft, where he leads the development and management of strategic relationships with global channel partners. Connect with Tony on LinkedIn. About DerbySoft DerbySoft is the Travel Commerce Accelerator, with a mission to converge the diverse elements of travel, creating a unified and efficient ecosystem of connectivity services, high-performing AI-driven marketing services, and an end-to-end content platform. Our world-class services are designed to deliver seamless, frictionless commerce, accelerating the pace at which properties can connect, grow, and optimize profit. DerbySoft consistently pushes the boundaries of innovation to unlock new opportunities and accelerate travel commerce. Our team of travel industry experts is passionate about uniting people and technology and committed to enhancing every aspect of travel, making it more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for all. Our approach is centered on making travel better - not just for today, but for years to come. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, USA, DerbySoft's cutting-edge technology is trusted by the world's leading online travel distribution partners and hotel companies in 197 countries. To learn more, visit DerbySoft.com. $100 Million Downtown Hotel Project in Frederick, Maryland Gets Underway with Initial Demolition On Thursday, the City of Frederick marked a significant moment as officials commenced demolition at the site earmarked for the much-awaited Downtown Hotel and Conference Center. This $100 million project, resulting from public-private collaboration, is projected to create over 200 permanent jobs, enhance local tourism, and metamorphose downtown Frederick into a leading location for conferences and events. The preliminary demolition of the former Frederick News-Post press room is the first step towards constructing this central development along Carroll Creek Park. It represents an extension of the longstanding vision to invigorate Carroll Creek Park and bolster downtown Frederick as a thriving economic and tourist hotspot. County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, Gov. Wes Moore, and numerous state and local officials attended the event. Frederick's Mayor, Michael O'Connor, accentuated the project's significance and progression to this milestone. He stated that such a project required an extensive list of partners and optimal conditions. This endeavor signifies untapped possibilities for economic expansion, sustainable development, and the creation of opportunities for Frederick's families. It is expected to uplift the city, support local businesses, and inject vitality into downtown Frederick. Richard Griffin, the Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, underlined the project's historical importance, stating it fulfilled a vision central to the original master plan for rejuvenating Carroll Creek Park. He noted that leaders like George Dredden and former Mayor Ron Young recognized this project's transformative potential for Frederick. Griffin reiterated Dredden's sentiment from 2010 that Frederick required the project to generate jobs, expand the tax base, and cater to community needs. The day's event symbolized more than the physical demolition; it represented a breakthrough into a new epoch for Frederick. The project's realization required collaborative efforts from local and state officials, business leaders, and community advocates. The demolition will be restricted to the non-historic former press room building, while the historic trolley building is slated for a complete renovation, with plans to convert it into retail and office space. (Left to Right) Remedy Hall Volunteer Dan Bryant, Andi, Rebecca Guanzon, Carrie Greene (Pup-Rugby Bryant) -- "Everyone knows Rugby) they said. Community Hero of the Month: Remedy Hall Co-Founder Andi Bryant WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. Remedy Hall founder and board chair Andi Bryant is kicking off the new season of our Community Hero series, as the December Community Hero of the Month. The Community Hero of the Month is a 12-month series that honors individuals and organizations that have significantly impacted their community. This year's sponsor is Window World of Western Massachusetts. Bryant co-founded Remedy Hall in 2023 to lessen the financial burden of community members in need by providing essential items that people may be lacking, including hygiene items, cleaning supplies, clothing, bedding, furniture, and other necessities. In addition, they act as a "stopgap" to help guide people to resources that will provide additional support beyond the tangible items. "This is everything to me. My family will tell you they don't see me anymore. I spend probably way too much time here making sure that this is neat and clean and provide a compassionate, safe, dignified area for people with need," Bryant said. "I will have to say the heroes here are really the people that need the help. It takes a lot of courage for them to step forward, and walk in, and ask for help. And what we offer here is just a really safe, really non-judgmental, very dignified location for you to be able to do that." Remedy Hall's goal is to improve the lives of those facing economic and social challenges who have been exasperated by the effects of the pandemic and the rising cost of living, she said. "Since the pandemic, the cost of living has gone up. The cost of rent has gone up. People that were already strapped may have lost their jobs during COVID [and] are struggling just to find a balance and live their normal lives," Bryant said. "For us, what we can do is we can help with some of those things. We can help them with their hygiene items. We can help them with their bedding. We can help them with their winter coats and, cleaning supplies. And it would help in that regard, giving them a little bit more ability to pay their bills, keep in their apartments, [and] keep in their homes." The charitable organization now serves upwards of 320 households in Williamstown and North Adams, she said. "Remedy Hall started with an idea and blossomed into this production," the organization's co-founder Carrie Greene said. "I say production because Remedy Hall is more than the two rooms we have on the ground level of the First Congregational Church. It is really impacting individuals and families in ways that are incredibly meaningful and transformative to them." Remedy Hall board member Rebecca Guanzon echoed these remarks saying, "Remedy Hall is bigger than just a little nonprofit organization. It's a hope. It's an idea." Helping the community is personally important to Bryant as she comes from the demographic of the "struggling class." "This is stuff that I wish was available. When I was rearing my kids, I wish was available when I was young, and my parents were raising us," she said. "I am fourth generation here in Williamstown. It has been a struggle for generations in our house. We were always the worker bees and always the struggling class." Remedy Hall has also built trust with the transient community in the area, providing them support by supplying them with emergency kits that contain a number of essentials, including tents, sleeping bags, hygiene backpacks, and other essential items to help them survive. "If someone comes in and we know that they're homeless, they get top priority," Bryant said. Bryant's husband, Dan Bryant, a Remedy Hall volunteer, highlighted that several states have made homelessness illegal. The nonprofit Invisible People demonstrated this by referencing a report, "Housing Not Handcuffs," which said, "47 states had laws criminalizing homeless people engaging in life-sustaining activities." Invisible People is dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Dan said it doesn't matter how these people ended up where they are; they are still human. We are not here to judge them and tell them what they should have done. "People can change. People can improve their lives. Some of what we do gives them that opportunity, that extra help, to improve their life," he said. Remedy Hall tries to meet these high-demand needs as best they can through community donations and strategic purchasing. It distributed nearly 13,000 items in its first year. "I think it's just been incredible the way that Andi has kind of challenged us to think differently about need and to think differently about community," Guanzon said. "The way she approaches need, of like taking shame and judgment out of it and encouraging, I think, the community, to think about the ways that we can support each other." Such high-demand items include hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and winter clothing during this time of year. Bryant demonstrated how helping people in need also helps the community as a whole. For example, providing hygiene products helps those in need maintain good hygiene and improves their overall health and well-being, but can also prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Remedy Hall is still unburying the different needs in the area. One of the big things emerging and is one thing they will be working on is addressing patrons' inability to do their own laundry. "It all comes down to personal dignity and care in hygiene. Period poverty is a very real thing in our community. Hygiene is a very real thing in our community, and it's not a personal thing. It is a public thing," Bryant said. Without proper hygiene, you may carry bed bugs, scabies, and, in some cases, fleas, in addition to worsening the spread of norovirus, COVID-19, and the flu. Bad hygiene can become a public health issue, she said. "By helping people with being able to increase their hygiene is really for the betterment of the entire community, and not just them. On a personal level, it can really lift somebody's spirits when they're very, very low," Bryant said Remedy Hall has basic medical supplies, including gauze pads and bandages tubing for asthma or respiratory needs, heating pads, braces and supports for injuries or conditions, incontinence and disposable products, foot aids, CPAP machine parts, and accessories, among other things. They test many of their items including lights and toys. Dan is a Williamstown assistant fire chief and takes safety seriously. Items with wires are reviewed for safety. The medical supplies section is an important part of the organization as many of their clients lack access to affordable healthcare and need these basic medical items to manage their conditions and injuries. One item they are currently looking for is a power scooter. When people come to Remedy Hall with injuries or health issues, the staff does not try to diagnose them but allows the patrons to take what they need. They also connect them to the mobile health units that come to the area, as that provides an affordable option for those without insurance. However, the mobile units don't come to Williamstown very often, Bryant said. "I want this to be huge. I want this to be so much bigger. We haven't found the ends of the need just yet," she said. "My biggest dream would be a very large place where people can come and sit, have that community, have a cup of coffee with someone else who may be lonely [or might be] a little uneasy about having to come and ask for help and having that sense of community with like people." Remedy Hall has about six volunteers, but Bryant hopes to grow that four times. Donations is the heart of the organization. Without it, the space would just be two empty rooms, Bryant said. Donations can be made by contacting the charity directly by phone or text at 413-884-3051. "Monetary donations, they help us to be able to keep this, keep the shelf stocked. And whoever has that great big room or big building just sitting there, think of us," she said highlighting her hopes to keep the organization growing. Remedy Hall also established satellite lockers at local schools and the public library to reach more people, offering essential supplies to those unable to visit the facility, Greene said. Bryant does not like to be considered a hero, Dan said. "She identified a problem, had a solution, and then was able, through coordination with many other people, to put that solution into action, and that's what you see here," he said. Although she doesn't like to be considered a hero, that is how many people preserve her. Bryant and her husband meet with people, spend time with them, make them feel heard, and help them meet the needs they have to get by in life and thrive, Greene said. The possibilities of what the center can provide are endless and go beyond what is in the two rooms at the church, Bryant said. In addition to the two rooms in the church, Bryant and Dan also have storage containers at their home to store items the facility does not have room for. "Andi works her tail off to meet the needs of other people and to me, that is a Community Hero. She is known in the community as the face of Remedy Hall. During the penny social, people came to the table and just thanked us for the work that we're doing," Greene said. Greene highlighted how Bryant had a giving tree this holiday season with over 100 tags people could take and purchase gifts for families unable to meet the needs for their kids, other family members, or themselves. "The community stepped up. Every single tag was taken, every gift was purchased, and a lot of that is the belief in Andi and Remedy Hall," she said. When you think of boots on the ground, Bryant is something that comes to mind because of all the the interpersonal relationships she has with people and her ability to foster community and support. Remedy Hall's drop in hours are Monday thru Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. but appointments can be made for evenings and weekends by contacting the charity by phone or text at 413-884-3051. Updates to the Massachusetts Endangered Species List BOSTON MassWildlife works to conserve biodiversity in the Commonwealth and updated the list of plants and animals officially protected by the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) this year following an extensive review of population data and threats. Following this update, there are now 453 native animals and plants listed under MESA. All listed species receive the same protection, but they are categorized as endangered, threatened, or of special concerndepending on their status and the threats they face. After analysis of scientific data and review of public comments on the proposed changes, 22 plants and animals were added to the MESA list, 1 plant was delisted, and the status of 2 plants was changed. MESA is implemented by MassWildlife's Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. By law, the list of plants and animals protected under MESA must be reviewed at least every 5 years. The status of a species may change due to factors including changes to our knowledge about: Reproductive and population status and trends within the state, Species' habitat requirements and vulnerability to threats to its habitat, Geographic and genetic distribution within the state, Rarity of the species and its habitats, or Emerging diseases and infections Mammals The Eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), and silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) have been reclassified in Massachusetts from "not listed" to "special concern." Butterflies and moths The golden borer moth (Papaipema cerina) has been reclassified in Massachusetts from "not listed" to "endangered," while the Acadian hairstreak butterfly (Satyrium acadica) has been reclassified from "not listed" to "threatened." Bees The Parnassia miner bee (Andrena parnassiae) and the Macropis cuckoo bee (Epeoloides pilosulus) have both been reclassified in Massachusetts from "not listed" to "threatened." Plants Bog sedge (Carex exilis) from "not listed" to "threatened" Willdenow's sedge (Carex willdenowii) from "not listed" to "endangered" Split-leaved hawthorn (Crataegus schizophylla) from "not listed" to "endangered" Appalachian bristle-fern (Crepidomanes intricatum) from "endangered" to "special concern" Pine barrens flatsedge (Cyperus retrorsus) from "not listed" to "special concern" Frog orchid (Dactylorhiza viridis) from "not listed" to "endangered" Velvet rosette-grass (Dichanthelium scoparium) from "not listed" to "endangered" Showy orchid (Galearis spectabilis) from "not listed" to "threatened" Loesel's wide-lipped orchid (Liparis loeselii) from "not listed" to "threatened" Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis) from "not listed" to "special concern" Winged loosestrife (Lythrum alatum) from "not listed" to "endangered" Eastern prickly pear (Opuntia cespitosa) from "not listed" to "endangered" Hooker's orchid (Platanthera hookeri) from "not listed" to "endangered" Large-leaved orchid (Platanthera macrophylla) from "not listed" to "threatened" Round-leaved orchid (Platanthera orbiculata) from "not listed" to "threatened" Ogdens pondweed (Potamogeton ogdenii) from "endangered" to "not listed" Slender clubmoss (Pseudolycopodiella caroliniana) from "not listed" to "endangered" Slender bladderwort (Utricularia subulata) from "special concern" to "threatened" Triplex Special Screening of 'A Complete Unknown' GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.The Triplex Cinema announces a special screening on Sunday, Jan. 5 of the critically-acclaimed film "A Complete Unknown," directed by James Mangold and starring Timothee Chalamet, Monica Barbara, Edward Norton and Elle Fanning. Based on the Elijah Wald book "Dylan Goes Electric," the film portrays Bob Dylan through his earliest folk music success until the momentous controversy over his use of electric instruments at the 1965 Newport Film Festival. The title of the film comes from the chorus of Dylans 1965 hit single "Like a Rolling Stone." Released on Dec. 25, "A Complete Unknown" has been widely praised by critics and nominated for many critical awards, and early box office returns suggest a major financial success. Tickets are available at www.thetriplex.org. Seth Rogovoy is a longtime music critic and cultural journalist working in the Hudson Valley and the Berkshires. His 2009 book "Bob Dylan: Prophet Mystic Poet" is a full-length analysis of the life and work of Bob Dylan, focusing on the different strands of Judaism that appear throughout Dylans songs, revealing the ways in which Dylan walks in the footsteps of the Jewish Prophets. Rogovoy explains the profound depth of Jewish content - drawn from the Bible, the Talmud, and the Kabbalah - at the heart of Dylans music, and demonstrates how his music can best be appreciated in light of Dylans relationship to Judaism and the Jewish themes that inform them. In 2024 Oxford University Press published "Within You Without You: Listening to George Harrison," a highly personal exploration of George Harrisons essential contributions to the Beatles and his solo work, as well as his significant role as a Western proponent of Indian music and beliefs. Harrison had a close relationship with Bob Dylan; Dylan joined Harrison as a performer at the 1971 "Concert for Bangladesh" and they were both members of the 1980s supergroup "The Traveling Wilburys," along with Roy Orbison, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The director behind erotic thriller Babygirl has said she hopes her film will show that women are not trapped in a box anymore when it comes to relationships. Babygirl stars Nicole Kidman as high-powered CEO Romy, who risks her family and career when she begins a psychosexual affair with her much younger intern, Samuel (Harris Dickinson). Writer-director Halina Reijn said it should be normalised that women have relationships where their partner is younger than them: We internalise the male gaze, we internalise patriarchy, and we need to free ourselves from it, she told W Magazine. Its really hard. In the same interview, Reijn said her film is a warning against the pressures on women to maintain an external appearance of perfection, both physically and in their personal and professional lives. In Babygirl, Romy has unfulfilling sex with her husband, attends Botox appointments and recites her companys PR statements until she meets Samuel, at which point she risks unravelling completely. My movie is a warning, Reijn said. What happens if you say, No, I am perfect. I dont have any blemishes on my soul. Im not even aging I look fertile even though Im 55.? I wanted to tell the story of a woman who suppresses the beast inside her and then it wakes up. open image in gallery Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson in Babygirl ( Miss Gabler Productions LLC; Miss Gabler Rights LLC ) Kidman recently told The Sun that she was first attracted to the film because it was an area shed never explored before. Ive always been on a quest as an actor, she said. Im always going, where have I not been? And what can I explore as a human being? And this was an area Id never been. The Hollywood star is already receiving critical raves for her performance after Babygirl premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where she was awarded Best Actress. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free The Independents Geoffrey Macnab said of her performance: Weve all seen Kidman in TV dramas like The Perfect Couple and Expats, giving accomplished but slightly stiff and mannered performances. Here, she digs much deeper. He added: Reijn is one of the Netherlands most respected stage actors, well known for her work with the controversial Ivo van Hove. She elicits Kidmans best performance in years as the headstrong, fiercely independent business woman whose sexual submissiveness never seems like weakness. A film that could have slipped into voyeuristic prurience is instead witty, subversive and emotionally revealing. open image in gallery Nicole Kidman plays Romy, a CEO whose sexual submissiveness never seems like weakness ( Miss Gabler Productions LLC; Miss Gabler Rights LLC ) Speaking at VFF, Reijn said the relationship between Kidman and Dickinsons characters allows them to play out their confusion around power, gender, age, hierarchy and primal instinct. Despite its forbidden nature, the joy of that exploration is liberating, even healing, she said. Babygirl is released in cinemas on 10 January 2025. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Babygirl director Halina Reijn has admitted her erotic thrillers sensual milk scene was inspired by an experience in her own life. The newly released film stars Nicole Kidman as a high-powered CEO who risks her family and career to begin a torrid love affair with a much younger intern (played by Harris Dickinson). Early on in the movie, when Dickinsons Samuel is courting Kidmans Romy, the two attend after-work drinks. As Romy speaks to a group of colleagues a waiter comes by and sets a glass of milk down on the table. Confused at first, Romy then looks up and locks eyes with Samuel realizing he ordered the drink for her before downing the beverage. Speaking about the scene in a recent interview with W Magazine, Reijn, 49, revealed that it had actually happened to her years ago. Sometime in her 30s, the director and actor recalled going out for drinks after one of her stage performances. From across the bar, a famous Belgian actor, who was way, way younger than her sent her a glass of milk. I drank it, and he just walked out, she said. I thought, How does this guy get the courage? I did think it was a very sensual thing to do. And I thought it was very funny. Nicole Kidman stars in Babygirl as a high-powered CEO who begins a torrid love affair with a much younger intern ( Miss Gabler Productions LLC; Miss Gabler Rights LLC ) Elsewhere in the interview, Reijn discussed the importance of flipping the script on age-gap relationships, which typically feature a much older male with a younger female partner. If we see a movie where the male actor is the same age as the female actor, we find that odd. Which is insane. It should completely be normalized that the age gaps switch and that women have different relationships, she explained. Were not trapped in a box anymore. We internalize the male gaze, we internalize patriarchy, and we need to free ourselves from it. Its really hard. Earlier this month, 58-year-old Kidman, whos been nominated for a Golden Globe for her role as Romy, told The Hollywood Reporter that a lot of times women are discarded at a certain period of their career as a sexual being. So, it was really beautiful to be seen in this way, she said, adding that from the minute she read the script, I was like, Yeah, this is a voice I havent seen, this is a place that I havent been, I dont think audiences have been. Babygirl is out in U.S. theaters now. It will be released in the U.K. on January 10, 2025. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jason Momoa has been cast to star alongside Milly Alcock in the forthcoming superhero movie Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. Alcock, 24, who landed the titular role of Supermans cousin Kara Zor-El/Supergirl following a long search, will lead the 2026 adaptation of Tom Kings 2022 comic book series. Matthias Schoenaerts has been cast as the villain Krem of the Yellow Hill, while Eve Ridley was more recently announced as Ruthye Marye Knoll. Craig Gillespie is attached to direct the picture, which will be produced by DC Studios. In an exciting new update for the film, Momoa, 45, has officially been cast to play the interstellar mercenary and bounty hunter Lobo. This marks the Hawaiian stars first DC role since the finale of his Aquaman series, 2023s Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Momoa, who has previously been vocal about his interest in playing Lobo, shared the news in an Instagram post on December 30. Jason Momoa will star as Lobo in the forthcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow ( Getty Images ) Alongside a screenshot of his quotes from a old interview, which read: So Lobo was I collect comics, and I dont do so much anymore, but he was always my favorite, and I always wanted to play Lobo, because Im like, Hello? Its the perfect role. If they call and ask me to play him, its a f*** yeah. Momoa now confirms: They called. Created by Roger Slifer and Keith Giffen, Lobo first appeared in the February 1983 comic Omega Men #3. Hailing from Czarnia, Lobo is known as an antihero with a violent personality and superhero strength. Hes often characterized as a ruthless bounty hunter who has a penchant for chaos and destruction. When the film was first unveiled as part of CEO James Gunns vision for a new, unified DC Universe, he revealed the movie would feature a very different type of Supergirl. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free In our series we see the difference between Superman who was sent to Earth and raised by loving parents from the time he was an infant, versus Supergirl who was raised on a rock, a chip off Krypton, and watched everyone around her die and be killed in terrible ways for the first 14 years of her life, and then came to Earth when she was a young girl, he teased. Shes much more hardcore; shes not exactly the Supergirl were used to seeing. Additional plot details about Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow remain under wraps, though production is reportedly scheduled to begin on January 13. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Get our The Life Cinematic email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Where does history live? In documents, artefacts, bones? Or in memory, that fragile, boundless state we try to express in fragments, in talk or on the page, but ultimately take to our graves? Its the question that shapes RaMell Rosss Nickel Boys, a more artistically daring literary adaptation than almost any other of its peers. His film is a feat of full-bodied immersion, using a point-of-view camera, finely tuned sound design, and cinematic illusion to create a reality that takes hold of and then never quite leaves its audiences souls. What it isnt is a mere translation to the screen of Colson Whiteheads Pulitzer Prize-winning 2019 novel, The Nickel Boys its testament to why and how we tell stories about the past and its traumas. Whiteheads book is a fictionalised account of a friendship forged by two Black students at Nickel Academy, a so-called reform school, a euphemistic turn of phrase used to describe a juvenile penal institution. Its a storytellers effort to approximate memory in the face of the monstrous weight of fact: in 2012, a mass, unmarked grave was uncovered on the grounds of the Florida School of Boys, containing 55 identifiable burials, with evidence of a documented 100 deaths at the school. Each is a story now lost to memory. Nickel Boys honours them through the twin figures of Elwood (Ethan Herisse, with Ethan Cole Sharp as his younger iteration) and Turner (Brandon Wilson), who view their fates under very different lights. Elwood, who were introduced to first, grew up in a world tinted by optimism amid talk of the march from Selma to Montgomery, with Martin Luther King Jr at its head; television footage of the Apollo space programme; and the promise by a teacher that, at the HBCU Elwood is set to attend, there are textbooks without racial epithets to cross out. Turner, meanwhile, was moulded by a harsher reality, as hinted by a choppy montage of an open boxcar speeding across the landscape. Were offered no evidence of home. But the preciousness of their friendship, in the face of it all, reaches a kind of revelatory crescendo in the scene where Elwoods grandmother Hattie (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, a luminous beacon of hope), arrives at the Academy to see him. Theyve hidden him away from her. Come up with flimsy excuses about why he cant accept visitors. But she finds Turner, this boy like him and entirely unlike him, finds out theyre friends, and embraces him anyway. Elwood and Turner carry pieces of each other with them. Nickel Boyss committed use of POV is about more than simple identification. Its a total surrender to the subjective experience as beautiful here as in Rosss earlier documentary Hale County This Morning, This Evening (2018) in which were allowed to piece together its narrative from observed detail. Bruises and scars on a womans knee speaks to the pain she may hide from us; the calculated, habitual way a man removes a set of rings from his fingers signals a terrible act thats about to take place. POV: Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson in Nickel Boys ( Curzon ) Its a kind of internal detective work reflected on screen, before the film suddenly flashes forward to an older Elwood (Daveed Diggs), as he tries to make peace between his memories and the incoming news that mass graves have been discovered at Nickel. Violence, in Nickel Boys, isnt presented in the uncompromising way other filmmakers have argued for, but as fractured, disassociated the way the mind might allow it to replay. Its here the camera briefly lifts out of its POV, so it can hover at the back of a characters head. What do those memories mean to him? To us? At one point, he bumps into another former student, while drinking at a bar. He seems reluctant to corroborate Elwoods stories, to talk about what happened. I dont know what more you want me to remember, he snaps back. Yes, history lives in memory. But Nickel Boys asks us to consider, too, the burden of it. Dir: RaMell Ross. Starring: Ethan Herisse, Brandon Wilson, Hamish Linklater, Fred Hechinger, Daveed Diggs, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. Cert 12A, 140 mins. Nickel Boys is in cinemas from 3 January Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Get our The Life Cinematic email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy In Robert Eggerss Nosferatu, the vampire is reincarnated. He has shed his sparkle, his languid melancholy, his cobweb-speckled absurdity. He comes for you now yes, you as the murmuring voice in the dark, the one that calls your desires perverse and your soul unnatural. This creature feeds on shame, of both the faithful and the faithless. And he is as true to us as he was to FW Murnau, director of 1922s original Nosferatu, or to Bram Stoker, whose novel Dracula provided the (unofficial, legally ruled as copyright infringement) source material. Does evil come from within us or from beyond? asks Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp), the convulsing, hysteric target of vampiric attention. Eggerss interpretation of the classic novel, via the classic silent film, is not only a luxurious, Gothic revelation its also one of the most profoundly, seductively frightening horrors in years, all because its terrors seem to crawl right out from our own stomachs. In 1838, Ellens bland but well-meaning husband Thomas (a perfectly tuned Nicholas Hoult) is sent out to the Carpathian Mountains in order to facilitate the purchase of a property in his German hometown by the enigmatic Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard). He is, of course, a vampire. And a vampire is the ultimate vessel of sex and death. Skarsgards transformation into the demonically unrecognisable is too genuine a surprise to spoil here. But the wheezing rumble of his voice, and its rolled Rs, allows him to repulse as much as he seduces. His voice seems to emanate not from his mouth, but from the walls themselves. He sucks blood not from the neck, but down on the breast, accompanied by rhythmic thrusting. Its erotic, but not in the satisfying sense. He is an addiction that brings no pleasure. Hes trailed always by an army of plague-ridden rats, which seem to drive seemingly level-headed folks like Friedrich (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and Anna (Emma Corrin) Harding into apocalyptic despair. Disease is an ever-present fear, and Eggerss Nosferatu has been a decade in the making yet, now, in the shadow of a pandemic, its sensations feel sharper than ever. Murnaus film, after all, was released shortly after the end of the Spanish flu epidemic. On screen, Jarin Blaschkes cinematography forges a visual battle between the romantic, religious ecstasy of 19th-century painter Caspar David Friedrich, and a stark, occultist, near-monochrome look that evokes Murnaus original film. Nosferatu is about the collision of worlds, faith versus reason, as Stokers novel was before it. Eggers is a historian at heart, and his invocation of the 1830s is as staggeringly detailed as his Viking epic The Northman (2022) or 17th-century folk horror The Witch (2015) before it (so accurate, in fact, that its title was stylised as The VVitch). Linda Muirs costumes and Craig Lathrops production design are equally unassailable. Here, what would typically be the silent moments before a scare are interrupted by the gentle hiss of a gas lamp. The directors work is a necessary rebuke to a culture thats become a little too fond of the modernised adaptation valid, at times, but never free from the disparaging notion that Murnaus images or Stokers words have lost their power. Its nice to imagine that Nosferatu would play as well for an audience in the 1830s as it would now. Yet Eggerss perspective is a carefully placed one. He tests those boundaries of faith and reason, especially when the latters patriarchal rule would suppose that Ellens epileptic fits are best cured by having her sleep in a corset to encourage correct posture. Depp trouble: Lily-Rose Depp in Robert Eggerss Nosferatu' ( Focus Features ) Depp does magnificent work in embodying the sense of existing out of place, not only in the violent contortions and grimaces of supernatural possession, but in the way Ellens gaze seems to look out beyond her conversation partner and into some undefinable abyss. Her father denounced her sensitivity as sinful. Her husband cowered from her sexual desires. Its Professor Von Franz (Willem Dafoe, in all his cackling glory), the storys Van Helsing, who offers her some small reprieve: those who have already faced the darkness are the most capable of defeating it. Nosferatu not only revitalises a classic monster, it reminds us why they matter at all. Dir: Robert Eggers. Starring: Bill Skarsgard, Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Willem Dafoe. Cert 15, 132 mins. Nosferatu is in cinemas from 1 January Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Get our The Life Cinematic email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy People dont live like the people in We Live in Time. Yes, they fall in love. They have children. They get sick. Yet real life is a forward march; cinema of this breed is a dainty skip across the stepping stones. Tobias (Andrew Garfield) has reached rock bottom. Having climbed out of his depression bath, the crumbs of his HobNob depression meal still at the corners of his mouth, he discovers there isnt a single, functioning pen or pencil he can use to sign his divorce papers. And so he hobbles out of his hotel room in nothing but a dressing gown, only to be promptly hit by a car driven by Almut (Florence Pugh), the future love of his life. Suddenly, Almut and Tobias have a kid, Ella (Grace Delaney), and theyre in a family-style restaurant trying to explain that Almuts ovarian cancer has returned. A magician interrupts them. For a moment, they relinquish their pleasantly frazzled, human Paddington Bear personalities in order to bark at the poor employee to leave. We never actually hear what they tell Ella, because while reality never grants us shelter from the ugly, uncomfortable truth, cinema has the ability to give us blinders, a tight embrace, and a warm cup of tea. We Live in Time is about as cosy as a film about cancer can be. Director John Crowley is able to tell his love story out of sequence in three main timelines: the meet-cute, the initial cancer diagnosis, and its recurrence because we can practically dance through these steps with our eyes closed. Its both the films ultimate appeal and biggest limitation since, for a tragic weepie, its refreshingly interested in the preciousness of joy. A dramatic turn pauses so that Tobias and Almut can fish their favourite chocolates out of a Celebrations box; the films birth sequence ropes in an unexpected pair of heroes who proudly fist bump at its end; while Pugh is allowed free rein of that wondrous, throaty laugh of hers. Tobias and Almut dont really exist much as people beyond the quirks and habits embedded in Nick Paynes script. Tobias is the anxious yet gentle traditionalist, a data steward at Weetabix who responds to hardship by whipping out his notebook and glasses. Almut is the restless bisexual, a chef specialising in modern European takes on classic alpine dishes who displays an almost compulsive need to enter the Bocuse dOr, the culinary Olympics, even when months of chemotherapy beckon. We can happily invest in their love, because We Live in Time is essentially a slow romance between the audience and the on-screen charms of its leads. In fact, its hard to think of any other actor outside of Garfield who could convince us that a mans just been moved to the brink of tears by a Bavarian sausage. Somehow he does it and we believe him wholeheartedly. Pugh has a quiet force to her, which boosts the films one, intriguing narrative thread, in which a young woman stood face to face with the end tries to grapple with the idea of legacy. What kind of person will her daughter remember her as? Star power: Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield in We Live in Time ( Peter Mountain/A24 ) Yet because of the way we leap in and out of these peoples lives, theres usually very little sense of how Tobias and Almut mutate in the face of love, and Payne overcompensates by pumping in slightly absurd conflicts to get his point across. Tobias breaches the topic of children early on in the relationship. Almut blows up. F*** you for even asking! she spits back. Its hard to gauge whats really going on here. But, then again, truth in We Live in Time matters little. All emotions here are predetermined. The point is that weve simply been given licence to feel. Dir: John Crowley. Starring: Andrew Garfield, Florence Pugh, Grace Delaney. Cert 15, 107 mins We Live in Time is in cinemas from 1 January Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Get our Now Hear This email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Fatboy Slim shared a heartbreaking admission as 2024 drew to a close, as he addressed the future of his career as a DJ and producer. The 61-year-old artist, real name Norman Cook, said he believed he had lost his passion for making new music, which was preventing him from working on another album. The thing is, you cant make music unless youre absolutely passionate about it and it drives you from the moment you wake up in the morning, he told The Suns Bizarre column. I just dont seem to feel like that anymore. I feel like that about DJing and about putting on [events], but Ive kind of lost my passion for making music. Cook, who rose to fame in the mid-Nineties with his debut Better Living Through Chemistry and its follow-up, Youve Come a Long Way, Baby, has not released an album since 2004s Palookaville. For five years, I tried to beat myself up about it and go, You should be doing this, he said. But then I thought, Well, everybody likes my DJing and I enjoy that more, so Ill do that. open image in gallery Fatboy Slim at the Brit Awards ( PA Wire ) However, he said he hoped that one day the passion will come back. Cook, who is booked to headline Kendal Calling and Latitude Festival in 2025, previously said in a 2019 interview with NME that it was unlikely he would ever release another album. If I ever got around to making another Fatboy Slim album itll probably be in a time when albums are completely redundant as a format, he said. So, I will probably end up making more music and regain my love for producing and being an artist but it probably wont be an album. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members) Sign up Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members) Sign up Earlier this week, Cooks son Woody, whom he shares with ex-wife Zoe Ball, told his followers on Instagram that the DJs mother Ros had died on Christmas Day. open image in gallery Zoe Ball and Norman Cook (Fatboy Slim) with their son Woody in 2015 ( Getty Images ) Ups and downs of the year. My Granny Ros passed away on Christmas Day, he wrote. She was an amazing woman and was ready to start her next life. That kind of optimism and mentality really inspires me. Woody, 24, added that losing two grandparents this year has really made me grow and made me focus a-lot more on family. Radio presenter Ball, who quit her longtime presenting slot on BBC Radio 2s breakfast show in December, lost her own mother Julia eight months ago. Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Get our Now Hear This email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jay-Z is continuing to battle the rape allegations made against him, days after a judge refused his request to have the case thrown out. New York-based federal judge Analisa Torres ruled on Thursday (26 December) that the Alabama woman who claims she was raped by Jay-Z and fellow rapper Sean Diddy Combs when she was 13 could proceed anonymously. She also chastised the lawyer representing Jay-Z, real name Shawn Carter, for what she described as combative motions and inflammatory language against the plaintiffs lawyer. Deadline reports that Jay-Z and his attorney, Alex Spiro, are now further disputing the timeline aspect of the allegations by claiming that the plaintiff, referred to in the lawsuit as Jane Doe, lost her ability to file legal action no later than August 2021. Spiro argues that any viable [Gender-Motivated Violence] Law claim is time-barred under New Yorks Child Victims Act (CVA), which preempts Plaintiffs GMV Law claim, in a two-page letter to Judge Torres on Monday (30 December). Noting that the CVA was amended in 2019 with an additional 30 months, he continues: The courts in this District, however, have recognised that the CVAs revival period preempts the GMV Laws overlapping and extended one. Spiros point is that Jane Doe and her lawyer Tony Buzbee are three years too late with their lawsuit. Sean Diddy Combs with Jay-Z in 2015 ( AP ) Jane Does amended lawsuit alleged that she was raped by Jay-Z and Combs at an after-party for the MTV Music Awards, after befriending a limo driver outside the ceremony who drove her there. She said she travelled to New York after sneaking out of a window of her home in Rochester and hitching a ride from a friend, who has since died. Following the alleged rape, she claimed that she fled the house and called her father from a nearby gas station, asking him to come and collect her. Her father has said he does not recall driving from Rochester to pick her up in New York City. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Spiro previously said that the womans claim relies on an impossible timeline and a nonexistent location, which she has described as a large white residence with a U-shaped driveway. Its not just that this story is a lie and that its not true, its provably, demonstrably false, Spiro told reporters in a press briefing on Monday 16 December. This never happened. Torres wrote in her order last week that Spiro, who has been on the case less than three weeks, has submitted a litany of letters and motions attempting to impugn the character of Plaintiff's lawyer, many of them expounding on the purported urgency of this case. Referring to Jay-Z by his legal last name, the judge added: Carters lawyers relentless filing of combative motions containing inflammatory language and ad hominem attacks is inappropriate, a waste of judicial resources, and a tactic unlikely to benefit his client. The Court will not fast-track the judicial process merely because counsel demands it. Spiro has not yet responded to The Independents request for comment. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Former CNN anchor Aaron Brown, who became a guiding light to millions of viewers with his tireless coverage of the 9/11 terror attacks, has died at the age of 76. Brown died on Sunday (December 29), his wife confirmed. No immediate cause of death was given. The veteran broadcaster became best known for breaking the news on the 2001 atrocity, which happened to fall on his first day with the network. The fateful day marked Browns first time on air with CNN. He wasnt even scheduled to appear that morning, but he jumped on the news reporting from the roof of the networks Manhattan office. Brown covered the attacks live for 17 hours. When he was live on air, he just stopped and looked at it. And paused. And he shared this moment that everybody was thinking, Good Lord. There are no words, Browns former colleague John Vause remembered, per CNN. Brown went on to win the Edward R. Murrow Award for his 9/11 coverage. During a 2009 appearance on NPRs All Things Considered radio show, Brown reflected on his reporting of the terror attacks, saying: It captures what television ought to capture which is the totality of a story and that one did it all. open image in gallery 9/11 marked Aaron Browns first day with CNN ( Getty Images ) The strength of the country, the beauty of the day, and the horror of the moment, he said. Before joining CNN, Brown spent years working in local journalism in Seattle before he was hired as the founding journalist for ABCs World News Now. He also worked as a reporter for ABCs World News Tonight with Peter Jennings and Nightline, as well as an anchor for World News Tonight Saturday and Good Morning America Sunday. Several of Browns ex-colleagues have since paid tribute, with one of his former producers, Molly Levinson, remembering him as a quintessential newsman to his core. So many people around the world remember his unflinching coverage on September 11, 2001, and in many ways the events that followed, Levinson told ABC News in a statement. On air he gave simple, understandable even elegant analysis and reporting. Behind the scenes as a boss and a mentor, he accepted nothing less than excellence, and he gave nothing less than endless loyalty in return. Theres no one like him and he will be deeply missed. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free While with CNN, Brown also notably covered the 2002 Beltway sniper attacks, the 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia disaster and the devasting 2004 tsunami and earthquake that hit Indonesia, killing more than 170,000. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Popular radio presenter Johnnie Walker, a former pirate radio DJ who began his career with the BBC in 1969, has died aged 79. The veteran DJ had been diagnosed with a terminal illness, and announced his retirement from radio, after a career spanning almost 60 years, in October 2024. His wife, Tiggy Walker, said she couldnt be more proud of her husband and how he kept broadcasting almost to the end. She praised the dignity and grace [with which] he coped with his debilitating lung disease. He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man. It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish, she said in a statement. And if I may say what a day to go. Hell be celebrating New Years Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show. God bless that extraordinary husband of mine who is now in a place of peace. BBC director general Tim Davie described Walker as a pop radio pioneer and champion of great music, adding: No one loved the audience as much as Johnnie, and we loved him back. Walker had previously been diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a condition in which the lungs become scarred and breathing becomes difficult. The NHS says it is not clear what causes the condition and that, while treatments can reduce the rate at which it worsens, there is nothing that can stop or reverse the scarring of the lungs. Born in Birmingham, Walker began his radio career in 1966 on Swinging Radio England, an offshore pirate station, before moving to Radio Caroline, where he became a household name as host of the popular night-time show. He continued in defiance of government legislation, introduced in 1967, against broadcasters without licences. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free open image in gallery Johnnie Walker arriving in Felixstowe with his Radio Caroline colleague Robbie Dale on 15 August 1967 ( Getty ) Speaking about being on the MV Mi Amigo when the law came into force, he told the Radio Times: It was such an emotional time... I was frightened to death. I was exhilarated, excited. It was just incredible. I knew the moment that the second hand swept past the 12, that if I said a word Id be a criminal, liable for prosecution for the next two years, living in exile in Holland. It was a huge moment. He summoned up the courage to play the tracks We Shall Overcome and The Beatles All You Need Is Love after telling listeners: This is Radio Caroline: it is now 12 midnight. Radio Caroline served as inspiration for the 2009 Richard Curtis film The Boat That Rocked, which starred an ensemble cast including Bill Nighy, Rhys Ifans, Kenneth Branagh and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. Hoffmans character The Count was loosely based on one of Walkers fellow Radio Caroline alumni, American DJ Michael Joseph Pasternak who presented under the moniker Emperor Rosko while Walker himself served as a consultant for the film. Walker interviewed Pasternak for a BBC special in 2009, where they recreated the era of pirate radio using jingles, commercials and music from the mid-Fifties to the mid-Seventies. In 1969, a year after Radio Caroline closed, Walker joined BBC Radio 1, and he remained there until 1976, when he was involved in a dispute with BBC management over the music he played. open image in gallery BBC DJ Johnnie Walker in a radio booth in November 1971 ( Getty ) He was also scolded for criticising the Bay City Rollers song Give a Little Love, which he described as musical garbage. However, in 2015, the BBC stood by Walker after a listener complained that he hadnt played a single Bay City Rollers song in more than 310 Radio 2 shows and accused him of being anti-Scottish. BBC Audience Services acknowledged that Walker had made no secret of his poor opinion and dislike of the band, which the listener hailed as Scotlands answer to The Beatles, but said his job was to play the classic tracks he felt his audience would most enjoy. It added that the show was named after Walker and reflected his taste. After his dispute with management in 1976, Walker moved to San Francisco to record a weekly show for Radio Luxembourg, while also working for local stations KSAN, WHFS in Bethesda, Maryland, and KPFA in Berkeley, California. open image in gallery The BBC stood by Johnnie Walker after a listener complained about his dislike of the Bay City Rollers ( YouTube ) He returned to the BBC in the late Eighties and remained there until his retirement in 2024. In 1990, he was dismissed from the then newly launched local station BBC GLR for remarking that people would be dancing in the street over the resignation of Margaret Thatcher as UK prime minister. His last episode of The Rock Show aired on Friday 25 October between 11pm and midnight, while his last Sounds of the 70s show aired on Sunday 27 October between 3pm and 5pm. Walker was replaced on Sounds of the 70s by former Old Grey Whistle Test presenter Bob Harris, while Shaun Keaveny took on the task of presenting The Rock Show from 1 November. I am proud and honoured to be taking over a BBC Radio 2 institution from a true broadcasting great, Harris said of his new role at the time. Johnnie and I have been friends since my years presenting The Old Grey Whistle Test and the original Sounds of the 70s, and I will do everything I can to maintain his legacy and curate the programme with the very best music from that incredible decade. open image in gallery DJ Johnnie Walker stepped down from his role as a BBC Radio presenter in October 2024 ( PA Archive ) Announcing his retirement on 6 October, Walker read out a letter from a listener whose father had loved his Sounds of the 70s show but had died in 2022 from the same condition Walker suffered from (IPF). Now, that leads me to make a very sad announcement, he told listeners. The struggle Ive had with doing the show and trying to keep up a professional standard has been getting more and more difficult... so Ive made the decision that I need to bring my career to an end after 58 years. Ill make the last three shows as good as I possibly can. Walker remained upbeat in spite of his diagnosis, revealing in a Daily Mail interview that he had an unshakeable belief in an afterlife. I think its a beautiful place, he said. Unless youve done some awful things down here, I dont think theres anything to fear. Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, said: Everyone at Radio 2 is heartbroken about the passing of Johnnie, a much-loved broadcasting legend. He made Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show appointments to listen to, sharing his personal memories and tales each week. He loved radio and inspired a generation of presenters, passionately promoting the artists and music he cared about so deeply. Johnnies wry sense of humour and his warm, open style of presenting ensured he was adored by his audience. The airwaves simply wont be the same again. He will be very much missed by Radio 2 presenters, staff and listeners alike, and our thoughts are with his wife Tiggy and his children. Towards the end of his life, Walker used a wheelchair and relied on oxygen from a machine. He was cared for by his wife of more than two decades, Tiggy. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Great British Bake Off star Paul Hollywood has opened up about his unlikely friendship with Hollywoods elite, including Blake Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds. Hollywood, 58, who judges the popular competition series alongside Prue Leith, became friends with Lively, 37 and Reynolds, 48, after they approached him as fans of the show. The couple, who have been married since 2012, visited the shows set for the first time in 2023. Reynolds then returned this past July in promotion of Deadpool & Wolverine. I mean, when Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, Michael J. Fox and Lynda Carter, and all these other people come out as big fans of the show, its crazy, Hollywood said in a new interview with The Times of London. You think, this is weird for a load of people in tents in the middle of the British countryside? When asked if hes personally in touch with any of them, the celebrity chef confirmed: Ive got a lot of time for Blake. She texts occasionally, sort of to catch up on what shes been up to, what Ryans up to. And its lovely, because regardless of their job, theyre just a normal family, mum and dad to some great kids. Theyre really nice people. I like that communication, Hollywood added. I dont have many friends who are celebrities, its not me. I dont go to a lot of red-carpet stuff. I dont go to the parties up in London. I dont like London. Paul Hollywood became friends with Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds after they approached him as fans of The Great British Bake Off ( Getty Images ) While Hollywoods interview with the publication was published after Lively filed her bombshell lawsuit against her It Ends with Us director and co-star Justin Baldoni, its noted that his comments were made prior to the fact. Lively is currently involved in a bitter legal feud with Baldoni, who shes accused of sexual harassment and launching a campaign to destroy her reputation. Baldonis lawyer, Bryan Freeman, has called the allegations false, outrageous and intentionally salacious. The lawsuit, filed earlier this month, comes months after rumors of an on-set feud between Lively and Baldoni began percolating online. Hours after Lively sued him, Baldoni was dropped by his management team. The Jane the Virgin alum is now planning on filing a counter-suit against Lively. Freedman recently spoke to Deadline about the planned lawsuit, saying: I am not going to speak to when or how many lawsuits we are filing but when we file our first lawsuit, it is going to shock everyone who has been manipulated into believing a demonstrably false narratives. It will be supported by real evidence and tell the true story, he claimed. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy TV viewers are urging the BBC to bring back an acclaimed series after it appeared to end for good with a two-part Christmas special. The festive period proved rather successful for the BBC, with Gavin & Stacey, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl and the divisive Outnumbered special proving ratings hits for the corporation. Drama series The Split, created by Abi Morgan in 2018, has been another success. After originally airing for three series, it returned for the first time in two years with two new instalments set in Barcelona, reuniting viewers with the Defoes a family of sisters working as divorce lawyers. Unforgotten and Last Tango in Halifax star Nicola Walker led the specials alongside co-stars Annabel Scholey, Fiona Button and Stephen Mangan, who plays the husband of Walker's character, Hannah. On Monday (30 December), the second part of The Split: Barcelona was broadcast and it has left viewers hungry for more, with many complaining that there were just two episodes. Demand for another full series surely now undeniable, one fan wrote, with another stating: The Split: Barcelona did not disappoint. Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan were as great as ever. Just sad there were only two episodes! Similar sentiments were shared by another viewer, who wrote on X/Twitter: I love everything about this show, from the characters to the theme tune. I just wish it was back for a full series. An additional fan told the BBC to stop wasting time and to commission another series, which was branded perfection with another concurring: We need more than a two parter. Walker, speaking about the two-part special ahead of its broadcast, said it conveys a hopeful message ultimately, stating: I think theres a lot of joy in it. I mean, theres a lot of fear too. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free It is difficult to accept that a marriage that you thought would last forever turned out to have an endpoint. But if you can pick yourself up and be vulnerable and go again, even at an age where you thought everything would be sorted and its not, your worlds falling apart a little bit its still OK. Nicola Walker in The Split: Barcelona ( BBC ) Walker described the episodes as joyful, continuing: Its Abi Morgan saying its OK when your world doesnt hold up like you thought it would, the only thing you can do is get up, keep walking, and maybe go again. Close Moment Jeju Air plane skids along South Korea runway before crash For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jeju Air's chief executive said the airline will reduce its winter air traffic by up to 15 per cent and aim to secure trust following the death of 179 people in the plane crash. All 175 passengers and four of the six crew were killed when the Boeing 737-800 belly-landed and skidded off the end of the runway at Muan International Airport on Sunday, erupting in a fireball as it slammed into an embankment. South Korean officials were joined by a US probe team and officials from Boeing as they ramped up the investigation on Tuesday into the cause of its deadliest domestic air accident as police scrambled to identify victims. Officials have also faced pointed questions about design features at the airport, particularly a large dirt-and-concrete embankment near the end of the runway used to support navigation equipment. Experts said it seemed unlikely a bird strike would have been the sole cause of the landing gear malfunctioning. Meanwhile, families of the victims have been camping out at the airport as they demand answers. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A warrant has been issued to detain South Koreas impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning over his shortlived attempt to impose martial law earlier this month. The countrys anti-corruption agency said on Tuesday that a Seoul court granted the arrest warrant sought by prosecutors investigating Mr Yoon over the martial law declaration. The warrant came after the president ignored multiple summons for questioning over charges of insurrection and abuse of power. Mr Yoons lawyers called the warrant and the charges unlawful. Yoon Kab Keun, one of the lawyers, said the president had no reason to avoid the investigation but his conduct should be judged by the constitutional court and not through criminal proceedings. He said Mr Yoon would be present personally at constitutional court hearings. The constitutional court is preparing to rule on the validity of Mr Yoons impeachment by the National Assembly. If it clears the parliamentary decision, Mr Yoon will be removed from office. The latest development deepens South Koreas political crisis which started on 3 December when the president declared martial law, sparking widespread protests and the impeachment of Mr Yoon as well as his acting successor Han Duck Soo. The warrant, valid until 6 January, could see Mr Yoon detained at the Seoul Detention Center if executed, the state news agency Yonhap reported. Mr Yoon is South Koreas first sitting president to face arrest. The leader of a rebellion can face the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted under South Korean law. Mr Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecution, but the privilege doesnt extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. However, experts suggest the warrant is unlikely to be executed. Unless Yoon voluntarily lets them detain him, there is no way to detain him, Choi Jin, director of the Institute of Presidential Leadership in Seoul, told the Associated Press news agency. Should investigators have hand-to-hand fights with the security service? Mr Yoon is likely to ignore the warrant. But investigators could visit his residence to show they are strictly and fairly carrying out their work. The presidential security service, which previously blocked a police raid on Mr Yoons office, said in a statement it will follow due process in handling the warrant. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Fireworks have been lit in celebration for thousands of years, and this New Years Eve is no different. But, while Americans and millions around the world ring in the new year with dazzling displays of multi-colored chemical reactions, they may not realize their damaging impact on the environment and ecosystems. Looking at the composition of these particles and which ones may be the most toxic to human health, fireworks are in the mix with particles from coal-fired power plants, which appear to be the worst, Terry Gordon, a professor at New York University, told the publication Delaware Currents last July. Based on the fact that fireworks are so high in metal content compared to regular particles that we breathe, I believe theyre extremely toxic, he said. Thats something medical experts agree with. Modern-day fireworks are made of chemicals and mineral elements. Strontium makes red fireworks and barium makes green. Americans release nearly 300 million pounds into Earths atmosphere every year, according to the American Lung Association. open image in gallery Fireworks explode over Hong Kongs Victoria Harbour to celebrate the start of 2025. While the displays are often stunning to behold, they can degrade air quality and cause other harms to the environment ( AP Photo/Chan Long Hei ) The explosions rain down from the sky and, unfortunately, include contaminants that degrade air quality and can harm the lungs. The group warned that illegal fireworks that contain lead can cause long-term damage, although inhaling gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide can make it hard to breathe. Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas emitted through human activities that contributes to Earths warming. Exposure has been shown to increase lung diseases and chronic cough. Particles produced by firework smoke, known as particulate matter, can also cause heart attacks, stroke, and premature death. Personal fireworks are even more dangerous because of their proximity to humans. The amount of pollution depends on how big the fireworks are, how long they last, and the weather conditions at the time. Fireworks can also start wildfires, creating even more smoke and making air pollution worse, the association warns. The air quality in New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area was already moderate by Tuesday morning, and Bay Area officials asked residents to refrain from setting off personal fireworks, lighting fire pits or woodstoves, or burning wood to keep pollution at the same level. A moderate level of air pollution means that while air quality is acceptable, there may be a risk for some sensitive groups. In addition to effects on human health, there are more immediate consequences for Earths wildlife and environment that may last well after the holiday. Toxic chemicals can find their way into waterways, and materials from packaging that are not retrieved by spectators can introduce even more microplastics that have been shown to harm humans and can also cause climate change by producing greenhouse gases and through other methods, according to the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. open image in gallery Fireworks seen here over Britains London Eye to celebrate the new year on Tuesday are very loud and can damage human hearing and cause animals to flee in a panic ( AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali, File ) For wildlife and pets alike, fireworks shows can be a horrifying experience. Fireworks have been associated in behavior changes in sea lions and decline of bird colonies, according to research published last year in the journal Pacific Conservation Biology. Fireworks create short-term noise and light disturbances that cause distress in domestic animals that may be managed before or after a firework event, but the impacts to wildlife can be on a much larger scale, Bill Bateman, the study lead author and associate professor from Australia-based Curtin Universitys School of Molecular and Life Sciences, explained. He noted that the annual timing of large-scale events coincides with migratory and reproductive movements of some species. Fireworks can be very loud, producing 150 to 175 decibels of sound that damage human hearing. For animals, the noise pollution can be stressful and disorienting, causing them to flee into roadways and oncoming vehicles and to become lost, according to the Humane Society. The fireworks may be seen as a threat, causing predatory birds to abandon their nests. The animals can also mistakenly consume litter from the fireworks. Although temperatures are expected to drop in January, parts of the western US will see increased winds promoting an increased fire weather risk. Forecasters in Los Angeles warned that elevated to critical fire weather conditions would be felt in the county on Tuesday and Wednesday. Wildfires can both kill wildlife and destroy habitats, in addition to threatening human communities and producing dangerous smoke. Fireworks cause thousands of wildfires each year. open image in gallery Fireworks explode over Australias Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Years Eve celebrations on Tuesday. To mitigate ecosystem effects, experts suggest using more animal-friendly alternatives, like light shows ( Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP ) Instead of using fireworks, use fire-safe alternatives like confetti and streamers to celebrate, the National Weather Service advised. Of course, there are ways to mitigate many of these hazards, although drone displays come with their own risks attached. Keeping a respectable distance from wildlife and any dangerous fireworks can reduce the scale of such threats, as well as properly disposing of debris. Firework bans and light-based shows could help address concerns. Some fireworks are made to produce lower noise but not no noise. The future of firework displays may be in the use of safer and greener alternatives such as drones, eco-friendly fireworks, or visible-wavelength lasers for light shows, Bateman said. U.S. teachers, students visit Shijiazhuang, China's Hebei Xinhua) 08:37, December 31, 2024 U.S. college students pose for photos in Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) U.S. college students pose for photos in Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) A U.S. college student tries a set of Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) A U.S. college student tries a set of Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The climate crisis took a hefty economic toll in 2024, with just 10 disasters causing over $200bn in damage, according to a new report by Christian Aid. The report, released on Monday, lists the storms, hurricanes, floods, and typhoons which caused the most damage in monetary terms this year. Top of the list is Hurricane Milton, which caused $60bn in damage when it tore through the US in October and killed 25 people. Hurricane Helene, which struck the US, Cuba and Mexico in September, caused at least $55bn in losses as well as 232 fatalities. Floods in China caused a loss of $15.6bn and claimed 315 lives. Storm Boris and flooding in Spain and Germany combined for at least $14bn in damage and 258 fatalities. The growing intensity of such disasters, scientists say, is being supercharged by fossil fuel emissions. There is nothing natural about the growing severity and frequency of droughts, floods, and storms, said Christian Aid CEO Patrick Watt. Disasters are being supercharged by decisions to keep burning fossil fuels, and to allow emissions to rise. open image in gallery Chart shows the costliest disasters of 2024, according to Christain Aid report ( The Independent ) The charity analyses insurance payouts to calculate losses from disasters every year. For the first time since it started compiling the list in 2018, there have been two disasters in a year amounting to losses of over $50bn in a year. The US alone suffered almost 71 per cent of the losses from 10 worst disasters. The country was hit by so many costly storms throughout the year that, even when hurricanes are removed, they caused over $60bn in damage. Since the figures are based mostly on insured losses, the true costs are likely to be even higher, Christian Aid said. open image in gallery A tattered American flag flaps outside a home as furniture and household items damaged by Hurricane Helene sit piled along the street awaiting pickup on Anna Maria Island, Florida ( AP ) Scientists, however, note that while the financial costs of climate disasters are staggering, they tell only part of the story. Many of the worst-affected regions are in poorer nations, where fewer people have access to insurance, and the human toll is much harder to quantify. Cyclone Chido, which struck the French territory of Mayotte in December, may have killed over 1,000 people. In Colombia, a severe drought caused the Amazon river to drop by 90 per cent, jeopardising the livelihoods of Indigenous communities who depend on it for food and transport. Heatwaves in Bangladesh affected 33 million people, while in Southern Africa, a historic drought left 14 million struggling for survival across Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. open image in gallery A general view of damaged shelters and houses in the town of Vahibe, on the outskirts of Mamoudzou, on the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte ( AFP via Getty Images ) This report is just a snapshot of climate devastation in 2024, Dr Mariam Zachariah, World Weather Attribution researcher who analyses extreme events to discern the role of climate change at Imperial College London, said. There are many more droughts, heatwaves, wildfires and floods not included that are becoming more frequent and intense. Most of these disasters show clear fingerprints of climate change. Extreme weather is clearly causing incredible suffering in all corners of the world. Behind the billion-dollar figures are lost lives and livelihoods. open image in gallery Cars are piled in the street after flash floods in SedavA area of Valencia, Spain, in October ( Getty Images ) A year of record heat The report comes as 2024 is set to become the hottest year on record, surpassing 2023, with global temperatures edging dangerously close to the 1.5C threshold above pre-industrial levels. Scientists warn that breaching this limit set as a goal in the Paris Agreement will bring even more catastrophic consequences. Hurricane Helene, for example, was fuelled by unusually warm sea temperatures that scientists say were made 200-500 times more likely by climate change. Politicians who downplay the urgency of the climate crisis only serve to harm their own people and cause untold suffering around the world, climate expert Joanna Haigh said. Scientists say a rapid shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy is crucial, but governments also need to increase investment in climate adaptation for the most vulnerable communities. The economic impact of these extreme weather events should be a wake-up call, professor Haigh, emeritus professor of atmospheric physics at Imperial College London, said. The good news is that ever-worsening crises dont have to be our long-term future. The technologies of a clean energy economy exist, but we need leaders to invest in them and roll them out at scale. When Boris Yeltsin suddenly resigned as Russias first post-communist president on New Years Eve, 1999, his country seemed to be spiralling downhill into economic and political disintegration. Few gave his largely unknown successor as acting president much chance of reversing the economic implosion or remaining in office for long. The then prime minister Vladimir Putins media operation had already begun to portray the ex-KGB operative in stark contrast to the moribund Yeltsin as an action man. That same year the second Chechen war on the countrys southern border raged. Twenty-five years later, Vladimir Putin is still in the Kremlin but Russia is again in the grip of war on its post-Soviet periphery after last weeks downing of an airliner over Chechen airspace. Add to the tension that Putins Russia has been engaged in a covert war against Ukraine since 2014, which he had turned into a full-scale invasion by early 2022 a conflict that remains at an impasse today. As with his earlier war against Chechnya, Putins obduracy turned an opening military fiasco into a brutal war of attrition which Russias resources could win at a huge price. But Putins rise over the years owed more to bureaucratic infighting skills than any dark espionage arts, or even the judo skills which he would at one time display in front of loyal cameras. Born in post-war Leningrad amid the grim legacy of the Nazi siege, the young Vladimir Putin learnt survival arts more appropriate to the chaotic post-Soviet dog-eat-dog society of the 1990s than the shining utopian future promoted by communist propaganda. Westerners imbued with the myth of the KGB as anti-James Bond supervillains overlook that it was Putins relationship with his law professor at university rather than his time in a dingy office in Dresden that launched his meteoric rise. Anatoly Sobchak was the classic licensed dissident in late Soviet times. A non-Communist Party member permitted to whisper subversive comments in return for quietly cooperating with the KGB against really awkward customers, Sobchak was in a position to present himself as a new broom once Mikhail Gorbachev permitted real elections after 1989. On returning from East Germany, Putin left the KGB and became one of Sobchaks lieutenants, soon in the key role of managing the new mayor of Leningrads vast city property portfolio. This job brought the new civic bureaucrat into contact with the emerging post-communism new rich. People were inclined to be dismissive of Putin in the 1990s, as they had Stalin 70 years before. When a comrade derided Stalin as a mediocrity, Trotsky agreed, but added, Not a non-entity. He saw that Putins great predecessor actually was a kind of living embodiment of huge sections of the new Soviet society. It was the Wests failure to grasp that Putin represented swathes of Russians in the 1990s that gave him traction in Russian politics. Putins ability to serve Yeltsin and his cronies through that decade led them to the fatal error of choosing him as an easily manipulated successor as president. Putin sees military victory as less essential to his survival in power than continuing international tension ( AP ) Putins pardoning of Yeltsin for any misdeeds while in office was followed by a ruthless suppression of the oligarchs. He showed state power trumped money power. Military power ground down the Chechen rebels. Oil and gas prices soared as George W Bushs war on terrorism benefited Putins economy. Yet years of economic growth and peace at home did not stabilise Putins regime. In 2011, mass protests shook Moscow. The fact that these took place in a time of peace and relative plenty taught Putin a lesson. Crisis made for regime stability far more than any index of economic success. If people felt secure in their everyday lives, they could get above themselves. Like so many past Russian rulers, Putin is well aware that the relaxation that comes with peace can promote political dissent. Putins studied indifference to the fate of the crew of the sunken submarine Kursk in 2003 and their families trauma as the drama played out below the Barents Sea was one episode of his Stalin-like view of mass death as a matter of statistics. Westerners thought the misfiring of the Ukraine war would undermine Putin. However, rather as pro-Assad media used to show a parade of Western leaders who had demanded his fall and yet had been and gone while he ruled on, Putin has outlived many of his Western critics. Yet he must also be haunted by Assads sudden downfall. Will his power crumble so quickly? Back in July 2023, when his former-chef-turned-warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin rebelled against him, no one resisted the march from Rostov in the south to the gates of Moscow. Then Prigozhin did a deal with Putin before his plane crashed with him and his fellow mercenary bosses. Just as after he triumphed over Hitler in 1945, Stalin did not relax his regime but intensified internal repression, Putin today sees military victory as less essential to his survival in power than continuing international tension. But even as shrewd a political operator and as skilled a propagandist as Vladimir Putin knows, at 72 years of age, that the clock is ticking against him. Stalin died in his bed. Will Vladimir Putin? Back in 1999, Putin had taken charge of the attempt to force rebellious Chechnya on its southern border back under the Kremlins control. Only a few days ago, as collateral damage of todays Ukraine conflict, the fatal crippling of an Azeri airliner over Chechen airspace by Russias trigger-happy air defences brought home how far a quarter of a century later Putins reign has been so far bookended by war. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolies long-running divorce dispute, consisting of custody battles and abuse allegations, has concluded more than eight years after the pair separated. After the matter was settled, Jolies lawyer James Simon stated that the Girl, Interrupted actor was exhausted and relieved this one part is over. Simon, confirming news of the settlement to The Associated Press, said in a statement: More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Pitt and Jolie, who started dating in 2004, married in 2014 and split in 2016, share six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox. The pairs split culminated in two concurrent and tumultuous legal battles that saw allegations of abuse emerge, as the pair disputed over the sale of Jolies share in their French winery, Chateau Miraval. Read below to find the full breakdown of their divorce settlement as it unfolded across the years. September 2016: Jolie files for divorce Shortly after the pairs second wedding anniversary, Jolie filed for divorce from Pitt citing irreconcilable differences, following an alleged physical altercation onboard a private jet flying from France to Los Angeles, which led Jolie to request physical custody of their six children: sons Maddox and Pax Thien, daughters Zahara Marley and Shiloh Nouvel and twins Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline. Pitt told People: I am very saddened by this, but what matters most now is the well-being of our kids. I kindly ask the press to give them the space they deserve during this challenging time. April 2019: Both become legally single open image in gallery Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt pictured in 2015 ( Getty ) While it had been three years since Jolie first filed for divorce, she and Pitt were ruled legally single by a judge in 2019 as they continued to finalise their divorce settlement, which entailed the custody of their children and financial agreements. July 2021: Pitt loses custody case In May 2021, Judge Ouderkirk awarded Pitt more time with his and Jolies five children who were minors at the time. However, that decision was reversed two months later, when Jolies legal team successfully petitioned a California appeals court to disqualify Judge Ouderkirk from their case, citing his failure to disclose prior business dealings with Pitts legal team. Pitts attorney dismissed the move as a stalling tactic. September 2021: Jolie speaks about the split publicly open image in gallery Pair pictured in 2014 ( Getty ) More than five years after filing for divorce from Pitt, Jolie told The Guardians Weekend magazine about her decision to end their marriage, saying that she didnt make the decision lightly. Im not the kind of person who makes decisions like the decisions I had to make lightly. It took a lot for me to be in a position where I felt I had to separate from the father of my children. When asked by the publication how the last five years have impacted her, she replied: I mean, in some ways, its been the last decade. Theres a lot I cant say. October 2021: Jolie sells her stake in the winery she shared with Pitt By 2021, Jolie decided to sell her shares of their French winery, Chateau Miraval, which they purchased together when they were a couple. Court documents showed that Jolie was cleared to sell her shares a month prior to the sale, and Tenute del Mondo purchased 50 per cent Chateau Miraval estate from Jolie for an undisclosed amount. 2022: Pitt sues Jolie for selling her stake in the wine business Jolies decision to step away from business bred more legal drama when Pitt sued her for selling her stake, claiming that she violated a previous agreement. According to court documents, Pitt alleged that Jolie failed to receive his permission before selling her shares to the Stoli Group, and that the pair previously had an agreement that neither would do so without the other persons approval. In a court filing made in June 2022, Pitt also accused Jolie of damaging the reputation of the wine business by selling her shares to a stranger. Pitt claimed that Jolie intentionally sought to inflict harm on him by selling her half of the business. Jolie pursued and then consummated the purported sale in secret, purposely keeping Pitt in the dark, and knowingly violating Pitts contractual rights, read the filing. Pitt also said that the wine business was his passion project that grew into a multimillion-dollar global business and one of the worlds most highly regarded producers of rose wine and that Jolie contributed nothing to the businesss success. August 2022: Details of the alleged plane incident emerge By the summer of 2022 as the pair navigated the legal dispute over Chateau Miraval, documents were made public about the conflict that allegedly happened between the pair on a private jet in 2016. In documents made public, Jolie claimed that Pitt choked one of the children and struck another in the face and grabbed Jolie by the head and shook her. The filing also stated that, at one point, he poured beer on Jolie; at another, he poured beer and red wine on the children. When she said it seemed like he was going to attack one of their children for calling him a prick during the dispute, Jolie recounted wrapping her arms around Pitts neck in a chokehold-style. Jolie said Pitt was becoming a monster as he ranted and screamed at them." She added that she and the children were shell-shocked, saying she was frozen, scared and didnt know what to do. Jolie also claimed that his actions made her feel like a hostage on the plane. The Los Angeles Department of Child and Family Services concluded its investigation into the incident in November 2016 and found no abuse. The FBI also closed its investigation that month with no charges and Pitt vehemently denied any abuse. September 2022: Jolie claims Pitt masterminded plan to take control of their winery open image in gallery Jolie and Pitt pictured in 2016 ( AFP via Getty Images ) After Pitt sued Jolie over her sale of her stake in the Chateau Miraval winery, Jolie filed a countersuit in which she accused her ex of waging a vindictive war and masterminding a so-far-successful plan to seize control or the winery after their divorce. Pitts lawyer denied the claims. December 2022: Jolie says Pitts winery lawsuit part of problematic pattern In a statement from her management, Jolie denied that she and Pitt had any a secret, unwritten, unspoken contract" that required the both of them to ask for consent before selling their shares of Chateau Miraval. She also called Pitts legal actions frivolous, malicious and part of a problematic pattern. November 2023: Children in the news open image in gallery Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Zahara Marley Jolie and Maddox Chivan Jolie-Pitt attend the Maria Screening in New York on 29 September 2024 ( Getty Images for Netflix ) Pitt and Jolies daughter Zahara, who was adopted in 2005 from Ethiopia, dropped her fathers last name during a sorority induction ceremony at Spelman College, an American liberal arts college in Atlanta, Georgia. In a video obtained by Essence, the 18-year-old undergraduate reportedly identified herself as Zahara Marley Jolie notably choosing to omit her famous fathers surname. Weeks later, the pairs son Pax reportedly called Pitt a world class a**hole and f***ing awful human being in a scathing Fathers Day post. Happy Fathers Day to this world class a***hole, Pax reportedly addressed a message to his adoptive dad. You time and time and again prove yourself to be a terrible and despicable person. You have no consideration or empathy toward your four youngest children who tremble in fear when in your presence, the teenager captioned a photograph of Pitt accepting the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 2020. Pax, then 16, wrote: You have made the lives of those closest to me a constant hell. You may tell yourself and the world whatever you want, but the truth will come to light someday. So, Happy Fathers Day, you f***ing awful human being!!! April 2024: Jolie alleges that Pitts abuse predated the 2016 flight incident As part of the pairs ongoing legal dispute over Chateau Miraval, Jokie alleged that Pitt was physically abusive towards her prior to a 2016 plane incident that culminated in the Maleficent star filing for divorce. Jolies legal team filed a motion on 4 April seeking to release communications that they say would prove Pitt, 60, would not let her sell her share of the winery to him unless she agreed to an expansive NDA. In the court documents, filed to Los Angeles County Superior Court, the actors lawyers claim that Pitt had a history of physical abuse towards her before the 2016 incident on a private jet, from which she accused Pitt of being physically abusive towards their children. The lawyers said in the filing: While Pitts history of physical abuse of Jolie started well before the familys September 2016 plane trip from France to Los Angeles, this flight marked the first time he turned his physical abuse on the children as well. Jolie then immediately left him. The Independent contacted Pitts representatives for comment. July 2024: Jolie asks Pitt to drop his charges against her In July 2024, Jolies legal team said that the actor wanted Pitt to withdraw his lawsuit so the years-long dispute can be brought to a close, adding she will be forced to continue to defend herself in court unless he does so. While Angelina again asks Mr Pitt to end the fighting and finally put their family on a clear path toward healing, unless Mr Pitt withdraws his lawsuit, Angelina has no choice but to obtain the evidence necessary to prove his allegations wrong, Paul Murphy said in a statement. Murphy commented: Mr Pitt has control of all the properties the couple shared as well as control of the business, but still he demands more, and is suing Angelina for $67 million plus punitive damages. In doing so, Pitt placed squarely at issue why he tried to punish and control Angelina by demanding a newly expanded NDA. August 2024: Pairs daughter Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt drops Pitts name A Los Angeles court granted a petition from the third-eldest child of the former couple to legally change her name from Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt to Shiloh Nouvel Jolie in August 2024. September 2024: Brad Pitt goes public with his new girlfriend at Venice Film Festival Pitt went public with his new girlfriend, Ines De Ramon, as he attended the premiere of his new movie Wolfs at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024. The actor 60, has been dating jewellery designer Ramon, 34, since 2022, when they were first spotted at a Bono concert in Los Angeles. 30 December 2024: Pitt and Jolie reach a settlement The deal comes more than eight years after Jolie and Pitt separated, with the formers lawyer James Simon stating: Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over. Simon, confirming news of the settlement to The Associated Press, said in a statement: More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. However, while the former married couple have reached a deal, court documents are yet to be filed and a judge will need to sign off on the settlement. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitts contentious divorce has come to an end, with the Hollywood stars agreeing to a settlement. The deal comes more than eight years after Jolie and Pitt separated, with the formers lawyer James Simon stating: Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over. Simon, confirming news of the settlement to The Associated Press, said in a statement: More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. However, while the former married couple have reached a deal, court documents are yet to be filed and a judge will need to sign off on the settlement. No details of the agreement were immediately revealed, and the couples use of a private judge an increasingly common move among splitting celebrities in recent years has kept the proceedings largely under wraps. But some details have been revealed through a separate lawsuit filed by Pitt, in which he alleged Jolie reneged on an agreement that the actor-director would sell him her half of a French winery the two owned together. The Independent has contacted Pitts lawyer for comment. Jolie and Pitt have been entangled in a legal battle over Jolies shares of their jointly purchased winery since 2022, when the Girl, Interrupted Oscar winner allegedly sold her part of the French Chateau Miraval to a Russian oligarch. After Pitt sued his ex-wife for the alleged selling of her shares, Jolie countersued the Fight Club star. In the countersuit, Jolie disclosed new details of alleged abusive behaviour during a 2016 private jet ride that ultimately led to their divorce. open image in gallery Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have reached a divorce settlement after eight years ( Getty Images ) The bombshell FBI documents also included allegations that he was verbally and physically abusive to one of their children. Pitt has since denied all allegations of verbal and physical abuse. While AP reports it is not clear how the divorce agreement will affect that lawsuit, MailOnline claims this particular battle will continue. Jolie, 49, and Pitt, 61, were among Hollywoods most prominent couples for 12 years. The two Oscar winners have six children together. Jolie filed for divorce in 2016, after a private jet flight from Europe during which she said Pitt was abusive toward her and their children. A judge in 2019 declared them divorced and single, but the splitting of assets and child custody needed to be separately settled. A private judge one the pair had hired to handle the case reached a decision soon after, and it included equal custody of their children. But Jolie filed to have him removed from the case over an unreported conflict of interest. open image in gallery Angelina Jolie filed for divorce from Brad Pitt in 2016 ( Getty Images ) When an appeals court agreed, the judge was removed, and the couple had to start over. Additional reporting by Agencies Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Costume designer Sandy Powell has become a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). Powell, 64, is one of the most celebrated designers in the film industry with three Academy Awards and three Baftas to her name. She is mentioned in the New Year Honours list for her service to costume design. Powell cemented her star status in the film industry when she became the first costume designer to receive the Bafta Fellowship in 2023 the highest recognition given in the UK for exceptional contributions to the film industry. Other recipients have included Martin Scorsese and Dame Helen Mirren. From her sumptuous realist looks for Shakespeare In Love to reviving Mary Poppins in 2019 in the film Mary Poppins Returns, Powell has worked with modern cinemas greatest talents. Having dressed actors from Leonardo DiCaprio to Dame Judie Dench, Powell has helped directors such as Scorsese and Todd Haynes bring their cinematic visions to life. 80% of the job is psychology and only 20% art, you have to figure out how to make people feel safe, because dressing them is a very intimate act, Powell told the Financial Review in 2023. They have to feel that in your hands they will find their character. Powell grew up in Brixton and Clapham in south London. Holding no relation to the late costume designer Anthony Powell, Powell was taught to sew by her mother, while her father entertained her with tales of the characters from the casino where he worked. When she was 19, Powell began a BA in Theatre Design at Londons Central School of Art and Design, before dropping out in 1981 to design costumes for the stage. She quickly shifted her focus to film, and in 1984 met the British filmmaker Derek Jarman, who gave Powell her first opportunity in the industry: designing costumes for his 1986 biopic Caravaggio. It was through Jarman that Powell met actress Tilda Swinton. While working with Swinton on the period fantasy film Orlando, Powell received her first Academy Award nomination in 1994, thereby cementing her status in the field of costume design. After Orlando, Powells career went from strength to strength, designing costumes for films such as Gangs Of New York, The Aviator and The Young Victoria the latter two winning her Oscars for best costume design. In recent times, Powell has become known for her opulent yet elegant looks, designing notable costumes for The Favourite with Olivia Colman and Emma Stone and The Irishman with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Her work with Scorsese has helped create some of the most enigmatic characters in the directors oeuvre, including DiCaprios depiction of fraudulent trader Jordan Belfort in The Wolf Of Wall Street and Jack Nicholsons mob boss Frank Costello in The Departed. Powell and Scorseses thorough attention to detail and love of interpretation has resulted in some of cinemas most memorable characters. According to Powell, Scorseses personal interest in clothes often underscores his creative projects, telling W magazine that the director became obsessed with ties while filming 2013s The Wolf Of Wall Street. Many pin Powells success to her ability to imbue costumes with emotional accuracy. The clothes are always made for characters, she told The New York Times in 2020. The job is not making actors look nice in clothes. Its about making actors believable as their characters, about making the story work. She most recently worked on Oliver Hermanus Living, starring Bill Nighy, and Marc Webbs Snow White which is set to be released next year. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Bravo stars Paige DeSorbo and Craig Conover have officially called it quits on their relationship after three years. The 32-year-old Summer House star went public with their breakup on her podcast, Giggly Squad, with Hannah Berner on Monday (December 30). Craig and I have decided to no longer be together, she said during the episode. I love him. I think he loves me. I think we will remain friends, DeSorbo continued. No one did anything. It wasnt a bad thing. I think we both were just being really mature and saying what we want and what we didnt want, and I think thats extremely powerful to be able to voice how youre feeling in real-time and what you want for your future. DeSorbo said it felt weird to talk about their breakup publicly even though a lot of their relationship was aired on several Bravo shows. The two reportedly got together in 2021 while filming Winter House, which sees stars from the Bravoverse vacation in various wintery locations for two weeks. DeSorbo said she and Conover, 35, have grown a lot in the last few transformative years, especially as shed spent most of it living in Manhattan away from him in Charleston, South Carolina. Bravo stars Paige DeSorbo and Craig Conover reportedly started dating while filming Winter House in 2021 ( Getty Images for MTV ) I have so much love and respect for Craig. I think he is one of the best people Ive met in my entire life, she noted. I will remain the biggest fan for him and want the best for him, and he truly will get the best because he is the best. But, with that said, I think it is the right decision for both of us. Fan speculation about their breakup stirred after the upcoming Summer House season trailer was released earlier this month. Me and Craig are gonna break up, and everything I have will, like, go away. Its just a lot, DeSorbo says in the preview. However, the reality star debunked rumors that she and Conover had separated months ago and were waiting to make the official announcement on TV. She said on the podcast: The network has power, but they dont have that much power. So, that was not a real thing. Rumors of us breaking up months ago again, also not a real thing. Hes definitely the best boyfriend Ive ever had. Like, I can truly say that, DeSorbo said of Conover. He was a great boyfriend, and he did everything correctly, and he never made me feel insecure or anything like that, so it almost is harder when no ones done anything to be mad about, and thats hard. Conover has yet to comment publicly on the breakup. The two were last seen spending Thanksgiving together in upstate New York with DeSorbos family. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Step aside Moo Deng, theres a new pygmy hippopotamus in town. Earlier this month, the Metro Richmond Zoo in Moseley, Virginia, welcomed a baby female pygmy hippo calf whose name will be decided by the public. The newborn, currently weighing in at 15 pounds, is the third calf to be conceived by the hippo couple Iris and Corwin in the last four and a half years. According to the Zoo, Iris delivered her on December 9 via water birth. She was the second baby to be born around Christmas. Though standard-size hippopotamuses usually give birth underwater, pygmy hippos can give birth in water or on land. A grown pygmy hippopotamus can weigh between 400 to 600 pounds, while larger, fully-grown hippos can weigh up to 9,920 pounds and 3,000 pounds, depending if theyre male or female. The zoo opened the discussion of her name up to the public on December 27 with a poll that includes four choices: Juniper, Poppy, Omi, and Hammie Mae. Each name holds a significant meaning with Juniper acting as an ode to the time of year she was born; Poppy following suit with her mothers moniker of a type of flower; Omi because it means water in Yoruba (a Niger-Congo language), and Hammie Mae being a sweet and southern tie to Virginia ham. The name that gets the most votes will be given to the newborn. However, a subsequent vote will be conducted if the results show a tie between multiple names. According to an update posted on the zoos Facebook page, the poll received a total of 14,000 participants from around the world in the first 24 hours. The final decision will be announced on New Years Day after the poll closes at 2 p.m. on New Years Eve. Were thrilled to see so many people joining in on the fun of naming our adorable pygmy hippo baby, the Zoo wrote on its social media page. The excitement and global interest in Virginias newborn pygmy hippo comes after a female two-month-old pygmy hippo named Moo Deng from Thailands Khao Kheow Open Zoo launched an internet craze back in September. Moo Deng is a baby female pygmy hippo at Thailands Khao Kheow Open Zoo ( Getty Images ) It wasnt just that her name translated to bouncy pork, though that did humor many, fans were also captivated by the baby animals displays of lethargic behavior and playful innocence as she splashed around in pools of water and bit zoo workers. She became the subject of several political memes amid the U.S. presidential election and was even given a say in which candidate she preferred. Showing great foresight, she picked president-elect Donald Trump. Some Moo Deng-obsessors modeled cakes after the small hippo to sell to other hippo enthusiasts. Bangkoks Vetmon Cafe was the first of many to make a Moo Deng delectable. However, a few customers reportedly exhibited a moral dilemna, refusing to munch on the edible hippo because she looked too cute. Sign up to our free money newsletter for investment analysis and expert advice to help you build wealth Sign up to our free money email for help building your wealth Sign up to our free money email for help building your wealth SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Friday will mark the 16th birthday of bitcoin, the worlds first ever cryptocurrency. Created by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto on 3 January 2009, bitcoin has gone from a fringe experiment used by cryptographers, to the worlds seventh most valuable asset with a market cap close to $2 trillion. It has minted thousands of millionaires, dozens of billionaires, and cost others life-changing fortunes. Bitcoin has also inspired more than 10,000 other cryptocurrencies and spawned an entire industry of crypto exchanges, digital wallets and trading apps. So as bitcoin celebrates its Sweet 16, how did it get here, and where might cryptocurrency be heading? The birth of bitcoin and cryptocurrency Bitcoin came as a reaction to the 2008 financial crisis, with the first ever block of bitcoins containing a headline from that days edition of The Times: Chancellor on brink of second bailout for banks. Nakamotos creation offered an alternative to traditional finance one that did not rely on banks or governments to control its supply. A white paper detailing bitcoin described it as a peer-to-peer electronic cash system that uses a network of computers to support an online ledger known as a blockchain. This blockchain, which publicly tracks bitcoins supply, provides an incorruptible record of transactions of the digital currency that no single individual or institution can ever control or alter. It also forms the fundamental basis for all other cryptocurrencies. Bitcoins decentralised design meant that it was also borderless, requiring only an internet connection to send or spend it anywhere on Earth. While the idea was to democratise finance, its semi-anonymous nature meant that many of the early adopters were people using it to buy and sell drugs and other nefarious items on the dark web. Making its way into the mainstream Despite bitcoins rebellious beginnings, its popularity has inevitably attracted the interest of the same traditional institutions that it once set itself apart from. The latest bull market, which has taken bitcoin from below $20,000 to above $100,000 in the space of 18 months, has been fuelled by institutional demand. Get a free fractional share worth up to 100. Capital at risk. Terms and conditions apply. Go to website Get a free fractional share worth up to 100. Capital at risk. Terms and conditions apply. Go to website In early 2024, US regulators approved the first ever bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund (ETF), opening up the market to hundreds of billions of dollars from previously untapped investors. The landmark decision by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was hailed as a historic moment for the crypto space, and pushed bitcoin to new record price highs. It also prompted speculation that the SEC would approve spot ETFs for other major cryptocurrencies, which finally occurred in July this year for Ethereum the worlds second most valuable cryptocurrency. That same month, Donald Trump made history by becoming the first US presidential candidate to actively court the crypto industry. The Republicans appearance at the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville prompted a price surge that continued to accelerate following his victory in November. Trump has promised to make America the bitcoin superpower of the world when he comes into office in January, and has already nominated a pro-crypto candidate to lead the SEC. The incoming president has also pledged to form a crypto advisory council and create a bitcoin strategic reserve from the stockpile amassed from government seizures from cyber criminals. The backing of leading politicians and traditional financial institutions has helped legitimise bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, while also significantly boosting their price. What is cryptocurrency used for? And why are there so many? Bitcoins continued price volatility it regularly experiences swings of 10% or more each month makes it impractical as an everyday form of payment. Investors have instead likened it to a form of digital gold due to its limited supply and tendency to appreciate in value over the long term, making it a popular store of value. In December, the worlds largest asset manager, BlackRock, laid out recommendations for investors to allocate 2% of their portfolio to bitcoin. Other cryptocurrencies have emerged that are more suitable for transactions, either due to lower transaction fees, less price volatility, or an active user base. The memecoin dogecoin, which launched in 2013, has emerged as an unlikely currency accepted by major retailers, including Microsoft, Tesla and Twitch. Its popularity, utility and low fees have even led tech billionaire Elon Musk to suggest it could one day become the currency of the internet. The majority of the 10,000 cryptocurrencies currently in circulation were created in an attempt to offer something unique. Some provide increased privacy, making it impossible to track transactions or users, while others leverage blockchain technology to create a platform for things like smart contracts and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The amount of money in the crypto space has also inevitably attracted scammers and other cyber criminals, who have been aided by a regulatory landscape that is still catching up to such a nascent technology. But with the latest interest from the incoming US administration, as well as the worlds biggest financial institutions, the remarkable rise of cryptocurrency looks set to continue. When investing, your capital is at risk and you may get back less than invested. Past performance doesnt guarantee future results. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Ford Motor Companys social media site was hacked Monday with messages posted in support of Gaza and against Israel appearing to come from Ford. ALL EYES ON GAZA, Israel is a terrorist state, and Free Palestine were posted before Ford deleted the messages. Our X account was briefly compromised and three posts were made that were not authorized or posted by Ford, the company wrote on X. They do not represent the views of Ford Motor Company. Ford and X are investigating this breach. The posts were widely circulated before Ford took them down, with some X readers who were unaware that the site had been hacked praising Ford, while other attacked the company. After Ford posted a message about the hack, several X posters criticized the company for not apologizing for the tweets. This is a statement and not an apology, rabbi Samuel Stern wrote in a reply post. I wonder if the unauthorized posts targeted anyone else if you would have apologized? Incredibly weak statement, Brianna Wu, executive director of Rebellion PAC, told her followers on X. Denounce antisemitism. Apologize to the Jewish community. Promise consequences for the people responsible. Ford has a mixed history with antisemitism and Israel. Company founder Henry Ford was prominently antisemitic and spread conspiracy theories about the Jewish people. Adolf Hitler complimented Henry Ford in his notorious book Mein Kampf, and Germany in 1938 awarded Ford the Grand Cross of the German Eagle, the countrys highest honor for foreigners. The Ford company, however, has supplied armored vehicles to the Israeli military, while the Ford Foundation has provided aid in Israel and in the Gaza Strip. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Fraudsters have stolen more than 100m from the NHS in the past five years, exploiting weaknesses in IT systems to commit crimes ranging from stealing credit card data to hacking supplier emails, The Independent can reveal. Scams have cost the NHS the equivalent of funding more than 2,000 senior nurses salaries for a year or providing over 20,000 rounds of radiotherapy for cancer patients. Experts warned that the inexcusable losses, revealed as part of an Independent investigation, were ones the already overstretched health service can ill afford, calling for the NHS to protect itself better against fraud. In total, the cost of fraud to the NHS in England was 101m in the five years to 2023/24. As for individual trusts within the NHS, freedom of information requests show that University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust lost 30,615 in a 2020 bank mandate fraud. The trust declined to say more, but often in these cases criminals intercept emails and impersonate a supplier to trick staff into transferring money into fraudulent accounts, the funds from which are then moved out of the UK. Meanwhile, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust lost over 10,000 in 2021/22 after its credit card details were stolen and used for online purchases. The trust stated: The details of a trust credit card were obtained by criminals and used to make inappropriate purchases online. This was investigated by the local counter-fraud specialist and police, but could not be pursued as the companies involved were based outside the UK. This was also reported to the bank, but the loss was identified too late to qualify for reimbursement. Two-factor authentication has since been enabled for some purchases, depending on the type of transaction, and monthly reconciliation checks are completed. While consumer rules put the onus on banks to reimburse individuals up to 85,000 for fraud, these regulations do not cover organisations such as NHS trusts, which are only able to recoup losses to fraud if the money is able to be recovered. Theft across borders presents a formidable challenge, according to Richard De Vere, an independent security consultant. Once stolen funds are moved overseas, recovering them becomes a near-impossible task despite the willingness of some international law enforcement agencies to assist. Efforts to tackle fraud, he explained, have largely been left to banks, with inconsistent outcomes. Some victims get reimbursed, while others dont, he said. Online crime is real crime, yet cybercrime seems to have been put on the back burner in recent years. Dr Tony OSullivan, co-chair of Keep Our NHS Public, warned that fraud crimes are a drain the NHS cannot afford. The loss of revenue through fraud at the expense of hospitals and trusts is inexcusable, he said. The problem is exacerbated when there are insufficient safeguards and inadequate scrutiny of high-value private contracts. Fraud is not a victimless crime, Dr OSullivan stressed. The NHS must be better protected. Some trusts have been more fortunate, though they have still suffered consequences. Medway NHS Foundation Trust reported that fraudsters stole 500,000, but the majority 420,000 was later recovered. Others have been victims of more sophisticated hacks. NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board was targeted twice. In September 2022, the board lost 9,835 after the email account of a supplier was compromised. This breach enabled criminals to reset the password of the boards payment system and change the bank details for subsequent payments. The incident was referred to the NHS Counter Fraud Authority and Action Fraud (Police). No money was recovered, and the perpetrator(s) remain unknown, the board said. A second loss, amounting to 35,159, is still under investigation by the police, although the board declined to provide further details. Meanwhile, James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was defrauded of 21,512.40. The trust received two invoices for the same payment, but with differing bank details. An official contacted the company they believed had sent the invoice and received a call back confirming the new details. However, the company they spoke to was not the legitimate one. The trust said: It came to light that the bank details on the copy invoices were incorrect and they have no record of anyone ringing us back. The emails were hacked and intercepted from an email address in the US. The bank were able to recover 19,000 from the fraudulent bank account. As far as we are aware, the perpetrators werent found. The 101m figure, released by health minister Karin Smyth in a written parliamentary answer, does not include sums that have subsequently been recovered. A spokesperson for the NHS Counter Fraud Authority (NHSCFA) said: Payment diversion fraud is a global problem to which the public sector is not immune. The NHSCFA has done a lot of work to raise awareness of it within the National Health Service. It is recognised as one of the most common types of fraud, where criminals attempt to hijack the identity of legitimate suppliers and divert payments made to them. In a national campaign in 2022/23, the NHSCFA and partners directly prevented 33m of attempted payment diversion fraud, with one successful prevention diverting a potential loss of 14m. This approach is ongoing as we continue to work in partnership across the health sector and the banking sector. They added: The recent National Audit Office report into the impact of fraud and error on public funds estimates the overall cost to the taxpayer of between 55bn and 81bn in 2023/24. The NHS is no exception to this, and the 181.7bn of national annual expenditure is a target for those who are intent on committing fraud. The NHSCFA coordinates the collective response to fraud against the NHS by working with a wide range of partners across the sector to detect, prevent and recover moneys lost to fraud. There is a counter-fraud response in place within every NHS commissioner and provider in England, and in 2023/24 alone, this coordinated response prevented 184.6m from being lost due to attacks against NHS funds from fraudsters. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A snail may have been saved from the edge of extinction after more than 1,300 born in a world-first breeding programme from the UK were released into the wild. The pea-sized Desertas Island land snail was once believed to have gone extinct after no sightings were recorded for more than a century, but conservationists from the UK and Madeira now hope to repopulate their North Atlantic home. After two species of the snail were rediscovered on the rocky island of Desertas Granda in the Madeira archipelago, 60 out of less than 200 individuals were sent to Chester Zoo where experts set about creating the right conditions for them to breed. After several months, their efforts were a success and both species were successfully bred for the first time ever in human care. Armed with the perfect breeding conditions devised by Chester Zoos experts, more snails were then sent to the Bristol Zoological Society and Beauval Nature in France to further increase their population. Now 1,329 snails bred through the programme have been sent to Bugio Island where invasive species such as goats, mice and rats, which almost hunted them to extinction, have been removed. The snails reintroduced to the island have been given markings in infra-red paint so they can be identified and monitored. When the snails first arrived in Chester the very future of the species was in our hands, said Dr Gerardo Garcia, Chester Zoos head of ectotherms. As a zoo conservation community, we knew nothing about them. Theyd never been in human care before and we had to start from a blank piece of paper and try to figure out what makes them tick: how to care for them, how to create an environment in which they could flourish, and how to encourage them to breed. These snails really were on the edge of extinction and the fact that weve now been able to give them a chance of making a comeback is testament to the efforts of many people: including our highly dedicated and skilled zookeepers who have spent countless hours caring for every individual snail. Chester Zoo invertebrate expert Heather Prince said it took the team a few months to crack the breeding of the snails. Crucially, we were then successful in breeding multiple generations, she said. This was key because it meant we could then bring in the support of other zoos and establish a network, breeding them in the substantial numbers needed to have a chance of saving the species. Dinarte Teixeira, biologist and project manager at the Instituto das Florestas e Conservacao da Natureza, which discovered the animals, said: These snails are incredibly precious. The Desertas islands are the only place in the world where they can be found and so were striving to do everything we can to give them the best possible chance for the future. For 100 years we thought theyd gone forever, but now theres new hope. Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Stargazers wont have to wait too long into the new year to welcome the Wolf Moon. The Wolf Moon, the widely used name for the years first full moon, is expected on January 13, reaching peak illumination at 5:27 p.m. Eastern time, according to the Farmers Almanac. The terms origins have multiple explanations. Multiple North American Indigenous nations used wolf terms to describe winter moons, including the Cheyenne referring to the moons of November and December as when wolves run together and the Sioux using a term meaning the same for Januarys moon, according to Western Washington University. Celtic and Old English folklore arrived at a similar name for the early year full moon when wolves would have been heard howling in the night in both Britain and North America, where descendants of these cultures settled. The January Full Moon is known as the Wolf Moon by some European cultures, due to the evocative calls of wolves as they search for food in the depth of winter, Dr. Darren Baskill, an astrophysicist from the University of Sussex, told BBC Science Focus this year. open image in gallery A full moon behind Waraira Repano National Park, in Caracas, Venezuela, in January 2024 ( EPA ) Wolves were hunted to extinction in the UK just 250 years ago, being Britains last apex predator to go extinct, he added. But their presence is still remembered today through the oral tradition of the names of the Full Moon. The year 2024 was host to a number of spectacular lunar events, including supermoons, when new or full moons are within 90 percent of their closest approach to Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual. In September, stargazers were treated to a rare partial eclipse of a supermoon. open image in gallery A hunter's moon sets over Mojave, California, on October 17, 2024 ( AFP via Getty Images ) In October, an extra-large, orange-colored Hunters Moon rose in the sky. The following month, another supermoon, the Beaver Moon, was visible - the fourth supermoon of the year. The last full moon of the year, the Cold Moon, rose in the early morning hours of December 15. When viewing a supermoon, or full moon of any kind, experts recommend finding an area away from street lights and other forms of light pollution to get a clearer view. To photograph one, some recommend framing the orb with a landmark. Think of how to be creative that means tying it into some land-based object, Nasa senior photographer Bill Ingalls once told The Independent. It can be a local landmark or anything to give your photo a sense of place. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Tony Blairs government pressed ahead with plans to grant unrestricted access to the UK for workers from eastern Europe despite mounting concerns among senior ministers, according to newly-released official files. Papers released at the National Archives in Kew, west London, have revealed how deputy prime minister John Prescott and foreign secretary Jack Straw both urged delay, warning of a surge in immigration unless some controls were put in place. The move was widely seen as having contributed to a major increase in immigration in the years that followed. With successive governments struggling to get the numbers back under control, it is feared to have helped fuel the anti-EU sentiment which culminated in the 2016 Brexit vote. The Home Office had predicted the impact of allowing free access to the UK jobs market for eight states which joined the EU in 2004 would lead to a net increase of no more than 13,000 workers a year. Then-home secretary David Blunkett argued that the economy needed the flexibility and productivity of migrant labour if it was to continue to prosper. However, within weeks, the files show the numbers arriving were far outstripping the estimates, with one official warning they could see 50,000-60,000 arrivals in the first year. A senior No 10 adviser on immigration said they faced an elephant trap and advised ministers to err on the side of publishing less rather than more when it came to releasing official data. open image in gallery Tony Blair and Jack Straw, who served as foreign secretary under New Labour ( PA Archive ) Mr Straw later admitted that the failure to put in place transitional controls like most other EU nations had been a spectacular mistake which had far-reaching consequences. The papers show that Mr Straw called for a rethink three months before the A8 countries including the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia joined the EU on 1 May 2004. It had been widely expected that other member states would also allow unrestricted immigration from that date, but Mr Straw warned others were opting to impose transition periods. In a letter to Mr Blair, he wrote: If we do not think this through now, I believe we could be faced with a very difficult situation in early May, and could then be forced to take urgent action to suspend the concessions, in the least propitious of circumstances. In particular, whilst some EU member states were never going to give this concession, other EU member states who we thought would be joining us have begun to peel away. France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece and Luxembourg are all imposing transition periods of at least two years. Portugal is likely to follow suit. Italy is undecided. Sweden, Netherlands and Denmark who were with us have all announced the introduction of work and/or residence permits for those wishing to avail themselves of the concession. open image in gallery John Prescott was worried about pressure on social housing ( Getty ) He was backed by Mr Prescott, who said he was extremely concerned about the pressures on social housing from a sudden influx of new migrants. However Mr Blunkett, backed by work and pensions secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, insisted they should stick with the plan. He said that they would be tightening the regulations to stop migrants travelling to the UK simply to claim benefits but rejected calls for a work permit scheme as not only expensive and bureaucratic but I believe ineffective. In a handwritten note, Mr Blair expressed doubts, adding: Are we sure this does the trick? I dont want to have to return to it. I am not sure we shouldnt have a work permits approach also. Why not? It gives us an extra string to our bow. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Earl Spencer has been accused of ending his relationship with his wife by text message, in a High Court dispute. Princess Dianas brother went public with his relationship with archaeologist and podcast co-host Cat Jarman, 42, after splitting with Countess Karen Spencer, 52. But now the earls new girlfriend is suing his estranged wife, accusing her of revealing private details of her life. Defending herself in court papers seen by the Daily Mail, the Canadian-born countess who became Spencers third wife in 2011, said she was told her marriage was over after almost 13 years by Spencer on March 13. He did this by text message, her defence papers claim. Earl Spencer has strongly denied the allegations about the text. Defence papers for the countess, who shares their 11-year-old daughter Lady Charlotte Diana with Earl Spencer, added: Having given up her life in the United States, in order to live in the middle of rural Northamptonshire and dedicate herself to sorting out the Althorp Estate business, as well as having a child, the news was hideous for Lady Spencer. open image in gallery Earl Spencer with his new partner Cat Jarman ( @charles.earl.spencer/instagram ) According to the Mail, emails show a message Countess Spencer wrote to Dr Jarman in May this year confronting her. First of all as a woman, I just have to tell you that I am so disappointed in you. Turning all of the childrens lives upside down like this is so unbelievably immoral, it is said to have read. Good luck Cat, youre in for a hell of a ride. I think that youll find having him to deal with full-time will be much trickier than the odd five-day escape to Norfolk and a night or two in London here and there. In her email to Dr Jarman, the countess reportedly wrote: Not sure what Charles has shared with you of this, but I wont have you at Althorp while I still live here. That is a boundary I intend to hold. Its not fair to me, our daughter, or to all the staff, who are already distraught at the news of our divorce though having to serve Charles long-term mistress. Its just too much to ask. Earl Spencer has hit back at the text message claims. The notion that I would end my marriage by text is an absurd attempt to blacken my name, he said in a statement to The Independent. Karen ended the marriage, after endless threats to do so over the years, in early March. She asked me to confirm the end of the marriage in a text of 18 March and my reply that day was a simple acceptance of her decision. I have those texts still, and will share them in court when I clear my name. The privacy case centres around the allegation that the Countess had told Earl Spencer that Dr Jarman had MS. Dr Jarman told the Daily Mail: I just felt utterly sick. I went into a panic, particularly over the implications for my career. I understand that she was hurting, but why would you share private medical information like that, without consent, especially when you knew it was private and secret. It has been the most stressful time, and with MS you are told that it is most important to avoid stress. Earl Spencer went public with the relationship with his fellow podcast host on The Rabbit Hole Detectives in October months after he separated with his third wife. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Twitchers from across the country have descended on a sleepy Kent village after a rare sighting of an Americanbird. Birdwatchers from as far away as Yorkshire came to catch sight of the 'extremely rare' American yellow warbler with hundreds making the journey on Christmas Day. The foreign visitor was first spotted in New Hythe, near Maidstone in Kent, on Christmas Eve - with the bird last being sighted on British shores in 2017. Since then, camera-clutching bird enthusiasts have travelled from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the vibrant yellow creature. The species, which is native to North America and the Caribbean, has been spotted in the UK on just a handful of occasions, although it is not listed as endangered in the wild. This most recent yellow warbler was first spotted by local Glenn Honey, who says he was left 'shaking' with excitement after spotting the bird at around 11:20am on Christmas Eve. The 56-year-old explained: I've been birdwatching for about 12 years and had an inkling it was an American warbler. "It was bright yellow and small like the size of a robin. "It made me very excited and I was shaking - it was just different to anything I'd seen before. "After I sent some pictures to a Kent bird WhatsApp group the area then became bombarded with people after that. "We all think it came from North America and was assisted by the wind caused by some of the storms we've had in recent weeks." open image in gallery Dozens of birdwatchers attempting to catch site of the American yellow warbler near Maidstone, Kent ( Gary Slinn / SWNS ) Neil Colgate, another keen local birdwatcher who came to see the warbler, said crowds of hundreds had come down to see the bird. Mr Colgate, who goes on bird-watching trips to Costa Rica and the Amazon rainforest, said: "We were 15 minutes away and out visiting friends. "When the news broke, we nipped home and went down there. "It was right place, right time for a change. "It's really rare. People came from Yorkshire to see it... It has drawn a big crowd. "We were there within about an hour and a half and there were about 60 or 70 people. "But on Christmas Day there were three or four hundred people there, I've been told. "It wasn't seen yesterday but it could be hunkering down in the cold weather." The bird, believed to be an infant male, was last seen in the area on Friday (27/12) despite huge crowds continuing to gather over the weekend. open image in gallery The Yellow Arbler spotted in Larkfield, near Maidstone, Kent ( Neil Colgate / SWNS ) One keen birdwatcher drove an incredible 240 miles from Yorkshire in the hope of catching a glimpse of the warbler, which is described by The British Trust for Ornithology as 'an extremely rare visitor to Britain and Ireland'. Another twitcher said he'd waited three hours to see the warbler. Writing on his blog, Saturday Cat Bird, he added: "After the long wait, a birder called out. "The yellow warbler eventually flew up into its favoured alder trees and put on a top-class performance for the masses. "At last I had caught up with this little stunner." The last reported sighting of a yellow warbler in the UK is understood to have been on the Isle of Portland in Dorset in 2017. Where did they go? The five-and-a-half million people who failed to attend the Millennium Experience in 2000? All they had to do was trek to the Millennium Dome, built on a wind-whipped bend of the Thames on the tip of the Greenwich peninsula, for a big day out. If they had bothered, they would have made up that crucial 12 million the number that, if reached, would have placed this much-hyped affair on a financially sound footing. As it was, the missing millions sealed the Millennium Domes fate as being something of a national embarrassment; a millennium experience that, 25 years on, we would all rather forget. This national celebration was declared by the New Labour prime minister to be the triumph of confidence over cynicism, boldness over blandness, excellence over mediocrity. For Tony Blair, it was personal. An outing to the Millennium Experience was to be the greatest day in the life of his son Euan. Or so he said. open image in gallery Commuter-in-chief: an eager-looking Blair on his way to the North Greenwich-based attraction ( AFP/Getty ) You can see why he might have wanted to believe it. The Cool Britannia vibes and the values of Blairs New Labour government were to be embodied within the tent-like structure of the 48-acre dome, designed by a team led by Mike Davies of the Richard Rogers Partnership. Richard Rogers was a celebrated architect and a supporter of the Blair government. In partnership with Rose Gray, Ruthie Rogers, Richards wife, fronted the River Cafe 12 miles upriver of Greenwich. The River Cafe was a fashionable meeting place for New Labour politicians and their apparatchiks, and those riding high in the worlds of art, design, property, high finance and the media. While the architects and their engineers, Buro Happold, came up with a rather ingenious big tent for Greenwich, the question of what would go inside it was never answered with any degree of certainty or conviction. Run by civil servants and politicians, the Millennium Experience Company was as uncreative as it was secretive and even paranoid. It chose to have the diplomatic skills of a rat backed into a corner. The press was its No 1 enemy. Having taken against it from day one in 1996, when I was this newspapers architecture and design editor and the Millennium Experience a pet project of John Majors Conservative government, I experienced quite a bit of defensive aggression. As I wrote in my 2001 book London: Bread and Circuses, To criticise the project was, in the eyes of New Labour politicians, tantamount to sedition. Championed by Peter Mandelson, the sinister minister-without-portfolio, it promised visitors the most fantastic day out in their lives. Well, not quite so fantastic as walking the dog in Greenwich Park or going to get some chips. Not very fantastic at all really. The Millennium Experience, its entrance flanked by a branch of McDonalds, proved to be an exhibition of corporate sponsorship. The future the Dome was meant to represent appeared to have something to do with burgers, out-of-order rides and commercial propaganda. The next-door neighbours cat could have told us that for the price of a tin of Whiskas. The whole caboodle was to cost the equivalent of 2 billion tins of cat food. My beef was that the money would be better spent on projects of enduring value, like constructing a magnificent new natural landscape over the horrendous M3 Winchester bypass that had slashed through Twyford Down a few years earlier. Projects that could be spread around these islands, that nobody would object to and everyone else would surely enjoy. open image in gallery Former Tory cabinet minister Michael Heseltine with Peter Mandelson, champion of the Millennium Dome project ( PA ) What, I asked readers of The Independent, if we could spend the money allocated to the Dome on buildings that would outlive the ordained millennium year? Something like Zaha Hadids Cardiff Bay Opera House, an imaginative project fully thought through in terms of structure and design, which had been unceremoniously rejected for funding by the Millennium Commission and dismissed by local councils and the tabloid press. As at least one reader suggested, if Zaha wasnt good enough for Cardiff, why not let her build her glass necklace opera house on the Greenwich peninsula? The Dome was built here, and rapidly so appearing, wrote Nancy Banks-Smith, the veteran TV critic who lived opposite it, like a jellyfish washed up on the shore. In charge of the project, Mandelson visited Disneyland Florida in search of inspiration as far from Cool Britannia as you could get. What to put in a tent bigger than Green Park? For six months, Stephen Bayley, founding CEO of Londons Design Museum, tried his best to be the Millennium Experiences creative director. He believed the Dome should reveal a dazzling glimpse into the future, much as the 1939-40 New York Worlds Fair had done with its memorable The World of Tomorrow theme. It was not to be. open image in gallery Fireworks light up the sky as the UK enters the 21st century ( AFP/Getty ) Instead, hard-pressed designers were sat on by cadres of political advisers known as content editors, their role similar to that of the Soviet political commissars embedded in the Red Army. There were to be 14 zones given over to themes including Body, Faith, Mind, Work, Learning, Play and, most importantly, Money nearly all as forgettable as they were dim-witted, even when designed by architects of noted ingenuity and skill, among them Zaha Hadid, Nigel Coates and Eva Jiricna. The huge space in the centre was dedicated to a regular trapeze performance with music composed by Peter Gabriel, of Genesis and Selling England by the Pound album fame. The most important zone, however, was evidently the 500-seat branch of McDonalds sited at the Domes entrance. This was the biggest Maccy Ds in Western Europe. It was the perfect match for the Dome experience, said Barrie Flack, McDonalds Restaurants director of design. Who could disagree? To cement this convenient marriage of form, content and comestible, there was a second McDonalds inside. open image in gallery An unamused Queen Elizabeth II seemingly forgoes the singing of Auld Lang Syne alongside Tony and Cherie Blair ( PA ) Was it all tosh? I last went to see the Dome shortly before it opened, but never in 2000. According to Bayley, writing about it in The Observer in 2007, When asked, David Hockney said it would be best left empty, but New Labour abhorred a vacuum so it was filled with patronising rubbish. And when that was cleared away, it was left in pitiable desuetude. Little of the promised regeneration [of the area] was stimulated by its presence, and a fine new Tube station at North Greenwich by Will Alsop promised only the grating absurdity of delivering 30,000 passengers an hour to visit diddly squat. Since then, crowds have come to North Greenwich for pop concerts held in The O2, a music arena constructed inside the Dome. Their experience is certainly better than that of the people who told me about the opening party, when a throng of VIPs and newspaper editors were held up for hours in the cold, trying to get from Stratford station and through security to the Dome, by the pitiful sight of a clearly unhappy Queen, who had come by boat, holding hands with Blair and singing Auld Lang Syne. It was clear to anyone watching that she would probably have been happier celebrating new year as she normally did, at Sandringham. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of would-be revellers had made their way along the banks of the Thames to witness a spectacular River of Fire racing along the river at 700mph, which proved to be nothing more than a damp squib. To top it all off, there were no public lavatories along the bladder-chilling way. There are those who claim to have enjoyed their day out at the Dome in 2000 a day out in town is a day out in town, after all yet spun and doctored, and all smoke and mirrors, this baffling national mind game closed on 31 December 2000, a day ahead of the new millennium. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nearly 100 councils had more requests for emergency housing help by homeless refugees in the first nine months of 2024 than in the whole of 2023, new figures reveal. The number of migrants who need housing from councils after being evicted from Home Office accommodation has spiked in the past year - with new data showing that levels of need in 2024 will likely surpass 2023. Figures obtained by refugee charity Care4Calais, and shared with The Independent, show that councils have been increasingly swamped for help throughout 2024. Local authorities cannot always finding housing for homeless refugees, especially if they are not deemed to be in priority need - such as having a physical illness or having children. Council housing services have struggled to cope, leaving many asylum seekers to sleep on the streets. In total, 19,472 migrants came to local authorities seeking housing help after being evicted from Home Office accommodation in 2023, freedom of information data from 278 councils showed. And for the first nine months of 2024, the number of homeless migrants needing help had already reached 18,002, statistics from the same councils revealed. Of the 278 councils that responded to requests for data, 99 had seen more refugees needing help in the first nine months of 2024, compared to the whole of 2023. And 65 councils had matched the 2023 total in the months leading up to October 2024. View more Government statistics, compiled from council reports, also show a 251 per cent increase in people who have been told to leave asylum accommodation becoming homeless. Some 13,520 households needed help in financial year 2023/24, up from 3,850 the year before. The number of asylum seekers living in Home Office hotels has risen 20 per cent since Labour took power - with the latest statistics showing there were 35,651 people housed as of 30 September. This is however down from the high of over 56,000 people in hotels in September 2023. The Home Office is looking at using disused care homes and student accommodation to house asylum seekers as they try to reduce the number of hotels used. View more There are an additional 70,530 asylum seekers living in other accommodation provided by the Home Office, such shared houses or hostels, data from 30 September 2024 shows. The total number of people receiving asylum support from the Home Office is down from 123,758 in September 2023, to 109,024 in September this year - a drop of 12 per cent. Faster decision-making on asylum claims by the Home Office has partly led to a surge of migrants being evicted from hotels and needing urgent homelessness help from councils. When asylum seekers are granted refugee status, they are evicted from their hotel and have to find their own accommodation, as well as get set up to start work or claim benefits. View more The 28-day move-on period for them to find somewhere to live before eviction had been criticised by charities for being too short - and was driving requests for emergency housing help from councils. This month, the Home Office extended the grace period that an asylum seeker has to transition from supported housing to their own accommodation from 28 to 56 days. The extension, which began on 9 December, will be in place until June 2025, when the impacts will be re-assessed. open image in gallery New refugees often become homeless after they are kicked out of Home Office hotel accommodation when they receive the right to asylum in the UK ( Getty Images ) In the year ending September 2024, 99,790 people claimed asylum, similar to the previous year. The most common nationalities were people from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. However the number of people claiming asylum has more than doubled since the year ending September 2021. Though there has also been an increase in small boat arrivals since 2020, these make-up only 28 per cent of the total asylum claims for the year ending September 2024. Asylum seekers and refugees made up around 11 per cent of the total number of immigrants who came to the UK last year. Compared with other European countries, the UK has the 19th largest intake of asylum seekers when measured by per head of population. open image in gallery There has been an increase in asylum claims in the UK since 2021, government statistics show ( Home Office ) Steve Smith, CEO of Care4Calais said: Across the country, our volunteers have been supporting people who, having received the welcome news that they have been granted refugee status, face the nightmare of being made homeless. We knew 2023 was a record year for homeless refugees, but these figures show a frightening acceleration in many parts of the country in 2024. Fixing this problem in 2025 will take systemic change. Extending the move-on period to 56 days is a good start, but new refugees need more support if we are to prevent them from becoming homeless. A spokesperson for the Local Government Association said: The increasing numbers of people presenting as homeless show the pressures that councils and newly recognised refugees are facing, so it is positive that the government has temporarily extended the move on period to ensure more time for them to get the support they need and to mitigate the risk of homelessness. A government spokesperson said: This government will provide the largest-ever investment in homelessness prevention services for councils next year, with a total of nearly 1bn overall allocated to councils to help break the cycle of homelessness. And while we have inherited huge pressures in the asylum system, the government is also working with local authorities and organisations like Migrant Help to try and ensure that individuals leaving asylum accommodation after being granted refugee status or leave to remain receive the support and advice they need to mitigate the risks of falling into homelessness. Sign up for the Independent Women email for the latest news, opinion and features Get the Independent Women email for free Get the Independent Women email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Some 80 women have allegedly been killed by men in the UK in 2024, figures show. Data from the campaign group Counting Dead Women, shared with The Independent, estimates 80 women have been killed in cases where a man has been charged in relation to her death. But campaigners told of an additional 11 cases where women have died in suspicious circumstances in 2024 but nobody has been charged. Karen Ingala Smith, who set up Counting Dead Women, which records the women who have been killed by men in the UK, said the true figures are very likely to be higher than those they have provided. The campaigner warned of the women who will be celebrating New Years Eve on Tuesday evening who will not be alive to see in the beginning of 2026. Ms Ingala Smith told The Independent the death toll will almost definitely be an undercount. She added: There are likely to have been women killed in the last couple of days where a man hasnt been charged yet. There may be women whose bodies havent yet been found, women who may be killed tonight, and our annual Freedom of Information requests always find some women who we missed, usually because the media didnt report or barely reported." open image in gallery Rachel McDaid tragically lost her life this year (Nottinghamshire Police/PA) ( PA Media ) Ms Ingala Smith explained figures from the Femicide Census, an annual study which she launched, shows on average in the UK, a woman is killed by a man every three days. Until we, as a society, are prepared to admit to the reality of mens violence against women, the appalling role call of women killed at the hands of men, often men who were supposed to have loved them, will continue. Year on year. Its horrific to imagine that around 100 women celebrating the new year, will not see the next one. Wendy Francis is among those women who lost their lives in 2024 - with the 61-year-old found dead by police at her home in Worcester in March. Damian Homer, her daughters boyfriend, was charged with murdering her in a brutal knife attack and was jailed for life. He previously admitted murder and attempted murder of his girlfriend Stacey Hill at Worcester Crown Court. While Rachel McDaid is another woman who tragically lost her life this year. Michael McDaid admitted to killing the 53-year-old at her home in Nottinghamshire in April. McDaid who perpetrated the cold-blooded murder of his estranged wife by strangling her with a bootlace has been imprisoned for life. The Bishop of London previously told The Independent that something must be done to stop families having to go through the trauma of losing mothers, daughters and sisters as a result of homicides against women. Dame Sarah Mullally, the first woman to take on the role, said that the gulf left behind when a woman is murdered is truly unfathomable. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A senior US official warned that George W Bush believed he was on a mission from God to crush Iraqi insurgents, according to newly released UK government files. Richard Rich Armitage, the former deputy secretary of state, told Britains ambassador at the time, Sir David Manning, the president had to be given a dose of reality after demanding US forces kick ass in the face of rising Iraqi resistance. In an extraordinarily frank conversation, Mr Armitage dismissed claims by the US commander in Iraq that he could put down a major uprising in the city of Fallujah within days as bullshit and politically crass. The papers, released to the National Archives in Kew, west London, show Mr Armitage appealed to former prime minister Tony Blair to use his influence with Mr Bush and persuade him there needed to be a wider political process if order was to be restored. open image in gallery Sir David Manning. A senior US official warned that George W Bush believed he was on a mission from God to crush Iraqi insurgents, according to newly released UK government files ( Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA Wire ) In May 2003, the president famously declared mission accomplished following the overthrow of the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein by US and British coalition forces. Less than one year later much of the country was in the grip of violent insurgency, with US troops engaged in a bloody battle in Fallujah where militants had ambushed and killed four private military contractors. After their burned and mutilated bodies were displayed hanging from a bridge over the Euphrates river, the US launched Operation Vigilant Resolve to regain control. Within one week US troops had taken around one third of the city, but their tactics caused dismay among politicians on the Iraqi governing council (IGC), which had been set up by the coalition following the fall of Saddam. In a private meeting with the then-British ambassador on April 14 2004, Mr Armitage deputy to secretary of state Colin Powell said that, egged on by his generals, Mr Bush had initially wanted to kick ass with US marines occupying the entire city. open image in gallery President George W. Bush signs a resolution authorizing the use of force against Iraq, Oct. 16, 2002 ( AP2002 ) But he was warned by Paul Bremer, the leader of the coalition provisional authority, that such a course of action would lead to the collapse of the IGC, damaging hope of establishing an independent Iraqi administration. Faced with this dose of reality, Bush backed off, Sir David reported. Rich summed it all up by saying that Bush still thought he was on some sort of a mission from God, but that recent events had made him rather more sober. Mr Armitage was scathing about the overall US commander, General John Abizaid, who claimed there were around 1,000 insurgents in Fallujah still to be dealt with after his forces detained 200 Iraqis and 100 foreigners. He had told Mr Bush that he could finish the job in two or three days if he was authorised to use precision attacks followed by marines conducting house-to-house searches and the imposition of martial law. Rich said Abizaid had been talking bullshit. He could not possibly know how many insurgents were in Fallujah nor how to find them, Sir David wrote. Ideas for precision targeting and marine occupation were politically crass. Overall, Sir David said Mr Armitage believed the US was gradually losing on the battlefield and that it was inevitable the administration would have to send more troops which would be politically ugly for Mr Bush. He said the president had come to accept that the UN and its envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi, now offered the only exit strategy for the US, despite being subject to constant argument from vice-president Dick Cheney that they were contributing to the problems. Rich said it followed that he hoped the prime minister would urge Bush to deal with Fallujah as part of a carefully judged political process, and that he would also underline the critical importance for all of us of Brahimi and the UN, Sir David noted. Two weeks after their meeting, the US, under pressure from the IGC, finally called off the offensive in Fallujah. The US lost 27 troops, while around 200 insurgents and some 600 Iraqi civilians were thought to have been killed. Coalition forces took the city in a second offensive launched in November 2004. American troops remained in Iraq until 2011. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nurses, teachers and civil servants could be offered higher wages in return for lower pensions under plans reportedly being considered in Whitehall. The move could help avoid future strikes over pay and retain staff, who are expensive to replace. But the potential move has caused unease among some unions, with some branding it dangerous. Ministers, who have yet to be shown detailed proposals, have not made any decisions on the idea, according to The Times which first reported the proposed reform. However, it has the backing of Lord ODonnell, the former cabinet secretary, who said it was a "win-win" reform that could save the exchequer money. "If you increase a civil servants pay by 1,000 you could reduce the net present value of their pension by more than 1,000, which makes debt more sustainable but would also be a trade-off that makes sense to the civil servant because having that money upfront will mean a bank gives them a mortgage," he said. "Its just this quirk of our accounting that stops it." Former chancellors have been sceptical of the idea, but Lord ODonnell said: "An economically literate chancellor like Rachel Reeves will understand that this is making the public finances more sustainable and is very much in the spirit of the changes to the fiscal rules in the budget." Lord ODonnell, the former cabinet secretary, said the idea was a win-win ( PA ) Schools and hospitals have faced waves of strikes in recent years. These have been resolved, at least in the short term, but problems remain. Almost a third of new teachers quit within five years of qualifying, while the NHS is struggling to fill more than 100,000 vacancies. Ministers have recommended a pay rise of 2.8 per cent for millions of public sector workers including teachers, NHS staff and senior civil servants next year to the public sector pay review bodies, leading to threats of more strikes. Cat Little, the permanent secretary at the Cabinet Office, has said that she is reviewing "the balance between pay and pensions", and has begun discussions within Whitehall about offering staff more flexibility. Sir Steve Webb, a former pensions minister and partner at the consultants LCP, said there was "certainly a debate to be had about whether we have the right balance for public sector workers between pay and pensions". At the moment most public sector pension schemes are not separate funds but are paid from present tax receipts. Nearly 1 in every 4 raised in council tax is being spent on staff pensions. Mr Webb warned that while such a trade might be theoretically cost-neutral , for the government it "simply brings forward costs. Because there is no money set aside now for the pensions of teachers, NHS workers or civil servants, any saving in pension costs would not happen until todays workers retired, whereas the extra cost of higher wages would happen immediately. "In general, governments prefer to push costs into the future rather than bring them forward, meaning this idea may not appeal to the Treasury". A government spokesman said: "We are focused on supporting the civil service with the tools it needs to deliver change for working people." Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Sir Keir Starmer has been warned that his government lacks a coherent story and is leaving the door open to Reform UK, as he faces urgent calls to fix his faltering communications operation. The prime minister has been accused of ruling like a technocrat, relying on the belief that if living standards improve, voters will stick with him at the next general election. But critics of the PM from inside and outside Labours ranks have warned him that the party needs not just to deliver, but to be seen to be delivering. open image in gallery Keir Starmer has made a series of hugely unpopular decisions since taking over as PM ( PA Wire ) And while Sir Keir has suffered the biggest post-election fall in popularity of any modern British prime minister, Nigel Farages populist party Reform UK is surging in the polls, opening a three-way split at the top of British politics. At the weekend, a poll suggested that Sir Keir could lose his majority and nearly 200 of the seats he won in Julys landslide victory including 67 to Reform. Such a result would see seven cabinet ministers lose their seats, including Wes Streeting, the health secretary, while those losing to Reform would include the deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, the home secretary Yvette Cooper, and the energy secretary Ed Miliband. On top of its polling success, Reform has now overtaken the Conservative Party as the second-biggest political party in Britain by membership, with more than 140,000 members. After a war of words with Kemi Badenoch over the claim, Mr Farage opened up Reforms books to confirm that it has outgrown the Tories. He said that his party is now the real opposition to Labour. Britains top polling guru, Professor Sir John Curtice, told The Independent that Reform is very good at articulating that sense of discontent, lack of direction, lack of progress and lack of trust in politics. And he warned that Sir Keir doesnt do story, he doesnt do narrative, adding: Hes a technocrat, he is not really a politician; he believes that if Labour delivers, then voters will applaud them. That avoids the basic point that you have to persuade voters you have delivered, instead of just delivering. open image in gallery Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is prepared to tap into discontent at Labour and the Conservatives ( PA Wire ) Prof Curtice said Sir Keir does not have a vision of what he is trying to do, beyond arguing We are going to clear up the cr** the other lot left us. And he warned that Reforms recent pivot, in which it called for the nationalisation of Thames Water moving beyond immigration and culture-war issues to tap into voters economic discontent could see it take even more votes from traditional Labour voters. Prof Curtices warning came as a senior Labour MP told The Independent that Sir Keir has focused too heavily on taking tough decisions. So far in government, Labour has hiked national insurance, implemented a hugely unpopular tax on farmers and family businesses, scrapped winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners, maintained the two-child benefit cap, and denied compensation payments to Waspi women. But the MP said Sir Keir must explain how making tough choices now will directly benefit the public, and that the prime minister should not be ashamed of taxing the wealthy. Its death for us: there is no story, there is no coherent story, he warned. The MP also pointed to Reforms pivot, saying: Farage and Richard Tice [the deputy leader of Reform], theyre now talking about vulture capitalism, and we are left holding the baby. open image in gallery Richard Tice has called for Thames Water to be nationalised ( PA Wire ) They said: Reform and the alt right, they have a story, and it is evolving to be able to take on Labour seats, tapping into the systemic failures of the last 60 years. Their story is basically too much immigration, weve got to cut the green crap, weve got to stop the woke s***, then we can make our country better again. And they point to the political elites, vulture capitalists and international finance. They added: Labour are busy cosying up to BlackRock one day and kicking the Waspi women the next. There just doesnt seem to be any kind of narrative people can follow or make sense of. One of Sir Keirs ministers told The Independent that Labour has done a lot of good work since the general election, including overseeing the biggest overhaul in workers rights in a generation. But the minister added: We are just really s*** at communicating it. They continued: Its doom and gloom; where is the joy? Why are we doing things? We are really bad at storytelling, which is something the right, Donald Trump and all those lot, are really good at. And those are the lessons we need to learn. That is the new years resolution I would give to the party: do comms better and learn about that storytelling. open image in gallery Rachel Reevess Budget has faced mounting criticism ( PA Wire ) Pollster Luke Tryl, UK director of More in Common, also said there has not been a good enough story, adding that voters in focus groups see Labour as going after pensioners, farmers and small businesses. He told The Independent that it is unclear what Sir Keir is trying to achieve, and that it appears he is just making quite mean decisions on groups the public quite like. We know people elected Labour because they were sick of the Tories and wanted to fix the country, and yet there has not been enough of what the fixing looks like, Mr Tryl said. He added that the prime ministers almost obsessive narrative around tough decisions is damaging the government, as that is all the public hear. Toughness isnt a virtue... [they] almost seem to think being unpopular is the job, he said. Mr Tryl added: You can be unpopular, and make unpopular decisions, but you have to thread it together ... saying it is so that we can see the GP, fix the potholes ... which they have sort of said, but it is not coherent and they have not landed the narrative yet. Labour has been contacted for comment. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Ministers in Tony Blairs government were advised to use Post-it notes for sensitive messages to avoid having to release them under new Freedom of Information, according newly-released official files. The Labour government had originally passed the Freedom of Information Act in 2000 but as the full implementation date approached on January 1 2005 there was growing disquiet among ministers and senior officials at the implications. One No 10 adviser, wrote to Mr Blair suggesting Post-it notes which could presumably then be thrown away once the message had been read as a way of getting round the requirement to disclose official material in response to FoI requests. I also think Cab Ministers will want to make sure that Perm Secs are gripping this and information does not just filter out of the machine, she wrote. Also people will want to give consideration to the vast array of emails etc Post-it notes are the answer! Mr Blair subsequently regarded the FoI Act as one of his greatest mistakes as prime minister, writing in his memoirs that he had been a naive, foolish, irresponsible nincompoop. Meanwhile, three gilt-edged volumes of No 10 visitors books, covering the years 1970, when Edward Heath was prime minister, to 2003 when Tony Blair was in office, have been released to the National Archives at Kew, west London. Over that time, princes and potentates, presidents and prime ministers, heroes and some decided villains all left their mark for posterity. When the late Queen visited she would sign herself Elizabeth R, while the present King and his then wife were simply Charles and Diana. open image in gallery The signature of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin is seen in one of three Downing Street Visitors Books at the National Archives ( Ben Whitley/PA Wire ) The illustrious list of names includes successive US presidents from Jimmy Carter through Ronald Reagan, George Bush senior and Bill Clinton to George Bush junior. At the end of his visit in 1989, the elder Mr Bush wrote: With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this relationship that means so much to which his wife, Barbara, added: Me too. In 1996 South Africas president Nelson Mandela noted Visiting Downing St, No 10, is always an unforgettable experience while Czech president Vaclav Havel added a heart sign under his name. Two particularly remarkable pages commemorate the 250th anniversary of No 10 in 1985. The first is signed by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, who signed himself Philip. The facing page is then signed by all five surviving former prime ministers, Harold Macmillan, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath and James Callaghan, as well as the then incumbent Margaret Thatcher. Other notable visitors over the years included Sir Winston Churchills widow, Clementine, the Second World War commander Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. Among those no doubt less fondly remembered are the notorious Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwes president Robert Mugabe. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A farming chief has called on Keir Starmer to pause his disastrous reforms to agricultural inheritance tax in the latest blow to the prime minister over his controversial tractor tax. National Farmers Union president Tom Bradshaw intervened in the row again on Tuesday to say he had never before seen the anger, despair and sense of betrayal prompted by ending the 100 per cent exemption from inheritance tax on qualifying business and agricultural assets worth more than 1 million per person. In his new year message, Mr Bradshaw said Labours first budget, which brought in the proposed changes, had capped a wretched year for farming, including volatile costs, one of the wettest periods in decades and a reduction in subsidies. He described the inheritance tax changes as an indefensible family farm tax, although the government has repeatedly defended the move, arguing the vast majority of farmers will not have to pay it. Mr Bradshaw said that before the election there were a number of policies in Labours manifesto that provided optimism and demanded they be delivered at pace. open image in gallery A protest by farmers in Westminster, London, over the so-called tractor tax ( Yui Mok/PA Wire ) He called for measures to ensure the new environmental payments regime for landowners works for food production alongside nature, and supports businesses in the uplands in particular, and also urged robust standards for food imports. He went on to demand legislation to boost promised public procurement of British food and a planning system that supports farmers. These are the building blocks needed to secure UK food security and provide Britains farmers and growers the confidence they desperately need to invest for the future and deliver on our joint ambitions to produce more sustainable, affordable, homegrown food while creating more jobs and delivering for nature, supporting greener energy security and climate-friendly farming, he said. Mr Bradshaws latest intervention comes after the leader of the UKs unions also backed family farms, issuing a warning over the so-called tractor tax which has led hundreds of farmers to descend on central London in protest over recent weeks. open image in gallery National Farmers Union president Tom Bradshaw intervened in the row again on Tuesday to say he had never before seen the anger, despair and sense of betrayal prompted by the controversial change ( PA Wire ) In an exclusive interview with The Independent on Saturday, TUC general secretary Paul Nowak threw down the gauntlet to Sir Keir to prove the case for the controversial change and raised concerns about the consequences for hardworking families across Britain. Im worried about the impact of that on small farmers, he told this newspaper. You wouldnt want the policy to impact on small family farms, because that was never the intention. The onus will be on the government to demonstrate that this doesnt have the impact that some fear it will have. In response to the warning, Mr Bradshaw said: Mr Nowak is right to be concerned about the impact of the family farm tax, and we welcome his comments. In his remarks on Tuesday, Mr Bradshaw did also say there had been successes for British farming, including fairer supply chains in the dairy sector and eight of the UKs major retailers backing the NFUs long-standing call for buy British tabs to be added to their websites. open image in gallery The so-called tractor tax has led hundreds of farmers to descend on central London in protest over recent weeks ( PA Wire ) He added that the NFU would be pushing for fairness in the supply chain in 2025. Our ambitions are clear, and the manifesto commitment from this Government that national security is food security gave us hope to deliver the thriving industry that farmers and growers want to be a part of, he said. Clearly, the shadow hanging over the industry from the disastrous proposed reforms to inheritance tax makes delivering these ambitions impossible. To move forwards, we need the Government to urgently recognise the need to pause and consult so we can focus on delivering the far more exciting agenda above. As we head into the new year, we will build on the momentum of the publics unwavering support and strive to ensure we are doing everything we can to help deliver a thriving and profitable farming industry one that is good for shoppers, good for the environment and good for a secure supply of British food. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Its been more than 15 years since federal authorities put an end to Bernie Madoffs massive and destructive Ponzi scheme but the Justice Department is only now distributing final compensation payments to victims. The DOJ announced Monday that it began distributing its tenth and final payments of forfeited funds to 40,930 victims of Madoffs scheme, the largest known Ponzi scheme to date. The final payments, a total of $131.4 million, will bring the total distribution payments to over $4.3 billion. This means victims will have recovered approximately 93.7 percent of their fraud losses. Madoff, pictured in 2009, pled guilty to 11 federal felonies and was sentenced to 150 years in prison ( Getty Images ) The unprecedented scope and complexity of the Madoff remission process shows the power of forfeiture to recover assets and to compensate victims, said Brent Wible, head of the Criminal Division of the Justice Department. The final payments arrive just weeks after the 16th anniversary of Madoffs arrest. The disgraced financier was turned over to federal authorities by his sons, who were also employed with Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC (BLMIS). Madoff pled guilty in 2009 to 11 felonies, and admitted he used his wealth management business to create a massive Ponzi scheme which enriched himself, his family and others. Madoff was sentenced to 150 years, and died in prison in 2021. Madoff used his position to steal billions from his clients some of whom were high-profile individuals, such as actor Kevin Bacon, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, former broadcaster Larry King, and Holocaust survivor Elie Weisel. The more than 40,000 victims spanned across 127 countries. Over the last 16 years, federal authorities, through the Madoff Victim Fund, have been able to seize assets from those connected to the scheme to pay back victims. Much of the compensation comes from the $2.2 billion civil forfeiture recovery from Jeffry Picower, an investor and the largest beneficiary of the Madoff scheme. Picower died in 2009. Another $1.7 billion was collected as part of a deal struck with JPMorgan Chase Bank. Remaining funds have been collected from civil forfeiture action against investor Carl Shapiro and his family, as well as from Madoff and his family. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Mexico's president has said that prosecutors are investigating a town where a sign was posted thanking a drug lord for holiday season gifts for children. In the past, drug cartels in Mexico have often handed out gifts or bags of food to local people around the holidays, to try to improve their image or build local support. The cartels often want local people to warn them of army raids, but at the same time the gangs usually extort protection money from local residents. Videos posted on social media last week from the town of Coalcoman, in the western state of Michoacan, showed a sign at a Christmas fair thanking Jalisco cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera, better known by his nickname El Mencho, for the gifts. The children of Coalcoman thank Mr. Nemesio Oseguera and his sons, 2, 3, and Delta 1, for their noble gesture. Thank for your gifts, the sign read. open image in gallery People clean debris after a 7.7-earthquake in Coalcoman, Michoacan, Mexico, on 20 September 2022 ( EPA ) A person speaking over a loudspeaker repeated that message, but it was unclear how much local officials were involved in or aware of the message, or whether they had approved of it. Such fairs are often in part organized by civic, neighborhood or other groups. President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that local officials were being investigated for any possible links to the sign. Obviously we condemn these signs," she said. A criminal group cannot hold a public event to promote the acceptance of violence. A map of Coalcoman: Sheinbaum said federal prosecutors were investigating whether the town's mayor has ties to criminal groups, or who put this this sign up. In areas of Michoacan along the border with Michoacan that are dominated by the powerful Jalisco cartel, it is not unusual to see signs of the gang's control. The cartel set up checkpoints on roads in the area, and attacked their rivals with roadside bombs and bomb-dropping drones, while at the same time donating trampolines for the children of local residents. The cartels have also obliged some local residents to join demonstrations against army operations. The Mexican government's policy of not confronting the cartels has often left local officials in the uncomfortable position of having to deal with the local gangs, and even in some cases, hand over part of the municipal budget to them. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Three family members are dead and a teenager is fighting for his life after they were shot while on a birthday celebration trip in Mexico. Vicente Pena Jr., 38, and his brother Antonio Tony Fernandez, 44, both of Chicago, were killed in the roadside attack in Durango, Mexico, along with 22-year-old Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre, another family member who was a resident of the Mexican state. Pena Jr. and his 14-year-old son, whose name has not been released, traveled to Mexico to celebrate his birthday and to visit family over the holiday when their trip turned into a nightmare. According to local authorities, the family had been driving a black GMC Yukon with Illinois plates when they were attacked during what officials described as a surge in violent crime in the area. open image in gallery Vincente Pena Jr, from Chicago, was shot dead in Durango, Mexico, while visiting family ( GoFundMe ) Pena and his son, along with Fernandez and Aguirre, were found next to the SUV on Friday night with gunshot wounds to their heads. Details of what led to the shooting are not clear and it is unknown whether this was a targeted attack or a robbery gone wrong. The three men were killed in the shooting. Only Penas son survived. He was seriously injured and placed in a medically-induced coma, according to 6ABC. I feel very devastated because they wiped out my entire family, Vicente Pena, the father of Vicente Pena Jr., told NBC Chicago. It was a massacre ... because my son was shot four times in the head and once in the shoulder, and the other boy was also shot four times, once in the shoulder, and the other boy who was with them was also shot three times, Pena added. The teenagers grandmother, Maria Elena Hernandez, who was home in Chicago at the time of the shooting, told WLS through a translator about the moment she heard the news in a heartbreaking call from her daughter. She said Mom, they killed my boy. They killed Junior. They killed my brother-in-law. I dont know what to do. The non-profit group United Giving Hope is helping the family bring the teenager back to the US. open image in gallery Antonio Tony Fernandez, was shot dead alongside his brother ( GoFundMe ) As you can only imagine, this is a nightmare for his mother. And right now, what were trying to do is provide that advocacy and security, Julia Contreras of United Giving Hope said. It is very heart-wrenching and currently this family is living a nightmare. We just want to bring them home so they can be safe. Family members are also hoping to bring back Pena Jr. and Fernandez to give them a proper burial in Chicago. The tragic shooting is just the latest in a spate of violent crime that has become a routine occurrence in parts of Mexico The U.S. State Department said violent crime such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery, is widespread and common in Mexico and urged travelers to avoid Michoacan state due to its crime, according to a Mexico travel advisory. The advisory comes as many Americans dream vacations to Mexico turned into real life nightmares. Earlier this month, Gloria Ambriz, 50, and Rafael Cardona, 53, who were on vacation visiting family, were traveling in the western state of Michoacan in a black 2016 Ford Platinum pickup truck when gunmen opened fire, according to Fox 11 Los Angeles, citing the state attorney generals office. In May, two Australians and an American were killed on a surfing trip when thieves attempted to steal the tires from their truck. open image in gallery Brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad, were last seen on a camping trip in the city of Ensenada when they vanished. They were later found dead ( Getty/Supplied ) Brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad, were last seen on a camping trip in the city of Ensenada when they vanished. Their bodies were later found with gunshot wounds to their heads. And in 2021, four American tourists were injured and two alleged dealers shot dead when armed gangsters arrived to execute their rivals, right in front of a five star luxury resort where roughly 750 LGBTQ travellers were on a group trip. About two weeks earlier, a Californian travel blogger and a German tourist were killed in a similar crossfire between street-level crooks in nearby Tulum. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A Beverly Hills doctor who runs one of Americas top burn units has been charged with drugging and raping a female staff member after allegedly lure in victims through the promise of high-pay work on job recruiting sites. Dr. Babak Hajhosseini, 42, was arrested on November 26 after one of his employees reported that he had sexually assaulted her, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. On December 23, the Los Angeles County district attorneys office charged Hajhosseini with two counts of rape by use of drugs and one count of rape of an unconscious person among other oral copulation and sodomy charges. Hajhosseini denies all charges against him. The charges stem from a single accuser, but in a press release issued Monday, investigators said they believe that other victims may come forward. The LAPDs West Bureaus Special Assault Section is seeking additional victims and witnesses in a sexual assault investigation in West Los Angeles, as per the statement. The victim is believed to have worked for Hajhosseini, who founded the Wound and Burn Centers of America, located at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Office Towers in Beverly Grove. open image in gallery Dr. Babak Hajhosseini, founder, president and CEO of Wound and Burn Centers of America, faces a litany of rape charges ( Youtube/ Wound and Burn Centers of America ) The company touts itself as the worlds leading provider of advanced wound healing services, according to its website. It bears the motto Healing Humankind One Wound at a Time, Hajhosseini said on Linkedin. One woman told LAPD investigators that the doctor pressured her into consuming an alcoholic beverage that left her unconscious. She alleged it led to Hajhosseini sexually assaulting her while recording the attack. Hajhosseini allegedly lured in and assessed potential victims using recruiting websites after posting high-pay jobs, according to authorities. Police said that Hajhosseini, a Stanford University School of Medicine clinical fellow, would pressure alleged victims to work overtime at his home. The defendants lawyers issued a statement to KTLA claiming he intends to vigorously defend himself in court, where the evidence will prove his innocence. The legal team also took aim at the LAPD, claiming it made additional false and salacious accusations in a statement. They added that Hajhosseini took a voluntary polygraph test which they claim he passed adding the LAPD knows this. Following his arrest last month, Hajhosseini was released days later after posting a $2 million bond. The Independent has contacted the LAPD Hajhosseinis attorneys for more information. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A picturesque seven-mile stretch running along the Pacific Ocean in California harbors a dark secret: its the drunk driving capital of the Golden State. Laguna Beach has had the highest number of DUI arrests per capita of any California city of its size for at least two decades, officials said. According to the latest data from the California Office of Traffic Safety, Laguna Beach police made 269 DUI arrests in 2021 up from 247 a year earlier. More recent data has not been made publicly available. Scattered with beach houses of the rich and famous it was once home to Hollywood icon Judy Garland and a population of just 22,000, the city welcomes more than 6.5 million visitors every year. That, in part, is driving up the number of DUI arrests, with tourists and visitors driving into Laguna Beach for day trips. City officials have been compelled to act and have embarked on a new enforcement program to help to dramatically decrease the number of motorists driving under the influence of alcohol. The Laguna Beach Police Department sends letters to establishments where a suspected DUI driver, who was arrested in the city, had their last drink. open image in gallery Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach is usually packed with tourists and visitors entering the city ( Getty/iStock ) While there is no mention of the drivers name, it includes information about the date, time and location they were apprehended along with their blood alcohol content. The new program hopes to help hospitality workers recognize when a patron becomes too drunk. It hopes to supplement existing anti-DUI efforts, such as checkpoints. The data shows us this is a problem that we need to address and I think this is a really very innovative, collaborative and data-driven way of doing that, Laguna Beach Mayor Alex Rounaghi told the Los Angeles Times. It also looks to see whether patterns emerge concerning particular establishments, or servers, who regularly overserve customers. open image in gallery The small city has one of the worst drink driving problems for its size in California ( Getty/iStock ) So its an opportunity for them to look at whether theres a pattern with certain bartenders overserving or do some additional education with not only their bartenders, but their security staff, Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert told The Times. If the program is effective, it is hoped to be a model for other communities. Laguna Beach businesses owner Heidi Miller praised efforts to tackle drunk driving in the city. People joke that were the DUI arrest capital of California, but for me, its not such a bad thing. It means that our police department is on top of things, she told The Times. Were watching out for not only our residents but the people that are passing through our town. The Independent has contacted the Laguna Beach Police Department and the California Office of Traffic Safety for more information. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The son of a North Dakota senator was sentenced to 28 years in prison for the death of a law enforcement officer who was killed during a car chase. Ian Cramer, 43, the son of Senator Kevin Cramer, had been fleeing from a hospital a year ago when he drove head on into Mercer County Sheriffs Deputy Paul Martin, who was pursuing him. Cramer pleaded guilty in September to all of the charges against him, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, fleeing an officer and drug- and driving-related offenses. State District Judge Bobbi Weiler handed him a sentence Monday of 38 years with 10 years suspended, three years of probation and credit for over a year served in jail. open image in gallery Mercer County Sheriffs Deputy Paul Martin (pictured with his retired K9 Goliath) was killed during the incident a year ago ( AP ) She also included recommended treatment for addiction and mental health. Its unlikely that Cramer will serve the full 28 years. Cramer, who wore orange and sat quietly next to his public defender in court, apologized to Martins family when asked if he would like to speak, The Associated Press reported. I had no intention to do any of this. It was an accident, and I just hope that someday they can forgive me, and I think the best thing for me is to go to a hospital and just get more help, he said. Bismarck police reported that Cramers mother had taken him to a hospital shortly before the crash because of mental health concerns. He crawled into the driver seat of his parents vehicle after his mother got out and smashed in reverse through the closed garage door of the hospitals ambulance bay. While fleeing from deputies, Cramer hit speeds of over 100 mph and kept going even after a spiked device flattened two of his tires, according to court documents. open image in gallery Ian Cramer, the son of North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer, has been sentenced to 28 years in jail for the killing of a local law enforcement officer a year ago ( McLean County Sheriffs Department ) More spikes were set up, and Cramer swerved and then crashed head-on into Martins patrol vehicle and launched him about 100 feet, authorities said. Martin was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Much of Mondays sentencing hearing focused on Cramers addiction and mental health. His mother, Kris Cramer, read a statement in which she said her son has hurt his brain a lot on his own and is dealing with a mental illness. She apologized and said: I really do feel responsible for what happened. Senator Cramer, a Republican, has said previously his son suffers from serious mental disorders which manifest in severe paranoia and hallucinations. In March, Ian Cramer also pleaded not guilty to separate felony charges of theft, criminal mischief and reckless endangerment in connection with the events at the Bismarck hospital. A jury trial on those charges is scheduled for January. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A man who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a woman in what became widely known as the Gone Girl kidnapping has been charged with two 15-year-old home invasion sexual assaults, it was confirmed on Monday. Prosecutors allege Matthew Muller, 47, broke into a womans home in Mountain View, California, in September 2009, attacked her, tied her up and made her drink medications. He then told the woman in her 30s that he was going to rape her, but she convinced him not to, prosecutors said. Muller left after recommending the woman get a dog. The following month, prosecutors say he broke into a home in Palo Alto, California, bound and gagged a woman and forced her to drink Nyquil. He started assaulting the woman in her 30s, but she also convinced him to stop, prosecutors said. Muller has been charged with two felony counts of committing a sexual assault during a home invasion. The charges carry a possible sentence of life in prison. He is currently serving a 40-year prison term for the 2015 kidnapping. The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Our hope is that this nightmare is over. open image in gallery This June, 2015 booking photo released by the Dublin, Calif., Police Department shows Matthew Muller after he was arrested on robbery and assault charges ( Dublin Police Department ) Mullers lawyer, public defender Agustin Arias, said they have no comment about the new charges. The new charges came after testing evidence based on a new lead, according to prosecutors. District attorney criminalists found Mullers DNA on straps he used to bind one of the victims, officials said. Muller, a disbarred, Harvard-educated attorney, pleaded guilty to the 2015 kidnapping of Denise Huskins. He was also sentenced in 2022 to 31 years in state prison after pleading no contest to two counts of forcible rape of Huskins. Huskins was abducted by a masked intruder who broke into her boyfriends home in Vallejo, a city in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her boyfriend, Aaron Quinn, told detectives he woke up to a bright light on his face and that intruders had drugged, blindfolded and tied both of them up before kidnapping Huskins in the middle of the night. Quinn also said the kidnappers were demanding an $8,500 ransom. A Vallejo police detective interrogated Quinn for hours, at times suggesting he may have been involved in Huskins disappearance. Quinn took a polygraph test which an FBI agent told him he failed, the couple said later in a book about their ordeal. Huskins, who was 29 at the time, turned up unharmed two days later outside her fathers apartment in Huntington Beach, a city in Southern California, where she said she was dropped off. She reappeared just hours before the ransom was due. open image in gallery Rosamund Pikes Amy Dunne (alongside Ben Affleck) in Gone Girl' ( Sony ) That same day, police in Vallejo announced in a news conference that they had found no evidence of a kidnapping and accused Huskins and Quinn of faking the abduction, which spurred a massive search. After Huskins release, Vallejo police erroneously likened her kidnapping to the book and movie Gone Girl, in which a woman goes missing and then lies about being kidnapped when she reappears. Investigators dropped that theory after Muller was arrested by police in Dublin, California, for a similar home invasion. Authorities said they found a cellphone that they traced to Muller and a subsequent search of a car and home turned up evidence, including a computer Muller stole from Quinn, linking the disbarred attorney to the abduction. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Police in Arizona are investigating after a good samaritan who set out to help a stranger with car trouble was found dead near his own burned out vehicle on Christmas Eve. Paul Clifford, 53, was reported missing by his family after he was visited at his home by a man who claimed to need help starting his vehicle, according to investigators. Clifford left in his daughters truck to help jump start the vehicle at around 11.30 p.m. on December 23 but did not return. Authorities tracked down the truck and Cliffords body was found near his smoldering vehicle on a remote stretch of road northeast of Tucson a day later. Its very far, its very remote and to get out there it takes a specific vehicle. I think you can get there in a two wheel vehicle but its going to be very slow going, PCSD deputy Adam Schoonover said, per KOLD. Deputies from the Pima County Police had responded to a report of "suspicious activity" around around 1:20 a.m, according to local outlets. Sabrina Vining, who identified herself online as Cliffords daughter, said that his family was deeply saddened by the loss of their father, describing him as a gentle giant and had a huge, caring heart. I am at a loss for my mom and doing everything in my power to support her at this time, Vining said in a GoFundMe page. She added that any help was appreciated in the wake of this devastation. Authorities have yet to release further details about the man who approached Clifford. The Sheriffs Department has urged anyone with information to call 520-882-7463. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A man who police believe was brutally murdered by his 12-year-old daughter has been named by officials. James Waldie, 55, of North Las Vegas died from stab wounds in his neck after an altercation with his child at his home on Mercury Street around 9:30 p.m. Friday, according to the Clark County Coroner. Officers found Waldie inside an apartment covered in blood and lying dead on the floor at the scene, the report added. His daughter, 12, who has not been unidentified, was arrested and booked into the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center on suspicion of his murder with a deadly weapon, said the North Las Vegas Police Department. She is the sole suspect in the case. Despite reportedly suggesting to police on claims that a break-in had taken place, investigators found no evidence of significant physical harm to the girl or any sign of forced entry inside the home. Earlier in December, police previously visited the apartment where the father and daughter lived after receiving reports of a runaway child and a domestic disturbance. According to his family, the father of nine had been battling stage four cancer for four years when he was allegedly murdered, shared family in an obituary and fundraiser page. His stepdaughter is hoping to raise money towards Waldies funeral costs through a GoFundMe fundraiser. One section of the blurb on that page reads: On Friday, December 27th, our family suffered the sudden loss of our father, James Waldie, whose life was tragically taken too soon by the hands of his own daughter. My sisters and I are going through an incredibly rough time right now. Not only did we lose our father, but unfortunately we lost our sister too. We never believed that she would be capable of such a horrific crime. His stepdaughter described the 55-year-old as a fighter who surely never gave up, a father who cared and loved his children, a son who regularly checked on his mom, and a brother who would talk an ear off. The investigation into his death remains ongoing. The Independent contacted the North Las Vegas Police Department for an update on the case. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A kidnapper who allegedly threatened to prostitute a female victim and sell her organs giggled as he confessed to police, according to authorities. The 22-year-old woman was abducted at gunpoint in a terrifying ordeal on Christmas Eve morning in Haltom City, Texas, police confirmed. Eduardo Javier Ordonez Godoy, 35, of no known address, was arrested less than 24 hours later 200 miles away in Oklahoma City. Detectives were struck by his manner when they questioned him. He smirked a lot, he giggled, and, you know, was almost proud of what he did, Haltom City Police Sergeant Rick Alexander told FOX 4. He claims hes just a thief. He wants money, Alexander added. But, you know, in this case, clearly he went beyond that and brought a firearm into it. Godoy ambushed the woman as she was leaving for work at around 4:45 a.m. on Christmas Eve morning, according to police. He forced her into the backseat of her car and made her withdraw money from an ATM. open image in gallery Oklahoma City Police discovered the suspect in the stolen vehicle on Christmas Day ( Oklahoma City Police Department ) He then took her on a frightening 22-mile journey, where he threatened to sell her organs or prostitute her, according to arrest affidavits. The suspect left the victim in Grapevine, Dallas-Forth Worth, and tied her up with shoelaces as he fled in her car. She managed to escape and reported the incident to the police, who registered the stolen vehicle into a database. The victim was physically unharmed, but told police the suspect made her fear for her life. On Christmas Day the suspect was discovered by an alert patrol officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department in a parking lot after taking note of the stolen vehicle. He was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect is originally from Honduras and police said he claimed to be affiliated with a gang there, FOX reported. According to police, Godoy has committed similar crimes before and has been arrested and deported back to his home country. Police noted he has an active ICE detainer hold due to his immigration status. Godoy faces charges of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated robbery in Haltom City and multiple felonies in Oklahoma, where he is currently being held. The investigation is ongoing. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A 12-year-old girl in North Las Vegas is being held on suspicion of stabbing her father to death following an argument. The North Las Vegas Police Department had been called to an apartment on Mercury Street at around 9:30 p.m. Friday for a welfare check when they found a 55-year-old man covered in blood and lying dead on the floor. Family had told police in a 911 call that the 12-year-old girl suspected her father was dead after a break-in. But when police arrived at the apartment they found no evidence of significant physical harm to the girl or any sign of forced entry. The young girl has been booked into the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center on suspicion of murder with a deadly weapon, police said. She is the sole suspect in the case, according to authorities. The girl reportedly told police that she and her father had a disagreement earlier that evening regarding a disciplinary action, police said. Authorities have yet to release the identities of the slain father and his 12-year-old daughter. Detectives said the North Las Vegas Police Department visited the girls address in December after receiving reports of a runaway child and a domestic disturbance. Meanwhile, just 24 hours later, a similar crime occurred just a few miles away in Las Vegas Valley, where a 15-year-old boy is accused of fatally shooting his father Saturday evening, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. open image in gallery A 15-year-old boy is alleged to have fatally gunned his father down at another Las Vegas address just 24 hours after a similar crime unfolded a short distance away ( Google Maps ) The boy reportedly shot his father after he took away his electronic devices, police said. The 15-year-olds sister called officers to their home at 8:40 p.m. Saturday, claiming that her brother had fatally shot their father multiple times. The father was declared dead at the scene, and his 15-year-old son was arrested and booked into Clark County Juvenile Hall on charges of open murder and assault with a deadly weapon. The pair of incidents are not related, and investigations remain ongoing. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An Ohio couple who tortured their five adopted special needs sons, treating them worse than prisoners of war in their own home in dungeon-like conditions have been sentenced to more than a decade in prison. Charles Edmonson, 64, and his wife, Matthew Edmonson, 50, were each charged in July with five felony counts of endangering children. On December 27, Charles pleaded guilty to kidnapping, felonious assault and three counts of child endangering, according to WLWT. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison. His wife pleaded guilty to five counts of child endangering. She was sentenced to 13 years behind bars. open image in gallery Charles Edmonson, 64, pleaded guilty to kidnapping, felonious assault and three counts of child endangering ( Clermont County County Sheriffs Office ) Clermont County Prosecutor Mark J. Tekulve said the investigation into the couple began after Charles Edmonson was convicted in a separate case of sexually abusing another adopted child, who was an adult at the time. That investigation led detectives to shocking footage of the Edmonson couple abusing their five young sons worse than prisoners of war in their own home, Tekulve said, according to WLWT. The five boys are biological brothers who the couple fostered before formally adopting, Tekulve said, adding that they were kept in conditions he described as like a dungeon. The videos of these undernourished and naked children huddled up in a locked room in the basement, on the stone-cold basement floor like a pile of puppies trying to stay together to keep warm, are nothing short of gut-wrenching, Tekulve said in a statement in June. open image in gallery Matthew Edmonson, 50, pleaded guilty to five counts of child endangering ( Clermont County County Sheriffs Office ) All five children, including 9-year-old triplets, a 12-year-old and a 14-year-old, suffered medical issues and were in and out of hospitals while in the care of their parents who downplayed their conditions, Tekulve said. They have since been removed from the Edmonsons home and are now thriving, according to Tekulve. These two are unfit to be parents, and I am grateful to those who have worked tirelessly to make sure they will not be, Tekulve said about the Edmonsons. Unfortunately, this isnt the first time and will not be the last time that my office has had to seek indictment for people like this who pretend to be parents. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A decades-old cold case murder has been solved after the killer was fatally shot by police in a shootout at an Ohio motel last month. For 43 years, the murder of Debra Miller haunted the town of Mansfield. The 18-year-old waitress was found brutally beaten to death in her apartment on April 29, 1981. Her case remained a mystery, until now. Police in Mansfield say Miller was killed by James Vanest, a 68-year-old suspect killed last month during a shootout with police in Stark County, who has now been linked through DNA analysis to Millers slaying. open image in gallery James Vanest, 68, died in a shootout with police ( Mansfield Police Department ) "The DNA evidence collected from multiple items, when analyzed alongside the findings in Mansfield police detective Terry Butlers investigation, establishes proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Vanest committed the murder of Debra Miller on April 29, 1981," Mansfield Police Chief Jason Bammann said on Monday, according to WJW. "Because of this, we now consider the case closed. Vanest, who was 25 years old and living in the same apartment building as Miller at the time of the killing, had been questioned during the initial investigation but was never identified as a suspect. DNA evidence that was collected from the scene had been carefully preserved in storage for the past four decades. It showed the level of brutality and how hard Miller fought for her life, investigators said. We were looking at things that the victim was bound up with. We were looking at bodily fluids, including the blood that was found there, Richland County Assistant Prosecutor Chris Brown said during a press conference on Monday. We also talked about what we perceived to be the murder weapons, which in this case were pots, pans and oven grates. Vanest was interviewed again in 2021, where he admitted that he lied to investigators about the story he previously told them about chasing a homeless man away from Millers door on the night of her murder. He had claimed that she invited him inside and that she was fine when he left her building. The same year, investigators were able to identify a link between the DNA evidence and Vanest with the help of modern technology. open image in gallery Debra Miller, 18, was beaten to death inside her Ohio apartment in 1981 ( Mansfield Police Department ) When investigators attempted to question Vanest in June 2024, he refused, sold his home in Canton, bought a pickup truck and trailer and fled to West Virginia. He was arrested and indicted on federal weapons charges. Vanest posted bond and returned to Stark County where he hid out at the Rodeway Inn in Jackson Township. When authorities attempted to serve an indictment on federal gun charges, he barricaded himself inside and exchanged fire with the authorities. During the shootout, Vanest was fatally shot by one of the members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force and the Canton Regional SWAT team. This is a sad and tragic case, Chief Bammann said. Although, the closing of this case does not bring Debra back and it does not replace the last 43 years that this family has had to endure. However, we hope this closing of the case brings some closure to them finally. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A 57-year-old New Jersey woman has been identified as the woman who was set on fire and burned to death on a New York City subway car. Debrina Kawam, of Toms River, New Jersey, was sleeping inside a train car at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn on December 22 when the horrific incident occurred. Authorities previously said they were using forensics and video surveillance to identify the victim. They named her on Tuesday. Sebastian Zapeta is facing state murder charges over the harrowing attack, with a criminal complaint alleging that the 33-year-old used a shirt to fan the flames after setting Kawam alight. open image in gallery Sebastian Zapeta has been charged with murder over the burning death of the woman, who was identified by police on Tuesday as Debrina Kawam of New Jersey ( AP ) After setting the fire, Zapeta then sat on a bench on the platform and watched as she burned, prosecutors alleged. Kawam was pronounced dead at the scene. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said on Tuesday that Kawam had a brief stint in our homeless shelter system and that authorities had been in contact with her next of kin. He did not say when Kawam was in the homeless system. Hearts go out to the family, a horrific incident to have to live through, Adams said at an unrelated press briefing. It impacts on how New Yorkers feel. But it really reinforces what Ive been saying: People should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care. No matter where she lived that should not have happened. Police took Zapeta into custody while he was riding a train on the same line subway later that day, after three high schoolers called 911 having recognized him in the image released by authorities. open image in gallery The suspect faces one count of first-degree murder and other charges in connection to the shocking incident ( FNTV ) Zapeta told investigators that he had drunk liquor and did not know what had happened. However, he did identify himself in photos and surveillance video showing the fire being lit. Zapeta faces one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said at a press conference that the full indictment against Zapeta will remain under seal until he is arraigned on the new charges on January 7. Gonzalez added that state charges had been brought to ensure that the maximum penalty could be sought for the heinous crime. Federal immigration officials said that the Guatemalan citizen was previously deported in 2018 but returned to the U.S. illegally sometime after that. On Friday, Zapeta waived his right to a court appearance and will remain jailed at New Yorks Rikers Island complex ahead of his arraignment next month. This article has been updated after police clarified the victims age. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy After news of President Jimmy Carters passing broke, Texas Governor Greg Abbott sent his condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter, the presidents wife who died over a year ago. Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family, Abbotts statement read on Sunday. Cecilia and I mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter alongside millions of Americans across the country. Our nation remains the greatest beacon of freedom and opportunity in the world because of our fearless chief executives who are our guiding force through the best and worst of times. For that, we owe President Carter our enduring gratitude for his service as the 39th President of the United States. Having led a life marked by selfless service to the American people, President Carter leaves behind a great legacy as a husband, father, naval officer, governor, and Nobel prize winner, and he will be greatly missed by many. The Republican governor issued another statement to X about two hours after the gaffe was released. The updated statement was amended to read: Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to the entire Carter family. open image in gallery Rosalynn Carter (center) and her family. Left to right: Judy (Jack Carters wife); Jason James Carter; Jack Carter; Annette ( Jeff Carters Wife); Jeff Carter; Rosalynn Carter; Amy Carter; President Jimmy Carter; Caron Griffin Carter(Chip Carters wife) holding James Earl Carter IV; Chip Carter ( Corbis via Getty Images ) Rosalynn Carter died in November 2023 at the age of 96 at the Carter family home in Plains, Georgia, while her husband, the longest-living president, died on Sunday, also at home. He was 100 years old and had been in hospice care since February 2023, a decision supported by his family and medical team. The presidents funeral will be held on January 9 at the Washington National Cathedral. Carter will have private and state funerals in addition to lying in state at the US Capitol. He will interred in Plains, Georgia following the ceremonies. X commentators were quick to pounce on the Republican governor. Did anyone in the governors office proof the condolence note? The Texas Democrats of Collin County asked. Other X users called Abbott a moron and called for him to have a cognitive test. Its not clear if Abbott and Carter ever met. Carter was the last Democratic presidential candidate to win Texas. Other Texas political leaders, including former Republican President George W Bush, expressed their sympathies over Carters passing. Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy, and the entire Carter family, the former president said. open image in gallery Former President Jimmy Carter, right, and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, left, help build a Habitat for Humanity house in Louisiana in 2007 ( AP2007 ) James Earl Carter, Jr, was a man of deeply held convictions. He was loyal to his family, his community, and his country. President Carter dignified the office. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didnt end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and The Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations. We join our fellow citizens in giving thanks for Jimmy Carter and in prayer for his family. Speaking to reporters in the US Virgin Islands during his final vacation in office, President Joe Biden called Carter a decent man and urged his successor, President-elect Donald Trump, to learn something from his legacy. Jimmy Carter stands as a model for it means to live a life of meaning and purpose, he said. Carter won The Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his decades of efforts to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts. For more than 35 years, Carter worked to advance the lives of the poor by building homes through Habitat for Humanity. He and his wife also created The Carter Center in 1982, a nonprofit committed to human rights and ending human suffering. Biden said it was wrong to see Carter as a reflection of a bygone era. We could all do well to be a little more like Jimmy Carter, he said. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A prisoner who has been held at Guantanamo Bay since the day it opened over 20 years ago has been released, the Pentagon said. Ridah bin Saleh al-Yazidis transfer back to Tunisia was approved more than a decade ago, and he was never charged, but authorities have only just confirmed his repatriation. The 59-year-old spent years in the notorious prison because deals could not be made to repatriate or resettle him, according to TheNew York Times. In a secret operation, al-Yazidi was airlifted from the military base, the paper reported. Al-Yazidi, who was sent to the prison on January 11, 2002, is one of the prisoners pictured kneeling in an iconic photo from the facility. He is the last of a dozen Tunisian men once held at Guantanamo. Of those remaining, seven face active cases. In a statement, the U.S. military said it had worked with authorities in Tunisia for the responsible transfer of al-Yazidi. open image in gallery Al-Yazidi was pictured with other prisoners being processed at Guantanamo Bay on January 11, 2002 ( Getty Images ) Al-Yazidi was captured with a group by Pakistani forces near the Afghan border in December 2001, according to the Times, citing a 2007 prison assessment. Some of the group were suspected of being bodyguards to Osama Bin Laden. He was described in the assessment as a dangerous detainee, who was hostile to guards at the prison and threw a cup of tea at a U.S. soldier, according to the Times. By 2010, it was deemed by an Obama administration task force that Al-Yazidi could not be prosecuted for war crimes and was eligible for release to another country. A former State Department staffer who arranged prisoner and detainee transfers told the Times that the delay was due to Tunisia being deemed too dangerous or the nation was uninterested in taking Al-Yazidi. open image in gallery A photo released on 18 January 2002 by the Department of Defense shows U.S. Army military police escorting a detainee to his cell ( Getty ) He could have been gone a while ago but for Tunisian foot-dragging, Ian Moss told the newspaper. Many imprisoned at Guantanamo over the years were subjected to torture, including waterboarding, sleep deprivation, sexual harassment and physical abuse. Some were also tortured at CIA black sites prior to their arrival. Barack Obama issued an executive order to close the facility on his second day in the White House in 2009 and the prison population was reduced from 245 to 41 detainees during his two terms in office. However, Obama ultimately failed to close down the facility. The Biden administration has since moved to reduce the population in the prison. There are now 26 men being held at Guantanamo, down from a peak population of about 700 Muslim men detained abroad and brought to the military facility in the years after the September 11 attacks. Two of the 26 have been convicted and sentenced by the military commission. The Biden administration, pressed by rights groups to free remaining Guantanamo detainees held without charge, transferred out three other men this month. The U.S. says it is searching for suitable and stable countries willing to receive the remaining 14. The Associated Press contributed reporting The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Much of the country will be ringing in a very soggy 2025 this New Years Eve. In New York City, where the ball will drop before a crowd of a million people at the iconic Times Square, temperatures are expected to be in the upper 40s to low 50s at midnight. Forecasters warned that the probability of precipitation would increase throughout the evening, as the system moves into the Northeast and over the eastern U.S. We expect rain to move into midtown Manhattan sometime between 5 and 7 p.m. on New Years Eve and continue until 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. that night," AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex Duffus said in a statement. "The rain will be heavy at times, and people standing in Times Square will get soaked during the evening." open image in gallery People pose for photos as they throw confetti ahead of New Years Eve on Sunday in New York Citys Times Square. One million visitors are expected to mark the holiday there ( AP Photo/Heather Khalifa ) There may even be lightning, according to the media forecasting company. It also said rain was likely from the Midwest to southern New England, and down to North Carolina. Thunderstorms are most likely across New Jersey on Tuesday, but no snow was forecast in the region. In the Pacific Northwest, which celebrates three hours later, some precipitation is also forecast to continue into Tuesday night. Showers were moving across northwestern Oregon and southwestern Washington on Monday, with some small hail. open image in gallery The 2025 New Years Eve numerals are displayed in Times Square earlier this month in New York City. Thunderstorms were also expected to impact neighboring New Jersey on New Years Eve ( AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File ) Flood advisories were issued along the California coast on Monday, and temperatures were expected to fall. But, rain wasnt expected in San Francisco until Friday. Unfortunately for Los Angeles County and southern California, increased winds have resulted in a fire weather watch from Tuesday through Thursday. The risk could become critical through mid-week, and wind advisories and a red flag warning were posted in the area. Only a handful of states could see some snowfall for the holiday. open image in gallery AccuWeathers national New Years Eve forecast predicts a wet holiday for much of the eastern US. Cool and dry conditions are expected in the West ( AccuWeather ) In the nearby western states of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, some snow is anticipated through Wednesday. The Great Lakes will continue to see lake-effect and lake-enhanced snows, which will spread into the northern and central Appalachians. Some mixed precipitation is forecast in central New England. While weather in most of the central and southern U.S. will remain mild and dry, overnight temperatures will be cold in the northern Plains. By next year, frigid cold weather is expected to grip the majority of the nation. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy More than 1.3 million people living in Puerto Rico sat in darkness Tuesday morning after a sweeping blackout washed over the island. As the country awoke to celebrate New Years Eve, a blackout hit, leaving people without electrical appliances, air conditioning, lights and more. Luma Energy, the private company that oversees electricity transmission and distribution, said on X that the cause of the outage is under investigation but preliminary findings suggest a fault on an underground line. Restoring power could take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. open image in gallery Millions of people in Puerto Rico awoke without power on Tuesday after a sweeping blackout took out most electrical power ( AFP via Getty Images ) As of 10:20 a.m. ET, less than 13 percent of Luma Energy customers had power, according to an online tracker. It had to be on the 31st of December! exclaimed one man, who only gave his name as Manuel, as he stood outside a grocery store in the capital of San Juan, grumbling about the outage that coincided with his birthday. There is no happiness.. A spokesperson for Genera PR, which oversees power generation, did not immediately respond to a request for comment by the Associated Press. With no idea when power would return, Puerto Ricans began to think ahead. I'll go to my balcony. That's where I'll sleep, Raul Pacheco said with a resigned shrug, as the 63-year-old diabetic sat on a walker nursing an injured foot. Julio Cordova, a municipal worker who was raking leaves on a nearby sidewalk, said he got dressed by the light of his cellphone and planned to buy candles. This affects me because I had plans. It couldn't have been yesterday or tomorrow?" he said as he shook his head. While blackouts are rare in Puerto Rico, the island continues to struggle with chronic power outages blamed on a crumbling power grid that was razed by Hurricane Maria, a powerful category 4 storm that struck the island in September 2017. The system, however, was already in decline prior to the storm given years of lack of maintenance and investment. In June, Puerto Rico suffered a large blackout that left approximately 350,000 customers without power. open image in gallery An intersection without stop lights is seen in the dark in San Juan, Puerto Rico after a major power outage hit the island on December 31 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Some Puerto Ricans took the latest outage in stride. They're part of my everyday life, said Enid Nunez, 49, who said she ate breakfast before work thanks to a small gas stove she bought for such events. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy At least two dozen United Airlines employees fell ill after eating company-provided meals at Denver International Airport on Christmas Day. Twenty-four employees reported symptoms consistent with food poisoning after United Airlines passed out nearly 500 holiday meals to workers last week, according to local officials with the Association of Flight Attendants union. This illness has not impacted the companys operation, a United Airlines spokesperson said. United is monitoring reports from some employees about gastrointestinal symptoms following holiday meals served to Denver employees last Wednesday, and we are in contact with health authorities, the spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent. The union previously reported that more than 200 employees fell ill before amending their count to just 24, local outlet Denver7 reports. open image in gallery United Airlines is now monitoring reports of the illnesses reported by employees who ate the meals at Denver International Airport ( Getty Images ) While there is no way to know for sure if this was food poisoning since there are viruses going around that produce similar symptoms, local [airport] management have assured methey will be monitoring this issue, said Chris Bruton, the unions local executive council president for Denver International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Norovirus, an extremely contagious virus that causes similar symptoms to food poisoning, is surging in the US this holiday season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. The virus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the country, according to the CDC. A United Airlines employee who reported nausea and diarrhea after eating the meal told Denver7 he and other workers were concerned about calling out sick. The employee, whose name was withheld by the outlet, said the airline has a strict holiday sick leave policy and requires a specific doctors note, also known as a Holiday Absence Certificate, within 48 hours of calling out. If they dont meet this requirement, the employee said, they could face repercussions like performance warnings. The union told employees that if they report symptoms consistent with food poisoning after eating the meals, they will not be required to fill out a Holiday Absence Certificate if they need to remain home from work. Its one of the busiest times of year for travel companies. The American Automobile Association predicts 119 million people will travel at least 50 miles away from home between December 21 and January 1. Meanwhile, the trade group Airlines for America said US airlines will carry around 54 million passengers from December 19 to Monday, Jan. 6, an increase from 2023. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy President Joe Bidens suggestion that President-elect Donald Trump could learn decency from former president Jimmy Carter led to outrage and a meltdown on Fox News Outnumbered on Monday. Its a shame and its embarrassing for Joe Biden, Tammy Bruce, a Fox News contributor, said during the segment. Joe Biden will be known for just being a failed president and an indecent man, Fox News political analyst Lisa Boothe added. I think hes just going to continue to go out looking like a bitter old man, Dr. Nicole Saphier, another Fox News contributor, said. Fox News co-hosts lambasted President Joe Biden for suggesting Donald Trump should learn decency from former president Jimmy Carter ( Fox News / Outnumbered ) For nearly seven minutes, the Outnumbered co-hosts unleashed angry comments about the president for doling out advice to the incoming president. Bidens comment about Trump learning decency from Carter was in response to a question from a reporter who asked what the president-elect should learn from Carter, who died on Sunday at 100. Decency. Decency. Decency, Biden began. Everybody deserves a shot, everybody. Can you imagine Jimmy Carter walking by someone who needed something and just keeping (sic) walking? Can you imagine Jimmy Carter referring to someone by the way they look or talk? I cant. Carter, though often criticized for his one-term presidency, is remembered for his humanitarian work and dedication to helping those in need. He was a longtime volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, helped eradicate guinea worm disease, traveled worldwide to try to broker peace in war-torn countries and more. In response to his death, Trump sent condolences to the Carter family and acknowledged Carters efforts to make America a better place however, he also stated that he strongly disagreed with [Carter] philosophically and politically. Trump has often mocked Carter during his rallies and insinuated he was unintelligent and a bad president. But the Outnumbered co-hosts said Biden was out of line with his jab at Trump. Ive said before on this program and other places and weve known for 50 years Joe Biden has been a jerk. So perhaps he should take some of his own advice with whats happened to this country, Bruce said. Bruce insinuated Bidens remark was made out of bitterness for the 2024 election results. American people have made their decision, we are all Americans, were moving forward, we will disagree politically and philosophically, she added. Saphier agreed, saying Bidens remark was really upsetting to watch. She suggested people should only say positive things about those who have died or not say anything at all. Before suggesting Trump learn decency from Carter, Biden gave several public statements celebrating Carters life and reflecting on his impact. Biden is expected to deliver Carters eulogy at his funeral in January. It is unclear if Trump will attend Carters funeral. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman has said he expects Donald Trump to privatize two of the nations biggest government-owned mortgage lenders. The Trump-supporting financier said he believes the president-elect will remove lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac formally the Federal National Mortgage Association and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation from conservatorship during his second administration, he wrote in a post on X. The move would potentially make them private companies again, which Ackman said would generate $300 billion of additional profits to the federal government if successful. Ackman, a major shareholder of Fannie Mae, said there is a credible path to remove the companies from conservatorship in the next two years with Trump at the helm. During Trumps first term, Secretary Mnuchin took steps toward this outcome, but he ran out of time, Ackman said. I expect that in the second @realDonaldTrump administration, Trump and his team will get the job done. Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman, a Trump ally, said he expects the president-elect to privatize two major government-owned mortgage lenders ( Getty Images ) Trump likes big deals and this would be the biggest deal in history, Ackman added. I am confident he will get it done. He conceded that there remains a high degree of uncertainty about the ultimate outcome in a warning to his followers. After Ackmans post, shares of both companies enjoyed a boost, with Fannie Mae rising 18.4 percent and Freddie Mac up 18 percent. The companies are two of the biggest backers of mortgages in the U.S. Following the housing market collapse in the 2008 crash, the companies suffered huge losses and were placed in conservatorship under the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Ackman is a Trump ally who previously celebrated the president-elects proposals to introduce trade tariffs on products from Mexico and Canada by 25 percent. To be clear, according to Trump the 25% tariffs will not be implemented, or if implemented will be removed, once Mexico and Canada stop the flow of illegal immigrants and fentanyl into the U.S., Ackman wrote on X after the announcement. In other words, @realDonaldTrump is going to use tariffs as a weapon to achieve economic and political outcomes which are in the best interest of America, fulfilling his America first policy. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The US Treasury has been hacked by suspected Chinese actors that accessed government workstations and unclassified documents, officials said. The department made the revelation on Monday after being notified on 8 December by third-party software provider BeyondTrust that the hackers had accessed a security key to get past safety measures, The Washington Post reported. The Treasury notified the Senate Banking Committee of the breach in a letter viewed by several media outlets. It called the breach a major incident. Department policy categorises nation state hacking incidents as major, according to the letter. When the Treasury was notified of the incident, it reached out to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, or CISA, and took the BeyondTrust service offline, a department spokesperson said, according to The Post. The department didnt say how many workstations had been accessed or what kind of documents the hackers could have obtained. But in its letter to lawmakers, the department said at this time there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury information. Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds, the department said. Over the last four years, Treasury has significantly bolstered its cyber defense, and we will continue to work with both private and public sector partners to protect our financial system from threat actors. The US Department of Treasury building ( Getty ) Assistant treasury secretary Aditi Hardikar noted in Mondays letter that it was working with CISA as well as the FBI but didnt say anything further other than the hack had been attributed to Chinese actors. Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a Chinese state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat actor, Hardikar said in the letter, according to CNN. With access to the stolen key, the threat actor was able to override the services security, remotely access certain Treasury user workstations, and access certain unclassified documents maintained by those users, Hardikar added. CISA was engaged immediately upon Treasurys knowledge of the attack, and the remaining governing bodies were contacted as soon as the scope of the attack became evident. The Chinese embassy denied the allegations, calling them baseless and part of a smear campaign. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington said Beijing firmly opposes the USs smear attacks against China without any factual basis. The Treasury plans to provide further details to lawmakers in 30 days. A spokesperson for BeyondTrust, based in Johns Creek, Georgia, told Reuters in an email that the company previously identified and took measures to address a security incident in early December 2024 involving its remote support product. BeyondTrust notified the limited number of customers who were involved as well as law enforcement, the spokesperson said. BeyondTrust has been supporting the investigative efforts. Tom Hegel, a threat researcher at cybersecurity company SentinelOne, said the reported security incident fits a well-documented pattern of operations by PRC-linked groups, with a particular focus on abusing trusted third-party services a method that has become increasingly prominent in recent years. Additional reporting by agencies. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Donald Trump Jrs rumored new girlfriend Bettina Anderson appeared to take a swipe at her critics after she was spotted dining with the president-elects eldest son at a Mar-a-Lago Christmas feast. Earlier this month, the 46-year-old political scion appeared to end his engagement to fiancee Kimberley Guilfoyle. Amidst reports of the break-up, Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host, was tapped to be Donald Trumps incoming ambassador to Greece. As the rumor mill whirls in the wake of the new relationship, Anderson, a 38-year-old model and Palm Beach socialite, took to Instagram to share a defiant message with her dissenters, posting a video of a narrator quoting the book of Exodus from the Bible. So let them lie. Let them manipulate. Let them talk. You just be still, because when God is on your side, who can stand against you?, the speaker said in the now disappeared clip from her Instagram story, seen by the Irish Star. open image in gallery Bettina Anderson was spotted dining with Donald Trump Jr in a southern Florida restaurant in September ( Getty Images for FIGUE ) The post comes after Don Jr and Anderson attended the Trump Christmas day celebrations at Mar-a-lago, his Palm Beach, Florida, resort, together and was photographed sitting next to the incoming First Lady Melania and their 18-year-old son Barron. It follows a string of sightings ranging back to September when the pair were seen dining together in a restaurant near Trumps south Florida residence. Earlier this month, Don Jr and Anderson were photographed holding hands, fueling speculation about the status of his relationship with Guilfoyle. The couple, who began dating in 2018 after Don Jr ended his 13-year marriage to Vannessa Trump, with whom he shares five children. Guilfoyle and Don Jr, who announced their engagement in 2020, had not been seen together since November 12. open image in gallery Donlald Trump Jr (R), next to his father Donald Trump (L), has reportedly split from his fiancee, Kimberley Guilfoyle ( AP ) The reports have led to some of the president-elects inner circle being said to fear Don Jrs new girlfriends credentials dont quite hit the mark. One insider refuted claims that she was a big Republican, claiming she wasnt MAGA to begin with, according to the Daily Mail. A source also told The Mail that Anderson plans to attend Trumps inauguration on January 20, 2025, besides Don Jr. Anderson previously voiced her support for the Black Lives Matter movement and appeared to encourage followers to follow Covid protocols in 2020, posting a picture of herself to Facebook sporting a face mask and holding up a sign which reads: Only you can stop the spread of ignorance. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Elon Musk is getting closer and closer to Donald Trump, quite literally, with a new report that the tech billionire is currently renting a cottage on the grounds of the president-elects Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida. According to The New York Times, Musk is staying at Banyan a cottage located just several hundred feet from the main house of the estate which costs at least $2,000 to stay in per night, per sources with knowledge of the costs. The news comes as concerns continue to grow in Washington about the extent of the SpaceX bosss influence over Trump, having sat in on personnel meetings, conducted talks with foreign leaders and helped to tank a bipartisan spending bill in congress. open image in gallery Musk is reportedly staying at Banyan a cottage located just several hundred feet from Trumps main house which costs at least $2,000 to stay in per night ( AFP/Getty ) The president-elect has boasted that the worlds richest man is renting one of the residential spaces at Mar-a-Lago. The property contains multiple cottages that have reportedly been used by others in Trumps inner circle, including Vice President-elect JD Vance, during the transition period. The Times reports that Musk moved into the cottage around Election Day and watched the results at Mar-a-Lago with Trump and other MAGA cheerleaders including Marjorie Taylor Greene. He left the property around Christmas and has been expected to return some time in the New Year. It is unclear how much the tech boss is paying for the cottage, though guests at the Mar-a-Lago club are typically not billed until the end of the stay. open image in gallery A US Coast Guard boat manned by armed officers patrols the Lake Worth Lagoon off Mar-a-Lago ( AFP/Getty ) The ultimate cost of Musks stay may come down to the president-elect. The best buddy relationship between the pair appears to be going strong. Last week Trump posted what appeared to be a personal message to Musk on Truth Social, claiming that fellow billionaire Bill Gates asked to come to Mar-a-Lago. Where are you? When are you coming to the Center of the Universe, Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Years Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! Trump wrote. He signed it DJT. open image in gallery The story comes as concerns continue to grow in Washington about the extent of the SpaceX bosss influence over Trump ( AFP/Getty ) X appears to have been a reference to Musks son, X A-Xii, who he calls X for short, While staying at Mar-a-Lago, Musk has been accompanied by at least two of his children though he is reported to have at least 11 and their nannies. The Times also reported that the Tesla boss is known to make inconvenient requests like meals outside the normal kitchen hours. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Don Lemons gleeful and profane celebration of the ongoing MAGA squabble over H-1B visas left several Fox News personalities outraged on Tuesday, with one panelist fuming whether the former CNN star thought her Donald Trump-supporting parents were stupid. During a recent broadcast of his YouTube show, Lemon joked that MAGA-land was in a civil war, noting that America First hardliners have been raging against tech bros Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy for advocating for more skilled immigrant workers. The president-elect, meanwhile, has recently come out in support of the special visa program, siding with his first buddy Musk. Lemon noted that the MAGA flashpoint started last week with Trumps appointment of Sriram Krishnan as a senior adviser on artificial intelligence, pointing out that Krishnans advocacy for removing caps on green cards for skilled laborers sparked anti-Indian backlash among Trumps far-right base. We cant do the immigration because, you know, the immigration it triggers some people, Lemon mocked. You know what theyre saying about the anti-immigration stuff, right? Whos to say that one of the jobs you might be seeking wont be one of those white jobs? Fox News panelist Kara Frederick wonders if Don Lemon was calling her parents stupid when he profanely mocked MAGA supporters over the H-1B squabble. ( Fox News ) Laughing hysterically throughout, Lemon quipped that MAGA had been co-opted by billionaires Musk and Ramaswamy, who Trump has also tasked with leading a meme-based government efficiency advisory committee. And now theyre figuring out that without these people, we cannot do our tech jobs! But guess who knew that? The tech bros knew that. The folks who are supporting Donald Trump. The folks who you want to put in charge of the DOGE already knew that! Lemon cackled. Oh my gosh, I love this. Now youre finding out, you dumb f***ing idiots. Now youre just figuring this sh*t out. Youre so f***ing stupid, and you deserve it, he continued. Yes. I am gloating over your stupidity and how you were taken. Im cracking. Im cackling. I am! You have been co-opted because youre in a f***ing cult, and you dont even realize it, because you have stupid MAGA brain and you dont get it. How stupid and dumb are you?! Needless to say, considering Fox News reputation of being an outrage machine, Lemons remarks triggered an on-air meltdown on Tuesday. Comparing Lemons profane mockery to Hillary Clintons infamous deplorables remarks, something Fox News has done repeatedly with other comments made by liberals, Fox News contributor Joe Concha agreed that it was bad politics before going on a tirade against the ex-CNN anchor. If you want to go after Donald Trump or any Republican, fine, fair game, Concha huffed. But when you start going after their supporters, all 78 million, that may turn people off. You would think people would have learned from what happened to Hillary Clinton. Concha added: Don Lemon talking about how stupid Trump supporters are. Thats what desperation sounds like. The kind of desperation from a guy begging for someone, anyone, to pay attention to him. And, by the way, he let the veil down. We were told he was a serious journalist asking serious questions without fear or favor to party. During the midday panel show Outnumbered, anchor Lauren Simonetti groused that it was an insult after insult, and it ended quite viciously. She also claimed that Lemon was living in an echo chamber and didnt seem to get what the country is telling him after the election. Heritage Foundation Tech Policy Center Director Kara Frederick, meanwhile, took Lemons ridicule of MAGA supporters personally. This is the stuff that millions of Americans had in their head that made them crawl over broken glass to vote for Donald Trump, she exclaimed. Maybe speaking from personal experience at that time. You know, my dad, who spent 32 years in the Marine Corps is he stupid? My mom, who devoted her entire life to supporting my dads military career and her children, is she stupid?! Does she deserve that? No! Like Concha the hour before, Frederick also compared Lemons remarks to Clintons deplorables moment, adding that if liberals want to keep doing that, then Democrats will keep losing elections. Fox News contributor Nicole Parker would later agree with Simonetti that this was a losing strategy for Democrats, claiming that she had friends who were previously on the Never Trump list who came around and voted for the incoming president this past November. Simonetti added that while liberals try to understand why voters gravitated towards Trump this election cycle, all they do is keep insulting people that voted for the president-elect. So its like, just take a minute, pause and understand whats going on around you and stop with the vicious insults, she concluded. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Staffers are reporting a depressing mood around the White House in the final weeks of Joe Bidens term as the president works to cement his legacy and reflects on the 2024 election. With less than one month until President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20, White House aides told The Wall Street Journal the mood at work is draining and depressing. Biden has also expressed that he could have defeated Trump in November, the Journal reports. Entrepreneur Joe Kiani, a major Democratic donor and friend to Biden, told the Journal, if he ran, he really thought he was going to win. By not running, he was worried Trump would win, Kiani said. He just didnt want to win at any cost. Bidens belief, however, is not a critique of Vice President Kamala Harriss campaign, the Journal reports. Rather, Biden believes that because he beat Trump once, he could have done it again. Harriss allies, meanwhile, told the Journal a few extra weeks on the campaign trail couldve made the difference on Election Day. White House staffers described the mood at work as depressing and draining following President-elect Donald Trumps victory in November, according to a new report ( AFP via Getty Images ) It took Biden nearly one month to drop out of the 2024 race after his poor debate performance against Trump on June 27. When he exited the race on July 21 following mounting calls from his party to do so, he left Harris just over three months to build and execute a campaign to rival Trump. Trump dominated Harris in battleground states, and the vice president ultimately lost the popular vote by more than 2 million. Biden is also working to cement his legacy after a political career that spans more than 50 years, the Journal reports. The president has infused even banal White House events with retrospectives on his time in office and started sketching out the plans for his presidential library in Delaware, according to the outlet. White House Spokesperson Andrew Bates told the Journal the president isnt spending his time litigating the election or engaging in counterfactuals. Instead, Biden and Harris are focused on delivering as many additional results for hardworking families as they can while finalizing the most groundbreaking record of any modern administration. Bates added that Biden admired his vice presidents campaign, while a spokesperson for Harris told the Journal the two still have a close working relationship. Biden Pledges $2.5 Billion in Military Aid for Ukraine Before Leaving Office The Independent has contacted the White House for comment. This isnt the first time reports have indicated Biden regrets how the 2024 presidential election played out. Last week, sources told The Washington Post Biden recently said he is confident he could have defeated Trump in November. Despite this, he has also admitted to making mistakes throughout his presidency. The president has privately expressed regret over appointing Merrick Garland as attorney general, saying he was too slow to prosecute Trump over the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots, the Post reported. Biden has also admitted to screwing up the debate with Trump, though noted he does not regret participating, according to the Post. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Mike Johnson is days away from facing the music as the House of Representatives is set to meet and elect a new speaker for the 119th Congress. The Trump loyalists term as speaker began after he emerged as a consensus candidate last fall, thanks to his ability to win over both moderates and institutionalist Republicans while also maintaining friendly(ish) ties with his partys frenzied right wing. His election occurred after the chamber was shut down for nearly a month following the ouster of Kevin McCarthy, his predecessor, from the speakers chair by a rebellion within the GOP caucus. The congressman from Louisiana has maintained shaky control of his caucus since late October of last year, buoyed in part by a weariness resulting from that chaotic speakerless period. Whether that will continue into the new Congress, however, still remains uncertain. Chip Roy, a Republican representative from Texas known for clashing with both leadership and the MAGA wing of his party over spending issues, made clear on Tuesday that Johnson still has work to do in order to win another term. Right now, I dont believe he has the votes on Friday, the congressman told Fox Business. I remain undecided, as do a number of my colleagues, because we saw so many of the failures last year that we are concerned about that might limit or inhibit our ability to advance the President's agenda, Roy added. open image in gallery Chip Roy, left, stands behind Speaker Mike Johnson, center, at a press conference on the Hill. Roy said Tuesday that he is unsure whether to support Johnsons re-election to the speakership for the upcoming term. ( AP ) His suggestions for Johnsons possible replacement Byron Donalds and Jim Jordan come as no surprise, as both ran unsuccessfully for the position when Johnson clinched the chair. Jordan, an Ohio congressman, in particular is a perennial candidate for the role but has repeatedly failed to win over purple-district Republicans and others aligned with leadership. Jordan, in a Twitter post, indicated his own endorsement of Johnson, though that wouldnt stop him from mounting a bid if it was clear his rival didnt have the votes. Johnsons biggest advantage heading into the vote Friday may be that his critics have yet to come up with a palatable alternative. The power balance has shifted little in the lower chamber of Congress, meaning Republicans will still hold just a single-digit majority in the chamber for the upcoming term. Democrats remain unified in opposition to the election of a GOP speaker, so Johnson will need to unify his caucus in order to keep his job. Donald Trumps endorsement is no small factor either. The support of the president-elect could be enough to move Trump loyalists like Anna Paulina Luna, who told reporters last month that she was undecided, back into Johnsons camp. It could also backfire, making Johnson increasingly reliant on the president-elect (though that ship may already have sailed). Another big advantage: the absence of Matt Gaetz. The former Florida congressman resigned his seat last month just days before the expected release of a report by the House Ethics Committee that found evidence he paid for sex with a minor in 2017, claims Gaetz denies. His resignation was timed with a last-minute bid to become Trumps attorney general. Gaetz was the leader of the group of Republicans who ousted McCarthy last year, and the end of his congressional career moves one chaos agent off the board as Johnson seeks to keep a large and unruly caucus in line. open image in gallery Matt Gaetz led a successful effort to oust Kevin McCarthy before resigning his own seat a year later to head off release of a report which found that he paid a minor for sex in 2017, which he denies. ( REUTERS ) Marjorie Taylor Greene, who tried unsuccessfully to repeat Gaetzs performance against Johnson earlier this year, is also quietly backing Johnson, according to Punchbowl News. Republicans tied to leadership, especially longer-serving members, are expected to lean on their caucus to avoid the kind of debacle that unfolded this time in early 2023, when McCarthy required more than a dozen votes in the chamber to secure the speakership. I think it would be a huge mistake to challenge [Johnson] and anybody that thinks what we did last term worked well, I think, is delusional, Tom Cole, chairman of the powerful (and highly sought-after) Appropriations panel, told The Independent after a GOP caucus meeting last month. The challenge got us off to a bad start. It bedeviled things. Getting rid of Speaker McCarthy was a dumb idea. The reality is the people that did it had no exit strategy, no alternative, and it plunged the Congress and the country into chaos for weeks. So I hope we learn from that. The Senate remains another obstacle for any incoming GOP speaker. Though it swung back to Republican control with the November elections, it did so only by a few votes far from a filibuster-proof majority. The new leader of the Republican Senate caucus, John Thune, is not expected to present too much of an obstacle to the Trump administrations legislative agenda but will be a hard sell on any of Trumps more outlandish demands, such as his most recent urgings for his party to cause a government shutdown unless Democrats consented to adding language raising the debt ceiling to a short-term funding measure. Other Republicans are still casting doubt on Johnsons future in public statements, even with Trumps endorsement at his back. Trumps endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan, Thomas Massie of Kentucky told reporters. He explained his frustrations to The Independent last month: [Johnson]s basically a neocon, and Trump, at least in his campaign, is the opposite of that. ... Speaker Johnson is going to have to do a 180 on a lot of the policy that hes shoved down our throats in the House if hes going to support Trumps mandate. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy As the nation gears up for a second Donald Trump presidency, the battle for 2028 has already begun. The president-elect, who has jested numerous times about serving a third term, will not be on the ballot in 2028. I suspect I wont be running again, unless you do something, Trump reportedly told his GOP House colleagues as they met ahead of congressional leadership elections shortly after his election win. Unless you say, Hes so good, we have to just figure it out. Unfortunately for Trump, its a highly unlikely scenario, and so Republicans and Democrats are already looking to their next candidates and the competition is wide open. Here we take a look at some of the top contenders for the 2028 presidency. open image in gallery JD Vance, Kamala Harris, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Donald Trump Jr have all been tipped to run in 2028 ( Getty ) JD Vance The incoming vice president and Ohio senator has emerged as one of the front-runners for the top of the Republican ticket. And in simply becoming vice president Vance, 40, has only increased his chances, Politico noted, given the track record of his predecessors who went on to win their partys presidential primaries Joe Biden, Al Gore, George H.W. Bush and Walter Mondale. Vances emergence from Hillbilly Elegy author and staunch Trump critic to serving as one of the youngest vice presidents in U.S. history in such a short space of time is no small feat. If you think about where he came from and where he is, at forty years old, conservative analyst Yuval Levin told the New Yorker, J.D. is the single most successful member of his generation in American politics. open image in gallery JD Vance has quickly risen through the Republican ranks ( Getty Images ) On the campaign trail, Vances rhetoric often came back to haunt him, and he was unable to escape the childless cat lady comment which resurfaced from a 2021 interview. He also peddled harmful rhetoric about migrants, peddling a baseless rumor that Haitians were eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio. But none of this appeared to harm him when voters went to the polls. And his performance in the vice-presidential debate against Tim Walz only reaffirmed the view that he could emerge the victor in the 2028 Republican primary. Kamala Harris While many might assume that the vice presidents defeat this year counts her out of the running next time, those in Harriss inner circle are reportedly divided over her next move. Top aides believe her ability to raise a cool $1 billion in the surprise race should leave her in pole position, according to CNN, whereas others think her best option is to run for California governor in 2026. open image in gallery Despite losing to Trump, there are some in Harriss circle who believe she could run again ( Getty Images ) The 60-year-olds performance in the presidential debate against Trump was also lauded, and resulted in his refusal to do a second. Whatever the vice president decides to do next, despite the loss to Trump, Harris appears to retain a significant reservoir of devout support, Politico notes, citing a poll that found only 6 percent of voters blame her for the defeat. The outlet cited a second poll which found Harris was the preferred candidate among Democrats for 2028 despite the loss, leading with 41 percent. However, the outlet added the favorable polls should be met with caution, as early primary presidential polls are mainly about name recognition and the race remains wide open at this stage. Donald Trump Jr Don Jr might not be taking a position within his fathers second administration, but he played a significant role in getting the Republican re-elected. Don Jr, 46, helped cement Vance as Trumps pick for the Republican vice presidential nominee, played a role in brokering close ties with Robert F Kennedy Jr and encouraged his father to embrace cryptocurrencies. He also ensured that only loyalists and ideological true believers are given the top jobs, the outlet added. open image in gallery Don Jr could take up the MAGA reins from his father ( REUTERS ) In an interview with Time magazine, Trump hinted that his children could carry on the MAGA dynasty. Referring to Don Jr, the president-elect said I think hed do very well, when asked if he might have a future in politics. I think hes a very capable guy, Trump said. Now, after Lara Trump dropped out of running for the Senate, Don Jr is a likely family member to take over the MAGA reins. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez The New York congresswoman has had an impressive political career, winning a seat in the House when she was just 29. Her name has been floated as a potential contender due to her ability to cut through the BS and tell it like it is, a Democratic strategist told The Hill. Shes somebody who can cut through the noise and doesnt talk like Washington, the strategist added. A former member of Trumps administration has even warned fellow Republicans not to underestimate her. Monica Crowley, a former public affairs official in the Treasury Department during the first Trump administration, said AOC had real grassroots support through her early adoption of social media. With eight million followers on Instagram, one million on TikTok and almost 13 million on X, she has a large national following for a backbencher. open image in gallery AOC has a large social media following and she could engage younger voters ( Getty Images ) The 35-year-old was also the fourth biggest fundraiser among Democratic House candidates in 2023-2024, Politico noted on its profile of the congresswoman, citing data compiled by OpenSecrets. But there are some in the party who are concerned about AOC and the progressive squad. She and the squad started pushing too hard, too fast, another strategist told The Hill. D.C. doesnt work that way. And our party doesnt work that way. We need to get back to the basics. Ocasio-Cortez, however, pushed back against the criticism that Democrats need to move away from woke politics. A lot of folks w/ poor campaign fundamentals are now blaming wokism but havent held a town hall or knocked a door all cycle, she said on BlueSky. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A former national security adviser to Donald Trump has finally acknowledged the existence of climate change, unlike his former boss, to justify a takeover of Greenland, as threatened by the president-elect. Robert OBrien appeared on Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News, suggesting that the U.S. could limit its use of the Panama Canal as the climate gets warmer and turn instead to opening waterways in the Arctic along Greenland. Greenland is a highway from the Arctic all the way to North America, to the United States, OBrien said. Its strategically very important to the Arctic, which is going to be the critical battleground of the future because as the climate gets warmer, the Arctic is going to be a pathway that maybe cuts down on the usage of the Panama Canal. He added: The Russians and the Chinese are all over the Arctic. Now the Danes ... own Greenland. And theyve got an obligation to defend Greenland, and so President Trump said If you dont defend Greenland, well buy it and well defend it, but were not going to defend it for free and let you not develop Greenland and not extract the minerals and oil and resources of Greenland. OBrien went on to say that Denmark is on the frontlines of the war against Russia and China. Theyre like the Baltic states, theyre like Poland because of their vast territory in Greenland, he argued. And so theyve got to defend Greenland, and if they cant defend it, were going to have to, and were not gonna do it for free. In the weeks after winning the election, Trump has suggested making Canada the 51st U.S. state and he has said he is prepared to take over the Panama Canal. Robert O'Brien speaks last year at the Concordia Annual Summit at Sheraton New York in New York City. He has suggested that Greenland is becoming more important as the climate gets warmer ( Getty Images for Concordia Summi ) Trump has also threatened Americas closest neighbors with trade wars, and to take over Greenland, which has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for 600 years. Trump claimed American ownership of Greenland was an absolute necessity for world security and freedom.. This threats come despite Trumps vow to end foreign wars and despite that he made peace through strength a central part of his campaign. But his threat is unlikely to lead to any major changes as leader after leader of the areas in question has staunchly rejected Trumps advances. Jose Raul Mulino, the president of Panama, shot back: Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent zone belongs to Panama and will remain so. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mute Egede said, Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nearly half of Republican voters believe the military should be used to detain undocumented immigrants in camps until they can be deported, a new poll has found. President-elect Donald Trump has already suggested that he would deploy the military to support immigration raids, as well as use a law from 1798 to place immigrants in camps. The nonpartisan Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) found in a recent poll that Trumps base appears to support the plans even as most Americans likely oppose them. While 46 percent of Republicans support deploying the military in the immigrant operations, only 19 percent of independents and eight percent of Democrats back the idea. The survey found that Americans with authoritarian views were about six times more likely to support putting undocumented immigrants in camps, compared to those who dont support authoritarianism, by a margin of 48 percent to eight percent. The poll also found that voters who score very high or high on the Right-Wing Authoritarianism Scale (RWAS) report strongly supporting Trump (82 percent), while those voters who score very low or low overwhelmingly supported [Vice President Kamala] Harris (79 percent), according to PRRI. The president of the polling company was taken aback by the results. There have been questions in the Trump era where Ive thought I cant believe that we need to know the answer to this question, PRRI president and founder Robert Jones told Axios. I guess the good news is that three-quarters of the country rejects this idea that we should be putting immigrants in the country illegally into internment camps guarded by the military, he added. Jones noted that the bad news of the poll is that almost half of those who see themselves as a member of a major political party do support deploying the military to round up immigrants. Migrants and advocates demonstrate at the San Ysidro crossing port on the US-Mexico border in Tijuana, Baja California State, Mexico, on December 18, 2024, during International Migrants Day. Trump has suggested that 21 million people be deported from the U.S. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Trump recently told Time magazine that hes open to using camps to hold immigrants within the U.S. He suggested that 21 million people be deported, something set to require new detention centers, even as studies show there are about 11 million undocumented immigrants in the country. Meanwhile, the Pew Research Center has found that there are about 24.5 million noncitizen immigrants in the country, which includes those awaiting asylum rulings or are in the U.S. legally in other ways. They could be inappropriately and illegally swept up in Trumps crackdown Theres a backlog of some 3.7 million court cases in the immigration system, which, at the current rate, will take four years to complete. Under Trumps policies, that could increase to 16 years, Axios found. Interviews for the survey were conducted online between November 8 and December 2. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A day after Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100, CNN political commentator Scott Jennings tore into the 39th presidents legacy, calling him a terrible president with a big ego while accusing him of dabbling in antisemitism. While world leaders, former presidents, lawmakers, and dignitaries have honored Carters record of public service, humanitarian achievements, and diplomacy, conservative pundits and columnists have criticized him for his one term in the White House. Some have even questioned Carters decency while claiming he was no saint. Jennings, CNNs resident Trump defender whose nightly hot takes recently earned him a position on the LA Times remade editorial board, took the opportunity Monday night to rail against the former president. Specifically, Jennings took issue with Carters post-presidency diplomatic efforts and opinions on foreign affairs. Appearing on CNN NewsNight, Jennings reacted to Carters passing by saying hed first like to offer his condolences to the former presidents family while noting he was obviously one of the most unique post-presidents weve ever had. At the same time, Jennings asserted that Carter was a terrible president, which is why he only served a single term in office. And if its possible, I think he was even a worse ex-president because of his meddling in U.S. foreign policy, because of his saddling up to dictators around the world, because of his vehement views, anti-Israel views, and more than dabbling in antisemitism over the years, Jennings exclaimed. CNN political commentator Scott Jennings bashes the late Jimmy Carter as a terrible president who dabbled in antisemitism." ( CNN ) He often vexed Democrats. Obama didnt even have him speak at his 08 convention, he continued. He put Bill Clinton in a terrible foreign policy box on a North Korea nuclear issue. I think he was a guy who had a huge ego and believed that he was uniquely positioned to do all these things, even after the American people had roundly and soundly rejected his leadership. Jennings further insisted that while he respected anyone who was elected president, Carter time and again proved why he was never suited for the office in the first place. Saying he agreed with Jennings to a certain extent, CNN presidential historian Tim Naftali conceded that Carter was meddlesome with his successors but that alone shouldnt mar the record of global humanitarian good that he did. He further noted that Carter, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, made eradicating the Guinea worm one of his top missions in his later life. For all the meddlesome behavior as a president, which is well documented, I dont think that it outweighs the contribution that he made as a global citizen after he left, Naftali added. Jennings, meanwhile, blasted Carters attempt to convince the United Nations Security Council to drop their support for Americas proposed military actions during the run-up to the Persian Gulf War in 1990. If its not treasonous, its borderline treasonous, Jennings fumed. And so I hear what youre saying about the humanitarianism. But when youre an ex-president, and you have served in that office, I think you have a duty to the United States and only to the United States. And when he did that and other instances, to me, it showed that he cared more about his own legacy than he did about the country. And I think that is wrong. As for Jennings accusations of antisemitism, it appears he is referencing Carters 2006 book Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, which likened Israels occupation of Palestinian territories to South African apartheid. At the time, the book was widely denounced by supporters of Israel. Abe Foxman, the director of the Anti-Defamation League at the time, called Carter a bigot. Others said he had a Jewish problem or just outright called the former president an antisemite. Jimmy Carters sensitivities seem to have a gaping hole when it comes to Jews. There is a term for that, prominent defense attorney and pro-Israel advocate Alan Dershowitz wrote. Carter noted at the time that Palestinian voices were largely shut out over the debate of his book. Peter Beinart, described as a liberal Zionist, said this month that many of the reviews of Carters book in legacy media outlets were written by Jewish Americans. At the same time, he could not find any written by a Palestinian. Additionally, a New York Times article about the reaction to the book only referenced pro-Israel organizations that were highly critical of it. I think there would be something profoundly valuable for some of those folks to apologize to Carter, Beinart said on his Substack. The ability to recognize that you are wrong, that certain facts have made it clear I think that what Carter was saying in 2006 was really ahead of its time, and that Carter was not just right but he was showing a very unusual form of political courage. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Even though it appears that America First hardliners lost the recent dust-up over H-1B worker visas when President-elect Donald Trump seemingly sided with the tech bros, Steve Bannon is still declaring victory over an embarrassing Elon Musk. According to the former Trump strategist, who previously called Musk a toddler after the X (formerly Twitter) owner profanely attacked his right-wing critics, there wasnt a MAGA civil war on immigrant workers because Musk is not tough enough and folded on the issue amid the far-right backlash. While the schism between OG MAGA and Trump-backing tech oligarchs over highly skilled immigrant workers had been roiling all last week, it boiled over when Musk agreed with an X user that Americans were too r*tarded to fill Silicon Valleys need for qualified engineers. The blowback only got worse when he referred to his detractors as hateful unrepentant racists who needed to be removed from the GOP. Musk sparked further derision from anti-immigrant diehards when he paraphrased the 2008 comedy Tropic Thunder by telling critics to take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the face, vowing that he would go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot comprehend. Meanwhile, after staying quiet on the fierce debate fracturing his coalition, Trump finally weighed in over the weekend. In a New York Post interview, the president-elect said he was a believer in H-1B visas and has always been in favor of them despite campaigning against the very bad program in 2016 and restricting access to green cards during his first term. With the incoming president backing his position on skilled immigrant workers, first buddy Musk has sought to take a gentler stance and patch things up with the MAGA base after days of increasingly inflammatory attacks. Steve Bannon tells Laura Loomer on his War Room podcast that theres no MAGA civil war because Elon Musk is not tough enough. ( War Room ) The naturalized American citizen, who claims he used an H-1B visa himself, conceded on Saturday night that the program was broken after a social media user claimed the visas were used to hire low-paid workers. Easily fixed by raising the minimum salary significantly and adding a yearly cost for maintaining the H1-B, making it materially more expensive to hire from overseas than domestically, he said, adding: Ive been very clear that the program is broken and needs major reform. Im confident that the changes made in the @realDonaldTrump administration will make America much stronger. With Musk a notorious Twitter troll also urging his social media platform users to post more positive, beautiful or informative content, Bannon mocked the worlds richest man and other tech moguls for their lack of toughness during a conversation with far-right activist Laura Loomer on Monday. Loomer, the proud Islamophobe who has been at the center of the H-1B debate, raged about the technocrats like Musk who are in Trumps ear, calling them welfare queens because their companies are receiving government subsidies and they want to take over our defense industry. While Loomer who has accused Musk of stripping her X verification privileges as punishment expressed concern that Musk is a national security risk due to his off-the-books meetings with China, she also said the tech bros were trying to inflame a skirmish with Trumps most loyal supporters. I believe that they want this idea of tech feudalism to create so much conflict with the nationalist MAGA base so that it kind of sparks a civil war, which is what its being called now, right? A MAGA civil war, Loomer exclaimed on Bannons War Room podcast. This is not a civil war because theyre not tough enough, Bannon interjected. Theyre just not. They folded I mean, it was embarrassing. The ex-Trump adviser continued to ridicule Musks assertion that he would go to war on the H-1B issue, pointing out that the X owner followed up with a tweet that the program needed to be reformed. While Bannon and other MAGAworld figures are not yet ready to concede any ground to Musk and his allies, Fox News is already suggesting that the civilized debate taking place on the right is over and the real losers are liberals and Democrats. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Donald Trumps plan to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations could provide the legal framework to allow the U.S. to conduct military operations in Mexico, according to experts. For years, the President-elect has threatened to designate cartels that traffic illicit drugs into the U.S. foreign terrorist organizations. That distinction would allow the government to place additional economic and social sanctions on them. Doing so also bolsters the presidents authority to carry out military operations on those involved with a terrorist organization, including foreign states suspected of supporting such organizations. The president can also preemptively deploy military force against terrorist organizations. Undoubtedly, such action would strain the U.S.Mexico relationship by increasing hostility. Former Mexican ambassador to the U.S., Geronimo Gutierrez told El Pais it would set the relationship back three decades. open image in gallery Donald Trump has threatened to take aggressive action against drug trafficking and illegal migrant crossings ( Getty Images ) In 2019, Trump nearly designated Mexican drug cartels as terrorists but backed out after compromising with Mexico. However, earlier this month, the president-elect pitched the idea again, this time at a conference for Turning Point USA in Arizona. "I will immediately designate the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations," Trump said. Were going to do it immediately and unleash the full power of federal law enforcement, ICE, border patrol. Trump campaigned aggressively on combating illegal immigration and drug trafficking, specifically related to fentanyl. He is holding Mexico accountable in the efforts to stop drug influx into the U.S., already promising to enact a 25 percent tariff on Mexican imported goods despite the country being one of the U.S.s largest trading partners. But designating cartels as terrorists would be one step further. Designating cartels as terrorist organizations would be a strategic error with unpredictable consequences for both countries, a senior official at the Mexican Embassy told El Pais. open image in gallery Trumps Agenda47 includes his action plan to destroy drug cartels. By labeling them terrorists, it would allow military operations on Mexican soil. ( Trump campaign ) The purpose of designating an organization as a terrorist organization is primarily to stop the flow of money and allow federal prosecutors to pursue criminal penalties against cartel members and allies. It also provides legal backing for the president to carry out military operations specifically under the Authorization for Use of Military Force of 2001 Act. The broad act supports the president conducting operations against individuals and organizations linked to those who conducted the September 11 attacks. However, it has been widely interpreted to be applied to other terrorist groups. For example, under the act, the Biden administration carried out airstrikes in Somalia as part of an effort to defeat Al-Shabaab, a terrorist group. It does not permit the president to invade or declare war on a country without the approval of Congress. The senior official at the Mexican Embassy said Trumps idea mixes concepts that respond to different dynamics. Organized crime seeks profit, not ideology, and treating it as terrorism only diverts resources and attention from real solutions, the official said. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded Sunday, elevating the need for collaboration between the two countries to fight drug trafficking. We collaborate, we coordinate, we work together, but we will never subordinate ourselves, Sheinbaum said. Mexico is a free, sovereign, independent country and we do not accept interference. It is collaboration, it is coordination, but it is not subordination. And we are going to build peace. The best of Voices delivered to your inbox every week - from controversial columns to expert analysis Sign up for our free weekly Voices newsletter for expert opinion and columns Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy President-elect Donald Trump is not someone who plays down expectations, whether about himself or the United States. And he raises the expectations of others accordingly. His re-entry onto the world stage after his victory in last years election prompted urgent shifts in international dynamics on the part of national leaders around the world, simply in anticipation. From midday on Monday, Mr Trumps power is real. With it comes promise and peril. Four years ago, the inauguration of Joe Biden as US president was greeted, especially in Europe, as heralding a welcome return to normality. By which was meant a re-emphasis on Atlanticism abroad, a respect for the constitution at home, and, above all, a steady, predictable hand on the global tiller. That is not quite how it turned out. From the chaotic end to the US-led intervention in Afghanistan to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the new hostilities in the Middle East, Bidens four years encompassed as much, if not more, destructive disruption as any recent US presidents term. That needs to be borne in mind as Mr Trump enters the White House again. Stuff happens. But Mr Trump is different and not just from his predecessor in both the scope of his personal ambition and how he believes he can use American power, but also in the extent to which his personality dictates the terms and draws the limelight for better and worse. Early proof of the promise his presidency could bring were the joyous scenes that followed the agreement between Israel and Hamas; the celebrations on the streets of Tel Aviv, the festivities even amid the devastation of Gaza, and the rapturous reception, on both sides, for the released captives. The Biden and Trump teams may dispute where the credit lies for this lamentably overdue ceasefire, but Mr Trumps imminent inauguration and the pressure exerted by his envoy on the hitherto immovable Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu are surely part of the explanation. It must be hoped that President Trump we must become used to hearing that combination again can follow through, not only to pre-empt any backsliding by either signatory to this agreement but to ensure that the next stages are honoured, bringing the release of all Hamas hostages, and the possibility of rebuilding in a peace that increasingly embraces the whole region. This will not be easy; Syria, Iran and maybe Turkey are, or could all be, in the throes of change. Mr Trumps other foreign policy projects, as so far outlined, present at least as much peril as promise. He has undertaken to end the war in Ukraine, but he must do so without placing Ukraines future at still greater risk or appearing to acquiesce in the change of national borders by military force. Unpredictability and risk-taking here could have lethal consequences. European members of Nato have been making some efforts to prepare for a time when they might have to take more responsibility for Europes security, but there is a long way still to go. Trump 1.0 raised concerns in the end unwarranted that the US could forsake Europe. There is less alarm over Trump 2.0 but no room for complacency, either. Mr Trump has a keen sense of where power lies, abroad as at home. He has US relations with China in his sights as a priority hence the invitation to President Xi Jinping to his inauguration. Mr Xi himself is not going but he is sending a deputy; the honour, in other words, was recognised, not spurned. Will Mr Trump suspend, or soften, the ban on the Chinese-owned social media app TikTok, if only as a gesture? Is that the right thing to do? Will Mr Trump start a wider trade war with his threat to impose tariffs, or is the threat more by way of a signal from this arch-realist and disruptor that the rest of the world must strike new bargains to protect what he sees as the US national interest? Europe, in particular, must be as much on its guard as it was eight years ago, so as not to be wrong-footed by a US president whose exclusive concern, to a greater extent than many recent predecessors, is the security and prosperity of the United States. This is also how his striking talk about Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal might be taken, as a 21st-century Monroe Doctrine, which sees the US in hemisphere, rather than global, terms. There have been mixed signals about how far Mr Trumps British in fact, Scottish connection could translate into closer, or less close, relations with the UK. With gaps already evident over policy towards Ukraine and the Middle East, not to mention the Chagos Islands, this is already looking to be a delicate relationship, even as it has become more crucial for the UK after Brexit. If, however, as The Independent has reported, the new US administration could decide to reject Sir Keir Starmers nominee for ambassador, that could not but sour relations, while underlining the disparity in power. Lord Mandelson has his flaws but an ambassador with the ear of the prime minister and expertise in trade matters can be an asset for both sides. President Trump is nothing if not his own man, and a respecter of power his own and that of others. The UKs position vis-a-vis the United States under such a president would be stronger, the more it can make common cause with the EU and the European members of Nato. A strong and united voice in Washington from across the Atlantic would be one way, probably the best way, to make the most of Mr Trumps promise, while reducing the peril. Gisele Pelicot believes that change is possible. Speaking outside the courtroom in Avignon in December, where her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot was jailed for 20 years for drugging her and recruiting strangers to rape her, she said she never regretted her selfless decision to waive her right to private legal proceedings. She believed it was important for society to see what is happening. That visibility, she realised, despite the enormous personal cost, was vital in order for real change to happen. I do it on behalf of all women, she has said. Frances worst-ever mass rape trial saw 51 men convicted for a total of 428 years. Dominique Pelicot was jailed for the maximum term of 20 years, having drugged his wife so he and strangers could abuse and rape her while he filmed it. Police found some 20,000 images of the abuse on his computer, as well as pictures of his daughter and his two daughters-in-law. In a case that sent shock waves around the world, Gisele Pelicot emerged as an almost unimaginably courageous symbol of feminist resistance against rape culture. Her insistence that shame must change sides has reverberated internationally, challenging deeply misogynistic assumptions about sexual violence in France and far beyond, galvanising feminist movements, inspiring male allies to speak out and, above all, providing solace and strength to fellow survivors. So great has the impact been, that since Time magazine announced Donald Trump as its Person of the Year, social media has been flooded with posts, mainly created by women, suggesting that the title should have been awarded to Gisele Pelicot instead. Giseles bravery was not only demonstrated by her choice to waive her anonymity and hold the trial in public. She also insisted that the extensive video evidence of the men who had raped her must be played at the trial. It was a personal sacrifice of immense courage, which forced the world to reckon with the brutal reality of what had happened. She revealed that she was at first ashamed of her snoring in the videos, yet this heartbreaking detail was crucial in preventing defence lawyers from trotting out the ridiculous claim that the defendants had believed her to be consenting. Realising how many other women who experience drug-assisted rape would not possess similar proof, Gisele made hers public, and in so doing, she demonstrated to the world that these horrendous, unimaginable, yet everyday acts of misogynistic abuse really do happen. In a world in which so many women are dismissed, disbelieved and ignored when they experience sexual violence, she took a stand for us all. Her bravery also meant that the mundane normality of the male defendants could be brought under a global spotlight, denying her abusers any comfort of anonymity. This enabled a societal reckoning with the uncomfortable reality, long voiced by women but too often ignored, that rapists are not monstrous aberrations but fathers, husbands, neighbours and normal men in our communities. Among them are firefighters, soldiers, a journalist, a nurse, security guards, lorry drivers and a DJ. The youngest of those convicted was just 22 years old and went to the Pelicots house on the night his own daughter was born. open image in gallery Activists at the courthouse in Avignon today ( AFP/Getty ) The public nature of the trial allowed their craven excuses, made by so many men in similar cases, to be exposed to public scrutiny. The ridiculous misogyny of claims made by various defendants was on full display, such as one who claimed: As long as the husband was present, there was no rape, and another of her abusers who stated he felt as much a victim as she was because he did not give his consent to be filmed. In a world in which harmful rape myths still abound, all this allowed such misconceptions to be robustly challenged. The mayor of Mazan, the village where the crimes occurred, told a BBC reporter: I think it could have been much worse When there are kids involved, or women killed, then that is very serious because you cant go back. In this case, the family will have to rebuild itself. It will be hard, but no one died. Such comments are sadly not unusual from authority figures: they remind us of the words of the police and crime commissioner who suggested that women need to be streetwise in an interview following the rape and murder of Sarah Everard. But Giseles bravery in taking such a public stand has enabled these outdated attitudes, held by so many, to be exposed and rebutted. All this more than befits Gisele for the title of Person of 2024. The fact that she was not even shortlisted is galling, but the decision to award the title instead to Donald Trump makes the insult far worse. The juxtaposition is so stark. Trump has reduced women to their genitals, which he happily joked he liked to grab them by, and a jury found him liable for sexually abusing advice columnist E Jean Carroll in 1996, awarding her $5m in a judgment. Yet, in January, he will become one of the most powerful men on the planet. While he thrives on division, Gisele has united a nation in condemnation of male violence and united women around the world in solidarity and opposition to rape culture and violence against women. open image in gallery A court sketch made in Avignon shows Gisele Pelicot during the hearing of the verdict ( AFP/Getty ) Trump is a coward who tried to incite an uprising because he wasnt brave enough to accept defeat. Pelicot, conversely, has demonstrated almost unimaginable bravery. Of course, it will be argued that Time does not intend the title to confer incontrovertible praise: it has described its annual winner as: a person, group, or concept that had the biggest impact for good or for ill on the world over the previous 12 months. But even this raises questions about how we measure impact, about what kind of power counts, what kind of change matters, and to whom. Pelicots courage in the face of unimaginable horror created seismic shock waves around the world. For women across the globe, it matters. What we see when we look at Trumps face on the front of Time is not just Trump. It is the fact that, once again, the issues that affect women and girls so deeply are considered inconsequential: less real, less deserving of note, less relevant to society as a whole. Of course, an empty accolade wont provide Gisele with justice or give her back the years of her life she has lost to egregious deception and abuse. Yet it has become a lightning rod for womens wider feelings of frustration, indignation and rage. open image in gallery The Time magazine cover announcing Donald Trump as Person of the Year ( Time/AFP/Getty ) This case also points to a wider landscape in which misogyny thrives and the abuse and violence against women is relentlessly dismissed and even happily joked about. Jeremy Clarkson can fantasise publicly about Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, being stripped naked and pelted with excrement in a national newspaper. Andrew Tate is given a long sit-down interview by the BBC, with all the legitimacy that inevitably confers, while charged with rape and human trafficking. This case makes us think about the voice given to men like Tate and others like him, when we have barely heard from his accusers. Its about all those other men enjoying awards and glittering careers while their accusers go to hell and back, their lives blighted by public contempt and vitriol. Its about women forced to abandon their loved careers and quietly leaving their workplace with an NDA and so-called pay-off, while their abusers continue to be lauded and thrive. Yes, we are angry about male violence, but we are also angry at all the systems that facilitate it, disguise it, fete it, obfuscate and excuse it. And allow it to continue time and time again. Person of the Year started out as Man of the Year. Perhaps not much has changed, but we owe Gisele an enormous debt of gratitude. Her sacrifice and her courage has made shame change sides. She has forced society to recognise that men commit violence against women every single day and that such violence is not committed by monsters, but by every type of man. The best way to honour that sacrifice is not with a meaningless title, but by acknowledging and addressing the global epidemic of male violence. This article has been updated from the original version published in December. Laura Bates is a writer, campaigner and founder of the Everyday Sexism Project For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A court has convicted the parents of a teenage boy who last year shot dead nine pupils and a school guard and wounded six more people in a school in central Belgrade, Serbia. The Higher Court in Belgrade sentenced Vladimir Kecmanovic, father of the boy, to 14 years and six months in prison for grave acts against public safety and for child neglect. The mother, Miljana Kecmanovic was sentenced to three years in prison for child neglect but was acquitted on charges of illegal possession of weapons. The shooter, identified as Kosta Kecmanovic, was 13 years old when he committed the crime and therefore too young to face a trial, according to Serbian law. His parents were detained soon after the shooting and charged for failing to keep the weapons out of reach of their son. The massacre at the Vladislav Ribnikar primary school in central Belgrade on May 3, 2023, shocked the Balkan nation which was used to crises but where mass school shootings had never happened before. open image in gallery Miljana Kecmanovic, mother of of a boy who killed 9 students and security guard in school shooting in 2023, arrives in the court building prior to a verdict in trial, in Belgrade, Serbia, Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) The couple's lawyer, Irina Borovic, said the verdict came as no surprise because public pressure was enormous and the expectations were huge. Borovic said she will appeal the verdicts. Ninela Radicevic, who lost her daughter in the shooting, said we are not satisfied because no one was held responsible for the murder of nine children and the school guard. The boy used his father's guns to open fire on his fellow pupils and others. He walked into the school and first opened fire in the hall before heading into a classroom where he continued shooting. Elementary schools in Serbia cater for children 7-15 years old. open image in gallery Students hold white flowers in front of the court building during a verdict ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Police have said that the teenager called them after the shooting and calmly said what he had done. He has been held in a specialized institution since the shooting and testified at his parents' trial. The proceedings were closed to the public except for the reading of the verdicts. Also convicted and sentenced to 15 months in prison for a false testimony was a shooting instructor who worked at a shooting ground where the boy practiced shooting. The school shooting was followed the next day by another mass killing in villages outside the capital. Uros Blazic, 21, took an automatic rifle and opened fire at multiple locations, killing nine people and wounding 12. He was sentenced earlier this month to 20 years in prison. The back-to-back shootings triggered a wave of street protests and a crackdown on widespread illegal gun ownership. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A seventh Palestinian baby has frozen to death as more than a million displaced Gazans struggle to survive in freezing winter conditions, with more thunderstorms forecast to batter the besieged territory. Most families in Gaza, displaced multiple times over the past year by the Israeli assault on the territory, are living in makeshift shelters that provide little protection against the cold, with humanitarian aid failing to meet even the most basic needs. Jumaa al-Batran, one month old, died of hypothermia in a tent in Deir al-Balah on Monday, just a day after her twin brother Ali suffered the same fate, the British news agency Reuters reported. Ali died at Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in central Gaza, with doctors quoted by the Palestinian news agency Wafa attributing the death to freezing temperatures. The twins are the sixth and seventh Palestinian babies to die of severe cold in Gaza within a week. Their father told Reuters he found Jumaas lifeless body frozen like ice. The Palestinian Meteorological Department has forecast more rainfall and thunderstorms across Gaza on New Years Eve, and temperatures are expected to remain cold to very cold. Humanitarian agencies estimate that 1.6 million Gazans are living in makeshift shelters, with half a million in flood-prone areas. Most children eat only one meal a day, further reducing their ability to withstand the cold. The war has displaced over two-thirds of Gazas population of 2.3 million, with many families forced to flee repeatedly as Israeli forces have expanded their operations in the north. The UN relief agency for the Palestinians, Unrwa, said on Sunday that aid is nowhere near enough and a ceasefire is desperately needed to deliver food as a famine looms. Palestinians receive donated food at a distribution centre in Deir al-Balah, Gaza ( AP ) In addition to the cold, heavy rainfall in recent days flooded many camps, leaving families scrambling to repair their damaged shelters or move to areas that offer even less protection. The water seeped inside and onto the mattresses and my childrens clothes. Everything is soakedthe blankets, the pillows, everything, Sabreen Abu Shanab told Reuters as she described her three children waking up drenched and freezing. Gazas civil defence reported hundreds of distress calls from families whose makeshift tents have been flooded. Our crews can only evacuate citizens from their damaged shelters to other places that are mostly unsuitable to shelter, and they remain in the open under the rain and bitter cold, it said on Telegram. Hamas, which governs Gaza, has appealed to the international community for urgent relief. They have called on the UN to send relief supplies and tents to protect hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians from the cold and the disastrous effects. The humanitarian and legal duty of the international community and the UN requires urgent action to provide relief to our people in the Gaza Strip, who have been subjected to a Zionist crime of genocide and ethnic cleansing, the group said in a statement. Palestinian authorities, meanwhile, announced on Monday that five more detainees from Gaza have been killed in Israeli prisons. The deaths are clear evidence of the extent of the occupations brutality and its detachment from all human values, they added. Hamas also accused Israel of the crimes of enforced disappearance, the policy of medical negligence, the acts of torture, abuse and deprivation towards Palestinian prisoners. The group said the crimes it alleges are the results of international impotence and the unjust American bias against our people. The worsening winter conditions come as Gazas healthcare system is in near-total collapse as Israeli forces intensify attacks on hospitals. On Sunday, an Israeli airstrike on Al Wafa hospital in Gaza City killed seven people. The military claimed that the strike was targeted at Hamas militants. Earlier, on Friday, Israeli forces raided Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, detaining over 240 people, including dozens of medical staff. The hospital has since been rendered non-operational, leaving northern Gaza with a single small functioning medical facility. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, said on Monday that hospitals in Gaza have become a battleground. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Syrias new rulers have inducted foreign Islamist fighters, including Uyghurs, a Jordanian and a Turk, into the countrys military in the aftermath of president Bashar al-Assad's ouster. The new leadership under Abu Mohammed al Golani, chief of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former Al Qaeda and Isis affiliate that led the rebellion against Mr Assad, last week unveiled an accord to dissolve the armed militias operating in the country and integrate them into the military. Mr Golani, the de facto leader, has since tapped dozens of former militants, including foreigners, for high-ranking positions in the army. At least six of the nearly 50 military roles announced by the defence ministry have gone to foreigners, Reuters reported on Sunday. The new regime said the appointments were aimed at modernising the military in order to guarantee security and stability, AFP reported. The decision to install Islamist fighters in senior military roles could alarm foreign governments as well as Syrian citizens fearful of the new regimes intentions, particularly towards minority groups. The concerns remain despite the de facto government pledging not to export Islamic revolution and to rule with tolerance towards Syria's large minority groups. The fighters named to military positions on Sunday included members of Mr Golani's HTS as well as former army officers who had joined the opposition in the early days of the civil war. The foreign fighters are either from the HTS or aligned with the rebel group, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor based in the UK. Abdulaziz Dawood Khudaberdi, a Uyghur from Chinas Xinjiang region, was made a brigadier general, his Turkistan Islamic Party said. Fellow Uyghur fighters Mawlan Tarsoun Abdussamad and Abdulsalam Yasin Ahmad were given the rank of colonel, the party said in a statement congratulating them and the Uyghur community on the appointments. Thousands of Sunni Muslim insurgents from abroad joined Syria's rebel groups early in the 13-year civil war to fight Mr Assad and the Shia militias supporting him, giving the conflict a sectarian overtone. Some foreign fighters launched their own armed groups, while many joined Isis as it rampaged through Iraq and Syria, briefly declaring a so-called caliphate before being routed by forces backed by the US and Iran. In remarks broadcast on Sunday, Mr Golani said the new Syria "cannot be run by the mentality of groups and militias". The new regime has indicated that foreign fighters and their families could be granted Syrian citizenship owing to their contributions in overthrowing Mr Assad. "This is a small token of recognition for the sacrifices Islamist jihadists gave to our struggle for freedom from Assad's oppression," an HTS source told Reuters. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Laura Loomer again attacked Donald Trumps best buddy Elon Musk on Monday, this time for being a welfare queen who has profited from both hefty government subsidies and special visas for his immigrant tech workers. She also called Musk on X a Stage 5 clinger as he relentlessly orbits around Trump and slithers into Mar-a-Lago. I dont think that its acceptable for billionaires to have this much power and this much access, she emphasized. The blast was the second major hit involving the right-wing gadfly over the double standard on immigrants taking American jobs between what Trump promised his MAGA supporters and Musks insistence that H-1B visas continue to be protected for upper-level foreign tech workers. What is it going to mean for the future of our country, our national security and the incoming Trump administration if we have a bunch of technocrats, who are also essentially welfare queens because their companies are receiving government subsidies, and they want to take over our defense industry? Loomer asked Trumps former White House strategist Steve Bannon on his right-wing War Room podcast. Bannon was even harsher, saying that sociopathic Musk and other tech leaders owed the nation reparations for the jobs they have stolen from Americans. We havent fought these battles over years and years and years to allow American citizens of every race, ethnicity, religion, be gutted by the sociopathic overlords in Silicon Valley, Bannon raged. Vivek Ramaswamy ... Elon Musk ... We want it gone ... We want reparations for the tech workers that you stole their lives. Bannon noted that the issue is central to the way they gutted the middle class in this country. Musk has vowed to go to the mat to protect H-1B immigrants that populate the top tiers of his companies. As for those that oppose Musk, F***k yourself in the face, he wrote on X. Trump is now supporting Musk in his fight, though has blasted H-1B visas in the past. Musks companies, meanwhile, have raked in some billions of dollars in U.S. taxpayer-funded subsidies (and major tax cuts) for Tesla and Space X. The Los Angeles Times reported in 2015 that Musks Tesla empire alone benefited from about $4.9 billion in government subsidies, based on an estimate using a compilation of grants, tax breaks, factory construction, discounted loans, environmental credits, and Tesla buyer tax credits and rebates. His companies have also collected some $20 billion in federal contracts over the past 16 years, USA Today has estimated, citing federal contracting data. Musk has insisted foreign workers are critical to the success of the American tech industry, while MAGA diehards want American jobs for Americans. The tech billionaire last week endorsed a post on X, which he has since deleted, denigrating American workers as re***ded, a word widely considered an ugly slur. Vivek Ramaswamy, Musks partner in the upcoming Trump-apppointed DOGE task force aiming to carve up the federal government, also blasted Americans as less desirable employees to brainier foreign hires in the U.S. tech world. He blamed the dumbing down of Americans on U.S. culture and the nations education even as the incoming Trump administration plans to eliminate the federal Department of Education. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The Earth has been hit by a massive eruption from the Sun which could cause problems for infrastructure but also lead to stunning northern lights on New Years Eve. A large blast of energy from the solar surface, known as a coronal mass ejection or CME, left the Sun on Sunday. It arrived on Tuesday, potentially in time to lead to the northern lights being visible at relatively southerly latitudes. The first shock from the CME arrived on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Space Weather Prediction Center at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA. It said that there was the potential for both effects on infrastructure but also that the activity could lead to visible northern lights. In the UK, there could be visible aurora across Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England dependant on cloud cover, the countrys Met Office said, while the spectacle could be seen as far south as Maine and the upper Midwest in the US, according to its officials. Any sectors that could be affected by the space weather which includes agriculture, where farmers can see strange behaviour from tractors that rely on critical communications systems, for instance have been notified to take any necessary actions to mitigate possible impacts, NOAA said. The New Years Eve events are actually the result of a flurry of activity on the weekend of 28-29 December that saw various parts of the Sun become active and unstable. A number of flares were released during that period, and a number of CMEs were associated with it, though only two of them were expected to actually arrive at Earth. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Travel plans for millions are in disarray as a combination of bad weather, rail engineering work and a train managers strike disrupt public transport. At London Euston, Avanti West Coast is running only a skeleton service of intercity trains during the first of 21 days of strikes by train managers in a dispute over rest-day working. As around 300 RMT members walk out, most Avanti trains linking the capital with the West Midlands, northwest England, North Wales and southern Scotland are cancelled, with passengers urged to avoid travel. Another one-day strike will take place on Thursday, 2 January, with subsequent walk-outs every Sunday from 11 January to 25 March. Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT, said: Avanti West Coast created this dispute by ignoring train managers concerns and presenting offers those members deemed unacceptable. The company must come forward with a revised proposal so we can avoid more strike action further into 2025. Kathryn OBrien, executive director of Customer Experience at Avanti West Coast, said: On the two strike days well have a significantly reduced service, so customers with tickets for 31 December or 2 January are strongly advised to travel on alternative dates or claim a full fee-free refund. We remain open to working with the RMT to resolve the dispute. Rail passengers face more problems with many later trains being cancelled ahead of the New Years Eve celebrations. CrossCountry has warned of an early shutdown and a reduced Manchester service. On the East Coast main line, a broken-down train is delaying journeys between Morpeth and Berwick-upon-Tweed. Anyone who succeeds in reaching Edinburgh or Glasgow from London will face further problems as severe weather sweeps across Scotland. ScotRail has imposed speed restrictions on many lines, including those linking the Central Belt with Perth, Aberdeen and Inverness. In western Scotland, Caledonian MacBrayne has cancelled many morning ferries, including those linking Stornoway with Ullapool, Lochboisdale with Oban and the Isle of Arran with the mainland. All sailings from Mallaig to Armadale in southern Skye are cancelled for the rest of the year. Afternoon sailings are in doubt on many other routes. Passengers with bookings on Loganair, which links the Western Isles, have been offered the chance to switch to flights up to a week ahead to avoid the risk of disruption. The Scottish government said in a statement: Travel disruption is expected across Scotland, with Transport Scotland making preparations across the trunk road network. Rail, ferry and airport operators are also working to ensure that people can reach their destination over the remainder of the festive period, when it is safe to do so and once the worst of the conditions have passed or expired. Back in London, the UKs busiest station, London Liverpool Street, remains closed due to engineering work by Network Rail. The hub serving Essex and East Anglia is due to reopen on Thursday 2 January. Three men were arrested in the UK before they were convicted in Belgium over their involvement in a major people smuggling ring following a joint investigation by the National Crime Agency and Belgian police. Ziarmal Khan, 24, Zeeshan Banghis, 20, and Saifur Rahman Ahmedzai, 23, all Afghan nationals, were tried in their absence in Belgium. Belgian prosecutors say the trios gang transported migrants from Afghanistan through Iran, Turkey and the Balkans into western Europe. Many would eventually be put on small boats from northern France to the UK. The group also committed serious sexual offences against male migrant minors, including rape which they would film and use footage to blackmail victims into criminality and further sexual abuse. Ahmedzai was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment, while Khan and Banghis were each sentenced to three years. All three were fined 3,000 (2,488). They now face being returned to Belgium to serve their sentences. South Korean pro-Yoon protesters held Stop the Steal banners at a rally near the presidential residence on Tuesday, 31 December, after a court approved an arrest warrant for president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached and suspended from power over his decision to impose martial law. The warrant came after the president ignored multiple summons for questioning over charges of insurrection and abuse of power. Mr Yoons lawyers called the warrant and the charges unlawful. Stop the Steal is a term made popular by a movement that promotes the false theory, repeated by Donald Trump, that the 2020 US election was stolen. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The UK experienced its coldest January night in 15 years after a hamlet in northern Scotland dropped to minus 18.7C on Friday. Altnaharra, which is in the most northern region of the Highlands, recorded minus 18.7C on Friday night, the Met Office said. It is the coldest January overnight temperature since 2010, when temperatures dropped below minus 15C several times at locations across the UK, including minus 22.3C on January 8 in Altnaharra. open image in gallery (PA Graphics) ( PA Graphics ) Forecasters said they are not expecting temperatures in the Sutherland hamlet to fall below minus 18C on Friday but there is a very small probability it could reach 19C. Altnaharra reached minus 14.5C on Thursday night. Temperatures for large parts of the UK are set to fall again as the cold weather continues. open image in gallery A woman walking through the snow in Saddleworth, England ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin said: Friday night into Saturday morning may well be the nadir of this current cold spell. Towns and cities in Scotland could see minus 2C to minus 5C and the Highlands may reach minus 14C or minus 15C. Higher ground in England such as the Pennines could hit minus 11C or minus 12C while the coldest city in England is expected to be Birmingham, which may reach minus 4C. The average low in northern Scotland for this time of year is about 0.3C, while for England, overnight lows are around 1.5C to 1.6C. open image in gallery Temperatures will continue to fall over the coming days, with the mercury potentially reaching minus 20C in northern parts of the UK on Friday night (James Manning/PA) ( PA Wire ) Met Office meteorologist Zoe Hutin said: Certainly a cold night to come, especially for those beneath clear skies in the east and the north and in rural spots as well. Cloud coverage is keeping the temperatures from falling as low but it will still be chilly, Ms Hutin said. Snow may fall overnight in hills of the south-west and parts of Northern Ireland but not to the same level as the past 10 days. open image in gallery (PA Graphics) ( PA Graphics ) Saturday is forecast to be cold too, and Ms Hutin said: Weve still got tonight to come, and tomorrow night could also be chilly as well. Temperatures for tomorrow night, it will be mainly eastern parts that see temperatures dropping widely below freezing, so East Anglia, the north-east of England, northern and eastern Scotland as well. So another chilly night to come on Saturday, but then as we go into Sunday and into Monday, then we can start to expect temperatures to recover somewhat. I wont rule out the risk of seeing something around or just below freezing again on Sunday night into Monday, but it wont be quite so dramatic as the temperatures that were going to experience as we go overnight tonight. Looking ahead to next week, she said: Were saying its getting milder but by no stretch does that mean (temperatures) are going to be above average it just will feel comparatively much more pleasant than it is at the moment. The UK has experienced a particularly long cold spell, she said, adding: It has been getting progressively colder each night this week, whereas looking at previous years, weve had maybe two or three days where things have been particularly cold. Ordinarily, its historians writing after the fact that identify the pivotal dates in wars when the road to victory or defeat becomes clear. Russias war on Ukraine is different: it is clear in advance that 20 January 2025 will change the course of the conflict. Since well before the US election, there has been no doubt that the return of Donald Trump to the White House could be decisive for Ukraines continuing ability to resist Russias onslaught. Its long been apparent that the outcome of the war will be decided far from the battlefields in the east and south of the country, and in fact, not in Ukraine at all. Both Russia and Ukraine are supported by coalitions of nations whose contributions to their respective war efforts are crucial. The key difference is that in Ukraines case, the biggest backer by volume may be about to pull the rug from under the countrys feet, crippling its ability to continue in its struggle to survive. The kinds of surprise counter-attack into the Russian region of Kursk as launched this week will be off the table. Trumps promise to bring peace to Ukraine within a day of arriving in power has been often repeated, but never explained. A number of different possible plans have been put forward. But none of them fully lays out how it will be possible to convince Ukraine to cease resistance without solid and unarguable means of deterring Russia from resuming hostilities when it feels it is ready. open image in gallery Donald Trump has frequently repeated his vow to bring the war to a speedy end once he is in office ( AP ) These so-called security guarantees are essential if any ceasefire is to mean a durable peace, rather than an opportunity for Russia to reconstitute its land forces even faster without Ukraine eliminating them almost as swiftly as they can be restored. The best available security guarantee membership of Nato for however much of Ukraine remains free has been ruled off the table by the alliances leading, and most timorous, members. And any mention of a possible presence of troops from Western countries in Ukraine, to ensure that peace is kept, sends European capitals into a panicked flurry of denials. Trump is likely to use the leverage of US aid and support to attempt to force Ukraine into a ceasefire. That will lead to immediate arguments not only with Kyiv, but also with those European countries that understand that Ukraines continued resistance is vital to their own security, and that a ceasefire will be exploited by Russia in the same manner as in Georgia, Syria, and Ukraine itself under the Minsk agreements. That disagreement will only exacerbate Trumps stated unwillingness to meet the United States Nato commitments to a Europe that has long been delinquent in meeting its own defence obligations. At the same time, any ceasefire, no matter how flimsy and how swiftly flouted by Russia, will be seized on by those Western European states that yearn for a return to business as usual, as an excuse to pretend that the problem has gone away, and to drift back into complacency over their own defence needs and ambivalence over the future of Ukraine. Thus, not only the survival of Ukraine but also the future of Europe is heavily dependent on the course Trump will choose. There are those who believe he will pursue a logical and consistent policy towards Russia, guided as much by care for his own future reputation as for the future of the international order that keeps the United States prosperous and secure. This strain of Trumptimism, even at its most plausibly argued, still carries about it a whiff of wishful thinking as, for instance, when Keir Starmer tries to cajole Trump into standing together with Ukraine, when all past performance indicates that this is the very last thing Trump wants to do. open image in gallery Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky with Nato secretary general Mark Rutte in October ( AFP/Getty ) At the other end of the scale, those who have observed Trumps behaviour during his first term and his consistent favouring of Russian national interests over those of the US think it is more likely that Trump will come to Putins rescue, and resolve the war in Russias favour before Russia runs out of men and equipment to continue fighting it. And that, in turn, would leave Russia stronger and emboldened by victory, ready to make its next move against a Europe that is denuded of US support. Across Nato, ministers of defence, defence intelligence chiefs, and senior military officers have been near-unanimous in confirming that Russia is preparing to attack a Nato state, and in their estimate that Moscow requires three to five years more of rebuilding its land forces to be ready to do so. Seemingly the sole exception to this consensus is the UKs own chief of the defence staff, Admiral Tony Radakin, who instead states confidently and repeatedly that Russia will not attack any Nato nation. Meanwhile, European politicians are still struggling to come to terms with the fact that the US security blanket that they have taken for granted for their entire career is being steadily pulled away. This process was clear well before the 2024 election. Washington has made it plain to anyone willing to listen that it sees both China and the Middle East as greater and more immediate problems than Russias undiminished ambition to reconquer its former territories in Europe. The diversion of attention from Nato will inevitably be followed by a diverting of resources, as US commanders continue to compete between themselves for priority. Russias efforts to cause mayhem and misery abroad tend to calm down when the situation is relatively stable, and increase when the war is not going Moscows way At the same time, Russia will enjoy continued support from its own coalition of backers. Absent any meaningful effort at deterrence by the US and the West, theres no reason to think that the limited contingent of North Korean troops currently bolstering the Russian front line wont expand, or that Iran and eventually China wont increase the range of war materials they are supplying to keep Russia in the fight. We should also expect another spike in incidents of arson, sabotage and murder carried out across Europe by Russian proxies. After a busy spring and early summer, there was a lull in reported incidents during much of 2024. But Russias efforts to cause mayhem and misery abroad tend to calm down when the situation is relatively stable, and increase when the war is not going Moscows way. So with new developments like the assassination of General Igor Kirillov in Moscow, on top of the slight relaxation of US restrictions on striking into Russia with Western-supplied precision-guided munitions, we should anticipate that Russia will resume its campaign of attempts at sowing mayhem and misery across the West. What we dont know is how European states will respond. They may well continue to call these incidents hybrid, grey zone, or sub-threshold attacks because if you recognise them as the acts of war they really are, you have to make uncomfortable political decisions on how to respond to them. At the end of 2023, I predicted that Ukraine would be forced to remain on the defensive for the coming year, but would hold on for as long as foreign support was sustained. Today, that foreign support is in serious doubt. But one thing remains unchanged: Vladimir Putins war aims. The end of fighting in Ukraine may be closer now than a year ago. But the end of Russias broader war against the West is nowhere in sight. A book I wrote over the course of 2024 asks in its title: Who Will Defend Europe? I was hoping that by now we might have some answers instead, in 2025 the question will remain more urgent than ever. Legislation will transform the landscape for the smaller unions Landmark regulatory changes coming in during 2025 will mean every credit union in the country will be able to offer mortgages, business loans, current accounts and debit cards. The changes are coming about due to the enactment of the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023, a piece of legislation that is set to transform the sector, according to Helen Carbery, the new chief executive of the Credit Union Development Association (CUDA), a representative body for the lenders. She said: We are at a landmark moment in the evolution of the role and value of the credit union sector in Ireland. The regulatory changes for credit unions coming in under the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 was one of the most important pieces of credit union legislation to ever be developed, she said. It will transform the whole credit union landscape, she added. It is thanks to this new legislation that for the first time ever, all credit unions will be able to offer a service or product such as a mortgage to a member of another credit union, under a formal arrangement with that other credit union. This effectively means that every credit union in the country will be able to offer mortgages, business loans, current accounts and debit cards. Ms Carbery said smaller credit unions will be able to offer these services by essentially partnering with other credit unions or through credit union shared organisations. Importantly, the legislation enables credit unions to maintain their independence and uniqueness while they partner with others to provide the services needed by their members, she said. The act also modernises governance structures and reduces operational burdens on volunteer boards to enable credit unions to play a more active role in areas such as housing, SME lending, and environmental sustainability. The Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 also introduces the concept of the corporate credit union. Often described as a central credit union or a credit union for credit unions, a corporate credit union would support collaboration between credit unions, and enable them to better manage their resources and expand their lending capabilities, she said. Ireland is not alone in grappling with how to regulate a diverse credit union sector. In countries such as Canada and Australia, regulatory systems have successfully enabled credit unions to thrive while ensuring appropriate oversight, Ms Carbery said. The next phase of the implementation of the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 includes the drafting of new regulations for the development and operation of a corporate credit union by the Central Bank of Ireland. This will be done in consultation with the credit union sector. This is a very exciting development in the year ahead as it could pave the way for credit unions to gain greater access to funding and more opportunities to expand their offerings. Ms Carbery has just taken over as head of CUDA following the retirement of Dr Kevin Johnson from the role. In her recent speech at the Credit Union Annual Conference in Killarney, the outgoing deputy governor of the Central Bank, Sharon Donnery, said the focus should allow it to seize the opportunities that the various credit union regulations have presented. Ms Donnery said that since 2014, the number of credit unions overall has halved and the number of large credit union has more than doubled. Total assets in the sector have grown by 50pc from 14bn in 2014 to just over 21bn in 2024. She said credit union reserves have strengthened over the last decade and total loans have grown by 73pc in the same period. Ms Carbery said to increase their loan book, the credit sector is focused on how to remain relevant to their communities with useful and attractive offerings. Its promising to be a bumper year for non-fiction books from self-help guides to celeb memoirs and Irish history, theres something for everyone Whether you want to get more focused or more zen in 2025, want to learn about Dublins hidden history or read a celebrity memoir, theres plenty of great non-fiction on the way in the coming year. Here are some of the highlights of the next six months. "CSO data reveals only 4.3% of Irish farmers are under 35, sparking warnings of an aging crisis in agriculture from Macra and experts. Photo: Protest by farmers over beef prices in 2019. (Photo by Brian Lawless/PA Images via Getty Images) Drug dealer who said he needed sunbeds to hide scar has 60,000 personal injury case dismissed Paranoid thug who kicked in door of flat block fails in 60,000 injury case and ordered to pay costs for missed hearing Dean Brophy, who said he tanned to hide a scar, is pictured at court Alan Sherry Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 10:42 A convicted drug dealer who said he had to use sunbeds to hide a 2cm scar he claimed he received slipping on stairs has had his 60,000 personal injury case dismissed and has been hit with a costs bill. Sophisticated con involves emails claiming death of long-lost relative and targets Irish diaspora It is believed the fraudsters are operating from outside the State. Fraudsters claiming to be Irish-based lawyers have been engaged in a sophisticated inheritance scam which appears to be aimed at the Irish diaspora. The con involves emails being sent to people from someone purporting to be a solicitor saying that a long-lost relative has died and that the email recipient is in line for an inheritance. The Indo Daily: Why is even the mention of water charges like playing with fire for politicians? Controversial Fine Gael politician John McGahon has announced he is quitting politics as he ruled out running for the Seanad again after failing to get a Dail seat in the general election. Mr McGahon became a lightning rod for Fine Gael election troubles after Taoiseach Simon Harris failed to either back him or disown him amid controversy over a pub assault. In 2022, a Circuit Court jury found Mr McGahon not guilty of the assault of Breen White outside a pub in Co Louth in 2018. However, Mr White sued the Co Louth politician for assault and battery and the High Court awarded 39,000 to Mr White. Im not running for the Seanad again and Im not expecting or seeking a taoiseachs nomination, Mr McGahon said. Mr Harris had stressed during the campaign that Mr McGahon had been acquitted of assault by a court, but amid continuing fallout and damage to the partys reputation, the Taoiseach subsequently pointed out that there were two Fine Gael candidates running in the five-seat Louth constituency. I am looking forward to taking a step back from public life Mr McGahons running mate, newcomer Paula Butterly, was subsequently elected. The outgoing senator, a nephew of long-time Fine Gael Louth TD Brendan McGahon, said: After a decade of holding elected office, I am looking forward to taking a step back from public life and spending more time with my wife Aine, family and friends. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein minister and Good Friday Agreement negotiator Conor Murphy is to run for the Seanad. The MLA, who holds the Economy brief at Stormont, says he is seeking to advance Irish unity. The move, announced by party leader Mary Lou McDonald, is a surprise given how pivotal a figure Mr Murphy has been in advancing Sinn Fein interests in the North. Sinn Fein minister Conor Murphy is to run for the Seanad. Photo: Kevin Scott The party lost two representatives through resignation in the last Seanad, with the controversial departure of Niall O Donnghaile. That former lord mayor of Belfast departed under a cloud related to inappropriate texts to a teenager. At the time, Ms McDonald paid tribute to the senator and said he was stepping down due to health challenges. The statement was later described by the teenager as a mental stab. Ms McDonald subsequently told the Dail she had written to the teenager and their mother, offering a full, unequivocal and sincere apology for the statement. Meanwhile, the nomination of Mr Murphy who says he will resign as a Northern minister if elected is being seen as a move to strengthen Sinn Fein in the Seanad and in the Republic more generally. Mr Murphy is the sole party nominee on the industrial and commercial panel, where he is almost certain to gain election, given Sinn Feins electoral strength of 39 TDs, who all have a vote. Constitutional change is on the horizon Five other nominees were also announced, including two TDs who lost their seats Chris Andrews, who controversially lost out to Eoghan Hayes in Dublin Bay South, and Pauline Tully, defeated in Cavan-Monaghan, where running mate Cathy Bennett took a seat for the first time. Mr Murphy told RTE radio that the reason he was running for the upper house in the Republic was because the Oireachtas is going to be key over the next couple of years. Constitutional change is on the horizon. The Oireachtas is going to be a key component in terms of shaping that debate and planning for that constitutional change. We have a very strong team there. Im very happy to have the opportunity to go and join them in terms of driving that debate forward, he said. A cherished husband and wife, who died after a road traffic collision on St Stephens Day will be laid to rest on Friday. Anthony Hogg (40) and his wife Georgina Hogg Moore (39) were crossing a road near Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, Dublin, at around 5.45 pm on December 26. The couple, who were married with children, lived in the Whitestown area nearby. In a funeral notice the couple were described as the cherished mother and father of Ryan and Becky-Joy, beloved children of Valerie, Jackie and the late George and Paul. It continued that the couple would be sadly missed by their loving families, relatives, friends and Ben and Kai. The family have asked that mourners wear bright colours to reflect both Anto and Georginas personalities. A man has been remanded in custody in connection with the incident. John Halpin (45) of Whitestown Avenue, Blanchardstown, made no application for bail when he appeared before Judge Michele Finan at Dublin District Court yesterday. Gardai have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of a 58-year-old womans body in a field in Co Roscommon yesterday afternoon. Croatian national Mirjana Pap was reported missing from her home in Athlone, Co Westmeath, on Saturday. Gardai are investigating whether she may have suffered a violent death. Gardai said they are particularly interested in the movements of a silver 08G registered Peugeot 207 on Saturday, December 28 between 11am and 12noon. The car is understood to have travelled from Beechville estate, Athlone onto the N6 motorway (west bound) from junction 11 to junction 13 before continuing on the R362 from Monksland to Bealnaulla. Motorists who travelled along these routes within this timeframe are asked to provide gardai with dash-cam footage. Mirjana Pap Today's News in 90 Seconds - December 30th In an update on Tuesday night, a garda spokesperson said: A post-mortem examination was carried out earlier today by the Deputy State Pathologist, Dr. Yvonne McCarthy, at Galway University Hospital. Results of the post-mortem are not being released for operational purposes. The deceased has now been formally identified as Mirjana Pap and following a post-mortem examination, An Garda Siochana has commenced a murder investigation. The investigation is being led from the incident room at Athlone Garda Station by members of the Crime Functional Area in the Meath Westmeath Division under a Senior Investigating Officer (SIO), with assistance from the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI). Earlier today, the force said it was investigating all the circumstances around her death. Officers have sealed off a house in Athlone connected to Ms Pap and have seized two cars for examination. Ms Paps body was located in a field at Clonark, Co Roscommon. Sources say a potential person of interest is in garda custody but for matters unconnected to her death. However, this person may be questioned later about the womans death. The person of interest was known to Ms Pap and is understood to suffer from health issues. In an update on Tuesday morning, the force said gardai in Athlone are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman in her 50s following the discovery of a body on lands at Curraghaleen, Co Roscommon (near Athlone) on Monday afternoon, 30th December 2024. An image of a similar car. Picture: Garda Press Office The local Coroner has been notified and the woman's body has been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway for a post-mortem examination by the Deputy State Pathologist, the force said in a statement. A senior investigating officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at Athlone Garda Station. A family liaison officer (FLO) has also been assigned to provide support to the family. Examinations are currently underway at the scene and at a residential property in Athlone by the Garda Technical Bureau. Two cars have also been seized for examination. Roscommon County Councillor Emer Kelly said the discovery of Ms Paps body in South Roscommon has shockwaves through the county. It definitely has come as a shock to the community both her local community and the wider community, she said. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this time. It is never easy but particularly around Christmas time, it is never nice time to hear such news. I did not know the lady personally but I do extend my thoughts and sympathies to her family and anyone affected by the news. Anyone who has any information or anything they think might be useful, please contact the local Garda station to help with any investigation. Meanwhile, an online fundraising page has been set up to help cover the cost of Ms Paps funeral. The page, 'Help for funeral costs for Family Pap', has already raised 14,557 of a 22,000 target with over 300 people donating. The page reads, We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Mirjana Pap, a beloved member of our community. In this difficult time, we are coming together to support the family in covering funeral expenses and honouring her memory, said the person who set up the page. Your contributions will help ensure that Mirjana is laid to rest with the dignity and love she deserves. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. Gardai have appealed for anyone with information to contact Athlone Garda Station on 090 649 2600, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station. The new government has been warned not to renege on a commitment to roll out a new living wage. Speaking on the eve of an 80 cent an hour increase to the national minimum wage, general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Owen Reidy, said momentum must be maintained to meet an agreed target to roll out a living wage worth 60pc of earnings. He said tomorrows increase marks the third hike under a four-year plan to replace the national minimum wage with a new national living wage by January 2026. Mr Reidy said 180,000 low-paid workers will be starting the New Year with a pay rise of 6.3pc as the minimum wage rises by 80 cent an hour to 13.50. He said a full-time minimum wage worker will now earn an extra 30 a week or 1,600 across the year before tax. There is no place in a modern, rich country like Ireland for any worker to be paid below the 60pc poverty line, he said. Momentum must be maintained by the new government to meet the agreed 60pc target in 12 months, with a view to setting a subsequent target of 66pc thereafter a target reached in the UK last April by a Tory government. He said the national minimum wage turns 25 in 2025. Mr Reidy said doomsayers predicted when it was first introduced in 2000, and every year the rate goes up, that it will bankrupt businesses and cost jobs. They were wrong then, and they are wrong now, he said. He said government foot-dragging and delay tactics on their commitments to improve workers pay and conditions are unacceptable. Mr Reidy said it has kicked the can on legislating to promote collective bargaining, increasing the number of sick days, scrapping sub-minimum wage rates, raising minimum pay for migrant workers, and ending forced retirement since the summer. Is it any wonder public trust in politicians is plummeting? he said. Trade unions have never denied sector specific challenges and that some businesses will have further to travel than others in bringing minimum standards in line with the norm across Europe. Vulnerable but viable businesses should be supported. But those business supports should be targeted, time-limited and agreed through dialogue with the social partners. Workers cannot be left to pick up the bill for reducing the cost of doing business. A recent salary guide by Excel Recruitment said the upcoming minimum wage increase will benefit workers but may put pressure on smaller retailers. It suggested that retailers may look to AI to reduce costs. The minimum wage increase to 13.50 in January 2025 will further impact the industry, particularly smaller retailers, who may look to technology like AI to streamline processes and manage costs, said Aislinn Lea, director of non-food and fashion retail at Excel Recruitment. Meanwhile, a Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment spokesperson said legislation governing statutory sick leave provides that a ministerial order to increase the sick leave day entitlement cannot be made before January 1, 2025. To note, last time the ministerial order was signed on 1 January 2024, she said. Three days paid sick leave was rolled out from 2023. From January 1 this year, the entitlement has been five days and it was proposed that it would rise to seven days for 2025 and ten days for 2026. Trocaire worker David O'Hare says scale of problem in Sudan is going under the radar. A hunger crisis could kill more people in Sudan than bullets from its vicious civil war, an Irish humanitarian worker who visited the country has said. An estimated 30 million people have been affected by malnutrition, displacement and gender-based violence that has ravaged Sudan during the conflict. The civil war has driven an estimated 14 million people from their homes, around 30pc of its population, and created what the UN has described as one of the largest displacement crises in history. David OHare, from Irish charity Trocaire, said the scale of the need in the north African nation was the worst he had ever seen and was going totally under the radar, unfortunately. On a recent trip, he visited an internal displaced persons (IDP) camp in Thobo and was struck by one mother in particular, Madina. After losing her husband and son, she and her seven children walked for six days to the camp in mid-30C heat, eating leaves and grass for food. Her youngest son Murimabi was extremely malnourished and was treated at a health centre which she said saved his life. I would have guessed he was three he was nine, Mr OHare, who is Belfast-based, said. Severe malnutrition over a prolonged period of time had stunted his growth. The Trocaire staff told me that his health has vastly improved since he arrived, but he still obviously has many medical issues stemming from that malnutrition. Sudan was plunged into conflict in mid-April last year, when long-simmering tensions between its military and paramilitary leaders broke out in the capital of Khartoum and spread to Darfur and other regions. This has badly affected a nation heavily reliant on agriculture, where people are forced to leave their land and can no longer grow their own food. Climate change has also led to poor harvests, due to either a lack of rain or land being flooded. Famine has been declared in five areas across the country, with a further five areas due to enter famine conditions in the coming months. Around 14 million people, 30pc of the inhabitants of Sudan, have been forced to flee their homes, Mr OHare said. Ive worked in the humanitarian sector for nearly 20 years, and Im still finding it hard to get my head around the scale of the crisis that I saw firsthand in Sudan. Theres roughly 48 to 50 million inhabitants, so half the population 25 million people are at risk of acute malnutrition. Its absolutely horrendous. Trocaire runs 15 rural health centres and 11 nutrition outreach sites in the country to help tackle hunger and health issues. The Amdulu Health Centre was originally set up to help 12,000 people, but that number has doubled since an IDP camp opened nearby. Mr OHare said the head of clinic, Elizabeth Philip Kori described malnutrition as a major problem, particularly for women and children. In South Kordofan, one million displaced people have arrived and added to its population of two million people in an already poor area. Juma Idris Kuku, the regional director of the Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Association, told Mr OHare that in this region it was not the fighting that would kill people, it was a lack of food. The conflict has been the driver, but thats not what is the biggest risk to people at the moment, he said. Asked what it was about the crisis that made it the worst he had seen, Mr OHare said: Its the scale that is just so vast. Its when I see kids that are very obviously malnourished, theyve got the little swollen bellies, their heads are very big. You can see obvious stunting in their growth. On a human level, thats what gets me the most. Its women and children who always seem to be the most vulnerable in these situations. He added: The scale of the need is totally outstripping available resources, which is one of the reasons why our Christmas appeal is for children in conflict, including kids in Sudan. But he said the actions of a group of farmers in the Nuba mountains, who shared food with new arrivals to the region, had given him hope. They didnt have a safety net for themselves in terms of food, and yet they still... shared what little they had with those people who were even worse off than them, whod had to flee with nothing, he said. The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has criticised the international communitys failure to prevent the escalation of the conflict in Gaza and to protect civilians there, as he likened modern warfare to terror. In his message for World Day of Peace, Archbishop Eamon Martin said the near-complete destruction of Gaza, and the bringing of its population to the brink of famine, is, by any standard, a disproportionate measure. In a plea for global peace, Dr Martin highlighted how the horrors and brutality of war are being inflicted across the world today from the Middle East to Ukraine, Sudan to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen and Myanmar. Sadly, the list is long and shameful, he said. Highlighting how in 2023 an estimated US$2.5 trillion was spent on armaments and military resources, he noted that the amount has since increased while the world continues to tolerate the escalation in production, supply, trade and use of weapons of war though so many other human needs need to be prioritised and resourced. Such expenditure cannot be reconciled with our Christian commitment to reconciliation and peace, or with the beliefs of any of the worlds major faiths and religions, or with secular principles of the common good and the flourishing of humanity, he said. Money earmarked for armaments, Dr Martin said, should be used to tackle hunger, famine, the impact of climate change, the scourge of addictions, and the essential health and educational needs of millions of people throughout the world. Referring to Pope Francis message for World Day of Peace, he quoted the Pontiffs plea that a fixed percentage of the money earmarked for armaments might be used instead for a global fund to eradicate hunger and facilitate education for sustainable development and combating climate change. Such a commitment, the Pope said, would help disarm hearts so easily filled with anxiety, with the fear of war, or a desire for vengeance. Francis also appealed for greater effort to be made to eliminate every pretext that encourages young people to regard their future as hopeless or dominated by the thirst to avenge the blood of their dear ones. The future is a gift meant to enable us to go beyond past failures and to pave new paths of peace, he said. Archbishop Martin hit out at the use of sophisticated and powerful weapons, especially in the midst of streets, homes, hospitals and schools, which he said makes it difficult to distinguish so-called modern warfare from terror. How can tactics, which cause thousands of civilian deaths, alongside the whole scale destruction of food, water, health services and other infrastructure that is essential for survival, ever hope to restore justice and rights, resolve differences, respect human dignity, or provide a path for reconciliation and peace? he challenged. In relation to Gaza specifically, the Archbishop reiterated his condemnation of the egregious 7th October 2023 terror attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad on Israel, including the taking of hostages, 100 of whom are still held captive in Gaza. However, he hit out at the merciless and disproportionate response by Israel which has seen over 45,000 people including 17,000 children cut down and two million people forcibly displaced. Almost the entire population of Gaza is living in extreme hunger, and despite the reality of catastrophic famine conditions for hundreds of thousands of desperate civilians, humanitarian access is effectively blocked. Notwithstanding the rulings of the International Court of Justice on protection from genocide, on illegal occupation of territories and on systemic discrimination, the international community has failed to prevent the escalation of conflict and to protect civilians, he criticised. The senior church leader said he was conscious that those who have expressed similar views to his on Gaza have been accused of anti-semitism. Stressing that he abhorred the violations by Hamas and other Islamist militant groups against the people of Israel, he said he fully supports the right of Israelis to live in peace and security. He added, This right has to be achieved in the context of a just peace, where the legitimate rights of Palestinians are also protected in line with international law. Joining with Pope Francis, Dr Martin prayed that the sound of arms would be silenced. May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war; may the doors of dialogue and peace be flung open throughout the region, devastated by conflict. Separately, in their New Years message, the leaders of the main churches in Ireland have expressed the hope that the language of hurt and division would be confined to the past so that the words we use, and the actions we undertake, may be focused on love rather than hate, peace rather than war, light rather than darkness. Burnout and growth of AI may fuel employees interest in fresh approach to employment Dr Dale Whelehan on the campaign to introduce a four-day work week to try and address burnout, stress and inefficiency A Dublin-based consultant leading global calls for a four-day work week has said that burnout, the use of AI and companies pressuring employees to return to the office may fuel momentum behind the campaign. Behavioural scientist Dr Dale Whelehan said 2025 is the year where small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can radically experiment with a four-day week in order to attract and retain employees. The 28-year-old is the chief executive of 4 Day Week Global, an advocacy group that now offers services to companies looking to make the switch. Dr Whelehan was named on the Time 100 Most Influential People In Health and the Forbes 30 Under 30 in the social impact category, capping off an incredible year for the Kildare man. When I was named on this Time100 list in particular, I saw a sentence which said the youngest person on this list is Dr Dale Whelehan, and the oldest person is Jimmy Carter. I thought, Im never gonna see that sentence or anything like it again, he said. Theres something so humbling about the whole thing as well, because Ive had a really cool year, and Ive got to go to some very cool places. I got to speak at the Wall Street Journals CEO Summit speaking about a four-day week and go to New York to the Fast Company Most Innovative Companies Summit, and meet the creative director of Mattel, these really multi-millionaire, super-successful people, and Im here in the countryside in Kildare with grass growing down the middle of the lane. Dr Whelehan began his career as a pretty shoddy physio, where he said he was not very good at biology and physiology, but had a real interest in peoples well-being and mental health. I went and I did a PhD after that looking at sleep deprivation in surgeons and that changed my career, he said. Dr Whelehan moved to look at merging behavioural science and well-being. A four-day week was emerging as this idea that at the beginning of my PhD, Ireland had just launched its first pilot of the concept with the Four Day Week Ireland campaign, and so I was volunteering with that at the time, and got more and more interested in it, saw the benefits of it, not just for people but for businesses, for society, for our planet, and ultimately, then joined as CEO of the organisation two years ago. The idea of a four-day week is rooted in allowing the brain to recover fully before going back to work. He said that in 1911, when people were working a six-day week, analysis was done of every task of factory workers in Pennsylvania to try to improve their efficiency. This led to a huge surge in productivity during the industrial revolution, but also to worker fatigue and errors that led to people becoming injured and losing limbs. The five-day work week gave the time for a very physical workforce to recover. Human attention is much more limited than physical muscle, so we know that actually you probably only get about three-and-a-half to four hours of good work done any given day, Dr Whelehan said. So the four-day work week is actually here, its just buried under a lot of unproductive time. He said the switch to a four-day work week is not as simple as just removing a days work, but instead changing the work you do to become very deliberate and outcome-based. This involves looking at the tasks you want completed by the end of the year and working backwards from that, organising tasks during the week in order to achieve it. When we think of people who work hard, we typically mean people who work long hours, but we dont necessarily delve deeper and understanding what is the level of quality output by those people, Dr Whelehan said. He said that staff of a company shifting to a four-day week can go through a series of emotions, as with any change: from the huge excitement at the start to the realisation that it is not as simple as clocking off on Thursday evenings and a shift in work habits that can be exhausting. You must be cognisant of if you are implementing it in one area, what are the ramifications of that if youre not introducing it in another area? Or similarly, if youre introducing different types of reduced working-hour schedules, so your frontline staff are actually going to be working five shorter days, versus your back in staff working four days. That might cause some tension... if not communicated and managed properly. A shift towards trying a four-day work week might be fuelled by the need to address burnout, by companies wanting employees to return to the office post pandemic, and by the advent of artificial intelligence. This month, the city of Tokyo announced it was introducing a four-day week in an attempt to tackle low birth rates. Dr Whelehan said: That was from a conversation that I had with the Japanese ministry two years ago they called me just when the UK results [of a pilot of 60 companies] came out. He added: There is a real risk with a lot of these tech billionaires, its in their inherent interest to reduce overheads and they will naturally use AI over humans in order to achieve that. So really there is a huge responsibility on humans now to figure out what is our unique selling point in the world of AI, and if were burned out and exhausted, were never going to have a fighting chance of figuring out what that is. There was a record number of deaths of Irish citizens abroad reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs this year as the figure rose above 400 for the first time. Consular assistance was provided to 405 families of an Irish citizen who died abroad in 2024, up from 381 in 2023. Overall, the number of consular cases dealt with by the Department of Foreign Affairs has gone up for the third consecutive year, rising by 9pc compared to last year. The biggest increase was seen in the number of missing persons cases, up 32pc. Arrests and welfare cases both rose by 26pc compared to a year ago. The 1,858 new cases opened by the Department of Foreign Affairs this year does not include ongoing efforts to assist Irish citizens caught in crises in the Middle East including in Gaza and Lebanon. Of the new cases, the 405 deaths abroad made up the largest proportion, followed by medical cases (301), arrests (241) and welfare (238). Six cases of child abduction were reported. Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said providing consular assistance is one of the cornerstones of the work carried out by the Department. This year, we have provided assistance in a number of complex cases, such as parental child abductions, and in regions where we have no physical presence. These cases are particularly challenging for citizens and their families, he said. I would like to pay tribute to the hardworking staff in our missions overseas who, alongside colleagues based in the Departments headquarters in Dublin, provide round the clock assistance. This important work also includes authenticating over 56,000 Irish documents for business or personal use overseas, and over 2,900 civil letters of freedom issued to Irish citizens marrying abroad in 2024. Support provided to Irish citizens caught in crises in the Middle East included evacuations from Gaza and assistance to leave Lebanon. Since late 2023, a total of 106 people have left Gaza with support from the Department of Foreign Affairs. A small number of Irish citizens and dependants remain in Gaza and my Department, through our missions in the region, continues to advocate on behalf of those individuals that have not yet been able to leave, Mr Martin added. 28 Irish citizens and dependants were directly assisted by my Department to depart Lebanon aboard flights organised by international partners. All citizens that requested assistance to depart were supported to do so." Sophie Toscan du Plantier (left) and her parents Marguierite and Georges Bouniol (right) The elderly father of tragic Sophie Toscan du Plantier has died in Paris, without ever seeing justice done by Ireland for the murder of his daughter. Georges Bouniol was aged 98 and died within a week of Sophies 28th anniversary with a Garda cold case review, ordered more than two and a half years ago, ongoing. Sophie Toscan du Plantier A Garda officer was quoted recently as saying that it was expected to take many months yet before its work is concluded. Ms Toscan du Plantier was found battered to death in the driveway of her holiday home at Toormore, Schull, on December 23, 1996. Sophie's parents Marguerite and Georges Bouniol, and her aunt, Madeline Opelka (hat) laying a wreath at the scene of their daughter's murder in Toormore, West Cork The only prominent suspect in her murder, twice-arrested Englishman Ian Bailey, also died this year, on January 21 last. The Irish law enforcement and legal system did not to bring any charges against him. Ian Bailey. Photo: PA Georges was born on July 29, 1926 in Paris. Sophie was born on July 28 in 1957, the day before his own 31st birthday. He always referred to her as his special gift. Sophies father was a dentist by profession and remained at that work for more than 40 years. He is survived by his wife Marguerite, Sophies mother, who turned 93 last June. Georges, who had been taken ill as his daughters anniversary approached, had been hospitalised in Paris. He died surrounded by his family. Sophies son, Pierre-Louis, has thus lost a grandfather in addition to his mother, the latter when he was 15-years-old. Sophie Toscan du Plantier (left) and her parents Marguierite and Georges Bouniol (right) The Murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier Funeral arrangements are awaited and it is unclear whether Georges will be buried with Sophie in the family plot in his native Lozere. Sophies body was exhumed in 2008 from its original resting place in Ambax by French authorities determined to get to the bottom of the crime after years of official inaction in Ireland and no charge laid. Her remains were subjected to a second post mortem which corroborated the findings of the original autopsy, carried out by former State Pathologist Dr John Harbison, who has since died. Tanaiste Micheal Martin has described the Sophie case as a stain on Irish society and gave his opinion last September that murder charges should have been brought against Bailey. Earlier this month, the Southern Star newspaper carried an advert placed by Sophies family calling for persons still concealing aspects of the terrible crime to come forward now. The notice, which carried a photo of Sophie, was signed by her son Pierre-Louis, brother Bertrand and uncle Jean-Pierre Gazeau. We urge any person, or persons, concealing the truth to take heart and come forward to reveal the facts to Garda detectives, they wrote. For the sake of Sophies family and friends let us know the truth even at this late date. The notice was also signed by local campaigners, including Bill Hogan, who knew Sophie well. He said at the time that Sophies parents, Georges and Marguerite, deserved to get a modicum of justice, even at this late date. I saw how liberating this mindset is when my son said of a trip just after his father died: That was the best holiday ever. It is best to live in the moment and embrace each day as it comes. Photo: Getty Victor Chan in the Netflix series 'Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones'. Maintaining strength is important as we get older. Photo: Netflix No sooner had Christmas Day passed than my media feed was jammed with health and fitness tips for the new year. This included recommendations on things I might do to help me live longer. Or even forever. As in, never dying. This enthusiasm for trying to outlive all others is not new. Kings, warriors and wealthy people have fought to beat death since the dawn of time. In Greek mythology, the goddess Eos asked Zeus to grant her mortal lover Tithonus eternal life. But she forgot to ask for eternal youth to accompany this gift. She got her wish, but Tithonus withered into an old man. Oisin suffered a similar fate in Tir na nOg. Only gods were immortal, and mortals were warned about the consequences of meddling with fate. In these stories, desire to be immortal is fuelled by self-importance, with the intoxication of power and wealth making it easier to lose sight of individual insignificance. Venki Ramakrishnan, a Nobel laureate and molecular biologist, critically analyses current research on ageing in his book Why We Die. His examination of extremely long lifespans is framed using the massive variation in how long different species live, from the Greenland shark, with a lifespan of 400 years, to the fruit fly, with only a day of life. Ramakrishnan assesses the rapid development of molecular biology and concludes that living beyond the usual human lifespan is theoretically possible. Importantly, though, he also debates whether extended life is philosophically attractive. It is a question that reminded me of a patient in her 90s that I cared for as a young doctor. Marvelling at her vigour, I foolishly asked her if it felt wonderful to live so long. Not really, she replied sadly. Everyone I loved is now gone. Strength and mobility training can keep us healthy as we age. Photo: Getty Extreme longevity must be desirable to some, however, considering how much effort is expended on resisting cellular ageing. Live forever zealots extol the virtues of long fasts, medication to lower blood sugar and hours of weight training. Some receive blood transfusions from young people and individualised supplements to boost cell repair. To be clear, these are not proven interventions. Though Im sceptical about potential immortality, there is a lot to be said for retaining muscle strength, mobility and memory. Professor Rose Anne Kenny and her team in The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (Tilda) emphasise the importance of maintaining mobility and supporting healthy brain function as we get older. Tilda demonstrates what we can do to improve the quality of our lives as we age: reducing or stopping alcohol intake, sleeping well, tackling hearing and vision loss, socialising and staying active physically. Research in populations characterised by successful aging found in Italy, Japan, Greece and Costa Rica come to similar conclusions: if we wish to have a good quality of life beyond the average human lifespan of 73.3 years, our efforts should be collective and begin in childhood. The magic fix for successful ageing is unlikely to lie in the actions of one person, and far more likely to come from investment in communities. It is best to live in the moment and embrace each day as it comes. Photo: Getty Focusing on living in the moment provides a welcome balance to the fight against inevitable ageing. We could probably use a bit of each approach. Sticking to the day at hand provides purpose, helping to manage anxiety and feeling overwhelmed. A few months after my husband suddenly passed away, my family went on holiday. On the way home, my small son declared: That was the best holiday ever. Unsurprising, as he had spent all his time swimming and eating ice cream. His living each day without dwelling on the past or fretting about the future made me see how liberating this mindset is. Adult life is harder, with its blizzard of responsibilities and demands, and it can take strenuous effort to dig into each moment, be it painful or joyful. Whereas youth grants vitality, old age gives wisdom and humility. Perhaps this is why the blue zone way of life found in Sardinia or Okinawa does not focus on eternal youth or life; instead, it accords value to old age and focuses on including everyone. Victor Chan in the Netflix series 'Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones'. Maintaining strength is important as we get older. Photo: Netflix Today's News in 90 Seconds - December 31st Although research on extreme longevity is having a major moment, immortality thankfully remains out of reach. Sensible measures to maintain good health in older life are available, however. Each begins with actions that we take each day. Borrowing the words of the writer Anais Nin, this year I hope to postpone death by living, by suffering, by loving, by error, by risking, by giving, and by losing. Dr Suzanne Crowe is a consultant in paediatric intensive care medicine Theres a sparkle in the crisp night sky at this time of year. Venus appears closer, but the prospect of another new year, arguably can add a twinkle of its own. Whether youre raising a glass to toast a success, or to wash away a bitter taste, theres solace in appreciating: theres little under the sun, that hasnt been seen off, or survived, by someone, somewhere, who went before us. The fact that were still standing after over 31 million seconds we have lived through in the passing year is also something to be thankful for. Traditionally, as Walter Scott put it: Each age has deemed the new-born year the fittest time for festal cheer. Yes, of course there is always the unknown to be reckoned with. The new trials and threats. Trying to assimilate with a new America First approach being piloted by incoming president Donald Trump will require a reset. In our US and European relations heretofore, we have been conditioned more towards working together than having to choose sides. But the world in general is waking up to the fact that prospects of reaching global compromise on myriad critical issues, are receding. However desirable, working together on collective problems looks increasingly remote. In his tribute to Jimmy Carter, President Joe Biden noted that Mr Carter had the vision and will not just to be a president for his times, but for all times. His death is all the more poignant for the fact that such a perspective has never been needed more. Far from reaching in, Mr Carter looked outwards. Although he only served a single term, he succeeded in establishing diplomatic relations with communist China in 1979. He also brokered a landmark peace accord between Egypt and Israel. And according to Irish diplomatic sources, he was the first US president to recognise Irelands right to have a say on the Norths future. He was also a tireless advocate for peace. Incoming president Trump has pledged to deliver peace agreements in Ukraine and the Middle East. We will soon have a chance to see whether he can make good on his word. Adapting to a more inward-looking America will be a game-changer. Achieving consensus and co-operation is unlikely to be as straightforward as it once was. However, Taoiseach Simon Harris has said we are prepared. New channels of communication and negotiation in Washington are already being explored, he said. As a small country, our voice might be easily ignored. Yet we have proven adept at utilising soft power to excellent effect in the past. In the Irish diaspora, exceptional business and diplomatic networks, we have formidable back-up. So as the year closes, we ought to reach for that glass with customary resilience and fortitude, be it bubbly or water though Napoleon did make a compelling case for the former: Champagne! In victory, one deserves it; in defeat one needs it. Whatever your preference, and wherever you are, Happy New Year. We need to protect the source of all life. Stock photo Sir Im quite sure that river life, avian or aquatic, made short work of Mrs Gilsenans soggy pudding (Letters, December 22). Im also very certain that far more deleterious material has entered that river and all other Irish rivers in the intervening 60 or more years. I, too, was born and raised beside a lovely river, the Flesk, which is the principal tributary of Killarneys famous lakes. It was once noted for trout and salmon. Alas, that has changed, as it has for many other rivers and lakes. The stonefly and the freshwater black pearl mussels of my childhood have long since vanished and may never return. It has been said that one of the major legacies of the past half-century is the pollution of virtually every stream, river, lake and ocean while at the same time we teach our young people that water is life. It is frightening that so many of us humans still perceive our water courses to be convenient dumping places for all sorts of waste, some of it very toxic. It is almost beyond comprehension in a country awash with money that there are still places where human effluent is flowing untreated into rivers and oceans. It is frightening that microplastics are washing daily down water gullies or into roadside water drains. Unless drastic worldwide action is taken immediately, the future of our glorious planet will be most precarious. Each one of us must play our part locally and then seek to convince governments to act to protect and enhance the source of life in its many forms. Michael Gleeson, Killarney, Co Kerry Mandatory coalition should be brought in Sir Surely with the inability of any two parties in recent Dail elections to win a sufficient combined number of seats to form a government without a much smaller third party, it is time to replicate the situation in the North in the form of a mandatory coalition. In this case, the three parties with the largest number of seats would form a government in the Dail, with the smaller parties and Independents combining to form the opposition. It is simply anathema to democracy and indeed morality that any of the big three Fianna Fail, Fine Gael or Sinn Fein should be excluded from government in favour of any smaller party or mixum gatherum of Independents returned with a much lower mandate than any of the big three, and whose influence on government policies is ultimately negligible, as past experience demonstrates. Other advantages are the immediate formation of a government post election, and a large section of the electorate no longer experiencing disenfranchisement. In my view, this would place responsibility on the big three to shed some of their wilder notions and, faced with reality of governing together, compromise accordingly to simply produce better government for the greatest number of people. Tony Fearon, Poyntzpass, Co Down Give peace a chance for once in 2025 Sir It is an interesting time for Pope Francis to have ushered in a Holy Year for the global Catholic Church, also known as a jubilee. It is a time for peace, forgiveness and pardon. With the sad reality of Bethlehem closed for Christmas for the second year running and our news feeds dominated by images of the brutal reality of life in war-torn Gaza and Ukraine, it is a time for everyone everywhere to use whatever influence they possess to promote and protect peace. This starts in our homes and extends outward into our schools, workplaces and communities. Will 2025 be the year peace finally has a chance? Stephen OHara, Carrowmore, Co Sligo Insurance firms do not reward loyalty Sir Eighteen months ago, the Central Bank banned price walking by insurance companies. This means the lower price offered to new customers as an enticement should be available to all policyholders. Despite this, motorists with no claims are getting renewal notices sent by no-reply emails with increases of up to 40pc. Then some companies in their email state that your policy will automatically renew using the card or bank details they have retained on file. Is this practice ethical? When eventually one is able to make contact with the insurance company by phone with a view to switching, there is usually a better price on offer. Loyalty is no longer rewarded despite the Central Bank directive. Motorists should move away from companies who persist in this practice. Brian Lube, Co Meath Laughter is still the best medicine for us Sir I immediately thought of The Morecambe And Wise Christmas Show when I read Eilis OHanlons excellent television review (Sunday Independent, December 22). Backed up by evidence from psychologists and sociologists, she explains that sitting with family watching TV is one of the rituals that is not just good for us, but for society. Our dad would put his head round the door when Mick Jagger was leppin around the stage on Top Of The Pops and mutter his disapproval. But every Sunday evening, the whole family would be laughing at The Muppet Show. That is a memory I treasure. We all learn from the big films and documentaries, bringing tears to our eyes and reassuring cuddles given to heartbroken youngsters and a few oldsters. For festive TV, I recommend multiple viewings of Elf, obviously The Muppets, Father Ted, Brendan Grace and any Morecambe And Wise show, as I still believe laughter is the best medicine. Joan Reidy, Malahide, Co Dublin Irish politicians are not always savvy Sir Paul Mullan (Letters, December 22) opines that Irish politicians, being the savvy creatures they are, generally reflect the views of their constituents. Has he forgotten the debacle of the referendum in March 2024 when every political party advocated a Yes vote? The electorate were of a different mindset. So much for their so-called savviness. Aileen Hooper, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7 In praise of doing absolutely nothing Sir A humdinger of a dose knocked me for six recently and no matter how many remedies and quick fixes I took, it just wouldnt go away. So after much kicking and resisting and finally giving myself permission, I slowed down and hibernated. Going nowhere and doing nothing is rather enjoyable when you are nicely tucked up in a warm house listening to the wind and rain outside. What else did I do? I watched lots of TV, read lots of books, did loads of mooching and even more ruminating. Ruminating is possibly the best non-active activity you can do for yourself (trust me, give it a try). I put the world to rights, cleared myself of all the busyness and wallowed in my little world of hibernation. Now Im almost better and as I look out my rather grimy windows, I feel quite smug because they no longer bother me. I might even get dressed soon. Bernie Kirwan, Gorey, Co Wexford Legend of the fox illustrated in crib Sir Christmas cribs have an enduring appeal, even for those of a non-religious persuasion, but my all-time favourite is the one displayed each year at the Dominican Church in Limerick. It has the usual permanent cast the infant Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and the livestock but, unlike any other crib in Ireland, it also has an effigy of a little fox. This additional feature recalls a legend associated with the Holy Family, according to which one of the Three Wise Men gifted a fox cub to the infant Jesus. By the time the animal had grown to adulthood, King Herod had sent his troops with their packs of bloodhounds to hunt down the Holy Family. The legend states that the fox threw the deadly cavalcade off the scent, thus enabling Mary, Joseph and Jesus to evade capture. As a campaigner against blood sports, I like this story, because it does homage to a humble and much-maligned creature that has long been part of the Irish countryside, but that is hounded by humans. Im not sure how or where the legend originated, but I hope that in the new year the wily fox will fare better, with plans afoot for bills to abolish hunting in both Northern Ireland and the Republic. But for now, I admire that little effigy in the crib. With the tally-ho season in full swing, I reckon hes the only safe fox in Ireland. John Fitzgerald, Callan, Co Kilkenny Ireland was not the only colony in EU Sir Writing about the sins of colonialism (Opinion, December 15), Conor Skehan describes Ireland as the only country in the EU to have once been a colony. Leaving aside the thorny issue of whether Ireland was in fact a British colony, or rather an integral part of the United Kingdom, the statement does not do justice to the historical experience of other EU countries. To mention a few the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were colonised by Soviet Russia from 1944 to 1990, including the mass deportations of their citizens to Siberia, and resettling of Russians in their territories. Poland was progressively carved up and occupied by Russia, Prussia and Austria, until it disappeared from the map of Europe between 1795 and 1917. Indeed, when taking a longer perspective, there is scarcely an EU country that did not experience invasion, settlement, conquest and colonisation of some sort. Each of these experiences left a trace on the national psyche, and can help explain foreign policy attitudes and actions in our own time. Fearghas OBeara, Brussels, Belgium Stunning photos capture humanity Sir Your stunning collection of photographic images from the past 12 months uniquely capture the human condition and the myriad stories of life and death (Behind the Lens, Life magazine). I was particularly struck by Carl Courts (Getty Images) shot of Simon Harris and Keir Starmer both enjoying a pint of Guinness last July at Chequers. The pint of plain is seemingly in short supply in Britain as drinks giant Diageo is struggling to keep up with incessant demand there. Meanwhile, Simon Harris will be drowning his sorrows on what might have been for him in 2024. Tom McElligott, Listowel, Co Kerry Israeli government is the target for Irish ire Sir David Quinn opened his column of December 15 with the damning sentence: Ireland is one of the most anti-Israel countries in Europe. Having casually branded the citizenry as a whole, he then spent the rest of the article castigating only political parties and politicians. Like many commenting on the ongoing slaughter in Gaza, he would have your readers believe the conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians all started on October 7, 2023. The reality is this is a 100-year war, and that the current conflict is the most protracted period of fighting with the highest number of casualties, since the victors of World War I (Britain, France and the US) determined an Israeli state should be established in Palestine. While I would never regard myself as an apologist for politicians, my sense is official Ireland has consistently condemned the attacks of October 7, at the same time being critical of the lack of any sense of proportionality of the Israeli government, as it prosecutes an unfettered campaign of death and destruction on militants and non-combatants in Gaza. Irelands long history of being an oppressed people appears to inform how many politicians, political parties and the wider community see this horrendous situation unfolding before our eyes. This view and projected criticism of the Israeli government cannot be seen as an attack on adherents of Judaism. The Israeli government conflates criticism of their policies as antisemitic. If the definition of antisemitism is so intertwined with the Israeli government, then the world has given them a free pass to do as they see fit, without consequence. If those of the Jewish faith in Ireland were to be openly critical of the Israeli government for their campaign of slaughter, as those of the organisation Jews for Palestine have been, then the disquiet expressed by those mentioned in David Quinns article may feel less isolated. Philip Brady, Donnycarney, Dublin 9 US could take a dim view of our stance Sir This country could be losing the run of itself in condemning Israel, notwithstanding the humanitarian situation. You can be damn sure Washington is watching events in Ireland and it may not be long before our Department of Foreign Affairs gets a cold shower in the shape of a communique or telephone call from Israels big brother? We are up to our necks in public debt put at 350bn and heavily reliant on foreign direct investment, chiefly from the US. What we get mostly from the EU is structural funds for road projects and other state architecture. But most of our business is US-led. Some of the biggest US names are over here and our Government and President are playing a very sensitive diplomatic game which could backfire. Maurice Fitzgerald, Shanbally, Co Cork Media should put focus on ceasefire Sir On a day where the last remaining hospital in Gaza was under siege, where doctors begged for the worlds attention, you carried a piece about how Ireland could do more to tackle antisemitism (Barry OHalloran). And a picture of a Palestine child enjoying the beach in Gaza during the summer (Page 10, Life). What journalism is this? When thousands of people have been killed, including media. All those poor people in Palestine have is hope. The hope we will do the right thing. If what the Israeli government is doing has not rocked you to your core, then I ask where is your humanity? We should all be screaming for a ceasefire. The children that will die today are depending on it. R Murtagh, by email Euphemisms often hide war crimes Sir It is hard to disagree with Eilis OHanlons (Sunday Independent, December 22) contention that Simon Harris has not made a single positive contribution to smoothing over the diplomatic spat between Ireland and Israel. She also makes a valid point when she states that unlike Israel, allowances are made for our friends when they commit war crimes. Isnt that to our shame? That said, I suspect Netanyahu is more interested in politically neutralising Irelands voice, especially in the US, than in reconciliation. The reservation I have with OHanlons article is that it distils the slaughter in Gaza down to complex issues that require pragmatism, rather than the moral absolutes offered by Simon Harris. She also equates the ugly choices of war with screw-ups and collateral damage. The classic euphemism to camouflage and obscure war crimes. Professor Omer Bartov, a renowned Israeli-American historian, has described Gaza as looking like Hiroshima. There is no organised resistance to the IDF and what we are seeing is a war of annihilation whose goal is to cleanse Gaza of the Palestinian population. As Pope Francis notes: This is cruelty. This is not war. This description is supported by numerous independent bodies, such as Haaretz, Amnesty International, and UN reports. The only real debate is whether this constitutes genocide, rather than ethnic cleansing or crimes against humanity. Andy Hales, Kenmare, Co Kerry Alps Electric sponsored a 3 D Printer to ther Engineering Department in Millstreet Community School, pupils Hannah Casey, Conor Kelleher, Peter O'Sullivan, Alise Simkina and Katie O'Keeffe joined by Brian Kelleher, teacher; Frances Moynihan, Vice Principal;John Foley, Managing Director, Alps Electric; Noreen Dineen, HR, Alps Electric and Pol O Siodhchain, Principal, Millstreet Community School. Picture John Tarrant Millstreet Community School students are designing innovative projects utilising advanced manufacturing technologies thanks to the support of the towns largest Employer Alps Electric. The partnership allows engineering students participate in the Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) promotion of a Transition Year Work Experience Programme to provide students with hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technologies currently shaping the way products are manufactured such as 3D printing, collaborative robots and augmented and virtual reality. Alps Electric (Ireland) Limited engaged with the IMR and Millstreet Community School to introduce this programme through sponsoring the provision of a 3D printer. Students are currently hands-on working with the equipment and making many different products. This is a wonderful experience for the student and hopefully it will promote Engineering as a career choice for students, said John Foley, Managing Director, Alps. Millstreet Community School Engineering Teacher Brian Kelleher applauded the concept and participation the 3D Printing Challenge empowers students creatively and practically. We have adapted and tailored the Ideas Made Real Module and further advanced the opportunities available to students. Our school is lucky to have been sponsored by ALPS Alpine, they have been very supportive of this initiative and their support has led to the acquisition of advanced educational resources such as computer programming kits and equipment as well as a top of the range 3d Printer, said Mr. Kelleher. Millstreet Community School is extremely grateful for this support and the opportunity to work with a Global Tech Company such as ALPS. Through ALPS support, the school received a top of the range 3D Printer and advanced coding and electronic equipment to support our students learning, he said. ALPS Electric (Ireland) Ltd. was founded in Millstreet in 1988, delivering High Quality Electronic products to exacting delivery requirements. Additionally, Alps has developed products locally for IoT technology devices and services. Mr. Foley along with Noreen Dineen, Human Resources, Health & Safety Manager Alps interacted with students and viewed their progress evolving in technology education as a direct result of the companys much appreciated investment. There are a lot of people working who cant afford to put food on the table Some of the hundreds of hampers distributed by Save Our Homeless Dundalk Hundreds of families in the Dundalk area who are struggling to make ends meet were able to enjoy Christmas thanks to the generosity of those who donated to local charities. As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, local charities worked tirelessly in the run up to Christmas to make sure that everyone had a festive dinner on their table and toys under the tree for their children. Sonja Van Kalkeren and her team of volunteers at Save Our Homeless were working flat out in the days running up to Christmas, even putting in a 21 hour shift on Christmas Eve, to deliver food and gifts to hundreds of families in Dundalk. They did so thanks to the generosity of local people, groups and shops who came together to donate the ingredients not just for Christmas dinner but for seasonal happiness. Weve just been so busy its been crazy, Sonja said as she thanked everyone who helped them. "We were working non-stop in the run-up to Christmas, doing 21 hours on Christmas Eve and 19 hours the day before. Its been a very tough time. She said that the number of requests for help had definitely gone up this year. "There are a lot of people working who cant afford to put food on the table the working poor. And a lot of people wouldnt have had Santa calling but for us. Its very sad. The volunteers at St Patricks Soup Kitchens and Food Parcels also distributed 95 food parcels to those in need thanks to the many individuals, groups, schools, clubs and local businesses who supported them with donations throughout the year. St Vincent de Paul also provided assistance to local families providing them with vouchers so that they would have food on the table. The Singh family who run the popular Sitar restaurant in Dundalk also donated meals to those in need for the fifth year in a row. Posting on social media, they said We're overflowing with warmth and gratitude after our annual Christmas dinner. This year, we were truly humbled to serve a staggering 95 meals, including a delicious starter, main course, rice, and fresh Naan bread, delivered to homes across the community. The generosity of our community never ceases to amaze us. A special thank you to the kind lady and her daughter who left a box of sweets for those who received our meals such a sweet gesture that brought extra smiles to their faces. There is widespread worry over the future of small businesses in Enniscorthy town following the closure of three businesses ahead of the new year; La Barista, Put a Bow on It, and The Tin Roof. The owner of popular ladies fashion boutique Put a Bow on It, surprised locals when she announced that they would be closing their doors after 14 years on the Main Street of the town. Aoife Foran said that the shop had always been her dream, but that as a small business they struggled with the cost. "It was such a huge part of my life I opened when my twins were two and now they are 16. It's been such an honour to work with women from Enniscorthy and further afield. Women came in at different stages, after their babies or for funerals and we laughed and cried many a day. I hope I gave them confidence when they needed it. Communion, weddings, christenings, we have dressed ladies for it all, she said. "My idea for the shop was to use clothes to make the most of a woman's best features, to embrace their shape and style. Unfortunately, the small shops are struggling with huge overheads, she added. She also thanked everyone who supported her over the years, including her parents and Marie Mythen, Dee Greenwood and Sue Mernagh. Regular customers and caffeine lovers were also saddened to learn that La Barista cafe has closed its doors after two and a half years of business. La Barista closed after two and a half years. The owners of the cafe, which was located on Cathedral Street opposite St Aidans Cathedral, made the announcement to their followers on Christmas Eve, December 24. "Dear customers and friends, it is with a heavy heart that we inform you that La Barista is permanently closed. Thank you to all our wonderful customers who have supported us, we are very sorry and we will miss you very much, they said. The cafe, that provided Italian coffee and homemade pastries, was initially opened in July 2022 by Maja Kolombu. However, Maja was forced to leave Ireland in September 2023 due to a family emergency. At the time, she explained that she would be leaving the business in trusted hands while thanking local residents and businesses for their support. "Our beloved La Barista shop will stay in the hands of people who are so much deserving of your support. I have no doubt that you will fall head over heels for Erna's smile and Darios baked magic. They will get all my recipes I worked so hard to develop, the recipe for the best coffee in town and La Barista will stay exactly the same, but better - they have some of their own surprises for you too, she said at the time. "I deeply hope that you will accept them with the same openness with which you have accepted me. Thank you so much for all the support, understanding, trust, and friendship, she added. As such, the business was taken over by Erna and Dario Benic who reopened the cafe on Friday, October 6, with the hopes of continuing what their predecessor started. The owners of the Tin Roof, a food stall just outside the town, announced on Wednesday, December 11 that they would be having their last official day of business on Sunday, December 29 due to issues over their location. "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the closure of The Tin Roof. Unfortunately our location is no longer available to us. We want to take this opportunity to thank all our customers and employees that have been on the journey with us for the past almost four years, nothing would have been if it wasn't for you all, they said. However, despite the closure, they revealed that they hope to re-open in a different location in the near future, though it wont be immediately. Jimmy Gahan, who has worked extensively with local businesses over the years, said that although business was good within the town at Christmas, small businesses had been suffering considerably for quite a while. Following the news, local business owner Alfie OSullivan has said that the towns demise can be boiled down to lack of parking and retail variety, as well as a lacklustre night-time economy. "This time last year I sadly had to close down my party shop and there have been countless other small business closures this year in between. Enniscorthy, like so many small towns, is losing out to bigger towns with better facilities transport, parking, better retail variety and night-time economy are key factors in our demise. Not to mention that culture and tourism are not being invested in correctly, he said. He believes that people need to be more accepting and supportive of the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan, which has been a big topic of discussion and contention over the last few months. However, regardless of peoples views on pedestrianisation, the plan involves huge investment in making the town more attractive to big name brands and tourists. "I appreciate that people dont like change, but without it, we wont have a town left to change. The plans for the town regeneration may not please everyone, but its the best thing to happen to our area in a long time. Other areas would beg for such an investment, he added. Street performers in Wexford town will be able to play music at a higher decibel than anywhere else in the country following the adoption of new by-laws by the County Council. Following appeals from the performers themselves and representations by elected officials, Wexford County Council presented an updated list of by-laws at the December meeting of the Borough District. District manager Anthony Bailey explained that the changes, which include lowering the age at which a performer can play unsupervised to 16, came on foot of a consultation with the Irish Street Arts Circus and Spectacle Network (ISACS) "Its our wish that Wexford town will be a vibrant area welcoming to all buskers and performers, said Mr Bailey. We see the value in providing a space for youngsters to develop their skills while ensuring comfortable use of the streets for those who use them, including business owners and their staff. Weve brought the age restrictions down to 16 and raised the decibel level to 85 which is higher than anywhere in the country. Councillor Leonard Kelly, who had campaigned for the by-laws to be amended, welcomed this update. There was a genuine sense among performers that their livelihood was going to be impacted, he noted. He was joined by Cllr Tom Forde, who had also requested changes. Its great to see consultation with the artists and a more reasonable approach being taken, he said. Cllr Raymond Shannon however, was concerned that the countys younger talents would not be afforded the ability to showcase their talents to the public under the new laws. Theres a lot of buskers who are very talented and are under 16, he said. They cant dream big; why cant they express themselves and show people what they can do? The age limits came from feedback from the ISACS," replied Mr Bailey, but they can still perform if an adult is present with them. Parish of Powerscourt with Kilbride Services at Powerscourt with Kilbride: All Services are available on the Parish YouTube Channel. Service of Worship in St. Patricks Church, Powerscourt, for this Sunday, The Second Sunday of Christmas: 11.30am Morning Prayer 2. Service of Worship in St. Brigids Church, Kilbride, for this Sunday, The Second Sunday of Christmas: 9.45am Holy Communion 1. The Living Room: The next meeting with St. Marys Enniskerry takes place at 11am on Wednesday February 5th in St. Marys Irish Trefoil GuildGuiding for Life: Calling all former leaders of the Irish Girl Guides in Bray and the surrounding area. There is now a Trefoil Guild in Bray. Contact Anne at braytrefoilguild@gmail.com St Marys Church Parish Website: www.enniskerryparish.ie is the Parish website of the Immaculate Heart of Marycheck it out for the latest information about our parish. Facebook Page: There is a facebook page for the parish of Enniskerry, incorporating all four churches which facebook users will find under Enniskerry parish with a cover photo of trees and profile picture of a quote from Pope Francis. Please give it a like and feel free to post news from your community. Enniskerry (also Curtlestown & Glencree) Parish Office opening times: Monday to Friday: 10am to 1pm; email: stmarys@enniskerryparish.ie; or call 01-2760030. St. Mochonogs Parish Office opening times: Monday: 9am to 2pm, Tuesday: (by phone) 10am to 1pm, Wednesday: 10am to 2pm, Thursday (by phone) 10am to 1pm. Closed Friday. Parish Churches Schedule of Masses: Enniskerry St. Marys: Saturday evening 6pm and also via parish webcam; Sunday 11am and also via parish webcam. Weekday Mass at Enniskerry is at 10.15am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and also via parish webcam lay-led prayer service on Wednesday; and Saturday at 10.15am, and also available via the parish webcam. Masses in Curtlestown and Kilmacanogue are on Sunday at 10am. Mass in Glencree is at 9am on the first Sunday each month. The Living Room: The next meeting with St. Patricks Powerscourt takes place at 11am on Wednesday February 5th in St Marys. Baptism Requests: Requests for Baptism now take place online at www.enniskerryparish.ie. Downtime Thursday/Adoration: Downtime Thursday has now reverted to the last Thursday of the Month so the next one will take place on Thursday January 30th from 7pm to 8pm so why not pop into the church for some quiet time.. You can sit in silence with candlelight and gentle music. Take a few minutes for yourself and just be. Light a candle, say a prayer. Just sit if thats what you need. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place. New Here?: You are very welcome. You can keep up to date with us through the parish web-page at www.enniskerryparish.ie. You can register as a parishioner by mailing us at stmarys@enniskerryparish.ie or stmochonogs@enniskerryparish.ie. If you wish to receive items, or if you would like to receive the Parish Link by email weekly please phone the Parish Office in Enniskerry on 01-2760030 (10am to 1pm Monday to Friday or email: stmarys@enniskerry.ie; and Kilmacanogue on 01-2021882 (10am to 1pm Monday to Thursday) or email:stmochonogs@enniskerryparish.ie. Broadcast List: A broadcast list for the parish is now up and running. This is to keep everyone up to date with what is happening in the parish and for easy communication in relation to building our communities. If you would like to have your name added to the list please contact Aideen at 086 8182 241. History Society Members and supporters of the Enniskerry History Society are asked to note that the following events will take place in the week ahead. Next Tuesday Bill Saunderson will present The journey of researching a family history at 8pm to the Killiney Historical Society in the Druids Chair Pub upstairs lounge, Killiney Hill Road, Rocheshill, Killiney, Co. Dublin. All are welcome admission is 5. Next Wednesday Robert Nicholson will present Tales from the Tower at 8pm to the Rathmichael Historical Society in Rathmichael National School, Stonebridge Road, Shankill, Co. Dublin. All are welcome. Admission is 5 for non-members. On Thursday January 9th Michael Traynor will present Petticoat Pilots at 8pm to Kilmacud-Stillorgan Local History Society in St. Lawrences Parish Centre, Lower Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin. Members are free visitors 3. Please note that there is a car parking charge of 1 per hour at this venue coin payment only. On Friday January 10th as part of the Marino 100 History Talks, Sam McGrath will present The IRA in Fairview/Drumcondra 1916-1923: Including the veterans who moved into Marino after the Civil War at 7pm in Carleton Hall (Marino Community Centre), 53A Shermartin Avenue, Dublin 3; Michal Barr will present 24 Shipwrecks on the Irish Coast: The Spanish Armada and Ireland at 8pm to the Military History Society of Ireland in Griffith College, South Circular Road, Dublin 8. All are welcome. In the meantime members and supporters can catch up on their local history reading with the 2024 issue of the Dublin Historical Record published by the Old Dublin Society, which includes the following articles From the Editor, The Old Dublin Society 1934-2024, 90 Years of Historical Study, Senator John ONeill, Cycle Manufacturer and Motor Assembler and The Earthquake of 1852 by Thomas Burke, Laura Stephens (1875-1958): A life of many parts by John Lucey, Glasnevin Village and its Fingal Setting: A Glimpse of the Place and its Lower Sort over the Centuries by Proinsias de Rossa, Industrious Poor and Strolling Vagabonds: Attitudes and Responses to Poverty in 18th Century Dublin by Francis Thackaberry, John (Fiott) Lees Visits to Dublin, 1806 and 1807 by Angela Byrne, The Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick by Albert Fenton, Dublins Fruit and Vegetable Market, Associated Staff and Personalities by John Conroy, Steering the Vessel Safely Home: The Irish Free State Pilots Association, 1935-1962 by Francis Devine, The Coming of the Railway to Inchicore by Liam OMeara, Some Notes on Adderig by Brian McCabe. A 1918 Police Shooting of a Burglar in Shankill and A Forgotten Proposed Railway to Sandymount by James Scannell, and Sir John Rogersons Quay (STRQ) Transition from industrial to residual, 1960-1980 by Sean Magee. Copies can be ordered via www.olddublinsociety.ie. Enniskerry Library Enniskerry Library is closed for the New Year Break and will re-open this Friday at 10.30am. Opening hours are Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Wednesday: 2pm to 4.30pm & 6pm to 8pm; Friday: 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Saturday: 10am to 2.30pm. The Library is closed on Mondays and Thursdays and on the Saturdays of Bank Holiday weekends. The Library can be contacted at 01-2864339 or email: enniskerrylib@wicklowcoco.ie. On-line services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available from the library website. Bridge Club Enniskerry Bridge Club meets every Tuesday night in the Parochial Hall (beside Poppies) at 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. For more information please contact the Secretary on 085-7112179. The granddaughter of beloved Baltinglass local Marie OShea (nee Byrne), who was known for her beaming smile, generous nature and love of chats, paid tribute to her adored grandmother at her funeral on Saturday. Maries granddaughter Clare Kealy delivered a touching tribute to the kind-hearted mother of two at St. Josephs Church in Baltinglass, where the rich life of the well-travelled card game enthusiast was celebrated by her hometown community. Born on September 23, 1939, Marie grew up in Weaver Square, staying in the family home until August 9, 2023, when ill health forced her into hospital. The only daughter of her much-loved parents, Jim and Bridget, and sister of Jim and Maurice, as a young woman Marie worked in CIE, where she forged many friendships. She then met the love of her life Paddy who passed away just five years into their marriage and together they had two daughters, Ann Marie and Catherine. A lover of card games (especially bridge) and a popular figure around Baltinglass, Marie could often be seen standing out at her door in Weaver Square, greeting passersby and welcoming guests into her home with a smile, where Marie always had the kettle on the boil ready for a cup of tea and a chat. Her passing will leave a huge hole in the close-knit Baltinglass community, some of whom, reflecting on Maries warm-hearted disposition, integrity, kindness, generosity, and love of family, have commented that Weaver Square will not be the same and one always felt better after a chat with Marie. After Maries coffin was carried into St. Josephs Church, her granddaughter Eva began by reading a touching poem in her memory entitled Our dear Nan. We gather today to celebrate Marie, our wonderful nanny. It has become quite clear over the past few days that Marie was a friend to many. To family and friends far and near, she brought comfort, joy, kindness and cheer. From baking Christmas puddings and cakes together to her big cheeky smile, even when she was under the weather. Tee-hee-hee she would always titter, she really was the best babysitter. Though now you rest, your spirit stays, well look for you in the sunrays. With love and laughter, she brightened our days, her kindness and spirit in countless ways. Many will remember Marie for her little Fiat, or her favourite window seat. Without her standing on the doorstep, Im sure there are many who are going to be upset. Though tears may fall, her light will shine, in memories cherished forever divine. So heres to Marie, so loving, so true. Our dear Nanny, we will always love you. After thanking the community on behalf of the OShea and Byrne families for their kindness and condolences over the past few days, and especially for being present at the funeral, Clare spoke eloquently about her nans well-lived life. As a young woman, she worked in CIE, where she forged many friendships. Nan then met Paddy, who she married, and together they had two daughters, AnnMarie and Catherine, she said. Paddy was the love of Nans life, but unfortunately, he was taken from her far too soon, after just five years of marriage. Nan loved to be surrounded by others, sharing laughter, stories, and friendships. Whether you were a lifelong friend or someone she had just met, she made everyone feel welcome. If you ever visited her house, you would know there was always a cup of tea ready for you. The simple act of offering a cup of tea became a symbol of her warmth, her hospitality and her love of a chat with others. The door in Weaver Square was always open, and this is something we have heard countless times over the last few days. Nans kindness and caring nature led to her having many loyal friends, whom she loved and talked so highly of. We would like to thank her many friends, for all the good times and the memories they shared with Nan, and for all the joy these times brought her. We enjoyed hearing the stories of these good times in the days past. We would like to take a moment now to remember Nans friends who have gone before her. May they greet and welcome Nan at the gates of heaven. As Clare explained, Marie had many hobbies and interests, including her love of card games, particularly bridge. Indeed, every week, she would play in Baltinglass on a Friday and travel to Tullow on Monday to play, often coming home with a big smile on her face after taking the winnings. Nan loved doing crosswords, and every week, herself and Maisie would exchange numerous phone calls as they helped each other answer the clues and complete the crossword, she continued. Politics was another interest of Nans, even up to recently, as she eagerly awaited the results of the General Election. Travel was also a passion of hers. She was always eager to travel, and during her years went on many holidays to Spain, Portugal, Italy and, of course, America. In recent years, Nan would take great joy in telling everyone about the adventures she had in America, and how she had travelled there 41 times. Although were not 100pc sure if she was there 41 times or not, she was certainly there a lot, and always welcomed with open arms by her great friends Betty (nee Hanrahan, Baltinglass) and Lough Sutton (formerly from Wicklow Town) Nan was always known for bringing home towels, bed linen and plates from her travels. In April, after Marie became sick, her family minded her in her home until August, when she became very ill and had to be brought into hospital. Detailing how Marie was very content in Baltinglass Hospital, Clare said that the staff at the hospital were exceptional, showing great care, kindness and friendship to Nan. We would like to thank all those who cared for Nan during her illness, particularly the incredible staff of Baltinglass Hospital, she added. We will be forever grateful to you all for making Nan so comfortable and happy in her final 14 months. We would like to give a mention also to all the friends Nanny made in the hospital who made her very happy, especially her roommate Ann Brophy, with whom she had a great friendship and bond. Above all, what made Nan truly special was the love she had for her family. She adored her two daughters, Ann Marie and Catherine, her face lighting up when she saw them. She also adored her grandchildren. She was so proud of each of the four of us and she beamed with pride and delight, telling others all about us. We shared many an adventure with Nan and were so thankful to have had her in our lives for so long, and for all the special memories we have of her. We will hold these dearly in our hearts. As we say goodbye to Nan, we remember her not just for the big gestures, but for the small, everyday acts of love. Today we feel her loss deeply, but we also feel an immense gratitude for the privilege of having known her and loved her. Her kindness, joy, laughter, and love will continue on in all of us. As we stand here, we feel the weight of her absence, but also the warmth of her spirit that touched each of us in profound ways. We will hold on to the memories, the lessons, and the warmth of her presence in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Nanny. You will always be loved, always be remembered, and always be missed. Love you, Nanny. Sleep well. Predeceased by her loving husband Paddy, infant brother Patrick and parents Bridget and Jim (Byrne), Marie will be sadly missed by her loving daughters Ann Marie (Murphy) and Catherine (Kealy), sons-in-law Donncha and Jim, brothers Maurice and Jim, sisters-in-law Loretto and Jo, grandchildren Clare, Eva, Padraig and Donncha, and her nephews, nieces, neighbours, relatives and many friends. Marie was buried in Baltinglass Cemetery. May she rest in peace. Seefin Events have launched an appeal against Wicklow County Councils decision to refuse an application for the retention of developments at Kippure Lodge and Holiday Village. Based in Manor Kilbride, Kippure Lodge and Holiday Village was also the focus of an enforcement notice issued by Wicklow County Council in May, calling for the demolition of 65 houses it is alleged were built without authorisation by planning permission. In September, Seefin Events sought planning permission for the retention of an ESB substation, two agricultural storage and maintenance buildings, a wooden clad dining area and kitchen, and extension to Belfry building incorporating reception, meeting room, offices, toilets, canteen, kitchen and staff facilities. The retention application also included the reconstruction, repurpose and extension of previously derelict long barn to comprise 27 bedroom units, the retention and completion of one two-storey accommodation building to provide 51 bedrooms together with unfinished attached self contained residential unit, hard standing, roads, access, car parking, set down, and recreational areas to provide play areas and outdoor seating. Kippure Manor Estate is owned by a Dublin-based company called Tondo Limited. Seefin Events is the leaseholder and operator of the Kippure Lodge and Holiday Village. Wicklow County Council refused the retention application on a number of grounds, including its close proximity to Natura 2000 sites. It was also felt that the retention would not ensure economic, environmental and social sustainability, while insufficient information was submitted regarding wastewater treatment infrastructure, surface water disposal and the impact on local biodiversity. Seefin Events has now appealed that the decision to An Bord Pleanala, and a decision is due by April 29 of 2025. An Bord Pleanala is also determining the outcome of another appeal from Seefin Events, over whether 16 structures at Kippure Lodge and Holiday Village should be deemed as exempted developments, as it is argued they are covered under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, which would make them exempt. Russia and Ukraine have exchanged prisoners of war in the latest such swap that saw the release of hundreds of captives and was brokered with the help of the United Arab Emirates, officials said yesterday. WHO chief appeals for end to Israeli raids on Gaza hospitals IDF says Hamas operatives were targets of strike on medical facility that killed seven A Palestinian boy diagnosed with malnutrition at the ICU of Nasser hospital, in Khan Younis, Gaza. Photo: Reuters Dave Graham Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 03:30 The head of the World Health Organisation has called for an end to attacks on hospitals in Gaza after Israel struck one and raided another in the past few days. Students hold white flowers in front of the court building as the verdict is given in a trial of the parents of a boy who killed 10 people in a school shooting in 2023 in Belgrade (Darko Vojinovic/AP) Sonic the Hedgehog 3 OTT Release Update: This Jeff Fowler directorial has already been a box-office hit, taking the top spot in North America with a solid $62 million opening, one of the best in recent December releases. Amid several assumptions being made about its streaming station, an IGN report has confirmed that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will be streaming on Paramount+. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 OTT release date Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was available on streaming just over six weeks after its theatre release, and similar films like Smile 2 and A Quiet Place: Day One followed a comparable timeline. Similarly, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has followed the same pattern and is ready to stream on Paramount+ from February 18, 2025. More about Sonic the Hedgehog 3 The movie has earned praise for its action-packed plot and performances, especially from Jim Carrey as the villain Dr. Ivo Robotnik, and new cast member Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog. This action-adventure comedy, based on the iconic Sega video game series, is the third instalment in the Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 features a star-studded cast, including returning actors Ben Schwartz (Sonic), Colleen O'Shaughnessey (Tails), Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, and Idris Elba, along with new additions Krysten Ritter and Keanu Reeves. In this sequel, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles must face a new enemyShadow the Hedgehogwho teams up with the mad scientists Ivo and Gerald Robotnik to take on humanity in a quest for revenge. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. It's officialAngelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, once the golden couple of Hollywood, have finally closed the book on their turbulent divorce saga after eight long years. And if you thought your favorite reality show had drama, think again! The Brangelina saga ends This love story-turned-legal circus began in September 2016 when Jolie, then 41, filed for divorce just days after an alleged incident aboard a private plane. Reports suggested Pitt had been abusive to Jolie and their six children during the flight, setting off an avalanche of legal battles and public disputes. The Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt divorce is finally done Fast forward to December 30, 2024, and the duo have finally signed their divorce papers. According to a report by People magazine, Jolie's lawyer shared that the actress is exhausted after the drawn-out process but relieved that this chapter is over. The statement emphasized Jolie's focus on peace and healing for her family, which has been her priority throughout the ordeal. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt - Couples goals in Hollywood For a couple who once redefined relationship goals in Hollywood, their split became a masterclass in What not to do in a divorce. Despite initially agreeing to handle the matter privately, public allegations, custody battles, and property disputes turned their breakup into a headline-grabbing affair. Let's not forget their fairytale origins. Jolie and Pitt were Hollywood's darlings for over a decade before tying the knot in 2014. With six children, their union seemed invincibleuntil it wasn't. By 2019, a judge declared them legally single, but the divorce process dragged on for another five years. Brangelina fans react Fans and critics alike have followed this saga closely, but now it seems the dust has finally settled. As the world bids adieu to Brangelina, one thing is clear: even Hollywood's biggest stars can't escape the messiness of love and loss. So, here's to the end of an eraand to never looking back. Will Jolie and Pitt's next chapters bring more peace or more drama? Well, only time will tell. Telecom fraud suspects prosecuted 08:43, December 31, 2024 By Lei Lei, Li Shangyi ( China Daily Thirty-nine members of major criminal gangs based in northern Myanmar were prosecuted on Monday by a procuratorate in East China's Zhejiang province for telecom fraud and other crimes targeting Chinese citizens. The case filed with the Wenzhou Intermediate People's Court has charged the suspects with fraud, intentional homicide, intentional injury, unlawful detention, casino operation, drug trafficking, and prostitution, according to the Wenzhou procuratorate. The criminal gangs, operating in northern Myanmar's Kokang region, which borders China's Yunnan province, are accused of using arms and coercion to carry out the crimes, including large-scale telecom fraud and internet scams targeting Chinese citizens. Wang Sheng, deputy chief procurator of the Wenzhou procuratorate, said the case involves thousands of suspects, because the major criminal gangs and their affiliates have extensive networks. "Some of the crimes took place on the Chinese side of the border, specifically targeted Chinese citizens and jeopardized the shared interests of the international community, therefore granting China jurisdiction over these offenses under its Criminal Law and international treaties," he said. Wang added that thousands of suspects linked to northern Myanmar's criminal gangs are currently under investigation by procuratorates in Wenzhou and other locations across China. The 39 suspects prosecuted on Monday include Mg Myin Shaunt Phyin, Ma Thiri Maung, and Myin Shut Lan, who are all members of a family-run syndicate founded by Mye Shout Hkyann. Mye Shout Hkyann was a former member of Myanmar's Shan State parliament and a former member of the Kokang self-administered zone's leadership committee. He killed himself before Myanmar police could arrest him on Nov 15, 2023. Wenzhou procurators reported that 16 defendants of the transnational criminal case are citizens of Myanmar. Wang said the family-run syndicate established several gambling and crime dens in Kokang since 2015, recruiting personnel to carry out telecom fraud among other criminal activities. There was a time when nearly 10,000 recruits worked in these dens, Wang added. A 29-year-old man from Guangdong province, surnamed Li, illegally entered Myanmar in September 2023 in search of lucrative employment opportunities. "I had to make hundreds of fraudulent calls every day. I had to successfully lure at least three victims a day. Otherwise, I was beaten," Li said. The family-run syndicate offered a safe haven for various fraudulent activities such as fake investments, impersonation of public officials, and counterfeit credit services, defrauding victims of billions of Chinese yuan. Wang, the deputy chief procurator, said the syndicate operated casinos catering exclusively to Chinese nationals, with gambling funds reaching billions of yuan. It harbored illegal activities such as organizing prostitution involving Chinese women and selling drugs to Chinese citizens. Wang Zao, deputy head of Wenzhou's public security bureau, said the family-run syndicate used its power and influence accumulated over time, as well as hired guns, to maintain control. Na Xin, leader of the crime investigation team of Kunming's public security bureau, said that Mg Myin Shaunt Phyin is a militia leader who used armed personnel to shield the syndicate's operations. "The family reaped enormous profits from these crime dens," Na added. Since China launched its special crackdown on telecom fraud in July 2023, over 53,000 suspects have been extradited from northern Myanmar to China through joint law enforcement efforts, the Ministry of Public Security reported in November. In October 2023, the syndicate attempted to relocate its recruits to evade police scrutiny. "My grandfather asked me to transfer these people when the investigation begins and bring them back later," said Myin Shut Lan, the granddaughter of Mye Shout Hkyann. On Oct 20 last year, some of the syndicate's recruits tried to escape after realizing that they could not return to China. The syndicate's guards opened fire on them, killing four Chinese nationals and injuring another four. The legal rights of all defendants, including Myanmar nationals, will be strictly safeguarded in accordance with the law, said Wang Sheng, the deputy chief procurator. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) The global sensation and one of the biggest boy bands in the world, BTS, have faced numerous challenges on their journey to the top as they continue to rule the music industry. From racism and xenophobia to even being used by the GRAMMYs for views, ARMYtheir fandomhas witnessed it all. However, what hurts fans the most is that BTS' own country, South Korea, and its government have allegedly used the group to their advantage. SO WE WERE RIGHT AGAIN. They were blackmailed by the government since they didnt want to be part of the inauguration. The sudden tax audit and everything oh Jesus https://t.co/xfGybfar7f Marina (@monchildnj) December 30, 2024 On October 15, 2022, BTS held a free concert in Busan to promote the citys bid to host the 2030 World Expo. BTS was named Honorary Ambassadors for the 2030 Busan Expo and took part in promotional activities supporting the bid. The concert, originally planned for the Busan Ilgwang Special Stage, was moved to the Asiad Main Stadium due to concerns. Around 50,000 people attended the concert in person, with an additional 10,000 watching a live retransmission at Busan Port. ARMY unhappy: While fans were aware the concert was free and knew about the surrounding challenges, they were shocked to learn that the Busan government allegedly shirked responsibility, leaving HYBE, BigHit, and BTS to bear the full burden. In the past 24 hours, ARMY has been sharing a South Korean news report stating that the seven members were supposed to receive 7 billion KRW (approximately $4.75M USD) for their participation in the Busan World Expo bid. The news reports that BTS were supposed to receive 7 billion KRW, being $4.75M USD, for their concert in Busan World Expo bid. But the South Korean government ultimately scammed them - making them not only perform for free, but also bear all concert organization costs. The https://t.co/1uC5RnX5Us pic.twitter.com/BihQ1Y5awB gomooshin (@taesoothe) December 30, 2024 Were BTS scammed by the Government? The South Korean government has been accused of exploiting BTSnot only making them perform for free but also forcing them to bear all the organizational costs for their Busan concert. Initially, the government proposed a venue with poor safety measures for mass events, posing significant risks to fans. This left BTS and their agency responsible for securing a safer alternative, ultimately the Busan Asiad Stadium. According to ARMY, this wasn't the only instance of the government attempted to exploit the group. In 2023, during another promotional event, the Jamboree concert, organizational issues again surfaced and the government tried to get BTS out of the military to save face. So you are telling me BTS were supposed to receive 7 billion of won (4.7 million of dollars) for their free concert on Busan but instead the government refused to pay them and scammed them?!?! This is sick, Sk truly don't deserve them :( https://t.co/AacT9Kx5gx Carolyne (@mhereonlyforbts) December 30, 2024 Reports revealed that the Ministry of Defense urged the government to "take all measures" to compel BTS to perform, including leveraging their authority over enlisted members. Thankfully, BigHit successfully rejected the proposal, sparking broader discussions about the potential exploitation if all seven members. In addition to all this, the government also proposed controversial laws allowing BTS members to serve their military duties in staggered periods, enabling performances in between for the national economy. However, these propositions drew criticism. Current laws would prohibit enlisted soldiers from earning money through external jobs, meaning BTS would perform without compensation. Critics saw this as another attempt to exploit the group without offering the exemption they arguably deserved. Where is BTS currently? Apart from Jin and J-Hope, who have completed their mandatory military service, the rest of the membersSuga, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkookare still enlisted and are expected to complete their service by June 2025. ARMY is excited for an OT7 reunion and hopes the boys come out mentally stronger, allowing them to avoid such issues in the future and focus solely on themselves. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. In a shocking incident, a 24-year-old influencer, Victoria Waldrip, from America, a.k.a. Woah Vicky on social media, recently received a major backlash after conducting a fake kidnapping of herself because she was 'bored.' Woah Vicky shared a series of posts about being on a trip to Nigeria. The initial tweets of her trip on X (formerly called Twitter) showed that she was having a great time, but the tone suddenly changed as she seemed to want to return home. This post left her fans and friends concerned, and they shared numerous posts on Instagram worrying about Woah Vicky's safety. Not only this, but a police complaint was also made, according to her friends. Hello, I just wanted to come on here one last time to sincerely apologize to anyone I may have harmed during this prank. Not thinking things through comes with consequences, and Im paying for it now. My brother, father dmw looked out for me throughout my entire trip to Woah Vicky (@woahhvickyyy) December 30, 2024 Demanded $1 million for her release from being kidnapped One of the deleted posts shared from Woah Vickys X account, but claiming to be written by someone else, read, I have kidnapped Vicky. She is with me in Nigeria. I am demanding $1 million for her release. However, after this post, the influencer revealed that the whole thing was fake and she was fine. She also did the prank just because she was bored, she noted. Sorry about that; everythings good yall, she said. I was bored and having fun, just getting a laugh. Just getting a laugh, fam. Thats it. Its all love, Im just having fun with my brother, everythings good. Update: WoahVicky says oops my bad after starting a false rumor that an African man kidnapped her in Nigeria I was just bored forgive me yall pic.twitter.com/G79OuHR7AP Rain Drops Media (@Raindropsmedia1) December 29, 2024 Later she apologised to her social media followers for starting a fake rumour. Here's how netizens react to the post, a look at some comments Netizens unsurprisingly were less than impressed by her antics. Expressing the anger, one user wrote, Isnt this a f****** crime? While another wrote, Real funny because its not like anyone has ever been killed or falsely imprisoned for stupid s*** like this." Isnt this a fucking crime https://t.co/N4uY8QoDYP Elgin Barrett Eugene Smith lll (@Southside_Gunn) December 29, 2024 One person simply expressed that she was disgusted by this act. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Elon Musk's 76-year-old mother, Maye Musk, is making headlines in China not only as the mother of one of the world's most famous tech entrepreneurs but also as a model and nutritionist. She attends several fashion shows, events, and galas across the country and has won the hearts of the public with her grace and flair. Maye Musk is now an international brand ambassador for prominent brands like OPPO and AISE Baobao. She even walked for the Chinese fashion brand JNBY. Maye Musk is now an international brand ambassador for prominent brands Her presence in China, which has one of the world's highest levels of interest in celebrity culture, has secured her supporters. Aside from her renowned son, Elon Musk, she has garnered substantial praise for her attractive appearance and Christmas spirit. However, her visit to China did not go unnoticed by the public, and many netizens promptly shared their views on social media. Maye's appearance was well-received by several, with one commenting that she "looks more Chinese than American," likely due to her grace and poise, which align with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Another commenter made a similarity between Maye Musk and Bollywood star Kriti Sanon. He believed Maye resembled an older Kriti Sanon. Credit: IG Although the reaction was mainly positive, many people saw the irony in the scenario because Musk's son, whose political standing in the United States is nothing short of contentious, has a significant stake in national security concerns. Whatever the case, Maye Musk's reputation and influence have grown as a result of these media appearances. Maye Musk's rise to notoriety in China, as well as Elon Musk's mysterious tweet, demonstrate that the Musk family grabs global attention not only via innovation but also through distinctive cultural exchanges and social media pranks. Also read: Meet Maye Musk: The inspiring story of Elon Musk's extraordinary mother To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Police in Gorakhpur arrested a group of mobile phone thieves who were paid a predetermined salary regardless of their 'success rate.' According to the Times of India, the kingpin and his two associates were detained by the Government Railway Police (GRP) in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday night. The gang leader was identified as Manoj Mandal, a 35-year-old who oversaw the entire operation alongside his partners-in-crime, 19-year-old Karan Kumar and Kumar's 15-year-old sibling, who has not been recognised. Credit: Meta AI Police discovered 44 stolen cell phones in their possession Police discovered 44 stolen cell phones in their possession. The devices are likely to cost over 10 lakh. Along with the phones, authorities discovered a handgun and a knife, which were used to frighten victims. The band of thieves redefined the term "organised crime" with the way they conducted their business. Gorakhpur GRP SP According to Sandeep Kumar Meena, Manoj paid his associates a monthly stipend of 15,000 each. They were also given free food and a travel allowance for out-of-station travels. The gang members specialised in swiping phones from individuals in train terminals and crowded markets. Credit: Meta AI A police official stated that Manoj would hunt for young people in his area of Sahebganj who needed money and had some schooling. He would train these young people for three months. The trainees were then assigned minor targets to rob. Those who met the targets were initiated into the gang and granted a certain pay. When gang members had to travel a long distance for business, they were provided free food and hotel money. The stolen phones were transferred across the border to Nepal and Bangladesh. They were sold for 30-40% of their original price. Many social media users have been impressed and amused by how the group operates. How did people on the internet react? In a hilarious twist that highlights how dissatisfied some employees are with their jobs, several X users joked about how they could apply to join the gang. Here's what people wrote in the comments. Better organised than most of the registered companies. Yaman (@Oye_lambu) December 29, 2024 What about PF and HRA exemption? Free Wheeler (@RoadHound) December 30, 2024 Better HR policies than most companies Mohammad Danish Shaikh(MDS) (@TheDanishShaikh) December 29, 2024 Chotton ki HR department bhi hai MS_Hussain (@MS__Hussain) December 29, 2024 What an enterprising group. All they had to do was switch to legit ways. They have HR practices better than many corporates. If only the promoters had access to quality education, means and ways to run a legitimate entrepreneurship. Ajit (@the_ajitsingh) December 29, 2024 Also read: Amritsar woman bravely fights off thieves at residence in broad daylight, shocking video goes viral To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Fraport Greece, the operator of 14 regional airports across the country, has announced a significant increase in passenger traffic, with over 35 million passengers passing through its airports in the first eleven months of 2024. This represents a 6.4% growth compared to the same period in 2023. November proved to be a particularly strong month, with passenger numbers exceeding 876,000, an 11.6% increase compared to November 2023. This continued growth is attributed to the extension of the tourist season and a surge in international arrivals. Fraport Greece highlighted the strong performance of its regional airports, many of which continued to receive international flights well into November. Athens led domestic passenger traffic, followed by Heraklion, Thessaloniki, Chania, and Rhodes. Germany remained the top international market, with the UK showing a significant increase in passenger share compared to the previous year. Cyprus, Italy, and Austria rounded out the top five international destinations. On the back of these positive results, Fraport Greece announced plans for new investments totaling approximately 150 million. These investments will focus on enhancing capacity at the airports of Santorini, Mykonos, Kos, and Corfu, with upgrades to baggage handling, check-in facilities, and passenger management systems. This continued investment in airport infrastructure underscores Fraport Greece's commitment to providing high-quality services and supporting the growth of the Greek tourism sector. The company's strong performance in 2024 reflects the resilience and potential of Greece's regional airports as key drivers of economic development and connectivity. iefimerida.gr As 2024 draws to a close, Greece finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with evolving economic priorities, shifting geopolitical sentiments, and a renewed focus on democratic values. A comprehensive analysis by Kapa Research reveals a nation undergoing a profound transformation, redefining its identity and charting a new path forward. One of the most striking findings is the dramatic decline in fears about unemployment. Once the dominant concern during the financial crisis, unemployment now worries only 5% of Greeks, a stark contrast to the 83% who saw it as the nation's most pressing issue in 2015. This shift reflects a healing economy, fueled by sustained growth and the return of skilled expatriates. However, new economic anxieties have emerged. While tourism remains vital, Greeks are increasingly prioritizing agriculture and industry, recognizing their resilience in the face of global instability. This reflects a desire for a more diversified and robust economy capable of weathering future crises. Geopolitically, attitudes towards Germany have softened. The lingering resentment over its role in the Greek financial crisis has subsided, with negative sentiments falling to pre-crisis levels. This suggests a maturing perspective on Europe's interconnected challenges and a willingness to move forward. Despite these positive trends, challenges persist. Concerns about the cost of living and inequality remain high, and distrust in political institutions is widespread, as evidenced by record levels of electoral abstention in 2024. However, a strong commitment to democratic values provides a beacon of hope. Greeks, along with other Europeans, overwhelmingly support principles of democracy, rights, and the rule of law, rejecting authoritarian alternatives. As Greece enters a new year, it faces a complex landscape of opportunities and challenges. The nation is redefining its priorities, embracing new economic pathways, and reaffirming its commitment to democratic values. This ongoing transformation will shape Greece's future and its role in the evolving global landscape. iefimerida.gr In an article for Eleftheros Typos published on December 29, Deputy Defense Minister Ioannis Kefalogiannis outlined a transformative vision for the Greek Armed Forces under the strategic initiative "Agenda 2030." The plan aims to adapt Greeces defense capabilities to the demands of a rapidly evolving global environment marked by technological advancements and regional conflicts. The initiative focuses on extensive reforms to enhance interoperability, flexibility, and innovation within the military Kefalogiannis emphasized the importance of leveraging domestic innovation, modernizing academic and military education, and integrating cutting-edge technologies. A significant milestone in this effort is the establishment of the Hellenic Defense Innovation Center (ELKAK), which aligns operational military needs with the countrys industrial capabilities. Further advancements include the launch of doctoral and postgraduate programs in Greek military academies by 2025, targeting key areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. These efforts aim to enrich the capabilities of emerging units like the Joint Information Corps and specialized divisions for data analytics, AI, cyber defense, and space applications. On the procurement front, Greece is moving forward with acquiring state-of-the-art F-35 fighter jets and commissioning four advanced BELHARRA frigates. Additionally, modernization programs for MEKO frigates, Roussen-class missile boats, and submarines are underway. Future participation in European projects, including the Eurocorvette program and the construction of Constellation-class frigates, underscores Greeces commitment to bolstering its naval defenses. The creation of a robust missile defense network in the Aegean also features prominently in the agenda. Recognizing the critical role of personnel, Kefalogiannis highlighted plans to improve living conditions for military staff. By 2030, over 4,000 housing units are expected to be completed to meet relocation needs. Efforts are also being directed at optimizing healthcare services for personnel and their families, alongside enhancing the working conditions of medical staff. "This transformation is only the beginning," Kefalogiannis remarked, underscoring the governments dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of the armed forces. The reforms aim to support the unwavering commitment of Greeces military personnel, ensuring they remain prepared to safeguard national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. Kefalogiannis concluded by reaffirming the government's pledge to equip the armed forces with the tools and support necessary to carry out their mission effectively, fueled by their shared dedication to protecting the nation. iefimerida.gr Between January and December 2024, 929 persons were detained in Kwara for hard drug-related offences, according to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Fatima Popoola, the state commander, said this at a press conference on Monday at the NDLEA headquarters in Ilorin, the state capital. Ms. Popoola stated that the arrests comprised 839 males and 90 females. Advertisement She stated that the command carried out various operations to curb the supply and demand for hard drugs, seizing a total of 2,642,103 kilograms over the review period. The seized drugs include cannabis, tramadol, diazepam, methamphetamine, cough syrup laced with codeine, and cocaine/crack. Cannabis tops the list of seized drugs, amounting to 1,455,529 kilogrammes, so the state is in dire need of intervention to solve the hydra-headed challenges of abuse and trafficking in cannabis. The mop-up of 1.5 tonnes of cannabis is a big saviour to parents and the good people of the state; if not, the destructive effects of the drugs could have been devastating, she said. READ MORE: Ogun Police Rescue Abducted Girl, Arrest Suspects The commander mentioned that 185 individuals using hard drugs were arrested, given brief interventions by the drug demand reduction unit, and subsequently reintegrated with their families. In addition to the intervention efforts, 22 clients were admitted in our rehabilitation facility, with other 17 clients who are non-residential, coming from their homes for counselling. The prosecution and legal service unit secured 133 convictions from the Federal High Court, Ilorin, which involved 123 males and 10 females, while more cases were charged but still pending. Fourteen motor vehicles and 12 motorcycles used by the suspects in drug crimes and monies seized were forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, she said. Ms. Popoola stated that the command, in collaboration with the state government, had launched a drug integrity initiative called the Drug Testing Policy, under which 261 new students at Kwara State University, Malete, were tested. The vice-chancellor and dean of student affairs, and all the fresh students tested proved negative for hard drugs. Many thanks to the university for providing a favourable and suitable climate for the test. Other institutions of higher learning need to emulate such a policy that will help Nigeria achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3: Health and wellbeing for all by 2030, she said. The commander, however, explained that the rehabilitation center, which was meant to house 200 individuals for the treatment and counseling of drug addicts, remained unfinished due to insufficient funds. (NAN) The Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, has apprehended three alleged phone thieves in Ekiti State. Abiodun Adeleye, the Ekiti Amotekun Corps head of communications, issued a statement on Monday indicating that a 19-year-old suspect named Samuel was caught at the Oye Ekiti, Oye Local Government Area headquarters. Mr. Adeleye revealed that the suspect, detained for phone snatching, confessed during interrogation to having two accomplices, who were subsequently arrested by the Amotekun Corps. Advertisement The arresting Amotekun officers at Oye Ekiti stated that the suspect, Samuel, upon interrogation, confessed his involvement in such stealing act. He alleged that he was involved in phone snatching and connived with a syndicate, 20 years old Sanusi Garuba, 20 years old, said Mr Adeleye. READ MORE: Ogun Police Rescue Abducted Girl, Arrest Suspects According to Amotekuns statement, Mr Samuel claimed that one of the accomplices, known as Tosin, introduced him to the illicit operation. The principal suspect and the two others have been handed over to the Divisional Police Headquarters in Oye Ekiti for necessary action and further interrogation, the Amotekun spokesperson added. Mr. Adeleye stated that the Amotekun command, led by Corps Commander Olu Adewa, remains dedicated to eradicating criminal activities in the state. The Arewa Consultative Forum has condemned the militarys airstrike on Silame community in Sokoto State, which claimed 10 lives and left several others injured. The forum also called for a probe into the attack and equal compensation for affected families. Disclosing this to public in a statement on Monday, ACF National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, described the attack, which occurred on the 24th of December, 2024, as one mistake too many. Advertisement The group also expressed concern over the militarys response to the attack, particularly the statement by a spokesman that the attack was on a planned target. The statement reads: We are deeply troubled and saddened by the Silame incident, as one far too many in the country. READ MORE: PDP Mourns Victims Of Sokoto Airstrike, Demands Probe, Calls For Govts Medical Support This was not an isolated incident, as the memories of similar attacks on Tudun Biri community, Kaduna State, about a year ago, and earlier in Adamawa and Nasarawa states, with their gruesome statistics of casualties, remain fresh in memory. The bland response of a spokesperson of the military insisting that the attack was on a planned target was most insensitive. We call on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Military High Command to conduct thorough investigations into the Silame incidents with results made public and assurances that concrete steps, as opposed to the usual bland assurances or lip service, will be taken to avert such tragic incidents. We insist that compensation be paid for those who suffered death and injuries in line with Islamic legal principles and injunctions in the community. A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions (EFCC) request to freeze 24 bank accounts suspected of terrorism financing. Presiding Judge Emeka Nwite, on Monday, approved the ex parte application filed by the EFCC. According to EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, some of the accounts belong to Lawrence Lucky Eromosele, who is being investigated for kidnapping. Advertisement The accounts are being probed for money laundering and terrorism financing, allegedly linked to cryptocurrency platforms and laundering of funds from unlawful activities. The EFCC also sought to protect the funds in the accounts pending the conclusion of the investigation. READ ALSO: Liar At 80 Years Cant Be Entrusted With Leadership Kwankwaso Criticizes Atikus Ambition In an affidavit, EFCC investigator, Mohammed Khalil stated that the National Security Adviser (NSA) had directed a team to investigate a syndicate threatening the lives of senior operatives. The syndicate allegedly demanded ransom payments and provided personal details of the operatives family members. Khalil said the team had identified bank accounts linked to the individuals making the threats. Further intelligence has revealed that proceeds of crimes and funds for terrorist activities are covertly exchanged through these platforms, he stated. The court adjourned the matter to March 24, 2025, for further mention. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has sounded a warning that Nigerias continued reliance on oil will lead to increased poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Abbas made this declaration on Monday at the 14th convocation lecture of the Al-Hikmah University in Ilorin, stressing that Nigeria must diversify its economy to secure its economic future. According to Abbas, the country must move beyond oil and develop sustainable pathways for inclusive growth. Advertisement With dwindling oil revenues, global shifts toward renewable energy, and the increasing need for job-creation, it is imperative that we chart a new course for economic transformation, he said. Abbas emphasized that this transformation requires deliberate efforts to unlock the potential of other sectors, such as agriculture, solid minerals, technology, and the creative industries. READ ALSO: SERAP Urges Akpabio, Abbas to Cut Presidency, NASS Budgets He cited Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates as examples of countries that have successfully diversified their economies. The Speaker also underscored the importance of collective responsibility in achieving economic transformation. He noted that the government must lead with visionary policies, transparent governance, and strategic investments in infrastructure and education. The legislature, academia, and private sector, he noted, also have vital roles to play in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has commended President Bola Tinubus administration over the restoration of long time abandoned refinery in Warri, Delta State. Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA had reported that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, announced 60% operation of the refinery on Monday. NNPCLs boss, Mele Kyari, stated that the refinery will be producing 125,000 barrels per day. Advertisement Reacting to the development in a statement on Tuesday, by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, noted that the restoration of the Warri Refinery, marks a turnaround in the nations petroleum sector and a new year gift to Nigerians. He hailed President Tinubu for his reform in the sector, which he said that it has started yielding positive results for the advancement of the economy and called on Nigerians to support him. READ MORE: Tinubu Hails NNPCL Over Re-Opening Of Warri Refinery, Reaffirms Commitments To Boost Local Economy The statement reads: With the Warri, Port Harcourt and Dangote refineries working simultaneously, there is hope that the petroleum sector is taking a new turn. I want to join other numerous Nigerians to congratulate President Tinubu and the NNPCL under Mele Kyari for successfully reviving the Warri Refinery. For me, this is certainly a New Year gift to Nigerians. Edo State will continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government to restore our national pride and make Nigeria a hub for crude oil refining in Africa. Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, has arrested a man, identified as Obinna Nwigwe, for allegedly shooting his friend, Andrew Philemon, during a heated argument. I was gathered that the incident happened at Najob Guest House in Bwari, on the 26th of December, 2024. Disclosing this in a statement on Tuesday, the commands Spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said that police officers responded to a distress call about gunfire. Advertisement She added that upon arriving at the scene, they found 29-year-old Philemon critically injured from a gunshot wound. The statement disclosed that the 33 years old suspect, was armed with a pump-action rifle, claimed the shooting was in self-defence after the argument escalated. Josephine said: On December 26, 2024, police officers responded to a distress call from Najob Guest House in Bwari, where gunfire had been reported. Upon arrival, they discovered 29-year-old Andrew Philemon bleeding from critical injuries after being shot by 33-year-old Obinna Nwigwe. Nwigwe claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense following a heated argument. At the time of the incident, he was armed with a pump-action rifle. A thorough search of Nwigwes residence yielded an alarming array of weapons, including: Five Dane guns, One English-made single barrel, An AK47 magazine containing 29 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition, Four live cartridg, Seventeen expanded cartridges, A bow with arrows, Various knives, a sword stick, and a toy gun. Andrew Philemon is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital, while Obinna Nwigwe is expected to face charges once the investigation concludes. A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has come out in defense of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying he laid a solid foundation for President Bola Tinubu to build on. Igbokwe made this statement via his Facebook page on Monday, urging Nigerians to disregard claims that Buharis administration was a failure. Let nobody living or dead run away with the thinking that PMB is a failure. Perish the thought. Advertisement READ ALSO: Find Out Why Nigerias Refineries Are Not Working Joe Igbokwe To Tinubu He laid the solid foundation for PBAT to build on. We are seeing the footprints and the gains, Igbokwe posted. Igbokwes comments come on the heels of criticism from former presidential Special Adviser on Political Matters, Babafemi Ojudu, who described Buhari as not a visionary. Ojudu attributed Buharis lack of vision to his decision not to support former Vice President Yemi Osinbajos presidential bid. Despite this, Ojudu praised Buhari as a patriot and an incorruptible leader. Renowned actor Femi Branch has criticised some cinema owners in Nigeria, accusing them of favouring certain films over others. In an Instagram post on Monday, the 54-year-old filmmaker alleged that certain cinema employees wear promotional merchandise for specific films rather than staying impartial. He further alleged that some cinemas take down the media cards of certain films from their counters while actively promoting others. Advertisement The actor also stated that such practices create division among filmmakers and hurt the countrys economy. READ MORE: Only God Can Cancel Me Naira Marley To Critics He was also concerned about the impact on producers who are trying to recoup their investments as a result of unfair screen time allocation. I do not see anybody talking about it in the industry. I know people know what is going on. I am talking about cinemas promoting one movie above the other. It is so bad that some cinema staff wear T-shirts for one film. They remove the media cards of some movies from their counters and put others out there, he said. In some cinemas, they tell people, This is the best film to watch. In some cinemas, they change somebody elses time for another person. As you know, you are supposed to screen your movie at a particular time, but you go there, and they are now telling you to watch another better film. It is not the business of the cinema to tell what film to watch or not. We have been having a lot of problems at the cinemas recently. Especially, this December. We have heard of different fights at different cinemas. This industry is constantly under one bondage or the other. We are divided already. Cinemas want to add to it. Many producers are groaning now that the money they invested is not returning. Some of us who are working on projects to go out into cinemas are afraid because we do not know whats going on. When they give you screen time and see that another film has become popular, they will then give your screen time to other people. Some will even time that is not good. You are not helping our industry, you are not helping the economy, and you are not assisting actors, too. Cinemas are supposed to be neutral. SEE BELOW: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DENW64fotmr/?igsh=MWYyaThkajhhbjQ3eg== The Federal Ministry of Justice has proposed a significant budget for the upcoming year, with a focus on fuel and vehicle procurement. According to the 2025 Appropriation Bill, the Ministry allocated 460 million for the procurement of utility vehicles, as well as their maintenance and fueling. Advertisement A breakdown of the budget reveals that 350 million is earmarked for the purchase of utility vehicles, 110 million for fueling, and 45 million for maintenance. Additionally, the Ministry plans to allocate 700 million for local travel related to training and other purposes, while 800 million is intended for international travel. READ ALSO: Finance Ministry Tops 2025 Budget Allocations As Over N1trn Goes To 10 Ministries Each This proposal is exclusive to the headquarters and does not include additional costs proposed by the six agencies under the Ministrys supervision. The agencies include the Nigerian Law Reform Commission, Legal Aid Council, and National Human Rights Commission, among others. In related news, the House of Representatives is considering a proposal to separate the roles of the Attorney General of the Federation from those of the Minister of Justice. f approved, this change would also apply to the offices of the Attorney General at the state level. Rabiu Kwankwaso, National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has launched a scathing attack on Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Partys (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate. Kwankwaso accused Atiku of lying to Northern clerics and political leaders about reaching an agreement on the presidency. In an interview with the Hausa Service of Radio France International, Kwankwaso expressed his deep anger over the information. Advertisement Elderly people aged 70 to 80 years will sit and lie, telling clerics and other leaders something that never happened, he said. READ ALSO: Warri Refinery Now Operating At 60% Capacity NNPC Chair Kyari Kwankwaso emphasized that he is still alive and healthy, and it is impossible for such a meeting to occur without his knowledge. His statement further highlights his concern about the integrity of leaders. This is not good for a personality to lie. In such incident, if a government is formed on the basis of lies, its like starting a foundation on a weak structure, Kwankwaso added. He further questioned the trustworthiness of leaders who lie, saying, With these lies, we cant believe such people that they can only serve one term in office if you entrust them with leadership. A Kano State lawmaker, Mustapha Ghali, has revealed that he was approached by a fellow lawmaker from the South to support President Bola Tinubus Tax Reform Bills, with the assurance that Kano State would benefit alongside Lagos. However, Ghali rejected the offer, stating that he doesnt want a bill that would only benefit his own State and leave out others, including neighboring states. Ghali alleged in a chat with newsmen in Kano that those sponsoring the bills have ulterior motives, and that the focus of the bills should be in the interest of entire Nigeria, not just some regions or states. Advertisement There was an influential member from the South that met me and said, Dr Ghali you are privileged to have the wherewithal to stand and speak and you usually get the support of your fellow members. We have come to strike a deal with you today. We want you to support these tax reform bills. He told me that their reason was that when it is passed, Kano will also benefit alongside Lagos. If Kano benefitted you will also benefit. I said to him he is right, but I want Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara Sokoto, Kebbi also to benefit. My reason was if today I have a problem in Kano, before you come to my rescue from Lagos, I have called one from Jigawa, I have called someone from Katsina, Kaduna and Niger. So, even if Kano will benefit, what of my neighbours, those that I have always been at peace with? This indicates that these people have an ulterior motive. The good thing is all northern legislators have all sat and are working towards containing the issue. We all have our own priorities from our people that we are representing. Your interest should not be conflicting or against the other region. This is why we are telling people to stop fighting for political differences but for the success of our region, he said. READ ALSO: Reverse Tax Reforms Or North Will Fight, Show You Our True Colours Gov Mohammed Threatens Tinubu He emphasized that Nigeria is not ripe for such bills and called on the federal government to provide a conducive environment for citizens instead. The lawmaker also stressed that the Northern region must unite and speak with one voice to stop the implementation of the bills. He noted that countries that have implemented similar bills had first provided a conducive environment and development, such as employment, hospitals, schools, and other social amenities for the populace, which is not the case in Nigeria. Ghali appealed to northern lawmakers, governors, elders, business leaders, and academicians to work together to ensure that the bill is set aside. So what we are saying is Nigeria is not yet ripe for the implementation of the proposed bill. It is not like we totally rejected it but the government has to provide the development and conducive environment before implementing the tax reform bill. I however appeal to northern lawmakers, governors, elders, business men and women, academicians and all relevant stakeholders to put heads together to ensure that the bill is set aside, he said. His stance is supported by other lawmakers from Kano State, who have also rejected the Tax Reform Bills. The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for bringing Nigeria economy back from dying condition. The former governor of Akwa Ibom State on Monday, said that the country was on a life support when President Tinubu took over the leadership of the country, from his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, in May 2023. Speaking at his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme held at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akpabio, representing Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District, begged Nigerians to Tinubus efforts in facing the nations economic challenges. Advertisement The Senate President expressed optimism about ongoing economic reforms, noting that while they may be painful, they are necessary for sustainable growth. He said: Nigeria was on life support when Asiwaju Bola Tinubu took over. I once asked him, Are you excited about being president after seeing the economy left behind by Emefiele? RED MORE: Akpabio Hails Tinubu Over Rapid Development In Abuja Now Looking Like London He replied, I must tell you, I didnt know it was this bad. You did it in Lagos, and you will do it again for Nigeria. Its just a matter of time. We are praying for you, and God will grant you the wisdom to lead us to El Dorado. We have enough foodstuff to distribute; there should be no stampede. These items are being extended beyond Ikot Ekpene to other senatorial districts in the state. Your support has not only enhanced our educational experience but also inspired us to strive for excellence. Thank you for your unwavering support. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns over the increasing number of Nigerian lecturers relocating abroad in search of better opportunities. According to ASUU National President, Emmanuel Osodeke, this trend poses a significant threat to the quality of education in Nigerian universities. Lecturers are finding it difficult to make ends meet. Many are struggling just to stay afloat. Additionally, the government still owes us three and a half months of arrears and a full year of wage awards. Advertisement Many of our colleagues are leaving the country in search of better opportunities, and if this trend continues, Nigerian universities will be left with an alarming shortage of qualified lecturers, Osodeke said in an interview with Punch. READ ALSO: Tax Reform Bill Threatens Tertiary Education ASUU Claims Osodeke also criticized the government for establishing new universities without addressing the critical issue of staffing. Only a few qualified lecturers are teaching in our institutions, and if nothing is done to address this, Nigeria may soon be left with a severely underqualified teaching workforce, he warned. Furthermore, Osodeke highlighted the challenges faced by university professors, citing low salaries and rising living expenses. Funding has always been a challenge for university professors. Its difficult for a professor to survive on just N450,000 a month, especially when they are spending over N200,000 on fuel alone due to the recent hikes in fuel prices, he said. The ASUU Presidents concerns are echoed by various universities across the country, which are struggling with severe shortages of academic staff. Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have apprehended two suspects, identified as Sadiq Adebayo and Abdullahi Sulaimon, for alleged theft. In a statement on Tuesday, by the Commands Spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, disclosed that officers from Idanyin Division, arrested Adebayo for allegedly stealing burglary proofs from an uncompleted building in the Imutu Ayanre community. She noted that chairman of the community, Mr. Yekinni Wasiu, reported the incident to the police on December 29, 2024. Advertisement READ MORE: Ogun Police Rescue Abducted Girl, Arrest Suspects Odutola added that Adebayo was caught in the act of dismantling the burglary proof of a neighbours uncompleted building. During interrogation, Adebayo confessed that he had stolen similar items on multiple occasions, selling them to one Abdullahi Sulaimon, a scrap dealer. She said: Following the report, our detectives visited the crime scene, took photographs, and recovered some of the stolen burglary proofs. The receiver, Abdullahi Sulaimon, was also arrested and is under investigation. No fewer than seven persons, including two police officers, innocent villagers, were killed by some yet to be identified assailants in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State. It was gathered that the horrible incident happened on Monday, when some individuals, suspected to be hoodlums, invaded a venue, where preparation for a burial ceremony was on going. Eyewitness, who refused to reveal his identity, said that the gunmen started shooting sporadically, leading to the death of the victims. Advertisement The source said: Members of a family were making arrangements about the burial ceremony of their loved one, which was scheduled to be held on January 2, 2025. But as the preparations were going on, gunmen suddenly invaded the place and started shooting sporadically, and this led to a hot exchange of gunfire between them and some security operatives in the area. The hoodlums fired at some police officers at a security post near the Ihiala LGA, and in the process, some people passing by and some security officers were gunned down. Confirming the incident on Monday, in a statement, Spokesman of Anambra State Police Command, Tochukwu Ikenga. READ MORE: Anambra: Constant Killing Of Nigerians By Unknown Assailants Is Heartbreaking Peter Obi The Anambra State Police Command Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an immediate manhunt on the fleeing assailants. He said: The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an immediate manhunt of the assailants who attacked security operatives and unarmed civilians in Ihiala by 11.20 am today, December 30, 2024. The unfortunate attack resulted in the death of seven persons, among which are two unarmed passers-by. The Joint Security Team rescued one of the victims who is currently responding to treatment in a hospital. The CP, while on an on-the-spot assessment visit to the scene, interviewed some eyewitnesses about the incident. Information also had it that the armed men started shooting sporadically at a venue where preparations are ongoing for a burial ceremony slated for 2nd of January 2025. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu was unaware of the countrys economic situation before assuming office. Akpabio made this revelation on Tuesday at his 2024 constituency briefing and empowerment programme in Ikot Ekpene township stadium. According to Akpabio, Nigeria was on life support when Asiwaju Bola Tinubu took over. Advertisement He recounted a conversation with President Tinubu, saying, I once asked President Tinubu, are you excited about being president after seeing the economy left behind by (Godwin) Emefiele? He replied, I must tell you, I didnt know it was this bad.' READ ALSO: Akpabio Hails Tinubu Over Rapid Development In Abuja Now Looking Like London Akpabio expressed optimism about ongoing reforms and asked Nigerians to support Tinubus efforts to improve the economy. You did it in Lagos, and you will do it again for Nigeria. Its just a matter of time. We are praying for you, and God will grant you the wisdom to lead us to El Dorado, he said. The Senate President also commended Umo Eno, the Akwa-Ibom State Governor, for promoting peace and inclusivity in the state. Without peace, there cannot be development. The governor has embraced all Akwa Ibom people, regardless of political affiliations, Akpabio added. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerians not to lose hope despite the current economic hardship, expressing his confidence that the country will overcome its challenges. In an interview on Arise Television on Monday, Obasanjo described himself as an incurable optimist about Nigerias future. We wish all Nigerians a happy and prosperous new year, and I will say to Nigerians, were going through hardship, but they should never lose hope. Advertisement Im an incurable optimist about Nigeria, and we have a great country. Where we are is not where God wants us to be, and I believe that sooner than later we will get to where God wants us to be, Obasanjo said. Obasanjo emphasized that Nigerias current struggles are not a reflection of its potential, saying God wants Nigeria to be a land flowing with milk and honey, not a desert, a basket case, or a failed country. READ ALSO: 2027: Lukman Writes Obasanjo, Urges Ex-Leaders To Unite Against Tinubus Re-Election The former President also stressed the importance of leadership, noting that true leadership extends beyond the corridors of power. He urged current and former leaders to continue serving their countries and the world after leaving office. Additionally, Obasanjo addressed United States President-elect Donald Trumps previous remarks about Africa, saying We have to find a way of letting Trump know that what he calls a shithole is not it, and we have to make him understand that. Obasanjo emphasized the need for Africa to assert its value in the global arena, saying America has an enlightened interest in Africa, and we must tell him, This is your interest, and dont ignore it. Were ready to work with you; give us the respect and dignity that is due to us, respect our citizens who are in your country, and let us work together for a peaceful world'. Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has berated controversial socio-political analyst, Reno Omokri amid backlash between him and supporters of President Bola Tinubu. INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that the controversy began over the weekend, when El-rufai shared an article by a columnist, Farooq Kperogi, accusing Tinubu of recruiting his tribesmen into the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. The article, titled: Tinubus Buharisation of the NNPC, Kperogi described as embarrassing the presidents relentless Yorubacentric take-over of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, NNPC, as the Northerners did under the immediate past administration Muhammadu Buhari. Advertisement Reacting to the write up, El-Rufai, via his X page, said: DECEMBER MESSAGE: Two wrongs do not make a right. Sensible inclusion always trumps arrogant exclusion. READ MORE: #EndBadGovernance: Omokri Slams Hungry Protester For Having Empty Pot While Holding Alcoholic Bitters His reaction, however, attracted backlash from the presidency and supporters of President Tinubu including Reno Omokri. Omokri in a series of posts on his Facebook page, berated El-Rufai over the remark on Tinubu. He said: Just imagine, Nasir El-Rufai, a man who publicly admitted to using government money to pay killer herdsmen, is today complaining that the Tinubu administration is using government money to build a railway in Lagos. Maybe he would have preferred if the money was used to pay Boko Haram. Responding to Omokris comment, El-Rufai who shared old posts of Reno campaigning against a drug baron in Aso Rock, wrote, NIGERIA UPDATE , The interesting lifecycle of Wendell Simlin, also sometimes retained as a political mercenary by any person or government that can pay. Happy New Years Eve from the Will Bunch Newsletter, which is marking the end of a momentous and possibly calamitous 2024 by not reviewing the last grim 12 months but simply plowing ahead with new topics. I do have big plans for 2025, both personally and in the newsletter and my regular columns, where I hope to focus on some big picture topics like the disturbing, unchecked rise of AI and (not unrelatedly) the war on knowledge, especially reading and writing as well as resisting American dictatorship. I hope youll stay with me for another wild ride. If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. Will the American Experiment survive the mistake of Merrick Garland, our worst AG? Justice too long delayed is justice denied... the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Letter from Birmingham Jail, 1963 Advertisement It would have been the worst that could happen for America. But it arguably also would have been a fitting tribute to a disastrous four years as the nations chief law enforcement officer if Merrick Garland had been succeeded as attorney general by an accused teen-lusting sex fiend and drug user that his Justice Department had declined to prosecute. Thankfully for the United States as a whole, former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz subject of a hugely damning House Ethics Committee report accusing him of paying a 17-year-old girl for sex after he was cleared by Team Garlands probe into the matter ended his bid to succeed Garland in the incoming Trump 47 administration. That small victory wont be nearly enough to salvage the legacy of a 72-year-old icon of old-fashioned jurisprudence who wont only be remembered by the history books at least the ones that havent been burned by his successors as President Joe Bidens worst cabinet pick or even his biggest mistake, period, but as someone whose fecklessness and failure to meet the moment may prove the spark that blew up the American Experiment. True, the world will never know how things would have played out if Garland had named a pit bull like the eventual Trump special prosecutor Jack Smith to immediately begin the work of pursuing high-level justice for the attempted coup that culminated in the violent insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. Perhaps the elite-hating, change-seeking U.S. electorate would have elected Trump from his cell at Leavenworth. Id pretty much believe anything at this point, nearly a decade after Trump descended that Trump Tower escalator. But Garland, in dithering like a deer in the F-150 headlights of the American Taliban for 20 months on even investigating Trumps Jan. 6 involvement until that House select committee laid out his case, seemed to misunderstand something fundamental about the American Experiment. That a democracy capable of embracing a demagogue isnt truly free without the companion of justice. And the justice too long delayed by Garland and his failures was a terminal case of justice denied. But dont believe me. Listen to the man who misread the room four years ago and tapped Garland for the job. The Washington Post reported this weekend the lame-duck, one-term president complaining about the Justice Departments slowness under Garland in prosecuting Trump even as his team pressed forward in a questionable case against the presidential son, Hunter Biden. This now-he-tells-us nugget is planted smack in the middle of a revealing piece about how badly Biden and, more broadly, the Democratic Party misread the American zeitgeist of the 2020s, thinking that voters wanted a quietly competent government and not a leader who looked and talked like a loose cannon of radical change. And yet delusional thinking still persists at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue where Biden himself and perhaps some of his inner circle still think the 82-year-old incumbent could have beaten Trump if he stayed in the race utterly contrary to all known evidence. That said, the Post article is largely sympathetic toward the outgoing president and his top aides in describing how his 2020 COVID-year victory over Trump fueled a mistaken belief that Americans wanted a return to a traditional democracy that reeked of institutional authority and the status quo missing the undercurrent of deep distrust that would sweep POTUS 45 back into office. In that context, Exhibit A of Team Bidens magical thinking was its decision to pick Garland a milquetoast ex-prosecutor-turned-judge whose brand was fairness and middle-of-the-road moderation over runner-up Doug Jones, the former Alabama senator with both shrewder political instincts and a reputation for courage in prosecuting the last KKK bombers who killed four Black girls in a Birmingham church in 1963. The Post said the faction led by then-Biden incoming chief of staff Ron Klain won the argument that a Garland pick would show Americans that Biden was rebuilding a department badly shaken by Trumps political attacks. The truth is that any federal effort to prosecute Trump for his role in fomenting the mayhem of Jan. 6, 2021 whether it had been launched in the March 2021 echoes of the insurrection, or when it actually did start in November 2022 was going to be attacked as an arrest-the-election loser politization of justice. The problem is that conspiring to stop the peaceful transfer of presidential power through threats to Georgia election officials or Justice Department lawyers before finally summoning the mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol is actually criminal, as a grand jury would eventually find when the case went before them. In those first heady days after Biden actually took office, a craven Garland clearly hoped to burnish his reputation for nonpartisan, down-the-middle fairness by assuming that the twice-impeached, election-losing Trump would fade into political oblivion. He wasnt alone in that wildly wrongheaded calculation, as other cowards like then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell who declined to vote or sway others to convict Trump in his post-Jan. 6 impeachment made the same terrible bet. A year and a half later, after the House Jan. 6 probers laid out the evidence that Team Garland had ignored, and after top secret documents turned up at Mar-a-Lago, the naming of Smith as special counsel was long overdue too long, it turned out. You probably know the rest of the story, as Trumps relentless deny-and-delay tactics learned as an apprentice to hardball lawyer Roy Cohn gummed up the cases and bought time for a Supreme Court with three Trump-appointed justices to rule that a president has king-like power to avoid criminal prosecution for official acts. The clock has run out on Smith as Trump prepares to return to the White House. On Monday, the special counsels office moved to hand its appeal of a Trump-appointed federal judges dismissal of the Mar-a-Lago charges against the president-elect and ongoing charges against two aides to federal prosecutors in Florida, wholl soon be under a new AG, presumably Trump pick Pam Bondi. This on the heels of his dismissal his dismissal motion in the Jan. 6 case. The Justice Department has a long-standing if hard to justify policy of not prosecuting a sitting president. In a nation of nearly 335 million people that finds it pretty easy to throw other folks behind bars, one man now sits above the law, with an own-goal assist from Garland. Americas Founders didnt want this. They also wanted a democracy of leaders chosen by the citizenry, but not a scenario where the people could elect a demagogue who could ignore the law or take away fundamental rights, especially the right to have your vote counted. The notion of justice-for-all is one of those checks and balances they buried in the tubing of the American Experiment to keep it from overheating. Biden has every right to be bitter that Garlands noble-sounding mantra of fairness allowed, in reality, for Trump to freely run against him while his son was convicted of a stand-alone gun crime not typically prosecuted. But in the end, Garland was just the leading edge of a cadre of Congress members, elite newsroom editors and publishers, and others who believed that the magic of democracy could fix everything without having to take a stand. He will be remembered as the worst Neville Chamberlain-level of appeaser in a nation that turned out to be chock full of them. Yo, do this! I believe Ive mentioned that part of my post-election, doing-the-small-stuff self-improvement kick is my determination to listen to more new music, as opposed to hearing Tommy James and the Shondells Crimson and Clover for the 837th time. Mission accomplished in the 2024-Top-10-list fueled belated discovery of MJ Lenderman, a North Carolinian whose witty sad-sack tales combine biting lyrics with a guitar-based alt-country sound thats a kind of Dylan goes electric (or Neil Young, whom hes oft compared to) for the 21st century, which is very much what the 21st century needs. Check out his 2024 release, Manning Fireworks. Another key element of my plan for surviving 2025 is simply...more caffeine. Thats why I was thrilled to see 2024 wind down with arguably the best news of a tortured year, in the return of an iconic 1980s product. Jolt Cola. In fact, CNN reports that the new incarnation of the prehistoric energy drink that I loved to gulp some 35 years ago (before that I knew what adult ADD was, or that I majorly had it) has even more buzz than the original. I cannot wait to find a 16-ounce can. Ask me anything Question: What bad scenario in the next 4 years do you see spinning out of control, due to unqualified Trump lackeys being put in place and they dont have any idea what to do? Sarah Huckabee Blutarsky (@shuckabeeblutarsky.bsky.social) via Bluesky. Answer: Sarah, I hate to be Captain Obvious on this one but while Im not normally a big public-health guy I am terrified over how the new Trump administration will handle any major risk of an epidemic, let alone a global COVID-19-variety pandemic, in the coming four years. With the strong likelihood of anti-vaxx loose cannon Robert Kennedy Jr. at the helm at Health and Human Services, working with a web of contrarian scientists, its easy to imagine the federal government essentially doing nothing as the next dangerous infectious disease festers. On Monday, I made the mistake of checking in over at Elon Musks X/Twitter, which was awash in vows not to comply with any governmental action over growing bird flu concerns. Its going to be critical for sensible state and local officials to protect us, because RFK Jr.s Washington clearly wont. What youre saying about... Last week I asked if Elon Musk and his growing influence on American politics is a major threat to our stability, or a ticking time bomb that might helpfully undermine any MAGA efforts to remake the nation. Most agreed that hes a quite serious problem, although frequent contributor Daniel Hoffman noted whether the plutocrats were John D. Rockefeller, Henry Ford, J.P Morgan or others, American politicians have always been for sale and the influence of the rich has always been pernicious. Reader Thomas Desmond had the best practical advice to stop buying Musks Teslas and stop posting on his X/Twitter, because we give him less power by not supporting the platform that he is using to push his far-right viewpoints. This weeks question: I wont go all-out tacky and ask for your New Years resolutions but I am curious what readers plan to do thats new or different in 2025. Please email me your answer and put Different in 2025 in the subject line. History lesson on Jimmy Carter and my worst vote Jimmy Carter, whose remarkable 100-year life touched on everything from the death of the guinea worm to the birth of craft beer, always had an exquisite sense of timing. The death on Sunday of Americas longest-living POTUS instantly triggered the launch of 1,000 opinion essays, not just because of any nostalgia for his post-Watergate 39th presidency but because his life of moral imperative cuts such an obvious contrast with the corrupt narcissism of the man wholl become the 47th U.S. president just a mere 11 days after Carters Jan. 9 state funeral. Indeed, as I type this just 36 hours after Carters passing in his home state of Georgia was announced, its hard to know what to add to this conversation. I do want to recommend a couple of excellent essays by the New York Times' Ron Lieber and writer Craig Calcaterra that both addressed Carters famed 1979 crisis of confidence speech (also dubbed, unfairly, the malaise speech). They wrote about how it both showed the Georgians keen understanding of a deep, moral rot of empty consumerism that threatened America, but also a cluelessness that voters were eager instead for the see-no-evil optimistic bravado of a Ronald Reagan. The comparison between how Carter misread the national mood and the ways that Joe Biden would repeat that, more than 40 years later, is revealing. Even though his perceptive yet politically ineffective years in the White House seemed to come and go in a flash, Carter managed to teach me, and us, some things about life, perhaps unintentionally. He was running for reelection the first time I voted in a presidential contest, in 1980 when I was 21, and yet this child of Watergate refused to pull the trigger and vote for him. Born too late to protest the Vietnam War, my stubborn college self desperately wanted to protest something. So I blamed Carters late-presidency right swerve a hike in Pentagon spending and the return of draft registration as an excuse to cast a protest vote, for a liberal Republican (yes, that was a thing) named John Anderson on a third-party ballot. That was stupid. It took eight years of seeing what a real conservative in Reagan could do to America to change me into what I hope Ive become, a progressive writer who can be pragmatic when thats whats called for. But the biggest lesson from Carters incredible narrative arc is that one that all Americas ought to heed in this dark hour for democracy: He never gave up. Booted from the White House at age 56, it would have been so easy for him to cash out on a few corporate boards and go fishing on an early retirement. Instead, he spent 44 years finding new ways to fight for the human rights he believed in, ultimately winning a Nobel Peace Prize less for what hed done in the presidency than for what hed done after losing it. In many ways, the 74 million of us who just voted to stop Trumps assault on democracy and failed on Nov. 5 are facing our own Jimmy Carter moment. Lets follow his example and make the most of it. What I wrote on this date in 2017 Unlike normal folks, Ive worked a lot on New Years Eve over the years. In 2017, or nearly one year into what we can now call the last Trump presidency, I wrote about Trump 45s year-end interview with the New York Times, and its fascinating/alarming to see all the foreshadowing of Trump 47, including an assertion that the president can use the Justice Department to his own ends. This struck me from seven long years ago! The flip side of the wide-open and unchallenged interview style was that Trumps rambling answers, his rapid topic-jumping and his seeming disconnection from the realities of health care reform, the Russia probe, and other critical issues had some well-regarded political analysts openly questioning whether the president is suffering from dementia or some other impairment. Read the rest: The one half-true thing Trump said in Times interview was scarier than his two dozen lies. Recommended Inquirer reading There is no true Christmas break in Trumps America, so while you were on the post-holiday returns line I was cranking out an essay on how the MAGA movements war on reality epitomized by Elon Musks broadsides against the truth-seeking internet information resource Wikipedia as well as the killing of yet another federal anti-disinformation program is grinding dangerously forward. The coming fight to preserve U.S. democracy will hinge heavily on whether we can save fact-based news and political discourse. God, in His infinite wisdom, understood that newsrooms needed some way to publish and not perish during the endless holiday season, which is why He created the year-end list. I guess Im biased but one that I enjoyed was this one from my own Inquirer Opinion crew of our most read and discussed columns and guest essays of 2024. It was nice to make a token appearance but what really struck me was the passioned opinions from everyday Philadelphians about how to make this a better place, from bike safety to the downsides of the citys sports-arena wars to understanding crime in North Philly. New Years Day the most boring holiday ever created is a perfect day to hurdle the paywall and both join and economically support the coming conversation in 2025. Why not jump-start the new year with a subscription to The Inquirer? By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10. "Abbott Elementary" episode "Volunteers" is a crossover with "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," airing on Wednesday, Jan. 8, on ABC. "Sunny" character Charlie (Charlie Day) is pictured in a classroom at Abbott. (Disney/Gilles Mingasson) Read more The biggest moment in Philly television arrives early in the new year with a crossover episode of Abbott Elementary and Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia airing on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Fans are eagerly speculating about what high jinks will unravel as the gang from Sunny Charlie (Charlie Day), Mac (Rob McElhenney), Dennis (Glenn Howerton), Dee (Kaitlin Olson), and Frank (Danny DeVito) visits the beloved West Philly elementary school. They will serve as volunteers sent by the school district, though its surprising that the hilariously unruly adults would even be allowed on school property at all. Advertisement A new teaser provides a few insights into the upcoming chaos, from flirting to property damage. Welcome to Abbott Elementary, the best elementary school in the universe, says the always-peppy Janine (played by showrunner Quinta Brunson). Oh, is that what this is? replies Dee, prompting some worried looks. Mac, wearing a Fairmount Park T-shirt, also seems to make a pass at principal Ava (Janelle James): Let me know if theres anything you need and I mean, anything. Unsurprisingly, not everyone gets along. The mysterious and unpredictable Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis) calls out Frank in one moment, telling him, Youre trash, you know that? Coming from the sheriff of trash! Frank retorts. Photographs from the episode also hint at Dee potentially messing (or also flirting?) with Gregory (Tyler James Williams) and Charlie talking to Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph), which might have to do with addressing Charlies literacy problems. The crossover idea came from Brunson and McElhenney, who saw the potential for a great, if unexpected, combination of the two massively popular comedies set in their hometown. Im just so pumped, Brunson said of the collaboration in an October interview with Good Morning America. We started talking and said, Why dont we do this one day? It has been the most fantastic experience working with them, not only in the writers room, but on set. We just had a ball with them. Its gonna work better than people expect. The shows have two very different tones. But it works, she continued. I think its because of Philadelphia. Philadelphia is this richly diverse, dirty, horrible city sometimes. And we can share all of our dirt with each other. I think thats what you are gonna get in that episode. Sorry, Philly. There is probably a nicer way to say that. The Abbott Elementary and Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia crossover episode will air on ABC on Wednesday, Jan. 8, and will be available to stream on Hulu on Jan. 10. Sanitation workers clean up trash during the relocation of people with addiction who had been living in a street encampment on Kensington Avenue in Philadelphia in May 2024. Harm reduction advocates say that they feel City Hall has attempted on several occasions this year to curtail their work with people in addiction, including during May's encampment clearing. Read more Over the last year in Kensington, at the epicenter of Philadelphias opioid crisis, elected officials cut funding for a syringe exchange, urged a landlord to stop renting space to a harm-reduction program, and advocated for restrictions on how and where medical providers operate. Amid intense debate during a new mayors first term, Kensington politicians have argued that some neighborhood programs for people with addiction are not good neighbors and place undue burdens on the areas permanent residents. Advertisement But others providing services to people in addiction see a concerted effort to curtail their work, and they say City Halls approach will only worsen the crisis and further harm the neighborhood. Prevention Point, the Kensington-based public health organization, is particularly in the crosshairs of the new restrictions. This summer, it lost about $1 million in city funding to provide sterile syringes. Recently, the city zoning board ruled that the nonprofit could host only one medical provider at a time at its Kensington offices, which would effectively change how it has long operated. Another harm-reduction group, Savage Sisters, is now operating from a van after losing its storefront in Kensington. This spring, City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, who represents parts of the neighborhood, urged a Kensington landlord not to renew the lease. Now the council is considering new limits on outreach operations that provide medical care and distribute supplies from vehicles. A number of providers who serve people with addiction, including Temple Health and Project HOME, utilize mobile clinics to reach people who wouldnt otherwise seek medical care at a traditional doctors office. The bill would prohibit them from parking on residential streets, near schools, or within 100 feet of one another in the neighborhood, which is home to one of the largest open-air drug markets in the country. A vote has been delayed while Council members negotiate the particulars with providers, community members, and the mayor. First it was Savage on the chopping block, now its Prevention Point and the mobile services, Savage Sisters founder Sarah Laurel said. Cuts to programs for people with addiction Mayor Cherelle L. Parker has said she supports comprehensive public health strategies to address the overdose epidemic, and has committed $100 million in funding toward a drug treatment center and shelter to be constructed near the citys jail complex. But shortly into her first term, she said the city would no longer use settlement funds from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers to pay for sterile syringe exchanges and cut the program at Prevention Point, the citys only brick-and-mortar exchange. Such services should be privately funded instead, she has said. In response, Prevention Point has shrunk its schedule for handing out sterile syringes, which are crucial for preventing the spread of blood-borne illnesses such as HIV and hepatitis C, according to the groups lead executive officer, Silvana Mazzella. In the meantime, we have continued with reduced resources and enhanced fundraising activities from private funding, Mazzella said in an email. On top of those cuts, city officials informed the nonprofit in early 2024 that its zoning did not permit several doctors to see patients simultaneously, as had long been allowed. The nonprofit submitted a formal application to host more providers, which zoning officials denied in early December. The ruling could delay medical care for clients, the organization says, and it plans to appeal the decision. Tensions around harm-reduction work in Kensington Now a proposal to restrict where mobile services can operate could make it even harder for people with addiction to get medical care, advocates say. Lozada, who sponsored the mobile services bill, said she recognizes the necessity of mobile providers but wants them to follow a more organized, structured schedule. Community members have complained for years about people who receive services from mobile clinics lingering on their blocks, in some cases sitting on residents steps and refusing to leave, she said. Council members are viewing the addiction crisis as a trash and litter problem instead of a public health issue, said Kelsey Leon, who works with the Kensington mutual aid organization Community Action Relief Project. At one point this summer, I had two police cars with three lieutenants and two other foot cops pull up on me for the alleged crime of handing someone a bottle of water, said Leon, who had taken water bottles to McPherson Square Park, where people with addiction often congregate. At-large Councilmember James Harrity, who lives in Kensington, said smaller groups who come to the neighborhood to provide outreach do not coordinate with other groups. Sometimes, he said, they do not clean up the blocks where they park afterward. He said he also didnt want residents to see in public places people receiving care for serious wounds caused by xylazine, or tranq, the animal tranquilizer that has contaminated most of the citys illicit opioids. The council has discussed using a city-owned lot to offer a one-stop shop for health-care services, wound care, and food distribution, Lozada said, adding and that the neighborhood needs a combination of mobile services, inside services, hospital services, prevention and recovery services. But the city has not always followed through on pledges to bolster services, along with restrictions. In May, the clearing of a large encampment of people with addiction on Kensington Avenue raised concerns among harm-reduction workers. City officials had said the clearing would be led by outreach teams, but no city social service workers were on the scene when police arrived in the early morning and escorted encampment residents away. The city said that ultimately 59 people from the encampment entered shelters or treatment, including 31 on the day of the sweep. Since the sweeps, things have been more tense, Leon said. We need to be safeguarding this work Until it lost its lease, Savage Sisters provided showers, food, and basic wound care inside a storefront, out of the view of passersby. Since the loss of the lease, Savage Sisters has been conducting mobile outreach outside in Kensington. Our reach and our ability to serve more people has increased. I just dont think its the quality we had with a brick-and-mortar building, said Laurel, the organizations founder. Prevention Point staff agree brick-and-mortar addiction care facilities are the best practice, Mazzella said. But Prevention Points mobile operations can help engage with people who might be reluctant to seek care in traditional medical settings, Mazzella said, adding that the organization has met with Council members about the mobile services bill. This mobile care is critical, because we can meet people where they are and build the trust required to help them, she said. Editors note: This article has been updated to clarify Councilmember James Harritys title. Lawmakers in Harrisburg passed a law that puts limits on noncompete agreements for doctors, physicians assistant, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists. Read more Pennsylvania has a new law effective Jan. 1 that for the first time limits to one year the noncompete agreements that prevent doctors and other medical professionals from leaving an employer to work for a competitor. But the legislation isnt expected to change much on the ground, experts said. Advertisement Thats because it still allows health systems and other employers to bar doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists from taking jobs with competitors for up to a year. The Fair Contracting for Health Care Practitioners Act, signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in July, also does not limit the geographic reach of noncompetes, which makes it hard for doctors to change employers without a major relocation. And the law leaves existing restrictions in place from contracts signed in prior years. That means the law doesnt help Lorraine Rosamilia, a central Pennsylvania dermatologist. Rosamilia drives an hour one way from State College to DuBois, Pa., for her new job, because she had a two-year, 30-mile noncompete with her former employer. Im driving 50 miles, which is about an hour, to a smaller town, so that I can live in my community still where my kids are in school and where my husband owns a business, Rosamilia said. She left her old job because she didnt like how big the system had gotten. It got to the point where their main concern was how many people you were seeing a day, not the quality of the care you were giving, said Rosamilia, who is vice chair of the Pennsylvania Medical Society. Now, some of the 5,000 patients she had in the State College area are dealing with the consequences of her inability to keep practicing there. I cant go to the grocery store without someone telling me that their melanoma skin check was canceled and never rescheduled, or that they were supposed to have a surgery that was never booked, or that theyre three months behind on getting their injectable medicine that they need, because no one will get back to them about refills, Rosamilia said. A national issue Pennsylvanias adoption of a law limiting noncompetes happened as the U.S. Federal Trade Commission was trying to ban the use of such restrictions nationwide in all industries, arguing that they are especially harmful to low-wage workers because the agreements prevent them from taking higher-paying jobs. The FTC adopted the ban in April, but it faced fierce business opposition, and a federal judge in Texas in August blocked the federal government from enforcing it. Between 37% and 45% of physicians are bound by noncompete arrangements, according to the American Medical Association. There is no precise accounting of their use in Philadelphia, though written comments submitted to the FTC by doctors in Pennsylvania and New Jersey made it plain that the stakes are high. One physician said he left an underserved area in rural Pennsylvania for New Jersey to escape a noncompete. Its particularly irksome to doctors that employers also impose noncompetes on specialists who dont bring their own patients into health systems, such as hospitalists and intensive-care physicians who only provide hospital-based care. Radiologists work under similar circumstances. In a region with a high concentration of hospitals, a few miles can encompass many potential employers. For example, there are nearly 20 general hospitals in a 10-mile radius around Philadelphias City Hall, an analysis by The Inquirer found. The path to Pennsylvanias law The path to Pennsylvanias new law started before the FTC tried to ban noncompetes nationwide. Dan Frankel, a Democratic representative from Allegheny County, introduced a bill in August 2023 that banned all noncompete agreements for health-care practitioners. A subsequent version of the bill this year allowed them for two years and up to 45 miles. A lawyer who represents the interests of health systems said its important to allow some version of noncompetes. The purpose is to allow the health systems to protect their investment, such that you dont have employees, practitioners just jumping back and forth for more money, said Erin J. McLaughlin, a lawyer who works in the Pittsburgh and Newark, N.J., offices of Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney. Missing details in Pa.s law The law says employers cant enforce a noncompete against a physician who was dismissed, but it doesnt define dismissed. That creates uncertainty regarding how to handle dismissals for different reasons, such as whether a doctor was fired for cause or not, Karen Davidson, an independent lawyer who represents doctors, said in a newsletter for the Philadelphia County Medical Society. The law allows the enforcement of noncompetes against physician owners when a practice is sold. This is to protect buyers of practices from losing physicians after a sale closes. The law is not clear, however, on what happens when doctors sell their equity interest back to a practice when they want to leave. Can those sale documents include a noncompete even if the doctor has a very small stake? Thats not clear, McLaughlin said. Rosamilia, the central Pennsylvania dermatologist, described the law as a stepping stone. She likes that it called for a study by the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council on the impact of noncompetes on patients and doctors. That will hopefully look at how noncompetes affect access to health care, quality of care, doctors staying in Pennsylvania, or not staying in Pennsylvania, she said. The first doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID19 vaccine are delivered to Penn Medicine's Pennsylvania Hospital on Dec. 15, 2020. Read more The Nobel Prize-winning scientific innovation underlying the COVID-19 vaccine proved to be a notable financial boon for the University of Pennsylvania. And now the Ivy League school in West Philly is set to get nearly half a billion dollars more. Penn will receive $467 million under a settlement with German drug manufacturer BioNTech, which partnered with Pfizer to develop a COVID vaccine that relied on mRNA technology developed at the university. Advertisement The settlement, disclosed last week in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing, will resolve a lawsuit that Penn filed in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in August, in which the university alleged that BioNTech hasnt paid all the royalties it owes. Penn contended in the complaint that BioNTech has paid royalties only for sales in countries in which the university has patents for the mRNA technology, but that it was supposed to pay royalties on global sales of the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine. The university also said BioNTech paid a lower royalty rate than Penn is entitled to. Financial information, such as royalty percents and overall payments made, was redacted in the lawsuits. READ MORE: Penn reaped at least $1.6 billion in royalties from the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Now the university is suing for more. Under the settlement agreement, Penn will receive $400 million in royalties for 2020 through 2023, $15 million for a three-year extension for the companys and Penns vaccine alliance, and $52 million for a research fund that the university and the drugmaker will jointly manage. Pfizer will reimburse BioNTech for $170 million of the $400 million in royalties. Penn agreed to dismiss its lawsuit once it begins to receive payment, according to BioNTechs filing. The university did not respond to a request for comment. The settlement does not in any way constitute an admission of liability with respect to any allegation raised by Penn, all of which the Company expressly denies, BioNTech said in the SEC filing. BioNTech declined to comment beyond the information it provided to the SEC. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine that rolled out in late 2020 utilizes patented technology that was developed by Penn researchers Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman, who won the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine in 2023 for their work. Penn licensed the technology to BioNTech and Moderna in August 2020 through a subsidiary, Cellscript LLC, in return for royalties from sales. READ MORE: Scientists Nobel-winning vaccine research brought Penn prestige and a whole lotta money The settlements $400 million in back royalties brings Penns total windfall from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to at least $2 billion through 2023. Data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Open Payment system, which tracks transactions from pharmaceutical and medical device companies to health-care providers and teaching hospitals, show that Penn received $1.6 billion in royalties from BioNTech between 2021 and 2023. Data for 2024 are not yet available. Penn has also been receiving royalties from Moderna, but estimating those is more difficult. Experts previously told The Inquirer that the royalties are likely in the hundreds of millions if the agreement is within industry standards. BioNTech also disclosed last week a settlement with the National Institutes of Health for $791.5 million, including $750 million in royalties for patents held by the U.S. government. Pfizer will reimburse BioNTech for $364.5 million for its share. As in the Penn settlement, BioNTech noted that the agreement is not an admission of liability. The timing of President Jimmy Carters death on Sunday means U.S. flags will be at half-staff on Trumps inauguration day next month. Flags are to be flown at half-staff for 30 days from the day of a current or former president's death "on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions," as codified in the Office of the Federal Register in 1954. Advertisement The flag will also be lowered for the same period of time at U.S. embassies, military facilities, naval vessels and stations, and other facilities abroad, states Proclamation 3044, signed by President Dwight Eisenhower. Carter died Sunday at age 100, nearly two years after entering hospice care, at the home he had shared with wife Rosalynn Carter until her death last year. Trump won the presidential election against Kamala Harris in November, setting the stage for a second term by stocking his cabinet with billionaires and television personalities. The ailing Carter had said last fall that he wanted to live long enough to vote for Harris. The incoming president issued a statement on Truth Social upon Carters death that noted both his mixed presidential legacy and his patriotism. "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," Trump said. "For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." President Biden has declared a national day of mourning to be held on Jan. 9, the day of Carters state funeral in Washington. Following President-elect Donald Trumps endorsement of House Speaker Mike Johnson, some Pennsylvania Republicans have praised the speaker, but U.S. Rep. Scott Perry had sharper words for him. Trump announced on Monday that he fully endorses Johnsons retention as speaker after the Louisiana Republican faced backlash from some in his party over a bipartisan government funding deal to avert a shutdown. The endorsement is valuable for Johnson, who has led the House with a narrow Republican majority since October 2023. Advertisement Given the tight margins in the House, Johnson can afford few GOP defections when Congress begins its new session this week if he wants to keep his gavel. Trumps endorsement came as part of a diatribe about the presidential election and President Joe Bidens administration. After mentions of Beyonce and the Rev. Al Sharpton both surrogates for Vice President Kamala Harris unsuccessful campaign and various phrases in all caps, Trumps final sentence said: Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. MAGA!!! U.S. Rep.-elect Ryan MacKenzie (R., Pa.), a state representative who ousted U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D., Pa.), said in a statement to The Inquirer that Johnson has ably managed the tight House majority. Heading into the new Session, we need to stay focused on improving our economy, strengthening border security, and ending the chaos around the world, MacKenzie said. But U.S. Rep. Scott Perry (R., Pa.) had sharper words for Johnson, saying on Fox Business on Monday that the speaker has not been artful in advancing the Trump agenda. Perry had said on Friday that Trump would likely have the final say on who would become speaker. What we cant have is the disaster of what weve had over the last year and a half of having more Democrats voting for massive bills than Republicans under a Republican-led House, the York County Republican said Monday. He said that he believes Johnson understands that if hes going to be speaker, things are going to have to change. We have to be able to move the Trump agenda, Perry said, adding that he feels confident its going to work out one way or another. Perry did not respond to multiple requests for comment. U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R., Pa.) said that he supports Trumps endorsement of Johnson and that the House will continue to be a bulwark against the lefts destructive policies and correct course for our great nation under Johnsons leadership. As we move forward to build on the historic victory of 2024, President Trump is carefully assembling the best possible team to advance the America First agenda and Speaker Johnson will play a critical role in that effort, the Luzerne County lawmaker said in a statement to The Inquirer. Meuser called Johnson a man of principle, integrity, and hard work and said that Trumps trust in him speaks volumes. A spokesperson for U.S. Rep.-elect Rob Bresnahan (R., Pa.), who defeated U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright (D., Pa.), provided a forward-looking statement when asked to comment on Trumps endorsement. Rob looks forward to working with Speaker Johnson in the 119th Congress to secure our border, get our economy back on track and to deliver for the people of NEPA, said spokesperson Hannah Pope, referencing Bresnahans Northeast Pennsylvania district. U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R., Pa.), the Bucks County lawmaker who is the sole congressional Republican from the Philadelphia area, did not respond to multiple requests for comment. An earlier version of this story misidentified Ryan MacKenzies office at the time of the election. A federal workplace safety investigation has found a Glenburn, Maine general contractor ignored an onsite experts repeated warnings and the companys own site-specific safety plan prior to an incident in which an employee suffered fatal crushing injuries when an unbraced retaining wall collapsed at a Brownville worksite. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined two workers employed by Patriot Paving Group LLC were installing storm drainage pipes in a three-to-four-foot-deep trench in June 2024. At the same time, company owner, Clifford Lane, used an excavator near the retaining walls base, which destabilized it and caused a 40-to-60-foot-long section of the wall to tip over, according to OSHA. One worker escaped but the other worker was killed. According to OSHA investigators, Lane knew the wall next to the trench was unstable, but did not use necessary protective systems or evacuate employees. The continuing excavation created clear and imminent dangers. After its investigation, OSHA cited the company for five willful violations and proposed penalties of $161,325 for not bracing the retaining wall and exposing employees to struck-by and/or caught between hazards; failing to remove employees from the trench after it was determined to be hazardous; and not training or instructing three employees in the hazards associated with trench activities. The company has 15 business days to comply, request an informal conference with OSHAs area director, or contest the findings before OSHAs independent review commission. Patriot Paving Group LLC is a site preparation and general contractor specializing in residential and commercial paving, excavation and stormwater drainage work. Topics Workers' Compensation Contractors A Vermont man has been charged with first degree arson and insurance fraud for allegedly setting fire to his own home in Stamford. The Stamford Fire Department responded to a fire on Mill Road on the morning of December 27. Crews observed heavy black smoke from the eaves and a smoke-filled first floor with flames visible at the base of walls along both sides of a staircase. Firefighters reported they were able to save the structure. Stamford Fire Chief Paul Ethier contacted the Vermont Department of Public Safety Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit for assistance in determining the origin and cause of the fire. The investigation unit determined the cause to be arson and, upon further investigation, identified Joseph Pallas, of Stamford, as the individual who investigators believe purposely set fire to his residence. Vermont State Police reported that on December. 30, Pallas was issued a citation on charges of first-degree arson and insurance fraud. He is scheduled to appear for arraignment in February in the criminal division of Vermont Superior Court in Bennington. The affidavit of probable cause will be made public following Pallas arraignment. Topics Fraud As Rhode Island state officials feared would happen, hackers responsible for a ransomware attack on a popular state-administered benefits portal have posted some of the stolen information to the dark web. Governor Dan McKee told the public that experts are still working to determine how much personal data of the estimated 650,000 citizens who use the portal known as RIBridges has been released and what exactly is in the files. The cyber attack took place December 5. After an initial investigation, the sites administrator consulting firm Deloitte confirmed that some of the information breached contained names, addresses, dates of birth and Social Security numbers, as well as certain banking information. Any individual who has received or applied for health coverage and/or health and human services programs or benefits could be impacted by the leak. About a week after the attack, the state and Deloitte were warned by the hackers that stolen data would be exposed. The state has been urging citizens to take safety measures. Unfortunately, Deloitte has informed us that the cybercriminal released at least some RIBridges files to a site on the dark web. This is a scenario that the State has been preparing for, which is why earlier this month we launched a statewide outreach strategy to encourage potentially impacted Rhode Islanders to protect their personal information, McKee said in his latest annoucement. Rhode Island Social Services Portal Suffers Ransomware Attack; Citizens Data at Risk Negotiations have been underway with the cyber criminals over a potential ransom payment, The release of some of the stolen data suggests that the hackers have not yet been paid. Deloitte has indicated the Brain Cipher international ransomware gang is behind the breach. State officials also said that Deloitte is handling negotiations with the criminals, although state and federal officials will be consulted before any ransom is paid. McKee said the IT teams are analyzing the released files. This is a complex process and we do not yet know the scope of the data that is included in those files, but as weve been saying for several weeks, we should assume that data contained in the RIBridges system has been compromised. McKee stated. The governor also noted that while the data has been compromised, that does not mean it has been used for identity theft purposes, at least not yet. Since the attack, Deloitte Consulting has been hit with class action lawsuits over the cyber breach. The suits have been brought in Rhode Island and New York federal courts on behalf of individuals who applied for or are enrolled in benefits offered by RIBridges and whose personal private information may have been hacked. The suits claim that Deloitte, as services provider for RIBridges, has been negligent for failing to protect the plaintiffs sensitive data and for being slow to notify them of the breach. Deloitte Faces Class Action Lawsuits Over Rhode Island Cyber Breach Deloitte has acknowledged the presence of a malicious code in the system and implemented additional security measures. The system was taken offline to help the teams working on addressing the threat. RIBridges provides access to Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), Health coverage purchased through HealthSource RI, Rhode Island Works (RIW), Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and the General Public Assistance (GPA) programs. Currently customers are not be able to log into their accounts through the portal or the mobile app while the system is offline. Those seeking to apply for benefits can still submit paper applications. A dedicated call center has been activated at 833-918-6603. The state has also set up a site for updates on the RIBridges situation at cyberalert.ri.gov. Topics Cyber Fraud Finnish authorities investigating damage to subsea power and data cables found drag marks on the seabed likely left by the anchor of seized tanker Eagle S. Working under water, we have been able to identify the dragging track at the seabed from the beginning to the end, Sami Paila, detective chief inspector and tactical leader from Finlands National Bureau of Investigation, said in a statement on Sunday. The track is dozens of kilometers in length, he said, adding that it hasnt been possible to establish where the ships anchor detached from its chain. Finland has already identified the Eagle S as the culprit in the breakage of the power link. The tanker was moved to an anchorage near the port of Kilpilahti on Saturday. Poor weather hampered investigations both on board the vessel and at the underwater site on Sunday, the police said. The vessel, sailing under the Cook Islands flag, has been detained as the police probe possible aggravated criminal mischief. Authorities believe one of the ships anchors, which they found to be missing, severed a 170-kilometer (105-mile) electricity line that connects Finland and Estonia on Dec. 25. Since then, four underwater data cables have also been experiencing disruptions. Photograph: Oil tanker Eagle S outside the Porkkalanniemi, Kirkkonummi, on the Gulf of Finland on Dec. 28, 2024. Photo credit: Jussi Nukari/Lehtikuva/AFP/Getty Images Related: Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Chinese workers at a construction site in Brazil for a factory owned by Chinas electric vehicle producer BYD are victims of human trafficking, Brazilian labor authorities said on Thursday in a growing controversy in BYDs biggest overseas market. BYD and contractor Jinjiang Group have agreed to assist and house the 163 workers in hotels until a deal to end their contracts is reached, Brazils Labor Prosecutors Office said in a statement after meeting representatives from both firms. The brief statement did not provide details on how prosecutors had reached their conclusion. BYD and Jinjiang did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Friday [Jan. 27]. Jinjiang rejected the Brazilian authorities assessment on Monday that the workers at the site in the eastern state of Bahia were operating under slavery-like conditions. Jinjiang said, in a social media post reposted by a BYD spokesperson, that the portrayal of the workers as enslaved was inaccurate and that there were translation misunderstandings. BYD initially said it had cut ties with Jinjiang, but a BYD executive later accused foreign forces and some Chinese media of deliberately smearing Chinese brands and the country and undermining the relationship between China and Brazil. Chinas foreign ministry said on Friday it has maintained communication with the Brazilian side to verify the situation, adding that China protects workers rights and requires Chinese companies to operate in compliance with the law. The Brazil prosecutors said they would meet again with the companies on Jan. 7 and propose a deal. Chinas Growing Influence in Brazil A deal could clear BYD and Jinjiang from an investigation by labor prosecutors, but they could still face scrutiny from labor inspectors and from federal prosecutors, who have requested the sharing of evidence so that measures can be adopted in the criminal sphere, the statement said. BYD has been building the factory to produce 150,000 cars initially as part of plans to start production in Brazil early next year. Nearly one in five cars BYD sold outside China in the first 11 months of 2024 was in Brazil. The factory has become a symbol of Chinas growing influence in Brazil and an example of a closer relationship between both countries. BYD has invested $620 million to set up the Bahia factory complex alone. The reports of irregularities in Bahia could prove to be a major sticking point in bilateral relations. Brazil has long sought more Chinese investment. But Chinas model of taking Chinese workers to the countries where it invests presents a challenge to local job creation, a priority for President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The investigation also brings unwelcome attention to BYD when it is seeking to expand globally after having gained dominance in China, the worlds largest auto market, where it now takes up more than a third of the market of EVs and plug-in hybrids. BYD, poised to outsell Ford and Honda globally this year, has been on an extraordinary expansion at home and abroad, growing capacity and undertaking a massive hiring spree. The company had nearly 1 million employees as of September. While it still makes more than 90% of its sales in China, BYD has been building passenger vehicle factories in Hungary, Mexico, Thailand, Uzbekistan and Brazil to serve its major overseas markets and increasing investments in marketing abroad. Jinjiang also does construction for BYD in China, according to records on the Chinese companies information database Tianyancha. Rare Chinese Backlash Against BYD The case has triggered a rare backlash on Chinese social media against BYD, opening a discussion over worker rights, with several internet users saying living conditions for the workers in Brazil were typical of those found on construction sites in China. Brazilian prosecutors released videos of the workers living quarters that showed bunk beds without mattresses. They said the workers labored for excessively long hours, sometimes seven days a week, in conditions the authorities called degrading. In Brazil, slavery-like conditions include forced labor but also degrading work conditions, long hours that pose a risk to workers health, debt bondage and any work that violates human dignity. Prominent Chinese commentator Hu Xijin, a former editor of the Communist Party tabloid Global Timesechoed Jinjiang in saying there could be misunderstandings but said Chinese construction companies should improve the living conditions of their employees. For BYD, the case shows how it is likely to encounter more controversies in future as it emerges as Chinas most powerful EV brand, Hu said. The only thing BYD can do is to raise its own requirements and match its growing influence in all directions. This is not easy, but BYD should be able to do it. (Reporting by Fabio Teixeira and the Beijing and Shanghai newsrooms; editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman, Christian Schmollinger and William Mallard) British insurer Aviva could cut up to 2,300 jobs as it takes over smaller rival Direct Line in a 3.7 billion pound ($4.65 billion) cash-and-stock deal, the companies said on Monday [Dec. 23], creating the UKs largest home and motor insurer. The deal, which was first announced earlier this month, will see Direct Line shareholders receive 0.2867 new Aviva shares, 129.7 pence in cash and up to 5 pence in the form of a dividend, Aviva said. The takeover represents Aviva CEO Amanda Blancs biggest acquisition to date, as she tries to expand in the companys core markets of Britain, Canada and Ireland after selling a series of overseas assets to simplify the business. The combined company will shed between 5-7% of its total workforce as it eliminates overlapping roles, putting up to 2,300 jobs at risk, with the cuts spread over three years, the companies said. Aviva had just over 23,000 employees at the end of 2023 while Direct line had just over 10,000, according to the companies annual reports. Analysts said the terms of the deal were in line with expectations, and Aviva shares rose 0.5% on Monday [Dec. 23], following the announcement of the agreement. Christmas has come early for Direct Line investors, Matt Britzman, senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said in a note. Aviva and Direct Line reached a preliminary agreement in early December. Aviva had until Christmas Day to make a formal offer or walk away under UK takeover rules. Aviva aims to save 125 million pounds annually in pre-tax costs within three years after completion. Realizing the cost savings from the deal will result in one-off integration costs of approximately 250 million pounds, the companies said. The deal will also allow Aviva to increase its dividend after completion, by a mid single digit percentage, it said, but the company will no longer launch a share buyback next year while it completes the transaction. Direct Line, under CEO Adam Winslow who joined the company from Aviva in March, has made efforts to energize a business hurt by an underperforming motor insurance arm. The company missed expectations for half-year operating profit in September. It has implemented aggressive price hikes to mitigate the rising costs of claims and announced plans in November to cut 550 roles, or about 5% of its global workforce. ($1 = 0.7957 pounds) (Reporting by Chandini Monnappa and Aby Jose Koilparambil in Bengaluru and Lawrence White in London; editing by Varun H K, Mrigank Dhaniwala, Kirsten Donovan and Tomasz Janowski) Fatalities onboard passenger aircraft jumped to 318 this year with the two recent accidents, data compiled by Cirium shows. Thats by far the highest death toll since more than 500 people died in 2018, a year marked by the first of two Boeing Co. 737 Max crashes. This year started and ended with tragedies in Japan and South Korea during attempted landings, among the most dangerous phases of flight. Fatal aviation accidents remain very rare, and one major incident can suddenly turn a statistically safe year into one of the worst. The recent spike falls into the margins of unpredictability, said Darren Straker, a former head of air accident investigation units in the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong. He suggested airline crews could be better trained to respond to so-called outlier events. Investigators have yet to determine why a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 a predecessor to the Max careered down the runway at Muan International Airport early Sunday with no landing gear deployed and smashed into a concrete wall. All but two of the 181 people on board died as the wrecked jet exploded into a ball of fire. The fatal Jeju Air crash was the airlines first, and ranks as the worst civil air accident ever in South Korea. As the plane neared the airport, one of the pilots reported a bird strike, declared a mayday and initiated a fly-around procedure, according to Korean transport ministry officials. The plane then turned back and attempted to land in the opposite direction, with the barrier in its path at that end of the runway. While it seems increasingly evident a bird strike was an initiator of this tragic chain of events, what happened next is less clear, said Jeff Guzzetti, a former accident investigation chief for the US Federal Aviation Administration. Key questions include why flaps werent extended that could have slowed the plane down, and why the landing gear wasnt lowered, Guzzetti said. If birds damaged both of the engines, that could have caused a loss of power affecting those other systems, he said. If you have both engines out or even one engine theres going to be lots of cautions and warnings and bells and whistles going off in the cockpit, he said. And that can really challenge a flight crew. While the Jeju Air aircraft was almost entirely destroyed, investigators will have valuable data to work with as they reconstruct the event. The damaged flight data device may take longer to analyze than the cockpit voice recorder. After another Jeju plane experienced a landing-gear issue, Korean authorities on Monday ordered maintenance record checks of 101 other 737-800s in operation among local airlines. Boeing shares fell 1.8% as of 1:08 p.m. in New York, bringing their 2024 decline to 32%. The wider inspections came as investigators started to analyze the cockpit voice recorder and the damaged flight data device, which hold crucial clues into the movements of the jet and the actions and state of the pilots. In January, a huge Japan Airlines Co. jet collided with a coastguard plane at Tokyos Haneda Airport. Everyone aboard the commercial jetliner survived, but five people on the smaller aircraft were killed. The year was also marred by a fatal case of severe turbulence in May on a Singapore Airlines Ltd. jet flying over Myanmar. In July, Nepals Saurya Airlines crashed after taking off from Kathmandu, killing 18. And in August dramatic footage of a plane operated by Brazilian airline VoePass captured the turboprop freefalling from the sky after encountering icy weather conditions. That accident killed 62. Global conflicts may also have contributed to this years aviation fatalities. The Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer SA 190 had nearly completed a scheduled flight from the capital city of Baku to Grozny, Russia, on Dec. 25 when it was suddenly diverted across the Caspian Sea. The damaged plane crashed about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from its destination of Aktau, Kazakhstan. Azerbaijans president has said the plane was accidentally shot down by Russia. The spike in fatalities marks a reversal from 2023, which became the safest year ever in aviation with no deaths among large passenger jetliners typically planes made by Airbus SE and Boeing. Airline safety has been improving for decades as regulators, manufacturers and carriers incorporate lessons learned to minimize accidents and improve the chances of survival when things go wrong. Fire-repelling designs on the carbon-hulled Airbus A350 involved in Januarys Tokyo crash, for example, combined with near-flawless execution by the JAL crew and rescue team to allow all 379 people onboard to survive. Its best to look at aviation safety over decade-long periods, said Jan-Arwed Richter, an aviation safety consultant who runs the Jacdec research site in Hamburg, Germany. Im pretty confident that 2024 may be regarded as an outlier in years to come, he said. Top photograph: The tail of Jeju Air plane at the site of a plane fire at Muan International Airport, South Korea, on Dec. 29, 2024; Photo credit: SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg Related: Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics Numbers A ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans, a top White House official said Dec. 27. Biden administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger told reporters Dec. 27 that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. The update from Neuberger is the latest development in a massive hacking operation that has alarmed national security officials, exposed cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the private sector and laid bare Chinas hacking sophistication. The hackers compromised the networks of telecommunications companies to obtain customer call records and gain access to the private communications of what officials have said is a a limited number of individuals. Though the FBI has not publicly identified any of the victims, officials believe senior U.S. government officials and prominent political figures are among those whose whose communications were accessed. Neuberger said Friday that officials did not yet have a precise sense how many Americans overall were affected by Salt Typhoon, in part because the Chinese were careful about their techniques, but that a large number were in the Washington-Virginia area. Officials believe the goal of the hackers was to identify who owned the phones and, if they were government targets of interest, spy on their texts and phone calls, she said. The FBI said most of the people targeted by the hackers are primarily involved in government or political activity. Neuberger said the episode highlighted the need for required cybersecurity practices in the telecommunications industry, something the Federal Communications Commission is to take up at a meeting next month. In addition, she said, the government was planning additional actions in coming weeks in response to the hacking campaign, though she did not say what they were. We know that voluntary cyber security practices are inadequate to protect against China, Russia and Iran hacking of our critical infrastructure, she said. The Chinese government has denied responsibility for the hacking. Photo: Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics China Nearly all of Puerto Rico was without power Tuesday after a widespread failure in the fragile electricity grid triggered an island-wide blackout. The outage began at 5:30 a.m., leaving about 1.3 million of Puerto Ricos 1.4 million customers in the dark, according to Luma Energy, the private company that operates the system. Crews have begun restoring electricity in some areas, but it may take 24 to 48 hours to fully resume service, officials said. It was a major event, Josue Colon, director of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, said in an interview with WKAQ radio. Initial indications point to a fault in an underground cable, though the exact cause remains under investigation, Luma said. The company said its activated its Emergency Operations Center and is coordinating with power providers to restart the system in phases. Luma plans to provide updates every two hours via social media. The US territory has one of the most expensive and least reliable power systems in the nation, with frequent outages plaguing residents. Tuesdays outage was the most extensive since Hurricane Ernesto hit in August, leaving roughly half the island without power. Efforts to modernize the power system have been slow, stoking anger among residents, whose daily lives are often disrupted. Julio Romero, 59, who was delivering newspapers on the streets of San Juan on Tuesday, said he was worried about what the blackout could mean for New Years celebrations. If this continues on until tonight, then god save us, this will be total chaos, he said. What a way to end the year. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Officials assessed the damage on Sunday after a strong storm system moved across the southern U.S. over the weekend, spawning tornadoes and killing at least four people. There were at least 45 reports of tornado damage across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia, said Brian Hurley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Services Weather Prediction Center. Crews will do damage surveys to confirm tornadoes. The storms during busy holiday travels caused some treacherous road conditions along with delays or cancellations at some of the busiest U.S. airports. As of Sunday afternoon, there were over 600 flight delays affecting Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, according to flight tracker FlightAware. Its not unheard of, but it is fairly uncommon to have a severe weather outbreak of this magnitude this late in the year, said Frank Pereira, a meteorologist with the Weather Prediction Center. In the Houston area, National Weather Service storm survey crews confirmed that at least five tornadoes hit north and south of the city on Saturday. At least one person died. The 48-year-old woman was found about 100 feet (30 meters) from her home in the Liverpool area south of Houston, said Madison Polston of the Brazoria County Sheriffs Office. She said the exact cause of death wasnt immediately known. Four other people in Brazoria County had injuries that werent considered critical, said Polston, adding that at least 40 homes and buildings were significantly damaged. In Montgomery County, north of Houston, about 30 homes were destroyed and about 50 others sustained major damage, county official Jason Smith said. In North Carolina, a 70-year-old man was killed Sunday in Statesville, just north of Charlotte, when a tree landed on the pickup truck he was driving. Highway Patrol Trooper DJ Maffucci said it was just a freak accident and he believed Matthew Teeple, of Cleveland, North Carolina, was killed instantly. Its very sad, just terrible timing, Maffucci said, adding that the storms were responsible for a number of downed trees and quite a few wrecks. Two people were killed in storms in Mississippi, officials said. An 18-year-old died after a tree fell on her home Saturday night in Natchez in Adams County, said Emergency Management spokesperson Neifa Hardy. Two other people in the home were injured. Another person died in Lowndes County and at least eight more were injured across the state, officials said. The National Weather Service said two tornadoes hit around Bude and the city of Brandon, ripping roofs from several buildings. Storm damage also was reported in the northern Alabama city of Athens, northwest of Huntsville. Holly Hollman, spokeswoman for the city, said most of the damage from the early Sunday morning storms occurred downtown. She said it hurled large HVAC units from the tops of building and ripped the roof off a bookstore. A full-sized, stripped-down military helicopter was toppled from a pole where it was on display, she added. I stepped out on my porch and I could hear it roar, she said of the storm. I think we are extremely lucky that we got hit late at night. If it had hit during the busy hours, I think we might have had some injuries and possibly some fatalities. As of Sunday afternoon, over 40,000 people were still without power in Mississippi, according to electric utility tracking website PowerOutage.us. Texas, Alabama, North Carolina and Georgia each had about 10,000 customers without power, it said. The storms closed some roads in western North Carolina, a region broadly devastated by Hurricane Helene this fall. That included part of U.S. 441, also known as the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway, which closed north of Bryson City due to high winds. In Bumpus Cove, Tennessee, Justin Fromkin, president of Raising Hope Disaster Relief, worked Sunday to save what he could from the organizations supply tent filled with clothes and food after about 6 inches (152 millimeters) of rain fell. Hes spent the past few months delivering aid to areas in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee that are still reeling from Helene. The ground in some parts of the mountains is still unstable from Helene, Fromkin said, and Sundays downpour adds to the problem. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Windstorm An investigation by the U.S. Department of Labors Wage and Hour Division found Methodist Family Health in Little Rock, Ark. terminated a worker while out on family medical leave, a violation of the Family Medical Leave Act. The worker had qualified for 12 weeks of protected leave for a serious medical condition and parental leave after their childs birth, but the employer terminated the worker after nine weeks of leave. The employer erroneously limited the workers amount of protected leave based on the combined use of leave between the worker and the workers spouse who is also employed by the company. The Department of Labor recovered $14,082in back wages. ERWIN, Tenn. (AP) Jerry and Sibrina Barrett never spent a day apart over 35 years. They worked long hours, never took vacations, and liked to relax with their son at home. They had no idea that a hurricane could reach them in the mountains of East Tennessee. Living in Johnson City, they were barely aware that Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida on September 26. The next day it was raining heavily, so Sibrina went in late to her once-a-week cleaning job at the Impact Plastics factory. It was the last time they saw each other. Today, Sibrina Barnetts clothes are just where she left them, on her side of the bed. Her nail polish and shampoo are still in the bathroom. Her sweater still hangs from the back of a kitchen chair. Jerry knows he will have to move them one day, but not yet. Helene caused catastrophic damage, the deadliest storm to hit the U.S. mainland since Katrina in 2005. At least 221 people were killed. Many were like Sibrina, drowning in floods hundreds of miles inland. Behind every number was a person whose absence is sorely felt. Just trying to enjoy life She was 17 and he was 20 when they met, and 35 years later, we never left each others side, Jerry said. At first they would cruise in Jerrys Camaro and blast the stereo, which you could hear from a little way, he jokes. They would catch a group of friends or something, maybe park and sit around and talk between her night shifts as a waitress. We wasnt really wild people or anything. We was just a couple young people trying to enjoy life a little bit, he said. A few years later, she was pregnant. They got married and made their future, in a mobile home in the same community Jerry has known all his life. Me and her, both, growing up as kids, didnt really have a lot, Jerry says. We wasnt poor, but we wasnt wearing Levis and Nikes and stuff either. They were both workaholics. He does HVAC repair, but she was proud to be the main breadwinner. Six days a week, shed handle a morning cleaning job, then clean a private school in the evening. Clients loved her for being meticulous shed sometimes go back over areas already cleaned by a different crew until they met her standards. Work making money, thats how youre going to have anything, Jerry says. She spoiled me and my son. Thats exactly what she did. Caimen is 21 now, but the first thing visitors see in the home he shares with his dad is a coffee-table-sized resin model of characters from the Dragonball Z anime show. Dozens of smaller models fill a living room display case. Still more line the hallway. Sibrina ordered the figures and they would assemble them together. Some came all the way from Japan and cost thousands of dollars. We decided to kind of just enjoy it as we went, instead of trying to have a bunch for retirement or our older age, Jerry said. Given what happened, Im kind of glad we did. One of the display cases now holds Sibrinas urn. The Flood Sibrina hated driving in bad weather, so she went in late to Impact Plastics on Sept. 27. Rainwater would often pool on the factory parking lot, but she called Jerry on her break to report it was higher than usual. Then she called again the water had risen to the bottom of her car door. Jerry put his tools away and drove to get her, but the exit off the interstate was blocked. Dont worry about even trying to get down in here, she told him. She said, Just go home. It looks like Im going to be here for a few hours.' What happened next, Jerry learned second-hand. As the water kept rising, Sibrina and nine other workers retreated to the highest point the flatbed of a tractor-trailer loaded with giant coils of plastic tubing. It wasnt high enough. They called 911, but first responders were focused on a different emergency: Dozens of people were trapped on the roof of a nearby hospital. Then the truck flipped over, sending the workers into the raging water. Some managed to float on the tubing and were washed onto a pile of debris. Sibrina was one of six who died. Many Americans havent thought of inland areas as being particularly vulnerable to severe weather, but places like Erwin, in a valley alongside the Nolichucky River, are increasingly prone to disasters. Jerry hung up with Sibrina and went back to work. He had no idea how bad the flooding was, and didnt learn she was missing until hours later. He tried searching for clues in YouTube videos. Eight days passed before her body was recovered. The litigation Jerrys lawyer, Luke Widener, said the workers relied on management to warn them of dangers outside because the factory had few windows. Some said they werent allowed to stop work until the power went out. By then the access road was under water. Widener also represents Zinnia Adkins, who earned $11.50 an hour as a temporary employee at Impact Plastics. Shes alive, she said, because a co-worker gripped her tightly in the chest-deep water. She cant swim and is deathly afraid of spiders, which were all over the waters surface. Months later, she still sleeps on the couch because the bed feels too open and unsafe. A lot of good people lost their lives that day, Adkins said. Its just its a hard memory for me to relive. The family of another employee, Johnny Peterson, filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the company and its owner, Gerald OConnor, who said the workers were dismissed with enough time to escape. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the states workplace safety office have opened investigations. Top photo: The aftermath of the flooding at the Impact Plastics plant in Erwin. (AP Photo/George Walker IV) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Flood Tennessee ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) A theme park resort and a huge hotel in central Florida either have stopped using drones or canceled their drone-based shows after several drones collided and fell from the sky during a separate holiday celebration in downtown Orlando. The accident injured a boy who required surgery. Universal Orlando said this week that it was pausing the drone component of its CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular show, while Orlando World Center Marriott posted that it was canceling its scheduled drone shows during the holiday week. The halt in using drones follows last Saturdays accident when drones fell into a crowd of thousands of people watching a holiday show at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. A 7-year-old boy was hit in the chest by a drone and required heart surgery, according to his mother. The accident is being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board. Orlando World Center Marriott said other activities for its 12 Days of Seasonal Fun celebration would continue, including visits from Santa, family games and a fireworks show on New Years Eve. The non-drone elements of Universal Orlandos CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular show, put on at the end of the night, will continue with fireworks, projections and synchronized fountains accompanied by a soundtrack from movies, theme park officials said. Guests can still enjoy the show nightly at Universal Studios Florida, the theme park resort said in a statement. Photo: The CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular drone show at Universal Studios theme park in Orlando on Dec. 21, before it was halted. (Dewayne Bevil/Orlando Sentinel via AP) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Florida Numbers Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. acquired Tustin, California-based Murray Gardner Insurance Agency Inc., dba BMR Insurance. Gary Arch and his team will remain in their current location under the direction of Scott Firestone, head of Gallaghers Southwest region retail property/casualty brokerage operations. BMR Insurance is a retail insurance agency serving commercial and personal lines clients primarily across Southern California. Arthur J. Gallagher is an insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions California A.J. Gallagher The conclusion of a criminal case against Alec Baldwin in the fatal shooting of a cinematographer clears the way for a related civil lawsuit by relatives of the deceased woman and efforts to depose the actor under oath, attorneys for plaintiffs in the civil suit said Tuesday. At a news conference in Los Angeles, victims rights attorney Gloria Allred said that the parents and younger sister of deceased cinematographer Halyna Hutchins were disappointed that prosecutors wont appeal the dismissal of an involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin. The criminal charge against Baldwin was dismissed halfway through trial in July on allegations that police and prosecutors withheld evidence from the defense. Hutchins died shortly after being wounded during a rehearsal in the movie Rust in October 2021 at a film-set ranch on the outskirts of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Baldwin, the lead actor and coproducer, was pointing a pistol at Hutchins when it discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. Baldwin has said he pulled back the hammer but not the trigger and the revolver fired. Related: Trial of Armorer in Movie Set Shooting Gives Baldwins Team Window into His Trial Allred said Hutchins relatives are determined to pursue damages and compensation from Baldwin and Rust producers in New Mexico civil court, and want Baldwin to answer questions under oath in the proceedings. Hutchins widower and son previously reached a separate legal settlement. With the withdrawal that was made public yesterday, we are now able to proceed with our civil case, Allred said. Clearly, the rights of Alec Baldwin were protected, but the due process rights of the victims Halyna Hutchins and her parents and her sister were violated. Allred said shes ready to prove that Hutchins had a close relationship with her parents and sister a prerequisite for seeking civil damages. In November court filings in the civil lawsuit, Baldwin denied allegations that he was negligent or at fault in the shooting of Hutchins and sought to suspend the case. Attorneys for Baldwin could not immediately be reached Tuesday. Allred read a statement from Hutchins sister, Svetlana Zemko, that said, Mr. Baldwin must be held accountable. Related: Trial in Fatal New Mexico Movie Shooting to Focus on How Live Ammunition Got on Set In April, a judge sentenced movie weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed to the maximum of 1 1/2 years at a state penitentiary on an involuntary manslaughter conviction in Hutchins death. Allred condemned New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez for declining to appeal the dismissal of the criminal charge against Baldwin, calling him the Grinch who stole Christmas at the Christmas Eve news conference. Torrez spokesperson Lauren Rodriguez defended the decision in an email, citing significant procedural irregularities identified by the judge in the criminal case. Attorney General Torrez will not prolong the grief and anguish of Ms. Hutchins family in the vain attempt to salvage the compromised criminal case against Mr. Baldwin, Rodriguez said. There are other victims families in Santa Fe County and across New Mexico who are awaiting justice, and our energy needs to be devoted to supporting those cases on appeal. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Fraud Mexico New Mexico In farming, if you didnt laugh, youd cry, captures the essence of Lorna Sixsmiths charming new romantic comedy, Country Girl at Heart. The Crettyard, Co Laois dairy farmers light-hearted romantic comedy is about finding love in unexpected places, rediscovering oneself in the most absurd situations and embracing a life you never expected. This follows her previous titles, Would You Marry a Farmer?, How to be a Perfect Farm Wife, An Ideal Farm Husband and Till the Cows Come Home. Described as a blend of Bridget Jones Diary and Oh My God, What a Complete Aisling, the novel is written in a diary format from the perspective of the main character, Kelly. The book depicts what farming life is like, as told through the eyes of Kelly, a city girl learning the ropes of rural life. Having left London with a broken heart and only what will fit in her small car, Kelly makes her grand entrance to her uncle and aunts farm in Kilkenny by nose-diving into a snowdrift. Unexpectedly thrown into the farming deep end, her dream of a peaceful rural escape becomes a comedy of agricultural errors. She never anticipated wrangling a goat with attitude, helping to deliver calves, learning to drive a loader or navigating a love triangle. City girl learning the ropes of rural life Sixsmith told The Farming Examiner: It took me three years to write the novel Country Girl at Heart, partly because writing fiction was new to me. I found myself going in different directions with it. This was partly because I was so busy on the farm and with teenagers that it was difficult to get sufficient writing time. The story highlights Kellys dramatic shift from city to rural life, showing the colossal change in culture by moving to her aunts and uncles farm and having to get stuck in with some farming jobs. She must cope with inquisitive neighbours, escaping livestock, occasional despair with a lack of Wi-Fi and loneliness and feeling like she is living in a goldfish bowl as everyone observes what she is doing. Her humorous misadventures include her wellies being stuck in mud or her thought processes as she is faced with ten large, escaped cows thundering towards her, and all she has to stop them is a bag containing a newspaper and a loaf of bread. Lorna Sixsmith with her dog Lou. Picture: Damien Carroll Sixsmith continued: This book has been inspired by so many farming women, many of whom came from town/city backgrounds, who married farmers and got stuck in - driving machinery and milking cows or whatever needed to be done. Some also support the farm financially at times with their off-farm job. I want to show, through writing, that women can do it. We all know they can, but quite often, womens work is not recognised as fully as it should be. This novel has also been dedicated to farming women. "I really admire city women and men who marry farmers. They do their best to embrace farming life, with many milking cows and feeding calves or herding sheep, and being totally embroiled in the way of life. And others have struggled with the loneliness, dirt, smells, in-laws, etc. And for many, it is a mixture of the two. I wanted to present books showing what farming life is like so they can feel less alone and laugh at their own situations. Those thrown into the farming life, often through marriage, have to cope with being the centre of attention as everyone wonders what they are doing, not to mention having to contribute to community and charity events, often by baking cakes, she added. And, of course, feeding contractors and stopping a gap or becoming an emergency midwife to a calving. She continued: You dont just marry the farmer, you marry the whole family, Hopefully, their spouse can understand that for some, farming life is not 100% instinctive and natural. Non-farmers are often amazed by the realities of farming, including that grass does not just grow, that it costs money to grow grass, be it re-seeding or spreading slurry/fertiliser and that bulls are not always red. Also, that calf-rearing can be so time-consuming; that livestock will hear you making plans to go out and will break out or get sick; that sheep have a death wish. Many spouses find that their questions are met with disbelief, whereas for farmers, these things are common sense. Five novels Sixsmith has set the first novel in 2017, not long after the end of dairy quotas in the EU. This will be a series of five novels covering 2017-2027. This will be interesting as I do not know what is ahead for dairy farming either, she added. In the background, farmers will cope with various weather events and the ups and downs in farming finances. Many of the characters are exaggerated or modified versions of people we all come across in rural Ireland, she added. Men have read it and enjoyed, but my main target audience is women who are married to farmers and need to laugh at themselves and the situations they often end up in. A secondary target is those who do not live in the countryside and are intrigued to see what it is like. And yes, sometimes characters are lonely, overworked, or stressed. Some events are totally from my imagination, but quite a few are modified versions of my own experiences. I can honestly say this is what life is like in the Irish farming world. Farming roots Even though Sixsmith was brought up on a dairy farm and although she enjoyed farming life, she did not want to farm when she was eighteen. She was an English teacher, and her husband, Brian, was a scientist when they returned to farming in 2002, taking over from her parents and their dairy farm in Laois. She started writing books in 2013, her first being Would You Marry a Farmer? inspired by a session of separating calves with Brian. She was told to stop the black one, and they were all varying degrees of black and white. She has also published two gift books, abbreviated versions of her first three books, perfect as Secret Santa/stocking filler gifts or gifts for hen or stag parties/weddings. 100 Tips for Farm Wives and Husbands which is just that, 100 fun but realistic tips for anyone marrying a farmer, complete with some illustrations. Unless you want a particular farming job forevermore, dont learn how to do it and hone your telepathy skills. When a farmer says, pass that yoke, youre supposed to magically know if they mean a hammer, a rope, or something that isnt even near you, Sixsmith added. 100 Facts about Farming Life is designed to make farmers laugh at themselves and educate and entertain non-farmers about farming life. Everyone in a farming household has to be quiet when the weather forecast is on TV or radio, including any visitors. Farming means owning a dozen penknives and being unable to find one, she concluded. Country Girl at Heart and her other titles are available in some bookshops, on lornasixsmith.com, and on Amazon. 100 Tips for Farm Wives and Husbands - 10 100 Facts about Farming Life - 10 Country Girl at Heart - 16 We Live in Time There are few sights more glorious in modern cinema than Florence Pugh cutting loose, and We Live in Time (15A) affords her plenty of opportunity to flex. Pugh plays Almut, who is a brilliant, driven chef when she meets Weetabix rep Tobias (Andrew Garfield), whose diffident, retiring personality is very much the yin to Almuts brash and bolshy yang. But opposites attract, as they generally do on the silver screen, even when one character has the temerity to knock down the other in a road accident. Happily, Almut quickly hauls Tobias off to hospital and sticks around to hold his hand, whereupon they are quickly established as a young, attractive couple whose meeting of minds augurs well for their long-term future. This much we learn in flashback, however; almost as soon as the film begins, Almut receives the horrendous news that she has ovarian cancer, with no guarantee that the proposed treatment will be successful. Florence Pugh in We Live In Time John Crowleys film, which is written by Nick Payne, is presented in a non-linear style, flashing back and forward through the timeline of the couples relationship to devastating emotional effect. A hard-won compromise now is no guarantee of harmony in the following scene; the peaks and troughs of any healthy relationship tend to clash rather than rise and fall. Through it all, though, Pugh and Garfield sustain a wonderfully organic chemistry, its effect heightened by Stuart Bentleys regular and extended close-ups of both actors, which dramatically accentuate both the intensity of the scenes and the couples intimacy. Were not exactly rooted in gritty realism: Garfields thoughtful and gentle Tobias is a little too good to be true, and its unlikely that Almuts failing health would allow her to compete in the gruelling Bocuse dOr, aka the culinary Olympics. That said, the story feels unusually authentic as the ostensibly mismatched pair navigate the large and small milestones of a relationship lived defiantly in the face of impending doom. In cinemas Nosferatu Lily-Rose Depp stars in Robert Eggerss Nosferatu Robert Eggerss Nosferatu (16s) is remake of F.W. Murnaus classic horror Nosferatu (1922), which was largely adapted from Bram Stokers Dracula. The story opens in 1838, with newlywed estate agent Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult) travelling from Germany to the heart of the Carpathian Alps to formalise the purchase of Grunewald Manor by the mysterious Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard). In taking on the commission offered by his employer Knock (Simon McBurney), Thomas pooh-poohs the fears of his wife Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), a woman prone to melancholy diagnosed as hysterical spells by the diligent but condescending Dr Sievers (Ralph Ineson), and who is terrorised by dreams of death made manifest in the form of a predatorial beast she seems to previously encountered literally or otherwise in her childhood. So far, so standard, but Eggers distracts us from the familiar with a dazzlingly beautiful opening half in which the gothic tropes are invested with a naturalism that grounds the supernatural elements and renders Thomass plight a genuinely chilling experience. The counts castle, for example, looms over its Carpathian valley like foreshadowing made stone; inside, however, all is decay, coarse fabrics and fractured paving, and a long cry from the kind of sybaritic luxury weve come to expect of the aristocratic undead. Having swathed the story in the hyper-realism of a fever dream, however, Eggers then moves the story back to Germany, where Ellens visions and night-wanderings are more literally explored in the wake of the counts arrival. Its all suitably grotesque, but the recurring motifs of plague, blood, death and eroticism grow a little wearying in their repetition, especially when the disgraced Professor Franz (Willem Dafoe) wades into the fray with his frantic ravings. Nicholas Hoult and Lily-Rose Depp are both strong as the twin leads, and while we see very little of Bill Skarsgard beneath the prosthetic make-up, his hulking, rotting vampire is the very stuff of nightmares. In cinemas Ireland may adopt a working definition of antisemitism, but has been pushed for more concrete action. Ireland is currently one of two EU states which has not adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, a fact used to criticise the country by Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa'ar when closing the Israeli embassy in Dublin. Ireland has signed up to the IHRA, an intergovernmental organisation that brings together governments and experts to share best practice and promote "historically informed policy-making", since 2011, but has not implemented its definition of antisemitism. In 2022, Equality Minister Roderic O'Gorman said in a parliamentary reply that Ireland was supportive of the definition but "did not consider the illustrative examples that followed to be an integral part of the definition". According to the IHRA: Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. "Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities. The definition adds, however, that this "might include the targeting of the state of Israel, conceived as a Jewish collectivity". "However, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic. "Antisemitism frequently charges Jews with conspiring to harm humanity, and it is often used to blame Jews for 'why things go wrong'. "It is expressed in speech, writing, visual forms and action, and employs sinister stereotypes and negative character traits." Asked whether Ireland is planning on adopting the definition, the Department of Equality said that it will. "The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth works to address antisemitism as part of its implementation of the National Action Plan against Racism (NAPAR). "This plan takes a comprehensive approach to addressing all forms of racism in Ireland, including antisemitism and anti-Muslim prejudice." The department said it recently awarded a grant to the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland to assist in its efforts to counteract online antisemitism by achieving trusted flagger status under the EU Digital Services Act. "Ireland now has stronger legal protections against antisemitism and other forms of racism. "The Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024 provides for increased prison terms for crimes such as assault that are motivated by racism, antisemitism or other forms of hate. "It is intended that the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism will be considered as part of the implementation of the NAPAR in the coming years." Jewish Representative Council of Ireland chairperson Maurice Cohen told the Irish Examiner that the intention from the department is welcome, but concrete action is needed. "However, 'intention' without a clear timeline leaves room for uncertainty. "Given the rise in antisemitic incidents globally and here at home, it is imperative that Ireland demonstrates its willingness to tackle and outlaw antisemitism by embedding the IHRA definition into everyday policy without delay. "Strengthening legal protections, as outlined in the Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024, is commendable, but comprehensive measures require proactive alignment with international standards like the IHRA definition to address antisemitism effectively and unequivocally." In his criticism of Ireland, Mr Sa'ar accused Taoiseach Simon Harris of antisemitism, a charge the Taoiseach did not respond to. Hacking ice blocks from the frozen ground while battling the terrifying creep of frostbite in a raging snow storm on the only continent on earth so inhabitable no life can thrive inland, Derek Mahon faced down another exceptional challenge. Days later, the Meath man, who previously survived cancer, became the oldest Irish person to summit the highest peaks on seven continents on December 14 when he reached the peak of Mount Vinson in Antarctica. He completed this inhospitable climb just before his 63rd birthday. Mr Mahon also set the record to become the 15th Irish person to summit the seven highest peaks on the seven continents. In 2012, he summited 5,642m Mount Elbrus; in 2014 he climbed the 8,848m Mount Everest; in 2017 it was Kilimanjaro at 5,895m; followed by Aconcagua at 6,961m in 2019. Derek Mahon at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. He climbed Denali at 6,192m in 2022 and Mount Kosciuszko at 2,228m this year and Mount Vinson at 4,892m. He is the 29th Irish person ever to summit Mount Vinson. Antarctica is spectacularly beautiful and its vastness can trick the human brain into interpreting the seemingly endless white mountain ranges that kiss the horizon as clouds, he said. The sky and landscape meld and melt together in dazzling gradients of blues and whites and greys. Antarctica is the fifth-largest continent and is approximately 40% larger than Europe. Its colloquial name as the cold desert is apt, he said. Antarctica is the fifth-largest continent and is approximately 40% larger than Europe. Flying the four hours from southern Chile on a plane specially modified to be able to land on glaciers in Antarctica, all he could see was seemingly endless sea and ice. It was exceptionally beautiful. We flew December 7. The plane takes maybe 150 or 180 people but there was only 30 people on it, they were mostly mountaineers." The plane specially modified to be able to land on glaciers in Antarctica. They landed on Union Glacier. When weather allowed, they took a twin prop Otter plane across the mountain range to Mount Vinson base camp. On arrival they had to set up camp. The last climbers had buried food and equipment in January. The frozen ground kept the tents and equipment safe and the food chocolate, nuts, meat, pasta and some vegetables fresh. You're digging down to about four feet from the surface. And it's just natural refrigeration. So everything stays frozen and fresh. We got all our tents up. The mess tent was up. All the cooking utensils and gas were taken up. We had some dinner and stayed there for two days just to rest and recover and get used to the cold temperatures and the most beautiful surroundings that you've ever seen. Nothing lives there. There's not a bird sound. There's not an animal sound. It's just vastness of ice and snow and mountains. It's just incredible. And it really is peaceful. Daytime temperatures ranged from -10C to -15C but it dropped to -20C in the evening, even though there was 24 hour daylight. Higher in the mountains it fell to -25C. But when they got trapped in a snowstorm, it dropped below -30C with windchill. On December 9 we moved from Vincent Base Camp up to Low Camp. It's a long drag rather than very arduous. It took us about six hours to get to Low Camp. And again, when we arrived we had to set up full camp again. But a treacherous snowstorm began to swirl around the mountaineers and they had to slice large ice blocks from the ground to make ice walls around all the tents to prevent them being blown away or destroyed in the storm. Derek Mahon on the Denali summit. Tiny ice particles carried by winds at 35 or 40 miles per hour can damage your eyes so wearing goggles all the time outside is necessary. You're working in 30C with the windchill and you're working at altitude also so you get tired quite quickly," Mr Mahon said. And because it's so cold, you have to be so conscious that you weren't going to get frostbite. At a couple of stages, I had to stop because my fingers were locking with the cold and that's nearly the onset of frostbite. When they got a break in the weather they left for High Camp. They had to attach themselves to fixed safety lines for the 30 degree to 40 degree angle incline. With a short window of clement weather, they decided to go for the summit the next day. When you reach summit it's an incredible feeling. You try to stay in the moment and enjoy it and get the pictures and have a look around. But you dont really celebrate a summit until youre safely back at base camp. Once we got to Vinson Base Camp I felt an air of relief knowing now that I was as safe as I could be. And I was off the mountain. A plane brought them back to Union Glacier on December 15 and they returned to Chile on December 17. He returned home on December 22 and spent Christmas with family. He has promised his wife Michelle that he will not take on any more extreme climbing challenges. But he plans to keep up his fitness levels and compete in multiple triathlons and possibly an Iron Man. Age should not be a barrier to people pushing themselves and pursuing their dreams, he said. Researchers in Dublin have produced a report showing the benefits of a plurilingual approach in teaching Irish in primary schools, particularly children whose first language is not Irish or English. The Dublin City University (DCU) project said it promotes cultural diversity in schools by encouraging children in English-medium primary schools to draw on all of their linguistic knowledge. Ireland is a multilingual country with more than 200 languages spoken daily. Polish is the most commonly spoken outside of Irish and English. Almost 124,000 people speak Polish as their home language, which represents 16.5% of the population. Dr Aisling Ni Dhiorbhain (Brian Lawless/PA) Dr Aisling Ni Dhiorbhain and Dr Tara Concannon-Gibney, of the DCU Sealbhu Research Centre for the Learning and Teaching of Irish, compiled the report, laying out guidance for the development of a plurilingual approach to Irish teaching. Between 60% and 80% of the 291 children across five schools who took part in the project, which was funded by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaiochta (COGG), had another home language apart from English or Irish. Dr Ni Dhiorbhan said there is an increasing linguistic and cultural diversity in Irelands schools, which includes children who do not have English as their first language. These kids are coming to school with really valuable linguistic knowledge, and we wanted to look at ways to support children to use their home languages in school to affirm this linguistic and cultural diversity, she added. Were very passionate about Gaeilge as well, and we see the potential for Irish as a common second language to provide more opportunities for children to develop language learning skills, and then to use their home languages in class as well. Its emphasised to encourage children who have home languages other than Irish and English, to use their language at school. But we looked at practically, how to do that. We wanted to find a practical way to show teachers how they can support children in using all of their linguistic knowledge. All linguistic knowledge is an asset. When children come to school, a majority of children would have English as a home language, whereas when theyre learning Irish, the majority of children are learning Irish as a second language, so theyre all starting off from the beginning. It shows the potential of Irish to connect all of the other languages. Theres huge cultural advantages to learning Irish, but something that isnt recognised enough are the values of learning Irish because it is an additional language. Youre developing skills of analysing, looking at patterns. If you learn how to do that when youre learning Irish, thats transferable when learning French or Spanish or German. Its the idea, supporting the Gaeilge and also supporting the use of home languages in schools as well. Dr Concannon-Gibney added: We have a curriculum that emphasises and encourages a plurilingual approach to languages, and that has kind of been in the ether for a couple of years now, but teachers need more support in looking at the practicalities of what that actually looks like in a classroom. This project has a professional development aspect to it, so we looked at strategies that might empower teachers to try this out in classrooms. Ireland is such a unique country in the fact that we have English and Irish taught in primary school, and theyre both national languages, as well as being in a diverse society. We felt like we really needed to add to the body of knowledge that is out there. It really promotes an analytical mindset as well, which is really key in the primary school curriculum Dr Ni Dhiorbhain said children are discovering rules and patterns of different languages. The multilingual children are our best language learners. Theres such potential to support Irish. The children could see the cognitive advantages for learning Irish, she added. Dr Concannon-Gibney also said it is important to show children whose first language is not Irish or English that their home language has value in the school system. Developing that home language is important because research shows us that the more languages you have, and the more you develop them across, say reading, writing or languages, it actually becomes more and more beneficial to a child, she added. And it really promotes an analytical mindset as well, which is really key in the primary school curriculum. It is important to not just recognise the linguistic diversity that we have in our schools and classrooms and our society, but also to actively encourage it in the classroom, that children get opportunities to use their language for repertoire and using Gaeilge as the driver, was a really positive one. The family of Brazilian woman Bruna Fonseca say her absence is a brutal, unfair loss that no amount of time can heal, as the second anniversary of her killing occurs. The 28-year-old Brazilian woman was a librarian and worked as a cleaner at the Mercy University Hospital after coming to Ireland just three months before her death on January 1, 2023. The opening of an inquest into her death in September 2023 heard that she had been strangled. A man has been charged with her murder at an address on Liberty Street in Cork City in the early hours of New Years Day 2023. Ms Fonseca was a native of Formiga in Minas Gerais province, northwest of Rio de Janeiro. Her niece, Maria Luiza Fonseca, who moved to Ireland with Bruna, told the Irish Examiner that she cannot explain the pain she feels at the loss of her beloved aunt. Having now returned to Brazil, she said that life seems to have lost some of its colour and meaning without Bruna. She added: It was a brutal, unfair loss that left us with a deep void, something that no amount of time can heal. She described her as a light, a person full of love, joy and kindness, and nothing can erase that. Family and friends of Bruna comfort each other at the vigil for Bruna at the Lough in Cork in January 2023. Picture: Larry Cummins She also said that while anger and sadness can sometimes take over, she knows that Bruna would want her family to move forward with the strength that her aunt always taught them. She described her aunt as a warrior and said: She was and always will be a very special part of my family. She wasnt just an aunt, she was like an older sister, she was an example of kindness, joy, and generosity. Her presence would light up any room, and her ability to spread love and care was unmatched. She had a unique way of seeing the world, always with a smile on her face and words that soothed even the most difficult days. Her hugs had the power to make us feel safe, and her laughter was a sound that warmed the soul. "She was someone who knew how to listen carefully, offer wise advice, and be present in every moment that mattered. I miss everything about her: her conversations full of affection, the lessons she taught effortlessly, and the way she made everyone around her feel special. Her absence is felt in the small details of everyday life, in moments that were once filled with her contagious energy and the love she gave us without measure. She said that she plans to return to Ireland in the coming months and said: I really like living in Ireland, regardless of this traumatic experience. The man charged with Bruna Fonsecas murder is due to go on trial in June next year. Her niece said, however, that any trial will not make up for the loss of our Bruna. Following her death, Maria attended a vigil organised in her memory at the Lough, one of Brunas favourite places in Cork City. The Coast Guard is monitoring a large Russia-bound ship that has finally upped anchor after spending several days stationary just off the Cork coast. The Barbados-flagged Dali, a 288m-long bulk carrier, had been anchored in deep water about three to four miles southwest of Mizen Head, in waters up to 90 meters deep, since before the weekend. Russia has launched an aerial attack on Ukraine, striking the capital and other regions with multiple missiles and drones. Ukraines air force reported a ballistic missile threat at 3am local time (1am GMT), with at least two explosions heard in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was issued at 8am (6am GMT) followed by at least one explosion in the city. Missile debris fell in the Darnytskyi district of the capital with no reports of casualties or damage, the local administration said. Authorities in the north-eastern Sumy region reported strikes near the city of Shostka, where the mayor, Mykola Noha, said 12 residential buildings had been damaged as well as two educational facilities. Kyiv was among the targets, officials said (AP) He said some social infrastructure objects had been destroyed, without providing detail. The air force also reported missiles and drones targeting several other regions of Ukraine. Around half of Ukraines energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Kyivs Western allies have provided air defence systems to help Ukraine protect critical infrastructure, but Russia has sought to overwhelm its air defences with combined strikes involving large numbers of missiles and drones. Russian attacks come as uncertainty looms over the course of the nearly three-year conflict. Those who defended Azovstal and Mariupol, the Chornobyl NPP, Zmiinyi Island, and our servicemen from various frontline directions. And two civilians who were captured by the Russians in Mariupol. 189 Ukrainians are back home. 189 families are happy again. I am grateful to our pic.twitter.com/O4cya3zhZP Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) December 30, 2024 US President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office next month, has vowed to end the war casting doubt on whether vital American military support for Kyiv will continue. On Monday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will send an additional 2.5 billion dollars (1.9 billion) in weapons to Ukraine as his administration works quickly to spend all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before Mr Trump takes office. Russia has held the initiative this year as its military has steadily rammed through Ukrainian defences in the east in a series of slow but steady offensives. Palestinian health authorities say 45 patients and injured people have been evacuated for treatment outside the war-ravaged Gaza Strip. They left the European Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis early on Tuesday and travelled through the Kerem Shalom Crossing into Israel. They will receive treatment in the United Arab Emirates. The patients are accompanied by over 100 of their relatives, according to the hospital. Among them was a 10-year-old boy, Abdullah Abu Yousef, who is suffering from kidney failure. The child was accompanied by his sister after the Israeli authorities rejected his mothers application to join him. Israel says it screens those accompanying the patients for security. The boy is sick, said his mother, Abeer Abu Yousef. He requires haemodialysis three to four days a week. The Health Ministry said several thousand Palestinians in Gaza require medical treatment abroad. Israel has controlled all entry and exit points since capturing the southern city of Rafah in May. The Israeli offensive, launched after Hamas October 7 attack in 2023, has gutted the territorys healthcare system and forced most of its hospitals to close. Those that remain open are only partially functioning. From Sydney to Vladivostok to Mumbai, communities around the world have begun welcoming 2025 with spectacular light shows, embraces and exciting live performances. Countries in the South Pacific Ocean are the first to ring in the New Year, with midnight in New Zealand striking a full 18 hours before the ball drop in Times Square in New York. Conflict muted acknowledgements of the new year in places like the Middle East, Sudan and Ukraine. Other cities around the world are readying with celebrations highlighting local cultures and traditions, after a year roiled by ongoing conflict and political instability Meanwhile, in the United States, crowds of people are gathering in Times Square on Tuesday afternoon, in New York for the ball to drop Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia In Taipei, Taiwan the main celebrations took place around midnight. A spectacular fireworks display shoots out from the side of Taipei 101, which was until 2007 the tallest building in the world. Celebrations kick off early in the night when artists and performers take the stage outside Taipei City Hall, which is a block away from Taipei 101. Fireworks explode from the Taipei 101 building during the New Year's celebrations in Taipei, Taiwan, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. Picture: AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying In Japan, much of the country had shut down ahead of the nations biggest holiday, as temples and homes underwent a thorough cleaning, including swatting floor mats called tatami with big sticks. The upcoming Year of the Snake in the Asian zodiac is heralded as one of rebirth alluding to the reptiles shedding skin. Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour to celebrate the start of 2025 at Tsim Sha Tsui in Hong Kong, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. Picture: AP Photo/Chan Long Hei Stores in Japan, which observes the zodiac cycle from January 1, have been selling tiny figures of smiling snakes and other snake-themed products. Other places in Asia will start marking the Year of the Snake later, with the Lunar New Year. In South Korea, celebrations were cut back or cancelled as the country observes a period of national mourning following the crash on Sunday of a Jeju Air flight at Muan that killed 179 people. In Thailands Bangkok, shopping malls compete for crowds with live musical acts and fireworks shows. A performance by popular rap singer Lisa, the Thai member of the South Korean girl group Blackpink, was scheduled just before midnight. A fireworks display in Indonesias Jakarta featured 800 drones. People gather in the main business district on New Year's Eve in Jakarta, Indonesia on Tuesday Picture: AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana Australia Australia was the second country to welcome 2025 with fireworks at Sydney Harbour. Over one million people were expected at the harbour to count down the new year and see the colourful fireworks. British pop star Robbie Williams will be leading a singalong and Indigenous ceremonies and performances will acknowledge the lands first people. The 9pm fireworks are seen during New Year's Eve celebrations in Sydney, Australia Picture: Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP New Zealand Thousands of revellers counted down to the new year and cheered colourful fireworks launched from New Zealands tallest structure, the Sky Tower, as part of a spectacular light show. Many also climbed the citys ring of volcanic peaks for a fireworks vantage point, as well as a light display recognising Aucklands Indigenous tribes. It follows a year marked by protests over Maori rights in the nation of five million. Countries in the South Pacific Ocean are the first to ring in the New Year, with midnight in New Zealand striking a full 18 hours before the ball drop in Times Square in New York. Other cities around the world are readying with celebrations highlighting local cultures and traditions, after a year roiled by ongoing conflict and political instability. China Elsewhere, Chinese state media covered an exchange of New Years greetings between leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a reminder of the growing closeness between two leaders who face tensions with the West. Mr Xi told Mr Putin that their countries would always move forward hand-in-hand, the official Xinhua News Agency said. China has maintained ties and robust trade with Russia since the latter invaded Ukraine in 2022, helping to offset Western sanctions and attempts to isolate Mr Putin. Meanwhile, a blackout hit nearly all of Puerto Rico early on Tuesday as the US territory prepared to celebrate New Years Eve. More than 1.2 million out of 1.47 million customers were without power, according to Luma Energy, a private company that oversees electricity transmission and distribution on the island. It was not immediately clear what caused the widespread outage or when power would be restored. - Additional reporting from Reuters Berlin police said they detained a man on Tuesday who attacked and injured two people in the citys Charlottenburg neighbourhood, further jolting Germany days after a deadly Christmas market attack. Police said the attacker was a Syrian citizen with residency in Sweden. Initial findings indicate that the suspect may have signs of mental illness and that there is not indication for a terrorist motivation, police spokeswoman Jane Berndt told The Associated Press, adding that the investigation is still ongoing. A police statement called it an attempted murder. It said the man attacked two men in a supermarket and on a footpath in front of a nearby hotel shortly before noon, allegedly stabbing them with a knife that he had stolen from the supermarket. Both were taken to a hospital, and police said one was released after outpatient treatment. Berlin media outlets earlier reported that the man appeared to be randomly attacking. They reported that several passers-by pounced on the attacker and overpowered him until police arrived. Charlottenburg is a normally quiet district of the German capital. Germany is still reeling from the deadly Christmas market attack this month in which five people were killed and more than 200 were injured in the eastern city of Magdeburg. A Saudi doctor was arrested on murder charges. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has once again demonstrated why he is a formidable leader and ahead in the regions diplomatic game. When Ethiopias Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, some people thought it was a done deal. But by the time Abiy showed up in Ankara, that agreement was as good as dead. The president didnt just outsmart Abiy, he backed him into a corner and made him walk away from his own mess. Lets get this straight, Somalia didnt give away anything. What happened in Ankara wasnt a compromise, it was Abiy realising he couldnt bypass Somalias government to do any business. Ethiopias access to Somali maritime is strictly for commercial use, nothing more. No land was given, no bases were agreed, and no one touched Somalias borders. But this victory wasnt won overnight or with one meeting. President Hassan Sheikhs strategy was methodical and multi-layered. Somalia used its alliances with Eritrea and Egypt two of Ethiopias fiercest rivals to strategically isolate Addis Ababa. By establishing triangular cooperation with these nations, Somalia strengthened its position in the region. Additionally, Somalia leveraged international platforms to amplify its stance, ensuring Ethiopias actions received global scrutiny. One of the strategic moves was signing a defence pact with Turkiye, a nation that has proven itself a steadfast ally of Somalia. This agreement not only guarantees Turkiyes defence of Somali shores for a decade but also includes the establishment of Somalias naval capabilities. In exchange, Somalia granted Turkiye exploration rights to its natural resources, with a shared benefits model. Such a deal not only bolsters Somalias military strength but also ensures its sovereignty is respected. Still, some people are pushing silly stories. The claim that President Hassan Sheikh gave away the sea is just nonsense. Somalias borders are protected under international law, and the government has made it clear no one will take even an inch of Somali land or water. If anyone still doubts that, they should look at how quickly Abiys MoU disappeared. And for those saying Abiy was somehow legitimised by sitting down with President Hassan Sheikh, lets be honest. Abiy wasnt legitimised, he was put in his place. His plan to make backdoor deals with Somaliland was stopped, and Ethiopia was forced to go through the proper channels Somalias federal government. This wasnt a win for Abiy, it was a lesson. Turkiyes role in all this was key. As a country that has always stood by Somalia, Turkiye made sure the Ankara Declaration respected Somalias sovereignty. Turkiye, with its own fight against secessionists like the PKK, wasnt going to support any moves that threatened Somalias unity. On top of that, Turkiye has big interests in the Horn of Africa, so it made sure this agreement was fair and stable. Now lets talk about the maritime access. Allowing Ethiopia to use Somali maritime for trade isnt a loss, its a smart deal. Ethiopia is landlocked, with over 120 million people, which makes it a huge market. By opening our seas for commercial use, Somalia gains more trade, more jobs, and more investment, all while staying in full control of our ports and coastline. So, what does this all mean? It means Somalia is no longer weak or disorganised. Under President Hassan Sheikh, Somalia has not only protected its sovereignty and borders but is now the one setting the rules for how things work in the region. The Ankara Declaration isnt just a deal, its a statement that Somalia is ready to stand its ground and also grow its economy. For those still spreading fake news about giving away the sea or helping Abiy, its time to face the facts. Somalias seas are safe, its borders are secure, and its leadership isnt playing games anymore. The Ankara Declaration is a big win for Somalia for its sovereignty, its economy, and its future. As for Abiy, hes learned the hard way that Somalia isnt a place you can mess with anymore. In the end, President Hassan Sheikh didnt just protect Somalias seas, he made it clear that Somalia isnt a playground for anyones ambitions. By strategically using alliances, cornering Ethiopia in the international arena, and making calculated defence agreements, he showed the world that Somalia, under his leadership, is a force to be reckoned with. Abiys imaginary MoU with Somaliland was nothing more than a footnote in a much bigger story, and the world now knows that Somalia will never be anyones bargaining chip. Abdullahi H. Samoow is a commentator on political and social affairs in Somalia. He can be reached at: Abdullahisamoow@gmail.com Germany has announced plans to prolong intensified border controls past March 2025, amidst ongoing discussions regarding security and immigration in the wake of a fatal Christmas market attack and leading up to elections in February. In mid-September, Berlin implemented controls at its borders with all nine neighboring countries for a period of six months, intending to reduce irregular immigration and enhance security following a deadly knife attack that was suspected to be jihadist in nature the prior month. Since these measures were enacted, approximately 1,800 individuals have been apprehended and 40,000 have been turned away at Germanys land borders, as reported by Interior Minister Nancy Faeser in an interview with the newspaper Augsburger Allgemeine. The largest economy in Europe has maintained border controls with Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland for several years now. We require these controls until the protection of the EUs external borders is significantly improved, Ms. Faeser stated today. She noted that the number of deportations of rejected asylum seekers has increased by over 50 percent in the past two years. Germany stands out as the only country in Europe to have deported dangerous criminals to Afghanistan, asserted Ms. Faeser, pledging: We will continue this practice. Regarding Syria, from which President Bashar al-Assad was ousted this month, she remarked: If the hope for peace in Syria materializes, then many refugees will have the opportunity to return. The government led by center-left Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose coalition dissolved in November, is preparing for elections scheduled for 23 February. Issues related to security and immigration have taken center stage in the election discourse following a series of violent attacks this year. In August, three individuals lost their lives and eight sustained injuries during a stabbing incident at a street festival in the western city of Solingen. This attack was claimed by the Islamic State group, and police have detained a Syrian suspect in connection with it. On 20 December, a vehicle drove through a crowd at a Christmas market in the eastern city of Magdeburg, resulting in five fatalities and more than 200 injuries. A 50-year-old Saudi psychiatrist, who held far-right, anti-immigrant beliefs, was arrested, yet authorities have not disclosed the suspected motive for the incident. In his numerous online statements, suspect Taleb al-Abdulmohsen expressed strongly negative views towards Islam, frustration with German authorities, and advocated for far-right conspiratorial theories regarding the Islamisation of Europe. Security officials have previously indicated that domestic far-right violence poses the most significant extremist threat to Germany, including a group that was apprehended last year for allegedly plotting to attack parliament and overthrow the government. Flight data for the Embraer aircraft, which crashed last week in Kazakhstan, is being sent to Brazil for data extraction, as per a statement from the Brazilian Air Force. According to the announcement, information from the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder will be analyzed in a laboratory operated by Brazilian aeronautical investigators in the capital, Brasilia. The process will be overseen by representatives from Kazakhstan, Russia, and Azerbaijan. Subsequently, the data will be forwarded to investigators in Kazakhstan. The AZAL Embraer 190 jet crash-landed in Kazakhstan on December 25, resulting in the deaths of 38 of the 67 individuals onboard. This incident led multiple airlines to cancel flights to Russia, including Israels El Al, which announced yesterday that it would suspend flights to Moscow until the end of March. Russia has initiated a criminal investigation into the event. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has demanded that Russia take responsibility for mistakenly firing at the plane as it attempted to land at Grozny airport in southern Russia. While Russia has not confirmed that one of its air defense missiles struck the aircraft, President Vladimir Putin informed Mr. Aliyev during a phone call over the weekend that the systems were active at the time and expressed regret that the incident occurred in Russian airspace. Azerbaijans prosecutor general stated that the head of Russias Investigative Committee assured Azerbaijan: Intensive measures are being carried out to identify those responsible and hold them criminally accountable. Russia has initiated a criminal inquiry into the matter. However, it has not clarified whether it concurs that the plane was hit by one of its air defense missiles and has not publicly announced any actions concerning the identification or prosecution of any perpetrators. On Sunday, Mr. Aliyev made a rare and direct condemnation of Russia, a close ally of Azerbaijan. He remarked that the plane was hit by accident but expressed displeasure that Russia seemingly attempted to conceal the cause of the crash. Insisting that Mr. Putin take responsibility, Mr. Aliyev also accused Russia of proposing alternative explanations that clearly indicated the Russian side sought to cover up the issue. Russia stated that Grozny, located in the southern Chechen region, was under attack by Ukrainian drones when the AZAL airliner approached to land amidst thick fog. Survivors have reported hearing explosions outside the aircraft, which then diverted over 400 km across the Caspian Sea towards the Kazakh city of Aktau, where it ultimately crash-landed. The flight was en route from Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, to Grozny in Russias southern Chechen region. Kazakhstan has sent the planes black boxes to Brazil for analysis by the Aeronautical Accidents Investigation and Prevention Center, a division of the Brazilian air force. US to Organize State Funeral and Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter US President Joe Biden has announced the state funeral for Jimmy Carter will take place on 9 January, designating the day as a National Day of Mourning. Mr. Carter, who passed away yesterday at the age of 100, will receive tributes through public observances in his cherished home state of Georgia and in Washington, DC in the near future. The first president to reach the age of 100, Mr. Carter had been receiving hospice care in his hometown of Plains since February 2023. The Carter Center, his post-presidential humanitarian and pro-democracy organization, shared that he died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. While no formal announcements have been made regarding the ceremonies in Georgia, reports from The New York Times indicate that he is likely to be transported by motorcade to the state capitol in Atlanta, in line with longstanding arrangements. He will lie in repose at the Carter Center for approximately 36 hours before being flown to Washington to lie in state at the US Capitol for a similar duration. Following the customary televised funeral at Washington National Cathedral, which is granted to every US president, he will be laid to rest in Plains. Flags were lowered to half-staff across the nation as global tributes poured in celebrating the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, the longest-lived US president, who passed away at 100 years old. The Georgia native, whose remarkable journey took him from picking peanuts on his family farm to the Oval Office, was remembered with heartfelt tributes as a passionate advocate for human rights and a champion for the marginalized. The US flag was lowered to half-staff following Jimmy Carters death. First US president born in a hospital. The US Navy veteran experienced an unexpectedly lengthy post-presidency after a four-year term in the Oval Office, noted for his success in brokering peace between Israel and Egypt, but also marked by the Iran hostage crisis and challenges with an oil shortage. He faced a significant defeat to Ronald Reagan in 1980. However, in the years that followed, Mr. Carters acclaim grew due to his humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, alongside his work with his wife Rosalynn to build homes through Habitat for Humanity. In 2002, Mr. Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his decades of tireless work to find peaceful resolutions to international conflicts, advance democracy and human rights, and promote economic and social development. Jimmy Carter served as president from 1977 to 1981. As the first US president born in a hospital, he continued to teach Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist, his church in Plains, well into his 90s. He was married to Rosalynn for 77 years, a fellow Plains native who had been a part of his life for as long as he could remember. When she passed away at the age of 96 on 19 November 2023, they held the record for the longest presidential marriage in US history. Mr. Carters last public appearance was at his wifes memorial service, where he was seen in the front row in a wheelchair. Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur for the Israeli-Occupied Palestinian Territories, reacted forcefully to the complete destruction by the Israeli military of Kamal Adwan Hospital at Beit Lahia in northern Gaza and the arrest and abuse of its patients and its director. She called for a world-wide medical boycott of Israel, writing at X I urge medical professionals worldwide to pursue the severance of all ties with Israel as a concrete way to forcefully denounce Israels full destruction of the Palestinian healthcare system in Gaza, a critical tool of its ongoing genocide. She was concurring with San Francisco-based physician and author Rupa Marya . Muhammad Muhsin Watad at the Israeli newspaper Arab 48 explained that last Friday, the Israeli army stormed Kamal Adwan Hospital after hours of besieging it. They burned its facilities, mistreated those inside, including patients, the injured, and medical staff, before taking into custody several individuals and forcing others [including women] to strip in the severe cold and undergo forced evacuation, all while gunfire and tank shelling occurred in the surrounding area. Some 350 staff and patients were illegally detained by Israeli forces, though most were subsequently released. The actions were part of Israels strategy of forcibly displacing 400,000 Palestinians from northern Gaza and making it uninhabitable for them, as the occupying army systematically detonates buildings and destroys neighborhoods. The forced displacement of an occupied population is a war crime. Gaza Palestinians are huddling in tents or sleeping rough amid heavy downpours and frigid temperatures in which several babies are known to have died in recent days. Embed from Getty Images BEIT LAHIA, GAZA DECEMBER 25: Palestinians gather following the Israeli attack on the courtyard of Kamal Adwan Hospital and its surrounding buildings in Beit Lahia, Gaza on December 25, 2024. (Photo by Khalil Ramzi Alkahlut/Anadolu via Getty Images) Also on Friday, having emptied and burned the hospital, the Israelis detained its director and other medical staff. Watad at Arab 48 says that the Government Media Office in Gaza is alleging that Abu Safieh was subjected to physical and psychological abuse. He was forced to strip out of his medical coat and clothing and was used as a human shield. His children called on the international community to pressure Israel to release their father, whose fate remains unknown. He was last seen walking outside the ruined hospital toward the turret of an Israeli tank. Abu Safieh, Digital, Dream / Dreamland v3, Clip2Comic, 2024 When dissidents in other countries have faced tanks, they have been celebrated widely in US media. American mass media news for the most part have ignored Abu Safieh and his fate. Medical boycotts are not unprecedented. Physicians in the allied victor states of WW I boycotted the German scientific and medical establishment on the grounds that German researchers and physicians were guilty of praising German militarism and denying German war guilt. They even founded alternative associations, such as the one to fight tuberculosis set up in Berlin, and held international congresses only in French and English, excluding German-speakers. Medical boycotts of Israel have also been proposed previously, as with the 2007 call of some British physicians for non-cooperation with the Israeli Medical Association for failing to uphold ethical standards in their treatment of Palestinians in the Occupied Territories. They urged that the IMA be kicked out of the World Medical Association. As I have noted before, the Rome Statute underpinning the International Criminal Court, which went into effect in 2002, lists among War Crimes ix) Intentionally directing attacks against buildings dedicated to religion, education, art, science or charitable purposes, historic monuments, hospitals and places where the sick and wounded are collected, provided they are not military objectives. The Israeli armys allegations that hospitals in Gaza are armed camps and weapons depots is ridiculous, and such assertions have been disproven whenever newspapers of record such as the Washington Post have investigated them. I have pointed out that Axis powers behaved in much the same way as the Israelis and that attempts were made to try the responsible officers at Nuremberg: Japanese soldiers commanded by General General Tomoyuki Yamashita then invaded Singapore in February 1942. They advanced inland. One of their targets was the British Military Hospital, now called the Alexandra Hospital. The number of its patients had swollen to more than 900, though it was constructed for a maximum of 500 beds. The Japanese trained artillery fire on the hospital on February 14 and by the afternoon of that day their troops were approaching the hospital. A British officers attempt to show them his Red Cross armband as a bona fide that he was medical personnel was ignored by the Japanese, who fired at him but missed. The Japanese invaded the hospital. They indiscriminately fired at the people they found there, but arrested and ultimately executed others. Some of the prisoners were killed when Japan abruptly began shelling the compound again. It was a massacre. After the war, prosecutors wanted to bring Japanese commanders up on charges at Nuremberg for the hospital massacre. They could not, however, identify the individuals responsible. There is no doubt that if those Japanese officers had been fingered, they would have been executed. I dont think, in contrast, it would be hard to identify the Israeli officers responsible for the destruction of the Kamal Adwan hospital or the attacks on many other hospitals in Gaza. Later on, the 4th Geneva Convention of 1949, article 18, would specify that: Civilian hospitals organized to give care to the wounded and sick, the infirm and maternity cases, may in no circumstances be the object of attack, but shall at all times be respected and protected by the Parties to the conflict. ( Middle East Monitor ) Over the past 14 months, I have received hundreds of messages from family members throughout the Gaza Strip. The nature of the messages often conveyed a sense of urgency and panic but, at times, contentment in Gods will. Some of those who wrote these notes have been killed in Israeli strikes, like my sister, Dr Soma Baroud; others lost children, siblings, cousins, neighbours and friends. It may seem strange that none of those who communicated with me throughout the war has ever questioned their faith and have often, if not always, begun their messages by checking on me and my children. The samples of the messages below have been edited for length and clarity. Ibrahim: How are you? We are all fine. We had to leave Shati (refugee camp). The Israelis arrived at the camp yesterday. Our whole neighbourhood has been destroyed. Our home, too, was destroyed. Alhamdulillah praise be to God. Soma: How are you? And how are the kids? Times like these make me realise that no material wealth matters. Only the love of ones family and community matter most. We had to flee Qarara (east of Khan Yunis, in southern Gaza); the boys fled further south, and I am in Deir Al-Balah with my daughter and grandson. I dont know what happened to H (her husband). The army bulldozers began destroying the neighbourhood while we were still inside. We ran away in the middle of the night. Aesha: E (her husband) was killed on the first day of the invasion. A (her son) disappeared after he learned that his father was killed. He said he wanted to avenge his father. I am worried. I dont know what to do. Salwa: Cousin, Aeshas son, A, was killed (he was 19). He was fighting in Jabaliya. She is somewhere in Rafah with her surviving kids. Her newborn has a congenital heart defect. Do you know of any charity that can help her? She lives in a tent without food or water. Ibrahim: We escaped to Al-Shifa (hospital in Gaza City). Then, the Israelis invaded. They took all the men outside and had us stand in line. They spared me. I dont know why. All the men were executed. Nassers son (his nephew) was killed in front of me. We are still trapped at Al-Shifa. Soma: My husband was killed, brother. That poor soul had no chance. His illness had prevented him from running away on time. Someone says he saw his body after he was shot by a drone. He was hit in the head. But when we went back to the place, we couldnt find him. There was a massive heap of rubble and garbage. We dug and dug day and night, to no avail. I just want to give him a proper burial. Aesha: Did Salwa message you about the charity? My baby is dying. I named her Wafa after her auntie (26, who was killed in the first few weeks of the war along with her son Zaid, five, and husband, Mohammed, in Gaza City). She can barely breathe. Some people are allowed to leave Gaza through Rafah. They say the UAE accepts some of the wounded and sick. Please help me. Walid: Have you heard anything about the ceasefire? We ran away back to the centre of Gaza after we were forced to flee south. They (the Israeli army) said, Go to the safe zones. Then, they killed the displaced inside their tents. I saw my neighbours burning alive. I am too old (he is 75). Please tell me that the war is about to end. Gaza Letters, Digital, ChatGPt, 2024 Ibrahim: How are you, cousin? I just wanted to tell you that Nasser (his brother) was killed. He was standing in line waiting for a loaf of bread in Zeitoun. After the martyrdom of his sons, he became responsible for the grandchildren as well. They (the Israelis) bombed the crowd as they waited for the aid trucks. The explosion severed his arm. He bled to death. Soma: I was in Nuseirat when the massacre happened (278 people were killed and over 800 wounded on 8 June). I walked through the area, not knowing the extent of the bloodbath. I was on my way back to Qarara to check on the kids. Bodies were strewn everywhere. They were mostly mutilated, though some were still groaning, desperately grasping onto life. I wanted to help, but I could do nothing. I kept walking from one body to the next, holding hands and looking into dying eyes. I worked in the emergency room for many years. But at that moment, I felt helpless. I felt that I, too, had died on that day. (Dr Soma was killed in an Israeli strike targeting her car on 9 October. She had just left the hospital, where she worked, to check on her sons.) Ibrahim: My condolences, cousin, for the martyrdom of your sister. She will always remain the pride of our family. Aesha: Wafa died this morning in our tent in Al-Musawi. There was no medicine. No food. No milk. My only solace is that she is now an angel in Paradise. Walid: How are you, cousin? We are okay. We lost everything, but we are still standing. Alhamdulillah. Do you know when the war will be over? Maybe another week or two? I am just too old and so, so tired. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. Via Middle East Monitor VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 31, 2024 / Mako Mining Corp. ("Mako") (TSXV:MKO) (OTCQX:MAKOF) is pleased to announce the entering into of a non-binding letter of intent to acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of EG Acquisition LLC ("EGA"), a recently created private corporation controlled by Mako's controlling shareholder, Wexford Capital LP ("Wexford"), established solely to acquire the Moss gold mine located in the historic Oatman District in Arizona (the "Proposed Transaction"). It is anticipated that EGA will complete the acquisition of the Moss gold mine on December 31st, 2024 through its acquisition of 100% of the common shares of Golden Vertex Corp. ("GVC") which holds direct ownership of the Moss gold mine. Each of EGA and GVC will become wholly owned subsidiaries of Mako as a result of the Proposed Transaction. The purchase price for the Proposed Transaction is expected to be in the range of US$ 4.9 million up to US$ 6.4 million if certain royalties are extinguished, all payable in cash. The Proposed Transaction is expected to close by February 2025. EGAs acquisition of GVC is pursuant to a court-approved sale process under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act and Chapter 15 of Title 11 of the United States Code (collectively the "Bankruptcy Process"), the terms of which included, among other things, the elimination of over US$ 60 million of liabilities associated with the Moss mine owed by GVC and its former parent. Prior to the Bankruptcy Process, there were several royalties and a silver stream on the Moss mine which entitled the silver stream holder to 100% of the payable silver over the life of the mine. The silver stream was eliminated upon EGA's acquisition of GVC. The two remaining material royalties (a net smelter return royalty of 3% and 1% respectively) are being disputed by GVC and its former parent in Arizona through the Chapter 15 bankruptcy process. If these royalties are vested away, Mako, through its then wholly-owned subsidiary EGA has agreed to pay up to an additional US$ 1.5 million to the creditors. Mako expects the status of these royalties to be determined in the first half of 2025. The Proposed Transaction will allow Mako to add a producing asset located in a top tier jurisdiction funded solely out of cash flow generated from the last quarter of Mako's current mining operations. The Moss mine has been producing gold throughout the Bankruptcy Process through its beneficiation facilities. Mining was temporarily suspended at the beginning of the Bankruptcy Process and Mako plans to restart mining operations upon completion of the Proposed Transaction once it has had an opportunity to optimize the mine plan and debottleneck the crushing plant. This is expected to be achieved within a few months of closing of the Proposed Transaction. Mako currently operates the high-grade San Albino Mine in northern Nicaragua and owns the Eagle Mountain project in Guyana. Over the last quarter, even after an extensive drill program at both properties, the cash and gold in sales receivables balance in Mako has increased by over US$ 6 million to nearly US$ 13 million at year end. In connection with the Proposed Transaction, Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company has pre-arranged the terms and conditions of a bonding facility for Mako in connection with the completion of the Proposed Transaction which provides that Trisura will release approximately US$ 1.5 million of the US$ 3.0 million currently held as collateral for various environmental reclamation bonds at the Moss mine, the result of which effectively reduces Mako's net cash acquisition cost. In connection with the bonding facility, Mako has agreed to execute an indemnity in favor Trisura having a value of approximately US$ 12 million, which shall terminate in the event Mako does not complete the Proposed Transaction. For more details about the Proposed Transaction see below. The Moss gold mine is an open pit heap leach operation located in the historic Oatman District in western Arizona. The operation is currently at limited capacity during the Bankruptcy Process while heap leaching continues to operate while producing minor amounts of gold and silver. All operating permits are in good standing. Moss Mine - Historical Gold Production and Revenues Source: Elevation Gold Website https://elevationgold.com/investors/financial-statements/ Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer of Mako, commented: "the acquisition of the producing Moss gold mine in Arizona, after the elimination of over US$ 60 million of existing liabilities associated with the mine, for a base purchase price of US$ 4.9 million, further reduced by US$ 1.5 million through the release of certain collateral, funded out of a fraction of this quarter's corporate cash generation, is a testament to the powerful platform Mako has at its disposal. Combining the company's experience in building and operating small and medium scale mines in the Americas, with the bankruptcy and distressed investing expertise of the controlling shareholder, with the profitability and pipeline that exists within our current portfolio, puts Mako into a very select class of companies. The Moss mine is central to the large scale historic Oatman Mining district, and we will be looking to expand our opportunities, especially with the new mining friendly United States administration about to take office next month." Proposed Transaction Terms Under the terms of the non-binding letter of intent, it is proposed that Mako will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of EGA for a total consideration value of US$ 4.9 million. Pursuant to the terms of the Bankruptcy Process, subject to the extinguishment of the 1% net smelter return royalty at the Moss mine held by affiliates of Sandstorm Gold Ltd., EGA will pay the former parent of GVC an additional US$ 0.5 million, and subject to the extinguishment of the 3% net smelter return royalty at the Moss mine held by Patriot Gold Corporation, EGA will pay the former parent of GVC an additional US$ 1.0 million, for total consideration of up to US$ 6.4 million payable in cash. Mako is acquiring the shares of EGA at the approximate cost basis of EGA's acquisition of GVC. If the Proposed Transaction is completed, Mako has agreed to reimburse the owners of EGA for any operational costs from December 31st, 2024. Unless the Proposed Transaction is cancelled, all gold and silver produced until the Proposed Transaction is complete, will be to the credit of Mako. EGA has agreed to deal exclusively and in good faith with Mako regarding the Proposed Transaction until March 31st, 2025. Definitive Agreement and Voting and Support Agreements Following execution of this letter, the parties will in good faith negotiate a definitive agreement to effect the Transaction (the "Definitive Agreement") incorporating terms and provisions as are customary for transactions of this nature, as well as customary voting support and lock-up agreements with the senior officers, directors and any significant shareholder of EGA (the "Voting and Support Agreements") with Mako on terms satisfactory to Mako pursuant to which, among other things, they will agree to vote the EGA shares that they own or over which they have control or direction in favor of the Transaction and against any other transaction that would prevent, delay or interfere in any way with the Transaction, not to solicit other transactions and otherwise support the Transaction, and not sell, dispose of or otherwise encumber any of their EGA shares (including any EGA shares under outstanding options, warrants or other convertible securities). Such Voting and Support Agreement shall be terminable by the shareholder in the event that the Definitive Agreement between Mako and EGA is validly terminated in accordance with its terms. In the Definitive Agreement, each of Mako and EGA will make such representations and warranties as are customary in transactions of this nature including, without limitation, representations as to the power, authority and standing of such parties to engage in the Proposed Transaction; the absence of material pending or threatened litigation and liabilities (contingent or otherwise) affecting the business of GVC or Mako in relation to the Proposed Transaction; the absence of any encumbrances of any kind and nature relating to the outstanding shares of EGA; the absence of any material default by the parties under any material contracts; and will also provide covenants and restrictions customary for transactions of this nature, including, without limitation, on the conduct of business by EGA during the period preceding the completion of the Proposed Transaction. The obligations of the parties to complete the Proposed Transaction in accordance with the Definitive Agreement will be subject to specified conditions precedent including, but not limited to, the completion of satisfactory due diligence by Mako, the formal approval of the definitive agreement and all ancillary matters related to the Proposed Transaction by Mako's Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Special Committee and the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). No approval by Mako's shareholders is expected to be required for the Proposed Transaction. The Proposed Transaction is expected to close by February 2025. Qualified Persons John Rust, SME, is a "qualified person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release on behalf of Mako. Mr. Rust has verified the data disclosed in this news release based on a review of the source noted and no limitations were imposed on his verifications process. Related Party Transaction and Formation of Special Committee As EGA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mako's controlling shareholder, Wexford,the Proposed Transaction is a related party transaction for Mako within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101- Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). As a result, the Board of Directors of Mako has appointed a special committee (the "Special Committee") to assist in the evaluation, negotiation and supervision of all matters relating to the Proposed Transaction and to consider and make recommendations to the Board. The Proposed Transaction will not have any impact on the percentage of securities of Mako beneficially owned or controlled by Wexford Capital LP.Pursuant to Section 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, Mako is exempt from obtaining a formal valuation and minority approval of its shareholders for the Proposed Transaction on the basis that the fair market value of the Proposed Transaction is below 25% of Mako's market capitalization as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. About Mako Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development and exploration company. The Company operates the high-grade San Albino gold mine in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, which ranks as one of the highest-grade open pit gold mines globally. Mako's primary objective is to operate San Albino profitably and fund exploration of prospective targets on its district-scale land package. The Company also owns 100% of the gold project Eagle Mountain in Guyana, South America. For further information about Mako, please contact Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer, at (917) 558-5289 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or visit our website at www.makominingcorp.com and our profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "outlook", "forecasts", "projection", "prospects", "strategy", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or terminology which states that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will", "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, the proposed non-binding terms and completion of the Proposed Transaction and expected customary terms to be included in the Definitive Agreement; the strengths, characteristics and expected benefits associated with the Proposed Transaction; obtaining all required recommendations of the Special Committee and approvals of the Mako Board and TSXV to complete the Proposed Transaction; Mako's plans to restart mining operations at the Moss mine upon completion of the Proposed Transaction once it has had an opportunity to optimize the mine plan and debottleneck the crushing plant expected to be achieved within a few months of closing of the Proposed Transaction; potential adjustments to the base US$4.9 million purchase price, increasing the purchase price under the Proposed Transaction by between US$0.5 and US$1 million; expectations regarding the timing for the Arizona court's ruling on the status of the two outstanding net smelter royalties at the Moss mine; and expectations regarding Mako's future business activities and operating performance. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent Mako's expectations, estimates and projections regarding possible future events or circumstances. The forward-looking information included in this news release is based on Mako's opinions, estimates and assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management currently believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is also based upon a number of assumptions, including the successful completion of due diligence by Mako, the negotiation and entering into of a Definitive Agreement and related ancillary documentation to complete the Proposed Transaction; the anticipated treatment of the outstanding net smelter return royalties currently in place at the Moss mine; receipt of all required approvals, including all required recommendations of the Special Committee and approvals of the Board of Mako and all regulatory approvals including the approval of TSXV, in a timely manner; assumptions in respect of current and future market conditions and the execution of Mako's business strategy; that operations at Mako's properties will continue without interruption; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated, intended or implied. Despite a careful process to prepare and review the forward-looking information, there can be no assurance that the underlying opinions, estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information is also subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, failure to receive all required approvals, including regulatory and other approvals necessary to effect the Proposed Transaction; failure to enter into the Definitive Agreement; the net smelter royalties not being vested away upon determination of the Arizona court; that Mako and its shareholders will not realize the anticipated benefits following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, and other risks related to Mako and its business included in documents filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although Mako has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known or that they presently believe are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents Mako's expectations as of the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. Mako disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements. Highlights: Indicated resources increased by 62% to 11.3 Mt from 6.9 Mt: Indicated resources now grade 1.23% copper (Cu), 1.27% zinc (Zn), 0.46 g/t gold (Au) and 31.9 g/t silver (Ag) or 2.13% copper equivalent (CuEq) (see Note 1 below) Indicated resources contain 307.9 million pounds (Mlbs) Cu, 316.9 Mlbs Zn, 168.2 thousand ounces (koz) Au and 11.6 million ounces (Moz) Ag or 532.3 Mlbs of CuEq Inferred resources increased by 63% to 7.2 Mt from 4.4 Mt: Inferred resources now grade 1.56% Cu, 0.17% Zn, 0.87 g/t Au and 7.4 g/t Ag or 2.21% CuEq Inferred resources contain 246.0 Mlbs Cu, 27.3 Mlbs Zn, 200.8 koz Au and 1.7 Moz Ag or 348.8 Mlbs of CuEq. Significant Increase in Total Contained Metal: 38% increase in contained Cu, 15% increase in contained Zn, 29% increase in contained Au and 22% increase in contained Ag relative to the 2018 Resource estimate December 30, 2024 / London, Ontario TheNewswire - Abitibi Metals Corp. (CSE:AMQ) (OTCQB:AMQFF) (FSE:FW0) (Abitibi or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has filed a National Instrument ("NI") 43-101 Technical Report dated effective November 1, 2024 (the "Technical Report") on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The Technical Report is with respect to the Updated Resource Estimation (Updated Resource) on its B26 Polymetallic Deposit (the B26 Property and B26 Deposit) in Quebec, Canada, titled, Technical Report NI 43-101 Resource Estimation Update - Project B26, Quebec - Abitibi Metals Corp. The Report complies with all disclosure requirements for Mineral Resources as set out in the NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (2016). The classification of the Mineral Resources is consistent with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards (2014 CIM Definitions). The Mineral Resource estimate has been prepared in conformity with the CIM Estimation of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserves Best Practices Guidelines (2019). Technical Report results were previously announced in the Companys news release dated November 13, 2024. SGS Canada Inc. is responsible for the Technical Report. The Qualified Persons ("QPs"), as defined under NI 43-101, are Yann Camus, P.Eng., and Olivier Vadnais-Leblanc, P.Geo. The B26 Property, located 5 kilometers south of the Selbaie mine, is approximately 170 km north of the Horne Smelter and 140 km north-northwest of the city of Amos in Abitibi. The B26 Property consists of 66 contiguous mining claims covering an area of 3,328.51 hectares. On November 15, 2023, the Company entered into an option agreement on the B26 Deposit to earn 80% over 7 years from SOQUEM Inc. (see news release dated November 16, 2023). Jonathon Deluce, CEO of Abitibi, remarked, We are excited to present the results of our updated resource estimate with the filing of the 2024 Technical Report for the B26 Deposit. This updated resource underscores our commitment to growth, reflecting a substantial 38% increase in contained copper, 15% in zinc, 29% in gold, and 22% in silver compared to the 2018 estimate, culminating in a total of 881 million pounds of contained copper equivalent. These achievements highlight the significant progress made in just one year of drilling, demonstrating our teams ability to deliver resource expansion and value creation." Mr. Deluce continued: 2024 was truly a transformational year for Abitibi. Since acquiring B26, we have raised $21.5 million, drilled approximately 30,000 metres, and released this resource, which incorporates only the first 13,500 metres. With over 20,000 metres of drilling fully funded for 2025, our next resource update will follow more than 36,000 metres of total drilling since this maiden one. We look forward to building on the successes of the past year as we continue to develop this world-class deposit. About Abitibi Metals Corp: Abitibi Metals Corp. is a Quebec-focused mineral acquisition and exploration company focused on the development of quality base and precious metal properties that are drill-ready with high-upside and expansion potential. Abitibis portfolio of strategic properties provides target-rich diversification and includes the option to earn 80% of the high-grade B26 Polymetallic Deposit, which hosts a resource estimate of 11.3MT @ 2.13% Cu Eq (Ind) & 7.2MT @ 2.21% Cu Eq (Inf), and the Beschefer Gold Project, where historical drilling has identified 4 historical intercepts with a metal factor of over 100 g/t gold highlighted by 55.63 g/t gold over 5.57 metres and 13.07 g/t gold over 8.75 metres amongst four modeled zones. About SOQUEM SOQUEM, a subsidiary of Investissement Quebec, is dedicated to promoting the exploration, discovery and development of mining properties in Quebec. SOQUEM also contributes to maintaining strong local economies. Proud partner and ambassador for the development of Quebecs mineral wealth, SOQUEM relies on innovation, research and strategic minerals to be well-positioned for the future. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Jonathon Deluce, Chief Executive Officer For more information, please call 226-271-5170, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit https://www.abitibimetals.com. The Company also maintains an active presence on various social media platforms to keep stakeholders and the general public informed and encourages shareholders and interested parties to follow and engage with the Company through the following channels to stay updated with the latest news, industry insights, and corporate announcements: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AbitibiMetals Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Note 1: Copper equivalent values calculated using metal prices of $4.00/lb Cu, $1.50/lb Zn, $20.00/ounce Ag and $1,800/ounce Au. Recovery factors were applied according to SGS CACGS-P2017-047 metallurgical test: 98.3% for copper, 90% for gold, 96.1% for zinc, 72.1% for silver. Forward-looking statement This news release contains certain statements, which may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information involves statements that are not based on historical information but rather relate to future operations, strategies, financial results or other developments on the B26 Project or otherwise. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions, which are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Companys control and many of which, regarding future business decisions, are subject to change. These uncertainties and contingencies can affect actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on the Companys behalf. Although Abitibi has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. All factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on Abitibis forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as expects, estimates, anticipates, or variations of such words and phrases (including negative and grammatical variations) or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, might or occur. Mineral exploration and development are highly speculative and are characterized by a number of significant inherent risks, which may result in the inability of the Company to successfully develop current or proposed projects for commercial, technical, political, regulatory or financial reasons, or if successfully developed, may not remain economically viable for their mine life owing to any of the foregoing reasons, among others. There is no assurance that the Company will be successful in achieving commercial mineral production and the likelihood of success must be considered in light of the stage of operations. VANCOUVER, BC December 31, 2024 TheNewswire - Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) (Giant Mining or the Company) is pleased to announce that further to its news releases dated December 4th and 5th, 2024, the Company has closed the first tranche of its non-brokered private placement (the NBPP) comprised of 25,650,000 units (the Units) in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.10 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,565,000. Each Unit consists of one common share (each, a Share) and one transferable Share purchase warrant (each, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Share of the Company at a price of $0.25 per share for a period of 12 months from the date of issuance. The Warrants have an acceleration provision, which provides that in the event that after four months and one day after the Warrants are issued, the weighted average daily trading price of the Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange, or such other market as the Shares may trade from time to time, is or exceeds $0.40 for any five (5) consecutive trading days, the Company may provide notice, whether by written notice or the issuance of a news release (the Acceleration Notice) to the Warrant holder that the expiry date of the Warrants has been accelerated and that Warrants not exercised within 30 days of the date of the Acceleration Notice will expire 30 days from the date of the Acceleration Notice. The Company anticipates closing a second and final tranche of the NBPP in short order. As further announced on December 19th, 2024, the Company also completed a listed issuer financing exemption (the LIFE Offering) non-brokered private placement consisting of 1,371,040 Shares at a price of $0.12 per Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $164,524.80. In combination, the Company has cumulatively raised gross proceeds of $2,729,524.80. The LIFE Offering was completed pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions. Accordingly, the Shares issued in the LIFE Offering are not subject to a statutory hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document related to the LIFE Offering, which can be accessed under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at www.giantminingcorp.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document prior to making any investment decisions. The securities issued pursuant to the NBPP and LIFE Offering have not, nor will they be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons in the absence of U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from the U.S. registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Certain insiders of Giant Mining purchased an aggregate of 2,750,000 Units in the NBPP (the Insider Participation). The Insider Participation is exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101) by virtue of the exemptions contained in Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 based on that the fair market value of such Insider Participation does not exceed 25% of Giant Minings market capitalization. In connection with the NBPP, the Company paid an aggregate of $60,800 in cash finders' fees and issued an aggregate of 608,000 Finders' Warrants. The Finders' Warrants are non-transferable and have the same terms as the Warrants forming part of the Units. The Units including the Shares, Warrants and Finders' Warrants issued as part of the NBPP are subject to a hold period until May 1, 2025, pursuant to applicable securities legislation. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the NBPP and LIFE Offering on its core drilling program, updating 43-101 report and general working capital. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. On Behalf of the Board of Giant Mining Corp. David Greenway David C. Greenway President & CEO For further information, please contact: E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P: 1 (604) 790-7291 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS www.giantminingcorp.com LIKE AND FOLLOW DOWNLOAD INVESTOR INFORMATION Click Here Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain forwardlooking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forwardlooking statements are based on the Companys current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forwardlooking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Eminent Gold Corp. (TSXV: EMNT) (OTCQB: EMGDF) ("the Company" or "Eminent") is pleased to provide an update on drilling progress at the Hot Springs Range Project in Nevada (see Figure 1 for location), along with key 2024 achievements marking a year of strategic advancements and substantial progress. Eminent has completed the first core hole of the maiden drill program at the Otis target within the Hot Springs Range Project ("HSRP") to an approximate depth of 500 meters. The drilling objective is to test the thesis that HSRP is a direct analogue to the prolific Getchell Trend (~50-million-ounce gold endowment1) 15 km across the Eden Valley in northcentral Nevada (Figure 2). Eminent is testing the hypothesis that the Eden Valley fault is an extension of the Getchell fault, which intersects the nearby Turquoise Ridge deposit1 (Figure 2), where 7.4 million ounces of gold have been produced at an average gold grade of 16.9 grams per tonne (g/t)2. The host rock being tested at HSRP is the Home Ranch Terrane, consisting of similar but slightly older rocks than those at Turquoise Ridge3, which consist of a strongly deformed sequence of basalt and andesite volcanics intercalated with strongly deformed limestone. Phase 1 specifically targets the intersection of the steeply dipping NE-oriented feeder faults near their convergence with both thrust faults and the Eden Valley fault within the Home Ranch Terrane (see Figure 3). Visual inspection of the drill core has revealed extensive alteration in the volcanic-dominated portion of the Home Ranch Terrane. The alteration consists of strong hematite, clay gouge, and silicification in the Home Ranch Terrane volcanic host rocks and adjoining deformed limestone (Figure 4). Most of the strong hematite alteration and clay gouge occurs in faulted volcanic rocks, whereas the dominant alteration in the limestone is silicification. Observations indicate that the first hole was parallel to one of the NE feeder faults, as indicated in Eminent's Controlled Source Audio Frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) model8, beneath a late Tertiary post-mineral basalt and a less deformed Permian sandstone (Figures 3 and 4). Assays from the first hole are pending and expected in January. The information obtained from this core provides a clear path for the second drillhole, which will target the intersection of NE faults with the NW Eden Valley fault as well as the thrust fault bounding the lower contact of the Home Ranch Terrane. Dan McCoy, Chief Geologist and Director commented: "The Hot Spring Range Project has never been drilled previously and represents a great opportunity to make a world-class discovery in Nevada due to its proximity to the 50 million-ounce Getchell Trend, similar host rocks, comparable geochemistry, and similar structural architecture as revealed by CSAMT geophysics and geologic mapping. We are very encouraged by the amount and intensity of alteration noted in the first drillhole and look forward to starting our second hole in early to mid-January." Key 2024 Milestones: Successfully raised $2.4 million, advancing key strategic initiatives. Acquired the Celts project within the Walker Lane Trend, a direct analogue to the nearby AngloGold Ashanti Silicon project, having a total gold resource of 4.2 million ounces 5 . . Launched the maiden drill program at the Hot Springs Range Project. Initiated the permitting process for the Gilbert South project within the Walker Lane Trend. Looking Ahead: Eminent is planning to drill all three of its key projects: HSRP, Gilbert South, and Celts in 2025 subject to additional financing. This plan represents our dedication to our portfolio approach for a new world-class gold discovery in Nevada defined through new concepts and maiden drill programs. Paul Sun, President and CEO of the Company commented: "This is an exciting time for the Company and our shareholders as we await the initial results of the first hole at Hot Springs Range. The target is significant; success could range from confirming structures to finding trace gold or significant gold intercepts. Although we did not cross the main structure, which will be drilled in our next hole, we did intersect key faults feeding off the structure and observed great alteration and the presence of fluids in the rock. We are preparing for a very active 2025, with plans to finance and drill the other two projects in the Company's portfolio. We are also excited to start expanding our visibility to investors through our partnership with Spark Newswire." The Company is pleased to announce it has entered into a marketing consulting services agreement (the "Spark Agreement") with Spark Newswire Inc. ("Spark") pursuant to which, among other things, Spark is to provide certain promotional services to the Company in accordance with Policy 3.4 - Investor Relations, Promotional and Market-Making Activities (the "Policy") of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). Spark's engagement is for an initial term of one month with the option for another month at the same monthly budget amount and will commence in January, 2024 (the "Initial Term"). Following the Initial Term, the Spark Agreement will automatically renew in one-month increments until cancelled with a written notice of seven days in accordance with its terms. During the Initial Term, the Company shall provide Spark with an active monthly budget of US$100,000. Following the Initial Term, the Company may elect to continue with an active monthly budget or switch to a maintenance monthly budget of US$50,000 that provides for reduced services. Spark, which operates out of Vancouver, British Columbia, provides consulting and capital market advisory services to public companies. Through Spark's engagement, the Company hopes to increase investor engagement and create more awareness for the Company. The appointment of Spark is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company has approved the grant of 1,350,000 incentive stock options to directors, officers, and consultants of the Company. The options vest 1/3 each six months following the grant date and are exercisable at a price of $0.45 for a period of 5 years. All scientific and technical information in this news release has been prepared by, or approved by Michael Dufresne, PGeo. Mr. Dufresne is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Figure 1. Eminent Project Location Map Figure 2. Location Map of HSRP project relative to the Getchell Trend. Figure 3. Plan map of the Otis target showing the Mississipian limestone and volcanics of the Home Ranch Terrane, feeder faults and thrust faults7, area of elevated gold and arsenic in soils1, drill hole HSC002, and the cross section seen in Figure 4. Figure 4. Drill section showing lithology and alteration of Eminent's first HSRP drillhole. Location of faults and lithology away from drillhole is interpreted from CSAMT geophysics. Reference 43-101 1. www.s25.q4cdn.com/322814910/files/doc_downloads/operations/ngm/Turquoise-Ridge-Technical-Report-March2024.pdf 2. www.barrick.com/English/operations/nevada-gold-mines/default.aspx 3. www.nbmg.unr.edu/staff/pdfs/CassinerioMuntean_TurqRidge_GSN2011.pdf 4. www.reports.anglogoldashanti.com/23/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AGA-RR23.pdf 5. Nevada Gold Mines. (2021, May 20). Investor Day Presentation. Barrick Gold Corporation. 6. Lane, T., Harvey, T., Moritz, R., Samari, H., & Breckenridge, L. (2021). Preliminary Economic Assessment NI 43-101 Technical Report Granite Creek Mine Project Humboldt County, Nevada, USA. Global Resource Engineering Ltd. 7. Jones, A.E. (1997): Geologic map of the Hot Spring Peak quadrangle and the southeastern part of the Little Poverty quadrangle, Nevada, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, scale 1:24,000 8. www.eminentgoldcorp.com/site/assets/files/5967/hotspringsrange-43-10120220808-final.pdf ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Sun CEO & Director About Eminent Gold Eminent Gold is a gold exploration company focused on creating shareholder value through the exploration and discovery of world-class gold deposits in Nevada. Its multidisciplinary team has had multiple successes in gold discoveries and brings expertise and new ideas to the Great Basin. The Company's exploration assets in the Great Basin include: Hot Springs Range, Gilbert South and Celts. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements made in this news release include the anticipated completion of the private placement and the use of proceeds from the private placement. Although Eminent Gold Corp. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, including the assumption that records and reports of historical work are accurate and correct, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward, to maintain its mineral tenures and concessions in good standing, to explore and develop the Company's projects or its other projects, to repay its debt and for general working capital purposes; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associates with mineral exploration and mining operations, future prices of gold, silver and other metals, changes in general economic conditions, accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates, the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the Company's projects and if obtained, to obtain such permits and consents in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the projects; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; and changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, aboriginal title claims and rights to consultation and accommodation, dependence on key management personnel and general competition in the mining industry. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. New York beefs up security measures for New Year holiday Xinhua) 08:49, December 31, 2024 NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- New York State Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday announced increased security measures statewide to ensure public safety during holiday celebrations. The measures include increased staffing in collaboration with the State Police, the New York National Guard, and other agencies and enhanced security at airports, bridges, tunnels, and public transportation systems. "As we gather in New York City to celebrate the start of a new year, I've directed our State agencies to take all necessary steps to ensure that New Yorkers and visitors can celebrate safely and peacefully," Hochul said in a statement. "Public safety is my top priority, and I am committed to using every tool at our disposal to keep you safe." To prevent potential terrorist attacks, New York State Office of Counter-Terrorism (OCT) has assessed more than 200 infrastructure places where people congregate, including malls, universities, airports and more. The announcement especially underlined out that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), responsible for public transit in New York City, has stepped up patrols and surveillance to bolster security. In the past week, there have been several crimes in New York City's subway system, including a man who set fire to a sleeping female passenger and a brawl during a robbery attempt that left one man dead. The series of incidents raised more concerns about public transportation safety in the city. Hochul urged people to be safe and mindful of their surroundings when attending public events during the holiday, according to the announcement. Large-scale celebrations are scheduled in New York City on Tuesday with a large number of tourists and visitors pouring into the city. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) December 31, 2024 - TheNewswire - Vancouver, BC - Element79 Gold Corp. (CSE: ELEM, FSE: 7YS0, OTC: ELMGF) ("Element79 Gold" or "the Company") is pleased to share a summary of progress on Federal-level Peruvian small scale mining Formalization, a final 2024 update on its negotiations relative to renewing its surface access rights at its past-producing Lucero mine in Chachas, Arequipa, Peru and a glance at what to expect into 2025 with this project. Quick Review of Peru ASM Formalization By means of a simplified explanation, in Peru, the mineral rights in the country are held by the federal government and they are leased out to third parties on an annual basis. Separately, as a generalization, surface rights in and around communities are held by those communities for their use, distribution and development as the local community sees fit. Over the past several years, there has been a Federal-level initiative to Formalize ~80,000 REINFO permit holders (Translation: Artisanal small-scale production or processing). The Federal objective is to bring greater order, control, working and operating standards, fair taxation and infrastructure development for the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) segment of the Peruvian mining industry. REINFO permit holders that Formalize will be allowed to keep operating. The Federal deadline for Formalization has shifted several times, with the most recently planned date being December 31, 2024. Without a final formal structure to enact this change, the Federal Government recently pushed this Formalization date out to June 30, 2025. Review of Lucero Mine Social Since Acquisition Lucero is a past producing mine project (1989-2005) encompassing 10,813 hectares of contiguous land located in Chachas, Arequipa, Peru. Element79 Gold Corp completed a full corporate acquisition of Calipuy Resources Ltd., a private company that held the mineral rights to the Lucero project, as well as a small-scale production permit (REINFO, permitting underground exploration and production) in June 2022. Through the end of 2022 and start of 2023, the Company worked with past Chachas administrations (the Community) to obtain access to the Lucero mine and execute two exploration and sampling programs in 2023. [1], [2] At the end of 2023, the terms of both the former mayor of Chachas and the former head of the local artisanal miners association, Lomas Doradas ended. Past representations from the Community buoyed the Companys perspective on the probability of permit renewals through the first half of 2024. However, the new administration has been slow to enact new permits. Through 2024, the Company continued with This intensifying community relations work has helped the Chachas-region community at large to understand the Companys vision and we all win together mentality. These efforts yielded a greater-community vote of over 75% approval on October 6th, 2024 to have the local administration complete long-term surface access contracts with the Company for mutual benefit and growth as the mine is brought back to commercial production. Large parts of this approval are centered around the community understanding that there will be greater win-win benefits as Element79 Gold Corp continues developing the mine to restart production. In line with the newly extended deadline for the formalization of REINFOS is June 30, 2025, Lomas Doradas has requested to formalize 65 REINFO exploitation contracts with the Company, each with five-year terms. Since this approval on October 6, 2024, the Company via its community relations team have been meeting with the Community leadership, and state-level authorities. The Community indicated that its goal was to have these contracts executed before the end of the year. Despite best efforts and getting closer to final agreements on terms, the Community has now pushed the completion of the contracts to the next General Assembly of April 2025. The Company holds the Lucero Project including the mineral rights to the mine and exploration assets, and has signed a LOI for exclusive purchase rights to the Tailings as a significant business investment. The Company maintains their value as a significant opportunity for generating revenue in the near term. Next Steps Following guidance from the Companys field team at GAE, which has spent months in Chachas, holding face-to-face meetings with the various community leaders and heads of Lomas Doradas, as well as state-level administration, the Company plans to finalize agreements from both a legal and social perspective. It has become clear that formally requesting Arequipa GREM (Development for Energy & Mines) and ARMA (State Environmental body) to act as institutional mediators is required to bring final long-term agreements between Element79 Gold Corp (via its wholly-owned subsidiary Minas Lucero del Sur), the Chachas Community, and the Lomas Doradas Association to completion. It is currently estimated that within the first quarter of 2025, a few mine site visits and two to three mediation sessions by the GREM team in the same timeline, final agreements will be achieved. The Company is coordinating with legal counsel for these efforts and looks forward to having these key contracts complete for the General Assembly in April, as the rainy season ends. After the agreements are completed, the Companys core focus would shift to exploration and mining-related matters, preparing for 2025 campaigns to kick off. About Element79 Gold Corp. Element79 Gold is a mining company actively exploring and developing its portfolio of assets, including the high-grade, past-producing Lucero project in Arequipa, Peru, and properties along the Battle Mountain Trend in Nevada. The Company also holds an option to acquire the Dale Property in Ontario and is advancing the Plan of Arrangement spin-out process for its wholly owned subsidiary, Synergy Metals Corp. For further details on this announcement and the Companys projects, please visit www.element79.gold. Contact Information For corporate matters, please contact: James C. Tworek, Chief Executive Officer E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. For investor relations inquiries, please contact: Investor Relations Department Phone: +1.403.850.8050 E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements This press contains "forwardlooking information" and "forward-looking statements" under applicable securities laws (collectively, "forwardlooking statements"). These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance, business prospects or opportunities that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management made considering management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the completion of the Spin-Out Arrangement, the completion of the Amalgamation, the completion of the Concurrent Financing, the Company's business strategy; future planning processes; exploration activities; the timing and result of exploration activities; capital projects and exploration activities and the possible results thereof; acquisition opportunities; and the impact of acquisitions, if any, on the Company. Assumptions may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Consequently, forward-looking statements cannot be guaranteed. As such, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, assumptions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forwardlooking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "forecast", "potential", "target", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forwardlooking statements". \ Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. HIGHLIGHTS: Montage Gold Corp. ("Montage Gold") obtained a 19.9% ownership stake in Sanu Gold through the issuance of 2,337,921 common shares of Montage Gold in exchange, equating to approximately CAD $5.5 million value Lundin Family obtained a 10% stake in Sanu Gold, joining AngloGold Ashanti plc who maintained a 10% stake in Sanu respectively Strategic Collaboration: Montage Gold's CEO, Martino De Ciccio, has been appointed as Chair of Sanu Gold's Board of Directors with EVP Exploration Silvia Bottero joining as Technical Advisor Exploration Focus: Proceeds from these investments will fund exploration activities in Guinea, West Africa, targeting the highly prospective Daina, Diguifara, and Bantabaye permits Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 31, 2024) - Sanu Gold Corporation (CSE: SANU) (OTCQB: SNGCF) ("Sanu Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has completed a strategic investment by Montage Gold Corp. (TSXV: MAU) (OTCQX: MAUTF) ("Montage Gold") & the Lundin family and associates (the "Lundin Family") into Sanu Gold for a total value of CAD $10,055,412. The Company has completed a share exchange transaction (the "Share Exchange Transaction") with Montage Gold for an investment by Montage Gold in Sanu Gold consisting of the issuance of common shares of Montage Gold ("Montage Shares") having a market value of CAD $5,494,115 in exchange for the issuance of an equivalent value of common shares of Sanu Gold ("Sanu Common Shares") at a deemed price of CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, pursuant to an investment agreement between the Company and Montage Gold (the "Montage Investment Agreement"). Montage Gold is approximately a 19.9% shareholder in Sanu Gold post-Share Exchange Transaction and Offering (as defined herein). The Company is also pleased to announce the closing of a non-brokered private placement of 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares (the "Offering") at CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, for an aggregate total of CAD $4,561,297, led by members of the Lundin Family and associates. The Sanu Common Shares issued under the Share Exchange Transaction and the Offering are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company expects to use the net proceeds of the Offering to advance exploration, including geophysics and drilling on the Company's Daina, Diguifara and Bantabaye Gold Exploration Permits in Guinea, West Africa, and for general and administrative purposes. Martin Pawlitschek, CEO of Sanu Gold, commented: "This marks a transformative step forward for Sanu Gold. The investments from Montage Gold and the Lundin Family, following earlier investments by AngloGold Ashanti plc and Capital DI, provide us with the capital, expertise, and strategic support needed to accelerate exploration on our high-potential gold projects in Guinea. With Martino De Ciccio joining as Chair of the Board, we are well-positioned to create significant value for our shareholders." Under the Share Exchange Transaction, Sanu received 2,337,921 Montage Shares at a deemed price per Montage Share of CAD $2.35 in exchange for the issuance of 76,307,155 Sanu Common Shares at a deemed price of CAD $0.072 per Sanu Common Share, representing approximately 19.9% of Sanu Gold post-Share Exchange Transaction and Offering. Montage Gold acquired these Sanu Common Shares for investment purposes and may increase or decrease its interest in the Company in the future as market and other circumstances may dictate. The Montage Shares have been issued to Sanu Gold under an exemption from the prospectus requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws and will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance to Sanu Gold. Sanu Gold's sale of Montage Shares will be subject to certain notice rights to enable Montage Gold to designate suitable purchaser(s), which rights will operate so long as Montage Gold holds at least 10% of the issued and outstanding Sanu Common Shares. In connection with the Share Exchange Transaction, Martino De Ciccio, CEO of Montage Gold, has been appointed Chair of Sanu Gold. In connection with the Share Exchange Transaction, Company has entered into an investor rights agreement between Montage Gold and the Company (the "Montage Investor Rights Agreement"). The Montage Investor Rights Agreement will, subject to certain conditions, including ownership thresholds by Montage Gold, include the right to participate in future equity issuances to maintain its ownership in the Company, participation and top up rights, a board member nominee, a right of first refusal on certain asset-level transactions for Daina and Bantabaye and the formation of a technical advisory committee. In connection with the Offering, the Company has entered into: (i) an investment agreement between the Company and the Lundin Family; and (ii) an investor rights agreement (the "Lundin Investor Rights Agreements") between the Company and the Lundin Family. The Lundin Investor Rights Agreement, subject to certain conditions, including ownership thresholds by the Lundin Family, provide the Lundin Family with the right to participate in future equity issuances to maintain its ownership in the Company, and participation and top up rights. Eventus Capital Corp. has been appointed as the finder for Share Exchange Transaction and received a finder's fee of 5,341,501 Sanu Common Shares at a deemed price of $0.072 which are subject to a four-month hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws and will be subject to a resale restriction expiring four months and one day from the closing date. MI 61-101 Disclosure AngloGold Ashanti plc ("AngloGold Ashanti"), as well as two directors and officers of the Company (together with AngloGold Ashanti, the "Related Parties"), acquired an aggregate of 5,639,748 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering for a total purchase price of CAD $406,061.86. The participation by the Related Parties in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). However, the Offering will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of any Sanu Common Shares issued to or the consideration paid by such Related Parties exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. Early Warning Disclosure AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc (the "Investor") acquired an additional 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering. The Investor is a wholly owned direct subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti and acquired the foregoing Sanu Common Shares in connection with the exercise of the Investor's participation right under an existing investor rights agreement between AngloGold Ashanti and Sanu Gold (the "IRA"). Immediately prior to the Offering, the Investor had beneficial ownership of 33,400,000 Sanu Common Shares, representing approximately 14.0% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Immediately after the Offering and the Share Exchange Transaction, including the Investor's acquisition of 4,945,304 Sanu Common Shares under the Offering, the Investor had beneficial ownership of 38,345,304 Common Shares, representing approximately 10.0% of the issued and outstanding Sanu Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. The Investor acquired its Sanu Common Shares in the Offering for investment purposes and intends to review its investment in the Company on a continuing basis. Depending upon a number of factors including market and other conditions, the Investor may from time to time increase or decrease its beneficial ownership, control, direction or economic exposure over securities of the Company. The Company is a corporation existing under the laws of British Columbia with its head office at 918-1030 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 1Y3. An early warning report will be electronically filed with the applicable securities commission in each jurisdiction where the Company is reporting and will be available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. For further information or to obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact: Press Office Andrea Maxey +61 08 9435 4603 / +61 400 072 199 Investor Relations Andrea Maxey: +61 08 9435 4603 / +61 400 072 199 Yatish Chowthee: +27 11 637 6273 / +27 78 364 2080 AngloGold Ashanti Holdings plc Communications House, South Street, Staines-Upon-Thames Surrey, TW18 4PR United Kingdom Company Grants Stock Options The Company has approved the grant of 13,475,000 stock options to certain officers, directors, employees and consultants of the Company under the Company's stock option plan. The options vest in equal intervals over a two-year period following the grant date, are exercisable to purchase one Sanu Common Share at a price of CAD $0.16 and expire on December 31, 2029. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Sanu Gold Located within the Siguiri Basin, a world class gold district that is host to several operating mines and major new discoveries, Sanu Gold is exploring three high quality gold exploration permits in Guinea, West Africa. The Company has defined multi-kilometer long gold-bearing structures on each of the gold exploration permits, with multiple high-value drill targets and is targeting multi-million ounce gold discoveries. Sanu is operated by a highly experienced team, with successful records of discovery, resource development and mine permitting. Martin Pawlitschek President & CEO, Sanu Gold Corp. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "indicates", "opportunity", "possible" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated benefits and value created by the transactions contemplated above (the "Transactions"), non-objection by the Canadian Securities Exchange in respect of the Transactions, final approval by the TSX Venture Exchange of the Share Exchange Transaction and the expected use of proceeds from the Offering. Although Sanu Gold believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's plans for exploration on its properties and ability to execute on plans, ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward, ability to maintain its material property agreements, mineral tenures and concessions in good standing, to explore and develop its projects; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associated with mineral exploration and mining operations, future prices of gold and other metals, changes in general economic conditions and local risks in the jurisdiction (Guinea) in which it operates, accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates, the potential for new discoveries, the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the projects and if obtained, to obtain such permits and consents in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the projects; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, dependence on key management personnel; general competition in the mining industry availability of capital and financing; general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes; timeliness of regulatory approvals as well as those factors discussed in the Company's public disclosure record. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Highlights of Greenridge Exploration: Creates leading and diversified Canadian explorer of strategic metals : The combined entity owns or has interests in twenty-eight (28) projects covering approximately 388,040 hectares with considerable exposure to potential uranium, lithium, nickel, copper and gold discoveries. : The combined entity owns or has interests in twenty-eight (28) projects covering approximately 388,040 hectares with considerable exposure to potential uranium, lithium, nickel, copper and gold discoveries. One of the largest uranium property portfolios in the world class Athabasca Basin : Greenridge has interests in twelve (12) uranium projects and properties covering approximately 181,310 hectares in the Athabasca Basin. : Greenridge has interests in twelve (12) uranium projects and properties covering approximately 181,310 hectares in the Athabasca Basin. Adds extensive and diversified project portfolio : The Company holds interest in 28 exploration projects, which includes interests in 15 uranium projects totalling ~212,845 hectares across renowned Canadian uranium districts such as the Athabasca Basin, Thelon Basin, and Elliot Lake. Additionally, the Company holds 13 strategic metals projects across Canada, which includes lithium, nickel, gold, and copper exploration properties totalling ~175,195 hectares. : The Company holds interest in 28 exploration projects, which includes interests in 15 uranium projects totalling ~212,845 hectares across renowned Canadian uranium districts such as the Athabasca Basin, Thelon Basin, and Elliot Lake. Additionally, the Company holds 13 strategic metals projects across Canada, which includes lithium, nickel, gold, and copper exploration properties totalling ~175,195 hectares. Enhanced capital markets profile and shareholder base : The pro forma combined entity is expected to have a market capitalization of approximately C$41 million. 1 : The pro forma combined entity is expected to have a market capitalization of approximately C$41 million. Enhanced management and Greenridge Board: Warren Stanyer, CEO of ALX, joins as President and Director. Mandeep Parmar has been appointed as Executive Chairman. Consolidates ownership in the Carpenter Lake Project: Following the Transaction, Greenridge will own 60% of Carpenter Lake with the option to increase to 100%. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Greenridge Exploration Inc. ("Greenridge" or the "Company") (CSE: GXP | OTC: GXPLF | FRA: HW3) and ALX Resources Corp. ("ALX") (TSXV: AL | FSE: 6LLN | OTC: ALXEF) are pleased to announce the completion of the previously announced arrangement (the Transaction) whereby Greenridge has acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares of ALX by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). The Transaction establishes Greenridge as a leading Canadian uranium exploration company with interests in fifteen (15) uranium exploration projects that total approximately 212,845 hectares across renowned Canadian uranium districts including the Athabasca Basin, Thelon Basin and Elliot Lake. The combined entity also has interests in an additional thirteen (13) lithium, nickel, gold and copper properties across Canada. Russell Starr, Chief Executive Officer of Greenridge commented, We are very excited to announce the successful acquisition of ALX Resources. Moving forward, we are working to uncover the potential of our highly diversified project portfolio and continue to grow as a Company. With the recently closed CAD $4.9m financing we are in an excellent position to advance our projects in a meaningful way. Our bolstered management team will work with our partners, Denison Mines Corp. and Uranium Energy Corp., to develop our key properties. Greenridge is now positioned as a key uranium Company in Canada with a diversified portfolio of highly prospective projects in critical minerals. This acquisition is a key step in our growth strategy, and we are committed to creating long-term value for our investors. Greenridge now has one of the largest uranium property holdings in the world class Athabasca Basin. In addition to Carpenter Lake, the Company has interests in eleven (11) other projects in the basin. Highlighted projects include: Black Lake (40% Greenridge, 50.43% UEC, 8.57% Orano) 2004 discovery hole (BL-18) intersected 0.69% U 3 O 8 over 4.4 m. Over 150 holes drilled to date. 2 O over 4.4 m. Over 150 holes drilled to date. Gibbons Creek (100% Greenridge) high-grade boulders located in 2013 with grades of up to 4.28% U 3 O 8 . Four of the five holes drilled in 2024 intersected uranium mineralization at or near unconformity. Uranium mineralization found in two areas located 500 m apart. 3 O . Four of the five holes drilled in 2024 intersected uranium mineralization at or near unconformity. Uranium mineralization found in two areas located 500 m apart. Hook-Carter (currently 80% Denison Mines Corp., 20% Greenridge) 13 km from NexGen Energy Ltd.s Arrow deposit and 20 km from Fission Uranium Corp.s Triple R deposit. Hosts a 15 km long exploration corridor prospective for uranium. Under the terms of a 2024 amendment to the joint venture agreement, Greenridge can earn an additional 5.0% for a total of a 25% interest by spending $3.0 million by November 2026. Denison Mines Corp. has spent ~C$7.05M to date, which includes 11,757 m drilled from 2018 to 2019. 4 McKenzie Lake (100% Greenridge) A.I. work identified targets following 2021 magnetic and radiometric survey. Boulders were found with grades of up to 0.101% U 3 O 8 .5 Figure 1 - Greenridge Exploration Saskatchewan Project Portfolio Greenridge holds a portfolio of lithium, nickel, copper and gold properties. Notably, the Vixen Gold Project saw 2019 prospecting, mapping and sampling that returned values of 23.9 g/t gold and 6.1 g/t silver across four samples.6 A more comprehensive, helicopter supported sampling program in 2020 provided gold values of up to 22.73 g/t gold as well as 7.21 g/t gold.6 Additionally, the Cannon Copper Project, also situated in Ontario, hosts the historical Cannon Copper Mine and Mill which has a historical mineral resource of 415,000 tonnes grading 1.8% Cu over a width of 6.5 ft.; (1.98m) (Source: Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6366, Report of Activities 2019). (Note: This historical resource estimate is not compliant with the standards of National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) and cannot be compared to NI 43-101 categories. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the estimate as a current resource and the Company is not treating the estimate as a current resource estimate. However, the estimate is relevant to guiding the Companys exploration plans and provides geological information regarding the type of mineralization that could be present in the Cannon Copper area). Figure 2 Greenridge Exploration Canadian Project Portfolio Details of the Transaction Greenridge acquired all the outstanding common shares of ALX (the ALX Shares) in consideration for the issuance of an aggregate of 11,226,143 common shares of Greenridge (the Greenridge Shares) to the former ALX shareholders, based on the share exchange ratio of 0.045 common shares of Greenridge for each ALX Share held. Full details of the Transaction and certain other matters are set out in the management information circular of ALX dated October 28, 2024, which can be found under the SEDAR+ profile of ALX at www.sedarplus.ca. Board of Directors and Management Team In connection with the Transaction, Warren Stanyer, ALXs Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, has joined the board of directors of Greenridge (the Greenridge Board), which is now comprised of four directors. A second director to be mutually agreed upon by Greenridge and ALX will be nominated to the Greenridge Board at the next annual shareholder meeting of Greenridge shareholders. Warren Stanyer has also been appointed as the President of Greenridge. Russell Starr will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer and Director. Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Mandeep Parmar as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Parmar brings over a decade of experience in public markets, specializing in finance, capital raising, investor relations, and corporate development. He has worked with numerous public companies listed in both Canada and the United States, providing expertise in corporate structuring, financing, and business development. Delisting of ALX Shares Trading in the ALX Shares has been halted by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") and the ALX Shares are expected to be delisted from the TSXV after the close of markets on December 31, 2024. Greenridge is in the process of applying for ALX to cease to be a reporting issuer under applicable Canadian securities laws and to otherwise terminate the public reporting requirements of ALX. Early Warning Disclosure Prior to the Transaction, Greenridge held no securities of ALX. On completion of the Transaction, Greenridge holds all of the issued and outstanding ALX Shares. As a result of the Transaction, ALX is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Greenridge. An early warning report will be filed by Greenridge on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca in accordance with applicable securities laws. A copy of the early warning report filed by Greenridge will be available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. None of the securities to be issued pursuant to the Transaction have been or will be registered under the United State Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws, and any securities issued pursuant to the Transaction are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable exemptions under state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. About Greenridge Exploration Inc. Greenridge Exploration Inc. (CSE: GXP | OTC: GXPLF | FRA: HW3) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to creating shareholder value through the acquisition, exploration, and development of critical mineral projects in Canada. The Company owns or has interests in 28 projects covering approximately 388,040 hectares with considerable exposure to potential uranium, lithium, nickel, copper and gold discoveries. The Company is led by an experienced management team and board of directors with significant expertise in capital raising and advancing mining projects. Greenridge has one of the largest uranium property portfolios in Canada consisting of 15 projects covering approximately 212,845 hectares. The Company has opportunities to realize value in a further 12 strategic metals projects which include lithium, nickel, gold, and copper exploration properties totalling ~175,195 hectares. Project highlights include: The Black Lake property, located in the NE Athabasca Basin, (40% Greenridge, 50.43% UEC, 8.57% Orano) saw a 2004 discovery hole (BL-18) return 0.69% U 3 O 8 over 4.4m. O over 4.4m. The Hook-Carter property (20% Greenridge, 80% Denison Mines Corp.) is strategically located in the SW Margin of the Athabasca Basin, sitting ~13km from NexGen Energy Ltd.s Arrow deposit and ~20 km from Fission Uranium Corp.s Triple R deposit. The Gibbons Creek property hosts high-grade boulders located in 2013, with grades of up to 4.28% U 3 O 8 and the McKenzie Lake project saw a 2023 exploration program return three samples which included 844 ppm U-total (0.101% U 3 O 8 ), 273 ppm U-total, and 259 ppm U-total. O and the McKenzie Lake project saw a 2023 exploration program return three samples which included 844 ppm U-total (0.101% U O ), 273 ppm U-total, and 259 ppm U-total. The Nut Lake property located in the Thelon Basin includes historical drilling which intersected up to 9ft of 0.69% U 3 O 8 including 4.90% U 3 O 8 over 1ft from 8ft depth. O including 4.90% U O over 1ft from 8ft depth. The Firebird Nickel property has seen two drill programs (7 holes totaling 1,339 m), where hole FN20-002 intersected 23.8 m of 0.36% Ni and 0.09% Cu, including 10.6 m of 0.55% Ni and 0.14% Cu. The Electra Nickel project 2022 drill program included results of 2,040 ppm Ni over 1m and 1,260 ppm Ni over 3.5m. The Company has strategic partnerships which includes properties being operated and advanced by Denison Mines Corp. and Uranium Energy Corp. The Companys management team, board of directors, and technical team brings significant expertise in capital raising and advancing mining projects and is poised to attract new investors and raise future capital. Qualified Person The technical information in this news release regarding ALX Resources properties has been reviewed and approved by Robert Campbell, P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101. The technical information in this news release regarding Greenridge Exploration properties has been reviewed and approved by Jody Dahrouge, B.Sc., P.Geo. of Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd. who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101. Mineralization on any other properties referred to herein is not necessarily indicative of mineralization on either of the properties of ALX or Greenridge. References ALX Resources Corp. Black Lake Historical Mineralized Uranium Intersections https://alxresources.com/black-lake-uranium/ Ramp Metals Announces New High-Grade Gold Discovery of 73.55 g/t Au over 7.5m at its Rottenstone SW Project https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213278 ALX Resources Corp. - Intersects Uranium Mineralization at the Gibbons Creek Uranium Project, Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan March 25, 2024 https://alxresources.com/alx-resources-corp-intersects-uranium-mineralization-at-the-gibbons-creek-uranium-project-athabasca-basin-saskatchewan/ ALX Resources Corp. Hook Carter Uranium Project https://alxresources.com/hook-carter-uranium/ ALX Resources Corp. Vixen Lake Project https://alxresources.com/vixen-gold/ On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Greenridge Russell Starr Chief Executive Officer, Director Telephone: +1 (778) 897-3388 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the Transaction, the perceived benefits of the Transaction, the timing of consideration under the Transaction, the timing of delisting of the ALX Shares on the TSXV; and ALXs intention to apply to cease to be a reporting issuer are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to projects owned by Greenridge and ALX and their mineralization potential; the Companys objectives, goals, or future plans with respect to projects owned by Greenridge and ALX; statements with respect to the completion of Greenridges acquisition of ALX and other matters related to or connected with the Transaction; further exploration work on projects owned by Greenridge and ALX in the future. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including that ALX and Greenridges exploration programs may be delayed or changed due to any delays experienced in consultation and engagement activities with First Nations and Metis communities, and local landowners in the region, and the results of such consultations and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. ___________________________________ 1 Calculated using Greenridges closing share price on the Canadian Securities Exchange on October 10, 2024 of C$0.78 and the pro forma basic shares outstanding of the combined entity of approximately 53.3 million common shares. 2 Source: Black Lake Property, Fall 2017 Diamond Drilling Program Report - MARS Assessment Work Report #2715. 3 Source: ALX Resources Corp. news releases dated March 25, April 25 and June 13, 2024. 4 Source: ALX Resources Corp. news release dated May 23, 2024. 5 Source: ALX Resources Corp. news release dated November 7, 2023. VANCOUVER, BC , Sept. 13, 2023 /CNW/ - Monumental Minerals Corp. (" Monumental " or the " Company ") (TSXV: MNRL) (FSE: BE5) is pleased to announce the appointment of Wasim Rehman to the board of directors. Wasim Rehman has more than 20 years of experience in financial markets and is the founding... Read More Wednesday, December 31, 2024 - A notorious gang associate, infamous for using a motorcycle to snatch mobile phones from unsuspecting bystanders in Bamburi, Nyali, and Kadzandani areas, has been apprehended by detectives from Mombasa Regional Headquarters. In a determined pursuit of the gang, detectives arrested Ian Mahad, also known as Suleiman, at a motorcycle shop in Mombasa's central business district, where he was purchasing a new bike. This came after angry locals torched his previous motorcycle during his theft spree on Saturday. The officers expanded their operation to gang members hiding near Kadzandani Primary School, where they recovered a motorcycle with registration number KMGG 228X Honda, an Oppo mobile phone, and other items. However, other culprits managed to evade capture. The suspect is currently in police custody undergoing processing pending arraignment, as detectives continue their intensive search for those who managed to escape the police dragnet. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Wednesday, December 30, 2024 - Renowned blogger Aoko Otieno has linked the son of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to a secret squad formed to track down and abduct vocal Kenyan youths criticizing the government on social media. Taking to her X account, Aoko shared a photo of Douglas Kanja's son, Simon, and claimed that he is an NIS officer and a member of the secret squad involved in covert operations. She further claimed that Simon knows where the recently abducted youths were taken. Aoko's remarks come after Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged that there is a secret squad that has masterminded the recent abductions in the country. "There is a unit that is not under the command of the IG of Police. "Theres a building in Nairobi the 21st floor at the city center, where the unit is operating from, led by a certain Mr. Abel. "Abel is a cousin to a very senior official in this government, Gachagua revealed in a press address on Friday. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Kenya is facing a severe health crisis following reports of a nationwide Bacillus CalmetteGuerin (BCG) vaccine stockout. Newborns are being discharged from hospitals without receiving this essential vaccine, which plays a critical role in preventing Tuberculosis (TB) in infants. The fresh crisis is reportedly the second stockout of the important vaccine in 2024, with hospitals calling for an immediate arrest of the situation. The shortage has left Kisumu and Baringo as the most affected counties in the country with health stakeholders calling out the government on the over-reliance of donors to partially fund critical areas in healthcare. At the Kisumu County Hospital, the shortage of the BCG vaccine, which is one of the three vaccines administered at birth, has forced the hospital to register mothers directing them to avail their infants for vaccination in January. This move is seen as a big risk as it leaves the newborns highly vulnerable to contracting the dangerous disease while also leaving a huge burden on their mothers who are still in the early stages of their postpartum recovery. Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Dr. Gregory Ganda confirmed the shortage which has persisted for a month citing delays in procurement of the vaccine at the national level. Elsewhere, Baringo County also recorded a stockout in the BCG vaccine with tetanus and yellow fever vaccines also reported in short supply. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has taken the first solid step to curb the spate of abductions in the country by calling for immediate investigations into the alleged missing persons. In a statement, Ingonga revealed that at least five cases of suspected abductions occurred in December alone. "It is apparent from the reports that there have been at least five (5) such suspected cases of abduction in December 2024 alone, with the victims said to be Bill Mwangi, Peter Muteti Njeru, Bernard Kavuli, Gideon Kibet aka Kibet Bull, and his brother Ronny Kiplagat, each of whom is yet to be traced after having been picked up by unidentified people in questionable circumstances," the DPP said. Ingonga, therefore, directed the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite investigations and submit reports within three days for review and potential action. "I have also noted the Press Statements released by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on 25th December 2024, indicating investigations into the various abduction incidents, and the clarification by the Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS) on 26th December 2024 on the alleged cases of abductions by the NPS, in which both institutions separately gave an undertaking to investigate the incidents, noting the gravity of the allegations, and the immense public interest that the same has drawn "I have, pursuant to Article 157 (4) of the Constitution, directed both the Inspector General of Police and the IPOA to expedite the investigations touching on reported cases of abductions and alleged forced disappearance of citizens, and forward the resultant files for perusal and action, and/or provide an update on the investigations, within three (3) days from the date hereof," he added. The DPP's statement came at the eleventh hour when the country was grappling with a wave of uncertainty over the abducted Kenyans, who all incidentally criticised the Kenya Kwanza Government before being reported missing. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - When we told you that Gachagua staged the attack in Nyandarua, you people called us names. Now, this is the Nation Media report today. The suspect was recruited by Senator Methu. The police must move with speed and charge Senator Methu and his gang for trying to cause chaos and faking an incident to score political points. Based on the details provided, if the allegation that Senator Methu staged the incident is found to be true, the following charges under Kenyan law could potentially be applicable: Perjury or Making False Allegations (Section 129 of the Penal Code) If Senator Methu knowingly provided false information implicating another person (Police Constable Gitau) in an incident, this could amount to perjury or the crime of providing false information to authorities. Abuse of Office (Section 101 of the Penal Code) If Senator Methu used his official position to frame someone for a crime or orchestrate an incident for personal or political gain, he could be charged with abuse of office. Public Mischief (Section 96 of the Penal Code) Staging an incident that caused public confusion, panic, or unrest could be categorized as public mischief. This applies if the act resulted in unnecessary use of public resources or endangered lives. Incitement to Violence or Disobedience (Section 96 of the Penal Code) If the incident created a public disturbance or incited the mob to lynch the suspect, Senator Methu could face charges of incitement to violence or public disorder. Endangering Public Safety (Sections 232-235 of the Penal Code) Deploying a teargas canister near VIPs and a crowd is a serious act that could endanger public safety. If Senator Methu was involved in orchestrating the use of a weapon or harmful substance, he could be held liable. Malicious Prosecution (Civil Claim) If it is proven that Senator Methu framed the police constable, the officer could file a civil claim for malicious prosecution, seeking damages for the wrongful accusation and arrest. Conspiracy to Commit a Crime (Section 393 of the Penal Code) If Senator Methu conspired with others to stage this incident, he could be charged with conspiracy. Attempted Harm or Threat to Life (Section 220 of the Penal Code) The deliberate use of a teargas canister in proximity to VIPs could be seen as an attempt to cause harm or threaten lives. Via Robert Alai. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Wednesday, December 31, 2024 - More details have emerged regarding the disappearance of 28-year-old EABL brand manager Lilian Nyambura Mbugua, who went missing from her familys home in Gikono, Kabati, Muranga County, on December 23. Lilian was reportedly found alive in Maragua Town at a petrol station early Tuesday just past midnight. Her family confirmed that she was weak and confused and had asked the attendants to call her mother. She was immediately taken to a nearby health centre, where health officials described her condition as disturbed. Her uncle, George Njuguna, stated that the family is in touch with her employer and plans are underway to take her to Nairobi for further medical attention. At the same time, police continue to investigate the incident. Lilian had travelled to her mothers home on December 21 for the Christmas festivities. After a quiet weekend, she left the family compound for what appeared to be a brief evening walk on December 23. When she did not return, her family became concerned, especially after discovering that she had left her phones, car keys, and personal belongings behind. A report was made to the Gikono police post and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kenol. Investigations had initially been challenging due to the absence of traceable devices or vehicles but police were later informed that Lilian had made three phone calls on the evening of December 28. Authorities continue their inquiry, hoping further details will provide clarity on the mysterious circumstances surrounding her disappearance. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, December 31, 2024 The Jubilee Party has also denied any alliance with President William Ruto after the appointment of former President Uhuru Kenyattas allies to Cabinet. In a statement, Uhuru, through Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, reiterated that the party remains firmly in the opposition, despite recent developments suggesting otherwise. His statement follows the nomination of several Jubilee-affiliated members to the Cabinet, a move that has sparked speculation about the party's alignment. The nominations came just days after a high-profile meeting between President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Jubilee we are in opposition. We are where our party leader told William Ruto to... develop the economy, he said during a press conference on Monday. Kionis clarification came days after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga defended the Uhuru-Ruto meeting, saying the two leaders only greeted each other, and that would only amount to a handshake if they announced it themselves. On the appointment of Uhurus allies to government, Raila insisted that it was out of the need to form an all-inclusive government that Ruto picked people from the Jubilee party to join his Cabinet. He went on to explain that should there have been a handshake, it would have been as a result of a signed agreement, which would be made public by Uhuru and Ruto. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned President William Rutos administration over what he termed as bad governance and rising cases of abductions. In his New Year message to Kenyans, Maraga urged Ruto to govern by the rule of law rather than through chest-thumping and abducting critics of his government. Maraga further called for the immediate release of unlawfully detained youth and stressed the importance of upholding the constitutions values of dignity and life. "The killing, maiming, and abduction of young Kenyans have put our institutions to a serious test. It demands a moral response. "If we are truly a people sworn to the sanctity of life and the dignity of every citizen, then we must stand bold in the truth of our Constitution. "I condemn the killings, torture, and abductions and call for the immediate release of the youth still held unlawfully. Our politics must never again be this heartless and uncaring," said Maraga. The Chief Justice emeritus pointed to the 2010 Constitution as a beacon of hope and transformation, reminding Kenyans of the overwhelming mandate they gave to this vision. "Fidelity to the Constitution is fundamental. It keeps us all grounded in our responsibility to build a just society," Maraga underscored. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, December 30, 2024 - A naive young man was left counting his losses after being approached by a conman disguised as a second-hand phone seller on a busy street in downtown Nairobi. The conman sold him a 'smartphone,' only for him to realize he had been conned after handing over the money. The victim couldn't believe his eyes when he tried to switch on the phone and use it. It had no motherboard, rendering it useless. He parted away with Ksh 1,600. Watch the video. Mchezo Wa Town: See how this guy was conned after buying a 'smartphone' along a busy street in downtown Nairobi pic.twitter.com/J9AsnGOzCH DAILY POST (@dailypost_ke) December 31, 2024 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Kibwezi West Member of Parliament Mwengi Mutuse has linked former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to Monday's demonstrations in Nairobi and the ongoing abductions across the country. Speaking on Monday, Mutuse, who oversaw the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua as Deputy President in October, claimed that Gachagua might be behind the ongoing demonstrations against President William Ruto and could also be responsible for the abductions of Kenyans I have received credible evidence regarding Rigathi Gachagua suggesting that he through some of his close associates may be collaborating with sympathetic individuals within the government and former officials to orchestrate activities designed to incite public unrest and create dissent against the current administration. "Alarmingly, these activities reportedly include involvement in recent abductions, Mutuse said. Mutuse alleged that the former Mathira MP has individuals working for him to abduct Kenyans who criticize the government. He further claimed that after these individuals go missing, Gachagua swiftly blames the government for their disappearance "I have decided to make this public and to challenge Rigathi Gachagua, the former deputy president so that he may come out and tell Kenyans about his role in the current abductions," he stated. Mutuse opined that if Gachagua is complicit in the disappearances, the police must act decisively to ensure he and his associates are brought to justice. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - President William Ruto has been named by a global anti-corruption firm as the world's most corrupt leader, after deposed Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) ranked Ruto second, after Assad, who was overthrown by opposition forces earlier this month Surprisingly, out of the 55,000 people who participated, 40,000 nominated Ruto for 'Person of the Year' in organized crime and corruption The judges explained that Rutos government has been accused of greed and corruption, resulting in failures in economic policy, health, education, as well as overall instability and the abduction of political opponents Here are the six most corrupt people in the world according to OCCRP. 1. Bashar al-Assad (Syria) 2. William Ruto (Kenya) 3. Joko Widodo (Indonesia) 4. Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Nigeria) 5. Sheikh Hasina (Bangladesh) 6. Gautam Adani (India) The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga seems to be losing faith in President William Ruto and his government. This is after he called out the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, demanding his immediate resignation for failing to deal with the increasing cases of abductions in the country. According to Raila, the disturbing trend has already sparked public protests, especially among the younger generation, who have lost faith in the government, especially the IG, and therefore want him to resign or be fired. He further revealed that the manner in which the abductions were executed - the use of fake vehicle number plates and handcuffs was so distinctive, implying it was the work of the security agencies. According to Raila, some of the functions of the National Police Service (NPS) include investigations into such serious, and detecting and preventing crimes and for the IG to claim that he was not aware was either due to him not being true to himself or out of touch with reality. He said handcuffs were mainly used by security agencies and demanded to know where the abductors were getting them from to intimidate Kenyans and to hold them incommunicado. The abductions are denting the good image of the police service. The abductors use handcuffs; where do they get them from? "And IGP is telling us he is not aware of such actions. Is he true to himself or out of touch with reality? Raila posed. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, December 31, 2024 - The family of Tracy Nyariki, the 31-year-old woman murdered by her ex-boyfriend Nobert Matara in the U.S., has broken its silence. According to Nyarikis sister, her death came just weeks after she celebrated her traditional wedding with a new partner. Her family believes this triggered her ex-boyfriend to commit the heinous act. They broke up long ago, and Tracy moved on with her life. I think he saw that he lost chances with her completely. Tracys sister said. The family further disclosed how news of her passing caught them off-guard as Nyariki, who worked as a nurse in the US, was in high spirits before her death and was looking forward to Christmas festivities. Nyarikis uncle said she was fairly new in her job, and her family back in Kenya largely depended on her. She has been taking care of her ailing father who has been confined in a wheelchair since 2010. "She has not been in that job for many years. Some of us were happy for her because she could help us with her dad's medicine and other issues in the family, he said. Nyarikis dismembered body was found in her ex-boyfriends car, days after she was reported missing. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula has called for the arrest of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for urging the Luhya community to abandon former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Gachagua, speaking to journalists on Sunday, questioned why the Luhya community would continue to rely on Raila, who is from a different region when they had capable leaders in their own backyard. According to Gachagua, Western Kenya has capable leaders, and it is time for the region to stop looking outside for political guidance. "There is no way Wamalwa can be a great leader if you are still following Raila Odinga to give you political direction. "You know you have your own leaders who are qualified by any definition. "It is time to liberate yourselves from the politics of Raila Odinga as a community. "Why dont you first unite as a region, and if you have to negotiate with him, negotiate from a position of strength as a community? "But you cannot be under him, that is not possible," he said. In response to Gachagua's remarks, Savula urged the police to arrest him for promoting a tribal and divisive agenda in Western Kenya. Kakamega County will not be PART of Rigathi Gachagua tribal and divisive stance of dividing KENYANS. "His entire language in today was stinking of tribal bigotry and division. @rigathimust be arrested for preaching hate to Kenyans. "Shame on you @Cleophasmalala for inviting him, Savula said. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has faulted Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah for going to the streets to demand the release of abducted Kenyans. Senator Omtatah stole headlines on Monday after he joined youthful protestors in the Nairobi CBD to protest against abductions in the country. What ensued was a back and forth with anti-riot police, with Omtatah and several other protestors getting arrested. The Senator was subsequently taken to Gigiri Police Station. In the wake of his arrest, Senator Cherargei, who is a well-known ally of President William Ruto, sympathized with families whose kin went missing during the festive period. However, Cherargei was critical of how Omtatah decided to stand with Kenyans on the ground. "I hope and pray the young Kenyans who were abducted pedestrian criminals shall be found safe & be able to join their families during this festive season," Cherargei said. According to Cherargei, Omtatah would have been better off pushing for a Senate sitting to grill security stakeholders in the country, including Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, the National Intelligence Service, and others. "To my brother Senator Omtatah, the people of Busia County elected you to be the Senator of the Republic of Kenya. My advice convince the Senate to hold a special sitting to allow all of us to summon IG, NIS, IPOA & DCI to be held accountable for these heinous lapses of security," he stated. Cherargei went on to term yesterday's demonstrations as 'illegal'. The anti-abduction protests were reported in several major cities across the country including Nairobi, Eldoret, Embu, and Mombasa, with tens of protestors getting arrested. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, December 31, 2024 - Rogers Okidos, 26, Godfrey Ndiba, 25, and William Rohara, 25, are in lawful custody after they were found in possession of Government stores and an imitation firearm by officers from Githika Police Station in Kiambu County. Acting decisively on intelligence from alert locals, the officers raided a house in Githangi village, notorious for being a hub where young men and women package and sell bhang. The operation resulted in the arrest of the three suspects. Upon conducting a thorough search, the officers confiscated an Administration Police smoke jacket, an imitation firearm, 29 rolls of bhang, a rolling pad, and Rizla papers, among other illegal items. The suspects are currently in police custody, undergoing processing as they await their court appearance. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Bridget is a new short film written by Cloonen natives, Anne Williamson and Brian Clancy and is performed by The Fionn MacCumhaill Players. Filmed by Diceman Productions in Kilkenny this short film has sold out all previous venues. The film tells the story of Bridgets final days and her murder. Bridget Cleary was burned to death in 1895 by her husband who claimed she was a changeling. Many stories have been written and filmed about the case that rocked the world over 100 years ago causing uproar in a small rural village called Cloneen in Tipperary. The story became known as the last witch burning in Ireland. Bridgets ordeal began when she started to take walks up past the fairy fort in Kylenagranagh close to her home. She was a very independent and beautiful woman who was a seamstress and was well educated, a rare thing for a woman back then. When she developed bronchitis after getting caught in the rain one evening she took to the bed with a fever. Despite the doctor saying it was bronchitis her husband had other ideas and sought the help of a local medicine man for a cure to rid her of the fairies. He also got neighbours and relations to help to administer these potions by holding her down and forcing her to drink the awful potions amongst other vile things. On March 15 things finally took a vicious turn and he burned her in the house while her relations watched in horror doing nothing to stop him. This short film was done in the hope the shadows of secrecy and shame can once and for all be banished from the little village and Bridget's name and grave can finally be marked with respect. She was buried at night with no mourners. Brian Clancy and Anne Williamson have also co- produced the film. Ann has been at the helm as director of the Fionn MacCumhaill Players for years and she has directed this most recent production. Bridget is played by Mullinahone native Vicky Maher and the villainous Michael Cleary is played by Clonmels John Patrick Morris. Members of cast and the director will be available for questions and a short talk afterwards. Bridget will be shown at The Watergate Theatre on January 15 at 7.30pm. watergatetheatre.com Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A Kilkenny woman has spoken about how fostering has become the journey of a lifetime for her. Children have so many challenges when they come to you, but its rewarding to watch them mature, said foster carer Mary Mulligan. To see them not do the things they might so easily have done if they werent in care thats a big win, she said. Its a difficult path that they walk, and you are there for them to lean on. Walk with them; make sure that whatever is in front of them is in front of you too. Mary (56) and her husband Adam started fostering back in 2000 when they took a pair of siblings for respite care. Marys hankering to be a foster carer stretches further back than that, to the age of 17, when a distant relation of Marys became a foster carer and inspired her to do the same someday. The couple have fostered nine children - three of them for over 15 years - as well as a child who came to her and husband Adam, at six months and who is still with them aged 24. The couple have experience of fostering children with complex needs on a long-term basis while being supported by multidisciplinary teams and other experts dealing with developmental and behavioural difficulties. In fact, Mary and Adam are in the process of adopting one of the children who has been in their care since he arrived in their home at the age of two. It was so emotional for us that he wanted to be in a family with us, she says. Fostering then is not without its rewards, but there are challenges too, and learning to work together as a couple has been key to Mary and Adams endurance over the years. We wouldnt always agree on how to handle a challenging situation. You have to find a way of talking the matter through agree to disagree. You will be challenged, but being able to stick together through that challenge is what matters, says Mary. Fostering is very rewarding, but I dont want to give the impression that its all wonderful and not without challenges; to do that would be setting people up for difficult experience. Its about finding a way forward; you have to be doggedly determined. One particularly challenging time for Mary was having to hand back a child she took in as an infant and had supported for four years. You put yourself out there emotionally, mentally, physically to look after someone elses child and you go through that again when you have to give it back, she said. Its hard; like a mourning period that you go through, and you think , I cant do that again, but you can do it. Resilience develops over time within you; resilience you dont even know you have until the next time. But the rewards are there in watching a child you nurtured going from strength to strength, says Mary. Not every child in care will go to college. Fostering is about watching how they progress, and that progress might be slow, but it mounts up over the years. Its about walking a road with them, and you dont know how long it will be or whats on it. That doesnt mean they wont reach their destination, they just might take a different route. You cant measure success against college courses and grades; this type of success looks different. Mary says that she has been helped in her carer role by Tuslas trauma training and support programme, which helps to recognise and understand the behaviours that children exhibit. That, combined with the strong support of link workers, social workers and social care workers has helped sustain foster carers in their bid to help raise vulnerable children. I have found that there are really good people in Tusla exemplary examples of staff who believed in what you were trying to do; people who would hang in there when a child wouldnt engage. Mary worked in social care, helping homeless people and those in elderly care, and she has used the skills gleaned in those roles alongside her fostering experience to take on a newly created role in Tusla as a peer support worker, advising foster carers in need of an experienced head on wise shoulders. While aimed at supporting carers in their first year or two with the Agency, Mary says it will also benefit longer-term foster carters because support is crucial at a later stage, too, especially when a child enters their teen years. Its very important that foster carers are supported in ways that allow them to instil resilience, she said. Its my job to help foster cares find that resilience. You learn from other people who have been down that road; people who will keep you in that good state of mind. The pilot programme, which has been running for six months, has six peer support workers working in areas across the country. As a peer support worker my role is to listen, not to run in with a solution but to help them find a solution that suits them; help them to find their resilience, said Mary. Its all about hanging on in there. When you see them doing that theres a great sense of achievement, and you know the resilience will build from that. Fostering is an extraordinarily generous act performed by ordinary people going that extra mile for young people at a time when they most need help. Foster parents are people like you and me, said Jacqui Smith, Tuslas National Lead for Fostering. They are farmers and hairdressers, creche workers, schoolteachers, homemakers and shop assistants who open their homes to children at a time of incredible uncertainty. That gesture and commitment changes childrens lives and it changes the lives of the families who foster in all kinds of amazing ways. Now, more than ever, children in our communities need loving, safe, stable homes where they can thrive and grow. You can be that adult that changes a childs life forever. Mary and Adam have been doing just that for 24 years now. They have walked side by side with the children in their care on a sometimes-winding road, she added. Its a journey that can last a lifetime, but its one that neither Mary nor Adam shows any sign of ever wanting to end. The increase in demand means that Tusla is looking for people from diverse backgrounds, in communities across Ireland, to provide all types of foster care and other supports for young people who need them. A schedule of events will be held throughout June, which will include local and online information sessions for anyone interested in learning more about becoming a foster carer. For more information and to register for a foster information session visit fostering.ie, call 1800-226771 or visit www.fostering.ie Following a recommendation from the Council of The Bar of Ireland last month, criminal barristers around the country will withdraw their services this Tuesday, July 9 in the first of three days of withdrawal this month. Protests will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) in Kilkenny City and 15 other courthouses nationwide where criminal cases were due to be heard on the day, including the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin; Ennis, Co Clare; Washington Street, Cork; Tralee, Co Kerry; Naas, Co Kildare; Limerick City; Castlebar, Co Mayo; Longford town; Trim, Co Meath; Sligo town; Clonmel, Co Tipperary; Bray, Co Wicklow; Waterford City; Wexford town. This is an escalation on the unprecedented action taken by criminal barristers all over the country on October 3 last, with the aim of seeking an independent, meaningful, time-limited and binding mechanism to determine the fees paid to criminal barristers by the Director of Public Prosecutions and under the Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Scheme. Following the first withdrawal on October 3rd 2023, a 10% restoration was subsequently announced in Budget 2024 on October 10th 2023. FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE However, even after this 10% was restored, the full range of FEMPI-era cuts that were applied across the public sector, continue to apply to the profession, and the unilateral breaking of the link (in 2008) to public sector pay agreements has yet to be restored. This is despite a Government commissioned review in 2018 acknowledging that the reversal of the cuts was justified given the level of reform and flexibilities delivered by the profession. Sara Phelan SC, Chair of the Council of The Bar of Ireland said that 'it is with regret that we have recommended to criminal practitioners that they withdraw service again'. "No barrister wishes to be in this position, but we have been left with no choice," she said. "The Government has just reported on the complete unwinding of FEMPI legislation this month, yet FEMPI-era cuts still apply to our profession. "This is despite the fact that the role of criminal barristers has evolved significantly in that time frame, and we have at all times delivered on the required reforms and flexibilities. "Yet, barristers continue to be treated differently to others in the criminal justice system and indeed to society at large. All we are seeking is fairness, and for appropriate investment in the criminal justice system. "A failure to so invest will result in continued attrition at the criminal bar, which will in turn add to the delays already being experienced by members of the public involved in the criminal justice system these delays can often be very difficult, in particular for victims of crime and accused persons, all of whom are seeking to have their rights vindicated. The ball is in the Governments court now." Sean Guerin SC, Chair of the Criminal State Bar Committee said that 'the impact of inadequate fees is having a corrosive effect on the retention of counsel in criminal practice and this isnt just a matter that affects barristers, its also a matter of social justice'. "A lack of experienced and available barristers to fully and properly defend or prosecute a case, leads to inequality and injustice, which have an impact on everyone in society ," he added. "Public trust in the criminal justice system should not be taken for granted, and must be protected." The Council of The Bar of Ireland has recommended a withdrawal of service by criminal law barristers nationwide on the following dates: Tuesday July 9, Monday July 15, and Wednesday July 24. FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE Taoiseach Simon Harris was full of praise for the Marble City as he officially opened the 51st Kilkenny Arts Festival at Butler House in early August. The Kilkenny Arts Festival has attracted many of the worlds most gifted performers, musicians, writers and artists over the years, and put in another stellar showing for its 51st edition in 2024. In slightly more concerning news, a report released in August by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) showed a continuing decline in the number of pubs in Kilkenny, where 49 pubs have closed since 2005. The report showed that the percentage decrease in the number of public houses in Kilkenny between 2005 and 2023 stood at 21.7%. READ NEXT: "You will be challenged": Kilkenny couple share their powerful story It was good news for three community groups in August as Kilkenny County Council made three nominations for the IPB Pride of Place Awards. Ferrybank Community Group, Johnstown Community Group and Inistioge Community Group were all selected. These nominations recognised these community groups for their outstanding contribution within their local communities and the positive impact this has had on the wider community. For many students in Kilkenny, August brought with it a day of reckoning as their Leaving Certificate results were revealed. The overall response from schools across the county was hugely positive, with many local students achieving top marks. Amongst those to achieve the maximum number of points was Castlecomer Community School student Taya Korenska, who left Ukraine behind for Kilkenny following the outbreak of the conflict with Russia. The picturesque town of Graignamanagh was transformed once again for the 21st offering of the Town of Books Festival from August 23-25. The festival has been a literary haven for book lovers and a cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike for over two decades and once again went down a storm. It was also a huge month for Kilkenny woman and former Loreto student Faiza Kanjaou, who was named as a finalist in the Miss Universe Ireland 2024 competition. August also saw an interesting report published that revealed that a woods in County Kilkenny was the fourth-most visited Coillte Park (non-ticketed). According to figures, the local visitor attraction of Jenkinstown Woods drew 89,610 visitors in 2023. The Tour de Kilkenny returned for its 14th year in 2024, and brought cyclists from all over the country to Kilkenny in August. With distances that catered for cyclists of all abilities - the tour had 77km, 110km and 160km routes with the cycle starting and ending at Kilkenny Rugby Club. Community Radio Kilkenny City 88.7FM celebrated its 45th anniversary in August, and held a major open day to celebrate the significant milestone. Community radio in Kilkenny has had to overcome numerous hurdles in the last 45 years to continue providing this vital service for the people of Kilkenny. FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris at the age of 98. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside, following decades of seeking justice for his 39-year-old daughter. The beaten body of Ms Toscan du Plantier was found on an isolated pathway near her holiday home at Toormore near Schull, Co Cork, two days before Christmas in 1996. Her elderly parents, Georges and Marguerite Bouniol, often made an annual visit from Paris where they lived to west Cork to mark the anniversary of her murder. They usually travelled to attend an anniversary mass for their daughter with their son Bertrand and Sophies son Pierre-Louis. Mr Bouniols death comes days after the 28th anniversary of his daughters murder. The main suspect in her murder, Ian Bailey, died in Cork in January earlier this year aged 66. The British journalist was questioned twice by gardai investigating her death, but was never charged for the murder. Mr Bailey has long denied any involvement in her death. Mr Bailey, who lived at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of murder in his absence by a French court in May 2019. The three-judge court imposed a 25-year sentence. In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite him for the murder. In September this year, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that a cold case review into her murder should be completed before any decision on an inquiry was made. The Tanaiste Micheal Martin had also criticised the legal systems handling of the case, saying Ireland failed to find and convict a murderer. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Windy with thunderstorms this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 74F. Winds SSE at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Rain showers this evening with increasing winds and cloudy skies overnight. Low 36F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 40%. By Park Ung Pianist Han Tong-il, a pioneer in the Korean classical music scene, died on Sunday. He was 83. Han is celebrated as the first Korean classical musician to gain international recognition. He made history in 1965 by becoming the first Korean to win a prize at an international competition, securing a victory at the Leventritt Competition at Carnegie Hall in New York City. At just 23, Han impressed the jury, led by renowned American pianist Leonard Bernstein, as well as the audience, showcasing his talent to the international classical music scene as a pianist from a then lesser-known country. Born in 1941 in Hamhung, South Hamgyong Province, now in North Korea, Han started playing the piano at age 3. His father was a musician who later became a timpanist for the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra. Han learned piano from his father's friends during the 1950-53 Korean War. Soon after the war, Han headed to the United States with support from a U.S. Forces Korea commander who recognized his talent. He attended the Juilliard School on a scholarship, earning bachelor's and master's degrees. "Everybody wanted to help a boy playing Beethoven in war-torn Korea," Han said in a past interview. In 1962, Han performed at the White House at the invitation of then-U.S. President John F. Kennedy, sharing the stage with renowned cellist Pablo Casals. For some 37 years, Han continued his career as a pianist and an educator, teaching at institutions including Indiana University, Illinois State University, University of North Texas and Boston University. In recognition of his contributions to enhancing Korea's reputation in the classical music scene, he was awarded the Moran Medal, Koreas second-highest Order of Civil Merit, in 1973. After permanently returning to Seoul and regaining his Korean nationality in 2019, he served as a chair professor at the University of Ulsan and the Sunchon National University, dedicating his expertise to nurturing talent in his homeland. Throughout his nearly seven-decade career, Han collaborated with many world-class orchestras, such as the New York Philharmonic and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and released a handful of albums featuring piano sonatas composed by Chopin, Beethoven, Schubert and Brahms. His funeral service will be held at Severance Hospital in Seoul's Seodaemun District from Wednesday through Friday. By KTimes Hanni of K-pop girl group NewJeans was brought to tears following a chaotic incident at Incheon International Airport last Friday, as overzealous fans overwhelmed security and created a dangerous situation. The group was returning to Korea after attending the 9th Asia Artist Awards, or AAA, in Bangkok, Thailand, when the airport became packed with fans eager to see the members. The trouble began as soon as NewJeans entered the airport. Large crowds rushed toward the members, with some fans breaking through security to attempt excessive physical contact, including pulling on the members' hands. Others stayed uncomfortably close, repeatedly taking flash photos, adding to the confusion. The scene descended into further chaos with shouting and screams echoing through the airport. Amid the turmoil, Hanni appeared visibly shaken, leaning on her fellow members and wiping away tears. Videos from the incident, which circulated online, showed her emotional reaction, sparking concern among fans. Hanni addressed the situation last Saturday through NewJeans newly launched unofficial social media account, reassuring fans while urging for safer interactions. She wrote, Im okay now. Im so sorry for making you worry. I love all opportunities to meet our Bunnies (NewJeans official fan club), but I hope we can create moments where we can interact safely and comfortably without causing discomfort or dangerous situations. Please dont feel rushed. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times. By Kwon Mee-yoo When artist Park Seo-bo died in November 2023, Korea lost one of its most influential modern art figures, widely known for pioneering the dansaekhwa (monochrome painting) movement. Some 30 of his final works are being exhibited for the public for the first time at the Park Seo-Bo: The Newspaper Ecritures, 202223 at White Cube New York through Jan. 11. Created shortly before his passing at 91, these pieces revisit his experiments with newspapers in the 1970s, offering a reflection on time, memory and impermanence. At the core of Park's Ecriture series, which began in the '60s, lies a meditative process inspired by Taoist and Buddhist philosophies. By incising repeated pencil lines into wet paint, he approached each canvas as a moment of introspection. In his final "Newspaper Ecriture works, Park retained this spiritual essence while adding a new dimension by using dated newspapers as a backdrop, amplifying the theme of times passage. Parks return to Newspaper Ecriture was shaped by his awareness of his own mortality. Advanced age and terminal illness led him to work on a smaller scale, focusing on pieces that could be completed in a single sitting. The series incorporates newsprint from publications such as The New York Times, Le Monde and Chosun Ilbo, with many French papers referencing his time in France. The newspapers are adhered to "hanji" (traditional Korean mulberry paper), then layered with white paint and incised with gestural pencil strokes. This technique allows faded mastheads and text to peek through, creating a contrast between the fleeting nature of news and the enduring presence of art. On the reverse of each piece, Park recorded the time and location of its creation. This combination of symbolic record and inscription led curator Hans Ulrich Obrist to describe Park's work as an "atlas" or "encyclopedia," reflecting the melding of the concepts of time and creativity in his art. In several works, the dates of publication hold special meaning. For example, Ecriture No. 221109" uses a February 1939 issue of Le Petit Provencal with a note on the back reading, This newspaper was published on the day my wife, YOUN MYEONG-SOUK, was born. Similarly, Ecriture No. 221125 incorporates a November 1931 edition of L'Ordre, annotated with This newspaper was published on the day I was born. The Newspaper Ecritures bring Parks early ideas full circle, serving as the culmination of his six-decade artistic journey. His legacy continues to grow through the PARKSEOBO FOUNDATION, which plans to open two dedicated museums in Seoul and on Jeju Island in 2025. Early entry into 6th-generation HBM market seen as key strategy By Jun Ji-hye Koreas benchmark KOSPI is struggling, largely due to the poor performance of its top stock, Samsung Electronics, leading to growing attention on whether the company's stock price will rebound in 2025. The tech giant's stocks closed at 53,200 won ($36), Monday, the last trading day of 2024, down 0.93 percent from the previous session. Compared to the end of 2023, the price has fallen 32 percent. This contrasts sharply with the performance of Nvidia, the leading AI stock in the United States, which saw its stock price surge 177 percent in 2024. Shares of SK hynix, Samsungs competitor supplying semiconductors to Nvidia, displayed a 23 percent increase. Samsungs stocks briefly surged to 88,800 won in July 2024, nearing the 90,000-won mark, buoyed by second-quarter earnings that exceeded market expectations. However, concerns began to mount over delays in quality testing for Nvidias supply chain, sparking fears that Samsung could be sidelined in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) sector, a key area in the AI era. These concerns sparked a decline in the stock price. The situation worsened when Morgan Stanley issued a report predicting a "winter" for Koreas semiconductor industry. Uncertainties escalated due to concerns that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump might reduce semiconductor subsidies. On Nov. 14, Samsungs stock price dropped to 49,900 won, falling into the 40,000-won range for the first time in four years and five months. Samsung has hinted at the imminent start of Nvidia shipments, but it has not fully alleviated market skepticism. While the announcement of a 10 trillion won share buyback and confirmation of investment subsidies from the U.S. government have helped recover some of the stock price's losses, it remains stuck in the 50,000-won range. Amid lowered expectations of the chipmakers performance in 2024, forecasts for its 2025 earnings continue to be revised downward. According to financial data provider FnGuide, the companys projected annual operating profit for 2025 has been cut by 28 percent to 40.4 trillion won. Experts predict that Samsungs stock price will continue to face upward limitations due to declining prices of general-purpose memory semiconductors, driven by weak smartphone demand. Concerns also include expanded supplies by Chinese companies, potential tariffs under the upcoming Trump administration and a lack of competitiveness in HBM technology. The semiconductor downcycle has just begun, and there is a high likelihood that consensus on Samsungs earnings will be further revised downward. It will take more time for a substantial stock price rebound, iM Securities analyst Song Myung-seop said. Kim Dong-won, head of the research center at KB Securities, suggested entering the sixth-generation HBM market early as a key strategy for a clear rebound in stock prices. In the near term, Samsungs stock is expected to fluctuate within a range due to delayed earnings improvements caused by the slowdown in the general-purpose memory cycle, he said. Expanding the supply of HBM3E 12-layer products, early entry into the sixth-generation HBM market and restoring technological competitiveness in advanced processes will serve as future momentum for a stock price recovery. Rebuilding reputation and union conflicts remain challenges By Jun Ji-hye Private equity funds (PEFs) are expected to play a key role in corporate restructuring in 2025 as their influence in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market continues to grow. This trend began to emerge in 2024, as PEFs gained significant attention by driving corporate restructuring efforts amid an economic downturn that led to a decline in conglomerate-led M&A activities. By closing major M&A deals involving companies like SK Specialty and Lotte Rental, PEFs have significantly expanded their presence beyond the capital markets into the broader business world. SK Group has been the most active conglomerate in leveraging PEFs. In June, it sold SK Rent-a-Car to Hong Kong-based private equity firm, Affinity Equity Partners. In November, it divested the thin-film business of its battery materials subsidiary, SK Nexilis, to Affirma Capital, a domestic firm. In December, the group also agreed to sell an 85 percent stake in SK Specialty, a specialty gas producer, to Hahn & Company in its latest efforts to realign its business portfolio. Meanwhile, Taeyoung Group, struggling with financial difficulties, sold Ecorbit, the nations largest waste management company, to a consortium between IMM Private Equity and IMM Investment in August. Corporate restructuring through PEFs offers a win-win strategy for both sides, an official from one of the domestic private equity firms said. For large corporations, it provides an easy way to enhance operational efficiency, while for PEFs, it secures lucrative opportunities. Additionally, it allows PEFs to leverage the talent nurtured within the corporate system and tap into existing client networks. Industry officials and experts noted that the ongoing ownership fight between Korea Zinc and an alliance between MBK Partners and Young Poong is also expected to provide a platform that will elevate discussions on corporate governance in the country, though it is still uncertain which side will prevail. As both sides engage in a battle for shareholder support, they are competitively suggesting measures on how to enhance corporate value and protect shareholder interests. This has led to debates on issues such as how to maintain the independence of the board of directors and what the practical benefits of good governance are. However, PEFs are not immune to criticism, as their primary goal is to gain investment returns by selling the acquired companies, which often leads to them being labeled as corporate raiders. This raises concerns that M&As might be misused purely for exit strategies. As an increasing number of PEFs have adopted a more activist approach, involving themselves in corporate management for the sake of shareholder rights, they also face growing risks of opposition from political circles, civic groups and minority shareholders. Even when PEFs emphasize sustainable management, they struggle to gain internal support. Resistance often arises during efforts to restructure businesses, leading to conflicts with unions. As a result, PEFs are expected to face a heavier burden in managing complex external conflicts and reputation issues. Experts advise that PEFs need to redefine their position by working to build an image as rational market participants, considering public resentment over the large sums of money earned through M&As, combined with their closed operational culture and reluctance to speak publicly. PEFs strictly follow economic logic, but also play a significant positive role, Shin Jin-young, a professor at Yonsei Universitys business school, said. They need to shift away from their previous attitude of avoiding exposure and develop stronger communication skills to actively persuade stakeholders. Korea will implement a new trade rule this week focusing on offering broader support for companies impacted by free trade agreements (FTAs) and other trade pacts, the industry ministry said Tuesday. The Act on Addressing Changes in Trade Environment, an upgraded version of the Act on Trade Adjustment Assistance, will take effect Wednesday to provide more comprehensive support to companies affected by trade deals, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. Under the new law, the government will support companies impacted not only by FTAs but also by other types of trade agreements, including the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement. The rule also provides support to companies impacted by changes in the trade of raw materials, intermediate goods and final products, moving beyond the previous regulation, which limited assistance to businesses directly affected by increased imports of specific products under FTAs. The government will also offer support to companies that experience a drop of more than 5 percent in their sales or production, lowering the threshold from the previous 10 percent. It will further aim to help enhance the competitiveness of technology and management in such companies instead of offering one-off financial support, the ministry said. "The government will continue to support companies to help them proactively address changes in the global business environment," the ministry added. (Yonhap) Korea unlikely to attain ambitious goal of attracting 20 million inbound tourists by end-of-year By Lee Hae-rin Korea will consider a pilot program next year allowing Chinese tour groups to enter the country without a visa, as part of efforts to recover from setbacks in the tourism sector caused by President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief imposition of martial law and subsequent impeachment, the government said Thursday. The initiative, aimed at boosting the nations tourism industry, was revealed during a meeting led by acting President Han Duck-soo at the National Museum of Korea in Yongsan District, Seoul. The meeting was attended by ministers and vice ministers from 11 ministries, as well as tourism industry officials and experts. The measures come amid concerns that the aftermath of the martial law fiasco could extend into the first half of next year. As the number of inbound visitors to Korea this year stood at 13.74 million from January to October, according to the Korea Tourism Organization, the countrys ambitious goal of bringing 20 million by the end of the year is unlikely to be achieved amid the ongoing political turmoil. The government has set a target of attracting 18.5 million foreign tourists next year. While this is lower than this year's target of 20 million, it exceeds the 17.5 million figure from 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, when foreign tourist numbers to Korea reached a record high. To achieve this, the government is actively considering allowing Chinese tour groups to enter the country without a visa. Currently, Chinese tourists are allowed to stay visa-free for up to 30 days, but only on Jeju Island. The government did not specify the duration of the visa waiver initiative. The move comes after the Chinese government implemented a visa waiver program for South Koreans. Since Nov. 8, the Chinese government has allowed passport holders from nine countries, including South Korea, to stay in China without a visa for up to 15 days. Chinese tour groups arriving by cruise ship can also disembark in Korea without a visa and stay for up to three days. The government will push for the plan as a pilot project and decide whether to make it a permanent rule after 2026. To prevent the potential for illegal immigration, the government will grant visa-free stays only to tourists invited by authorized Chinese tour group agencies. It will also strengthen regulatory measures for travel agencies to better prevent illegal stays. Meanwhile, the temporary exemption from the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) for foreigners entering Korea without a visa will be extended for another year until December 2025. In addition, the temporary exemption of visa fees ($15) for tourist groups from six countries, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia and India, will also be extended until the end of next year. The government also plans to actively host large-scale events and campaigns in the first half of next year to attract foreign tourists, allocating about 70 percent of the annual tourism budget for these initiatives. It will expand the Korea Grand Sale, held annually from January to February, to offer tourists discounts on airline tickets, department store goods, duty free products and convenience store items. Additionally, a Hallyu festival will be held in June next year. The Korea Beauty Festival will be expanded from June to July next year, and activities will be hosted to cater to foreigners visiting the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, inviting them to also go sightseeing in Korea. "The world's interest in Korean culture is driving more people to visit Korea, turning the everyday lives of Koreans into a key part of the tourism experience, Han said, noting that the countrys tourism market has recovered to pre-COVID levels. "Concerns persist that the recent domestic situation may hinder the recovery of Korea's tourism market. The government will implement various measures to facilitate the tourism market's recovery," he added. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has inspected a new tourist zone along the country's east coast, stressing that the project is the "first big step" in advancing the country's tourism, state media reported Tuesday. Kim looked around newly completed hotels and other service facilities in the Kalma coastal tourist area on Sunday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said, adding that the zone will open for service in June next year. The tourist area has been under development since 2014 as part of a project to harness the sandy beach of Myongsasimni on Wonsan's Kalma peninsula for tourism. Calling the place "very spectacular, beautiful and magnificent," Kim expressed "great satisfaction" and said that the service facilities, built "at a high level," could be utilized for important external, political and cultural state events. The development of the tourist industry "will open up a new realm of socialist cultural construction and bring about another motive force for promoting regional rejuvenation and national economic growth," he noted. The Kalma coastal tourist area's development is "the first big step" in advancing the country's tourist industry, Kim stated, ordering "proactively exploiting the tourist resources in other regions." North Korea has turned to tourism as a means of earning foreign currency, as its tourism industry is not subject to international sanctions. The country is widely expected to try to attract Russian tourists once the Kalma tourist zone opens in June. Photos of Kim's latest inspection, released by the KCNA, showed his daughter, believed to be named Ju-ae, accompanying him on the trip. This is her first public appearance since Oct. 31, when she was present at the site of an intercontinental ballistic missile test. Images showed her walking down a beach with her arm linked with Kim's and touring hotel facilities alongside her father. The visit to the tourist zone marks Kim's second reported inspection of an economy-related facility since the conclusion of the annual year-end plenary party meeting on Friday, a move seen as highlighting the country's economic achievements in 2024. (Yonhap) U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's secretary of state nominee has expressed "deep condolences" over a recent deadly plane crash in Korea, which claimed the lives of 179 people. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, nominated to serve as secretary of state for Trump's second term, wrote on the social media platform X on Monday (U.S. time), "Our hearts go out to the Korean people. We share in your grief over the tragic loss of 179 people." On Sunday, a Jeju Air plane from Bangkok crashed into the outer wall of Muan International Airport in southwest Korea during a belly landing, leaving 179 of the 181 people on board dead. "We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones amid this immeasurable pain," Rubio said, adding, "Our prayers are with you and your great nation." The message is the first expression of condolences from Trump's team over the plane crash. On the day of the tragedy, U.S. President Joe Biden said that he and first lady Jill Biden are "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and pledged to provide any necessary assistance. (Yonhap) By Kim Hyun-bin A majority of Koreans support a special counsel investigation into allegations involving first lady Kim Keon Hee, according to a Hankook Research survey. The poll, which surveyed 1,000 people from Thursday to Friday, found that 73 percent of the respondents believe a thorough probe is necessary. In particular, 61 percent of respondents consider a special counsel probe "strongly necessary," while 12 percent find it "somewhat necessary." The overwhelming majority reflects the public's strong demand for transparency and accountability. In contrast, 25 percent of those surveyed said an investigation is unnecessary. Among them, 9 percent said it is "not very necessary," and 16 percent believe it is "not necessary at all." About 2 percent were unsure or did not respond. President Yoon Suk Yeol has faced continued scrutiny over controversies involving his wife, which have significantly impacted his administration since before his election. These issues include allegations of stock manipulation, academic plagiarism, acceptance of luxury gifts and undue influence in state affairs. Throughout Yoon's two-and-a-half years in office, these controversies have cast a shadow over his policy initiatives, leading to a decline in his approval ratings. Despite these challenges, Yoon has consistently dismissed the allegations as "exaggerated claims" by political opponents, saying that his wife has been unfairly targeted. One of the most contentious issues has been the special counsel bill, which will appoint a special prosecutor to investigate allegations against the first lady. Yoon has vetoed the act three times, but it was recently passed by the National Assembly for the fourth time. At a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, acting President Choi Sang-mok vetoed the bill again, saying that it requires more stringent standards, as certain clauses do not align with the Constitution. Public opinion has been heavily influenced by Yoon's handling of these scandals. Polls indicate that his management of the issues surrounding his wife is a major factor contributing to his low approval ratings. A significant scandal erupted in November 2023 when a liberal YouTube news channel released footage of a Korean American pastor giving a Dior handbag to Kim in September 2022. The pastor recorded the interaction with a hidden camera. Opposition parties accused the first lady of violating anti-graft laws, but the presidential office defended her, arguing that she was the victim of a politically motivated attack. After a lengthy investigation, prosecutors dropped all charges related to the handbag incident in October. In the same month, prosecutors also decided not to indict Kim for her alleged involvement in a stock manipulation scheme involving Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealership. While investigators confirmed that manipulation had occurred, they concluded that Kim was unaware of the misuse of her financial accounts. This decision drew strong criticism from opposition parties. Another controversy emerged when Myung Tae-kyun, a self-proclaimed political broker, came under investigation for allegedly influencing candidate nominations during the 2022 parliamentary by-elections through his connections with Yoon and his wife. Myung released screenshots of text messages exchanged with Kim, revealing that she appeared to seek his advice during Yoon's presidential campaign. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. President Yoon Suk Yeol's legal defense team plans to seek an injunction to suspend a detention warrant issued against the impeached president over his failed martial law bid, one of his lawyers said Tuesday, while criticizing the warrant as "illegal." Earlier in the day, the Seoul Western District Court approved a request from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) to issue the warrant for Yoon on charges of masterminding the botched Dec. 3 martial law declaration, orchestrating the insurrection and abusing power, according to the CIO. The court also approved a warrant to search Yoon's presidential residence in Seoul's Yongsan in connection with the investigation. Yun Gap-geun, one of Yoon's legal representatives, said the arrest and search warrants issued upon request by the CIO are "illegal and invalid" because the CIO has "no investigative rights" on charges of insurrection. "It is shocking and difficult to accept that a warrant requested by an agency that has no investigative rights was issued," Yun told reporters. "It is clear that the current detention warrant is illegal. (We) regret the court decision." Yun said the defense team plans to file for an injunction to suspend the warrant's effect, as well as request the Constitutional Court to review the constitutionality of the warrant. The CIO filed for the detention warrant after Yoon ignored all three summonses to appear for questioning over the short-lived martial law invocation. Yun defended Yoon's rejection of the summonses, saying investigators did not consult with them to coordinate an appearance by the president. "(He) is not receiving preferential treatment because he is a person of power, rather he is suffering disadvantages," the lawyer said. Yun also said there was no reason for Yoon to avoid an investigation, saying he plans to face any investigative authorities "confidently" and "by law" if they follow legal procedures. Yoon will make his stance over his declaration of martial law at an "appropriate" time, the lawyer said, adding he will likely appear at his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court at least once. (Yonhap) Defense attorney refuses to cooperate with illegal summons By Jung Min-ho A Seoul court issued a warrant, Tuesday, to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning over his decision to impose martial law on Dec. 3. According to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), the warrant was approved by the Seoul Western District Court on charges of leading an insurrection and abusing power regarding the decree that was later lifted by the National Assembly. This is the first warrant issued to detain a sitting president in the nation's history. Speaking to reporters, a CIO investigator said the anti-corruption agency will execute the warrant by Jan. 6, adding that the methods for implementation will be discussed with the police. President Yoon will be questioned at the CIO office or at a police station near his location, the official said. After questioning, he could be detained at the Seoul Detention Center, but nothing has been determined yet. With that warrant, investigators can detain Yoon for questioning for up to 48 hours. If they want to arrest him, they have to ask the court to issue an arrest warrant. The CIO requested the detention warrant after Yoon ignored all three summons to appear for interrogation over allegations that he committed treason and abused power by declaring martial law illegally and unconstitutionally. The court also approved a warrant to search his residence in Yongsan District, Seoul, in connection with the investigation. However, his attorney, Yoon Gap-geun, rejected the court's decision, saying his legal team will file an injunction with the Constitutional Court to challenge its validity. Its shocking that the warrant requested by an organization that doesnt have investigative power over insurrection-related allegations has been issued. Its utterly unacceptable, the lawyer said, calling the warrant "illegal and invalid." His lawyers have argued that the CIO has no legal basis required to investigate insurrection, a charge for which, by law, only the police can investigate. But the CIO said the law permits it to investigate allegations of abuse of power and other directly-related crimes perceived during its investigations. But it remains to be seen whether the investigators can detain him. In previous attempts, the Presidential Security Service blocked them from entering his office and residence, citing national security concerns. Shortly after the court approved the warrant, the security agency said it will continue to commit to its task of protecting the president in accordance with due process. Although Yoon has presidential immunity from criminal prosecution, the privilege does not extend to accusations of insurrection or treason. If the presidential bodyguards block investigators from enforcing the warrant physically, the CIO warned they could be prosecuted for obstruction of justice. Rep. Kwon Young-se, interim leader of the ruling People Power Party, called the attempt to detain the president "inappropriate" and "deeply regretful" in remarks defending him. He argued that it was unnecessary, as there is no flight risk. A Seoul court will hold its first pre-trial hearing next month for former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who faces charges of insurrection and abuse of power over the brief imposition of martial law, judicial officials said Tuesday. The preparatory hearing for Kim's trial will take place Jan. 16 at the Seoul Central District Court for the defense to lay out its case and to coordinate the schedule for evidence examinations. Kim is not required to attend the hearing. On Friday, prosecutors indicted Kim under detention on charges of engaging in "essential" activities for an insurrection and abusing his power through President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched declaration of martial law on Dec. 3. Kim is the first to be indicted in the investigations into the short-lived martial law episode. He is accused of sending troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from voting on a motion to reject Yoon's martial law declaration, as well as to the offices of the election watchdog to check election fraud suspicions. He also allegedly ordered troops to arrest key politicians, including the leaders of the ruling People Power Party and the main opposition Democratic Party. In Kim's indictment, prosecutors accused Yoon of ordering troops and police to arrest lawmakers and "drag" them out from the National Assembly. (Yonhap) The captain of a car ferry that capsized off the southwestern coast was found dead inside the ship, the Coast Guard said Tuesday. The captain was among five people who went missing after the vessel, presumed to be carrying seven people, capsized in waters west of Seosan, about 100 kilometers southwest of Seoul, on Monday evening. Two people were rescued. The body of the captain was found on the second floor of the ship at 4:34 a.m. in a state of cardiac arrest and was later pronounced dead, according to the Coast Guard. Search and rescue efforts were under way to find the remaining four still missing. The Coast Guard mobilized some 20 ships for the search efforts overnight, with plans to deploy five helicopters in the morning and bring in all personnel to search the coastal area. (Yonhap) Government probes local installation regulations By KTimes Debate is intensifying over whether the design of a structure at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province exacerbated the impact of the recent Jeju Air passenger plane crash. Experts argue that the structure, constructed with soil and concrete in a tall and rigid design, amplified the impact and worsened the resulting damage. The government maintains that the facility complies with both domestic and international regulations. However, revelations that design guidelines from four years ago recommended breakable materials to minimize damage have further fueled the controversy. The localizer, a safety facility guiding aircraft during landing, has been criticized for being constructed with rigid materials, contrary to international standards. During a morning briefing on Tuesday, the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters emphasized that the localizer was constructed in accordance with domestic regulations. Joo Jong-wan, head of the aviation policy division at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, said, The localizer is installed outside the runways end safety area and is therefore not subject to guidelines under the Airport Facilities Act. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines mandate that objects or facilities in the runway and adjacent safety area should be made of materials that easily break or deform upon impact to minimize damage to aircraft. Additionally, structures should be designed with minimal height and weight where necessary. Koreas aviation safety operation standards also require that foundations for approved installations in runway safety areas should not extend more than 7.5 centimeters above ground and must be breakable. Experts suspect that the localizer the ill-fated aircraft slammed into likely violated such regulations. The structure was built on a mound reinforced with concrete, standing approximately 4 meters tall, with the concrete estimated to be 1 meter thick. Both ends of Muan Airports runway feature similar structures, with the crash site located 251 meters south of the runways end. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport stated that the localizer, located approximately 260 meters from the runways end, is outside the combined safety area, meeting compliance requirements. However, Kwon Bo-heon, a professor of aviation safety management at Far East University, said, The rigid construction of the localizer likely worsened the accidents severity. Video footage shows the aircraft sliding smoothly along the runway before colliding with the mound and erupting into flames. He said that had the localizer adhered to guidelines for height and material, the aircraft might have stopped without exploding. Kwon said, At the time Muan International Airport was designed, international standards applied to structures within 150 meters of the runway, adding, Aircraft have become larger, and there is no need to cling to outdated regulations. Experts worldwide have echoed these concerns. David Learmount, a former Royal Air Force aviation expert, told Sky News that the crash resulted in flames because the aircraft collided with a rigid structure, leading to fatalities. Such a hard structure shouldnt have been there, he said. Aviation experts agree that the collision of the aircraft with the localizer, which led to the fuselage breaking apart and a subsequent fire, highlights the need for a comprehensive review of localizer regulations. They emphasize that rules requiring the installation of runway end safety areas and the use of breakable materials for aviation facilities should be viewed as essential multi-layered safety measures to minimize damage in the event of accidents. Joo, head of the ministrys aviation policy division, said, Future investigations will assess what might have happened if the concrete structure had not been present. For context, localizers at airports like Incheon International are buried into the ground, whereas Jeju, Yeosu, and Pohang-Gyeongju airports feature structures similar to Muans. U.S. airports such as Los Angeles International also reportedly employ comparable designs. However, Muan airport officials maintain that their localizer complies with existing regulations. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times. A team of investigators from the U.S. government and aircraft manufacturer Boeing have arrived at the site of the Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport to participate in the investigation into the incident, Seoul officials said Tuesday. According to Seoul's transport ministry, one member from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, three experts from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and four representatives from Boeing have joined officials of Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board (ARAIB) for the investigation at the site of the accident. The U.S. team arrived in Korea on Monday via Incheon International Airport and traveled directly to Muan, some 290 kilometers southwest of Seoul, to prepare for the investigation. "Korean and U.S. investigators discussed the schedule procedures and specific areas of focus for the investigation," Joo Jong-wan, head of aviation policy at the transport ministry, said at a press briefing. Under the International Civil Aviation Organization convention, the country where the accident occurred is responsible for initiating the investigation. Countries with stakeholders in the incident, such as the aircraft's operator and manufacturer, and nations with victims have the right to participate. Thailand, which had two nationals die in the accident, has reportedly chosen not to take part in this investigation. The U.S. and Boeing representatives, together with 11 members of Korea's ARAIB, are currently assessing the wreckage and debris at the crash site, searching for components that could offer clues about the cause of the accident, according to the ministry. Following the on-site probe, the investigation will proceed to the analysis phase, which will involve examining the recovered evidence and data extracted from the aircraft's two black boxes. The aircraft's flight data recorder, one of the black boxes, was found to have suffered exterior damage. The recorder was also found to be missing a connector that links its data storage unit to the power supply. "Authorities are examining technical methods to extract the data despite the absence of the connector," Joo said. The second black box, the cockpit voice recorder, is reportedly in a relatively better condition. The investigation team will soon decide whether to attempt repairs and analysis of the damaged black box domestically or to send the device to the NTSB in the U.S. for further examination. Joo added there were two air traffic controllers on duty at the airport at the time of the crash. Investigators have spoken with both to hear their account of the incident but decided not to release the information as of now. The government said it will suspend operations of Muan International Airport until Jan. 7 and decide on its reopening at a later date. (Yonhap) DNA results not until Jan. 8 By KTimes The temporary shelter at Muan International Airport became a sea of tears on Monday as grieving families were informed of delays in the recovery and identification of the victims of the Jeju Air crash. "We cant even hold a funeral until next Wednesday (Jan. 8). My grandchild hasnt been identified yet. I cant even send them off properly. Oh, my poor baby A grandmothers wails from one of the makeshift tents resonated across the airport, soon followed by sobs from other families. Living in tents labeled with identification numbers like "110" or "79" instead of their loved ones' names, families were devastated to hear they might not be able to claim the remains of their relatives until next Wednesday. Na Won-oh, head of the South Jeolla Provincial Police Agencys investigative department, said Monday that identifying the victims of the Jeju Air crash may take until at least Jan. 8. During a briefing at Muan International Airport, Na said, "Weve sent the victims remains to the National Forensic Service (NFS), but even with maximum effort and focus, preliminary DNA results wont be available until next Wednesday." Of the 179 fatalities, the majority of bodies were severely damaged, making identification a painstaking process. Na added, "Apart from five bodies, it will be difficult to return remains to the families in a recognizable condition. For the rest, funeral procedures cannot proceed until DNA identification is complete." Police considering interim handovers Acknowledging the grief and urgency felt by families, police are exploring options to hand over remains sooner if families consent. An official from the South Jeolla Police Agency said, "If the medical examiner determines that remains can be released, we are consulting with the NFS to hand them over with written consent from the families." Currently, all victims remains have been moved to temporary mortuaries, with the identities of 141 victims confirmed as of 9 a.m. on Monday. The police are using fingerprints to identify victims when possible,and relying on DNA analysis for those whose fingerprints were destroyed or not registered. Grief reverberated throughout Muan International Airport as families identified their loved ones. Near the hangar where some remains were stored, cries and wails from relatives echoed. One woman screamed, "Bring them back! This cant be real! Take me instead!" Volunteers from the disaster psychological recovery center quickly closed the tent doors, fearing the scene would deepen the anguish of other families. However, muffled sobs continued to emanate from every tent. A woman surnamed Ko, a 72-year-old whose son and daughter-in-law were among the victims, sat in a daze near the airports entrance. "Honestly, Im scared," she said. "I went to see my childs face for the last time, but I fear theyll only show me fragments of flesh. Still, I must see it through its my childs face," she said, breaking into tears. Ko, who spent the previous night sitting on a bench, remained by the airport entrance throughout the afternoon. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times. The remains of 174 of the 179 people killed in this week's Jeju Air plane crash have tentatively been identified, the land ministry said Tuesday. During a briefing for victims' families at Muan International Airport in the county 288 kilometers south of Seoul, the ministry said it is still checking to identify the remaining five victims. "Of the 32 people who could not be identified by fingerprints, we identified 17 people in the first DNA test and 10 more in the second round," it said. "We are further confirming the remaining five due to DNA inconsistencies." The bodies of four of the identified victims have been handed over to their families, and funeral arrangements have begun at their respective hometowns this day, according to officials. Officials earlier said it could take up to 10 days for all the remains to be identified and delivered to the bereaved families as most of the bodies were severely charred. Authorities are preserving the remains of the victims in a temporary cold storage facility in a hangar at the Muan airport. A team of U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and Boeing officials also arrived at the scene earlier in the day to support South Korean authorities with the investigation. Only two people, both flight attendants, survived after the plane belly-landed and crashed into a barrier on Sunday, killing 179 of the 181 people onboard. (Yonhap) By Lee Hae-rin The remains of 174 out of 179 people killed in Sunday's fatal Jeju Air plane crash have been identified, with rescue authorities still scrambling to identify the remaining five, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said Tuesday. Of the 32 people who could not be identified by fingerprints, we identified 17 people in the first DNA test and 10 more in the second round, a ministry official said during a briefing for the victims families at Muan International Airport. We are further confirming the remaining five due to DNA inconsistencies," the official added. Only five out of 179 bodies were found intact, yet in severely damaged condition. The bodies recovered at the crash site were separated into 606 parts, according to rescue authorities. The bodies of four of the identified victims were handed over to their families on Monday, and funeral arrangements have begun at their respective hometowns, according to officials. The remaining 175 are currently kept in cold storage containers that the government set up inside the airport. Originally, identification of all 179 victims was scheduled to be completed by Tuesday but was delayed due to difficulties in DNA matching. The police and the National Forensic Service (NFS) plan to complete DNA testing of the remaining bodies by Friday at the earliest. Once the autopsy is completed, the bodies will be moved to a funeral home that each bereaved family selected. "It may be difficult to deliver the body immediately. We need to collect the DNA-identified body from the NFS and deliver it to the bereaved families after the authorities conduct a medical examination," Na Won-oh, head of the investigation department at the South Jeolla Provincial Police Agency, said. "We expect that it will be possible to deliver the body as early as next Monday," Na said. Meanwhile, a team from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and Boeing officials also arrived at the scene to support the investigation of the cause of the accident. New acting President Choi Sang-mok asked related agencies for timely support for the bereaved families, saying, "We will do our best to support the bereaved families and identify the cause of the accident." Six domestic airlines that operate the Boeing 737-800 Jeju Air, Korean Air, Eastar Jet, T'way Air, Jin Air and Air Incheon will go through special safety inspections, he said. The catastrophic plane crash on Sunday killed 179 of the 181 people on board as the plane belly-landed and slammed into a concrete fence for yet unidentified reasons. Aviation experts on Tuesday highlighted the need to revise regulations governing airport safety, including those on runway safety zones, amid growing views that a concrete structure near the runway may have exacerbated the severity of casualties in the Jeju Air crash this week. The concrete structure near the runway at Muan International Airport holds a navigation system that assists in aircraft landings, known as a localizer, and is located about 250 meters from the end of the runway. The Jeju Air B737-800 aircraft belly-landed at the airport and exploded Sunday as it crashed into the structure, killing 179 of the 181 people on board. Many experts have suggested the casualty count could have been much lower had the concrete structure not existed. The transport ministry has defended the positioning of the localizer, stating that it was installed in compliance with existing regulations. The government's aviation obstacle management guideline requires all equipment or installations deemed obstacles on airport premises to be mounted on frangible structures, but this applies only within the designated runway end safety area (RESA). RESA refers to the zone beyond the end of the runway designed to prevent aircraft damage in the event of an overrun or landing short of the runway. The ministry said the localizer equipment at Muan was not subject to this requirement, as it had been set up outside the airport's 199 meter-long RESA. The minimum required RESA distance under international standards is 90 meters, according to the ministry, though the recommended distance is 240 meters. The ministry acknowledged that some domestic airports, including those in Sacheon, Gyeongju and Muan, have RESAs shorter than the recommended 240 meters. A separate government guideline pertaining to the design of airport and airfield facilities, meanwhile, stipulates that localizers should be included within the extended RESA for precision approach runways. Experts, however, have emphasized the need to revise related regulations, with most agreeing that the presence of the localizer exacerbated the impact of the crash. "While there may be no legal issues under current rules, these regulations date back to a time when accidents like this hadn't occurred," said Chung Yoon-shik, an aviation professor at Catholic Kwandong University. "Now that an accident has happened, the regulations need to be improved," he added. Hwang Ho-won, a professor of aerospace law at Korea Aerospace University, echoed such a view, insisting that the issue is not solely about RESA distances. "The improperly installed concrete mound should first be removed and an engineered materials arrestor system (EMAS) should be installed," Hwang said. EMAS allows aircraft to sink into a lightweight material, which helps planes to rapidly decelerate when overrunning a runway. Hwang added, "For airports with shorter RESA, an EMAS can significantly increase friction to reduce the speed of aircraft, enhancing safety during overruns or aborted takeoffs." (Yonhap) Leaders of Korea's business organizations visited joint memorial altars Tuesday to pay their respects to the victims of the tragic Jeju Air crash, joining the nationwide mourning. Sohn Kyung-shik, chairman of the Korea Enterprises Federation, visited a memorial altar set up in front of Seoul City Hall to offer condolences for the 179 people who lost their lives in the plane crash in Muan County, southwestern Korea, on Sunday. Yoon Jin-sik, head of the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), also paid his respects at the Seoul memorial altar, according to industry officials. In observance of the government-declared nationwide mourning period, lasting until Saturday, KITA had canceled its year-end party originally scheduled for Monday. Several companies have also canceled or postponed their New Year's events. Hyundai Motor Group has decided to delay their New Year's kickoff meeting to Monday from Friday. The event, which typically features Chair Euisun Chung, is one of the group's major yearly gatherings. Additionally, Hyundai Motor Group has lowered flags at its headquarters in southern Seoul as a sign of respect. The moves follow a wave of similar gestures by many others to pay respects to those lost in the tragedy that marked the worst aviation accident for the country in over two decades. Many prominent business organizations, including the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federation of Middle Market Enterprises of Korea, have issued statements offering condolences to the victims and their bereaved families, while postponing or calling off all festive events planned for the year's end and the New Year. The government has set up nearly 90 memorial altars in 17 major cities and provinces across the nation to allow anyone to visit and pay their respects to the deceased. (Yonhap) By Jung Da-hyun More than 70 percent of Koreans disapprove of President Yoon Suk Yeols leadership, with his botched imposition of martial law emerging as a key factor behind the dissatisfaction, according to a poll by The Korea Times. The survey showed that 72 percent of the 1,000 respondents disapprove of Yoon's performance in office, while 24 percent expressed a positive view of his performance. Notably, 60 percent said they "strongly disapprove" of his job performance. The findings show a rise in disapproval compared to a similar poll conducted in March, where 61 percent of 1,002 respondents expressed dissatisfaction with Yoons handling of his job. Disapproval of Yoons leadership varied across age groups. Those aged 40 to 49 were the most dissatisfied with Yoon's leadership, with 90 percent expressing disapproval, followed by respondents aged 18 to 29 at 84 percent, 30 to 39 at 81 percent and 50 to 59 at 75 percent. Older age groups showed comparatively lower disapproval rates, with 55 percent of those aged 60 to 69 disapproving of Yoons performance and just 47 percent of respondents aged 70 and older expressing dissatisfaction. Among those who disapprove of Yoon's leadership, 56 percent cited his mishandling of the short-lived martial law on Dec. 3 as the primary reason. Scandals involving individuals close to Yoon followed at 10 percent, while 9 percent cited his failure to stabilize the economy, control prices and improve people's livelihoods. The Korea Times poll also highlighted shifts in political party support, with 39 percent of respondents backing the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), compared to 25 percent for the ruling People Power Party (PPP). This marks a reversal from a survey in March conducted before the April 10 general elections, where the PPP led with 37 percent, narrowly edging out the DPK at 35 percent. The latest poll shows a decline in support for the ruling party, while the DPK has gained momentum. Approval ratings for minor parties remained at relatively low levels. Support for the Rebuilding Korea Party, founded by Cho Kuk, a former justice minister under the previous liberal Moon Jae-in administration, stood at 8 percent, followed by the Reform Party, led by former PPP chief Lee Jun-seok, with 3 percent, and the Progressive Party at 1 percent. Meanwhile, 21 percent of respondents expressed disapproval of all political parties. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. By Jung Min-ho When former President Park Geun-hye was embroiled in a political crisis due to an influence-peddling scandal, which ultimately led to her impeachment by the National Assembly on Dec. 9, 2016, public opinion turned sharply against her leadership. Voters were widely unified in their disapproval, and her approval ratings plummeted to as low as 4 percent in some polls. President Yoon Suk Yeol has not suffered the same levels of backlash despite his declaration of martial law, a far more serious violation of the law and the Constitution in the eyes of many. In major surveys, his approval rating never dropped below the 10 percent mark and it is now bouncing back to as high as over 30 percent after his impeachment by the National Assembly. The Korea Times surveyed 1,000 people through Hankook Research and found that extreme political polarization may be one of the reasons. When asked whether the Constitutional Court should uphold the impeachment motion against Yoon, 98 percent of supporters of the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) said the court should remove the president by upholding the impeachment, while 85 percent of supporters of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) said the court should dismiss it. Meanwhile, 100 percent of the minor liberal Rebuilding Korea Partys supporters asserted that it should be upheld. When asked whether they agree that Yoon committed treason by declaring and implementing emergency martial law on Dec. 3, 98 percent of DPK supporters said they believe he did, while 81 percent of PPP supporters said they do not. Among PPP supporters, only 12 percent agreed, while 2 percent gave no response. Their perceptions about Yoon's job approval as president were also vastly divided. When asked about his job performance, 93 percent of DPK supporters said he has done a very poor job, while the remaining 7 percent said he has done poorly. Not a single respondent from the group gave a positive assessment. On the other hand, 30 percent of PPP supporters said he has done a very good job, while 44 percent of them said he has done a good job. Only 22 percent of them assessed his job performance negatively. Experts say these results reflect the highly polarized state of the countrys politics, even more so than during Parks impeachment crisis eight years ago. This polarization has been visibly demonstrated in Seoul, where tens of thousands of anti- and pro-Yoon rally-goers have filled the streets every weekend since the martial law debacle. Politicians of both major parties are to blame for this deep division, as many focus more on intensifying it for their political advantage rather than working together in order to provide actual solutions, Cho Jin-man, a politics professor at Duksung Womens University, told The Korea Times. Cho believes that one of the main factors contributing to unity among PPP supporters is their shared sentiment against DPK leader Lee Jae-myung, as well as their collective experience of the aftermath following Parks removal from office. I think many highly disapprove of Lee as a potential next leader. They also fear that, with the DPK holding a majority in the Assembly, if he takes power, liberals de facto political revenge under the guise of an anti-corruption campaign would be far more aggressive, said the scholar. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. By Jung Min-ho Despite standing trial for 12 criminal charges, including an election law violation for which he was convicted seven weeks ago, Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), remains a heavy favorite to win the next presidential election, according to the latest poll by The Korea Times. About 35 percent of the respondents said they would support Lee, far ahead of his potential rivals such as Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo (7 percent), former People Power Party (PPP) leader Han Dong-hoon (5 percent) and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon (4 percent) among others, the poll showed. His support is particularly strong among DPK supporters (71 percent), voters in their 40s (43 percent) as well as those who live in Jeolla provinces (53 percent), a longtime stronghold for liberal parties. Han, once a dominant leading contender of the conservative party, apparently lost popularity after months of friction with President Yoon Suk Yeol. Meanwhile, Hong, who defended the president over many controversial issues including his martial law decision, emerged to take the lead. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik was the second favorite among DPK contenders, with 4 percent choosing him. Woo came to the spotlight after showing leadership to rescind Yoons martial law decree shortly after its imposition on late Dec. 3. Gyeonggi Gov. Kim Dong-yeon, another DPK heavyweight, was just behind him at 3 percent. Asked what qualities and skills they were looking for in presidential candidates, 33 percent said they would prioritize the ability to understand the economy, followed by leadership (22 percent), the ability to cooperate with other parties holding different views (18 percent), ethics (17 percent) and ideological orientation (8 percent). The poll showed that young people, aged between 18 and 29, particularly value the ability to understand the economy, with 49 percent picking it as their priority. Yet once push comes to shove, one possibly a new contender not mentioned in the polls could emerge to challenge Lees dominance, given that 34 percent said they did not want to vote for any of those mentioned in the list or gave no response. Another indicator of this possibility is the gap between the approval ratings for the DPK (39 percent) and the PPP (25 percent), which may not be a wide enough margin to signal Lee's dominance. It is also possible that Lee may be banned from running for public office. Under the Supreme Courts guidelines, the trial for his election law violation is expected to finish five months from now. If it is upheld by the appeals and the top court, he will be stripped of the right to run for public office for 10 years. This will mean a de facto end to the 61-year-olds political career. The Korea Times commissioned this survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. China's Guangdong sets up standardization committee for booming low-altitude economy Global Times) 08:50, December 31, 2024 This photo taken on Nov. 13, 2024, shows exhibits related to low-altitude economy at Airshow China in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province. A low-altitude economy area is set at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China, showcasing related products and application scenarios. (Photo/Xinhua) South China's Guangdong Province on Monday established the country's first provincial-level low-altitude economy standardization technical committee, further adding to growing positive developments for the booming sector in China. The committee, approved by the Guangdong Administration for Market Supervision, is tasked with managing the technical standardization efforts within the low-altitude economy across the province. The committee aims to fast-track the formulation of national and local standards, covering areas such as low-altitude airspace management, flight rules, airworthiness certification, product service guarantees, and industrial measurement. The initiative is part of a broader effort to build a comprehensive standardization framework. Standardization is essential for strengthening the resilience of industrial and supply chains and for establishing a new development framework. It is crucial to leverage standards as a foundational and leading tool to ensure the high-quality development of Guangdong's low-altitude economy, said Guo Yuhua, a senior official of the Guangdong Administration for Market Supervision, as reported by Southern Finance. Guo emphasized that Guangdong, alongside the Greater Bay Area, is well-positioned to drive this standardization initiative, thanks to its rich low-altitude resources and comprehensive industrial, technological, and talent ecosystems. The province plans to leverage its market advantages to strengthen the development and implementation of low-altitude economy standards, providing vital support for the sector's sustainable growth in Guangdong and beyond, said Guo, according to Southern Finance. This move follows a recent initiative in Shenzhen, where the city's government released guidelines to build a standardized framework for the low-altitude economy. The goal is to accelerate the development of industry norms and technical innovations, improving governance and driving development in the sector. In another key development, China's top economic planner, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), announced the creation of a new department on Sunday to bolster the rapidly expanding low-altitude economy. The department will be responsible for drafting and implementing strategic, mid-term, and long-term development plans, offering policy recommendations, and coordinating critical issues related to the sector, according to Xinhua. In addition to these institutional moves, China is also expanding its educational efforts to meet the growing demand for talent in the low-altitude economy. On December 23, six leading Chinese universities, including Beihang University and Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, applied to establish new programs in low-altitude technology and engineering, underscoring China's dedication to fostering expertise in this burgeoning field. The low-altitude economy in China has been expanding rapidly. According to data from the China Center for Information Industry Development, China's low-altitude economy exceeded 500 billion yuan ($68.5 billion) in 2023, reaching 505.95 billion yuan, up 33.8 percent year-on-year. The center also predicted that by 2025, the market size of the low-altitude economy in China will reach 1.5 trillion yuan and as much as 3.5 trillion yuan in 2035, highlighting the vast opportunities in this sector. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Survey shows more than 70% agree president committed 'treason' By Lee Hyo-jin As President Yoon Suk Yeol awaits the Constitutional Courts ruling on his impeachment, nearly 70 percent of Koreans believe the court should uphold the impeachment, citing his declaration of martial law as valid grounds for removal, a poll showed on Tuesday. The poll shows that the majority of the public does not agree with his account that martial law was an act of governance inevitable to quell "anti-state forces" and maintain public order. According to the public opinion poll conducted by Hankook Research at the request of The Korea Times, 69 percent of 1,000 adult respondents said that the court should uphold the impeachment motion passed at the National Assembly so he could be removed from office. Another 28 percent said the motion should be dismissed to allow Yoon to return to office. By age group, support for the conservative president's impeachment was the highest among those aged 40 to 49 (90 percent), followed by those in their 20s (82 percent), 30s (77 percent) and 50s (70 percent). Older age groups, traditionally more right-leaning, showed more support for the court to dismiss Yoon's impeachment motion, with 56 percent of respondents in their 70s and 45 percent of those in their 60s saying so. Broken down to political leanings, among self-identified liberals, 93 percent supported Yoons impeachment, while 34 percent of conservatives backed it. The poll also revealed that the conservative president lost popularity among moderates as well, with 78 percent of those identifying themselves as centrists expressing support for upholding his impeachment. The National Assembly passed the impeachment motion against Yoon on Dec. 14 over his botched martial law declaration on Dec. 3, which lasted only six hours. During the emergency military rule, hundreds of armed troops and police officers were dispatched to the Assembly, blocking lawmakers from entering the compound. Dozens of military officers, including those from the intelligence unit, were deployed to the National Election Commission headquarters and its two other branches, in what Yoon later described as "an attempt to look into election fraud allegations." Opposition parties have criticized Yoons declaration of martial law as a violation of the Constitution and relevant laws, arguing that these actions constituted an insurrection. But the president defended his actions as a lawful exercise of presidential power aimed at "defending the nations free democracy." Yet Yoon appears to have failed to convince the majority of the public, according to the poll, which showed that 71 percent of respondents agreed that the martial law declaration constituted treason and, thus Yoon deserves impeachment, while 29 percent disagreed. Support for the notion that the imposition of martial law was treasonous was overwhelmingly high among supporters of opposition parties, with 98 percent of main opposition Democratic Party of Korea supporters and 95 percent of minor Rebuilding Korea Party supporters in favor. In contrast, 81 percent of supporters of the conservative ruling People Power Party (PPP) believed the martial law declaration did not constitute treason. This aligns with the partys move to defend the president from impeachment. A majority of the 108 PPP lawmakers boycotted the first voting on Yoon's impeachment motion on Dec. 7, with only three of its members casting ballots in the anonymous voting. The PPP members participated in the second vote on Dec. 14, but ultimately failed to prevent the impeachment, as the motion was passed with 204 in favor and 85 against. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. By Anna J. Park More than half of Koreans believe a constitutional amendment is necessary to reform the country's presidential system, citing shortcomings in the current political structure and the need to establish stronger checks and balances to curb excessive presidential powers, according to an opinion poll conducted by The Korea Times. According to the poll conducted by Hankook Research at the request of The Korea Times, 56 percent of 1,000 respondents expressed support for amending the Constitution to reform the current single, five-year presidential term. Meanwhile, 39 percent of those surveyed opposed the idea, and the remaining 5 percent did not provide a response. The survey was carried out over two days, from Thursday to Friday. The poll was conducted approximately three weeks after President Yoon Suk Yeol briefly imposed martial law, an action he defended as part of his executive authority to govern. However, the poll indicates that most citizens disapprove of the current system, which grants such excessive power to the president, and instead support measures to limit executive authority. These opinions were consistent across various groups, including gender, region, and political ideology. For example, 61 percent of respondents identifying as politically liberal supported the change. Similarly, 57 percent of those with centrist views and 51 percent of conservatives also agreed that such an amendment is necessary. Regarding the reasons for change, 45 percent cited the need to address the shortcomings of the single, five-year term system, while 35 percent emphasized the importance of dispersing or limiting presidential powers to ensure better checks and balances. Another 17 percent pointed to the need to improve the current electoral system, which allows a candidate to win the presidency without securing a majority of the vote. One of the presidential powers people believe should be limited is the veto on bills passed by the National Assembly. According to the poll, 64 percent of respondents believe there should be a limit on the number of times the president can exercise veto power. This concern stems from Yoon's exercise of veto power on more than 25 opposition-led bills, including three related to special investigations into corruption allegations involving his wife, Kim Keon Hee. Drawbacks of single, 5-year presidential term It has long been noted that while the single, five-year presidential term was originally designed to prevent prolonged rule by authoritarian governments, it has significant drawbacks. These include intense factional conflicts every five years, difficulties in addressing issues that require long-term policy reviews, and challenges to continuity in governance. The prevalence of lame-duck periods toward the end of a president's tenure is also one of the system's shortcomings. Professor Chang Young-soo at Korea University School of Law explained that Korea is currently facing "a prolonged delay in constitutional amendment" and emphasized the need for such a change. "Since the country's Constitution was enacted in 1948, it underwent nine amendments over a 39-year period, up until 1987. However, in the 38 years since then, there have been no constitutional revisions at all. This prolonged delay highlights a significant issue of stagnation and shows the urgent need to address numerous pressing matters requiring revision," Chang told The Korea Times. The professor emphasized that the issue of the so-called "imperial presidency" a defining feature of Korea's single, five-year term must be addressed. With power systematically concentrated in the presidency, the country has frequently witnessed politicized appointments to the judiciary, as presidents attempt to control the judicial branch, thereby undermining the principle of separation of powers. The declaration of martial law on Dec. 3, 2024 by Yoon further exposed the ineffectiveness of internal controls within the executive branch, underscoring the urgent need for reforms, he said. Kang Won-taek, a professor of political science at Seoul National University, also expressed the view that the current presidential system has institutional problems and highlighted the need to consider ways to limit presidential powers. "When conflict arises between the president and the National Assembly, the presidential system lacks the institutional mechanisms to resolve such disputes. When these conflicts escalate, the legislature may seek impeachment against the president, while the president could consider relying on military power. This is what happened in South America, and it has now become our reality," the professor said. Kang said that the overall weaknesses of Korea's political system have started to emerge in recent years, and it seems that this has now reached its peak. "This creates a need to reduce presidential powers," he said, suggesting that it could mark a turning point for change. Dual-executive system Regarding which political arrangement would most effectively check the president's excessive powers, legal and political experts interviewed by The Korea Times suggested that a decentralized presidential system also known as a dual-executive republic would be the most suitable. "Rather than the extreme polarization seen in a winner-takes-all system of the current presidential term, a decentralized system could encourage healthy competition, where the ruling and opposition parties vie to demonstrate who governs better, rather than engaging in obstructive tactics," Chang pointed out. "For such a system to function effectively, the prime minister should be elected by the National Assembly, not appointed by the president. In this divided government, when the ruling party does not hold a majority in the Assembly, a prime minister elected by the opposition would introduce a competitive dynamic, which could improve the system." Kang also agreed that a decentralized presidential system would be more effective in resolving political conflicts. "In a presidential system, the power dynamics are vertical, and because the people have granted the president governing authority, it fundamentally cannot be shared. The president must make decisions and judgments alone," Kang said. "In contrast, in a parliamentary-style system or a decentralized presidential system similar to a parliamentary system, multiple groups can work together, enabling power-sharing. In such a system, power is not solely delegated to one president, so governance can be shared." He also suggested that a four-year, dual-term, and decentralized presidential system could be a feasible option that might garner public consensus. "While institutional reforms may not fully resolve the chronic issues of extreme polarization and political retribution in Korean politics, they could serve as an effective first step toward alleviating them," he said. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research conducted phone interviews with 1,000 adults on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. The National Assembly approved a parliamentary investigation plan Tuesday into President Yoon Suk Yeol's alleged insurrection attempt during his short-lived declaration of martial law. The plan to kick off a 45-day probe into the martial law imposition passed a parliamentary plenary session in a 191-71 vote with 23 abstentions. The plan calls for determining the legality of a controversial Cabinet meeting held just before the martial law declaration and whether the military and police were mobilized to stop a parliamentary vote to lift it. An 18-member special committee, consisting of 10 opposition and seven ruling party lawmakers and one independent lawmaker, will oversee the investigation from this day to Feb. 13. Government agencies subject to the investigation include the presidential office, Office of National Security, Presidential Security Service under the presidential office, Prime Minister's Office, Supreme Prosecutors Office, interior and justice ministries, police and National Intelligence Service. The defense ministry and Defense Counterintelligence Command will also face investigation. (Yonhap) By Lee Hae-rin More than half of Koreans believe Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and other Cabinet members of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration should be impeached for their alleged role in Yoons botched martial law on Dec. 3. According to a poll by The Korea Times, 61 percent of respondents agreed that the martial law fiasco could be one of the reasons to impeach Han and other Cabinet members. The poll aligns with a recent survey by Opinion Research Justice last week that showed 52.2 percent of respondents supported Hans impeachment. The Korea Times poll also surveyed political party affiliations. It found that 95, 96 and 80 percent of those who support the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), the minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party and the Jinbo Party, respectively, also sided with Han's impeachment. However, only 9 percent of those who agreed with the impeachment supported the ruling conservative People Power Party (PPP). In contrast, 87 percent of respondents who disagreed with Hans impeachment identified themselves as PPP supporters. The figure is lower among those who support opposition parties, with the DPK at 4 percent, the Rebuilding Korea Party at 4 percent and the Jinbo Party at 20 percent. By age, more than half of Koreans aged over 60 disapproved of Hans impeachment, while six to seven out of 10 respondents in all age groups under 60 supported it. Han is suspended from duty after the opposition-controlled National Assembly impeached him last week over his refusal to exercise his presidential power as then-acting president to appoint three justices to the Constitutional Court. Police have summoned Han to appear for a second round of questioning on Monday for his alleged role in the martial law chaos. He is expected to be asked when he learned of Yoons plan to declare martial law, amid claims by former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyuns legal representatives that Kim reported the plan to Han before the president. The Korea Times commissioned a Hankook Research poll of 1,000 adults aged 18 and older on Thursday and Friday to gauge public sentiment. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. Nearly half of those who want a full court say it ensures legitimacy of ruling By Kwak Yeon-soo Nearly two-thirds of Koreans prefer a nine-member Constitutional Court to make the final decision on President Yoon Suk Yeols impeachment over his short-lived imposition of martial law on Dec. 3, according to a poll by The Korea Times. The poll found that 65 percent of respondents believe a nine-member court is necessary, while 31 percent find it unnecessary, meaning that the court can proceed with the current six justices. In particular, 46 percent of respondents consider the courts full nine-member bench strongly necessary, while 19 percent find it somewhat necessary. In contrast, 13 percent of those surveyed said a nine-member court is not very necessary, with 18 percent saying it is not necessary at all. About 4 percent were unsure or did not respond. Three seats remain vacant following the retirement of former justices in October. Although the National Assembly was supposed to nominate replacements, it has so far been unable to do so. Under a clause of the Constitutional Court law, a case can be reviewed when at least seven justices are present. However, Korea Communications Commission Chair Lee Jin-sook, who was impeached by the Assembly in September, filed for an injunction to suspend that provision so the court could continue reviewing her impeachment case. The court granted the injunction, temporarily suspending the clause and permitting reviews of both her case and others. As a result, the court is technically able to review Yoons impeachment case. The law also stipulates that at least six justices must approve an impeachment for it to be upheld, meaning the Assemblys motion to remove Yoon can be validated if all six justices unanimously agree. Nearly half of those who responded that a nine-member court is necessary believed that a full court ensures the legitimacy of the ruling. Among them, 29 percent said the gravity of impeachment warrants a full court review. Twenty-three percent of respondents who preferred the court to have a full nine-member bench said it was to avoid further political conflict over the appointment of three justices. On Thursday, the National Assembly voted in favor of the appointment of three Constitutional Court justice nominees. Acting President Choi Sang-mok appointed two out of three Constitutional Court justices Jeong Gye-seon, nominated by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), and Cho Han-chang, recommended by the ruling People Power Party (PPP) as he presided over his first regular Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The PPP has argued that the acting president lacks the presidential authority to make the appointments, while the DPK has pressured Choi to immediately appoint the three additional justices as it is a matter related to Yoons impeachment and potential presidential election in 2025. According to multiple polls, Rep. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the DPK, is seen as a front-runner in the next presidential election. The term for two of the six justices currently in office will expire on April 18. If so, the impeachment trial will be halted as the minimum number of people available for the hearing will not be met, lowering the possibility of the presidential election early next year. In addition, there is a possibility that legal risks may increase as Lees trial for an election law violation is expected to finish in six months. If it is upheld by the appeals and the top court, he will be banned from running for public office for 10 years. This would mean a de facto end to the 61-year-olds political career. In addition to the trial, he is facing four other lawsuits on charges of instigating perjury and corruption. The Korea Times commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. Hankook Research surveyed 1,000 adults in phone interviews on Thursday and Friday. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, with a credibility rate of 95 percent. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website. Choi Sang-mok blocks special probe bills on Yoon, first lady By Kwak Yeon-soo Acting President Choi Sang-mok appointed two out of three Constitutional Court justice nominees, Tuesday, as he presided over his first regular Cabinet meeting after assuming the role. Choi took on the position following former acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soos impeachment by the opposition-controlled National Assembly on Friday. Han was ousted for delaying the appointment of three Constitutional Court justice nominees who had won parliamentary approval on Thursday. Choi appointed Jeong Gye-seon, nominated by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), and Cho Han-chang, recommended by the ruling People Power Party (PPP), but said he would hold off the appointment of Ma Eun-hyuk, nominated by the DPK, until rival parties reach a compromise. His decision came after the National Assembly voted in favor of the appointment of three Constitutional Court justice nominees on Thursday. I earnestly request the ruling and opposition parties to use the appointment of two Constitutional Court justices as an opportunity to shake off political turmoil and move forward together to resolve the crisis and stabilize peoples livelihoods in 2025, the acting president said during the Cabinet meeting. At the Cabinet meeting, Choi vetoed special counsel bills to investigate insurrection charges against President Yoon Suk Yeol and multiple allegations against first lady Kim Keon Hee. The DPK has warned Choi to refrain from exercising his veto powers over the opposition-led bills while the PPP called on Choi to veto two special probe bills, which call for special counsel investigations into Yoon's short-lived imposition of martial law and various corruption allegations involving Kim. Both bills were passed by the opposition-controlled National Assembly earlier on Dec. 12, requiring the acting president to promulgate or seek parliamentary reconsideration by Jan. 1. They have not been tabled at a Cabinet meeting led by Han. Choi said the special probe bills require more stringent standards, as certain clauses do not align with the Constitution. I understand the legislative purpose of the special counsel bill is to thoroughly uncover the truth and resolve public suspicions, but the government holds a responsibility to protect the Constitution. I have pondered countless times about whether it is truly responsible to promulgate bills whose question of unconstitutionality has not been resolved and which raise concerns about national interests and the peoples basic rights, Choi said. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's policy toward North Korea could shake up the security landscape on the Korean Peninsula, leaving South Korea with the daunting challenge of formulating a strategy to coordinate with Washington, a state think tank said Friday. The foreign ministry-affiliated Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security (IFANS) made the projection as South Korea braces for uncertainties in foreign policy under Trump's second term, set to begin in late January next year. Trump's team has yet to present its North Korea policy, amid speculation that he could seek to resume the stalled nuclear dialogue with the North's leader Kim Jong-un. The nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang collapsed with the no-deal summit in Hanoi in early 2019. "Depending on President Trump's policy direction toward North Korea, the situation on the Korean Peninsula is expected to become increasingly volatile, likely fueling debates over the intentions behind U.S. policy and South Korea's response strategies," the IFANS said in its regular outlook report for 2025. The report predicted that the possibility of a Trump-Kim summit next year is low, as the Trump administration is expected to focus on ending Russia's war in Ukraine, and because Kim may be unwilling to return to dialogue given his lesson from the failed Hanoi talks. North Korea is also unlikely to preemptively carry out military provocations, such as long-range missile launches, to avoid additional U.S. sanctions and backlash from China, the report said. Tensions are likely to remain high in inter-Korean relations, as the North is expected to maintain its hostile policy toward the South and continue seeking opportunities to provoke Seoul. The report also said the North's troop deployment to Russia in support of the war against Ukraine could emerge as a flashpoint in the regime internally. While Pyongyang will seek to improve its crippled economy through what it may gain from its military alignment with Moscow, the market instability will continue unless its trade with China recovers, the report noted. South Korea's alliance with the U.S. will largely remain solid under the second Trump administration, but the risk of Trump demanding a raise in the defense burden sharing and his tougher trade policy will remain key tasks for Seoul in its relations with the ally, the report said. (Yonhap) Ukraine's military disclosed Saturday the diary of a North Korean soldier killed in action in Russia's western front-line region of Kursk. Ukraine's special operations forces said the diary belonged to Jeong Kyeong-hong, equivalent to a private under South Korea's military ranking system. "The crime I committed cannot be forgiven but my fatherland gave me a new opportunity in life," Jeong wrote in an entry, noting he betrayed the North's ruling party after being given the opportunity to be promoted to platoon sergeant major. "If we win here and return to the fatherland, I will make a petition to the mother party," he added, without elaborating on what the petition will be. The diary suggests North Korea likely sent convicts among the troops it deployed to Russia to fight against Ukraine, with a possible promise to grant them a pardon upon their return. "In this operation, I will run at the front of the line and follow the orders of comrade commander-in-chief unconditionally and thoroughly even if I have to give up my life," Jeong wrote. (Yonhap) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has visited a newly completed fish farm in the east coastal city of Sinpho and called for regional development to achieve regional economic self-reliance, state media reported Monday. Kim attended the inauguration ceremony of the Sinpho City Offshore Farm on Saturday, after he ordered the farm's creation during a meeting on regional economic development in July, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. Offshore farming "will renew the structure of our fishing industry," the North Korean leader noted, adding the offshore farms to be built in the future should be more advanced and suited to the regional characteristics to guarantee the development of the regional economy. "It is important to fully realize by practice that the key to self-reliance and self-sustenance is on them," he said, referring to Sinpho residents. Kim also urged other cities and counties to secure "the independence and driving force of the regional economic development by developing and utilizing the natural resources and favorable economic conditions in their regions." He then toured the fish farm, including a scallop processing facility, and inspected various seafood products, directing efforts to maximize the farm's profitability and effectiveness. This marks his third visit to the facility, following the initial inspection of the farm's construction site in July and the second visit in November during its construction. Koo Byoung-sam, the South Korean unification ministry's spokesperson, said that Kim's visit to the fish farm, shortly after a key party meeting last week, may be part of his efforts to demonstrate "visible results" from his regional development policy before the year's end. (Yonhap) Thai Ambassador Tanee Sangrat The Embassy has reported the tragedy to the Foreign Minister and MFA and coordinated closely with Korean authorities concerned. Our Consular Department has informed families of the two Thai victims. Our Embassy has also worked closely with Jeju Airlines officials who reassured us the they would be responsible for the related costs of damages of the victims. Today the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul and Team Thailand offices have lowered the flag for seven days in mourning for the victims. We will continue to work with all local authorities and provide assistance to victims and their families. Thai Buddhist temples throughout the ROk will arrange prayers for the victims and their families over the next several days to be co-hosted by myself. Moroccan Ambassdor Chafik Rachadi Following the deadly airplane crash that occurred on December 29th at Muan International Airport, causing the disastrous loss of 179 lives, with deep sadness in this moment of grief, sorrow and national mourning, as Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea, standing in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy, and wishing prompt recovery to those rescued. Tunisian Ambassador Kais Darragi The Ambassador of Tunisia in Seoul, Kais Darragi, member of the Tunisian Embassy and members of the Tunisian community in Korea offer their heartfelt condolences and sympathy, following the tragic Jeju Air crash that claimed so many lives. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved families and loved ones of the victims of this tragic incident, and we wish a smooth recovery to those injured. Korea is not alone in this moment of grief. Tunisia shares the sorrow and stands with the Korean people in this time of mourning. Turkish Ambassador Murat Tamer We are deeply saddened by the tragic airplane accident happened in Muan, causing the lives of many people. During these difficult times our solidarity and prayers are with our Korean brothers and sisters We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased ones, as well as to the brotherly Government and people of the Republic of Korea May them rest in peace Taipei Representative Office The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan immediately conveyed its condolences to Representative Lee Eun-ho of the Korean Mission in Taipei through Lan Shari, Director-General of the Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs." The Representative of the Taipei Mission in Korea, Liang Guangzhong, also conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Taiwanese government and people to the Korean government. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba "I am deeply saddened by the loss of many precious lives in this plane crash." He added, "On behalf of the Japanese government and the people of Japan, I extend my sincere condolences to the victims and their families and wish for the swift recovery of the injured." British Ambassador Colin Crooks I send my deepest condolences to the victims and families of those who lost their lives in the tragic plane crash in Muan. On behalf of the United Kingdom, my thoughts are with the emergency responders and the people of the Republic of Korea and Thailand. U.S. Ambasasdor Philip Goldberg I was heartbroken to hear about the tragedy at Muan Airport this morning. My sincerest condolences go out to the victims and their loved ones, and my thoughts are with the people of Korea during this difficult time. Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing I am deeply saddened by the tragic plane crash at Muan Airport today. My heartfelt condolences go out to the victims and their families, and I extend on behalf of my colleagues our sympathies to those injured. Chinese Embassy stands in solidarity with the ROK during this difficult time. Canadian Ambassador Tamara Mawhinney The Embassy of Canada extends its deepest condolences following today's tragic aircraft accident at Muan International Airport. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this devastating incident. German Ambassador Georg Schmidt Very sad news from #Muan today. My deepest condolences to the families of the victims of today's plane crash of #jejuair. Very best wishes for the injured and all involved in the rescue efforts. Our thoughts and prayers are with South Korea No. of chapters on work terminology increases to 18 in first update in 11 years By Jung Min-ho Korea's official textbook for the EPS-TOPIK, a language proficiency test for foreigners seeking employment in the country, has been updated for the first time in 11 years to focus more on work-related content, officials said Monday. According to the Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRDK), the government agency that publishes the material, the number of chapters dedicated to teaching specific work-related terminology has increased to 18 in the new version, up from the previous 10. EPS-TOPIK is a test designed specifically for non-Korean citizens who wish to work in Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS). This system allows local employers to hire foreign workers in industries facing significant labor shortages. Unlike TOPIK, a standardized test that measures proficiency in reading, writing, and listening for foreign citizens interested in learning Korean, EPS-TOPIK focuses on evaluating test takers' reading and listening comprehension in the context of the workplace. The test is designed for individuals seeking employment in sectors like construction and manufacturing as E-9 visa holders. Compared to the previous single-book version, which covered topics like Korean culture, legal issues, work life, and more, the new textbook now consists of two books: one focusing on everyday Korean language and the other dedicated to terms and expressions used in the workplace. The book specializing in workplace language includes more example sentences and dialogues based on real situations that many workers encounter while working in Korea. Additionally, it incorporates more visual aids to help learners better understand the content. Each conversation is centered on typical daily life and situations in the workplace that foreign workers may experience, aiming to improve practical communication skills, said the textbook authors, mostly Keimyung University scholars, in its introduction. The culture and information sections cover language culture, daily life culture, and workplace culture to help learners understand Korean culture and acquire practical information for living in Korea. In particular, Volume 2 (focused on work terminology) includes content related to Koreas industrial landscape and workplace information to support understanding of various industries. To develop more practical content for the new textbook, HRDK officials carried out polls and in-depth interviews with foreign workers, their employers and industry experts, they said. The textbooks will be distributed to 17 EPS partner countries for applicants seeking to work in Korea, with Tajikistan set to join the list next year. The books will also be available for free in PDF format on the HRDK website. We would continue to support the settlement of foreign workers here in order to enhance Koreas national competitiveness, Lee Woo-young, chief director at HRDK, said. Last week, the government announced that it will allow up to 130,000 foreign nationals to work in Korea on E-9 visas next year under the Employment Permit System, down from this years 165,000. By Jung Min-ho After the end of an experimental foreign nanny program in February 2025, Korean officials were going to expand it into a nationwide initiative, extending its availability beyond Seoul to include an additional 1,100 workers recruited from more partner nations. This ambitious project, originally initiated by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, has been postponed indefinitely, with no clear timeline or confirmation on whether it will resume, an official familiar with the matter told The Korea Times recently. Officials need additional time to determine whether to expand it as a national project following the conclusion of the trial program, the official said. They plan to review the collected feedback, and based on the results, may consider increasing the number of Filipino caregivers and recruiting similar workers from other countries. The program, initially launched to help raise the countrys birthrate by easing childcare burdens for couples, particularly those in double-income households, was originally intended to expand to other cities and regions shortly after its six-month pilot phase. But regardless of whether the program is expanded, the 98 Filipino caregivers who have been working in the capital since August will be permitted to extend their E-9 visas for up to three years, the official said. In addition to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, some local administrative offices, such as those in Busan and Ulsan, have reportedly been evaluating whether to participate in the program. However, it remains uncertain whether sufficient demand exists to support an expansion. The issue of cost is at the heart of the concerns regarding demand. Originally, the program was designed to provide affordable care services for those balancing parenting and work in Seoul. Currently, the cost of hiring a full-time worker, including insurance fees, is 2.06 million won ($1,400) per month. This is regarded too expensive for most Korean households, which, on average, earn 5.44 million won a month. However, a plan to implement a different wage system for non-Korean care workers, lower than the minimum wage applied to Korean workers, has been stalled due to opposition from the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, which holds a majority in the National Assembly. Defense team claims investigators have no authority to arrest Yoon By Jung Da-hyun Investigators are seeking an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol over his short-lived imposition of martial law, making him the first sitting president in the nation's history to face arrest, a joint investigation team said Monday. The team, consisting of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), the National Police Agency and the investigation unit of the Ministry of National Defense, requested the Seoul Western District Court to issue an arrest warrant at midnight on Sunday. Yoon is being charged with insurrection and abuse of power. The CIO had previously summoned Yoon three times for questioning, identifying him as the leader of the alleged insurrection and a suspect in abuse of authority. However, Yoon did not comply with any of the summonses. He refused to accept the requests, submit a power of attorney, or engage in discussions to adjust the schedule. The presidents failure to comply with a third summons on Sunday, following earlier summonses on Dec. 18 and 25, prompted investigators to pursue measures for his forced detention. A third summons is typically the final step before requesting an arrest warrant. Under the Criminal Procedure Act, an investigative agency can request an arrest warrant from the court if a suspect repeatedly refuses to cooperate without justifiable reasons. This allows authorities to detain the individual by force. Along with the arrest warrant, the joint investigation team also requested a search warrant for the presidents residence. It remains uncertain whether the arrest will proceed, as it depends on factors such as the courts decision to issue the warrant and potential conflicts with the Presidential Security Service during its execution. Investigators said they are preparing for the possibility of resistance from the Presidential Security Service in carrying out the warrant. The legal community has also noted that a refusal or obstruction by the security service in executing a court-issued arrest warrant could amount to obstruction of official duties, which is a punishable offense. In response to the arrest warrant request, Yun Gap-geun, a legal representative for the president, said he submitted a statement of opinions to the court later in the day regarding the warrant request and the appointment of lawyers, along with Kim Hong-il, former head of the Korea Communications Commission and the chief representative of Yoons legal team. In a statement, Yun argued that the CIO lacks the authority to request an arrest warrant, claiming that the request is unlawful and should be dismissed. He also criticized the charges, saying, "Treason is an exceptionally grave offense compared to abuse of power, and linking such a minor charge to treason lacks legal validity." According to Yoon's defense, there is no evidence of intent to disrupt constitutional order or incite treason, which makes the allegations lack sufficient legal merit. He also asserted that the imposition of martial law falls within the presidents constitutional authority. Addressing Yoons failure to comply with three summonses, Yun asserted that it was not a refusal but a result of legitimate concerns. He cited overlapping investigations, repeated summons within a short period and a lack of coordination on safety and security measures for the sitting president as reasons for Yoons refusal to appear before investigators. Yoon's side has maintained that the president will not comply with the investigation at this time, emphasizing that the Constitutional Courts impeachment trial takes precedence. The government said Monday it plans to conduct a safety inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic airlines following a Jeju Air plane crash that claimed 179 lives the previous day. In Sunday's Jeju Air crash in the southwestern county of Muan, it is believed that all three landing gears had failed to operate properly. The aircraft involved in the accident was a Boeing B737-800. A transport ministry official said the government plans to thoroughly examine whether various regulations of the Boeing model are being properly followed by airlines, which would check their aircraft utilization rates, flight inspections and maintenance records. The Boeing 737-800 is widely operated by domestic low-cost carriers. Jeju Air operates the largest number of this model, with 39 aircraft in its fleet. Other operators include T'way Air with 27 aircraft, Jin Air with 19 and Eastar Jet with 10. The ministry, in particular, plans to conduct rigorous safety inspections of Jeju Air following repeated landing gear issues. Earlier in the day, a separate Jeju Air flight of the same aircraft model made a return after taking off from Gimpo International Airport due to a landing gear issue that was found similarly in Sunday's crash. It was of the same Boeing B737-800 model involved in the accident. "We plan to implement rigorous aviation safety inspections in response to the (landing gear) incidents," Joo Jong-wan, aviation policy chief at the transport ministry, said during a briefing at the Sejong government complex. Joo noted that Jeju Air was known for its high aircraft utilization rate, which some observers have pointed to as a possible factor in Sunday's crash. Following the landing gear issue reported on Monday, the ministry dispatched safety inspectors to the company to investigate the latest case. Meanwhile, one of the two flight recording devices recovered from the crash site has been found with external damage, according to Joo. It has been transported to Gimpo International Airport for further analysis. The ministry official also said the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board will participate in the investigation into the crash. Boeing and engine manufacturer CFM International have also been approached for cooperation. (Yonhap) B737 flew four countries in a day, with one-hour turnarounds allowing just 28 minutes for checks By KTimes The Jeju Air flight 2216, which crashed in the catastrophic tragedy, completed its pre-departure maintenance in just 28 minutes, the official minimum time mandated for B737 aircraft by the Korean government. The tight maintenance schedule has raised concerns over whether the low-cost carrier (LCC) prioritized operational efficiency over safety, as the plane underwent an intense itinerary the day before the accident, connecting four international cities without significant downtime. The ill-fated aircraft operated flights between Muan and Kota Kinabalu, Nagasaki, Taipei and Bangkok, executing a total of eight departures within a single day, multiple sources said Monday. According to industry standards, planes require time for maintenance, cleaning and refueling between flights. However, on Nov. 27, the flight spent just 62 minutes on the ground at Muan International Airport before departing for Kota Kinabalu, suggesting that only 28 to 30 minutes were allocated for maintenance. One veteran mechanic with over a decade of experience working with B737 aircraft at LCCs said, The 28-minute maintenance time is barely enough to check for cockpit warning lights and visually inspect the exterior for obvious damage. Its essentially a walkthrough, not a detailed inspection. LCCs often don't spend more time than the government-mandated minimum to maximize profits, as every additional flight segment contributes significantly to revenue. A mechanic working for another LCC said, Limiting preparation times to about one hour, including maintenance, allows carriers to execute ambitious schedules, like flying to three Southeast Asian cities and one Japanese city in a single day. The tragedy has reignited debates over whether the governments mandated minimum maintenance times are sufficient to ensure safety. Critics argue that the 28-minute standard leaves no room for identifying potential issues. A former maintenance chief at a major airline said, The 28-minute check is like applying a band-aid. It doesnt account for potential hidden faults. The industrys approach to safety should be proactive, not reactive. Landing gear defect raises red flags The accident is believed to involve a landing gear malfunction, sparking further questions about the adequacy of maintenance. Alarmingly, just one day after the crash, another Jeju Air B737 experienced a landing gear issue and was forced to return to the airport immediately after takeoff. The fact that another aircraft of the same model from the same airline encountered similar problems highlights systemic issues, an aviation expert said. There are growing calls within the aviation industry to extend the mandated maintenance times and overhaul LCC flight schedules. Thorough maintenance requires more time. Airlines might need to sacrifice one flight segment or dedicate additional resources to inspections, the former maintenance chief said. Jeju Air, however, has defended its practices. We strictly adhere to planned schedules and carry out thorough pre-flight and post-flight inspections, Song Kyung-hoon, the airlines head of management support, said during a press briefing on Nov. 28. Our operations cannot be categorized as excessive or rushed, he added. Despite Jeju Airs defense, questions linger over whether its operational strategy prioritizes profit at the expense of safety. Aviation regulators and industry stakeholders are now under pressure to reassess existing guidelines, particularly the minimum maintenance time required for aircraft, to prevent future tragedies. A race against the clock A mechanic working in the industry described the high-stress environment of LCC maintenance schedules: Were racing against the clock. A 28-minute check barely allows time to ensure the plane is airworthy. Anything more detailed simply doesnt fit into the timeline. In light of the crash, experts are urging a shift in priorities. Its time to put safety ahead of profit. The bare minimum is not enough when lives are at stake, the former maintenance chief said. The investigation into the crash continues, with the aviation community bracing for significant changes in maintenance and operational practices in the wake of the tragedy. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times. Jeju Air, Boeing aircraft under intensive safety probe By Lee Hae-rin Aviation authorities launched an investigation, Monday, into the deadly crash of a Jeju Air plane, which claimed 179 lives the previous day, focusing on both the carrier and the aircraft model. The investigation comes after rescue authorities recovered the bodies of all the victims from the accident site at Muan International Airport in Muan, South Jeolla Province, the previous night. Of the 181 people aboard the flight from Bangkok to Muan, only two survived. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said it will conduct special inspections on all B737-800 aircraft operated by Korean carriers. The decision follows the discovery that the planes landing gears malfunctioned, presumably due to a bird strike, along with suspicions of a potential engine problem. The possibility of technical issues intensified after another plane of the same model, operated by the same carrier, experienced a landing gear issue on Monday morning and returned to its departure point. Korean carriers operate 101 planes of this model and we are planning to conduct special inspections on them, Joo Jong-wan, head of the ministrys aviation policy, said in a media briefing at the Government Complex Sejong. Well examine their utilization rates and check if carriers are following various relevant regulations such as checkup and maintenance before and after operation. The model is operated by low-cost carriers here. Jeju Air has 39 B737-800 planes, followed by Tway Air with 27, Jin Air with 19, Eastar Jet with 10, Air Incheon with four, and Korean Air with two. The ministry said it will also conduct a safety inspection of Jeju Air to ensure the airline has complied with regulations. It is backed by data that Jeju Air has a higher utilization rate of aircraft than others, Joo said. An intensive safety inspection will be carried out. The flight data recorder (FDR) and the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) were retrieved from the scene of the crash and the ministry plans to transfer them to an analysis center in Seoul. The ministry noted that the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, will participate in the investigation, while CFMI, which made the CFM 56-7B26 engines, is in talks to take part. Meanwhile, the ministry explained that the concrete wall facility near the runway, which has been pointed out as a factor that increased the damage when the plane collided with it, is also installed at other domestic airports. "Muan airport has a localizer installed about 251 meters away from the end of the runway," Joo said. The structure is designed to guide aircraft during their landing on the runway. The structure typically has concrete foundations, with antennas standing atop earthen hills. In response to claims that the structure at Muan Airport violated regulations regarding the materials used to build it, the ministry plans to review the facilitys installation regulations and assess their connection to the accident. Regarding the accident, Koreas acting President Choi Sang-mok ordered an emergency safety inspection of the countrys entire airline operation system. The government is doing its utmost to establish cooperation between related agencies, Choi said during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters at the Government Complex Seoul. He asked the ministry and the National Police Agency to conduct a strict investigation into the cause of the accident. Even before the final results are out, we ask that officials transparently disclose the accident investigation process and promptly inform the bereaved families, he said. "As soon as the accident recovery is finished, the transport ministry will conduct an emergency safety inspection of the entire aircraft operation system to prevent a recurrence of airplane accidents," he said. Meanwhile, the rescue authorities identified more than 140 of the 179 victims after an overnight investigation. Eleven out of 179 victims were elementary, middle, and high school students, according to the Ministry of Education. The bereaved families formed a coalition to respond to the disaster and recovery efforts, similar to the family groups organized after the 2014 Sewol ferry sinking, which killed more than 300 people, and the 2022 Itaewon disaster, which claimed 159 lives. The group announced the suspension of all funeral procedures until both the recovery and identification of the bodies are completed. Memorial altars have been set up at dozens of locations across the country to mourn the victims. The government designated a national mourning period through Saturday midnight. The Cabinet on Tuesday demanded the National Assembly to reconsider two special counsel bills related to President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law bid and allegations surrounding the first lady. The motion demanding reconsideration was approved during a Cabinet meeting, chaired by acting President Choi Sang-mok, who assumed the interim leadership role last week. The opposition bloc had urged Choi to promulgate the bills mandating special probes into Yoon's botched martial law declaration on Dec. 3 and criminal allegations against first lady Kim Keon Hee. The deadline for a decision to promulgate the bills or demand parliamentary reconsideration was Wednesday. Rep. Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, expressed regret over the decision and vowed to push for a parliamentary revote as soon as possible. "Rejecting special counsel bills will draw public criticism for being sympathetic to insurrection," he warned. The special counsel probe bill on Yoon passed the National Assembly on Dec. 12, calling for the designation of special prosecutors to look into insurrection charges related to Yoon's short-lived martial law imposition. On the same day, the parliament passed another bill mandating a special counsel probe into two key allegations involving Kim over her alleged involvement in a stock manipulation scheme and interference in election nominations through a power broker. It is the fourth version of the bill targeting the first lady following a similar proposal vetoed by Yoon, which was ultimately scrapped in a revote. Typically, motions like these are approved during Cabinet meetings chaired by the prime minister and sent to the president for endorsement before being returned to the National Assembly for a revote. Choi, who also serves as deputy prime minister for economic affairs and finance minister, assumed the interim leadership role on Friday when the opposition-led parliament voted to impeach then acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. (Yonhap) By Yu Seung-eun Big changes in the education sector are now taking place across the world, the most controversial being U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's proposal to abolish the Department of Education. This statement has recently sparked heated debates, with some conversations focusing on how students are educated on sensitive topics like race, LGBTQ issues and patriotism. Does such a discussion ever go peacefully? To quote one of our guests; "Shots will be fired." Indeed, when the Howdy Korea team reached out to potential participants for this video, this was essentially what they told us. We faced numerous rejections, but we believed that fostering a civil discussion on such topics was not only possible but also necessary. And now we are proud to say that we were successful. In this episode of Howdy Korea, we brought together American, Dutch, French and Korean nationals to participate in a thought-provoking game called "Draw the line," in which each participant shares where they stand on the topics provided. From heartfelt stories of their personal lives to their experiences traveling through Thailand, the participants offer insights into global perspectives. This video is more than a debate its a cross-cultural conversation about identity and the future of education. Watch now to see what global citizens really think about these pressing issues! South Korea's path forward in 2025 amid challenges By Shim Jae-yun The most immediate crisis confronting South Korea is the erosion of its democratic foundations. President Yoon Suk Yeols controversial declaration of martial law on Dec. 3, 2024 sent shockwaves throughout the nation. For a country that has prided itself on its democratic transformation since the 1980s, this sudden and drastic action threatened to unravel the very principles of democracy that South Korea has painstakingly built. Martial law, often associated with authoritarian regimes, is a stark deviation from the norms of the democratic Republic of Korea, and it was made even more alarming by allegations that Yoons declaration was driven by personal interests rather than the national welfare. In a democratic society, the role of the military should be to defend the country, not to undermine the rule of law or suppress political opposition. Yet reports surfaced suggesting that Yoon ordered the military to arrest lawmakers in the National Assembly, even threatening to use force to do so. This is not merely a matter of a political disagreement it is a direct violation of the Constitution, which guarantees the uninterrupted functioning of the legislature. Such actions are not only illegal but also undermine the very legitimacy of the government. South Koreas citizens, having fought for democracy in the past, will not tolerate any deviation from these hard-won freedoms. What followed was even more troubling. Calls for impeachment against Yoon and acting President Han Duck-soo have risen, with many arguing that such political turmoil only deepens the crisis. The failure to swiftly resolve this conflict could further erode public trust and plunge the nation into greater instability. While the political crisis is urgent, South Korea is also grappling with serious economic challenges. The countrys semiconductor industry, which is vital for its economic survival, is under threat. Despite being a global leader in semiconductor production, South Korea faces increasing competition from China and Taiwan, both of which have ramped up their investments in this critical sector. Yet crucial legislation aimed at revitalizing the semiconductor industry has been delayed in the National Assembly due to political gridlock. The political instability only exacerbates these economic risks. When the political system is in crisis, it creates an environment of uncertainty that can scare off investors, weaken consumer confidence, and even lead to capital flight. Economic growth could stall, and South Koreas position in the global market could be compromised. On the international stage, the challenges are equally daunting. The United States, South Koreas most important ally, faces a potential shift in leadership with the looming return of Donald Trump to power on Jan. 20. Trumps approach to foreign policy has often been unpredictable, and his return could result in demands for increased defense cost-sharing or, even more dramatically, a reduction in the number of U.S. troops stationed in South Korea. Such a shift in U.S. policy would have profound implications for regional security, leaving South Korea more vulnerable to external threats. In addition to the uncertainties surrounding the U.S. alliance, North Korea remains a persistent threat. Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions show no signs of slowing, and its growing military cooperation with Russia particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine has added a new layer of complexity to the security situation in Northeast Asia. The evolving military ties between North Korea and Russia could destabilize the region further and pose an even greater security threat to South Korea. First and foremost, the countrys leadership must recognize that the path forward requires national unity. The Year of the Blue Snake symbolizes renewal and transformation, and South Korea has the opportunity to shed old patterns of political conflict that have hindered progress. This moment also presents an opportunity to reassess South Koreas political system. The centralization of power in the presidency has proven to be a double-edged sword. While it allows for swift decision-making in times of crisis, it also makes the system vulnerable to authoritarian impulses. In light of recent events, it may be time to explore alternatives, such as a more robust prime ministerial system or parliamentary governance, which would provide greater checks and balances. Another option could be adopting a U.S.-style system, limiting a presidents term of office to four years and allowing them to serve up to two terms, ensuring a balance of power and preventing excessive concentration of authority. Despite countless challenges over its 5,000-year history, the Korean people have consistently demonstrated the ability to rise above adversity. From the Donghak Peasant Revolution to the March 1 Independence Movement, and from the April 19 Revolution to the May 18 Democratic Uprising, Korean people have shown time and again that they will not surrender to oppression or injustice. The swift restoration of democratic order in recent months shows that the spirit of democracy remains strong in South Korea. As we move through the Year of the Blue Snake, it is clear that South Koreas path forward will require wisdom, prudence, and unity. The country must shed the political divisions of the past and focus on renewal just as the snake sheds its skin and grows. Through strong leadership, structural reforms and a renewed commitment to democratic values, South Korea can overcome its current crises. The resilience of the Korean people, combined with strategic diplomacy and economic innovation, will ensure that the nation continues to thrive, both regionally and globally. South Koreas democratic principles, economic vitality and commitment to peace are its greatest assets. In this challenging time, it is these values that will guide the country through its crises and into a new era of prosperity. By John J. Metzler In the swirling whirligig of world events, the past year 2024 was nearly like no other. Extraordinary but often jarring occurrences mixed in a hodgepodge of hope, joy and despair as crucial elections were won and lost, regional conflicts exploded and humanitarian crises boiled over with a sickening predictability. Im again prepared to say; if the news cycle of 2024 were the outline for a thriller novel or movie, most agents would scoff and say the plot and storyline are simply too far fetched to believe! Well, we lived it! But now some of the dust may slowly begin to settle. Heres why. First off, aggressor states like Putins Russia have worn down Ukraine but also themselves. This does not mean the fight is over, but everybody may be looking for a military and political off-ramp after the exhausting fighting now for nearly three bloody years. Second, President-elect Donald Trumps pro-active American foreign policy, while safeguarding U.S. interests will also focus on stopping ongoing conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East. During the past year in the twilight of the Biden/Harris Administration, and the tumultuous American elections, the global power vacuum expanded dangerously. The electoral triumph by Trump will most likely reestablish overdue political equilibrium in key regions. Washington must now shift from managing chaos to solving crises amid still rising geopolitical tensions. After a massive transfusion of over $183 billion in American military and economic aid, Ukraine has not won the war but could certainly lose it. The Russians have ground down the outnumbered Ukrainian military. Moscow hasnt won either but they could. Trump has promised to end the Ukraine war, not easy, but the new American president can help bring about a ceasefire and a truce. The Europeans want this to end, too, as they cannot afford to keep supporting Kyiv with unlimited weapons and aid. The churning crisis in Gaza, tragically triggered by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists, has spilled over elsewhere, as predicted, into neighboring Lebanon. Hezbollah fighters attacked the Israelis only to have the Israel Defense Forces teach them a tough lesson in southern Lebanon. Tragically, this escalation has destabilized Lebanon, a once reasonably pluralistic and prosperous place. Following the fall of Syrias Assad dictatorship, its naive to assume the Islamic rebels really plan to establish a democracy. Watch carefully how this unfolds not only for the Syrian refugee diaspora in Europe but for ancient Christian and Druze minorities inside Syria. Tehrans military proxies, Hamas, Hezbollah and Yemens Houthis have all taken a military battering from the Israelis. The collapse of Assads Syrian regime was the turning point. Moreover, the domestic situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran has become dismal. Given a fortuitous constellation of events, at long last this may be the year that Irans brutal regime collapses under its own weight of incompetence and rash foreign military misadventures. For the sake of the long-suffering Iranian people, and especially its talented and frustrated youth, this would come not a moment too soon. France had a swirl of three prime ministers in the past year, harkening the pre-war Third Republic. Germanys unstable coalition government has teetered and fallen; Chancellor Olaf Scholzs Social Democrats face new elections in late February. Its very likely the Christian Democrats will return to power and revive lackluster economic growth. In Canada, too, the mismanagement by the progressive/leftist Justin Trudeau government has sadly turned Canada into a laughingstock. Trudeau will likely lose parliamentary elections later in the year to the conservatives. The status quo was rattled when South Koreas democracy took a turn for the unexpected, as a baffling martial law declaration by the sitting President Yoon Suk Yeol triggered massive political pushback from the opposition parties. These moves and antics by both sides now tarnish South Koreas burnished brand of political and economic standing. Moreover, instability in South Korea encourages communist North Korea to play more political and military provocations. North Koreas dictator Kim Jong-un has moved closer to Russia and now supplies troops for Putins Ukraine war! Taiwans vibrant democracy still faces a growing military threat from communist China. Beijings rulers have never renounced the use of force to conquer what they claim is part of the Peoples Republic (but never was). Despite the military standoff, mainland Chinas economy is lackluster and challenged by widespread corruption and demographic decline. Troubled geographic fault lines, which arc from Bosnia to Serbia, Georgia, Armenia and Moldova face Russian-instigated subversion and political subterfuge. Watch these countries. Amid these challenges ahead, have a Happy and Healthy New Year! John J. Metzler is a longtime United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of "Divided Dynamism: The Diplomacy of Separated Nations: Germany, Korea, China." By William Pesek Yoon Suk Yeol doesnt reference Donald Trump when he spins theories about election interference to the South Korean masses. But the U.S. president-elects obsession with voter fraud seems written between the lines in bold font. Newly impeached Yoon is struggling to explain his baffling Dec. 3 martial law decree. So much so that he is serving up scenarios of Cold War era intrigue ripped from the pages of Tom Clancy and John le Carre novels. Yoon claims he acted out of deep concern about the integrity of Koreas voting system. Part of the urgency, he claims, stemmed from the National Intelligence Services cybersecurity checkup conducted last year. The report, Yoon asserts, uncovered signs that the National Election Commissions (NEC) platforms are vulnerable to cyberattacks and hacking attempts. This, he says, means the NECs capability of managing elections is questionable. Fair enough. Name a democracy anywhere that doesnt live in constant fear of election meddling, be it domestic or foreign. But whats really questionable is the reckless manner in which Yoon and his supporters are going about it. The martial law stunt was so wildly over the top that it has credit rating companies scrutinizing Korea. Troops being dispatched to election facilities is the stuff of Vladimir Putins Russia and Recep Tayyip Erdogans Turkey, not a proud paragon of democratic principles. You dont restore trust in elections with a bizarre power grab that taints the credibility of an entire governmental system. And if you have proof real evidence that vote tabulations are suspect, show it. Trafficking in conspiracy theories and vague chatter about anti-state forces sympathetic to foreign governments, and North Korea perhaps, helps no one. Least of all Yoon, whos looking more like a hapless villain in a Robert Ludlum spy novel than a truth-teller. Yoon is also looking more Trumpian than many Koreans might want to admit. Full disclosure: I write these words with a tinge of sheepishness, given the anti-democratic upheaval shocking my native U.S. The same goes for the last 20-plus years Ive spent living in Asia, writing about illiberal turns by governments around the region. Ive covered Indonesias evolution from military-led basket case to thriving investment destination and innovative upstart. Ive chronicled Thailands coups, Malaysias struggles to dismantle a kleptomaniac system stymying competitiveness and Indias ricocheting back and forth from socialism and capitalism. And the Philippines ordeal with family dynasties squandering its future. It never occurred to me that the U.S. could find itself faced with all these threats at once and others for which we Americans lack the imagination even before Trumps second term begins on Jan. 20. The conspiracy-packed Trump 1.0 era from 2017 to 2021 left American voters deeply distrustful of governing institutions, even before COVID-19 and his Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection on Capitol Hill. A Trumpian haze of misinformation and disinformation began right after Trump first took office. Though Trump staged a technical Electoral College win, he lost the popular vote in 2016 by nearly 3 million. Embarrassed, Trump cried fraud and set up a commission to prove he won more votes than Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton. Even though the effort failed, Trump stuck to his stolen election talking points, setting the stage for the violence to come in 2021. Believing Trumps election fantasies, millions of Americans were ready to believe Joe Biden had rigged the November 2020 election. That primed thousands to attack the Capitol building in Washington two months later. Trumps superpower is creating his own reality apart from facts. For four years, Trump failed to offer evidence that paper ballots had been manipulated in 2020. Or that voting machines had been tampered with in ways that might have altered the national vote. Or that the deep state at home or state actors abroad conspired to defeat him. Nor did Trump need it. The absence of proof was overwhelmed by Trumps megaphone, amplified by right-wing media platforms, social media algorithms and sycophantic Republican lawmakers placing tribalism over the good of the nation. Unfortunately, Trumps gambit went global. In January 2023, Brazils Jair Bolsonaro tried to repeat Trumps rigged election playbook only to face federal and state charges. The other way its gone international is by trashing Americas reputation as a stable, rule-of-law-based economy protected by robust checks and balances against political corruption. Many worry even the oldest democracy might fail as Trump 2.0 does its worst to distort the lines between fact and fiction. Korea must learn from these mistakes. The cost of Yoons election fraud theories could be the loss of Koreans confidence in their government and global investors belief the economy deserves an upgrade to developed nation status. What Yoon did on Dec. 3 was put Korea in league with other modern-day martial law declarers like Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines and Thailand. To be sure, few in Seoul are colored in glory here. The NEC has done itself no favors by appearing to silence valid questions about cracks in its cybersecurity capabilities. If theres nothing to hide, top NEC officials should be bending over backward not just to answer questions but to reassure a perplexed nation. The U.S., for all its problems, had Robert Muellers investigation into the Trump campaign's alleged ties to Russia. As U.S. special counsel, Mueller, a former Federal Bureau of Investigation director, looked into foreign influence in the 2016 election. A similar probe, endowed with expansive investigative powers, is needed in Korea. This would make it harder for the NEC and National Assembly to avoid scrutiny. It would be difficult to deflect questions about everything from fraud to cyber readiness. At the same time, its a useful way to dispense with conspiracy theories. Korea can devise its own mechanism to shine daylight on Yoons talk of shadowy plots and vague schemes to undermine his People Power Party. It should do so urgently, transparently and credibly to ensure Korea emerges from this political nightmare with its national reputation somewhat intact. So far, Yoon has failed to put country over base politics. No one likes losing an election, whether its a presidential or National Assembly contest. But unless theres clear evidence something is amiss, accept your comeuppance from voters and try harder next time. With his approval ratings under 20 percent even before Dec. 3, its quite possible that Yoon just isnt very good at this president thing. Since then, Yoon, with his election interference talk and selfish actions, continues to prove it, a bit more each day. William Pesek is a longtime Asia opinion writer, based in Tokyo. He is a former columnist for Bloomberg and Barrons and author of "Japanization: What the World Can Learn from Japans Lost Decades." Parties must end conflict and address aviation disaster It was heartbreaking to learn that Jeju Air's passenger plane, carrying 181 people including crew, crashed at Muan International Airport, resulting in the deaths of all but two passengers, who were rescued Sunday. Jeju Air flight 7C2216, which departed from Bangkok, made an unsuccessful belly-landing at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province. The plane then overran the runway and exploded upon colliding with a concrete wall. The plane was destroyed beyond recognition, underscoring the severity of the crash and the tragic loss of life on the final Sunday of 2024. Many of the passengers were families, primarily from the region, returning from year-end trips. The victims ranged in age from young children to the elderly, and among them were two Thai nationals. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families who have lost loved ones in this devastating tragedy. As authorities work to determine the exact cause of the crash, the nation braces for what is expected to be one of the worst aviation disasters since the Korean Air crash in Guam in 1997, which claimed at least 200 lives, and the Asiana Airlines accident at San Francisco airport in 2013, which resulted in three fatalities. The investigation is expected to take time, but a bird strike and malfunctioning landing gear are being cautiously considered as possible causes of the crash. Some experts have noted that the runway length at Muan International Airport, at 2.8 kilometers, is shorter than those at other international airports. With the plane's flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder now secured, authorities must conduct a transparent and credible investigation into the cause of the accident. This will not only help prevent future incidents but also provide some closure for the victims' families. Additionally, the government has appropriately ordered a comprehensive review of the safety and maintenance status of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which is predominantly used by the nations budget carriers. The aviation disaster comes at a time when Korea is grappling with significant political turmoil following the brief emergency martial law declared by President Yoon Suk Yeol on Dec. 3. While Yoon awaits the Constitutional Court's decision on an impeachment motion passed against him by the National Assembly, acting President Han Duck-soo, the prime minister, was also impeached on Friday by the National Assembly for refusing to appoint three members to fill three vacant seats on the nine-member adjudicating court. The main opposition and ruling parties must set aside partisan conflicts and work together on the government's relief efforts, ensuring that transparent and credible investigations can proceed. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, should honor his statement that "there can be no difference between the government and the parties," emphasizing the importance of unity in addressing this tragedy. The swift response of acting President Choi Sang-mok, who is also deputy prime minister and finance minister, by showing up at the crash site, along with the designation of Muan as a special disaster zone eligible for state support, should provide some relief to the families of the victims. The response also reassures the public that the government is capable of effectively handling such crises. Jeju Air, recognized as a leading budget carrier, also expressed deep apologies and pledged to do its utmost to address the aftermath of the crash. Several key government positions, including the interior minister and chief of the Korean National Police Agency, remain vacant due to ongoing investigations into insurrection and abuse of power allegations following the Dec. 3 martial law debacle and the subsequent impeachments. As the year comes to a close, political parties, regardless of their affiliations, must put aside their differences and support both government and private efforts to help the families and the nation recover. By Robert Neff On Nov. 25, 1885, Signor Luigi sailed into Jemulpo (modern Incheon) harbor aboard his small blue schooner, the Prospector, with the Italian flag proudly fluttering from its mast. Although the Prospector was the first Italian merchant vessel to visit a Korean port, it was not the first to sail into Korean waters. That dubious honor belonged to the 666-ton Italian barque Bianca Pertica, which wrecked off the coast of Jeju Island during a powerful typhoon in 1878, shortly after departing Nagasaki. Only one crew member survived, and he provided an account of his ordeal at sea and subsequent rescue by the islanders an account both fascinating and, at times, almost unbelievable. We know almost nothing about Signor Luigi, as his name does not appear in the regional directories. However, according to regional newspapers and Korean Customs records, the Prospector departed Nagasaki on Oct. 31 with a 5-ton cargo of general goods. There were only five men aboard the ship: Luigi, his unnamed German captain and three Japanese sailors. They sailed around Jeju Island to Geomundo (known as Port Hamilton on contemporary Western maps), a group of Korean islands then occupied by the British navy. Judging from other accounts, Luigi and his ship were likely not welcomed by the British garrisons commander even for a short stay and were probably encouraged to leave immediately, likely without ever setting foot ashore. From Port Hamilton, the Prospector sailed through the treacherous Korea Strait, where many ships in the past had met their doom. Fortunately for the schooner, it was smooth sailing, but several Korean junks were lost to storms in the following month some of their crews eventually drifted to Japanese waters and were rescued. But Korea was plagued with storms and not just those at sea. When the schooner arrived in Jemulpo, the port was abuzz with activity. Chen Shutang, the Chinese representative to Korea, was preparing to return to China. Although this was ostensibly due to poor health, it was more than likely due to his inability to negotiate the increasingly turbulent Korean politics and Russian influence that had prompted the preventive occupation of Port Hamilton. Prior to his departure, Chen attended a tiffin (luncheon) given by Carl Wolter, the representative of the German firm, Messrs. E. Meyer & Co., which at the time was the leading Western mercantile firm in the port. According to an eyewitness: His Excellency [Chen] was met there by the local Consular body (excepting the Japanese representative, who, unfortunately, had been unavoidably prevented from [attending] the gathering) and most other leading residents. Mr. Wolter did the honors of the day in his usual hospitable style, and a few hours at tiffin were most agreeably spent. The health, prosperity and success of the Minister were the subject of a very able toast by the host, to which His Excellency responded immediately in eloquent and fluent English, pronounced, however, with somewhat of an American accent; which cannot be wondered at considering that Chen formerly held a consular post in California. The unavoidable absence of the Japanese was due to the ongoing political maneuvering in Korea between the Chinese and Japanese governments following the failed Korean coup the previous year. The Chinese government supported the conservative Korean court, while Japan sided with the defeated progressive revolutionists even providing sanctuary to several of their leaders. Unfortunately, neither Luigi nor his crew left an account of their stay in Jemulpo. The only detail we know is that Luigi unsuccessfully tried to sell his schooner. However, from other sources, we learn that the country was wracked by uncertainty and change. Horace Allen, an American missionary, wrote in his diary on Dec. 1 that altogether we dont feel secure here just now. Rumors circulated that the Korean revolutionists in Japan had been supplied with dynamite in America and are now on their way back to blow up the Royal Family and others. According to Allen, the Korean monarch was so alarmed by these reports that he asked George C. Foulk, the naval officer serving as the American representative in Seoul, if there was any truth to the rumors. Many other ugly questions arose within the Korean court and on the streets of the capital, asking why the American government had not returned the traitors to Korea. In a letter to his parents, Foulk described Koreans as being deeply superstitious about dates, noting that the whole city believes violent unrest would sweep through Seoul on Dec. 4, the anniversary of the previous years failed coup. Foulk explained, When people make up their minds a row is coming in this part of the world, it is rather reasonable to suppose one will come. Almost as if tempting fate, an official dinner was held at the Foreign Office to honor the arrival of the new Chinese representative, Yuan Shikai. Foulk recalled that the streets were perfectly deserted as he made his way to the event. Unsurprisingly, he found only the Chinese representatives, four Korean officials and the secretary of the Russian Legation in attendance. Foulk continued: In a few minutes, the President of the Foreign Office said he was sick and went home. I asked where the other foreign officers were, and learned the Englishman had a headache, the German, dysentery (good! scared into it!), the Japanese were not well, and the Russian minister had hurt his leg! I snickered at all these lies, and felt comfortable because a coldness in my back made me think of the revolver, which was strapped up and down my spinal column. The dinner was a quiet affair. The atmosphere was heavy with fear and anticipation, heightened by the sound of servants poking holes into the paper doors and windows to peek in at the diners. On Dec. 5, Paul Georg von Mollendorff the former German adviser to the Korean government and his family departed Korea for China. Given his staunch anti-Japanese and pro-Russian sentiments, few foreigners in Seoul save the Chinese and Russians mourned his departure. However, many Koreans, including the royal family, were saddened to see him go. According to Mollendorffs biographer, Yur-bok Lee, Thousands of Korean well-wishers came to see [him] off. While Lees statement might be an exaggeration, a correspondent for a Chinese newspaper lends some credence to the claim. He observed that as Mollendorff and his family prepared to board a Chinese warship, a large company of Chinese, natives and foreigners, assembled on the new jetty, where there was no end to the leave-taking. The Japanese, however, were conspicuous by their absence. As the ship departed, three hearty cheers for the [German] rent the air. On the following day, Jemulpo was once again filled with excitement. A foreign resident, writing as a correspondent for a Chinese newspaper, reported on the days unusual festivities: [Today] our Japanese fellow residents celebrated well, what do you think? Nothing less than the massacre of last year! An enviable occasion to celebrate, truly. The Japanese burial grounds and the settlements for the live [Japanese] were gaily decorated with flags and illuminated at night, and during the daytime, many of our amiable Japanese fellow residents were fairly well illuminated themselves. Temperance Union, please dont copy. Although the exact date is uncertain, around this time, the Prospector departed the Land of the Morning Calm for Japan. The seas were, unsurprisingly, stormy, but on Dec. 21, the little blue schooner safely sailed into Nagasaki harbor. Within days of its arrival, another small schooner departed Yokohama, reportedly bound for Jemulpo. According to a Tokyo newspaper, on Dec. 26, the Penelope, an otter hunting schooner, departed Yokohama carrying a few boxes of dynamite, which were to be delivered to Korea presumably to Korean revolutionists. However, due to the strict vigilance of the Japanese authorities, the schooner diverted to Oshima Island to avoid suspicion. Unable to complete her mission, the Penelope returned to Yokohama on Jan. 3, 1886. A Yokohama newspaper, however, disputed this account from its Tokyo rival. It claimed the Penelope had, indeed, left port but not for Oshima Island, nor to avoid suspicion, but simply to sail down the ay with a party on a picnic. There was no dynamite. Despite this dismissal, the Yokohama editor conceded there was some grain of truth to the story: Some Japanese, apparently strangers in Yokohama, were last month seeking to charter a small foreign vessel at this port, and from their answers to the interrogatories of the owner of a suitable ship, they appeared to be persons entirely unaccustomed to the business proposed, and much disinclined to state the actual destination of the vessel. The strangers admitted their intended cargo was gunpowder. One schooner owner entertained the proposal but ultimately declined the charter. For his trouble and perhaps to keep the business secret the prospective charterers paid him $200. As to the fate of the Prospector, it remains unclear. A review of my copies of the Nagasaki shipping reports (printed in the local newspaper) yield no further mention of the ship. It is not difficult to imagine, however, that the schooner found new opportunities in one of the treaty ports of Japan or China the details of its adventure forgotten in some diplomatic archive. I wish to thank Diane Nars for her invaluable assistance and for allowing me to use her image. Robert Neff has authored and co-authored several books, including "Letters from Joseon," "Korea Through Western Eyes" and "Brief Encounters." By Han Song-mi When I was growing up in North Korea, I didnt know about a country called India. The reason is that I was busy just surviving in the countryside of North Korea. Our family lived in extreme poverty, so we didnt even have a TV at home. Because of the difficult life circumstances, I had no opportunities to access information about the outside world. In my two trips to India this year, I saw that the wealthy lived extremely well while the poor were homeless on the streets, begging with their children. Some of them would even approach our car and tap on the window trying to get our attention. Seeing this reminded me of my own experience being homeless in North Korea. The stark divide between the rich and poor seemed very similar to what I experienced in North Korea. However, I thought India still could not be compared to North Korea. In India, families are not forcibly separated and made to live apart. People are not brainwashed with false information or face severe consequences for not following orders. In India, although many are poor, they all live in freedom, which is unimaginable for those living in North Korea. Compared to people living in North Korea, especially those in rural areas, people in India despite their hardships seemed to be in a better situation because they live freely without being subjected to fear and submission. In North Korea, especially those living in central regions, people are not only deprived of their freedom but also unaware that it has been taken away from them. They live as if they are blindly devoted to the Kim family as if they were gods. Compared to that, I think life in India is a hundred times better. I have now been to India twice, once in July and the second in December. In July, I gave speeches, had book signing events, and met with Indian college students, opinion leaders, reporters and influencers. This time, from Dec. 9 to 11, I went to India as a representative of Freedom Speakers International (FSI) receiving a Global Peace Award from the All India Council on Human Rights, Liberties and Social Justice. I had the chance to stand on such an honorable stage. For me, attending an international award ceremony felt like a dream I didnt know about, that had come true. I was just grateful to even attend an international award ceremony. When I went up on stage to help accept the award, I was so nervous. Even now, as I write this, my heart is trembling and I feel a bit shaky. I want to thank Dr. Anthony Raju of the All India Council on Human Rights, Liberties and Social Justice for giving the award to FSI, to FSI co-founder Lee Eun-koo for everything she does for North Korean refugees, and the South Korean team based in India for making both trips so enjoyable. I also got to visit Indian landmarks such as the Red Fort and Taj Mahal. If I were still in North Korea, I would have never had the chance to meet such lovely people, to visit India, and to learn about its history. I believe all of this was possible because I met Casey Lartigue, FSIs co-founder. I also believe it was by Gods grace that I was able to meet Casey. So, I first want to offer my gratitude to God, and next, I want to thank Casey for everything. Han Song-mi is a North Korean Refugee Author Fellow with Freedom Speakers International and co-author with Casey Lartigue Jr. of her memoir, Greenlight to Freedom: A North Korean Daughters Search for Her Mother and Herself. Angry public recalls humidifier disinfectant scandal By Ko Dong-hwan There are growing signs of a boycott against products manufactured by Aekyung Group, the parent company of Jeju Air, following the crash of one of its aircraft at Muan International Airport on Sunday, which claimed the lives of 179 people on board. The boycott, fueled by public outrage over the incident and lingering cynicism surrounding an ongoing legal battle involving the groups humidifier disinfectant products linked to a series of injuries and fatalities poses a significant threat to the groups public image and future business prospects. People have begun sharing information online about retail products manufactured by Aekyungs subsidiaries, urging others to boycott them. The products include cosmetics, haircare, dental care, hygiene, and home care items. Most of these products are made by Aekyung Industrial, which manufactures everyday household goods. The movement is spreading fast across social networking platforms, including X. These are the brands of Aekyung Group, which owns Jeju Air, said a post on social media on Tuesday, accompanied by a montage of logos from dozens of brands, including 2080 toothpaste, Kerasys haircare, Trio kitchen cleaner, and LUNA cosmetics. The post urged viewers to boycott these products. Public sentiment driving the boycott is multifaceted. A major concern driving the boycott is the increasing suspicion that Jeju Air may have been overworking its planes while neglecting necessary maintenance. Investigators found that, during the third quarter, Jeju Airs flights accumulated a total of 418 service hours per month, far exceeding the monthly operating hours of other domestic carriers both full-service and low-cost by 63 to 83 hours. This revelation has sparked fears that the airline prioritized profit over the safety and well-being of its passengers. The boycott was further fueled by the fact that it took Aekyung Group Chairwoman Chang Young-shin 11 hours to issue a statement of apology after the disaster occurred. Additionally, it was revealed that the statement was initially shared only with news reporters, rather than being directly addressed to the public. Aekyung Industrials ongoing legal battle with victims of its humidifier disinfectant products has also fueled the boycott. The case involves allegations that the products caused injuries to the lungs and other respiratory organs of 98 consumers between 2002 and 2011, 12 of whom ultimately died. On Dec. 26, the Supreme Court sent the case back to the Seoul High Court, overturning a four-year prison term for the companys former CEO Ahn Yong-chan. At that time, the ruling said it was unclear whether the victims were affected solely by the disinfectants. Aekyung Group jointly established Jeju Air with the Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Government in 2005. The groups holding company, AK Holdings, holds the largest stake of 50.37 percent in the low-cost carrier (LCC). Following the global financial crisis in 2009, the group committed to the airline by selling off its underperforming duty-free business and reinvesting the proceeds into the carrier. Jeju Air became a listed company in 2015, making it the first Korean LCC to go public. Since then, the company has maintained the largest market share in the countrys budget carrier industry. Among AK Group's five subsidiaries, Jeju Air has remained the most profitable. In 2023, the airline achieved sales of 1.72 trillion won ($1.17 billion) and an operating profit of 170 billion won. These earnings were higher than the combined profits of Aekyung Chemical and Aekyung Industrial, which achieved the second- and third-largest earnings, respectively, among the group's subsidiaries during the same period. Budget carriers suffer stock fall amid tainted image By Lee Min-hyung The tragic crash of a passenger jet operated by Jeju Air is feared to spark a spree of air ticket cancellations for other low-cost carriers (LCCs) amid customers growing distrust in the safety of budget carriers, industry officials said Tuesday. Some 70,000 Jeju Air flight tickets were canceled a day after the accident on Sunday, apparently due to escalating woes over the safety of the Boeing 737-800 jetliner. Jeju Air relies on the model to operate most of its domestic and international flights. The incident claimed 179 lives after the ill-fated aircraft crashed into a concrete wall on Sunday at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province. A landing gear malfunction triggered the fatal crash. Of particular concern is not just Jeju Air but other LCCs such as Jin Air and Tway Air which might also sustain damages in the aftermath of the tragedy, as the overall corporate image of budget carriers has been seriously tarnished, aviation industry officials said. As most LCCs operate the same Boeing 737-800 jets, (there are) concerns over the customers' growing distrust of the model, which will result in an earnings fall to budget carriers here, an official from the aviation industry said. For now, some 100 738-800 aircraft are operated by most LCCs here. Jeju Air tops the list with 39 737-800 jets, followed by 27 from Tway Air and 19 from Jin Air. Jeju Air achieved robust earnings growth for the first three quarters combined this year, with its sales coming in at 1.42 trillion won ($964.8 million), up 16.1 percent from a year earlier. However, the airlines operating profit plunged by 24 percent during the same period, hit by the prolonged appreciation of the U.S. dollar and soaring fuel prices. Such external risk factors still come as a major stumbling block for LCCs to ensure their profitability, but the status quo may take a turn for the worse due to possible travel demand fall following the tragedy, the official said. Shares of Jeju Air went on a losing streak on Tuesday after closing with an 8.65 percent drop a day earlier. Other LCCs, such as Jin Air and Tway Air, also failed to bounce back in stock value due to the prevalent pessimism on budget carriers. The nations travel agencies also fear sequential shocks from the deadly plane crash after the government declared a period of national mourning for a week until Sunday. Even after the end of the period, demand for travel or seasonal leisure activities marking the New Year is unlikely to achieve rapid rebound amid lingering safety concerns, an official from the travel industry said. Koreas aviation and travel industry will have to grapple with a double blow due to the ongoing political deadlock amid lack of a state control tower and the plane crash, at least until the first quarter of 2025, the official said. These factors will also restrain foreigners travel demand to Korea, which will also have a negative impact on the hotel industry nationwide, the official said. By Lee Min-hyung Hyundai Steel participated in an end-of-year blood donation campaign for children with pediatric cancer as part of its efforts to fulfill corporate social responsibility, the company said Tuesday. Employees and executives of the steelmaker gave 1,004 blood donation cards to the Korea Childhood Leukemia Foundation on Dec. 24, as part of a voluntary campaign to support young patients from socially vulnerable groups. Hyundai Steel has conducted active blood donation campaigns at its headquarters and major worksites nationwide for the past six months, an official from the company said. Blood donation is an act of life sharing. We will keep fulfilling the social role by holding such campaigns sustainably. Hyundai Steel has stood at the forefront of donating blood cards for nearly two decades. Employees of the firms steel plant in Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province, have been actively participating in the campaign since 2005. In 2019, the number of accumulated blood donation participants at the plant topped 10,000 for the first time. The provincial government also awarded a commendation to the company, recognizing its commitment to social responsibility. Hyundai Steel has operated blood donation buses at each of its worksites to encourage more staff to take part in the campaign. The company also organizes diverse prize events for employees who give blood donation cards, further motivating them to join the social campaign. Washington ramps up efforts to defend Big Techs dominance By Park Jae-hyuk U.S. criticism of Koreas proposed online platform regulations has intensified as former U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House in January next year. Amid the strong criticism of Koreas plan to regulate market-dominant platform operators, concerns are rising that this issue could lead to economic retaliation from the incoming U.S. administration against its ally. On Tuesday, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce issued another statement condemning Koreas approach to regulating digital platforms. This followed a previous one published in January, which highlighted concerns that the proposed competition policy could unintentionally benefit Chinese latecomers like AliExpress and Temu. This proposal would put the Korean government in a position of managing competition outcomes, rather than promoting competition in the market, said Charles Freeman, the chambers senior vice president for Asia. Such government micromanagement of the economy will dull Koreas growth and long-term competitiveness. It also could position Korea to run afoul of its international trade commitments. He made the remarks three months after the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) dropped its plan to pre-designate dominant platform firms and introduced a standard for such players, so that they will be subject to heightened regulatory scrutiny by the antitrust watchdog afterward. The FTCs decision was attributed to a strong backlash from both Korean and U.S. tech firms. Although the revised plan is seen as more lenient compared to the main opposition Democratic Party of Koreas suggestion of pre-designating dominant players, the U.S. business lobby group is opposing both approaches. In cooperation with lawmakers from the People Power Party, the FTC has put forward a bill in the National Assembly that, if passed, would target certain companies, while leaving out other competitors, both those based in Korea and in third countries, including China, Freeman said. There are more than a dozen other legislative proposals for platform regulation that have been introduced in the National Assembly this year. Many of them share similarly troubling features. Jamieson Greer, who was nominated as the U.S. trade representative under the Trump administration, is another critic of Koreas online platform regulations, viewing the new law as a "threat to the trade relationship between the two countries." On Dec. 9, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation published a report titled, Why South Korea Should Resist New Digital Platform Laws. With U.S. elections over, South Korea risks a backlash from a new administration unlikely to tolerate policies that harm major U.S. businesses, said the Washington-based think tank focused on public policy surrounding industry and technology. The Digital Economy Research Institute under the Korea Internet Corporations Association also warned that online platform regulations may prompt the Trump administration to impose tariffs on Korean products or take other retaliatory measures in accordance with Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. Having clashed with major U.S. online platform operators before his reelection, Trump has recently adopted a friendlier stance toward them, following the so-called great capitulation of Silicon Valley moguls. He recently held a series of meetings with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Alphabet co-founder Sergey Brin and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who expressed their intention to financially support the incoming U.S. administration. In the first term, everyone was fighting me. In this term, everybody wants to be my friend, Trump told reporters on Monday. However, the Korean government appears unlikely to scrap its planned regulations, as a hearing at the National Assembly on Wednesday reaffirmed a consensus between the rival parties on the need for new measures to prevent anti-competitive business practices by platform firms. By Nam Hyun-woo Progress in artificial intelligence (AI) chips and quantum technologies has been recognized as the top achievements in Korea's research and development (R&D) efforts for 2024, raising hopes that these advancements could serve as a cornerstone for the nation's technological breakthroughs that can reshape the national economy and society. The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP) on Sunday announced this years top R&D achievements in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, as part of an evaluation of the governments 2024 investments worth 1 trillion won ($677.5 million) to assist businesses and research institutions. In terms of technological progress, the government said domestic chipmakers made noteworthy progress in developing low-power AI processors that can challenge the global dominance of Nvidia. Rebellions, an AI accelerator developer boosted by the governments 5.51 billion won R&D assistance, successfully began the mass production of its neural processing unit (NPU), ATOM, this year. It gained international attention for its ability to accelerate AI inference with low power consumption. Rebellions achieved approximately 20 billion won in mass-production sales as of September 2023 across the world and became a unicorn company an unlisted company valued over $1 billion following its merger with SAPEON, another domestic AI chipmaker, this month. Another startup, FuriosaAI, developed the Renegade, an inference-focused NPU semiconductor. The Renegade boasts over 60 percent higher energy efficiency compared to Nvidia's L40S while being half its price. The company is now accelerating its commercialization efforts. In March, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology developed the worlds first Complementary-Transformer AI semiconductor chip that can process a GPT-2 model with an ultra-low power consumption of 400 milliwatts and a high speed of 0.4 seconds. In the fields of quantum technology, the government said the country has witnessed visible achievements in the fields of quantum communication and sensing this year after investing 36.9 billion won so far. The nation became the third in the world to successfully transmit quantum information over a real-world optical fiber network spanning 16.4 kilometers. Researchers at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute demonstrated this technology by distributing quantum entanglement over distances exceeding 100 kilometers in September. A number of notable achievements were also reported in the field of digital infrastructure. SOLiD, which participated in the governments telecommunications R&D projects, became the worlds third-biggest company in the distributed antenna system (DAS) market, achieving a 14 percent market share. SOLiD exported its DAS solutions to high-profile international projects, including the London Underground in England, the Olympic Stadium in France and the Catalonia Stadium in Spain. Technologies in the fields of AI, AI chips and networks are key sovereign technologies that will determine not only the nation's competitiveness but also its survival in the time of AI transformation, IITP President Hong Jin-bae said. IITP will spare no efforts for innovative R&D planning, evaluation and management, fostering collaboration between industry, academia and research organizations to ensure that R&D outcomes extend beyond mere research to deliver globally recognized achievements. Samsung, LG to showcase latest advances in AI applications By Nam Hyun-woo The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 is fast approaching, with the world's leading technology companies preparing to showcase their latest innovations to a global audience in Las Vegas, transforming the city into the stage for the world's largest and most influential tech exhibition. Building on the momentum of CES 2024, artificial intelligence (AI) will again take center stage at CES 2025, slated to take place from Jan. 7 to 10. Participants are gearing up to demonstrate real-world applications of their technologies, aiming to show that their advancements go beyond mere hype and deliver tangible value. In addition to unveiling new products and devices, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's keynote speech is poised to be a major highlight, capturing the attention of audiences and setting the tone for the event. Widely regarded as one of the tech industry's most influential figures, Huang is expected to share his vision for Nvidia's advancements in AI computing and unveil new graphics processing units (GPUs) based on the cutting-edge Blackwell architecture. Industry watchers are closely anticipating Huang's remarks on the AI chip supply chain, which could offer valuable insights into the future of major memory chip suppliers, including SK hynix and Samsung Electronics. Against this backdrop, attention is growing around a potential meeting between Huang and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won. According to the group, preparations are underway for Cheys visit to CES 2025, although his attendance remains uncertain due to the ongoing political turmoil in Korea. Chey has emphasized the significance of the so-called trilateral alliance between Nvidia, SK hynix, and TSMC in the development of Nvidias AI accelerators. This partnership is seen as a key factor in advancing the capabilities of AI technologies. During SK Group's AI conference on Nov. 4, Chey revealed that Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has been consistently requesting more high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips whenever a new GPU is released. He mentioned that Huang specifically asked SK hynix to expedite the delivery schedule, particularly moving up the supply timeline for the upcoming HBM4 chips by six months. During the conference, Huang also sent a video message, highlighting the significant role of HBM memories in enabling Nvidia's breakthroughs. He said, "The work that we did with HBM memories has really made it possible for us to achieve what appears to be super Moore's law." Moores law refers to a theory that the number of transistors on a computer chip roughly doubles every two years. To showcase its advancements in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) technology, SK hynix will set up an exhibition at CES 2025, highlighting its latest memory chips, including the HBM3e. This new generation of memory chips is already being supplied to Nvidia for its cutting-edge AI processors. On the other hand, Samsung Electronics is seeking to use CES 2025 as a chance to expand its HBM client base. While SK hynix has been capitalizing on its strong supply chain relationship with Nvidia, Samsung Electronics, the worlds biggest memory chipmaker, has been struggling to provide its HBM to Nvidia. During a third-quarter earnings call in October, Samsung stated plans to expand its HBM3e chip offerings to major clients, including Nvidia. However, reports suggest that progress in meeting these expectations has been delayed. Against this backdrop, Samsung appears to be focusing on engaging with its partner companies in private zones during CES 2025. While Samsung's Device Solutions division set up an independent booth at CES 2024 to showcase its latest memory chip technologies, it will not establish a booth at this year's event. AI applications Aside from AI chips, Korean firms are planning to highlight their exhibitions with practical applications of AI in real-world services. Under the theme of AI for All, Samsung Electronics will showcase its AI-powered home solution, which enables remote monitoring and control of all home appliances. CEO and Vice Chairman Han Jong-hee is set to elaborate on the companys vision for AI in the home during a press conference on Jan. 6, one day before the official opening of CES 2025. LG Electronics will showcase its AI-powered in-cabin sensing technology, along with a range of new home appliances embedded with AI functions, to highlight real-world user experiences. CEO Cho Joo-wan will also hold a press conference on Jan. 6 to share the companys vision on how AI can transform users daily lives. SK Group will highlight its subsidiaries' contributions to the AI value chain, spanning from chips to datacenters. SK hynix will showcase its latest HBM chips, while Rebellions will introduce its neural processing unit-based AI accelerators. SK Telecom plans to exhibit its datacenter solutions and AI agents. Among Hyundai Motor Group companies, Hyundai Mobis will be the only unit participating in CES 2025. The auto parts maker will highlight its latest innovations, including a holographic display that projects various information onto vehicles' windshields and a brainwave-based monitoring system designed to assess the driver's condition. Along with the conglomerates, approximately 800 Korean companies will participate in CES 2025. The Ministry of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and Startups will set up a Korea booth showcasing 127 domestic startups. Koreas startups and SMEs are also gaining traction on the global stage, winning innovation awards from CES organizer, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). As of Dec. 30, CTA awarded 363 innovation awards for CES 2025, with 124 out of 162 Korean firms receiving recognition in the SME category. TMON, WeMakePrice wallow in doldrums By Ko Dong-hwan This year, Coupang solidified its position as a leader in Korea's e-commerce industry, achieving profitability in the third quarter and posting record-breaking quarterly sales. At the same time, Chinese platforms are quickly gaining popularity among local consumers, drawing attention with prices that are significantly more competitive than those offered by their Korean rivals. In contrast, other players in the industry faced considerable challenges, struggling with cost-cutting measures and legal disputes over unpaid dues to tenant vendors. Industry analysts anticipate that the competitive landscape will become even more polarized and sharply defined in the year ahead. Coupang, known for its fast Rocket Delivery service, reported sales of 10.6 trillion won ($7.22 billion) in the third quarter, according to its holding companys November disclosure. Operating profit for the same period reached 148 billion won, marking a significant turnaround from a 34.2 billion won deficit in the previous quarter. In 2023, Coupang set a new annual sales record, surpassing 31.8 trillion won, while operating profit reached 617 billion won. This year, the company is expected to exceed 40 trillion won in sales. Its immense popularity is evident throughout Seoul, where Coupangs insulated delivery boxes are a common sight in front of residential doorsteps. The company has also announced plans to invest 3 trillion won by 2026 to expand its "Rocket Delivery" service, ensuring that online orders can be delivered nationwide by the next day. This ambitious strategy is expected to further solidify Coupang's position as the leader in Korea's e-commerce market. This year, Chinese e-commerce platforms like AliExpress and Temu have made a significant impact on the market. Initially, there were concerns about the quality of products on these Chinese e-commerce platforms, with fears that some items might be defective or pose health risks to consumers. However, the main appeal of Chese e-commerce platforms the affordability of products helped ease these concerns, enabling them to keep growing and expanding their market shares. According to smartphone app data analysis firm Wiseapp, AliExpress became the second most popular online shopping platform during the first 10 months of this year. The platform's rising popularity aligns with the overall increase in market prices across the country's retail sectors this year, which has driven consumers to seek more affordable products. AliExpress last week also made headlines saying it formed a partnership with Shinsegae Group to upgrade the Korean retail conglomerates e-commerce platform called Gmarket. Using the Chinese companys global distribution network reaching 200 countries, the Korean platform will be able to connect its tenant vendors with global consumers, Shinsegae said. The partnership indicates that Chinese e-commerce companies, which previously prompted the Korean government to hold emergency meetings to curb their growing market influence in Korea, are now also willing to support their Korean counterparts. Less popular e-commerce platforms like SSG.com, Lotte ON and 11th street are reducing costs and restructuring themselves to survive the market. SSG.com, another e-commerce platform under Shinsegae Group, appointed a new CEO in June and downsized its four divisions to two. Meanwhile, Lotte ON began encouraging employees to voluntarily resign earlier this year amid declining sales. 11st Street relocated from downtown Seoul to Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, in order to reduce office rental costs. The industry experienced some of its worst fallout this year, with TMON and WeMakePrice facing major difficulties. Due to dwindling sales, both companies repeatedly delayed payments to their tenant vendors, leading many to go bankrupt. According to prosecutors investigating the companies parent firm, Qoo10, the financial damage amounted to approximately 1.85 trillion won, affecting around 330,000 vendors and consumers. The authorities accused the three companies of embezzling around 100 billion won in corporate funds and causing loss of 72.7 billion won in losses to TMON, WeMakePrice, and another affiliate, Interpark Commerce, through unfair intergroup transactions. Land ministry launches investigation into Boeing 737-800 By Lee Min-hyung A fatal crash of a Jeju Air passenger jet has sparked controversy over whether greater responsibility lies with the low-cost carrier (LCC) or Boeing, the manufacturer of the ill-fated 737-800 aircraft. The jetliner, carrying 181 passengers and crew, crashed into a concrete wall on Sunday morning while making an emergency landing at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province due to a landing gear malfunction. The deadly incident claimed 179 lives, leaving only two survivors both crew members. Even though an investigation is still underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, all eyes are focused on assigning accountability for what is now the deadliest aviation disaster in Korea's history. Adding to the controversy, just one day after the tragedy, another Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air, which had departed from Gimpo International Airport, was forced to return due to the same landing gear issue. This incident has intensified speculation that the airline's poor maintenance may have played a role in the earlier accident. However, Jeju Air rejected the allegations of inadequate aircraft maintenance, insisting that it places the utmost priority on ensuring the safety of its aircraft. We cannot agree with any argument that our maintenance environment remains poor, Song Kyung-hoon, head of the airlines management support office, told reporters on Sunday afternoon. Jeju Air has never skipped any procedures on maintenance, nor did we make light of safety. Addressing the Monday incident, Song stated, We identified the landing gear malfunction after takeoff, but the plane returned to normal operation shortly thereafter. However, the captain decided to return to ensure safety. In 2022, a Jeju Air aircraft, which departed from Kansai International Airport in Japan, had to return shortly after takeoff due to an engine failure caused by a bird strike. However, a post on Blind, an anonymous community app for office workers in Korea, written by someone claiming to be a Jeju Air employee, sparked controversy by alleging that the carrier had covered up the engine failure as a bird strike. However, Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae said the two aircraft malfunctions were not related. On the other hand, some argue that Boeing is to blame for the latest incident, pointing to repeated reports of malfunctions involving the aircraft model around the world. Another Boeing 737-800 passenger jet, operated by KLM, made an emergency landing after experiencing a hydraulic failure on its flight from Oslo, Norway to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Sunday (local time). The 737-800 has also faced similar landing gear issues in India and the United Kingdom. The aircraft is one of the best-selling models for Boeing. Most LCCs here, such as Jeju Air, Tway Air, Jin Air and Eastar Air, operate the aircraft. There are a total of 101 737-800s in operation in Korea: 39 by Jeju Air, 27 by T'way Air, 19 by Jin Air, 10 by Eastar Jet, four by Air Incheon, and two by Korean Air. In response to the concerns, Korean authorities initiated a special inspection of local carriers to determine whether they are adhering to maintenance regulations for the 737-800 model. We will conduct comprehensive safety inspections on the models maintenance reports and scrutinize whether each carrier complies with aviation maintenance regulations, an official from the transport ministry said. Hit by the involvement in the deadly crash, Jeju Air suffered a steep fall in its stock value. Shares of the LCC plummeted more than 15 percent on Monday morning. A surge in cancellations of travel deals and airline tickets was reported Monday as concerns over aviation safety mounted following a deadly airliner crash that claimed 179 lives, according to industry sources. Jeju Air revealed that 68,000 flight reservations had been canceled as of 1 p.m. Of the canceled tickets, over 33,000 were for domestic flights, while 34,000 were for international routes. The airline noted that most of the cancellations occurred after 9 a.m. on Sunday, when its flight 7C2216, carrying 181 people, crashed at Muan International Airport in the southwestern county of Muan. Local travel agencies also reported a spike in cancellations of tour packages in the aftermath of the tragedy. Many of them have suspended their TV and online advertisements and promotional campaigns. "We had about 40 inquiries regarding travel cancellations on Sunday alone," said a travel agent who requested anonymity. "We saw about double the usual amount of cancellations and a 50 percent decrease in bookings." Industry sources said the travel industry is closely monitoring the situation, anticipating continued impact as public anxiety over aviation safety continues to grow. (Yonhap) A state funeral for Jimmy Carter, the former U.S. president who died on Sunday at the age of 100, will be held at the Washington National Cathedral on Jan. 9, according to the U.S. Army. U.S. President Joe Biden, who last year said that Carter had asked him to deliver the eulogy at his funeral, has directed that Jan. 9 be a national day of mourning for Carter throughout the U.S. The official six-day state funeral for Carter begins on Saturday as his remains travel by motorcade through his hometown of Plains, Georgia, the Army said in a statement. The motorcade carrying Carter will stop at the farm where he grew up. There, the National Park Service will ring the historic farm bell 39 times Carter was the 39th U.S. President. Carter's remains will then be carried to Atlanta, where he will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center until the morning of Jan. 7. His body will then be flown to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol until his national funeral ceremony. The family will hold a private funeral and interment in Georgia later on Jan. 9, after the ceremony at the Washington National Cathedral. Carter will be buried in a plot next to his wife, Rosalynn Carter, on the grounds of their longtime home in Plains. Carter, a Democrat, became president in January 1977 after defeating incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford in the 1976 election. His one-term presidency was marked by the 1978 Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt, bringing some stability to the Middle East. Carter spent his long post-presidential career devoted to humanitarian work, for which he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. World leaders and former U.S. presidents have paid tribute to a man they praised as compassionate, humble and committed to peace in the Middle East. (Reuters) Ukraine and Russia carried out a new exchange of prisoners of war on Monday, with the two sides bringing home a combined total of more than 300 former captives. Kyiv brought home 189 former captives, President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy and Russia's Defense Ministry said, while the Russian ministry said 150 Russian servicemen were returning home. The Russian ministry said the captives had been released in Belarus, Moscow's close ally in the 34-month-old war with Ukraine, and would be transferred to Russia. Reuters Television footage in Ukraine showed waiting spouses and some servicemen, many wrapped in blue and yellow national flags, weeping openly as they were reunited well after dark outside a building. A child's incredulous voice resounded over a mobile telephone: "Dad, is that you?" "My son is 5 years old now, the last time I saw him he was 2 years old," said Serhii, who was captured by Russian forces at the Azovstal steel mill in the southern port Mariupol, which withstood a siege for nearly three months in 2022. "That's why my son probably didn't recognize me. I used to have a beard and hair. I lost 20 kg (44 pounds)." For some former captives the return to freedom involved adjustment. "Even now I'm holding my hands behind my back, it has become a habit of mine," said Roman Borshch, 29. "Now I have to get used to being a free person again." Video posted by the Russian Defense Ministry showed smiling servicemen on a bus, some calling their families. "We'll soon be home. How are the children? How is our boy?" said one man. "I am overwhelmed by emotion," said another. "I still can't quite believe that this has happened, that I am back home, that the ministry made such efforts, that we are remembered and valued." Zelenskiyy thanked United Arab Emirates authorities and other partners for facilitating the swap. The United Arab Emirates acknowledged it helped arrange the exchange. "The return of our people from Russian captivity is always very good news for each of us. And today is one of such days: our team managed to bring 189 Ukrainians home," Zelenskiyy said on Telegram. There was no immediate explanation for why more Ukrainians than Russians were listed as released; the freed Ukrainians included civilians who had been in Russian captivity. Zelenskiyy said the returning Ukrainians included soldiers, sergeants and officers from frontline areas and two civilians who had been captured in Mariupol. Besieged steel mill Denys Prokopenko, commander of the 12th Special Forces "Azov" Brigade that defended the Azovstal mill, said 11 of his men were among those returning. Prokopenko was brought home in an earlier swap. The Ukrainian body overseeing prisoner swaps said it was the 59th exchange between the two sides since Russia's February 2022 invasion of its smaller neighbor. The swap brought to 3,956 the number of Ukrainian detainees brought home. It said those brought home this year included Ukrainian nationals serving what it described as "so-called sentences" imposed by Russian courts for various offenses. In the last swap in October, also carried out with assistance from the United Arab Emirates, Russia and Ukraine each brought home 95 detainees. (Reuters) U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's pick for senior defence official may signal his incoming administration's move to adjust the role of U.S. troops in South Korea to focus more on containing China, according to analysts. On December 22, Elbridge Colby, who was the deputy assistant secretary of defence for strategy and force development during Trump's first term, was announced as the next under secretary of defence for policy, No 3 in the Pentagon responsible for the formation of national security and defence policy. On his Truth Social account, Trump wrote that Colby would work closely with the secretary of defence nominee Pete Hegseth to "restore" Washington's military power and achieve a policy of "peace through strength". Colby has been calling for U.S. military resources to be concentrated on a denial strategy against China's rise in the Indo-Pacific, instead of dispersing U.S. defence resources to other regions such as Europe, aligning with Trump's campaign pledge to end the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. A major contrast between traditional U.S. strategies in the Indo-Pacific region and Colby's overall policy agenda appears in the roles played by the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) stationed in South Korea, a contingent that focuses on responding to North Korean threats. Traditional defence officials in Trump's previous administration advocated for the USFK's role in responding to North Korean threats with a more hawkish stance against its nuclear and missile development. However, Colby is sceptical that Pyongyang will give up its nuclear weapons and believes that U.S. troops in South Korea must instead be used to contain China's military threat, leaving Seoul to defend itself against North Korea. South Korea hosts 28,500 U.S. troops in its territory mostly army and air force personnel. Trump repeatedly said during his presidential campaign that South Korea must defend itself and should pay up to $10 billion for stationing U.S. troops in the country nine times greater than the $1.14 billion expected to be paid in 2026. In his 2021 book The Strategy of Denial: American Defence in an Age of Great Power Conflict, Colby argued that South Korea was likely to "grow increasingly challenging to defend from a determinedU.S.hinese assault" because of its proximity to China, but that including South Korea in the US defence perimeter against Beijing would be "worth the challenges." "[South] Korea is important to the effective defence of Japan; if China were able to use South Korea as a base of operations, it would greatly complicate the defence of Japan," Colby wrote. "Particularly given that the conventional military threat from North Korea has substantially receded in recent decades, if that from China grows, then South Korea and the United States can increasingly redirect their defence preparations toward defending against a potential assault by China." Colby's repeated his position in an interview with the South Korean news agency Yonhap in May, when he said U.S. forces on the Korean peninsula "should not be held hostage to dealing with the North Korean problem" as it was not the primary issue for Washington and that the U.S. should be "focused on China and the defence of South Korea from China over time." "South Korea is going to have to take primary, essentially overwhelming, responsibility for its own self-defence against North Korea because we don't have a military that can fight North Korea and then be ready to fight China," Colby said. "The fundamental fact is that North Korea is not a primary threat to the U.S.. It would not be rational to lose multiple American cities to just deal with North Korea. That's a different calculation for South Korea ... We need to realistically evaluate an approach." He also said "all options" should be on the table to ensure South Korea's security, including its nuclear armament in the face of a nuclear build-up in North Korea and China. Patrick Cronin, chair for Asia-Pacific Security at Hudson Institute, said the second Trump administration expected allies to "shoulder more burdens to maintain a favourable balance of power," such as including South Korea in U.S.-led regional contingency plans. "It is reasonable to expect Elbridge Colby, if confirmed as under secretary of defence, to elevate those efforts," Cronin said. "There are myriad ways, both direct and indirect, that South Korea could help contribute to security on and off the peninsula." Kim Heung-kyu, director of the U.S.-China Policy Institute at Ajou University in Suwon, South Korea, said that with the nomination of Colby, the role of American troops in South Korea was expected to be "more focused on checking China than on the existing mission of suppressing North Korea." "The importance of the USFK will be emphasised as it is the closest U.S. military located to China." He said it was inevitable, however, that the U.S. military presence in South Korea would be reorganised and dispersed because of restructuring "according to the strategy vis-a-vis China". He said Trump would try to "enhance his prestige and secure strategic flexibility by managing his relationship with North Korea" through negotiations, which could lead to discussions about South Korea's nuclear armament. "China will naturally oppose South Korea's nuclear armament, but considering the stability of the Korean peninsula and its relationship with South Korea, it cannot unconditionally oppose South Korea's nuclear armament. Instead, [Beijing's] efforts should be made to establish an alternative military cooperation system that can stabilise this region or the Korean peninsula," Kim said. Yoon Suk-joon, a senior fellow at the Korea Institute for Military Affairs in Seoul and a specialist in the Chinese military, said the role of the USFK was now "beyond the Korean peninsula", meaning that Washington sought to expand the scope of the alliance with Seoul to bring South Korea's military into its Indo-Pacific strategy. Yoon said the U.S. Department of Defence and other institutions "think it would be more appropriate for an operational commander to go to the Indo-Pacific and North Pacific who can take care of North Korea, Russia and China together. That means that the role of the U.S. military commander in South Korea is now aimed not only at North Korea, but also at Russia and China." Kang Jun-young, a professor of Chinese studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, said that in the South Korea-U.S.-Japan trilateral security cooperation, South Korea's priority was North Korea's nuclear weapons, while the U.S. and Japan's priority was to contain China. A problem may arise in "how to fill this gap." "Perspectives from the Trump administration, especially from the defense sector, [are] that China and the U.S. could eventually go to war and - even if it is not a direct war between them - problems could arise in the Taiwan Strait or other places," said Kang. "So the role of U.S. forces in Korea should be adjusted in preparation for that." Timothy Heath, a senior international defense researcher at U.S.-based think tank Rand Corporation, said that prioritising China as a responsibility "may make sense from Colby's perspective." However, it raised the question of why Seoul should host U.S. troops if they were not defending South Korea from the North Korean threat, he added. "It is unclear if U.S. forces would remain in Korea if USFK prioritises China over the DPRK," Heath said, referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or North Korea. "If an agreement could be made where U.S. forces could participate in missions related to China as well as the DPRK, the main contribution in a Taiwan war would probably be the USFK's aviation forces and facilities." Heath noted that "naval-based air forces could assist as well, though the long distance might limit how much they could participate." Read the full story at SCMP. A machinists strike. Another safety problem involving its troubled top-selling airliner. A plunging stock price. 2024 was already a dispiriting year for Boeing, the American aviation giant. But when one of the company's jets crash-landed in Korea on Sunday, killing all but two of the 181 people on board, it brought to a close an especially unfortunate year for Boeing. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and aviation experts were quick to distinguish Sunday's incident from the companys earlier safety problems. Alan Price, a former chief pilot at Delta Air Lines who is now a consultant, said it would be inappropriate to link the incident Sunday to two fatal crashes involving Boeings troubled 737 Max jetliner in 2018 and 2019. In January this year, a door plug blew off a 737 Max while it was in flight, raising more questions about the plane. The Boeing 737-800 that crash-landed in Korea, Price noted, is a very proven airplane. "Its different from the Max ... Its a very safe airplane. For decades, Boeing has maintained a role as one of the giants of American manufacturing. But the past year's repeated troubles have been damaging. The company's stock price is down more than 30 percent in 2024. The company's reputation for safety was especially tarnished by the 737 Max crashes, which occurred off the coast of Indonesia and in Ethiopia less than five months apart in 2018 and 2019 and left a combined 346 people dead. In the five years since then, Boeing has lost more than $23 billion. And it has fallen behind its European rival, Airbus, in selling and delivering new planes. Last fall, 33,000 Boeing machinists went on strike, crippling the production of the 737 Max, the company's bestseller, the 777 airliner and 767 cargo plane. The walkout lasted seven weeks, until members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers agreed to an offer that included 38 percent pay raises over four years. In January, a door plug blew off a 737 Max during an Alaska Airlines flight. Federal regulators responded by imposing limits on Boeing aircraft production that they said would remain in place until they felt confident about manufacturing safety at the company. In July, Boeing agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud for deceiving the Federal Aviation Administration regulators who approved the 737 Max. Acting on Boeings incomplete disclosures, the FAA approved minimal, computer-based training instead of more intensive training in flight simulators. Simulator training would have increased the cost for airlines to operate the Max and might have pushed some to buy planes from Airbus instead. (Prosecutors said they lacked evidence to argue that Boeings deception had played a role in the crashes.) But the plea deal was rejected this month by a federal judge in Texas, Reed OConnor, who decided that diversity, inclusion and equity or DEI policies in the government and at Boeing could result in race being a factor in choosing an official to oversee Boeings compliance with the agreement. Boeing has sought to change its culture. Under intense pressure over safety issues, David Calhoun departed as CEO in August. Since January, 70,000 Boeing employees have participated in meetings to discuss ways to improve safety. (AP) Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Master the Elements of Success: Enroll in MSc Chemistry at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) PNN Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], December 31: Chemistry, the central science, holds the key to unlocking numerous mysteries of the natural world. For those passionate about diving deep into this fascinating discipline, the Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc Chemistry) at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Bangalore, offers an unparalleled platform. Recognized as one of the best MSc Chemistry colleges in India, the program is designed to empower students with theoretical knowledge, practical expertise, and research aptitude. Also Read | Happy and Prosperous New Year 2025 Images and HD Wallpapers For Free Download Online: Share Heartfelt HNY Wishes, Thoughtful Quotes and GIFs To Celebrate New Beginnings. Why Choose MSc Chemistry at JAIN? JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) stands out among MSc Chemistry colleges in Bangalore, offering an industry-centric curriculum meticulously crafted to meet modern scientific challenges. Students gain in-depth knowledge of chemical properties, molecular structures, and energy storage, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. With a robust MSc Chemistry syllabus tailored to industry needs, students receive comprehensive training through well-structured lectures, lab sessions, and interactive tutorials. Also Read | WhatsApp Pay Allowed To Extend UPI Services to All Users As NPCI Removes Onboarding Limit With Immediate Effect. The program is particularly beneficial for those aiming to specialize in organic chemistry, as JAIN is hailed as one of the best MSc Organic Chemistry colleges in Bangalore. Students benefit from guidance by experienced faculty, cutting-edge laboratory facilities, and proximity to Bangalore's thriving pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Program Highlights * Comprehensive Learning: The program emphasizes understanding the principles behind various chemical reactions and processes, with a focus on plants, animals, and humans. * Specialized Knowledge: Students gain expertise in advancing areas like bioenergetics, enzymology, and molecular biology. * Research Orientation: Regular exposure to research projects enhances students' learning experiences and prepares them for a promising career after MSc Chemistry. * Expert Faculty: Highly qualified professors bring professional and research expertise into their teaching. Dr. Dinesh Nilkant, Director of Admissions at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), shares, "Our MSc Chemistry program is more than just a degree; it's a gateway to innovation and discovery. By equipping students with the tools to excel in research and industry, we are shaping the next generation of scientific leaders." Career Enhancement Programs JAIN's commitment to employability is evident through its career enhancement initiatives. The program includes soft skills training in communication, presentation, critical thinking, and leadership. Students also receive guidance in interview techniques, ensuring they are well-prepared for the competitive job market. Mackey Agarwal, Head of Admissions & Marketing at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), states, "Our focus is on holistic development. Beyond theoretical knowledge, we nurture the skills and confidence required to excel in diverse career paths, making JAIN one of the best colleges for MSc in Chemistry." Diverse Career Outcomes An MSc Chemistry degree from JAIN opens doors to an array of career opportunities. Graduates find roles in research and development, pharmaceuticals, quality control, and academia. Those specializing in organic chemistry gain an added advantage, with JAIN being recognized as one of the best MSc Organic Chemistry colleges in Bangalore. Career options after MSc Chemistry include: * Research Scientist: Conduct groundbreaking experiments in laboratories.* Quality Control Analyst: Ensure product quality in industries such as pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals.* Academic Roles: Teach and inspire the next generation of chemists.* Industry Specialist: Work in the development of perfumes, fertilizers, and other chemical products. Saurabh Kumar, Chief Manager, Admissions & Marketing at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), highlights, "With a curriculum aligned to industry standards and a focus on experiential learning, our graduates are highly sought after. This is why we are consistently ranked among the top MSc Chemistry colleges in India." Why JAIN Stands Out * Location Advantage: Situated in Bangalore, JAIN offers students proximity to leading biotech and pharmaceutical companies, enabling excellent internship and placement opportunities.* Comprehensive Curriculum: The MSc Chemistry syllabus balances theoretical concepts with practical applications, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the subject.* Specialized Focus: The program caters to niche interests, making it the best University for MSc Chemistry in India for students aiming to excel in both academics and research. Eligibility To apply for the MSc Chemistry program, candidates must meet the following MSc Chemistry eligibility criteria: * A minimum of 50% marks in the respective bachelor's degree from a recognized university.* Final-year bachelor's students are also eligible to apply.Start Your Journey Today Choosing JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) for your MSc in Chemistry is not just about earning a degree--it's about building a fulfilling career. With its excellent infrastructure, experienced faculty, and industry connections, JAIN remains a top choice among MSc Chemistry colleges in Bangalore and India. Embark on your journey to success with JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), the best university for MSc Chemistry in India. Explore limitless opportunities and redefine your future. Contact Information * Website: www.jainuniversity.ac.in* Email: enquiry.pg@jainuniversity.ac.in (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Dehradun, Dec 31 (PTI) It would not be wrong if one were to describe 2024 as Uttarakhand's most significant year in its sociopolitical history since the state was formed in 2000. This year, the state became the first in the country to pass a law to implement the Uniform Civil Code, a topic that has generated impassioned debates, divided opinions and sparked tensions. It promises to continue to shape India's political discourse in the foreseeable future. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Corporate Giants to World Leaders, How the World Applauded India Under PM Narendra Modi in 2024. While the UCC remained at the front and centre of the BJP government's political and legislative agenda, it also brought a law to deter potential rioters by bringing a provision that the government would recover from them any damage caused to public property during any trouble. What prompted the The Uttarakhand Public and Private Property Damage Recovery Act was a communal conflagration in the Muslim-dominated Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani on February 8, just a day after the UCC bill was passed by the assembly. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: 138.34 Crore Aadhar Numbers, 67 Million Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts Generated This Year, Says MeitY. The riot that broke out over the demolition of an illegal madrassa and a small structure built within its premises to offer namaz claimed six lives and injured a number of people including about 100 police personnel on duty. In June 2024, nine Indian mountaineers died when a blizzard struck their location as they were trekking in the remote Himalayas. A disaster struck Kedarghati the next month, as heavy rain triggered a series of landslides along the Kedarnath trek route when the Chardham Yatra in the night of July 31 when the pilgrimage was at its peak. Seventeen people were dead and 25 injured. Lakhs of pilgrims were stranded, some in the middle nowhere. The yatra was suspended and a massive rescue operation was launched. The yatra to the Himalayan temple through the trek route this year ran for 50 fewer days compared to other years. November proved to be particularly fatal in terms of road accidents as the state witnessed 45 deaths in two incidents. A bus jam-packed with people returning to work after Diwali fell into a deep gorge in Almora district on November 4, killing 36 of the about 60 people on board. A week later, an after-party ride turned deadly for a group of youngsters in Dehradun when their Innova car collided with a container truck killing six of them. Also, more than 240 pilgrims died this year due to health-related issues during the Chardham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, with the fatality rate being the highest among devotees visiting the Himalayan temples by helicopter. Uniform Civil Code has been on the BJP agenda nationally for many years. But the party's government in Uttarakhand became the first to take a concrete step towards implementing it just before the Lok Sabha elections in May-June. An expert committee, formed by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and headed by retired Supreme Court Judge Ranjana Prakash Desai, submitted a comprehensive draft in four volumes to the state government in February. Acting on the draft, the state government presented the Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code Bill in the assembly a few days later and it was passed on February 7. The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Act received President Droupadi Murmu's approval on March 11, making the hill state the first State in independent India to have a UCC Act. The state government has formed a nine-member panel, chaired by former chief secretary Shatrughna Singh, to lay down the rules for the implementation. The panel has submitted its final report, and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said the UCC is likely to be implemented in January. The UCC seeks to establish a uniform and equal set of rules on marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance for all citizens in the state, except the scheduled tribes, irrespective of religion. It makes registration of all marriages and live-in relationships mandatory. Several BJP-ruled states including Assam have already expressed desire to adopt Uttarakhand's UCC as a model. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently said in Parliament every state with a BJP government would bring in the UCC the way it was done in Uttarakhand. Introducing a UCC was a major pre-poll promise made by Dhami before the 2022 assembly polls, which the BJP won to storm to power in the state for a second consecutive term, a feat achieved by no party in the state since it was formed in 2000. The BJP also performed well in the state in the Lok Sabha polls this year retaining for the three consecutive term all five seats, including parliamentary poll debutantes former chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat (Haridwar) and the BJP's national media incharge Anil Baluni (Pauri Garhwal). Assembly bypolls were held to three seats in the state during the year including Manglaur, Badrinath and Kedarnath. The Congress wrested Manglaur from the BSP, retained Badrinath while the BJP retained Kedarnath. In Uttarkashi, right wing Hindu groups protested in October against a decades-old mosque, saying it was illegal. They held a "Jan Aakrosh" rally in the town and clashed with the police when the route of the rally was diverted, leaving around two dozen people injured. The situation was brought under control by issuing prohibitory orders in the district and reinforcing deployment of police personnel around the mosque. Uncertainty surrounds the legality of the mosque with contrary claims made by the two sides and the matter pending in the Uttarakhand High Court. Communal tension also gripped the Nandprayag town of Chamoli district in September over a barber making obscene gestures to a minor girl. Locals protested in the market, vandalising shops belonging to people of the minority community. However, the situation was soon brought under control with the arrest of the accused from Uttar Pradesh Dhami's participation in the foundation laying ceremony of a replica of Kedarnath in Delhi sparked a controversy with priests of the temple rising in revolt. The protest pushed Dhami on the backfoot and he convinced the trust building the replica of the famous temple to drop the plan. The state cabinet also cleared introduction of a law banning the misuse of the names of the revered Himalayan shrines of Uttarakhand including Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri for any other temples or trusts. Opposition Congress' plans to blow up the issue politically also came a cropper with the disruption of the trek route to Kedarnath as PCC president Karan Mahara's Kedarnath Samman Bachao yatra had to be stopped two days ahead of its conclusion on the instructions of Rahul Gandhi. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Dec 31 (PTI) A Delhi court has acquitted two men in a 2022 attempt to murder case after finding gaps in the victim's testimony. Additional sessions judge Vipin Kharb said the testimonies -- in the category of neither wholly reliable nor wholly unreliable -- required corroboration on material aspects. Also Read | Japanese Encephalitis Outbreak in Australia: Health Alert Issued Over Deadly Mosquito-Borne Virus in Victoria. The court was hearing a case against Afshan and Faisal, who were accused of stabbing Mohammad Yawar on October 28, 2022. In its verdict dated December 22, the court said there was no legal impediment in convicting a person on the sole testimony of the complainant or the victim but given the doubts in Yawar's statements, it had to insist on corroboration. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: 138.34 Crore Aadhaar Numbers Generated, 67 Million Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts Created. "Generally speaking, oral testimony in this context may be classified into three categories, namely, wholly reliable, wholly unreliable and neither wholly reliable nor wholly unreliable," the order said. The court said it had to be cautious in the third category and look for corroboration in material particulars through reliable testimony, direct or circumstantial. According to the victim, he had gone home after being stabbed and assaulted, which was about 2 kilometer from the scene of crime. "He was conscious and fit enough to reach his house at a distance of 1-2 km without anybody's assistance but he did not go to any hospital for treatment, or make any call to the police or to his family, which an ordinary prudent person in such a situation would have done. Further, he admitted he did not tell anything about the incident to the PCR police officials," the court observed. The victim's testimony was found inconsistent, particularly on the number of assailants, motive behind the offence and his conduct after the incident. "So the testimony of prosecution witness 1 (Yawar) falls in the third category, i.e, it is neither wholly reliable nor wholly unreliable and therefore, corroboration in material particulars is required. No other evidence is brought on the record by the prosecution to corroborate his testimony," the court said. The court said the second eye witness in the case turned hostile and did not support the prosecution's theory over the identification of the accused persons. "The court has no hesitation to conclude that there are many contradictions in the testimony of injured Yawar and same is not consistent and its veracity is shakentherefore, same cannot be relied upon being inconsistent and uncorroborated," the verdict held. Both men were acquitted on account of the prosecution failing to prove the charges against them beyond a reasonable doubt. The Jamia Nagar police station registered an FIR against the duo under Sections 307 (attempt to murder) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Dec 31 (PTI) Delhi Police has made elaborated traffic arrangements and restrictions across the national capital, especially at Connaught Place, and deployed nearly 20,000 police and paramilitary personnel in the city on the eve of New Year celebration to maintain law and order, officials said on Tuesday. A senior police official said that 50 teams, equipped with alcometers, will be stationed at key locations to monitor and prosecute any instances of drunk driving. The picket staff will also have alcometers for further check. Also Read | Arvind Kejriwal a 'Chunavi' Hindu: Delhi BJP on His 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana' Ahead of Assembly Elections 2025 (See Pic). According to the police, the traffic personnel will also be present in significant numbers throughout the city, focusing on popular celebration hotspots like Connaught Place, Hauz Khas and India Gate. The traffic restrictions will be imposed near Connaught Place after 8 pm. The police have distributed stickers for the vehicles entering Connaught Place after 8 pm. Ten spots have been identified at the Connaught Place where people can't go with their vehicles, the officer said. Also Read | Bank Holiday: Will Banks Remain Open or Closed on January 1, 2025? Know if Bank Branches Will Operate on First Day of New Year. Additionally, staff will be deployed at 14 points at the India Gate where restrictions will be imposed to prevent overcrowding in the area. Nearly 20,000 police personnel, including traffic police and paramilitary personnel, will be on the ground to check hooliganism and traffic violations, police said. "We have prepared a comprehensive arrangement to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors during the upcoming new year's eve celebrations," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), New Delhi, Devesh Kumar Mahla. The DCP said that large crowds are expected to gather in various clubs, hotels, restaurants, pubs, malls, eating houses and parks, adding special arrangements will be made for Connaught Place/Connaught Circus, Khan Market, five-star hotels, including The Lalit, Imperial, Park, Royal Plaza, Shangri-La, Le Meridien, Taj Mahal, Taj Vivanta, Metropolitan, Claridges, Ashoka, Samrat, ITC Maurya, and Taj Palace, India Gate, 'C' Hexagon and Kartavya Path, temples and gurudwaras. He further said the arrangement is divided into two zones, with overall supervision by the DCP, New Delhi. "Zone-A will be supervised by additional DCP-I at places like the Parliament Street and Connaught Place and Zone-B will be supervised by Additional DCP-II at places like Chanakya Puri, Barakhamba Road and Tughlak Road. There will be four ACPs, 23 inspectors, 648 police staff, 100 home guards, 11 companies of Central Armed Police Force -- 10 companies of men and one company of women will be deployed," he added. The police said that two ambulance vans, two fire tenders, two jail vans, two teams of bomb disposal squad, 28 door frame metal detectors, two teams of SWAT, three teams of Prakram vehicles, 33 MPVs, 30 motorcycle-patrolling teams, 43 foot-patrolling teams, 29 border pickets, 30 vehicle-checking parties at parking lots, seven plain-cloth spotters and five arrest parties will be deployed. According to the police, the buses headed towards Connaught Place will be diverted, starting from 7 pm on December 31, and the exit gates of Rajiv Chowk Metro Station will be closed after 9 pm on December 31 to prevent overcrowding. Two doctors will be deployed in the area to conduct medical examinations of people driving under the influence of alcohol. An Excise inspector will be deployed for checking violations of Excise laws and prohibition regulations. Meanwhile, DCP, Southwest, Surendra Choudhary, said the South West district police have implemented comprehensive security arrangements to ensure public safety and peaceful celebrations. He said that traffic checking points with breath analysers and 27 designated checkpoints with barricades have been established to regulate vehicular movement and 14 Quick Reaction Teams have been stationed at strategic locations. The DCP said the police have secured 35 key celebration venues for special security coverage, adding teams will monitor important spots like 15 malls, motels, cinema halls and other popular places. In east Delhi, a total of 41 high-visibility pickets have been set up across key locations. Additional 19 pickets dedicated to preventing drunken driving, the police said. The key areas such as Preet Vihar, Laxmi Nagar, Mayur Vihar and other vital zones have been given special attention, with enhanced patrolling on seven sensitive routes and roads, including Vikas Marg, NH-24 and Pushta Road, said DCP, East, Abhishek Dhania. The DCP further said that 21 popular public spaces like restaurants, bars, clubs, malls and markets will be closely monitored to maintain law and order. A total of 32 motorcycles will be utilised for patrolling. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], December 31 (ANI): The Supreme Court granted time to the Punjab government for compliance with its December 20 order to provide medical aid and shift to hospital farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on a fast-unto-death since November 26. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Sudhanshu Dhulia listed the matter for further hearing on January 2 after Advocate General Gurminder Singh, appearing for the Punjab government, sought more time for compliance with the order. Also Read | Mysuru: Leopard Spotted at Infosys Campus in Karnataka , Techies Asked To Work From Home. Singh said, "An application has been moved seeking three more days for compliance with the court's December 20 order for providing medical aid and shifting Dallewal to the hospital." Advocate General further said that efforts for compliance were made by mobilising about 7000 personnel at the protest site at the Khanauri border; however, due to the Punjab Bandh held yesterday by farmers' organisations, there were traffic blockades and hindrances. Also Read | Demat Accounts Surged in India but Penetration Still Low at 12% Compared to 62% in US, Says Report by Motilal Oswal. Singh apprised the bench about the protesters' proposal that Dallewal would take medical aid if the Centre was ready to talk to them. "As per the negotiators, there is a proposal given by the farmers to the central government that if they get an invite for a talk, then Dallewal is ready to take medical aid as desired," the advocate general said. The bench then posted the contempt petition filed against the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Punjab to January 2, 2025, for further hearing. The apex court said the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab would present virtually on the next hearing date. Dallewal, the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanouri border to press the Centre to accept the farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The top court has been asking the Punjab government to ensure Dallewal gets proper medical aid during fast unto death.(ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], December 31 (ANI): The Gujarat Government, under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has resolved 83 per cent of grievances submitted through the Visitor Management System, a platform introduced in January 2023 to ensure transparent and effective redressal of citizens' concerns. According to the official statement, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat Government continues to work tirelessly to serve its citizens. The government ensures that people can raise their concerns and grievances through multiple channels, reaching the highest levels if necessary. Also Read | WHO Still Waiting on COVID Origins Data from China. Demonstrating a model of good governance through citizen empowerment, CM Bhupendra Patel introduced the Visitor Management System to personally address citizens' issues, achieving a resolution rate of 83 per cent for grievances to date, the statement added. Further, the statement said, the Visitor Management System, launched on January 9, 2023, enables citizens to meet the Chief Minister in person and facilitates effective and transparent grievance redressal. The Chief Minister dedicates the first two days of the week--Monday and Tuesday--to meeting applicants. Visitors are required to register on the Visitor Management System portal, after which their requests are categorised into "Complaints" and "Greetings." Also Read | Karnataka: NIA Court Sentences Bangladeshi Man to 7 Years in Jail for Radicalising Muslim Youths, Raising Funds for Terror Activities. Citizens in the "Greetings" category are issued passes to meet the Chief Minister directly. Complaints in the "Complaints" category are reviewed in detail by officials at the Chief Minister's Office, who prepare a brief note on the matter. Subsequently, a pass is issued, and the case is referred to the Chief Minister for further action, the statement said. After understanding the grievance, the Chief Minister provides direct instructions to the concerned authorities for prompt resolution, followed by continuous follow-up and monitoring. To ensure sensitivity and effectiveness, the program incorporates an Auto Escalation Metrics system, enabling timely and qualitative grievance resolution within defined timeframes, the release mentioned. Additionally, the statement noted that since its inception in 2023, a total of 4,793 citizens have met the Chief Minister under the Visitor Management System. Among these, 3,103 citizens belonged to the "Complaint/Grievance" category, while 1,690 were in the "Greetings" category. Notably, 83 per cent of the grievances raised by the 4,793 applicants have been resolved successfully. Under the Visitor Management System, complaints are categorised into three channels--Green, Yellow, and Red--based on their severity and complexity. Depending on the nature of the grievance, entries are made in the CM Desk, public grievance, or Taluka/District-level forums to ensure swift resolution. Further, according to the statement, the MP-MLA Unit at the Chief Minister's Office plays a vital role in systematically addressing administrative grievances. This unit handles representations and complaints related to governance from Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel directly supervises the cell's operations. During the current 15th Legislative Assembly, MPs and MLAs submitted approximately 14,500 representations, of which 93 were successfully resolved. The establishment of the MP-MLA Unit has enhanced communication between public representatives and administrative bodies, expediting developmental projects and improving governance, the release stated. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Dec 31 (PTI) Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Tuesday amid persistent foreign fund outflows, and weak trends in the global markets. Selling in IT stocks also dampened investor sentiments. Also Read | New Year 2025 Celebrations: Mumbai-Goa Highway Faces Traffic Congestion Due to Extra Rush of Vehicles Ahead of New Year. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex tanked 468.14 points to 77,779.99 in initial trade. The NSE Nifty dropped 117.05 points to 23,527.85. From the 30 blue-chip pack, Tech Mahindra, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, HCL Technologies, Zomato, IndusInd Bank, Bajaj Finance and ICICI Bank were the major laggards. Also Read | Animal Cruelty in Mumbai: Father-Son Duo Shoot Stray Dog Wolfy With Air Gun in Lokhandwala for Barking Continuously, Detained by Police. Kotak Mahindra Bank, State Bank of India, Tata Motors and Tata Steel were among the gainers. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 1,893.16 crore on Monday, according to exchange data. In Asian markets, Seoul and Shanghai were trading lower while Hong Kong quoted in the positive territory. US markets ended lower on Monday. Global oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.30 per cent to USD 74.39 a barrel. The 30-share BSE benchmark tumbled 450.94 points or 0.57 per cent to settle at 78,248.13 on Monday. The Nifty declined 168.50 points or 0.71 per cent to 23,644.90. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], December 31 (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday conducted searches at three locations in the Chatra district of Jharkhand in connection with a CPI (Maoist) splinter group conspiracy case. During the searches, several mobile phones, SIM cards etc. were seized. Also Read | Stocks To Buy or Sell Today, December 31: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, ITC and EaseMyTrip Among Shares That May Remain in Focus on Thursday, Know Which Stocks to Buy or Sell on December 31. The searches conducted today were part of NIA's investigation in a case of extortion, levy collection and money laundering by members of TSPC, a splinter group of the proscribed CPI (Maoist) terror organisation. The searches were conducted at the premises of suspects and overground workers (OGWs) associated with top cadres of TSPC. Also Read | Venezuela Fines TikTok over Deadly Viral Challenges. The case was originally registered by the Tandwa police in January 2016 and the investigation was taken over by NIA in February 2018. NIA has so far charge sheeted 21 accused persons in the case, in which investigations are continuing. Earlier on Friday, NIA searched multiple locations in Jharkhand's Giridih in a CPI (Maoist) related case, the agency said in a statement. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, December 31: More than 14,000 police personnel have been deployed in Mumbai as part of elaborate security arrangements to maintain law and order on New Year's eve, officials said on Tuesday. Large gatherings are expected at prominent places in the city, including Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Girgaon Chowpatty, Bandra Bandstand, Juhu and Versova beaches. New Year 2025 Celebrations: Mumbai-Goa Highway Faces Traffic Congestion Due to Extra Rush of Vehicles Ahead of New Year. Also, celebrations at various hotels, restaurants and malls are likely to continue till the wee hours of Wednesday. Hence, police have made arrangements for a strict vigil to avoid any untoward incident in the city, an official said. More than 12,000 police constables, 2,184 officers, 53 assistant commissioners, 29 deputy commissioners and eight additional commissioner-rank officers have been deployed as part of the security arrangements, he said. Police personnel in plain clothes will keep an eye at crowded places to avoid any untoward incident, he said. The New Year celebrations at many places will also be monitored through CCTVs, the official said. New Year 2025: Delhi Police Implement Security Measures To Maintain Law and Order Ahead of New Year Celebrations. Platoons of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), Quick Response Team (QRT), Bomb Detection and Disposal Squads, Riot Control police and Homeguards will also be deployed for the security, he said. Nakabandi (police checkposts) will also be set up on all the important roads and patrolling on streets will be intensified, the official said. The police's traffic branch will also conduct a special campaign to check drunk driving, he said. Strict action will be taken against those involved in eve-teasing or harassing women and illicit liquor sale, he added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Imphal/ Churachandpur, Dec 31 (PTI) A mob led by Kuki-Zo women clashed with security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Tuesday, triggering fresh tensions in the ethnic strife-hit state. The incident happened at Uyokching near Thamnapokpi after the mob tried to "disrupt" the deployment of a combined team of Army, BSF and CRPF, police said in a post on X. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: India Advances in Infrastructure, AI, Quantum, Blockchain, Digital Innovation, Hyperloop Train Test Track and More. The joint forces "dispersed" the crowd with "minimum use of force" and now the situation is "peaceful and under control", they said. The security forces were deployed at the hilltop to "dominate the area and prevent any untoward incident in the area", they added. Also Read | Farrukhabad Shocker: 5 Cops Conspire With Locals To Plant Pistol and Frame Man in Fake Arms Case in Uttar Pradesh, Booked. Locals claimed that several people were injured in the action by the security forces that happened in Saibol village in Twiching, which is located in the so-called 'buffer zone' between the Kuki-held Hills and Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley. They said that the local women had gathered to protest what they described as the "forceful occupation" of community bunkers by security personnel. A Kuki leader alleged that the situation escalated when the forces used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. "It was like a battlefield," said one protester, adding, "We came to voice our concerns, not to face war tactics." Following the incident, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) blocked the National Highway 2, a critical road connecting the region to the rest of the country, for an indefinite period, demanding the withdrawal of central forces. "Our people have suffered enough. The use of excessive force on unarmed women is unacceptable," a CoTU spokesperson said. Blocking the NH-2 would disrupt the supply of commodities to the Metei areas in Imphal Valley. The Women's Wing of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) claimed that many women were injured in the use of force by the security personnel. "This incident is particularly disturbing as it occurs during the Christmas-New Year period, a time when people come together to celebrate peace, love, and joy. Instead, the CAPF's actions have brought fear, trauma, and suffering to the community. Since it wounded the sentiments of the Kuki-Zo community, the Saibul-Twichin incident would be closely monitored by the Kuki-Zo community worldwide," it added. There was, however, no confirmation from the government on the number of people injured. The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) alleged that the security forces targeted Kuki women who were peacefully protesting against the "increasing violence activities perpetrated by adversary community and insecurity caused by these forces". "It is deeply troubling that these central security forces, entrusted with maintaining peace and order, have instead engaged in actions that exacerbate the suffering of the Kuki-Zo community," it alleged. "The KWOHR condemns in the strongest possible terms the actions of the CAPF personnel in this incident, particularly the physical assault and molestation on Kuki women, including the tearing of their clothing and the use of excessive force in the form of lathi charges and firing of tear gas on unarmed innocent Kuki women," it said. The Kuki Women's Union claimed the actions by the security forces not only undermined the principles of democracy and justice but also exacerbated the existing trust deficit between the central authorities and the Kuki community. "At last, if the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) is incapable of manning the Buffer Zones and preventing Meiteis from attacking us, even after more than 19 long months, they should abandon the Buffer Zones so that our volunteers can take necessary steps to protect us," it said. More than 250 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence in Manipur since May last year. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], December 31 (ANI): State Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dr Vijay Kumar Jogdande on Tuesday held a meeting with the officers of Dehradun district regarding the preparations for National Voter's Day at the Secretariat. On this occasion, he directed the District Administration and Public Works Department to conduct a site inspection at the venue and submit a report. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Kishan Negi, City Magistrate Pratyush Singh, Assistant Engineer Vinesh Verma, and other personnel from the Election Department. Also Read | Nimisha Priya Death Row: Mother of Kerala Nurse Sentenced to Death in Yemen Makes Emotional Plea for Help. According to a government release, since 2011, the National Voters' Day (NVD) has been celebrated on January 25 every year to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), which was established on this day in the year 1950. The main purpose of the NVD celebration is to encourage, facilitate, and maximise voter enrolment, especially for new voters. Dedicated to the country's voters, the Day is celebrated to spread awareness among them to promote informed participation in the electoral process.NVD is celebrated at the national, state, district, constituency, and polling booth levels, which makes it one of the largest celebrations in the country. On January 25, 2025, the Election Commission of India will celebrate its 15th National Voters' Day (NVD) celebration. (ANI) Also Read | Year Ender 2024: 138.34 Crore Aadhaar Numbers Generated, 67 Million Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts Created. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, Dec 31 (PTI) Shares of Adani Wilmar tumbled nearly 8 per cent on Tuesday after billionaire Gautam Adani's group announced its exit from the FMCG joint venture by selling its entire stake to the Singaporean partner in the open market for over USD 2 billion. The stock tanked 7.95 per cent to Rs 303.30 on the BSE. Also Read | Bank Holiday: Will Banks Remain Open or Closed on January 1, 2025? Know if Bank Branches Will Operate on First Day of New Year. At the NSE, it tumbled 7.80 per cent to Rs 303.10. In a statement on Monday, Adani Enterprises Ltd -- which held 43.94 per cent stake in Fortune brand cooking oil, wheat flour and other food product maker Adani Wilmar Ltd -- said it will sell 31.06 per cent stake to Wilmar International. The remaining about 13 per cent holding will be sold in the open market to meet minimum public shareholding requirements. Also Read | Kolkata Fatafat Result Today: Kolkata FF Result for December 31, 2024 Declared, Check Winning Numbers and Result Chart of Satta Matka-Type Lottery Game. Adani will sell up to 40.37 crore shares (31.06 per cent stake) to Wilmar at no more than Rs 305 apiece to net Rs 12,314 crore. Adding the share sale through OFS, whose price will be determined on the day of sales, the total proceeds will exceed USD 2 billion (about Rs 17,100 crore). "With this, AEL (Adani Enterprises Limited) will fully exit Adani Wilmar Ltd," it said. "Adani's nominee directors will step down from the board of Adani Wilmar Ltd." Pranav V Adani, director of AEL and nephew of group founder and chairman Gautam Adani, and Malay Mahadevia will resign from the board upon execution of the agreement. The transaction is expected to conclude before March 31, 2025. Proceeds from the stake sale will be used to turbocharge the growth of AEL in core infrastructure businesses. Adani Wilmar is an equal joint venture between Adani Enterprises and Wilmar Group, both holding 43.94 per cent stake each as of September 30, 2024. The firm got listed on stock exchanges in February 2022 after raising Rs 3,600 crore through an initial share sale. Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL) was established in January 1999 as a joint venture. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Shimla, Dec 31 (PTI) Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday launched the 'Har Din Sehat' campaign with the aim to promote a culture of health consciousness among the people of Himachal Pradesh. Under this campaign, students of IGMC Shimla and Sister Nivedita Nursing College will organise health talks at various locations to raise awareness about adopting a healthy lifestyle. These activities will be conducted in different wards and OPDs of IGMC Shimla as well as public places under the Shimla Municipal Corporation. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Launch of SpaDeX Mission to Successful Tests of Reusable Launch Vehicle 'Pushpak', Check List of ISRO Accomplishments This Year. Sukhu emphasised that the campaign's objectives include preventing diseases, increasing awareness about government health facilities and encouraging effective utilization of government health services and schemes. He further stated that this initiative is envisioned as a long-term effort to make health awareness a part of daily life and to transform Himachal Pradesh into a healthier and more conscious society. Also Read | Bank Holiday: Will Banks Remain Open or Closed on January 1, 2025? Know if Bank Branches Will Operate on First Day of New Year. "The campaign is a significant step toward improving public health in the state through a sustainable and inclusive approach," Sukhu said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Hyderabad, Dec 31 (PTI) The Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested 223 people in connection with a total of 152 cases registered by it during 2024. Of the 152 cases, 129 were trap cases involving arrest of 200 accused (159 government servants); 11 Disproportionate Assets cases against government servants, and 12 other cases of criminal misconduct in which 18 accused were arrested, Telangana Director General of ACB Vijay Kumar said on Tuesday. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Launch of SpaDeX Mission to Successful Tests of Reusable Launch Vehicle 'Pushpak', Check List of ISRO Accomplishments This Year. In the 129 trap cases, the ACB seized a total of Rs 82.78 lakh of which Rs 64.80 lakh was reimbursed to the complainants, Kumar said. Besides, properties of accused in disproportionate assets, worth Rs 97,42,67,000 was attached in 11 cases. Also Read | Bank Holiday: Will Banks Remain Open or Closed on January 1, 2025? Know if Bank Branches Will Operate on First Day of New Year. He said the ACB conducted 11 regular enquiries into allegation of corruption. Also, 29 surprise checks were conducted on various offices and reports were submitted to government. The ACB in Telangana obtained 105 sanction for prosecution orders from government and filed charge sheet. The Bureau closely monitored prosecution of cases in court, and secured conviction in 16 cases, achieving a conviction rate of 64 per cent, he said. The top ACB official further said during 2024, special emphasis was laid on training ACB personnel. Training was imparted on improving drafting skills, investigation into tracing financial transactions, digital footprints of financial transaction, legal position in trap and DA cases, arrests, bail, anticipatory bail, quash of cases etc, including landmark judgements of Supreme Court and High Courts, having impact on investigation into cases involving corruption by government servants, he added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Shaljhandi [Nepal], December 31 (ANI): The 18th India-Nepal combined battalion level military training Exercise, Surya Kiran, commenced at Saljhandi in Nepal on Tuesday and will continue till January 13, an official statement said. During the exercise, an Infantry Battalion each from the Indian Army and the Nepali Army will be training together to develop inter-operability and share their experience of unorthodox modes of warfare including Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorist operations and also on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. Also Read | New Year 2025: From Sydney to Vladivostok, World Begins Welcoming 2025 With Light Shows, Embraces and Ice Plunges. A traditional opening ceremony was organsied to mark the commencement of the exercise in which both contingents marched in harmony to the Indian and Nepali military tunes, as per the statement. In a post on X, the Indian Army said, "The opening ceremony of 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, was held today at the Nepal Army Battle School, Shaljhandi, Nepal. The exercise is scheduled from 31 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. The objective of the exercise is to strengthen interoperability between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army in conducting Joint Operations under the UN Mandate. Two Nations, One Vision for Security." Also Read | No One Can Ever Stop Taiwans Reunification with China, Says President Xi Jinping in His New Year 2025 Message. https://x.com/adgpi/status/1874042867431186699 Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung, General Officer Commanding Mid-West Division, Nepal Army addressed the gathering and exhorted the contingents to gain from each other's rich experience, enmesh the interoperability while simultaneously strengthening the brotherhood existing among the two nations, as per the statement. The Indian Army contingent had reached Saljhandi on December 29 where they were accorded a traditional military reception. Around 700 defence personnel from both the Armies are participating in the event. Exercise Surya Kiran showcases the strong bonds of friendship, trust and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. It also gives a platform for a productive and fruitful engagement between the armies of India and Nepal. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountains and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under United Nations Charter, according to the statement released by the Indian Army. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kabul [Afghanistan], December 31 (ANI): Taliban has announced it will close all national and foreign nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) employing women in Afghanistan. In a letter shared on X, Taliban-led Ministry of Economy warned that failure to comply with the order would result in NGOs losing their licence to function in Afghanistan, Al Jazeera reported. The Taliban announced the latest decision two years after they asked NGOs to suspend the employment of Afghan women, allegedly as they did not follow Taliban's interpretation of the Islamic dress code for women. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Dr Manmohan Singh to Ratan Tata and Maggie Smith, List of Famous People Who Passed Away This Year. The Taliban-led Economy Ministry said that it was responsible for the registration, coordination, leadership and supervision of all activities conducted by national and foreign organisations. The Taliban has once again ordered the women to stop working in institutions not controlled by Taliban, according to the letter. It said, "In case of lack of cooperation, all activities of that institution will be cancelled and the activity licence of that institution, granted by the ministry, will also be cancelled." Also Read | India Achievements in 2024: India Emerges As Global Leader in Space, Nuclear Energy, AI, Infrastructure, Biotech, Pharma, Blockchain and Other Sectors. Restrictions have been imposed on Afghan women since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, prompting the United Nations to denounce the "gender apartheid" the authorities have established, according to Al Jazeera report. Taliban has banned girls from studying beyond sixth class, restricted employment and blocked access to parks and other public places. While announcing the decision, Taliban had said that the ban was a "temporary suspension" that would be resolved after creating a safe environment for girls to attend school. However, no change in decision has been announced yet. Earlier this month, the UN Security Council was informed about that the rising number of female Afghan humanitarian workers being stopped from carrying out their duties, despite the critical need for relief work, Al Jazeera reported. A senior UN offiical, Tom Fletcher, said that there was a rise in the number of humanitarian organisations that have had female or male staff blocked by Taliban, according to Al Jazeera report. The group has denied hindering work of aid agencies or interfering with their operations and defends its decisions necessary to uphold Afghanistan's law, social norms and public safety. Taliban has also denied imposing ban on women's activities and said that nearly 9,000 work permits have been issued to women since the group has seized power and claimed that many women were part of the Afghan workforce. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) London [UK] December 31, (ANI): The British police in Manchester were called to the Chinese Consulate over the weekend after an altercation between the staff and a Radio Free Asia (RFA) journalist, who filmed them removing Hong Kong protest graffiti from the street outside. On Saturday afternoon, four Chinese Consulate staff members encircled RFA Cantonese Service reporter Matthew Leung after he began taking photos of them erasing slogans painted in white on the sidewalk outside the Chinese consulate on Denison Road in Manchester. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Corporate Giants to World Leaders, How the World Applauded India Under PM Narendra Modi in 2024. The slogans included "F--- PRC!" (People's Republic of China), "Independence for Hong Kong!" and "Long Live the Republic of China!"--the official name for democratic Taiwan, as shown in photos shared on Telegram on the afternoon of December 28. Additionally, there was a derogatory term for China, a highly offensive historical slur previously used in protest slogans by Hong Kongers, Radio Free Asia reported. A Telegram user explained they had painted the slogans "because they are communists." The staff quickly began scrubbing the graffiti, but when RFA reporters arrived and started taking photos, they were threatened. One staff member warned the reporter, saying, "We know your name, we know your address," and added, "I know our rights - if you take photos of us, we have image rights." Also Read | New Zealand Enters New Year 2025: Auckland Among First Major Cities in the World To Usher In New Year 2025 As Thousands Enjoyed Dazzling Fireworks Display at Sky Tower (Watch Video). One staff member stated, "We don't want any photos or videos online. If you publish them, we will contact the police." The Chinese Consulate in Manchester gained attention in 2022 when Consul General Zheng Xiyuan physically assaulted a Hong Kong protester inside the consulate. According to the report, concerns are increasing over the Chinese Communist Party's growing influence in various aspects of British life, with warnings from Hong Kong exiles about the rising violence from Beijing's supporters and officials. Activists abroad often report being targeted by agents and backers of the Chinese government, including through secret Chinese police stations set up in several countries. One staff member, speaking in accented Cantonese, said, "Stop filming; we're calling the police now," while another repeated the request in English, according to the Radio Free Asia report. Another staff member attempted to access the camera's digital touchscreen, despite the RFA journalist verbally objecting, but was eventually pulled away by colleagues. The staff also insisted that the journalist identify themselves, which the reporter did, presenting their official press accreditation from the National Union of Journalists. One of the men said, "This is the Consulate General." In response, the reporter said that he was standing on a public footpath. The man then insisted, "If you want to film, you need our permission," citing "diplomatic privileges under the Vienna Convention." When the police arrived, called by both the RFA reporter and consulate staff, they took a bag of evidence and reminded the consular staff that journalists have the right to film in public spaces. The police questioned everyone at the scene, including asking the RFA reporter if they knew who had painted the slogans, before leaving. Initially, the police told RFA Cantonese that they would investigate the graffiti as a "hate crime," but later stated they would not conduct the investigation as consular staff "refused to cooperate." Simon Cheng, founder and chairperson of the advocacy group Hongkongers in Britain, suggested that the consulate's actions seemed like an attempt to control media activities in the UK. "At the very least, it shows the consular staff have no understanding of their legal rights or limits," Cheng stated, according to RFA report. "More importantly, if they start using China's tactics to restrict media freedom and block filming in the UK, that would be a form of transnational repression." Hong Kong exile groups in the UK have criticized the Chinese Communist Party's alleged transnational repression on British soil, citing an incident in 2023 when a church in Guildford canceled a children's workshop on justice, civil liberties, and human rights. Cheng noted that the consular staff seemed to have moderated their approach compared to a 2022 incident, where six Chinese diplomats, including the Consul General, were withdrawn after an assault on Hong Kong protester Bob Chan. "There are some differences in how they handled this...they seemed to be de-escalating and threatening to call the police, but that doesn't mean they had any legal justification for doing so," Cheng remarked, according to RFA report. He also mentioned that the graffiti reflected growing frustration among Hongkongers in the UK over China's ongoing repression of public dissent and political opposition in Hong Kong, but urged protesters to "express their demands in a legal manner." (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad, Dec 31 (PTI) An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan on Tuesday sentenced Gilgit-Baltistan's former chief minister Khalid Khurshid Khan to 34 years in prison for threatening the region's security agencies. Cases of sedition and terrorism were registered against Khan following a protest in July 2024, where he was accused of delivering a threatening speech. Also Read | Australia Celebrates New Year 2025: Country Welcomes New Year As Thousands of Citizens Gather at Sydney Opera House To Witness Spectacular Fireworks and Celebrations (Watch Video). The Anti-Terrorism Court No. 1 of Gilgit-Baltistan stated in its ruling that according to the prosecution, Khan had threatened the Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, police personnel, and intelligence agencies during the protest in Gilgit on July 26, 2024. The former chief minister reportedly claimed he would not spare anyone if he came to power again. The case further alleged that Khan incited violence against sensitive institutions. Also Read | Puerto Rico Power Outage: Blackout Hits Nearly All of Puerto Rico as US Territory Prepared To Celebrate New Year's Eve. After the case was registered, a joint investigation team (JIT) was formed, which found Khan guilty. Khan is currently absconding. The court said in its verdict that during the case proceedings, the prosecution was able to prove the allegations against Khan, leading to him being sentenced to 34 years in prison and fined under various sections. In addition to the lengthy sentence, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 600,000 on the politician and ordered the police to arrest him and implement his sentence. The court also ordered the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to block his computerised national identity card, further complicating his legal situation. His party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Gilgit-Baltistan, refused to accept the court's decision and announced that the struggle against oppression would continue. Earlier, Khan became the Chief Minister of the region during the PTI regime. He had served as the Chief Minister from 2020 until his disqualification in July 2023 over a fake degree case. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Port of Spain [Trinidad and Tobago], December 31 (ANI): Trinidad and Tobago has declared a state of emergency following killing incidents during the weekend added to what was already an exceptionally deadly year for the Caribbean nation, CNN reported. In the emergency orders announced by the office of the Prime Minister Keith Rowley on Monday, the police personnel will be able to conduct search among people and premises without warrants and detain suspects for up to 48 hours, in an effort to reduce what the leader termed an "unacceptable high level of violent crime." However, no curfew has been placed by the authorities. Also Read | 'Extending All Possible Help': MEA on Indian Nurse Nimisha Priya's Case in Yemen. The decision came after several people were killed in the gun violence during the weekend, taking the murder toll in Trinidad and Tobago in 2024 to 623 - the highest level in police records dating back to 2013, according to CNN report. According to the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), Trinidad and Tobago which has a population of 1.5 million has one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, along with Jamaica and Haiti, while violent deaths in the region are nearly three times the global average. Police has warned they expect the amount of gang-related violent crime involving powerful assault weapons to rise. Also Read | Which Country Will Celebrate New Year 2025 First and Last? Know When January 1 Begins Around the World at Different Time Zones. While addressing a briefing on Monday, Acting Attorney General Stuart Young said that there had been 61 homicides so far in the month of December, according to CNN report. These included a shooting incident on Saturday, which involved a high caliber automatic weapon outside a police station that claimed the life of one person and an incident less than 24 hours later in which five people were killed and one injured in the Port of Spain area. While speaking at the same briefing, Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds said two people were killed on Friday - one in a gang-related incident, another in a "domestic situation" - and 15 others killed in gun-related incidents since last Monday. Hinds said police considered the latest wave of incidents as an "outbreak of gang violence," adding that the military would assist in implementing the state of emergency. Stuart Young said that the use of high-caliber firearms by criminal gangs had made the recent violence particularly concerning, resulting in declaration of state of emergency. "There is very little chance of survival due to the velocity and the caliber of these weapons. This has been a major concern not only for us here in Trinidad and Tobago, but throughout the whole CARICOM region," Young said, referring to the regional Caribbean Community group of nations. A significant amount of violent crime like murder, assault and kidnapping in Trinidad and Tobago is connected to criminal gang activity and narcotics trafficking, according to the US State Department. In July, the US State Department announced that its travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago is at Level 3, advising US citizens to reconsider travel due to crime, according to CNN report. General Stuart Young said the government was in touch with the US to discuss how to control the situation as many of the high-powered weapons come from the US. Notably, firearms are not made in Caribbean nations. However, more than 7,000 firearms were recovered from them between 2018 and 2022. According to GAO, nearly three-quarters of those came from the US. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Thimphu [Bhutan], December 31 (ANI): Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on Tuesday signed the condolence book at the Embassy of India in Thimphu in memory of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Tobgay recalled former PM Manmohan Singh's "unwavering support and personal friendship" and expressed gratitude for his role in launching Bhutan's 11th Five Year Plan. Also Read | Year Ender 2024: From Dr Manmohan Singh to Ratan Tata and Maggie Smith, List of Famous People Who Passed Away This Year. Sharing a post on X, Tobgay wrote, "Signed the condolences book in memory of the late Dr. Manmohan Singh @Indiainbhutan. Profoundly grateful to Late PM for his unwavering support and personal friendship. Thanks to his support and cooperation, we were able to launch the 11th Five Year Plan swiftly and successfully." "He will be remembered as a true friend of Bhutan who played a pivotal role in strengthening the ties between Bhutan and India. We offer our heartfelt prayers for Dr. Manmohan Singh and extend our deepest condolences to his wife and family," the post added. Also Read | India Achievements in 2024: India Emerges As Global Leader in Space, Nuclear Energy, AI, Infrastructure, Biotech, Pharma, Blockchain and Other Sectors. https://x.com/tsheringtobgay/status/1874008752246206662 Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92 due to age-related medical issues in Delhi on December 26. He was cremated with full state honours at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, and government dignitaries on December 28. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid their last respects to the former PM by placing a wreath near his mortal remains. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge along with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were also present for the cremation ceremony after they paid tribute to the former Prime Minister. Singh's political career spanned several decades, with notable positions including Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, during which he spearheaded economic reforms that transformed India's economy. He served as the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, succeeding Atal Bihari Vajpayee. His tenure is particularly remembered for his steady leadership during economic crises and his contributions to modernizing India's economy. He was succeeded by Narendra Modi in 2014 after the Congress-led UPA lost the general elections. Earlier this year, Manmohan Singh retired as a member of Rajya Sabha. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Monday (December 30) said that the law does not give preferential treatment to anyone while reacting to the saga of Tollywood actor Allu Arjun's brief arrest. Holding Allu Arjun responsible for the death of a 35-year-old woman and serious injuries to her minor son during a stampede at a theatre in Hyderabad when they went to watch Pushpa 2 movie, Hyderabad Police recently arrested the actor. Its Not Relevant: Heres How Pawan Kalyan Reacted to Journalists Question About Nephew Allu Arjuns Arrest in Hyderabad Stampede Case (Watch Video). "Some are saying that the Telangana government should have gone soft, but the law should not give preferential treatment to anyone. That's what the law says," said Kalyan, adding that law does not care how popular or powerful a person is. Kalyan is a close relative of Allu Arjun. The actor-politician, while addressing reporters, reminded that he had declared in the Assembly that a mistake committed by him should also be punished. Allu Arjuns Bail Hearing in Tragic Pushpa 2 Stampede Case Postponed to January 3, 2025. Pawan Kalyan on 'Pushpa 2' Actor Allu Arjun's Arrest Blame cannot be hero centric. If u see film as a group. Even blame has to be taken as a group u cannot target individual - @PawanKalyan garu. He backed Allu arjun#AlluArjunArrest pic.twitter.com/cPfexvHOGl (@bunnykalyan007) December 30, 2024 Further, Kalyan observed that the makers of Pushpa 2: The Rule should have called on the family of the deceased woman immediately without delay. A gesture like this could have averted the situation from spiralling out of control and a "mountain being made out of a molehill", he said. "What they (movie makers) could have done was to go to the victim's home the very next day. The producers, director, or anyone from the team should have expressed their condolences and shown they are with the family in their grief. Had they done this, it wouldn't have escalated like this," said Kalyan. Terming the death of the 35-year-old woman and the hospitalisation of her son as "a very painful episode", the Janasena founder said the deceased woman and her family wanted to have a nice evening, return home, and share the experience, but it ended tragically. Noting that blaming the hero (Arjun) alone is not right, Kalyan said that when the cinema was made as a team, then the problem should also be tackled as a team. "But what happened was that the entire blame was pushed on the hero, making him the lonely target. I didn't find that correct. During the later consequences, no one has guided them well and once a case has been filed, you don't question the police," he said. Calling the fiasco a team fault, the Deputy CM said the producers and directors should have worked as a team and stood by Allu Arjun, instead of "isolating" him. According to Kalyan, Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy has always stood by the Telugu film industry and for this particular movie, he approved benefits shows and hiking ticket prices. However, Kalyan said Reddy had to take a 'tough call' and he took that call and highlighted that if a case had been filed against him (Kalyan), he cannot simply quash it by virtue of being the Deputy Chief Minister as the system would take it over. New Delhi, December 31: The Delhi High Court recently rejected a man's plea seeking action against doctors over his wife's death and said medical negligence was not merely established by dissatisfaction towards an expected standard of care. Justice Sanjeev Narula, in his December 20 verdict, said doctors should not be constrained either by the expectations or timelines set by the patient's family. "It is paramount to remember that medical negligence is not established by mere dissatisfaction or the assertion of an 'expected' standard of care..It is acknowledged that doctors are expected to apply a reasonable level of expertise and exercise due diligence in their practices..The proper criterion for determining medical negligence lies in assessing whether the actions of the doctor fall below the accepted standards of a reasonably competent practitioner within the relevant field," the judge said. Physical Relations by Minor Survivor Cannot Automatically Mean Sexual Assault, Says Delhi High Court. The man's wife died in 2016 allegedly owing to the medical negligence of certain doctors at a private hospital. The court observed while doctors were bound to prioritise the well-being of the patient and to administer the most appropriate treatment, they should not be constrained by the expectations or timelines set by the patient's family. "While the petitioner may have preferred quicker actions, the doctors had to assess a critically unstable patient, manage immediate crises, and prioritise interventions according to clinical necessity, not family expectations," the court said. A doctor, the judge said, cannot be deemed negligent if they discharged their duties with reasonable skill and competence and they must be guided by medical necessity and professional judgment. The petitioner's allegations pertained to three doctors besides the delay in administration of drugs and tests besides unavailability of a senior doctor and drug overdose. The plea therefore sought a direction to the National Medical Commission (NMC) to punish them for medical and professional negligence to the fullest extent possible, including removing their names from the rolls. While the court sympathised with the petitioner's loss, it said the Delhi Medical Council and NMC had considered his complaint, and determined certain shortcomings on part of two other doctors while directing they underwent training, but refrained from taking action against the ones named in the plea. HC on Divorce: Wife Not Disentitled To Claim Maintenance Merely Because She Seeks Divorce, Says Delhi High Court. The court therefore couldn't reassess the conclusions of expert bodies in matters such as medical negligence and in the absence of palpable perversity or illegality, it found no ground to interference with their decisions under Article 226 of the Constitution. New Delhi, December 31: Delhi Police has arrested a burglar nicknamed 'spider-man' for his ability to scale walls and sneak into homes undetected from the Kabir Nagar area in northwest district, an official said on Tuesday. "Our team from Sangam Park has apprehended Yogesh, a notorious burglar who earned the nickname 'spider-man' for his unique methods of sneaking into houses," Deputy Commissioner of Police (northwest), Bhisham Singh, said. Delhi Robbery Case: Police Arrest 22-year-old Transgender in Connection with Theft. On December 27, a resident of Bharat Nagar filed a complaint claiming his house was trespassed during the night, and valuable items, including two mobile phones, PAN card, Aadhaar card and other documents, were stolen, the officer said. After analysing over 50 CCTV footage, police identified the accused through his movements near the crime scene. Six Arrested for Robbing Bizman of Rs 52 Lakh in Delhi. "Local intelligence and informers were pressed into service, leading to Yogesh's arrest from his residence in Kabir Nagar. During interrogation, Yogesh confessed to the burglary and his involvement in other thefts. The stolen items were also recovered from his possession," the DCP said. With his arrest, police also cracked five previous cases registered against him in Roop Nagar, Maurya Enclave, Khyala, and Jahangir Puri, the officer added. New Delhi, December 31: Samsung is about to unveil its much-anticipated Galaxy S25 series, soon. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series will likely be introduced in the Galaxy Unpacked event in January 2025. Before Samsung makes its official announcement, there are leaks and rumours appearing online. The Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event is expected on January 22, 2025. Interested customers might be able to pre-order the Galaxy S25 series in the final week of January 2025. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series will likely come with four smartphone models, which may include the Samsung Galaxy S25, Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. POCO X7 5G, POCO X7 Pro 5G Launch in India on January 9, 2024, Will Feature Segments Most Durable Curved Display Phone. The starting price for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to be around INR 1,29,000. There are speculations that Samsung is planning to integrate Large Language Model (LLM) support into its voice assistant, Bixby. An improved version of the feature is available in China, and it is anticipated that a global release will likely take place in January. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Specifications and Features (Expected) The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. It may have a 6.8-inch display with 31201440 resolution. There are rumours that the maximum brightness could reach up to 3,000 nits. Additionally, reports indicate that the Galaxy S25 Ultra might replace its sharp edges with a rounded design. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is also said to include an ALoP (All Lenses on Prism) telephoto lens, which is expected to provide a compact lens option. iPhone 17 Series To Get Higher Refresh Rate ProMotion Displays As Apple Getting Rid of 60Hz for Its Upcoming Models: Reports. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra camera at the rear will likely feature a 200MP main sensor. Additionally, there may be a 12MP telephoto lens with a 3x zoom, a 50MP telephoto lens with a 5x zoom, equipped with the Sony IMX854 sensor, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. The smartphone is said to come with a 12MP front-facing camera. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 31, 2024 10:09 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Old Moores Almanac is 261 years old in 2025 and it's one of the oldest almanacs in the world and still has the same green cover it has had for decades. It is the first and original, and Irish. Some editions over 250 years old still sit in the Long Room Library in Trinity, next to the Bibles! There is more information about its fascinating Irish history here. Old Moores Almanac has been a stocking filler since its inception. It is most famous for its predictions of future events both Irish and global. These predictions have been getting great domestic and international news coverage for their accuracy. For example, before it happened, Old Moore said that Kate Middleton already had a baby on board (before it was announced) and that the babys name would be Charlotte. In previous years, Old Moore predicted that Kanye would have mental health problems and that Trump would run for president again. He also predicted the rise of Bitcoin over 10 years ago. And of course, he predicted the pandemic, a year before it happened. In 2023, he predicted that there would be a submarine drama (there was), aliens for real (according to the US government) and that the dark side of the moon would be in the news (India landed a craft on it), and that 2023 would be the year of AI, and Meghan and Harry would have marriage and money problems, among other predictions. 2024 predictions In 2024, the predictions said that Biden would step down before the election, Trump would suffer assassination attempts, and that the USA would swing conservative with its voting preferences. It also predicted that many European countries would swing conservative. The Almanac also said that there would be a space drama, and of course, some poor astronauts are stuck in space. Would someone please get them down! There are more predictions that came true here here. The magazine holds on to its position of having the highest circulation of any of the indigenous magazines in the country with sales hovering around 60,000 copies. It has enjoyed a revival in recent years due to its accurate predictions and its love of futurism. As well as the world-famous predictions, the 2025 edition includes our usual ground-breaking features. Some Predictions for 2025 Assassination attempt Elon Musk More than one plane crash Robots in our houses 2025 will not be remembered fondly at all in economic terms Fall of the US dollar Bitcoin becomes part of multiple federal reserves. XRP is one to watch. Euro is in danger of collapse The BRICS will thrive Mexico, Canada and USA will form an economic union, with no financial borders, like the EU New Umero currency from Canada, USA and Mexico There will be another attempt on Trumps life Trump may not see out his term Change of Pope Return to traditional values/ religion / family life Swifty baby Throne goes to Prince William Facebook: facebook.com/OldMooresAlmanac Web: www.oldmooresalmanac.com X: @TOldMooresAlmana A dozen of Irelands leading novice hurdlers remain in contention for the first Grade 1 honours of the new year in the Lawlors Of Naas Novice Hurdle. This Sundays Grade 1 highlight has become a red-letter date in the racing calendar and Willie Mullins is keen to maintain his impressive recent record in the Naas race with eight of the 12 entries residing in his Closutton stables. Among the Mullins-trained entries is the Cheltenham Champion Bumper winner Jasmin De Vaux, who carries the colours of last years Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle winning owners Simon Munir & Isaac Souede. Jasmin De Vaux, who made a winning racecourse debut at Naas, opened his account over hurdles at Navan impressively earlier this month. Cest Ta Chance is another for Mullins, Munir and Souede, while impressive Punchestown winner You Oughta Know and the three-time victorious Ballygunner Castle also highlight the depth of talent that the champion trainer looks to have at his disposal in this division. Early season winners Plontier and Supersundae and Naas winner Spasiba are joined by cosy Cork winner Kel Histoire who completes the list of Mullins entrants. Kel Histoire is owned by JP McManus and the owner is also responsible for the Ted Walsh-trained Shuffle The Deck who remains among the 12 horses which stood their ground at todays forfeit stage. Walsh immediately earmarked a return to Naas for the Grade 1 Lawlors Of Naas Novice Hurdle after Shuffle The Deck won his maiden hurdle at his local track a fortnight ago and the five-year-old remains on course for Sundays Grade 1 assignment. I was happy with Shuffle The Deck the last day when he won at Naas and the Lawlor's of Naas Novice Hurdle looked the logical next step for him to take, Walsh said on Monday. Hopefully he puts up a good show. He's a fine big horse that will improve with time and we will know a lot more after Sundays race. Naas is my local track and it always has great ground and is a true test for a horse. I am fortunate to be living so close to two great tracks, Naas and Punchestown, and they have both been very lucky tracks for me. This horse has ran a nice race at both of those tracks this season and well see how he runs back at Naas on Sunday but its nice to be going back there with a horse like him. The Henry de Bromhead-trained Butch Cassidy may once again renew his rivalry with Shuffle The Deck. Butch Cassidy scored in the maiden hurdle at Punchestown in which Shuffle The Deck was third, while the Bective Stud-owned pair of The Yellow Clay and Wingmen remain in the mix for Gordon Elliott. Elliott has won the Lawlors Of Naas Novice Hurdle four times since it became a Grade 1 contest and The Yellow Clay is already a Grade 3 and Grade 2 winner over this distance. The biggest fixture of the year at Naas Racecourse comes early in January and brings the curtain down on a busy festive period of racing and is now further enhanced with the new Grade 2 Racing Post Novice Chase that adds further quality for racegoers. As well as getting to witness a Cheltenham Festival winner and potential contenders over Hurdles in the Lawlors Of Naas Novice Hurdle, racegoers may get a sight of another Cheltenham Festival winner and leading contender in the Racing Post Novice Chase as Majborough features among the entries. Triumph Hurdle winner Majborough was an extremely impressive winner on his chasing debut at Fairyhouse earlier this month and has eight potential rivals for Sundays fascinating novice chase. Stable companion Ile Atlantique once again gives Mullins a strong hand, while Henry de Bromheads Grade 1 winning novice hurdler Inthepocket, Gordon Elliotts multiple Grade 1 runner-up Firefox and Gavin Cromwells two-time chase winner Only By Night suggest the first renewal of the Racing Post Novice Chase is going to be one to remember. Sundays high quality card will begin with the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Beginners Chase at 12.25pm and conclude with the first four-year-old bumper of the year at 3.40pm. An elderly man who was injured in a road crash in County Louth on St Stephen's Day has died in hospital, gardai have confirmed. An investigation is underway and they are appealing to the public for information following the two vehicle collision which occurred on the N1 at Plaster, County Louth at around 6.40pm on Thursday, December 26. "The driver from one of these vehicles, a man in his 80s, passed away from his injuries earlier this afternoon (Monday). A man in his 60s and a male child received treatment at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda following the collision. Their injuries are not life-threatening," said a spokesperson. Investigating gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to come forward. READ ALSO: What is Norovirus? Symptoms to watch amid illness spike in Ireland over Christmas and New Year Road users with camera footage, including dash-cam, who were traveling on the N1, between 6.15pm and 6.45pm on St Stephen's Day, are asked to make this footage available to gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Dundalk garda station on 042 938 8400, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Tougher legislation on hate crime in Ireland has come into effect. The Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024 will increase prison sentences for certain crimes motivated by hatred. It comes as Garda statistics indicate a rise in the number of hate crimes. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said the new legislation sends a clear message to those behind hate attacks. We are determined to stamp out hate-motivated crimes and we are determined to protect vulnerable communities, she said. This legislation sends a clear message to those who target victims because of their association with a particular identity characteristic that they will be prosecuted for hate crime. Up to now, Ireland has been one of the few remaining EU countries not to have specific hate crime offences set out in law. This is despite An Garda Siochana recording certain crimes as hate crimes, and despite the fact that recorded hate crimes increased by 7.5% in 2023 and by 29% a year earlier. This legislation meets a clear gap in our laws and is widely supported by the public. Im delighted to sign the order to commence it in full. This legislation is designed to protect people targeted because of certain identity characteristics namely race; colour; nationality; religion; national or ethnic origin; descent; disability; gender; sex characteristics and sexual orientation. It creates new, aggravated forms of certain existing offences such as hate crimes where they are aggravated by hatred of one or more of these protected characteristics. Incitement to hatred and hate speech are criminalised separately under the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989 which remains in force. A house in Co Roscommon is being searched and two cars have been seized for examination by gardai investigating the death of a woman who was found in a field. Gardai launched an inquiry after the womans body was discovered on land at Curraghaleen, near Athlone, on Monday. She has been named locally as Mirjana Pap, who was in her 50s. Her body was taken to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway for a post-mortem examination by the deputy state pathologist. Gardai have appealed to the public for information and say they are particularly interested in the movements of a silver 08G registered Peugeot 207 on Saturday between 11am and 12pm. They said the car is understood to have travelled from Beechville estate, Athlone, onto the N6 motorway westbound from junction 11 to junction 13 before continuing on the R362 from Monksland to Bealnaulla. A senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the inquiry and an incident room has been set up at Athlone garda station. A family liaison officer has also been assigned to provide support. Gardai said examinations are under way at the scene and at a residential property in Athlone by the Garda Technical Bureau, and two cars have also been seized for examination. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 090 649 8550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. A new pilot programme to support the health and wellbeing of older women in nursing homes has been unveiled by Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler. The 280,000 initiative, funded by the Department of Health Womens Health Taskforce Fund, will launch in March 2025 and run for 18 months across four nursing homes in Leitrim and Roscommon. The programme, developed in partnership with Age Friendly Ireland, aims to address social isolation and improve the quality of life for older women in residential care. It introduces community-based services designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional health while fostering a sense of belonging. Minister Butler highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative: This programme represents a significant step forward in our commitment to improving the lives of older women in nursing homes, an issue very close to my own heart. By introducing community-based services, we aim to reduce loneliness and enhance the overall health and wellbeing of residents. Services will include activities to boost mental and physical health, opportunities for creative and cultural engagement, and improved access to information and local supports. The programme also seeks to strengthen connections between nursing home residents and the wider community, piloting a systemic change in how these supports are accessed. As part of the Womens Health Action Plan 2024/2025, the initiative reflects a broader strategy to support older women in living well and living longer. An evaluation report will assess its impact on residents loneliness, quality of life, and overall health, providing insights to guide future improvements in nursing home care. Minister Butler expressed confidence that the pilot would pave the way for a more integrated approach to elderly care: These supports are about more than meeting immediate needs; they foster a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for mental and emotional health. This project will serve as a model for reforms across the country. Ping An Health Supported the Official Release of the "Group Standards for Remote and Internet-Based Family Doctor Healthcare Services" HONG KONG and SHANGHAI, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With Ping An Healthcare and Technology Company Limited's ("Ping An Good Doctor", "Ping An Health", or "the Company", Stock Code: 1833.HK) strategic support, and guidance from the General Practice Development Research Center of Peking University Health Science Center, The Chinese Aging Well Association and its Family Doctor Branch, the "Group Standards for Remote and Internet-Based Family Doctor Healthcare Services" (the "Group Standards") were unveiled at a conference in Beijing. The meeting announced the implementation of the year-long development of the Group Standard and explained its detailed provisions. At the meeting, Ping An Health's Chairman and CEO, Li Dou, stated that the proposed solutions by the Group Standards are one of the recommended approaches for building a tiered diagnosis and treatment system. Li Dou believes it will be a strong supplement to the national efforts to improve healthcare access, enabling "major diseases to be treated within the same province, moderate illnesses at the city or county level, and common illnesses at the community level," in line with the Healthy China 2030 initiative. First Nationwide Group Standards Aim to Enhance Healthcare Access Under the Healthy China 2030 initiative, a series of supportive framework policies have introduced by national ministries and commissions. To better implement these policies, the Group Standards, as the first Group Standards in China for remote and internet-based family doctor healthcare services, aim to promote and expand the widespread adoption and development of family doctor contract services. By standardizing service processes, content, quality control, and safety measures, the Group Standards establish comprehensive and scientific benchmarks for service delivery. This will enhance public trust in online family doctor services, further enhancing the implementation of a tiered diagnosis and treatment system and establishing primary healthcare as a strong foundation for public health. Developed by over 30 leading general practice medical experts in China, the Group Standards incorporate advanced domestic and international experience and technical practices. It undergoes extensive research, surveys, and practical validation, focusing on the core service content, quality evaluation systems, and information security protocols of family doctor services. Ping An Family Doctor's Innovative Practices Drive High-Quality Development of Family Doctor Services As the only company involved in drafting and releasing the Group Standards, Ping An Health draws on a decade of experience and insights in healthcare to continuously develop and strengthen its core family doctor services. In 2024, Ping An Health has further developed its flagship medical and health service brand "Ping An Family Doctor," and introduced the "1-1-3-12" one-stop, proactive health management services system, providing "proactive health management, effective chronic disease control, and whole-course disease management" for users. As of mid-2024, the number of Ping An Family Doctor's members exceeded 14 million, and the five-star positive feedback rate for online consultations exceeded 98%. When sharing practical case studies, Zhang Jun, General Manager of Healthcare Operations Department of Ping An Health, stated that "we ensure continuous and professional training for our family doctor teams to ensure quality; operate digital health and internet service platform accredited by WONCA (World Organization of Family Doctors); and undergo service quality assessments by AGPAL (Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited), a globally renowned accreditation expert. We're extremely proud that our continuous dedication to perfecting Ping An Family Doctor's services has given rise to the Group Standards." At the conference, Professor Fang Ningyuan of Shanghai Jiao Tong University encouraged widespread adoption and certification of the Group Standards. He presented plaques to the first group of participating organizations along with Professor Chi Chunhua, Director of the Research Center for General Practice Development at Peking University Health Science Center, and Hou Jieke, Senior Vice President of Ping An Health, marking the beginning of the Group Standards' practical implementation. Looking forward, the Group Standards will partner with AGPAL, with the goal of achieving recognition as an international standard by The International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua). This collaboration will further contribute to realizing universal health coverage and the development of a national tiered diagnosis and treatment system. SOURCE Ping An Healthcare and Technology Company Limited 31 december 2024 at 02:26 News published onand distributed by: Refined Energy Corp. Announces Option Grant to Advisory Board Members VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Refined Energy Corp. (CSE: RUU; OTC: RFMCF; FRA: CWA0) (the "Company") announces that it has granted 200,000 stock options ("Options") pursuant to the Company's equity incentive plan (the "Plan"), each with an exercise price of CDN $0.15, to Rock U Consulting, a corporation held by Ken Wheatley, an experienced professional geoscientist, and James des Cognets, a mining industry veteran, who have agreed to join the Company's advisory board. Such options will vest in equal installments on each of April 19, 2025, August 19, 2025, December 19, 2025, and April 19, 2026, and shall expire December 19, 2026. Each vested Option, upon satisfaction of the exercise price, entitles the holder thereof to receive one common share of the Company. The Options are subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and the acceptance of the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Options (and any common shares issued upon the exercise of the Options before April 20, 2025) will be subject to a hold period until April 20, 2025, in accordance with the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange. Mark Fields, CEO of the Company, commented, "Ken and James bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that we will be able to draw upon as we continue to advance the Company's properties. I am happy to have them as part of our team." Ken Wheatley Mr. Wheatley is a Professional Geoscientist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists in Saskatchewan. With over 44 years of uranium exploration experience in Canada, Mr. Wheatley started exploring for uranium in 1980 and was involved with the discovery of a number of deposits: Amok Ltd. (Cluff Lake, Dominique Janine deposits), Minatco (McClean Lake, Sue deposits), Uranerz Exploration and Mining Ltd. (Key Lake, BV and P-Patch uranium occurrences) and Areva Resources Canada Inc. (now Orano) where he led the exploration team in discovery and delineation of the Midwest A deposit. Most recently Mr. Wheatley was the Vice President of Exploration for Forum Energy Metals Corp. where he discovered the Opie, Barney and Otis West uranium showings at Northwest Athabasca. He also explored for uranium in Nunavut around the Kiggavik deposits, explored for copper at the Janice Lake project and for nickel/platinum/palladium at the Love Lake project. Mr. Wheatley graduated with an H.B.Sc . from Laurentian University in 1980, and a M.Sc. from the University of Saskatchewan in 1985. James des Cognets Mr. Cognets has fifteen years' experience in commodities sectors, spanning leadership roles in operations, finance, strategy, and investing. He is currently the Vice President of Strategy and Financial Planning & Analysis at First Bauxite, an independent producer of industrial minerals. James' experience includes five years with Resource Capital Funds, one of the largest and oldest mining-focused private equity funds, where he was responsible for RCF's global royalty portfolio, as well as investments in energy transition metals and industrial minerals. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering and French from Vanderbilt University and an MBA (high honors) from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. James has also received his ICD.D accreditation from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. About Refined Energy Corp. Refined Energy Corp. is a junior mining company dedicated to identifying, evaluating and acquiring interests in mineral properties in North America. In addition to the Dufferin Project, Refined also has an option to earn up to a 100% interest in the Basin and Milner uranium properties in Saskatchewan. The Company continues to review other mineral properties in North America for possible acquisition in the future. For further information, please contact: Mark Fields Chief Executive Officer and Director Phone: (604) 398-3378 Email: [email protected] Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the acceptance of the Canadian Securities Exchange of the Options and the vesting thereof, and the advancement of the Company's properties. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including, in respect of the forward-looking information included in this press release, the assumptions that the Canadian Securities Exchange will not object to the grant of the Options. Although forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions of the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among other things, that the Canadian Securities Exchange may object to the proposed grant of Options and that the proposed Options and vesting thereof may not proceed as currently anticipated. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release. 31 december 2024 at 08:00 News published onand distributed by: China to upgrade FTA with Singapore, implement FTA with Maldives, in show of commitment to free trade 09:01, December 31, 2024 By Tao Mingyang ( Global Times China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced on Monday that the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Further Upgrade Protocol will come into effect on Tuesday. Also on Monday, Wang Wentao, China's Commerce Minister, held a video conference with Mohamed Saeed, Minister for Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives, and the two sides announced that the China-Maldives FTA will take effect on Wednesday. The China-Singapore FTA Further Upgrade Protocol, in line with high-standard international economic and trade rules, will further open up the services trade and investment markets between China and Singapore, the MOFCOM said in a statement. In terms of market access, China and Singapore made commitments to opening up services and investment in a negative list mode. This is the first time that China has completed the negotiation of upgrading an FTA with a negative list, according to the ministry. With regard to rules, under the protocol, the two sides have established high-standard institutional arrangements in areas such as trade in services, investment, and telecommunications services, and further expanded cooperation in emerging areas such as the digital economy. "The entry into force of the Protocol will further stimulate the potential of service trade and investment cooperation between the two countries, and continuously enrich the development of the all-round, high-quality and forward-looking partnership between China and Singapore," the statement said. For its part, Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry said in a statement on Monday that "Singapore businesses will benefit from greater market access to China through a 'negative list' approach, where by default, all sectors are opened to investors except for those specifically listed." China and Singapore first signed an FTA in October 2008, and upgraded the FTA in 2011 and 2018. In December 2023, the two sides signed the Protocol. China has remained Singapore's largest trading partner for 11 consecutive years, and Singapore is the second largest source of foreign investment for China and the largest destination for Chinese outbound investment, according to the MOFCOM. Zhou Shixin, director of the Institute for Foreign Policy Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, pointed out that the upgraded FTA between China and Singapore can be seen as a bellwether of regional free trade, as Singapore has a relatively high-standard system and mechanism for economic cooperation in the region. "The upgrading of the China-Singapore FTA further highlighted China's high-standard trade system, which will facilitate China's participation in more regional trade agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership," Zhou told the Global Times on Monday. Meanwhile, once the China-Maldives FTA takes effect, most of China's exports to the Maldives such as ships, electrical equipment, furniture, and agricultural products will benefit. While most of the aquatic products originating from the Maldives will also enjoy zero-tariff treatment when exported to China, the MOFCOM said in a statement. "The entry into force and implementation of the FTA will provide a solid institutional guarantee for enhancing the level of trade and investment liberalization and facilitation between the two countries, effectively promoting greater development in bilateral economic and trade relations, and continuously improving the well-being of the enterprises and people of both nations," the statement said. Xu Liping, director of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that the China-Maldives FTA further underscored China's commitment to expanding opening-up toward the Global South and to promoting open, free global trade. "As global trade is overshadowed by the rise of protectionism, upgraded and new FTAs between China and other countries underscored China's firm commitment to promoting global free trade," Xu told the Global Times on Monday, adding that these agreements will inject more vitality into the nation's foreign trade in the coming year. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) THE LACK of twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations caught the attention of one Limerick shopper, who is worried that flagship stores are now ignoring Christmas. Joanna Cripps lives in Glenroe and is originally from Buckinghamshire in the UK. She has shopped in Dunnes Stores Childers Road weekly for the last 10 years. She noticed that this year, the store seems to be lacking festive cheer at the entrance and outside. According to 68-year-old Ms Cripps, Dunnes stands out for its sudden opting out of Christmas, considering that in other years, they had Christmas decorations adorning the store. READ ALSO: International Rugby Experience closes its doors for the final time It might seem like a little thing and it is in comparison to whats going on in the world at the moment, but Im sure in past years they had Christmas decorations adorning the store, the retired judge said. They do sell them, but they havent made an effort with Christmas music or lights - I just find it all very strange. Saying that she asked the manager at the Childers Road branch about the store skipping Christmas, the response was that corporate said they werent going to decorate this year. Its never overwhelmingly decorative, but they do normally make a bit of effort. Dunnes is a flagship organisation within Ireland and if they dont set standards, other shops next year might think well they didnt bother, so Im not going to bother. I travel an hour every week to shop there and in my opinion, Dunnes is fantastic. I feel extra let down this time of year, because you want your spirits lifted. It seems to me that the watering down of traditional celebrations has already started and Im not a happy bunny regarding it. Ms Cripps added that she has a passion for keeping tradition alive and that she is mostly worried for future generations. Dunnes Stores isnt the only issue that she has with the watering down of Christmas, but that it also worries her that people dont tend to send Christmas cards, that there is no Midnight Mass in her locality and that there are very few carol services and nativity plays. Dunnes Stores Childers Road has been contacted for comment. At time of publication, no reply was received. TWO NEW state-of-the-art ambulances have been awarded to Irish Red Cross teams in Limerick. Irish Red Cross volunteers in both south and east Limerick have collected two brand new ambulances to fuel the vital community services they provide throughout Co Limerick. The new vehicles will provide a more comfortable experience for the patient and require less manual lifting for the volunteer crew. Funding for the community first responder vehicles was awarded through the CLAR programme, on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development. Six Irish Red Cross branches, including the two in county Limerick, were awarded a total of 400,000 to help with the purchase of vehicles. READ ALSO: Mid-West charities in contention for Sarsfield Credit Union prize rely on local donations A spokesperson for the local Irish Red Cross volunteers said: We are delighted to drive our new ambulance to its new home in Co Limerick. We have many volunteers who are committed to doing their best to help people and communities in times of emergency and crisis. With this ambulance, we can help to deliver better outcomes for the people of the local areas we serve. Secretary general of Irish Red Cross Deirdre Garvey said: The Irish Red Cross branches and volunteers provide an invaluable service to their communities helping people in times of crisis, and enabling our communities to attend events safely. This investment in community first responder vehicles is a great boost for disaster preparedness, emergency response and the health of our rural communities. We are delighted to see Irish Red Cross volunteers empowered to act locally and support better outcomes for communities. Irish Red Cross ambulances provide community support and first aid response at events throughout the country. The volunteers at these branches provided first aid support at almost 80 events alone in 2023. The Irish Red Cross has a national footprint through its 73 branches nationally The Red Cross is the worlds largest humanitarian movement. The Irish National Society of the Red Cross was founded in 1939. Today it has more than 3,000 members aged from four to 84. A MOTHER and daughter who are accused of possessing 1.28m worth of cannabis at Shannon Airport two days before Christmas are to seek bail in the High Court, a court has heard. At a special New Years Eve sitting of Ennis District Court, Dovil Reifonaite, aged 40, and Migle Kurieniute, aged 20, both with an address at Newlands, Mullingar, County Westmeath, appeared via video link from Limerick Prison. The two first appeared before a special sitting of Limerick District Court on Christmas Eve and spent their Christmas in prison after Judge Alec Gabbett refused bail following garda objections. Each accused is charged with one count of possession of cannabis for sale or supply, as well as one count of possession of cannabis. READ ALSO: Limerick gardai seize high-powered vehicle in Rathkeale During this Tuesday's court hearing, solicitor John Casey said: I am just waiting for the Christmas break to end for the High Court offices to re-open to bring an application for bail to the High Court." Sgt John Burke told the court that a small sample of the suspected drugs was brought to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) and the tests confirmed that the substance is cannabis. Judge Gabbett asked if the defendants need to be produced (in person) in court on January 8 for additional charges and Sgt Burke replied no. Judge Gabbett then asked: Do we want to order a Lithuanian interpreter for the next court date?" Mr Casey said that Migle Kurieniute has very good English and her mother, Dovil Reifonaite "not so much" adding: I believe that we are grand for the moment. Ms Kurieniute confirmed to the court that she was happy to explain things to her mother. During a bail hearing during the Christmas Eve court sitting, gardai said it will be alleged that, at 11:16am on December 23 last, the two accused disembarked from a flight at Shannon Airport from Boston. Gardai alleged that officers attached to Revenue discovered 64kgs vacuum-packed packages of cannabis with a street value of 1.28 million, in four suitcases belonging to the two accused. It was a significant quantity of drugs, gardai added. READ ALSO: Garda appeal for missing woman close to Limerick-Cork border Mr Casey told the Christmas Eve court sitting that Ms Reifonaite and Ms Kurieniute had lived in Mullingar for the past eight years and that they would abide by any bail conditions. Ms Kurieniute has been here since she was 12. They have set up home here, and if granted bail they will sign on daily or even twice daily at a garda station, this is where their life is, said Mr Casey. Following the court hearing on New Year's Eve, Judge Gabbett further remanded the two in custody to appear, via video-link, at Ennis District Court on January 8. Investigations are ongoing. BALLYHOURA Development is inviting youth workers and young people aged 18 to 30 from across Limerick to engage with a free European initiative. The Youth Empowerment for the Sustainable Development Goals (YeSDGs) project aims to empower young people to take charge of issues that are important to them, in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals. Such issues regard social issues, climate issues, cost of living issues and much more, giving those who wish to partake a chance to make an impact in their areas. By joining YeSDGs, participants receive support to understand the relevance of the European Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Limerick. It also helps to identify and co-develop tools to empower more young people to amplify their voices on issues that are important to them and drive local actions to help create change. READ ALSO: New book explores history and evolution of Irish lakes This is your moment to lead the change! said a spokesperson from the Ballyhoura Development Association. Join YeSDGs and help Europe and the world achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Youth 4 Global Goals (Youth4GG) is an initiative that aims to activate young people to contribute towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also referred to as the Global Goals and Agenda 2030. Activating youth will happen in three stages: awareness, understanding and action. The simple framework allows organisations, such as Ballyhoura Development Association in working with youth around the SDGs. The core of the initiative is to drive action by young people to create a better world, and move beyond the traditional role in advocacy. Ballyhoura Development is a community-led Local Development Company, and charity, which works with communities in the Ballyhoura region of East Limerick and North Cork. The company has successfully implemented a wide range of national and European projects and programmes since its establishment in 1989. LIMERICK City and County Council has published its Gender Pay Gap Report, highlighting the difference in the average hourly wage of men and women across a workforce. Employers with more than 150 employees in Ireland are required to publish their gender pay gap data before the end of 2024 and within six months of the reference date. Limerick City and County Council and all local authorities in the country have June 30, 2024 as the reference date. The 2024 report shows a gender pay gap for all employees of 1.72% mean and -5.50% median. This mean gender pay gap shows that on average, males are paid 1.72% more than females, while the median gender pay gap shows that the median rate of pay for females is 5.5% higher than the median rate of pay for male. In 2023, the mean gender pay gap for all employees was 3.88% and the median gender pay gap was -5.61%. Commenting following the publication of the report, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly said: Publishing our gender pay gap data helps to reinforce our focus on supporting an open and inclusive workplace at Limerick City and County Council. It provides a new method of evaluating equality in our organisation. In particular I welcome the improvement in the mean gender pay gap figure in 2024, while acknowledging improvement is always possible. READ MORE: PICTURES: Kilcornan community honour their Guinness World Record holders Our organisation is a place where all employees have the same opportunities for recognition and career development and are treated fairly and equitably. We are committed to addressing workplace barriers to equality and creating an open and inclusive workplace community. In this regard, we operate a number of equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives and supports. We will work with our colleagues across the sector to share best practice and will continue to monitor these trends over time and look forward to next years figures. The Councils Gender Pay Gap 2024 report can be found here. Dr Daly added: As an employer, Limerick City and County Council is committed to providing a positive and supportive environment for employees. The Council offers flexible and family friendly arrangements, blended working, and great career progression and education opportunities. Limerick City and County Council is a great place to work, and we encourage anyone looking for a job in our Council to visit Limerick.ie/Council or check out www.localgovernmentjobs.ie to see what we have to offer. The gender pay gap is not the same as equal pay. Employment Equality legislation provides for equal pay for like work. All male and female employees in the local government sector are paid equally for work that is the same or similar or for work of equal value, therefore this report does not examine equal pay. Rates of pay within the sector are agreed through national wage agreements negotiated regularly between employers and staff representatives. The Gender Pay Gap calculates the percentage difference between the average earnings of males and females irrespective of their role, using the specific measures outlined in the report. Researchers in Dublin have produced a report showing the benefits of a plurilingual approach in teaching Irish in primary schools, particularly children whose first language is not Irish or English. The Dublin City University (DCU) project said it promotes cultural diversity in schools by encouraging children in English-medium primary schools to draw on all of their linguistic knowledge. Ireland is a multilingual country with more than 200 languages spoken daily. Polish is the most commonly spoken outside of Irish and English. Almost 124,000 people speak Polish as their home language, which represents 16.5% of the population. Dr Aisling Ni Dhiorbhan and Dr Tara Concannon-Gibney, of the DCU Sealbhu Research Centre for the Learning and Teaching of Irish, compiled the report, laying out guidance for the development of a plurilingual approach to Irish teaching. Between 60% and 80% of the 291 children across five schools who took part in the project, which was funded by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaiochta (COGG), had another home language apart from English or Irish. Dr Ni Dhiorbhain said there is an increasing linguistic and cultural diversity in Irelands schools, which includes children who do not have English as their first language. These kids are coming to school with really valuable linguistic knowledge, and we wanted to look at ways to support children to use their home languages in school to affirm this linguistic and cultural diversity, she added. Were very passionate about Gaeilge as well, and we see the potential for Irish as a common second language to provide more opportunities for children to develop language learning skills, and then to use their home languages in class as well. Its emphasised to encourage children who have home languages other than Irish and English, to use their language at school. But we looked at practically, how to do that. We wanted to find a practical way to show teachers how they can support children in using all of their linguistic knowledge. All linguistic knowledge is an asset. When children come to school, a majority of children would have English as a home language, whereas when theyre learning Irish, the majority of children are learning Irish as a second language, so theyre all starting off from the beginning. It shows the potential of Irish to connect all of the other languages. Theres huge cultural advantages to learning Irish, but something that isnt recognised enough are the values of learning Irish because it is an additional language. Youre developing skills of analysing, looking at patterns. If you learn how to do that when youre learning Irish, thats transferable when learning French or Spanish or German. Its the idea, supporting the Gaeilge and also supporting the use of home languages in schools as well. Dr Concannon-Gibney added: We have a curriculum that emphasises and encourages a plurilingual approach to languages, and that has kind of been in the ether for a couple of years now, but teachers need more support in looking at the practicalities of what that actually looks like in a classroom. This project has a professional development aspect to it, so we looked at strategies that might empower teachers to try this out in classrooms. Ireland is such a unique country in the fact that we have English and Irish taught in primary school, and theyre both national languages, as well as being in a diverse society. We felt like we really needed to add to the body of knowledge that is out there. Dr Ni Dhiorbhain said children are discovering rules and patterns of different languages. The multilingual children are our best language learners. Theres such potential to support Irish. The children could see the cognitive advantages for learning Irish, she added. Dr Concannon-Gibney also said it is important to show children whose first language is not Irish or English that their home language has value in the school system. Developing that home language is important because research shows us that the more languages you have, and the more you develop them across, say reading, writing or languages, it actually becomes more and more beneficial to a child, she added. And it really promotes an analytical mindset as well, which is really key in the primary school curriculum. It is important to not just recognise the linguistic diversity that we have in our schools and classrooms and our society, but also to actively encourage it in the classroom, that children get opportunities to use their language for repertoire and using Gaeilge as the driver, was a really positive one. Jazz musician Dr Linley Hamilton has told of the special feeling of being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the New Year Honours. The veteran trumpet player has been a staple of the music scene in Northern Ireland for decades while also forging a career as a university lecturer and broadcaster. He is recognised for services to the music industry in Northern Ireland. The 59-year-old said he was shocked when he received the letter informing him of the honour. He said: I am very, very grateful because I know these things happen because people have put you forward because they think you have made a difference to their careers and lives. I guess, although Im known as a performer, Ive had a diverse career over 40 years. I guess Ive touched different aspects of the community in that time, so Im just very grateful. It is an honour not just for me, but also for anybody Ive worked with and people that I still mentor now. Looking back over his career, he said: Ive been a performer for decades, Ive a number of albums out. I was involved in setting up a youth music charity for about 14 years. I was involved in an agency which allowed original artists to form cover bands to finance their original career. Those are probably some of the big things and then obviously my impact with the jazz career from my connections with the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra, and this very long jazz career which has taken me everywhere. Mr Hamilton, who lectures at Ulster University, said it is important to him to help the next generation of young musicians coming out of Northern Ireland. He said: Being in a performance situation with other bands, bringing younger players through, teaching them to not make the same playing mistakes that you have made, giving them a quicker way to develop. The goal is when they go way past you, that is something Im always excited about. He added: Ive been playing trumpet for 51 years and I guess I havent had time to stop and think. When something like this happens, you stop and think I guess Ive done a fair bit. But its not about that, its about the interaction with the people. It is a special feeling. Despite his decades in the industry, Mr Hamilton said he has no intention of slowing down and has recently fulfilled an ambition by beginning to learn to play piano at a higher level. He is also a director of Magys Farm, a jazz venue at his home in the Dromara hills which hosts intimate gigs by performers from across the world. An unprecedented explosion of conflicts has carved a trail of death and destruction across the breadth of Africafrom Mali near the continents western edge all the way to Somalia on its eastern Horn. Older wars, such as the Islamist uprisings in northern Nigeria and Somalia and the militia warfare in eastern Congo, have intensified dramatically. New power contests between militarized elites in Ethiopia and Sudan are convulsing two of Africas largest and most populous nations. The countries of the western Sahel are now the heart of global jihadism, where regional offshoots of al Qaeda and Islamic State are battling both each other and a group of wobbly military governments. This corridor of conflict stretches across approximately 4,000 miles and encompasses about 10% of the total land mass of sub-Saharan Africa, an area that has doubled in just three years and today is about 10 times the size of the U.K., according to an analysis by political risk consulting firm Verisk Maplecroft. In its wake lies incalculable human sufferingmass displacement, atrocities against civilians and extreme hungeron a continent that is already by far the poorest on the planet. Yet, these extraordinary geopolitical shifts in sub-Saharan Africa have been overshadowed by higher-profile conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. That has led to less attention from global policymakersespecially in the Westgrossly underfunded humanitarian-aid programs and fundamental questions over the futures of hundreds of millions of people. Conflicts in Africa have surged dramatically since 2010 Africa is now experiencing more conflicts than at any point since at least 1946, according to data collected by Uppsala University in Sweden and analyzed by Norways Peace Research Institute Oslo. This year alone, experts at the two institutes have identified 28 state-based conflicts across 16 of the continents 54 countries, more than in any other region in the world and double the count just a decade and a half ago. That tally doesnt include conflicts that dont involve government forces, for instance between different communities, and whose number has also doubled since 2010. There is no single driver for the emergence and escalation of so many different conflicts across a huge and diverse geography. But, experts say, many of the most-affected states were left vulnerable after failing to settle on a strong mode of governance after independencewhether as functioning democracies or established authoritarian systemsor were destabilized during moments of once-in-a-generation political transitions. The former French colonies in the SahelMali, Burkina Faso and Nigerfor decades were democracies in name only, regularly disrupted by military coups. Congos central government in Kinshasa, like Nigerias in Abuja, never managed to exert control over vast territories, opening the door for local and foreign leaders to compete for resources and power, often through violence. In Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmeds efforts to centralize power after ending decades of dominance by the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front in 2018 have sparked a series of rebellions and clashes between regional militias. In Sudan, two powerful generals turned into rivals after ousting longtime strongman Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and, two years later, a civilian government that was supposed to move the country to democracy. One inflection point was the year 2011, when, amid the pro-democracy uprisings of the Arab Spring, militaries from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization intervened in Libya to support rebel forces fighting the countrys dictator Moammar Gadhafi. With Gadhafis death and Libyas descent into chaos, thousands of armed men moved south into Mali, reigniting a Tuareg rebellion against the government in Bamako that coincided with the global expansion of extremist ideologies promoted by al Qaeda and Islamic State. With the Sahel, its clearly a problem of Libyas collapse and the highway of arms and ideology that that creates," says Ken Opalo, a Kenyan academic and associate professor at Georgetown Universitys School of Foreign Service. So you get weak states, lots of guns and young men leaving Libya and ideologies coming all the way from Pakistan. Then everything is on fire." From Mali, the jihadist insurgency spread across porous borders into Burkina Faso and Niger, where new military juntas frustrated with the failure to defeat the militants have kicked out French and other Western troops. It now threatens coastal West African states such as Benin and Ghana. Today, 86% of the territory of Burkina Faso is affected by fighting between jihadists and state forces, according to Verisk Maplecrofts analysis of incidents collected by the U.S.-based nonprofit monitoring service Armed Conflict Location and Event Data. For Nigeria, that number is 44%. Civilians are coming under fire Counting the dead in African conflicts is notoriously difficult. Access to the front lines for journalists and aid groups is often restricted. Phone-service and internet shutdowns that accompanied the wars in Sudan and Ethiopias Tigray region complicate efforts to track specific events and their death tolls. Many people dont die in the fighting itself but from hunger and the breakdown of medical services. For Ethiopia, for instance, experts at the University of Ghent in Belgium have estimated that the two-year war between the government and the TPLF caused the deaths of between 162,000 and 378,000 civilians. Acled, whose analysts scour local news sources and contacts for real-time conflict data, counted fewer than 20,000 war fatalities from the fighting itself. What is clear from the data is that civilians are much more likely to be deliberately targeted in conflicts in Africa than in many wars elsewhere. In Ukraine, for instance, fewer than 7% of violent events Acled has recorded since February 2024 targeted civilianscompared with more than a third for African conflicts. More people are living with violence than ever before, and more people are continuously exposed to armed groups than ever before," says Clionadh Raleigh, the founder of Acled and a professor of Political Violence and Geography at the University of Sussex in the U.K. The consequences go beyond the immediate loss of life. Stalled development, delayed elections and a broader sense of impunity are all reinforced by protracted conflict, Raleigh says. Mass displacement The intensifying conflicts have displaced a record number of Africansmost of them inside their own countries. The continent is now home to nearly half of the worlds internally displaced people, some 32.5 million at the end of 2023. That figure has tripled in just 15 years. Displacement makes civilians, especially women and children, more vulnerable to the collateral effects of war. In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, local officials and health workers estimate that 80% of the women in displacement camps around Goma have been rapedmany of them multiple times. In Sudan, home to the worlds first confirmed famine since 2017, the most hungry are people who have been ripped from their home communities and the jobs or fields that sustained their livelihoods. Not a priority Africas current conflicts havent prompted the outpouring of sympathy in the West that accompanied Russias invasion of Ukraine or the outrage ignited by Israels war in Gaza. There has been no equivalent to the Live Aid concerts motivated by the Ethiopian famine in the 1980s, the protest marches over the genocide in Darfur in the early 2000s or even the #BringBackOurGirls campaign linked to the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from the Nigerian town of Chibok 10 years ago. That lack of popular attention has translated into a dearth of political action to resolve wars in Africa or alleviate the suffering. Africas share of official development aid from rich, mostly Western countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development is at its lowest level since at least 2000, according to an analysis by the nonprofit One Campaign. And while funding for humanitarian aid, which makes up just a small slice of overall development aid, has increased, it hasnt kept pace with expanding needs. The United Nations received just half of the $2.6 billion it said it needed in 2024 to provide humanitarian aid in Congo. Its appeals for Sudan were 64% funded, while Nigeria has received just 57% of its target. It has also meant that diplomatic pressure on the United Arab Emirates, which, according to Wall Street Journal reporting, is supplying weapons and fighters to one of Sudans rival generals, has consistently taken a back seat to Americas desire to maintain the countrys support in the Middle East. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has visited Africa just four times since 2021compared with 43 trips to Europe and 22 to the Middle East. Other powers move in In the absence of the U.S. and other Western governments, other powers have doubled downand often to the detriment of local populations. Russia has sent mercenaries to fight in Mali and the Central African Republic, deployments that, according to rights groups, have resulted in more violence against civilians. While the U.A.E. is supporting Sudans Rapid Support Forces, the countrys military is backed by Egypt, Iran and, most recently, Russia, allowing each side to keep on fighting. In Congo, Rwandas military is fighting alongside the insurgent March 23 Movement in a campaign that has displaced more than two million people. Data from Uppsala University shows a sharp surge in internationalized civil wars in Africa and that those wars with foreign meddling are deadlier than civil conflicts without outside interference. What next? The U.S. remains the leading funder of humanitarian aid in Africa despite the distractions in Europe and the Middle East. Washington contributed 47% to the U.N.s Sudan emergency response plan in 2024 and nearly 70% of that for Congo. Other traditionally large donors, including Germany and the U.K., have already cut their aid budgets amid the crisis in Ukraine and economic problems at home. And many experts expect substantial changes to U.S. foreign and aid policy under the incoming Trump administration, especially toward U.N. agenciesand a further waning of American influence. The U.S. and the U.N. were able to hold a line about what would be considered beyond acceptable for some cases," says Acleds Raleigh. With the Trump administration coming in, that line will disappear. And so the self-interested conflicts that were seeing and the people creating violence across the continent will not be checked." Write to Gabriele Steinhauser at Gabriele.Steinhauser@wsj.com, Andrew Barnett at andrew.barnett@wsj.com and Emma Brown at Emma.Brown@wsj.com From the dining room on the ground floor of Carls Villa" in Copenhagen, guests are treated to views of a charming garden adorned with classical statues. The art nouveau house was built in 1892 by Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of Carlsberg. Since then the brewer, which now uses the house for meetings, has become one of the biggest in the world. Sitting across the table Jacob Aarup-Andersen, Carlsbergs current boss, admits that the companys success is part of a bigger puzzle about Danish businesses. Just last night at dinner, he says, someone asked him how a country so small could produce so many large companies. What is true of Denmark is true of Sweden, Norway and Finland. The Nordic region accounts for about 1% of the worlds GDP and 0.3% of its population. Yet it has produced an impressive list of corporate giants. Lego is the planets biggest toymaker by revenue; IKEA is its biggest maker of furniture (and, thanks to Swedish meatballs, its sixth-largest restaurant chain). The Nordics are home to leading manufacturers of everything from industrial machinery (Atlas Copco) and telecoms equipment (Nokia and Ericsson) to seatbelts (Autoliv) and lifts (KONE). The region has also produced the worlds biggest music-streaming company (Spotify) and its largest buy-now-pay-later provider (Klarna). Novo Nordisk, a Danish pioneer in weight-loss drugs, is Europes most-valuable company, even after its shares slumped in December in response to disappointing trial results for a new drug. View Full Image Chart: The Economist Nordic firms have outperformed those from the rest of Europe over the past decade. In all four countries, listed non-financial firms have generated greater shareholder returns than the European average over the past ten years (see chart 1). Today Nordic firms make up about 13% of the MSCI Europe, an index of the continents most-valuable companies, up from 10% five years ago. That is now about the same share as German firms. Nordic companies also stack up well against global peers in the same sectors. We compared the regions 20 most-valuable listed companies with their main overseas rivals on a number of measures. On average they generated operating margins that were seven percentage points higher than the median of their peer set in 2023, with returns on invested capital five percentage points higher. Debt relative to operating profits (before depreciation and amortisation) was also lower for 14 of the 20 companies we examined when compared with their rivals. Annual sales growth was about on par with the competition. Of course, not every Nordic business has been a success. Northvolt, a battery-maker, recently collapsed into bankruptcy. Nokias handset business was crushed by the iPhone. Moreover, many Nordic companies have been lucky. The region is blessed with access to vast natural resources, including timber, iron ore andparticularly in Norwayoil and gas. Even so, the outperformance of Nordic companies is striking. What explains their success? One factor is that Nordic businessmen, like their Viking ancestors, are foreign adventurers. Our smallness is a blessing in the sense that it makes the international outlook obligatory," says Mr Aarup-Andersen. Among the Nordics ten most-valuable companies for which data are available, the median share of revenues generated at home is just 2%, compared with 12% for their counterparts in the rest of Europe and 46% for those in America. Anders Boyer, chief financial officer of Pandora, the worlds largest jewellery-maker by volume, says that his firm went from a single store in Copenhagen to a global operation in seven or eight years. Today Denmark accounts for 1% of sales. View Full Image Chart: The Economist A second factor is that Nordic firms have long been enthusiastic adopters of technology. Shortly after the second world war Legos founder changed the toymakers material of choice from wood after playing with a new-fangled plastic-moulding machine (it cost a years worth of sales). Today that spirit persists. Data from Eurostat, a statistics agency, show that 45% of firms in the European Union that employ more than ten people pay for cloud-computing services. The average across the four Nordic countries, which top the ranking, is 73% (see chart 2). The Nordic fervour for technology is also visible in its thriving startup scene. Among European cities, only London, Paris and Berlin attract more venture-capital funding than Stockholm, which has far fewer people. Helsinki is awash with gaming firms, including Rovio, maker of Angry Birds", and Supercell, creator of Clash of the Clans". Nordic entrepreneurs these days may find it less daunting to take risks knowing that, should they fail, they will have access to generous unemployment benefits and well-functioning public health-care and education systems. Government policy more broadly is a third factor underpinning the success of Nordic firms. Although lofty personal-tax rates fund generous welfare systems across the Nordics, the rate on company profits is about the same as in America. Each year the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think-tank in Washington, compiles an index of the economic freedom of countries, which captures things like how open markets are, using measures such as tariff rates, and how freely businesses can operate, by assessing the quality of regulation. Denmark, Sweden and Norway all make the top ten. In Denmark in particular hiring and firing workers is easier than elsewhere in Europe. The Danish governments embrace of digitisation has also made it easier to do business in the country. As Vincent Clerc, the boss of Maersk, a Danish shipping giant, points out, You can get a VAT number within a day." In France that can take months. A fourth factor in Nordic outperformance is patient shareholders. According to McKinsey, a consultancy, four-fifths of large Nordic companies have long-term ownership, compared with three-fifths in Europe and only a fifth in America. Business dynasties play a prominent role in the region. Maersk and Lego are still controlled, respectively, by the founding Moller and Kristiansen families, though both firms are run day-to-day by outsiders. In Sweden the Wallenbergs, whose fortune originated in banking, own large stakes in various companies, including Atlas Copco and Ericsson. Other big Nordic firms, including Carlsberg and Novo Nordisk, are controlled by non-profit foundations. Such arrangements have prevented Nordic companies being snapped up by foreign firms, giving them more time to grow. They have also made it easier for companies to invest in their long-term success. McKinsey reckons that four-fifths of listed Nordic companies spend more on research and development than their rivals do elsewhere in the West. Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, Novo Nordisks boss, has said that his main focus is how the company will look in ten to 20 years. Grab your helmets That is just as well, because the Nordic business model may come under strain in the years ahead. Given their reliance on operations abroad, Nordic companies are particularly exposed to choppier geopolitical waters. Some have already been affected. In 2023 Carlsbergs business in Russia was seized by the countrys government and placed under temporary management". In December the brewer agreed to sell the operation to two local employees at a steep discount. Maersk has had boats and container terminals hit by Houthi missiles in the Red Sea, forcing its ships to avoid the Suez Canal, adding time and expense. Doing business abroad is set to become harder still during Donald Trumps second term. On the campaign trail the president-elect vowed to slap a 10% import tariff on all countries. The threat may not materialisesince the election Mr Trump has focused his ire on Mexico, Canada and Chinabut a more sceptical view of trade is certain to permeate American policymaking. That could be a problem; a third of the sales of the ten most-valuable Nordic companies comes from America. Handling all this will require one last characteristic of Nordic companies that bosses like to bring up. Niels Christiansen, chief executive of Lego, invokes Charles Darwin in his assessment of why the regions firms do so well. Its not necessarily the strongest that survives," but the one that will adapt to changes." As global businesses prepare for Mr Trump to return to the White House, those words are wiser than ever. Digital diaries and apps are convenient but theres something about making a list with pen and paper that makes you focus on a task. And then there's the tangible satisfaction of ticking off a job well done. Whether youre jotting down ideas, writing reminders, making to-do lists, tracking meetings or planning meals for the family, committing to paper is a good way to break tasks down into manageable parts and ease stress. And to keep track of those tasks, as we move towards 2025, it's time to invest in a good planner or diary. There are a few things to keep in mind before you pick a plannerdont get swayed by the cutesy covers and earnest affirmations, theyre really not going to help you with day-to-day organisation. To start with, check the paper insideyou dont want blots and splodges marring your day. Layout is the other thing to decide ondo you need a daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly planner? In general, daily planners that have a page for each day are best suited for those of us with lots of daily tasks. Planners also come in a range of sizes, so pick what works best for you. If you commute for meetings or travel a lot, a compact, light, softcover one is best. Heavier hardback planners are great if youre at your desk most of the time. Pocket diaries are good if youre only listing meetings and things to do. Overall, if you want to carry just one notebook-diary that combines scheduling with note-taking and general planning, a softcover A5 diary is what you needand weve picked out a selection for you. View Full Image Fabriano Daily Diary 2025 Ispira Fabriano Daily Diary 2025 Ispira Made from fine yet durable paper, this stylish and dependable diary comes in two sizes and six colour combinations. Theres a lined page for every day of the week, and it is light enough to travel with. Theres a practical back pocket in which you can tuck tickets, photos, notes or business cards, and a ribbon bookmark to help you keep your place. For a more playful iteration, check out the Diary Flock, which has a cover with velvet polka dots that give it a three-dimensional effect. Both also have a weekly option, which means you could combine the fun Flock page-a-week planner with the monotone daily Ispira or vice versa. (Available on Fabriano Boutique website, hardcover, 2,200) View Full Image Hobonichi Techo 2025 English Planner Book Hobonichi Techo 2025 English Planner Book The compact Hobonichi Techo (techo is Japanese for planner) has a cult following around the world, and now ships to India as well. Its Tomoe River paper is light yet durable, and it comes with plenty of writing space along with a weekly and yearly calendar. The graph paper is a departure from the usual lines and is light enough to guide your writing while not getting in the way of your work. The overall colour scheme on the inside is a classy grey and red, and the daily pages comes with a quote from Japanese philosophy. The A6 diary comes with a black leatherlike cover but you can brighten it up by pairing it with any of the other coverscactus flower green to cherry-blossom pinkavailable on the website. (Available on Hobonichi Techo website, softcover, 2,150) View Full Image Marg 2025 Planner Marg 2025 Planner Each month starts with a work of art based on the years theme, and a honeycomb-like calendar, followed by about five pages. Strictly speaking, this is more a notebook than a planner, since the lined pages are undated, making it ideal for long-term goal-setting. The theme for 2025 is Take a Seatrather apt since diary devotees are likely to spend most of their lives in that positionand feature contemporary and past art about sitting. And if youre not the kind to save your diaries after the year is done, the art inserts can later be cut out to create postcards or be framed as miniatures. (Available on the Marg website, softcover, 550) View Full Image Bombay Lettering 2025 Planner Bombay Lettering 2025 Planner This compact, useable diary works for daily or weekly planning as well as doodling and note-taking. With ruled as well as blank pages and a vision board section, theres plenty you can do to customize it for yourself. The inspirational inserts (let the beauty of what you love be what you do; a new era of me) are irritatingly trite but layout itself is practical and the paper a lovely shade of ivory with the right gauge for a fountain pen, biro or roller ball. It comes in three colours (blush, sage and charcoal) along with a brass book mark, three sets of stickers with inspirational messaging (to remind you to hydrate, love or take it easy), post-its and three magnetic bookmarks. (Available online, hardcover, 1,999) Also read: A 2024 smartphone report card View Full Image Midoris MD Notebook Diary MD Notebook Diary Best known for their Travellers Notebooks, Midoris MD Notebook Diary is a versatile, light one that includes an annual calendar, a monthly schedule, lined pages for notes and blank pages for doodles. Its designed for both productivity and creativity as every page has enough space to allow you to write, stick notes or post-it reminders, add to-do lists, sketch or draw ideas as well as make everyday plans. It opens flat, which means the two-spread page can become a single canvas, and comes in three sizes. Its an unassuming-looking white notebookthread-stitched binding and a string bookmarkbut the paper is smooth and fine yet tough and the finish subtle yet beautiful. Typically subtle and functional Japanese design. (Available in stores and online, softcover, 1100) View Full Image The Legacy of Guru Dutt: 2025 Diary The Legacy of Guru Dutt: 2025 Diary This might not be the most functional diary out there, but Nasreen Munni Kabirs tribute to celebrated filmmaker Guru Duttby making sure you learn a factoid about him every day of 2025, his centenary yearis a keepsake. Friends, colleagues and family members remember Dutts best and worst moments, quirks of personality and mercurial nature, candidly sharing anecdotes and photos with Kabir. These are laid out alongside the pages of a daily planner, helping you make memories while remembering a great director. (Available online and in stores, softcover, 599) Also read: All the wellness tech worth taking note of in 2025 PPFAS Asset Management Company, which runs Indias largest actively run mutual fund scheme, held its recent annual unitholders meeting. Its flagship Flexicap fund has registered a stellar five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26%. But despite its success, the fund house is not without its share of scrutiny. During the annual meet, Rajeev Thakkar, chief investment officer of PPFAS, along with the fund management team, addressed investor questionswhether at the stock level, sector level, or about the overall strategy and operations of the fund house. Here are five key takeaways for investors from the annual meeting. Focus on long-term returns over short-term Often, investors are swayed by recent performance, especially during bull markets. To address this common pitfall, Thakkar began the annual general meeting with a road trip analogy. Imagine a road trip from Mumbai to Pune, Delhi to Shimla, or Bengaluru to Mysuru. For such a journey, you would prioritize safetychoosing a vehicle equipped with airbags and other safety features, driven by an experienced driver who follows traffic rules. On winding hilly roads or narrow lanes, you would expect the driver to slow down rather than speed recklessly. If the passengers need a coffee or bio break, youd want the driver to stop. Similarly, in investing, when valuations are stretched or opportunities are scarce, investors would want a fund manager who knows when to slow down and adopt a defensive approach. Investing, like a road trip, isnt about racing to the destinationits about navigating the journey safely and prudently. If you are passing through the Khandala and Lonavala ghats, you would expect the vehicle to go slowly. You do not expect the driver to drive at 150 km/h on winding roads, narrow lanes, or pothole-filled stretches," Thakkar said. Why is it that when it comes to our investment journeys, the last six months or 12 months matter so much? The entire chatter revolves around how the fund has performed in the last six months, why theres cash in the portfolio, why allocations to small or mid-caps are at certain levels. Why dont we look at the bigger picture?" In investments, its critical to assess factors beyond short-term returns, Thakkar emphasized. Key takeaway: investors should focus on the journey, not just the immediate milestones, and trust in a thoughtful, disciplined approach for long-term success. View Full Image (Mint Graphics) Outsized valuations Thakkar expressed his concerns about current market valuations and optimistic investor behaviour. I am patriotic; I am optimistic about Indias prospects in the future. No dispute there. But then people take it one step forward, saying, as Indias GDP grows, people will have a lot more discretionary income to spend, and because of that, certain companies, certain sectors in India deserve this outsized valuation premium," he said. To illustrate his point, Thakkar highlighted how the consumption growth story led to inflated valuations for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies such as Hindustan Unilever Ltd, Nestle, Dabur, and Marico, which were bid up to 50100 times their earnings. Later, this optimism extended to direct-to-consumer brands despite the challenges of increased competition and margin pressures. Thakkar also addressed the enthusiasm around big-box retailers and their private-label businesses. ... People got very excited about big-box retailersthe organized retailers like JioMart, Star Bazaar, D-Mart, More, and Vishal Mega Mart. People said these players would gain because they have private labels, which enable extra margins. But if private labels gain, its again negative for FMCG and B2C companies," he explained. Then came quick commerce10-minute grocery delivery. We said that is also very exciting. So we bid up Zomato (which is listed), Swiggy, Zepto, Amazon, Flipkart, Big Basketvarious players entering the space," Thakkar added. He also expressed scepticism about whether all these players could succeed together, given the heightened competitive dynamics. While optimism drives valuations, he emphasized the need for a balanced view that accounts for competitive pressures and sectoral challenges. The scepticism aligns with Thakkars broader concerns about the markets optimism, highlighting that high valuations in such sectors might not fully account for competitive dynamics and sustainability. Key takeaway: Thakkar believes current market behaviour is overly optimistic, with valuations not fully reflecting the realities of increased competition and potential challenges ahead. View Full Image (Mint Graphics) Why not buy more of what you own? During the meeting, a participant asked why PPFAS doesnt increase allocation to existing holdings if it has cash. Lets say we like private sector banks. Can we have the entire portfolio consisting of private sector banks? The answer is no. You have to consider the portfolio weightage you want to give to individual companies. Just because you have cash, you wont keep buying more and more of what you already own," Thakkar explained. Secondly, we don't want to be overly concentrated in any one sector or theme. We have to be selective in our investments and find the right balance rather than just deploying cash for the sake of it." Thakkar elaborated with historical examples. If PPFAS Mutual Fund existed in 1990, and we were not owning ACC at 10,000, we would be massively underperforming the market. Similarly, in December 1999, if we werent owning K-10 stocks, we would have underperformed. Or in December 2007, not owning infra and real estate companies caused underperformance in our PMS (portfolio management services) avatar." The term K10 stocks refers to a group of stocks that were associated with the infamous stock market operator Ketan Parekh during the late 1990s and early 2000s in India. These stocks were heavily manipulated by Parekh and his network, leading to a speculative bubble. Key takeaway: Its not about just buying more of what we already own but carefully considering diversification and the potential impact on long-term performance. Also read | How an obscure PPFAS morphed into Indias Berkshire Hathaway Does the AUM of a fund matter? To explain the significance of a funds assets under management, Thakkar said that with Indias economy expanding and its markets becoming more sophisticated, the opportunities available for large funds like PPFAS to invest effectively had also increased. Thakkar also addressed the perception of some investors that PPFAS Flexicaps large-cap orientation limits its ability to capitalize on higher growth opportunities in mid-cap and small-cap stocks. Large-caps are currently cheaper than mid- and small-caps. Additionally, the notion that small-caps will always grow faster than large-caps is flawed," he said, adding that a disciplined value investing strategy has allowed PPFAS to maintain its performance while minimizing unnecessary risks. Key takeaway: Indias expanding and maturing equity market provides ample opportunities for large funds to generate strong returns while managing risks effectively. Also read | Quant Mutual Fund: The untold story behind Sandeep Tandons rise Is PPFASs cash holding a concern? Addressing concerns about cash holdings, Thakkar explained: Hypothetically, if equity gives us a 12% return, then instead of 12%, lets say we will get 7.5%. On that 20% cash, the difference is 4.5% for one year. But even if a few stocks go up or down by 5-15%, it gives us an opportunity. Its not that we are committed to staying in cash for one year. Anytime theres an opportunity, we can sell money market securities and deploy in equity." He clarified that the cash holdings were a strategic decision and not a sign of bearishness. We are 80% invested. You could say we are actually 80% bullish. Its not that I have any insight into an impending market crash. Whatever I know is already in the public domain." Key takeaway: Sometimes cash holdings may be a wise way to manage risk rather than a reflection of pessimism. Also read | Market in limbo: May wait for direction till February With almost half the worlds population going to the polls, 2024 was dubbed a super election year, leading many experts to warn of a coming flood of political disinformation. After all, generative artificial intelligence has made it possible for anyone, anywhere, to produce lifelike deepfake" images and videos. Never have anti-democratic bad actors had such powerful tools for undermining free and fair elections. Yet while AI-augmented disinformation has clearly proliferated online, it did not have a substantial destabilizing impact on democracy in 2024. The reason is not entirely clear. Perhaps social-media users have become more discerning, while fact-checkers and digital platforms have done a better job of curtailing the spread of falsehoodswith Elon Musks X (formerly Twitter) being an obvious exception. To be sure, in the US presidential election, both sides accused the other of trying to suppress free speech and democracy. According to the leading US fact-checking site Politifact, both campaigns issued misleading or false statements, though the overwhelming majority came from Donald Trump. Nonetheless, the worst predictions about AI disrupting the democratic process were not borne out. More broadly, the results of the years elections around the world were a mixed bag, but liberal and pluralist parties and candidates generally exceeded expectations. In our book Spin Dictators, Daniel Treisman and I point out that most people worldwide (or at least the majority of respondents to the World Values Survey and other similar polls) favour democracy over any alternative model of governance. That is why political leaders tend to cater to this preference by holding elections and allowing some independent media. While elections in many countries are neither free nor fair, the fact that even non-democratic leaders choose to hold them demonstrates the popularity of voting. By the same token, a strong performance for pro-democratic forces should be considered the norm, not the exception. But hasnt digital media corroded democratic discourse? In 2019, the New York University social psychologist Jonathan Haidt and the essayist Tobias Rose-Stockwell published an influential article titled The Dark Psychology of Social Networks, which warned that the leading social-media platforms ad-based business model was promoting attention-grabbing content. Since truth can seem mundane compared with sensationalist falsehood, ad-based platforms have a propensity to fuel political disinformation and polarization. Meanwhile, many other scholars have linked this model to the rise of false information on social media in the 2010s, and to its use by non-democratic actors. But technology companies have taken some steps to address this problem. To mitigate the reputational costs of being leading disseminators of disinformation, most social-media platforms established trust and safety" departments, invested in content moderation, and engaged in self-regulation. They trained algorithms to identify misinformation (material that is simply inaccurate) and disinformation (deliberately inaccurate material that is meant to mislead), and referred flagged posts to certified human fact-checkers. Measures effective Randomized controlled trials from 2020 indicate that these measures may have been effective. While a 2018 study found that Facebook usage led to political polarization and reduced well-being, similar studies in 2020 found no such effects or only minor ones. Other research has examined the way people process and share false news. When evaluating partisan messages publicly, people are more likely to support their partys stance, possibly to signal loyalty or to influence others. But when asked privately and offered an incentive to assess a messages truthfulness, partisans are more likely to identify the facts correctly and to refrain from sharing such posts. While social-media platforms have indeed spread misinformationsome of which has really been persuasivethe public launch of generative AI platforms raised new and serious concerns. AI can now produce highly convincing audio and video forgeries that are all but impossible to distinguish from real footage. Given that this technology is accessible to everyone, it is understandable that many would worry about the implications for elections. Yet so far, the dog has barked, not bitten. While Russia and other hostile state and private actors pursued various disinformation and election-interference strategies in the US and elsewhere, there is no substantial evidence that generative AI or deepfakes played a pivotal role in determining any outcomes. This may be because political operatives have yet to master the technologys use, or because we have yet to study its impact thoroughly. But another possibility is that the experience of the 2010s taught social-media users to be more wary of what they encounter online. We certainly need more research but, in the meantime, we can be a little less fearful of what AI will mean for public discourse and democratic governance. Sergei Guriev is Dean and Professor of Economics at the London Business School. He is the co-author (with Daniel Treisman) of Spin Dictators: The Changing Face of Tyranny in the 21st Century (Princeton University Press, 2022). Project Syndicate, 2024. www.project-syndicate.org Adani Enterprises Ltd is set to sell its entire 44% stake in Adani Wilmar Ltd, its joint venture with the Singapore-based food processing company Wilmar International. Estimated to be worth some $2 billion, the equity sale will take place in two steps, with its proceeds expected to be invested in the groups core infrastructure" businesses. Lence Pte, a unit of Wilmar International, will buy 31% of Adani Wilmars shares held by Adani Commodities, a unit of Adani Enterprises, which will offload its own 13% holding. As a consumer-facing business, Adani Wilmar is best known for its Fortune brand of edible oils that was extended to packaged household staples like rice and flour. With this exit, though, Adani seems to have withdrawn from the food processing sector. Management theorists often advocate that business groups should focus on fields of core competence" and not spread their resources too thin by over-diversifying. Shares of Adani Enterprises shot up 7.7% on Monday, an indication of investors taking the divestment as a good move. Given Indias recent failure to ease rigidities in its farm sector, packaged food prospects may also have dimmed lately. In 1903, Mark Twain wrote that It takes a thousand men to invent a telegraph, or a steam engine, or a phonograph, or a photograph, or a telephone or any other important thing." This observation still mostly holds true. The invention of artificial intelligence required decades of work by thousands of scientists, engineers, and industry leaders. It will require many more men and women to develop the technology in the years ahead. As the march of AI accelerates, a new requirement has become apparent: the next breakthroughs will consume colossal quantities of energy. AI guzzles electricitya single ChatGPT query requires ten times as much as a conventional web search. As AI usage increases, its energy requirements will rise, and if demand outstrips supply, the technologys development will be strangled. The data centres that underpin AI development at scalepowering GPT-4, Gemini, and other frontier modelsneed around-the-clock access to power. They already account for roughly 3% of annual US electricity consumption, and this share is expected to more than double in the next five to ten years. More broadly, AIs electricity usage is projected to increase from four terawatt-hours in 2023 to 93 TWh in 2030more than Washington State used in 2022. And thats a conservative estimate; AI could consume this much power as early as 2025. Though the dates may vary, the direction is clear: demand for energy will skyrocket. Securing sufficient access to electricity thus has become a top priority for AI companies. But while they are doing what they can, they will not succeed without government help. Building a sustainable supply of power to drive the AI revolution is in Americas interest, and it will also benefit other countries by delivering immense improvements in health care, education, science, national security, and other critical sectors. To allow AIs development to taper off because of insufficient energy supplies would be an act of national self-harm. With future needs already apparent, the US government must get ahead of the challenge now, while it can. By the time data centres energy demands double, our supply of energy should have at least doubled, too. Green-lighting the revolution A study by researchers at Princeton University finds that for the United States to decarbonize its economy by 2050, it may need to triple its electricity-transmission systems capacity. Much of this can be done domestically. We can build data centres in the US, secure supply chains for energy technologies, and invest in modernizing our energy infrastructure. To that end, the government can unleash private-sector development by simplifying and accelerating siting and permitting. Complicated, decades-long approval processes are a drag on the transition to clean energy, with damaging consequences for AI development as well. Building a new transmission line in the USfrom planning and permitting to land acquisition and constructioncurrently takes an average of 10 years. That must change. We must also take another look at nuclear energy, either by restarting existing plants already connected to the grid, or by building the next generation of smaller, safer, and more efficient reactors. Here, too, reforming regulations, which were written for 1970s technology, is vital to accelerating innovation and deployment. When Georgias Vogtle 3 plant came online in 2023, it was the first new reactor design to be approved in the nearly 50-year history of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. That pace is not sustainable in an energy-hungry AI economy. The US must tap every safe, clean, and reliable energy source that it can. A more agile regulatory regime would reflect the reality that not all reactor designs are alike, and that not all review processes should be identical. For example, experts have proposed a more timely review of nuclear projects that reuse brownfield sitesallowing for a smooth transition from coal to nuclear projects. While the benefits of nuclear power are well known, US energy innovation should also focus on fusion energy, the process that powers the sun. Fusion generators use the immense energy released when light atomic nuclei combine to form heavier ones, making it a potentially abundant, reliable, and clean power source. In 2022, scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California achieved the milestone of fusion ignition, producing more energy from a fusion experiment than was required to drive it. If the US can develop fusion power at scale, AIs electricity demands can easily be met. Doing so will require substantial investment and new partnerships between startups and national laboratories to advance concept designs and plan the path to commercialization. But while new and existing technologies can start to bridge the gap, the US must also seek energy abroad. AI allies Looking overseas poses a different set of challenges. While some regionssuch as the Middle Eastare endowed with vast stores of reliable, low-cost energy, relying on these resources involves geostrategic and national-security trade-offs. It is no good building a data centre abroad to benefit from low-cost energy, only to find that its contents have been compromised by hostile foreign-intelligence services; that it is being used by third-party vendors as a means of avoiding export controls; that its servers are being used to exert leverage over the US; or that it is being used in ways that violate privacy. AI technology is so valuable, and so critical to US national security, that potential partner countries can only be those that share common interests and values with the US, and which have formidable defenses to safeguard their AI systems. These risks can be managed, but doing so will require deliberate and careful diplomacy and technical engagement with our allies in the Gulf. Of course, deepening our energy partnerships with European countries poses fewer national-security or reputational concerns; but their energy is often too expensive. In 2023, for example, power in European countries cost twice as much as in the US. In fact, energy is so expensive by international standards that virtually all European AI models are being trained abroad, often in the US. Fortunately, other US partners offer possible solutions. Japan maintains over 20 gigawatts of idled nuclear capacity, more than enough for even the largest projected computer clusters. And closer to home, Canada offers the prospect of abundant hydropower, which is both renewable and reliable. Both options offer short-term, clean solutions from close American allies. Advanced AI is both the objective and part of the solution. AI systems see things that humans do not, as DeepMind demonstrated when it successfully reduced energy use for data-centre cooling by up to 40%. We must take advantage of these capabilities. AIs should be deployed to identify and develop new ways to improve data centres efficiency and realize fusion energys potential. Scientists at the National Fusion Facility in San Diego have already used reinforcement learning to prevent instability and disruption to the complex fusion process. The path to AI has been marked by unexpected achievements and paradigm shifts. The task now is to harness the power needed to propel this new era of innovation. Eric Schmidt, a former CEO and chair of Google/Alphabet, is Chair of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence. Project Syndicate, 2024. www.project-syndicate.org You want to know the secret to surviving air travel?" the man sitting next to Bruce Willis on the plane asks in Die Hard", a film from 1988. After you get to where youre going, take off your shoes and your socks, then you walk around on the rug barefoot and make fists with your toes." Anyone who has flown across longitudes will be familiar with the havoc air travel plays on your circadian rhythms, causing you to jolt awake at four in the morning and tape your eyes open at four in the afternoon to keep from nodding off. Those in jobs that require them regularly to traverse the globe may find their brains muddled for days after every trip, leaving them tired, disoriented and at elevated risk of irate outbursts. Less clear is what can be done about it. Dubious advice abounds, from eating chocolate for breakfast and taping plant seeds behind your ears to swallowing Viagra (though a study in 2007 did show that the little blue pill" helped rodents to overcome jet lag faster). Does anything really help? There are, unfortunately, no miracle cures for jet lag, despite an obvious market for one. Nevertheless, your guest Bartleby has a few tips you might find useful. If you can, be under the age of 25, though that trick may not work indefinitely. When heading from west to east, take a melatonin tablet and go to bed early for a few nights before you travel (you will almost certainly ignore this advice, as your columnist usually does); when travelling the other way, go to bed a few hours later (much more fun). When you arrive, coffee or an equally caffeinated beverage will be essential. Remember, though, that there are limits: you may want to stop when your eye begins to twitch, for example. Drink plenty of water, too, as you will be desiccated from your flight. If it is daytime when you land, go for a stroll and soak up some sunlight to get those melatonin levels down. The fresh air will also help clear your head. If there is a pool or the sea nearby, head there for a swim. If you are travelling for business, all this is best done on company time. The most important question, though, is what to do on the plane journeys to and from your destination. When you board, it is recommended that you turn left, head straight for a business- or first-class seat, wrap yourself in its superior blanket and raise your privacy screen. If you do not have a ticket to sit with the high-flyers it may still be worth a shot. Confidence is of the essence. If, however, you are escorted back to your allotted position with the common folk, you will need a plan to put yourself to sleep at the right time to reset your body clock. Try another of those melatonin tablets or maybe some CBD oil. If you need something stronger, an antihistamine or prescription hypnotic should do the trick (and may come in handy in the days following your journey). Although such remedies should not be taken on a regular basis, they are to be embraced by those travelling long distances. And dont forget your eye mask, earplugs and neck pillow. Nobody wants jet lag to ruin their business trip or the days after they return. Neither, though, should you suffer excessively through your flight. Some suggest that fasting on a plane trip can lessen the effects of jet lag. That sounds to your columnist like a unique form of torture, no matter how dubious the quality of the food on offer may be (there are, after all, plenty of snacks to be had). Better instead to try to enjoy your time on the plane and release a few endorphins. Flying has its hassles, but it also has its perks, not least of which is the chance to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy a few hours of respite from your responsibilities. A Bloody Mary before lunch followed by an episode or three of The White Lotus" can turn a tiresome trip into a rare indulgence in a busy schedule. Ignore the in-flight Wi-Fi. Ultimately, jet lag can be mitigated, but only to a degree. It is an inconvenient consequence of the very convenient fact that modern travellers can fly across multiple time zones in a matter of hours. Explorers who once crossed great distances by foot, boat or camel did not have to deal with jet lag, yet it is doubtful they would have chosen their mode of transport over an Airbus A380. And after a few days even the most severe case of jet lag will ease and be forgotten. So do your best to relish the journey, despite its side-effects. And feel free to ignore any advice the passenger next to you might want to impart. Subscribers to The Economist can sign up to our new Opinion newsletter, which brings together the best of our leaders, columns, guest essays and reader correspondence. 2024, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com Householders are eagerly awaiting a number of Budget 2025 measures to take effect in their pocket, including two 125 energy credits which will reduce electricity and gas bills across the country. The credits were announced as part of the Budget in early October 2024 and continue a trend over the last few years as the Government aims to address the cost of living crisis and rising energy bills in particular. Every billpayer in the country will receive the energy credits with no means tests and the Government have given an update on when the second one might land on bills after the first came off in Nocember Citizens Information says: "The energy credit will be paid in two instalments of 125. The second will be made in the new year. The Government is aiming for the first 125 to come off bills in November with the second off the first bill in January. READ NEXT: Huge spike in rats in Irish houses with two counties plagued in particular The Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is overseeing the scheme. People don't need to do anything to receive the credits and they will be automatically deducted from your bill at source. The Citizens Information also issued a warning recently over a scam related to the energy credits, advising people to ignore rogue texts. "A scam alert has been issued to warn people about receiving text messages that tells you to click on a link to claim an energy credit. These texts link to a site that looks like gov.ie," a statement read. "The Government is not offering any such scheme and people are warned not to click on the link or enter any personal details." Heroic actions of Fire Service hailed Fire Service personnel, who assisted two injured men in a large fire at a Longford town takeaway and quickly cleared the premises have been hailed as 'heroes'. The blaze occured at Pizza Max in the Ardrum Court area shortly after 1pm on Monday, September 23 and restaurant worker Quddus Ur Rehman sustained burns to his head, arm and leg. A second man, an onlooker who rushed in off the street to help put the fire out was taken to the hospital for burn injuries to his arm. Both injured men, Pakistani-born Mr Ur Rehman, whose brother owns the takeaway, and the second man were treated at the scene by ambulance personnel for minor burns and then brought to hospital. As the fire spread, the takeaway was engulfed in flames and fire service personnel, who arrived minutes later, immediately evacuated the building. An investigation is taking place to ascertain what caused the blaze including the possibility that it may have been an electrical fault. It is understood an onlooker rushed inside and attempted to put water on the fire after it erupted but this led to the fire intensifying and he was the second man hospitalised with burns to his arm. Shabban Naz, who runs Longford Halal Meats and is a close friend of the Ur Rehman family, said the fire brigade arrived within minutes and responded very efficiently. She insisted that the actions of the Longford Fire Brigade was vitally important as the consequences could have been far worse. "I was in my shop and I saw the fire start and it went up so fast," she said. "They reacted very well and they got here very quickly, they are heroes actually, they are very nice. Culture Night in Longford The annual celebration of arts and creativity in Longford - Culture Night - saw events being hosted all across the county. Culture Night the exploration of cultural activities has events slated in for every cultural and heritage discipline. The night encompasses everything from small events in homes, to large outdoors, public spaces or community venues. All events under the banner of Culture Night are free to the public. This year Longford's programme spans from music to painting, language to literature. Punk rock to piano music, photography to drama, and reaching from Ballymahon to Granard there are events that encompass all aspects of what culture means. 30 local pubs closed Thirty one local pubs have closed in County Longford have closed over the past two decades., a new report revealed. Gerry Lynn of the Longford Vintner's Association is not surprised by the figures, published by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI), which according to him is a sign of the times. There's many different things at play in regards to the way lifestyle has changed and our younger population and their drinking culture and everything like that. Those factors all have a major effect. The other thing is cost of running a business or a small business in rural Ireland, he said. Mr Lynn runs the Sportsman Inn in Edgeworthstown. At one stage we had 18 pubs here in Edgeworthstown. We're down to three at the moment, three that are open, He explained. Probe into Longford brothel deals A growing number of ringleaders in the sex workers industry and landlords are negotiating deals on a Longford town WhatsApp group chat to use rental properties as brothels. As the social problem intensifies, the Longford Leader has learned that there are currently at least four brothels in town centre locations with nine women and two transgender women, listed on the Escort Ireland website offering sexual services. It is understood Gardai are monitoring several suspected ringleaders and one brothel is located within a one minute walk of a local school in a highly visible location. A senior Garda source said there is a WhatsApp group involving people working as independent escorts and people willing to rent out properties to them. The source explained the landlords are facilitating the properties for the sex workers. At least 12 sex workers are operating out of the multitude of premises on a weekly basis and clients are able to make bookings from the early afternoon in highly visible locations. The sex workers listed on the Escort Ireland website are changed frequently with only three of the same individuals who advertised their 'services' on Friday still being featured on Monday. Ten of the individuals offer the '69' position, while an expert masseuse offers a happy ending with prices ranging from 80 for 30 minutes up to 200 per hour. Selling sex is not a crime following the 2017 Sexual Offences Act, however, it is against the law to advertise such services. The 2017 Sexual Offences Act was introduced with a focus on moving the burden of criminality away from those selling sexual services and onto the individuals purchasing them. Natalie OReilly, a Domestic Violence Service Co-Ordinator at Longford Womens Link, said there is more thought and planning now put into selling sex and it is 'getting worse'. She said the sex workers, who are often coerced and manipulated, are 'hiding in plain sight'. LWL offer a confidential service and they offer individual women domestic violence support, counselling, and they offer support for migrant women. St Christopher's launch St Christopher's new hub catering for school leavers to help them transition into adult life after leaving the comfort of the school environment was officially opened in October by Minister of State for Disabilities Anne Rabbitte. The new services hub will be a centre for activity and ideas that will be dedicated to the development of young adults with disabilities. Minister Rabbitte remarked, I think it's important that we meet the needs of everybody at everybody's own level. Longford N63 disruption Over 60 Longford Businesses along the N63 Athlone Road have expressed their fears and disquiet over the potential disruption they may be facing when junction realignment and street improvement works underway. The plans include a footpath and cycle track from the railway bridge Townparks Industrial Estate and the Royal Canal at Cartrongeeragh. Cllr Peggy Nolan said Councillors had recieved an email from 60 businesses directly affected by the proposed works. Nobody wants to stop progress, said Cllr Nolan, but I would ask that the road directorate would deal directly with the people who are asking to be heard. Regeneration a big priority for Harris Taoiseach Simon Harris visited County Longford prior to the General Election and vowed to prioritise the regeneration of Longford Town, education and additional Gardai. The Fine Gael leader, who was on the campaign trail in the Midlands and west alongside Senator Micheal Carrigy, was given a warm welcome by staff and pupils at Templemichael College. Mr Harris told the students during an assembly that they could do anything they put their minds to in their future careers. Longford's multi-million euro regeneration blueprint is progressing with plans being developed for the former military barracks and moving the library there is one possible option. Longford town is also set to benefit from funding of over 199,000 from THRIVE, for development of the former Connolly Barracks, which closed in 2009 and Mr Harris insisted regeneration of Longford town is a key objective. "It will be a big priority and I've been working very closely with Micheal Carrigy on this," Mr Harris said. Last June, Longford 2040: A Town Centre First Strategy, an ambitious plan that sets out a pathway for the revival and revitalisation of Longford Town, was launched and Mr Harris referred to that. "I'm delighted we now have a Longford 2040 plan and I know that there are a number of really important aspects in terms of how we can regenerate the town," he said. The Taoiseach also stated the Department of Rural and Community Development will be vitally important. "What I would say to people in Longford is a couple of things, it's really important that we keep the Department of Rural and Community Development and are fully committed to that in Fine Gael because that is the department that I think will help provide a lot of the significant funding that will be needed," he said. Protest in Solidarity for Palestine The Longford Palestine Solidarity group organised and held a march in support of Palestine in Longford town during November. The march saw over a hundred people in attendance, all showing up to show their support and solidarity with the people of Gaza and demanding an end to the genocide. Notable figures were present at the event, like Sinn Fein Deputy Sorca Clarke who addressed the crowd and made clear that she fully supported bringing an end to the genocide. People Before Profit General Election candidate Dave Smyth strongly condemned the genocide and demanded that the incoming government, who ever they may be take clear and decisive action. Other election candidates Barry Campion (Sinn Fein), Deputy Joe Flaherty (Fianna Fail) and Louise Heavin were also in attendance. Water outages costing local businesses Water outages and disruptions in county Longford this year have increased steadily by a substantial 74% and it is costing local businesses thousands of euro and damaging the local economy. The data shows that there were 118 water outages between January 1 and November 5, 2024. That compares to 69 in 2023 in the county. Uisce Eireann confirmed there were 96 water outages in 2022, 108 in 2021, 76 in 2020, 118 in 2019 with 167 in 2018. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: December 31 2024 State Agency Staffing Increased and Security Augmented at Airports, Bridges, Tunnels and Mass Transit Systems as Precautionary Measure. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced enhanced security measures being taken this week by state agencies ahead of New Year's Eve. Agencies including the Division of State Police, New York National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will have increased staffing through the holiday, and security will be augmented at airports, bridges, tunnels and mass transit systems as a precautionary measure to help keep New Yorkers safe. Governor Hochul urges New Yorkers to be safe and be aware of their surroundings when attending public events to celebrate the new year. As we gather in New York City to celebrate the start of a new year, Ive directed our State agencies to take all necessary steps to ensure that New Yorkers and visitors can celebrate safely and peacefully, Governor Hochul said. Public safety is my top priority, and I am committed to using every tool at our disposal to keep you safe. New York State Agency Activities New York State Police New York State Police will be at maximum staffing through the New Years holiday and there will be an increased presence of Troopers at critical infrastructure and transportation facilities statewide. State Police will monitor all mass gatherings and share intelligence with other law enforcement agencies to keep New Yorkers safe. Troopers will also be highly visible on interstates and state highways as part of a dedicated holiday traffic enforcement initiative targeting aggressive and impaired drivers. National Guard Troops from Joint Task Force Empire Shield, the New York National Guard security force in New York City, were on duty over New Years weekend supplementing law enforcement at rail and bus transportation sites, and at LaGuardia and JFK airports and the New York Police Department. The 24th Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team, based at Fort Hamilton is on standby for New Years Eve near Times Square in New York City. Soldiers and Airmen are trained to identify chemical, biological and explosive materials, and to assist civilian first responders. New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is in contact with public safety officials in New York City including the NYPD, Port Authority and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. This year, the State Office of Counter Terrorism (OCT) conducted Red Team exercises at more than 900 locations in each of the States 16 Counter Terrorism Zones. Separately, OCT trained an additional 1,400 New Yorkers through approximately 50 terrorism awareness presentations across New York. Law enforcement teams and OCT staff also completed 66 NY-SECURE rail counter terrorism details to remind travelers of the importance of using the See Something, Say Something app and hotline to report suspicious activity. Teams also assessed more than 200 infrastructure locations across the State, including stadiums and arenas, malls and shopping centers, colleges and universities, airports, transit hubs and other mass-gathering locations. 58 percent of the locations were new and not visited in previous years, this was an 18 percent increase from 2023. OCTs Cyber Incident Response Team also provided cyber threat briefings to over 2,600 state and local government stakeholders to ensure awareness and preparedness. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey The Port Authority continues to work closely with our local, state, and federal partners to enhance protective counter measures around large public events to ensure the safety and security of the traveling public. This includes but is not limited to additional police and civilian security staffing at all our facilities. Safeguarding the public and our employees is the absolute highest priority for the Port Authority. Metropolitan Transportation Authority The Metropolitan Transportation Authority MTA has increased patrols and surveillance to provide heightened protection at major rail hubs. The MTA Police Department has stepped up its uniformed and plainclothes presence in Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal as well as other major stations throughout the Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road network. Police canine teams and special purpose units will provide added protection. Railroad customers will also see increased train patrols, as well as random bag checks at various locations. The MTA Police Department, NYPD and MTA Bridges and Tunnels Officers share intelligence information and coordinate their threat response providing a seamless protection throughout the region. Together with the NYPD, the MTA closely monitors large public events to provide security to our customers, employees and facilities. If You See Something, Say Something New Yorkers are reminded to stay alert to their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity. Reports can be made to the New York State Terrorism Tips Line at 1-866-SAFENYS (1-866-723-3697) or at https://www.dhses.ny.gov/form/terrorism-tips-online-submission. New Yorkers can also download the See Something, Say Something smartphone app on the Safeguard New York webpage. Sparkler Safety Governor Hochul also urged New Yorkers to practice safety when engaging in celebrations, including using sparklers that can cause dangerous fires and injuries when not used properly. The State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) states that sparkling devices are ground-based or handheld sparking devices that produce a shower of colored sparks or colored flame, crackling or whistling noise and smoke they do not launch into the air. Users must be 18 years or older to use sparkling devices. The following fireworks are illegal statewide: firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners and aerial devices. Sales of sparkling devices by certified permanent and specialty retailers can only take place during the year from June 1 to July 5 and December 26 to January 2. Sales of sparkling devices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20 to July 5 and December 26 to January 2. A list of registered sparkling device vendors appears here. The list of counties that prohibit the sale and possession of sparkling devices is ever changing. To ensure compliance, please check with your local county sheriffs office. Learn more about sparkling devices here. Sparkler Safety Tips Children and sparklers are a dangerous combination. Never allow young children to play with or ignite sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to melt some metals. Never throw or point sparkling devices toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials. Always follow packaging instructions. Keep a water supply or an approved fire extinguisher nearby. Only light one sparkling device at a time and never attempt to relight a dud. Always use sparkling devices outdoors. Never light sparklers inside. Store sparkling devices in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. If you are impaired by alcohol, do not use sparkling devices. Always wear eye protection when using sparkling devices. The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control also encourages parents and guardians to provide children and teens with non-flammable alternatives to sparkling devices, which can be easily found at most retail stores, such as glow sticks, pipe cleaner sparklers, fairy lights and LED Items. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: December 31 2024 Aliyah Petrone received numerous blood and platelet transfusions during her battle with acute myeloid leukemia. New York Blood Center (NYBC) will be hosting a blood drive at the Massapequa Fire Department on Thursday, January 2nd from 1:45pm to 7:45pm. The blood drive will be in honor of Aliyah Petrone, a courageous young woman from Massapequa who battled and survived an aggressive form of leukemia. In the fall of 2017, during her freshman year of college, Aliyah was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). She relied on many blood and platelet transfusions throughout her treatment that played a critical role in her recovery. Aliyah is now in remission and has channeled her experience into action by hosting an annual blood drive with NYBC. She hosted her first blood drive in December 2017, with a goal of giving back to her community and raising awareness about the vital role blood donations play in saving lives. Dance has always been my passion, and as I continue to perform, teach, and work toward a doctorate in clinical psychology, Im reminded of how precious life is, said Aliyah Petrone. My journey wouldnt have been possible without the blood and platelet donations that helped save my life. Your donation can be the reason someone else gets a second chance. Aliyahs strength and resilience is truly inspiring. She has overcome her own health challenges while becoming a passionate advocate for blood donations and New York Blood Center is proud to call her a valued partner, said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at the New York Blood Center. We are grateful for folks like Aliyah who spread awareness about the need for blood and who serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900. WHEN: Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 1:45 p.m. 7:45 p.m. WHERE: Massapequa Fire Department - Main Meeting Room, 515 Hicksville Road, Massapequa, NY, 11758 WHO: Blood Donors, Volunteers, and New York Blood Center representatives WHY: It only takes one hour to donate, and a single donation can save multiple lives. Roughly one in seven hospital admissions require a blood transfusion. Those in need include: cancer patients, accident, burn, or trauma victims, newborn babies and their mothers, transplant recipients, surgery patients, chronically transfused patients suffering from sickle cell disease or thalassemia, and many more. To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Cant donate blood? You can still make a lifesaving impact by supporting NYBCs mission through financial contributions or volunteering your time. Click here to learn more. About New York Blood Center Founded in 1964, New York Blood Center (NYBC) has served the tri-state area for more than 60 years, delivering 500,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 150+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. NYBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCes Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. NYBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit nybc.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Islamic State Somalia fighters are shown training in a photo previously released by the Islamic States central media apparatus. Earlier today, the Puntland Security Forces (PSF), the armed forces of Somalias northern Puntland region, announced thwarting a major assault on a PSF base. Unusually, the attack was not carried out by Shabaab, the most powerful militant group in the country, but by Shabaabs rival, the Islamic State Somalia (ISS). The large-scale operation marks a rare offensive for the relatively small Islamic State group, in contrast with Shabaab, which routinely carries out such assaults across much of Somalia. Though ultimately failing, the attempt still represents the growing strength and audacity of the Islamic State wing. According to the PSF, Islamic State militants targeted one of its outposts near Dharjaale, just south of the Cal Miskaat Mountains, where Islamic State Somalia is based, with at least two suicide car bombings in the early morning hours. These bombings, which instantly killed at least four PSF troops, were followed by an assault team. The tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of the operation closely mirrored those of Shabaabs TTPs for such assaults, as the Al Qaeda branch often begins its base attacks with suicide car bombings to clear a path for its gunmen. Following the entry of the assault team, Puntland troops reportedly engaged in firefights and hand-to-hand combat with the Islamic States men. At least one ISS militant then detonated his explosive device inside the basethough other reports indicate up to four ISS fighters may have detonated themselves during the battle. In all, Puntland says its forces killed at least 10 ISS fighters, many of whom were foreign fighters from Ethiopia, Yemen, Syria, and further beyond. Videos from the scene also clearly depict non-Somalis among the ISS dead, while other videos confirm the use of explosive vests/belts among the jihadists. Puntland has not given a full rundown of its casualties as of the time of publishing. A rare assault for Islamic State Somalia Todays attempted assault on the PSF base at Dharjaale is the first of its kind in many years and ISSs first reported use of a suicide bombing since at least early 2023. While the group has periodically clashed with PSF over the last two years, these encounters have typically been defensive in naturefor instance, after the PSF raids ISS positions. The fact that ISS would mount an offensive operation of this scale is notable for several reasons. First, it is the groups largest offensive action on Puntland state since ISS stormed and briefly laid siege to a hotel in Bosaso in early 2017. That raid happened just months after ISS briefly captured and occupied the port town of Qandala in late 2016. The jihadist group has mounted several significant operations more recently, particularly late last year and earlier this year, but these efforts targeted Shabaabs men in the Puntland mountains, rather than Puntland itself. ISS has done relatively little against Puntland since 2017. Second, this mornings failed assault comes after ISS has spent the last few years recruiting more personnel, training its cadres, and consolidating its positions after ousting Shabaab from several of its previous northern strongholds. This author, along with researcher Lucas Webber, outlined this deadly transformation earlier this year for the Combating Terrorism Centers Sentinel journal. While ISS was previously estimated at a couple of hundred fighters just a couple of years ago, today it is believed to contain 600700 people, many of whom are foreign fighters from across East and Northern Africa, Yemen, and the broader Middle East. Though this relatively small number is still dwarfed by Shabaabs ranks, it still ultimately provides ISS more capacity to undertake operations like todays than it previously had. Third, todays battle comes as Puntland is gearing up to mount its own large-scale offensive against both ISS and Shabaab by targeting their respective bases in Puntlands mountain ranges. It is possible that ISS wanted to preempt such an offensive with its attack, or at least signal to Puntland that it would not be easy to oust the group from its mountain bases. Though ISS is relatively small and not as powerful as its rival in Al Qaedas Shabaab, ISSs real importance comes from its financing and logistical networks, as well as its leadership cadre. Its leadership, led by Abdul Qadir Mumin, is among the most influential within the Islamic States structure on the African continentand even beyond, with Mumin also serving as a senior leader within the Islamic States overall hierarchy. Acting as the head of the Islamic States Al Karrar regional officea middle-management hub for eastern, central, and southern AfricaMumin coordinates much of the Islamic States activities in Africa. Generating millions of dollars a year in extortion and illegal taxes, ISS also uses this money to fund Islamic State affiliates elsewhere, such as the Central Africa Province in the Congo, Mozambique Province, Yemen Province, and Khorasan Province, as well as Islamic State cells across southern Africa and inside Turkey. In addition, this money helps facilitate the movement of resources and personnel between several of these provinces and cells. Thus, if Puntlands upcoming offensive against ISS is successful, it will have far-reaching financial, logistical, and strategic implications for Islamic State operations across Africa and the world. Caleb Weiss is an editor of FDD's Long War Journal and a senior analyst at the Bridgeway Foundation, where he focuses on the spread of the Islamic State in Central Africa. Troops with the IDFs 769th Brigade dismantle Hezbollahs terrorist infrastructure. (IDF) The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continued combing through southern Lebanon to dismantle Hezbollah sites and extract weapons and munitions from villages and hilly terrain near the Israeli border. These operations come as the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire has entered its second month, and the IDF has a limited window to operate in Lebanon before it is supposed to withdraw in the third week of January. In the most recent operations, the IDFs 769th Brigade maintained efforts to dismantle Hezbollahs terrorist infrastructure in line with agreements between Israel and Lebanon, the IDF said on December 31. The 769th is a territorial brigade that controls the eastern sector along the border with Lebanon, while the 300th Brigade controls the western sector. Both territorial brigades fall under the 91st Division. The 769th spent most of the last year on defense, waiting for the IDF to prepare offensive operations into Lebanon. Those operations finally began in late September, and Israeli forces crossed the border in strength on October 1. The IDF first mentioned the 769th operating inside Lebanon in early November, and the unit cleared several areas between the border and the Litani River. The Israeli military stated that the 769th worked with the Golani Brigade and other troops in the Saluki stream region of southern Lebanon over the last week of December. This well-known area was the site of a tough battle in the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. The troops conducted searches and located a concealed storage facility in complex terrain. The storage facility contained a significant amount of weaponry, including launchers, missiles, and explosive devices, the IDF stated. Israeli forces also found rifles, among other weapons, before dismantling the site. The IDF has discovered significant weapons caches in southern Lebanon, including numerous Iranian-made 107mm rockets and anti-tank missiles and massive quantities of AK-47s and explosives. The IDF has also found many vehicles used for launching rockets, some of which have been put on display at several sites in Israel. On December 27, Major General Tomer Bar, commander of the Israeli Air Force, visited one of these sites and commented on Israels current operations. This morning, we struck seven crossings along the Syria-Lebanon border. We understood that [Hezbollah was] trying to test us and smuggle weapons once again. They are attempting to raise their heads and test how strictly we are enforcing these understandings. This must not be tolerated, Bar said. These comments highlight the continuing challenges the IDF faces in preventing Hezbollah from re-arming. In another sector of Lebanon, the IDFs 226th brigade, which is part of the 146th Division, also combed through the hill country near Naqoura on the Mediterranean coast. The troops identified military equipment and weapons storage facilities embedded inside civilian buildings, including [finding] explosives, RPG missiles, and AK-47 rifles inside a pharmacy, the IDF said. The troops also discovered several large Burkan missiles and a 40-barrel launcher mounted on a truck. In a third area along the border, the 300th Brigade found a tunnel near the border estimated to stretch 100 meters. With the assistance of the Yahalom Unit, who investigated and cleared the tunnel route of explosives and threats, the troops located rifles, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and observation systems inside the tunnel, the IDF said. The tunnel was then destroyed. As the IDF continues operations in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah has warned it will respond to Israeli violations of the ceasefire. Mahmoud Komati, the deputy chief of Hezbollahs Political Council, commented on Hezbollahs Al-Manar TV that Israel will need to withdraw its forces by the end of the 60-day ceasefire. Hezbollah is committed to the ceasefire during the first 60 days mentioned in the text of the truce deal, Komati added. Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024). This story first appeared in the Boston Business Journal. Its a nerve-wracking time for higher education, with fewer students in local high schools and abroad and an incoming presidency that many say is at odds with their mission. Theres a silver lining for Massachusetts colleges: the state can claim more of the most-selective schools than any other nationally. That includes three of the top 10 and 12 of the top 64, according to a Boston Business Journal review of federal education data through 2023. Massachusetts has few peers when it comes to hosting some of the countrys choosiest colleges. California, with a population more than five times larger, has two of the top 10 most selective and 16 of the top 99. New York has nine of the top 74 and Pennsylvania has 10 of the top 92. Harvard has retained its perch as the states most selective, even as the number of applying students has since dropped 5% this fall from a year prior amid campus controversies that included protests over war in the Middle East and the resignation of its president. Harvard nonetheless attracts far more applicants than it did a decade ago and all of the states most selective schools are getting more applications than they used to. In fact, of the states 20 most selective schools, the average increase in applications has been 56%, according to the Journals analysis of federal data. MIT also remains one of the countrys most selective and another local school, Northeastern University, has made its way into the top 10 nationally, the latest milestone for a campus that was once known as a commuter school. The countrys top 10, in addition to the three Massachusetts schools, includes the California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Columbia University, Princeton University, Yale University, the University of Chicago and Brown University. Remember when someone lost their fake teeth at The Big E? Or when a horse had to be rescued after falling through a barn floor? Here are 10 of the weirdest and most unique news stories from Massachusetts this past year. 10. #Goatgate consumed a Longmeadow Facebook forum in November, leading to hundreds of residents hissing at each other over a meandering cat named Goat, who visited a neighbors home too many times for comfort. 9. A Middleborough coffee shop went viral on TikTok in November for its video of customers dancing in exchange for free coffee. Stephen Nedoroscik competes on the pommel horse at the United States Gymnastics Olympic Trials on Saturday, June 29, 2024, in Minneapolis.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) 8. Worcester Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik, the pommel horse guy was compared to Clark Kent. The bronze medalist winner went on to star in Dancing with the Stars. 30 1 / 30 Massachusetts Chuck E. Cheeses David Cifarelli 7. The animatronic band at Chuck E. Cheese, called Munchs Make Believe Band, is vanishing from Massachusetts. There is now only one animatronic band left after another was removed from the Methuen location in July. 6. Remember how when you were a child and fell playing outside, a single bandage could take away the pain? A Harvard scientist hopes to develop the adult version of that with a non-opioid painkiller drug. 5. From giant rats protesting in South Boston to rats on birth control, there was so much rat news in 2024. However, Boston did not make the top 10 list for being the rattiest city in the U.S. 45 1 / 45 The Big E: Lost and Found 4. The Big Es lost and found always has interesting finds. But this years lost fake teeth take the cake. A 8-year-old horse was standing in its barn stall in Ipswich when the floor below him shattered. The horse became stuck hanging in the air in a terrifying ordeal, according to MSPCA at Nevins Farm.MSPCA 3. A 1,200-pound horse was standing in its barn stall in Ipswich when the floor below him shattered. The horse became stuck hanging in the air in a terrifying ordeal, according to MSPCA at Nevins Farm. The joro spider, a large spider native to East Asia, is seen in Johns Creek, Ga., on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021. The spider has spun its thick, golden web on power lines, porches and vegetable patches all over north Georgia this year a proliferation that has driven some unnerved homeowners indoors and prompted a flood of anxious social media posts. (AP Photo/Alex Sanz)AP 2. Giant flying Joro spiders reached Massachusetts earlier this year. These spiders are not likely to appear in Western Massachusetts due to colder winters. But warming temperatures in eastern Massachusetts yield the likelihood that the spiders can survive the winter, according to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. Richard "Rick" Slayman, who became the world's first living recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has died almost two months after he underwent the procedure.Michelle Rose/Massachusetts General Hospital 1. The worlds first successful transplant of a genetically edited pig kidney into a living person was performed at Massachusetts General Hospital this year. Richard Slayman, a 62-year-old man from Weymouth, had end-stage kidney disease and was the pig kidneys recipient during a four-hour surgery on March 16. Slayman died in May due to an unexpected cardiac event. Still, this advancement will go down in Massachusetts history. This news is uniquely (and proudly) Massachusetts and will likely help save millions of patients one day. In an 11th-hour deal, Point32Health and Tenet Healthcare Corp. reached a four-year contract agreement to continue in-network coverage for members at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester and MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham and Natick. Point32Health, the states second-largest insurer and owner of Tufts Health and Harvard Pilgrim Health, informed MassLive of the agreement Monday evening, just 30 or so hours before 17,000 members were going to lose in-network benefits at the major Central Massachusetts hospitals as of Jan. 1. UMass Memorial Health and Boston Childrens Hospital had already announced they could not reach a new contract by Jan. 1 with Point32Health for Tufts Health Direct members specifically. Between the two health systems, approximately 30,000 patients are affected forced to find new providers or new insurance or pay out-of-pocket costs. Until Monday night, negotiations between Point32Health and for-profit Tenet were still ongoing. Point32Health has successfully reached a four-year contract agreement for all product lines with Tenet Healthcare for MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham and Natick, Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester and Worcester Surgical Center in Worcester, a spokesperson said in a statement to MassLive. Details of the agreement were not released Monday. The testy negotiations lasted many months, all while Point32Health and Tenet traded barbs in public messaging and the media. Dallas-based Tenet claimed Point32Health was not engaging in good faith discussions to reach an equitable agreement, and instead prioritizing profits over member access. The hospital owner pointed to the insurers proposed $165 million purchase of a Western, Massachusetts-based health plan, while simultaneously reporting an operating loss in the first six months of 2024. Meanwhile, Point32Health said Tenet had demanded reimbursement payments over the next four years significantly above the state Health Policy Commissions cost growth benchmark. The insurer accused Tenet of publishing inaccurate messaging about our negotiations. Mondays deal means Point32Health members will continue to receive uninterrupted care at Saint Vincent Hospital and MetroWest Medical Center at in-network status. Two men who were arrested on gun charges near the site of a fatal shooting in Dorchester earlier this month are now facing murder charges, police said. Darius Powell, 25, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and Daiquan Miller, 25, of Dorchester, are each charged with murder in connection with the death of Keith Cousin, 37, of Bayonne, New Jersey. Powell and Miller were already in custody on charges of unlawful firearm possession and unlawful possession of a large-capacity feeding device, according to the Boston Police Department. Cousin was found with fatal gunshot wounds at 114 Devon St. after a ShotSpotter activation around 10:24 p.m. on Dec. 9. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Powell and Miller are expected to be arraigned on the murder charges at a later time, police said. The shooting remains under investigation by Boston Police Homicide detectives. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 617-343-4470. Patients would pay no more than $25 for certain name-brand medications to treat chronic illnesses, including insulin for diabetes, and face no costs whatsoever for similar generic options under a compromise bill that the House and Senate whisked to Gov. Maura Healeys desk on Monday. The bill that came out of months of private talks late Friday would also add scrutiny to pharmacy benefit managers and eliminate or cap out-of-pocket costs for drugs that treat certain chronic conditions. The branches sent the bill to Healey with just one day remaining in the two-year term, leaving only hours to iron out any potential differences and likely giving Healey just two options sign it or let it die by pocket veto. The bill requires MassHealth, the Group Insurance Commission which covers state employees, retirees and their dependents and other insurers to provide coverage for one generic drug and one name-brand drug for each of the following: diabetes, asthma and the two most prevalent heart conditions. Patients being treated for those conditions would not have to share any of the cost of a generic drug, including through co-payments, co-insurances or a deductible. The selected name-brand drug wont be subject to any deductible or co-insurance, and co-pays would be capped at $25, according to a bill summary. Last time we looked, its about 180,000 people that will be affected by that change, meaning they will have access to those drugs, said Sen. Cindy Friedman, a lead negotiator on the bill, said during Mondays session. Friedman, who in her time as Health Care Financing Committee co-chair has called on industry power players to embrace reforms, previously said she does not assume that these are going to be greater costs for the insurers by limiting cost-sharing for chronic illness treatments. Language in the Senate bill to cap what patients pay for delivery mechanisms to manage chronic illnesses, like needles, inhalers and monitors, was not included in the final compromise, a Friedman aide said. The Senate passed its version of the bill in November 2023. The House approved its bill in late July of 2024. The bill would also create a licensure process for pharmacy benefit managers, who have come under scrutiny for their role in brokering drug transactions. PBMs broker transactions between insurers, manufacturers and pharmacies, and they argue that their work drives down consumer costs. Critics say PBMs function with little oversight and are responsible for rising costs. Under the compromise, the Division of Insurance would license and regulate PBMs in Massachusetts. It would also prohibit a PBM from making payments to a pharmacy benefit consultant or broker if its a conflict of interest. The Center for Health Information and Analysis would be authorized to collect data on PBMs and issue regulations to better collect information from them and to help the state understand cost growth drivers for prescription drugs, according to the bill summary. It takes the first step in understanding the role that pharmacy benefit managers play in the delivery of the health care system, and the effect that it has on cost, and again, on access, Friedman said. Rich Pezzillo, executive director of the New England Hemophilia Association and co-leader of the Patients for Prescription Access coalition, said PBMs have been allowed to operate under the radar for far too long. Through their insurance tactics, and because of their hidden position as middlemen, PBMs have directly compromised patient care and access to much-needed treatments, Pezzillo said. Its our hope that with oversight and transparency mandates included in the bill, PBMs will be forced to show their cards and patients will have greater access to, and be able to better afford, the medicines they rely on. We look forward to working with lawmakers in 2025 to build upon this legislation and protect patients further by passing a ban on copay accumulators and ensuring PBM rebates get passed through to consumers. The bill also attempts to ensure patients purchasing prescription drugs at a pharmacy are not charged more via cost-sharing, by using a co-pay or deductible, if its cheaper for them to buy it directly, Friedman said. The new cost share caps for drugs used to treat diabetes, asthma and heart conditions would go into effect on July 1, 2025. The bill gives the insurance commissioner until Oct. 1, 2025 to release regulations for PBMs, which they would have to begin complying with on Jan. 1, 2026. The bill would create an Office for Pharmaceutical Policy and Analysis within the Health Policy Commission to analyze trends related to pharmaceutical access, affordability and spending. It also authorizes the HPC to assess pharmaceutical manufacturing companies and PBMs. Pharmaceutical manufacturers and PBMs would be required to attend the HPCs annual cost growth benchmark hearing, where the commission sets a statutory growth rate for health care costs based on expert testimony, though the HPC lacks the power to enforce consequences for exceeding that cost growth. We appreciate efforts to bring real transparency to drug pricing, said a statement from Save Our Benefits MA, a coalition of labor unions and business groups trying to keep insurance prices down. Big Pharma has spent heavily at consumers' expense by blaming others for rising drug prices while padding their own pockets. Allowing the HPC to take the time to truly study where pharmaceutical costs originate is a victory for Massachusetts consumers. Sen. Bruce Tarr of Gloucester, who was on the conference committee that negotiated the final bill, said during Mondays session that Senate-approved protections for independent pharmacists were left out of the bill. My hope would be that we would continue to consider in the future, the expanded role that pharmacists are playing in the delivery of health care to make sure that its properly recognized and properly compensated. And this bill does not include provisions to that end. I intend to file them in the new session, Tarr said. Friedman thanked him for bringing up the topic. We were unable to move that, it is very important. Its especially important that we maintain the solvency and stability of our independent pharmacists who provide such critical care, especially around packaging and compounding for many of our group homes and people in rural communities, etcetera, Friedman said. I, too, want to make some real movement on that. Senate-passed prescription drug pricing bills died in each of the past two sessions without votes in the House, where Democrats instead set their sights on trying to overhaul the process for reviewing hospital expansions. The drug reform bill was negotiated this year as a side-by-side package, Friedman said, with a hospital oversight bill that was also released from committee on Friday and passed by the branches on Monday. Ahead of New Years Eve, the Boston Police Department urged residents to take precautions to ensure their drinks are not spiked while out celebrating on Tuesday night. Police warned that scentless, colorless and tasteless drugs like Rohypnol, more commonly known as roofies, can be slipped into drinks undetected and cause disorientation, confusion, temporary paralysis and unconsciousness, among other symptoms. To ensure their safety, residents should only accept drinks served directly by a bartender or server, and avoid accepting drinks from people they dont know or trust. Police also encouraged those out celebrating to keep their drink in sight at all times and never leave it unattended, including taking it with them to the restroom. Covering drinks while not actively drinking can also prevent your drink from being spiked, police said. Anyone who feels dizzy, nauseous, light-headed or generally unwell should seek immediate help, police said. If you see someone who appears to be in distress, is walking alone late at night or is dressed inappropriately for the weather, contact police immediately. Police also urged those out celebrating to watch for unusual behavior in friends an acquaintances and to be cautious of strangers trying to separate individuals from their group. The Boston Police Department urges anyone who believes they have been the victim of drink spiking or other criminal behavior to report the incident without delay, police wrote. Lets work together to make this New Years Eve celebration safe and enjoyable for all. A Cape Cod teenager pleaded guilty to charges connected with what prosecutors have said was a racially motivated attack on a Black teenager last July. The teen, John Sheeran, 15, will be sentenced on Feb. 5. Sheeran pleaded guilty to charges of attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. Despite his age, Sheerans arraignment was open to the public because he was indicted as a youthful offender, the Barnstable Juvenile Court clerks office confirmed. Teenagers charged with attempted murder would not otherwise be arraigned in open court. On July 19, 2023, the then 14-year-old Sheeran attempted to drown a Black teenager at Goose Pond in Chatham, MassLive reported at the time, citing a statement from Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois. Sheeran and another white teenager met up with the Black teenager at the pond, where the trio got in the water. The Black teenager told the other teens he couldnt swim, and was wearing a life jacket. When they were in the water, Sheeran began pulling on the teenagers life jacket and pulled him underwater about five times. The third teenager laughed and called the Black teenager George Floyd, the district attorneys office said. The 14-year-old then swam underwater and pulled the Black teenager underwater by the feet, the district attorneys office said. Someone heard the Black teenager yelling for help and got in the water to help get him safely back to shore. Kevin Reddington, an attorney representing Sheeran, called the charges over the top and said the teenagers were just horseplaying, The Boston Globe reported. Reddington said Sheeran was friends with the other boys. A former Canton police chief who served in the role during the Karen Read investigation died on Saturday, according to his obituary. Ken Berkowitz served as chief of police from 2005 to 2022, when he retired, according to the Canton Citizen. He was a member of the police department for three decades. Berkowitzs obituary does not list a cause of death. The brief notice encourages donations in his name to Cops For Kids With Cancer. Services for Berkowitz will be held at Temple Sinai in Sharon at noon on Jan. 2 with interment to follow at Sharon Memorial Park. Berkowitzs tenure as Canton police chief was marked by two high-profile cases that have since prompted allegations of law enforcement misconduct: the deaths of Boston Police Officer John OKeefe, 46, and Sandra Birchmore, 23. Birchmore was found dead in her Canton apartment in February 2021, and her death was initially ruled a suicide. But federal prosecutors this year charged Matthew Farwell, a former Stoughton police officer, with killing Birchmore, who he is accused of sexually abusing beginning when she was 15. Birchmore told Farwell she was pregnant with his child shortly before her death. In the days after OKeefe was found cold to the touch outside a Canton home owned at the time by a Boston Police officer, authorities arrested his girlfriend, Karen Read, and charged her with killing him. Read has claimed she is the victim of a law enforcement conspiracy. Helena Rafferty currently serves as police chief in Canton. Officials are continuing to investigate the killing of a man found dead in an Abington backyard on Friday and have identified several persons of interest who were previously acquainted with the man, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz announced. Anthony Leverone, 43, was found unresponsive at 563 Plymouth St. after a relative asked police to conduct a well-being check around 7:25 p.m. Friday. Leverone, who sustained blunt force trauma and high impact injuries, was pronounced dead at the scene, Cruzs office said in a statement. His death is being investigated as a homicide. Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to Cruzs office and Abington police have conducted interviews with multiple people, reviewed surveillance video, and executed search warrants on several cell phones as part of this active investigation, the statement reads. A blue Hyundai Sonata sought as part of the investigation into Leverones death was found and seized in Taunton, Cruzs office said. The persons of interest involved in the investigation were previously acquainted with Leverone, Cruzs office said. People living in parts of the Northeast will get a chance to see the northern lights on Monday and during New Years Eve. A strong, G3 geomagnetic storm will take place across Earth and will be visible in New York and parts of New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This storm will produce colorful ribbons of light that will stretch across the night sky. But, according to the administrations map, the northern lights will miss nearly all of Massachusetts. So Bay State residents eager to see a cosmic light show will have to take a drive up north to do so. These streaks of light are due to the coronal mass ejection from the Sun on Dec. 29, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Coronal mass ejections are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the outer layer. The best time to see the northern lights tonight will be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, according to the Boston Globe. People can see the northern lights on New Years Eve during the early morning hours before dawn, the NOAA space weather forecaster Shawn Dahl told the Associated Press. Theres no doubt that 2024 was a big year for politics in the Bay State. Lets review. The past 12 months have seen the collapse of Steward Health Care, which sent shockwaves through the states hospital sector. Voters tossed the MCAS exam as a high school graduation requirement. Protests tied to the Israel-Hamas war rocked college campuses statewide. It took the state Legislature jussssssstttttt forever to finish its allotted work, leaving some to wonder whether the July 31 summer deadline really meant anything at all. But Gov. Maura Healey did get to sign her priority housing, economic development and climate bills into law. Strap-hangers on the MBTA spent months riding on shuttle buses while T boss Phillip Eng and his team scrambled to fix decades of neglect and disrepair on the nations oldest subway system. A cash crisis still beckons. And, yes, there was the small matter of the reelection of former President Donald Trump. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren and all nine Democratic members of the Bay States U.S. House delegation all won reelection. And the Legislature largely remains challenger-proof. Meanwhile, some stories, such as Massachusetts' ongoing shelter system crisis, carried over from 2023 and seem likely to carry over into 2025 as well. The year ended with the corruption arrest of Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson. And Boston Mayor Michelle Wu was dealt a defeat when her push to avoid a property tax hike for homeowners died a long, slow death on Beacon Hill. Boston homeowners now face a 10.4% hike in their property taxes. We didnt start the fire, indeed. All of which is to say that it was tough to come up with a list of the Top 5 Massachusetts political stories of the year. And readers may justifiably quibble with what stories did or more likely, did not make our highly unscientific list of the Top 5 stories of the year. Here they are. Carney Hospital, a Steward Health Care facility in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood.Will Katcher/MassLive Stewards Collapse This year started with Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and other state officials raising red flags about the finances of Dallas-based Steward Health Care, which then owned nine hospitals across the commonwealth. In February, Healey pressed Steward executives to turn over a raft of financial documents and then publicly excoriated the company when it failed to fully comply with that request. In May, saddled with tens of millions of dollars in debt, Steward tumbled into bankruptcy, lending urgency to calls by Healey and others for the company to wind down its operations in Massachusetts. A month earlier, in April, Steward shuttered New England Sinai Acute Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Hospital in Stoughton. It then announced plans to close Carney Hospital in Dorchester and Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer after it said it had failed to find qualified bidders for the two facilities. The two hospitals closed their doors for good in late August. During the summer, Steward moved to sell both its remaining Massachusetts hospitals and its physicians' network. As that process unfolded, the U.S. Senate voted to hold Stewards CEO, Dr. Ralph de la Torre, in contempt for failing to comply with a subpoena ordering him to appear before a Senate committee. On Beacon Hill, a bill intended to avert a future Steward-style meltdown remained tied up in a joint House and Senate conference committee until Friday. With the clock running down on the current two-year legislative session the bill was sent to Healey on Monday. The bill increases penalties for hospitals that fail to comply with data reporting requirements, mandates that lessors notify the state 60 days before repossessing medical equipment, overhauls how regulators manage care costs and assess resources, and blocks the Department of Public Health from issuing a license to establish or maintain acute care hospitals whose main campuses are leased from a real estate investment trust, according to the State House News Service. MBTA General Manager Phil Eng speaks to reporters from a podium set up on the Green Line platform at Government Center on Feb. 15, 2024 (State House News Service photo).State House News Service Fixing the T If you live in Boston and ended the year with over-developed shoulder and arm muscles, it might be because you were hanging on for dear life on a shuttle bus during one of the many rounds of shutdowns on the MBTA in 2024. A year ago, the MBTA network had nearly 200 slow zones, areas where aging infrastructure and delayed maintenance kept trains from running at their top speed, MassLive previously reported. By the end of November, the Red Line was slow-zone-free for the first time in 15 years. The Orange Line was liberated of slow zones early in November for the first time since 2010, the T said. By early December, just a pair of slow zones remained on the Green Line. At the end of the day, its not just about removing the restrictions, MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said during a November meeting of the agencys Board of Directors. Its about giving the riders, the public, improved service, that reliability that they count on. By repairing its infrastructure and removing slow zones, the agency has increased the frequency of trains, Eng said at the board meeting. The T now averages one Blue Line train every four minutes, one Orange Line train every six minutes and one Red Line train every five minutes on weekdays. Data collected by TransitMatters, a public transit advocacy group, shows the median southbound trip on the Red Line took about 44 minutes this week, more than 10 minutes faster than it did in the first week of the year. The median southbound Orange Line trip took 33 minutes this week, a minute or two faster than at the beginning of the year, but more than 10 minutes faster than at its slowest points last year. The public can really be able to now start to enjoy the fruits of what weve been able to put together, Eng said. The transit agencys efforts did not go unnoticed by riders. with one user on Reddits r/MBTA subreddit, posting a picture of Eng under the caption, Two words: Thank you. The post had more than 2,000 likes as of early December, with 89 people largely heaping praise on the Ts boss. General [manager] Eng, I hope you are reading this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for working so hard to fix and improve the T, one user wrote. Your efforts will go down in history with us common folk. Please please please never leave us! We are forever grateful. More work beckons in 2025, with the agency set to lay out a road map for its future plans, Boston.com reported. Another issue: Addressing the transit agencys rickety finances. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu speaks at a press conference in December 2024. (Trea Lavery/MassLive)Trea Lavery/MassLive CTRL-SHIFT-DEL: Boston tax shift plan collapses Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, whos gearing up for a run for her third term atop city government, ended the year with a pretty conspicuous political defeat. Earlier this month, after seemingly endless back-and-forth, the majority-Democrat state Senate pulled the plug on legislation that would have allowed the states largest city to ease residential tax loads by shifting more of the burden to commercial property owners. Wus home rule petition, which previously cleared Boston City Council and the state House, also controlled by Democrats, hit a brick wall in the upper chamber. State Sen. Nick Collins, a South Boston lawmaker with heavy financial backing from the real estate industry, blocked the bill three times. Collins called the citys pleas for the tax shift a campaign of fear and manipulation, State House News Service reported. In the House, Aaron Michlewitz, D-3rd Suffolk, Ways and Means Committee chairperson, said lawmakers there did their part to get the bill over the goal line. This kind of flexibility has been given to Boston mayors in the past and is similar to the flexibility that the Legislature has granted other municipalities, such as Watertown just last year, the Houses top budget writer told State House News Service. That left a frustrated Wu to vent that those who scuttled a carefully crafted agreement on the legislation do not have the best interests of Boston residents at heart. We were instructed by the Senate to reach a compromise with business groups. The Senate did not have their own feedback, Wu said, according to The Boston Globe. We had a deal, and other parties chose to walk away from that. Wu also voiced her frustration with the states home rule petition process, which requires cities and towns, including Boston, to seek legislative authorization before they can amend or change some of their own local laws. There are parts of the commonwealth where I heard feedback from folks that they thought [a double-digit property tax increase] was just fine and that Boston should absorb it, Wu said, according to the Globe. They dont represent or speak for our residents. I know what our residents are going through, and every chance that I have, Im going to fight for the people of Boston. Next up: A possible push to shield renters from paying brokers fees, which can add thousands of dollars to the already high cost of renting an apartment in Boston. From left, Senate President Karen Spilka, Gov. Maura Healey, and House Speaker Ronald Mariano speak to the press after a leadership conference at the State House in 2023. (Sam Doran/State House News Service) Gridlock on Beacon Hill While state lawmakers can claim some pretty significant feathers in their cap for 2024, the past year wasnt without equally significant gridlock on Beacon Hill. Flashback to July 1, when the state started its new fiscal year without a new budget in place for the 14th year in a row. Lawmakers bought themselves some time with a stopgap spending plan intended to keep the wheels of government turning through July 31. The majority-Democrat state House and Senate sent Gov. Maura Healey, also a Democrat, an enacted $58 billion budget just about 19 days later. The compromise spending bill, the product of more than a month of closed-door negotiations between senior lawmakers, provided funding for free community college statewide, more money for the MBTA, and other policy measures. Healey signed the bill 10 days later, on July 29, Lawmakers also wrapped up formal sessions on July 31 with a bunch of unfinished work, eventually sending Healey her signature economic development and climate bills. After initially offering some shrugs, House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, and Senate President Karen E. Spilka did muse aloud that it might be time for a rethink on how the 200-member institution conducts its business. I think our roles are constantly evolving, depending upon how the sessions go ... I think its all up for discussion, Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, told reporters last month during a joint news conference with Mariano and Healey. Mariano, D-3rd Norfolk, offered a similar sentiment. I think it is time to sort of reassess the difficulties that we had this year and ways that we could maybe improve and not have a repeat performance, the Quincy lawmaker said. It was some rare introspection in an institution not normally known for it. And both stressed that lawmakers intended to stay at work until years end. I do want to acknowledge that back in July, we did say we [would] continue working until our last day of the session, Spilka of Ashland, said. And we have. And we still are continuing working until the new session that starts in 2025. Mariano jumped in, rumbling subsonically, as only he can, that maybe July 31 is an arbitrary deadline. As of mid-December, lawmakers still had some big-ticket items on their to-do list, according to a tracker maintained by State House News Service. President-elect Donald Trump in Mobile, Ala., for a rally after winning the 2016 election. The "Thank You" rally took place on Dec. 17, 2016, at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala.file photo Election 2024 Oh ... yeah ... that. President-elect Donald Trumps historic win on Nov. 5, and his return to the White House early next year has potentially far-reaching impacts for deep blue Massachusetts. Assuming hes confirmed, some Democrats worry that Trumps pick to run the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., could choke off the flow of federal money to the Bay States host of life sciences and biotech firms that depend on it. Having Robert Kennedy there gives me great concern, given his statements, U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-8th District, told a gathering of business leaders in Boston last month. State officials and those in so-called sanctuary cities also are bracing themselves for Trump to carry through on his promise to engage in mass deportations. Gov. Maura Healey already has said that Massachusetts State Police wont cooperate in such efforts. And Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said city officials wont be [rolling] out the welcome mat either. That netted her some pushback from Trumps likely border czar, Tom Homan, who derided the two-time Harvard grad as not very smart. Another Trump campaign promise to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education also could have an impact on the Bay State, which is rich with public and private colleges and universities. Blue State governors, Healey among them. already are positioning themselves as a bulwark against the Republican White House. People will look to us to lead, and thats what I, the lieutenant governor and our entire administration are ready to do, Healey, a top surrogate for Vice President Kamala Harris, said in November. Were going to do it with all of our residents. And were going to do it by staying true to things that we care about. And were going to do it by continuing to push forward on the things that make Massachusetts so great, she said. https://www.masslive.com/politics/2024/11/how-blue-state-leaders-like-mass-gov-healey-are-planning-to-resist-trump-john-l-micek.html New Years Eve partygoers across Massachusetts should plan to pack their umbrellas as they head out to ring in 2025. National Weather Service forecasters say heavy rain and a few embedded thunderstorms are possible in the Bay State between 10 p.m. Tuesday and 2 a.m. Wednesday, just in time for the new year. The precipitation is set to hit the western part of the state first, beginning in the evening in Springfield, then about 10 p.m. in Worcester and hitting Boston by around 11 p.m. In all, up to an inch of rain could fall in the Bay State as 2024 turns into 2025. [Approximate Radar Simulation New Years Eve] Dry weather is expected for the first half of Tue evening. A period of heavy rain and perhaps a few embedded t-storms will overspread the region from southwest to northeast between 10 pm and 2 AM...just as we are ringing in 2025. pic.twitter.com/ZNbslJZaFV NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) December 31, 2024 But before the rain, forecasters say dry conditions and above-normal temperatures will mark a relatively quiet New Years Eve. High temperatures should be in the upper 40s or even low 50s. Temperatures will eventually drop into the 30s. Showers will linger Wednesday as temperatures remain in the mid-40s to low 50s, though it wont be a washout. A trend toward colder weather will come Thursday, and temperatures are expected to fall to the teens by Sunday. When reflecting on the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, one cannot help but marvel at his unwavering commitment to service. Born James Earl Carter Jr., he was the only U.S. president sworn into office using his nickname, a reflection of his humility and authenticity. From his early days as a peanut farmer in Plains, Georgia, to his time in the Oval Office, and through his decades of post-presidential service, Carters life was a model of devotion to others. His example stands in stark contrast to the self-centered culture that defines much of modern America. Ciara Sullivan, a Rutland mom who died along with her newborn twins last week, will be remembered for her boundless generosity, warmhearted nature and unwavering love for her family, according to her obituary posted on Tuesday. She found joy in the little things, like reading and completing jigsaw puzzles, and treasured family vacations in York, Maine, and Truro on Cape Cod with her husband Patrick and her best friends, the obituary reads. Relatives and friends of Sullivan are invited to share their condolences at the Miles Funeral Home at 1158 Main St. in Holden, according to Sullivans obituary posted on Tuesday. The visitation hours will be from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Donations will be collected and given to the UMass Medical Center neonatal intensive care unit (NCIU), according to the obituary. Sullivan was born in Quincy and raised in Canton before making Rutland her home for the past seven years, according to her obituary. She graduated from Canton High School, Class of 2012, before attending Assumption College in Worcester, where she earned a bachelors degree in organizational communication, according to the obituary. She went on to Northeastern University in Boston where she graduated with a masters degree in Homeland Security with a concentration in Emergency Management and GIS. She served as a 911 dispatcher for the Shrewsbury Police Department at the beginning of her career and then as an emergency management specialist in Region One for FEMA for the past four years, the obituary reads. Sullivan, 30, was the wife of Rutland firefighter Patrick Sullivan, who shared the obituary Tuesday on his Facebook page. This still feels like a nightmare I will wake up from, Patrick Sullivan wrote. I cannot believe Im sharing my own wifes obituary. Ciara Sullivan was pregnant with twins when she suffered a severe medical emergency and was rushed to the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center in Worcester on Dec. 16, according to the Rutland Regional Emergency Communication Center, which posted updates on its Facebook page over the past two weeks about the status of the Sullivan family. She was intubated shortly after arriving at the hospital, according to a Professional Firefighters Of Massachusetts Charitable Trust fundraiser on Classy. Twins James Michael and Elizabeth Joanne were delivered prematurely via an emergency C-section and were put on ventilators. Patrick Sullivan spoke with Boston 25 News from the hospital on Dec. 26, saying that the prognosis is not good. That same night, a vigil was held at the Rutland Town Common to support Sullivan and his family. Later that night, the Rutland Fire Department updated the community in a Facebook post, announcing that Ciara Sullivan and the twins would be taken off life support the following day. On Saturday, the Rutland Fire Department posted on Facebook the news that Ciara Sullivan and her twins had died. The twins were 11 days old, according to the post. Tonight has been horrible. James Michael and Elizabeth Joanne passed quietly and peacefully with their mother, Ciara Joanne, Patrick Sullivan posted on Facebook Saturday morning. I cant explain the total and utter devastation, anger, rage and loss I feel that this unnecessary tragedy has brought me. After the deaths of his wife and children, the fundraiser for the Massachusetts firefighter and his family raised nearly $144,000 as of Tuesday afternoon. Along with her husband and their father, Sullivan and her twins are survived by their mother and their grandmother, Patricia Ward Lambkin of Shrewsbury; father and grandfather, Stephen Lambkin of Stoughton; brother and uncle Alan Lambkin, his wife, Elaina, and their three children, Shay, Enzo and Siena of Holden; her mother and father-in-law and the twins' paternal grandmother and grandfather, Michael Joseph and Linda Ann Sullivan of Rutland; her brother-in-law and the twins uncle, Thomas Sullivan and his partner, Julianna Babcock of Leominster; many cousins and extended family members in Ireland and the Sullivans dogs a german shepherd named Mia and a Labrador mix named McKenna according to the obituary. TROLLEY figures in Mayo University Hospital in Castebar have fallen from 37 patient yesterday (Monday, December 30) to 14 today (Tuesday, December 31). This comes as a local county councillor has called for emergency action to alleviate the pressure on the hospitals emergency department. This comes as the HSE is warning that flu is having a significant impact on hospital attendance throughout the northwest region, with attendances at MUH 30 percent higher than normal for this time of the year. Almost 900 people across the country are currently being treated for flu. On December 14, 93 were hospitalised with Covid-19, while 248 people were in hospital with RSV. Today, five patients are being treated on trolleys in MUHs emergency department while nine are being treated on trolleys in words. Castlebar-based Independent councillor Harry Barrett called on MUH to put an emergency plan in place to deal with the shocking and completely unacceptable number of people waiting on trolleys in the emergency department. Cllr Barrett, a long-time critic of the lack of capacity in MUH, described the current trolley situation in the hospital as an absolute emergency. These are our family members, friends, and neighbours. They are stuck for hours on end in a noisy, bright, and overcrowded emergency room. Its not just uncomfortable its unsafe. People deserve better than this, especially when theyre at their most vulnerable, he said. Im calling on hospital management, the HSE, and everyone involved to step up and fix this before it gets any worse. We need more beds, more staff, and faster solutions to get patients out of trolleys and into proper care. This is about basic human dignity. People in Mayo deserve a hospital system they can trust to take care of them when theyre sick. Right now, that trust is being tested. Visiting restrictions are currently in place in hospital wards impacted by flu and RSV. The HSE has asked people not to visit loved ones in hospital if they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms. Dr Scott Walkin, Infection Lead with Irish College of General Practitioners, is urging anyone eligible to take the flu vaccination to prevent further spread of the virus. Speaking to The Mayo News yesterday (Monday), the Ballina-based GP said that flu was a county-wide and country-wide problem at present. Vaccination is crucially important, particularly for two- to seventeen-year-olds, also people over 60, people with ongoing medical conditions, people with weak immune systems, people who are pregnant and have given birth in the last two weeks, people who work with swine or poultry, all healthcare workers, said Dr Walkin. If people are sick, and they have coughs, colds or flu symptoms, they should stay at home to protect their work colleagues and to protect the community. Its really important to stay away from people who are medically vulnerable, who have underlying medical problems. Nursing homes The HSE has urged anyone with breathing difficulties or chest pain to attend their local hospitals emergency department for treatment or call 112/999 in an emergency. Patients with non-life-threatening conditions have been asked to seek healthcare in the community. Dr Aine McNamara, Regional Director of Public Health, HSE West and North West, said the level of flu and RSV circulating in communities is having a significant impact on our hospitals and nursing homes. We are urging the public to stay at home if they have flu-like symptoms. There are a number of care options available to people who need support via their local pharmacy, GP, GP Out of Hours, and injury units for non-life-threatening conditions such as fractures and burns, said Dr McNamara. A leading paediatric cardiologist has warned Irish parents about red flags to look out for in childrens cardiac health. Speaking to Dr Afif El Khuffash on The Baby Tribe podcast, paediatric cardiologist Professor Orla Franklin gave advice to parents of children and teenagers about common symptoms experienced by this cohort that may indicate heart disease. She says: The most common one we see in boys is chest pain. Chest pain and growing teenagers is super common. Cardiac chest pain (angina) is very rare, even in children that we know have heart disease. As kids grow and stretch, what you find is that sometimes children and teenagers will develop short, sharp central chest pain that's not provoked by exercise. It's really sharp and then it's gone. It's gone as soon as it comes. "There's excellent data now from multiple surveys involving tens of thousands of kids that these boys will be fine. But of course, the kids who come in are often super sporty, super active. They come from families who are very invested in maintaining their children's long term cardiac health. And so we see them, we see them, we do the screening and we make sure that there's nothing else going on. And we know from all of our own data, and from the worldwide literature that there's something else going on in less than 2% of these kids. READ NEXT: Holiday and honeymoon warning as major Irish travel agency closes suddenly "The girls, and also to a lesser extent, the boys tend to experience problems with fainting. So we know as you go through puberty, 1 in 6 teenagers will faint. We know the peak ages for fainting is around 15. We see a lot of kids like this again, to screen for heart disease and make sure it's not there, which by and large it isn't. By and large, the complex stuff that we see in kids, they're born with, for children with symptoms of fainting, chest pain, they're by and large a healthy group. When asked about other red flags to watch out for, Professor Franklin explained: We don't like any events relating to swimming or cold water immersion. We don't like it when we hear that a child was running and then they dropped. Most kids run, feel a bit unwell, look white in the face, get to the edge of the pitch and then they drop. That's a more benign phenomenon. We can be worried if we hear that this occurs in the context of a family history. "The dynamic is changing a little bit. There used to be a lot of issues in relation to exercise, but now we realise that some of that is adrenaline release. And so now, for example, there are certain arrhythmias that are well described in boys playing video games, tragically and suddenly, a boy who has been invested and excited about a video game may drop, may have a sinkable event, anything like that. We need to see this child. We need to go through this with a fine tooth comb and try to find those kids and preserve their health." Professor Franklin also speaks about the worry parents have about sudden death in children: Every single parent in Ireland is completely worried, and rightly so, about the risk of sudden death. It's something that we all really worry about. We've all stood at the side lines watching our kids get very flushed in the face, or come off a pitch looking white because they've given it their all and we think could there be something happening here? "And, you know, finding those kids who have that risk because of heart muscle disease, because of inherited rhythm problems, that's something in the teenage group that we are super invested in doing. There's very good screening available for that. Should you have any red flags at all in your history where you think you might need to come in and for us to have a second look, we will look and hopefully our objective will be to get you back on the pitch. That's where we want you to be. We want to do the testing, reassure you and get you back out there with confidence. In this interview, Professor Franklin also shares her journey to becoming a paediatric cardiologist. Her stories from the corridors of prestigious hospitals to the realities of healthcare in Ireland show the importance of early intervention in children's cardiovascular health and the societal factors childrens hearts. This episode provides a unique perspective on prevalent heart conditions, recent advances in paediatric cardiology, and the challenges of dealing with congenital heart defects. You can listen here. Ireland is battling a spike in illnesses over the Christmas and New Year period. Hospitals nationwide are under pressure with almost 900 people hospitalised as of Monday with flu-like symptoms - a rise of 300 since last week. Alongside the usual seasonal flu and colds, norovirus, often referred to as 'the winter vomiting bug', is also on the rise. So what do you need to know about norovirus? According to the HSE website, norovirus causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It is one of the most common stomach bugs in Ireland. It's also called the 'winter vomiting bug'. This is because it's more common in winter. But you can catch it at any time of the year. Norovirus can be unpleasant but it usually clears up by itself in a few days. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home. Try to avoid going to your GP, as norovirus can spread to others very easily. Symptoms of norovirus You're likely to have norovirus if you: feel sick get sick (vomit) have diarrhoea Some people also have a slight fever, headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching limbs. The symptoms start 1 to 2 days after you become infected and last for up to 2 or 3 days. Treatment for norovirus The best thing to do is to stay at home until you're feeling better. There's no cure for norovirus, so you have to let it run its course. Antibiotics will not help because it's caused by a virus. You do not usually need to get medical advice unless there's a risk of a more serious problem. How norovirus is spread Norovirus spreads very easily in public places such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools. You can catch it if small particles of vomit or poo from an infected person get into your mouth. This can happen through: close contact with someone with norovirus - they may breathe out small particles containing the virus that you could inhale touching contaminated surfaces or objects - the virus can survive outside the body for several days eating contaminated food - this can happen if an infected person does not wash their hands before handling food You are most infectious from when your symptoms start until 48 hours after all your symptoms have passed. You may also be infectious for a short time before and after this. You can get norovirus more than once as the virus is always changing. Because of this, your body is cannot build up long-term resistance to it. Preventing norovirus It's not always possible to avoid getting norovirus, but following the advice below can help stop the virus spreading. Stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed. You should also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Do not rely on alcohol hand gels, as they do not kill the virus. Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. It's best to use a bleach-based household cleaner. Wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash to ensure the virus is killed. Don't share towels and flannels. Flush away any infected poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area. Avoid eating raw, unwashed produce. For more information, visit the HSE website here. Part of the Holyhead ferry port will reopen on January 16, after damage caused by Storm Darragh meant it was forced to close over the Christmas period. The ferry company Stena Line, which owns the port in Anglesey, North Wales, confirmed it would reopen the Terminal 5 berth subject to reasonable weather conditions. It is yet to provide a timeline for the reopening of Terminal 3. A statement on Monday said: After diligent assessments and planning, we can now confirm that the timeline for reopening the Holyhead Terminal 5 ferry berth by January 16 2025 remains achievable. This prediction is subject to reasonable weather conditions, and we will provide further updates as our progress continues. All ferry services between Dublin and Holyhead have been cancelled over recent weeks, affecting thousands of people travelling to and from Ireland over the festive period. Stena Line said that on the weekend Storm Darragh hit, December 6-7, there were two incidents at the berth at Terminal 3. It said that this resulted in part of the structure collapsing and rendering it unusable. Damage was feared to have been much worse than initially thought and a spokesman for the Port said it had been necessary to perform underwater inspections of the structural integrity of the adjacent Terminal 3 and Terminal 5 berths. Taoiseach Simon Harris said earlier this month that the seriousness of the damage was becoming more apparent as the days go by. On the latest announcement, Stena Line added: Up until the reopening of the Terminal 5 berth, alternative routes for travel include Birkenhead to Dublin (motorists only), Fishguard to Dublin, Fishguard to Rosslare, Cairnryan to Belfast and Liverpool to Belfast. A spokesman for Irish Ferries said: With clarity now on the situation for the coming weeks, Irish Ferries will continue to review what further route measures are required to ensure the needs of its passenger and freight customers are met. With a phased re-opening plan of Holyhead port that involves more limited berth availability, Irish Ferries has agreed a timetable with the other operator that will allow Irish Ferries to operate full schedules into Terminal 5. by Ray Schultz , December 30, 2024 A magazine devoted to AI-generated art debuted earlier this month. The mission of The AI Art Magazine is to celebrate the fusion of creativity and intelligent machines, its website says. Freezing of art in a tangible printed form while AI is evolving rapidly. Based in Germany, the bi-annual AI Art Magazine does not yet have any advertising, Forbes reports. The first issue features 76 pages of artwork. This was selected by jurors after being submitted in response to an international open call, Forbes writes. The jury is made up of graphic designers and photographers. Assuming it takes off, the publication could be of use to art directors and editors who are considering AI as a possible tool. The AI Art Magazine also offers a free newsletter. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, December 31, 2024 Media marketing consultant and auditing firm ID Comms is out with a review of the big media-related events, people and trends that mattered in 2024 via its podcast, MediaSnack, hosted by its two CEOs David Indo (London) and Tom Denford (New York). Topping the list is the proposed Omnicom-IPG tie-up announced earlier this month, which Denford noted would provide unrivaled capabilities across data, technology, media bargaining power and other benefits. The potential downsides, however, would be massive layoffs and conflicts that could spark brand defections. advertisement advertisement Elon Musk also made this years list in part for his taking on the World Federation of Advertisers, claiming the group urged members and others to boycott X. Love him or loathe him you cant ignore him, said Indo. A continuing trend is the deteriorating trust among advertisers and agencies, particularly on issues related to the advertising supply chain. Advertisers are designing for greater transparency, and they are increasingly doing it in-house, noted Denford. Principal buying continues to gain momentum, and clients have to be mindful of the transparency issues that will never fully go away, said Indo, because many agencies will not disclose markups. Theres nothing wrong with it, he added. But clients need to be aware that its impossible to audit. On the AI front Denford opined that marketers and agencies are well advised to leverage the effectiveness potential of the technology versus the efficiency potential. The latter, he said, is problematic given the risk of ad fraud and other bad behavior in a race to the bottom on costs. Striving for effectiveness, he added, implies utilizing AI in a race to the top for competitive advantage by making smarter buying decisions. WASHINGTON -- A 34-year-old soldier serving with the Indiana National Guard in Iraq has died in a non-combat incident, the Army said Monday. Capt. Eric Richard Hart, 34, of Indianapolis, died Saturday in Iraq, the Army National Guard said in a statement. Hart was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion of Indiana's 38th Infantry Division in Iraq. His death is under investigation. While all combat operations have ceased for U.S. forces in Iraq, the U.S. maintains a presence of 2,500 troops to assist the Iraqi military in counter-Islamic State operations and training. Those forces have repeatedly come under attack in the 14 months since Hamas attacked Israel, spurring a wider, deadly response from Tel Aviv. Read Next: The Top 10 Military.com News Stories of 2024 During the last year, Iranian-backed forces have launched one-way attack drones, rockets and missiles at U.S. facilities in Iraq in response to Israel's military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. In September, the U.S. announced an agreement with the Iraqi government to wrap up the American-led coalition's military mission against the Islamic State group in Iraq by 2025. U.S. troops have departed some bases that they have long occupied during a two-decade-long military presence in the country. Washington has had a continuous presence in Iraq since its 2003 invasion. Although all U.S. combat forces left in 2011, thousands of troops returned in 2014 to help the Iraqi government defeat IS. Read Next: Purple Heart Medal's Owner Identified as 'a Man's Man' Who Fought in WWII Since the extremist group lost its hold on the territory it once seized, Iraqi officials have periodically called for a withdrawal of coalition forces, particularly in the wake of a U.S. airstrike in January 2020 that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis outside the Baghdad airport. Before Monday's announcement, a total of 4,419 troops had died in Iraq since the beginning of the 2003 Operation Iraqi Freedom military campaign, including 3,482 combat deaths and 937 non-combat deaths, according to the latest Defense Department data. A total of 31,993 troops were wounded in action in Iraq. The Defense Department's summary does not include all of the forces who returned from war with wounds that surfaced later, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or toxic exposure. Read Next: Tricare West Region Beneficiaries Urged to Change Payment Information Before Jan. 1 President-elect Donald Trump's nominees to lead the Pentagon and other key national security and veterans agencies face a pivotal month in January as the Senate gets to work in earnest on confirming Trump's Cabinet. Perhaps in the most precarious position, Pete Hegseth, Trump's pick for defense secretary, is scheduled to appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Jan. 14 for his confirmation hearing. It could be a make-or-break moment for the nominee, who has been dogged by allegations of sexual misconduct, alcohol abuse and mismanagement at previous jobs. At least one other national security nominee is also facing an uphill climb to confirmation: Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's choice to be director of national intelligence. Meanwhile, the nominee to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, former GOP Rep. Doug Collins, appears to be on a glidepath to confirmation, while Trump's choices for military service secretaries have been quietly toiling away on the confirmation process while the spotlight is on Cabinet-level appointments. Read Next: The Top 10 Military.com News Stories of 2024 In Hegseth's case, he spent much of December barnstorming the Capitol seeking to shore up support among senators. The efforts may have borne some fruit, as some Republicans seen as potential "no" votes have shifted their rhetoric after closed-door meetings with him. Still, with the thin margins in the Senate, how Hegseth answers publicly at his confirmation hearing could prove decisive. "I obviously always wait until we have an FBI background check, and one is underway in the case of Mr. Hegseth, and I wait to see the committee hearing before reaching a final decision," Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, told reporters Dec. 11 after meeting with Hegseth. The new session of Congress that will usher in GOP control of the Senate starts Friday, ahead of Trump's inauguration Jan. 20. In the intervening weeks, the Senate is expected to focus on getting ready to confirm Trump's Cabinet as quickly as possible after he is sworn in. National security nominees are typically confirmed within days, if not hours, of the inauguration. For example, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was confirmed two days after President Joe Biden's inauguration, and Trump's first defense secretary in his first term, Jim Mattis, was confirmed on Inauguration Day. Hegseth faces far more uncertainty than either Austin or Mattis, who both garnered widespread bipartisan support. Hegseth's prospects have been in doubt since he confirmed he paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault in exchange for her signing a nondisclosure agreement. Later, police records revealed more details about the alleged assault. The New Yorker also reported on allegations that Hegseth was repeatedly intoxicated on the job when he led conservative veterans group Concerned Veterans for America and mismanaged funds at another veterans group he led called Vets for Freedom. And NBC News reported that Hegseth's former colleagues at Fox News also expressed concern about his drinking. Hegseth has vehemently denied the allegations against him, contending the lack of charges against him in the assault case means police "completely cleared" him and that the allegations of mismanagement at the veterans groups were leveled by "disgruntled people." He has also insisted he does not have a drinking problem, characterizing his drinking as typical of veterans even as he has pledged to stop drinking entirely if he is confirmed to lead the Pentagon. "This is the biggest deployment of my life, and there won't be a drop of alcohol on my lips while I'm doing it," Hegseth, a National Guard veteran, said in an interview with conservative media figure Megyn Kelly. Hegseth has also faced skepticism from senators about his opposition to women serving in combat roles. In recent weeks, Hegseth has softened his rhetoric on the issue and offered support to women in the military generally, though his comments have not directly contradicted his previous opposition to women in combat. Amid the allegations and controversial past policy stances, some Republican senators have refused to publicly state their position on him. While it's not unusual for senators to be tight-lipped before a confirmation hearing, Hegseth can afford to lose only three Republican senators and still be confirmed, assuming all Democrats vote against him. Some Republicans initially seen as possibly opposing Hegseth have shifted their comments about him in subtle yet noticeable ways after Hegseth's office visits, as well as an intense pressure campaign from Trump supporters that included threats of primary election challenges. Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, a combat veteran and sexual assault survivor who said after one meeting with Hegseth that she wasn't ready to support him, said after a second meeting with him that she will "support Pete through this process" and that she looks "forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources." Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who at one point called the allegations against Hegseth "very disturbing," similarly contended in a statement after a meeting with Hegseth that "the accusations being made regarding financial management of veterans service organizations and personal misconduct should only be considered by the committee if they are supported by testimony before Congress -- not anonymous sources." Graham added in an interview with "Meet the Press" that Hegseth would release the woman accusing him of sexual assault from the nondisclosure agreement. Hegseth's lawyer has also said she's been released from the nondisclosure agreement, but threatened to sue her if she goes public. Meanwhile, as Hegseth fights to be confirmed, the team that would work under him at the Pentagon is shaping up. Trump has not yet nominated an Air Force secretary, but has chosen his Navy and Army secretaries. John Phelan, a financier and GOP donor, was nominated to lead the Navy and Marine Corps, and Dan Driscoll, a businessman, Iraq War veteran and adviser to Vice President-elect JD Vance, was picked to lead the Army. While Phelan lacks any military policy experience and Driscoll has never led a large organization, no vocal opposition has emerged yet to either nominee. They have not attracted the entourage of cameras and reporters Hegseth's visits have, but the two have also been visiting senators to lock up support prior to their confirmation hearings in the coming weeks. Trump has also nominated a smattering of Pentagon deputies, including businessman Stephen Feinberg as deputy secretary of defense; conservative national security hand Elbridge Colby for undersecretary for policy; first Trump administration alum Michael Duffey for acquisition chief; former Uber executive Emil Michael for undersecretary for research and engineering; and VA medical center director Keith Bass for assistant secretary for health. Potentially also facing a rocky path to confirmation is Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman who reregistered as a Republican earlier this year, who would oversee the intelligence community and produce the president's daily brief if confirmed as director of national intelligence. Gabbard's troubles stem from appearing sympathetic to the now-toppled Assad regime in Syria and echoing Russian propaganda. While in Congress, Gabbard, a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve, secretly met with Bashar Assad, said he "is not the enemy of the United States," and questioned U.S. intelligence that Assad carried out several chemical weapons attacks against his own people. More recently, in 2021, Gabbard promoted the debunked conspiracy theory, pushed by Russia, that the U.S. was funding biolabs in Ukraine. As with Hegseth, no Republican senators have explicitly come out in opposition to Gabbard. But former intelligence and national security officials have been lobbying senators to reject her. On Tuesday morning, Trump used the social media platform he owns to urge Republicans to "BE SMART AND TOUGH" to get his nominees confirmed. One nominee that so far appears to be breezing toward confirmation is Collins to be VA secretary. Despite some initial surprise around the pick since Collins did not focus on veterans issues during his time in Congress, lawmakers and veterans groups alike have given the Air Force Reserve chaplain positive reviews as he makes his own rounds in Washington. "After hearing from Representative Collins and the transition team senior staff, it is clear to AMVETS that he has a firm understanding of how important the VA and its policies are to veterans and their families," AMVETS National Executive Director Joe Chenelly said in a Dec. 12 news release. "He has committed to safeguarding veterans' benefits and addressing the VA's key issues." Related: 'He's Going to Have to Explain It': Surprise Defense Secretary Pick's History Takes Center Stage A military court of appeals on Friday dismissed the final convictions against two Marine Raiders embroiled in a yearslong legal saga stemming from the 2019 death of a Green Beret veteran working as a contractor in Iraq, ending a winding chronicle that rattled the military justice system. The Marines, along with Navy Chief Petty Officer Eric Gilmet, were accused of causing the death of retired Army Master Sgt. Rick Rodriguez, who died days after one of the Raiders punched him outside of a bar in Irbil, Iraq, in what defense attorneys argued was an act of protection. Gilmet's case was dismissed in 2023. And last year, a military jury found the two Marine Raiders -- Gunnery Sgts. Daniel Draher and Joshua Negron -- not guilty of their most severe charges: involuntary manslaughter, negligent homicide and dereliction of duty. Read Next: The Top 10 Military.com News Stories of 2024 But the jury did find Draher and Negron guilty of violating a lawful order: drinking in theater. The jury did not recommend any punishment with the decision, but an attorney for the Marines told Military.com on Monday that the conviction carried the weight of a felony, meaning that it would follow them into their civilian lives, prohibiting them from owning firearms and restricting their right to vote in some states, for example. On Dec. 27, the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals dismissed the drinking convictions "with prejudice," meaning that the ruling is final, and while the government can still file an appeal in the coming days, the Raiders' attorney, Phillip Stackhouse, a Marine veteran, thinks that's unlikely. "It was a substantial case that lasted an extraordinarily long time; it's over though," Stackhouse said. The lawyer noted that there are still lingering "collateral consequences" stemming from the case that they plan to pursue, such as correcting the Raiders' discharge records and recouping pay or promotions that they missed out on as the case dragged on for years. But nearly six years after the deadly bar fight, "their records are clean," Stackhouse said. In a social media post announcing the dismissal, he wrote: "And the MARSOC 3 are free." A spokesperson for Marine Special Operations Command, or MARSOC, told Military.com in an email Monday that the command is aware of the dismissal of both cases. When asked whether the Marine Corps intends to appeal the dismissals, the spokesperson, Maj. Johnny Henderson, said: "The decision whether to appeal is governed by the [Uniform Code of Military Justice] and pertinent regulations. At this time, MARSOC cannot comment on whether there will be further proceedings in this matter." New Year's in Iraq and an 'Earthquake' of a Case On New Year's Day 2019, Gilmet, Draher and Negron, dubbed the "MARSOC 3," as they had become known, were in Irbil celebrating. They had arrived at the bar in the early morning hours and, at some point, Rodriguez, a 45-year-old contractor, Green Beret veteran and father of four who had already been drinking at the bar, said hello to Gilmet, placing his hand on his back in what appeared to be a friendly manner. According to security footage shown at the trial, Rodriguez then became aggressive with Gilmet before being restrained by bouncers and kicked out of the bar. The MARSOC 3 encountered Rodriguez outside the bar minutes later. While the footage is grainy, it appeared that Rodriguez poked Draher in the chest and then moved his head toward the Raider. Draher then pushed Rodriguez, who in turn appeared to punch Draher in the face several times. In what the defense argued was an effort to protect Draher, Negron punched the Green Beret veteran, sending him hard onto the ground on his head. The group did not immediately take Rodriguez to the hospital and instead left him with Gilmet, a corpsman, to tend to him. That morning, Rodriguez stopped breathing; he was pronounced dead days later in a hospital in Germany. The case garnered significant media and congressional attention, but within military justice circles was seen as "an earthquake of a case," Gilmet's attorney, Colby Vokey, a Marine veteran, told Military.com on Monday. And part of the reason it was so profound and rattling to the military justice system was because of something called unlawful command influence. Before Gilmet went to trial, a top Marine judge advocate, Col. Christopher Shaw, influenced Gilmet's right to a defense counsel by "creating the perception in the minds of Appellant's defense counsel that their future in the Marine Corps would be jeopardized if they continued to zealously advocate for Appellant," according to an opinion delivered by Judge Liam Hardy last year. Shaw told a group of military defense attorneys that they "may think they are shielded, but they are not protected" from outside influences, according to testimony referenced in the opinion, a statement that defense attorneys in the room -- including the one who was representing Gilmet at the time -- interpreted as meaning their careers would be jeopardized if they continued to defend their clients ardently. The statement proved to be a turning point in the saga, and Shaw's words reverberated throughout the Defense Service Office, or DSO, subsequently tainting the case for years. As a result, Gilmet's case was dismissed in August 2023. And given that the two Marine Raiders were cleared by a jury months before of involuntary manslaughter, negligent homicide and dereliction of duty, they'd hoped the drinking conviction -- a comparatively minor crime that other service members who stood witness at the trial also admitted to but were not punished for -- would be commuted. But the then-commander of MARSOC, Maj. Gen. Matthew Trollinger, decided not to dismiss that conviction, marking the duo as felons and limiting their ability to make a living in their civilian lives off of the weapons skills they learned in the service, among other restrictions. Speaking generally of the military justice system, David Gurfein, the CEO of United American Patriots, an organization that raised awareness, lobbied with Congress and raised money in support of the MARSOC 3, told Military.com that, "even if they get off the most serious charges, there's always one lesser charge that's thrown in to make sure that the military gets their pound of flesh." Of the unlawful drinking convictions, he said, "That felony conviction means that their whole professional lives of being professional war fighters, being competent in handling firearms and training others in the use of firearms -- that whole next step in their life where perhaps they would be able to monetize that and be able to make a living for their families -- now that was cut off to them." But the specter of Shaw's words returned on Friday. In dismissing Negron's and Draher's drinking convictions, the presiding judge cited "unlawful command influence" as tainting the proceedings, referencing Shaw's "pernicious" remarks. "It is difficult to conceive of a more sophisticated, premeditated, and ruinous assault on a load-bearing pillar of military justice -- the independence of the military's defense bar from unlawful command influence," the opinion of the court said. "This case ably demonstrates why unlawful command influence remains the mortal enemy of military justice." Stackhouse, the Raiders' lawyer, said that the MARSOC 3 would have still been cleared of the most serious charges, but if "Shaw would have never went to Camp Lejeune and never opened his mouth once ... I think the result would have been [that] all three would have been convicted of drinking in Iraq. That's it. Not guilty of everything else." United States v. Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Draher Before New Year's Day 2019, Draher felt that his time had finally come. He joined the Marine Corps following 9/11 and, after nearly 20 years in the service, he'd participated in a bevy of deployments, had been wounded in combat and earned the Purple Heart. Things were looking up: He was due for promotion, his wife was pregnant, and he was going to take on new leadership roles within MARSOC. "I was this big, bright shiny object, and within a couple seconds, which turned into a couple days, then all of a sudden, I was nothing, and I was a problem and they needed to get rid of me," he told Military.com in an interview Monday. "But I was still a human being and still had sacrificed all the things that I had sacrificed leading up to that point, and I had a family at the end of the day," he said. Draher said that, in the six years his case worked its way through the military legal system, often hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, he was "getting beat down." His reputation tarnished, he was stripped of a security clearance and special pay for elite operators doing dangerous jobs, and his command isolated him, he said. He lost friends, though some of that was for the better, he added. "You can go from one to the other, like a flip of a light switch. And I think that there's a problem with that," he said. "I was good enough for the Marine Corps to say they wanted to promote me, and within minutes, they were looking at everything they could do to get rid of myself and my two other mates. There's definitely some problems. I hope that we highlighted some of those problems, and I hope that they can start to work on some of those problems." When he heard the news that the final conviction tied to the case had been dismissed Friday, he almost didn't believe it at first. What's next? He's not sure. One step is trying to scrub the adverse comments relating to misconduct in his discharge paperwork. He could have been a master gunnery sergeant by now, two ranks above what he retired at, he said. With the felony-equivalent conviction dismissed, Draher said he can live his life "without limits," and possibly take advantage of the skills he learned in MARSOC, such as using his weapons training to make an income, adding "that opportunity was taken away from me, and maybe now I got it back so I can figure out something to do with that." "We still don't get that time back," he added. Draher said that he had always been passionate about the institutions he was a part of, especially MARSOC. But he ended up having to look at his legal case as a battlefield. "I never would have thought that I'm now viewing my enemy as the United States Marine Corps or the United States government," he said. "Because I stared at a piece of paper for well over five years that said ... 'United States v. Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Draher.' That's a heavy thing to sit with, especially with all of the stuff that we've been through and all the sacrifice -- not just that I made, but collectively -- that everybody made." Related: How the Marine Corps Is Changing to Keep Talented Marines in the Service PESHAWAR, Pakistan Pakistani security forces in 2024 suffered the highest casualties in nearly a decade while battling insurgency, an Islamabad-based research group said. The Center for Research and Security Studies said in its report Tuesday that this year was the deadliest for Pakistani security forces in 9 years. On average, nearly seven lives were lost daily, according to the report which tallied at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks. The data was released as militants mounted separate attacks on Tuesday on a security post, a government office and a police van in the country's restive northwest, which borders Afghanistan, killing a policeman, and two civilians, including a child. An officer was also wounded in the first attack at the Draban Post in Dera Ismail Khan, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, local police official Abdullah Khan said, adding that the civilian was an employee of the Customs department. A child was killed in the second attack when a roadside bomb went off outside a government office in South Waziristan, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a police official Hayat Khan said. Also Tuesday, a roadside bomb struck a police vehicle in the northwestern Bannu district, wounding seven people, police said. No one claimed responsibility for the attacks, but suspicion was likely to fall on the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, who often target security forces across the country, especially in the former tribal regions in the troubled northwest bordering Afghanistan. The Center for Research and Security Studies said its latest report was based on data collected from open sources, mainly media outlets. In Pakistan, the military doesnt regularly confirm causalities among troops. Equally alarming were the cumulative losses of civilians and security personnel, i.e. 1612 fatalities, accounting for over 63% of the total recorded this year and marking 73% more losses compared to 934 outlaws eliminated, it said. Abdullah Khan, the managing director of the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, released a report on Tuesday documenting the deteriorating law and order situation, saying Pakistan witnessed a 40% surge in militant attacks in 2024 compared to 2023." He said officers killed 950 militants this year, while 527 security forces and 489 civilians died in militant attacks. There was no immediate comment from the military on either report. Last week, military spokesman Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif told a news conference that 925 insurgents were killed in 2024, a record high compared to the past five years, while 383 soldiers were killed in such operations. He also said Pakistani security forces this year conducted 59,775 operations against insurgents in the country. Pakistan in recent months has stepped up intelligence-based operations against the Pakistani Taliban, emboldened since the Afghan Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP is a separate group but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban. ___ Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Rasool Dawar in Peshawar and Ishtiaq Mahsid in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, contributed to this report KYIV, Ukraine Russia launched an aerial attack on Ukraine on Tuesday, striking the capital and other regions with multiple missiles and drones. Ukraines air force reported a ballistic missile threat at 3:00 a.m. (0100 GMT), with at least two explosions heard in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was issued at 8:00 a.m. followed by at least one explosion in the city. Missile debris fell in the Darnytskyi district of the capital with no reports of casualties or damage, the local administration said. Authorities in the northeastern Sumy region reported strikes near the city of Shostka, where the mayor, Mykola Noha, said 12 residential buildings had been damaged as well as two educational facilities. He said some social infrastructure objects were destroyed, without providing detail. The air force also reported missiles and drones targeting several other regions of Ukraine. In Moscow, the Russian Defense Ministry said that its forces successfully struck a Ukrainian air base and a gunpowder factory. Around half of Ukraines energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Kyivs Western allies have provided air defense systems to help Ukraine protect critical infrastructure, but Russia has sought to overwhelm its air defenses with combined strikes involving large numbers of missiles and drones. Russian attacks come as uncertainty looms over the course of the nearly three-year conflict. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office next month, has vowed to end the war and has thrown into doubt whether vital U.S. military support for Kyiv will continue. On Monday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will send an additional $2.5 billion in weapons to Ukraine as his administration works quickly to spend all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before Trump takes office. Ukraine has struck back at Russia with a steady barrage of missile and drone attacks throughout the year. Early Tuesday, Russia's Defense Ministry said that air defenses shot down 68 Ukrainian drones over several regions early Tuesday and sank eight uncrewed boats in the Black Sea. Head of the Smolensk region in western Russia, Vasily Anokhin, said drone fragments fell on the territory of an oil depot, sparking a blaze. In Russia-occupied Crimea, the Moscow-appointed head of the city of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, said that Russian defenses downed four aerial drones attacking the city and sank two uncrewed boats near the shore. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Military Intelligence Directorate, known under its acronym GUR, claimed that one of its naval drones on Tuesday shot down a Russian helicopter with a missile, marking the first time when an aerial target was destroyed by an uncrewed vessel. It said a MaguraV5 naval drone downed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter with an R-73 missile near Cape Tarkhankut, the westernmost point of the Crimean peninsula. Another Russian helicopter was damaged but managed to reach an airfield, GUR said. Russia has held the initiative this year as its military has steadily rammed through Ukrainian defenses in the east in a series of slow but steady offensives. Still, in August, Ukraine launched a raid into Russias Kursk region that caught Moscow by surprise, dealing a significant blow to the Kremlins prestige. The Russian army has been able to reclaim some territory of the area there from Ukrainian forces but has failed to fully dislodge them. WASHINGTON -- The United States military on Tuesday said it hit targets in Yemen targeting the Houthi militia, hours after the Iran-backed group launched attacks on Israel. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said its warships and aircraft attacked a number of Houthi-linked sites, including a command center and facilities used for the production and storage of weapons. The buildings reportedly held missiles and drones used in Houthi attacks on the U.S. Navy and international merchant ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. A radar facility and several of the militia's cruise missiles were also destroyed in the attacks on Monday and Tuesday, CENTCOM said. "The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region," the command said on X (formerly known as Twitter). The Houthi-affiliated television station al-Masirah reported at least 10 attacks by the U.S. and Britain in Yemen. Two of the strikes were reportedly aimed at the Houthi Defence Ministry in the capital Sana'a. Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam described the attacks as a "blatant breach of the sovereignty of an independent state." Houthis Attack Tel Aviv Like Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia, the Houthi are allied with Israel's arch-enemy Iran. Since the beginning of the Gaza war, the Houthi have repeatedly fired rockets at Israel and at merchant ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Hamas. On Tuesday, the militia claimed to have attacked the international airport in Tel Aviv as well as targets in Jerusalem. Houthi military spokesman Yehya Saree said in a televised statement that Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport and an electricity plant in the Jerusalem area had been attacked with ballistic missiles. He also claimed that a "major air attack" by the U.S. military with drones and cruise missiles had been repelled. "We are ready to confront any Zionist-American threats aimed at preventing Yemen from fulfilling its religious, moral and humanitarian duty towards Palestine," the military spokesman said. The Israeli military said that its air defences had intercepted a missile fired from Yemen. Hundreds of thousands of people rushed to shelters shortly before midnight when sirens sounded in the coastal city of Tel Aviv and other places in central Israel. The missile was intercepted outside Israel's borders, it said. According to local media, falling rocket debris did not cause any major damage, but a large fragment hit a road in a town near Jerusalem. 2024 dpa GmbH. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Jennifer Barnhill is a columnist for Military.com writing about military families. When a member of the military community dies by suicide, their neighbors, friends, brothers in arms, and families gather. Those in the community express their grief, offer support, try their best to be a salve, even if they don't know what to say. "That night we were notified, I had two conversations that I remember," Kristen Christy, Air Force spouse and master resilience trainer for the Air Force and the Army, recalled of the days following one of the worst days of her life. "One was a friend from church, and she came and said, 'Kristen, he's in the better place.' And in the rawness of the moment, I said, 'Why isn't the better place at home or at the dining room table?'" Read Next: Confirmation Battles for Hegseth, Other Trump Nominees Will Come to a Head in January Christy's husband had killed himself three days before he was set to accept the rank of colonel. The other conversation Christy remembered, while mostly focused that day on how to help her two sons, was simple but impactful. Her friend approached her and said, "Kristen, I have no words for you." And gave her a hug. The military community has expended substantial effort to eliminate suicide. It employs robust, evidence-based suicide prevention strategies, including an emphasis on lethal means safety, promoting mental health care and leveraging civilian partnerships. But are we so focused on suicide prevention that the larger community has neglected the families of the suicides we couldn't prevent? Do we move on too quickly after a death, quietly diminishing support for families to avoid the difficult conversations that are part of grief? While all loss is devastating, suicide carries additional stigmas. Survivors often ask themselves, "What could I have done?" These internal struggles, coupled with an unpredictable community response, can be devastating. When we respond with platitudes and phrases that make us feel comfortable, we may overlook the needs of the person we are trying to comfort. While there are military programs and resources available to survivors, they may not feel accessible to those who are actively grieving. And it's not just military spouses and children who are survivors. Monica Velez grew up in Lubbock, Texas, with her two younger brothers, Jose and Andrew. Jose joined the Army out of high school so he could get an education. Andrew followed his lead and later joined the Army. Tragedy struck their family when Jose was killed in action in 2004 while serving in Iraq. Andrew was told he would be escorting his brother's body home. "There were several days that my brother Andrew would call me, screaming on the phone for hours and hours and hours, and finally, one day, I couldn't take it, and I tried to call somebody on Fort Hood to go find him," said Velez. "He was just by himself in a hangar on a telephone, hadn't eaten, hadn't slept, had been sleeping near the casket." Velez shared that Andrew "did not handle it well" and began to look into getting a compassionate reassignment that would allow him to be stationed near his sister, who lived outside of Fort Hood, now renamed Fort Cavazos. "The day his [compassionate reassignment] paperwork got signed, within the hour, I got a phone call that my brother had died by suicide," said Velez. She was hurled back into grief, but this time her grief was coupled with regret. "One day I was like, 'OK, I'm OK. I got dressed, I did my hair, I did my makeup, I'm doing good," shared Velez. "And the next day, I'm like, I -- and forgive me -- I'm just going to pee on the bed today. I don't even care. Maybe if I just lie here long enough, I'll just die, and I won't have to deal with this pain anymore." Those competing emotions and thoughts are very common among family members of those who die by suicide. "There's a huge shame element," said Matthew Brown, who serves as a commander in the Navy Reserve and is the founder of Chimney Trail Health. Brown founded this organization after a member of his unit died by suicide. "If somebody in their circle or their tribe, so to speak, dies by suicide, they have to overcome this personalization, self-blame and shame before they ever do something for themselves." Military spouses are not particularly good at asking for help on a good day (speaking from personal experience), let alone on the worst day of their lives. However, not receiving proper support after a death by suicide can be devastating for survivors. Both of Christy's two sons later attempted suicide, as did Velez, underscoring a chilling statistic: Family members of suicide victims are three times more likely to die by suicide than other grieving families. This is why the Defense Department has expanded its support for survivors beyond next-of-kin notifications given to family members. All branches have casualty assistance officers who notify families of the death of a service member and provide information on how to file claims and access benefits. While survivors share that their delivery is often stiff and official, they are a useful resource immediately following a loss. Programs like the Army's Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) offer more continuity, providing financial planning, counseling resources and community events for Gold Star families. However, SOS is not universally accessible, particularly for survivors from other service branches or those stationed farther away from military installations where there are not robust communities. "The military did a great job right after," said Christy. What was lacking was sustained support from individual community members. She shared that it is not uncommon for the survivors to feel as though they simultaneously lose their loved one and, with them, their connection to the military community. Her sentiment reflects a common refrain: The initial response is often robust, but long-term support is inconsistent. However, things are changing, slowly. "As we're talking about [suicide] more openly, people now are more likely to come forward [to get help]. They're not met with the judgment and, you know, the shame and the stigma," said Dr. Carla Stumpf Patton, a suicide survivor and the senior director overseeing suicide prevention and intervention at Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). TAPS is a nonprofit founded in 1994 by survivors to offer resources and peer support to all those grieving a death in the military or veteran community. "It wasn't that long ago when these organizations now just didn't exist," said Stumpf Patton. "There weren't services for survivors." In the past, suicide survivors would be told they were ineligible for programs, resources and benefits that were available to families whose service members' cause of death were not stigmatized. Because they were not eligible for resources, suicide survivors were often "left alone to figure it out" on their own. However, Stumpf Patton said that the situation has improved, with more training, conferences and awareness around suicide prevention, intervention and "postvention." Suicide postvention is the organized and immediate response following a suicide that focuses on both short-term and long-term care for survivors. This change is the direct result of the work of suicide survivors. Brown left the military to start Chimney Trail Health. Stumpf Patton works at TAPS helping survivors daily. After fellow-survivors helped Velez process her grief, she decided to volunteer with the organization that helped her, the Travis Manion Foundation. It took Christy years before she was in a place where she could use her experiences to help others. But when she did, she also took aim at eliminating military suicide, by speaking out about her experience, both at home in the U.S. and abroad. Her work ultimately resulted in the establishment of the national suicide hotline, 988, which went live in 2022. Prior to launching 988, people in crisis could call 800-273-TALK (8255), the National Suicide Hotline since 2005. Christy says she pushed for the "three-digit number like 911 to make access easier." "It is not up to the family going through a trauma [to reach out] because they have those blinders on, the veil of despair and darkness," shared Christy. "It's up to the community members to rally around [survivors], even though it's uncomfortable. We have to be intentional on still reaching out to those family members." The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a trained crisis counselor, troops, veterans and their loved ones can dial 988, press 1; text 838255; or use the online chat function at www.veteranscrisisline.net. Related: Military Suicides Rose in 2023, Continuing Upward Trend Pentagon Sees as 'Real Change' A program lauched to help student educators in Michigan has already awarded tens of millions of dollars. In just over two years since the state began offering stipends to young student educators, over $80 million has been given out. MACOMB COUNTY, MI A Michigan man who caused a double fatal crash in Macomb County is heading to jail. Jose Eugeno Medina-Hernandez of Westland was sentenced to 270 days in jail, two years of probation and 50 hours of community service by Shelby Township District Court Judge Douglas Shepherd. Hernandez, 33, was driving a box truck southbound on M-53 in Shelby Township on June 6 when he rear ended a Buick Verano, triggering a chain reaction involving two other vehicles. The Buick occupants, 88-year-old Nancy Richmond and 63-year-old Crystal Brunn were killed in the crash. Medina-Hernandez was charged with two counts of moving violation causing death. A jury convicted him earlier this month. Our thoughts continue to be with the victims' families as they navigate the healing process after this profound loss, said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido in a statement. Assistant Prosecutor Mark Stepek requested that Shepherd take Medina-Hernandezs four previous accidents when sentencing him, according to a news release. The victims family members were in the courtroom and were satisfied with the judges sentence, prosecutors said. The U.S. Department of State is warning travelers to reconsider travel to a pair of destinations in Central America over violent crime and say three areas of one nation shouldnt be visited by Americans at all. On Monday, updated travel warnings were issued for those looking to visit Belize and Guatemala. In regards to Guatemala, officials advise reconsidering travel to most portions of the country, but deemed the areas of San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department and Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva as do not travel areas. Those areas experience a high level of gang activity, drug trafficking and other violent crime. Other areas of Guatemala are described as dangerous due to ongoing crime and a lack of police assistance in those areas. Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates. While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes, reads a summary included in the advisory. If you do decide to travel to Guatemala, some recommendations from the State Department include: Do not travel outside Guatemala City at night because the roads are poorly lit, and there is a high risk for serious traffic accidents. When visiting Lake Atitlan, use certified tour guides and travel between villages by chartered boat. The paths around the lake can be dangerous and hard to access. Emergency services cannot arrive quickly to help. Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow are very strong, and there are not many lifeguards. Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and say no to invitations from strangers to private parties. Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff. Along with the nation of Guatemala, the State Department also advised reconsidering travel to Belize City in the neighboring country of Belize. Officials say gang activity and violent crime in the southside of Belize City is particularly problematic and advise visitors to be highly aware of their surroundings if visiting. As for the country itself, travelers visiting Belize are asked to use extra caution, even in tourists areas and during the day. You should avoid showing off signs of wealth, avoid walking or driving at night and do not resist any robbery attempts. ANN ARBOR, MI Two cars were destroyed by a fire in an Ann Arbor parking structure early Monday morning. Fire crews were called at 6:08 a.m. Dec. 30 to West Medical Center Drive outside the University of Michigan Medical Center for a report of a fire on the sixth floor of the P1 parking structure, according to the Ann Arbor Fire Department. HOLLAND, MI Two Lakeshore nonprofits are working to close the gap in missing middle housing thanks to a $1.5 million grant. The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners awarded Jubilee Ministries $1 million and Lakeshore Habitat $500,000 from its board discretionary fund to advance the development of attainable for-sale housing in the county. Ottawa County has seen a burst of development in rental housing construction in recent years, but for-sale housing, particularly housing affordable to families earning 120% or less than the area median income, has lagged behind. Every one of our buyers has moved out of a rental, said Jubilee Ministries Executive Director Steve Grose. By building for-sale housing, the county is freeing up rentals. A lot of good things happen when somebody has the stability of owning a home, and Ottawa County has really recognized that and helped us move the needle on providing more for-sale housing. Jubilee Ministries and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity since 2021 have partnered on two developments to build dozens of homes in the Holland area. Park Vista Place, completed in 2022, included 10 homes. Vista Green is currently under development will include 24 townhouses and 18 single-family homes once complete. Both organizations plan to invest the money into their working capital funds so they spend less on loans and interest and more on building homes. The organizations plan to build about 11 new homes in 2025 in Ottawa County. Sometimes when we finish a project it can take 12 to 18 months to raise the capital you need before you can start another, said Habitat Executive Director Dave Rozman. This capital will allow us to move into the next project pretty seamlessly, so our hope is we can raise additional dollars so we can do even more units. The homes will come in two- and three-bedroom layouts and will be priced from $200,000 to $240,000 based on the buyers income. According to Housing Nexts 2021 Ottawa County Housing Needs Assessment, the county needs to build 15,731 additional housing units by 2025 to reduce the rate of home price appreciation and rent growth. Of those units, the county will need over 5,000 for-sale homes priced to serve the missing middle, or households that make too much money to qualify for subsidized rent levels, but dont make enough to afford market rate. These housing units, priced at about $150,000 to $249,999, represent the greatest need in Ottawa County. Despite this, the greatest number of housing units currently available in the county is priced at $300,000 or higher, according to the study. From my standpoint, weve got a lot of work to do, Grose said. If you go out in the Holland/Zeeland area, theres next to no housing for sale for under $250,000, and thats where were operating. Habitat works with homebuyers making 30-80% AMI, while Jubilee picks up from 80-120% AMI. According to the Michigan State Housing Development Authoritys 2024 income and rent limits, 30-120% AMI in Ottawa County translates to about $25,000 to $99,000 per year for a two-person household. Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter. JACKSON, MI Many police officers went Monday night to a Jackson apartment complex after shots were reportedly fired in the area. Police were called at 7:10 p.m. Dec. 30 to the Renaissance Apartments, 720 W. Michigan Ave., Jackson Director of Police and Fire Services Elmer Hit said. Officers arrived and found a glass entryway door on the south side of the building shattered. It is believed gunfire struck the door, Hitt said. Multiple shell casing were found at the scene and witnesses reported seeing several vehicles fleeing the area at the time of the shooting, Hitt said. No shooting victims have been reported and the shooting remains under investigation, Hitt said. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Jackson Police Department at 517-788-4100 or submit a tip anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 517-483-7867. Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter. KALAMAZOO, MI -- Most presidents visit dignitaries when they travel in other countries. During a 1996 trip to Hungary, former President Jimmy Carters focus was with a different crowd. Carter would rather build houses and meet with local fishermen, said Mark Bonham, the former chair of Habitat for Humanity Hungary who now lives in Kalamazoo. Bonham met Carter on that 1996 trip, during a project to build 10 houses in a small city near Budapest, Hungary. Carters devotion to public service left an impression on him. Whatever hes committed to, hes very committed to it, Bonham said. He didnt do things just for appearances. Carter died Sunday, Dec. 29. He was 100 years old. Bonham lives in Kalamazoo now and works as a pastoral counselor at Shepherds Heart, 5955 W. Main St. in Oshtemo Township. Carter was president from 1977 to 1981. But Bonham said Carters legacy is more evident in the work he did after his presidency. Since 1984, Carter has donated a week of his time every year to lead a Habitat for Humanity work project, according to Habitat for Humanity. Volunteers at Habitat for Humanity's Jimmy Carter Work Project 1996.Habitat for Humanity Carters high-profile status helped attract 500 volunteers to Hungary for the 1996 project, Bonham said. Each house had a team of 50 volunteers. Carter, clad in blue jeans with a tool belt on his hips, was in charge of one house. The temperature was temperate, like spring in Michigan, Bonham said. Every morning at 7 a.m., the air filled with the sound of hammers. Carter ate with volunteers. He slept in nearby student dormitories. Bonham remembered secret service agents saying Carter was fun to travel with because they were always going somewhere new. Volunteers clean up the worksite at the end of the Jimmy Carter Work Project 1996.PB While Carter worked, he was laser-focused on the task at hand, Bonham said. To the surprise of the Habitat for Humanity Hungary board, Carter couldnt even be interrupted to speak to the bishop at the Catholic cathedral in the town. Carter asked us to report to the bishop that he was busy building a home for one of the families and he could not stop for a private meeting, Bonham said. Carters approach was different when he ran into a group of fisherman at a local village. Carter told the fisherman he liked to fish. They asked if they could make him a fish dinner. But that wouldnt work. Carter had no way to prepare the dinner in the student dorms. So the fisherman offered to prepare the fish for lunch. But Carter ate lunch with the rest of the volunteers. How would it look to them if I were served a special meal while they ate sandwiches? Bonham recalled Carter saying. So the fisherman agreed to host Carter at their home the next night. But when Carter arrived, there was only a table set for he and his wife. Carter insisted the fisherman add more chairs so they could all share the meal together. It said a lot to those people, because they did not expect that, Bonham said. He went for the community and for the fellowship and the experience with them. When Bonham returned to Hungary 26 years later, he spoke with a resident at one of the homes they built. They were still in disbelief an American president helped build their house. That was beyond their ability to conceive of, for somebody that had that status (to) participate in that kind of thing, Bonham said. Carter was a common man who identified with people who had common problems, Bonham said. He knew some of the hardships that people face, Bonham said. And he was sensitive to that. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI A Southwest Michigan man was killed in a plane crash in Ohio, according to media reports. Robert Harris Coles, 46, of Vicksburg, Michigan, was the pilot of a small plane killed in a crash in Bratton Township around 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported, with information from the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The 1960 twin-engine Cessna 310D crashed into woods near 2173 Savage Road, the report says, and the crash is under investigation. Nobody else was in the plane at the time of the crash. Bratton Township is about 70 miles east of Cincinnati. Vicksburg is located in Kalamazoo County, about 15 miles south of the city of Kalamazoo. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. PORTAGE, MI The city of Portage is partnering with My Green Michigan to keep household food waste out of landfills through a new compost pilot program. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, food scraps can be dropped in special collection bins throughout the city for free. My Green Michigan will empty the bins every other Tuesday, according to a city press release. Portages waste will be industrially composted into a nutrient-rich soil and sold at Hammond Farms, according to the My Green Michigan website. The landscape supply company is about 70 miles northeast of Portage at 5834 N. Michigan Road in Dimondale, near Lansing. The one-year pilot program costs $11,460, city Communications Manager Mary Ruple said. The money was included in the 2024 general fund budget. The program is convenient for those who live and work in Portage. However, there are no fees or restrictions for those who live outside the city. Participants can collect scraps in a bucket, lidded container or compostable bag at home. To avoid odors, the city website recommends storing scraps in the freezer. Compostable materials include: Bread and grains Dairy products Meat and bones Fruit and vegetables Cooking oil and grease Eggshells Tea bags, coffee grounds and filters Chemical-free napkins and paper towels BPI certified products Glass, metal, plastic, pet waste and yard waste are not accepted, per the release. Scraps can be emptied into any of the 10 lime green, 64-gallon bins located in Portage parks: Westfield Park, 4500 W. Milham Ave. Harbor West Park, 3458 Summersong Path Marlow Street Cul-de-sac near Haverhill Elementary Portage Creek Bicentennial Park, 910 E. Milham Ave. Lakeview Park, 9345 Portage Road Oakland Drive Park, 7600 Oakland Drive Ramona Park, 8600 S. Sprinkle Road West Lake Nature Preserve, 9001 S. Westnedge Ave. Schrier Park, 850 W. Osterhout Ave. Lexington Green Park, 4750 Pittsford St. Animals will not be able to access the bins as long as lids are closed after use, according to the city website. Staff will monitor the bins daily. The pilot will run through December 2025, at which point city officials will evaluate results and determine the future of the program, per the release. Portage has always been committed to innovative ways to protect our environment, said City Manager Pat McGinnis. This pilot program is an exciting opportunity to reduce waste and create a more sustainable future for our community. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI - A man who founded a well-known fine arts camp is being remembered for the musical legacy he left behind. William Fritz Stansell, 92, founder of Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Twin Lake, died Saturday, Dec. 27. His death has led to an outpouring of memories being shared from Muskegon community members and former students at the camp, some who went on to become professional musicians. Stansell worked as a band and orchestra public-school teacher in Grant and Muskegon for more than a decade before leaving the field and opening Blue Lake, a nonprofit summer school of the arts, in 1965. The camp is modeled after his grandfathers Arens Art Colony, which served young artists from 1922 to 1948 in Door County, Wisconsin, and where Stansell spent his summers as a kid. The Blue Lake camp offers programs in music, art, dance and drama for elementary, junior high and high school students. There are also hundreds of performances during the camps Summer Arts Festival. Stansell, along with his wife Gretchen, created the International Exchange Program in 1970. The program coordinates not only American students traveling, performing and staying in Europe, but extends scholarships to European students to attend Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Blue Lake Public Radio first went on air in 1982. The station airs classical and jazz music and NPR news on WBLV 90.3 in Muskegon and WBLU 88.9 in Grand Rapids. His goal was to provide a quality experience in arts education for deserving children of all abilities, Stansells obituary reads. He knew that for the arts to survive in the future, not only must we cultivate the next generation of artists and musicians, we must also encourage the next generation of knowledgeable and appreciative audiences. Dozens of comments on the organizations Facebook page this week give a glimpse into the number of ways Stansell has affected musicians across the country. Visit Muskegon, a tourism department of the county, described Stansell as a visionary in the arts and culture scene of Muskegon County. Fritz inspired generations of young artists and musicians, fostering talent and a love for the arts, Visit Muskegon said in a prepared statement. His dedication has left a lasting impact on Muskegon County, enriching our community through music, education, and cultural opportunities. We are deeply grateful for all he has done to make Muskegon a destination for arts and culture. Alden Wagaman, who attended Blue Lake from 2014 to 2017 as a camper and counselor, attributes the camp as the reason he is now a full-time music teacher. (It was a) very formative time in my life, Wagaman said. He was a choir major, studied conducting and vocal jazz and participated in the chamber choir. I burst from my shell socially and became a huge extrovert, as well as had very powerful experiences making music with chamber choir. Christoph von Kuczewski-Poray, music director of the Blue Lake International Choir, directs a rehearsal at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp Monday, June 14, 2010. (Cory Morse|MLive file photo) Stansell received several recognitions over the years, including Michigan Governors Arts Award for Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp from Gov. John Engler in 1992, the Grand Rapids Federation of Musicians Lifelong Contribution to Music Award in 1993 and the American Bandmasters Association Goldman Memorial Citation in 2012. Those who knew Fritz will remember him for his wonderful sense of humor and wit, generous heart, unassuming personality, and immense knowledge of a variety of subjects in music, the arts, history, language and literature, the obituary stated. He was a lifelong learner, always reading, studying, traveling, observing, listening, and working toward understanding. Stansell was born in 1932 in Columbus, Ohio. He obtained a bachelors degree in music education at Michigan State University. His first teaching position was at Dansville Public Schools. He then served in in the U.S. Army. Later, he achieved a masters degree in education at Purdue University, then came to Michigan to teach all levels of band and orchestra in Grant, then Muskegon. Want more Muskegon-area news? Bookmark the local Muskegon news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Muskegon daily newsletter. A new Michigan law bans many landlords from rejecting tenants based on source of income, like housing vouchers, veterans benefits or Social Security. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed three Senate bills of a five-bill package Monday, Dec. 30, that prohibits landlords from discriminating based on source of income. Two remaining House bills have not yet been presented to the governor. Whitmer said the law could help 34,290 families afford a roof over their heads. I am committed to growing access to affordable housing so every Michigander can raise their family in a vibrant community, the governor said in a statement. Thats why I am proud to sign these commonsense bills that expand affordable housing options and protect Michiganders from housing discrimination. Under Senate Bills 205, 206 and 207, landlords cannot deny a renter housing based on their source of income including Section 8 housing choice vouchers, public assistance, veterans benefits, Social Security, supplemental security income or other retirement programs. The law only applies to landlords with five or more units. Related: Ann Arbor landlord sued for allegedly refusing to rent to people with housing vouchers Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, spoke in support of legislation when the Michigan Senate passed two of the bills last year. He said it will make it easier for people who have public benefits to find housing. We need to be doing more in this chamber to fight the affordable housing crisis and to make a space for all people to find stable housing in our state. This is a small step but its an important step, he said during an October 2023 legislative session. Eighteen other states have laws that bar landlords from rejecting tenants solely because of their housing vouchers. Additionally, 16 Michigan cities have previously adopted ordinances around source of income discrimination. The legislation also defines source of income within Michigans Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, meaning renters are allowed to sue if they believe landlords are denying them housing over their source of income. Tenants can also file complaints with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. The tie-barred bills HB 4062 and 4063 and SB 205, 206 and 207 were one piece of legislation to make it out of a chaotic lame duck period that screeched to a halt due earlier this month due to a lack of attendance. The Michigan Senate then pulled an all-nighter to get more legislation across the finish line. Michigan senators passed the House bills during a Dec. 11 session, but they have yet to land on the governors desk. More than two dozen organizations supported the bills, including the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the Michigan Association of United Ways and housing groups throughout the state. They are opposed by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, National Federation of Independent Business and the Property Management Association of Michigan. Several other housing-related bills did not survive the lame duck period including bills would expunge eviction records after two years and give tenants facing eviction the right to counsel. A package of bills that would give tenants the right to form unions, bills that would create new regulations around rental applications, and legislation that would overhaul Michigans mobile home park laws also didnt make it out of session. Whitmer also signed bills Monday to update the process for gathering evidence in human trafficking cases, expanding the age to have a courtroom support dog from 16 to 18 years old and providing tax breaks for data centers. Other recently passed legislation includes increasing aid for people who fall behind on utility bills, strengthening traffic safety laws and making it illegal to carry a gun at polling locations. Chinese travel platforms expect holiday tourism boom, as policy support boosts consumption Global Times) 09:10, December 31, 2024 As New Year's Day approaches, there has been a notable surge in Chinese consumers' interest in travel, with some online travel platforms on Monday reporting an increase in orders for trips, hotels, and flights and expecting a holiday tourism boom. This trend is boosted by vibrant cultural events and the availability of consumer vouchers in various localities. In particular, exciting new activities related to the ice and snow economy are encouraging spending. Zhou Weihong, a deputy general manager of Shanghai Spring Tour, told the Global Times on Monday that despite initial concerns about sales pressure due to the fact that New Year's Day falls on a Wednesday with only a single day off, young consumers have shown a preference for extending their trips to include the days before and after the holiday. "As of now, bookings that include the date of January 1, 2025, have surpassed those from the previous New Year's Day, with bookings for domestic tourism trips increasing by nearly 30 percent year-on-year," Zhou said, adding that the New Year's Day, winter vacation, and Spring Festival periods are crucial for promoting cultural and tourism consumption. A peak in travel bookings was observed around December 28, with a preference for long-distance domestic tours, according to Shanghai Spring Tour. Li Huijie, a resident of Shanghai, told the Global Times on Monday that she is taking her parents to the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, as well as Shenzhen in South China's Guangdong Province, for a six-day trip that combines the year-end annual leave, weekends, and the New Year's Day holiday. The demand for long-distance travel during the New Year's holiday has led to a significant increase in ticket prices for popular destinations, according to data sent by Tongcheng Travel to the Global Times on Monday. The average price of domestic flights between December 27 and January 1 has risen by over 20 percent compared to regular days. Specifically, the average ticket price for flights from major southern cities to Harbin, a renowned top ice and snow tourism destination in Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, has surged by almost 20 percent compared to the same period last year, according to Tongcheng. Tongcheng Travel also reported a notable increase in hotel bookings and nighttime tourism activities in places such as Chongqing, Chengdu in Southwest China's Sichuan Province, Changsha in Central China's Hunan Province, and Wuhan in Central China's Hubei Province, as people prepare to celebrate the New Year. Meanwhile, Chinese tourists are opting for high-quality travel experiences for the New Year's Day holiday, according to a report sent by Fliggy to the Global Times on Monday. For instance, bookings for high-end hotel brands directly operated by Fliggy increased by over 30 percent year-on-year. Outbound travel booking volumes surged by more than 80 percent year-on-year, based on a high base, according to Fliggy. There has also been a significant increase in bookings for international hotels and air tickets on the platform. International car rental bookings also saw a rise of over 40 percent year-on-year, the platform said. The upcoming New Year holiday will usher in a peak of inbound and outbound passenger flow in border ports across China, with the daily average of passenger trips reaching 2.05 million, an 18.8-percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to a forecast issued by the National Immigration Administration on Saturday. Notably, year-end and New Year consumer promotions are gaining momentum as various localities across China ramp up efforts to stimulate consumer spending through a range of vibrant promotional activities. During the 2025 New Year and Spring Festival period, the cultural and tourism departments of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region are organizing a series of traditional fairs showcasing local time-honored brands, intangible cultural heritage products, and traditional festive goods. In South China's Hainan, over 300 diverse tourism and cultural events will be held to promote consumption upgrades and cater to holiday travel demand, according to Xinhua. Winter tourism has also been a highlight. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism said at a press conference on Monday that it is encouraging and guiding local governments and platforms to implement promotional measures to stimulate winter tourism. For example, Yanqing District in Beijing will distribute 2 million yuan ($274,000) in winter tourism vouchers through travel platforms. Meanwhile, Jilin Province in Northeast China is collaborating with China UnionPay to issue 30 million yuan in winter tourism consumption vouchers, according to the ministry. Bian Yongzu, executive deputy editor-in-chief of Modernization of Management magazine under the China Association for Science and Technology, told the Global Times on Monday that with the support of various policies, New Year travel momentum, along with year-end shopping promotions, is expected to lay a solid foundation for consumption growth throughout 2025. "It is expected that the strength of consumer policies will be further enhanced next year. As China's economy undergoes transformation and upgrading, consumption will play an increasingly important role in this process. There may be more robust policies to further stimulate consumption and promote comprehensive growth in consumer spending across the nation," Bian said. The focus of macroeconomic policy is expected to place a stronger emphasis on consumption, Wu Chaoming, chief economist at Chasing Financial, told the Global Times on Monday. Wu said that in 2025, the scale of ultra-long special government bonds used to support large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins will increase and the scope of support is expected to expand from home appliances and automobiles to include consumer electronics and services. Outlining a number of key tasks for 2025, the Central Economic Work Conference urged efforts to vigorously boost consumption, improve investment efficiency, and expand domestic demand on all fronts. The large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in programs should be promoted with greater intensity and scope, and active efforts should be made to develop debut economy, ice and snow economy, and silver economy, according to the meeting. In the first three quarters of 2024, consumption contributed 49.9 percent of the country's economic growth, substantially surpassing investment and exports, which accounted for 26.3 percent and 23.8 percent, respectively. In the first 11 months, retail sales of consumer goods totaled nearly 44.3 trillion yuan, up 3.5 percent year on year, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Cao Heping, an economist at Peking University, told the Global Times on Monday that future policies may focus on providing targeted support and subsidies for products and services that align with consumer interests, which could help boost the economic recovery. "We may witness the rise of new consumption patterns, such as a growing interest in health-related products and trade-in programs for high-tech items," Cao noted. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Ondrej Becher to a three-year, entry-level contract. Becher, 20, was selected in the third round of the 2024 draft (80th overall) and has appeared in 19 games with the Grand Rapids Griffins (one goal, two assists, six penalty minutes). He will remain in Grand Rapids. Becher (6-1, 190), a native of Ostrava, Czechia, completed his junior career last season with Prince George of the WHL, ranking among the team leaders with 32 goals, 64 assists and 96 points and helping the Cougars reach the conference finals. A late bloomer, he made a 58-point improvement during his second year of juniors. He had been bypassed during the first two drafts for which he was eligible. Becher is the second player the Red Wings have signed from their 2024 draft class, following top pick Michael Brandsegg-Nygard. Anurag Kashyap reveals he is moving out of Mumbai in 2025, says, "going to south, disappointed, disgusted by my own industry" Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Netizen claiming to be Kriti Sanon's college mate makes accusation against theactress; fans come out in her support M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rashmika Mandanna completes 8 years in the industry, thanks fans for love and support 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept This bubble wrap dress by Balenciaga of Belarus is internets latest obsession Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept When Mithun Chakraborty was allegedly secretly married to Sridevi amidst his union with Yogeeta Bali M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept *Disclaimer - Brand Connect is a solution that allows brands to break the queue to gain better engagement among our audiences Alisha Naskar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 13 years. Danish Khan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Rohit Singh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arts and antiques in vogue for aesthetic Indians, imports surge 62% in 2024 Ishaan Gera USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Ishaan Gera USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sorry for loss in ethnic clashes, hope normalcy returns in 2025: Manipur CM Biren Singh Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Indian rupee may face pressure in 2025 as strong dollar, geopolitics, and RBI interventions shape outlook Manish M. Suvarna is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He writes on the Indian money markets, RBI, Banks and NBFCs. He tweets at @manishsuvarna15. Contact: Manish.Suvarna@nw18.com Manish M. Suvarna USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 62% of Nifty50 Companies have set carbon neutrality or net zero targets: IiAS Sustain Asha Menon USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Zoya Springwala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Anishaa Kumar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Asha Menon USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sunil Matkar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept As Mumbai's civic body cracks down on dust-spewing construction projects, developers shore up their act Shiladitya Pandit USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Aryaman Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Bhavya Dilipkumar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Khushi Keswani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why India needs more FTAs in an era of disruptions and rising protectionism Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years. Adrija Chatterjee USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ Christin Mathew Philip USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept CM Pinarayi Vijayan slams Nitesh Rane over 'Kerala is mini Pakistan' remark: 'Not fit to continue as minister' Parimal Peeyush USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chhabi Kala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Delhi metro update: No exit from Rajiv Chowk station after 9 pm on Dec 31; check DMRC advisory Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Leopard spotted on Infosys Mysuru campus: Employees to work from home on Dec 31; Trainees given a day off Christin Mathew Philip is an Assistant editor at moneycontrol.com. Based in Bengaluru, he writes on mobility, infrastructure and start-ups. He is a Ramnath Goenka excellence in journalism awardee. You can find him on Twitter here: twitter.com/ChristinMP_ Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Christin Mathew Philip USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept New bypass in Goa could be boon for tourists coming from Karnataka 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Nimisha Priya death sentence by Yemen: Extending all possible help, says MEA Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept J. Kumar is an author, journalist and a political commentator based in in Mumbai who writes on crime and Maharashtra politics. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Upcoming elections in India: Key battles that will shape India's political landscape in 2025 Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why Nimisha Priya, Indian-origin nurse, has been awarded death penalty in Yemen? Smriti Mishra USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Xi hails Carter's contribution to promoting ties 09:15, December 31, 2024 By Zhao Jia, Zhao Huanxin ( China Daily President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to United States President Joe Biden on Monday over the passing of Jimmy Carter, noting that the former US president was a driving force and decision-maker behind the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries more than 40 years ago. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, and in his own name, Xi extended profound condolences and expressed sincere sympathies to Carter's family. Xi said that Carter had long made significant contributions to advancing the development of China-US ties and fostering friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. "I was deeply saddened by his passing," he said. Noting that the China-US relationship is one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world, Xi said China is willing to work together with the US to promote sound, stable, and sustainable development of ties by focusing on the fundamental interests of both peoples and aligning with the expectations of the international community. Carter, the 39th president of the US, the longest-lived president in US history, and the winner of the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, died peacefully on Sunday at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family members, according to a statement from the Carter Center. In late 1978, Carter and then-Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping reached the historic decision to establish full diplomatic relations between the two nations on Jan 1, 1979, laying the foundation for the rapid growth of bilateral relations. Sharon Woodcock, the wife of Leonard Woodcock, the first US ambassador to China, said in an email interview with China Daily that Carter would be remembered for the courage, both political and personal, to move forward with the negotiations that led to the normalization of relations between the US and China. Carter did not visit China during his presidency from 1977 to 1981, but made his first trip to China in 1949 as a young naval officer. Carter remained a steadfast advocate for bilateral relations even after leaving office. He visited China in 1981, and since then has become a frequent visitor to the country. Carter met with President Xi on a number of occasions. "I consider the normalization of diplomatic relations with China as an especially historic achievement," Carter said in an interview with the Shanghai Institute of American Studies in 2019, adding that "normalization with China may have been the most beneficial to world peace and understanding". Reflecting on differences between Beijing and Washington, Carter remarked, "We also believed that the goals that bound us together mutual respect, the pursuit of peace, prosperity, and progress were much more important than the differences that divided us." Chas W. Freeman Jr., US assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs from 1993 to 1994, said that he remembered Carter "fondly", and that many people today may look at the Carter era nostalgically. Back then, "our conversations with China were more realistic and honest, and our strategic reasoning was better", Freeman told China Daily. Diao Daming, a professor of US studies at Renmin University of China's School of International Studies, said, "Although times and history are changing, China and the US should stick to the original aspiration of establishing diplomatic relations and jointly cope with changes. "The two countries stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation, and a healthy, stable, and sustainable bilateral relationship serves the interests of both nations and beyond these fundamental facts and principles remain unchanged," he said. Biden, who described Carter as an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian, has scheduled an official state funeral for Carter in Washington on Jan 9. He also declared that day a national day of mourning across the US to honor the late leader. According to the Carter Center, there will be public observances in Atlanta and Washington, followed by private interment in Plains. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Controversy over Places of Worship Act: Secularism, justice and religious harmony in India Avni Kritika Avni is a practising advocate at the Delhi High Court. She has a keen interest in socio-legal and political issues. Combining her legal expertise with a passion for social justice, she regularly writes and engages on topics that bridge law, society, and governance. Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Magicpin CEO Anshoo Sharma goes out on bike to deliver food on New Year's Eve Ankita Sengupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept France says it carried out missile strikes against ISIS in Syria last weekend Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept India monitors H-1B backlash in US, in touch with top IT firms for more clarity Sandeep Shrivastwa USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Putin says in New Year address that Russia will 'move forward' in 2025 Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept US Treasury says it was breached by Chinese-backed hacker Rohit Singh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept GCCs outpace IT in 2024; way ahead in job addition, export revenue Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Reshab Shaw USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Groveland, CA More details have been released about a weekend shooting in Groveland that was initially reported here. Authorities say Tuolumne County Sheriff deputies and a California Highway Patrol officer responded to reports of a shooting at approximately 6:25 a.m. on Saturday the 28th near Black Road and Highway 120. A caller told dispatchers that a man with a gun had been banging on his camper. The caller reported shooting the man, who fled the scene on foot. Shortly after the initial report, a 53-year-old man arrived at the Groveland Fire Station with a gunshot wound to his torso. Firefighters provided first aid until paramedics arrived. The man was later transported to a hospital in Stanislaus County for further treatment. Officials say he remains in stable condition at an undisclosed location. Deputies arriving at the scene detained 42-year-old Jonathan William Luczak and a female associate for further investigation. A firearm was discovered on the hood of a vehicle. Detectives from the Tuolumne County Investigations Division took over the case. After interviewing multiple individuals, detectives arrested Luczak on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm, a felony under California Penal Code 29800(a)(1). He was booked into the Dambacher Detention Center. The investigation remains active as detectives continue to interview witnesses and pursue additional leads. No further information has been released. Calaveras County Sheriff's Office logo View Photo Calaveras, CA An 80-year-old Wilseyville man was arrested Saturday night after a shooting at a residence left one person injured. Calaveras County Sheriffs deputies responded to a home on the 4400 block of Easy Bird Way around 8 p.m. on Dec. 28 after reports of a shooting. Authorities learned a male victim had been shot in the hand while trying to disarm the suspect, who had allegedly pointed a firearm at others in the home. The victim managed to escort several people from the residence before deputies arrived. the suspect, identified as Gerald Allgood, remained inside the home with several firearms. Deputies established a perimeter while ensuring the victim received medical treatment. Around 10 p.m., deputies entered the residence and arrested Allgood without further incident. He was booked into the Calaveras County Jail on multiple charges, including felony assault with a firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm, battery causing serious bodily injury, and misdemeanor brandishing of a firearm. Several firearms and other evidence were seized from the residence. The victim was treated for his injuries and is expected to recover. The Calaveras County Sheriffs Office credited its patrol staff for their quick response and safe resolution of the incident. U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued a statement regarding the death of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter. McConnell was Tuesdays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here is the Statement: Elaine and I join the Senate and the nation in mourning the passing of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter. President Carter lived a truly American dream. A devoutly religious peanut farmer from small-town Georgia volunteered to serve his country in uniform. He found himself manning cutting-edge submarines hundreds of feet beneath the ocean. He returned home and saved the family farm before feeling drawn to a different sort of public service. And less than 15 years after his first campaign for the state Senate, his fellow Americans elected him leader of the free world. Jimmy Carters character and commitment, just like his crops, were fruits of all-American soil. After every season when life led him to lofty service far from home, he came back home again, determined to plow his unique experiences and influence into helping others; into building and teaching and volunteering; into further enriching the same rich soil that had made his own life possible. 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. As Jimmy Carter is reunited with his beloved Rosalynn, our thoughts and prayers are with their children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and the millions of Americans whose lives were touched by his service. We join them in mourning, but also in celebrating that Jimmy Carter is now reaping an eternal harvest in Heaven. The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML. Insurance Commissioner Ricard Lara speaks in Sonora View Photo Sonora, CA It is commonly known that getting fire insurance is harder in the Mother Lode than in many other parts of the state. In response to an increase in mega fires over the past decade, there has been a spike in people being dropped from coverage and forced to sign up for the California Fair Plan. A new directive from California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is aimed at bringing back more insurance options. Insurers will be required to ramp up home coverage in high-risk areas if they want to keep doing business in other parts of California. Californians deserve a reliable insurance market that doesnt retreat from communities most vulnerable to wildfires and climate change, says Lara. According to details provided by Laras office, insurers will have to start increasing their coverage by 5% every two years until they hit the equivalent of 85% of their market share. To help insurance companies make up losses, the state will allow them to pass the costs of reinsurance on to Californian customers. Companies like to buy reinsurance to avoid huge payouts in case of natural disasters or catastrophic losses. California is the only state that doesnt currently allow the cost of reinsurance to be passed on to policyholders. The non-profit Consumer Watchdog group, however, is warning that the change will also drive up insurance costs. Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog, says, Tellingly the commissioner did not do a cost impact analysis of his plan on consumers. Thats because this plan is of the insurance industry, by the insurance industry, and for the industry. The Commissioner has left no opportunity for public comment on the regulation before it is final, by issuing it on an emergency basis. Lara, however, argues that the change is historic, adding, With input from thousands of residents throughout California, this reform balances protecting consumers with the need to strengthen our market against climate risks. The directive takes effect starting in 30 days. Additional details regarding the changes, provided by the Insurance Commissioners office, are below: What it means: Insurance companies must increase coverage in wildfire-prone regions, ensuring they write policies for at least 85% of their statewide market share, with annual increases until the threshold is met. More coverage for Californians in wildfire-distressed areas: All homeowners insurance companies must increase the writing of comprehensive policies in wildfire distressed areas equivalent to no less than 85% of their statewide market share, whereas there is no current legal requirement today for insurers to provide any coverage in high-risk areas. Companies will have to continue to increase by 5% every two years until they meet this threshold. Cost caps: The regulation treats reinsurance like other insurance company expenses allowed under Prop. 103 today such as claims handling or agent commissions by establishing an industry-wide standard cost of reinsurance and capping the amount of reinsurance costs that can be charged to consumers. Companies spending more than the industry standard cannot pass these costs onto their policyholders. Greater efficiency: Establishing a standard cost based on an index of what insurance companies spend encourages them to be efficient and compete for the best price for reinsurance, so consumers get the best value. California-only costs: The regulation limits costs to California-only, so consumers do not pay for the cost of Gulf Coast hurricanes or Midwest windstorms. Reliable rates: The regulation goes hand-in-hand with forward-looking wildfire catastrophe models that can better predict future rates. Under the current system of historical data, insurance consumers are paying balloon premiums and rate spikes after major wildfires, without increased availability. Prevents model-shopping: Model shopping describes when insurance companies choose one model that produces higher rates for consumers, and another that lowers their reinsurance costs. To prevent model shopping, the regulation requires insurance companies utilize the same model for both. This promotes more consistent approaches to assessing risks, and balances the scales for consumers. Largest insurance reform in 30 years: The new regulation is the final major element of the largest insurance reform in 30 years for California. The Department held multiple workshops and hearings in 2024, including a meeting on December 5 which was attended by more than 500 people and received 70 verbal and written comments which helped shape this regulation. Commissioner Lara has met with tens of thousands of Californians in all 58 counties across the state since taking office as well as testifying at four legislative briefings about his Sustainable Insurance Strategy over the past year. Note to readers: I penned this piece a few days ago before departing for a weeks holiday with my wife, her parents and friends of theirs in a small, remote fishing village south of Acapulco. However, the hotel were staying in is pretty rustic and does not have wi-fi, which means that: a) I should be able to properly disconnect from my work, and b) there will be no way of updating the article in the days before it goes live. In the interim, new developments may have occurred. I invite well-informed readers on the region to fill in any gaps. I also wish you all a very Happy New Year. Lets hope (against hope) that its not as bad as 2024. Will Trump take a more pragmatic approach to US relations with Caracas this time round? Or will he double down on an (until-now) failed strategy of sanctions escalation and attempted regime change? La madre de todas las investiduras! (The mother of all investitures!) That is how El Pais is describing the signing in of Nicolas Maduro for another presidential term on January 10, just 10 days before Donald J. Trumps investiture. As some are saying, there is a tense calm in the air in Venezuela. Just before Christmas, Venezuelas de facto opposition leader (and long-time CIA stooge), Maria Corina Machado, published a curious audio message on X/Twitter. In it, she called on all Venezuelan families, in particular relatives of Venezuelan soldiers and police officers, to do their bit to ensure that Nicolas Maduro does not serve another presidential term. In a hushed, insistent voice, Machado exhorted the mothers, sisters, wives and daughters of Venezuelas military and police officers to speak to their sons, brothers, husbands and fathers and tell them to serve the nation with loyalty and courage, and help put an end to the Bolivarian revolution: [I ask] you to tell him that he is not alone and that there is an entire country that needs him today, a country that has given everything for a change towards the future of union and prosperity that we, as a people, deserve She then gave this message to Venezuelas police and security forces: We are one step away from completing this long and arduous road that takes us back home, where we will finally hug each other again. The only wall that separates us from that longed-for end is that you, a solder, and you, a policeman, lose all fear of doing the right thing that which you, in the bottom of your heart, know you must do. Venezuelas (CIA-Sponsored) Iron Lady Machado is the de facto leader of Venezuelas main opposition coalition, the Democratic Unitary Platform (or PUD, for its Spanish initials), which claims to have won Julys elections. Unlike the PUDs official candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urritia, she is still in Venezuela, albeit in hiding. Often referred to by her supporters as Venezuelas Iron Lady, she is also the CIAs lady in Caracas. Her volunteer civil association, Sumate, founded in 2002, is directly funded and supported by the CIA, through the US soft-power arm, the National Endowment for Democracy. As is common knowledge, Gonzalez Urritia, whom the US government frecognised as Venezuelas president elect in November, is a mere place-holder for Machado. As Alan Macleod of Mint Press News notes, Machado was barred from standing for election due to corruption charges and because, for years, she has toured the world, attempting to organize a US-led invasion of Venezuela: In 2018, she also tried to convince Benjamin Netanyahu to greenlight an Israeli invasion of her country. She supported the 2002 coup against Maduros predecessor, Hugo Chavez, and led waves of terroristic violence across Venezuela, that targeted schools, hospitals, universities, public housing, and any other symbol of the collectivist society the chavistas are trying to build. The violence killed huge numbers of people and done billions of dollars of damage to the country. In any other country, she would have spent the rest of her life in prison, if not have been executed. But in Venezuela, her primary punishment is that she cant hold office for a certain time period. It is fairly clear what a Gonzalez-Machado ticket will mean for Venezuela: a government in thrall to the US and Israel and at the service of Western banks and corporations. Like Mileis government in Argentina, it will: Privatise state-owned companies and assets, including the jewel of the crown, Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), and its vast oil fields; Rapidly cool relations with the US main strategic rivals, China and Russia; Lend its full support to Israels genocide in Gaza and wider territorial aspirations in the Middle East, as well as the US strategic interests in Latin America. Like Milei, Gonzalez and Machado may even ask to join NATO as a global partner while no doubt supporting the military alliances operations in Ukraine. Winning the Hearts and Minds of Venezuelas Soldiers Its not hard to see why Machado is trying to win the hearts and minds of Venezuelas security forces. Without substantial support from the rank and file of Venezuelas police and military, her chances of toppling the Maduro government are wafer thin. And securing that support is not going to be easy: Maduro has been able to command the support of Venezuelas armed forces throughout the vicissitudes of his 11 year-presidency, including the guarimbas (pitched street battles) of 2014 and 2017 and the Juan Guaido-led coup attempt in 2019. That trend looks likely to continue. In fact, one opposition figure, Andres Velasquez, recently lashed out at Venezuelas military for continuing to stand by Maduro. Venezuelas Minister of Defence, Vladimir Padrino Lopez, has reiterated his loyalty to the government in recent months, stating before Christmas that the army will accompany Nicolas Maduro on January 10 in the inauguration for the next presidential term. We soldiers, he said, are aware of the great responsibility that means taking care of the decrees of popular sovereignty. In the meantime, Gonzalez Urritia insists he will be back in Venezuela on January 10 to take the reins of power. After fleeing to Spain on a Spanish Air Force Jet in early September, it is unclear how he will pull this off. Since arriving in Europe, he has been feted by Spains conservative opposition parties. Both the US government and the European Parliament have recognised him as Venezuelas true president elect. A week before Christmas, the European Parliament awarded Gonzalez Urrutia and Machado with the Sakharov Prize 2024 for Freedom of Thought 2024. The European Commission is hedging it bets, not recognising Maduro or Gonzalez Urritia. But it has announced a fresh round of sanctions against senior Venezuelan politicians due to the countrys lack of democratic transition. Having tried, so far unsuccessfully, to overturn election results in Georgia, a country that is not even an EU member, and having successfully annulled elections in EU member state Romania because the wrong man won the first round, the EU is still trying to give lessons to the worlds uncivilised jungle on democracy. As NC reader Vao recently commented, the EUs dismantling of democracy in Europe long predates its recent election shenanigans in Romania and Germany, not to mention its attempts to create the worlds most powerful digital censorship regime. Brussels rejection of the results of consultative referenda in France, the Netherlands and Ireland on the EU Treaty of Lisbon, over a decade ago, should have served as ample warning that European politicians abhor democracy rule by the people [P]oliticians really do not even want to hear an opinion that differs from what they have prejudged to be the right way'. Back to Venezuela: it is clear that it is not going to be easy for Gonzalez Urritia to get back into the country so that he can claim the crown that the US government, the European Parliament and other foreign governments have awarded him. The election results from July are still disputed, even though Venezuelas electoral authority gave the victory to Maduro. The Supreme Court has also supported Maduros claims while ruling that voting tallies published online by opposition parties showing Maduro lost by a landslide were forged. Yet the Maduro government has still failed to publish the real voting tallies, perhaps because the data was corrupted by alleged cyberattacks against the electoral system during voting. It is also true that the PUD coalition has failed to present conclusive evidence that it won over 70% of the votes, as it claims. An Executioner for Big International Capital Offers to Help While it is unclear exactly how Edmundo Gonzalez will get back to Venezuela in time for January 10th, one thing that is clear is that he will be able to count on the help and support of Western governments and intelligence agencies. Former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez (1982-96), a man who betrayed the left as emphatically as Tony Blair and Bill Clinton and whose friends include many of Latin Americas billionaire class, has offered to accompany Gonzalez Urritia, an old friend, on his return to Venezuela. It should hardly come as a surprise that Felipe Gonzalez is willing to help out in this way. For over four decades, he has promoted the neoliberal agenda in both Spain and Latin America. There is even speculation that he was a CIA asset. In 1982, a secret report by the CIA described the then-presidential candidate Gonzalez as a moderate who had distanced himself from the leftist policies he had proclaimed in the past. In short, Gonzalez posed no risk to US interests in Spain or those of its companies. Thats not all. In the words of James Petras, the US sociologist and expert on US imperialism in Latin America and the Middle East, Gonzalez signed the Moncloa Pact, in which all the crimes of Francoism were buried, unleashed privatisations in Spain and awarded hugely favourable conditions to the big banks. On leaving office, Gonzalez became an advisor to large companies and banks in Spain and internationally. Truly an executioner for big international capital. In an interview with a Uruguayan radio station in 2013, Petras descibed Felipe Gonzalez as not just a reactionary, but one of the most corrupt and immoral figures in the entire history of European social democratic politics. At the time, Gonzalez was advising Henrique Capriles, the former Venezuelan opposition candidate and scion of one of Venezuelas wealthiest and most influential families, in the elections of that year: Felipe Gonzalez worked with Alvaro Uribe, the assassin, narco-president of Colombia. Felipe Gonzalez supported the pro-death squad groups in Central America. When I was in Spain and Greece, I could see how the right-wing parties in El Salvador and Guatemala welcomed the support of Felipe Gonzalez Felipe Gonzalez is not for sale, he is for rent. Any right-wing ruler or leader can hire him for a fee. At least $300,000 are needed to secure Felipe Gonzalezs advice. It would seem that Venezuelas PUD coalition has lined Gonzalezs pockets sufficiently to secure his advisory services, both in Spain and in Venezuela. Spains Congress and Senate have already recognised Gonzalez Urrutia as Venezuelas legitimate president elect. In recent days, Felipe Gonzalez has urged the Pedro Sanchez government to do the same, so far to no apparent avail. On the contrary, just before Christmas the Sanchez government appointed Alvaro Albacete as Spains new ambassador to the Caribbean nation. During his first meeting with Albacete, Venezuelas foreign minister, Yvan Gil, expressed the Maduro governments willingness to expand economic cooperation between the two countries. In the past year, Spanish imports of Venezuelan oil have surged by 136%, largely due to the temporary relaxation of US sanctions on Venezuelas energy sector as well as the ongoing sanctions on Russian oil. Venezuela now accounts for roughly 5% of all Spanish oil imports. What to Expect from Trump? At first blush, it might seem that a new Trump administration is likely to raise the pressure on Venezuela, much as it has threatened to do against Mexico and Panama. Trump himself is apparently facing pressure from oil execs to maintain Bidens policy of granting concessions to Maduro to secure oil imports from Venezuela. However, members of Trumps incoming cabinet, including Marco Rubio, who will soon be secretary of state, have pushed for a harder line toward Venezuela, including reinstating the sanctions that Biden paused. Trump has suggested his new government will stop buying Venezuelan oil altogether, just as his first government did, arguing, in classic Trump fashion, that the US has more oil than any other country on the planet: We are going to use it. We dont have to buy energy from Venezuela when we have 50 times more than them. Its crazy what were doing. The reality, of course, is that Venezuela has more proven oil reserves than anyone, including the US, which places ninth. Another problem for Trump is that he already bet the house on economic sanctions, Juan Guaido and regime change last time round, and it was a humiliating disaster, culminating, in 2023, in Guaidos expulsion from Colombia and his return to Florida on a US government-paid flight. At Miami airport, he was met by no one but a few journalists. After all the billions of dollars spent on project Guaido and all the political capital expended to pressure dozens of countries to recognise him as Venezuelas legitimate leader, Guaido had finally outlived his usefulness. Ambassadors had been appointed in his name, assets, including Venezuelas gold at the Bank of England, had been seized (stolen), and military interventions requested, with absolutely nothing to show for it. And this is how it all ended, with a lone Guaido walking off into the Floridan sunshine: El opositor venezolano Juan Guaido fue expulsado este lunes de Colombia, porque "se encontraba en Bogota de manera irregular", informo el ministerio colombiano de Relaciones Exteriores. Asi llego anoche a Miami, completamente solo pic.twitter.com/AMmYjDlnYH epigmenio ibarra (@epigmenioibarra) April 25, 2023 As for Trumps escalation of sanctions, they may have made the Venezuelan economy scream, but they also backfired in their own way, sparking a massive wave of migration, with hundreds of thousands heading to the US. It was, in the opinion of John Bolton, Trumps then-National Security Advisor, a price worth paying. Bolton is also on the record admitting that one of Washingtons driving goals behind the 2019 attempted coup was to get its hands on Venezuelan oil. Ahead of Venezuela's election, John Bolton admitted to the Washington Post that he knew that the Trump admin's crippling sanctions and coup attempt against Venezuela would destroy its economy and force millions to flee: There was no doubt the sanctions, along with the general pic.twitter.com/woW7cVYlf3 Aaron Mate (@aaronjmate) July 29, 2024 Could things be different this time around? This is a question many are asking. The Maduro government certainly appears to harbour hopes that relations could be improved. To that end, over the past month it has released hundreds of the roughly 1,800 people it took prisoner during the post-election wave of riots, arson and vandalism. Days after Trumps election victory, Michael Shifter, a renowned expert who chaired the Inter-American Dialogue, a Washington, D.C.-based hemispheric think tank, told BBC Mundo that he doesnt rule out the possibility of Trump executing a U-turn on Venezuela, much as he did on North Korea during his first term. Perhaps Trump will try to accommodate the Maduro regime and even seek an agreement on the migration issue, which does matter to him, said Shifter (machine translated): The phrase everyone uses is that Trump loves strongmen. It has some merit, though Maduro has always been an exception to the rule: he was not well liked by Trump in his first term; quite the contrary. And I think the explanation was that [Trump] needed the support of Cuban, Venezuelan, Nicaraguan, and other exiles in Florida who continue to support Trump. But we are in another moment now. Trump cannot run another campaign for president. Florida is already very Republican. And I think there are other factors that have more weight today. In his first term, Trump made an initiative or gesture with Kim Jong-un (leader of North Korea). I do not rule out the possibility that he will try to do something similar with Nicolas Maduro. Its not my prediction, but its worth considering. I imagine Trumps advisers are looking into it. I have heard from some Venezuelan colleagues that in conversations during the campaign this is something that was on the table at least. Since this interview was published, however, the US has finally pulled off its regime change operation in Syria after eleven years of proxy war. And that, together with the rapid decline of the Communist government in Cuba, will have emboldened many of the Neocons in Washington, leading some to wonder whether Maduro will be next. This kind of thinking is exemplified by a recent Anne Applebaum piece in The Atlantic: [T]he end of the Assad regime creates something new, and not only in Syria. There is nothing worse than hopelessness, nothing more soul-destroying than pessimism, grief, and despair. The fall of a Russian- and Iranian-backed regime offers, suddenly, the possibility of change. The future might be different. And that possibility will inspire hope all around the world. In an article for the National Interest, Leo Fleischman, co-founder of the Palm Beach Center for Democracy & Policy Research, argues that the Maduro regime will not collapse because of electoral processes but needs to be pushed out with force: It is a Cuban-type regime designed to perpetuate itself indefinitely. Cutting its source of support (which is no longer oil but drugs), taking advantage of its weaknesses, and organizing an armed opposition look like the only cards left in the hands of those who wish to see Venezuelan democracy restored. More Mercenaries for Hire? Former Blackwater founder and CEO Erik Prince has spent the past few months spearheading a go-fund me site for overthrowing Maduro called Ya Casi Venezuela (Almost There, Venezuela). Venezuela, you voted on July 28 for freedom, he said in a video to mark the websites launch in September. Now, the time has come to vote with dollars . Its not clear how the money is being spent, but given Princes traditional line of business, it will presumably entail hiring mercenaries. Lest we forget, Prince has (or at least had) the ear of President Trump. Again, this has been done before, most recently (allegedly) in October, when the Venezuelan authorities arrested 19 mercenaries with purported ties to the US and Spain. Venezuelas Chavista government has survived numerous assassination plots, a 2002 coup detat against President Hugo Chavez, the attempted colour revolution of 2007, Operation Jericho in February 2015, the guarimbas (street battles) of 2014 and 2017, and the attempted coup of 2019. It is still too early to tell whether a second Trump administration will mean more of the same policies of confrontation in Venezuela, though the tone set so far offers little hope of change. In November, the US House of Representatives passage in November of the bipartisan Banning Operations and Leases with Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime (BOLIVAR) Act suggests that Washington seeks to further strangle Venezuelas economy until the country a government it can approve of. The bill seeks to complement existing sanctions regime by prohibiting the US government from contracting with any person that has business operations with the illegitimate government of Nicolas Maduro, as well as any successor government of Venezuela not recognized as legitimate by the United States. It also serves as a reminder that it theres one thing the US government is still fairly proficient at, it is coming up with catchy (or in this case, catchy and offensive) acronyms for its legislation. We must maintain existing sanctions against the regime and seek to expand sanctions to minimize Maduros resources to abuse the freedoms and prosperity of the Venezuelan people, said Mike Waltz, one of the bills co-sponsors who will soon be serving as Trumps national security advisor. This legislation sends a clear and powerful message to Maduro, as well as other dictators around the world, that there will be no appeasement, there will be no tolerance, there will be no reward for their rogue, illegal actions. In other words, plus ca change Of course, this has nothing to do with restoring democracy in Venezuela; it is about restoring US domination over a country that boasts a dazzling array of mineral resources; has close ties to the US most important strategic rivals, China and Russia; and has, for decades, managed to withstand every single regime-change and assassination attempt by Washington. It remains to be seen what will happen on January 10 if Edmundo Gonzalez actually makes it to Venezuela and tries to claim the presidency, as he says he intends to. Will there be another explosion of violence, as has happened so many times before? Will there be snipers on rooftops shooting at protesters, as occurred in the attempted coup against Chavez in 2002, as well as in Ukraine, Syria, Lebanon? Will foreign mercenaries pour into the country to sow chaos? Will the military stay loyal to the Chavista government, as it has done for the past 25 years? Will tensions continue to escalate between Venezuela and neighbouring Guyana, following the Venezuelan militarys completion of construction of a bridge connecting mainland Venezuela with a military base on a river island in the disputed region of Essequibo? The US Southern Command is, by its own admission, helping the [Guyanese Defence Forces] strengthen its technological capabilities, as well as directly supporting strategic planning, policy development, and coordination of military and security cooperation to strengthen the interoperability of its services in the face of new threats. How will Brazil, Mexico and Colombia, three key nations that in recent years have helped the Maduro government withstand the US-led siege against it, respond if violence explodes once again in Venezuela? Brazils embattled president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, already blocked Venezuelas application for BRICS+ membership in late October, further exacerbating relations between the two countries. By contrast, the governments of Mexico and Colombia have both announced plans to send representatives to Maduros inauguration. Dozens of other countries, including China, Russia, Qatar, Bolivia, Vietnam, Turkey and Indonesia, have in recent months recognised Maduro as the legitimate president of Venezuela. Many others, including the EU and the UK, which is still holding on to Venezuelas gold, are still on the fence, refusing to recognise either Maduro or Gonzalez. But they do not include the US, the worlds regime change specialist. Ready for Trumps return: Alaskas economy is dying under Bidens policies The Biden administration has halted oil and gas drilling on millions of acres in Alaska, including the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A) and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), leading to significant economic strain in a state heavily reliant on resource development. Many Indigenous leaders, including Nagruk Harcharek and Doreen Leavitt, criticize the administration for ignoring their input and failing to recognize the economic benefits of responsible resource development, which funds critical infrastructure like schools and health clinics. While the Biden administration emphasizes environmental conservation and Indigenous stewardship, its policies have been perceived as dismissive of tribal sovereignty and the economic needs of Alaskan communities. Alaskans, including Governor Mike Dunleavy and Charles Lampe, express optimism that the incoming Trump administration will reverse drilling restrictions, reinstate mining support, and prioritize economic growth alongside environmental stewardship. Responsible resource development in Alaska is seen as key to boosting jobs, revenue, and energy security, with the ANWR coastal plain alone estimated to contain billions of barrels of recoverable oil. The Biden administrations aggressive crackdown on oil and gas drilling in Alaska has left many Alaskans, including Native tribal leaders, frustrated and economically stifled. While the administration has touted its commitment to environmental conservation and Indigenous stewardship, its policies have ignored the voices of those who stand to benefit most from responsible resource development. As the Trump administration prepares to take office, Alaskans are hopeful for a return to policies that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. Over the past four years, the Biden administration has shut down drilling activity on tens of millions of acres in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A) and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). It retroactively canceled lease sales and blocked major mining projects, often citing the need to protect the environment and honor Indigenous Knowledge. However, these actions have been met with disappointment by many Native leaders who see resource development as essential to their communities economic survival. Nagruk Harcharek, president of Voice of the Arctic Inupiat, an organization representing North Slope communities, expressed frustration with the Biden administrations lack of meaningful engagement. Despite claims of being the most tribally-friendly administration in history, Harcharek noted that his organizations attempts to communicate the economic benefits of resource development were largely ignored. We dont need to be protected from our own environment, Harcharek said. We can make decisions that are good for the region, the environment, the state and the nation. Doreen Leavitt, secretary for the Inupiat Community of the Arctic Slope (ICAS), echoed these sentiments, criticizing Interior Secretary Deb Haaland for her lack of respect for tribal sovereignty. Leavitt emphasized that resource development has funded critical infrastructure in her community, including running water, schools and health clinics. She expressed hope that incoming Interior Secretary Doug Burgum would prioritize meaningful consultation and respect for tribal self-determination. The war on oil has hit the economy hard Alaskas economy, heavily reliant on oil and gas, has suffered under the Biden administrations restrictions. Gov. Mike Dunleavy has urged President-elect Trump to immediately reverse these policies, arguing that they have destroyed economic opportunity in the state. Dunleavys transition plan calls for lifting restrictions on oil development in the NPR-A and ANWR, reinstating federal support for mining projects, and reversing bans on new roads in the Tongass National Forest. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, in particular, has been a focal point of the drilling debate. While environmentalists argue that the refuge should remain untouched, many Alaskans see its potential as a source of jobs, revenue and energy security. The coastal plain alone is estimated to contain billions of barrels of recoverable oil, which could significantly boost U.S. production. Charles Lampe, president of the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation, expressed optimism about Trumps return to power, recalling the positive relationship his community had with the first Trump administration. We just felt like we were actually listened to during that time, Lampe said. The Biden administrations approach to Alaska has been marked by a disconnect between its rhetoric and its actions. While it has invoked Indigenous Knowledge to justify its policies, it has failed to engage meaningfully with the very communities it claims to protect. This has left many Alaskans feeling ignored and undervalued. As the Trump administration prepares to take office, Alaskans are hopeful for a new era of economic opportunity. Responsible resource development has the potential to revitalize the states economy, fund critical infrastructure and strengthen tribal sovereignty. By striking a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship, the incoming administration can ensure that Alaskas natural resources benefit both its residents and the nation as a whole. The Biden administrations policies may have been well-intentioned, but they have ultimately done more harm than good. Its time for a new approach one that listens to the voices of Alaskans and recognizes the vital role that resource development plays in their lives. With the right leadership, Alaska can once again become a beacon of economic prosperity and energy independence. Sources include: WattsUpWithThat.com AlaskaBeacon via Yahoo.com APNews.com Boeings turbulent year ends in tragedy as South Koreas deadliest plane crash sparks global scrutiny and shares drop Jeju Air Flight 2216 crash in South Korea killed 179, marking the deadliest plane crash in the countrys history. South Korea ordered emergency inspections of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft following the incident. Boeings shares dropped 4% premarket, continuing a 30% decline in 2024 amid ongoing safety and financial crises. The crash adds to Boeings troubled year, including a 737 Max 9 door blowout and unresolved labor and regulatory issues. Critics question if Boeings focus on diversity and inclusion has compromised safety and oversight standards. The world was rocked this weekend by the deadliest plane crash in South Koreas history, a tragedy that has further tarnished the already beleaguered reputation of Boeing, the American aerospace giant. The crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, claimed the lives of 179 people, leaving only two survivors. The incident has prompted South Koreas acting president, Choi Sang-mok, to order an emergency inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating in the country. Meanwhile, Boeings shares have taken yet another hit, continuing a downward spiral that has plagued the company throughout 2024. The crash occurred at Muan International Airport on December 29, when the 15-year-old aircraft skidded off the runway and collided with a concrete barrier, triggering a catastrophic explosion. Initial reports suggest a possible bird strike or landing gear failure as the cause, but the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Adding to the concerns, another Jeju Air 737-800 experienced a landing gear malfunction just hours later, forcing it to return to Seouls Gimpo International Airport. These back-to-back incidents have raised serious questions about the safety and reliability of Boeings aircraft. Boeings mounting crises This latest disaster caps off a year of relentless challenges for Boeing. The company has been grappling with a series of high-profile safety issues, financial struggles, and labor disputes. In January, a door panel blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 mid-flight, reigniting fears about the safety of Boeings flagship aircraft. This incident followed the two fatal crashes of 737 Max jets in 2018 and 2019, which killed 346 people and led to a global grounding of the model. Boeings troubles have only deepened since then. A seven-week machinists strike in the fall disrupted production, and the company has faced ongoing scrutiny from regulators over its safety culture. In July, Boeing agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud for misleading Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulators during the certification process for the 737 Max. However, a federal judge rejected the plea deal, citing concerns about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies influencing the selection of compliance officials. The companys stock price has plummeted by more than 30% this year, reflecting deep investor unease. The South Korean crash has only exacerbated these concerns, with Boeing shares dropping 4% in premarket trading on Monday. Critics argue that Boeings recent struggles are symptomatic of a broader cultural shift within the company, one that prioritizes diversity and inclusion over merit and expertise. Some industry observers have suggested that Boeings focus on these policies may have diverted attention from its core mission: building safe, reliable aircraft. The judges rejection of Boeings plea deal highlighted these concerns, raising questions about whether DEI considerations could compromise the integrity of oversight mechanisms. This debate underscores a growing tension between corporate social responsibility and the need for rigorous safety standards in industries where lives are at stake. A call for accountability In the wake of the South Korean crash, Boeing faces renewed pressure to address its systemic issues. The companys leadership has already undergone significant changes, with CEO David Calhoun stepping down in August. However, these efforts may not be enough to restore public trust. South Koreas decision to inspect all 737-800 aircraft is a prudent step, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the global repercussions of Boeings missteps. As investigations into the crash continue, the aviation industry and the public will be watching closely to see whether Boeing can finally turn the page on its turbulent chapter. For now, the families of the victims are left to mourn, and the world is left to wonder: Can Boeing regain its status as a leader in aviation, or will its legacy be defined by tragedy and failure? Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com FoxBusiness.com APNews.com New photos prove Biden lied about Hunters business ties again Newly released photos show President Biden meeting with Hunters business associates during his vice presidency. The images depict Biden interacting with Hunters Chinese business partner and introducing him to President Xi Jinping. Witnesses and evidence contradict Bidens repeated denials of involvement in Hunters foreign dealings. Bidens recent pardon of Hunter has sparked criticism and accusations of shielding the family from scrutiny. The photos highlight a pattern of dishonesty, raising questions about Bidens integrity and transparency. President Joe Biden has repeatedly denied any involvement in his son Hunters foreign business dealings, but newly released photos from the National Archives tell a different story. These images, obtained through a legal battle led by the conservative group America First Legal, show Biden meeting with Hunters business associates during his time as vice president. The photos add to a growing body of evidence that contradicts Bidens claims about this matter and raises serious questions about his honesty and integrity. The images, taken during a December 2013 trip to China, depict Biden shaking hands with Jonathan Li, CEO of BHR Partners, a Chinese private equity firm co-founded by Hunter Biden. Another photo shows Biden introducing Hunter to Chinese President Xi Jinping. These meetings were previously confirmed through emails and congressional testimony, but the photos provide undeniable visual proof that Biden interacted with his sons business partners despite his repeated denials. Bidens claims of ignorance about Hunters dealings have been debunked time and again. Witnesses have testified that Biden was placed on speakerphone with Hunters associates, attended dinners with them, and even wrote college recommendation letters for Lis children. In one particularly damning WhatsApp message, Hunter threatened a Chinese businessman by claiming he was sitting here with my father, implying that Joe Biden was directly involved in pressuring him for payment. A pattern of dishonesty This is not the first time that Biden has been caught in a lie about his sons business dealings. In 2019, he claimed, Ive never spoken with my son about his overseas dealings. Yet emails from Hunters laptop revealed that Biden dined with Vadym Pozharskyi, a board advisor to Ukrainian gas company Burisma, in 2015. Hunter was on Burismas board at the time, earning $1 million annually despite having no experience in the energy sector. During the 2020 presidential campaign, Biden dismissed his son's laptop scandal as a Russian plant, a claim that has since been thoroughly discredited. Even as recently as March 2024, Biden insisted he did not interact with their partners, referring to Hunters business associates. The newly released photos make it clear that this statement is false. Adding to the controversy, Biden recently issued a sweeping pardon for Hunter covering any crimes he may have committed from 2014 to 2024. This includes potential charges related to his foreign business dealings, which could implicate not just Hunter but also his father. Critics argue that the pardon is an attempt to shield the Biden family from further scrutiny. Only 20% of Americans support the pardon, yet Bidens allies, including Sen. Dick Durbin, have defended it as a labor of love. This blatant disregard for accountability undermines public trust in the justice system and reinforces the perception that the Bidens operate above the law. A legacy of deception The release of these photos is a stark reminder of Bidens longstanding pattern of dishonesty. From his denials about Hunters business dealings to his dismissal of the laptop scandal, Biden has consistently misled the American people. The medias reluctance to hold him accountable has only fueled public distrust in legacy outlets. As more evidence emerges, it becomes increasingly clear that Bidens claims of innocence are untenable. The American people deserve transparency and honesty from their leaders, not a web of lies and cover-ups. Its time for Biden to come clean and for his defenders to stop enabling his deceit. Sources for this article include: JonathanTurley.org NYPost.com DailyMail.co.uk WashingtonExaminer.com Putin claims divine approval and foresees Russian VICTORY in Ukraine by 2025 Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed certainty about Russia's victory over Ukraine by 2025, citing divine support for the Russian people and nation. Putin firmly rejected a proposal that would freeze the conflict along current front lines in exchange for delaying Ukraine's NATO membership, emphasizing Russia's previous rejection of similar deals. Putin declared that Russia's primary goal for 2025 is achieving military success, while also addressing economic, social and security concerns. Despite the ongoing conflict, Putin indicated willingness to consider peace talks hosted by Slovakia, following a proposal by Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. The situation is becoming more complex with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's promise to broker an immediate ceasefire upon inauguration, adding uncertainty to ongoing diplomatic efforts. In a bold statement made to reporters on Thursday, Dec. 26, after a Supreme Eurasian Economic Council (SEEC) meeting in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted his confidence in Russia's victory over Ukraine by 2025, citing divine support as a key factor. This comes as the United States and Slovakia propose potential pathways to de-escalate the conflict, though Putin remains firm in his stance. Speaking at length on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the Russian leader expressed his unwavering belief that "God is with us," referring to the Russian people and the nation as a whole. When questioned about the possibility of a frozen conflict in Ukraine along current front lines in exchange for delaying Ukraine's NATO membership, Putin firmly dismissed the proposal, stating that a similar offer was previously deemed unacceptable by Moscow. "At that time, we told the U.S. such a deal was unacceptable to Moscow," he remarked. Moscow's game-changing mission for 2025: Dominating the battlefield Despite the international community's efforts to mediate the conflict, Putin emphasized that Russia's top priority for 2025 is unequivocally focused on achieving military success on the battlefield. The Russian president spoke optimistically about the future, saying, "We are striving to end the conflict. We believe that we will be successful on the front line and accomplish our objectives in the field of the economy, as well as resolve social issues, the issues of military security, and security in the broadest sense. We will continue moving in accordance with our plans." In an unexpected revelation, Putin also indicated openness to Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico's proposal to host peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv. Fico, who visited Putin in the Kremlin on Dec. 22, reportedly suggested that Bratislava, given its neutral position, could act as a platform for such discussions. Putin, seemingly impressed by the proposal, stated, "Slovakia takes such a neutral position," signaling his willingness to engage in talks. However, these diplomatic overtures come in the wake of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's promise to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine immediately upon his inauguration. (Related: Putin is ready to negotiate a CEASEFIRE with Trump.) While detailed plans remain undisclosed, the suggestion of a ceasefire within hours of Trump's presidency has added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict. The international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds, with many nations expressing concern over the potential for prolonged conflict and its wide-ranging implications for global security and stability. As the new year approaches, the conflict in Ukraine continues to be a focal point of global concern, with key leaders like Putin asserting their positions with unwavering determination. The coming months will likely see increased efforts to broker peace, though the path to resolution remains uncertain, with Russia's military objectives and strategic interests continuing to shape the dynamics of the conflict. Follow UkraineWitness.com for more news about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War. Watch this clip from TruNews about Russian President Vladimir Putin daring Western governments to try to shoot down one of Russia's new hypersonic missiles. This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Putin signals readiness for peace talks with Trump but stresses unchanged demands for ending Ukraine conflict. Putin vows to massively expand stockpile of Oreshnik hypersonic missiles as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine. Putin warns of escalation into a global war as he confirms Ukraines launch of long-range missiles into Russian territory. Sources include: RT.com News18.com IndiaTVNews.com Brighteon.com Sheriffs gear up to join Trumps MASS DEPORTATION crusade Elected sheriffs are poised to play a central role in President-elect Donald Trump's mass deportation plan, with many eager to collaborate with federal authorities to enforce immigration laws. The plan, led by incoming border czar Tom Homan, emphasizes federal, state, and local partnerships, particularly through the revitalized 287(g) program, which allows local jails to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in identifying and detaining illegal immigrants. Groups like the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA) are championing the initiative, arguing that sheriffs' local knowledge will make deportations safer and more efficient. While some sheriffs in blue states are willing to cooperate with ICE, others like San Diego Sheriff Kelly Martinez are refusing to comply, highlighting deep ideological divides and potential conflicts between federal and local governments. The plan faces significant opposition in liberal cities like Chicago, setting the stage for legal and political battles over immigration enforcement, with potential long-term impacts on trust in law enforcement and the human costs of mass deportations. Elected sheriffs are stepping up to the plate, ready to play a pivotal role in President-elect Donald Trump's mass deportation plan. The incoming border czar, Tom Homan, has been dropping hints about a new era of federal, state and local cooperation aimed at deporting illegal immigrants. And sheriffs across the country are warming up to the idea, eagerly volunteering to be the workforce behind Trump's grand deportation scheme. The Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA), a conservative group known for its staunch opposition to what it deems "unconstitutional" government intrusions, is leading the charge. Sam Bushman, CEO of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA), sees this as a historic opportunity for sheriffs to join the federal government in a unified front against illegal immigration. "Our nation wants a safe country and we've had enough crime," Homan declared during a stop in Texas. His words are ringing in the ears of sheriffs everywhere, fueling their resolve to crack down on illegal immigrants, especially those with criminal records or pending charges. The ultimate goal is to rid the country of what Homan believes are the primary sources of crime and violence. Richard Mack, a former Arizona sheriff and CSPOA founder puts it bluntly: "Who in this country knows their counties better than the sheriff? He pointed out that by leveraging the local knowledge of sheriffs, the deportation process can become safer and more efficient. Trump's plan calls for the removal of nearly 11 million people who entered the country illegally since 2021. It relies heavily on the 287(g) program, a framework that allows local jails to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in identifying and detaining illegal immigrants. This program, which was expanded under Trump's first term and later paused by the administration of outgoing President Joe Biden, is now set to be revitalized. ICE, with its limited manpower, will likely count on sheriffs to help fill the gap. The vision is to create a seamless pipeline of deportations, with ICE officers picking up detainees right from within jail cells rather than conducting risky and costly street operations. In blue states like Maryland and Michigan, some sheriffs are willing to cooperate with ICE, albeit with caveats. Sheriff Dar Lief of Michigan's Barry County is a case in point. Despite his Democratic leanings, he supports removing violent criminals from the streets. Highlighting the complex moral and legal implications involved, Lief asked: "Nonetheless, our governor here asked residents to take in illegal immigrants. Who are you opening up your house to?" Far-left sheriffs refuse to cooperate with the incoming administration However, not everyone shares this vision. Democratic San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez has flatly refused to comply with a new county policy banning her department from working with ICE on immigration enforcement. Her defiance showcases the deep divides this plan will widen between the federal and local governments and within communities themselves. This move could be the last straw in a world where trust in law enforcement is already fragile. On the other side of the spectrum, cities like Chicago, led by Mayor Brandon Johnson, are gearing up for a showdown with Trump's administration. Homan's declaration that he will "prosecute" any official who hinders deportation efforts sets the stage for high-stakes showdowns in liberal stronghold cities. (Related: Incoming "border czar" Tom Homan: Trump's mass deportation operation to start in Chicago.) This drama is far from over. In the years to come, we will see whether the will to deport illegal immigrants outweighs the human costs and whether the trust in law enforcement can survive such an intrusive and sweeping policy. Head over to InvasionUSA.news to read related stories. Watch this clip from the "X22 Report" featuring Sheriff Richard Mack of the CSPOA explaining how people can help with the mass deportation plans. This video is from the Sanivan channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Illegal immigrants self-deporting ahead of Trump's return to the White House. Trump's plan to use military for mass deportation of migrants constitutional, claims RealClearWire. California AG defies Trump on immigration, ignoring voter sentiment. Mexico prepares: Trump's deportation plans progressing. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com MSN.com Brighteon.com Trumps 2024 triumph could usher in new era of Republican dominance, if results are attained on several crucial fronts The 2024 presidential election drastically altered the political landscape, with the prospect of a long-term realignment that favors revolutionary reforms from the Republican Party. The triumph of Donald Trump , combined with Republicans regaining the Senate majority and maintaining control of the House, has sent shock-waves through the political establishment. However, if real world results are not readily attained and Trump's promises are not kept over the next four years, the Republican Party could unravel. If Trump's team fails, there may be no believable, populous leader to advance an American First Agenda after 2028. 2024 exit polls showed a political preference shift, not seen in a century The most striking sign of a political realignment came in the 2024 exit polls, which revealed that more voters identified as Republicans than Democratsmarking the first time this has happened in a presidential election since 1928. This unprecedented change signals a potential generational shift, one that could see the GOP in the political driver's seat for decades to come. However, the triumph is not without its perils. Trump and his administration have a daunting task ahead, with promises to deliver a thriving economy, lower grocery and gas prices, all while reigning in corporate and government corruption. To be successful into the future, Trump's reform party will need to contain illegal immigration, and forge peaceful relationships with global powers like Russia and China, while finding resolve with Israel and other sovereign nations in the Middle East. Additionally, Trump and his reform party must withstand the Democratic Party's growing push to dismantle constitutional protections, particularly the First Amendment, which has been under serious attack by the Left. The Democratic Party, having seen a significant decline in support, finds itself in a precarious position of its own. With only 31% of Americans identifying as Democrats in this election, down from 37% in 2000, the party's traditional stronghold is in jeopardy. This sharp decline, coupled with an extreme leftward shift, has created a political landscape where the old playbook no longer suffices. The vast majority of Americans don't want transgenderism pushed on their children; they don't want unlawful medical mandates jabbing them at every turn. They want safe communities, and a border that stops gangs, terrorists, drug and sex trafficking. Kamala Harris's failed campaign, which saw her relying on traditional Democratic base strategies, highlights this momentous shift. Although she rallied her base with 95% of Democrats voting for her, the Republican tilt of the electorate meant that those efforts were no longer enough to secure an electoral victory. Harris's reliance on figures like former Rep. Liz Cheney to appeal to moderate Republicans highlighted the party's struggle to adapt to the changing political climate. Americans ultimately rejected the weaponization of the justice system against Trump and the "J6ers." Trump and the Republican majority must deliver on several crucial fronts The road ahead for Trump and the Republicans is challenging but not impossible. If successful, their administration could usher in an era of prolonged Republican dominance, reminiscent of the early 1980s when Ronald Reagan brought the two parties to parity. However, if the economy falters, illegal immigration spirals out of control, or foreign policy missteps occur, the GOP could see a rapid exodus of support. There are also conflicts of interest within the Republican reform party. Many liberal democrats are set to occupy top cabinet positions, and they desire greater regulations on corporations, from food companies, to energy, agriculture and pharmaceutical. With Trump at the helm, regulations are more likely to be cut, not enacted, so there will be a conflict within the new Republican Party. As Congress reconvenes, the stakes could not be higher. The Republican-controlled Congress will need to walk the fine line between fulfilling their campaign promises and avoiding compromises and engaging in government overreach and corporate collusion that could alienate crucial voters. With the economy, immigration, and foreign policy at the forefront, the coming years will be crucial in determining whether this realignment is a permanent shift or a fleeting moment of Republican ascendancy. In the coming months, the American public will be watching closely, eager to see whether the promises of the new political era will be delivered upon. As the dust settles on this historic election, the nation waits to see if the new political landscape will herald a new, stable era of Republican dominance or if this moment could be the beginning of a cycle of political upheaval. Sources include: NYPost.com NYPost.com NaturalNews.com As 2024 draws to a close, Nature World News reflects on the captivating stories that defined the year in science, nature, and discovery. From the dazzling beauty of the northern lights and groundbreaking fossil finds to warnings about supervolcanoes and the challenges of coexistence between humans and wildlife, these stories showcase the wonder and complexity of our world. Join us as we revisit the year's most popular articles, offering fresh insights into the dynamic relationship between humanity and the natural world. The northern lights may grace parts of the U.S. tonight, November 6, offering a rare opportunity to see this dazzling natural phenomenon caused by solar activity. A recent coronal mass ejection (CME) may create faint auroras visible in northern states like Montana, Wisconsin, and Maine, with the best chances between 710 p.m. EST. Viewers are advised to find dark, clear skies and check NOAA updates for the latest conditions. Discovery of the world's oldest gorgonopsian fossil in Mallorca reveals a saber-toothed predator from 270280 million years ago. This rare find challenges assumptions about gorgonopsian habitats, linking their origins to tropical regions near the equator. The fossils offer insights into the evolutionary transition from reptiles to mammals. Deception Island, a volcanic caldera in the Southern Ocean near Antarctica, is a unique natural harbor and wildlife sanctuary. Its hidden lagoon, Port Foster, is a crucial stop for explorers and researchers, offering a glimpse into the island's geological and historical significance. Despite its remote location, it attracts tourists eager to explore its volcanic springs, penguin colonies, and rich history. Federal authorities are investigating the discovery of a butchered dolphin on a New Jersey beach, where its organs were mostly removed with clean cuts. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center responded to the scene in Allenhurst on Oct. 30, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding the dolphin's death. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is now involved in the investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward. A new study warns that bio-based fibers like viscose and lyocell, often marketed as eco-friendly, may harm earthworms, vital to soil health. The research found high mortality rates and adverse effects on earthworm reproduction and growth when exposed to these fibers. It calls for further investigation before these materials become widely used, highlighting potential ecological risks of alternative fibers. Africa's continent is slowly splitting in two, with the East African Rift paving the way for a new ocean. This geological event, centered in Ethiopia's Afar region, is driven by tectonic plate movements and mirrors the process that formed the Atlantic Ocean. Scientists are monitoring this rifting phenomenon, which will reshape Africa's landscape over millions of years. A colossal coral, discovered by National Geographic's Pristine Seas team off the Solomon Islands, is now the largest known coral in the world. The massive Pavona clavus, spanning over 34 meters in width, is a thriving ecosystem, home to numerous marine species. This remarkable discovery highlights both the fragility and resilience of coral ecosystems, underscoring the urgent need to protect them from the growing threats of climate change and pollution. The Phlegraean Fields supervolcano near Naples, Italy, shows increased activity with heightened carbon dioxide emissions, raising global concerns. Scientists attribute most emissions to underground magma, highlighting the region's volcanic complexity and potential climate impact. Ongoing research aims to improve monitoring and predicting volcanic events to ensure public safety. Mountain lions in Los Angeles are shifting to nighttime activity to avoid human encounters, new research reveals. A study found these big cats are more active at night in areas with heavy human traffic, adapting to increased recreational activities. While this behavior supports coexistence, it raises concerns about potential impacts on their natural routines and long-term survival. Scientists have confirmed their early warnings for Mauna Loa's 2022 eruption by analyzing lava crystals, revealing magma movement 70 days prior. The study aligns with predictions based on earthquake activity and ground swelling near the volcano. These findings offer insights into improving eruption forecasts, crucial for protecting communities near active volcanoes. Looking Ahead to 2025 Stay tuned to Nature World News as we continue to bring you the latest updates about our planet. Thank you to our readers for making 2024 an incredible journey. Here's to more exploration, discovery, and wonder in 2025! On the right to appoint a Whip, the SC said: To hold that it is the legislature party which appoints the Whip would be to sever the figurative umbilical cord which connects a member of the House to the political party. It would mean that legislators could rely on the political party for the purpose of setting them up for election, that their campaign would be based on the strengths (and weaknesses) of the political party and its promises and policies, that they could appeal to the voters on the basis of their affiliation with the party, but that they can later disconnect themselves entirely from that very party and be able to function as a group of MLAs which no longer owes even a hint of allegiance to the political party. Both the Whip and the Leader of the party in the House can only be appointed by the political party, the SC ruled. New Delhi, Dec 30 : In a bid to swiftly address citizen concerns, the centralised public grievance redress and monitoring system (CPGRAMS) has successfully resolved over 70 lakh grievances in the last three years (2022-2024), the government said on Monday. From 2022 to 2024, the system enabled the resolution of 70,03,533 grievances and mapped 1,03,183 Grievance Redressal Officers (GROs) as of October 31. CPGRAMS, developed and monitored by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), is an online platform available 24/7 that connects all ministries and departments across the country. The public grievance system now connects 92 central ministries, departments and organisations with 36 states/UTs, offering a seamless platform supported by over 73,000 active subordinate users. With 96,295 organisations registered, CPGRAMS has significantly improved citizen engagement and service delivery. Citizens can file complaints through the web portal, the mobile app on the Google Play Store, or the UMANG app. Each complaint receives a unique registration ID, allowing users to track its progress. Additionally, the My Grievance app serves as an independent platform for filing and tracking complaints, according to the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. The government is prioritising a citizen-centric approach for a developed Bharat, ensuring active participation from citizens in the development process. At the third Biennial Pan-Commonwealth Heads of Public Service Meeting in April this year, the Commonwealth Secretariat highlighted it as a future-ready governance tool. The system has proven effective in addressing citizens' grievances with swift resolutions and improved public safety. Now, DARPG is developing the NextGen CPGRAMS platform to improve grievance redressal. Building on CPGRAMS 7.0, it will offer features like grievance filing via WhatsApp/Chatbot, voice-to-text lodging, instant alerts, and auto-escalation. Grievance Redressal Officers will benefit from machine learning-based auto-replies and auto-populated reports. Monitoring bodies can track grievances by grouping, sector and ministry. The NextGen CPGRAMS system is set to launch on July 1, 2025, further enhancing the grievance resolution process. New Delhi, Dec 30 : With artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping healthcare at an unprecedented pace, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi is investing more than Rs 300 crore in developing digital infrastructure, said Director Dr. M. Srinivas. He said this at a meeting held at the national capital deliberating the transformative potential of AI in revolutionising health awareness and patient education empowerment. Leaders in healthcare, technology, and policy shared insights into how AI is poised to bridge critical gaps in health communication, making information more accessible, reliable, and patient-centric. AI is revolutionising everything from patient care to health communication, said Dr. M. Srinivas, Director of AIIMS. We are investing over Rs 300 crore in digital infrastructure to ensure that every stakeholder -- patients, doctors, and researchers -- benefits from this innovation. By integrating AI, we can improve efficiency, reduce delays, and enable world-class research, he added. The experts at AIIMS also stressed the need to bridge the gap of misinformation by delivering accurate, easily understandable, and personalised healthcare information via AI to people across diverse demographics. Srinivas also emphasised that leveraging AI to simplify and disseminate health information will empower patients and improve their engagement with healthcare systems, ultimately leading to better health outcomes. A good health system isnt reliant on individuals. AI can play a vital role in making healthcare more accurate, compassionate, and equitable, Dr. Kavita Narayan, Senior Technical Advisor, HRH for Health Systems at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To truly make a difference, we must integrate technology thoughtfully and ensure collaboration between policymakers, technologists, and healthcare providers, she added. The experts also caution against overdependence on technology at the expense of human connection. K.P. Kochhar, Professor and Head of the Physiology Department at AIIMS, stressed the importance of balancing innovation with empathy in healthcare. While AI can enhance precision and efficiency, we must preserve the human touch in healthcare. Compassion and technology must work together to create systems that prioritise the well-being of patients, Kochhar said. Hanoi, Dec 30 : Vietnam's birth rate hit a record low in 2024 with the total fertility rate dropping to just 1.91 children per woman, marking the third consecutive year below replacement level. The decline in birth rates has been steady over the past few years: From 2.11 children per woman in 2021 to 2.01 in 2022, and further down to 1.96 in 2023, Xinhua news agency reported quoting the Vietnam News Agency that cited the Vietnam Population Authority under the Ministry of Health on Monday. According to Pham Vu Hoang, deputy director of the authority, Vietnam's population could begin to shrink after 2054 if the low fertility rate persists. Projections indicate a potential annual population decline of 0.04 per cent between 2054 and 2059 and 0.18 per cent between 2064 and 2069, equating to an average loss of 200,000 people per year. By contrast, maintaining the replacement-level birthrate allows a slight annual growth of 0.17 per cent, adding approximately 200,000 people per year, he said. The Ministry of Health is drafting the Population Law which is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly in 2025. The draft law proposes measures to maintain the 2.1 replacement fertility level including abolishing penalties for having a third child, encouraging women to get married before the age of 30 and have two children before the age of 35. The Southeast Asian country began the population golden period in 2007 after formally reaching the replacement fertility in 2006. Priorities include enhancing public awareness about family planning and gender equality, encouraging families to have two children and invest in raising healthy, educated, and well-rounded children, and integrating population targets into provincial resolutions and plans. Deputy Minister Huong also called for reinforcing the organisational framework of population departments across provinces and cities to improve efficiency in addressing demographic challenges. Promoting the idea of two-child families, nurturing children well, and building happy, progressive families is crucial, she stated, urging society to shift its mindset from focussing solely on family planning to a broader perspective of population and development. Vietnam became the third most populous country in Southeast Asia and the 15th-most populous country in the world when its population surpassed 100 million in 2023. New Delhi, Dec 30 : Indian IT/tech ecosystem is projected to contribute 10 per cent to Indias GDP by 2025, with at least 20 per cent rise in emerging tech roles next year, a report showed on Monday. The generative (GenAI) industry alone is projected to 1 million new job opportunities by 2028, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP, according to the report by FirstMeridian Business Services. Salaries for GenAI positions like Generative AI engineer, Algorithm engineer and AI security specialist are forecast to rise from the previous year, indicating a 25-30 per cent upward trend in compensation for mid-level category. Industries like global capability centres (GCCs) created over 600,000 jobs between 2018-19 and 2023-24. By 2030, they are projected to employ 2.5 to 2.8 million professionals, said the report. Additionally, other non-tech sectors like BFSI and telecom are likely to increase their intake of IT/tech professionals in the coming year. Companies must prioritise reskilling and upskilling to foster innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the AI-driven economy. The top five skills expected to define AI roles in 2025 will be AI, ML, cloud computing, data science and cyber security, said Sunil Nehra, CEO-IT Staffing, FirstMeridian Business Services. In 2024, the Indian IT/tech ecosystem witnessed a 17 per cent surge in new employment opportunities, driven by rapid digital transformation and the concurrent rising demand for emerging tech niche job profiles. As businesses expand and innovate, the surge in hiring will support new projects, enhance digital infrastructure, and keep pace with technological advancements. Majority of large enterprises and mid-sized companies are expected to marginally increase their upskilling budgets by an average of 15-20 per cent in 2025. Additionally, individuals will continue taking initiative for their own upskilling efforts to prepare for promising new-age tech roles, the report mentioned. An emerging sector set to thrive in 2025 is the Indian IT gig economy, projected to grow by 3X and employ 24 million people by 2030, in which a majority will be created in 2025 and 2026 in high-demand skill areas such as AI engineers, data analysts and cybersecurity professionals. A new wave of growth is emerging in the Indian IT sector, extending beyond tier 1 cities to include tier 2 and 3 towns. This shift is expected to fuel more than 35 per cent increase in hiring across these regions by 2025 with Tier 2 cities like Jaipur, Indore and Coimbatore leading the way, the report noted. New Delhi, Dec 31 : As northwesterly winds increased the cold in the Delhi-NCR region, the temperatures remained low and the air quality deteriorated to the 'poor' category on the final day of the year Foggy conditions also prevailed in the region. The national capital recorded a minimum temperature of 10.2 degrees on Tuesday and a maximum temperature of 15 degrees was forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). On Monday, the minimum temperature was 10.3 degrees and the maximum temperature was 15 degrees. Due to the wind blowing and other weather conditions of the past three to four days, there has been a significant improvement in the air quality in the national capital. The AQI has improved from the very poor category to the poor category and now to 'moderate' level. According to the IMD, a severe cold wave and dense fog are set to persist until January 1 in Delhi and neighbouring regions. The cold spell is expected to impact visibility and significantly lower daytime temperatures across Northwest India. The IMD has issued a warning for cold wave conditions in Haryana and Chandigarh starting December 31. These conditions are also forecasted for parts of West Uttar Pradesh and northern Madhya Pradesh by January 1. Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh are also expected to experience dense to very dense fog. T The mercury dipped but remained above normal in Delhi even as cold northwesterly winds improved the air quality to the 'moderate' category level. Due to the record-breaking rainfall between December 27 and 28., the air quality in Delhi improved overnight as the citys Air Quality Index (AQI) dipped to the moderate category on Monday, The downpour also brought a significant chill and strengthened winds across the city. According to the IMD forecast, the minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be 10.05 degrees and 20.84 degrees, respectively. The relative humidity is currently at 25 per cent with a wind speed of 25 km/h. The Meteorological Department has forecast dense fog during the morning and evening hours on January 1, New Year's Day. A cold wave is expected to persist during the day, reducing visibility and daytime temperatures. These conditions indicate that the national capital and other cities in the NCR will experience a severe cold spell, with an increase in the chill factor. New Delhi, Dec 31 : India on Tuesday announced that it is providing "all possible help" to Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya, who has been sentenced to death in Yemen for the murder of a Yemeni national. In a statement, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Ms Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter." The statement follows the recent approval of Nimisha Priya's death sentence by Yemen's President Rashad al-Alimi. Reports indicate that the execution could take place within a month, leaving the family in shock and racing against time to save her. Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari, 57, has been making relentless efforts to secure a waiver of the death penalty. Earlier this year, she travelled to Sanaa, Yemen's capital, to negotiate the payment of diya (blood money) to the victim's family with the assistance of the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, an organisation of NRI social workers based in Yemen. Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kollengode in Kerala's Palakkad district, had moved to Yemen in 2008 to support her daily-wage labourer parents. She worked in several hospitals and eventually decided to open her own clinic. In 2017, a dispute arose between her and her Yemeni business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi, after she reportedly opposed his alleged attempts to misappropriate funds. According to her family, Nimisha allegedly injected Mahdi with sedatives to retrieve her confiscated passport. Tragically, an overdose led to his death. She was arrested while attempting to flee the country and was convicted of murder in 2018. In 2020, a trial court in Sanaa sentenced her to death, and Yemen's Supreme Judicial Council upheld the verdict in November 2023, though it left open the option of blood money. The case has drawn widespread attention and raised concerns over the fate of Indian nationals abroad as the family and supporters continue their efforts to save Nimisha Priya from the death penalty. Dhaka, December 31 : Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday paid a rich tribute to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who died last week. Professor Yunus visited the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and placed a floral wreath at the portrait of late PM Manmohan Singh. He also wrote a condolence message in the condolence book opened at the High Commission. India is observing a seven-day mourning for the late Prime Minister of the country. Indian High Commissioner Pranay Kumar Verma received the Chief Adviser at the High Commission at Baridhara at 11:30 am. Professor Yunus spoke briefly with the High Commissioner and shared his memories with his long-time friend Manmohan Singh. "How simple he was! how wise he was!" he said, recalling his friendship with the late Indian Premier. He also said that Singh played a big role in turning India into a global economic giant. Earlier on Friday, in his messages, the Chief Adviser described Dr Singh as a person of great humility, a visionary leader, and a statesman who was known for his unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare of the people of India. The Chief Adviser said that the late Prime Minister would be remembered for his contributions to India's economic transformation. He stated that Dr Singh's leadership not only shaped the future of India but also contributed to strengthening the bond of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between Bangladesh and India. Referring to Dr Manmohan Singh's role in promoting regional cooperation, the Chief Adviser also highlighted the late leader's vision and firm commitment to regional peace, prosperity, and role in advancing South Asian cooperation. He urged the South Asian countries to work together to build on the rich legacy of his ideas and work as a tribute to Dr Manmohan Singh. The Chief Adviser recalled his many cherished memories with Dr Singh. In his condolence messages, Muhammad Yunus mentioned the warm congratulatory message the late Indian Prime Minister sent on the occasion of Dr Yunus' winning the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2006. He also recalled his meetings with Dr Singh in January 2007 in New Delhi and later in December 2009 as Yunus was invited to deliver the 2nd Prof. Hiren Mukerjee Annual Parliamentary Lecture, which was attended by members of both houses, including the Speaker of the Rajya Sabha. The Chief Adviser extended, on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh, his heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Government, and the people of India. Patna, Dec 31 : The meteorological department of Patna has issued an alert predicting a cold wave across Bihar for the next seven days, starting with the new year. The state has already experienced a significant drop in temperature, with Kishanganj recording the lowest minimum temperature at 11.5Celsius. Other notable recordings include Darbhanga at 11.6C, Aurangabad at 13.3C, Muzaffarpur at 13.7C, and Sasaram at 14.7C on Tuesday. Met officials confirmed that the weather will remain dry with no signs of rain until at least January 7. However, temperatures are expected to decline further, intensifying the cold wave conditions. The Meteorological Centre and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have also forecast dense fog and westerly winds across the state, contributing to a heightened cold wave alert. People have been advised to prepare for adverse conditions as the cold intensifies. The meteorological department has issued a yellow alert for dense fog across several districts in Bihar, including Buxar, Bhojpur, Kaimur, Arwal, Rohtas, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Purnea, Araria, West Champaran, East Champaran, Madhepura, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Aurangabad. Motorists have been advised to drive with caution, prioritizing safety by avoiding travel during low-visibility conditions, especially at night. The motorists should exercise extreme caution while driving; ensure visibility is high before travel; and avoid night time journeys if possible. The general public has been advised to stay indoors during peak cold hours, use appropriate heating, and dress warmly. Visibility issues and biting cold may persist. Bihar's residents are urged to prepare for harsher winter conditions in the coming days. Cold conditions in Bihar may worsen due to ongoing snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. Westerly winds will likely exacerbate the chill. An outbreak of cold wave conditions has also been reported in neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. A thick layer of fog has been observed in several regions, including southwestern Bihar, western Jharkhand, northern Chhattisgarh, southern Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, north Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, western and south Uttar Pradesh, south Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. New Delhi, Dec 31 : The year 2024 has been a year of cutting-edge achievements for India, marked by a series of "firsts" that spotlight the nation's growing stature on the global stage. Below achievements underscore India's commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and global leadership, thus paving the way for a brighter future. Governance and economic milestones 1. First-ever snow leopard survey: Conducted in January, the survey revealed an estimated 718 snow leopards in the wild, a critical step in protecting this endangered species. 2. Electrification of remote villages: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, even the most remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir have experienced significant development. In January, two villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Keran sector of the union territory were electrified for the first time in 75 years of independence. Furthermore, Chhutwahi, a village in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, which had previously struggled with Maoist influence, gained access to electricity and connectivity in November. 3. Forex Reserves cross the $700 billion mark: In September, India's foreign exchange reserves exceeded $700 billion, making it the fourth-largest globally. 4. Record digital transactions: In October, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) processed 16.58 billion transactions, highlighting India's digital transformation. 5. Constitution Day in J&K: Jammu and Kashmir celebrated 'Samvidhan Diwas' for the first time on November 26. Infrastructure milestones 1. First steel slag road: A road section on NH-66, using processed steel slag, was inaugurated in January, showcasing sustainable infrastructure development. The road section was constructed by converting approximately 80,000 tons of CONARC Steel Slag into processed steel slag aggregated. 2. Electric train in J&K: PM Modi in February flagged off the union territory's first electric train, enhancing connectivity and sustainability. It also showcases a long-overdue integration of the territory with the nation's broader developmental goals. 3. Floating solar plant by Indian Railways: A 10 MWp solar plant was installed on Igatpuri Lake in the Western Ghats of the nation in June, leveraging renewable energy. It is a first-of-its-kind initiative which aims at achieving the railway's resolution of 'Green Earth'. 4. Driverless metro under 'Make in India': The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) received its first metro train set with driverless technology in September 2024. This train is equipped with advanced automation and safety features. 5. Vande Metro (Namo Bharat Rapid Rail) launch: Launched in Ahmedabad in September 2024, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is a revolutionary urban transit system designed for short-distance travel, aimed at modernising India's infrastructure. 6. Indigenous naval vessel 'Samarthak': The Indian Navy launched its first multi-purpose vessel (MPV) under the Centre's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' initiatives. 7. Vertical lift railway sea bridge: A new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, India's first ever vertical rift railway bridge inaugurated in November, replaced the 105-year-old structure, offering modern engineering excellence. 8. Bio-Gas plant in Gwalior: A groundbreaking cattle dung-based Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior was inaugurated by PM Modi in November, marking a significant development under the 'Waste to Wealth' initiative. Space and defence innovations 1. First X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat): Launched in January, XPoSat positioned India as the second country, after the US, to study black holes with a dedicated observatory. 2. Private sector aircraft plant: October saw the inauguration of the TATA Aircraft Complex, producing C-295 aircraft, by PM Modi. This complex will further enhance India's defence manufacturing. 3. Military space exercise: The first-ever military space exercise, 'Antariksha Abhyas-2024,' was conducted by the Defence Space Agency in September. This was focused on strengthening strategic readiness in space warfare. 4. Hypersonic missile test: In November, DRDO successfully tested India's first long-range hypersonic missile, which flies over five times the speed of sound and can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads to a distance exceeding. Global events 1. National Creators Award: India launched the world's first award for digital content creators. These awards were presented by PM Modi at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, recognising the contributions of digital creators across various platforms. 2. UN Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure: In April, India hosted the UN's First International Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure to harness the technology to push Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference specifically featured the nation's Citizen Stack initiative, which was inspired by the transformative India Stack. 3. UNESCO World Heritage Session: India hosted the 46th session in July, with Assam's Moidams -- Mound-Burial System of Ahom Dynasty -- becoming the 42nd World Heritage Site. In the past decade, a total of 13 Heritage Sites have been listed in India. 4. Ayurveda Conference: The All India Institute of Ayurveda hosted its first international conference, AROHA-2024, in October. 5. ICA Cooperative Conference: India hosted the International Cooperative Alliance's global event, Global Cooperative Conference and General Assembly, in November for the first in the 130-year history of ICA. 6. Asian Buddhist Summit: In November, India hosted the First Asian Buddhist Summit, which saw participation from 32 countries, with over 160 international participants attending. In Healthcare sector, India marked a new start with indigenous Antibiotic Development. "Nafithromycin," the first indigenous antibiotic was launched to counter resistant infections, thereby marking a milestone in healthcare self-reliance. All these milestones align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047,' thereby laying the foundation for a prosperous, inclusive and progressive nation. Canberra, Dec 31 : Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has used his New Year's message to declare that the country can become stronger in 2025. In the short video message released on Tuesday, Albanese described Australia as the greatest country in the world. "And in the year ahead, with new determination and renewed optimism, we can build an even stronger Australia together," he said. He thanked Australians who have worked through the holiday period, including defence force personnel, emergency service and health workers and people in hospitality and retail, for their sacrifice and said he hoped everyone has had time to relax and celebrate. Albanese will face a general election in 2025 where his Labor Party aims to win a second term in power. The election must be held by May, Xinhua news agency reported. In his own New Year's message, Peter Dutton, leader of the opposition Coalition, said that 2025 was an opportunity for Australia to get ' back on track.' As the world prepares to celebrate New Years Day on January 1, 2025, millions of people across the globe are set to mark the occasion with celebrations that reflect both personal and cultural traditions. The day represents more than just the start of a new calendar yearit is a moment of reflection, renewal, and optimism for the future. The global celebration of New Years Day is marked by a variety of unique customs and traditions. While the specific practices differ from culture to culture, the common theme of renewal and new beginnings is universal. Many people use the occasion to make New Years resolutions, pledging to improve themselves or their lives in some way over the coming year. These resolutions often focus on personal growth, whether through health, career, or relationships. The celebration also involves family gatherings, meals, and festivities. Traditional New Years foods vary by culture, but common dishes include black-eyed peas, cabbage, and champagne, each symbolising good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. These culinary traditions are not just about food; they carry a deeper meaning, as many believe that certain foods bring luck, wealth, and happiness. Dubai, Dec 31 : West Indies opener Hayley Matthews capped off 2024 in style, smashing her seventh ODI century to re-enter the top 10 of the ICC womens batting rankings. Matthews brilliant 106 off 109 balls in the second ODI against India not only guided her team to a competitive total but also elevated her to a joint-seventh position in the rankings with a rating of 652. She now shares the spot with Australias star left-hander Beth Mooney. While Matthews excelled, Australias Alyssa Healy, who scored a half-century earlier in the series, slipped one spot to third in the rankings (720 points), overtaken by Sri Lankas Chamari Athapaththu (733 points), who moved into second place. Indias Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh also saw upward movement in the rankings. Rodrigues jumped four spots to 22nd after scoring 29 and 52 in the series, while Ghosh moved up seven places to 41st, aided by her unbeaten scores of 13 and 23. Meanwhile, Chinelle Henry of the West Indies surged 21 places to 65th, courtesy of her resilient half-century in the final ODI. Indias Deepti Sharma was the standout bowler of the series, claiming eight wickets across two matches, including a career-best 6/31 in the third ODI. This dominant performance closed the gap between Deepti and South Africas Marizanne Kapp in the bowling rankings. Deepti retained her fifth position but now sits just 12 points behind Kapp, with a rating of 665. Hayley Matthews off-spin also earned her a two-spot jump to seventh in the bowling rankings, surpassing Englands Charlie Dean and Bangladeshs Nahida Akter. Indias Titas Sadhu made her entry into the top 100 for the first time, marking a significant milestone in her young career. Despite their stellar individual performances, neither Matthews nor Deepti climbed in the ICC all-rounder rankings. Matthews remains in third place, and Deepti holds firm in sixth. However, Chinelle Henrys all-round contributions in the series pushed her up six spots to share the 27th position with Australias Megan Schutt. Mumbai, Dec 31 : As 2025 approaches, actor Eijaz Khan is gearing up for a year of self-improvement and growth. The actor has expressed his determination to become the best version of himself, both personally and professionally. Khan recently stated that he is focused on exploring new opportunities, stepping out of his comfort zone, and embracing challenges that will allow him to evolve in every aspect of his life. The Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka actor shared, For me, 2025 is all about exploring uncharted territories, both in my career and within myself. I want to take on roles that challenge me, surprise my directors, and leave audiences intrigued. Eijaz also plans to focus on storytelling that resonates with him personally. Im at a stage where I want my work to reflect a part of who I am. Whether its a big-budget production or an indie film, the authenticity of the story matters most to me. Reflecting on 2024, Khan mentioned, This year taught me the importance of self-reflection, and next year, I want to strengthen that foundation. Its not just about work; its about becoming a better version of myself. The actor also intends to focus on his health and well-being, recognizing the importance of these factors in enhancing his overall happiness and productivity. Eijaz stated, I want to ensure that my physical and mental health dont hinder my ability to pursue my passions or spend quality time with my loved ones. Talking about work, the 49-year-old actor expressed his hope to collaborate with directors and actors who inspire him. Hes also keen on projects that allow him to explore global narratives. Cinema is universal, and Id love to be part of stories that transcend boundaries, he added. Meanwhile, on the work front, the Bigg Boss 14 actor was most recently seen in the OTT film Zabt, alongside Rahul Dev and Manoj Joshi. The movie is available for streaming on Prasar Bharati's OTT platform, Waves. Auckland, Dec 31 : Auckland in New Zealand was among the first major cities in the world to usher in New Year 2025 on Tuesday as thousands enjoyed a dazzling fireworks display at the iconic Sky Tower. The annual fireworks illuminated the night sky as huge crowds gathered at the city's Central Business District (CBD) to take part in the celebrations. Millions around the globe are expected to join in the festivities in the coming hours. Following Auckland, people in Australia will revel in the festive atmosphere, with Sydney set to welcome the new year with the much-awaited fireworks displays at its landmark Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Celebrations will continue thereafter, from beach festivities in Indonesia's Bali to Singapore's Marina Bay, and from the vibrant atmosphere in New Delhi to the New Year's Eve display at Dubai's Burj Khalifa. London's fireworks along the River Thames and the iconic ball drop at New York's Times Square will also mark the occasion. Even though they are not too far away from New Zealand, the South Pacific islands of Niue and Samoa to the southwest of Kiribati are the last inhabited places to celebrate the new year. Niue, known as one of the largest upraised coral atolls in the world, is situated in the middle of the South Pacific within a triangle formed by Tonga, Samoa, and the Cook Islands. It is located towards the northeastern side of the International Date Line and is 11 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. Celebrations are also set to take place in Japan, where people traditionally ring in the new year by watching the first sunrise of the year. Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 : Suryabanshi Suraj, Odisha's Higher Education Minister, said on Tuesday here that the Union government has sanctioned Rs 670 crore for the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) in Odisha. Apart from this, the Minister also added that the Centre has also sanctioned an additional one per cent, amounting to Rs 6.7 crore, for the state under the Management Monitoring Evaluation and Research (MMER) grant. He said that the state will bear 40 per cent (Rs 268 crore) of the total grant while the Centre will provide Rs 408.7 crore as its share. The higher educational institutions in the state will receive Rs 676.7 crore under the PM -USHA scheme, he added. He noted that the PM-USHA scheme has been categorised under four components which include Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU), grants to strengthen universities (accredited and unaccredited) and colleges (accredited and unaccredited), gender inclusion and equity initiatives (GIEI). According to the Minister, four universities -- Ravenshaw University in Cuttack, Berhampur University in Ganjam, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University in Mayurbhanj and Sambalpur University in Odisha will get Rs 100 crore each under the MERU category. The financial assistance under MERU has been provided to strengthen the infrastructure, and education and research facilities in these universities. The universities present in the five districts of Odisha -- Vikram Deb Autonomous College (university) in Koraput, Rajendra University in Balangir and the Kalahandi University in Kalahandi, Odisha State Open University and Gangadhar Meher University in Sambalpur have been allotted Rs 20 crore each under the grants to strengthen universities category. Similarly, the districts including Bhadrak, Kandhamal, Nabaranagpur, Mayurbhanj and Sambalpur will get Rs 10 crore each under the GIEI to encourage the participation of women and other underprivileged groups in higher education through self-defence training programme, organisation of workshops for skill enhancement for self-employment, etc. As many as 24 colleges in different districts will be provided Rs 5 crore each under the grants to strengthen the colleges category. The Minister said that the funds provided under the PM-USHA scheme will be used for the improvement of classrooms, libraries, hostel rooms, enhancement of accessibility for differently-abled students, procurement of advanced laboratory equipment, etc., in the educational institutions in the state. The state government signed an MoU with the Ministry of Education in September this year to launch the PM-USHA scheme in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and State Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. Shaljhandi, December 31 : The 18th India-Nepal combined battalion level military training Exercise, Surya Kiran, commenced at Saljhandi in Nepal on Tuesday and will continue till January 13, an official statement said. During the exercise, an Infantry Battalion each from the Indian Army and the Nepali Army will be training together to develop inter-operability and share their experience of unorthodox modes of warfare including Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorist operations and also on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. A traditional opening ceremony was organsied to mark the commencement of the exercise in which both contingents marched in harmony to the Indian and Nepali military tunes, as per the statement. In a post on X, the Indian Army said, "The opening ceremony of 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, was held today at the Nepal Army Battle School, Shaljhandi, Nepal. The exercise is scheduled from 31 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. The objective of the exercise is to strengthen interoperability between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army in conducting Joint Operations under the UN Mandate. Two Nations, One Vision for Security." https://x.com/adgpi/status/1874042867431186699 Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung, General Officer Commanding Mid-West Division, Nepal Army addressed the gathering and exhorted the contingents to gain from each other's rich experience, enmesh the interoperability while simultaneously strengthening the brotherhood existing among the two nations, as per the statement. The Indian Army contingent had reached Saljhandi on December 29 where they were accorded a traditional military reception. Around 700 defence personnel from both the Armies are participating in the event. Exercise Surya Kiran showcases the strong bonds of friendship, trust and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. It also gives a platform for a productive and fruitful engagement between the armies of India and Nepal. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountains and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under United Nations Charter, according to the statement released by the Indian Army. New Delhi, December 31 : Union Minister for Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed the rural development works being carried out by the Central Government in Tamil Nadu in Chennai on Tuesday, said a statement from Ministry of Rural Development. During this, Singh said that Tamil Nadu is a very ancient and great state of the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolve is the overall development of Tamil Nadu, hence from the point of view of rural development also, the Central Government has assisted Tamil Nadu in every scheme. Union Minister informed during the review meeting that under the MGNREGA scheme in Tamil Nadu, the Central Government has given wages worth Rs. 12 thousand 603 crores to the labourers in the year 2023-24. This year also, 7 thousand 220 crore rupees have been released so far, so no worker remains unemployed here, everyone has work. He said that we have given 10,352 roads and 214 bridges to Tamil Nadu under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Out of these, 9,681 roads have been built, along with 150 bridges have also been built. Work is going on on 671 roads, it is expected that this work will also be completed on time. Singh said that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, our target is to build 8 lakh 15 thousand 771 houses in Tamil Nadu. Prime Minister Modi's target is that every poor person should get a permanent house, hence Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is being run. Out of 8 lakh 15 thousand 771 houses in Tamil Nadu, 7 lakh 47 thousand 542 houses have been approved so far and the first installment of 7 lakh 33 thousand 359 has also been released, out of which 6 lakh 31 thousand 512 houses have been completed. We have asked the Tamil Nadu government to complete the work of the remaining houses soon. Union Minister Chouhan said that this year too we have proposed to give 1 lakh 42 thousand 59 houses to Tamil Nadu for the poor, so that if the Tamil Nadu government wants, we will give houses here to the poor by March in this financial year, the first installment of which will be released. The construction of houses is going on, the remaining houses will be completed soon. Shivraj Singh said that apart from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, there is another ambitious scheme, the Women Empowerment Scheme, through which we are providing livelihood to poor sisters by forming self-help groups through the Livelihood Mission. PM has given two targets to the country. One, two crore houses are to be built for the poor in rural areas and second, three crore Lakhpati Didis are to be created. Chouhan expressed happiness that Lakhpati Didi program is also running in Tamil Nadu and about 10 lakh didis have become lakhpatis, Lakhpati Didi means a sister should earn more than one lakh rupees in a year, we are engaged in this campaign. Chouhan after reviewing all the schemes today has told all the colleagues of Tamil Nadu Government that under the leadership of PM Modi, we will provide all possible support to Tamil Nadu under the schemes and the expectation is that the Government of Tamil Nadu should also complete all these schemes at a fast pace and serve its people better. Champaign, IL (61820) Today Windy with a mix of clouds and sun. High 81F. Winds SSE at 25 to 35 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.. Tonight Variable clouds and windy with strong thunderstorms. Storms could contain damaging winds. Low 58F. Winds S at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 100%. In a new analysis of data from more than a dozen studies, coffee and tea consumption was linked with lower risks of developing head and neck cancers, including cancers of the mouth and throat. Cancers of the head and neck are the seventh most common forms of cancer worldwide, and rates are rising in low- and middle-income countries. Many studies have assessed whether drinking coffee or tea is associated with head and neck cancer, with inconsistent results. To provide additional insight, investigators led by the University of Utah's Huntsman Cancer Institute examined data from 14 studies by different scientists associated with the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology (INHANCE) consortium, a collaboration of research groups around the globe. Study participants completed questionnaires about their prior consumption of caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and tea in cups per day/week/month/year. While there has been prior research on coffee and tea consumption and reduced risk of cancer, this study highlighted their varying effects with different sub-sites of head and neck cancer, including the observation that even decaffeinated coffee had some positive impact. Coffee and tea habits are fairly complex, and these findings support the need for more data and further studies around the impact that coffee and tea can have on reducing cancer risk." Yuan-Chin Amy Lee, senior author, adjunct associate professor, Division of Public Health, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah When investigators pooled information on 9,548 patients with head and neck cancer and 15,783 controls without cancer, they found that compared with non-coffee-drinkers, individuals who drank more than 4 cups of caffeinated coffee daily had 17% lower odds of having head and neck cancer overall, 30% lower odds of having cancer of the oral cavity, and 22% lower odds of having throat cancer. Drinking three to four cups of caffeinated coffee was linked with a 41% lower risk of having hypopharyngeal cancer (a type of cancer at the bottom of the throat). Drinking decaffeinated coffee was associated with 25% lower odds of oral cavity cancer. Drinking tea was linked with 29% lower odds of hypopharyngeal cancer. Also, drinking one cup or less of tea daily was linked with a 9% lower risk of head and neck cancer overall and a 27% lower risk of hypopharyngeal cancer, but drinking more than one cup was associated with 38% higher odds of laryngeal cancer. Mergers and acquisitions of U.S. hospitals and health systems rarely improve the quality of care delivered or result in lower health care costs and prices, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS). The study, a systematic review of hundreds of published studies, comes amid accelerating health care integration, sometimes called consolidation. Nearly 70 percent of U.S. hospitals are now affiliated with a health system. Proponents of health care integration have claimed it controls costs and enhances care quality. But we found that evidence is lacking that integration alone is an effective strategy for improving the value of health care delivery." Bhagwan Satiani, MD, MBA, FACS, lead study author, professor of surgery emeritus at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio The study results send a clear message to health care leaders, Dr. Satiani said. "These findings provide an opportunity to better define value with a focus on benefiting patients while balancing the financial stability of the health care industry," he said. "Quality improvement in health care cannot be achieved by mergers and acquisitions alone." Effects of health care integration The authors' systematic review included studies published from 2000-2024. Of these, 37 met inclusion criteria. Among the 26 studies that measured quality of care, nearly 77 percent (20 studies) showed reduced quality or no change due to integration, the investigators reported. Only 23 percent (six studies) showed improved quality, primarily due to better care management processes rather than outcomes. Just one study found fewer patient deaths after integration. Hospital charges increased with integration 93 percent of the time, according to 13 of 14 studies measuring price changes. Of 16 studies assessing health care spending, 81 percent (13 studies) showed higher costs or no change. The researchers also reported the net impact of integration on quality, price, and spending: Only eight of 37 studies (22 percent) showed that health care integration had a positive (improved) net impact. More than half (54 percent, 20 studies) showed a negative (worse) net impact. In noting limitations of their review, Dr. Satiani said none of the reviewed studies used standard measures of quality, price, or spending. Also, most studies did not explore reasons for a lack of change in health care value after integration. How this study differs from previous research Although other researchers have reached similar conclusions, Dr. Satiani said their study differed in two ways. First, most studies of health care integration appear in health policy and economics publications and do not reach many surgeons, he noted. Yet, surgical services affect health organizations' bottom line, accounting for about one third of U.S. health care expenditures. "Surgical outcomes also have a direct impact on overall health care quality," he said. Second, Dr. Satiani said few of the published studies were systematic reviews, which are intended to reduce bias. In this study, after screening 1,297 U.S. articles published from 1990 to 2024, the investigators systematically reviewed 384 of them that discussed either horizontal or vertical health care integration. They defined horizontal integration as two or more hospitals merging and vertical integration as hospitals acquiring independent physician practices. To be included in the review, articles must have reported at least one of three measures of value: quality, price, and spending. Quality referred both to patient outcomes, such as the number of 30-day readmissions or deaths, and to care management processes. Such processes included staffing levels and use of nurse care managers. Price denoted the amount the organization charges the consumer per hospitalization, and spending was the organization's costs per patient. Focus on quality improvement Dr. Satiani said health care leaders should delineate organizational resources and infrastructure to quality improvement efforts and standardize quality metrics. As a model for quality improvement, he suggested the American College of Surgeons Quality Verification Program as a model improving surgical quality. Study coauthors are David Way, MEd; David Hoyt, MD, FACS; and E. Christopher Ellison, MD, FACS. Maharashtra Plans AI-Driven Road Safety and Scrapping of 15+ Year-Old Vehicles to Combat Accidents Published By : PTI Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:33 IST The state has signed a deal with Google to enhance AI integration, aiming to improve security and sustainability in the transport sector. Representative image of traffic jam in Mumbai | PTI Image Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has asked the state transport department officials to increase the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in order to minimise road accidents. Fadnavis also directed them to enforce policies for scrapping all vehicles above 15 years of age, a release issued by the Chief Ministers Office on Monday said. related stories The Maharashtra government has signed an agreement with Google, it said, adding the CM asked the transport department to increase the use of AI to strengthen the sectors security and sustainability, using the agreement. The CM reviewed the next 100-day action plans for the transport, ports and the state airport authority departments in a meeting at the Sahyadri guest house. He emphasised the need for scrapping all vehicles older than 15 years, both public and private. As per the release, more than 13,000 outdated government vehicles will be scrapped, and the state transport corporations buses older than 15 years will be replaced or retrofitted with the LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) kits to improve performance. The CM also outlined plans for the states electric vehicle (EV) policy, which is set to be released within the next three years, the release said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Fadnavis also instructed the transport department to introduce bike taxi and maxi cab services to enhance urban mobility. He stressed the importance of formulating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the safety of buses, especially in accident-prone ghat regions, the release added. First Published: December 31, 2024, 14:33 IST Stocks To Watch: ITC, Adani Ent, Lupin, SpiceJet, RVNL, Power Grid, And Others Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 08:06 IST Stocks to watch: Shares of firms like ITC, Adani Ent, Lupin, SpiceJet, RVNL, Power Grid, and others will be in focus on Tuesday's trade Stocks To Watch Stocks to Watch on December 31: Indian benchmark indices faced resistance around the 23,900 mark after reaching these levels early in Mondays trade, eventually closing in the red, with banks and auto stocks dragging the indices lower. The broader Nifty ended at 23,644.90, down by 168.50 points or 0.71%, while the 30-stock S&P BSE Sensex closed at 78,248.13, losing 450.94 points or 0.57%. Listings Today: Shares of Unimech Aerospace and Manufacturing will be listed on the NSE and BSE. related stories Adani Enterprises: The company has agreed to sell its entire 44% stake in the FMCG joint venture Adani Wilmar (AWL). The stake sale, which will occur in two phases, is expected to generate approximately $2.2 billion (Rs 18,817 crore) upon completion. Reliance Industries (RIL): RIL is seeking a premium of at least $3.5 per barrel over the international benchmark for crude oil produced from its eastern offshore KG-D6 block, according to a tender released on Monday. Lupin: The pharmaceutical company has acquired Huminsulin in India from Eli Lilly and Company, strengthening its diabetes portfolio. Adani Green Energy: The CEO of Adani Green Energy, Amit Singh, will step down and take charge as CEO of the Adani Groups International Energy Business from April 1, 2025. Ashish Khanna, currently CEO of the international business, will succeed Singh as the CEO of Adani Green Energy. ITC: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Kolkata has approved the demerger of ITCs hotel business, effective December 16. ITC Hotels will be listed within 60 days of receiving the NCLT order. The record date for determining ITC shareholders eligible for shares of ITC Hotels under the demerger is set for January 6, 2025. IT Stocks: Indias IT services sector is expected to see steady revenue growth of 7-9% in FY26, driven by increased spending in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sectors, as well as generative AI in the US and parts of Europe. SpiceJet: The airline will begin discussions with US-based aircraft manufacturer Boeing to resume deliveries of B737 Max planes from its 2017 order. SpiceJet had signed a deal with Boeing for 205 planes, including 100 B737 Max aircraft, in January 2017. Hindalco: Aditya Birla Groups metals arm expects to start production at the Meenakshi coal mine in Odisha by 2028. The mine, which has a peak capacity of 12 million tonnes per annum, holds 285.23 million tonnes of geological reserves. Bata India: The board of directors at Bata India approved a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) for eligible workers at its Bata Shatak Unit in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. RVNL: Rail Vikas Nigam (RVNL) emerged as the lowest bidder for the design, supply, erection, testing, and commissioning of traction substations and associated infrastructure for the Bhusaval-Khandwa sections of Central Railway. Dhanlaxmi Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved P. Suriaraj as the Executive Director of the bank for a 3-year term. Jubilant Ingrevia: The board of Jubilant Ingrevia approved its subsidiary Jubilant Infrastructure to purchase a 6.67% equity stake in Forum I Aviation Private Limited (FAPL) from Hero Fincorp Limited and Mr. Sunil Kant Munjal. Power Grid Corporation: The company transferred its 26% residual equity stake in four associate companies to the Powergrid Infrastructure Investment Trust (Powergrid INVIT). GMR Airport: The company has issued a letter of comfort to ICICI Bank for a Rs 100 crore working capital facility to be used by its subsidiary, GMR Nagpur International Airport. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Prataap Snacks: A fire incident occurred at one of the companys manufacturing units in Jammu and Kashmir. No casualties were reported. The company has adequate insurance coverage and is coordinating with the insurance company to assess the loss or damage caused. Disclaimer: Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. First Published: December 31, 2024, 08:06 IST BPSC Exam Protest: No Evidence Of Question Paper Leak Found, Says Bihar Minister Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 17:52 IST No evidence of a paper leak has been found in the BPSC exam, said Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, a senior minister in Bihar. BPSC aspirants continue to protest in Patna on Tuesday. (Image: PTI) Amid the ongoing demand to cancel the BPSC 70th CCE exam in Bihar, a close aide of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that no evidence of a question paper leak has been found so far. Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, a senior minister in the state cabinet, made the statement a day after the chief secretary met with protesters to address their concerns. related stories Speaking to reporters, Chaudhary said, The government could not have acted with greater clarity. The top official gave a patient hearing to the aggrieved party. But, to my information, no evidence of question paper leak has been furnished so far." So far, we believe there was no paper leak. The public service commission also holds this view. There was some disturbance at one exam center, and a re-examination has been arranged for the affected candidates," the minister said. However, it is clear there was a conspiracy. Rumors about a paper leak were spread, but no one knows where it leaked or who received it. Those responsible for this have played with the future of young students and must be exposed," he added. ALSO READ: BPSC Paper Leaks Put Nitish Kumars Sushasan In A Tight Spot Months Before Bihar Polls Students Meet Chief Secretary; Protest At Gardanibagh Continues On Monday, a delegation of students met with the Chief Secretary to present their demands. The Chief Secretary listened to their concerns and assured them that efforts would be made to resolve the issue at the earliest. Meanwhile, the protest at Patnas Gardanibagh continues, with political leaders visiting the site frequently. Pappu Yadav, MP from Purnia, met with the protesting students. The students shared that Pappu Yadav arrived at the protest site in the morning and held discussions with them. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Additionally, Prashant Kishor, founder of Jan Suraj, has announced that if the students demands are not met by January 2, he will join the protest himself. (With inputs from PTI) First Published: December 31, 2024, 17:49 IST Centre Approves Rs 676 Cr for Infra Devpt of Odisha's Varsities, Colleges Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 21:07 IST Suraj said that of Rs 676.70 crore, the state would bear Rs 268 crore (40 per cent) while the Centre would provide the remaining Rs 408.70 crore (60 per cent) The education ministry has also sanctioned Rs 5 crore each for 24 colleges under the GSC component (Representational/ PTI Photo) The Union government has approved Rs 676.70 crore for infrastructural development of various universities and colleges in Odisha under Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), state Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said here on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters here, Suraj said that of Rs 676.70 crore, the state would bear Rs 268 crore (40 per cent) while the Centre would provide the remaining Rs 408.70 crore (60 per cent). related stories The fund has been approved under different components, including Multi Disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU), Grants to Strengthen Universities (GSU), Grants to Strengthen Colleges (GSC) and Gender Inclusion and Equity Initiatives (GIEI), and Management Monitoring Evaluation and Research (MMER), he said. He said Rs 100 crore each has been approved for Berhampur University; Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University, Baripada; Ravenshaw University, Cuttack; and Sambalpur University, under the MERU component of the scheme. Similarly, under the GSU component, Vikram Dev University, Jeypore, Odisha State Open University, Sambalpur, Kalahandi University, Bhawanipatna, Rajendra University, Bolangir and Gangadhar Meher University, Sambalpur would get Rs 20 crore each for development of infrastructure, Suraj said. The education ministry has also sanctioned Rs 5 crore each for 24 colleges under the GSC component, while five districts Kandhamal, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Nabarangpur and Sambalpur would get Rs 10 crore each for carrying out gender inclusion and equity initiatives, he added. Under the PM-USHA scheme, provisions have also been made for the development of classrooms, laboratories, libraries and hostels and making the infrastructure accessible to persons with disabilities, he said. Besides, the higher educational institutions can procure software and hardware to enhance digital education, the minister said. To attract more women students, the higher educational institutes can offer skill development, career buildings and self-defence training under the gender inclusion and equity initiative component of the central scheme. With the implementation of the scheme, the NAAC ranking of the higher educational institutes would improve in coming years, he hoped. The minister said that the government is working to implement the National Education Policy 2020 to make the educational institutions multi-disciplinary and students compatible with global standards. Meanwhile, Berhampur University vice chancellor Geetanjali Dash said, We are happy as the central government approved the much-needed project for overall development of the university." The fund will help the university have better infrastructure and increase research output, putting the university on the map as a top-tier institution," she said, adding, the fund will be utilised over the next five years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Describing MERU as a big gift from the central government to the Berhampur University, which will celebrate its foundation day on January 2, local MP Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy thanked Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for giving his nod to the release of much-needed fund to the university. We hope the university will use the fund to meet the goals in research, ranking and infrastructure and to make the institute competitive on the international level," the MP said. Location : Bhubaneswar, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 21:06 IST How Bird Flu And Other Pathogens Could Pose Serious Health Threats In 2025 | Explained Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 17:11 IST Apart from H5N1 influenza A virus or bird flu, which has set the alarm bells ringing in the US, malaria tuberculosis, and HIV are the three infectious diseases causing the biggest concern for health officials around the world The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms. (Representational Photo; Credit: CDC) As we head to a new year, with everyone hoping and praying for good health and luck, there is still some lingering effect of the Covid-19 pandemic that had disrupted our lives for good three years. The impact of Covid has been such that we fear every year about another pandemic. With Covid retreat, the three infectious diseases causing public health concerns are malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. related stories But there is one influenza virus that is setting the alarm bells ringing and could pose a serious health problem in 2025. And that is H5N1 or bird flu. This virus is widely spread in both wild and domestic birds, such as poultry. Recently, it has also been infecting dairy cattle in the US and found in horses in Mongolia. How Serious Is H5N1 In The US Right Now Bird flu, is a highly pathogenic subtype of avian influenza A, known for causing severe illness in poultry and occasionally transmitting to humans and other mammals. Although primarily affecting birds, the virus can lead to fatal outcomes in non-bird species, including humans. The virus was first identified in China in 1996, with notable human fatalities during outbreaks, including one in Hong Kong in 1997. The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks, as per reports. The CDC stressed there has been no known transmission of the virus from the Louisiana patient to anyone else. It said its findings about the mutations were concerning," but the risk to the general public from the outbreak has not changed and remains low". The US Department of Agriculture has begun a national milk testing programme to track the spread of the virus through dairy cattle, and the agency has brought on 13 states that account for almost half of the countrys dairy production. The World Health Organization says on its website that from 2003 to November 2024 about 142 people died from the H5N1 virus around the world. Most of the deaths were in Southeast Asia. Can H5N1 Spread Person To Person? No, the bird flu doesnt seem to transmit from person to person, which reduces its likelihood of causing a pandemic in humans. Influenza viruses have to attach to molecular structures called sialic receptors on the outside of cells in order to get inside and start replicating. Bird flu, on the other hand, is highly adapted to bird sialic receptors and has some mismatches when binding" (attaching) to human ones. So, in its current form, H5N1 cant easily spread in humans," as per a report by The Conversation. But, interestingly, a recent study showed that a single mutation in the flu genome could make human to human transmission possible, which could lead to a pandemic. What Precautions To Take? The government agencies in the US have recommended people to drink pasteurized milk, as it would inactivate the virus. The Food and Drug Administration and other health agencies warn consumers not to drink raw milk, not just because of the risk of H5N1 but also E. coli, salmonella and listeria. Some of the common preventive measures include avoiding contact with sick birds, maintaining good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, and ensuring poultry products are cooked thoroughly. Furthermore, wearing protective gear while handling sick birds or cleaning contaminated areas can provide an extra layer of defence, effectively lowering the risk of transmission. What Are Other Pathogens That Can Be A Concern In 2025? Malaria: Malaria continues to be a global health threat. Despite being a life-threatening disease, spread to humans by mosquitoes, the disease is preventable and curable. Mild symptoms include fever, chills and headache. Severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and with medicines. According to the latest World malaria report, there were 263 million cases of malaria in 2023 compared to 252 million cases in 2022. The estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 597 000 in 2023 compared to 600 000 in 2022. Since October 2021, WHO has recommended broad use of the RTS.S/AS01 malaria vaccine among children living in regions with moderate to high P. falciparum malaria transmission. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all HIV: The human immunodeficiency virus still affects millions despite advancement in medicine. HIV targets the bodys white blood cells, weakening the immune system. This makes it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infections and some cancers. There were an estimated 39.9 million people living with HIV at the end of 2023, 65% of whom are in the WHO African Region. HIV can be prevented and treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Untreated HIV can lead to AIDS, often after many years. Tuberculosis: TB affects more than 10 million people in the world. It is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that most often affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when people with TB cough, sneeze or spit. However, it is preventable and curable. TB disease is usually treated with antibiotics and can be fatal without treatment. BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guerin) vaccine is given to babies to prevent them from serious forms of TB. A total of 1.25 million people died from tuberculosis (TB) in 2023. First Published: December 31, 2024, 17:07 IST Whats The Future Of H-1B Visa, Will Trump Continue With It? What Were Approvals During His First Term? Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 11:03 IST Elon Musk, who has been backed by Donald Trump on H-1B visa programme, may have the capacity to slash regulations, given his contracts worth billions of dollars with the US government and his new position at DOGE Many economists believe the economic contributions of H-1B workers in particular may increase the employment opportunities of native-born workers in the US. (AP file photo) The most sought-after H-1B visa programme for highly-skilled professionals has received a strong backing from Elon Musk, who is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the new Donald Trump government. Musk, who blasted a user on X discussing SpaceX processes, argued that foreign workers are needed for tech companies like Tesla and SpaceX. The reason Im in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B," Musk wrote on X. related stories President-elect Trump has also backed Musk, and told the New York Post that he always liked the visas". I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B". That said, how did the visa programme perform during Trumps first term, what was the approval rate and impact on the US economy. Lets find out. How H-1B Performed During Trump 1.0 As per the US governments official records, the number of H-1B recipients who were allowed into the US rose from 570,368 in the financial year 2018 to 601,594 in the financial year 2019. However, the number fell to 368,440 in the financial year 2020. The restrictions imposed by Trump on the recipients of nonimmigrant work visas such as the H-1B expired in March 2021 and were not renewed by the Joe Biden administration. However, admissions in H-1B status continued to drop to a low of 148,603 in financial year 2021, due in large part to the continuing impact of Covid-19 pandemic, according to US official records. The number of entrants increased to 4.10 lakh in 2022, and then further to 7.55 lakh in 2023. In fiscal year 2023, Indians constituted 72.3% of all H-1B visa holders, reflecting a consistent trend of Indian nationals dominating this category. In contrast, Chinese applicants accounted for only 11.7% of approvals, as per a report in Mint. Aside from approval, the rate of denial also rose sharply under Trumps first term. The rate increased from 6% in 2016 to 24% in 2018. This spike was attributed to stricter scrutiny and a more challenging application process. The denial rate again reduced to 21% in 2019, 13% in 2020 and 4% in 2021, according to US Department of State data. However, by 2022, the denial rate had decreased significantly to just 2%, indicating a shift back towards more favourable outcomes for H-1B visa applicants. Whats The Future Of H-1B Under Trump 2.0? Musk had made the case for expanding the visa programme in one of his posts on X. We should greatly increase legal immigration of anyone who is hard-working, honest and loves America," he wrote. Every such person is an asset to the country. But massive illegal immigration of people we know nothing about is insane." Given Musks contracts worth billions of dollars with the US government and his new position at DOGE, the tech mogul would ostensibly have the capacity to slash regulations, even if its under H-1B, that restrict his own ventures. Former US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster told CNBCTV18 in an interview that he does not foresee any precipitous changes" to the H-1B visa or Green Card programmes under the incoming administration. Meanwhile, some of Trumps most vocal and committed MAGA supporters have criticised the visa programme as inconsistent with the America First and anti-immigration philosophy on which the president-elect built his appeal. Some critics also argue that by importing foreign workers, the US government blocks the path to advancement for American workers and college graduates, including minorities. Steve Bannon, who served in the first Trump administration, blasted H-1B visas on his War Room" podcast as a scam" by Silicon Valley oligarchs that are about taking American jobs and bringing over what essentially become indentured servants at lower wages". How H-1B Impacts The US Economy Many economists believe the economic contributions of H-1B workers in particular may increase the employment opportunities of native-born workers in the US. Thus, the unemployment rates are relatively low in occupations that employ large numbers of H-1B workers. Let us look at how the H-1B contributes to the US economy. Employment Rate American Immigration Council said a recent study found that between 2005 and 2018 an increase in the share of workers for a particular occupation, who were H-1B visa holders, was associated with a decrease in the unemployment rate within that job. Another recent study found that restrictions on H-1B visas (such as rising denial rates) motivate US-based multinational corporations to reduce the number of jobs they offer in the US. Instead, the corporations increase employment at their existing foreign affiliates or open new foreign affiliatesparticularly in India, China, and Canada. A study conducted in 2019 revealed that higher rates of successful H-1B applications were positively correlated with an increased number of patents filed and patent citations. Moreover, such startups were more inclined to secure venture capital funding and achieve successful IPOs or acquisitions. Wages In 2021, the median wage of an H-1B worker was $108,000, compared to $45,760 for US workers in general. Moreover, between 2003 and 2021, the median wage of H-1B workers grew by 52%. During the same period, the median wage of all US workers increased by 39%. In FY 2019, 78% of all employers who hired H-1B workers offered wages to H-1B visa holders that were higher than what the Department of Labor had determined to be the prevailing wage" for a particular kind of job. Economic Benefits Different communities in the US felt the benefits of the H-1B visa programme. From 2017 to 2022, the largest numbers of H-1B petitioners were based in the New York City metropolitan area (372,100 H-1B visa petition approvals, or 15.2 percent of all H-1B visa petition approvals in the country); followed by San Jose, California (215,700); San Francisco (165,000); and Dallas (150,200). The Covid-19 pandemic served as a reminder that the skills which H-1B workers bring with them can be critical in responding to national emergencies. For instance, between 2010 and 2019, eight US companies that would later participate in the development of a Covid-19 vaccineGilead Sciences, Moderna Therapeutics, GlaxoSmithKline, Inovio, Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceuticals, Regeneron, Vir Therapeutics, and Sanofireceived approvals for 3,310 biochemists, biophysicists, chemists, and other scientists through the H-1B programme. In addition, many medical doctors on the front lines of the pandemic are present in the US on H-1B visas. A Reckoner On The H-1B Visa Programme The H-1B visas for skilled workers were introduced in 1990. They are typically granted for three years, but can be extended for up to six years. Since 2004, the number of new H-1B visas issued has been limited at 85,000 per year 20,000 of which are reserved for foreign students with masters degrees or higher from US universities. However, that cap does not apply to universities, think tanks and other non-profit research groups. Thus, more H-1B visas are issued. The US government also approves extensions for those already working in the country. The vast majority of approved applicants work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Most are in computer-related occupations 65% in the 2023 fiscal year. This was followed by architecture, engineering and surveying about 10% of people approved in 2023 worked in those sectors. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In terms of companies, Amazon was the top employer of people on H-1B visas in 2024, hiring more than 13,000 staff via the scheme, as per a report by BBC. Google, Meta, and Apple ranked 4th, 6th and 8th respectively on the employer list. Tesla, one of the companies owned by Musk ranked 22nd, employing 1,700 people on an H-1B visa. First Published: December 31, 2024, 10:53 IST Why SC Collegium May Stop Recommending Judges Relatives For High Court Judgeship | Explained Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:19 IST The collegium believes although some deserving candidates, who are close relatives of sitting Supreme Court judges, may lose out, but their exclusion from the selection process would enable many meritorious first-generation lawyers to enter constitutional courts The collegium, comprising CJI Sanjiv Khanna and Justices BR Gavai and Surya Kant, has started interacting with lawyers and judicial officers, recommended by high court collegiums for appointment as high court judges. (File Photo) The Supreme Court (SC) collegium is likely to scrap the practice of recommending close relatives of judges as high court judges, in order to remove the perception of nepotism in higher judiciary and bring in more inclusivity in appointments. Reports suggest that the collegium could consider the idea of instructing high courts to refrain from recommending candidates whose parents or close relatives were former Supreme Court or high court judges. related stories Why Did The SC Collegium Decide This? The SC collegium held meetings on December 22 and recommended six names to the Centre for appointment as judges in high courts at Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Bombay and Allahabad. The need to reintroduce personal interactions has gained momentum after a recent controversy involving Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court. Justice Yadavs contentious remarks at a VHP event in December, when he called for India to function according to the majoritys wishes, had sparked widespread criticism. Justice Yadav appeared before the Supreme Court collegium on December 17 to describe his version on the controversy. The top court on December 10 took note of news reports over the statements and sought a report from the Allahabad High Court on the issue. The Supreme Court has taken note of newspaper reports of a speech given by Mr Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, a sitting judge of the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad. The details and particulars have been called from the high court and the matter is under consideration," an official statement said earlier. According to the established norm, a judge, against whom a report is sought by the SC collegium on any controversial issue from the high court concerned, is given opportunity to put forth his or her version before the top court collegium headed by the Chief Justice of India. What Did The SC Collegium Say On Nepotism? The SC collegium is aware that some deserving candidates, who are close relatives of sitting Supreme Court judges, may lose out, but that wont harm them as they can earn money and fame as successful lawyers. Their exclusion from the selection process would enable many deserving first-generation lawyers to enter constitutional courts, allowing representation of diverse communities in the Supreme Court and high courts, as per a report by The Times of India. The collegium, comprising CJI Sanjiv Khanna and Justices BR Gavai and Surya Kant, has started interacting with lawyers and judicial officers, recommended by high court collegiums for appointment as high court judges. Earlier, the top court vetted the curriculum vitae of lawyers and judicial officers submitted by high court collegiums, intelligence reports on their antecedents, as well as opinions of governors and chief ministers concerned. What Is The Supreme Court Collegium? The collegium system, headed by a chief justice, decides the appointment and transfer of judges. The forum consists of four senior-most Supreme Court judges as well. The collegium decides the elevation of Chief Justices/Judges of High Court to the Supreme Court, judges of High Courts as Chief Justices and other judges. In case of a difference of opinion, the majority view will prevail. A High Court collegium consists of the two judges with the next two highest ranks. This collegium suggests candidates for the High Court positions. A collegium of the Chief Justice and Supreme Courts two senior-most judges takes the final call. What Is The Criticism Against The Collegium? The Central government has not embraced the collegium system. It has criticised the opaque nature of the current system behind a large number of judicial vacancies. The NDA government in 2003 introduced the Constitution (98th Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha for the formation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC). The NJC would be chaired by the CJI, with two of the senior-most judges of the Supreme Court as its members. The Union law minister would be a member along with an eminent citizen to be nominated by the President in consultation with the Prime Minister. The NJC would decide the appointment and transfer of judges and probe cases of misconduct by judges, including those from the highest judiciary. Thus, in 2014, the NDA government introduced the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act to provide the executive branch a significant role in selecting judges for the higher courts. But in 2015, the Supreme Court overturned it. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recently, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a petition against the collegium. The petition sought a new mechanism for the appointment. The matter was mentioned by Advocate Mathews J Nedumpara before a Bench comprising former CJI Chandrachud, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice JB Pardiwala. In the plea, Nedumpara and others asked the court to declare that the collegium synonym for nepotism and favoritism, as it has resulted in the denial of fair opportunity in the selection and appointment of judges". First Published: December 31, 2024, 14:12 IST Atul Subhash Suicide: Techie's Lawyer Says Wife Nikita Should Not Use Child As Tool For Bail Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 07:45 IST The bail application for Nikita Singhania, the wife of Atul Subhash, is scheduled to be heard on January 4 in a Bengaluru court Atul Subhash's wife Nikita Singhania was arrested on Sunday in connection with his suicide. (Photo: Bengaluru Whitefield Police) The accused wife should not use the child to get bail in court, said Akash Jindal, the lawyer of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, who died by suicide alleging harassment from his wife and her family for Rs 3 crore divorce settlement. The bail application for Nikita Singhania, the wife of Atul Subhash, is scheduled to be heard on January 4 in a Bengaluru court. Nikitas bail petition was filed on Monday, and her legal team, along with that of the other accused, presented arguments against granting bail to the accused in the case. related stories Counsel representing Atul Subhashs family further emphasised the increasing criminal nature of the case and argued that Nikita should not be allowed to benefit from custody of the child, asserting their request for full custody. They also highlighted the severity of the crime committed, noting that a habeas corpus petition had been filed in the Supreme Court. The court directed authorities in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Haryana to locate the child. Once found, further directions will be given regarding custody. The family expressed concern over the circumstances, questioning why the 4-year-old child had been staying away from his mother and residing in a hostel. They also raised alarms about the childs safety. Pavan Kumar Modi, Atul Subhashs father, voiced his concern for the childs safety, stating that if bail is granted to Atuls wife, she could potentially harm the child. If she could drive my son to suicide, she might also harm the child," he said. He further alleged that Nikita treated the child as an ATM," requesting large sums of money under the guise of caring for him. He claimed she demanded between Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000, then raised it to Rs 80,000, and continued to ask for more. This led the family to seek custody of the child through the Supreme Court, as they believed the child would be safer in their care. Bikas Kumar, Atul Subhashs brother, expressed satisfaction with the police investigation, noting their support and cooperation. We are focused on securing custody of the child, and we have informed our lawyer of this. The matter is now before the Supreme Court," he said. When asked about the childs current location, Bikas stated they did not know where Atuls son was but were awaiting a January 7 hearing in the Supreme Court for updates. Atul Subhash, who worked for an automobile company in Bengaluru, allegedly took his own life on December 9 after being pressured by his wife, Nikita Singhania, and her family to pay a Rs 3 crore divorce settlement. He left behind a 90-minute video and a 40-page death note, detailing how his wifes harassment drove him to take the extreme step. Three individualsNikita, her mother, and her brotherwere arrested and sent to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the case. An FIR was filed under Sections 108 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) on December 9. Bikas Kumar had filed a police complaint with Marathahalli police, accusing the family of abetting Atuls suicide. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Bikas alleged that false charges were filed against Atul by the accused, and they had demanded Rs 3 crore as part of a settlement. He also claimed that his brother was taunted during court proceedings, being told he would either pay the sum or end his life. Nikitas family, in contrast, accused Subhash of demanding a substantial dowry, which they claimed contributed to the death of Nikitas father. First Published: December 31, 2024, 07:45 IST Chhattisgarh Man Goes To Meet Girlfriend, Beaten To Death By Her Lover; 5 Arrested Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 08:49 IST The victim succumbed to injuries in hospital after he was allegedly assaulted by a few men with sticks at around 9 pm on Sunday, the police officials said. Representative image of Chhattisgarh Police | PTI Image Five people have been arrested for allegedly beating a man to death in Chhattisgarhs Durg, the police said on Monday, claiming that the case was related to a triangular love relationship. The victim, identified as Chetan, succumbed to injuries in hospital after he was allegedly assaulted by a few men with sticks at around 9 pm on Sunday, the police officials claimed. related stories According to the FIR registered in the case, Chetan was in a relationship with a girl and both their mothers were employed in the police department. The girls mother was transferred to Surguja district a few days ago, following which the girl also had to leave Durg to settle with her mother. The girl met another man in Surguja, whose name is said to be Lukesh. They both entered a relationship, according to the police. Meanwhile, Chetan constantly approached the girl by calling her. But she did not respond to Chetans calls and messages. On December 24, the girl came back to Durg with her mother for some official work and Chetan, from somewhere, got this information and asked her to meet him. According to the FIR, the girl refused to meet him but he did not budge and allegedly started harassing her. The girl told Lokesh about Chetan harassing her. On hearing this, Lukesh told the girl to call Chetan to meet her. Following the plan, the girl called Chetan to meet her near her house in the Civil Line area in Durg. When Chetan arrived to meet the girl, Lukesh and his friends were already present. Tensions flared quickly, leading to an argument between the two, which soon turned into a violent physical confrontation. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Lukesh, along with his friends, brutally beat up Chetan with sticks, who later died during treatment, according to a police complaint. After receiving the information about the incident, the police reached the spot. The accused, who had fled the spot after the incident, were apprehended by the police within a few hours. The girl was also taken into custody. Further investigation into the matter is underway. Location : Chhattisgarh, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 08:49 IST I Want To Say Sorry: Manipur CM Biren Singh Apologises For Ethnic Strife In State Published By : PTI Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 17:32 IST Biren Singh said he hopes normalcy will be restored in the coming year. N Biren Singh said there has been relative peace in the last three to four months in Manipur. (IMAGE: PTI) Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday apologised for the ethnic conflict in the state which claimed over 250 lives and rendered thousands homeless, and appealed to all communities to forget and forgive past mistakes and live together in a peaceful and prosperous state. Addressing reporters here, Singh said that there has been relative peace in the state in the last three-four months, which gives him hope that normalcy will be restored in the new year. related stories I want to say sorry for what happened in the state. Many people lost their loved ones and many had to leave their homes. I regret and want to apologise. But after seeing relative peace in the last three-four months, I hope that normalcy will be restored in the coming year. Whatever happened has happened I want to appeal to all communities to forgive and forget our past mistakes and start life afresh by living together in a peaceful and prosperous Manipur," he said. Singh said firing incidents have declined in the state over the last 20 months since the ethnic conflict began in May 2023. From May to October, 2023, 408 firing incidents were reported. From November 2023 to April 2024, there were 345 firing incidents, whereas from May this year till now, 112 firing incidents were reported," he said. He said that of all the looted weapons, 3,112 have been recovered and 2,511 explosives have been seized during the period. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The chief minister further said that 625 people have been arrested and 12,047 FIRs registered so far. More than 250 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. Location : Imphal, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 17:32 IST 'Serious Breach Of Oath, Insults Constitution': Kerala CM On Nitesh Rane's 'Mini-Pakistan' Remarks Published By : IANS Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 15:10 IST CM Pinarayi Vijayan termed Nitesh Rane's remarks as highly provocative and condemnable after the latter called Kerala a "mini-Pakistan" during an event in Pune. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan (File image: X) Kerala Chief Minister on Tuesday criticised Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Ranes mini-Pakistan" statement, saying it is a serious breach of oath that insults the countrys Constitution. In a statement issued here by his office, CM Vijayan said Nitesh Ranes remarks are highly provocative and condemnable. and the Maharashtra ministers words reveal the Sangh Parivars basic approach towards Kerala. related stories The Sangh Parivar believes that it can isolate the territory where it is difficult to establish influence by alienating it and spreading hate propaganda. Such statements are made in response to that," said CM Vijayan. The minister who made the hateful statement does not deserve to continue in that position. It is surprising that the leadership of the ruling party in the country has not responded to the action of the minister who committed a serious breach of oath that insults the countrys Constitution," added CM Vijayan. Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V D Satheesan, said Rane, who called Kerala a mini-Pakistan" and insulted Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, should resign from his position as a minister. Satheesan reminded that a similar statement was also made by senior CPI(M) leader and politburo member A Vijayaraghavan, who said that Rahul secured victory in the Wayanad seat twice with the support of communal forces and that extremist elements were present at Priyanka Gandhis campaign rallies. KPCC chief K Sudhakaran MP has alleged that both the BJP and the CPI(M) are orchestrating a coordinated effort to tarnish Keralas secular legacy. In a statement, he said that BJP leader and Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Ranes hate speech, based on CPI(M) Politburo member Vijayaraghavans statement, stands as evidence of this conspiracy. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Rane made this provocative remark at a programme in Pune. He referred to Kerala as a mini-Pakistan" and alleged that only extremists in Kerala" vote for members of the Gandhi family, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. Ranes statement triggered a political storm, drawing severe criticism from the opposition parties, who accused him of spreading hatred" and demanded immediate action against him. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: December 31, 2024, 15:10 IST Kerala Lottery Results Today: Sthree Sakthi SS-448 WINNERS for December 31, 2024; Full List Here! Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 04, 2025, 09:01 IST Kerala Lottery Results Today: Here's FULL LIST of winning numbers for Sthree Sakthi SS-448 lucky draw for Tuesday, December 31. Kerala Lottery Sthree Sakthi SS-448 Results: The first prize winner of Sthree Sakthi SS-448 will get Rs 75 lakh. (Image: Shutterstock) KERALA LOTTERY STHREE SAKTHI SS-448 RESULT ON TUESDAY, 31.12.2024, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results for the Sthree Sakthi SS-448 Lottery for Tuesday, December 31. The first-place winner will receive a grand prize of Rs 75 lakh, while the second and third prizes are Rs 10 lakh and Rs 5,000, respectively. Check the Full List of Winning Numbers below. ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Results Today: Karunya KR-687 WINNERS for January 4, 2025; First Prize Rs 80 Lakh! related stories FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR STHREE SAKTHI SS-448 LOTTERY WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE WORTH RS 8,000 ARE SN 841794 SO 841794 SP 841794 SR 841794 SS 841794 ST 841794 SU 841794 SW 841794 SX 841794 SY 841794 SZ 841794 WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE WORTH RS 75 LAKH IS SV 841794 (KAYAMKULAM) Agent Name: BINU C Agency No: A 6347 WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE WORTH RS 10 LAKH IS SU 124617 (ADIMALY) Agent Name: ANEESH V C Agency No: Y 5102 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 3RD PRIZE WORTH RS 5,000 ARE 0252 0277 0680 0820 1715 1846 2262 2959 3221 4035 4168 4908 7795 8226 8334 8562 8565 9427 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE WORTH RS 2,000 ARE 0785 1389 1641 3097 3181 3522 4935 5140 5500 5738 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE WORTH RS 1,000 ARE 0354 0523 1307 1816 1946 2362 2411 2969 3159 3228 3457 3764 4111 4406 5959 6489 6741 7508 8976 9022 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE WORTH RS 500 ARE 0182 0240 0329 0359 0781 0807 0826 0941 1032 1107 1145 1285 1474 2089 2108 2248 2551 2571 3014 3560 3597 3830 3916 3927 4165 5005 5651 5654 5938 6195 6368 7211 7488 7549 7817 7820 7859 7866 7878 8165 8301 8376 8622 8923 9135 9162 9265 9295 9460 9613 9795 9828 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE WORTH RS 200 ARE 0152 0192 0557 1812 1925 1995 2034 2186 2254 2383 2853 2905 3046 3367 3675 3773 3790 3874 4084 4109 4247 4330 4965 5167 5517 5592 5673 5893 5925 6305 6782 6956 7037 7257 7398 7787 7792 7839 7911 9316 9326 9436 9519 9698 9790 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE WORTH RS 100 ARE 0048 0084 0308 0353 0433 0453 0503 0646 0705 0733 0777 0869 1046 1082 1263 1303 1388 1392 1429 1455 1505 1546 1749 1863 2123 2175 2232 2424 2527 2533 2624 2655 2700 2701 2831 2873 3070 3230 3290 3413 3427 3566 3654 3714 3825 3829 3840 3889 3984 4045 4127 4133 4156 4255 4299 4378 4483 4529 4537 4598 4630 4860 5332 5369 5381 5413 5434 5480 5486 5524 5558 5611 5644 5659 5694 5951 6043 6140 6323 6388 6407 6430 6521 6586 6591 6718 6798 6851 6864 6887 7087 7174 7345 7450 7501 7776 7825 7925 8016 8177 8258 8269 8390 8502 8607 8666 8785 8881 8912 8952 8970 9118 9253 9383 9432 9437 9550 9571 9583 9717 9771 9839 9852 9878 9909 9982 HOW TO VERIFY KERALA STHREE SAKTHI SS-448 LOTTERY RESULTS? Visit the official website of the Kerala Lottery Department, www.keralalottery.info, to check the results for Sthree Sakthi SS-448. Winning numbers are also available at the Kerala Government Gazette office. For the most precise and reliable results, check the official sources. HOW TO COLLECT YOUR PRIZE MONEY? Winners can verify the authenticity of their ticket by referencing the results in the Kerala Government Gazette. To receive the prize, winners need to go to the Kerala Lottery Office in Thiruvananthapuram within 30 days. A legitimate ID and the winning ticket must be presented for prize verification. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY? A self-signed photocopy of the winning ticket of both sides. Passport-sized photos, validated by a Gazetted Officer. A signed duplicate of the participants PAN card. An online claim form for the prize, with a revenue stamp attached. Identification proof, including a PAN card, Aadhaar card, voter ID or ration card. HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS? Go to the official websites of the Kerala Lottery Department at keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net. Locate the link for the Sthree Sakthi SS-448 results. The winning numbers will be shown on your screen. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Search for the option to download the results on the page. Save the SS-448 lottery results in a PDF format. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: December 31, 2024, 09:00 IST Kerala Nurse Nimisha Priya's Death Sentence Approved By Yemen President, India Extends Help Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Sumedha Kirti Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 10:58 IST Nimisha Priya death sentence: Kerala nurse was found guilty of killing Yemeni national and has been in prison since 2017. She was sentenced to death by a trial court in Yemen in 2018. Nimisha Priya Death Sentence in Yemen: Reports stated that the sentence will be executed in a month's time. (Credit: News18 Malayalam) India is extending all possible help" to explore relevant options in the death sentence of Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse who was convicted of murdering a Yemeni citizen. Sources said that unless a pardon from the victims family is obtained, the execution will take place in a month. Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government is aware of the sentencing of Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter," he added. related stories Priya was found guilty of killing Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi and has been in prison since 2017. She was sentenced to death by a trial court in Yemen in 2018 and her family has been fighting for her release since then. According to The New Indian Express, Nimishas 57-year-old mother, Prema Kumari, had reached Yemens capital Sanaa earlier this year, and has been staying there to secure a waiver of the death penalty and negotiate the blood money with victims family. She was provided assistance by the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council comprising NRI social workers based in Yemen, the report added. The publication mentioned that negotiations with Nimishas family reached a dead end in September this year after the lawyer engaged by the Indian Embassy demanded more funds, part of which were raised by the Action council. We worked tirelessly to save Nimisha Priyas life, but our efforts ended in vain. We managed to collect 40,000 dollars (around Rs 34,20,000), and were prepared to raise even more to save her. Along with the Action council, the chief minister, the leader of opposition, former union minister and various leaders across political lines joined hands in this effort," Nenmara MLA K Babu was quoted. Nimisha Priya, in 2014, came in contact with Talal Abdo Mahdi, who promised to help her in starting her own clinic as a partnership was required under the Yemeni law. She set up a clinic in 2015, with the help of Mahdi. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Soon, differences cropped up between her and Mahdi and she had alleged abuse, torture by him and taking away her passport, making her trip back to her home state impossible. Mahdi also misrepresented himself as her husband to the Yemeni authorities, due to which she couldnt get any aid from them, as per reports. In a bid to reclaim her passport confiscated by Talal Abdo Mahdi, she allegedly injected him with sedatives. However, an overdose of the sedative resulted in his death. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: December 31, 2024, 09:39 IST 'Disrespecting Leaders Congress's DNA': KTR Slams Rahul Gandhi's Vietnam Trip Amid Mourning Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:14 IST BRS leader KT Rama Rao has slammed the Congress for disrespecting leaders, citing Rahul Gandhi's Vietnam trip during Manmohan Singh's mourning. BRS leader KT Rama Rao (Photo: PTI) Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao on Tuesday said disrespecting leaders of the country was the very definition and the core DNA of Congress". Raos statement came in the backdrop of Congress leader Rahul Gandhis visit to Vietnam to ring in the New Year while the country is mourning the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The BRS leader also said he was surprised" at the naivete of those who were surprised by Gandhis trip. related stories I am more surprised by the naivete of people who are surprised by Rahul Gandhis Vietnam trip during the mourning period for Shri Manmohan Singh ji !" (sic) KT Rama Rao wrote in an X post. We in Telangana didnt forget what they did to Late Shri PV Narasimha Rao ji! Disrespecting great leaders who spent every breath of their life for Congress and our country is the very definition and the core DNA of Congress," he added. I am more surprised by the naivete of people who are surprised by Rahul Gandhis Vietnam trip during the mourning period for Shri Manmohan Singh ji !We in Telangana didnt forget what they did to Late Shri PV Narasimha Rao ji! Disrespecting great leaders who spent every KTR (@KTRBRS) December 31, 2024 Hours later, Congress MP Manickam Tagore responded to Rao, alleging that his post was a classic BJP IT cell playbook". Tagore also claimed Rao echoes the Bharatiya Janata Partys narrative to escape the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Classic BJP IT cell playbook: spreading lies and manufacturing fake outrage," Tagore quoted Raos post and wrote. Some seem to echo their narrative just to dodge the ED. Enjoy your New Year bash with Tollywood pals!" he added. Classic BJP IT cell playbook: spreading lies and manufacturing fake outrage.Some seem to echo their narrative just to dodge the ED.Enjoy your New Year bash with Tollywood pals! https://t.co/Qk22n2wq2u Manickam Tagore .B . (@manickamtagore) December 31, 2024 On Monday, the BJP launched a scathing attack on the Congress and alleged that Rahul Gandhi exploited" former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singhs death for his expedient politics" and flew to Vietnam to ring in the New Year while the country is mourning his demise. Reacting sharply, Manickam Tagore wrote in a post on X, When will the Sanghis stop this take diversion politics?" He alleged that the way Prime Minister Narendra Modi denied Dr Singh a place for cremation on the Yamuna banks and his ministers cornered his family was shameful". If Gandhi travels privately, why does it bother you?" he asked Malviya and said Get well in New year". Earlier on Monday, KTR urged the state government to persuade the Central government to establish a memorial for former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao in the national capital. This came after the Telangana Assembly passed a resolution seeking the Bharat Ratna for late former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. While welcoming & endorsing the Telangana Govt resolution to honour Late Prime Minister Sri Manmohan Singh Ji with Bharat Ratna in Assembly today, I have also proposed that Former PM & son of Telangana Sri PV Narasimha Rao Garu also be given due respect & recognition," Rao wrote in an X post. PV Garu is the only Prime Minister who does not have the honour of a memorial in National Capital, New Delhi." We demand that the state Govt come forward and move a resolution requesting the same in the state assembly & also hope that the Union Govt will accept the same," he added. While welcoming & endorsing the Telangana Govt resolution to honour Late Prime Minister Sri Manmohan Singh Ji with Bharat Ratna in Assembly today, I have also proposed that Former PM & son of Telangana Sri PV Narasimha Rao Garu also be given due respect & recognitionPV Garu is KTR (@KTRBRS) December 30, 2024 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Speaking to reporters, Rao said, Dr Manmohan Singh was a great economist and is respected across party lines. Our party supported the resolution passed in the Assembly today. We also appreciate the governments move to install a statue of Dr Singh here. However, we remind the Congress government in Telangana that the only Prime Minister who served India honourably and brought in significant reforms was PV Narasimha Rao." Unfortunately, he is the only late Prime Minister who does not have a memorial in the national capital. We have demanded that the state government also pass a resolution in the Assembly to honour PV Narasimha Rao and urge the Union government to set up a memorial for him." First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:57 IST In pics: advanced AI applications in parks across Shenzhen Xinhua) 10:07, December 31, 2024 People exercise with smart fitness devices at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) A visitor learns about a smart racing application at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) A visitor waits for a robot-made coffee at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) People exercise with smart fitness devices at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) A robot makes coffee at a park in Guangming District of Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on Dec. 27, 2024 shows a smart unmanned vehicle at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) A foreign tourist learns about a smart shower-room at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on Dec. 27, 2024 shows smart charging station at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) A cleaning robot is pictured at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 11, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on Dec. 28, 2024 shows a drone delivery service station at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This drone photo taken on Dec. 27, 2024 shows a drone conducting inspection work at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on Nov. 11, 2024 shows smart unmanned vehicles at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) People take an unmanned vehicle tour at Lianhuashan Park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 27, 2024. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on Dec. 27, 2024 shows a smart shower-room at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This drone photo taken on Dec. 27, 2024 shows a smart auto-inspection drone base at a park in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province. In various parks across Shenzhen, advanced artificial intelligence applications are ubiquitous, making technologies a part of daily life for the public. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Mumbai Hoarding Collapse: After 7 Months, Key Accused Arrested From Lucknow Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:58 IST The accused, identified as businessman Arshad Khan (42), was on the run for the last seven months after being called to record his statement in connection with the case, an official said As many as 17 persons were killed and more than 80 injured after the gigantic illegal hoarding crashed on a petrol pump in Ghatkopar area here amid gusty winds and rain on May 13, 2024. (Photo: PTI) Mumbai Police have arrested a key accused in the Ghatkopar hoarding collapse case from Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow, officials said on Tuesday. The accused, identified as businessman Arshad Khan (42), was on the run for the last seven months after being called to record his statement in connection with the case, an official said. related stories As many as 17 persons were killed and more than 80 injured after the gigantic illegal hoarding crashed on a petrol pump in Ghatkopar area here amid gusty winds and rain on May 13. During the investigation, it came to light that Ego Media Private Limited, which installed the hoarding, had transferred Rs 82 lakh to the bank accounts of some people linked to Arshad Khan, the official said. Khan was a business associate of the wife of former Government Railway Police (GRP) commissioner Quaiser Khalid, he said. After recording his initial statement, Khan did not turn up before the Mumbai Polices Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been conducting the probe into the case. The police were searching for Khan for the last couple of months, but he kept changing his location, the official said. Khan was finally apprehended from Lucknow on Sunday, he added. Khalid, who was the Government Railway Police commissioner when the hoarding was sanctioned on the GRP land, has been suspended for alleged lapses. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all There were several transactions from the bank accounts of Ego Media Private Limited to the accounts of people linked to Khan. Most of these transactions took place when Khalid was GRP commissioner, police earlier claimed. First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:58 IST Pune Pub Sends Condoms, ORS With New Year Party's Invites, Sparks Row Last Updated: December 30, 2024, 20:17 IST A row has erupted over a pub in Pune allegedly sending condoms and ORS to invitees of the New Year's eve bash, prompting police to record statements of invitees. A senior police officer confirmed receiving the complaint on Sunday. (Representative image) A row has erupted over a pub in Pune allegedly sending condoms and ORS to invitees of the New Years eve bash, prompting police to record statements of invitees. Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress lodged a complaint with Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar demanding strict action against the pubs management after the invite went viral with visuals of condoms and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution). related stories "We are not against pubs and nightlife. However, the marketing strategy to attract youngsters is against the traditions of Pune city. We demand strict action by police against the pub management," Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress member Akshay Jain stated on Monday. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A senior police officer confirmed receiving the complaint on Sunday. "We have recorded statements of several invitees attending the event," he said. First Published: December 30, 2024, 19:31 IST Watch: Depressed Man Goes On Slapping Spree In Meerut For 'Dopamine Rush', Arrested Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:28 IST Kapil Kumar, allegedly suffering from depression due to his father's death and mother's remarriage, was seen slapping pedestrians to experience "dopamine rush". Representative Image A 23-year-old unemployed graduate, reportedly suffering from depression following his fathers death and his mothers remarriage, went on a slapping spree in Uttar Pradeshs Meerut. The suspect, identified as Kapil Kumar, allegedly slapped several pedestrians, including a woman and a retired PCS officer, to experience dopamine rush" for the last couple of months, The Times of India reported citing police. related stories Several purported videos of Kumars slapping spree while riding his scooter were circulated on social media, culminating in his arrest on Sunday evening. Meerut City Vikram Singh told TOI that Kumar was identified in at least three of the slapping incidents. A CCTV footage had earlier surfaced online showing a man walking on the street when a youth on a two-wheeler suddenly slapped him. The man was identified as a retired PCS officer. Later a woman, who claimed to be a close kin of a local complaint against an unidentified man" for slapping her. #UttarPradesh: A 23-year-old unemployed graduate in #Meerut, suffering from depression after his fathers death and mothers remarriage, was arrested for slapping pedestrians, including a woman and a retired officer, seeking dopamine rush. pic.twitter.com/biIfUxrUog Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) December 31, 2024 He lost his father around five years ago and his mother remarried months later. He now stays with his mom and stepdad at Suraj Kund in Meerut. Kumar told cops he has been slapping people randomly while riding a scooter for dopamine rush and also encountered suicidal thoughts," Singh said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Ilam Singh, SHO of Nauchandi, said Kumar seemingly has a medical condition, causing him to seek dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that affects feelings of focus, motivation and happiness. However, it was unclear if he received any medication. A police officer said Kumar claimed he had a troubled upbringing as his friends used him as an object of ridicule and mockery for his timid behaviour. He told police that he was jobless, and nothing good was happening to him when he was at home and he was not disturbing anyone. So, one day, he thought that perhaps something good might happen by doing a few bad things," the officer said. Location : Meerut, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 14:28 IST Countdown to Midnight With These 5 Drinks For The Perfect Toast Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 02, 2025, 23:30 IST Whether you prefer a malty richness, a balanced bitterness, or a smooth, clean finish, theres a beer to match your celebration style. Winter weather is the right time to enjoy beer Raise a glass this New Years Eve with a celebration worthy of the occasion. Beer, in all its diverse styles and flavors, offers the perfect companion for your midnight toast. From bold and strong brews to crisp and refreshing lagers, each sip adds a layer of joy to the festivities. Whether you prefer a malty richness, a balanced bitterness, or a smooth, clean finish, theres a beer to match your celebration style. Toast to new beginnings, lasting memories, and a year filled with possibilities. Heres a roundup of five exceptional brews to elevate your midnight cheers. Budweiser related stories Ring in the New Year with the perfect toast featuring Budweiser, a medium-bodied, flavorful American-style lager thats as crisp as the midnight air. With an alcohol content of 5.0% by volume and just 145 calories per 12oz, its a light yet satisfying option for your celebration. Fat-free, with just 10.6g of carbs per serving, the brew is a product of barley malt, rice, hops, and water. This is why Budweiser is the best companion in the countdown. It brings a taste of the good old days and enhances every New Years Eve moment. Proost Celebrate the countdown with midnight in a homegrown strong beer. Its a highly crafted, bold, crisp lager meant to taste best on an Indian palette. At 6.8% ABV, a very good beer for the balance of hoppiness with a perfect smooth finish makes it good company for your New Years Eve events. Made perfectly, theres taste in every sip, and coming back for more. So, lift your glass to toast the good times ahead, and Proost will set the stage for a memorable celebration. Cheers to new beginnings or as they say, Proost!" Bee Young As the clock continues to tick towards midnight, raise a glass of Bee Young Crafted Strong Beer to toast in style. With its impressive 7.2% ABV and an IBU of 12-13, this bold brew combines all the richness of two-row barley, unique flavors coming from Columbus and Styrian Golding hops, along with the smoothness offered by 100% Sortex rice. Bee Young, brewed with water so pure it comes from the Bhakra Dam, and perfected through years of experience, is a true masterpiece in brewing art. Let the love for the craft and the bright notes of this strong beer take your toast to the new year. Cheers to new beginnings with Bee Young! Bira91 Ring in the New Year with Bira Boom Super Strong, a rich and malty Munich lager that promises to elevate your midnight toast. The drinkable Munich Helles style inspired this brew, which promises to deliver flavor-packed fun through a malt-forward profile combining two-row barley, caramel malts, and rice for a subtle sweetness and crisp body. The noble hops add a refreshing hint of bitterness. This beer balances bold flavors with an ABV below 8%, making it perfect for any memorable celebration, guaranteed to please all crowds. Cheers to new beginnings with Bira Boom! top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Carlsberg The Carlsberg Elephant Strong Beer is a great drink to celebrate the countdown to midnight with a refined toast. It has a mighty 7.2% ABV, brewed from the finest water, chosen barley malt, aromatic hops, and specialized yeast strains, resulting in a brew that cannot be matched for its strength and complexity. Its deep amber colour and robust aroma promise the rich malted barley flavor and strong hop bitterness that follow. Every sip leads to a punchy and lingering finish, therefore Carlsberg Elephant Strong Beer should be your bottle for welcoming the New Year with flair and elegance. Cheers to a bold beginning! First Published: December 31, 2024, 10:09 IST New Year 2025: Google Rings In 2025 With Dazzling Starry Doodle Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 01, 2025, 07:20 IST New Year 2025 Google Doodle: Google welcomed 2025 with a celestial-themed doodle featuring a radiant star in place of the O," symbolising new beginnings and the endless possibilities of the year. New Year 2025 Google Doodle: Google's 2025 Doodle features a sparkling star, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. (Screengrab: Google.com) New Year 2025 Google Doodle: Google ushered in the New Year with a sparkling and celestial-themed doodle. Against a serene blue backdrop, the iconic Google logo was reimagined, with the central O" replaced by a radiant star. This celestial substitution served as a beacon of hope and new beginnings, symbolising the fresh start that 2025 offered. ALSO READ: How To Reply To Happy New Year Wishes In 2025? related stories The doodles design was further enhanced by a constellation of smaller stars scattered across the background, creating a sense of wonder and excitement. Adding to the visual delight, a single star in the letter E" shimmered with a sparkling animation, capturing the essence of celebration and the anticipation of the year ahead. ALSO READ: Happy New Year 2025 Wishes: 100+ Best Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Status & Prayers To Welcome New Year This captivating doodle not only marked the arrival of the New Year but also served as a visual reminder of the endless possibilities and aspirations that 2025 held. It was a delightful and creative touch from Google, adding a touch of magic to the start of a new chapter. On the New Years eve, Google celebrated with a festive animated Doodle. The design features the word Google" in bold letters set against a dark sky, with the central O replaced by a ticking clock counting down to midnight. ALSO READ: New Years Eve: Google Doodle Marks Last Day Of 2024 With 2025 Countdown The New Year celebrations traditionally begin in the Pacific Islands and gradually progress westward, culminating in the American Samoa Islands, where the New Year arrives last. How the World Ringed in the New Year 2025 The world celebrated New Year 2025 with grand festivities, marking the dawn of a fresh chapter. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all From the vibrant fireworks over Sydney Harbour to the iconic ball drop in Times Square, global cities illuminated the night sky, ushering in the new year with joy and excitement. In countries like Japan and South Korea, cultural traditions like temple visits and family gatherings highlighted the significance of the occasion. Meanwhile, people across the globe embraced the spirit of renewal and hope, sharing wishes of peace, prosperity, and success for the year ahead. The celebrations were filled with optimism, symbolizing the endless possibilities of 2025. First Published: January 01, 2025, 00:47 IST Borrowing Friend's Lipstick For New Year's Party? Lesson From Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton 'Clash' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:07 IST In 2017, a woman filed a lawsuit against Sephora alleging that she contracted oral herpes (Human herpes virus 1 or HSV-1) from sampling lipstick. Prince Harry says sharing lipsticks is "an American thing", pretty common among girls raised in 1990s California. Kate Middleton reluctantly agreed to share her lip gloss with Meghan Markle. (Credit: Getty images) Are you hesitant about sharing your lipsticks or trying on one at a makeup counter? Princess Kate Middleton too was taken aback" when Meghan Markle asked for her gloss. Well, saying no is the best thing to do. Those going out for parties on New years eve are advised to carry their gloss. And in case you forget, just be the way you are. No-lipstick look is far better than contracting diseases like oral herpes. related stories In 2017, a woman filed a lawsuit against Sephora to the Los Angeles Superior Court alleging that she contracted oral herpes (Human herpes virus 1 or HSV-1) from sampling lipstick at their Hollywood and Highland store in October of 2015. Meg & Kate Clash of Styles Apparently, sometime in 2018, Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton were at an event together, and Meg forgot her gloss. Thinking that her soon-to-be sister-in-law would be happy to give her some, Meghan asked if she could borrow a tube. Prince Harry says sharing lipsticks is an American thing", pretty common among girls raised in 1990s California. The Duke of Sussex, in a passage from his tell-all memoir, Spare", says that Kate reluctantly agreed to Meg, who forgot hers. Kate, taken aback, went into her handbag and reluctantly pulled out a small tube. Meg squeezed some onto her finger and applied it to her lips. Kate grimaced. Small clash of styles, maybe," Prince Harry wrote. Lipstick Sharing And Diseases Experts say viruses and bacteria can linger on sticky surfaces like lipsticks, balms and ointments for hours to days, so its important to not gloss over the risks. A report in The New York Times quoted Dr Laleh Gharahbaghian, a clinical professor of emergency medicine at Stanford Medicine, as saying that some pathogens spread more easily than others, and they can last on surfaces for varying amounts of time. Type of Bacterium And Duration of Persistence (range) Acinetobacter spp. : 3 days to 5 months Bordetella pertussis: 3 5 days Campylobacter jejuni: up to 6 days Clostridium difficile (spores): 5 months Chlamydia pneumoniae, C. trachomatis: 30 hours Chlamydia psittaci: 15 days Corynebacterium diphtheriae: 7 days 6 months Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis: 18 days Escherichia coli: 1.5 hours 16 months Enterococcus spp. including VRE and VSE: 5 days 4 months Haemophilus influenzae: 12 days Helicobacter pylori: 90 minutes Klebsiella spp. : 2 hours to > 30 months Listeria spp. : 1 day months Mycobacterium bovis: > 2 months Mycobacterium tuberculosis: 1 day 4 months Neisseria gonorrhoeae: 1 3 days Proteus vulgaris: 1 2 days Pseudomonas aeruginosa: 6 hours 16 months; on dry floor: 5 weeks Salmonella typhi: 6 hours 4 weeks Salmonella typhimurium: 10 days 4.2 years Salmonella spp. : 1 day Serratia marcescens: 3 days 2 months; on dry floor: 5 weeks Shigella spp. : 2 days 5 months Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA: 7 days 7 months Streptococcus pneumoniae: 1 20 days Streptococcus pyogenes: 3 days 6.5 months Vibrio cholerae: 1 7 days Explaining staph infections, Dr A Yasmine Kirkorian, the chief of dermatology at Childrens National Hospital in Washington, DC, was quoted as saying staphylococcus bacteria can cause swollen, painful, fluid-filled sores; the pus that leaks out can be contagious. Besides bacteria, there are viruses. Reports suggest that respiratory viruses (e.g., coronavirus, coxsackie virus, influenza virus, or rhinovirus) can survive for a few days on inanimate objects and gastrointestinal viruses (e.g., astrovirus, HAV, polio virus and rotavirus) for two months. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Dr Tina Bhutani, a dermatologist at the University of California, San Francisco, was quoted by NYT: There is a larger risk of spreading the herpes simplex virus, which can cause cold sores. People with oral herpes are most contagious when they have active cold sores so if you borrow lip balm from a friend who has the telltale fluid-filled blister, you run the risk of also contracting herpes." People can spread herpes even when they dont have a flare-up, though the risk is lower, she added. Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: December 31, 2024, 13:05 IST New Year's Eve 2024: Which Country Celebrates New Year First And Whos Last? Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 11:49 IST New Year's Eve 2024: Christmas Island (Kiritimati) in Kiribati will be the first to welcome 2025, while Baker and Howland Islands, southwest of Hawaii, will be the last. New Year's Eve 2024: Australia is one of the first countries to ring in the New Year. (Image: Shutterstock) New Years Eve 2024: As the clock ticks closer to midnight on December 31, the world prepares to welcome the new year with utmost joy and thrill. Every year, people celebrate the new year at different times due to varying time zones. While we may all share in the excitement of ringing in a new year, the moment arrives at different times depending on where you are. Heres how the world will ring in 2025. ALSO READ: Festivals And Bank Holidays Calendar 2025: Complete List Of Indian Festivals And Public Holidays related stories The first to enter the new year will be Christmas Island (Kiritimati Island) in the Republic of Kiribati, a small island. Just a short while later, the Chatham Islands of New Zealand will ring in the new year. Which Country Will Celebrate The New Year 2025 First? The countrys Auckland and Wellington cities will next in line to join the global wave of festivities along with Tonga and Samoa. Next, the Pacific Islands of Fiji will celebrate the arrival of 2025. Meanwhile, Australia wont be far behind as cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra light up with fireworks to mark the new beginnings. The celebration then spreads to Australian cities like Adelaide, Broken Hill and Ceduna. ALSO READ: Year Ender 2024: Festival Date Confusion In India What Happened And What To Expect In 2025? Queensland and Northern Australia ring in the New Year later. As we travel further, Japan, South Korea and North Korea will join the festivities with their own unique celebrations. Finally, Western Australia will also welcome the New Year, marking the final step as the island continent fully ushers in 2025. China, the Philippines and Singapore are next where people will light up the streets with joy and fun to welcome 2025. Bangladesh and Nepal follow before countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar and Cocos Islands mark their festivities. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After Nepal, India and Sri Lanka welcome the new year with open arms. The last places to experience the arrival of 2025 will be the uninhabited islands of Baker Island and Howland Island, located southwest of Hawaii. These remote islands will be the final spots on the globe to greet the new year. First Published: December 31, 2024, 11:45 IST Radhika Merchant's Gold Gown With Mangalsutra Bracelet Is The Go-To For Every Modern Bahu Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 20:20 IST Radhika Merchant slayed in a gold fringe detail dress for a party in Jamnagar. What stole the show, once again, was her mangalsutra which she had styled on her wrist as a bracelet. Radhika Merchant opted for a gold fringe gown by Rimzim Dadu. Radhika Merchant, the newest Ambani daughter-in-law, is known for her stunning fashion choices. Whether it is going minimalistic or for her grand wedding festivities, Radhika has always managed to turn heads, dominating the fashion circles throughout 2024. Having already impressed everyone with her unique and stylish outfits during her pre-wedding and wedding functions, Radhika is now redefining her wardrobe by giving a unique twist to her traditional mangalsutra. Days after her fashion became a hot topic when he teamed a black floral gown with her mangalsutra as a bracelet, Radhika did it once again, thus time for the Christmas celebrations. Radhika Merchant recently joined her family and friends for the Ambanis Christmas celebrations where she donned a custom gold fringe gown from the shelves of Rimzim Dadu. The gown featured metallic cords, that created a flawless silhouette, showcasing the designers signature appeal while also giving her a stunning look. It had sleeveless designs followed by a deep neckline which added a touch of glamour, making it an unforgettable choice for the evening look. related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rimzim Dadu (@rimzimdaduofficial) Radhika complemented the look with a stylish maroon sweater to beat the chill. The deep hue accentuated the golden tones and offered a cosy yet chic look. She balanced out her accessories with the outfit by adding a pair of diamond earrings, a couple of rings, and her mangalsutra uniquely wrapped around her wrist. For the makeup, she kept it flawless as usual with a perfect base with soft blush, shimmery eyes, long lashes, and nude lips, making it sophisticated and glamourous. It is worth mentioning that Radhika Merchant has been seen constantly staying true to her traditional style. During her appearance at the NMACC Arts Cafe launch in Mumbai, she flaunted a brand-new look with all eyes set on her unusual accessory. Making a striking appearance alongside the rest of the family, Radhika is seen in a stunning dress from Diors Spring/Summer 2023 collection. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rhea Kapoor (@rheakapoor) Her ensemble featured a tea-length dress with floral embroidery on sleek black fabric. She accessorised the look with minimal earrings and rings and wrapped her mangalsutra as a bracelet. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 20:20 IST Year Ender 2024: Festival Date Confusion In India What Happened And What To Expect In 2025? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 09:13 IST Year Ender 2024: Be it Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali or Eid, festival dates in India caused confusion in 2024 due to lunar and regional variations. Here's what happened and what to expect in 2025. Year Ender 2024: Amidst the festival date confusion, the celebrations brought communities together, reflecting the beauty of tradition and diversity. (Image: Shutterstock) Year Ender 2024: In a country as diverse as India, where festivals are an integral part of daily life, one might expect some confusion when it comes to the exact dates of celebrations. 2024 proved to be a year where several key festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra and Eid saw discrepancies in their dates. The reason? related stories It all boils down to the intricacies of the Indian calendar systems, which are largely lunar or lunisolar, and the regional variations in how these festivals are observed. In this year-end special, we take a closer look at the festival date confusion that marked 2024, explain why it happens, and provide a sneak peek into what to expect in 2025. DIWALI (OCTOBER 31 OR NOVEMBER 1, 2024) One of the biggest festival date confusions in 2024 was Diwali, Indias grandest festival, celebrated with much fanfare and fervour across the country. For many, the timing of Diwali was a cause for confusion this year, as it was celebrated on two different dates: October 31 and November 1. Why The Confusion? Diwali is celebrated on the 15th day of the month of Kartika in the Hindu lunar calendar. The festivals main day is determined by the new moon (Amavasya), and its exact timing depends on how the moons phases align in a given year. In 2024, the new moon fell on October 31 for some regions, while others observed it on November 1. This discrepancy arose because the lunar calendar varies slightly based on time zone differences, and different regions in India use different Panchangs (astrological calendars), which can lead to a one-day difference in the date. In North India, Diwali was widely celebrated on November 1, while in parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, it was observed on October 31. Looking Ahead To 2025 In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, which aligns with the new moon on that date. The timing of the new moon on October 20 makes it a significant and unified celebration across India. HOLI (MARCH 24 OR MARCH 25, 2024) Holi, the festival of colours, is traditionally celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Phalguna month in the Hindu calendar. While the date generally falls in March, the actual date can vary depending on local lunar sightings and regional customs. In 2024, Holi was celebrated on March 25. This was the second day of Holi festivities and was celebrated across most regions of India, marking the joyous occasion of playing with colours and spreading happiness. Why The Confusion? The confusion arose due to the lunar calendar and the timing of the full moon (Purnima). The full moon of Phalguna began on the morning of March 24, 2024, at 9:54 AM and concluded on March 25, 2024, at 12:29 PM. As per customs, Holika Dahan was observed on the night of the full moon, which fell on March 24, but the auspicious time for the bonfire happened between 11:13 PM and 12:27 AM (on March 25). Looking Ahead To 2025 In 2025, Holi will be celebrated on March 14, with the full moon falling on this day. This ensures a unified celebration across India, as Holi is traditionally celebrated on the full moon of Phalguna. GANESH CHATURTHI (SEPTEMBER 6 OR SEPTEMBER 7, 2024) Ganesh Chaturthi, the festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, was celebrated on September 7, 2024. Why The Confusion? Ganesh Chaturthi is observed on the 4th day (Chaturthi) of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadrapada. As with other lunar festivals, the exact date depends on the moons position, and a slight variation can lead to different celebration days. In 2024, the Chaturthi tithi began on September 6 and lasted until September 7. However, according to Drik Panchang and the alignment of the moon, Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrate on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Looking Ahead To 2025 In 2025, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on August 27, with the Chaturthi tithi aligning perfectly for a wider celebration on this day. DUSSEHRA (OCTOBER 12 OR OCTOBER 13, 2024) Dussehra (Vijayadashami), the festival marking the victory of good over evil, was surrounded by confusion in 2024 regarding the exact date. The confusion stemmed from the Dashami tithi, which lasted for two days, leading to questions about whether Dussehra would be celebrated on October 12 or October 13. Why The Confusion? Dussehra was traditionally observed on the 10th day (Dashami) of the Ashwin month in the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2024, the Dashami tithi spanned two dates, causing regional variation in the celebration. According to Drik Panchang, the most widely observed day for Vijayadashami was on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Looking Ahead To 2025 In 2025, Dussehra (Vijayadashami) will be celebrated on October 2, 2025, marking the Dashami tithi on that day. EID AL-FITR (APRIL 10 OR APRIL 11, 2024) The celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, also experienced a date discrepancy in 2024. Why The Confusion? Eid is celebrated based on the Islamic lunar calendar, specifically on the 1st of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. However, the Islamic calendar doesnt align with the solar Gregorian calendar, and the start of Shawwal depends on the sighting of the new moon. As the moons visibility can vary by location, Eid was observed on different dates in different regions. In 2024, Eid al-Fitr was celebrated on April 10 in North India, while in South India and parts of West Bengal, it was observed a day later, on April 11. Looking Ahead To 2025 In 2025, Eid al-Fitr will fall on March 30 or March 31, but as always, the exact date may vary based on moon sightings in different regions of India. The celebration will depend on local observations of the Shawwal moon. The root of festival date confusion lies in the nature of the lunar calendar and regional differences in how festivals are celebrated: LUNAR CALENDAR Many Hindu festivals, as well as Eid and Diwali, are based on the lunar or lunisolar calendar, where the dates shift according to the phases of the moon. Unlike the solar calendar used globally (the Gregorian calendar), the lunar calendar is more fluid, with slight variations in dates based on moon sightings. REGIONAL VARIATIONS India is a country of diverse cultures, and different regions follow their own versions of the Panchang (Hindu calendar) or may observe festivals according to local customs. For example, Makar Sankranti is celebrated on January 14 in most parts of India, but in Tamil Nadu, its celebrated as Pongal around the same time, depending on the solar transition. ASTROLOGICAL FACTORS Many festivals, like Navratri and Ganesh Chaturthi, depend on tithis (specific lunar days) and the position of celestial bodies. Astrologers and priests calculate these dates based on complex astronomical calculations, which can vary slightly. A YEAR OF CONFUSION, BUT ALSO OF CONNECTION Despite the confusion over dates, festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Navratri bring communities together. They represent a vibrant tapestry of culture, tradition, and spirituality that transcends the boundaries of time and place. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As we look to 2025, we can expect more of the same some date discrepancies, but also a deeper understanding of why these differences exist and how they enrich our cultural heritage. May the new year bring more clarity, more joy, and, of course, more celebrationsno matter when they fall! First Published: December 31, 2024, 09:05 IST Doordarshan To Screen Manthan As A Tribute To Legendary Director Shyam Benegal | When To Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 18:33 IST The 1976 classic, restored by the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) for its premiere at the Cannes Classic section earlier this year, will air on Doordarshan. Shyam Benegal died on December 23. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Doordarshan announced it will welcome the new year with a special screening of the 4K restored version of Shyam Benegals Manthan as a tribute to the legendary filmmaker, who passed away on December 23 at the age of 90 due to chronic kidney disease. The 1976 classic, restored by the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) for its premiere at the Cannes Classic section earlier this year, will air on Doordarshan on January 1, 2025, at 8 p.m. FHF shared the update on its official X page, acknowledging support from the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (Amul) for the restoration. related stories Shyam Benegals Manthan (1976) is a classic inspired by Dr. Verghese Kuriens White Revolution, which transformed India into a global milk leader. The film follows a young veterinary doctor, played by Girish Karnad, who helps rural farmers fight oppressive systems to establish a milk cooperative. Released 48 years ago, the film, called Churning in English, was funded by 5 lakh Gujarat farmers who each gave Rs 2. Its opening credits read, 500,000 Farmers of Gujarat present." The story follows a young vet (Girish Karnad) fighting against challenges to set up a milk cooperative that empowers rural farmers. Shyam Benegal, pioneer of Indian parallel cinema, passed away at the age of 90 on December 23, 2024. The death of the legendary filmmaker sent shockwaves across the nation, and tributes poured in from all corners. He was laid to rest on December 24 with full state honours. Today, a memorial service was held in Mumbai to celebrate the life of Shyam Benegal. It was attended by Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Javed Akhtar, Urmila Matondkar and others. Shabana Azmi, who made her film debut in 1974 with Shyam Benegals directorial debut film Ankur arrived for his memorial service in Mumbai. She was seen paying her last respects. Naseeruddin Shah also attended the memorial service of Shyam Benegal, his first director. Javed Akhtar, Urmila Matondkar, and many others were also present. Shyam Benegals career spanned over five decades, cementing his position as a pioneering filmmaker in Indian cinema. He made his debut in the film industry with the 1974 movie Ankur. His subsequent films, such as Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), and Bhumika (1977), solidified his reputation as a masterful director, earning him numerous national and international accolades. First Published: December 31, 2024, 18:33 IST Rebel Wilson And Ramona Agruma Exchange Vows In The Presence Of Family: Just Felt Right Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:24 IST Rebel Wilson confirmed her relationship with Ramona Agruma in 2022. Congratulations, Rebel Wilson. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Rebel Wilson and her partner Ramona Agruma are officially married. In a recent post shared by the Pitch Perfect actress on Instagram, she revealed that the two have legally tied the knot in her hometown, Sydney, Australia. This comes nearly three months after they exchanged vows in an intimate, lavish affair that was organised in Sardinia, Italy. Rebels post opened to a few adorable pictures of the two snuggling up to each other while standing in front of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. For the special occasion, the Isnt It Romantic actress chose a beautiful, peach-coloured off-the-shoulder ruffled dress, whereas her now-wife wore an off-white floral-print dress. related stories Following the happy pictures of the couple, the two were seen posing with the actress 94-year-old grandmother. In the last two photos, Rebel and Ramona beamed with happiness as they posed with their loved ones against the beautiful backdrop of the bridge and the river. In the caption, The Hustle actress wrote, My sister Liberty officiated our legal wedding in Sydney! It meant my 94-year-old grandmother Gar could come, which was very special to us to have her included, and just felt right to do it in my hometown at this glorious time of the year!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson) Immediately after Rebel dropped the pictures, her co-stars and other dear ones started sending their best wishes to the couple. Adam Devine said, So happy for you, Rebs!" whereas Elizabeth Banks wrote, Wo,w gorgeous!" Alexis Knapp penned, Luminous!! Happiness!" Lah Purcell said, Congratulations to you both!!! How beautiful to be able to share with ya, Gran!!! Special! All the best for the new year!" On the other hand, Rebels wife, Ramona Agruma, also shared a set of pictures from their special day on Instagram. In the caption, she wrote, Married officially in Australia to my Australian princess Rebel Wilson." Her carousel featured two pictures of the couple followed by a group photo with their loved ones. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ramona Agruma (@ramonaagruma) In 2022, Rebel came out on social media and during the same time, she also confirmed her relationship with Ramona, who is a fashion and jewellery designer. On Valentines Day 2023, the Senior Year actress popped the question to her partner in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in California. A year and a half later, the two said I Do to each other at a lavish event by the seaside at the Hotel Cala di Volpe in Sardinia, Italy. Notably, Rebel and Ramona had a baby girl, Royce Lilly, through a surrogate in November 2022. First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:24 IST Opinion | Pakistans Year Of Explosions: 2024 Sets Stage For A Violent 2025 Written By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 08:30 IST The surge in attacks, the growing strength of groups like the TTP and BLA, and the relentless sectarian violence have paved the way for a year of even bigger, louder, and more destructive blasts A Pakistani paramilitary soldier, left, and Taliban fighters stand guard on their respective sides at a border crossing point between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Khyber district, Pakistan. (AP Photo/File) The year 2024 has truly lived up to its description as a blast" for Pakistan. This year has been marked by intensifying violence and growing instability. A sharp rise in insurgent attacks, sectarian clashes, and open hostilities from neighbouring Afghanistan has plunged the country into a deepening security crisis. With nearly 900 violent insurgent incidents reported in 2024, compared to 645 in 2023, Pakistan has witnessed a significant escalation in insurgent activities and violent extremism. These mounting challenges stem not only from internal insurgencies but also from external pressures, with skirmishes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border further inflaming an already volatile situation. related stories As the year draws to a close, Pakistan faces the ominous prospect of an even more explosive 2025. TTPs Expansion And Unification Of Militant Forces One of the most concerning developments in 2024 has been the significant expansion of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has emerged as a far stronger and more unified force. The TTP, long a dominant player in the insurgent landscape, has successfully consolidated over 40 smaller militant groups operating in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) region. Once fractured and fragmented, these groups have now united under the TTP banner, greatly enhancing the groups operational capabilities and reach. This merger has transformed the TTP into a much more formidable adversary for Pakistans security forces, inflicting heavy losses on the security establishment and carrying out deadly attacks with impunity. The unification of these militant factions has enabled the TTP to execute coordinated attacks across KP and other regions with increased lethality. This consolidation has granted the group access to greater resources, manpower, and operational expertise, further complicating Pakistans efforts to restore stability. The TTPs success in forging alliances with other militant factions underscores the growing appeal of its cause and the mounting challenges Pakistan faces in countering such a unified insurgent front. Afghan Talibans Hostilities And Border Skirmishes In addition to dealing with insurgent groups within its borders, Pakistan is also grappling with open hostilities from its neighbour, Afghanistan. Since the Talibans return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, relations between the Afghan Taliban and Pakistan have grown increasingly strained, particularly along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. In 2024, skirmishes and border clashes between Pakistani security forces and Afghan Taliban fighters have intensified, further destabilising the region. The porous border, commonly referred to as the Durand Line, spans over 2,600 kilometres and has long been a contentious issue between the two nations, with both sides accusing each other of harbouring insurgents operating within their respective territories. This contention has worsened in 2024, with the Afghan Talibans growing hostility towards Pakistan becoming increasingly apparent. These clashes have not only heightened the already fragile security situation in Pakistans border regions but have also hindered efforts to combat cross-border militant activities, particularly those carried out by the TTP. The Afghan Talibans support for the TTP has been a significant factor in the latters resurgence. With logistical and operational backing from Afghan Taliban fighters, the TTP has executed more sophisticated attacks against Pakistani targets. The escalating hostility between the two nations, coupled with Pakistans retaliatory air strikes inside Afghanistan on alleged TTP camps, has further complicated the already tense relationship. This dynamic has made it even more challenging for Pakistan to secure its western front and safeguard its national security. The BLA And TTP: A Tactical Alliance In another significant development, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the TTP have formed a tacit understanding, collaborating on their respective insurgent activities. While the BLA primarily seeks independence for Balochistan, and the TTP aims to expel Pakistans military presence from tribal areas, both groups share a common adversary in the Pakistani state. This shared objective has fostered a growing tactical alliance between the two organisations. The TTP has played a pivotal role in helping the BLA evolve into a more organised and deadly insurgent group. Although the BLA had already been responsible for high-profile attacks, including those targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan, the tactical expertise and operational support it has received from the TTP in 2024 have significantly enhanced its effectiveness. The TTP has provided the BLA with training, operational guidance, and logistical assistance, enabling it to carry out more complex and coordinated attacks. This collaboration between two major insurgent groups has further compounded Pakistans security challenges, with the BLAs attacks in Balochistan becoming increasingly sophisticated and lethal. The TTPs support for the BLA has further deepened the ties between separatist and Islamist insurgent movements, complicating Pakistans efforts to address the violence from a purely regional or ideological standpoint. The fusion of these two insurgent factions has created a far more potent threat, not only to Pakistans national security but also to its relations with China. The growing insecurity has significantly strained Sino-Pak relations, as the Chinese are increasingly pressurising Pakistan to set up its own security grid to protect their nationals and investments in the much-touted CPEC project. Sectarian Violence And Continued Strife In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Apart from organised insurgencies, Pakistan has also been grappling with a sharp rise in sectarian violence, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In late November 2024, gunmen attacked a convoy of Shia passengers in Kurram district, killing 52 people. This attack was part of a broader pattern of sectarian violence that has plagued Pakistan, with nearly 200 people killed and more than 250 wounded in attacks targeting both Shia and Sunni communities. The violence has further polarised Pakistans religious landscape, with extremist groups fuelling religious divisions for their own agendas. The increase in sectarian clashes has made it even more difficult for Pakistan to maintain control over its provinces, especially those with large sectarian populations. As the country faces mounting pressures from both internal and external sources, the risk of further escalations in sectarian violence remains high, complicating the already fragile security situation. The Deadliest Months: October And November The months of October and November proved particularly deadly for Pakistan, with more than 455 people killed and over 300 injured in violent attacks. These months saw a peak in both insurgent violence and sectarian clashes, with the TTP, BLA, and other militant groups launching devastating strikes across the country. The scale of the violence during these two months underscores the growing intensity of Pakistans security challenges and highlights the urgent need for a more comprehensive and coordinated response from the government. Looking Ahead: A Tough Road Ahead For Pakistan As we stand on the precipice of 2025, Pakistan appears poised to enter a new year of even greater explosions. If 2024 is any indication, the coming year is set to bring even more chaos, violence, and insurgency to an already beleaguered country. The surge in attacks, the growing strength of groups like the TTP and BLA, and the relentless sectarian violence have paved the way for a year of even bigger, louder, and more destructive blasts. If 2024 was a rollercoaster of violence, 2025 seems poised to bring the worst. As Pakistan enters 2025, the outlook is troubling. The unification of the TTP with over 40 militant groups, its growing tactical alliance with the BLA, and the escalating skirmishes with the Afghan Taliban along the border all signal a year of heightened instability. The situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan remains precarious, and the increasing frequency of sectarian violence adds another layer of complexity to the security challenges Pakistan faces. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Pakistani government has made half-hearted efforts to address these challenges, but the persistent rise in attacks and the increasing coordination between insurgent groups suggest that the road to stability will be long and difficult. As Pakistan looks towards 2025, the country is likely to face even greater difficulties in curbing the growing insurgencies, managing sectarian tensions, and securing its borders from hostile external forces. The year ahead will almost certainly bring more challenges, making it clear that Pakistans security situation is set to worsen. Raja Muneeb is an independent journalist and a columnist, a geopolitical and a Nat Sec analyst. He tweets @rajamuneeb. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: December 31, 2024, 08:30 IST Opinion | The Ultimate 2024 Reading List: Fiction, Non-Fiction, And Childrens Books Written By : , & News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 15:00 IST From historical analysis to space adventures and insightful memoirs, discover diverse perspectives and captivating stories Top books to read in 2024. (Representative image) Top Non-Fiction Reads for Author, Lawyer, and TV Debater Anu Lall For 2024 Author, TV debater, and lawyer Anu Lall, who left an illustrious career in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors, is the author of four books and holds multiple certifications in mind-body wellness disciplines. related stories Her top picks: Bangladesh: The Next Afghanistan by Hiranmay Karlekar Written 25 years ago, this book predicts the rise of fundamentalism in Bangladesh. Coming events cast their shadows before." Future events can often be predicted by the signs, clues, and events that precede them. What will happen to India 25 years from now needs to be thought through. Waiting for Shiva by Vikram Sampath This book does an excellent job of balancing historical facts with the warmth of faith. I simply loved how effortlessly it flows exactly how history should be taught. Overdiagnosed: Making People Sick in Pursuit of Health by Dr Gilbert Welch A brilliantly researched book, arguing against unnecessary drugs and surgeries, which have led to an epidemic of overdiagnosis. Hinduism and Nature by Nandita Krishna I loved how the author explores the classical and tribal traditions of India, delving into Indian forests, trees, and rivers, set against the backdrop of the Upanishads, Vedas, and Smritis. In a world searching for ecological balance, ancient wisdom may provide the answer. Merging with Siva: Hinduism and Contemporary Metaphysics by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami This book presents 365 short readings, bringing spirituality into action in daily life. I loved the direct style of writing no verbosity or unnecessary preaching. Top Fiction Reads For Author And Former UN Official Rajesh Talwar For 2024 Rajesh Talwar is a prolific author of 41 books across multiple genres. His next book is titled The Mahatmas Manifesto: A Critique of Hind Swaraj to be published by Om Books International in January 2025. His top picks: Orbital, by Samantha Harvey, Penguin Random House, 2024 This slim novel, just 136 pages in length, is a masterclass in unique storytelling. Many authors ponder over a unique setting before crafting a novel. More than a decade ago, Yann Martel took all of us by surprise when he wrote Life of Pi, featuring a tiger stranded on a boat with the narrator. Orbital, with its setting on the International Space Station, has a similarly unique setting and the tale told is extremely visual and engaging. Its not easy to make readers believe that they are on the space station but its a feat that Harvey achieves and how! The Vegetarian, by Han Kang, Granta Publications, 2024 Following her receipt of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2024, Han Kang has gained a much wider readership. The Vegetarian is a stunning novel described by The Guardian as an extraordinary experience." The opening line of the novel is reminiscent of The Outsider by Albert Camus and much like that classic, this tale too is full of surprises. Hot Mess: Diary of a Wimpy Kid, by Jeff Kinney, Puffin, 2024 There is something so special about Jeff Kinneys style of humour that his books often appeal to adults as well as children. Hot Mess, the 19th book in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, is laced with lots of gentle humour. The tale this time begins around Grandmas secret recipe and is focused on food, eating and vacations. In an interview, Jeff Kinney spoke of how he is especially proud of the storytelling element in this one. Personally, Ive always felt that the Wimpy Kid is much like an Indian character. It would be great to have one of our childrens authors attempt something similar. Maria, Just Maria, by Sandhya Mary, Harper Perennial (India), 2024 This book exemplifies the immense talent in Indian fiction written in languages other than English. Kudos to the writer for writing such an engaging work and to the translator as well. There is great simplicity in this work, written originally in Malayalam. A certain charm in the writing radiates throughout and together with the brilliant characterisations, it tempts the reader to pick it up and read it a second time round. The Restaurant of Lost Recipes, by Hisashi Kashiwai, Mantle, UK, 2024 Do you remember how a particular person, perhaps a grandmother, made a particular dish which you enjoyed and now you cant have it anymore because she is no longer around? Now imagine if you had an expert that could help you recreate the exact, same dish. Well, the Food Detectives can help you recreate that dish. A unique, brilliant concept, this unusual book deserves its success. Most of us value good company and delicious food and the stories here celebrate their power. Top Reads For Author And Publishing Professional Lipika Bhushan For 2024 Lipika Bhushan is the founder of MarketMyBook and hosts The Indic Pen podcast. She has her roots in Uniyal Gaon, Uttarakhand. Her top picks: Middle of Diamond India (Penguin India) by Shashank Mani Tripathi is a definitive book that challenges CK Prahalads Bottom of the Pyramid Theory and suggests that the economic, social and political centre of India needs to shift to the tier 2 and tier 3 cities and towns. It offers a fascinating insight into how the contribution to Bharats growth over the next 25 years will come from the women and youth of smaller towns and cities. With inspiring life stories from the 15-day Jagriti Yatra, this book is a must-read for all who would like to be part of Bharats growth stories. Bharat Rising: Dharma, Democracy and Diplomacy by Utpal Kumar chronicles Indias new historical awakening as it talks about why new India is no longer apologetic about its civilisational past. Its an earnest exploration, providing readers with a well-researched argument and a deeper understanding of Bharats contemporary narrative. Indias New Right: Powering the Current Wave of Nationalism and Civilisational Revival by Abhijit Majumdar is a thought-provoking exploration of Indias evolving political and cultural identity. The book examines the rise of nationalism, driven by historical reclamation and civilisational pride, while critiquing traditional political narratives driven by the Left. It provides a compelling analysis of the ideological shift shaping Indias policies and global stance. It also makes you wonder if the world is permanently divided into the Right and the Left with no room for Centrists. Tipu Sultan: The Saga of Mysore Interregnum (1760 1799) by Vikram Sampath is yet another seminal work by the historian presenting a meticulously researched account of Tipu Sultans complex legacy through his military strategies, administrative reforms, and social report card in the context of 18th century India. Sampath offers nuanced perspectives on Tipu as a leader and a controversial figure. It is an important contribution to history which is largely centred around Delhi. Knife by Salman Rushdie is a poignant and introspective memoir that delves into his personal and creative life after the traumatic 2019 attack on him. The book captures his resilience, exploring themes of freedom of expression, mortality, and the power of storytelling. Rushdies prose is as evocative as ever, blending vulnerability with sharp wit. The memoir offers profound insights into the struggles of an artist confronting violence and censorship. It is a moving testament to the enduring spirit of a writer who refuses to be silenced. Top Childrens Book Picks Of 2024 Reshma K. Barshikar is an award-winning writer, the author of The Hidden Children series, and the founder of The Hidden Imagination Writers Academy. Her top picks: My favourite picture book would have to be Animal Albums from A to Z by Cece Bellwhats not to love? Its an ode to vinyl and album covers, complete with its own audio track. A treat for music-crazy parents who spend as much time with picture books as their children. For 68-year-olds, Id recommend Into the Uncut Grass by Trevor Noaha lovely modern fable about getting lost and finding ones way home, written by a key thought leader of our times. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all For 10 and above, my pick is A Forest of a Thousand Eyes by Frances Hardinge. Fantastical and richly written, its beautifully illustrated by the genius Emily Gravett. The story follows a girl who must protect her home from an insidious forestan intriguing exploration of nature in all its thrilling glory. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: December 31, 2024, 15:00 IST Opinion | Why 2024 Was The Year Of A Keertan Counter Movement Written By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:29 IST 2024 should be remembered as the year when keertan - the singing of the name of the divine in its diverse avatars - reinstated itself as a propellant of inevitable reckoning in religious, political, cultural and social dynamics of Sanatan dharma. Devotees play instruments during the 'Peshwai' procession of 'Shri Panch Agni Akhara', which marks the arrival of 'sadhus' and other members of an 'akhara' or sect for the annual 'Maha Kumbh Mela', in Prayagraj, on December 26, 2024. (PTI Photo) Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare, Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare" the sound of the mahamantra" floats on the Ganga. As devotees shiver their way to the iconic bridge Ram Jhoola during a rain-drenched, chilly, December morning in Rishikesh, and 2024 draws to a close, the rendition of the mantra is exalted by those who join its singing. Sown by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the bhakti movement and Sanatan consciousness in the 15th century, keertan draws me to a ghat-side temple near Gita Bhawan. A peep into the temple reveals the indestructible identity of the custodians of the mantra the sadhus ignorant of time, immersed in the conjunction worldly and cosmic, mesmerised by cyclical dissemination of the 16 words in the Mahamantra and the playing of brass cymbals. The keertan launches a warming counter-movement to the gliding cold winds. It promptly reminds one of the singularity of the Harinam Sangkeertan the enduring carrier of the Mahamantra which has resisted several political and cultural ordeals heaved at it over six centuries. related stories Counter-movement thats the word manifesting in 2024. If a direct and eloquent reflection of events represents pivotal turning points in civilisational destiny, 2024 should be remembered as the year when keertan the singing of the name of the divine in its diverse avatars reinstated itself as a propellant of inevitable reckoning in religious, political, cultural and social dynamics of Sanatan dharma. Keertan created a political, social and cultural counter-movement by restoring the broken, strengthening the coerced, reclaiming the civilsational, and reversing the lost-defeated-relinquished. In January 2024, Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and its Pran Pratishtha rituals arose as the dharmic nucleus in a series of diverse determinants uplifting dharmas celebration through keertan. In the circuitous and impassioned rejoicing of Harninam (the name of Hari, the divine) between Ayodhya dham in Uttar Pradesh, Janakpuri Dham in Nepal, Jagannathpuri in Odisha, and Gaya in Bihar born out of Ayodhyas cultural transcendence in January 2024, Ayodhya became the focal point in keertan offerings. The resulting upsurge of keertan mandlis and Sangkeertan processions in urban India, their ostentatious jubilation on social media led by devotees of Ram, Krishna, Jagannatha, Vitthal, among other deities, is led by men largely. Next: the wondrous, silently-built and efficacious participation of keertanis and Warkaris in constructing BJPs landslide victory in Maharashtra unveiled the redefining of keertans role in politics. Keertan sprang as a medium to tackle new and newer challenges staring at Hindu dominance in parts and sustenance in parts. In 2024, painfully significant was the courageous dissemination of dharmic resistance for survival of Sanatan and Sanatanis catapulted by former ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari in Bangladesh. Its essence is intensified by the fact that nearly half a century after the celebration of the Mahamantra in the United States of America became the initiation point for a global assemblage of bhaktas, the voice of resistance in Bangladesh emerged from the same cultural soil that gave birth to the religious sentiment, cultural thrust galvanising keertan, and spiritual expositions and explorations of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. When Chaitanya Mahaprabhu launched and propagated the tradition, taking keertan to the villages and streets in this great civilisation, he was perhaps unaware that the absence of keertan singing, centuries later, would serve as an indicator to the survival and destiny of Sanatan and Sanatanis in certain political landscapes. Where Sanatanis thrive, the sound of keertan and kartal will somehow, anyhow, express the dogged determination for dharm. Keertan itself is the evidence of Sanatans continuity. The evolution of the ISKCON movement in the US, aspects related to the participation of Indian devotees, its Indianisation, happened alongside keertans own continuation and cultural endurance in its civilisational home, the Jagannath Mandir, other temples of Bharat, temple courtyards, streets and homes. That said, one cannot dismiss the uncanny similarity marking ISKCONs journey in two distanced realms. First as a counter-movement in the era of Vietnam War the transforming event revealing Srila Prabhupadas arrival in the US (ISKCONs own birth) amid disillusionment prodded by devastation in Vietnam, and second the Hindu resistance in Bangladesh. The similarity is that custodians of the keertan the keertanis monks or non-sanyasis have found themselves in a heightened state of disquiet, trepidation and anxiety amid the dominance of local groups in tension-ripped terrains. This points to the proclivity of keertan to come in conflict with forces that oppose Sanatan. Keertan is the most formidable voice of Sanatan and its power is grossly underestimated and underused in the current political scenario. 2024 reminded us that keertan succeeds in creating, finding and reclaiming room in places, and chapters of history, where the voice of Hindu is becoming feeble or being stifled. A substantial case in point is the history of Ramjanmabhoomi itself where independent Indias first karsevak Thakur Gurudutt Singh was able to insert the dominance of keertan when politics was challenging dharma and bhakti in the events of December 22, 1949. On that day, Rama Janmabhoomis history would witness Hindus defend the vigraha (the sacred idol) of Ramlalla through the power of keertan. The title of Bharats first karsevak" was given to Thakur Gurudutt Singh, then magistrate of Faizabad, by Ashok Singhal. Singh withstood political superiors Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (then prime minister) and Pandit Govind Vallabh Pant (then chief minister of Uttar Pradesh). In January 2024, when keertanis, sants of Ayodhya, monks and the common man arrived in Ayodhya, keertan led by the Nirmohi Akhada at Shri Rama Janmabhoomi in 1949 and the display of courage from Singh, returned to local retelling of history. The assemblage of devotees to invoke the divine, is a bodily occurrence an experience in articulatory participation. In December 2023, I joined devotees from across India who had gathered for the darshan of Salagram Shila (rock) transported from Galeshwar Dham in Nepal to Janakpur Dham (Sitas abode in Nepal), and from Janakpur Dham to Ayodhya. Ayodhya was preparing to usher in the decisive consequence in its civilisational, political and cultural history. The sight of the Salagram Shila from Nepal moved devotees to tears. Instantaneous was their joyous response to meanings manifested in the arrival of the shila from Nepal, the other cradle of Sanatan dharma, in the form of keertan. Towards the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, hundreds of devotees of the ISKCON imparted on a journey on foot from different cities, to mark the celebration of the epochal event, chanting the Mahamantra and walking miles. From a vantage point, the dynamic participation of Warkaris, keertanis, and bhajankaris, in the silent movement" erected by the Sangh parivar contributing to BJPs victory in the Maharashtra assembly election, was not silent" in nature. Keertan is music in devotion; musicality and music are not silent, therefore, a political movement created by utilising keertan cannot be silent in nature, outcome, chronology, and corollary. Keertan as an aspect of devotional music, rather, is made of pauses and silences that have the capacity to embrace political inroads and watersheds conducive to dharma and favourable to political entities inclined to protecting dharma, mandir", pratishtha". The participation of reportedly nearly 4,000 keertanis from the Warkari sect, understood to have stemmed from the Sangh parivars ideological groundwork, brought an amalgamation of the right intonation of caste inclusiveness. It succeeded in forging a historic transition in keertans interaction with political persuasion to defend, protect and restore political order. A political party verbalised in its campaign the critical need for Hindu unity against powers that splinter and thrive on splintering the Hindu into castes and sub-castes for electoral gains. This indicates the following: politics responded to the mass tradition centered on Pandharpur, Sant Tukaram, Sant Dyaneshwar, Sant Namdev Maharaj and other sants of Maharashtra. the Sangh parivar read the ground, applied discernment and comprehension of events inimical to Hindu unity and Hindu well-being, to their rethinking strategies, which led to the roping in of keertanis. Politics upheld Warkari as identity and keeper of tradition. PM Narendra Modi and leaders of the Mahayuti spoke about empowering and improving the yatra and dindis, during political rallies. This led to Warkari sampradaya outreach, pilgrimage-related policies, tangible steps towards improving drinking water availability and sanitation, and more, between 2022 and 2024. Maharashtra-2024 has given Hindus across the world a paradigm in political reclamation through keertan. It reinstates that mobility of keertan, its permeability in different spaces, generational realms, and its presence in the universal language of devotion. Temple consecrated (in Ayodhya) or temples destroyed or desecrated (anywhere in India or the world) both situations and contrasts can release a Tsunami of reclamation and restoration through keertan. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Each time keertan is offered as a palpable stimuli in participation of high spiritual, religious and cultural relevance, a new audience is formed. This audience impulsively dedicates itself to the divine, and to keertan. As the year of the Mahakumbh, 2025 will see that new audience walk miles for dharma. If you hear them singing, join them with a pair of brass cymbals. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:29 IST 2024 In Indian Politics: Big Surprises And Major Setbacks | Year-ender Written By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 10:57 IST The BJP scripted history by returning to power for a third straight term, but its tally rested at 240 seats32 short of the majority mark of 272after comfortably crossing the magic figure back to back in 2014 and 2019 Six states went to polls this year. The BJP and its allies won four, while the opposition INDIA bloc managed to win Jammu & Kashmir and retain Jharkhand. (PTI Photos) The year 2024 in Indian politics was a rollercoaster ride for leaders and their parties. The big poll season began with chatter around the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s abki baar 400 paar" slogan, following its landslide victories in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh assembly polls last winter. BJP supporters were also infused with new energy after the opening of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya in January this year, a watershed that brought a movement spanning over a century to an end. But it was the opposition that was buoyed after the 2024 election results. The BJP scripted history by returning to power for a third straight term, but its tally rested at 240 seats32 short of the majority mark of 272after comfortably crossing the magic figure back to back in 2014 and 2019. It needed the help of allies to form government at the Centre. Later, a section of analysts would stress how significant the BJPs victory was in a year when incumbent governments collapsed across the worldfrom the US to the UK. related stories Even then, the BJPs Lok Sabha showing was way off what most pollsters had predicted, bringing smiles to a united opposition bloc. The Congress doubled its 2019 tally, ended up with 99 seats and proclaimed moral victory", an assertion called out by its critics who asked what it was celebrating. Nonetheless, those celebrations were ephemeral. The BJP managed to change the narrative, scoring stunning wins in assembly elections in Maharashtra and Haryana, the two states that dented its numbers in the Lok Sabha. Heres a breakdown of what all happened in Indian politics in 2024: Lok Sabha Elections The Lok Sabha polls threw up a bouquet of surprises. First, the BJP won 240 seats and its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) bagged around 290 seats in the 543-member House. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Haryana disappointed the BJP and brought down its tally from 303 seats in 2019. The BJP was hoping to increase its seats in West Bengal and southern states, but regional parties like Mamata Banerjees Trinamool Congress and MK Stalins DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) stood their ground. On the other hand, the BJP swept Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Delhi, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Second, the Congresss performance in the Lok Sabha polls became a talking pointmore so since its leaders were visibly happy (if not euphoric) about the results that came at a time when many had written the party off. The Congress regained some lost ground in Maharashtra, Telangana, Haryana and Punjab. However, the impact was limited, and it faced direct contests with the BJP in Rajasthan and Karnataka. Later, BJP leaders said the Opposition gained due to the spreading of what they called false narratives" around the Constitution and reservation, especially in the battleground states of Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, several BJP allies said that the 400 paar" slogan could have backfired. 6 Months Of Modi 3.0 Despite losing the majority, the BJP retained all major portfolios like Home, Finance, Defence, and Foreign Affairs. The party even assigned the same portfolios to ministers who were holding the responsibilities and made Om Birla the Lok Sabha speaker again, signalling a continuity in the government. However, the governments scrapping of the UPSCs lateral entry policy after objections by the BJPs Bihar allies Nitish Kumars Janata Dal (U) and Chirag Paswans Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) was dubbed a U-turn" by the Opposition who pointed at coalition pressures". Later in the year, a controversial Waqf amendment bill was sent to the Parliaments standing committee, a first such referral in five years. Assembly Elections Six states went to polls this year. The BJP and its allies won four, while the opposition INDIA bloc managed to win Jammu & Kashmir and retain Jharkhand. In J&Ks first assembly election after it was made a Union Territory in 2019, the National Conference emerged triumphant in alliance with the Congress. However, the BJP bagged over half the seats in the Jammu region, an impressive performance. In Jharkhand, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)s Hemant Soren was sworn in as the chief minister again, with the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) his allies. State elections in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh were held simultaneously with the national polls. In Odisha, the BJP ended the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Naveen Patnaiks two-decade rule and won a shock majority. Buzz around Patnaiks ill health and his successor" bureaucrat-turned-politician V K Pandian taking over as the CM became talking points in the BJP campaign. In Andhra Pradesh, Jagan Reddys YSRCP was decimated, five years after it stormed to power with a massive mandate. BJP ally Chandrababu Naidu, who spent 53 days in jail before getting bail in a corruption case, returned as the chief minister after voters gave a massive mandate to his Telugu Desam Party (TDP). top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Most pollsters had predicted the BJPs rout in Haryana, but the party formed government in the northern state for the third consecutive time in a miracle comeback. Internal rebellion, among other factors, was attributed to the poor performance of the Congress, while political pundits applauded BJPs booth management. Maharashtra was the finale of the 2024 election year. It was the state where the BJP-led NDA lost the battle to the INDIA bloc in the national polls. Six major parties, with three on each side, went to the ballot battle. But the BJPs Mahayuti won a big mandate, securing over 200 seats in the 288-member assembly. The BJP won over 134 seats on its own with a strike rate of almost 90%. Eknath Shindes Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawars Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) also seemed to have settled the whos the real?" debate with their dominance over Uddhav Thackerays Sena and Sharad Pawars NCP, according to a section of analysts and the winning sides. First Published: December 31, 2024, 10:57 IST BJP's 'Chief Crisis Manager' Amit Shah Came Through For The Party Yet Again In 2024; Here's How Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 11:39 IST There is a reason why he is referred to as the Chanakya of modern-day politics, and, of course, that was on display again, as after losing some ground in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP was able to turn around its fortunes, first in the... Read More As the BJPs national president earlier, Amit Shah led the party to victory in regions where it had never expected major success. (File image/PTI) In fact, Prime Minister Narendra Modis home state of Gujarat also saw the partys performance dip, as it lost one seat after winning all 26 in both 2014 and 2019. related stories But the saying that when the going gets tough, the tough get going holds true for the saffron partys chief crisis manager, Amit Shah. There is a reason why he is referred to as the Chanakya of modern-day politics, and, of course, that was on display again, as the BJP was able to turn around its fortunes, first in the assembly polls of Haryana, followed by the big win in Maharashtra. Many people had written off the BJP in the northern state of Haryana, where, at one point, the opposition Congress looked all set to snatch power. However, Amit Shah took upon himself the responsibility of making the BJP victorious in Haryana. As always, the booth-level reach-out strategy was able to yield brilliant results as the saffron party practically swept the polls on its own. For that election, Amit Shah had deputed his close associate Dharmendra Pradhan, and in Maharashtra, another trusted colleague Bhupendra Yadav was handed the reins. Similarly, Shahs close associate Himanta Biswa Sarma was asked to manage the elections in the eastern state of Jharkhand. The results here, however, did not go in favour of the saffron party. BJP general secretaries Sunil Bansal and Vinod Tawde, known to be very close to Amit Shah, have also held dynamic roles in the organisation. Tawde will handle the key assembly polls in Bihar in 2025, and Bansal, who apparently knows the politics of Uttar Pradesh like the back of his hand, was given the responsibility of Odisha, which delivered fantastic results. Shah, who is an objective politician, did not leave anything to chance and held meetings across the organisation from the booth level onwards to ensure electoral outcomes in favour of the party. Micromanagement by Shah, from the campaign to the vision document, gave many newcomers in the party a close look at his organisational skills. It was a daunting task to lead the alliance to victory in an important state like Maharashtra, with the Lok Sabha elections not having delivered the desired results here. But, apart from ensuring an agreement on the distribution of seats, Amit Shah also played a crucial role in taking alliance partners, especially Eknath Shindes party, on board for the allocation of posts and portfolios. One of the biggest challenges for the union home minister was undoubtedly conducting peaceful elections in Jammu and Kashmir, a promise made by the BJP-led government at the Centre. The abrogation of Article 370 sections, spearheaded by Shah, was followed by a big challenge for the union government, and that was to ensure an elected government came to power. Deeply invested in the welfare of the union territory, along with knowing the nuances of the security establishment, the home minister played a big role in ensuring peaceful elections in J&K. Ensuring peace in the northeastern state of Manipur has been a nettlesome issue for the government, which has seen the home ministers personal intervention. Engaging with both the Meiteis and the Kukis, the home minister has a watchful eye on Manipur, giving the BJP confidence that peace will eventually prevail in the state. As the BJPs national president earlier, Amit Shah led the party to victory in regions where it had never expected major success. He prompted the saffron partys victory in Tripura, where the BJP was able to form a government after ending two and a half decades of Left rule. Often in conversations with the media, Amit Shah would say that his leadership would not be successful unless he could help his party win states like West Bengal and Odisha. A part of his dream came true with the BJP forming a government with an overwhelming majority in Odisha in 2024. As another election for the partys top post nears, BJP workers, given an opportunity, would no doubt propose Shahs name again. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all However, it is unlikely that Shah would return as BJP national president, as he has his hands full with the responsibilities of home minister and minister of cooperation in the union government. JP Nadda earlier took over the partys reins from Amit Shah, and in the last three years, he has had mixed fortunes electorally. During his tenure, the BJP was able to form a government with a massive mandate in Uttar Pradesh. However, the saffron party also lost the assembly elections in the party presidents home state, Himachal Pradesh. But Shah and Nadda have worked together as a team. From taking calls on organisational appointments to alliances, they have struck up a solid understanding. The search for a new party president is quite a daunting one. Several names have been doing the rounds. However, many agree that the biggest challenge for anyone would be to fill the shoes of the big man from Gujarat. First Published: December 31, 2024, 11:39 IST BPSC Paper Leaks Put Nitish Kumars Sushasan In A Tight Spot Months Before Bihar Polls Written By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 10:17 IST The situation currently appears to be sensitive as the Opposition parties in the state, including RJD and Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraj, have also joined the students while supporting their cause. Patna: Aspirants stage a protest over the alleged paper leak in the 70th Integrated Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024, conducted by Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC). (Image: PTI) It is to be seen how Kumar weathers the storm months before the state goes to polls. With the Bihar Chief Minister in Delhi to meet BJPs national president JP Nadda, the senior leaders of Janata Dal United (JDU) said that there are chances of fresh announcements regarding the examinations, when the CM is back. The states chief secretary has already been assigned to meet a delegation of protesting students, sources in JDU claimed. related stories The situation currently appears to be sensitive as the Opposition parties in the state, including RJD and Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj, have also joined the students while supporting their cause. Even the NDA ally, LJP, expressed its concern. Chirag Paswan of the LJP posted on social media stating that he too sought CMs intervention into the matter. Rajiv Ranjan Prasad, JDUs national spokesperson, however, said that the Opposition parties, including RJD and Congress leaders, are inciting the students. He also added that the state government is taking adequate measures to address the situation and redress the grievances of the students. Frequent leaks point to well-oiled racket Frequency of such incidents across the state and central competitive and service related examinations are so high and the paper-leak industry is so well-oiled in the state that it prompted Nitish Kumars government to bring a strict legislation to curb the paper leaks through penal actions. However, not much seems to have changed as BPSC has once again found itself in the eye of a political storm due to allegations of examination paper leaks, posing a significant challenge to Chief Minister Nitish Kumars administration. While paper-leaks are not new to Bihars governance system, the current controversy erupted during the Combined Preliminary Examination, where candidates reported receiving question papers late, with claims that the papers had been leaked prior to the exam. Protests followed, with aspirants demanding a re-examination and also stricter rules to prevent such irregularities. The situation quickly escalated, with demonstrations spreading across Patna, including at Gandhi Maidan, where police allegedly resorted to water cannons and lathi charges to disperse the crowds. This is not the first time that BPSC has faced such controversies. In 2022, the civil services preliminary examination was cancelled following a paper leak, highlighting systemic issues within the states recruitment processes. The NEET papers were also leaked in Bihar. The state is yet to have a robust mechanism to arrest such paper-leaks while the incidents are still rampant. The recurrence of such scandals has severely eroded public trust, giving opposition parties fresh ammunition to question the governments efficiency and accountability. Is Sushasan Babu listening? Opposition leader and the states former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav lambasted the administration, stating, Is there even a government here (in Bihar)? CM Nitish Kumar is not capable of taking a decision any more." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor also added to the pressure, joining the protests and accusing the state administration of neglecting the grievances of the protestors. He criticised CM Nitish Kumar for prioritising a personal trip to New Delhi over addressing the crisis and suggested that students adopt a relay fast as a peaceful form of protest. As protests intensify and political scrutiny increases, Nitish Kumars government now faces mounting pressure to restore credibility to the BPSC examination process. The administrations ability to address the grievances of aspirants and implement robust reforms with a proper system in place will be a litmus test for Nitish Kumars commitment to transparency and governance maintaining his public name Sushasan Babu. First Published: December 31, 2024, 10:17 IST 'Chunavi Hindu': BJP's Dig At Kejriwal's Rs 18,000 Priest Honorarium Scheme, AAP Hits Back Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 18:38 IST While the BJP mocked Arvind Kejriwal in a poster with a 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' twist, the AAP retaliated by "challenging" the saffron party to introduce a similar scheme in the 20 states ruled by it AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal launches the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana' during a visit to the Marghat Wale Baba temple, in New Delhi on December 31. (Image: PTI) As AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday launched the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, promising a monthly allowance of Rs 18,000 for temple priests and granthis of gurdwaras, a political war of words raged over the scheme with the BJP calling Arvind Kejriwal chunavi Hindu". The BJP mocked Kejriwal in a post on social media platform X, showing him in a priest-like avatar similar to a character in Bollywood film Bhool Bhulaiyaa. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also retaliated with a poster of its own challenging" the BJP to introduce a similar scheme in the 20 states ruled by the party. related stories In one of its major poll promises, the AAP on Monday (December 30) announced that it will launch the scheme if it is re-elected in Delhi. Kejriwal launched the scheme earlier in the day, registering the priest of Marghat Wale Baba temple near Kashmere Gate ISBT, following which Chief Minister Atishi visited a gurdwara in Karol Bagh to conduct registrations. The former chief minister said this process will be followed at other temples and gurdwaras across the city by AAP workers. He alleged that the BJP tried its best, but no one can stop a devotee from meeting the god. He added that he will visit the Prachin Hanuman Mandir at Connaught Place to register the priests there. But, as the politics over the honorarium gathered momentum in Delhi, a group of priests staged a protest against him outside the temple for announcing the honorarium after a delay of 10 years. WHAT IS THE BJP SAYING? In its poster mocking Arvind Kejriwal, the BJP called him a chunavi Hindu" (Hindu for electoral purposes), saying visiting temples was a mere illusion" for the AAP leader. The party said he had ridiculed Sanatan Dharma" at every step of his political career and the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana was simply an electoral gimmick". 10 ? pic.twitter.com/KMKntiOlXW BJP Delhi (@BJP4Delhi) December 31, 2024 Delhi BJP leaders joined the chorus against the AAP and Kejriwal, with MP Bansuri Swaraj calling the scheme an appeasement" move ahead of the assembly polls. In a press conference, she challenged the AAP chief to implement the schemes announced by him, including the Mahila Samman Yojna, saying there is no model code of conduct in place. Bansuri said the AAP government was unable to pay Rs 18,000 to imams of mosques for months due to lack of funds and yet Kejriwal was trying to appease the priests and granthis just before the elections. She questioned why there was no honorarium for hem in the last 10 years. Addressing a press conference, BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia dubbed the announcement of the monthly honorarium as yet another false promise" by the AAP. He claimed that the AAP leader knows his political life" is coming to an end. He further said until recently his government was opening liquor shops outside religious places. He noted that the AAP government has also promised a similar amount to imams, but has not paid them for 17 months. There has been no bigger fraud and deceitful politician in India than him," he alleged. Another BJP leader, Vijay Goel, lashed out at Kejriwal over his declaration of the scheme and told PTI that all these announcements are mere election promises. Why is Arvind Kejriwal not contesting the elections on poor drinking water, pollution in Delhi, corruption, water, electricity problem and bad road conditions?" he asked. Former Delhi MP Parvesh Verma said Kejriwal is remembering ishwar and waheguru due to the fear of loss. But he did not remember them for the last 10 years, only remembering maulvis of the mosque, and saw only one religion and one vote bank. HOW DID THE AAP RESPOND? If nothing else, the pre-poll poster war between the two parties hit an all-time high. The AAP hit back at the BJP in an open challenge", daring it to roll out similar schemes in the 20 states where it held power. On X, Kejriwal said the BJP has been abusing him since he announced the scheme. My question to them is will the country benefit from abusing me? You have governments in 20 states. You have been in power in Gujarat for 30 years. Why havent you respected the priests and granthis there till now? Come on, do it now? I have shown the way to everyone. Instead of abusing me, why dont you implement it in your 20 states, then everyone will benefit? Why do you abuse me?" he wrote in Hindi. Former deputy CM and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia said he is confident that God will surely listen to the prayers of the priests" to make Kejriwal the CM again. priests from different temples came and prayed to make Arvind Kejriwal the CM of Delhi again I had a very pleasant experienceand I am confident that God will surely listen to the prayers of the priests. Just yesterday, Arvind Kejriwal announced that after our government is formed in Delhi, priests and granthis of Delhi will be given Rs 18,000 every month. I am hopeful that Gods blessings will be on us," he added. WHAT IS THE SCHEME, WHY THE TUSSLE? Kejriwal launched a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 for Hindu temple priests and gurdwara granthis in Delhi. He, however, did not elaborate on the guidelines for registration and the eligibility criteria for the scheme. There are no official numbers of registered temple priests and gurdwara granthis in Delhi. Their numbers will be known after the registration process is complete," he said when asked about the number of potential beneficiaries and stressed that there will be no lack of funds for it. The announcement evoked sharp reactions from the opposition BJP and Congress. While the BJP dubbed the announcement a political stunt", the Congress termed it a trickery". Kejriwal sought to outplay the BJP, saying the party should not try to hamper the scheme as it will be sinful". Just like the BJP tried to stop the Mahila Samman Yojana by sending police but couldnt, similarly they shouldnt try to stop the Pujari Granthi Samman scheme. The BJP will incur a great sin by doing this. This scheme is a tribute to their spiritual contribution to the society and their efforts to preserve our cultural heritage," he said in a social media post. The AAP said several priests and granthis visited Kejriwal at his residence to bless him following the announcement. Meanwhile, several imams and muazzins of the Waqf Board-registered mosques protested near his residence, demanding their salaries allegedly pending for the last 17 months. The Delhi government pays monthly Rs 18,000 to imams and Rs 16,000 to muazzins of mosques registered with the Delhi Waqf Board. Kejriwal is making desperate attempts to shine his tainted image and regain his lost ground by announcing various freebies to influence the voters with an eye on the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections," alleged Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The BJP claimed that no one will get anything because there was no data of such priests. Delhi unit chief Veerendra Sachdeva said Kejriwal is now a defeated and desperate" leader who is making populist announcements daily to stay in power. (With PTI inputs) First Published: December 31, 2024, 18:21 IST Kerala CM's 'Narayana Guru Not Linked With Sanatana Dharma' Remark Sparks Row Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 21:55 IST Sanatana Dharma is nothing but varnasrama dharma (caste-based social order), which Guru had challenged and overcome, he said, adding that the new age humanistic dharma advocated by him stands with time. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan (File image: X) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday cautioned against "organised efforts" to portray sage-social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, who advocated "one caste, one religion and one God for people", as a proponent of Sanatana Dharma. He claimed that the Guru had neither been a spokesperson nor a practitioner of the Sanatana Dharma, but a saint who had reconstructed it and proclaimed a Dharma befitting to the new age. related stories Sanatana Dharma is nothing but varnasrama dharma (caste-based social order), which Guru had challenged and overcome, he said, adding that the new age "humanistic dharma" advocated by him stands with time. Trying to fix the Guru in the framework of Sanatana Dharma is a great insult to the saint, Vijayan said, while inaugurating a pilgrimage conference held in Sivagiri, the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangam here. Varnasrama Dharma is synonymous with or an integral part of Sanatana Dharma, he said, adding that Gurus ascetic life was the one which questioned and defied the entire chaturvarnya system. "Attempts to downplay social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as a mere religious leader or as a religious saint must be realised. It should be understood that Guru had no religion and had no caste," the CM said. If someone tries to place Guru himself within the boundaries of caste or religion, there can be no insult to the sage beyond that, he added. Warning that there would be attempts to present the Guru as an advocate of whatever he had fought against, Vijayan urged people to be vigilant against such attempts. "Dont let that happen. Be able to firmly state that such misinterpretations will not be tolerated," he said. Meanwhile, the chief ministers remarks drew sharp reactions from the BJP, which alleged that Vijayan had insulted Sanatana Dharma in the holy land of Sivagiri. The CM also insulted the followers of Sree Narayana Guru through his remarks, it said. "The crux of Vijayans speech at the Sivagiri conference was that Sanatana Dharma should be hated. His remarks were a continuation of Udayanidhi Stalins statement that Sanatana Dharma should be eradicated," senior BJP leader V Muraleedharan told reporters here. The former union minister sought to know whether the Left veteran would have the courage to say such things about the Holy Quran. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Alleging that the Hindu community in Kerala faced the greatest challenge during Vijayans rule, he said the Left veteran tried to challenge the faith at Sabarimala and during Thrissur Pooram. Muraleedharan also said that the people of Kerala would reject the Communist propaganda portraying Guru as an enemy of Sanatana Dharma. Location : Varkala, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 21:55 IST Suvendu Adhikari Warns Mamata Banerjee: 'She'll Face Action For Oppressing Sandeshkhali Women' Published By : PTI Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 19:47 IST Adhikari, senior BJP leader, accused Banerjee of framing false charges against women in Sandeshkhali. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has attacked West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over the Sandeshkhali issue. (IMAGE: PTI) A day after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attended a programme in Sandeshkhali, senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday held a rally at the same place and accused her government of framing false charges against women in the area for protesting against the alleged misdeeds by local TMC leaders. Addressing a public meeting on the island, situated on the borders of the Sundarbans, in North 24 Parganas district, Adhikari, the leader of opposition in the assembly, described Banerjee as a person with mischievous intent". related stories He vowed to constitute an inquiry commission to probe into alleged atrocities by local TMC leaders if the BJP comes to power in the 2026 assembly polls. Mamata Banerjee had conspired for the arrest of mothers and sisters at Sandeshkhali before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. They were slapped with false charges and arrested for protesting against the atrocities by local TMC strongmen like Shahjahan Sheikh. You (Mamata Banerjee) will face action for abetting such oppression if the BJP comes to power" Adhikari said. Sandeshkhali witnessed large-scale protests earlier this year over alleged land-grabbing and sexual harassment of women by local TMC leaders. On her first visit to Sandeshkhali since protests erupted over alleged land grabbing and sexual harassment of women by local TMC leaders, Banerjee had on Monday asked its residents not to pay anyone to avail benefits of state-run schemes. Banerjee had visited the island to chair a public distribution programme. The CM also urged local women not to pay attention if anyone calls them for any reason and alleged that a huge amount of money was used to flare up the protest in Sandeshkhali. The saffron party leader claimed that the TMC managed to win the Basirhat Lok Sabha Seat, of which Sandeshkhali is an assembly segment, because of Muslim votes". The BJP, however, was ahead in the Sandeshkhali assembly segment here. The results of the next assembly elections in Sandeshkhali will be in the BJPs favour as Hindus have already consolidated. They witnessed persecution by the TMC and would vote collectively against the ruling party," he alleged. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Adhikari also claimed that the BJP had won from Nandigram in the 2021 assembly polls and from Tamluk in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections with consolidated Hindu votes", and said this momentum will continue". Accusing the TMC of resorting to unfair electoral practices", he claimed that the nomination paper of late TMC MP from Basirhat Hazi Sk Nurul Islam was fraught with flaws" and Rekha Patra, BJPs candidate from the area in Lok Sabha polls, lodged a complaint with the Election Commission. Location : Sandeshkhali, West Bengal First Published: December 31, 2024, 19:36 IST '2024 Was Wild': Bengaluru Entrepreneur Opens Up About Startup Setbacks After Quitting Rs 1 Crore Job Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 16:28 IST Reflecting on his roller-coaster year on the social media platform X, Tripathi said he left his Rs 1 Crore job in 2024, driven by a desire to start his venture without a backup plan. Shakti Mani Tripathi worked at Amazon as a software engineer. (Photo: Getty Images) Embracing the entrepreneurial spirit thats sweeping across industries, a Bengaluru-based techie recently shared his inspiring journey of leaving a lucrative six-figure salary to pursue the challenging yet rewarding path of building his startup. The user, Shakti Mani Tripathi, recently took to his social media account X (formerly Twitter) and opened up about the difficulties he faced in his entrepreneurial journey after quitting his high-paying job at Amazon as a software engineer. Tripathi, the co-founder and CTO of Reflecc, an AI startup aimed at automating business and operational workflows of organisations, expressed that his journey from employee to entrepreneur was no cakewalk. In the now-viral post, he recounted his entrepreneurial journey in 2024, which was filled with setbacks. related stories Reflecting on his roller-coaster year on the social media platform X, Tripathi said he left his job in 2024, driven by a desire to start his venture without a backup plan. He wrote, 2024 has been a wild year for me. Left my Rs 1 crore job at Amazon without any backup, out of an urge to finally start-up." After quitting his job, Tripathis first attempt at entrepreneurship was at a startup called Hoobahoo AI, which uses AI for various business applications. However, the idea was rejected by Y Combinator. Then, he pitched it to more than 30 venture capitalists but failed to raise funds. This forced him to shut down Hoobahoo AI due to high customer acquisition costs and a lack of funds. But he had no plans of giving up. Tripathi and his co-founder, Kunal Ranjan, started working on another ideaa B2B SaaS platform aimed at improving engineering team productivity metrics. Unfortunately, this idea was also abandoned after the duo realised that measuring the productivity of software engineers was too much qualitative nuance." Their next attempt was Codermon AI, an AI agent for developers with ad-hoc tasks. They realised the market was already overcrowded and the duo decided to pivot again. Continuing their quest, Tripathi and his team explored the supply chain industry to develop an AI agent for procurement. They realised that prior work experience in this domain is essential, which they lacked. Undeterred by multiple setbacks, Tripathi started his new project, Reflecc AI. He and his team developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in just seven days and interviewed over 50 prospective clients and thought leaders for feedback. Their efforts finally paid off as they managed to secure three Letters of Intent (LOIs) from clients, showing genuine interest in the product. They even made it to Y Combinators top 10 per cent of applications but still got rejected in the end. 2024 has been a WILD year for me ?? Left my 1 crore job at Amazon without any backup, out of an urge to finally 'start up' Became International Master on Codeforces from my ex-girlfriends handle Founded my first startup @hoobahoo_ai Got rejected by YC In just 3 Shakti Mani Tripathi (@shaktimtripathi) December 30, 2024 Reflecting on his experiences, Tripathi realised that the company had been trying to solve several problems at once, by taking a horizontal approach. So, they decided to focus more narrowly and now they are developing an AI-based digital marketing tool, with hopes for a fresh start in the brand new year. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The entrepreneur concluded the post, expressing that he had failed several times, but he had learnt valuable lessons along the way. He also exclaimed, I hope 2025 doesnt force me to quit my entrepreneurial journey and return to being an employee once again." The now-viral post has reached over 70,000 viewers and users chimed in to share words of encouragement for their consistent efforts, while some also shared their own experiences of facing failures. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 16:28 IST Gautam Adanis Perspective On Work-Life Balance: 'Focus On Happiness, Not Imposing Views' Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:28 IST Gautam Adani believes if a person enjoys their work, theyll naturally be able to achieve balance in life. Adani shared his thoughts at a press conference. (Photo Credits: Instagram) After Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy suggested that young people should work at least 70 hours a week or 12 hours every day to succeed and boost the countrys economy, the topic of work-life balance became a hot debate. While most people criticised Murthys statement, a few supported him. Recently, Gautam Adani, the founder and chairman of Adani Group, shared his views on the subject. The billionaire said that if a person enjoys their work, theyll naturally be able to achieve balance in life. He also mentioned that everyone has their way of working and living life, and no one should try to impose their ideas on others. As per ANI, in a recent press conference, Adani said, If you do what makes you happy, thats your work-life balance. Dont impose your work-life balance on me and I shouldnt impose my work-life balance on you. All you need to focus on is whether youre spending four hours with your family and enjoying it. If someone else spends eight hours and enjoys it, thats their balance. If someone spends eight hours at work, their wife might run away. The key is to see how much time you can take out for your family and if youre happy with it and your family is happy, then its fine." related stories #WATCH | Delhi | On work-life balance, Adani Group Chairman, Gautam Adani says, "Your work-life is balanced when you do things which you like doing" pic.twitter.com/ePDdhJuL9W ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2024 While appearing on Mohandas Pais The Record podcast in 2023, Narayana Murthy said, In the last 300 years, India has received some respect in the eyes of the committee of nations. It is the responsibility of every Indian but more, so the youth to consolidate that respect and to enhance that respect. I have said many times before, that the only way the world will respect anybody is performance. Thats where I often used to say performance leads to recognition, recognition leads to respect and respect leads to power. China is a great example. Therefore, my request to all the wonderful youth of this country is that realize this and work 12-hour days for the next 20 years, 50 years, so that India becomes a number one nation or number two nation. There is an urgent need for our youth to focus on this." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all People, including Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu, Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal and Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal, have supported Narayana Murthys perspective. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 14:22 IST Influencer Faces Internets Wrath For Staging Fake Kidnapping In Nigeria Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:17 IST Soon after the confession went viral, the influencer faced a strong backlash with some even calling for arrest. People accused her of tarnishing Nigeria's reputation. (Photo Credits: X) Influencer Victoria Rose, popularly known as Whoa Vicky, recently sparked concerns by claiming she was kidnapped in Nigeria. However, it was later revealed that the whole story was a lie. In an Instagram Live, the Internet personality admitted she made up the kidnapping story simply because she was bored and wanted to have some fun. Her confession quickly triggered an outrage on social media, with many people calling for her arrest. The hoax began when her fans came across concerning messages about her kidnapping in a now-deleted video on X (formerly Twitter) and people who kept her hostage were demanding $1 million. While speaking with her fans on Instagram in the latest live chat, she could be heard saying, Sorry about that, everythings good. I was bored and having fun, just getting a laugh. Just getting a laugh, fam. Thats it. Its all love, Im just having fun with my brother, everythings good. Please forgive me." related stories Soon after the confession went viral, the influencer faced a strong backlash with some even calling for arrest. People accused her of tarnishing Nigerias reputation. Reacting to the post, a user wrote, So arrest her, thats a false crime." Another asked, Who allowed this set of people into Nigeria?" Why is she even relevant?" a comment read. One more added, Shes too damn old to be still doing the antics." In another X post, Victoria Rose explained how her plan came into existence. She wrote, The prank started with us calling people I know from America. Then my brother from the USA posted it, and it ended up on blogs. Afterwards, my brother from the USA suggested I make a tweet to keep it going, saying it was a good prank and that my father was a great actor. He even mentioned we could make money by creating a cryptocurrency based on the prank. Father and I agreed, but in hindsight, it was a terrible idea. It quickly became clear how bad this was when his friends started calling him, concerned. Thats when we decided to go live and explain that it was all fake. Ive learned a lot from this, and Ill be taking time off the Internet to reflect, fast and grow closer to God." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Whoa Vicky later said she was sorry for any harm caused by her prank. She admitted that not thinking before acting led to serious consequences. Vicky mentioned that her brother and father had supported her during her trip to Nigeria. She also apologised for mocking the country and claimed that it was never her intention to disrespect anyone. She added that she loves Nigeria and its people. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 11:32 IST 'She Deserves Happiness': Pakistani Man Arranges Second Marriage For His Mother Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 15:05 IST Shared on Instagram, the clip unfolds to show Abdul Ahads precious moments with his mother. There are also some glimpses of his mothers nikaah ceremony, symbolising their strong bond. The newlywed also took to the comment section to hail his son. (Photo Credits: X) In a society where remarriage, especially for women, can be met with hesitation, a heartwarming story emerges from Pakistan, where a man becomes a source of support for his mother as she embarks on a new chapter of love. This touching gesture has recently surfaced on social media, earning widespread praise from users. The clip captured the hearts of the internet, and they hailed the man for becoming the pillar of support for his mother and helping her embrace a second chance at love and life. Shared on Instagram, the clip unfolds to show Abdul Ahads precious moments with his mother. In the end, there are also glimpses of his mothers nikaah ceremony, symbolising their strong bond. In the emotional video, he said, In the past 18 years, I tried my best to give her a special life according to my worth, as she sacrificed her whole life for us. But eventually, she deserved her own peaceful life, so as a son, I think I did the right thing. I supported my mom in taking a second chance at love and life after 18 years." related stories In no time, the newlywed took to the comment section, expressing, Thank you so much, my beloved children. You have been my constant support, my strength, and my greatest blessing. Even in moments when I doubted whether this decision would bring any good into my life, you stood by me, assuring me that no matter what, you would always be there, just as you always have been. You never left my side, not once in my entire life, and for that, I am endlessly grateful." Your love, understanding, and happiness in seeing me take this step have given me the courage to believe in love again. I am so proud of the incredible individual youve grown into, and it is because of you that I had the strength to take this chance, to believe in the possibility of love again. You are the reason I still have faith in lifes beauty and second chances. Mama is so proud of each of you, my precious babies. Mama loves you more than words can ever express. Thank you for being the light in my life," she added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abdul Ahad | (@muserft.ahad) In a follow-up post, Abdul dropped a photo with her mother from the ceremony alongside a heartfelt note. He penned, It took me days to share the news of my mothers marriage due to hesitation, but the love and support you all showed is truly overwhelming. I told Amma how you people appreciated and respected our decision, and we are both grateful. I may not be able to respond to every message, comment, and story, but please know that each one means the world to us." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abdul Ahad | (@muserft.ahad) Within no time, Abduls heartwarming gesture struck a chord with social media users, sparking an outpouring of emotions from viewers. From joyful to emotional reactions, the internet community flooded the comments section of the post with varied reactions. A majority of users chimed in praising Abdul for not thinking about the societal norms and prioritising his mothers happiness. Others expressed their happiness and wished the woman a happily ever after. You did the right thing!! Shes so beautiful, MASHALLAH. May Allah bless you all. Ameen," a user expressed. Another wrote, Sending truckloads of prayers your way for being the most sensible, thoughtful, and selfless son. Wish you get to see your mum be even happier in this new chapter of life, then it will all be worth it." An account remarked, This video has truly touched my heart. Watching a son give his mother a second chance at love and happiness after all her sacrifices is beyond beautiful." May your family continue to receive blessings for this selfless act," posted another. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all An individual commented, Im so proud of a son like you! Shes raised a man! Alhamdulilah!" In just a week of being shared, the clip has mustered 1.1 million views and over 72,000 likes. Needless to say, the numbers are still rising. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 15:05 IST This Gang Of Thieves In UP Receives 'Fixed Salary, Free Food And Travel Allowance' Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 14:06 IST A gang of mobile phone thieves in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, has made headlines for offering an "employee-friendly work environment". This well-organised gang is led by a Jharkhand-based mastermind. (Representative Image) Ever heard of a gang where the employees receive more benefits than some corporate workers? In a bizarre case, a gang of mobile phone thieves in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, has made headlines for offering an employee-friendly work environment". This gang not only paid its members a fixed monthly salary of Rs 15,000 but also provided them with free food and travel allowances, turning organised crime into something that feels oddly corporate. The revelation was shared by the Times of India, sparking an amusing online frenzy. Social media users were quick to point out the generous perks offered by this criminal network. This well-organised gang, reportedly led by the Jharkhand-based mastermind, Manoj Mandal (35), had a truly business-like approach to crime. His two partners, Karan Kumar (19) and his 15-year-old brother were arrested near the Gorakhpur railway station on a Friday night. Police recovered 44 mobile phones, valued at Rs 10 lakh, from their possession. related stories Interestingly, the police report revealed that Manoj had four criminal cases against him, while Karan had two. As for the minor, authorities were in the process of verifying his criminal history, according to the TOI. Gorakhpur GRP SP Sandeep Kumar Meena spoke about the gangs operations, quoting that Manoj had been paying Rs 15,000 per month to each member, alongside free food and accommodation for outstation jobs. Those who completed small targets were inducted into the gang," Meena reportedly stated. The gangs operations were smooth and well-planned, like a corporate business, with Manoj hunting for young recruits in his village of Sahebganj who were in need of money. According to police officials, members were well-dressed and fluent in Hindi, so they blended seamlessly into public transport and marketplaces without drawing any suspicion. Manoj reportedly trained his recruits for three months, assigning them smaller targets to test their skills. Once they successfully completed these tasks, they were brought into the fold, receiving a salary and being given bigger assignments. The gangs main targets were the bustling markets and railway stations in Gorakhpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Maharajganj and Kushinagar. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Their operation was simple but effective: stealing mobile phones from unsuspecting people in public places. The stolen phones were then handed over to a larger cartel, which smuggled them across the border to Bangladesh and Nepal. The gang was able to operate for a week before their luck ran out. They were tracked down through footage from over 200 CCTV cameras, which helped police trace their movements and bring their operation to a halt. Location : Delhi, India First Published: December 31, 2024, 14:06 IST Brazilian Woman Kills 3 With Arsenic-Laced Christmas Cake: Has A Peppery Taste But Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 15:01 IST Terezinha Silva dos Anjos, from Torres in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, added arsenic to the cake she prepared and three women died after eating the cake in a family get-together. The woman who baked the cake, along with a 10-year-old girl who also ate it, remain in hospital. A 61-year-old woman in Brazil killed three by putting arsenic in a cake which she made for Christmas. Terezinha Silva dos Anjos, from Torres in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, added arsenic to the cake she prepared and three women- 43-year-old Tatiana Denize Silva dos Anjos, 58-year-old Maida Berenice Flores da Silva and 65-year-old Neuza Denize Silva dos Anjos died after eating the cake in a family get-together. The woman who baked the cake, along with a 10-year-old girl who also ate it, remain in hospital. Police said that autopsy results revealed that all three victims had arsenic in their bodies. The womans husband also died in September this year from arsenic poisoning which has prompted the police to investigate whether his death was linked to this incident. Police initially believed that he died of foodborne illness. related stories Upon searching the womans house, police found expired products, including a bottle of medication containing a white liquid. The bottle is now being analyzed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Police also said, as per Brazilian broadcasters, that the woman who baked the cake is the only one believed to have eaten two slices of the same and her tests returned the highest levels of arsenic. Police chief Marcos Vinicius Veloso said some of the family members complained that the cake had a peppery" taste. Arsenic is a metallic element which is highly toxic in its inorganic form and is classified as a category one carcinogen by the EU. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), people can be exposed to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic through drinking contaminated water or using it in food preparation, as well as irrigation of crops, industrial processes and smoking. Location : Brazil First Published: December 31, 2024, 15:01 IST Cant Let Social Media Owners Decide: Scholz Attacks Musk For Meddling In German Polls Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 08:08 IST The German government on Monday accused tech billionaire Elon Musk of trying to influence its upcoming election with a guest opinion piece for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper German chancellor Olaf Scholz. (AFP) German chancellor Olaf Scholz has urged voters not to let owners of social media channels" decide next years snap election. His comment comes after tech billionaire Elon Musk endorsed the far-right party Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD) via an opinion piece in a German daily and various X posts. In a New Years Eve address recorded for television and released ahead of its broadcast on Tuesday, Chancellor Scholz stated that the future direction of Germany would be determined solely by its citizens following the general election on February 23. related stories It will not be decided by the owners of social media platforms," Scholz asserted regarding the countrys future. He remarked, In our discussions, it might sometimes seem that the more extreme an opinion is, the more attention it receives." However, he emphasized that the future of German society would depend on the vast majority of reasonable and decent people." While not naming Musk or his platform, X, directly, Scholz called on Germans to resist manipulation and defend their democracy. As is customary on New Years Eve, we make wishes," he said. My wish is that we do not allow ourselves to be pitted against each other." Scholz also highlighted the spread of disinformation on social media following the Christmas market attack in Magdeburg on December 20, in which five people were killed and over 200 injured. The attack was reportedly carried out by a Saudi-born assailant with far-right views. Many of these rumors and speculations have since been debunked," he said. Such actions divide and weaken us, which is harmful to our country." German Govt Slams Musk The German government on Monday accused Musk, who owns social media platform X and is CEO of Tesla, opens new tab and SpaceX, of trying to influence the upcoming election with a guest opinion piece for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Musk, the worlds richest person, spent more than $250 million to help Trump get elected and has been tasked by Trump to prune the federal budget as a special adviser. Musk endorsed the AfD as Germanys last hope in the piece that prompted the commentary editor to resign in protest, praising the anti-establishment, anti-immigrant partys approach to regulation, taxes and market deregulation. First Published: December 31, 2024, 08:07 IST 71 Killed As Overloaded Truck Plunges Into River In Southern Ethiopia Published By : Reuters Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:30 IST At least 71 people died when an overloaded truck plunged into a river in Ethiopia's Sidama region. Many of the victims were returning from a wedding ceremony. Mourners stand next to a wrecked Isuzu truck after it fell off a bridge in Bona village of Sidama Regional State in Ethiopia (Photo: Reuters) At least 71 people died in Ethiopia when a truck packed with passengers plunged into a river, according to the spokesperson for the southern Sidama regional government and a statement. The accident occurred in the Bona district, the regional communication bureau said in a statement issued late on Sunday. related stories Wosenyeleh Simion, spokesperson for the Sidama regional government, told Reuters on Monday at least 71 people had died, including 68 males and 3 females. Five are in a critical condition and taking treatment at Bona General Hospital," he said. In a statement late on Sunday the regional communication bureau had given the death toll as 60. Wosenyeleh said the truck had missed a bridge and fell into a river and that the road had many bends. Some of the passengers were returning from a wedding ceremony and some families had lost multiple members, he said, adding traffic police in the region had reported the truck was overloaded, which likely caused the accident. The state-run Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) also reported that the passengers were travelling to a wedding when the accident occurred on Sunday. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Deadly traffic accidents are common in Ethiopia, where driving standards are poor and many vehicles are badly maintained. At least 38 people, mostly students, were killed in 2018 when a bus plunged into a ravine in Ethiopias mountainous north. Location : Ethiopia First Published: December 31, 2024, 13:30 IST 'Racism Is Still Alive': Indian-American Congressman Condemns Hinduphobia Amid H-1B Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 11:09 IST Several of Trumps supporters and immigration hardliners have been increasingly pushing for scrapping the H-1B visa programme amid debate over immigration Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar praised Donald Trump after his unprecedented election victory. (PTI/File) Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar has introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hinduphobia" as the row over the H1-B visa system, which grants highly skilled foreign workers the ability to work in the United States, grew amid the immigration debate. He also voiced concerns against racism, saying racism in America was still alive and well and people must stand up to it together. related stories Taking to X, he wrote, Just read the replies to any recent post that includes H-1B" to see the deplorable rhetoric targeting Indian Americans. Thats why I introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning all Hinduphobia." Racism in America is still alive and well, and we must stand up to it together.Just read the replies to any recent post that includes H-1B" to see the deplorable rhetoric targeting Indian Americans. Thats why I introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning all Hinduphobia. Congressman Shri Thanedar (@RepShriThanedar) December 30, 2024 What is H-1B visa And What Is The Row? The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The tech industry has long called for more H-1B visas to attract highly skilled workers to the US. President-elect Donald Trumps first administration restricted the programme in 2020, arguing that it allows businesses to replace Americans with lower-paid foreign workers. Several of Trumps supporters and immigration hardliners have been increasingly pushing for scrapping the H-1B visa programme amid debate over immigration. The debate sparked when Laura Loomer, a right-wing influencer, criticised Trumps selection of Indian-American entrepreneur Sriram Krishnan as an adviser on artificial intelligence policy in his coming administration. Krishnan favours the ability to bring more skilled immigrants into the US. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Loomer declared the stance to be not America First policy" and said the tech executives who have aligned themselves with Trump were doing so to enrich themselves. The debate intensified when Ramaswamy criticised American culture for promoting mediocrity instead of focusing on academic excellence and success on the basis of merit. First Published: December 31, 2024, 09:46 IST Video: Israel Intercepts Missile From Yemen Hours After Warning Houthi Militants To Halt Attacks Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:03 IST Israel intercepted a missile launched from Yemen by Houthi rebels on December 30, 2024, before it entered Israeli airspace. No casualties were reported. Israeli security forces patrol the scene where fragments of a Huthi ballistic missile launched from Yemen at Israel crashed (Photo: AFP) Israel on Monday intercepted a missile launched from Yemen before it crossed into the countrys territory. There were no reports of any casualties in the attack, Israels emergency service provider, Magen David Adom was quoted by news agency AFP as saying. According to The Times of Israel, the missile was intercepted before it crossed into Israeli airspace, and sirens sounded across the centre of the country shortly after 11.00 pm (local time) due to protocol for fear of falling debris. related stories The missile launch also caused brief interruptions at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, the Ynet news site reported, with arrivals and departures briefly halted due to fears of falling debris. This came hours after Israels ambassador to the United Nations issued what he called a final warning to Yemens Iran-backed Houthi militants to halt their missile attacks on Israel, saying they risked the same miserable fate" as Hamas, Hezbollah and Syrias Bashar al-Assad if they persisted. The ambassador, Danny Danon, also warned Tehran that Israel can strike any target in the Middle East, including Iran. He added that Israel would not tolerate attacks by Iranian proxies. In an X post, the Israel Defense Forces wrote, Millions across Israel are currently running to shelter due to a projectile from Yemen". Millions across Israel are currently running to shelter due to a projectile from Yemen pic.twitter.com/OfutchKpAP Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 30, 2024 Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago in central Israel, a missile launched from Yemen was intercepted by the IAF (air force) prior to crossing into Israeli territory," the Israeli military said in a statement. Videos widely shared on social media claimed to show a ballistic missile launched at Israel from Yemen". #BREAKINGA ballistic missile launched at Israel from Yemen was successfully intercepted by Israeli air defenses. IDF Statement pic.twitter.com/PZonklhVzg Resistance War News (@ResistanceWar1) December 31, 2024 Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been firing missiles and drones at Israel and ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in what they describe as solidarity with Palestinians since the war in the Gaza Strip broke out in October of last year. In recent weeks, they have claimed to have fired several missiles at Israel, triggering retaliatory strikes from Israel targeting the rebels strategic assets and infrastructure. The Huthis have controlled large parts of Yemen since seizing Sanaa and ousting the government in 2014. They have stepped up their attacks since Novembers ceasefire between Israel and another Iran-backed group, Hezbollah in Lebanon. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On December 28, Israel intercepted a similar missile launched from Yemen. Israel has also struck Yemen, including targeting Sanaas international airport on December 26. First Published: December 31, 2024, 10:51 IST 'Major Cybersecurity Incident': China 'State-sponsored' Actor Hacked US Treasury Workstations Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 07:30 IST The breach occurred in early December when hackers compromised a third-party cybersecurity service provider to manage access to the unclassified documents, said US officials. Treasury contacted the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency after it was alerted of the situation by its provider BeyondTrust, and has been working with law enforcement partners to ascertain the impact. (Representative image: AP) A China state-sponsored" actor infiltrated the US Treasury Department workstations and got remote access of some of the workstations along with some unclassified documents earlier this month, according to multiple US media outlets. The hackers compromised third-party cybersecurity service provider BeyondTrust and managed access to the unclassified documents. The US officials added that the breach occurred in early December and was made public in a letter penned by the Treasury Department to lawmakers notifying them of the incident. related stories The US agency has described the breach as a major incident" and said it had been working with the FBI and other investigating agencies to probe the case. The compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline and there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information," the departments spokesperson said. Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor," the Treasury added in its letter to the leadership of the Senate Banking Committee. Based on Treasury policy, intrusions attributed to advanced persistent threat actors are considered a major cybersecurity incident," Aditi Hardikar, assistant secretary for management at the US Treasury, wrote in the letter. An APT, or Advanced Persistent Threat, is a type of cyberattack in which an intruder gains and maintains unauthorised access to a target system, often remaining undetected for an extended period. The department did not provide further details on what was affected by the breach but said more information would be released in a supplemental report at a later date. Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds," the Treasury spokesperson added. The official said that the department would continue working to protect the US financial system from threats. Alarm Over Hacks In recent years, many countries, including the United States, have raised alarm over Chinese-government-backed hacking activities targeting their governments, militaries and businesses. Beijing has countered the allegations and has previously said that it opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyberattacks threatening systems worldwide. In September, the US Justice Department said it had neutralised a cyber-attack network that affected 200,000 devices worldwide, alleging it was run by hackers backed by the Chinese government. In February, US authorities also said they had dismantled a network of hackers known as Volt Typhoon." The group was said to be targeting key public sector infrastructure like water treatment plants and transportation systems at the behest of China. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In 2023, tech giant Microsoft said Chinese-based hackers seeking intelligence information breached the email accounts of a number of US government agencies. The group, Storm-0558, had breached email accounts at approximately 25 organizations and government agencies. Accounts belonging to the State Department and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo were among those hacked in that breach. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: December 31, 2024, 06:34 IST Missing Kerala Student Found Dead In Scotland River, Family Says No Signs Of Assault Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:18 IST Santra Saju completed her schooling in the UAE and got her degree from Kochi before moving to Scotland for higher education. Santra Saju was a postgraduate student of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University in Scotlands capital Edinburgh. Santra Saju, a student from Kerala was found dead in a river in Scotland after she was reported missing earlier this month. The family of the 22-year-old said that the countrys police informed them there were no signs of assault on the body. Nothing suspicious was found on CCTV, they said. Santra Saju was a postgraduate student of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University in Scotlands capital Edinburgh. She had joined the university last year and was reported as having gone missing on December 6. The police released a CCTV clip in which Santra Saju was last seen at an Asda supermarket in the Almondvale area of Livingston town. related stories The police said in a statement, Around 11.55 am on Friday, December 27, 2024, police were made aware of a body found in the water near Newbridge. Formal identification has still to take place. However, the family of Santra Saju, 22, has been informed." Santra Saju is the only child of Saju and Ancy from Perumbavoor in Keralas Ernakulam district. She completed her schooling in the UAE and got her degree from Kochi before moving to Scotland for higher education. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A relative told Indian Express, We were informed about the recovery of the body from a river that flows through a park opposite the place where she lived. There are no signs of any criminal assault on the body. Police have examined CCTV footage and found nothing suspicious." We have no complaints about the police investigation. They had a team that had probed vigorously right from the day she went missing. They had kept the family updated about the probe," the relative said as per the outlet. Location : United Kingdom (UK) First Published: December 31, 2024, 13:14 IST Muhammad Yunus-Led Bangladesh Govt To Announce Proclamation Of July Uprising Published By : PTI Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 08:11 IST The proclamation will be prepared with the participation and consensus of all and presented before the nation, according to a top Bangladeshi official. Chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus. (File image: AFP) Bangladeshs interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has announced that it has decided to prepare a proclamation of July uprising", a day after it distanced itself from a proposed declaration with an identical title by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to an upheaval four months ago. We hope within few days the proclamation will be prepared with the participation and consensus of all and presented before the nation," Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, told reporters in a midnight press conference. related stories Addressing reporters in front of Yunus official Jamuna residence, Alam said the declaration would be based on the views of all participating students, political parties, and stakeholders, including the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas Awami League regime on August 5. Alam said the government took the initiative to prepare the proposed charter to consolidate the peoples unity, anti-fascist spirit and desire for state reform developed through the July uprising". The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement along with the National Citizens Committee, another grouping led by the students, two days ago in a surprise development said it would announce the proclamation of the July uprising on Tuesday afternoon at Dhakas Central Shaheed Minar. But soon after the governments midnight announcement, the students platform hurriedly called an emergency meeting and nearly two hours later told newsmen that instead of the proclamation they would rather stage a march for unity" at the same venue and time. The Mujibist 72 constitution will be buried (in the proclamation) in the very place where the one-point declaration was made during the July uprising," the platforms convener Hasnat Abdullah told a press conference on December 29. Abdullah at that time said that Indian aggression was initiated through the principles of the 1972 constitution (and) the proclamation will make it clear how the Mujibist constitution destroyed the aspirations of the people and exactly how we want to replace it". The platform leader said the proclamation was expected to declare irrelevant" the deposed premiers Nazi Awami League" in Bangladesh as well. Anti-Discrimination Students Movement leader and chief organiser of the National Citizens Committee Sarjis Alam told the same press conference that we believe the way our revolution was embraced by all anti-fascists; this proclamation will also contain everyones hopes and aspirations". The 1972 constitution was framed a year after the emergence of independent Bangladesh by representatives elected in the 1970 elections in line with their mandate" as constitute assembly" members with Awami League under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gaining an absolute majority. The party won 160 of the 162 general seats and all seven womens seats in then-East Pakistan. However, Pakistans then-military junta under General Yahya Khan eventually launched a sudden army crackdown leading to the Liberation War. The interim government visibly distanced itself from the proclamation" with Yunus press secretary saying the government has nothing to do with it" and wants see it (proclamation) as private initiative". Awami League has not been seen in the public sphere since the August 5 ouster of the regime as many of its leaders were arrested or are on the run at home and abroad, limiting their activities on social media platforms occasionally. But some leaders of ex-premier Khaleda Zias BNP sharply reacted to the proposal with its highest policy-making standing committee member Mirza Abbas saying the constitution was written in 1972 at the cost of the blood of 3 million martyrs. As your seniors, we feel disappointed when you (Student Movement leaders) say the constitution should be buried. If there is anything bad in the constitution, it can be amended," he told reporters. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Abbas said, When you (student leaders) say things like this, it sounds fascist" as fascists used to say, we will bury them, kill them, and cut them off". The students platform and different political groups including BNP often dub the ousted regime as fascist". Location : Bangladesh First Published: December 31, 2024, 08:11 IST 'One Can Stop China's 'Reunification' With Taiwan': Xi Jinping In His New Year Message Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 22:21 IST China regards democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory. But Taiwans government rejects Beijings claims and says only its people can decide their future Chinese President Xi Jinping. (Image: Reuters) No one can stop Chinas "reunification" with Taiwan, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his New Years speech on Tuesday, laying down a clear warning to what Beijing regards as pro-independence forces within and outside of the island of 23 million people. In the past year, Beijing has stepped up military pressure near Taiwan, sending warships and planes almost daily into the waters and air space around the island in what Taiwanese officials view as a creeping effort to "normalise" Chinas military presence. related stories China regards democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory. But Taiwans government rejects Beijings claims and says only its people can decide their future and Beijing ought to respect the choice of the Taiwanese people. "The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds, and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification," Xi said in a speech televised on Chinas state broadcaster CCTV. In his New Years speech last year, Xi said Chinas "reunification" with Taiwan is inevitable, and that people on both sides "should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." Tensions have remained high throughout the year in the sensitive Taiwan Strait, especially after Lai Ching-te, deemed a "separatist" by Beijing, became the islands latest president in May. Earlier this month, China staged a large massing of naval forces around Taiwan and in the East and South China Seas after Lai stopped over in Hawaii and the U.S. territory of Guam on a Pacific trip criticised by Beijing. China, which never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, conducted two rounds of war games around the island this year, saying they were warnings against "separatist acts" and vowed to take further actions if needed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, allowed by the Taiwan Relations Act, have also continued to strain Beijings ties with Washington. China has regularly warned the U.S. against any military ties with Taiwan, and slapped sanctions on military suppliers and their executives. Location : Beijing, China First Published: December 31, 2024, 22:14 IST OpenAI Whistleblower Suchir Balajis Mother Speaks Out: Elon Musk Believes Its A Murder Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Mallika Soni Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:44 IST Suchir Balaji's mother Poornima Rao said that following the death of her son, the medical examiner did not ask her about his mental state. Suchir Balaji was found dead in his San Francisco apartment earlier this month. The mother of Suchir Balaji, a 26-year-old researcher at OpenAI, said that Elon Musk believes that her sons death is a murder as she reiterated that police have not done any investigation in the case. Balaji was found dead in his San Francisco apartment earlier this month. Lobbying is very powerful in San Francisco," Poornima Rao told CNN-News18. Police said that no evidence of foul play was found during the initial investigation". The San Francisco Chief Medical Examiners Office determined Suchir Balajis death a suicide but the grieving family hired a private investigator and conducted a second autopsy, which they claim contradicts the polices version. Suchir Balaji worked at OpenAI, the company which created ChatGPT. related stories Talking to CNN-News18, Poornima Rao said that following the death of her son, the medical examiner did not ask her about his mental state. Moreover, she said that there were signs of searching in the bedroom, blood spots near the sink and his desktop was ransacked." Suchir Balajis computer was on for three days and temp data was deleted from his computer," she claimed. She added, No suicide note was found and family could not see the body. The CCTV footage was also not shared with the family." Earlier in a post on social media, Poornima Rao expressed her worries and said that private autopsy doesnt confirm cause of death stated by police." Calling for intervention from US authorities, she tagged Elon Musk, American biotech entrepreneur and politician Vivek Ramaswamy and Gavin Newsom Governor of California. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Poornima Rao also told CNN-News18 that Suchir Balaji was on a vacation, He was very happy. There was nothing disturbing." Elon Musk said that he also believed the circumstances didnt point to the suicide of Suchir Balaji. He said, This doesnt seem like a suicide." Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:38 IST Quad Foreign Ministers Vow To Work Vigorously Towards Free And Stable Indo-Pacific Published By : PTI Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:30 IST The foreign ministers of the member nations of Quad made the pledge in a joint statement commemorating the 20th anniversary of "Quad cooperation". S Jaishankar, Yoko Kamikawa, Penny Wong, and Antony Blinken, pose for a photograph prior to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) ministerial meeting in Tokyo, Japan, 29 July 2024. AP Photo India and other Quad member nations on Tuesday reaffirmed the groupings steadfast commitment to work towards a free, open and peaceful Indo-Pacific amid Chinas increasing military muscle-flexing in the region. The foreign ministers of the member nations of the grouping made the pledge in a joint statement commemorating the 20th anniversary of Quad cooperation". related stories India, the US, Australia and Japan came together 20 years ago to extend assistance in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and that coalition subsequently took form of the Quad. In the last few years, the Quad has rolled out a number of initiatives addressing some of the most pressing needs and challenges of the Indo-Pacific region, including in areas of maritime security, infrastructure and connectivity. India is scheduled to host the next Quad Summit that is likely to take place in the second half of 2025. The foreign ministers of the four nations said the Quad will work together in responding to the future needs of the Indo-Pacific. As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions," the joint statement said. The Quad foreign ministers also talked about the centrality of 10-nation grouping Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the Indo-Pacific. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEANs centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific," the ministers said. We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the regions premier organisation," they said. The Quad foreign ministers also referred to the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami and how the four countries came together to respond to the challenges. The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries," they said. Together our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe." In the statement, the ministers further noted that the foundational commitment of the four nations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remained strong. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region," they said. In 2024, our four countries collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific and we continue to build on those efforts to identify new ways to respond rapidly to humanitarian crises and disasters," they added. The ministers also briefly highlighted the Quads focus on addressing complex challenges in the Indo-Pacific. What began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of our region," the statement noted. It said the Quad countries now work together and with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address complex challenges from fighting climate change, cancer and pandemics, to bolstering quality infrastructure, counter-terrorism efforts, critical and emerging technologies, and cyber security. Since 2021, the leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quads positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific," the ministers said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In the last Quad summit held in Wilmington in the US, top leaders of the grouping unveiled major steps to expand maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. They also called for rules-based global order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations. First Published: December 31, 2024, 13:30 IST Setback For Trump As US Court Upholds Sexual Abuse Verdict, Asks Him To Pay USD 5 Million Published By : AFP Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 07:03 IST Trump denied the allegations and appealed the verdict on the grounds that two other women who said Trump had sexually assaulted them too should not have been allowed to testify A New York jury found after a nine-day civil trial last year that the former president had sexually abused Carroll at a Manhattan department store in 1996. (AP image) A federal appeals court on Monday upheld a jury verdict ordering President-elect Donald Trump to pay $5 million for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll. A New York jury found after a nine-day civil trial last year that the former president had sexually abused Carroll at a Manhattan department store in 1996. related stories Trump was ordered to pay $2 million for sexual abuse and another $3 million for defaming Carroll, a former advice columnist for Elle magazine. Trump denied the allegations and appealed the verdict on the grounds that two other women who said Trump had sexually assaulted them too should not have been allowed to testify. The three-judge panel of the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed. We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings," they said. Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial." Carroll was awarded $83 million by another jury in a separate case she brought against Trump. He has appealed that verdict and Steven Cheung, a Trump spokesman, said the Republican would lodge a further appeal against the $5 million damages awarded in the sexual abuse and defamation case. The American People have re-elected President Trump with an overwhelming mandate," Cheung said in a statement. They demand an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system and a swift dismissal of all of the Witch Hunts, including the Democrat-funded Carroll Hoax, which will continue to be appealed," he said. Two federal cases brought against Trump by special counsel Jack Smith have been dismissed since he won the November 5 presidential election. Trump was accused of mishandling classified documents after leaving the White House and seeking to overturn the results of the 2020 election but Smith dropped the cases under a Justice Department policy of not prosecuting a sitting president. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Trump was convicted in New York in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. Judge Juan Merchan recently rejected a bid by the president-elect to have his conviction thrown out but has postponed sentencing indefinitely. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: December 31, 2024, 07:02 IST US Strikes Huthi Targets In Yemen Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 21:31 IST It said US Navy and Air Force aircraft had destroyed "seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea A smoke cloud billows after an air strike on Yemen's Huthi-held capital Sanaa (AFP) The US military said Tuesday its forces had hit Huthi targets in Yemens capital that the Iran-backed rebels used to attack American warships and commercial vessels. The attacks began Monday and were carried out by US Navy ships and aircraft that also struck Huthi-controlled coastal regions of Yemen, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. related stories It also said US Navy and Air Force aircraft had destroyed seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea," using an acronym for unmanned aerial drones. There were no injuries or damage to US personnel or equipment in either incident," it said. One witness in Yemens Huthi-controlled capital Sanaa reported several strikes in different locations. Another reported raids on Sanaa on the Defense Ministry and having heard a powerful explosion. Huthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam called the strikes an American aggression" and a blatant violation of the sovereignty of an independent state and a blatant support for Israel." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The rebels said earlier Tuesday that they had fired two missiles at Israel, hours after the Israeli military said it had intercepted a projectile launched from the country. The Huthis control much of war-torn Yemen and have been firing missiles and drones at Israel, and at ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Location : Yemen First Published: December 31, 2024, 21:31 IST Who Is Nimisha Priya, Indian Nurse On Death Row For Murder In Yemen Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 12:21 IST Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi has sanctioned the death sentence for the Indian nurse, who has been in jail since 2017 on murder charges. Nimisha Priya hails from Kerala's Palakkad district | File Image Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kerala, has been sentenced to death in Yemen in a high-profile case related to the murder of a Yemeni national, Talal Abdo Mahdi. Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi has sanctioned the death sentence for the Indian nurse, who has been in jail since 2017 on murder charges. The case has garnered significant attention in India, with the Centre stepping in to ensure she receives all possible assistance. related stories According to Yemeni media reports, the death sentence was approved by President Rashad al-Alimi this week, and the execution is scheduled to take place in a month. She was convicted of killing Mahdi in July 2017. Who Is Nimisha Priya Priya, who hails from Keralas Palakkad district, moved to Yemen in 2008 after completing her nursing training program. She took the move to support her daily wage labourer parents, according to reports. Initially, she worked day and night in several hospitals in Yemen and then reached a decision to open her own clinic. She came in contact with Talal Abdo Mahdi in 2014 when he promised to assist her in launching her clinic in Yemen, a wish she had for long. According to Yemeni business law, a foreigner is required to partner with a local to launch a business in the Middle East country. They partnered and agreed on terms to open the clinic, in accordance with the law. Crime And Backstory She went on to start her clinic in 2015 with Mahdi, but soon differences cropped up between them. She had accused Mahdi of abuse and torture. He reportedly even took her passport to ensure she did not leave Yemen. She registered a police complaint against Mahdi, leading to his arrest in 2016. However, he was set free sometime later, according to local media reports. The dispute turned tragic when the duo engaged in a dispute in 2017. Desperate to recover her passport and move back to India, she sought the help of a local jail warden, who suggested using sedatives to incapacitate Mahdi. Acting on the suggestion, she injected him with sedatives in an attempt to retrieve her passport from his possession. However, he died of an overdose, leading to her arrest and conviction in the case. Nimishas 57-year-old mother, Prema Kumari, had reached Yemens capital Sanaa earlier this year and has been staying there to secure a waiver of the death penalty and negotiate the blood money with the victims family, reported The New Indian Express. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Her mother, Prema Kumari, had even approached the Yemini Supreme Court against the death sentence, but the appeal was rejected in 2023. In 2018, a Yemeni trial court sentenced Priya to death, a verdict later upheld by the Yemeni Supreme Court in 2023. Recently, President Rashad al-Alimis approval of the death sentence has intensified the urgency of the situation. Location : Yemen First Published: December 31, 2024, 12:21 IST Year Ender 2024: World's Biggest Crisis And Conflicts Written By : News18.com Last Updated: December 31, 2024, 13:48 IST In 2024, the world saw an increased number of conflicts, which also included the already running Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars. Middle East tensions further heightened the global instability. The Middle East tensions have specifically taken a rise in the year 2024 (Photo: AP) The world witnessed a series of conflicts in the year 2024, that challenged geopolitical landscapes and global stability. With the ongoing Russia- -Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas wars, the year 2024 saw an escalation of Middle-East tensions, with Israel dropping bombs on Lebanon and killing Hezbollah fighters. Meanwhile, Iran warned the United States to keep its military forces out of Israel, thus giving rise to tensions between the two countries. Additionally, in one of the most recent conflicts, the world saw a massive crisis shaping up in Bangladesh, with Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country to India. Later, the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu monk, fuelled protests against Hindu atrocities in the country. related stories Here are the key conflicts that defined the year, tracing their evolution and impact on the global stage. RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT Since Russias all-out invasion of its smaller neighbour on February 24, 2022, Europes biggest armed conflict since World War II has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides. Thousands of Ukrainian civilians have been killed in the fighting. Others have lost their family, their homes and their livelihoods. Nearly three years into the war, the Russian military has repeatedly used missiles, drones and artillery to blast civilian targets across Ukraine with devastating consequences. The loss of homes and possessions snatched away in the blink of an eye, is traumatic. In 2024, hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians evacuated and migrated abroad. Those who stayed often had to improvise. That sometimes meant digging mass graves, such as in the besieged port city of Mariupol in 2022 where heavy Russian shelling prevented proper burials and brought despair. The dreadful toll of war is illustrated in funerals held for soldiers and civilians, including children, and the grief of those attending them. ISRAEL-GAZA CONFLICT Israels war with Hamas reached its one-year mark in October 2024. However, with many still reeling from Hamass October 7 attack, hostages remaining in captivity and a new front of war with Hezbollah in the north, many Israelis feel depressed, despondent and angry as the war stretches into its second year. Uncertainty over the future has cast a pall over virtually every part of daily life, even as people try to maintain a sense of normalcy. Hamass attack in which some 1,200 people were killed and 250 kidnapped shattered Israeliss sense of security and stability in their homeland. Many have been rattled by the wars evolution. Nearly 100 hostages remain in Gaza, with less than 70 believed to be alive. Israelis have experienced attacks missiles from Iran and Hezbollah, explosive drones from Yemen, fatal shootings and stabbings as the region braces for further escalation. Theyve watched as Israel is accused of committing war crimes and genocide in Gaza and becomes increasingly isolated internationally. ISRAEL-YEMEN CONFLICT Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who control Sanaa and much of the countrys north, have gone after Israel since it started attacking Gaza following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Gazas Hamas militants on southern Israel. The Houthis have attacked ships in the Red Sea, disrupting one of the worlds main maritime routes, and recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Israel. Off late, the Israeli Air Force reported intercepting yet another missile from Yemen, as sirens woke Israelis around Jerusalem and the Dead Sea. According to the Associated Press, Yemen is the Arab worlds poorest nation and has been engulfed in a 10-year civil war between the Houthi rebels, who control Sanaa and much of the countrys north, and the internationally recognized government forces in the south. ISRAEL-LEBANON CONFLICT Hezbollah began striking Israel almost immediately after Hamass October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the Israel-Hamas war. In the days after the attack, Israels air force hit targets across Lebanon, killing thousands. Hezbollahs leader, Hassan Nasrallah, was assassinated when Israel dropped bombs on his bunker. Especially since late September, Israel has dramatically escalated its bombardment of Lebanon, vowing to cripple the militant group Hezbollah and end its barrages into Israel. Over the past year, more than 3,500 people have been killed in Lebanon by Israeli fire 80 per cent of them in the past month Lebanons Health Ministry said. By November, the war between Israel and Hezbollah, a byproduct of the deadly attack by Hamas militants in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, ended with a ceasefire. More than 45,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas militants, AP quoted health officials as saying. ISRAEL-IRAN CONFLICT Iran has already launched two direct attacks against Israel this year, which has pushed the wider Middle East closer to a broader conflict. Israel is already battling the Iran-backed militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The fight against Hezbollah has weakened the group but has also taken a heavy toll on southern Lebanon and other parts of the country. United Nations agencies estimate that Israels ground invasion and bombardment of Lebanon has displaced 1.4 million people. Residents of Israels northern communities near Lebanon, roughly 60,000 people, have also been displaced for more than a year. As Israel has launched successful airstrikes openly inside of Iran, the latters longtime stalwart ally and client in Syria, President Bashar Assad, is gone. THE SYRIAN CONFLICT The fall of Bashar Assad took many by surprise as tens of thousands of soldiers and members of security services failed to stop the advancing insurgents. Now in control of the country, and Assad in exile in Russia, the new authorities are investigating atrocities by Assads forces, mass graves and an array of prisons run by the military, intelligence and security agencies notorious for systematic torture, mass executions and brutal conditions. Syrias nearly 14-year-old civil war fragmented the country, crumbled the economy and created fertile ground for the production of the drug. Militias, warlords and the Assad government transformed the production of Captagon from a small-scale operation run by criminal groups into a billion-dollar industrial revenue stream. The recent ousting of Assad has disrupted these networks and has given a closer look at its operations revealing the workings of a war economy that sustained Assads power over Syria. Experts say the change in Syria might create an opportunity to dismantle the Captagon industry. US-IRAN TENSIONS For more than a year, the Houthis, controlling northern Yemen, have attacked ships in the Red Sea, severely disrupting a major trade route, and have targeted Israel with drones and missiles. The United States and Britain have also retaliated against the Houthis to protect international waterways. In 2021, the Trump administration labelled the Houthis a terrorist organisation. The Biden administration lifted the designation weeks later to make it easier for humanitarian aid to enter Yemen. However, early this year, the State Department announced that it was reimposing the label in view of the Houthi attacks on ships. Months after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, the Houthis, in solidarity with Hamas, said they would target any ship travelling to or leaving Israel and said they had launched drones and missiles at Israel. But the Houthi criteria for attacking ships quickly expanded to include vessels with direct or indirect links to Israel or past visits to Israeli ports, then also to ships with ties to the United States or Britain, and the Houthis have since broadened the category multiple times. The Houthis have launched more than 130 attacks with drones and missiles on vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, according to Armed Conflict Location and Event Data, a nonprofit group that tracks the strikes. IRAN-PAKISTAN CONFLICT In January 2024, unprecedented cross-border strikes between Iran and Pakistan raised concerns that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East were expanding eastwards. In July this year, the world witnessed missile strikes between Iran and Pakistan, resulting in casualties on both sides. Later, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced that it had stopped all its flights from using Iranian airspace following Irans missile attack on Israel. Iran and Pakistan share a volatile border, stretching about 900 kilometres, and have long fought Baloch terrorists in the region. The Baloch people reside at the convergence of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. Historically, they have demonstrated a strong inclination towards independence, harbouring resentment for being governed by both Islamabad and Tehran. Terrorism has persisted in the porous border region for decades. PAKISTAN-AFGHANISTAN CONFLICT Pakistani officials have accused the Taliban of not doing enough to combat cross-border militant activity, a charge the Taliban government denies, saying it does not allow anyone to carry out attacks against any country from its soil. Earlier this year, Pakistan witnessed a surge in militant violence in recent months, mostly blamed on Pakistani Taliban and insurgents targeting security forces in Pakistan and neighbouring Iran. Of late, Pakistan launched an operation to destroy a training facility and kill insurgents in Afghanistans eastern Paktika province. The strikes killed dozens of people, mostly women and children. Comments from the Taliban Defense Ministry confirmed that its forces targeted Pakistani points that served as centres and hideouts for malicious elements and their supporters who organised and coordinated attacks in Afghanistan". BANGLADESH TENSIONS Following Sheikh Hasinas ouster, minorities and particularly Hindus have reported widespread attacks in the Muslim-majority nation of Bangladesh. However, the country says the reports are widely exaggerated. The protesters demanded an intervention by the United Nations, carrying banners and placards that criticised the world body for not doing more to address the problems in Bangladesh. They also rejected claims by interim government officials in Bangladesh that the targeting of minorities was an internal matter. Tensions spiked over the recent arrest of a Hindu spiritual leader in Bangladesh, which is currently being run by an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. India also stopped issuing visas to Bangladeshis, except for emergency medical visas, after Hasina fled. Many Indian nationals working on infrastructure projects also left Bangladesh because of security threats. Scores of social and cultural organisations joined the protest in New Delhi a day after top Foreign Ministry officials from the two countries, Vikram Misri and Mohammad Jashim Uddin, met in Dhaka, the Bangladesh capital, to discuss their strained relations. It was the first high-level visit to Bangladesh by an Indian official since massive protests ended Hasinas 15-year rule. PAKISTAN ELECTION VIOLENCE General elections in Pakistan earlier this year were marred by militant attacks and suspension of mobile phone services, with no indication of a clear leader hours after voting closed an unusual delay compared to previous polls. Later, Shehbaz Sharif returned to power in the country. The main contest was between candidates backed by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose party won the last national election, and the Pakistan Muslim League of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, whom analysts say is backed by the powerful military. Thousands of troops were deployed on the streets in Pakistan and at polling stations across the country. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Despite the heightened security, nine people, including two children, were killed in bomb blasts, grenade attacks and shootings. At least another 26 were killed in two explosions near electoral candidates offices in the southwestern province of Balochistan. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for those attacks. First Published: December 31, 2024, 13:47 IST UPDATE Feb 20, 2025 6:25 PM CST Five New York correction officers were indicted Thursday on second-degree murder charges in the beating death of a state prison inmate. Three others were charged with manslaughter in the killing of Robert Brooks in December, and a ninth was charged with evidence tampering, the New York Times reports, accused of cleaning the area where the beating occurred in an attempt to remove bloodstains. A 10th person was removed from the indictment but is scheduled to be arraigned on a murder charge Monday, per the Times Union. All are former or current corrections officers. "Waiting a month for these charges has been incredibly hard," said Robert Brooks Jr., who attended the press conference, per the AP. "But these men must be prosecuted and convicted of the crimes they made." Dec 30, 2024 6:20 PM CST The FBI has confirmed that it is investigating the fatal beating of a state prison inmate in upstate New York. "The FBI Albany Field Office and the Department of Justice are reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of Robert L. Brooks to determine the appropriate federal response," FBI Media Coordinator Sarah Ruane said Monday, per the Utica Observer Dispatch. Gov. Kathy Hochul ordered officials to begin the process of firing 14 prison staffers after disturbing body cam footage showing corrections officers punching, kicking, and choking the handcuffed Black inmate was released. The first funeral for a former Democratic president since Lyndon B. Johnson died in early 1973 will be held on Jan. 9, which President Biden has declared a national day of mourning. Jimmy Carter's state funeral will be held at Washington National Cathedral, ABC News reports. The former president will lie in state in the US Capitol Rotunda from Jan. 7 until Jan. 9, reports the AP. The Carter Center said Monday that the invitation from Congress was "respectfully and gratefully accepted." Schedule. Carter died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. According to a schedule released by the Carter Center on Monday, a funeral procession beginning Jan. 4 will include a stop at his boyhood farm, the Washington Post reports. He will be taken to the state Capitol in Atlanta before lying in repose at the Carter Center for three days. He will then be flown to Washington, DC, where his military service will be honored with a stop at the US Navy Memorial before he is taken to the Capitol. A tugboat crew was swiftly rescued after their vessel collided with a tanker ship on the Mississippi River in Luling, Louisiana. The incident, which occurred near the Hale Boggs Memorial Bridge, prompted a prompt response from local authorities. St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne confirmed that all crew members were safely retrieved, sharing this update on social media Sunday night. The tugboat ultimately sank. The tanker was navigating upriver when it hit the tugboat, causing it to submerge. Paramedics assessed the condition of the rescued crew, with plans to transport any who required further medical attention to a hospital. Although the US Coast Guard's 8th District office dispatched personnel to provide assistance, the crew had already been saved upon their arrival. In light of the collision, the Coast Guard is evaluating potential environmental repercussions at the accident location, situated approximately 23 miles west of New Orleans. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP) In a significant political shift, Florida State Representative Hillary Cassel announced she is leaving the Democratic Party to join the Republicans. Citing a disconnect with voters and the Democratic Party's approach, Cassel expressed concerns on social media, stating, "I can no longer remain in a party that doesn't represent my values." Her change in affiliation follows state Rep. Susan Valdes from Tampa, who also transitioned to the Republican Party this month, pointing to a growing disenchantment among some Democrats. Cassel, who represents a predominantly Democratic area in Broward County, criticized her former party's approach to important issues, especially its "failure to unequivocally support Israel." Her decision bolsters the Republican supermajority in the Florida House to an 87-33 margin, further cementing Republican dominance that has persisted since 1999. Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried expressed disappointment at Cassel's move, urging instead for "leadership and self-reflection." Political analysts like University of South Florida's Susan MacManus view these party shifts as indicative of the Democrats' diminished influence in the state. Florida, once a key swing state, has veered right in recent years, making it challenging for Democrats to impact the legislative balance. This evolution reflects broader national trends and underscores the shifting political landscape in Florida and beyond. Cassel's allegiance change, mirroring broader Republican gains, underscores the deepening political realignment in a state pivotal to national elections. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP) Earlier this month, Andrew Witty, chief executive for UnitedHealth Group, penned an op-ed in the New York Times condemning the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . Now, Witty himself is in the spotlight, thanks to a new profile in the Wall Street Journal that talks about how he's steering the insurance company "through one of the worst corporate crises imaginable." A large chunk of the 60-year-old leader's task, per the Journal, is to "ease the concerns of his company's anxious 440,000 employees following Thompson's assassination, and keep its complex business humming, while also responding to a wave of outrage over health-insurance practices since the killing." Witty sent a video to staffers on Dec. 23 in which he tried to calm employees' nerves over the shooting. "The environment we find ourselves in is a complex one, not one that was ever designed by anybody," he says in the footage. A source tells the Journal that armed guards are now stationed at the company's headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota, while another says that UnitedHealth is keeping tabs on threats posted online, as some employees have already received threatening emails. "Right now, people continue to have strong feelings inside the organization, maybe nervous, maybe anxious, maybe worried about security," Witty says in the video. The Journal notes that the former pharma bigwig has had "decades navigating unusual criseshacks, sprawling frauds, even an incriminating sex tape of a top lieutenantin a storied career." A former auditor for the company who was let go in May said she'd previously "adored" Witty for his speeches on wanting to help customers. Now she's not so sure how sincere he was. "His investors, if they see a lot of mistakes, they won't trust him, and he has to make them happy," she says. The Daily Beast highlights one particularly noteworthy part of the Journal article: the fact that Witty has been "quietly" telling execs that UnitedHealth Group is set to hit financial records by year's end. More in the Journal. (More Andrew Witty stories.) Veteran ABC News reporter Aaron Brown joined CNN in 2001and his very first appearance was on the morning of Sept. 11. "Good Lord, there are no words," Brown told viewers as the South Tower of the World Trade Center came down in the terror attacks. Fans are now remembering Brown's dedicated work that day, which won him an Edward R. Murrow Award, and his long career in broadcast journalism, upon news of his death on Sunday at the age of 76, reports CNN . His cause of death is unclear. Brown started out in radio after attending the University of Minnesota, then plied his craft as a broadcast journalist for 15 years in Seattle, per ABC News. He then moved to anchor ABC's World News Now, World News Tonight Saturday, and Good Morning America's Sunday program, before working for CNN from 2001 to 2005, where he hosted NewsNight. He then served as the host for PBS' Wide Angle before taking a turn as a journalism professor at Arizona State University, per Newsweek. Brown nabbed three Emmys over his career. CNN anchor Anderson Cooper described him as "a great writer and broadcaster" who was "thoughtful, funny, and diligent," per CNN. "So many people around the world remember his unflinching coverage on September 11, 2001, and in many ways the events that followed," one of his former producers, Molly Levinson, tells ABC. "There's no one like him and he will be deeply missed." (More news anchors stories.) A fourth prisoner was repatriated from Guantanamo Bay in December, bringing the total number of detainees to 26 from what CBS News reports was a peak of 800 prisoners. The New York Times reports that Ridah Bin Saleh al Yazidi had been held in the prison since its very first day of operation, Jan. 11, 2002. The now-59-year-old Tunisian was never charged and was cleared for transfer more than a decade ago, but remained stuck there as a deal with Tunisia didn't firm up and Yazidi reportedly refused to meet with other countries that might take him, per the Times. The Pentagon said Yazidi left the base 11 months after Congress was informed a deal had finally been reached with Tunisia. No details about any arrangements or relatives there have been disclosed. The Times notes "he has apparently not seen a lawyer in nearly 20 years." There is also little known about Yazidi outside of some details from leaked US intelligence documents, including that he served time in Italy for drug-related offenses in the '80s and '90s and ended up in Afghanistan in 1999, where he attended a training camp for jihadists. He was captured along with roughly 30 other mensome thought to be Osama bin Laden's bodyguardsnear the Afghan border in December 2001. A 2007 prison assessment painted him as hostile and dangerous, noting he once threw a cup of tea at a US soldier. CNN reports he was accused of being an al-Qaeda member in a US military assessment from that year. Fourteen of the remaining detainees at Guantanamo are currently eligible for transfer. (More Guantanamo Bay stories.) A military appeals court has ruled against Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's effort to throw out the plea deals reached for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two other defendants in the 9/11 attacks, a US official said. The decision puts back on track the agreements that would have the three men plead guilty to one of the deadliest attacks ever on the United States in exchange for being spared the possibility of the death penalty, reports the AP . The military appeals court released its ruling Monday night, according to a US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Military prosecutors and defense attorneys for Mohammed, the accused mastermind of the attacks, and two co-defendants reached the plea agreements late last summer after two years of government-approved negotiations. Supporters of the plea agreement see it as a way of resolving the legally troubled case against the men at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba. Pretrial hearings for Mohammed, Walid Bin Attash, and Mustafa al-Hawsawi have been underway for more than a decade. Much of the focus of pretrial arguments has been on how torture of the men while in CIA custody in the first years after their detention may taint the overall evidence in the case. Within days of news of the plea deals, Austin issued an order saying he was nullifying them. He cited the gravity of the 9/11 attacks in saying that as defense secretary, he should decide on any plea agreements that would spare the defendants the possibility of execution. Defense lawyers said Austin had no legal authority to reject a decision already approved by the Guantanamo court's top authority and said the move amounted to unlawful interference. story continues below The military judge hearing the 9/11 case, Air Force Col. Matthew McCall, agreed that Austin lacked standing to throw out the plea bargains after they were underway. That set up the Pentagon's appeal to the military appeals court. Austin now has the option of taking his effort to the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. (A prisoner held at Guantanamo since it opened has just been released.) We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by subscribing or making a contribution. The Daily News-Miner is locally owned by the Helen E. Snedden Foundation, a 501(c)(3) Subscribe or donate A Teaneck man was charged early Tuesday with drunkenly crashing his pickup truck through a McDonalds in Bergen County and injuring one employee, authorities say. The 38-year-old motorist slammed his vehicle into the McDonalds on River Street in Hackensack at 3:20 a.m. on New Years Eve day, Hackensack Police Chief Michael Antista said. A 21-year-old employee who was inside the building was injured in the crash and transported to a local hospital, Antista said. Her injuries were not life threatening. The McDonalds was closed due to a gas leak caused by the crash, authorities said. Photos from the scene showed the front of the truck inside the fast food restaurant, surrounded by fallen bricks and broken appliances in the kitchen. Due to a gas leak caused by Tuesday's crash, the McDonald's at 343 River St. in Hackensack was deemed unsafe and was closed by authorities.Hackensack Fire Department Authorities found a gas leak after the crash and the building was deemed unsafe by the Hackensack Fire Department and the local building department. The McDonalds remained closed as of noon on Tuesday, said Hackensack Fire Captain Kurt Nemeczek. The driver was charged with driving while intoxicated and assault by auto in the fourth degree, according to Hackensack police. He was released on a summons to a responsible party, police said. A drunken motorist crashed into a Bergen County McDonald's early New Year's Eve day, police said.Hackensack Fire Department Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com. A Cape May County man was arrested after he allegedly interfered with the police investigation into the death of an unidentified woman found in a refrigerator left in a New Jersey forest. The 46-year-old man is charged with fourth degree obstruction and failure to be fingerprinted after police say he refused to provide his cell phone to investigators probing the womans death, according to two criminal compaints, one filed by New Jersey State Police and the other by the Cape May County Prosecutors Office. Cape May County prosecutors asked for the man to be detained Friday, court records show. That was one day after he was jailed after police alleged he declined to forfeit his cell phone despite being ordered to do so. The mans attorney, John Tumelty, couldnt immediately be reached by NJ Advance Media to comment Tuesday. Charges against the North Cape May man were filed days before New Jersey State Police turned to the public for help in their investigation. They released images of the tattoos found on the unidentified womans body when she was discovered in Belleplain State Forest last week. New Jersey State Police did not have any updates on the investigation when reached by NJ Advance Media for comment on Tuesday. Assistant Prosecutor Ed Shim said in court Monday that police sought the mans cell phone with a warrant because he was in the area of the forest, which spans 21,320 acres across parts of Cape May and Cumberland counties, where the body was found Dec. 22, the Press of Atlantic City reported. A judge agreed to release the man on Monday, the news report said. He was ordered to weekly check-ins with court staff and forbidden from returning to the forest during the investigation. A pre-indictment hearing is scheduled for February, according to judicial records. The man told police he was ventured into the woods Dec. 21, hiking to the fridge and taking property from inside, State Police wrote in a probable cause statement. The following day, he returned, finding the womans body inside. State Police troopers were called to the forest around 3 p.m. after the discovery. Police have not said how the woman may have died. The man was issued a judge-authorized search warrant for his phone records, ordering him to provide a passcode for police to search the device for evidence. He refused to provide the number to investigators, the probable cause statement reads. He then refused to be fingerprinted when he was brought to Cape May County jail. The man spent nine years in a Pennsylvania state prison for Ivoluntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, charges that were filed in Bucks County. He was given a five to 10-year sentence, serving it between August 2003 and October 2012, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections told NJ Advance Media. State Police on Sunday released mock-up images of two distinctive tattoos found on the womans body a koi fish on her right shoulder blade and a rose tattoo on her left ribs, from her chest to her hip. They believe she is either Caucasian or Hispanic and about 5 feet tall. Police also released images of a yoga mat and necklace recovered from the scene. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. Police found a 51-year-old man dead in Wildwood and believe ihe may have been involved in the crash of an electric bicycle, police said in a statement on Monday. Officers responded to the intersection of Magnolia and Pacific Avenues at 5:51 p.m. on Saturday to investigate a report of a man on the ground, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The initial investigation appears related to injuries sustained from an electric bicycle accident, the statement posted Monday on Facebook said. Anyone with information about the incident can call the Wildwood Police Department at contact@wildwoodpd.com or 609-522-0222. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Stephanie Loder may be reached at SLoder@njadvancemedia.com A 51-year-old Trenton man has been charged with sexually assaulting a child during a prayer service at an in-home chapel in the city, the Mercer County Prosecutors Office announced. Investigators arrested Jose Agustin-Hernandez on Sunday, five days after he allegedly walked into a prayer service at a home on Hamilton Avenue in Trenton. Hes charged with sexually assaulting a 6-year-old girl as she slept in a room, the office said in a statement. The child ran screaming from the room and alerted a family member. Detectives arrived and got a description of the assailant, then collected surveillance video from various locations near the home that led them to the suspect, the statement said. Augustin-Hernandez is charged aggravated sexual assault, criminal sexual contact and endangering the welfare of a child. He is being held in Mercer County jail pending a detention hearing. The investigation is ongoing, and the prosecutors office is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Michael Wherley or Sgt. Sherika Salmon at 609-989-6568 or mcposvu@mercercounty.org. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. Versions of this story were published in 2019 and 2020. The Paulinskill Viaduct has been a bridge to nowhere since 1978, when the last train rumbled across this majestic crossing 115 feet above the river in Warren County. Jimmy Carter was not a great president, so lets get that out of the way. Soon after he was elected in 1976, his approval rating stood at 75 percent, and within a few years, it had plummeted to 28 percent. And that was before Iran took our diplomats hostage. But no American president has commanded greater moral authority on his deathbed than this peanut farmer from Georgia. He was a good man, and that showed long before he was elected president, when he championed the cause of racial justice in the Old South, facing scorn from his white neighbors and the people he prayed with every Sunday morning. It showed, still, long after he was president, as he built homes for the poor, fought disease in Africa, and mediated global conflicts. He didnt stop until his body finally gave out at the glorious age of 100. So, as we mourn his passing, what can we take away? What did Carter teach that might help us navigate the great moral questions of our day? My own vote is the courage he showed in opposing Israels mistreatment of the Palestinians living in the occupied territories. He wrote a book on that in 2006 with the provocative title, Palestine: Peace not Apartheid. It set off a storm, with the suggestion of racial bigotry. Abe Foxman, then director of the Anti-Defamation League, called Carter a bigot. Fourteen members of the Carter Center advisory board resigned in protest. Deborah Lipstadt, now the Biden administrations special envoy against antisemitism, accused him of having a Jewish problem. And Alan Dershowitz, the constitutional lawyer and ardent advocate for Israel, said Carter set out to offend Israelis and Jews. Jimmy Carters sensitivities seem to have a gaping hole when it comes to Jews. There is a term for that, he wrote. But Carter made clear in his book, and in interviews after it was published, that the apartheid he saw in Palestine was not driven by racial bigotry, as in South Africa. It was driven by greed for the land. Apartheid is a word that is an accurate description of what has been going on in the West Bank, and its based on the desire or avarice of a minority of Israelis for Palestinian land, Carter said. Its not based on racism. Those caveats are clearly made in the book. This is a word thats a very accurate description of the forced separation within the West Bank of Israelis from Palestinians and the total domination and oppression of Palestinians by the dominant Israeli military. In the 18 years since the book was published, some of Carters fiercest critics have changed their minds, as Israel has expanded Jewish settlements on the West Bank and used its military superiority to enforce a repressive separation and Jewish dominance. This was not the plan when Carter brokered the Camp David accords that brought lasting peace between Israel and Egypt. The occupation has grown more brutal since Oct. 7, under the right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu, who has appointed cabinet members who support annexation of the West Bank to oversee its security. Predictably, Jewish settlers today are taking more land from Palestinians, burning their homes and farms, beating and killing hundreds of those who wont move, and openly breaking laws that were designed to restrain them. All of this while Israeli police and soldiers stand by watching, as silent accomplices. These are not antisemitic ravings: They are facts on the ground, documented by Israeli and global human rights groups, multiple press accounts, and even senior Israeli security officials. Some of the fiercest critics of Carters book have since changed their minds. Steve Berman, who led the mass resignation from the Carter Centers board, later wrote Carter to apologize. I had started to view Israels occupation of the Palestinians as something that started in 1967 as an accident but was now becoming an enterprise with colonial intentions, Berman wrote. Dont miss the best in editorials, opinion columns and commentary from NJ.com writers. Add your email here: None of this excuses the murderous rampage by Hamas on Oct. 7, or the surge of antisemitism globally. Israel is up against a monstrous enemy, and a foul and ancient scourge. And Palestinians have rejected reasonable peace offerings from previous Israeli governments that would have opened a path towards a two-state solution. If you want a simple moral contrast, study World War II, not the Mideast. Carter was in hospice by the time Hamas launched its attack, but its a safe bet to say he would consider Israels response excessive as the body count in Gaza rises above 45,000. By now, it seems Netanyahu is determined to continue pounding schools and hospitals and apartment buildings until the last Hamas terrorist emerges from the tunnels underneath to surrender. The Carter Center issued this statement three weeks into the war. Israel, like all nations, has a right to defend itself; it also has the obligation of proportionality under international lawCollective punishment is contrary to international law. So is the murder of civilians. The violence must stop now. There is no military solution to this crisis, only a political one that acknowledges the common humanity of both Israelis and Palestinians, respects the human rights of all, and creates a path for both societies to live side by side in peace. Amen. May we eventually live in a world where Jimmy Carters moral vision carries the day. More: Tom Moran columns Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com or (973) 986-6951. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen will air on CNN on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. You can watch it live as it airs on DIRECTV Stream (free trial) or Sling TV (first month half price). The event will feature Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen, as always, ringing in the New Year as it changes from 2024 to 2025. Heres the information youll need to watch a free live stream of New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen online without cable. How to watch CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen without cable If youre a cord-cutter or dont have cable, you can live stream New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen on DIRECTV Stream (free trial) or Sling TV (first month half price). When is CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen on? CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen will begin its broadcast live on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. It will run until 12:30 a.m. What channel is CNN? You can use the channel finder on your providers website to locate it: Verizon Fios, AT&T U-verse, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV, Dish. Where can I watch other events like CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen? There are plenty of other New Years Eve events like New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. Look for them on DIRECTV Stream (free trial) or Sling TV (first month half price). What is CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen? Here is the official description of the show, according to CNNs Press Room blog: CNN is gearing up for another unforgettable New Years Eve celebration as Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen return for the eighth consecutive year as co-hosts of CNNs New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. Live from New York Citys Times Square, theyll lead CNNs global audience into 2025 with music, laughter, and live coverage from around the world. RELATED STORIES ABOUT TV STREAMING PLATFORMS Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Joseph Rejent covers TV, writing about live television, streaming services and cord-cutting. He can be reached at jrejent@njadvancemedia.com. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Storm system with tornadoes rips through southern U.S., killing 4 Xinhua) 10:46, December 31, 2024 NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- A deadly storm system spawned tornadoes across the South and Southeast of the United States over the weekend, killing at least four people and destroying homes and schools, The Washington Post reported Monday. The storms and tornadoes also caused delays and cancellations of holiday travel at some airports, according to the report. In Mississippi, two people were killed and at least six injured as tornadoes ripped through the state, Governor Tate Reeves announced on Sunday, adding that at least 100,000 people had lost power throughout the course of the storm. The deceased were located in Lowndes and Adams counties, he said, while the injuries occurred in Franklin, Simpson and Wayne counties. In Texas, one person was killed, and four others sustained injuries that weren't life-threatening after a tornado tore into parts of Liverpool and Hillcrest Village, the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office said on Saturday. Both areas are less than 45 miles south of Houston. In North Carolina, a 70-year-old man in Iredell County also died after a tree fell on his truck while he was driving in heavy rain, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Devons political map is set be redrawn as part of the most dramatic shake-up of local government in decades, but it isnt yet certain how the countys administrative boundaries will end up. The wide-ranging proposals seek to abolish district and borough councils to create larger authorities, with mayors overseeing one or more of those new entities. Devon County Council and Torbay Council had their bid to become a combined county authority (CCA) approved by the last Conservative government at the beginning of the year. However, the two authorities purposely pursued a non-mayoral set-up. Torbay had an elected mayor between 2005 and 2019, when the role was abolished. Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, who is also the secretary of state responsible for local government, referred to the CCA in a devolution white paper that sets out the governments vision for the reorganisation. The government said the Devon and Torbay CCA would continue to receive powers to to improve the integration of local transport and control of local transport functions and also be given the ability to exercise compulsory purchase powers to help drive regeneration. They will also receive devolved adult skills funding from academic year 2026/2027. But it is unclear what will happen to the CCA after that, especially as that body was not intended to lead to the abolition of any local councils. The picture now Devon has eight district or borough councils, a county council and two unitary authorities. Districts and boroughs oversee services such as planning and waste collection, while county councils are responsible for the likes of education and the highways network. Unitary authorities look after all services within their areas, and it is this format that the government is seeking to replicate across the country. Under Ms Rayners proposals, though, while it is clear the government no longer sees districts as the future, it isnt quite so obvious what exactly might happen to them in Devon. They are being invited to propose how they might amalgamate with neighbouring authorities, and talks are under way now. Another factor that is also unclear is what happens to Devons unitary authorities. While they might meet the desired unitary format that the government seeks, neither of Devons unitary councils Plymouth and Torbay have 500,000 residents a requirement outlined in the new local government reorganisation proposals. Plymouth has a population of just over 264,000 based on 2021 census data, while Torbay sat at around 139,000. The white paper states that unitary councils could be reorganised or merged into a new, larger authority, where there is evidence of failure or where their size or boundaries may be hindering their ability to deliver sustainable and high-quality public services. What could happen next? One senior Devon political source, who did not want to be named, suggested that four Devon district councils were looking to create a proposal to become one new enlarged authority. There have also been claims that Devon County Council and Torbay might look to become one entity; even though they are both part of a CCA, they still retain their distinct identities outside of that body at present. Others have said they wonder whether both Plymouth and Exeter Labour-run councils might try and go it alone even though they come nowhere close to the 500,000 population minimum level being required by Ms Rayner. Essentially that means no change for Plymouth, but Exeter taking on the responsibilities of a unitary authority. It planned for that in the late 2000s, before aborting the idea in 2010. More realistically, both cities could absorb neighbouring districts, with the exact make-up and boundaries up for debate. Some people on social media platform X have attempted to draw a notional new political map of Devon. The Exeter Urbanist, for example, seemingly splits the county into five areas, including a Plymouth authority that subsumes parts of West Devon and half the South Hams, with the other half of that latter council roughly merging with Torbay and Teignbridge. Given South Hams District Council already collaborates with Plymouth on the countys freeport, there could be logic to the councils becoming one authority, and possibly with others too. A busy start to 2025 What is clear is that with councils only having until Friday 10 January to put forward proposals for who they want to merge with, the political calendar for the first month of 2025 is going to be stuffed full. Already Devon County Council has announced a special meeting the day before to discuss its options, and others will no doubt be following suit. Besides boundaries, politics will also be at play. The county council is Conservative-controlled, but is surrounded by Liberal Democrat-run councils including Teignbridge, the South Hams, East Devon and Mid Devon. And somewhat ironically, the county councils headquarters is in Labour-controlled Exeter. Fewer, larger authorities may well lead to fewer councillors, and fewer decision-making roles, especially where two-tier systems exist. As turkeys dont usually vote for Christmas, few have been the voices calling for themselves to be abolished. Who wants to collaborate with whom, therefore, could be important, and one key issue to watch will be whether the county council elections go ahead in May, or whether they are deferred something potentially allowable for councils who put forward merger proposals. Christmas, it seems, has possibly been interrupted for senior local politicians. Rather than taking a break, some could be plotting potential scenarios for the future or not of their authorities. On Dec. 23, Robinson pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud charges for using $11,200 in township funds meant for community rental assistance to pay for her own rent in Gary. She resigned from her township office on the Dec. 20 as a condition of her plea deal. In a statement announcing his candidacy, Washington called news of Robinson's guilty plea "unfortunate." "We are witnessing a revolving door of empty promises while the very foundation of our governments integrity is being eroded," he wrote, noting the office's history of corruption. In 2010, former Calumet City Township Trustee Dozier Allen Jr. was sentenced to 18 months in prison for stealing $143,000 from a federal grant received by the township. Seven years later, Township Trustee Mary Elgin pleaded guilty to charges that she evaded taxes and extorted campaign contributions and unpaid work from her employees. In accordance with Indiana law, Lake County Democratic Party precinct committee members will vote on Robinson's replacement in a caucus scheduled for Jan. 16. A Japanese company came up with the genius idea of selling plastic bags of popcorn as an edible alternative to conventional cushioning materials like styrofoam pellets and cardboard. Azechi Foods, a popcorn manufacturer and delicacy wholesaler in Japans Kochi City, has become famous for using and selling popcorn not just as a snack but as a cushioning material. The companys manager, Shihoko Wada, had been struggling to promote popcorn on the Azechi Foods online store where people mainly bought delicacies when she was inspired by a laptop repair technician at a management seminar. The man used Umaibo sticks (cylindrical puffed corn snacks) as a cushioning material, and while some in attendance found it funny, for Wada it was a revelation. Not only could the popcorn be used as an actual snack after use, but it was also an incredible opportunity to attract attention. If Umaibo can be used as a cushioning material, then I thought the popcorn that our company makes could also be used as a cushioning material, Shihoko Wada told Gendai Magazine. Once its finished serving its purpose as a cushioning material, it can be eaten, so it doesnt become useless garbage. Above all, I thought that the customers who received it would be happy with the surprise, they would get a sense of value, and it would also help improve the companys image. Wadas idea was to package the popcorn in a transparent plastic bag that had not edible printed on it, only with the not crossed out, and then use the bags as cushioning material in the packages they sent all over the country. People loved the idea and before long, photos of the bags started going viral on Japanese social media. Azechi Foods filed for a trademark registration and soon started receiving orders from all sorts of businesses, like a company that sells used video games, a greengrocer, a wine seller. etc. As photos of its unique cushioning material went viral online, the number of orders increased and they even got requests for coverage from national TV outlets. Although the bags of popcorn are more expensive than conventional cushioning materials like styrofoam or cardboard, they also come with a few definite advantages: they can be eaten, and thus eliminate the risk of waste, which cant really be said about other cushioning or filler materials, most of which end up in the trash after one use. Azechi Foods currently offers two package sizes 40g and 13g but Azechi Foods hopes to start offering it in other sizes, as well as other styles of packaging to keep customers entertained. A 32-year-old Indian man admitted to cutting off four fingers on his left hand to avoid having to continue working as a computer operator at a relatives company. Learning to say no sounds easy, but for some people, it can be harder than crippling themselves for life. Case in point, a Gujarat man who staged an accident that left him missing four fingers on his left hand to avoid having to tell his boss that he wanted to quit his job. Earlier this month, Mayur Tarapara showed up at a police station in his native city of Surat to report that four mingers were missing from his left hand. He claimed to have been riding his motorcycle to a friends house when he suddenly felt dizzy and passed out on the side of the road. When he woke up 10 minutes later, four fingers on his left hand had been chopped off. Police initially believed that the mans fingers had been stolen for black magic rituals, but their investigation found huge holes in Mayurs story. Photo: Unsplash The bizarre case was registered at Amroli police station in Surat before being transferred to the citys Crime Branch. Investigators started checking CCTV footage in the area where the victim claimed to have passed out as well as investigating eye-witnesses, but virtually nothing checked out. Mayur appeared to park his bike near a ring road before casually walking away and returning with an injured left hand. Plus, no one had seen him passed out by the side of the road. Pressed by police, the man admitted to cutting the fingers off himself. Tarapara confessed that he bought a sharp knife from a shop near Char Rasta in Singanpore, a police official told The Hindu. Four days later, on Sunday night, he went to Amroli Ring Road and parked his motorcycle there. At around 10pm, he cut off four fingers with a knife and tied a rope near the elbow to prevent blood flow. He then put the knife and fingers in a bag and threw it away. Mayur Tarapara reluctantly told investigators that he resorted to maiming himself because he didnt want to work at his relatives diamond company anymore. He didnt want to tell them, though, but missing four fingers made him unfit for the job. Police managed to find a bag with three of the mans fingers, but they are still trying to get more information from him to piece this bizarre story together. He admitted that he didnt want to work in the diamond factory and had planned to chop off his four fingers so that he did not have to work in the diamond factory, a crime inspector said. We are trying to dig out more information from him. Over 3,400 has been raised for the oncology unit in Tullamore Hospital through a darts fundraiser A MAJOR fund-raiser undertaken by a local man battling lung cancer has raised a whopping 3,424 for the oncology unit at the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore. Darts enthusiast, Eddie Lennon, ably assisted by his wife, Breda, and close family friend, Laura Smollen, brought darts champion, Simon Whitlock to Tullamore where he gave an exhibition at the Goalpost public house in Tullamore. Goalpost proprietor, Darren Sheridan, was also a key member of the organising team, and the darts exhibition attracted a large crowd to the Goalpost on Monday night week last. As well as displaying his skills, Simon Whitlock who is known as the Wizard of Oz played 24 local players with only one, Dinny Martin, managing to beat the Australian. Simon was accompanied by his son, Mason, an up and coming talent on the international darts stage in the UK and elsewhere. Eddie Lennon, accompanied by Laura Smollen and Darren Sheridan, presented the cheque for 3,424 to Anne Mangan and the team at the oncology unit in Tullamore Hospital on Monday afternoon last. Speaking to the Tribune afterwards, Eddie said he had been inspired to spearhead the fundraiser following his own experiences after being diagnosed with lung cancer last July. He was spurred to action by the treatment he has received in the oncology unit and that which his best friend, the late Cllr Ken Smollen brother of Laura received. Ken passed away from lung and bone cancer on July 12 last, the same day Eddie was diagnosed with lung cancer. "I have been getting treatment there since July and I'm now going for immune treatment. I'll also be going to St James' Hospital in Dublin for radium treatment as I also suffered a seizure of the brain," explained Eddie. He said he was "over the moon" with how successful the fund-raiser had proven to be and "can't thank my wife, Breda, and Laura enough for all they've done." Funds were raised through the darts exhibition and a draw for a signed darts board on exhibition night in the Goalpost. A substantial portion of the funds approximately 2,000 was raised over a two day period by Laura and Eddie in the Bridge Centre and Eddie extended their gratitude to the manager of the shopping centre, John Cusack. Perhaps the highlight of the darts exhibition night in the Goalpost on Monday week last was when Eddie was presented with a lifetime achievement award for his work in promoting darts in the Goalpost by the pub's proprietor Darren Sheridan. Eddie and Breda introduced darts to the Goalpost eight years ago and since then it has thrived there with the pub fielding an array of teams. Eddie has captained the team which won the Daingean Darts League over the past two years. Eddie is very grateful to the oncology unit staff for his ongoing treatment and despite his diagnosis he looks forward to the future with confidence. "I'm going to fight it to the last. I'm not giving up and I'm staying positive the whole time," he stressed. A TULLAMORE woman and her partner are busy preparing for what they hope will be life changing surgery abroad. In February next year, Avril O'Connell will accompany partner David Digan to Vienna for a number of revolutionary procedures which could result in David being fitted for a robotic arm. In 2019, David's life changed forever following a horrific motorbike accident which left his left arm paralysed. He also sustained two breaks to his neck and injuries to his collarbone. He later had his arm amputated and spent two weeks in a coma at Tullamore hospital where he remained for three months in total before being referred to the NRH (National Rehabilitation Hospital) in Dun Laoghaire. Since then, David, the father of one daughter, has faced numerous challenges including the loss of his career as a commercial diver, a job which he loved. David, who hails from Moate, has struggled to rebuild his life with this significant disability. ''Despite countless setbacks, Ive never stopped hoping for a better future. Over the years, Ive undergone multiple surgeries, including nerve transfers, a muscle transfer from my leg to my forearm, and eventually, arm amputation and bone reconstruction (derotational osteotomy) to prepare for a myoelectric prosthetic. Sadly, many of these efforts havent worked as planned.'' said David. Now there is hope on the horizon for David as he has been selected for a number of groundbreaking trials in Vienna where surgeons will perform an ''osseointegration surgery on his forearm to secure a prosthetic by bone anchoring it. The next step will be to connect this robotic prosthetic to the remaining nerves and muscles in my arm/shouldera pioneering attempt to restore function where none seemed possible,'' said David. David will be required to travel back and forth to Vienna next year, where it will be necessary for him to stay for an extended period each time. Partner Avril will be his carer for each trip. While the surgery itself is funded as part of the trial, David needs help to cover the travel and accommodation costs required for these treatments. The funds will allow him to stay in Vienna for consultations, surgeries and recovery sessions. David said, ''this isnt just about a prostheticits about reclaiming independence, regaining a sense of normalcy, and rebuilding my life.'' David and Avril have set up a GoFund me page for those who wish to donate. This can be accessed on https://gofund.me/6a5ee618 One of the deadliest creatures in the country was found making itself at home in the man's car. A Queensland driver found himself in an unlikely game of hide and seek when he spotted an eastern brown snake pop its head up from inside his car bonnet while out on a recent shopping trip. The highly venomous snake was likely hiding from the chaos and "seeking refugee" from the driver, a snake handler says. The incident occurred in Brisbane's eastern riverside suburb of Murarrie, and thankfully the driver got a heads up as he "saw it go under his car" before he was set to drive away, saving the snake from being injured or killed. So the motorist quickly called a local snake catcher for some assistance. "It's not overly common for a snake to be found in a car but it happens," Willow Sorbello from Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast told Yahoo News. "It can be a space where they can get warmth but there's no food or water there for them so they'd move on quickly." "It might have just been the closest thing for it to hide out of view and feel safe," he explained. ADVERTISEMENT Drivers have their fair share of snake encounters While snakes don't generally seek out cars, Aussies have had their fair share of startled encounters with reptiles as they seek refuge or get stuck. This was the case in October when a python was found in the engine of a car that was parked at a campsite in the Murray Mallee region of Victoria. Another driver desperately pulled over when she witnessed a snake crawl out from under her bonnet and across the windscreen of her car while driving in the bush. There have been several snake rescues recently from cars. Source: Facebook/Urban Reptile Removal Brown snakes are the most venomous in the country and are responsible for the majority of Australia's snake bite fatalities, with 41 per cent of snake bites in the country coming from the species. Around 3,000 snake bites are reported each year, however, fatalities are relatively low with two deaths reported on average. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday cautioned against "organised efforts" to portray social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as a proponent of Sanatana Dharma. He claimed that the Guru was neither a spokesperson nor a practitioner of the Sanatana Dharma but a saint who had reconstructed it and proclaimed a Dharma befitting the new age. The CM was speaking at the inauguration of a pilgrimage conference held in Sivagiri, the headquarters of Sree Narayana Sangam. Sanatana Dharma is nothing but 'varnashrama dharma' (caste-based social order), which the Guru had challenged and overcome, the CM said. The new age "humanistic dharma" Guru advocated stands with time, he added. Trying to fix Guru in the framework of Sanatana Dharma is a great insult to the saint, he said. Varnasrama Dharma is synonymous with or an integral part of Sanatana Dharma, the CM said, adding that Guru's ascetic life was the one which questioned and defied the entire chaturvarnya system. "Attempts to downplay social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as a mere religious leader or as a religious saint must be realised. It should be understood that Guru had no religion and had no caste," the CM said. If someone tries to place Guru himself within the boundaries of caste or religion, there can be no insult to the sage beyond that, he added. Warning that there would be attempts to present the Guru as an advocate of whatever he had fought against, Vijayan urged people to be vigilant against such attempts. "Don't let that happen. Be able to firmly state that such misinterpretations will not be tolerated," he said. ADVERTISEMENT Meanwhile, the chief minister's remarks drew sharp reactions from the BJP, which alleged that Vijayan had insulted Sanatana Dharma in the holy land of Sivagiri and the followers of Sree Narayana Guru through his remarks. "The crux of Vijayan's speech at the Sivagiri conference was that Sanatana Dharma should be hated. His remarks were a continuation of Udayanidhi Stalin's statement that Sanatana Dharma should be eradicated," senior BJP leader V Muraleedharan told the media. The former union minister sought to know whether the CM would have the courage to say such things about the Holy Quran, reported PTI. The Hindu community in Kerala faced the greatest challenge during Vijayan's rule, the BJP leader said. The CM tried to challenge the faith at Sabarimala, and during Thrissur Pooram, he added. Muraleedharan also said that the people of Kerala would reject the Communist propaganda portraying Guru as an enemy of Sanatana Dharma. The impact of armed conflicts on children around the world reached devastating and likely record levels in 2024. Almost 19 per cent of the worlds children over 47.3 crore now live in conflict zones, and 47.2 million have been displaced by conflict and violence. From Palestine to Myanmar, Haiti to Sudan, the world is experiencing the highest number of conflicts since World War II. Thousands of children have been killed and injured in Gaza, and in Ukraine. There have been widespread reports of rape and sexual violence against women and girls in conflict settings. In Haiti, so far this year, there has been a 1,000 per cent increase in reported incidents of sexual violence against children. In situations of armed conflict, children with disabilities also tend to be disproportionately exposed to violence and rights violations. Impact of armed conflicts on children Children do not start wars, but they pay the highest price for them. They are more likely than adults to be killed or maimed by explosive weapons. They lose the protection and care of family members and friends. They are abducted from their homes, recruited by armed groups and sexually violated. Their schools and hospitals are destroyed, and many are denied life-saving aid, based simply on who they are or where they live. ADVERTISEMENT Children account for 30 per cent of the global population, yet on average account for roughly 40 per cent of refugee populations and 49 per cent of internally displaced people. A child growing up in a conflict zone is far more likely to be out of school, malnourished, or forced from their home too often repeatedly compared to a child living in places of peace. This must not be the new normal. Education severely disrupted More than 52 million children in countries affected by conflict are estimated to be out of school. Children in the Gaza Strip, and a significant portion of children in Sudan, have missed out on more than a year of education, while in countries such as Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Syria, schools have been damaged, destroyed or repurposed, leaving millions of children without access to learning. The destruction of educational infrastructure and insecurity near schools have exacerbated an already dire situation for childrens education in these regions. Malnutrition and famine ADVERTISEMENT Malnutrition among children in conflict zones has also risen to alarming levels, as conflict and armed violence continue to be the primary drivers of hunger in numerous hotspots, disrupting food systems, displacing populations, and obstructing humanitarian access. For example, in Sudan, famine was declared in North Darfur, the first famine determination since 2017. In 2024, more than half a million people in five conflict-affected countries are estimated to be living in the most extreme food insecurity situations. Healthcare threatened Conflicts are also having a devastating effect on childrens access to critical healthcare. Around 40 per cent of unvaccinated and under-vaccinated children live in countries that are either partially or entirely affected by conflict. These children are often the most vulnerable to disease outbreaks like measles and polio, because of disruptions and lack of access to security, nutrition, and health services. ADVERTISEMENT The impact on childrens mental health is also huge. Exposure to violence, destruction and the loss of loved ones can result in reactions such as depression, nightmares and difficulty sleeping, aggressive or withdrawn behaviour, sadness and fear, among others. Children in war zones face a daily struggle for survival that deprives them of a childhood. Their schools are bombed, homes destroyed, and families torn apart. They lose not only their safety and access to basic life-sustaining necessities, but also their chance to play, to learn, and to simply be children. Progressive Content Not Found Sometimes, authors delete their progressive content after publishing. To see if the progressive content was renamed or re-published, please click here. A quiet mid-year change in South Australia made it more likely drivers can be fined for using their phone. Now police want a similar change for smart watches. A mid-year change to the law has made it easier for drivers to get caught using their phone. Source: SAPOL Authorities in states and territories across the country have ramped up roadside camera technology in 2024 with drivers being put on notice that police will be targeting new transgressions behind the wheel in the coming year. Police in South Australia revealed the latest statistics when it comes to the state's new mobile phone detection cameras. The technology was rolled out in June with the commencement of a trial period before drivers were officially fined from September. On Monday, police revealed the number of people caught using their phone behind the wheel has dropped off significantly since the trial period. "The initial three-month trial saw a total of over 68,000 detections," SA Police's officer in charge of traffic services, Superintendent Shane Johnson said at a media conference. "Now, after three months of operations, that number has declined to just over 28,000." ADVERTISEMENT Related: Major road rule changes coming into effect in 2025 across Australia However there are still shocking cases being caught on the state's roads, including one motorist who police allege was caught 41 times, consequently racking up an astonishing $27,000 in fines. The driver has had their licence suspended with police continuing to make further enquiries. Meanwhile there were 16 people issued with 10 or more fines and 165 people caught using their phone while driving four times in the period to close out 2024. Police believe driver behaviour is changing since the introduction of the cameras, but want it to happen quicker. Source: SAPOL Yahoo recently reported on a quiet mid-year change in the law which made it easier for drivers to be nabbed for using their mobile phone behind the wheel, by allowing the infringement to include when someone has the device simply resting in their lap. It meant drivers with two hands on the wheel can still cop a hefty penalty. "The Road Rules Amendment Regulations have broadened the definition of 'use' to circumstances where a mobile phone is being held, including in the drivers lap," a spokesperson for South Australia Police told Yahoo in September. ADVERTISEMENT "Drivers should be aware of recent changes to Australian Road Rules regarding mobile phone use, which came into effect on 6 June 2024," SA Police added. SA Police want to target drivers using smart watches in 2025 With the proliferation of smart devices that can distract drivers, road authorities in South Australia also warned this week they hope to be targeting the use of smart watches in 2025. However a legislative change will again be required to enable police to enforce the new rule in the state. "Smart watches can be a form of distraction and legislation is being looked at for 2025," Superintendent Johnson said. "Our message is if it's distracting you while driving you shouldn't be looking at your smart watch." SA Police are keen to take on distracted driving caused by smart watches. Source: Getty Drivers in other states already risk fines if caught using their smart watch behind the wheel. In Victoria, for instance, motorists can be hit with a near $500 fine for the infringement, while in NSW it's more than $360. ADVERTISEMENT In Queensland, there is no specific law relating to smart watch use, and hidden road cameras don't pick them up but drivers could be hit with a more than $500 fine for driving without due care. WA to roll out 'advanced AI' roadside cameras from January 26 Over in Western Australia, authorities are touting new technology to hit the state in a few weeks, with officials keen to put drivers on notice ahead of a major rollout of hi-tech AI speed cameras in the state's bid to crack down on mobile phone and seatbelt offences. WA's Road Safety Minister David Michael on Monday said the new "cutting edge cameras" will be able to detect the offences when they are rolled out on January 26 next year calling them the "most advanced" systems in the country. The new cameras use AI software to identify high-risk driver behaviours including illegal mobile phone use, seatbelt offences, spot speed and point-to-point (average) speed. ADVERTISEMENT Caution notices will be issued to people caught on camera in the first few months before an enforcement period commences in May next year. with NCA Newswire Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. This brief article is about President-Elect Donald J. Trump and my expectation that he and his appointees will evict the bulls in the U.S. China Shop. According to one of my favorite sources, Miriam Webster, a "bull in a China Shop" is "a person who breaks things or who often makes mistakes or causes damage in situations that require careful thinking or behavior". From the very beginning of America, the power elite who comprise America's "corpocracy", the collusion of industry's' superior power elite and the US government's subordinate power elite, have been the "bulls in America's China shop", causing widespread death and poverty. [1] I fully expect and predict that President-Elect Donald J. Trump and Elon Musk, Trump's genius appointee to head the new US government agency, "The Department of Government Efficiency", will spearhead their initiative to, in my words, "evict permanently all bulls out of the China shop". I shall next briefly discuss my personal experience with the suffocating inefficiency of the US federal bureaucracy when I was once a Fed myself. I was very fortunate to have worked closely with Thomas S. McFee (1931-2006), then the highest paid civil servant in the entire federal government. We invented a new and more efficient and effective personnel procedure. Despite his rank, the central civil service regulatory agency would not approve of its use. Disgruntled, we expressed our frustration in a journal article we coauthored titled "Tilting with the Bureaucracy". [2] No More Surrogate Murderers as US Presidents! Albert Einstein called war "an act of murder". Ipso facto, a U.S. President who authorizes a war or any military operation that cause fatalities is a "surrogate murderer". Take the Vietnam War, for example, that killed millions and caused incalculable property damage. The U.S. Presidents who were the surrogate murderers during this war were Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford. I predict that President-elect Donald J. Trump will not follow suit and will instead evict the warrior bulls. In Closing I am counting on President Donald J. Trump, Mr. Elon Musk and the rest of Trump's appointees to "evict the bulls in the U.S. China shop"! Notes 1. Brumback, G.B. & McFee, T.S. Tilting at the Bureaucracy. The Industrial- Organizational-Organizational Psychologist, Vol. 43, Number 3 January 2006. When Donald Trump again warms the throne in Washington on Martin Luther King Day, each of the three evils that King worked to abolish will get a major boost: racism, extreme materialism, and militarism. Racism While Trumplickers post-election propose recruiting abroad certain highly educated potential immigrants (and defunding and further destroying U.S. education -- including by writing racism -- not to mention critical thinking -- out of history books while shaping them in a fundamentally racist vision), they're also pushing for a military campaign to seize and deport the wrong kind of immigrants and refugees, and threatening any cities that dare to protect their residents. While Democratic emperors eagerly fuel genocide, they don't campaign for office on racism. So, there will be attention paid to this one. But consider the next two interlocking evils as well. Extreme Materialism The inauguration events themselves will be an open bribery fest for corporations and billionaires wanting military contracts, subsidies, and to ensure that they continue paying lower taxes than the people Trump promises to kidnap and ship overseas. Trump promises Day 1 "executive orders" (aka unconstitutional lawmaking) to maximize climate destruction for profit. This evil is only a matter of degree above that of other presidents or of Congress members. So, work will be needed to call it into the open. Militarism Trump promised peace in Ukraine not after his inauguration but before it. We should do everything possible to make that happen, while recognizing the fundamental problems with what Trump proposes: Trump wants the U.S. to stop buying weapons for Ukraine but wants every other country that has been arming Ukraine to buy vastly more weapons for whatever they choose to do with them; Trumplickers to a man want the U.S. and the other countries to all buy vastly more weapons to aim at China and other targets -- or to give to Israel; military madness is shifting into military wackiness (Trump wants to take over Canada, Mexico, Greenland, Panama, etc.); no one has publicly hinted at the slightest interest in the wishes of the residents of various parts of Ukraine, or in settling the war in a lasting and just manner, or in funding anything other than war, or in supporting demilitarization, the rule of law, or the development of democracy as anything other than a category of war propaganda. Mix Them All Together and What Have You Got Trump wants to nominate to run his war machine a man who has shouted "Kill all Muslims!" and to use that war machine to further enrich the genocide-profiteering 1 Percent. His xenophobia advances a strong bigotry against the 96 percent of humanity outside the United States -- plus plenty of people within it, who are defined not just as subhuman but as "the enemy within". King's evil triplets are a recipe for fascism, and we've been slow-cooking it for decades. Five Per-Goddamned-Cent There is a number that is key to all of this. And it is not a percentage of people, but a percentage of an economy. It is a number recently put forward by Trump, and therefore likely to soon be replaced by a larger and crazier number. Trump is again taking over the world's dominant military. About 70 percent of the foreign military bases on Earth are U.S. bases. Since 1945, the U.S. military has acted in a major or minor way in 74 other nations. Of 230 other countries, the U.S. exports more weaponry than 228 of them combined. Most places with wars manufacture no weapons. Most wars have U.S.-made weapons on at least one side, and often both. Only the U.S. military has devoted various sections to various portions of the Earth (and space), seeking to dominate everyone everywhere. And, in the latest numbers on military spending, of 230 other countries, the U.S. spends more than 227 of them combined. Russia and China spend a combined 21 percent of what the U.S. and its allies spend on war. In per-capita terms, the only higher spender on militarism than the United States is Israel (which includes in its expenditures billions of dollars given it by the U.S. government). As a percentage of government discretionary spending, the U.S. Congress puts 62 percent into militarism. Weapons dealers and their lackeys do not like to talk about military spending in dollars, or in dollars per capita, or in percentage of government spending (whether limited to discretionary or otherwise). They like to talk about weapons spending as a percentage of an economy measured as gross domestic product, or all the goods and services created in a country. They like this not because instruments of mass murder really are the grossest domestic product, but because numbers like 1 percent and 2 percent sound smaller than numbers like 62 percent; because this measurement allows the pretense that military spending is declining even while it is increased; because this measurement allows comparisons between U.S. military spending and other nations' military spending in which the U.S. isn't off the charts; and because those comparisons are not neutral but always and necessarily pro-war -- ranking nations by how much they spend of their economy on weapons suggests that weapons spending is a public good to be maximized, not a sadistic evil to be abolished, and not even a necessary burden to be adjusted based on supposed threats. In recent months, Biden was insisting that NATO members spend 2 percent of their GDP on militarism, whereas Trump had upped it to a new demand: 3 percent. Now Trump has announced that it must be 5 percent. It's a well-kept secret, but Trump's supposed opposition to NATO last time around amounted to badgering NATO members into buying more (mostly U.S.-made) weapons. In fact, while Biden bragged about the exact same accomplishment, Trump's badgering produced more military spending increases from NATO members than did Biden's, even though Biden has a Russian invasion of Ukraine to work with. And despite complaining that the U.S. was spending more than its "fair share", Trump also increased U.S. military spending (or commanded Congress to do so) -- just as Obama had done and Biden would do -- and Trump will do yet again if not stopped. After all, not even the United States meets the new 5 percent standard. The first-term Trump embraced his role as weapons-dealer-in-chief far more publicly than any other U.S. president, holding press conferences to brag about new weapons sales. He also allowed weapons shipments from the United States to Ukraine, something that Obama had refused to do out of fear that it could lead to war with Russia. Trump -- widely reported as a friend or even a servant of the Russian government -- also evicted Russian diplomats, sanctioned Russian officials, put missiles practically on Russia's border, lobbied European nations to drop Russian energy deals, left the Iran agreement, tore up the INF Treaty, rejected Russia's offers on banning weapons in space and banning cyberwar, expanded NATO eastward, added a NATO partner in Colombia, proposed adding Brazil, splurged on more nukes, bombed Russians in Syria, oversaw the largest war rehearsals in Europe in half a century (now outdone), condemned all proposals for a non-NATO European military, and insisted that Europe stick with NATO. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Who will give voice to the outrage? (Image by Pixabay: SeppH) Details DMCA While I've been spending the holidays toning up my chopsticks skills (Tuesday-Korean; Wednesday-Japanese; Thursday-Chinese vegan), the rest of the world has apparently been going to hell in a handbasket. Let's see if I can catch up. Elon Musk, the president-non-elect, learned that even the richest man in the world can't force a few hundred career politicians to shut down the United States government over the holidays. His sidekick and ceremonial president, Donald Trump, learned that those same politicians wouldn't give him a free credit card by suspending the debt ceiling in order to keep the government open. Worthwhile lessons for all involved, including the American people who would have suffered the most. Not to be distracted by reality, Trump also fantasized about annexing Canada as the 51st state, seizing the Panama Canal from China and buying Greenland from Denmark. Canada, Panama, China and Denmark were not amused. The Danes, in fact, wondered what the going price might be on a somewhat worn U.S. democracy. The Mexican president had already told Trump to cool it on the tariff talk. Meanwhile, Russian president Vladimir Putin ignored Trump's election campaign claim that he'd end the war in Ukraine as soon as he was elected, never mind got sworn in. Didn't happen. In fact, North Korea sent in some troops to help Russia fight its increasingly costly war and Putin, struggling with losses in Ukraine, abandoned his buddy Assad in Syria and let rebel forces take over the government there virtually overnight. Meanwhile, the other Korea, the supposedly Democratic one, saw its president declare martial law, then back down swiftly after massive demonstrations, broke out in the streets, only to eventually be impeached. But wait, there's more. The acting president appointed to bring order from the chaos, refused to appoint judges to overhear the impeachment proceedings against the martial law president. So the acting president was impeached. I have no idea where this is going, and I'm not sure the Koreans do either. Meanwhile, Russia's not-nearly-as-efficient-as -everyone-thought military machine was suspected in the downing of an Azerbaijan passenger jet that crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people on board. Analysts suggested a missile from Russia's air defense system struck the plane. Those Russian missiles had been used to shoot down drones flown from Ukraine. There was no word on whether the Russians were suspected in the sudden disappearance of all those hundreds of drones that were mysteriously flying over New Jersey for the past couple of weeks. And our government still wasn't saying anything at all about them -- the drones, not the Russians -- except that we shouldn't worry. So I'm going to try not to. At least I don't live in Mozambique where more than 6,000 prisoners, including Isis terrorists, escaped from prison as part of nationwide civil unrest over widespread voting irregularities in the country's recent presidential election. And boy doesn't that sound familiar? France avoided the bloodshed, but after a vote of no confidence removed the prime minister, a new prime minister has named a new government, fate as yet to be determined. So these are apparently the times that try our souls, people. But I wonder, where are the songs of protest? We Shall Overcome! Never mind where all the flowers have gone, where are the Woody Guthries, Pete Seegers, the Bob Dylans for Pete's sake! Tik-tok and Beyonce' and Taylor Swift don't cover all the disharmony. President Joe Biden just formally recognized the bald eagle as the official national bird. Long overdue, I'd say, and fitting. But that proud, beautiful bird needs a new "Yankee Doodle Dandy", one for the 21st century. Please! Meanwhile, I'm going to keep working out with my chopsticks. Oregon State weathered Portlands blazing start to Mondays game in Gill Coliseum, rallying for an 89-79 win over Pilots in the Beavers West Coast Conference opener. Michael Rataj scored a career-high 28 points and OSU shot 61%, needing all of it to beat a Portland team that couldnt miss for the first 15 minutes Monday. Rataj hit 12 of 15 shots during his 28-point performance, one of five Beavers (11-3, 1-0 WCC) to reach double figures. Nate Kingz, Parsa Fallah and Liutauras Lelevicius scored 15 points, while Isaiah Sy had 14 for OSU. If you are looking for a job in 2025 and lack moral and ethical scruples, you may be in luck: The cybercrime job market is expected to boom. That is according to a report by the Identity Theft Resource Center, a San Diego-based nonprofit that is a national leading expert in cybersecurity education, research and victim support. The center made that and four other predictions for 2025 that primarily focus on enforcement policy changes and resource allocation priorities under the incoming presidential administration. While the predictions are about regulation, legislation and the business environment, theres no question that each of the predictions has direct consequences for consumers. Professional cybercriminal organizations are gearing up for a hiring boom to take advantage of the power of artificial intelligence and the lack of enforceable cybersecurity standards in the U.S., the report states about recruitment in the cybercrime realm. Easy to use tools that do not require a high level of technical skill allow criminals to target organizations, looking for known and unknown software bugs that can be exploited for a ransomware or a cyberattack that leads to a data breach. Job postings seeking software testers are already appearing in job forums used by cybercriminals. In the same report, the nonprofit also self-critiqued its 2024 predictions and found that it was spot on in two of five predictions. For the other three, it underestimated the extent of criminal activity and just how hard it would become to protect Americans identities from thieves. One harrowing statistic it shared: 12% of identity theft victims who contacted the nonprofit for help in 2024 shared thoughts about ending their lives because the impacts of the theft were so devastating. Heres what else to expect in 2025, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center: 1. Less support from government and law enforcement agencies to tackle cybercrime Federal government priorities under the new administration are likely to deprioritize critical areas like identity crime prevention, cybercrime enforcement, cybersecurity regulations and victim assistance program funding. Federal, state, and local governments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that victims rely on to navigate complex fraud cases will see fewer resources allocated. A significant reduction in law enforcement involvement in identity crime investigations is also likely, the report said. 2. Less money for ID theft crime victims If the first prediction holds and fewer identity crimes are investigated and prosecuted, then fewer criminal fines and asset forfeitures will be available to replenish the 40-year-old Victims of Crime Act Fund, the report said. The consequences will be significant: fewer resources for service providers like the ITRC, fewer victims receiving aid, and a diminished ability to address the ripple effects of identity crimes. 3. Federal regulation will take a backseat to state regulation The nonprofit expects federal regulators to loosen requirements around reporting cyberattacks and data breaches. In tandem, the number of states expected to adopt their own privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations will grow beyond the current 20 states that have them. Thats good news for residents of those states, but a state by state approach creates confusion for people and businesses and a system where geography determines your protections and support services. Its also a compliance burden on organizations that operate in more than one state. 4. Return to self-regulation In the 1990s and 2000s, industries developed best practices and standards around cybersecurity, the report said. That will become the trend once again. Since federal government regulations will wane in the new year, look for voluntary, self-regulation to make a comeback when it comes to identity and cybersecurity. There is one more drawback, the report concluded: Without mandated requirements, sophisticated fraud enterprises will take advantage of inconsistent protections, leading to increased identity crimes and consumer distrust. Businesses will face greater reputational and financial risks due to breaches and fraud that stricter regulatory frameworks would help prevent. -- Roxana Popescu, The San Diego Union-Tribune 2024 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Outgoing Portland Commissioner Rene Gonzalez might sue the city over what he calls a slow response to physical threats and potentially dangerous incidents that he and other elected officials have faced. The allegation is part of a tort claim Gonzalez filed the week before Christmas, seeking reimbursement for damages from an alleged arson that occurred outside the commissioners house a year ago and remains unsolved. The Greyhound Bus company is ending its daily bus route along Interstate 84 between Portland and Boise in mid-January. Whether the route will return is uncertain, according to a schedule the company provided to Community Connection of Northeast Oregon. Greyhound, which has been operating under the FlixBus name in this area since 2023, will discontinue the Portland to Boise route on Jan. 14. Starting Jan. 15, FlixBus will have a daily route from Portland to Pasco, Washington. FLIX is making these changes due to reduced ridership and revenue along the corridor which has particular impact during the first quarter of the year, according to a schedule that Juan Castro, Greyhounds regional sales and agency manager for the western region, sent to Connie Guentert, executive director of Community Connection, on Dec. 18. We hope to restore this service at some future date. The current schedule for the Portland-Boise route does not list a stop in Baker City, although the bus does stop in Pendleton, La Grande and Ontario. Joe Hayes, Baker County manager for Community Connection, said on Monday, Dec. 30, that he is disappointed in the pending loss of the scheduled bus service. The remaining options for local residents, including through Community Connection, is limited, Hayes said. He said his reaction on hearing about the change was youve got to be kidding me. If you have no other transportation option, it is pretty affordable, he said. A ride from La Grande to Boise costs $35.98, according to the Greyhound website. A ticket from Portland to Boise is $83.98. Hayes said Greyhound/Flix buses havent stopped in Baker City consistently for the past year or so. He said the bus service was helpful not only for local residents who had no other way to get to Portland or Boise, but also for travelers who had a car breakdown or were otherwise stranded in Baker City. ___ (c)2024 the Baker City Herald (Baker City, Ore.) Visit the Baker City Herald (Baker City, Ore.) at www.bakercityherald.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Portland Thorns, in the midst of a significant roster shakeup, announced Monday that defender Kelli Hubly will not return to the club in 2025. Hubly announced her impending departing on her Instagram story on Monday, saying she is beyond excited for this new chapter. Hublys departure comes after she spent eight seasons with the club and she reportedly will depart the club on Friday. Thorns star forward Sophia Smith expressed her dismay at the news on social media. Not my best friend along with a sad face emoji, then adding I love you forever, Smith wrote on her Instagram story. Hubly was among a number of players who would become free agents after the club released its roster update in December. Defenders Meghan Klingenberg and Becky Sauerbrunn, along with legendary forward Christine Sinclair, were also set to become free agents. Sinclair and Sauerbrunn have each announced their retirement. Hubly made her Thorns debut in 2017, eventually becoming a starter in 2021. Hubly started in 19 of the 20 games she appeared in during the 2024 season. Three people were fatally shot and a teenage boy was left in a coma after an attack on an American family visiting Mexico, authorities said Monday. Brothers Vicente Pena Jr., 38, and Antonio Tony Fernandez, 44, were visiting Durango, Mexico, from their home in Chicago over the weekend, local NBC affiliate WMAQ reported. They were traveling with Penas 14-year-old son, who has not been publicly identified. The three Americans met another relative, 22-year-old Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre, in the city about 300 miles west of Monterrey, according to WMAQ. But cops said the group of four was attacked while driving in a GMC Yukon with Illinois license plates on Friday night in Durangos Las Palmas neighborhood, WMAQ reported. It was a massacre ... because my son was shot four times in the head and once in the shoulder, and the other boy was also shot four times, once in the shoulder, and the other boy who was with them was also shot three times, Vicente Pena Sr. told the station. Pena, Fernandez and Vargas Aguirre were all fatally shot. The 14-year-old boy remained in a coma in a Mexican hospital on Tuesday. No suspects have been arrested or identified, and investigators were unsure whether the attack was random or targeted because the victims were American. Durango is not considered one of the most violent states or cities in Mexico, according to the U.S. State Department. It is listed on the departments website at the same risk level as Mexico City. However, a portion of the state is officially off limits to U.S. government employees, and that portion includes the citys Las Palmas neighborhood where the family was attacked. _____ 2024 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The creatures themselves are not venomous but they make good use of their prey's venom to provide potentially painful encounters. Blue dragons were found on the sand at Redhead Beach in Lake Macquarie, NSW. Source: Caitlin O'Rourke & Instagram/visitlakemac Dog walkers are on high alert after rarely seen "venomous" sea creatures washed ashore at an off-leash Aussie beach over the weekend. Blue dragons were spotted along the shoreline at Redhead Beach in Lake Macquarie, NSW, a popular Christmas holiday destination. Making contact with the usually elusive marine animals can pose health risks to dogs as well as their owners. The tiny sea slugs were spotted peaking out of the sand, and although they look fairly unthreatening at a glance, they can provide a seriously painful encounter. The sea creatures actually store up venom from blue bottles they ingest to then inflict painful stings that cause nausea and vomiting. Due to their small size, growing up to only three centimetres in length, the risk can often be overlooked by beachgoers. And their slightly blue, translucent skin makes them masters of disguise in the water, meaning swimmers often only realise they're there when it's too late. ADVERTISEMENT Last year, beachgoer Julian Obayd, 22, was hospitalised after he attempted to rescue dozens of blue dragons at a Gold Coast beach and has since urged others to steer clear of them. What causes blue dragons to wash ashore on Aussie beaches? The sea slugs usually live in the open ocean and are rarely seen due to their small size and translucent appearance. They wash ashore when they swallow air bubbles, forcing them to be at the mercy of the weather and waves. Occasionally, they are recorded in large numbers on Aussie shorelines when strong winds leave them beached. This most commonly occurs in NSW and Queensland. Hundreds were spotted last month at Coolangatta Beach on the Gold Coast and a marine biologist told Yahoo News that a specific type of wind will push the "absolutely amazing little critters" to shore. ADVERTISEMENT "Persistent moderate northeast winds are the culprit," University of the Sunshine Coast Professor David Schoeman explained. Blue dragons live out in the open ocean and sightings are 'rare'. Source: Miranda Atkinson What should I do if I'm stung by a blue dragon? Instructions on what to do if someone is stung by a blue dragon are similar to the first aid advised after a bluebottle sting, Dr Jaz Lawres from Surf Living Saving Australia told Yahoo News previously. Don't rub the sting area. Rinse the area with seawater not freshwater. Place the sting area in tolerably hot water the patient will ideally have the sting area in the hot water for 20 minutes. If hot water is not available or it does not relief the pain, apply cold packs or ice in a dry plastic bag. Seek medical assistance if symptoms persist. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. The pace of smart home innovation hasnt slowed a whit in 2024, with new products such as the Amazon Echo Show 21 being unveiled just this week. The better news is that the smart home is no longer a niche market appealing only to enthusiasts willing to tolerate steep learning curves. In other words, the waters fine! Come on in! We are, however, still living in a world of smart home silos; namely, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home. The increasingly important Matter standard will unify those ecosystems one day, but that wont happen until Matter incorporates every smart home category. Today, for example, it doesnt account for security cameras or video doorbells. Considering that, weve picked more than one product in several categories, based primarily on which silo your smart home is in. As in years past, the products were awarding best-of-the-year status werent necessarily introduced in 2024, they are the best products in their category regardless of when they were first brought to market. As for whats on the horizon, artificial intelligence is poised to radically change what it means to live in a smart home, but its much to early to pick winners on that front. A York County resident accused of killing one of his business partners and injuring another in a Dec. 13 ambush of gunfire in Maryland was behind on payments to one of the men, according to court documents obtained by PennLive. Maryland investigators say Austin P. Potocki, 30, of Hanover, laid in wait the morning of Dec. 13, then repeatedly shot at Benjamin Billings pickup truck at Wesley Road and Patapsco Road in Finksburg, Carroll County. Billings, 33, was pronounced dead at the scene. The 42-year-old man in his passenger seat, who also was a business partner of Potocki, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators combed the crime scene but were unable to find any shell casings from the murder weapon, which they believe was a .223-caliber rifle. The shooter is believed to have used a device to catch spent shell casings to avoid leaving evidence at the scene, according to the Carroll County Sheriffs Office. Billings passenger told investigators from the sheriffs office that he and Billings were headed to Wawa the morning they were ambushed, according to a search warrant filed in York County. As they stopped at a stop sign at the intersection, Billings passenger said he heard several loud pops and was hit in the left arm. He got out of the truck and ran around the back, then opened the drivers side to put the vehicle in park since Billings was unresponsive behind the wheel, the search warrant said. Investigators said they recovered rifle bullet fragments from the truck and Billings body. Court documents said Billings passenger runs Legacy Pool & Spa, a pool installation business, and had been in business with Potocki, who owns Austins Pool Service and was a subcontractor for Legacy Pool. Billings family told reporters he was the owner of Monzter Earth Movers LLC, an excavation and landscaping company thats affiliated with Legacy Pool. Within days of the shooting, the Legacy Pool owner told investigators he and Potocki had a business deal that involved Potocki paying him $50,000 over five years. However, Potocki had fallen behind on the payments, according to the search warrant. On Dec. 4, the man texted Potocki a screenshot of an unrelated Maryland civil case hed recently won, the warrant said. Just so you understand the situation you are putting yourself in with me and my company, the man texted Potocki, according to court documents. West Manheim Township police assisting the Carroll County Sheriffs Office with their investigation confronted Potocki on Dec. 16, three days after the shooting, in the parking lot of the Walmart on the Baltimore Pike in Hanover. Potocki told police he enjoys hunting but doesnt have a hunting license, and had gone to the area near the Baltimore County and Carroll County line around 6 a.m. on Dec. 13 to scout deer, according to court documents. The documents said Potocki claimed he arrived in the area around 7 a.m. and left about an hour later. After leaving the area, Potocki said he drove around for an unspecified amount of time but was unable to tell police where hed been, according to the search warrant. Court documents said he claimed he arrived home around 10 a.m. after stopping at Walmart in Hanover to buy milk for his wife. Dec. 13 surveillance footage from the Walmart showed Potocki in dark clothing and walking with a limp, the search warrant said. Police said the area where the shooting happened is heavily wooded and at times on a steep slope, making it possible for someone to injure themselves if they were trying to escape in a hurry. Court documents said a witness told police she saw a man dressed in black and carrying a rifle on Tank Road in Finksburg, about 50 minutes before the shooting was reported and less than a mile from the crime scene. During his Dec. 16 conversation with police, Potocki gave vague and untruthful descriptions of the clothing hed been wearing the morning of the shooting, court documents said. When police asked him why he went to Maryland to look for deer, Potocki said hed seen hunters there before and thought it would be a good place to scout, according to the search warrant. Police said Potocki denied owing the Legacy Pool owner money or getting a text from him threatening a lawsuit. Court documents said he claimed he hadnt communicated with the owner in months, but knew where he lived, not far from the shooting scene. Potocki later mentioned to police that hed also been in the area of the Carroll County and Baltimore County line on Dec. 12, the day before the shooting, according to court documents. Police noted in the search warrant that this homicide would have required planning, including the shooter scoping out the crime scene in advance. West Manheim police on Dec. 17 applied for search warrants for Potockis Zachary Drive townhouse and two storage units he rented at Extra Space Storage on Pumping Station Road. Police said they trailed Potocki on Dec. 16 to the storage unit and saw him leave the area within 10 minutes of his arrival. Court documents said officers who searched Potockis home seized the same kind of rifle used in the killing, as well as ammunition, multiple GPS trackers, four hunting suits, two laptops, and other hunting paraphernalia. Potocki was arrested in York County on Dec. 23. He is being held at York County Prison while he awaits extradition to Maryland on charges of homicide and attempted homicide. Online court records show an extradition hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday in front of Judge Joseph C. Adams. Billings brother Morgan Billings told WBAL TV that he traveled for work and was working in Carroll County at the time he was killed. Ben didnt have any enemies. The pool business, I guess, is a retail business, essentially, so I guess you can have some cranky people sometimes. But Im not pointing fingers at anybody, Morgan Billings told reporters. I just, I cant think of a single person that didnt like Ben when they met him. Morgan Billings told the TV station that his brother was an animal lover who was known for his kind and caring personality. He said Billings had rescued people on multiple occasions when he came across a car crash during his travels. Morgan told WBAL TV: I sometimes describe him as a silent hero kind of person, because hes so giving, and he is a self-described not-a-people person, but he somehow finds a way to always be giving to the people around him. A Cape May County man was arrested after police say he interfered with their investigation into the death of an unidentified woman found in a refrigerator abandoned in a New Jersey forest earlier this month. The 46-year-old man is charged with fourth degree obstruction and failure to be fingerprinted after police say he refused to provide his cell phone to investigators probing the womans death, the Press of Atlantic City reported. Her body was found Dec. 22. Cape May County prosecutors asked for the man to be detained Friday, one day after he was originally arrested. The mans attorney said he was a hiker who found the womans body, then waited for State Police to arrive and sent a ping from his phone to help them pinpoint the location, according to a report from BreakingAC, a local news site. The mans attorney, John Tumelty, couldnt immediately be reached by NJ Advance Media to comment Tuesday. State Police did not immediately respond to a request to comment. Charges against the North Cape May man were filed days before New Jersey State Police turned to the public for help in their investigation. On Monday, they released images of the tattoos found on the unidentified womans body when she was discovered in Belleplain State Forest last week. Assistant Prosecutor Ed Shim said in court Monday that police sought the mans cell phone with a warrant because he was in the area of the forest, which spans 21,320 acres across parts of Cape May and Cumberland counties, where the body was found Dec. 22, the Press of Atlantic City reported. A judge agreed to release the man on Monday, the news report said. He was ordered to weekly check-ins with court staff and forbidden from returning to the forest during the investigation. A pre-indictment hearing is scheduled for February, according to judicial records. State Police troopers were called to the forest around 3 p.m. on Dec. 22 after the body was found. Police have not said how the woman may have died. State Police on Sunday released mock-up images of two distinctive tattoos found on the womans body a koi fish on her right shoulder blade and a rose tattoo on her left ribs, from her chest to her hip. They believe she is either Caucasian or Hispanic and about 5 feet tall. Police also released images of a yoga mat and necklace recovered from the scene. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. A 37-year-old man pleaded guilty last week to attacking someone with a knife or boxcutter in February outside a Lancaster County restaurant, prosecutors said. Surveillance cameras recorded Robert Burke stabbing and slashing at a man on Feb. 2 on the first block of West Farnum Street in Lancaster, according to the Lancaster County District Attorneys Office. Prosecutors said Burke, a Salisbury Township resident, had been inside an unnamed restaurant alongside the victim before the stabbing around 10:30 p.m. Lancaster Safety Coalition footage showed Burke fleeing the scene in a car after the stabbing, prosecutors said. The footage helped investigators trace Burkes movements and identify him. At his Dec. 26 sentencing hearing, prosecutors presented Judge Dennis Reinaker with a screenshot of the footage, showing Burke was a good distance from the victim before he chose to close the distance and attack, according to the district attorneys office. The victim suffered cuts to his face, cheek, chin and hand, prosecutors said. After looking at the screenshot, prosecutors said Reinaker sentenced Burke to 210 years in prison on a single count of aggravated assault. Burke was also ordered to pay more than $2,400 in restitution. By Matthew Medsger, Boston Herald (TNS) President Joe Biden has ordered federal offices closed and gave government employees the day off to observe the Jan. 9 funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, which Biden has proclaimed as a National Day of Mourning. Carter died Sunday at the age of 100. He served one term in the White House, from 1977 to 1981. Bidens order dictates that all executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed on January 9, 2025, as a mark of respect for James Earl Carter Jr., the thirty-ninth President of the United States, except in situations where agency or department heads determine the offices must be open or certain employees must work. Carter was a man of character, courage, and compassion, whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential statesmen in our history, Biden said in a message to Congress Sunday night. He embodied the very best of America: A humble servant of God and the people. A heroic champion of global peace and human rights, and an honorable leader whose moral clarity and hopeful vision lifted our nation and changed our world, Biden wrote. After news of Carters passing broke, Biden said in a statement that he would order an official state funeral to be held in his honor in Washington, D.C. Carters funeral plans call for his burial at his home in Plains, Georgia, alongside his wife, Rosalynn. The couples home has been deeded to the National Parks Service. Biden said in a public address Sunday night his administration would see to it that he is remembered appropriately, here in the United States and around the world. The president ordered U.S. flags to half-staff on government buildings for 30 days, as is tradition when a U.S. president dies. CINCINNATI, Ohio A 3-year-old girl was killed last week when she was attacked by two dogs while visiting her fathers home, reports say. WLWT Channel 5 reports the Hamilton County, Ohio, coroners office says Kingsley Wright died from her injuries in the attack on Friday. The girls mother, Gina Smith, tells WLWT her daughter was visiting the home during the holidays. According to WXIX Channel 19, a man who identified himself as Wrights father called 911 on Friday morning and told the dispatcher he woke up to find his daughter dead. The girl reportedly was sleeping on a couch in the home when she was attacked. I just woke up and my daughter is dead. Theres blood everywhere, I dont know what happened, the caller told dispatchers, according to WXIX. I dont understand what went on. The man reportedly told dispatchers that his dogs were in a cage and he didnt know how the attack could have occurred. Smith says she was not aware that the dogs might be dangerous. Reports say the dogs were a terrier breed. I would have not left my baby around vicious dogs. Why would I do that? Smith tells WLWT. WXIX reports Cincinnati Animal CARE took three dogs from the home, and they are being quarantined. When they go into camouflage mode tawny frogmouths are hard to spot, but they can sense exactly where you are. The remarkable defensive skill of a famous Aussie bird has been captured by a passing motorist. Initially unaware of her presence, the family of tawny frogmouths stared wide-eyed towards the camera, but as soon as the car door was opened they appeared to vanish. They were down almost on the ground, which is unusual. Normally theyre up in a tree, Lyn Alcock told Yahoo News after returning from a trip through Dryandra Woodlands National Park, near Perth. I stepped out of the car just thinking, maybe I'll get one or two steps a little bit closer to them, and they immediately narrowed their eyes and lengthened themselves out to make themselves less visible. Want more stories about our weird and wonderful natural world? Subscribe to our newsletter. When the photographer walked closer, the tawny frogmouths appeared to completely close their eyes. Source: Lyn Alcock Hidden detail in tawny frogmouth photograph Gisela Kaplan AM is an emeritus professor at the University of New England, and having written the CSIROs book on tawny frogmouths, shes considered the worlds foremost expert on the species. ADVERTISEMENT Speaking with Yahoo News, she explained that tawnys prefer not to be discovered because unlike owls which catch prey with their talons and have strong beaks, they dont have many fighting skills. Camoflague is their number one protection, she said. Look closely at the photo and you'll notice tawny frogmouths don't completely shut their eyes when they go into camouflage mode. Kaplan explained, "Theyll keep their eye open, just open a slit so they can observe whats around them and if they're going to be in danger." Look closely and youll see the tawny frogmouths keep their eyes slightly open. Source: Lyn Alcock Their favourite trees for camouflage are eucalypts, paperbarks, and peppermint trees because they best resemble the patternation of their feathers. When it comes to nesting they need old native trees with large horizontal branches, an attribute thats becoming increasingly hard to find because so many have been cut down. ADVERTISEMENT Old trees are so very important. Theyre not really nest builders, theyll fuss around for a few weeks and really just put together a few sticks and leaves. When they shuffle about after the little ones have hatched the nest will fall to the ground. And the branch has to be wide enough so the little ones dont fall down, Kaplan said. That's why we need native trees. The European trees all grow branches that grow in a very sharp angle upwards. But the Australian natives, particularly eucalypts, go sideways. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. A long shot interview request by radio show host John Resnick turned into a two decade long friends ship with former President Carter.John Resnick President Jimmy Carters connections to central Pennsylvania ran from the near apocalyptic to the pastoral, from steadying the country in the face of Three Mile Island the worst nuclear disaster on American soil to the peaceful calm of casting his fishing line in Spruce Creek near State College. Carter, who died at 100 on Sunday, also developed deep friendships with Pennsylvanians one of them began with a radio interview. Harrisburg radio talk show host John Resnicks syndicated program, Legends of Success, first aired on WHP-580, focusing largely on business titans. But he wanted to expand the range of the interviews to include former presidents. After striking out with some of them, Resnick said, in 2003 he connected with a Carter staff member. I wanted to talk to all the living presidents, so I made a cold call to the Carter Center in Atlanta, said Resnick, a Harrisburg native. His executive assistant told me, Youre in luck he has a series of interviews over the next three weeks.' He was raising money for the Carter Centers global humanitarian efforts. Resnick recalls they packed a lot of topics into the 20-minute interview but they also forged a long distance connection. When we were off the air he stayed on the phone. We hit it off and he invited me to come visit, he said. Over the next 14 years, Resnick and his wife would make seven or eight excursions to visit with Carter and former first lady Rosalynn Carter at the Carter Center. He was always so gracious, Resnick said. They talked about family, life and his centers successful efforts to virtually wipe out the deadly Guinea worm that once infected 3.5 million people in Africa. There were only 14 human cases reported in 2023. On one occasion Carter shared with Resnick the story of the near failure of the 1978 Camp David peace accords between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. They were packing up to go home, Resnick said Carter told him. But then President Carter showed Sadat a photo of his grandchildren and said, This is who were doing this for. Its not about us. Then he went to Begins room. Pulling out the childrens picture did it. The last time Resnick saw Carter was about 2017. You could tell he was in declining health, said Resnick, who now lives in Florida with his wife Billie, a native of Liverpool, Pa. National politics may not have been his best strength, said Resnick, But he is hands down the greatest humanitarian ex-president America has ever had. Houdini has hopefully made his last escape. After seven years in the Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA in Pine Grove, Houdini, a Boxer-mix with a big heart, has finally found his forever home. The shelter announced Houdinis adoption on its Facebook.page just before Christmas. On Dec. 22, he went home with the Thomas family from Pottsville. They fell in love with him, said shelter manager Becky Worth. Houdini came to the shelter in 2017 as a stray. He was about three years old and healthy, but was not microchipped, she said. He was adopted once, before Worth arrived, but was brought back because he had issues with another dog, she said. Houdini had been locked in the shelter ever since. He didnt get along with other dogs. Thats one of reasons hed been here so long, she said. With humans hes great, so loving." Houdini has a tough-appearing demeanor and a look that kind of scares people, she said. And, since he likely has pit bull in him, some potential adopters said their landlords barred the bully breeds at their properties. So the dog named for the master escape artist sat in his kennel as the years ticked by. A plug on the popular Facebook page, Cheddar Paws helped spread the word about Houdini. The site produces colorful portraits of long term shelter residents throughout the central Pennsylvania region in the hope of finding them their people. Jim Thomas and his wife Cassandra were looking for a new pup after their 14-year-old pit bull, Mayhem, slipped out of their house and was hit by a car in August. Jim said he was devastated by the tragic loss of his dog and wanted to find a long time shelter resident to help. We wanted give tribune to the dog we lost and give the best end of life we could for another dog, he said. It felt like an empty home not having a dog. So Jim saw Houdinis picture on the SPCA site and later on Cheddar Paws, where the pup had developed quite a following. The Thomas' stopped by the shelter last month and it was love at first sight. I thought this poor pup spent three-quarters of his life in the SPCA, said Jim, who was hoping that day that Houdini would play fetch. I took a ball out and before I could throw it he took it out of my hand ran off with it. They returned the Sunday before Christmas and took Houdini home where he was welcomed by their five children. Houdini and Jim Thomas of Pottsville share a moment under the Christmas tree in Houdini's new home.Jim Thomas He was super sweet and he passed the two tests: he was receptive to us and safe around children, said Jim. Worth said she was worried Houdini had become so acclimated to the shelter he wouldnt do well in a home. But he settled in just fine, even finding his spot on the couch. Hes such a well-mannered dog, said Jim. It blows our mind that he was in so long. Hes been a great addition to family almost like having our old pup back. This was a gift from him. The SPCA is hoping Rascal, the Dachshund mix will find his forever home in the new year.Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA Now the no-kill shelter wants to find a home for its longest resident: Rascal, a 9-year-old Dachshund who arrived at just a year old. Worth said he has his quirks which cause some potential adopters to overlook him. You need to leave him alone and let him feel comfortable around you, she said. When he warms up to you, hes great. Hes just waiting for his forever home. By Abraham Gutman, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) The Nobel Prize-winning scientific innovation underlying the COVID-19 vaccine proved to be a notable financial boon for the University of Pennsylvania. And now the Ivy League school in West Philly is set to get nearly half a billion dollars more. Penn will receive $467 million under a settlement with German drug manufacturer BioNTech, which partnered with Pfizer to develop a COVID vaccine that relied on mRNA technology developed at the university. The settlement, disclosed last week in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing, will resolve a lawsuit that Penn filed in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in August, in which the university alleged that BioNTech hasnt paid all the royalties it owes. Penn contended in the complaint that BioNTech has paid royalties only for sales in countries in which the university has patents for the mRNA technology, but that it was supposed to pay royalties on global sales of the BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine. The university also said BioNTech paid a lower royalty rate than Penn is entitled to. Financial information, such as royalty percents and overall payments made, was redacted in the lawsuits. Under the settlement agreement, Penn will receive $400 million in royalties for 2020 through 2023, $15 million for a three-year extension for the companys and Penns vaccine alliance, and $52 million for a research fund that the university and the drugmaker will jointly manage. Pfizer will reimburse BioNTech for $170 million of the $400 million in royalties. Penn agreed to dismiss its lawsuit once it begins to receive payment, according to BioNTechs filing. The university did not respond to a request for comment. The settlement does not in any way constitute an admission of liability with respect to any allegation raised by Penn, all of which the Company expressly denies, BioNTech said in the SEC filing. FILE - A vial of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 12 years old sits ready for use at a vaccination site in Fort Worth, Texas, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021. Kids ages 5 to 11 should get a booster dose of Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine, advisers to the U.S. government said Thursday, May 19, 2022. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File) BioNTech declined to comment beyond the information it provided to the SEC. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine that rolled out in late 2020 utilizes patented technology that was developed by Penn researchers Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman, who won the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine in 2023 for their work. Penn licensed the technology to BioNTech and Moderna in August 2020 through a subsidiary, Cellscript LLC, in return for royalties from sales. The settlements $400 million in back royalties brings Penns total windfall from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to at least $2 billion through 2023. Data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' Open Payment system, which tracks transactions from pharmaceutical and medical device companies to health-care providers and teaching hospitals, show that Penn received $1.6 billion in royalties from BioNTech between 2021 and 2023. Data for 2024 are not yet available. Penn has also been receiving royalties from Moderna, but estimating those is more difficult. Experts previously told The Inquirer that the royalties are likely in the hundreds of millions if the agreement is within industry standards. BioNTech also disclosed last week a settlement with the National Institutes of Health for $791.5 million, including $750 million in royalties for patents held by the U.S. government. Pfizer will reimburse BioNTech for $364.5 million for its share. As in the Penn settlement, BioNTech noted that the agreement is not an admission of liability. (c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Author: Jennifer J. Lee, Temple University Philadelphia is whats known as a sanctuary city. While the term has no fixed definition, it usually refers to a city that has declared its refusal to cooperate or even works at odds with federal immigration enforcement. Will living in a sanctuary city safeguard Phillys roughly 50,000 undocumented immigrants and their families if President-elect Donald Trump delivers on his promise to deport a record number of immigrants? As a law professor at Temple University in Philadelphia, where I supervise students who represent low-wage immigrant workers in the city, including on issues of immigration enforcement, I know that sanctuary policies are meaningful in that they throw a wrench into the federal immigration enforcement system. But the bottom line is that federal immigration officers usually U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement can still carry out deportations in a sanctuary city. Living in a sanctuary city such as Philadelphia does not mean that city residents are otherwise safe from ICE. Phillys sanctuary policies Through my work at the Sheller Center for Social Justice at Temple Law School, I have researched sanctuary policies as well as how often ICE relies on local law enforcement to help identify and turn over immigrants. Philadelphias various sanctuary policies, which Ill describe below, break that connection and leave ICE to its own devices. They also signal to immigrants that the city is not in the business of federal immigration enforcement. This is significant for immigrant communities, as it means they should feel safe to access public benefits and services such as getting care at a community health center or calling the police without fear of immigration consequences. Protestors participate in an Abolish ICE march through downtown Philadelphia in 2018. Bastiaan Slabbers/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesBastiaan Slabbers/NurPhoto via Getty Images Philadelphias most notable sanctuary policy, an executive order signed by then-Mayor Jim Kenney in January 2016, is its refusal to have its jails honor ICE detainers or requests for release dates. An ICE detainer is a voluntary request asking local officials to hold an immigrant, who is otherwise going to be released, for an additional 48 hours so ICE can pick them up. Failing to honor ICE detainers disrupts the deportation pipeline and makes ICEs job more difficult. Another key Philadelphia sanctuary policy dates back to 2009 and was signed by then-mayor Michael Nutter. It makes clear that city officials do not police immigration. Not only are all city workers including police, firefighters and behavioral health workers prohibited from asking about immigration status in most situations, but police are specifically directed not to stop, arrest or detain a person solely because of perceived immigration status. Yet there is no way to enforce these sanctuary policies. Under these laws, city officials who violate them do not face consequences. Compliance relies on a commitment from officials who believe that following these policies is the right thing to do. Philadelphia has also acted in other ways to break the link between the city and immigration enforcement. As of 2017, Philadelphia jails have had a protocol that discourages ICE from interviewing immigrants held in jail. Prior to providing ICE with access to such individuals, the jails must first send a consent form to an immigrant to inform them of their right to decline an ICE interview. In 2018, Philadelphia ended ICEs access to the citys Preliminary Arraignment Reporting System, or PARS records database, used by the Philadelphia Police Department and district attorneys office. The city said it terminated its database-sharing contract with ICE given the unacceptable way the agency used the system, which could result in immigration enforcement action against Philadelphians who havent been arrested, accused of, or convicted of any crime. Sanctuary campuses and churches Apart from the city itself, other public and private institutions within Philadelphia have created sanctuary spaces. The University of Pennsylvania, for example, declared itself a sanctuary campus in November 2016, stating that the university would refuse to allow ICE entry onto Penn grounds without a warrant. In June 2021, the School Board of Philadelphia adopted a sanctuary resolution as part of an effort to create welcoming schools for immigrant children. Meanwhile, religious institutions, such as the Germantown Mennonite Church in Northwest Philly and the Tabernacle United Church in West Philly, have provided sanctuary inside their churches to immigrants who have received final orders of deportation from ICE. Since 2011, ICE has had a sensitive locations memo that disfavors, but does not entirely prohibit, immigration enforcement in places of worship, as well as hospitals and schools. The Biden administration strengthened the sensitive locations memo in 2021. Trump reportedly intends to rescind the policy, as soon as his first day in office. Activists want Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker to commit to defending Philadelphias sanctuary policies if the incoming Trump administration ramps up immigration enforcement.Matt Rourke/AP Retaliation against sanctuary cities From the viewpoint of the incoming Trump administration, sanctuary cities harbor dangerous immigrants. Despite an abundance of strong rhetoric, data shows that less than 6% of deportation cases brought under the previous Trump administration from 2017 to 2019 were based on criminal grounds. Nonetheless, the incoming administration has vowed to punish sanctuary cities by cutting their federal funding, particularly funds earmarked for local law enforcement. Past instances of retaliation, however, failed. The first Trump administration was unsuccessful at terminating a US$1 million federal grant to Philadelphia after the city sued and won in federal court. During the campaign, Trump proposed getting Congress to ban sanctuary cities. This effort will similarly be mired in legal challenges. Cities, like states, have constitutional protectionsagainst being forced to administer or enforce federal programs. Yet retaliation attempts against sanctuary cities by the federal government seem likely. Philadelphia City Council member Rue Landau has been outspoken about maintaining the citys sanctuary status to ensure that public resources will never be used to support federal deportation efforts. But Mayor Cherelle Parker has not committed to strengthening or even ensuring the citys sanctuary protections. While sanctuary policies do not prevent undocumented immigrants from being deported, they do represent cities exercising the right to define their community and promote a sense of belonging in direct resistance to federal policies. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/yes-philadelphia-is-a-sanctuary-city-but-that-offers-undocumented-immigrants-little-protection-from-mass-deportations-245129. Strawberries, bologna, and roses wont be the only things falling from the sky to celebrate the start of 2025. Widespread, albeit light, rains are also in the forecast for south central Pennsylvania on New Years Eve. So if youre headed out to a communal celebration, have your best outdoor gear at the ready. Thats the latest advice from National Weather Service meteorologists in State College, who note the highest chances of rain on New Years Eve night are expected from about 8 p.m. Tuesday through 2 a.m. Wednesday. Meteorologist Ashley Evans said total rainfall of less than a quarter-inch is expected from a cold front passing through, but it will be persistent and it will cover the entire region, so make sure you have your rain gear with you because youre going to get wet. Silver lining? It will only be rain though, as overnight lows are expected to stay in the low 40s. So icy roads wont be an issue. Colder air will move in later on a noticeably windy New Years Day as the region dries out, with forecast overnight lows in the low 30s. Temperatures will then stay seasonably cold, with daytime highs in the mid-to-low 30s and overnight lows in the 20s through the weekend. There is no significant snow in the forecast at present, Evans said. Here is a link to the National Weather Service forecast through Monday, Jan. 6. China, U.S. should expand list and make bigger pie of cooperation 11:01, December 31, 2024 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily China and the United States recently signed a protocol to extend the 45-year-old Agreement Between the United States and China on Cooperation in Science and Technology for additional five years. The international community widely welcomes the renewal of the agreement. They believe that sci-tech cooperation between China and the U.S. not only serves the interests of both peoples but also facilitates their joint efforts in addressing global challenges. This once again demonstrates that China-U.S. cooperation can lead to fruitful results that are beneficial to both countries and the rest of the world. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 45 years ago, China-U.S. relations have gone through the tests of winds and rains but have largely sustained a positive momentum. From the "Ping-Pong Diplomacy" that broke the ice of bilateral relations to the group "Kuliang Friends" that continued the legacy of friendship, each small step of "harmony" and "cooperation" between China and the U.S. has injected impetus into the historical development of their relationship. Over the past four years, China-U.S. relations have gone through ups and downs, but the two sides have also been engaged in dialogue and cooperation. The relationship has remained stable on the whole. Facts have proved that when the two countries treat each other as partners and seek common ground while shelving differences, their relationship will make considerable progress. But if they regard each other as rivals and pursue vicious competition, they will roil the relationship or even set it back. To steer China-U.S. relations to the right course and foster a stable, sustainable and productive China-U.S. relationship, it is necessary to draw inspiration from the past experiences and grasp the general direction of bilateral cooperation. The interests of China and the U.S. have been closely intertwined. Win-win cooperation is a defining feature of bilateral relations, and dialogue and cooperation remain the only right choice for the two countries. The total trade between China and the U.S. has exceeded $660 billion. Over 70,000 American companies are doing business in China, earning a profit of $50 billion annually. In terms of employment, exports to China alone support 930,000 jobs in the U.S. Chinese products have not only offered American customers more choices, but also lowered costs for them, and Chinese investment has not only created more jobs in the U.S., but also bolstered local economies. Around two-thirds of Qualcomm's global revenue and a quarter of Intel's global revenue come from the Chinese market. Out of Apple's 200 major suppliers worldwide, over 80 percent have set up factories in China. Tesla alone accounted for 28.6 percent of China's new energy vehicle exports last year. These examples illustrate the vast potential for China-U.S. cooperation. The two countries stand to gain mutual benefits and win-win outcomes from cooperation. The two sides should expand the list of cooperation and make a bigger pie of cooperation based on their complementary advantages. The success of one side should be an opportunity rather than a challenge for the other, and one's achievement should help rather than hinder the development of the other. The world economy is facing many difficulties and challenges, and each country faces its own set of challenges. The right choice is to build an open world economy through cooperation. Neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution. "Small yard, high fences" is not what a major country should do. History and facts have proved that tariff war, trade war, and tech war are against the trend of history and laws of economies. Imposing restrictions or engaging in unilateralism and protectionism will inevitably disrupt normal trade cooperation and the stability of industrial and supply chains. It is a clear-cut choice that China and the U.S. should choose cooperation over confrontation, and win-win cooperation over zero-sum games. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers recently said that centuries of economic studies and past practical experiences have shown that for major economies, initiating a global trade war is a highly detrimental choice. China's foreign policy is open and transparent. It is focused on managing its own affairs well to bring better lives to its people. While realizing its own development, it is also ready to work with other countries for common development and to jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind. China's policy toward the U.S. is highly stable and consistent. Its goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged; its commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-U.S. relations remains unchanged; its position of resolutely safeguarding China's sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged; and its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged. The one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques are the political foundation of China-U.S. relations. They must be observed. The Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, China's path and system, and China's development right are four red lines for China. They must not be challenged. These are the most important guardrails and safety nets for China-U.S. relations. Misjudging China-U.S. relations and misinterpreting China's development will mislead the people of both countries and the international community, resulting in more harm than good. The U.S. should view China and its development in a positive and rational light, so as to maintain a right strategic perception, which is fundamental to the China-U.S. relationship, just like the first button of a shirt that must be put right. Both China and the U.S. are great nations, and cooperation between them is a noble endeavor. The U.S. should work with China in the same direction to find a right way for the two countries with different civilizations, systems, and paths to coexist in peace and achieve common development on this planet. (Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.) (Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming) The Australian government has allocated $32.1 million to help border officials enforce the ban from January 1, 2025. As we enter 2025, engineered stone products will now be stopped at the Australian border. Source: Getty After years of harrowing stories of young Aussie tradies becoming sick and even dying at a young age, a new ban will officially come into effect from today. And industry insiders say it will permanently close a deadly "loophole". Engineered stone had become a common material in the building of Aussie homes over the years, used in kitchen benchtops in properties across the country. But from January 1, the federal government will strengthen restrictions on it, banning imports from entering Australia. As most engineered stone products are imported into the country, it will provide a genuine deterrence at the border and should help stamp out the use of the potentially harmful product. Speaking to Yahoo News, Dr Renee Carey from Curtin University, who has researched the prevalence and impact of silicosis in Australia, welcomed what she called the "closing of a loophole" when it comes to engineered stone, saying the change from 2025 will help save thousands of lives. ADVERTISEMENT Those working with engineered stone and modifying it risk inhaling very harmful silica dust (crystalline silica) which is found in certain stone products. The dust is 100 times smaller than a grain of sand and you can be breathing it in without even knowing. According to the Cancer Council of Australia, exposure to silica dust can lead to the development of lung cancer, silicosis (an irreversible scarring and stiffening of the lungs), kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A significant volume of new homes and apartments are currently under construction and scheduled to be built over next few years, many already containing the material. Source: Supplied A 2022 study by researchers at Curtin University that helped highlight the dangers of the product estimated more than half a million Australian workers were being exposed to silica dust, with Bunnings and Ikea bowing to pressure the following year to stop selling the product. In the same research, Dr Carey and colleagues tried to estimate how many people were using engineered stone in Australia to get a true picture of the damage. ADVERTISEMENT "We came up with what we thought was an OK estimate, and then we modelled forward to see what the future outcome would be in terms of disease," she told Yahoo. "We had about 4,500 people using engineered stone in our estimates," she said. "One in four were developing silicosis. So it was quite high". "Our modelling also predicted an engineered stone ban would prevent around 100 Australians from developing lung cancer and around 770 to 960 workers from being diagnosed with silicosis." In July 2024, Australia implemented a total ban on the domestic use, supply, and manufacture of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs across Australia. But the import ban takes it one important step further. "From the start of next year, it won't only be illegal to install these products. It will be illegal to bring them into the country at all," the federal Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke said in September. The Government provided $32.1 million over two years to the Australian Border Force to enforce the import prohibition in this year's Budget. Bans come too late for hundreds of Aussie tradies The potential harm of silica has been known about for decades. "[But] engineered stone only came into the market say 20 years ago and the first reported case of silicosis from engineered stone was from 2015," Dr Carey explained to Yahoo. ADVERTISEMENT Since then our understanding of the lethal harms have grown to the point of ushering in the outright ban. But one person who wasnt lucky enough to know of the dangers in time is 35-year-old Tasmanian tradie Ben Harrison. After moving back to his home state of Tasmania with his partner and three young sons, Ben received a phone call that changed his life forever. "My friends in Queensland, they called me saying one of my friends was sick and was about to die. They said I needed testing," he recalled to Yahoo News last year. Ben's friend and previous co-worker Anthony White had been diagnosed with silicosis. Sixteen months later he was dead. Ben Harrison was unknowingly exposed to dangerous silica dust for years before he was diagnosed with silicosis. Source: Supplied Then Ben himself was diagnosed with the same disease one day before his 30th birthday. And doctors soon told him it was terminal. "At first I sort of didn't take it seriously, to be honest. I didn't think I had a chance in hell and having it. But then I was diagnosed, and I was in shock. After that was kind of a blur." ADVERTISEMENT Ben explained he had "no idea" of the dangers associated with silicon-based kitchen benchtops and was never provided with informative or preventative measures to protect himself and his co-workers by employers when he worked with the material. "On a busy day we couldn't see each other it was that dusty," Ben recalls of his work cutting the benchtops. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. The Jigawa State Government has approved the release of N1 billion for the purchase of a 10 per cent stake in the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO). The governments spokesperson, Sagir Ahmad, announced this late Monday after the state Executive Council Meeting presided over by Governor Umar Namadi. He said the council approved the payment as part of the MoU signed to acquire 500,000 units of KEDCO shares, from Future Energies Africa Limited, the core investors in the power distribution company. The strategic partnership will enable Jigawa State Government to consolidate its earlier 7.5% shareholding to 10% in the company. Similarly, the MoU is aimed at ensuring adequate provision of constant electricity supply to all tier 1 Urban Centers and Rural electrification in the State by the year 2028 Mr Ahmad said. He added that the initiative was In line with the administrations 12-Points Agenda to provide adequate electricity supply to both urban and rural areas to boost economic activities across the state. Future Energies Africa had in November 2023 completed the acquisition of KEDCO and emerged the new core investor after successfully restraining the sale to PowerCom in July through legal action. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The power distribution company has Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states as its business franchise areas. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print As 2024 comes to a wrap, Nigerian music and musicians have proven that they are not slowing down anytime soon. In 2024, the likes of Wizkid, Tems, Rema, and Yemi Alade not only showcased the vibrancy of Naija music but also its global influence. They proved that Nigerian music, especially Afrobeats, is a passing trend and a powerful movement that will continue to grow and resonate with audiences worldwide. Still in the Euphoria of enjoying the great music 2024 has offered, from Morayo to Out in the Wild to Heis, Nigerian artistes like Davido, BurnaBoy, and Omaha Lay are bracing to hit us with albums that will stir up the flames come 2025. Expectations are high, as singles from these albums are already making the rounds. [Davidos 5ive is set to drop in March, BurnaBoys No Sign Of Weakness in June, and Omaha Lays Clarity Of Mind in September]. Check out the most anticipated albums of 2025 below. Davido 5ive From his forthcoming album 5ive, Davido has released Awake featuring YG Marley and Funds featuring Odumodu Blvck and Chike. These songs are already making waves, thus igniting expectations of what the album will offer. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later In addressing his forthcoming album, what to expect, Davido said, This one is straight from the heart my story, my truth, my growth. This ones for the dreamers, the go-getters, and everyone chasing whats theirs! Thank you for riding with me. Lets make history again. Burnaboy No Sign Of Weakness No Sign of Weakness is one of the most anticipated albums of 2025. To give us a taste of what will be, the Grammy winner dropped a track from the yet-to-be-released album Bundle by Bundle, which has turned out to be proof that he will be dropping yet another masterpiece next year, 2025. BurnaBoy also shared his thoughts on No Sign of Weakness , saying, This album reflects my journey, struggles, and triumphs. I hope it resonates with my fans as much as it does with me. Omah Lay Clarity Of Mind In 2023, the AfroBeat sensation who came to the limelight with his soft, eased, stressless style in 2020 during the COVID era complained of being depressed. His proposed 2025 album, Clarity Of Mind, suggests that hes in a better place. His hit single already serves as a glimpse into the evolution of his sound as it blends AfroBeats, R&B, and soul. Qing Madi I Am The Blueprint Qing Madi is a music sensation and probably the most celebrated TIKTOK celebrity in Nigeria. She has proven that she can do more than just TIKTOKing. With her hit singles American Love and Ole, she delivers a fresh sound that blends AfroBeats, Pop, and Soul. This has grown her followership, and the anticipation for her debut album, I Am The Blueprint, stirs anticipation. Lojay Lojay has enjoyed the impact of his singles Monalisa and his collaboration with Davido and Chris Brown on Sensational. The world waits in anticipation of what he brings as the excitement for his debut album lurks around 2025. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ekiti State has hosted the maiden edition of the World Iyan Carnival, with the states rich culture displayed colourfully with thrilling performances. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Iyan (pounded yam) is a local cuisine peculiar to Ekiti indigenes. On Monday, Ade Ajayi, carnival convener, said the carnival was meant to showcase Ekitis rich culture and improve the states economic status through tourism. He says the carnival theme is Agrotourism: A New Frontier For Sustainable Tourism And Economic Development. Mr Ajayi said the recent event at Midas Arena in Ado-Ekiti was anchored on four transformative initiatives. He said these initiatives included cultivating 50 million yam tubers, documenting the origin of Iyan in partnership with Netflix, Aafin Iyan Resort, and the annual Iyan Carnival. Mr Ajayi said the event featured cultural displays of Ekiti and Idoma people, yam presentations, Oriki Iyan, panel discussions, Omoge Iyan pageants, and dance performances. World Iyan Day He noted that 27 December was mapped out as World Iyan Day during the carnival. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later We are excited to see this initiative and its pillars come to life today. The 50 million tubers cultivation; the origin of the Iyan epic documentary; the Aafin Iyan Resort and the carnival proper. We also announce the launch of a groundbreaking initiative in agricultural financing Office to Farm Agricultural Credit -the first of its kind in Nigerias history, he said. Mr Ajayi noted that the initiative resulted from a 7-year research journey focused on developing innovative agriculture financing models under the World Iyan Carnival (WIC) platform. He said this model aligned with one of his core pillars: cultivating 50 million tubers of yam and providing opportunities for civil servants, private sector workers, NGOs, and organisations to invest in and benefit from agricultural wealth creation. Through strategic partnerships with financial institutions and Africas leading blockchain technology company, we have developed a platform that bridges the gap between the office and the farm. It allows salary earners and institutions to actively participate in financing and trading, not just tubers but other crops, thereby fostering a new era of agricultural wealth in Nigeria. This initiative is a key contribution to the Renewed Hope Campaign, which aims to revitalise Nigerias agricultural sector and unlock its potential for sustainable economic growth. Beginning in the first quarter of 2025, we will launch this initiative across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, starting from the western region. We are inviting financial institutions, public and private sector players, and all stakeholders to join us in making this vision a reality. Members of the World Iyan Cooperative will be the first to enjoy these benefits, and we encourage others to register and become part of this transformative journey, the carnival convener said. Government functionaries, including the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Agricultural Extension, Olowoyo Sikiru, attended the maiden World Iyan Carnival. The Director-General of the Ekiti Bureau of Tourism, Wale Ojo-Lanre, and many others were also in attendance. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A 31-year-old man, Segun Olowokere, has been released from Kirikiri prison after 10 years of being on death row for armed robbery. Mr Olowookere and his co-suspect, Sunday Morakinyo, were arrested in Oyan, Odo-Otin Local Government of Osun State in November 2010. They were arrested for armed robbery during which they stole hens and eggs. They were sentenced to death by the Osun State High Court, Ikirun Division, on 17 December 2014. Their ordeal went viral recently during which some commentators questioned how they could have been sentenced to death for stealing hens and eggs. However, the Osun State judiciary on 26 December justified the death penalty imposed 10 years ago on Mr Olowokere and his accomplice. Speaking through the Chief Registrar of the Osun State High Court, F. I. Omisade, the states judiciary said the facts of the case had been distorted and maliciously misrepresented. The court said its records showed that the two convicts had a history of robbery. According to the chief registrars statement, both men were going about in Oyan town and its neighbourhood robbing innocent and unsuspecting people at gunpoint. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Luck ran out on them in April 2010 when they were caught in action while robbing a poultry farm. Arms were recovered from them. They equally confessed to committing several armed robberies, the statement added. It added that the punishment prescribed by the law for such offences was hanging to death. The chief registrar noted that Mr Olowokere was not underage when he committed the crime and was properly prosecuted. He said the convict was 19, not 17, then. The statement did not indicate the current status of Mr Olowokeres accomplice or whether he was still in prison. Road to Freedom Mr Olowokeres parents, some human rights groups, and other Nigerians pleaded for his release, saying the judgement outweighed the offence. Recently, his parents were seen in a podcast crying and pleading that their only child be pardoned. The podcast is believed to have reached Governor Adesola Adeleke, who later pardoned Mr Olowokere and ordered his release. Recent development Mr Olowokere was released on Monday. Celebrating his release on her Instagram page, actress Abiola Adebayo shared a video she shot with him. This is Segun Olowokere. We are just leaving Kirikiri. Hes finally out of the correctional centre, she said. Thank you so much for the love we get. Thank you so much for the support. She also thanked the Osun governor and appealed to Nigerians to support Mr Olowokere with a job and gifts. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian military has described the notorious bandit and terrorist leader, Bello Turji, as a dead man walking. Mr Turji is a notorious terrorist and bandit leader operating in North-western Nigeria, particularly Zamfara, Sokoto and Niger states. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, stated this while briefing journalists on the operations of the military in 2024, on Tuesday in Abuja. Mr Buba said it was important to realise that terrorists exist for the sake of war and must be destroyed for the sake of peace. He said the troops had sustained pressure on the terrorist enclaves, hideouts, and strongholds as an incentive to speedily defeat the terrorists and hastily end the war. During the course of the year, troops eliminated thousands of terrorists and also their commanders and combatants among others. We are also sure that similar fate awaits those parading themselves as terror leaders and commanders today. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Take it from me, he (Turji) is merely a dead man walking, as he will soon follow suit with many others that have been eliminated during the course of the year. To refresh your memory, I will read out some of the names of notable terrorist leaders that we have taken out since January this year. These include: Halilu Sububu, Dutse Mainasara Idda, Mallam Saleh Umaru, Mohammed Amadu, Abubakar Musa, Adamu Tanko Ibrahim, Yellow Dogon Rakumi, Isiya Boderi and Alhaji Baldu. Others are: Usman Modi Modi, Kachalla Halilu, Kachalla Tukur, Amir Ibrahim Bukar, Saidu Hassan Yellow, Buba Kachalla Bukar, Bakura Jega, Abba Tukur amongst others, he said. Mr Buba, a major-general, said the military would not hesitate to defend the country from terror attacks with overwhelming military force to continue to deliver tangible benefits for all Nigerians. He said that several terrorist leaders, combatants and their families also surrendered as a result of the intensity of troops operations. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has suspended the chairman and board members of the Nasarawa State Teachers Service Commission over the unapproved employment of over 1,000 teachers by the commission. The governor had previously directed that only duly recruited teachers should receive their full entitlements. This was contained in a statement made by his assistant on social media, Godwin Rimi, on Monday in Lafia, the state capital. The suspension was prompted by public outcry over allegations of non-payment of salaries. According to Mr Rimi, during a meeting at the Government House, the management of the Teachers Service Commission admitted to having hired over 1,000 teachers without the proper approval of the governor. The governor has also set up a committee to investigate the illegal recruitment. READ ALSO: Fire devastates Nasarawas popular market The move aims to address the concerns of the affected teachers and ensure transparency in the recruitment process, the statement said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Some of the 38 officers of the Nigerian Army illegally dismissed from service in 2016 have written an appeal letter to the federal government, demanding their reinstatement and payment of their salaries and emoluments. PREMIUM TIMES reported how Danladi Hassan, a colonel, and 37 others were compulsorily retired on 09 June 2016 without being charged by a court martial or found guilty of any offence under the Armed Forces extant rules and regulations. Mr Hassan had in 2014 led troops to reclaim Bulabulin and Damboa from Boko Haram insurgents. Commissioned in September 1994, the senior military officer had taken part in several foreign missions including the ECOMOG operations in Liberia, and Sierra Leone, as well as the United Nations Mission in Sudan. PREMIUM TIMES learnt that of the officers, Baba Ochankpa, a colonel, died in 2017. The letter, seen by our reporter, was written on behalf of the officers by Falana and Falanas Chamber, a law firm co-owned by human rights lawyer Femi Falana, a senior advocate. The letter was dated 5 December and addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi. Forced to retire: The travails of the 38 officers Mr Hassan and his colleagues said they learnt about their compulsory retirement in the media. Without any basis, the Minister of Defense and the Chief of Army Staff at the material time, alleged in the media that our clients were professionally corrupt and that they were punished after due process, Falana and Falanas Chambers wrote in the letter. Contrary to the libellous statement of both highly placed public officers, our clients were never accused nor tried for corruption or any other offence whatsoever. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Hassan and his colleagues subsequently petitioned the military leadership at the time, but the petitions were ignored. As the said petitions were ignored, our clients had no other option but to ventilate their grievances in the National Assembly, while seven of them sought legal redress at the National Industrial Court, the law firm wrote. The battle for reinstatement The seven officers who approached the National Industrial Court include Ijioma Ijioma, a major-general; Abubakar Saad, a brigadier-general, and Muhammed Suleiman, a colonel. The four others Dukip Dazang, Thomas Arigbe, Abdulfatai Muhammed and Abubakar Mohammed were lieutenant colonels. Ruling in their favour between 2019 and 2021, the National Industrial Court declared their compulsory retirement illegal and ordered that they should be immediately reinstated. The court also ordered the payment of their outstanding salaries and allowances. Even though the judgments delivered in favour of the seven claimants by the National Industrial Court were not challenged at the Court of Appeal, the authorities of the Nigerian Army have refused to comply with the terms of the judgments despite several requests made by our clients, the law firm added. The law firm also noted that since the judgments were delivered between 2019 and 2021, the right to appeal against them has expired. On 8 January 2019, Mr Hassan took a similar step. He won his case at the National Industrial Court which ruled among other things the reinstatement of Mr Hassan. To challenge the judgment, the Nigerian Army filed an appeal but it lost it. In a clear disregard for court orders, the Nigerian Army, according to Mr Falanas law firm, claimed in a letter dated 07 October 2022 that Colonel Hassan is no longer promotable and will not be 100% loyal to his juniors who have since been promoted as Generals in the Nigerian Army. The law firm added that the army stated that Mr Hassan could not be reinstated because he had had a broken service experience. In 2016, however, the Nigerian Army had reinstated one Ahmadu Muhammed, a Major-General, the law firm noted, arguing that that was contrary to the untenable reasons for the disobedience of the court orders. While others challenged their forceful retirement in courts, two of the 38 officers Chidi Ukoha and Osita Nwankwo approached the Senate and House of Representatives to seek redress. Both chambers independently investigated their petitions and respectively observed that there was no basis for their compulsory retirement and therefore recommended their reinstatement, Mr Falanas law firm stated, adding the Nigerian Army ignored the resolutions of both chambers. Pleas The law firm pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the judgments and orders of all courts are complied with. We urge you to use good offices to direct the authorities of the Nigerian Army to implement the judgments of the National Industrial Court and the Court of Appeal as well as the resolutions of the National Assembly on the subject matter, the law firm urged the president. Specifically, it demanded the immediate reinstatement of all the listed officers into the Nigerian Army with effect from June 2016. It also called for the restoration of the listed officers to the current rank and the seniority of their coursemates in the Nigerian Army. Lastly, the law firm demanded the payment of salaries and emoluments from June 2016 to the affected officers. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), Abdu Mukhtar, has highlighted plans to reduce Nigerias dependence on imported drugs, vaccines, and medical devices. Mr Mukhtar, during a recent appearance on Your Voice podcast powered by President Bola Tinubus Media Centre, said the initiative aims to increase local drug production from 20 per cent to 80 per cent by 2030. He said Nigerias dependence on imported drugs currently stands at 80 per cent. If you look at the current situation in Nigeria, we import about 80 per cent of the medical drugs and therapeutics, about 100 per cent of the vaccines, and about 99 per cent of the medical devices, including test kits that we use in this country, he said. So what the presidential initiative is supposed to address is to be able to reverse those numbers. Addressing drug importation Mr Tinubu established PVAC in October 2023 as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at transforming Nigerias healthcare ecosystem and establishing the nation as a global hub for health products and technology manufacturing. Nigerias healthcare system has been shaped by decades of dependency on imported pharmaceuticals, vaccines and even basic diagnostic tools. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later This has led to severe consequences on the country, including skyrocketing medication costs and drug insecurity. According to the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mojisola Adeyeye, the countrys dependence on foreign products rather than locally manufactured ones significantly contributes to these challenges. Ms Adeyeye, who spoke in May at a webinar organised by The Cable Newspaper, pointed out that the quantity of locally manufactured drugs remains lower compared to those produced by foreign pharmaceutical companies and imported into the country. She added that all the items used for manufacturing drugs locally are also imported. According to her, this has contributed significantly to drug insecurity and restricted access to medication and medical care caused by an over-inflated cost. Initiative goals Mr Mukhtar explained that the initiatives goals include increasing local production of medical drugs, reducing outbound medical tourism, and creating jobs across the healthcare value chain. We spend almost $2 billion every year on our citizens going abroad to receive healthcare in different parts of the world, including some African countries, in Asia, US and so on. So the second mandate is to reduce that, he said. Then the third one is to create jobs across the various parts of the healthcare value chain. You know, the healthcare value chain is very extensive, you can create value everywhere, but the value should be translated into jobs. To achieve these goals, he said the government will strengthen regulatory institutions like NAFDAC to strengthen their capacity to regulate products and establish new research and development capabilities in medicine and healthcare. He added that the initiative also aims to reduce medical tourism by building specialised hospitals, and diagnostic facilities, and training specialised doctors and nurses. Strategies for local production Mr Mukhtar emphasised that the initiative aims to make Nigeria a leader in vaccine development and production, with Nigerian-made drugs, vaccines, and devices available not only locally but also across West Africa, Africa, and globally. He also spoke on the benefits of the Nigeria governments executive order to remove Value Added Tax (VAT) on importing equipment and raw materials, making it easier for local manufacturers to produce high-quality medicines and medical devices. He emphasised strategic partnerships from various sectors, including the private and public sectors, institutions, stakeholders, and donors, adding that Nigeria needs to harness the power of the Nigerian diaspora, comprising talented and respected professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Resident doctors at the Ondo State University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH), have begun an indefinite strike over the non-payment of hazard allowances and poor working conditions. The strike action, which began on Monday, followed a peaceful protest within the hospitals premises. PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the health workers downed tools after repeated unmet demands by the hospitals management. The doctors are demanding, amongst other issues, the immediate resolution to irregularities and discrepancies in salary payments, as well as the full implementation of the new minimum wage. They are also calling for an end to illegal deductions from their salaries, a review of exorbitant tax payments, and payment of all hazard allowance arrears. Doctors demands Speaking with journalists, the President of ARD in the state, Olaogbe Kehinde, said the strike action became inevitable because the doctors were overstretched and could no longer work due to the non-payment of their arrears. Mr Kehinde said many doctors in the state had resigned from their jobs while others left without prior notification due to poor working conditions. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He stated that the hospitals management had ignored their request for a review of these conditions. We demand the correction of irregularities and discrepancies in salary payments, the implementation of the new minimum wage scale, and parity in salary payments with other tertiary hospitals as stipulated in the teaching hospital constitution, among other issues, he said. Mr Kehinde said the strike action was a difficult decision, but the doctors could no longer work under conditions that undermine their well-being and compromise patients care. He urged the state government to expedite payment of all outstanding salaries and allowances, improve working conditions at the three centres across the state, and ensure prompt implementation of their demands. We deeply regret any inconvenience this strike may cause to patients and the public, he said. In his remarks, the Immediate past President of ARD, John Matthew, stated that the disparity between the salaries of doctors in Ondo State and those in other states is significant, largely due to illegal deductions and taxes. Mr Matthew noted that many doctors in the state have taken up appointments in other states. We will not return to work until our demands are met. Money is the core issue because that is what is driving doctors away, he said. There is a huge disparity in payment between Ondo and Ogun States. Doctors will go to states that are offering them good welfare packages but they are worsening the terrible welfare here. Ongoing efforts The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Gbala Micheal, pleaded with the striking doctors for more time to enable management address their grievances. Mr Micheal said the state government would invite the striking doctors to a meeting and address their agitations. The doctors had in April embarked on a 14-day warning strike, citing the same reasons. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Gunmen have killed two security operatives in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigerias South-east. The attack occurred at about 11:20 a.m. on Monday. The police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Monday night. Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said apart from the security operatives, five residents were also shot dead by the hoodlums during the attack. The spokesperson did not specifically mention the security operatives who were shot dead by the attackers. However, photographs attached to the statement indicated that those killed by the hoodlums were personnel of the Anambra State Vigilante Group. How the attack occurred Mr Ikenga said the attackers began shooting sporadically when they arrived at a venue where preparations were ongoing for a burial ceremony slated for 2 January. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Also, while escaping the scene, the armed men shot at two security operatives at a security observation post close to the (Ihiala) Local Government Headquarters by the express road. The unfortunate attack resulted in the death of seven persons, among which were two unarmed passers-by, he said. The police spokesperson said a joint security team rescued one of the victims, who was currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital. Manhunt The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Obono, has ordered an immediate manhunt of the assailants, Mr Ikenga said. Mr Obono commiserated with the families and friends of the victims as well as the people of the Ihiala Council Area over the loss of lives. The police chief assured that the attacks perpetrators would be tracked down. Increased attack Like other states in Nigerias South-east, security has deteriorated in Anambra State with frequent attacks by armed persons. The attacks often target security agencies, government officials and facilities. The latest incident occurred barely three days after suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) killed two Nigerian soldiers in Osina, a community in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State. On 24 December, gunmen abducted Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, while he was returning home for Christmas celebrations. Mr Azuka, who represents Onitsha North Constituency I, was yet to be released as of this report. Also, a retired archbishop of the Anglican Diocese of Nnewi, Godwin Okpala, and his driver were declared missing earlier this month in the state. Mr Okpala, a professor, and the driver have yet to be seen at the time of this report. The Nigerian government has accused IPOB of being responsible for the deadly attacks in the region. However, the group has repeatedly denied its involvement in the attacks. The separatist group is leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra, which it wants to be carved out from the South-east and some parts of South-south Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has criticised Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State for suggesting that the release of Nnamdi Kanu might not address insecurity in the South-east. Mr Kanu, who is facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in detention since he was brought back to Nigeria from Kenya in June 2021 under controversial circumstances. IPOB is leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra which it wants carved out from the south-east and some parts of south-south Nigeria. What Soludo said Many Igbo leaders have repeatedly called for the release of the IPOB leader on the basis that his freedom would end the worsening insecurity in the South-east. But speaking in mid-December, Mr Soludo said the release of the IPOB leader might not end insecurity in the region. The governor explained that the hoodlums behind frequent attacks in the South-east were criminals who had hijacked the Biafra struggle and are now hiding under the agitation and Mr Kanus name to perpetrate violence. IPOB kicks But reacting in a statement on Monday, the spokesperson of the IPOB, Emma Powerful, said the governor appears to be pitching his tent firmly with unnamed politicians allegedly against the release of the IPOB leader. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Powerful argued that Mr Soludos comment was counter intuitive and defies logic given that he had previously called for the release of Mr Kanu. He said Mr Kanus release would end insecurity in the South-east, even considering the governors admission that those behind insecurity in the region operate under Mr Kanus name. If criminals are hiding under the name of Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB to commit any offence, then common sense dictates that if Onyendu is released, nobody would hide under his name or that of IPOB to commit any crime or do anything untoward, he said. Any criminal or criminals hiding under his name will be flushed out or be exposed and those operating in their own name will be driven out of our land. Kanu will end insecurity in South-east Mr Powerful said Mr Kanu would end insecurity in the South-east if released from detention considering how he floated the Eastern Security Network (ESN) to check herders attacks in the region. Established by Mr Kanu in 2020, ESN is the armed wing of IPOB dedicated to fighting herders in south-east and south-south Nigeria. If the same person, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu that brought to an end the full-scale invasion, slaughter and humiliation of the Igbo race at the hands of these killer herdsmen from the Sahel that were rampaging unchecked through our forests, farmlands and villages a few years back, the same Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will surely end insecurity in the South-east and beyond, the IPOB spokesperson claimed. He further recalled how the IPOB leader boasted that he could end insecurity in the South-east upon his release from detention. This is how bold and confident we are in demonstration of our utter repudiation of anything that may bring or cause hardship to be brought upon the people of Biafra, Mr Powerful said of the IPOB leaders boast. He challenged South-east governors to publicly say if there is any ulterior motive behind their alleged reluctance to frontally seek Mr Kanus release in line with their public pledge. However, governors and other political leaders in the region have repeatedly called for Mr Kanus release. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print MIAMI, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Aesthetic Partners is revolutionizing professional development in medical aesthetics with AP Academy, a comprehensive training program designed to elevate each team member across the company. Created to support professional development opportunities for its nearly four hundred employees and an exceptional caliber of care for its patients, AP Academy provides cutting-edge clinical and business training. The program is meticulously tailored to meet the diverse needs of the medical aesthetics workforce, building technical skills while creating career advancement opportunities and leadership growth. Curricula are tailored to each clinic position with eight distinct tracks and more than three hundred courses, hands-on training sessions, and special events. Collectively, these instructional modules cover a wide array of topics designed to foster a deep understanding of aesthetic medicine, operational excellence, and customer service. "At Aesthetic Partners, we strive to set new benchmarks for the aesthetics industry in all that we do," said Anna Churchill, Head of Professional Development at Aesthetic Partners and founder of North Carolina-based Synergy Face + Body. "AP Academy isn't just a training program it's our commitment to transforming patient care through continuous, comprehensive professional development." As part of its launch, AP Academy hosted the first annual AP Clinical Summit to deliver hands-on clinical training to leading providers and operators across its platform. The 2024 AP Clinical Summit included more than 50 attendees for two days of clinical and business training, including advanced facial anatomy coursework and an industry-coveted cadaver lab. The summit was notable in bringing together diverse roles within aesthetic medicine, creating cross-functional learning opportunities rarely seen in the industry. Like the AP Clinical Summit, all AP Academy classes are taught by industry and functional experts and incorporate both conceptual and technical concepts to fully engage each employee in the business and science of aesthetics. Example courses include Science of Sun Exposure, Types of Acids in Exfoliation, and a range of clinical, administrative, and leadership courses. AP Academy draws on an exceptional roster of industry leaders, including Dr. Jason Pozner, a world-renowned plastic surgeon, and laser expert Dr. Jeff Birchall, a renowned Allergan trainer. Instructors represent the pinnacle of aesthetic medical expertise, including faculty from prestigious institutions like Ohio State University's Plastic Surgery Fellowship. "AP Academy is a game changer, not just for our team but for our industry," said Dr. Jason Pozner. "It's the first program from a multisite aesthetic group to offer this level of training for new clinical aestheticians and injectors along with advanced techniques for experienced professionals. This is an entirely new type of education that we are so proud to offer." Faraz Karbasi, co-founder and co-CEO of Aesthetic Partners, highlighted the program's alignment with the company's forward-thinking ethos: "The aesthetics industry demands continuous innovation, and our people are our greatest instrument of change. AP Academy is our strategic investment in expertise, excellence, and industry leadership." AP Academy's launch is the latest milestone for Aesthetic Partners and reinforces its dedication to excellence and innovation in the aesthetics sector. For more information about AP Academy and Aesthetic Partners, please visit https://www.aestheticpartners.com/ About Aesthetic Partners Aesthetic Partners is a leading medical aesthetics and plastic surgery company that partners with high-end, physician-led, and patient-centric practices. Aesthetic Partners provides growth capital, functional expertise, and new location expansion support to brands within its portfolio. Incubated at Harvard and founded in 2018, Aesthetic Partners is based in Miami, Florida, and is female- and minority-owned. The company partners with practices across the US, including Synergy Face + Body , Azul Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa , Columbus Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery , Sanctuary Medical Aesthetics , Dermacare Medical Aesthetics , Synergy Face + Body by Travis Shaw, MD , and Laser Skin & Wellness . Investors include Norwest Venture Partners . For more information on Aesthetic Partners, visit https://www.aestheticpartners.com/ or email [email protected] . SOURCE Aesthetic Partners The acquisition of two Chicago-based firms creates a new market for Aprio, reinforces commitment to expanding its position across the U.S. ATLANTA, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Aprio, the 25th largest business advisory and accounting firm in the U.S., announces the strategic acquisitions of two leading accounting firms, KRD, Ltd. and Burkett & Beattie, Inc. (B&B), both located in Chicago. "We are pleased to expand our footprint into the greater Chicago area and tap into one of the country's fastest-growing business hubs," said Richard Kopelman, CEO of Aprio. "KRD and Burkett & Beattie have a proven track record as trusted business advisors across the Midwest. This strategic alignment underscores our commitment to investing in and scaling our business for the advancement of our valued clients and team members." KRD, Ltd. is a premier firm that provides financial, wealth planning, assurance, tax, consulting, and outsourced accounting services for high-net-worth families, businesses, and other organizations. The firm is led by Managing Partner Jon Segal and includes nearly 110 partners and professionals. Segal joins as Aprio's Midwest regional leader and Chicago and Schaumburg office leader. "By joining forces with Aprio, we gain access to a broader network of top talent, innovative technologies, and solutions, while preserving KRD's unique qualities and personalized approach that has set us apart in the marketplace," said Segal. "Over the past four years, Aprio has supported us with a wealth of services and knowledge, enabling us to better serve our clients. Our positive experiences and long-standing relationship with Aprio's professionals made this the logical next step to strengthen and grow our firm." Jeffrey Kapelus, President of Capstone Search Solutions, advised Aprio and KRD on the transaction. "Aprio's forward-thinking leadership, breadth of specialized services, and proven growth trajectory set them apart as a trusted advisor. KRD's alignment with these qualities makes this an ideal match," said Kapelus. "By establishing a presence in Chicago, Aprio strengthens its capabilities and reinforces its commitment to providing clients with innovative, high-impact solutions tailored to their needs." Burkett & Beattie, Inc. provides full-service accounting and tax services with a concentration in small, growing businesses in a variety of industries, with a particular focus on health clubs, marketing research, and veterinary hospitals. The firm is led by Managing Partners Sandra Burkett and Christopher Beattie, with 10 professionals who have extensive experience with private client, small and emerging businesses, trusts, and individual tax consulting. "This partnership is not just about expanding Burkett & Beattie's unique service offerings, but also about growing together with Aprio," said Burkett. Beattie added, "Our team will have access to continued career growth, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work with a broader range of clients and industries. We are thrilled to be a part of the Aprio team." Russ Best, of Whitman Transition Advisors, served as an advisor on the Burkett & Beattie transaction. Aprio is strengthening its footprint across the nation. The addition of KRD and Burkett & Beattie follows Aprio's recent acquisitions of Kirsch Kohn & Bridge (KKB) in Los Angeles and Elite Tax & Accounting and Pontiff + Associates in Denver. About Aprio Aprio is the brand name under which Aprio, LLP, and Aprio Advisory Group, LLC, deliver professional services. Since 1952, clients throughout the U.S. and across more than 50 countries have trusted Aprio for guidance on how to achieve what's next. As a premier business advisory and accounting firm, Aprio Advisory Group, LLC, delivers advisory, tax, managed, and private client services to build value, drive growth, manage risk, and protect wealth, and Aprio, LLP, provides audit and attest services. With proven experience and genuine care, Aprio serves individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses, from promising startups to market leaders alike. Aprio has grown to 2,000+ team members providing solutions to clients in industries including Manufacturing and Distribution, Non-Profit and Education, Professional Services, Real Estate, Construction, Restaurant, Franchise & Hospitality, Government Contracting, and Technology and Blockchain. Aprio.com About KRD, Ltd. KRD is a premier firm located in the Chicago market specializing in high net-worth families, businesses and other organizations. For more than 40 years, KRD has been providing a full range of business strategies and client services, audits, reviews and compilations, financial, retirement and estate planning, accounting and software consulting, tax strategies and preparation, and business valuation services with state-of-the-art technology resources. KRD is a value-oriented organization with high professional standards. The partners and professionals serve every client's unique situation with passion, quality and integrity. About Burkett & Beattie, Inc. The partners and professionals at Burkett & Beattie, Inc. have been trusted advisors, providing full-service accounting and tax, service with a concentration on small, growing businesses in a variety of industries, with a particular focus in health clubs, marketing research, and veterinary hospitals. The firm was founded in 1998 and is now led by Managing Partners Sandra Burkett and Christopher Beattie. Follow Aprio: Aprio Website: https://www.aprio.com/ Aprio Careers: https://www.careers.aprio.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aprio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprioadvisors Twitter: https://twitter.com/AprioAdvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprioadvisors/ SOURCE Aprio SEATTLE, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- JND Legal Administration A proposed class action settlement has been reached in a lawsuit called In Re: ZF-TRW Airbag Control Units Products Liability Litigation, Case No. 2:19-ml-02905-JAK-JPR (C.D. Cal.). A list of the Mitsubishi Class Vehicles and other important information and case documents are available on the Settlement Website, www.ACUSettlement.com. Class Members include all persons or entities who or which, on November 1, 2024, own or lease or previously owned or leased Mitsubishi Class Vehicles distributed for sale or lease in the United States or any of its territories or possessions. Eligibility for cash payments will be determined by VIN. The Mitsubishi Class Vehicles are the: 2013-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer; 2013-2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution; 2013-2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart; 2013-2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback; and 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander. The Settlement provides $8.5 million to resolve claims that the Mitsubishi Class Vehicles contain defective ZF-TRW airbag control units that are vulnerable to a condition called electrical overstress, which may cause the vehicles' airbags and other safety features to fail during a collision. Mitsubishi denies the claims but has agreed to settle. The Court has not decided who is right. The purpose of this notice is to inform you of the proposed class action settlement so you may decide what to do. Your legal rights under the Settlement are affected even if you do nothing, so please read this notice carefully. The cash compensation available will be up to $250 for each Mitsubishi Class Vehicle , with the potential for additional payments of unclaimed funds, depending on the volume of claims submitted and court-awarded fees and costs. If multiple Class Members submit a valid claim for the same Mitsubishi Class Vehicle, 60% of the compensation for that Mitsubishi Class Vehicle will be allocated to the original owner who purchased the vehicle new, and the remaining 40% will be allocated to or divided evenly among the other Class Member(s). In addition to the cash payments, the Settlement provides for a robust Mitsubishi Class Vehicle inspection program. Please visit www.ACUSettlement.com for more information. How do I get a payment? You must submit a claim to receive a cash payment. The claim form asks for basic information and takes just a few minutes to complete. To submit your claim online, visit www.ACUSettlement.com. If you would like to submit your claim by mail, you can download and print the claim form on the Settlement Website or call to request a form. The fastest option is to submit your claim online. You should submit your claim now. Claim forms must be electronically submitted or postmarked no later than May 8, 2026 . This schedule may change, so please visit the Settlement Website regularly for updates. What are my other options? You may object to or exclude yourself from the Settlement by February 27, 2025. If you exclude yourself, you will not receive any cash payments and you will not release any of the claims that this Settlement resolves. If you do not exclude yourself from the Settlement, you will be bound by the Court's orders and judgments like all other Class Members, even if you do not file a claim. If you wish to object, the Court will consider your views in deciding whether to approve or reject this Settlement. If the Court does not approve the Settlement, no cash payments will be sent, and the lawsuit will continue. You cannot object if you exclude yourself from the Settlement. For information on how to object or exclude yourself, visit www.ACUSettlement.com. What happens next? The Court will hold a hearing on April 7, 2025 at 8:30 a.m., to consider whether to grant final approval of the Settlement, award fees and costs to the attorneys representing the Class, and service awards to the Settlement Class Representatives. Co-Lead Counsel will ask the Court to award up to 30% of the Settlement Amount (i.e. up to $2.55 million) to cover reasonable attorneys' fees plus costs they incurred in litigating this case and securing this nationwide Settlement for the Class. Co-Lead Counsel will also ask the Court to award each of the 4 proposed Settlement Class Representatives a service award of up to $2,500 each for their work in this litigation. You do not need to attend this hearing, but you are welcome to attend at your own expense. The hearing date may change, so please check the Settlement Website regularly for updates. Questions? Visit www.ACUSettlement.com or call 1-855-680-6395. SOURCE JND Legal Administration VANCOUVER, BC, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Elevation Gold Mining Corporation (TSX.V: ELVT.H) (the "Company" or "Elevation Gold") previously announced in its press release dated December 4, 2024 that it entered into a purchase and sale agreement dated December 2, 2024 (the "APS") with an arm's length purchaser, EG Acquisition LLC (the "Purchaser"), in respect of the purchase and sale of certain of Elevation's assets (the "Transaction"), including the outstanding common shares of Golden Vertex Corp. ("GVC"), which holds the Moss Mine located in Arizona. As announced in the Company's press release dated December 19, 2024, the Transaction was approved by the British Columbia Supreme Court in an order dated December 17, 2024 (the "Canadian Approval Order"). The Canadian Approval Order was subject to recognition by the U.S. Court (the "US Approval Order") in the Chapter 15 Proceedings (the "US Recognition Hearing"). The US Recognition Hearing was heard on December 23, 2024, and the US Approval Order was entered on December 30, 2024. The Transaction was also approved by the TSX Venture Exchange subject to approval by the U.S. Court. The Transaction is expected to close on December 31, 2024. In connection with Closing of the Transaction, all of the Company's directors and officers have resigned from their positions, effective immediately. The net proceeds of the Transaction will be applied in accordance with the Canadian Approval Order, following which the Company will have no operating business or material assets. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF ELEVATION GOLD MINING CORPORATION "Tim J. Swendseid" Tim J. Swendseid, Chief Executive Officer of Elevation Gold Mining Corporation Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain of the statements made and information contained herein is "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this document constitute forward-looking information, including but not limited to statements regarding the application of the proceeds of the Transaction, and the Company's status following the completion of the Transaction. Words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "contemplate", "target", "plan", "goal", "aim", "intend", "continue", "budget", "estimate", "may", "will", "can", "could", "should", "schedule" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon various estimates and assumptions including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this document in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, these statements are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to risks and uncertainties including but not limited to those described the Company's public disclosure documents which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com under the Company's profile. All of the forward-looking statements made in this document are qualified by these cautionary statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, forecast or intended and readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking information. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate and forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance. Readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein speaks only as of the date of this document. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise forwardlooking information or to explain any material difference between such and subsequent actual events, except as required by applicable law. SOURCE Elevation Gold Mining Corp. Kwanza Jones releases her year in review video for 2024, highlighting key successes and milestones throughout the year. LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- High-impact investor and catalyst for positive change, Kwanza Jones drives sustained progress across culture, community, and capital. By championing cultural institutions, empowering underserved communities, and driving capital toward meaningful initiatives, Jones continues to redefine what it means to "Dream in Decades." In her 2024 Year In Review video , Jones shared how her "Dreaming in Decades" philosophy guides her work and reflected on the moments that defined 2024. Visit Jones' 2024 Year In Review Page to learn more about those moments. Kwanza Jones releases her year in review video for 2024, highlighting key successes and milestones throughout the year. Post this Kwanza Jones 2024 Year In Review Video: Dreaming In Decades Earlier this year, Jones was honored by Cardozo School of Law at the 14th Annual Black Asian Latino Law Students Association (BALLSA) Celebration. This recognition celebrated her inspirational leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing equity and inclusion, particularly for underrepresented communities. Through her work, Jones has created pathways for individuals to access resources, overcome barriers, and achieve their potential. This dedication to equity was further reflected when Jones used her artistry to inspire change at the Cardozo School of Law Peace Gala. Performing John Lennon's "Imagine" in honor of Professor Lela P. Love, Jones highlighted the power of art to create shared understanding and spark dialogue. By connecting communities through music, she underscored her commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusion through culture. Jones' belief in the transformative power of culture and community extended to her support of The Apollo's 90th Anniversary Spring Benefit. As a longtime advocate for this iconic institution, her contributions were instrumental in raising over $3 million to support The Apollo's legacy and expand its impact for future generations. Her efforts highlight how investing in cultural institutions strengthens communities and creates opportunities that span generations. This commitment to empowering communities through strategic investments was further demonstrated at the Oliver Scholars Gala, where Jones and her partner in business and life, Jose E. Feliciano, were honored with the Champions of Excellence Award. The recognition celebrated their shared commitment to advancing education and leadership opportunities for Black and Brown students. Their generous donation was pivotal to the event's success, helping raise over $1 million to support Oliver Scholars in equipping exceptional young leaders with the resources they need to thrive. These funds will create a ripple effect of opportunity, fostering a new generation of changemakers. "We believe that one of the key catalysts for unlocking human potential is access to capital and economic opportunities," said Jones and Feliciano. "That's why we are committed to investing in organizations and individuals who are breaking barriers, opening doors, and building bridges of opportunity." Jones' achievements reflect her "Dreaming in Decades" philosophy: true progress requires sustained vision, intentional investment, and bold action. From leadership awards and cultural contributions to capital-driven solutions, she demonstrates how driving meaningful change across culture, community, and capital creates ripple effects that last for generations. About Kwanza Jones Kwanza Jones is on a mission to boost a billion lives through culture, community, and capital. She is a sought-after speaker, accomplished artist, impact investor, and philanthropist. With a multifaceted background spanning music, media, production, law and business, Jones is an energetic and visionary leader. She is CEO and founder of SUPERCHARGED by Kwanza Jones, a motivational media company. Jones has served on numerous boards including the Apollo Theater, Bennett College, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer, and Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Through her JonesFeliciano Initiative , with Jose E. Feliciano, her partner in life and in business, they have personally committed over $200 million to education, entrepreneurship, equity and empowerment organizations. To learn more, visit kwanzajones.com and connect with her on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook | X | Kwanza Jones Boost Friends Community . SOURCE SUPERCHARGED BOSTON, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund (NYSE: BTO) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC and subadvised by Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC, announced today sources of its quarterly distribution of $0.6500 per share paid to all shareholders of record as of December 12, 2024, pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan. This press release is issued as required by an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Notification of Sources of Distribution This notice provides shareholders of the John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund (NYSE: BTO) with important information concerning the distribution declared on December 2, 2024, and payable on December 31, 2024. No action is required on your part. Distribution Period: December 2024 Distribution Amount Per Common Share: $0.6500 The following table sets forth the estimated sources of the current distribution, payable December 31, 2024, and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short term capital gains; net realized long term capital gains; and return of capital or other capital source. All amounts are expressed on a per common share basis and as a percentage of the distribution amount. For the period 10/1/2024-12/31/2024 For the fiscal year-to-date period 01/1/2024-12/31/2024 1 Source Current Distribution ($) % Breakdown of the Current Distribution Total Cumulative Distributions ($) % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions Net Investment Income 0.0948 15 % 0.4281 16 % Net Realized Short- Term Capital Gains 0.0480 7 % 0.2000 8 % Net Realized Long- Term Capital Gains 0.5072 78 % 1.8742 72 % Return of Capital or Other Capital Source 0.0000 0 % 0.0942 4 % Total per common share 0.6500 100 % 2.5965 100 % Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5 years ended on November 30, 2024 10.19 % Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of November 30, 2024 6.74 % Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through November 30, 2024 34.58 % Cumulative fiscal year-to-date distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of November 30, 2024 6.73 % ______________________________ 1 The Fund's current fiscal year began on January 1, 2024 and will end on December 31, 2024. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's managed distribution plan. The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The Fund has declared the December 2024 distribution pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan (the "Plan"). Under the Plan, the Fund makes fixed quarterly distributions in the amount of $0.6500 per share. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact your financial professional or call the John Hancock Investment Management Closed-End Fund Information Line at 1-800-843-0090, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. About John Hancock Investment Management A company of Manulife Investment Management, we serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship. About Manulife Investment Management Manulife Investment Management is the global brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. We draw on more than a century of financial stewardship and the full resources of our parent company to serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Headquartered in Toronto, our leading capabilities in public and private markets are strengthened by an investment footprint that spans 18 geographies. We complement these capabilities by providing access to a network of unaffiliated asset managers from around the world. We're committed to investing responsibly across our businesses. We develop innovative global frameworks for sustainable investing, collaboratively engage with companies in our securities portfolios, and maintain a high standard of stewardship where we own and operate assets, and we believe in supporting financial well-being through our workplace retirement plans. Today, plan sponsors around the world rely on our retirement plan administration and investment expertise to help their employees plan for, save for, and live a better retirement. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com. SOURCE John Hancock Investment Management BOSTON, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Fund (NYSE: HEQ) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC (the "Adviser") and subadvised by Wellington Management Company LLP (the "Subadviser"), announced today sources of its quarterly distribution of $0.2500 per share paid to all shareholders of record as of December 12, 2024, pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan. This press release is issued as required by an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Notification of Sources of Distribution This notice provides shareholders of the John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Fund (NYSE: HEQ) with important information concerning the distribution declared on December 2, 2024, and payable on December 31, 2024. No action is required on your part. Distribution Period: December 2024 Distribution Amount Per Common Share: $0.2500 The following table sets forth the estimated sources of the current distribution, payable December 31, 2024, and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short term capital gains; net realized long term capital gains; and return of capital or other capital source. All amounts are expressed on a per common share basis and as a percentage of the distribution amount. For the period 10/1/2024-12/31/2024 For the fiscal year-to-date period 01/1/2024-12/31/2024 1 Source Current Distribution ($) % Breakdown of the Current Distribution Total Cumulative Distributions ($) % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions Net Investment Income 0.0814 33 % 0.5218 52 % Net Realized Short- Term Capital Gains 0.0000 0 % 0.3128 31 % Net Realized Long- Term Capital Gains 0.0704 28 % 0.1671 17 % Return of Capital or Other Capital Source 0.0982 39 % 0.0000 0 % Total per common share 0.2500 100 % 1.0017 100 % Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5 years ended on November 30, 2024 6.72 % Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of November 30, 2024 8.06 % Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through November 30, 2024 14.65 % Cumulative fiscal year-to-date distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of November 30, 2024 8.07 % ________________________ 1 The Fund's current fiscal year began on January 1, 2024 and will end on December 31, 2024. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's managed distribution plan. The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The Fund has declared the December 2024 distribution pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan (the "Plan"). Under the Plan, the Fund makes fixed quarterly distributions in the amount of $0.2500 per share, which will continue to be paid quarterly until further notice. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact your financial professional or call the John Hancock Investment Management Closed-End Fund Information Line at 1-800-843-0090, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. Wellington Management Company LLP is an independent and unaffiliated investment subadviser to John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Fund. About John Hancock Investment Management A company of Manulife Investment Management, we serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship. About Manulife Investment Management Manulife Investment Management is the global brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. We draw on more than a century of financial stewardship and the full resources of our parent company to serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Headquartered in Toronto, our leading capabilities in public and private markets are strengthened by an investment footprint that spans 18 geographies. We complement these capabilities by providing access to a network of unaffiliated asset managers from around the world. We're committed to investing responsibly across our businesses. We develop innovative global frameworks for sustainable investing, collaboratively engage with companies in our securities portfolios, and maintain a high standard of stewardship where we own and operate assets, and we believe in supporting financial well-being through our workplace retirement plans. Today, plan sponsors around the world rely on our retirement plan administration and investment expertise to help their employees plan for, save for, and live a better retirement. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com. SOURCE John Hancock Investment Management ALGIERS, Algeria, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- At the Algerian Production Fair 2024, which commenced on December 19, Midea, a leading global provider of air conditioning solutions, unveiled its innovative technology tailored to meet the specific needs of North African consumers, including those in Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and beyond. During the event, the Midea Residential Air Conditioner Division (Midea RAC) showcased solutions designed to address the region's demand for stable, durable, and high-temperature-resistant air-conditioning products with anti-corrosion features. Exhibition booth of Midea in FPA The Tropical 3 Product HYPER GRAPFINS A highlight of the exhibition was the Tropical 3, a product that garnered significant attention for its remarkable ability to operate continuously even in temperatures as high as 60C. This feature positions Tropical 3 as a reliable, comfortable, and eco-friendly solution, perfectly encapsulated by its slogan: "Tropical King, Epic Cooling." The reliability of Tropical 3 is underscored by its ability to function seamlessly in extreme heat, thanks to the innovative PrimeGuard HYPER GRAPFINS technology. This advanced coating is a breakthrough in corrosion resistance, outperforming traditional golden coatings by a factor of five. The black graphene coating not only offers long-lasting protection, with an effectiveness span of 20 to 50 years depending on environmental conditions, but also enhances heat distribution, releasing heat 31% faster than conventional methods. Additionally, it significantly reduces water vapor by 92.5% compared to aluminum foil. The product's reliability is further enhanced by features such as wide-range voltage operation, an intelligent dusting switch, Ice Circuit Tech, E-box Air Grid Enlargement, and an innovative ventilator design. Comfort is another cornerstone of Tropical 3's appeal. It operates at a whisper-quiet 20dB(A), ensuring minimal noise disruption. The inclusion of High-frequency Racer Tech and Stepless Comfort technology provides a seamless and pleasant user experience. Its minimalist and unique design, coupled with the Wind Avoid Me function and Active Clean Technology, ensures that users enjoy a comfortable and hygienic environment. In terms of eco-friendliness, the Tropical 3 is equipped with an energy-saving mode and gear shift capabilities, allowing for efficient energy use. The Midea SmartHome App further optimizes settings, enabling users to tailor their cooling experience while minimizing environmental impact. Xavi Xiong, Midea RAC Regional Director, Africa emphasized that the company's offerings extend beyond mere products. They represent comprehensive solutions tailored to the African market, aimed at providing communities with long-term, sustainable cooling solutions. This commitment to innovation and sustainability underscores Midea RAC's dedication to enhancing the quality of life for consumers in North Africa, ensuring they have access to reliable and efficient cooling systems that withstand the region's challenging climate conditions. Through its participation in the Algerian Production Fair 2024, Midea RAC has demonstrated a deep understanding of the needs of North African consumers and a commitment to delivering products that offer both performance and sustainability. For more information, please visit: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MideaAlgerie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@midearacglobal4687 Jacob Li [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2588563/1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2588564/2_T3___KV.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2588565/3.jpg Beijing (Gasgoo)- On December 29, Changan Automobile held its 2025 Global Partners Conference, reflecting on achievements, analyzing industry trends, and outlining its 2025 objectives and key strategies. Photo credit: Changan Automobile In 2024, Changan Automobile has seen significant progress in its strategic transformation, structural optimization, and operational quality. The company expects annual sales of 2.683 million vehicles this year, which should rise 5.1% year on year, marking a new high over the past seven years. Auto exports are projected to reach 530,000 units in 2024, surging 47.9% from a year ago. In the new energy vehicle (NEV) segment, Changan Automobile anticipates annual sales of 733,000 units in 2024, reflecting a 52.4% spike year-over-year. Notably, its NEV sales surpassed 100,000 units in November, marking another milestone in the company's 40-year history. Changan Automobile's 2025 targets, summarized as "3311," include total sales of 3 million vehicles, revenue of 300 billion yuan, NEV sales of 1 million units, and exports of 1 million units. In 2025, the automaker aims to serve 28 million users and move closer to its 30 million-user milestone. Looking ahead to 2030, Changan Automobile plans to achieve total sales of 5 million vehicles, with NEVs accounting for 3.5 million units and exports comprising 30% of the total. The company is committed to establishing itself as a world-class automotive brand. NEW YORK, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Inc. (NYSE American: NHS) (the "Fund") has announced a distribution declaration of $0.0905 per share of common stock. The distribution announced today is payable on January 31, 2025, has a record date of January 15, 2025, and has an ex-date of January 15, 2025. Under its level distribution policy, the Fund anticipates that it will make regular monthly distributions, subject to market conditions, of $0.0905 per share of common stock, unless further action is taken to determine another amount. The Fund's ability to maintain its current distribution rate will depend on a number of factors, including the amount and stability of income received from its investments, the cost of leverage and the level of other Fund fees and expenses. There is no assurance that the Fund will always be able to pay a distribution of any particular amount or that a distribution will consist only of net investment income. Due to an effort to maintain a stable distribution amount, the distribution announced today, as well as future distributions, may consist of net investment income, net realized capital gains and return of capital. In compliance with Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, a notice would be provided for any distribution that does not consist solely of net investment income. The notice would be for informational purposes and not for tax reporting purposes, and would disclose, among other things, estimated portions of the distribution, if any, consisting of net investment income, capital gains and return of capital. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions paid in 2025 will be made after the end of the year. About Neuberger Berman Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $509 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman's investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. The PRI identified the firm as part of the Leader's Group, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms for excellence in environmental, social and governance practices. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last ten years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of September 30, 2024. Statements made in this release that look forward in time involve risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the adverse effect from a decline in the securities markets or a decline in the Fund's performance, a general downturn in the economy, competition from other closed end investment companies, changes in government policy or regulation, inability of the Fund's investment adviser to attract or retain key employees, inability of the Fund to implement its investment strategy, inability of the Fund to manage rapid expansion and unforeseen costs and other effects related to legal proceedings or investigations of governmental and self-regulatory organizations. Contact: Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC Investor Information (877) 461-1899 SOURCE Neuberger Berman ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of the highly anticipated "Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2025," presented by Nexstar Media Group and host Nikki Novak, the delegates from the Miss America and Miss America's Teen competitions will participate in an exclusive broadcast segment from the official Miss America competition. The event will be held at the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort and Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The "Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2025" broadcast will air live on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, from 8:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. PT across 69 Nexstar-owned and partner stations, reaching more than 50 million households nationwide. Hosted from Las Vegas and featuring performances by legendary musical acts such as The Jacksons, Foreigner, Sheila E., and more, the special will include spectacular countdowns in all four U.S. time zones, culminating in a fireworks and drone show over the Las Vegas Strip. The national pageant delegates' segment will spotlight the sisterhood, celebration, and excitement of the Miss America competition, which, for the first time, will be held during New Year's Eve festivities. Guests at the party will join millions of viewers across the country in counting down to the new year while sharing personal messages of hope and joy via social media using the hashtags #Coast2CoastNYE and #MissAmerica. "We are so excited to kick off the new year with a new era of Miss America and toast to the next 100 years!" said Robin Fleming, CEO and owner of Miss America. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our delegates to shine on one of the most anticipated nights of the year." The Miss America and Miss America's Teen final competitions will be held January 4-5 at the Walt Disney Theatre at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in Orlando, FL. For more information, visit missamerica.org or follow the festivities on official Miss America social media handles @MissAmerica. About Miss America Miss America is the nation's premier empowerment platform for young women, advancing their personal and professional goals while serving as positive role models in their communities. With a rich history dating back to 1921, Miss America's mission is "Empowering Women to Lead," engaging thousands of young women as local and state brand ambassadors, ages 14-28, nationwide each year. Committed to community service initiatives, the program is the largest provider of women's scholarships in America, distributed through the Miss America's Scholarship Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3). About Nexstar Media Group, Inc. Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is a leading diversified media company that delivers local content and trusted news to communities across the U.S. Contact: Miss America Press Team [email protected] SOURCE Miss America Organization NEW YORK, Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it is investigating potential breaches of fiduciary duties by the directors and officers of Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) in connection with Southwest Airlines' information technology infrastructure impacting the Company's business, operations, and stock price. If you currently own shares of Southwest Airlines stock, please visit the firm's website at https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=10716 for more information. You may also contact Phillip Kim of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via email at [email protected]. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A. NEW YORK, Dec. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces an investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Unisys Corporation (NYSE: UIS) resulting from allegations that Unisys may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public. So What: If you purchased Unisys securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses. To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=9648 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. What is this about: On October 22, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission announced that it had charged four companies, including Unisys, with "making materially misleading disclosures regarding cybersecurity risks and intrusions." Further, the SEC also charged Unisys with disclosure controls and procedures violations. On this news, Unisys stock fell 8.6% on October 22, 2024. Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A. "We strive to ensure that future generations can be awed and inspired by witnessing giraffes thrive in wild Africa. Who wants a world without giraffes? The answer is no one," said Save The Giraffes Executive Director Tiffany Soechting. Despite their iconic stature, giraffes are quietly disappearing from the wild. With a fraction of the global awareness garnered by elephant and rhinoceros conservation efforts, giraffe populations are in crisis. The estimate that wild elephants outnumber giraffes by 350 percent is sobering, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action. Of the nine recognized giraffe subspecies, seven are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Four of these subspecies have experienced population declines of up to 97 percent in the last 30 years. "Hope is found in the success stories of a Southern African subspecies, whose populations have seen significant and stable growth," said Soecthing. South African giraffe populations have proven to be invaluable in researching novel scientific reproductive techniquesdata from which may help save fragile giraffe populations throughout Africa. Save The Giraffes, in collaboration with an international team of scientists and conservationists, is leveraging data from these South African giraffe populations to advance reproductive science and conservation strategies. These efforts include developing innovative, stress-reducing immobilization protocolsa carefully managed process of sedating giraffes to ensure their safety during medical treatments or researchalong with refining reproductive technologies and implementing personalized care programs to monitor giraffes after treatment and ensure their recovery. Scientific advances in giraffe reproductive research The collaborative research began in 2017 in a partnership formed between Dr. Francois Deacon of the University of the Free State (South Africa), Save The Giraffes, and other international experts. The project achieved a critical milestone in giraffe conservation: the first successful collection, evaluation, and freezing of wild giraffe semen. "Connecting with Save The Giraffes has enabled me to continue valuable giraffe research that will forever impact giraffe populations all over the world," said Deacon. Save the Giraffes President Jason Pootoolal began to apply his extensive background of artificial insemination with captive giraffes. "We believe we can reverse wild giraffe decline by using reproductive technology that I pioneered in captive giraffes years ago," explained Pootoolal. These breakthroughs laid the groundwork for further advancements in reproductive technology, including the development of embryo preservation and artificial fertilization protocols. Absolute Genetics (https://absolutegenetics.co.za), a leader of reproductive technologies in South Africa, brought new expertise in 2024. During recent research expeditions, the genetics team refined techniques for collecting semen and female eggs, successfully producing high-quality samples for long-term freezing and future use. They also began the development of a prototype for artificial fertilization using advanced sperm sorting/sexing technologies. These efforts are paving the way for fertilization procedures that can be adapted to critically endangered giraffe subspecies in northern Africa. "It's important to share that giraffes present unique physiological and reproductive challenges due to their enormous size and special cardiovascular systems; wild giraffes require innovative techniques for safely sedating them, collecting samples, and providing care after procedures," said Deacon. "Over the last seven years our team has conducted 254 successful sedation and captures, which has prepared us for the next delicate step of the first embryo transfer in wild giraffe." Milestones in giraffe embryo development Among the project's most significant accomplishments is progress in giraffe embryo development. Researchers have successfully preserved and analyzed the earliest stages of embryo formation in controlled lab environments. By combining these developments with semen freezing and sperm sexing, the team has successfully advanced toward in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols. These IVF protocols aim to increase genetic diversity within captive giraffe populations worldwide. They will also form a reliable method of providing wild populations with genetically diverse offspring, resulting in a stable future for giraffes in Africa. Wild giraffe IVF and embryo transfer protocols Save The Giraffes, alongside researchers and conservationists throughout the world, will take on the next phase of this ambitious project in 2025. The team will refine IVF and embryo transfer protocols to complete the first successful giraffe birth via these methods. The resulting data is expected to revolutionize giraffe conservation efforts by enabling precise genetic management for fragile populations. At the forefront of this initiative is Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (NBWR) in Texas, which serves as headquarters of Save The Giraffes in the United States. NBWR has seen major success in giraffe reproduction with 55 calves born over the past 40 years and six more expected in 2025. Leveraging this reproductive expertise, Save The Giraffes plans to apply advanced reproductive techniques perfected in South Africa to giraffe populations across Africa. "The reproductive techniques developed in South Africa can be used together with responsible giraffe management to further the ways in which giraffe populations and genetics can be conserved, preserved and protected," said Save The Giraffes Director of Veterinary Care Dr. Stephen Momberg. A blueprint for global conservation success By combining the data collected from field research, reproductive science, and conservation biology, the partnership formed by Save The Giraffes is creating a blueprint for giraffe conservation worldwide. By preserving genetic material and implementing assisted reproductive technologies, these efforts represent a holistic approach to combating giraffe extinction. Save The Giraffes Executive Director Tiffany Soechting also serves the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) as giraffe studbook keeper. "The giraffe studbook database for North American ZAA populations is held within Species360 and their new 'One Plan' approach provides an additional opportunity to use the project's success to help ensure genetic diversity among giraffe populations all over the world," explained Soechting. "Species360 is a global nonprofit species population database, which records and shares population data of captive giraffe populations all over the world. 'One Plan' will now incorporate wild giraffe population data from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species." Save The Giraffes is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization working to reverse the plight of wild giraffe. Donations to support their mission are welcomed and can be made through https://www.savethegiraffes.com/donate. SOURCE Save The Giraffes BEIJING, Dec. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from China Daily: Economic globalization has brought development opportunities to the world and improved the lives of billions of people around the globe. Episode 2 of the new season of the documentary This is China will share with you the success stories of a Chinese brand abroad and a multinational company in China. As the world's second-largest economy, the largest trading country and the second-largest recipient of foreign direct investment, China has contributed to and benefited from economic globalization. In 2023, China posted total imports and exports worth about $6 trillion and had more than 1 million foreign companies developing their business nationwide. Every 1 percentage point of growth in China's economy helps to raise the production level in other economies by an average of 0.3 percentage points. Amid a shifting global trade landscape, a growing number of Chinese enterprises are striving to take the lead in technology and innovation, climbing up the global value chain, which has not only boosted regional and national development but provided new impetus to the development of the world economy. China recently released the fifth season of the documentary This is China. Through the perspectives of enterprises and cities in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei metropolitan area and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the new season of the documentary tells stories about global trade; transnational logistics; the digital planet and world factories; sheds light on the changes and new things in China brought by economic globalization; and inspires people with their effect and future development. Episode 2 of the documentary's new season will tell the stories of how a Chinese brand has succeeded in its bid to go global and how a multinational company has integrated into the Chinese market. Click the video to see more. SOURCE China Daily Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 30, 2024, GAC Group announced that the company has reached an agreement with its controlling shareholder, Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Industry), to sell an 18.82% stake in Guangzhou Greater Bay Technology Co., Ltd. (GBT) with a total transaction value of approximately 1.331 billion yuan. Photo credit: GAC Group According to its previous announcement, GAC Group would transfer its 15.82% stake in GBT to GAC Industry for approximately 1.118 billion yuan. Additionally, GAC Capital, a wholly-owned subsidiary of GAC Group, would transfer its 3% stake in GBT to GAC Industry for approximately 212 million yuan. Upon completion of the transaction, GAC Group will no longer hold a direct equity stake in GBT but will indirectly retain a 15.6% stake through GAC Capital. In accordance with the agreement, GAC Capital will no longer have the right to nominate board or management for GBT and will cease to exercise significant influence over the company. According to equity method of accounting, the remaining equity held through GAC Capital will be classified as a financial asset and measured at fair value. Founded in September 2020, GBT is GAC Group's first internally incubated high-tech enterprise under a mixed-ownership structure. The company focuses on the R&D, production, sales, and services of XFC (eXtreme Fast Charging) power batteries, a new-generation energy storage device, and its systems. Washington, Dec 31 : Former President Jimmy Carter's official state funeral will be held on January 9 in Washington D.C., the same day as a national day of mourning announced by President Joe Biden on Sunday. Washington, Dec 31 (IANS) Former President Jimmy Carter's official state funeral will be held on January 9 in Washington D.C., the same day as a national day of mourning announced by President Joe Biden on Sunday. Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy for the former President, and on Monday he ordered federal offices closed on January 9 "as a mark of respect" for Carter. The Supreme Court followed suit on Monday noon, announcing it would also be closed on January 9 in recognition of the day of mourning. Carter passed away on Sunday (local time) at the age of 100. Services honouring Carter will begin on January 4 and include a brief pause at his boyhood home and the family farm in Plains, Georgia, where he grew up, and a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence. Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta until January 7 for mourners to pay their respects, before departing for Washington, D.C., where his remains will be carried to the US Navy Memorial and then to the US Capitol in a funeral procession. Upon arrival at the Capitol, members of Congress will pay their respects to the late President during an afternoon service on January 7. He will lie in state until January 9. The state funeral will be held at the National Cathedral at 10 a.m. that day. In a letter on Monday, Congressional leaders from both parties notified Carter's son James Carter III and the Carter Center of their intent for the late President to lie in state at the Capitol from January 7-9. "In recognition of President Carter's long and distinguished service to the nation, it is our intention to ask the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate to permit his remains lie in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol," the lawmakers said in a joint statement. "With your approval, we will move forward with these arrangements so that the American people have the opportunity to pay their respects to President Carter before he is laid to rest," they added. In a statement on Truth Social on Sunday, US President-elect Donald Trump also paid tribute to Carter, writing that "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". Trump added, "For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global human rights work, including "his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts". Through his work with the Carter Center, which he established in 1982 with his wife, Carter spent decades working in developing nations on efforts to restore human rights and build democratic institutions. The Joint Task Force-National Capital Region in the Department of Defense will conduct the ceremonies. Earlier, Biden and First Lady Jill Biden mourned the loss of former President Carter, describing him as an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian. In a statement released by the White House, they said, "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe." Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over Carter's passing, describing him as a "statesman of great vision". PM Modi said that Carter's contributions to fostering strong ties between India and the US leave a lasting legacy. In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter. A statesman of great vision, he worked tirelessly for global peace and harmony. His contributions to fostering strong India-US ties leave a lasting legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of the US." In 1978, Jimmy Carter travelled to India as US President. He met India's then-President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy and then-Prime Minister Morarji Desai. During his visit, he also addressed the Parliament of India. On Sunday, former US President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100 (local time) at his home in Plains, Georgia, media reported, citing his son James E. Carter III. Carter's son confirmed his death but did not provide an immediate cause. According to the Carter Center's statement from February 2023, after a series of hospital stays, Carter decided to stop further medical treatment and spend his remaining time at home under hospice care. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Seoul, Dec 31 : A Seoul court on Tuesday approved a request from law enforcement authorities to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief martial law imposition, making him the first sitting South Korean President to face an arrest. The Seoul Western District Court issued the warrant against Yoon on charges of masterminding the botched December 3 martial law declaration, orchestrating the insurrection and abusing power, according to sources. South Korean law enforcement officials requested a court warrant on Monday to detain impeached President Yoon as they investigate whether his short-lived martial law decree on December 3 amounted to rebellion. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) filed the detention warrant after Yoon ignored all three summonses from the anti-corruption agency requesting his appearance for questioning over the short-lived martial law, Yonhap news agency reported. The court warrant gives the CIO 48 hours to take Yoon into custody for questioning and file for an arrest warrant. However, uncertainties linger over whether the CIO can execute the warrant, as the Presidential Security Service has blocked investigators from entering both the presidential office compound and Yoon's official residence to carry out court-approved searches, citing military security concerns. Although Yoon has presidential immunity from criminal prosecution, the privilege does not extend to insurrection or treason charges. Yoon's defence team has argued the CIO lacks legal authority to investigate insurrection, a charge for which, in principle, police have investigative jurisdiction under the current system, amended during the previous government. Oh Dong-woon, the CIO chief, has said that, unlike search warrants, a court-issued detention or arrest warrant cannot legally be obstructed, even by the President. Yoon has been suspended from his duties after the Opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to impeach him on December 14 over his imposition of martial law, which lasted six hours before it was overturned by a parliamentary vote. The Constitutional Court has begun proceedings for deliberations to determine whether to remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. It has 180 days from December 14 to deliver its ruling. Yoon's failure to offer any evidence in support of his claims has raised concerns that he was endorsing conspiracy theories on right-wing YouTube channels that April's parliamentary elections were rigged. The Democratic Party won those elections by a landslide. The Election Commission rejected Yoon's allegations, stating there was no basis to suspect election fraud. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text United Nations, Dec 31 : Israel's onslaught on health care and emergency services, crippling humanitarian access and attacks on civilians in Gaza are dismantling the very means of survival, UN humanitarians said. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Monday issued the warning after the announcement by World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus that following an Israeli raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital of North Gaza and the detention on Friday of its director, Hussam Abu Safiya, the facility closed, Xinhua news agency reported. In a post on X, Ghebreyesus said that patients in critical condition were taken to the non-functioning Indonesian Hospital. Safiya's location is unknown and the WHO Director-General called for his immediate release. "Amid ongoing chaos in northern Gaza WHO and partners today (Monday) delivered basic medical and hygiene supplies, food and water to Indonesian Hospital and transferred 10 critical patients to Al-Shifa Hospital," Ghebreyesus said. "Four patients were detained during the transfer. We urge Israel to ensure their health care needs and rights are upheld." He added that hospitals have become battlegrounds, and the health system is under severe threat. He reported attacks on Al-Ahli and Al-Wafa Hospitals in Gaza City, both of which were damaged, and called to stop attacks on hospitals and to secure access to health care. OCHA said that on Sunday, it joined the delivery with WHO, the World Food Programme (WFP), the Palestine Red Crescent Society and the UN Department for Safety. The team reported that the hospital has no water, electricity or sanitation. The office said the team's mission to North Gaza was exceptional because most of the 150 mission attempts since October have been denied by the Israeli authorities. Even the few that were initially agreed to faced heavy impediments. It said that between Friday and Sunday, three of four attempts to access the area were denied by Israeli authorities. Only the joint team effort was let through, but it faced significant impediments. "It should not require breaking a siege to help survivors in critical need. Aid workers must be granted safe and unhindered access to assist people wherever they are." OCHA said humanitarian access remains systematically hindered across the Gaza Strip. Since Friday, more than 60 per cent of the 42 UN-coordinated movements were denied, interfered with or impeded on the ground. The office said another constraint on delivering aid in Gaza is armed looting of humanitarian relief convoys. Two incidents recorded over the past three days in southern Gaza affected dozens of truckloads of supplies and further exposed drivers to serious risks. Fighting and Israeli restrictions on commercial and other imports also persist. These continue to dangerously paralyse the humanitarian operation when families urgently need more food, shelter materials, and clothing to survive winter weather. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Pratap Chandra Sarangi, the BJP MP from Odisha's Balasore, has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of "behaving more like a bouncer than a Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha", a position once held by eminent leaders such as former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. BJP MP Sarangi, who sustained injuries during a scuffle in Parliament on December 19 and was hospitalised, shared his health update with reporters on Monday. "I am comparatively better now and was discharged from the hospital on December 28. I still need to be cautious as the stitch on my head has not fully healed," he said. Recalling the incident, BJP MP Sarangi said, "It happened when we (BJP MPs) were standing near an entry gate, peacefully protesting against the insult of B.R. Ambedkar, holding placards." "Suddenly, Rahul Gandhi came along with some of his party colleagues and started pushing people to move ahead. He was behaving like a bouncer, not like the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a post once occupied by great personalities like Vajpayee ji," alleged Sarangi. Pratap Sarangi claimed there was enough space near the gate for Rahul Gandhi to pass without causing disruption. "Rahul Gandhi pushed MP Mukesh Rajput, who was standing in front of him. Rajput ji fell on me, and my head likely hit the corner of a stone-like object, causing the injury," said Sarangi. When asked if Rahul Gandhi had expressed concern after the incident, Sarangi responded, "Yes, he came near me after someone informed him of what had happened. However, he quickly left without showing any genuine concern. I recovered due to the blessings of Lord Jagannath." Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned following protests by the Opposition demanding an apology from Amit Shah over his remarks on B.R. Ambedkar. Dressed in blue, a colour symbolising BR Ambedkar, INDIA bloc MPs, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, demonstrated on the Parliament premises, calling for Amit Shah's resignation over his comments regarding the Constitution's chief architect. New Delhi, Dec 31 : As the city gears up to welcome the New Year, the Delhi Police have implemented security arrangements across the city to ensure safety, smooth celebrations and effective crowd management, officials said. DCP (South) Ankit Chauhan said additional patrolling and specialised units had been deployed across key areas to maintain law and order. "Security checkpoints with breath analysers have been set up at 21 strategic locations to regulate vehicular movement and prevent any incidents related to drunk driving. Quick reaction teams (QRTs) are stationed across 15 critical points, while 38 PCR vans have been strategically placed to ensure rapid mobility and response to emergencies," he said. More than 10,000 officers will be on duty, with paramilitary forces stationed at city borders to curb illegal activities. Special vehicles, equipped with CCTV cameras and other surveillance tools, have been deployed for enhanced monitoring and patrolling. These vehicles will assist in keeping an eye on key areas throughout the city. Authorities aim to ensure a safe and joyful welcome to 2025 but have emphasised that law violations will not be tolerated. To further tighten vigilance, 70 strong pickets fortified with barricades and breath analysers are monitoring traffic and identifying suspicious movements. Celebration venues, including 31 key locations, are under enhanced security coverage, while 15 malls, motels, cinema halls and other popular gathering spots are being strictly monitored. Security has also been reinforced at bus stops and critical road routes, with personnel deployed on 40 motorcycles to ensure quick response times. Additionally, eight prominent hotels here are under heightened surveillance, he added. DCP Chauhan said the deployment comprises seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 40 inspectors, 223 sub-inspectors and assistant sub-inspectors, along with 130 female personnel. Enhanced security will be in place at more than 20 border points, with extra barricades and pickets to manage potential disturbances from people arriving from neighbouring states. The focus of security will be on popular destinations such as Connaught Place, Hauz Khas, India Gate, and areas near malls and markets. Special attention will be given to traffic management, particularly to prevent dangerous driving behaviours like motorcycle stunts and drunk driving. Additional officers will support traffic police, and penalties will be imposed on violators. At Connaught Place, only vehicles with valid permits issued by the police will be allowed into the Inner Circle area. Additionally, police teams will be conducting checks at bus stands, railway stations, hotels, and other public spaces to ensure that individuals are staying legally and with proper documentation. Additionally, as many as 11 CAPF companies and 40 motorcycle patrol teams alongside an equal number of foot patrol teams have been pressed into service. Post 8 p.m. on New Year's eve till the conclusion of the celebrations, well after midnight, the traffic control measures will remain in place in and around Connaught Place. In the New Delhi district, arrangements have been divided into two zones under the supervision of senior officers. Zone 1 covers areas like Parliament Street and Connaught Place, while Zone 2 includes Chanakya Puri, Barakhamba Road and Tughlak Road. A total of 648 police personnel, 100 Home Guard jawans and 11 companies of the CAPF had been deployed, said DCP (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla. Delhi's Connaught Place, India Gate, and Hauz Khas are popular spots for New Year's Eve celebrations, where people come with their family and friends to welcome the New Year. The Delhi Police will take proactive measures to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety around such areas. The Delhi Traffic Police will have the manpower of around 2,500 personnel to ensure the smooth movement of vehicles. Around 250 teams will also be formed to keep a check on drunken driving on New Year's eve. According to the advisory issued by the Delhi Police on X, no vehicles will be allowed to proceed into the Connaught Place area beyond certain points such as Mandi House, Bengali Market, and various other key intersections. The area will only be open to vehicles with valid passes to enter the inner, middle, or outer circles of Connaught Place. Parking will also be limited in certain areas, with specific locations designated for parking near Gole Dak Khana, Patel Chowk, and Mandi House on a first-come, first-served basis. Unauthorised vehicles parked in such areas will face towing and penalties from the authorities. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has also issued an advisory, stating that exit from the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station will not be allowed after 9 p.m. Entry will be open till the last train passes the station. "As advised by the police authorities, to ease overcrowding on New Year's Eve (December 31, 2023), exit from Rajiv Chowk metro station will not be allowed from 9 p.m. onwards. However, entry of passengers will be allowed till the departure of the last train from Rajiv Chowk metro station," said the DMRC in a statement. "Commuters are requested to plan their journey accordingly," it added. Service will remain available as per the regular timetable on the rest of the Metro network. For those travelling to the New Delhi Railway Station, alternative routes have been suggested, such as Ram Manohar Lohiya Park Street, Mandir Marg, and Rani Jhansi Road. People have been advised to use the metro for their travels. The authorities have advised commuters to avoid Bhairon Road/Mathura Road between Hazrat Nizamuddin and Pragati Maidan as they could get stuck in congestion. United Nations, Dec 31 : Pakistan joins the UN Security Council on Wednesday subtly changing the balance in the world organisation's highest decision-making body and getting a virtual veto power over sanctioning terrorists it harbours. Elected in June as a non-permanent member, it will replace Japan for a two-year term on one of the two seats for Asia Pacific countries in the Council. Now Islamabad will not have to rely on Beijing to protect its terrorists like the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Sajid Mir, at the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, which designates individuals and groups associated with those two organisations as terrorists and imposes sanctions. Although only permanent members have a veto over decisions of the Council, non-permanent members have a virtual veto in the sanctions committees for terrorism because they act through consensus under accepted norms. The virtual veto given by the consensus procedure has been denounced, with New Zealand, a former head of the Islamic State-al-Qaeda sanctions panel calling it "the single biggest inhibitor to Committee effectiveness". India has described the working of the sanctions committees as "subterranean" based on "obscure practices" without legal basis and called for transparency so that the rationale for decisions and how they are made is revealed. Pakistan also gets a soapbox at the Council to amplify its campaign on Kashmir, an issue it routinely brings up regardless of the subject under discussion, launching virulent attacks on India. However, this will be more of a continuing publicity stunt because it has been a voice in the wilderness unable to get any other country to join in despite trying to link Kashmir to the Palestine problem. When Pakistan takes the presidency of the Council in July, it can convene at least two of what are called Signature Events on topics of its choice with high-level participation, both its own and invitees. Even if it doesn't directly make it an "anti-India" show, it can take a topic that it can manipulate for propaganda on India and Kashmir. With Japan retiring, there is a subtle change in the balance at the polarised Council where a triumvirate of China, Russia and Pakistan will emerge on many issues. The other Asian member is South Korea, which like Japan, is pro-Western. In the General Assembly, Pakistan has tracked China's voting on many issues, especially Ukraine when it joined Beijing in voting on a resolution naming Russia as the aggressor, while generally abstaining. On Palestine, Pakistan has been a vociferous supporter of its cause and can be expected to raise the decibel in the Council, where it can go head-to-head with the US, which will redouble its backing for Israel under President-elect Donald Trump who has said hardliner Elise Stefanik will be his nominee to be the permanent representative. Islamabad straddles a dichotomy on terrorism -- while backing or deploying terrorists against India, it denounces terrorism directed against it by groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) that it says are based in Afghanistan. It can be expected to denounce what it describes as Afghanistan's role in terrorism and try to get groups it says target it sanctioned. The Asia Pacific group rotates its nominees for the Council, which are selected through consensus. The group's 53 members range from tiny Nauru in the east to Cyprus at the edge of Europe on the West. After heavy canvassing, Islamabad got the backing of about 20 countries as diverse as China, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon and Singapore and the group endorsed it in 2023. Pakistan received 182 votes in the 193-member General Assembly for its eighth turn on the Council. Caracas, Dec 31 : Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil has criticised US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for supporting "the worst opposition" in South America. The Foreign Minister made the remarks on Monday on social media after Blinken voiced US support for two Venezuelan opposition figures. Gil said that Washington has failed many times to "fight against" Venezuela during the past four years and this time it will be "no different". He said that the Venezuelan people and government will overcome the obstacles made by the US and build a sovereign and independent country. According to local media, Blinken pledged to "commit to a peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela" in a telephone with Venezuelan opposition figures on Monday. The US Secretary of State praised the "resilience" of Venezuela's democratic opposition during a call with Venezuelan Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, the State Department said on Monday. In a statement issued by US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller after the call, Gonzalez was recognized as Venezuela's "President-elect". According to the statement, Blinken "commended the democratic opposition's resilience and the Venezuelan people's commitment to democracy in the face of repression and adversity". He also reiterated the US stands in solidarity with the international community in expressing condemnation of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's "anti-democratic actions". "Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the will of the Venezuelan people as expressed at the ballot box, the peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela, and the release of all unjustly detained political prisoners," Miller added. The call came amid heightened political tensions in Venezuela as Maduro plans to his swearing-in ceremony on January 10 for the 2025-2031 presidential term. The Opposition has claimed victory in the July 28 election, while Venezuela's Supreme Court declared Maduro the winner. The Biden administration's recognition of Gonzalez as President-elect has further intensified international pressure on Maduro's regime. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 30, the Standing Committee of the 14th People's Congress of Hubei Province issued the "Regulations on Promoting the Development of Intelligent Connected Vehicles in Wuhan" (hereinafter referred to as "the Regulations"), which will be enacted on March 1, 2025. Robotaxi operating in Wuhan; photo credit: Robotaxi The Regulations propose measures, including fostering intelligent connected vehicle (ICV) development and technological innovation, intensifying infrastructure construction, and enhancing the promotion and application of technologies related to ICVs. In regard to fostering ICV development and technological innovation, the Regulations indicate the role of technological innovation in advancing the ICV industry and its applications. This move is set to transition ICVs from transportation tools to mobile intelligent terminals, energy storage units, and digital spaces. It also calls for integration and innovation across multiple sectors, including automotive, energy, transportation, information communication, and artificial intelligence (AI). Additionally, the Regulations support the establishment of joint R&D and technology resource-sharing service platforms for ICVs. The initiative aims to open up high-quality resources to the public and provide technological services such as testing, inspection, and pilot trials. Besides, it promotes the construction and sharing of computing platforms to enhance the role of AI-related computing power, algorithms, and data in supporting industrial development. Regarding infrastructure construction, the Regulations support communication service providers to optimize communication networks based on the specific needs of ICV applications. These upgrades will focus on creating low-latency, high-reliability, and high-density communication networks. It also supports the safe application of dedicated wireless communication frequency bands for ICVs and advocates for the use of HD maps, crowd-sourced data collection, and high-precision navigation technologies in the sector. As for promoting the application of new technologies, the Regulations encourage the adoption of new technologies and products for ICVs. It also supports road testing, demonstration applications, commercial pilots, and commercial operations, thereby accelerating the technological iteration and industrialization of ICVs. New Delhi, Dec 31 : The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), a strategic alliance of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, is marking 20 years of cooperation. Established in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, the Quad has evolved into a significant platform supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. In a joint statement commemorating the milestone, the Quad Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ASEAN's centrality and unity, emphasising the grouping's continued dedication to addressing regional challenges. "Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, our nations came together to support millions of people affected by one of the worst disasters in history. We honour the memories of those lost and recognise the survivors," the statement read. It noted that over 40,000 emergency responders from the four countries collaborated to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, a commitment that remains integral to the Quad's mission. "Our foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region," the statement reads further. The Quad has broadened its scope over the years, addressing complex regional and global challenges. Recent initiatives include combating climate change, enhancing maritime domain awareness, promoting STEM education, countering terrorism, and bolstering cybersecurity. "What began as an emergency response has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the region. Our nations now collaborate with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address a wide array of challenges," the statement added. "Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quad's positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific," it read. "As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN's centrality and unity as well as the mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the region's premier organisation," the statement added. "The Quad is committed to working together in responding to the future needs of the region," it added. In 2024, Quad members announced several maritime security initiatives. A key highlight was the launch of the Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) to help regional partners monitor and secure their waters. India is set to host the inaugural MAITRI workshop in 2025. Additionally, the Quad introduced a logistics network pilot project aimed at enhancing collective airlift capacities to support civilian responses to natural disasters more efficiently. A maritime legal dialogue was also initiated to uphold the rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. The Wellington Declaration, issued after the Quad's fourth in-person summit earlier this year, expressed concerns over "recent dangerous and aggressive actions in the maritime domain," a pointed reference to China's activities in the South China Sea. The Quad Cancer Moonshot was another significant announcement this year, focusing initially on combating cervical cancer. India pledged $7.5 million worth of testing kits and technical assistance, with other member countries committing their own resources. The Quad reaffirmed its unwavering support for ASEAN's centrality, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, stressing their importance in maintaining regional stability and prosperity. "As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous. We remain committed to addressing the region's future needs," the statement concluded. With its 20-year legacy of cooperation, the Quad continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the Indo-Pacific's geopolitical and economic landscape. Washington, Dec 31 : A US federal appeals court has upheld a jury's decision ordering President-elect Donald Trump to pay $5 million for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll. The verdict, reached after a nine-day civil trial in New York last year, found Trump guilty of sexually abusing Carroll in a Manhattan department store in 1996. The jury awarded Carroll $2 million for the abuse and an additional $3 million for defamation after Trump publicly denied her claims. Trump appealed the ruling, arguing that the testimonies of two other women who had accused him of sexual assault should not have been admitted as evidence. However, the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed his appeal, stating, "Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings. Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial." In a separate case brought by Carroll, a jury awarded her $83 million in damages. Trump has also appealed that verdict. Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, announced plans to appeal the $5 million judgment. In a statement, Cheung accused Democrats of politically targeting Trump, calling the case a "hoax" and asserting that the "American people re-elected President Trump with an overwhelming mandate." Cheung further criticised the judicial system, alleging political weaponisation and demanding an end to investigations against Trump. Meanwhile, special counsel Jack Smith has dropped two federal cases against Trump, citing a Justice Department policy against prosecuting a sitting President. The cases involved allegations of mishandling classified documents and attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. However, Trump still faces legal challenges. In May, he was convicted in New York on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Although Judge Juan Merchan recently denied Trump's request to overturn the conviction, sentencing has been postponed indefinitely. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday lauded the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for successfully launching the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission. The mission was launched on Monday at 10 p.m. The PSLV C60 rocket carrying two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), along with 24 payloads, lifted off from the first launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. About 15 minutes after liftoff, the two small spacecraft weighing about 220 kg each were launched into a 475-km circular orbit as intended. Commending on the feat, the Home Minister said this was a grand success and opened a new path for the country's space docking technology. He wrote on X, "Bharat paces to become the fourth nation to master space docking. Kudos to Team@isro on the successful launch of #SpaDeX Mission. This is a grand success that opens a new path for Bharat in space docking technology and strengthens its role as a global leader in space. All my best wishes to our geniuses for the journey ahead." India is now the fourth country, after the US, Russia, and China, to master the docking technology. "India becomes the fourth to join the select league of nations to seek Space docking, through its own indigenously developed 'Bharatiya Docking System'," said Union Minister Jitendra Singh on X. The technology will "pave the way for journey beyond the kies for "Gaganyaan" and "Bharatiya Antriksha Station", Singh said. SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a pioneering mission to establish India's capability in orbital docking, a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions, ISRO said. The PSLV lifted off with two small spacecraft -- SDX01, the chaser, and SDX02, the Target -- weighing about 220 kg each. The satellites merged or joined for docking in a low-Earth circular orbit. ISRO is to wait for four days for docking orientation to evaluate the software process The Bharatiya Docking System includes a docking mechanism, a suite of four rendezvous and docking sensors, power transfer technology, an Indigenous novel autonomous rendezvous and docking strategy, and an inter-satellite communication link (ISL) for autonomous communication between spacecraft, incorporated with inbuilt intelligence to know the states of the other spacecraft, among others. Mastering the space docking technology may not only propel India into the elite club of spacefaring nations. It is also key for India'simpending space missions including the Moon mission, setting up the Indian space station, and lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4 without the support of GNSS from Earth. According to ISRO, it will also demonstrate the transfer of electric power between the docked spacecraft, which is essential for future applications such as in-space robotics -- composite spacecraft control, and payload operations after undocking. SpaDEX will also use PSLV's fourth stage, POEM-4, for experiments. The stage also carries 24 payloads from academic institutions and startups. Chennai, Dec 31 : The Tamil Nadu Police have deployed 25,000 personnel equipped with drones and CCTV surveillance to ensure law and order during New Year's Eve celebrations in Chennai and its suburbs. The security arrangements involve police drawn from Greater Chennai Police (GCP), Tambaram, and Avadi city police. Of the total force, 19,000 police personnel, assisted by 1,500 Home Guards, will be stationed under GCP limits. Tambaram and Avadi city police will each deploy 3,000 personnel. Coastal areas, including Marina, Santhome, Elliots, and Neelankarai beaches within Chennai city limits, as well as Panaiyur and Kovalam in Tambaram city limits, will be closely monitored. The police have prohibited the bursting of firecrackers in all locations, including public spaces and residential areas. The use of loudspeakers in residential areas and apartments is also restricted, requiring prior permission from the police and relevant departments. According to a statement from Greater Chennai Police, checkpoints have been set up at over 500 locations across Chennai, Tambaram, and Avadi city police limits. Additionally, 425 vehicle inspection teams have been deployed in Tambaram to monitor traffic and prevent violations. A total of 37 teams will conduct checks for drunk driving and prevent illegal bike racing. Road safety teams will patrol the streets on two-wheelers to assist the public and promote safety awareness. Tambaram city police have established 15 monitoring teams in areas like ECR, OMR, and GST roads to prevent bike racing. Temporary Police Assistance Booths will be set up in sand areas, while security reinforcements and drone cameras will ensure added vigilance. The Tamil Nadu Police Department, Coast Guard, and Marina Beach Lifeguards have implemented security measures, including the installation of warning boards in beach-adjacent areas. Ambulances with medical personnel will be on standby near major gathering spots. This extensive deployment comes in the wake of criticism faced by Tamil Nadu Police over law and order issues earlier in the year. The murder of K. Armstrong, president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and a prominent Dalit leader, on July 5, 2024, sent shockwaves across the state. Chennai city police also faced public backlash following the killings of history-sheeters, including Thiruvengadam, who was accused in Armstrongas murder case. Los Angeles, Dec 31 : Hollywood stars Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have arrived at a settlement to their divorce after eight years of legal battle. The pair finalised their terms and signed off on the split on December 30, reports 'Variety'. The actress' lawyer James Simon in a statement, "More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family". He further mentioned, "This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over". Also according to the statement, the 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' co-stars have requested a 10 to 15-day jury trial and will participate in a settlement conference or mediation session as an alternative method of quelling any outstanding disagreements. As per 'Variety', in 2016, the two made headlines when an alleged physical altercation occurred on a private plane where Pitt reportedly "choked" one of his children and "struck another in the face". The news was first reported by 'People' magazine. It was also claimed that he "grabbed Jolie by the head and shook her". A filing was made against Pitt anonymously after the fact, but the subjects of the lawsuit were revealed to be Pitt and Jolie in 2022. In April, the actress' lawyer filed a claim that alleged Pitt's physical abuse "started well before" the 2016 incident. It also accused Pitt of not allowing Jolie to sell her half of their Chateau Miraval winery unless she signed "a nondisclosure agreement that would have contractually prohibited her from speaking outside of court about Pitt's physical and emotional abuse of her and their children". Kochi, Dec 31 : The medical board attending Congress legislator Uma Thomas on Tuesday reported a slight improvement in her condition. She remains stable but continues to be critical. The head of the medical team at the private hospital, where she is on a ventilator, stated that her sedation dose was reduced at 6 a.m. on Tuesday to assess her progress. "After an hour, we evaluated her. She was awake and responsive to our treatments. The brain injury has subsided, but her lungs remain a concern. An X-ray shows slight improvement, but preventing infection is a challenge as she has three fractured ribs and blood in her lungs. We are administering antibiotics and plan to keep her on the ventilator for another 24 hours before attempting a gradual weaning process," the medical head explained. Umaas son, Vishnu, shared an emotional moment with her in the morning. "When I called her 'Amma,' she opened her eyes. I asked her to lift her hands and legs, and she did both. She extended her hand when I requested a handshake," Vishnu recounted. The incident occurred Sunday evening at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, owned by the CPI(M)-controlled Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA). Uma Thomas tripped over a barricade near the VIP pavilion after greeting State Culture Minister Saji Cherian. The mishap happened during a Guinness World Record attempt for a mass dance performance featuring around 12,500 participants. The accident has sparked a blame game, with authorities launching an investigation into the event's organization. Reports indicate that the organizers collected a significant amount of fees from participants, many of whom have criticized the event's poor management. Police have arrested two persons associated with the event management company and the firm that constructed the makeshift stage. Joseph Alex, convener of the Congress-led UDF in the Thrikkakara Assembly constituency represented by Uma Thomas, accused the GCDA of negligence. "The program required approval from the police and the corporation. What was the GCDA monitoring committee doing during the stage construction? The charges against the organizers are superficial. GCDA officials should also be held accountable," Alex asserted, adding that he has filed a formal complaint with local police. Uma Thomas, the widow of Congress veteran P.T. Thomas, represents the Thrikkakara Assembly constituency. She entered politics after her husband died in December 2021, winning a bypoll with a landslide margin of over 25,000 votes, defying expectations of a Left victory. A former student leader during college, Uma is known for her polite demeanor and well-researched speeches in the Assembly. As the only woman Congress legislator in the current Assembly, she holds a significant and symbolic position in her party. Mhow : , Dec 31 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that India's defence exports have surpassed a record level of Rs 21,000 crore from a mere Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago. Addressing officers at the Army War College (AWC) here on Monday, he said the government has set a Rs 50,000 crore target for defence exports crore by 2029. He highlighted the radical changes in warfare with unconventional methods like information warfare, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, proxy warfare, electromagnetic warfare, space warfare, and cyber-attacks presenting a big challenge. He stressed the need for the military to be well-trained and equipped to fight off such attacks and praised the training centres in Mhow for their valuable contribution. Defence Minister Singh commended the training centres for constantly improving their training curriculum as per changing times, and striving to make the personnel fighting fit to take up every kind of challenge. He urged the officers to explore the possibility of promoting integration through areas such as weapons training in Infantry School; AI and communication technology in the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), and leadership - junior and senior command in AWC. He further stated that the Modi government is committed to strengthening integration and jointness among the three defence services. "In the times to come, the armed forces will be able to face challenges together in a better and more efficient way," the defence minister said. He pointed out that some officers would work as defence attaches in the future, and they should strive to secure national interests at the global level. "When you take up this post of defence attaches, you should imbibe the government's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Only through self-reliance can India strengthen its defence capabilities and gain more respect on the world stage," he explained. Defence Minister Singh said the government is committed to making India one of the strongest economic and military powers in the world. "Economic prosperity is possible only when full attention is paid to security. Similarly, the security system will be robust only when the economy is strong. Both complement each other," he observed. Defence Minister Singh hailed the role of armed forces in securing the borders and being the first responders during natural disasters. He was briefed by AWC commandant Lt Gen HS Sahi on the role and significance of the institute in training and empowering military leaders for warfighting across the spectrum of conflict. The defence minister was also briefed on the significant steps in training methodology through jointness in multi-domain operations, infusion of technology in training curriculum and exchange programmes being undertaken with academia, universities and industries along with training of CAPF officers, a release stated. He was also apprised about the global footprints of the institute achieved through training officers from friendly countries and contributing immensely towards military diplomacy. The defence minister laid a wreath and paid homage to brave-hearts at the Infantry Memorial. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials of the Army were present on the occasion. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi, Dec 31 : In a significant step toward achieving the goal of a "Drug-Free Delhi by 2027," set by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, the Delhi Police have intensified its crackdown on narcotics. In a recent operation, the Special Staff of the South East District successfully dismantled a narco-syndicate involved in distributing illicit heroin across Delhi-NCR, the police said in a statement on Tuesday. The operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals -- Amans Osaretin alias Fred and Thompson Apiti alias Emeka -- along with the recovery of 442 grams of high-quality heroin. The Delhi Police reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against narcotics trafficking and its commitment to building a safer, drug-free society, officials said. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ravi Kumar said, "Acting on credible intelligence provided by Sub-Inspector Praveen Kumar of the Special Staff, a team was constituted under the supervision of ACP Operations Dalip Kumar. The team, led by Inspector Rajender Singh Dagar and comprising Sub-Inspectors Shubham Chaudhary, Phool Singh, Vinod Kumar, Rajbir Singh, and other personnel, conducted the operation on December 26." The arrest took place near Gate No. 1, Siddhartha Enclave, Ashram Ring Road, Delhi. Acting on a tip-off, the team intercepted Amans Osaretin near his Skoda car. During a thorough search, 442 grams of heroin were discovered concealed in a Real Juice Tetra pack hidden in his jacket. Following the arrest, a case was registered under sections 21/61/85 of the NDPS Act at PS Sunlight Colony. During interrogation, Amans revealed that he had procured the drugs from his associate, Thompson Apiti, at Janakpuri Metro Station. He was going to deliver the drug to Jasola or Ashram Metro Station, he said. Based on this information and technical surveillance, the team tracked and nabbed Thompson Apiti from Dalip Vihar, Chander Vihar, Nilothi Extension, Delhi. Two mobile phones used for drug transactions were also recovered, the DCP added. The accused disclosed details of an extensive network spanning multiple states, targeting vulnerable communities for wholesale and retail drug distribution. Their operations included elaborate supply chains for procuring and distributing heroin throughout Delhi-NCR. This successful operation highlights the Delhi Police's relentless efforts to combat drug trafficking and their dedication to ensuring a safer, drug-free future for the city, the officials said. Los Angeles, Dec 31 : After being ousted from the DC cinematic universe as Aquaman, Hollywood star Jason Momoa is returning to the fold. However, the actor won't return as Aquaman but as a new character. The actor has signed on to play antihero Lobo in 'Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow', reports 'Variety'. The superhero movie starring 'House of the Dragon' actor Milly Alcock as the eponymous hero, is set to be the second film in James Gunn and Peter Safran's rebooted DC Universe following the highly anticipated 'Superman' starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. As per 'Variety', Craig Gillespie is directing the film, which also stars Matthias Schoenaerts as villain Krem of the Yellow Hill and Eve Ridley as Ruthye Mary Knolle. Ana Nogueira ('The Vampire Diaries') wrote the screenplay based on the run of DC comics by Tom King and Bilquis Evely. The actor confirmed the casting news on Instagram by sharing a quote from an interview with Fandango during the press tour for 'Aquaman 2' where he discussed his longtime fandom of the character, an anti-hero known for his violent and irreverent personality. "I collect comics, and I don't do so much anymore, but he was always my favorite, and I always wanted to play Lobo, because I'm like, 'Hello? It's the perfect role", he said in the interview. "I mean, listen. If they call and ask me to play him, it's a f*** yeah. I haven't received that call, so I don't want to put any fake news out there, but if they ever call me and ask me to play, or ask me to audition, I'm there". -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 28, Anhui Wuyao Automotive Glass Co., Ltd. (Anhui Wuyao) officially commenced the operation of its automotive glass project with an annual production capacity of 4 million sets in Bengbu city, Anhui province, according to a post on local authority's WeChat account. At the event, the company's first automotive glass product also rolled off the production line, discontinuing Anhui province's history of lacking the automotive glass manufacturing capability. Photo credit: Bengbu Daily As the largest automotive glass production base of Wuhan Wuyao Safety Glass Co., Ltd. (WYP Glass) in China, Anhui Wuyao is poised to surpass the scale of its Wuhan headquarters once fully operational. It will serve as a key strategic hub targeting the Yangtze River Delta market. WYP Glass, a Chinese supplier of automotive glass and relevant assembly systems, provides wide range of products and services to many renowned automakers, including BYD, Dongfeng Honda, Dongfeng Nissan, Great Wall Motor, and Geely. At the end of 2023, WYP Glass signed an agreement with local authority of the Bengbu High-Tech Zone to invest 2 billion yuan in a new energy vehicle (NEV) glass project with an annual capacity of 4 million sets, making it the first automotive glass project in Anhui Province. After nearly a year of construction, the project officially started operations in Bengbu city, filling the gap in the production of high-end automotive glass in Anhui province. Photo credit: Bengbu Daily The project is set to be built in two phases. The first phase, with a 500-million-yuan investment, involves the renovation of approximately 150,000 square meters of factory buildings and supporting facilities, the purchase and installation of automotive glass processing and production equipment, as well as public utilities. It will feature six automotive glass production lines, including front windshield and roof glass, door glass, side window glass, and rear windshield production lines, with an annual production capacity of 1-million-set automotive glass. The second phase, with an investment of 1.5 billion yuan, will achieve production capacity of 3 million sets annually. In the first phase, Anhui Wuyao has purchased equipment including nine corner window injection molding machines and door glass, and deployed smart production lines for glass manufacturing, with a total investment exceeding 100 million yuan. The products have been supplied to automakers such as Hefei BYD and Chery, generating over 22 million yuan in sales revenue. The project achieved construction, production, and regulatory approval within the same year. Additionally, production lines for front windshield, side windows, and rear windshield glass, involving an investment of over 150 million yuan, will begin operations by the end of September 2025, enabling the full production capability for NEV glass. Furthermore, the second automotive door glass and front windshield production lines are expected to be completed by the end of May 2026, further enhancing Anhui Wuyao's production capacity. New Delhi, Dec 31 : India has witnessed a tenfold rise in exports of bananas in the past decade and is now targeting $1 billion in banana exports in the next five years after successful trial shipments to the Netherlands via the sea route, according to the Centre's Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). New Delhi, Dec 31 (IANS) India has witnessed a tenfold rise in exports of bananas in the past decade and is now targeting $1 billion in banana exports in the next five years after successful trial shipments to the Netherlands via the sea route, according to the Centreas Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). With the sea route opening up, Russia is expected to emerge as a major market for Indian banana exports. India is currently reliant on the air route which is a high-cost mode of transport and limits the quantity of the fruit that can be exported. In the fiscal year 2023-24, India exported bananas worth US$ 300 million, a significant increase from US$ 176 million in 2022-23. The countryas share in global banana exports has risen from just 0.21 per cent in 2013 to 1.74 per cent in 2023, highlighting its growing presence in the international market, according to figures compiled by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. To enhance export volumes, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is developing sea protocols for fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and jackfruit. These protocols aim to facilitate ocean transport, making it more feasible for Indian farmers to reach international markets. The Indian government is actively supporting banana cultivation and export through various initiatives, including financial assistance for farmers, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced market access. As domestic farmers adopt modern agricultural practices, they are producing higher quantities of better-quality bananas, positioning India as a key player in the global banana industry. Meanwhile, among states, Uttar Pradesh has also emerged as a banana exporter. The state government has been proactive in promoting banana cultivation and has declared it as the One District One Product (ODOP) for Kushinagar. This spells substantial benefits for banana growers in the state as they are being provided subsidies as incentives to cultivate high-quality bananas that meet market demands. In Uttar Pradesh's Purvanchal and Awadh regions, districts like Kushinagar, Deoria, Gorakhpur, Maharajganj, Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Amethi, and Barabanki are extensively engaged in banana farming, the state government said. Over the past decade and a half, the acreage under banana cultivation has increased. Additionally, adopting superior varieties and advanced farming techniques have improved the quality and yield of the crop, the statement added. Mumbai, Dec 31 : After the opposition's scathing attack over his "mini Pakistan" statement, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane has clarified that Kerala is very much part of India while expressing concern over the falling population of Hindus. "Kerala is ours. It is very much part of our nation. It will remain ours. In future, Kerala will become 'bhagwadhari (saffronise)', I am confident about it,aa remarked Nitesh Rane after he was strongly criticised by the opposition parties over his statement -- "Kerala is mini Pakistan that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister are elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. This is the truth, you can ask. They have become MPs after taking terrorists with them". In his clarification, the Minister further said that the religious conversion of Hindus into Christians and Muslims is a daily feature in Kerala. There has been an increase in love jihad cases there. "In my speech, I was comparing the situation with the way Hindus are treated in Pakistan. If a similar situation arises in Kerala, then we have to think about it," he added. He further stated, "We want our Hindu Rashtra to remain Hindu Rashtra where Hindus should be protected. Whatever I said was based on facts." He dared the opposition parties, especially the Congress party to prove him wrong. "Those who supported Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi in elections are anti-nationals, we have this information. All India Muslim League, who worked against the nation, had worked in close association with Congress. If someone talks against our nation then we as workers have to take a stand against them. If someone raises the Pakistan flag, then should we not talk about it?" he asked. Earlier, Congress Working Committee member and former Maharashtra minister Balasaheb Thorat said, "Calling a state like Kerala a mini Pakistan, calling those who vote for Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi terrorists, can only be done by BJP Ministers. If they can't do anything positive, BJP leaders are implementing the same agenda of Hindus, Muslims, India and Pakistan. A person sitting in the post of minister should be conscious while speaking and behaving in public, but Nitesh Rane has crossed all limits! The Chief Minister should at least make his colleague understand that this language and this behaviour are not appropriate, the minister should at least remember that he took an oath while assuming his office and should behave in a way that will not increase the rift in the society." State Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and questioned the need for Nitesh Rane to remain part of the state cabinet. Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad demanded that Nitesh Rane should be expelled from the cabinet. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Uttarakhand is preparing to roll out a new undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) syllabus next year, developed under the leadership of Kumaun University Vice-Chancellor Prof Diwan S. Rawat. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Prof Rawat discussed the motivations, plans, and collaborations shaping the University's new initiatives, which include free education for orphans and a Rs 100 crore grant from the Central Government under the Prime Minister's Higher Education Campaign. He also discussed the tie-ups with American, Japanese, French and German experts. The university is also connecting with Indian military experts. Here are some excerpts from the interview. IANS: Why is a new syllabus needed? Prof Rawat: The current syllabus for UG and PG programs is completely outdated. For example, science students are studying irrelevant concepts because technology has changed dramatically. We need a curriculum that reflects current advancements and prepares students for real-world challenges. IANS: What will the new syllabus include, and will it apply to all universities? Prof Rawat: Yes, it will be implemented across all universities and colleges in Uttarakhand. We are designing a research-based, scientific syllabus with inputs from experts at leading universities like Delhi University. Industry leaders have also been consulted to ensure the syllabus develops skills that align with market requirements. IANS: Is the University receiving support from the Central Government? Prof Rawat: Yes, weave received a Rs 100 crore grant under the Prime Minister's Higher Education Campaign. This is the first time the University has secured such a substantial grant, and itas being used to modernize classrooms and laboratories; promote innovation centres and interdisciplinary research; establish a Centre for Excellence in Himalayan Medicinal Plants and Wellness Lifestyle; and create a Patent Cell and provide internal research funding for faculty. IANS: How are resources being optimized to boost research? Prof Rawat: Weave implemented reforms to save costs. For example, weave introduced a transparent system for printing question papers and answer sheets, saving Rs 4.5 crore annually. These savings are being reinvested in research and infrastructure. Recently, we allocated Rs 1.25 crore to support researchers. Additionally, we are providing free education to students who have lost both parents and cannot afford fees. IANS: Are there any collaborations with foreign institutions? Prof Rawat: Absolutely. Weave collaborated with Georgia University in the USA and have visiting faculties from countries like the USA, China, Japan, Sweden, France, and Germany. We also have an MOU with ChargA CCCV (C4V) in New York, which offers PhD students Rs 8 lakh annually for research. Furthermore, weave partnered with the American Chemical Society (ACS) and work closely with IIT Roorkee and IIM Kashipur. IANS: How is the University leveraging Uttarakhandas military connections? Prof Rawat: Uttarakhand has a deep connection with the armed forces. Weave established a Directorate for Visiting and Honorary Professors, appointing retired military officers as visiting professors. They conduct free training programs for NDA, SSB, and CDS aspirants. Weare also exploring collaborations with military academies for joint research and training initiatives. IANS: How is the University addressing migration challenges in Uttarakhand? Prof Rawat: To tackle migration, we aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We organize job fairs, industry-academic meets, and skill development programs. By connecting students with local industries, weare creating employment opportunities within the state. Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 31 : Kerala Chief Minister on Tuesday criticised Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane's "mini-Pakistan" statement, saying it is a serious breach of oath that insults the country's Constitution. Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 31 (IANS) Kerala Chief Minister on Tuesday criticised Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane's "mini-Pakistan" statement, saying it is a serious breach of oath that insults the country's Constitution. In a statement issued here by his office, CM Vijayan said Nitesh Rane's remarks are highly provocative and condemnable. and the Maharashtra minister's words reveal the Sangh Parivar's basic approach towards Kerala. "The Sangh Parivar believes that it can isolate the territory where it is difficult to establish influence by alienating it and spreading hate propaganda. Such statements are made in response to that," said CM Vijayan. "The minister who made the hateful statement does not deserve to continue in that position. It is surprising that the leadership of the ruling party in the country has not responded to the action of the minister who committed a serious breach of oath that insults the country's Constitution," added CM Vijayan. Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V D Satheesan, said Rane, who called Kerala a "mini-Pakistan" and insulted Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, should resign from his position as a minister. Satheesan reminded that a similar statement was also made by senior CPI(M) leader and politburo member A Vijayaraghavan, who said that Rahul secured victory in the Wayanad seat twice with the support of communal forces and that extremist elements were present at Priyanka Gandhi's campaign rallies. KPCC chief K Sudhakaran MP has alleged that both the BJP and the CPI(M) are orchestrating a coordinated effort to tarnish Kerala's secular legacy. In a statement, he said that BJP leader and Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane's hate speech, based on CPI(M) Politburo member Vijayaraghavan's statement, stands as evidence of this conspiracy. Rane made this provocative remark at a programme in Pune. He referred to Kerala as a "mini-Pakistan" and alleged that "only extremists in Kerala" vote for members of the Gandhi family, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi. Rane's statement triggered a political storm, drawing severe criticism from the opposition parties, who accused him of "spreading hatred" and demanded immediate action against him. Chennai, Dec 31 : The National Commission for Women (NCW) will submit a report to the Government of India on the sexual assault case that occurred at the Anna University campus. NCW member Mamta Kumari and her team returned to Delhi after conducting a two-day investigation into the sexual assault that took place on the Anna University campus on December 23. Speaking to media persons at Chennai airport, Mamta Kumari said, "We visited every corner of Anna University and conducted a thorough investigation. We met the victim girl and her family and gathered all the necessary information. We also met with the Governor of Tamil Nadu to discuss the matter." She added, "A detailed report on the investigation will be submitted to the central government through the National Commission for Women. Whoever is found guilty will face strict punishment. It is shocking that despite having over 20 cases against him, the accused was allowed to roam free." Mamta Kumari further questioned, "Why didn't the government take action earlier? The central government will ensure strict action against anyone who commits crimes against women." She expressed confidence that justice would be served and guilty parties would be punished. The incident involved a second-year engineering student of Anna University, who was sexually assaulted on the university campus. The attack occurred while the girl and her male friend were sitting after attending a midnight Christmas mass at a nearby church. According to the police, the accused attacked the male friend, brutally assaulting him before dragging the girl to nearby shrubs, where he raped her. The accused, Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor, was arrested immediately after the girl filed a complaint with the police. Following the incident, the Tamil Nadu BJP alleged that the accused, Gnanasekaran, was affiliated with the student wing of the ruling DMK. State BJP President K. Annamalai criticized the DMK government for the deteriorating law and order situation in Tamil Nadu. He staged a dramatic protest outside his residence in Coimbatore, flogging himself six times to symbolize the removal of evil. Annamalai also announced that he would undertake a 48-day fast and visit all six holy abodes of Lord Murugan as part of his protest. The Tamil Nadu BJP president lashed out at the police for leaking the FIR in the sexual assault case, stating that the leak intentionally revealed the identity of the 19-year-old victim, an engineering student of Anna University. He charged that the accused Gnanasekaran was not in the rowdy list of the Tamil Nadu police despite being involved in several cases. Annamalai said that this was due to the accused Gnanasekaran's proximity to the DMK leaders. The Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, also a former IPS officer, said that the accused Gnanasekaran was a functionary of the DMK and provided proof of the same. He also said that the DMK was trying to divert attention from the failing law and order situation of Tamil Nadu by creating a false narrative of the North-South divide. Canberra, Dec 31 : Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has used his New Year's message to declare that the country can become stronger in 2025. In the short video message released on Tuesday, Albanese described Australia as the greatest country in the world. "And in the year ahead, with new determination and renewed optimism, we can build an even stronger Australia together," he said. He thanked Australians who have worked through the holiday period, including defence force personnel, emergency service and health workers and people in hospitality and retail, for their sacrifice and said he hoped everyone has had time to relax and celebrate. Albanese will face a general election in 2025 where his Labor Party aims to win a second term in power. The election must be held by May, Xinhua news agency reported. In his own New Year's message, Peter Dutton, leader of the opposition Coalition, said that 2025 was an opportunity for Australia to get ' back on track.' As the world prepares to celebrate New Yearas Day on January 1, 2025, millions of people across the globe are set to mark the occasion with celebrations that reflect both personal and cultural traditions. The day represents more than just the start of a new calendar yeara"it is a moment of reflection, renewal, and optimism for the future. The global celebration of New Yearas Day is marked by a variety of unique customs and traditions. While the specific practices differ from culture to culture, the common theme of renewal and new beginnings is universal. Many people use the occasion to make New Yearas resolutions, pledging to improve themselves or their lives in some way over the coming year. These resolutions often focus on personal growth, whether through health, career, or relationships. The celebration also involves family gatherings, meals, and festivities. Traditional New Yearas foods vary by culture, but common dishes include black-eyed peas, cabbage, and champagne, each symbolising good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. These culinary traditions are not just about food; they carry a deeper meaning, as many believe that certain foods bring luck, wealth, and happiness. Damascus, Dec 31 : A Syrian national conference is set to take place in Damascus on January 4 and 5 to discuss the country's future after the fall of the Assad government, according to reports from various news outlets. The conference is expected to announce the dissolution of all armed factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, who played a key role in toppling the Assad government on December 8, Xinhua news agency reported quoting the Turkish broadcaster A Haber. This will be the first pan-national conference since the dramatic regime change in the Arab country. Organisers plan to invite around 1,200 Syrians from both inside and outside the country, with an additional 70 to 100 representatives from each province, covering a range of social groups, according to media reports. The conference is also expected to establish a constitutional drafting committee and propose the formation of a new government within a month. Representatives from youth groups, women's organisations, the clergy, and civil societies are set to participate. A preparatory committee will be formed for this forthcoming national conference. The Syrian interim administration, led by Ahmed al-sharaa, has not issued any official statement concerning the conference. In a separate development, on December 30, Syria's interim administration appointed Maysaa Sabrine as governor of the country's central bank. Sabrine, who held a master's degree in accounting, had served as the first deputy to the governor prior to her appointment, SANA reported. Sabrine had worked at the bank since October 2018, when she became director of the Government Commission there, the report stated. She had also led the bank's office-based oversight division and represented the bank on the board of the Damascus Securities Exchange, starting in December 2018, it added. No further details were provided on Sabrine's upcoming policies. However, the appointment marked a milestone for female representation in the financial sector of Syria's new political landscape. A military coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham had waged a major military operation from northern Syria on November 27. It swept southwards, captured the capital, Damascus, and overthrew former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government within 12 days. Jaipur, Dec 31 : The wait to rescue Chetna, the 3-year-old girl, trapped in a 700-foot deep borewell in Rajasthan's Kotputli, got longer as the rescue operation faced delays after it was found that the tunnel had been dug in the wrong direction, bringing in difficulty to trace the location of the girl. The tunnel being dug at a depth of around 170 feet has gone off course, according to Collector Kalpana Agarwal, who confirmed that the borewell spot was yet to be located. Despite this, efforts are ongoing, and rescue teams have not given up, said officials. For the past four days, a team of six jawans has been working to dig a 10-foot tunnel. Initially, officials had cited challenges like low oxygen levels and rocks inside the tunnel. However, reports that the tunnel was being dug in the wrong direction surfaced raising concerns about the planning of the operation. On December 30, both the Collector and NDRF had expressed hope that Chetna would soon be rescued. The family, holding onto this hope, remained by the borewell throughout the day. Chetna, from Badiyali ki Dhani in Kiratpura, fell into the borewell while playing on December 23. She has been trapped at a depth of about 120 feet, enduring hunger and thirst ever since. As the rescue operation faces delays, Chetna's family and the local villagers have accused the administration of negligence. They believe that prompt action could have led to an earlier rescue. In response, Collector Kalpana Agarwal met with the family on Monday evening around 6.30 p.m. to explain the difficulties being encountered in the rescue. She assured them that authorities are doing everything possible, and expert assistance is being sought. She acknowledged the complexity of the operation, which is why it is taking longer than expected. "We have not lost hope yet, and we will continue to do our best," said Collector Agarwal. Multiple expert teams have been called in to reassess the operation. Though the borewell spot has not yet been located, efforts to find it will continue by widening the tunnel's diameter, with the direction adjusted as needed. Patna, Dec 31 : Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary addressed the ongoing protests concerning the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) and reiterated that the commission operates as an autonomous body. He assured that BPSC would take decisions in the interests of the candidates. Choudhary discussed the unrest during a meeting with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at the latter's official residence, here on Tuesday. The agenda included addressing incidents of lathi charges and agitation by protesting candidates. This meeting followed Kumar's return from Delhi on Monday night, signaling prompt action on the BPSC issue. Highlighting BPSC's independence, Choudhary remarked, "Unlike other states, the Public Service Commission in Bihar is an autonomous body. It operates independently and will make decisions in the best interests of the students. The government has given BPSC a free hand to act in the students' favour." Sitamarhi MP Devesh Chandra Thakur also expressed hope, stating that the state government has taken cognizance of the matter and is working towards a resolution. He added that Bihar's Chief Secretary, Amrit Lal Meena, has engaged directly with the protesting students. Despite these assurances, candidates remain steadfast in their demand for a re-examination of the 70th Combined Preliminary Examination. Protests at Gardanibagh still persist, with aspirants awaiting a definitive stance from both the BPSC and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. On Monday, two delegations of candidates presented their grievances to Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena. One was led by Jan Suraaj leader Prashant Kishor, while the other was led by Purnea MP Rajeh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav. Both groups called for a re-examination, underlining widespread concerns over the examination's integrity. The controversy began on December 13, when candidates at the Bapu Examination Centre in Kumhrar, Patna, boycotted the Preliminary Test due to delayed question papers. Allegations of malpractice emerged as videos surfaced showing mobile phone use and inadequate security at the centre. In response, BPSC canceled the examination at the Bapu Centre and rescheduled it for December 4. However, students demanded cancellation across all centers, citing systemic irregularities. The situation escalated on Sunday when Patna police resorted to lathi charges and water cannons to disperse candidates marching towards the Chief Minister's residence under Prashant Kishor's leadership. Several students sustained injuries during the clashes. As the agitation continues, the onus is now on the BPSC and the state government to address the students' grievances and ensure fairness in the examination process. Dubai, Dec 31 : West Indies opener Hayley Matthews capped off 2024 in style, smashing her seventh ODI century to re-enter the top 10 of the ICC women's batting rankings. Dubai, Dec 31 (IANS) West Indies opener Hayley Matthews capped off 2024 in style, smashing her seventh ODI century to re-enter the top 10 of the ICC womenas batting rankings. Matthewsa brilliant 106 off 109 balls in the second ODI against India not only guided her team to a competitive total but also elevated her to a joint-seventh position in the rankings with a rating of 652. She now shares the spot with Australiaas star left-hander Beth Mooney. While Matthews excelled, Australiaas Alyssa Healy, who scored a half-century earlier in the series, slipped one spot to third in the rankings (720 points), overtaken by Sri Lankaas Chamari Athapaththu (733 points), who moved into second place. Indiaas Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh also saw upward movement in the rankings. Rodrigues jumped four spots to 22nd after scoring 29 and 52 in the series, while Ghosh moved up seven places to 41st, aided by her unbeaten scores of 13 and 23. Meanwhile, Chinelle Henry of the West Indies surged 21 places to 65th, courtesy of her resilient half-century in the final ODI. Indiaas Deepti Sharma was the standout bowler of the series, claiming eight wickets across two matches, including a career-best 6/31 in the third ODI. This dominant performance closed the gap between Deepti and South Africaas Marizanne Kapp in the bowling rankings. Deepti retained her fifth position but now sits just 12 points behind Kapp, with a rating of 665. Hayley Matthewsa off-spin also earned her a two-spot jump to seventh in the bowling rankings, surpassing Englandas Charlie Dean and Bangladeshas Nahida Akter. Indiaas Titas Sadhu made her entry into the top 100 for the first time, marking a significant milestone in her young career. Despite their stellar individual performances, neither Matthews nor Deepti climbed in the ICC all-rounder rankings. Matthews remains in third place, and Deepti holds firm in sixth. However, Chinelle Henryas all-round contributions in the series pushed her up six spots to share the 27th position with Australiaas Megan Schutt. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 28, Great Wall Motor officially began delivery of the SOUO S2000 model under the company's motorcycle brand SOUO. Additionally, the brand's flagship store in Beijing also opened its doors. SOUO S2000; photo credit: SOUO Hitting the market on October 26 this year, the SOUO S2000 is available in three variants: the Founder edition, the GL three-case version, and the ST two-case version, starting at 218,800 yuan. As for size, the SOUO S2000 measures 2,660mm in length, 950mm in width, and 1,540mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1,810mm. The standout feature of the SOUO S2000 is its powertrain, marking it as the world's first motorcycle equipped with a horizontally opposed 8-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This powerhouse setup delivers a maximum output of 113 kW, 190 Nm of peak torque, and a top speed of 210 km/h. In terms of technical features, the SOUO S2000 is equipped with a 12.3-inch touch-sensitive liquid-crystal instrument panel powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, supporting OTA updates. Additionally, the motorcycle features handlebar heating, front and rear seat heating, and Brembo four-piston brakes at both the front and rear. Its suspension system is electronically adjustable with multiple settings, and the front windshield can be raised or lowered with a single button. Jakarta, Dec 31 : Mount Ibu, located in Indonesia's North Maluku province, erupted earlier on Tuesday, prompting an aviation warning, the country's Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre reported. The biggest eruption occurred at 5:18 a.m. local time, sending a column of ash up to three km into the sky. The thick grey cloud drifted southeast and east of the volcano. Residents living near the slopes of the mountain are prohibited from engaging in any activities within a four-km radius of the crater, which extends to 5.5 km in the northern areas. The centre recommends that residents wear facemasks, sunglasses, and nose protectors when engaging in outdoor activities during volcanic ash fall. Mount Ibu, situated in West Halmahera Regency, is currently at the second-highest alert level. To mitigate the risks posed by volcanic ash to aviation, an orange level of the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued, restricting flights at altitudes within five km of the volcano. Planes should also be prepared for potential ash clouds, which can disrupt air travel. Standing at 1,325 metres high, Mount Ibu is one of Indonesia's 127 active volcanoes, Xinhua news agency reported. Earlier on November 14, Mount Ibu, located in Indonesia's North Maluku province, erupted, sending a column of ash up to 3 km high and prompting the second-highest aviation alert, according to the Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center. The eruption occurred at 02:22 p.m. local time, spewing grey ash to the west of the crater. Residents were prohibited from engaging in activities within a 5-km radius of the crater and were advised to wear face masks when conducting activities outside. An aviation notice had been issued at the orange level, the second-highest warning, prohibiting flights around Mount Ibu. In August 2009, the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia raised the eruption alert level for Ibu to Orange. In 2023, a total of 21,100 eruptions were recorded from the volcano, making it the second most active volcano in Indonesia. Ibu's activities followed a series of eruptions from different volcanoes in Indonesia, which sits on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' and has 127 active volcanoes. Guwahati, Dec 31 : The Assam government will open a mutual transfer portal for its grade 3 and 4 employees, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday. The portal 'Swagata Satirtha' is aimed to bring several changes in the transfer process of government employees in the state. This will replace the old manual system of the transfer process of employees. The mutual transfer portal will become active from January 1, 2025. Taking to social media platform X, CM Sarma wrote, "Tomorrow, January 1, 2025 will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Employee Welfare. Fulfilling the long-standing demands of our State Govt employees, we will dedicate Swagata Satirtha, the mutual transfer portal for Grade III & Grade IV employees." The CM recently said that the government has been working tirelessly for all-round development of the people belonging to different communities of the state. He stated, "The present government has been working very dedicatedly to bring about all-round development of the people of the state belonging to every section of the society." The Chief Minister also said that the state government's 12-day development campaign which ended on Monday, is an initiative to help the targeted people through government interventions. During this period, CM Sarma and his Council of Ministers visited different districts and participated in the development campaign. He said that in the last 12 days, 20 lakh new ration cards were distributed. A total of 48,673 students have been covered under the Bani Kanta Kakati Merit Scholarship. CM Sarma said since the inception of the Bani Kanta Kakati Merit Scholarship, the programme benefitted 1,09,000 students. He said that as per National Education Policy 2020, one high school should be located every five kilometres. Considering the provision, the State government is distributing bicycles to every student of class IX. Stating that a new horizon has been created in education, the Chief Minister said that the State government is spending Rs 2,000 crore annually for the benefit of students. He also said that if the students take education as their vocation, Assam will progress in leaps and bounds. Kolkata, Dec 31 : 2024 was an eventful year for West Bengal for several reasons, but the incident that rocked the state and the country was the ghastly rape and murder of a woman doctor of state-run R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata within the premises in August. The following sequence of events made the entire investigation process a mere farcical exercise. The scripted plot started on the morning of August 9 soon after the body of the victim was recovered from the seminar hall within the R.G. Kar premises. As per the victim's parents, on the same morning, they received subsequent calls from a woman claiming to be an Assistant Superintendent of the hospital making contradictory statements each time. "First she said that my daughter had become seriously ill. Next, she claimed that my daughter had committed suicide," claimed the victim's father to the media persons after the tragedy. An audio clip of the purported conversation also became viral in the social media then which authenticated the allegations of the victim's parents. IANS, however, could not verify the authenticity of the viral audio clip. Kolkata Police started the initial investigation and soon took the prime accused in the case and civic volunteer Sanjay Roy in custody. However, several lapses in the process of initial investigation by the city police started surfacing then. Some of them were lackadaisical in cordoning off the entire crime scene allowing several unwanted individuals crowding there and lapses in the post-mortem process that raised suspicions about the tampering with evidence in the matter. Following these developments, the civil society flared up in anguish which was followed by a series of protests by people throughout the state. The protests were led by representatives from the medical fraternity in the state. Slowly, the protest fever gripped other states in the country and subsequently similar protest demonstrations by non-resident Indians settled in different countries abroad also started surfacing. The ongoing protest demonstrations took a dramatic turn at midnight of August 14 when almost the entire state was on the streets condemning the macabre tragedy as well as demanding the safety of women at the workplace. A group of miscreants suddenly barged in within the R.G. Kar premises and ransacked portions of the emergency department of the hospital. Later information surfaced that their main target was the floor of the purported "scene of crime" that is the seminar hall where the body of the victim was recovered, clearly hinting that the attack was orchestrated to destroy the evidence. The development also diverted the media attention on that night from the protest or demonstration to the event of ransacking. This development flared up public protests which were aggravated further by the decision of the junior doctors to go on fast-unto-death protest demanding justice for the victims. In the meantime, there were two subsequent developments on the legal front. First, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took charge of the investigation from the city police following an order by a division bench of Calcutta High Court. Secondly, the Supreme Court headed by the then Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud took up the matter for hearing on a suo motu basis. The initial days of the CBI probe in the matter were highly exciting with information about tampering of evidence during the phase of initial investigation by the city police surfacing one after another. The excitement reached its peak when CBI arrested the former and controversial principal of R.G. Kar Sandip Ghosh and the former SHO of Tala Police Station Abhijit Mondal on charges of misleading the investigation and tampering with evidence. All these were going on while the protests were gaining momentum with a group of junior doctors participating in the hunger strike started falling sick one after another. Even the West Bengal government, at that point in time, seemed a bit helpless in the midst of all-around pressure and made desperate attempts to sit at the discussion table with the junior doctors to end the impasse. However, the series of heartbreaks started soon first with the first charge sheet of CBI identifying the civic volunteer Sanjay Roy as the "sole prime accused" in the crime of rape and murder. At the same time following a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the junior doctors withdrew from the hunger strike which to a large extent dampened the general protest mood involving civil society and common people. The final blow came on December 13, when a special court in Kolkata granted "default bail" to Ghosh and Mondal in the rape and murder as CBI failed to submit a supplementary charge sheet against the duo within 90 days from the date of their arrests. Following this development, there was an air of frustration and suspicion about the sincerity with which the central investigating agency also was conducting the probe. Suspicions surfaced further following a report from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) that contradicted several points that surfaced during the course of the investigation. The first contradiction was about the "scene of crime". While both Kolkata Police and CBI conducted the investigation considering the seminar hall from where the body of the victim was discovered as the scene of the crime, the CFSL report clearly stated there was no evidence of scuffle at the seminar room thus creating doubts on whether that place was actually the scene of crime or not. Secondly, the CFSL report, while not ruling out the possibility of murder and crime being conducted by one accused, advocated for further research based on different past scientific reports by experts in similar cases can lead to the final conclusion on whether more than one person was involved in the crime. At the same time, the CFSL report clearly stated that the confidentiality factor of the post-mortem process of the body of the victim was compromised and standard protocols were not followed during that process. "Upon perusal of the videography of the PM Examination, it has been observed that there was the presence of many persons inside the autopsy hall and a few of them were taking photographs and videos on their personal mobiles which is against the standard and accepted protocol and practice for maintaining the confidentiality of the case and the dignity of the deceased," the seventh point mention in the CSFL report read, a copy of which is available with IANS.- Kolkata, Dec 31 : Elaborate security arrangements have been made in Kolkata on the eve of New Year's Day as thousands of people are likely to hit the streets to enjoy the night with family members and friends. Kolkata, Dec 31 (IANS) Elaborate security arrangements have been made in Kolkata on the eve of New Year's Day as thousands of people are likely to hit the streets to enjoy the night with family members and friends. A total of 4,500 police personnel will be on the streets starting from Tuesday afternoon till early Wednesday morning to ensure that the festive mood is not dampened. Of the 4,500 cops, 2,500 will be in the Park Street area considering that this is the most happening area in the city on occasions like Christmas and New Year's Eve. The entire security arrangements will be under the supervision of a senior official in the rank of Additional Commissioner of Police, who will be assisted by two Joint Commissioners, 12 Deputy Commissioners, 23 Assistant Commissioners and 70 Inspectors. Almost the entire area in and around Park Street has been declared a "no-parking zone". There will be a total of 11 watch towers in the area in addition to 15 police assistance booths. A special team of women officers titled "Winners Team" will be carrying out patrolling throughout the city and the night. In addition to that, there will be a number of quick response teams, heavy radio flying squads, plain dress sleuths and combat forces. Besides the police, the state disaster management department has kept its teams ready for any emergency. Trauma-care ambulances at different points of the city, and deployment of life-saving disaster management teams at the river-points in and around the city are part of the arrangements. The personnel of the River Traffic Police Department of the city will conduct constant patrolling on the water through speedboats. "Generally, security arrangements are made elaborate on this day every year with a focus on the Park Street area. However, this year considering several other factors, the security arrangements in the city have been made more elaborate. All units have been kept on high alerts," said a senior official of the city police. Islamabad, Dec 31 : Pakistan has blocked passports of over 10,000 of its citizens, who have been deported from Iran after getting caught while trying to use the route to enter Europe illegally. The move comes as part of the government's action against illegal human traffickers in the country, initiated after over 40 Pakistanis died recently when a boat carrying illegal immigrants capsized in Greek territorial waters. According to sources in Pakistanas Interior Ministry, passports of 10,454 individuals have been blocked after they were arrested by the Iranian authorities for illegally crossing into their territory. "These individuals tried to enter Iran from Pakistanas Balochistan and its porous borders. Their final destination was Europe. They were being trafficked by local handlers in Pakistan, Iran and had more contacts waiting ahead to help them reach Europe illegally," a ministry official told IANS. "After their arrest, these individuals were handed over to Pakistani officials at the Taftan border in Balochistan's Chagai district," he added. The arrests highlights the alarming number of people desirous of using illegal means to leave Pakistan and reach Europe via Iran. The Ministry of Interior maintained that it is in process of blocking passports of thousands of more individuals arrested and deported from other countries. Already, as per sources, at least 2,470 passports of individuals involved in drug-related crimes in the UAE have been blocked while 1,500 passports of individuals deported from Iraq and over 4,000 passports of people detained in Saudi Arabia have also been blocked. Majority of these individuals belong to Pakistanas Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. "Majority of the people caught taking such a dangerous, unpredictable and unconventional route are youngsters, including several minors," said Syed Liaqat Banori, Chairman, Society of Human Rights and Prisoners' Aid (SHARP) Pakistan. "Shockingly, families of these individuals support their actions even while knowing that they are risking their lives in the process. The human trafficking network is also massive and spread across different countries," he stated. The issue of human trafficking is not new to Pakistan. During 2023, at least 8,272 Pakistanis were arrested in Iran for illegally entering from the Balochistan borders. Details reveal that illegal transfer of Pakistanis is done through at least five districts, all of them along Balochistan's border with Iran - including Kech, Gwadar, Chagai, Washuk and Panjgur. "Between 2020 and 2024, over 62,000 Pakistani citizens, primarily from Punjab province, were arrested for illegally entering into Iran from Pakistan," reveals Banori. The issue of human trafficking has become a major embarrassment for Pakistan as thousands of these illegal immigrants have been deported from countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran and several other places for indulging in criminal activities, including drug peddling, begging, etc. Brisbane, Dec 31 : Novak Djokovic marked his return to singles action with a dominant win at the Brisbane International, dispatching Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata 6-3, 6-3 at Pat Rafter Arena. Playing his first ATP singles match since October, the Serbian showcased his trademark precision and resilience kicking off his 2025 singles season in impressive fashion. A day after partnering with Nick Kyrgios for a doubles win, Djokovic delivered a clinical performance in his singles opener. Over the course of 75 minutes, he overwhelmed Hijikata with his impeccable baseline play and unerring serve, winning 81% of points behind his first serve. The 37-year-old did not face a single break point, underscoring his dominance. "I always expect myself to do well on the court. Obviously, a win is a win," Djokovic said during his on-court interview. "To start off the new season with a win is very important. I think Hijikata deserves a great round of applause for his performance tonight, he was really good. He made me work, definitely, for the win tonight." Hijikata, playing in front of a supportive home crowd, showed flashes of promise but struggled to penetrate Djokovic's near-flawless defense. The Serbian broke the Australian's serve twice in each set, staying comfortably in control throughout. The victory allowed Djokovic to wrap up his evening early, leaving time for New Year's Eve celebrations with his family. Speaking after the match, Djokovic shared his plans: "We will definitely celebrate the New Year, we have some plans. My family is here. My kids are excited to go past their bedtime. We are going to watch, I guess, one of many fireworks displays tonight here in Brisbane." Addressing the Brisbane crowd, Djokovic added a heartfelt message: "Happy New Year in advance to everyone. It's a special evening. Last year I played a match at the United Cup in Perth just before midnight, and again here in Brisbane, so it's kind of a tradition now happening each year. Thanks for choosing to come and spend New Year's Eve on the court here with us; we appreciate it." Djokovic's next challenge in Brisbane is a familiar foe - Gael Monfils, against whom he holds a commanding 19-0 head-to-head record. A win against the Frenchman would not only advance Djokovic further in the tournament but also edge him closer to a historic milestone. The Serbian is aiming to become just the third player in history to win 100 ATP tour-level titles, joining the elite company of Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103). New Delhi, Dec 31 : Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav on Tuesday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the registration drive for the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' accusing the party's National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal of "misleading" the people of Delhi with hollow promises. Speaking to IANS, Yadav said, "Kejriwal is known for making announcements without accountability. He doesn't have any answers for his previous unfulfilled promises." "When he goes to any Assembly constituency and is questioned about the progress of his previous promises -- be it on electricity bills, contaminated water, or damaged roads -- he evades answers. These announcements are purely to mislead the public," he said. Amid growing criticism, the AAP initiated the registration process for the scheme, which promises temple priests and Gurdwara granthis an honorarium of Rs 18,000 per month. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi launched the initiative from a Gurdwara in Karol Bagh, while Kejriwal began registrations at the Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place. Speaking on the scheme, Kejriwal remarked, "This is the first initiative of its kind in the country, providing monthly financial support to priests and granthis." However, the announcement has drawn criticism from both BJP and Congress leaders, who have termed it a "poll gimmick." Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera labelled the scheme as yet another "brazen attempt" by the AAP to deceive Delhi's residents. "No matter what the AAP does, the people of Delhi are resolved to bring a Congress-led government," Khera told IANS. BJP MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar also hit out at the AAP, accusing the party of hypocrisy. "The AAP has become the 'new Congress,' resorting to similar tactics of wooing Hindu voters during elections," Chandrasekhar told IANS. He compared Kejriwal's actions to Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, who often visit temples during polls. Chandrasekhar further slammed the AAP for allegedly abandoning its anti-corruption roots, saying, "AAP, born out of a crusade against corruption, now promotes the same graft it once opposed. It has truly become the new Congress." Both BJP and Congress have accused the AAP of using the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana' as a last-minute effort to gain votes ahead of the Assembly elections, calling it a "desperate poll stunt." New Delhi, Dec 31 : Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav on Tuesday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the registration drive for the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' accusing the party's National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal of "misleading" the people of Delhi with hollow promises. Speaking to IANS, Yadav said, "Kejriwal is known for making announcements without accountability. He doesn't have any answers for his previous unfulfilled promises." "When he goes to any Assembly constituency and is questioned about the progress of his previous promises -- be it on electricity bills, contaminated water, or damaged roads -- he evades answers. These announcements are purely to mislead the public," he said. Amid growing criticism, the AAP initiated the registration process for the scheme, which promises temple priests and Gurdwara granthis an honorarium of Rs 18,000 per month. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi launched the initiative from a Gurdwara in Karol Bagh, while Kejriwal launched the scheme from Marghatwale Baba Mandir near Kashmere Gate ISBT. Speaking on the scheme, Kejriwal remarked, "This is the first initiative of its kind in the country, providing monthly financial support to priests and granthis." However, the announcement has drawn criticism from both BJP and Congress leaders, who have termed it a "poll gimmick." Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera labelled the scheme as yet another "brazen attempt" by the AAP to deceive Delhi's residents. "No matter what the AAP does, the people of Delhi are resolved to bring a Congress-led government," Khera told IANS. BJP MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar also hit out at the AAP, accusing the party of hypocrisy. "The AAP has become the 'new Congress,' resorting to similar tactics of wooing Hindu voters during elections," Chandrasekhar told IANS. He compared Kejriwal's actions to Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, who often visit temples during polls. Chandrasekhar further slammed the AAP for allegedly abandoning its anti-corruption roots, saying, "AAP, born out of a crusade against corruption, now promotes the same graft it once opposed. It has truly become the new Congress." Both BJP and Congress have accused the AAP of using the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana' as a last-minute effort to gain votes ahead of the Assembly elections, calling it a "desperate poll stunt." Auckland, Dec 31 : Auckland in New Zealand was among the first major cities in the world to usher in New Year 2025 on Tuesday as thousands enjoyed a dazzling fireworks display at the iconic Sky Tower. The annual fireworks illuminated the night sky as huge crowds gathered at the city's Central Business District (CBD) took part in the celebrations. Millions around the globe are expected to take part in celebrations around the world in the coming hours. Following Auckland, people in Australia would revel in the festive atmosphere with Sydney set to welcome the new year with the much-awaited fireworks displays at its landmark Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Celebrations will continue thereafter -- from beach festivities in Indonesia's Bali to Singapore's Marina Bay, the vibrant atmosphere in New Delhi, New Year's eve display at Dubai's Burj Khalifa, London's fireworks along the river Thames and the iconic ball drop at New York's Times Square. Even though they are not too far away from New Zealand, the South Pacific islands of Niue and Samoa to the southwest of Kiribati are the last inhabited places to celebrate the new year. Niue, known as one of the largest upraised coral atolls in the world situated in the middle of the South Pacific within a triangle boundary of Tonga, Samoan and Cook Islands, is located towards the north eastern side of the International Date Line and is 11 hours behind the Greenwich Mean Time. Celebrations are also set to take place in Japan, where people traditionally ring in the new year by watching the first sunrise of the year. Mumbai, Dec 31 : Hours after NCP Minister Dhananjay Munde's close aide Walmik Karad, wanted in an extortion case linked to the brutal killing of a sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh in Beed district, surrendered before police in Pune, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday warned that the government will not spare anyone guilty in this case. "I have been saying since the first day that strict action will be taken against every accused in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case. No one has the right to commit such violence. The police will take necessary action until all the culprits are hanged," he told the reporters. "We will not allow the rule of goons to continue. No one can commit such violence, no one can demand ransom. Accordingly, we have accelerated the investigation and that is why Walmik Karad had to surrender. Now different teams have started working to nab the absconding accused in the murder. We will not spare any accused. All of them will be found," said the chief minister. Fadnavis also said that he spoke to Dhananjay Deshmukh, brother of the late Santosh Deshmukh, on the phone on Tuesday. "I have also assured him that the police will take all necessary action until the accused is hanged," he added. The CM said there is no pressure on the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) which is conducting an investigation into the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. "The police will give information about what kind of case will be registered against the accused and how they will proceed. I tell you that no one will be spared on the basis of whatever evidence there is. This case has been deliberately given to the CID and they have been given complete autonomy. There will be no pressure from anyone on them, nor will any pressure be applied," he added. On the demand by the opposition and various organisations for the resignation of NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, the chief minister said, "I do not want to get into politics in this matter. I have already said that action will be taken according to the evidence that comes to light. For me, it is important that the people responsible for the murder of the late Santosh Deshmukh are punished. Some people only care about politics. I do not want to get into any politics. They should continue doing their politics." Meanwhile, after Walmik Karad surrendered before CID, former MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati demanded that action be taken against him under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), saying that he would not sit quiet till Karad is charged with MCOCA. He also demanded that Dhananjay Munde should resign and he should not be given the guardian ministership of Beed. "Give it to anyone, but if justice is to be given to Deshmukh's family in this case, then Munde should not be given the guardian ministership," he commented. Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinese X-by-wire chassis technology company Trugo Tech recently announced the completion of its Series B financing round, which raised for the company 400 million yuan. Photo credit: Trugo Tech Key investors of this round include FAW Equity Investment, Blue Lake Capital, Fortune Capital, and several other prominent funds and industry players. Trugo Tech is positioned as a frontrunner in the chassis-by-wire sector. With over 600 million intelligent chassis brake products delivered so far, Trugo Tech has also reached a milestone with cumulative domestic ESC (Electronic Stability Control) shipments exceeding one million sets. Moreover, the company's flagship product, the EHBI-Onebox electronic hydraulic brake system, is now in mass production, securing partnerships with nearly 10 major automakers for strategic projects. In chip technology, Trugo Tech has initiated collaborations with leading automakers on domestic chip strategies, aiming to localize advanced components. The company has also co-founded an "Intelligent Chassis-by-Wire Joint Laboratory" with SAIC-GM-Wuling, Wuhan University of Technology, and Baolong Automotive to accelerate breakthroughs in intelligent chassis technology. Hyderabad, Dec 31 : Barring three, all flyovers in Greater Hyderabad will remain shut on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 as police have imposed curbs on vehicular traffic in view of New Year celebrations. Police Commissioners of Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Rachakonda have issued orders imposing restrictions to prevent accidents or any untoward incident during the celebrations. Hyderabad Police said the main focus will be on the markets, near malls, and locations where people gather for celebrations, such as Tank Bund, NTR Marg, PVNR Marg (Necklace Road) and shopping, commercial, restaurant and pub/bar areas of Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, Punjagutta, Khairathabad, Saifabad, etc. The restrictions will be imposed on a need and situation basis from 11 p.m. onwards on Tank Bund and its surrounding roads/areas and remain in effect until the end of the New Year Celebrations. This will apply to all private and public transport vehicles. Traffic will not be allowed on NTR Marg, PVNR Marg (Necklace Road) and Tank Bund from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Need-based traffic restrictions will be in place for the vehicular traffic around Hussain Sagar Lake. All flyovers of the city except Begumpet and Tolichowki will be closed for traffic on a need basis on the intervening night of December 31-January 1. However, the PVNR Expressway Flyover will be operational only for commuters bound for the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), who have valid air Tickets. Private buses, lorries, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), and heavy passenger vehicles (HPVs) will not be permitted to enter the limits of Hyderabad City between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. The Outer Ring Road (ORR) will also be closed for light motor vehicles and passenger vehicles, except for vehicles bound towards RGIA, from 10 p.m. on December 31 to 5 a.m. on January 1. Passengers travelling towards RGIA will be allowed to produce air tickets The management of star hotels, clubs, bars, and pubs and event organisers are also directed to provide special parking arrangements and security to regulate traffic and ensure smooth access. While liquor service must be limited to fixed hours at the pubs and bars, they are required to provide safe transportation to intoxicated patrons. Traffic Police will be conducting extensive checks to curb traffic violations, including drunken driving, rash and dangerous driving, overspeeding, wrong-side driving, helmet-less and triple riding on two-wheelers, etc. Stringent legal action will be taken against violations/offences such as drunk driving, overspeeding, stunt biking, racing, reckless driving, zig-zag driving, and other dangerous driving behaviors, said Hyderabad Police Commissioner C. V. Anand said. Police have warned that it would deal firmly with revellers indulging in drunken driving and consumption of drugs. A special drive will be conducted from 8 p.m. on December 31 to 7 a.m. on January 1, 2025 to check drunken driving. Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol will have to pay a fine of Rs 10,000 and undergo six months imprisonment. Telangana State Narcotics Bureau (TSNAB) will also conduct drug tests on suspects. TSNAB personnel will collect the urine samples from suspects and conduct tests, whose results will be known in five minutes. Organisers of New Year parties, hotels, restaurants, farmhouses, resorts, pubs and bars have been warned of stringent action if they allow the use of drugs in their premises. The Telangana Four-Wheeler Drivers Association (TGFWDA) and Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) have announced that they would offer free transportation for tipplers between 10 p.m. on December 31 and 1 a.m. on January 1, 2025. They said since drunken driving poses a grave threat to public safety, they are offering the service to eliminate the risks associated with drunken driving after the New Yearas celebrations. The two unions said they would make 500 four-wheeler cabs and 250 bikes available. Anyone who wants a ride can call 9177624678. New Delhi, Dec 31 : As AAP supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana', several priests in the national Capital criticised the move and said it was like a 'lollypop' to influence them for getting votes in the Assembly elections. The AAP's National Convenor Kejriwal on Tuesday announced that Hindu temple priests and granthis of Gurdwaras in Delhi would receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 if the party wins the upcoming Assembly elections. The scheme, launched at the Marghatwale Baba temple near Kashmiri Gate ISBT, was introduced just ahead of the February polls, sparking mixed reactions from Delhi's priests. In a post on social media platform X, Kejriwal shared his visit to the Marghatwale Baba's temple, marking the occasion with celebrations for the birthday of the Mahant there. "Today I launched the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana'. It is an important step towards supporting the religious leaders of our city," Kejriwal wrote. He further stated that despite efforts by the BJP to prevent the registration process for the scheme, "no one can stop a devotee from meeting God." However, several priests voiced their disapproval over the timing of the announcement, suggesting that the move was more about securing votes than genuinely addressing their needs. One priest, speaking to IANS, said, "It's good that he's thinking about the priests now, but what was he doing for the last 10 years? This is just an attempt to influence voters. I don't believe he will actually deliver on this promise. He gave money to maulvis before but never thought about pujaris and granthis. The situation in Delhi hasn't improved, and they have ignored us for years." Another priest expressed frustration, calling it a 'lollypop' aimed at fooling the religious community. "Earlier, they didn't provide pensions to the elderly. Kejriwal made several promises but didn't follow through. Now, he's making these announcements just for votes. We are not fools, and I'm sure he doesn't even remember how many temples exist in Delhi," he professed. A third priest added, "If Kejriwal had announced this a year before the Assembly elections, we might have believed he was genuinely thinking about us. But now it feels like an attempt to manipulate us. He has failed to fulfill previous promises, and this scheme seems like a ploy to win votes. PM Modi's government has already made tangible contributions to temples, while Kejriwal's promises remain unfulfilled." Another priest criticised the announcement, calling it a 'jumla' aimed at influencing pujaris and granthis for votes. He recalled Kejriwal's previous promises, such as his vow not to take a government car or house, none of which materialised. He said, "Kejriwal didn't help us during the COVID-19 crisis, and now he promises Rs 18,000 to priests. We should support those who truly believe in 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.'" The Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana is part of the AAP's strategy to appeal to religious leaders ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, set to take place in February 2024. Imphal, Dec 31 : Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Tuesday expressed "sorry and regret" for the unfortunate developments in the state due to the ethnic violence that started in May last year. Addressing the media, the Chief Minister, however, said the year ends on an optimistic note and that he hoped that peace and normalcy would return to the state in the New Year 2025. He said: "I apologise to all the victims and their kin." "It is very unfortunate that many people have lost their loved ones, many people had to leave their homes and villages. However, considering the positive developments during the past three-four months, I hope peace and normalcy will return to the state in the New Year 2025," Singh said. Manipur has 34 to 35 different communities, he said adding "We would live together after forgiving what already happened. "I appeal to all the communities to live together and to make Manipur prosperous with a united effort," the Chief Minister said. "On the eve of a New Year, I reflect on the progress we have made together in 2024 and the challenges we have to overcome. As we step into 2025, I reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive state." Giving details of incidents of violence over the past 20 months, the Chief Minister said that so far around 200 people have been killed, around 12,247 FIRs were registered and 625 accused persons were arrested. He said that around 5,600 arms and a huge cache of explosives and around 35,000 ammunition were recovered so far by the security forces from different districts. "Good progress was achieved by the security forces in dealing with the violence. The central government has provided adequate security personnel and enough funds to help the displaced people and to construct new houses for the displaced families," the Chief Minister said. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh recently said that bringing a solution to the ongoing ethnic strife in the state would take time as the situation has become complex, chronic and fragile. The Chief Minister had said that gradually, the situation in Manipur is improving with most of the districts remaining incident-free for the past several months. "The state and Central security forces along with the civil administration are doing their best to maintain the violence-free situation and to deliver services to the people," Biren Singh had told the media. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Digitalisation initiatives could provide long-term benefits to the oil and gas industry globally, a report showed on Tuesday. Certain technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR), are now part of the oil and gas industry The GlobalData's report, titled 'Digitalisation in Oil and Gas,' highlights the role of major oil and gas companies, such as ADNOC, BP, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies, in the development and adoption of digital tools to solve business problems. "Field personnel are extensively using handheld devices to gather data, make notes, and communicate with their team. These changes are aimed at cutting down inefficiencies in workflows for improved productivity and lower costs," said Ravindra Puranik, oil and gas analyst at GlobalData. Operational risks are also reduced due to a lesser need for human intervention in hazardous environments, which is a very important benefit of digitalisation. The adoption of digital technologies is also expected to deliver intangible value in the form of emission reductions. A recent poll from GlobalData indicated that companies were deploying digitalization to lower their operational emissions. With worries over climate change increasing every year, managing emissions has become critical for the industry. Drones are being used to monitor methane emissions in the industry, and AI can be used to determine effective strategies to mitigate methane emissions from daily oil and gas operations. "These efforts are in line with the ESG objectives set by international agreements such as the Paris Accord," said Puranik. As digital technologies are not a core area of expertise for oil and gas companies, the challenge of having a workforce with essential skills remains a key concern. Some of these challenges can be overcome through collaboration with technology experts and regular training on cybersecurity awareness (among other measures). "Industry participants are already doing this with oil majors, such as ExxonMobil and Chevron signing long-term partnerships with Microsoft. These would help companies navigate through the technology pitfalls and make further progress in digitalizing their entire operations," the report mentioned. Colombo, Dec 31 : Several Sri Lankan government institutions have faced cyber attacks, a police spokesman told local media on Tuesday. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) K.B. Manathunga said the official YouTube channel of the Sri Lanka Police Department has been hacked. Manathunga added the official website of the Sri Lanka Department of Government Printing has also been hacked and its data has been altered. Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) and the police are currently investigating the cyber attacks, he said, Xinhua news agency reported. SLCERT last week warned that government websites were vulnerable to attacks and said it was planning to carry out a series of programs to educate government servants on dealing with cyber attacks. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved a proposal by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to establish investigative units in every ministry to ensure accountability within public institutions, a government spokesperson announced on Tuesday. Speaking to journalists in Colombo, Cabinet spokesperson and Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa said the government has received numerous complaints regarding irregularities in state institutions. To address these concerns and enhance public service, the Cabinet decided to conduct impartial and methodical investigations into such complaints, Jayatissa explained. The approved proposal calls for the establishment of investigative units at the ministerial level, each headed by a senior executive-grade government official with extensive service experience and prior involvement in investigations, he added. According to Jayatissa, these officials will examine the operations of state institutions under previous administrations and address ongoing public complaints. Hyderabad, Dec 31 : The Telangana High Court on Tuesday reserved its order on the quash petition of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and former minister K.T. Rama Rao in the Formula-E race case and directed the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) not to arrest him till the orders were pronounced. The High Court also extended the operation of its interim order barring the ACB from arresting K.T. Rama Rao till the pronouncement of final orders. Justice Lakshman reserved the order after hearing the arguments from K.T. Rama Raoas counsel Siddhartha Dave and Advocate General A. Sudarshan Reddy. The ACB on December 29 booked a case against K.T. Rama Rao, senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) former chief engineer B.L.N. Reddy for alleged irregularities in organising the Formula E-car race last year. K.T. Rama Rao filed the petition, seeking orders to quash the First Information Report (FIR) registered by the ACB. Arguing on behalf of the ACB, the Advocate General told the court that Rs. 46 crore in British Pounds were paid to Formula-E Operations Limited (FEO) in violation of rules even before signing of an agreement for season 10 of the Formula-E car race. When the court enquired about the status of the investigation, the AG informed that it is in the preliminary stage. The court was also told that the ACB has recorded the statement of M. Dana Kishore, Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, who is the complainant in the case. The High Court was also informed that the FIR was registered after the Governor granted permission for the same. The government counsel submitted to the court that HMDA required permission from the Finance Department for payment of more than Rs 10 crore, but in this case, it made a total payment of Rs 54 crore without any approval. The court was told that Secretariat Business Rules were not followed in the matter and that as the then minister K.T. Rama Rao signed the note file. His counsel Siddhartha Dave argued that the sections invoked by the ACB in the FIR were not valid. He submitted to the Bench that it was not proper to name K.T. Rama Rao as an accused in the case. He also mentioned that the Secretary, Municipal Administration signed the agreement for the Formula-E race. The BRS leaderas counsel contended that the ACB has not provided any evidence of corruption. He told the court that KTR was not the beneficiary. The ACB registered the FIR registered under Sections 13(1)(A) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, along with Sections 409 and 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code. Thiruvananthapuram/New Delhi, Dec 31 : The mother of Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse sentenced to death in Yemen for the murder of a Yemeni national, has made an impassioned appeal for assistance to save her daughter's life. Nimisha's mother, Prema Kumari, 57, has been tirelessly campaigning to secure a waiver of the death penalty. Earlier this year, she traveled to Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, to negotiate the payment of diya (blood money) to the victim's family. Her efforts have been supported by the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, a group of NRI social workers based in Yemen. On Tuesday, Prema Kumari, appearing on Malayalam television from Yemen, tearfully urged for urgent intervention. "I am deeply grateful to the Indian and Kerala governments, as well as the committee formed to save her, for all the support provided so far. But this is my final plea -- please help us save her life. Time is running out," she said, folding her hands as tears streamed down her face. Earlier in the day, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal issued a statement acknowledging the case. "We are aware of the sentencing of Nimisha Priya in Yemen. The family is exploring relevant options, and the government is extending all possible help in the matter," he said. The urgency of the situation escalated after Yemen's President Rashad al-Alimi approved Nimisha Priya's death sentence earlier this month. Reports suggest the execution could occur within a month, leaving her family and supporters scrambling for a resolution. Nimisha Priya, originally from Kollengode in Kerala's Palakkad district, moved to Yemen in 2008 to support her daily wage-earning parents. After working in various hospitals, she opened her own clinic. However, in 2017, a dispute with her Yemeni business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi, reportedly took a tragic turn. Family accounts claim Nimisha injected Mahdi with sedatives to retrieve her confiscated passport. Unfortunately, an overdose led to his death. Nimisha was arrested while attempting to leave the country and was convicted of murder in 2018. In 2020, a trial court in Sanaa sentenced her to death. The verdict was upheld by Yemen's Supreme Judicial Council in November 2023, but it left open the possibility of avoiding execution through the payment of blood money. The case has drawn widespread attention and raised concerns over the fate of Indian nationals abroad as the family and supporters continue their efforts to save Nimisha Priya from the death penalty. New Delhi, Dec 31 : In 10 years of the Modi government, India has witnessed a remarkable cultural revival, rekindling pride in its rich heritage. From restoring ancient temples in Jammu and Kashmir to revamping spiritual corridors like the grand Kashi Vishwanath Dham and rebuilding temples across the country, these efforts have reconnected us with our roots. Forgotten saints like Meera Bai and tribal heroes like Bhagwan Birsa Munda have been honoured, while traditions such as the Mahakumbh have been promoted globally, showcasing India's spiritual grandeur. Record-breaking celebrations like Diwali in Ayodhya and the placement of the sacred Sengol in Parliament reflect a deep respect for our civilisational values. This year continues the decade-long journey of efforts to ensure that India's legacy inspires future generations to cherish and uphold its timeless spirit. This year began with the historic consecration of Shri Ram Lala in Ayodhya, fulfilling a centuries-old dream cherished by millions and the inauguration of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, which symbolises India's spiritual legacy crossing borders. Shri Ram returns to his birthplace PM Modi's leadership in 2024 spearheaded a remarkable rejuvenation of India's civilisational heritage and cultural pride. The consecration of Ram Lala at Ayodhya Ram Mandir marked a significant spiritual and cultural moment, fulfilling a centuries-old aspiration of Hindus all over the world. This event underscored Ayodhya's enduring significance in India's civilisational narrative. The inauguration of BAPS Mandir by PM Modi, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, was a landmark moment in India's cultural diplomacy. This is the first Hindu temple in the Middle East, designed as per ancient Hindu architectural principles known as 'Shilpa Shastras'. It not only celebrated the Indian diaspora's contributions but also symbolised global interfaith harmony. Domestically, the foundation stone for the Maa Kamakhya Divya Pariyojana, an ambitious corridor project, was laid to enhance accessibility to the revered Maa Kamakhya Temple in Assam, while preserving its sacred heritage. These initiatives are a testament to PM Modi's unwavering commitment to reviving India's heritage and instilling pride in its glorious past. Reinvigoration of Cultural Heritage In 2024, under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, India made remarkable strides in preserving and celebrating its civilisational heritage. Modi government's efforts led to the recognition of Moidams in Assam as India's 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the global significance of India's cultural legacy. The inauguration of "Anubhav Kendra" in Kurukshetra brought ancient scriptures like the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita to life, reflecting the government's commitment to making India's heritage accessible and experiential. Further, the redevelopment of the historic Kochrab Ashram in Gujarat reaffirmed the government's dedication to preserving Gandhian values, while the foundation stone for Shri Kalki Dham in Sambhal demonstrated its focus on fostering spiritual and cultural hubs. These efforts reflect the Modi government's focus on preserving India's ancient wisdom while charting a progressive course for the future. In FY24, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) crossed Rs 1.5 lakh crore in turnover and created 10 lakh jobs, embodying Atmanirbhar Bharat. This growth highlights Khadi's global rise as an eco-fashion statement, powered by Vocal for Local, blending tradition with sustainability and modern innovation. Celebrating Linguistic and Spiritual Heritage 2024 also saw India celebrating its linguistic diversity with the granting of Classical Language status to Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali, and Prakrit. This recognition not only honours the nation's rich linguistic heritage but also strengthens cultural preservation across generations. Additionally, the reopening of all four gates of the Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri on June 13, 2024, marked the fulfilment of a long-standing demand from devotees and restored access to this revered spiritual site. The renaming of Port Blair to 'Sri Vijaya Puram' on September 13, 2024, further emphasised India's dedication to honouring its history, particularly the region's significance in the freedom struggle. India is also gearing up for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, set to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. This event is anticipated to be one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, drawing an estimated 45 crore (450 million) devotees and visitors. Cultural diplomacy and Global recognition The year 2024 saw India make significant strides in cultural diplomacy, cementing its position on the global stage. India and the USA signed their first-ever 'Cultural Property Agreement,' aimed at protecting India's invaluable cultural treasures from illicit trafficking. On November 15, 2024, the US returned more than 1,400 looted artefacts valued at approximately $10 million to India. In September 2024, during a ceremonial event involving Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden, 297 antiquities were returned to India. In another historic move, 100 women artists led the Republic Day Parade for the first time, underscoring the government's commitment to women's empowerment and gender equality. These efforts exemplify India's growing cultural influence, with PM Modi's vision driving the nation towards greater global recognition while honouring its rich traditions. Infrastructure and Economic Growth Linked to Cultural Projects In 2024, under PM Modi's leadership, India embarked on transformative initiatives that seamlessly connected cultural projects with infrastructure and economic growth. The announcement of the corridor development for the Vishnupad Temple in Bihar and the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is set to elevate spiritual tourism and provide a much-needed economic boost to these regions. By improving accessibility to two of India's most sacred sites, these projects will bridge the gap between India's spiritual heritage and modern infrastructure. The foundation stone for the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat, was also laid -- a significant move to preserve India's ancient maritime history. Lothal will be developed as the world's oldest dockyards and a historic site of the Indus Valley Civilization showcasing our rich maritime history that spans over 4,500 years. The implementation of this project is expected to create around 22,000 jobs, 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect, boosting local economies and fostering sustainable development for communities. Cultural Celebrations and Initiatives PM Modi inaugurated the 1st Bodoland Mohotsav in Delhi, a celebration of the unique culture, traditions, and history of the Bodoland region. He also inaugurated Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav which showcased North East's rich cultural heritage. These cultural celebrations reinforce PM Modi's vision to preserve and promote India's diverse cultural identity while uniting people from all walks of life. Taipei, Dec 31 : The average annual temperature in Taiwan reached a record high of 24.97 degrees Celsius in 2024, making it the warmest year on record, the local meteorological department said Tuesday. This figure is 1.66 degrees above the century-long average. All months except December recorded above-normal temperatures, the meteorological department told a press conference. Cumulative rainfall for the year was near normal levels, although it varied widely across the island, according to the meteorological department. The department forecast a high probability that average temperatures in Taiwan from January to March 2025 will be close to normal, with rainfall expected to be normal to below average, Xinhua news agency reported. Earlier this year, local environmentalists had expressed concern about a large-scale coral bleaching in the southern and eastern waters off the coast of Taiwan, which has been occurring due to a prolonged heat wave. Elaine Chen, Secretary-General of Taiwan Eco-Angel Environmental Conservation Association, told local media in July 2024 that divers have detected coral bleaching in waters off the coast of Kenting in southern Taiwan as well as around Little Liuqiu, Orchid, and Green islands. Taiwan Loo-Koo Yu Association, another environmental nongovernmental organisation, also reported instances of coral bleaching in June and July. When the seawater temperature exceeds 28 degrees Celsius for two weeks, symbiotic algae within coral polyps emit toxins that are harmful to coral polyps, causing them to expel from the coral and revealing transparent coral polyps with white coral skeletons. The phenomenon is commonly known as coral bleaching. According to Lee Kun-hsien, a volunteer with the Taiwan Loo-Koo Yu Association, the seawater temperature around Little Liuqiu Island typically ranges from 28 to 29 degrees Celsius during the summer, but it has consistently been between 30 to 32 degrees Celsius this summer. He had warned that if high temperatures persists after bleaching, corals are likely to die. The previous large-scale coral bleaching around Taiwan occurred in 2020. Bleaching will result in short-term harm to coral reefs but with time and a favorable environment, most healthy and stable coral reefs will gradually recover. Noting that bleached coral reefs are extremely vulnerable, environmentalists have called for reduced human activities near the reefs and greater measures to prevent and control seawater pollution. According to Lu Shiau-yun, chief of the island's ocean affairs department, a draft of a coral conservation action plan is being developed and is expected to be released soon. She had said that the department is collaborating with academic institutions to continue monitoring this issue. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Since 2014, India has been leveraging technology in various innovative ways to expedite infrastructure projects, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing delays. A recent Oxford study highlighted that Indiaas PRAGATI platform has accelerated 340 stranded infrastructure projects worth $205 billion, cutting project delays from decades to mere months through monthly video conferences chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the use of digital dashboards for tracking progress. With initiatives such as SWAMITVA, India is also digitising land records. Till now, 2.2 crore property rights have been conferred across 1.5 lakh villages. In 2024, India made significant strides in transforming its transport infrastructure, embracing futuristic technologies. A major milestone was the completion of Indiaas first Hyperloop test track at IIT Madras, advancing the nationas vision for high-speed rail travel. Hyperloop trains are designed for speeds up to 1,100 kmph, with an operational speed of around 360 kmph. The trains will move in a frictionless, vacuum-sealed environment, enabling faster travel and energy efficiency. India also took a major step in modernising road infrastructure by completing pilot studies for the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which will enable a distance-based electronic tolling system. A major initiative is also being undertaken in Quantum, AI and Blockchain Technologies. The National Quantum Mission is propelling India toward global leadership in quantum technology, while BharatGen showcases the nation's commitment to developing AI tailored for India. In 2024, India made significant strides in reinforcing its position in secure digital technologies and AI innovation. A huge boost to Blockchain technology was also witnessed with the launch of 'Vishvasya: National Blockchain Technology Stack,' aimed at providing Blockchain-as-a-Service for secure applications, along with the initiation of the National Blockchain Framework to build trusted digital platforms. BharatGen, the world's first government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model project, was initiated with a focus on creating efficient and inclusive AI in Indian languages. In a first for the country, India also established an end-to-end quantum communication link using both fibre and free-space technologies. Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) demonstrated the capability. UN chief pays tribute to former U.S. President Carter's legacy Xinhua) 13:01, December 31, 2024 UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep sadness at the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, and paid tribute to his legacy as "a peacemaker, human rights champion and humanitarian." In a statement issued late Sunday, Guterres said that he was "deeply saddened" and extended his condolences to the Carter family and the government and people of the United States. Guterres highlighted Carter's contributions to international peace and security while in office, including the Camp David Accords, the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty II (SALT II) and the Panama Canal Treaties. After leaving the presidency, Carter played a key role in conflict mediation, election monitoring, the promotion of democracy, and disease prevention and eradication, the UN chief said. "These and other efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and helped advance the work of the United Nations." "President Carter will be remembered for his solidarity with the vulnerable, his abiding grace, and his unrelenting faith in the common good and our common humanity. His legacy as a peacemaker, human rights champion and humanitarian will endure," he noted. Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, died on Sunday at the age of 100. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information. Xiaomi introduces 15th Anniversary Edition color for Xiaomi SU7 sedan To celebrate its 15th anniversary, Xiaomi is introducing a special "Brilliant Magenta" color for the Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan. Sales of the special edition colored model will begin on January 1, 2025 via the Xiaomi EV App. Photo credit: Xiaomi VOYAH DREAM realizes monthly sales of 10,000 units in Dec. VOYAH, the premium new energy vehicle brand under Dongfeng Motor, reported that its DREAM MPV model achieved monthly sales of over 10,000 units in December 2024, marking a significant milestone. ROX Motor achieves highest-ever monthly sales in Dec. 2024 Chinese electric vehicle start-up ROX Motor announced that it delivered 1,268 vehicles in December 2024, which marked the highest monthly figure in the company's history. Tesla's Shanghai Megafactory completes construction Tesla's Shanghai Megafactory has successfully passed its final inspection, just seven months after construction began in May 2024, according to Tesla China. Trial production is already underway, with mass production expected to commence in early 2025. Chassis-by-wire tech firm Trugo Tech nabs 400 million yuan in Series B financing Chinese X-by-wire chassis technology company Trugo Tech recently announced the completion of its Series B financing round, which raised for the company 400 million yuan. DEEPAL releases SL03 Classic Edition sedan with limited supply On December 30, DEEPAL put the SL03 Classic Edition, a sporty sedan offered in a limited supply of 4,000 units, onto the market at 119,900 yuan. Pre-orders are opened at the same time until the limited supply is sold out. FAW Group exports around 125,000 vehicles in 2024, up 36.2% YoY In 2024, Chinese automaker FAW Group realized an export volume of around 125,000 vehicles, representing 36.2% year-on-year jump, according to the company's announcement on December 30. GAC Group transfers stake in Greater Bay Technology for around 1.3 billion yuan On December 30, 2024, GAC Group announced that the company has reached an agreement with its controlling shareholder, Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Industry), to sell an 18.82% stake in Guangzhou Greater Bay Technology Co., Ltd. (GBT) with a total transaction value of approximately 1.331 billion yuan. AESC signs agreement for battery factory's phase II in Cangzhou, Hebei Province On December 29, 2024, battery manufacturer AESC signed the Phase II agreement with the Cangzhou Municipal Government for its battery super factory project in Cangzhou, Hebei Province. Great Wall Motor starts delivery of SOUO S2000 motorcycle, opens flagship store in Beijing On December 28, Great Wall Motor officially began delivery of the SOUO S2000 model under the company's motorcycle brand SOUO. Additionally, the brand's flagship store in Beijing also opened its doors. China's WYP Glass kicks off production of auto glass project in Bengbu city On December 28, Anhui Wuyao Automotive Glass Co., Ltd. (Anhui Wuyao) officially commenced the operation of its automotive glass project with an annual production capacity of 4 million sets in Bengbu city, Anhui province, according to a post on local authority's WeChat account. China's Wuhan city issues regulations to promote intelligent connected vehicle development On December 30, the Standing Committee of the 14th People's Congress of Hubei Province issued the "Regulations on Promoting the Development of Intelligent Connected Vehicles in Wuhan" (hereinafter referred to as "the Regulations"), which will be enacted on March 1, 2025. BYD SEALION 07 DM-i included in MIIT's catalogue The BYD SEALION 07 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid electric SUV from BYD, has been included in a catalogue recently issued by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). ASENSING to supply high-precision positioning system to global luxury car brand Chinese high-precision positioning system supplier ASENSING Technology ("ASENSING") announced that it recently secured a supply deal with an overseas luxury car brand for its premium vehicle platform, marking another milestone in the company's overseas expansion. Dongfeng Motor anticipates yearly sales of 2.48 million vehicles in 2024 On December 30, Dongfeng Motor Corporation held its 2025 work conference in Wuhan, announcing its performance projections for 2024 and strategic goals for 2025. Changan Automobile eyes annual sales target of 3 million vehicles in 2025 On December 29, Changan Automobile held its 2025 Global Partners Conference, reflecting on achievements, analyzing industry trends, and outlining its 2025 objectives and key strategies. DEEPAL aims to sell 500,000 vehicles in 2025 On December 30, DEEPAL, the new energy vehicle brand under Changan Automobile, celebrated the production of its 400,000th complete vehicle. This milestone was achieved in just 29 months. Chandigarh, Dec 31 : Haryana Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Bedi on Tuesday said action is being taken against those responsible for the suicide of a Scheduled Caste woman college student. Responding to tweets made by Congress leaders relating to the crime, he said instead of defending the culprits, those who tweeted should focus on demanding action against them. "An FIR has been filed, and the police are working diligently to apprehend the culprits," the minister told the media here. He said that the college where the girl studied had been talking about free education and transport facilities in the area for some time. He said videos of the local MLA are also available on social media in this regard. The victim's father has filed a complaint with the police, alleging that the college principal and his brother had mentally and physically tortured the girl. An FIR was registered at the Loharu police station on December 27, and the police are actively working to apprehend the culprits. Stressing again that the leaders who are tweeting about this case should focus on demanding action against the culprits, Bedi said that by tweeting half-heartedly, these leaders are attempting to shield the culprits. "They should instead work towards ensuring justice for the victim." He questioned why these Congress leaders did not tweet during the Mirchpur incident. Targeting former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, the minister asked whether he would ask his MLA about this matter. He condemned the tweets that seemed to defend the culprits, urging the leaders to retract their tweets and focus on demanding action against the culprits to ensure justice for the victim girl. He asserted that the government "stands with the victim's family, and action will be taken against the culprits". Seoul, Dec 31 : At least 13 people were injured on Tuesday when a sedan driven by a 73-year-old man crashed into multiple people at a traditional market in South Korea's Seoul, police said. The accident occurred at Mokdong Kkaebi Market in southwestern Seoul at around 3:50 pm, leaving four people seriously injured and nine others with minor injuries. No deaths have been reported so far, police said. The driver, who was not seriously injured, was reportedly alone in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Witnesses said the car struck pedestrians and stalls before travelling about 100 metres further into the market and coming to a stop. Among the injured is a 40-year-old employee of a fruit store, who suffered critical injuries. He was working at the store when the sedan crashed into it. Police said alcohol and drug tests conducted on the driver returned negative. The driver told investigators during questioning that he had taken the car out of storage because he was concerned about the battery running out after a long period of inactivity. "I accelerated to avoid a bus in front of me and then hit the brakes near a market stall. However, I don't clearly remember what happened next," he said. The driver did not claim the crash was caused by sudden unintended acceleration, police added. The police plan to investigate the cause of the crash based on surveillance camera footage, Yonhap news agency reported. Meanwhile, the country's government has set up nearly 90 memorial altars in 17 major cities and provinces across the nation to allow anyone to visit and pay their respects to the victims of the tragic Jeju Air crash. The remains of 174 of the 179 people killed in plane crash have tentatively been identified, the land ministry said Tuesday. During a briefing for victims' families at Muan International Airport in the county 288 kilometers south of Seoul, the ministry said it is still checking to identify the remaining five victims. "Of the 32 people who could not be identified by fingerprints, we identified 17 people in the first DNA test and 10 more in the second round," it said. "We are further confirming the remaining five due to DNA inconsistencies." The bodies of four of the identified victims have been handed over to their families, and funeral arrangements have begun at their respective hometowns this day, according to officials. Officials earlier said it could take up to 10 days for all the remains to be identified and delivered to the bereaved families as most of the bodies were severely charred. Pune : , Dec 31 (IANS) Hours after he posted a video statement and 'surrendered', fugitive Walmik Karad -- the prime suspect in the killing of Massajog Sarpanch Santosh Pandit Deshmukh on December 9 -- was whisked off by a police team to Beed's Kej village police station for further investigations, a top official said here on Tuesday evening. State Crime Investigation Department (CID) Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police, Sarang Awhad, told media persons that Karad came forward voluntarily and gave himself up at the Pune CID Office. He arrived in a plush car owned by an activist of the ruling MahaYuti ally Nationalist Congress Party, alighted with folded hands and was virtually mobbed for bytes by the paparazzi assembled there, but was quickly surrounded by CID sleuths and steered inside. There Karad was questioned for a few hours by a team of officials and around 4 p.m., a police team quietly bundled him into a van and drove off to Beed, catching the huge media contingent outside the CID office unawares. Karad -- a close aide of Maharashtra Food & Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay P. Munde -- is likely to be produced before a local magistrate for a night remand hearing in Kej, officials indicated. After the abduction, brutal torture and broad daylight murder of Sarpanch Deshmukh, Karad's name cropped up and Munde's name followed soon, escalating into a massive political furore in the state. Following uproar both in the Legislature and outside, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT), and on Tuesday (December 31), post-surrender he called up the Deshmukh family and reiterated that justice would be done in the case. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (SP)-Shiv Sena (UBT), plus Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, Shivba Sanghatana and others have launched a strong attack on the MahaYuti regime, blamed it for failure to arrest Karad for nearly three weeks, till he surrendered himself on Tuesday. NCP (SP) Working President Supriya Sule and General Secretary Dr Jitendra Awhad sharply asked "What was the police and CID doing till he (Karad) gave himself up" and "How did the cops have no inkling of Karad who was hiding in Pune for past three days". Congress' Atul Londhe said the police were hampered by the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'interference', demanded Fadnavis' resignation and sought a court-monitored probe into the Sarpanch case, while Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Kishore Tiwari contended that the entire 'surrender drama' is suspicious while seeking transparency in the investigations. Though Karad has not been named in the Sarpanch case, he was booked in a Rs 2-crore extortion demand from a windmill company in Beed and assault on a security guard. However, on December 11 -- two days after Deshmukh's killing -- his name was tossed up and he went 'missing', but his phone records showed he was moving in Pune and Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), as he became 'wanted' by the Maharashtra Police. This afternoon, BJP MLA Suresh R. Dhas and NCP (SP) MLA Sandeep R. Kshirsagar -- who were vociferous on their demands for Karad's arrest called on Fadnavis, and later the grim CM said that "Goonda raj will not be allowed in the state and nobody involved in the Sarpanch murder would be spared." Karad, who is considered close to the Munde political clan of Beed, especially Dhananjay P. Munde hails from a poor family of Pangri village in Parli tehsil. As a teenager, he came into contact with the late BJP stalwarts -- former Union minister Gopinath P. Munde (father of Minister Pankaja G. Munde) and his brother Panditrao P. Munde (the father of Dhananjay P. Munde). Karad was entrusted with setting up the first BJP youth wing, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) in Parli under the tutelage of Panditrao P. Munde. Moving up, in 2001, Karad was elected as a corporator of Parli Municipal Council and served as a Deputy Mayor, while his clout grew with the Mundes and in local politics. Over the years, Karad has built up an unenviable reputation with over a dozen big and small criminal cases lodged against him, but he vehemently denied the latest extortion case in his video statement this morning. He also contended he was being framed in the extortion case -- which is now being linked with the Beed Sarpanch murder case -- but expressed readiness to cooperate with the investigators and accept any punishment. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: qnajmi@gmail.com) Seoul, Dec 31 : South Korea has confirmed its 19th case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) at an egg farm in the country's central region of North Chungcheong Province, authorities said on Tuesday. The latest case was detected at a layer hen farm in Eumseong county, about 90 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the authorities said. The owner of the farm made the initial report on an increase in deaths among the livestock, reports Yonhap news agency. This raises the number of such AI cases to 19 for the winter season this year. Authorities have contained the area and decided to cull some 44,000 chickens raised at the farm. They also plan to carry out inspections at eight other farms owned by the same agricultural company, and some 55 other poultry farms within the affected farm's quarantine zone. Meanwhile, California's battle against avian influenza A (H5N1) intensified amid spreading infections across dairy farms and a growing number of human infection, including two newly confirmed cases in Stanislaus and Los Angeles counties. The virus, commonly known as bird flu, has infected 659 of California's 984 dairy operations since August, with one-quarter of these cases emerging in the past month alone, according to California authorities. The rapid spread through the state's dairy industry prompted Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency last week to protect agricultural workers and public health, Xinhua news agency reported. "This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak," Newsom said in a statement. The outbreak's human impact has grown increasingly severe, with California reporting at least 36 confirmed cases -- more than half of the nation's total of 65, according to the latest report by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), though the actual count is likely higher as recent local confirmations may not yet be reflected in federal data. Imphal, Dec 31 : More than 15 people, mostly women, were injured during a clash with security forces at Uyokching in Manipur's tribal inhabited Kangpokpi District on Tuesday when they were protesting against violence in the state, officials said. A police official said that over 15 people, mostly women, were injured, two of them seriously, when the tribal women during a protest against the violence in the state clashed with the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) at the tribal dominated Uyokching areas of Kangpokpi District. A Manipur Police statement said that a large number of womenfolk attempted to disrupt the deployment of the Army, BSF and CRPF at Uyokching, near Thamnapokpi. "The combined security forces dispersed the crowd with minimum use of force and now the situation is peaceful and under control. The combined security forces were deployed at the hilltop to dominate the area and prevent any untoward incident in the area," the statement said. Several tribal organisations, including the Women Wing of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights, Kuki-Zo Women's Forum said that more than 30 women were injured in the clash with the security forces. All these organisations strongly condemned the incident. The women wing of the ITLF alleged that a brutal attack by the security forces on Tuesday on the protest resulted in serious injuries to more than 30 women, including a severe head injury, and is a gross violation of human rights and an affront to the dignity of the Kuki-Zo community. The organisation said that Tuesday's incident is particularly disturbing as it occurs during the Christmas-New Year period, a time when people come together to celebrate peace, love, and joy. "Instead, the CAPF's actions have brought fear, trauma, and suffering to the community. Since it wounded the sentiments of the Kuki-Zo community, the Saibul-Twichin incident would be closely monitored by the Kuki-Zo community worldwide. We demand that the CAPF immediately cease their intrusive operations and allow the people to celebrate the New Year in peace," the ITLF said. Urging the government to stop attacks on the Kuki-Zo communities, the women wing of the ITLF said that appropriate steps must be taken to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure that those responsible for the violence are held accountable. "In order to keep the state peaceful, we implore the government to put an end to the Meitei community's attacks on Kuki-Zo villages. The ITLF Women Wing stands in solidarity with the Kuki-Zo women at Saibul-Twichin area and demands justice for the victims who were assaulted by the CAPF," the statement said. Sanaa, Dec 31 : Yemen's Houthi group launched rockets overnight towards Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and a US aircraft carrier, said the group's spokesperson on Tuesday. "The first operation targeted Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv with a hypersonic ballistic missile," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement aired by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV, adding that the second operation targeted a power station south of Jerusalem with a ballistic missile. Israeli media on Monday night reported that the two rockets launched from Yemen were intercepted over the cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, showing footage of shrapnel littered on the streets. The Houthi military spokesperson also said that the group launched "successful" overnight rocket and drone attacks at the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman. Late Monday night, the US-led navy coalition conducted two airstrikes on Houthi targets in the At-Tuhayta district in southern Hodeidah province, the Houthi al-Masirah TV reported. The US side is yet to comment on the incident, Xinhua news agency reported. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023, to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Houthi group has recently intensified rocket and drone attacks at the US military presence in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. On Monday night, Houthi media reported that a US-British naval coalition conducted two airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah province, targeting the At-Tuhayta district in the southwest of the province. The report did not provide further details, but residents in the district said on social media that two powerful explosions shook their homes. The US Central Command has not yet commented on the incidents but typically issues a statement later to confirm any airstrike conducted by its forces. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been regularly launching rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting 'Israeli-linked' shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Xinhua news agency reported, quoting Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. Earlier on December 27, the coalition launched an airstrike on the Houthi-held Yemeni capital of Sanaa, targeting the 1st Armor Division in the city. The 1st Armor Division was a military site under Houthi control. The airstrike shook the entire city, and ambulances were heard rushing to the targeted site. The fresh airstrike came one day after Israel launched waves of airstrikes on December 26, targeting multiple Houthi sites in Yemen, including an airport, two power stations, and several ports. The Israeli offensive, the fourth of the year, killed at least 6 people and injured 40 others, according to Houthi television. Chennai, Dec 31 : In sharp criticism of actor Vijay, Rajiv Gandhi, the president of the DMK Students' Wing, lambasted Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay, stating that he could not distinguish between fascism and "payasam," the popular South Indian dessert. Chennai, Dec 31 (IANS) In sharp criticism of actor Vijay, Rajiv Gandhi, the president of the DMK Students' Wing, lambasted Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay, stating that he could not distinguish between fascism and "payasam," the popular South Indian dessert. The remarks referred to Vijay's speech at the TVK's maiden state conference in October and were made following his recent meeting with Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi, a known DMK critic. During this meeting, law and order issues in Tamil Nadu, including the sexual assault of an Anna University student, were discussed. Rajiv Gandhi highlighted that in the press release issued by the Raj Bhavan, Vijay's name was explicitly stated as "C. Joseph Vijay," identifying his religious background. However, in the petition submitted by Vijay to the Governor, his name was simply mentioned as 'Vijay.' Addressing this in a social media post, Rajiv Gandhi remarked, "Respected Vijay, do you know what fascism is? In the press release issued by the Raj Bhavan, which functions as an adjunct of the BJP's state headquarters, Kamalalayam, your name was transformed into 'C. Joseph Vijay.' This, sir, is a quintessential example of fascism." The DMK Students' Wing president's comments have sparked a heated debate on social media, with many supporting his stance while others accused him of politicising the issue and resorting to mudslinging. The controversy follows Vijay's public speech on October 27 at Vikkaravandi in Villupuram district, where he openly criticised the DMK and its heir apparent, Udhayanidhi Stalin. Vijay labeled the DMK as the TVK's political enemy and condemned the party for corruption and dynastic politics. Since Vijay's attack on the DMK, the party has consistently retaliated against the Tamil superstar-turned-politician, with the recent remarks by the DMK Students' Wing president being viewed as a continuation of this political feud. Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 31 : A special fast-track court in the Kerala capital on Tuesday sentenced, to 111 years rigorous imprisonment, a state government official, who conducted tuitions, for raping a Class 11 student. Special court judge R. Rekha also slapped a Rs 1.05 lakh fine on the convict, Manoj, 44, and if that is not paid, he will spend an additional year in prison. The judge, while giving the verdict, said the guilty needs to be shown no mercy for the crime committed. The incident occurred on July 2, 2019, around 11 a.m. Manoj had asked the girl student to come to his house for a special class, and when she did, he raped her and also filmed the act. Previously also he tried to molest the young girl, but failed. Following this incident, the girl stopped coming to him for tuition out of fear. Later, Manoj's wife came to know about the incident, called the girl to their house, and got angry with her. Soon differences of opinion started between Manoj and his wife and after some time, his wife committed suicide. Later the video of Manoj and the girl surfaced in the public domain, following which her parents gave a written complaint to the police and he was arrested. During the course of the trial, Manoj tried his best to come clean by producing evidence of him not being at his house at the said time, but the prosecution evidence by way of his mobile records pointed out that during that time, he was present in and around the place. Seoul, Dec 31 : South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol's legal defence team plans to seek an injunction to suspend a detention warrant issued against the impeached president over his failed martial law bid, one of his lawyers said on Tuesday, while criticising the warrant as 'illegal.' Earlier in the day, the Seoul Western District Court approved a request from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) to issue the warrant for Yoon on charges of masterminding the botched December 3 martial law declaration, orchestrating the insurrection and abusing power, according to the CIO. The court also approved a warrant to search Yoon's presidential residence in Seoul's Yongsan in connection with the investigation. Yun Gap-geun, one of Yoon's legal representatives, said the arrest and search warrants issued upon request by the CIO are "illegal and invalid" because the CIO has "no investigative rights" on charges of insurrection. "It is shocking and difficult to accept that a warrant requested by an agency that has no investigative rights was issued," Yun told reporters. "It is clear that the current detention warrant is illegal. (We) regret the court decision." Yun said the defence team plans to file for an injunction to suspend the warrant's effect, as well as request the Constitutional Court to review the constitutionality of the warrant. The CIO filed for the detention warrant after Yoon ignored all three summonses to appear for questioning over the short-lived martial law invocation. Yun defended Yoon's rejection of the summonses, saying investigators did not consult with them to coordinate an appearance by the president. "(He) is not receiving preferential treatment because he is a person of power, rather he is suffering disadvantages," the lawyer said. Yun also said there was no reason for Yoon to avoid an investigation, saying he plans to face any investigative authorities "confidently" and "by law" if they follow legal procedures, Yonhap news agency reported. Yoon will make his stance over his declaration of martial law at an "appropriate" time, the lawyer said, adding he will likely appear at his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court at least once. Beijing (Gasgoo)- On December 30, DEEPAL, the new energy vehicle brand under Changan Automobile, celebrated the production of its 400,000th complete vehicle. This milestone was achieved in just 29 months. Photo credit: DEEPAL At the celebration event, DEEPAL released the SL03 Classic Edition, priced at 119,900 yuan with a limited supply of 4,000 units. Built on the success of the SL03 lineup, the SL03 Classic Edition combines dynamic styling, robust performance, and intelligent features, catering to younger consumers. DEEPAL has consistently demonstrated strong market performance, with monthly sales exceeding 30,000 units from October to December 2024. In December alone, the carmaker delivered over 36,000 vehicles, contributing to an annual total of over 240,000 vehicles in 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, DEEPAL aims for annual global sales of 500,000 vehicles, with 400,000 units expected from the domestic market and 100,000 units from overseas. Its expanding lineup now includes five models: the SL03, G318, S07, L07, and S05. DEEPAL plans to launch two new models in 2025 to meet diverse consumer demands. Meanwhile, it aims to expand its presence in 81 international markets and strengthen its globalized product portfolio to support its ambitious growth objectives. Jerusalem, Dec 31 : The Israeli military announced Tuesday that the Israeli Air Force killed Anas Muhammad Saadi Masri, commander of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) movement's rocket unit in northern Gaza, in an airstrike in early December. According to a statement by the military, Masri was responsible for directing rocket attacks from northern Gaza against civilians and soldiers in southern Israel, including during the Hamas rampage last October. The military vowed to continue targeting individuals involved in alleged attacks on Israeli civilians. The PIJ has yet to comment on the Israeli announcement, Xinhua news agency reported. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a rampage led by Hamas through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage. Fighters in the Gaza Strip had fired about five rockets at southern Israel on Sunday afternoon, the Israeli military had said. The rockets triggered air raid warning sirens in the city of Sderot and other communities near the Palestinian enclave though no injuries were reported. In a statement, the Israeli military had said that two of the rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-rocket system, while the rest "likely fell in open areas." Last week, the Israeli defence authorities had confirmed that an Israeli military commander was killed during combat in the Gaza Strip. Amit Levi, 35, a squad commander in a patrol battalion of Israel's elite "Arrows of Fire" infantry and paratroop brigade, "fell during combat in central Gaza," the army said in a statement on Thursday. Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported that Levi was killed by Palestinian militant fire in central Gaza's "Netzarim Corridor," which is now controlled by the army. The army troops have established new bases in the area. Levi's death marked the 822nd Israeli soldier killed since the start of Israel's wars on multiple fronts last October. Kolkata, Dec 31 : Eastern Railway (ER) claims to have made elaborate preparations for those planning a visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela scheduled to begin at Prayagraj from January 14, 2025. According to officials, more than 17,000 berths have been generated on special trains that will be run during the Mela. "To ensure seamless travel and accommodate the massive demand of pilgrims to this grand event, the Railways is delighted to announce the operation of 18 pairs of Kumbh Mela Special trains which will run between Kamakhya-Tundla and Bhagalpur-Kanpur Central. This initiative will generate more than 17,000 berths, providing safe, comfortable, and convenient travel options for devotees embarking on their sacred journey," said Kausik Mitra, Eastern Railway Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO). The 04153 Kanpur Central-Bhagalpur Kumbha Mela Special will leave Kanpur Central at 2 p.m. every Monday between January 6 and February 17, 2025 and reach Bhagalpur at 9:15 a.m. the next morning. There will be a total of five trips. The train will stop at Sultanganj, Monghyr, Begusarai, Barauni, Hajipur, Pataliputra, Danapur, Ara, Buxar, Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, Mirzapur, Prayagraj and Fatehpur stations in both directions. The trains will have general second class, sleeper class and air-conditioned accommodation. The 05611 Kamakhya-Tundla Kumbha Mela Special will leave Kamakhya at 5:30 a.m. on January 9 and 25, and February 8 and 22, 2025, to reach Tundla at 7:20 p.m. the next evening. The 05612 Tundla-Kamakhya Kumbha Mela Special will leave Tundla at 3 a.m. on January 11 and 27 as well as February 10 and 24, 2025, to reach Kamakhya at 5:45 p.m. the next day. The train will stop at Malda town, New Farakka, Barharwa, Sahibganj, Kahalgaon, Bhagalpur, Sultanganj, Jamalpur and Abhaipur stations over ER's jurisdiction in both directions en route. The bookings of the above special trains are available through the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and the Internet. "In addition to this, ER has announced the running of 42 pairs of special trains for the journey to and from Prayagraj, facilitating ease of journey for Maha Kumbha Mela devotees. Among these, 11 pairs will be run between Malda Town and Prayagraj, 27 pairs between Howrah and Tundla via Prayagraj and four pairs of trains between Howrah and Bhind via Prayajraj. These trains are designed to ensure that devotees from the eastern and northeastern regions of India have smooth access to the holy city. These trains are equipped with enhanced safety and comfort measures to accommodate the high volume of travellers. Special focus is given to maintaining punctuality, cleanliness, and hygiene throughout the journey," Mitra added. Tehran, Dec 31 : Iran's envoy to the United Nations (UN) has rejected the accusations by the United States and Britain about Tehran's role in escalating tensions in the Red Sea, Iran's official news agency IRNA reported Tuesday. Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran's permanent representative to the UN, made the remarks on Monday in letters to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Linda Thomas-Greenfield, UN Security Council (UNSC) president for the month of December, while reacting to what he called "baseless and politically-motivated" anti-Tehran claims made by the US and British representatives at a UNSC briefing earlier in the day. During the briefing, US Deputy Representative to the UN Dorothy Shea accused Iran of "fully funding" Yemen's Houthis and providing them with "lethal weapons" for attacks on Israel. In similar remarks, Barbara Woodward, British permanent representative to the UN, also accused Iran of assisting the Yemeni armed forces in their ongoing operations against Israel. Iravani denounced these accusations as "unfounded" claims intended to escalate tensions and create an excuse to cause further instability in West Asia. He also slammed Israel as being behind these "baseless" accusations, in a "clear bid" to throw dirt on Iran and to cover its own "illegal actions and destructive activities." The Iranian envoy emphasised that it is Israel, not Iran, that has always pursued a policy of "provocation" and has long been a "serious threat" to peace and security in the region and beyond, Xinhua news agency reported. He said Iran has always been committed to international law, the UN Charter, and UNSC resolutions. The Houthi group has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023 to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their conflict with Israelis. In response, Israel and the US-British naval coalition in the region have been conducting intermittent strikes on Houthi targets to deter the group. Patna, Dec 31 : The Patna district administration has implemented comprehensive security measures ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations to ensure public safety. District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh has directed officials to exercise heightened vigilance during the festivities. He has deployed adequate magistrates and police officers across the district. Quick Response Teams (QRT) and Special Mobile Teams have been instructed to remain on high alert. Special attention is being given to Patna Marine Drive, with strict action planned against reckless driving, especially by bikers. Besides Marine Drive, Patna Police has also instructed every police station to ensure complete security in all parks, restaurants and areas around water bodies. The operation of motorboats and other boats in the Ganga and other rivers like Punpun will be completely prohibited from the evening of December 31 to 6 P.M. on January 1. Violators of this prohibition will face strict action. "River patrolling teams have been stationed along the Ganga riverbanks to enforce the boating restrictions and ensure safety. The administration has taken proactive measures with an aim to create a secure environment for the public to celebrate the New Year responsibly," Singh said. All CCTVs will be actively monitored by police personnel in the control room. Makeshift police barricades will also be put in place at different locations to ensure safety and security. "During the period, the violators of traffic rules, especially bikers, will face immediate challans based on CCTV evidence," he said. The Patna traffic police will pay special attention to bikers, ensuring that they comply with safety and traffic norms. "We have urged residents to celebrate responsibly, maintaining peace and order in the city," Singh said. These measures are part of an effort to promote safety and discipline during the festivities and prevent any untoward incidents. Varanasi, Dec 31 : A group of 20 resilient women, dubbed as the 'Green Army', hailing from Uttar Pradesh's Deora village near Varanasi, are on a mission to eradicate social evils from the society. They have been running a highly successful campaign against alcohol abuse, child marriage and dowry in the village and also getting admiration for their social work. The 'Green Army' recently received an inspiring letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which they say has fueled their determination to keep pushing forward. Nirmala Devi, a key member of the Green Army, sharing her heartwarming journey told IANS, "We are a team of 20 women, working relentlessly for over 10 years to eradicate social evils like drugs and any form of addiction in our village. We are committed to making our village 'Nasha Mukht' (free from intoxication). Our efforts have resulted in sending several offenders to prison, and we are proud of our achievements." Nirmala further said that the Green Armyas mission isnat just limited to combating substance abuse. "We are also working on issues like child marriage and dowry, which have plagued our society for generations. We are here to bring change, and the letter from PM Modi has inspired all of us to continue our fight." Prem Kumari, another member of the group, shared the transformative impact of their work. "When I first joined the Green Army, I wasnat even allowed to step outside my house. Now, I feel free, empowered, and more determined to fight for my community. Although we face challenges, especially when trying to convince those who resist change, we know that with the administration's help and our growing support, we will overcome them," she said. Manju, another Green Army member, echoed similar sentiments: "We have faced many obstacles in our journey, but our resolve has only grown stronger. Our fight against 'Nasha' and child marriage continues, and PM Modias support has been crucial in boosting our morale." The Green Armyas success is not just in their activism but in their unity and empowerment. Ravi Mishra, President of HOPE Welfare Trust, explained the origins of the Green Army, stating, "We saw the struggles of women in rural areas and decided to take action. We established the Green Army to empower women and eliminate social evils such as superstition and intoxication. These women have undergone two months of training, and their work is making a real difference." The Green Armyas journey began with a unique initiative: a shoe-making factory in Deora. The first slippers produced were not sold but instead sent as a symbol of their determination to the Prime Minister. In a heartwarming turn of events, the Prime Minister acknowledged their efforts by sending a letter of appreciation. As Nirmala Devi shared the letter with the media, her joy was palpable. "It felt as though PM Modi was here with us, standing alongside us. We are overwhelmed by his support," she said, her eyes shining with pride. The story of the Green Army and their wide array of social work was also showcased in a video, shared by the Modi Archive. New Delhi, Dec 31 : Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva on Tuesday unveiled a video poster prepared by the party's social media department, showcasing Arvind Kejriwal's nine changing faces and exposing the former Chief Minister's alleged opportunistic ideology. The video, conceptualised by Rohit Upadhyay of the BJP social media team, exposes Kejriwal and raises awareness among the public, said Sachdeva. Delhi BJO Media Head Praveen Shankar Kapoor compared Kejriwal's constantly shifting persona to the film 'Naya Din Nai Raat', in which actor Sanjeev Kumar portrays multiple roles to suit various situations. Sachdeva highlighted how the video exposes Kejriwal's opportunistic stance on religion, revealing his fake attempts to glorify Hinduism during elections. The Delhi BJP President accused Kejriwal of hypocrisy, stating, "A person who questions the existence of Lord Ram can never be a true proponent of Hindu nationalism. He represents lies, deceit, and manipulation." While bidding farewell to 2024, Sachdeva stated that Delhiites too have decided to oust an opportunistic 'electoral Hindu' from the power corridor of Delhi. Playing nine video clips of Kejriwal, the BJP demonstrated instances where he insulted Lord Ram, desecrated the Swastika, mocked deities, and disrespected Lord Krishna's Sudarshan. The two-and-a-half-minute video displays the vile mindset of Kejriwal and his team. As elections draw closer, Kejriwal suddenly remembers temple priests, said Sachdeva, adding, "But Delhi residents understand that Kejriwal represents lies." Comparing Kejriwal's behaviour to a scene in the film 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa', Sachdeva said, "In the movie, one character runs from water. Similarly, mention water in front of Kejriwal, and he shirks moral responsibilities, as he remembers how 21,000 people died from drinking contaminated water in 2023-24, along with 62 deaths due to waterlogging." The BJP President further stated, "Kejriwal has repeatedly dishonoured the Hindu community, glorified anti-national elements, and is not only an enemy of Sanatan Dharma but also of the nation's security. Expecting Delhi's prosperity under him is futile." Referring to Kejriwal's announced visit to Connaught Place Hanuman Mandir which didn't happen, Sachdeva claimed that upon learning of priests' protests there, Kejriwal discreetly went to another Hanuman temple, which he had previously ignored. Rome, Dec 31 : Montenegro has extradited South Korean crypto mogul Do Kwon to the United States, where he will stand trial for allegations related to the 2022 collapse of some crypto coins, reports said Tuesday. Montenegrin police handed Kwon over to US officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and judicial authorities at Podgorica International Airport, according to local reports. His extradition to the US came nearly two years after Kwon was arrested in Montenegro in March last year for traveling on a fake passport. 33-year-old Kwon, whose full name is Kwon Do-hyung, is a co-founder of the cryptocurrency firm Terraform Labs and has been wanted both by South Korea and the US for an investigation and possible indictment on charges connected to the massive crash of TerraUSD and Luna coins run by his company. The crash was estimated to have wiped out nearly 50 trillion won (US$33.9 billion) in market value, Yonhap news agency reported. Kwon has sought legal action in Montenegro to be repatriated to South Korea to face legal proceedings, but the Montenegrin court has rejected his appeals. Last week, the Montenegrin government decided that it will extradite Do Kwon to the United States for trial. Montenegro's Justice Minister Bojan Bozovic signed the decision ordering the extradition of Do Kwon, whose full name is Kwon Do-hyung, to the US, the local online newspaper Vijesti reported Friday. Seoul authorities have been looking into Kwon's fraud and tax evasion charges after investors in the company's cryptocurrencies -- TerraUSD and Luna -- pressed Ponzi-scheme charges against him following the coins' massive crash in May 2022. TerraUSD was designed as a stablecoin, which was pegged to stable assets like the US dollar. But holders of TerraUSD and Luna lost more than an estimated US$40 billion in market value after the stablecoin plunged far below its $1 peg in May 2022. London, Dec 31 : West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has been discharged from the hospital after spending three weeks in the hospital following a serious car accident. Antonio had undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following the accident on December 7 in Epping, Essex, and was taken to a central London hospital. Photos of the car had flooded online, raising concern for Antonio's state. Following a swift response by the National Health Services and Air Ambulances UK, Antonio, who was stuck in the car, was released from the vehicle and rushed to the hospital. The East London-based club has raised up to 60,000 Pounds through charity to thank the NHS and Air Ambulance for their services. "West Ham United will donate close to 60,000 to the NHS and Air Ambulances UK charities following an auction of match-worn items from their recent Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers. "The auction, which took place following Michail Antonio's road traffic accident, will see the proceeds equally split between the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity, the national charity supporting the lifesaving work of the UK's Air Ambulance charities," read the statement by the club. Antonio is West Ham's all-time leading scorer in the Premier League, with 68 goals in 268 league appearances. "We are all grateful for the care that both the NHS and Air Ambulances UK have given to Michail during a challenging time for him and his family, and for what they continue to do every single day for people around the country. "Pulling together during difficult times is what being a part of West Ham United is all about and on behalf of the team, I want to thank everyone for helping us to raise an incredible amount of money for two great causes," said West Ham captain Jarred Bowen. West Ham United's woes worsened, with Antonio already out, the club confirmed a significant blow to their season with the news that captain Jarrod Bowen has sustained a fractured foot. The injury occurred during the Hammers' 0-5 loss against Liverpool at London Stadium on Sunday. Currently sitting in 13th place in the Premier League, West Ham must now navigate the demanding January fixtures without their key players. New Delhi, Dec 31 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has delivered an impressive 100 per cent conviction rate for 2024, marking a year of significant accomplishments in its ongoing battle against terrorism, extremism, and organised crime. The agency's achievements were underpinned by its strong focus on Left Wing Extremism (LWE), North-East insurgency, and the growing nexus between terrorists and gangsters. According to NIAas year-end report, the agency registered 80 cases in 2024, making a total of 210 arrests across various criminal categories. The majority of these cases involved LWE (28 cases) and North-East insurgency (18 cases), with other key areas including Jammu & Kashmir jihadi activities, explosives, human trafficking, and the terror-gangster nexus. In 2024, the NIA registered a diverse range of cases, including seven related to J&K jihadi activities, six involving explosive substances, and five focused on human trafficking. Four other jihadi cases, four linked to Khalistani terrorism, and two ISIS-related cases were also registered. The agency further addressed cases in gangsters, cyber terrorism, FICN (Fake Indian Currency Notes), and other categories. The NIAas performance in 2024 was underscored by 68 convictions across 25 cases and the charge sheeting of 408 accused individuals. The agency also attached 137 properties and assets worth Rs 19.57 crore, part of its sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist, gangster, and other criminal networks. The agencyas record performance included the conviction of 68 individuals in 25 cases and the filing of charge sheets against 408 accused. NIA also attached assets worth Rs 19.57 crore in 2024 as part of its efforts to disrupt terror networks and criminal operations. LWE cases accounted for the highest number of arrests, with 69 individuals detained in relation to 28 LWE cases. The NIA also focused on North-East insurgency, particularly operations targeting the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA-I). In a major crackdown, the NIA arrested several individuals linked to ULFA-Ias call for an Independence Day boycott and its alleged planting of IEDs across Assam. One of the key highlights of 2024 was the agencyas successful action against the growing terrorist-gangster nexus. In total, 14 individuals were arrested in connection with Khalistani terrorism, and 13 arrests were made in gangster-related cases. The agency conducted 662 searches across all types of cases, a significant increase in its operations. NIA's agility in solving high-profile cases was evident throughout the year. In the murder of VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar, the agency swiftly charge-sheeted six individuals, including the Pakistan-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) chief, Wadhawa Singh. NIA also made rapid progress in the extortion and firing case involving gangster Goldy Brar, charge-sheeting 10 individuals, including Brar himself. Moreover, the successful extradition of Khalistani terrorist Tarsem Singh Sandhu from the UAE underscored the NIAas global reach in tackling cross-border terrorism. Arms seizures across the country formed another significant aspect of NIAas operations. A major arms haul was reported from Jammu, where a Hizbul Mujahideen overground worker was found in possession of explosives and firearms. Similar recoveries were made in cities like Jaipur, Patna, and Ranchi, highlighting the agency's relentless efforts to curb illegal arms trafficking, says the report. Other major developments included the arrest of 11 ISIS jihadis, five individuals connected to J&K-based jihadist groups, and 24 others linked to various terror activities. The agency also cracked down on human trafficking networks, arresting key operatives involved in trafficking people from Myanmar to India. In one of the yearas most high-profile cases, the NIA solved the Rameshwaram cafe blast case within months, securing five arrests and four charge sheets. This case was among several in which the NIA demonstrated its capacity to act swiftly, thanks to close coordination with intelligence agencies and state police forces. The NIA also focused on capturing long-pending fugitives. Among the 27 absconding criminals arrested was Savad, who had been on the run for 13 years in connection with the Kerala professor hand-chopping case. Other notable arrests included those related to human trafficking and the murder of BJP leader Praveen Nettaru. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance national security, NIA conducted 11 training programmes for 1,678 state police officials in 2024. The agency also established two exclusive NIA courts in Jammu and Ranchi, marking a significant step towards strengthening its operational capabilities. Similarly, the agency released a new handbook on the investigation of terrorism cases under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P)A), standardising procedures for dealing with national security threats. Mahakumbh Nagar, Dec 31 : President of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad, Mahant Ravindra Puri, in an exclusive interview with IANS on Tuesday, shared his views on several important issues, including religious, cultural, and political matters. Replying to a question, Mahant Puri objected to the use of the term 'Shahi Snan' (ritual bath) at Kumbh, saying it is an Urdu word so we have decided to use 'Rajsi' (royal) instead of this word. He further said that "the words used in our Sanatan tradition and culture are deeply tied to Indian heritage. While Urdu and Hindi share a historical connection, when it comes to religion, tradition, and culture, the preference is always for Sanskrit or Hindi". Supporting RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Mahant Ravindra Puri said that Bhagwat is a great guardian of Sanatan Dharma, doing excellent work for the community. He clarified that Bhagwat's statements were never intended to escalate Hindu-Muslim conflicts but were focused on the protection of religion and culture. "His message was also for Muslims that they should also live with harmony and unity," he added. To another query, Mahant Puri stated that under PM Modi's leadership, Sanatan Dharma faces no threat. He praised the Prime Minister for safeguarding Hindu culture, stating that previous adversaries are now hidden away, and as long as PM Modi remains in power, the religion will be safe. He added that "if PM Modi were to leave, adversaries might resurface, but the Hindu community is now united and prepared for any challenge". When asked about the non-Hindu community not being allowed to put up shops during Kumbh, Mahant Puri made it clear that they have never opposed any non-Hindu person. He stressed that opposition should be directed only at those who work against the community. He stated that the majority of the community's artisans, shopkeepers, and contractors are Muslims, and the relationship has always been harmonious. However, he expressed strong disapproval of those who engage in malicious acts, such as contaminating food and drink, emphasising that such individuals should be kept away from society. The aim is to ensure the Kumbh Mela remains clean, beautiful, and peaceful, sending a positive message. Mahant Puri further elaborated on the importance of the Kumbh Mela and the Ganga, stressing that the event should reflect the purity of Sanatan culture. He mentioned that both the government and saints are working towards making the Ganga's water potable, and those spreading negative propaganda about the river's water quality are wrong. On the political front, Mahant Puri stated that those who oppose the idea of a Hindu nation should recognise that since Prime Minister Modi took office, the ideology of a Hindu Rashtra has gained strength. He declared that India has already become a Hindu nation under PM Modi's leadership. The Prime Minister's personal devotion, demonstrated through his visits to temples and displays of faith, makes it a matter of pride for Hindus, as no previous Prime Minister had shown such devotion. Reacting to Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav's criticism of the Kumbh Mela arrangements, Mahant Puri remarked that Yadav has never spoken in favour of saints and always pursues his political agenda. He invited Yadav to visit the Kumbh and witness the arrangements, claiming that a firsthand look would give him a better understanding of the situation. He highlighted the importance of strengthening the roots of Sanatan Dharma and culture, reminding that many mosques in India were once temples, a truth that should be acknowledged and passed down to future generations. Addressing questions about Muslim entry into the Kumbh area, Mahant Puri stated that there should be no restrictions for good non-Hindus, including officials. However, restrictions will apply to those with "jihadi views" who seek to corrupt the religion, try to erase Sanatan culture. He reiterated that the aim is to ensure peace and harmony in the Kumbh area, avoiding communal tensions. Regarding the creation of a Sanatan Board, Mahant Puri commented on the historical context where the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, allocated land to the Waqf Board for non-Hindus, while Hindus received nothing. He pointed out that today, non-Hindus claim ownership of land for public infrastructure like the Parliament building, airports, and Railways, while the Sanatan community has little. He proposed the creation of a Sanatan Board to claim 80 per cent of the land allocated to the Waqf Board. This, he said, would be decided after discussions with saints and the public. Beijing (Gasgoo)- On December 29, 2024, battery manufacturer AESC signed the Phase II agreement with the Cangzhou Municipal Government for its battery super factory project in Cangzhou, Hebei Province. Signing ceremony; photo credit: AESC The second phase will add a planned capacity of 20 GWh to produce high-quality power and energy storage batteries, with production expected to begin in 2026. AESC initially partnered with the Cangzhou government in September 2022, committing to collaborate in areas such as smart batteries, intelligent energy industrial parks, and smart ports. These efforts aim to advance Cangzhou city's green industrial system and smart city development, supporting China and global zero-carbon transitions. Under the agreement, AESC has established an intelligent battery manufacturing base in Cangzhou with a total planned annual capacity of 30 GWh. The factory's first phase, with 10 GWh capacity, began operation in November 2024. The first batch of products has been directly delivered to overseas clients, achieving "mass production for export." Upon the full operation of both phases, the Cangzhou battery super factory is set to become northern China's largest lithium battery base, with an expected annual output value of 20 billion yuan. Mahakumbh Nagar, Dec 31 : When questioned about the term 'Shahi Snan', Mahant Ramratan, secretary of the Shri Panchayati Akhada Niranjani, in an interview with IANS, explained that the word is outdated and has been replaced with 'Amrit Snan' (the immortal bath) for Maha Kumbh. He further said that 'Amrit Snan' is more appropriate as the water of the Ganges is sacred and akin to nectar, and this change symbolises purity, reflecting the glory of Sanatan Dharma. Mahant Ramratan supported RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement, saying that "he has great respect for him. He praised Bhagwat's efforts to speak about the importance of Sanatan Dharma and highlighted that where symbols of temples are found in mosques, they should be respected and recognised, calling for such surveys. He affirmed that there was nothing wrong with Bhagwat's statement. Regarding the question of whether Sanatan Dharma is in danger, Mahant Ramratan replied confidently that "Sanatan Dharma can never be in danger. He stated that whenever Sanatan Dharma faces a crisis, an incarnation (avatar) arises to protect it". He praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling them capable leaders. He remarked that under their leadership, Sanatan Dharma will always remain safe. When asked about the entry of Muslims into the Kumbh Mela, Mahant Ramratan clarified that he has no issue with Muslims in general, but his objection is only to those who pollute the Mela areas, such as adding filth to tea stalls or water. He emphasised that his concerns are with such individuals, not ordinary Muslims. He also stated that Muslim government officials performing their duties at Kumbh would face no restrictions. Mahant Ramratan described the Ganga water as nectar, saying that bathing in the Ganga washes away sins. He asserted that the Ganga's water is always fit for bathing and remains a vital part of Hinduism, rejecting any claims that Ganga water is no longer suitable for bathing. In response to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's announcement to give Rs 18,000 to priests and clerics, Mahant Ramratan called Kejriwal a dishonest person, stating that he has made several false promises in the past, including many announcements when he became the Chief Minister, none of which were fulfilled. He expressed doubt about Kejriwal's plans, dismissing them as a political tactic. Regarding the speculations about a possible proposal for a Hindu nation at Kumbh, Mahant Ramratan stated that such a proposal was unnecessary. He stressed that the true identity of Hinduism lies in its conduct and devotion, and there is no need to use it for political gain. When questioned about the remarks by Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav and his potential visit to Kumbh, Mahant Ramratan noted that opposition parties are always critical of the government's actions. However, he welcomed the idea of Akhilesh Yadav visiting Kumbh, as it is a religious event, and all leaders are welcome to pay respects to the saints. He reminded that Akhilesh Yadav had visited Kumbh in 2019, and any leader is welcome to visit and seek blessings. Regarding the financial assistance given by the Samajwadi Party (SP) to the families of those who died in the violence in Sambhal, Mahant Ramratan remarked that although five lakh rupees were given to the deceased's families, he questioned whether Akhilesh Yadav had ever made such a contribution for Hindus. He accused the SP leader of indulging in vote-bank politics rather than genuinely helping people. He said that while Akhilesh always stands for Muslims, he never stands up for Hindus when they suffer. On the statements by the opposition regarding the Kumbh Mela, Mahant Ramratan pointed out that it is the opposition's role to criticise government decisions, no matter how beneficial they may be. He remarked that despite the good work being done by Yogi Adityanath and the Modi government, the opposition always criticises them, a part of the political dynamics. Amaravati, Dec 31 : New welfare schemes and development programmes will be launched during 2025, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Tuesday. The Chief Minister greeted all the Telugus on the occasion of the New Year, wishing a happy and healthy life for all in 2025. "Your good Government formed with the historic verdict given by all of you in 2024 will tirelessly work hard to fulfil the hopes of everyone in the state. We have already invented welfare, development and good governance in just a matter of six months besides revising the pension providing an assurance to the future of the poor," Naidu said in his message. Stating that cooking gas cylinders are being supplied to every house, the Chief Minister said that the state government has brought happiness among the farming community by making the payments within 48 hours of procuring the grain. "We are making all the roads in the state pothole-free to make your journey smooth and laid the foundation for providing employment opportunities by again getting investments with the new policies being adopted," he observed. "With the aim of realising the vision of 'Swarna Andhra-2047', we will implement the 10 principles plan and show public welfare and development of the state with the cooperation of all of you. I wish all of you again a happy new year@2025," Naidu said. YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) President and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has extended New Year greetings to the people of the state and to all the Telugu-speaking people the world over. "May the New Year 2025 ring in happiness and provide health and wealth," he said. Jagan Mohan Reddy wished that the New Year bring the blessings of God and happiness to every house in the state. --IANS ms/vd New Delhi, Dec 31 : Pointing to the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Scheme', Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Devender Yadav on Tuesday said that AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has been announcing new schemes every day despite failure to fulfil past promises. New Delhi, Dec 31 (IANS) Pointing to the aPujari Granthi Samman Schemea, Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Devender Yadav on Tuesday said that AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has been announcing new schemes every day despite failure to fulfil past promises. Yadav pointed to a disclaimer by the Delhi government on Kejriwalas promise of Rs 2,100 monthly assistance for women and free health care for the elderly and said now Kejriwal has announced Rs 18,000 a month for pujaris and granthis to mislead them. The Delhi Congress chief said that it was shameful that just as Kejriwal announced the aPujari Granthi Samman Schemea at the AAP office, a protest was launched by the All India Imam Organisation at his residence. The AAP government has not released funds to the Delhi Waqf Board to pay the salaries of imams and maulvis for the last 17 months, said Yadav. He said that Kejriwal has been visiting temples to mislead pujaris with his latest promise by hiding the fact that the old age pension has been stopped, the issuing of new ration cards to the poor has been stopped, there is no free water, the polluted Yamuna has become a stinking, filthy sewer and DTC employees have been agitating for their pending wages. Yadav said that people have become wiser and donat trust the promises of an imposter like Kejriwal any more, as he has been spreading lies in a bid to get their votes. He said the ruling AAP and the BJP have been dividing people on religious lines while the Congress treats all religions equally. Yadav warned that the dangerous vote bank politics of the AAP and the BJP will be a grave threat to the unity and integrity of the country. Earlier, Yadav welcomed AAPas joint secretary from the Badli Assembly Sarbjit Singh, 2020 Assembly election star campaigner Farid Shah, former AAP Councillor from Mustafabad Assembly Parveen and Mohd Maroof, 2020 BSP candidate for the MCD election Rajni Suryavanshi and a large number of workers into the Congress. Yadav said that with the support and cooperation of all those who joined Congress, the party will gain strength and play creative politics to come back to power. Kolkata, Dec 31 : West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Aariz Aftab, retired from services on Tuesday. However, uncertainty prevails over his successor since the West Bengal government has yet to suggest a panel of names from among the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers of the state cadre to the Election Commission of India (ECI). As per rules, the commission will therefore select one name from the panel of IAS officers forwarded to it by the state government. Sources aware of the development said that it is quite an unprecedented affair that no panel has been forwarded to the commission before the retirement or replacement of the sitting CEO in the state. It is up to the commission whether they will wait for some time for the state government to send the panel of IAS officers or immediately ask state Chief Secretary Manoj Pant to immediately act on the matter. Aftab, a 1991 batch IAS officer of the West Bengal cadre, had been one of the longest-serving CEOs in West Bengal, having taken over in February 2017. Under his supervision, the state witnessed three major elections, namely the Lok Sabha elections in 2019 and 2024 and the state Assembly elections in 2024. His tenure as the CEO had been more or less free of controversies. In fact, before the general elections earlier this year, his role was highly appreciated as he reportedly cautioned the District Magistrates, district Superintendents of Police and the Police Commissioners that he would not tolerate deterioration of law & order anywhere in the state at any cost. However, there were initial controversies over his appointment. The first two panels sent by the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government then were rejected by the commission. Aftabas name was picked up by the commission from the third panel. Mahakumbh Nagar, Dec 31 : In a conversation with IANS on Tuesday, Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati, president of Anand Akhada, shared his views on various issues, including the 'Shahi Snan' controversy, Sanatan Dharma, Kumbh Mela, and more. Regarding the ongoing debate over the term "Shahi Snan", Mahant Shankaranand said, "If there is any objection to the term 'Shahi Snan' for Mahakumbh, I believe that when kings and emperors used it with respect, it was appropriate. However, if people have issues with the term, 'Amrit Snan' is also fine. There is no harm in using any word that is connected to our culture." Supporting Mohan Bhagwat's statement, Mahant Shankaranand said that he holds Bhagwat in high regard but further added that "any decision should be made only after understanding the full context and details of his statement". He advised "against engaging in any political bias when discussing this matter." On whether Sanatan Dharma is under threat, Mahant Shankaranand stated, "Sanatan Dharma can never be in danger. Whenever any crisis arises, an avatar appears to protect it." He also shared his views on the presence of Muslim shopkeepers and government officials at Kumbh Mela, stating that he has no issues with Muslims but stressed the need for some restrictions to maintain the sanctity of the event. "We must maintain purity; if someone's actions do not align with our religious beliefs, we try to protect our sanctity," he added. Regarding the purpose of the Dharma Sansad at Kumbh, Mahant Shankaranand explained, "The event is meant to discuss the concept of a Hindu Nation, which is a matter of importance for everyone. It is a religious gathering, and it should not be politicised. Our demand is to protect our religion, culture, and faith." He emphasised the sanctity of the Ganga's water, calling it naturally pure and fit for bathing. However, he stressed the need for solid steps to protect the river. On the topic of politics and religion, Mahant Shankaranand stated that politics should be kept separate from religious events like the Kumbh Mela, and all leaders should be welcomed at such events. Regarding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's announcement to give 18,000 rupees to priests and pundits, Mahant Shankaranand dismissed it as a political promise. "Such alluring promises in politics should not be trusted," he said. Commenting on the financial assistance of 5 lakh rupees given by Akhilesh Yadav to the families of victims in the Sambhal violence, Mahant Shankaranand dubbed it as a politically motivated move. "Such actions promote vote bank politics rather than secularism," he said. On the question of the Hindu Nation resolution at Kumbh, Mahant Shankaranand stated, "This is in the hands of the government. It is only a demand, and the government can pass it whenever they choose." Hyderabad, Dec 31 : Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) announced on Tuesday that it will operate 6,432 special buses from Hyderabad to various destinations in both the Telugu states for Sankranti. TGSRTC officials said a reservation facility would be available for 557 services. They are also planning to operate electric buses on a few routes. The state-owned transport corporation has made elaborate arrangements to enable passengers to reach their destinations for Sankranti. In 2024, the TGSRTC had decided to operate 4,484 buses but in view of the huge rush of passengers, it actually operated 5,246 buses. Keeping in mind the experience of previous Sankranti, it has decided to operate 6,432 buses. The special buses will be operated from January 9 to January 15. The special buses will be operated from different points in Hyderabad including MGBS, JBS, Central Bus Station, Aramghar, KPHB, Bowenpalli, Gachibowli, Uppal X Roads and LB Nagar X Roads. Special officers have been appointed to arrange special buses from different points in the city depending on the rush. The TGSRTC will be operating special buses to neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. The buses will be operated mainly to towns like Amalapuram, Kakinada, Kandukur, Narsapuram, Polavaram, Rajahmundry, Rajole, Udayagiri, Visakhapatnam, Nellore, Ongole, Guntur, Vijayawada, Srisailam and Tirupati. Buses will also be arranged from various places in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for those returning to Hyderabad after the festival. The TGSRTC authorities are planning to run electric buses from Karimnagar, Nizamabad and Warangal. As bus operation during Sankranti is crucial for TGSRTC, the management has asked field-level officials to fully gear up. The authorities will be arranging pandals, tents, chairs, public address system, drinking water, mobile toilets and other facilities at various embarkation points in Hyderabad. The TGSRTC has announced that under the state governmentas Mahalakshmi scheme, women will be provided free travel facilities in Palle Velugu, Express, City Ordinary and Metro Express buses. Women passengers will have to collect zero tickets. The TGSRTC management has advised passengers to avoid risky journeys in private vehicles and avail the facility of the special buses of TGSRTC to safely reach their destinations. Passengers may reserve their tickets for the special buses on the website www.tgsrtcbus.in. They can get details about the special buses from call centre numbers 040-69440000, 040-23450033. Every year, thousands of people from Hyderabad and its suburbs travel to their home towns and villages in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for Sankranti, which is a major festival in both states. Imphal, Dec 31 : The Manipur government would provide collateral-free loans up to Rs 50,000 to the ethnic violence displaced people under the Chief Minister's Entrepreneurship Support Scheme (CMESS), Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced here on Tuesday. The Chief Minister said that the government has already provided loans under the scheme to around 426 displaced people to support their entrepreneurial activities. He also urged the people to apply for financial assistance under the scheme. Addressing the media, he said that startups in the state, funded by the state government and running successfully, would employ violence-affected displaced people and seven of them have been identified and are ready to employ 432 displaced people. "Under the One Family One Livelihood" scheme, loans up to Rs 10 lakh with a 30 per cent subsidy shall be provided to the targeted 5,000 beneficiaries," he said, adding that so far, 745 have been shortlisted and 9 have been provided loans for support. He encouraged youths to apply and get benefits under the Scheme. The Chief Minister said that with the government's endless efforts, a total of 2,058 displaced families (7,549 persons) have been able to return to their original place of residence. He stated that the government has released Rs 30 crore for the distribution of Rs 1,000 per person for the people taking shelter in relief camps and five instalments have been completed so far. For relief camp operations, a total of Rs 280 crore has been released so far, the Chief Minister said adding that the government also granted a compensatory package of Rs 32 crore for the affected farmers. Weekly medical checkups are done in all the relief camps and 18,911 visits have been made so far and provide essential drugs for the inmates. Biren Singh said that students in the relief camps have been provided free admission to government schools and colleges, while for those studying in private schools, the government has provided 50 per cent of the expenses. Under the support for employment and livelihood programmes, the government has given priority to the inmates staying at the relief camps as they could not find suitable work to support their livelihood, he stated. The state government has set up 302 relief camps in different districts to provide shelter to over 59,000 violence-affected men, women and children. Manipur Chief Minister said that the Aadhaar-linked Birth Registration would be launched in three districts of the state soon. The newborn Aadhaar would be generated linking it to the mother's Aadhaar numbers. The child's Aadhaar would be updated every five years and this would enable the government to capture children's data from birth, provide accurate demographic data and easy access to Government Schemes. This activity shall help the state, in the long term, to protect the indigenous population. Singh said that around Rs 70 crore have been sanctioned for the construction of a 60-bed state Mental Hospital under PM DevINE and work has been started. A sum of Rs 104 crore has been sanctioned for the Super Speciality Healthcare (Infrastructure and Equipment) project in five district hospitals -- Ukhrul, Chandel, Tamenglong, Senapati, and Jiribam. Under the Chief Minister's Teachers Achievement Award, awards will be given yearly to a maximum of 50 primary teachers, 30 graduate teachers and 25 lecturers. Biren Singh said that under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the government is providing rooftop solar for residential homes at subsidised rates, and encouraged the people to register and apply on the portal to get the benefits of the scheme. On confirming that Ukhrul does not have any properly functioning de-addiction centre, the government will construct a rehabilitation centre in the district, he added. The Chief Minister said that the Plantation of Oil Palm would be expanded to about 9000 Ha in Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Jiribam districts. He also announced that five cold storage units will be set up with a project cost of Rs 10 crore in the state. Bhopal, Dec 31 : A 19-year-old girl was allegedly dragged into a forest and gang-raped in Madhya Pradesh's Singrauli district, police said on Tuesday. The incident occurred at a village surrounded by dense forest area under Jiyawan police station, around 35 km from district headquarters Singrauli on Monday evening. The incident came to light after the victim along with her parents reached Jiyawan police station and lodged a complaint on Tuesday. According to police, the victim said that, when she along with one of her male friends was returning home on Monday evening, a group of men cornered them on the way. The accused persons beat up her male friend and chased him away. After that, they overpowered the girl and dragged her into the forest. Two of the accused took turns raping her, while the others fled the scene. Her male friend, who had been assaulted and sent away, informed the survivor's family. They rushed to the location but arrived after the accused had left. Later, the victim reached her home and narrated the incident to her parents, following which, they approached the police and lodged an FIR. Police said after receiving the complaint, the victim was taken for a medical test, which confirmed rape. Subsequently, multiple teams were deployed to search the accused persons. "All six persons have been arrested and have been booked under the relevant charges and investigations are underway," Singrauli Additional SP Shivkumar Verma said. Arrested persons have been identified as Sugreev Rawat, Vakar Rawat, Rajesh Rawat, Dinesh Rawat, Sunil Rawat and Sanjay Rawat. They all are residents of the Akori village of Singrauli. Itanagar, Dec 31 : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday announced that a university-level institute would be established in the state in collaboration with the US-based International Centre for Cultural Studies (ICCS) for promotion, documentation, research and education on indigenous culture, faith and languages of the state. The ICCS already has a centre in Arunachal Pradesh called RIWATCH at Roing in Lower Dibang Valley to document, preserve, promote and do research on Idu Mishmi culture and language. Khandu had an exclusive meeting with ICCS Founder Prof Yashwant Pathak here on the sidelines of the Silver Jubilee Celebrations of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP). After dedicating a Donyi Polo Nyedar Namlo to the people here at Pachin Colony on the occasion of Donyi Polo Day, the Chief Minister said that the idea stemmed during his discussion with Prof Pathak to further boost the indigenous culture movement and put the significance of preserving indigenous culture and faith of the state on a global platform. "Let there be research and documentation of our indigenous faiths and culture at the highest level. Let us produce scholars on indigenous culture and languages. Let our indigenous priests adorn the professor's gown and teach young minds about the age-old chants," he said. While admitting that the proposal is in its nascent form and much work lies ahead, Khandu expressed optimism that with cooperation from ICCS, it would be realised in the coming years. "If it comes up, it would be a huge boost to our movement to preserve our indigenous culture, faith and languages and thus preserve our identity. When a research centre of much smaller scale- RIWATCH can do wonders, think what a university can do," he added. Extending greetings to the people of the Donyi Polo faith, Khandu urged them to 'practice what they preach'. He said that only speaking about Donyi Polo and its significance won't bear fruits but actually practicing Donyi Polo faith in everyday life would. He underscored the role that the IFCSAP can play in the preservation of indigenous culture of the state and suggested that under its leadership brainstorming sessions be held with all stakeholders to find out the basic reasons for the erosion of indigenous culture and faiths in the state. "Unless we realise and pinpoint the causes of cultural erosion, we will not be successful in preserving our culture and faith in the long run. IFCSAP should take the responsibility to find out the causes," he observed. When drawn attention to the fact that earlier December 31 (Donyi Polo Day) used to be a holiday but not now, Khandu assured that there is no 'ill-intention' of the government in doing so. In fact, he informed December 31 was earlier celebrated as IFCSAP Day, which was declared a holiday by the state government. "However, as the IFCSAP Day was fixed on December 1 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Late TalomRukbo, considered the father of the indigenous faith movement in the state, the holiday too got shifted. I assure you all that from December 31, 2025, the Donyi Polo Day will be a declared local holiday in the areas inhabited by Donyi Polo believers," Khandu added. Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 : The Odisha Vigilance Department arrested 181 government officials on the allegations of corruption in the state in 2024. This was revealed on Tuesday by the vigilance department in its annual report card for 2024 highlighting significant actions taken against government and private persons engaged in corrupt activities. As per the report, the anti-corruption sleuths arrested 181 corrupt government officials including 37 class-I, 27 class-II and 85 class-III employees in 2024. As many as 21 private persons involved in corrupt practices were also apprehended during this period. The vigilance department also registered 200 cases against 308 persons including 50 Class-I officers, 36 Class-II officers, 131 Class-III employees and 72 private persons, etc in 2024. "Out of 200 cases registered in 2024, 60 cases were instituted for the acquisition of disproportionate assets against 66 public servants and 36 private persons. The total disproportionate assets in all the 60 cases crossed over Rs 131 crore. 29 DA cases were registered against Class-I officers and 15 DA cases were registered against Class-II officers," revealed the vigilance department in its report. As many as six Chief Engineer rank officers were booked by Odisha Vigilance for possession of huge disproportionate assets in 2024. The anti-corruption sleuths also unearthed 229 plots and 32 buildings/ flats in Bhubaneswar and district headquarters and outside Odisha during raids against corrupt government officials during this period. The vigilance department also registered 96 trap cases against a total of 115 persons including 13 Class-I officers, for accepting bribes amounting to Rs 19.25 lakh during 2024. As many as 44 cases were registered in 2024 against 91 persons, including 65 public servants and 26 private persons, on the charges of misappropriating public funds amounting to about Rs 14.87 crore. "As far as prosecution is concerned, we had 105 convictions in 2024 at 50 per cent conviction rate. Further, conviction in DA cases stood at 80 per cent. Of the 105 convictions, 18 were Class-I officers, 18 Class-II officers, 74 Class-III employees, six Class-IV employees, 16 other public servants and 15 private persons. Thus, altogether 147 accused persons were convicted during the period," added the vigilance department. As many as 25 government officials were dismissed from services in 2024 after the court found them guilty of engaging in various corrupt practices. Bhopal, Jan 1 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that his government has decided to resolve the issues of defunct mill workers to provide them with their pending salaries. The Chief Minister said that mill workers would receive their pending dues with all interest from the day they were enrolled in the mills, which are now defunct. He added that the state government has already begun the process of resolving the dispute between the workers and mill owners. "Our government is trying its best to resolve the issues of defunct mills and provide all pending dues of workers. The issues of three defunct mills have already been resolved and the initiative for others will also be taken," CM Yadav said during an event in Ujjain on Monday. The Chief Minister also said the issue of defunct Jiyajirao Cotton Mills (JC Mills) in Gwalior will be resolved soon and more than 8,000 workers will provide their pending dues along with interest. After an inspection visit of the JC Mills in Gwalior last month, Chief Minister Yadav had said that the state government will approach the High Court to provide justice to more than 8,000 workers of JC Mill, which is lying closed from the last 30 to 40 years. Earlier in December 2023, the state government had approved an amount of Rs 464 crore for workers of Hukumchand Mills in Indore. The fund was allocated following the directions of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Hukumchand Mill, one of the largest mills in Indore, was closed by its management in 1991 without any prior notice. At that time, about 6,000 workers worked in the mill. These workers fought a long struggle for their outstanding salaries, gratuity, and other liabilities. In the last 33 years, more than 2,000 out of 6,000 workers of the mill have died and the families of many of them are continuing their fight. Kolkata, Jan 1 : The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday, addressed a public meeting at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal defying the last-minute denial of police permission for the same earlier in the day. The rally by Adhikari is being viewed as a counter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's similar public meeting at the same place on Monday, the first such by her since the protest by local people there, especially women, flared up earlier this year against sexual harassment and illegal land grabbing by the local and now-suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates. Speaking at the meeting Adhikari drew a comparison between Mamata Banerjee and the chief of the caretaker government in neighbouring Bangladesh Muhammad Yunus. "On the other side there is Muhammad Yunus and on this side, there is Mamata Banerjee," he said. Speaking on the occasion, Adhikari, specifically stressed on the unity of Hindu voters against Trinamool Congress and in favour of BJP in the crucial state Assembly elections in 2026. On this matter, he drew the example of how the unity of Hindu voters ensured the victory of BJP candidates in the Lok Sabha elections this year from Tamluk and Kanthi, the two Lok Sabha constituencies in his native district of East Midnapore. Speaking on the occasion, the BJP leader also highlighted the financial bankruptcy West Bengal is reportedly heading towards because of the alleged financial mismanagement by the current Trinamool Congress-ruled state government. "During the previous financial year, the per capita debt in West Bengal was Rs 20,000, which has now increased to over 55,000. The manner in which the Chief Minister spoke here on Monday made it seem that she was speaking more like a leader of the opposition than the Chief Minister," said Adhikari. On Monday while addressing a meeting at Sandeshkhali, the Chief Minister hinted at the "money game" influencing that movement. "There was a 'money game' at Sandeshkhali. The people were misled. But lies do not persist for long. So I request all of you to remain united. Do not fall in the trap of mischievous people. I request women to go anywhere if you are called by anyone," the Chief Minister said on Monday at Sandeshkhali. Jaipur, Jan 1 : The protests against Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma-led BJP government's decision to abolish nine districts in Rajasthan continued unabated on Tuesday. Congress as well as BJP workers along with other organisations and local residents, issued warnings of intensified agitation if the districts are not reinstated. In Neem Ka Thana, members of the Zilla Bachao Sangharsh Samiti have started an indefinite hunger strike in front of the District Collectorate. Youth protesters expressed their opposition to the BJP government's decision by burning tyres at the Khetri Mod. Mamta Saini, President of BJP Rural mandal women's wing in Chanwara, expressed her dissent by resigning and submitting her resignation to party's District President Banwari Lal Saini. Praveen Jakhar, leading the hunger strike at the Collectorate in Neem Ka Thana, asserted, "The strike will persist until the government reinstates Neem Ka Thana district." He accused political interference of being the reason for Neem Ka Thana's removal, despite it meeting the criteria to remain a district. The demand to grant Neem Ka Thana district status has been ongoing since 1952. Meanwhile, youth protesters at Khetri raised slogans against the BJP government while burning tyres. A meeting is being organised at the Jat hostel to strategise the movement further, during which an 11-member committee will be formed to oversee the protest. Protests are expected to continue as the Jat community rallies for the restoration of Neem Ka Thana and the other abolished districts. The Anupgarh Zila Bachao Sangharsh Samiti also began an indefinite dharna (protest) on Tuesday, with a large number of its members camping in front of the District Collectorate to protest. In Sanchore, on the second day of the protest, the Zila Bachao Sangharsh Samiti and Congress workers organised a foot march, raising slogans against the state government. They also submitted a memorandum to Sub-Divisional District Magistrate Pramod Kumar, demanding that the district remain unchanged. Chief Whip of the BJP Legislative Party, Jogeshwar Garg, criticised the state government's decision to abolish the district. He said that the creation of districts requires careful deliberation and noted that longstanding demands for districts like Balotra, Phalodi, Beawar, Kotputli, and Didwana were reasonable. However, he alleged that several districts were created under political pressure without proper justification, citing Sanchore as an example. Garg described the decision as "childish" and a mockery of the administrative process. Louisiana librarian and freedom to read advocate Amanda Jones is ending 2024 with a major legal victory. On December 27, the Louisiana Supreme Court ruled that Joness 2022 defamation case against two local men who accused her of pushing pornography to children can continue. In a 4-2 ruling, the court found that an appeals court erred in denying Joness appeal based on an apparently missed deadline. The closely watched case began in July 2022 after Jones, a school librarian, spoke up against a bid to pull a number of mostly LGBTQ-themed books from her hometown public library in Livingston Parish, La. In response, she was attacked online by two men who accused her of grooming children and fighting to make pornography available to kids. Jones then fought back by filing a defamation suit against two men who publicly accused her online. In a setback, Judge Erika Sledge of Louisianas 21st Judicial District Court dismissed the case in September 2022 before arguments ever reached a jury, holding that Jones was a limited public figurea designation that raises the bar for proving defamationand finding that the statements against Jones did not rise to the level of defamation. Sledge reaffirmed her decision in November 2022. And in January 2024, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeals denied Joness appeal on a technicality, finding that she had missed the deadline to file her appeal. But in a major reversal, the Louisiana Supreme Court in its December 27 ruling remanded the case back to the appeals court with an order to hear the case on the merits. And in more good news for Jones, one of the justices filed a concurrence setting out a straightforward read on the case. Acknowledging that Joness case contains "some very specific allegations," Justice Jefferson D. Hughes III said that the burden at trial now rests squarely with the defendants. "Defendants have publicly stated that plaintiff, 'promot[ed] pornography and erotic contents [sic] to kids and advocat[ed] teaching anal sex to 11 year-olds,' " Hughes wrote. "If plaintiff did not do these acts, she cannot prove a negative. The burden will be on defendants to prove that plaintiff did in fact do the acts they have publicly accused her of. If defendants can prove that plaintiff did the things they claim, then the truth is a defense. If they cannot, they have defamed the plaintiff." Notably, Jones is not seeking significant damages in the casejust $1 and an apology. "This is not about revenge, or monetary gain, but about standing up for what is right," Jones explained in a July 2024 post on her website. "We teach our children to report and speak out against bullying, and that is what I am doing. I am doing this on behalf of myself, and on behalf of the countless other librarians across the country who have been targeted and harassed simply for standing up for intellectual freedom and standing up for our school and public libraries." The burden will be on defendants to prove that plaintiff did in fact do the acts they have publicly accused her of. Meanwhile, in late November, Jones filed another defamation lawsuit, this time in federal court against a New Jersey man, Dan Kleinman, who authors a blog called Safe Libraries. In a November 26 complaint, Jones accused Kleinman of defamation and false light for accusing Jones of pushing pornography and sexualizing children. "There is perhaps no statement more injurious to an elementary educator than that they 'sexualize' children," reads the complaint, which includes numerous examples from Kleinmans blog and social media posts. In a post on her website, Jones explained what motivated the suit against Kleinman. "He has emailed my place of work, he has emailed me, he has traveled to Louisiana on the invitation of my local haters, he tags my legislators and school in his false posts, and he frightens me," Jones wrote. "I should not have to live like thisworried about the next lie and attempt to tarnish my name, worried about him continuing to show up to events I am at, or worried for the safety of myself and my family." Jones, School Library Journals 2021 Co-Librarian of the Year, was was awarded the John Phillip Immroth Memorial Award by the ALA in 2023, which honors those who show personal courage in defending intellectual freedom. And in August, Bloomsbury published her memoir That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America, which tells the personal story of her fight for the freedom to read, and against the men who targeted her. The Severn Valley Railway is making preparations for one of the highlights of its 60th anniversary year the Spring Steam Gala. Taking place from Friday, 18th to Monday, 21st April, the Spring Steam Gala will feature locomotives from the railways home fleet as well as several guest locomotives. The first guest locomotive to be announced is London, Midland & Scottish Railway Jubilee Class 4-6-0 No. 45596 Bahamas, which is attending the gala thanks to the Bahamas (LMS) Locomotive Society. Tickets for the gala allows visitors to travel on as many trains as they like and spend time viewing the exhibits in The Engine House at Highley. Working services alongside 45596 Bahamas will be the following locomotives from the home fleet: GWR Autotank, 1450, which the railway hopes will be fully painted in time for the gala. GWR Hall, 4930 Hagley Hall GWR Pannier Tank, 7714 GWR Manor, 7802 Bradley Manor GWR Manor, 7812 Erlestoke Manor LMS Mogul, 13268 BR Standard, 75069 Bradley Manor has recently undergone a major overhaul, so this will be a welcome return to service where it will star alongside classmate 7812 Erlestoke Manor. Arley Station, Severn Valley Railway // Credit: Severn Valley Railway As well as the locomotives themselves, the variety of services will include: Double-headed trains; Freight trains; Local passenger services, with trains stopping at the recently re-opened Eardington station; Early morning and late evening services. Full details of the weekend are still in the planning stage, and the railway will release further details as they become known. Further information about the gala is at https://svr.co.uk/event/spring-steam-gala-2025/ Alongside other heritage railways and the national railway network, the Severn Valley Railway is taking part in a nationwide whistle off at noon on Wednesday, 1st January to celebrate the start of Railway 200 celebrations. Six pages into his latest contribution to the literature of recovery, William Cope Moyers tells us that the "tried and true routes to recovery" failed him in his battle against a slip into opioid addiction. The venerable combination of meetings, the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and abstinence that has helped millions of people did not work for him. It's the first indication of the painful story that Moyers tells in "Broken Open," a deeply troubling volume issued by Hazelden Publishing in September. As he describes a relapse that lasted more than three years and a Suboxone-based recovery, Moyers tries to redefine recovery, sobriety, and even the determination of a sobriety date. His new definitions are an attempt to justify his continuing work as the face and voice of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation (HBFF) while in the throes of his addiction to opioids. In the middle of his relapse, he spoke about recovery from the pulpit of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. A year later in front of another throng at the base of the Washington Monument, he shared the platform with Stephen Tyler of Aerosmith, Joe Walsh of the Eagles, and Sheryl Crow, and he writes, felt "like a recovery rock star." Basking in what Moyers describes as "rolling waves of applause," he writes that he was able "to confidently share my passionate rhetoric in front of a huge crowd. . . but I wasn't whole." No, he certainly was not whole. He was in a continuous search for doctors and dentists from whom he could "score" more pills. Moyers describes his continuing search for providers who would prescribe opioids. He finally connected with an "addiction doc" named David Frenz whose website proclaims, "Don't Let Addiction Treatment Mess Up Your Life." Although Frenz is board certified in addiction medicine, he is skeptical of AA and the Twelve Steps, describing them as "an off-the shelf treatment" and suggesting that there is among alcoholics "a high rate of spontaneous remission." Frenz tells Moyers that "AA was the wrong tool" for his addiction and recommended Suboxone. It worked instantly, Moyers writes. He quickly found that his "secret, frustrating and tangled struggle with opioids was suddenly over." He realized that he had "an exciting new message to carry" and decided to try it out at the monthly "Awareness Hour" at the Betty Ford Center. He writes that he was "buoyed by the miraculous way Suboxone had returned me to my life" and would explain it all to an audience that would include senior leadership and trustees of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. He was confident that this speech would be "memorable and would be talked about for years." The speech was a disaster. HBFF officials and others felt blindsided by Moyers' revelation of his addiction and the solution he claims to have discovered. Members of the audience began to realize that for three years, Moyers had been "preaching what I was not practicing. . . talking the talk without walking the walk." Instead of telling his superiors about his use of pain pills and Suboxone at the time he was using or as he began the course of Suboxone, he made a grand and public gesture in this speech attempting to sweep away the unsavory details of the last few years. Moyers and Hazelden Publishing made the same mistake in this book. Its details on the nature and extent of Moyers's relapse came as a shock to his immediate superior at Hazelden at the time (Nick Motu) and to the organizations CEO (Mark Mishek). As they read the book, both executives and others at HBFF were surprised by the revelation of the lengthy slip and the fact that Moyers had never reported it to anyone at HBFF at the time. Moyers concedes that "admitting to everyone at Hazelden that I was addicted to painkillers . . . was too humiliating to even contemplate . . . and I might lose my job." He's almost right. There is no doubt that if HBFF management had been alerted to the relapse, it would have suspended him and told him to return when he had been clean and sober for a year. If they knew of his relapse, HBFF clinicians and physicians would have told Moyers that the answer to his addiction was the organization's COR-12 program, a synergistic combination of the Twelve Steps and Suboxone instead of the sole reliance on Suboxone that Moyers learned from Frenz, the addiction doctor. It is not often that a review of a book suggests that it should not have been published. But a patient who makes it to page six will learn that the "tried and true routes to recovery" they are learning in their treatment failed to help this addicted author. Lester Munson was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation from 2011 to 2022 and its chairman from 2019 to 2022. He is a recovering alcoholic with 41 years of sobriety. Now retired, he worked for 32 years as a writer and investigative reporter for Sports Illustrated and then ESPN. Kazakhstan is a land of breathtaking contrasts that present unparalleled natural beauty in the rugged peaks of the Tian Shan mountains and vast, windswept grasslands of the Great Steppe. Its people are both deeply rooted in tradition and forward-looking, embodying a blend of resilience and innovation. In some regions, unforgiving Kazakhstan winters push temperatures below minus 40C. Such conditions make coal a lifeline that keeps homes warm and industries running. Kazakhstans reliance on coal is deeply entrenched, and for good reason. The country possesses some of the largest coal reserves in the world an estimated 25 billion tons. Coal-fired power plants account for nearly 70% of Kazakhstans electricity generation, a figure that underscores its pivotal role in the nations energy matrix. Intermittent energy sources like wind and solar promoted as a response to a fabricated climate crisis simply cannot meet the demand for electricity. Winter is particularly challenging as solar panels are idled under thick snow and wind turbines falter in icy conditions. Coal, on the other hand, is a steady, reliable source of heat and power that ensures Kazakh families endure the cold and critical infrastructure remains operational. Kazakhs Nuclear Future As the worlds largest producer of uranium and a participant in nuclear research, Kazakhstan has both the raw materials and the expertise to develop a robust nuclear power sector. Nuclear power offers a viable alternative to Kazakhstans energy needs. In a 2024 referendum, 73% of Kazakh people voted in favor of nuclear energy. Unlike wind and solar, nuclear performs in any kind of weather. Modern nuclear reactors are designed with enhanced safety features and smaller footprints and would readily integrate into Kazakhstans energy grid. The country is committed to constructing effective and sustainable energy sources to meet electricity needs for households and the rapidly developing industrial sector, says Erlan Batyrbekov, director general of Kazakhstans National Nuclear Center one of Central Asias largest research organizations. The countrys interest in nuclear energy has attracted international attention. China has already set up a uranium processing plant. Kazakhstans choices for vendors of nuclear reactors include those from France, South Korea, Russia and China. Both Russia and China have shown renewed interest on construction of nuclear power plants in the country. But Kazakhstan is the U.S.s lead partner in nuclear cooperation in Central Asia. Gavin Helf, an expert on Central Asia, says, It is in the interest of the West and the United States to help Kazakhstan shape its nuclear options to prevent a Russian or Chinese monopolization of Kazakhstans uranium resources. Regardless of where Kazakhstans allegiance lies, the country must construct power plants to utilize its reserves of uranium. However, building nuclear plants requires significant up-front investment of capital and time. Until there is a large-scale deployment of the technology, the country cannot afford to replace coals share in power generation with unreliable wind and solar despite political pressures to the contrary. In addition to coal, oil and natural gas have helped to transform the Kazakhstan economy. Kazakhstan is a leading exporter of crude oil, with major fields like Tengiz, Kashagan, and Karachaganak driving production. Oil exports account for nearly 30% of the countrys gross domestic product (GDP) and 75% of export commodities, underscoring their importance as an economic engine. Since gaining independence in 1991, the country's GDP has grown tenfold to over $260 billion, with hydrocarbon production playing a pivotal role. Oil exports from Kazakhstan are set to increase as Turkey has emerged as a safe and convenient new route, bypassing a complex Russian route. This fossil fuel wealth has enabled Kazakhstan to invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, significantly improving living standards over the past three decades. It is for this reason that Kazakhstan must continue to invest in the development of fossil fuels and to rely on them for the lions share of primary energy consumption. Kazakhstans energy future resides in fossil fuels, especially coal, at least until nuclear power is more fully developed and probably beyond. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate Shaeeda Sween / Instagram By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 12/31/2024 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. couple Shaeeda Sween and Bilal Hazziez have welcomed their first child into the world after two heartbreaking miscarriages.After two days of labor, Shaeeda gave birth to a rainbow baby, a son named Ayaan, on December 14, 2024 at 10:40PM."Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude and love as we embrace this new chapter of parenthood. Welcome to the world, Baby Ayaan!" the couple wrote in an Instagram statement alongside a sweet family photo in their home.In the family's first portrait, Bilal, 46, was wearing a white sweater with blue jeans, while Shaeeda, 40, was wearing all white with a purple head scarf.The new parents were holding their sweet newborn on the couch and were all smiles.Bilal and Shaeeda announced they were expecting a baby boy in October."Counting down the days until we meet our little miracle!" the pair shared at the time."After two heartbreaking losses, we're beyond grateful to finally be welcoming our baby boy before the year ends. Thank you to everyone who has lifted us up with your love, prayers, and kind words -- your support has carried us through."Shaeeda experienced two miscarriages before getting pregnant with Ayaan."Happy Birthday to my lovely wife! Celebrating you and our new bundle of joy coming soon!!" Bilal wrote via Instagram in August."This year, you've given us the most precious gift of all -- our little one on the way. After experiencing two miscarriages we are beyond excited for our new addition to the family. As we prepare to welcome our child, I am filled with awe at the thought of our family growing and sharing our love in a new way."Bilal added, "I feel incredibly blessed to walk this journey with you. Thank you for being the heart of our home and the light of my life. Here's to celebrating you today and every day, and to the beautiful adventure that lies ahead."The couple publicly announced one of the miscarriages in February 2023."It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of our recent miscarriage," Shaeeda wrote in a lengthy Instagram post shortly after Valentine's Day that year.Shaeeda tagged Bilal in the post and shared, "We had been overjoyed to be expecting our first child together, but unfortunately, it was not meant to be at this time."Along with her caption, Shaeeda uploaded a photo of a positive pregnancy test as well as a picture of her holding hands with Bilal while resting in a hospital bed."We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to all of the family, friends, loved ones and fans who have reached out to us with love and support during this difficult time," Shaeeda continued in her post."Your kind words and gestures have been a source of comfort and strength for us. While we are still grieving and processing this loss, we know that as we plan and as [God] plans, [God] is the best of planners."Shaeeda said that experience strengthened her marriage to Bilal, with whom she starred on 's ninth season followed by : Happily Ever After?'s seventh season on TLC."This experience has brought us closer as husband and wife, and on the bright side, we're thankful to [God] that we can get pregnant," Shaeeda wrote in 2023."We also take solace in knowing that we are not alone. We are grateful for the community of support that surrounds us, and we know that we will continue to lean on each other as we navigate this journey."Shaeeda proceeded to reach out to anyone going through a similar situation."Know that you are not alone. We encourage you to reach out for help and support, and to take all the time you need to heal and process," Shaeeda concluded."Once again, we thank you all for your well wishes and kindness during this time. Your love means the world to us. Thank you from Bilal & Shaeeda."Bilal was a 43-year-old from Kansas City, MO, and Shaeeda was a 37-year-old from Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago when they starred on in Spring 2022.After Shaeeda moved to the United States and married Bilal, she came down with a case of baby fever.Shaeeda was pushing to have a child sooner rather than later due to her age and potential fertility issues she may face, but Bilal -- who welcomed two children in his previous marriage -- had been hoping to enjoy being Shaeeda's husband, get to know her better, and take their time expanding their family.Shaeeda even wrote in the couple's prenuptial agreement how he must be willing to try for a baby with her.On : Happily Ever After? in 2022, Shaeeda gave Bilal an ultimatum that they needed to try for a baby within nine months or she'd leave him.During Part 3 of the series' Tell-All special that aired in January 2023, Shaeeda revealed she and Bilal had tried to conceive "a couple times."When asked what made him change his mind, Bilal explained how he wanted to be with Shaeeda for the rest of his life and it bothered him when Shaeeda became very emotional about the idea she may never become a mother.However, Shaeeda then admitted she had put a stop to having unprotected sex because Bilal had been unwilling to share a bank account with her or discuss their finances. Shaeeda didn't want to have a baby with a man who didn't trust her or take her seriously as a spouse and equal partner.Bilal promised to change and do better for his wife, and then he got down on bended knee in front of their fellow cast members."So I want to ask you," Bilal began. " Would you have my baby ? Will you go half on a baby?"Bilal also gifted Shaeeda a onesie that read, "If you think I'm cute you should see my mommy."Shaeeda cried and said, "Yes." She confirmed Bilal's grand gesture made her want to have a baby with him again."I just hope I'll be able to be a mom and not have to wait too long," Shaeeda said in tears."You'll be an amazing mom," Bilal told his wife.The couple then determined they would start trying right away, while they were still in New York. Shaeeda hugged and kissed her husband, saying this is all she ever wanted.Want more spoilers or couples updates? Click here to visit our homepage! Billionaire Gautam Adani's group on Monday announced its exit from FMCG joint venture Adani Wilmar by selling its entire stake to the Singaporean partner and in the open market for an estimated over $2 billion in a first major deal since the US bribery indictment. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters In a statement, Adani Enterprises Ltd -- which held 43.94 per cent stake in Fortune brand cooking oil, wheat flour and other food product maker Adani Wilmar Ltd -- said it will sell 31.06 per cent stake to Wilmar International. About 13 per cent will be sold in the open market to meet minimum public shareholding requirements. Adani will sell a 31.06 per cent stake to Wilmar for Rs 12,314 crore (share price of no more than Rs 305 apiece). Adding the share sale through OFS, the total proceeds will exceed $2 billion (about Rs 17,100 crore). "With this, AEL (Adani Enterprises Limited) will fully exit Adani Wilmar Ltd," it said. "Adani's nominee directors will step down from the board of Adani Wilmar Ltd." The transaction is expected to conclude before March 31, 2025. Proceeds from the stake sale will be used to turbocharge the growth of AEL in core infrastructure businesses. With this transaction, Adani is back with a bang, removing the liquidity perception overhang. This is the first major transaction post US federal prosecutors in November charge-sheeted founder chairman Gautam Adani and his associates over a $265 million bribery scheme to win renewable energy supply contracts. Adani group has denied the allegations as baseless and said it will seek legal recourse. "Adani Enterprises Ltd, Adani Commodities LLP (a wholly-owned subsidiary of AEL) and Lence Pte Ltd (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wilmar International Ltd) have entered into an agreement on December 30, 2024, pursuant to which Lence will acquire all the paid-up equity shares of Adani Wilmar Ltd held by Adani Commodities as at the date of exercise of the call option or put option, as the case maybe, in respect of a maximum of 31.06 per cent of the existing paid up equity share capital of AWL," the statement said. In addition, "it has been agreed between the parties that AEL will divest a 13 per cent share in Adani Wilmar to achieve compliance with minimum public shareholding requirements," it said without giving details. Adani Wilmar Ltd is an equal joint venture between Adani Group and Singapore-based commodity trader Wilmar. The two partners currently own a combined 87.87 per cent of Adani Wilmar, far above the maximum permissible 75 per cent. Market regulator Sebi rules mandate that large firms must have at least 25 per cent of shares available to the public within three years from listing. Established in 1999, Adani Wilmar makes Fortune brand cooking oil, wheat flour, pulses, rice and sugar. It owns 23 plants across 10 states. "It may be noted that with completion of these two legs, AEL would completely exit its near 44 per cent holding in Adani Wilmar," the statement said. "As of Friday, December 27, 2024, Adani Wilmar had a market capitalisation of Rs 42,785 crore ($5.0 billion)." AEL, in a statement, said it will use "the proceeds from the sale to turbocharge its investments in the core infrastructure platforms in energy and utility, transport and logistics and other adjacencies in the primary industry". It will continue to invest in infrastructure sectors, which will further strengthen its position as India's largest listed incubator of platforms, playing the key macro themes underpinning India's growth story. The funds from the stake sale will strengthen the incubation capacity of AEL, and further sharpen the focus on consumer services under airports and Adani Digital. The transaction demonstrates Adani's disciplined approach to finance - at a portfolio level, Adani Group has about 63 per cent equity deployed as a percentage of overall assets. This will increase further as part of this transaction. Consistent with this, AEL raised $500 million in October. Other group companies also raised money in recent months - $1 billion by Adani Energy Solutions Ltd, $500 million by Ambuja Cement, and $444 million by Adani Green Energy Ltd. Adani Wilmar is an equal joint venture between Adani Enterprises and Wilmar Group, both holding 43.94 per cent stake each as of September 30, 2024. The FMCG firm posted a consolidated total income of Rs 51,555.24 crore during the last fiscal. Its market capitalisation on Monday stood at nearly Rs 42,000 crore (around $5 billion). Adani Wilmar got listed on stock exchanges in February 2022 after raising Rs 3,600 crore through an initial share sale. Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL) was established in January 1999 as a joint venture. Widespread use of crypto assets, including stablecoins, can have a negative impact on the macroeconomic and financial stability of a country, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday. Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Reuters In its Financial Stability Report (FSR), the banking regulator highlighted that excessive use of crypto assets can reduce effectiveness of monetary policy, worsen fiscal risks, circumvent capital flow management measures, divert resources available for financing the real economy and threaten global financial stability. Even though the size of crypto asset markets remains small, their continued growth and increasing linkages with the traditional financial system could pose systemic risks. "Stablecoins also present potential run risks, the RBI said in its report, citing the International Monetary Fund - Financial Stability Board (IMF-FSB) synthesis paper on policies for crypto assets. This comes as prices of virtual digital assets (VDAs), such as bitcoins, have reached new highs this month on account of US President-elect Donald Trumps re-election. Earlier this month, the price of bitcoin breached the $100,000 mark, reaching an all-time high of $108,316 about two weeks later. The surge in the price of bitcoin has more than doubled in 2024 alone. This has led to an increased market capitalisation of stablecoins that enable the lending, borrowing and trading of other digital assets. Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency which is designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to a reserve asset like a fiat currency, including the US dollar. Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT)-based tokenisation can expose several financial stability vulnerabilities, including liquidity and maturity mismatches, leverage, asset price and quality, interconnectedness, and operational fragilities, the RBI said. Tokenisation refers to the process of creating digital representations called tokens. These represent real-world assets such as bank deposits, money market funds shares, repos, and government securities. They are created using DLT. Given that it is still in its infancy, financial stability concerns of tokenisation of assets are currently limited. "Nonetheless, it has the potential to deepen the interconnectedness between the traditional financial system and the decentralised financial (DeFi) system, the RBI highlighted. In India, homegrown crypto majors such as CoinDCX and CoinSwitch have a base of 16 million and 20 million users respectively. In 2025, Indian firms may face higher premiums for fire and engineering insurance covers as reinsurers are likely to revise rates due to rising claims from catastrophic events and higher loss ratios, according to people in the know. Image used for representation purpose only. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters "The impact will be felt more by those who took policies in the May-June period. They will face premium increases of up to 60 per cent, depending on the occupancy. "However, for those renewing their policies in January 2025, the increase will likely be more moderate, in the range of 5-10 per cent with no more discounts available, said Hanmant Dudle, head large account practice (property & construction), Howden Insurance Brokers. According to industry insiders, large corporations in the country shell out anywhere in the range of Rs 5 crore to Rs 250 crore as premiums for fire insurance covers depending on the size and complexity of the operations. In 2024, the country was rocked by multiple natural catastrophes causing major losses to insurers and reinsurers, particularly in Gujarat and Nagpur. This affected the free pricing of insurance premium rates in these lines. In April this year, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) de-notified policy wordings and deductibles in tariffs were notified by the Tariff Advisory Committee. Post the de-notification, the free-pricing era began in May 2024 wherein insurers were no longer bound to follow the prices set by the Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB) and could set their own prices. Previously, the premiums in fire and engineering insurance were based on data collected on impact of the catastrophic events, which then served as a benchmark for pricing. Since de-notification, the premiums in these lines of insurance business have declined by up to 50 per cent in various occupancy segments, leading to higher discounts due to increased competition. However, due to the loss experienced in these lines of business owing to various natural calamities, both insurers and reinsurers are facing pricing pressures. It has also put additional pressure on the combined ratio of insurance companies, industry insiders suggested. We have been seeing quite a fall and very heavy discounting (in fire and engineering lines) as far as premium goes. Now, this leads to a situation where the overall book for an insurer, and importantly the reinsurer, gets into an adverse area. "This is because there are more losses than the premium they are collecting. According to what we hear from insurers, reinsurers are pushing for correction in the pricing. "There is talk about reintroducing the IIB rates, said Deepak Madan, vice-president- special lines commercial lines, large account practices at Prudent Insurance Brokers. Amid the shift back to IIB rates for insurance pricing, the premium rates for large corporations in commercial lines are likely to witness an increase of 1560 per cent. In 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) implemented significant reforms, focusing on cooling down the derivatives segment, enhancing transparency and accountability in small and midsised enterprise (SME) listings, and deepening the fund management ecosystem. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters Sebi also introduced the ambitious same-day settlement cycle, a first in global markets. However, the year was marred by controversy surrounding chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, who faced allegations of conflict of interest. These allegations overshadowed some of Sebis key reform initiatives and somewhat slowed the reform process, experts feel. Amid concerns over widespread losses suffered by small investors, Sebi introduced six measures aimed at curbing the derivatives frenzy. While still in the early stages, following the implementation of some of these measures, trading activity has decreased by more than 30 per cent in the futures and options segment. The move to discontinue weekly expiries in all but two index derivatives was among the measures that hit speculators hard. Another major step taken by the regulator was tightening norms on listing and disclosure for SMEs following several cases of alleged manipulation and fictitious transactions. To ensure only companies with a sound track record raise funds and get listed, Sebi has introduced several checks on the quality of companies exploring this route. Sebi also introduced same-day settlement (T+0) for secondary market trading on an optional basis in March. Although this innovative move aimed to reduce settlement risks and enhance market efficiency, the beta version saw limited adoption, with negligible response from brokers and market participants. To boost participation, Sebi plans to expand eligibility to the top 500 stocks in 2025 while maintaining the optional nature of the mechanism. Similarly, Sebi is also trying to implement a Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based block mechanism for the secondary market. This aims to safeguard client funds but will also impact the float amount lying with brokers. Sebi also directed brokers to charge true-to-label fees, which is expected to upend the low-cost broking model. Sebis initiative to enable the direct payout of securities to clients dematerialised accounts, bypassing brokers pools, failed to gain traction in 2024. Although launched, the facility was rolled back within a day due to technical issues. Sources revealed that market infrastructure institutions (MIIs) are addressing these issues, with an expected update by mid-January. The year also saw the emergence of a new mutual fund asset class, offering diverse strategies and filling the gap between portfolio management services and alternative investment funds. With a minimum investment requirement of Rs 10 lakh, several mutual funds are developing products in this space, awaiting clarity from the Association of Mutual Funds in India before launching. The regulator also cracked down on financial misinformation in 2024, introducing measures to curb manipulation by financial influencers. Key actions include restricting registered entities from associating with unregistered players, aiming to promote transparency and protect investors. The regulator also endeavoured to enhance reforms around ease of doing business and undertake a more transparent consultation process. Just as the year draws to a close, Sebi has announced the codification of the public consultation process for making and amending regulations. "The fact that the rationale for acceptance or non-acceptance will be made public is an excellent aspect to include in the legislative architecture, said Ketan Dalal, managing director of Katalyst Advisors. The year also marked the closure of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) colocation case related to the misuse of trading access points, which had stretched over nine years with several matters in different tribunals and courts. The market regulator disposed of the proceedings against NSE, its former managing director and chief executive officer, and eight others for a highest-ever settlement amount of Rs 643 crore. The controversy highlighted the risks of imbalances in access to critical trading infrastructure and served as a wake-up call for the need to uphold public trust. "These lessons reinforce the ongoing relevance of implementing strong safeguards to maintain a level playing field and protect the integrity of financial systems, said C S Anupriya Saxena, partner of JMJA & Associates. In August, Sebi was rattled first by US-based Hindenburg Research and later by Opposition Congress raising the issue of conflict of interest over the income generated by Puri Buch and her husbands consultancy firm, Agora Advisory. While Puri Buch refuted all the allegations and found support from corporate and the government, the controversy somewhat slowed the reform process. Further, protests by Sebi staff against a toxic work culture also impacted the day-to-day functioning of the regulator. Initially, Sebi blamed external elements for the protests, but it later withdrew its statement. Industry sources say while Sebi will continue to push ahead with several reform measures it has initiated, it may only take up large-scale changes once there is more clarity around the appointment of a new Sebi chief or the extension of the current chiefs term. Puri Buchs three-year tenure is set to end on March 1. 2024 WRAPPED Much drama is likely to continue in the coming year within the Sangh Parivar as well as involving the Opposition parties and, of course, the BJP's allies, predicts Modi biographer Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi and RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat at the pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple, January 22, 2024. All photographs: ANI Photo While interviewing noted French academic Christophe Jaffrelot recently, I asked how he assessed the year that soon slips into history. His reply was that 2024, in Indian history, would be retrospectively looked at as the 'point of inflexion', or the year of shift in politics. This was indeed a year of big changes globally, but we will restrict ourselves to Indian electoral terms. After a decade of single-party majority, the electorate did not deliver an emphatic verdict. Instead, the Bharatiya Janata Party was reduced to a sub-majority tally, forcing Prime Minister Narendra D Modi to helm a truly 'coalition' government; not one which was not a political partnership merely in name, as those formed in 2014 and 2019. Despite claims by Modi of securing a third mandate in succession, limitations of the BJP being rendered to a minority status were immediately evident: After opposition from political adversaries as well as allies, the PM rolled back the move to recruit 45 mid-level bureaucrats through 'lateral entry'. He was also left with no choice but to refer the Waqf Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee of Parliament. The tenure of this committee has also been extended beyond the deadline for it to submit its report, a sign of the government's 'enforced reasonableness'. The situation eased for the BJP and the PM during the Winter session of Parliament, evident in the effortlessness with which the government introduced the legislation on One Nation One Election. But this was only after Modi changed tack and brought up Bills and key decisions for deliberation in the Union Cabinet and secure its clearance(s) consensually, before moving it in Parliament. In contrast to what was witnessed in the weeks immediately after government formation in June, it is relatively not so much a one-man show any longer. It would be naive to assume that after successive electoral victories in Haryana and Maharashtra (in that sequence), the BJP can revert to unilateral decision-making. After all, the party campaign in the two states were noted for the conspicuously below 'normal' presence of Modi in whipping up votes for the party and its candidates. In contrast to what was seen from 2014 onwards when decisions were taken without any consultation, coalition partners will seek time and deliberate if proposals will negatively impact their voter base. For instance, the Janata Dal-United and the Telugu Desam Party are unlikely to back schemes or decisions that may draw the disapproval of religious minorities, especially Muslims, on changes in the waqf law. Furthermore, they are certainly not going to be as enthusiastic as the BJP leadership is, in endorsing Modi's pitch on the Universal Civil Code and his 'no' to Muslim quotas. These points were emphatically made by the PM during his reply to the debate on the Constitution in the Winter session. Partners of the National Democratic Alliance may not have spoken up yet, because Modi just articulated his position and these are not yet 'decisions'. But they will surely speak up if these are formally brought up for parliamentary consideration. IMAGE: Modi and Bhagwat. The 2024 elections will go down in history as the one when the fault line within the Sangh Parivar became visible after two decades; it was last witnessed during the 2004 polls when the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was voted out and a Congress-led government assumed office. The split this time went beyond the divide of 2004. Unlike back then, this time the signs of the schism between the two were evident even though the campaign; formally launched by Modi with the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22. That all not well between the BJP and the RSS (along with the top brass of the two) became evident within weeks of this high voltage event peppered with a massive dose of religio-cultural politics. This indifference of the RSS to the elections, unfortunately for Modi and BJP, coincided with the declining interest in the Ram temple. Quite clearly, the PM failed to foresee that declaring the temple open and opening its portals to the public, for the people, marked the closure of the four-decade long agitation which catapulted the BJP from the periphery to the epicentre of power. To retain its popularity, the party had to rake up other issues or hype up existing narratives, which the BJP failed to do and thus the consequences. Very conspicuously, the omnipresent RSS network of swayamsevaks was not visible in the drive to solicit votes for the BJP candidates by going from one door to another. That this rift was not localised became self-evident when Modi personally began taking recourse to highly communally charged speeches, which has been his home base in successive elections from 2002 onwards, especially when he felt the campaign was floundering. Awkwardness in the Modi-RSS relationship was nothing new and surfaced visibly after he became Gujarat chief minister in 2001. He gave short shrift to the local RSS but its national-level leaders did not try to dislodge him because he delivered on ideological objectives. Moreover, his role in the Gujarat 2002 riots enhanced his popularity and mobilised support for Hindutva. Modi had temperamentally never been in the mould of the organisation's 'ideal' leader. He was egocentric, indulged in self-love including often speaking in the third person, and promoted his personality cult. His consistent adherence to Hindutva-based politics, especially non-economic issues, balanced the negatives. However, the highly personalised campaign in this year's election (Modi Ki Guarantee and Abki Baar 400 Paar -- 'Modi's Guarantee and This Time, Beyond 400) -- proved too much to stomach for the RSS and they decided not to campaign/ Disparagingly, RSS activists replied to queries on their inactivity, 'Well it's Modi's guarantee, so let him secure the numbers.' IMAGE: BJP President J P Nadda with Union Home Minister Amit A Shah and Bhagwat. Instead of reaching out to pacify the RSS, Modi upped the ante and his close aide, J P Nadda, party president, needlessly cocked a snook at the RSS and said that the party was now competent and could do without the Sangh Parivar. Few political statements could have been more self-damaging than this. As a result, Modi failed in his quest to return with a brimming bag of Lok Sabha seats. Clearly delighted at the BJP's shortfall, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat continued with his diatribes. A compromise of sorts began being worked out with Nadda attending the RSS coordination committee meeting at Palakkad, Kerala. This was a clear sign that the BJP still 'needed the RSS' as against Nadda's claim in that interview with the Indian Express Like always, he faithfully reported, at the meeting, the reasons behind the BJP's failure to secure a majority of its own. The RSS returned to campaigning in Haryana with a reported caveat -- that Modi's campaign speeches be limited. But that was not enough for the Nagpur-based brass. In another meeting in October, this time of their national executive, the RSS endorsed the status of Yogi Adityanath as an alternate pole within the BJP. Its general secretary also publicly stated that the RSS had 'taken note' of Nadda's utterances and had 'dealt with it'. The message was clear. In Maharashtra too, Devendra Fadnavis was backed by the RSS leadership. Over the coming year, one can expect many more dramatic moments in the RSS-Modi narrative, including the former's role in selecting the next BJP president. It is important to note that the RSS considers the sangathan or organisation of greater import than the vyakti or individual, which in this case is Modi. Both the RSS and Modi talk of a future and working for a more hegemonic position. The RSS objective is to merge the Sangh into Samaj or society, when the majority begins subscribing to the Hindutva ideology. IMAGE: Bhagwat addresses the Somalwar Education Society foundation day in Nagpur, December 26, 2024. Modi's goal is to transform India into Viksit Bharat and a leader among nations in the world. But while only a miracle will enable him to see and even remain active almost a quarter of a century later, the RSS as an organisation is more likely to sustain itself, especially after sustaining itself for a century. The RSS objective is to minimise the role of the individual in establishing its organisational hegemony. Time will tell if the BJP's victories in Maharashtra and Haryana marks the beginning where the RSS considers that it can secure electoral victories with just two instruments: The sangathan and vichar or vichardhara (idea or ideology). Such a conclusion in the near future will diminish Modi's position, as he can, in the eyes of the RSS brass, be replaced with anyone else. Much drama is likely to continue in the coming year, within the Sangh Parivar, as well as involving the Opposition parties and, of course, the allies of the BJP. These developments may only make 2024 undeniably another inflexion-point in Indian history and politics, quite like 1977, 1989, 1992 and 2014. Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay is an author and journalist based in Delhi-NCR. His latest book is The Demolition, The Verdict and The Temple: The Definitive Book on the Ram Mandir Project. He is also the author of Narendra Modi: The Man, The Times. Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com 'A man who brought about the greatest set of economic reforms in the country, who changed the course of Indian history, cannot be considered weak.' 'A man who fought for nuclear reforms even though his majority in Parliament was threatened, he cannot be considered weak.' IMAGE: Dr Manmohan Singh pays tribute to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 130th birth anniversary, November 14, 2019. Photograph: ANI Photo What is the legacy left behind by Dr Manmohan Singh, one of the most under-rated prime ministers of India? How will India of the present and future remember him? Remembering Dr Singh is K M Chandrasekhar, who worked closely with him from 2007 to 2011 as Cabinet secretary when Dr Singh was prime minister. "Posterity will regard him as the maker of modern India. If we are today a global power, it is mainly due to the decisions he took in diverse spheres," Mr Chandrasekhar tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier. You worked closely with Dr Manmohan Singh for many years. Do you remember your first meeting with him? My first meeting with him was in Trivandrum in 1994 when I was Kerala's finance secretary and he was the central finance minister. At that time, he appeared stiff and formal to me, an impression that was entirely belied even while I was still in Kerala. You were Cabinet secretary from 2007 to 2011. How were your interactions with him when he was prime minister? My interactions with him were friendly, at the same time business-like. As he had good knowledge of all that was going on in the country in diverse areas, I had to prepare myself carefully for each of my weekly meetings. Did he appear to be more of an economist than a politician? If you mean, was he pedantic in his approach to issues, no. Manmohan Singh was a political economist and had wide knowledge of the country and of global developments. Did you get the feeling that he was a 'weak' prime minister like the Opposition painted him out to be? Well, a man who brought about the greatest set of economic reforms in the country, who changed the course of Indian history, cannot be considered weak. A man who fought for nuclear reforms even though his majority in Parliament was threatened, he cannot be considered weak. Strength does not mean throwing your weight about, boasting endlessly and treating political opponents and well-meaning bureaucrats and media persons as enemies to be trampled upon and crushed. A prime minister in a democracy cannot be a tyrant to prove 'strength'. What difference did you see in him as the PM of UPA1 and then of UPA2? I was with him only in the last two years of UPA 1 and the first two years of UPA 2. I felt he seemed a bit tired, a bit uncertain in UPA 2. The confidence with which he handled issues in UPA 1 was missing in UPA 2. IMAGE: Then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh with then US president Barack Obama on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Nusa Dua, Bali, November 18, 2011. Photograph: Jason Reed/Reuters Though UPA1 was a huge success, UPA 2 was full of scams and scandals. How upset was he about the corruption his ministers were allegedly indulging in? Did you have any conversations about this? It is now clear, after the acquittal of all accused in the 2G case, that it was a 'scam' built up by the CAG. As Anil Swarup, a subsequent coal secretary, wrote in his first book, the coal 'scam' figures were inflated without any basis by the CAG. Also, political opposition was built up using the Lok Pal issue as is clear from the fact that the Lok Pal constituted by the present government is virtually non-functional. I do not, therefore, agree with the notion that UPA-2 was excessively corrupt. The impression was that he could not control his ministers. Was it true? Manmohan Singh was a consensus builder, not one who wanted to impose his will on all and sundry, including his ministers. This is how a PM should work in a democracy. The PM is first among ministers, not a dictator. Whenever decisions needed to be taken, he took them after democratic consultation. IMAGE: Then finance minister Dr Manmohan Singh arrives at Parliament to present the 1995-1996 Budget, March 15, 1996. Photograph: Reuters You were made in charge of the Commonwealth Games when it was riddled in a corruption scandal. Did he personally ask you to take charge? As the Commonwealth Games were slipping out of control due to ineffective performance by multiple agencies, he told me to take over control about a couple of months before the event. I appointed, with his permission, capable joint secretaries and additional secretaries, each in charge of one venue, and they delivered results. He once said, 'History will be kinder to me than contemporary India.' How do you think history will remember him? Yes, I think posterity will regard him as the maker of modern India. If we are today a global power, it is mainly due to the decisions he took in diverse spheres. The reforms he introduced would be on par with the Meiji Restoration in Japan, the Industrial Revolution in Europe, and the China makeover by Deng Xiaoping. As he was not by temperament a person who would go around blowing his own trumpet, he was under-rated in his lifetime but will be lauded by posterity. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com The BJP's vulnerabilities and as well as strengths were in full display in the year but what stood out is its ability to adapt its message and methods to the voices from the ground, underlining the full-spectrum of its campaign machine in which various components rise and fall in importance depending on its electoral needs. IMAGE: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Photograph: ANI Photo The inauguration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya in January was meant to deliver an unprecedented electoral harvest to the ruling Bharatiya Janata party in the Lok Sabha polls. And when it lost its majority, many thought it was the beginning of reverses awaiting the BJP. The outgoing year followed anything but a predictable path for the party. However, as the year drew to its end, the BJP has stamped its authority on the country's political map once again with remarkably improbable wins in what were seen as difficult state elections in Haryana and Maharashtra. The BJP's vulnerabilities and as well as strengths were in full display in the year but what stood out is its ability to adapt its message and methods to the voices from the ground, underlining the full-spectrum of its campaign machine in which various components rise and fall in importance depending on its electoral needs. If the RSS was seen to be less than fully active during the national elections, its affiliates and sympathisers were in full force helping the campaign of the BJP during the subsequent assembly polls. As the BJP looks to elect a new president to replace J P Nadda, also a Union minister, it is believed that the Hindutva organisation, considered the ideological mentor of the party, will have a big say in the choice. The ruling party depended on a message of triumphalism and inevitability about its return to power in the Lok Sabha elections with a mandate bigger than the 303 seats it had won in 2019. It gave the call of "abki baar, 400 paar". The results were sobering. If a section of its cadres and supporters turned, a section of voters were also alarmed and were drawn to the opposition's "Constitution in danger" call built around the BJP's "arrogance", giving a late boost to the disjointed INDIA bloc. The party lost its majority but the National Democratic Alliance led by it secured a comfortable majority of 294 seats in the 543-member House. Enthused with its better-than-expected show of 99 seats, the Congress fancied a rebound in its fortunes after a decade of setbacks, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi boasted of having "demolished" Prime Minister Narendra Modi's image, while the opposition party celebrated him as the "true voice of the people" following his 100-day stint as the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. As a new year approaches, it is Modi who remains the unchallenged leader while his government has shown none of the weaknesses of a coalition dispensation. It is the opposition INDIA bloc which is showing signs of unravelling, with allies increasingly distancing themselves from the Congress. Still, some key decisions the BJP made on its alliance proved farsighted. The party joined hands with Telugu Desam Party, the opposition party in Andhra Pradesh, ignoring past bad blood and despite its top brass' warm ties with Chief Minister and YSR Congress leader Jagan Mohan Reddy, and called off talks with the Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal. Both moves proved decisive, as the alliance under TDP leader N Chandrababu Naidu stormed to power in Andhra Pradesh, and the BJP on its own came to power in Odisha for the first time. The two assembly elections were held alongside the Lok Sabha polls. The two states' contribution of 41 seats to the NDA's Lok Sabha kitty might just have tipped the scale in favour of a third consecutive BJP-led alliance's government at the Centre under Modi's leadership. The BJP's big defeat in Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, the country's financial powerful and electorally second biggest state after Uttar Pradesh, and fall to five seats from the all 10 it held in Haryana triggered dire predictions of its prospects in the following assembly polls in the states, its strongholds for a decade. As the party has generally underperformed in assembly elections, the grim forecasts carried a ring of predictability as well. A chastened BJP, however, drew upon its vast organisational machinery and resources combined with the formidable political heft of its top brass, including Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, to set in motion a process which sought to blunt the successes of opposition's campaign in the national elections and focussed on the micro management covering specific booths, castes and regions. It also doubled down on welfarism by announcing a slew of measures aimed at targeted groups, the cash handout for women under the "Ladki Bahin" in Maharashtra being the most notable. That its alliance of three parties outpolled the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi by a huge 15 per cent in an election held only five months after the Lok Sabha polls, where both rival alliances had almost an equal share despite the NDA's big loss in terms of seats, cast a light on the imagination and adaptability of the BJP. One unqualified defeat the BJP suffered was in Jharkhand where polls were held along with Maharashtra's. Chief Minister Hemant Soren-led INDIA bloc alliance, which included Congress as a junior partner, inflicted a crushing defeat on the BJP, retaining power for a second term. Its local leaders found wanting, the BJP had heavily deployed its poll in-charges, Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the alleged infiltration of Bangladeshis was the central theme of its campaign. However, Soren's model of welfarism and regional pride in league with his own tribal identity prevailed. A mob led by Kuki-Zo women clashed with security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Tuesday, triggering fresh tensions in the ethnic strife-hit state. IMAGE: The Indian Army and Manipur Police recover five IEDs weighing 21.5 kilograms in the general area of Maphitel Ridge near Monglham during a joint search operation, in Imphal East. Photograph: ANI Photo The incident happened at Uyokching near Thamnapokpi after the mob tried to 'disrupt' the deployment of a combined team of Army, Border Security Force and Central Reserve Police Force, police said in a post on X. The joint forces 'dispersed' the crowd with 'minimum use of force' and now the situation is 'peaceful and under control', they said. The security forces were deployed at the hilltop to 'dominate the area and prevent any untoward incident in the area', they added. Locals claimed that several people were injured in the action by the security forces that happened in Saibol village in Twiching, which is located in the so-called 'buffer zone' between the Kuki-held Hills and Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley. They said that the local women had gathered to protest what they described as the 'forceful occupation' of community bunkers by security personnel. A Kuki leader alleged that the situation escalated when the forces used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. "It was like a battlefield," said one protester, adding, "We came to voice our concerns, not to face war tactics." Following the incident, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) blocked the National Highway 2, a critical road connecting the region to the rest of the country, for an indefinite period, demanding the withdrawal of central forces. "Our people have suffered enough. The use of excessive force on unarmed women is unacceptable," a CoTU spokesperson said. Blocking the NH-2 would disrupt the supply of commodities to the Metei areas in Imphal Valley. The Women's Wing of the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) claimed that many women were injured in the use of force by the security personnel. "This incident is particularly disturbing as it occurs during the Christmas-New Year period, a time when people come together to celebrate peace, love, and joy. Instead, the CAPF's actions have brought fear, trauma, and suffering to the community. Since it wounded the sentiments of the Kuki-Zo community, the Saibul-Twichin incident would be closely monitored by the Kuki-Zo community worldwide," it added. There was, however, no confirmation from the government on the number of people injured. The Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights (KWOHR) alleged that the security forces targeted Kuki women who were peacefully protesting against the 'increasing violence activities perpetrated by adversary community and insecurity caused by these forces'. "It is deeply troubling that these central security forces, entrusted with maintaining peace and order, have instead engaged in actions that exacerbate the suffering of the Kuki-Zo community," it alleged. "The KWOHR condemns in the strongest possible terms the actions of the CAPF personnel in this incident, particularly the physical assault and molestation on Kuki women, including the tearing of their clothing and the use of excessive force in the form of lathi charges and firing of tear gas on unarmed innocent Kuki women," it said. The Kuki Women's Union claimed the actions by the security forces not only undermined the principles of democracy and justice but also exacerbated the existing trust deficit between the central authorities and the Kuki community. "At last, if the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) is incapable of manning the Buffer Zones and preventing Meiteis from attacking us, even after more than 19 long months, they should abandon the Buffer Zones so that our volunteers can take necessary steps to protect us," it said. More than 250 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence in Manipur since May last year. Thousands of police personnel and CCTV cameras were deployed and traffic regulated across states on Tuesday to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incident as the country geared up to welcome 2025. IMAGE: Police personnel check a vehicle as security tightens on New Year's Eve, in Jammu on Tuesday. Photograph: ANI Photo Traffic police personnel armed with alcometers were deployed at prominent places in major cities to check drunk driving. Nearly 20,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in Delhi to check hooliganism and traffic violations on New Year's Eve, a senior police official said. Traffic restrictions will be imposed near Connaught Place after 8 pm. Ten spots have been identified in Connaught Place where vehicles will not be allowed, a senior police official said. Additionally, police personnel will be deployed at 14 points at India Gate where restrictions will be imposed to prevent overcrowding. The official said that 50 teams equipped with alcometers will be stationed at key locations to prevent drunk driving. "We have made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors on New Year's Eve," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), New Delhi, Devesh Kumar Mahla. He said large crowds are expected to gather in various clubs, hotels, restaurants, pubs, malls and parks, and special arrangements have been made for such places. The arrangement is divided into two zones -- A and B. "Zone-A will be supervised by additional DCP-I at places like Parliament Street and Connaught Place while Zone-B will be supervised by Additional DCP-II at places like Chanakyapuri, Barakhamba Road and Tughlak Road. There will be four ACPs, 23 inspectors, 648 police personnel, 100 home guards and 11 companies of Central Armed Police Forces," Mahla said. Similar arrangements have been made in southwest and east Delhi. In Maharashtra, more than 14,000 police personnel have been deployed in Mumbai as part of elaborate security arrangements to maintain law and order on New Year's Eve. These include more than 12,000 police constables, 2,184 officers, 53 assistant commissioners, 29 deputy commissioners and eight additional commissioner-rank officers, an official said. Large gatherings are expected at prominent places in the city, including Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Girgaon Chowpatty, Bandra Bandstand, Juhu and Versova beaches. Celebrations at various hotels, restaurants and malls are likely to continue till the early hours of Wednesday. Hence, police will maintain a strict vigil in the city, he said. Plainclothes police personnel will keep an eye on crowds in busy areas to avoid any untoward incident. CCTV cameras will also be used to monitor many places, he added. More than 1,100 police personnel will be deployed in Raigad district as thousands of tourists are stationed at Alibag, Mandwa, Kashid, Murud and Shrivardhan beaches to ring in the New Year, an official said. The Government Railway Police (GRP) has also beefed up security at railway stations and platforms. "Proper planning has been done. GRP personnel have been deployed at all the stations in the Mumbai zone. More than 5,000 personnel of police, home guard, Railway Protection Force and Maharashtra Security Force will be deployed and senior officers will personally monitor the situation," GRP Commissioner Ravindra Shisve told PTI. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said more than 7,500 CCTV cameras have been installed across Bengaluru and special picket arrangements and enhanced police deployment have been made to ensure public safety. "We have taken all kinds of precautionary measures to ensure safe New Year celebrations. Our primary objective is to prevent any untoward incident. In Bengaluru, nearly 8.5 lakh people will celebrate the occasion and there will be picketing in key areas like Brigade Road, Commercial Street, Koramangala and Indira Nagar," he said. A total of 11,830 police personnel, including senior officers, civil defence staff and others, will maintain strict vigil across the city, monitoring for potential rave parties and drug-related activities. The government has permitted New Year celebrations in the city only till 1 am. In Gujarat too, security has been beefed up. A senior officer said 6,000 police personnel have been deployed in Ahmedabad and security has been enhanced at popular spots. Police were checking vehicles at inter-state borders and will check liquor and drug consumption using breathalysers and mobile analyser kits. "Around 6,000 policemen have been deployed across Ahmedabad who will remain 'stand-to' from 6 pm (of December 31) till the morning of January 1. Vehicles are being checked in areas under all the police stations," said Ahmedabad Additional Commissioner of Police, Sector-1, Neeraj Badgujar. He said security has been stepped up in busy areas, such as SG Highway, CG Road, Sabarmati Riverfront and Sindhu Bhavan Road. A DCP-level officer will be deployed at these places to guide on-duty police personnel, including those in plain clothes. Police will also maintain a vigil outside hotels, open plots and farmhouses to prevent illegal activities. Badgujar said interceptor vehicles have also been deployed to nab those performing stunts on roads. Police in Arvalli district have set up 10 interstate checkposts, including those at the Shamlaji-Ratanpur border, said Superintendent of Police Shaifali Barwal. Banaskantha police will keep a close watch to thwart any attempt to smuggle liquor into Gujarat from the Rajasthan border, said Inspector S K Parmar. Political battle over 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojna' announced by Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal intensified on Tuesday, as he launched registration process for the scheme at a temple in Kashmiri Gate in New Delhi. IMAGE: Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal launches the Pujari Granthi Samman Scheme during his visit to Marghat Wale Hanuman Baba temple, in New Delhi on Tuesday. Photograph: ANI Photo Kejriwal, who was scheduled to launch the registration process at the Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place, changed the venue amid protests by a group of priests at the CP temple for announcing the honorarium after a delay of 10 years. The Bharatiya Janata Party criticised Kejriwal, dubbing him a 'Chunavi Hindu' (election-time Hindu), and released a video highlighting alleged instances of Hinduism being insulted by AAP leaders. On Monday, the AAP chief announced a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 for temple priests and granthis of gurudwaras if the party returned to power in Delhi. On Tuesday, the Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place turned into a political arena as workers of the AAP and the BJP engaged in intense slogan shouting against each other. Kejriwal, who earlier announced the launch of registration process from the Hanuman temple, gave a slip to the CP venue and instead reached 'Marghat Wale Baba' temple in north Delhi's Kashmiri Gate and registered the priest there. Chief Minister Atishi also launched the registration process for granthis at a gurudwara in Karol Bagh. The Aam Aadmi Party, however, did not share the details about the number of priests and granthis registered for the scheme on the first day. Kejriwal visited Marghat Wale Baba temple along with his wife Sunita and registered the priest there. 'Today I visited Marghat Baba's temple (ISBT) and launched the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana. Today is the birthday of Mahant ji here. I also celebrated his birthday with him,' he said in a post on X. The former Delhi chief minister alleged that the BJP tried its best to stop the registration process for the scheme, and said no one can stop a devotee from meeting the god. As politics over the honorarium gathered momentum in Delhi, a group of priests staged a protest against Kejriwal outside the Connaught Place temple for announcing the honorarium after a delay of 10 years. Kejriwal said the BJP instead of cursing him, should implement the 'Pujari Granthi' scheme in the states ruled by it. Addressing a press conference, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said, "Kejriwal who questioned the very existence of Lord Ram can never be a Hindu nationalist. The people of Delhi have resolved to bid farewell to an opportunistic 'Chunavi Hindu' from power corridors of Delhi." Sachdeva also released a video collage prepared by the social media department of the party, showing old clips of Kejriwal and his party leaders' statements allegedly insulting Hinduism. BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj called the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojna' an 'appeasement' move ahead of the assembly polls. At a press conference, the New Delhi MP challenged Kejriwal to implement the schemes announced by him, including the 'Mahila Samman Yojna', saying there is no model code of conduct in place. "Why is Kejriwal making promises? If he truly wants to help priests and granthis, he should immediately hold a cabinet meeting and provide them a benefit of Rs 18,000. After all, it is his government," Swaraj said. She said that while Kejriwal made the poll promise of paying Rs 18,000 to priests and granthis, imams who were already getting the benefit were now protesting for payment of their pending salaries for 17 months. AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh hit back at the BJP, alleging the party was frustrated with the announcement made by Kejriwal and was unsure of its next move. Despite ruling in 20 states and claiming to be the champions of Hindu interests, the BJP never implemented such a scheme, he said. India on Tuesday said it is extending all possible help to explore relevant options in the case of an Indian nurse facing death sentence in Yemen. IMAGE: Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya faces death sentence for allegedly murdering a Yemeni citizen. Photograph: X Nimisha Priya, hailing from Kerala, has been reportedly handed capital punishment for allegedly murdering a Yemeni citizen. "We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Priya is exploring relevant options," said Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. "The government is extending all possible help in the matter," he added. Jaiswal was replying to a media query. It was a year of turmoil in Manipur. The divide between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki tribes in the hills deepened in 2024, triggering human casualties, widespread violence, mob attacks and drone strikes on civilian areas. IMAGE: People participate in a mass protest rally against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA), and the ongoing killing of civilians by terrorist in Imphal. Photograph: ANI Photo Once known for its cultural harmony, the state now faces deepening divisions, with thousands displaced and communities living in constant fear, as tensions show no signs of easing and peace remained a far cry in the year gone by. The year started on a violent note when four villagers were gunned down by cadres of the banned Peoples' Liberation Army in Thoubal district on January 1. The incident, linked to disputes over money collected through illegal drug trade, forced the state government to impose prohibitory orders in all five valley districts. A month later, armed miscreants stormed the residence of additional SP Moirangthem Amit Singh at Wangkhei Tokpam in Imphal East district and vandalised his property. During the incident, the additional SP and one of his escorts were abducted by armed miscreants and later rescued from Kwakeithel Konjeng Leikai area in Imphal West district, about 5 km from the incident site. The Lok Sabha elections were held in April against the backdrop of intense ethnic tension between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. While the second phase of polls passed off peacefully, the first phase was characterised by widespread violence, including incidents of firing, intimidation, destruction of EVMs at some polling booths, and allegations of booth capturing from multiple parties. For the first time, the ethnic violence, previously confined to Imphal valley and surrounding districts of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi and Moreh border town in Tengnoupal district, took a new turn when a man was found dead in Jiribam district bordering Assam in June. The incident triggered a fresh wave of ethnic violence, widespread arson, gunfights, and the torching of houses between members of the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. More than 1,000 people were internally displaced following a spate of gun attacks by armed groups of respective communities in the previously peaceful district, inhabited by multiple communities. The state also witnessed a new kind of warfare when suspected Kuki youths dropped drone-operated bombs at Koutruk village and nearby Senjam Chirang in Imphal West district on September 1, leading to the death of a woman and injuring nine. Days later, an unguided rocket missile was fired from the hill ranges of Churachandpur district at Moirang in Bishnupur district, killing an elderly man and injuring five others. Amid increasing attacks on peripheral villages and resulting civilian deaths, intense clashes erupted between students and security forces in Imphal, leading to injuries to over 50 students. On November 11, armed Kuki-Zo youths attacked Borobekra police station and Jakuradhor Karong locality in Jiribam district. This triggered a gunfight between security forces and the attackers, leading to the death of 10 Kuki youths. Hours later it was found that eight persons, including three women and three children all internally displaced persons were missing. On November 12, the charred bodies of two elderly Meitei men were found among the burnt debris at Jakuradhor. The same day, a purported photo of the women and children in captivity went viral on social media, outraging the Meitei community. In the evening, a general shutdown across Imphal Valley and Jiribam was called to protest the abduction. The situation worsened after the bodies of three women and three children were found near the confluence of Jiri River and Barak River along the Manipur-Assam border on November 15. A day later, protests broke out in Imphal valley as mobs targeted the residences of valley-based legislators. They also attacked and set fire to vehicles and properties of BJP leaders. More than 250 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. On Sunday, December 29, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the outstanding contributions of the Indian Army's training institutions during his visit to Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. This visit included stops at the Army War College, thew Infantry School and the Military College of Telecommunication and Engineering, three premier institutions shaping the strategic and operational expertise of Indian Army personnel. The minister was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officers of the Indian Army. The next day, Rajnath Singh visited the Mahakal temple in Ujjain with General Dwivedi. IMAGE: Rajnath Singh with General Dwivedi during their visit to the Mahakal temple. Photographs: ANI Photo IMAGE: Rajnath Singh and General Dwivedi offer prayers at the Mahakal temple. IMAGE: A view of the minister and the general offering prayers. IMAGE: Rajnath Singh and General Dwivedi during the prayers, here and below. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Air quality in different parts of Mumbai dipped to nearly poor levels on Monday, December 30, 2024, prompting the civic authorities to call for strict pollution control measures, including the halting of construction activities. Air Quality Index in parts of Mumbai breached the 200-mark. The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation urged Mumbaikars to use public transport, avoid burning waste. IMAGE: A thick layer of smog engulfs the city as the air quality deteriorates, here and below. Photographs: ANI Photo IMAGE: A view of high rise buildings in the Bandra Reclamation area which are barely visible amid the smog, here and below. IMAGE: Vijay Chowk in New Delhi is also covered in smog as air quality remains in the 'very poor' category in the national capital, here and below. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo A product of the 1942 Quit India movement, a Gandhian and a Socialist who remains closely connected with grassroot movements, Dr G G Parikh remains a familiar figure in Maharashtra. IMAGE: Dr G G Parikh listens as the audience sings a birthday song for him. Photograph: Jyoti Punwani It is a rare occasion when a legend celebrates his 100th birthday. Hundreds of admirers sat for two-and-a-half hours in the sweltering heat as speaker after speaker spoke of the institution that is Dr G G Parikh, in the institution that he had built: The Yusuf Meherally Centre in Panvel. A product of the 1942 Quit India movement, a Gandhian and a Socialist who remains closely connected with grassroot movements, Dr G G Parikh remains a familiar figure in Maharashtra, specially in Mumbai and Panvel, where he has set up institutions such as the Janata Kendra and the Yusuf Meherally Vidyalaya (Tardeo) and the Yusuf Meherally Centre which works for rural development on Gandhian lines (Panvel). Yusuf Meherally was the freedom fighter who coined the slogan 'Angrez Bharat Chhodo, Quit India'. On Monday, December 30, 2024 a galaxy of well-known personalities spoke of what an inspiration "GG" was. Some like former Bombay University vice-chancellor Bhalchandra Mungekar said how rare it was today to find someone before whom you could bow your head. "GG' is one such," he said. Others like veteran journalist Kumar Ketkar said how unworthy he was of the honour of being seated next to "GG" on stage, and wished him 25 years of his own life to carry on inspiring others. There were youngsters and elders in the audience; one of them, brought in a wheelchair, was the wife of one of "GG's jail colleagues in the Quit India movement. But the most compelling speaker was the birthday boy himself. As he always does, "GG" credited the circumstances in which he was born and grew up in for moulding him. "Had I not been born during the freedom movement, had I not gone to jail in 1942 and been showered with affection by stalwarts there, had I not come under the influence of Gandhiji, I would not have become what I have, " he said. Dividing his life into the personal, political and social, he said the latter two were closely intertwined. After coming out of jail in 1942, he had wanted to live his life as a "soldier of Socialism". He felt he had done so to a large extent. As for his personal life, his father's decision to make him a doctor had enabled him to abide by a decision he had made early on: That he would survive on his own earnings. Gandhiji's advice: Keep as much as you earn for your needs, but also give back to society, had inspired him to set up social institutions, with the help of his Socialist colleagues. But as he entered his 101st year, "GG" also took a candid look at his life in front of all his admirers. Recalling that Jayaprakash Narayan had once discussed his life with an "ordinary worker" like him, asking him: "Where did I go wrong?", "GG" also asked the audience, "Where did I go wrong?" IMAGE: The preamble of the Constitution with Yusuf Meherally's bust at the entrance to the Yusuf Meherally Centre in Panvel. Photograph: Jyoti Punwani He then went on to share two painful episodes of his life, wherein two of his young acquaintances committed suicide. He had never been able to stop wondering if he could have prevented those suicides by doing things differently. "Our freedom movement and Gandhi created a crop of patriots who could give their lives for the country's independence. But after we became independent, these sensitive souls could not bear any deviation from the ideal," he said. The biggest example of this was the suicide of Sane Guruji, freedom fighter, social activist, author. Everyone eulogised him almost as a saint, but why did no one talk about the reasons for his suicide, asked "GG" in anguished tones, recalling that the legendary Socialist leader had been brought to the KEM hospital while "GG" was a student there, but the doctors could not save him. The veteran Socialist also expressed regret that the Socialist Party had not succeeded in attracting today's youth to socialism, except for a few. IMAGE: Medha Patkar addresses the gathering. Photograph: Jyoti Punwani Recounting that he had worked for the Socialist Party's victory in the first general elections, "GG" revealed that the experience had made him realise that electoral politics was not for him. "You have to make too many compromises. What use is power if it comes after having compromised your principles?" he said. That was why, after the Emergency, though many party supporters wanted him to fight elections, and he could have got a ticket for the asking, he didn't ask for one. "Parties become soft once they come to power and you can't get anything done when your cadre is soft," said "GG", advising his listeners to reject the idea that political power was necessary to bring about change. "If you have integrity, you don't need power. We have the numbers, we can think of creative programmes which won't be stopped by the government. That will bring change." IMAGE: A view of the gathering. Photograph: Jyoti Punwani A surprise guest at the function that was dominated by Socialists was Shiv Sena (UBT) veteran Subhash Desai, who had fought elections against Socialist Party candidates in the past. In fact, Socialists were always at the receiving end of Saamna's editorials when Bal Thackeray was alive. In a sign of the changed equations in Maharashtra, Desai presented a shawl and a bouquet to Dr G G Parikh on behalf of Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com US President Donald Trump has urged Russia to agree to a 30-day cease-fire, warning he would slap additional sanctions on the country if it refused the US proposal, as Moscow made more gains on the battlefield. "Russia has no way out but cease-fire. If needed we will sanction it, but I hope we won't need to," Trump told reporters at the White House on March 12. "In a financial sense we can do very unpleasant, very bad things, devastating for Russia, but I don't want to," he said. His comments come a day after Kyiv agreed to the temporary cease-fire following nine hours of talks with Trump administration officials in Saudi Arabia. Trump has made ending Russia's more than three-year full-scale invasion of Ukraine a top priority since taking office for a second term less than two months ago, quickly dispatching his top officials to Moscow and Kyiv to prepare the groundwork for peace talks. He has used Washington's significant leverage over Ukraine -- namely military aid and intelligence sharing -- to get Kyiv to agree to the cease-fire proposal, which if implemented, would leave almost 20 percent of the country in Russia's hands for the time being, at least. But Trump lacks that type of leverage with Russia, which has navigated sweeping US and European sanctions placed on its economy following the invasion much better than most experts forecasted. Putin may seek to drag out talks with the US over a cease-fire to improve Russia's position on the battlefield and hence at the negotiating table when and if Moscow and Kyiv hammer out a peace deal. As Trump spoke at the White House, Putin was visiting troops in Russia's Kursk region, where fierce fighting is currently taking place and Moscow's forces are advancing. Ukraine seized a swath of the Kursk region in a stealth incursion in August seen as an effort to divert Russian forces from eastern Ukraine and use the territory as a bargaining chip during any peace talks. That strategy is now at risk of failing as Russian forces slowly push the Ukrainians out of Kursk. Russians forces have retaken more than half the territory initially captured by Ukraine. Putin's visit to Kursk was his first since the incursion and signals the momentum Russia has in that theater of the war. The Kremlin leader urged his troops to retake the region in its entirety "as soon as possible." Ukraine's top military commander, General Oleksandr Syrskiy, said that fighting continued in and around Sudzha, the largest town in the part of the region that Ukraine occupied. Unconfirmed reports on March 12 indicated that Ukraine has begun to draw back units as Russian officials claimed their troops had captured more settlements, including Sudzha. "Despite increased pressure from the Russian and North Korean forces, we will maintain the defense of the Kursk region as long as it is appropriate and necessary," Syrskiy wrote on Telegram. In a Facebook post, Syrskiy said that saving soldiers lives is a priority and that Ukrainian troops "maneuver to more favorable positions, if necessary," wording often used top describe a retreat. Concessions? Trump hinted that Ukraine would have to make concessions on land, something more and more experts say is inevitable given Russia's momentum on the battlefield. "When we talk cease-fire [with Ukraine], we talked land, who's withdrawing -- we discussed a lot of things [with Ukraine]," Trump said. "We don't want to waste time, people are dying. Russia is not in the best situation now. I hope [Putin] gets a cease-fire." Earlier in the day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the cease-fire proposal and said he hoped it would be used as a draft for a lasting peace deal that included security guarantees for Ukraine. "It's now up to Russia what is next," he said at a March 12 press conference, and whether "it wants to continue its aggression against Ukraine or not." On the streets of Kyiv, some Ukrainians told RFE/RL's Current Time that they doubted whether Russia would sign on to, and adhere to, a cease-fire deal. "I'm not sure what to say, but it all seems implausible, frankly speaking," said one Kyiv man, while a woman in the capital said the cease-fire talks were "meaningless without Russia taking part." Moscow has so far declined to comment on the specifics of the proposal for the 30-day cease-fire, and it's unclear whether Putin has made up his mind on the agreement. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was "carefully studying" the joint US-Ukraine statement issued following the Jeddah talks and will wait to comment until Russian negotiators receive more detailed information from Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who represented the United States at the talks, said Washington "will have contact with Russians" today. Trump on March 11 said he would soon speak with Putin to secure his commitment. Mike Waltz, the White House national-security adviser, spoke with his Russian counterpart on March 12, while Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff also planned to travel to Moscow, possibly to meet Putin. CIA Director John Ratcliffe held a phone call with Sergei Naryshkin, director of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, late on March 11, the Interfax news agency reported. Rubio told reporters on March 12 in first comments since leaving the talks in Jeddah that the United States hoped to have a positive answer from Russia toward the cease-fire deal and "strongly urge[s] Russians to end all hostilities. Konstantin Kosachev, an influential lawmaker in Russia's upper house of parliament, seemed to imply that Moscow would not simply accept the US-backed ceasefire proposal but attach conditions, taking into account that Russian forces have the momentum on the battlefield. "Russia is advancing, and therefore it will be different with Russia," Kosachyov said in a Telegram post. "Any agreements (with all understanding of the need for compromise) will be on our terms, not American," he said. "And this is not boasting, but an understanding that real agreements are still being written there, on the front line. Which Washington should also understand." Rubio also said Ukraine will need a strong deterrent to prevent future attacks and that Europeans will "need to be involved in this regard." He added that further discussions would need to tackle to topic of the European Union lifting sanctions on the Russian economy. "I would imagine that in any negotiation, if we get there, hopefully with the Russians, they will raise these European sanctions that have been imposed upon them," Rubio said. Moscow has so far been against a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Russia's position during an interview with three right-wing US bloggers that it will under no conditions accept the presence of NATO forces in Ukraine. Minerals Deal Washington and Kyiv could sign a framework agreement as early as this week on sharing the revenue generated from Ukraine's mineral resources. Trump and Zelenskyy intended to sign the deal during their meeting at the Oval Office on February 28. However, the two got into a heated, public exchange over security guarantees for Ukraine and the meeting was abruptly ended without any deal. Rubio cautioned that he "would not couch [the] minerals deal as a security guarantee." But he added that "if the United States has a vested economic interest thats generating revenue for our people as well as for the people of Ukraine, wed have a vested interest in protecting it if it were to be challenged or threatened." The parade of comments come after Russia and Ukraine traded air attacks overnight just hours after Kyiv agreed to accept the cease-fire proposal. Two Russian missile strikes hit the central Ukrainian city of Kryviy Rih on March 12, killing one person, while a separate attack killed four crew members of a cargo ship near the southern port city of Odesa. Russia's Defense Ministry said its air-defense systems shot down six drones overnight on March 12, one over Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimea and five over the Black Sea. The Krymsky Veter Telegram channel reported loud explosions and air-raid sirens over Crimean towns and near Russian military sites. The United States announced after the talks in Saudi Arabia that it would immediately lift the pause on intelligence sharing and restore military aid to Ukraine, which could be a boost to Ukrainian forces. Ukraine's battlefield positions have been under heavy pressure, particularly in Russia's Kursk region. Ukraine claims that for the first time one of its sea drones has downed a Russian military target in the air during a day of intense attacks by both sides as the war edges closer to its three-year anniversary. Ukraine's military intelligence agency (GUR) said in a post on Telegram on December 31 that a Magura V5 sea drone equipped with missiles shot down an Mi-8 helicopter in a battle near Cape Tarkhankut on Crimea's west coast. Another Russian helicopter, the GUR said, was hit by fire but managed to return to a Russian airfield. "GUR soldiers destroyed an air target for the first time in the world using a Magura V5 naval drone," the intelligence agency said in the post, which had grainy video of what it said was evidence of the attack. The video has not been independently verified. The GUR claim came hours after air-raid sirens blared across Ukraine as Russia launched another countrywide massive air attack, with explosions heard in some parts of Kyiv. Warnings were issued in the Chernihiv, Sumy, Poltava, Luhansk, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhya, Kyiv, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, and Vinnytsya regions and local media said cruise and ballistic missiles launched in the attack. The Kyiv military administration reported that three private buildings and two cars in the Darnitsky district were damaged by falling debris as air-defense systems repelled the Russian missile strikes. There were no casualties, according to the head of the administration, Serhiy Popko. The head of the municipal administration in Shostka in the Sumy region, Mykola Noga, said 12 multistory residential buildings and two educational institutions were damaged, while several individual infrastructure facilities were destroyed. No information on possible casualties was given. A woman told RFE/RL at the scene that she and her husband ran into a hallway of their third-floor apartment after hearing explosions. She said they taped up a broken window before more explosions and damage occurred. "We put a blanket [on the window], but it did not help," she said. She described her home as "half intact" and said the wind is blowing through it. She and her husband planned to spend the night at their daughter's home. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told the nation later in an address to mark the new year that Ukraine must fight in 2025 to bolster its position both militarily and ahead of any talks to end Russia's three year invasion. "Every day in the coming year, I, and all of us, must fight for a Ukraine that is strong enough. Because only such a Ukraine is respected and heard both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table," he said in his address. "May 2025 be our year," he added. "We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift, but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war. This is what each of us wishes for." Earlier on December 31, Ukrainian drones attacked an oil depot in Russia's Yartsevo district of the Smolensk region. Smolensk regional Governor Vasily Anokhin said the fire was caused by falling debris when the drones were shot down. "As a result, a fuel spill occurred and flammable materials began to ignite. There is no threat to residential buildings," he wrote on social media. The new attacks come a day after the United States pledged additional security assistance for Ukraine to help strengthen its defenses along the front line. The White House said in a statement on December 30 that the pledge includes an additional $1.25 billion drawdown package for the Ukrainian military and a $1.22 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative package. Hours later, the Treasury Department announced a separate $3.4 billion disbursement to Ukraine in direct budget support. The announcements came as the White House ramps up support to the war-torn country before President Joe Biden's term ends next month. Biden pledged to continue ratcheting up support, but the package is likely to be the last brought forth during his administration amid concerns that President-elect Donald Trump will significantly reduce or halt arms supplies to Ukraine in order to push Kyiv to negotiate a peace settlement with Russia. Trump is scheduled to be inaugurated on January 20. Russia has been pushing back Ukrainian troops on the front lines for weeks and claimed on December 29 to have seized another town in Ukraine's Donetsk region as it continues its long, bloody drive against the strategic -- but nearly destroyed -- southern logistics hub of Pokrovsk. Russia's Defense Ministry said on December 30 that its forces captured Novotroyitske, a settlement with a prewar population 6,300 about 16 kilometers south of Pokrovsk. The Ukrainian military did not comment specifically about Novotroyitske, but it said Russian troops had carried out 133 attacks on its positions, most of which were in the Pokrovsk area. Analysts have speculated on what the Kremlin forces' next steps will be for the city, a strategic logistics hub for Kyiv. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said geolocation data suggested the Russian military was about 10 kilometers from the border of the Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions. "[Russian President Vladimir] Putin may be putting pressure on the Russian military command to advance to the border, and not to cover Pokrovsk at this time," it wrote. In an interview with RFE/RL, Viktor Muzhenko, the former Ukrainian military commander, said any truce between Kyiv and Moscow that leaves swaths of Ukrainian territory under Russian control would represent a victory for the Kremlin and "fully compensate [it] for its costs of the war." Muzhenko, who led the military from 2014-19, said the situation with the occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and parts of Zaporizhzhya and Kherson regions is "critical" -- "not only for the loss of territories, but also [the loss of] half of the resource base of Ukraine." The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said late on December 30 that during the day, some 153 combat clashes occurred on the front lines as Russia presses forward. The ISW estimates territorial gains by the Russian army in 2024 reached about 3,300 square kilometers. Counterattacks by Ukraine also took place in 2024, though only a few square kilometers of Ukrainian territory was recaptured. The bulk of the Russian advances, it said, took place at the end of the year, when Russian troops captured 20 to 30 square kilometers per day, the ISW said. BAKU -- After Azerbaijan's president accused Russia of accidentally shooting down an airliner and covering up the cause, public anger in the Caucasian country is mounting against Moscow for its handling of the incident. "Although Russia tried to evade responsibility, it could not escape the facts," the daily news program for ITV, an Azerbaijani state-controlled broadcaster, began its show on December 29. "Refusing to allow the plane to land after shooting it down has only one name -- a crime!" stated an opinion piece in Yeni Musavat, a pro-government online newspaper, following the December 25 disaster that killed 38 people and injured 29. The tough statements are part of a growing wave of criticism toward Russia in online discourse and from state-owned and pro-government media in Azerbaijan, which typically avoids harsh comments about the country's ally and large neighbor. It is also a reflection of the increasing public anger toward Russia for its apparent attempts to sidestep responsibility in the downing of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane. During a televised interview on December 29, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who has leveraged the country's oil wealth to enhance his autocratic rule, said Moscow was trying to "hush up" that the plane was struck by ground fire over Russia and "rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare," forcing it off course from its destination of Grozny in Chechnya before it attempted an emergency landing and crashed in western Kazakhstan. "We can say with complete clarity that the plane was shot down by Russia," Aliyev told state television. "We are not saying it was done intentionally, but it was done." Amid the backlash, Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized on December 28 to Aliyev for the "tragic incident" in Russian airspace, saying the country's air defences had engaged Ukrainian attack drones. Originally, Russia said the crash occurred after the Embraer 190 aircraft hit a flock of birds. A Kremlin statement said Putin had spoken with Aliyev but did not say Russia had shot down the plane, only noting a criminal case had been opened. "Unfortunately, for the first three days, we heard nothing from Russia except absurd versions," Aliyev said during the interview. Some Azerbaijani analysts have said the lack of a complete apology and an offer to pay compensation for downing the plane from Russia could harm relations between Baku and Moscow. "It's clear that the Azerbaijani president was not satisfied with his phone call [with Putin]," Elkhan Shahinoglu, the director of the Atlas Research Center, a think tank in Baku, told RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service. Shahinoglu said Russia will need to take clear steps to satisfy the Azerbaijani government and public, which have been galvanized by the Kremlin's initial attempts to offer other explanations that have been firmly rejected by Baku and international aviation experts. "If they had confessed immediately, the situation would not have become so tense," Shahinoglu said. Russia's Investigative Committee Chairman Aleksandr Bastrykin pledged on December 30 that there would be a "full and objective investigation of the crash." Authorities in Kazakhstan have also sent the flight recorders to Brazil, where the Embraer 190 was manufactured. There, Azerbaijani and international experts will extract and analyze the data. Following a period of national mourning, Azerbaijan paid tributes to victims of the downed plane and then held a state funeral for the flight's crew. Three members -- Captain Igor Kshnyakin, co-pilot Aleksander Kalayaninov, and flight attendant Hokuma Aliyeva -- were posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan, one of the country's highest distinctions, by presidential decree. Ukraine has agreed to a US proposal for a 30-day cease-fire in the war against the Russian invasion, prompting the United States to say it would immediately lift the suspension of military aid, including the sharing of intelligence. The outcome of nine hours of talks on March 11 in Jeddah marked a stunning turnaround less than two weeks after an acrimonious meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The clash between the two leaders preceded the US pause in aid and limits on intelligence sharing, which the United States said were imposed because of doubts that Ukraine was committed to seeking peace. "The President wanted this war to end yesterday... So our hope is that the Russians will answer 'yes' as quickly as possible, so we can get to the second phase of this, which is real negotiations," US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters after the agreement was announced. A joint statement issued by the two countries said Ukraine expressed a "readiness" to accept the US proposal to enact an immediate, interim 30-day cease-fire, "which can be extended by mutual agreement of the parties, and which is subject to acceptance and concurrent implementation by the Russian Federation." Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said a meeting with Russia would take place later on March 11 or the following day. Rubio, who attended the talks in Saudi Arabia along with national-security adviser Mike Waltz, said the cease-fire plan puts the ball in Russias court. Were going to tell them this is whats on the table, he said of Russian President Vladimir Putins government. Ukraine is ready to stop shooting and start talking. And now itll be up to them to say yes or no." Russian officials have repeatedly said that they want a comprehensive peace deal, not a cease-fire or other temporary arrangement. Russia's Foreign Ministry said it wouldn't rule out contacts with US officials over next several days, but gave no further comment. The US and Ukrainian delegations said they also discussed the importance of humanitarian relief efforts as part of the peace process, particularly during the cease-fire, including the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees, and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children. "I have confirmation that the security assistance from the United States has been restored," Pavlo Palisa, deputy head of the Ukrainian President's Office and a member of the delegation, said in a post on Facebook. "Arrangements are starting to be fulfilled." In addition, Ukraine and the United States agreed to conclude a pact on joint development of Ukrainian critical minerals and other resources as soon as possible. That deal had been expected to be signed at the White House meeting on February 28, but Zelenskyy left early after the argument in the Oval Office, leaving it in limbo. Ukraine Invasion: News & Analysis RFE/RL's Ukraine Live Briefing gives you the latest developments on Russia's invasion, Western military aid, the plight of civilians, and territorial control maps. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here. The talks were closely watched across Europe, which has grown concerned Washington's renewed contacts with the Kremlin would sideline both Kyiv and Brussels from the peace process. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who recently traveled to the White House to meet Trump, congratulated the US and Ukrainian delegations, saying it is now up to Moscow to end the fighting. European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen saidthe proposal for a ceasefire agreement and the resumption of U.S. intelligence sharing and security assistance was a welcome development. "This is a positive development that can be a step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine. The ball is now in Russias court," she added. The talks in Jeddah on March 11 followed a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack that struck the Moscow region and other Russian provinces overnight, killing three people. John Herbst, a former US ambassador to Ukraine, said before the joint statement that restoring intelligence cooperation should be seen as a positive result for Kyiv. He also said sequencing in future negotiations will be crucial. While an early cease-fire can be key part of a future peace process, he stresses that it's important that it be followed by further steps toward a lasting peace deal, such as continued military shipments to Ukraine, a potential demilitarized zone, and a greater role for European countries, including their forces deployed as peacekeepers. These are all serious ideas that have been floated, Herbst said. That might not be a just peace, because a just peace wouldnt see Ukraine have to concede territory, but it could still be a durable one that makes it very hard for Russia to renew aggression. What Role Will Russia And Europe Play In Peace Talks? As Ukrainian and US officials met in Saudi Arabia, attention was also shifting to the other two players that will decide how the war ends: Russia and Kyivs European allies. Top military officials from more than 30 nations met in Paris on March 11 for talks on the creation of an international security force for Ukraine. The force is being envisaged by Britain and France. Its aim is to reassure Ukraine and deter another large-scale Russian offensive after any cease-fire. The force might include heavy weaponry and weapons stockpiles that could be rushed within hours or days to aid in Ukraines defense. Russia has so far said it is against accepting European troops in Ukraine as part of a deal. The Kremlin has also spoken about getting Western sanctions lifted on its economy as part of a peace process, including in Saudi Arabia where US and Russian officials held talks nearly a month ago. Marie Dumoulin, a former French diplomat and an analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations, says that this gives European governments some leverage when the dust settles from the talks in Jeddah. She said that doubts remain in European capitals about whether Russia is willing to make any concessions of its own and that Europe can use both its own offer of security guarantees to Ukraine and the possibility of lifting European Union sanctions on Russia as a way to shape discussions in both Moscow and Washington. This gives Ukraine a few more cards to hold at the table, Dumoulin told RFE/RL. These can give Ukraine some room to say whether the deal being offered to them is good enough yet or not. RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and RFE/RL's Kosovo Service contributed to this report Ukrainian's military said it has downed a Russian helicopter for the first time with a missile launched from a new-generation sea drone. In a December 31 statement, Ukraine said a water-based drone on the Black Sea was responsible for the attack. Until now, such drones have only been known for strikes against Russian ships or other marine targets. Once Russia's initial push to subjugate Ukraine failed in the first weeks of its full-scale invasion, a widespread view prevailed for two years or more: There's no end in sight. That has changed in recent months for several reasons, with factors ranging from the situation on the battlefield and shifts in public opinion to the election of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who returns to the White House on January 20 and has repeatedly said he would put paid to the biggest armed conflict in Europe since World War II within a day or two. So, will Russia's war against Ukraine end in 2025? If an end means a durable peace deal, the answer is no, many analysts say in part because Russian President Vladimir Putin doesn't want it, regardless of what he claims, unless it leaves Moscow with a degree of dominance over Ukraine that is unacceptable to Kyiv and its backers abroad. Experts say Putin wants Russia to pose a persistent threat to Ukraine and a challenge to the West, which he casts as the aggressor in a civilizational confrontation. Ukrainians, meanwhile, don't want a peace deal if it means formally handing territory to Russia and giving up hope of holding Russia to account for its crimes against the country and its people. "I think we're very, very far from an end to the war," said Nigel Gould-Davies, senior fellow for Russia and Eurasia at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London. A push for a cease-fire is almost a given, though, in light of Trump's promises to end the war quickly, and negotiations seem more likely than they have since a series of discussions petered out a few months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "The smart money right now is that [Trump] can probably get the Russians and the Ukrainians to talk to both him and each other," Olga Oliker, program director for Europe and Central Asia at the Crisis Group, told RFE/RL. "I think thatwhat we will likely be looking at is some de facto, at least, if not a de jure cease-fire with some degree of negotiation, tacit or explicit, over the course of 2025," Sam Greene, professor at the King's Russia Institute at King's College London and director of democratic resilience at the Center for European Policy Analysis, told RFE/RL. Land And Security There are plenty of pitfalls that could stem from a cease-fire, including the risk that Russia could use it as a chance to regroup and attack again unless effective deterrents and protections for Ukraine are in place. There are also plenty of obstacles to any deal, some of them stemming from seemingly irreconcilable positions on crucial aspects of the conflict. One of them is territory. A cease-fire agreement seems more likely now than it has in the past in part because of signs that Ukraine, which Oliker said is "tired and exhausted and on the back foot" amid slow and enormously costly but persistent Russian battlefield gains, may be prepared for a deal that would leave much of the land Moscow's forces now occupy under de-facto Russian control on a temporary and unofficial basis. But that might not be enough for Putin. He and other Russian officials have said that recognition of four mainland Ukraine provinces in their entirety as Russian -- including large portions that Ukraine controls -- is not negotiable, a position that is unacceptable for Kyiv. An even bigger obstacle is the need for serious, effective security guarantees for Ukraine. Russia is dead set against Ukraine joining NATO: One of the demands Moscow put forward as a way to avert the full-scale invasion was a binding assurance that Kyiv would never become a member. And analysts say the Kremlin is also almost certain to bristle at any arrangement it can cast as the virtual equivalent of membership in the Western military alliance. If Kyiv's Western backers "tried to tiptoe around this, to construct something that had the content but not the form of a guarantee, Putin would make clear that would not be acceptable to him, Gould-Davies said. "It's very, very hard to see what that would look like," he said of a security assurance for Ukraine that would suit both sides. 'His Theory Of Victory' A major focus of discussion in recent weeks has been the prospect of sending Western troops into Ukraine in the event of a cease-fire. But there are disagreements about this in Europe, and Russia would not be happy with it. "The Kremlin will not want to see Western troops, NATO troops, in particular, along that line of control of policing a cease-fire," Greene said, because "Russia will want to maintain the power of initiative. It will want to be the one controlling the dial when it comes to escalation;, it will want to be able to keep everybody else, including the Ukrainians in the West, off balance." "The question is, will [Kyiv and the West] be able to force Moscow into a position where it doesn't have a choice but to accept that kind of an arrangement?" he said. With Russia advancing on the battlefield, its economy apparently far from collapse despite warning signs, and uncertainty about the future of Western support for Ukraine, that prospect seems distant for the time being. "At this point, [Putin] believes that his theory of victory is proving itself, that Russia is just in the long term big enough and tough enough to impose costs and incur costs against the smaller adversary, Ukraine, grind it down militarily, and outlast the West politically," Gould-Davies said. "The thing that could change that and force Putin to take a different view of the future would be if the Trump administration put real pressure, significant major pressure on Putin by threatening costs of continuing the war that would lead Putin to believe that his own regime could be jeopardized," he said. Beyond suggesting he would use levels of aid to Ukraine as levers of influence over both Kyiv and Moscow, Trump has said little about how he hopes to end the war. While he waits for Trump's term to begin, Putin seems to be playing a double game, as he often does, sending contradictory messages in almost the same breath: casting Russia as constructive and prepared for concessions but at the same throwing up barriers to any agreement that might be acceptable to Kyiv and the West. Case in point: At a 4 -hour question- and-answer session live on state TV on December 19, Putin asserted that Russia is ready for compromise on Ukraine -- but also said several things that suggested it isn't. 'Built Around The War' For one thing, Putin portrayed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as an illegitimate leader with whom he would not sign a deal. For another, he once again indicated that the so-called Istanbul Communique, a framework agreement floated shortly before talks between Moscow and Kyiv broke down months into the full-scale invasion, must serve as a basis for any negotiations. "What Putin is saying though is that the terms of that deal, which envisaged an essentially neutered Ukraine -- not just barred from joining NATO, but also demilitarized, and thus a very, very easy target for Russia in the futurehas to essentially be at the center of any future peace deal," Russia analyst Mark Galeotti said. "He's trying to make this process as awkward as possible, while making it sound as if he's as flexible as possible," Galeotti said on his podcast on December 22. Greene suggested Russia might be prepared to "turn down the violence" and consider a cease-fire, but only if Putin is confident that Moscow could continue to threaten Ukraine and keep its standoff with the West, which he has made a defining feature of his rule, simmering along. "The Russian economy right now is only functioning because of the war. The Russian political system is now built around the war. It excuses and explains the level of centralization, the level of repression, the level of ideological control, which are going to be things that the Kremlin will be very loathe, if able at all, to countenance pivoting away from," he told RFE/RL. "Even if Russia were to pivot towards a cease-fire, I think it would find itself seeking to maintain the level of confrontation that it currently has with Ukraine, but [also] with the West more broadly." By Cate McCurry, PA The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris at the age of 98. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside, following decades of seeking justice for his 39-year-old daughter. The beaten body of Ms Toscan du Plantier was found on an isolated pathway near her holiday home at Toormore near Schull, Co Cork, two days before Christmas in 1996. Her elderly parents, Georges and Marguerite Bouniol, often made an annual visit from Paris where they lived to west Cork to mark the anniversary of her murder. They usually travelled to attend an anniversary mass for their daughter with their son Bertrand and Sophies son Pierre-Louis. Mr Bouniols death comes days after the 28th anniversary of his daughters murder. Ian Bailey outside the High Court, Dublin (PA) The main suspect in her murder, Ian Bailey, died in Cork in January earlier this year aged 66. The British journalist was questioned twice by gardai investigating her death, but was never charged for the murder. Mr Bailey has long denied any involvement in her death. Mr Bailey, who lived at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of murder in his absence by a French court in May 2019. The three-judge court imposed a 25-year sentence. In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite him for the murder. In September this year, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that a cold case review into her murder should be completed before any decision on an inquiry was made. The Tanaiste Micheal Martin had also criticised the legal systems handling of the case, saying Ireland failed to find and convict a murderer. 2025 marks 50 years of breeding quality Angus genetics at Bar JV. Bar JV Angus was started in 1975 when Loretta Denowh married Jim Vitt and brought her 4-H breeding project with her. That cow and calf were the foundation that our ranch was built on. In the 50 years since, our operation has grown exponentially, now consisting of 400 registered cows and 200 commercial cows. Our vision remains the same as it was in 1975: to provide cattle that add value to your operation. "Northeastern Montana has such an amazing legacy of agriculture and we at Bar JV Angus feel blessed to have been a part of it for the past 50 years." Normally our cows graze until the weather forces us to feed. We start calving around March 10th, as this allows most of the herd to calve in the pasture unassisted. It is our ideal that the cows are self-sufficient so the cattle are bred to work in any environment. We are also dedicated to finding the right bulls or heifers to match the needs of their customers. Bar JV Angus is also committed to breeding Angus females who produce high performance bulls, with the profitability of the commercial producer at the forefront. Bar JV Angus emphasizes breeding bone, capacity, and length into our cattle, which enables us to handle the amount of growth that is found in today's genetics. This ensures optimal pounds at weaning and will transmit to feedlot performance. Along with length of body, Bar JV Angus also looks for a long neck and smooth shoulders, which ensures calving ease. Calving ease goes far beyond birth weight; it has intentionally been bred into the cowherd. We market our bulls in March, selling 100 bulls and 120 yearling heifers. This year the Bar JV Angus annual production sale will be held on Tuesday, March 25 on location in our sale barn. Many of these bulls are out of our senior sire, Sitz Resilient, a complete herd sire that ranks in the top of the breed in multiple traits. We are proud to be co-owners of Sitz Resilient 10208, at this point he has proven incredibly influential in terms of his ability to produce a uniform set of calves. Three generations of Vitts currently run the operation. Jim and Loretta's son Dale and his wife Jill have been working with us full time on the ranch since 2006. Dale and Jill's son Cody and his wife Sierra joined us in 2017. Cody and Sierra's kids are the 6th generation to live and work on the ranch. Bar JV Angus is located at Sioux Pass, 20 miles NW of Sidney on HWY 16. We are always eager to welcome you to come to the ranch to view the bulls, heifers, or cows. We look forward to showing you our genetics. Find Bar JV Angus on Facebook or visit http://www.barjvangus.com to learn more about our ranch, our herd, and our spring sale. The 2025 sale date is March 25. Hereford cattle have made an impact in the Beery name since 1912 when Lawrence Beery landed in Vida originating from Iowa. He purchased his first Hereford cow shortly thereafter to start the legacy. In the summer of 1929 Newell Beery arrived to help Lawrence and was the first to purchase Hereford cattle to start the Beery's Hereford business. Newell Beery ran cattle and horses throughout the Vida and Richey area for many years along with buying, selling, feeding and finishing cattle. Later partner/son Eddy Beery purchased his first load of registered cows in the late 50s. This was the beginning of Eddy's Hereford business. Beery's held their own production sales on the ranch beginning in the 1970s and continuing until 2004. The family then decided to offer their genetics via private treaty and still do to this day. Newell and Eddy were always passionate about raising good, honest horned Hereford cattle that offered hardiness, feed efficiency, mothering ability and quiet dispositions. Eddy and Joanne raised a family of 5 and ran the ranch together for many years. In 2014, after the passing of Eddy, son Matt, wife Krista, and their two children Ethan and Leah took over the management. Today the ranch is still managed by Matt, Krista, Leah and Ethan with his fiance Ashton Handy. Ethan and Ashton will be getting married Nov. 1, 2025. Even though Matt and his family manage the operation, Joanne is still very much involved and still referred to as the boss. Beery's have also had Madri Blom as herdsman of the cattle since 2008. She also does a lot to help market the genetics as well as build relationships with their valued customers. Throughout the years the Beery's have expanded their cow herd and now offer polled and horned Herefords as well as Red Angus cattle. Two hundred bulls and a select group of females are sold private treaty throughout the surrounding areas. Although the discussion of holding a live bull sale comes about each year, the Beery's appreciate the relationships they've been able to build with their customers and work to meet their bull customer's needs. Such as Newell and Eddy did, the next generation still strives to maintain a uniform set from top to bottom. From the first one in the book to the very last one. Along with uniformity, the Beery's value their customers and offer affordably priced cattle for everyone's budget and offer volume discounts. With their customers bottom line in mind, they breed cattle to add more value and genetic potential to any customers calves. Matt believes each customer who comes to the ranch takes home the genetics they need to work for their operation. Beery's Land and Livestock raises a large selection of bulls that are half and three-quarter brothers to make feeder cattle with consistent performance. As well as siring consistent feeding cattle, Beery's strive to provide cattle with strong maternal genetics, leaving customers with a more desirable female when mated with a diversly bred black hided mamma cow. Hereford genetics have gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to their added longevity, docility, and fertility. The Beery family invites anyone to come to the ranch for a visit, evaluate their genetics, and select their 2025 bull purchases starting in January. They also extend an invitation to the 2025 Montana Hereford Association's Eastern Montana and Western North Dakota ranch tour Sept. 14th-17th. Follow us on Facebook at Beery's Land and Livestock Co. BEERY Herefords or contact us; Matt Beery: 406-979-5720, Ethan Beery: 406-979-5723, Madri Blom (Herdsman): 406-979-5711, [email protected]. Howard Rambur started his herd as a youngster with two crossbred Charolais heifers and a purebred Charolais bull. I got a small loan from the local bank and was on my way to having my purebred business. Of course, Ive been borrowing money ever since, said Rambur, who raises purebred Charolais cattle near Sidney, MT. Even though his father was primarily a sugar beet farmer, young Ramburs interest in livestock was piqued when he began working with cattle as 4-H projects. He wanted to own something different than Angus, and the powerful, white Charolais cattle caught his eye. In the late 1960s, the breed, which originated in eastern France, arrived on the scene in Montana. Rambur decided to make the Charolais breed his lifes work as he admired their outstanding performance and especially found that crossbreeding created a superior bovine. The rancher raised four daughters, with some involved in 4-H, successfully showing cattle at the Richland County Fair as well as helping on the ranch. His grandkids are now being successful showing steers at the same fair, which continues to thrive. While his daughters were growing up, Rambur continued breed improvement. Rambur cows and bulls are raised on the western side of Sidney in some rough country. You need a good horse and dogs to move cattle out there, said Rambur. I find that Charolais have better bone and feet, which causes them to have longevity. I have a lot of customers who are using our bulls up to six years of age, which is double the longevity of other breeds. Although he credits the Angus breed for their tremendous job marketing their meat, Rambur pointed out that crossbred cattle provide hybrid vigor and have been bringing an extra 10% in sale weight. Because of that, not only does he have Charolais bulls, but also an Angus herd. Their bull sale the second Saturday of April is generally well-attended with 80-100 head of Charolais and Angus bulls seeing their way across the auction block. He is curious where the beef prices are going to go. I dont know where this is all going to transition. It will be interesting. Everyone is the cattle business needs to start making money. It shocks me that we are still selling fat cattle the way we are when we need to be moving our meat and product better. With COVID, many of the restaurants are half empty and those were the restaurants that were buying high-end steaks. Even before COVID, but even more so now, people want to know where their meat comes from. More people are looking closer to home, so we are seeing a real shortage of small packing houses to handle the increasing number of ranchers wanting to have cattle locally processed. There are only a few large packers now and you have to play their game as many are foreign-owned. Rambur livestock has expanded their sale opportunities, selling cattle and meat to foreign countries; breeding stock has been shipped to Turkey while fat cattle have been shipped to JBS in Greeley, CO, to be processed for the Chinese market. Rambur talks about how the international connections happened. The Turkish connection started when an exporter driving through Virginia spotted some buckskin (Charolais/Red Angus cross) in a field and asked what they were and their origin. Howard Rambur was contacted, and the Turkish exporters visited three times to develop a plan. The Turkish visitors told me that Montana looked like Turkey. We talked about agricultural production, and it turns out they are very modern, said Rambur. They farm with center pivots and John Deere tractors. At the time we were working out the details, war with Syria was going on and Turkey had an influx of refugees. They realized the need for producing food for an expanding population. Rambur coordinated the shipment of 700 buckskin calves and 900 silvers (Charolais x Angus) with the balance of the load Red Angus and Angus for a total of 2,400. Numerous tests, blood work, papers, and various quarantine sites later, the cattle shipped in early February 2017. The boat ride took 30-plus days. The cattle were dispersed into different areas of Turkey and are being used for breeding stock to help boost the countrys meat industry in future years. As for beef to China, Rambur had been dealing with JBS and they asked him to sign up to send some of his cattle/beef to China.. Although exporting provides another option for cattle marketing, Rambur explained, I get exporters calling me all the time, but the money exchange rate is horrid. Keep in mind when you deal with foreign counties, its good to deal with the same exporter. In addition to raising purebred bulls and sending their livestock across the ocean, a unique service provided by the ranch is feeding bulls in the feedlot. Many custom yards wont accept bulls because theyre, well, bulls. You need to understand the bull mentality, Rambur said. Our RC Feedlot has always fed purebred bulls, performance breeds as well as cull bulls. Rambur Charolais offers a bull buy back. When a customer is ready to change bulls out, we will purchase the culls at a premium, feed them at the RC Feedlot, then send them on to the processors. Rambur explained that feeding bulls as a business happened because of the contacts he had at American Foods where he had previously been a buyer. The RC Feedlot already had experience feeding purebred bulls for production sales, so when he was talking to the people at American Foods, the idea developed for Rambur to feed cull bulls. The ranch is able to put quick weight on bulls, and there is a constant market for them. Bulls are better than feeder cattle because there is a quick turnaround. You feed them for 30 days and theyre gone. I know bulls and I can put quick weight on them. Plus, its a constant market even in the winter and it works well because I have my own trucks. When the processor needs a full load of bulls to kill, I can fill those spots quickly instead of their buyers going to many sale barns. The hard-working rancher hopes his grandkids will continue to appreciate ranch life; they help with various aspects of the ranch, and all have horses to ride when help is needed. We try to get them involved as much as we can. One of my grandsons is 14 and this year he hasnt been in school much due to COVID closings, so he has assisted with calving and wants to learn more from me. He received a beginning rancher loan from Community Bank in Dickinson, ND to purchase five purebred bred heifers. I applaud that bank for doing that, said Rambur. Despite the challenges of juggling the purebred business, running a feedlot, and keeping up with the markets, Rambur said he wouldnt trade ranching for anything. Whether Im working with the cattle, watching my dogs working or having my grandkids join me on the ranch, you cant beat it. We have a fantastic lifestyle. HELENA, MT Montana Stockgrowers Foundations (MSF) Cattle Drive Program continues to grow and is quickly becoming the premier feed out contest in the state of Montana. The Cattle Drive Program allows producers and supporters to donate a steer, or the value of a steer, and watch that donation grow. Donors also receive data on the growth and performance of that steer. MSF is proud to announce that the 2023 Cattle Drive program raised over $220,000. The funds raised will be invested in educational programs, scholarships, leadership development and conservation programs. Donated steers were placed on contest on Feb. 20, 2024. In order to ensure the highest quality beef to program purchasers, each steer was harvested when they were at their optimum weight. Average daily gain was calculated based on the number of days between those dates. The winners for the 2023 Cattle Drive Program are as follows: Top three steers in the average daily gain category First Place: Merck Cattle Animal Health (steer purchased from Veseth Cattle Co.) Second Place: David Schuett, Schuett Farms, Dillon Third Place: Dale and Janet Veseth, Veseth Cattle Co., Malta Following harvest of the steer, each carcass was graded and using the Steer of Merit program evaluation process, a carcass value was determined for each steer. Top three steers in the carcass value category: First Place: Jim Steinbeisser, VS Inc., Sidney. Second Place: Kerry Erickson, Ismay. Third Place: Katelynn Larson and Alexis Dynneson, Dynneson Ranch, Sidney. New this year, an overall champion steer was awarded. This steer placed highest in both contest categories: Overall Champion Steer: Kerry Erickson, Ismay MSF and Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) would like to thank the 2023 Cattle Drive Program donors and sponsors. The 2024 Cattle Drive is currently accepting donations. To participate in the 2024 program, contact Heidi Kool at [email protected] or 406-442-3420. The name Arch Oboler is synonymous with 3D. With his thin retelling of the events surrounding the Lions of Tsavo in Bwanana Devil, he ushered in the first wave of Hollywoods infatuation with three-dimensional cinema. After the fad faded in the late 1950s, the format would live on in sporadic features here and there. But Oboler never got over three-dimensional filmmaking, returning with 1966s The Bubble and wrapping up his feature career with this 1973 travelogue romance Domo Arigato. Our story centers on med-school dropout/former G.I. Doug (Jason Ledger) on his way home from Vietnam encountering wayward American tourist Tara (Bonnie Star). As strangers in a strange land, their chance meeting is a measure of comfort, and the two become companions from one scenic location to the next. As they take in the sights the pair grow closer Doug will learn Taras personal secrets and the budding romance will be tested with their mutual insecurities. In all honesty, theres something difficult about calling Domo Arigato and actual film. As a first-time viewer, the experience of watching this plot unfold left me thinking this was more like Arch Obolers attempt at a working vacation. He gets to tour all of the beautiful locations in Tokyo and the film is merely a means to cover travel expenses. The plot and the script for our lead characters are paper thin, but the photography of the various sights and the psychedelic interstitial effects certainly catch our attention and hold our interest. Part of the issue is its hard to believe Jason Ledger and Bonnie Star as romantic interests. As written Doug is pretty much a jerk at all times, always saying the wrong thing, being offensive, and never really seeming sorry for it. In contrast, Tara is a bit of a wet blanket drip of a character, her motivations are oddly drawn with her own rather silly secret that goes beyond simple diabetes. In between the impressive visuals, we have these moments of character revelation and drama that are pretty undercooked and only work to motivate our lead characters to go and see another spot in Tokyo. As far as Travelogues go, Domo Arigato isnt terrible. The drama might not be the most interesting piece of work ever written, but the visuals and the location are what catch our attention. Think of a recent effort like Lost in Translation. Similar setup, a young woman trying to find herself meets a man trying to figure out what hes done with his life in Japan. The difference between Lost in Translation and Domo Arigato is we like the characters and its not in 3D. That said, I can't help but admit I enjoyed my tour of Japan in Arch Oboler's Domo Arigato, 3D glasses and all. Vital Disc Stats: The 3D Blu-ray 3-D Film Archive and BayView Entertainment return for another pairing for Arch Obolers final 3D Domo Arigato. Pressed on a BD50 disc, the disc is housed in a standard Blu-ray case and comes with one pair of anaglyphic glasses. If youre still rigged up for 3D screening, the digital 3D option should kick in automatically, but it if doesnt the main menu lets you select which option youd like to run. This copy on review is my Kickstarter pre-order. As of yet, the general release hasn't gone live, but as soon as it does, we'll let you know where you can score your copy. Nutrient content should be the number one consideration when purchasing hay. Most of North Dakota received good moisture over the growing season, producing ample hay availability. As a result, the hay market has slowed and prices have dropped, indicating a buyers market. This has some livestock growers speculating whether they should purchase hay now to create a carry-over surplus as a forage insurance policy if forage supplies are tight in 2025. Considering moisture conditions across the state since July have been low and spring moisture conditions are unknown, North Dakota State University Extension forage crops specialist James Rogers says they should buy, provided some caveats be met. First, Rogers advises producers to determine whether the price is good by looking at their own cost per bale of production. Per bale production costs are determined by yield, input costs, machinery and labor. The higher the yield, the lower the per bale cost. It is difficult to produce a typical 1,500-pound bale of hay at a cost less than $40/bale, and depending on crop input costs and yield, per bale cost can go over $100/bale. If the cost of a bale is equal to or less than the cost of production, does that imply its a good buy? Maybe, says Rogers, but bale weights and dry matter content are other key factors. It is best to purchase hay on a per ton dry matter basis. Assuming 100% dry matter, a 1,200-pound bale at $40/bale is $0.033/pound. ($66/T) compared to a 1,500-pound bale at $40/bale is $0.027/pound ($54/T). The nutrient content of the hay should be the number one consideration when purchasing hay. Ask for forage test results prior to purchasing hay, says Rogers. Then you can compare one hay to another based on price per pound of crude protein and energy content reported as total digestible nutrient. This year, due to good spring moisture, hay harvest was often delayed, increasing plant maturity and lowering nutrient content. Reviewing the results from several hay forage tests submitted from the 2024 crop, Rogers sees that a portion of the 2024 hay crop has crude protein levels that dipped down into the 5-6% level and total digestible nutrients (TDN) level below 55%. Hay of this type requires both crude protein and energy supplementation which is a cost that should be added back to the cost of the hay. On the other hand, forage test results also reveal there is plenty of hay from the 2024 crop that is high in nutrient content and therefore requires no supplementation depending on the class of livestock it will be fed to. There is no other way to know this without having it tested. The final consideration is storage and feeding waste. If hay is purchased now, what condition will it be in six months to a year from now when it is fed? Round bale dry matter loss increases linearly with spoilage depth. A round bale that is 6 feet in diameter with a 2-inch spoilage loss around the bale has lost 10% dry matter. At 4 inches this increases to 20% and at 6 inches 30%. Loss due to spoilage is often unaccounted for. If a 1,500-pound bale priced at $0.027/pound loses 20%, or 300 pounds, the financial loss is $8.10 a bale. Round bales wick moisture from the ground leading to dry matter loss when stored outside; this is simply unavoidable. The longer outside storage goes on, the higher the loss, which can reach 50% levels at a year or longer. For long term storage considerations, bales should have a good round shape and are dense with a good wrapping. Storage areas should be well-drained with minimal ground contact if possible. The ultimate long-term storage would be in a barn. If bales are maintained in good condition during storage, little change in nutrient content will occur. Is it a good idea to purchase hay during a down hay market? Rogers says it very well can be if the following is true: - A comparison can be made between on farm cost of hay production and purchase hay cost. - The bale weights and dry matter are known and can be purchased by the ton rather than by the bale. - It has a forage test so that it can be purchased based on cost per pound of crude protein and energy content. - The forage test shows no anti-quality issues such as nitrates or heat bound protein. - It can be stored long-term to minimize storage loss. It is always a good idea to have a surplus on hand as long as it is taken care of during storage. - Feeding losses can be minimized. Jeff Beach North Dakota Monitor https://northdakotamonitor.com/briefs/feds-approve-wildfire-disaster-assistance/ North Dakota is eligible for federal disaster assistance to help recover from historic wildfires in 2024. President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for North Dakota, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said in a news release Thursday. FEMA announced that public assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to help repair or replace facilities damaged by the wildfires in McKenzie and Williams counties. Rural electrical cooperatives in McKenzie and Williams counties sustained damage estimated at $3.7 million during the Oct. 5-6 wildfires, according to the disaster declaration request sent to Biden in November. Federal funding also is available for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Jacob Just, director of communications for the North Dakota Insurance Department, said the agency will work with local fire departments to identify ways to reduce risks and apply some lessons learned from the wildfire response. Additional designations may come if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments, the news release said. A total of 190 fires burned 126,273 acres in North Dakota in October, according to the state Department of Emergency Services. The state fire marshal has ruled that natural gas flares from oil wells combined with high winds and dry vegetation contributed to starting two of the fires. People affected by wildfires can find financial, mental and physical recovery resources at ndresponse.gov/wildfire-recovery. 'Jagjit Singh Dallewal Would Take Medical Aid If...' Punjab AG Informs Supreme Court The vacation bench adjourned the hearing of the contempt petition to January 2, 2024. Supreme Court on Farmers Protest Amid Jagjit Singh Dallewal Hunger Strike Latest News: The Supreme Court has granted the Punjab Government additional time to comply with its directive to provide medical assistance to farmers' protest leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26 at the Khanauri border. The vacation bench, comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, adjourned the hearing of the contempt petition against Punjab's Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) to January 2, 2024. Advertisement Punjab Advocate General (AG) Gurminder Singh informed the court that negotiators and intervenors had visited the protest site and that efforts to ensure compliance involved the deployment of approximately 7,000 personnel. However, he cited traffic disruptions caused by the recent Punjab Bandh as a challenge. The AG also conveyed the protesters' proposal that Dallewal would accept medical aid if the Central Government initiated dialogue with the farmers. Justice Surya Kant responded, "We will not comment on ongoing negotiations. If an outcome acceptable to all sides is achieved, we will be happy. For now, we are only concerned with compliance with our orders." Advertisement The Solicitor General of India, Tushar Mehta, stated that he had no instructions regarding the Punjab AG's submission. The bench issued an order granting the Punjab Government three additional days to achieve compliance, citing "totality of circumstances and the interest of justice." It also required the virtual presence of the Chief Secretary and DGP of Punjab at the next hearing. Earlier, on December 28, the court had expressed dissatisfaction with Punjab's compliance report concerning Dallewals hospitalisation. Advertisement Dallewal, a cancer patient suffering from age-related ailments, began his hunger strike to demand statutory guarantees for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops and other issues. The court had previously directed Punjab authorities to shift him to a temporary or well-equipped hospital, but concerns about "collateral damage" at the protest site delayed action. The court criticized the resistance from farmers and remarked on the "violent face of the so-called agitation." Meanwhile, the Punjab Government urged the Central Government to intervene, though the Solicitor General expressed concerns that such involvement might worsen the situation. (For more news apart from Supreme Court on Farmers Protest Amid Jagjit Singh Dallewal Hunger Strike Latest News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) BSF Recovers Three Pakistani Drones Near Punjab Border The drones were recovered from Rajatal village in Amritsar. Punjab, December 31, 2024: The Border Security Force (BSF) successfully intercepted and recovered three Pakistani drones along the Punjab border in a major operation on Monday. These drones were neutralized using "advanced technical countermeasures," effectively thwarting potential attempts at cross-border smuggling. The drones were recovered from Rajatal village in Amritsar. The BSF Punjab Frontier shared on X (formerly Twitter), "In a significant operation today, BSF Punjab troops recovered three Pakistani drones, including two DJI Matrice RTK 350 drones and one DJI Mavic 3 Classic, from Rajatal village along the Punjab border." Advertisement The BSF further highlighted the success as a testament to its commitment to border security and curbing narcotics smuggling. Pictures of the drones were also posted online. In another operation, the BSF, in coordination with Punjab Police, recovered a heroin consignment weighing 534 grams from Tarn Taran district. The narcotics packet, wrapped with yellow adhesive tape, was found with an improvised metal wire loop and luminous sticks attached to it. The BSF commended the reliable intelligence and collaborative efforts that successfully prevented yet another smuggling attempt. Similar operations earlier this month also led to the recovery of drones and narcotics, underscoring the joint vigilance of BSF and Punjab Police in combating cross-border activities. Punjab Extends Winter Vacation for Schools Amid Cold Wave All schools will open on January 8, tweeted Harjot Singh Bains Punjab School Winter Vacation Holidays Extended Latest News Today: The Punjab government has announced an extension of winter vacations for schools across the state due to the ongoing cold wave. State Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains shared the update on Twitter, stating that all government, aided, recognized, and private schools will remain closed until January 7. "As per the directions of the Hon'ble Chief Minister, due to cold weather, holidays are being observed in all government, aided, recognized, and private schools of Punjab till January 7. All schools will open on January 8," tweeted Bains. Advertisement This decision comes as the region experiences severe cold weather conditions, with dense fog and low temperatures disrupting daily life. An orange alert has been issued in Punjab due to the cold wave and reduced visibility caused by fog. The ongoing snowfall in northern mountainous regions and the anticipated impact of a Western Disturbance between January 1 and 6 are expected to further lower temperatures in Punjab and surrounding areas. Parents, students, and teachers have welcomed the decision, as concerns over the safety and health of children during the harsh weather were mounting. Schools are now set to reopen on January 8, offering some respite as residents brace for continued cold conditions in the coming days. (For more news apart from Punjab School Winter Vacation Holidays Extended Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Taliban Issues Decree Barring Women from Looking Out of Windows This is just the latest in a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban to further isolate women from public and even private life. Kabul, Afghanistan, December 30, 2024: In another oppressive move, the Talibans moral police have issued a new decree banning women from looking out of windows in Afghanistan. The announcement, made by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, claims the measure is aimed at preventing "obscene acts." According to the decree, "Seeing the place where women live, including the kitchen and the bathroom doors, is considered dangerous." Advertisement In cases where a window opens into areas of the home frequented by women, neighbors are reportedly required to close off their view by building walls. The municipality has been tasked with ensuring the laws strict implementation, with the decree going into effect immediately. This is just the latest in a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban to further isolate women from public and even private life. On November 1, another rule banned Afghan women from speaking loudly enough for others to hear, including during prayer. Khalid Hanafi, the Talibans Minister for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, described women's voices as "awrah," meaning they must be hidden and should not be heard publicly. "When women cannot call the takbir or athan [Islamic calls to prayer], they certainly cannot engage in activities like singing or making music," Hanafi was quoted as saying. Advertisement Since their return to power in August 2021, the Taliban have systematically eroded women's rights, banning them from secondary and higher education, most professions, and public spaces like parks and gyms. The United Nations has condemned these measures, urging the inclusion of women in all decisions concerning Afghanistan's future. Asila Wardak, a former Afghan diplomat and member of the Womens Forum on Afghanistan, stressed, "The country's future cannot be built on the exclusion of half its population. Women must be part of the solution, not sidelined." Who Was Faisal Jutt Hanj? Read About 18-Hour Encounter That Shook Pakistan The operation began on Dec 18 afternoon and lasted until 7 a.m. the next day Who Was Faisal Jutt Hanj, Died in Pakistan Encounter? In the past week, Instagram reels have been flooded with videos about Faisal Jutt, also known as Faisal Hanj. One particular clip, featuring what is believed to be his final words, "If he ran away, don't call him Jutt," has gone viral. But who was Faisal Jutt, and what led to the dramatic 18-hour encounter that ended his life? The Encounter in Gujarat, Pakistan On December 18, an intense police operation unfolded in Hanj village, located in the Kakrali police station area of Pakistan's Gujarat district. Faisal Shahzad, a notorious drug trafficker and declared criminal, along with his 20-year-old nephew Safiur Rehman and two accomplices, Naveed Akhtar (24) and Nomi (30), were killed during the standoff. Advertisement The operation began on Wednesday afternoon and lasted until 7 a.m. the next day, involving hundreds of rounds of ammunition, tear gas, and even grenades. Police reinforcements and Pakistans elite force had to be airlifted by helicopter to subdue the suspects. The Rise and Fall of Faisal Jutt Faisal Jutt was reportedly a major drug dealer with significant influence in the region. His rise to power was allegedly facilitated by political connections, a common enabler for expanding drug empires. However, Faisal made a fatal mistake: he was accused of killing an officer of Pakistans elite force and injuring another during a previous encounter. This act made him the prime target of law enforcement. (Who Was Faisal Jutt Hanj, Died in Pakistan Encounter?) How the Standoff Unfolded Police, led by DSP Mutabal, arrived in Hanj village to apprehend Faisal. They began by demolishing the front wall of his house, unaware that he and his associates were inside. As soon as the demolition started, Faisal and his accomplices opened fire, prompting police retaliation. Advertisement Additional contingents of police and the elite force were called in, with heavy firing continuing throughout the night. By Thursday morning, the encounter ended, and police recovered the bodies of Faisal, his nephew, and their two associates. The deceased were taken to Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Teaching Hospital for postmortem. The operation was led by Gujarat District Police Officer Mustansar Atma Bajwa and SP Riaz Ahmed Naz, who had previously demolished two of Faisals outhouses in the village. (Who Was Faisal Jutt Hanj, Died in Pakistan Encounter?) Aftermath and Police Statement The police operation not only neutralized Faisal but also sent a strong message. SHO Haji Sagir Ahmed Bhader of Rehmania Police Station stated in a media briefing, "The police have avenged the killing of an officer. Anyone who attempts to harm law enforcement will face similar consequences." Advertisement A Dramatic End to a Reign of Crime The 18-hour encounter marks the end of Faisal Jutts criminal empire, but it also highlights the lengths to which law enforcement in Pakistan is willing to go to bring criminals to justice. The use of helicopters, elite forces, and sustained firepower underscores the seriousness of the operation and the threat Faisal posed to public safety. The dramatic events surrounding Faisal Jutts life and death continue to capture public attention, with his story serving as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the ongoing fight against crime. (For more news apart from Who Was Faisal Jutt Hanj, Died in Pakistan Encounter? stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Fiscal and budgertary measures at the end of the year The fiscal and budgetary measures adopted by the Government of Romania are contested by trade unions and employers' organisations Marcel Ciolacu (Photo: gov.ro) Leyla Cheamil, 31.12.2024, 14:00 In the last meeting of this year, the Bucharest Government adopted an emergency ordinance on the basis of which the state budget for 2025 will be drawn up. Strongly contested, the document aims to stop state spending and reduce budget waste by one percent of the Gross Domestic Product, which means approximately 19 billion lei. Another goal is to increase budget revenues through the application of the structural reforms provided for in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNNR). Social-democratic Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has stated that Romania got from the European Commission an extension of four to seven years for reducing the budget deficit, and the first step is to reduce it to 7% in 2025. The new year is going to be difficult from an economic point of view, Ciolacu stressed, and, in this context, measures are needed to protect Romania from potentially major financial risks. Among the measures foreseen are the freezing of pensions and salaries in the public sector, as well as state allowances for children. The document also provides for the reduction of the subsidy allocated to political parties by 25% compared to the level granted this year. On the other hand, employment in the public sector will be frozen, and some public agencies will be closed or merged in 2025. At the same time, holiday vouchers will be granted with a co-payment from the employee of 800 lei. The Minister of Finance, Tanczos Barna, has stated that the ordinance also establishes that people working in construction, agriculture and IT must pay tax on their salary. The document adopted by the Government increases the tax on dividends from 8 to 10 percent and introduces a new tax on special constructions. This tax will not be collected in the next 90 days, during which the application rules will be drawn up, and the Minister of Finance will have consultations with the big companies that will make investments in Romania in relation to this tax. Several union and employers organizations expressed their dissatisfaction with the fiscal-budgetary measures adopted by the Executive. Unions from education, public administration and social assistance, as well as the Energy Employers Federation criticized the lack of social dialogue and the haste with which the ordinance was promoted. The unions in education oppose the freezing of salaries, while the employers in the food industry disapprove of the cancellation of fiscal incentives for employees in the field, and the representatives of SMEs are contesting the reduction of the taxation threshold and the increase in the tax on dividends. For their part, students are dissatisfied with the limitation of discounts on railway transport. Police officers in penitentiaries took to the streets to express their disapproval of the provisions of the ordinance. They say that, by applying the new provisions, they will lose up to 30% of their salary. (MI) China will on Tuesday see December results of the manufacturing, non-manufacturing and composite PMIs from the National Bureau of Statistics, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. In November, their scores were 50.3, 50.0 and 50.8, respectively. South Korea will release December data for consumer prices, with forecasts suggesting an increase of 0.2 percent on month and 1.7 percent on year. That follows the 0.3 percent monthly decline and the 1.5 percent yearly gain in November. Australia will provide November numbers for housing credit; in October, credit was up 0.5 percent on month. Finally, the in South Korea, Japan and Thailand are closed on Tuesday for New Year's Eve, while the markets in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Hong Kong close early for the holiday. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. Xi, Putin exchange New Year greetings Xinhua) 13:06, December 31, 2024 BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday exchanged New Year greetings with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to Putin and the Russian people. Xi said that 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic relations, a new significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. In the extraordinary journey over the past 75 years, China-Russia relations have grown more mature and stable, he said. In face of the accelerated transformation unseen in a century and a volatile international landscape, China and Russia always move forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party, Xi said. Over the past year, the two heads of state held three meetings in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan, and maintained communication through phone calls, exchanges of letters, and other means, Xi said, adding that they had candid exchanges of views and reached broad consensus on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues of common concern. The political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have been advancing toward higher levels under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, he added. Practical cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible outcomes, such as the completion of the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline, and the successful launch of the China-Russia Years of Culture has fostered a closer bond connecting the two peoples through generations, Xi said. China and Russia also support each other as chairs of the BRICS mechanism and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), contributing significantly to solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, he added. Noting that 2025 marks the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period and the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, Xi said that no matter how the international landscape evolves, China remains committed to deepening comprehensive reforms, advancing Chinese modernization, and promoting global peace and development. Xi also expressed confidence that China-Russia cooperation in various fields would continue to create new opportunities for growth. The Chinese president voiced readiness to maintain close exchanges with Putin and keep China-Russia cooperation on the right course so as to continue consolidating and deepening China-Russia ties featuring permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation, injecting strong momentum into the development and modernization of the two countries, and contributing to the well-being of the two peoples and safeguarding international fairness and justice. For his part, Putin extended heartfelt New Year and Spring Festival greetings to Xi, wishing the Chinese people happiness and good health. He noted that in 2024, the two countries jointly celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 75th anniversary of their bilateral ties. Recalling his three successful meetings with Xi in 2024, Putin said that they have advanced the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era to new heights. The mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in such areas as economy, trade, energy, transportation, science, and technology is progressing in an orderly manner, and the successful launch of the Russia-China Years of Culture has created more opportunities to expand people-to-people exchanges, he said. Looking ahead to 2025, Putin said that he stands ready to maintain close communication with Xi to jointly promote the development of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, and further strengthen coordination and cooperation on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, the SCO and the G20. Such efforts, he noted, will not only fully serve the interests of the two peoples but also contribute to international and regional security and stability. On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin also exchanged New Year greetings. Li said that under the strategic guidance of Xi and Putin, the two sides have leveraged the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties to promote the sustained, healthy, and stable development of bilateral relations. China stands ready to work with Russia to take the important consensus reached by the two heads of state as a foundation for advancing China-Russia relations and cooperation in various fields to new heights, Li noted. Russia is willing to maintain constructive exchanges based on a high degree of mutual trust with China, Mishustin said, expressing his belief that the consensus reached by the two sides would help elevate bilateral cooperation. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Indian billionaire Gautam Adani's conglomerate is exiting from its food FMCG joint venture, Adani Wilmar Ltd., with its Singaporean JV partner Wilmar International Ltd. in a deal, which is reportedly worth $2 billion. Shares of Adani Enterprises Limited or AEL dropped around 3 percent in Indian trading after it agreed to sell its entire 44 percent stake in the JV in a multi-phased deal. Adani Wilmar shares also were down 6.5 percent on the Bombay Stock Exchange, and 6.3 percent on the National Stock Exchange. Adani Wilmar had a market capitalization of INR 42,785 crores or $5.0 billion as on December 27. The move follows the Adani Group's plan to focus on its core infrastructure businesses. The company expects to use the proceeds from the sale to turbocharge its investments in the core infrastructure platforms in energy & utility, transport & logistics, and other adjacencies in primary industry. AEL said it plans to continue to invest in infrastructure sectors so as to further strengthen its position as a major incubator of platforms in India. AWL, India's largest edible oils and food FMCG company, has 24 factories in 15 cities and a strong distribution network of more than 10,000 distributors. AWL also exports to over 30 countries globally. In a statement, AEL said it will sell around 13 percent in Adani Wilmar to achieve minimum public shareholding requirements, while Wilmar International has agreed to acquire around 31 percent stake in the JV. AEL, its unit Adani Commodities LLP and Wilmar International's unit Lence Pte. Ltd. have entered into the deal. Lence will acquire all the paid-up equity shares of Adani Wilmar held by Adani Commodities as at the date of exercise of the call option or put option, as the case may be, in respect of a maximum of 31.06 percent of the existing paid-up equity share capital of AWL. Further, Wilmar, in its statement, announced that in the deal to buy up to a maximum of 403,739,517 equity shares of Adani Wilmar, option price per equity share will be mutually agreed upon by the parties, subject to a maximum price of INR305. Adani Commodities and Lence each currently own 571.02 million equity shares of AWL, each representing 43.94 percent of the existing paid-up equity share capital, aggregating to 87.87 percent of the equity shares. The balance of 12.13 percent equity shares in AWL is held by public shareholders. As per the Securities and Exchange Board of India, AWL is required to maintain a minimum public shareholding of 25 percent. The sale is subject to customary condition precedents including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. Following the sale, Adani's nominee directors will step down from the Board of Adani Wilmar, and its name will be changed. The planned capital raise comes after the United States recently indicted Adani Group founder Gautam Adani and a few other top executives for their alleged roles in a five years-long, multi-billion-dollar bribery and fraud scheme involving plans to develop a lucrative solar power plant. Though the Adani Group denied allegations made by the U.S. SEC and the US Department of Justice, the stock value of Adani group's listed companies then had fell significantly. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News A study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, identified differences in brain structure in about 1,000 adolescents who used substances before age 15 compared to those who did not. Notably, many of these differences were present during their childhood, even before any substance use, putting them at the risk of substance use initiation later in life, along with influence of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. "This adds to some emerging evidence that an individual's brain structure, alongside their unique genetics, environmental exposures, and interactions among these factors, may impact their level of risk and resilience for substance use and addiction," said Nora Volkow M.D., director of NIDA. "Understanding the complex interplay between the factors that contribute and that protect against drug use is crucial for informing effective prevention interventions and providing support for those who may be most vulnerable." Of the 3,460 adolescents who initiated substance use before age 15, around 90 percent reported trying alcohol, often with nicotine and/or cannabis, whereas 61.5 percent and 52.4 percent of adolescents initiating nicotine and cannabis, respectively, also reported use of alcohol. The researchers from Washington University assessed MRI scans of the participants, when they were aged 9 to 11, followed by a three-year evaluation. They looked into global and regional differences in brain structure, analyzing measures like volume, thickness, depth of brain folds, and surface area, particularly in the brain cortex. Published in JAMA Network Open, the study identified five brain structural differences at the global level and 39 brain structure differences at the regional level in those who reported substance initiation before the age of 15 compared to those who did not. This study highlights how certain brain characteristics influence behavior before any substance exposure occurs. The researchers hinted that future studies will focus on exploring further about the intricate relationship between brain structure, development, and substance use. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Health News The Canadian market looks on course to end the final session of 2024 on a positive note with stocks from communications, energy and materials sectors posting solid gains. Energy and materials stocks have moved higher on firm crude oil and bullion prices. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index was up 117.90 points or nearly 0.5% at 24,738.49 a little while ago. Softchoice Corporation (SFTC.TO) is soaring nearly 13%. Parex Resources (PXT.TO) is up 7.1%, while Cargojet (CJT.TO), Quebecor Inc (QBR.A.TO) and Brookfield Business Corporation (BBUC.TO) are up 4.7 to 5.6%. BCE Inc (BCE.TO), Precision Drilling Corporation (PD.TO), Richelieu Hardware (RCH.TO), Finning International (FTT.TO), goeasy (GSY.TO) and Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ.TO) are gaining 2 to 3.1%. Cogeco Communications (CCA.TO), Cogeco Inc (CGO.TO), BRP Inc (DOO.TO), Sprott Inc (SII.TO), Methanex Corporation (MX.TO), Gildan Activewear (GIL.TO), Atkins Realis (ATRL.TO), Imperial Oil (IMO.TO), Molson Coors Canada (TPX.A.TO), Colliers International (CIGI.TO) and EQB Inc (EQB.TO) are also notably higher. Hut 8 Corp (HUT.TO) is down 4.4%. Celestica Inc (CLS.TO), Onex Corporation (ONEX.TO) and Tourmaline Oil Corp (TOU.TO) are also down in negative territory. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News On December 24, 2024, NASAs Parker Solar Probe soared just 6.1 million km (3.8 million miles) above the surface of our home star, racing through the solar atmosphere at 692,000 km per hour (430,000 mph) the fastest speed ever achieved by a human-made object; a signal received two days later confirmed the spacecraft had made it through the encounter safely and is operating normally. Close to the Sun, Parker Solar Probe relies on a carbon foam shield to protect it from the extreme heat in the upper solar atmosphere called the corona, which can exceed 500,000 degrees Celsius (1 million degrees Fahrenheit). The shield was designed to reach temperatures of 1,427 degrees Celsius (2,600 degrees Fahrenheit), while keeping the instruments behind it shaded at a comfortable room temperature. In the hot but low-density corona, the spacecrafts shield is expected to warm to 982 degrees Celsius (1,800 degrees Fahrenheit). Flying this close to the Sun is a historic moment in humanitys first mission to a star, said Dr. Nicky Fox, the associate administrator of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. By studying the Sun up close, we can better understand its impacts throughout our Solar System, including on the technology we use daily on Earth and in space, as well as learn about the workings of stars across the Universe to aid in our search for habitable worlds beyond our home planet. Parker Solar Probe is braving one of the most extreme environments in space and exceeding all expectations, said Parker Solar Probe project scientist Dr. Nour Rawafi, a researcher at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. This mission is ushering a new golden era of space exploration, bringing us closer than ever to unlocking the Suns deepest and most enduring mysteries. Its monumental to be able to get a spacecraft this close to the Sun, said Parker Solar Probe mission systems engineer John Wirzburger, a researcher at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. This is a challenge the space science community has wanted to tackle since 1958 and had spent decades advancing the technology to make it possible. By flying through the solar corona, Parker Solar Probe can take measurements that help scientists better understand how the region gets so hot, trace the origin of the solar wind and discover how energetic particles are accelerated to half the speed of light. The data are so important for the science community because it gives us another vantage point, said Dr. Kelly Korreck, a program scientist at NASA Headquarters. By getting firsthand accounts of whats happening in the solar atmosphere, Parker Solar Probe has revolutionized our understanding of the Sun. So far, the spacecraft has only transmitted that its safe, but soon it will be in a location that will allow it to downlink the data it collected on this latest solar pass. The data that will come down from the spacecraft will be fresh information about a place that we, as humanity, have never been. Its an amazing accomplishment, said Dr. Joe Westlake, the director of the Heliophysics Division at NASA Headquarters. The spacecrafts next planned close solar passes come on March 22 and June 19, 2025. Decrees issued by Bishop Michael W. Fisher to close or merge Catholic parishes in Western New York make it clear that the sale of parish properties could help fund a settlement in bankruptcy court of hundreds of sex abuse claims against the Buffalo Diocese. Diocese officials have been reluctant to spell out publicly how they intend to raise enough money in settling nearly 900 claims that accuse diocese priests and employees of abusing minors decades ago. But language in Fishers decrees indicates some parishes may have been tabbed for merger so that the proceeds from the sale of their church buildings can be used toward settling claims just as some parishioners had surmised when the diocese first began announcing parish mergers in June. A merger decree issued Dec. 17 for St. Benedict parish in Eggertsville, for example, notes that the diocese gained a more realistic picture of the financial and sacramental situations through a process known as Road to Renewal that grouped parishes throughout the diocese into families. But the decree merging St. Benedict into St. Leo parish in Amherst also highlighted the dioceses ongoing bankruptcy case, which will mark five years at the end of February and already is among the lengthiest diocesan Chapter 11 reorganizations in history. Judge mulls appointment of additional mediator; questions Buffalo Diocese on source of $100M settlement offer Chief Judge Carl L. Bucki of U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of New York on Wednesday said he will consider adding a second mediator to help jump-start stalled settlement talks in the Buffalo Diocese Chapter 11 case. Additionally, due to our need to amass a substantial sum of money to settle numerous civil claims in Federal Bankruptcy Court, the decree reads, the possibility of alienating this property has also been suggested. Under Catholic canon law, alienating is selling or otherwise transferring ownership of a church for another purpose. Even though St. Benedict Church was to remain open as a secondary worship site under the dioceses current merger plan, leadership of the merged parish ultimately will decide whether that happens. The decree stipulates a merger date of May 19. St. Benedict parishioners worry that the decree language leaves the door wide open for their church, located in a prime location at Main Street and Eggert Road, to be sold to the highest bidder, with proceeds from the sale, along with the parishs considerable savings, being used toward a settlement fund. The same language is in Fishers decree from Nov. 12 to merge St. Bernadette parish in Orchard Park into SS. Peter & Paul in Hamburg, effective May 1. The diocese owns several valuable properties, including a former seminary it recently sold for $4.2 million. Proceeds from those sales will be used toward settlement. Parishes are separately incorporated religious not-for-profit organizations, and the diocese does not own parish churches or other parish properties. Still, under the current decree, St. Bernadette also would become a secondary worship site, at the discretion of the SS. Peter & Paul pastor and parish trustees, who answer to the bishop. Parishioner Eugene Hanitz said it confirms what parishioners suspected from the moment St. Bernadette was first identified for closure: that the diocese views the property as valuable real estate it can sell for a healthy profit. St. Bernadette has a healthy financial bottom line and is among the most vibrant and active parishes in the entire diocese, with 1,200 people attending weekend Masses and more than 50 parish ministries, said Hanitz, a member of the parish since 1981. The diocese is grasping at straws. Its a land grab, he said. That is the only rationale that one can come up with to have plans to shut down St. Berandettes and make it a secondary worship site. Closing of St. Michael Church forestalled amid appeal to Vatican The closing of St. Michael Church, a fixture in downtown Buffalo, is being postponed while parishioners prepare a Vatican appeal of the Buffalo Dioceses plan to merge the parish and sell the church. Parishioner Bob OConnor said Fishers decree was a bunch of religious legalese designed to mask the fact that the Diocese of Buffalo, which hid the sins of so many priests for so many years, needs to sell off the valuable land upon which St. Bernadettes sits. It is, and always has been, about money, he added. Diocese officials have said that the marketability of properties was considered in their decisions on which churches to close, but it was not a primary factor. The diocese announced final plans in September to reduce the number of Catholic churches in eight counties from 196 to 118 by June. Mergers would cut the number of parishes from 160 to 79. The mergers and closings are necessary because of an intensifying priest shortage, declining Mass attendance and weakened finances in many parishes, according to diocese officials. Pastor who followed saint's path at Tonawanda church for 4 decades listed as sex abuser by diocese Monsignor Charles A. Klauder, who made St. John the Baptist Church in the Town of Tonawanda one of the largest parishes in Western New York, was quietly put on a list of clergy with substantiated claims of sexual abuse of children. But the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case looms large, as well, as the diocese faces growing pressure to settle nearly 900 sex abuse claims. The dioceses lawyers have said the diocese and its parishes can offer $100 million, with perhaps hundreds of millions of dollars more coming from insurers. And yet, the diocese has just $31.7 million in cash, investments and other assets, not including real estate, according to financial statements filed with the bankruptcy court. That means most of the funds will need to come from parishes. Any funds from a parish merging into another must first be used to pay off existing debt, including anything owed to the diocese, such as regular parish assessments, Legacy Retirement Fund contribution and a future assessment of a contribution to the Catholic Familys portion of our Chapter 11 Federal Bankruptcy settlement, Fisher said in a separate letter to Rev. James D. Ciupek that accompanied his decree for St. Bernadette. Diocese officials have not detailed how much individual parishes will be required to contribute to a settlement fund, or what formula will be used. The diocese so far has sent out about 37 merger decrees and 25 decrees to close church buildings, said spokesman Joseph Martone. Parishioners of at least three churches St. Michael in Buffalo, Ascension in Batavia, and St. Bernadette have submitted formal appeals asking the Vatican to overturn Fishers decisions. St. Bernadette shipped its appeal, accompanied by 1,100 parishioner signatures, on Dec. 23 to the Papal Nuncios office in Washington D.C. It is expected to arrive at the Vatican by Jan. 8, Hanitz said. Parishioners started a separate non-profit corporation to raise money for any legal expenses connected with the appeal, he said. CleanTech Lithium , a company focused on lithium exploration and development in Chile, updated the market on its application for a special lithium operating contract (CEOL) for the Laguna Verde project on Tuesday, as well as its amended 2024 interim financial results, revised in preparation for a dual listing on the ASX. The AIM-traded firm said it remained on track to submit its CEOL application by early January, ahead of the Chilean government's extended deadline of 31 January. It noted substantial progress in assembling the detailed documentation required, which included extensive technical, operational, and financial data from several years of activity at Laguna Verde. CleanTech said it believed it was well-positioned to meet the governments criteria, potentially allowing it to bypass a public tender process and engage in direct discussions with the Mining Ministry. Separately, CleanTech announced amendments to its unaudited interim financial results for the six months ended 30 June. Following an independent review required for the ASX listing, the company revised its treatment of commissions and warrants related to loan notes issued earlier in the year. The board said the fair value of the items was now recorded as part of the loan note liability and amortised over the loan's life, reducing the reported liability to 1.5m from 2.1m, and the operating loss for the period to 2.2m from 2.8m. Other adjustments were limited to typographical corrections, or those resulting from this reinterpretation. At 0901 GMT, shares in CleanTech Lithium were up 2.94% at 17.5p. Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com. UK stocks are expected to fall again on Tuesday, taking their lead from a sell-off on Wall Street overnight and a weak performance on Asian indices, with very little corporate or economic news to provide a catalyst for markets on the final trading day of the year. The FTSE 100 is tipped to open around 20 points (-0.25%) lower than Monday's close of 8,121.01, in what is set to be a shortened session with the London Stock Exchange closing up shop at 1230 GMT. Most major markets across Europe will also be operating a half-day on Tuesday. New York's three main indices all closed with losses of 1% or more on Monday, with the eagerly awaited Santa Claus rally no where to be seen as investors scaling back risk appetite and locking in gains ahead of the year-end. Stocks in Tokyo and Shanghai also closed with heavy losses overnight, while Hong Kong finished flat. "Trading volumes were light, and no doubt this contributed to overall weakness," said David Morrison, senior market analyst at Trade Nation. "European stock indices were mixed in early trade this morning in quiet, low volume trade. There was relatively little activity in FX markets too." The economic data calendar for Tuesday is relatively light, though leading indicators from China out overnight were making headlines. The NBS non-manufacturing PMI rose to 52.2 from 50.0, well ahead of the 50.2 consensus estimate, while the manufacturing PMI fell to 50.1 from 50.3, slightly short of the 50.3 expected. Later in the US session, investors will be watching the S&P/Case-Shiller home price indices and the Federal Housing Finance Agency's housing price index for October. In UK corporate news, logistics firm Bunzl said it would start the first tranche of its 200m 2025 share buyback programme on January 2. The company will buy 50m in shares by March 3 when it releases its annual results. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history on December 30 by successfully launching the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, solidifying its position as the fourth nation to master space docking technology. The mission was launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket from Sriharikota, carrying two spacecraft, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), designed to dock in low-Earth orbit. The PSLV-C60 lifted off with SpaDeX and 24 additional payloads. 'LIFTOFF! PSLV-C60 successfully launches SpaDeX and 24 payloads', ISRO announced on social media platform X. Following the successful separation of the SpaDeX satellites, ISRO marked the achievement as a milestone in India's space journey. Union Minister Jitendra Singh celebrated the feat, highlighting that India has now joined the elite group of nationsthe United States, Russia, and Chinathat have developed and demonstrated space docking capabilities. He referred to Indias indigenously developed 'Bharatiya Docking System' as a breakthrough for future missions such as Gaganyaan and the Bharatiya Antriksha Station. The Bharatiya Docking System features advanced technology, including a docking mechanism, rendezvous and docking sensors, power transfer technology, and an autonomous inter-satellite communication link. These innovations enable the spacecraft to communicate and assess each others states autonomously, demonstrating a novel docking strategy. SpaDeXs success is vital for India's ambitions in human spaceflight, satellite servicing, and space station development. Mastering docking technology is a critical step toward advanced space missions such as lunar exploration and establishing an Indian space station. It will also facilitate missions beyond Earths orbit without relying on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) from Earth. ISRO plans to wait four days to evaluate the docking orientation and assess the software process. The mission will also demonstrate the transfer of electric power between docked spacecraft, crucial for future applications in in-space robotics, composite spacecraft control, and operations after undocking. Additionally, the PSLV-C60s fourth stage, POEM-4, will be used for experiments, carrying 24 payloads from academic institutions and startups. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, is celebrating two decades of partnership since its inception in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. Established as an emergency response mechanism, the Quad has since evolved into a strategic alliance addressing a wide range of regional and global challenges to foster an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. In a joint statement commemorating the milestone, the Quad Foreign Ministers emphasized their foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR). Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, our nations came together to support millions of people affected by one of the worst disasters in history. We honour the memories of those lost and recognize the survivors, the statement read. The initial collaboration saw over 40,000 emergency responders from the four countries providing critical aid. This commitment to HADR remains integral to the Quads mission. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region, the ministers reiterated. Over the years, the Quad has expanded its focus to address complex challenges including climate change, cybersecurity, terrorism, and maritime security. Recent initiatives include enhancing maritime domain awareness, promoting STEM education, and combating cervical cancer through the Quad Cancer Moonshot program. India pledged $7.5 million in testing kits and technical assistance for this effort, with other member nations contributing their own resources. In 2024, the Quad announced several key initiatives, including the Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) to help regional partners secure their waters. India will host the inaugural MAITRI workshop in 2025. A logistics network pilot project was also launched to enhance airlift capacities for natural disaster response, alongside a maritime legal dialogue to uphold rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad reaffirmed its unwavering support for ASEANs centrality, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, recognizing these institutions as vital for regional stability and prosperity. As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, the statement noted. The Wellington Declaration, issued after the Quads fourth in-person summit earlier this year, expressed concerns over 'recent dangerous and aggressive actions in the maritime domain', a veiled reference to Chinas activities in the South China Sea. The Quads unified stance on maintaining a rules-based maritime order underscores its commitment to preserving peace and stability in the region. Reflecting on its 20-year legacy, the Quad highlighted its evolution from a disaster relief initiative to a full-fledged partnership delivering tangible outcomes for the region. What began as an emergency response has grown into a partnership addressing a wide array of challenges, the statement read. Listen to the music. An iconic classic rock group with a string of FM radio hits has announced that it will release its first new album with its core members in 50 years. Patrick Simmons, a founding member of the Doobie Brothers, on Facebook said he enjoyed touring this past year with bandmates Michael McDonald, Tom Johnston and longtime member John McFee. The lineup has recorded their first album together since 1975 and will tour again in 2025, Simmons wrote. Its been a long winding road since those early days but were still working together, doing our best to remain creative, and looking forward to bringing our music to you folks out there again next year, Simmons wrote. He wrote, Heres the goal weve set for 2025. This train keeps rollin down the track and were almost ready to release our new album Walk This Road sometime after the first of the year. We have 10 new songs sung by Tom, Michael, and Pat. The three of us wrote songs and collaborated together. We had a lot of fun recording it and we feel very proud of the results. John McFee added his incredible musical talents as well. Once more we turned to the amazing John Shanks who produced, wrote, and played on the tracks with us. A release date for Walk This Road has not been announced, Syracuse.com reported. Simmons said a new Doobies single will be released in early 2025 with the full album coming in spring or summer. It will be the first album of new music featuring McDonald, Simmons and Johnston since Takin It to the Streets was released in 1975. Johnston left the band in 1977 and McDonald left in 1982, though they reunited with the Doobie Brothers in later years. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers are known for FM radio staples like China Grove, Listen to the Music, Takin It to the Streets, Black Water and the Grammy-winning What a Fool Believes. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday that flags will be flown at half-staff to honor former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at 100. President Jimmy Carter embodied decency and integrity throughout his life of public service, Hochul said. Ill never forget as a teenager meeting him in Buffalo. He was an inspiration to me and so many Americans. Our hearts are with the Carter family during this difficult time. Carter died on Dec. 29 in Plains, Georgia. He is survived by his children Jack, Chip, Jeff and Amy, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Following his death, President Biden signed an executive order on Monday to close all executive departments and agencies of the federal government on Jan. 9 for a day of mourning. Carter will be honored with a state funeral on Jan. 9 in Washington before being buried in Plains, Georgia, next to his wife, Rosalynn, who died last year at 96. Jimmy Carters life Carter was born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, to Earl and Lillian Carter, who owned a peanut farm outside the small town. At 22, Carter graduated from the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and shortly after married Rosalynn Smith, with whom he had three sons and a daughter. In his late 30s, in 1962, he entered state politics, and eight years later, he was elected Governor of Georgia. He went on to become the 39th President of the United States and the 76th Governor of Georgia. Throughout his time in office, the former president established the Department of Education and as an early conservationist, he formally created the Department of Energy. Throughout and long after his presidency, he championed for universal human rights. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Confetti might night be only thing coming down tomorrow night, as heavy rains are expected to move into the city, Long Island and Central New York just as the ball drops. Gov. Kathy Hochul today directed state agencies and urged New Yorkers to take precautions as storms are forecasted to impact New Years Eve celebrations downstate, with possible heavy rain, followed by a winter storm system that has the potential to impact some upstate areas through Sunday. As we ring in the new year, state agencies are prepared to respond to heavy rain and snow, and Im urging all New Yorkers to stay safe by planning ahead and monitoring your local forecast, Hochul said in a media announcement. Those heading to Times Square should expect rain, while upstate residents may face significant snow and strong winds, the governor said. New Yorkers should remain weather aware over the next couple of days and avoid unnecessary travel if conditions worsen. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), Lake Effect Snow will develop east and southeast of Lakes Erie and Ontario on Wednesday night and continue into the weekend. Areas in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Central New York, the Mohawk Valley and the North Country could also see significant snowfall accumulations through Sunday. Residents in these areas are urged to pay close attention to local forecasts and avoid any unnecessary travel, as the combination of snow and strong winds could create whiteout conditions. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the NWS website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert at alert.ny.gov. It is a free service providing critical emergency information to cell phones or computers. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Its only a short amount of time before the new year and before the start of congestion pricing. While many will pay $9 when entering Manhattan once the controversial tolling program starts, there is a schedule for increasing tolls in association with the plan. According to MTA congestion pricing documents, the toll for passenger vehicles paying with E-ZPass can grow to $12 as soon as 2028, and then to $15 as soon as 2031 the original cost of the toll before Gov. Kathy Hochul paused the program in June. Following this schedule, drivers can expect a 33% toll increase once phase one ends after 2027 and another 25% increase once phase two ends after 2030. These increases will remain consistent regardless of how drivers pay, either via E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail. Heres what else drivers need to know before congestion pricing is set to begin next month. Congestion pricing is back?! Yes. In mid-November, Hochul officially reinstated congestion pricing for New York City. At the press conference announcing this decision, the governor characterized her initial opposition to the program as a concern over the high cost for working New Yorkers. What is congestion pricing? Congestion pricing refers to using electronic tolling to charge vehicles for entering certain areas of Manhattan the Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) during peak commuting hours. This aims to reduce traffic congestion and raise money for public transportation upgrades. Revenue generated from the program will be bonded against and to fund around $15 billion worth of capital projects in the citys aging transit systems. What is the Congestion Relief Zone? As part of the $175 billion state budget approved on April 1, 2019, the MTAs Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority will establish the Central District Business Tolling Program. This will charge travelers a fee for driving into Manhattans Congestion Relief Zone, defined as any area south of 60th Street, but excludes certain highways in the area. When will this start? The official start date for the plan, according to Hochul, will be midnight on Sunday, Jan. 5. At that point, the programs myriad cameras will come alive and begin charging drivers a once-a-day fee either through E-ZPass or the Tolls by Mail program. How much will it cost? Drivers entering the CRZ will be paying a fee that varies depending on vehicle type and time of day. During the daytime, defined as 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, drivers with E-ZPass will pay the following: Passenger vehicles (once per day): $9 Motorcycles (once per day): $4.50 Small trucks and non-commuter buses: $14.40 Large trucks and sightseeing buses: $21.60 Drivers without E-ZPass can expect to pay even more come early January. Passenger vehicles will be charged $13.50 and motorcycles will have to pay $6.75 if a driver uses Tolls by Mail. Overnight hours Toll rates will be discounted during overnight hours, which are defined as weekdays from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. and weekends from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. Additionally, Hochul said she wants to lower tolls by 75% overnight to encourage more nighttime deliveries in the city. As such, passenger vehicles with E-ZPass will pay $2.25 and motorcycles will pay $1.05 when entering into the CRZ overnight. Crossing credits Drivers entering the CRZ via the Queens-Midtown, Hugh L. Carey, Holland or Lincoln tunnels will be offered crossing credits against the toll. However, due to the lowered toll, drivers will now be getting crossing credits that are reduced by 40% when compared to the original plan. Drivers who come into the CRZ via the Holland and Lincoln tunnels will receive a $3 credit, while drivers who use the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel or Queens-Midtown Tunnel will receive a $1.50 in credit. Discounts & Exemptions Drivers who make under $50,000 per year will receive a 50% discount on the standard toll for all crossings after their first 10 trips each month. As previously required by state law, emergency vehicles and those carrying people with disabilities will be exempt from the program, with tax credits in place for residents living within the CRZ and earning less than $60,000. The MTA will also offer discounts for people disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from using transit. More information on discounts can be found here. Transportation alternatives Hochul said that the MTA will be adding more service to at least 23 bus routes, putting a high priority on adding more frequent trips for the outer boroughs. Four express bus routes on Staten Island were selected earlier this year for expanded service that coincided with the original start date of the program. These include the SIM1C, SIM4C, SIM23 and SIM24. There were also two routes selected in Brooklyn the BM2 and BM5 lines. In December, two local bus routes the S46/96 and S79 SBS were also selected to get schedule tweaks to shorten wait times and make service more reliable. The funding for these extra buses will come from the transit authoritys Outer Borough Transportation Account, which was created, and fully funded, to provide $50 million a year to improve transportation outside of Manhattan in preparation for congestion pricing. The Buffalo Common Council has agreed to move up to $2 million back into a fund that supports local cultural institutions, just days before the deadline to use the American Rescue Plan money or send it back to the federal government. The Council had originally voted 5-3 to use $19 million in unspent Rescue Plan aid as revenue replacement. But after cultural, music and theater groups came forward to say they had already been promised some of those funds, the city reconsidered. In a special meeting on Monday, the Council voted to take $2 million from the $19 million, and use it to keep earlier promises with groups that had already contracted with the city. I asked my staff to do a double, triple, quadruple check of every contract regarding to the plan and during that process they did discover four contracts that between June and Oct. 1 were executed that were not entered into the tracking system, which resulted in a $2 million addition to the revenue replacement line, or unobligated funds for the amendment that was in front of you recently, Scanlon said. Following the language of the Councils resolution, the money will be distributed as follows: $1 million to the African American Cultural Center, $500,000 to the Colored Musicians Club, $250,000 to Torn Space Theater and $100,000 to Centro Culturale Italiano di Buffalo. The remaining $150,000 was reallocated to a soil remediation project at Father Conway Park in the First Ward neighborhood. Scanlon, who as Council president assumed the role of acting mayor upon the resignation of former Mayor Byron Brown in October, has been working urgently with Council members to ensure that the federal money is spent or earmarked by the end of the year. Any of the funds that arent spent or obligated for a specific purpose must be returned to the federal government at the start of 2025. Scanlon has described a confusing and disorganized system under his predecessor Brown for distributing the $331 million the city received in 2021 as part of the $1.9 trillion federal program to help communities across the country recover from the economic hardships related to the Covid-19 pandemic. As this year drew to a close, Scanlon and Council members discussed using $19 million in unspent funds to fill holes in the citys budget, in what was described as revenue replacement. But once those plans were announced, cultural organizations that had been promised American Rescue Plan money but had gone unpaid asked the Council to reconsider. Scanlons staff and an outside financial firm discovered that millions of dollars remained unspent, and was at risk of being forfeited back to the federal government. In a sometimes contentious process, the Council worked with Scanlons administration to get money that had been promised to cultural groups out the door and moved remaining revenues into a fund to fill budget holes. Two of the groups that were promised money from the Rescue Plan Ujima Theatre and the King Urban Life Center will not receive it, because of what Scanlon described as issues with their paperwork. The mayor has said he will work with the groups to help them find other funding. Niagara District Council Member David Rivera acknowledged the Councils role in earmarking American Rescue Plan funds to revenue replacement in the past, and thanked Scanlon for appearing before the Council to explain the reason for the additional amendment. We want to be part of the solution and we want to make sure that these organizations are made whole, Rivera said. The city is facing difficult financial times ahead, with most of its reserve funds used to plug budget holes in recent years and projected deficits in the tens of millions of dollars. Acting Finance Commissioner Raymour Nosworthy recently told Council members the projected budget gap in the first quarter of the fiscal year was more than $17 million. Brown and the Council had already used more than half of the American Rescue Plan funds for revenue replacement, before voting last week, and after Mondays amendment, to earmark another $17 million for that purpose. Ellicott District Council Member Leah Halton-Pope also thanked Scanlon for appearing before the Council and for working to get documents to them they had requested. However, she said she hopes going forward the administration and the Council can be more deliberative in figuring out what needs to be done in regular sessions to avoid last-minute and rushed decisions. Calling special sessions is a disservice to their constituents, she added. The citizens of this city, they deserve more, Halton-Pope said. They deserve better and I, for one, am going to make sure that Im intentional of how I take votes going forward. University District Council Member Rasheed N.C. Wyatt cast the lone no vote on the amendment to move the funds back to cultural institutions, saying he was not voting against the cultural groups getting the funding they were promised, but that he could not abide the flawed process that had them in another special session to pass another amendment to the spending plan. Im questioning the process, and Im sure well get some information when we find out this process was broken, Wyatt said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Former NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, who resigned earlier this month amid allegations that he demanded sex from a subordinate in exchange for opportunities to earn extra pay, has an unusual tie to Staten Island that dates back to the 90s: he was shot more than 30 years ago during an altercation with two men in New Brighton, allegedly over a love triangle. The Advance/SILive.com previously reported that Maddrey, then 25 and already a cop a Queens resident assigned to the 110th Precinct was off-duty when he suffered the bullet wound outside the Richmond Terrace Houses on June 6, 1993. According to court documents, Maddrey was visiting an ex-girlfriend when he became embroiled in an argument with another man at her apartment at about 11:30 p.m. Prosecutors said Maddrey was inside the building for about an hour longer, and when he came out they contended he was ambushed by the man and his friend, Ishmael Callistro. Police alleged that Callistro fired 14 shots, striking Maddrey in the left wrist. Two trials followed, with both men accused of attempting to murder Maddrey. The alleged rival love interest was acquitted of attempted murder, but convicted of attempted assault and possession of a weapon and sentenced to 2 to 6 years in prison. A Staten Island jury would then acquit Callistro of attempted murder in 1996 but convicted him of attempted assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He was released from prison in 2007, after serving a 7 1/2 to 15-year sentence, but later was sent back to prison after running a car into three officers. From the trials First to be tried was the man painted by his defense as a rival love interest, and who had argued with Maddrey at the apartment of a woman theyd both dated shortly before the violence unfolded. The people do not contend that he pulled the trigger but that he ordered the shooting. He set Maddrey up for the shooting. Fortunately, Jeffrey Maddrey wasnt killed, prosecutors said in the trial. Maddrey told the jury he was in the womans apartment and had an argument because the defendant allegedly beat her. The defense lawyer at trial, Eugene Lamb, claimed in court that his client was not aware Maddrey was a police officer, and that Maddrey took a shot before Callistro pulled a gun. A gunfight ensued that was never intended, Lamb said. Meanwhile, a Housing cop told the jury that she and her partner observed Maddrey run toward their police car displaying his gun and shield saying, Im an officer from Queens, and Ive been shot. Maddrey under fire Recent allegations against Maddrey were brought by NYPD Lieutenant Quathisha Epps who filed a complaint against the city with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, claiming that Maddrey engaged in quid pro quo sexual harassment by coercing her to perform unwanted sexual favors in exchange for overtime opportunities in the workplace. Epps, who holds an administrative post in Maddreys office, said that when she finally pushed back at Maddreys demands, he retaliated by claiming she was abusing overtime, prompting the department to launch a review. Epps attorney Eric Sanders said she was then suspended without pay despite putting in her retirement notice. Ms. Epps has endured profound harm at the hands of individuals who exploited their positions of power for personal gain, Sanders said in a statement. The retaliation she faced for standing up to this abuse underscores the need for immediate reforms to address systemic failures within the NYPD. Epps was reportedly the departments top earner in fiscal year 2024, earning more than $400,000 more than half of it in overtime pay. Sanders said that any overtime his client worked was at the request of Maddrey and approved by him and other department officials. The NYPD declined to comment on the complaint, but Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs office said it is investigating. These are extremely serious and disturbing claims that allegedly occurred at N.Y.P.D. headquarters in Manhattan, Braggs office said in a statement. Maddreys attorney, Lambros Lambrou, in a statement to the New York Post called Epps claims completely meritless. What a convenient time to accuse somebody of misconduct after shes caught stealing time, Lambrou told the outlet. Shes obviously drowning and in the deep end of the pool without a lifesaver. She wants to take down as many people as she can. Chief of Patrol John Chell has been named as interim chief of department, and Philip Rivera will assume Chells duties as the head of the patrol division, the NYPD said. Meanwhile, Maddrey has been the subject of other misconduct allegations, including one from a police captain who says she rebuffed his unwanted advances for years. In an interview with NBC, Maddrey denied all of Epps' allegations. Me and lieutenant Epps worked together... one thing led to another and we had an office fling. Thats all it was, an office fling, he said. Associated Press material was used in this report. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. North Shore residents have one more thing to look forward to with the coming of the new year the grand opening of one of the Islands newest supermarkets. The C-Town Supermarket of Castleton Avenue, located at 1234 Castleton Ave., between Dongan Street and Taylor Street, has opened unofficially in West Brighton, but a mid-January grand opening is planned. Shown is part of the fully-stocked fresh produce section at the new C-Town Supermarket in West Brighton on Monday Dec. 30, 2024. (Staten Island Advance/Mike Matteo)Mike Matteo As store owner Adam Abuzahrieh explained, he planned a soft opening in late November to introduce the store to the community before the start of the holidays. The new, 6,150-square-foot supermarket features a deli counter, a full selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, three on-site butchers for custom cuts, and a meat section with everything from tripe and beef hearts to hot Italian sausages and salmon filets. The meat department has three butchers and offers a range of products, including oxtail, tripe and liver. It is shown on Monday Dec. 30, 2024. (Staten Island Advance/Mike Matteo)Mike Matteo In addition, the C-Town Supermarket has an on-site parking lot accessible from Dongan Street and is located along the S46, S53, and S54 bus routes. And, the supermarket will also offer free delivery, along with discounts for senior citizens and municipal employees, Abuzahrieh said As for the offerings on the shelves, the store owner said he wants to cater to the surrounding community, and is stocking plenty of Latin American and Caribbean products. And any customer that asks us for a certain item that we dont already have in the store, we will bring it in, Abuzahrieh added, after helping a customer find something near the produce section. Here's a look inside Staten Islands newest supermarket, located on Castleton Avenue and shown on Monday Dec. 30, 2024 (Staten Island Advance/Mike Matteo)Mike Matteo Even with the stores official opening a few weeks away, nearby residents already say they are happy about the new supermarket. I think its a really nice place, and its cheap, said Alex G., a West Brighton resident as he walked to the store. Theyre really nice inside, too. When you get in there, they always say Hi. Its really clean in there. Thats why I like going. When asked about the neighborhood reaction, Abuzahrieh said he thinks the store has been well received so far. They thank us, Abuzahrieh said. They say, all we had were little corner bodegas, and they arent fully stocked. They dont have fresh meat. There was no fresh produce here. They called it a food desert over here. FOOD DESERTS Earlier reporting by the Advance/SILive.com looked at locations of food deserts on Staten Island and their affect on public health. Food desert is a term used to describe geographic areas where residents have limited access to fresh, affordable produce due to a lack of an easily-accessible supermarket. The limited availability of fresh produce in food deserts poses a major risk to the immediate and long-term health of residents, studies show, as they are often forced eat cheaper, processed alternatives with low nutritional value. A 20-year-old woman has been hospitalized in Upstate New York after being burned by a flaming drink at a bar. WBNG reports a female customer was seriously injured Friday night when she was served a drink that had been lit on fire at the Courtside Bar & Grill in Binghamton, N.Y. The alcohol combusted, causing a large spurt of fire. The victim was rushed to a local hospital for immediate treatment and then transferred to Upstate Medical in Syracuse, according to the TV news station. She has not been identified. Two other people were treated by medics for alcohol burns at the scene, the Binghamton Police Department said. Police charged 28-year-old Camlyn Lyons of Vestal with unlawful sale of alcohol to a person under the age of 21. Its unclear if other charges may be filed; an investigation is ongoing. An online Reddit post about the incident includes NSFW video, allegedly taken from security footage, showing flames shooting into an unidentified womans face. She appears to run away from the bar with flames still on her chest and head, while another person falls to the floor. Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per week Premium Includes: -- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time. -- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content -- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community -- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week! He grew up as an army brat whose family regularly moved to new bases around the country. His late father, Murray, was a warrant officer first class; his mother, Diane, worked at Target (which later meant Chappel got a staff discount for the thongs used to make a famous Priscilla costume); he has a sister, Melissa, and a brother, Cameron. I spent a lot of time alone as a kid, he says. I wouldnt say I was lonely. I just didnt have a lot of friends. So I got really into insects and flowers and the beautiful things of nature. Pretty charcuterie at Pieno. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos Chappel was also into crafts, including knitting, crochet and digging up clay in the backyard to build a mud-brick house. He was planning to become a botanist until a chance discovery in Melbourne at the age of 14. Its such a cliche, but I found a French Vogue on the Flinders Street Station platform and I opened it and went, Oh, Im going to do this, he says. It was a kind of glamour that Id never experienced. I could see the way the clothes sat on the people and I went, I could do that. Chappel later discovered a family connection, which makes him think there was a genetic aspect to his career. I found out after my family were disappointed that I decided to go to college and do fashion that my grandfather and his father before him were tailors, he says. I wonder if serial killers grandchildren do the same thing. Having started studying at Sydney College of the Arts, Chappel dropped out when he landed a job in TV, designing clothes for the series, E Street. His breakthrough was a wedding dress for Abby Rossiter, played by Chelsea Brown, which caught fire when someone hung it over the incandescent lights of a make-up mirror. Potato and green hash with hot smoked trout. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos Fortunately, Id lined it with calico so it didnt burn all the way through, he says. And, fortunately, I brought all the scraps so I made a decorative panel. That made me realise its a skill that I dont have to try to do; I just do it. In the early 1990s, Chappel was making costumes for drag queens and shorts for the bartenders at the Albury Hotel, then a leading gay venue. I came up with this concept that made everybody look more lunchy than they actually were a built-in shelf, he says. The bigger the lunchbox, the better the tips. The bill. Elliott, then an acquaintance, came in one night, said he was making a film and asked if Chappel would do the costumes. Initially dubious, he and Gardiner designed over the 18 months it took to line up the financing the dazzling costumes that two drag queens (Weaving and Pearce) and a transgender woman (Stamp) wear as they travel from Sydney to Alice Springs in a bus they call Priscilla. Oddly enough, Stephan and I were on totally different pages, Chappel says. He wanted it to be really pretty in a Les Girls [female impersonation] way and I wanted to represent the Sydney drag culture that was around at that time, which wasnt really about looking like a woman. It was to look really interesting with this punk attitude to sexuality. It was a really great time in Sydney for creativity and I just channelled it. When the films success took them to the Oscars, Chappel and Gardiner were certain they were not going to win. They expected the Oscar would go to Frances Queen Margot, which had exquisite costumes compared with our stuff, which was chicken wire and hot glue. But when they arrived at the theatre and took their seats, they realised they were going to win. When they sit you down, they were like you two, dont move, Chappel says. Behind us were all the other nominees, some in giant gowns. I thought, Shes clearly not going anywhere because shes 10, 12 people in. There was no way she was going to get out. And we were in front of them by ourselves. Guy Pearce, Terence Stamp and Hugo Weaving in The Adventures of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert. Credit: Elise Lockwood, National Film and Sound Archive I was like, Oh shit, Lizzie, and she said, Dont say it, youre going to jinx us. When their names were called out, it was like in a war film and a bomb goes off and everything goes white, Chappel says. But it was fun when we were up there. I spoke first and just mumbled then when [Lizzy] started speaking, I got a moment to look at the crowd and there was this feedback loop of joy. I looked at Oprah, and she looked me right in the eyes, and I looked at Tom Cruise, and he looked me right in the eyes, and they were like yaaay. And I was like, Oh my god, Oprah is so excited! Tom Cruise is so excited! It was so wonderful. When a waitress suggests another Aperol Spritz, Chappel is keen. I order a coffee, but its hot, theres no rush to get back to the office and Ive never tried a Spritz. So he sets off after the waitress to order me one, too. Tim Chappel, Lizzy Gardiner and Sharon Stone at the Oscars. Credit: AP Costume design is an art that requires knowing how colours, shapes and textures can evoke certain emotions in an audience, working closely with performers to make sure they are as comfortable as possible. But there are some tricks that Chappel has learnt over the years. If Ive got an actress or an actor whos not feeling super sexy and the character needs to be, I go out and buy them hot underwear something expensive and sexy, he says. They put that on under their office suit or whatever and it changes their whole posture. Only they know its there. Loading For Siegfried and Roy, Chappel has been inspired by the outrageous costumes the real characters wore on stage. Ive tried to jack them up a bit to make them even more outrageous, he says. Weve got a silicon muscle suit for Roy, who was a bit of an alley cat. The funny thing is, it sweats. Every time I get it out, it feels like its alive. One of the characters is Mantacore, the tiger that bit Roy (played by tenor Kanen Breen) during his act with Siegfried (baritone Christopher Tonkin). Mantacore (puppeteered by Thomas Remaili and Kirby Myers, with singing by Russell Harcourt) gets his own aria. Says Chappel: Who knew the tiger would be a countertenor? Stamp, 86, has not been in great health ahead of the Priscilla sequel, says Chappel, whose partner is People With Disability Australia chief executive Sebastiano Zagarella. They took him into a studio and had him shot from every angle digitally. Hes given permission that, if for some reason he doesnt make it, he can still be in the film. A lot of the sequel is seen through Bernadettes [Stamps characters] eyes, and shes got early stages of dementia. But the happy dementia. My grandmother had the happy dementia ... Collection From kebabs in the burbs to flash city wine bars: Where to eat this month Cast-iron pans of seafood rice (pictured) and cheese souffles, souvlaki and kebabs in the suburbs, high and low pasta bowls and more dishes to try in Melbourne this month, whether youre back at work or enjoying an extended summer staycation. Two people have been rushed to hospital after a large tree branch fell on them near Melbournes Shrine of Remembrance. Police said two men and a woman from Sydney were leaving the Shrine and walking down steps towards St Kilda Road when they were struck just before 1.30pm on Tuesday. One of the men, aged 21, and a woman, aged 57, were taken to hospital with suspected serious but non-life-threatening injuries, police said in a statement. The second man, aged 56, was lucky to escape with a few scratches. The backlog of international students contesting their visa refusals has doubled in five months to surpass 20,000 for the first time, creating a headache for the federal government as it struggles to meet its migration targets. More than 3500 foreign students challenged the Home Affairs Departments decision to refuse them a visa between October 14 and November 30. In that time, just 313 cases were finalised, leaving a backlog of 21,471 cases in the Administrative Review Tribunal. This is roughly double the 10,905 cases that were waiting to be dealt with on June 30. Data shows most students whose visa appeals were finalised in the latest six-week period were successful. Credit: Penny Stephens The bottleneck means student visa appeals are now taking a median time of 46 weeks to run through the system, allowing applicants to stay in Australia for almost an extra year while their cases are finalised. A photograph of the youngest victim of the plane crash in South Korea has emerged showing him staring out of an aircrafts window. Ko Yoonwoo was pictured travelling to Bangkok with his parents on what was his first holiday abroad. He was killed when his return flight, a Jeju Air plane with a total of 181 people on board, crashed on Sunday. Ko Yoonwoo, three, was pictured on board a plane as he travelled to Thailand with his parents (pictured left) Jin Lee Seon and Kang Ko. The three-year-old died alongside his parents Kang Ko, 43, and Jin Lee Seon, 37. The picture of Yoonwoo had been posted by his father on Instagram alongside other holiday snaps of the family. An earlier post showed the toddler at the airport next to his passport. Syria authorities name HTS military chief as transitional defence minister Damascus, Dec 31 (AFP) Dec 31, 2024 Syria's new authorities announced on Tuesday that the military chief of the Islamist group that spearheaded the offensive that toppled longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad had been appointed defence minister in the transitional government. "The General Command announces the nomination of General Murhaf Abu Qasra as defence minister in the new government of the Syrian Arab Republic," said a statement carried by the official news agency SANA. Abu Qasra, 41, a former agronomist, led the armed wing of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) for five years. As commander of the Islamist rebel forces, he played a key role in the offensive that ousted Assad on December 8 after a lightning advance from north Syria to the capital Damascus. On Sunday, Abu Qasra was given the rank of general in a decree from HTS chief Ahmed al-Sharaa, now Syria's de facto leader. Some other key positions in the transitional government, headed by Mohammad al-Bashir, have already been filled. Bashir, who led the rebels' self-proclaimed "Salvation Government" in their northwestern Idlib bastion, was made interim prime minister until March 1. In an interview with AFP on December 17, Abu Qasra used his real name for the first time after years of going by his nom de guerre Abu Hassan al-Hamawi, which referenced his native Hama region in central Syria. He said in the interview that HTS would be "the first" to dissolve its armed wing and integrate into the national forces, demanding that other groups do the same. Abu Qasra also said that the new leadership would seek to extend its authority to semi-autonomous, Kurdish-held areas in Syria's north and northwest. In the interview, Abu Qasra called on the international community to "find a solution" to repeated Israeli strikes and an "incursion" into Syrian territory in the wake of Assad's fall. Leader Sharaa has also criticised Israel's military action, which he said "threatens a new unjustified escalation in the region". But he noted that "the general exhaustion in Syria after years of war and conflict does not allow us to enter new conflicts." US repatriates Guantanamo detainee to Tunisia Washington, Dec 31 (AFP) Dec 31, 2024 The US Defense Department said Monday it had repatriated to Tunisia one of the remaining detainees from the Guantanamo Bay military prison. Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi was one of the first prisoners sent to Guantanamo Bay, which was hastily opened in 2002 under president George W. Bush, according to the New York Times. He was found eligible for transfer "by a rigorous interagency review process", a Defense Department statement said. "In consultation with our partner in Tunisia, we completed the requirements for responsible transfer." There now remain only 26 prisoners in the facility, the statement said. At its peak about 800 were incarcerated at the site in the eastern tip of Cuba. The detention facility, run by the US Navy, was created after Bush declared a "war on terror" following the 9/11 attacks. The conditions at Guantanamo Bay have prompted consistent outcry from rights groups, who accuse the US of committing torture and other human rights abuses inside its razor-wire perimeter. UN experts have condemned it as a site of "unparallelled notoriety". US President Joe Biden pledged before his election to try to shut down Guantanamo, but it remains open. The Defense Department said 14 of the 26 who remain imprisoned are eligible for transfer. bur-sn/jts THE NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY Senegal president says no more 'foreign military presence from 2025' Dakar, Dec 31 (AFP) Dec 31, 2024 Senegal's President Bassirou Dioumaye Faye said that 2025 would see an end to all foreign military presence in the west African country, in a speech on Tuesday to mark the new year. Faye's statement came a month after he announced that former colonial master France would have to close its military bases in Senegal. "I have instructed the minister for the armed forces to propose a new doctrine for cooperation in defence and security, involving, among other consequences, the end of all foreign military presences in Senegal from 2025," said Faye, who was elected in March. This is the first time he has set a date for the closure of foreign military bases. "All of Senegal's friends will be treated like strategic partners, within the framework of open, diversified and uninhibited cooperation," said Faye. The president, who took office in April, was elected on a promise to deliver sovereignty and end dependence on foreign countries. On November 28, he told AFP that the presence of French military bases in Senegal was incompatible with that sovereignty. "Senegal is an independent country, it is a sovereign country and sovereignty does not accept the presence of military bases in a sovereign country," he said, some 64 years after Senegal's independence from France. He however maintained that the act did not constitute a break with France, like those seen elsewhere in west Africa in recent years. "France remains an important partner for Senegal for the investment for Senegal and the presence of French companies and even French citizens who are in Senegal," said Faye. We know that this will be hugely disappointing to all hoping to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh and that people travel from around the world to be here. Customer service from point of purchase will be in touch with ticketholders directly with further instructions regarding refunds in due course. I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed and an excuse for poor behaviour I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed He said: The assembly welcomes this honour as a broader recognition of the importance and value of our regional democratic structures, and hopes the mayor uses the status granted by this honour to further advocate for Londoners with partners in the UK and overseas. Putin is believed to be seeking to seize as much territory as possible before Donald Trump becomes US president again on January 20, having claimed he could end the Ukraine conflict in a day. The celebration doubled as a 25th birthday party for the London Eye, which provided the centre point for the fireworks, with the message to honour our history and never give up hope for our future. His work not only reflects his dedication to healthcare improvement, as evidenced by the transformation of NIAS over very challenging years, but also establishes him as a role model who inspires other leaders within the sector, with whom he works collaboratively for the betterment of patients. Gun violence out of control in U.S. 13:16, December 31, 2024 By Chen Zi ( People's Daily Online Cartoon by Tan Xiguang In 2024, the U.S. still remains engulfed in the shadow of gun violence. According to the Gun Violence Archive, as of Dec. 22, there had been 493 mass shootings in the U.S. Over the same time period, gun violence has resulted in 16,283 deaths and 30,847 injuries. Gun violence continues to plague American society. Donald Trump was injured in a shooting during a campaign rally, and Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealth Group, was gunned down. Each gunshot only adds fuel to the fire of the deep-rooted wounds in American society, making healing even more challenging. The struggle between gun ownership and gun control has reached an impasse, and the chronic disease of gun violence in America remains unaddressed. (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) News / National by Staff reporter Police have launched an investigation into the growing number of disciplinary camps popping up across the country, with a focus on a camp named Matrix, which has raised significant concerns. The camp, run by Tafadzwa Chidawa, has attracted attention from both parents and law enforcement after receiving complaints from concerned citizens.National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the investigation, stating that authorities would look into the legal status of the camp, including whether it is properly registered and operating within the country's legal framework."We need our police officers to go on the ground and find out the status of this thing which we are referring to, checking for things like, is it registered? Who is running it? So definitely, we need officers to go on the ground," said Nyathi. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the country's laws, adding, "We need to check and ensure that the law takes its course on illegal activities, if any."The Matrix camp has sparked mixed reactions from the public. While many parents view it as a necessary intervention to address issues such as drug and substance abuse, indiscipline, and moral decay among teenagers, there are concerns about the camp's approach, particularly regarding children's privacy and the overall treatment of participants.The camp, which caters to young people aged 7 to 24, primarily targets teenagers struggling with issues such as drug abuse, truancy, theft, disrespect for authority, and early sexual engagement. Most of these challenges are linked to the increasing prevalence of drug use, which has become a serious concern among the youth.Despite the positive feedback from parents who see the programme as a much-needed solution, concerns have been raised regarding the balance between discipline and the rights of the children involved.Police are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and the investigation into Matrix will determine whether it is operating legally or if there are any violations of the law. News / National by Staff reporter A man accused of impersonating a State security agent, Shepherd Mangoma, appeared before Harare Magistrate Ruth Moyo on Friday facing charges of impersonation, fraud, and theft of trust property. Mangoma allegedly defrauded a local farmer, Kudakwashe Mbaura, by promising to help him acquire a farm in exchange for payments.Mangoma, who allegedly misrepresented himself as an employee of the President's department and produced a fake ID card, was granted bail of US$300 after his appearance in court.The court heard that on August 12, 2021, Mangoma approached Mbaura and claimed he could assist in acquiring a farm. He asked Mbaura to identify an area of interest, and Mbaura chose the Grange area in Odzi, Manicaland. Mangoma then demanded US$450, claiming the money would be used to pay "bosses" who could facilitate the acquisition.Believing Mangoma's story, Mbaura traveled to Harare and handed over the requested funds. However, the fraud continued over the next two years, with Mangoma repeatedly convincing Mbaura to make additional payments for various farm-related costs. These included money for farming equipment, transport, tractor repairs, and even fees for Zanu-PF officials and security guards.Between August 2021 and November 2023, Mbaura paid a total of US$27,724 and ZWL$66,000 to Mangoma on multiple occasions. At times, Mangoma allegedly had his accomplices, Madondo and Obert Mpofuwho remain at largecollect the payments on his behalf.Despite numerous promises, Mangoma failed to deliver any documents or a farm offer letter, and Mbaura eventually requested a refund. In response, Mangoma allegedly threatened Mbaura with death if he pursued the matter further.In February 2024, when Mbaura was arrested in Mutare, Mangoma allegedly contacted the detectives handling the case and falsely claimed to be employed by the President's department. Mangoma offered to help Mbaura find a lawyer and convinced him to pay US$900 for legal assistance. However, Mangoma never followed through, instead converting the money for personal use.Mbaura eventually discovered Mangoma's previous arrest for similar offenses through social media and reported the matter to ZRP Mutare Central. The case was referred to CID PACU for further investigation.As of now, nothing has been recovered from Mangoma, and the case continues to unfold as authorities pursue further investigations. Judge Cristina Ardeleanu with the Bucharest Court of Appeal rejected on Tuesday the case brought by Calin Georgescu in connection with the annulment of the presidential elections. "The court rejects the request, as amended and specified, as being formulated against a person without passive procedural status. It rejects the suing, as amended and specified, as unfounded. With appeal, within 5 days since the ruling, which can be submitted to the Bucharest Court of Appeal. Pronounced today, December 31, 2024", the Court's ruling reads. The solution posted on the courts' portal is much larger and refers to the exceptions and requests of Georgescu's lawyers, but also of the other parties in the case. The debates in this case took place on Monday, for more than six hours, but the Court decided to postpone the ruling by a day, after several requests to recuse the case magistrate were rejected. Thus, Georgescu's lawyers requested the recusal of judge Cristina Ardeleanu, on the grounds that she would not be impartial, because she is the wife of a prosecutor who works for the National Anticorruption Directorate and that she allegedly gave a verdict during the case. Calin Georgescu and the Coalition for the Defense of the Rule of Law sued the Central Electoral Bureau and several institutions: the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff of Defense, the Government, the Prosecutor's Office with the High Court of Cassation and Justice, the Constitutional Court, the Romanian Intelligence Service, but also the president Klaus Iohannis and Elena Lasconi. The main object of the file refers to the annulment of two decisions of the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) by which the entire electoral process was annulled and the resumption of the presidential elections from scratch was ordered, based on the decision of the Constitutional Court. "I hope for a professional justice and not a political justice", Calin Georgescu said on Monday, upon leaving the courtroom. On December 6, the Constitutional Court annulled the results of the first round of the presidential elections, won by Calin Georgescu, based on documents declassified by CSAT, received from SRI, SIE, MAI and STS. The documents of the secret services show that Georgescu violated the electoral legislation on the financing of the campaign for the presidential elections, after he reported zero expenses to the Permanent Electoral Authority, given that the SRI and the MAI indicated that the financing of the campaign on TikTok was carried out by Bogdan Peschir and it amounted to one million euros. Also, the documents declassified by CSAT said that there were actions by a state cyber actor on IT&C infrastructures supporting the electoral process and that Romania is a target for aggressive Russian hybrid actions. According to SIE, Romania "has become a priority for Russia's hostile actions, there is a growing interest in the Kremlin to influence (at least) the mood and agenda in Romanian society in an electoral context". These actions are manifested through propaganda and disinformation, supporting Eurosceptic candidates and fueling anti-system movements, including by "involving them in protests that shape the public agenda", encouraging dissatisfaction/provoking emotional reactions at the level of the population, so as to put pressure on the authorities to reduce/stop support for Ukraine. AGERPRES News / National by Staff reporter A 30-year-old man from Mutare will spend the next 12 years behind bars after being convicted of armed robbery for stealing a bicycle at gunpoint.Josiah Saungweme, from Bvirindi B under Chief Zimunya, was found guilty of the crime following a full trial before a Mutare magistrate.The robbery occurred on September 9, 2024, along the Marange-22 Miles road. Prosecutors presented evidence that Saungweme approached the complainant, a 17-year-old villager, under the pretense of asking for directions. As the complainant was riding his silver Buffalo bicycle, Saungweme suddenly brandished a Blow F92 pistol and demanded the bicycle.Faced with the threat of violence, the victim handed over his bicycle. A police report was filed shortly after the incident, leading to the swift arrest of Saungweme.The court sentenced him to 12 years in prison for the armed robbery, underscoring the seriousness of the offense and the danger posed to the community. The Bucharest Court of Appeal on Monday postponed decision on the challenge filed by former candidate Calin Georgescu against the annulment of the presidential election. "I want to thank Romanians who waited here today for this decision, who waited in the cold, who endured. After 35 years, I believe that Romanian deserves justice. I was stunned to watch how none of the defendants had any proof, none, zero. They declined any procedural clause, which means that they also decline their presence here. Besides that, a couple of days before, former president Klaus Iohannis himself said that there was no actual proof, only suspicions. Therefore, after all that what said here today, the Court decided to return with a final judgment, in the shortest while, it's not clear exactly when. We expect a fair and just result for the dignity and honour of the Romanian people. I am very grateful for everything that happened here today and I want to thank the Romanian people who came here in such a large number (...) We have already made history, considering how the Romanian people proved his unity. I place my hope in a professional justice and not a politicized one," stated Georgescu, upon exiting from the court room. Georgescu's lawyer explained that the court postponed a decision on the merits in the context in which the magistrates need to solve several challenges against the judge that was appointed for this case, Cristina Ardeleanu. The court session started around 2 pm on Monday, with more than 1,000 supporters of Georgescu waiting outside, with flags and vuvuzelas, chanting against the current political power and singing patriotic songs. However, at a certain points, the session was interrupted, after Georgescu's lawyers filed a challenge against judge Cristina Ardeleanu claiming that she can't be impartial, in the context in which she is the wife of a prosecutors from the National Anti-Corruption Directorate (DNA). "It was not the Tik Tok that won, but my narrative (...) You be the lion who defends the Romanian people!" Georgescu told the judge. In parallel with the session at the Court of Appeal, the Capital City Police informed that it opened a criminal case for "abusing a public officer" against a man who posted threats on Facebook against judge Cristina Ardeleanu. The man who posted the message is Catalin Berenghi, a former fighter in the Foreign Legion. Calin Georgescu and the Coalition for the Rule of Law sued the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) and several other institutions: the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Staff, the government, the Prosecutor's Office attached to the high Court of Cassation and Justice, the Constitutional Court, the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI), and also president Klaus Iohannis and former presidential candidate Elena Lasconi. The file mainly refers to the annulment of two decisions taken by BEC annulling the entire electoral process and deciding to resume presidential election from scratch, based on a decision of the Constitutional Court. On December 6, the Constitutional Court annulled the results of the first round of the presidential election won by Calin Georgescu based on documents declassified by the Supreme Council for Country Defence (CSAT), received from the SRI, the Foreign Intelligence Service, the Ministry of Interior (MAI) and the Special Telecommunications Service. The declassified documents showed that Georgescu broke the electoral law by declaring zero funds spent during his electoral campaign with the Permanent Electoral Authority, while the SRI and MAI found that his campaign was financed by Bogdan Peschir with one million euros. moreover, the same declassified documents revealed cyberattacks by a foreign state against IT&C infrastructure supporting the electoral process and that Romania was a target for aggressive hybrid actions by Russia. According to SIE, Romania "became a priority for the hostile actions of Russia, in the context of an increasing interest in Kremlin in influencing (at least) the mood and agenda in the Romanian society during the elections." These actions were actions of propaganda and disinformation, supporting Euro-skeptical candidates and nursing anti-system movement, including through "their involvement in protests shaping the public agenda," encouraging the dissatisfaction/provoking emotional reactions among the population, in order to put pressure on the authorities to reduce/stop the support for Ukraine. Romania is a stable, democratic, secure and pro-European country, a reliable partner for its foreign allies, reads the end of 2024 message conveyed by President Klaus Iohannis on Tuesday. "We are concluding a complicated year, with many achievements, but also with challenges, both for each of us and for Romania. Now, at the end of 2024, my message, in which I believe with all my conviction, remains this: Romania is a stable, democratic, secure and pro-European country, a reliable partner for our foreign allies," Klaus Iohannis affirms in his message, according to a press release of the Presidential Administration. The president emphasizes that in the past year Romania has made significant economic progress and achieved important goals, such as full Schengen accession and visa-free travel for the United States. "Romania has continued on its positive path and has narrowed the gap with EU countries. Living standards and incomes continued to rise in 2024, even though the external context was not at all simple. At the same time, however, against a backdrop of justified discontent in our society, we are at a watershed moment, a moment of essential choices. To overcome it, we need to strengthen solidarity and regain confidence in the political class. Only if we preserve our democracy and the values that have defined us as an authentic part of the European family will we get through this difficult stage and continue to accelerate Romania's development and modernization," Klaus Iohannis said. The president went on to point out that "2025 will be an extremely important year for our future and for the generations to come". "The political class needs to show that it has learned the lessons of 2024 and respond with concrete and swift action to society's needs. It is more than ever the time for maturity and for assuming responsibility, for genuine reforms, not mimicked, and for reconstruction based on real, undisguised respect for the citizens whom those elected are called to represent," reads the president's message. Iohannis urges Romanians not to lose hope that Romania can be kept on its pro-Western path. "History has repeatedly shown that the spirit of our nation cannot be defeated. Those who now want to divide us and turn us back to a dark past, which no Romanian wants any longer, will not succeed. And they will not succeed because our strength lies precisely in our unity and in our common belief in freedom and democracy. Romania is, however, the responsibility of each of us and of all of us together. Therefore, in the New Year, I urge you to regain our trust and never lose hope that, together, we can keep Romania on its pro-Western path, guided by the fundamental principles and values that define us - justice, freedom and democracy, for which our fellow human beings have paid the supreme price. I wish you all a better New Year, full of joy and fulfillment! Happy New Year!," reads the message conveyed by president Klaus Iohannis. ST. LOUIS A dozen candidates filed by Tuesdays deadline to run for three seats on the embattled St. Louis Board of Education but not incumbents Natalie Vowell or Matt Davis, who said serving had been a long tough fight. Aprils election comes at a tumultuous time for St. Louis Public Schools following the ouster of a new superintendent for wasteful spending. Davis, the boards vice president, said his nearly four-year term has proven a hardship for his family and his job as an attorney. While Im certainly looking forward to getting back to a sense of normalcy, I am torn by a feeling that Im giving up on a very righteous cause, Davis wrote Tuesday on Facebook. Board member Natalie Vowell also said Tuesday she will not run after serving for eight years. I wish the remaining and incoming board members the best of luck in seeking solid governance practices that work for them, the Districts leadership, educators, and most importantly our students and families, she said in a Facebook post. That makes the boards president Antionette Toni Cousins the only incumbent to seek reelection. The SLPS board faces scrutiny for its oversight of ex-Superintendent Keisha Scarlett, who gave jobs and contracts to friends and made at least $88,500 in questionable credit card charges from July 2023 to July 2024, according to a recent audit from accounting firm Armanino. An additional $53,567 in charges not covered by the audit were made on the credit card issued to the boards executive assistant Shameika Henry. The card was used for more than $2,900 in Amazon purchases and nearly $2,000 for meals where Henry was not present. Henrys charges also included airfare and hotels for Cousins seven trips to conferences in Boston, Washington, San Diego, Atlanta and Dallas including three flight upgrades, a violation of district policy. Cousins also regularly attended dinners with Scarlett and interim Superintendent Millicent Borishade, including at 801 Chophouse in Clayton, where $3,613 was charged on district-issued cards over six visits. Cousins has not responded to questions about her reelection campaign or expenses linked to the board. In addition to an ongoing state audit, the challenges for the SLPS board in the next year include a projected $35 million budget deficit, a school bus shortage, dozens of staff vacancies and calls to close half-empty schools. The current board is in disarray, with only one member who trusts their colleagues, according to a recent self-evaluation conducted by the Missouri School Boards Association. The anonymous survey also showed that all board members believe they follow the norms for conduct, but their fellow members do not. Aside from Cousins, the other candidates for the three contested board seats are: Krystal Barnett: CEO of Bridge 2 Hope, a parent advocacy group supported by charter school funder Opportunity Trust. Barnett is one of two candidates supported by Coalition with St. Louis Kids, a group founded by former charter school leader Chester Asher. Tavon Brooks: A Realtor and site supervisor for Mission: St. Louis, an anti-poverty nonprofit. Brooks ran an unsuccessful campaign for city alderman in 2021. Karen Collins-Adams: Director of the Rising Teachers alternative degree program at St. Louis University, former principal in Hazelwood School District and wife of longtime former SLPS Superintendent Kelvin Adams. Zacheriah Davis: Teacher at Cardinal Ritter College Prep high school in St. Louis, also taught in SLPS from 2014 to 2018. Davis is the second candidate on the Coalition with St. Louis Kids slate. Allisa (AJ) Foster: 2016 SLPS graduate. Foster completed the 2024 school board fellowship program through Opportunity Trust. David Jackson: SLPS board member from 2007 to 2015. Brian Marston: Web developer at Washington University, SLPS parent of two children, former director of YouthBuild job training and alternative education program. Robert Mason II: CEO of DoubleWolf Enterprises real estate development and former paralegal with St. Louis city and county. Mason serves on boards for Dutchtown South Community Corporation and Annie Malone Children and Family Services. Bill Monroe: Retired police officer, charter school founder and former SLPS board member. Teri Powers: Former Democratic committeewoman for the 24th ward. Powers ran an unsuccessful campaign for alderman in 2019. Andre Walker: Financial analyst with Walker Wealth Management. Walker owns a rental car business. December 31, 2024: In Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, one of the enduring problems since the end of World War II in 1945 is the difficult and often rebellious tribes in the north. One of the more troublesome tribes are the Arakan in northwest Burma. There, Rakhine state has been turning into a war zone where the Arakan are gaming ground as they battled their way south for over five years. The Arakan people are predominant in Rakhine state. Until 1990 this area was called Arakan State. The Arakan militias want their state back and by this year they had taken back most of Rakhine with most of the soldiers defending that area killed or missing. The missing soldiers were usually deserters who changed into civilian clothes and joined the growing number of civilian refugees fleeing the fighting. Myanmar Army efforts to suppress the tribal forces have not only failed but the fighting has spread to most of Rakhine state. Soldiers have been fighting the Arakan Army/AA rebels in the area since mid-2019 and periods of active combat have been increasingly common in the last few months. Not a lot of casualties but enough armed men shooting at each other to make life miserable and the economy weaker. The traditional army tactics initially worked in Rakhine and neighboring Shan states. The usual approach was to use a combination of artillery fire and advancing infantry to push AA rebels away from roads or other areas the army wants to control, at least temporarily. The rebels have adapted to that and taken advantage of growing anger throughout Rakhine state at the army. This is the result of several years of increased violence that is largely the fault of the army. Part of this is due to the army campaign to drive hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Moslems into Bangladesh. Nearly a million Rohingya were pushed out of Rakhine in the past decade, and the government has not cooperated with Bangladesh and the UN to allow the Rohingya to return. That means Rakhine state has lost about 30 percent of its population and nearly all its Moslems. Before all the anti-Rohingya violence started in 2011 Rakhine state had long been the poorest state in Burma. The economic situation got worse and worse through 2018 as the economy of Rakhine state was hurt badly by the population losses and disruption of economic activity in general. While the rest of the country saw an improved economy since democracy returned in 2011, its been quite the opposite in Rakhine and the remaining tribal militias have shown a preference for fighting the army rather than just submitting to the growing poverty and chaos. The violence in Rakhine never escalates into what might be considered heavy combat. It is a war of skirmishes. There have been a lot more skirmishes over a wider area in the last few years. In that time several hundred thousand civilians, mostly rural villagers, have been driven away by the fighting and the army's reliance on lots of firepower. Rakhine state only has about two million people so that many refugees is a heavy burden. The escalation began in mid-2018 as the army increased its efforts to impose control on Rakhine and Chin states along the west coast. A major reason for all this army effort is the army attempts to tax illegal enterprises established by tribesmen. The tribes have been mistreated by the military for so long it is difficult to generate a lot of trust and put an end to the armed resistance. So the army decided to try more emphasis on brute force. This posed some special problems in Rakhine state because of the AA rebels. Unlike most tribal militias in the north, the AA was never given official recognition, in large part because the AA was more of a gangster operation than just tribal rebels. All this police activity was unpopular but at least it was less arbitrary and lawless than what the army does. Soldiers tend to torture and kill people they pick up or kidnap. That sort of behavior has always been illegal but now some violators are prosecuted. AA leaders believe they are winning and have established base camps and a headquarters in Rakhine state. The AA and their ally the KIA/Kachin Independence Army have joined forces to recruit and train local men to resist the army. Together the two rebel groups have over 10,000 armed men. In nearby Shan state, the army has been fighting KIA/Kachin Independence Army forces. Efforts to seize KIA base areas in the forests have failed. The AA and the KIA are long-time allies and have joined forces to recruit and train local men to resist the army. This combined force of over 20,000 well-armed troops is expensive to maintain and the rebels pay for it with all manner of legitimate and illegal money-raising schemes. News / National by Staff reporter Trade promotion agency ZimTrade is encouraging Zimbabwean farmers to seize the opportunity presented by China's growing fruit import market, which could generate much-needed foreign currency for the country.According to the 2024 Trade Map report, China was Zimbabwe's third-largest export market in 2023, accounting for approximately 23% of the country's export destinations. Exports to China were valued at an impressive $1.7 billion, highlighting the immense potential for local farmers to expand their businesses and diversify their product offerings to meet the demands of this expansive market.The data reveals a gap and significant opportunity for Zimbabwean farmers to diversify their fruit offerings. China's top fruit imports include durians ($6.7 billion), cherries ($2.6 billion), bananas ($1 billion), mangosteens ($730 million), grapes ($518 million), citrus fruits ($446 million), kiwifruit ($493 million), longan ($454 million), dragon fruit ($320 million), and plums ($280 million), among others."With Zimbabwe's favorable climatic conditions, there is ample room for farmers to introduce new products that could appeal to Chinese consumers. For instance, tropical fruits like durians and mangosteens could thrive in Zimbabwe's environment, while kiwifruit and dragon fruit are already being cultivated in Matabeleland South, where sunny conditions are ideal for their growth," said ZimTrade.ZimTrade also pointed out that South Africa, the leading African exporter to China, has captured a significant market share by exporting nuts worth $246 million and citrus fruits worth $190 million. This success serves as a powerful reminder that Zimbabwean farmers have the potential to tap into this lucrative market by enhancing their individual capabilities, forming cooperatives, and collaborating as a nation to strengthen export capabilities.To successfully enter the Chinese market, farmers will need to navigate a complex regulatory landscape. ZimTrade emphasized the importance of obtaining market access approval from China's General Administration of Customs (GACC). This process includes meeting China's food safety and phytosanitary standards, complying with pesticide residue limits, ensuring proper labeling, and maintaining product traceability.By leveraging these opportunities, Zimbabwean farmers could contribute significantly to the country's export revenues while meeting the demands of one of the world's largest and most diverse consumer markets. Marines at Recruiting Station Houston graduate from their Advanced School Seminar on June 21, 2024. A new senior noncommissioned leadership school pilot program will merge career and advanced schools for staff sergeants and gunnery sergeants, streamlining their training time, according to the service. (Ryan Pulliam/Marine Corps) Marine Corps staff sergeants and gunnery sergeants will begin attending the same leadership school for promotion to the next rank under a pilot program that will merge their respective schools. The creation of a single program to teach leadership skills, tactics classes and other aspects of their roles is intended to lessen the time those Marines spend away from their units. The program consolidating the Career and Advanced schools will begin in the spring, a Marine Corps administrative message said. While the change is being referred to as a pilot program, it appears likely to become permanent. The administrative message issued this month stated that the existing format offering separate resident schools will sunset in February 2025, while distance learning programs will be available until June 2025. The new senior noncommissioned officer leadership school will be offered in two formats, online and in person. The online version will last 15 weeks, and prerequisites will be updated. The distance course will be run through the Fort Worth, Texas, region beginning in March 2025 and be offered to Marines who cant attend in person. The course sites are at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va.; Camp Lejeune, N.C.; Camp Pendleton, Calif.; and Camp Smedley D. Butler on Okinawa. For the resident version, instruction will begin in April and is shortened to seven weeks. Staff sergeants and gunnery sergeants who have already completed current requirements are exempt from attending the new program, according to the statement. A third option is a two-week format available for Marines of those two ranks who are individual ready reservists or get mobilized as individual augmentees. Through the (school), our SNCOs are equipped with the tools to not only lead more effectively but to mentor and guide their Marines through the complexities of todays operational environment, Sgt. Maj. Stephen Griffin of the Training and Education Command said in the Dec. 23 statement. The change was intended to balance the needs for education and occupational training, Griffin said. Timelines for classes beginning in the 2026 academic year starting in July have not yet been announced. A Navy contractor tests a water sample as part of real-time monitoring at the Navys Red Hill well in Aiea, Hawaii, in April 2022. (MarQueon A.D. Tramble/U.S. Navy) FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii The University of Hawaii announced Monday it had begun pre-enrollment in its Red Hill Registry, which is intended to provide support and resources for those impacted by the Navys 2021 jet fuel spill on Oahu. Those wishing to pre-enroll will be asked to provide contact information, activities as related to the fuel spill, current location and main concerns they wish the registry to address, the university said in a news release Monday. Enrollment is open to anyone affected by the spill regardless of a connection with the military. A form to pre-enroll is at www.RedHillRegistry.org. Full enrollment is expected to begin this summer. The registry, operated by the universitys Office of Strategic Health Initiatives project, is being funded by a five-year, $27.2-million federal grant from the National Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. The registry will also track and study the health status of participants over time in order gain greater understanding of long-term effects from jet-fuel exposure. A spill in November 2021 from the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, located a few miles from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, contaminated one of three wells used by the Navy for its water distribution system for military communities on and near the joint base. Thousands of residents were temporarily relocated during the following months as the Navy sealed off the system from the contamination and flushed the pipes. Many residents, however, consumed and bathed in the tainted water in the wake of the contamination. Some complained of rashes, headaches, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. Hundreds have joined a lawsuit in federal court seeking compensation. The trial for the first 17 bellwether plaintiffs in the civil suit Feindt vs. United States took place in May in Hawaii. U.S. District Court Judge Leslie Kobayashi has not yet issued a decision. That case, however, underscored the need for better understanding of the long-term effects of human exposure to jet fuel. During pretrial motions, Kobayashi disallowed expert testimony about long-term illnesses caused by jet-fuel, saying that only animal studies had been conducted. Animal studies, standing alone, do not demonstrate that a specific Plaintiffs exposure to jet fuel caused that specific Plaintiffs injuries, Kobayashi wrote in an April 9 order. Human studies on the effects of jet-fuel exposure are feasible and necessary, according to a report prepared by the University of Hawaii earlier this year under a requirement by the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2024. Exposure to jet fuel through the drinking water to the general population is unprecedented and little is known about the potential health effects, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, the report states. It was presented Sept. 23 to the Committees on Armed Services of the House and Senate. Existing studies are too few and too limited in scope to generalize findings, the report states. Given the infrastructure that is in development by the Registry, numerous epidemiological studies, including those that are broad in scope or very specific, are indeed feasible following a questionnaire-based or modeling-based exposure assessment, the report states. An F-35 Lightning II fighter is silhouetted on the flight deck as the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson pulls into Port Klang, Malaysia, Dec. 29, 2024. (Nathan Jordan/U.S. Navy) The USS Carl Vinson pulled into Port Klang over the weekend, marking a Navy aircraft carriers second visit to Malaysia in as many months after a 12-year pause, according to the Navy. The carrier and its strike group, which includes the guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton and guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett and USS William P. Lawrence, arrived at the port near Malaysias capital, Kuala Lumpur, just after sunrise Sunday, according to a Navy news release that day. A spokeswoman for the carrier declined Tuesday to say how long the Carl Vinson would remain in port, but it may welcome the new year there. Navy port calls vary in length, but a four-day stay by an aircraft carrier is common. The USS Abraham Lincoln made a four-day port call Nov. 23 at Port Klang, the first U.S. carrier to stop there since 2012. The same carrier also stayed four days at Guam in August. During their stay, sailors with the Carl Vinson strike group will volunteer with animal shelters and the Pure Life Society, a home for orphans and underprivileged children, carrier spokeswoman Lt. Cmdr. Devin Arneson told Stars and Stripes by email Tuesday. A carrier strike group may include approximately 7,500 sailors and Marines. The two carrier visits to Malaysia this year mark the 10th anniversary of a comprehensive partnership with the U.S. that began in April 2014, according to the release. The Carl Vinsons visit is meant to reinforce the importance of that partnership, Arneson said. The visit will build upon our strategic and mutually beneficial partnership, while also providing our Sailors well-deserved downtime to explore the rich cultural offerings of Kuala Lumpur and build connections within the community, she said. Dawn breaks as the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson pulls into Port Klang, Malaysia, Dec. 29, 2024. (Nathan Jordan/U.S. Navy) The Carl Vinson last visited Malaysia in January 2011, Arneson said. The back-to-back visits of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and the USS Abraham Lincoln to Malaysia underscore the depth and strength of our security ties, U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan said in the release. The Carl Vinson and its strike group departed their homeport, Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., on Nov. 18 for a scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. The group conducted flight operations in the Philippine Sea in December, including flights with six additional F-35C Lightning II aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5, based in Japan, according to posts on the carriers Facebook page Dec. 14 and 15. The carrier transited the Surigao and Balabac straits in the Philippines, according to a Dec. 24 Facebook post. The group was operating in the South China Sea before arriving in Malaysia, according to Navy photos online and Facebook posts on Thursday. The Abraham Lincoln was the first U.S. carrier to visit Malaysia since the arrest of Leonard Glenn Francis also known as Fat Leonard who orchestrated a decade-long scheme to bribe U.S. Navy officials. The Department of Justice said Francis swindled the Navy out of more than $30 million. Port Klang was among Francis pearl ports, named for their profitability in the scheme. Francis, the former head of Glenn Defense Marine Asia, pleaded guilty in 2015 to bribery, conspiracy to commit bribery and conspiracy to defraud the United States. He was sentenced in November to 15 years in prison for paying off more than 30 Navy officials with cash, prostitutes and luxury travel to secure lucrative contracts. Memorial posters for members of the Sikh Nation including Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara. (Alana Paterson for The Washington Post) LAHORE, Pakistan Shortly after 12:30 p.m. on a sweltering day last April, two masked gunmen walked into a working-class home in Lahore, identified a 48-year-old man known as Tamba and fired three shots at close range into his chest and leg, according to a Pakistani police report. The assailants then sped off on a Honda motorbike, leaving Tamba in a pool of blood on the second floor. Tamba, whose real name was Amir Sarfaraz, had old enemies. The gangster had been accused of beating an Indian intelligence agent to death inside a Lahore prison in 2011 while both men were serving time on death row, but he was released, cleared of charges. Outraged Indian authorities suspected that Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence agency, or ISI, had hired Tamba to carry out the jailhouse murder, according to a former Indian official, and now, thirteen years later, they seemed to get their revenge. Soon after, Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told reporters that there had been several recent killings that showed signs of Indias direct involvement. Referring to the Tamba case, he added, The pattern is exactly the same. The incident appeared to be the most recent example of what Pakistani officials call a striking development in the long-running shadow war between the two South Asian rivals. Although India and Pakistan have long used militant groups to sow chaos in each others country, Indias intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), has since 2021 deployed a methodical assassination program to kill at least a half dozen people deep within Pakistan, according to Pakistani and Western officials. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cast himself as tougher and more willing to take on Indias enemies than any other leader since Indian independence. Since last year, Indias relations with Western governments have been rocked by allegations that RAW officials also ordered the assassination of Sikh separatists in Canada and the United States operations that appeared to be an outgrowth of a campaign first tested and refined in Pakistan. The Washington Post examined six cases in Pakistan through interviews with Pakistani and Indian officials, the militants allies and family members, and a review of police documents and other evidence collected by Pakistani investigators. They reveal the contours of an ambitious Indian assassination program with marked similarities to the operations in North America. In Pakistan, the killings were carried out by Pakistani petty criminals or Afghan hired guns, never Indian nationals, officials said. To aid deniability, RAW officers employed businessmen in Dubai, a regional commercial hub, as intermediaries and deployed separate, siloed teams to surveil targets, execute killings and funnel payments from dozens of informal, unregulated banking networks known as hawalas set up in multiple continents, according to Pakistani investigators. But the RAW also at times used sloppy tradecraft and poorly trained contractors, mirroring what was observed by U.S. and Canadian law enforcement. The killings in Pakistan typically targeted the alleged leaders of two United Nations-designated terrorist groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad which have been accused by India of attacking Indian troops or, years ago, Indian citizens. The Sikh separatists who were targeted in Canada and the United States, Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Gurpatwant Pannun, were also designated as terrorists by India, although Western officials and analysts have disputed the persuasiveness of the Indian evidence against them. Many details of the Indian operations in Pakistan have not been previously reported. Pakistani and Indian officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence activities and ongoing investigations. The killings are a delicate subject in Pakistan because they call into question the counterintelligence capabilities of its security services and Pakistans claims that it does not shelter terrorists. But some Pakistani officials now argue that as India under Modi grows into a world power, it should be exposed for carrying out extrajudicial killings with impunity. Even before the U.S. and Canadian allegations came to light, ISIs director general, Nadeem Anjum, in 2022 had raised serious concerns about Indian assassinations to CIA Director William J. Burns, said a former Pakistani official. Our concerns arose independent of the U.S. and Canadian investigations, said a current Pakistani official. Can India rise peacefully? Our answer is no. Indias Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment for this article. But in the past, Indian officials have neither confirmed nor denied their role in specific killings and maintained that assassinations are not part of Indian policy. These officials, at the same time, often point out that Pakistan and Western countries have refused to extradite terrorists despite India providing evidence of their crimes and that numerous Islamist militants in Pakistan have been killed by the United States, primarily in drone strikes. After India passed a stringent anti-terrorism law revision in 2019, its home ministry began publishing a list of designated terrorists, which has occasionally been updated. A review by The Post found that 11 out of 58 names on the current list have been reported killed since 2021 or were targeted since then. The Post counted at least ten other men who were not on the most-wanted list but have been accused by India of militancy and died under similar circumstances: bullets fired at close range by unknown gunmen. The Tamba case demonstrates the difficulty of penetrating the shadowy struggle between the two rival intelligence agencies with certainty. While the police report said Tamba had been killed and some Pakistani officials said so as well, several others familiar with the case reported he had survived, and one person who said he had been briefed by security officials even said that Pakistan had faked Tambas death to fool an RAW handler into divulging the next target on the hit list. Since the late 1990s, when India and Pakistan both declared themselves to be nuclear weapons states, each country has pondered how to undermine the other with plausible deniability and without risking an all-out war. In 2014, the current Indian national security adviser, Ajit Doval, said it was unrealistic to invade Pakistan but that India should use covert means to punish Pakistan for backing militant groups that attack Indian troops and civilians. We can defend ourselves by going to the place from where the offense is coming, Doval told a university audience. Pakistans vulnerability is many, many times higher than Indias. A violent history The conflict between India and Pakistan reaches back to the bloody partition of British India in 1947, when both of the newly independent countries laid claim to Kashmir. In the ensuing decades, Pakistan backed Islamist extremists who sought to drive India out of that mountainous, Muslim-majority region, while India tried to undermine Pakistan by arming ethnic separatists in its Baluchistan and Sindh provinces. In the late 1990s, Indian Prime Minister I.K. Gujral curbed many of Indias covert operations inside Pakistan as bilateral relations thawed. But Lashkar-e-Taiba, a militant group widely believed to be backed by Pakistani intelligence, carried out an attack in 2008 that killed 175 and wounded more than 300, and U.S. Special Forces assassinated Osama bin Laden in Pakistan in 2011. After that, senior RAW officials pushed for operations to kill high-level individuals inside Pakistan, said a former Indian official and a senior government adviser. In 2012, V.K. Singh, an Indian Army general who led a group that conducted small-scale bombings inside Pakistan, sought to assassinate the Kashmiri militant leader Syed Salahuddin in Pakistan, a former Indian official said. (Salahuddin remains alive.) One former Pakistani official said Pakistan believed India also played a role in the 2013 shooting outside an Islamabad bakery that killed Nasiruddin Haqqani, who had been suspected of bombing the Indian embassy in Kabul. But it wasnt until 2021, two years after Modi had won reelection while touting his tough-on-Pakistan bona fides, that a spate of targeted killings began. That June, a Pakistani man hired by Indian intelligence in Dubai detonated a car bomb outside the security perimeter of a Lahore compound that housed Hafiz Saeed, the Lashkar-e-Taiba leader, but the blast failed to reach Saeed, according to Pakistani and Indian officials. After that, the operations gained pace and precision. Instead of bombs, the RAW seemed to prefer pistol-wielding gunmen. Instead of top leaders, India pursued less guarded militants. Covert killings Eight months after the blast targeting Saeed, assassins shot Zahoor Mistry, who had murdered an Indian passenger during the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight in 1999. Pakistani officials, citing confessions extracted from four suspects apprehended later, said the operation to kill Mistry was elaborate: A woman calling herself Tanaz Ansari, believed to be an alias for an Indian intelligence officer, recruited two Pakistanis to track Mistry, two Afghan nationals to shoot him and three people living in Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East to funnel at least $5,500 to Pakistan to pay those involved. In the hours before the slaying, Ansari urged her Pakistani agent on the ground, Sheraz Ghulam Sarwar, to confirm Mistrys identity and precise location. Sarwar bombarded Mistry with WhatsApp video calls, claiming to be a customer service agent from a ride-hailing app, according to screenshots from Mistrys phone reviewed by The Post. Mistry rejected several video calls and replied, I didnt book any ride. Minutes after that, Ansari messaged Mistry herself. Five days later, Ansari struck again, killing Syed Khalid Raza, a militant leader active in Kashmir in the 1990s, according to Pakistani officials. This time, they said, Ansari tapped Muhammad Ali Afridi, a Pakistani man she had first recruited in 2018 over Facebook, to track Razas routine for several days, purchase a pistol for two hit men and finally, bury the weapon in a riverbed after Raza was slain. In tense WhatsApp exchanges that were obtained by Pakistani authorities after they apprehended Afridi and reviewed by The Post, Ansari agonized over whether it was risky for Afridi to approach a security guard in Razas building to ask about his whereabouts. But she demanded that Afridi send photos confirming Razas identity, saying she otherwise lacked permission from higher-ups to green light the operation and pay him. At one point, the two discussed another target Ansari was struggling to locate within the Defence Housing Authority neighborhood of Karachi, Pakistan. Pakistani officials say they never ascertained Ansaris real identity. (Neither Afridi, who is awaiting trial, nor Sarwar could be reached for comment.) But Razas murder, which was carried out in February 2023, seemed to foreshadow at least two operations that Western officials say were launched by Indian intelligence that spring. Plots in the West Around the same time, according to details laid out in a U.S. federal indictment, a RAW officer in New Delhi named Vikash Yadav directed an assassination attempt on Pannun, a Sikh separatist living in New York. The officer instructed his agent, a businessman named Nikhil Gupta, to hire a local assassin. Like Ansari, Yadav directed from afar, seemed pressured for time and made remarks that suggested the existence of an extensive operation to eliminate a long list of targets. But unlike in Pakistan, U.S. prosecutors said the New York plot was quickly foiled after Gupta unwittingly asked a DEA informant to introduce him to a hit man. Canadian officials, at the same time, said they also uncovered a sprawling Indian campaign to surveil, intimidate and even kill Sikhs. While criminal elements were employed, as in Pakistan, Indian diplomats stationed in Canada were also enlisted to monitor members of the Sikh diaspora, according to Canadian officials, who cited the diplomats private electronic conversations and text messages. Its unclear how those conversations were obtained. Christopher Clary, a professor of political science at the State University of New York at Albany who has studied the alleged Indian operations, said the RAWs record with targeted killings seemed to mirror that of Israels external intelligence agency, the Mossad, which successfully carried out assassinations in less-developed countries but whose agents were caught by hotel surveillance cameras while carrying out a 2010 operation to kill a Hamas leader in the modern city of Dubai. One read is [the RAW] had been succeeding in Pakistan for a full year before they start developing this effort in the West, Clary said. But the tactics, techniques and procedures that worked pretty well in Pakistan didnt necessarily work in the West. Kashmiri tensions spike Ever since U.S. and Canadian officials discovered the alleged plots in their countries, Western officials and analysts have wondered why India would take the risk of assassinating Western citizens associated with a Sikh separatist movement that poses no immediate threat of violence. The calculation concerning Pakistan, security analysts and Indian officials say, was different. In several cases, India targeted the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad and their rebranded offshoots, which remain active in the Kashmiri insurgency. Since 2019, Indian Army officials say at least 50 Indian soldiers have been killed by fighters from Pakistan who infiltrated the mountainous areas near Kashmir, including the Poonch River Valley. These incursions ticked up shortly after Modi infuriated Pakistan and many Kashmiris by fulfilling a long-sought promise of his Hindu nationalist movement by revoking Kashmirs semiautonomous status and bringing it under New Delhis direct control. A key financier of the attacks, said an Indian counterinsurgency official, was a Kashmiri named Mohammed Riyaz Ahmed, who fled to Pakistan in 1999 and raised funds through Islamic charities associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba. In September 2023, a young man fired a bullet into Riyazs head as he knelt to perform predawn prayers inside a mosque in the portion of Kashmir controlled by Pakistan, and five days later, the Resistance Front, the group allegedly funded by Riyaz, struck back. On Telegram, the group released a video denouncing Riyazs assassination and celebrated their revenge attack in Anantnag, in Indian-controlled Kashmir, that killed an Indian policeman and three army officers, including a colonel. Pakistan goes public And yet the RAW was undeterred. Four weeks later, a group of men led by a laborer named Muhammad Umair shot Shahid Latif, whom Indian officials had accused of carrying out a raid against an Indian Air Force station in 2016 that derailed a diplomatic outreach between Modi and his Pakistani counterpart, Nawaz Sharif. This time, the RAW faced a different kind of blowback. After his arrest, Umair confessed that he had been dispatched from Dubai to personally kill Latif after his co-conspirators had become frustrated with several failed attempts, said two people with knowledge of the matter. According to them, Umair gave up the location of a Dubai safehouse, and before long, Pakistani agents in Dubai broke into the apartment, where they obtained a trove of intelligence but didnt find its two Indian tenants: Ashok Kumar Anand Salian and Yogesh Kumar. (Umair could not be reached for comment.) Until that point, Pakistan had rarely acknowledged the Indian operations. But at a news conference in February, Pakistani Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi held up scans of passports belonging to Salian and Kumar and accused them of directing the murders of Latif and of Riyaz one month earlier. India dismissed Qazis claims as false and malicious anti-India propaganda. Attempts by The Post to locate Salian were unsuccessful. In April, he made his only public appearance in an interview with a pro-government Indian television channel. Wearing dark sunglasses inside a spartan New Delhi apartment, Salian said he was an ordinary business owner in Dubai and employed a Pakistani worker at his cybercafe who might have done things without his knowledge. He denied any connection to the RAW. After Pakistan arrested him, they must have seen who was his sponsor in Dubai, Salian said. I feel aggrieved that my details are being highlighted and my reputation damaged. Salians alleged accomplice, Kumar, also could not be located. Anmol Gora, a dairy business owner from the village in Rajasthan state that is listed as Kumars birthplace, said Kumar had not been seen there in five years. Residents said he was living in Dubai, Gora said. People in the village say he was involved in some shady business, which is why he just disappeared, Gora said. Domestic dividends Pakistan began to publicly call out India this year after what Pakistani officials said was a series of assassinations that seemed to pay domestic dividends for the Modi government. By late last year, many Indian pro-government television channels were running glowing programs marveling at the RAWs extraterritorial reach and efficiency. Pakistani officials were particularly galled by Indian news reports that emerged almost immediately after some slayings. In many cases they celebrated before even our police knew they were killed, an official said. A day after the Guardian published a report on assassinations in Pakistan this year, Modi without explicitly confirming any slaying boasted during a campaign rally of entering [Indias enemies] homes and killing them. Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, who Canadian officials say was named by Indian diplomats in their private conversations as the senior government official who directed the covert efforts, was similarly blithe. Whoever did the killings, whats the problem? Shah said in a television interview. The agency will do their jobs. why should we interfere? Srinath Raghavan, a prominent Indian military historian and former army officer who served in Kashmir, said the Modi government has publicized special forces raids inside Pakistan and encouraged the production of Bollywood films that glamorize Indias clandestine operators. The whole tagline is, This is the New India, Raghavan said. The Modi government came in with the view that you need to strike back, and you need to signal publicly that youre doing it. Its aimed at telling Pakistan that were willing to come and hit hard, but it also has a domestic component. Kashmiri militants at the heart of the conflict say that Indian officials have an incentive to exaggerate their own lethality, and nor can Pakistani officials be taken at a face value. Regardless, analysts say, Indian officials have more than demonstrated their long and lethal reach to Pakistan and the Indian public. Asad Durrani, a former director general of Pakistans ISI intelligence agency, said it may be in the interests of some officials in both India and Pakistan to carry on their shadow war, both to destabilize the other and to reap political dividends. Any state, or non-state actor, that can get away with an act would do so, Durrani said. Neither side is willing to pay the price of peace. Mohammad Zubair Khan in Lahore, Shaiq Hussain in Islamabad, Pakistan, Shams Irfan in Srinagar, India, and Anant Gupta in New Delhi contributed to this report. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, observes troops firing their rifles at an undisclosed military base in North Korea, March 6, 2024. (Korean Central News Agency) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea North Korean troops deployed to Russias western border with Ukraine are conducting human wave tactics on the battlefield, leading to more than 1,000 casualties within their ranks last week, a White House spokesman said recently. North Korean troops supporting Russias invasion of Ukraine are conducting ground assaults in the Kursk region against Ukrainian forces that have led to heavy casualties, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Friday during a news conference in Washington, D.C. It is clear that Russian and North Korean military leaders are treating these troops as expendable and ordering them on hopeless assaults against Ukrainian defenses, he said. These North Korean soldiers appear to be highly indoctrinated, pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are futile. The White House had received reports that North Korean troops were killing themselves, instead of surrendering, Kirby said, likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in the event that theyre captured. North Korean troops have suffered many losses and Moscow and Pyongyang have no interest in the survival of these Koreans at all, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a video address Friday. Everything is arranged in a way that makes it impossible for us to capture the Koreans as prisoners, Zelenskyy said. Those who were captured were seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated, he said. Militaries and intelligence agencies in Ukraine, the United States and South Korea have estimated around 10,000-12,000 North Korean troops have deployed to Russia since October. Since 2022, Pyongyang has shipped artillery shells and ballistic missiles to Russia in its fight against Ukraine, according to South Koreas military. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June pledged mutual military aid if either of their countries were at war. President Joe Biden on Monday announced the U.S. would send nearly $2.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This package includes medium-range surface-to-air missiles, artillery shells, small arms, grenades, communications equipment and clothing, according to a Defense Department news release that day. At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraines position in this war over the remainder of my time in office, Biden said in a White House statement Monday. The security package is in addition to the $3.5 billion sent Monday to Ukraine by the Treasury Department, State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development. The funds are meant to directly support Ukraines budget, including the salaries of government employees, teachers and healthcare workers. Ukraines success is in Americas core national interest, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in a department news release Monday. Stopping Russias illegal invasion will help uphold a global democratic, rules-based, order that advances American security and economic interests, and it will send an unmistakable message to autocrats and would-be aggressors around the world that they will face unshakeable resolve. Congress has approved over $180 billion in funds and military assistance to Ukraine since Russias invasion in 2022, according to a September report from the U.S. Ukraine Oversight Interagency Working Group, a group of 24 federal agencies tasked with overseeing assistance to Kyiv. A panda sits in its enclosure at the Smithsonian National Zoo during the "Panda Palooza: A Giant Farewell" in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 22, 2023. (Brendan Smialowski, AFP, Getty Images/TNS) China cracked down on rumors that a Washington, D.C., zoo abused its pandas, as it seeks to steady ties with the United States weeks before President-elect Donald Trump is set to return to the White House. Police in Sichuan accused two people of spreading false information that the bears, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, were mistreated at the National Zoo in Washington, according to an official statement Friday. The man and woman also incited boycotts of international efforts to conserve the animals, authorities alleged. The law enforcement action contrasted with Chinas jab at the U.S. last year over the health of a panda at the Memphis Zoo after images showed it looking emaciated. Both countries denied there was any foul play, although Chinese diplomat Hua Chunying fanned anger by comparing the pandas condition with a photo of the bear looking healthier back in Beijing. At the time, all pandas in the U.S. including Mei Xiang and Tian Tian were being sent back to China after ties sank to a new low over an alleged Chinese spy balloon. Their future presence in America was secured only after President Xi Jinping renewed panda diplomacy last November following his meeting with his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden. The crackdown on rumors about the United States treatment of the Chinese national symbol is now similarly seen as a gesture of goodwill as Beijing braces for a turbulent second Trump presidency and struggles with an economic slowdown at home. Police said the suspects profited from the rumors through livestreaming, earning as much as $23,290, according to the Friday statement. The crime began in June 2023 and authorities began to investigate in March this year after receiving complaints. They must have done a thorough investigation over these nine months, said one Chinese social media user, among several questioning the timing of the prosecution. China has long used its national animal to curry favor, reward friends and punish adversaries. The ruling Communist Party first gave the U.S. pandas after President Richard Nixon normalized relations in 1972, from when pandas have had a continuous presence in the National Zoo barring a yearlong gap after Hsing-Hsings death in late 1999. The police action coincided with Chinas broad range of efforts to mend ties with other countries including by opening more sectors to foreign investment, wooing tourists with visa-free arrangements and reversing a ban on seafood imports from Japan. In a condolence message Monday over the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, who officially recognized the Peoples Republic, President Xi said the country was ready to work with America to advance ties in a sound, stable and healthy direction. The Communist Party mouthpiece the Peoples Daily last week also called for public submissions showcasing U.S.-China friendship, a largely symbolic move showing Beijings intent to promote ties. The tide has changed. So should we still hate on the U.S.? one user asked on the Weibo social networking site. With assistance from Jing Li and Philip Glamann. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A Mi-8 Russian Helicopter is charging its batteries before a mission on Camp Echo, Iraq, Jan. 21, 2008. (Alan Moos/U.S. Army) Ukraines intelligence service said a naval drone had struck down a Russian military helicopter for the first time and forced another one to return to an airfield after being hit. An airborne Russian Mi-8 helicopter was hit on Tuesday by a Ukrainian Magura V5 drone near Cape Tarkhankut in occupied Crimea, the intelligence agency said in a statement on Telegram. The unmanned craft was equipped with R-73 missiles, it said. The attack on the helicopter couldnt be independently verified, and Russia hadnt commented. Russia launched several waves of missile and drone attacks against Ukraine, starting Monday night and continuing into the morning, according to the Ukrainian Air Forces Telegram. The barrage included six Iskander ballistic missiles, one Kinzhal ballistic missile, six Kh-69 cruise missiles, eight Kh-22 cruise missiles and 40 Shahed drones. Air defense systems were able to intercept six of the projectiles and 16 unmanned aerial vehicles, but lost track of 24 other drones, it said. Ukraine has used drones in the region to attack a variety of targets, including Russias Black Sea fleet. Kremlin forces have been bombarding Ukraines infrastructure for months while also making slow gains along the front in Ukraines east. The attacks come as both sides await the return to the White House of President-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to end the war and suggested Kyiv should be prepared to make a deal. Civilian infrastructure in Shostka in Ukraines northeastern Sumy region was targeted in a Tuesday morning strike, according to a statement on Telegram from the regional military administration. Meanwhile, Ukraine attacked Russia with 68 drones overnight, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on Telegram. Drones were shot down in both the Bryansk region and Crimea. In the Smolensk region, an oil depot was hit and caught fire, according to Governor Vasily Anokhin. Airports in Kazan and Vladikavkaz were temporarily closed in the morning. Both later resumed operations, according to the Interfax news service. An F/A-18E Super Hornet launches from the USS Harry S. Truman on Dec. 28, 2024 in the Red Sea. Navy ships and aircraft attacked Houthi weapons facilities in Yemen on Dec. 30 and 31, according to U.S. Central Command. (Natalia Thoen/U.S. Navy) American forces in the Middle East struck multiple Houthi targets in Yemens capital city of Sanaa and along its coast this week, U.S. Central Command said Tuesday. The strikes, conducted Monday and Tuesday by U.S. Navy ships and aircraft, targeted a command hub and weapons production facility as well as a bunker housing missiles and drones, CENTCOM said in a statement on X.com. Navy and Air Force aircraft also destroyed a coastal radar site, seven cruise missiles and one-way attack drones over the Red Sea, according to the statement. The strikes mark the third and fourth actions U.S. forces have taken against the Houthis in the last month. There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment during the strikes, which are part of the ongoing efforts to degrade the Iran-backed rebel group as it attacks Israel and continues to target commercial and military ships. Houthi leaders have made multiple recent claims, without evidence, of successful attacks against U.S. targets. On Tuesday, the group said it had targeted the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. Earlier this month, a U.S. Navy jet was shot down over the Red Sea in an apparent friendly fire accident by the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the Truman Carrier Strike Group. The two flight officers were able to eject safely and an investigation into the strike is ongoing. News / National by Staff reporter The government has announced an increase in the retirement age for civil servants and members of the uniformed forces by an additional five years, effective 1 January 2025.According to Statutory Instrument (SI) 197 of 2024, released on 30 December 2024, the retirement age for civil servants has been raised from 65 to 70. However, civil servants still have the option to retire early at the age of 60, provided they give a three-month notice.The SI stipulates: "Before the effective date, civil servants may have a pensionable age of 65 years with the option to retire at 70 on full pension. Retirement after the age of 65 and before 70 shall be considered early retirement. On or after the effective date, civil servants will have a pensionable age of 70 years. A member may, after reaching the age of 60, retire early by submitting three months' notice of retirement."In addition to the changes for civil servants, Statutory Instrument 198 of 2024, known as the Defence (Regular Force) (Non-Commissioned Members) (Amendment) Regulations, has increased the retirement age for regular soldiers from 50 to 55. Members of the armed forces can extend their service to 60, and in the case of war veterans, to 65 years, if recommended by the minister or commander.The SI specifies: "A permanent member shall retire at 55 years of age, regardless of their length of service. However, if deemed in the public interest by the minister and recommended by the commander, the member may continue to serve for an additional five years until they reach 60. For war veterans, the retirement age can be extended further to 65."Additionally, under Statutory Instrument 201 of 2024, the government has increased the pensionable service for police officers from 20 to 30 years, which will affect how pensions are calculated and paid out to retiring officers.The adjustments in retirement and pension policies are part of the government's broader strategy to address the welfare of civil servants and members of the uniformed forces, while also ensuring continued service from experienced personnel. These changes are expected to have significant impacts on the retirement planning and financial management within these sectors. Paranoid thug who kicked in door of flat block fails in 60k injury case and ordered to pay costs for missed hearing Dean Brophy, who said he tanned to hide a scar, is pictured at court A convicted drug dealer who said he had to use sunbeds to hide a 2cm scar he claimed he received slipping on stairs has had his 60,000 personal injury case dismissed and has been hit with a costs bill. Dean Brophy (32), with an address at Reuben Walk, Rialto, Dublin, said he had to resort to using the sunbeds as his local pub wouldnt let him in because of his small scar. Brophy had taken a civil case in Dublin Circuit Court against Dublin City Council (DCC) after he claimed he was injured when he slipped walking up communal stairs late at night in an apartment complex on Bride Street and hit his head on a bedside locker. Brophy initially told the court that DCC didnt provide a safe premises because the Council hadnt removed the locker from the stairwell but later admitted he had been arrested and convicted of criminal damage after kicking in the front door of the apartment block weeks before he fell. The court also heard he hadnt disclosed a previous accident that he had taken a claim for in affidavits but did so in evidence, and said I didnt think I was lying on the form as the claim had been settled before it got to court. Brophy had also claimed he suffered from paranoia, memory loss and anxiety as a result of the fall but admitted under cross examination that he had previously suffered from paranoia and anxiety and had a significant drug and alcohol problem until earlier this year. He told the court while his official address was his mothers house in Rialto, he was living at the time of the accident with his partner and children at the apartment on Bride Street where the accident took place. He said he was coming home just before midnight on September 28, 2019 and slipped three steps from the return and fell forward, hitting his head off a bedside locker which had been left out by a tenant in the block. I hit my face on the locker, the front of my forehead, I had a cut above my eye. There was a fair amount of blood. The court heard he didnt use the handrail and he was looking down and he may have been rushing. He later went to hospital and received stitches. Brophy added that he subsequently suffered headaches, memory loss, paranoia and anxiety as a result of his injuries. People were looking at me. I couldnt get into my local because they were refusing me. Ive been doing a lot of sunbeds just to get my face back to a normal colour, he said. When Brophy was giving evidence he told his barrister Tom Murphy BL that he had omitted a previous personal injury claim in an affidavit before the case where all previous claims must be declared. John P Kehoe BL, representing Dublin City Council and IPB Insurance, put it to Brophy that had lied in the affidavit. You failed to disclose a previous accident. You swore an affidavit in May 2022 saying that information was accurate, Mr Kehoe said. Brophy said: To be honest I cant really remember the time filling out forms because it was settled, I didnt have to write it down. I didnt think I was lying. Brophy also told Mr Kehoe that he was claiming DCC had failed to provide a safe premises. However, under cross-examination he admitted he was prosecuted for criminal damage after he kicked in the communal front door of the apartment block in an incident on March 14, 2019. The council later had to repair the door, the Yale lock and the frame of the door as a result of the incident. Mr Kehoe said as Brophys claim was alleging that DCC failed to provide a safe premises and he had carried out damage to the same premises he was effectively asking the court to protect Mr Brophy from the likes of Mr Brophy. The court heard that Brophy had previously told inspectors he couldnt remember if he used the handrail on the night but he told the court he didnt use it as there were a lot of addicts and [the handrails] are filthy. Brophy had claimed he suffered paranoia and memory loss as a result of the incident. After the bang, it went on for a while, he said. Asked by Mr Kehoe if there may have been any other cause of his memory loss, he said not that he could recall. However, Mr Kehoe said Brophys medical history showed that as far back as 2017 he attended a GP suffering from feelings of paranoia, anxiety, and was self-medicating with drugs. The court heard when he visited his doctor in January 2017 he said he was taking two Zimovane tablets a day which he bought off the streets and was feeling distressed and anxious. At another medical appointment in February the following year, he said he was taking two to three Zimovane and/or benzodiazepines a day and was suffering from paranoia as he felt his life was under threat. Asked why he hadnt revealed he was already suffering from paranoia before the accident he said: It was a very long time ago. When it was put to Brophy that he was being untruthful, he said: Well, my paranoia could have worsened. Brophy, who is currently unemployed, said the memory loss affected his ability to get work. He admitted under cross examination that he had had a quite heavy drug dependency problem and alcohol problem. Mr Kehoe asked: Would that affect your ability to work? Brophy replied No because when I was working I was clean. Brophy had turned up to a previous hearing when the civil case was due to be heard in June but was not in a position to proceed as he had drink taken. He said he is currently sober. Under cross examination he said he kicked in the door of the apartment block in the months before the accident as he got a call from his girlfriend that his child wasnt well and he hadnt had his keys on him. However, Detective Garda Mark Kelly, who prosecuted Brophy over the door incident, said he did not give that reason in court as an excuse when he was convicted. He said Brophy pleaded guilty and no rational was offered as to why he kicked in the door. There was no explanation whatsoever, Det Garda Kelly said. Mr Kehoe said: He believes the local authority has failed to keep the premises safe. The same premises he believes he has every right lawfully and unlawfully to enter. As well as his conviction for criminal damage, Brophy has numerous other convictions for a variety of offences. He was jailed for five years with two years suspended in 2011 after being caught with a significant amount of drugs in Dublin. In 2020 he was charged with assault causing harm and attempted robbery. He later pleaded guilty to the assault charge and the State dropped the attempted robbery charge. He was given a three year suspended sentence. Judge Fiona OSullivan dismissed his civil claim this week. She did not make an order of costs against Brophy for this weeks hearing but ordered him to pay the cost of the hearing that was due to take place on June 19 at which Brophy was not in a position to given evidence. The former paramilitary commander and loyalist poster boy continues to plead his innocence Busted UVF gunrunner Winston Winkie Irvine still insists he is innocent despite being caught with a car load of guns and ammo. The former paramilitary commander and loyalist poster boy continues to plead his innocence even though he faces jail time after pleading guilty to a series of arms charges. The Sunday World can reveal that he is telling anyone who will listen that he had intended to fight the case until a last-minute change of plea. And we can also reveal that as previously reported, UVF Chief of Staff John Bunter Graham has ordered an investigation into Irvines conduct, particularly into his time as Commander of UVF B Company on the Shankill. The inquiry also spells trouble for Bunters second in command Harmless Harry Stockman, who has come under scrutiny because of his close relationship with Irvine, a source has claimed. Long-standing UVF sources on the Shankill have told the Sunday World Bunter has drafted in a team of veteran and trusted members to carry out the investigation. It is understood neither Stockman nor Irvine have been formally informed of the internal probe, which could see Stockman ousted from the top table. For his part, Irvine has been claiming that new evidence emerged over the weekend before his case and that of co-accused Robin Workman was due to start. Robin Workman He has not revealed the nature of the evidence but has been blaming Workman and poor advice. He has also been doing the rounds of funders who have helped keep him in a raft of publicly funded jobs, but they are shutting the door on him. According to our sources nothing can now save his reputation. The older ones here on the Shankill have so many questions they need answered, theres a list of people Irvine briefed against and got rid of down the years, said our source. People like his predecessor as head of B Company, Winkie told a lot of lies about him. Our source said Bunter had brought in men from a number of areas, but news of the investigation was know only to a small circle. A Shankill Road veteran told us the inquiry had already started and that former senior members of B Company had been spoken to. Thats to get their accounts of operations that went wrong and resulted in men being arrested and charged. Anger at Irvine spreads beyond Belfast, with UVF members in the Larne area understood to be angry over Workmans treatment. He is from east Antrim where there is a belief he has been thrown under the bus. John 'Bunter' Graham After initially pleading not guilty to the June 2022 offence, the Sunday World can reveal that sources are claiming Irvine was part of a British security service operation, inadvertently intercepted by the PSNI. The plan was allegedly to place the guns in the hands of security and intelligence services for forensic examination. Security and UVF sources have suggested to the Sunday World that state agencies turned their back on Irvine. The Sunday World understands that fears Irvine knows too much fuelled his and Workmans admission of guilt. During a court appearance in December 2022, Irvines barrister Joe Brolly said there would be a significant disclosure that would explain his clients involvement. Barrister Brolly referenced then Assistant Chief Constable Bobby Singleton as a contact of his client. Singleton has recently been appointed Deputy Chief Constable, but his alleged connection with Irvine has resulted in the deposed UVF chief being given a new nickname Winkie Singleton. Irvine and Workman are due to be sentenced on January 23 when they will likely go to jail. Three possible verdicts are open to them - not guilty, guilty of murder or not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter A jury has begun deliberations in the trial of barrister Diarmuid Phelan, who is accused of murdering an unarmed intruder in a shooting on his Dublin farm. The jury retired this morning to consider a verdict after the presiding judge finished delivering her charge yesterday following a 10-week Central Criminal Court trial. Three possible verdicts are open to them - not guilty, guilty of murder or not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. Mr Phelan, a senior counsel and farmer, is charged with murdering Keith Conlon (35) in a confrontation on his land at Hazelgrove Farm, Tallaght. The father-of-four was among a group of trespassers hunting wild animals on the farm on February 22, 2022 when Mr Phelan killed a dog they had brought. In the ensuing confrontation, Mr Phelan shot Mr Conlon with a revolver in the back of the head. He died in hospital two days later. The accused maintains he felt under threat and unintentionally hit Mr Conlon while firing warning shots in the air in legitimate self defence. The prosecution alleges he intended to kill or seriously injure him, and unlawfully used force. Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford concluded her jury charge yesterday evening, outlining the evidence and directing them on how to apply the law to the case. She summarised the closing speeches that the jury had heard earlier from prosecutor Roisin Lacey SC and Sean Guerin SC for the defence. The judge also read from a document providing the jury with a "suggested template" for how they might approach deliberations in their path to a verdict. This morning, she said the jurors would each get a copy of this document. She said it was only a suggestion at how they could arrive at a verdict and you do whatever you think best with the guidance you have been given. The jury was also given a list of exhibits in the trial and the judge said they should let their minder know if they needed to see any exhibit or part of the trial transcript. She said the jury had to be unanimous in their verdict and all your thinking must go on when you are together. They were also given the issue paper on which they are to record their verdict. Judge Lankford said the jury had been exemplary throughout the trial. The nine men and three women of the jury retired after 10.30am to begin deliberations. The trial had been expected to last six weeks but stalled several times following overruns and juror availability issues. It was delayed for 18 days between December 12 and yesterday. The jury yesterday indicated some members will be unavailable on certain future dates, but Judge Lankford said they would continue and if difficulties arise we will deal with them later. Sheehan, who has posted videos of himself simulating sex with a washing machine online in his quest for likes and views, has been in custody since the summer A man who describes himself as the most hated man on TikTok has had his sentence for coercive control and assault delayed for the second time after a UK court had still not been provided with his Irish criminal record. Wannabe social media influencer Dean Sheehan (43), of no fixed abode but with a previous address on the South Circular Road in Limerick, appeared before Teeside Crown Court on December 20 where he was awaiting sentence for the offences against his now former girlfriend. Sheehan, who has posted videos of himself simulating sex with a washing machine online in his quest for likes and views, has been in custody since the summer after he admitted charges of controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship and assault causing actual bodily harm. He was due to be sentenced in October but the hearing was put back to the final court date before Christmas on December 20. However, when he appeared in court on that day, a judge said he had still not received details of Sheehans criminal record in Ireland. It was not outlined in court if the delay was down to Irish or UK authorities. The judge urged the Crown Prosecution Service to contact Irish authorities and resolve the issue before the next court appearance on January 17. Sheehan simulated sex with a washing machine in one video Sheehan, who was anxious to finalise matters and was hoping he may have even been released due to time served, told the judge that he could tell the court about his convictions in Ireland but the judge said he needed some sort of official documentation and could not just take the word of the defendant. As a result, Sheehan remained behind bars over the festive season and had his Christmas dinner in HMP Durham. The judge told Sheehan that he will finalise sentence on January 17 no matter what happens, but urged the CPS to resolve the situation. Sheehan previously told the court he had no outstanding cases pending here and his last conviction was a suspended sentence in Ireland last year. The Sunday World revealed at the time that Sheehan was given an 18-month suspended sentence for threats to kill or cause serious harm at Limerick Circuit Court last November. He had also been charged with criminal damage but those charges were dropped after he pleaded guilty to the threats. He has numerous other previous convictions in Ireland, and he posted a video on TikTok in November 2023 three weeks after receiving his suspended sentence boasting about being released from prison early for another offence. When you get eight weeks but released after three weeks, he wrote before adding tuff three weeks like. The charge against him in the UK case said that he caused the woman to fear violence would be used against her on at least two occasions, he assaulted her and made demands for money, while also verbally abusing her and making threats to assault members of her family. The controlling and coercive behaviour took place between December 1 last year, while the assault took place on July 12. Sheehan had initially pleaded not guilty to the offences as well as further charges of intentional strangulation and false imprisonment, and was due to stand trial in January. However, after pleading guilty the first two charges Sam Ponniah, prosecuting, told the court those pleas were acceptable to the Crown and the other charges would be dropped. Sheehan had built up an online following in recent years posting numerous videos on TikTok as well as other social media platforms. He described himself as a mental health advocate but would also post comments laughing about domestic violence and slapping women. He also posted videos verbally abusing women he knew personally. In one video he says: Apparently Im the most hated man on TikTok. Saunders wife has fortnight to file locksmith businesss overdue finance records THE WIFE of alleged robbery gang leader Stefan Saunders has been given just over two weeks to provide details of her locksmith businesss finances to the company records office. Tammy Gillard Saunders, who is married to Stefan Saunders, is the registered owner of Lock Enforcement Ltd, which was set up in 2022. She is also listed as company secretary of the business. Both Stefan and Tammy have been previously named as targets of the Criminal Assets Bureau. Lock Enforcements Ltd was incorporated in February 2022 but hasnt filed a financial return since submitting a first annual return in August of the same year. According to a court notice attached to the locksmith businesss company filings on December 18, Lock Enforcement Ltd was issued with a court order specifying that the companys finances must be brought up to date by January 15. Tammy Gillard Saunders is also the registered owner The order lists Tammy as the applicant in seeking additional time to submit the overdue documents to the companys office. The order states: the time within which the annual return of the company in relation may be delivered to the Registrar of Companies and is hereby extended up to and including 14/01/2025. Earlier this year, the Company Records Office engaged in a clear out of companies which had failed to file returns by striking them off the register. All registered companies are obliged to file annual returns with the CRO. Cartel criminal Graham The Wig Whelan and mob money launderer Thomas Rooney were among a number of organised crime figures to be caught up in a crackdown on rogue companies. Senior Kinahan gang member Whelan had been listed as a director of Eco Green Wheelie Clean Ireland, a company which described its principal activity as the collection of non-hazardous waste. The company was incorporated in July 2018 but hadnt filed accounts since January 2020. EBT Executive Travel Limited, a company owned by Thomas Rooney a man described in court as an industrial scale money launderer for an international crime gang was also placed on the strike-off list. Rooney used a car registered to the limousine company to ferry cash he was cleaning for UK based criminal Thomas Maher. Saunders home at Hazelbury Park in Dublin Rooney incorporated the company in January 2018 but hasnt filed accounts since September 2019. Another company listed to be struck off is Evergreen Wealth Management, a company belonging to former socialite Marcus Sweeney, who was described by a judge as being up to his oxters in organised crime. Riverview Aesthetics, a beauty company run by drug dealer John Coones wife, was also listed. The company had been described as a money laundering vehicle in a Criminal Assets Bureau case. Stefan Saunders and wife Tammy lost a court battle with CAB to have their home declared the proceeds of crime in 2022. Saunders, who trained as a plasterer, is known to be a self-taught locksmith who brought his own set of keys to robberies. A website for Lock Enforcements describes the firm as providing a high standard of service with old fashioned values and adds that it provides landlord services like property recovery and overdue rent collection. Stefan Saunders Stefan Saunders, until his arrest in 2016, was regarded as one of the most prolific bank robbers in the country and became the target of a huge garda operation against his gang. An affidavit from an investigating officer described the Saunders Organised Crime Gang as being involved in the Brinks Allied cash-in-transit robbery in 2005 in which 2.5m was stolen. Stefan Saunders was interviewed by gardai in connection with the heist but he was not prosecuted. Saunders was investigated and tried over a 2010 tiger kidnapping but a judge ordered his acquittal in that case. In 2016, he was caught red-handed robbing an ATM in Co Meath for which he got a 10-year sentence, which he has since served. The Sunday World previously revealed how just five months before that attempted robbery Saunders was stopped by UK police at Heathrow Airport, who suspected him of watching a cash-in-transit flight to Dublin. Interpol alerted gardai in a criminal intelligence report that Saunders and two other associates were suspected of carrying out surveillance of the cargo plane. One of the men, convicted robber Damien Noonan, took a flight to Dublin to be able to watch the plane from the departures area, according to the 2016 report. Saunders and another man were spotted by police parked in a blacked out vehicle before being searched and questioned about their identity and reasons for being in the area. Saunders had previously been investigated by CAB when a relative of his wife Tammy was the target of a probe by the agency. He is regarded as a dangerous criminal who once attended a military training camp and did a course in counter surveillance run by former Soviet soldiers in Eastern Europe. Despite being jailed for the attempted raid in Co Meath, he was released on a jail scheme involving community service. Although Tammy Saunders was never prosecuted and has no convictions, CABs case stated that gardai believed she was also part of the robbery gang. She was twice arrested over the gangs activities once in 2008 in connection with the robbery of a security van. Intelligence at the time indicated that she looked after communications for the OCG members while executing this crime, the affidavit stated. She was also arrested in 2010 over a tiger kidnapping in Dublin in which relatives of a Brinks Allied employee were held hostage as he was sent to collect cash. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside Sophie Toscan du Plantier (left) and her parents Marguierite and Georges Bouniol (right) The father of murdered French film producer Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Georges Bouniol, has died in Paris at the age of 98. He died in hospital with his family by his bedside, following decades of seeking justice for his 39-year-old daughter. The beaten body of Ms Toscan du Plantier was found on an isolated pathway near her holiday home at Toormore near Schull, Co Cork, two days before Christmas in 1996. Georges and Marguierite Bouniol Her elderly parents, Georges and Marguerite Bouniol, often made an annual visit from Paris where they lived to west Cork to mark the anniversary of her murder. They usually travelled to attend an anniversary mass for their daughter with their son Bertrand and Sophies son Pierre-Louis. Mr Bouniols death comes days after the 28th anniversary of his daughters murder. The main suspect in her murder, Ian Bailey, died in Cork in January earlier this year aged 66. The British journalist was questioned twice by gardai investigating her death, but was never charged for the murder. Mr Bailey has long denied any involvement in her death. Ian Bailey outside the High Court, Dublin (PA) Mr Bailey, who lived at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of murder in his absence by a French court in May 2019. The three-judge court imposed a 25-year sentence. In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite him for the murder. In September this year, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that a cold case review into her murder should be completed before any decision on an inquiry was made. The Tanaiste Micheal Martin had also criticised the legal systems handling of the case, saying Ireland failed to find and convict a murderer. She has been missing from Rockchapel, Co Cork since Friday, December 20. Gardai are seeking the publics help to find missing Cork woman Frances Malone. She has been missing from Rockchapel, Co Cork, since Friday, December 20. Frances (65) is described as being approximately 56 in height with a medium build, blonde hair, and green eyes. Anyone with any information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Mallow Garda on (022) 31450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. The remains of the Croatian born woman were found on farmland near Athlone on Monday after being reported missing last Saturday Gardai investigating the suspicious death of 58-year-old Mirjana Pap have seized two cars and are examining a house in Athlone. The remains of the Croatian born woman were found on farmland near Athlone on Monday after being reported missing last Saturday. The scene is being examined by gardai and her body has been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway for a post-mortem examination by the Deputy State Pathologist. The Garda Press Office stated this morning that they are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman in her 50s following the discovery of a body on lands at Curraghaleen, Co. Roscommon on Monday afternoon." A senior investigating officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at Athlone Garda Station. A family liaison officer (FLO) has also been assigned to provide support to the family. Examinations are currently underway at the scene and at a residential property in Athlone by the Garda Technical Bureau. Two cars have also been seized for examination. Gardai had previously issued an appeal on Sunday for help in finding Ms Pap amid serious concerns for her welfare. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 090 649 8550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Two of the worlds best all-rounders are set to face off in the Dream11 Super Smash on New Year's Day as the Wellington Blaze make the trip north to take on the Northern Brave women's team at Seddon Park starting at 12.40pm tomorrow. Australian international Perry has joined the Blaze for their opening two rounds of fixtures, searching for valuable game time before she returns home to play in The Womens Ashes series in January. Sri Lankan superstar Chamari Athapaththu has returned to the Brave, having featured prominently in the side's record-breaking run to the Elimination Final last season. In 9 matches, Athapaththu scored 221 runs at an average of 25 and a strike rate of 128, with a top score of 58. With the ball, she returned nine wickets with her off-spin, regularly trusted with key powerplay overs. White Ferns Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr and Sophie Devine will also make the trip to Hamilton in a strong Blaze outfit, whilst Amanda-Jade Wellington gives the Brave (W) more international experience to call on in a strong home spin attack. The Brave (M) have named an unchanged side following their opening round washout against the Auckland Aces. Fergus Lellman, Ben Pomare and Josh Brown are all set to make their T20 debuts, whilst Robbie ODonnell will make his Brave T20 debut after moving down from the Aces over the winter. The match for the Northern Brave men's team versus Wellington Firebirds will start at 4.25pm. Transpower chairman Dr Keith Sharman Turner never had a plan B after he found his chosen career in an industry he describes as critical to human life. Now the 74-year-old, who was raised in Rotorua and lives in Te Puna near Tauranga, has been made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his 55 years of service to the electricity industry, spanning almost every part of the sector. He is one of a host of Bay of Plenty residents named in the 2025 New Year Honours. Turner said he had dedicated his life to making a difference in the challenging and exciting sector. I think its important to find your passion, as when you love what you do, you do your best work. I have poured my whole heart and soul into this industry which is critical for modern society and never regretted my career choices and never had a plan B. Its an industry thats so fundamental to society and human life. I think its as important as having sufficient water to drink and air to breathe. He trained as an engineer but soon switched to power systems planning. He joined the Transpower NZ board in December 2021 and became the national grid operators chairman five months later. Before that, Turner was the founding chief executive of Meridian Energy, established in 1998, and held senior executive positions at the former Electricity Corporation of NZ, and its predecessor, the NZ Electricity Department. In May 2006, then-Minister of Finance Michael Cullen, centre, receives a dividend cheque of $800 million from Meridian Energy chairman Wayne Boyd, left and chief executive Keith Turner at Parliament. Photo / NZPA, Ross Setford Between 1983 and 1998, he held various positions with DesignPower the professional engineering consultancy to the electricity industry. His career has included establishing major wind farms, heavy involvement in electricity industry reforms and helping to found industry entities such as early regulator M-Co, the Market Surveillance Committee, and Contact Energy. He chaired Fisher & Paykel Appliances Holdings Ltd from 2010 to 2019 and is a former chairman of Emirates Team New Zealand Americas Cup Syndicate. Turner is a member of the New South Wales State EnergyCo Board, chair of Napier-based EV charger network builder Kwetta Technologies, and was chairman of DamWatch from 1999 to 2008 then 2016 to 2022. He is a distinguished fellow of Engineering NZ and holds the Sir William Pickering Medal for Engineering Leadership. Humble beginnings Turner said coming from very humble beginnings, he never imagined as a young boy the path his life would take. He felt humbled and privileged to be acknowledged with the honour. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with, and for, many talented people, who shared my passion for the industry and what it delivers for human life and society, and I believe those people also need to be recognised for their achievements in the industry. Dr Keith Turner, chairman of Transpower, in 2022. Photo / Dean Purcell But none of what I have done would have been possible without the support of my wonderful family. Born and raised in Rotorua, Turner is the youngest of the six children of the late Walter a senior forestry executive and Aileen Turner. Turner and his wife, Brenda, a retired GP, met in Christchurch and have been married for nearly 50 years, with four children three sons and a daughter and 13 grandchildren. F&P Appliances chairman Keith Turner at an annual meeting in 2011. Photo / Natalie Slade Turner said that as a boy he spent countless hours trout fishing at various Rotorua lakes and streams, including Lake Rerewhakaaitu, Lake Rotoiti, Lake Okataina and at Okere Falls. There were also plenty of pig and deer hunting expeditions, and he loved spending time mucking around with motors and cars. At age 10 or 11, I rescued a two-stroke motor off an old motor mower and converted it into a go-kart, and when I was 15 I purchased an unused 50cc Puch moped which I rode for one year before buying my first car, a little 1948 Morris 8 Series E, rebuilding the motor, and using it to pursue my passion for fishing. Turners interest in the electricity sector was first sparked at age 10 or 11. During the weekends, my father used to take me on regular road trips to visit various power stations, including Atamuri and Ohakuri. It was fascinating and having a curious mind I wanted to know how they worked and how they got the best performance out of them. After attending Rotorua Boys' High School, he took up an engineering cadetship offered by the NZ Electricity Department (NZED) in Wellington. Training as an engineer, he earned a Bachelor of Honours in Engineering (Electrical) at Canterbury University in 1973, followed by a Masters degree and a PhD in electrical engineering in 1980. Turner spent his spare time in a shed in the backyard of a rented property building an 11.6m steel yacht, which he sailed on trips along New Zealands east coast and across Cook Strait into the Marlborough Sounds. While living in Wellington he built a 250sq m replica colonial house on a 1.2ha block in Pukerua Bay on the Kapiti Coast. He and Brenda moved to Tauranga in 2012. Turner has four surviving siblings, including Patricia Roser in Tauranga the oldest surviving liver transplant recipient in the Southern Hemisphere. Sandra Conchie is a senior journalist at the Bay of Plenty Times and Rotorua Daily Post who has been a journalist for 24 years. She mainly covers police, court and other justice stories, as well as general news. She has been a Canon Media Awards regional/community reporter of the year. There will be new paw-lice on the beat in the Bay of Plenty as two new police dog and handler teams graduate from the Dog Training Centre at Trentham. After six years on the front lines with New Zealand Police, Constable Max Weallens began training with his new canine colleague, Phelix, a few months ago, he told the NZ Police Ten One magazine. Hes a big dog he stands as tall as me when hes on his hind legs, but hes a lovely dog and can be chill when he needs to be, Weallens said. Weallens, who would be based in Tauranga with Phelix, said he was grateful for the help and training from his colleagues in the coastal Bay of Plenty Dog Section. It will be good to get back out on the street and support the frontline with my new partner, he said. Senior Constable Walter Treviranus from Rotorua fulfilled his dream of becoming a dog handler after the woofing in ceremony with his first police dog, Ultrah. Ten One magazine reported he and Weallens joined Constable Scott Crewe of Hamilton as first-time handlers graduating alongside experienced officer Senior Constable Hugo du Plessis from Tamaki Makaurau with his second dog, Thored. The the ceremony was held earlier this month in front of whanau and friends, Police executive members and Minister of Police Mark Mitchell. Commissioner Richard Chambers congratulated the group upon completing the training. Its a proud day for all four teams, both experienced and new, Chambers said. Our new graduates are a significant boost to our frontline capacity, and we are proud to have them join us. Crowe said he looked forward to his first shift with H-Jordy a few days after graduation. Ive enjoyed training with him, he said. Id like to thank the team at Waikato Dog Section for all their help getting us to this point. Policing runs deep in Scotts family his mum is a former police officer, his dad is a retired senior sergeant, and his brother and sister serve constables. Hot Cross Bun fans can get their hands on an early fix of the ever-popular treat at Woolworths New Zealand stores with a range of buns available nationwide and ready to enjoy from today. The 2025 Woolworths range includes nine different flavours from the Traditional and Brioche Style, to the Lotus Biscoff and Cadbury Caramilk for the more adventurous. For those that love the flavour of a Hot Cross Bun, but take a hard pass on the fruit, the Fruitless Bun has also returned this year after a stint off the bakers rotation. Michael Whorskey, Woolworths Hot Cross Bun Expert and Bakery Merchandise Manager said the January start for hot cross bun season might be controversial to some but, time and time again, New Zealanders have shown that they simply love the tasty treat - no matter the time of year. In January alone, well sell over 1.4 million individual hot cross buns across the country and another 5.6 million individual hot cross buns in the lead up to Easter. Traditional is always our most popular flavour with around 65% of customers picking that as their favourite, but some of our innovative, new flavours like Lotus Biscoff have certainly found their way into the hearts (and stomachs!) of Kiwis. The best part is, when shoppers buy a pack of in-store baked buns, theyre not just getting a sweet treat but theyre also helping Kiwi kids. For every pack we sell, were donating 5 cents to support the fantastic work of KidsCan, Whorskey said. KidsCan provides food, shoes, jackets, and health items to children in 1,100 schools and early childhood centres nationwide so they can focus on learning. KidsCan founder, Julie Chapman said"We're really pleased that Woolworths are once again supporting KidsCan through the sale of their hot cross buns. Every pack sold means a donation that helps Kiwi kids thrive - meaning you can feel great about picking up a pack, even if it's only January!" In 2024, Woolworths donated over $85,000 to KidsCan from sales of in-store baked Hot Cross Buns. Customers can pick up Woolworths range of Hot Cross Buns in stores and online from today. The full 2025 lineup of Woolworths Hot Cross buns is: - Traditional Hot Cross Buns - Brioche Style Chocolate Hot Cross Buns - Chocolate Hot Cross Buns - Fruitless Hot Cross Buns - Lotus Biscoff Filled Hot Cross Buns - Cadbury Caramilk Hot Cross Buns - Free From Gluten Traditional - Free From Gluten Chocolate - Free From Gluten Apple and Cinnamon Update 12.13pm: State Highway 25 has reopened following a house fire on Tairua Road, Whangamata, this morning. Six people are in hospital following a house fire in Whangamata. A St Johns Ambulance spokesperson told RNZ that one ambulance was sent, and six people with minor injuries were taken to the hospital. The fire on Tairua Road resulted in six people transported to hospital. Photo / Coromandel FM State Highway 25 was closed between Brenton Place and Smartway Sewage due to a house fire on Tairua Road, Whangamata. A detour via Port Road, Heatherington Road and Harry Watt Drive was in place. Fire and Emergency New Zealand were alerted to the fire at 4.41am with 12 crews attending. The fire was well involved when we arrived and went to a third alarm level, a Fire and Emergency Spokesperson said. A fire ripped through a Whangamata house with Fire and Emergency New Zealand alerted at 4.45am this morning. Photo / Coromandel FM Brigades from Whangamata, Onemana-Opoutere, Waihi, Whiritoa, Pauanui, Tairua and Paeroa attended. Crews are dampening hotspots and leaving the scene now, the spokesperson said. MIKE MOTZ Sidney Sun-Telegraph SIDNEY--On December 23, 2024, 22-year-old Dakota Schrencengost, of Sterling, Co., appeared in Cheyenne County Curt via Zoom from the Cheyenne County Jail. Hon. Judge Randin R. Roland presided over a status hearing concerning Schrencengost's Status of Extradition as a Fugitive from Justice. In a prior hearing on November 13, 2024, Schrencengost extradition was waived and the defendant was advised of his extradition rights. Roland continued the case to February 24, 2025, where Schrencengost will appear in Cheyenne County Court. Schrencengost has been housed at the... "Where the word of the King is, there is power." Ecclesiasts 8:4 We the People attended the right rally. Jesus IS King! The most historical political event of the people by the people for the people since the Declaration of Independence has just happened! Let us wonder no longer! Let us fight to take this promised land, the United States of America back to her covenant with God, declared by our first President, George Washington, and his Congress while still in session, on the day of his inaugural address, "You will be our God and we will be Your people." Genesis 17 Every fighter pilot loves C... Merry Christmas friends and neighbors. I want to share some thoughts with you on current events and respond to a recent editorial that appeared on this editorial page. 77 million Americans voted for Donald Trump to be the President of the United States. That alone does not elect Presidents. The candidate that gets the most votes in November determines which political party sends its Presidential Electors to the state capitol in December to cast the states' Electoral Votes. In Nebraska and Maine, each congressional district has its own electoral vote, so the candidate must get the most votes in... Jane Goodall turned 90 years old last April. In the late 1950's, Jane-then an English girl in her twenties-dared to travel to Africa. Jane arrived at Gombe on July 14, 1960, with her mother, who acted as Jane's chaperone. On December 22, 1965, a Wednesday, "National Geographic" ran a televised documentary on Jane's work over the previous five years, entitled, "Miss Goodall and the Wild Chimpanzees." I watched that special on my grandparents' black and white television. Jane began, "Louis Leakey sent me to Gombe because he believed an understanding of chimpanzees would help him better guess how... Isabel Mendez Malaga Tuesday, 31 December 2024, 11:51 Compartir Rain will also be the main feature of the weather of last night of the year in Malaga and along the Costa del Sol. Abundant rainfall is expected so Spain's state meteorological agency (Aemet) has activated the yellow warning level for New Year's Eve. It will remain active, initially, from nine o'clock at night until six o'clock in the morning on 1 January 2025. The alert will affect the Sol area (which includes the entire western coastline of the province as well as Malaga city) and the Guadalhorce valley area. It is expected that while the warning remains in force, around 15mm will be collected. Rainfall will be heaviest, according to Aemet, on the western coastal areas, and could be accompanied by thunderstorms. This 31 December, the Aemet forecast for Malaga province predicts clear skies in the morning in Malaga city, although from 12 noon onwards the probability of rain is already at 80%, a percentage that will be maintained until the end of the day. The outlook for much of the province will be similar, for example on the west coast (in Marbella, where it has already rained overnight, there is an 80% chance of rain), on the east coast such as Nerja (90%) or in inland municipalities such as Ronda, where the probability is 95% for New Year's Eve (especially between 12noon and 6pm). In Estepona, Aemet has set the probably of rain at 100% to bid farewell to the year. Already overnight, some downpours have been recorded in the province, with the figures in the western area standing out. According to Jose Luis Escudero, head of the SUR blog Tormentas y Rayos, 15mm were recorded at the Marbella water treatment plant, 16.9 mm at the Guadalmina reservoir, 9.3mm at Ojen, 10mm at the Guadalmansa reservoir and 11.4mm at Marbella Puerto. On the other hand, for the beginning of the year 2025, Aemet does not expect rain to continue for the moment in Malaga, where the skies will be clear and the mercury in the capital will oscillate between the expected minimum of 9 C and the maximum of 18 degrees. Lucia Palacios Madrid Tuesday, 31 December 2024, 11:20 Compartir More than 1.1 million workers are currently on sick leave in Spain, that's 5.5% of the total working population. Worse still, throughout the year almost seven million workers, nearly a third, have taken sick leave, according to the latest data for November published by the national Ministry of Social Security in Madrid. Absenteeism, even if in this case it is justified as it has been authorised by a doctor, is one of the scourges that is plaguing and damaging economic activity in Spain. Not only is the country the king of unemployment in Europe, but it is also near the top spot for absenteeism with only France surpassing us, to the point that Spanish boasts almost double the average absence levels in the EU. This is why it has become one of the main concerns of the nation's companies in recent times. It is also one of the reasons cited by Spain's CEOE confederation of business and industry for rejecting the reduction of the working week to 37.5 hours as it significantly penalises productivity, another of Spain's Achilles heels and one that also places it well below the European average. Temporary incapacity costs have tripled in the last decade and are already almost 4 billion euros over budget this year Sick leave for mental health reasons has risen 78% since 2018 and is now the second biggest cause of sick leave lasting over a fortnight The amount of sick leave taken has shot up by 54% in just five years, mostly among young people, with an increasing proportion of that being long-term sick leave and an exponential increase in those caused by mental illness, according to an internal ministry report handed to SUR. In 2023 there were three million more sick leave absences due to temporary incapacity than five years ago, rising to 8.3 million, almost twice as many as in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Skyrocketing expenditure The Spanish state had to pay out nearly 14.21 billion euros for this, a figure that has already been exceeded this year by more than 15% despite the fact that December's expenditure has not yet been added, for which Social Security has had to divert more than 3.9 billion, having spent the entire 2024 budget in the first nine months. The cost of absences from work has shot up by 80% in five years, tripling in the last decade (in 2014, less than 4.9 billion euros were spent on sickness (IT) benefits) and has become the biggest budget item after pensions. One of the reasons that could be put forward for this disproportionate increase in absences from work due to illness is the ageing of the Spanish population: the older you get, the poorer your health. However, data provided by the Ministry of Social Security itself to interested parties demolish this argument. Paradoxically, it is young people who take the most sick leave, to the extent that it is double that of the over-55s. This unfortunate boom in sick leave - a phenomenon that tends to grow in good times and decrease exponentially in times of crisis - has occurred among workers of all age groups, but curiously has grown much faster among the under-25s, those who should be in better health. This age group's sick leave has shot up by 53% in the last five years. Absenteeism increases less among the older age group: 32% compared to the general average of 40%. More specifically, if for every 1,000 workers there are 34 on sick leave (taking data from 2023), this rises to 59 among young people, more than double the incidence of 26 sick leaves per 1,000 members logged for workers aged 55 to 65. Syracuse, N.Y. Our team of hungry wanderers hit up more than 70 restaurants and bars across Central New York this year. Some visits were first tastes of the newest spots in town; others were nostalgic check-ins with the places that have been feeding our souls (and stomachs) for years. As 2024 wraps up, Jared Paventi, Jacob Pucci and I find ourselves reminiscing over the highlights a smorgasbord of good eats, great drinks and even better vibes. Heres our rundown of the years standouts, presented in no particular order. If your go-to isnt on the list, dont stew about it its probably just because we didnt get to write about it. (Theres always next year!) The former Syracuse Wesleyan Church, home of Noble Cellar, Syracuse, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com)Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gma Address: 304 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse; (315) 303-2003. From Jared Paventi: Restaurants like Noble Cellar dont come along to Syracuse often. Elegant food, an exceptional wine list, and extraordinary service are what make this new entry to the Syracuse dining landscape so special. Thoughtful, deliberate construction of dishes like the turmeric shoyu marinated sea bass in ginger-scallion sauce with Chinese long beans or pan-seared duck breast over greens with a cherry reduction extend a diners boundaries with the development of dishes that bring out the best flavors from each element on the plate. From Charlie Miller: What once was a brightly lit colorful dining room paired with flamboyant Mexican food has been transformed into an upscale restaurant best described as approachable fine dining. Nobel Cellar opened in early February, the first restaurant for business partners Sarah Pelligrini and Rob Zaccaria, two Central New York real estate brokers. It has already amassed plenty of rave reviews and awards. This summer, it was among those honored in Wine Spectators Restaurant Awards, which annually ranks the worlds best restaurants for wine. Dinner at Brewer Union Cafe, Brewerton, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com)Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com Address: 5771 Miller Road, Brewerton; (315) 668-5207. From Jared Paventi: Theres no such thing as simple at Brewer Union Cafe. Chef-owner Christian Felix takes chances with his flavor combinations and they all fit together like a 10,000-piece jigsaw puzzle precisely and with a keen eye for where things go and what works. Pork Milanese starts with an Indiana-style pork tenderloin, pounded thin until its larger than a dinner plate, breaded and fried. A Mahi Mahi filet dredged in togarashi spices, grilled, and served over a sweet potato and wakame risotto. Its hard to call a consistently full restaurant a hidden gem, but it feels like there are so many out there that havent experienced this menu. From Charlie Miller: While Jared focuses on the fine dining at some of these places, Im content with belly-busting platters of breakfast food. Brewer Union Cafe obviously serves upscale dinner entrees, but remember what got them here. They landed on our culinary map with unusual morning combos. Theres a reason this place is the most-commented-about restaurant on our Where Syracuse Eats Facebook page. I mean, owner/chef Christian Felix combined the only two decent foods to come out of Indiana onto one plate. The Hoosier Daddy platter has real sausage gravy AND a hubcap-sized deep-fried pork tenderloin. Inside the bar area at The Tailor and The Cook, Utica, N.Y. (Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com)Jared Paventi | jaredpaventi@gmail.com Address: 311 Main St., Utica; (315) 624-3663. From Jared Paventi: One of the finest restaurants in Upstate New York just moved into its new space in Utica. The Tailor and The Cook outgrew its original home on Genesee Street and decamped to larger quarters in nearby Baggs Square. Space is about all that changed, as the restaurants commitment to local farms and purveyors, and seasonal flavors has never wavered. The local grazing board is a good place to start here, as the local cheeses, spreads and cured meats offer wide-ranging taste of place. The exterior of Hometown Memory Szechuan Cuisine, 124 Headson Drive, Syracuse.Jacob Pucci Address: 124 Headson Drive, Syracuse From Jacob Pucci: How did a restaurant in a gray cinder block building off Erie Boulevard, behind a Popeyes and next to a strip club, become one of my favorites of the year? The food, of course. Hometown Memory Szechuan Cuisine has a few tables along one wall, with three larger, round folding tables draped in a plastic table cover and surrounded by folding chairs available for larger parties. This is all to say that its not surprising that most of the orders we saw prepared during our visit were for pickup. But the food is absolutely incredible. The build-your-own mala dry pot gives diners the opportunity to pick their own ingredients, from pork belly and shrimp, to quail eggs, various Chinese sausages and offal. You probably wont nail the combination the first time out, but dont let that discourage you. The braised pork belly, joined by delightfully chewy bean curd knots in a sweet soy glaze, is the perfect pairing with white rice. I could wax poetic for ages about the fried beef with cumin, about the chefs talent in getting the best out of every ingredient with the high-octane wok burner able to caramelize sugars and provide a lick of smoke to stir-fries that no home stove could touch, but to keep it short get it, eat it, love it. Outside Rosalie's Cucina in Skaneateles.Jacob Pucci Address: 841 W. Genesee St. Road, Skaneateles From Jacob Pucci: Poke around the lower level of Rosalies and youll find autographed framed testimonials from some of the restaurants most prominent guests, from Jim Boeheim and Bob Costas, to Presidents Bill Clinton and Joe Biden, all exalting Rosalies as one of their favorite restaurants. Theyre joined by framed prints of decades-old reviews of the restaurant that appeared in these very pages. One, from 1999, talks of how meals start with a load of warm bread, served with a plate of olive oil thats accompanied by fresh garlic, herbs and cheese. The grilled polenta appetizer was terrific and the chocolate cake for dessert was worth the detour, according to the review. A 2006 review touts the same bread service, claims the beef braciole was the best critic Yolanda Wright had outside her grandmothers kitchen, said the Cappa Santa al Prosciutto e Basilico soared with silky, tender scallops, and praised their two desserts of the evening: the banana budino and Chiccolato Torta. Sound familiar? Dinner at Rosalies still starts with that same bread and accompaniments, the grilled polenta is indeed wonderful, as are the beef braciole and scallops. I still suggest ending your meal with the banana budino or the signature chocolate cake which, like everything else at Rosalies, is large enough to share. Some things change. Wright, in her 1999 review, noted that the prices are as hefty as the servings, as only three of the 12 entrees at the time were under $20, a figure that might seem quaint these days. But in so many other ways, its stayed exactly the same. Im beyond thankful it has. The Golden Reef roll from Hidden Fish in Skaneateles.Jacob Pucci Address: 7 Fennell St., Skaneateles. (315) 291-5398 From Jacob Pucci: The fourth and newest Skaneateles restaurant from Adam Weitsman, Hidden Fish deserves its accolades because it set out to prove that if world-class sushi bars in New York City can import impeccably fresh fish from Japan, why can we do that in Central New York? Its an ambitious restaurant in a modern, refined space whose location at the bottom level at the rear of an unassuming medical office building reinforces the feeling that its a secret club and youre lucky enough to be invited in. Pair that with top-notch service and knowledgeable waitstaff willing to guide diners through the menu and its no wonder why this secret is one worth sharing. Abbiocco, the Italian restaurant that has replaced a mano, is located in Icon Tower on South Warren Street in Syracuse. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com) Address: 344 S. Warren St., Syracuse From Jacob Pucci: Abbiocco had big shoes to fill. Its predecessor, A Mano, was my favorite Italian restaurant in Central New York and one of the best overall restaurants in the region, led by Executive Chef Alex Fiacchi and Pastry Chef/partner Lauren Markowitz, both CIA-trained chefs who trained under award-winning chefs in Philadelphia before opening A Mano in Downtown Syracuse in 2018. They closed A Mano in July 2023 and took their talents south, including hosting a pop-up pasta night at the acclaimed Cheeni restaurant in Durham, North Carolina over the summer. Luckily, only a few months after A Mano closed, Anthony Fiacchi, a restaurant industry veteran who had help run A Mano since the beginning, decided to rebrand and reopen the restaurant his son started and thus, Abbiocco was born. The menu is pared down and focused on pizzas and small plates. Alexs brother, Noah, oversaw making the wood-fired pizzas at A Mano and hes still doing it at Abbiocco. The experience shows the pizzas at Abbiocco might be best in town. A Mano pushed boundaries and broke down long-standing barriers as to what an Italian restaurant in Syracuse could mean. Abbiocco is more casual and the menu a bit more in line with traditional Italian restaurants in the area, but the execution is top-notch and remains one of the best restaurants around. From Charlie Miller: Yes, the pasta and other Italian specialties are among the best in CNY. In fact, Ive ended up here on my to the downtown Festa Italiano for the past two years. But do not overlook Alexs pizzas or the drinks from longtime bartender MacKenzie Stroman. I mean, he created his own negroni menu, a spritz menu and makes the house limoncello. Lunch at Ocean Sushi on Erie Boulevard: (left to right) soft tofu seafood stew, sauce beef, beef bibimbap, chicken wings, a sampler of sushi and shredded pork with garlic sauce. Ocean opened last week. (Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com)(Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com) Address: 2960 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse. (315) 800-0010 From Charlie Miller: Ocean Sushi took over a building that sat vacant for nearly seven years. This is a larger version of Oceans original spot on Route 57 in Liverpool. The goal here was to blend different Asian cuisines with an energetic atmosphere perfect for a late-night out. The massive restaurant has a Chinese chef for its Chinese menu, a Japanese chef for its Japanese menu and a Korean chef for its Korean menu. All are authentic, not Americanized dishes. I tried the fresh sushi, beef bibimbap and Korean chicken wings. Oh, and Ocean also has a basement bar with soundproof private karaoke rooms. **** Charlie Miller finds the best in food, drinks and fun across Central New York. Contact him at (315) 382-1984, or by email at cmiller@syracuse.com. (AND he pays for what he and his guests eat and drink, just so you know.) You can also find him under @HoosierCuse on Twitter and on Instagram. Sign up for his weekly Where Syracuse Eats newsletter here. Marcy, N.Y. Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday she had named a new leader at the Utica-area state prison where earlier this month several corrections officers brutally assaulted an inmate who later died. Hochul announced the change in leadership along with a series of reforms and added oversight across New Yorks prisons. The new superintendent of the Marcy Correctional Facility is Bennie Thorpe. He has worked in the corrections industry for more than two decades, and mostly recently was superintendent of the maximum-security Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Ulster County. The Marcy prison had been led on an interim basis by First Deputy Superintendent Danielle Medbury. She remains a state employee and future personnel decisions will be made by Thorpe and Daniel Martuscello III, the commissioner of the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, a department spokesperson said. Hochul made the announcement after visiting the Marcy prison, located in Oneida County about seven miles west of Utica. She said in a news release that she had met with the prisons interim leadership, as well as several people incarcerated there. The governor spent time in the infirmary exam room where on Dec. 9 prison guards repeatedly punched and kicked inmate Robert L. Brooks in the groin, abdomen, face and back. He was left bloodied and died hours later at a Utica hospital. Multiple federal and state agencies are investigating the death. Thirteen guards, and a nurse who can be seen laughing during the beating, were suspended without pay. Hochul has ordered all of them fired. One has already resigned. The savage beating was recorded on video by body cameras worn by four of the guards. None of the officers had turned on the cameras, but 30 minutes of video was recorded without audio thanks to a standby feature they may not have known about. Hochul said Monday that she ordered a $400 million program to install more security cameras, and provide body cameras to guards, be expedited. She is also pursuing a variety of other changes to the states system of 42 prisons. An outside firm will be brought in to review the systems culture, patterns and practices. More staff will be added to the prison systems Office of Special Investigations, which investigates complaints. The state will also enter into partnerships with Amend, a program run out of the University of California at San Francisco, and Chicago Beyond to assess conditions inside prisons. The system failed Mr. Brooks and I will not be satisfied until there has been significant culture change, Hochul said. The Marcy prison is a medium-security facility that had 846 inmates as of Dec. 1, records show. At least one lawmaker has called for its closure. An independent monitoring group, the Correctional Association of New York, has identified issues in the past at the prison. The group interviewed more than 100 inmates in fall 2022 and said inmates reported rampant abuse by employees. A pervasive culture of fear and retaliation was observed, the group wrote in its report. Hochul said the state would provide an additional $2 million to the association, which is designated by state law to provide independent monitoring and oversight to the prison system. Jennifer Scaife, the associations executive director, said Brooks' death is a watershed moment and a moment for state leaders to push for reforms. The governors announcement today offers a glimmer of hope that we can begin to address the deeply entrenched problems that plague New Yorks prisons, she said. Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7. If youre planning to travel in 2025 or later, an important deadline is approaching fast. REAL ID, also sometimes written as Real ID, will be required beginning May 7, 2025, to fly in the United States. New York state also offers an an option known as an Enhanced ID, or Enhanced drivers license, which is accepted for Real ID purposes as well as crossing borders to and from Canada and Mexico. Officials at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are encouraging people to get one of those updated IDs before the May 7 federal deadline even if their current license is not expiring soon and due for renewal. Time is running out to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID and you do not want to get stuck at airport security if you are not prepared, NYS DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said. Take the time now to get this taken care of so you are not scrambling at the last minute. But both IDs look similar to a standard drivers license, leading some to ask: Whats the difference? Heres what you need to know about the three identification options in New York: What is a REAL ID? REAL ID was created by the federal REAL ID Act in 2005 to increase federal security measures after the 9/11 terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. REAL ID will be required beginning May 7, 2025, for any adults 18 or older flying within the United States or to enter federal buildings and military bases. (The deadline was previously 2020, then pushed back multiple times due to the Covid pandemic.) REAL IDs also serve as standard drivers licenses and identification cards, and look similar, but the REAL ID includes a circle with a star in the top right corner. There is no additional cost for a REAL ID, but you must go to a DMV office to get one in person. A new photograph must be taken, and documents proving your identity (scroll down for more details) are required. You cannot get a REAL ID online or by phone or mail. However, you can make a reservation at your local DMV online to get an appointment to update your existing drivers license. What is an Enhanced ID? The Enhanced Driver License has been available to New York state residents since 2008 and also looks similar to a standard drivers license. An EDL, however, includes a banner that says Enhanced and includes a picture of an American flag in the top right corner. (Older Enhanced IDs have the flag in the bottom right corner.) An Enhanced ID is acceptable for REAL ID purposes, allowing you to travel on any domestic flight and to enter federal buildings and military bases. An EDL is also acceptable identification at U.S. land and sea borders for traveling to and from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean; a passport is still required for all international flights. Like the REAL ID, you must go to a DMV office in person to get an enhanced drivers license with documents proving your identity and residency. An EDL costs $30 extra on top of normal transaction fees. An example of a New York State Enhanced Driver's License (also known as Enhanced ID) is pictured in this DMV video still.DMV Several other states, including Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont and Washington, offer enhanced drivers licenses that are similarly REAL ID compliant. Do I have to get a REAL ID or Enhanced Drivers License? No. Standard drivers licenses and non-driver ID cards are still valid for driving and identification in the U.S. and New York state. All new standard IDs issued after Oct. 30, 2017, include the phrase NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES to indicate that they cannot be used for any U.S. flights or to enter federal buildings. A second form of valid identification, such as a Passport or REAL ID or EDL, will be required for domestic flights. In other words, if you dont plan on flying anywhere and dont plan to drive to Canada anytime soon, then you dont need to rush out and get a REAL ID or EDL. Also, you dont need a REAL ID or EDL to travel if you already have a valid U.S. passport, Global Entry card, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, federally recognized, tribal-issued photo IDs, transportation worker identification credentials or U.S. Merchant Mariner credentials. A REAL ID is also not required for voting or registering to vote; applying for federal benefits; accessing health services (including hospitals), law enforcement or court proceedings; and participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations. However, the New York State DMV strongly encourages residents to apply for a REAL ID or Enhanced Drivers License now to ensure theyll be able to travel in the future. Should I get a REAL ID or Enhanced Drivers License? Which is better, REAL ID or Enhanced Drivers License? Thats up to you. They both serve as acceptable identification for a drivers license, domestic flights and to enter federal buildings. A REAL ID costs the same as standard identification, while an Enhanced Drivers License costs $30 more. The biggest difference is an Enhanced ID allows you to travel to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries without a passport but not by plane. A passport is still required for international flights. What do I need to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID? The New York State DMV says you need the following documents: Proof of identity, such as valid license, birth certificate or passport, with your full first, middle (if applicable) and last name. This name will be displayed on your card as required by federal law. Proof of Social Security Number or Social Security Number ineligibility. If you have a valid NY license, permit or ID card, you must bring your original Social Security card or W-2 with full SSN. If you do not have a New York State driver license or identification card, you must bring your Social Security Card or a letter from the Social Security Administration proving your ineligibility to have a social security number. Proof of your date of birth, such as a birth certificate. Proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency or temporary lawful status in the United States, such as a valid passport. Two different proofs of New York State residence, such as utility bill, bank statement or mortgage statement (a P.O. Box not acceptable). If the name on your license, permit, or non-driver ID application does not match the name on your proof of identity, lawful status and Social Security, you must bring in court- or government-issued proof documenting the event causing your name change(s), such as a marriage license, divorce decree, adoption, or court-order document. For more information on obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced ID, visit dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/federal-real-id or dhs.gov/real-id. Town of Vernon, N.Y. An elderly woman is dead after a Monday morning house fire on State Route 5 in the Town of Vernon, according to fire officials and the Oneida County Sheriffs Office. At around 3:10 a.m. on Monday, a deputy sheriff on patrol came across a house fire at 6290 State Route 5, Vernon Fire Chief Scott Nell said. The house already had widespread flames and smoke when the deputy arrived and no people were found outside of the house, a news release from Oneida Sheriff Robert M. Maciol said. Multiple fire departments responded to the scene. The deputy tried to call out any people from the house but was unsuccessful. The fire took about an hour and 45 minutes to put out. An investigation by the criminal investigation unit began around 9 a.m., Nell said. An elderly woman was found dead in an upstairs bedroom during the investigation which was conducted with help from the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and local fire departments, according to Nell. The victims age and name have not been released. Law enforcement will provide updates after they identify the person and speak to the family. The fire is believed to have started in the garage before it quickly traveled through the house, Nell said. The cause of the fire is still being investigated but it does not appear to be suspicious, Maciol said. New York will ban the construction of new schools within 500 feet of a highway after Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a law inspired by Syracuse residents who live near Interstate 81. The governors approval caps a five-year fight by State Sen. Rachel May and local advocates who raised concerns about the states plans to redirect traffic after tearing down Interstate 81 in Syracuse. The states original plan would have built a street-level traffic roundabout about 120 feet from Dr. King Elementary School, south of downtown Syracuse. State officials agreed to move the roundabout after residents, state lawmakers and city leaders raised concerns about the impact on air quality near the school. May, D-Syracuse, introduced the Schools Impacted by Gross Highways Act (SIGH Act) in 2020, and gained approval from both the state Assembly and Senate in 2022. But Hochul vetoed the bill in December 2022, citing concerns that the law would be too restrictive in New York City, where space to build new schools is at a premium. May revised the bill this year, allowing the state Department of Education to grant waivers in New York City. Those schools receiving waivers would have to install additional technology in ventilation systems to improve air quality. New York is now at least the 24th state to ban school construction near major roads in light of growing evidence about the health risks to children associated with air pollution from cars and trucks. A study published in the medical journal The Lancet found motor vehicle exhaust is the cause of millions of new cases of childhood asthma worldwide each year. Advocates for the New York law had called it an environmental justice issue. A study commissioned by the New York Civil Liberties Union in 2019 found pollution from highway traffic disproportionately affects minority students. About 53% of Black and Hispanic children live within 500 feet of a major roadway compared to 4% of white students, the study found. Now that Hochul has signed the bill into law, the SIGH Act will become effective on July 1, 2025. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 Auto_guy_101 BHPian Join Date: Oct 2022 Location: Ernakulam Posts: 182 Thanked: 265 Times Infractions: 0/1 (5) Re: EVs to outsell ICE cars in China for the 1st time in 2025: 10 years ahead of schedule This is very interesting. About a decade ago, every conversation on economic development of China was centred around poor living standards (some of which maybe political) with many citing high pollution. Even today, a lot of arguments against EVs are centred on just 2 things: environmental impacts of lithium mining and the fossil fuel based electricity being used to run these EVs. But China has won that battle as well this story says. As far as Chinese competition pushing out global brands from China goes - it's going to be similar to how a lot of cars are made for India. China will build it's Maruti and it's Tata and Hyundai, and a Chinese will find these options more suited to their needs than say a German car. I'm not saying they would go to extreme cost cutting to meet market needs, I'm merely saying they will develop their own standards and segment of cars. After all there is a lot of economy of scale in catering to about 1 billion people. The real questions for the rest of the world or atleast US, Europe and India are: are we doing something terrible with our policy making? How did we let China lead the EV race - both in adoption and R&D? Honestly, for a lot of folks who dreamt of owning a Tesla model S, but aren't making a $100k per annum equivalent, a BYD seal is not very far from it (atleast not from a cheap to run super fast and powerful four door all rounder car dream) It would be interesting to see what happens when EVs in any country go from 1 in 10 to 9/10 new cars. Every year, technology is evolving and there are many companies and scientists that help deliver the latest innovations in the field, and all of them are focused on helping humanity take another step above what it currently is. As 2024 draws close to its end, it is important to look back on the emerging technologies and studies that have already made significant developments or are set to transform our current reality. From artificial intelligence down to quantum computing technology, here are the best and most highly regarded tech that made waves in 2024. Top 10 New Technology Trends of 2024 Artificial Intelligence Generative AI may have made waves in the tech industry in 2023 as its breakthrough year as most companies introduced their take on the sophisticated technology, but 2024 stepped that up thanks to the leading companies in the space. OpenAI is among the leaders of AI developments in the world, and the company recently introduced its "reasoning" model that goes deeper into what it can share with users in a more personable note. Google also introduced its take on a "reasoning" model with its Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking. However, there are many ways that AI improved this year and it offered the likes of automation, robotics training, cybersecurity, and more. Privacy and Cybersecurity This year saw a massive focus on privacy and cybersecurity as more attacks took place, from threat actors, but 2024 also saw significant advancements in fighting against these online attacks. One of the biggest advancements in cybersecurity is artificial intelligence, and it made it possible to speed up more of a system's detection and decision-making against online attacks. Immersive Tech: AR and VR The immersive world of augmented reality and virtual reality was also seeing significant developments this year from the likes of Meta, Apple, and more. Meta may have focused on the Quest 3S this year, but the company offered a new ecosystem known as 'Horizon OS.' 2024 may not have had much AR or VR hardware this year, but the adoption rate for smart glasses that offer an introduction towards augmented reality is making waves in the industry. Mixed Reality Technology Mixed reality (XR) technology may have debuted with Meta in 2023, but Apple's Vision Pro, a.k.a. its spatial computer, only released earlier this year in February to deliver one of the most advanced wearables in the world. Apple successfully fused AR and VR in one, and its drawback is that it is an expensive headset and that it is not yet quite the everyday accessory for all purposes. That being said, XR technology is expected to expand in the future, with the likes of Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm banding together for a new XR headset soon. Autonomous Vehicles Autonomous driving vehicles may have had a setback this year, especially for robotaxis, but the industry bounced back and had Waymo return to service. Tesla also joined in the development of AVs in the market, but it is with the Robotaxi and Robovan vehicles they introduced earlier this year which is set to make its way to actual testing in San Francisco. In other developments, General Motors officially shut down Cruise's robotaxi operations and absorbed it into its self-driving developments. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency This 2024 was the best year the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry had so far, first off, the market saw it bounce back from its woes in 2023, and it already held its ground despite its unpredictable nature. But its massive achievements happened towards the end of this year when Donald J. Trump won the elections, leading to Bitcoin's rise to unprecedented heights and breaking the $100,000 threshold. Robotics Robots have also seen massive developments this year, with AI-powered ones capable of creating artwork, with Ai-Da recently selling her creation for $1 million in auction, a first for machines. On the other hand, Tesla has also delivered massive developments for Optimus, envisioning a future where it would be part of the workforce in the future. AI also helped advance robotics in today's age, with massive excitement for what these machines can deliver by 2025. Space Exploration The space industry is rapidly expanding thanks to Elon Musk's SpaceX, with their Starship program already reaching great heights by nailing two of its flight tests, including one landing where Mechazilla caught Super Heavy mid-air. Many space companies are also looking to advance their technology, with Blue Origin's New Glenn reusable rocket soon to commence its test flight program, alongside massive developments from NASA, JAXA, Boeing, and more. Neurotechnology Earlier this year, Neuralink went forward with its clinical test with a paraplegic man, implanting him with the technology that would help him control electronic devices without the need to do it physically. The company also went forth with its second implant operation, and both saw successes without complications. Quantum Computing Artificial intelligence may be the most advanced tech now, but there are still developments toward unlocking quantum computing for applications in various fields. Various nations and companies have made significant investments in quantum computers, with breakthroughs in space marking new possibilities in the future. Google also presented a surprise drop of their quantum chip called 'Willow' with a buzzer-beater unveiling this year, set to transform the industry but is still far from real-world use. BBC celebrates 100 years of 'poetic' shipping forecast London, Dec 31 (AFP) Dec 31, 2024 The BBC on Wednesday celebrates 100 years of a weather forecast for sailors in British waters that has inspired musicians and poets and become an immovable fixture on UK radio. The Shipping Forecast, providing predictions by the Met Office on expected wind speeds, sea state, weather and visibility, began as a vital service to sailors and sea captains who may be in peril at sea. Modern seafarers can now rely on sophisticated forecasting technology but the calm, rhythmic delivery of the forecast by one of BBC Radio 4's silky-voiced continuity announcers has turned the forecast into something of a beloved British institution. Radio 4 controller Mohit Bakaya described the Shipping Forecast as a "cherished ritual" and "one of our national treasures". He said the centenary would be marked with a day-long series of programmes on Wednesday. Historian Jerry Brotton will explore how Britain has been shaped by its maritime past while famous names including Ellen MacArthur, the record-breaking solo round-the-world yachtswoman, will re-read bulletins from dates linked to their achievements. The service was set up in 1867 in response to a storm off north Wales eight years earlier that led to the death of 800 people and the loss of 133 ships, according to the Met Office. It was initially transmitted by telegraph before being first broadcast on radio on January 1, 1924 and taken over by the BBC in October 1925. Sea areas around the British Isles with mysterious names such as "Viking", "Dogger", "Sole", "Lundy" and "Fastnet" are covered in the forecast which is peppered with phrases such as "rain at times, moderate or good", "becoming cyclonic" and "falling slowly". The poetic sounding names of coastal weather stations such as "Tiree", "Ronaldsway and "Sandettie Light Vessel Automatic" also feature, adding to its appeal. - 'Sailing by' - Poets who have drawn creative inspiration from it include Carol Ann Duffy and Seamus Heaney who called it "verbal music". Bands like Radiohead, Blur and The Prodigy have also been stirred by the shipping forecast in their songs and a 2016 book of the same name celebrated the programme for "inspiring imaginations" worldwide. The first of the two daily forecasts -- three at weekends -- hits the airwaves at 5:21 am (0521 GMT). The last at 12:48 am (0048 GMT) is credited as an aid to lull insomniacs to sleep or just provide a reassuring end to the day for others. The late night bulletin is always preceded by the equally soothing piece of music "Sailing By". The music by Ronald Binge was originally chosen to be a signal to sailors that they had tuned into the correct station for the forecast. Continuity announcer Viji Alles, who hails from Sri Lanka, has said he was "immediately and utterly captivated" after first hearing the forecast in 2005. "I thought this is the most beautiful thing I have ever heard on radio," he said in a radio programme last year. "Its utility, I know, has declined over the years, but its value as a late night piece of poetry is just unparalleled," he added. Carving out a symbol of virtue 14:50, December 31, 2024 By Fang Aiqing ( China Daily Editor's note: Traditional arts and crafts are supreme examples of Chinese cultural heritage. China Daily publishes this series to show how master artisans are using dedication and innovation to inject new life into heritage. In this installment, we find out how the craftsmanship of jade carving still thrives in modern times. A jadeite miniature of Taishan Mountain, majestic yet intricately detailed, faithfully conveys the grandeur of the spot that has captivated ancient Chinese emperors and literati of the past and today. The mountain located in East China's Shandong province was not only a symbol of the pinnacle of feudal power in ancient times, but also an inexhaustible source of inspiration for those holding the pen. Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Du Fu once wrote, "Nature's wonders in divine chime. Day and night, they slice time." Such ingenious workmanship of nature has found its inheritance in this massive man-made jadeite piece on permanent display at the Chinese Traditional Culture Museum in Beijing. The essence of the jadeite's texture and the exquisite craftsmanship of jade carving run parallel in this masterpiece. From the east the sun rises, splitting the cloud-enveloped mountain into the sunlit side and the shaded side. Verdant woods shelter the flowing water, bridges and winding trails, where 64 figures, nine deer, nine cranes, and three goats find joy and peace. Major scenic spots of Taishan Mountain are vividly adapted to this miniature. Jade artisans have made full use of the raw stone's original shape, veining, and color. The light green part was carved into the sunlit side, with economical strokes to resemble the sheer cliffs while presenting the jadeite's natural beauty. The shaded side, however, displays a darker bluish-gray color. This is where Du's poem is inscribed, above which two gliding cranes enjoy the sun. Both the glowing sun and the cranes are skillfully made from impurities in the jade stone. The technique qiaose dates back to the Shang Dynasty (c.16th century-11th century BC) and is one of the most commonly applied methods in jade carving to reflect the artisans' ingenuity. A miniature Taishan Mountain is among the four jadeite "national treasures" housed at the Chinese Traditional Culture Museum in Beijing. (Wang Jing/China Daily) This miniature Taishan Mountain is among the four jadeite ornaments housed at the museum that are dubbed "national treasures". Produced in the 1980s, they took more than 40 Beijing-based jade artisans eight years to complete, according to museum guide Yang Yuwei. From these pieces, the delicacy, complexity, and diversity of jade caving a time-honored craftsmanship are fully revealed. Chinese people have a long-lasting attachment to jade, which probably accounts for their continuous drive to improve the craftsmanship of jade carving. From the around 9,000-year-old Xiaonanshan site of Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, archaeologists have excavated more than 200 pieces of jade ware, the earliest known in China. Exquisite jade ornaments and vessels of various sizes, shapes, and textures have also been found in subsequent relic sites across the country or passed down through history, exhibiting aesthetics and ritual significance and symbolizing wealth and social status. Above all, jade has always been associated with human virtue gentleness, inclusiveness, integrity, resilience, and purity, to name a few and the efforts taken to maximize the charm of the stone are frequently compared to the polishing of people's fine character. A household rhyme goes, "Jade, if not refined, will not become a useful ware. A person, if not learn, will not understand the principles of life." The main procedures of jade carving, handed down throughout thousands of years, include qie (cutting), cuo (grinding), zhuo (carving) and mo (polishing). These four Chinese characters form a commonly used phrase meaning exchanging ideas while mutually learning, and pondering on a specific problem over and over again an apt metaphor of the long journey to become a jade-carving master. One of the nine dragons writhing in the sea of clouds that adorn a jadeite relief screen at the museum. (Wang Jing/China Daily) Pursuit of perfection Upon getting a raw stone, craftsmen would first examine and cut out the flawed or cracked parts before designing according to the original shape of the remaining part. For a highly skilled, demanding artisan, this crucial initial step can be very consuming. Yu Ting, a 51-year-old jade carver from Suzhou in East China's Jiangsu province, is renowned for his expertise in crafting jade utensils as thin as eggshells. He recalls a time when he acquired a 260-kilogram raw stone, of which only 49 kg was of the purest quality. With this portion, he skillfully fashioned a 10-piece dinnerware set weighing a mere 368 grams, in addition to crafting another pair of bowls and a teapot. Since high-quality jade is truly rare, the improvement of skill always comes with the pursuit of realizing the material's potential to the extreme while compensating for the jade's natural imperfections or even taking advantage of them qiaose is simply one of these techniques. Another piece of the "national treasures" is an extravagantly decorated vessel for perfuming. The jade artisans managed to build this 71-centimeter-tall vessel in the shape of a giant two-eared cup out of a raw stone only 65 cm in height, using a technique called taoliao. To manage this, they scooped within the main body to carve out the lid. Within the lid, they applied the same method to further carve out the base. These independent parts were screwed together using carved spiral ridges. On the perfuming vessel are relief patterns of auspicious beasts from ancient Chinese mythology, as well as nine three-dimensional dragons tightly gripping the ears and the lid, with 10 loops dangling from carved decorations. Chain carving, a craft with a history of more than 3,000 years, is without doubt the highlight of the third piece a jadeite flower basket. Its hoop handle on the top and two movable chains, each with 32 interlocked loops, almost double the height of the original stone. According to Yang, the museum guide, its raw stone has many cracks and flaws. When carving the chains, the artisans searched for a relatively fine part of the jadeite, which they twisted in and out multiple times to expand its form. A jadeite vessel at the Chinese Traditional Culture Museum. (Wang Jing/China Daily) Jade-carving master Dong Wenzhong, who played a major role in producing these four pieces, told China Daily shortly after their completion in December 1989 that chain carving was the most challenging part of this basket. They had to be extremely careful to avoid flaws in the jadeite; and once the chain broke, they could never repair it using adhesives to fix broken jade is considered dishonest by jade carvers, he said. The leftover materials after carving out the hollow basket were turned into a dozen flowers peony, chrysanthemum, Chinese rose, plum blossom, and magnolia, among others and put back into the basket, interwoven and well-balanced. Nine dark green dragons writhing in the sea of apple-green and opal white clouds, powerful and unrestrained, are depicted on a relief screen that is only 1.8 cm thick, their claws, horns, and beards vividly detailed. This fourth piece is made of the best-quality jadeite among these "national treasures", whose materials stem from one raw stone, Yang says. Before carving, the artisans cut this lustrous material piece into four slabs and assembled them into this unprecedented large jadeite screen that is 146 cm wide and 74 cm tall. The long, yellowish-brown impurities of the jadeite are cleverly hidden, integrated into the image of the jet of water a dragon spits out and lightning released by another hitting the clouds with its claws. The glowing sun and a pair of cranes on the miniature Taishan Mountain. (Wang Jing/China Daily) Manual work In the past, jade carving was much more labor-consuming. Artisans had to sit for a long time at a table-like iron rotary machine with cutter bars. Summer or winter, they treadled to drive the machine while picking up abrasive sands usually made from quartz or garnet from a tray of water. It was largely by this machine they cut, carved, drilled, and polished to create miracles on the tough mineral that has long been favored by the Chinese. Since the 1960s, motor-powered rotary machines have been introduced to the industry, along with improved tools such as various grinding heads, cutters, ultrasonic drilling equipment, mechanized grinding beads, and vibratory polishers, Wang Mingying and Shi Guanghai, both from the China University of Geosciences in Beijing, wrote in a 2020 article on the evolution of Chinese jade-carving craftsmanship. According to them, computer numerical control and three-dimensional scanning devices have been increasingly applied in jade carving. However, detailed manual work, such as that used to make eggshell-thin jade vessels, as well as the above-mentioned qiaose and chain carving techniques, cannot be achieved with these machines. Yang Xi, a Suzhou-based national-level intangible cultural heritage inheritor of jade carving, has observed this trend. He says it's quite usual for the younger generation to complete the majority of work with a computer and then continue the carving and polishing by hand. He admits that sometimes even industry insiders cannot tell whether artworks are made by hand or with the assistance of machines. However, the 60-year-old veteran carver sticks to the traditional manual craft and particularly emphasizes the importance and challenge of originality in design. Yang Xi is well-known for his series of works inspired by his hometown, a water town with the typical Jiangnan (the region south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River) temperament. He has also created various works in which he has inserted new expressions into antique craftsmanship, such as incorporating an internal structure of a mechanical watch into a piece of work a rare theme in jade carving and an innovative adaptation of the Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Thousand-Hand Bodhisattva). "The art should always keep pace with the times," he says. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) But for many other industries, the tariffs simply spurred a global reshuffling of manufacturing operations, one that did little to strengthen US production or reduce ties with Chinese firms. Companies have merely shifted their factories to other low-cost countries in Asia or Latin America instead, and US imports from those countries have surged. Some companies have severed their ties with China. But others have retained close connections, even as they have moved their operations out of China. Economists say many companies, both Chinese and multinational, have continued to rely on Chinese products and parts, which are now flowing into the United States from factories set up outside Chinas borders. Connector countries: Kuka Home furniture factory at Hofusan Industrial Park is one of many Chinese companies investing in Mexico. Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images In other words, some Chinese products are merely taking a longer trip around the world on their way to the United States, in an attempt to avoid tariffs. Rather than making global supply chains stronger and more diversified, economists say, this may be weakening them while adding costs for companies and consumers. In a speech in May, Gita Gopinath, the first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, said trade and investment were being rerouted through what she called connector countries, partly offsetting the erosion of more direct links between the United States and China. The role of these connector countries, most notably Mexico and Vietnam, may have helped cushion the global economic impact of direct trade decoupling between the US and China, Gopinath said. But whether it has helped to diversify exposures and increase supply chain resilience remains an open question. Brad Setser, an economist and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said the main effect of US levies on China was to encourage companies to find a way around the bilateral tariff. It reduces bilateral trade; it doesnt impact global trade, he said. Setser added that Chinas role as a global exporter had not diminished, and neither had the United States role as an importer. It was just the countries through which trade was being routed that had shifted. Even though we have less direct bilateral trade, in a global sense, theres one surplus country, China, and theres one deficit country, the US, Setser said. We are still interconnected indirectly. Trade data reflects this: The gap between the goods the United States exports to and imports from China narrowed to $US278 billion in 2023 from $US417 billion in 2018. While that level is set to rebound this year, economists say US imports of goods from China that are covered by tariffs have clearly dropped. The Port of Lianyungang in Jiangsu Province, China. The countrys role as a global exporter had not diminished, one economist said. Credit: Olivia Martin-McGuire At the same time, Chinas exports globally have surged, and US trade deficits with Vietnam, Taiwan, Mexico, Canada and elsewhere have been widening. Economists say exports to the United States from some of those countries now contain more Chinese parts and raw materials than they did before. Trump and his advisers are eyeing these new back doors that Chinese products are using to enter the United States. Trump has proposed an additional 60 per cent tariff on US imports from China, as well as a universal tariff of 10 per cent to 20 per cent on goods from elsewhere. He and his advisers also appear to have doubts about the trade deal they renegotiated with Mexico, called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA. They want to adjust its rules to try to ensure that more Chinese cars and auto parts will not find their way to the United States through Mexico. But it is unclear how effective their efforts will be against the creativity of global companies that are driven by strong financial incentives to maintain access to the US market. Loading In industry after industry, Chinese companies have found footholds abroad that allow them to bypass trade barriers with the United States. After the United States put hefty tariffs on Chinese solar panels, for example, many Chinese companies opened solar factories in Southeast Asia. US solar companies have initiated trade cases, successfully appealing to the government for more protection from these factories. US efforts to block critical minerals and electric vehicle batteries from China from receiving government subsidies have also pushed Chinese companies to set up battery-making subsidiaries in Morocco and Singapore. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size From exhibitions exploring 65,000 years of culture, to acts of love and journeys into the spirit world, these are the art shows you cant miss in 2025. 65,000 YEARS: A SHORT HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN ART Betty Muffler and Maringka Burton, Ngangkari Ngura (Healing Country), 2020. Credit: Courtesy the artists and Iwantja Arts the artists/AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins After a few years of closure, the Potter Museum of Art is reopening with an urgent, vast exhibition: an examination of the rise of Indigenous art in Australia. With the pointed title 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art, the exhibition curated by an inimitable trio, Marcia Langton, AO, Judith Ryan, AM, and Shanysa McConville, alongside consultation with Indigenous custodians. Spanning more than 400 artworks, the show will convey the significance of Indigenous designs, cultural traditions, agency and knowledge plus seven new commissions by leading First Nations artists. Theres a magnificent exhibition book thats already out, pre-empting how the physical show will bear witness to 65,000 years of continuing culture. Potter Museum of Art, May 30 November 23 FRIDA KAHLO: IN HER OWN IMAGE Frida Kahlo in a 1939 photograph. Credit: Nickolas Muray Advertisement Frida Kahlos self-portraits are among the most recognisable 20th-century paintings. Yet, its rare to see the Mexican artists works because many are in private collections or cannot leave Mexico which makes a Bendigo showing even more enticing. While Kahlo painted works on womanhood, cultural resilience, intimacy and disability (she struggled with chronic pain from polio and a bus accident), this show considers Kahlos art through her personal belongings and the vivid adornments she wore in life and paintings. The exhibition will feature Kahlos clothes, make-up, accessories and medical corsets many sealed in a bathroom for 50 years alongside photographs, plus one of her most celebrated paintings, Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird. Bendigo Art Gallery, March 15 July 13 LINDY LEE Lindy Lees Fluctuations in the Abyss, 2022. Credit: Mark Pokorney No one creates art about the nature of being like Lindy Lee. This show marks Lees first Melbourne exhibition since she unveiled her landmark, walk-through sculpture, Ouroboros, at the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) a few months ago. The most NGA has ever paid for a work ($14 million), its the pinnacle of her 50-year practice exploring her Chinese ancestry through Taoism and Chan (Zen) Buddhism. In connecting materials with meaning, Lee will exhibit alongside two emerging artists, Jingwei Bu and Angie Pai. All Chinese-Australians, the artists share a deep cultural bond, using materials to reflect existence. While Lee works with wood, metal and fire, Bus tea-stained pieces capture the residue of traditional ceremonies, and Pai reimagines traditional Chinese garments. Sullivan+Strumpf, May 15 June 14 JUDY WATSON Judy Watson, Memory scar with banksia leaves, 2020. Credit: Andrew Curtis With powerful paintings, drawings and sculptures, all connected to the land and traditions of the Waanyi culture, Judy Watson was recently the subject of a truly moving survey at the Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane. Her work is equally ethereal and politically potent, often connecting to her matrilineal history. Shell be showing in Melbourne with a new solo exhibition following a residency in Taiwan, art engagements in Japan and Norway, and travels in France. In Taiwan, outside the nearest city of Taichung, Watson has been working on new pieces with artist Yuma Taru, an Atayal Aboriginal artist. Indeed, connecting with others and sharing knowledge is inherent to Watsons practice. Tolarno Galleries, November 15 -December 13 Advertisement FIVE ACTS OF LOVE Phantom 7, Familiar Phantoms, film, 42, Larissa Sansour and Sren Lind, 2023. In this show, love will extend beyond romance to encompass five acts: resistance, revolution, intimacy, memory and annihilation. The exhibition is also about familial love, friendship and spiritual love and how love is a way of communicating about internal and external worlds. Some artists will also posit love as a binding force between resistance movements across the world. Its refreshing to have a show about love when the emotion doesnt abound as subject matter that much in contemporary art even though art itself could be constituted as an act of love. So far, the confirmed artists are Hoda Afshar, Abdul-Rahman Abdullah, D Harding, Khaled Sabsabi, Larissa Sansour and Hossein Valamanesh. Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, June 28 -August 24 PAST IS PROLOGUE: FOUR DECADES OF GERTRUDE Robyn Stacey, Ice. Gertrude Contemporary, an icon synonymous with contemporary art in Melbourne, is celebrating its 40th anniversary with four interrelated exhibitions that each tell the story of a distinct era in Gertrudes history. The series has four groups of curators, and starts with the founding community of Gertrudes first decade, 1985 to 1995. The second decade focuses on three artists, Mutlu Cerkez, Damiano Bertoli and Masato Takasaka. The years 2005 to 2015 will be about discourse and legacy, while the final 10 years will centre on structural critiques of the art world. Gertrudes renowned studio program has supported countless artists, and in many ways the four shows will be a recent history of contemporary art in Melbourne. Gertrude Contemporary, February 8 - October 14 TARRAWARRA BIENNIAL 2025: WE ARE EAGLES Advertisement Walawuru Tjukurpa, Story of the Eagles. The TarraWarra Biennial is being put together by one of the best curators right now, Yorta Yorta woman Kimberley Moulton. Themed under the title We Are Eagles, this years biennial will feature new works by 22 artists, centring cultural connections to the land, sky, stars, objects and memory. It spans ancestral knowledge to visions of the future. Taking a First Peoples curatorial approach, the show is about resisting colonialism as captured in the show title. We Are Eagles is taken from a speech given in 1983 about the colonisation of Australia, where Yorta Yorta activist and pastor Sir Doug Nicholls advocated for equal rights, stating that we do not want chickenfeed we are not chickens; we are eagles. TarraWarra Museum of Art, March 29 - July 20 THE VEIL Still from Hayley Millar Bakers Eternity the Butterfly, 2025. Ever since the 2019 Hilma af Klint exhibition at the Guggenheim in New York, the spirit world has surged in contemporary art. And its a good thing for too long such a key part of many artists practices has been overlooked. Buxton Contemporarys take on the spirit world is through the idea of the veil, looking at how otherworldly experiences, often invisible or concealed, are central to existence. With works spanning photography, film, weaving, fibre craft, printmaking and kinetic sculpture, the show has a terrific array of artists including Hayley Millar Baker, Hannah Gartside, Aneta Grzeszykowska, Glenda Nicholls, Lisa Waup and Lena Yarinkura. Buxton Contemporary, June 20 November 2 BLAK IN-JUSTICE: INCARCERATION AND RESILIENCE Advertisement Missing You Netflix If youre a fan of crime writer Harlan Coben (and obviously a lot of us are; hes sold more than 80 million books), youll likely be loving the adaptations of his twisty novels. This week, Missing You, based on his 2014 novel, has dropped on Netflix the fifth in Cobens 14-series deal with the streaming service. Lenny Henry as Clint and Rosalind Eleazar as Kat in Missing You. Credit: Vishal Sharma/Netflix As with other Coben adaptations, including Fool Me Once, The Stranger and Gone for Good, the action is transposed to Britain (Coben, who often serves as an executive producer, enjoys working with a British creative team, recently explaining on US talk show CBS Mornings that he thinks theres something that really seems to work in the hybrid of the American and the British that we put together in the shows). The screenplay for Missing You is by Victoria Asare-Archer, who wrote two episodes of the 2021 adaptation of Cobens Stay Close, and shes kept the plot suitably propulsive the series comes in at a very bingeable five episodes. Another tobacconist has been targeted in an early-morning arson attack, this time in the Logan suburb of Eagleby. Police were called to the business on River Hills Road about 3.30am on Tuesday after reports two men in dark clothing were trying to break in. Failing to gain entry at either the back or front, the pair allegedly set fire to items at the front of the store. The Fortitude Valley tobacconist attacked this month. Credit: William Davis Members of the public and fire crews extinguished the small blaze, with the business reportedly suffering only minor damage. Police have upgraded a domestic violence charge against a Sunshine Coast man after a woman died before Christmas under circumstances that remain unclear. Officers were called to a home at Gannawarra Street in Currimundi, a suburb of Caloundra, about 4.40pm on December 22. A 47-year-old woman was found with non-life-threatening injuries, police said at the time, and was taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Police were called to a home at Gannawarra Street in Currimundi following reports of a disturbance. The woman died in hospital the following day. An autopsy is yet to be completed. While the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been widely reported as dismissing speculations that it plans an upward review of tariffs by January next year, it does seem as though one operator, satellite internet service Starlink, will have its planned tariff increase approved. The NCC has insisted that the procedures regarding hikes in tariffs are rigorous, data-driven and evidence-based, blaming some mobile operators for speculation on the subject. As the Nation news service notes, a source points out that for now the Commission does not have a Management Board to approve such review. In any case, after approval a study would need to be carried out, along with a stakeholder engagement process and other inputs. There would then need to be the announcement of a timeframe for implementation to allow everyone to be prepared for the increase. It's also been suggested that, based on a 2013 review, operators still have windows to increase tariffs on their own, though the Nations source suggests the aim is for the NCC or government to raise prices and get the blame. Nevertheless, naira devaluation has been an issue for operators this year, along with operational costs, notably the cost of diesel for standby power. Meanwhile satellite internet service Starlink has informed its Nigerian customers that it will raise monthly subscription prices, with the new rates set to take effect on 27 January 2025. The NCC rejected Starlinks previous increase in October on the grounds that the company had not sought the necessary regulatory approval. Now, however, news reports suggest that the NCC is set to approve an increase in the first quarter of 2025. Sad State THE comment by Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee, daughter of former President of India Mr. Pranab Kumar Mukherjee, that the decay in the Congress party needs a serious introspection, deserves a serious consideration. She has stressed repeatedly that the Congress party finds itself in a sad state of affairs that require an immediate and mature handling. Though Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee refers to the bad treatment the Congress party gave to her illustrious father, the context is much larger and encompasses the entire history of the countrys premier political party -- right up to this moment. She insists that there is an urgent need of a serious self-examination by the party so that corrective measures could be undertaken and the party is saved from a total collapse. Nobody can disagree with Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee on this count. Of course, it is essential to take into account the immediate reference to the undesirable treatment the Congress party meted out to (the late) Mr. Pranab Kumar Mukherjee. His daughter has stated in neat detail how the Congress party did not even pass an official condolence resolution when Mr. Pranab Mukherjee passed away. She has given an expression to many such points tormenting her from within for years. As a person from a family dedicated to the Congress party, Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee has every reason to expect a fair and honourable treatment to her father (who made a great contribution to the larger national good). She and her family expected that the Congress party recognised the importance of Mr. Pranab Mukherjee as a national personality -- and build an aura of his worth around his name. Unfortunately, most such legitimate expectations stand belied today in the Congress, thanks, of course, to the self-centrist attitude adopted by Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Mr. Rahul Gandhi and Mrs. Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra who claim the legacy of their Nehru roots. The threesome has ensured that the command of the party and the credit for its success of whatever nature does not go to anybody outside the family. Not only has the Nehru-Gandhi family cornered the glory but has also stifled growth of most other Congress leaders -- in national politics or in internal organisational matters. That obsessiveness that caused the Congress party heavy damage -- by way of loss of leadership layers often from which emerge leaders of good worth and genuine merit. That stubbed process has ensured that no true and genuine leaders come up in the partys internal structure. The reference to decay by Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee talks of all this -- metaphorically or materially. It is common observation of even the common people that the Congress party has lost its sense of history, its sense of leadership tradition, its sense of national cause, its sense of the need to make higher sacrifices to build the organisation to serve larger purposes -- larger than personal aggrandisement of a handful few at the top. In the narrow exercise of leadership domination, the organisation of the Congress party started decaying -- which has been referred to by Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee. Very clearly, she said that the Gandhi family did not allow anybody else to rise above itself. Of course, the exception to this could be of Dr. Manmohan Singh for whom the party appears to gear up to kick up much political dust. But there also is a reason to suspect some ulterior motive on the part of the Gandhi family -- to use Dr. Manmohan Singhs name as a tool with which to beat the Narendra Modi camp. And that makes the point raised by Ms. Sharmishtha Mukherjee stronger and more worthy of serious consideration. Of course, under the Gandhi family, nothing spectacular could be expected in the Congress. But a critical point has been brought to fore by her. While its been a holiday season in many parts of the world, its been a busy week for Safaricom Ethiopia at least in terms of significant announcements involving M-Pesa services and coverage growth. In the past few days Safaricom M-Pesa (the digital financial services side of the business) has entered a new strategic partnership with Nyala Insurance, one of the leading private insurance companies in Ethiopia, to integrate Nyala Insurance into the M-Pesa ecosystem. This, we are told, will allow the company to offer its customers secure, efficient and seamless mobile payment options for insurance services. Through this partnership, Safaricom says, Nyala Insurance customers will now have the ability to make premium payments, policy renewals and other insurance-related transactions directly via M-Pesa. As part of the agreement, Safaricom M-Pesa will provide Nyala Insurance with access to the M-Pesa platform, enabling it to accept mobile payments in real time. This will allow Nyala Insurance to reach a wider customer base, streamline its payment processes and offer greater flexibility to its clients. As well as expanding access to digital financial services across Ethiopia, Safaricom Ethiopia has been able to announce the launch of its network in Assosa, a city in northwestern Ethiopia. In fact in recent weeks Safaricom Ethiopia has introduced its services in several major cities in Western Ethiopia, including Nekemte, Gambella, Metu, and Bedele. Safaricom says that its fast 4G network in these cities in Western Ethiopia delivers seamless connectivity in the cities and their surrounding areas, including the airports. The company has also opened distributor shops in these cities to offer Safaricoms products and services, on top of providing operational support for customers. The expansion, it adds, has created a total of over 600 jobs in these cities, further contributing to local economic development. Network coverage now reaches half of the Ethiopian population across central, northern, southern, eastern and western areas. Book on Comrade A B Bardhan to be released on January 2 Business Reporter : TO MARK the occasion of birth centenary of Comrade A B Bardhan, a book in Marathi language Bhia A B Bardhan Ek Zanzawat will be released on January 2, 2025 at Parwana Bhawan on Kingsway in the city at 3pm. Ajay Patnaik, former Dean of the School of International Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University (J NU) in New Delhi, will release the book while Dr Bhalchandra Kango will be the guest of honour. Addressing a press conference held here on Monday, Comrade Mohan Sharma, National Secretary, ITUC, said, We are organising various event throughout the country to mark birth centenary of Comrade ABBardhan. As a part of this, we are releasing a book highlighting thelife and struggle of Comrade A B Bardhan, he added. Dr V S Jog has written the book with Mohan Sharma. We have tried to cover A B Bardhans contributions to the society as an activist, a legislator, trade unionist, writer, theorist and a staunch defender of the idea of a secular-democratic Republic of India in the book. Ad D S Buche, ComC M Morya were also present at the press meet. Countdown to New Year: Raipur abuzz with festive preparations Twinkle Sundrani, K K Unnikrishnan Nair , Jiwan Lata Lakhra, Dewanshi Tiwari By Ritika Nair RAIPUR, ON the New Years eve Raipur is buzzing with excitement. Local markets are crowded as residents rush to buy party attire, gifts, and decorations. Popular spots like Pandri Cloth Market and MG Road are witnessing a surge in customers preparing for the festivities. For Raipurs Keralite community, the New Year celebration blends native traditions with the citys vibrant culture. K K Unnikrishnan Nair from the Raipur Kerala Samajam explains, We celebrate both Christmas and New Year together, uniting Keralites of all religions.. Jiwan Lata Lakhra, a Mantralaya employee, emphasises the spirit of giving. We start with mass prayers at church, followed by family gatherings and a picnic, she says. Her New Year resolution is to assist the needy. College student Dewanshi Tiwari recalls past New Year celebrations with friends: We would host impromptu parties, cook together, and enjoy the fireworks. This year, she plans outings, a bonfire, and a visit to Ram Mandir on New Year. Manoj and Shobha Daga, married for 30 years, plan to celebrate with their extended family. We gather for dinner, singing, dancing, and creating memories, they share. Their New Year resolution is to explore serene hilly areas and sacred sites. Twinkle Sundrani, a fashion designer, notes that while modern trends now dominate, many still hold onto traditional New Year customs. The youth prefer parties, but we continue the old traditions, she says. As the clock ticks, people are finalizing their plans. While some opt for intimate gatherings, others are gearing up for city-wide events. This year, we are heading to a rooftop party to welcome 2025, said a young reveler. Raipur is all set to ring in the New Year with joy, sparkling lights, and music. The police have made arrangements to ensure safety, promising a memorable night for all. Doordarshan to screen restored version of 'Manthan' as tribute to Shyam Benegal New Delhi, Dec 31 (PTI) National broadcaster Doordarshan on Tuesday announced that it will ring in the new year by screening the 4K restored version of Shyam Benegal's film "Manthan" as homage to the veteran filmmaker. Benegal, the pioneer of the parallel cinema movement in Indian cinema in the 1970s and 1980s, died on December 23 at a hospital here due to chronic kidney disease. He was 90. Film Heritage Foundation (FHF), which restored the 1976 classic film for its premiere in the Cannes Classic section at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, shared the update on its official X page. According to FHF, "Manthan" will be broadcast on Doordarshan on Wednesday at 8 pm. "To pay tribute to the late Shyam Benegal, Doordarshan will begin the new year with a screening of 'Manthan' (1976) restored by FHF with support from the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (Amul) on Jan 1, 2025 at 8 p.M. On Doordarshan," the foundation said. "Manthan" was inspired by the groundbreaking milk cooperative movement by Dr Verghese Kurien that transformed India into one of the largest milk producers in the world. The Hindi film, titled "Churning" in English, was financed by 5 lakh farmers of Gujarat 48 years ago who contributed Rs 2 each. The opening credits of the movie read: "500,000 Farmers of Gujarat present." "Manthan" narrates the story of how a young veterinary doctor (Girish Karnad) fights against oppressive forces to establish a milk cooperative that empowers rural farmers. It also starred Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Amrish Puri. ED traces Rs 33 cr assets of MPs ex-constable, his aides Summons have been issued to Sharma, his family members and associates Gaud and Jaiswal for questioning. NEW DELHI : THE Enforcement Directorate on Monday said it has found documents related to assets worth about Rs 33 crore after it conducted searches against a former Madhya Pradesh Transport Department official and his associates as part of a money laundering probe linked to a disproportionate assets case. About eight premises in State capital Bhopal, Gwalior and Jabalpur were raided by the federal probe agency on December 27 in the case against Saurabh Sharma, a former constable of the State Transport Department, his associate Chetan Singh Gaur and some others including Sharad Jaiswal and Rohit Tiwari. The ED said in a statement that these persons were the suspected beneficiary of the proceeds of crime or have allegedly abetted in the laundering of the same. The money laundering case stems from an FIR of Lokayukta police of the MP Government against Sharma where it is alleged that he amassed disproportionate assets worth crores of rupees in the name of his family members and associated firms and companies. The federal agency said details of bank accounts and properties were identified during the searches and an analysis found that Sharma had bought a number of properties in the name of his family members, friends and companies in which his close associates were directors. Movable assets (fixed deposits) of more than Rs 6 crore were identified in the name of Chetan Singh Gaur and bank deposits of more than Rs 4 crore were found in the name of family members and companies of Sharma, it said. Some documents related to immovable properties worth more than Rs 23 crore in the name of various companies and family members of Sharma were found along with other incriminating documents, the ED claimed. These assets were allegedly purchased and acquired by Sharma from illegal money obtained through corrupt practices while he was working as a constable in the State Transport Department, the agency said. The Income Tax Department had seized gold bars of 52 kgs and cash of Rs 11 from the vehicle of Chetan Singh Gaur sometime back. Indias defence exports crossed record Rs 21,000 crore: Rajnath Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi and others during his visit at Army War College, at Mhow, in Indore district of Madhya Pradesh on Monday. Our Correspondent and Agencies MHOW (MP), DEFENCE Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday that Indias defence exports have crossed a record Rs 21,000 crore from Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago. Addressing officers at the Army War College (AWC) in more than two-centuries-old Mhow Cantonment, Singh said a target has been set to achieve defence exports of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. He said mastering frontier technologies is the need of the hour in the constantly evolving times, noting that military training centres are playing a crucial role in equipping and readying soldiers to deal with future challenges. Our defence exports, which were around Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago, have crossed the record figure of Rs 21,000 crore today. We have set an export target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, Singh said. He said Made-in-India equipment is being exported to other countries. Singh mentioned radical changes in warfare in his speech, saying that unconventional methods like information warfare, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based warfare, proxy warfare, electromagnetic warfare, space warfare, and cyber-attacks are posing a big challenge. He stressed the need for the military to be well-trained and equipped to fight off such attacks and lauded training centres in Mhow for their valuable contributions. Singh commended the training centres for constantly improving their training curriculum as per changing times, and striving to make the personnel fighting fit for every kind of challenge. The Defence Minister said the Modi Government is committed to strengthening integration and jointness among the three services. In the times to come, the armed forces will be able to face challenges together in a better and more efficient way, he added. Singh said high-level training is provided to officers of all wings in the Mhow Cantonment. He appealed to officers to explore the possibility of promoting integration through training in areas such as weapons training in Infantry School; AI and communication technology in Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), and leadership - junior and senior command in AWC. Singh said that some officers will work as defence attaches in the future, and they should strive to secure national interests at the global level. When you take up this post of defence attaches, you should imbibe the Governments vision of aatmanirbhar Bharat. Only through self-reliance can India strengthen its defence capabilities and gain more respect on the world stage, he added. The Defence Minister is on a two-day visit to MP since Sunday. He said the Government is committed to making India one of the strongest economic and military powers in the world. Economic prosperity is possible only when full attention is paid to security. Similarly, the security system will be robust only when the economy is strong. Both complement each other, he added. Indias orbital docking 2 spacecraft injected into orbit, ISRO eyes another tech feat SRIHARIKOTA, (Andhra Pradesh) TWO spacecraft that would aid ISRO in demonstrating space docking, a critical technology for future space missions got separated successfully and were placed into the desired orbit late on Monday, ISRO said. PSLV C60 mission accomplished as of SpaDeX spacecraft is considered, said Mission director M Jayakumar. ISRO chief S Somanath said the rocket has placed the satellites in the right orbit of 475 km circular orbit, after over 15 minutes of flight. So, as far as we are concerned, the rocket has placed the spacecraft in the right orbit and the Spadex satellites have moved one behind the other, and over the period of time, it will pick up further distance, travel about 20 km away and then the rendezvous and docking process will start. And we hope that the docking process can happen in another one week and the nominal time is going to be approximately January 7, he said in his address from the Mission Control Center. And in this mission the very important part is POEM-4 (which was currently on) with 24 payloads from startups, industries, academic institutions and also from ISRO centres, he said. These are scheduled to be fired late on Monday night. Dubbed as a prelude to ISRO setting up its own Space Station by 2035, the PSLV-C60 mission would also make India join an elite club in achieving this feat which is expected to take place in the coming days. The 44.5 metre tall rocket carried two spacecraft -- Spacecraft A and B, each weighing 220kg which would help in space docking, satellite servicing and interplanetary missions. After the culmination of the 25 hour countdown which commenced on Sunday, the rocket lifted-off at 10 pm from the First Launch Pad at this spaceport, emanating thick orange coloured fumes and thunderous sound in the island, located about 135 km east of Chennai. According to ISRO scientists, the two spacecraft-Spacecraft A (SDX01) or the Chaser and Spacecraft B (SDX02) or the Target would be merged together later at an altitude of about 470 km after travelling at the same speed and distance. By mastering the docking technologies, ISRO is set to enhance its operational flexibility and also expand its mission horizons. This technology is essential for some of Indias space ambitions like Indian on Moon, getting samples from the Moon (Chandrayaan-4 mission), building and operation of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station. In-space docking technology is essential when multiple rocket launches are required to achieve common mission objectives. Through this mission, India is marching towards becoming the fourth country in the world to have space docking technology, ISRO said. The others to achieve this technological feat are China, Russia and the US. India becomes the fourth to join the select league of nations to seek Space docking, through its own indigenously-developed Bharatiya Docking System, said Union Minister Jitendra Singh on X. While the Spacecraft has reached the desired orbit, in the coming days, scientists would take measures to merge the two by reducing the distance between them, ultimately leading to the docking of the spacecraft. The launch of PSLV-C60 would be the last mission undertaken by the ISRO in 2024. Incidentally, the space agency began 2024 with the successful launch of PSLV-C58/XPOSAT mission on January 1. Mondays PSLV rocket also becomes the first vehicle to be integrated upto the fourth stage at the PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) that has been established at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre here. MD worth Rs 55.40 lakh seized by city police before entering market Staff Reporter : In a major anti-narcotics operation, the city police seized half-a-kilo of MD (Mephedrone), worth Rs 55.4 lakh, that was brought to the city for illegal distribution during the New Year celebrations. The police have arrested five persons, including notorious gangster Sumit Chintalwar, along with Pawan alias Mihir Mishra, Palash Diwekar, and two others. The police received a tip-off about a large stock of MD being brought into the city for the New Year celebrations. Acting on this information, a special team led by Senior Police Inspector Gajanan Gulhane set up a trap near Koradi Naka. At around 11.45 am, they stopped a car and found Sumit Chintalwar (35), a resident of Vishwakarma Nagar, along with his accomplices Palash Diwekar (21) from Ramai Nagar and Pawan Mishra (39) from Manewada, Besa, in the vehicle. Upon searching the car, the police found half a kilo of MD hidden inside. The trio revealed that they had brought the drugs to Nagpur to deliver to two more persons, Sheikh Atik Farid Sheikh alias Bhuru (25) and Manish Ranjit Kushwaha (45), both residents of Hudkeshwar. The police took them into custody as well. In the operation, the police also seized five mobile phones and the car, collectively worth Rs 66.21 lakh. The main smuggler, Ajay Sisodia, a resident of Chaumahla, Rajasthan, is reportedly absconding. A team is now searching for him. MD smuggled from Rajasthan According to police, Sumit and his associates had procured the MD from Rajasthan to sell in Nagpur. They travelled through Madhya Pradesh before arriving in the city. The operation follows a recent seizure of MD worth Rs 90 lakh, which was also brought from Madhya Pradesh and seized from health worker Kapil Khobragade. Police stated that smuggling of MD from Rajasthan has increased in recent months. Chintalwar, liquor smuggler turned MD smuggler Sumit Chintalwar, along with Pawan Mishra, Farid Sheikh, and Manish Kushwaha, all arrested in this smuggling case, have criminal records. Sumit Chintalwar has been involved in serious criminal activities, with two MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) cases, along with over ten cases including murder, extortion, intimidation, and assault. Earlier, he was indulged in liquor smuggling and made huge property through the business. Pawan Mishra is also a notorious gangster with multiple cases against him in nine police stations. Farid Sheikh and Manish Kushwaha have also been linked to several MD-related cases. MSCW directs cops to act on Malis complaint Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with actor Prajakta Mali during a meeting at his Sagar residence in Mumbai. (PTI) MUMBAI : THE Maharashtra State Commission for Women (MSCW) directed Mumbai Police on Monday to take immediate action and submit a factual report on actor Prajakta Malis complaint that MLA Suresh Dhas had made inappropriate remarks about her. Mali lodged a complaint with the commission alleging that Dhas inappropriate and defamatory remarks impacted her personal and social life. She also alleged that defamatory content was circulated on social media following these remarks. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women informed through its X handle that it had received Malis complaint and initiated action. The commission stated that the issue was serious and directed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to act immediately and submit a factual report. When asked about a complaint lodged by Mali with the womens panel, Dhas said this issue was over for him and he was ready to face consequences. He also said the focus on the Santosh Deshmukh murder case and crime in Beed should not be shifted. The MSCW tweet comes a day after Mali met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his residence in Mumbai. Mah BJP chief advises restraint MUMBAI, Dec 30 (PTI) MAHARASHTRA BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule asked party leaders to refrain from making remarks that could impede the investigation into the murder of Santosh Deshmukh. The State BJP chief, who holds Revenue portfolio, appealed to BJP workers to trust CM Devendra Fadnavis leadership.I appealed to the public representatives of my party as well as to others to refrain from making any comments that would create a hurdle in the ongoing investigation, the BJP leader said. Mumbai teen is youngest female to scale worlds 7 highest peaks NEW DELHI : IN A stunning display of determination and skill, Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old student from Navy Childrens School in Mumbai, has made history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Demonstrating an extraordinary feat of mountaineering prowess, the 17-year-old adventurer has conquered Africa (Mt Kilimanjaro), Europe (Mt Elbrus), Australia (Mt Kosciuszko), South America (Mt Aconcagua), North America (Mt Denali), Asia (Mt Everest) and culminating the current climb in Antarctica. The young Everester reached the summit of Mt Vincent Antarctica along with her father, Commander S Karthikeyan, on December 24 at 17:20 hrs Chilean Standard Time to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, the Indian Navy said. The Indian Navy congratulated Kaamya Karthikeyan and her father on accomplishing this momentous milestone. Taking to its official handle on X, SpokespersonNavy posted on X, Kaamya Karthikeyan, class XII student at @IN_NCS Mumbai, scripts history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale seven highest peaks across seven continents. The Indian Navy congratulates Kaamya Karthikeyan and her father on accomplishing this momentous milestone, it posted. Navy Children School in Mumbai also congratulated the 17-year-old and posted, Breaking barriers and reaching new heights! Kaamya Karthikeyan, Class XII, Navy Children School, Mumbai, becomes the youngest female in the world to conquer the Seven Summits - the highest peaks on all seven continents! A moment of immense pride for NCS Mumbai! Kaamya Karthikeyan was sixteen years old when she scaled Mount Everest. She said she was 7 when she took her first trek in Uttarakhand. Her outstanding accomplishments have not only earned her the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar. Police tighten grip on criminals ahead of New Year festivities Knife-attackers, history-sheeters and other criminals presented at Crime Branch. Staff Reporter RAIPUR, With the New Year approaching, the Raipur Police, under the direction of Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Lal Umed Singh, have intensified efforts to ensure security and maintain law and order in the city. On December 30, 2024, over 50 individuals, including knife attackers, history-sheeters, and other criminal elements, were presented before the Crime Branch. This move is part of an ongoing crackdown aimed at deterring criminal activities during the festive period. The operation, led by Additional Superintendent of Police Crime Sandeep Mittal and Deputy Superintendent of Police Crime Sanjay Singh, brought together individuals from various police station jurisdictions. Dr Singh personally took the parade of the offenders, issuing strict warnings to refrain from any criminal activities. He instructed them to report regularly to their local police stations, mark their attendance weekly, and avoid associating with criminal elements. They were also advised to inform the police about any criminal activity in their areas and cooperate in maintaining peace and security. Additionally, a strong message was sent to those flaunting weapons such as knives, swords, air guns, and pistol-like lighter guns on social media. Individuals who have created social media accounts with names like goonda, don, mafia, or gangster and have uploaded incriminating photos and videos were sternly warned. The police have engaged the cyber cell to delete such profiles and prevent glorification of criminal behavior online. This is not the first such initiative by the Raipur Police. Similar parades were conducted on December 18 and December 21, during which more than 150 individuals were presented before the Crime Branch. With this latest effort, the total number of offenders paraded has crossed 200. These measures reflect the police departments commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the citizens during the New Year celebrations. The crackdown serves as a warning to criminal elements while fostering confidence among the public in the polices efforts to maintain law and order. Vietcombank Remittance was honored as "Remittance Company of the Year - Vietnam" for the third consecutive time by Asian Banking & Finance on Dec. 24. This achievement affirms the quality of services and the growth of Vietcombank Remittance, recognizing the company's efforts and demonstrating its position in both the domestic and international remittance markets. Vietcombank Remittance is the only remittance company in Vietnam to organize the Client Conference for three consecutive years successfully. This year's event featured participation from strategic partners in Taiwan, South Korea, the United States, and several other countries, highlighting the companys role in fostering international cooperation and collaboration. The company consistently supports government agencies in developing policies to enhance remittance resources. Vietcombank Remittance actively participates in programs organized by the Overseas Vietnamese Committee of Ho Chi Minh City to promote collaboration among stakeholders and increase the efficiency of remittance flows. The company has also made significant contributions to Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee's project on "Optimizing the Effectiveness of Remittance Resources." Vietcombank Remittance staff deliver money to customers. Photo courtesy of Vietcombank Remittance Vietcombank Remittance is committed to collaborating with the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee to implement specific initiatives such as supporting the improvement of policy mechanisms and facilitating convenient conditions for overseas Vietnamese to send money home. It collaborates closely with regulatory agencies to create clear legal frameworks and facilitate the use of technology in remittance operations. The company is leading initial efforts to establish the Vietnam Remittance Association to elevate the industry's position on the international stage. This association is expected to serve as a bridge between the government, businesses, and the overseas Vietnamese community, ensuring policies are geared toward sustainable development. STF busts gang financing two-wheelers with forged documents, 3 arrested; 21 vehicles seized STF Inspector, Nikita Shukla, accompanied by her team, seen with seized vehicles. (Pic by Anil Tiwari) Staff Reporter : In a major breakthrough, Special Task Force (STF) Jabalpur busted a gang involved in financing of two wheelers through forged documents. STF have arrested three members of the gang and seized 21 two-wheelers amounting to Rs 25 lakh from them. The arrested have been identified as Prashant Kushwaha, Resident of Ranjhi who Acted as a broker, facilitating vehicle financing, Indrajeet Kushwaha, resident of Ranjhi who used the documents of unsuspecting individuals to finance two-wheelers and Praveen Singh, Resident of Dhanoura, Seoni who purchased financed vehicles and resold them at higher prices in rural areas. Under the direction of STF Special Director General of Police Pankaj Kumar Srivastava (IPS), STF units were instructed to identify and act against individuals involved in organized crimes. Acting on this directive, the Jabalpur STF unit uncovered the fraud under the supervision of STF, SP, Rajesh Singh Bhadoria and AIG Vineet Kumar Choudhary. The operation was led by DSP STF Santosh Tiwari along with Inspector Nikita Shukla and her team. STF Jabalpur, Inspector, Nikita Shukla disclosed this while addressing a press conference, on Monday. Inspector, Shukla informed that the gang targeted unsuspecting individuals, using their documents to create fake identities for financing vehicles. These vehicles were then transported to rural areas like Seoni and other remote locations for resale. The investigation began when Geeta Kushwaha, a resident of Ranjhi, informed that her documents were misused. She alleged that Prashant, a gang member, took her documents under the pretext of availing loans and used them to finance vehicles. Later, she found the fraud when attempting to finance a mobile phone. Upon verification of the information, the STF registered a case against the accused. During the investigation, it was revealed that the gang, led by Prashant Kushwaha, involved members Indrajeet Kushwaha, Vivek Singh Rajput, and Praveen Singh, along with other accomplices, including women. Prashant Kushwaha was traced in Uttar Pradesh. Acting on a tip-off, STF apprehended him at Jabalpur Railway Station. His arrest was pivotal, with significant contributions from Rahul Raghuvanshi in tracking his movements. The STF seized 21 two-wheelers and a large cache of forged documents during the probe. Praveen Singh, who operated a Jewelry shop in Dhanoura, provided down payments for vehicles purchased with forged documents. After financing, Prashant and Indrajeet handed over the vehicles to Praveen, who resold them in rural areas without the knowledge of the original owners. The investigation revealed involvement of agents from financial companies such as Kotak Mahindra, ICICI, and Bajaj Finance. STF is working to identify these agents and trace other intermediaries involved in the fraud. The operation was successful due to contributions of Inspector Nikita Shukla, Head Constables Vijay Kori, Anjani Pathak, Vijay Tiwari, and Constables Rahul Raghuvanshi, Praveen Bawaria, Rahul Rajak, Rupesh Rai, and Rahul Yadav. Training camp on Annual Survey of Industries held Business Reporter : THE National Statistics Office (Field Operations Division), Regional Office, Nagpur, organised one-day training camp on Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) on Monday in association with MIDC Industrial Association (MIA House), at MIDC Hingna, Nagpur. Srinivas Uppala, Deputy Director General, NSO (FOD), Zonal Office, Nagpur inaugurated the programme. Ajay Agrawal, Vice President MIA was also present in inaugural session. On the occasion, Agrawal assured full cooperation from the MIDC Industries Association (MIA) and requested the all factory owners to co-operate with National Statistics Office (Field Operations Division), Regional Office, Nagpur for providing appropriate and correct information for compiling the ASI returns. Distinguished guests and participants were welcomed by Ranga Sreenivasulu, Joint Director, National Statistics Office (Field Operations Division), Regional Office, Nagpur. He briefed the participants about the importance of the Annual Survey of Industries. The survey has been started with an issues of notices on October 4, 2024 for all selected units/factories for submission of ASI return under the provisions of the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008(7 of 2009) as amended in 2017 & Rules framed there under in 2011. Srinivas Uppala, in his inaugural address stated that the Annual Survey of Industries is the principal source of Industrial Statistics in India. It plays a key role in assessing the changes in the growth and structure of the registered units in the manufacturing sector. As, It provides data on various vital aspects of the registered factories for use in the estimation plan of National Income, preparation of WPI weightage diagram, studies of industrial structure and policy formulation by Central/State Government among others. The purpose of this training programme was to create general awareness and publicity amongst the factory owners, besides, self e-compilation and submission of ASI return. Sushil Mohan, Sr. Statistical officer, conducted the proceedings while Md. Mohatsim, Sr. Statistical officer, NSO (FOD), Zonal Office, Nagpur, proposed the vote of thanks. President Joe Biden made a commitment to prioritize human rights in American foreign policy, said Under Secretary of State Uzra Zeya in remarks at the Human Rights Defender Award Ceremony. [W]eve delivered important progress and innovations that will leave a lasting legacy on human rights around the globe, including leveraging global institutions to address U.S. human rights priorities, where we made a firm commitment to reassert U.S. multilateral leadership, return to UN bodies like the Human Rights Council, and build new ties with new and emerging partners. Resulting milestone outcomes included suspending Russia from the UN Human Rights Council due to its invasion of Ukraine, and forging global consensus on the first-ever UN General Assembly resolution on advancing safe, secure, and trustworthy artificial intelligence for sustainable development. We also secured the worlds first treaty on AI at the Council of Europe, which defines a shared vision for how rights-respecting governments will approach AI in a way that is consistent with respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, said Under Secretary Zeya. We also employed novel and diverse accountability tools to hold human rights abusers accountable, said Under Secretary Zeya. We expanded our toolkit with the strategic goal of changing behavior and deterring would-be violators. Through close cooperation with the Departments of Commerce and Treasury, we used export controls and sanctions to hold commercial spyware vendors like NSO Group, Intellexa, Cytrox, and others accountable for selling malicious cyber intrusion tools to those repressing human rights and threatening human rights defenders. The State Department furthered these efforts by implementing visa restrictions on individuals who misuse commercial spyware or derive a financial benefit from the misuse of this technology as well as their family members. And finally, the U.S. has tackled new and emerging threats head-on, declared Under Secretary Zeya. Weve put transnational repression, or TNR, on the agenda of the UN and instituted a new policy at home to restrict visas for perpetrators. Weve also provided more than $16 million in active programs to those defenders working to counter corruption, including the journalists working to expose it. The United States stands well positioned to continue to defend and promote human rights around the world. U.S. college students pose for photos in Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) U.S. college students pose for photos in Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) A U.S. college student tries a set of Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) A U.S. college student tries a set of Peking Opera costumes in Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Dec. 30, 2024. At the invitation of Shijiazhuang Foreign Language School, a group of U.S. teachers and students visit Shijiazhuang from Dec. 25 to Dec. 31. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) Editor: WRX UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks to the press outside the Security Council Chamber at the UN headquarters in New York, on Dec. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie E) "I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people," the UN chief said. UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for making 2025 "a new beginning" in his message for the New Year. "Throughout 2024, hope has been hard to find. Wars are causing enormous pain, suffering and displacement. Inequalities and divisions are rife -- fueling tensions and mistrust," Guterres said. He said that the globe has just endured a decade of deadly heat and the top ten 10 hottest years on record have happened in the last 10 years, including 2024. "This is climate breakdown -- in real time," Guterres stressed. "We must exit this road to ruin -- and we have no time to lose." The UN chief urged countries to put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions, and supporting the transition to a renewable future. "It is essential and it is possible," he added. "Even in the darkest days, I've seen hope power change," Guterres said, hailing the activists raising their voices for progress, as well as the humanitarian heroes overcoming enormous obstacles to support the most vulnerable people. The UN chief said he also sees hope in developing countries fighting for financial and climate justice. He underscored that the Pact for the Future, adopted in September, "is a new push" to build peace through disarmament and prevention, reform the global financial system, and stick to the values and principles enshrined by human rights, international law and the United Nations Charter. "There are no guarantees for what's ahead in 2025. But I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people," Guterres said. "Together, we can make 2025 a new beginning," the UN chief said. "Not as a world divided. But as nations united." Editor: WRX CARACAS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil on Monday criticized U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken of supporting "the worst opposition" in South America. The foreign minister made the remarks on social media after Blinken voiced U.S. support for two Venezuelan opposition figures. Gil said that Washington has failed many times to "fight against" Venezuela during the past four years and this time it will be "no different". He said that the Venezuelan people and government will overcome the obstacles made by the United States and build a sovereign and independent country. According to local media, Blinken pledged to "commit to a peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela" in a telephone with Venezuelan opposition figures on Monday. Editor: WRX Sales tax payments to the cities, Orange County, and one special district left the county and Bridge City with year-end increases from 2023, however, the city of Orange was down $2 million in sales tax revenues. Orange County collected $520,000 more during the calendar year, with Bridge City getting $160,000 more. The city of West Orange had $25,000 more, while Pinehurst collected $42,500 more for the year. Vidor received $30,000 more for the year. Orange County Emergency Services District 3, the only special district in the county with a sales tax, was almost stagnant. The Texas Comptroller's Office sent the entities their returns from October earlier in December. Orange County has a half-percent sales tax, or half a penny per dollar. In December, the county received $785,440, up from $521,428 for the same month in 2023. The county ended the year with $8.52 million, up from $8 million last year, an increase of 6.5 percent. Bridge City has a 1.5 percent sales tax, or 1.5 pennies for every dollar. The city in December got $188,605, up $166,276 from the same month last year. The city had a 7.33 percent increase for this year with $2.4 million, compared to $2.24 million last year. Orange also has a 1.5 percent sales tax and collected $7.36 million for the calendar year, compared to $9.33 million for 2023, which is a decrease of 21.12 percent. The drop could have been worse except for strong October sales. For the month, the city collected $545,390, compared to $440,000 for the same month last year. City Manager Mike Kuntz said the city's 2024-25 fiscal year budget was cut because of the decrease in sales taxes and a decrease in property taxes because of plant closings. Pinehurst had strong sales after seeing decreases in sales tax income during recent years. The city ended up with $708,000 for the year, compared to $665,500 last year, a 6.4 percent increase. In December, the city got $54,470, up from $52,445 for the same month last year. The city has a 1.5 percent sales tax. Vidor also has a 1.5 percent sales tax and collected $3.8 million for the year, up slightly from $3.77 million last year. The city's monthly payment was for $289,000, compared to $274,430 last year. West Orange got $1.7 million for the calendar yer, up from $1.45 million, an increase of 15.74 percent. The city received $168,300 in December, an increase from $110,227 last year. The city has a 1.5 percent sales tax. Emergency Services District 3 for the Little Cypress Fire and Rescue Department, has a 1.5 percent sales tax. The district got $31,442 in December for a the year's total of $337,160, down slightly from $339,735 last year. An introduction to Rabies (Hydrophobia) | Dr Asem Suresh Kumar Meitei Contd from previous issue For prevention and control of rabies in a country like India where dog is the most important vector, the following measures of restraint and control should be applied, when rabies has made its appearance. 1) Destruction of all rabid dogs, and the seizure of all biting dogs or of dogs suspected of being infected. These should be placed in quarantine under proper veterinary supervision for at least two weeks. If symptoms of rabies become manifest the affecting dog should be destroyed and its head or brain be submitted for laboratory examination. The seizure and destruction of all other wandering and ownerless dogs. Stray dog control and euthanasia of unvaccinated dogs with low levels of dependency on, or restriction by, people The compulsory vaccination of all other dogs with a reliable and potent vaccine. During the period immunization and as long as rabies prevails all dogs should be muzzled and confined to their respective homes. The registration of all dogs and the imposition of a dog tax in order to defray part of the expenses associated with the application of the control measures. Dogs known to have been exposed to rabies must be either destroyed or placed under veterinary observations in quarantine for a period of at last six months. The importation of dogs should not be permitted unless arrangements can be made for their confinement in quarantine under veterinary supervision for a period of not less than six months. Dogs under six months old are particularly susceptible and are not readily immunizable, and should, therefore be kept under strict supervision until the area is free from rabies. For farm animals, there are two useful control techniques: (1) Prevention of exposure: It can be achieved to a degree by destruction of wild fauna, muzzling, restraint of all cats and dogs and keeping farm animals indoors. (2) Vaccination: Especially Mass immunization of dogs by campaigns and by continuing vaccination of young dogs in particular, as well as vaccination of all cats and dogs is in general are the important one.. Where the risk of rabies is great consideration must be given to mass vaccination of wildlife by baits, because wildlife is the cracks in the defence armour. The use of combined vaccine containing rabies vaccine with a lot of other vaccines used in dogs would be an effective panic-free way of increasing the immune status of the pet population. No parenteral vaccine is licensed for wildlife; however, use in captive or free-ranging species has occurred on a case-by-case basis for prophylaxis in zoos or to augment control in the field, respectively. Protective immunity and efficacy from the commer- cially available vaccines for domestic species have not been definitively demonstrated in all wildlife species. Historically, the control of rabies in wildlife populations relied on population reduction to decrease the contact rate between susceptible animals; however, this proved difficult and often not publicly acceptable, ecologically sound, economically warranted, or programmatically effective. The writer is ex- Chief Technical Officer (Veterinary Science), ICAR for NEHR Welcome 2025, good riddance 2024 Road to recovery ? | Welcome 2025 and good riddance 2024. Much like how Manipur greeted 2024 and bade goodbye for good to 2023. Will it be anything different when 2026 comes knocking ? The remaining 12 months or 365 days will bring the answer, but it is the people on either side of the clash divide who will script how the coming days turn out to be. And this is where the responsibility of the people lies. So even as Manipur and her people step into the new year, will it be a question of looking forward to the coming days or will it be a case of dreading the days to come, a feeling which many school boys feel when the time for the declaration of the examination results draws close ! An observation made on the lighter side, but it capture the essence of the reality, if one looks back at Manipur since the evening of May 3, 2023 but the good news is, it is in the hands of the people to script what happens in the remaining 365 days. A hard, sincere look at the days since the evening of May 3, 2023 should have woken the people to the need of the people setting the agenda and not let it get hijacked by narrow political agenda and this should apply to either side of the divide. At the same time it is also extremely important for the people to be wary of the elements who may emerge and try to take centre stage, all in the name of doing something good for the people but in the process end up pursuing their own personal agenda. No examples need to be quoted here, for it should be obvious to everyone and if the people have not picked up any lesson in the days after the evening of May 3, 2023 then it would only add to the strength of the forces out to besmirch the understanding of Manipur and her people. Again the understanding of Manipur need not be elaborated here, for As idea of Manipur may differ vastly from Bs idea of Manipur, but this should not be taken to mean that one of the ideas is wrong and is against Manipur. It is with this knowledge and the willingness to accept the diversity in thoughts and ideas that one should step into 2025 and it is when such diverse ideas and thoughts can be vocalised freely that Manipur can hope to see an improved place and people. The present crisis will obviously be on top of the minds of everyone, but yet at the same time it is important for the people as a whole to sincerely look inwards, identify the warts within, work towards removing them and make the stepping into a new year all that more meaningful. Stepping into 2025 also means that Manipur would have taken one more step into a year that brings the people and the place nearer to 2027, the year Manipur is scheduled to go in for Assembly elections. And it is ahead of this that the Congress today appears to be making all the right noises. Remains to be seen whether the oldest political party in the country will be able to take ahead the excellent show it registered in the Lok Sabha elections held in the earlier part of 2024. The BJP must also be aware of the aggressive style the Congress has adopted and it will be interesting to see what strategies it comes up with to neutralise the blows the Congress has started delivering on the BJP led Government. One also wonders what strategy the champions for the ST for Meiteis call adopt with the coming of the new year. Will it be a case of giving time for the matter to cool off for the present given the ugly experience the STDCM faced some time back when it had to cancel a much publicised convention ? Or will it be a case of coming back with a stronger voice in 2025 ? Only time can tell, but it would do good for the ST for Meiteis champions such as STDCM, World Meetei Council, Meetei/Meitei Tribe Union and others to study how best to give a shot of fresh energy to the demand. Perhaps the miss call campaign may be reminded to the Government, so also the house to house campaign at the residences of all the valley MLAs some time back. The arithmetic is simple enough. 2025 means the next Assembly election is just a little over two years away and it would be a big thing if the ST for Meiteis demand can become the calling card of all political parties before the elections in 2027. Photo: https://minagro.gov.ua/news/vitalii-koval-livan-vazhlyvyi-torhovyi-partner-dlia-ukrainy?v=6773b15601a6a Ukraine exports products to Lebanon for more than $400 million, although the potential is $1 billion, promising supplies are cattle, meat and dairy products, said Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Vitaliy Koval following his visit to Lebanon and meeting with businesses. The Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food noted that Koval met with Lebanese businessmen - representatives of more than 12 companies involved in imports: millers, traders, entrepreneurs buying food products; meat and grain from Ukraine. According to the minister, Lebanese entrepreneurs import tens of thousands of tonnes of cattle. Recently, they began importing sheep to Lebanon. These areas of breeding may be promising for Ukrainian farmers due to the meat shortage. "Today we export products to Lebanon for more than $400 million, although the potential is $1 billion. That is why the task of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy is to increase the import of our products to Lebanon. I discussed with their businesses what needs to be done to increase trade turnover. Lebanese entrepreneurs noted some bureaucratic issues and logistical problems. Now I clearly understand what needs to be simplified in the procedures. Lebanon is an important trading partner for us, so we will work on developing our relations further," Koval emphasized. The minister drew attention to the fact that Lebanon has a very active Ukrainian community. During a meeting with its representatives, the Ukrainian delegation discussed logistical communication with Ukraine and increasing domestic products in Lebanese stores. Koval called on the diaspora to be ambassadors of Ukraine: to popularize Ukrainian products, noting their quality. City police commissioner Manoj Verma today warned of stern action on rogue drivers during the New Years Eve. He asked motorists to exercise caution on New Years Eve and on the night of 1st January, while the city celebrates New Year. Touching upon the recent cases of infiltrations by Bangladeshis and fake passports being unearthed in the city, Mr Verma said that the police are alert, the proof of which are the recent arrests of infiltrators. Advertisement Addressing a Press conference at city police headquarters, Lalbazar, on the police arrangements for the New Year celebrations, the top cop said that special emphasis had been given to curb reckless and drunk driving and the officers deployed in the areas like Park Street, had been told to come hard on alleged offenders of reckless driving. Advertisement Officers had been advised to deal sternly with reckless drivers, the top cop said. Dwelling on the police deployment for the smooth celebrations, the police commissioner said as many as 4,500 policemen would be deployed to maintain law and order both the days. The safety and security of the people, particularly senior citizens, women, and children, will be our main thrust and officers deployed in areas of Park Street would be ready to render any help if anyone is in distress, Mr Verma said. On women safety, the top cop said that officers of the crime branch would be there in full strength to thwart any kind of misbehaviour towards women and crimes like eve teasing. On the questions of infiltration of Bangladeshis in the city and state by preparing fake papers and the series of arrests, Mr Verma said, Yes some cases of Bangladeshis being nabbed in various parts of the state are though a cause for concern but police are alert. The recent arrests made are an example of the watch by the police. The top cop further said, We have held meetings with the officials of the regional passport office and the officials of the ministry of external affairs to discuss ways to plug the alleged loopholes. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Monday, hinted at money game influencing the movement by locals at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal, especially women, earlier this year against sexual harassment and illegal land grabbing the local and non-suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan. In her first public meeting on Monday at Sandeshkhali, a conglomeration of islands in that coastal pocket of the district, since the movement broke out there, the Chief Minister directly did not refer to the protest movements there but gave clear hints on what she was meaning to say. Advertisement There was a money game at Sandeshkhali. The people were misled. But lies do not persist for long. So I request all of you to remain united. Do not fall in the trap of mischievous people. I request women to go anywhere if you are called by anyone, the Chief Minister said. Advertisement Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also advised people to not pay any money to anyone to get the benefits under different social development schemes including rural housing schemes. You have full right to your own money. The benefits of social welfare schemes are provided free of cost. So please do not pay money to anyone to get the benefits and services, the Chief Minister said. The Chief Minister also announced a host of initiatives for Sandeshkhali. The first such move, according to her, where the number of beds at Sandeshkhali Rural Hospital will increase from 30 to 50. She also announced that an additional sub-division will be created in North 24 Parganas district to give better services to people. On Monday, just before the public meeting of the Chief Minister, Sujay Mondal, one of the lead faces of the Sandeshkhali movement earlier this year joined Trinamool Congress. The ruling party leadership claimed that Mondal, popular in the area as Sujay Master, realised his mistake and decided to join Trinamool Congress. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee today announced that Star Theatre will be renamed as Binodini Theatre. Wherever Nati Binodini is, she must be the happiest person. Bidoni Dasi (1863-1941) felt humiliated and offended when the great theatre personalities of that era refused to name the theatre as a B-theatre. Gurmukh Rai, a Punjabi businessman had agreed to give money provided the theatre is called the B-theatre. Binodini was very happy to get this news. But later the theatre personalities called it Star Theatre and not B-theatre as they thought that if a theatre hall is named after the daughter of a prostitute, people would not visit the theatre. Binodi carried this pain throughout her life. Advertisement Sri Ramakrishna had visited Star Theatre on Beadon Street to watch Chaitanyaleela directed by Girish Chandra Ghose, father of the Bengali stage on 21 September, 1884. He went into a trance watching the drama and blessed Binodini and said Mother Be Conscious (Ma tomar chaitanya hok). Advertisement Binodinis life changed after the incident. She left the theatre on 31 December, 1886 when she was just 24 years old. After this, she never visited the theatre hall. In 1906 when Girish Chandra invited Ma Sarada to watch Chaitanyaleela and approached Binodini to act as Nemai, she refused on the ground that Sri Ramakrishna would not come to watch it. Binodini wrote an autobiography titled Amar Katha whose foreward was written by Girish Chandra Ghose. A museum on Binodini has been set up at Star Theatre. Binodini used to stay at Star Lane, which is situated close to the Star Theatre. Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, who is infamously given the moniker Kalighater Kaku and one of the prime accused in the alleged recruitment scam in different state-run and state-aided schools across West Bengal was admitted to state-run SSKM Hospital cum Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research (IPGME&R) on Monday after he lost his consciousness at Presidency correctional home. Mr Bhadra fell ill before he was scheduled to be produced before the special court of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) probing the multi-crore rupee scam. He was rushed to the state-run SSKM Hospital where doctors attended to him in the critical care unit (CCU) at the hospital and advised several investigations, including CT scan. Advertisement Sources in the SSKM Hospital said that the patient showed symptoms of sodium-potassium imbalance and cardiac problems. Advertisement More than a year ago, Mr Bhadra had undergone a cardiac surgery at a premier private hospital along the EM Bypass. Today, his lawyer appealed to the EDs special court seeking its permission to shift the client to a private hospital from SSKM Hospital after his condition deteriorated. The court approved him to get him admitted to the private healthcare unit. He has not yet been shifted to the private healthcare unit till this evening so far. Following Mr Bhadras severe illness, framing of charge sheet by the ED in connection with the alleged scam involving recruitment of primary school teachers in the state has been stayed by the court. The central investigating agency was scheduled to frame the charge sheet in the court today. All accused like Partha Chatterjee, former education minister, his aide Arpita Mukherjee, Mr Bhadra and others in the teachers recruitment case are supposed to appear before the court when the investigating agency files the charge sheet. Mr Bhadra suddenly fell ill losing his consciousness this morning inside the Presidency correctional home. The investigating agency urged the court seeking arrangements of adequate security personnel for Mr Bhadra when he is shifted to the private hospital. During hearing in the court the ED feared that Mr Bhadra might flee on the way to the private hospital if adequate security arrangements are not given by the Kolkata Police for him. The court has approved the appeal of the ED and next hearing of the case would be held on 2 January. It has also asked to submit the medical report of Mr Bhadra in detail the same day. In a joint operation by the cops of the special task force of the West Bengal Police and the Assam Police, a most-wanted associate of Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), a Bangladesh-based fundamentalist group, was arrested from Murshidabad district of West Bengal. A senior official of the state police informed that the arrested individual has been identified as Sajidul Islam and he has been arrested in a surprise raid early on Monday morning by a joint team of the West Bengal Police and the Assam Police. Advertisement Islam has been arrested from a residence at Naoda in Murshidabad district. Advertisement The state police said that Islam is also the cousin brother of another most-wanted ABT activist Shad Radi, also known as Shab Sheikh, who was arrested recently from Kerala. Radi had two EPIC (Electors Photo Identity) cards issued in his name from two assembly constituencies in Murshidabad district one from Kandi and another from Hariharpara. The Assam Police had already started the process of taking Islam to the state on transit remand. Bengal Police sources said that Islam gave shelter to Radi, and also helped him get the EPIC card. There had been inputs from intelligence agencies, central and state, about ABT activists trying to be active in the two districts in West Bengal that have porous international borders with Bangladesh namely Murshidabad and Nadia. Inputs are also there that they are trying to brainwash youths in the bordering villages and induct them as sleeper cell members. Recently, the intelligence and security agencies have augmented the security and surveillance measures at the villages adjacent to the international border with Bangladesh, both land and coastal, in the wake of inputs that of late several outsiders have suddenly started residing in these border villages after taking rooms on rent there. The police have alerted the house owners in such villages to refrain from renting to outsiders without checking their credentials and also inform the local police stations about the individuals that they are letting out rooms. Four people sustained injuries in a fire caused by an LPG cylinder explosion at a heater factory in Jagdamba Colony, North East Delhi, the Fire Department said on Tuesday. According to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), a fire-related call was received from Jagdamba Colony, Shiv Vihar, regarding a blaze at the factory. In response, four fire tenders were dispatched to the site. Advertisement The fire broke out following the explosion of an LPG cylinder in the factory, injuring four workers. The injured individuals were immediately rushed to Safdarjung Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment, the DFS added. Advertisement The flames were extinguished, and debris was cleared. A search operation was also conducted to ensure no one was trapped. No additional injuries were reported after the operations conclusion, DFS confirmed. The police have launched an investigation into the incident. The factory was reportedly engaged in manufacturing heaters. The passing year was a transformative one for the Delhi police as it embraced the new criminal laws Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) replaced Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill (BSB) replaced Indian Evidence Act (IEA). The year 2014 also witnessed several incidents that shook people, including the killing of a businessman while he was on a morning walk in east Delhi, the firing at the GTB hospital where miscreants entered the hospital ward and shot a person due to mistaken identity. Advertisement Even the incident at an east Delhi child care centre which claimed lives of newborns was a result of criminal negligence, while the three civil services aspirants who died of drowning in a study centres basement in the month of July. Advertisement However, the city also witnessed a little decrease in cases of crime against women, owing to a comprehensive set of measures initiated by the Delhi Police through a combination of technology and conventional methods. According to police data from January 1 to November 30, the cases of rape in the city declined by 10.36 per cent, from 2,141 cases in 2023 to 1,919 this year. Molestation cases also witnessed a drop by 19.10 per cent, that is from 2,345 in 2023 to 1,897 this year. Additionally, eve-teasing cases decreased by 9.97 percent, from 381 in 2023 to 343 this year. Most notably, human trafficking cases plummeted by 42.37 per cent, from 59 in 2023 to just 34 this year. With the Delhi legislative assembly polls round the corner, the police have intensified efforts against illegal voters, and also deported illegally residing Bangladeshi immigrants. There has been a rise in cyber crime during the past year. Delhi police has been making people aware through various ways with regard to the ways cyber fraudsters approach gullible people. Meanwhile, this year also witnessed a series of hoax bomb threats that haunted the authorities, a problem which still persists. On May 3, such threats were received by around 200 schools and institutions in the capital city. Many city hospitals and airports were also targeted in a similar fashion. During this period, questions were also raised about the functioning of the Delhi police. In the crackdown against the menace of drugs, the police on October 2 made one of the biggest drug hauls with the seizure of over 560 kilograms of cocaine estimated to be worth around Rs 2,000 crore from a warehouse in Mehrauli, South Delhi. Additionally, on October 18, around 200 kg of cocaine that belonged to the same syndicate was also seized from an unused shop in Ramesh Nagar area of west Delhi. Following this, a comprehensive operation against the drug peddlers was initiated on instructions from LG that continued till the end of the year, resulting in the arrest of several peddlers and seizure of drugs. The Leader of the Opposition in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and former Mayor, Sardar Raja Iqbal Singh, on Tuesday criticised the New Year feast organised by the Mayor, calling it a wasteful expenditure and an act of insensitivity. He alleged that the civic body owes crores in unpaid salaries and arrears to its employees, yet it is spending lakhs on a lunch party, which reflects the Mayors insensitivity. He added that while the people of Delhi are suffering from increasing pollution and broken roads, AAP leaders seem more focused on hosting feasts. Advertisement Furthermore, Singh claimed that the MCD is grappling with a financial crisis, yet the Mayor continues to host lavish events, with the common people bearing the costs. Advertisement Highlighting the shortcomings of the civic body, Singh lamented that while garbage piles are scattered across the city, roads are in poor condition, and the recent rains have exposed the governments preparations, the Mayor is busy hosting a feast that reflects his audacity and indifference. Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said on Tuesday that he would file a defamation case against Chief Minister Atishi and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh for levelling bribery charges against his party. Addressing a press conference at the Constitution Club here, the Congress nominee for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections from the New Delhi constituency said, The day when Atishi said that we are taking money from BJP, former PM Manmohan Singh passed away. Hence, we could not do a press conference. After this press conference, I will file a criminal and civil defamation case against CM Atishi and Sanjay Singh. Advertisement I will file a Rs 10-crore defamation suit against them, of which I will donate Rs 5 crore for cleaning of Yamuna and Rs 5 crore for the fight against pollution in Delhi, he added. Advertisement Castigating the AAP leaders for leveling the charge of corruption against him and his mother Sheila Dikshit, he said, Arvind Kejriwal used to go around with 360-page evidence against the Sheila Dikshit government the evidence of which was shown to me by a delegation of the BJP. BJPs Vijay Kumar Malhotra told me that he (Kejriwal) showed them 360 newspaper cuttings as evidence. He is the first person in the world to produce newspaper cutting as evidence. Pointing out that the AAP has been accusing Congress of tampering with water and electricity meters to generate bills exceeding the consumption, he called it an irony that after coming to power, the party has not replaced a single meter. Similarly, Kejriwal targeted me for owning the cluster buses that are operating under DITMS. I wrote a letter to the LG asking him to initiate an inquiry into the matter. However, neither have I received any communication from the LG, nor the Delhi government was able to prove their allegations, Dikshit added. On the welfare schemes announced by the ruling party ahead of the assembly election, he said, They should answer a simple question: Why are they implementing all this now? Why didnt they do this earlier, they have been in power for the last 10 years. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved the document on the establishment of the Ukrainian part of the Ukrainian-Japanese joint committee for the implementation of the joint crediting mechanism, the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine reported. Earlier, Ukraine joined the Japan Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM). The goal of the program is to achieve a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by introducing leading global technologies for decarbonization of various sectors of the economy through investments by Japanese organizations. Ukraine and Japan signed the corresponding memorandum of cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement earlier this year. "This decision is important for achieving our climate goals through joint crediting instruments. Japan is a promising partner on this path. With the help of joint crediting, we will be able to attract Japanese technologies and innovative developments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This includes the implementation of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, as well as the green recovery of Ukraine according to the latest practices," Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk was quoted as saying in a message on the Telegram channel on Tuesday. It is noted that the next step will be the approval of the composition of this committee and its regulations. The committee is being created to coordinate efforts aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fight against climate change. For its part, Japan has already completed all the preparatory steps to launch cooperation. The JCM is reported to allow Japanese organizations to invest in decarbonization projects in partner countries. The reduced greenhouse gas emissions resulting from such projects are counted partly as Japan's contribution to achieving its own emission reduction targets, and partly in the country where the project was implemented. To date, the JCM mechanism operates in 29 countries around the world. According to Hrynchuk, for Ukraine this means access to Japanese technologies - some of the best in the world - and guaranteed investments for a green recovery. This will be tangible support in overcoming the consequences of Russian armed aggression. Anurag Kashyap is done with Bollywood! The filmmaker has never shied away from voicing his opinions freely. Recently, the Gangs of Wasseypur maker expressed his disgust and disappointment with the Hindi film industry. He lashed out at the escalating salaries and shift in focus from filmmaking to money-making. Kashyap also criticised new-age actors and agencies for favouring being a star over a better actor. Stating that Bollywood has sucked out the joy of filmmaking, the filmmaker is moving to the South. In his interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Anurag Kashyap got real about his views. Now it is difficult for me to go out and experiment as it comes at a cost, which makes my producers think about profit and margins. Right from the beginning, before the film starts, it becomes about how to sell it. So, the joy of filmmaking is sucked out. Thats why I want to move out of Mumbai next year. I am going to the South. I want to go where there is stimulation. Otherwise, I will die as an old man. I am so disappointed and disgusted by my own industry. I am disgusted by the mindset. Advertisement Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap10) Kashyap also highlighted that Bollywood relies on remakes after a film becomes successful. Citing the example of Manjumel Boys, he stated that Bollywood would never make a film like that. However, if the title becomes successful, they would like to remake it in Hindi. The mindset is to remake whats already worked. They wont try anything new. Moving ahead, the filmmaker also criticised agencies for pushing budding talent into going after stardom rather than the craft. The first-generation actors and the really entitled ones are very painful to deal with. Nobody wants to actthey all want to be stars. The agency wont make anybody a star, but the moment someone becomes a star, the agency makes money off them. The onus of finding talent is on youyou have to take a risk and firefight with 50 people. And when the film is made, the agency grabs them and turns them into a star. They will brainwash them and tell them what they need to do to become a star. They wont send them to workshops but to the gymits all glam-glam because they have to be massive stars. Also Read: Kriti Sanon calls out the pretence and PR of contemporary award functions He revealed that an actor disappeared following an agencys advice. However, he returned later for career counselling. This is what the agency doesthey just make money off you. They arent invested in building new careers. Praising Southern cinema, he said, My actors, whom I thought of as friends, ghost you because they want to be a certain way. That happens mostly here; it doesnt happen in Malayalam cinema. Anurag Kashyap recently made his Malayalam debut alongside rapper Hanumankind in Rifle Club. Ahead of the highly anticipated release of his directorial debut, Fateh, actor Sonu Sood made a heartfelt visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. The actor shared a video of his spiritual journey on social media, offering prayers at the sacred shrine and interacting warmly with his fans. Advertisement In his post, he expressed, Waheguru ji da Khalsa, Waheguru ji di Fateh. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sutej Singh Pannu (@sutejpannu) Fateh, ready to hit theaters on January 10, 2025, marks Soods first foray into direction. The film, an action-packed thriller, delves into the world of cybercrime, drawing inspiration from real-life events during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sood, who is both the director and lead actor, shared his excitement about the project, describing it as a journey fueled by passion and purpose. He emphasized that Fateh sheds light on the hidden battles fought in the digital realm, and he hopes it will captivate audiences with its intense action sequences and gripping storyline. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonu Sood (@sonu_sood) The actor also expressed his anticipation for the films teaser, calling it a sneak peek into the world they have painstakingly created. Its a glimpse into a world weve poured our hearts into, and I cant wait for viewers to experience the adrenaline, emotions, and sheer power of Fateh, Sood said. He further described the film as a tribute to every hero who dares to fight against overwhelming odds. The star-studded cast of Fateh includes Jacqueline Fernandez, Vijay Raaz, and Naseeruddin Shah, with the films production promising high-octane action and an engaging narrative. To elevate its global appeal, Hollywood professionals, including directors of photography, research teams, and action choreographers, have been enlisted. Produced by Shakti Sagar Productions and Zee Studios, Fateh aims to highlight the critical issue of cybercrime and its far-reaching impact on society. Prior to his visit to the Golden Temple, Sonu Sood had also visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, where he prayed for the success of the film. Reflecting on his spiritual journey, he shared, When I made the film Fateh, it started with the darshan of Baba Mahakal, and now, as we begin our promotions, I pray that with his blessings, our film becomes successful. After an eight-year legal battle, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have officially settled their divorce, marking the end of a highly publicized and contentious separation. The resolution, confirmed by Jolies legal team on December 30, 2024, closes a significant chapter in their lives and in Hollywood history. Advertisement The couple, once celebrated as one of the industrys most iconic pairs, had been together for 12 years and married for two before their relationship came to an end. Advertisement Jolie filed for divorce in September 2016, citing irreconcilable differences. The filing came shortly after an incident aboard a private plane, during which Angelina Jolie alleged that Brad Pitt had behaved abusively toward their six children. While authorities investigated the claims, no charges were filed, and Jolie ultimately decided not to press further legal action. The separation marked the beginning of a long and complex legal battle that would see the couple face off over custody arrangements and shared assets. Jolies attorney, James Simon, reflected on the years-long process, stating that Jolie had left all shared properties with Pitt and had since focused on finding peace and healing for her family. He described the actress as exhausted but relieved that this particular chapter was finally over. A source close to Jolie echoed these sentiments, noting that she has worked hard to move forward and refrains from speaking negatively about Pitt, either publicly or privately. According to the source, Jolie has been striving to find light after what has been a particularly dark time. The divorce proceedings were anything but smooth. Early in the process, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt agreed to handle the matter privately, utilizing a private judge and seeking to seal court records to protect their childrens privacy. Despite these efforts, disputes over custody and assets repeatedly brought the case into the public eye. Custody battles over their childrenMaddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knoxwere particularly contentious, with accusations filed in court and widely reported in the media. In 2017, the couple reached an agreement to seal sensitive records related to their children, and by 2019, they had legally bifurcated their divorce, allowing them to be declared single while continuing to work through unresolved issues. However, the path to closure remained fraught with challenges, as disagreements over their shared French estate and winery, Chateau Miraval, added further complications. Chateau Miraval, a symbol of the couples shared life and investments, became a focal point of their legal disputes. In 2022, Pitt filed a lawsuit against Jolie after she sold her stake in the estate to a third party. Jolie countersued, alleging that Pitt had attempted to take full control of the property following their separation. Her business entity, Nouvel, argued that Pitt had been working behind the scenes to seize control of the estate, which held significant financial and emotional value. Pitts legal team denied the allegations, accusing Jolie of misrepresenting the facts. The dispute escalated in 2024 when a judge ruled that Pitt must disclose documents, including emails and texts, that could support Jolies claims of abuse. Pitts legal team criticized the request, describing it as a sensationalist attempt to dig up irrelevant information, but the ruling marked a significant victory for Jolie. While the divorce settlement officially concludes their marriage, the unresolved disputes over Chateau Miraval indicate that their legal battles are not entirely over. The Central Government on Monday declared the Wayanad landslide a disaster of severe nature, five months after the calamity claimed 254 lives and left 128 people missing. The Ministry of Home Affairs conveyed this decision to Tinku Biswal, Principal Secretary of Revenue and Disaster Management, Kerala Government, based on an assessment by the Central Cabinet Committee. Advertisement While the declaration fulfills Keralas primary demand, there has been no response to the states request for debt waivers or additional funds for relief operations. Advertisement The letter mentions that the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) has already received financial assistance for immediate relief efforts. The Kerala Government had been urging the Centre to declare the landslide a disaster of severe nature due to its devastating impact. The state government estimates the total loss from the disaster at Rs 1,202 crore and has requested Rs 2,262 crore for a comprehensive rehabilitation package. The Union Home Ministrys letter emphasized that financial assistance for disasters of a severe nature, including landslides, can be met through the SDRF already allocated to the state. However, Kerala remains hopeful that a special reconstruction package will be announced following the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA). Reacting to the Centres declaration, Kerala Revenue Minister K M Rajan expressed dissatisfaction with the delay. He said: We cannot understand why it took more than five months for the Centre to make this announcement. A declaration within two months of the calamity would have been more helpful. Senior Congress leader KC Venugopal on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the BJP after Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane reportedly compared Kerala to mini Pakistan, saying it shows that the saffron party has deep-rooted animosity for the people of the Southern state. He also demanded that Rane should be immediately sacked. Reacting to Ranes remarks on Kerala, Venugopal, who is also the Congress general secretary in-charge of Organisation, said, From time to time, the BJP deploys its hate mongers to spew venom against Kerala. Using terms like mini Pakistan shows they have deep-rooted animosity for the people of Kerala. Advertisement He said for the entire world, Kerala is a model state that has continuously topped the Human Development indices, especially on education, healthcare and overall standard of living. Advertisement Pointing out that since millennia, Kerala has been a beacon of communal harmony and brotherhood among all religions and sects, the senior Congress leader asserted that to use abusive language for the land of Sree Narayana Guru, Chattambi Swamikal and Mahatma Ayyankali, who advocated for egalitarianism, inclusivity and social justice, shows the BJPs disregard for its own fellow citizens. Attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Venugopal said, If PM Modi has any shame about Mr Ranes statements, he should sack him immediately. The people of Kerala have rejected, and will never accept the BJP for this very reason they do not understand the beauty of its harmonious living. According to a news agency, addressing a rally in Pune Rane said, Kerala is mini Pakistan that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister (Priyanka Gandhi Vadra) are elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. It may be mentioned that Vadra won the Wayanad parliamentary by-election which was necessitated following the resignation of Rahul Gandhi as MP from there. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge Tuesday slammed the BJP and RSS over recent remarks of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Babasaheb Ambedkar and alleged atrocities against the Dalits and tribals in the saffron party ruled states including UP, saying his party will continue to fight the anti-Constitutional thinking of the BJP-RSS. Kharge in a post on X wrote, Union Home Minister Amit Shah insults Babasaheb Ambedkar in Parliament. The same anti-marginalised mentality is being repeated in the BJP-ruled states. Advertisement Replying during a debate in the Rajya Sabha marking the 75th anniversary of the Constitutions adoption, Shah in an attack on the Congress on 17th December said, It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken Gods name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven. Advertisement Referring to recent incidents of alleged atrocities against the Dalits and tribals in the BJP-ruled states, he said, In Madhya Pradeshs Dewas, a Dalit youth was killed in police custody. In Odishas Balasore, tribal women were tied to a tree and beaten upIn UPs Muzaffarnagar, three Dalit families were forced to migrate because of caste-based attacks on them and the police remained silent. It is well known that atrocities are being committed against Dalits, tribals,backward and minority communities under the anti-Constitutional rule of the Modi government. Those who are poor and deprived are suffering the brunt of Manuwaad. One crime is committed every hour against Dalit-tribal women and children. According to the NCRB, this figure has doubled since 2014, Kharge said. The Congress chief vowed that his party will not allow the constitutional rights of 140 crore Indians to be violated. We will continue to fight the anti-constitutional thinking of the BJP-RSS, Kharge added. The alleged killer of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh (BJP) by the name Valmik Karad surrendered at a Pune police station on Tuesday after which he was whisked off by the police to be produced before a magistrate in Beed district. Commenting on the development in Mumbai on Tuesday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, I do not want to get into politics of this matter. I have already said that action will be taken according to the evidence that comes to light. For me, it is important that the people responsible for the murder of the late Santosh Deshmukh get punished. Advertisement Some people only care about politics. Their politics are profitable for them. I do not want to get into any politics. They should continue doing their politics. I dont think their politics will benefit them much. Therefore, I dont want to make any political statement. I dont want to support it and I dont want to oppose it either. The opposition should continue to do politics. However, our position is clear that Santosh Deshmukh should get justice and he will get it, he said. Advertisement However, hours after Valmik Karad surrendered before the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Pune on Tuesday, the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra lashed out at the Mahayuti government, accusing it of stage managing the surrender drama and demanded food and civil supplies minister Dhananjay Mundes resignation. The role of the police in this case is under a cloud. Last night, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Dhananjay Munde held a long meeting at Sahyadri Guest House and today Valmik Karad surrendered. What an amazing coincidence! This drama has been stage managed and the people of Maharashtra have doubts about this entire episode, said Thackeray-led Shiv Sena leader Bhaskar Jadhav. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP MLA from Beed district Sandeep Kshirsagar, met Fadnavis and said, I have urged the chief minister to file a case under Section 302 for conspiracy to murder Santosh Deshmukh. As of now, only an extortion case has been filed against Valmik Karad in this matter. I have also urged the chief minister to ask Dhananjay Munde to resign as minister till the investigation is completed. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar-led NCP MLA said in Thane on Tuesday that Since the last few days I had said that Valmik Karad was going to surrender. After 22 days, Valmik Karad appears and before surrendering, he releases a video talking only about extortion. He does not talk about the murder. The officers who are involved in the current case have helped him. Awhad also cited messages allegedly found in the mobile phone recovered from Valmik Karad. A case of Section 302 for murder will not be registered against Valmik Karad at all, because his godfather is in power. I have exposed the chats to show to what extent the links go, Awhad said. Santosh Deshmukh belonged to the BJP, not to our party, but we are fighting for the survival of humanity. While giving a government lawyer to Santosh Deshmukhs family, it is necessary to take his family into confidence. I request Fadnavis to investigate the murders that took place in the last two to three years and also call up their families. Only then it will be known who grabbed whose land and who killed whom, Awhad said. Echoing Sharad Pawar-led NCP MLA Sandeep Kshirsagars demand, Jitendra Awhad also appealed to the people of Maharashtra not to remain silent until a case under Section 302 for murder is registered against Valmik Karad. Meanwhile, Fadnavis continued to remain mum about documentary evidence linking his food and civil supplies minister Dhananjay Munde of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP to Valmik Karad, the alleged killer of Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, who is from the BJP. It may be recalled that anti-corruption activist Anjali Damania had recently uploaded documents on her X handle, which linked food and civil supplies minister Dhananjay Munde, to the alleged killer Valmik Karad. Earlier on Saturday, CM Fadnavis had ordered the Additional Director General of CID Maharashtra to immediately cancel the gun licenses of those accused in the village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh murder case as well as confiscate their properties. He had also ordered the Beed Superintendent of Police to immediately conduct a review of all gun licenses issued in Beed so far. The CMs action was seen as a reaction to a series of tweets with photographs and videos uploaded by anti-corruption activist Anjali Damania on her X handle featuring the accused as well as associates of those accused in the Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh murder case. Fadnavis had ordered cancellation of the licenses of all those who feature on the photographs carrying guns, uploaded by anti-corruption activist Anjali Damania, if the guns are indeed real, but he failed to react to the documents uploaded by Damania to her X handle linking Dhananjay Munde to the alleged killer Valmik Karad. Moreover, on Monday, in Beed, murdered Massajog village sarpanch Santosh Deshmukhs brother Dhananjay Deshmukh had filed writ petition in the Aurangabad bench of the Bombay High Court demanding that political favour and political connections given to criminal activities must be investigated. His petition also alleged that food and civil supplies minister Dhananjay Munde is responsible for this and he should be removed from the ministerial post immediately in order to ensure that political pressure is not exerted on the investigation into the kidnapping and murder case, given the close relationship between Dhananjay Munde and Valmik Karad. The petition has demanded that the investigation into this matter must be impartial. The government on Tuesday confirmed that it is aware of the death sentence awarded to Nimisha Priya, an Indian nurse, in Yemen and said it is extending all possible assistance in the matter. In response to media queries, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Ms. Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter. Nimisha Priya, who has been sentenced to death in Yemen, is a trained nurse and has worked in private hospitals in Yemen for a few years. She was awarded a life sentence in 2020 after being convicted of killing one Talal Abdo Mahdi, who she accused of fraud and abuse, in 2017. Advertisement Her husband and minor daughter returned to India in 2014 because of financial reasons and in the same year, Yemen was gripped by a civil war, and they could not go back as the country stopped issuing new visas. Later in 2015, Nimisha joined hands with Mahdi to set up her clinic in Yemens capital city Sana. She sought Mahdis support because, under Yemens law, only citizens are allowed to set up clinics and business firms. In 2015, Mahdi accompanied Nimisha to Kerala when she came for a month-long holiday. During the visit, he stole a wedding photograph of Nimisha, which he later manipulated to claim that he was married to her. Advertisement A plea moved by the mother of Nimisha had stated, After a while, Nimishas clinic began, Mahdi manipulated the ownership documents of the clinic. He also began to take money out of her monthly earnings after telling everyone that Nimisha was his wife Nimisha had alleged that Mahdi had been harassing her and her family for years. Mahdi also seized her passport. This was done to ensure that she would not leave Yemen. He tortured her under the influence of drugs. He threatened her at gunpoint several times. He took all the money from the clinic and her ornaments. The plea further alleged that unable to cope with the torture, Nimisha complained to the police in Sana but instead of taking action against Mahdi, the police arrested her and put her in jail for six days. It was further alleged that on her return from jail, the severity of the torture increased manifold. In July 2017, Nimisha took the help of a warden of a jail located near her clinic. The warden suggested that she should try to sedate him, and then convince him to give her passport. However, sedation did not affect Mahdi, who was a substance abuser. She tried sedating him again, using a stronger sedative in order to retrieve her passport but he died within a few minutes due to a drug overdose. In a major relief to BRS working president KT Rama Rao, the Telangana High Court extended its interim orders and protected him from arrest in connection with the Formula E race case until the pronouncement of the verdict. Rao had approached the court with a petition to quash the FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau under the Prevention of Corruption Act, against him. The court reserved its order on the criminal petition filed by the former minister. Advocate General A Sudarshan Reddy raised questions on the legality of the agreement signed with the organizers of the Formula E race during the BRS regime. He pointed out that Rs 55 crore was disbursed without any authorization from the Finance Ministry, out of which Rs 46 crore was paid in foreign currency, violating RBI rules. The Model Code of Conduct was in effect at that time due to elections in the state and Rao had signed the payment note as the minister of municipal administration and urban development (MAUD). He said the Governor had sanctioned proceedings against KTR on 17 December. Advertisement However, KTRs counsel Siddarth Dave counter argued that the case was politically motivated and devoid of merit. He argued that the BRS leader had not personally benefited from the deal and there was no evidence of corruption in the case. He also said the FIR was registered hastily and no preliminary inquiry had been conducted. He sought the quashing of the FIR against Rao. Advertisement After both parties concluded their arguments, the court reserved its judgment. However, it extended the protection given to Rao, directing the ACB not to arrest him till the verdict was pronounced. The BRS leader has also been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to appear before it on 7 January in connection with the same Formula E race case. The ED had sought the details of the FIR from the ACB. The central agency filed an enforcement case information report last week in the case under various sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following the ACBs FIR against KTR. Rao yesterday said that unlike in other cases, ED was taking a more aggressive approach in this matter. The year 2024 has been one of incredible progress for India in both technology and medicine. From AI changing industries to major breakthroughs in nuclear energy, space exploration and quantum computing, it has indeed been a year to remember. The story, however, goes back much further. India has been breaking barriers, from rolling out 5G networks to developing four Made-in-India COVID vaccines, not just for itself, but for the world. Advertisement Today, the world is taking notice of Indias spirit of innovation. With the third largest start-up ecosystem and a record 64,480 patent applications filed in 2023, India has firmly secured its spot as the sixth largest globally in patent filings. Advertisement A document released by the government highlights some of the significant breakthroughs and innovative projects that have been undertaken across various fields in 2024. Powered by initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) and Bulk Drug Parks, Indias pharmaceutical exports soared from over $15 billion to about $28 billion over the past decade ending FY24. Similarly, Biotechnology has also expanded 13-fold, from $10 billion in 2014 to $130 billion in 2024, targeting $300 billion by 2030. Thus, 2024 further cemented Indias global healthcare leadership. India developed its first indigenous antibiotic, Nafithromycin, a breakthrough against drug-resistant pneumonia with 10 times the efficacy with a three day treatment regimen. The country launched NexCAR19, its first home-grown CAR-T cell therapy for cancer. Globally, India joined the Biopharmaceutical Alliance alongside South Korea, the US, Japan, and the EU to tackle drug supply shortages. India resumed local Production of Penicillin G after 30 years, a milestone for making the pharmaceutical sector self-reliant. Transformative reforms like Liberalised FDI, Positive Indigenisation Lists, and opening Defence R&D to industry and start-ups over the past decade propelled indigenous production to record Rs 1.27 lakh crore and exports 30-fold in 2024. As the year ends, India solidifies its position as a global defence leader, achieving historic milestones in strategic innovation. Marking a significant advancement, DRDO successfully flight-tested the Agni-5 missile with MIRV technology under Mission Divyastra, placing India in an elite group of nations with advanced re-entry systems. The nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile was tested from INS Arihant, bolstering Indias underwater nuclear deterrence. With a 3,500 km strike range, it places India under a select group of nations. Showcasing the nations ability to defend against 5,000 km-class ballistic threats, DRDO conducted successful trials of the Phase-2 Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) System. Indias nuclear power generation capacity doubled from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. The government aims to triple this capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, showcasing a strong commitment to expanding nuclear energy. Currently, India is one of the leading countries with well-advanced thorium utilisation technologies, developed indigenously. Indias bio economy has experienced remarkable growth, skyrocketing from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024. With a bold vision to grow Indias space economy to $44 billion by 2033, including $11 billion in exports, the government is determined to set new benchmarks in space exploration. By driving innovation, spearheading ambitious missions, and building world-class infrastructure, India is rapidly emerging as a dominant force on the global space frontier. Over the past decade, India has been leveraging technology in various innovative ways to expedite infrastructure projects, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing delays. In 2024, India added significant strides in transforming its transport infrastructure, embracing futuristic technologies. A major milestone was the completion of Indias first Hyperloop test track at IIT Madras, advancing the nations vision for high-speed rail travel. India took a major step in modernising road infrastructure by completing pilot studies for the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which will enable a distance-based electronic tolling system. The National Quantum Mission is propelling India toward global leadership in quantum technology, while BharatGen showcases the nations commitment to developing AI tailored for India. In 2024, India made significant strides reinforcing its position in secure digital technologies and AI innovation. 2024, fruitful year of China-Zambia ties Xinhua) 15:27, December 31, 2024 Guests attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Zambia-China Friendship Road in Lusaka, Zambia, May 27, 2024. (Photo by Wang Chunyan/Xinhua) President Hichilema said the relationship between China and Zambia has reached its best in history and Zambia will never forget the valuable support from the Chinese government and people over the past 60 years. LUSAKA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The year 2024 has been fruitful for the China-Zambia cooperation as the two countries celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties. Spurred by the elevation of the cooperation to a Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership following a state visit to China by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in September 2023, the two countries designated 2024 as the Year of Business Cooperation, as well as the Year of Culture and Tourism. Han Jing, the Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, said during a ceremony to commemorate 60 years of ties on Oct. 29 that the commemoration of the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations could not have taken place at a better time and was aiming to carry forward the traditional friendship between the two countries from generation to generation. For his part, President Hichilema said the relationship between the two countries has reached its best in history and Zambia will never forget the valuable support from the Chinese government and people over the past 60 years. Indeed, 2024 has been a momentous year in the bilateral relations between the two countries. To celebrate the anniversary, a number of activities have been held and several cooperation agreements inked to enhance the ties. Among the events was the Zambia-China High-Quality Development Forum and Economic Exhibition in May. The exhibition attracted more than 200 enterprises from China and Zambia. During the event, dozens of documents on practical cooperation worth 1.03 billion U.S. dollars were signed between Chinese and Zambian enterprises. Other activities included the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of the first-ever vaccine manufacturing plant in Zambia. The two countries also launched the "Harmony in Diversity: Zambia-China Bilateral Relationship Art Exhibition" as part of the commemoration of 60 years of bilateral ties. A hallmark of the year was the attendance of the Zambian president at this year's Forum on China Africa summit in China, during which Zambia signed a number of deals in various sectors. One of the documents aims to assist Zambia in diversifying its energy mix by investing in alternative power generation projects, including solar energy. According to the Chinese Ambassador, these projects are expected to add an additional 720 megawatts of electricity to Zambia's grid once completed. Another key agreement was to revitalize the Tanzania-Zambia Railway to turn it into a viable regional connectivity project. China also donated about 500,000 dollars to help Zambia tackle an outbreak of cholera. Additionally, on Aug. 30, a ceremony was held to exchange letters regarding Emergency Humanitarian Food Assistance and China-Aid Projects. This involved China's provision of emergency humanitarian food aid to Zambia and assistance in the construction of mealie meal milling plants. The relationship between China and Zambia in the past 60 years has seen tremendous growth for the mutual benefit of the two countries. As the Zambian president said in the commemoration ceremony, the two countries were celebrating 60 years of partnership with renewed vigor and more focus on what the partnership means to the two governments. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean has ordered preparing a legal framework for nationalizing the assets of Moldovagaz, an energy company a controlling stake in which belongs to Russia's PJSC Gazprom. Speaking at a government meeting on Monday, Recean described Gazprom's decision to halt gas supply to the Transdniestrian region starting January 1, 2025 as outrageous. "This decision has been made in breach of a valid contract between Moldovagaz and Gazprom on the pretext of a historical debt of over $700 million. An international audit has shown that there's no debt whatsoever. Perhaps those funds were spent on journeys and yachts, but it's unacceptable to place this debt onto Moldovan citizens' shoulders. We'll handle this situation, as we've handled Russia's energy blackmail before," Recean said. In this context, Recean instructed Justice Minister Veronica Mihailov-Moraru to draw up amendments to national laws to provide a legal basis for nationalization of businesses. "Ms. Mihailov-Moraru, I am asking you to prepare the necessary legislative amendments so that nationalization could be accomplished. We should act in strategic sectors. By the way, those assets [Moldovagaz] were also forcibly taken away from us in the past, and we should return them to the state's ownership," he said. As reported, Gazprom said it would halt gas supplies to Moldovagaz starting January 1, 2025 "because of the Moldovan side's refusal to settle its debt for gas supplies." "Moldovagaz regularly fails to fulfill its payment obligations under the current contract, which is a material breach of its terms and conditions," Gazprom said. Since December 4, 2022, all gas in the amount of around 5.7 million cubic meters a day that Gazprom supplies under a contract with Moldovagaz has been delivered to the Transdniestrian region, which does not pay for this gas. As a result, its debt to Gazprom has topped $10 billion. At the same time, as a condition for continuing gas supply to the left bank of the Dniester river, Gazprom has demanded that Moldovagaz repay its historical debt, which Gazprom estimates at $709 million. The Moldovan government does not recognize this debt, citing the findings of an international audit conducted in 2023, according to which the debt just slightly exceeds $8 million. If Transdniestria does not receive enough gas, the Cuciurgan Power Plant, known also as Moldovan GRES located in Transdniestria, will be unable to generate electricity for the right bank of the Dniester river, thus triggering a severe energy crisis in the whole of Moldova. Moldova currently buys around 80% of the necessary amount of electricity from Transdniestria at $66 per MW. If gas deliveries are halted, Moldova would have to buy electricity from Romania at nearly twice the price. Until lately, Russia has supplied gas to Transdniestria via Ukraine under a contract that expires at the end of 2024. Kiev has warned categorically that it will not extend the gas transport contract. Some reports suggested that Russian gas might be supplied to Moldova via the TurkStream gas pipeline, Bulgaria, and Romania; however, Gazprom has not booked the required capacity for that. Moldovagaz, the biggest energy company in Moldova, was set up in 1999. Gazprom owns 50% plus one share, the Moldovan government has 35.33%, the unrecognized Transdniestrian republic's property management committee 13.44%, and legal entities and individuals 1.23%. The Transdniestrian region's shares are under Gazprom's trusteeship. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday issued a heartfelt apology to the people of the state for the ethnic violence and unrest that erupted in May 2023, leading to loss of lives, widespread displacement, and prolonged tension. Speaking at a public event, Singh called the events of the past year deeply unfortunate and expressed profound regret over the suffering endured by the people. Advertisement I feel regret, and I want to say sorry to the people of Manipur for what has been happening. Many people lost their lives and were rendered homeless. I really feel regret and apologize to all victims, the Chief Minister said. Advertisement His remarks were accompanied by an earnest call for forgiveness and reconciliation, urging communities to heal and move forward. Manipur has faced one of its most challenging years in recent history, with ethnic clashes breaking out between the Meitei and Kuki communities over longstanding grievances related to land rights, Scheduled Tribe status, and governance. The violence, which began in May 2023, left over 200 dead, thousands injured, and tens of thousands displaced. Entire villages were burned, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) were forced into relief camps, enduring severe hardship. The unrest also highlighted deeper issues, including the states fragile social fabric and challenges in governance. Despite a strong security presence, sporadic violence continued for months, delaying the restoration of peace. In his appeal, the Chief Minister urged all communities to forgive and forget past grievances, emphasizing unity among the states diverse tribal and ethnic groups. Whatever happened, happened. Lets forgive and forget past mistakes and start a new life filled with peace and prosperity, with Manipur living harmoniously with all its recognized 34-35 tribes, Singh stated. Pratap Chandra Sarangi, the BJP MP from Odishas Balasore, has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of behaving more like a bouncer than a Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a position once held by eminent leaders such as former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. BJP MP Sarangi, who sustained injuries during a scuffle in Parliament on December 19 and was hospitalised, shared his health update with reporters on Monday. Advertisement I am comparatively better now and was discharged from the hospital on December 28. I still need to be cautious as the stitch on my head has not fully healed, he said. Advertisement Recalling the incident, BJP MP Sarangi said, It happened when we (BJP MPs) were standing near an entry gate, peacefully protesting against the insult of B.R. Ambedkar, holding placards. Suddenly, Rahul Gandhi came along with some of his party colleagues and started pushing people to move ahead. He was behaving like a bouncer, not like the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a post once occupied by great personalities like Vajpayee ji, alleged Sarangi. Pratap Sarangi claimed there was enough space near the gate for Rahul Gandhi to pass without causing disruption. Rahul Gandhi pushed MP Mukesh Rajput, who was standing in front of him. Rajput ji fell on me, and my head likely hit the corner of a stone-like object, causing the injury, said Sarangi. When asked if Rahul Gandhi had expressed concern after the incident, Sarangi responded, Yes, he came near me after someone informed him of what had happened. However, he quickly left without showing any genuine concern. I recovered due to the blessings of Lord Jagannath. Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned following protests by the Opposition demanding an apology from Amit Shah over his remarks on B.R. Ambedkar. Dressed in blue, a colour symbolising BR Ambedkar, INDIA bloc MPs, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, demonstrated on the Parliament premises, calling for Amit Shahs resignation over his comments regarding the Constitutions chief architect. In a social media post on X marking the 20th anniversary of Quad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the four-nation grouping now stands as a vital force for stability, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Two decades ago, the idea of Quad began with a shared response to the Indian Ocean tsunami, he noted. He also shared a joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of the four Quad nations (India, Australia, Japan and the United States) on the occasion of the groupings 20th anniversary, reaffirming their commitment to addressing the regions needs together. Advertisement The joint statement said that 20 years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Australia, India, Japan, and the US came together in service to the people of the region for the first time as the grouping now known as the Quad. Advertisement The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries. Together our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe. We honour the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost. the statement said. They said that their foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region. In 2024, our four countries collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific, and we continue to build on those efforts to identify new ways to respond rapidly to humanitarian crises and disasters. The statement further noted that what began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of the region. Quad countries now work together and with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address complex challenges, from fighting climate change, cancer, and pandemics, to bolstering quality infrastructure, maritime domain awareness, STEM education, counter-terrorism efforts, critical and emerging technologies, and cyber security. Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quads positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, it added. The Quad nations said that as four partners, they share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions. We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEANs centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the regions premier organisation, they added. Spurious drugs worth Rs 6.60 crore were seized by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), East Zone, and the Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal from a wholesale premises in Kolkata. In a communique, the Union Health Ministry on Tuesday said, In a decisive action against the illicit trade of spurious drugs, a joint investigation was conducted by the CDSCO, East Zone, and the Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal, at a wholesale premises in Kolkata. The raid, carried out at M/s Care and Cure For You resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other drugs suspected to be spurious. Advertisement The drugs, labelled as being manufactured in various countries including Ireland, Turkey, the USA, and Bangladesh, were found without any supporting documents to prove their legitimate importation into India. In the absence of documentation, these drugs are deemed to be spurious, it said. Advertisement The Health Ministry said the investigating team also discovered several empty packing materials, further raising concerns over the authenticity of the seized products. The total market value of the drugs seized is estimated at approximately Rs 6.60 Crore. To ensure proper investigation, samples of the drugs have been sent for quality testing. The remaining seized quantity is being kept in safe custody by the CDSCO, it said. Informing that the investigation has led to the arrest of the accused, a woman identified as the proprietor of the wholesale firm, who was taken into custody by the Drugs Inspector of CDSCO, East Zone, the Health Ministry said the Court has granted judicial custody of the accused for 14 days and permitted further interrogation. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing, it said. The Health Ministry said it remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. The seizure and ongoing investigation underscore the governments zero-tolerance policy towards the circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs in the market. The CDSCO and state authorities will continue to work in close coordination to combat the threat posed by spurious drugs and to safeguard the interests of consumers, it added. During November, the Central Drugs Laboratories identified 41 drug samples to be not of standard quality (NSQ), while State Drugs Testing Laboratories found 70 drugs samples under the same category. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lamented that some people are now making an organised attempt to establish sage-social reformer Sree Narayana Guru as the advocate and practitioner of Sanatana Dharma. Contending that Sree Narayana Guru was not a spokesperson or practitioner of Sanatana Dharma at the inauguration of the 92nd Sivagiri pilgrimage at Varkala on Tuesday, Vijayan cautioned against the efforts to portray him, who advocated one caste, one religion and one God for people as a proponent of Sanatana Dharma. Advertisement He was a sage who dismantled Sanatana Dharma and proclaimed a new-age dharma suited to modern times, he added. During this Sivagiri pilgrimage meeting, we heard such an argument from a speaker. Since the Guru envisioned the Sivagiri pilgrimage as a platform for dialogue, it is essential to correct any misconceptions right here, he said. Advertisement Sanatana Dharma is nothing but varnasrama dharma (caste-based social order), which the Guru had challenged and overcome, he said, adding that the new-age humanistic dharma advocated by him stands with the time, he said. Trying to fix the Guru in the framework of Sanatana Dharma is a great insult to the saint, he said. Varnasrama Dharma is synonymous with or an integral part of Sanatana Dharma, he said, adding that Gurus ascetic life was the one which questioned and defied the entire chaturvarnya system. What is meant by Sanatana Dharma in this context? It is none other than the caste-based dharma, which Guru challenged and overcame, advocating instead for a new humanistic dharma that aligns with the times, he said CM Vijayan said the Sivagiri Madhom has given a socially reformist message by suggesting that devotees abandon the regressive practice of entering temples after removing their shirts. Sivagiri Madhom president Swamy Sachithananda stated that the practice was anachronistic and not in tune with modern progressive values. His words echoed the reformist thought, life and message of Sree Narayana Guru. Revered Swami Satchidananda delivered an important social message today. In line with the progressive legacy of Sree Narayana Guru, he suggested revising the tradition that requires individuals to remove their shirts before entering places of worship. The recommendation holds the potential to become a meaningful social reform, and it is likely that many places of worship will adopt this practice in the future, CM Vijayan said. Refuting CM Vijayans claim on Sanatana Dharma, BJP state president K Surendran said Sree Narayana Guru is a great soul who defined Sanatana Dharma in a way that the common people can understand. He has written about 60 works praising Hindu gods. He demanded that the chief minister who insulted Sree Narayana Dharma in Sivagiri should publicly apologise for it.If Pinarayi Vijayan has criticised Hindus and Hindu traditions, will he has the courage to criticise other religions using the same criteria? We recently saw a picture of Pinarayi Vijayan kneeling in front of Kanthapuram Abubacker Musaliar. Will Pinarayi Vijayan be ready to criticise the Quran like other rationalists do? Will CPI-M and Pinarayi Vijayan be ready to reject other religious beliefs in the same way as they criticize Sanatana Dharma, he asked. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday lauded the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for successfully launching the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission. The mission was launched on Monday at 10 p.m. The PSLV C60 rocket carrying two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), along with 24 payloads, lifted off from the first launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. About 15 minutes after liftoff, the two small spacecraft weighing about 220 kg each were launched into a 475-km circular orbit as intended. Advertisement Commending on the feat, the Home Minister said this was a grand success and opened a new path for the countrys space docking technology. Advertisement He wrote on X, Bharat paces to become the fourth nation to master space docking. Kudos to Team@isro on the successful launch of #SpaDeX Mission. This is a grand success that opens a new path for Bharat in space docking technology and strengthens its role as a global leader in space. All my best wishes to our geniuses for the journey ahead. India is now the fourth country, after the US, Russia, and China, to master the docking technology. India becomes the fourth to join the select league of nations to seek Space docking, through its own indigenously developed Bharatiya Docking System, said Union Minister Jitendra Singh on X. The technology will pave the way for journey beyond the kies for Gaganyaan and Bharatiya Antriksha Station, Singh said. SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) is a pioneering mission to establish Indias capability in orbital docking, a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions, ISRO said. The PSLV lifted off with two small spacecraft SDX01, the chaser, and SDX02, the Target weighing about 220 kg each. The satellites merged or joined for docking in a low-Earth circular orbit. ISRO is to wait for four days for docking orientation to evaluate the software process The Bharatiya Docking System includes a docking mechanism, a suite of four rendezvous and docking sensors, power transfer technology, an Indigenous novel autonomous rendezvous and docking strategy, and an inter-satellite communication link (ISL) for autonomous communication between spacecraft, incorporated with inbuilt intelligence to know the states of the other spacecraft, among others. Mastering the space docking technology may not only propel India into the elite club of spacefaring nations. It is also key for Indiasimpending space missions including the Moon mission, setting up the Indian space station, and lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4 without the support of GNSS from Earth. According to ISRO, it will also demonstrate the transfer of electric power between the docked spacecraft, which is essential for future applications such as in-space robotics composite spacecraft control, and payload operations after undocking. SpaDEX will also use PSLVs fourth stage, POEM-4, for experiments. The stage also carries 24 payloads from academic institutions and startups. Continuing to keep the heat on the DMK government of MK Stalin over the sexual assault of a girl student in the prestigious Anna University, in the heart of Chennai, the BJP on Tuesday announced a padayatra from Madurai to press for justice for the victim. Condemning the atrocity meted out to the girl student and the DMK government attempting to prevent the full truth from coming out because the offender belongs to the DMK, the BJP Mahila Morcha will launch a padayatra from Madurai to Chennai on January 3, party state president K Annamalai said in a post on X. The yatra would be led by state BJP mahila morcha President Umarathi and on its conclusion, a memorandum will be submitted to the Governor, he added. Advertisement Annamalais novel protest of flogging himself six times in front of his house last week to condemn the incident and deciding not to wear footwear till the DMK is ousted from power has only invited ridicule, flooding social media with memes. Advertisement Earlier on Monday, close on the heels of actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay meeting Governor RN Ravi, Annamalai arrived at the Raj Bhavan, urging him to ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the sexual assault case. Governor Ravi is also the Chancellor of Anna University, a highly reputed institution for technical education. The victim, a second year student of Mechanical Engineering, was sexually assaulted on the night of December 23 after her boyfriend was thrashed and chased away. On her complaint, police arrested the accused, Gnanasekaran (37), running a roadside biriyani shop near the varsity. His third wife is a conservancy worker in the varsity. During initial inquiry, the police are said to have found a cache of videos on unnatural sex. The Madras High Court, which entrusted the investigation to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of three women IPS officers, has ordered Rs 25 lakh compensation to the victim and also directed the university to provide free education and boarding. The court also rapped the police for the way the FIR was written, in a tone of blaming the victim and revealing the identity as well as family details. Further, it pulled up the city police for the FIR being leaked in the public domain. The opposition AIADMK and the BJP as well as the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) of Seeman have been relentless in cornering the ruling DMK on the issue. Seeman was detained along with his supporters while holding a protest in Chennai earlier in the day. AIADMK IT Wing members were also detained and cases registered against them for staging a protest demonstration in the city. This protest was in continuation of the AIADMKs state wide agitation. The AIADMK has christened the campaign Who is that Sir as the rape survivor had mentioned in her police complaint that the accused received a call whom he addressed as sir. During the series of protests, party workers are holding placards Who is that Sir? Countering the opposition onslaught, senior DMK Minister S Regupathy blamed them of playing cheap politics. We will ensure speedy justice and there is no need for us to protect anyone. Tamil Nadu is the safest place for women. Even the NIC had clarified that the FIR was not leaked and that there was a technical issue that enabled some people to download it. It has been fixed shortly, he told the media, adding that it is to the credit of the DMK government that the victim had approached the police with confidence that she will get Justice. EPS (AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami) is unable to digest the fact that the accused had been arrested and remanded. Annamalai is trying to gain political mileage out of a tragic incident, he charged. The crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243 near Aktau, Kazakhstan, has exposed grave risks associated with civilian aviation in conflict zones. The tragedy, which claimed 38 lives, was caused by external interference in Russian airspace. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev revealed that the plane had been electronically jammed and then mistakenly shot at by Russian air defences. This damning statement, coupled with Mr Aliy evs criticism of initial Russian attempts to obscure the truth, underscores the catastrophic consequences of overlapping civilian and military operations. Russian President Vladimir Putins rare apology to Mr Aliyev signifies a subtle acknowledgment of responsibility, even as the Kremlin refrains from explicitly admitting fault. The conflicting statements from the two presidents and their respective governments highlight a troubling lack of transparency in such crises. While Mr Putins apology acknowledged the tragic nature of the incident, it carefully sidestep ped direct responsibility, leaving room for ambiguity. In contrast, Mr Aliyevs unequivocal assertion of Russian guilt and accusations of a cover-up intensify the demand for accountability. This disparity in narratives further complicates the search for truth and underscores the need for impartial international oversight in investigating such incidents. The pilots extraordinary heroism in steering the crippled plane across the Caspian Sea allowed 29 pas s en gers to survive, but at the cost of their own lives. Advertisement Their sacrifice is rightly being honoured in Azerbaijan, with President Aliyev leading tributes and highlighting their selflessness in the face of imminent death. This incident highlights the persistent dangers civilian aircraft face when flying near active war zones. The use of advanced air defences and electronic jamming, necessary for countering threats like Ukrainian drones, poses a significant risk to civilian aviation. Flight J2-8243 joins a grim list of such tragedies, including the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 and the 2020 Iranian attack on a Ukrainian airliner. In each case, civilian casualties were the result of military miscalculations. The crash also raises critical questions about airspace governance and military accountability. Advertisement Mr Aliyevs demand for Russia to accept responsibility and punish those at fault echoes calls for systemic change. Stricter protocols must ensure civilian airspace remains separate from militarised zones. Real-time communication between military and civil aviation authorities is essential, as is the pre-emptive closure of vulnerable air routes during active conflicts. Beyond immediate accountability, the incident sheds light on the challenges posed by modern warfare. The proliferation of weaponized drones increases the likelihood of hasty, high-stakes decisions by defence operators, often with tragic consequences. International aviation bodies must address these risks by establishing comprehensive safeguards that prioritise civilian safety over operational convenience. While Mr Putins apology is diplomatically significant, it cannot replace the need for transparency and justice. Ultimately, the tragedy of Flight J2-8243 calls for accountability, reform, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that civilian lives are never collateral damage in geopolitical conflicts. An agreement on resolving the standoff in Ladakh was reached on 21 October, just prior to the Brics summit in Kazan, Russia, paving the way for a Narendra Modi-Xi Jinping dialogue at the venue. The Chinese readout of the meeting said, President Xi stressed that China-India relations are essentially a question of how the two large developing countries and neighbours, each with a 1.4-billion-strong population, treat each other. It added, The two sides agreed to make good use of the Special Representatives (SR) mechanism on the China-India boundary question, ensure peace and tranquillity in border areas, and find a fair and reasonable settlement. Both sides had by then pulled back to their original positions and agreed on recommencement of coordinated patrolling, which has since been underway. In other locations where disengagement has already taken place, buffer zones remain, implying that a final resolution is still some distance away. The decision by China, which waded in four years ago, to withdraw to its pre-Galwan deployment, has been considered by some as a victory for India. This is based on the fact that China failed to change the status quo of the LAC and the fact that India refused to bend. This may not be a true assessment. China utilized the period of standoff to enhance its infrastructure, increasing its ability to repeat similar intrusions. Advertisement In all probability, the Chinese were sending a message that they possess the power to ignite the border at will. The current pullback is not the end but possibly a pause before another incident, unless India changes its approach towards countering the Chinese. This implies that India, in the future, must adopt a quid quo pro approach, including intruding in a similar manner. The meeting between the leaders was followed by an interaction between the two SRs the Indian National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, and the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi. These discussions led to announcement of resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers and recommencement of border trade at Nathu La in Sikkim. Advertisement The move forward on resolving the LAC will be a slow process. Chinese intrusions and standoffs have occurred at regular intervals, normally coinciding with events or visits. Till Galwan, standoffs were marked by both sides holding their positions with multilingual placards demanding that the other withdraw. Troops stayed in place and ultimately both sides pulled back, normally after discussions at the next higher level. Galwan was the first violent incident followed by Yangtze in December 2022. However, there was no firing in either incident. Evidently, the days of placards are over and violence will guide future confrontations, albeit with hand held weapons. Unless a resolution on the LAC emerges, these fisticuffs could turn into firing incidents, escalating the LAC possibly on similar lines as the LOC with Pakistan. Despite a pull-back and restoration of patrolling following high level meetings, a major trust deficit continues to exist. India hesitates to term the relationship normal, instead refers to it as stable but sensitive, giving the impression that normalcy which existed pre-2020 is still some distance away. With continued presence of additional forces and existence of buffer zones, threats remain. The fact remains that India and China are rivals in Asia and while there may be peace along the borders, there will always be an underplay of tensions, amidst the competition. Both nations are seeking to expand their region of influence. While China has been making inroads into South Asia, India has been doing the same in countries in conflict with China. Both nations are also battling for leadership of the global South. The current detente suits both nations for the moment. China is feeling Western pressures with increased tariffs on its products, denial of dual use technology and enhanced military support to Taiwan. It needs the Indian market more than ever for its economy to survive. The return of Donald Trump to the White House could add to diplomatic and economic pressures. Further, China cannot afford India moving closer to the US. India is seeking to expand its global footprint and for that to happen it cannot be seen as surrendering to China. Further, in South Asia, India backing down and accepting a Chinese presence on its soil would open the doors for greater Chinese influence with nations working to resolve their border differences with China, ignoring Indias concerns. India also needs Chinese technology and investments. Growing bilateral trade, with the deficit favouring China, implies that Indias dependence on China is nowhere near reducing. The issue at hand is whether this detente can be expected to sustain. The Chinese intent appears to be to regain Taiwan as its priority rather than engage with India militarily. It is aware that the Indian armed forces are capable and can withstand Chinese pressures. Hence, what would both nations be seeking at the moment? India would be seeking to continue discussions to convert the LAC into a marked LOC, akin to its border with Pakistan, until a permanent resolution is arrived at. Once demarcated, chances of intrusions would reduce. The question is whether China would be willing. The Chinese intent would be to keep India in good humour while it concentrates on its other problems including handling the US, reinvigorating its economy and shifting focus to regaining control over Taiwan. It remains hopeful that at some stage it can resolve Taiwan politically, post which it could shift focus to the Indian border. Chinese military power is being developed to counter the US rather than India, while Indian military power is intended to counter China. Simultaneously, China would hope that the India-US strategic relationship suffers a setback which would work to its benefit. At the end of the day, leaders of both nations made strategic errors. The Indian leadership trusted the Chinese, despite Doklam, and never expected Beijing to act the way it did, an act which surprised it. Xi Jinping, on his part, was unprepared for Indias response, determination not to bow down and relentless pursuit for ultimate withdrawal. The agreement and pull back has been a face-saver for both nations. Will this translate into a resolution along the LAC or will it be just another stop gap measure before the Chinese make another attempt? (The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.) At least 10 people were killed and over seven others injured when a passenger bus overturned in the Attock district of Pakistans Punjab province on Monday, police officials said. The accident took place on the motorway near Fateh Jang area of the district when the driver of the bus lost control of the vehicle due to a tyre burst, leading to the tragic crash, officials from National Highways and Motorway Police said. Advertisement Women and children are among the victims of the unfortunate accident, the officials said, adding that the bus was on its way to the federal capital Islamabad from the eastern Bahawalpur district when it met the accident. Advertisement Upon receiving the information, police, along with rescue workers, reached the site and shifted the injured to a nearby hospital, where two passengers were said to be in critical condition. Earlier on Monday morning, a passenger van and trailer collided with each other in Naushahro Feroze district of the countrys southern Sindh province, leaving six people dead on the spot and at least 15 others wounded. Earlier on June 25, 2023, at least 10 people were killed and over 40 others were injured when two passenger buses collided in the Nawab Shah district of Sindh province, media reports said. The accident had occurred in the districts Daur area when the two buses, travelling in opposite directions on a single-lane road, had overtaken two different vehicles at the same time, resulting in the crash. Passengers trapped in the bus were pulled out, and the injured were rushed to the local hospitals. One of the buses was reportedly travelling from Peshawar to Karachi, while the other one was heading towards Punjab province from Karachi. Similarly, on June 9, 2022, at least three people were killed and 10 others injured after a truck collided with a passenger bus in the Narowal district of Punjab province, the countrys state media reported. According to the reports, the accident had taken place in Kartarpur town of the district due to overspeeding of the truck. The victims had been shifted to a local hospital, rescue workers told local media. Road accidents frequently happen in Pakistan, mainly due to poorly maintained vehicles, dilapidated roads, and negligence of road safety measures. Head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak reacted to the morning attack by the Russian occupiers on Tuesday. "Typical Russian terrorists," he wrote on his Telegram. Earlier, explosions were reported in Kyiv and several regions. The Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine warned of the threat of the use of ballistic weapons throughout Ukraine. As reported, Russian troops launched a missile attack on the infrastructure of Shostka community of Sumy region on Tuesday. Afghan counter-narcotics police have arrested 12 people on the charge of drug smuggling in seven out of Afghanistans 34 provinces, the Ministry of Interior said in a statement on Monday. According to the statement, police have detained individuals allegedly involved in the sale, purchase and smuggling of the contraband on the outskirts of Laghman, Bamyan, Kapisa, Parwan, Kunduz, Herat, and Farah provinces. Advertisement A quantity of illicit drugs, including opium, hashish and stimulant tablets, has been seized from the detainees and their dossiers were referred to the judiciary for further investigation, Xinhua news agency reported. Advertisement Earlier on December 22, the Afghan counter-narcotics police seized 38 kg of illicit drugs and arrested 11 suspects in connection with drug trafficking, purchase, and sales, the Ministry of Interior reported. Units of counter-narcotics police had recently conducted an operation in the Durbaba district of eastern Nangarhar province, discovering 38 kg of illicit drugs, including methamphetamine and heroin, the ministry said in a statement. Eleven individuals were arrested in connection with drug trafficking, purchase, and sales on the outskirts of the provinces of Laghman, Kapisa, Parwan, Khost, and Farah, it added in another statement. Earlier on December 18, counter-narcotics police uncovered 56 kg of illicit drugs and arrested 151 individuals on charges of drug trafficking over the past three months in eastern Afghanistans Parwan province, a local police official reported. Units of counter-narcotics police had launched separate operations on the outskirts of Charikar city, the capital, and in districts of the province, discovering 56 kg of illegal drugs, said Fazal Rahim Maskenyar, spokesman for the provincial police. At least 151 individuals were arrested in connection with drug trafficking. Their dossiers were referred to the judiciary for further investigation, he added. On November 12, counter-narcotics police in Afghanistan had seized illicit drugs and arrested 53 people on charges of involvement in criminal activities, including drug smuggling and murders. Units of counter-narcotics police had launched separate operations on the outskirts of southern Kandahar province, discovering 129 kg of illegal drugs, including heroin, opium, and hashish, the office of provincial police said in a statement. Nine individuals were arrested in connection with the drug trafficking, purchase, and sales. Their dossiers were referred to the judiciary for further investigation, the statement added. Additionally, police had taken into custody 44 suspects on charges of involvement in criminal activities such as murder and theft in the provinces of Nangarhar, Balkh, Laghman, Farah, Baghlan, Herat, and Nangarhar, the Ministry of Interior reported. The Afghan caretaker government had vowed to fight illicit drugs, drug production and trafficking, and crackdown on other criminal elements to ensure law and order across the country. As the world prepares to usher in 2025, the celebration of the New Year will unfold in a remarkable global journey, with different time zones marking the arrival of the year at different moments. From bustling cities to quiet islands, the joy of ringing in the New Year connects people across the globe. But do you know the first and last countries who join the race? However, for those keen on knowing which places will celebrate first and last, the tiny island nation of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean will take the spotlight, as it becomes the first to welcome the New Year. Advertisement At 01:30 PM IST on December 31, Kiribatis Line Islands will be the first to enter 2025. This early celebration is due to Kiribatis location just west of the International Date Line, making it the first place on Earth to mark the transition into the New Year. Advertisement Following Kiribati, neighboring Tonga and Samoa will join the festivities at 04:30 PM IST on December 31. As the hours roll on, countries like New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and South Korea will follow, ringing in 2025 with their own celebrations. But while many nations will be celebrating in the blink of an eye, the last places to enter the New Year will be two uninhabited territories in the Pacific: Baker Island and Howland Island. These remote islands, located 26 hours behind Kiribati, will officially mark the arrival of 2025 at 05:30 PM IST on January 1, 2025. Despite having no permanent residents, these islands are the final spots on Earth to welcome the New Year. The journey of New Years Eve celebrations is a fascinating one, as it travels from the Pacific islands to the rest of the world, crossing time zones and bringing joy to millions. Heres a look at when first to last countries will celebrate New Year 2025 in IST: Kiribatis Line Islands: 03:30 PM IST, December 31 Tonga and Samoa: 04:30 PM IST, December 31 New Zealand: 03:30 PM IST, December 31 Russia and Fiji: 05:30 PM IST, December 31 Australia: 06:30 PM IST, December 31 Papua New Guinea: 07:30 PM IST, December 31 India: 12:00 AM IST, January 1 American Samoa: 11:00 AM IST, January 1 Howland Island and Baker Island: 05:30 PM IST, January 1 As the world celebrates the arrival of 2025, the journey across time zones from first to last countries show diversity and unity of global traditions. For India, the countdown begins at midnight, joining the rest of the world in ushering in a new year full of hope and possibilities. The South Korean government said on Monday that it plans to conduct a safety inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic airlines following a Jeju Air Co. plane crash that claimed 179 lives the previous day. In Sundays Jeju Air crash in the southwestern county of Muan, it is believed that all three landing gears had failed to operate properly. The aircraft involved in the accident was a Boeing B737-800. Advertisement A Transport Ministry official said the government plans to thoroughly examine whether various regulations of the Boeing model are being properly followed by airlines, which would check their aircraft utilisation rates, flight inspections, and maintenance records. Advertisement The Boeing 737-800 is widely operated by domestic low-cost carriers. Jeju Air operates the largest number of this model, with 39 aircraft in its fleet. Other operators include Tway Air with 27 aircraft, Jin Air with 19, Eastar Jet with 10, and Air Incheon with two. Korean Air, the nations largest airline, operates two units of the model, Yonhap news agency reported. Following the accident, the ministry has informed the six airliners operating the same model that it would dispatch air safety inspectors to conduct comprehensive safety inspections covering pilot training, engines and landing gears of the Boeing 737-800s. Earlier in the day, a separate Jeju Air flight of the same aircraft model made a return after taking off from Gimpo International Airport due to a landing gear issue that was found similarly in Sundays crash. It was of the same Boeing B737-800 model involved in the accident. We plan to implement rigorous aviation safety inspections in response to the (landing gear) incidents, Joo Jong-wan, aviation policy chief at the Transport Ministry, said during a briefing at the Sejong government complex. Joo noted that Jeju Air was known for its high aircraft utilisation rate, which some observers have pointed to as a possible factor in Sundays crash. Following the landing gear issue reported on Monday, the ministry dispatched safety inspectors to the company to investigate the latest case. Meanwhile, one of the two flight recording devices recovered from the crash site has been found with external damage, according to Joo. It has been transported to Gimpo International Airport for further analysis. The ministry official also said the US National Transportation Safety Board will participate in the investigation into the crash. Boeing and engine manufacturer CFM International have also been approached for cooperation. Special forces of the Main Intelligence Agency (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine on Tuesday, December 31, for the first time in military history destroyed an aerial target, a Russian Mi8 helicopter, using a Magura V5 naval drone equipped with missile weapons, the press service of the GUR reported. "On December 31, 2024, soldiers of the special forces of the GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Group 13, for the first time in history hit an aerial target using a Magura V5 naval drone equipped with missile weapons," the GUR said in a Telegram message on Tuesday. It is reported that during the battle in the Black Sea near Cape Tarkhankut in the temporarily occupied Crimea, a Russian Mi-8 helicopter was destroyed as a result of the use of R-73 SeeDragon missiles. Another similar enemy helicopter was hit by fire and was able to reach its home airfield. One would have thought that after the harrowing 2012 Nirbhaya case, womens safety in India would have become an unwavering priority. The protests, the promises, the outpouring of rage it felt like a turning point. Yet here we are, over a decade later, grappling with the same cycle of fear, silence, and systemic violence. Just this year, a chilling incident in Kolkata reminded us how fragile the promises of safety truly are. As a nation that prides itself on being at the forefront of technology and economic clout, we must ask ourselves: what good are these milestones if half our population still walks in fear? Arshiya Lokhandwala But this isnt just an Indian storyits a global one. In Iran, a new law titled Protection of the Family through Promoting the Culture of Hijab and Chastity restricts womens clothing, movement, and education under severe penalties. Meanwhile, Iraqs proposal to lower the legal marriage age for girls to nine has sparked international outrage. Different geographies, same patriarchal playbook. It is within this stark reality that Iranian artist Shadi Ghadirians work emergesnot as a solution, but as a mirror. I am curating her exhibition, 'Our Stone Age', on January 9 at the Kamalnayan Bajaj Art Gallery during Mumbai Gallery Weekend. This isnt just a showcase of images; its an urgent call to confront the weight women carry every day. I first encountered Shadis work in Tehran in 2014. Walking into the gallery, I was stunned, not just by her art, but by the fact that her deeply subversive and critical work was being shown publicly in Iran. It felt like an act of quiet rebellion, each photograph carrying the conviction of an entire community demanding change. I remember wearing a hijab during that visit, always glancing over my shoulder, worried about being stopped by the hijab police. Shadis images took me back to those momentsthe weight of silence, the vulnerability of simply existing as a woman in certain spaces. Take her 'Qajar Series' (1998), for example. Inspired by her time interning at the Tehran Photography Museum, where she encountered the large photography collection of Naser al-Din Shah, the fourth Qajar ruler who photographed his harem of 400 women. Shadi juxtaposes women dressed in 19th-century Qajar attire with modern-day objectsa soda can, sunglasses, a boom box. The clash between tradition and modernity feels absurd, yet painfully familiar. These women are frozen in time, their identities flattened by societal expectations. Qajar Series, 1998 In 'Miss Butterfly' (2011), Shadi draws from Persian folklore, using the butterfly as a symbol of fleeting freedom. Every image feels delicate, as though freedom itself might shatter under the weight of invisible chains. But it is 'Seven Stones' (2013) that lingers with me the most. Inspired by the Persian childrens game 'Haft Sang', the series uses still-life photography to represent the crushing burdens placed on womenhonour, shame, silence. Each stone tells a story, each shadow speaks of a thousand unspoken fears. While curating this exhibition, I couldnt help but think about how these stories transcend borders. The horrifying case of Gisele Pelicot in France comes to minda woman whose husband drugged and abused her for over a decade while recording every violation on video. Her courage in breaking her silence, in waiving her anonymity, became a rallying cry. Shadis work doesnt claim to fix these injustices. It doesnt promise hope wrapped in neat little bows. Instead, it demands that we confront themface-to-face, frame-by-frame. Are we still trapped in our metaphorical Stone Age, or are we ready to dismantle these oppressive structures? This exhibition is not just a viewing experienceits a conversation, a confrontation, and perhaps, for some, a reckoning. As we prepare to step into 2025, I cant help but think of my dear friend Sunaina Kejriwal, who ran the Kamalnayan Bajaj Gallery with such grace and conviction. We lost her this year, and her absence is palpable. I hope 2025 isnt just another year of promises but a year of real changea time when women can breathe easier, walk safer, and dream louder. Standing before Shadi Ghadirians haunting photographs, may we not only feel the weight of these stories but also find the courage to set it down. Arshiya Lokhandwala is a renowned curator with a PhD in Art History from Cornell University. She will speak at the exhibition venue on January 10. Different stakeholders in the cryptocurrency segment are hopeful that the new year 2025 will see an increase in the adoption of cryptocurrencies going ahead. Globally the crypto segment had seen a remarkable phase in the year 2024 with the crypto market growing its market cap from $1.65 trillion to the current $3.4 trillion, fuelled by key developments like the ETF approvals, rate cuts from major central banks and the re-election of Donald Trump as the US president taking Bitcoin over a milestone of $100,000. More clarity is expected on the crypto front in the year 2025, both globally as well as in India. The outlook for 2025 is even more promising with pro-crypto leadership at the SEC, CFTC, and the White House working towards crypto-friendly regulations. With better regulatory clarity from the US, the institutional interest in crypto is set to get stronger bringing in higher inflows into the ETFs. On the other hand, countries like China, Canada, EU nations and the Middle East are easing restrictions, creating a healthy environment for wider crypto adoption. These developments create a strong pipeline for the crypto industry making 2025 a critical year in taking crypto investing mainstream. As adoption increases and the market matures, Bitcoin could potentially reach $150,000 by the end of the year, creating new milestones for the industry, remarked Edul Patel, Co-founder and CEO of Mudrex. This expert points out that 2024 saw groundbreaking developments such as the US SEC approving Bitcoin spot ETFs, signalling institutional acceptance, and Trump becoming the president and promising a more crypto-friendly environment in the US. Brazil elevated Bitcoin to the status of a strategic reserve, and China legalised Bitcoin ownership, marking a seismic shift in the global regulatory landscape. Looking ahead to 2025, Trump's anticipated influence in the Senate could drive comprehensive crypto regulations in the US, likely setting a precedent for other nations to follow. The rollout of the EUs MiCA framework next year is again poised to serve as a benchmark, providing guidance and exposing potential challenges for countries developing their regulatory structures. India's rapidly growing crypto adoption highlights the need for more clearer guidelines on taxation. We anticipate the government may address issues such as differentiating long-term and short-term tax treatment for crypto assets. There is also a strong case for reducing TDS rates from the current 1 per cent to 0.01 per cent and allowing gains to offset losses, creating a more conducive environment for investors and industry, added Patel. Experts point out that the crypto market has undergone significant changes this year, driven by increasing investor interest and a recovery in the values of virtual digital assets like Bitcoin. This momentum was further bolstered by the legalization of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States, along with growing institutional interest, which has extended to the altcoin market, signalling a broader shift. The debut of Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, coupled with rising institutional demand for diversified crypto exposure, has showcased the industry's resilience in overcoming the various challenges it faced in 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, the focus will be on increasing knowledge and trust within the crypto community, fostering stronger collaborations with authorities, and enhancing blockchain utility to address real-world challenges. The future of crypto is about more than just trading; its about building a decentralized, inclusive, and innovative digital ecosystem. We are hopeful that in 2025, India will take the lead in forming progressive and comprehensive crypto regulations. Recognizing the importance of India in the crypto space, we registered with the Financial Intelligence Unit India, said Vishal Sacheendran, Head of Regional Markets, Binance. Interestingly, as market analysts point out, India is now home to 11.8 per cent of crypto developers and 5.4 per cent of Web3 creators worldwide. This year, crypto rose beyond its niche status, becoming a central talking point at a global scale, including the 2024 US presidential elections. In 2024 Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, institutional inflows, and the rise of altcoins like XRP reinforced the increasing confidence in crypto as an asset class. Stablecoins issuers, now among the top holders of US Treasury securities, are redefining liquidity and monetary policies, signalling their integration into traditional finance. The surge in tokenisation, blockchain applications, and advancements in cross-border payment systems promise to set the stage for transformative growth in 2025, observed Rahul Pagidipati, CEO, ZebPay. Even as the delivery of GE-404 engines from US-based General Electric (GE) to be used in India's Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk1A has been delayed, leading to a prolonged wait by the Indian Air Force for the fighter jet, it now emerges that the project estimate of Tejas Mark 2 may go up. According to news agency ANI, this is because there are indications that the price deal for GE-414 engines to be used in Tejas Mark 2 is likely to go up due to cost escalation. GE-414 is a high-performance afterburning turbofan engine, known for its application in various advanced fighter aircraft. According to the company, The F414 is a potential powerplant for emerging platforms such as the Korean KF-X and the Indian Medium Combat Aircraft, as well as other potential applications. ALSO READ: HAL set for LCA Tejas Mk1A missile and radar trials State-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has reportedly been in talks with GE for the GE-414 engines. Quoting sources, ANI reported that the price of the deal for the engines is likely to go up in views of the ongoing discussions between HAL and GE. The delay in the supply of GE-404 engines was due to supply chain issues faced by the US company. The IAF has reportedly expressed its displeasure over the delay in the delivery of the fighter jets which would have helped it to meet the contemporary combat requirements. In 2023, HAl and GE had signed a a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which included the potential joint production of GE Aerospaces F414 engines in India. According to GE, F404 and F414 have been part of development and production programs of LCA Mk1 and LCA Mk2 programmes. "In total, 75 F404 engines have been delivered and another 99 are on order for LCA Mk1A. Eight F414 engines have been delivered as part of an ongoing development program for LCA Mk2," the company had said in a statement. The year 2024 saw a huge decline in the recruitment of locals into militancy in Kashmir. Official figures reveal that only seven local youths joined militancy in 2024. According to official figures, 22 youths joined militancy in 2022 and 100 in 2022. This year, 68 militants were killed in different operations, including 42 foreigners. Of these, 17 were killed during infiltration bids at the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB). The remaining were killed in encounters across various districts, including Kupwara, Baramulla, and Rajouri. Baramulla alone accounted for the deaths of 14 foreign militants in nine separate encounters. The year also saw the killing of 30 civilians in militant-related incidentsan increase from 14 in 2023. During the same period, 28 security forces personnel were also killed. ALSO READ: Indian military maintained assertive approach along LAC; focused on boosting operational might Some of the high-profile attacks included the firing in June on a pilgrim bus near Katra, which claimed nine lives and left over 40 injured. The violence escalated further in October when militants attacked a construction workers' camp in Gagangeer, Sonamarg, killing seven people, including a Kashmiri doctor. However, the security forces achieved breakthroughs in several operations and killed top commanders, including Basit Ahmad Dar in Kulgam, Usman Lashkari in Srinagar, and Arbaz Mir in Anantnag belonging to The Resistance Front (TRF) and Hizbul Mujahideen respectively. This was followed by the killing of five Hizbul militants in a December operation in Kulgam. Security officials say the near halt of local recruitment is an achievement. However, the continued threat posed by foreign operatives remains a challenge. The security forces also launched a major crackdown against narco-terrorism. Narcotics smuggling has emerged as a huge challenge as thousands of youth have fallen prey to drug addiction in the Union territory. Effective measures taken by the police, including attaching the properties of those involved in the trade, have considerably reduced the availability of drugs in Kashmir. According to the doctors, these measures have brought down the number of such patients in hospitals. The NCC Republic Day (RD) Camp-2025, which began on Monday at the Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantt, is a testament to the increasing interest that girls are showing in the country's defence services as the month-long event is witnessing participation from a record number of girls. NCC RDC 2025 started with 'SARV DHARAM POOJA' a symbol of 'Unity in Diversity', bringing together over 2361 cadets across India of different region and culture. RDC camp also includes cadets from 15 Foreign Friendly country. The prayers conducted by all religious teachers, pic.twitter.com/ourqkv54oy National Cadet Corps (@HQ_DG_NCC) December 30, 2024 According to defence ministry, as many as 917 among the 2,361 cadets from all 28 states and eight Union territories of the country participating in the event are girls. While Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are sending 114 cadets, 178 cadets are from North East Region. Director General of the National Cadet Corps Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh congratulated the cadets for being selected to the camp and urged them to display the highest qualities of character, integrity, selfless service, comradeship and teamwork. ALSO READ: India's armed forces will be one of the most modern, strongest in the world by 2047, says Rajnath Singh The Republic Day Camp holds the fundamental aim of instilling a profound sense of patriotism, discipline, and leadership qualities among the participating cadets, the ministry said. "This annual event serves as a platform to offer cadets valuable opportunities for training, engaging in cultural activities, and participating in social service initiatives, thereby nurturing unity and pride," a statement from the ministry read. After a long 8-year legal dispute, Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt finalised their divorce on Monday. It was announced in 2016 that they would part ways. Jolies lawyer James Simon confirmed the news to People Magazine, and said, More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over." ALSO READ | Brad Pitt says Angelina Jolie tried to 'inflict harm' on him by selling her share in winery A source close to Jolie also told the magazine, "She doesnt speak ill of [Pitt] publicly or privately. Shes been trying hard to be light after a dark time." Pitts representatives have not yet spoken on the matter. ALSO READ | 'Wicked women' are just women who are tired of injustice, abuse: Angelina Jolie Jolie vs Pitt: From power couple to incompatible Brangelina was one of the most powerful Hollywood couples, idolised as the picture-perfect pair. Though they seemingly had a good run in their relationship, it was a rocky start for them both. Jolie and Pitt met on the set of Mr and Mrs Smith (2005) during its filming in 2004, which is where the romance is rumoured to have blossomed. This was a hot take as Pitt was, at the time, married to Friends star Jennifer Aniston. ALSO READ | Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt reach temporary child custody agreement Aniston and Pitt announced their separation the same year the movie came out. A year later Jolie and Pitt had their first child together, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, making it Jolies third child. Jolie adopted the first two Maddox and Zahara in 2002 and 2005 respectively. The couple later adopted their fourth child, Pax, from Vietnam in 2007, and in 2008, gave birth to twins Knox and Vivienne, completing their big family of eight. Jolie and Pitt with their six children After years of marriage rumours (and also revelations that Pitt cheated on Jolie as cited in Ian Halperin's book Brangelina: The Untold Story of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie), wedding bells began to ring for the couple as they tied the knot in France in 2014. In 2016, a shocking announcement emerged. Jolie disclosed that she had filed divorce from the Se7en actor, citing irreconcilable differences. According to reports, the decision came a few days after the couple's brawling session, which turned into a physical altercation in front of their children. ALSO READ | Judge orders Angelina Jolie to allow Brad Pitt more time with their kids After a long custody battle for their children and many legal disputes ranging from tax filings to property arrangements, the couple are no longer legally bound, as of December 30, 2024. Ahead of his birthday on January 8, actor Yash, in an Instagram post, requested fans to exercise caution and steer clear of celebratory gestures that might put their and others' lives in danger. Writing that the "expression of love" from his fans should not be in the form of "grand gestures and gatherings," the KGF star said it's "time for us to change our language of love, especially when it comes to the celebration of my birthday. The greatest gift for me is knowing you are safe, setting positive examples, achieving your goals, and spreading joy." Wishing fans ahead of the New Year and informing them that he won't be in town for his birthday as he would be busy shooting for his upcoming film, the 38-year-old actor thanked fans for all the love they have showered on him through the years and added it is also a "time for reflection, resolution and charting a new course." It's evident the post, which mentions "some unfortunate incidents", is referring to a tragic situation that happened earlier this year when three of his fans lost their lives while preparing a large cutout of the star. The incident, which occurred when the cutout came in contact with an electric wire, also caused injuries to three others. Yash is in the middle of filming Geetu Mohandas' Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-ups, supposedly a gangster drama, produced jointly by him and Venkat K Narayana under the banners KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations. In the past, India has witnessed numerous instances of freak accidents where fans had put themselves in danger and lost their lives while indulging in grand gestures to celebrate their idols' birthdays or movie releases. It has only been weeks since the horrifying Pushpa 2 stampede death that triggered a major debate on ensuring the safety of fans in public spaces and the need for celebrities and police officials to take precautionary measures ahead of a large gathering. Last year, there were separate incidents where fans of big South Indian superstars died while celebrating their birthdays and movie releases. In December 2023, a Prabhas fan died of electric shock when the iron frame of the Salaar banner he was working on came in contact with a live wire. In July 2023, two Suriya fans, both undergraduate students, died of electrocution while putting up a banner to celebrate the actor's birthday in Andhra Pradesh. In January 2023, a 19-year-old Ajith fan from Chennai fell off a moving lorry after losing his balance while dancing and died in the hospital after suffering a fracture to the spinal cord. He was celebrating the release of the actor's Thunivu. In September 2020, three Pawan Kalyan fans died of electrocution while erecting birthday banners for the actor-turned-politician in Andhra Pradesh. In August 2019, a Prabhas fan died of electrocution and the resultant fall while fixing a banner of Saaho on a theatre building. In June 2015, a fan of Sudeep died of electrocution while carrying the actor's hoarding during a release-day procession. The Cabinet of Ministers has appointed Pylyp Pronin as head of the State Financial Monitoring Service of Ukraine, Ruslan Kravchenko as head of the State Tax Service of Ukraine. Taras Melnychuk, a representative of the Cabinet of Ministers in the Verkhovna Rada, said on the Telegram channel that the relevant decision was made at a government meeting on Tuesday. At the same time, Ihor Cherkasky was dismissed from the post of head of the State Financial Monitoring Service of Ukraine. Critically acclaimed All We Imagine as Light which won the prestigious Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year will make its way to Disney+ Hotstar after its theatrical run. Meanwhile, Marvel is making way for the cinematic debut of supervillain Kraven in their upcoming film Kraven the Hunter. OTT RELEASES All We Imagine as Light Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar Release date: January 3 The MalayalamHindi feature film which won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival chronicles the life of two roommates, Prabha and Anu, who are nurses employed in a Mumbai hospital. Prabha receives an unexpected package from her estranged husband that turns her life topsy-turvy. Anu, eager to be alone with her boyfriend, tries to find a private spot in the big city. Directed by Payal Kapadia, the film stars Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhayam Kadam, Hridhu Haroon, and Azees Nedumangad. Gladiator II Streaming platform: Amazon Prime Video Release date: January 1 Years after the death of Maximus, Lucius, the nephew of Commodus, enters the Colosseum after the emperors of Rome take over his home. Lucius carries the onus of bringing glory back to his people. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington, and features the returning cast of Derek Jacobi and Connie Nielsen. Avicii Im Tim Streaming platform: Netflix Release date: December 31 Nearly five years after the death of the man who revolutionised EDM music, Henrik Burman brings to screen the life of Swedish DJ Avicii, known to friends and family as Tim. The documentary aims to explore the musician's early start in the industry through archival footage, his meteoric rise to fame, and the heavyweights that pulled him down. Avicii My Last Show Streaming platform: Netflix Release date: December 31 On August 28, 2016, Swedish DJ Avicii took his final bow at Ibiza's Ushuaia. Now, with hit songs like Hey Brother, Wake Me Up, Levels, and Without You, the pressures of fame have led to his decision to step away from the spotlight. After eight years of creating music, Avicii performs his poignant swan song before retreating to his life as Tim Bergling. Cunk on Life Streaming platform: Netflix Release date: January 2 Philomena Cunk is back to tackle all your burning questions. While grappling with her existential musings, the hilariously oblivious and deadpan documentarian promises answersthough accuracy isnt guaranteed. Bringing in experts to discuss how many buildings were knocked down to make way for forests, and why animals exist, Cunk takes on the onus to find the answers. Philomena Cunk is played by Diane Morgan. Gunaah: Season 2 Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar Release date: January 3 Picking up where the last season left off, Abhimanyu continues his revenge mission after his release from prison and dramatic physical transformation. His quest is fueled by the anger caused by the one he loved the most, his girlfriend who betrayed him, by falsely accusing him of a crime he did not commit. Created by Anirudh Pathak, inspired by the Turkish series Ezel, the series stars Surbhi Jyoti, Gashmeer Mahajani, Darshan Pandya, and Shashank Ketkar. Missing You Streaming platform: Netflix Release date: January 1 Eleven years after the disappearance of her fiance Josh, Detective Kat Donovan is approached by a teenage boy who he believes that his mother has been kidnapped by a man who she met through a dating app named Josh. Using her detective skills as her primary asset, she digs deeper to find her fiances true motives and uncover long-held questions. Based on the book of the same name by Harlen Coben, the series stars Rosalind Eleazar, Jessica Plummer, Richard Armitage, Lenny Henry, and Steve Pemberton. THEATRE RELEASES Kraven The Hunter Release date: January 1 Marvel comics supervillain, Kraven the Hunter, a foe of Spider-Man, makes his cinematic debut. The story chronicles the transformation of Sergei Kravinoff into Kraven, a man with animal instincts after being attacked by a lion in his teenage years. Directed by J. C. Chandor, the film stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, and Russell Crowe. Identity Release date: January 2 Haran Shankar, a sketch artist, is tasked with finding the man responsible for the murder of a woman. When an eyewitness Alisha comes forward, her photographic memory proves to be an asset in finding the perpetrator. With the skills he possesses paired with his years of experience, Haran puts pen to paper to create an image resting in Alishas memory. Directed by Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, the film features Tovino Thomas, Trisha, Vinay Rai, Archana Kavi, and Aju Varghese. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Release date: January 3 In the third instalment of the series, Sonic the Hedgehog faces off against Shadow, who arrived via a meteorite on Earth in the 70s and was seized by the military. Sonic, along with Tails and Knuckles and their adoptive human parents Tom and Maddie, team up to stop Shadow, who is causing destruction and total obliteration of cities. Directed by Jeff Fowler, the film stars Ben Schwartz, Jim Carrey, Keanu Reeves, Idris Elba, and Colleen O'Shaughnessey. CPI (M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq have criticised the decision to omit July 13 and December 5 from Jammu and Kashmir's official holiday list for 2025. Both leaders labelled the move as "regrettable" and misrepresenting history. In a statement from the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha, Tanvir Sadiq condemned the exclusion of holidays commemorating Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs death anniversary and the 13th Martyr's Day. Tanvir expressed disappointment over the Bharatiya Janata Party's decision. He said it disregards Kashmir's rich history and the democratic struggle of its people. "We had hoped to see holidays commemorating revered leaders such as Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and the martyrs of July 13th included in the list, he said. However, their absence does not diminish their significance or the enduring legacy they have left behind. Rest assured, these important holidays will be restored one day." Tarigami echoed similar sentiments on X. He described the omission as "very unfortunate." He highlighted July 13s historical importance, honouring those who stood against autocratic rule and the significance of December 5 in commemorating Sheikh Abdullahs contributions to democratisation, land reforms, free education and women's empowerment. Tarigami warned that eliminating these commemorations undermines the values and milestones they represent. "Erasing such pivotal markers from public memory weakens the foundation of our shared history. Distorting it will serve no constructive purpose," he said. Sheikh Abdullah is the founder of the NC and was prime minister of Jammu and Kashmir from 1947 to 1953. He later became chief minister in 1977, following the 1975 Indira-Sheikh Accord. In November, the Omar-led government formally submitted a proposal to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, requesting the reinstatement of the holiday. However, no action has been taken, leaving the matter in limbo as 2025 draws closer. The absence of Sheikh Abdullahs birthday from the official holiday list underscores the ongoing power struggle between elected representatives and the lieutenant governors office. As the debate continues, excluding these significant dates serves as a reminder of the shifting political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan slammed Maharashtra Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane for his mini Pakistan comment against the state and said it reflects Sangh Parivars hate campaign against Kerala. In a post on X, Vijayan said the Maharashtra ministers comments were condemnable. The derogatory remark by Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister @NiteshNRane, labelling Kerala as mini-Pakistan, is deeply malicious & utterly condemnable. Such rhetoric reflects the hate campaigns orchestrated by the Sangh Parivar against Kerala, a bastion of secularism & communal harmony, the CPI(M) leader said. The derogatory remark by Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister @NiteshNRane, labelling Kerala as mini-Pakistan, is deeply malicious & utterly condemnable. Such rhetoric reflects the hate campaigns orchestrated by the Sangh Parivar against Kerala, a bastion of secularism & Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) December 31, 2024 Strongly denouncing the comments, Vijayan said secular forces should unite against such hate campaigns. We strongly denounce this vile attack on Kerala, & call upon all democratic & secular forces to unite against Sangh Parivars hateful propaganda, the Kerala chief minister urged. Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane kicked up a row on Monday by labelling Kerala mini-Pakistan. Rane said Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi were elected as members of Parliament from Kerala because terrorists voted for them. "Kerala is mini Pakistan, that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister were elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. This is the truth, you can ask. They have become MPs after taking terrorists with them," Rane said. However, Rane later clarified that he was comparing the situation in southern state with Pakistan. The way Hindus are treated in Pakistan...if such situations happen in our very own country, we must take action against that. That is what I was trying to say in my speech," he said. A voice that dominated the Telangana Assembly for close to a decade has gone completely silent over the past few months. Former Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) President and former Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) has deprived the house of his interesting anecdotes, fiery speeches, and sharp rebuttals. Exactly a year ago, his party lost the Assembly elections to the Congress party. Though KCR was elected as the main opposition leader, he decided to stay away from the Assembly. The new term has witnessed four Assembly sessions, and KCR entered the hall just once, in July of this year. He was seen in the Assembly for a couple of hours during the budget session. Initially, his movements were restricted as he underwent hip surgery. In February, he entered the Assembly premises but took the oath in the speakers chamber and left. Barring these two occasions, KCR has confined himself mostly to his farmhouse located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Filling his shoes are party working president and his son, KT Rama Rao and former Finance Minister and nephew, Harish Rao. Recently, a session was held to pay tributes to former PM Manmohan Singh. KCR holds a special connection with the former PM, as it was during UPA 1 under PM Singh that KCR served as Union Shipping and Labour Minister. Also, it was during Singhs time that the formal process of bifurcating Telangana was kickstarted. Though KCR was invited to be a part of the special session, he skipped it for reasons unknown. It is highly likely that KCR will continue to maintain this stand next year as well. In the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, it has now almost become a norm not to see the main opposition party leaders in the Assembly. Currently, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) President and former CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has not been attending the sessions after his party lost in the assembly polls held simultaneously with the general elections in May of this year. Jagan has not been allotted the opposition party leader status in view of his party not having the required percentage of MLAs. YSRCP has contested this decision and the matter is pending in courts. Even then, Jagan is seen as the voice and face of the opposition. Jagan entered the Assembly hall only once after he lost his position as CM, when he took the oath and left immediately. In July, he also protested at the assembly premises alleging political violence against his party members by the TDP government. He wasnt seen in the latest session of the Assembly proceedings. In the last term, between 2019 and 2024, current CM and former CM N Chandrababu Naidu decided to boycott the Assembly after alleging humiliating treatment from the ruling YSRCP members. He vowed not to enter the Assembly until he became CM again. Between 2014 and 2019, Jagan was missing in the Assembly for the later half of the term. As an opposition leader then, Jagan objected to TDPs alleged poaching of his party MLAs. Angered and unconvinced by the Speaker's inaction, he decided to stay away from the Assembly and undertook a walkathon (Padayatra) across the state to highlight peoples issues, which ultimately won him power. Hours after Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh tendered an apology on Tuesday for the ethnic violence that claimed over 250 lives, the Congress party asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi couldnt go to the northeast state and do the same even though he travels across the country and the world. "Why can't the Prime Minister go to Manipur and say the same thing there? He has deliberately avoided visiting the state since May 4, 2023, even as he jets around the country and the world," Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said in a post on X. He added that the people of Manipur cannot understand the neglect by the prime minister. #WATCH | Delhi | On Manipur CM N Biren Singh's statement today, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh says, " ...The Prime Minister should go to Manipur and say the same thing that the CM said today. The people of Manipur are asking why the PM is neglecting us..." pic.twitter.com/UdlkqX4dMn ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2024 Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Singh apologised for the ethnic clashes that erupted in the state in May 2023, and appealed to all communities to forget and forgive past mistakes and live together in a "peaceful" and "prosperous" state. "I want to say sorry for what happened in the state. Many people lost their loved ones and many had to leave their homes. I regret and want to apologise. But after seeing relative peace in the last three-four months, I hope that normalcy will be restored in the coming year, Singh said. "Whatever happened has happened... I want to appeal to all communities to forgive and forget our past mistakes and start life afresh by living together in a peaceful and prosperous Manipur," he added. #WATCH | Imphal: Manipur CM N Biren Singh says "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what is happening till today, since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I pic.twitter.com/tvAxInKPdg ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2024 Manipur violence: CM Biren Singh says 'sorry' to people 19 months after ethnic clashes erupted The Congress-led opposition has been targeting the central government over the violence, questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modis silence over the issue. The grand old party has been criticisng Modi for not visiting the state since the clashes bigan. According to a report of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Manipur accounted for about 77 per cent of the total violence in the entire northeastern region in 2023. Among the total 243 violent incidents occurred in the Northeast, 187 took place in Manipur, the report said. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has suspended construction activities in Borivali and Byculla after the air quality index breached the 200 mark. It also imposed several restrictions under stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in these areas. The BMC has asked real estate developers and construction agencies to take mitigation measures to fight pollution. The developers have been asked to cover the building under construction with green cloth and install at least 25 feet high sheet or metal covering around the construction project. The developers have also been asked to undertake continuous water spraying, use a misting plant, scientifically store and transport dust, install air quality monitoring sensors, and install vehicle wheel washing facilities. The GRAP-4 restrictions, under the winter air pollution control plan, include a complete ban on construction activities, as the air quality worsened to the 'severe' category due to adverse weather conditions. Due to deteriorating air quality, the Stage 4 curbs had been implemented in Delhi earlier this month. In a statement on December 30, the BMC said that it had inspected 877 construction projects and issued 'Stop Work Notices' at about 286 places so far and that this process would continue until the air quality improved. In a 2020 study titled 'Indoor air quality among Mumbai's resettled populations: Comparing Dharavi slum to nearby rehabilitation sites', authors conducted an experimental investigation of the severity and sources of household air pollution across two low-income housing archetypes in Mumbai. They concluded that low-income housing in Mumbai experiences household air pollution that far exceeds recommended limits. This is true in both slum and rehabilitation communities, despite the use of clean-burning cooking fuels in 7585% of the households. While household air pollution levels varied significantly between units, resettlement dwellings frequently yielded higher HAP levels than slum households, it was found. "While we assume that infections and dubious lifestyle choices were at the root of respiratory illnesses, toxic particulate matter found in today's air pose greater harm than a cigarette," says author Terra Nova, who published a report regarding air pollution in ORF. "During a vulnerability assessment for the Mumbai Climate Action Plan during the previous two years, the World Resources Institute India found that Deonar, Govandi, Mankhurd, and Trombay areas in M (East) ward consistently recorded the highest pollution levels, followed by Mahul, Chembur in M (West) ward, and F (North), including Antop Hill, Sion, and Ghatkopar. While particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were identified as primary pollutants, much above national and international safety standards, these showed fluctuations," reads the report. For a densely populated city like Mumbai, air pollution is a larger threat because the density per square kilometre runs high and toxic air in one place can be a problem for a large number of people. It is important for sub-city level authorities to always stay alert to changes in pollutant strains, atmospheric composition and sources of air pollution. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has been a key driver in framing air pollution policies. While it is effective, it suffers from a lack of manpower," writes Nova. As time runs out for Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya, who has been sentenced to death in Yemen for killing a national, reports cite that the delay in arranging funds for mediation efforts with Yemen's tribal leaders derailed her chances. This comes as Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi approved the death sentence for Nimisha Priya, who will likely be executed in a month. Samuel Jerome, the Indian national who is leading the mediation efforts for Nimisha Priya's release in Yemen, told Manorama Online that there were little efforts to source the second instalment of money for the mediation talks with tribal leaders. "The talks got stalled after we failed to provide the second instalment for talks. Had the talks progressed, Nimisha Priya would have been released by now," Jerome added. In the first round of talks, the action committee formed under the leadership of Jerome managed to meet the victim Talal Abdo Mahdi's family. The action committee had demanded $40,000 to initiate talks with Mahdi's family. The first instalment of $19,871 was provided through the Ministry of External Affairs. The bid to collect money for the second instalment hit the wall after many raised queries seeking the details for which the money was spent. Also read: Yemen president gives nod to Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya's execution; is there still a ray of hope? Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the latest development has come to their attention. Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: "We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Ms. Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter." The incident leading to the murder of Mahdi happened in 2017. Nimisha Priya, a nurse in Kerala migrated to Yemen with her husband. While her husband returned home after the birth of their child, Nimisha stayed back in Yemen to start a clinic in Sanaa under the sponsorship of Mahdi. However, Nimisha's lawyers claim Mahdi began physically abusing her, even taking away her passport. Nimisha overdosed Mahdi with sedatives in order to obtain her passport from his possession. However, Mahdi died. Though she tried to escape, Nimisha was apprehended by Yemeni authorities from Yemen-Saudi border. Sanatan followers from Russia and Ukraine will be praying for an end to the war on the Maha Kumbh Mela grounds at Prayagraj. A spiritual centre, of wood and glass, is being readied for sadhus from the two countries. Besides regular prayers, spiritual discourses will also be conducted here. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh | Preparations for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 are underway in full fledge in Prayagraj city. The city will host Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 from 13th January to 26th February 2025. pic.twitter.com/U8YS4Ti9IX ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2024 They will come together to conduct a havan (fire ritual) for world peace and for peace between their two countries, which have been at war with each other for almost three years. Over 1,000 sadhus of different nationalities are expected to take part in this ritual. The havan has been named the Shivshakti Mahayagya. The sadhus from Russia and Ukraine will also be staying in close proximity. Tents for them have been pitched in the camp site of the followers of the late Swami Somnath Giri who was popularly known as Pilot Baba who had set up ashrams in Japan. A trained pilot, he had attracted a number of foreign followers in his lifetime. He passed away in August this year. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh | Preparations for Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 are in full swing around Triveni Sangam - a sacred confluence of three rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati The city of Prayagraj will host Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 from 13th January to 26th February 2025. pic.twitter.com/8ZJ0FPoNhI ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2024 Prayers and havan for peace will be conducted between January 25 and 30. These will be held under the leadership of Mahamandaleshwar Kaila Mata, who is of Japanese origin. Her official name is Keko Aikawa. It is under her guidance that saints from Australia, United Kingdom, America, Ireland and France will come to the Maha Kumbh Mela. People from 140 countries are expected to be part of the Maha Kumbh Mela, which will kick off on January 13. At the Nagar Pravesh (the symbolic entry of the akhara into the mela grounds) of the Juna akhara, two female saints from the two warring countries rode together. They are also set to participate in the shahi snans together. More sadhus from these countries are expected to reach Prayagraj in January. Besides praying for peace, they will also distribute religious literature and preach the message of love, especially to foreigners. West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari organised a rally and a BJP membership drive in Sandeshkhali on Tuesday, just a day after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee conducted an administrative event in the same area. Controversy erupted at the beginning of the rally as the police claimed the BJP had not obtained the necessary permission for the event held on government premises. Reportedly, the police also advised Adhikari against attending the event, citing potential threats to his life from extremists in this border region. The BJP leader, however, dismissed the claim, stating he had received no such warning from the authorities. On Monday, CM Banerjee accused the BJP of spreading misinformation and conspiring to tarnish Sandeshkhali's image by allegedly bribing locals to fabricate stories. It was a game of money and money only. People were intentionally misled. But lies cannot last forever, she had said. In her first visit to Sandeshkhali since turmoil, CM Mamata Banerjee focuses on peace, harmony and govt schemes The following day, LoP Adhikari countered her by honouring women who, the BJP claimed, had been allegedly tortured by men led by Sheikh Shahjahan, a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader. Shahjahan was arrested earlier this year on allegations of land-grabbing and orchestrating an attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials, along with his associates who were accused of sexually harassing women. During his speech, Adhikari criticised CM Banerjee for allegedly neglecting development in Sandeshkhali and surrounding areas. He accused her of acting like an opposition leader or a newly elected chief minister. [When asked about building a new bridge] she responds vaguely, saying shell see what can be done. Elect the BJP instead, and well ensure the bridge is built with support from the central government, LoP Adhikari said. Throughout his speech, the 54-year-old MLA from Nandigram advocated for "Hindu unity", urging the crowd to ensure that all Hindu voters support the BJP. His remarks carried communal undertones, as he criticised minorities and emphasised the importance of securing victories in Hindu-majority seats. Its possible to win solely with Hindu votes, LoP Adhikari asserted. I proved that in Nandigram during the 2021 Assembly elections, in Contai with my brother, and with Abhijit Ganguly in Tamluk [during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls]. He also highlighted BJP candidate Rekha Patra's lead in the Sandeshkhali assembly segment, despite her loss in the Basirhat parliamentary constituency in this years general elections. The Sandeshkhali controversy, which shook Indian politics ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, began with the attack on Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5 this year. Now, with consecutive rallies by the chief minister and the leader of the opposition in the final days of the year, this remote area in North 24 Parganas has once again returned to the political spotlight. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of a cold wave and fog across North India in the New Year. While cold wave conditions are likely in isolated pockets of Punjab and Haryana till January 2, Jharkhand will also experience a significant drop in temperatures, with the mercury expected to dip by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius over the next two days. The IMD has also predicted fog and low clouds over south J&K, Punjab, south Himachal Pradesh, south Uttarakhand, north & east Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, north Chhattisgarh, north Odisha, Assam, west Meghalaya and Tripura. While the temperatures will remain constant in the Western Himalayan regions, they are expected to drop by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in the central and east Indian states. VIDEO | IMD scientist Naresh Kumar updates on expected weather in north India, he informs, "There is a western disturbance in north Pakistan and adjoining areas, its impact will be there in western Himalayas in next 2-3 days, there would be snowfall. There would be active western pic.twitter.com/qX5ThVryLq Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 31, 2024 In Jammu and Kashmir, the cold wave has intensified with Srinagar city recording minus 3.5 as the minimum temperature on Tuesday. The situation is likely to remain the same for the next four to eight days. From January 1, two Western Disturbances (WD) in quick succession are likely to affect the state and adjoining areas. IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy said that the previous western disturbance had moved away, easing cold wave conditions across north India, though they persist in the western Himalayan region. We had severe weather on December 27-28, followed by cold wave and fog conditions. However, the absence of strong winds has halted the cold wave, transitioning the situation to cold day conditions," Roy added. In Delhi, the weather agency predicted that the temperature will range between 9 and 11 degrees Celsius, with the maximum between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius. It also predicted "shallow fog" on Tuesday. A strong subtropical westerly jet stream with winds up to 278 km/h has been prevailing over northwest India, which has significantly impacted atmospheric conditions. The prolonged dry weather over the last two months, especially in Punjab and Haryana, has also contributed to the cold wave conditions. This also affected the rainfall, with both states receiving only 18 per cent of normal rainfall. The lack of rainfall reduced soil moisture, intensifying the cooling effect during clear nights. Photo: Ukraine is ready to deepen Ukrainian-Lebanese ties through political and economic cooperation, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said after his visit to Lebanon. As part of my Middle East trip, I visited Lebanon. In Beirut, I met with government officials, political, business, and religious leaders, as well as members of the Ukrainian community. We are ready to deepen Ukrainian-Lebanese ties through political and economic cooperation, Sybiha said on X. According to the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Sybiha visited the Lebanese Republic together with Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Vitaliy Koval. The Minister held a separate meeting with the Maronite Patriarch of Antioch, head of the Maronite Church Behara Boutros Rai. The Foreign Minister spoke about the difficult situation in Ukraine and the constant Russian shelling, and expressed gratitude to the Patriarch for his constant attention to the Ukrainian people and prayer for the restoration of a just peace. Sybiha also held talks with head of the Christian party Lebanese Forces, Dr. Samir Geagea, the main topics of which were the joint opposition to the Russian and Iranian regimes seeking to destroy stability in Europe and the Middle East. The key topics of the talks with the Lebanese Minister of Telecommunications were cybersecurity and the experience of digitalization. The parties agreed to develop partnership in these areas. The foreign minister held a separate meeting with the Ukrainian society. He expressed gratitude to the Ukrainians of Lebanon for preserving the Ukrainian identity and culture, defending the positions of our state, and their proactive and strong voice. The minister supported the initiative of the society to establish a Ukrainian cultural center in Lebanon and gave relevant instructions for its early launch. As reported, on December 30, a Ukrainian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha arrived in Damascus on an official visit. Sybiha met with the head of the new Syrian administration and the leader of the Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham movement Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammad al-Julani). The interim government led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Mohammed al-Jolani is leaving no stones unturned to win the trust of the West as he seeks to lift sanctions. The latest such move is appointing Maysaa Sabrine as the governor of the Syrian central bank. HTS, which broke away from al-Qaeda, has been accused of extremism and suppressing women's rights. Many see the latest appointment as HTS' bid to shed its extremist perception. Sabrine succeeds Mohammed Issam Hazime who had been serving in the position since 2021. #Syrian rebel leader Ahmed al-#Sharaa, better known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-#Jolani, called for the lifting of international sanctions in an exclusive interview Monday with a group of foreign journalists that included FRANCE 24s @SimNasr. Here's the details pic.twitter.com/da4cYuyqsE FRANCE 24 English (@France24_en) December 17, 2024 This not the first time that the new regime led by Mohammed al-Jolani aka Ahmed al-Sharaa has picked a woman for a top position. Aisha al-Dibs was earlier appointed to lead the Women's Affairs Office. Who is Maysaa Sabrine? Maysaa Sabrine who has been working at the Syrian central bank for several years has formerly served as its deputy governor and chief of the Office Control Division, according to the official website. She is also a member of the board of directors at the Damascus Securities Exchange. Sabrine completed her master's in accounting from Damascus University. The major challenges that Sabrine will have to tackle will liberalising the economy, ease of imports and exports as well as foreign currecy use. The Syrian central bank reportedly has around 26 tonnes of gold, which is the same amount held in the main vault of the lender before the 2011 civil war. However, foreign currencies have drastically come down from $18 billion to around $200 million. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for a big year, with several ambitious missions that could take Indias space programme to new heights in 2025. From satellite launches to lunar exploration, ISRO is ready to showcase its technological advancements and strengthen its global position in space exploration. In January 2025, the ISRO is set to launch its 100th mission, the NVS-02 satellite. It will be launched using the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). NVS-02 is part of the second generation of satellites for the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which is designed to improve regional navigation services across India and nearby areas. This mission follows the launch of the NVS-01 satellite in May 2023, which weighed 2,232 kg and was placed in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The NVS-01 introduced an indigenous atomic clock and added L1 band signals, helping expand and strengthen NavIC's coverage and capabilities. The NVS-02 satellite is expected to build on this progress, further enhancing India's navigation system. Then there is NISAR, which is a joint mission with NASA. The US agency NASA has already announced that it is working with ISRO to target a launch date for the NISAR satellite in 2025. NISAR, which stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, is a satellite designed to scan nearly all of Earths land and ice surfaces every 12 days. It will gather important data on changes in ecosystems, land and sea ice, and the planets surface. The satellite will be launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, located on Indias southeastern coast. Weighing 2.8 tonnes, the NISAR satellite has been in development since 2014, following an agreement between India and the US. It is a groundbreaking project, costing over Rs 5,800 crore, and will be the first satellite in the world to use dual-frequency radar technology. NASA contributed the L-band radar (1.25 GHz), while ISRO provided the S-band radar (3.20 GHz). Together, these systems will deliver highly accurate data. One of the satellites key componentsa 12-meter radar antenna reflectorproved challenging to develop, causing delays in the mission. Critical parts of the satellite were transported from the US to India in October 2024, marking a major milestone in the project. Despite the setbacks, NISAR aims to provide unmatched precision in monitoring changes on Earth, explained space expert Girish Linganna. ALSO READ: India becomes 4th nation to achieve space docking as ISRO spacecraft gets injected into right orbit The data from NISAR will help people around the world manage natural resources and respond to natural disasters more effectively. It will also help scientists study how fast climate change is happening and its impacts. Additionally, NISAR will provide valuable insights into the Earth's outer layer, known as the crust. One of the major big-ticket missions by ISRO is the Gaganyaan, Indias human spaceflight programme. It aims to send Indian astronauts into space. Two uncrewed test flights are planned in the early part of 2025 followed by Indias first crewed mission in the latter half. This mission will make India the fourth country in the world to independently send humans to space, showcasing Indias growing expertise in human spaceflight technology. Another interesting mission is the GISAT-2. Also called EOS-05, it is an Earth observation satellite scheduled for launch in 2025. It is designed to provide detailed images of the Indian subcontinent, enabling continuous monitoring of the region. The satellite will play a key role in quickly detecting and tracking natural disasters and other hazards. The Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) will see the launch of its first two satellites, IDRSS-1 and IDRSS-2, between 2025 and 2026. These satellites are vital for maintaining real-time communication between spacecraft in low Earth orbit and ground stations. They will be especially important for missions like Gaganyaan, ensuring seamless data transfer during critical operations. Another interesting initiative in India is the ShakthiSAT initiative that is being launched by the Chennai-based aerospace startup Space Kidz on January 15. The aim is to build a spacecraft to be injected into the lunar orbit. This project is a landmark in global collaboration and empowerment. With the involvement of 12,000 girls from 108 countries, it sets a precedent for inclusivity and diversity in the space sector. This mission is not just a technical achievement but a powerful statement of hope, unity, and the limitless potential of young minds. ShakthiSAT underscores the transformative power of space exploration in bringing the world together for a common cause, remarked Srimathy Kesan, founder and CEO of Space Kidz India. Besides some of these missions by ISRO in 2025, the global space industry is witnessing unprecedented achievements and ambitious missions that are reshaping our cosmic endeavors. From the established powerhouses of space exploration to emerging players carving their niche, the year is set to witness extraordinary milestones that will propel humanity further into the final frontier. NASA's Artemis program stands at the forefront of space exploration, with Artemis III preparing to make history by landing the first woman and person of color on the Moon. This milestone mission represents a crucial step toward establishing a sustainable human presence on the lunar surface and eventually reaching Mars. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues to demonstrate its prowess in commercial spaceflight, marked by the successful return of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore aboard the Dragon spacecraft. Under Elon Musk's leadership, the company pushes forward with its Mars colonization goals while developing the revolutionary Starship rocket for deep-space missions and interplanetary travel. Russia's space programme maintains its significance with Luna 26 scheduled to launch in 2025 - 2026. This orbital mission aims to map lunar resources, complementing Russia's broader plans for a lunar base. Meanwhile, Chinas space ambitions reach new heights with the planned launch of Tianwen-3, an ambitious Mars sample return mission. The expansion of China's Tiangong Space Station continues, cementing the nations position in space station technology, while their lunar exploration program targets the Moon's south pole. Europe is not to be overlooked, with the European Space Agency (ESA) advancing its planetary exploration missions. The JUICE (Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer) spacecraft, launched in 2023, will reach Jupiter in 2029, but preparatory observations and developments in 2025 are crucial. Furthermore, the ESAs partnership with NASA on the Mars Sample Return mission emphasizes the collaborative spirit of modern space exploration. The agencys focus on sustainability and green technology for spacecraft propulsion also underscores its commitment to environmentally conscious innovation. Emerging players like the UAE, with their ambitious Mars Hope Probe and lunar missions, and Japans JAXA, with asteroid exploration and lunar endeavours, are expanding the horizons of space science. The UAEs Rashid Rover 2 mission, aimed at lunar exploration, is set to showcase the countrys growing capabilities in space technology. Japans planned MMX (Martian Moons Exploration) mission aims to return samples from Phobos, one of Mars moons, marking a significant milestone in planetary science. South Korea is also advancing its space ambitions with its lunar orbiter programme and plans for further satellite deployments to enhance telecommunications and Earth observation capabilities. Australia, through its Australian Space Agency, is making strides with satellite technology and international partnerships to foster innovation. Canadas contributions to the Lunar Gateway project, particularly its advanced robotics, demonstrate its specialized expertise in space infrastructure. Brazil and Argentina continue to focus on satellite development and Earth observation missions to support environmental monitoring and disaster management in South America. This year, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) carried out a total of 15 missions, showcasing significant strides in both demonstrational and developmental projects. Among these were the commercial launch of the GSAT-N2 satellite, executed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and the groundbreaking launch of the Agnibaan rocket, developed by the aerospace start-up AgniKul Cosmos. Following the successful launch of the PSLV-C60 rocket from Sriharikota on December 30, Union Minister of State for PMO, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh hailed the efforts in the space sector as he fondly recalled the completion of the first halo orbit by Aditya L-1, a spacecraft designed for Indias first solar mission. The Union Minister further discussed the importance of AI and technology in the space sector. Vyommitra, a female humanoid robot designed by the ISRO, is built to serve on the Gaganyaan spacecraft which will carry the crew into space and back to earth. Huge amount of public interest generated by the space achievements has sparked awareness and enthusiasm among the common citizens, Dr Singh pointed out. He noted that the space industry has also generated awareness about biotechnology, CSIR activities and other branches of sciences. Pressing upon the cost-effectiveness of the SpaDeX mission, the Union Minister mentioned both satellites, Chaser and Target, cost merely about Rs 125 crores each. And the launch vehicle cost around Rs 250 crores hardly making a total of Rs 375 crores which is a very small fraction of similar missions undertaken by agencies like NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), he added. The value addition to Indias economy will come from the unexplored or the underexplored sectors, which includes the space sector, Dr Singh emphasized. He further attributed the flourishing space economy to increased participation and eradication of the demarcation between the private and the public sector. According to him, the other aspect is the revenue boost from foreign satellite launches. According to him, the success of the mission, however, wasn't a solo effort. "This mission was also accomplished in collaboration with several other institutions across the country, such as the Tata Institute, the IITs, the Indian Institute of Sciences, and of course, it was ISRO which was doing the launching and carrying out the core work," Dr Singh said. Dr Singh discussed the establishment of Indias second spaceport in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with ISRO preparing to build the new launch site in Kulasekarapattinam, a coastal village within the district. The year 2024 has been remarkable, not only for the ISRO but the entire space sector, and it has laid the foundation of the technological space exploration program in the long run, said Rajeev Jaiswal, associate director at ISROs earth observation division. SpaDeX or Space Docking Experiment is a twin satellite mission to demonstrate rendezvous and docking between these satellites. In space, rendezvous refers to a series of orbital manoeuvres designed to align two spacecraft in the same orbit, whereas their subsequent joining is termed docking. SpaDeX involving two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target) is a precursor technology demonstration mission for the space docking missions planned to be undertaken in future Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan missions. The project is considered a stepping stone toward Space Vision 2047, which envisions India as a leading space power with the launching of Bharatiya Antariksha Station (BAS) by 2035, and achieving a moon landing with indigenous technologies by 2040. Other projects under Space Vision 2047 are Chandrayaan-4, the launch of a low-cost, reusable Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), the Venus Orbiter Mission and other Gaganyaan follow-on programmes. Hundreds of Bangladeshis took out a 'March for Unity' in Dhaka on Tuesday to mark the student-led uprising five months ago. It was the student-led uprising that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and killed over 1,000 people. The protesters chanted slogans against Hasina. The Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group that led the protests, dropped a plan to call for changes to the country's 1972 constitution at the rally after the interim government announced on Monday that it would prepare a proclamation, reported Reuters. According to the students' group, a 'Proclamation of the July Revolution' is essential to honour the sacrifice of the protesters who died or were wounded during the protests. The press office of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, who leads the interim government, said it would seek national consensus on a 'Declaration of the July Uprising', focusing on unity, state reform, and the broader goals of the uprising. On Tuesday, groups of students arrived from across the country and families of those killed in the unrest also joined the rally. "My son Shahriar, a ninth-grade student, was killed (during the protests)," Abul Hasan told the rally. "Our tears will never stop, this pain will never end." The protests were initially sparked by opposition to public sector job quotas. Later, the student-led movement quickly morphed into a broader uprising against Hasina's government. The unrest reached its peak on August 5, when violence forced Hasina to resign and flee to India. Protesters stormed into her official residence and ransacked the place. Over 1,000 people were killed during the protests, marking the country's deadliest period since its 1971 independence war. After Hasinas ouster, an interim government was formed, tasked with restoring stability and preparing for elections. The interim administration includes two representatives of the students. Yunus has said elections could be held by the end of 2025. Russia's Foreign Ministry has clarified why an aircraft from Russia's Rossiya special flight squadron spent two days in the US. As per Flight Radar data, a plane from President Vladimir Putin's Presidential fleet was spotted in New York and Washington last week. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the plane was sent to the US to deliver Russian diplomats as part of a scheduled rotation procedure. The Russian plane's arrival on US soil comes as talks to iron out a deal between President-Elect Donald Trump and Putin gain pace. This triggered speculation online about the flights purpose and whether it could be connected to potential talks between Moscow and Washington. According to the FlightRadar data, an Il-96 with the Rossiya Special Flight Squadron departed from Moscow to St Petersburg on December 25. It arrived in St Petersburg on December 26 before flying to New York. From New York, the plane left for Washington DC. On December 28, the Il-96 left Washington for New York, before flying back to Moscow. The Rossiya Special Flight Squadron is responsible for transporting Putin and "the country's top officials," according to Russian state media. This is the second time that the squadrons planes were deployed this year, when Russia and the US exchanged a total of 26 individuals held in several countries, in the largest prisoner swap of its kind since the Cold War. Russias ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov finished his term last October and the new ambassador has not yet taken charge. Antonov has returned to Moscow and Russian media reported that the post would be held by Russia's former envoy to Canada Aleksandr Darchiev. The Foreign Ministry has not specified when the new ambassador will arrive in Washington. Last week, Zakharova said the new envoy was still in Moscow. The diplomatic relations between both countries worsened after the Ukraine war. Even before that, the relations between the countries were fraught with trouble. In 2017, the US ordered the shutdown of the Russian Consulate in San Francisco, as well as the properties of Russias trade mission in Washington and New York. Moscow has responded by demanding the closure of the American Consulate in St. Petersburg. As family members of those who lost lives in the South Korean plane crash search for answers, a team of US investigators including representatives from Boeing examined the site of the accident. After the task force meeting on Monday, the authorities decided to conduct safety inspections on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by Jeju Air. As many as 179 people onboard Jeju Air's Boeing 737-800 were killed in Sunday's crash. The video of the accident showed that the aircraft landing without its landing gear deployed, crash-landed on its belly and overshot a runaway at Muan International Airport before it burst into a flame. The initial examinations revealed that the pilot had made a 'mayday' call to the ground support team and also reported a bird strike warning. However, the experts pointed out that the landing gear issue was likely the main cause of the crash. While addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Jeju Air CEO Kim E-Bae apologised to the bereaved families and took full responsibility for the incident. However, he also added that no safety issues were flagged in pre-flight checks before the plane took off. "We will repair trust by strengthening the safety measures," said Kim. Jeju Air will be reducing the winter air traffic by 10-15 per cent in order to carry out maintenance work. Also, the airline is preparing emergency compensation for victims' families and will cover funeral costs. Meanwhile, the investigators are analysing the flight data and the cockpit voice recorders recovered from the crash site. The Transport Ministry has identified 175 bodies and is conducting DNA tests to identify the remaining. Amid the political turmoil in South Korea, the bereaved families alleged that the government is failing to provide freezers on time as promised and they expressed their worry over the decomposition of the bodies. New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) Sebi has cleared proposals of six companies, including Leela Palace parent firm Schloss Bangalore, EV player Ather Energy and Oswal Pumps, to launch their initial public offerings. The six companies filed their draft IPO papers with Sebi from September 10 to 23 and obtained the regulator's observations on December 23-27, an update with the markets regulator showed on Monday. The companies are Ivalue Infosolutions Ltd, Ather Energy, Oswal Pumps, Quality Power Electrical Equipments, Fabtech Technologies and Schloss Bangalore Ltd. In Sebi's parlance, obtaining observations means its go-ahead to float public issues. The Rs 5,000-crore proposed IPO of Schloss Bangalore Ltd, which operates Leela Palaces Hotels & Resorts, is a combination of a fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 3,000 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of stocks valued at Rs 2,000 crore by promoter Project Ballet Bangalore Holdings (DIFC) Pvt Ltd. This could be the country's largest IPO in the hospitality sector. Schloss Bangalore, which is backed by Brookfield Asset Management, said proceeds of the fresh issue will be used for repayment of loan availed by the company and its subsidiaries and for general corporate purposes. Schloss Bangalore, known for its luxurious hotels and resorts under "The Leela" brand, had a portfolio of 3,382 keys across 12 operational hotels. As of May 31, 2024, its portfolio includes The Leela Palaces, The Leela Hotels, and The Leela Resorts, located across 10 destinations in the country. Electric two-wheeler maker Ather Energy's proposed IPO is a combination of a fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 3,100 crore and an Offer For Sale (OFS) of 2.2 crore equity shares by promoters and investors shareholders. Those selling shares in the OFS are Caladium Investment Pte Ltd, National Investment and Infrastructure Fund II, 3State Ventures Pte Ltd, IITM Incubation Cell and IITMS Rural Technology and Business Incubator among others. Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used for capital expenditure to establish an electric two-wheeler factory in Maharashtra, investment in research and development, marketing initiatives, repayment of loan and for general corporate purposes. This will be the second electric two-wheeler company looking to go public after Ola Electric Mobility which floated its Rs 6,145-crore IPO in August. This was also the first issue by an automaker in the country in more than 20 years. Ather Energy is a pure-play EV company that designs all its products ground up in India. Since its inception in 2013, the company has focused on product and technology development in India in order to build an E2W ecosystem. Haryana-based Oswal Pumps initial public offering is a mix of fresh issue of equity shares worth Rs 1,000 crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) of up to 1.13 crore equity shares by promoter Vivek Gupta. Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used for funding certain capital expenditures of the company, investment in wholly-owned subsidiary, Oswal Solar in the form of debt or equity, setting up new manufacturing units at Karnal, Haryana, payment of debt, and for general corporate purposes. Oswal Pumps commenced its operations in 2003 by manufacturing low-speed monoblock pumps and over the years, it expanded its operations to manufacture grid-connected high-speed monoblock pumps, grid-connected submersible pumps, and electric motors. Fabtech Technologies -- a turnkey engineering solutions provider for the pharmaceuticals, biotech and healthcare industry proposed IPO is entirely a fresh issue of up to 1.20 crore equity shares. The offer also includes a reservation for a subscription by eligible employees. Fabtech Technologies, part of the Fabtech Group, offers comprehensive start-to-finish solutions encompassing designing, engineering, procurement, installation and testing of select pharmaceutical equipment for a wide range of customers. Private equity firm Creador-backed iValue Infosolutions proposed initial share sale is completely Offer for Sale (OFS) of up to 1.87 crore equity shares by promoters and investor shareholders, according to the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP). Under the OFS, Sundara (Mauritius) Ltd, an affiliate of Creador will offload 1.11 crore equity shares. iValue Infosolutions is an enterprise technology solutions specialist, offering comprehensive, purpose-built solutions for securing and managing digital applications and data. As per the draft papers of Quality Power Electrical Equipments, an energy transmission equipment and power technologies company, comprises a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to Rs 225 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 1.2 crore equity shares. Promoter Chitra Pandyan will offload the shares though the OFS. The Pandyan family holds 100 per cent stake in Sangli-based Quality Power. Caracas (Venezuela), Dec 31 (AP) Venezuela's Supreme Court has issued a USD 10 million fine against TikTok for not implementing measures to prevent viral video challenges that have allegedly led to the deaths of three Venezuelan children recently. Judge Tania D'Amelio said TikTok had acted in a negligent manner and gave it eight days to pay the fine, while also ordering the video service company to open an office in Venezuela that would supervise content so that it complies with local laws. The judge did not explain how Venezuela would force TikTok, whose parent company is based in China, to pay the fine. Venezuela has blocked dozens of websites in previous years for not complying with regulations set by its telecommunications commission. TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press. In November, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blamed TikTok for the death of a 12-year-old girl who allegedly died after participating in a TikTok challenge that involved taking tranquilizer pills and not falling asleep. Venezuela's Education Minister Hector Rodriguez also said last month that a 14-year-old died after taking part in a TikTok challenge that involved sniffing substances. And on November 21, Venezuela's attorney general blamed video challenges on TikTok for the death of a third child. Dozens of radio stations and television channels have been taken off the air in Venezuela under Maduro over their news coverage. More than 60 websites belonging to human rights groups and news companies were blocked at different times this year, according to VE Sin Filtro, a group that tracks media freedoms in the South American country. In August, Venezuela banned the social media platform X as thousands of Venezuelans took to the streets to protest the re-election of Maduro. The Venezuelan government initially banned X for 10 days, after Maduro accused its owner Elon Musk of using the social media platform to orchestrate attacks against Venezuela. Musk had accused Maduro of rigging the July 28 election, which the United Nations and the Carter Center, an organization that monitors elections around the world, said did not meet international standards. X can now be accessed on privately run internet providers in Venezuela, but it is still blocked by Venezuela's state-owned internet provider Movilnet. (AP) RHL RHL Washington, Dec 31 (AP) Her greatest fear, dormant for decades, came rushing back in an instant: had she adopted and raised a kidnapped child? Peg Reif's daughter, adopted from South Korea in the 1980s, had sent her a link to a documentary detailing how the system that made their family was rife with fraud: documents falsified, babies switched, children snatched off the street and sent abroad. Reif wept. She was among more than 120 who contacted The Associated Press this fall, after a series of stories and a documentary made with Frontline exposed how Korea created a baby pipeline, designed to ship children abroad as quickly as possible to meet Western demand. The reporting shook adoption communities around the world with details about how agencies competed for babies pressuring mothers, bribing hospitals, fabricating documents. Most who wrote were adoptees, but some were adoptive parents like Reif, horrified to learn they had supported this system. I can't stand the thought that somebody lost their child, Reif said. I can't stop thinking about it. I don't know how to make it right. I don't know if I can. Forty years ago, she was struggling with infertility. She and her husband pinned their dreams for a family on adopting a baby from Mexico, paid an agency thousands of dollars and waited for months. Then the agency's directors were arrested, and they learned that those Mexican babies had been taken from their families against their will. Reif was heartbroken, but recalls even now looking at her husband and saying: thank God we don't have a child who was stolen. But now she isn't sure of that. Because then they adopted two Korean children, and brought them to their home in rural Wisconsin, first a son and then a daughter. The two were not biological siblings, but both arrived with strangely similar stories in their files: their young unmarried mothers worked in factories with fathers who disappeared after they got pregnant. Back then, Reif still believed the common narrative about foreign adoption: it saved children who might otherwise live the rest of their lives in an orphanage, die or be damned to poverty. I don't believe that anymore, Reif said. I don't know what to believe. Cameron Lee Small, a therapist in Minneapolis whose practice caters to adoptees and their families, said many are feeling an intense sense of betrayal. Individual adoptees had long shared stories of falsified identities. But the revelations this year pointed to systemwide practices that routinely changed babies' origin stories to process adoptions quickly, including listing them as abandoned even when they had known parents. Small, who was also adopted from Korea in the 1980s, summarised what he's been hearing from adoptees: I'm kind of back to nothing. What do I believe now? Who can I believe? Reif's daughter, Jenn Hamilton, spent her life thinking she was unwanted, often quipping: that's what happens when you're found in a dumpster as a baby. It has taken a toll on her all her life: She's been happily married for 9 years, she said, but she has this insatiable insecurity: I constantly find myself asking my husband, are you mad at me? Did I do something wrong?' Do you want to leave me?' She has no idea anymore if abandonment was ever really her story, with revelations of abuses so systemic that even the Korean government likened it to trafficking. You can't make that many mistakes. It has to be intentional. It was this huge tree of deception, she said. I feel disgusted. Holt International, the US-based agency that pioneered adoptions from Korea, did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this story. Reform is sweeping across Europe countries have launched investigations, halted foreign adoptions and apologized to adoptees for failing to protect them. But the United States, which has taken in the most adopted children by far, has not done a review of its own history or culpability. The US State Department told AP this summer that it would work with its historian to piece together its history, and detailed initial findings that some documents might have been falsified. But it said there was no evidence that US officials were aware of it. The State Department has since said that it has been unable to identify any records that could provide insight into the US government role in adoptions from South Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. Korea's National Police Agency confirmed an increase in adoptees registering their DNA for family searches both at domestic police stations and diplomatic offices across North America and Europe in the weeks following the release of the AP stories and documentary in September. More than 120 adoptees registered their DNA in October and November, compared to an average of less than 30 a month from January to August. Korea's government has maintained that adoptions were a necessary tool to care for needy children, including babies of unwed mothers or other children deemed as abandoned. However, Korea's Ministry of Health and Welfare acknowledged to AP that the adoption boom in the 1970s and 80s was possibly fuelled by a desire to reduce welfare costs. Korea's Truth and Reconciliation Commission has been investigating government accountability over foreign adoption problems since 2022, prompted by complaints filed by hundreds of adoptees, and is expected to release an interim report in February. The Commission has posted the AP stories on its website. A law passed in 2023 mandates that all adoption records be transferred from private agencies to a government department called the National Centre for the Rights of the Child by July, to centralise the handling of family search requests. The centre has confirmed that private agencies hold about 170,000 adoption files, but director Chung Ick-Joong doubts it will acquire a space to store and manage all these records in time, due to financial constraints and other challenges. The agency expects family search requests to increase dramatically possibly by 10-fold, according to Chung yet has funding to add only five staff members to its team of six searchers. Chung acknowledged that flaws in adoption laws had persisted for decades, and Korea only required adoptions to go through courts and birth records to be preserved after 2012. It's difficult to determine who was responsible for the inaccuracies in records before then, he said. The adoption agency might have been at fault, the biological parents may have lied, or something might have gone wrong at the orphanage..no one truly knows what the truth is. Korean adoption agencies have mostly declined AP's requests for comment in recent months, often citing privacy concerns. Advocates insist that most adoptive families thrive, with both the parents and children happily living their lives without questioning the industry as Reif and Hamilton have. Hamilton grew up in a rural, almost exclusively white community in Wisconsin, and back then all she wanted was to be accepted. But having children of her own changed that. When her first child was born, she looked at him, and it took her breath away. It can't explain it, like this is the first person I know in my life that I'm biologically related to, she said. She wanted to learn her own history, so her children could know theirs. She wrote a letter to her adoption agency, which within weeks connected her with a woman they said was her mother. It was emotional, shocking. But soon she felt like she had more questions than answers. The woman's name didn't match the one listed on paperwork, and the name she gave for the father was also different. Birthdates didn't match, the birthplace didn't either. They had not met in a factory, she said, they had been pen pals. Hamilton asked the woman to take a DNA test, but she said she didn't know how to access one. Hamilton came to believe this woman was not her birth mother. The AP's reporting found numerous cases where agencies connected adoptees with supposed birth families, only for them to later discover after emotional meetings that they weren't related at all. Hamilton has been trying to untangle the DNA results on her father's side, contacting people distantly related, cousins once removed, half great aunts. It becomes an obsession, Hamilton said. It's like a puzzle that you start, and you have to find the missing pieces. Lynelle Long, the founder of InterCountry Adoptee Voices, the largest organisation of adoptees in the world, said governments at the very least need to legally mandate that agencies provide adoptees with their full and redacted documents, without the payment now often required. Long said parents like Reif have an important role, because in Western countries, laws always favoured the desires of adoptive parents designed to make adoptions quicker and easier. Many clung to the narrative that they saved needy orphans who should be grateful, she said, especially in the US, where the reckoning rocking Europe has not taken hold. We really need adoptive parents in the United States, if they have any inkling of guilt or shame or loss, to step up, take responsibility and demand that legislation be put in place to criminalise these practices and prevent it from ever happening again, Long said. Hamilton is close to her parents; she just renovated the basement to accommodate their visits. She's sad for herself, she said, but she's sadder for her mother, who is desperate to learn if her children actually had parents somewhere, searching for them. And I'm like, 'why, so you can send us back? Hamilton said. I don't want to be a victim. She said she's glad she was adopted, and does not long for that different, alternative life in Korea. Reif loves her children profoundly, she said. But she doesn't think she would adopt from abroad again, if she'd known then what she knows now. I'd rather be childless than think I have somebody else's child that didn't want to give them up, she said. I think of somebody taking my child. Those poor families, I just can't imagine it. (AP) PY PY Shimla, Dec 31 (PTI) It was a year of firsts for Himachal Pradesh, not all positive. The ruling party lost the Rajya Sabha polls, communal tension erupted in Shimla and the state assembly got an MLA couple as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's wife Kamlesh won the Dehra bypoll. Then there were some amusing stories -- the humble samosa triggered a CID probe and the endangered 'jungli murga' had its moment in the spotlight. Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut was elected to the Lok Sabha from Mandi constituency. The state's financial crisis came out in the open when the Himachal Pradesh High Court ordered the attachment of the Himachal Pradesh Bhawan in Delhi after the government failed to pay dues of Rs 150 crore to a hydropower company. In February, Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi lost the Rajya Sabha elections due to cross-voting by six MLAs of the ruling party, triggering a political crisis that briefly left the state government teetering on the edge. This was the first time that a ruling party lost the Rajya Sabha polls despite having a majority. The six Congress MLAs were disqualified by the speaker under the anti-defection law for defying the party whip and abstaining during voting on the annual budget. In June, assembly bypolls were held to fill the seats that fell vacant after the disqualification of the Congress rebels. The Congress retained four of the six seats. Three Independent MLAs also tendered their resignations on March 23 but the speaker accepted them on June 3. Bypolls were held in July to fill the three seats, of which the Congress won two. One of the winning candidates was Kamlesh, the wife of Chief Minister Sukhu. With this, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly got its first MLA couple. The Congress' strength in the 68-member assembly returned to 40, the number of seats it won in the 2022 assembly polls, while the BJP's increased from 25 to 28. In September, violence broke out in Shimla as some locals demanded the demolition of an "illegal" portion of a mosque in the Sanjauli locality. Protesters clashed with security personnel on September 11, breaking barricades and pelting stones as police used water cannons and batons to disperse them. About 10 people, including police and women, were injured in the state's first communal violence. The mosque committee has agreed to demolish the unauthorised storeys and the work is in progress. Cloudbursts and landslides claimed many lives in Himachal Pradesh between June 27 and October 2. A total of 65 people died in cloudbursts. The deadliest cloudburst hit on the night of July 31 when 55 people, including schoolchildren, died in Shimla, Kullu and Mandi districts. Himachal Pradesh witnessed its third driest post-monsoon season since 1901 with 98 per cent rain deficit. Shimla experienced two spells of light snowfall in December after a gap of 10 years. A delay in the payment of salaries and pensions of government employees and pensioners due to the state's financial woes snowballed rapidly. In a jolt to the government, the high court ordered the attachment of the Himachal Bhawan in Delhi's Mandi House in November for the recovery of Rs 150 crore the government owed Seli Hydropower Electrical Company. Days later, a single bench of the high court ordered closure of 18 loss-making units of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. However, the order was stayed by a division bench. Amidst all this, the government faced allegations of financial mismanagement and pushing the state into debt from the opposition. Soon after winning the assembly bypolls, the government took several steps, such as cutting subsidies on water and electricity, increasing GST on diesel and imposing milk cess to increase revenue. The curious case of "missing samosas" sent Himachal Pradesh Police into a tizzy, triggering a political row and a meme fest on social media. It began when three boxes of samosas and cakes meant to be served to Sukhu at a function at the CID headquarters on October 21 ended up being served to his security staff instead. Soon after, a probe was launched into the matter by the CID, which termed the incident "anti-government". The BJP slammed the government, questioning its priorities. Sukhu and his food made headlines again in December when after a video surfaced online purportedly showing him encouraging his associates to eat 'jungli murga' (Grey Jungle fowl) during a dinner in a remote area in Shimla, a charge denied by the chief minister. This time, an FIR was registered against unidentified persons on charges of defamation and spreading false news. Latching on to the issue, the BJP claimed that 'jungli murga' is an endangered species listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022 and hunting or eating it is illegal. A policy for recruiting guest teachers on an hourly basis triggered angry reactions from unemployed youths, political parties and educationists. The state government clarified that it was a temporary arrangement. It said it was recruiting 15,000 teachers across various categories in the Education Department and more than 3,000 had already been appointed. On December 20, the state assembly passed the Himachal Pradesh Ceiling on Land Holdings (Amendment) Bill, 2024, allowing the government to transfer land or structure for religious, spiritual or charitable purposes, subject to a maximum limit of 30 acres. Units of the Defense Forces shot down six missiles and 16 enemy UAVs last night, 24 drones were locally lost; in total, 61 aircraft attacked Ukraine, the press service of the AFU Air Force reported. "As a result of combat work, units of the anti-aircraft missile forces, electronic warfare and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces shot down: one X-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missile; five X-69 guided aircraft missiles; 16 Shahed-type attack UAVs, another 24 simulator drones of various types were locally lost (without negative consequences)," AFU Air Force said on Telegram on Tuesday. It is indicated that due to the Russian attack, there are ballistics hits in Sumy and Kyiv regions. It is reported that on the night of December 31, 2024 (from 20:30 on December 30), the Russian occupiers used 61 means of air attack: six Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles from Voronezh region; one X-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missile from a MiG-31K fighter from the airspace of Tula region.; six X-69 guided aircraft missiles from tactical aircraft from the airspace of Belgorod region; eight X-22 cruise missiles from Tu-22M3 aircraft from the airspace of Tula region.; 40 Shahed-type attack UAVs and other types of simulator UAVs from the directions of Russian Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Bryansk, Millerovo. A court in Serbia on Monday convicted the parents of a teenage boy who last year shot dead nine pupils and a school guard and wounded six more people in a school in central Belgrade. The Higher Court in Belgrade sentenced Vladimir Kecmanovic, father of the boy, to 14 years and six months in prison for grave acts against public safety and for child neglect. The mother, Miljana Kecmanovic was sentenced to three years in prison for child neglect but was acquitted on charges of illegal possession of weapons. The shooter, identified as Kosta Kecmanovic, was 13 years old when he committed the crime and therefore too young to face a trial, according to Serbian law. His parents were detained soon after the shooting and charged for failing to keep the weapons out of reach of their son. The massacre at the Vladislav Ribnikar primary school in central Belgrade on May 3, 2023, shocked the Balkan nation which was used to crises but where mass school shootings had never happened before. The couples lawyer, Irina Borovic, said the verdict came as no surprise because public pressure was enormous and the expectations were huge. Borovic said she will appeal the verdicts. Ninela Radicevic, who lost her daughter in the shooting, said we are not satisfied because no one was held responsible for the murder of nine children and the school guard. The boy used his fathers guns to open fire on his fellow pupils and others. He walked into the school and first opened fire in the hall before heading into a classroom where he continued shooting. Elementary schools in Serbia cater for children 7-15 years old. Police have said that the teenager called them after the shooting and calmly said what he had done. He has been held in a specialized institution since the shooting and testified at his parents trial. The proceedings were closed to the public except for the reading of the verdicts. Also convicted and sentenced to 15 months in prison for a false testimony was a shooting instructor who worked at a shooting ground where the boy practiced shooting. The school shooting was followed the next day by another mass killing in villages outside the capital. Uros Blazic, 21, took an automatic rifle and opened fire at multiple locations, killing nine people and wounding 12. He was sentenced earlier this month to 20 years in prison. The back-to-back shootings triggered a wave of street protests and a crackdown on widespread illegal gun ownership. (AP) A federal judge in Newark ruled Monday that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) can move forward with its $9 congestion toll starting Sunday, January 5, despite objections from New Jersey officials. U.S. District Judge Leo Gordons 72-page decision overwhelmingly sided with the MTA and the U.S. Department of Transportation, dismissing New Jerseys effort to block the first-in-the-nation congestion pricing plan. However, Gordon acknowledged environmental concerns affecting New Jersey communities, ordering further review and raising questions about the fairness of the programs rollout. While the ruling stopped short of issuing an injunction, allowing toll collection to proceed as scheduled, it highlighted discrepancies in how mitigation funds were distributed. The Bronx received specific environmental investments to offset potential impacts, but no similar measures were allocated for New Jersey. MTA Chairman Janno Lieber celebrated the ruling, calling it a green light to begin charging drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street. The decision does not interfere with the programs scheduled implementation this coming Sunday, Lieber said. Gov. Kathy Hochul also praised the outcome, calling it a victory for commuters. Despite New Jerseys best efforts to derail our ability to reduce congestion and invest in public transit, the court sided with us on nearly every issue, Hochul said. She pointed to the reduction of the toll from the initial $15 proposal to $9, calling it a massive win for the region. But across the Hudson, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy painted a different picture. Because of New Jerseys litigation, the judge has ordered a remand, and the MTA therefore cannot proceed with implementing the current congestion pricing proposal on January 5, 2025, Murphy insisted, suggesting that further legal battles could delay or reshape the program. Judge Gordon highlighted a glaring issue in the congestion pricing plan the disparity in how environmental mitigation was handled. The MTA set aside $15 million to replace diesel-powered units at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, $20 million for an asthma care center, and $10 million to install air filtration in Bronx schools near highways. New Jersey, however, received no equivalent investments, despite the likelihood of increased pollution and traffic diversion. Gordon criticized the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the MTA for this imbalance, calling their approach arbitrary and capricious. The FHWA and Project Sponsors provided precise monetary relief for New York while offering no minimum measures for New Jerseys potentially impacted areas, Gordon wrote. The FHWA has until January 17 to address the judges concerns and provide additional environmental mitigation measures. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Interpol recently issued an international arrest warrant for Lev Tahor leader Jonathan Emanuel Cardona Castillo on charges of human trafficking, assault, and child abuse. The Interpol notification was approved by the prosecution in Guatemala and the national civil police. Castillo, who was born in El Salvador and was megayeir via the Lev Tahor cult, is accused of severe child abuse. Sources familiar with the matter say that he is known for his cruelty and is essentially the one doing all the dirty work of the cult. Last August, several survivors of the Lev Tahor cult arrived at the cults compound in Guatemala to try to meet their family members still in the cult and were confronted by Castillo and other cult members. In footage of the scene, one of the survivors can be heard hurling harsh words at Castillo: My mother is being tortured by you. Youre a fool and a criminal. Youre a Salvadoran criminal, your place is in prison. We know about your crimes. Cardona replied: Get out of here, the whole city will come to throw you out. Youre causing a Chillul Hashem. The cult survivor retorted: A Chillul Hashem is for the goyim. Youre a goy and a criminal. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) A military appeals court has ruled against Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins effort to throw out the plea deals reached for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two other defendants in the 9/11 attacks, a U.S. official said. The decision puts back on track the agreements that would have the three men plead guilty to one of the deadliest attacks on the United States in exchange for being spared the possibility of the death penalty. The attacks by al-Qaida killed nearly 3,000 people on Sept. 11, 2001, and helped spur U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq in what the George W. Bush administration called its war on terror. The military appeals court released its ruling Monday night, according to the U.S. official, who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Military prosecutors and defense attorneys for Mohammed, the accused mastermind of the attacks, and two co-defendants reached the plea agreements after two years of government-approved negotiations. The deals were announced late last summer. Supporters of the plea agreements see them as a way of resolving the legally troubled case against the men at the U.S. military commission at Guantanamo Bay naval base in Cuba. Pretrial hearings for Mohammed, Walid bin Attash and Mustafa al-Hawsawi have been underway for more than a decade. Much of the focus of pretrial arguments has been on how torture of the men while in CIA custody in the first years after their detention may taint the overall evidence in the case. Within days of news of the plea deal this summer, Austin issued a brief order saying he was nullifying them. He cited the gravity of the 9/11 attacks in saying that as defense secretary, he should decide on any plea agreements that would spare the defendants the possibility of execution. Defense lawyers said Austin had no legal authority to reject a decision already approved by the Guantanamo courts top authority and said the move amounted to unlawful interference in the case. The military judge hearing the 9/11 case, Air Force Col. Matthew McCall, had agreed that Austin lacked standing to throw out the plea bargains after they were underway. That had set up the Defense Departments appeal to the military appeals court. Austin now has the option of taking his effort to throw out the plea deals to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Separately, the Pentagon said it had repatriated one of the longest-held detainees at the Guantanamo military prison, a Tunisian man who U.S. authorities approved for transfer more than a decade ago. Ridah bin Saleh al-Yazidis return to Tunisia leaves 26 men at Guantanamo. Thats down from a peak population of about 700 Muslim men detained abroad and brought to the prison in the years after the Sept. 11 attacks. Al-Yazidis repatriation leaves 14 men awaiting transfer to other countries after U.S. authorities waived any prosecution and cleared them as security risks. The Biden administration, pressed by rights groups to free remaining Guantanamo detainees held without charge, transferred out three other men this month. The U.S. says it is searching for suitable and stable countries willing to receive the remaining 14. In a statement, the U.S. military said it had worked with authorities in Tunisia for the responsible transfer of al-Yazidi. He had been a prisoner at Guantanamo since 2002, when the U.S. began sending Muslim detainees taken abroad there. Al-Yazidi is the last of a dozen Tunisian men once held at Guantanamo. Of those remaining at Guantanamo, seven including Mohammed and his 9/11 co-defendants face active cases. Two others of the 26 total have been convicted and sentenced by the military commission. (AP) Five anti-Israel activists were arrested for attempting to tunnel through the wall of a factory linked to Israeli defense company Elbit Systems. The incident occurred at the UAV Engines Limited facility in Lichfield, operated by Elbits UK subsidiary. The activists, affiliated with the group Palestine Action, used hammers and chisels to smash bricks while elevated in cherry pickers, according to footage released by the group. To prevent police intervention, the cherry picker cabs were barricaded with barbed wire and metal grates. Videos posted on social media showed police and security observing the vandalism at the facility before officers eventually removed the activists. The five suspects, aged 20 to 60, were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass, criminal damage, and conspiracy to destroy or damage property. The suspects were released on bail as investigations continued, police said. Following their release, Palestine Action shared footage of the activists celebrating with a Palestinian flag and chanting slogans, including From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free. In a statement, Palestine Action said the attack was part of their broader campaign to disrupt Elbit Systems operations in the UK. With over a year of genocide in Gaza and over 76 years of occupation, its up to ordinary people to take direct action to end our complicity, the group posted. The UAV Engines Limited site has been a repeated target for Palestine Action. On November 25, police arrested two older women who had reportedly blocked the factory entrance by locking themselves inside a vehicle. Additionally, Bryn Higgs, 60, was taken into custody on Friday after appearing at North Staffordshire Justice Centre for a separate incident at the factory in July. Higgs faces charges including criminal damage and conspiracy to cause disruption. Palestine Action has vowed to continue targeting facilities linked to Israel, claiming Elbits operations contribute to military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Israeli air defenses successfully intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Yemen, preventing it from entering Israeli airspace, the IDF confirmed Monday night. The missile, believed to have been fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, was shot down before reaching Israel. Sirens echoed across central Israel following the interception, warning of potential debris from the missile. The Houthis have escalated their attacks in recent weeks, launching 11 ballistic missiles and at least nine drones at Israel over the past month. In the latest incident, large fragmentseither from the intercepted missile or the defense systemlanded in the Ramah Alef neighborhood of Beit Shemesh. No injuries or damage were reported. THE SCENE AT BEN GURION AIRPORT: (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Hamas has rejected Israels demands for the full release of 34 hostages as part of a ceasefire deal, agreeing to release only 22 of the individuals Israel insists must return home during the first phase, according to reports by Kan public broadcaster. Instead, Hamas reportedly offered to hand over 22 living hostages and 12 bodies a proposal Israel swiftly rejected, reiterating that only the release of living hostages would be acceptable in the initial stage of negotiations. Israel has remained steadfast in its position, saying that securing the safe return of its citizens is a non-negotiable priority. Reports suggest that Hamass refusal may stem from Israels request for the inclusion of 11 men, whom the terror group falsely classifies as soldiers simply because they are of fighting age. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will resume military operations in Gaza following any potential hostage deal, Channel 12 reported Monday. During a high-level meeting last week, Netanyahu reportedly said, If there is a deal and I hope there will be Israel will return to fighting afterward. There is no point in pretending otherwise because returning to fighting is needed in order to complete the goals of the war. Saying this does not thwart a deal, it encourages a deal. Netanyahus remarks have reportedly raised concerns among members of the hostage negotiation team, who fear that publicly signaling an intention to resume fighting could jeopardize ongoing negotiations. Hamas has maintained that any hostage release must be tied to a permanent ceasefire, a condition Israel has rejected. The Prime Ministers comments mirror statements from a senior Israeli official who told Ynet that even if Israel agrees to a deal, it will resume operations to achieve its war objectives. Security officials have warned that failing to develop a post-war governance plan for Gaza could lead to Hamas regaining full control, undermining the gains made by the IDF since the war began. The security establishment has consistently urged Netanyahu to consider involving the Palestinian Authority (PA) in Gazas governance as part of a broader strategy to weaken Hamass influence. Netanyahu has rejected this, equating the PAs support for a two-state solution to Hamass ideology. Despite Netanyahus directives to develop a strategy that limits Hamass control over humanitarian aid a critical lever of power in Gaza progress has stalled. Efforts to involve foreign security contractors to safeguard aid convoys have also faltered due to funding shortages and the absence of international buy-in. Hopes that countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) might fund such initiatives have been dashed, with Abu Dhabi insisting that any involvement in Gazas reconstruction must include a reformed PA and a pathway to a two-state solution. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The IDF, in coordination with the Shin Bet, announced the elimination of Abd al-Hadi Sabah, a senior Hamas commander involved in the infiltration of Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7th massacre. Sabah, identified as a Nukhba Platoon Commander in Hamass Western Khan Yunis Battalion, was killed in a targeted airstrike by the Israeli Air Force (IAF) based on intelligence gathered by the IDF and Shin Bet. The strike targeted Sabah while he was operating from a shelter in the humanitarian area of Khan Yunis. Sabah was reportedly instrumental in planning and leading numerous attacks against IDF troops during the ongoing conflict. The IDF emphasized that all precautions were taken to minimize harm to civilians, employing precision munitions, detailed intelligence, and aerial surveillance to ensure the accuracy of the operation. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Looking for a structured program that will give you the tools and resources you need to get Smicha? Hilchos Shabbos? Dayanus? Chuppah vKiddushin? Join Machon Smicha, the premier halachah institute serving the English-speaking Torah community. Machon Smicha is a unique, online, halacha-learning program that makes learning, getting tested and receiving smicha possible. We offer rigorous and structured learning programs in halachah across a broad spectrum of topics, which enables learners to grow and succeed in their Torah learning, from the novice to the scholar. Be empowered to learn Shulchan Aruch like never before, from the Mishnah and Gemara all the way to contemporary Poskim and Minhagim. Our programs include: Smicha: Achieve your dream of finally receiving smicha in a program that will empower you to succeed, Shabbos: Learn and master Hilchos Shabbos, from the original sources down to their practical application Chuppah vKiddushin: Become proficient in the halachos of weddings and marriage, and become equipped to be a mesader kiddushin. Dayanus: Dive deep into the halachos of beis din, halachic litigation, business, and interpersonal responsibility. Machon Smicha offers each student a complete curriculum, consisting of: Online portal with access to all the program content. Flexible schedule. Shiurim. English Study Guide, containing introductions, overviews, translations, and in-depth summaries of every halachah. Access to forums and teachers for questions, discussions, etc. Rabbi and teachers available to answer questions and aid in the learning. Quizzes, review material, and mock tests. Tests with prominent rabbis. Signed certificate for those who successfully complete the program. Machon Smichas next semester begins on January 5th, 2025 (5 Teves 5785 ) To learn more, or to apply, visit onlinemachon.com. Energy bills may have fallen from the record highs seen in 2021, but households are still paying an average of 1,717 a year for gas and electricity, with bills set to rise during 2025. That 1,717 figure is the typical level of the Ofgem price cap, which sets energy bills for 27million homes - around 90 per cent of households in the country. That rate applies to a home with average energy use, on a variable-rate energy tariff and paying by direct debit. The immediate future of energy bills is upwards, as the price cap is set to increase in the new year. But what is the future of energy bills throughout 2025, and when can hard-up households expect to see prices finally fall? Peaks and troughs: How Ofgem's energy price cap has changed since 2019 How much will energy bills rise in 2025? The typical energy bill will rise by 1.2 per cent on 1 January to 1,738, according to regulator Ofgem. That rate will last for three months, until the price cap is reset again in April and October. Ofgem does not make predictions about the future of the price cap. However, experts at Cornwall Insight do. Cornwall thinks the average bill will rise to 1,785 from April 2025, or nearly 3 per cent. Of this, 904.61 would go on electricity and 880.29 on gas, for typical use. Cornwall initially thought bills would rise to 1,762 in April 2025, an increase of 2.6 per cent, but revised its forecase upwards slightly on 31 December 2024. The April energy bill rise would reflect turbulence in energy markets, the uncertainty of a Trump presidency in the US and the extra cost of regulatory change to gas and electricity in the UK, Cornwall said. Later in the year, Cornwall Insight thinks the price cap will 'drop slightly' in October 2025, but has not published exact predictions. Energy firm EDF believes the typical price-capped bill will rise to 1,754 in April, an increase of 1 per cent. Elise Melville, energy expert at Uswitch, said: 'The sudden change from a 1 per cent to 3 per cent increase in the April price cap prediction suggests that energy prices will remain uncertain into next year.' Why are energy bills so high? There is a complicated web of reasons why energy prices are so much higher than they once were. The main culprit was the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which led to energy prices spiking. Russian supplies a large part of Europe's gas, oil and coal, and concerns about availability sent prices rocketing. While the UK did not import much fuel directly from Russia (around 4 per cent of gas use in 2021), it does import about 40 per cent of its energy. The UK was then forced to buy this energy on the open market against competitor countries, driving the price up for everyone. The high cost of buying wholesale energy then led dozens of UK energy firms to collapse. These firms were forced to sell energy to consumers at far less than it cost them to buy it, thanks to most homes having fixed-rate energy bills. Not only did new fixed-rate energy deals entirely vanish, but the cost of all the failed energy companies was factored in to all energy bills. Since then, regulation by Ofgem has also played a part in keeping bills high. This includes a ban on energy firms undercutting each other on price and delaying smart meter reforms. The cost of electricity is also pushed up by a pricing system called 'marginal pricing', that often sees the cost of all power charged at the higher cost of gas rather than the cheaper cost of renewable energy. The way electricity works in the UK is like a market. At the start of the day, all electricity providers - renewable energy, nuclear and gas - work out how much it will cost them to produce a single unit of electricity. This resetting then happens every half an hour. Those estimates are then matched to consumer demand, and the sources with the cheapest prices are told to start generating electricty first. In practice, that normally means renewable energy like wind and solar power goes first, then nuclear, then gas. That is because renewable energy is far cheaper to generate, provided the sun shines and wind blows. The problem with marginal pricing is that if any gas is used, then all wholesale electricity sold is priced at the higher rate of gas, regardless of how much it cost to generate or how much gas is being used to generate electricity. Even if only 5 per cent of the UK's electricity comes from gas power stations at any given moment, the price of that gas is used to set the wholesale price for the remaining 95 per cent of electricity. When electricity companies then buy that wholesale power and sell it to consumers, this is one of the things that inflates the final cost - and the price of consumer electricity bills. When will energy bills fall? Energy bills are unlikely to go back to historic norms for years, Cornwall Insight thinks - perhaps until the end of the decade. The firm thinks energy prices will not change much until 2027/28, and will then start to fall off, due to more renewable energy being rolled out. Can I take out a fixed rate energy deal and save money? Households may be able to beat the cap and save money by taking out a fixed-rate energy deal. At the moment, most energy deals are variable. That means they change price, normally four times a year when Ofgem adjusts its price cap. Fixed rates, as the name suggests, offer set prices for unit rates (the energy used) and standing charges (daily fees paid regardless of any energy used). Before the energy crisis of 2021, most energy deals were fixed rate, with variable rates reserved for homes that had fallen off a fixed deal and not taken out a new one. But fixed rate deals have made something of a comeback, and if you can find one cheaper than the price cap then you can save money on your energy bills. Top five cheapest fixed energy deals Energy firm Deal Term Price Saving vs Jan price cap Exit fees Outfox The Market Fixed Dual Jan25 v1 12 months 1,659 79 25 per fuel Outfox The Market 18-Month Fixed Dual Jan25 v2 18 months 1,670 68 25 per fuel EDF Energy Simply Fixed 1-year Jan 26 v8 Until 31 Jan 2026 1,673 65 25 per fuel EDF Energy Simply Fixed 2-year Jan27 v4 Until 31 Jan 2027 1,603 65 75 per fuel E.ON next Next Fixed 18m v14 18 months 1,675 63 50 per fuel Source: Uswitch Not all households will be eligible for a fixed rate deal, and the exact price paid will vary on energy usage. Additionally, many cheaper fixed rate energy deals are not available on the open market and are offered to customers directly by their energy firm. Energy firms are free to sell these fixes to their own customers only, without disclosing these rates to the wider world. If your energy firm contacts you about an exclusive fixed rate, check how it compares in price to what you pay now and what you'd pay in January when the price cap changes. The European Commission has reiterated that the European Union is prepared for the potential halt of Russian gas transit through Ukraine starting January 1, 2025. The Commission confirmed that alternative supply routes for non-Russian gas are available. This statement was made on Tuesday in Brussels, responding to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's open letter dated December 29 to European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urging immediate action following Ukraine's decision to stop gas transit to Europe. "The stop of flow via Ukraine on 1 January is the expected situation and the EU is prepared for it. The Commission, in coordination with the Member States, has been working for more than a year specifically on preparing for a scenario without Russian gas transiting via Ukraine as of 1 January 2025 and on ensuring that alternative supplies are available for the impacted Member States," the Commission stated. Additionally, the European Commission noted that the EU's gas infrastructure is flexible enough to provide gas of non-Russian origin to Central and Eastern Europe via alternative routes. "It has been reinforced with significant new LNG import capacities since 2022. Security of gas supply architecture of the EU has been reinforced in the last couple of years, including with energy efficiency measures and renewables development," the Commission detailed. The European Council has yet to provide a comment on the matter. Earlier, in response to Ukraine's decision to halt Russian gas transit, part of which supplies Slovakia, Prime Minister Fico threatened to cut electricity deliveries to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested that "it seems Putin has instructed Fico to open a second energy front against Ukraine at the expense of the Slovak people." Slovakia's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs rejected these accusations on December 30, issuing a statement on the social platform X: ""The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic is closely monitoring the statements from the Ukrainian side regarding remarks made by the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico. These reactions are perceived as exaggerated. We firmly reject any unfounded claims about the opening of a 'second energy front,' as speculated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as fabricated accusations of any alliance with Vladimir Putin." The statement further emphasized that the Slovak government has a duty to defend primarily the strategic interests of Slovakia, its citizens, and the European Union: " It will act accordingly, regardless of whether the Ukrainian side approves or not..." Several parcel deliveries have gone missing, an elderly relative has gifted you a hideous scarf, and you just dont love the dress you bought online when you see it in the flesh. The lazy days after Christmas bring plenty of shopping hassles, and many retailers make it tricky for consumers to return unwanted presents or track down those that have gone walkabout. As a consumer rights expert, Im here to tell you that all these frustrations can be resolved with a little insider know-how up your sleeve. Heres how to have a hassle-free Twixmas and end up with the gifts you really want (or a lovely cash refund) this year... I DONT LIKE THE GIFT, CAN I GET A REFUND? Not for the first time, Aunty Gill has bought you a frumpy jumper for Christmas. Weve all been there feigning gratitude whilst secretly wondering how to turn that unwanted present into something that matches your taste. If your aunt didnt wrap a receipt with your present, youll be relying on a retailers goodwill. So before you head to your nearest store to hand back the jumper, investigate the seller's returns policy online. Its better to go in-store as sometimes only the buyer can request a refund or exchange online. Also, online returns often go missing in transit, particularly at this time of year. Many retailers extend return times over Christmas and have generous policies its useful to have a screenshot of a returns policy on your phone as many seasonal staff may not be familiar with store protocol. Weve all been there, feigning gratitude whilst secretly wondering how to turn that unwanted present into something that matches your taste (picture posed by model) Treating people with kindness and being polite goes a long way. Shop staff are under a lot of stress at this time of year, with reports of abuse at an all-time high. What to say to the retailer: It always pays to be pleasant and cheerful with staff in the store. Speak to them nicely and theyre more likely to be flexible and offer you a refund, exchange or credit note but youre still bound by that retailers policy. Unfortunately, if the item has dropped in price for the sales and you dont have a receipt, the shop will only honour its current value. You could sell unwanted gifts online via an auction website, local neighbourhood groups or on Facebook Marketplace; regift it or donate it to your favourite charity. Aunty Gill need never know... MY NEW GADGET IS ALREADY BROKEN If a coveted gift youve received is faulty, youre probably going to have to ask the person who gave it to you if they can help you as they will have proof of purchase. If goods are faulty, youre entitled to a full refund within the first 30 days of purchase under section 22 of the Consumer Rights Act (CRA) 2015 this law will be your secret weapon in so many wrangles with retailers. The only exception is if your items were clearly highlighted as being slightly damaged when you bought them. What to say to the retailer: The onus is on you to prove the fault, so go prepared to make your case. And you will still need proof of purchase. No receipt? A bank or credit card statement proving where the item was bought should suffice. It always pays to be pleasant with staff in store. Speak to them nicely and theyre more likely to be flexible and offer you a refund, exchange or credit note, writes consumer expert Scott Dixon I BOUGHT GIFTS ONLINE. CAN I CHANGE MY MIND? Buying online gives you better cover than purchasing in a physical shop, because its known as a distance sale under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013. This gives you the right to cancel an order within 14 days of placing it, and to return it within 14 days of receiving it. Thankfully, many retailers also extend the period in which you can return an item at this time of year. This doesnt apply if you buy bespoke items, such as a personalised bracelet, or perishables like food hampers containing fresh items. That is whats known as tough luck, unless theyre faulty. If youve changed your mind on other items, you may have to pay the returns fee depending on the stores policy. What to say to the retailer: If youve ordered an item online proof of purchase is all thats required, which could be your order number, bank or credit card statement. Theres usually an option along the lines of no longer wanted or item not as expected when you complete your returns form. IVE BEEN A VICTIM OF PORCH PIRATES As the song lyrics go, its the most wonderful time of the year especially for porch pirates, criminals who follow couriers around and then steal parcels left on doorsteps when the homeowner is out. If youre a victim, the first thing to remember is its the retailers legal obligation to resolve any delivery issues, not the couriers. I told you the CRA 2015 would be your best friend it states that goods remain the traders risk until theyve been safely delivered to either the consumer or a person theyve nominated to take the delivery. Thankfully, many retailers extend the period in which you can return an item at this time of year (picture posed by model) What to say to the retailer: Contact them as soon as you realise the parcel has been taken and remind them that they are obliged to resolve the issue as your contract is with them, not the courier. If the courier ignored your instructions, for example if you asked them to leave the parcel with a neighbour but they instead left it outside, where it was stolen, then the retailer must dispatch a new item or give you a full refund. Remind them that if your designated neighbour isnt at home, the driver is supposed to put the parcel back in the van and issue a redelivery instruction. MY DELIVERY HASNT ARRIVED BUT THE RETAILER AND COURIER WONT HELP Delivery companies are notorious for sending emails or texts saying theyve attempted to deliver a parcel, yet youve seen no sign of a driver at your door and they havent left a calling card. Have the Christmas elves run off with your parcel? More likely, the driver couldnt find your address or fit the delivery into their tightly timed targets that day, so it was easier to pretend theyd tried to deliver it. In this case, as with porch pirates, your contract is with the retailer, so try them first. What to say to the retailer: Remind them that they are obliged by law to deliver goods safely into your possession. If theyre unwilling or unable to resolve the issue, or they claim theyll need to wait for the courier company to officially log an item as missing (a common response), explain that theyre in breach of contract in accordance with the CRA 2015 and that you will get your bank to raise whats called a chargeback to get the payment you made reversed. This is a strong tactic to use if theyre stonewalling you, because chargebacks are an administrative pain for retailers so theyll want to try and resolve the problem without going down that route. You may need to be militant, spelling it out to the retailer that the courier company they use is giving them a bad name with consumers such as you. ONLY HALF OF MY ORDER TURNED UP Lamp arrived without its base, or a pool table for the kids without its legs? This would never have happened on Santas watch. What to say to the retailer: Once again, use the trusty Consumer Rights Act 2015. If youve placed an order and didnt agree to accept the delivery of the goods in instalments, theyre in breach of contract. They must either supply the missing parts immediately or you can reject and cancel the order and raise a chargeback with your bank to dispute and reverse the transaction. Banks often try to reject a chargeback on the first attempt but legally, the onus is on the retailer to prove they did deliver the items. So push back hard, and stress breach of contract under the CRA 2015 if this happens to you. This also applies to online food deliveries. So if youve placed a big food shop and some of it hasnt arrived, or theyve put in unwanted substitutes, you dont have to accept them and are entitled to a full refund for the items that werent sent. Former HSBC boss Noel Quinn, ex-Rolls-Royce chief executive Warren East and Darktrace founder Poppy Gustafsson are among the business leaders handed gongs in the New Years Honours list. Quinn has been knighted in recognition of his contribution to financial services and net zero. The HSBC veteran, who worked for the bank for 37 years, shocked the City when he stepped down from the top job this year after taking the reins in 2020. He oversaw a transformation of the lender that included cutting 35,000 jobs and propelling it to record profits last year. And he fought off an attempt by Chinese insurer Ping An, a major shareholder, to break up the 159-year-old bank. Announcing his retirement in April, Quinn, 62, said he would have a period of rest and relaxation before moving to a portfolio career, which means taking up a number of directorships in boardrooms. Cyber services: Poppy Gustafsson, who had already been awarded an OBE in 2019, was yesterday handed a CBE for services to the cyber security industry East, who led Rolls-Royce for seven-and-a-half turbulent years, has been knighted for services to the economy and to net zero. He was awarded a CBE in 2014. His tenure at the engineering firm included the Covid-19 pandemic, which dealt a hammer blow to the aircraft engine makers finances. East, who was previously the chief executive of computer chipmaker Arm, also led the business through a major corruption investigation related to fraud that occurred before he joined. The businessman, 63, quit in 2022, saying it was the right time for him to leave, as Rolls-Royce was at an intersection point. Since then, he has been appointed chairman of UK air traffic services provider NATS and is on the board of semiconductor firm ASML. Gustafsson, who was awarded an OBE in 2019, was yesterday handed a CBE for services to the cyber security industry. She co-founded Cambridge-headquartered Darktrace, which uses artificial intelligence in software to protect organisations against online threats, in 2013. Gustafsson began Darktrace following a two-year stint at Autonomy, the tech company led by the late British billionaire Mike Lynch. She served as chief executive until September, when she stepped down ahead of a 4bn private equity takeover of the firm. The following month, Gustafsson one of the best-known figures in the UK technology sector was appointed to Government as Minister for Investment. Other City figures recognised in the annual awards include engineering firm Babcocks chair Ruth Cairnie, who becomes a dame, and investment manager M&Gs chairman Edward Braham, who is being knighted. London Stock Exchange Group chairman Don Robert has been awarded a CBE. Richard Price, managing director at Marks & Spencer where he oversees its clothing, home and beauty ranges, has been made an MBE. Rachel Reeves has been urged to rule out a further tax raid on pensions for the rest of this Parliament to avoid a repeat of the panic over her first Budget. In a powerful intervention on behalf of those saving for retirement, ex-pensions ministers lined up with industry chiefs to seek reassurance from the Chancellor. They told the Mail certainty was needed after rumours of tax changes in Labours first Budget for 14 years triggered a rush to withdraw cash from pensions. Former pensions minister Steve Webb said constant speculation about changes to pension taxes was highly damaging. And writing in the Mail, AJ Bell chief executive Michael Summersgill called on Reeves to commit to a Pensions Tax Lock that promises not to mess with the fundamentals of the pension tax system in this Parliament. Ahead of the Budget in October, speculation mounted that Reeves was planning a tax raid on pension pots as she struggled to make her numbers add up. Under fire: Chancellor Rachel Reeves (pictured) has been urged to rule out a further tax raid on pensions for the rest of this Parliament Among the options were cutting tax relief on the pension contributions of higher earners and slashing the amount savers can withdraw tax-free at the age of 55 from 268,275 to 100,000. The threat to the tax-free lump sum proved particularly damaging as savers rushed to withdraw cash from their pension pots, despite warnings it would leave them worse off in retirement. Reeves finally decided against such a move but instead introduced a new death duty by dragging pension pots into inheritance tax for the first time. She is now under pressure to rule out further changes giving savers the certainty they need to plan for their retirement. Ros Altmann, another ex-pensions minister, said: The Chancellor needs to think carefully about the damage done to make sure she doesnt do any more. Webb, now a partner at pension consultants LCP, called on Reeves to confirm that the pension tax relief system will be left alone for the next five years. He added: This would create a welcome period of stability. The constant speculation about changes to pension tax relief is highly damaging and even led some people to make poor financial decisions in the run-up to the October Budget for fear of what might be about to change. Richard Wilson, head of Interactive Investor, said: Constant speculation around pension tax relief hampers peoples ability to plan and save, and can lead to panic decision-making. A firm commitment that tax reliefs are to be protected would provide welcome stability when we should be doing everything we can to encourage more people to save and invest for their future. Mark FitzPatrick, head of St Jamess Place, said: Bringing pensions into inheritance tax will have been a shock to many. 'We need to avoid further changes to pension tax and relief, or we risk damaging the reputation of the UKs most widely known and stable long-term investment vehicle. The last Premium Bonds draw was the first one Ive been involved in and I scooped a 100 prize. However, the prize didnt arrive in my current account right away. How quickly should a prize come through? And would it make a difference if it was a bigger prize? At the same time, I have also opened Income Bonds with NS&I for the monthly interest. How quickly should that payment reach my current account? Helen Kirrane of This is Money replies: Congratulations on your first time lucky win. Premium Bonds holders can choose to have prizes paid by bank transfer directly into a current account, by cheque or reinvest the prizes so they go into the next prize draw. Depending on which option a saver chooses, it could take National Savings and Investments longer to pay out a prize. Income Bonds is NS&I's easy-access account which pays interest monthly directly to your bank account. For expert advice on your question, we asked Rachel Springall, finance expert at Moneyfacts Compare, James Blower, founder of website Savings Guru and Anna Bowes, savings expert at the Private Office. Our reader had their first Premium Bonds prize win and wanted to know when the prize money would arrive Rachel Springall replies: NS&I stipulate that Premium Bond winners should receive prize money by the seventh working day of the month, so its not instant. Those who prefer to receive a cheque will need to wait for it to come through the post, which will take longer than a direct payment. The Income Bonds with NS&I pay interest monthly, on the fifth of each month, so if someone relies on their interest to supplement their income it is essential they keep this in mind and make a diary note. James Blower replies: Winners of Premium Bonds prizes have three choices with their winnings. They can have them paid out by bank transfer, by cheque or reinvest them. If they choose to pay out by bank transfer then NS&I will do this by the seventh working day of the month so realistically this will be on the ninth or 10th of the month. This will explain why your reader had a delay in receiving their prize. If winners choose to be paid by cheque then it will be a bit longer for them to receive this more likely to be towards the middle of the month. Those who opt for reinvestment will automatically go in to the next months draw. Anna Bowes replies: The interest on the Income Bonds is paid on the fifth of each month or the next working day if the fifth is a weekend or bank holiday. What if you win a big prize? Anna Bowes replies: If you win a prize of 25,000 or more, NS&I will send you a claim form, that you must complete and send back before they can pay you the prize. Claim forms are sent on the third working day of the month. If youre lucky enough to scoop the 1million jackpot, NS&Is Agent Million will visit you in person to give you the good news. Remember to ask for their ID before you celebrate theyll always have it ready to show you. You would be asked for your preferences for where you want the money to go, and then they will check with you the following day once youve had a chance to sleep on it. This month visits were made on Sunday, 1 December, and NS&I had opened Direct Saver accounts and deposited the money by Monday afternoon. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved a pilot project for 2025 on temporary accommodation and support for certain categories of persons in difficult life circumstances from among internally displaced persons (IDPs). As reported by Cabinet of Ministers representative in the Verkhovna Rada Taras Melnychuk on the Telegram channel, the corresponding decision was made at a government meeting on Tuesday. In particular, the proposal of the Ministry of Social Policy on the implementation from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 of a pilot project on temporary accommodation and support for certain categories of persons in difficult life circumstances from among internally displaced persons and the provision of certain social services to them was approved. It is noted that the goal of the project is to develop a mechanism to help individuals in difficult life circumstances overcome such circumstances by providing them with temporary accommodation and support through the provision of individual social services, and for those of working age among them - by facilitating their employment in cooperation with the State Employment Service. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/minenergoUkraine Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal says that despite dozens of Russian attacks on the Ukrainian energy sector, the country has survived and maintained the integrity of the system in 2024. "Despite dozens of Russian attacks on the energy sector, we have survived and maintained the integrity of the system. We have launched a large-scale restoration campaign. More than EUR 1 billion in contributions from partners has been attracted to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund. We are using these funds to buy equipment and return light and heat to people's homes," Shmyhal said at a government meeting on Tuesday. The prime minister said that in 2024, the possibility of importing electricity from Europe was expanded from 1.7 GW to 2.1 GW, which helps balance the energy system. "We have introduced an energy support package for citizens and businesses. Interest-free loans for individuals, loans for condominiums, housing cooperatives, for small and medium-sized businesses, preferential loans for large entrepreneurs. We are building decentralized energy as an important part of the post-war energy system," Shmyhal emphasized. It was the end of the road for a sixteen year old boy in Bandon, Co. Cork as he was stopped by gardai while on a charity drive. In a post on An Garda Siochana Cork's Facebook profile, gardai explained that the Cork County Road Policing Unit based in Bandon had stopped a tractor and the tax was checked. The Garda mobility device showed it had expired by 2,919 days or eight years. The Annual Agricultural tractor motor rate is 102 a year. Members of the public have shared mixed reactions the update, one person said: "Eight years without tax? Surely a remarkable oversight, both by the owner and the authorities. How is it possible that a vehicle, often operating on public roads, escaped notice for nearly a decade? Isn't it the Gardai's role to enforce these regulations consistently?" READ MORE: ALERT: Have you seen Asadullah? Gardai in urgent appeal for missing teen Another commented: "Probably just a farm tractor out for the day of the tractor run to help raise more money for a good cause. Probably wouldn't tax it for the one day of the year it's on the road." Another person said: "To all the apologists once again trying to justify the illegal behaviour of those on our roads. This was THE ROAD POLICING UNIT this is literally their job! So stop making bullshit excuses for illegal road users and stop asking them to solve real crime." Some 850 Azov fighters have been in the most difficult conditions in Russian captivity for more than two and a half years, commander of the 12th special forces brigade Azov Colonel Denys Prokopenko (Redis) reported. "Behind every repelled enemy attack and every recaptured meter of Ukrainian land is the sweat, blood and life of our fighters. Thanks to their decisive actions, Ukraine celebrates its new year in free Ukrainian cities. This opportunity is denied to 850 Azov fighters, who have been in the most difficult conditions in Russian captivity for more than two and a half years," Redis wrote on Facebook. He pointed out that through the joint efforts of various departments, 169 Azov comrades were returned from captivity in 2024. "Next year, we will continue to do everything to get all our prisoners out the hell of Russian prisons," Prokopenko emphasized. He also recalled that this year, Azov managed to overcome a long-standing ban on receiving weapons from the United States. "However, bureaucratic delays have somewhat slowed down the results of a tangible blow to Russian propaganda. The personnel of Azov and I personally hope that in 2025 the brigade will finally receive the weapons that it deserves like no other," the brigade commander pointed out. "Today, the Ukrainian and global media space is saturated with confidence that the war in Ukraine will end in 2025. This conviction harms both the front and the rear," Redis noted. According to him, this confidence gives "an illusion, calms and relaxes in a situation where relaxing means losing the state and independence." "If the forecasts do not come true, our society will face a grave disappointment, which will hit the country's defense capability. This should not be allowed under any circumstances," he added. In addition, as Prokopenko pointed out, any security guarantees that Ukraine may receive do not mean that Ukrainians will be able to shift responsibility for the country's defense onto the shoulders of others. "But even if the hostilities cease in 2025, the war will not disappear. It will look at us through the eyes of our fallen brothers, remind us of itself with the ruins of Ukrainian cities, will be there in the tears of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian families who have lost the most. And it will breathe down our necks with the very fact of the existence of an enemy on our borders, who will never give up his intention to occupy Ukraine," Redis is sure. According to him, this means that Ukraine will have no choice but to continue reforming the army, building up its military-industrial complex and preparing. "Because next time the occupier will come even stronger and even better prepared," he concluded. Right now we double back to a tragic story that garnered a great deal of interest yesterday. The question from AWESOME TKC READERS and insiders who we trust: HOW CAN KANSAS CITY PREVENT DEATHS OF INNOCENT PEOPLE AS SIDESHOWS & STREET RACING CONTINUES TO DOMINATE LOCAL ROADS?!? City hall has increased fines but the trend continues. Even worse, the idea that streetscaping will prevent tragedy is farcical at best and REALLY just a way to route more taxpayer cash to local special interests who peddle this type of "green" construction scam. Put simply, speed bumps are great but they aren't really any match for lawlessness on local streets. To be fair . . . Street racing & sideshows are a nationwide problem and online we've seen evidence of this treacherous trend in the suburbs and rural areas as well. However . . . This time around two innocent people were killed because street racing in KCMO seems out of control. Accordingly . . . We share our question for readers and more info on this latest incident . . . Check-it: "When asked if charges have been filed against the drivers of the two vehicles that were racing, a KCPD spokesperson said detectives are working closely with prosecutors to determine any applicable charges. "The victims deaths are KCPDs 96th and 97th crash fatalities of 2024." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . In this post we want to share deets on an important change underway in local politics and law enforcement . . . Our main takeaway from this latest note is that the new administration is looking to shake up the status quo at the prosecutor's office as she promised during her campaign. Also . . . We notice that election winner is already starting to take some criticism. However, longtime local voters understand this office has ALWAYS engendered strong reactions. Accordingly . . . Here's the note sent to local media and www.TonysKansasCity.com . . . Prosecutor-Elect Melesa Johnson to be Sworn in as First African-American Jackson County Prosecutor Prosecutor-elect Melesa Johnson will be sworn in as Jackson County Prosecutor on Friday, January 3, marking a historic milestone as the first African American to hold the position. Prosecutor-elect Johnsons career spans significant roles in prosecution, litigation, and public safety leadership. She previously served as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Jackson County Prosecutors Office, clerked for U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr., practiced at two nationally recognized local litigation law firms, and most recently served as Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucass Director of Public Safety, which allowed her to lead strategic planning and policy development focused on violence prevention and intervention initiatives. Most notably, Prosecutor-elect Johnson led Partners for Peace, a citywide violence intervention strategy, while working collaboratively with the Kansas City Police Department and the Prosecutors Office to create SAVE KC, Kansas Citys focused deterrence program. As someone born and raised in this area, where I continue to make my home today, I am proud to step into the role of Jackson County Prosecutor and I look forward to continuing to serve the community that shaped me, said Prosecutor-elect Johnson. My decade of legal experience in prosecution, trial practice, and public safety has shown me that justice is built on strong relationships and collaboration between the Prosecutors Office, law enforcement, and the community we serve. I am committed to strengthening those bonds, while ensuring justice is served equitably for all. Prosecutor-elect Johnson assembled an experienced executive team to support her vision for the office: - Dion Sankar, Chief Deputy Prosecutor: Dion Sankar is an assistant prosecuting attorney and program manager for the Jackson County Prosecutors Offices Drug Court Program and supervises the offices diversion programs. Prior to joining the Jackson County Prosecutors Office, Sankar worked in the litigation division of the Missouri Attorney Generals Office where he defended civil claims filed against state and governmental entities and the Kansas City Police Department. He also worked as an associate at the McCallister Law Firm, P.C. where he represented individuals in civil claims, including police misconduct. - Gina Robinson, Director of Operations: Gina Robinson is a skilled manager with experience that spans multiple areas of municipal government and progressive levels of responsibility. As Chief of Operations, Robinson oversees budget, regulatory and personnel policies and procedures in addition to state and federal grants management. She is a key advisor on fiscal and regulatory matters. - Theresa Crayon, Director of Programs: Theresa Crayon recently served as Chief Trial Assistant, overseeing the offices General Crimes Unit and Warrant Desk. Crayon has been a prosecutor in the office since 1991 and has received numerous awards for her work, including the Louis Lombardo Prosecutor of the Year Award and the Patrick B. Hall Award for Trial Attorney of the Year. Crayon also worked as a senior attorney in the Major Crimes Unit and as a Trial Team Leader in the Domestic Violence Unit. - Jazzlyn Johnson, Director of Communications: Jazzlyn Johnson previously served as Press Secretary for Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas where she managed communications and media relations. Prior to entering public service, Johnson honed her storytelling and news judgment as a print reporter for a Black-owned newspaper, The Community Voice. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Montana. INAUGURATION DAY DETAILS WHEN: Friday, January 3 at 10:00 a.m. WHERE: Historic Brady Courtroom, Truman Courthouse, 112 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO (Street parking, use north entrance door for entry on 112 W. Maple St.) NOTES: Seating for the public is limited. Livestream is available - https://vimeo.com/event/4804564/43ad680d54 ############ Developing . . . For our evening new peek we check in with billionaire, fashionista, biz lady hottie Kylie who inspires us to take a look at pop cutlure, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Local Living Space Tribute Habitat for Humanity Kansas City honoring former President Jimmy Carter President Jimmy Carter helped to build nearly 4,500 homes through the Carter project -- many being Habitat for Humanity homes. Rock Chalk Risk Even after Marion newspaper raid, it's still open season on reporters in Kansas | Opinion Nobody has been charged criminally for conducting the illegal search of the Marion County Record's offices and its owners' home. | Opinion Show-Me More Cash New year means new minimum wage increase in Missouri The increase in the minimum wage is part of Proposition A, a ballot issue Missouri voters approved in November. Dead-Tree Advice For GOP 2025 Kansas Legislature should focus on property tax reform, not social issues | Opinion Lawmakers, avoid wholesale revisions to income tax, corporate tax cuts, or other changes that would dent the budget. | Opinion Building Block Redux Block Real Estate resurfaces plan to add apartments near U.S. Highway 69 - Kansas City Business Journal The apartments won initial approval from city planners in 2023, but they expired earlier in December. Scary Insta-Fake Clap Back Kylie Jenner 'gives fans nightmares' as they spot awkward Photoshop fail To celebrate the upcoming new year, Kylie Jenner shared a post on Instagram of memories from the past year. But fans noticed something odd in one of the pictures More Deets On MAGA Fight What we know about US H-1B visas Trump supporters are clashing over An immigration row has erupted over a long-standing US visa programme, We've looked into the figures behind the scheme. GOP Speaker Settled?!?! Speaker math: Breaking down how many votes Johnson needs to keep his gavel House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) heads to the House floor on Friday in hopes of being formally reelected Speaker. While Johnson has the endorsement of President-elect Trump to remain Speaker, one Republican is pledging to oppose him, and several others are not committing to supporting Johnson. Vlad Copes With Tech Cut Tensions with Russia rise amid power line sabotage Russia's connection to the rupture of an undersea cable between Finland and Estonia is raising a new bevy of fears over the sabotage of critical power lines. The new incidents come as tensions betw... Haxxorz Evoke History Lesson Ford's X account is 'hacked' as auto giant rushes to delete tweets THE official account for auto giant Ford has posted anti-Israel messages in an apparent hack. In posts shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, the official Ford account pushed pro-Palestine slogans... CCP Targets American Cash China-backed hackers breached US Treasury workstations | CNN Business The US Treasury Department notified lawmakers on Monday that a China state-sponsored actor infiltrated Treasury workstations in what officials are describing as a "major incident." Tech Tools Trending Expert predicts women will have more sex with robots than men in 2025 Women might overtaken men in the adoption of sex robots by 2025 - in part, because they already have a technological head start, according to futurist Dr Ian Pearson. Playoff Preview Redux Broncos can wipe away back-to-back heartbreakers and make playoffs by beating Kansas City Losses to the Chargers and Bengals with a playoff berth on the line show Sean Payton made a miscalculation when he agreed to flex the Denver Broncos' Week 16 game to a Thursday night. Winter On The Way Kansas City weather: Light rain in the metro, snow possible up north Northern Missouri will see light rain Monday night that could mix with snow as temperatures dip into the low 30s. And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. A soul crushing Kansas City story of human suffering offers an ample opportunity to gauge the personality of TKC readers . . . More than anything else the tragic tale of an addict pilfering food at a local hospital reminds us that Universal Health Coverage is probably the only way to protect citizens from becoming the wage slaves of merciless corporations. Given what we've seen of the local discourse . . . Only shills or reactionaries argue against UHC as some kind of socialist evil whilst overlooking so much CORPORATE WELFARE, banks that are TOO BIG TO FAIL and all of that groovy "socialist" taxpayer subsidized jet fuel. But these consideration are merely our gadfly antics . . . The point here is to question readers . . . SHOULD KANSAS CITY REBUKE THIS POOR LADY OR ADMIT HER SAD SITUATION REFLECTS A BROKEN SYSTEM?!?! Even better, moralistic ideas about drug abuse might "flavor" local conversations. Either way . . . Here's a quick look at the sitch and more info . . . Arrested on Dec. 27 after a Saint Lukes Hospital employee reported seeing who he believed to be an elderly woman stealing from the cafeteria. Responding deputies said they detained her in the cafeteria and she gave them a fake name. When they told her she could not leave because they suspected she had stolen, she said she was going to throw some trash away and instead began sprinting out the emergency department doors. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Actually . . . Charter schools have been widely celebrated in KCMO as they provide the only viable choice for local middle-class denizens will choose the public option with a few safety parameters . . . Basically ensuring that youngsters won't be subjected to beatings by fellow students with no consequences that typically confront "regular" KCPS schools. Debate that tragic fact of life all you want . . . It's part of the reason why KCPS has lost MOST of its student population over the course of two generations. Now . . . Some of our progressive friends might be looking to limit the prevalence of charter schools in the name of "local control" and/or given that urban districts are now more of a holding corp. and don't really control public education any longer . . . And so . . . Here's a preview of the fight . . . "Republican legislators are set to push for further expansion of charter schools around Missouri when the General Assembly reconvenes next month. "Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing for more local control in counties where charters already operate, along with rolling back an expansion . . ." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Philippine consul general: Guangxi is a valuable partner for ASEAN countries in expanding cross-border e-commerce People's Daily Online) 16:34, December 31, 2024 A photo shows Iric C. Arribas, Philippine consul general in Guangzhou, as he sits down for an interview with People's Daily Online. (People's Daily Online) "The Philippines and China are advancing cooperation in the digital economy and e-commerce sectors, with both countries selling each other's products on e-commerce platforms," said Iric C. Arribas, Philippine consul general in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. Making the statement during an interview with People's Daily Online, Arribas shared his insights on the development and future e-commerce cooperation between ASEAN countries and China, especially the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. "Guangxi has seen impressive growth in cross-border e-commerce, particularly with ASEAN countries," said Arribas. "The region serves as a key hub for exporting ASEAN products to China, which greatly benefits the Philippines." Arribas subsequently noted that Guangxi's openness to various ASEAN products and its strategic infrastructure in cross-border e-commerce make it a valuable partner for ASEAN countries in expanding cross-border e-commerce. In recent years, Guangxi has actively engaged in exchange activities in e-commerce with ASEAN countries, including the China-ASEAN Silk Road (Cross-border) E-commerce Open Cooperation Promotion Event, and the Guangxi New Silk Road New Year E-commerce Festival. Arribas believes that the events created a stronger bond between enterprises among China and ASEAN countries. "ASEAN enterprises can set up product pavilions on e-commerce platforms, increasing visibility in China. The events also support micro, small, and medium enterprises, providing them with exposure through trade fairs, seminars, and digital platforms, helping them grow in a competitive and sustainable market," remarked Arribas. In January 2023, the Philippines and China signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create an e-commerce cooperation framework, exchange best practices, and promote product trade via online platforms. Arribas holds a strong belief that further business cooperation between the two nations will be strengthened. "Right now, consumers can buy Philippine goods on Chinese online e-commerce platforms. With China being the top consumer for Philippine fruit such as pineapples, the space for further e-commerce cooperation is broad and promising." Arribas explained. He noted that there is broad space for cooperation in foreign direct investment (FDI) and the participation of micro, small, and medium enterprises in e-commerce development. Peng Yukai contributed to this story. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Du Mingming) The complaints of Ukrainians about the work of service centers have been taken into account, a reboot of all processes for the provision of services is being carried out, but such facts should not cast a shadow on those employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs whose work is worthy of respect, head of the department Ihor Klymenko says. "When society pays attention to the poor quality of services or criticism of specific employees appears, we immediately respond, take measures and report on the results. For example, regarding the work of the service center, we initiated a comprehensive reboot of all processes," the minister said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine. At the same time, he stressed: "It is important to remember that individual dishonest employees should not question the dedication and self-sacrifice of thousands of others who, despite shelling and difficult conditions, daily ensure order and provide necessary services." "Our employees, including those at the front, deserve respect, because they give everything of themselves and often their lives to ensure security and stability in the country," Klymenko concluded. Eros Tours & Travel Inc. has established itself as a reliable and family-oriented online travel agency. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company has been a trusted partner for millions of travelers seeking affordable, seamless, and personalized travel solutions. (TRAVPR.COM) UNITED STATES - December 28th, 2024 - Los Angeles, California - Since its founding in 1990, Eros Tours & Travel Inc. has established itself as a reliable and family-oriented online travel agency. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company has been a trusted partner for millions of travelers seeking affordable, seamless, and personalized travel solutions. Specializing in discounted airline tickets, hotel accommodations, and vacation packages, Eros Tours & Travel stands out as a leader in the travel industry. A Legacy of Trust Eros Tours & Travel Inc. has built its reputation on trust, integrity, and dedication to customer satisfaction. With over three decades of experience, the company has earned recognition as a member of key industry organizations, including the Airline Reporting Corporation (ARC), the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), and the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN). These memberships underscore Eros Tours & Travels commitment to meeting the highest standards of professionalism and service. The agency partners with over 370 airlines worldwide, including major carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, and British Airways. This extensive network allows the company to offer competitive pricing and tailored travel solutions that fit every budget and itinerary. Travelers can trust Eros Tours & Travel to provide safe, reliable, and affordable travel options for both domestic and international journeys. Family-Centered Values At its core, Eros Tours & Travel is a family-oriented business that prioritizes creating meaningful travel experiences. The company understands the importance of connecting loved ones, whether for family vacations, reunions, or special occasions. By offering affordable airfare and curated vacation packages, Eros Tours & Travel helps families create cherished memories without breaking the bank. Our mission has always been to bring people closer together, says Sunne Khurana, Founder of Eros Tours & Travel Inc. Whether its helping a family reunite for the holidays or making a dream vacation a reality, we take pride in being part of our customers journeys. Exceptional Customer Support Eros Tours & Travel Inc. takes pride in its 24/7 customer support, ensuring that travelers receive assistance whenever they need it. From booking inquiries to itinerary adjustments, the companys dedicated support team is equipped to handle even the most complex travel plans. This commitment to customer care has made Eros Tours & Travel a trusted name among families and individuals alike. Seamless Online Booking Experience The companys user-friendly website, www.erostours.com, offers an intuitive booking platform where customers can easily search for flights, hotels, and vacation packages. With a focus on convenience and transparency, Eros Tours & Travel simplifies the travel planning process for families and individuals alike. Looking Ahead As Eros Tours & Travel Inc. continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of trust, affordability, and family-centered service. The company is committed to leveraging technology and expanding its partnerships to provide even greater value to its customers. For more information, visit www.erostours.com or contact their 24/7 customer support team. Contact Eros Tours & Travel Inc. Phone: +1-800-123-4567 Email: support@erostours.com Website: www.erostours.com Address: 117 West 9th street, Suite # 307, Los Angeles, CA 90015 About Eros Tours & Travel Inc. Founded in 1990, Eros Tours & Travel Inc. is a Los Angeles-based online travel agency offering affordable and reliable travel solutions. With a focus on family-oriented services, the company specializes in discounted airfare, hotel accommodations, and curated vacation packages. Trusted by millions, Eros Tours & Travel partners with over 370 airlines and is a proud member of ARC, ASTA, and IATAN. ### Kerala Travels Interserve introduces new services and exclusive packages, including customized holidays, corporate travel solutions, and eco-tourism initiatives. With a revamped website for seamless booking and a focus on exceptional service, the company aims to redefine travel experiences in Kerala and beyond. (TRAVPR.COM) INDIA - December 30th, 2024 - Trivandrum, Kerala December 30, 2024:One of the top travel companies in India, Kerala Travels Interserve, is pleased to present a number of innovative new services and special packages that are intended to provide passengers with an exceptional experience. They are dedicated to providing outstanding value and life-changing experiences, and it keeps raising the bar for travel in Kerala and beyond. Kerala Travels Interserve, a reputable brand in the travel sector, is developing its product line to satisfy the rising need for custom travel experiences that satisfy the various needs of its customers. With the ideal balance of luxury, convenience, and customization, the company now offers even more chances to experience Kerala's beauty and culture, whether for leisure, business, or customized trips. A number of new travel packages have been introduced by them to accommodate the wide range of traveler preferences. Customized vacation packages for families, singles, honeymooners, and group excursions are now among the company's exclusive options, guaranteeing that everyone will discover a package that suits their unique needs. The top attractions of Kerala, such as its picturesque backwaters, hill stations, immaculate beaches, and lively cultural events, can be enjoyed by visitors with customized itineraries. These days, tourists can select from a variety of themes, each designed to offer a distinctive and engaging experience, including wellness retreats, adventure tours, cultural immersion, and luxury experiences. The company's knowledgeable travel advisors collaborate closely with customers to create the ideal itinerary, making sure that every aspect of the trip is taken care of. They have launched a special section for business and corporate travelers in response to the increased need for corporate travel solutions. Corporate travel management, which encompasses everything from lodging and flight reservations to meeting and transportation planning, is part of this new service. Every business trip is smooth and productive because of the company's emphasis on convenience and efficiency. They provide end-to-end solutions to meet the specific requirements of corporate clients, whether you are planning executive business trips, incentive travel, or team-building activities. The firm is a top option for businesses wishing to plan productive corporate events and meetings in Kerala because of its individualized services, as well as its familiarity with the area's business climate and attractions. They have launched a number of eco-friendly travel initiatives to lessen the negative effects of tourism on the environment as part of its dedication to responsible tourism. These include encouraging tourists to engage in locally beneficial community-based tourism activities, supporting eco-tourism initiatives in the area, and promoting environmentally friendly modes of transportation. The ecotourism tours offered by the business are made to give visitors genuine experiences while encouraging the conservation of Kerala's scenic surroundings. They make a significant contribution to promoting environmentally sustainable travel practices. Kerala Travels Interserve has updated their website to make it more feature-rich and user-friendly in response to the growing demand for online travel services. Customers may browse and purchase packages, lodging, transportation, and activities with ease thanks to the new website's smooth online booking experience. Travelers can now book their entire vacation with a few clicks and conduct secure transactions thanks to connected payment channels. In order to assist passengers in making well-informed decisions, the website also offers comprehensive itineraries, travel guides, and suggestions. They hope to make trip planning in Kerala as simple and pleasurable as possible with the new platform. Kerala Travels Interserve has a long history of providing individualized customer service, and the company's activities are still based on this dedication. Every tourist is given special attention and solutions are customized to fit their unique requirements. They guarantee that every traveler has a hassle-free and unforgettable experience, whether it means delivering last-minute itinerary modifications or on-the-ground assistance during the trip. To guarantee that customers receive the best possible support prior to, during, and following their trip, the company's committed staff of travel specialists is always on hand to help with any questions or requests. They have fortified its alliances with numerous domestic and foreign travel operators in order to broaden its network and give its customers even more choices. The agency is able to provide exclusive access to a wider range of locations and services, such as international tours, cruises, and adventure experiences, thanks to this partnership. Kerala Travels Interserve can now provide passengers with exclusive offers, discounts, and discounted packages thanks to the new agreements, which further increases its appeal to those organizing their next vacation. They keeps improving its standing as a top travel supplier by concentrating on creating enduring connections within the travel sector. About Kerala Travels Interserve Established in 1983, Kerala Travels Interserve is a leading travel company that provides a variety of tourism services to tourists both domestically and abroad. With more than 40 years of experience, the company has made a name for itself as a trustworthy and customer-focused brand that is dedicated to offering top-notch travel experiences. They are the leader in the tourism sector, providing everything from corporate travel management and eco-tourism services to personalized vacation packages. The organization takes great pleasure in its in-depth understanding of Kerala's local attractions, culture, and landscapes, guaranteeing each visitor a unique and unforgettable experience. Kerala Travels Interserve is committed to providing its customers with unmatched service while advancing responsible travel. For more information or to book your next adventure, visit the official website https://keralatravels.in/ or contact the Kerala Travels Interserve team directly. ### Units of the Special Operations Forces on the night of Tuesday, December 31, in cooperation with the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces and other components of the Defense Forces, attacked the Yartsevskaya oil depot in Smolensk region (Russia), the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports. "Powerful explosions and a fire were recorded at the facility, heavy smoke is observed. According to available information, tanks with oil products caught fire. It is known that the base was used, in particular, to supply the Russian occupation army," the message on the Telegram channel says. Additional information on the results of the combat work is being clarified. 2024 in Review: 84% Rise in Communal Riots in India According to the Centre Study of Society and Secularism (CSSS) a total of 59 communal riots occurred in the year 2024, marking a sharp increase of 84% from 32 communal riots reported in the year 2023 Tuesday December 31, 2024 11:36 PM , CSSS Team (File Image for Representation (Source: Reuters) [According to the Centre Study of Society and Secularism (CSSS) monitoring of newspaper reports (Indian Express, Times of India, The Hindu, Shahafat, and Inquilab), 59 communal riots occurred in the year 2024, marking a sharp increase of 84% from 32 communal riots reported in the year 2023. Maharashtra witnessed the highest number of communal riots (12), followed by Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, with seven each. It is interesting to note that Maharashtra has emerged as a communal hotbed in the year 2024 with highest number of communal riots and mob lynching incidents. These communal riots claimed 13 lives- three Hindus and ten Muslims. The majority of communal riots were triggered during religious festivals or processions, including Pran Pratishthan at Ayodhya Ram Mandir (four riots in January), Saraswati Puja immersions (seven), Ganesh festivals (four), and Bakri Eid (two). This data underscores how religious celebrations are increasingly exploited as triggers for communal tensions and political mobilization. Also Read: Muslim Newsmakers of 2024 In addition to the communal riots, 12 incidents of mob lynching were reported in the year 2024, resulting in 10 deaths: one Hindu, one Christian, and eight Muslims. While this represents a decline from 21 mob lynching incidents recorded in the year 2023, the persistence of these attacks remains a concern. Six of these lynchings were linked to cow vigilantism or accusations of cow slaughter. Other cases of lynching were on the pretext of interfaith relationships and assaults targeting Muslims for their religious identity. Geographically, Maharashtra accounted for three lynchings, while Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh each reported two incidents, and Karnataka recorded one. The data reveals a troubling trend: while mob lynching incidents decreased, communal riots reported as reported in these five newspapers surged by nearly 84%. Together, these developments signify an escalation of communal tensions and the marginalization of Muslims, further threatening the secular fabric of Indian society. The rise in the number of communal riots can be attributed to the General Elections that were held in April/May in 2024 and state assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Haryana. Similarly, the intervention of India Judiciary in calling upon on the state to take action against mob lynching especially after Hindus were victims of mob lynching have resulted in lesser incidents of mob lynching. CSSS based on its annual monitoring has highlighted intensification and changes in trends of communal violence in India during 2024. The year also saw a disturbing shift towards more institutionalized forms of violence, characterized primarily by attacks on places of religious worship and attempts by fringe Hindu right-wing groups to push for archeological surveys of historic mosques and dargahs, including the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. These actions reflect a concerted effort to reshape Indias socio-political and cultural landscape. This trend was accompanied by significant legislative changes, such as the introduction of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand and amendments to the Waqf Board Act. Additionally, the use of bulldozers to demolish properties owned by Muslims without due legal process continued unabated from 2023, symbolizing state power being wielded disproportionately against the Muslim community. Bulldozers in the years 2023 and 2024 have become synonymous with collective punishment meted out to the Muslims. Ironically, bulldozers are used to punish Muslims when they are victims of the same communal riots. Furthermore, an increase in communal riots, particularly during religious festivals, has heightened concerns about the erosion of Indias secular and composite cultural fabric. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Adieu, Hate Filled 2024 An impartial review of the year 2024, makes it clear that Hate has become an essential component of the ruling partys campaign to vilify and malign the religious minorities in the country Tuesday December 31, 2024 12:37 PM , Asad Mirza [The family members of Delhi riot victims (File image/X)] An impartial review of the year 2024, makes it clear that Hate has become an essential component of the ruling partys campaign to vilify and malign the religious minorities in the country. Further, it also made it obvious that they are not apologetic about constructing a false and hateful narrative for selfish gains and spreading a parochial mindset. Like previous years, even 2024 was no different for the countrys minorities, particularly the religious minorities like Christians and Muslims. As 2024 was an election year, it was thought by saner elements in the country that the targeted victims of alleged state-sponsored violence might get a respite in the year. They were however proven wrong. In the months leading to the general elections, a completely vicious and one sides campaign against the religious minorities was orchestrated by the right-wing elements with tacit support of the local bureaucracy and the police. Also Read: Muslim Newsmakers of 2024 In 2024, five states in particular, i.e. Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh were virtually turned into state-run laboratories to harass the religious minorities. It seemed as if the script to target the religious minorities was written by the top honchos and the task to deliver was given over to lesser-known right-wing outfits. A cacophonic storm was started in Himachal Pradeshs capital Shimla, against a local masjid claiming that it was an encroachment and was built illegally, even though the masjid committee had all the relevant documents to prove the ownership and sanctions by the concerned authorities to add additional floors to the masjid. But when state power is usurped by goons then who cares to listen to the evidence and sane advice? This concerted action against the Muslims in the state led to their ostracisation further, when Muslims were asked to leave different localities in several towns and cities of the state. On the same lines, a doctor couple was urged by the right-wing elements to cancel the sale of their house to a Muslim couple, in Moradabad-UP, as the locals claimed that this sale will vitiate the atmosphere of the colony. A parallel affect of this thinking has been noticed across several metros in India where small and big builders have started constructing gated communities for a particular religious community adorned with a mandir and where the buyers from other religious communities are not entertained. The same script was played yet again in New Delhi, when several old masjids and graveyards were served notices alleging illegal encroachment, and in spite of clear judicial orders, the "bulldozer justice" was exercised by the local authorities. The people who shed crocodile tears on issues close to their heart, were not ready to either condemn and stop the local administrations activities, when such activities were taking place right there in the national capital. As in such cases their lips, eyes and ears seemed to be closed, as if they were in a trance and engaged in a meditational exercise. Since they had claimed themselves to be non-biological, they could indeed adopt a non-worldly attitude. As if the replay of the old script was not enough, the central government brought in a constitutional amendment bill to manage the Waqf properties of the Muslim community. This was done although these properties were donated by Muslims themselves for the welfare of the community and over the years no government had interfered in their day-to-day management. But to counter the anti-bill narrative, a false narrative was built-up utilising WhatsApp and other social media platforms to spread canards against the Muslim community and Waqf properties. Another face of the right-wing politics taking firm roots in the political landscape of the country was evident when different political parties announced their candidates for the Lok Sabha elections. Though, the BJPs allergy to Muslim candidates is self-explanatory but even the so-called secular parties were not ready to give tickets to Muslim candidates proportionate to their population numbers. The result was all glaring when the 18th Lok Sabha got constituted with the lowest share of Muslim MPs in the last six decades. Less than 5% of its members currently are Muslims despite people from the community forming over 15% of the countrys population. In total, there are currently 24 Muslim MPs (4.4%) in the Lok Sabha. Also Read: The Most Shameful Moment of 2024 The party with the most elected members in 2024, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has no representatives from the Muslim community currently. In fact, the decline in the share of the Muslim MPs in the Lok Sabha, in the 1990s, coincided with the rise of the BJP, whose total MP tally crossed the 100-mark for the first time in the 10th Lok Sabha (1991-96). Moreover, during the election campaign the countrys prime minister instead of talking about the success of his so-called development programmes, reflected in his jumlas, propelled by his governments social and economic boost, chose to spoke on completely fabricated charges against the countrys Muslims community and the opposition, viz, that if the Congress party came to power, it would distribute the countrys wealth among Muslims. He also warned people that the Congress would take away their possessions such as the bridal necklace, or mangalsutra of Hindu women and give it to its vote bank i.e. the Muslims; he further claimed that the opposition Congress party was planning to take away job reservations from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and give them to Muslims; additionally he said that the opposition alliance is asking Muslims to do vote jihad. It was wishfully or rather erroneously expected that after the BJPs return to power the hate speeches and hate campaign against the religious minorities would be forsaken by the right-wing elements, but again the hopes were belied. In just two months i.e. August and September 2024, there were 135 violent attacks on the religious minorities and close to 68 hate speeches were delivered against them. In the second half of the year, the right-wing elements found another ploy to harass the Muslim community. They initiated a campaign alleging that hundreds of mosques across the country including the ones at Varanasi, Mathura and even Delhis Jama Masjid have been built on demolished temples and urged the courts to order excavation of these mosques. The worst result of this canard was evident in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, where the police action against the local Muslims demonstrating against the excavation of the local Jama Masjid, resulted in death of four Muslim youth. An end to this insane campaign was laid when the Supreme Court in its order of 12 December directed courts across the country not to entertain or pass orders in any new suits or pleas seeking surveys of mosques to determine whether temples exist beneath them. The court further restrained lower courts from passing any orders in existing suits concerning such disputes, effectively putting a freeze on surveys pending further directions. But it remains to be seen how long this restrain may continue, as the Supreme Court itself in April 2023 and earlier in October 2022 had urged the relevant authorities to take Suo Motu action against the culprits who indulge in hate speeches, and file FIR against the culprits. Yet, despite those orders Hate Speeches continued to dominate the election campaign and at a conservative estimate around 200 hate speeches were delivered by the right-wing leaders in 2024 alone. It was not as if this treatment was reserved just for Muslims, according to a report by the United Christian Forum, 745 cases of hate and violence were committed against the countrys Christian community by right-wing Hindu activists, across India. At the fag-end of the year, on the occasion of Christmas, the old story was repeated again and several incidents of Santa Claus being targeted by the right-wing elements were reported from several states of the country. Overall, it seems that hate has been able to entrench itself in the Indian political ecosystem and until and unless a cohesive action plan is not put in motion by the countrys government and its efforts augmented to reign-in the right-wing elements, nothing better could be expected even in 2025, as it seems that hate has become the fate accompli of the countrys religious minorities, to further a polarising and divisive political agenda. (Asad Mirza is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on national, international, defence and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant.) Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Disinformation campaign by Indian media threatens Indo-Bangla ties The Indian medias coverage appears to be driven by concern solely for Hindus of Bangladesh, rather than the people of Bangladesh Tuesday December 31, 2024 11:43 PM , Saleem Samad Indias current political maneuvers, particularly those involving religious factors, are akin to pouring cold water on a relationship that has endured for over half a century. Such actions risk tarnishing the two nations deep-rooted historical, cultural, and mutual respect. Its crucial to recognize that India and Bangladesh have shared a resilient relationship that has weathered many hiccups over the last fifty years. However, recent political maneuvers in India - particularly those influenced by religious factors, create tension that could undermine this precious bond. In India, a wave of negativity has emerged, fueled not only by certain media outlets but also by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which champions the Hindutva ideology. The rhetoric challenges the legitimacy of the Interim Government headed by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, who has promised to hold free and fair parliamentary elections in early 2026. As Prof Yunus stated: The Bangladesh-India relationship is deep and multifaceted. We can have our differences but that cannot define it. Delhi is reluctant to engage positively with the new government after Sheikh Hasinas autocratic regime has fallen and fled to India. The narrative being propagated suggests that Yunus has strayed from Bangladeshs secular premises, leaving the door ajar to radicalized Muslims that have unfortunately perpetrated violence against the Hindu community, vandalizing Hindu business establishments and desecrating temples. Also Read: Image showing Bangladeshi man disrespecting Indian Flag is AI generated The "Godi Media", a term used to describe sensationalist and biased Indian print and TV news media, has been instrumental in perpetuating this disinformation. They have broadcasted/posted several fake videos showing attacks on Hindus and the killing of scores of Hindus, further exacerbating the tensions. The "Godi Media" described the religious tension as genocide and ethnic cleansing, which is far from the accepted definition by academics. Despite the diligent efforts of fact-checkers in both Bangladesh and India, including the BBC, debunking these fabrications, the negative portrayal of Bangladesh continues. But that did not stop or even slow down the tirade of stories demonizing Bangladesh. An investigation by fact-checker Rumor Scanner identified 13 misleading reports published by Indian media between August and December following the collapse of the Awami League government. According to Rumor Scanner, 49 media outlets - including well-known names such as the Republic Bangla, Hindustan Times, Zee News, Live Mint, Republic TV, India Today, ABP Anand, and Aaj Tak, were implicated in spreading this inaccurate information. Alarmingly, the analysis further revealed that a staggering 72% of social media accounts based in India are engaged in spreading misleading narratives about Bangladesh. Also Read: Fake image circulated to claim Sheikh Hasina has converted to Hinduism Editor Mahfuz Anam of the influential English newspaper The Daily Star writes that a powerful section of the Indian media has shifted into the reprimand mode, with some even suggesting punishment. Much of the social media discourse seems to support this. The Indian medias coverage appears to be driven by concern solely for Hindus of Bangladesh, rather than the people of Bangladesh, remarks Anam. New Delhis South Block has weaponized the Hindu atrocities in Bangladesh to hide their diplomatic debacle for putting all eggs in one basket in the hand of their blue-eyed Sheikh Hasina. It is undeniable that the religious and ethnic communities in Bangladesh were victims of persecution, atrocities, vandalism of business establishments and desecration of religious prayer halls, including Hindu temples, Christian churches, Buddhist pagodas and also Ahmadiyya mosques. It is essential to contextualize the sectarian persecution and violence in Bangladesh within the historical legacy of injustice that has plagued the region. Since Bangladeshs independence, perpetrators of religiously motivated violence have evaded accountability. There is no denying that such attacks on religious communities are a legacy of perpetrators enjoying impunity. None of the perpetrators faced the music of justice since 1972 when independence hero Sheikh Mujibur Rahman returned from imprisonment in Pakistan. This silence in holding aggressors accountable for sectarian violence has perpetuated a cycle of impunity that continues to impact communities today. Durga Puja is a sacred religious festival of the Hindus of Bengal (historically, Bangladesh was known as East Bengal). It dampened the spirit of the newly independent Bangladesh of millions of Hindus, secularists, advocates of pluralism, and liberal Muslims alike Even under the despotic leadership of Sheikh Hasina, calls for accountability have often gone unheard. Many Hindus in Bangladesh, who have historically supported the Awami League, feel disillusioned by the lack of action taken against those responsible for religious violence. The perception persists that the ruling party, rather than protecting extremism, has allowed perpetrators to go unpunished. Instead, she blamed Islamist parties and the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for the sectarian violence. Rana Dasgupta, a former General Secretary of the Bangladesh Hindu Christian Buddhist Unity Council, noted the unfortunate reality that some grassroot leaders of the Awami League were found in the company of rioters during incidents of violence. At a press conference in Chattagram (formerly Chittagong), his organization lamented the political leaderships failure to safeguard Hindu temples and communities during crucial festivals. According to Ain O Salish Kendra, a Bangladeshi human rights organization, at least 3,600 similar attacks have occurred in Bangladesh between 2013 and 2021. Such violence had prompted Prof Robaet Ferdous of Dhaka University, an outspoken defender of religious freedom, to say: Its not the failure of the local administration, police or the ruling party to protect the Hindus, but I see the collapse of the society during a national crisis, which contradicts the legacy of the glorious liberation war in 1971 which promised to establish secularism, pluralism, and freedom of expression in Bangladesh. According to Rana Dasgupta: a culture of impunity has been created in Bangladesh for attacks on Hindus. Those involved in these attacks have never been prosecuted, and as a result, it continues. Indias conspicuous silence over the atrocities, persecution, and vandalism against Hindus and other religious communities during the 15 years of Hasinas era has been ignored. The South Block, which looks after the Indian foreign policy in New Delhi, probably did not want to embarrass Sheikh Hasina when the sectarian violence was prominently published in mainstream media and human rights groups identified her Awami League, which she inherited from her father, Sheikh Mujib was the prime accused. India, despite having a functional democracy and pluralism, never advised Hasina to hold an inclusive, free, fair, and credible election. Delhis indulgence has encouraged Hasina to grow into a Frankenstein and dare to rig the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections, angered the West and the core reason for voters outrage with her regime. Re-elected for the third consecutive term through holding sham elections, she instead received feathers on her hat and congratulatory messages from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Hefazat-e-Islam, launched in 2010 to protect Islam, was spurred particularly by a proposed policy to confer equal inheritance rights to women and womens empowerment, which is lauded in international media and the United Nations. During her tenure (2009-2024), Hasina placed the radicalized Islamic organization Hefazat-e-Islam on her lap to defuse their anger against womens empowerment and womens rights. Despite protests from secularists and civil society, her government consciously amended the school textbooks with an Islamic coating. Based on the musical tunes of the Madrassa (Qawmi Islamic schools), the network introduced Islamic culture and tradition into the secular fabric of the society. She kept the Hefazat in good humor in a bid to shield her authoritarian regime from the dreaded Islamists and jihadists outfits Jamaat-e-Islami, outlawed Harkatul Jihad al Islam (HuJI), Hizb ut-Tahrir and other fringe outfits. Bangladeshs acclaimed political historian Mohiuddin Ahmad said the appeasement of Hasina was never to hurt her counterpart Modi by mentioning that the rights of the Dalits (low caste Hindus), Christians, Muslims and ethnic communities also impact Bangladesh. Not surprisingly, the South Blocks so-called Look East Policy has placed Bangladesh as a delinquent state like that of Pakistan, said Ahmad. India arbitrarily stopped issuing visas to Bangladesh nationals after Hasinas fall in early August, citing security reasons. Bangladeshs number of tourists and visitors to India was 2.12 million in 2023. The figure has dwindled to less than half and will decline when many Bangladesh multiple visas expire in December. The non-issuance of visas has caused tension among Bangladesh nationals who regularly visit India for medical purposes. Some go on pilgrimage to Ajmer and other such sites. A significant percentage of people visit India for business and pleasure. The visa restrictions have stopped direct buses from Dhaka to Kolkata and Dhaka to Agartala. Direct train services from Dhaka to Kolkata, Dhaka to Siliguri, and Khulna-Kolkata have also reached a screeching halt. Similarly, both Bangladesh and Indian airlines have reduced flights by one-third in the absence of passengers who failed to avail of Indian visas. Ahmad said people-to-people contact has been severely hampered due to visa restrictions imposed by India to punish the people of Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the Boycott India campaign on social media, which was joined by fringe political parties, melted after Bangladesh planned to import 50,000 tons of rice from India. The Interim Government recently imported eggs, green chilies, onions, and potatoes to stabilize the kitchen market. On the other hand, India-Bangladesh bilateral trade is lopsided. Bangladeshs exports are nearly $2 billion, while imports from India as of 2023 stood at $12 billion. This is also a contention with Indian policymakers and Bangladeshs industrial, manufacturing, and exporters bodies. As long as India hosts the fugitive Shiekh Hasina, who lives in exile at an official safe house near Delhi, it will be difficult for India-Bangladesh relations to reach a new height. Unless she is extradited to Bangladesh to face trial for crimes against humanity, the relations will turn from sour to bitter. Fortunately, Bangladesh and India signed an extradition treaty in 2013. The Indian Express newspaper argues that India also has the option of refusing Hasinas extradition because the accusations against her are not in good faith in the interests of justice. However, the newspaper must realize that the refusal to extradite Hasina may further strain ties between New Delhi and Dhaka. Well, India has no option left but to take the risk to save Hasina from walking to the gallows for crimes for ordering the law enforcement agencies to shoot and kill hundreds of students and protesters during the July-August Monsoon Revolution, says former Ambassador Humayun Kabir, who served as a diplomat in India and the United States. Kabir also said Bangladesh should develop a contingency plan if India decides not to deport her. The government will also have to calculate the risk factor of whether Bangladesh can live without the most prominent neighbors fraternity, which had helped achieve the bloody birth of Bangladesh in 1971. [Saleem Samad is an award-winning independent journalist based in Bangladesh. A media rights defender with the Reporters Without Borders (@RSF_inter). Recipient of Ashoka Fellowship and Hellman-Hammett Award. He could be reached at saleemsamad@hotmail.com; Twitter (X): @saleemsamad. The above article is first published in the Stratheia Policy Journal, 30 December 2024.] Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home MHT CET 2025 Registration Starts - Direct Link As per the Maharashtra CET Cell, the MHT CET 2025 (PCM) will be held from April 19 to 27, 2025, and the MHT CET 2025 (PCB) for this year will be held from April 09 to 17, 2025 Tuesday December 31, 2024 9:33 PM , ummid.com News Network [Image for representation] MHT CET 2025 Registration: The State Common Entrance Test Cell Maharashtra has started receiving online application through its website 'cetcell.mahacet.org' for MHT CET 2025 from Monday December 30, 2024. Candidates should note that the online registration has started for MHT CET 2025 (PCM) and MHT CET 2025 (PCB) both. Candidate who want to appear for MHT CET 2025 should note that the last date of application is February 15, 2025. Candidates should also note that online registration and confirmation of Application Form on website (with additional Late Fee of Rs. 500/- for all categories) is from February 16 to 22, 2025. All registered candidates will be required to make payment - only through online mode, up to February 23, 2025. MHT CET 2025 Date MHT CET 2025 is held for Engineering as well as Medical students. It is a mandatory entrance test for admission in various engineering and medical professional degree courses that also include Pharmacy. For the students who wish to make career in Engineering (BE and BTech) need to clear MHT CET (PCM) and the students who plan to opt for Medical (MBBS, BDMS, BUMS, BAMS, BHMS, Para Medical or B Pharmacy courses) should appear and pass MHT CET (PCB). As per the Maharashtra CET Cell notification , the MHT CET 2025 (PCM) will be held from April 19 to 27, 2025, and the MHT CET 2025 (PCB) for this year will be held from April 09 to 17, 2025. Direct link to apply for MHT CET 2025 Candidates should note that the Maharashtra CET Cell has launched a new website for registration and information website for Common Entrance Tests this year. Follow the steps given below to apply for MHT CET 2025. Click here to go to official MHT CET 2025 Registration Website: cetcell.mahacet.org Click on the link marked as "CET (Examination) Portal for 2025-26 Click on the link marked with "New User? Register". Read all instructions carefully and click on OK. Select Type of Registration - Aadhaar on Non Aadhaar. Fill the Personal Information, Contact Information, Reservation, Bank Account details, Education 6. Details and Details required for MHT-CET 2025. Enter and save for future reference an appropriate Password. Enter Security Key Click on Register button. Candidates should note that they need to pay the MHT CET exam fees in online mode to confirm their registration. "Fee should be paid only in Online Mode. No offline payment will be accepeted", the CET Cell said. MHT CET 2025 Syllabus Marks obtained in MHT CET 2025 (MHT CET PCB and PCM) is considered for admission in various Engineering, Medical and Pharmacy courses. Students who clear the Class 12 or HSC exams are eligible to appear in MHT CET. Candidates should note that like previous year, there will not be Negative Marking System and the difficulty level of the entrance exam will be at par with JEE Main and NEET, the Maharashtra CET Cell said. There will be no Negative Marking. However, difficulty level will be at par with JEE Main for Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, whereas difficulty level for Biology will be at par with NEET, the CET Cell said. MHT CET 2025 Paper Pattern The Maharashtra CET Cell said the MHT CET questions will be based on the syllabus of State Council of Educational Research and Training, Maharashtra. Approximately 20% weightage will be given to Class 11 curriculum and 80% weightage will be given to Class 12 syllabus while setting the MHT CET 2025 Question Papers, the CET Cell said. MHT CET 2025 will consist of three question papers of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ). Each paper will be of 100 marks, it said. The questions will be mainly application based, the CET Cell added. The duration of the exams will be 90 minutes. Mathematics paper will have a total of 50 questions of 2 marks each whereas Physics, Chemistry and Biology papers will have 100 questions of 1 mark each. The CET Cell has not released the date and time to start MHT CET 2025 registration. MHT CET 2024 (last year) was held in April and May, 2024 in online mode on multiple dates. The MHT CET result last year was declared on June 16, 2024. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra CET Cell has started online registration for MAH MCA CET 2025 to be held on March 23, 2025. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Arzu Aliyeva, Head of the Baku Media Center, visited the DOST Center for Inclusive Development and Creativity, Trend reports. Sahil Babayev, Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, provided information about the centers activities. The center, established under the initiative of First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, focuses on the creative potential, rehabilitation, and social integration of persons with disabilities, members of martyr families, and other vulnerable groups. Opened three years ago, the DOST Center is the first and largest inclusive creativity and development space in the South Caucasus. Over the past period, more than 600 individuals have received services, including social-psychological support, and over 100 events have been held. Currently, 156 beneficiaries are participating in various training programs. The center also operates a branch, DOST House, in Ismayilli. The beneficiaries' handicrafts have been displayed at several international exhibitions, including the "Art Pavilion" in the Green Zone at COP29. During their visit, Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva viewed handicrafts made by children from vulnerable groups involved in culinary training. The children presented sweets they had made on the theme of "New Year." Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva also reviewed the training process and creative works in studios such as sound recording, floristry, artistic carving, carpet weaving, ceramics, and visual arts. Additionally, they watched a performance by the capoeira trainer and beneficiaries. Beneficiaries and "Inclusive DOST" volunteers showcased clothing samples created in the center's studios. A concert program, dedicated to December 31 World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year holidaywas presented, featuring performances by trainers and beneficiaries, accompanied by the Center's Inclusive Camera Orchestra and Inclusive Ensemble. BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. A rally dedicated to December 31, World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day, took place in Times Square, New York, Trend reports. The event was organized by the Azerbaijani-American Youth Federation (AAYF) with the support of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan. One of the central LED screens in Times Square showcased unique video materials highlighting Azerbaijan's history, rich national traditions, territorial integrity, and featuring the state flag, national costumes, and dances. AAYF activists, including Azerbaijani students in the U.S., engaged with tourists and New York residents, sharing the significance of the event. The rally is set to run throughout the day. Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday described the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the CPEC-5Cs (Corridors) framework as two golden opportunities for Pakistan to transform its 5Es framework into a reality ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday described the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the CPEC-5Cs (Corridors) framework as two golden opportunities for Pakistan to transform its 5Es framework into a reality. The SIFC and CPEC corridors are very well aligned with our 5Es (Exports, Equity and Empowerment, E-Pakistan, Environment & Climate Change, and Energy and Infrastructure) framework, and are helpful in its implementation, he said while giving a presentation on Uraan Pakistan 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan (2024-29). Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif unveiled Uraan Pakistan the homegrown National Economic Plan (2024-29), a journey to a trillion-dollar economy by 2035, here at a ceremony. Elaborating the opportunities, he said that more and more foreign investment could be attracted through the SIFC, with anticipated investment flows of $29 billion by friendly countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Azerbaijan, and Kuwait. The second opportunity, he said, was the five Cs (Growth Corridor, Livelihood Enhancing Corridor, Innovation Corridor, Green Corridor, and Opening-Up Corridors) under the second phase of the CPEC. The minister said Pakistans economy stood at a critical crossroads, dealing with a number of deep-rooted challenges like declining growth, poor export performance, political instability, lack of policy continuity, fiscal and current account deficits, a fractured socio-economic platform, an overly regulated business environment, population explosion, and the youth bulge, emerging shifts in the industrial revolution of 4.0 and 5.0, climate change vulnerability, inefficiency and unaffordability of energy, and widening social disparities, all of which needed to be addressed effectively. Ahsan Iqbal regretted that the federal governments resources were being used primarily for debt servicing, adding that it was essential to increase the existing resources, tax revenue and exports so that self-reliance could be achieved. He said no country could progress without developing its human resources, noting that Pakistan was far behind in South Asia when comparing economic indicators, human resource development and digital transformation figures with other countries. The minister advocated adopting a transformative strategy, grounded in the 5Es framework, unlocking its full economic potential, which could enable the country to become a one trillion-dollar economy by 2035 and a three-trillion-dollar economy by 2047. Under the 5Es framework, he said, the first pillar was exports, which needed to be increased to build foreign exchange reserves, with a goal of growing exports from $30 billion to $100 billion over the next eight years. This will include Pakistan in the worlds leading economies. Under this segment of the 5Es, he said macroeconomic reforms for export-led economic growth would be implemented, along with efforts to augment productivity, quality, and innovation for global competitiveness, improve the investment climate, diversify the product mix and market access, promote SMEs, entrepreneurship, and cluster-based development, and enhance the national brand Made in Pakistan. The key target is to achieve $60 billion in yearly exports by prioritizing IT, manufacturing, agriculture, industries, minerals, manpower, and the blue economy, he added. Similarly, he said, under the E-Pakistan initiative, the national economy would be technology-driven by improving digital infrastructure, developing a startup and VC funding ecosystem, building training, skill-building, and freelancing, establishing an artificial intelligence framework, and enhancing cyber-security capabilities. On the third E Environment (Water and Food Security), he said water security would be ensured through integrated water resource management, enhancing food safety and security through Green Revolution 2.0, adapting to climate change, strengthening disaster mitigation responses and recovery, and promoting reforestation. Commenting on the fourth E (Energy and Infrastructure), the minister highlighted the importance of transitioning to green energy solutions, developing an efficient and affordable energy infrastructure, promoting multi-modal regional connectivity for access to Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and African markets, harnessing Pakistans mining potential, and driving innovative financing for infrastructure projects on a public-private partnership model. The first pillar of the 5Es framework, he said, focused on reforms for quality and expanded universal access to education through curriculum improvements, teacher training, examination system reforms, and technology adoption. Additionally, he said, the framework emphasized increased health coverage and improved health quality, empowering youth, women, minorities, and vulnerable groups, and ensuring social protection. The minister announced the launch of a Champions of Reforms programme, encouraging capable Pakistani citizens to participate with their respective skills. Furthermore, he said a Pakistan Centennial Lab was being established with a mandate to deliver a Vision-2047 road-map within one year in collaboration with top minds. It will provide a complete road-map for where Pakistan will stand when it marks 100 years of its creation. (@FahadShabbir) Pakistan and Asian Development Bank (ADB) here on Tuesday signed a $200 million loan agreement for Power Distribution Strengthening Project ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Pakistan and Asian Development Bank (ADB) here on Tuesday signed a $200 million loan agreement for Power Distribution Strengthening Project. The agreement was signed by Secretary Economic Affairs Division, Dr. Kazim Niaz and ADB Deputy Country Director, Asad Aleem, according to press release issued by EAD. The project will initially support three distribution companiesLahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), and Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO)through advanced metering infrastructure, data management systems, and asset performance management system (APMS). On this occasion, Secretary Dr. Kazim Niaz emphasized timely and efficient utilization of ADB loan and urged all concerned, in particular the DISCOs, to ensure completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe. Secretary further expressed appreciation for ADB's role as a reliable development partner, and its continued support in Pakistans critical power sector. He said, the project was designed to upgrade and modernize power distribution system with a focus on minimizing substantial energy losses during distribution. On the occasion, Asad Aleem expressed gratitude for government of Pakistans proactive engagement and support towards this project. He assured that ADB would continue to work closely with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and other stakeholders to ensure its support aligns with Pakistans development priorities. ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 31st Dec, 2024) President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent New Year greetings for 2025 to Their Highnesses and Majesties, Presidents, Kings and Princes of countries around the world, wishing them continued health and prosperity for their nations. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to the leaders and prime ministers of various countries. (@Abdulla99267510) Punjab Environmental Protection Agency formally issues a notification regarding ban on fireworks LAHORE: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Dec 31st, 2024) A complete ban was imposed on fireworks in Lahore on eve of New Year's night on Tuesday night (today). Punjab Environmental Protection Agency formally issued a notification regarding ban on fireworks. Deputy Commissioner Lahore Syed Musa Rizvi said that no fireworks would be allowed on the occasion of the New Year. The strict actions would be taken without discrimination in case of violations. The notification was issued in light of the concerns about the air pollution. He further mentioned that the district administration is working to combat smog, and the citizens should cooperate in this regard. The special care should be taken to protect children, the elderly and people with health conditions from the harmful effects of smog. Ensuring public health is the top priority, said the DC. The Lahore DC said that the air pollution could lead to health issues among citizens, and the strict measures are being taken to ensure a clean and healthy environment. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage and Culture Attaullah Tarar said on Tuesday that the prime ministers homegrown economic reforms package will significantly improve citizens lives, stimulate growth, and strengthen the economy. In an exclusive statement regarding the prime ministers five-year National Economic Transformational Plan 2024-29, titled Udan Pakistan: Homegrown National Economic Plan, Tarar revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will unveil the ambitious agenda today. Tarar stated that Pakistan has moved from the verge of default to stability and is now on the path to progress. He expressed gratitude, highlighting improvements in all economic indicators. Describing the Home-Grown Economic Agenda as a reform-driven plan centered on Made in Pakistan, Tarar stressed its vital role in fostering economic growth and bringing positive change to the people of Pakistan. The economic reform agenda is designed to accelerate the countrys development and ensure the prosperity of its citizens. (@FahadShabbir) Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has congratulated the nation on the advent of the new year and expressed the hope that the year ahead would prove to be a year of development, stability and peace for the country LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has congratulated the nation on the advent of the new year and expressed the hope that the year ahead would prove to be a year of development, stability and peace for the country. In his message on the eve of the new year here on Tuesday, he said "We, at the beginning of the new year, must renew our resolve to take the country to the place it was created for. We pray to Allah that in the new year, terrorism will be eradicated from the country. " He paid tributes to the martyrs of security forces who laid down their lives for the country. He also prayed for the Palestinian and Kashmiri people that their sufferings would be reduced and they would be blessed with freedom. The Governor said that he also appeals to the opposition to take the path of dialogue instead of chaos and disorder in the new year. He said that the public, especially the youth should refrain from aerial firing, one-wheeling . ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Speakers at a day-long pre-conference seminar titled 'Elimination of Interest from the Economy: Sustainable Islamic Banking and Investment Practices' have called for institutionalizing the Islamic social finance. They emphasized the need for taking practical steps to eliminate riba (interest) in light of the 26th Constitutional Amendment and the recent decision of the Federal Shariat Court. The speakers stated, "Eliminating riba from the country requires a movement and results will only be achieved if everyone actively participate in this struggle." They cited the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) statement condemning those who take, give, document, or witness interest-based transactions, declaring them equally sinful. Addressing the seminar, Justice Dr. Muhammad Anwar of the Federal Shariat Court said, "Eliminating riba is an integral part of our faith." He urged that we must not consider the consequences of ending interest but instead align the financial system with Allah's commands. He praised the Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies at Allama Iqbal Open University for initiating this vital dialogue and called on other universities to raise awareness about this critical issue. Justice Dr. Anwar congratulated the Dean of the Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof. Dr. Mohiuddin Hashmi, on organizing the seminar and suggested hosting another dialogue on this topic before the International Conference on Islamic Finance scheduled for April. Dr. Ahmed Khalid, Dean of the Faculty of business Administration at Brunei Darussalam University, presented his paper on Islamic finance. Prof. Dr. Mohiuddin Hashmi elaborated on the objectives of the seminar, stated, "This dialogue on eliminating riba will continue and serves as a precursor to the upcoming International Conference in April." He highlighted that the Open University had established a department of Islamic Finance offering a four-year BS program, diploma programs, publishing a research journal, and organizing international conferences on Islamic finance. Other speakers included Sahibzada Muhammad Qamarul Haq, Principal of Jamia Muhammadi Sharif; Hafiz Atif Waheed from Al-Quran academy, DHA Phase II, Lahore; and Advocate Qaiser Imam from Islamabad High Court. BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi sent a letter of condolences to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in connection with the tragic loss of life as a result of the crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane near the city of Aktau, flying from Baku to Grozny on December 25, Trend reports. "Excellency, We are truly saddened by the news about the tragic plane crash on 25 December 2024, in which precious lives were lost and many were injured. On behalf of the Government and People of the Republic of Suriname, I extend sympathy and sincere condolences to the Government and People of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, who have lost their loved ones. It is our hope that the injured passengers will have a speedy and full recovery. May the Almighty give you and your People the strength to endure this tragedy. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem," the letter reads. BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Yunnan Land and Resources Vocational College, China, in collaboration with the Punjab Vocational Training Council (PVTC) of Pakistan, successfully conducted five short-term vocational training sessions for over 400 attendance at the China-Pakistan Resource and Environmental International College from Dec 16 to 20, which is part of the joint China-Pakistan dual-degree vocational education program. The training covered various key areas, including workplace etiquette, cross-border e-commerce, and financial management. The objective was to enhance the knowledge and skills of Pakistani youth in specific fields, improving their career competitiveness and cross-cultural communication abilities. This initiative further strengthens Sino-Pakistani cooperation in vocational education and talent development, China Economic Net (CEN) reported on Tuesday. Since its establishment in 2023, the China-Pakistan Resource and Environmental International College has enrolled 24 international students in geological surveys and mineral exploration, and 17 students in engineering surveying. According to sources, this training represents the second phase of online vocational training for overseas youth talent under the college's China-Pakistan program, bringing the total number of trained participants to nearly 800. Leveraging an international cloud education platform, these programs are designed to cultivate local talents who are equipped with both theoretical and practical skills to serve international enterprises. APP/asg The Dubai Logistics Academy has received accreditation for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) from the United Kingdom, a prestigious certification that affirms the academys commitment to meeting global standards and requirements in training and professional development. Dubai (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Dec, 2024) The Dubai Logistics Academy has received accreditation for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) from the United Kingdom, a prestigious certification that affirms the academys commitment to meeting global standards and requirements in training and professional development. Obtaining the internationally recognized CPD accreditation is a strategic milestone that enhances the standing of Dubai Logistics Academy as a reputable academic institution under Dubai Customs. It positions the academy as a trusted academic destination, offering programs and courses based on best practices. This contributes to the preparation of skilled professionals and leaders equipped to meet the demands of both local and global labor markets, aligning with the vision and directives of the UAEs leadership to develop the capabilities of Emirati youth through professional education and field training at the highest levels. The goal is to actively participate in sustainable development efforts and achieve the targets of Dubai's social agenda, D33, which complements the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, also known as D33, in a way that meets the aspirations of the Dubai community and responds to its ambitions. Mohammed Al Ghaffari, Executive Director, Human Resources Division at Dubai Customs, stated, "This accreditation adds significant value to the Dubai Logistics Academys track record, enhancing the value of the certificates issued by the academy. These certificates are now recognized not only at the local level but also internationally. This recognition offers a substantial competitive edge to trainees aiming to work or develop their skills in logistics, supply chain management, and customs administration. " He also emphasized, "We will work with our strategic partners in the coming period to ensure that national talent in the UAE benefits from this new global accreditation. The academy spares no effort in collaborating with local institutions and companies, aiming to achieve the ultimate goal of establishing this leading academic and professional institution to enhance the UAE's national readiness and elevate the professional expertise of Emirati human capital." He added, "The accredited training programs at Dubai Logistics Academy include a wide range of courses designed to meet the needs of various sectors, including supply chain management, freight and transportation, warehouse and storage management, logistics planning, leadership and soft skills programs, and customs science programs." Al Ghaffari noted that global data and economic trends confirm the steady growth of the logistics sector, as well as supply chains, trade, and freight industries. This calls for a proactive approach with innovative visions and initiatives that keep pace with this rapid development to support the knowledge-based national economy and reinforce Dubai's position as a global hub for these vital sectors. The CPD Standards Office is a leading UK institution for accrediting continuous professional development programs. It is renowned for providing reliable standards and comprehensive reviews of training programs to ensure their quality and professional effectiveness, enjoying global recognition among educational institutions and multinational corporations. Chisinau, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Jan, 2025) Ukraine's decision to turn off the taps keeping Russian gas flowing via its territory to Europe has already sown trouble in the continent's east, with Moldova declaring a state of emergency and Slovakia threatening Kyiv with retaliation. Under a five-year deal signed in 2019 Ukraine had allowed Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory. But that agreement is set to expire in the new year with Kyiv unwilling to extend it as a result of Moscow's invasion. Although Europe has fought to wean itself off dependence on Russian gas since President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, several eastern European states still look to Moscow for much of their energy needs. That represents an ongoing income stream for the Kremlin which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky wishes to dry up. Almost a third of the Russian gas sold to Europe is transported via Kyiv's territory, said Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Institute's Energy Centre. The remainder is transported via a pipeline under the Black Sea to Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary, or else by shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG). But Tuesday's data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025. - Moldova 'energy blackmail' - The situation is at its most critical in Moldova, which borders Ukraine and has to contend with Russian-backed separatists at home. The tiny nation had already introduced a 60-day state of emergency earlier this month in anticipation of Kyiv's expected cut. Then on Saturday, Russia's Gazprom announced it too would halt gas deliveries due to a dispute over debt, sparking furious accusations of "oppressive tactics" from Moldova's prime minister. In the capital Chisinau, where most of the festive light displays will be snuffed out, some residents voiced their fear of what comes next. "It's terrible, nobody knows what's going to happen. I've bought some candles and a generator," Cristina, a 21-year-old student who refused to give her surname, told AFP. Gazprom had already reduced its deliveries to Moldova since the beginning of the invasion, with the Russian company solely supplying the unrecognised breakaway state of Transnistria. But the Moscow-backed region's power station still provides some two-thirds of the electricity consumed across the country. "The Kremlin has once again resorted to energy blackmail in order to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and undermine our European path," said Moldova's President Maia Sandu. The pro-European politician was reelected in November after a vote marred by accusations of Russian interference. Sandu offered humanitarian aid for the residents of breakaway Transnistria, who would otherwise find themselves without heating in the depths of midwinter. But the local authorities refused, said Alexandru Flenchea, a former government official and conflict resolution expert specialising in the region. In Russia's destabilisation strategy, "Transnistria is nothing more than collateral damage", Flenchea argued. Phuc-Vinh agreed, charging that Putin was using gas as a "geopolitical weapon" to "undermine the region, feed the resentments of the population to influence support for Ukraine and sow the seeds of discord across Europe". Moldova's government has responded with drastic measures to limit energy consumption, notably limits on lighting in public buildings and the use of lifts. It also intends to make up the shortfall by buying electricity from neighbouring Romania. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Germany is set to start 2025 with an increasingly heated election campaign attracting attempts at influence not only on the part of Russia but also from Berlin's traditional ally, the United States Berlin, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Germany is set to start 2025 with an increasingly heated election campaign attracting attempts at influence not only on the part of Russia but also from Berlin's traditional ally, the United States. An early general election has been called for February 23 after Chancellor Olaf Scholz's unruly three-party coalition government collapsed last month, unable to agree on solutions for the country's ailing industries. While fears over foreign interference in politics are nothing new in Europe's biggest economy, this election looks set to see an unprecedented pincer movement from East and West. Intelligence chiefs have for months been raising the alarm about Moscow's attempts to meddle in German politics, principally in order to weaken Berlin's support for Ukraine in its fightback against Russia's invasion. But while Russian influence is mostly covert and exerted through "hybrid" means, the interventions from the United States are out in the open and concern themes such as the economy and migration. However, both sets of influences bolster one party in particular: the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which scored 20 percent in one poll published Tuesday, double its share in the last election in 2021. - Musk 'meddling' - German politicians have looked on aghast in recent days as Elon Musk, the world's richest man and influential advisor to president-elect Donald Trump, used his X platform to back the AfD. A spokesman for AfD leader Alice Weidel told the Spiegel newspaper that her team and Musk's were in "regular contact" although the two hadn't yet spoken directly. In his New Year's address on Tuesday Scholz hit back, saying it was voters and "not the owners of social media" who would decide the result of the election. Just hours earlier Musk had fired off a new volley of posts in the direction of Germany's leadership, branding President Frank-Walter Steinmeier "an anti-democratic tyrant" and predicting an "epic victory" for the AfD. The co-leader of Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD) Lars Klingbeil accused Musk of "trying the same thing as Vladimir Putin", the Russian president. Klingbeil told the Funke media group that both Musk and Putin "want Germany to be weakened and pushed into chaos". Even the conservative CDU/CSU party, leading in opinion polls on 32 percent, has angrily rejected Musk's moves as "interfering and presumptuous". Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU/CSU and the likely next chancellor, said he could not remember "a comparable case of meddling in the election campaign of an allied country in the history of Western democracy". As well as his series of posts on X, Musk also wrote a pro-AfD opinion piece last week in the conservative Welt daily, prompting the title's opinion editor to resign. Political scientist Hajo Funke told AFP called the piece a "scandal" and said it marked a break with the previous opposition to the far-right on the part of the Springer group, which publishes Welt. - New Year hangover - Being subject to such tactics from the United States is a shock for many Germans still attached to the post-war transatlantic alliance, says Hajo Funke. "We still have the image that America is the model for our democracy," he said. According to Michael Broening of the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung think tank, Musk's actions indicate "Team Trump is now returning the favour for Germany's outspoken anti-Trump rhetoric during the US election season". "Germany is headed for a New Year's hangover but without the preceding party," he told AFP. Meanwhile Germany's domestic intelligence service wrote in a recent report that Russia has been active in spreading online disinformation and conducting cyberattacks with the aim of "weakening confidence in democracy" and undermining support for NATO and the EU -- the latter of which the AfD wants to leave. But how far the AfD will benefit from these external interventions remains to be seen. Hajo Funke thinks the impact of Musk will be "limited" thanks to the widespread pro-Russian attitude among AfD voters making them sceptical of messages emanating from the United States. However, political communication expert Johannes Hillje told Spiegel that Musk's image as a successful entrepreneur could help the AfD reach traditional conservative voters who have been sceptical of the party's economic policies. "The AfD couldn't have wished for a better helper for the campaign," he said. Russian gas is not scheduled to flow via Ukraine to Europe on January 1, data from Ukraine's gas pipeline operator showed Tuesday, as a key transit deal between Moscow and Kyiv nears its end Kyiv, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Dec, 2024) Russian gas is not scheduled to flow via Ukraine to Europe on January 1, data from Ukraine's gas pipeline operator showed Tuesday, as a key transit deal between Moscow and Kyiv nears its end. Ukraine has been allowing Russia to pipe gas to Europe via its territory under a five-year deal signed in 2019, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out extending it amid Russia's invasion. It will expire early on Wednesday. Data from Ukrainian operator OGTSU showed deliveries via the only entry point for Russian gas into Ukraine dropping to zero as of January 1, 2025. Meanwhile, European natural gas prices climbed above 50 Euros ($51.78) per megawatt hour for the first time in over a year on Tuesday as buyers in Eastern Europe braced for the halt in supplies. Russian gas accounted for less than 10 percent of the European Union's gas imports in 2023. But some EU members still depend largely on Russian gas for geographical and political reasons. EU and NATO members Hungary and Slovakia have maintained close ties with the Kremlin despite the invasion. The halt in Russian gas transit through Ukraine will see countries dip deeper into their reserves and seek to import more liquefied natural gas (LNG). Colder weather, plus overcast skies and weak winds that have stymied production of renewable energy have seen countries dip further into their natural gas reserves than last year. EU nations on average have their gas storage facilities 73 percent full, considerably below the 86 percent at the same point last year, according to the Aggregated Gas Storage Inventory (AGSI) platform. A colder-than-anticipated winter or further delays in LNG projects "could see prices tighten further throughout the coming months", getting closer to 60 euro per megawatt hour, according to Capital.com analyst Daniela Sabin Hathorn. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys reached out to his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, to express condolences over the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near Aktau during the Baku-Grozny flight, Trend reports. Budrys extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to those injured. He expressed regret that the ministers' first official interaction was prompted by such a tragic incident and assured Lithuania's readiness to assist in the victims' rehabilitation and the investigation of the crash. Minister Bayramov thanked his Lithuanian counterpart for the support, noting that the investigation is under the direct oversight of Azerbaijans leadership, with a state commission established to uncover the causes of the tragedy. The ministers also discussed regional and international security issues, as well as opportunities for bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Highlighting the upcoming 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Lithuania in 2025, they reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Trinidad and Tobago on Monday declared a state of emergency due to a spike in murders by criminal groups, a move that grants police the ability to conduct searches and arrests without a warrant over the next two days. "The circumstances warranting the declaration of the public emergency are based on the advice of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service to the National Security Council of heightened criminal activity which endangers the public safety," Prime Minister Keith Rowley's office said in a statement. Attorney General Stuart Young said the country recorded 61 murders in December, bringing the year's total up to 623 homicides, an increase from 577 homicides recorded in 2023 and 599 in 2022. Young, speaking at a press conference in the capital Port of Spain, said the public emergency would not include a curfew or restrict people's movements, to minimize the economic impact of the declaration. The authorization for police to carry out searches and arrests without a warrant may be extended up to seven days by a judge, Young said. At the same press conference, Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds called the spike in violent murders "an epidemic" for the country of 1.4 million residents, with 551 shootings recorded this year, as of December 26. Recent incidents of violence included a man shot and killed after leaving a police station in Port of Spain on Saturday, and a shooting in Laventille, Trinidad, on Sunday that killed five. A state of emergency had previously been declared for the same reason in 2011, but the application was limited to "hotspots" of crime. An uneasy calm hangs over Chad, where the opposition is calling for an immediate end to the countrys transitional government and the cancellation of the Dec. 29 general elections, which the opposition says were highly boycotted. Chad's elections management body has pledged to count the votes and declare the results, saying irregularities cannot influence the outcome. Assane Bairra, vice president of Chad's National Agency for the Management of Elections (ANGE), said vote counting is under way after the central African states local, provincial and parliamentary elections on Sunday. The elections were scheduled to end Chad's three-year transition period following the death of longtime President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. The late presidents son, Mahamat Idriss Deby, was declared the winner of the presidential election in May. Provisional results for the latest polls are expected by Jan. 15, ANGE said. Assane said ANGE has successfully executed its mission of ending the transitional period by organizing free, fair and transparent elections. The elections body said about 36% of Chad's estimated 8.3 million registered voters took part in Sunday's poll. But opposition parties maintain that turnout was much lower, saying civilians respected opposition calls for a massive boycott. Avocksouma Djona is spokesperson for Chad's Political Actors Consultation Group, or GCAP, a coalition of several dozen political parties. At a press conference on Monday in the capital, N'djamena, said more than 90% of about 8.3 million registered voters adhered to GCAPs boycott calls. They did so, he said, because civilians learned from Chad's May 6 presidential elections that Deby wants to extend his late fathers long rule. Avocksouma said Chadians are angry because Deby is a dictator who silences all critical voices. In a statement Monday, Succes Masra, president of The Transformers, one of Chad's leading opposition political parties, called for a new transition. It should be marked by truth, dialogue and reconciliation to lay the foundations of a stable and inclusive political system, he said. Masra, who served as prime minister under transitional President Deby, said ongoing tensions in the central African state may degenerate into violence and social strife. Avocksouma said he is certain that despite the massive boycott, ANGE will still proclaim Deby's ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement as the winners of the Dec. 29 elections. Ahead of the vote, opposition parties accused Deby of rigging the elections, a charge Deby denies. Yamingue Betinbaye is a political analyst at the University of N'djamena. He spoke to VOA on Monday via a messaging group. The analyst told VOA that although the opposition has legitimate claims that the boycott was massive and there were irregularities including the stuffing of ballot boxes to rig elections for Deby, it is unlikely that the polls will be annulled as the opposition requests. The Chadian government said calls for the elections to be annulled and for a new transition are intended to cause chaos and sink Chad into violence. The government said civilians should not obey opposition calls to destabilize their country by going out onto the streets to protest. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou arrived Monday in the Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte to unveil a recovery plan three weeks after Cyclone Chido brought devastation. Bayrou, recently appointed prime minister, also updated the death toll to 39 but urged caution, saying the final number could range from "a few dozen to a few hundred." Days after the cyclone, Mayotte's prefect, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, had warned of the possibility of "several hundred or even a few thousand" deaths. Bayrou's visit follows that of French President Emmanuel Macron as some Mayotte residents have alleged that the French government had long neglected them. The prime minister said a draft emergency law aiming to rebuild Mayotte within two years will be submitted to parliament in January. And he said local authorities agreed to ban the rebuilding of informal settlements, home to an unknown number of migrants from African nations in the region who hope to make their way to Europe. Many of the makeshift homes were torn apart by the storm. Bayrou outlined plans to restore electricity to all homes by late January, supported by 200 workers and emergency generators. Water production is expected to reach pre-cyclone levels by January 6, with upgrades to the distribution network set for completion by mid-2025. He also announced the deployment of 200 Starlink antennas for emergency communications. Education also faces disruption, with many schools destroyed. Classes will resume January 13, with special provisions for exam students. Temporary schooling in mainland France is also being considered. In Mozambique, also hit by Cyclone Chido, the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management said Sunday that 94 people had been killed. Malawi's presidential office said the death toll there had risen to 13. Tens of thousands of pro-Europe demonstrators rallied outside Georgia's parliament Tuesday night to celebrate the New Year, continuing month-long protests against the government. The Black Sea nation has been in the grip of an unprecedented constitutional crisis since the ruling Georgian Dream Party widely perceived as increasingly repressive claimed victory in October's parliamentary polls, which the pro-Western opposition denounced as rigged. The government's Nov. 28 decision to suspend EU accession talks for years triggered daily mass protests that continue to this day. On New Year's Eve, tens of thousands gathered outside parliament in central Tbilisi waving EU and Georgian flags the latest outpouring of popular unity in the face of what critics say is the government's authoritarian pro-Russian tilt. Many demonstrators brought food to share and set up a festive table spanning dozens of meters on Tbilisi's main avenue decorated with Christmas lights, transforming the 34th consecutive day of protests into a New Year celebration. "Tonight once again proves that the Georgian people will not allow a pro-Russian government to turn our country into a Russian-style despotism," said one demonstrator, 42-year-old Ilia Darsavelidze. "[Russian President Vladimir] Putin's puppets in Tbilisi are powerless against the will of our entire nation. We will reclaim our rightful place in Europe." Georgia's outgoing President Salome Zurabishvili at loggerheads with the ruling party joined the demonstrators. "2024 was the year of our unity, and 2025 will be the year of our victory," she told the crowd. Zurabishvili's mandate was meant to end on Dec. 29, when her successor and Georgian Dream loyalist Mikheil Kavelashvili was inaugurated as Georgia's next figurehead president, following a controversial election process. But Zurabishvili refused to step down, saying she remains the country's "only legitimate leader" until October's election is rerun. She has earlier declared the new parliament and government "illegitimate," while opposition parties have refused to enter the new legislature. In the first 10 days of protests, riot police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators some of whom threw fireworks and stones. The Interior Ministry reported more than 400 arrests, while the country's top human rights official, ombudsman Levan Ioseliani, and Amnesty International have accused security forces of "torturing" those detained. The reported police brutality has drawn growing international condemnation, with Washington and several European countries sanctioning Georgian Dream officials. The foreign ministers of Germany, France and Poland said on Tuesday that Georgian authorities should consider fresh elections as a way out of the country's political crisis. The Georgian Dream Party's government faces accusations of an authoritarian, pro-Russian shift that has undermined Georgia's EU bid, a goal enshrined in the constitution and supported by 80% of the population. At least three tourists have died, including one American, after a fire broke out in a hotel near Khao San Road, a popular tourist area in Bangkok. Just after 9 p.m. local time Sunday, Thai firefighters were called to The Ember Hotel on Tanee Road to put out the blaze. Seventy-five people were staying at the hotel, but only around 40 guests were in the building at the time of the fire. Police are investigating the incident, and questions have turned to the safety of the hotel and that of other accommodations in the area. An American man, Freeman Timothy Jr., 35, and a Ukrainian man, Tuzov Victor, 27, both died at the hospital, while a Brazilian woman, Carolina Pimentel Canales de Albuquerque, 24, died at the scene. Seven others were hospitalized with injuries, including two Thai men, two German men and a Japanese man, according to authorities. The six-story Ember Hotel is near the tourist hotspot of Khao San Road, known for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, market vendors, restaurants and bars. But outside the hotel on Tanee Road, the atmosphere was somber. The smell of smoke lingered in the air. Tuk-tuk drivers and tourists gazed up at the holes punctured in the fifth-floor windows. The property has been cordoned off. Mickey, who declined to give his surname as the police investigation is ongoing, is a hotel employee. He said the fire began on the fifth floor toward the back of the building. I was at home when the fire happened, he told VOA. But after investigating how the fire started, the fire happened in guest room 511. No [cigarette] smoke. The guests informed [us] they didnt use any electricity. The electronic devices in the room were [a] hair dryer, kettle, light socket with the key card. The room sizes start from 20 square meters. The guests are Korean, but the three persons werent in the room, he said. Mickey said the Brazilian woman who died was found in Room 511. We have no idea why she was in the room. Her room was 502 with her boyfriend. The police are now doing a special investigation. The hotel opened in 2022, but there has been no issue like this before, Mickey added. Representatives of The Ember Hotel declined a VOA request for further comment. Why all the guests did not immediately evacuate is unclear. A hotel employee said the alarm went off when the fire started. Authorities say 34 people went to the roof of the building before being evacuated via fire truck ladders. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told reporters Sunday that the fire had been put out quickly and that he had ordered the hotel to shut down pending the investigation. The hotel has two fire exits and two fire extinguishers but no sprinkler system, which isnt required because of the hotels small size, he said. The fire happened next to NapPark Hostel, a popular backpacker accommodation that attracts thousands of guests a year. Chan Holland is the owner of Canary Travel Thailand, a travel agency across the road from The Ember. Its lucky the fire didnt spread out right next to NapPark. Now people will be worried about safety standards of hotels in Thailand. Hotel rooms without sprinklers? That would worry me too," she told VOA. The Bangkok Post newspaper reported that Natthriya Thaweevong, Thailands permanent secretary for tourism and sports, said the government would pay about $29,300 (1 million baht) in compensation for each death case and $14,600 (500,000 baht) for each injury case. But Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor for marketing communications at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, told VOA that nothing is clear yet on the compensation, and that on Tuesday he would be going to the hospital to see the injured patients. Thailand is in the middle of welcoming one of its biggest tourist waves in its history. The tourism authority expected nearly 1.6 million foreign tourists to visit the county between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1. Thailand has already welcomed at least 34 million visitors in 2024 and expects a record-breaking year for 2025, with 40 million arrivals forecasted. Sanga Ruangwattankul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association, told The Associated Press the fire may affect the New Years Eve celebrations planned for Tuesday evening. He later told VOA by phone that hotels within the Khao San Road area are not registered, which means they lack proper government safety checks. Some of the hotels dont have licenses. In Khao San area I think around 80% of hotels are not registered," he said. The [Thai] Hotel Association rules and regulations are very difficult. For a three-star hotel, you need to have parking, a staircase next to the fire exit outside the building, and alarms, sprinklers, and everything. If you dont have this and fail to get the license, the government does not come to check them out." Pravit Rojanaphruk, a veteran journalist at Khaosod English in Thailand, said more inspections must be done on hotel buildings to ensure they are safe. Cheap accommodations are possibly if not particularly shoddy when it comes to safety standards, he told VOA. Its time to review the laws on building safety and pay attention to crowded tourist areas like Khao San to improve the safety standards. Other fires have broken out this year in popular tourist hotspots in the Thai capital. In June, a fire killed thousands of animals and destroyed more than 100 shops in Chatuchak Market. And in July, a major fire in Chinatown injured at least two people while dozens were affected by the fiery fumes. No deaths were reported in either blaze. Repeated Israeli attacks on Gazas hospitals and nearby operations have brought Gazas health care system to its knees, according to a report issued Tuesday by the U.N. human rights office. The 19-page report finds, Israels pattern of deadly attacks on and near hospitals has led to the destruction of most hospitals in Gaza, leading to sustained combat in and around many hospitals and pushing the health care system to the brink of total collapse. The situation has deteriorated to a catastrophic level since October 2023, as this already damaged health system has been targeted, resulting in the killing of hundreds of health and medical professionals, authors of the report assert. The report covers the period from Oct. 7, 2023 when Hamas militants launched a terror attack on Israel, killing some 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages to June 30, 2024. Hamas has been designated as a terror group by the United States, Britain and other Western countries. During this period, the report documents at least 136 strikes on at least 27 hospitals and 12 other medical facilities, claiming many casualties among medical staff and civilians and causing significant damage, if not complete destruction of civilian infrastructure. This report graphically details the destruction of the health care system in Gaza, and the extent of killing of patients, staff, and other civilians in these attacks in blatant disregard for international humanitarian and human rights law, Volker Turk, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement coinciding with the publication of the report. He said the report raises serious concerns about Israels compliance with international law. It points out that medical personnel and hospitals are specifically protected under international humanitarian law, provided they do not commit, or are not used to commit, outside their humanitarian function, acts harmful to the enemy. As if the relentless bombing and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza were not enough, the one sanctuary where Palestinians should have felt safe in fact became a death trap, Turk said. The protection of hospitals during warfare is paramount and must be respected by all sides, at all times. Israeli response Israel has vigorously refuted these charges. In an 11-page response, Israels Permanent Mission in Geneva described this fourth thematic report by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights as one of many examples of the inherent obsession of OHCHR with vilifying Israel. It accused the agency of dismissing well-documented evidence of Hamas military activities in health facilities and of its unwillingness to recognize Hamass systemic exploitation of Gazan medical facilities for terror purposes. The Permanent Mission called the methodology employed in OHCHR reports as fundamentally flawed. It criticized the agencys reliance on unreliable sources and justified its attacks on hospitals on the grounds that these health care centers were being used by Palestinian armed groups. There is ample evidence regarding Hamas terror activity in medical facilities, the Permanent Mission stated. Hamas embeds its tunnel system and infrastructure within the premises of medical facilities as a matter of strategy and utilizes them as arms caches and accessible headquarters for its operatives. The OHCHR reports attacks on hospitals have occurred in each of the areas in which the Israeli military has conducted ground operations starting in November 2023 with an attack on Al-Shifa Medical Complex and other hospitals in Gaza City. The attacks continue to this day. The report notes that The appalling destruction wrought by the Israeli militarys attacks on the Kamal Adwan hospital last Friday leaving the population of North Gaza with almost no access to adequate health care reflects the pattern of attacks documented in the report. Reacting to the attack on the Kamal Adwan hospital, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, expressed alarm Monday at the ongoing attacks across the Gaza Strip and the airstrike on Kamal Adwan hospital, warning that the very means of peoples survival are being dismantled. According to the World Health Organization, 15 out of Gazas 36 hospitals remain partially functional, nine in the south and six in the north. The health system is under severe threat, said Tedros Adhanan Gebgreyesus, WHO director-general, noting that hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds. The OHCHR report finds the increasingly limited healthcare system is preventing many of those with trauma injuries from receiving timely and possibly life-saving treatment. It says attacks on hospitals in Gaza also are having serious implications for patients with initially non-fatal conditions, potentially rendering them fatal. Women, especially pregnant women, are suffering gravely. Many women are giving birth with no or minimal pre- and postnatal care, increasing the risk of preventable maternal and child mortality, it said. It added that people with chronic diseases, such as kidney failure, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, also have lost access to their treatment, placing them at risk of worsening health outcomes and death. Authors of the report say, Intentionally directing attacks against hospitals and places where the sick and wounded are treated, provided they are not military objectives and intentionally launching disproportionate attacks, are also war crimes. It added that Under certain circumstances, the deliberate destruction of health care facilities may amount to a form of collective punishment, which would also constitute a war crime. Human rights chief Turk is calling for independent, thorough and transparent investigations of all of these incidents, and full accountability for all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law which have taken place. In response to this appeal, Israels Permanent Mission in Geneva stated, The State of Israel reaffirms its commitment to international law, and remains committed to examining and investigating any exceptional incidents through its established mechanisms. Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, a Democrat from New Jersey, will be sentenced on corruption charges as scheduled at the end of January, and his wife's trial will be moved from January to February, a judge said Monday. U.S. District Judge Sidney H. Stein in Manhattan rejected Menendez's request to delay his sentencing for his conviction on bribery and other charges until his wife finishes her trial on similar charges, possibly sometime in March. The Democrat's lawyers last week requested a new sentencing date on the grounds that the jury chosen to hear the case against his wife, Nadine Menendez, would be tainted if jurors heard about the outcome of the former senator's sentencing during the trial. Menendez, 70, was convicted in July of 16 corruption charges brought by prosecutors who asserted that he used his power in the Senate over a five-year stretch through 2022 to do favors that benefitted three New Jersey businessmen who paid him with gold bars, hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, and a Mercedes-Benz convertible. Two of the businessmen were convicted along with Menendez while a third pleaded guilty, cooperated with the government, and testified against him. Nadine Menendez has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Originally set to stand trial with her husband, her trial was put off after a breast cancer diagnosis led to surgery. Stein on Monday moved her January 21 trial to February 5. Her husband, as scheduled, will be sentenced on January 29. A Malian court jailed a political figure Monday for making critical remarks about the military rulers of neighboring Burkina Faso, a legal source and his family said. Issa Kaou N'Djim, who previously supported Malian junta leader Assimi Goita before distancing himself, made the comments during a program aired on local television station Joliba TV News. N'Djim was sentenced by a court in the capital, Bamako, to two years in prison, one of which was suspended. He was also ordered to pay a fine of 1 million CFA francs ($1,600) by the national anti-cybercrime office, the legal source said. Mali authorities closed Joliba TV News in November because of the remarks and handed the private television station a six-month ban earlier this month. N'Djim's jailing follows the disappearance Saturday morning of another opposition figure, Ibrahim Naby Togola, who was due to hold a news briefing that day. According to a statement from his political party, Togola was abducted by "unidentified armed individuals," then taken to an unknown destination in a black vehicle with tinted windows. The "Call of February 20, 2023 to save Mali " opposition platform, which Togola belonged to, called for his "immediate and unconditional release." Mali and Burkina Faso have been ruled by military regimes since coups in 2020 and 2022, respectively, and are both embroiled in political and security crises. The military-led governments have taken repressive measures against the press, suspending a number of foreign media outlets and imprisoning or silencing journalists or critics. Together with fellow junta-led Niger, they formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) confederation. N'Djim previously was one of the vice presidents of the National Transitional Council (CNT), the legislative body of Mali 's military rulers. He later said he favored a rapid end to the so-called transitional period intended to return power to elected civilians. In December 2021, N'Djim was handed a six-month suspended prison sentence for "undermining the credit of the state," following comments deemed "subversive" on social media. He was dismissed from the CNT and prevented from leaving the country several times. BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Baku sent congratulations on the occasion of December 31 - World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the upcoming New Year, Trend reports. A corresponding message was published on the embassys official Instagram page. "The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Republic of Azerbaijan congratulates the people of Azerbaijan on the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and wishes them a happy, prosperous and peaceful New Year," the congratulations read. A new report on Monday said escalating terrorist bombings and gun attacks in Pakistan resulted in the deaths of more than 1,600 civilians and security personnel in 2024. An independent think tank based in Islamabad released its annual report amid a wave of deadly violence in the country, primarily affecting the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces bordering Afghanistan. Pakistan asserts that outlawed transnational groups have orchestrated violence from Afghan sanctuaries, with their activities intensifying since the Talibans August 2021 takeover of the neighboring country. The Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) stated in its Monday report that 60% of the overall casualties in 2024 were among civilians. It noted that the Pakistani military, intelligence, police and other law enforcement agencies suffered the highest number of terror attacks and fatalities in a decade. According to the report, 685 security personnel have been killed since January 1, the most since Pakistan lost nearly 800 security personnel in militant attacks and counterterrorism operations in 2014. The resurgence of militancy is attributed to two key groups: Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Both organizations, designated as international terrorist organizations by the United Nations and the United States, routinely claim attacks staged against security forces and other targets. TTP is active mainly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while BLA and its allied ethnic Baloch separatist groups conduct insurgent attacks in Balochistan. While the Pakistani government did not immediately respond to the report, an army spokesman addressed a live televised news conference on Friday, revealing that 383 brave officers and soldiers were martyred during counterterrorism operations across Pakistan in 2024. He did not, however, provide further details. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Counter Terrorism Department released a statement Monday reporting that militant attacks and security operations against insurgents resulted in the deaths of nearly 150 provincial police force members, with an additional 230 sustaining injuries. CRSS has documented approximately 250 fatalities among Pakistani security forces, including troops, in Balochistan alone. Remaining fatalities were attributed to Punjab and Sindh provinces, as well as other regions. The nonprofit think tank stated that its report was based on open-source data and official statements. It routinely publishes reports highlighting the security situation in Pakistan and says on its website that the organization is working to promote research and nonpartisan analysis. The Taliban government has denied allegations that Afghan soil is being utilized by individuals permitted to threaten neighboring countries, including Pakistan. Last week, Taliban authorities announced that Pakistani jets had struck several locations within the eastern Afghan border province of Paktika, claiming the strikes resulted in nearly 50 fatalities. The statement identified victims as refugees from Pakistan. While Islamabad has refrained from publicly responding to the alleged airstrikes, Pakistani security officials instantly provided anonymous confirmation of the cross-border bombardment, stating that the strikes targeted TTP hideouts, resulting in the elimination of over two dozen key militants and training infrastructure. The Talibans Defense Ministry on Saturday issued a statement claiming that its border forces retaliated by striking several targets on the Pakistani side of the border. Independent examination of both Pakistani and Afghan claims remains inconclusive. On a frigid morning in Moldova's capital, 39-year-old postal worker Petru Murzin braces for a difficult winter as he fears a looming energy shortage could leave many Moldovans with "no heating, no light." His concerns aren't unfounded. On January 1, Russia's state-owned energy giant Gazprom is set to halt gas supplies to the European Union candidate country over an alleged $709 million debt for past supplies, a figure fiercely disputed by Moldova's pro-Western government, that has accused Moscow of weaponizing energy as a political tool to destabilize the country. "I feel that we've entered a crisis that is quite difficult to resolve which worries me greatly," Murzin told The Associated Press in Chisinau. "Price increases are one thing, but when there is no gas at all, that's something entirely different." The cessation will stop gas flowing to the Kuciurgan power plant, the country's largest, which is situated in the separatist pro-Russian Transnistria region. The gas-operated plant generates electricity that powers a significant portion of Moldova proper. "There will be no heating, no light," Murzin added. "We are entering a very difficult year." Transnistria declares state of emergency Transnistria, which broke away after a short war in 1992 and is not recognized by most countries, also declared its own state of emergency earlier in December, fearing the region will not receive gas supplies. A large majority of Transnistria's 470,000 people speak Russian as their first language and some 200,000 are Russian citizens. On December 13, Moldova's parliament voted in favor of imposing a state of emergency in the energy sector, as the looming crisis threatened to leave the former Soviet republic without sufficient energy this winter, sparking fears it could trigger a humanitarian crisis in Transnistria, where the impact of the gas cutoff could be immediately felt. Many observers have predicted that the looming energy shortage could force residents in Transnistria to travel to Moldova to seek basic amenities to get through winter, a season in which temperatures throughout the country regularly drop below subzero degrees Celsius. Cristian Cantir, a Moldovan associate professor of international relations at Oakland University, said that Moscow is likely trying to exploit a "potential humanitarian crisis in Transnistria to overwhelm Moldova's already-strained resources" to amplify tensions between Chisinau and the region's de facto capital, Tiraspol. "It could stoke fears among the Moldovan electorate of a violent conflict, and give fodder to pro-Russian parties who will accuse Chisinau of being responsible for increased prices for gas and electricity, which will be a major campaign issue" ahead of the country's parliamentary elections in 2025, he said. Chisinau takes steps The unprecedented situation prompted Chisinau last week to implement a series of energy-saving measures beginning January 1, which include reducing lighting in public and commercial buildings by at least 30%, and energy-intensive businesses operating during off-peak hours. "We'll probably have to save power until we have a solution," said Nicoleta Neagu, who is from Moldova but works in Germany. "I hope we'll look at this seriously and not waste power on not-so-useful things." After Gazprom announced it would halt gas flows, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean accused Moscow of using energy "as a political weapon" and said his government does not recognize the debt cited by the Russian energy giant, which he said has been "invalidated by an international audit." "This decision confirms once again the intention of the Kremlin to leave the inhabitants of the Transnistrian region without light and heat in the middle of the winter," he said. For 30-year-old Chisinau resident Iuliana, who did not want to give her surname, power outages would prevent her from doing her online job, which could also be untenable if the heating goes off in the middle of winter in the country of about 2.5 million people. "We're afraid, but we're happy that there's no snow and the temperatures aren't that low and we can turn on the heating maybe only in the evening if we work at an office," she said. "But I work from home and I'll be directly affected." She also noted that Moldova has faced multiple crises in recent years, "But regarding power and gas, it's the first time we face this," she said. 'Energy blackmail' Moldovan President Maia Sandu criticized Russia on Monday for Gazprom's decision and said that the country has gas supplies "for the heating season" and measures will be taken "to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply," adding that plans are also in place to provide humanitarian aid to residents in Transnistria. "The Kremlin is again using energy blackmail in an attempt to destabilize the situation, to influence the 2025 parliamentary elections and to undermine our European journey," she said. "It is important to remain united, show solidarity, and trust in Moldova and its people. And to use energy rationally." Moldova has repeatedly claimed Russia is conducting a vast "hybrid war" against the country by meddling in elections, funding anti-government protests, and running vast disinformation campaigns to try to topple the government and derail the country's EU aspirations. The Kuciurgan plant was privatized in 2004 by Transnistrian officials and later sold to a Russian state-owned company, but Chisinau doesn't recognize the privatization. On Monday, Recean asked the justice minister to review nationalization legislation, to potentially recover "strategic assets that were forcefully taken over." Citing findings by British and Norwegian audit firms, Moldova claims its debt stands close to $8.6 million, a fraction of that claimed by the Russian energy giant. Gazprom said in a statement Saturday that it reserved the right to take further action, including terminating its contract with Moldovagaz, Moldova's main gas operator, in which the Russian company owns a majority stake. In late 2022, months after Russia fully invaded neighboring Ukraine, Moldova suffered major power outages following Russian strikes on Ukraine, which is interconnected to the Kuciurgan plant. When the war next door started, Moldova was entirely dependent on Moscow for natural gas but has since pushed to diversify and expand its energy sources, and now relies on obtaining gas from other European markets. Murzin, the postal worker, is expecting to see large inflows of people from Transnistria crossing the border once the shortage hits. "I think cars will line up for several kilometers at the border," he said. "Many people will come here, hoping for warmth." The 2024 elections in the U.S. highlighted the growing impact of Native American voters, especially in swing states such as Arizona. Home to 22 tribes, Native voters played a key role in that states results. Unfounded claims of voter fraud and election irregularities four years ago triggered a surge of restrictive voting laws across the United States for this years vote, raising concerns about potential harassment and intimidation of voters and poll workers. Exit polls showed a shift in Native American support toward Republican Donald Trump, driven by economic concerns and alignment with his partys traditional values. Biden apologizes for federal boarding school system During his October visit to the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona, President Joe Biden delivered a long-awaited official apology to Native Americans for the Indian boarding school system that severed the family, tribal and cultural ties of thousands of Indian children over multiple generations. I say this with all sincerity: This, to me, is one of the most consequential things I've ever had an opportunity to do in my whole career as president of the United States, Biden said, calling it his solemn responsibility. In a related story, the Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition in May launched the National Indian Boarding School Digital Archive, a public archive of information on boarding schools and students that includes documents, photographs and other ephemera. Supreme Court: Feds must pay for tribal health care programs In a landmark June decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the Indian Health Service (IHS) must fully reimburse tribes for the administrative costs of running their own health care programs. Chief Justice John Roberts explained that if the federal governments position had prevailed opposing payment of administrative costs it would have created a systemic funding shortfall for tribes that chose to manage their own health care programs, thus imposing a penalty for pursuing self-determination. In a dissenting opinion, Justice Brett Kavanaugh argued that the ruling could cost the government as much as $2 billion. The 1975 Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act allows federally recognized tribes to contract with the Indian Health Service to operate their own health care programs, which IHS would otherwise manage. When a tribe opts for this arrangement, IHS provides the funds it would have used to run those programs. Museums, institutions, under pressure to return Native remains The Interior Department issued new regulations in 2024 to improve compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Passed in 1990, it calls on federally funded museums and other institutions to inventory and return to tribal communities all ancestral remains and funerary objects. The new rules cut out a loophole that allowed institutions to hang onto culturally unidentifiable remains and give tribes a greater say in the process. Throughout the year, institutions have made some progress, but as ABC News reported in November, nearly 500 museums and federal agencies have so far failed to identify or make available for repatriation more than 90,000 remains and associated cultural objects. South Dakota governor banned from nine Indian reservations Since taking office in 2019, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has had a tense relationship with the nine tribes in her state. Tensions escalated in January when Noem accused Mexican drug cartels of operating on reservations and then later suggested that tribal leaders were personally benefiting from that drug trade. Oglala Lakota tribal president, Frank Star Comes Out, who had earlier declared a state of emergency over drug use and violence on the Pine Ridge Reservation, accused Noem of being politically motivated and in February became the first of nine tribes to ban her from the reservation. Land Back movement sees some wins The Land Back movement, a push for the return of lands lost to colonization, grew in momentum in 2024, and several tribes regained control of land or ancestral territories. Among the successes, the Yurok Tribe of coastal California signed a memorandum of understanding to co-manage with the National Park Service 50 hectares (125 acres) of land they lost after the California gold rush in the mid-19th century. TheLeech Lake Band of Ojibwe reclaimed more than 4760 hectares (11,000 acres) of ancestral land that the federal government seized from them in the 1940s. And in the largest ever return of Indigenous land, the nonprofit Trust for Public Land returned 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres) to the Penobscot Tribe in Maine, with no easements or restrictions on its use. Birth of white buffalo viewed as a blessing and a warning A rare white buffalo calf was born June 4 in Yellowstone National Park's Lamar Valley, an event of profound cultural and spiritual significance for many Native American tribes. According to Lakota tradition, White Buffalo Calf Woman appeared to the Lakota people during a time of great need, bringing them the sacred pipe and teachings of harmony, respect and gratitude for the Earth. The pipe has been passed down for generations and is now held by Chief Arvol Looking Horse from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, who explains the tradition in the video below: Looking Horse presided over a ceremony in Yellowstone June 26, naming the calf Wakan Gli, (Sacred Return) and warning that the calfs birth was both a fulfillment of prophecy and a warning for people to unite and protect the earth. As G20 leaders convened in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in November, they set an ambitious goal to lift 600 million people out of poverty by 2030, highlighting the urgent need to address poverty and global health care the root causes of migration and forced displacement. During the summit, experts said the world's 20 largest economies have the capacity to lessen the impact of the root causes through social policies and regional migration agreements. Experts like Paulo Illes, founder of the Center for Immigrant Human Rights and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of recognizing migration issues as legitimate. That must always be addressed from a human rights perspective, Illes told VOA. Additionally, G20 leaders should acknowledge that migration also occurs due to structural issues such as poverty, environmental disasters, wars and conflicts. Euclimar Fuentes, a Venezuelan migrant living in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is an example of how these issues converged. Born in Venezuela, Fuentes remembers a happy childhood there. We would go to the beach for breakfast as a family. Culturally, life was beautiful in Venezuela, she told VOA. Her fathers retirement after years as a police officer gave the family a comfortable life. The situation in Venezuela deteriorated during the COVID-19 pandemic because of a combination of preexisting economic, political and social crises compounded by the global health emergency. Its difficult when a family, a whole community, is left without food, electricity, energy or water. Its hard to live in a country where you have nothing to eat, Fuentes said. Her familys challenges intensified when her son was diagnosed with leukemia in December 2020. We tried to treat him there, but it was hard, she told VOA, adding that many children died in the same circumstances: no resources, no treatment, nothing to eat. We didnt want him to be part of that system [and die], she said. On December 26, 2020, Fuentes and her family left Venezuela. They considered different countries, including the United States, but because of her sons illness and the path for humanitarian status, they chose Brazil, which according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is home to about 61,000 Venezuelans. G20 declaration The G20s official declaration highlighted the need to address the root causes of displacement, including hunger and poverty. The U.N. estimates that 2.4 billion people worldwide live in poverty, a crisis that has increased migration, Brazilian Development Minister Wellington Dias said. But beyond the migration issue, Dias told VOA, Hunger and poverty are not just problems for those who are hungry or living in poverty. Its a problem for the middle class, for the wealthy, for rich countries and for wealthy individuals. The declaration included creating the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, which aims to implement policies such as cash transfers to 500 million people, school meals for 150 million children, and health services for 200 million women and young children. Funding is expected to come from at least 40 nations, 13 global organizations and various nonprofits and foundations, managed through several financial institutions. Its no longer just giving food baskets, Dias said. We are talking about implementing a development plan that must address education, which is a key foundation for eradicating poverty, as well as health, the economy, job creation and infrastructure. The U.N. noted that food insecurity, migration and displacement are intricately linked to climate change, natural disasters, conflicts and poverty all major conversations at the G20 summit. The challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted these connections, with health crises, economic hardship and displacement driving increased migration in the Western Hemisphere, Dias said. Steve Seide, a 22-year-old political science student from Haiti, also embodied the struggles faced by many migrants. He left his homeland in 2023 because of a lack of jobs and increasing security concerns. I chose Brazil because I heard of work opportunities and how welcoming Brazilian people are, he told VOA. Seides journey to Brazil was dangerous and expensive. To reach his destination, he crossed without documentation into the Dominican Republic. The first time, I did not get in. But I went back to the border, he said. After spending a month in the Dominican Republic, he eventually secured a humanitarian visa and is on a path to a stable life in Brazil. In life, you cant stop. If you need to get somewhere, you have to fight until the end, he said. Future response efforts The global response to the pandemic also took center stage at the G20 summit, where the United States spearheaded efforts to secure new contributions toward a $2 billion pandemic fund, pledging up to $667 million by 2026. The goal is to help developing countries prepare for and respond to future pandemics. However, U.S. participation in this initiative is subject to congressional approval. Member countries also agreed to establish a governance mechanism that integrates the key players in the global health security and financing ecosystem, with the World Health Organization at the center. As G20 leaders sought to address the interconnected challenges of migration, poverty and global health, stories like those of Fuentes and Seide underscored the importance of international cooperation and sustainable solutions. When you have your home, your piece of land, your family, you dont think about leaving, Fuentes said, adding that being separated from her loved ones is still very hard. Its been three years, but its still hard. Leaving everything behind, not knowing when youll see your loved ones again its a pain that doesnt go away. Leaving was the hardest thing weve ever done. But sometimes, its the only choice you have to protect who you love, she said. In a New Year's Eve address to his nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country would do everything it could in the new year to end the war with Russia. "And every day in the coming year, I, and all of us, must fight for a Ukraine that is strong enough. Because only such a Ukraine is respected and heard, both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table," Zelenskyy said. "May 2025 be our year. The year of Ukraine. We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift, but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war. This is what each of us wishes for," he said. In 2024, Ukraine gave up seven times more ground than it did in 2023: about 4,000 square kilometers, mostly in the east, according to data from the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War. At the same time, Ukraine took several hundred square kilometers of Russian territory in Kursk. Earlier Tuesday, Russian officials said debris from a destroyed Ukrainian drone fell on an oil facility in the Smolensk region, causing a fire. The Russian Defense Ministry said it shot down a total of 68 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 10 over Smolensk. Intercepts also took place over the Bryansk, Crimea, Krasnodar, Tver, Rostov, Kursk and Kaluga regions, the ministry said. There were no other reports of damage or casualties from the attacks. Ukraine's military said it shot down six of the 21 missiles Russia launched overnight, while also destroying 16 of 40 Russian drones. Serhii Popko, head of Kyiv's City Military Administration, said debris from destroyed missiles damaged three buildings in the Ukrainian capital. In the Sumy region in northeastern Ukraine, officials said a missile attack targeted infrastructure sites in the town of Shostka. Some information for this story was provided by Agence France-Presse and Reuters. A court in Serbia on Monday convicted the parents of a teenage boy who last year shot dead nine pupils and a school guard and wounded six more people in a school in central Belgrade. The Higher Court in Belgrade sentenced Vladimir Kecmanovic, father of the boy, to 14 years, six months in prison for "grave acts against public safety" and for child neglect. The mother, Miljana Kecmanovic, was sentenced to three years in prison for child neglect but was acquitted on charges of illegal possession of weapons. The shooter, identified as Kosta Kecmanovic, was 13 years old when he committed the crime and therefore too young to face a trial, according to Serbian law. His parents were detained soon after the shooting and charged for failing to keep the weapons out of reach of their son. The massacre at the Vladislav Ribnikar primary school in central Belgrade on May 3, 2023, shocked the Balkan nation, which was used to crises but had not dealt with a mass school shooting. The couple's lawyer, Irina Borovic, said the verdict came as no surprise "because public pressure was enormous, and the expectations were huge." Borovic said she would appeal the verdicts. Ninela Radicevic, who lost her daughter in the shooting, said, "We are not satisfied because no one was held responsible for the murder of nine children" and the school guard. The boy used his father's guns to shoot fellow pupils and others. He walked into the school and first opened fire in a hall before heading into a classroom, where he continued shooting. Elementary schools in Serbia enroll students 7 to 15 years old. Police have said that the teenager called them after the shooting and calmly said what he had done. He has been held in a specialized institution since the shooting and testified at his parents' trial. The proceedings were closed to the public except for the reading of the verdicts. Also convicted and sentenced to 15 months in prison for false testimony was a shooting instructor who worked at a range where the boy practiced. The school shooting was followed the next day by another mass killing in villages outside Belgrade. Uros Blazic, 21, took an automatic rifle and opened fire at multiple locations, killing nine people and wounding 12. He was sentenced earlier this month to 20 years in prison. The back-to-back shootings triggered a wave of street protests and a crackdown on widespread illegal gun ownership. Authorities in the Somali autonomous region of Puntland said eight foreign militants were killed following an attack by Islamic fighters on security forces early Tuesday. Residents said the attack started with a suicide bombing that targeted an area in Dharjale village in the far eastern highlands of Puntland, where security forces and officials were camped. In an audio statement posted on the Telegram channel of the regions security forces, spokesperson for Puntland security operations Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Ahmed confirmed the attack. Puntland anti-terrorism forces in the Dharjale, Bari region were attacked by the bloodsucking Daesh terrorist group, he said. The security forces have been following their movements, and they were ready. The bodies of eight foreigners and their weapons have been displayed. Ahmed said Puntland security forces sustained limited casualties. Islamic State claims responsibility In a statement on Wednesday, Islamic State, or IS, claimed it killed over 20 regional security forces in the attack, a figure that has not been independently verified. Residents reported additional casualties among civilians in the village from the shrapnel of the explosion. Photos purported to be of dead militants show severed heads, and burned and mutilated flesh, indicating the use of a massive explosive device. Puntland this month announced that preparations for an offensive against extremist groups in the region have been completed. The regions leader, Said Abdullahi Deni, urged the public to support the operation, without disclosing when it may start. Witnesses and residents said that Puntland forces moved to the east of Puntland after the preparations concluded. Al-Shabab and IS have been operating in Puntland. The operation appears to be focusing on IS. Deni offered amnesty to militants who renounce violence and their membership in the terror groups. U.S. military officials and Somali security experts reported that IS in Somalia increased its membership numbers this year. IS numbers previously were reported to be between 100 and 400 fighters, but Somali security and intelligence experts estimate their current numbers to be 500 to 600 militants, a figure yet to be confirmed by local authorities. A majority of the newcomers are said to be from the Middle East and eastern and northern Africa. IS in Somalia was formed in October 2015 by a group of former al-Shabab fighters led by the cleric Sheikh Abdulkadir Mumin, who reportedly pledged allegiance to the late IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Mumin appears to have survived a U.S. airstrike on May 31. A South Korean court has approved an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces insurrection charges over his attempt to impose martial law earlier this month. The Seoul Western District Court issued the warrant on Tuesday, marking the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced arrest, according to local media. Yoon was impeached in mid-December, suspending his presidential powers while the Constitutional Court reviews the case. In addition to impeachment, Yoon is being investigated for insurrection and abuse of power by a joint government investigation team. Authorities sought the arrest warrant after Yoon ignored three summonses for questioning. Yoons legal team has refused to cooperate with the investigation, arguing that the impeachment trial should take priority over any criminal proceedings. It is not clear when any arrest attempt will be made or how aggressive authorities will be in attempting to execute the warrant. The Presidential Security Service has so far prevented investigators from entering the presidential office compound or Yoons official residence for court-approved searches, citing security and military considerations. South Korean presidents are generally immune from prosecution while in office, except for cases involving rebellion or treason. Yoon declared martial law on December 3 the first such decree since South Korea became a democracy in the 1980s but lawmakers overturned the order within hours. Yoon has said the martial law declaration was necessary to send a strong message to his rivals, whom he accused of being North Korea sympathizers obstructing his agenda. The impeachment process is also filled with uncertainty. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to rule on Yoons removal, but with three judicial seats vacant, all six remaining justices must unanimously agree to uphold the impeachment. Efforts to appoint new judges have stalled, with the opposition threatening to impeach successive acting presidents who refuse to approve them, fueling fears of a prolonged political deadlock that has already hurt South Korea's economy. Last week, the value of the South Korean won hit a 16-year low against the U.S. dollar, raising concerns about higher energy import costs and increased consumer prices. A South Korean court has approved a detention warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces insurrection charges over his attempt to impose martial law in December. The Seoul Western District Court issued the warrant on Tuesday, marking the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced arrest, according to local media. Yoon was impeached in mid-December, suspending his presidential powers while the Constitutional Court reviews the case. In addition to impeachment, Yoon is being investigated for insurrection and abuse of power by a joint government investigation team. Yoon ignored three separate summonses to appear for questioning as part of that investigation, leading the court to issue Tuesday's warrant. Once Yoon is taken into custody, authorities will have 48 hours to decide whether to file for an arrest warrant or to release him, reported the Yonhap news agency. In a statement, Yoon's lawyers called the warrant "illegal" and said they would file an injunction at the country's Constitutional Court to stop it. Yoon's legal team has refused to cooperate with the investigation, arguing that the impeachment trial should take priority over any criminal proceedings. The arrest warrant is valid until next Monday. But it is not clear when any arrest attempt will be made or how aggressive authorities will be in attempting to execute the warrant. The Presidential Security Service has so far prevented investigators from entering the presidential office compound or Yoon's official residence for court-approved searches, citing security and military considerations. Political pressure, however, is building for Yoon to comply with investigators. In an editorial Tuesday, the Chosun Ilbo, an influential conservative daily, said Yoon has "no legal means" to block the enforcement of an arrest warrant. "Blocking its execution would itself violate the law and could lead to a physical confrontation," read the editorial, which urged Yoon to face the investigation "with dignity." Meanwhile, the acting head of South Korea's ruling conservative People Power Party on Tuesday called the detention warrant "extremely regrettable." South Korean presidents are generally immune from prosecution while in office, except for cases involving rebellion or treason. Yoon declared martial law on December 3 the first such decree since South Korea became a democracy in the 1980s but lawmakers overturned the order within hours. Yoon has said the declaration was necessary to send a "strong message" to his rivals, whom he accused of being North Korea sympathizers obstructing his agenda. His opponents accuse Yoon of attempting to restore South Korea's military dictatorship, and say it is necessary to formally remove him from office as soon as possible. The path forward, however, remains uncertain. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to rule on Yoon's removal, but with three judicial seats vacant, all six remaining justices must unanimously agree to uphold the impeachment. Efforts to appoint new judges have stalled, with the opposition threatening to impeach successive acting presidents who refuse to approve them, fueling fears of a prolonged political deadlock that has already hurt South Korea's economy. Last week, the value of the South Korean won hit a 16-year low against the U.S. dollar, raising concerns about higher energy import costs and increased consumer prices. The Biden administration on Monday took steps to protect the Ruby Mountains in northeast Nevada from oil, gas and geothermal development for 20 years. The Interior Department said it had approved an application by the U.S. Forest Service to withdraw 264,442 acres of federal lands in the Ruby Mountains from mineral and geothermal leasing. The application's approval removes the lands from development for up to two years and kicks off a 90-day period for the public to comment on the proposed 20-year withdrawal. The proposal comes three weeks before President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to step up domestic oil and gas production, succeeds President Joe Biden, a Democrat who has sought to conserve large amounts of public land. The lands would remain open to mining claims, the Interior Department said. "The Ruby Mountains are cherished by local communities for their scenic value, cultural heritage, numerous wildlife and benefit to the local economy through a thriving outdoor recreation industry," Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a statement. "Today, we are taking an important and sensible step to pause new oil and gas leasing to ensure that we have the science and public input necessary to inform proposed protections of the Ruby Mountains area for future generations." BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. In accordance with the plan approved by the Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, a series of events on the occasion of 31 December Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and New Year were held in all types of troops, Combined Arms Army, army corps, formations and special educational institutions within the Azerbaijan Army, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry. Festive events commenced with commemorating the bright memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and Martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan accompanied by a military orchestra was performed. The speakers emphasized to the event participants the historical significance of Solidarity Day, highlighting its role in fostering national unity, a deep love for Azerbaijan, respect for spiritual values, and a strong attachment to the Motherland. It was noted that on December 16, 1991, during a meeting of the Supreme Assembly of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, chaired by Heydar Aliyev, a decision was made to designate 31 December as the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. Following this, the Supreme Assembly appealed to the country's parliament, the Supreme Soviet, to adopt a corresponding legislative act in this regard. On December 25, the National Council of the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Azerbaijan, taking into account the appeal, passed a law declaring 31 December as the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. The events highlighted the exceptional contributions of the founder of the modern Republic of Azerbaijan, the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, as well as the achievements of his worthy successor, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, in continuing and advancing the political course set by the National Leader. As part of the events, documentaries were screened for military personnel, and meetings with the servicemen were held. Additionally, cultural, mass, and patriotic events, as well as quizzes took place with the participation of local executive authorities, governmental and non-governmental organizations, veterans, and public representatives. Furthermore, within the project "Letter to a Soldier", letters were sent to the defenders of the Motherland. The concert programs, organized by the Hazi Aslanov Army Ideological and Cultural Center, the Ganja Garrison Ideological and Cultural Center, and the creative teams from the regional cultural departments captivated the audience's interest. The United States announced late Monday the repatriation of a Tunisian man who had been held at the U.S. military detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba since 2002. Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi was one of the first to be held at the facility, which at one point housed hundreds of detainees following the September 11, 2001, al-Qaida terror attacks on the United States. Yazidi was captured by Pakistani authorities in late 2001. He was among a group of about 30 fighters who had crossed the border from Afghanistan's Tora Bora region, according to Pentagon files. The Pentagon assessment said most of the group was identified as al-Qaida operatives or bodyguards of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden. Yazidi was never charged with a crime and cleared for transfer from Guantanamo in 2009, but there was no agreement in place for him to be sent to Tunisia or another country. The Pentagon said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Congress in January 2024 that officials had "completed the requirements for responsible transfer" in consultation with Tunisia. The repatriation leaves 26 detainees at Guantanamo, of whom 14 have been cleared for transfer. Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters The U.S. military said its forces carried out multiple precision strikes in Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen amid escalating tensions in the region. A statement Tuesday from the U.S. Central Command said the strikes hit Yemens capital, Sanaa, along with other Houthi-controlled coastal locations. The strikes were carried out by U.S. Navy ships on Monday and Tuesday and targeted a Houthi command and control facility along with sites that produced and stored weapons, including missiles and drones. The facilities targeted in the strikes were used in previous Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, according to the U.S. statement. The U.S. Central Command said the strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region. A Houthi spokesperson called the strikes "a blatant violation of the sovereignty of an independent state and a blatant support for Israel." The Houthis have conducted multiple missile attacks directed at Israel and have carried out more than a year of drone and missile attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis say their campaign is in solidarity with the Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The United States has designated Hamas and the Houthis as terror groups. Next Close Previous Next A financial aid campaign for the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, also known as Rojava, launched two weeks ago in Iraqi Kurdistan's Sulaymaniyah, has been unexpectedly suspended. Aid boxes had been set up across the city, but the organizers have now decided to halt the campaign due to economic hardship among civilians in the region. Click here for the full story in Kurdish. As Syria undergoes a transformative phase, its diverse communities are seeking to secure their place in the nation's evolving political landscape. Among them, the Kurds seek recognition of their long-denied national rights, a topic that remains ambiguous in the agenda of the emerging authorities. VOA Kurdish Service discussed this issue with three experts who emphasized threats from Turkey and the need for the U.S. to maintain influence to help minority communities. Click here for the full story in Kurdish. Syria stands at a crossroads as the new administration led by Tahrir al-Sham group, an al-Qaida offshoot, promises a fresh start for all Syrians. Ahmad al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has pledged an end to oppression and persecution, vowing to build a Syria that embraces its diverse communities. However, reports from regions under the new administration, particularly the predominantly Alawite western coast, paint a troubling picture of continued violence and unrest. VOAs Kurdish Service spoke with Syria's Luqman Ahmi, the co-chair of the Democratic Green Party, and journalists Parwar Meedi and Masoud Mohammed. Click here for the full story in Kurdish. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his New Years address on Tuesday, said China's economy has rebounded, with GDP projected to exceed 130 trillion yuan ($17.8 trillion). Regarding Taiwan, he asserted that "no one can stop the historic trend of national reunification." Analysts, however, noted a stark disconnect between Xi's economic optimism and the realities felt by Chinese citizens. Click here for the full story in Mandarin. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa who has not signed death warrants for those facing capital sentences since he came to power in 2017 signed the death penalty abolition bill into law Dec. 31, 2024, presidential spokesman George Charamba confirmed to VOA. Yes, the president had a personal role he played in moving matters in that direction, and this [is] arising from his own historical experience [as] a prisoner who had been condemned but only survived on the basis of age. But we want to situate this decision as a decision of parliament, Charamba said. Mnangagwa survived a death sentence during the colonial era in the 1970s, as he was considered underage to face the gallows. Edwin Mushoriwa, an opposition member of parliament, introduced the death abolition bill. And parliament which is dominated by the ruling ZANU-PF accepted the idea. We are happy [with the] milestone we have actually reached, Mushoriwa told VOA on Tuesday. The reason I had to bring that bill actually [has] to do with the fact that out of the 62 inmates today on the death row, the majority of them come from poor backgrounds. Secondly, [the] death penalty by nature is not part of our culture as Africans, as Zimbabweans. Its a penalty that was brought during the colonial era. So, we just believe that [the] death penalty is not proper. Several human rights groups have been calling for Zimbabwe to abolish the death penalty. Parvais Jabbar, executive director of the London-based NGO called the Death Penalty Project, said Zimbabwe has joined two-thirds of the world that no longer uses capital punishment as a lawful sanction. In fact, in the African Union alone, there have been a number of countries that have abolished a death penalty in recent years. So, there is clearly an African movement taking place in relation to this issue, Jabbar said. I'm also encouraged by the governments statements about respect for human rights in abolishing the death penalty, and I hope it will be taken and seen as an opportunity for further reforms in the area of human rights, Jabbar added. This should not be seen as the end but the beginning of wider reforms. I also hope this will provide a stimulus for other countries in the region to also consider abolition countries like Kenya, and others. But not everyone is happy with the bill. Vincent Mazilankatha, an artisan miner, said deaths have risen in his area of trade since the bill was first discussed. If you just look at how people are killing each other, especially in the mining areas, that's when you see that [the] death penalty was supposed to remain in place. Because before, people were so afraid that if you kill, you're going to be hanged. So, I think it's not good at all, Mazilankatha said. This act was supposed to be there and to remain in place as just [a] deterrent, because before talking about the abolition of [the] death penalty, people were not killing each other like what they are doing now, he added. Imagine a person who has killed someone gets 20 years' imprisonment. And that person is 21 years [old]. When he comes out, [hes] 41 years [old]. Then life goes on. It's not fair at all. Amnesty International said Zimbabwe joins 24 countries across sub-Saharan Africa that have abolished the death penalty for all crimes, while two additional countries have abolished it for ordinary crimes only. Zimbabwes last-known execution was in 2005, though courts continued to impose death sentences for cases of murder committed under aggravating circumstances. By Mohammed Yusuf Nairobi In 2024, protests by young Kenyans sent shock waves through the countrys political scene, forcing the government to drop proposed taxes and fire several ministers. The youth movement highlighted the challenges Kenya faces as the government tries to increase revenues from citizens who are grappling with the high cost of living and are angry about corruption and what they see as attempts to stifle dissent. As the year comes to an end, President William Rutos government and a large section of Kenyan youth are still at odds over the direction the country is taking. The discontent erupted in June as parliament considered a bill that would increase taxes on certain food items and other sectors in the economy to help repay foreign loans and fund development programs. Lawmakers passed the bill, leading protesters storming the parliament buildings and burning a section of it. Ruto, seeing the public anger, declined to sign the bill into law. SEE ALSO: Nairobi has also witnessed protests against alleged police brutality. Rights groups say Kenyan security forces killed at least 65 people during protests or while in detention during 2024. On Monday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Nairobi to demand the release of Kenyans allegedly abducted from their homes and other places. SEE ALSO: According to human rights groups, at least 10 young critics of the government were kidnapped by unknown men in the last few weeks. The police have denied their officers were behind the abductions. Speaking in Homa Bay County on Friday, President Ruto said his government will end the mistreatment of youth. He called on parents to discipline their children. "These children are blessings that are given to us. Every parent should take care of their children, let's work for our children. We, the government, will do our part, and we will end the abductions so that the Kenyan youth can live in peace," he said. SEE ALSO: Boniface Mwangi is a Kenyan activist. He says Kenyan youths are united against the political elite who have made life difficult for them. "The Gen Z movement, they came together, they were united and they had one goal to reject the finance bill which succeeded and they went a set further to demand for political reforms and change of cabinet and some of it happened and that forced the political elite to come together. So for the first time you have Uhuru Kenyatta, Raila Odinga and Ruto in the same camp, he said. Since the protests, President Ruto has formed what he calls a broad-based government. He appointed some politicians allied with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and his 2022 election main challenger, Raila Odinga, to the office. "We started as divided people and are closing the year with a broad-based government. We have brought many Kenyans together," said Ruto. Political observers say this move is designed to better manage the opposition to his administration. Martin Andati, a political analyst, says such political maneuvers will do little to ease the public's anger toward the Ruto administration. "The guys in power behave like nothing happened, but the truth is that the dynamics have completely shifted," he said. "The old political class, inclusive of President William Ruto, Raila Odinga, and the likes of Kalonzo, are still stuck in a time up; they are still thinking along tribal chieftains and political kingpins; they are going back to 2007 when these youths are in 2027 already." Political observers predict a tough political fight ahead, as the Kenyan government and political parties have to constitute a new electoral commission. The current one technically exists, but all the commissioners terms have expired. Some are concerned that youthful activists will start petitions to recall members of parliament, a move that, if successful, may lead to the fall of the government and an early election before 2027. By Purity Mwambia Jacob Mafume, Mayor of Harare, Zimbabwe [T]he water that is coming out of our taps is safe for human consumption, and it is safe for the residents. We treat water that comes from Lake Chivero and Lake Manyame thoroughly to make sure that we dont put in our system water that is contaminated or that is harmful to the residents. Source: X, Dec. 17, 2024 - False In Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, residents have complained throughout December that tap water is "dirty, smells of sewage and often pitch-black colored." The main source of water here is Lake Chivero, which is highly contaminated by toxins, including leaking sewer pipes. Journalists asked the mayor of Harare, Jacob Mafume, about the polluted water supplied to the residents at a Dec. 17 press conference. Mafute answered that the city of Harare provides clean water to the residents. "[T]he water that is coming out of our taps is safe for human consumption, and it is safe for the residents, he said. We treat water that comes from Lake Chivero and Lake Manyame thoroughly to make sure that we dont put in our system water that is contaminated or that is harmful to the residents." That is false. There is ample evidence that tap water in Harare is frequently to blame for waterborne diseases, making it unsafe for the 1.5 million people living there. Mafumes claim outraged Harare residents, who responded by sharing photographs and videos of the dirty tap water from their kitchens on social media, saying it smelled like sewage. On Dec. 18, VOA reported that sewage-polluted water from Lake Chivero had killed four white rhinos along with thousands of wildlife, including zebras, fish and birds, among other animals and livestock. A Zimbabwean Parks and Wildlife Management spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo, told VOA News that the animals died after "drinking bacteria-polluted water at Lake Chivero Recreational Park, about 20 kilometers west of the capital, Harare." Contrary to Mafumes assurances, the city has not proven capable of providing sufficient clean water to residents. At maximum capacity, Harares water purifying facility, Morton Jaffrey plant, provides the city 750 megaliters a day. That is only half of Harares daily demand of 1,400 megaliters of clean drinking water, according to the city of Harare administration sources. Amkela Sidange, spokesperson for the Environmental Management Agency of Zimbabwe, told VOA that the "city of Harare on its own ... contributes about 219 megaliters of raw and partly treated sewer [water] that is discharged into the environment on a daily basis." Most travel advisory websites, including Canada-based World Travel Index, a source of global data, recommend that travelers avoid drinking tap water in Harare, deeming it a health hazard. The issue is decades old and has not been solved to date. A collaborative study between the British Geological Survey, a U.K. government organization, and the University of Zimbabwe concluded that the tributaries of Lake Chivero, the citys main drinking water source, are heavily polluted by industrial waste and raw sewage inflows. In December 2023, the World Health Organization representative to Zimbabwe, Professor JM Dangou, said Zimbabwe has "poor water and sanitation infrastructure." "Several factors contribute to the resurgence of cholera in Zimbabwe, including poor water and sanitation infrastructure. Inadequate infrastructure hinders access to clean water and proper sanitation, making communities more susceptible to cholera outbreaks," Dangou said. For decades, the Zimbabwean government has been battling the outbreak of cholera due to lack of access to clean water, reporting thousands of deaths and new outbreaks each year. In February, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) reported that 528 people died of cholera, saying, "one of the major actors driving cholera transmission" is "the continued low access to safe water." Last year, the Zimbabwean government declared a state of emergency in the capital over a cholera outbreak that claimed the lives of 150 people across the country. In July, the local Government Parliamentary Portfolio Committee revealed that the Harare City Council "has been struggling to purify water amid cash crunches." The committees chairperson, Supa Collins Mandiwanzira, said the private sector and individuals owe the Harare council millions of U.S. dollars, and the government has failed to pay a debt of 43 million U.S. dollars. AllAfrica, a multimedia content creator based in the U.S. and parts of Africa, quoted Mandiwanzira as saying, "Harare City is in desperate need of resources to augment the water works so that they can supply water to the City of Harare." U.K.s Guardian newspaper reported in 2020 that "a study conducted by South African company Nanotech Water Solutions concluded that the health of 3 million Harare residents may be endangered by the provision of water containing toxins that can cause liver and central nervous system diseases." BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. Given the large-scale militarization of Armenia, we have significantly increased our military budget for the coming year. It has reached a record level of 8.4 billion manats, said President Ilham Aliyev in his address on the occasion of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Year, Trend reports. We were compelled to raise it to this level. Because we cannot lag behind in the arms race initiated by Armenia in the South Caucasus, the head of state emphasized. By Lameck Masina NSANJE, MALAWI Thousands of Mozambicans have fled to Malawi to escape violence triggered by the disputed October presidential election. The latest statistics show that Malawi has received about 13,000 refugees from Mozambique in recent weeks, many of them women and children. Authorities say that the number is expected to rise. Sofia Jimu, the traditional leader of the Tengani area in Mozambique, is among those who fled to Malawi. She said a lack of food is the main challenge at the evacuation center where she is staying, adding that three children collapsed because of hunger in just one day. However, she said, the following day she was given 150 bags of maize flour and four bags of beans to distribute to people at the center. The political tension in Mozambique escalated after the Constitutional Council confirmed Daniel Chapo, presidential candidate for the ruling Frelimo Party, as the winner of the Oct. 9 election. Runner-up Venancio Mondlane, presidential candidate for the opposition Podemos party, disputes the results. Plataforma Decide, a monitoring group in Mozambique, says more than 200 people have been killed since post-election protests started in October. Dominic Mwandira, the commissioner for Nsanje district in Malawi, told VOA on Sunday that the biggest challenge is a lack of resources to take care of the asylum-seekers currently staying in makeshift camps near the border. In terms of food and then nonfood items, tents, issues of water, they are several, he said. But we are happy that partners have started coming in, the government is coming in to support these people. He said organizations offering help include the Malawi Red Cross Society and Plan International. Jane Mweziwina, a program area manager for Plan International in Malawi, told reporters they are working to ensure new arrivals are protected. You know women, people with disabilities and children are always vulnerable when they are in a crisis like this. So, our advice to the leadership is that they take special consideration for these special groups of people in terms of accommodation, security, even in terms of food, she said. Malawi authorities say plans are under way to relocate asylum-seekers to a more spacious center. In the meantime, Malawis Department for Refugees and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Malawi are conducting a joint assessment to identify the needs of asylum-seekers. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 1. I hope that from now on Armenia, while pursuing its policies, will continue to take into account the new realities created in the South Caucasus, said President Ilham Aliyev in his address on the occasion of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Year, Trend reports. "Many important developments took place in 2024. The most important of them was the liberation of four villages of Gazakh district, which were occupied in the early 1990s. We never took a step back from our position regarding these villages. We never forgot about these villages. The restoration of our territorial integrity and sovereignty simply had its own logic. We deal with everything, all the issues with confidence and consistency. At the first stage, we liberated a large part of Karabakh and East Zangezur from the occupiers in the Patriotic War in 2020. The part that remained under occupation was liberated from the occupiers through the anti-terror operation last year, and Azerbaijan restored its state sovereignty. This year, we regained four villages of Gazakh district without a single shot being fired, through political means. But it is also true that if the events that have occurred in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations over the past four years had not taken place, Armenia, of course, would never have voluntarily returned these villages to us. They were forced to do it. They did this realizing our political and military power, and I hope that from now on Armenia, while pursuing its policies, will continue to take into account the new realities created in the South Caucasus and, at the same time, in the world. We have created the new realities in the South Caucasus. The Patriotic War has created these realities. The restoration of our state sovereignty further strengthened these realities, and we reaffirmed the new realities we created in the South Caucasus on the diplomatic, international and political levels. The whole world has accepted the new realities," President Ilham Aliyev said. How to celebrate New Year Italian style. Staying in Rome for New Year's Eve? Well, the Italians may not have Auld Lang Syne or New Year's resolutions, but they have plenty of other peculiar traditions to make up for it. And you'd better be aware of them; according to Italian superstition, how the next year turns out will largely be determined by what you get up to on New Year's Eve. So if you want to make the most of capodanno and have good omens for the next 12 months, here's what you should know about New Year Italian style.The first thing is the way you dress. Now if you are heading to a posh do there is a good chance you will have already thought about what you are going to wear. But have you planned what underwear to put on? Forget about the rest, its what you wear under your trousers that really counts. Italian superstition holds that wearing red pants when the clock strikes midnight will bring good luck for the following year. No one knows the origins of this custom with any certainty, but there are two theories. The first is that originally it was traditional for men to give their wives red knickers as a fertility rite; red because it is the colour of love and knickers for the part of the anatomy covered up. Then women started giving their men red underpants in return and now everyone wears red pants, whether they be married, single or divorced. The second theory, on the other hand, holds that it has nothing to do with fertility and that originally underpants werent involved; it was just considered lucky to wear something new and red (a lucky colour) on the last/first day of the year. However, the Church came to disapprove of the superstition, viewing it as the first step down the slippery slope leading to astrology, spiritualism and occultism. Therefore people were forced to take the tradition underground (and under trousers) to avoid getting a scolding from the local priest about how they would burn in hell along with their fancy new red clothes. If you are planning to be in Sardinia for the big night, youll have to change the colour of your pants; there, green undies bring good luck. And what will you be eating? Forget lobster, caviar and smoked salmon; if you want to be quids in, gorge yourself on lentils. After midnight Italians wolf down as many lenticchie as they can. They believe the more lentils you eat, the more cash you will have over the year. Lentils are thought to symbolise money due to their colour (usually green) and their flat, coin-like shape. They are prepared with cotechino (pork sausage) or zamponi (pigs trotters), fatty foods that are also thought to be lucky. So the dish is really a double helping of fortune. At midnight the New Year should be toasted with a glass of spumante or prosecco; no self-respecting Italian would offend their taste buds with that inferior French imitation, champagne. An Italian New Year isn't all food and fun though; it can also be a hazardous affair. First there are the fireworks that youngsters throw around. Then there is also the old tradition of hurling bits of old junk (plates, lavatories, kitchen sinks and the like) out of the window after midnight. Italians believe this is a way of throwing out all that was negative about the past year. The police have actually cracked down on this potentially lethal bit of revelry and the junk chucking has been curtailed. However, if you are planning to be in a small town in the south of Italy (in particular in the Naples area) on 31 December be especially vigilant for flying garbage. Even your sex life depends on how things go on the big night. Italian superstition holds that if you make love on New Year's Day youll have plenty of sex the rest of the year. If you dont, the next 364 days are set to be lonely ones. So there you have it: all you need to know to have a happy, lucky, prosperous, safe and sexy New Year. Seizing trends, shouldering responsibilities, and pursuing the greater good: President Xi Jinping leads major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics into a new stage of greater achievements 16:43, December 31, 2024 By Guo Jiping ( People's Daily "On the new journey, major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics will enter a new stage where much more can be accomplished," stated the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs held at the end of 2023. Over the past year, the profound meaning behind "much more can be accomplished" has been clearly demonstrated to the world. Chinese President Xi Jinping attended three major home-ground diplomatic events, made four important overseas visits, and held over 100 in-depth discussions with leaders from across the world. The agenda of major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics reflects visionary foresight, a pattern of win-win cooperation, and a global mindset that seeks benefits for all. Standing at a new crossroads in human development and facing changes unseen in a century, China, in partnership with all sides, is navigating the waves of the times, upholding righteousness, and advancing along the grand path. Amid the twists and turns of history, China is steadily progressing toward the lofty goal of building a community with a shared future for mankind. I International scholars have described the current global issues as a "multipronged mixed crisis." The Ukraine crisis, the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, and the sudden changes in Syria are all major developments. Long-term challenges such as the development gap and climate change still require effective responses, while new governance issues like artificial intelligence and space exploration are urgently pressing. Old and new problems intertwine and resonate, presenting humanity with unprecedented challenges. Focusing on major-country relations, are countries ultimately rivals or partners? In analyzing the global landscape, is it a new situation of multipolarity, or a precarious situation reminiscent of a "new Cold War"? In terms of human societal development, will we allow instability to spread, or will we steer the world back onto the path of peaceful development? The questions of the times urgently need answers, and China's perspective draws from long historical cycles. President Xi has repeatedly delved into the analysis of the crises and opportunities, as well as the trends and dynamics facing the world. He has profoundly articulated that in the face of the unprecedented changes of the century, building a community with a shared future for mankind is the way forward for all the world's peoples. Focusing on promoting the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in the new situation, President Xi has called on the world to uphold the principle of sovereign equality, cement the foundation of mutual respect, turn the vision for peace and security into reality, unite all forces to achieve prosperity, commit to fairness and justice, embrace an open and inclusive mindset, and join hands together to take the lead in building a community with a shared future for mankind. The historical leap from peaceful coexistence to shared destiny represents a wise response to the questions of our time and a clear blueprint for a brighter future. "As an old Chinese saying goes, 'Passengers in the same boat should help each other.' Today, dwellers of the same planet should help each other," we should "encourage the international community to resolve differences through dialogue and rise above conflicts through cooperation, and build a beautiful world of harmonious coexistence together." By deeply exploring the contemporary value and global significance of China's outstanding traditional culture, President Xi uses Eastern wisdom to interpret the essence of building a community with a shared future for mankind. This sheds light on the direction in which changes unseen in a century should move for the progress of human civilization. Visionary insights and concepts that align with the broader trends demonstrate China's growing international influence and appeal. China and Brazil are jointly building the China-Brazil community with a shared future, working together for a more just world and a more sustainable planet. China and Serbia have launched the construction of China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era, making a breakthrough in the construction of a community with a shared future in Europe. The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing witnessed the firm decision to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era... The consensus on building a community with a shared future is continuously gaining momentum, and a new realm of harmonious coexistence and civilization is steadily expanding. In clarifying the ideological fog surrounding major global challenges, China advocates for a multipolar world based on equality and order, as well as for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. An equal and orderly multipolar world addresses the question of the future direction of the global order. Hegemonic schemes and the threat of a "new Cold War" are exacerbating global turbulence. Advocating for an equal and orderly multipolar world means breaking the outdated thinking that equates multipolarity with "great power balancing," "imperial rivalry," and "chaos and disorder." It emphasizes the equality of all nations, big and small, opposes hegemonism and power politics, and seeks to genuinely promote the democratization of international relations. This involves upholding the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, adhering to universally recognized norms of international relations, and practicing true multilateralism. The collective rise of the Global South has become a significant force driving the development of multipolarity. In response to this trend, there are some doubters, pessimists, and those who move against the tide. President Xi has clearly stated China's position: "The collective rise of the Global South is a clear sign of the great changes in the world." From the 24th summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in Astana and the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, to bilateral communications with leaders from the Global South, President Xi has discussed the rising trend of the Global South and elaborated on its role in the changes unseen in a century. He advocates for the Global South to become a stabilizing force for peace, a backbone of openness and development, a constructive force in global governance, and a driving force for mutual learning among civilizations. Chinese initiatives lead the Global South at the forefront of the times, injecting continuous momentum into the promotion of a more equal and orderly multipolar world. A universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization answers the question of where the global development is heading. With the spread of unilateralism and protectionism, economic globalization is encountering headwinds. Advocating for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization means resolutely opposing the attempt to roll back globalization and abuse the concept of security. It also means responding to the universal demands of countries, especially developing ones, to address the development imbalances caused by the global allocation of resources between and within nations. To promote stable and long-term economic globalization, it is essential to recognize the broader development trends. President Xi emphasized that despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend, and the driving forces still prevail. He warned that the attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling. In the face of the shadow of protectionism, China is leading the way in guiding all parties to correctly view the headwinds and setbacks encountered by economic globalization, striving to build an open global economic system. To ensure that economic globalization remains steady and sustainable, it is necessary to identify the direction of transformation. "From Hangzhou to Rio, we have been working for one and the same goal, that is, to build a just world of common development": This was the key message of China's voice at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where "just" was the central theme. From strengthening trade and investment to advancing development cooperation, from achieving sustainable development to building an ecological civilization, from fostering an open, inclusive, and non-discriminatory international economic cooperation environment to upholding multilateralism, the Chinese proposal aims to realize a more inclusive, universally beneficial and resilient global development. Only by ensuring that different countries, social classes and people can participate in and benefit from economic and social development can we usher in a more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable new stage for economic globalization. Many global initiatives proposed by President Xi are conducive to promoting peace and progress for humanity, and China's approach has become a substantive force that is gradually uniting and mobilizing more people these are the common feelings of the international community. II From multilateral summits to bilateral interactions, China holds high the banner of peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit, keeps expanding the common ground with other countries, and makes efforts to promote world peace and common progress of humanity. Alleviating the instability and uncertainty faced by the world requires major countries to find a right way to get along with each other. In the interactions among major countries, China insists on promoting cooperation and emphasizing responsibility. It is always ready to do more and to strive for more positive results, to unequivocally oppose major-country competition and confrontation, and to unswervingly promote sound interactions with other major countries. China-Russia relations exemplify friendly exchanges among major countries in today's era. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia. President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin have met three times this year, providing strategic guidance for further deepening the bilateral comprehensive strategic coordination. The relationship between the two countries is becoming increasingly mature and stable, demonstrating prominent independence and resilience. Amid a fast-changing and turbulent international landscape, the profound and lasting friendship between China and Russia will not change, nor will their sense of responsibility as major countries for the world and for the people. Their mutual support for development and revitalization, as well as their unwavering pursuit to maintain global strategic stability, will not falter. A healthier and more stable China-Europe relationship serves the fundamental interests of both sides and aligns with the international community's expectations. President Xi's historic visit to Europe in May outlined a new chapter in China-France relations and fostered new progress in China-Serbia and China-Hungary relations. At various multilateral and bilateral occasions, President Xi engaged in in-depth communication with leaders from European countries including the UK, Germany, Spain, and Italy. Europe is a crucial partner for China in its modernization efforts, and both sides should adopt a strategic outlook and long-term vision for their relationship. This entails mutual respect, finding common ground while respecting differences, mutual learning, and pursuing win-win cooperation. By seeing each other as partner, strengthening dialogue and cooperation, and properly addressing conflicts and differences, China and Europe can achieve mutual development and benefit the world. The direction of China-U.S. relations is crucial to the future of humanity. Progress in implementing the "San Francisco Vision" between China and the U.S. clearly shows that cooperation between the two sides can lead to many significant and positive outcomes. Currently, the China-U.S. relationship finds itself at a new crucial juncture. President Xi held talks with President Joe Biden and congratulated President-elect Donald Trump. He enumerated seven points for China-U.S. relations, and reiterated that the Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, China's path and system, and China's development right are four red lines for China, which must not be challenged or crossed, which illustrates the stability and continuity of China's policy toward the U.S. and demonstrates China's strategic resolution and broad-mindedness. China adheres to the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation in managing China-U.S. relations and is willing to work with the U.S. to explore the right way forward for the two major countries on this planet, injecting certainty and positivity into the world. The collective journey of Global South countries toward modernization represents a significant progress in world history, marking an unprecedented achievement in the evolution of human civilization. On the path to realizing modernization, China and Global South countries support and assist each other, working together to promote peaceful development, mutually beneficial cooperation, and shared prosperity. The top-level design for unity and cooperation among the Global South is becoming increasingly refined. Systematic planning across regions brings together development consensus and strength, and enhances development momentum and confidence. China and Arab countries are building the "five cooperation frameworks," accelerating the construction of a China-Arab community with a shared future. The building of a common home of the SCO outlines the direction for the group's development, and with China holding the rotating presidency, the SCO is writing a new chapter of cooperation. By jointly advancing the 10 partnership actions for modernization, China is also empowering African development. The vision for advancing modernization that is just and equitable, is open and win-win, puts the people first, features diversity and inclusiveness, is eco-friendly, and is underpinned by peace and security, is a shared future not only for China and Africa but also for the entire Global South. Leading global cooperation with actionable plans reflects a commitment to the well-being of the people and demonstrates the foresight to pursue long-term goals for the present and future. China's eight measures to support Global South cooperation consolidate greater momentum for human progress. The building of a BRICS committed to peace, innovation, green development, justice and closer people-to-people exchanges outlines a blueprint for greater BRICS cooperation and China's eight practical measures to support the high-quality development of BRICS cooperation inject strong impetus into building a just world of common development. These down-to-earth cooperation measures have made China's firm commitment of "sharing weal and woe" with Global South countries more visible and palpable, reinforcing its image as a doer and go-getter working for the cause of global development within the international community. The cooperation toward building a community with a shared future in surrounding regions is becoming increasingly solid and assured. President Xi's visit to Central Asia has marked a new milestone in the friendships with Kazakhstan and Tajikistan. Meanwhile, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese President To Lam paid a state visit to China this year, and Indonesia's new president chose China as his first destination for two visits after being elected and taking office. As bilateral friendships deepen, the interests of China and its neighboring countries are becoming increasingly intertwined, and mutual trust continues to grow. With the implementation of the "Lancang-Mekong visas," the China-ASEAN FTA 3.0 Upgrade Negotiations have been substantially concluded. The China-Europe Trans-Caspian Express and the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project are implemented from visions These are all examples of thriving regional cooperation, which is unlocking new opportunities for mutual benefits and win-win outcomes. It is clear that going alone is not feasible. We must engage in global actions, responses, and cooperation to effectively tackle global challenges. China's three major global initiatives provide strategic guidance for the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind. New stories of cooperation are being written. 82 countries have joined the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative, 119 countries and international organizations have given support to the Global Security Initiative, and the 78th UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution proposed by China to establish an International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations. The approach of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits in global governance is the only correct choice for addressing global challenges and provides a pathway to realize a community with a shared future for mankind. At the Rio G20 Summit, President Xi offered a comprehensive and systematic exposition regarding the reform of global governance. He advocated for the improvement of governance in global economy, finance, trade, digitalization, and ecology, aiming to build a world economy characterized by cooperation, stability, openness, innovation, and eco-friendliness. China adheres to the principles of openness, inclusiveness, fairness, and justice to guide the reform of the global governance system. From the UN Summit of the Future to platforms such as BRICS and the SCO, China elevates the representation and voice for Global South countries in global governance. China has proposed the AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All and the Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science. Additionally, China has played a role in pushing for the adoption of the New Collective Quantified Goal for climate financing, consistently addressing the legitimate concerns and safeguarding the common interests of developing nations. In response to pressing issues like the Ukraine crisis and the Palestine-Israel conflict, China stands firmly on the side of peace and fairness, playing a constructive role in political settlement. China actively builds a symbiotic and mutually beneficial relationship that leads toward common prosperity and win-win cooperation. Its actions bring stability and confidence, which is conducive to strengthening unity among countries around the world and counteracting negative factors in international relations. Focusing on friendship and trust and advocating for cooperation and mutual benefit are key reasons why China continues to make significant contributions to world peace and development amid the challenges of the times. III The future of humanity largely depends on China, said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, expressing recognition and expectation of China's role. Let's turn the clock back to November 2014, to the first Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs after the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC). "China should develop a distinctive diplomatic approach befitting its role of a major country," President Xi said. He emphasized that China should, summing up its past practice and experience, enrich and develop its diplomatic theories and practice, and conduct diplomacy with salient Chinese features and a Chinese vision. A decade has passed, and his words are still fresh in our ears. In the 10 years since, China's major judgments on the evolution of the international order, the process of economic globalization, and the transformation of the international system have been confirmed by history. Every step of China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has followed the logic of historical progress and the trend of the times. In the past decade, China has firmly adhered to the path of peaceful development, expanded win-win cooperation with all parties, and upheld international fairness and justice, with each of its solemn commitments being put into practice in its efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind. The principles of "self-confidence and self-reliance, openness and inclusiveness, fairness and justice, and win-win cooperation" have become the key words for the international community to decode China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. Currently, uncertainty has become a common forecast for the future, and the role of major countries is under global scrutiny. This is a new moment in the further evolution and development of China's relations with the rest of the world, and a new moment for China to contribute more to human society's development with its own progress. Global attention is once again focused on China, recognizing its firm commitment to promoting peaceful development. "To understand China, one needs to understand China's efforts to further deepen reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization." "The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has made systematic plans for further deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization, which will provide more opportunities for the world..." President Xi vividly narrates the story of Chinese modernization to the international community, making the world more convinced that "the next 'China' is still China." "From French farm to Chinese dining table," "From Chancay to Shanghai," "China-Europe freight train service hits milestone as 100,000th train arrives in Germany" these international news headlines serve as vivid footnotes to an open China, full of opportunities. China has removed all market access restrictions for foreign investors in the manufacturing sector, given all the least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines, hosted the China International Import Expo for seven consecutive years, and expanded its visa-free policies, making "China Travel" a global trend. Against the headwinds of unilateralism and protectionism, China is opening its door wider to the world. China has signed Belt and Road cooperation plans with countries including Egypt, Timor-Leste and Peru, and established synergies between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Brazil's development strategies. The BRI, a road to prosperity, is growing wider and broader. Bringing together the peace and development aspirations of 155 countries, sticking to a single blueprint until the end, doing hard work one term after another, the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation will continue to expand new spaces for win-win development at a higher level, with greater resilience and sustainability. Global attention is once again focused on China, recognizing its pioneering example in promoting mutual learning among civilizations. President Xi has always placed great importance on deepening people-to-people friendship and strengthening cultural exchanges. He has replied letters from American friends, Kenyan students, Serbian steelworkers and other friendly people from various countries; and sent congratulatory letters to events like the 2024 World Chinese Language Conference, the inaugural World Conference of Classics and the 2024 World Conference on Traditional Medicine. The streams of friendly interaction between people are converging into a powerful force that promotes human peace and development. China is strengthening exchanges on governance and development experience, working together with others to write beautiful chapters of civilization, harmony and coexistence. "I have worked in Chinese counties, cities, provinces and at the central level, and poverty alleviation has always been an important part of my work in which I have invested the greatest effort." "If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too." President Xi has shared China's poverty alleviation story with the world, bringing confidence and inspiration to many other developing countries. The book "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China," published 10 years ago, has been interpreted internationally as the "golden key" to understanding China's reform and development in the new era, and as a "think tank" for solving global development challenges. Over the past decade, this important work has been translated and published in over 40 languages, with distribution covering approximately 180 countries and regions. When Chilean President Gabriel Boric brought "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" to a bilateral meeting, when Peruvian President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra remarked, "From China we have learned that nothing is impossible," when Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated that China has made remarkable achievements and has become a beacon of development and progress of the world, the world has clearly seen that today's China has become a more internationally influential, innovative and morally persuasive responsible major country. China's major initiatives and ideas are welcomed and supported by the international community. Addressing various international challenges has become increasingly reliant on China's active participation, and the path of Chinese modernization is gaining more recognition and emotional resonance worldwide. On December 18, the Xin Shanghai, a vessel laden with Peruvian fruits, arrived in Shanghai's Yangshan Port after a 23-day journey. Earlier, the first batch of Chinese Dongfeng Motor vehicles had arrived at the Chancay Port. A new dream-laden shipping route not only shortens the distance but also opens the door to new opportunities, reflecting the close and deep integration between China and the world. Xi said China is a great country with a splendid civilization of more than 5,000 years, adding that his generation and the new generation of young people are determined to strive for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. "We not only pursue our own development, but also strive to achieve common development with other countries in the world -- that is why I proposed the building of a community with a shared future for mankind," he said. This is the inheritance that transcends history and a declaration facing the future. By further integrating China's development with global development and aligning the interests of the Chinese people with those of people worldwide, China will surely make new and greater contributions to the cause of human progress as it strides toward the dream of national rejuvenation. (Guo Jiping is an international commentary column of the People's Daily, founded in 2005.) (Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming) BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 1. About 10,000 former internally displaced persons have already returned to these lands, said President Ilham Aliyev in his address on the occasion of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Year, Trend reports. "Nevertheless, the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur is progressing successfully. About 10,000 former internally displaced persons have already returned to these lands. The best conditions have been created for them. In general, more than 30,000 people live and work in liberated territories both in the newly opened enterprises and social facilities, and in construction. Next year, of course, the number of citizens who will return there will increase significantly. I must also note that from 2021 to the present, Azerbaijan has allocated more than 19 billion manats for the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur, and the implementation of the Great Return Program will continue to be a priority for us," President Ilham Aliyev said. Waterford Local Radio has raised more than 105,000 for the St. Vincent de Paul charity through listeners' donations and contributions from local businesses and corporate sponsors. The funds will go towards the charity which provides vital assistance to those in need during the Christmas period and into the New Year. WLR ran a series of events across Waterford for listeners to raise money for the appeal including three Christmas Community Concerts across the county for the cause. A spokesperson for SVP, said the charity is "deeply grateful to WLR and the entire Waterford community for their incredible support this Christmas" and that the funds will "have a significant impact on the lives of those who are struggling." The search for missing Waterford man Mark Myler has been stood down following the discovery of a body on New Year's eve morning, December 31. The 38-year-old has been missing since December 7, 2024. Gardai confirmed the development this afternoon. They thank the public and the media for their assistance. Waterford Marine Search and Rescue and Waterford City River Rescue have both extended their condolences to the family and friends of Mr Myler on social media. Waterford News & Star spoke to Winterval attendees about the New Year's resolutions at the top of their minds! Jamie Drohan, straight from driving the Winterval Train, discussed his New Year's resolutions and said that his hope for the new year was his family's health. "In the New Year I would just hope that my family would be well, that my parents will see another Christmas - they aren't ill but they're getting older and it's important to spend time with them." One of his resolutions for the coming year is to keep the beard and mohawk he currently sports, "that's a New Year's resolution, that's for sure!" After getting soaked while driving the train over recent weeks, Mr. Drohan said he also hopes the coming year is drier and said he wanted to wish everyone who had come to Winterval a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Siochana wants to work on her financial independence in 2025. Like many people in the Deise, Siochana said she wanted to work on her own financial independence and save more money. "My New Year's resolution would definitely be to have a better relationship with money and to start really saving so that I can help my mum with getting a new car." She said she is looking to save for her future after doing some research into financial management. "I hope that 2025 is going to be an amazing year for me, personally, so I thought I should challenge myself financially as well!" Declan Collins, a software engineer, said his resolution for the coming year "like every year, is to hit the gym a bit more often!" "I've tried to get into going to the gym a bit more in recent years but it's so challenging balancing getting in the exercise with the commute to work," said Mr Collins, who works in Waterford but lives in Wicklow. This year, it's more important to him, however, as there is a baby on the way to the Collins family. "Now, I have got a big reason to be in the gym, those nappies won't lift themselves from the car, I hear!" The search for a missing Melbourne hiker in Kosciuszko National Park has entered its fifth day, while Tasmania reels from three bushwalking deaths in less than a week. Hadi Nazari, 23, was last seen by two friends on Boxing Day as they descended the Hannels Spur Trail in the NSW park, at the tail end of a multi-day trek near Australias highest mountain. Hadi Nazari, a keen hiker, went missing on Boxing Day in Kosciuszko National Park. Nazaris friends say they had arranged to meet at the Geehi campground, but when he failed to arrive, they began searching for him before raising the alarm. Emergency services began searching for Nazari who is an experienced hiker the evening of December 26, and said there were concerns for his welfare. Prime Minister John Howard and his treasurer, Peter Costello, shelved a report that proposed substantial changes to their own tax reforms to fix spiralling house prices, instead telling cabinet the reforms were largely a job for the states. Documents released today by the National Archives from John Howards cabinet of 2004 reveal a report, the then Coalition government had commissioned into problems facing first home buyers recommended winding back capitals gains tax discounts and means-testing homebuyer grants, but Howard and Costello feared large property price swings and public anger if they tackled reforms. Peter Costello, left, and John Howard a joint submission from them on spiralling housing costs in 2004 in effect pushed off any contentious changes. Credit: Glen McCurtayne After a surge in house prices across the country and a drop in the proportion of young people entering the property market, then-treasurer Costello had the Productivity Commission examine the housing sector. In every capital city, prices had increased faster than wages, prompting a substantial increase in average mortgage sizes. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 31. A new large transport and logistics facility named Mega-Agat has been put into operation in the city of Arys, Turkestan region of Kazakhstan, Trend reports. The launch of the center is expected to help stabilize food prices and reduce transportation costs. Reports indicate that the complex spans 6 hectares. The warehouse facilities span 17,000 square meters, with 14,000 specifically reserved for the storage of dry goods. Ventilation systems for vegetables and perishable products occupy an additional 3,000 square meters. There are also access rail tracks and a freight transportation organization point. According to Alisher Rustembek, the director of Mega-Agat, the project cost amounted to 4 billion tenge, which is approximately $7.6 million. The complex has been built in compliance with European standards and is equipped with modern technologies that meet high logistics requirements. To note, earlier it was reported that on the site of "Mega-Agat" in the Turkestan region, the foundation was laid for the construction of a plant for the production of sunflower, cotton, and safflower oils. The cost of the automated extraction complex is 9 billion tenge, which equals approximately $17.1 million. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 31. Kazakhstan has seen a jump in imports of Chinese passenger cars by 27 percent from January through November 2024, Trend reports. According to data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China, Kazakhstan brought in 104,000 passenger cars from China during the first 11 months of the year. This figure is 22,000 higher than it was during the same stretch last year. In the latter half of the year, the floodgates opened for Chinese cars, with import numbers soaring above 10,000 vehicles each month. To note, in the first half of 2024, the most popular Chinese car in Kazakhstan was the Chery. During this period, 6,667 Chery cars were sold in Kazakhstan. The most popular Chinese car brands in Kazakhstan also included JAC (5,150 units) and Changan (4,214 units). BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 31. The government has to do effective work to ensure the progressive growth of the economy of Kazakhstan, the New Year's greetings of the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev says, Trend reports. "It is necessary to open new production facilities, improve business conditions, continue building roads, and solve problems in the public utilities sector. It is necessary to expand the use of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence. Strengthen support for our farmers. In all this work, the main goal is to improve the well-being of citizens," Tokayev noted. The president also added that Kazakhstans authority on the world stage has significantly strengthened, and significant summits of influential international organizations have been held in Astana. "Thousands of athletes and foreign guests gathered for the World Nomad Games, organized at the highest level. The competitions demonstrated to the world the uniqueness and originality of the nomadic civilization. Thanks to the victories of Kazakhstani athletes, our turquoise flag fluttered in the arenas of the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he said. A Mayo native and his wife were key figures at a historic US event solely dedicated to sepsis, an illness that sadly claimed the life of their young son 12 years ago. Ciaran Staunton and his wife Orlaith have played a leading role in the End Sepsis campaign following the death of their 12-year-old son Rory from undiagnosed sepsis in 2012. The United States first and most effective mandatory protocol requirement for sepsis was implemented in the state of New York in 2013 and was named Rorys Regulations in honour of their son. The latest event - at the White House in Washington DC - discussed ongoing programmes such as Rorys Regulations, which saved 16,000 lives in its first four years of operation, as well as how to elevate best practice and build momentum for continued public and private sector action in ending Sepsis. Ciaran, a native of Louisburgh, spoke to the Western People about the milestone event at the White House. Through three administrations, we have lobbied the White House to use their bully pulpit and take a stand on something that is killing 350,000 Americans per year, he said. The thing about the White House is that when you get an event there, all state leaders will be there because its not very often that you get an invite to the White House. We want this to now be an annual event and continue under the next administration, he added. He said that Rorys Regulations have provided a platform for other states and countries to act against preventable deaths due to sepsis. Rorys Regulations is nearly 10 years in law in New York so the template is there. It is not as if other countries or every state have to reinvent the wheel, we have shown and proven what can be done to save lives, he said. However, Mr Staunton said it is up to the federal government in the United States to take charge on this issue and see national legislation introduced. Why should it be left up to two people who buried their son to work day and night on this campaign? This Christmas, we have an empty chair and there will always be an empty chair at our table because of an unnecessary, preventable death. The federal government has to get involved. This is not a state-by-state issue. To this end, Ciaran and his wife will be working tirelessly to ensure that a landmark bipartisan Sepsis Bill, introduced to the Senate earlier this year but not yet passed into law, will be enacted in early 2025. We will be meeting with Senators on both sides of the aisle to reintroduce this. We have a good working relationship with the Senators from both parties and it is our primary goal to get that legislation passed, he said. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Any morning clouds give way to partly sunny skies; a milder afternoon with highs back above the 60-degree mark. . Tonight Becoming cloudy overnight with some patchy fog and drizzle possible late at night. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, January 1. The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway will open a new era in the development of transport infrastructure in Central Asia, the New Year's greetings of the President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov says, Trend reports. "The day before, we laid the foundation stone for the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which will open a new era in the development of transport infrastructure in Central Asia. This route will provide new opportunities for the entire region, strengthen the economy and improve the lives of millions of people. Connecting the peoples of the East and West, it will become a new historical revival of the Great Silk Road," Japarov noted. The President of Kyrgyzstan also said that in the new year the country will continue to attract foreign investment, create favorable conditions for entrepreneurship, develop science, education, innovation, the IT sector, the "green" economy and digital technologies. "Special attention will be paid to opening industrial enterprises, creating new jobs and increasing the population's income. The social sphere will reach a new level. Thus, together with you we will build a new Kyrgyzstan," he said. DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, December 31. Tajikistan is set to attract additional financing for the ongoing construction of the Rogun Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP), President Emomali Rahmon said during his address to the country's parliament, Trend reports. Rahmon emphasized that the country is continuing its cooperation with several international financial organizations and development partners to raise a total of 33 billion somoni (approximately $3 billion), including grants totaling 12.5 billion somoni (around $1.15 billion), for the completion of the Rogun HPP project. The president highlighted that over the past two years, more than 9 billion somoni ($823.8 million) from the state budget have been allocated for the construction of the Rogun HPP. He also urged authorities to expedite the completion of this critical infrastructure project. Rahmon further noted that nine agreements have already been signed with six international donors, amounting to 10 billion somoni (approximately $915 million) to finance the project, with over 3 billion somoni ($275 million) provided in the form of grants. Funding for the project has been secured through 2025. Rahmon pointed out that on December 17 of this year, the World Banks Board of Directors approved an initial grant of $350 million as part of the first phase of a program to assist Tajikistan in financing the completion of the Rogun HPP. The Rogun HPP, located on the Vakhsh River, is planned to consist of six units, each with a capacity of 600 MW. Two units are already operational, with a third set to begin operation by 2025. Once completed, the plant will generate over 17 billion kWh of electricity annually, significantly boosting Tajikistan's energy supply. Upon full operation, the Rogun HPP will provide electricity to nearly 10 million people in Tajikistan, helping to alleviate regular winter electricity shortages. Additionally, about 70 percent of the electricity generated will be exported at affordable rates to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Ukrainian actress Liubava Hreshnova, who for many years lived in two countries and after the start of the full-scale invasion severed all ties with the aggressor country Russia, admitted that she had experienced suicidal thoughts several times during her life. According to the celebrity, the last time she thought about suicide was at the beginning of the Great War. ADVERTISIMENT The 36-year-old actress said this in an interview on Slava Demin's YouTube channel. She noted that she could not make a fatal decision because she has a young son. "I had suicidal thoughts at the beginning of the full-scale invasion. But I realized that I had a child and I could not afford it. Why were they there? Because I was left with nothing and didn't think I would ever return to my profession. I had no money, and I didn't think I could buy my child anything but pasta. All I could see was working at a cash register or as a cleaner," the star said. ADVERTISIMENT In addition, the actress's thoughts of suicide were influenced by the terrible circumstances that arose due to the outbreak of the Great War. According to Liubava Hreshnova, her mother suffered a heart attack and was in Saltivka under enemy fire, and the actress herself was trying to figure out how to get her parents out of Kharkiv. As the star recalled, she had suicidal thoughts as a teenager. At the time, Liubava Hreshnova thought that if she did not enter the Ivan Karpenko-Kary Kyiv National University of Theater, Cinema, and Television, she would take the sleeping pills she had bought in advance and kill herself. The period of her life when she was fired from the STB TV channel was also difficult for the celebrity: "There was enough suffering there. I think we are all very naive and emotional at a younger age. Of course, I didn't have the wisdom to realize then that this is an experience, it's all for the best, it gave me even more recognition." Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The eight-year legal battle between Hollywood actors Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt has finally come to an end. On Monday, December 30, the stars made a fateful decision, namely, they signed a divorce agreement. ADVERTISIMENT According to People, the 49-year-old actress's lawyer confirmed the official breakup of the celebrities' marriage. It is noted that after years of litigation, Jolie feels exhausted, but at the same time happy that this difficult stage of life is over. "More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt. She and the children left all the property they shared with Mr. Pitt, and since then she has focused on finding peace and healing for her family. This is just one part of a long process that began eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved that this part is behind her," said the star's representative. ADVERTISIMENT According to a source close to Angelina Jolie, despite all the problems she had to face because of her ex-husband, she never says anything bad about Pitt. The actress tries to be "light after dark times". It should be reminded that Jolie filed for divorce from Brad Pitt on September 19, 2016. Since then, the stars have been involved in a lengthy lawsuit. Back in 2019, the Hollywood actors ceased to be married, but the showdown between them did not end because of the fight for custody of their six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne, Knox, and the joint French winery Chateau Miraval. The litigation over the estate began in 2022 when Pitt filed a lawsuit against Jolie for allegedly selling her share without his consent. For her part, on April 4, 2024, the actress accused her ex-husband of physically abusing her and her heirs. In a statement filed with the Los Angeles Superior Court, it is claimed that Pitt insulted the celebrity before the infamous plane incident in 2016, which led to the divorce. Then, according to the actress, her husband yelled at her, grabbed her head, shook her, pushed her into the bathroom wall, and punched the ceiling of the plane several times. This all happened in front of their descendants, and when one of them called Pitt a "fool," the celebrity attacked him as well. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Xac minh 'than y' chua ung thu bang phuong phap 'truyen nang luong' "Than y" Nguyen Van Kien (trai) lam viec voi co quan chuc nang - Anh: Cong an cung cap Ngay 28-2, ong Nguyen Tuong Duy - chu tich UBND xa Hai Yang (huyen ak oa, Gia Lai) - cho hay ang phoi hop cac co quan chuc nang xac minh truong hop nguoi xung... An Giang lien tiep xuat hien mua trai mua Mua bat chot giua cao iem ma kh khien nguoi dn bat ngo. Theo ng Luu Van Ninh, Gim oc i Kh tuong Thuy van tinh An Giang, nguyn nhn cua hien tuong ny l do nhieu ong nhiet oi trn cao trong ieu kien La Nina ket hop cua ra pha Nam khoi khng kh lanh... The international workshop on education for sustainable rural development, and the coinciding 30th anniversary celebration of the UNESCO International Research and Training Centre for Rural Education (UNESCO INRULED) was held, in early December, in Beijing. Huang Xiaowei, Vice-President and First Member of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation (ACWF), attended and delivered a speech during the opening ceremony. Huang noted the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has given strategic priority to developing education, stressed education is the foundation of building a great country and achieving national rejuvenation, and promoted and guaranteed equal rights to education for girls and women in rural areas. Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) special envoy for the advancement of girls' and women's education, has made outstanding contributions to the promotion of girls' and women's education, Huang continued. While referring to detailed statistics and vivid cases, Huang outlined China's progress in girls' and women's education, and she detailed the ACWF's work in promoting education for women and girls in rural areas. Huang noted China is ready to work with all parties to advance more equitable, inclusive and higher-quality education for girls and women, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the United Nations, and to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. Yu Jihong, President of Beijing Normal University, Liu Limin, President of China Education Association for International Exchange, and former Vice-Minister of Education, Ge Siying, Deputy Secretary-General of the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, and Shahbaz Khan, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia, also attended. UNESCO INRULED is an international agency, established by UNESCO and the Chinese Government, to foster developing countries' work including research, training, information publicity, and network exchanges in the field of education for rural development. It focuses on various topics, including gender equality, women in leadership, and girls' education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). (Source: Women Voice) Editor: Cui Rui Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers an important speech at the New Year gathering organized by the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 31, 2024. [Xinhua/Wang Ye] BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday stressed efforts to maintain strategic resolve and stay united in forging ahead against all odds to build a strong country. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a gathering held by China's top political advisory body to usher in the new year. "On the journey of Chinese modernization, we will not only encounter clear skies and gentle breezes, but also face high winds, choppy waters, and even dangerous storms," said Xi. "We must maintain strategic resolve and pool the great strength of all Chinese people striving in unity to cut through the waves and forge ahead with courage." In 2024, faced with challenges arising from both domestic and international situations, China responded calmly with a full range of steps, meeting the major economic and social development targets for the year, Xi noted. The development journey in 2024 has been extraordinary with encouraging achievements, which has further strengthened the country's determination and confidence in advancing Chinese modernization, Xi said. In 2025, which marks the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), efforts will be made to implement more proactive macro policies to promote sustained economic recovery and improvement, continuously enhance people's living standards, and maintain social harmony and stability, Xi said. Xi stressed high-quality fulfillment of the goals and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan to lay a solid foundation for a good start to the 15th Five-Year Plan. Xi also lauded the contributions of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) to the Party and the country over the past year, and called on it to fully leverage its role as a specialized consultative body in actively offering suggestions and proposals, and garnering broader public support and common understandings. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the CPPCC, presided over the gathering. Other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attended the event. Leaders of the Communist Party of China and the state Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attend the New Year gathering organized by the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 31, 2024. The leaders also watched a performance at the gathering. [Xinhua/Xie Huanchi] Leaders of the Communist Party of China and the state Xi Jinping, Cai Qi and Ding Xuexiang meet with representatives of retired officials and groups who received awards for their outstanding work at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 31, 2024. [Xinhua/Ding Haitao] BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met with representatives of retired officials and groups who received awards for their outstanding work. Congratulating the awardees, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, urged the retirees to carry on the glorious traditions and maintain political integrity. He also urged them to make further contributions to building China into a strong country and rejuvenating the nation through the path of Chinese modernization. Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, and Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Li Ganjie, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, also attended the meeting. On Monday, 150 groups and 450 individuals received awards at a ceremony to honor model retired officials and groups. Li addressed the ceremony. Leaders of the Communist Party of China and the state Xi Jinping, Cai Qi and Ding Xuexiang meet with representatives of retired officials and groups who received awards for their outstanding work at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 31, 2024. [Xinhua/Li Xueren] Mykhailo Dianov, a Ukrainian soldier who took part in heavy battles at Azovstal and later survived Russian captivity, shared a unique photo with his followers. He appeared in front of the camera with his beloved girlfriend and spoke about the changes in his personal life. ADVERTISIMENT The defense lawyer admitted that he had proposed marriage to his chosen one. A corresponding post appeared on his Instagram page. "She said: "Yes!"," the Armed Forces soldier briefly captioned the touching photo. Although Mykhailo Dianov shared the good news with his followers, he did not reveal too many details about his personal life. The defense lawyer decided not to show his fiancee's face, so he simply threw up. Probably, Mykhailo Dianov decided to propose to his beloved in a more casual atmosphere. In the photo, you can see a smiling defender in a black jacket, and next to him his chosen one in a dark coat, which she combined with a voluminous white scarf. ADVERTISIMENT The soldier's followers have already congratulated him on the important event and left many good words in the comments: "My sincere congratulations, I am happy for you. May your life be happy." "Sincere, best wishes! I wish your family a peaceful Ukraine." "I wish you a happy and long life together! And healthy and happy children!" It is worth noting that Mykhailo Dianov was previously married, but the marriage broke up in 2011. During his life with his former girlfriend Olha, the military man had a daughter, Kateryna. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Weather Alert ...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM CDT /2 PM EDT/ THIS AFTERNOON TO 4 AM CDT /5 AM EDT/ SATURDAY... * WHAT...South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts 45 to 50 mph expected. Locally higher gusts in excess of 50 mph are possible. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...From 1 PM CDT /2 PM EDT/ this afternoon to 4 AM CDT /5 AM EDT/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. && Nehorai Nir, 10, accidentally found a Christian artifact near Jerusalem that could be up to two centuries old. The unique cross is decorated with precious stones. ADVERTISIMENT The boy came across the amazing find during an excursion to Ein Karem, a historic hillside village west of Jerusalem known for its centuries-old holy sites. The village is important in Christianity, as it is the birthplace of John the Baptist, according to Newsweek. Ein Karem is also identified with an event mentioned in the New Testament known as the Visitation, where the Virgin Mary met her cousin Elizabeth, who was pregnant with John the Baptist at the time. The cross found by the 10-year-old boy is unique in its decoration, researchers say. It is inlaid with tiny pieces of glass and colorful gems. According to Nehorai, during the tour he saw a multi-colored object shining in the dirt under his feet. He then picked it up, being very excited about the discovery. ADVERTISIMENT Although the artifact is not legally considered an antique, as it is only 100-200 years old, it is a "unique" object, according to Amit Re'em, Jerusalem District Archaeologist at the Israel Antiquities Authority. The researchers said that the cross was made using a technique known as micro-mosaic, which was developed in Rome around 1800 and was preserved until the early 20th century. Experts believe that the pendant could have belonged to a Christian pilgrim who visited Ein Karem. "This cross is a testament to the personal story of a pilgrim who visited Ein Karem 100200 years ago, reflecting the centrality of the Holy Land to the three monotheistic religions. When Nehorai shared the story of the discovery, one could almost imagine the moment the pendant was lostonly to be found by the boy about a century later," added Amit Re'em. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Recently screened at the Toronto International Film Festival as work in progress, The Bibi Files, edited and updated, is now on general release, but only in art houses. Because, as Alex Gibney, one of the producers, said, No mainstream outlet will show the film in the US. Within Israel, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought and failed to get the film banned, it has still not been screened. Despite this, the film has been shortlisted for the Academy Awards best documentary. The Bibi Files official poster [Photo: Studio and or Graphic Artist] The film was directed by South African Alexis Bloom and produced by, among others, Alex Gibney. Bloom had earlier collaborated with Gibney on We Steal Secrets: The story of WikiLeaks (2013), a character assassination documentary of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange characterised by numerous distortions and omissions. It essentially adopted the media and US governments campaign against the WikiLeaks website. The picture The Bibi Files film paints is that Israel has been brought to the brink of disaster, fighting a war that has no achievable objective, by Netanyahu, who is driven by the need for his own political survival in the face of his ongoing trial for corruption that could put him behind bars for years. Speaking at the Toronto International Fim Festival in September, Bloom said, Its an old-fashioned truth-to-power film. And he [Netanyahu] is in power. Gibney agreed, saying, Were dealing with a conflagration in the Middle East where people are dying every day. So, to be able to have a platform where you can plant a stake in the ground and also start, you know, serious discussion about Netanyahu and his motives, I think was important. The Bibi Files opens with Israels war on Gaza, implying that it was the result of Netanyahus efforts to remain in power and avoid or delay his trial. It features leaked footage of Israeli police interrogating Netanyahu, his wife Sara and ultra-right-wing son Yair, as well members of his inner circle, on corruption allegations. Netanyahu is currently giving evidence three times a week in his long-delayed trial on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three separate cases that largely relate to his efforts to secure favourable media coverage. If found guilty, he could serve up to 10 years in jail. Notorious for his luxurious tastes and hobnobbing with the financial elite, he has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, claiming to be the victim of a left-wing coup orchestrated by liberal media and a biased justice system. Police investigations, reported verbatim in the press, demonstrated open and shut cases of bribery. The thousands of hours of the polices taped interrogations, recorded between 2016 and 2018, were leaked to Gibney in 2023. They reveal little that is new. They show a smirking Netanyahu who responds to most of the questions, as in his trial, with, I dont recall and What a liar. The film shows the expensive giftschampagne and cigarsthat the late billionaire Sheldon Adelson and his wife Miriam, Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and his former aide Hadas Klein, and Iris and Shaul Elovitch showered on Netanyahu and his family, often at their request, along with expensive jewellery for his wife, Sara. She tells the police, I did not personally ask for a ring and a necklace, while her husband denies all knowledge of it. Milchan, it is claimed, gave gifts to Netanyahu to get former US Secretary of State John Kerry to reverse the decision to deny him a US visa, and received tax breaks after Netanyahu put pressure on his finance minister to change the law. Telecoms businessman Shaul Elovitch, it is claimed, was rescued from bankruptcy by loans arranged by Netanyahu in return for the Netanyahu familys de facto control of his media outlet Walla! The takeover resulted in a change in editorial line, with reporters fired and favourable coverage of Netanyahu and his son Yair--who Uzi Beller, Netanyahus childhood friend--said was being groomed to succeed him. The leaked footage includes a recording of Arnon Mozes, editor of an Israeli newspaper, made by Netanyahu from a cell phone in his pocket that he said he could not recall making. The film claims that Netanyahus lawyer advised him to resign after he was charged. But he refused to do so, fearing more of his activities would be exposed. The second half of the film focuses on how Netanyahus fight to evade his trial and potential jail term drove his political strategy, including his alliance with far-right ultra-nationalist forces he had previously shunned to ensure a parliamentary majority for his Likud Party bloc, and his emasculation of the judiciary aimed at giving his government untrammelled powers and the war in Gaza. Raviv Drucker, an investigative journalist and one of the films producers who provides a commentary throughout the film, said, He didnt try and cover it up. He tried to dismantle the whole system. Dominating the last part of The Bibi Files is the October 7 Palestinian attack on Israel, with Gili Schwartz, a survivor of the attack on Kibbutz Beeri blaming Netanyahu for the attack and the war and many people holding Netanyahu responsible for keeping Hamas in power in Gaza to undermine the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. Once the Gaza war began, Netanyahu sought to keep it going until total victory, refusing a hostage deal involving a ceasefire with Hamas, because his far-right cabinet ministers threatened to pull out of the government, triggering new elections Netanyahu would lose. Losing the premiership would cost him his immunity from jail. That would be a disaster for him, Drucker said. He will do everything he needs to keep on going with the war, and he will keep on going until there is a situation when it endangers his political survival. And then he will stop the war. This view ignores the fact that the war on Gaza was coordinated with the Biden administration, which dispatched warships to the Middle East just days after the October 7 attack, signalling this was part of a broader effort to reorganise the region in the interests of US imperialism. Since then, Israel has carried out a devastating military campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon, hundreds of strikes against Syria and the occupation of its territory following the fall of Assad, attacks on the Houthis in Yemen and murderous provocations against Iran, while intensifying its brutal occupation of the West Bank. The Bibi Files, although alluding to the US relationship with Israel, does not develop this issue, including massive aid to the Zionist state without which it could not function as the guardian of Washingtons interests in the resource-rich Middle East. The filmmakers opposition to Netanyahu is not different from that of the leadership of Israels mass popular opposition, unprecedented in the countrys 75-year history, against Netanyahus judicial coup. Made up of former military, security and intelligence chiefs as well as former ministers who had all at some time served under Netanyahu, they are no less committed to Israels expansion at the Palestinians expense. Fearing that the turn to open dictatorship would jeopardise the interests of Israels corporate and financial elite, they begged Netanyahu to compromise and abandon his efforts to neuter the judiciary. When Netanyahu declared war on Gaza, they all supported the move, with three opposition leaders joining Netanyahus war cabinet. Netanyahus political trajectory is not so much the product of his personal motivations, but the inevitable outcome of the Zionist project that established the state of Israel 75 years ago, through the forcible expulsion and brutal suppression of the Palestinians. Such a state, based upon capitalism, was always incapable of developing a genuinely democratic society. It functions as a garrison state for US imperialism, repeatedly at war with its Arab neighbours, in a state of perpetual war with the Palestinians, and dependent upon US military subventions. Pursuing an expansionist Greater Israel policy, it rests ever more firmly on the right-wing settler population in the Occupied Territories. It has acute levels of social inequality, among the highest in the world42 Israelis were featured in Forbes World Billionaires list for 2024, with a total wealth of $205 billion, up 7.8 percent on last years list. Getting a good job is dependent upon having Protekzia or the right social connections. These are the conditions that have paved the way for Netanyahu and his fascistic government. Indeed, Netanyahu is only one of many Israeli politicians to have been indicted for financial skullduggery: former prime minister Ehud Olmert served a prison sentence while Ariel Sharons son Gilad took the hit for bribes channelled through him for his father. At least seven ministers and 12 members of the Knesset have been convicted for financial crimes. As elsewhere, the turn by Israels ruling elite toward dictatorship and war is rooted fundamentally in the extreme growth of social inequality and the escalation of war that are the twin products of capitalism in its death agony. It will not be halted by substituting Israels opposition leaders for Netanyahu, but only by unifying Palestinian and Jewish workers and developing the expanding class struggle throughout the world into a conscious political movement for socialism. This is the third and concluding part of a series. Part One was published on December 27, and Part Two on December 29. Fascism and the falsification of history The RCIs attitude to Trump essentially replicates the disastrous errors of the Communist Party of Germany, infamously embodied in its slogan, After Hitler, us! As with war, when it comes to the threat of dictatorship and the growth of fascism, objectivist complacency and political passivity assume grotesque forms. The RCIs manifesto accepts that At a given stage, the bourgeoisie will be tempted to resort to open dictatorship in one form or another, but insists this could only become a realistic prospect after the working class had suffered a series of severe defeats, as was the case in Germany following the First World War. Answering the question, Is there a risk of fascism? the manifesto responds in the negative because todays far-right movements do not match the historic template of fascist movements in the 1930s. Superficial impressionists on the so-called Left internationally foolishly see Trumpism as fascism There are plenty of right-wing demagogues around, and some even get elected into power. However, that is not the same as a fascist regime, which is based on the mass mobilisation of the enraged petty bourgeois as a battering ram to destroy the workers organisations. President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, Monday, December 16, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci] The manifesto insists that, again as with war, the ruling class has become more cautious about a turn to fascism: In the 1930s, the contradictions in society were resolved in a relatively short space of time, and could end only in either the victory of the proletarian revolution, or in reaction in the form of fascism or Bonapartism. But the ruling class burned its fingers badly when it threw its weight behind the fascists in the past. It will not go down that road easily. It argues: More importantly, today, such a rapid solution is ruled out by the changed balance of forces. The social reserves of reaction are far weaker than in the 1930s, and the specific weight of the working class is far greater. In addition, The peasantry has largely disappeared in the advanced capitalist countries and wide layers that formerly saw themselves as middle-class have drawn closer to the proletariat and become unionised; and the students who provided the shock troops for fascism, have swung sharply to the left and are open to revolutionary ideas. Above all, The working class, in most countries, has not suffered serious defeats for decades. Its forces are largely intact. Therefore, The bourgeoisie finds itself faced with the most serious crisis in its history, but because of the enormous strengthening of the working class, it is unable to quickly move in the direction of open reaction. [ 1 ] To cite the declining social influence of the petty-bourgeoisie and the absence of major defeats suffered by the working class as a guarantee against political reaction is false to the core. Moreover, the RCI substitutes a falsified historical analogy for political analysis. Trump and similar far-right figures and tendencies internationally do not have the mass base built by Hitler. But what they do have is the support of large sections of the bourgeoisie and of the state apparatus, including within the military and the police. This is what enabled Trumps attempted coup of January 6, 2021 to proceed as far as it did. Violent insurrectionists loyal to President Donald Trump try to break through a police barrier at the Capitol in Washington on January 6, 2021. [AP Photo/Julio Cortez] As has been proved in one country after another, including in Italy where the heirs of Mussolini are in government and in France and Germany where fascist tendencies are now the main opposition parties, the rightward lurch of imperialism is paving the way for the assumption of state power by the far-right through the wholesale adoption of their program by the official parties of the bourgeoisie. Hitlers assumption of power was above all made possible by the political paralysis of the revolutionary vanguard of the working class by the Stalinist bureaucracy. Its policy of social fascismwhich opposed collaboration between the Communist Party and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) in defending the working class against the Nazisprevented any political challenge to social democracy that would have won the working class to a revolutionary perspective. As a result, in January 1933, Hitler was appointed Reich Chancellor by representatives of the military, the media and the corporations, and then in March handed dictatorial powers by all the bourgeois parties. It was after being given control of the entire state apparatus by the bourgeoisie that Hitler carried out the destruction of the workers movement. On March 21, 1933, Potsdam Day, President Paul von Hindenburg (right) accepts the appointment of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler as German chancellor. [Photo by Theo Eisenhart/Bundesarchiv, Bild 183-S38324 / CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 That is the warning that must be made to American workers, that they must not allow themselves to be paralysed by reactionary leaderships. Not soliciting complacency based on the favourable prospects for revolution, but mobilising the working class now on a perspective of revolutionary struggle against the Democratic and Republican parties of bourgeois reaction and war. The automatic communism of the youth and the pro-Stalinist orientation of the RCI In answer to every danger posed to the working class, Woods offers the prospect of an automatic growth of communism in the younger generation. Moreover, he and the RCI repeatedly offer as proof of this a growth in the influence of Stalinist tendencies to which they are clearly oriented. In his January report, Woods cites with approval the claims of the Communist Party of the USA to have recruited 8,000 young people in the last two years. If this were indeed true, then anyone claiming to be a Trotskyist would be obliged to warn such youth that they have just made the worst political mistake of their lives due to their ignorance of the counter-revolutionary history of Stalinism. But Woods instead hails this as proof that many people now, especially the youth are looking for an alternative, a revolutionary alternative. He states that since 2008, the turn by radicalised workers and young people in the direction of what you might call left reformists Syriza in Greece, Podemos in Spain, Bernie Sanders in the United States, and Jeremy Corbyn in Britain which aroused enormous expectations, only to dash them, is now leading young people to embrace communism. In the past, you had to struggle to persuade people as to the correctness of communist ideas and Marxist ideas. Not anymore. In all countries its a fact, an empirically verifiable fact. Ive not invented it: thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, probably millions of young people are already drawing the correct conclusions. Theyve already accepted the idea of communism. They desire communism. Woods gives short shrift to any of his members who dare to question such a scenario of the automatic shift to revolution by the working class: You say to me, Well, these young kids are very green. They havent studied. They dont know. Theyre not proper Marxists. Thats not correct. They are very proper Marxists. They are real communists. You know, Ive been a communist since I was a kid, and [his brother] Rob [Sewell] also, we are from a communist, working-class family. I was a communist before I read any books real communism doesnt come from the books. It comes from the soul. It comes from your gut instinct and the need to fight to change things. These young kids, they call themselves communists. They may have never read the Communist Manifesto. But they are communists. You dont need to convince these kids. He demands: Dont start off by trying to identify difficulties. It is not hard All you need to do is to stand on the street corner, proclaim communism, take a banner, take a newspaper if possible, and the gold will come to you. The gold Woods prospects for are young people who have joined the Stalinist parties. The miserable sectswho profess to support Trotskyism and oppose Stalinismnever understood anything about communism Theyre useless We have to turn towards the communist parties. We have begun to do that in Brazil and some other places. This is the space which we will now seek to occupy. [ 2 ] The attack on Lenins What is to be Done? Woods diatribe is a root and branch repudiation of Marxism, the development of socialist consciousness, and the Leninist theory of the party. This is made explicit in the partys own educational material for members, Lenins What is to be done: A reading guide. It states: While correctly polemicising against the Economists slavish worship of spontaneity, Lenin allowed himself to fall into the error of exaggerating a correct idea and turning it into its opposite. In particular, he asserts that socialist consciousness: [W]ould have to be brought to them [the workers] from without. The history of all countries shows that the working class, exclusively by its own effort, is able to develop only trade union consciousness, i.e., the conviction that it is necessary to combine in unions, fight the employers, and strive to compel the government to pass necessary labour legislation, etc. This one-sided and erroneous presentation of the relationship of the working class and socialist consciousness was not an original invention of Lenin, but was borrowed directly from Kautsky, whom he regarded at that time as the main defender of orthodox Marxism against Bernstein. Lenin himself later stated he had bent the stick too far one way to correct for an error of the opposite kind. [ 3 ] The victory of the October Revolution in 1917 was only made possible because Lenin built the revolutionary party required to imbue the working class with genuinely socialist consciousness and in this way created the basis for the socialist revolution. As Chairman of the WSWS David North explains in his essay, Lenins Theory of Socialist Consciousness: The Origins of Bolshevism and What Is To Be Done?: the critical issue analyzed by Lenin is the nature of the relationship between Marxism and the revolutionary party on the one side and, on the other, the spontaneous movement of the working class and the forms of social consciousness that develop among workers in the course of that movement. [ 4 ] Lenin at his desk, 1918 In formulating this relationship, Lenin traced the evolution of the forms of consciousness among Russian workers in the 1860s and 1870s, from the primitive destruction of machinery up to highly organised strikes. However, North explains: The consciousness exhibited by workers in these struggles was of a trade unionist rather than social democratic character This limitation was inevitable, in the sense that the spontaneous movement of the working class could not develop on its own, spontaneously, social democratic, i.e., revolutionary, consciousness. It is at this point that Lenin introduces the argument that has provoked so many denunciations. He writes: We have said that there could not have been Social-Democratic consciousness among the workers. It would have to be brought to them from without. The history of all countries shows that the working class, exclusively by its own effort, is able to develop only trade-union consciousness, i.e., the conviction that it is necessary to combine in unions, fight the employers, and strive to compel the government to pass necessary labour legislation, etc. The theory of socialism, however, grew out of the philosophic, historical, and economic theories elaborated by educated representatives of the propertied classes, by intellectuals. By their social status, the founders of modern scientific socialism, Marx and Engels, themselves belonged to the bourgeois intelligentsia. In the very same way, in Russia, the theoretical doctrine of Social-Democracy arose altogether independently of the spontaneous growth of the working-class movement; it arose as a natural and inevitable outcome of the development of thought among the revolutionary socialist intelligentsia. [ 5 ] North cites Lenins central conclusion on the necessity for the revolutionary party to develop genuinely revolutionary consciousness in the working class: Since there can be no talk of an independent ideology formulated by the working masses themselves in the process of their movement, the only choice iseither bourgeois or socialist ideology. There is no middle course (for mankind has not created a third ideology, and, moreover, in a society torn by class antagonisms there can never be a non-class or above-class ideology). Hence, to belittle the socialist ideology in any way, to turn aside from it in the slightest degree means to strengthen bourgeois ideology. There is much talk of spontaneity. But the spontaneous development of the working-class movement leads to its subordination to bourgeois ideology, to its development along the lines of the Credo programme; for the spontaneous working-class movement is trade-unionism, is Nur-Gewerkschaftlerei, and trade-unionism means the ideological enslavement of the workers by the bourgeoisie. Hence, our task, the task of Social-Democracy, is to combat spontaneity, to divert the working-class from this spontaneous, trade-unionist striving to come under the wing of the bourgeoisie, and to bring it under the wing of revolutionary Social-Democracy. [ 6 ] Essential Works of Lenin: "What Is To Be Done?" and other writings [Photo: Mehring Books] What is central to Woods denigration of the struggle for socialist consciousness by the party is this: By glorification of the bourgeois consciousness of the working class, the IMT creates a theoretical justification for the political domination of the working class by the bourgeoisie. This is exercised above all through the mechanism of the bureaucratic, pro-capitalist trade unions and the Stalinist parties to which Woods instinctively communist youth give their political allegiance or who, through miseducation, are rendered incapable of seeing through the pro-Stalinist sophistries of the IMT. The RCI, Stalinism and the denigration of Trotskyism Following the template laid down by Woods, the RCI Manifesto also speaks of young people drawing revolutionary conclusions instinctively They have not read the three volumes of Marxs Capital, or maybe even The Communist Manifesto. But they are communists, heart and soul Only a hopeless pedant will be offended by their lack of Marxist education. Ideas can be easily learned from books. But mere book-learning can never furnish us with the enthusiasm and revolutionary spirit, which is the flaming soul of proletarian revolutionism. This paean to youth is combined with a dismissal of all other generations of workers as thoroughly demoralised and spending all their time moaning about the situation, which they all agree is hopeless. Many of the old generation are infected with the disease of scepticism and pessimism, for which no antidote exists. Consequently, most of them are fit for nothing. [ 7 ] The insistence that the communist youth have no need of book learning and the attempt to cut them off from workers with actual experience of the class struggle and the political betrayal of the bureaucracies is politically sinister, given that those being spoken of are gravitating around the various remnants of the old Stalinist parties, the most consciously counter-revolutionary tendency on the face of the earth. Leon Trotsky Fundamentally, the manifesto makes explicit the Woods tendencys de facto repudiation of Trotskys struggle to build the Fourth International and its orientation to the Stalinist remnants of the now non-existent Third International. It essentially tries to resurrect the perspective of reforming the Stalinist parties and winning them to revolutionmore than 90 years after Trotsky declared such parties dead for the purposes of revolution in 1933after the Comintern allowed Hitler to come to power without opposition. The RCI manifesto states that since the Stalinist degeneration of the Communist International, no revolutionary international has existed. It continues, At this critical moment in world history, the international communist movement finds itself in complete disarray, by which is meant the Communist Parties across the world. This general description is countered by reference to the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), infamous for its virulent nationalism and support for Stalins crimes. The RCI portrays the KKE as having undoubtedly taken important steps in rejecting the old discredited Stalinist-Menshevik idea of two stages and of adopting a correct internationalist stand on the Ukrainian war, which it characterises as an inter-imperialist conflict. The task of the Revolutionary Communist International is to ensure that the KKE and other Communist Parties that share its position on the Ukraine war are engaged in a Leninist united front and an open and democratic debate: It is our task to return the movement to its genuine origins, to break with cowardly revisionism and embrace the banner of Lenin. To this end, we extend a hand of friendship to any party or organisation that shares this aim. When Trotsky launched the International Left Opposition, he envisaged it as the left opposition of the international communist movement. We are genuine communists Bolshevik-Leninists who were bureaucratically excluded from the ranks of the communist movement by Stalin. We have always fought to maintain the red banner of October and genuine Leninism, and now we must reclaim our rightful place as an integral part of the world communist movement. The time has come to open an honest discussion in the movement about the past, which will finally break with the last remnants of Stalinism and prepare the ground for lasting communist unity on the solid foundations of Leninism. [ 8 ] This orientation to the Stalinist parties is underway. In November 2023, the IMT reported a joint meeting between Marxist Left and the Brazilian Communist PartyRevolutionary Reconstruction (PCB-RR) on Ukraine and Palestine during which the leader of the IMTs Brazilian section Jorge Martin praised the PCB-RRs campaign in defence of proletarian internationalism and declared that all true communists find ourselves on the same side of the barricade. [ 9 ] Jorge Martin speaking at an IMT event in 2018 [Photo: Revolutionary Communist Party/YouTube] Jorge Martin was given pride of place at the Revolutionary Communist Internationals founding conference. On March 27 this year, an open letter to activists of the Portuguese Communist Party [PCP]issued by Collectivo Marxista following snap elections on March 10began by reassuring the Stalinists that this criticism is not aimed at attacking the PCP. On the contrary, Colectivo Marxista is deeply concerned about the crisis of the most important workers party in the history of Portugal, a party that brings together some of the best and most class-conscious fighters of the Portuguese proletariat. It urged PCP activists to study the ideas of Marx and Lenin that gave life to your organisation more than a century ago and revolutionary members of the PCP and the Portuguese Communist Youth to fight shoulder to shoulder to regenerate communism in Portugal, for a truly revolutionary communist party, on the basis of Lenins Communist International and the principles of Marx and Engels. [ 10 ] The manifesto of the new Revolutionary Communist International also makes clear that the Woods tendency has by no means abandoned its traditional orientation to the social democratic parties and the trade union apparatus. It denounces pseudo-Trotskyist sectarians who imagine that the mass organisations can merely be written off as historical anachronisms and confine themselves to shrill denunciations of betrayal, insisting that the great majority of the working class remain under the influence of the traditional reformist organisations and there is no way that the working class can avoid passing through the painful school of reformisms. The new Revolutionary Communist Parties must therefore do nothing that leads workers to see the Woods group as alien elements or enemies and proposes in some circumstances to send all our forces into the reformist organisations in order to win over the leftward-moving workers to a firm revolutionary position. [ 11 ] To such positive developments, and as proof of the radicalisation of a section of the trade union bureaucracy, is added the very interesting public declarations by a man called Shawn Fain, whos the president of the UAW, thats the powerful United Auto Workers of America, a very powerful Union Woods cites Fains statement supporting the students against repression about the Palestine movement and the UAWs May Day video where this man actually calls for a general strike in America by inviting other unions to align their contract expiration dates with the UAWs. UAW President Shawn Fain, left, greets President Joe Biden as he arrives in Michigan for a campaign event in February 2024 [AP Photo/Evan Vucci] He says of Fain that he is not a Marxist and hes very confused and he makes contradictory declarations, but then insists again that The working class is not the unions, nor is it the Labour Party. But we do not write off either the unions or the Labour Party. We dont do that. We dont make that sectarian mistake. [ 12 ] Draw the lessons of history: Build the International Committee of the Fourth International For the former IMT to proclaim its political farsightedness in recognising that a leftward movement, especially among the youth, is developinganimated by loathing of the Labour Party and contempt for the leftsis breathtaking hypocrisy. But that is what it does, with the Manifesto of the Revolutionary Communist International now boldly proclaiming The bankruptcy of the Left, and citing Syriza, Podemos in Spain, Bernie Sanders in the USA, and Corbyn as having initially aroused the hopes of many people before they capitulated to the pressures of the right wing. This too is a necessary political conceit, an attempt to conceal the actual political record of the Grant-Woods tendency and to lend it a degree of credibility among young people who do not know enough to call them out. This only underscores the dangers posed by the lack of historical knowledge among young people that is positively celebrated by Woods. The road to socialism does not run through the formation of a new (non) Revolutionary Communist International led by political bankrupts such as Woods, pursuing a regroupment with the flotsam and jetsam of Stalinism. For much of the post-war period, the genuine representatives of Trotskyism waged a protracted struggle not only against the Stalinist and social democratic parties and trade unions, but a plethora of pseudo-left groupings that dedicated themselves to opposing an independent revolutionary turn by the working class. What Woods, et al, now dare to dismiss as the defence by a sect of an orthodoxy disproved by events, as they themselves oriented to the counter-revolutionary bureaucracies, represented the essential struggle for the perspective of world socialist revolution and the international party required for its realisation. That struggle has been vindicated by the restoration of capitalism in the Soviet Union and the collapse and right-wing transformation of all the old bureaucratic organisations into advocates of austerity and war. When the ICFI made its analysis of globalisation in 1988 in its world perspectives document, it drew the conclusion that the resulting internationalisation of the class struggle laid the objective basis for the construction of the Fourth International as the new leadership of the working class. [ 13 ] In the ensuing period, while the IMT was clinging to the wreckage of Stalinism and social democracy, the ICFI set out to not only analyse the unfolding crisis of world imperialism but to educate a cadre on the central lessons of the historic struggle for Trotskyism spanning over a century since the founding of the Left Opposition in 1923. [ 14 ] The Fourth International and the Perspective of World Socialist Revolution: 19861995 [Photo by Available from Mehring Books (www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/06/19/intr-j19.html)] World imperialism has now entered a period of revolutionary crisis. A decades-long assault on the working class imposed primarily through the trade unions, the ongoing destruction of democratic rights, the deliberate cultivation of far-right forces and the launching of a series of bloody wars that threaten nuclear annihilation are creating the basis for a revolutionary confrontation between the working class and the bourgeoisie. Stopping the imperialist powers from plunging humanity into a catastrophe demands nothing less than the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism. But the development of the spontaneous movement of the working class cannot accomplish this task. It requires revolutionary leadership. For young people seeking a way forward, this means rejecting the insincere flattery of the Revolutionary Communist International and beginning a conscious assimilation of all the lessons to be drawn from the history of the struggle for socialism that are embodied in the ICFI. Concluded The Socialist Laborers Party (SLP) in Turkey has launched a petition against the frame-up operation in which 19 of its members, including its chairwoman, were arrested on December 13. They were charged with membership of a fabricated terrorist organization called Trotskyists, 4th Left Construction (Bolshevik-Trotsky). Three of the detainees were placed under house arrest on Tuesday, while the others were released under judicial supervision. The press conference of the Socialist Laborers Party in Ankara. SLP Chairwoman Gunes Gumus is at the center, December 18, 2024 [Photo: @SEPmedya/X] According to the case files, the arrested members have been physically followed for four years, and phone calls, social media accounts and financial records of party members have been examined by the police. Legal party activities such as visits to workers strikes, womens activities, summer camps, interviews were shown as criminal evidence. The World Socialist Web Site and the Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu, notwithstanding their political differences with the SLP, oppose this sham police operation and support the petition. The case based on fabricated charges must be dropped and those under house arrest must be released. This should be part of the demand for the release of all political prisoners. David North, Chairman of the International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site, explained the principled approach of the WSWS on the Turkish state crackdown and the petition on X/Twitter, stating: The Socialist Laborers Party in Turkey (Sosyalist Emekciler Partisi) has been subjected to an attack on its democratic rights by the Erdogan government. Notwithstanding its political differences with this organization, the World Socialist Web Site calls on all its readers to sign the Sosyalist Emekciler Partisis petition and demand the immediate end to the persecution of its members. As the Turkish police attempt to associate a legal left-wing party with terrorism, the political and media establishment in Turkey and allied NATO powers seek to rehabilitate and establish diplomatic ties with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a genuine terrorist organization that has seized power in Syria. Noting the increased repression in Turkey by the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the petition states that the operation and trial process launched against the Socialist Laborers Party (SEP), based on accusations of an imaginary terrorist organization, Trotskyists 4th Left Construction (Bolshevik-Trotsky), is not only an attack on this party but also a serious threat to all democratic rights and freedoms. As stated in the petition, no one except the police knows the name or existence of this fictitious terrorist organization, whose existence allegedly predates the NATO-backed military coup of 1980. The danger posed by this frame-up is explained in the petition as follows: The police can fabricate new imaginary terrorist organizations at will and use similar conspiracies against other actors of the democratic opposition. It went on to say that The criminalization of a legal political party through lawlessness, lies, and manipulation is not only an attack on that party but also an assault on the democratic rights of society as a whole, before adding: Attacks on trade unionists, journalists, political parties, democratic mass organizations, lawyers, and municipalities governed by opposition parties must end! The frame-up of the Socialist Laborers Party is part of the escalating police state repression in Turkey. The Kurdish nationalist Peoples Equality and Democracy Party (DEM)several of whose elected mayors were dismissed and replaced by trusteesannounced that 3,128 of its members were detained and 409 of them arrested last year. While the government jailed for months dozens of people who tried to celebrate May Day in Istanbuls Taksim Square, scores of pro-Palestinian demonstrators were detained or arrested for protesting Turkeys continued trade with and oil shipments to Israel amid the genocide in Gaza. This wave of repression came after Erdogan called for strengthening the internal front under conditions of deepening war in the Middle East and the intensification of the class struggle. On the same day as the operation against the Socialist Laborers Party, Erdogan tried to de facto ban a strike by metalworkers under the pretext of a threat to national security. A few days later, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan visited Damascus, embracing HTS leader al-Jolani. The Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu also issued a statement on the petition on X/Twitter, stating: We express our support for the petition against the frame-up operation against the Socialist Laborers Party and call on all those who defend basic democratic rights to oppose such operations and demand the release of all political prisoners. This struggle must be based on and addressed to the working class, independent of all parties of the capitalist establishment, on the basis of an international socialist program. The statement also underlined that the escalating war abroad means class war and the elimination of basic democratic rights at home, explaining that this is a common agenda of the ruling classes around the world. The SEG emphasized that this especially exposes the reactionary character of NATO member and allied regimes claiming to be democratic, pointing out that the Ukrainian socialist Bogdan Syrotiuk, founder and leader of the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists (YGBL), has been imprisoned since April 25: The case of Bogdan Syrotiuk, the Ukrainian Trotskyist imprisoned on frame-up charges since April 25, is the most striking example of it. Comrade Bogdan, who opposes both NATO and the Ukrainian regime as well as the Putin regime in Russia, and who stands for the socialist unity of the Ukrainian, Russian and international working class against the war, is imprisoned on charges of treason for writing for the World Socialist Web Site. On this occasion, we once again call attention to the global campaign for Bogdans freedom launched by the International Committee of the Fourth International and the World Socialist Web Site and urge you to support it at wsws.org/freebogdan. A terrible plane crash in South Korea Sunday morning has resulted in the deaths of 179 people of 181 on board in one of the worst aviation disasters in the countrys history. While theories have been put forward, the exact cause of the crash is not yet known. It may take months for the full picture to emerge. Rescue team carry the body of a passenger at the site of a plane fire at Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, Sunday, December 29, 2024 [AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon] Jeju Air Flight 2216 crashed at Muan International Airport shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. The airport is located in Muan County, South Jeolla Province in the southwestern part of the country. It is the worst aviation accident for South Korea since 1997 when a Korean Air flight crashed in Guam killing 229 people out of 254 onboard. The flight, which departed from Bangkok, Thailand, was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members. All but two of the passengers were South Korean nationals, the others being from Thailand. The two survivors were crew members who were in the tail section. They have been hospitalized in Seoul, but are reportedly recovering. Jeju Air is one of a number of low-budget airlines based in South Korea that operate throughout East Asia. The company acquired the plane that crashed, a Boeing 737-800, in 2017 after it was operated by Ryanair from 2009 to 2016. The 737-800 is considered a relatively safe aircraft in comparison to the 737 Max, which has been connected to numerous accidents. At present, the crash is being attributed to a bird strike that disabled one of the planes engines, resulting in a loss of power to hydraulic systems responsible for lowering the landing gear. Shortly before the crash, the airports control tower issued a bird strike warning. The pilot of the aircraft sent a distress call approximately two minutes later at 8:59 a.m. The pilot made an initial attempt to land, but was unable to do so. The crash occurred at 9:03 on the second landing attempt, without any of its landing gear deployed or brake flaps in the proper position to slow the planes high speed. It skidded across the runway before smashing into an embankment, and bursting into flames. Fire and rescue crews, which typically would be ready for such an emergency landing, were not prepared. The placement of the embankment has been called into question, with some aviation experts suggesting it was uncommon and unnecessary. According to the Hankook Ilbo, a least one passenger sent text messages to a family member waiting at the airport, saying, A bird struck the wing and we cant land. Yu Jae-yong, an eyewitness staying at a pension near the airport, told Yonhap News Agency, I saw the plane fly over the pension and there were sparks coming from the right wing engine. I was telling my family there was a problem and then I heard an explosion. A firefighting official told the media: After the plane collided with the wall, passengers were thrown out of the aircraft. The chances of survival are extremely low. The aircraft has almost completely been destroyed, and it is difficult to identify the deceased. We are in the process of recovering the remains, which will take time. Acting President Choi Sang-mok declared Muan a special disaster zone, which makes the county eligible for state support. He said on Sunday, We will thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident and devise preventive measures to avoid the occurrence of similar accidents in the future. He ordered an investigation into South Koreas airline safety systems. While a bird strike likely occurred, aviation experts have suggested that other factors may have contributed to the accident. Damage to a single engine should not have knocked out the planes whole system. The second engine should have been sufficient to power the landing gear systems. Marco Chan, a former pilot and senior lecturer in aviation operations at Buckinghamshire New University, told Reuters, Of course there might have been a bird strike. But the consequences are much too big for that to be the direct cause of the accident. Kim In-gyu, director of the Korea Aerospace University Flight Education Center, explained to the Yonhap News Agency, We need to analyze the cause, but its very unusual for all three landing gears to fail to deploy. It is difficult to conclude that a bird strike alone was responsible. We also need to examine whether the aircraft had any pre-existing defects. Jeju Air CEO Kim I-bae was quick to claim that no problems were discovered during the planes routine maintenance check and that no abnormal conditions were reported when the plane took off from Bangkok. However, the day before the accident, the aircraft operated flights shuttling back and forth between Muan and Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; Nagasaki, Japan; Taipei, Taiwan; and Bangkok, Thailand, totaling eight take-offs with little downtime. This has raised questions about Jeju Airs maintenance procedures. In order to maximize flights and boost profits, Jeju Air pushes its crews to use only the minimum maintenance time of 28 minutes between flights required for the 737the time set by South Koreas Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. Lack of time means that faults can be missed. In 2021, a Jeju Air plane took off after damage sustained during its previous landing went unnoticed. A mechanic, who has worked on aircraft like 737s for low-cost airlines, explained to the Hankook Ilbo that the 28-minute time limit means workers essentially perform a walk-through, not a detailed inspection. After all the passengers disembarked, 28 minutes is the time it takes a mechanic to go into the cockpit and confirm there are no warning lights and look with a naked eye that there is no damage to the interior and exterior fuselage. On Monday morning, a day after the crash, another of Jeju Airs 737-800s experienced a landing gear issue. The flight took off from Gimpo International Airport in Seoul and returned safely shortly afterwards. But the fault suggests that the airline has taken little action to ensure another tragedy does not occur. In recent months, a campaign to shorten the working day in Brazil has gone viral on social media, while receiving significant attention from the corporate media. Support for the campaign among Brazilian workers and youth, who are subjected to a regime of brutal labor exploitation in one of the most unequal countries in the world, is being channeled by the pseudo-left Socialism and Freedom Party (PSOL) into the dead end of nationalism and the institutions of the bourgeois state. Protest in Rio de Janeiro for the end of the 6x1 workweek, November 15, 2024 [Photo: Tania Rego/Agencia Brasil] A petition addressed to the National Congress in September of last year demanding an end to the so-called 6x1 work schedule (six days on the job for one off) received almost 3 million signatures, half of them in the last three months alone. Entitled For a Brazil that Goes Beyond Work, the petition states that working hours in Brazil often exceed reasonable limits, with the 6x1 work schedule being one of the main causes of physical and mental exhaustion for workers. The petition calls for a revision of the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT) ... allowing workers to enjoy time for their personal and family lives and the creation of worker protection policies that include the rights to regular vacations, parental leave, limitation of overtime, among others. In September 2023, pharmacy worker Ricardo Azevedo released a video that went viral on TikTok in which he asked: Im wondering when we, the working class, are going to make a revolution in this country in relation to this 6x1 scale? In the same month, he created the Life Beyond Work Movement and the petition for an end to the 6x1 scale. Azevedo, until a few months ago an unknown political figure, was quickly elevated within PSOL and was elected to the city council in Rio de Janeiro. He ran in the October election on the basis of the demand for an end to the 6x1 scale, receiving 29,364 votes, the highest number for any of the partys candidates seeking this position. On May 1 of this year, PSOL federal deputy Erika Hilton authored a Constitutional Amendment Proposal (PEC) in the National Congress to end the 6x1 scale based on the petition. On November 13, she obtained the minimum number of signatures for the PEC to begin going through Congress. According to the bill, under law the work schedule will have normal working hours of no more than 8 hours a day and 36 hours a week, with a work schedule of four days a week with no reduction in pay. Currently in Brazil there exists a 44-hour workweek. The PEC draws attention to the fact that although the post-dictatorship 1988 Constitution reduced the workweek from 48 hours to 44 hours, the other major changes in work schedule legislation have favored businessmen to the detriment of workers, as happened in 2017. In 2017, the federal government led by former vice-president Michel Temer of the Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB) party approved a labor reform that unleashed brutal attacks on the Brazilian working class. Intense disputes within the Brazilian bourgeoisie reflected its intractable crisis amid the countrys biggest economic recession in a century and led to the 2016 impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff (Workers Party, PT) on fraudulent charges. The 2017 reform had the fundamental aim of restructuring class relations in Brazil with a series of measures weakening labor regulations and promoting an increase in informal, low-paid and temporary jobs. Other changes in labor relations made it possible for companies to demand up to two hours of overtime per day, including on weekends, when the 6x1 work schedule predominates. The changes in 2017 replaced the rules in force since the creation of the CLT in 1943, in which workers received 50 percent additional pay for overtime, reaching 100 percent on weekends. Although the labor reform stipulates that these overtime hours must be compensated with an equal number of rest hours within six months, this is often not complied with by companies. According to a survey carried out by insurance company Maxis GBN in 2019, workers in Brazil work an average of 18 hours of overtime every month, adding 4.5 hours to their weekly work schedule. The 6x1 shift is widespread in retail and services, the two sectors with the highest number of formal jobs in Brazil and which need workers every day of the week. Out of the almost 55 million formal jobs in Brazil, around two thirds have a work schedule of more than 40 hours a week and are probably on the 6x1 schedule. In addition to being exhausted, those who work more than 40 hours a week receive low wages, with 82 percent of workers in retail and services earning less than two minimum wages (R$2,824, or US$455) and 42 percent earning up to 1.5 minimum wages (R$2,100). The debate over the 6x1 work schedule in Brazil has also exposed the right-wing role of the PT government of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. On November 11, days before the PEC reached the minimum number of signatures to pass through the Brazilian Congress, the former union bureaucrat and Minister of Labor, Luiz Marinho, wrote on X/Twitter: [T]he Ministry of Labor believes that the issue of the 6x1 work schedule should be dealt with in collective bargaining agreements between unions and companies. Facing backlash for his indifference to the open collusion between unions and companies, Marinho was forced a few days later to describe the 6x1 work schedule as cruel, and say that the government has great sympathy for ending it. What the Lula government fears most is that the significant support for this demand will find expression in the struggles of the Brazilian working class, including federal civil servants who have carried out multiple strikes this year. After being elected with the promise of repealing a series of pro-corporate reforms introduced since Rousseffs impeachment, including the labor reform, the Lula government has since only continued a series of attacks on the working class. As a consequence of his new fiscal framework, Lula supported the approval in Congress of a cut of almost R$70 billion (US$11.3 billion) from the federal budget over the next two years, mainly targeting social spending. The cuts come as Brazils social crisis intensifies amid growing signs of a global economic crisis. Data from a survey carried out by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) shows that six out of eight Brazilian capitals, state and federal, have seen a sharp rise in the prices of basic food items over the last six months. This has certainly contributed to 53 percent of Brazilians believing that 2024 was a bad year for them and their families, according to a recent opinion poll by the Ipsos Institute. The broad popular support for the petition to end the 6x1 scale is only a pale reflection of this crisis and of the massive opposition that has accumulated against years of cuts to public services and the destruction of jobs and historic rights for the working class. However, the Life Beyond Work Movement and PSOL are deliberately seeking to prevent workers and youth from understanding capitalist exploitation at the root of the 6x1 schedule and diverting this demand into futile appeals to the Brazilian Congress based on bourgeois nationalism. Reproducing a series of platitudes from the corporate world, the Life Beyond Work Movement petition and the PEC repeat the old bourgeois nationalist conception that it is possible to find a middle ground satisfying the interests of workers and employers and, consequently, contributing to national economic development. According to the text of the PEC drawn up by PSOL, the adoption of a four-day workweek aligns the countrys labor practices with global trends in the flexibilization and humanization of work environments, representing a significant innovation in human resource management, aimed not only at improving the well-being of workers, but also at promoting an increase in the productivity and efficiency of Brazilian companies. Under conditions of heightened class tensions in Brazil and internationally, PSOL and the Life Beyond Work Movement are working to block working class anger from breaking through the bourgeois parliamentary structure. This aligns perfectly with the petty-bourgeois program of the PSOL, whose specialty is providing a left-wing cover for the PTfrom which it split in 2004. Today it holds posts and ministries in the Lula government, while using pseudo-radical rhetoric to divert all political opposition into the channels of the capitalist state. Today, more than at any other time in history, the productive forces are capable of guaranteeing decent living standards with time off for all workers. However, all of the political organizations involved in the campaign to end the 6x1 scale base themselves on the outdated capitalist structure of nation states and private ownership of the means of production. Changing conditions of grinding exploitation requires the development of an international working class struggle to put an end to the system of wage exploitation, which produces the impoverishment of workers and is leading society to war and dictatorship. As countless examples internationally have shown, particularly in the recent strikes at Amazon and Starbucks in the US, the struggle for social improvements is not a struggle for Brazilians, as the petition states, but for workers all over the world who increasingly confront similar conditions of exploitation within capitalism. The response of the ruling class reinforces the need to build a massive and independent working class movement to prepare for the overthrow of capitalism and organize society on new bases, i.e., socialism. To do this, workers must organize their struggle for better wages and shorter working hours through the formation of rank-and-file committees in the International Workers Alliance of Rank-And-File Committees (IWA-RFC), independent of pseudo-left parties like PSOL . December 26 marked 20 years since a massive tsunami swept across the Indian Ocean, leaving death and destruction in its wake on a vast scale in country after country. Officially, an estimated 227,000 people were killed. Whole villages and towns were literally wiped off the face of the map. Several million more people lost everything and were left homeless. Many were injured and traumatised by the loss of family members and their communities. Tidal waves wash through houses at Maddampegama, about 60 kilometers (38 miles) south of Colombo, Sri Lanka. December 26, 2004 [AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe] The Indian Ocean tsunami was one of the greatest disasters of the past 100 years. The worst hit was Indonesia where more than 165,000 people died. Aceh on the northern tip of Sumatra was closest to the epicentre of the huge 9.2 magnitude earthquake that triggered the tsunami. The death toll in Sri Lanka was 35,262 and 16,389 in India. Another 8,240 people were killed in Thailand, 108 in the Maldives and another 227 in other countries. The majority of the victims were those least able to cope with the disasterthe poor and marginalised, including fishermen and womenforced to live near the coastlines in makeshift accommodation that offered no protection from the towering wall of water. More than half a million people were officially displaced in each of Indonesia, Sri Lanka and India, as well as tens of thousands more in the Maldives, Thailand and other countries. The 20-year anniversary of the catastrophe has been marked by limited coverage in the establishment media internationally. In the main it has focussed on the immediate impact, interviews with survivors still scarred by the events, paeans to the resilience of communities, praise for the international aid effort and soporific claims that lessons have been learnt. In other words, a continuing cover-up! The 2004 tsunami was not simply a natural disaster but a graphic exposure of the failure of capitalist system, the ruling classes and their governments to take the necessary steps to protect populations and assist the victims to recover and rebuild their lives. The initial response of world leaders was one of utter indifference. It was epitomised by US President George W. Bush, author of the criminal invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, who remained holidaying on his ranch and only made a token statement of sympathy days later. The first US offer of financial assistance was a pitiful $15 million. By contrast, ordinary working people in the countries affected and around the world recognised the enormity of the tragedy and provided physical and financial aid. In many countries, donations from private sources outstripped government aid. On the ground in Sri Lanka, for instance, workers, youth and other volunteers cleared debris, attended the injured, aided the homeless and rescued hundreds who would otherwise have perished. When the major powers finally got together to provide relief and assistance, it was always bound up with national economic and strategic interests. The US exploited the opportunity to land American troops in Sri Lanka for the first time under the guise of helping the tsunami victims. The Australian government aimed not only to strengthen its strategic ties with Indonesia. It sent troops as aid workers to Aceh and ensured that its reconstruction aid was tied to contracts for Australian corporations. According to the UN, some $13.4 billion was pledged in aid for relief and long-term reconstructionless than half of which came from governments. A year after the disaster, however, most survivors were still living in tents or other forms of temporary accommodation. Several thousand permanent houses had been repaired or built compared to the hundreds of thousands that were destroyed. A street is littered with damaged vehicles and debris after the area was hit by tidal waves at Patong beach in Phuket, Thailand, Sunday December 26, 2004. [AP Photo/Karim Khamzin] In a WSWS comment one year after the disaster, Wije Dias, the then general secretary of the Socialist Equality Party in Sri Lanka, passionately expressed the contempt and anger felt by many toward the woeful inadequacy of the international aid effort and the media praise heaped on it. It may well be true that the effort to assist the tsunami victims has outshone the response of the major powers to other disasters. But if that is the case, the comments are a devastating indictment of the entire capitalist order. The millions of victims throughout Asia are also entitled to pronounce judgement: if this is the best you can do, you have failed and the social system you represent deserves to be abolished! The scale of the human tragedy was greatly magnified by the lack of any warning or planned responses. Earthquakes are unpredictable but if they do occur undersea then a system of ocean sensors can detect tsunamis and warnings can be issued based on sophisticated modelling. Such a tsunami warning system existed for the Pacific Ocean, but not for the Indian Ocean. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, based in Hawaii, was only established by the UN in 1965, five years after a magnitude 9.5 earthquake off the coast of Chile generated a tsunami that killed thousands in the Philippines and Japan. At least one seismologist, Phil Cummins, warned in October 2003 and again in August 2004 of the danger of a giant earthquake and tsunami centred on Sumatra and urged an extension of the tsunami warning system to the Indian Ocean. Nothing was done. Cummins told Al Jazeera last week of his reaction to the Indian Ocean tsunami: I was shocked. I guess there were feelings of vindication, but also feelings of guilt, because I hadnt been standing on the ramparts and screaming up and down. In retrospect, I should have done that, but I didnt know it would happen so quickly. The reality is that no amount of screaming by Cummins or other scientists would have prompted governments to make the necessary investment. An Indian Ocean tsunami warning system, which was riven by national rivalries from the outset, was only built after the December 2004 catastrophe and suffers from a lack of investment in the necessary social and physical infrastructure. Time is of the essence not only in interpreting data and issuing tsunami warnings but ensuring that the information reaches threatened communities and that people there know where to go and what to do. The 2004 tsunami travelled at around 500 km/hr and took just 10 minutes to hit Aceh. If a warning system had been in place, it is likely that the deaths would have been far fewer. The deficiencies of the Indian Ocean warning system were exposed in 2018 when a 7.5 magnitude earthquake and tsunami killed 1,200 people on the island of Sulawesi. None of the tsunami buoys that measure sea level changes were operational. The only tidal gauge was not near enough to the city of Palu to warn that a seven-metre wall of water was about to engulf parts of the city. Moreover, the quake destroyed many cell phone towers, so text alerts were not received. Cummins told Al Jazeera that, based on his study of geological faults around Sumatra and historical records, a new mega-tsunami could hit at any time, without warning. A lot of people are going to die no matter what, he said, but added that the losses will be much greater if communities are not well drilled in how to respond. The terrible impact of any tsunami will be magnified by the fact that the Indian Ocean coastlines now have greater populations, dwellings are no more substantial than 20 years ago and few resources have been devoted to building sea defences and protected shelters, ensuring warning systems are working, and educating exposed populations. Moreover, the rising sea levels caused by climate change mean that low-level coastal areas are even more vulnerable to giant tsunamis. The lack of necessary investment to ensure the protection of coastal communities is not due to a lack of concern among working people but the fact that under capitalism corporate profits and the national interests of ruling classes always take priority over the basic human needs of the overwhelming majority. Two decades later, that is even more evident in the response of the ruling class globally to the COVID-19 pandemicelementary public health measures were abandoned to ensure business profits at the cost of millions of lives. Wije Dias concluded his WSWS article, One year after the Asian tsunami: an indictment of the profit system, by pointing to the political significance of the response of the working classwords that hold true today: Those millions of ordinary working people throughout the world who selflessly donated aid, and the locals who did everything humanly possible to rescue and support the victims, gave no thought to national or communal divisions. The humanitarian instincts of ordinary people stood in marked contrast to the reaction of the political establishment. They provide a small glimpse of what would be possible if the vast resources created by the international working class were utilised to meet the social needs of the worlds population. One year after the tsunami, the failure of the international aid operation and the desperate conditions facing the majority of survivors demonstrate that the spontaneous sentiments of ordinary people must be given conscious expression in a political movement that sets out to replace the outmoded system of capitalist nation states with one based on international socialism. That is the perspective of the International Committee of the Fourth International and the World Socialist Web Site. Sri Lankan police, gov't websites hit by cyber attacks Xinhua) 16:59, December 31, 2024 COLOMBO, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Several Sri Lankan government institutions have faced cyber attacks, a police spokesman told local media on Tuesday. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) K.B. Manathunga said the official YouTube channel of the Sri Lanka Police Department has been hacked. Manathunga added the official website of the Sri Lanka Department of Government Printing has also been hacked and its data has been altered. Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) and the police are currently investigating the cyber attacks, he said. SLCERT last week warned that government websites were vulnerable to attacks and said it was planning to carry out a series of programs to educate government servants on dealing with cyber attacks. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Scientists from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (Spain) have conducted a new study showing that tea bags can be harmful to health. According to scientists, one such bag can release billions of hazardous microplastics into the body. ADVERTISIMENT During their experiments, the team found that most of these microplastics are absorbed by intestinal cells that produce mucus. But some of them can penetrate into the cell nucleus, the part that contains genetic material, MailOnline writes. But the long-term impact of this microplastic on human health remains unclear. "The potential health effects of environmental micro/nanoplastics (MNPLs) are a growing concern. In addition to environmental exposure, other sources, such as food packaging, including herbal/tea bags, may also be significant," the researchers comment on the study. Previous studies have shown that food packaging is a major source of microplastics. However, there has been little research on the amount of plastic we consume from tea bags. ADVERTISIMENT The team investigated the microplastics released from three popular types of tea bags that can be easily purchased at any supermarket: nylon, polypropylene, and with an unknown polymer filter. For each type of tea bag, the researchers transferred 300 of them into a 1 liter beaker containing 600 ml of water at 95C. The team found that all three types released a huge amount of nanoscale particles into the water. Polypropylene tea bags were the worst, releasing approximately 1.2 billion particles per milliliter with an average size of 136.7 nanometers. Nylon tea bags released 8.18 million particles per milliliter with an average size of 13.8.4 nanometers. ADVERTISIMENT The researchers then colored the microplastic before exposing it to different types of human intestinal cells. In this way, the scientists found that intestinal cells that produce mucus absorb plastic the most, and some particles can even penetrate the cell nucleus. Humans can be exposed to plastic particles through the consumption of food, drinking water and through the air. However, the level of human exposure, the concentrations of chronic toxic effects, and the underlying mechanisms by which microplastics cause exposure are not yet sufficiently understood to make a full assessment of the risks to humans. Scientists point out that they are most concerned about the ability of such particles to penetrate cells, causing changes in cellular functions, especially when interacting with organs in children. Based on the findings, the researchers call for urgent research into the effects of microplastics on the human body. "As the use of plastic in food packaging continues to grow, research and policy development must address the challenges posed by MNPL contamination to ensure food safety and consumer welfare," the researchers said. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The conditions facing inmates in Canadas jails and remand centres have for some time included the distinct possibility of death by negligence or outright abuse, against a backdrop of the prioritization of efficiency over safety. Edmonton Remand Centre [Photo by jasonwoodhead23 / CC BY 2.0 According to researchers with the Tracking (In)Justice project, the already unacceptable state of affairs has been getting steadily worse over recent years with over 150 deaths in custody each year identified on the basis of incomplete research for 2021 and 2022. One recent case illustrating the dire conditions is that of 29-year-old Marcus West. Normally, his death would probably have gone almost unremarked as there is usually very little detailed media reporting of such incidents. However, his death was one of three in quick succession at the Edmonton Remand Centre (ERC) in October 2024, and his distraught grandmother demanded answerswhich made her willing to speak to CBC News. West was arrested in Edmonton on October 9 and sent to the ERC where he was held prior to a bail hearing scheduled for October 16. Before that could take place, police notified Margaret McLennan, Wests grandmother, that they needed to speak to her in person. A Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer and victim services workers arrived at her rural Alberta home on the evening of October 12 to notify her that her grandson was dead. McLennan was told West was in custody, and he died from withdrawal. She said, I want to know, at least, how he died. Dont just say withdrawal. There was all kinds of guards and cameras. He could have got help, right? Recovery Alberta, the provincial health authority that manages correctional health services, said that due to patient confidentiality, no official causes of death have been released for any of the three deaths at the ERC in October. The families of all three will now have to wait years for the inquest procedure to run its course. An internal provincial corrections board of inquiry will be convened and a public fatality inquiry will likely be required to examine the circumstances of the deaths and make recommendations to prevent future similar occurrences. But that process takes years to complete. At the end of October, the ERC alone accounted for seven deaths on the provinces fatality inquiry list, with one case still dragging on since 2017. With the process being so drawn out and the results being typically nothing more than another series of non-binding recommendations, the potential for meaningful reform of any kind within the corrections system is purposely remote. While the protocol for reporting and investigating deaths in jails varies by province, the common experience for families across the country is one of waiting for years to be presented with any meaningful explanation of their personal tragedy. A recent coroners inquest into the deaths of five men at the Niagara Detention Centre (NDC) in Ontario led to a jury making 66 recommendations. Timothy Anderson, Murray Balogh, David Cowe, Michael Croft and Jahrell Lungs all died of drug-related causes between 2018 and 2022. Similarly to Marcus West at the ERC, the five men had only been held at the NDC for a few days before their miserable deaths. The jurys recommendations include adopting harm-reduction principles, implementing 24-hour nursing services, recruiting addiction counsellors, abandoning zero-tolerance policies for drug use, continuously monitoring patients at risk of overdosing, and allowing direct access to the opioid overdose treatment Naloxone. According to the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario, the recommendations will be followed up with the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General and the NDC within six months. But as the jurys suggestions are not mandatory, any or all of them may be declined. That five deaths under similar circumstances were repeatedly tolerated over the space of four years without immediate action being taken to minimize the probability of recurrence indicates the level of comfort with which such events are accepted within not just one institution, but the ruling class and system as a whole. The real priorities of the judicial system were laid bare in the course of the inquest through the testimony of medical experts and workers at the NDC. Witnesses were required to answer questions from lawyers representing the Coroner and the Ministry of the Solicitor General, which oversees provincial jails, as well as from the Prison Harm Reduction Coalition, a community organization advocating for the incarcerated. Patrick Sproat, deputy superintendent of the NDC, essentially preempted the work of the inquest jury when he laid out the reasons that various measures to safeguard lives are not now, nor likely will be, implemented. Sproat said, We need to take everything into account to ensure the jail is operating as optimally as possible. Questions about the possibility of call buttons in cells or closer monitoring of intoxicated inmates were dismissed as likely unfeasible due to frequent false alarms and draining of staff resources. And regardless of the proven efficacy of Naloxone to prevent overdose deaths, giving inmates direct access to the medication would allow them to manage the adverse effects of proscribed conduct outside of the control of staff, he declared. Further proof that the deaths of people in custody are a low priority for the responsible authorities is given by the researchers who launched the Tracking (In)Justice project out of social necessity. As they state: There is no sustained civil society or government body keeping track of police-involved deaths or deaths in custody in Canada. Independent academics have attempted to keep track of deaths in custody, families and friends of victims of police killings have tracked deaths in their communities, and journalists have reported on police-involved deaths, and occasionally relevant statistics are released in reports from various oversight bodies. But it remains there is no publicly available, verified, sustained, and comprehensive source for this information. The lack of data prevents researchers, policymakers, advocates, and communities most impacted by police violence from answering basic questions about police use of force, police-involved deaths and deaths in custody. Using information from publicly available sources, including department of justice reports, coroners websites, inquest documents and media articles, as well as filing 21 Access to Information and Freedom of Information requests, the Tracking (In)Justice project assembled the largest dataset on deaths in custody ever created in Canada. The database provides penetrating insights across a variety of aspects, but is admittedly hampered by the lack of detail and outright gaps in official records. The researchers compiled a list of 2,131 deaths in police custody, prisons and jails, and in youth, immigration and psychiatric detention since the year 2000. The recent push by some politicians to expand involuntary treatment for mental health and addictions could dramatically contribute to these fatality numbers. While the average life expectancy in Canada is 81, the average age at death in the list is 44meaning that being in state custody can reduce an individuals life expectancy by almost half. Also, 21 percent, or 452, of the deaths were suicides and 299 deaths, or 14 percent, were preventable overdoses. Overall, according to the available coroners documents, 910 of those deaths, or 55 percent, were potentially preventable. Disturbingly, the project documents that although the 24 years of data averages to 87 deaths per year, the more recent datawhich the researchers believe to be more robustindicates an increasing problem. From 2013 to 2023 the average number of deaths per year is 118. But individually there were 129 deaths in 2018, 134 deaths in 2019, 165 deaths in 2020, and 169 deaths in 2021. Of particular note is that 328 of the 2,131 in-custody deaths over the past 24 years were people incarcerated on remand, meaning they were legally innocent as they had not yet been to trial or bail. While interventions are urgently needed to prevent deaths, the real problem is not simply what some call the pervasive culture of inhumanity in prisons. Prisons are a concentrated expression of the values of a capitalist ruling class which also allows homelessness and food insecurity to explode in the working class simultaneously with the massive accumulation of wealth and power by a thin segment of society that is driving to authoritarianism and world war. The growth of in-custody deaths has taken place under the watch of all the establishment parties, Liberals, Conservatives and NDP alike, under conditions of a constant devaluation of human life by the powers that be, whether it be the homicidal policy of mass infection in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the waging of a savage imperialist war against Russia in Ukraine that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives or, most recently, the universal support within the ruling class for Israels genocide against the Palestinians. No amount of reform will substitute for the necessity of overthrowing the social order which relies on brutality and ruthless exploitation to maintain its existence. The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature Latin America Parents hold protest in Mexico City to demand justice for Ayotzinapa 43 On December 26, parents of the 43 teaching students disappeared on the night of September 26 and 27, 2014 marched in Mexico City and rallied at the historic Church of Guadalupe demanding justice for the now presumed dead students. On September 26, 2014, 57 students at the Ayotzinapa teaching college in Guerrero State were attacked in the city of Iguala by police and army forces, while preparing to join a protest in Mexico City. Forty-Three were abducted and disappeared. Mass protest for Ayotzinapa students in Mexico City, 2019 [Photo by Wotancito/ / CC BY-SA 4.0 The demonstrators demanded that the Sheinbaum administration release information about what happened that day, and where their childrens bodies may be located. We keep on insisting that this crime not go unpunished declared the official call for the march and rally. Not one minute of silence, and a whole life of struggle was the slogan of the protest march and rally. Protest demands an end to lay-offs in El Salvador On Monday December 23, the Movement of Fired Workers (Movimiento de Trabajadores Despedidos, MTD) and other political groups condemned the layoff of over 3,000 education, healthcare, court employees and other government employees by the administration of fascist President Nayib Bukele. There are plans to lay off another 8,000, according to a recently approved government budget, part of a deal between the government and the International Monetary Fund. Among the sacked workers are 800 indispensable Health Ministry employees, including doctors, nurses, and laboratory workers. Public clinics will be closed. Scores of workers rallied at the monument to the Constitution in San Salvador, the nations capital city. The demonstrators called their protest Banging pots 2024, black Christmas (El Cacerolazo 2024, negra Navidad). Demonstrators pointed out that the ongoing wave of layoffs meant that thousands of families face a black Christmas. Many of the protesting workers described how, with no explanation, workers were escorted out of their jobs by security officers when they arrived in the morning. Argentine workers march against closure of memorials to victims of torture On Friday December 27, employees the Human Rights Secretariat (DD.HH), facing government layoffs together with hundreds of workers and students rallied around the ESMA Memory Museum, formerly a military School (ESMA) that was largest of dozens of torture and murder centers used by the 1976-1981 Videla dictatorship. Hundreds also rallied around a lighthouse tower in the city of Mar del Plata, another center of torture and murder. The protest was in response to the announced intentions of the Milei administration to shut down the museums and exhibits set up in remembrance of the thousands of victims of the dictatorship. A day before the rallies, DD.HH. employees had begun to receive lay-off telegrams. The shutdown of memorials to the victims of the dictatorship, and of the Human Rights Secretariat, is in line with the historical revisionism that President Milei and Vice President Villaruel now promote that glorifies the tyrannical, fascist junta headed by Videla, which disappeared over 30,000 workers and youth, in alliance with military regimes in Chile, Brazil and Uruguay as part of the US sponsored Operation Condor. United States Contract talks between Costco and 18,000 Teamsters stalled The Teamsters union announced December 20 that contract negotiations with Costco remain stalled. The union said the company had rejected 98 percent of the drivers and warehouse workers non-economic proposals. Management has also reduced the number of remaining negotiating sessions from five to three. Photo taken outside a Costco Wholesale store located in Connecticut in November, 2021. [Photo by Jacob Blanck / CC BY-SA 4.0 Confronted by the militancy and anger of workers, Tom Erickson, director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, issued a blustering statement declaring, We wont settle for a penny less than a record-breaking agreement that reflects their worth. And if Costco fails to present an acceptable contract offer, we will not work a day past the January 31 expiration date. Some18,000 Costco workers have joined the Teamsters in the recent period and are demanding improvements in wages, seniority and a grievance procedure. Costco workers around the country have voted to grant strike authorization, in some cases by near-unanimous votes. Utah ski patrol workers strike over wages and benefits Nearly 200 ski patrol workers at the Park City Mountain Resort in Park City, Utah, launched a strike December 27 after months of negotiations failed to meet workers demands on wages, benefits, paid time off, holiday pay and parental leave. Workers with the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA) voted by a 98.5 percent margin a week earlier to strike and a subsequent seven-hour mediated negotiating session did nothing to change matters. Vail Resorts, which operates Park City, says their current proposal amounts to a 4 percent increase. The union responded, The company confirmed the 4 percent offer it has been publicly communicating includes our merit increases earned last season under our old contract, which the company has been withholding as leverage in these negotiations. This makes the companys latest proposal effectively a 0.5 percent increase for the bargaining unit. The union is seeking a starting wage of $23 an hour over the current $21 and additional pay for veteran patrollers with advanced skills. Also, workers want to adjust their benefits package to include a stipend for the months they are employed and put an end to the burden of having to switch insurance brokers every six months. Vail has responded to the strike by bringing in ski patrols from its other resort operations. The PCPSPA has issued an Instagram post appealing to ski patrol workers at other mountain resorts: We are reaching out to our larger patrol family, either with Vail Resorts or not, and asking you to NOT accept any offers to come and work at Park City in the event we are forced by the company to go on strike. Park City Mountain Resort is a major tourist attraction and employs a considerable number of Park City residents. It features several training courses for the US Olympic ski team and has hosted snowboarding and alpine giant slalom events. Piedmont Airline workers rally to demand increased wages Passenger service and ramp workers for Piedmont Airlines picketed outside Norfolk International Airport December 16 to draw attention to dismal wages, safety issues and the lack of healthcare for part-time workers. The 176 Piedmont workers are one section of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) who have been holding pickets at ten airports across the United States. The CWA has been negotiating with Piedmont for more than a year. The companys proposal calls for a mere 16 cents an hour pay increase over the course of a five-year contract where starting pay is $12.50 an hour. The upper pay range tops out at under $19 an hour. Piedmont is a regional airline headquartered in Maryland and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group. In 2023 it brought in revenues of $13.6 billion. Canada Ontario community college faculty near January strike date About 15,000 full and part-time professors, instructors, counsellors and librarians, members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), could be in a legal strike position early in the new year at the provinces 24 public colleges. The countdown to any possible job action comes after 30 days of bargaining, 4 days of conciliation, a 76 percent strike vote, and 3 days of mediation with the College Employer Council (CEC)the bargaining agent for the managements of the colleges. The union and management have scheduled one last non-binding arbitration mediation to be held January 6 to7. The education workers are demanding a significant increase in wages, an end to unpaid labour and enhanced job security. Three-quarters of teachers, counsellors and librarians are employed under low wage short term contracts with little to no benefits or job security. In addition, the workload formula for the education workers has not been revised in 40 years. Today, about one-half of bargaining unit members are not paid for preparation time, student evaluations and curriculum development. The unpaid time can amount to a significant portion of the workers workday. The predicament faced by college employees is rooted in years of budget cuts by Ontario governments of all political stripes over the past several decades. In order to fund the Ontario colleges to the average of other provinces, it is estimated that the disbursements by the hard-right provincial Conservative government of Premier Doug Ford would have to double. With no such funding expected, colleges have moved to prop up dwindling finances through a steady increase in tuition fees, with particularly large jumps in tuition for international students. But with recent moves by the federal Liberals to slash the number of foreign student visas, revenues from tuition sources have already decreased by $752 million. Many may think that the right and left sides of the human body are or have to be symmetrical. However, this is not the case with feet, which often come in two different sizes. ADVERTISIMENT The Center for Foot Care in Liberty, Ohio, said that about 80% of the US population has a larger left foot than the right one. Researchers at City Chiropody and Podiatry in London agreed, explaining the difference by saying that the majority of the world's population is right-handed, which means the left foot trains more and gets a little bigger to maintain body balance, LiveScience writes. "Nobody's feet are exactly the same. Our bodies are somewhat symmetrical, but not always symmetrical," said podiatrist Corrine Renne. A study conducted back in 1983 involving 4,000 women and 2,800 men from the United States found that none of them had a pair of feet that were exactly the same size and shape. ADVERTISIMENT A 2018 study by SATRA Bulletin, a specialized shoe and leather publication, confirmed these findings. After analyzing 2,890 people in the UK, the researchers found that 19% of people can have feet that are more than 4 millimeters long. "A similar trend is seen in the USA, and in China no less than 24 percent of people have a difference greater than 4 millimeters," the 2018 study said. Which foot is usually bigger: right or left There is no consensus on whether the left or right foot is usually the larger of the pair. However, most researchers are inclined to believe that people tend to have a larger left foot. After all, the majority of the world's population is right-handed, so the left foot is trained more and becomes more massive to maintain body balance. A 1983 study noted that although it is commonly believed that the left foot is usually larger than the right, scientists have found that the probability of a person having a larger foot on the left or right is actually the same. So a 2018 study showed, on the contrary, that 50.7% of British women and 54.8% of British men have a longer right foot than the right one. ADVERTISIMENT Why your feet are different-sized There are also other factors that can lead to differences in foot size, scientists state. "For instance, women can experience a bit of discrepancy in foot size during or after pregnancy," said Corrine. Experts also note that a number of birth conditions can lead to the fact that the size of one foot is significantly different from the other. "If you're born with a club foot, that whole extremity is smaller than the opposite side," said Jacob Wynes, associate professor and chief of orthopedic services at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Brachymetatarsia and brachymetapody are conditions in which one or more toes are shorter, respectively, Wynes noted. For example, in a condition known as digital hypoplasia, toes may be underdeveloped or incomplete. ADVERTISIMENT According to the Center for Foot Care, injuries can also change the size of the foot, especially in childhood when the bones are still developing. Wearing a plaster cast on the foot for a long time can also lead to weakening and contraction of the muscles, add the experts from City Chiropody and Podiatry. Renne added that the difference in foot size can be the result of more frequent use of one foot than the other, such as in a ballet dancer - this can increase muscle mass and thicken the structure of the foot. Is treatment necessary? According to doctors, if the difference in foot or limb length is severe enough, surgery may be necessary. Surgeries such as bone grafts or bone cuts can lengthen or shorten the bone. "People can usually tolerate about 2 centimeters [0.8 inches] of change" from surgery," said Jacob. However, in most cases, different-sized feet are just a minor inconvenience and do not require any surgical interventions, experts say. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Swirling shells from the beach of an exotic country are an exclusive souvenir and a free gift for a colleague or friend. However, for customs officers, even the smallest things are a reason for a fine. Thus, they check all your luggage and take away prohibited items. ADVERTISIMENT You will definitely be detained at the airport for transporting weapons, drugs, and pornography, but that's not all on the list. OBOZREVATEL has named simple items that cannot be taken out of resorts. Medicines Strict rules on the import and export of medicines apply almost everywhere. The main requirements to bring medicines are a receipt and undamaged packaging. Narcotic and psychotropic substances are prohibited, and the EU has restrictions on codeine and ephedrine, which are part of some cough drops. If these medicines are prescribed, you can carry up to 20 pills with a prescription, stamp, and signature. In China, a tourist cannot take out medicines worth more than 300 yuan (about 40 dollars), as customs officials consider it as transportation for sale. ADVERTISIMENT Books Books that are more than 50 years old, including scientific works, valuable newspapers and magazines, are prohibited from being exported from Italy. Customs officers will check the entire library of your suitcase, looking for bookstore stamps. In Cuba, the workers will also look through your books to make sure you are not taking them from free libraries. Shells Almost every country prohibits the export of objects from the sea, especially corals. In Vietnam, Egypt, Thailand, and the Dominican Republic, you can get a fine even if you just take a piece of coral out of the water. Cultural heritage Anything that resembles the country's cultural heritage must have a receipt. For example, it is forbidden to export Buddha statues that are taller than 13 centimeters from Thailand. In Tunisia, you can't take out products made of wood, leather, ceramics, and stones. Customs officers from the Dominican Republic will take away orchids, shells, and corals. In Turkey, workers carefully check carpets - they must be accompanied by a receipt with the date and manufacturer. National currency Often, tourists have some local money left in their wallets at the end of their trip. Sometimes this can lead to big problems at customs. In India, Tunisia, the Dominican Republic, and many other countries, it is forbidden to take even a few coins abroad. Stuffed animals and some plants You cannot export turtle shells, scorpions, stuffed birds and animals from almost all Asian countries. You will pay a fine for such a violation. For example, in Vietnam, an attempt to transport such items will cost you $500. With a new year comes new hopes, new fears, and new resolutions. While we all want to lose a little weight or be more active, my main resolution for 2025 is simple: watch more shows. Fortunately for all of us, Netflix is more than willing to help us achieve that goal. January 2025 has a lot of new shows to feast on, with the most prominent being the second seasons of the hit action series The Recruit with Noah Centineo and The Night Agent. But there are also three underrated shows on Netflix that deserve your time and attention. Need more recommendations? Check out the best new shows to stream this week, as well as the best shows on Netflix, best shows on Hulu, best shows on Amazon Prime Video, and best shows on Disney+. Harlan Cobens Missing You (January 1) Netflix Dont underestimate Harlan Coben. The bestselling murder mystery novelist has become his own franchise on Netflix, with his last show, Fool Me Once, becoming a monster hit for the streamer. That one was released in early January, so Netflix is hoping lightning strikes twice with the New Years Day release of Missing You, a new limited series based on the 2014 novel of the same name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detective Kat Donovans fiancee Josh went missing 11 years ago. Shes over it, at least she thought she was, until one night while surfing a dating app, she sees his picture on a profile. Is Josh alive? And if so, why did he go missing all those years ago? Kats ensuing investigations yields answers she may not understand or even want. But she has to know the nature of Joshs disappearance, and why she played a role in it. MISSING YOU | Official Trailer | Netflix Sounds intriguing, right? Coben is a master of this sort of thing, and Netflix seems to have found a groove in churning out these adaptations. Like the others, the novels American setting has been changed to an English one, so those desiring a good British crime mystery wont be disappointed with Missing You. If youre still craving more of Cobens work, check out the excellent 2006 French-language adaptation of Tell No One. American Primeval (January 9) American Primeval | Official Teaser | Netflix Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement America, 1857. The young nation is still in its embryonic stage, but its already close to collapse. A civil war is coming, and on the frontier, blood is being spilled daily as settlers battle over land, religion, and honor. This is the setting for American Primeval, Netflixs new Western show from Friday Night Lights creator Peter Berg. Glows Betty Gilpin stars as Sara Rowell, a widow who is trying to protect her young son from the dangers of the world around them. They team up with Isaac (Taylor Kitsch), an emotionally wounded man with a past hed like to forget, and Two Moons (Shawnee Pourier), a Native American teenager who has fled her village and is looking for a new home. Together, they form a found family as they explore the American West and evade all the dangers that come with it. Castlevania season 2 (January 16) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 | Official Trailer | Netflix When it premiered in September 2023, Castlevania: Nocturne was welcomed with open arms by fans of the original Castlevania show. The sequel series contained all the superior animation and voice-over acting that the original had, and advanced the storyline of the Belmont family and its never-ending war on vampires. Now, Castlevania: Nocturne is back, and its poised to be the best season yet. France, 1972. At the height of the French Revolution, the Vampire Messiah is at full power, and Richter Belmont needs all the help he can get. Fortunately for him, hes teamed with Draculas son, the half-human, half-vampire Alucard, to stop Erzsebet Bathorys reign of terror before her bloodlust drowns France and its warring citizens in a river of blood. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Endemol Shine Australia Alf Stewart (played by Ray Meagher) wants some answers after his near-death experience at Northern Districts Hospital on Home and Away (1:45pm - see our TV Guide for listings)... Alf almost died when hospital doctor Bree Cameron (Juliet Godwin) froze in fear as he started to crash following a heart attack. Alf puts doctor Levi Fowler (Tristan Gorey) on the spot and questions what went wrong. Levi admits that the EMERGENCY situation deteriorated quickly. It is a miracle that Alf is still alive! Shaken by his close brush with death, Alf decides to pack his bags and hit the road. WHERE is he going? Meanwhile, Bree remains worried that her medical career could be over following her suspension from the hospital. Bree's boyfriend, Remi Carter (Adam Rowland), remains worried as she continues to blame Levi for her downfall. Is there anyway that Bree will start to accept responsibility for what happened? Things are getting heated at the Board Shop between employees, Kirby Aramoana (Angelina Thomson) and Abigail Fowler (Hailey Pinto). Abigail is not happy when boss Mali Hudson (Kyle Shilling) leaves Kirby in charge while he heads off. Abigail decides to test Kirby's patience by taking a break and then dismissing her when it's time to clock-on again. Very soon, Mali receives word from his housemate, Mackenzie Booth (Emily Weir) that Kirby and Abigail are at loggerheads! But WHAT is the reason behind the tension between the two women? Home and Away spoilers, Abigail Fowler Home and Away continues weekdays at 1:45pm on Channel 5 Switch over for FIRST LOOK episodes at 6:30pm on 5STAR The series is also available to stream on My5 On Sunday, a Jeju Air flight crashed at Muan International Airport in Botswana, Africa, killing 179 people, making it South Koreas deadliest air accident and the worst involving a South Korean airline in nearly three decades, according to Reuters . The Boeing 737-800, arriving from Bangkok, attempted to land without visible landing gear, skidded off the runway, and crashed into navigation equipment and a wall before exploding. Only two crew members out of the six onboard survived and were rescued from the tail section of the burning plane. They were said to be being treated at hospitals for their injuries, per the head of a local public health center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said that many of the victims were residents of nearby areas coming back from vacation. Two Thai women were on the plane, per government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub. Muan fire chief Lee Jung-hyun said in a press briefing that investigators are examining potential factors of the crash, including bird strikes and weather conditions. Reuters notes that this crash was the worst for any South Korean airline since 2002s Air China crash that killed 129 and the 1997 Korean Air crash in Guam that claimed more than 200 lives. During a televised briefing, Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae apologized for the accident and said the aircraft showed no prior issues nor early signs of malfunction. The CEO also said they will cooperate with investigators and provide support to the bereaved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interim President Choi Sang-mok pledged full governmental support, while Boeing and CFM International, the aircraft and engine manufacturers, expressed condolences. Flights at Muan Airport were suspended following the crash. NYTs Wordle players curious about the answer for todays edition #1291, December 31, can find it along with all the clues, hints, and help to arrive at it here. Wordle is a daily word game that has players find a five-letter word. Help is provided through three distinct colors grey, yellow, and green. Grey indicates a completely incorrect answer, while yellow denotes the correct letter in an incorrect position. Finally, green signifies the correct answer, consisting of the correct letter and correct position. Players get a total of six guesses for the answer. Here are the hints, clues, help, and answer for December 31s Wordle edition. Wordle hint for December 31 Here are some hints to help you arrive at December 31s Wordle answer: Is there a consonant letter? Yes, it is R. Does the letter have a vowel? Yes, it has two vowels, E and U. Are there any duplicate letters? No duplicate letters. What part of speech is it? It is a noun. What does the word mean? An arboreal primate endemic to Madagascar. What is the Wordle answer for today, December 31? The Wordle answer for today, December 31 is LEMUR. According to Merriam-Webster, Lemurs are diurnal or nocturnal arboreal primates that are endemic to Madagascar and the Comoros Islands. These primates have the following visual features: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A long muzzle Large eyes Extremely soft woolly fur Long furry tail Typically eat fruit and plant parts (leaves, flowers, and seeds), and occasionally insects and small animals There are over 100 species of lemur in the world. The Eulemur genus has multiple species like brown lemurs, blue-eyed black lemurs, and red-bellied lemurs. Meanwhile, the Doubentonia genus has just one species, aye-aye. (via Discover Wildlife) King Julien from the computer-animated Madagascar film franchise is a famous lemur who is especially known for his rendition of the song I Like to Move It, Move It. The noun lemur was originally recorded in 1790-1800. The term was derived from the Latin word lemure (plural lemures), which meant ghosts/spectres/shades of the dead. (via Dictionary) The post Wordle Help, Hints & Clues for Today, December 31 appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Sharp Objects, Patrick Melrose, and other series were among the most exciting short series with unexpected endings of the last decade. ADVERTISIMENT In the 2010s, mini series became one of the most popular genres. During the neverending stress, lack of time, and moral fatigue, it was not long sitcoms but short shows with a sharp plot that help fill our evenings. OBOZREVATEL has made a selection of the five best highly-rated mini series that can be binge-watched in just a few days. 1. Alias Grace, Netflix, 2017 Rating: 7.8/10. The protagonist of the series, Grace Marks, an immigrant maid from Ireland, was convicted of the murder of her employer Thomas Kinnear in 1843. Grace claims to have absolutely no memory of the crime, but the facts remain. An influential doctor tries to help the maid recover the events of the past. ADVERTISIMENT 2. Sharp Objects, HBO, 2018 Rating: 7.5/10. The action-packed series begins with an investigation into the death of one girl. Events get more complicated when the police find the remains of a second child. Over the course of eight episodes, the viewer is deeply immersed in the atmosphere of a small town where pain, indifference and despair reign. 3. 11/22/63, Hulu, 2016 Rating: 7.9/10 A fantastic time travel thriller based on the famous book of the same name by Stephen King. The 9-episode series tells the story of an English teacher who decided to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The atmosphere of America in the 60s, chic soundtracks, a non-trivial plot and beautiful visuals are all you need to make this series one of your favorites. ADVERTISIMENT 4. Patrick Melrose, Showtime, 2018 Rating: 8.1/10. You will spend 5 fascinating hours with Benedict Cumberbatch, who played an alcoholic and drug addict quite convincingly. The drama will give you a feeling of discomfort because the events will develop in the most unexpected way, with time jumps from the 80s to the 2000s and the hero's emotional turmoil. 5. Dracula, Netflix, 2020 Rating: 6.8/10. This is the story of a vampire named Dracula living in Transylvania in 1897 which will keep you glued to the screen. The first episode is based on the book. The second one will show what happened on the ship on the way to England, and the events of the last episode take place in our time. At year's end, we're always faced with the terrible specter of personal improvement: resolutions, gym memberships, dry January. All the more reason to really stride into the winter solstice with a firm commitment to personal indulgence. Pour yourself a bourbon and throw another log on the fire. Of course, epicurean delights are best shared, so if you're looking for a great bourbon, you won't be ashamed to pour any of these for your loved ones this holiday season. While a lot of great bourbon filled my glass in 2024, I'm focusing on the best new ones (or at least new to me) that I tried. Sorry, Evan Williams, but I still love you. We just didn't go on any new adventures together. And Col. E.H. Taylor -- magnificent work with that rye, but I've been tasked with bourbon at year's end. See you both in 2025 when you innovate some great new expressions for me to fall in love with all over again. Everyone else, let's get this non-denominational Winter Light Festival Bourbon Celebration Party for Communal Festivities of Fun started. Here are the bourbons that caught my attention in the past year, for you to enjoy without regret including a couple you can pour into eggnog without fear of squandering their strengths! (Or use them however you choose to cook with bourbon.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some recommendations are based on firsthand impressions of promotional materials and products provided by distillers. Read more: 30 Best Gifts For The Bourbon Lover In Your Life Blue Note Juke Joint Blue Note Juke Joint on wooden table in front of white wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Blue Note Juke Joint is an unfiltered, small-batch, straight bourbon clocking in at a very amenable 93 proof. There's no age statement or mash bill disclosure on this Kentucky-distilled and Tennessee-bottled release. A lot of booze gets added to my shelf each year, and this is one of the few bottles that has been steadily drained since first arriving. It's good enough to spend money on, though not so sacrosanct that I reserve it for company and special events. If you can get that honey cask rye, it's the best Blue Note, but the whole lineup impresses, and Juke Joint does so as raucously as its name implies. The nose is chlorine and dog fur while being much more pleasant than either of those sound. (Sorry if your dog doesn't smell as good as mine.) I'm hard-pressed to think of the last time a bourbon, despite its requirements, smelled just of corn ... probably when I had Jeptha Creed's Bloody Butcher, which was one of the funkiest whiskeys I ever put in my mouth. Juke Joint comes across much more traditional, ending with chocolatey and peach notes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It loses its appeal with a touch of water, though, becoming astringent, all lemon pith. However, ice cubes sweeten it back up, if not quite as good as neat. This would be a great Lynchburg lemonade mixer, or poured with some ginger ale on a hot day. Chicken Cock Chicken Cock bottle on wooden table in front of blue wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table While there's a more intense and oakier Chicken Cock Red Stave specialty bourbon out there, I actually prefer the regular stuff. This 90-proof straight bourbon rewards drinking more interactively than Red Stave, which tends to be best as it washes over your tongue unencumbered. Meanwhile, the standard bottle, a revival of a 19th-century brand, gives up the usual lemon scent atop something much more unusual, perhaps poached pear. What you get in the drinking is a far less pronounced oakiness, and a centrally situated mildness that doesn't overcommit to fruit or nut. Adding water brings the richness and sweetness forward without altering its nature, with a similar result on the rocks. However, I do think ice is to be avoided here, as the flavors dilute but do not change beyond a slightly more caramel nuttiness. Chicken Cock is a fine enough bourbon standing on its own many legs; there's no need to change it. It's a good spring spirit: subdued enough not to warm you, and good enough not to take all day drinking on ice. Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon '24 Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon '24 sample bottle on wooden table - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table A list of tasting notes that commences with "snickerdoodles sprinkled with cinnamon sugar powder dipped in maple syrup" and only gets sweeter, might make your eyeballs contract diabetes if you read it all in one sitting. Some crazy things happen at 140.2 proof in the Texas sun. The nose gives, first and foremost, tomato leaves and some canned peaches, before the more familiar Garrison chocolate, caramel, leather, and tobacco play catch-up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For such a high proof, it's real soft on the snoot with no ethanol blowout. The first taste is almost as smooth as the sniff: curious in any instance, let alone at an ABV that could launch a small rocket. Splash a little on your tongue and let toasted coconut walk you through salty-sweet butterscotch and down the lane to a tobacco finish. Reading through whiskey discussions, Garrison Brothers releases feel divisive to me. Cowboy is therefore a cautiously great purchase if you want maximum potency that isn't an ass-kicker. Master distiller Donnie Todd brings these bottles to a richness that rivals Stagg or an 18-year scotch, albeit with a little less complexity. It runs deep if not broad, though adding water peps up all of these qualities at the cost of making it more fiery. On ice, things sweeten up without tannin onslaught, though my preference remains neat. The 2024 release is one of the finest GBs in my recent, if limited, memory as a fan. George T. Stagg George T. Stagg bottle on wooden table in front of blue wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's the proof this list is alphabetical, not ranked, or else Stagg would be in its usual top spot. Look, you're not going to get a bottle of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection's George T. Stagg, although it was the best bourbon of the bunch this year. But you can usually find a bottle of the unadorned Stagg (formerly Stagg Jr.) releases that come out a little more frequently and with less fanfare, even if they have been climbing up to a few hundred dollars in recent years. I leave it to you to debate whether any bottle of whiskey is ever worth more than a day's pay, but I can tell you which bourbon I poured for my family this Christmas, and which one I would indeed pay a few hundred for if I wanted to mark a special occasion. If you take a single recommendation from this list, good luck choosing between Pinhook and Stagg, though you'll find it easier to locate a bottle of the latter on your local liquor store's upper shelves. High & Wicked High-Rye Straight Bourbon High & Wicked High-Rye Straight Bourbon bottle on wooden table in front of blue wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Now this is some fun stuff that drinks really sweet. High-rye with medium toasted #4 char, High & Wicked's 104 proof is non-chill filtered, and gosh, I love all of these adjectives so much already. This ticks a lot of boxes that I take as good signs. The five-year label tells you the whole story, including the two kinds of stills used. Most of the mash bill is locally sourced too, with 51% corn and 39% rye grown in Kentucky. No word on the malted barley. As with Smokeye Hill, I keep finding myself reaching for this bottle without even realizing it's becoming my regular. The latest entry in saying "Man that is good stuff" aloud to no one in particular, H&W's nose comes in heady but friendly: apple cider and gasoline, but only after an onrush of cherry. Like ... possibly the most cherry I have ever inhaled off of a bourbon. Drink it, though, and get ready for light lemon, vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and ... gosh, what else? The right amount of oak for the likes of me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You won't affect this much with water. You need to commit to a side and either drink it neat or enjoy the pleasantly embittered iced version. It's a top pick. Maker's Mark Cellar-Aged 2024 Maker's Mark Cellar-Aged 2024 on wooden table - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Maker's Mark is already an impressive wheated bourbon, but with its new aging cellar in Loretto, Kentucky, the distiller has slowed the climate's roll on its barrels to let them mature at their own pace. As I was able to taste for myself back in September, the resulting Maker Mark Cellar-Aged is a rollicking bottle of exotic flavors not commonly found in whiskey. Although Scotch distilling principles are at play in the cool, moist cellar, they're only a starting point from which to set out for terra incognita. If you like trying new things, Cellar-Aged 2024 offers quite a bit of novelty amid quality, though I'd caution any wheat fanatic from expecting something too far astray from the familiar profile. It delivers exactly on its premise: bold macro notes, with micro ones coaxed out from charging into undesirable territory. But hey, if you want to know what wheated Scotch would taste like, this is one of the brands that brings you closer to an idea. Now, uh ... can we get a single malt/wheat mash bill aged for a decade or so in this wonderful cellar? Murray Hill Club Joseph Magnus Murray Hill Club Joseph Magnus bottle on wooden table in front of white wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Master Distiller Nancy Fraley set out to recreate the 19th-century Murray Hill Club whiskey as a blended bourbon. As she described in a Reddit thread, she used "about 1 barrel of light whiskey to 16 Bourbon barrels of the MGP 21% BBN recipe in order to pay a nod to the historical product while also making it a high end product." The result is all fruit and spice, in a great whiskey worth remarking upon. The nose throws out so much apple, pear, and strawberry, I was making notes before my face even got near it. Once my snout was in the Glencairn, the spice came forward, prompting me to jot down, "Is it possible this has rye and wheat in it?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's a good bit of burn that quickly fades, and you're left with a platformer jump from peppermint to peanut with tobacco and char along the way, ending on some sweet berries. It makes me think that depth and complexity might not be 100 notes, but the liquid's ability to hold and maintain any one of them while you interact with it. Familiar notes triumph in unfamiliar ways, creating a distinguished whiskey that makes me want to own a fireplace and complete manuscripts. Should I buy a pipe? You wouldn't drink this every day, but it's a top recommendation. With water, the burn fades to a low background hum. Even on ice, the oak comes forward brilliantly, lacquering a hunk of beautiful wood. Pendleton 1910 10-Year Straight Pendleton 1910 10-Year Straight bourbon bottle and glass on wooden table in front of white wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the standard bottle has made the brand beloved at the rodeo and divisive online, drawing either all your devotion or scorn, a tasting flight of the full line proves Pendleton whiskeys are so smooth, it's almost suspicious. The 10-year straight bourbon uses a mash bill of two parts corn to one part rye, and boy do they come through in the smelling, along with plenty of fruit and white pepper. Tasting it, these elements sustain themselves while adding a bit of fennel, so you'd better like anethole in your alcohol. Funny enough, I actually preferred the 10-year's smooth, high-rye pepperiness to that of the luxe 20-year, which had the mildest nose of the batch but also the oakiest, amid hay and cocoa. The 20 inarguably has the richest depth of quality, but the 10 has a better taste to my mind -- and great news for you, is easier and cheaper to come by. You'll have to decide for yourself, but it's an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to like whiskey, but can't deal with the kick and burn that so often accompanies it. Name a smoother bourbon that doesn't taste cheap, and I'll call you a liar. Pinhook Pinhook bottle on wooden table in front of blue wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Pinhook isn't a distillery but an artfully sourced series that deliberately alters its profile in its annual releases, seeking to emphasize each straight bourbon's best traits rather than corral them into a consistent shape. This means that year to year, the Pinhook releases are going to vary by what's been sourced and combined. The brand is not the taste but the method. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2024's Vertical Series is nine years old, tracking and tracing a batch of 1,350 barrels as they age from four to 12 years, so not long to go. At this age and stage, the whiskey is rich and very sweet, despite a deceptively muted nose, but even more so with the complexity of long-simered caramel rather than simple sugar. A certain grassiness glides in beneath, yielding to the familiar lemon. The oak is all but absent but can be coaxed out with enough water. Still, I recommend it neat. Why change near-perfection? Pinhook is simply phenomenal, and though its reputation is strong, I think for online chatter, it might be one of the most slept-upon bourbons out there. Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight bourbon bottle on shelf in front of white wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table Now that American single malt is legally its own thing, I expect we'll see a lot of company coming out to Colorado to join Stranahan's. Smokeye Hill's already there doing its own bourbon with heirloom blue corn and well, it might be requisite on those icy elevations malted barley alongside yellow corn and rye. (The label doesn't disclose the exact bill proportions.) Compared to the regular straight bourbon bottle (also made with blue corn), the Barrel Proof Straight promises a lot more caramel and vanilla at first sniff. And where that whiskey was straw-gold, this one has a rich copper hue. Sipping this, I involuntarily uttered, "Ooh, that's really nice." The blue corn comes through in a different way than you might be used to in a bourbon. And while barrel proof is quite naturally stronger (this one was 131 proof), it's curiously also smoother. Its suppressed burn makes way for nice, tangy, and complex sugars. I'm not sure whiskeys get richer than this. A great pick for all of you Colorado trail passholders looking to bring a minimal amount of flask for a maximum amount of flavor. Anything more than a couple drops on your tongue and a couple minutes between sips, and you're speed-running its hall of phantom flavors to your detriment. If you're only getting one bottle of Smokeye Hill, this is the better buy. And you should get a bottle of Smokeye Hill. Templeton Fortitude Templeton Fortitude bottle on wooden table in front of blue wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table This article took a lot longer to compile than expected, because combing through all of my tasting notes for the year, it turned out my favorites were ryes, new-to-me Irish whiskeys, and a couple of incredible Highland Parks. Fortunately, a few American distillers made it easy to nominate both of their bottles Chicken Cock, Blue Note, and most definitely Templeton, whose new Fortitude bourbon joins the Iowa distillery's exceptional Midnight rye as an example of what's waiting to be found on the whiskey landscape beyond the usual borders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An unusually vegetable perfume of celery, corn silks, and the like plays its cards close for a burnless drink of popcorn-flavored sans butter. It's sweet and easy at 92 proof, but if you want to amplify those flavors, funny enough, the way to do it is with a drop of dilution. Serving it on the rocks continues this effect, while adding a touch of citrus. I'm not sure there's a bad way to play Fortitude's hand. If you get the chance, the 10-year single barrel reserve rye is even better, though a much wilder stallion, bucking grain and fruit and -- really, Vaseline? -- from the nose. It opens up to a much friendlier flavor once it's done kicking, expanding on those promises with a rose water taste that swivels into orange blossom. Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No.4: Mammoth Hot Springs Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No.4: Mammoth Hot Springs bottle on wooden table in front of white wall - Brendan McGinley / Tasting Table The latest in preservation-supporting series announces its bourbon in strong aroma, smelling like lemon, straw, and, funny enough, Doritos, or at least a pronounced cumin and to lesser extent, cheese scent. Though the tasting notes aren't nearly so exotic, they are volatile, making it impossible to say it's X, Y, or Z before it morphs into a new taste. The throughline is ... well, I'd say cherry, but I think it's more accurate to say cherry pit. You can chew and churn it to get a fruit punch. All of this works around a minimal and manageable burn. If you like Still Austin, you'll find No. 4 a subdued counterpart that still manages to whip an entire buffet your way. If I have a major criticism, it's that the finish comes in with too much oak, but I'm a light touch, and those who love wood might find it just right for their tastes. While it squares toe to toe with other Wyomings I've had, it stands out more than most. It's quality, rich stuff, but cantankerous enough that it has to be your thing. Case in point, I would skip the drop of water, as it accentuates the oak to a bitter-pill degree, and only brings out a smidge of that Doritos corn. But with ice to mellow it, this expression proves its best self, offering Honey Nut Cheerios instead. Read the original article on Tasting Table. Roy Rochlin/Getty Images As you make your plans to ring in 2025, consider partaking in one of the New Year's Eve traditions from around the world. The past few years have truly been unlike any other, but one thing has been clear: Certain practices are now more important than ever, as they keep us grounded and remind us of the future ahead (and what to look out for, if you're following any New Years superstitions). Travel isn't always an option for everyone around this time of year, so weve rounded up a few of our favorite New Years traditions from cultures all over the globe. Pick one that lends itself to your own celebration, and maybe ask a few friends to join in the fun. Make traditional New Year's food while you reminisce over the past year, give each other New Year's gifts, or just start a new tradition and watch some of the best New Years movies instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May 2025 be a year of good fortune with a generous dose of sanity. Just dont forget to make those New Years resolutionswe need all the good luck we can get. And happy New Year! Times Square New Year's Eve 2020 Celebration Roy Rochlin/Getty Images 1. United States: Watching the ball drop Let's begin our list of New Year's Eve traditions with the one you've likely already participated in: Millions of Americans gather around their television sets (or on the streets of Times Square, despite freezing temps) to watch the ball drop at the stroke of midnight each year. Kicking off in 1907 to ring in January 1908, New York Times owner Adolph Ochs created the countdown event in New York City to draw attention to the Timess new headquarters, and its been an annual spectacle and one of the most popular New Years Eve celebrations in America ever since. A Day in Rio de Janeiro as the City Begins to Shut Down Buda Mendes/Getty Images 2. Brazil: Heading to the beach In Brazil, people usually go to the beach since its the summer there, says Hudson Bohr, a Brazilian photographer based in NYC. Immediately after midnight, youre supposed to jump seven waves while making seven wishes. The tradition is rooted in paying homage to Yemanja, the goddess of water. Before you get in the water, youre supposed to wear all white, as it symbolizes purity, he explains. Bunch of Chardonnay grapes, Valle dei Laghi DEA / ALBERT CEOLAN 3. Spain: Eating 12 grapes One of the easiest New Year traditions for good fortune to replicate anywhere you live comes from Spain. The Spanish start off their new year by eating 12 grapes, which symbolize each strike of the clock. The tradition of las doce uvas de la suerte started in the late 19th century and is believed to ward off evil while boosting your chances of a prosperous and lucky new year. However, this will work only if you manage to eat all of the grapes in a matter of seconds since they need to be gone by the time the clock finishes striking midnight. Fire Burning in Fire Pit Education Images/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 4. India: Building a sculpture of an old man and burning it down Back in Bombay wed make an effigy of an old man that symbolized the old year and burn it at midnight, says Stephanie Fernandes, an associate creative director in San Francisco. The burning symbolizes the passing of grievances from the old year and makes space for a new year to be born. Everyone would gather around singing Auld Lang Syne and then it would turn into a little party. Bombay is very cosmopolitan and was home to people of various faiths; therefore, wed have a ton of different festivals, but this was one that united across ages and faiths. Ceramic bowl of asian style soup with green tea soba noodles, egg, mushrooms, spring onion and tofu cheese, served with chopsticks over old wooden background. Top view, copy space Getty Images 5. Japan: Eating soba noodles Here's a New Year's Eve appetizer idea: People in Japan kick off the New Year by eating a warm bowl of soba noodles. The tradition dates back to the Kamakura period and is tied to a Buddhist temple giving out the noodles to the poor. Because the long thin noodles are firm yet easy to bite, it is believed eating them symbolizes a literal break away from the old year. U.S. Fears Bubbly Shortage As French Champagne Production Drops Sharply Drew Angerer/Getty Images 6. France: Feasting with Champagne While the notion of drinking wine in France is about as groundbreaking as florals for spring, the French up the ante and go all out on Champagne to celebrate the New Year. There is usually plenty of dancing and party hopping, but the food choices, however, remain the same: sparkling wines are typically paired with oysters, turkey, goose, or a Cornish hen. Photo by Chelsea Kyle/ Food styling by Jennifer Ophir 7. Haiti: Sharing soup joumou January 1 is actually Haitian Independence Day, says Olivier Joseph, a graduate student in Chicago. Because of that, there's an important New Years traditional meal associated with the holiday. We eat pumpkin soup, soup joumou, because it was a delicacy that enslaved Black people were not allowed to have. We often go to other peoples houses and bring some of our soup and swap for some of theirseveryone makes it a little different. Smashing Plate Al Barry/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 8. Denmark: Throwing old plates Chucking plates at your friends usually signals a conversation gone very wrong. In Denmark, however, New Years Eve traditions like this bring your loved ones the best luck. Tradition has it that the more broken kitchenware you accumulate on your door step, the better off youll be in the next year. A father and his kids are ice fishing on the frozen Lake Wolfgang Kaehler/Getty Images 9. Canada: Going ice fishing Freezing temps dont keep Canadians from starting the new year with a winter favorite sportice fishing. According to Global News, families will rent heated huts and cooking equipment so that they can enjoy their feast with loved ones on the spot as one of their New Year traditions. Tesco Opens First Own-Brand Supermarket in China Andrew Wong/Getty Images 10. Philippines: Serving 12 round fruits On New Years Eve, families in the Philippines make sure to serve 12 round fruits, like apples, grapes, and plums, which are believed to represent prosperity due to their shape, which mirrors coins. As for the lucky number, each fruit represents one month out of the year. Traditional Mexican Food NurPhoto/Getty Images 11. Mexico: Giving the gift of homemade tamales In Mexico families gather to make New Years Eve foodspecifically tamales, which are corn dough stuffed with meat, cheese, and veggies all wrapped in husksand then hand them out to loved ones on New Years Eve. On New Years Day, the warm pockets are often served with menudo, a traditional Mexican soup made from cows stomach. International Green Week 2018 Agricultural Trade Fair Sean Gallup/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12. Greece: Hanging an onion outside the door Not only are onions a kitchen staple, they can also bring you good luck for the year aheadat least, according to the Greeks. In Greece its tradition to hang an onion outside your door. Believed to symbolize fertility and growth (thanks to its ability to sprout on its own), the onion is hung on the door after church service on New Years Day. Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes and Apples, Burough Market, London Hoberman Collection/Getty Images 13. Colombia: Placing three potatoes under the bed On New Years Eve, Colombian households have a tradition, called aguero, of placing three potatoes under each family members bedone peeled, one not, and the last one only partially. At midnight each person grabs for one with eyes closed and depending on the potato they select, can either expect a year of good fortune, financial struggle, or a mix of both. FD/BREAD Washington Post Studio DATE: February 27, 2008 PH The Washington Post/Getty Images 14. Ireland: Banging bread against the walls To ward off evil spirits, families in Ireland make way for a healthy and prosperous New Year by banging loaves of Christmas bread against the walls and doors throughout the home. GENERAL INFORMATION: Kari Lie makes Kransekake, a Norwegian wedding cake.IN THIS PHOTO: Bloomington, Mn., Weds., May 8, 2002--Kari Lie's Kransekake, a Norwegian wedding cake with many layers. She has decorated it with flags and English crackers. Star Tribune via Getty Images 15. Norway and Denmark: Celebrating with a towering cake Kransekake, a traditional ringed cake often made with at least 18 layers, is eaten in both Denmark and Norway on New Years Eve. The sugary layers, which look like cookies, are held together with a tasty royal icing. This is definitely one of the most delicious traditions on New Years you could try. Pair of heart print boxer shorts. (Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 16. Italy: Wearing red underwear In Italy, it's considered good luck to be wearing red undergarments as the ball drops. How and when this practice started is disputed, but why not give it a try? We'll wear any underwear color in the new year if it means a bright future ahead. Hell, lean in and choose red for your New Year's Eve nails and New Year's outfit too. Who said we can't start new New Year traditions for good luck? Basket with brushes, rags, natural sponges and cleaning products. Anna Puzatykh 17. Puerto Rico: Cleaning your home In many countries, Puerto Rico included, it's customary to start the year by cleaning everythingand we mean everything. The idea behind it is simple: out with the old, in with the new. The idea behind New Year's Day traditions like these is simple: If you start the year fresh, it will continue that way. The New Year Is Celebrated In London Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images 18. England: Listening to Big Bens bells toll On New Year's Eve, it's traditional for British households to gather waiting for the bells of Big Ben, the clocktower at the Houses of Parliament, to ring in the New Year as midnight strikes, says Glamour executive editor Natasha Pearlman. As the bells toll, don't be surprised if a huge circle forms, people link hands, and start singing a traditional song called Auld Lang Syne. Old retro TV against blue vintage wall in the room scanrail 19. Germany: Watching Dinner for One In some European countries, including Austria and Germany, watching this black-and-white British comedy sketch, recorded in 1962, has become traditional viewing on New Year's Eve. Some die-hards even make the four-course dinner featured in the 18-minute sketch. Directly above shot of soup in bowl on table,Aldie,Virginia,United States,USA Linda Hughes / 500px Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 20. United States: Eating Black-Eyed Peas and Collard Greens In the Southern states, especially among Black American families, it's tradition to eat a meal of black-eyed peas, collard greens, and other dishes that symbolize good fortune on New Year's Day. I dont let a New Years Day go by without having some form of greens, pork and black-eyed peas, the food historian Jessica B. Harris told The New York Times. The black-eyed peas are said to resemble coins and promise good luck and health, while the collard greens are thought to resembled paper money and represent greater prosperity in the coming year. Kilt Studio One-One Outlander fans, you'll like this: In Scotland, New Year's Eve celebrations are known as Hogmanay, or the Scottish New Year. There are several traditions associated with the holiday, including the first footing. Basically, the first person to cross the threshold of your home after the clock strikes midnight will set the tone of the yearand it's especially lucky if that person at the front door is a tall, dark, and handsome stranger. Smashed pomegranate Asurobson 22. Greece: Smashing a pomegranate For the Greeks, the pomegranate fruit has been a symbol of fertility, abundance, and luck since ancient times. There's a tradition to smash the fruit on your front porch or door to symbolize filling your home with health and happiness in the next year. The more seeds that splatter, the better luck you'll have! If you don't wish to make a mess yourself, consider including pomegranate on the menu at your NYE party as a fun nod to the tradition. Tourist visiting Spain during winter martin-dm 23. Colombia: Carrying an empty suitcase In Colombia, it's tradition to run down your street with empty luggage on New Year's Eve. Why? If you do, they say you'll have lots of travel in the year ahead. We like the sound of that! You could even make a game of it at your New Year's party and have guests do a suitcase race around the block. Originally Appeared on Glamour New Years Day is meant for fresh starts. But maybe even more, its meant for food. As the new year arrives around the world, special desserts abound, as do long noodles (representing long life), field peas (representing coins), herring (representing abundance) and pigs (representing good luck). The particulars vary, but the general theme is the same: Enjoy food and drink to usher in a year of prosperity. Hoppin John, American South A major New Years food tradition in the American South, Hoppin John is a dish of pork-flavored field peas or black-eyed peas (symbolizing coins) and rice, frequently served with collards or other cooked greens (as theyre the color of money) and cornbread (the color of gold). The dish is said to bring good luck in the new year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Different folklore traces the history and the name of this meal, but the current dish has its roots in African and West Indian traditions and was most likely brought over by slaves to North America. A recipe for Hoppin John appears as early as 1847 in Sarah Rutledges The Carolina Housewife and has been reinterpreted over the centuries by home and professional chefs. The dish reportedly got its name in Charleston, South Carolina, and it is a veritable staple of Lowcountry cooking. Twelve grapes, Spain In Spain, traditionalists eat 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. - Jaime Reina/AFP/Getty Images The people of Spain traditionally watch a broadcast from Puerta del Sol in Madrid, where revelers gather in front of the squares clock tower to ring in the New Year. Those out in the square and those watching at home partake in an unusual annual tradition: At the stroke of midnight, they eat one grape for every toll of the clock bell. Some even prep their grapes peeling and seeding them to make sure they will be as efficient as possible when midnight comes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The custom began at the turn of the 20th century and was purportedly thought up by grape producers in the southern part of the country with a bumper crop. Since then, the tradition has spread to many Spanish-speaking nations. Tamales, Mexico Mexicans favor tamales during the holiday season. On New Year's, they're often served with menudo, a tripe and hominy soup famously good for hangovers. - Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock Tamales, corn dough stuffed with meat, cheese and other delicious additions and wrapped in a banana leaf or a corn husk, make appearances at pretty much every special occasion in Mexico. But the holiday season is an especially favored time for the food. In many families, groups of women gather to make hundreds of the little packets with each person in charge of one aspect of the cooking process to hand out to friends, family and neighbors. On New Years, tamales are often served with menudo, a tripe and hominy soup that is famously good for hangovers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who live in cities with large Mexican populations shouldnt have much trouble finding restaurants selling tamales to go for New Years Eve and Day. In Mexico City, steamed tamales are sold from vendors on street corners day and night. Oliebollen, Netherlands Oliebollen, or fried oil balls, are sold at street carts in The Netherlands during New Year's celebrations. - Bas Czerwinski/AFP/Getty Images In the Netherlands, fried oil balls, or oliebollen, are sold by street carts and are traditionally consumed on New Years Eve and at special celebratory fairs. They are doughnut-like dumplings, made by dropping a scoop of dough spiked with currants or raisins into a deep fryer and then dusted with powdered sugar. In Amsterdam, be on the lookout for Oliebollenkraams, little temporary shacks or trailers on the street selling packets of hot fried oliebollen. Marzipanschwein or Glucksschwein, Austria and Germany Cute little piglets made of fresh marzipan are a tradition in Germany and Austria. - Patrik Stollarz/AFP/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austria and neighbor Germany call New Years Eve Sylvesterabend, or the eve of Saint Sylvester. Austrian revelers drink a red wine punch with cinnamon and spices, eat suckling pig for dinner and decorate the table with little pigs made of marzipan, called marzipanschwein. Good luck pigs, or glucksschwein, which are made of all sorts of things, are also common gifts throughout both Austria and Germany. Soba noodles, Japan Japanese soba noodles -- a great way to start a new year! - Nishihama/Shutterstock In Japanese households, families eat buckwheat soba noodles, or toshikoshi soba, at midnight on New Years Eve to bid farewell to the year gone by and welcome the year to come. The tradition dates to the 17th century, and the long noodles symbolize longevity and prosperity. In another custom called mochitsuki, friends and family spend the day before New Years pounding mochi rice cakes. Sweet, glutinous rice is washed, soaked, steamed and pounded into a smooth mass. Then guests take turns pinching off pieces to make into small buns that are later eaten for dessert. King cake, around the globe King cakes are traditional in cultures around the world. The French do enjoy their galette des rois. - margouillat photo/Shutterstock The tradition of a New Years cake is one that spans countless cultures. The Greeks have the Vasilopita, the French the gateau or galette des rois. Mexicans have the Rosca de Reyes and Bulgarians enjoy the banitsa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the cakes are consumed at midnight on New Years Eve though some cultures cut their cake on Christmas or the Epiphany, January 6 and include a hidden gold coin or figure, which symbolizes a prosperous year for whomever finds it in their slice. Cotechino con lenticchie, Italy In Italy, cotechino con lenticchie (a sausage and lentil dish) is said to bring good luck. - barbajones/Shutterstock Italians celebrate New Years Eve alongside La Festa di San Silvestro. A traditional celebratory feast will include cotechino con lenticchie, a sausage and lentil dish that is said to bring good luck (the lentils represent money and good fortune). In certain households, zampone (another type of pork sausage) is served instead of cotechino. Pickled herring, Poland and Scandinavia Pickled herring is a New Year's favorite in Poland and Scandinavia. Some eat pickled herring in cream sauce while others have it with onions. - gkrphoto/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because herring is in abundance in Poland and parts of Scandinavia and because of their silver coloring, many in those nations eat pickled herring at the stroke of midnight to bring a year of prosperity and bounty. Some eat pickled herring in cream sauce while others have it with onions. One special Polish New Years Eve preparation of pickled herring, called Sledzie marynowane, is made by soaking whole salt herrings in water for 24 hours and then layering them in a jar with onions, allspice, sugar and white vinegar. Scandinavians will often include herring in a larger midnight smorgasbord with smoked and pickled fish, pate and meatballs. Kransekage, Denmark and Norway Kransekage is a tasty tower composed of concentric rings of cake. They are made for New Year's Eve and other special occasions in Denmark and Norway. - V. Belov/Shutterstock Kransekage, or wreath cake, is a cake tower composed of many concentric rings of cake layered atop one another, and they are made for New Years Eve and other special occasions in Denmark and Norway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cake is made using marzipan, often with a bottle of wine or Aquavit in the center and can be decorated with ornaments, flags and crackers. CNNs Marnie Hunter updated this article for 2024. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Central Ohio is full of traditions. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, only 0.3% of Columbus residents are Indigenous, so more than 99% of the city can trace heritage back to another country. As central Ohioans gear up for 2025, consider ringing in the new year with celebrations from the many heritages in and around Columbus. European traditions More than one-fifth of Ohioans can trace their lineage to Germany, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus American Community Survey. A whopping 22.4% of Ohioans self-report as having German heritage. In Franklin County, 17.7% of residents say they have German lineage. The next most common heritage is Irish, with 12.4% of Ohioans and 11.5% of Franklin County residents reporting Irish heritage, followed by English (10.5% of Ohioans) and Italian (5.8% of Ohioans). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Central Ohio restaurants that closed in 2024 According to an English-German website, Germans celebrate Silvester, or the New Year, with plenty of fireworks and lentil soup. The holiday combines St. Silvesters holiday with the New Year celebration, which both take place on Dec. 31. To celebrate with German neighbors, buy a Bleigiessen set and melt a small metal figure over a candle using a spoon. Pour the molten metal into cold water and use the shape to tell your future for the year ahead. To celebrate like the Irish, consider banging loaves of bread on the walls to get rid of pesky bad luck and to attract plenty of food in the new year. According to Good Food Ireland, keep an eye on who walks in the front door after midnight for an indication about how 2025 will turn out. If a dark-haired man is the first to cross your doorstep, expect good luck for the next year. However, if a red-haired girl is the first in the home, prepare for a run of bad luck. In Italy, traditions of wearing red on New Years date back to Roman times, according to Italys tourism department. People are encouraged to attract luck by eating a pork sausage called cotechino with lentils, or by throwing things out of a window to leave weight behind in 2024. According to Project Britain, some British New Years traditions may be familiar, as they sing the Scottish song Auld Lang Syne, a popular midnight tune in the U.S. as well. Across the U.K., people link hands or cross their arms to sing the song when the clock strikes 12. African traditions Just under 5% of Franklin County reports sub-Saharan African heritage, per the U.S. Census Bureau. Sub-Saharan Africa includes 48 of Africas 54 countries, but the state of Ohio reports Ghana, Ethiopia and Somalia among the most common African heritages in Columbus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eatery serving pan pizzas and stuffed cookies opens its doors in Gahanna According to the Community Refugee and Immigration Services, Columbus is home to the second-largest Somali population in the U.S. According to UNESCO, Somalias New Year is celebrated with a three-day festival called Istunka, a mock battle between the populations on both sides of the Shebeele River running through the city of Afgooye. Although the Somalian New Year is in August or September, the festival shares its name with traditional Somalian stick fighting, which is also part of the mock battle. In Ghana, the new year is rung in with Kakamotobi, or the Fancy Dress Festival, a masquerade that stretches from Christmas to January. Local to central Ghana and the Winneba people, it is a colorful festival with brass band music, according to Ghana Web. Children dress up in white costumes decorated with brightly colored designs and a human-like mask before standing along traffic stops and asking for money. According to Absolute Ethiopia, Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, takes place on Sept. 11 annually because of the Ethiopian calendar. Celebrations often last a week and involve young girls singing a song called Abebayeosh, young boys making paintings and lighting bonfires to symbolize a new season of sunshine. Ethiopian New Year celebrations involve feasts and dancing. Asian traditions According to the state of Ohio, 6.7% of Franklin County is of Asian descent, including a large Middle Eastern population. According to Westerville, Ohios Arab American population is the eighth-largest in the U.S, and 1.4% of Franklin County claims Arab heritage. Among the most common heritages are Indian, Chinese and Filipino populations, and central Ohios Arab population is primarily made up from Jordan, Egypt, Iraq and Lebanon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These Ohio bills shaped LGBTQ+ rights in 2024 The Chinese New Year is one of the most well-known cultural celebrations of the new year, and it occurs over 15 days between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20 annually, according to Britannica. Chinese New Year is celebrated with plenty of fireworks, firecrackers and the color red to scare off the monster Nian, who would attack villagers at the beginning of each year, according to Chinese legend. People also hang glowing lanterns, hold nighttime parades and enjoy dragon dance processionals made up of dancers holding long, colorful dragons. In India, the new year of the Hindu lunar calendar typically falls in late March or early April on the western calendar. To celebrate, people make colorful flags by tying silk scarves to bamboo sticks and decorating them with flowers, leaves and candy garlands, according to Outlook India. In the Phillipines, family members gather for a midnight feast, media noche, and display 12 round fruits to bring in wealth and prosperity, according to Filipino-American chef Marlynn Schotland. Kurdish Arab populations celebrate Nowruz, the Iranian or Persian New Year festival. According to the U.N., this calendar rings in the new year on the first day of spring and is celebrated by more than 300 million people annually. According to the National Museum of Asian Art, people celebrate with the Haftseen table, which includes at least seven items relating to new life or renewal, each starting with the letter s. For instance, a Haftseen table will see sib, or apples, for fertility and beauty, along with sekkeh, or coins, for wealth. Central and South American traditions According to the Ohio Department of Research, 4.4% of Ohioans and 6.4% of central Ohioans have Hispanic heritage. Mexican and Puerto Rican lineage is the most common, and Ohios growing Haitian population is well-known after making headlines during the 2024 presidential election. Across nations, many Latin countries adopted the tradition of eating 12 grapes as the clock strikes 12 for good luck from the Spanish, who colonized most of South America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Latin Times, Mexicans enjoy a feast on New Years Eve before midnight, ending with pan dulce, a cake with a lucky coin baked inside. Whoever gets the coin in their slice will be the luckiest person in the New Year. Opening the doors at midnight to usher out bad energy is also encouraged, and throwing coins outside and then sweeping them inside is said to bring prosperity. Intel Foundry scholarship supports Ohio STEM students As a territory of the U.S., migration from Puerto Rico is not immigration, but Puerto Rican heritage reflects 26% of the central Ohio Hispanic population, according to state research. According to Discover Puerto Rico, people on some parts of the island throw buckets of water out their window to drive away evil spirits. Another way to keep evil forces at bay is to fall backward into the waves as the clock strikes 12. According to the University of Maryland, Haiti is often considered a Latino country even though it is not a Hispanic country, as it is in Latin America but was colonized by the French, not the Spanish. New Years Day is a double celebration in Haiti, where Jan. 1 is also Haitian Independence Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Lumiere dEducation, a Haitian nonprofit, Haitians celebrate by making joumou, a squash soup that was originally only permitted for slave owners in Haiti to eat, so Haitians eat joumou to celebrate their freedom. The soup is traditionally made with calabaza squash, beef, peppers, herbs, pasta and vegetables and is made to be shared. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. If a cruise is in your 2025 travel plans, take note: the U.S. State Department just updated and reissued a serious Level 3 travel warning for a country included on a number of upcoming cruise itineraries. The State Departments country-specific travel advisories are issued to help U.S. citizens understand security risks in each country and get clear advice on how to stay safe when traveling abroad. Travel advisories are set from Level 1, the lowest warning level, to Level 4, the highest. Related: US shares travel warning for major European ports When a Level 3 or higher travel advisory is issued for a country, the State Department wants travelers to understand that serious safety and security risks exist there. Although a Level 3 travel advisory does not state that U.S. citizens should not travel to the country, it does warn of a significant threat and advise travelers to reevaluate their decision to visit the destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruise lines often ignore Level 3 warnings. That's generally because, in many ports, the activities are limited to a certain area, and the cruise line can keep passengers safe. That, for example, is why multiple cruise lines still call on Roatan, Honduras, despite it being under a Level 3 warning. Now, another cruise destination has been placed on that list by the State Department. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. Guatemala has been under a Level 3 travel advisory. Image source: Pixabay Level 3 travel advisory reissued for Guatemala On Dec. 30, the State Department updated and reissued its travel advisory for Guatemala. The Central American countrys Pacific Ocean cruise port, Puerto Quetzal, is visited regularly by cruise ships sailing Panama Canal itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line all have upcoming calls to the port, which is considered a gateway to Guatemalas inland attractions like the colonial town of Antigua. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department lists Guatemala as a Level 3 travel advisory, recommending that travelers reconsider travel to the country due to crime. The advisory also says that U.S. citizens should not travel to the higher risk areas of San Marcos Department (except the city of San Marcos), Huehuetenango Department (except the city of Huehuetenango), and Zone 18 in Guatemala City and the city of Villa Nueva due to crime. The advisory states that: Some areas of Guatemala have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates. While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crimes. Related: Despite US warning, cruise lines visit violent Caribbean port The advisory also offers information about a program designed to help travelers stay safe when visiting Guatemala. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guatemala has a program called the Tourist Assistance Program (ASISTUR) that helps protect tourists. ASISTUR works with tourist police (DISETUR) in popular areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Tikal, Quetzaltenango, Puerto Barrios, and Coban. They also have an emergency call center that speaks both Spanish and English. Tourist groups can request a security escort if they have safety concerns. You can call them anytime by dialing 1500 from a Guatemalan phone number or (502) 2290-2810, and you can also reach them on WhatsApp at +502-5188-1819. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. Is it safe to travel to Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala on a cruise? To stay safe when visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, or other cruise destinations in Central America with crime warnings like Roatan, Honduras, and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, its a good idea to book shore excursions directly through your cruise line. Cruise passengers visiting Puerto Quetzal should make sure to follow the State Departments guidance for visiting Guatemala, which includes advice about using certified tour guides and trusted taxi services, and other ways to stay safe. Related: US shares 'reconsider travel' advisory for Caribbean cruise port The State Departments travel advisory recommends that if you decide to travel to Guatemala: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do not travel outside Guatemala City at night because the roads are poorly lit, and there is a high risk for serious traffic accidents. When visiting Lake Atitlan, use certified tour guides and travel between villages by chartered boat. The paths around the lake can be dangerous and hard to access. Emergency services cannot arrive quickly to help. Avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow are very strong, and there are not many lifeguards. Never leave drinks unattended in bars and restaurants and say no to invitations from strangers to private parties. Consider staying in hotels that have secure parking, doormen, and professional security staff. Use trusted taxi services like Taxis Amarillo Express, Taxi Seguro, or Uber, and only use INGUAT-approved taxis from the SAFE stand at the airport, hotel taxis, or vetted private drivers. Avoid public transport and white car taxis, as well as chicken buses. Do not hike trails or volcanoes without a qualified local guide, as robberies can happen and getting help can be difficult. Avoid using public ATMs, and do not show signs of wealth like wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Also, try not to use your phone in public. Are you taking a cruise or thinking about taking one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to have all your questions answered. Update 12/31, 4:16 p.m.: DAVIS COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) The day after a man was killed in an officer-involved incident in Davis County, officials released more information. Davis County officials responded to a domestic issue in West Point around 8:15 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 30. The person who died has been identified as Nathan Paul, 43, who officials say was possibly suffering a mental health episode on Monday night. Officials were called to the scene on Sunday night for similar concerns, and Paul was reportedly treated at an area hospital and released earlier in the day on Monday, according to officials. When officers responded on Monday night, Paul was reportedly armed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attempts to de-escalate the situation both verbally and with two non-lethal options were ineffective, the Davis County Sheriffs Office said in a press release Tuesday. As the situation developed, two Clinton officers discharged their weapons, striking the suspect. Paul was pronounced dead at the scene and the two officers who used their weapons were placed on administrative leave. Officials did not provide more details about what led up to the incident. The multi-agency Davis County Officer-Involved Critical Incident Protocol Team, led by the Davis County Attorneys Office, is investigating the incident. Officials said more details will not be released until the investigation is complete. The Clinton City Police Department extends our sincere condolences to all affected by this incident, and we support the Davis County Officer-Involved Critical Incident Protocol Team in their investigation, Clinton Police Chief Shawn Stoker said in the release. Original story: 1 killed in officer-involved incident in Davis County DAVIS COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) One person was killed during an officer-involved incident on Monday night, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a spokesperson with the Davis County Sheriffs Office, the incident happened around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 30 in West Point. Missing hiker near Millcreek Canyon identified as 38-year-old man As of Monday night, officials were not able to provide further details about the incident, but the spokesperson told ABC4.com that no officers were injured. The Davis County critical incident team is investigating the incident. Officials said there is no threat to the public and there is no shelter-in-place order in effect. More information is expected on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Matthew Drachman contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Las Cruces Police continue to investigate a shooting that happened Monday evening, Dec. 30 near a City park. Police say they responded to the shooting shortly before 6 p.m. Monday near Frenger Park, 1800 S. Espina Ave. The teenaged victim was originally taken to a Las Cruces hospital with unknown injuries. He was then transferred to an El Paso hospital and is now listed in critical but stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting remains under investigation and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to call the Las Cruces Police Department at (575) 526-0795. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Caesar, the No Drama Llama, was a popular attraction at the Democratic Party election night watch at Willamette Heritage Center in Salem. (Ron Cooper/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Editors note: The Capital Chronicle has launched a $10,000 end-of-year fundraising campaign to help us continue our first-class coverage next year. A lot is at stake, and theres a long legislative session in 2025. Were completely dependent on donor dollars, which are tax deductible. Please contribute to us if you can. From a historic election to record wildfires to drug recriminalization, 2024 was a big year for state government and political news in Oregon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a roundup of the most notable stories and trends the Capital Chronicle covered this year. A red wave nationally, but not in Oregon Republicans won the U.S. House, U.S. Senate and the presidency, but they did poorly in Oregon. U.S. Rep Lori Chavez-DeRemer, R-Oregon, lost her reelection bid to Democratic state Rep. Janelle Bynum, giving Democrats five of the states six U.S. House seats. Republicans also lost ground in the state Legislature: Democrats will hold 18 of 30 Senate seats and 36 of 60 House seats in 2025 after winning a Bend-based Senate district and Woodburn-based House district held by Republicans. And Democrats Tobias Read, Dan Rayfield and Elizabeth Steiner swept statewide races for secretary of state, attorney general and treasurer. Democrats including legislative leaders and Gov. Tina Kotek, who was not up for election this year, view the election results as proof that Oregonians support their policies. Koteks proposed budget for the next two years doubles down on spending for housing, homelessness and mental health. Portland Police Chief Bob Day speaks about the law enforcement role of Multnomah Countys new program for drug users on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt (center) and Bernard Gyebi-Foster, the CEO of Tuerk House, a county provider, also spoke. (Ben Botkin/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Oregon starts new approach to drug addiction Oregon lawmakers, alarmed by the states crisis of fentanyl addiction and fatal overdoses, made major changes to the states drug policy. The Legislature, through House Bill 4002, recriminalized low-level drug possession and allowed counties to start new programs that allow police to steer drug users into treatment instead of jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, 28 of Oregons 36 counties have started or plan to start deflection programs. From rural, conservative counties to blue Portland, the law allows local officials the flexibility to set up deflection programs as they see fit, including determining who is eligible. Local officials say they are starting small and urged the public to give them time for the programs to succeed. As the 2025 legislative session starts, counties will seek more funding, saying its needed for long-term results. More than 200 Oregonians have started the program. A wildfire outside Ukiah in Umatilla County becomes part of the Battle Mountain Complex of fires that have burned more than 183,000 acres and destroyed seven homes and 10 other structures. (Courtesy of Northwest Interagency Coordination Center) Wildfires burn millions of acres and a hole in the state budget The year in environmental reporting started and ended with the same question: Who will pay for the states longer, more intense, more expensive wildfires? For now, the answer is Oregon taxpayers. Meanwhile, getting insurance in the state is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive due to the threat of wildfires, which burned a record of nearly 2 million acres in 2024, mostly in central and eastern Oregon shrub and grasslands. The hotter, drier, windier conditions fueling fires are due in large part to climate change, an issue state officials will be able to tackle more aggressively in the next year by reinstating the Climate Protection Program after it was derailed by a lawsuit brought by gas companies. From left: Justin Brecht, a senior policy analyst for the Senate Republican Caucus, and Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend, talk about the readability rule that Republicans cited as a reason for skipping a floor session on Wednesday, May 3, 2023. The walkout ultimately lasted six weeks and led to Knopp and 10 colleagues losing their chance to run for reelection. (Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) One-third of Oregon Senate barred from running for reelection On the eve of the 2024 legislative session, the Oregon Supreme Court unanimously rejected arguments from Republican senators that they should be allowed to run for reelection despite missing nearly six weeks of floor sessions during a 2023 quorum-denying walkout. Voters frustrated with the increasing use of walkouts approved a constitutional amendment in 2022 to punish any lawmakers with 10 or more unexcused absences by barring them from reelection, and 10 Republican senators responded with the longest walkout in state history to protest bills on abortion, gender-affirming care and guns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six of the senators Brian Boquist of Dallas, Lynn Findley of Vale, Bill Hansell of Athena, Tim Knopp of Bend, Dennis Linthicum of Klamath Falls and Art Robinson of Cave Junction will leave the Legislature, at least temporarily, in January. Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham of The Dalles and Sens. Cedric Hayden of Fall Creek, Kim Thatcher of Keizer and Suzanne Weber of Tillamook have two years left on their terms before theyre barred from running for reelection. The Elliott State Forest near Coos Bay is the largest research forest in the U.S. (Courtesy of Tim Giraudier) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forest enters the carbon market It was a good year for trees in Oregons state forests, more of which will be spared from intensive logging. The Elliott State Research Forest is being entered into a carbon market under an agreement to reduce logging, which should allow the forest to capture and store more carbon dioxide, in exchange for millions of dollars in carbon credits. The Capital Chronicle published a deep dive into the growing interest in Oregon forests for carbon markets and some of the challenges and opportunities they present. Another win for forests and the animal species that depend on them was a long-awaited habitat conservation plan for Western state forests, which will reduce logging by 30% on average across 630,000 acres of state forests in the next 70 years. One tiny school district in the heart of the Clatsop State Forest, however, sued the state, alleging the plan would cut into its budget, which is funded entirely with timber revenue from logging on state forests. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek (second from right) visits the Pendleton Round-Up in September 2023 with her wife, Aimee Kotek Wilson (second from left). (Courtesy of the governors office) First ladys role leads to exodus of top staff In March, Koteks chief of staff abruptly left her office and two other top employees quit or took leave. Public records released by the governors office a month later confirmed that Koteks top staff were concerned about the growing role of Aimee Kotek Wilson, Koteks wife, in influencing policy and acting as a public face for the governor. Kotek announced plans to hire an aide for Kotek Wilson and create an official Office of the First Spouse, then abandoned those plans after weeks of pushback. The Oregon Ethics Commission deadlocked on whether to investigate ethics complaints against Kotek and later advised Kotek that nothing in state law prohibits Kotek Wilson from acting as a volunteer, as long as she doesnt use that role for personal financial gain. Students are taught how to sound out letters during a phonics lesson at Ferguson Elementary School in Klamath Falls on April 7, 2023. (Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Record education funding, but schools still struggle It was a record funding year for Oregons 197 public school districts, where students are still trying to catch up in core subjects since the COVID pandemic. Schools got to work implementing new reading and writing programs to boost literacy rates among elementary students, while cell phones were phased out in many schools and the Oregon Department of Education directed districts to do something to get them away from students during class. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek wants another year of record education funding for 2026-2028, including money to cover more than half-a-billion dollars in increased contributions required from schools to the states public pension program, which is struggling with insolvency in the face of historic policy challenges and underperforming investments in recent years. Gov. Tina Kotek is joined by mix of lawmakers and advocates for the signing of a campaign finance bill on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Courtesy of the governors office) No more $1 million checks: Lawmakers pass campaign finance limits Former House Speaker Dan Rayfield often referred to his efforts to pass campaign contribution limits as tilting at windmills but that quixotic quest succeeded, to widespread surprise, this year. The threat of a ballot measure spurred a rush of negotiations among labor unions, the business lobby, good government groups and lawmakers during the five-week legislative session. The final deal,which was passed on wide bipartisan margins and signed by Kotek, takes effect on Jan. 1, 2027. Individuals and corporations will be limited to giving a candidate no more than $3,300 per election, or $6,600 for a candidate who appears in both the primary and general elections while small political committees that accept up to $250 per year from individuals will be able to give up to $10 per donor per election to statewide candidates and $5 per donor per election for other candidates. Unions and other membership organizations will be allowed to give $26,400 per election to a statewide candidate and $13,200 per election to non-statewide candidates. But that didnt stop the flow of money this year, with Oregons richest man offering gifts for Republicans. While lawmakers debated campaign finance limits, Nike cofounder Phil Knight wrote a $2 million check to a political action committee that tries to elect Republicans to the statehouse. Rain Parrish, a 22-year-old from Portland, hugs her pink bunny Usagi. Parrish, who spent nearly 16 years in Oregons foster care system, shared her experiences in a court hearing on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024 when the Oregon Department of Human Services settled a class-action lawsuit. (Ben Botkin/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon Department of Human Services settles class-action lawsuit The Oregon Department of Human Services settled a five-year-old class-action lawsuit, promising to make reforms to its system that cares for 4,500 children in the states foster care system. The 2019 lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Eugene, alleged the department, agency director Fariborz Pakseresht and the child welfare system failed foster children as they bounced among foster homes, were put up in hotels to home and failed to receive appropriate services. The case, which started the accounts of 10 foster children, gained class-action status in 2022. Under the agreement, the state agency will work on improvements for years with an outside expert and two groups that represented the children in court: Disability Rights Oregon and A Better Childhood, a national nonprofit advocacy group. Jacqueline Orr talks in her Albany home about her experience while incarcerated at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, Oregons only womens prison. Orr received a $1.5 million settlement after an injury. (Ben Botkin/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Oregon Department of Corrections medical system faces problems The Oregon Department of Corrections faced a cloud of scrutiny in 2024 for its care of inmates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, an outside accrediting organization found Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville, Oregons only womens prison, had a backlog of hundreds of medical appointments and months to wait for imaging work. The agency said it would make improvements to its care. But questions persist for the agency that is responsible for 12,000 inmates in a dozen facilities across the state. Two top medical officials in the agency went on administrative leave in December amid an investigation, and officials said an outside expert would investigate management of the agencys health care system. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX AUSTIN (KXAN) The Austin Police Departments now full-time No Refusal initiative has been operational since October, and Detective Kristopher Morrison said APD initiatives it about 100 times a month. At its core, the No Refusal initiative requires drivers to provide investigators with a breath or blood sample if they get pulled over for DWI even if they try to refuse. The department does this by staffing a DWI specialist at the jail every night who can issue a search warrant for these drivers that forces them to submit a test sample. By obtaining a search warrant and getting blood evidence on a DWI investigation, it just confirms what officers on scene saw and adds more evidence to the case, said Detective Kristopher Morrison. This helps with the eventual prosecution of a DWI suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before October, this wouldnt take place every night, but instead, only on weekends, during holidays or major events, or full-time trial periods. The DWI specialist that issues the warrants is grant-funded. Morrison said since the program launched full-time, APD has made about 250 DWI arrests monthly, and of those 250, about 100 people each month refuse to take a blood or breath test. Real-life consequences of drinking and driving Lindsay Smith, left, is serving an 18-year prison sentence for killing Jeffrey Richardson, right, as she drove drunk. Allan Richardson, the father of Jeffrey Richardson, a Poteet Police Officer hit and killed by a drunk driver near the Domain in 2022, is happy to see any effort to curb drinking and driving. Its just simple, dont drink and drive, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeffrey, 35, a father of five, was working off-duty directing traffic at a construction site, when Lindsay Smith, who was 26 at the time, was drunk as she drove her car out of the Domain and hit Jeffrey near Mopac. This year, a jury sentenced her to 18 years in prison. Jurors had the option to give her probation but did not. Smith pleaded guilty to the charge the day of her trial. All testimony that took place was to determine what her sentence would be. You have no idea what devastation you leave behind, Richardson said. Jeff loved serving others, he died serving others and protecting others. He had a whole life ahead of him. DWI penalties Below is the punishment breakdown for DWI offenses in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. This does not include instances where someone was killed or seriously injured as a result of someone else driving drunk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First Offense: Up to a $2,000 fine, up to 180 days in jail, loss of drivers license for up to a year Second Offense: Up to a $4,000 fine, one month to one year in jail, loss of drivers license for up to two years Third Offense: $10,000 fine, 2-10 years in prison, loss of drivers license for up to two years Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. WORCESTER, Mass. (WWLP) A 14-year-old boy has been arrested in Worcester for allegedly shooting a man. Gone Girl kidnapper Matthew Muller charged in 2009 home invasions The incident took place on December 23, where a 25-year-old was injured on Mt. Vernon Street, according to NBC Boston. Since then, police have not provided information on the condition of the victim. Police say he was arrested over the weekend on charges including armed assault to murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 14-year-old will be tried in juvenile court. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. The idea that the USSR boasted a booming economy under Brezhnev and that there were no empty shelves in stores can be easily refuted by Soviet films, such as 100 Grams for Bravery and Moscow Doesn't Believe in Tears. ADVERTISIMENT According to blogger Maxim Mirovich, these movies clearly illustrate the shortage of goods in the Soviet Union. He spoke about this in an interview with OBOZREVATEL. "I recommend watching the movie 100 Grams for Bravery, as well as the store scenes from the movie Moscow Doesn't Believe in Tears, when women run to a cart with cheap boiled sausage rolled out of the back room. In these films, made in the mid-1970s, we see the same miserable Soviet grocery stores, lined with rows of canned foods as if the whole country is going on a hike to praise communism," the blogger noted. According to Mirovich, the country's store abundance is a testament to the large number of private firms and small businesses that produce competitive products, to the technology of high-quality cultivation and storage of vegetables and fruits, and to the developed logistics that allows for the rapid delivery of perishable products. "None of this existed in the USSR in the 50s, 70s, or 80s. Instead, there was sour liquid sour cream (which was diluted at all stages), vegetable depots with rotten cabbage (which engineers were sent to sort through), good meat being sold only to elites, and so on. Speaking of the USSR's alleged prosperity, it never happened, it's just another myth of communism fans," the blogger emphasized. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A 15-year-old is missing from West Memphis, Arkansas, according to police. Derreon Lee, 15, is described as a 411, 85-pound teenager with black hair and brown eyes. The West Memphis Police Department says Lee was last seen on Monday, December 30 in West Memphis. See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. If you have seen or know the whereabouts of Derreon Lee, you are urged to call the West Memphis Police Department at 870-735-1210 or the Crittenden County CrimeStoppers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) 2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. We remember and honor those 168 who lost their lives on April 19, 1995, when a bomb went off in front of the Murrah building in downtown Oklahoma City. 168 Days to remember those lost in the OKC bombing: Linda Louise Florence. Image courtesy Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. We want to remember Linda Louise Florence, while honoring those who survived and thanking those changed forever. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) Today is Tuesday, Dec. 31. Here are this mornings top stories with KELOLAND On the Go. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KELOLAND This Morning The Sioux Falls Police say there are still no arrests in connection with the citys 16th homicide of the year. Last Thursday, police say 38-year-old Michael McDaniel was shot and killed in an apartment in eastern Sioux Falls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrest yet in most recent Sioux Falls homicide One building is destroyed after a fire in downtown Brookings. Flames had destroyed most of a downtown Brookings shop and apartments surrounding it when first responders arrived. Flames destroy downtown Brookings building Flags in South Dakota are flying at half staff until January 28th in honor of President Jimmy Carter who passed away Sunday. Carter spent time in South Dakota on a few occasions first during his campaign then later for Habitat for Humanity. Carters South Dakota visits for Habitat for Humanity remembered For the latest top stories and breaking news, download our news app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. A group of people from Cuba arrived in a migrant boat in Key West late Sunday, police said. Around 9:30 p.m., Key West police arrived at the entrance of Key West International Airport on South Roosevelt Boulevard to respond to a report of a migrant landing and found six people who had Cuban identification cards and passports, according to an incident report provided by the department. One of the migrants ran away, but was caught by an officer, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, Key West police said encountered five women and 11 men. The Border Patrol, who took the migrants into custody, said in a statement that a total of 18 people were caught. Two of the people were taken to Lower Keys Medical Center to be treated for dehydration. A migrant boat is moored to a seawall in Key West. The Border Patrol said a group of 18 people from Cuba arrived on the homemade vessel Sunday night, Dec. 29, 2024. The boat that the people arrived on was secured by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, according to police. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A Bennettsville man remains in jail in Horry County after admitting to police that he shot another person in the face at a home near Aynor, according to an arrest warrant. Horry County police charged Austin Alan Collins, 18, with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and obstruction of justice after the incident, which happened late Sunday night at a home on Jordanville Road. He is being held on a $60,000 bond at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center. Horry County police were called to Conway Medical Center at about 12:30 a.m. Monday after the hospital staff called 911 about a gunshot victim who had been brought to the hospital about two hours earlier by two other males. A police report said hospital workers told officers they didnt report the shooting earlier because of a miscommunication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No information about the condition of the victim was immediately available. Officers talked to Collins at the hospital, according to the police report, but he could not say where the victim was shot except that it was in Aynor. However, he later confessed to the shooting, according to the arrest warrant. An officer also talked to the third person at the hospital, who said the shooting happened while all three were at a home on Jordanville Road, the report said. He told officers that he was playing a video game in the living room while the victim was in a bedroom and Collins was in the bathroom connected to the bedroom. He said he heard a single gunshot and saw the victim come out with blood on his face, the report said. The three then immediately got into the witnesses truck and drove to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The witness also told officers that the gun used in the shooting belonged to Collins. * * * Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Dec. 30Two Dayton men will spend up to a dozen years in prison after an attempted robbery accomplice was killed during a shooting that injured four people. Lawrence Michael Davis and Riyadh Nasier Pate were each sentenced Monday by Montgomery County Common Pleas Judge Angelina Jackson to eight to 12 years in prison. They pleaded guilty Dec. 12 to a lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter plus two counts of felonious assault after their trial in September ended in a hung jury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson acquitted the pair of two counts of murder and two counts of felonious assault after defense attorneys moved for a judgment of acquittal at the close of the state's case. Jackson found the evidence "insufficient as a matter of law to sustain a conviction" on those counts, according to the dismissal. As part of their pleas, two counts of aggravated burglary plus weapons charges were dismissed against the pair, court records show. The Dayton Police Department responded to a shooting June 4, 2023, at an apartment in the 300 block of Superior Avenue. Kevin Eugene Jones II, 38, of Dayton was identified by the Montgomery County Coroner's Office as the man pronounced dead in the hallway outside the apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dayton police Maj. Brian Johns said previously that Jones was the driver of a Chevrolet Tahoe that arrived at the apartment with Davis, Pate and a fourth man who remains unidentified. Jones and Pate went inside the apartment first to meet with a man and woman inside, and then a minutes later Davis arrived along with the unidentified person, who ran in wearing a mask and started shooting at the couple, according to an affidavit filed in Dayton Municipal Court. "At this same time, Jones and Pate pull out guns and start shooting at (the apartment residents)," an affidavit read. "While Jones, Pate and the other male wearing the mask are fleeing the apartment, all three are shot." The man and woman in the apartment also were shot and were taken to Miami Valley Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video from outside the apartment building showed Davis, Pate and the unknown man leave out the back door and get into a white SUV that fled the scene, according to court records. Dayton police tried to stop the SUV and chased it for approximately two minutes until it stopped outside Miami Valley Hospital. Of the four people who were shot and wounded, two suffered serious injuries, including the woman, Johns said. Following the shooting, Johns said police seized a large amount of drugs, mainly marijuana and marijuana-type products, from the apartment. Although Davis and Pate did not shoot Jones, under Ohio law defendants can be charged for any death that occurs during an aggravated burglary, including the death of an accomplice, according to the prosecutor's office. RAYNHAM, Mass. (WWLP) Raynham police and fire crews responded to a car crash late Monday night, where two out of three of the vehicles occupants died from their injuries. Raynham Police Chief David LaPlante and Fire Chief Bryan LaCivita said that at about 9:25 p.m. on Monday, a 911 call was made regarding a car crashing into a tree on East Britannia Street near Thrasher Street. Emergency crews found a 2017 Hyundai Elantra leaning against a tree, and further investigation determined that the vehicle went airborne before crashing. Teen arrested after crashing stolen vehicle attempting to evading police in Holyoke Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Averi Costa-Burton, 26, of Fall River was the driver and was ejected from the vehicle. The passengers, Dorryn Robinson, 28, of New Bedford, and a 25-year-old man from Fall River remained in the vehicle. Robinson was found dead by emergency crews upon arrival. Costa-Burton died after being brought to Morton Hospital. The 25-year-old man from Fall River was taken to Rhode Island Hospital by helicopter, where he was treated for life-threatening injuries. The Raynham Police Accident Reconstruction team and the Massachusetts State Police Detectives Unit are currently investigating the cause of the crash. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. LOS ANGELES (KTLA) A manhunt is underway for a shoplifting suspect who allegedly shot two security guards Monday evening inside a shopping mall in downtown Los Angeles. Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department responded to reports of the shooting in the 700 block of South Figueroa Street, near the intersection of 7th Street, just before 9 p.m., authorities confirmed to KTLA. Early unconfirmed reports suggested that the manager of the Target store in the FigAt7th shopping mall called police about the gunman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police officials told KTLA that when responding officers arrived at the scene, they located two men suffering from gunshot wounds and requested medical personnel from the Los Angeles Fire Department. L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KTLA) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KTLA) L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KTLA) Both victims, confirmed by police Tuesday morning to be security guards, were rushed to nearby hospitals. One of them was in critical condition while the other was in fair condition. Investigators believe the security guards were trying to stop a shoplifting suspect from stealing merchandise when they were shot. Police updated the suspect description Tuesday morning saying the shooter was believed to be a male between 20 and 30 years old. The suspect was initially said to be wearing a black jacket and gray pants with a gray backpack and scarf and fled in an unknown direction on Figueroa Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beloved Creole-style eatery in Southern California repeatedly hit by thieves In aerial footage of the scene captured by Sky5, a large police presence could be seen outside the mall as onlookers milled about and yellow tape cordoned off the entrance to the mall on the sidewalk. Just blocks away, at 7th Street and Maple Avenue, police responded to another shooting at around 9:30 p.m. that left two other people hospitalized. It is unclear if the second shooting incident was related. In a statement to KTLA, a representative from FigAt7th stated that the mall was deeply troubled by the incident that occurred Monday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are working closely with the Los Angeles Police Department and are grateful for their swift action and response, the spokesperson said. The spokesperson also confirmed that the incident involved guards from Target, not FigAt7th or Brookfield employees. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Vacations in Europe don't have to be expensive. You can see the beauty of ancient cities and enjoy the interesting history and rich culture even on a budget, and one of the European capitals proves it in full. ADVERTISIMENT According to @emsbudgettravel, a blogger who shares ideas for budget tourism, one of the most underrated capitals in Europe is Sarajevo, the main city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In her opinion, it offers a combination of stunning architecture, rich culture, and fascinating history. Moreover, she called Sarajevo one of the cheapest destinations she has ever traveled to - she spent less than $130 on everything, including the flight from the UK, accommodation, and meals. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the stunning Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo is where East meets West. The city boasts Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences that are evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. ADVERTISIMENT The city's old town is a maze of cobblestone streets where ancient mosques stand alongside Catholic and Orthodox churches. There are also endless historical sites here, as Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo in 1914, and the city survived a brutal siege during the Bosnian War. The Sarajevo Tunnels Museum will tell you all about the Bosnian War. And the historic Latin Bridge marks the site of Franz Ferdinand's assassination with a memorial and museum dedicated to this pivotal moment in history that launched the First World War. The blogger described modern Sarajevo as a beautiful and safe city with friendly locals. She also recommended a day trip to Mostar, a small city two hours away from the capital. She called the visit the highlight of the trip. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Two people were killed and one person was critically injured in a crash in Raynham on Monday night after the car they were riding in went airborne and struck a tree, authorities announced Tuesday. Officers responding to a call for a single-car crash on East Britannia Street near Thrasher Street just before 9:30 a.m. found a 2017 Hyundai Elantra leaning up against a tree, according to the Raynham Police Department. A preliminary investigation reveals the vehicle went airborne before hitting the tree, the department said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver, 26-year-old Averi Costa-Burton, of Fall River, was ejected in the crash. He was rushed to Morton Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Dorryn Robinson, 28, of New Bedford, and an unnamed 25-year-old man from Fall River, were found in the wreckage of the crash. Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene and the man was flown to Rhode Island Hospital with life-threatening injuries. There were no additional details immediately available. Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Bristol District Attorneys Office are assisting Raynham police with an investigation into the cause of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Two men from Portland, Oregon, were found dead in a Washington forest after they embarked on a search for Sasquatch, according to authorities. The Skamania County Sheriffs Office in Stevenson, Washington, detailed a search and rescue operation in a Dec. 28 Facebook post that ultimately confirmed the deaths of a 59-year-old man and 37-year-old man. On Dec. 25, the Skamania County Communications Center received a report that two men went missing after going on search for Sasquatch, the mythical, hairy creature also known as Bigfoot. A family member reported the two individuals missing after they did not return home as expected on Dec. 24, per authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office said that its search and rescue coordinator located the mens car near Willard, Washington, and more than 60 volunteer search and rescue personnel joined canine, drone and ground search teams to help locate the two men. The United States Coast Guard also assisted. Authorities said in the Dec. 28 Facebook post that after three days of searching, the two men were found deceased in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington. Both deaths appear to be due to exposure, based on weather conditions and ill-preparedness, the sheriffs office said. Authorities expressed their condolences and thanked the volunteers for their efforts, noting that they searched through freezing temperatures, snow, high water levels, heavy rain, downfall, and heavily wooded terrain. This article was originally published on TODAY.com SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) As 2024 wraps up we are taking a look at some crime stories across the Concho Valley that made headlines. On January 1st, 2024, 23-year-old Jakob Jones was shot and killed by Ryan Joaquion Renfroe in an alley next to a San Angelo downtown bar. The two had a prior altercation after a road rage incident and sent messages to one another on Facebook Messenger to settle their dispute. The two met in the alley early on New Years Day when Renfroe pulled a gun out on Jones and shot him. A Tom Green County jury found Renfroe guilty of murder and sentenced him in November to life in prison. In April, the murder trial began for one of five people charged in the death of a U.S. Marine stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base. 28-year-old U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Bryce Rudisell died from stab wounds after being injured in October 2022. A jury found 41-year-old Ray Vera guilty of murder and issued him a life sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also in April, the manhunt for a murder suspect ended in Irion County. 26-year-old James Myrick of New Mexico was wanted for the murder of a 74-year-old man in Odessa. The hunt began April 15th after the Ector County Sheriffs Office responded to a murder scene in west Odessa. Texas DPS troopers located Myrick in Mertzon on April 16th, and after an officer-involved shooting occurred, Myrick was declared dead. In May, Tom Green County Sheriffs Deputies arrested a 33-year-old San Angelo man who worked as an assistant band director at Wall ISD for online solicitation of a minor. An investigation began after several Wall High School students received sexually explicit messages and pictures from someone through TikTok and a texting app. The next day, Joshua Carroll was released on a 45-thousand dollar bond and then rebooked into the Tom Green County Jail. In December, a federal judge sentenced Carroll to 30 years in prison for the production of child pornography. In July, San Angelo police and Tom Green County Sheriffs deputies responded to a gunshot victim on Highway 87. Witnesses told authorities that two people ran into a wooded area. A day later, the manhunt ended when police took 36-year-old Gloria Jaramillo and 37-year-old Michael Pacheco into custody. Pacheco is charged with murder in New Mexico and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. His trial is set for next year. After pleading guilty to a federal charge, in August Mina Abbott was sentenced to 42 months in jail for unauthorized transactions with an access device. The case started in 2023 after the Tom Green County Sheriffs Office investigated allegations that Abbott stole over 100-thousand dollars from the wall co-op country store. Documents revealed she stole over 2 million from the store. She worked at the store for 25 years, and the embezzlement affected over 400 co-op members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, a 37-year-old San Angelo man was found guilty of murder. A jury convicted Christopher Wise for the murder of 35-year-old Christie Feland in November 2022. Wise told police he found Felands body in a bathtub filled with water, and an autopsy report indicated she died of blunt force trauma. A judge sentenced him to life in prison. In December, a jury found Francisco Morales from Abilene guilty of the murder of 28-year-old Jacob Hernandez in San Angelo. Morales shot and killed Hernandez in May 2021. Morales was 17 at the time, and police spent three weeks searching for him before arresting him in Abilene. He was originally charged with capital murder. He agreed to a plea deal with a sentence of life in prison on his 21st birthday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. As 2024 nears its end, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and police Superintendent Larry Snelling on Tuesday again highlighted citywide drops in several violent crime categories, asserting that the citys public safety efforts will remain steadfast in the coming year. Johnson credited an oft-mentioned whole of government approach for the reductions, and noted that the Police Department cant bear all responsibility for the citys crime patterns. This city, of course, that we all love there are still too many people who are being harmed by gun violence, Johnson told reporters at CPD headquarters. The progress, though, that we have made by building stronger and safer communities this year certainly reflects a coordinated effort and a coordinated plan that has been driven by people and our place-based approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson said he was thankful for those who have made it happen. I am grateful for the superintendent, his entire team, his leadership and the tireless efforts of the Chicago Police Department, the rank-and-file officers who are on the front lines, who are working to solve crimes and to deliver justice, Johnson said. With 572 homicides recorded as of Dec. 27, according to city data, 2024 was the third consecutive year that Chicago recorded fewer homicides than the previous year. In 2023, the city ended the year with 620 killings, records show. Tuesday, Johnson incorrectly said 2024s totals were the lowest in a decade. Snelling told reporters that, in addition to the decline in homicides, the city also recorded a 7% drop in total shooting incidents and a 4% decline in the number of overall shooting victims. CPDs bureau of detectives cleared 322 murder cases in 2024, leading to a clearance rate of 56%, Snelling said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant go into a new year with some, simply, old ideas. We have to have new ideas, Snelling said Tuesday. We have to have a focus on what it is that were trying to reduce. And if were trying to reduce violent crime, the most important thing here is to get to the bottom of it, resolve it, hold those accountable who are committing those violent acts, break down crime patterns, and when we can do that we start to see a reduction in crimes. Robberies and motor vehicle thefts also fell by 17% and 25%, respectively, CPD data show. Chicago cops again recovered more than 12,000 guns and made more than 32,000 arrests during the year. Both the mayor and superintendent also highlighted CPDs efforts to offer resources and support to crime victims and their families. Snelling also repeatedly thanked members of the public for their willingness to engage with the department in an effort to stem crime. The support that weve seen by everyday citizens who just want to see safety in their communities, safety across the city, Snelling said. They get nothing for doing that and they have stepped up to make sure that theyve shown support. Weve gotten more calls, more cooperation from communities, and thats a result of the work thats being done by the leadership team in creating that trust with communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at a community meeting on the Northwest Side in early December, Snelling laid out six objectives for the Police Department in 2025. They include ensuring officers have strong foundations in constitutional and impartial policing; making progress in the long-awaited workforce allocation study; building and fostering community partnerships; encouraging officer wellness; providing resources and support to crime victims; and to making sure CPD officers are clear on the departments policy relating to associations with criminal or biased organizations. Is it my imagination, or are there fewer year in review photo essays this year? In years past, newspaper editors loved these features because you could prepare them in advance and then run them in December while practically the whole newsroom was out on vacation. But the few that made it into print this year conveyed little enthusiasm. Competitive cheer is popular yet dangerous, said The New York Times. It was talking about cheerleading but sounded uncannily like my Depression-scarred grandmother warning that too much laughter leads to tears. (She really used to say that.) War seemed to be everywhere, said The Washington Post. Even inside the Posts own newsroom! These photographs, said Time, allow us to not only prepare for what is to come, but to imagine something better. Happy New Year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe Im projecting. I really didnt care for 2024. It was the year when Donald Trump recaptured the presidency, when Zionist became a term of abuse, and when my favorite local seafood restaurant closed its doors after 79 years in business. The only good thing that happened was the reopening of Notre Dame in Paris, but that occurred too late for inclusion in the year-end photo essays. So did the passing of a genuinely good man, Jimmy Carter. My own life, I should emphasize, went quite well in 2024, with no significant health problems, a happy family life, a satisfying work life, and more financial stability than Ive been able to count on during the past decade. (Mamas, dont let your babies grow up to be journalists.) Things did not, however, go well in the wider world. I urged the Democrats to win back the working class, and they didnt. This magazine, a long-standing supporter of Israel, urged Biden to halt the shipment of offensive weapons to Israel, and he didntnot even after the election. Vladimir Putin, on his second try, killed the inspirational dissident Alexei Navalny, and suffered no consequences. Antisemitism surged against both Jews and Arabs (who are Semites too). Brian Thompson, who was the chief executive of United Healthcare, but was also a human being with two teenage children, got shot to death, and his alleged killer was treated like a folk hero. There were 501 mass shootings this year, 39 of them at schools. Who wants to review all that? Not me. Hollywood gave up on making good movies, with the result that amazingly few domestic films found their way onto critics 10 best lists. The few that did were often stinkers like A Real Pain. A lot of people fussed over Wicked, but I have no appetite at the moment for a film that tells me a villain is really just a wounded victim. Did the other kids in Pretoria make fun of Elon Musk? I dont give a crap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Los Angeles Times announced that its reporters work will henceforth be evaluated, publicly, by robots. The New York Times bid farewell to its best columnist, Paul Krugman. Civilian casualties increased 72 percent worldwide, the steepest rise in a decade, thanks to Israeli slaughter in Gaza and Russian slaughter in Ukraine. Climate change continued to lay waste to the planet, with 2024 dethroning 2023 as the hottest year on record. So many in Americas leadership class were too cowardly to endorse Kamala Harris that I had to update my initial tally. Alice Munro died, and was revealed to have been a pretty lousy human being. But now youve got me doing it. I dont want to remember 2024. I want it to be over. Theres a decent chance 2025 will be worse, but we have nothing to gain by clinging to its predecessor. Let midnight come, then lets get on with it. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) After several years of drought, Northwest Iowa was hit with a deluge in June. Torrential rain caused rivers to swell and flooding affected dozens of communities from Spencer to Sioux City. In almost every community impacted, the rivers crested several feet above records from the flood of 19-93. In fact, we had 16 gauges that recorded historic levels, Iowa Governor Gov. Kim Reynolds said. More than 19 hundred homes were impacted by the flooding, which left thousands of Iowans in need of shelter. Some of the hardest hit towns were Rock Rapids, Rock Valley, Spencer, and Hawarden. But the big Sioux river didnt just impact Iowa communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SportsZone 2024 Year in Review Part 4 Its just a complete gutted with valleys and holes and deep holes. The road is gone. There is no road. Its just an open pit, said North Sioux City Fire Chief Bill Pappas. The residents of McCook Lake literally had to run for their lives as a record-breaking amount of water flowed into the lake and then spilled over. The rushing water caused the railroad bridge over the Big Sioux to collapse. Dozens of residents lost everything. They felt abandoned by city and state leaders. We are on day 4 and now we have help arriving, Renae Hansen, with the McCook Lake Izaak Walton League said. Everybodys going through this hard time. Nobodys sleeping. Nobody has air condition. Food! Im a mom! I want to feed the people. Thats why I started rallying. So here we are! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was time to begin the long road to recovery once the flood waters receded. But Siouxlanders showed up to help out their neighbors. You just cant imagine how much its meant to us and its just a hope, we would have to walk away if we didnt have the help, Riverside Resident Jeanne Derby said. I cant thank enough people, people showed up that I didnt even know to help tear out my walls. And its just been amazing, theyre god-sent. Weve had so much support from the state level, from the federal level, red cross, all of it, and we just worked really, really hard together, Brittany Spieker with the Clay County, Iowa Housing team said. We keep hearing that were way, were way further along in the disaster The help didnt stop with the clean-up efforts, as siouxlanders helped raise money for flood victims. That included the people behind Sioux Citys biggest summer event: Saturday in the park! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2024 Year in Review: March, April May I think it was important to do that, and meaningful for the folks that participated, and meaningful for us to do something like that as well, Saturday in the Park co-founder David Bernstein said. To take what we were doing as a fun day in the park and turn it into something that provides maybe a little bit of good. Saturday in the Park raised $4,500 for flood victims. Festival organizers matched the amount, for a total of nearly $10,000 that went to local organizations and charities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. VERNAL, Utah (ABC4) A team of Utah scientists and cavers have recovered a nearly complete skeleton of a 26,000-year-old red fox deep in a cave in Utahs Uinta Mountains. It is the most complete skeleton of an Ice Age mammal found in the region. The team of scientists, formed from the Utah Division of State Parks and the USDA Forest Service Ashley National Forest, along with a group of local cavers, recovered the skeleton deep in Uinta Mountains Whiterocks Cave. A radiocarbon age on one of the bones from several years ago indicated that the fox skeleton is approximately 26,000 years old, dating from just before the last glacial maximum during the Ice Ages, a press release from the Utah Division of State Parks states. This means that the skeleton had already been lying in the cave for more than 10,000 years when humans first started farming founder crops and for more than 20,000 years when the Giza pyramids were built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Utah city is among Americas top 5 safest small towns: report Roxy, the red fox skeleton, was lit up and had scale markers placed before she was photographed. Nothing was touched until this process was finished. (Courtesy of John Foster, Utah State Parks) Formations inside the cave. (Courtesy of John Foster, Utah State Parks) Tom Howells (Utah Field House of Natural History) and David Herron (US Forest Service) admiring the cave formations on the trip back to the fox skeleton. (Courtesy of John Foster, Utah State Parks) On the way up to the cave, the Utah Field House of Natural Historys (L to R) Ida Dirkes, Tyson Ferriera, and John Foster stop for a break. (Courtesy of John Foster, Utah State Parks) Tyson Ferriera of the Utah Field House of Natural History hiking up to the cave with tubes used to pack the bones for the trip out. (Courtesy of John Foster, Utah State Parks) The skeleton, which has since been named Roxy, was found nearly a half-mile deep into what experts called a less accessible part of the caves back, leading experts to wonder how the fox got so deep in complete darkness. As of now, no one on the team of scientists is sure how or why it happened, and they even have differing opinions on the matter. Roxy was found lying on its left side, partially articulated and very well preserved. The find is particularly amazing, experts said, given its setting in a wet cave with formations like cave bacon sheetlike deposits of calcite or other carbonate minerals, formed where water flows down the walls or along the floors of a cave throughout the environment. It was a gorgeous specimen, said John Foster, the projects lead organizer from the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum. Almost the entire animal lying where it had been for so long, nearly every bone intact and well preserved. We dont often see specimens like that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Red foxes are the most widely distributed terrestrial carnivores in the world, according to Utah State Parks. They reportedly showed up in North America, coming from Eurasia, between 300,000 and 130,000 years ago. For much of their history, they have been found mostly in western and northern parts of the continent. This specimen is one of the oldest directly dated records of the red fox species, said Ice Age mammal expert Greg McDonald, a retired National Park Service paleontologist. The first in Utah, but among the oldest in North America. The cave in which Roxy was found is located at about 8,600 feet elevation. The team was able to extract the bones from the area using specially made plastic tubes for packing and getting them out undamaged. The spot was difficult to access, experts said, meaning team members had to crawl and climb through mud to get Roxy out. The expedition took the team of nine around 16 hours to complete. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once scientists are done testing, cleaning, and stabilizing the skeleton, some of Roxys bones will be displayed at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in Vernal. The nearly complete skeleton is one of the most significant finds of an Ice Age animal in the region. Roxy has finally seen the light of day again after 26,000 years in total darkness, Foster said. We look forward to sharing her with visitors soon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The leaders of three European countries as well as Pope Francis received New Year telegrams from Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin said on Dec. 30. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were among those "warmly congratulated on Christmas and the upcoming New Year 2025," Moscow said. While most European countries remain on frosty terms with Russia since the launch of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a handful have retained varying degrees of positive diplomatic relations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orban has maintained close ties with Moscow despite Russias invasion of Ukraine, frequently criticizing EU sanctions on Russia and blocking military aid to Kyiv. Serbia has maintained friendly relations with Moscow, and is heavily reliant on Russian gas, consuming around 2.5 billion cubic meters of gas annually, of which Russian state-owned energy giant Gazprom provides around 2 billion. Erdogan has aimed to maintain positive relations with both Russia and Ukraine. Turkey has facilitated the flow of Russian oil to the European Union since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, enabling the Kremlin to circumvent the blocs sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, Erdogan has publicly supported Ukrainian sovereignty, and his administration has given significant aid to Ukraine since the start of Russias full-scale invasion. While not on the official list, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian state media that Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico had also received a message from Putin. Under Fico's leadership, Slovakia took a sharp foreign policy turn, halting military supplies to Ukraine from the Slovak Armed Forces' stocks and adopting more Russian-friendly rhetoric. Fico also recently announced he had accepted the Kremlin's invitation to attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow next May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pope has earned a controversial reputation in Ukraine with remarks that relativized the responsibility of Russias war, encouraging Ukrainians to have the "courage" to negotiate for peace. During Sunday prayer on Dec. 15, Pope Francis referred to Russia and Ukraine as "brothers," while reiterating calls for peace in Russias war against Ukraine. "They are brothers, cousins. Let them come to an understanding. War is always a defeat. Peace to the whole world," the pope said during a visit to the French island of Corsica. As a precursor to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin repeatedly framed its invasion as an effort to reunite the two nations as "one people," relying on numerous false historical claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the lead-up to the invasion, Russian President Vladimir Putin invoked biblical imagery, describing the two countries as a "brotherhood" and comparing their relationship to that of Cain and Abel. Read also: Ukrainian sea drone downs Russian helicopter with anti-air missile in first strike of its kind Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. On the night of Tuesday, December 31, the occupied Crimea was restless again. Strong explosions were heard in Sevastopol, and the local so-called authorities announced a combined attack. ADVERTISIMENT Thus, the "governor" of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, wrote about the alleged destruction of several aircraft-type UAVs and marine drones by Russian air defense. He called on local residents to "stay calm and stay in safe places." "The loud sounds that were just heard in the city are our military repelling an attempted attack by surface drones. All services are on high alert," Razvozhayev wrote at night. In the morning, the governor of Sevastopol said that Russian air defense "successfully repelled the night attack of the Ukranians." "According to preliminary information, 4 air targets over the sea and 2 UAVs near the shore were shot down," Razvozhayev wrote, without mentioning that, according to the DIU, maritime drones destroyed one military helicopter for the first time in history and damaged another. ADVERTISIMENT Instead, he once again began to convince Sevastopol residents "not to film or post the work of air defense," and not to launch fireworks: they, he said, interfere with the occupiers by "creating false targets." Thus, Russians in Crimea equate fireworks with "working for the enemy." Meanwhile, the Crimean Wind Telegram channel reported that Russian air defense was operating in the Kachi area. Also, a Russian Pantsir-S1 multiple rocket launcher was fired from somewhere near Kamyshovoye Highway in Sevastopol. "The most powerful explosion was at 00:45, the blast wave shook windows and triggered car alarms," the subscribers report. There were also explosions in the area of Kozacha Bay," the message says. There was information that a Russian Tor air defense system could have been destroyed in the area of Kozacha Bay. As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Ukrainian Navy said that the occupiers' naval logistics to supply the Russian military group in Ukrainian Crimea have been virtually destroyed. Even the eastern coast of the Azov Sea and the Krasnodar Territory of the Russian Federation are no longer in the security zone for the Russians. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! A 3-year-old girl from South Padre Island, Texas, missing since early July has been found alive and with her mom in an alleged custody dispute, according to her family and local news reports. A spokesperson for the family of Rilee Crouch said that she was located with her mother, Lillian Crouch, in Panama, ValleyCentral and ABC affiliate KRGV reported on Sunday, Dec. 29. According to ValleyCentral, Rilee was originally dropped off by her father, Dakota Crouch, to stay with her mom on July 2. But when Dakota returned two days later to pick up Rilee, the child and Lillian had disappeared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Missing Girl, 8, Found Safe After Driving Mom's Car to Target: 'We Did Let Her Finish Her Frappuccino' Rilees paternal grandmother, Cyndee Bailey, alleged that Lillian kidnapped her while trying to flee to Turkey, according to ValleyCentral. After being found in Panama, Rilee and her mom were taken by U.S. Marshals back to the States, KRGV reported. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. A spokesperson for the City of South Padre Island said that upon her arrival back in Harlingen, Texas, Rilee was released into the custody of her father, KRGV reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lillian has been charged in Texas with interference with child custody and contempt of court and appeared before a judge on Monday, according to ValleyCentral. It was not immediately clear if she has entered a plea or has an attorney who can comment on her behalf. Related: Missing 10-Year-Old Girl Found Safe in Her Pajamas After Sleepwalking Into the Woods ValleyCentral reported that Lillian's bond was set at $100,000 and she will continue to be under house arrest and required to wear a monitoring device. In a GoFundMe established to raise funds in the search for Rilee, Dakota described the disappearance of his daughter as a nightmare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you or anyone you know has ever been in this horrific situation, you can understand how we feel as a family, Dakota wrote in the fundraiser description. Related: 7-Year-Old Who Disappeared While Camping with Grandparents Found Safe After Fisherman Heard Her Cries for Help In an Aug. 31 update on the GoFundMe, the family thanked their supporters, adding: We cant wait to reunite Rilee back with her baby sister.. they love each other so much. The Crouch family and local law enforcement did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Read the original article on People The year 2024 had major space events including a total solar eclipse and historic moon landing. There were moments, though, that reminded us how challenging space exploration can be. Here are the US's biggest moments in space this year and the missions that didn't go so well. This was a big year for space in the US with many historic firsts. SpaceX caught a rocket in mid-air. NASA discovered the most promising evidence for ancient life on Mars. And scientists finally got their hands on a perfectly-preserved asteroid sample. Space exploration, however, is hard, and multiple moments reminded us of that like a broken Mars copter and glitchy spaceship. Here are the US's biggest moments in space this year and the missions that taught us outer space is a formidable place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The year kicked off with two unlucky events. A still from a live feed of Astrobotic Technology's launch to the moon on a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket. NASA Astrobotic Technology launched its uncrewed, NASA-funded Peregrine Mission One to the moon on January 8. The Peregrine lander aboard the Centaur Vulcan rocket ahead of launch. Astrobotic The mission suffered a propellant leak after launch and was unable to continue to the moon. A snap of the Peregrine lander in space was shared by Astrobotic on X. Astrobotic On January 18, Astrobotic's Peregrine lunar lander burned up in Earth's atmosphere. One of Peregrine's final photos shows the crescent Earth as it approaches re-entry. Astrobotic Technologies Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same day, NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter had lost a blade, ending its mission. Ingenuity Mars Helicopter (right) stands flightless on the ground in this photo taken by NASA's Perseverance Mars rover. One of its rotor blades (left) broke off. NASA/JPL-Caltech/LANL/CNES/CNRS Ingenuity was the only mission to have ever successfully flown on another planet. It completed 72 flights. One of Ingenuity's last photos shows the shadow of its damaged rotor blade. NASA/JPL-Caltech Better news came the following month when Intuitive Machines launched its NASA-funded IM-1 mission to the moon. Intuitive Machines' Odysseus moon lander beamed back its first images from space of Earth. Intuitive Machines On February 22, IM's Odysseus spacecraft became the first private craft to soft-land on the moon. The Intuitive Machines' Odysseus lander (indicated by white arrow at center) is spotted on the moon by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera. NASA/GSFC/Arizona State University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The landing marked the US's first return to the lunar surface in over 50 years, since Apollo 17. The Intuitive Machine's Odysseus lunar lander, shown here before launch, is 14 feet tall and 5 feet wide. Intuitive Machines/NASA After landing, Odysseus tipped on its side, disrupting comms with Earth. One of Odysseus's few photos on the moon. Intuitive Machines IM hopes to land a second spacecraft on the moon in January 2025. Intuitive Machines' Odysseus lander snapped this photo of Bel'kovich K crater on the moon before touch down. Intuitive Machines/X Lunar landings weren't the only major moment for the moon this year. The diamond ring effect is visible during this year's total solar eclipse. Thomas Roell/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On April 8, it slipped in front of the sun offering millions of people in the US a total solar eclipse. People in Glover, Vermont were one of many in the path of totality. Boston Globe/Boston Globe via Getty Images The rare event was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible from the US until 2044. A picture from the International Space Station shows what the eclipse looked like from space as the moon cast its shadow over Earth. NASA In June, Boeing launched two astronauts to the International Space Station on its Starliner spacecraft for the first time. Boeing's Starliner spacecraft during NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test in June. Joe Raedle/Getty Images The two astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, have been stuck on the ISS ever since after Starliner suffered engine issues. Suni Williams (left) and Butch Wilmore (right) on a call with journalists from the International Space Station. NASA TV Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, NASA's first year-long simulated Mars mission, CHAPEA-1, ended on July 6. The four crew members were released after living together in a 1,700 sq. ft. habitat for 378 days. The inaugural CHAPEA crew celebrates Thanksgiving inside the habitat. From left to right: Nathan Jones, Kelly Haston, Anca Selariu, Ross Brockwell. NASA/CHAPEA crew NASA CHAPEA missions are designed to study how humans may fare physically and mentally on long-duration space missions. CHAPEA-2 is scheduled to start in the spring of 2025. The CHAPEA crew celebrates the birthday for Ross Brockwell, left, inside the habitat. NASA/CHAPEA crew After months of deliberation, NASA and Boeing sent Starliner back to Earth without Williams and Wilmore. Boeing's uncrewed Starliner spacecraft backs away from the International Space Station on September 6. NASA Four days later, on September 10, SpaceX launched perhaps its most historic crewed mission yet: Polaris Dawn. The Polaris Dawn crew: Anna Menon, Scott Poteet, Jared Isaacman, and Sarah Gillis. SpaceX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polaris Dawn carried four commercial astronauts 870 miles into space farther than any human had been since NASA's Apollo missions. The crew posted this selfie on X using Starlink from their spaceship. Polaris Dawn crew The historic mission included the first commercial spacewalk ever. "Everything in that environment is trying to kill you," Jared Isaacman who led the mission, told Business Insider's Ana Altchek. Polaris Dawn crew members train to recognize symptoms of complications from decompression that might occur during a spacewalk. Polaris Program / John Kraus "You have all these extra senses kind of fusing together, and you get, I think, more of an appreciation for just how hostile and unwelcoming space is," Isaacman said about being outside of the capsule during the spacewalk. A still from a live feed of Jared Isaacman performing the first commercial spacewalk on September 12. SpaceX Shortly after Polaris Dawn successfully returned to Earth, NASA anticipated an exciting return from its OSIRIS-REx mission. Two Lockheed Martin Recovery Specialists transfer NASA's OSIRIS-REx return capsule for transportation to NASA's Johnson Space Center. NASA/Keegan Barber Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On September 24, a capsule containing a sample from the asteroid parachuted into Utah. A helicopter transports NASA's OSIRIS-REx return capsule from Utah to Texas. NASA/Keegan Barber It marked the first time an asteroid sample was ever collected and returned to Earth. Scientists collect asteroid particles from the base of the OSIRIS-REx science canister in September. NASA Early analysis of the sample found carbon and nitrogen building blocks of life that could hold clues to how life may have formed on Earth. Lauretta & Connolly et al. (2024) Meteoritics & Planetary Science NASA's Perseverance rover also earned a major win in the study of ancient life. It found the best potential evidence yet for past life on Mars. The Cheyava Falls rock sample inside Perseverance's drill bit. NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rover identified a rock with three key features that could point to alien life. The Mars rock contains three key features: organic compounds, white veins of calcium sulfate indicating water once ran through it, and tiny "leopard spots" that resemble patterns associated with microbial life on Earth. NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS NASA would need to return the sample to Earth to confirm the potentially groundbreaking discovery, but its Sample Return Mission has been tabled due to high costs and wait time. "Cheyava Falls" (left) shows the dark hole where NASA's Perseverance took a core sample. The white patch directly beside the hole is where the rover abraded the rock to investigate its composition. NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS October was an exciting month, starting with SpaceX's wild "chopsticks" catch on October 13. SpaceX successfully demonstrates its ability to catch a Super Heavy booster in mid-air during Starship's 5th test flight. SpaceX The next day, NASA launched its Europa Clipper toward Jupiter. The spacecraft is on a 1.8 billion-mile trajectory to reach Jupiter in April 2030. The 6,000-pound Europa Clipper spacecraft inside of NASA JPL's thermal vacuum chamber that simulates the harsh conditions of outer space. NASA/JPL-Caltech Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Europa Clipper is designed to help continue NASA's exploration of Jupiter after its Juno mission ends, which is set for September 2025. Juno took this pic during its 61st flyby around Jupiter on May 12. NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS; Image processing by Gary Eason On December 10, NASA's Perseverance rover finished its 3.5-month-long journey up the side of Jezero Crater, climbing 1,640 vertical feet. NASA's Perseverance Mars rover snapped this first photo of Jezero Crater's rim after its long, slippery ascent. NASA/JPL-Caltech As the year wrapped up, NASA had one more major milestone planned. On December 24, its Parker Solar Probe flew closer to the sun than any spacecraft in history. This illustration shows the Parker Solar Probe on its mission to touch the sun. NASA/Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Read the original article on Business Insider Three dozen endangered Florida panthers died this year, the most in nearly a decade, according to the state's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. It's the most panther deaths since 2016, when 42 panthers were killed. 2024 outpaced the previous year for panther deaths in May, according to the commission's statistics. November and December were particularly deadly months for the big cats, with 10 of this year's 36 panther deaths occurring then. But it wasn't all doom and gloom for the species: A litter of three young Florida panther cubs was confirmed to be living in the Okaloacoochie Slough State Forest in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just between 120 and 230 adult panthers are alive in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The highly-endangered species once lived across the Southeast, but the population was decimated, primarily by hunting, according to the National Wildlife Federation. Now, the big cats are mostly within one region of Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico, and remain susceptible to low genetic diversity, illness and habitat loss. Another huge threat to the species is cars and other vehicles. Of the 36 panthers killed in 2024, 29 were killed by vehicles, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. One panther was struck by a train. Four panthers had "unknown" causes of death, and just two of the cats were killed by predators, according to the commission. Panther Crossing, an organization dedicated to reducing the species' car deaths, said that at least 239 Florida panthers have died in vehicular collisions in the past decade more than the amount of adult panthers confirmed to be alive today. Officials and activists have urged motorists to slow down and pay attention to their surroundings in the South Florida counties where panthers are known to be active. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have a growing human population and the infrastructure, the roads, the buildings, the higher traffic and higher speeds ... all of that is happening right in the heart of the last remaining occupied habitat for the Florida panther," said Elise Bennett, the Florida and Caribbean director at the Center for Biological Diversity, in an interview with CBS News earlier this year. "They've been kind of cornered into this little area of Southwest Florida, and that's where we see the majority of these roadkills." CBS News 24/7 Credits 2024 Puerto Rico hit by major power outage on New Year's Eve Police prepare for New Year's Eve celebrations across the U.S. The U.S. Air Force sent at least 39 A-10s to the boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona this year, more than double the number of Warthogs it sent into mothballs in 2023. The service is pushing steadily ahead with plans to retire the type for good before the end of the decade, if not well before then, though the venerable ground attack aircraft continues to see combat in the interim. An A-10 arrives at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base to be put in the boneyard in July 2024. USAF Data on A-10 retirements are available on official monthly inventory reports from the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), released between January and September. The 309th AMARG manages the boneyard and received 17 Warthogs in 2023. There were 50 A-10As and 107 A-10Cs in storage in total, many of which are in non-flyable condition, as of September 2024. How many additional A-10s may have headed into retirement in the past three months is unknown. An example of the condition of some of the A-10s that have been at the boneyard for years now. USAF / J.M. Eddins Jr An example of the condition of some of the A-10s at the boneyard. USAF / J.M. Eddins Jr When Fiscal Year 2024 began on Oct. 1 of last year, there were 218 A-10s in service across the Air Force, according to separate data released back in March as part of the annual U.S. defense budget request rollout. The 39 Warthogs that went to the boneyard this year represent nearly 20% of that total. The Air Force currently plans to retire the last of the ground attack jets, which it argues have ever-more limited survivability and general utility, especially in any future high-end operations, such as a conflict in the Pacific against China, no later than 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Air Force only began retiring A-10s in earnest in 2023. For years, members of Congress had actively blocked the retirement of Warthogs, in part over questions about the ability of other aircraft, especially stealth F-35s, to fill in any potential gap in close air support capacity. Some of the debate to date has centered around the impending loss of the A-10s famed seven-barrel 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger Gatling-type cannon. The internally-mounted 25mm cannon on the Air Forces F-35As has also suffered serious issues over the years and whether or not they have been sufficiently resolved is unclear. At the same time, it is worth noting that the ground combat jets operations have steadily trended toward the employment of precision-guided munitions rather than strafing runs over the past two decades or so. A report from the Pentagons Office of the Director of Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) on a controversial flyoff between the A-10 and the F-35, conducted between 2018 and 2019, only emerged this year in a highly redacted form after having been effectively buried. The independent Project on Government Oversight (POGO) only obtained that document, which is dated February 2022, through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request and subsequent litigation. You can read more about the report, which raises more questions than it provides answers in many areas, here. Regardless, the overall view of the A-10 in Congress has clearly shifted in recent years. The most recent annual defense policy bill for the 2025 Fiscal Year, which President Joe Biden signed into law earlier this month, includes a provision explicitly reducing the minimum number of Warthogs that the Air Force has to legally keep in operational service from 135 to 96. The Air Force has already laid out extensive plans for a post-A-10 force structure across its active-duty components, as well as the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard. Just in November, the service announced that the 25th Fighter Squadron at Osan Air Base in South Korea would start divesting its 24 Warthogs next month. What will happen to that squadron afterward and what additional aircraft might take their place at Osan is unclear. Osan-based A-10s fly together with a South Korean Air Force KA-1 Woongbi light aircraft. ROKAF Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, the Air Force formally decided that the Maryland Air National Guards 175th Wing would lose its Warthogs and gain a non-flying cyber operations mission in return. However, earlier this month, a separate administrative decision was also made to shift the District of Columbia Air National Guards F-16-equipped 121st Fighter Squadron to the Maryland Air National Guard. Last year, the Air Force had also announced that the active-duty 23rd Wing at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia and Idaho Air National Guards 124th Fighter Wing at Gowen Field Air National Guard Base would be trading in their A-10s for F-35s and F-16s, respectively. The face of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, long itself an A-10 hub, is also set to change as a result of impending Warthog retirements. The base is slated to become home to an expanded 492nd Special Operations Wing flying OA-1K Sky Warden light attack aircraft and MC-130J Commando II special operations tanker/transports. The 492nd, which is currently based at Hurlburt Field in Florida, will support other non-flying Air Force special operations mission sets, as well. The OA-1K Sky Warden. L3Harris This year was also the last season for the A-10C Demonstration Team, reducing the Warthogs role in the Air Forces recruitment and public relations efforts. The Air Forces remaining A-10s have continued to receive some of their most substantial upgrades in recent memory just in the past few years, including the ability to employ GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB). Many of the Warthogs still in service have also gotten new wings, adding thousands of flight hours to service lives. An A-10 loaded with 16 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs seen during a test. USAF Despite ongoing retirement efforts, A-10s are still flying combat missions. Warthogs were among the aircraft sent to the Middle East in October amid fears of further escalation in direct conflict between Israel and Iran and other crises in the region. Ground attack jets have since been actively used in recent weeks to conduct strikes in Syria amid new uncertainty in that country following the ouster of longtime dictator Bashar Al Assad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been suggestions the A-10s could serve on with foreign air arms, including those of Jordan and Ukraine, after the U.S. Air Force retires the type for good. At least in the United States, the Warthogs career is more and more firmly in its twilight period, especially with the ramping up of jets heading to the boneyard this year. Contact the author: joe@thedrive.com CORNING, N.Y. (WETM) Four children and one adult were hospitalized during a Corning apartment fire that displaced residents and injured two firefighters. A fire was reported at a two-story apartment building located at 192 Chestnut St. at 11:46 a.m. on Dec. 30, and firefighters arrived at the two-unit building two minutes later, according to the City of Corning Fire Department. The firefighters rescued four children and one adult from the apartment located on the buildings second floor. An American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance took all five individuals to a local hospital after they were rescued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two firefighters were injured while extinguishing the fire, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. The American Red Cross is assisting the residents who were impacted by the fire. The City of Corning Fire Department, the City of Corning Police Department, the City of Corning Department of Public Works, the City of Corning Codes Office, the Corning Joint Fire District, the Painted Post Fire Department, AMR, and the Steuben County Fire Coordinators Office responded to the scene. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. As the calendar is ready to be flipped to 2025, here are four things to keep an eye on in the new year in Berks County. Work to start on new roundabout on Route 222 As far as roadwork is concerned in Berks, one of the biggest developments is expected to occur during the first month of 2025 and involves no earthmoving. Thats when PennDOT expects to open bids for a long-awaited roundabout project at Kutztown Road and Long Lane. Its one of the only remaining intersections on a 12-mile stretch of Route 222 before the Lehigh County line that is controlled by traffic lights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Route 222 and Long Lane intersection improvement project has been delayed a few years by right-of-way acquisition and funding issues. Three points of the intersection are occupied by Valentinos restaurant, Arbys and Rutters gas station and convenience store. A Wawa has been proposed for the fourth point, a vacant lot next to the Xode Inc. building. Alan D. Piper, Berks County transportation planner, said construction on the countys newest roundabout is expected to begin later in the year. Elsewhere in Berks, residents and those passing through will see the continuation of the project to replace the Lenhartsville Bridge on Interstate 78 over Maiden Creek in Greenwich Township, Piper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides the major projects, a number of paving and smaller-scale bridge projects are scheduled to be done this coming year by PennDOT or its contractors. Paving: Lancaster Avenue from Route 625 in Reading to Route 724 in Shillington. Mull Avenue from the Spring Township line to Route 724 in Sinking Spring. Mineral Spring Road from the Lindberg Viaduct to Perkiomen Avenue and Perkiomen to North 11th to Washington Street. The section of Interstate 78 between Shartlesville and Hamburg. The lower portion of Interstate 176 to the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Bridges: Alleghenyville Road over Interstate 176 in Robeson Township. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Route 724 over the Allegheny Creek in Robeson Township. Route 419 over the Tulpehocken Creek in Womelsdorf and Marion Township. Route 645 (Camp Swatara Road) over the Swatara Creek in Bethel Township. The bridge that carries Route 10 over a tributary of Conestoga Creek, near the turnpike interchange in Caernarvon Township. Steven Henshaw Large-scale industrial development shows no signs of slowing Henry Noss had no problem telling the South Heidelberg Township Planning Commission his reasons for wanting to part with farmland that has been in his family for generations. My dadwas never on a vacation in his life, did nothing but farm, Noss said at a meeting in December. He had a great life. But I dont plan on dying in his same feet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noss was one of multiple landowners courted in recent years by developers of warehouses, solar farms and other large-scale industrial projects. The Henry Noss farm in South Heidelberg Township recently received approval for the construction of a 440,000-square-foot warehouse on the property. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE) Consumer demands for more power, more products and faster shipping havent slowed, and neither have proposals by developers looking to meet those demands. Such developers generally seek out rural land in areas where the increased traffic and heightened light and noise their projects generate wont violate local codes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some municipalities and school districts are also eager to welcome such developments, especially in areas that dont have the commercial growth needed to offset increasing operational costs. For Noss and his family, the outcome has been positive a proposal by C&B Development to place a 440,000-square-foot warehouse on his land in South Heidelberg received final approval in December. But some residents living and working near the proposed megastructures have a less than rosy view of their new neighbors. They voice their opposition loudest in areas where proposed warehouses border concentrated population centers, like in Maxatawny Township, where C&B Development has proposed a 709,000-square-foot warehouse at the site of the former Kutztown Airport, near Kutztown University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those plans which remain in litigation have been vehemently opposed by some KU students and residents living nearby, who argue the increased truck traffic would risk their safety. Such sentiments can translate into election results, with officials looking to oppose warehouses or preserve the lands rural roots earning seats on local boards. Those officials include Maxatawny Township Supervisors John Deplanque and Marcus Simonetti, who voted in July to dismiss a land use request by developer 23 Max LLC, Allentown, for 1.2 million square feet of warehouse space on Hilltop Road. Residents earned similar success in Windsor Township after supervisors in October voted down a land use request to place a solar farm on 440 acres of historically rural land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that and other cases, residents banded together, forming action committees and hiring legal representation to fight developers in local land use hearings. One such case remains in litigation a proposal by developers Northpoint LLC, Riverside, Mo., for a 739,000-square-foot warehouse next to the Flying Hills residential development in Cumru Township. The proposal has divided officials in Cumru. Some commissioners see the plan as a critical monetary lifeline, while others view warehouses as a threat to the safety and character of the community and instead seek to generate tax dollars by spurring commercial development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That conflict of ideals played out when Cumru commissioners voted 3-2 in November to approve another proposal by C&B Development for a 543,000-square-foot warehouse and a 237,000-square-foot southwest of Grings Hill Road and Route 222. Farmers are also grappling with the realities of a shifting market. In Caernarvon Township, dairy farmer Jared Kurtz is looking to partner with developer Vanguard Renewables to install a waste processing facility. Kurtz says the project would give his fourth-generation farm the revenue to thrive for years to come, despite the total number of dairy farms plummeting nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vanguard, a subsidiary of multinational investing firm Blackrock, says the facility, called an anaerobic digester, would safely turn food waste into renewable gas, but some residents, as usual, have concerns. Keith Dmochowski Big moves on the way for Berks services The new year will be filled with improving facilities and packing boxes for Berks County. We have a lot of projects taking place in 2025, said Kevin Barnhardt, county chief operations officer. There are a lot of infrastructure and renovation plans that we will be undertaking. Barnhardt said finishing renovations to the Berks County Agricultural Center is a big priority for the county. Renovations to the Berks County Agricultural Center in Bern Township will be part of county-funded projects in 2025. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE) The county agricultural center houses a web of county and federal agencies related to preserving and enhancing agricultural production. Originally built in 1973, the center is composed of a 36,000-square-foot section that houses many offices and a 30,000-square-foot warehouse. Construction crews broke ground on improvements to the facility on County Welfare Road in Bern Township last summer to meet the contemporary needs of the county department of agriculture and the partner agencies. The two phases of the project are expected to cost more than $10 million money that will be drawn from the countys capital reserve. The first phase of the project includes conversion of the warehouse section into new office space for county and federal agencies, a county workshop, garage and storage spaces, updated restrooms, a break room, and upgraded electrical and mechanical systems. It also includes the construction of a new energy-efficient exterior and installation of large window sections that increase natural lighting. Barnhardt said those renovations are expected to be completed by the end of winter, then work will begin on the second phase in the spring. Those renovations will include more window replacements and interior improvements to the office suite. The space will be large enough to relocate other county offices, including the coroners office, which is in rented space near Reading Regional Airport in Bern Township. Barnhardt said the coroners office isnt the only department on the move in 2025. He said the county is moving six departments from their downtown location to the Berks County South Campus in Mohnton this spring. Once those moves are complete, Barnhardt said, it will give other departments more breathing room and allow them to make changes to improve efficiency. The effort is the result of a space allocation study the county had done to make sure they are maximizing the potential of their facilities. In addition to the building and relocation projects on the horizon, Barnhardt said addressing workforce challenges will continue to be a top priority for officials as they head into the new year. He said that like many counties across the country, Berks has struggled with recruiting and retaining workers to fill positions in county facilities and departments that provide around-the-clock services following the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes those who work in emergency services and at the nursing home and county jail. We still have large vacancies in all four areas, he said. More and more we are struggling to find people who want to work those evening and weekend shifts. Karen Shuey Turnpike tolling system changing Beginning Jan. 5, the Pennsylvania Turnpikes open road tolling system will go into effect in the eastern part of the state, including the section that passes through Berks, and the Northeast Extension. Under this system, officials said, tolls are charged electronically as motorists drive at highway speed beneath gantries between interchanges. Beginning Jan. 5, the Pennsylvania Turnpikes open road tolling system will go into effect in the eastern part of the state, including the section that passes through Berks County. Sensors in overhead gantries will collect the fares while vehicles pass at highway speed. (Courtesy of Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission) The first phase begins in January when the tolling system goes into effect at mile marker 290 in Lancaster County just east of the Reading Interchange near Adamstown, and points east to the Delaware River Bridge and Northeast Extension. Construction has begun on the central and western parts of the turnpike, which is expected to be completed in 2027. The turnpike will adjust its tolling system to a base per-mile rate, which means customers will get a single toll per segment as opposed to the aggregate trip they get now. For a two-axle car, an E-ZPass customer will pay 7 cents per mile, plus $1.09 per segment, while those using toll-by-plate will be charged 14 cents per mile, plus $2.18 per segment. Turnpike officials said the current toll for a passenger vehicle traveling between Morgantown (Exit 298) and Valley Forge (Exit 326) paying with an E-ZPass is $5.20. Their new toll will be $5.23. Turnpike officials say 84% of E-ZPass trips will see a toll decrease or an increase of less than $1 in 2025 compared to 2024 rates. Where gantries are not yet operational, tolls will be charged as an interchange-to-interchange trip but based on the new rate structure. To see the 2025 rates and calculate the cost for your route go to paturnpike.com/toll-calculator. Officials said there are several benefits to the open road tolling system: Interchanges will be safer as the toll booths will be removed and allow for more free-flowing traffic. The environment will also benefit as less fuel will be used because vehicles will no longer have to speed up after passing through the toll plazas. The turnpike commission will be able to add exits at a fraction of the cost because it wont have to build toll plazas. David Mowery Ukraine successfully returned four children from the Russian-occupied part of Kherson Oblast thanks to the "Bring Kids Back UA" initiative as well as "Save Ukraine," Kherson Oblast Governor Oleksandr Prokudin announced on Dec. 31. These include two boys and two girls, aged between 3 and 17. "A true New Year's miracle!" Prokudin said in his statement, adding that "each of them has endured experiences no child should ever face: Russian terror, threats, and interrogations of their relatives." Since February 2022, at least 20,000 Ukrainian children have been abducted from Russian-occupied territories and sent to other Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine or to Russia itself, according to a Ukrainian national database, "Children of War." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian Parliaments Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, estimates that Russia has unlawfully deported up to 150,000 Ukrainian children, while the Childrens Ombudswoman, Daria Herasymchuk, puts the figure at 200,000300,000. Since the beginning of 2024, at least 246 children native to Kherson Oblast have been returned from Russian occupation, Prokudin said. A Yale School of Public Health study published on Dec. 3 detailed Russia's systematic program of deporting and forcibly assimilating Ukrainian children. Under orders from Russian President Vladimir Putin, children were transported via military aircraft in 2022, reclassified in Russian databases as native-born, and subjected to pro-Russian re-education before being adopted into Russian families. Ukrainian children had been transported to at least 21 regions throughout Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine names pro-Russian collaborators suspected of forcibly deporting Ukrainian children Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A 58-year-old Sussex man died Monday morning in a two-vehicle crash after he ran a stop sign in the Town of Janesville, according to the Rock County Sheriff's Office. Officers responded to the crash at the intersection of County Highways A and H at 6:09 a.m. The investigation showed the Sussex man was traveling southbound on County H when he collided with a vehicle operated by a 19-year-old Janesville man, according to the sheriff's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sussex man was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead, while the 19-year-old was treated for injuries that were not life-threatening, the sheriff's office said. The intersection was closed for several hours during the investigation and reconstruction. No criminal charges are being pursued, according to the sheriff's office. The name of the Sussex man will be released by the Rock County Medical Examiners Office at alater date, the sheriff's office said. The Janesville Fire Department and Wisconsin State Patrol responded and assisted with at the crash scene. Cathy Kozlowicz can be reached at 262-361-9132 or cathy.kozlowicz@jrn.com. Follow her on X at @kozlowicz_cathy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Looking for a place to ring in 2025? Check out these places in the Milwaukee suburbs More: Here are 10 eateries that opened in Milwaukee's north suburbs in 2024 This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Sussex man dies in crash in Town of Janesville, Rock County EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) Details have been released on a police chase the went through two counties where a man is accused of shooting and threatening multiple people with a gun. On December 30, around 8:00 a.m., Pennsylvania State Police were notified of a stolen vehicle out of New Jersey traveling on Interstate 80. At this time, Butler Township Police discovered the reportedly stolen vehicle at Dunkin on North Hunter Highway. Isaac Cintron, 32, listed as homeless from Connecticut, was driving the SUV and police said they saw another man crawling out of the trunk and walking to the front of Dunkin. Police tried to get Cintron out of the SUV but he refused and fled onto I-80 driving east in the westbound lanes, troopers noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While driving the wrong way on I-80 near mile marker 262, investigators stated Cintron hit another car, exited his vehicle, shot a pistol at another driver, chased the car, and kept firing the gun until Cintron ran into the woods. Police say the person who was shot at witnessed the crash and was taken to the hospital after being injured as a result of Cintron allegedly shooting through the windshield. Police did not specify if the person was struck by bullets or other debris. Clerk stabbed during robbery in Wilkes-Barre Twp., suspects wanted Cintron walked to the Sand Springs Community and a homeowner called 911 informing police that Cintron entered their house, threatened them with a gun, and demanded keys to their car, as stated in the affidavit. The homeowner said they were able to chase Cintron out of the house, however, shortly after Cintron threatened a woman at gunpoint who was driving with her 3-year-old child and stole her vehicle near the intersection of Refuge Circle and Long Run Road, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple police units caught up with Cintron and found him driving on I-80 and state police tried to pull him over but he ignored them causing a chase to begin, police stated. The chase ended in Rush Township, Schuylkill County when Cintron crashed after going over spike strips. Around a dozen police vehicles surrounded the SUV before one trooper appeared to smash one of the windows to remove the driver. Through further investigation, police learned the man inside the trunk later told police that he was sleeping in the back of the vehicle while traveling from Connecticut to Chicago with Cintron. During the trip, while stopping in New Jersey, Cintron stole a car because he needed a GPS. Cintron was placed into custody after the incident. Cintron is facing various charges including attempted criminal homicide and seven counts of aggravated assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. A U.S. military court on Monday upheld a judges ruling that said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin acted improperly this year when he invalidated plea agreements for three men accused of planning the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The Court of Military Commission Review heard an appeal that sought to preserve Austin's move in August to unravel the plea deals with Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi. The agreements allow the defendants to plead guilty to lesser charges that would prevent them from receiving the death penalty. Guantanamo Bay detainees, from left, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak Bin Attash and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi. The three-judge panel concluded that Austin did not have the authority to back out of deals implemented by Susan Escallier, the convening authority for military commissions appointed by the defense secretary last year who worked to negotiate the agreements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court said the defense secretary improperly rescinded the deals after the pretrial agreements were already underway. Chief Judge Lisa M. Schenck wrote in her opinion, with the two other judges concurring, that Austins intervention in existing pretrial agreements was without precedent. The Defense Department is weighing its options, including whether to appeal, a defense official said. On Tuesday, the Pentagon filed a request asking the Military Commission to pause the matter, specifically any submission of pleas under the deal, until Jan. 27 as it weighs its options, the official said. The ruling affirms a lower court's finding last month that the three defendants should be allowed to move forward with their plea deals. All three are accused of aiding, abetting and conspiring to carry out the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and other sites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling noted that lawyers informed the court of the plea deals Aug. 1. The next day, Austin withdrew Escallier's authority to make such an agreement. "Responsibility for such a decision should rest with me," Austin said at the time. The court said that it would be unjust and outside the bounds of his authority for Austin to dismantle such a deal retroactively. It said the existence of a convening authority who can negotiate plea deals in this case, Escallier and a boss who can unravel them is not supported under military justice. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The Presente! A Latino History of the United States exhibition is important because its the first to present the experiences and historic perspectives of Latino communities in the United States as a fundamental part of U.S. history. For the first time, many visitors are seeing their communities represented in a museum, says Ranald Woodaman, exhibitions and public programs director at Washington, D.C.s National Museum of the American Latino. The show offers a look at Latino figures who have had a major social, cultural, and historic impact on the country. It visibilizes lesser-known individuals, such as Latinas who may serve as inspiration for younger generations. Visitors will find stories like that of Pura Belpre (1899-1982), a Puerto Rican childrens writer who became the first Latina to work in the New York City public library system. As a librarian, Belpre helped to create programs that reflect the cultural identity of Spanish-speaking young people. But the exhibition also features more contemporary figures, such as Ellen Ochoa, a physicist and NASA astronaut born in 1958 and whose father was Mexican. She made history on two occasions, by becoming the first Latina to go to space in 1993, and by being the first Latina and second woman to direct the Johnson Space Center. Here too is Nuyorican judge Sonia Sotomayor, who in 2009 became the first Latina and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Opening of the exhibition Presente! at the National Museum of the American Latino. Tasos Katopodis (Getty Images for Smithsonian Lat) Visitors to the Presente! page on the museums website will encounter a digital gallery currently showing a 14-minute digital installation directed by Spanish-Venezuelan filmmaker Alberto Ferreras. The piece, entitled Somos, delves into Latino diversity and the complexity of assigning it a single identity, but also explores that which unites the terms disparate groups. Because, as Woodaman points out, what it means to be Latino is not crystallized. It is a plural identity that is still in formation, and it is up to us to build it, together. The institution is attempting to create a cohesive history in which all communities are represented, while at the same time, establishing a universal throughline that unites them all, utilizing themes like the role of corn and the figure of grandmothers. According to Emily Key, assistant director of learning and public engagement (whose father is Venezuelan and whose mother is from the United States, of Mexican heritage), the exhibition has received 736,000 visitors since its opening in June 2022, 50% of which have been a combination of students and multigenerational families, and the other 50%, adults with no dependants. This is a museum by the community, for the community, says Key by videoconference. You are what you see, she continues. If you dont see yourself in history, you dont believe you are part of that culture, and it is important that young Latinos see themselves represented in cultural institutions, in the programs that schools do, in the books they read and study. We have a duty to teach them that they are part of history, that they should be proud of their ancestors, and that they can contribute. The Latino population is one of the largest minorities, it is the minority-majority, representing 20% of the population, which is about 63 million people, Key says. So its the duty of the National Museum as a Smithsonian institution to have those histories represented and made visible to the public. Even so, the National Museum of the American Latino, whose board of trustees includes Emilio Estefan, Sofia Vergara and Eva Longoria, still doesnt have a permanent space. Since June 2022, it has occupied the Molina Family Latino Gallery in the National Museum of American History while it waits on the approval of legislation that will determine the location of its building. This is a lengthy process, and the museum is not expected to open its doors for another 10 to 12 years. Add to this hurdle the fact that the museums content has already become the object of constant scrutiny. Last year, various conservative commentators criticized the current exhibition over its Marxist portrayal of Latinos as victims of an oppressive country. The New York Times and TIME pointed to this palpable political tension as the reason why the museums upcoming exhibit, which had been focused on the history of the Latino civil rights movement, was replaced with an exhibition that is expected to focus on the history of salsa music. Puro Ritmo! The Musical Journey of Salsa will open in the spring of 2026. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) The Anne Arundel County Fire Department said a 9-year-old boy was hospitalized with serious injuries on Monday after he sustained burns from an indoor fire pit. The fire department told DC News Now that the fire happened around 4 p.m. on Dec. 30 in the 8500 block of Crooked Tree Lane in the Laurel area. Officials said the blaze broke out in the living room on the second floor of a townhome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fines to increase for speeding in Maryland work zones Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters were able to contain and extinguish the flames before it spread past the living room. Meanwhile, medics treated the 9-year-old boy and a woman, who were both burned. Maryland State Police then airlifted the boy to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. The fire department said the woman was treated and released at the scene. The fire department noted that the fire was caused by an indoor ignitable liquid flame kit commonly used to make Smores indoors. The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning on Dec. 19, telling consumers to immediately stop using and dispose of these products. The commission also said two deaths and dozens of serious burn injuries have been reported as a result of the product. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Wednesday morning, the boys condition is unknown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Aaron Brown, a news anchor known for his coverage during CNNs broadcast of the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks, died on Sunday in Washington, D.C., his family confirmed to CNN. He was 76. Brown began his career as a radio talk show host in Minneapolis before moving to local television in Seattle and eventually becoming the anchor of ABCs overnight news programs World News Now and World News Tonight Saturday. He joined CNN in 2001, eventually anchoring NewsNight, which combined breaking news with in-depth analysis. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown was still in training when the Sept. 11 terror attacks occurred and though he hadnt been scheduled to go on air that morning, but he rushed to CNNs Manhattan office, making his first appearance as an anchor and guiding millions of viewers through the dramatic events of Sept. 11. I felt, in that moment, profoundly stupid, Brown told CNNs Brian Stelter years later in an interview about reporting the attacks live. A million things had been running through my mind about what might happen and it just never occurred to me that they would come down, and its the only time I thought, Maybe you just dont have what it takes to do a story like this. For his work broadcasting during the attacks, Brown was honored with the Edward R. Murrow award, which recognizes outstanding achievements in broadcast and digital journalism recognizing local and national news stories that uphold the RTDNA Code of Ethics, demonstrate technical expertise and exemplify the importance and impact of journalism as a service to the community. In addition to the Edward R. Murrow award, Brown would go on two win three Emmys, including one Emmy for his report Streets of Iraq. He also won a DuPont, two New York Film Society World medals and a George Foster Peabody Award. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After departing CNN during a shakeup in November of 2005, Brown taught at Arizona State University for seven years as the schools first Walter Cronkite professor of Journalism. Brown also served as the John J. Rhodes Chair in Public Policy and American Institutions at Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University. He was one of the greatest anchors in CNN history, said Stelter on X. NewsNight, circa 2001 to 2005, was all Aaron: from his thoughtful writing and rigorous questioning, to the whip around the world with correspondents, to his trademark preview of the morning papers. CNNs Anderson Cooper called Brown: a great writer and broadcasterThoughtful, funny, and diligent, he had a truly unique talent and a beautiful way with words. Aaron got to do the work that he loved and he felt lucky to do that work as part of a community of people who were dedicated to good journalism and who became good friends, Browns wife Charlotte Raynor said in a statement on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the course of his career, Aaron worked morning shifts, night shifts, and of course the Overnight (a program he absolutely loved working on), but he always found a way to make both ordinary and special times with our daughter Gabby and me. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Former CNN anchor Aaron Brown, who became a guiding light to millions of viewers with his tireless coverage of the 9/11 terror attacks, has died at the age of 76. Brown died on Sunday (December 29), his wife confirmed. No immediate cause of death was given. The veteran broadcaster became best known for breaking the news on the 2001 atrocity, which happened to fall on his first day with the network. The fateful day marked Browns first time on air with CNN. He wasnt even scheduled to appear that morning, but he jumped on the news reporting from the roof of the networks Manhattan office. Brown covered the attacks live for 17 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he was live on air, he just stopped and looked at it. And paused. And he shared this moment that everybody was thinking, Good Lord. There are no words, Browns former colleague John Vause remembered, per CNN. Brown went on to win the Edward R. Murrow Award for his 9/11 coverage. During a 2009 appearance on NPRs All Things Considered radio show, Brown reflected on his reporting of the terror attacks, saying: It captures what television ought to capture which is the totality of a story and that one did it all. 9/11 marked Aaron Browns first day with CNN (Getty Images) The strength of the country, the beauty of the day, and the horror of the moment, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before joining CNN, Brown spent years working in local journalism in Seattle before he was hired as the founding journalist for ABCs World News Now. He also worked as a reporter for ABCs World News Tonight with Peter Jennings and Nightline, as well as an anchor for World News Tonight Saturday and Good Morning America Sunday. Several of Browns ex-colleagues have since paid tribute, with one of his former producers, Molly Levinson, remembering him as a quintessential newsman to his core. So many people around the world remember his unflinching coverage on September 11, 2001, and in many ways the events that followed, Levinson told ABC News in a statement. On air he gave simple, understandable even elegant analysis and reporting. Behind the scenes as a boss and a mentor, he accepted nothing less than excellence, and he gave nothing less than endless loyalty in return. Theres no one like him and he will be deeply missed. While with CNN, Brown also notably covered the 2002 Beltway sniper attacks, the 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia disaster and the devasting 2004 tsunami and earthquake that hit Indonesia, killing more than 170,000. Aaron Brown, a renowned broadcast journalist from Minnesota and former anchor of flagship CNN and ABC news programs, has died. He was 76. Brown, raised in Hopkins, began his career as a radio talk show host in Minneapolis, according to the University of Minnesota, where Brown attended as a political science major before joining the U.S. Coast Guard reserves. In his television career, he is particularly known for his skillful and composed coverage of the September 11 attacks for CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His live coverage, which spanned the moment the South Tower collapsed, was later recognized with Brown winning the Edward R. Murrow Award. Brown is credited with shaping network news coverage at both CNN and ABC, serving as the founding anchor of ABC's "World News Now." Aaron Brown. Courtesy of ABC News | YouTube. He also anchored ABC's "World New Tonight Saturday" and "Good Morning America Sunday" and reported for "World News Tonight with Peter Jennings", "Nightline", and other ABC programs. In a statement to ABC News, Molly Levinson, one of Brown's former producers, said Brown "was a quintessential newsman to his core". "On air he gave simple, understandable even elegant analysis and reporting," Levinson told ABC. Behind the scenes as a boss and a mentor, he accepted nothing less than excellence, and he gave nothing less than endless loyalty in return. There's no one like him and he will be deeply missed. It's been a rough year for Iran and its friends in the Middle East. Israel has degraded Tehran's proxy forces and delivered punishing airstrikes against Iran itself. And Iran just lost one of its most important allies in the region: the Assad regime. From Gaza to Beirut, Damascus to Tehran, it's been a rough year for Iran and its allies and proxy forces across the Middle East. Israel's wars against Hamas and Hezbollah have severely degraded these two Iranian proxies, while its military confrontations with Iran itself have left the country short on critical defenses. Tehran's key ally Syria's longtime dictator, Bashar Assad was just ousted by rebel forces. A senior Biden administration official said earlier this month that Assad's fall can be traced to US support for Israel in its conflicts with Iran and its proxies and Ukraine in its defense against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Hamas is on its back; its leaders are dead," the US official told reporters. "Iran is on its back. Hezbollah is on its back. Russia is on its back. It's just abandoned its only ally in the Middle East." "Now, the Assad regime Russia and Iran's main ally in the Middle East has just collapsed," they said. The Iranian proxies Mourners surround flag-draped coffins of Hezbollah fighters who were killed fighting Israel during a funeral procession in Lebanon in December. Fadel Itani/Middle East Images via AFP Hamas' October 7, 2023, massacre, which killed around 1,200 people in Israel, sent shockwaves through the Middle East and triggered an immediate and devastating military response. What began as an aerial bombardment later turned into an Israeli invasion of Gaza. After more than a year, Israel has eliminated Hamas' military leadership, including Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the October 7 attacks, in a scorched-earth campaign that local authorities in Gaza say has killed over 45,000 Palestinians and drawn international condemnation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said after Sinwar's killing that Israel has "decimated" the military structure of Hamas, although he acknowledged the group is still a threat in Gaza. Meanwhile, Lebanese Hezbollah started attacking Israel shortly after October 7, and the two longtime enemies regularly exchanged cross-border fire for nearly a year, displacing tens of thousands of people as fighting steadily escalated. In September, Israel sharply increased the pressure with its audacious pager attacks, followed by a new campaign of strikes that wiped out Hezbollah's senior leadership and weaponry. Israeli forces then invaded Lebanon before a late-November cease-fire ended the fighting, which left thousands of people dead across the country. Brian Carter, the Middle East portfolio manager at the American Enterprise Institute's Critical Threats Project, said earlier this month that the "Israeli operations in Lebanon have defeated Hezbollah and compelled the group to end its involvement in the October 7 War." Iran itself Satellite imagery shows damaged buildings at a military facility in Iran following Israeli strikes in October. Planet Labs PBC In early April, an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus killed multiple senior Iranian military officials, escalating what had long been a shadow war between Israel and Tehran. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iran responded later that month by launching over 300 missiles and drones at Israel, but nearly all the projectiles were shot down in what was the first-ever direct attack on Israel from Iranian soil. Israel then struck Iran in retaliation. In July, Iran accused Israel of executing the daring assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas' political wing. Haniyeh was killed at a guesthouse in Tehran a tremendous security breach and a blow to Iran. Iran waited months to retaliate over the killing of Haniyeh and other proxy leaders, but on October 1, it launched some 200 ballistic missiles at Israel the second direct confrontation between the two bitter foes. Officials said a majority of the Iranian missiles were intercepted. Israel then responded later that month, carrying out widespread airstrikes that nearly wiped out all of Iran's air-defense systems and degraded its ability to produce missiles. An Israeli security official told BI in the aftermath that the strikes were "powerful" and put Tehran at a "disadvantage," as they left the country vulnerable to follow-on military action. The Assad regime People celebrate in Damascus following the first Friday prayers since Assad was ousted in December. AP Photo/Leo Correa Iran long supported the Assad regime because it viewed Damascus as a crucial pillar for keeping weapons flowing to Hezbollah and projecting its influence across the region to Lebanon along the Mediterranean Sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But earlier this month, Syria's yearslong civil war ended in shocking fashion when rebel forces suddenly swept across the country in a lightning offensive that lasted just days and ended with their capture of Damascus. Assad and his family fled to Moscow. US officials attributed the sudden collapse of the Assad regime to the fact that its main allies Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia were much weaker than in years past and simply couldn't intervene militarily as they had done earlier in the civil war. President Joe Biden said after the rebels captured Damascus that the military setbacks Iran and Hezbollah have suffered fighting against Israel this year essentially made it "impossible" for them to continue to support the Assad regime. The Houthis Houthi fighters man truck-mounted guns during a rally against Israel and the US in December. Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Iranian ally that has stood out among the others is the Houthis, a rebel group in Yemen that has spent over a year attacking civilian and military ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Armed with a large, diverse stockpile of missiles and attack drones, the Houthis have launched more than 130 attacks on vessels transiting shipping lanes off the coast of Yemen. They have struck a number of merchant ships, sinking two of them and hijacking one. Four sailors have been killed during the campaign. The Houthis have said their campaign is in support of Palestinians in Gaza, although US officials often dismiss this claim since the rebels have targeted vessels sailing under many different flags. These attacks have caused a significant decline in activity along a key global trade route, forcing shipping companies to make longer and more costly trips around Africa. A Western naval coalition, led by the US Navy, has so far been unable to defeat or deter the Houthis. American forces routinely intercept inbound missiles and drones and carry out strikes against the rebels in Yemen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though degraded, the Houthis still retain the ability to attack ships. Just this month alone, the rebels have targeted US warships and commercial ships with missiles and drones on multiple occasions. The vessels all emerged unscathed after the attacks, but the incidents underscore the enduring threat that shows no signs of stopping. Read the original article on Business Insider OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) One of Oklahomas top lawmakers and a local attorney are questioning why Attorney General Gentner Drummond made a decision last week to dismiss an assault and battery charged tied to an Oklahoma City Police officer. News 4 has been following developments since the incident happened October 27. In body camera and surveillance video released by police, you see Sgt. Joseph Gibson arguing with 71-year-old Lich Vu about a traffic citation. Video shows Vu touch Gibson after telling him to shut up. The two exchange words before Vu is thrown to the ground and knocked unconscious. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: AG Drummond drops charge against OKCPD officer accused of using excessive force Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vu suffered a C1 fracture, orbital fracture, and a brain bleed as a result of the incident. Court documents indicated he was in poor health and Gibson was in robust health. Documents indicated an officer in the department had conducted a follow-up investigation and that after consulting with the departments de-escalation control and defensive tactics instructors, believed the amount of force Gibson used was not reasonable. Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna filed an assault and battery charge against Gibson on December 6, rather than asking a grand jury to review the case first. On December 27, Attorney General Gentner Drummond said he was taking over the prosecution of the case and was dropping the charge. His office released the following statement explaining his reasoning: As Attorney General, I will not permit Oklahoma police officers to face criminal prosecution for conduct adhering to their training. While the outcome of this incident is unquestionably devastating for Mr. Vu and his family, I do not believe the officer exhibited criminal intent. Our law enforcement officers work under constant stress, where the most routine interactions can become life-threatening in an instant. For everyones safety, it is imperative to follow an officers instructions and to never strike, push, or make any kind of unwelcome physical contact with an officer. This is the law, and the law applies equally to all. No individual is allowed to hit or push an officer, regardless of whether he or she doesnt understand English well or comes from a different culture. The simple truth is, this unfortunate incident never would have occurred if Mr. Vu had kept his hands to himself. The Oklahoma City Police Department is conducting a thorough and rigorous investigation to determine whether Sgt. Gibson violated any policies or procedures. The results of that investigation will determine what discipline he may face. Gentner Drummond, Attorney General of Oklahoma Drummonds decision prompted a firestorm of public comment over the weekend with supporters of Vu and Gibson weighing in. News 4 reached out to Drummonds office requesting an interview or further comment on the matter on Friday, but a spokesperson declined. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Asian community, former AG react to officer assault charges in use-of-force case Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 4 reached out to a spokesperson for District Attorney Vicki Behenna on Friday for comment and received the following statement: I am surprised and disappointed that Attorney General Gentner Drummond took this case away from my office and the citizens of Oklahoma County. Vicki Behenna, Oklahoma County District Attorney News 4 followed up with Behennas office again on Monday requesting an interview, but had not heard back at the time of publication. One lawmaker however, did weigh in over the weekend. Democratic House Rep. Cyndi Munson, accused Drummond of abusing his power in a lengthy social media post. News 4 sat down with Munson on Monday to break down her thoughts. Its just an abuse of power, said Munson. Its one of those situations where you have to ask yourself, just because I can, should I? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 4 has included Munsons entire post below: Weve seen the video of what happened to Mr. Vuin fact, the entire nation has, too. And heres whats clear: an elderly man was unnecessarily assaulted by a LEO. Heres whats also clear, and unfortunate: this is an abuse of power by the AG for political purposes. When you have power, how you use it tells us everything we need to know about you. This decision is about gaining political points, not protecting law enforcement or our community. Id venture to say many in our community feel less protected and safe tonight. Mr. Vu and his family deserve justiceand thats what the AG should be advocating for. This case belongs with the DA in OK County who was elected to take on the work of her OK County constituents. She should be trusted to do that. Imagine this happening to your grandfather, father, or someone you love. You would want justice. I think most of us believe Mr. Vu and his family deserve that. Its too bad the AG doesnt. I am thinking of and praying for Mr. Vu as he continues to recover from injuries. Rep. Cyndi Munson (D-OKC) Munson said whats surprised her the most sense sharing her thoughts is that reaction shes seen online mostly seems to be in line with her own. News 4 did press her on her comments though, alleging that Drummond is using the situation for political purposes. I think its a well-known rumor that hes looking at a higher office and doing some different things, and so its possible that he was trying to get the attention of one particular group by doing something like this, said Munson. News 4 reached out to Drummonds office again on Monday, prior to speaking with Munson about the accusations in her post. While a spokesperson declined to comment on comments about political implications, they did include a state statute that gives Drummond clear legal authority for his action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tit. 74 O.S. 18b(A)(3), states that the Attorney General has the duty to initiate or appear in any action in which the interests of the state or the people of the state are at issue, and prosecute, in any court, civil or criminal, in which the state may be a party or interested; and when so appearing in any such cause or proceeding, the Attorney General may, if the Attorney General deems it advisable and to the best interest of the state, take and assume control of the prosecution. He does have the ability and the discretion to pick up and take any case and handle it in way in a way that he sees that is fit, said Oklahoma attorney Robert Gifford. It just doesnt send the right message to the public. Munson said shes worried Drummonds decision will erode trust for vulnerable Oklahomans with law enforcement and their elected leaders. We trust our law enforcement officers, said Munson. We know theyre out there trying to protect the community and protect folks and build relationships, but what the [Attorney General] did, I do believe, broke some of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gibson is still on administrative leave with Oklahoma City Police pending the outcome of an internal investigation. Gifford say the federal government getting involved may not be off the table either. He also said Vus family could also decide to file a civil lawsuit. Supporters of Vu are also being asked to attend an Oklahoma City Council meeting December 31 at 8:30 a.m. to demand justice. A representative with Oklahomas American Civil Liberties Union is expected to address city leaders. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A community activist in west Charlotte is arguing INLIVIAN, Charlottes housing authority, needs to increase security after a deadly shooting on Sunday afternoon. Campbell Jordyn, 18, was pronounced dead at the scene after being shot in the middle of the Little Rock Apartment complex, near the intersection of West Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. Bart Noonan with the West Blvd Ministry spoke with Queen City News on Monday, frustrated with the violence that seems to plague the development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Section of West Boulevard to close in association with CLT airport construction Middle of the day, right next to the playground, an automatic weapon is unloaded, and its only by the grace of God that one person was shot, he said. Noonans ministry includes several Little Rock residents. He said he is frustrated and convinced that INLIVIAN is not doing enough to protect tenants. Weve had multiple shootings over there in the past couple of years, weve had multiple conversations with INLIVIAN, about the violence over there, Noonan said. Bart Noonan of West Blvd Ministry. INLIVIAN spokesperson Cheron Porter acknowledged what happened on Sunday was horrific. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our first and foremost concerns are for the safety and well-being of our residents, we are highly frustrated, and we dont like what happened any more than anyone else, he said. But Porter also pointed out that neither the shooter nor the victim were Little Rock tenants. She said they have made multiple changes since taking ownership in 2022, that they focused specifically on engaging with residents. We implemented on-site security, we have cameras, we have an increased relationship with CMPD, said Porter. 3 arrests, 5 citations issued during multiple street takeovers across Charlotte over the weekend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noonan contends Sundays homicide is proof not enough is being done. If yesterday, they had security driving around that property, mid-day, I dont think a young man would have stepped out of his car, taken an automatic weapon with an extended clip, and unloaded in the middle of the day. Porter pushed back on that prediction, arguing that only so much can be done to ensure safety. I dont think theres anything that anyone can do to stop someone who has ill intent, I dont care where you are in these United States, she said. According to INLIVIAN, the propertys surveillance system helped police identify a suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) There is still time to make plans for New Years Eve. There are plenty of Birmingham-area businesses hosting events and parties Tuesday. There are things for adults and family-friendly fun. For those 21 and over, theres the Workplay Reveillon. Its the first event of its kind in Birmingham, and the organizers said theres no better way to ring in 2025. Its the grown and sexy crowd rather than bringing your kids, organizer Ashley Gooden said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party is happening in a 30,000-square-foot venue. It features three separate party rooms: Paris, Rio and New York. For us to be able to have this experience, it makes it stand out rather than just going to a party with a toast and a ball drop, Gooden said. Closing of Birmingham-Southern College, death of Alabama A&M football player among CBS 42s most-read stories of 2024 If youre looking for a more family-friendly way to spend New Years Eve, you can do so at the Birmingham Zoo with the zoos two red pandas. Theyll be educational activities, said Bill Lang, the zoos director of marketing and events. Theres music here. Theres all types of fun stuff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The highlight of Zoo Years Eve will be a ball drop featuring sculptures of the zoos red pandas, which are an endangered species. Its a great way of showcasing the zoo animals here and efforts to help grow and expand the species, Lang said. Tickets for both events can be purchased online. For tickets and more information on the Workplay Reveillon, click here. For more information and tickets for Zoo Years Eve, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. (NewsNation) British researchers have developed an artificial intelligence tool that can identify people at risk of a serious heart condition before symptoms appear, potentially preventing thousands of strokes, the BBC reported. The AI system, developed by scientists at the University of Leeds and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, analyzes electronic health records to detect warning signs of atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition causing irregular and abnormally fast heart rates, per the BBC. The tool examines patient data including age, sex, ethnicity and existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease to calculate individual risk levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement App uses AI to predict when youll die The algorithm was trained using anonymized health records from over 2.1 million people and validated against 10 million additional records, according to Sky News. Patients identified as high-risk during the ongoing West Yorkshire trial are given a portable ECG device to monitor their heart rhythm for four weeks. If successful, researchers hope to expand the trial nationwide. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. When Israeli troops arrived in the Syrian village of Suesa, at the foot of the Golan Heights, last Wednesday, residents immediately organized a peaceful demonstration demanding that they withdraw. For 30 minutes, we stood in front of the soldiers shouting slogans like Free Syria, Israel out! They threatened us: If you dont go home, we will do to you the same as we did to those in Gaza... Then, suddenly, without even a stone being thrown at them, they opened fire, recalls Aymen al-Awad. The 46-year-old farmer is one of seven people who were wounded by bullets that day, an example of the tensions in the area after Israel took advantage of the fall of Bashar al-Assads regime to extend its occupation of the Golan Heights Syrian territory partly taken by Israel in 1967 by several hundred square miles. Al-Awad, who is limping noticeably, was not the worst off. About 15 bullet fragments hit his right leg after the projectile ricocheted off the ground or a wall. The same happened to three other protesters, all of whom are convalescing at home. But three other villagers were directly hit by the bullets and are still in hospital in Damascus. In the most serious condition is a 15-year-old boy, whose lungs were pierced by a round. The doctor decided to wait 10 days to see how the wounds develop before deciding whether to operate or not, said the farmer, sitting in the humble dining room of his house. The resistance of the Suesa residents served at least to force the withdrawal of the 50 soldiers and their armored vehicles. The inhabitants of Quneitra province were unable to join in the celebrations in other regions following the collapse of the dictatorship on December 8. The next day, the [Israeli] soldiers came asking if we had weapons or if there were Hezbollah militants. We told them no, and that they could go now, explains Hail al-Abdala, the mukhtar a figure whose functions are somewhere between those of a mayor and a local dignitary of the village of Hamidie, which is one of the seven towns recently occupied by Israel. Others, like Suesa, are located in a border area with an ambiguous layout, as Israeli troops have expanded it several times in recent days and also carried out raids in villages under the control of Damascus in search of weapons. Israel occupied much of the Golan Heights during the Six-Day War in 1967, but it was not until after another war in 1974 that it signed an armistice with Damascus establishing a demilitarized perimeter on the Syrian side, which is the territory it has now invaded. Since then, a U.N. mission of some 1,200 peacekeepers has monitored compliance with the agreement. These troops withdrew after the recent Israeli offensive. An Israeli tank in the Golan Heights, Syrian territory occupied by Israel since 1967. Ronen Zvulun (REUTERS) Israeli abuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that troops will remain on Syrian soil until a security agreement is reached with the new government. In addition, the Israeli army carried out some 500 airstrikes in Syria in the second week of December, most of them targeting military installations. The latest airstrike took place on Saturday outside Damascus against a weapons depot, killing at least two people. The U.N. considers both the 1967 occupation and the hostile acts of recent weeks to be a violation of international law. From conversations with around 20 residents from different villages in the area, a litany of complaints about abuses by Israeli soldiers emerge. In the village of Hurriye, the soldiers gave residents just one hour to leave their homes. In Kodana, they destroyed a couple of houses and a water pipe, and shot an employee who was repairing the electrical line in the leg. In Hamidie, they destroyed several public buildings and confiscated all kinds of equipment, including computers Now, most of the displaced people have returned to their homes. But the soldiers only let us in and out of the village between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., which is a serious problem for students and those who work outside, says Al-Abdala, an elegant old man with piercing blue eyes. Children are the ones who suffer the most from the situation, because of the stress caused by the presence of soldiers and tanks, says Abir Rueli, a young pediatrician. The Israeli invasion has led to disruption or interruption of some basic services, such as cell phone coverage, bread distribution, and above all, the flow of electricity and running water. We have not had water for 20 days. The Israelis have occupied the two wells that were used to supply our seven villages, complains Shaher, a pensioner from Kodana who last Saturday, along with more than 200 other people from the region, attended the first public meeting with citizens organised in Quneitra by the interim government in Damascus. The highest authority who went to the Quneitra Cultural Center, just 300 meters from a threatening Israeli tank, was the bearded Abu Bara, military chief of the southern region of the country. During the question and answer session, a good part of the interventions revolved around the hostile Israeli presence. We are in contact with Damascus and we hope, step by step, to be able to solve the problems with our neighbor, Abu Bara said simply. The fact that he referred to Israel as a neighbor, while all other interventions used the term enemy, raised some suspicions in the room. The same reaction was provoked by statements made two days earlier by the new governor of Damascus, in which he assured that the new government had no problem with Israel and did not want to do anything that would threaten its security. On social media, some critics of the ruling Islamist militia, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), question its patriotism, suggesting that its moderate tone toward the Israeli occupation is due to secret agreements with the Israeli government or Washington. However, secular analyst Ammar Abdulhamid defends the governments approach: Since war with Israel is not an option, what alternative to diplomacy do we have? Interestingly, HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharas nom de guerre is Al-Julani or Al-Golani because his family is originally from the Golan Heights and was among those forced to flee their homes by the 1967 invasion. I know his family. They are good people. But so far, we have not been able to meet him, mukhtar Al-Abdala says with a hint of bitterness. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Ukraines Air Force has said that there was a threat of a Russian ballistic missile strike on Kyiv and several other parts of Ukraine from the northeast on the night of 3031 December, and air defence had been activated in Kyiv. Source: Ukraines Air Force; Kyiv City Military Administration; Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko Details: At 03:00, Ukraines Air Force said there was a threat of a Russian ballistic missile strike from the northeast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An air-raid warning was issued in Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine. Explosions were heard in Kyiv, and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko and Kyiv City Military Administration said air defence was operating. At 03:39, an all-clear was given in Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Southwest Airline passengers have cracked a code allowing them to subvert the travel providers boarding rules by claiming to need wheelchairs. A report on airline site View From the Wing alleges 30 passengers claimed to need wheelchairs on a recent flight between Florida and Puerto Rico. When the plane landed, 28 of those travelers reportedly walked away, leaving the chairs behind. Southwest seats passengers through an open seating process that rewards travelers who either arrive early, pay extra or have a physical disability, the airlines website states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They didnt all need a wheelchair, but cracked a code, View from the Wing reported. The site calls the passageway that gets travelers on board their flights a Jetbridge Jesus because people who supposedly need a wheelchair to board miraculously rise to their feet and walk away upon arriving at their destination. Several photos posted to the site show passengers seated in wheelchairs as well as several empty wheelchairs. Its not clear if the passengers in those chairs needed them or were gaming the system. Southwest couldnt immediately be reached for comment. Multiple passengers posted images on social media claiming they also had encountered travelers boarding in wheelchairs, then walking away when their Southwest flight deplaned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fix this please, wrote one social media user who expressed frustration over what they called an abuse of privilege. That person claimed to have witnessed 15 wheelchair-bound travelers pre-board, then rise to their feet once inside the jet. The point could be moot when the airline implements an assigned seating process similar to what its competitors use. _____ TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Saturday marked 10 years since AirTran Airways officially shut down after being purchased by Southwest Airlines. But the now-defunct airline will always have a special connection to Tampa. AirTrans final revenue flight was on Dec. 28, 2014, from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to Tampa International Airport (TPA). When the plane landed in Tampa, it officially marked the end of the airline and the integration with Southwest was complete. [Cropped] A flight attendant holds a paper that reads: In Commemoration of AirTran Airways Final Flight. Flight #1 ATL to TPA. December 28, 2014. Thank you for being a Customer onboard this historic flight. (Courtesy: Southwest Airlines) Why did the airline choose Tampa for its last flight? AirTran Airways started in the early 1990s as Conquest Sun Airlines, which was based in Orlando. Conquest Sun Airlines was purchased in 1994 by AirTran Corporation, which renamed the airline AirTran Airways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1997, ValuJet purchased AirTran Airways and planned to drop the ValuJet name, the New York Times reported after two major incidents, including a crash on May 11, 1996, in the Florida Everglades that resulted in the deaths of all 110 passengers and crew members on board, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Will you need a REAL ID to fly in 2025? ValuJet then changed its name to AirTran Holdings and changed the name of ValuJet Airlines into AirTran Airlines which eventually merged with the AirTran Airways name. In September 2010, Southwest Airlines announced it would purchase AirTran Airways. The sale closed in 2011. Previous news reports showed the deal at $1.4 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After combining operations, Southwest announced that AirTrans final flight would be on Dec. 28, 2014, from ATL to TPA, which was the airlines first commercial route when it was known as ValuJet. Woman opens emergency exit, climbs onto wing of Alaska Airlines plane in Seattle The evening flight from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to Tampa Bay reprises the first flight the carrier operated on Oct. 26, 1993, Southwest said in a news release. Courtesy: Southwest Airlines Courtesy: Southwest Airlines Courtesy: Southwest Airlines Courtesy: Southwest Airlines Courtesy: Southwest Airlines The final flight was AirTran Airways Flight 1. The flight arrived at Gate C44, where passengers and crew members were met by a large crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. The dome of the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery, Alabama, as seen on January 24, 2023. A report from the Campaign Legal Center said Alabama was one of nine that had attempted to restrict the power of ethics commissions, citing a bill filed last year. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector) A new report found a number of efforts to reduce the power of ethics commissions, legislatively or legally, to investigate the conduct of public officials and gauge misconduct. The report from the Campaign Legal Center (CLC) comes after an attempt in the Alabama Legislature earlier this year to reclassify some ethics offenses and limit the ability of the Alabama Ethics Commission to impose penalties, a proposal that drew criticism from both the Ethics Commission and the Alabama Attorney Generals Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think there is a little bit more awareness of ethics commissions and the roles they play, said Delaney Marsco, the CLCs director of ethics. There is also a desire to push back against the accountability that they provide from the regulated community, and from legislators who are scared of ethics complaints getting filed against them. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The report, which draws on news and litigation in assessing challenges to ethics commissions, categorizes them as enforcement authority threats, subject matter jurisdiction threats and existential threats. Many of the threats stem from legal challenges and legislation filed by lawmakers to weaken the role of ethics commissions within the political sphere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While ethics commissions are facing threats from throughout the country, from as far west as Nevada to states such as New York and Maine in the northeast, the report states that more of the challenges are coming areas where Republicans control the executive and legislative branches. Of the 12 states included in the report, the report cited nine, including Alabamas, as challenging ethics commissions, while two, Washington and Vermont, have strengthened ethics commissions. Of the states listed, six were southern states with Republican legislative majorities. The report estimates that about 42% of the challenges were successful. About a third failed and another quarter remains ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are novel arguments getting made, and there are different ways that are coming to these attacks, Marsco said. In terms of litigation and legislation, these are tried and true tactics that folks who want to undermine ethics commissions have been using for a long time. The Alabama bill cited in the report came from Rep. Matt Simpson, R-Daphne. The bill would have lowered the penalties for some ethics violations and increased them for others. It also would have changed how members of the Alabama Ethics Commission were appointed and required the attorney general to approve any penalties assessed by the commission. Simpson said that the current ethics law made it hard for elected officials and public employees to determine what an ethics violation is and what it isnt. He gave the example multiple times of a local staff member who donated his lawn mower to his municipality after purchasing a new one, but then used the mower after his mower had broken down. That is an ethics violation, Simpson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Ethics Commission and the Alabama Attorney Generals office opposed the bill, saying it could reduce the independence of the commission and weaken the existing laws. The bill died in the waning days of the 2024 session, but the Legislature approved a separate resolution to study the states ethics laws. The expert is to report his findings by the first day of the 2025 legislative session, Simpson said in a statement. Once we get the report back I will have more information. I have worked closely with Senator Sam Givhan, members of LSA, and others on this issue and I look forward to working together to make sure we get a positive solution for our state. Messages seeking comment were sent to the Alabama Attorney Generals Office and the Alabama Ethics Commission. The CLC report categorized Alabamas attempt to change the states ethics laws as an enforcement power threat, citing among other concerns some of the lower penalties, the new appointments, and the reduction of investigative powers. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey authorized flags to be flown at half-staff statewide to honor the life of former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at 100. A man of faith, a servant leader and someone defined by their character are just a few words used to describe the 39th president of the U.S. State Rep. Sam Jones (D-Mobile) said Carter wasnt a perfect president but did his best to serve humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I got a whole lot of respect for Jimmy Carter. Always did, Jones said. Because of his heart the kind of heart he put into serving. State Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile) said that heart is what emboldened our country and helped those who needed it most. He said that I want it to be better, and I just hope that we all can take an example from him and learn how we can disagree but still respect each other, Drummond said. Jimmy Carter is being mourned in his tiny hometown and around the world Jimmy Carter not only lived the longest of any former U.S. President, but his life also brought a greater dignity to the presidency, Ivey said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other Republicans said that Carter stood with bold faith. I look to him, said state Rep. Debbie Wood (R-Valley). Oh, heavens, you look to a Democrat? Absolutely. Because he has modeled the way I want to live my life. He was committed to his family. He and his wife were married for over 75 years. He was a brave, bold man, and he stood up for what he believed what was right, said state Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover). I think well always remember the actions and words that he used. His faith as paramount in his life. Flags will be flown at half-staff on the capitol grounds and around the state for 30 days in remembrance of Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. A Horizon Air flight on Christmas Eve from Anchorage to Fairbanks was forced to turn around after an eagle hit the plane. On Sunday, a major plane crash at a South Korean airport that killed 179 people and left just two survivors is also believed to have been caused by a bird strike meaning a collision between a bird and an aircraft. Alaska Airlines said Horizon Air Flight 2041 had just taken off at noon local time on Dec. 24 when the crew reported a bird strike. Alaska Air Group owns both Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flight turned around and returned about 30 minutes later, according to FlightAware data. That flight typically takes about an hour. The captain and first officer are trained for these situations and landed the aircraft safely without any issue. No emergency was declared, the airline said. The plane returned to the gate and passengers were swapped to another aircraft to make it to Fairbanks. The airline said the aircraft was removed from service for inspection, but has since returned to service. Passenger Michelle Tatela was visiting from Chicago when the incident happened. Were in the air, and after a few minutes, we were told we were turning back around out of an abundance of caution, to come back to Anchorage, she told NBC affiliate KTUU of Anchorage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the plane landed back in Anchorage, she said passengers learned that a bird strike involving an eagle was behind the sudden return. The eagle survived at that time, Tatela told the station. And there were a bunch of police cars around the plane. Normally, it would be a scarier situation, but knowing that it was a bird ... and then they said the eagle was going to the eagle hospital, and he had a broken wing. However, the eagle's wing damage was too great for rehabilitation and it was euthanized on arrival, Bird Treatment and Learning Center Executive Director Laura Atwood said, KTUU reported. Everybody was really excited that they said the eagle had been removed and he was going to the sanctuary, Tatela said. Were hoping for a happier ending for the eagle, but it is a jet, so theres that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the case of Sunday's plane tragedy in South Korea, the pilot of Jeju Air Flight 2216 had declared mayday after issuing the bird strike alert, said Joo Jong-wan, director of the aviation policy division at South Koreas Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. The plane skidded off the runway while landing at Muan International Airport, about 180 miles south of Seoul, and burst into flames after crashing. Joo said the plane was completely destroyed by the ensuing fire and a full investigation, that could take six months to three years, will take place. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading an American team, including Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration, that will assist South Korea in the investigation. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) An Albuquerque man is facing prison time for his role in a July 4th murder case. Juan De La Rosa pleaded guilty Monday morning to a July 2023 shooting. He and two accomplices were accused of trying to carjack Alfonso Aguilar at the Luxury Inn near Central Ave. and Louisiana Blvd. Surveillance footage showed de la Rosa, Lacey Comrier, and Joseph Griego approaching the victim, Alfonso Aguilar, who was shot in the chest. Aguilar died in the hospital days later. Death under investigation in Santa Fe County De La Rosa pled guilty to four counts including second-degree murder and armed robbery. but that plea almost got postponed on Monday after prosecutors questioned if de la Rosa understood what he was pleading to. Judge Joseph Montano ultimately accepted the plea. De La Rosa now faces up to 24 years behind bars. Hell be sentenced in the next four weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. In recent years, Ive written about the story of Balbir Singh Sodhi, a Sikh man who was murdered in Arizona in the first documented hate crime in response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The gunman who apparently mistook Sodhi for a Muslim reportedly declared during his arrest: I stand for America all the way! The bigotry Sodhi encountered has always seemed to me, at least analogous to the racist and xenophobic entitlement that Donald Trump and many of his followers express toward nonwhite people, particularly those believed to be immigrants. And now we may have another prime example of this similarity out of Colorado, where authorities have accused a white Trump supporter of attacking a reporter he suggested might not be a U.S. citizen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As The Associated Press reported: Patrick Thomas Egan, 39, was arrested Dec. 18 in Grand Junction, Colorado, after police say he followed KKCO/KJCT reporter JaRonn Alexs vehicle for around 40 miles (64 kilometers) from the Delta area. Alex told police that he believed he had been followed and attacked because he is Pacific Islander. After arriving in Grand Junction, Egan, who was driving a taxi, pulled up next to Alex at a stoplight and, according to an arrest affidavit, said something to the effect of: Are you even a U.S. citizen? This is Trumps America now! Im a Marine and I took an oath to protect this country from people like you! According to the police affidavit, the reporter drove to his news station headquarters and ran to the door, but the attacker tackled him and began to strangle him before station employees pried Egans arms loose. Egan was arrested and charged with second-degree assault, bias-motivated crimes and misdemeanor harassment. (Egans lawyer did not immediately return the APs request for comment.) Meanwhile, The New York Times reported just last week on an anonymous letter circulating in rural Oregon that called for residents to track and report nonwhite people they think might be undocumented immigrants in order to assist with Trumps mass deportation plans. Alleged incidents like these are precisely why I and others have been sounding the alarm on the MAGA movements praise for violent vigilantes, its alignment with militias and paramilitary groups, and its violent rhetoric toward immigrants. Because the natural result of a culture that relishes these things is a society in which nonwhite people, no matter their immigration status, are subject to constant suspicion and at times, outright violence at the whim of their white counterparts. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com (NewsNation) Former Allman Brothers Band member Chuck Leavell, who has been the Rolling Stones principal touring keyboardist since the 1980s, shared fond memories of the longest-living presidents musical passion and genuine kindness on NewsNation Now. He described first meeting Jimmy Carter in 1973 when the future president was still Georgias governor. While Leavell and his bandmates expected Carters gubernatorial visit to be nothing more than a quick photo-op, Carter sat with them for two hours, asking really great questions about the state of the music business in Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was such a likable human being. He really was, you know, when you were in his presence, he made you feel comfortable. He was a great listener, Leavell added, describing Carter as someone who had more than just a casual love of music. Jimmy Carter is an example of simple decency: Joe Biden Former President Jimmy Carter is not dead, despite fraudulent reports Georgia State Sen. Jimmy Carter hugs his wife, Rosalynn, at his Atlanta campaign headquaters September 15, 1966 after making a strong showing in Wednesdays primary election, September 14, 1966, in the race for the Democratic nomination for governor of Georgia. In late returns, Carter and businessman Lester Maddox were in a tight race for the runoff spot against former Gov. Ellis Arnall for the Democratic nomination. (AP Photo) FILE Former President Jimmy Carter teaches Sunday School class at Maranatha Baptist Church in his hometown, Aug. 23, 2015, in Plains, Ga. In the year since Jimmy Carter first entered home hospice care, the 39th president has celebrated his 99th birthday, enjoyed tributes to his legacy and outlived his wife of 77 years. Rosalynn Carter, who died in November 2023 after suffering from dementia, spent just a few days under hospice. (AP Photo/David Goldman, File) Visitors pass a portrait of President Jimmy Carter during a celebration of his 99th birthday held at The Carter Center in Atlanta on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Ben Gray) A lifetime friend of Carters, Leavell performed at Carter 100: A Celebration in Song, which honored the longest-living presidents centennial birthday bash. Carter passed away in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, on Sunday, Dec. 29, the Carter Center confirmed. He is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. His wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, preceded him in death on Nov. 19, 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Far-right allies of President-elect Donald Trump are continuing to stoke a raging feud with shadow president Elon Musk after the billionaire defended visas for highly skilled foreign workers. The blowup is starting to annoy not only the likes of longtime ally Steve Bannon, but Trump himself, Mediaite reported. 100 percent Trump is annoyed, a source who worked on Trumps 2024 presidential campaign told Mediaite. Theres a Chinese saying: two tigers cannot live on one mountaintop. Musk has quickly gone from tech innovator to Trumps top donor and most influential supporter. After spending a whopping $250 million to help the 78-year-old get back into office, Musk has become one of Trumps closest allies and was also tapped to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His proximity to Trump is more than ideological however. For the last two months, the Tesla founder has been renting one of the cottages on Trumps Mar-a-Lago property, just a few hundred feet away from Trumps home, The New York Times reported Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The living arrangement has given Musk incredibly close access to the president-elect. Musk has spent hours in Trumps office at Mar-a-Lago, joined phone calls with foreign leaders and sat in on personnel meetings, The Times reported. Musk is so involved that some of Trumps allies believe Musk is emerging as a shadow president, sources told Mediaite. To a man who has suggested he was anointed by God, such questioning of his rule would likely get under his skin. There was likely an allure to it in the beginning but it seemed like it could go ugly, another Trump insider said of the alliance between the president-elect and Musk. Trump is Trump. I think its just the way Trump is. Someone that is around that much and having influence would be a bother. In response to Musks growing influence, Trump maintained that he was the one in charge. No, hes not going to be president, that I can tell you, Trump said at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest on Sunday. And Im safe. You know why he cant be? He wasnt born in this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Trump has vehemently downplayed Musks role, the billionaires influence in Republican politics is hard to ignore. Earlier this month, Musk helped derail a bipartisan government spending bill, posting over 100 times against the legislation and urging Republicans to shut down the government rather than pass it. Shortly after, Trump also lambasted the bill, forcing House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., to draft a new version. Musks stance sparked criticism and speculation on both sides of the political spectrum. "The U.S. Congress this week came to an agreement to fund our government. Elon Musk, who became $200 BILLION richer since Trump was elected, objected. Are Republicans beholden to the American people? Or President Musk? This is oligarchy at work," wrote Sen. Bernie Sanders I-Vt., in a social media post. We have a president, we have a vice-president, we have a speaker. It feels like as if Elon Musk is our prime minister, said Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas in an interview on CBS. The worlds richest man is not only causing concern among Congressional Republicans, but MAGA pundits as well. Last week, Musk and his DOGE co-chair Vivek Ramaswamy ignited a GOP civil war when they publicly supported reforming the countrys H1B visa program, arguing that skilled immigrant workers are essential to innovating Americas technology and building. The comments sparked outrage among MAGAs immigration hardliners, including Steve Bannon, who said there isnt a civil war over immigrants because Musk is not tough enough. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. We havent fought these battles over years and years and years to allow American citizens of every race, ethnicity, religion, be gutted by the sociopathic overlords in Silicon Valley, Bannon said on his show War Room on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk shot back at MAGA, telling critics to take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the face, and slammed Americans abilities to work in tech. Bannon then called Musk a "toddler." Despite the outrage from his most loyal base, Trump once again sided with the tech bros. In an interview with The New York Post, the president-elect said he has always believed in the H1B program, despite having signed an executive order to restrict access to H1B visas during his first term. Two days later, MAGA influencer Laura Loomer weighed in on the controversy, slamming Musk for his influence over not only Trumps base, but Trump himself. In an interview with right wing political commentator Eric Bolling, Loomer cited Musks control over the worlds largest social platform, X, and his ability to demonetize anybody he disagrees with. I mean, essentially, what is happening and I love President Trump, Im not saying that President Trump is bought and paid for but it sounds like people are scared of crossing the king, the king of the world, Elon Musk, the monarch. Okay? Geologist Juan Manuel Garcia Ruiz still speaks with amazement about how he and his colleagues have created a proto-world in their laboratory, located just 1,500 meters from La Concha beach in the Spanish city of San Sebastian. It may sound monumental, and it is, but what they have is a small, transparent container, just three liters in size, where theyve placed a mixture of water, methane, nitrogen, and ammonia, adding electric discharges to simulate the harsh conditions of the primitive Earth. This experiment is a new iteration of the famous 1952 work by Stanley Miller, a 22-year-old American chemist who demonstrated that the basic building blocks of life could be easily created in a primordial soup. Garcia Ruiz, however, has encountered an unexpected development. Protocells have also formed in his flask structures considered to be the precursor to life itself. It is amazing, he declares. The 71-year-old Spanish researcher explains that his experiment lasted barely two weeks. Almost immediately, a thin layer formed on the surface, much like cream on milk, and the once-clear water turned a yellowish brown. The microscope images are perplexing, revealing a multitude of tiny, curvilinear structures that any observer might mistake for living organisms yet they are not. They are simply self-organized molecules. We have always approached the origin of life following the biblical text, as though there were a divine breath, a singular moment where everything becomes irreversible. What our study suggests is that it wasnt like that, but that it is a chemical evolution of millions of years, absolutely random, like subsequent biological evolution, and that it increases in complexity over time. It can lead to self-organized structures and, in some cases, to self-assembled structures, like life, Garcia Ruiz explains. These types of proto-worlds must exist on billions of planets throughout the universe. And these proto-worlds may lead to something as complex as life, or to nothing at all. Theres no intelligent design, no divine breath of life, and no fundamental reaction either, says Garcia Ruiz, a geologist from the Donostia International Physics Center. In February 1953, a twenty-something Stanley Miller wrote up his groundbreaking results in just a dozen paragraphs and changed the way humanity saw itself. He demonstrated that with three gases, water, and electric discharges, it was possible to create amino acids in a laboratory molecules that form proteins, the biological machines that constitute living matter. Juan Manuel Garcia Ruizs team replicated Millers experiment in 2021, but instead of using the original glass container, they opted for one made of Teflon. Their conclusion made headlines around the world: no building blocks of life emerged in their experiment. Silica a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen, found in glass was essential. Last year, a consortium led by Garcia Ruiz received 10 million ($10.4 million) from the European Union to investigate the role of silica in the origin of life. The new experiment not only generated amino acids but also the five nucleobases that form the core of DNA. However, the most significant breakthrough was the simultaneous appearance of protocells. Garcia Ruiz explains that these protocells are hollow vesicles that compartmentalize space, encapsulating the building blocks of life and facilitating their reactions with one another an essential step in the primordial soup of early Earth. These protocells must have also appeared in Millers experiment and in subsequent ones, but no one had looked for them until now, says Garcia Ruiz, who led the research with his German colleague Christian Jenewein. Scientists Juan Manuel Garcia Ruiz (left) and Christian Jenewein, in their laboratory at the Donostia International Physics Center in San Sebastian. DIPC Their findings suggest that life on Earth could have originated hundreds of millions of years earlier than previously believed, potentially during the Hadean period the geological era that began 4.6 billion years ago with Earths formation and ended around 4 billion years ago. Garcia Ruiz notes that their protocells form through the action of bubbling, using repeated units of hydrocyanic acid, a simple molecule composed of one hydrogen atom, one carbon atom, and one nitrogen atom. Several studies suggest that these polymers of hydrocyanic acid could lead to everything needed to create the basic building blocks of life, the geologist explains. His study was published Monday in PNAS, the journal of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. Mexican biologist Antonio Lazcano recalls that 100 years ago, Soviet scientist Aleksandr Oparin published The Origin of Life, in which he defended the hypothesis that the first organisms arose from the chemical evolution of molecules in the primordial soup of early Earth. Amid the Cold War, a young Stanley Miller built on Oparins work. The merit of Garcia Ruizs study is in following the evolution of simple molecules to the formation of complex microscopic structures within a single system, applauds Lazcano, founder of the Laboratory of the Origin of Life at Mexicos National Autonomous University (UNAM). However, Lazcano remains cautious. I would not call them protocells, because that suggests an evolutionary continuity that is far from being demonstrated, and that does not correspond to their chemical composition, he notes. They are right to write that they may have been microreactors that allowed other reactions, but we are still far from constructing a detailed and realistic sequence of evolution that led from the inorganic components and molecules of the prebiotic Earth to the first organisms, among other reasons because we still do not agree on what would be a good definition of first forms of life. Geologist Juan Manuel Garcia Ruiz and Maasai guide Lucas Sossoika on an expedition to Lake Magadi, Kenya. Javier Trueba Garcia Ruiz himself emphasizes this uncertainty. I would say that the conclusion of our work is that, today, the difference between the living and the non-living is less clear than ever, both morphologically and chemically, says the geologist, who is also an emeritus researcher at the Andalusian Institute of Earth Sciences (CSIC) in Granada, where part of the experiments were conducted. He cautions that space missions, which will soon bring back rocks from Mars, could potentially reveal amino acids, DNA nucleobases, and even these protocells, but that would not necessarily prove the existence of extraterrestrial life. Kepa Ruiz Mirazo, a philosopher of biology and expert in the origin of life and protocellular models, also applauds Garcia Ruizs excellent work. The significance of this research, beyond placing the first steps toward life in very remote times, lies in the fact that the synthesis of organic molecules in the style of Millers experiment is now accompanied by the formation of compartments with a size, morphology, and topology similar to those of a cell, notes Ruiz Mirazo, from the University of the Basque Country. It remains to be seen and I hope this group will take on the challenge of proving it whether these types of closed and hollow supramolecular structures could be coupled with prebiotic chemistry, with which to co-evolve towards truly protocellular forms of organization, establishing mechanisms for the exchange of matter and energy with their environment, says Ruiz Mirazo. From my perspective, the encapsulation of biomolecular precursors, although necessary (as the authors of the article argue), is not in itself a sufficient condition for a compartment to be considered a protocell. However, this is how science advances in all fields: the more significant an achievement, the more questions it raises. Continuing research in this area will undoubtedly broaden horizons in the search for our deepest and most distant origins, as the biological entities we are. Geologist Garcia Ruiz is preparing an expedition to Kenya in 2026, to the Rift Valley, an area he believes bears similarities to the early Earth, with alkaline lakes and abundant silica. In the meantime, his team will continue experimenting with Millers classic approach, exploring new variations changing the temperature and adding ingredients like sulfur, phosphorus, and carbon monoxide. We are going to extend the time and start cooking, to see what happens, he says. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Saundra Bishop has many memories inside the idyllic pink, craftsman-styled Alpha Kappa Alpha house in Los Angeles. The space wasnt just a place where her mother and other members of the Alpha Gamma Omega graduate chapter of the historically Black sorority met, it was also a community hub. In fact, I had my sweet 16 party there, she fondly recalled. Bishops mother joined the graduate chapter of the sorority when the family moved to the city in the 1950s. In 1960, members of the chapter purchased the home in the historic West Adams neighborhood to have a place to host their meetings and other events. That was the place where people could rent and come and have their parties and nice things [if] they didnt want to go to the hotels, she added. It was purchased because in Los Angeles, and other places, of course, at that time there were no meeting spaces for African Americans specifically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Black organizations at the time were meeting at the homes of members. But the house could fit about 150 people. Today, the house is a historic site that has not only served Alpha Kappa Alpha members, but also served as a communal hub hosting baby showers, bridal showers, youth programs and voter forums and a polling place. According to members, Alpha Gamma Omega was the first of the sororitys graduate chapters to be chartered west of the Rocky Mountains. And, they report, it remains one of the few chapters to own a home in the western United States. In 2024, the house was one of 30 sites awarded a grant by the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The fund, which was created in 2017, is designed to aid in preservation efforts for places that have had a significant impact on Black communities and help to diversify public perception of American history. Bishop has followed in her mothers footsteps and has been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha for nearly three decades. She also works as the chairman for the chapters nonprofit arm, the Ivy Heritage Foundation Inc., which was created to facilitate community programming and award scholarships. The nonprofit was awarded $100,000 on behalf of the sorority chapter by the Action Fund to modernize the home, which was originally built in 1911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chapter members secured the down payment for the home through a capital campaign in the 1950s that was mostly supported by members and their loved ones. At that time there were no philanthropic organizations or donors that would have donated to that, Bishop said, noting that plaques inside the home recognize the original donors. The mortgage for the sorority house was paid off by 1974. Membership dues have long incorporated the cost of utilities and other maintenance needs for the home, but Bishop said these dues dont cover more expensive projects. For example, because of the age of the home, many of its mechanical systems need to be brought up to code, she said. The sorority chapter plans to use the grant money from the Action Fund to update plumbing, install fire and life safety systems, put in an air conditioning system, and more. Tiffany Tolbert, senior director of preservation at the Action Fund, said the organization originally received roughly 600 to 700 grant applications for 2024. We wanted to make sure that we are preserving all of those places that are synonymous to Black history and culture, and obviously our Divine 9 is a part of that, she said. Im not just speaking as an AKA, but theyve contributed to our communities and our culture, [and] to the Civil Rights Movement. They continue to be active in political activism, as we recently saw in the latest election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its really preserving these places so that they can continue to inspire future generations, but also tell the story so people recognize the culture of African Americans, Tolbert added. The post How Alpha Kappa Alpha Helped Preserve a Historic LA Home appeared first on Capital B News. Altafiber, formerly Cincinnati Bell, could be sold next year, according to a recent report from Bloomberg. Sale price could exceed $5 billion Macquarie Group Limited, which owns the more than 150-year-old telecom with headquarters Downtown, is weighing the sale of Altafiber to another internet service provider or related business in a deal that could fetch more than $5 billion, Bloomberg reported, citing unnamed sources. Altafiber, formerly Cincinnati Bell, is headquartered in the Atrium Two building in downtown Cincinnati. The investment banking firm that owns the Cincinnati-based telecom is considering selling the company, according to recent reports. Macquarie, an Australian-based international investment bank, and Altafiber both declined an Enquirer reporter's request for comment. Altafiber could begin soliciting offers next year Macquarie could begin soliciting offers for Altafiber as early as next year, according to the Bloomberg report. Advertisement Advertisement Macquarie purchased Cincinnati Bell in 2021 and announced the company would begin doing business as Altafiber the next year. By the end of 2023, Altafiber had revenue of $1.8 billion and had expanded its fiber network to approximately 760,000 addresses in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. It also provides service in Hawaii under the brand Hawaiian Telcom. The company has about 1,400 local employees, according to a spokesman. Telecom mergers and acquisitions on the rise Potential buyers could be among a slew of companies and private equity firms jockeying for position in the U.S. broadband market, including Verizon and T-Mobile. In April, T-Mobile announced it would invest $950 million to purchase fiber internet provider Lumos, in a joint venture with EQT, a global investment firm based in Sweden. Advertisement Advertisement In September, Verizon announced it was buying Frontier Communications in a nearly $20 billion cash-and-debt deal to expand its fiber internet network. This story was updated to add a gallery. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Altafiber sale could exceed $5B, according to report MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Neighbors in Montgomery County said former President Jimmy Carter accomplished a lot in his 100 years of life. They said he was a role model whose work inspired millions around the world. Just an amazing man, Montgomery County resident Helen Dalton said. We were very lucky. First and foremost a person of faith: DC church honors President Jimmy Carters legacy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, many neighbors in the county reflected on the life of the 39th president of the United States. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Jimmy Carter is the fact that he always put service at the forefront of everything that he did, Montgomery County resident Nafees Chowdhury said. Even in his presidency, it was a very moral and righteous presidency. They said he achieved many great things during his four years in the Oval Office. How much he got done for this country, Dalton said. The weapons systems, human rights and around the globe freeing thousands of political prisoners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chowdhury also continued to praise the late former president. Whether you agreed or disagreed with him, you could not question the values that underpinned his judgment, Chowdhury said. But they said the work he did after leaving office in 1981 is what they admire most. His post-presidency is one of the most epic post-presidencies in American history, Chowdhury said. One in which he always put the service toward humanity at the forefront of everything that he did, and for that as a nation, we should be incredibly grateful. Hundreds sign condolence book to honor President Carter They said Carter is the epitome of a servant leader because he dedicated his life to helping others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think President Carter will be remembered for most for his humanity, Chowdhury said. And for his service to humanity. I think his legacy is that he was someone to be emulated, definitely, Dalton said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Ambulances will resume bringing patients to Duke University Hospital on New Years Eve, five days after a water pipe burst and flooded the emergency department. EMS workers and nearby hospitals were bracing for several more days of 911 patients being rerouted, but parts of the Duke Hospital ER reopened Monday afternoon and the diversion protocol was lifted by 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. We extend our heart-felt thanks to area emergency medical services and neighboring hospitals that provided support over these past days, Duke Health officials said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thomas Owens, chief operating officer for Duke University Health System, said in an interview that he believed ER patients received good care despite the circumstances. Were extraordinarily grateful to our team, who have just been remarkable and inspiring in the way theyve come together: to be creative, to be innovative, to support each other, to make sure were delivering outstanding care and to work through this over a holiday period, Owens said. Incoming emergency room patients are being redirected to other nearby hospitals. What happened inside Duke ER when pipe burst? The hospital on Erwin Road, which receives the most 911 patients in Durham, had a 12-inch chilled water pipe burst shortly before midnight Thursday, Dec. 26. Tens of thousands of gallons of water poured through the ceilings and down the walls, forcing an evacuation and destroying some equipment and infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ER and adjacent areas on the first floor flooded, leading staff to move patients to emptier parts of the hospital with a lot of creativity, Owens said. Ambulances were told not to bring patients, and the hospital set up a triage center for people arriving at the ER on their own. Our team responded exactly the way wed hoped: they put our patients first, Owens said. Chilled water lines help control temperatures and operate in a closed loop outside the drinking water supply. Owens said they are investigating why the pipe burst, and hope to have an answer next week. Owens said they expect the damage will cost tens of millions of dollars. Duke University Hospital is Durhams Level I trauma center. Similar facilities in Raleigh and Chapel Hill are taking patients after Dukes emergency department flooded on Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. Significant damage on first floor Around 350 recovery and construction experts were brought in to dry things out, remove damaged ceiling tiles and walls, test potentially damaged equipment, make drywall repairs and repaint, Owens said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our prioritization was initially on the areas that we dont have duplication of, so the emergency department proper, Owens said. Of the hospitals 76 ER beds, 16 were back in service at noon Monday. The front entrance and waiting room were also open, and many patients were being treated in other parts of the hospital. The radiology area, where X-rays and other imaging are carried out, had significant damage, officials said Monday. Most of the services the ER relies upon have temporarily shifted to elsewhere in Dukes sprawling network of health care facilities. The hospital said it began accepting some patients from ambulances on Monday. That included children, and people suffering from strokes and serious heart attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trauma care for patients with life-threatening injuries, such as from a car crash, gunshot wound or serious fall was the last area to reopen. Owens said trauma care is perhaps the most complicated, and requires not only a large treatment area, but also access to other key services very rapidly. Where patients are being treated Duke Health urged people to seek care elsewhere after the pipe burst, and hospitals throughout the Triangle absorbed patients from Durham. Chief paramedic Gordon Smith said Duke University Hospital typically receives around 80% of patients transported by Durham County ambulances. Durham EMS has seen no appreciable, significant difference in any of our response times or hospital times, oddly, Smith said Monday while reviewing preliminary data. I do suspect, however, that was due to the holiday weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durham EMS has averaged close to 700 patient transports a week in 2024, but it had 588 transports the week ending Dec. 29. The facility is a Level I trauma center, the highest possible designation, meaning its staff can provide complex specialty care for life-threatening injuries. It took over 100 new patients from Monday to Thursday, but others were driven across the Triangle: Other trauma centers: The region has two other Level I trauma centers: UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill and the WakeMed flagship in Raleigh. Also receiving patients: Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, UNC Hospitals Hillsborough and WakeMed Brier Creek Healthplex all have their own emergency rooms taking rerouted patients. The Durham VA Medical Center also received transports. Cleanup from flooding in the hallways and front entrance of the Emergency Department at Duke University Hospital in Durham on Saturday, December 28, 2024. UNC Health, WakeMed hospitals absorbing the strain UNC Health saw a 20% to 30% increase in ER volume at its hospitals in Chapel Hill and Hillsborough, spokesperson Alan Wolf said Monday, prompting them to call in extra staff. I think everyone was grateful that folks were willing to come in, especially around the holidays, Wolf said. Everyone from physicians and nurses, to the folks that clean the rooms, the food service folks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our local hospital systems always work together to help meet each others needs, Kristin Kelly, spokesperson for WakeMed, said in an email. Wolf said hospitalizations had begun to tick up anyway as respiratory illnesses spread this cold and flu season. This is one of the reasons were fortunate to live in this area with choices for health care, Wolf said. All the hospitals step in when theres a situation like this and help each other out. OGDENSBURG, N.Y. (WWTI) One person is being helped after a Sunday evening fire in St. Lawrence County. Volunteers from the Central and Northern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided immediate emergency aid to one person after a fire on the Pray Road in Ogdensburg. Water main repair on Loomus Drive in Watertown set for today The Red Cross provided financial assistance which can be used for necessities such as shelter, food, and clothing, to one adult. Volunteers also offered emotional support and comfort kits containing personal care items. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the coming days, Red Cross staff and volunteers will remain available to help those affected by the fire as they navigate the road to recovery. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com. By Nidal al-Mughrabi, Maytaal Angel and Ali Sawafta CAIRO/JERUSALEM/RAMALLAH (Reuters) -Once muscular and strong, Palestinian bodybuilder Moazaz Obaiyats nine-month spell in Israeli custody left him unable to walk unaided upon his release in July. Then, in an October pre-dawn raid on his home, soldiers detained him again. Before being re-arrested, the 37-year-old father of five was diagnosed with severe PTSD by Bethlehem Psychiatric Hospital, related to his time at Israel's remote Ktz'iot prison, according to medical notes seen by Reuters from the hospital, a public clinic in the occupied West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The notes said Obaiyat was subjected to "physical and psychological violence and torture" in prison and described symptoms including severe anxiety, withdrawal from his family and avoidance of discussion of traumatic events and current affairs. Alleged abuses and psychological harm to Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons and camps are in renewed focus amid stepped-up efforts in December by international mediators to secure a ceasefire that could see the release of thousands of inmates detained during the Gaza war and before, in return for Israeli hostages held by the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza. In the event of the release of detainees in any future deal, many will require long-term medical care to recover from the physical and psychological abuse they have endured, said Qadoura Fares, head of the Palestinian Commission for Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs, a government body in the West Bank. Fares said he was aware of Obaiyats case. For this story, Reuters spoke to four Palestinian men detained by Israel since the wars outbreak after the Hamas attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. All were held for months, accused of affiliating with an illegal organisation, and released without being formally charged or convicted of any crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All described lasting psychological scars they attributed to abuses including beatings, sleep and food deprivation and prolonged restraint in stress positions during their time inside. Reuters could not independently verify the conditions in which they were held. Their accounts are consistent with multiple investigations by human rights groups that reported grave abuses of Palestinians in Israeli detention. An investigation published by the United Nations human rights office in August described substantiated reports of widespread "torture, sexual assault and rape, amid atrocious inhumane conditions" in prisons since the war began. The U.N. office has also said Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks could amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. The White House has called the reports of torture, rape and abuse in Israel's prisons deeply concerning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to Reuters questions, the Israeli military said it was investigating several cases of alleged abuse of Gazan detainees by military personnel but categorically rejected allegations of systematic abuse within its detention facilities. The military declined to comment on individual cases. The Israel Prison Service (IPS), which falls under hard-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and the country's internal security service said they were not in a position to comment on individual cases. Terrorists in Israeli prisons are granted supervised living conditions and accommodations appropriate for criminals, Ben Gvirs office said in response to Reuters questions, adding that the facilities operate in accordance with the law. "The 'summer camp' is over," Ben Gvir's office said. Tal Steiner, executive director of the Israeli rights group Public Committee Against Torture in Israel (PCATI), said the symptoms the men recounted were common and can echo through victims lifetimes, often shattering their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Torture in Israeli prisons has exploded since October 7. It will have and already has had a devastating effect on Palestinian society," said Steiner. Speaking from his hospital bed in July, a severely emaciated Obaiyat called the treatment of himself and fellow prisoners "disgusting," showing scars on his wasted legs and describing isolation, hunger, handcuffs and abuse with metal rods, without giving details. Photos of Obaiyat taken before his incarceration show a powerfully-built man. On Dec. 19, Israels High Court ordered the state to answer a petition brought by rights groups about the lack of adequate food for Palestinian prisoners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel has also reported mistreatment of some of the 251 of its citizens taken captive to Gaza after the Hamas attacks. A report by the Israeli Health Ministry, published on Saturday said hostages were subjected to torture, including sexual and psychological abuse. Hamas has repeatedly denied abuse of the hostages. WITHOUT CHARGE Obaiyat is currently being held in a small detention centre in Etzion, south of Bethlehem, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, an advocacy group. He is being held for six months under "administrative detention", a form of incarceration without charge or trial, and the official reason for his arrest is unknown, the group said. Israels military, internal security service and prison service did not respond to questions about his specific case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PCATI said at least 56 Palestinians had died in custody during the war, compared to just one or two annually in the years preceding the conflict. Israels military said it launches criminal investigations of all deaths of Palestinians in its custody. Palestinian prisoner numbers have at least doubled in Israel and the West Bank to more than 10,000 during the war, PCATI estimates, based on court documents and data obtained through freedom of information requests. Through the course of the war, around 6,000 Gazans have been incarcerated, the Israeli military said in response to a query from Reuters. Unlike Palestinians from the West Bank who are held under military law, Palestinians from Gaza are held in Israel under its Unlawful Combatants Law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law has been used to hold people incommunicado, deny them their rights as prisoners of war or as prisoners under military occupation, and incarcerate them for extended periods without charge or trial, according to Professor Neve Gordon, an Israeli scholar who specialises in human rights and international law at London's Queen Mary University. The Palestinian Prisoners Club likened the detentions to forced disappearance. Israel's prison service declined to comment on prisoner numbers and deaths. SDE TEIMAN CAMP Fadi Ayman Mohammad Radi, 21, a former engineering student from Khan Younis, Gaza, was one of a couple dozen Palestinians released at the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza on Aug. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Radi described struggling to stretch out his limbs after being cuffed and chained for four months at Israel's Sde Teiman military detention camp, officially a temporary prisoner sorting facility. "They didn't interrogate us, they destroyed us," said Radi. Located in the Negev desert, Sde Teiman has been the site of grave abuses including rape, according to allegations by whistleblowers among the camps guards. Israel is currently investigating what the U.N called "a particularly gruesome case" of alleged sexual abuse at Sde Teiman in which five soldiers are accused of anally penetrating a detainee with a rod that punctured his internal organs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Radi said he was beaten repeatedly and arbitrarily, permanently restrained and blindfolded, hung up in stress positions and forced to sit on the floor almost constantly without moving. At one point, he said he was deprived of sleep for five consecutive days in a space he said Israeli soldiers called the disco room,' subjected to loud music. He did not describe sexual violence. Radi said he found it difficult to sleep and that even talking about his ordeal made him relive it. "Every time I say the words, I visualise the torture, said Radi, who was arrested by Israeli soldiers in Gaza on March 4. Reuters could not independently verify his story. The Israeli military said it was unable to comment, saying it could not find Radi's files because Reuters was unable to provide his ID number. Despite a government decision to phase out Sde Teiman, the camp is still operational, PCATI said. OFER AND KTZIOT Widespread abuses have also been reported at more established facilities, such as the Ktziot prison, also in the Negev, and Ofer military camp, south of Ramallah in the West Bank. After collating evidence and testimony from 55 former Palestinian prisoners, Israeli rights group B'Tselem earlier this year released a report accusing Israel of deliberately turning the prison system into a 'network of torture camps'. Using emergency legislation introduced after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, Ben Gvir, the hardline minister, ordered conditions be downgraded for 'security prisoners', a category almost entirely comprising Palestinians. Human rights scholar Gordon likened what he said was the use of torture in Israel's prisons to terrorism. "Terrorism usually is an act that's limited in the number of people directly impacted, but the psychosocial effect is dramatic. Its the same with torture," said Gordon, who co-edited a book on abuses in the Israeli prison system. (Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrab in Cairo, Maytaal Angel in Jerusalem and Ali Sawafta in Ramallah; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel) LOS ANGELES (AP) Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have reached a divorce settlement, ending one of the longest and most contentious divorces in Hollywood history but not every legal issue between the two. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Scott J. Nord approved the agreement Tuesday, a day after Jolie and Pitt signed off on it. More than eight years ago, Angelina filed for divorce from Mr. Pitt, Jolie's attorney, James Simon, said in a statement. She and the children left all of the properties they had shared with Mr. Pitt, and since that time she has focused on finding peace and healing for their family. This is just one part of a long ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing says they give up the right to any future spousal financial support, but gives no other details. An email to Pitt's attorney seeking comment was not immediately answered. Jolie, 49, and Pitt, 61, were among Hollywoods most prominent pairings for 12 years, two of them as a married couple. The Oscar winners have six children together. Jolie filed for divorce in 2016, after a private jet flight from Europe during which she said Pitt physically abused her and their children. The FBI and child services officials investigated Pitt's actions on the flight. Two months later the FBI released a statement saying it would not investigate further, and the U.S. attorney did not bring charges. A heavily redacted FBI report obtained by The Associated Press in 2022 said that an agent provided a probable cause statement to prosecutors on Pitt, but that after discussing the merits, it was agreed by all parties that criminal charges would not be pursued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The document said Jolie was personally conflicted" about supporting charges, and in a later court filing she said she opted not to push for them for the sake of the family. A source familiar with the child services inquiry told the AP in 2016 that the child services investigation was closed without a finding of abuse. A judge in 2019 declared Jolie and Pitt divorced and single, but the splitting of assets and child custody needed to be settled separately. Both have been free to marry again since that declaration, but neither has. The marriage was the third for Jolie, who was previously married to Jonny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton, and the second for Pitt, who was previously wed to Jennifer Aniston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after, a private judge that the two had hired to handle the case reached a decision that included equal custody of their children, but Jolie filed to have him removed from the case over an unreported conflict of interest. An appeals court agreed, removing the judge and vacating his decision. The couple had to start the process over. During the long divorce fight, four of their children became adults, negating the need for a custody agreement for them. The only minors that remain are 16-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne. The court will maintain jurisdiction over the child custody even with the finalized agreement, as it does in all California cases. In June, one of their daughters, then known as Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, successfully petitioned to remove Pitt's name from hers. The couple's use of private judges an increasingly common move among splitting celebrities in recent years kept the details of the divorce largely under wraps. There had been no official court actions in the case in nearly a year, and no indication that the two were near agreement. Some elements of their disputes, however, have been revealed through a separate lawsuit filed by Pitt over Jolie's sale of her half of a French winery they owned. Pitt had wanted to buy her half of the winery, Chateau Miraval, and said she abandoned their negotiations and sold her part to the Tenute del Mondo wine group. Pitt said it was a vindictive and unlawful move that should not have been made without his consent and ruined a private space that had been a second home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jolie and her attorneys said that Pitt had demanded she sign a wide-ranging non-disclosure agreement about him as part of the proposed deal that was an attempt to cover up his abuse of her and the children. The divorce agreement does not affect the winery lawsuit, where the legal battle between the two stars could continue. Publicly, both Pitt and Jolie have been extremely tight-lipped on everything surrounding their split, despite robust promotional tours for various projects. Pitt said in a 2017 interview with GQ that he had had a drinking problem at the time of the plane incident and the split, but had since become sober and was going to therapy. He has not defended his behavior on the family flight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both were among the most elite stars in film when they began dating in 2004, after co-starring as hitman-and-hitwoman spouses in Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and remained atop the Hollywood A-list throughout their coupling. The star of Maleficent and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Jolie won an Oscar for her performance in 1999s Girl, Interrupted. Pitt, the star of Fight Club and Inglourious Basterds, thrived as both actor and producer after the split. He won his own Academy Award for 2019s Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood, the crowning achievement in an awards season that some in media framed as a redemption and brought major public affection for him. Jolie kept a less visible profile in the years since the divorce, though she directed several films and appeared in several more while trying to focus on raising the children. She has very much returned to the Oscar conversation this year for her portrayal of the legendary soprano Maria Callas in Maria. Aftermath of fire in Manila, the Philippines Xinhua) 19:31, December 31, 2024 An investigator from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) works at a burnt home in Manila, the Philippines, Dec. 31, 2024. The fire killed five children trapped inside their burning home on Monday night. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) Charred belongings are seen inside a burnt room in Manila, the Philippines, Dec. 31, 2024. The fire killed five children trapped inside their burning home on Monday night. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) (Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Kou Jie) In the time it takes to read the headline of this story, cybercriminals around the world will have attempted more than 3,000 cyberattacks. They will target both famous and anonymous users across various platforms, as well as small businesses from Buenos Aires to Merida, and major corporations in San Francisco and Hong Kong. Public institutions, including hospitals and government ministries, will also be at risk. Three main forces will drive these attacks: espionage, ideology, and financial gain. In 2024, cybercrime reached unprecedented levels, with losses totaling 10 billion ($10.4 billion) double the amount of the previous year. Cybercrime has now become the third-largest global economy, following only the United States and China. By the end of 2024, it has solidified its position as an unstoppable force, with one in five crimes worldwide being committed online. In Spain alone, 25% of all reported crimes occurred on the internet in 2024, with more than 80% of those being scams. The trend is expected to continue, with the Civil Guards Cybersecurity Coordination predicting that complaints will rise to 150,000 in 2025. These figures have positioned Spain as the fifth most affected country globally, with a total of 58 major ransomware attacks malicious programs designed to hijack data and disrupt online services recorded in the first half of 2024. This marks a 38% increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to a report by cybersecurity firm S21sec. The year 2024 has also seen another alarming milestone: the largest ransom payment ever made to cybercriminals to regain control of a companys systems. The payment was 72 million ($75 million), nearly double the previous highest known ransom, at least publicly, as reported by ThreatLabz, although the targeted company remains unidentified. While exact statistics on how many organizations pay ransoms are hard to come by, security firm Veeam estimates that 76% of those affected opt to pay the demanded amounts. In this environment, no one appears to be safe from cyber threats. Cyberattackers are reinventing themselves every year and adapting to new trends, explains Angela Garcia, a helpline technician at Spains National Institute of Cybersecurity (INCIBE). The type of attack we register changes depending on the time of year. Now, in December, during the holiday season, we see a lot of fraud related to online purchases or fraudulent virtual stores. The expert further explains that social engineering remains the most common method used to commit cybercrimes. This technique manipulates individuals into revealing confidential information or performing actions such as clicking on malicious links or downloading infected files. Cybercriminals exploit trust, curiosity, or fear to steal information, which ultimately leads to financial gain. The most common example is phishing, where a user receives fake emails from individuals posing as legitimate companies like Google or a bank or even as friends or family members, in an effort to steal passwords or, in some cases, money. Reinvention Marc Rivero, a senior researcher at digital security firm Kaspersky, points out that 2024 has been marked by a surge in credential theft. Most commonly, criminals use malware that steals passwords stored in the users browser or computer, he explains. These stolen credentials are then used months later to orchestrate more sophisticated attacks on larger organizations. Imagine an employee using corporate credentials on a personal computer. The credentials are stolen without the employee realizing it and later used to attack their company, Rivero explains. Garcia points out that cybercriminals have two main objectives: to steal data or money. According to the expert, stealing data will ultimately lead to financial gain, either because the data will be sold on the black market or used for other types of fraud, in which the victim will suffer some kind of financial loss. Spanish companies invest around 1.2 billion in cybersecurity. However, theres a disparity: 90% of this spending comes from large companies, while small and medium-sized enterprises make minimal investments, leaving them vulnerable to attacks. According to the ThreatLabz report, the industrial manufacturing sector has been the most targeted this year, followed by healthcare and technology sectors critical industries that have, in some cases, experienced severe operational disruptions, even leading to total work stoppage. The energy sector, in particular, has seen a sharp increase in attacks, especially in Europe and the United States, as its valuable data makes it a strategic target. One notable example occurred in September, when energy company Repsol suffered a cyberattack on its electricity and gas customer database in Spain. Another case, in May, saw Iberdrola leak the personal information of 850,000 customers in Spain. In Mexico, a report in April revealed that 39% of cyber threats targeted energy companies, with the trend also growing across Latin America throughout the year. AI boosting cyberattacks Artificial intelligence has become a crucial player in the evolution of cybercrime. Its role has been to perfect how the message reaches the victim, says Rivero. In essence, AI has helped tailor attacks to their specific target audience, making scams more credible and almost personalized. AI has refined existing techniques, Rivero adds. Garcia notes that AI has also advanced cybercriminals ability to impersonate voices, a method known as vishing that gained prominence in 2024. This technique is used to trick users into granting hackers access to corporate environments, allowing them to extract sensitive data or infect computers with malware. Looking ahead, this issue is expected to worsen. By 2025, generative AI is likely to become even more integrated into cyberattacks, enabling criminals to craft emails with perfect grammar and spelling and use voice cloning with local accents. These advancements will boost the credibility of scams and likely increase their success rate. A Zscaler report predicts that ransomware attacks targeting high-value, multi-million-dollar companies will rise, with criminals seeking larger ransoms from specific, high-value targets. Virtual retailing is expected to decline. The health sector is another prime target, as these organizations handle sensitive and valuable data. Rivero warns that zero-day vulnerabilities new system flaws that manufacturers havent yet patched will continue to be exploited. They have taken advantage of these a lot and will keep doing so, he explains. As cybercriminals continuously improve their attack techniques, cybersecurity experts are also advancing their defenses. The most effective way is to maintain regular and up-to-date security patches. Changing and rotating passwords is also a good method to mitigate threats, and training is essential, says Rivero. He believes theres still much work to be done on prevention. Taking care of our computer systems is just as important as taking care of our bodies doing exercise, he concludes. Garcia emphasizes a more basic, yet crucial, approach: common sense. If we stop to read the information were being shown or think about what were hearing or reading, we could avoid many frauds. We must learn to be critical of the information we receive, she advises. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition It wasn't midnight but the clock struck 12. There wasn't a ball drop; instead, 1,000 balloons falling from the ceiling had over 300 children and their parents shouting, "Happy New Year." The Stone Chalet Bed and Breakfast Inn, located just minutes outside the University of Michigan campus, hosted its third annual Noon Year's Eve party. The free event was partnered with FIT4MOM Ann Arbor, a fitness group for mothers. More: How snowy will it get for New Year's Eve? What to know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cinderella theme for the party saw attendees dressed from princesses and princes to other well-known characters, like Super Mario and Spider-Man. Cinderella herself even made an appearance, posing for photos with the children. Daisy Howlind, co-owner of the Stone Chalet, started the event with a friend at a preschool until the COVID-19 pandemic began. When Howlind and her husband purchased the property in 2022, she wanted to bring the event to her establishment. "I wanted to (host) an adult event originally," Howlind said, "but it was just kinda risky with (having) the musicians and children. And then with food, and I didn't know if we'd have enough attendants, so I have really good success with the family-kid events in Ann Arbor." Daisy Howlind, 36, of Ann Arbor, helps her niece Koral Berger, with the crown she decorated, while Liana Howlind-Zhang, 6, of Ann Arbor, looks on during the Noon Years Eve Party Balloon Drop, a free family event put on by FIT4MOM Ann Arbor and Enchanted Inn and Events at the Stone Chalet in Ann Arbor, Mich., Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Howlind owns and operates the Stone Chalet. Before becoming a co-owner of FIT4MOM, Monica Olide attended the event for the first time last year. When she officially took over in May, she already had it predetermined to keep the tradition going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's great, not only for ourselves but also, obviously, for the kids," Olide said. "As you can see, it's a lot of big community that comes through so it's really good." More: Study: Michigan is pizza capital of the US., but is it the pizza capital of the world? More: From Trump to transit, he made you mad, and made you think | Opinion Year In Review Dressed as a prince, accompanied by his 9-year-old daughter dressed in a black, sparkling outfit described as a "New Year's Eve princess," Vincent Jonna was enjoying his first time at the event. "It's really nice," Jonna, 45, of Ann Arbor, said. "It's energetic and creative and fun for getting the community together." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Izzy was more focused on the snacks. Jonna enjoyed the idea of creating a tradition for children to celebrate the holiday earlier in the day. "This is great because we don't want them up late," he said. "Now they get to do something festive for the new year and we get to go out and have fun later in the night." Eugenia Pituch, 34, walks in with her daughter Eleanor, 3, who is dressed as Cinderella for the Noon Years Eve Party Balloon Drop , a free family event put on by FIT4MOM Ann Arbor and Enchanted Inn and Events at the Stone Chalet in Ann Arbor, Mich., Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Howlind said she hopes that by continuing to host events the community will think about her establishment when it comes to more significant moments in their lives. "People don't know about the Chalet that much. And I want people to start really knowing it," Howlind said. "So if they have a wedding, a birthday, a celebration of like, they just kinda think about us automatically, kinda like how they do Zingerman's." This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: New tradition creates children's New Year's Eve celebration TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Back in October, the International Longshoremens Association went on strike for three days. It temporarily paralyzed 36 ports along the East and Gulf coasts. Those ports, including the Port of Tampa Bay, reopened days after a tentative deal was reached, but it expires on January 15. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side The underlying issues still remain if a new deal isnt reached. This could have major implications across the country, state, and even locally in Tampa Bay, in the matter of weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dockworkers along the East and Gulf coasts had demanded a fair contract, higher pay, and to stop port automation. Pinellas County man dies after fleeing from deputies, crashing vehicle The ILA is fighting for respect, appreciation, and fairness in a world in which corporations are dead set on replacing hard-working people with automation, said Nicholas Difresco, President of ILA Local1691 Clerks and Checkers. Three days later, the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance said both sides reached a tentative agreement on pay and agreed to extend their current contract until January 15. However, as that deadline approaches, a new deal will need to be reached, or another strike could begin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So both sides are doing whats called priming and anchoring, trying to get the other side to go as high or as low as they want them to, said Thomas Fellows, workforce commentator. Fellows said if a deal is not met by the 15th, consumers could see serious supply chain disruption in early February. Were talking about: fuel, construction material, and agricultural products. Port Tampa Bay is extremely important to Tampa Bay because it serves as a critical gateway for imports and exports, Fellows said. The union workers then had called it a fight for American workers and that so-called fight could soon begin again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were protecting jobs, Difresco said. Were protecting our families, the communities that we work for, because it can happen to anybody else and wages is second. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Since the 2023 legislative session, at least seven cities or counties in Nevada have adopted new ordinances or expanded existing ones that in some form criminalize unhoused folks from sleeping or camping. (Photo: Ronda Churchill/Nevada Current) Well before the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a federal court ruling that prevented cities from punishing unhoused people and paved the way for a national rise in anti-homeless camping bans, Nevada lawmakers considered putting its own limits on how cities respond to homelessness. Senate Bill 155 sought to prohibit counties from enacting and enforcing laws that punish unhoused folks from engaging in life-sustaining activities while Senate Bill 142, deemed the Homeless Persons Bill of Rights, proposed giving unhoused people the right to sue if their rights were violated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SB 142 died in committee after being criticized by local officials and lobbyists, and SB 155 was heavily amended to reduce or eliminate fines and fees on an unhoused person provided they complete a court program. Since the 2023 session, at least seven cities or counties in Nevada have adopted new ordinances or expanded existing ones that in some form criminalize unhoused folks from sleeping or camping. The cities of Reno, Las Vegas, Henderson and Sparks along with Clark, Washoe and Nye counties have passed or expanded various punitive measures to restrict where those experiencing homelessness can sleep or camp. State Sen. James Ohrenschall, who sponsored the law to prevent local governments from enacting camping bans, said while he thinks the legislation that did pass was still a good bill that will help people, I believe in the original version of the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think there should be anti-camping ordinances, he said. I dont think it solves the problem of trying to get people housing. I think those ordinances are counterproductive. He hopes the 2025 Legislation Session will look at increasing investments in homeless services, but in terms of whether there will be something like the language in the original version of SB 155, more conversations need to happen. Former state Sen. Dallas Harris, the sponsor of a Homeless Persons Bill of Rights, said she is still trying to reconcile the fact that local officials were arguing there was no need for her legislation yet they were super nervous about the idea of it being passed. When asked if she thought people who are experiencing homelessness in Nevada have the same rights as anyone else, Harris said she didnt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A right is not a right without the ability to enforce it, she said. Does a homeless person have the ability that I mean, in actuality access to the courts, to be able to go and fight a ticket that they felt was unfairly given? Harris is convinced that in the vast majority of cases, the answer is no. Beds 17 miles away, maybe It was shortly after midnight when officers with the Henderson Police Department saw a woman who was unhoused and sleeping under a blanket next to an auto supply store on Lake Mead Parkway. Officers recognized the 51-year-old woman from issuing her a warning two months earlier for violating Hendersons camping ban, according to a Dec. 28, 2023, police report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Henderson passed its camping ban in June 2023. From August 2023 to September 2024, the Henderson Police Department issued 150 citations or arrests among 99 people for camping or sleeping in a public right of way. Data analyzed by Nevada Current showed the 51-year-old woman was arrested or cited six times during that period for violating the camping ban. The second time was Dec. 28 at 12:30 a.m. Because officers had previously warned her about sleeping on the sidewalk and a check of shelter beds revealed there were over 300 beds available, she was cited and told she had two hours to gather her belongings and move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email to the Current, the Henderson Police Department said officers dont typically transport to shelters, as the shelters are all located out of Hendersons jurisdiction. Though its not normal practice for our officers it is possible for a courtesy transport to be provided if a supervisor approves it. Henderson officers check a City of Las Vegas website to determine what shelters have available beds. I dont think there should be anti-camping ordinances...I dont think it solves the problem of trying to get people housing. I think those ordinances are counterproductive. State. Sen. James Ohrenschall Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Las Vegas has since stopped updating the website as mid-November after the city amended its camping ban to enforce the ordinance regardless of bed availability. The police report doesnt note where the 300 beds are available but its likely the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center in Downtown Las Vegas, which accepts entry 24/7 and offers a sleeping mat. If the woman wanted to make the 17-mile trek to the courtyard in the wee hours of that December morning when she was cited last year, it is a two hour bus ride or about a six hour walk. She remained in Henderson. Nearly three hours later, a different officer saw her sleeping in the same spot. In the report, he indicated he knows she was cited earlier in the evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was arrested and booked at Henderson Detention Center. The report doesnt say how long she remained in detention. Another police report indicates she was arrested the following night for sleeping outside at the same Henderson auto supply store. Rights that we all hold When asked why legislative efforts to prevent cities from criminalizing the unhoused failed in 2023, Harris said in her honest assessment is because homeless people dont vote. There were not enough of my colleagues who were willing to make a statement and stand for homeless people and take what might be a hit, unfairly so, of course, based upon this idea that homeless encampments would sprout up, or whatever the cost that they felt might be associated with supporting what I thought was a fairly simple piece of legislation, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SB 142, the legislation Harris had sponsored that year, sought to enshrine the Homeless Persons Bill of Rights in state law to ensure that a person experiencing homelessness has the same rights as everyone else. The initial version of the bill said people had a reasonable expectation of privacy in his or her personal property and specified that an unhoused individual could bring a civil action lawsuit if those rights were violated. No matter your housing status, you shouldnt face discrimination with respect to your use of public spaces, Harris said in an interview. These are rights that we all hold, regardless of our housing status or not. Its sad that simply trying to state that really put our government, our local governments, on edge. That should make all Nevadans a bit nervous. Harris removed the section on civil actions lawsuits and added a new section that said homeless persons are entitled to all of the remedies available under state and federal law to enforce the rights afforded to any other resident of this state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeff Rogan, a lobbyist for Clark County who testified in neutral on the bill in light of the amendment during a legislative hearing, said at the time the county opposed the original language because it would impact our ability to provide services that weve provided in the past as well as infringe on our ability to maintain the public spaces for equal use by all of our citizens in Clark County. The bill didnt receive a single vote and died in committee. Harris warned local efforts to criminalize the unhoused from sleeping and camping is going to make things worse. Putting people in jail, criminalizing these things, its never worked for us, Harris said. Historically, it doesnt work. We can go back to the war on drugs. We can look at other issues weve tried to solve this way. It just, it doesnt do it. We got to do the deeper work. Manufacturing criminal records Ohrenschall worked with the ACLU of Nevada when drafting SB 155. In a previous interview with Nevada Current, ACLU executive director Athar Haseebullah said they were told by leadership it wasnt going to pass, and the governors office said it wasnt going to be signed. It had to be modified in order for it to even get through, he said. The version that passed, and was signed into law, authorizes homeless persons who commit certain misdemeanors to be diverted to specialty court programs, where fines may be waived or reduced if they complete the program. I need to see whats being done in the different courts around the state, Ohrenschall said. Im aware of different efforts to make sure there are diversion programs. Some may be in line with the legislation. Courts might be doing it independently in others. I need to get more information on that. The bill doesnt require courts or diversion programs to report back to the legislature. The Fines and Fees Justice Center of Nevada recently requested data from Renos Community Court, which is designed for unhoused people who commit quality of life offenses such as unauthorized possession of a shopping cart, trespassing, urinating in public or unauthorized camping. These are rights that we all hold, regardless of our housing status or not. Its sad that simply trying to state that really put our government, our local governments, on edge. That should make all Nevadans a bit nervous. Former state Sen. Dallas Harris The center presented court data from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 to the Reno Human Rights Commission, a subcommittee that makes recommendations to the City Council, on Dec. 12. Nick Shepack, the Nevada state director for the Fines and Fees Justice Center, said of the 669 people cited to the community court in that time period, 61 individuals successfully completed the courts requirements. In an interview with the Current, Shepack said 629 didnt show up to their court hearing and ended up with warrants for their arrest for failure to appear. Shepack said fines and fees are being eliminated for people who participate in the community court, in alignment with SB 155. In order to participate in the court, you must plead guilty or no contest, he said. What we are finding is that the vast majority of people are pleading guilty. Even if you complete all of the requirements of the court, people can still end with a criminal record. Its going to show up on a background check right for an employer or someone from the housing authority. It will indicate either that you were currently or recently experiencing homelessness, or that youve committed these certain crimes. He called the court well-intended, but he doesnt consider it a diversion program and hopes there are efforts to make the program more effective. A true diversion court would say, if you come and complete the requirements of the court, were going to drop the charges in exchange for your completion of the court requirements, Shepack said. Making it more punitive Previous rulings by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, whose jurisdiction includes Nevada, restricted cities from adopting ordinance that criminalize sleeping when there isnt available shelter space. The City of Las Vegas first passed its ordinance in 2019 to criminalize sleeping and lodging in certain areas of town. The ban only went into effect when there werent available shelter beds in order to be in compliance with the ruling. City officials were told at a September meeting that 110 people had been arrested or cited since the ordinance went into effect in 2020. The U.S. The Supreme Court ruled in June that anti-camping bans passed by cities dont violate the 8th Amendments prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment even when there is a lack of adequate shelter spaces for the unhoused to go. The decision has paved the way for more cities to criminalize sleeping and camping even as the homeless crisis worsens. Las Vegas expanded its ordinance in November to make it more punitive and remove the shelter requirement. In the aftermath of the ruling, Clark County commissioners passed a camping ban 6-1 in November. The ban doesnt go into effect until Feb. 1 and cant be implemented if there arent available shelter beds. Local officials in Nye and Reno are in early discussions about further criminalization efforts. My personal opinion is just because the Supreme Court says you can, doesnt mean you should, Harris said. WASHINGTON (AP) ___ EDITORS: As part of its coverage of the death of former President Jimmy Carter, The Associated Press is looking back at major events in his life. Carter's success at Camp David negotiating a Mideast Peace agreement between Egypt and Israel was one of his crowning achievements. AP Diplomatic Writer Barry Schweid covered Carter's announcement in this Sept. 17, 1978, story. - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Carter announced to the world Sunday night that a framework for peace in the Middle East had been reached at his summit meeting with Egypts Anwar Sadat and Israels Menachem Begin. Flanked by President Sadat and Prime Minister Begin, he said documents signed by the two leaders will provide that Israel may live in peace within secure borders. The far-reaching accord commits Egypt and Israel to work to conclude a peace treaty within three months. The treaty would be the first formal recognition of the Jewish state by any of its Arab neighbors since the creation of Israel in 1948. Begin, in a friendly challenge to Sadat, urged that the treaty be concluded before three months elapse. Sadat applauded the overture and nodded in agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter said Israel would withdraw its forces from the West Bank of the Jordan River. The agreement allows the Israelis to maintain a security presence in specified bases while ending its military rule of the territory, taken in the Six-Day War of 1967. Administration officials, who declined to be identified, said no American troops would be involved in the security arrangements negotiated at the summit, although they did not rule out American involvement sometime in the future. The 1.1 million Palestinian Arabs living on the West Bank and in the Gaza Strip on the Sinai will have the right to participate in the determination of their own future, Carter said. On the Sinai front, Carter said, Israel would withdraw its forces quickly, with the result being establishment of diplomatic relations between the two old foes in a 30-year conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters appearance with Sadat and Begin at the White House was nationally televised. Flags of the United States, Israel and Egypt stood behind them. The U.S. president, looking back on 13 days of long negotiation, acknowledged that at times the talks faltered and it seemed that the patience of Sadat and Begin would run out. But Carter said results exceeded all expectations. Sadat, speaking next at a ceremony in the White House East Room, thanked Carter for fulfilling his commitment to serving as a full partner in the talks. Sadat expressed gratitude to Carter for his spirit and dedication and concluded with a prayer that the spirit of Camp David would mark a new chapter in Middle East history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Begin, in a tribute to Carter, said he worked harder than our forefathers did in building the pyramids of Egypt. The gentle reference to the Biblical period of Jewish slavery drew appreciative chuckles from the dignitaries on hand. The president of the United States won the day, Begin said. Peace now celebrates a great victory for the nations of Egypt and Israel and for all mankind. But before there is peace, Begin noted, Israel and Egypt have three months of negotiations ahead to conclude a peace treaty. Mr. President, Begin said to Carter, you inscribed your name forever in the history of two ancient people, the people of Egypt and the people of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turning to Sadat, the Israeli prime minister said there was no point in recounting the saga of their differences during the negotiations. Everything belongs to the past, Begin said. Now, once again, Begin said, he could refer to Sadat as my friend. Begin and saluted Sadat as a friend after the Egyptian leaders historic visit to Jerusalem last November. But when the differences deepened after their talk at Ismailia, Egypt, in December, Begin no longer used the phrase. When Begin concluded his remarks, he embraced Carter and then Sadat. The three leaders then signed the framework for peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter said the framework can be used later by Israel to negotiate peace treaties with her other Arab neighbors, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. After signing the documents, the three leaders shook hands. Although differences remain, the prospect of peace between Egypt and Israel by Christmas was a stunning surprise, made even more dramatic by the deep secrecy imposed during the negotiations. One question mark remaining was whether the concessions offered by Israel to the Palestinian Arabs living on the West Bank of the Jordan into the peace process. Carter said he hoped the foresight and wisdom demonstrated by Sadat and Begin will guide all nations as they continue to strive toward peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three leaders smiled and waved as they boarded a jet helicopter to depart Camp David for Washington. Carter climbed in first. Begin deferred to Sadat and urged the Egyptian leader to board second. The three men and the helicopter were lit by the glare of floodlights. When the helicopter touched down on the White House south lawn, the three leaders were greeted by some 50 dignitaries and members of the White House staff. Each of the three got a kiss from the presidents wife, Rosalynn. Senate Majority Leader Robert C. Byrd said Carter asked to explain the agreements to a joint session of Congress at 8 p.m. EDT on Monday. The administration officials, who declined to be identified, said the documents provide a framework for continuing negotiations and not a completed agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forty issues remain unresolved after the 12-day summit, including the ultimate fate of Israeli settlements in the Sinai and the nature of the final arrangement for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The agreement on the Sinai comes closer to being a final settlement, the officials said. It provides that Israel eventually restore Egyptian sovereignty throughout the Sinai and that Egypt will make peace and establish normal relations with Israel. The Sinai agreement calls for phased withdrawal of Israeli troops, starting as soon as six months from Sunday night and the return of Sinai airfields to Egyptian civilian control. It commits both Israel and Egypt to agreeing to a treaty within three months, with a major Israeli withdrawal three to nine months after the treaty is signed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the first Israeli withdrawal, the two countries agreed to establish normal diplomatic relations, the administration officials said. The final Israeli withdrawal is to take place two to three years after the signing of the peace treaty. The treaty also is designed to provide security zones for Israel in the Sinai as well as a program of arms reduction in the area. The major disagreement on the Sinai is the fate of Israeli settlements in captured territory. The officials said Egypt demands that Israel remove the settlements. Israeli negotiators wanted the issue to be decided during the negotiations, the officials said. But they added that the Israel is agreed to let their parliament decide within two weeks on how the question should be resolved. The agreement on the West Bank and Gaza Strip is much less specific, reflecting the difficulties in that area. In that agreement, the officials said, Egypt and Israel agree to a five year transition period during which the inhabitants will attain full autonomy, but Israel will be able to station troops in specified bases in both the West Bank and Gaza areas. The framework leaves unsettled the issues of the final borders between Israel and the new Palestinian entity and whether that entity will be a state, an affiliate of Jordan or something else. The countries involved will invite Jordan to join their negotiations along with representatives of the Palestinians living in the two territories. Jordan also will be invited to play a security role during the period. Israel committed itself to establishing no new settlements in those territories during the negotiations, the officials said. If and when a final agreement is reached, elected representatives of West Bank and Gaza inhabitants, predominately Palestinians, will have an opportunity to pass judgment on it, the officials said. They said Israel and Egypt could agree only to exchanging letters on the emotional issue of the fate of Jerusalem. The officials would not disclose what was to be said in those letters. The fact that Carter was meeting side-by-side with Sadat and Begin suggested that the summit had not ended in failure. The White House appearance was arranged after Carter had mounted an all-out, 11th hour effort to narrow differences between Egypt and Israel on a peace formula. As Carter drove for an agreement, facing a Sunday night deadline concurred in by all three leaders, officials of Egypt, Israel and the United States privately indicated he was making progress. George Sherman, a State Department spokesman, disclosed the arrangement for the joint appearance after a day of negotiating at all levels in the summit delegations. Declining to say whether the Camp David summit had concluded, Sherman declared he had been authorized to make only a procedural announcement. In his final effort, Carter shuttled between Sadat and Begin and back again. But no three-way meeting was reported before the leaders appeared together for their wrapup announcement. Carter went to Sadats quarters at Camp David for a 45-minute meeting Sunday morning. Then, the White House said, Carter spent six minutes - from 3:27 p.m. to 3:33 p.m. EDT - with Begin. That session was followed by a second Carter-Sadat meeting. It lasted an hour and 50 minutes. Israeli sources said, meanwhile, that Sadat also met with Israeli Defense Minister Ezer Weizman. A White House announcement said intensive consultations within and among the three delegations continued. No plans for a Carter-Begin-Sadat meeting were announced, however. They last met formally on Sept. 7. In Washington, the presidents wife, Rosalynn, told a White House meeting of Hispanic leaders that Carter says today Sunday is the last day. It might go to midnight. He just doesnt know . . . He needs your prayers in these last hours of the summit meeting at Camp David. However, in Atlantic City, N.J., President Lloyd McBride of the United Steelworkers Union told a news conference that Carter had put off speaking to the unions convention from Tuesday to Wednesday. A White House aide, Robert Neuman, said the delay is due to the summit. At Camp David, a White House official confirmed that Carter had postponed his speech one day. The official, who asked that his name not be used, said Carter would be involved in post-summit details even if the summit was concluded by Tuesday. Asked how Carter would report summit results to the nation, the official said the president had not yet decided. Congressional sources have said the White House has considered a presidential address to Congress or a nationally televised news conference. Begin declined an invitation to speak, in person or by telephone, to a Sunday afternoon meeting of an Israel Bonds leadership conference in Washington. A spokesman for the group, Gunther Lawrence, said Begin wanted to maintain a news blackout at the summit as long as the talks were in progress. While there was no word on specifics, Israeli sources expressed cautious optimism after Carter and Begin ended a 45-hour session past midnight Saturday. One source, who declined to be identified, said a good atmosphere characterized the session. An Egyptian editor, Moussa Sabry of Al Akhbar, reported -- without offering any details -- that an earlier, 2 1/2-hour session between Carter and Sadat had produced a dramatic development. Those upbeat outlooks contrasted with pessimism reflected by the Egyptian press when summit spokesman Jody Powell first announced the 12-day conference would end by Sunday night. Powell said the leaders were likely to meet again in a three-way session the first in 10 days -- before the end of the summit. Among items under discussion in the final hours was a wrapup communique. Powell indicated there might be more than one. As the final countdown began, Carter attended Sunday services conducted at Camp David by Cecil Reed, a Protestant chaplain from nearby Ft. Ritchie, Md. When Carter set up his separate meetings with Sadat and Begin, sources close to all three delegations reported the negotiations were at a delicate and critical stage. At that point, Powell said, there was still no agreement on a framework for future negotiations between Egypt and Israel. That was Carters minimal goal when he invited Sadat and Begin to his secluded retreat in Marylands Catoctin Mountains. Apart from procedural disputes, the two sides apparently had not settled any of the key issues. These center on whether Begin was willing to commit Israel to a withdrawal from the West Bank of the Jordan River and on how Israels security would be protected. Sen. Henry M. Jackson, D-Wash., chairman of the arms control subcommittee, told the Israeli Bonds conference that efforts to include a West Bank settlement in an overall Middle East agreement was a mistake and doomed to failure. I am convinced that the Israelis are prepared to return the Sinai to Egypt in exchange for peace, Jackson said. Carter proposed the Sunday night deadline and Sadat and Begin concurred, according to Powell, spokesman for all three governments. He said the decision grew out a shared conclusion that the issue in dispute had been certainly aired. Sadat and Begin have not had a face-to-face negotiating session since Sept. 7. Since then, Carter has shuttled between them. Sadat has met with Israeli Foreign Minister Moshe Dayan and Defense Minister Ezer Weizman. American officials have tried to minimize the long time since the last formal meeting between Sadat and Begin. Still, there were persistent rumors of personal differences between the two leaders. Powell has not denied the rumors directly. I simply have not tried to keep a running tab on the personal feelings of these two men, he said on Friday. MADISON COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) With deer hunting season in Arkansas well underway, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking for help as it searches for information in what its calling a senseless slaughter. The photo below has been blurred because of its graphic nature and some viewers may still find it disturbing. The unblurred photo can be found on the Madison County Sheriffs Offices Facebook page. (Courtesy: Madison County Sheriffs Office) Arkansas State Police troopers seize more than 200 pounds of illegal marijuana in Christmas Eve traffic stop Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post from MCSO shows four deer carcasses dumped along Madison 6351 in Wesley with large amounts of meat still remaining. It said true sportsmen rely on that meat to feed their families. Anyone with information is asked to contact AGFC at 1-833-356-0824 or you can reach out to them by texting a tip at 847411. AGFC says that if someone is found dumping a large animal, such as a deer, or even not disposing of it properly, they could face a fine of up to $1,000. Poaching of an animal could lead to a fine of up to $5,000. Both charges could come with jail time if convicted. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers adopted state-of-the-art technology that could protect America's crumbling dams from growing threats of climate change, TechInformed reported. With nearly 92,000 dams across the U.S., many built over a century ago, the risk of collapse from extreme weather induced by a warming planet is rising. Last June, the Rapidan Dam in Minnesota flooded, resulting in a "partial failure" that led to power outages, Fox 9 reported. The stakes for infrastructural damage are high 85% of U.S. dams have exceeded their life expectancy, and renovations are estimated to cost a whopping $64 billion, according to TechInformed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To tackle this, the Army Corps of Engineers partnered with Dataforensics and Bentley Systems to use OpenGround, a platform for geotechnical data. OpenGround allows the Corps to centralize and standardize $500 million of subsurface data from over 200,000 boreholes drilled into the ground. Subsurface data refers to geological conditions like soil, rock, and groundwater below the earth's surface information that's key to addressing dam failures. That way, dam data can be easily accessed and assessed during emergencies, resulting in faster, more accurate responses to crises. The results were promising. During a recent seepage of an aging dam, the Corps relied on the newly centralized system to locate critical data "within minutes," visualize it using geographic tools, and provide emergency workers with actionable insights, helping avert a life-threatening emergency, Dataforensics President Scott Deaton told TechInformed. Still, moving all that data to a new system wasn't easy. "Shifting from a paper-based approach to a modern system required significant effort," Deaton said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Centralizing hordes of data from 8,500 projects took 3,000 hours, which would've taken 60,000 hours without automation. Beyond data migration, the Corps provided three years of training to more than 400 staff members so the system could be adopted across the entire organization. The OpenGround system demonstrates how smart tech can protect aging infrastructure from catastrophic damage. Increasing emergency preparedness for compromised dams can save lives, protect homes, and reduce the likelihood of mass displacement when disaster strikes, protecting frontline communities' mental health. Do you think our power grid needs to be upgraded? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind The technology also promotes sustainability. By minimizing the need for new drilling, OpenGround reduces environmental disturbances that could increase erosion, contaminate groundwater, generate waste, and pollute the air. OpenGround joins a growing list of emerging green technologies that could provide creative solutions to environmental protection. One University of Missouri researcher developed a cooling system that could reduce the temperature of power-hungry data centers that power artificial intelligence, lowering energy usage. Chemical companies created machines they claim convert carbon emissions sucked from the air into packaging materials like shipping labels, reducing pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As climate change accelerates and dams face mounting pressures, innovations like OpenGround offer a blueprint for resilience. While not a quick fix, this system provides the Army Corps of Engineers with tools to save aging infrastructure, ensuring safer living conditions for millions of Americans. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Happy 2025! In some parts of the world, anyway. The Pacific island nation of Kiribati was the first country to ring in 2025, with its 133,500 citizens celebrating the new year at 5 a.m. ET on Tuesday. The Micronesian nation was soon followed into 2025 by the Chatham Islands in New Zealand at 5:15 a.m. ET. MORE: New Year's Eve weather: What to expect Auckland, New Zealand New Zealand's capital Wellington and its largest city of Auckland -- both located on the country's North Island -- welcomed 2025 at 6 a.m. ET. Fireworks lit up the Auckland skyline as massed crowds watched. Sydney, Australia Residents of the western Australian city of Sydney enjoyed a fireworks display three hours ahead of midnight local time, which is 8 a.m. ET. PHOTO: The Sydney NYE fireworks seen from the Sydney Opera House on January 01, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Brook Mitchell/Getty Images) PHOTO: Fireworks explode over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve celebrations in Sydney, Jan. 1, 2025. (Bianca De Marchi/AP) The famed Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House provided a familiar backdrop for New Year's revelers in the country's largest city. PHOTO: Fireworks illuminate the sky above the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the New Year's Eve celebrations in Sydney, Australia, Jan. 1, 2025. (Bianca De Marchi/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock) PHOTO: The Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks seen from the Sydney Opera House, Jan. 1, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Brook Mitchell/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tokyo, Japan The words "Happy New Year" lit up a building in Tokyo as Japan ushered in 2025. MORE: 'New Year's Rockin' Eve': Time, performers and more PHOTO: A projection is displayed on the surface of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, to celebrate the New Year, in Tokyo, Japan Jan. 1, 2025. (Kim Kyung-hoon/Reuters) Seoul, South Korea In South Korea, people gathered at midnight to honor the victims of this weekend's plane crash at South Korea's Muan International Airport that killed 179 of the 181 people on board. PHOTO: People pay tribute to the victims of the Jeju Air plane crash during a countdown event to mark the 2025 New Year, at the Bosingak pavilion in central Seoul before midnight, Dec. 31, 2024. (Jung Yeon-je/AFP via Getty Images) Hong Kong Hong Kong said goodbye to 2024 with an epic fireworks display at 11 a.m. ET. PHOTO: Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour to celebrate the New Year in Hong Kong, China Jan. 1, 2025. (Chan Long Hei/AP) PHOTO: Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour to celebrate the New Year in Hong Kong, China Jan. 1, 2025. (Chan Long Hei/AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing, China Partyers posed with light-up sticks in Beijing at 11 a.m. ET. PHOTO: Revelers ring in the new year during a countdown event held in Beijing, Jan. 1, 2025. (Ng Han Guan/AP) PHOTO: Performers take part in the New Year's 2025 countdown celebrations at Shougang Park in Beijing, China, Jan. 1, 2025. (Andres Martinez Casares/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock) Manila, Philippines The buildings were as bright as the fireworks in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. PHOTO: Fireworks light up the sky ushering in the New Year in Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines, Jan. 1, 2025. (Jam Sta Rosa/AFP via Getty Images) Bangkok In Bangkok, crowds gathered around the IconSiam shopping mall to ring in the new year at noon ET. PHOTO: Fireworks explode over the Grand Palace during the New Year celebrations in Bangkok, Thailand, Jan. 1, 2025. (Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTO: Fireworks explode over the Chao Phraya River during New Year celebrations in Bangkok, Thailand, Jan. 1, 2025. (Sakchai Lalit/AP) Jakarta, Indonesia Some women donned "2025" headbands to celebrate New Year's Eve in Jakarta, Indonesia. PHOTO: Women wearing '2025' head bands attend the New Year's Eve celebrations in Jakarta, Indonesia, Dec. 31, 2024. (Willy Kurniawan/Reuters) PHOTO: Local residents look at fireworks as they celebrate the New Year at Ancol Beach in Jakarta, Jan. 1, 2025. (Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP via Getty Images) Karachi, Pakistan Karachi, Pakistan, kicked off 2025 with a 40-minute fireworks show. Dubai The world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, was lit up for New Year's Eve in Dubai as it rang in 2025 at 3 p.m. ET. PHOTO: Lights illuminate Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and other buildings ahead of the New Year's Eve celebration, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 31, 2024. (Altaf Qadri/AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTO: Fireworks explode over the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, during the New Year's Eve celebrations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 1, 2025. (Amr Alfiky/Reuters) Moscow Revelers took to the streets in Moscow for the new year, which began at 4 p.m. ET. PHOTO: People react as they take part in New Year celebrations in central Moscow, Jan. 1, 2025. (Evgenia Novozhenina/Reuters) PHOTO: People light sparklers during New Year celebrations near Red Square in central Moscow, Jan. 1, 2025. (Evgenia Novozhenina/Reuters) Damascus, Syria A DJ performed at a New Year's Eve party in Damascus, Syria. PHOTO: A DJ performs as people gather during New Year's Eve, after the ousting of Syria's Bashar al-Assad, in Damascus, Syria, Dec. 31, 2024. (Amr Abdallah Dalsh/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baghdad, Iraq A massive fireworks display was set off over palm trees in Baghdad, Iraq. PHOTO: Fireworks explode during New Year celebrations in Baghdad, Jan. 1, 2025. (Ahmed Saad/Reuters) Cairo, Egypt Egyptian revelers rang in the new year at 5 p.m. ET. PHOTO: An Egyptian poses in front of New Year decorations in Cairo, Dec. 31, 2024. (Amr Nabil/AP) PHOTO: Fireworks spark over the historical site of Giza Pyramids, marking the new year, just outside Cairo, Jan. 1, 2025. (Amr Nabil/AP) Athens, Greece Athens, Greece, dazzled its large crowds with both fireworks and a drone show at midnight. PHOTO: A drone view shows fireworks exploding behind the ancient Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis hill during New Year's celebrations, in Athens, Greece, Jan. 1, 2025. (Yiannis Kotsiaris/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paris, France The Arc de Triomphe was a glowing centerpiece of new year celebrations in Paris, which began at 6 p.m. ET. PHOTO: Fireworks explode as The Arc de Triomphe is illuminated during the New Year's celebrations on the Champs Elysees avenue in Paris, Jan. 1, 2025. (Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters) Berlin, Germany Fireworks brightened the sky above the Quadriga at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, as 2025 launched with great fanfare. PHOTO: Fireworks light the sky above the Quadriga at the Brandenburg Gate during New Year's celebrations shortly after midnight in Berlin, Jan. 1, 2025. (Ebrahim Noroozi/AP) Amsterdam, Netherlands The Museumplein in Amsterdam featured both a fireworks display and an electronic light show. PHOTO: Revellers celebrate the new year at the Museumplein during the fireworks and electronic light show in Amsterdam on Jan. 1, 2025. (Koen Van Weel/ANP/AFP via Getty Images) Nairobi, Kenya Fireworks illuminated the UAP Old Mutual Tower during new year's celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya. PHOTO: Fireworks over the UAP Old Mutual Tower during the New Year's celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya, Jan. 1, 2025. (Thomas Mukoya/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brussels, Belgium Fireworks lit up the Atomium in Brussels during a majestic commemoration of a new year. PHOTO: Fireworks shoot at the Atomium in Brussels during the New Year's Eve celebration on early Jan. 1, 2025. (Hatim Kaghat/Belga/AFP via Getty Images) Madrid, Spain Thousands gathered in Puerta del Sol square in downtown Madrid to usher in the new year. PHOTO: People celebrate during New Year's celebrations at Madrid's Puerta del Sol square in downtown Madrid, Jan. 1, 2025. (Manu Fernandez/AP) London, England London welcomed the new year with a radiant fireworks show over the Thames at 7 p.m. ET. PHOTO: Fireworks light up the sky over Elizabeth Tower, also known as Big Ben, and the London Eye in central London during the New Year celebrations, Jan. 1, 2025. (James Manning/AP) PHOTO: Fireworks explode over the London Eye Ferris wheel as Britons across the country welcome the New Year, in London, Jan. 1, 2025. (Isabel Infantes/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warsaw, Poland Fireworks are part of a festive occasion to ring in the new year in Warsaw, Poland. PHOTO:Fireworks light the sky above the Royal Castle during New Year's celebrations shortly after midnight in Warsaw, Poland, Jan. 1, 2025. (Czarek Sokolowski/AP) New York, New York An evening of thunderstorms in Manhattan couldn't spoil the party on New Year's Eve. One million gathered in Times Square to watch the ball drop as part of New York City's annual celebration at 12 a.m. ET. PHOTO: US-LIFESTYLE-HOLIDAY-NEWYEARS (Yuki Iwamura/AFP via Getty Images) Follow New Year's Eve 2025 celebrations around the world originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The Texas National Guard prevents a group of migrants from crossing the border in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, on December 18, 2024. The Joe Biden administration is drawing to a close, with evidence suggesting that the restrictive policies implemented during the final year of the presidents term have significantly curtailed the massive influx of irregular immigration that marked much of his presidency. In December, the U.S.-Mexico border recorded a new low in irregular entries, cementing a downward trend that began in August. Preliminary data released by the Associated Press indicates approximately 44,000 arrests as of Monday morning, pointing to an expected total close to Novembers 46,612 apprehensions. This information was provided by a senior Customs and Border Protection official who requested anonymity due to the preliminary nature of the figures. For six straight months, illegal border entries have declined, falling to levels not seen since July 2020. The chaotic surge of migrants at the border last year was a central theme of President-elect Donald Trumps campaign attacks on Bidens administration. Trumps focus on this issue proved a decisive strategy, leading to a landslide Republican victory in the November 5 elections. By December 2023, the Border Patrol had recorded approximately 250,000 arrests along the southern border, marking an all-time high. Biden, who entered office with promises to reverse his predecessors stringent anti-immigration policies marked by indiscriminate deportations and family separations faced widespread criticism for enabling the massive entry of undocumented immigrants. However, recent statistics reveal that the Biden administration set a new deportation record this year, expelling 271,484 non-citizens to 192 countries. This figure surpasses the record set under Trump. Restrictions on asylum The recent decline in illegal border crossings can largely be attributed to police enforcement measures implemented by former Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who reached an agreement with President Biden to curb the flow of migrants from Central America. Additionally, changes to U.S. asylum policies under the Biden administration played a critical role. In June, President Biden approved stricter asylum laws, mandating border closures whenever the daily average of arrests exceeded 2,500 for seven consecutive days. In September, restrictions were further tightened: the suspension of asylum applications could only be lifted once daily arrests fell below 1,500 for 28 consecutive days. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted these efforts in a statement, crediting the swift and effective implementation of asylum restrictions in June for achieving another month of border activity below the 2019 average, when Trump was in office. This sustained success is the result of strong border enforcement, extensive engagement with our foreign partners, and the delivery of safe and lawful pathways that continue to provide humanitarian relief under our laws, Mayorkas said. The Rio Grande Valley in Texas was the second-busiest corridor for illegal crossings in December, rising from fifth place in November a shift attributed to tactics employed by smuggling organizations and Mexican authorities. San Diego maintained its position as the leading corridor, followed by El Paso, Texas, and Tucson, Arizona. An immigrant is detained by a Border Patrol agent in Sunland Park, New Mexico, in November 2024. Jose Luis Gonzalez (REUTERS) The December data challenges the widespread belief that Trumps return to the White House has driven a significant increase in migrant crossings ahead of his January 20 inauguration. Trump has pledged to shut down the southern border on his first day in office and to sign a series of executive orders aimed at reestablishing his hardline immigration policies, including the mass deportation of the 11 million undocumented immigrants residing in the United States. While experts predict that legal, logistical, and financial hurdles will delay the implementation of these plans, Trumps actions to date such as appointing staunch hardliners to lead his immigration agenda and his public statements indicate his determination to move forward. Among the measures Trump plans to introduce is the cancellation of the CBP One app, a program initiated under the Biden administration that allows migrants to schedule appointments to request asylum. Through this initiative, which offers 1,450 slots daily, Biden sought to promote the legal entry of foreign nationals. December is expected to mark the second consecutive month in which legal border crossings outnumber illegal ones. Control from Mexico Despite not yet reaching the U.S. border, thousands of migrants have surged northward in an attempt to enter the country. However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has intensified operations to prevent them from reaching their destination. Activist groups reported in December that Mexican immigration authorities dismantled two small migrant caravans heading to the border. Some migrants were transported by bus to southern Mexican cities, while others were offered transit documents. Trump has increased pressure on the Mexican government, threatening to impose a 25% tariff on Mexican goods if it fails to curb the flow of migrants reaching its northern border. Meanwhile, Mexico is preparing to support its citizens affected by Trumps announced deportation measures. In addition to setting up facilities to accommodate deportees, the government has introduced a virtual panic button, allowing Mexicans to notify the consulate, the foreign ministry, and designated family members of an imminent deportation. Secretary of Foreign Affairs Juan Ramon de la Fuente announced the initiative as a measure to safeguard the human rights of the 4.8 million Mexicans currently in the U.S. without legal documentation Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition ASHLAND, Ky. (FOX 56) Former President Jimmy Carter passed away on Sunday at 100 years old, making him the longest-living U.S. President. A woman from Ashland had the chance to meet President Carter before his deatha moment she said was life-changing. In 2019, President Carter led a Sunday school class at Maranatha Baptist Church in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. It was something that brought in people from all over, including Kentuckian Suzanne Barker Griffith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive been expecting this for two years since he went into hospice, so I feel like I have already mourned. Ive already gone through the mourning process, and right now Im just happy that hes back with Rosalynn. I feel like Jesus just gave him the biggest hug ever, Griffith said. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: It was quite a journey, but one Griffith says was well worth it. I wanted to go to his Sunday school for years. Finally, in 2019, I had the opportunity. I was going to Florida anyway, so I said, What the heck, Im just going to do this. I was so glad that I did. It made a big impression on my life, and Im just glad that I did, Griffith said. Getting to meet a U.S. President isnt something everyone will get to do, but for Griffith and the many who came that day, it left an impression that theyll never forget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he walked in, Im telling you I felt like my heart just about stopped. He came in so humble. When he sat down, he said, Are there any visitors here? Of course, he had that big smile because it was filled with people from around the world and more people outside just waiting, Griffith said. Read more of the latest Kentucky news Griffith said the late President left behind a great legacy, but something that will always stick out to her is the Jimmy Carter challenge, which involves doing a good thing for another person. Its something she challenges everyone to take part in. I carry that within me. I carry those words within me, and I am much more aware of peoples needs and much more willing to give because Im doing it not only because thats what were supposed to do as Christians, but also to make America a better nation, Griffith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. China and Taiwan have rung in the New Year with light shows in several major cities, hours after similar celebrations in Australia and New Zealand. In Beijing, celebrations were held at a former steelworks on the city's western outskirts, while in Shanghai, crowds gathered to admire light displays along the world-renowned river promenade and other locations. The Chinese special administrative region of Hong Kong hosted a grand fireworks display over Victoria Harbour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Year's Eve is not as widely celebrated in China as elsewhere, with the Chinese New Year, based on the lunar calendar, seen as far more significant. In 2025, it will fall on January 29. In Taiwan, a six-minute fireworks show was performed for thousands of spectators at the country's landmark Taipei 101 building, which is 509 metres tall. For the first time, the display also included a light show, organizers said. Earlier, Kiritimati, a Pacific Ocean atoll home to about 5,000 people, was the first inhabited place to welcome the New Year - as it does every year. Auckland was the first major international centre to welcome in the New Year, with the landmarks of New Zealand's largest city lighting up at midnight (1100 GMT Tuesday). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven songs made up a "midnight moment" soundtrack, synchronized with the lights, lasers and fireworks. Two hours later, Sydney rang in the New Year with its world-famous fireworks show above the harbour, watched by millions at home and abroad. The Australian city's fireworks display began at midnight (1300 GMT) against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and the iconic Opera House. Fireworks also exploded over other major Australian cities, including Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide at midnight. In Bangkok, one of the best ways to take in the show was from a party boat on the Chao Phraya River. Thailand, which follows the Buddhist calendar, began the year 2568. In Singapore, crowds of onlookers gathered to watch the fireworks at Marina Bay, with a view of the skyline. Many hours later, American Samoa will be the last to ring in 2025. A projection mapping is displayed on the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building during the 'Happy New Year Tokyo 2025' countdown event, as people gather outside to celebrate the upcoming New Year. Rodrigo Reyes Marin/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa ATHENS, Pa. (WETM) An Athens man has been sentenced to serve at least 10 years in prison after he was convicted of raping a child multiple times in early 2023. Wayne F. Talada, 37, was sentenced to a minimum of 10 years to a maximum of 27 years followed by three years of re-entry probationary supervision for two counts of sexual assault, a second-degree felony, and one count of corruption of minors, a third-degree felony, as reported by the Bradford County District Attorneys Office. According to previous reports from police, Talada was arrested in October of 2023 by the Athens Township Police Department after they were made aware of incidents that took place between late February of 2023 to late April of 2023 involving Talada and a 12-year-old girl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police: Bradford County man faces numerous felonies after rape of 12yo girl At this time, police stated that the victim had reported that Talada had raped them four or five times over a two-month period and that they had been forced each time under threats of violence. In addition to his sentence, Talada will also be required to register with Pennsylvanias version of Megans Law for the rest of his life. Talada was also declared to be a sexually violent predator, which entails additional restrictions if and when he is released from prison, such as community notification. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. SANTA ROSA COUNTY, Fla. (WKRG) A man and woman from Atlanta were arrested on several charges after a traffic stop in Santa Rosa County, according to the sheriffs office. According to an SRCSO Facebook post, deputies made a traffic stop on Dec. 26 after the driver of a 2024 Jeep Wagoneer reportedly violated traffic laws and was driving distracted. Saraland man arrested after accidentally firing gun during altercation: Mobile police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SRCSO officials said deputies searched the vehicle and ultimately seized a cloned credit card, 47 gift cards, 20 blank magnetic strip cards, a portable card cutter, two laptops, a printer, three unopened DeWalt tool sets, $4,312 in cash, a small amount of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and 30 fake Tennessees drivers licenses with the drivers photo but different names and dates of birth. The traffic stop led to the arrests of 48-year-old Dwyane Trevell Britford and 24-year-old Kashan Antoinette Hughes. Dwyane Trevell Britford and Kashan Antoinette Hughes. (Santa Rosa County Jail View) Britford, who was driving the vehicle, is accused of 30 counts of possession of forged drivers licenses, possession of a cloned credit card, marijuana possession (less than 20 grams), and drug paraphernalia. SRCSO officials said he also had multiple active arrest warrants for similar crimes. Mobile Police to ramp up New Years security after a violent past 2 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hughes, a passenger, was arrested on four counts of possession of forged drivers licenses, marijuana possession (less than 20 grams), and drug paraphernalia. SRCSO officials said both have extensive criminal histories involving theft, fraud, and narcotics. Additional charges may follow. Britford remains in jail while Hughes was released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Atlanta police, alongside E911, Atlanta fire, and the citys department of transportation explained during a news conference the citys security plan to keep Atlanta safe as tens of thousands ring in the new year. Large numbers are expected on New Years Eve after the Peach Drop went on hiatus last year. Atlanta Chief of Police Darin Schierbaum says street patrols and other task force will be out patrolling for street racing and DUIs on New Years Eve. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] We will have special teams deployed throughout the city and if street racing is how youre going to ring in the new year, I can guarantee you, you will bailing out of jail, Schierbaum said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City of Atlanta Department of Transportation is getting ready to shut down several streets in preparation for the event. ATLDOT says they will start shutting down some lanes on Monday before fully shutting down several streets on Tuesday. TRENDING STORIES: The closures will last from 6 a.m. on Monday until 8 a.m. on Wednesday. Monday, December 30 Peachtree St. One northbound lane from Upper Alabama St. SW to Wall St. SW Pryor St. SW One southbound lane from Wall St. SW to Upper Alabama St. SW Wall St. SW One eastbound lane from Pryor St. SW to Central Ave. SW Central Ave. SW Two northbound lanes from Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. SW to Decatur St. SE Tuesday, December 31 Pryor St. SW Full street closure from Decatur St. SE to Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. SW Wall St. SW Full street closure from Central Ave. SW to Peachtree St. Peachtree St. Full street closure from Marietta St. NW/Decatur St. SE to Alabama St. SW Full street closure from Alabama St. SW to Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. SW This street will close at 2:00 p.m., except for guests at the Fairfield Hotel Alabama St. SW Full street closure from Forsyth St. SW to Peachtree St. This street will close at 4:00 p.m. Broad St. SW Full street closure from Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. SW to Alabama St. SW This street will close at 4:00 p.m. Both police and E911 say itll have officers and dispatchers working on rotating 12-hour shifts. E911 Director Desiree Arnold is encouraging those with non-emergent needs to use the citys 311 help line and not 911. So were not tied up on no emergency calls, we available to go ahead and handle those emergency situations, Arnold said. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] (WHNT) Former President Jimmy Carters voice and legacy go far beyond Earth to live forever on two gold-plated copper discs, in space. In 1977, NASA produced a recording to accompany the Voyager 1 and 2 interstellar spacecraft. These discs contain sounds and images to portray the diversity of life and culture on Earth. FILE In this Aug. 4, 1977, photo provided by NASA, the Sounds of Earth record is mounted on the Voyager 2 spacecraft in the Safe-1 Building at the Kennedy Space Center, Fla. On Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, NASAs Deep Space Network sent a command to correct a problem with its antenna. It took more than 18 hours for the signal to reach Voyager 2 _ more than 12 billion miles away _ and another 18 hours to hear back. On Friday, Aug. 4, the spacecraft started returning data again. (AP Photo/NASA, File) There are roughly 115 images, a variety of natural sounds, 90 minutes of musical selections from different cultures and eras and spoken greetings from Earth-people in about 55 languages. In addition to this, there is a printed message from Carter and U.N. Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim. The message reads: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Voyager spacecraft was constructed by the United States of America. We are a community of 240 million human beings among the more than 4 billion who inhabit the planet Earth. We human beings are still divided into nation states, but these states are rapidly becoming a single global civilization. We cast this message into the cosmos. It is likely to survive a billion years into our future, when our civilization is profoundly altered and the surface of the Earth may be vastly changed. Of the 200 billion stars in the Milky Way galaxy, someperhaps manymay have inhabited planets and spacefaring civilizations. If one such civilization intercepts Voyager and can understand these recorded contents, here is our message: This is a present from a small distant world, a token of our sounds, our science, our images, our music, our thoughts, and our feelings. We are attempting to survive our time so we may live into yours. We hope someday, having solved the problems we face, to join a community of galactic civilizations. This record represents our hope and our determination, and our good will in a vast and awesome universe. President Jimmy Carter The purpose of this message sent out into the cosmos was to offer a message to any possible life beyond Earth: A message of Peace and hope intended for an audience of alien life. To this day, the twin Voyager probes are still rocketing through space. According to NASAs constantly updated mission status page, Voyager 1 is more than 15 billion miles from Earth while Voyager 2 is creeping on 13 billion miles from Earth. Carters impact on the space program and NASA lives on forever. During Richard Nixons presidency, Nixon approved $5.5 billion for the nascent shuttle program, but the engineers struggled with the design of the main engines. This stalled the project by at least three years and officials pushed to cut NASAs funding following this. But, in 1979, Carter rescued the program with nearly $200 million in additional funds. He also offered an extra $300 million the following fiscal year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2016, he offered an explanation for this decision, which garnered lots of speculation. I was not enthusiastic about sending humans on missions to Mars or outer space, Carter said. But I thought the shuttle was a good way to continue the good work of NASA. I didnt want to waste the money already invested. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) One of Jimmy Carters life missions was to build affordable homes. He and Rosalynn spent decades working with Habitat for Humanity after he left the White House. Those working for the organization right here in Augusta are remembering his life and years of service. Its a huge loss to the American people. He was a national treasure. Bernadette Kelliher is going on two years as CEO for the Augusta location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes calling Carter a deep inspiration for his years of hard work building homesand building hope. Impact is something thats difficult to define, because there are probably people that have been impacted just seeing him show up with a black eye and still volunteer, show up for a build at his age. Its just incredible, said Kelliher. If he can do it, I can do it to, right? The Carters started volunteering with Habitat for Humanity more than 40 years ago in Americus, Georgia. That sparked the beginning of the Carter Work Project, in which Jimmy and Rosalynn worked with volunteers to build homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remembering the life, legacy of Former President Jimmy Carter Since then, the project bringing more than 108,000 volunteers together to build more than 4,000 homes worldwide. He certainly was an individual who didnt just say what he supported. He put actions behind those words, and thats what I believe has made the most impact, Kelliher said. Here at home, 84 homes have been built across the CSRA since the location opened in 1987. Volunteers in the area have also gone to Carter Builds over the years. The closest Carter Build in our area was Valdosta, but quite a few people participated in that. So they come back and talk about it, they give their testimonials of what it was like so thats inspirational to a lot of people who come and volunteer with us, said Kelliher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She adds Carters legacy is not just an inspiration to her, but thousands across the organization. He supported Habitat because he cared about people, and when you get behind our mission, thats important. You have to care about people, you have to care about the community you live in. He said that we were not just blessed enough to build homes, but to create lives and communities. I get goosebumps when I think about it, and thats what were doing, said Kelliher. As Habitat for Humanity looks forward to 2025, Kelliher says they have big goals for the new year, and are optimistic about what is yet to come. Our plans are to continue to grow the program, serve as many families as we can, extend our reach into our community, and really partner with the wonderful nonprofits we have here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carter Work Project will visit Austin, Texas on October 26th, 2025. If youd like to make a donation in honor of Jimmy Carter, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. AURORA, Mo. A man was arrested by law enforcement on Sunday, Dec. 29 after being accused of threatening officers with a machete, a gun and a bomb threat, according to the Aurora-Marionville Police Department (AMPD). AMPD says they were called to the apartments at 801 S. Griffith in Aurora at around 5:30 p.m. for a report of a man threatening neighbors. The probable cause statement alleges that the victim was helping her friend move out of the apartment when a man identified as 56-year-old Lance Bishop, who was about a few inches away from the victim, began yelling at the woman and acting erratically at her while armed with a machete, muttering phrases such as, Im allowed to stand here and stare at you, I hate you, and I can have a gun if I want. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A police officer confronted Bishop and asked him to stop harassing the victim. Shortly after, Bishop started yelling at officers, stating multiple times that they should get off the property or they would regret it, according to court records. He then walked into his residence and came out threatening the officer with a machete. After the officer showed force, Bishop retreated inside as the officer called for backup. Historic downtown Aurora building collapses An hours-long standoff followed, with Bishop threatening law enforcement with a rifle on at least one occasion. Eventually, officers were able to contact Bishop and get him to leave the apartment unarmed, but he told them he would use a kill switch if they tried anything, which officers took as a bomb threat, court documents stated. Officers apprehended and handcuffed Bishop after a brief struggle and transported him to the Lawrence County Jail. A search of Bishops residence after the incident revealed five machetes, a rifle, a handgun, a gas mask with a filter, a stun baton/flashlight and a hatchet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bishop is facing multiple felony charges, including first-degree terrorist threat, first-degree harassment, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, resisting arrest and armed criminal action. He is also facing a misdemeanor fourth-degree assault charge. Court documents note that in 2007, Bishop was found guilty of aggravated assault resulting in serious physical injury in Tucson, Arizona and was sentenced to three years of probation. AMPD was assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office in the incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. The route that begins in Venezuela and reaches the U.S. border passing through Colombia, the Darien jungle, Central America, and Mexico reflects the key challenges that Donald Trump will face in Latin America. Migration, the central issue of the president-elects campaign, is the lens through which the rest of the regions issues can be understood: the ongoing political crisis in Venezuela, the security challenges posed by criminal organizations (mostly drug cartels involved in human trafficking), the strained relationship with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and even the trade tensions that led to the Republicans threats of retaking control of the Panama Canal. As the January 20 inauguration approaches, Latin America is holding its breath in anticipation of Trumps return to the White House. Investiture in Caracas Everything decided in Washington has a profound impact on the more than 6,800 miles that separate the Rio Grande from Patagonia, yet the opposite is almost never true. The United States often faces away from the rest of the continent, with a few exceptions. Venezuela is one of them. The inauguration of the next president, scheduled for January 10, will have direct repercussions on the international geopolitical landscape. Nicolas Maduro is determined to begin a new term after declaring himself the winner of an election marred by allegations of fraud. His main rival, diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, currently in asylum in Madrid, has promised to return and take office according to paper vote tallies collected by the opposition, Gonzalez Urrutia won the July 28 election. The inauguration could further worsen the crisis, which has been aggravated in recent months by the government crackdown on protests and a wave of arrests. One of Trumps first decisions in international politics will be his stance on Chavismo. The intransigence of his designated strongmen for Latin America, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone, does not, however, guarantee unwavering support for Venezuelas opposition. The failure of the Juan Guaido experiment who was recognized as interim president by Trump during his first term and Maduros ability to cling to power may limit White House support. Economic factors, such as Trumps ties to the oil industry, further complicate the issue, along with the fact that the ongoing socio-political crisis continues to drive Venezuelans to flee in search of opportunities over eight million, according to the United Nations. In any case, any move by the U.S. government will be decisive for Venezuelas future, just as it will be for Maduros main ally, the Cuban regime of Miguel Diaz-Canel. Mexico and deportations Claudia Sheinbaums administration is already preparing to confront one of Trumps key electoral promises: mass deportations to Mexico. The exchange of messages with Washington began shortly after the November 5 elections. The president-elect has threatened a tariff war, similar to the one he waged with former Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at the end of the last decade, and to intervene in Mexican territory to dismantle drug cartels. Indeed, Trump has already activated various mechanisms to pressure the Mexican government. Sheinbaum, a left-wing environmentalist ideologically opposed to the Republican, has always been cautious in her responses. From the outset, she has expressed a willingness to collaborate with the new administration on security and the fight against organized crime. However, her conditions are clear: she will not tolerate any violations of Mexican sovereignty. We will never subordinate ourselves, she stated last week in response to Trumps announcement that he would declare the cartels terrorist organizations a move that has sparked alarm about future U.S. actions in Mexico. Weeks ago, Sheinbaum sent a letter to Trump, in which she argued that the U.S. is the primary consumer of drugs, that weapons flow from the country, but that it is Mexico that bears the brunt in terms of lives lost. On this premise, Mexico is eager to cooperate with the White House, which also influences the countrys economic stability. But it is not willing to cooperate at any price. The same stance applies to immigration policy. The Sheinbaum government has affirmed that Mexico is prepared to receive deportees, most of whom come from third countries. However, it has long called for more substantial U.S. investment and a clearer commitment to development in the Northern Triangle of Central America and in Chiapas to address the issue in the long term. The Panama Canal: a question of economics Trumps threat to regain control of the Panama Canal due to perceived abusive tariffs highlights another of the president-elects main concerns: the economy. However, the political use of economic or commercial grievances by the incoming U.S. administration has raised alarm bells across much of the region. Beyond Trumps unlikely plan for the U.S. to take back control of the Panama Canal, which would breach the treaties signed in 1977 by Jimmy Carter and Omar Torrijos, the Republicans idea carries significant weight, particularly because of the sovereignty issues it raises in Latin America. The majority of the continent expressed support for Panama and its president, Jose Raul Mulino, rejecting the Republicans statements. However, Colombian President Gustavo Petro offered a broader reflection that touches on a major concern of the international community. If the new U.S. government wants to talk business, we will talk business, face to face and for the benefit of our people, but dignity will never be negotiable, said Petro. He also urged Trump to focus on the well-being of Latin American countries as a strategy to ease the migration flow. If they dont want us in the United States, we must make all of the Americas prosperous, added the president of Colombia, a country that has long been a strategic ally of Washington, and which may become even more so in the context of the Venezuelan crisis. Javier Milei, Trumps key ally Trumps main political ally in Latin America is undoubtedly Javier Milei. The Argentine leader has consistently praised Trump, repeatedly calling him the worlds foremost leader in the fight against the left, comparable only to himself. In return for Mileis devotion, Trump personally invited him to celebrate his victory at Mar-a-Lago, his Palm Beach mansion. Milei took photos, sang, danced, and delivered an emotional speech. However, Milei expects even more from his American ally: assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in securing a loan of approximately $15 billion to bolster Argentinas Central Bank reserves, which are currently in the red. The South American nation is negotiating with the IMF to replace the agreement signed by former president Alberto Fernandez in January 2022. That deal set new payment terms for the $44 billion loan originally granted to Mauricio Macris government in 2018. Mileis ultra-right administration has met the adjustment goals set by the pact, but now seeks additional funds. Milei is confident that Trump will come to Argentinas aid, just as he did for Macri. In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, Milei said Trump considers Argentina a strategic ally and a trustworthy partner. Mileis ultimate goal is to sign a free trade agreement with the United States outside of Mercosur, the regional bloc that includes Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. However, his enthusiasm could face setbacks if Trump follows through on his promise to escalate the tariff war with China and Europe. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition During the COVID-19, Destin George Bell tried to get into running. With gyms closed and limited options for exercise, Bell tried to go outside and run, but he hated it. Running, unfortunately, was not something I felt intrinsically motivated to do, Bell told the American-Statesman. Im a very competitive guy; Im a very social guy. In summer 2020, I got the idea and wondered, Could you create a fun social experience for running without having to be in the same place as other people? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking for a way to stay motivated and make running more competitive for himself, he developed an app called Card.io, a gamified fitness app that turns running and walking into a game of turf war where users compete in their city to claim territory while still tracking fitness markers like calories, speed, distance and more. Card.io, launched in Austin in 2022, now boasts over 30,000 users across all 50 states and 80 countries. In October, Bell appeared on Shark Tank and secured a $150,000 investment to further the app's growth. This adds to the $470,000 in capital already raised since its launch, which includes $150,000 in grants from Pokemon Go, the app that originally inspired Card.io. Since then, Bell has been asked whats next more times than he can count. He decided it was time to give back to the Austin trails frequented by runners, bikers and walkers alike by launching a 1 million for $1 million challenge supporting the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously after Shark Tank, a big thing everybodys asking is, Whats next?, Bell said. I thought the coolest thing we could do would be support the trail that most of the people who use our app run and also a trail I personally use. Itd be really cool to do something with (The Trail Conservancy) as a collaborative effort to raise awareness for everybodys favorite trail and the nonprofit that makes it their favorite trail. During the challenge, competitors can participate solo or as part of a team in an 'ultimate Butler Trail turf war,' aiming to raise $1 million for 1 million miles run or walked. The funds will support new trailheads, upkeep, and prolonged maintenance of the trail. Butler Trail sees about 5 million visitors every year, on par with the Grand Canyon, according to The Trail Conservancy chief operating officer Hanna Cofer. The Trail Conservancy, initially the Town Lake Trail Foundation at its founding in 2003, maintains and funds upkeep of the 10-mile hike-and-bike trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its very well loved and needs a little extra help from the community sometimes, Cofer told the American-Statesman. Its really exciting to have the community of trail lovers and runners, especially like Destin, that see the need and step up to help us fill that gap. This is the biggest undertaking by any sort of peery group thats bringing the community together to raise money to help us improve the trail. Cofer said The Trail Conservancy had received a match donor from the Bill Wood Foundation for the challenge ahead of its kickoff on New Years Day to match every dollar to support comprehensive signage and new trailheads on Butler Trail. Other funding raised from the challenge will go toward capital improvement projects, ecological restoration and general maintenance of the trail. While Bell said the company doesn't have an exact estimate of the number of participants for the challenge, several of Austin's running clubs are forming teams. Additionally, companies like Oracle, located by the river, and students from the University of Texas at Austin are also joining in. As they're walking and running the trail, we're literally tracking to see who's covering the most miles on Lady Bird Lake, who literally runs Lady Bird Lake, Bell said. And the idea is mixing in, within the prospect of just getting people to go out there and track their miles, incorporating this fun competition to see which group is most invested in running on Lady Bird Lake and who is really running the lake. And that's beyond just the general challenge and raising the money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Card.io and The Trail Conservancy are still seeking additional sponsors for the challenge and these sponsors will see their company or names on the new signage and trailheads around Butler Trail funded by the challenge. To join the challenge, competitors can register solo or as part of a group online and will need to download the Card.io app. Within the app, there will be a button to participate in the challenge and will prompt donations for every mile you run, Bell said. The challenge lasts the entire month of January and will have a kick-off party at 8 a.m. Jan. 4 at Auditorium Shores. Its like the walk-a-thon, where you get all your friends and family and clubs to pledge donations for every mile you walk or run, Cofer said. This challenge has got that fun competitive spirit, but in the digital age and with a modern twist. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Card.io kicks off Butler Trail fundraiser challenge As countries around the world race to counter the tech industrys ever-expanding influence, one issue in particular has become a major rallying cry: protecting children online. And Australia just put itself out front. In late November, Australia became the first country in the world to ban minors under age 16 from social media. Oddly enough, its an American who will help enforce the unprecedented legislation: Julie Inman Grant, who has served as Australias eSafety Commissioner since 2017. The U.S. Congress is alsoconsidering legislation to protect kids from harmful content online. But the Kids Online Safety Act, which has bipartisan support from such far-apart backers as Elon Musk and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, failed to pass this year amid opposition from top House Republicans, including Speaker Mike Johnson, who fear it will lead to the censorship of conservatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The POLITICO Tech podcast recently interviewed Inman Grant about how she plans to implement the first-of-its-kind law and what advice she has for the United States.For too long, the burden for safety has fallen on the parents themselves or the children, rather than the platforms, she said. So the way that the government designed this is to put the burden on platforms. The following conversation has been edited for length and clarity. Listen to the full interview on POLITICO Tech. You hear all the time from parents and from kids experiencing some type of harm online. Connect that work to this social media ban keeping kids under 16 off of social media. Why is that a necessary step? The government felt that the safety changes and improvements across the technology industry had been incremental rather than monumental. And I think theres been a global movement that, frankly, started with Jonathan Haidts book, The Anxious Generation. One of our premiers, who is like a governor, his wife read the book, and he came out and said, I want parental consent for kids at the age of 14. And then another state premier said, Well, I want to do this, but ban kids at the age of 16. And then every state and territory had a different plan. And then what happened was the head of the opposition party, Peter Dutton, said, We have an upcoming election. If the coalition comes in, we will institute a ban in 100 days. And then News Corp, which is a very powerful force in the Australian media landscape, was running a campaign around keeping kids safe. And so there was huge political momentum. I think the Prime Minister felt social media is not showing the social responsibility we think they need to, that theres a social license [and] we need to protect kids. What theyve done to date is not enough. I guess Id also say I dont really refer to it as a social media ban. How do you refer to it? A social media restriction bill. There are a lot of exemptions, which I think are important, and what well be working through with our minister and the government now is, what do they consider social media? I mean, kids arent posting to Facebook and Instagram like they were 10 years ago. Theres ephemeral media, like in Snap. Theres short-form videos. A lot of the messaging apps that we see today are more closely resembling social media sites. If you look at WhatsApp, its got stories and its got channels. And then online gaming platforms, of course, are facilitating social interaction through chat and through live play. So weve got to figure out whos in and out in terms of who will be impacted, and then what the requirement will be once we determine that. Anyone who has been around teens knows they can find a workaround to a lot of rules, right? And so, how do you verify age? How do you actually make sure this works? Well, Ive been working on age verification in one way, shape or form since 2008. I think you probably remember that the Harvard Berkman Center had an Internet Safety Technical Task Force where they looked at this. And I distinctly remember a quote from Richard Blumenthal, the senator today, who was the [Connecticut] attorney general then well, if we can put a man on the moon, we can certainly verify the age of a child, right? And on one hand, that made me chuckle. On the other hand, Im like, hes right except its not just a technological issue, its an ecosystem issue. And what weve seen over the past decade and a half is that ecosystem and that industry around safety tech and age assurance really maturing. So there are a range of different tools out there. Obviously biometrics can be used. Some form of government ID or digital ID. Although for this particular bill, digital ID or government ID cant be the sole way of looking at this. So what I mean by the ecosystem is we need to make sure that were balancing the imperatives of safety in terms of preventing children from accessing social media sites, particularly where there are addictive features like endless scroll, where there are opaque algorithms sending people down rabbit holes, where there is no visibility or explanation as to why theyre being served particularly harmful content, for instance. There are a range of other things that need to be considered, but we need to balance the privacy with the safety. Some of the criticisms of the law, which Im sure youve heard, especially from social media companies, is that its government overreach, or its suppressing free speech. Why is it the governments place to make some of these decisions, and not parents or school administrators or tech companies? Well, interestingly, the real political momentum did come from parents who feel like its just too hard. I mean, 95 percent of parents tell us, if youre on a social media site that has 50 different parental controls, youre lucky to be able to figure out how to toggle on one or two. So, for too long, the burden for safety has fallen on the parents themselves or the children, rather than the platforms. So the way that the government designed this is to put the burden on platforms. And after we establish whos in and whos out and what technologies can be used, I will have to develop something called the reasonable steps that companies will have to take. And you make a really good point about freedom of speech and freedom of expression. Weve done a lot of research, particularly with vulnerable communities: LGBTQI youth, those with disabilities and who are neurodivergent and First Nations youth. So on the one hand, all of these groups, because theyre marginalized, receive higher degrees of online hate. But they also say to us, being online makes us feel more ourselves than we are in the real world. Were able to find our tribe. Were able to connect and learn more about ourselves. And you know, my commitment to the young people of Australia and we have a Youth Advisory Council that actually input into this process is that were not trying to cut kids off. We still will give them the ability to be able to use messaging apps and online gaming where, you know, there are certainly some risks there, but there are a lot of healthy problem solving and connections that can happen in those fora, too. You talk to a lot of global regulators, counterparts in other countries. Is this law something you think others should emulate? Listen, in many ways, it is a big experiment, because it hasnt been done before. Were not new to implementing novel and complex legislation. When this law came out, I'm independent, so I raised concerns about what I thought was quite a bold and decisive move. But I described the water-safety approaches that Australia has been so successful in doing over the past few decades, and thats because there were a lot of very tragic drownings in backyard pools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So Australia was one of the first countries to make sure that fencing was required for every pool, and its backed by enforcement. But we havent tried to fence the ocean. In some ways, thats futile. But what we do do is, we teach kids to swim at the earliest age and to become strong swimmers throughout their lives before we let them go without supervision. We have lifeguards. We teach them to swim between the flags. Where we know there are sharks, we put up shark nets. We teach them how to swim against rip [currents] so they dont get taken out to sea, or so tired that they cant swim back to shore. So all of these things should be applied to online safety, I believe, as well. You started your career on Capitol Hill. I know you spent a number of years at Microsoft and other tech companies. How does an American become the top online safety regulator in Australia? I came to Washington, D.C. in 1991 with big ideals and even bigger hair, and big shoulder pads, too. And I worked for my hometown congressman and he looked over the cubicle one day and said, were breaking up the Baby Bells, but we also have this small little company in our electorate called Microsoft. So will you work on tech and telecom issues? So this was before there was even an internet. And then I was recruited to be one of Microsofts first lobbyists here in Washington, D.C. in 1995. So Ive been working at tech policy ground zero in Washington. When I look back at those early, heady days, none of us would have expected that Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act wouldnt have been touched by now. Of course, social media wasnt even a consideration back then. You know, Mark Zuckerberg would have probably been more interested in Dungeons and Dragons as a teenager than building the worlds for a social networking platform. Here in the U.S., lawmakers are looking at their own version of kids online safety legislation, though its not a social media ban. I wonder what you think the U.S. can learn from Australia and your approach? Ive had the pleasure over the past year or so to meet with Sen. [Marsha] Blackburn and Sen. [Ed] Markey. We just did a two-day workshop with the Department of Homeland Security and 38 tech companies around Safety by Design to tackle child sexual abuse material, and it was an incredibly successful couple of workshops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So Ive built a very different kind of regulator. Were agile, were anticipatory. We do some cooperative initiatives with companies like Safety by Design to try and encourage them, just as Congress did back in the late 60s, early 70s, following Ralph Naders book Unsafe at Any Speed and all the data that they had around embedding seat belts preventing traffic fatalities. They eventually had to legislate around the world to embed those car safety features, and at the time, the car manufacturers pushed back. But think about all the life-saving technologies we take for granted that are in our cars, from airbags to anti-lock brakes. Cars compete on their safety standards, right? And so what were trying to say is this area of technological exceptionalism, where tech companies are moving fast and breaking things and we saw that with the AI companies in 2023 maybe we need to just slow down a little bit and take that brilliant innovation, assess the risks, understand the harms and embed the safety protections upfront. So the analogy would be, embed the virtual seat belts and erect the digital guard rails to prevent the next tech wreck from happening. Do you think the U.S. needs an online safety regulator? I would be absolutely delighted if the U.S. had an online safety regulator, and one that really was focused on harm remediation. Ive, of course, been following the debate over the years around online safety in the United States, and its really been about suppressing conservative voices versus progressive voices. Its been politicized in a very different way. Online safety is very bipartisan in Australia, because I think the kind of collective value is, this is an extractive industry. Its taking revenue out. Its taking our citizens' data out. So we want to protect our citizenry, and we expect that these companies that are providing services here, and ostensibly causing some harm, are showing responsibility and are also respecting our laws. If we had a fellow regulator to work with in the United States, I think it would be game changing. Investigators are working to learn why an Oklahoma woman was jogging on a local highway before being hit and killed by a car. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As reported on News Center 7 at 6:00, Vanessa Martinez, 27, of Oklahoma, was hit on I-675 North in Miami Township just before 11 p.m. on Friday. TRENDING STORIES: State troopers said Martinez parked her car in the berm, up against the cable barriers on the left side of the interstate, and had her hazard lights on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They dont know if her car broke down or not. Thats still to be determined as we were not able to locate the keys to the vehicle, OSHP Dayton Post Lieutenant Dallas Root said. Troopers said one witness called 911 and said they saw a woman walking in the berm next to the left lane here. Shortly after, a man hit Martinez in the middle of the left lane. He told state troopers that he suddenly saw her jogging in the roadway. In that area, theres not a whole lot of lighting overhead. And she was not wearing any high visibility clothing that allowed the driver to be able to react quickly enough, Root said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers told News Center 7 that Martinez was a tenth of a mile away from her car, heading towards the I-75 interchange, when she was hit. Investigators are still working to piece together what led up to the crash. They do know that Martinez was from Oklahoma with no friends or family in the area. Were not 100% sure where she was traveling to. We have been told that she may potentially have been moving to Pennsylvania, but were still trying to confirm exactly where she was going, why she was stopped on the side of the road, Root said. OSHP is waiting on toxicology results but currently has no evidence that she was impaired when the crash occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Root said the state patrol is not looking into charges for the driver who hit Martinez. But obviously, as the investigation progresses, if theres additional details or things change then obviously well reevaluate our stance on that, Root said. Root is asking anyone who witnessed this crash, saw Martinez beforehand, or talked to her, to contact the state patrol. News Center 7 will continue to follow this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The garment industry in Bangladesh faced a slew of problems in 2024. But one of its focuses for 2025 might be figuring out how to retain workers whose jobs have been negatively impacted by automation. Joint research from the Bangladesh Labor Foundation (BLF), BRAC University and Solidaridad Network Asia shows that automation has started to slash garment worker jobs in Bangladeshs factories. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organizations said automation caused a 31 percent decline in Bangladeshs total ready-made garment (RMG) sector workforce. The majority of those workers, the organizations said, were helpers. Helpers typically take on tasks requiring lower skill levels in factories. The BLF said automation could continue to place negative pressure on jobs in the RMG sector. While automation has boosted economic growth and productivity in the sector, it has simultaneously created significant challenges for RMG workersespecially women, older employees, less literate individuals and those lacking skills or confidence, the organization wrote in a Facebook post. BLF highlighted that the studys findings only exacerbate the urgent need to work on what it calls Just Transition issues. Through that program, the BLF works to help guide workers vulnerable to climate change, automation, economic inequality and other social issues through an economic transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to LightCastle Partners, women are much more likely to be employed as helpers in Bangladeshi factories than their male counterparts. So far, the hardest-hit subsectors of the industry have been sweater factories, which saw a 37 percent decline per production line, and woven factories which saw a 27 percent drop in their respective workforces. Workers entrenched in the cutting stage of the garment manufacturing process were more likely to lose their jobs than those engaged in the sewing process. While the cutting function saw a 48 percent decrease in the number of workers employed, sewings decline came in at nearly 27 percent. The insistence on automation in Bangladeshs RMG sector doesnt seem to be letting up soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, LightCastle Partners research showed that eight in 10 Bangladeshi factory owners have plans to invest in automation within the next two years. The research further noted that, on average, factories like these employ about 2,250 workers, but only 500 of those workers will be directly involved in automation implementation processes. Because factory owners have shown a keen interest in automated systems, helping workers avert job loss may require upskilling or reorganization of roles. Experts say that, when implemented thoughtfully, automation can enrich workers lives and foster business growth. Figuring out to meld factories interest in automation with garment workers longstanding expertise could be a boon to Bangladesh in 2025. Vietnams garment manufacturing star has only continued to rise; projections show it may soon overtake Bangladeshs spot as the No. 2 apparel exporter in the world, coming in right behind China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Daily Star, a Bangladeshi media outlet, Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, the chairman of the Labor Reform Commission, said that, unless owners help workers to adapt to automations impacts, Bangladesh could become less competitive, as compared with peer countries competing for market share in garment exportation. It wont be fair to say that our workers would not be able to cope with the arrival of the machines. Rather, we have to take preparations on how to utilize the existing workforce, he said at an event highlighting the findings of the joint research. The Daily Star reported that the government plans to launch an Employment Department, which may be able to help mitigate issues onslaught by hasty implementation of automation. Azerbaijani authorities investigating last week's Azerbaijan Airlines crash in Kazakhstan are probing the "disturbing" possibility that Russian air traffic controllers may have directed the damaged plane out over the Caspian Sea, a source with knowledge of the investigation told ABC News. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Russia have all opened investigations into the cause of the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243 crash. The source -- who did not wish to be identified given the sensitivity of the ongoing Azerbaijani investigation -- said Azerbaijani authorities have "very little doubt" that flight J2-8243 was damaged by a Russian Pantsir anti-aircraft system over Chechnya on Dec. 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev suggested on Sunday that the plane was shot down by Russia unintentionally, that it "was damaged from the outside on Russian territory" and was "rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare." He cited fire from the ground for serious damage to the tail section of the aircraft and apparent shrapnel holes in its fuselage. PHOTO: People mourn at the grave of First Officer Aleksandr Kalyaninov during a funeral for the crew members killed in an Azerbaijan Airlines crash in Kazakhstan, in Baku, Azerbaijan on Dec. 29, 2024. (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized for the plane crashing, but stopped short of saying Russia was behind a strike. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Friday said, "The investigation into the air accident is ongoing. And we do not think we have a right to give any assessments and will not do so until conclusions are drawn based on the results of the investigation. We have our own aviation authorities that can do it, and this information may come only from them." The source with knowledge of the investigation said the subsequent conduct of air control officials after what they suspect to be a Russian strike on the plane was a focus of the ongoing investigation into the incident, in which 38 of the 67 people on board were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aircraft was heading northwest from the Azerbaijani capital, Baku, to Grozny in Russia -- the capital city of Russia's Chechen Republic -- when the incident occurred. At the same time, Ukrainian drones were attacking targets in Chechnya, prompting a response from Russian anti-aircraft units. Early explanations for the crash included a collision with birds and heavy fog in the area. Some Russian media organizations also suggested Ukrainian drones collided with the plane during their attack on targets in Chechnya. Russian authorities did not immediately close Chechen airspace, the source said, adding that this decision may have been negligent but does not appear to prove any intent by Russia to shoot down the incoming Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft. The doomed plane flew east across the Caspian Sea to the Kazakh city of Aktau some 280 miles away -- rather than landing in Chechnya or another closer airport, which was "puzzling" for investigators, according to the source. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Survivors of Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash report hearing bangs, explosions during flight The area was blanketed in heavy fog at the time of the incident, survivors said, forcing the aircraft to make two landing attempts at Grozny airport before it was rocked by apparent explosions on its third approach. Russia's Rosaviatsia air transport agency said Friday that the captain was offered other airports at which to land on account of the fog and drone alerts, but chose Aktau. It was not immediately clear which airports had been offered or why the plane didn't land at one of them. The investigators' "most obvious" and "most unfortunate" theory is that Russian air traffic control officials may have directed the plane over the Caspian Sea, the source said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That explanation, if it turns out to be true, is "disturbing" but possible, the source added. The aircraft ultimately crashed around 2 miles from Aktau International Airport on the Caspian Sea's eastern coast. Putin on Saturday spoke with Aliyev and "apologized for the tragic incident that occurred in Russian airspace and once again expressed his deep and sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured," a Kremlin readout said. PHOTO: Emergency specialists work at the crash site of an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet near the Kazakh city of Aktau on Dec. 25, 2024. (Issa Tazhenbayev/AFP via Getty Images) "At that time, Grozny, Mozdok and Vladikavkaz were being attacked by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, and Russian air defence systems repelled these attacks," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, Aliyev said Moscow should admit responsibility for the incident and offer compensation. "The facts are that the Azerbaijani civilian plane was damaged from outside on Russian territory, near the city of Grozny, and practically lost control," Aliyev told state television. Aliyev said he did not believe the damage was intentional, though expressed disappointment over alternate theories for the crash offered by Russian authorities in the immediate aftermath. "This openly showed that the Russian side wants to hush up the issue and this, of course, does no one credit," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Unfortunately, for the first three days we heard nothing from Russia except crazy versions," Aliyev said. MORE: Dozens dead as passenger plane crashes in Kazakhstan Russia and Azerbaijan -- which until 1991 was a constituent state of the Soviet Union -- are both members of the Moscow-centric Commonwealth of Independent States bloc. The neighboring nations retain close political, economic and security ties. Bilateral relations have become more important to the Kremlin since its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine prompted a collective Western effort to isolate Moscow on the international stage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azerbaijan, meanwhile, has pursued non-alignment and a balance in its relations with Russia and the West. The country has notably become an important source of natural gas for Europe, while also serving as a key conduit for Russian oil exports. ABC News' Dragana Jovanovic, Ines de la Cuetara and Ellie Kaufman contributed to this report. Azerbaijan Airlines crash probe looks into Russian air control conduct, source says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Dec. 30John-Paul Bulow and Tony Beck are like many other Santa Fe business owners in that they understand it can be difficult for their employees to find affordable, quality housing. But the two partners in Beck & Bulow, a business that sells premium, sustainably and ethically sourced meats, seafood and other food items, have taken the unusual step of acting on their concerns. The two have purchased a 120-acre ranch in Lamy formerly the New Mexico Girls Ranch adjacent to the train depot, where they plan to open a newly renovated, 7,000-square-foot warehouse that will greatly increase the company's operating capacity. The operation also will feature employee housing both single-family dwellings and a dormitory-like structure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're operating at about 150% of capacity now," Bulow said of the company's current warehouse, which is roughly 2,500 square feet. "The new warehouse will give us the capacity to ship, and there will be room for storage and employee housing." It's a major step up for Beck & Bulow, which was founded in 2018 in Beck's garage. In those days, Bulow said, he and Beck were peddling their quality beef, bison and seafood only to local restaurants and at farmers markets. But that has changed over the past six years. These days, Beck & Bulow offers retail, wholesale and online sales options for those interested in purchasing its beef, bison, elk, lamb, poultry, pork, seafood, wild boar and cheeses. The company also sells its products to luxury grocery stores and hotels across the country. By February, when the Lamy property is slated to open for business, things will change even more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're planning on making it a gem in Santa Fe," Beck said. "We want to make it something where Santa Feans are proud of it, and we're proud of it. This is the biggest single purchase of my life." The property features 11 buildings, including two full-size dormitory rooms. Beck and Bulow plan on renovating many of those structures over two phases of construction, the first of which will focus on tidying up the grounds and getting the employee housing and warehouse ready, along with outfitting a full commercial kitchen that will be used for community and educational events. Eventually, during the second phase of construction, the two partners hope to convert much of the space into a special event center complete with an eatery, hot tubs, a pool, hyperbaric chambers and more that can be rented by groups or individuals. "We serve some tourists [at the Beck & Bulow retail location at 1934 Cerrillos Road in Santa Fe], but this property will allow us to have more tourists come in," Bulow said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he and Beck hope to attract visitors who ride the Santa Fe Sky Railway that stops at the Lamy depot and hikers who visit the nearby Galisteo Basin Preserve. Financing for the acquisition was made possible through the New Mexico Economic Development Department's Collateral Assistance Program in partnership with Enterprise Bank & Trust, according to a news release announcing the project. The move to the new space also will allow the company to create 15 to 20 apprenticeships and internships, Beck said. The ranch comes with extensive water rights, which helped convince Beck and Bulow to go through with the deal. But it was the on-site housing that may have been the biggest factor, Beck said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the company's employees had been preapproved for loans of up to $500,000 and still couldn't find a home they could afford to buy, he said, explaining the frustration many of them felt with the Santa Fe housing market. "It's very unaffordable," he said. "I feel a vested interest in taking care of our employees." The company will benefit, as well, Bulow noted, saying the lack of affordable housing has become a significant hiring hurdle for Beck & Bulow. "That solves a big problem for us," he said. The larger warehouse with its considerable storage capacity also will allow the company to meet the growing market for its quality meats, Beck said, noting that American beef is much in demand in Mexico and Guatemala. Bulow said he believes the move will mark the opening of a new era for the company. "For us, it's a transformative deal," he said. NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) The estate of a former New Bedford fire chief killed after he shot at police has filed a lawsuit against the city. The suit was filed in Bristol County Superior Court by lawyers representing the estate of Paul Coderre Jr., New Bedfords former acting fire chief. It accuses the city of defamation, emotional distress and wrongful termination. Coderre was fired after the city claimed he was lying about the extent of work-related injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Commission rules former fire chief was not faking injuries while on leave The Massachusetts Civil Service Commission overturned Coderres termination, but the city appealed that ruling in December 2023. That same month, Coderre was shot and killed by police after shooting an officer in the leg outside the Bayside Lounge in Fairhaven. Prosecutors ruled in August that the officers use of force was justified. The lawsuit claims that Coderre was wrongfully terminated by the city and denied disability and pension payments. The suit also says that with the pending appeal, Coderres widow is unable to receive any payments, either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The multiple injustices committed against Paul Coderre Jr. during his lifetime have caused severe ongoing financial harm to his widow Jane and to Pauls memory in the community, Phil Beauregard, one of Coderres attorneys, said in a press release. The purpose of this lawsuit and other litigation to be filed in the coming months is to set the record straight and restore to Jane Coderre the financial benefits, which have been taken from her by the city mayor, Beauregard added. BACKGROUND: Police-involved shooting that killed former fire chief deemed justified The lawyers allege that Coderre suffered a psychotic break due to the public humiliation he faced following his termination, leading to the fatal incident in Fairhaven. The lawsuit does not allege wrongful death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonathan Darling, a spokesperson for New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, denied the lawsuits claims. The allegations in this lawsuit, which are the same ones made in the prior presentment letter, have no merit, Darling told 12 News. The unfortunate reality of this matter is that Mr. Coderre fired a handgun at police officers, who had no choice but to act in self-defense and protect innocent bystanders. You can read the lawsuit in full by clicking here. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. An iconic Creole-style restaurant in business for 55 years in Los Angeles New Orleans corridor is hoping the public may recognize thieves who got away with thousands of dollars in liquor and equipment during two separate break-ins this month. Harold & Belles opened at 2920 W. Jefferson Blvd. in L.A.s Jefferson Park neighborhood in 1969 and has been a beloved community eatery since. Third generation owner Ryan Legaux said the restaurant, which is between 9th and 10th avenues on West Jefferson Boulevard, was first hit by burglars on Dec. 21. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You feel like someones actually watching, the restaurant owner said of the two burglaries. Surveillance video captured at least three suspects using a crowbar to pry open the doors, where once inside they targeted the restaurants liquor supplies. Three suspects seen on surveillance cameras breaking into Harold & Belles restaurant in Jefferson Park on Dec. 21, 2024. (viewer image) Three suspects seen on surveillance cameras breaking into Harold & Belles restaurant in Jefferson Park on Dec. 21, 2024. (viewer image) Three suspects seen on surveillance cameras breaking into Harold & Belles restaurant in Jefferson Park on Dec. 21, 2024. (viewer image) Harold & Belles Creole-style restaurant open since 1969 in Jefferson Park. (KTLA) Harold & Belles Creole-style restaurant open since 1969 in Jefferson Park. (KTLA) We literally had Santa Claus coming here the next day to give out toys to some kids, Legaux explained. After footing the cost to have the backdoor replaced, thieves broke into the restaurant again, this time stealing expensive kitchen equipment. Community members and regular customers, like Hughie Barnes, told KTLA why the creole-style restaurant is so important and popular. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My husband used to bring us here when the kids were small. Its celebrating our culture, she explained. Im glad theyre resilient. Thats why theyve been here so many years, theyre resilient. As for Legaux, hes hoping that by releasing the surveillance video someone may recognize the crooks, and they may ultimately get caught. In the meantime, a GoFundMe has been organized to help the restaurant repair the damage, replace stolen items and strengthen its security. We just wanted people to be aware, to be careful, make sure they lock up their homes and businesses, he told KTLAs Angeli Kakade. While Legaux admits that the break-ins have been a setback, he said Harold & Belles was able to get back to business Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Five years after Donald Trump made headlines by canceling a trip to Copenhagen over Denmarks refusal to sell Greenland, the U.S. president-elect is reigniting the controversy. In several recent posts on Truth Social, the social network he owns, the New York businessman has declared that ownership and control of Greenland an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark is an absolute necessity. In response, the Danish government has announced an investment of at least 1.3 billion ($1.35 billion) to bolster Greenlands defense. Trump who will begin his second term in the White House on January 20 has not limited himself to pushing for the annexation of Greenland. His recent online posts have also challenged the territorial sovereignty of Panama, disputing its control over the Canal, and Canada, which he referred to as the 51st state. While the Republicans aspiration to incorporate the worlds largest island excluding Australia, which is classified as a continent might seem far-fetched, it revives longstanding U.S. ambitions. Washington previously sought to claim this strategic territory during the 18th and 19th centuries. In their book The Divider, journalists Peter Baker and Susan Glasser chronicle Trumps fixation on Greenland. I love maps. And I always said, Look at the size of this. Its massive. That should be part of the United States, Trump remarked in a 2019 interview before the books release. Greenland, geographically part of North America, is an island of immense geostrategic importance and boasts rich natural resources, including hydrocarbons and rare earth elements. Spanning nearly 849,420 square miles four times the size of Spain approximately 80% of the island is covered by an ice sheet. Despite its vast expanse, Greenland has a population of only 57,000, making it one of the least densely populated regions in the world. In August 2019, Trump canceled an official trip to Copenhagen via Twitter after Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen refused to discuss the potential sale of Greenland. The Prime Minister was able to save a great deal of expense and effort for both the United States and Denmark by being so direct. I thank her for that and look forward to rescheduling sometime in the future! Trump tweeted. Just days earlier, The Wall Street Journal had reported that Trump intended to negotiate the purchase of the island during his visit, and the Republican had no qualms about admitting this goal. On December 22, the U.S. president-elect once again provoked Prime Minister Frederiksen by announcing on Truth Social the appointment of PayPal co-founder Ken Howery as the future U.S. ambassador to Copenhagen. In his message, Trump added: For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity. Three days later, in another post, Trump wished a Merry Christmas not only to the wonderful soldiers of China, who are lovingly, but illegally, operating the Panama Canal and Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada instead of prime minister but also to the people of Greenland [...] who want the U.S. to be there. He reiterated that controlling the island is needed by the United States for National Security purposes. A hypothetical acquisition of Greenland would not be unprecedented in U.S. history. Washington previously purchased territories such as Florida from Spain, Louisiana from France, and Alaska from Russia. It would also not be the first time Denmark has sold territory to the United States. In 1917, Denmark sold the Caribbean islands of Saint Thomas, Saint John, and Saint Croix formerly known as the Danish West Indies to the U.S. for $25 million, which became known as the United States Virgin Islands. U.S. interest in Greenland dates back to at least 1867, when a State Department report highlighted the islands strategic location and abundant natural resources. We should purchase Iceland and Greenland, but especially the latter. The reasons are political and commercial, the report noted. However, a formal attempt to acquire Greenland did not occur until 1946, just after World War II. President Harry Truman offered $100 million in gold bullion for the island, but Denmark rejected the offer. Despite this, the U.S. already maintains a presence on Greenland: the Pituffik military base, established in 1943 during Nazi Germanys occupation of Denmark, serves as a strategic location for missile defense and space surveillance missions, according to the U.S. Space Force, which was established by Trump in 2019. Denmarks investment in defense Greenland was a colony administered by Copenhagen from the 18th century until 1953, when a new constitution integrated the island into the Kingdom of Denmark, granting Greenlanders Danish citizenship. Following a 1979 referendum, Greenland became an autonomous territory of Denmark, and its powers were significantly expanded in 2009 after another referendum. However, Greenlands defense and foreign policy, despite being outside the European Union, remain entirely dependent on Denmark. Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale, Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede said in response to Trumps comments. Hours later, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced a substantial increase in defense spending for Greenland. While Poulsen did not provide an exact figure describing it as a double digit billion amount in Danish kroner Danish media estimate the investment to be at least $1.35 billion. According to the minister, the funds will go toward purchasing two patrol vessels, long-range drones, additional military personnel, dog sleds for ground security, and modernizing one of Greenlands three main airports to accommodate F-35 fighter jets. We have not invested enough in the Arctic for many years, now we are planning a stronger presence, Poulsen stated. Following the 2021 elections, the ruling party in Greenland, Inuit Ataqatigiit a left-wing, environmentalist, and pro-independence party fulfilled its campaign promise by suspending hydrocarbon and uranium exploration. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that Greenlandic waters could hold up to 17.5 billion barrels of undiscovered crude oil and 4.19 trillion cubic meters of natural gas. The island also contains deposits of iron, aluminum, nickel, platinum, tungsten, titanium, and copper, as well as vast quantities of rare earth elements. These elements are crucial for the energy transition and the electronics and defense sectors, industries in which China currently holds a virtual monopoly on global production. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A youth pastor has died following a shark attack near the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Luke Walford, 40, from Rockhampton in Queensland, had been spearfishing with his family at Humpy Island, in the Keppel Bay Islands National Park, when a shark attacked him at around 4:30 p.m. local time on Saturday, Dec. 28, according to the BBC. A police report stated that he suffered life-threatening injuries and succumbed to those injuries at the popular location for diving and snorkeling just before 6 p.m. local time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His death was the first fatal shark attack in Queensland in over four years, The Guardian reported. Auscape/Universal Images Group via Getty Humpy Island, Keppel Bay Islands National Park Humpy Island, Keppel Bay Islands National Park Related: Florida Named as Shark Attack Capital of the World with U.S. Waters the Global No. 1 for Bites A leader at the Cathedral of Praise Church in Rockhampton around 400 miles north of Brisbane shared two photographs of Walford alongside touching words in a Facebook post. Its with deep sorrow that we share the tragic news of Pastor Luke Walford's passing, they wrote. Last night, we learned that he was attacked by a shark while doing something he loved spearfishing, a passion that was passed down to him by his father." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive had the privilege of watching Luke grow from a child to a remarkable young man, they continued. I dedicated him as a baby, and over the last 10 to 13 years, Ive witnessed his incredible contributions as part of our church staff. He was truly a beloved figure, especially among our young people, children, and the entire congregation," they added. One photograph showed Walford in a brightly colored shirt singing and playing the guitar, while in the other he was holding a microphone in front of a crowd. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Related: Mom of Teen in Rare Double Shark Attack Gives Update on Her Daughter After Leg Amputation: 'Lulu Is Here' Luke Walford Facebook Pastor Luke Walford Pastor Luke Walford The Facebook post encouraged members of the church to take comfort in the promises of God following his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our prayers are with Lukes family, especially his wife, his mother, and all his relatives. We ask God to strengthen them, provide them with peace, and bring them through this unimaginable time. Please continue to lift them up in prayer as they navigate the days ahead," the post added. Commenters described Walford as the most generous person as they discussed the legacy he left behind. Related: How to Avoid a Shark Attack and What to Do If Bitten? An American Lifeguard Association Expert Weighs In According to the BBC, there have been four shark attacks recorded in Australia during 2024. Overall, only the U.S. records more shark attacks each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local lawmaker Donna Kirkland told the outlet that Walford had been a friend to her and countless others. "My prayers and heartfelt condolences are with his beautiful family and indeed the many who will be devastated, as I am, at this news", she added. Read the original article on People BERLIN (AP) Berlin police said they detained a man Tuesday who attacked and injured two people in the city's Charlottenburg neighborhood, further jolting Germany days after a deadly Christmas market attack elsewhere in the country. Police said the attacker was a Syrian citizen with residency in Sweden. Initial findings indicate that the suspect may have signs of mental illness and that there is not indication for a terrorist motivation, police spokeswoman Jane Berndt told The Associated Press, adding that the investigation is still ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A police statement called it an attempted murder. It said the man attacked two men in a supermarket and on a sidewalk in front of a nearby hotel shortly before noon, allegedly stabbing them with a knife he had stolen from the supermarket. Both were taken to a hospital, and police said one was released after outpatient treatment. Berlin media outlets earlier reported that the man appeared to be randomly attacking. They reported that several passersby pounced on the attacker and overpowered him until police arrived. Charlottenburg is a normally quiet district of the German capital. Germany is still reeling from the deadly Christmas market attack this month in which five people were killed and more than 200 were injured in the eastern city of Magdeburg. A Saudi doctor was arrested on murder charges. In a separate incident Tuesday in southwestern Germany, police shot and killed a man after he stole an excavator in the town of Grunsfeld, drove it into the front of a hardware store and slightly injured three officers who chased him, German news agency dpa reported. The attacker was identified as a 38-year-old German. Bernie Madoff Victims of notorious Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff are receiving their final payments bringing the total amount doled out by a compensation fund to over $4.3 billion, the feds announced Monday. The Madoff Victim Fund began distributing its 10th and last payment of $131.4 million to more than 23,000 victims worldwide, according to the Manhattan US Attorneys Office. The Department of Justice set up the fund over a decade ago to repay people swindled by Madoff who died behind bars in 2021 while serving out a 150-year sentence. Victims of Bernie Madoffs global Ponzi scheme have been paid $131 million as a compensation funds final payment. Christopher Sadowski In total, 40,930 of Madoffs victims from 127 counties have recouped over $4.3 billion in compensation or 93.71% of their losses, the feds said. Madoffs massive ripoff believed to be the biggest stock fraud in history came to light roughly 16 years ago during the financial crisis of the late 2000s. The reviled scammer pleaded guilty to 11 financial crimes including fraud, money-laundering and perjury in 2009 for swindling investors, friends and family through the crooked wealth management company he founded in 1960. Starting around the 1990s, the fraudster collected money from others through his company Bernie L. Madoff Investment Securities with the promise hed invest it but he never did, he admitted at his sentencing. Madoff pleaded guilty in 2009 and died in prison in 2021. Getty Images His victims included charities and retirees who entrusted their life savings to him, as well as New York University, the International Olympic Committee and notable figures like former Disney studio chief Jeffrey Katsenberg, legendary baseball Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax and Hollywood couple Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick. Madoffs fraud has been tied to at least four suicides, including that of his elder son, Mark, who hanged himself on Dec. 11, 2010 the second anniversary of his dads arrest. His younger son, Andrew, also blamed Madoff for the recurrence of the rare cancer, mantle-cell lymphoma, that killed him in 2014. Madoff was sentenced to 150 years behind bars for carrying out the worlds largest fraud. Madoff was sentenced in June 2009 to a century and a half behind bars. He and his co-conspirators, including brother Peter Madoff, were forced to fork over the ill-gotten gains as part of the prosecution by the Manhattan US Attorneys Office funds used to pay back victims, the feds said. Additionally, about $2.2 billion of the victim compensation funds were collected from the estate of a deceased Madoff investor, Jeffry Picower, and another $1.7 billion came as part of an agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, according to prosecutors. This Office has never stopped pursuing justice for victims of historys largest Ponzi scheme, said Acting Manhattan US Attorney Edward Kim in a statement. Getty Images; Nikki Aye for The Advocate; Courtesy Sidetrack Chicago; Courtesy Images By Chantis; Presley Ann/Getty Images for Out.com/equalpride Nikki Aye, equalpride's digital photo editor, pulled together some of the most visually-focused stories from 2024 below. From the Supreme Court to Provincetown, these are photo-heavy pieces showing the victories, losses, and challenges we've faced as a community. As we enter 2025 bracing ourselves to keep fighting against another Donald Trump administration, there's nothing better than putting together an overview of the works that keeps us motivated and inspired to continue our phite. Take a look at the galleries below. In photos: U.S. v. Skrmetti protest at the Supreme Court in support of transgender youth (exclusive) In photos: U.S. v. Skrmetti protest at the Supreme Court in support of transgender youth (exclusive) Nikki Aye for The Advocate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why I love it: Pitched the assignment and got to go on location to photograph. I'm an activist at heart and being on the ground was exhilarating. See the full gallery here. Buy now , 70 photos of NYC Pride 2024 that show New Yorkers know how celebrate queer joy 70 photos of NYC Pride 2024 that show New Yorkers know how celebrate queer joy Getty Images Why I love it: NYC is my hometown pride, where it all started. It's always an exciting and subversive celebration and a reminder that Pride is a protest. See the full gallery here. Buy now , Nex Benedict vigils are erupting across the country. Here are powerful photos from these memorials Nex Benedict vigils are erupting across the country. Here are powerful photos from these memorials Courtesy Free Mom Hugs; Nikki Aye for The Advocate; Sue Benedict via KJHR News; Out Montclair; Donna Aceto This was made with a heavy heart and a fierce streak of visibility. The images were crowd-sourced from our audience. It's important to show queers people uniting across the country to demand action and pay respects. Nex deserved better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the full gallery here. Buy now , 72 Gag-worthy Pics from Dragcon UK's Queen's Walk 2024 \u200b72 Gag-worthy Pics from Dragcon UK's Queen's Walk 2024 \u200b Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Courtesy World of Wonder Productions, Dave Benett/Getty Images So many queens! People I know and love, plus those I've never heard of. This event's photos had amazing outfits and expressions. See the full gallery here. Buy now , 60 photos from Folsom Street East that prove New York City knows how to play 60 photos from Folsom Street East that prove New York City knows how to play Courtesy Images By Chantis San Francisco is where my queerness came into full bloom. I love seeing the fluidity of gender/power roles. Pure unbridled passion and deep human authenticity in the streets! See the full gallery here. Buy now , Out100: 2024's brightest LGBTQ+ stars walk the carpet Out100: 2024's brightest LGBTQ+ stars walk the carpet Presley Ann/Getty Images for Out.com/equalpride Here was live coverage of our pinnacle yearly event. I loved seeing so many queer stars show up to celebrate our community's culture/history/future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the full gallery here. Buy now , 60+ photos of pure queer joy from Bangkok, Thailand's Pride 2024 60+ photos of pure queer joy from Bangkok, Thailand's Pride 2024 Kan Sangtong/Shutterstock I stumbled upon this photographer while doing research for another story and fell in love with his collection of images. Cultures on the other side of the world are different, and also the same. Queer joy is everywhere! See the full gallery here. Buy now , 70 pics from Sidetrack Chicago's St. Patrick's Day party that have us green with envy 70 pics from Sidetrack Chicago's St. Patrick's Day party that have us green with envy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Courtesy Sidetrack Chicago The photos are pure fun! Sidetrack Bar in Chicago hosts amazing events for the LGBTQIA+ community and we love to see all the festivities. See the full gallery here. Buy now , 22 photos from the White House's Pride Month extravaganza 22 photos from the White House's Pride Month extravaganza Courtesy Advocate Editors; SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images Remember when we had hope for a better future? I loved seeing all my colleagues living it up at this LGBTQIA+ celebration hosted at the White House, of all places! See the full gallery here. Buy now , Fit check! A peek at LGBTQ+ fashion inside this year's Preakness Stakes horse race in Baltimore Fit check! A peek at LGBTQ+ fashion inside this year's Preakness Stakes horse race in Baltimore Courtesy Caver Imaging Pitched to me by the photographer, who we love and have worked with before. Sadly, it's small because the weather kept a lot of people at home, but some queers still came out and were dressed to the nines! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the full gallery here. Buy now , ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) Tuesday is New Years eve and stateline liquor stores are seeing an uptick of business as residents get ready to make a toast to 2025. As always, champagne is the most popular beverage for those midnight toasts. One local merchant says hes selling a ton of it at various price points ahead of the big night. Champagne is the No. 1 seller for the new near, said Basem Murad, of Sandy Hollow Food & Liquor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While champagne is synonymous with how Americans welcome the new year, it comes with a bit of a myth that one must break the bank to enjoy a good bubbly. I like some of the mid-grade champagnes, Murad said. They do taste very good actually. I like the Korbel or the Cooks or the Andre. Theyre very good champagnes, most of them. And theyre not that expensive. Murad says a good mid-grade champagne sells in the $20 to $50 per bottle range, depending on the retailer. The price goes up from there. He said the pricer stuff at his store is around $200 to $300 a bottle. In addition to champagne, some Rockford revelers are going to the top shelf for things like tequila. Murad sells a bottle of Clase Azul for about $500. And because its New Years Eve, customers have no problem pay it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why not, he said. They want to enjoy themselves. Its only once a year it happens. So, $500 is $500. They spend it, enjoy the day, enjoy the night, enjoy the new year. Others say theyll have just as much fun on New Years Eve without parting with big dollars. I usually get a bottle of champagne and maybe some stuff for mimosas the next morning, said Rockford resident Alexandra Renko. You dont have to get anything crazy. And Im a teacher, so I always try to get something somewhat affordable. Renko says shell likely spend between $15 and $20 on champagne in addition to some other beverages before she heads out on New Years Eve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the most expensive champagnes out there include Dom Perignon Rose Gold Mathusalem (1996), which sells for about $50,00, and Bollinger R.D. Extra Brut Spectre James Bond 007 Edition, which is $31,00 a bottle. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Thieves targeted cars in Bettendorf over the weekend. The Bettendorf Police Department made the following post on its Facebook page: In the early hours on December 29th, 2024 individuals were entering into unlocked vehicles and stealing items north of Tanglefoot Lane. We are looking for help identifying these individuals. Bettendorf Police Department The Bettendorf Police Department is asking anyone with video footage or other information that could help with the investigation to contact the Investigations Division at (563) 344-4024 or submit information here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. A Beverly Hills doctor has been charged with drugging and raping an employee and investigators believe there could be more victims. Babak Hajhosseini, the founder of the Wound and Burn Centers of America, was arrested on Nov. 26 and charged with sexually assaulting an unconscious person, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Hajhosseini, 42, was released on bail on Nov. 29, but was indicted by a grand jury on Dec. 23 on two counts of rape by use of drugs, one count of raping an unconscious or asleep person, one count of oral copulation by anesthesia or controlled substance, and four counts of oral copulation of an unconscious or asleep person. Wound and Burn Centers of America/Youtube Babak Hajhosseini worked in L.A. and on Catalina Island Babak Hajhosseini worked in L.A. and on Catalina Island The LAPD alleges that Hajhosseini, who also worked as a visiting physician at Catalina Island Health on Catalina Island, would entice employees to his residence by offering overtime payment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On one occasion, police say he "pressured" a female employee to drink an alcoholic beverage, causing her to pass out. He then allegedly sexually assaulted her and recorded the incident. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. While he is charged in just one sexual assault, police believe there may be other victims; authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. dr.hajhosseini/Instagram Babak Hajhosseini on Instagram Babak Hajhosseini on Instagram Hajhosseini has pleaded not guilty to the charges, according to the Los Angeles Daily News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The doctor's attorneys did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But his legal team at Werksman, Jackson & Quinn LLP issued a statement to KTLA, calling the charges "false and salacious," and contending there is "extensive evidence" to prove Hajhosseini's innocence, including polygraph test results. Read the original article on People A Beverly Hills doctor was charged with drugging and raping a woman who worked for him and police say there could be other victims. The physician allegedly used high hourly pay to entice potential victims to work at his office. Dr. Babak Hajhosseini was arrested Nov. 26 by L.A. police. (Los Angeles Police Department) Dr. Babak Hajhosseini, who founded the Beverly Hills-based Wound & Burn Centers of America, was arrested on Nov. 26 by the Los Angeles Police Department after one of his employees reported that he had sexually assaulted her, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the doctor used job recruiting websites to offer potential victims high hourly pay to entice them into working for him. Once they did, police said, Hajhosseini would pressure them to work overtime at his house. One employee alleged that she was pressured to drink alcohol at Hajhosseini's residence and that she promptly lost consciousness, police said. Hajhosseini sexually assaulted her and recorded it, according to the LAPD. On Friday, the Los Angeles County district attorney's office charged Hajhosseini with two counts of rape by use of drugs and one count of rape of an unconscious person, among other charges. A previous statement from the LAPD erroneously reported Hajhosseini was charged on Dec. 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges stem from allegations by a single person, but the LAPD believes there were other victims. Police encouraged those with information on the case to call (213) 473-0447. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Is the Bible too "sexually explicit" for minors? The Canyon Independent School District in Texas was apparently concerned that it might be. The district pulled the Bible from school library shelves earlier this month as part of a review of potentially "sexually explicit material." According to Superintendent Darryl Flusche, the district was worried about running afoul of a new Texas law known as the Restricting Explicit and Adult-Designated Educational Resources (READER) Act, or House Bill 900. "House Bill 900, which passed during the last legislative session, establishes library standards that restrict content in school libraries," Flusche wrote in a leaked email to parents, citing the section of the law defining sexually explicit material (that which "describes, depicts, or portrays sexual conduct"). "This standard for library content prohibits books that have one instance of sexual content" that meets the definition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, "numerous books, including the full text of the Bible," were verboten in school libraries, Flusche continued, pointing out that portions of the Bible were still available to students. "We are more than willing to assist a student who would like access to a Bible by arranging this from one of our partnering churches," he added. Flusche also asked parents to "share their voice with the legislators concerning HB900." Did Flusche really feel that stocking the Bible violated Texas law? Or is he simply trying to make a point about the broadness and potential unintended consequences of the READER Act? Either way, he has the wrong idea, according to the Texas state Rep. Jared Patterson (RDenton), who sponsored the bill. "Let me be very clear: the Bible, and other religious texts, are protected under HB 900. Any assertion to the contrary is either rooted in ignorance of state law or an open hostility to the will of the people," Patterson wrote in a letter to Flusche. "Not only is your interpretation of HB 900 completely wrong, but your decision to ban the Bible was likely illegal." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patterson cited a part of the Texas education code that requires schools to carry "religious literature, including the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and New Testament." Of course, that precludes the Bible from meeting Texas standards for "sexually explicit" material. It just means that Texas authorities make exceptions for certain texts portraying sexual conduct. It also illustrates further how involved the state government is in micromanaging exactly what can and can't be available in schools throughout the state. And it's kind of funny how the only "religious literature" explicitly named in the code is the Christian Bible. In any event, the Bible is now back on Canyon Independent School District library shelves, the school district said in a statement. Furthermore, it was never removed from schools entirely. "The Bible has always been, and continues to be, available in our schools to support instructional resources and meet all [statewide education] requirements," said the district. "This longstanding practice has not changed. Additionally, our libraries contain books about the Bible, including Bible stories, which remain available to our students." "Following the passage of House Bill 900, Canyon [school district] conducted a comprehensive review of library materials to ensure compliance with updated state guidelines," the district explained. "After receiving clarification from Representative Patterson regarding library content, we reevaluated the guidelines and are pleased to have the Bible available in each of our Canyon [school] libraries." The post Bible Back in Texas Schools After Being Pulled for Sexual Content appeared first on Reason.com. BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) A Plaquemine man was killed in an Iberville Parish crash on Monday night. Davonte Russ, 26, died after his bike hit a 2018 Ford Focus while trying to go across Louisiana 1. Louisiana State Police was called to the scene around 7:30 p.m. near Saint Louis Road. Troopers said the car was heading north on the highway while Russ was traveling west before the crash. After hitting the front of the vehicle, Russ was taken to the hospital in serious condition. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver of the vehicle was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was not hurt. LSP said they did get toxicology samples and they will be analyzed. The investigation into this deadly crash remains ongoing. Homicide numbers up in East Baton Rouge Parish, City of Baton Rouge as 2024 ends Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com. KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 11:32 | Sports, All Japan's Shinnosuke Oka finds himself on a path that many can only dream of after shooting to artistic gymnastics stardom in 2024, nabbing three gold medals at the Paris Olympics. With the men's individual all-around triumph, the 21-year-old from Okayama Prefecture extended Japan's dominance in the event to four Olympics after joining two-time champion Kohei Uchimura and Daiki Hashimoto on the list. With gold in the team and horizontal bar, Oka became the first Japanese gymnast to win three golds at a single Olympics since Sawao Kato in 1968 and 1972. "To be on a once-in-a-lifetime dream stage and win three gold medals, as well as a bronze on the parallel bars, I wonder if anything could make me happier," Oka told Kyodo News recently. Making his Olympic debut in France, Oka was not the favorite for either of his individual events but came up with solid, nerveless showings as his rivals stuttered. "I was 100 percent convinced I would win if I were able to put in my maximum performances. I'd been practicing to an extent that I felt it was, in fact, difficult not to win," he said of his first Olympics. "I managed to etch my name into the history of Japanese gymnastics and also matured mentally. I learned many techniques and training methods from overseas gymnasts, and they have also given me this image that I can get even stronger." Predictably, his meteoric rise has brought about changes and a level of attention that, as the new face of the sport, Oka is looking to navigate. "I'm starting to develop a sense of pride. There's no change to my desire to win, but I can no longer show uncool performances," Oka said. "(The attention) is a bit scary. I could perform relaxed as a nobody in Paris, but I'm already feeling tremendous pressure." "I don't like the title of ace, and I want to remain a challenger. But I know it's something that I definitely need to face up to." Hashimoto won golds in the individual all-around and horizontal bar at the 2021 Tokyo Games, finding himself in a similar position to where Oka is currently, but plunged to sixth in Paris in his individual event. "He remains a reliable presence (in the team) as one'd expect and we were leaving things to him. I'm sure it's been really hard for him," Oka said of the 23-year-old Hashimoto. "I want to gain plenty of experience toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and hope to lead Japan as double ace with Daiki." While Oka continues his march in 2025 amid the unknowns of being an Olympic champion, the 158-centimeter star is undeterred as he sets his aim higher. "I want to keep winning," he said. "It's something really difficult, but I want to learn new techniques, produce results and thrive in order to be a one-of-a-kind gymnast." Related coverage: Olympics: Japan gymnast Oka makes steady rise to top at Paris Games Olympics: Japan's Oka wins third gymnastics gold of Paris Games Olympics: Oka's star rises as Hashimoto loses men's gymnastics crown KAPAA, Hawaii (KHON2) A man involved in a bicycle versus motor vehicle collision on Kuhio Highway in Kapaa has died. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The incident happened just before 7 p.m. on Christmas day when a 44-year-old male bicyclist attempted to cross the intersection of Kuhio Highway and Kawaihau Road in a marked crosswalk. Statewide traffic fatalities increased in 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2008 Toyota sedan collided with the bicyclist while traveling northbound on Kuhio Highway. Kauai Police and paramedics responded to the incident. According to police, the bicyclist was then transported to Wilcox Medical Center in critical condition. He was later transported to Queens Medical Center. The Toyota driver did not report any injuries. The highway was closed in both directions for about an hour and a half while an on-scene investigation was conducted. In a Dec. 30 update, KPD shared the 44-year-old Kapaa man succumbed to his injuries and died on Dec. 27. This death marks Kauais eighth traffic-related fatality of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check out more news from around Hawaii The Kauai Police Department extends heartfelt condolences to his loved ones during this difficult time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Tech insiders say Biden is leaving a strong foundation for high-tech industry, boosting broadband access, setting a foundation for AI regulation, and encouraging chip manufacturing. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images) As hes poised to leave office in January, President Joe Biden will leave a legacy of proactive, nuanced and effective tech policy strategy behind him, technologists across different sectors told States Newsroom. Bidens term was bookended by major issues in the tech world. When he took office in early 2021, he was faced with an economy and workforce that was struggling to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, and longstanding issues with a digital divide across the country. As he prepares to exit the White House, federal agencies are working to incorporate the principles from the 2023 AI Bill of Rights, on evolving technologies that will undoubtedly continue changing American life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though he was unable to get federal regulations on AI passed through Congress, Bidens goal was to bring tech access to all Americans, while safeguarding against potential harms, the technologists said. I think everything that he does is foundational, said Suriel Arellano, a longtime consultant and author on digital transformation whos based in Los Angeles. So it definitely sets the stage for long term innovation and regulation. The digital divide For Arellano, Bidens attempt to bring internet access to all families stands out as a lasting piece of the presidents legacy. Broadband internet for work, healthcare and education was a part of Bidens 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, especially targeting people in rural areas. Biden earmarked $65 billion toward the project, which was dolled out to states and federal departments to establish or improve the physical infrastructure to support internet access. As of September, more than 2.4 million previously unserved homes and businesses have been connected to the internet, and $50 billion has been given to grant programs that support these goals across the states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arellano said he thinks theres still work to do with the physical broadband infrastructure before that promise is realized I think that should have come first, he said. But I think as a legacy, I think breaching the digital divide is actually one of the strong maybe not the strongest, but I would say its definitely a strong legacy that he leaves, Arellano said. Shaping the U.S. conversation about AI During Bidens presidency, practical and responsible application of artificial intelligence became a major part of the tech conversation. The 2023 AI Bill of Rights created the White House AI Council, the creation of a framework for federal agencies to follow relating to privacy protection and a list of guidelines for securing AI workers, for navigating the effects on the labor market and for ensuring equity in AI use, among others. The guidelines put forth by the administration are subtle, and not likely to be felt by the average consumer, said Austin-based Alex Shahrestani, an attorney and managing partner at Promise Legal, which specializes in tech and regulatory policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was something thats very light touch and essentially sets up the groundwork to introduce a regulatory framework for AI providers without it being something that theyre really going to push back on, Shahrestani said. In recent months, some federal agencies have released their guidelines called for by the AI Bill of Rights, including the Department of Labor, and The Office of Management and Budget, which outlines how the government will go about responsible acquisition of AI. It may not seem like these guidelines would affect the average consumer, Shahrestani said, but government contractors are likely to be larger companies that already have a significant commercial footprint. It sets up these companies to then follow these procedures in other contexts, so whether thats B2B or direct-to-consumer applications, thats like more of a trickle down sort of approach, he said. Sheena Franklin, D.C.-based founder of Kept Health and previously a lobbyist, said Biden emphasized the ethical use and development of AI, and set a tone of fostering public trust and preventing harm with the AI Bill of Rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Franklin and Shahrestani agreed its possible that President-elect Donald Trump could repeal some of Bidens executive orders on AI, but they see the Bill of Rights as a fairly light approach to regulating it. It was a really nuanced and effective approach, Shahrestani said. Theres some inertia building, right? Like a snowball rolling down the hill. Were early days for the snowball, but it just got started and it will only grow to be a bigger one. The CHIPS act Bidens CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, which aimed to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing, supply chains and the innovation economy with a $53 billion investment, is a major piece of his legacy, Franklin said. The bill centered on worker and community investments, and prioritized small businesses and underrepresented communities, with a goal of economic growth in the U.S., and especially in communities that needed support. Two years after the bill was signed, the federal government, in partnership with American companies, has provided funding for semiconductor manufacturing projects that created more than 100,000 jobs and workforce development programs. The U.S. is on track to produce 30% of the worlds semiconductor chips in 2032, up from 10% today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was really trying to position the U.S. as a global leader when it came to technology, because that industry is going to continue to grow, Franklin said. Its hard to quantify what the lasting impact of the CHIPS act will be, but one immediate factor is computing, Shahrestani said. The AI models being developed right now have infinite abilities, he said, but the computing power had previously held the industry back. Being able to provide more compute through better chips, and more sophisticated hardware is going to be a big part of what provides, and what is behind the best AI technologies, Shahrestani said. Accountability for Big Tech Many in the Big Tech community see Bidens AI Bill of Rights, and its data privacy inclusions, as well as the Justice Departments monopoly lawsuits against tech giants like Apple and Google, as hampering innovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arellano is optimistic about the technological advances and innovation that the U.S. may see under a less regulation-focused Trump presidency, but he cautions that some regulations may be needed for privacy protections. My concern is always on the public side, you know, putting the dog on a leash, and making sure that our regulations are there in place to protect the people, he said. Franklin predicts that if Biden attempts any last-minute tech policy before he leaves office, it will probably be to pursue further antitrust cases. It would align with his goal of fostering competition between startups and small businesses and reinforce his legacy of safeguarding consumer interests, she said. When she considered how to describe Bidens tech legacy, Franklin said she nearly used the word strength, though she said he ultimately could have done a little bit more for tech regulation. But she landed on two words: thoughtful and proactive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meaning, hes thinking about everybodys concerns, Franklin said. Not just thinking about the Big Tech and not just thinking about the consumers, right? Like there has to be a balance there. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX President Joe Bidens administration has imposed new sanctions on Russian and Iranian entities, accusing them of attempting to interfere with the 2024 U.S. election, it announced Tuesday. The Treasury Department alleges that the organizations attempted to spread disinformation related to the presidential race. In a statement, the Treasury Department said that these actors aimed to stoke socio-political tensions and influence the U.S. electorate during the 2024 U.S. election. The targets of these sanctions are a subordinate organization of a branch of the Iranian military and a Moscow-based affiliate of Russias main foreign military intelligence agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Biden Treasury Department, the Moscow-based Center for Geopolitical Expertise (CGE) worked with the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) to use generative artificial intelligence to spread disinformation. CGE also doctored a video to produce baseless accusations concerning a 2024 vice presidential candidate in an effort to sow discord amongst the U.S. electorate. The Treasury Department did not name the VP candidate who was targeted. However, in October, U.S. intelligence officials said that Russian influence actors created a fake video attempting to attack Tim Walz, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris running mate. CGE and GRU, according to the statement, used generative AI tools to quickly create disinformation that would be distributed across a massive network of websites designed to imitate legitimate news outlets to create false corroboration between the stories, as well as to obfuscate their Russian origin. Russias embassy in Washington told Reuters in a statement: Russia has not and does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including the United States. A subsidiary of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Cognitive Design Production Center, sought to incite socio-political tensions among the U.S. electorate, according to the Treasury Department. In addition, an IRGC member hacked multiple accounts of people involved in a 2024 presidential campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Intelligence officials have previously said that Iran was behind a successful breach of President-elect Donald Trumps campaign, while Google said Iranian hackers targeted both the Trump and Biden campaigns in May and June. The Governments of Iran and Russia have targeted our election processes and institutions and sought to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns, said Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley T. Smith. The United States will remain vigilant against adversaries who would undermine our democracy. These sanctions add on to ones that are already in place. Now, all property of the people described in the sanctions that are in the U.S. are blocked. In September, the U.S. restricted Russian-linked broadcasters for attempting to interfere with the presidential election. Ten Russian state media executives were also sanctioned for allegedly trying to harm public trust in our institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia previously attempted to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election to boost Trump, according to intelligence officials. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. GLENWOOD, Hawaii (KHON2) Hawaii Island police are searching for the driver of a gray Toyota pickup truck that fled the scene after striking a sedan around 9 p.m. on Dec. 28. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The accident occurred on Highway 11 between the 19- and 20-mile marker in the Glenwood area. The Toyota pickup truck was traveling toward Hilo when it struck a black Mazda sedan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The occupants of the sedan were transported to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Stunning photos show lava erupting from Hawaiis Kilauea volcano Before police arrived at the scene, the driver of the gray Toyota pickup truck was picked up by a white Toyota pickup truck, operated by an unknown driver. Police are also searching for the driver of the getaway vehicle so they can confirm the identity of the driver involved in the crash. Anybody with information regarding the identities of the drivers involved are encouraged to contact Officer Israel Mata at israel.mata@hawaiicounty.gov or contact the police departments non-emergency number at (808) 935-3311. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. WRIGHTSTOWN, Wis. (WFRV) A year and a half into a three-year contract, Wrightstown Community School District Superintendent Andy Space abruptly resigned late Sunday night after a months-long investigation into multiple allegations. Following an update on the status of the investigation at a closed-session meeting on Dec. 11, 2024, a majority of the board voted to proceed to a hearing to review concerns that included superintendent contractual matters, school purchases, open meetings law issues, legal counsel issues, board/staff relations, and insubordination, Board of Education President Angela Hansen-Winker said in a statement Monday. Google reveals northeast Wisconsins top searches of 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the school board, an outside law firm conducted the investigation, and the results were presented to the board behind closed doors, subsequently resulting in Spaces resignation and retirement Sunday night. In accepting the retirement, the board also entered into a retirement agreement with Mr. Space that resolves the year and a half remaining on his contract, ends the current review of concerns and further costs, pays severance to Mr. Space, and eliminates any further potential litigation between the parties, Hansen-Winker said in a statement Sunday night. Throughout this process, the board worked with legal counsel to ensure that all matters were handled in full compliance with applicable laws, policies, and ethical standards. Space became superintendent in July 2023 after serving as superintendent in the Beecher-Dunbar-Pembine School District. He said the decision to resign and retire took weeks to reach as he considered the priorities of his family and himself. After spending time with family and reflecting over the Thanksgiving break, I have decided to retire from my role as superintendent after the current school year, he said. This was a difficult decision to make, but its one that is in the best interest of me and my loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some community members are now questioning the validity of the investigation, which they say was even hidden from some school board members. I dont think there is any transparency. From my understanding, not even all of the board members knew that there was an investigation being done, and thats not transparent at all, parent Tina Gitzlaff said. At the very least, all seven board members should have been aware of this investigation that was pursued. Gitzlaff is part of the group Residents 4 Wrightstown Community School District, which is now aiming to recall school board members they say do not prioritize the best interests of district students, employees, and parents. The resignation of Space, which Gitzlaff claims was forced, was the last straw in a series of events, and Hansen-Winker and others involved are the ones she would like to see recalled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do feel like it was forced. I feel like she was a big part of it, but I dont think it was just her, Gitzlaff said. Because of my history of working in the district, I communicate with a lot of staff, and theres a lot of staff pretty disappointed as well. Gitzlaff personally knew and worked with Space as a parent on a committee, and she says he always had the students best interests at heart. I was able to work with him on a committee I was on last school year, for human growth and development, and hes a very student-centered and focused gentleman. I feel like its a big loss for our district, Gitzlaff said. I was really disappointed and sad to hear that. Andy hasnt been here long, and it felt like he wasnt given a chance to prove what he can do. She also believes the numerous allegations against Space are false or misconstrued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheboygan Falls Chamber mourns the loss of a dedicated local, Community dining hall named in her honor That was shocking. I would find it hard to believe that theres merit to it. Granted, I wasnt in the closed-session meeting, so I dont know for sure, Gitzlaff said. I do think they were false or at least twisted in a way that they wanted to perceive them. An interim superintendent will be appointed to fill the vacancy. Residents 4 Wrightstown Community School District has 60 days from Dec. 18, 2024, to gather signatures to present to School Board Clerk Anthony Decker in order for a recall to move forward. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed three bills, expanding affordable housing options for renters across Michigan. Senate Bills 205, 206 and 207 will expand affordable housing options in Michigan by preventing qualifying landlords from denying tenants housing based on their source of income. The bills will also combat homelessness by reducing barriers people have to overcome when finding housing. These changes will help potentially 34,290 families afford a roof over their heads and will create more affordable housing options for Michiganders across the state, said the State in a news release sent to 6 News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am proud to sign these commonsense bills that expand affordable housing options and protect Michiganders from housing discrimination, said Whitmer in a release obtained by 6 News. Whitmer also signed additional legislation to protect Michiganders testifying in the courtroom, combat human trafficking, and support economic development in the state. Senate Bill 248 will expand the age limit to have a courtroom support dog from 16 to 18, supporting a wide range of individuals when testifying. 20 other states already have similar policies in place. Senate Bills 515, 516 and 517 will help survivors of human trafficking and sexual assault by updating the process to gather and use evidence in prosecuting the perpetrators of these crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not only will these bills protect survivors of these horrific crimes, but they will also address human trafficking in our state, building a more secure Michigan where everyone can feel safe from sexual violence, said the State in a news release sent to 6 News. Senate Bill 237 will extend a tax exemption for Michigan individuals and companies investing in data center equipment. This bill will provide incentives for data centers to come to Michigan, creating jobs and supporting local economies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. A 66-year-old single woman CBS News is calling "Sue" had saved more than $2 million for her retirement and hoped to travel the world but she wasn't done looking for love. "It's like, man, I really would do better if I had a male companion," Sue said. So she turned to the dating app Match.com and quickly connected with a man who used stolen photos, claiming to be a private equity investor in the United Kingdom and called himself Santos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After weeks of nonstop romance, Santos said he needed help renewing a professional license and asked Sue for $40,000 dollars. "I was in a position, I could help a person. Why not? I never thought he was stealing or scamming. There was no reason," Sue said. But from then on, Sue says, it was full-speed into an elaborate and relentless stream of lies, deception and emotional abuse that drained her of the $2 million she had saved. More than 64,000 Americans were taken for over $1 billion in romance scams last year double the $500 million just four years earlier, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About half of people who are using dating sites say they've come across somebody who's tried to scam them, according to Rep. Brittany Pettersen, a Colorado Democrat who says tech platforms need to do a better job of protecting their users. Republican Rep. David Valadao of California echoes those concerns. The two lawmakers introduced the Online Dating Safety Act, which would require dating apps like Match.com to notify users if they've been in contact with a scam account. "No matter how advanced you think your ability to understand what's out there, they're gonna deceive so many people and we really have to get in front of this," Valadao said. After passing the House, the bill didn't get a vote in the Senate, so they'll try again next Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Sue says she wouldn't have lost all of her money if she had been informed the man who contacted her was a known scammer. In a statement, Match Group said they've already begun rolling out fraud notifications and will work with senators to finalize the bill. Although new laws are too late for Sue, she's not done fighting. When asked why she's telling her story, she said, "Because I don't want anyone to go through the hell that I've gone through. I don't want anybody to be in the hell hole that I dug with the help of a criminal." "Hail and Farewell": A tribute to those we lost in 2024 Dr. Leana Wen says for bird flu, "we should have learned our lesson from COVID" in testing How Japanese mochi brings communities in America together MADISON, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) Cases of Bird Flu continue to crop up nationwide. There is even a case here in Western Wisconsin. Experts are saying the flu spreads after migrant birds encounter domestic flocks. That could have a huge impact on Western Wisconsin farms and the farm workers who handle animals that may have the flu. Officials say the safest way to avoid the virus is to keep your birds indoors or in a coop. Experts say there are telltale signs of the flu. UW Madison Division of Extension Cultural Educator Jerry Clark explains, The birds starting to act differently, so theres going to be some type of different behavior with the birds. Theyll also typically show some virus signs, where you might see that nasal discharge, youll start to see watery eyes, and the birds just dont look healthy in general. And they usually dont get over it. Humans have similar symptoms such as fever, cough and conjunctivitis, or pink eye. If you find yourself with those symptoms, health officials recommend staying home and calling your doctor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX2548 & WIProud. KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 08:41 | All, World, Japan Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is seeking to visit the United States to meet with Donald Trump after his inauguration as president on Jan. 20, Japanese government officials said late Monday. The president-elect expressed his willingness to hold talks with Ishiba during a press conference on Dec. 16 and, according to a Japanese government source, informed Tokyo of his intention to do so possibly in mid-January before he returns to the White House. But Ishiba thought it would be desirable for both sides to hold a first formal bilateral summit when he visits the United States in February or possibly later, the officials said. Ishiba, who took office in October, told reporters last week he intended to meet with Trump "at an early date" to reinforce the bilateral alliance, noting there are "various views" within the government about when would be the best time. Some in the Japanese government favor a meeting between Ishiba and Trump in mid-January as the schedule would give the premier more time to prepare for the next parliamentary session, according to the officials. During the annual ordinary parliamentary session, which typically opens in late January, Japan's prime minister is busy attending debates to win approval from lawmakers for pressing matters such as a budget for the upcoming fiscal year which begins in April. Meanwhile, his other deputies believe Tokyo should be in no rush to arrange the bilateral meeting as it would be difficult to achieve substantial results through such an event before Trump is back in power, the officials added. The Japanese government and the ruling parties are likely to convene the ordinary parliamentary session on Jan. 24. Related coverage: Japan PM says he is willing to hold talks with Trump at early date Trump open to meeting with Japan PM Ishiba in mid-January BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) Every New Years Eve, officers with the Birmingham Police Department receive hundreds of calls regarding celebratory gunfire across the city. Over the years, this has grown to be a concern for some Birmingham residents. Its startling every time and every time I hear it if I dont know where its coming from whether its directed towards me, resident Andrew Segeman. Its a concern because you know what people got to understand what goes up must come down. These bullets go in the air they got to come back down, resident Gregory Pettaway added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What goes up must come down is a message the BPD and the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department wants people to understand ahead of News Years Eve Tuesday night. We do want you to have a good time. We do want you to bring in the new year and have fun but not going out shooting your gun, Jefferson County Sheriff Mark Pettway said. Last New Years Eve, Birmingham Police noted a number of reports of property damage as a result of gun fire along with two people injured as a result of it. Firing a gun in the city of Birmingham is illegal under any circumstances unless youre at a firing range, Ofc. Truman Fitzgerald said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fitzgerald said the department is taking extra measures to combat celebratory gun fire by adding more boots on the ground. We will have additional officers on the streets to combat celebratory gunfire also we are fortunate at the BPD we have technology at our disposal we have our specialist in the Birmingham Police Department crime center who will be working. We are fortunate that we have gunshot detection devices throughout Birmingham, Fitzgerald said. Fitzgerald said it is a federal offense if an injury or damage to property is reported as a result of celebratory gun fire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. A 43-year-old inmate was fatally beaten while handcuffed inside a New York prison and the incident was filmed on bodycam footage, leaving many outraged at the scene. Robert Brooks died on December 10, one day after correction officers hit him at the Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. The office of New York Attorney General Letitia James released the bodycam footage and has opened an investigation into the incident, which she called shocking and disturbing. Anger erupted across the state and Brooks son hopes his fathers death can be a catalyst for change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres everything we know about the fatal beating: Who was the victim? Brooks was halfway through a 12-year prison sentence after being convicted of first-degree assault, according to Department of Corrections records. His sentence began in 2017. He was transferred on December 9 from Mohawk Correctional Facility to the Marcy Correctional Facility, where he was taken to a medical examination room. Thats where video footage captured the brutal attack taking place all while Brooks was handcuffed with his hands behind his back, the attorney generals office said. Brooks was then taken to a Utica hospital, where he died on December 10. His cause and manner of death have yet to be determined by the medical examiners office but preliminary findings showed concern for asphyxia due to compression of the neck as the cause of death, as well as the death being due to actions of another. Bodycam footage shows New York inmate Robert Brooks being beaten by prison staff while restrained on a medical exam table (New York attorney generals office) Who was involved? Fourteen correction facility workers 13 officers and one nurse were allegedly involved in the incident. While one officer resigned, the other 13 were suspended without pay, according to the New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Kathy Hochul called for the individuals involved in the fatal beating to be fired. Sgts. Michael Mashaw and Glenn Trombly, correction officers Matthew Galliher, Nicholas Anzalone, David Kingsley, Nicholas Kieffer, Robert Kessler, Michael Fisher, CO Christopher Walrath, Michael Along, Shea Schoff and David Walters and nurse Kyle Dashnaw were suspended without pay, Rochester First reported. Correction Officer Anthony Farina resigned. At least three of those implicated in Brooks death Sgt. Trombly and officers Farina and Anzalone were previously named in federal lawsuits accusing them of attacking inmates, according to the outlet. One inmate was left disfigured and the other was left in a wheelchair. What does the video show? On December 21, James office released shocking and disturbing footage captured from body-worn cameras that four correction officers were equipped with during the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do not take lightly the release of this video, especially in the middle of the holiday season, she said. But as Attorney General, I release these videos because I have a responsibility and duty to provide the family, loved ones and all New Yorkers with transparency and accountability. She added: My deepest condolences go out to Mr Brooks family. The footage captures officers surrounding Brooks, who is lying on a medical exam table with his arms behind his back as correction officers punch, kick and choke him. Footage captures them shoving him around like a rag doll. At one point, Brooks sits up, revealing his bloodied face. In one video, an officer is seen stuffing a white material in Brooks mouth before punching him in the face. At the same time, a second punches him in the groin while a third appears to have his hand pressed to the inmates throat. The third officer then hoists Brooks up to a seated position by his neck as another hits Brooks with a shoe. Bodycam footage captured correction officers beating a handcuffed man, Robert Brooks, 43, at the Marcy Correctional Facility. Thirteen people involved in the incident have been suspended without pay What prompted the attack? Its not immediately clear what prompted the fatal beating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cameras were in standby mode during the incident, so they had no sound, meaning it was not clear what was said leading up to or during the attack. Neither the Department of Corrections employees nor their lawyers have spoken out. The Correctional Association of New York, an independent prison watchdog in the state, called the fatal incident a vicious assault and cited its July 2023 report finding that 70 percent of incarcerated people at the Marcy facility reported racial discrimination or bias. The associations executive director said the visit to the Marcy facility revealed pervasive allegations of racial discrimination and mistreatment by staff, including Black inmates being turned away from the mess hall for wearing their hair in cornrows or braids. What was the reaction? The gruesome attack has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for justice reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Manhattan this week, demonstrators marched through Times Square with signs that read No Justice, No Peace. In Albany, organizers held a rally outside the governors mansion on Monday, News 10 reported. In the wake of the incident, the governor condemned the attack. The vast majority of correction officers do extraordinary work under difficult circumstances, and we are all grateful for their service, Hochul said in a statement. But we have no tolerance for individuals who cross the line, break the law and engage in unnecessary violence or targeted abuse. Department of Corrections Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III promised to address a culture of brutality in the wake of the deadly attack. It is not enough to simply condemn this horrific act and then go back to business, Martuscello said in a statement to CNN. Institutional change must follow, and we have already begun to take proactive steps to ensure that nothing like this can ever happen again within our facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state correction officers union called the incident incomprehensible and not reflective of the great work that the vast majority of our membership conducts every day, WKTV reported. New York Attorney General Letitia James speaks in February. She called the events leading to Brooks death shocking and disturbing (AP) Brooks family is incredibly shocked and saddened about his death, the family said in a statement to The Times-Union. We are grateful that Gov. Hochul is taking swift action to hold officers accountable, but we cannot understand how this could have happened in the first place, the statement continued. No one should have to lose a family member this way. In Rochester, the community held a vigil for Brooks on Monday night; about 150 people attended, the Democrat & Chronicle reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robert Brooks Jr, the son of the deceased inmate, told WIVB that his father had a loving, generous heart and a special concern for young people. Our deepest wishes are that my fathers death will not be in vain. His killing must be a catalyst for change, he added. Our family has focused on supporting one another. But the circumstances surrounding my fathers death has been massively hard. We are taking one thing at a time. Whats next? None of the workers implicated have been formally charged with wrongdoing. On Monday, Hochul directed Martuscello to appoint a new superintendent at Marcy Correctional Facility and expedited $400 million to install fixed cameras and distribute body-worn cameras in all of the states correctional facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state attorney generals office, FBI and DOJ are investigating the deadly attack. A lawyer for Brooks family told The New York Times on Monday that they watched the graphic footage and plan to secure justice. As expected, watching the horrific and violent final moments of Roberts life was devastating for his loved ones, and will be disturbing to anyone who views the video following its release by the attorney generals office, Elizabeth Mazur told the outlet. We will not rest until we have secured justice for Roberts memory, and safety for the prisoners at Marcy Correctional Facility. Glynis Johns described a break-in at the Black Scranton Project Center for Arts & Culture as traumatic and scary. On the afternoon of Dec. 9, an unidentified man wielding a pocket knife gained unauthorized entry to the building on North Main Avenue in Scranton, officials said. Although nobody was injured and the property didnt sustain any major damage, the incident led officials to launch the Locks & Legacy: BSPCAC Security Fund in an effort to improve security measures around the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donations will help officials make important upgrades such as reinforced locks, advanced alarm systems and expanded surveillance cameras. Its more of a need because we dont really get that much grant support, said Johns, founder and CEO of the Black Scranton Project. It takes a lot of effort for us to actually move as a nonprofit, especially with a team of three. Its been pretty difficult just to keep up with everything, and then this happened. Its up to us to continue to make the space safer so we can have it open to the public. Johns estimates it will cost more than $25,000 to make all the necessary improvements including replacing a door, installing new locks, adding more cameras and upgrading security systems. She noted the nonprofit already raised about $3,000 to $4,000, which allowed officials to start purchasing additional cameras. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im grateful for the people who support us and follow along with what were doing and have helped us with donations, Johns said. Im hoping we can raise enough funds to do all the upgrades. The main issue is the door. Because its an old bank security door, its not just a simple project. Other than making a monetary donation, community members can help the organization in other ways, such as spreading information about its mission, following developments on social media or offering expertise with security systems or building infrastructure. In 2018, Johns created a Black-owned business directory for the Northeast Pennsylvania region to bring attention to those firms. When I travel, I always look up and support Black businesses all around the country and world, she said. I know its a resource many people use and we get submissions regularly. Its really cool to see how its grown. I love that its become one of the most visited pages on our website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, Johns secured an empty storefront at the Marketplace at Steamtown for a six-week pop-up installation. The exhibit attracted 1,200 visitors and led to her forming the Black Scranton Project, which was incorporated on Juneteenth that same year. Two years later, the nonprofit received the vacant bank building at 1902 N. Main Ave. as a donation from PNC Bank. The Black Scranton Project aims to uplift the creative and cultural spirit in the Scranton area by supporting community artistic and ethnic representation in an effort to elevate the core of neighborhood culture, per a note on its website. Johns strives to increase the number of programs held at the center with a goal of hosting at least one event a month outside of June and February throughout 2025. We try our best to do as many events as we can throughout the year, Johns said. Black History Month is coming up (in February) and we do a monthlong event series, and Juneteenth is one of our biggest events with a block party. Weve collaborated with a lot of organizations in the community such as the Scranton Fringe Fest, the Marywood Stars Program, and other local organizations like Rhythm & Rhymes and Beyond Ur Expectations. We try to integrate with the community, especially since were not open 24/7. Weve had private events and meetings of other organizations, and in between we try to open when we can to share local history. Dec. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Monday with leaders of Venezuela's democratic opposition to reaffirm U.S. support for the Venezuelan people, and their votes "expressed at the ballot box," amid ongoing calls to release unjustly detained political prisoners. Blinken spoke with opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who President Joe Biden has recognized as "president-elect," and Maria Corina Machado to express U.S. condemnation of Nicholas Maduro's "anti-democratic actions" ahead of his inauguration next week. Maduro is scheduled to be sworn-in on Jan. 10, for the 2025 to 2031 presidential term after claiming victory in the July 28 election, despite what Washington, D.C., called "overwhelming evidence" that Gonzalez received the most votes. Venezuela's high court, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice, certified Maduro as the winner in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since July's election, thousands of protesters have demonstrated over voter fraud and other election irregularities to demand a fair count. In response, Human Rights Watch said it has documented Venezuelan authorities and pro-government armed groups committing abuses, killings, detention and prosecution of protesters. Blinken "commended the democratic opposition's resilience and the Venezuelan people's commitment to democracy in the face of repression and adversity," according to Monday's statement by State Department spokesperson Mark Miller. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia (R), who President Joe Biden has recognized as president-elect, and Maria Corina Machado (L) to express U.S. condemnation of Nicholas Maduros anti-democratic actions ahead of his inauguration next week. File Photo by Ronald Pena R./EPA-EFE On Sept. 2, a judge issued an arrest warrant against Gonzalez for "conspiracy" and "incitement to disobedience." Gonzalez fled the country and is now living in exile in Spain. He has vowed to return to Venezuela next month to inaugurate his own government. Since March, six people identified as members and supporters of Machado have been sheltering in the Argentine embassy in Caracas over fears of arrest. On Nov. 24, security forces surrounded the embassy, where Machado's international coordinator Pedro Urruchurtu said they have been subjected to blackouts and denied access to drinking water. Nicholas Maduro is scheduled to be sworn-in on Jan. 10 for the 2025 to 2031 presidential term after claiming victory in the July 28 election, despite what Washington, D.C., calls overwhelming evidence that Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia received the most votes. File Photo by Ronald Pena R./EPA-EFE On Saturday, Venezuelan activist Magalli Meda said the opposition members have been without electricity for 35 days in the "prison embassy," which she declared a human rights violation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I recommend that the international diplomatic world keep an eye on diplomacy in Venezuela and the rule of law regarding what is happening here," Meda added. "The pressure from the government has been escalating in the last few weeks. Psychological torture, we are under constant surveillance and nobody can visit us without authorization ... the spiritual damage we are subject to is tremendous," one of the political asylum seekers Omar Gonzalez told a virtual press conference earlier this month. "It's important to point out that there are six civilians, political activists that the only crime they committed is fighting for a free Venezuela," Omar Gonzalez continued, "and we are threatened and in isolation and every day it gets worse." BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) A Bloomington man will likely spend the rest of his life in prison after being sentenced Monday for a deadly New Years Eve shooting in Normal five years ago. Dewon Griffin, 24, was sentenced in McLean County Circuit Court to 87 years in prison in connection with the Dec. 31, 2019, death of 17-year-old Tariq L. Houston. The senseless loss of Tariq Houston to firearm violence is heartbreaking. Tariqs life, filled with promise, was tragically cut short, leaving a void felt deeply by all who knew him, said Normal Police Chief Steve Petrilli. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last summer, a McLean County jury found him guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and for being a felon in possession of a weapon. Because the jury found him to be the triggerman, he faced at least 45 years and possibly up to life in prison on the murder count. The other counts carry a three-year minimum sentence. Judge William Yoder handed down an 80-year term for the murder. Griffin must serve 100% of that portion of his sentence with credit for nearly five years already served. That means, barring a successful appeal, he will likely never leave prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Houston was found lying in a parking lot that was in the 1700 block of Putnam Avenue in Normal. He had been out there for a social gathering. After he was found with a gunshot wound to his abdomen, Houston was rushed to an area hospital where he later died. Normal police quickly developed leads which led to a warrant being issued for Griffins arrest on Jan. 2, 2020. He was found a few days later hiding in a crawl space in a Bloomington house. This story will be updated. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. Heavy traffic moves along the 101 freeway in Los Angeles. Californias federal waiver to set stricter limits for automotive emissions is likely to be one of the environmental rules that President-elect Donald Trump will attempt to roll back. (Mario Tama | Getty Images) President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to slash federal climate, clean air and clean water regulations during his second term an agenda that could target rules governing everything from auto emissions to power plant pollution to drinking water standards. Trump has said that Lee Zeldin, his nominee to lead the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Business groups and many Republican leaders are cheering Trumps plan to weaken environmental protections, arguing they are too strict and harm the economy. But in states that have focused on tackling climate change and pollution, attorneys general and lawmakers are preparing to fight back by filing lawsuits, enacting their own regulations or staffing up state environmental agencies. State leaders say theyve been battle tested by the first Trump administration, in which his agencies tried to roll back more than 100 environmental rules. Courts struck down many of those rollbacks after legal challenges. One of the things we learned during Trump 1.0 is that Trump has an enormous capacity to break the law, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a Democrat, said in an interview with Stateline. Theres a way for regulations to be created, and a way for them to be changed. If the law isnt followed, as it often was not during the first Trump administration, we will sue, and as in the past, we will win. Of the roughly 120 lawsuits brought by California against the first Trump administration, 70 were environmental cases, Bonta said. The state won a majority of those cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bontas office will be one of the lead players in efforts to stop Trumps deregulatory agenda. Hes asking state lawmakers to increase his agencys staff and budget as it prepares for four years of battling with the federal government. Trench warfare Environmental advocates say theyre not sure which environmental rules Trump will attack first. The best bet is the EPAs waivers that allow California to set its own limits, stricter than federal rules, for automotive emissions. Many other states, comprising 40% of the light-duty vehicle market, follow the California standards. [California] needs federal support on reducing transportation emissions, really centered on our waivers from the EPA, said Ethan Elkind, director of the climate program at the Center for Law, Energy & the Environment at the UC Berkeley School of Law. Thats where were most vulnerable. Trump sought to revoke Californias waivers during his first administration, an effort that was tied up in legal battles for the entire term. California leaders say the Clean Air Act does not allow the EPA to arbitrarily strip its waivers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following last months election, California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom visited Washington, D.C., to push the Biden administration for rapid approval of eight additional waivers, covering heavy-duty vehicles, yard equipment, trains, cargo trucks and other categories. Meanwhile, 17 red states, led by Ohio, filed a legal challenge earlier this year to Californias authority to exceed federal auto emissions standards. Theyre seeking to have the case taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court. The Trump administration would likely back that effort, and environmental groups fear the conservative-leaning court could threaten the long-standing waivers. Attorneys general in numerous blue states also are preparing to play defense on a host of other rules issued by the Biden administration. They could include power plant emissions, methane leaks from oil and gas operations, PFAS pollution in drinking water, water quality on tribal lands, endangered species and permitting for infrastructure projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump will likely also attempt to ramp up oil drilling on public lands, cancel funding for clean energy projects and halt offshore wind leases. In liberal states, officials say those actions would threaten their work to fight climate change and protect the environment. Leaders on both sides expect a busy four years for lawyers. The idea of Trump-proofing [environmental policy] basically just means being ready to go to court, Elkind said. Its going to be trench warfare in the courts. State backstops Some states again may seek to enact backstop state laws if federal protections are repealed. For instance, California lawmakers considered a bill in 2017 that would have given state-level protections to all species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. That way, if Trumps wildlife officials stripped species from the list, they would still be protected under California law. States will continue to act, because the demands for clean air and water and safer products are there. Sarah Doll, national director of Safer States That measure did not advance, but with Trump taking office again, lawmakers could have newfound interest in protecting endangered species at the state level, said Dylan McDowell, executive director of the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators, a collaborative forum for state lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats an area where states can really focus on strengthening things within their own borders, McDowell said. States can look at the existing federal standard and set it as a floor rather than a ceiling. If Trump rolls back other rules on issues such as water quality, state lawmakers could start having similar conversations. States often have the authority to set standards that are more stringent than the federal government, noted Stan Meiburg, executive director of the Andrew Sabin Family Center for Environment and Sustainability at Wake Forest University. That becomes the question that states have to face: Is the protection we have left adequate to meet the environmental values we have as a state? he said. If its not, you need state legislation to protect that. Its unclear how Trump will act on some issues, including PFAS, or forever chemicals a class of chemicals used in a host of consumer goods that dont break down naturally and have been shown to increase health risks. Earlier this year, the EPA issued drinking water standards to limit exposure to the dangerous chemicals, following years of bipartisan work at the state level to deal with contamination issues. However, some industry groups and drinking water utilities have pushed back on the federal rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of whether Trumps EPA tries to revoke the rule, environmental advocates expect state lawmakers to continue their work on the issue. There is bipartisan support for PFAS protections, said Sarah Doll, national director of Safer States, an alliance of environmental health groups focused on toxic chemicals. States will continue to act, because the demands for clean air and water and safer products are there. Staffing concerns In addition to rollbacks of specific rules, Trump could cut funding and staffing for the EPA. Some states fear that an understaffed EPA would leave them without critical support for monitoring, analysis and enforcement of air and water quality. If theres going to be cuts at the federal level, we need to make those up at the state level, said Massachusetts state Sen. Jamie Eldridge, a Democrat. There already wasnt sufficient staffing in our state environment and climate agencies. Thats an area where I hope theres a greater focus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In New York, lawmakers in 2022 tried to enact protections for certain streams after the first Trump administration weakened safeguards for such waterways. But the effort failed because state regulators said they lacked the capacity to oversee a new program, said Democratic Assemblymember Deborah Glick. There has been some rebuilding underway [at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation], and it will need significant improvement, Glick said. Weve been trying to backfill openings. Cuts at the EPA could add to the burden facing the state agency, she said, a factor that budget writers in the state legislature will have to consider. Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. Follow Stateline on Facebook and X. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A black BMW X1 was struck by gunfire Sunday evening while traveling northbound on I-405 near SR 169, according to the Washington State Patrol. The incident occurred around 7:40 p.m. when a suspect in a silver Ford Crown Victoria fired several shots at the BMW, hitting the left rear door. No injuries were reported. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspect vehicle to contact the Washington State Patrol. Several airlines retired the Boeing 747 during the pandemic and Boeing stopped production. But the iconic "Queen of the Skies" is still operated by several country's governments and royals. That includes China's Xi Jinping and the Saudi King, who boards on a golden escalator. The Boeing 747 has become one of the most iconic airplanes ever built since it was introduced in 1970. The double-decker aircraft pioneered the use of the term "jumbo jet." But the "Queen of the Skies" is growing old, and its four engines are thirstier than newer, more fuel-efficient jets. During the pandemic, airlines like British Airways, KLM, and Qantas retired their 747s, and Boeing decided to end production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A handful of Boeing 747s are still flying commercially, but you're more likely to see one carrying cargo. Yet sometimes, reputation outweighs efficiency. The 747 is still the jet of choice for 11 governments and royal families around the world. Air Force One is the most iconic although technically, it's not a 747 but a militarized version called the VC-25A. The jumbo jet is most popular among leaders in Asia, primarily the Middle East. In alphabetical order, here are the countries that have their own Boeing 747s. Bahrain An honor guard welcomed Bahrain's king to Amman, Jordan. REUTERS/ Muhammad Hamed The Kingdom of Bahrain, an island country in the Persian Gulf, is one of many oil-rich nations on this list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bahrain Royal Flight operates two 747-400s which are both over 20 years old. They are used to fly King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and his family. Brunei The Sultan of Brunei deplanes from his Boeing 747. RAAD ADAYLEH/AFP via Getty Images The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, is one of the flashiest leaders in the world. His palace has over 1,700 rooms, more than 2 million sq ft of space, and a 110-car garage. One of the few absolute monarchs on this list, he has one Boeing 747-8, which is operated by the airline Sultan's Flight. Sultan's Flight previously had another two 747s. Its current fleet also includes a Boeing 767 and a Boeing 787 Dreamliner that was delivered in 2018. China President Xi Jinping at Russia's Kazan Airport. Alexander Vilf/BRICS-RUSSIA2024.RU/via REUTERS China is the only country whose governmental Boeing 747 is actually operated by its flag carrier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the Air China livery, it looks the same as the airline's eight 747s on the outside. However, the one registered B-2479 is said to have been kitted out for the government to use. During Xi Jinping's visit to South America in November, Air China deployed another 747 for other personnel, as well as a cargo version that carried a luxury Hongqi car, Simple Flying reported. Morocco King Mohammed VI (left) after his 747 flew to Buenos Aires in 2004. REUTERS/Gustavo Fazio-Senado Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morocco has the lowest GDP per capita on this list, of $4,204. However, the royal family is one of the richest: Forbes estimated that King Mohammed VI had a net worth of $5.7 billion in 2015. There are two jumbo jets registered to the country's government: a 747-400 and a larger 747-8. It also owns a Boeing 737. The 747s have "Kingdom of Morocco" written on the side in Arabic, and stripes in the flag's colors of red and green. It's similar to the former livery of the country's flag carrier, Royal Air Maroc. Oman The Sultan of Oman disembarks his Boeing 747 in Abu Dhabi. Abdulla Al Neyadi/UAE Presidential Court/Handout via REUTERS Like Brunei's leader, the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq also heads an absolute monarchy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oman Royal Flight operates two Boeing 747s. The older 747-400 was delivered in 2001, while a newer 747-8 was delivered in 2012. The Sultan also owns a business-jet version of Airbus' A320 and A319 jets. Qatar Qatar's Boeing 747 at London Stansted Airport in December. Joe Giddens/PA Images via Getty Images The Boeing 747 pictured above may look like a Qatar Airways plane from the outside, but it is only used to transport the country's ruling Al-Thani family. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife, Noora bint Hathal Al Dosari, arrived on one of their two 747-8s when they visited the UK in December. Qatar Amiri Flight has 13 planes in total the most of any on this list. Bloomberg estimated the family's fortune to be $150 billion. The country's sovereign wealth fund has myriad investments around the globe, including a substantial stake in London Heathrow Airport. Saudi Arabia A man stands atop the escalator leading to Saudi Arabia's Boeing 747. REUTERS/Beawiharta Saudi Arabia has the richest royal family in the world. Including its holdings in state oil company Aramco, some estimates put the figure over $1 trillion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among its six active jets is one Boeing 747-400, per ch-aviation data. 88-year-old King Salman travels with a 1,500-person entourage and two Mercedes Benz limousines, The Points Guy reported. He also has a golden escalator to board and deplane the 747 which once malfunctioned on a trip to Russia. Saudi king's golden escalator gets stuck after he lands in Russia on first official visit https://t.co/5KFXmyMaN8 pic.twitter.com/S3ood2biLd BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) October 6, 2017 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee board South Korea's 747. Kim Sunjoo/Courtesy of Korean Culture and Information Service South Korea's presidential jet is known as Code One an upgraded 747-8 leased from flag carrier Korean Air. It's the newest plane on this list, in service since January 2022. "From decorating the exterior of the plane to remodeling the inside of the plane with customized facilities for the president, such as an office room and sleeping area, the plane needs to reinforce its protection function for the security of the president," an industry inside told The Korea Herald. Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Abu Dhabi on TC-TRK in 2022. dia images/dia images via Getty Images After opposition politicians expressed concern about using taxpayers' money to buy a jet, Qatar's Al-Thani gifted Turkey a $500 million Boeing 747-8 in 2018, per the BBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two countries grew closer after Turkey supported Qatar during a diplomatic crisis from 2017 to 2021, when other Arab states cut off ties. The Turkish government also owns four Airbus planes. United States Joe Biden deplanes Air Force One in Phoenix. Elizabeth Frantz/REUTERS Air Force One is perhaps the most iconic governmental plane. However, it stands out from the rest because it isn't technically a 747. Instead, it's a militarized version called the VC-25A, meaning it can do things like refuel in midair. However, it's over 30 years old, with two new ones in the pipeline. In his first term, Donald Trump renegotiated the contract with Boeing to limit costs below $4 billion. He most likely won't get to fly on the new jets, though, with delivery now expected in 2029. Read the original article on Business Insider By Ayuko Kiyoshi, KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 08:20 | Feature, All, Japan There is a Japanese proverb that means making an already strong person or thing even stronger. It is also the title of an NHK serial drama that aired this year, "Tora ni Tsubasa" (adding wings to a tiger), based on the true story of Yoshiko Mibuchi, one of Japan's first female lawyers in prewar Japan who later became a judge after World War II. The series, broadcast from April 1 to Sept. 27, coincided with a milestone in the fight against gender inequality, as women surpassed 30 percent of successful applicants in the 2024 bar examination for the first time in its history. In Japan's legal professions, as in other sectors, women's advancement has been slow, even 84 years after Mibuchi and two other female candidates became lawyers. But Japanese women in 2024 took the two top positions for lawyers and public prosecutors -- president of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA) and prosecutor-general, the head of the Public Prosecutors Office. Women accounted for 30.21 percent of successful bar exam applicants, with 1,111 males and 481 females passing. The total number of examinees was 3,779, a decrease of 149 from 2023. "It's a step forward in correcting gender biases in the legal community," one legal professional said. According to the Japan Women's Bar Association, women were barred from legal professions until the Attorneys Act was revised in 1936, allowing them to take the higher judicial examination. Mibuchi, Masako Nakata and Ai Kume passed the exam in 1938 and became lawyers in 1940. When the former "national bar examination" was held for the first time in 1949, only a handful of women were among the approximately 250 successful applicants, according to Justice Ministry data. Mibuchi became one of Japan's first two female judges that same year, following the enforcement of the country's new Constitution two years earlier. Starting in the 1960s, the number of women passing the bar exam grew to between 20 and 30 annually, with the ratio reaching 20 percent by the 1990s. The new national bar exam was introduced in 2006, and since 2020, women have accounted for over 25 percent of successful candidates. Thirty percent is often seen as the "critical mass," the point at which a minority can drive meaningful change within an organization. The ministry aims to increase the proportion of women prosecutors to 30 percent by the end of fiscal 2025, up from 27.2 percent in March 2023. "I am truly delighted" with the 2024 bar exam results, said Reiko Fuchigami, 70, who took up the JFBA presidency in April, becoming the first woman from the three legal professions of public prosecutors, judges and attorneys to hold the position. Fuchigami passed the bar exam in 1980 when the ratio of successful female applicants topped 10 percent for the first time. While her male peers, during a one-year legal training period, quickly found jobs, she barely landed one just before the end of the program as she was told by law firms that she visited that they did not hire women. "It was demoralizing," she recalled. Among the three legal professions, the ratio of women is highest for prosecutors, followed by judges and attorneys. And for public prosecutors, where the ratio approaches 30 percent, Naomi Unemoto, 62, was appointed prosecutor-general in July 2024. Although the ratio of female lawyers has recently reached 20 percent, challenges remain, including income inequality stemming from companies' reluctance to appoint women as corporate lawyers. Additionally, there is a need to foster a workplace culture that supports women continuing their careers after childbirth. "It's important not to lose opportunities for women to excel," Fuchigami said. Gender imbalance in the legal professions creates "differences in sensitivity between men and women about violence against women and real-life experiences such as the time and economic costs of childrearing," said Toko Teramachi, a 56-year-old lawyer familiar with sex crimes. In sex crimes and divorce cases, there are factual findings that are sometimes at odds with reality, she said. Teramachi said the judiciary has a role to play in safeguarding the human rights of minorities excluded from measures determined by majorities. As more women experience unfair treatment or discrimination, it is important that "a sensibility toward minority people grows" through an increase in their presence in the legal community. Related coverage: Women's wages 70-80% of men's in Japan as gender gap remains Japan to back women's peacemaking role at African development confab Women compete in kendo at Japan's martial arts Mecca for 1st time JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Boil water notices have been issued for four Mississippi water systems after Saturdays severe weather. 22 tornadoes touched down in Mississippi on Saturday According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), the following systems experienced a pressure loss or power outage due to storm damage: Town of Bude (Franklin County) Affects 422 customers Mt. Olive Water Association (Hinds County) Affects 380 customers Town of Utica (Hinds County) Affects 387 customers Coles Water Association #1 (Amite County) Affects 260 customers. Health officials strongly recommend that all water be boiled vigorously for one minute before it is consumed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Stockbridge police gave the all clear after someone called in a bomb threat on Monday that turned out to be a hoax. Police responded to the parking lot area of Piedmont Henry Hospital Monday afternoon after Henry County 911 dispatch received a threatening call. Officers cleared the parking lot and K-9 teams searched for a threat but were unable to locate one. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The department determined the threat was a hoax and reopened the parking lot and surrounding roads. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Columnist Jay Bookman says a relative handful of very wealthy people have made school vouchers their pet vanity project, using multi-million-dollar campaign chests to try to refashion state legislatures all across the country to do their will. (Getty Images) School vouchers are unpopular. They are unpopular with liberal voters. They are unpopular with conservative voters. In modern American politics, it is rare to find such agreement, with voters of all stripes recognizing that they pose an existential threat to public education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet somehow, in Georgia and other states, voucher programs continue to be implemented against what appears to be strong bipartisan opposition. How is that happening? Its happening because a relative handful of very wealthy people have made school vouchers their pet vanity project, using multi-million-dollar campaign chests to try to refashion state legislatures all across the country to do their will. Jeffrey Yass of Pennsylvania, Betsy DeVos of Michigan, Richard Uihlein of Illinois, Charles Koch of Kansas and other billionaires are all funding crusades in states where they dont live, threatening the health of public schools that their kids will never attend, because they believe they know better than residents of those states how their children should be educated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Texas, for example, Yass and others donated tens of millions of dollars to remove conservative legislators who had dared to vote against a universal voucher program. In legislative races, $10,000 can do a lot of damage, and in November they succeeded in removing 15 conservative anti-voucher legislators, replacing them with candidates willing to do their bidding. In states such as Georgia, where public opposition has continued to frustrate straightforward attempts to implement universal vouchers, proponents have resorted to political intimidation, deception and bait-and-switch legislation to accomplish their goals. Lets start with the assertion that vouchers are highly unpopular. In every single state, liberal or conservative, in which voters have had a chance to directly voice their opinion, pro-voucher referendums have been defeated, and usually by overwhelmingly margins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It happened most recently last month in Nebraska, a conservative state that Donald Trump carried by 20 points. If vouchers are truly a grassroots conservative cause, with broad popular support, surely you would expect them to be popular in the Nebraska heartland. Yet Nebraskans voted overwhelmingly, 57% to 43%, to repeal a voucher program that their state legislators had tried to impose on them. It was the third time that Nebraskans have directly voted against using taxpayer money to fund private schools. In Kentucky, the story was much the same. State legislators, goaded by out-of-state donors, needed to change the state constitution to allow vouchers, but doing so required that they get voter approval. It didnt happen. In a deep-red state that Trump carried by 30 points, the proposed voucher amendment was rejected by 30 points. It failed in every one of the states 120 counties, rural and urban. Its also important to note that the distorting effect of huge sums of campaign money from billionaire voucher proponents is not felt solely in legislative races. Republican megadonors have also made it clear to politicians with ambitions for higher office that if they want the type of large donations needed in national races, they better toe the line on vouchers. So here in Georgia last year, Gov. Brian Kemp helped to strong-arm the state Legislature into narrowly passing what was sold to legislators and the public as a very limited voucher bill, estimated to provide $6,500 in taxpayer money to pay private-school tuition to students in the lowest-performing 25% of Georgia schools. As part of that bill, legislators authorized spending for vouchers for as many as 22,000 students who are supposedly stuck in those poor-performing schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Except . Suddenly, state education officials have reread that new law and now claim that it makes as many as 400,000 Georgia students eligible for vouchers, including hundreds of thousands who do not attend a low-performing school. That is a number that was never heard or seen during debate on the legislation. State Rep. Chris Erwin, chair of the House Education Committee, told the Associated Press that wasnt how the law was intended to work and he wants it rewritten. House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones joined him, saying she also felt misled. That wasnt my understanding, she said of the expanded program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is hardly the first time that voucher proponents in Georgia have told the public one thing during debate on a bill, only to turn around and disavow those promises later. Its the kind of bait-and-switch technique you turn to only when you know that your proposal is too unpopular to be adopted through honest means. Its also important to point out that the publics distrust of vouchers is well-grounded in fact and reality. Study after study has found that vouchers do not improve education outcomes, and instead can cause significant harm. And just as opponents have warned for decades, most of the taxpayer money spent on vouchers is going to subsidize students in prosperous families who were already attending private school or being home-schooled. Relatively little is used to help public-school students escape into better schools, the supposed rationale for vouchers. And because voucher advocates insist upon little or no regulation of such programs, abuses have become legendary. In Florida, homeschooling parents are using tax money to fund family trips to Disney World. In Arizona, families are using vouchers to buy themselves big-screen TVs. In Arkansas, a state that ranks 45th in the country in teacher pay, a voucher program created in 2023 is paying for horseback riding lessons for home-schooled children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Think about that. At a time when public schools often lack the funding for even basic supplies, voucher advocates are using taxpayer money for equestrian training. You can cite any number of circumstances in which unregulated campaign money is distorting the political process in this country, but perhaps none is as egregious, blatant and potentially destructive as the debate over vouchers. Rural communities in particular are wary of proposals that would drain resources from their public schools, and if Democrats are looking for a way to restore common ground with those voters, the fight against vouchers offers a great opportunity to do so. Georgia Recorder originally published this article. Like the Alaska Beacon, the Recorder is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Georgia Recorder maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor John McCosh for questions: info@georgiarecorder.com. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Border Patrol agents in El Paso arrested a convicted rapist trying to enter the country illegally on Friday, Dec. 27, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens said on social media. Mario Roberto Ochoa Zapata was among four people arrested trying to enter the country illegally, Owens said. He did not give any details about where the arrests were made. Mario Roberto Ochoa Zapata Courtesy of Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens Owens called him an aggravated felon who was convicted of second-degree rape in 2011 out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was previously sentenced to 14 years in prison, Owens said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Honduran national will now face prosecution for his illegal re-entry into the U.S., Owens said. No other information was immediately available, but we have reached out to Border Patrol for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Boston Police are reminding the public to remain vigilant for drink spiking while celebrating New Years Eve at bars in the city. GHB, Ketamine, and Rohypnol, commonly known as roofies, are scentless, colorless, and tasteless drugs that can be secretly placed in beverages. The drugs can cause symptoms such as disorientation, confusion, temporary paralysis, unconsciousness, and more, often leaving victims vulnerable to harm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To ensure safety for all during tonights celebrations, police are encouraging the public to follow these precautions and look out for one another: Always have your drink served directly by a bartender or server. Avoid accepting drinks from people you do not know or trust. Keep your drink in sight at all times. Never leave it unattended. If you need to leave your table, take your drink with youeven to the restroom. Cover your drink when you are not actively drinking. Many innovative products are available to help you safeguard your beverage. Consider using drink-testing tools such as test strips or nail polish that can detect the presence of drugs. Seek immediate assistance if you feel dizzy, nauseous, light-headed, or otherwise unwell. Watch for unusual behavior in friends and acquaintances, and be cautious of strangers attempting to separate individuals from their group. If you see someone who appears distressed, wandering alone late at night, or dressed inappropriately for the weather, contact the police immediately. Anyone who believes they have been the victim of drink spiking or other criminal behavior are urged to report the incident without delay. The Boston Police Department wishes everyone a safe and joyous New Years Eve, a spokesperson said in a press release. Lets work together to make this New Years Eve celebration safe and enjoyable for all. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Authorities in Alabama have arrested a woman whose infant son is presumed dead months after he vanished without a trace. Kahleb Collins, 1, was last seen in Winfield, Ala., on Sept. 4, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) said on Dec. 17. His disappearance had not come to light until a car crash that killed his father and 2-year-old sibling earlier this month. He was not reported missing to authorities, who were alerted about his disappearance only following a Dec. 8 car crash which killed his father Steven Bradley Collins, 40, and 2-year-old sister RyLeigh Collins, the Fayette County Sheriff's office said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His mother, 22-year-old Wendy Jean Bailey, was hospitalized in critical condition following the crash. On Monday, Dec. 30, Alabama authorities announced several charges against her, including abuse of a corpse, aggravated child abuse, domestic violence, and criminally negligent homicide. The homicide charge is related to the death of RyLeigh, who was allegedly not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Kahlebs grandfather John Elton Bailey is also under arrest for allegedly failing to report the child missing, the sheriffs office previously told PEOPLE. Alabama Law Enforcement; Riser Funeral Homes Kahleb Rowan Collins (right); and RyLeigh Denise Collins. Kahleb Rowan Collins (right); and RyLeigh Denise Collins. Authorities have not announced a cause of death for Steven and RyLeigh. An Alabama Uniform Traffic Crash Report previously stated that Steven had been driving the car at twice the speed limit before the crash and no one in the car had their seatbelts on, WBMA, AL.com and WBRC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement of Kahlebs presumed death makes official what investigators had previously suspected. Investigators alleged in a complaint against John Bailey that the child likely suffered serious bodily harm or death and was believed to have been "removed from the home and taken to an unknown location. Now, the sheriffs office says they believe Kahleb had been deceased for some time before the Dec. 8 crash brought his disappearance to the attention of law enforcement. His body has not been found, per the sheriffs office, and a search is underway to recover his remains. Fayette County Sheriff's Office/Facebook; Fayette County Sheriff's Office Wendy Pamela Bailey (left); and John Bailey. Wendy Pamela Bailey (left); and John Bailey. A neighbor previously told WWMT that while they knew the couple had a son, they never saw him. The parents told the neighbor and documented on social media that Kahleb was sick, PEOPLE previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Facebook post shared two months after Kahlebs disappearance, Steven wrote about the child being ill with a long road to recovery. He is not growing and has major back issues. His organs are growing but not his body, Steven wrote, adding that the child would need surgery at some point. Keep him in your prayers. Been rough and just seems going to be a long rough tough road ahead of us, he wrote. Related: Dad Posted Facebook Status About Son's Illness Before Killing Self in Car Crash. Now Police Say Son Has Been Missing for Months Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. It wasn't immediately clear if Wendy has entered pleas or retained an attorney to speak on her behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People ORLANDO, Fla. The 7-year-old hit by a drone at Lake Eolas Holiday Drone show on Dec. 21 was released from the hospital, his mother told WFTV. The boy, Alezander, underwent emergency heart surgery last week after a drone fell from the sky and rocketed into the crowd of roughly 25,000, hitting him in the chest, his mother said in a previous post on his GoFundMe page. Now Adriana Edgerton said her son is recovering at home following his release from the Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children on Monday. A video Edgerton shared with the news station shows Alezander leaving the hospital in an electric toy car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Tuesday afternoon, Alezanders GoFundMe has raised over $34,700. The incident involving numerous drones falling from the sky during Orlandos third annual Holiday Drone Show has sparked safety concerns across the country, and a pair of federal probes are underway. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are both investigating the Texas-based drone operator Sky Elements. The FAA restricted Sky Elements operations as it investigates. The NTSB is investigating Sky Elements planning and safety mitigation measures and is reviewing the FAAs procedures to evaluate and approve drone show performances, the agency said in a release. NTSB expects to publish a preliminary report within 30 days of the incident, the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result of the probes, New Years Eve shows in New Yorks Central Park, Austin and Dallas that planned to use Sky Elements were canceled. In Orlando, Universal suspended the use of drones during the nightly Universal CineSational and Orlando World Center Marriott canceled its holiday drone shows as well. ________ Jerry Huffman behind jail bars installed at a local TV station in rural Uzbekistan in the late 1990s. The local government ordered jail bars to be put up at the station as a security measure. The next day, firefighters ordered the bars taken down as fire hazards. Contradictory orders were a common form of government harassment of independent media. The faces of everyone in the group except Huffman are blurred more than two decades later out of concern for government reprisals. (Courtesy of Jerry Huffman) New Years Eve. The traditional time to look back on the year thats been and toward the year that will be. Unless youre a journalist Trump is targeting. Donald Trump will live out his ultimate political fantasy, being inaugurated as president for a second time. His BFF, Russias President Vladimir Putin, is likely counting on an easier year with less interference from Washington with Trump in the White House. Both men long time media manipulators can be expected to continue their history of attacks on a free press. Internews journalism students in Kazakhstan conduct an interview. (Courtesy of Jerry Huffman) I know. For a couple of years, I worked as a correspondent and a journalism instructor in states that were once part of the former Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thought of Trump launching a nationwide media attack in America leaves my soul cold. As a journalist who has worked worldwide, Ive reported from countries where there is no such thing as a free press, as well as in formerly Communist countries including Russia where the wrong story can land you in jail or get you killed. Trump learned media domination from his cadre of autocratic sidekicks around the world. Especially Vladimir Putin, Russias longest-serving leader, who set the gold standard for media control. A statue of the Russian revolutionary leader Lenin in the village of Naryn, Kyrgyzstan. When communism and the Soviet Union collapsed, most of the statues of Russian Revolution heroes in former Soviet countries were torn down, but in the smaller villages in the region it was not unusual to find one. (Courtesy of Jerry Huffman) The Berlin Wall collapsed 35 years ago, and Putin has been either president or prime minister of Russia for the last 25 of those years. His own media lessons came from the leader of Russias 1917 Communist Revolution: Vladimir Lenin, who famously said, Ideas are more dangerous than bullets. Today Russian journalists are banned from calling the Ukraine conflict a war or an invasion. They also risk 15 years in prison for spreading what Putin considers fake news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although technically the old empire is gone, Putin still pulls strings across the former Soviet states. Working for a non-governmental organization as I did across Russia and Central Asia, we often hired local workers as support staff. Today Russia and its satellites (Yes, countries surrounding Russia that remain under its influence are still satellites, even if the USSR is no more) have passed new laws saying any local worker accepting pay from an NGO that brings outside money into Russia must first declare themselves a foreign agent. Since NGO funding routinely comes from outside Russia, if you take your weekly pay you will carry the self-professed tag of foreign agent. A 21st century Scarlet Letter, if you will, making a local journalist or even the janitor who sweeps the newsroom an easy target for arrest. The thought of a government-orchestrated media control enrages me. There is nothing more integral to a functioning democracy than an independent media. My father fought in two wars, in Europe and in Korea, defending democracy. To not stand for his sacrifices would be an insult to his memory. In the beginning Hired by Internews, a California-based NGO, I moved from Wisconsin to Kazakhstan in 1999. My job was to teach journalists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to do fact-based reporting instead of parroting government-controlled state propaganda. The Internews team spent a day in the field with rebels fighting the government of Tajikistan as part of reporting on the civil war there. (Courtesy of Jerry Huffman) But even in the post-USSR, interference was common. In Uzbekistan, one station was ordered to put jail bars up to protect from terrorist threats. The next day safety inspectors ordered the bars taken down as a fire hazard. The ping pong harassment of up and then down continued for weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A station manager might get a call from a governor, the mayor or anyone who had the illusion of power and be told to bench a reporter for a few weeks because he or she seemed tired on the air. If the power brokers didnt like the news, your spouse would lose their job. Your children might be suspended from university. Tax audits were routine. Every day was a battle between what the government and journalists considered news. If a story upset local leadership, the list of potential violations was long and often imaginary. The most insidious type of censorship was the medias own self-censorship. Most news organizations would simply ignore stories they knew would upset the government. Without lifting a finger it meant the government would win, because critical stories would never see the light of day. Some situations had the air of the ridiculous a Laurel and Hardy feature but nevertheless, they point to the larger issue: Trump, like Putin, likely doesnt need to invent a new army (remember the Space Force?) to throw his weight around. All it takes are MAGA loyalists with shiny badges to harass immigrants, chase protestors or try to stop the media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Give them a gun and they are instantly convinced of their own power. My own case in point: From left, Jerry Huffman and Eric Johnson, photographed in 1999 in Central Asia. (Courtesy of Jerry Huffman) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One spring day my boss, Eric Johnson, a fellow Midwesterner, and I set out to visit some remote broadcast stations in the region. For a week we traveled the same Silk Road Marco Polo had centuries ago. Our first sign of trouble was when we tried to cross the border between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Under the old Soviet Union we would have needed a transit visa to cross the border, but no longer. When we tried to drive across the border, however, the guys with the guns said, not so fast. The Tajik border police insisted the visa was still necessary. We had the choice of paying or being arrested. Despite a passionate argument by Eric, the one fluent in Russian, we lost. We were right, but the Tajiks had the guns. On the other hand, we had a car: We ended up driving the two guards, at their insistence, back to the jail so we could be locked up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the jail the border police had a courtroom of sorts. I wasnt allowed to attend our hearing because I couldnt speak Russian. Instead, they locked me into the commanders empty office. Imagine the look on his face finding a foreigner in his office. In a moment of unexpected kindness, he flipped on an ancient television and we passed the time watching cartoons. Eventually Eric came back to the office grinning. We were free to go, but only because a local judge who knew that the visa law had been eliminated insisted on abiding by the countrys new rules. I am well aware that only this one honest man kept us out of jail. And for the final act in this nonsensical drama? They asked and we gave the border guards a ride back to their post so they didnt have to walk. A final thought Could censorship happen here? In some ways its already started. Last November major newspapers pulled routine political endorsements just before Election Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump screams bias if the media criticizes him instead of singing his praises; some less-than-stellar media dropped the traditional editorials to avoid potential legal threats, or perhaps just the fear of losing access to the incoming administration. In the end, when the voice of a community the media goes silent, viewers and readers lose yet another source of information. A Washington Post or 60 Minutes may have the resources to fight the federal government, but local news outlets cant. At some point, the cost of battling administration lawyers with bottomless pockets becomes financially pointless. Battles that could cost each of us a piece of our freedom, one story at a time. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Since crowds first began gathering in Times Square to commemorate New Years Eve over a century ago, it has been a ritual to flock to midtowns brightly lit chaos to ring in new beginnings. At 11:59 p.m. a dazzling ball descends down a pole, while attendees and millions of people tuning in from home count down from 60. At the stroke of midnight, the crowd erupts into a cacophony of sound, often pulling their loved one in for a ceremonial kiss. But how did this New Years Eve celebration start, and why do we commemorate the occasion by watching a ball descend down a pole? New Year's Eve revelers in Times Square in 1938. - -/AFP/Getty Images When was the first ball drop in Times Square? The Times Square ball first dropped in 1904, and it came into being thanks to Jacob Starr, a Ukranian immigrant and metalworker, and the former New York Times publisher, Adolph Ochs. The latter had successfully drawn crowds to the newspapers skyscraper home in Times Square with pyrotechnics and fireworks to celebrate the forthcoming year, but city officials banned explosives from being used after just a few years of the festivities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So Ochs commissioned Starr, who worked for sign-making firm Strauss Signs (later known as Artkraft Strauss, a company at which Starr served as president), to create a new visual display. Over the past century, that display, and symbol of the New Year has evolved from a iron and wood cage adorned with light bulbs to a dazzling technicolor crystal sphere. The Times Square Ball has had seven different designs. - RW/MediaPunch/IPx/AP Their concept was based on time balls, nautical devices that had gained popularity in the 19th century. As time-telling became more precise, ship navigators needed a standardized way to set their chronometers. Each day, harbors and observatories would raise and lower a metal ball at the same time to allow sailors to synchronize their instruments. Both Ochs and the New York Times chief electrician, Walter Palmer, have been credited with the idea, allegedly inspired by the downtown Western Union Building, which dropped a time ball each day at noon. But Starrs granddaughter Tama, who joined Artkraft Strauss in 1982 and now owns the business, said in a phone interview that she believes it was her grandfather who came up with the concept of the ball being lowered and lit up with the new year numerals at midnight. One design of the New Year's Ball was an aluminum cage outfitted with lightbulbs. - David Handschuh/AP During Mayor Ed Koch's administration, the ball changed to an apple as part of the "I Love New York" campaign. - Lederhandler/AP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The idea was to have it illuminated with the brand-new electricity that had just come up to the neighborhood, said Tama, who for many years served as foreperson at the Times Square ball drop. And it was lowered by hand starting at one minute to midnight, and that was the way it was done for many years. It was an adaptation of an old, useful thing, she added. It was instantly popular. People just loved it. Though Manhattan had been partially illuminated by electricity since the early 1880s, the US National Park Service (NPS) notes that half of American homes were still lit by gas lights and candles until the 1920s. The sight of a glimmering ball lowering down from the dark skies would have seemed otherworldly. When the ball reached the parapet with a sign displaying the numbers of the year, the electrician would throw the switch, turning off the ball and turning on the numbers at the same time, Tama said. So it looked like the ball coming down transformed into the set of numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of Times Square got in on the theatrics. In the first year, waiters in nearby restaurants and hotels wore battery-powered 1908 top hats that they illuminated at the stroke of midnight. It looked like magic to people, said Tama. A minute outside of time There have been seven different Times Square balls since that first descent, from a 700-pound iron structure fitted with 25-watt light bulbs, to a lighter aluminum frame after World War II, to a Big Apple during the administration of the citys former mayor Ed Koch. In 1995, when the ball got a glitzy update with rhinestones, strobe lights and computer controls, traditional signmakers were no longer needed which meant that Artkraft Strauss, the company that had brought the ball to Times Square, was no longer needed either. Todays ball is a collaboration between Waterford Crystal and Philips Lighting, using 32,256 LEDs that can be programed to display millions of colors and patterns on its surface. For the millennium, the Times Square ball got a new look, with a crystal design from Waterford Crystal and lighting from Philips. - Kathy Willens/AP Nonetheless, Tama remembers her years as the timekeeper on the roof of One Times Square fondly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the last minute of the year arrived, workers lowered the ball down using a complex pulley system. In performing this ritual year after year, Tama sees an intrinsic link between the countdown, which she calls a minute outside of time, and the making of New Years resolutions. When youre concentrating really hard, time seems to slow down, she said. It felt like the longest minute in the world. It felt like you had time to wash your hair, call your mother, change your life. You really can change your life in one minute you can decide to be different. You can decide to be kinder and better. A version of this article first published in 2021. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Miami and the Florida Keys are remarkable places to call home. From the vibrant cultures to the breathtaking landscapes, our community is a mosaic of opportunities, diversity and potential. But as we celebrate all that makes our region special, we must also recognize our responsibility to shape its future through the young people who will one day inherit it. For thousands of youth in our community, that investment comes through a Big Brother or Big Sister. These mentors do more than provide guidance they transform lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They create bridges between cultures, foster inclusion, and strengthen our communitys social and economic fabric. As we mark National Mentoring Month this January, its a chance to reflect on the profound impact of mentorship and to challenge ourselves to amplify its role in shaping the lives of Littles, Bigs, and the community as a whole. Mentorship: A cultural connection Miami and the Florida Keys are among the most diverse regions in the world, with a population rich in heritage, language, and traditions. This diversity is a strength, but it can also bring challenges cultural divides, miscommunication, and isolation. Mentorship helps bridge these gaps. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, we see the power of these connections every day. Take Kennedi, a talented young performer, and her Big, Tanisha, who share a passion for the arts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tanisha has not only helped Kennedi develop her talents but has also been a constant source of guidance and support, empowering her to shine on stages across the country. Their story embodies what mentorship is truly about: fostering opportunity, understanding and a sense of belonging. To continue this work, we need mentors who reflect the communities we serve. Theres always a demand for more mentors, especially for men and mentors from Black and Hispanic communities, to ensure every child can thrive. The social benefits of mentorship Mentorship goes beyond guidance it transforms lives. For Littles, it builds confidence, fosters social skills, and opens doors to a brighter future. For Bigs, its a chance to give back, grow personally, and help shape the next generation. Mentorship also strengthens families, creating a ripple effect of support. Parents often share how their childs mentor becomes part of their extended family, bringing fresh perspectives, resources, and opportunities. This impact extends to neighborhoods, making communities stronger and more connected. Mentorship as an economic driver Mentorship goes beyond personal and social benefits it drives economic progress. Programs like our School to Work initiative prepare Littles for higher education and career success, equipping them with skills and confidence and pursue meaningful careers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve seen these outcomes at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami firsthand. With a 96% high school graduation rate among Littles and over $2 million in annual scholarships awarded, mentorship is creating a future workforce that is educated, empowered, and ready to contribute to our community. A call to action Becoming a mentor is simpler than many people think. It only requires a willingness to show up, listen, and care. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, we provide the training, resources and support mentors need to succeed, making it easy to get started. Mentorship isnt just about changing one life its about building a stronger, more connected Miami. When we invest in our youth, we invest in our communitys future. So, as we begin this new year, I invite you to be a part of this transformation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether you become a mentor, partner with us through your business, or support our mission as a donor, your contribution matters. Together, we can ignite potential, foster understanding, and shape a brighter future for Miami and the Florida Keys. Gale Nelson is president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami. KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 22:00 | All, Japan, World The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News. ---------- Japan's 18-year-olds rise to 1.09 mil., yet still 2nd lowest TOKYO - The number of 18-year-olds in Japan totaled 1.09 million as of Wednesday, a government estimate showed, up by 30,000 from last year but marking the second-lowest figure on record as the country continues to grapple with a declining birthrate. Of those who have reached Japan's legal adult age, 560,000 were men and 530,000 were women, accounting for 0.88 percent of the total population, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications said Tuesday. ---------- China ships spotted near Senkakus for record 355 days in 2024: Japan NAHA, Japan - Chinese coast guard vessels were again spotted near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea on Tuesday, the 355th day in 2024 that such activities were confirmed and marking a fresh annual record high since the Japanese government put the islets under state control in 2012. Four China Coast Guard ships were found sailing just outside Japan's territorial waters around the Senkakus, which Beijing claims and calls Diaoyu, according to the Japan Coast Guard. It was the 43rd consecutive day of Chinese vessel presence in the area. ---------- South Korea court approves Yoon's detention over martial law crisis SEOUL - A South Korean court on Tuesday approved a warrant request from a joint investigation team for the detention of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached in December following his brief yet controversial declaration of martial law. It marks the first detention warrant issued for an incumbent South Korean president. Yoon has claimed he cannot be investigated for treason, asserting that the declaration of martial law is a constitutional act of governance by the country's leader. ---------- Post-quake deaths to rise in central Japan as 200 cases await review KANAZAWA, Japan - The number of fatalities related to a powerful earthquake that jolted Ishikawa Prefecture and surrounding areas in central Japan on New Year's Day of 2024 is expected to rise as a further 200 deaths may be included, according to relevant municipalities. About a year after a magnitude-7.6 earthquake devastated the Noto Peninsula, the death toll exceeded 500. The majority of fatalities, mostly in Ishikawa, include those linked to the aftermath of the quake, such as deaths in evacuation centers. ---------- Mizuho Bank says connection disruption hit online transactions TOKYO - Mizuho Bank said Tuesday that its systems experienced connection disruptions from around 7 a.m., affecting online transactions for individuals and corporations, but it stressed there are no other issues detected such as a loss of customer data. One of Japan's three megabanks suggested it may have been targeted by a distributed denial-of-service, or DDoS attack, in which networks are overwhelmed by data from multiple sources over a short period. The bank said internet transactions were functioning again by approximately 10 a.m. ---------- Quad top diplomats commit to vision of free, open Indo-Pacific TOKYO - The foreign ministers of Australia, India, Japan and the United States have pledged to remain committed to their shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, less than a month before U.S. President Joe Biden leaves the White House. A statement was released Monday by the grouping, known as the Quad, on its 20th anniversary. ---------- N. Korea to grow travel sector despite tourist curbs, Kim says BEIJING - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged to promote his nation's travel industry, state-run media said Tuesday, despite ongoing restrictions on the entry of most foreign tourists that have been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic. Kim on Sunday inspected newly completed hotels and other service facilities in a coastal tourist city in the eastern province of Kangwon. Operations there are slated to begin in June 2025, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. Video: Shrines in Noto Peninsula ready for New Year visits ahead of 1st anniv. of quake A Brightline train struck and killed a woman walking along the railroad tracks Monday night on Biscayne Boulevard, according to Miami-Dade County police. Around 7:15 p.m., officers arrived at 18600 Biscayne Blvd. after receiving reports that a pedestrian was hit, said Detective Andre Martin, a Miami-Dade police spokesman. Martin said the trains conductor said the woman was walking along the tracks pushing a shopping cart. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue paramedics declared the woman dead at the scene, Martin added. Police have not identified her. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Britains net zero drive risks driving up household bills unless the Soviet-style grid is overhauled, the boss of the countrys biggest electricity supplier has warned. Greg Jackson, chief executive of Octopus Energy, criticised rules that encourage developers to build wind and solar farms far away from cities, despite a lack of existing infrastructure to transport the electricity they generate. It will mean the bill for constructing new power lines will be unnecessarily high in the coming years, he said, with wind farms also due to be handed ever-bigger sums to switch off when the grid is too busy to accept their power. Mr Jackson blamed the problems on Britains mad national pricing system, which gives the same value to electricity generated in Scotland as that generated in London despite demand being far higher for the latter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: Having an electricity market where wind turbines could be generating cheap electricity but we pay them to turn off, is mad. Our current market is more like central planning from the Soviet Union than it is like a free market. Im old enough to remember the European Economic Community, when the common agricultural policy led to wine lakes and butter mountains. That was all created because the producers the farmers required subsidies to make stuff. As a result, they made tons of the wrong things that people didnt want, and we all bore the cost of it. Thats exactly whats happening in our energy sector in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Jackson called on Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, to let the market do its work by adopting controversial proposals for regional pricing instead. This would send electricity prices plummeting in areas such as Scotland and the North of England, where supplies of wind power are already abundant. Prices would meanwhile rise in London and the South East, encouraging generators to build more capacity there. Critics have claimed this amounts to a postcode lottery that would force some households and businesses to pay through the nose for power, with wind farm developers claiming it will also plunge billions of pounds of planned investment into disarray. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Mr Jackson claimed bills would instead fall for everyone and accused developers of seeking to protect their profit margins at the expense of consumers. It reminds me of what happened with the energy price cap, where you had incumbents lobbying furiously against it, he said. The reality is, when the price cap was introduced it improved the market, because companies could no longer make fat margins by ripping customers off. He pointed to similar policies that had already been adopted in Scandinavian countries such as Norway as proof the change could work. It didnt gum up investment in Scandinavia, he said. And it brought prices down, because [generating capacity was] built where it was needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hear people saying, Oh, but you cant build wind farms in central London. But actually, you can build them on the Thames Estuary where theres plenty of industrial areas. And you can build near Dagenham and industrial areas where theres plenty of land and theyre not as likely to be controversial. You can also put solar panels on peoples roofs and everyone will benefit. Rock-bottom bills in the cheapest areas would also attract investment in data centres and other power-hungry industries, he added, pointing to a recent investment in northern Norway by social media giant TikTok. Mr Jackson said: If the UK wants to attract investment from energy-intensive industries, whether thats artificial intelligence or modern manufacturing, regional pricing is a crucial component. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His comments come after ministers confirmed they were still considering regional pricing as part of a package of reforms to the electricity market. At present, officials worry the national pricing system is causing problems for the grid. For example, during morning and evening peaks in demand, there might be abundant wind power generated in Scotland but a lack of grid capacity to move it south to where it is needed. In this situation, wind farms are currently paid compensation to stop generating while another power station often gas-fired is paid huge sums to fire up in the south. The national price system also exacerbates the problem by keeping prices too low for batteries to switch on, or for interconnectors to import power from Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the Government said changes were urgently needed to ensure our market arrangements are fit for the 2030s and beyond. In consultation documents, the Government said: The inefficiencies in our current market arrangements are evident. A do-nothing approach is not an option. Ministers are expected to make a decision in the summer. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Two closed restaurants at Broadway at the Beach are gone, demolished and reduced to rubble. The former locations of Key West Grill and Johnny Rockets were removed before Christmas. Allens Demolition, based in Galivants Ferry, announced the work on its social media pages after work began on the project. Danny Allen owns Allens Demolition and told The Sun News his firm got called to do the work sometime in October 2024. He added that the remaining debris will be gone by the end of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The buildings are down. Were just cleaning the debris stuff, Allen said. I dont really know what B&Cs (Burroughs & Chapins) got planned to put back here. Key West Grill closed in January 2020 and has sat empty for nearly four years. The demolition could make way for a new distillery at Broadway at the Beach. Optima Engineering posted a design narrative for the project online Sept. 18, 2024. The plan called for a three-story building featuring a distillery, outdoor bar and outdoor space. Another design firm, Woods Engineering Creative Solutions, also published an online proposal for the new facility on Sept. 18, 2024. Woods plan called for the new distillery to be two buildings, differing from Optimas plan. Both plans refer to the distillery project as a Yee-Haw Brewery and Ole Smoky Distillery. However, its unknown if Broadway at the Beachs parent company, Burroughs & Chapin, uses either plan for the final project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yee-Haw Brewery operates locations throughout Tennessee and in Greenville, South Carolina. Yee-Haw Brewing Co. has exciting plans for the future, but doesnt have any details to share at this time, a spokesperson told The Sun News via email. Yee-Haw is always brewing up something fun for our customers, so we look forward to what the new year and beyond has in store. Ole Smoky is also a Tennessee-based distillery that specializes in moonshines and whiskeys. Our team is solidifying the details around this project and distillery opening with the Ole Smoky team, a spokesperson for the company wrote via email. We should have more information by (end of the week) and will share with you as soon as received. Broadway at the Beachs public relations firm, LHWH, did not return a request for comment before publication. Broadway at the Beach already has several beer-themed restaurants such as the Carolina Ale House. The destination also opened the Kentucky Mist Distillery in 2018, which serves moonshine and other spirits. The mother of a newborn girl who left the infant in a tote bag outside a Bronx neighbors home turned herself in to cops and has been charged with abandonment, police said Tuesday. Delfina Galvez, 28, surrendered at the 46th Precinct stationhouse Monday after cops began a full-court press search for her. She left her baby wrapped in blankets in a reusable tote bag outside a brick house on Rev. James A. Polite Ave. near E. 167th St. in East Tremont early Sunday, according to cops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A neighbor soon saw the bag and heard crying and police were notified in a 5:59 a.m. 911 call. I didnt want to mess up any evidence, but it was too cold, Mamadou Hafiz Jallow told PIX11. I picked up the baby [and] put it inside the house where it was warm. Believed to be only about five days old, the girl was taken by medics to Jacobi Medical Center and is in stable condition. New Yorks Abandoned Infant Protection Act allows people to anonymously abandon a baby up to 30 days old, but only if the infant is left at a safe place like a hospital or firehouse and only if someone is notified. Cops released surveillance footage Monday of the woman who left the baby and asked the publics help identifying her and tracking her down. In the video shes seen wearing a surgical face mask and carrying a green tote bag as she walks down a rain-swept sidewalk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Galvez turned out to live just down the block from where she left her child, police said. Cops charged her with abandonment of a child, reckless endangerment and acting in a manner injurious to a child. Her arraignment in Bronx Criminal Court was pending Tuesday. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Two men are suspected of robbing a Brookside business Saturday night, neither are in police custody. Earls Premier sits at a corner of East 59th Street in the East Brookside. Police say employees and patrons of Earls Premier were at the restaurant at the time of the crime. Turn yourselves in and turn yourselves around. We are fair people here, one Brookside resident shared with FOX4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were dispatched to an armed business robbery. Upon their arrival, they determined the business and multiple patrons were robbed. The suspects entered the restaurant and demanded money from the business and patrons. One victim suffered injuries from being assaulted during the robbery, a spokesperson for the Kansas City Missouri Police Department shared with FOX4 Sunday. 2 dead, 1 injured in crash on Wornall Road after street race The KCPD says detectives are following all leads and adds the investigation is still very active. I wish them the best. They have the best clam chowder, Jon Hartner, a Brookside resident shared Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based off its menu, Earls Premier is a neighborhood seafood spot. Its typically closed on Sundays and Mondays, but it was open to investigators Monday morning, as police continue to work the armed robbery investigation. They are investing. They became good neighbors to us. They are paying their taxes, Timothy Hayes, a resident who lives nearby shared about Earls ownership and the area. A week before that, four houses down, there was a break in as well. Its becoming more and more prevalent. This is a family neighborhood. People walk dogs, walk their kids, ride their bicycles around and walk to and from stores and people now are thinking twice about doing that. Residents FOX4 spoke with say they are glad the restaurant in their area and dont know why it was invaded Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It draws people to the neighborhood. It adds eyes on the street. It adds some diversity and excitement. It was great because the restaurant was open a bit later. Most complained about that, but its a good thing. More people out looking around. I think it adds an element of safety. Its strange to see that kind of backfire where they would target this restaurant at a later part in the day, Hartner shared. Smash-and-grab robberies those things happen all the time. They are just opportunistic, but the armed aspect is disconcerting. Hayes hopes the duo turns themselves in to law enforcement. People have the attitude that they can do what they want to do without a whole lot of consequences, Hayes shared. We are all being victimized. People come here deliberately for a nice place to live. Nice neighbors. Do things and participate and just building a life that we all want. All we want is a place to work, a place to live, place to raise our kids and do our part. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX4 also left a message for an owner of the restaurant, but the call hasnt been returned. Monday, police were unable to share a suspect description with FOX4, but if you have any information that could help assist in their investigation, you are encouraged to leave a tip at (816) 474 8477. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. BROOKSVILLE, Fla. (WFLA) A 20-year-old resident of an adult living facility in Brooksville is being charged after shooting at a facility bus on Monday, according to the Hernando County Sheriffs Office. HCSO said that officers responded to a call at about 4:50 p.m. at the Hillendale Care facility located at 27357 Frampton Avenue. Upon arrival, they located Mckenzi Finn, 20, who was taken into custody. A manager of the facility told deputies that Finn asked for a ride to the store and became angry when the driver told him that he was already transporting another patient. Staff then suggested Finn clean his room while they looked for alternate transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said that, according to the facility manager, as the bus was leaving the facility, Finn came outside with a gun and fired it three times in the direction of the vehicle. According to the sheriffs office, the driver was uninjured, and there appeared to be no damage to the bus. After obtaining a search warrant, detectives said they located the firearm stowed away in the ceiling of a common-area bathroom. Ammunition for it was discovered in Finns room. How did he get a gun inside the facility? said Ricky Dummer, who lives near the facility. They should be more responsible especially if theyre a facility, you shouldnt have access to a gun. Credit: HCSO HCSO said they arrested Finn and booked him into the Hernando county Detention Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said Finn has a lengthy criminal history. They report an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon case in St. Lucie County, and said in 2020 he pleaded no contest to felony burglary in Broward County. He has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, discharging a firearm in public, tampering with evidence, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Fox News host Kayleigh McEnany drew mockery and eye rolls on Monday when she suggested that Donald Trumps idea to make Canada a U.S. state is something many of the countrys residents are actually interested in. Could the American flag be adding another star in 2025? McEnany, the president-elects former White House press secretary, said on The Ingraham Angle. Well, Trumps idea of making Canada great again by turning it into the 51st state is gaining some serious traction, especially from Canadian citizens, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her guest for the segment was Canadian Shark Tank investor Kevin OLeary, who has been publicly advocating for the union. Trump shared an article Monday on Truth Social that said OLeary will come to Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida to start the narrative about merging the nations. (OLeary does not represent Canada and has no authority to negotiate on its behalf.) Kayleigh: Could the American flag be adding another star in 2025? Trump's idea of making Canada great again by turning it into the 51st state is gaining some serious traction especially from Canadian citizens pic.twitter.com/tLsYBnwOS0 Acyn (@Acyn) December 31, 2024 McLeary told McEnany he intends to visit Trump in Florida to discuss the matter. He also said he had been conducting unofficial polling, and I bet you more than 70% of Canadians would be interested in an arrangement where Canada and the U.S. merge economically while allowing Canada to retain its sovereignty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More structured polling from Canadian market research company Leger shows a somewhat different story. In a poll conducted earlier this month, the company found that only 13% of Canadians said they would like Canada to become the 51st U.S. state. And 82% said they would not like the idea. Trump has been joking about adding Canada to the U.S. since he met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau late last month to discuss the tariffs Trump is threatening to impose on Canadian products. Commenters on social media werent too happy about McEnanys assertion, calling it a Masters level gaslight and total BS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wake me from this nightmare! one person wrote, sharing a clip of her comments. Check out those reactions and others below. What the fuck is wrong with everyone? Wake me from this nightmare! https://t.co/0coIqoOK66 Duke Silver (@guelphgirlchris) December 31, 2024 Masters level gaslight from elementary grade mouthpiece. https://t.co/OPeAM2EwUQ Christopher Gibbs (@ChrisRGibbs) December 31, 2024 No. No traction among Canadian citizens. https://t.co/xZGwI2IHDh Sarah Larchmont (@SarahLarchmont) December 31, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No it fucking isnt. https://t.co/gj8uKnaqGu Andy Roberts (@scaryfish) December 31, 2024 Absolutely false, why would they give up free healthcare for this 4 year shit show. https://t.co/VRDNsyLWYL Dan Vega (@Vega529) December 31, 2024 I know many Canadians and they think this is insulting and demeaning. Kayleigh is a publicity bitch. https://t.co/4yAtmv6SRZ KatGram (@Gram_Kat) December 31, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kayleigh is serious(ly dumb). https://t.co/BbXfCNOBQ3 Bad Fox Graphics (@BadFoxGraphics) December 31, 2024 Related... LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) Downtown Athens is making progress on cleanup efforts after an EF-1 tornado hit part of the city over the weekend. Day two of cleanup began bright and early in a race to restore as much of the city before the start of a new year. NWS confirms additional surveys of storm damage across Tennessee Valley was straight-line wind Tuesday morning, cleanup crews could be spotted in every direction, picking up around the citys square. Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly met with crews outside the county courthouse to assess the damage. He said everyone has come together to keep spirits high amid the damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a little roof damage and things like that but were working through the storm just like everybody else, and we will build back, said Daly. It takes a village and the county and the city have worked so well through this and you really find out what type of community you have when youre in need. Dozens of mom-and-pop shops remain closed around the square. Daly tells News 19 that the city will work to help get all businesses back up and running. He calls these stores the backbone of the community. One of the oldest shops and hardest hit by the storm was the CIE Bookstore. Its roof ripped completely off the building. Books were thrown across the floor, and brick walls crumbled. PHOTOS: Damage from confirmed EF-1 tornado in Athens, damage across Tennessee Valley Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CIE Bookstore Director of Operations Lance Taylor and store employees met outside the building to discuss the next steps. A lot of our business we can do remotely and ship directly to home for customers but there are going to be some of our products with a delay because well have to work with some of our vendors to get it back. While local stores work to reopen, Athens City offices are open and operational, and the Limestone County Courthouse will reopen after January 1. Pryor St. around Veterans Museum was reopened earlier Monday but the square & Pecan Park parking lot remain closed to the public until further notice. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Jimmy Carter redefined what a post-presidency could be after he lost re-election in 1980. From the Carolina Lowcountry to the Ethiopian highlands, Carters humanitarian work eventually eclipsed his White House accomplishments and continues to enrich the world today. In 1982, the former president and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, committed to human rights and alleviating suffering around the world. The Carter Center quickly became a force for peace. It strengthened democracies by observing more than 100 elections across 39 countries. It also gained renown for groundbreaking work tackling neglected tropical diseases and providing health education. From leading the charge at the Carter Center to building Habitat for Humanity homes, Impact Your World featured President Carter three times. Each story showcased an endeavor that, alone, could be a lifetimes worth of good works. Jimmy Carters commitment to all three is a testament to just how much a difference one person can make. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the world mourns the presidents passing and celebrates his life, CNNs Impact Your World looks back at his humanitarian causes and the ways you can carry on his legacy. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn talk to children in Ghana about Guinea worm disease in 2007. - courtesy carter center Quest to wipe out the fiery serpent Carter made it a mission to eradicate Guinea worm, a parasite that has plagued society since ancient times. The worms have been pulled from Egyptian mummies and are believed to be the fiery serpents described in the Bible. The brutal disease involves larva ingested from stagnant drinking water eventually bursting through victims skin. There was an audacity to President Carters plan to eliminate the pest. So far, science has only wiped out one human disease worldwide smallpox, eradicated with a vaccine. And there is no such silver bullet for Guinea worm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there is the Carter Centers massive campaign, determined to change the behavior of people across 20 countries and distribute millions of water filters. When the program started in 1986, Guinea worm disease infected 3.5 million people. By 2022, only 13 cases were reported worldwide. I would like the Guinea worm to die before I do, Carter said in 2015. You can support his dream to cure the world of Guinea worm disease here: The Carter Center Guinea Worm Eradication Program. This young Ugandan man lost his sight in 2007 from river blindness. The Carter Centers river blindness program now works with Ugandas health ministry to curtail future infections. - Kay Hinton/The Carter Center Fighting river blindness Impact Your Worlds second interview with Jimmy Carter focused on another health initiative. River blindness is a parasitic infection spread by black flies in Africa, Latin America and Yemen. About 20 million people suffer from the disease which causes skin discoloration, rashes and can lead to blindness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carter Center helped tackle river blindness with health education and more than 500 million doses of Mectizan, a medicine that kills larvae inside the human body. By giving you the two to four doses a year, we could actually get rid of a disease from a particular community, Carter explained. Together with the respective ministries of health, the Carter Center has eliminated river blindness transmission from Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Guatemala. The center continues to work in Brazil, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Sudan, Uganda, and Venezuela. To go back later and to see the disease is gone, and that the people have a totally transformed life, those are some great dividends to be derived from a small investment, Carter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Go here to help the Carter Centers River Blindness Elimination Program. Jimmy Carter outside the first Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in New York City in 1984. - Habitat for Humanity Int'l Building homes for the needy Our final Impact Your World interview with Jimmy Carter was in 2016, on the construction site of a Habitat for Humanity home in Memphis, Tennessee. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter first volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in 1984. The Carter Work Project soon became an annual event led by the former first couple for more than 35 years. This has been the main thing we do outside of Carter Center and outside of my political jobs, the then-91-year-old said during a momentary break from swinging his hammer. The volunteers on location said it was hard to keep pace with the former president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement unknown content item - And the difference he made is awe-inspiring. According to Habitat for Humanity, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have worked with 104,000 volunteers in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,390 homes. You can find ways to support and volunteer with Habitat for Humanity here: Carter Work Project. unknown content item - For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A man who Burlington police officers say they have encountered more than anyone else in the departments record-keeping history was released from Northwest State Correctional Facility on Monday, three days after his most recent arrest in which he allegedly tried to attack staff and patients at UVM Medical Center. That prompted a harsh response from Burlington Police Chief Jon Murad, who said in a press release that the departments records show the man, 47-year-old Michael Reynolds, has had more than 1,850 encounters with officers. He has been cited for trespassing more than 170 times by businesses, property owners and social-service agencies. In May, after Reynolds was arrested for allegedly assaulting a fire captain and a police officer with boldly fluids, Murad said he wanted it to be more difficult for repeat offenders to be released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our statutes dont afford us the ability to hold someone because they present a risk to public safety unless that risk is a felony level crime with an imminent likelihood of committing that felony again, Murad said. Then its not a matter of bail, its a matter of no bail. Murad said Monday that Reynolds has violated violated court orders or conditions nearly 40 times. Yet after spending less than 3 days in jail, he was released on conditions. He has harmed huge numbers of people, Murad said. [H]e routinely endangers himself and others; and Burlingtons officers deal with him more than any other person. At least 12 times this month alone, according to Burlington police. Most of the incidents, which began December 9, according to police, involved violations of trespassing orders or court conditions; Reynolds was cited at least twice for disorderly conduct between Dec. 9 and Dec. 30, police say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspected car thief assaults Burlington police officer Two days before Christmas, officers had two encounters with Reynolds, according to police. Early that day, he was cited for trespassing on South Winooski Avenue. A few hours later, officers received a call about a mental health issue involving Reynolds near North Winooski Avenue and Pearl Street. Witnesses told police that Reynolds repeatedly punched a mailbox, had lunged into traffic and was harassing pedestrians. Reynolds most recent arrest came two days after Christmas. He was taken into custody for unlawful trespass at UVM Medical Center, where he allegedly tried to attack security guards and other patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While officers searched Reynolds, they learned he was suspected of burglarizing a house on Colchester Avenue. According to police, the victim came out of the shower and found Reynolds hiding in a closet. Reynolds left the residence, but was later taken into custody for burglary and jailed at Northwest State Correctional for lack of $1,000 bail. Mr. Reynolds has half a dozen felony convictions and more than three dozen misdemeanor convictions, Murad said. He has exhausted outlets of charity, treatment, or relief, and burned bridges with entities that seek to help the disadvantaged. We have an answer for this kind of violent, incorrigible, antisocial behavior: Vermonts habitual criminal statute. The statute 13 V.S.A. 11 allows for anyone convicted of three felonies or felony attempts to be sentenced up to and including life if convicted of a fourth felony other than murder. Our legislators enacted it for a reason, Murad said. If Mr. Reynolds is convicted of this most recent felony, 13 V.S.A. 11 should be strongly considered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 12:09 | World, All, Japan China detained a Japanese woman in 2015, alleging she had engaged in spying activities in Japan, sources familiar with the bilateral relationship said Monday, marking the first known case in which actions taken in Japan became the basis for Chinese criminal prosecution. The woman, a Chinese-born former executive of a Japanese language school in her 60s, was detained in Shanghai during a business trip after allegedly conveying a Chinese diplomat's views on the Tokyo-controlled, Beijing-claimed Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea to the Japanese government, the sources said. In December 2018, the Shanghai Intermediate People's Court sentenced her to six years for spying. In February 2019, the city's High People's Court ruled that while she had engaged in espionage, the information she sent to the Japanese government did not pertain to national security. The high court, however, rejected her appeal and upheld the lower court's six-year jail sentence and the confiscation of 50,000 yuan ($6,850). She was released after completing her sentence and returned to Japan in 2021. The Japanese government was aware that Chinese authorities had criminally charged her for activities in Japan but did not publicly release that information, the sources said. In 2012 and 2013, the woman repeatedly met with the official of the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo and asked how Beijing viewed the confrontation between the two Asian neighbors following Tokyo's decision to put the Senkakus under state control. She conveyed the diplomat's views to two Japanese government officials, according to the sources. The Japanese government purchased a main part of the Beijing-claimed islands from a Japanese individual in September 2012. Since China's counterespionage law first came into force in 2014, 17 Japanese citizens have been detained for their alleged involvement in spying activities. Five remain in custody, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry. In China, it is customary that allegations concerning national security are not released, and the details are not announced in most cases, even after rulings are finalized. Related coverage: Japanese businessman stands trial for spying in Beijing China starts smartphone inspections to boost anti-espionage efforts (FOX40.COM) Many Californians can look back at their time growing up and remember spending hours after school bogged down in homework, but one lawmaker hopes to change that for the next generation. As students and teachers prepare to return to school in January 2025 from the holiday break, a new law set to go into effect could eventually lead to less homework. When the bell rings and the school day is over, for students like Sofia Johnson, the day is nowhere near over. The sixth-grader blames that on hours spent doing homework. California bill to ban large loads of homework in public schools considered Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homework is exhausting. Its overwhelming, Johnson said. Its depressing that my whole day from when I wake up to when I go to bed is taken up doing school work. Thats why Johnsons mother, assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Santa Clara) says she authored AB 2999, also known as The Healthy Homework Act. It was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom earlier this year to take effect in 2025. The legislation will not ban homework, but it formally encourages local school boards and educational agencies to establish homework policies that consider impacts on students physical and mental health all with input from parents, teachers, and students themselves. California raises dollar limit for home projects that do not require licensed contractors Its addressing homework, which is the top stressor for kids, Schiavo said. Its often number one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new law comes as a survey of more than 300,000 American students conducted by Stanford University and the nonprofit organization Challenge Success found that 45% of students say workload and homework is their number one source of stress. 13,000 California high school students who took the survey report an average of 2.5 hours of homework every night. I just toured a school in my district where they talked about how they are trying to reduce the kids who are missing school or dropping out of school. The top reason they hear is because kids are getting behind, Schiavo said. They just get into a hole when you miss homework. You have homework the next day, you are trying to catch up from the old homework too much homework can overwhelm them. Schiavo said the bill was also tailored around equity something California teacher of the year Casy Cuny believes is crucial, noting students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may not have access to resources at home like high-speed internet. A childs grade should not be dependent on the resources they have at home to do the homework, Cuny said. I truly believe the resources should be dependent on the learning that takes space in the classroom with the professional. Thats why I support this bill because in the end, it will be whats best for kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislation calls for the California Department of Education to put homework guidelines on its website for the upcoming year. It also requires school districts to come up with a homework policy by the start of the 2027 school year. It has no formal opposition. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The new year is just two days away and with it comes a new set of safety laws that will go into effect Jan. 1 in the Golden State. Retail crime has been on a steady incline not just in the state, but especially in Kern County. Organized Retail Theft: Senate Bill 982: Strengthens measures to address organized retail crimes. Senate Bill 1416: Combats organized retail crimes by increasing penalties for those involved in the resale of stolen goods, also known as fencing. Assembly Bill 2943, a.k.a. the California Retail Theft Reduction Act: Creates a specific crime for serial retail theft, and allows property value for thefts committed within 90 days to be combined to qualify as grand theft. It also authorizes law businesses from lawsuits for reporting crimes and promotes rehabilitation through diversion programs for offenders younger than 18. Prop 36: Over 70% of voters statewide voted yes on Prop 36 during the November elections and went into effect Dec. 18. The measure increases penalties for retail theft and certain drug offenses related to fentanyl. The Kern County District Attorneys office filed its first felony case under Prop 36 a day after it went into effect, but the new law also brings up a slew of new problems for Kern County, according to Sheriff Donny Youngblood. Reckless Driving Theres also multiple new laws that will tackle reckless driving. Assembly Bill 1978: Allows storing a vehicle when a person is arrested but not taken into custody for obstructing or placing a barricade on a highway or off-street parking facility for purposes of aiding a speed contest. Assembly Bill 2186: Permits the arrest and custody of people engaged in an exhibition of speed in an off-street parking facility. Under this law, law enforcement can also impound your vehicle for up to 30 days. Assembly Bill 2678: Vehicles with Clean Air Vehicle stickers can now drive in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, if federal law permits. Assembly Bill 2111: Prohibits any alteration of a license plates reflective coating to avoid detection from any entity, not just law enforcement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. While the Biden administration approved Californias effort to ban new sales of gas-powered cars by 2035, the Golden States automotive future remains uncertain. The incoming Trump administration is likely to try to undo the December approval and a wave of litigation will also probably challenge the Biden administrations decision. But President-elect Trumps anticipated actions could also face court challenges. And California could have more tricks up its sleeve to push its market toward electric vehicles regardless of what Trump does. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres just an enormous amount of uncertainty about whether the rule goes into effect lots of moving parts. It will take a while before we know the answer to that question, said Ann Carlson, a former Biden administration official who is now an environmental law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets its own rules for the nation about how much emissions automakers fleets can emit. The rules put forward by the Biden administration are so stringent that they will require a significant share of the auto market to become electric but they dont ban gas cars entirely. The Clean Air Act prevents states from setting different rules from the federal government though as California has historically dealt with unique smog problems, the law provides an exemption allowing it to seek a waiver to set its own rules that go further than the federal ones. The Biden administration recently granted that waiver, allowing Californias new standards that ban the sales of gas cars by 2035 to take effect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eleven other states and Washington, D.C. which combined with California make up more than 30 percent of the nations car market have adopted Californias rule, meaning they, too, are poised for a shift away from gas cars. In theory, this makes Californias rule a major shift in the American auto market and a giant step forward in the nations fight against the climate crisis. But a tangled web of law, politics and market considerations make the rules actual expected outcome less clear. The EPAs approval of Californias gas car ban is sure to come with lawsuits. Republican-led states, oil, gasoline and ethanol producers and the auto industry are among the parties that could sue to try to overturn the rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, the Trump administration will also likely to revoke the waiver through the regulatory process though this action could also spur lawsuits from supporters of the California rule. The EPAs own standards, which if unchanged could make just 29 percent of the cars sold nationwide in 2032 gas-powered, will face similar legal uncertainty. The national rule already faces a lawsuit and Trumps threats to overturn it. However, any future Trump rule could also face legal hurdles from green groups that would argue its not strict enough. As the legal process plays out, its not clear for automakers what their national- or state-level electric vehicle sales requirements will be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navigating these challenges is especially acute for heavily regulated automakers and suppliers because of our multi-year design and manufacturing cycles and the significant capital expenditures necessary to bring any new vehicle to market, John Bozzella, president of the lobbying group Alliance for Automotive Innovation, said in a recent memo to Trump. He also called the current California and federal rules out-of-step with market realities. California could try to implement a side deal with carmakers amid the potential policy and legal battles. After the last Trump administration revoked an Obama-era EPA authorization for California to set car standards, the state and several automakers inked a deal to increase the fuel efficiency of their car fleets. If companies are looking for certainty, their best effort will be to have an agreement with California, said Margo Oge, who directed the EPAs Transportation and Air Quality office for nearly two decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oge said that if she were an auto company she would want to know, at least for the biggest market in the U.S., that I can provide cars. A spokesperson for the California Air Resources Board did not directly answer The Hills question about whether the state would pursue a similar deal this time. Instead, the spokesperson directed The Hill to the agencys press release on the EPA waiver in which California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said, Clean cars are here to stay California can rise to the challenge of protecting our people by cleaning our air and cutting pollution. If the carmakers do strike any such accord, its not clear what share of new cars sold would be electric and on what timeline under the agreement. Another wildcard is that Republicans may try for a shortcut: the Congressional Review Act (CRA). This law allows simple majorities of the House and Senate to overturn a recent regulatory rule with the presidents approval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Government Accountability Office, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog, has said that the EPA waiver is not subject to be overturned under the CRA. But Republicans could still try to use the tool anyway, said Carlson, who was the acting administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration under President Biden. She added that this would almost certainly spur a follow-up lawsuit, arguing that the Congressional Review Act does not, in fact, apply to waivers. Asked whether the GOP would pursue a CRA, a spokesperson for Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) did not directly answer, instead saying that the incoming chair of the Environment and Public Works Committee would look for any way possible to reverse the Biden administrations action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Of all the rich and powerful people cozying up to President-elect Donald Trump, few have rushed to Mar-a-Lago faster than the crowned heads of big tech, including California's own chiefs of Google and Meta. And few have a stronger motive to curry Trump's favor than Silicon Valley: The fate of the H-1B visa program that permits foreign-born computer scientists, engineers and other highly skilled workers to migrate to the United States hangs in the balance. Support for retaining H-1B from Elon Musk, the incoming president's new closest associate, has stirred rage through much of Trump's MAGA base, which is against immigration in almost any form. But keeping the pipeline open for tech and other skilled workers is seen by many business leaders as crucial for the U.S. economy, especially in California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Inside a flawed immigration system: Millions of undocumented workers and a verification program that few use The state is by far the biggest user of the H-1B. More than 9,600 employers in California sought clearance for at least one H-1B worker in fiscal 2024, with 78,860 visa applications for new and continuing employment being approved, according to data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They include all kinds of skilled workers in various industries, including nurses and science teachers. But the top 10 beneficiaries of H-1B visas in California accounting for almost one-third of all the approvals were dominated by tech giants, most of them in the San Francisco Bay Area. Those companies are the ones that can afford to hire outside firms that navigate the paperwork, the bureaucracy, and can jump through the hoops, said Todd OBoyle, who leads technology policy at the Chamber of Progress, a group backed by big tech firms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of H-1B visas for new employment is capped at 65,000 a year nationally. An additional 20,000 are set aside for foreign nationals who have earned a masters degree or higher in the U.S. H-1B visas are good for three years but can be extended for up to another three years. Tech companies in California and elsewhere have relied on the program even as they made massive job cuts after the pandemic, during which many went overboard on hiring and other spending. The fact that tech companies have fired thousands of American workers while hiring large numbers of foreign workers has added to the fury of anti-immigration Trump supporters, who have long argued immigrants take jobs away from Americans by working for less pay. The question of whether that claim is valid does not have an easy or simple answer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. graduate school students in engineering and the sciences are disproportionately foreign-born, and even with that there are shortages of some highly skilled workers, particularly in high-tech engineering and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence. Nvidia, the major Santa Clara supplier of AI hardware and software, got H-1B visa approvals for more than 1,500 workers last year in California, according to USCIS data. The company declined to comment, and other top tech users of the H-1B, including Google, Meta and Apple, didnt immediately respond to requests for comment. If you lay off a programmer, its not the same skill set as somebody who has a post-doctorate in AI, so you have to look at the skills that are sought and why, said Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose), who sits on the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship. But she said the H-1B isnt without its challenges, pointing to cases in the past at UC San Francisco and Southern California Edison in which U.S. workers were reported displaced by lower-paid H-1B visa holders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employers who hire H-1B workers are required to pay wages at least as much as for similar U.S. professionals, but there are abuses. Lofgren said systemic improvements are needed, including stronger analysis on skill sets for the jobs available and more robust advertising on openings. Whats more, workers from India dominate H-1B visas, in part because there are country quotas for permanent immigration, and temporary work visas are seen as a bridge to that, although the wait is often many years. People say the immigration system is broken, and this is part of the brokenness, Lofgren said, adding that especially for California, our economy is dependent on, and our prosperity is tied to, immigrants. Read more: What rising immigration really means for California's economy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The acrimony over the H-1B in recent days spiraled after far-right activist Laura Loomer attacked H-1B as a threat to American workers and national security. She and other critics of worker visas say they lead to fewer jobs for U.S. workers, but academic research over the years has found little evidence to support that claim overall. And although some laid-off workers have been forced to retire or switch careers, studies have found many also have been re-employed relatively quickly. For computer and mathematical occupations, the November unemployment rate was just 2.5%, up from 1.7% a year ago; and it was unchanged at 2% for architectural and engineering occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Loomer suggested a major clash ahead between immigration hardliners such as Stephen Miller, named as Trumps deputy chief of staff for policy, and those including Vivek Ramaswamy, the former Republican presidential candidate who with Musk has been charged by Trump to cut government spending and regulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk, the worlds richest person who runs Tesla and SpaceX and is himself an immigrant and onetime H-1B visa holder, has come out championing the hiring of skilled foreign workers. The visa program has certainly helped Tesla, which this fiscal year received H-1B approvals for 1,765 new and continuing workers, although SpaceX has grown with little benefit of H-1B workers. (Musk moved Tesla's headquarters to Austin, Texas, from Palo Alto at the end of 2021, and said this year that he was relocating SpaceX to Texas as well.) "OF COURSE my companies and I would prefer to hire Americans and we DO, as that is MUCH easier than going through the incredibly painful and slow work visa process," Musk wrote Christmas Day on his social media platform, X. "However, there is dire shortage of extremely talented and motivated engineers in America. It comes down to this: do you want America to WIN or do you want America to LOSE. If you force the worlds best talent to play for the other side, America will LOSE. Trump on Saturday seemed to side with Musk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times, he told the New York Post. Its a great program. (Trumps businesses have used predominantly the H-2B program, which are for temporary seasonal workers that hotels and tourist businesses, for example, make heavy use of during summer. H-2A is for temporary farmworkers.) Despite his record and promises to seal the borders and deport millions of undocumented immigrants, Trumps remarks raised hopes among some immigration advocates that the incoming president could take a softer tack on H-1B visas. In his first term, Trump's team made it a lot tougher for employers to get H-1B approvals, and denial rates jumped above 20% in fiscal years 2018 and 2019, triple the average of the prior administration, according to the National Foundation for American Policy, a Washington think tank that favors higher levels of immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At minimum it muddies the waters, said Stuart Anderson, the group's executive director. It could signal a neutral policy rather than a hostile one. Stephen Yale-Loehr, an immigration expert at Cornell Law School, said that despite the deficiencies in H-1B, he believes that most employers try to follow the rules. At the macro-level, H-1B workers are helping our economy and creating more jobs for U.S. workers. Entrepreneurs, in particular, have talked about skilled worker visas as being crucial for their growth. Yale-Loehr also noted that recent changes have given U.S. immigration officials greater authority to tighten up the H-1B program, including imposing penalties and inspections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That could strengthen enforcement and cut down on abuses, if Trump follows through on his supportive remarks. Its too early to see. Youve got some people in the administration like Elon Musk who want to preserve the H-1B category and other people like Stephen Miller who want to restrict all immigration, including H-1B, Yale-Loehr said. Well see which side wins over the four years of the Trump administration. Sign up for our Wide Shot newsletter to get the latest entertainment business news, analysis and insights. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A Canadian man was arrested at Miami International Airport after attacking multiple people, including Transportation Security Administration officers. The TSA confirmed on Monday that the incident took place at 6:40 a.m. on Dec. 28 and involved both a supervisory transportation security officer and a transportation security officer, along with other travelers at the major transit hub in Miami, Florida. Cameron Dylan McDougall, 28, from Toronto, Canada, faces three counts of battery charges: battery on a police officer, one count of battery each on a person 65 or older, and a misdemeanor battery charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One day prior, the same individual was involved in an in-flight disturbance that caused the plane on which he was traveling to divert back to Miami, the TSA told ABC News on Monday. Further information about the incident on Dec. 27 has yet to be disclosed. PHOTO: Cameron Dylan McDougall booking photo mugshot Miami Dade Police Florida (Miami-Dade Police) According to his arrest affidavit from the second incident, McDougall approached and attacked one victim as the man was walking to his gate. Yanez, identified as the victim in the complaint, said McDougall "never stated anything to him and just walked up on him and started punching him." It said that another victim, identified as Mr. Pastor in the complaint, witnessed the attack and "tried to break up the fight" but was punched in the arm by McDougall. MORE: Air Canada Express flight evacuated after landing incident in Halifax Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDougall then attacked other passengers, the report stated, before proceeding to the TSA screening area, where he attempted to punch a TSA officer. He also punched another TSA officer "three times in the face with a closed fist" as the officer intervened, according to the complaint. Prior to the attack, McDougall had been screened at a security checkpoint without incident, the TSA said. Officers were attacked when he circled back toward them after being screened "with no anomalies," the agency said. Authorities were able to take McDougall into custody after a witness restrained him, the arrest affidavit noted. PHOTO: Miami, Florida, Miami International Airport, airport terminal, TSA rules, no threats, verbal abuse, physical violence, fines and criminal penalty sign (Jeff Greenberg/Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Imag) It is unknown if McDougall was under the influence of drugs at the time but he was not under the influence of alcohol, per the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This unprovoked and brash physical attack against our employees, who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of the traveling public and the security of our aviation system, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," the TSA said in a statement. "TSA is working with law enforcement and will pursue independent enforcement actions against this individual." MORE: 2 survivors recovering as South Korean officials probe Jeju Air plane crash The agency has signs posted at security checkpoints nationwide stating that threats, verbal abuse or physical violence of any kind against its employees is not tolerated and could lead to the pursuit of criminal penalties and fines of up to $13,910. The TSA also clarified in its statement that additional information about and criminal charges against McDougall would come from the Miami-Dade Police. The police department told ABC News on Monday evening that it had nothing to add beyond the criminal complaint. Canadian man arrested after attacking TSA officers and others at Miami airport originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Given that the value of a high-end collectible carfrom a classic to a supercarcan easily exceed the average sale price of an Old Master painting, its surprising how many of these dream machines are still stored in insecure, climatically unsuitable places: domestic garages, old agricultural buildings, and even public car parks. British start-up Birch aims to change that. Its founders are serious car collectors who struggled to find suitable accommodation for their valuable assets. But they also made their fortunes in insurance, and they saw not only that art-world standard storage would reduce owners premiumsoften by more than the cost of the storagebut also that insurance providers will increasingly demand that collectors keep their cars in such facilities, as art insurers do. More from Robb Report The Birch car-storage facility near London Gatwick Airport in England. The team responsible for creating Birch includes founders Daniel Wood and Desmond Boughton, as well as new co-owner Grahame Chilton, who sold the British insurance group he cofounded for nearly $1 billion and whose sons Max and Tom have had successful careers as racing drivers. Max raced in Formula 1 before driving for Chip Ganassi Racing in Indy cars, and Tom, who is an FIA World & British Touring Car champion in his class, is now Birchs commercial director. Advertisement Advertisement The start-ups first facility is a brand-new, unmarked, dark-green warehouse near Gatwick airport, approximately 30 miles from Central London. Its now accepting the first of the 590 cars it will hold at around 100 (about $125) per week, and it has already become the approved storage provider for a major luxury carmaker. Birch has immediate plans to build further facilities in London itself and near the Formula 1 circuit Silverstone. In the longer term, there may eventually be around ten such units in the United Kingdom alone. International expansion, possibly on a franchise model and using some of the storage techniques its pioneering already, is also a possibility. Tom Chilton, Birchs commercial director. The Vault, as Birch refers to the storage area, is impressive to behold: its just a pity that no clients will get to see it. Robb Report was recently granted special access, but once more cars belonging to clients are present, only staff will have access to ensure security and confidentiality. You wont be able to see your car once its inside, but neither can anyone else. You can, however, have it back within fifteen minutes, thanks to Birchs unique racking system. Other storage facilities might park their cars nose-to-tail, causing delays in extracting them and increasing the risk of damage as theyre moved to let others out. Birch, though, keeps each car on its own steel bed, which is lifted to its berth in one of the long, five-car-high avenues which are jaw-dropping in their scale. Birchs custom-built lift truck transports a Ferrari race car placed on its own steel bed. The safety and security systems are just as striking. The fire system has a dedicated 90,000-liter (roughly 23,775-gallon) water tank and 1,300 sprinklers. In the unlikely event of a thermal incident, only the two sprinklers directly over the unfortunate car will be activated. There is 24-hour security, of course, as well as fingerprint recognition, 40 CCTV cameras, separate fireproof strongrooms for keys and documents, and even a separate security system for the custom-built lift truck which moves the beds and without which a car cant be removed. Advertisement Advertisement Birch will valet your car on arrival, if required, and send you a photographic record of its condition. The vehicle will be connected to a battery charger, which is monitored by an app, so its always ready to go. You can have a dust cover if you wish (though there isnt any dust, says Tom) and the cars are visually inspected daily. The team asserts that the temperature and humidity in the building have never breached their target parameters, and thats with monitoring done in both summer and winter. Your car will be connected to a battery charger, which is monitored by an app, so its always ready to go. Advertisement Advertisement Birch also offers a concierge service, arranging for maintenance and repairs to your car, and delivering the vehicle whenever you need it. International clients might want to keep a special car here for use when visiting the UK and Europe: Birch will meet you at the airport with it. If youd rather deliver or collect it yourself, theres a client lounge with some very impressive race cars which you are allowed to see. We really just want to be the best high-end car storage available, says Tom. Theres a huge need for it. I think well be full here by summer, and I think well fill up in London even faster, as a lot of high-end cars arent stored correctly there. Nobody has done it like this, or built a brand in this space, he claims. As for how he would like Birch to be viewed by the collector-car community, Tom is clear. This will be their vault, their bank. Click here for more photos of the new Birch car-storage facility near London Gatwick Airport. A peek inside the new Birch car-storage facility near London Gatwick Airport. Best of Robb Report Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for RobbReports's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Former President Carter is expected to lie in state at the Capitol next week after congressional leaders announced Monday they intend to ask the House and Senate to pass resolutions allowing it. Such resolutions are generally a formality, and the Carter Center accepted the invitation Monday, following Carters death Sunday at the age of 100. In a letter addressed to Carters son, James Carter III, and the Carter Center, congressional leaders announced their intent to have the former president lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter was signed by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader-elect John Thune (R-S.D.), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who also expressed their condolences for his death. The lawmakers said they intended for Carters remains to lie in state at the Capitol in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the nation and so the American people can pay their respects to President Carter before he is laid to rest. In a post online, the Carter Center said it was accepting the invitation. Today, in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the nation, the Congress of the United States graciously extended an invitation to the Carter family for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter to lie in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., the Carter Center said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will allow an opportunity for the American people to pay their respects to President Carter. This invitation was respectfully and gratefully accepted, it added. Carter, who turned 100 earlier this year, died peacefully Sunday at his home in Plains, Ga. Members of the political world expressed condolences and praised his lifetime of service. His death comes more than a year after his wife, Rosalynn Carter, died in November 2023. Carters funeral will be held in Washington early next month and be part of roughly a week of remembrances. His body is set to lie in state Tuesday and Wednesday and depart the Capitol early Thursday for the National Cathedral. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After his funeral services in Washington, Carters remains will return to Georgia, where he will be buried in hometown Plains, next to his late wife. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) Plans are starting to come together for the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at age 100. Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100 Federal offices will be closed next Thursday, Jan. 9 the same day services will be held. White House announces state funeral for Jimmy Carter Carter visited Hampton Roads on numerous occasions during his presidency, and left behind an indelible legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man who grew up in a home without running water and electricity never forgot those in need, and former WAVY reporter and current political analyst Joel Rubin reflected on the former Navy man who powered warships and empowered nations on the path to peace. Jimmy Carter made eradicating Guinea worm disease a top mission In September 1978, Carter completed the lasting peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. That same year, the Carter family traveled from the White House to Virginia Beach for a fishing trip with attorney Pete Decker. I think this did more for the nation than if I had stayed there, Carter said to laughs to a group of people at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He believed in the mission; Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads remembers President Jimmy Carter It was a big catch for Decker, who hosted the president again in 1979. Rubin was a witness to history. That was Peter Decker, Rubin said. I mean, he could host the presidents, and Im sure every other heads of state that would like to go fishing. And it was so great to see him here. Carter, a graduate of the Naval Academy, was hand-selected by Admiral Hyman Rickover, who is considered the father of the nuclear Navy. The nuclear Navy that became Hampton Roads, Rubin said. Newport News Shipbuilding makes the subs and the aircraft carriers all nuclear were about to, in this country, and in this state, get back into nuclear power again because of our need for more electricity generation. Nuclear power defined Hampton Roads, and Jimmy Carter helped set the tone for that because he was the right guy in the White House from 1976 to 1980. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his last year in office, Carter returned to Naval Station Norfolk when the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Nimitz returned from deployment during the Iranian hostage crisis. On behalf of the other 240 million in our country, let me say that all of us are glad to see you reunited with these heroic men who served all of our nation so well, xx said. Heres another Hampton Roads connection. The Carters eldest child, John, was born at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth on July 3, 1947. His mother, Rosalynn Carter, died in November 2023. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 12:01 | All, Japan Mizuho Bank said Tuesday that its systems experienced connection disruptions from around 7 a.m., affecting online transactions for individuals and corporations, but it stressed there are no other issues detected such as a loss of customer data. One of Japan's three megabanks suggested it may have been targeted by a distributed denial-of-service, or DDoS attack, in which networks are overwhelmed by data from multiple sources over a short period. The bank said internet transactions were functioning again by approximately 10 a.m. The system failure led the Tokyo-based financial institution to encourage customers to use automated teller machines for urgent transactions. Recently, a series of cyberattacks have struck Japanese companies. On Monday, Resona Bank said its internet banking service for individual clients was temporarily disrupted, apparently due to a DDoS attack. In December, the systems of another Japanese megabank, MUFG Bank, as well as those of Japan Airlines are also thought to have come under DDoS attack. Related coverage: Mizuho suffers another system glitch, online banking partly disrupted Dec. 31PLAINS, Ga. Former 39th President Jimmy Carter died at 100 years of age Sunday. Carter, a Georgia peanut farmer, began his presidency in 1977 after he defeated 39th President Gerald R. Ford in the General Election. Carter served one term and left office in 1981 after losing to Ronald Reagan, but his service afterward is what earned him a reputation as a statesman. "I would say that from a humanitarian standpoint, he is probably one of the best presidents we've ever had," 13th District State Representative Alex Ybarra, R-Quincy, said. "I think that he tried to do his best for all people across not only the country but also the world." After leaving office Carter continued his work as a humanitarian for more than 20 years before he earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work mediating peace between Egypt and Israel during his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In a situation currently marked by threats of the use of power, Carter has stood by the principles that conflicts must as far as possible be resolved through mediation and international cooperation based on international law, respect for human rights, and economic development," said the Norwegian Nobel Committee Announcement of the award in 2002. Carter spent the last two years in hospice care at his home in Plains, Ga. His state funeral is scheduled for Jan. 9 at the Washington National Cathedral. Carter is to be flown back to Georgia for a private funeral and burial. President Joe Biden, who announced the funeral, also announced all federal agencies will be closed on the date for a National Day of Mourning for Carter, the longest-lived former president. Flags began to fly at half-staff Sunday which will continue for thirty days. "Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian," reads a statement from Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. "Over six decades, we had the honor 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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement History Carter, who was seldom referred to by his full name James Earl Carter, Jr. was born Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Ga. He grew up peanut farming, learning and discussing politics and devoting himself to the Baptist faith. His father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a farmer and businessman and his mother Lillian Gordy Carter was a registered nurse. "Jimmy Carter was a great American and lived a life devoted to service," Governer-elect and current Attorney General Bob Ferguson said in an email to the Columbia Basin Herald. He went to the public schools in Plains before attending Georgia Southwestern College and Georgia Institute of Technology. At 22, he graduated with a bachelor of science from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., in 1946. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He soon later married Rosalynn Smith. They were married for 77 years before she died in 2023. Carter and his wife had the longest relationship in presidential history, meeting one another when he was three and she was just a day old. The two had three sons, John William, James Earl III, Donnell Jeffrey and one daughter Amy Lynn. He then served seven years as a naval officer as a submariner in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. He was chosen by Admiral Hyman Rickover for the nuclear submarine program and spent some time in New York where he did graduate work at Union College which focused on reactor technology and nuclear physics. "I am a Southerner and an American, I am a farmer, an engineer, a father and husband, a Christian, a politician and former governor, a planner, a businessman, a nuclear physicist, a naval officer, a canoeist, and among other things a lover of Bob Dylan's songs and Dylan Thomas's poetry," Carter said in his 1975 book "Why Not the Best." He then returned to Georgia. In 1962, Carter began his political career serving on country boards regarding education, the local hospital authority and the library. He then won an election to the Georgia Senate in 1962. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For a politician, he took the time to talk to the people," 13th District Legislative Representative Tom Dent said. "I have always admired that. He didn't have to do that, but he did." Nine years after starting his political career he was elected as the 76th Governor of Georgia in 1971. He served as the Democratic National Committee campaign chairman for the 1974 congressional and gubernatorial elections. "Jimmy Carter rose from humble rural beginnings to become a decorated Naval officer, a successful businessperson, and the President of the United States," Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., wrote in a statement. "He promised and delivered Americans the truth in a time of political division and mistrust." Presidency Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1974, he announced his candidacy for President and began his two-year campaign. At the Democratic Convention, he was nominated on the first ballot. He then chose Minnesota Senator Walter F. Mondale as his running mate. Carter won the 1977 election with 297 electoral votes to Gerald Ford's 241. "I lived through Jimmy Carter, and he was always a great guy, super-duper, duper guy, the most wonderful person you ever could have as president," Ybarra said. While president he dealt with energy shortages and helped to establish a national energy policy by stimulating the production of petroleum by decontrolling the prices. He helped to deregulate the trucking and airline industries. "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," President-elect Donald Trump wrote in a statement on Truth Social. "For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also focused heavily on the environment by expanding the national park system to protect 103 million acres of Alaska. "President Carter was one of the first presidents to truly understand the value of protecting and preserving our nation's public lands and waters," Cantwell said in a statement. "We owe preservation of premiere Alaskan wilderness and many other wild places to his leadership." Another priority Carter had in his term was the environment even installing solar panels on the White House to create more sustainable energy. "There are many reasons to reflect on the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter," Washington Governor Jay Inslee wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "One is the vision he had for renewable energy that is now being realized." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter also created the Department of Education and advanced the Social Security System. His presidency also had a record number of appointed women, African Americans and Hispanic people into government jobs. "Back in the day when he was president, I was in my 20s, he wasn't the best president, but he did what he could," Dent said. "I don't agree with all of his policies, but he really wanted a peaceful world, and he did his best for that. I know how challenging it can be in politics, and I can only imagine being the president." Humanitarian Carter has been praised by many political figures and citizens alike for his humanitarian work, including his long-term work with Habitat for Humanity and his and his wife's non-profit, The Carter Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "His leadership extended far beyond the Oval Office, with a longstanding legacy in humanitarian work as he built affordable housing, promoted democracy across the globe, and helped to wipe out an endemic disease," Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association Chair and Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis wrote in a statement. "Blayre and mine's thoughts and prayers are with their family and loved ones. May his memory serve as a blessing and inspiration." In 1982, he became a professor at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. While also teaching, he and his wife started their nonprofit which helped resolve conflict, protect human rights and prevent diseases. The center helped spearhead the international effort to eradicate Guinea worm disease, the second human disease in history to be eliminated. "The Habitat for Humanity he has been doing forever," Dent said. "He was out there pounding nails. He was the president of the United States, and he was out there pounding nails. That's pretty humble." Carter and his wife then started the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project with Habitat for Humanity to help create affordable housing and fund repairs and renovations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Carter was in office before I became involved with politics, but I was impressed by his kindness and his ability to bring people together," Washington State Senator Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, said. "He brought Egypt and Israel, the leaders of those two countries together, and then he is one that was very active in Habitat for Humanity. I was thankful for his involvement in Habitat for Humanity to help people become homeowners." Carter and his wife worked with Habitat for Humanity for around 30 years starting in 1984 in Americus, Georgia. Every year they volunteered for one week a year to help people in the United States and other countries struggling with housing. "The passing of President Jimmy Carter is a loss felt by millions around the globe and certainly throughout the Habitat for Humanity organization. A man deeply committed to social justice and basic human rights, President Carter dedicated himself to alleviating human suffering," said a statement from The Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project Team. According to Habitat for Humanity, the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project helped by working alongside around 108,100 volunteers in 14 countries who helped build, renovate or repair around 4,450 homes. The work also raised awareness of the importance of affordable housing. "We will be forever grateful to President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, for their dedication to Habitat for Humanity and the work they did to provide more affordable housing," Cantwell wrote in a statement. "My heart and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time." SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Former President Jimmy Carter entered hospice care in early 2023, spending his remaining days at home instead of a hospital. Before his death Sunday at the age of 100, he became the longest-living president in history. Carter was elected to the White House in 1976 and served one term. The 39th president was no stranger to South Dakota. A KELOLAND News crew was on hand as he was visiting the Sieverding farm west of Hartford in 1976. Former DOR employee pleads guilty to forgery Carter saw hogs, cattle, corn and learned about the problems of one South Dakota farmer firsthand, said KELOLAND reporter Brian Bjerke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After losing to Ronald Regan in 1980, Carter and his wife Roslynn formed the Carter Center in Atlanta. The nonprofit would go on to improve health care, observe elections, and overcome the stigma of mental health issues around the world. He earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. However, he may be best known to some for his involvement in Habitat for Humanity. By the end of this week, there will be 30 brand new homes completed and occupied by families who I think will be very happy, Carter told KELOLAND News. In 1995 he talked with KELOLANDs Angela Kennecke while helping build some homes in Eagle Butte. Jimmy Carter worked right alongside everybody else, was swinging a hammer doing all the things he knew how to build homes and it was pretty impressive, said Kennecke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She spent a week in Eagle Butte, and says the project brought in around a thousand volunteers. Kennecke remembers Carter as a kind man. When I got the chance to interview him he was so down to earth. He was so kind, exactly what you would expect right, he was the man that you saw, said Kennecke. The Carter Center said he died peacefully Sunday afternoon in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. Governor Noem has ordered flags in the state to be flown at half-staff until January 28th to honor the former president. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) The family of Robert Brooks spoke publicly for the first time since his death in the aftermath of a brutal beating at Marcy Correctional Facility earlier this month. Loved ones and activists demanding change gathered for a rally and vigil Monday night outside the Monroe County Jail in Rochester. Photo of Robert Brooks. Provided: Brooks Family. Brooks, a Greece native, was incarcerated at the facility in 2017 sentenced to serve 12-years behind bars for assaulting a woman with a knife. However more than halfway through his sentence, Brooks died Dec. 10 after the NYS Attorney General said he was beaten by several staff members, most of them correction officers. Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday announced she was heartbroken by this unnecessary loss of life. Monday night calls for change rang out as loved ones mourned the loss of Brooks in Rochester. It comes just days after the AG released body camera footage of the alleged assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Attorney General releases video of Marcy Correctional inmate beating He took advantage of every opportunity to make a positive impact on his community. He had a loving, generous heart and a special concern for young people, said Robert Brooks Jr., the son of Robert Brooks. Our deepest wishes are that my fathers death will not be in vain. His killing must be a catalyst for change. Robert Brooks Jr. at Mondays rally. Loved ones told News 8 that they were still coming to terms with the situation, adding that the past few weeks have been taking a toll on the entire family. Our family has focused on supporting one another. But the circumstances surrounding my fathers death has been massively hard. We are taking one thing at a time, Brooks Jr. said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends, family and those wanting to see meaningful change chanted and rallied as those incarcerated inside the Monroe County Jail flashed their cell lights on and off in solidarity. Reuben Becoats told News 8 the body camera footage released struck a chord with him, as his own son was incarcerated. The Brookss son, and his parents are members of my church, and I think anybody that got a family member incarcerated should be here tonight, Becoats said. Stand up for their rights out here because no one deserves to be treated like that, you know. And the guys have been getting away with this, its time to stop. Its really time to stop. Hochul visits Marcy Correctional, demands answers in Brooks death According to DOCCS, the following staff members have been suspended without pay: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sgt. Michael Mashaw Sgt. Glenn Trombly CO Matthew Galliher CO Nicholas Anzalone CO David Kingsley CO Nicholas Kieffer CO Robert Kessler CO Michael Fisher CO Christopher Walrath CO Michael Along CO Shea Schoff CO David Walters Nurse Kyle Dashnaw Only one person resigned: CO Anthony Farina. Monday nights rally joined mounting calls for systemic change throughout communities across New York State. The way that Mr. Brooks was killed is just horrifying its terrible enough to lose a loved one, especially an incarcerated loved one when the family knows that they werent with them during their final moments, but I think its especially hard to know that youve lost a loved one this way to this kind of senseless act of violence, said Elizabeth Mazur, Partner Attorney at Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd., a law firm based in Chicago. Mazur is representing the Brooks Family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve heard these more recent reports about how some of these officers had been involved in other, you know, alleged acts of pretty extreme violence against prisoners and you know have been involved in ongoing litigation so it certainly raises questions about you know whether theres a real cultural problem thats been allowed to fester at Marcy or sort of within the prison system in general, Mazur said. One week ago, Mazur recalled first meeting with the Brooks Family alongside investigators and the Attorney General for the first-time viewing of the disturbing footage. Mazur noted, while it has been difficult for the family, in general, to bear witness to such treatment of a loved one, the need for accountability is paramount. Our office has been contacted by so many people over the last week who have said they have been at Marcy or been formally incarcerated, that viewing this video has just brought them to tears because they know things like this happen all the time just that people you know its just not seen. Or people dont believe it, and really just sort of wishing us well and sending the best to the Brooks family and that is something thats really stuck with me, said Mazur. In my years of working, in particularly getting to know some incarcerated people, people will tell you things like this do happen with some frequency and I think when you look at the video and sort of see the expressions on the officers faces and the body language of people around there, you certainly get that sense that this is not like an exceptional act, or not something that doesnt happen with some frequency and so part of what we are going to learn about and get as much information as we can about is what werewhat was in place systemically that kind of led us to what happened to Mr. Brooks in December of this month and I know the family is very interested in learning the answers to those questions to and ensuring that things like this dont happen, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He thought he would die that day: Marcy CO allegedly involved in deadly beating named in separate lawsuit Mazur also noted the family is planning, in the far future, to file a civil lawsuit over Robert Brooks death. In the meantime, the AG investigation into the matter remains ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. Stargazers wont have to wait too long into the new year to welcome the Wolf Moon. The Wolf Moon, the widely used name for the years first full moon, is expected on January 13, reaching peak illumination at 5:27 p.m. Eastern time, according to the Farmers Almanac. The terms origins have multiple explanations. Multiple North American Indigenous nations used wolf terms to describe winter moons, including the Cheyenne referring to the moons of November and December as when wolves run together and the Sioux using a term meaning the same for Januarys moon, according to Western Washington University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Celtic and Old English folklore arrived at a similar name for the early year full moon when wolves would have been heard howling in the night in both Britain and North America, where descendants of these cultures settled. The January Full Moon is known as the Wolf Moon by some European cultures, due to the evocative calls of wolves as they search for food in the depth of winter, Dr. Darren Baskill, an astrophysicist from the University of Sussex, told BBC Science Focus this year. A full moon behind Waraira Repano National Park, in Caracas, Venezuela, in January 2024 (EPA) Wolves were hunted to extinction in the UK just 250 years ago, being Britains last apex predator to go extinct, he added. But their presence is still remembered today through the oral tradition of the names of the Full Moon. The year 2024 was host to a number of spectacular lunar events, including supermoons, when new or full moons are within 90 percent of their closest approach to Earth, appearing larger and brighter than usual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, stargazers were treated to a rare partial eclipse of a supermoon. A hunter's moon sets over Mojave, California, on October 17, 2024 (AFP via Getty Images) In October, an extra-large, orange-colored Hunters Moon rose in the sky. The following month, another supermoon, the Beaver Moon, was visible - the fourth supermoon of the year. The last full moon of the year, the Cold Moon, rose in the early morning hours of December 15. When viewing a supermoon, or full moon of any kind, experts recommend finding an area away from street lights and other forms of light pollution to get a clearer view. To photograph one, some recommend framing the orb with a landmark. Think of how to be creative that means tying it into some land-based object, Nasa senior photographer Bill Ingalls once told The Independent. It can be a local landmark or anything to give your photo a sense of place. NEW MEXICO (KRQE) Cases of norovirus, a contagious and unpleasant stomach bug, are on the rise; thats according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data from 14 states across the U.S., including New Mexico. KRQE News 13 spoke with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) about the concerning trend. We have seen reports coming out of CDC that has been increasing really since the end of October and through November and particularly December, said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist of NMDOH. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While traditionally more common in the winter months, this year NMDOH said its popping up more as holiday gatherings have ramped up. It was disrupted a bit in the pandemic because people were isolated and avoiding some of those; and its starting to come back like we saw before the COVID pandemic, Smelser said. Nationally, CDC data across 14 states shows 91 outbreaks the week of December 5up from 69 outbreaks the week of November 28. Weve seen four outbreaks of norovirus. Theyve all essentially been the long-term care facilities around the state, and we dont necessarily detect them all so we expect there may be even more, Smelser said. He says this years viral activity may reach pre-pandemic levels of spread. Smelser says the best way to protect yourself is diligent handwashing: And to avoid those who are sick and if you have the symptoms consistent with norovirusnausea, vomiting, and diarrheathen you should not be preparing food for others and you should be isolating yourself as much as possible, Smelser says. NMDOH said symptoms usually start 24 to 48 hours after people are exposed. If theyre severe and last longer than three days, NMDOH said you should seek medical attention. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. HONOLULU (KHON2) With the New Year hours away, the Honolulu Fire Department is urging residents to celebrate the holiday safely with alternatives to setting off your own fireworks. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Fireworks start over 31,000 fires annually, HFD said. Additionally more than a third of fireworks injuries happen to keiki under the age of 15. Alternatives provided by the department include attending a professional fireworks show, glow sticks, using noise makers and planning indoor activities to keep keiki off the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The number of people experiencing homelessness is at an all-time high in Franklin County. The Community Shelter Board, a local nonprofit helping address the issue, predicts it will only get worse because of a lack of affordable housing. The success stories of people getting out of homelessness and into housing are few and far between. However, one Columbus shelter is trying to reverse that trend. In the last month the shelter founder has been able to get three people into housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eatery serving pan pizzas and stuffed cookies opens its doors in Gahanna 3rd Shift Warming Cooling Center is open 24/7, accepts pets and is a space for those who may have been kicked out of other shelters. The goal is to help everyone they can, and their model is paying off. I didnt know that this shelter was going to be my turning point, 3rd Shift client Malcolm Dawson said. I didnt know, I assumed another problem and another amount of days and it wasnt. Dawson and his dog Reese have been without a home for the last three years. Sometimes I would be incarcerated at Jackson Pike for a month or two, he said. I used to walk the streets around summertime to fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says this took a toll. He struggled with his mental health and was kicked out of multiple shelters. Is mail delivered on New Years Day? Its created like anger and just sort I want to like yell or feel like I need to do something, Dawson said. Then he found 3rd Shift, which takes in pets and ides supplies and support services. Dawson got a job and with the help of 3rd Shift, found a home. We partner with Maryhaven, that does housing, also with the community health workers that I have here as well that comes to help the guest with housing, food stamps, medical. We also have an in-house mental health intrinsic, founder and CEO of 3rd Shift Warming Cooling Center Jasmine Franklin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dawsons story is one that we dont hear often with the housing crisis. Since last year, homelessness has risen 3.3% across Ohio. Of the states that surround it, Ohio has the second highest population of homeless individuals, just behind Pennsylvania, and about 2,000 more than Michigan, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Former NBC4 journalist looks back on her time working with President Jimmy Carter I get mainly the people thats been coming from the campgrounds and stuff since theyve been closing down, Franklin said. Just a month with 3rd Shift has helped Dawson beat the housing odds and get a roof over his head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just feel so much peace, Dawson said. A report released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development outlines how numbers compare across the United States. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. For Central Texans who lived through the two major winter storms that hit this decade, January is a foreboding month. In 2021 and again in 2023, the early months of the year brought weather that resulted in widespread power outages, dangerous road conditions, flight cancellations and even deaths. But conditions are expected to be far less extreme in early 2025, according to the National Weather Service's New Braunfels/San Antonio office. That's due to the resurgence of La Nina, a naturally occurring weather pattern that causes the Southern United States to experience warmer and drier winters, New Braunfels-based NWS meteorologist Mack Morris said during a recent webinar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From January to March, he said, temperatures are likely to be above normal with below-average precipitation. By late winter or early spring, he said, La Nina is expected to weaken and be replaced by a neutral weather pattern. Still, Morris said that snow has previously fallen in the Austin area during La Nina winters, so he's not ruling out the possibility of at least a few flurries. He noted that the region has seen snowfall during about 40% of winters since record-keeping began in 1891. "Significant events are not out of the question, but they are quite rare," Morris said. "Based on the historical recurrence, it is unlikely that we see another winter storm" this year. But it's not all good news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite recent rainfall, the Austin area still is in a drought. Those conditions could worsen and even expand with the below-average rainfall that's expected in late winter and early spring, Morris said. As drought worsens, the risk of wildfires grows. On Monday, the Texas Division of Emergency Management said it would mobilize resources to many western counties with high fire risk. Also Monday, the weather service issued a red flag warning for the Hill Country and the southern Edwards Plateau due to expected record high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds. The warning was expected to be short-term, since the windy conditions were expected to die down in Central Texas by Tuesday with the arrival of a cold front, said Cory Van Pelt, another New Braunfels-based NWS meteorologist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have a lot of dead grass and stuff sitting around, and we get these dry, cold fronts. The wind picks up, low humidity, and it's just prime for wildfire to break out," Van Pelt said. "And that's sort of what we're expecting." This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Central Texas less likely to have winter storms this year CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) People are not popping champagne like they used to this New Years. Northampton to host 40th annual First Night celebration USA Today reports that there has been a 15% decline in the first half of the year compared to the same time last year. Financial experts say current situations, whether global or economic, may lead to people not wanting to cheer up and open a bottle for the new year. Despite the dip, reports show that champagne remains above pre-pandemic levels, while sparkling wine sales were up 16%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report says the grape harvest this year which creates the wine, has also been affected by poor weather conditions. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Cambodian diplomat calls for future China-Cambodia cross-border e-commerce cooperation People's Daily Online) 19:40, December 31, 2024 A photo shows Taing Sokngorn, Cambodian consul general in Nanning, as he sits down for an interview with People's Daily Online. (People's Daily Online) Taing Sokngorn, Cambodian consul general in Nanning, emphasized the significance of cross-border e-commerce cooperation between China and Cambodia during a recent interview with People's Daily Online. With the digital economy becoming an important force in promoting international trade and investment, the cooperation between Cambodia and China in the fields of digital economy and cross-border e-commerce has also deepened in recent years. "In my opinion, China has advanced experience in e-commerce and digital technology, which provides important learning opportunities for Cambodia," said Sokngorn, as he summarized the cooperation on e-commerce between the two nations. With its unique location, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region shares geographic proximity and cultural ties with southeast Asia, making it an important trade center with ASEAN. In recent years, Guangxi has actively engaged in e-commerce exchanges with ASEAN countries, further strengthening collaboration between ASEAN and Chinese enterprises. When talking about commercial cooperation between the two nations, Sokngorn stressed its importance and positive impact. "E-commerce activities offer a platform for enterprises from both nations to explore new areas of cooperation and business opportunities," said Sokngorn. "Through such activities, ASEAN countries and Chinese companies have the chance to understand each other's market demands, discover shared opportunities, and establish more comprehensive cooperative relationships." Regarding the future of deepening Cambodia-China cooperation, Sokngorn also offered his suggestions. "Both countries could establish data-sharing mechanisms so that the efficiency of e-commerce services could be boosted. Additionally, both countries could further open their markets, reduce trade barriers in cross-border e-commerce, and promote the free flow of goods and services to consumers." Sokngorn also took the opportunity to introduce multiple Cambodian specialty goods, including Cambodian jasmine rice, Cambodian coffee, and Cambodian handicrafts to Chinese consumers via People's Daily Online. He also expressed his invitation to Chinese audiences to get to know more about Cambodia. "Cambodian goods perfectly showcase our rich historical and cultural heritage, I hope Chinese consumers like our products, and our country," Sokngorn said. Peng Yukai contributed to this story. (Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Du Mingming) KYODO NEWS - Dec 31, 2024 - 09:45 | World, All North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told Russian President Vladimir Putin in a letter that relations between their countries have reached a "new high" while pledging to strengthen bilateral military ties, state-run media said Tuesday. In the letter sent Monday to commemorate the New Year, Kim referred to Putin as his "dearest friend and comrade," the official Korean Central News Agency reported. Kim wished Putin "greater success in his responsible and heavy state leadership activities," while expressing hope that 2025 will be "recorded as the first year" of Russia's "war victory in the 21st century," according to KCNA. Pyongyang has dispatched troops to Russia to support its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. In December, North Korea said its defense cooperation pact with Russia, called the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, took effect. The agreement, signed in June by Kim and Putin, includes a provision committing to mutual assistance if either nation comes under attack. Related coverage: 50,000 Russian, North Korean troops in Kursk fighting against Ukraine North Korea ratifies defense treaty with Russia amid Ukraine war CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for help in solving a homicide that happened in Champaign Township earlier this month. Just before 9 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10, Champaign County Sheriffs deputies were sent to a residence on Dobbins Drive near Roland Drive for a report of a shooting. Deputies found a man with a gunshot wound inside. 1 arrested, 1 hospitalized after rollover crash in Champaign Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First responders rendered lifesaving care, but the victim, later identified as Alvin Parker, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are also asking nearby businesses and residents to review the footage for any suspicious people or cars captured in the area from the night of the shooting. Police say video footage may be of investigative assistance. Anyone with any information on this or any other crime in Champaign County should contact Crime Stoppers at 217-373-TIPS, 373tips.com, or via the P3 Tips mobile app. All tipsters are completely anonymous when contacting Crime Stoppers. Cash rewards of up to $5,000 can be paid to tipsters for information leading to an arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. A Florida court has dismissed charges against a 79-year-old man who invoked a controversial self-defense law after fatally shooting his neighbors adult son as he trimmed tree limbs and threatened him from the defendants side of a shared fence. The case drew attention as another seemingly ordinary misunderstanding between neighbors turned deadly in a nation with more guns than people. It also shined a fresh spotlight on Floridas controversial Stand Your Ground law, which like others across US states lets people respond to threats with potentially lethal force and no fear of criminal prosecution; such measures have been linked to increased homicide rates. A Volusia County Court judge ruled Friday that Edward Druzolowski, is immune from prosecution after asserting a claim of self-defense, court records show. The defendant argued he felt threatened by his neighbors son, who was known to have a criminal history and a reputation for violence, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim, Brian Ford, 42, was trimming tree branches on September 17, 2023, along the fence separating his parents property in DeLeon Springs, Florida, from Druzolowskis. Believing Ford was cutting from his own side, Druzolowski had initially not intervened. But, after his wife told him that Ford was on their side of the fence, Druzolowski armed himself with a gun and went outside to ask Ford to leave the property. Ford, who was with his 8-year-old son, reacted aggressively when confronted, court documents revealed. The two men exchanged words, and Ford reportedly threatened the defendant with a chainsaw, prompting Druzolowski to draw the firearm. Ford allegedly continued to advance toward Druzolowski despite being warned to stop, and the defendant fired his weapon, fatally wounding Ford. In his defense, Druzolowski cited his age, physical frailty due to osteoporosis and the size difference between him and Ford. The court found Druzolowskis use of force was reasonable given Fords aggressive behavior and violent reputation. Additionally, the victims own young son reportedly told police his father had threatened the defendant during the confrontation. The courts decision to grant Druzolowskis motion to dismiss the charges followed a finding that prosecutors failed to provide clear and convincing evidence he was not entitled to immunity on the basis of Floridas Stand Your Ground law, which allows people to respond to threats with force and without a duty to retreat in certain situations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling has renewed debate over the use of Floridas divisive law, with proponents arguing it protects individuals in self-defense situations, and critics contending it can lead to unjust outcomes in cases involving questionable circumstances. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Monday night, the Lowcountry celebrated Charlestons 17th annual Chanukah in the Square. Chanukah is one of those holidays that brings out the light and were lucky to do that every year, said Rabbi Yossi Refson. The Center for Jewish life puts on Chanukah in the Square every year to celebrate the Jewish Holiday. Charleston has a history of religious tolerance which is one of the reasons the event takes place in Marion Square in the heart of the city. Charleston has a wonderful history of religious tolerance and Chanukah is the holiday where we celebrate our religious freedom and we celebrate it publicly we can celebrate our traditions here in Marion square the most public place in Charleston, said Refson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is traditional food, live music and decorations as the low country celebrates Chanukah. South Carolina leaders spoke at the event including representative Nancy Mace, State Attorney General Alan Wilson, and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette. Its great we can all celebrate together. Everybody of all faiths coming together and standing in solidarity to make sure we can worship freely: thats what this country is based on. Thats why my grandparents came here, they said this is the best place in the world. You can worship any way you want; you can be anything you want here in the United States and thats what this shows. Here in South Carolina, were special, we dont let hatred, and we dont let racism cast a dark shadow over our state, said Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette. State Attorney General Alan Wilson said this event is an opportunity to show support for the Jewish community in South Carolina. This Jewish community is one of the oldest Jewish communities in the United States of America and we come from different faiths and different traditions, but we have a shared history we have a shared value system and being down here to support this community and rededicate ourselves as we go into 2025 is a real special thing for me, said Wilson. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. The National Resistance Center (NRC) has obtained a letter from Turpal Ilyasov, the representative of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov in Russia's Ural Federal District, containing instructions on how to comment on the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan. Source: NRC Details: Reportedly, Kadyrov has an extensive network of representatives throughout Russia. The document received by the NRC was drafted and sent on behalf of Turpal Ilyasov, Kadyrovs representative in the Ural Federal District. The letter outlining Kadyrovs official position on the plane crash in Kazakhstan Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: NRC The source that provided Ilyasovs letter to the NRC received it from Ilyasovs son, Adam, who also works at the representative office as the head of the secretariat and is responsible for media relations. The NRC said the document is essentially a "directive" outlining what should and should not be commented on. The text reflects the stance of Kadyrov and his administration head, Galas Taimaskhanov. Quote from the NRC: "In particular, the letter shows how language in Russia is becoming a tool for building a parallel reality. For example, it is suggested to ignore any references to the downing of the plane. Instead, it is recommended to call it a tragic incident," the NRC said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter states that "we do not comment on the situation surrounding this incident; if comments are allowed, we should avoid the phrases downing, air defence strike, etc., and instead use the phrases unfortunate mistake, air incident, tragic coincidence, etc. We also do not comment on the work of air defence forces and means, especially the deployment of air defence installations around the city of Grozny, which is the prerogative of the Defence Ministry." The letter also reveals details of behind-the-scenes power struggles within Russias political elite. For instance, it asserts that Russia never admits to any wrongdoings, and that this is Putins definitive stance. As a result, the incident is simply being described as a "tragic accident that occurred in Russian airspace". Furthermore, the letter suggests that Putins dependence on the loyalty of Chechen leaders is critical. It notes that "Putin also assured Kadyrov that the Chechen authorities acted in full compliance with the challenges dictated by the situation", adding that "the tragedy of the crash can be explained by the incompetence and inability to respond flexibly to emergency situations of air traffic controllers". Background: On 25 December, an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer aircraft en route from Baku to Grozny crashed near the Kazakh city of Aktau on the Caspian Sea. According to Azerbaijan Airlines, 67 people were on board, including 5 crew members. Of these, 42 were citizens of Azerbaijan, 16 were Russians, 6 were Kazakhs, and 3 were Kyrgyz nationals. Azerbaijan Airlines said the crash had been caused by external physical and technical interference. During a telephone conversation with Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev on 28 December, Russian leader Vladimir Putin apologised for the fact that a "tragic incident" involving an Azerbaijan Airlines plane occurred in Russian airspace, but did not admit Russias guilt. On 29 December, Aliyev stated that the Azerbaijan Airlines plane, which was involved in an incident over Russian territory, was shot at from the ground. He also demanded that Russia acknowledge its responsibility and provide compensation. On the same day, Putin called Aliyev for the second time, and they continued their discussions regarding the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash. Support UP or become our patron! GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) The Greenville County Sheriffs Office said an investigation is underway due to the passing of a four-year-old child. The Greenville County Coroners Office confirmed with 7NEWS that Addison Rebecca Carr, of Greenville, was pronounced dead at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 26. Carr was admitted to the hospital on Sunday, Dec. 22 according to investigators. Deputies reported that the sheriffs office was requested by Prisma Health the following day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details regarding the cause and manner of death are pending due to the outcomes of the coroners office autopsy results according to deputies. Deputies said they are unable to confirm if there are any potential suspect(s) at this time. Carrs death remains under investigation by the GCSO. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. 36,706 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? 36,706 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? (Bloomberg) -- China cracked down on rumors that a Washington zoo abused its pandas, as it seeks to steady ties with the US weeks before President-elect Donald Trump is set to return to the White House. Most Read from Bloomberg Police in Sichuan accused two people of spreading false information that the bears, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, were mistreated at the National Zoo in Washington, according to an official statement on Friday. The man and woman also incited boycotts of international efforts to conserve the animals, authorities alleged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law enforcement action contrasted with Chinas jab at the US last year over the health of a panda at the Memphis Zoo after images showed it looking emaciated. Both countries denied there was any foul play, although Chinese diplomat Hua Chunying fanned anger by comparing the pandas condition with a photo of the bear looking healthier back in Beijing. At the time, all pandas in the US including Mei Xiang and Tian Tian were being sent back to China after ties sank to a new low over an alleged Chinese spy balloon. Their future presence in America was secured only after President Xi Jinping renewed panda diplomacy last November following his meeting with his US counterpart Joe Biden. The crackdown on rumors about the US treatment of the Chinese national symbol is now similarly seen as a gesture of goodwill as Beijing braces for a turbulent second Trump presidency and struggles with an economic slowdown at home. Police said the suspects profited from the rumors through live streaming, earning as much as 170,000 yuan ($23,290), according to the Friday statement. The crime began in June 2023 and authorities began to investigate in March this year after receiving complaints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They must have done a thorough investigation over these nine months, said one Chinese social media user, among several questioning the timing of the prosecution. The Chinese government opposes the dissemination and proliferation of false information that deliberately smears international cooperation on giant panda conservation and obstructs normal international exchanges, the Foreign Ministry said in response to Bloomberg News. China has long used its national animal to curry favor, reward friends and punish adversaries. The ruling Communist Party first gave the US pandas after President Richard Nixon normalized relations in 1972, from when pandas have had a continuous presence in the National Zoo barring a yearlong gap after Hsing-Hsings death in late 1999. The police action coincided with Chinas broad range of efforts to mend ties with other countries including by opening more sectors to foreign investment, wooing tourists with visa-free arrangements and reversing a ban on seafood imports from Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a condolence message Monday over the passing of former US leader Jimmy Carter, who officially recognized the Peoples Republic, Chinese President Xi Jinping said the country was ready to work with America to advance ties in a sound, stable and healthy direction. The Communist Party mouthpiece the Peoples Daily last week also called for public submissions showcasing US-China friendship, a largely symbolic move showing Beijings intent to promote ties. The tide has changed. So should we still hate on the US? one user asked on the Weibo social networking site. --With assistance from Jing Li and Philip Glamann. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with comments from Chinese Foreign Ministry in eighth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- China has awarded a range of civil servants across the nation their first significant pay rise in years, according to people familiar with the matter, as policymakers try to boost morale and spur spending. Most Read from Bloomberg The basic salaries of many government employees have been bolstered by at least 500 yuan ($68.51) per month, according to people who asked not to be identified discussing sensitive matters. That wage hike has been backdated to July, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The percentage increases varied depending on the base salary, with one of the people saying it amounted to a raise of roughly 5%. China last publicly hiked civil servants wages in 2015, when some 40 million staffers got an average lift of 300 yuan per month. Social media users suggested salaries were also boosted in 2018 and 2021, but the government never confirmed the hikes and the percentage increases are unclear. The Communist Party hasnt published a public announcement on this months wage hikes, making it hard to determine the scope of the program or who will foot the bill. But the unexpected increase extends to teachers, policemen and bureaucrats from around the nation of 1.4 billion people, the people said. For some, the pay rises appeared without explanation. A police officer in southwestern China said he saw a 3,500 yuan lump sum in his December payslip labeled back payment, though he wasnt owed any money. His colleague said it was a raise going back to July, according to the officer, who asked not to be named discussing a private matter. Chinas State Council Information Office and Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security didnt reply to faxed requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Xi Jinping has declared boosting domestic consumption the top priority for 2025, as his government ramps up efforts to bolster a slowing economy battling its longest deflationary streak since 1999. Officials so far have relied on rate cuts and housing sector support to encourage spending, refraining from nationwide cash handouts for consumers. Lump sum payments to government workers will put money in their pockets right before the New Year and Spring Festival holidays. Pay rises for civil servants alone, however, risk sparking a backlash from private sector workers struggling with wage declines. While the initial impact likely wont be huge given the limited number of civil servants, it could raise hopes of authorities extending support to a broader population, said Eric Zhu of Bloomberg Economics. If more households in the non-public sector such as low-income groups or parents with children can benefit from cash support, that would be a bigger boost to consumer confidence and spending, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials are ramping up support for lower income groups to ensure social stability, after economic pressures coincided with a spate of fatal attacks this year. Shanghai announced Tuesday it will boost subsidies and housing support for families with multiple children, while the government recently urged local authorities to issue more handouts to those struggling with the cost of living. Read: CHINA INSIGHT: Childcare Aid? Another Effective Fiscal Boost Its unclear if regional authorities can afford to do so. Civil servants have been complaining over the past year of slashed bonuses, falling wages and delayed salary payments, after the property crash created a debt crisis for local governments. Thats left the foot soldiers Xi relies on to boost growth lying flat, with even the nations richest provinces seeing a slowdown. One teacher in eastern China said that while her pay had increased in December, with a lump sum going back to the summer, when taking into account the deep bonus cuts of recent years her wages hadnt actually risen. Another civil servant said the bump amounted to far less than several rounds of pay cuts hed endured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recognizing the problem, Chinas 24-man Politburo earlier this month vowed action to get cadres motivated to engineer the nations economic recovery. That marked a change in tune from Xis warning just a year ago that cadres should get used to belt-tightening. The pay rises also come as Beijing braces for the return of US President-elect Donald Trump, who is vowing to choke Chinese exports that have been a bright spot for the economy. A tariff war would put more urgency on Beijing to get domestic consumers spending. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- China has established a technical committee for Artificial Intelligence (AI) standardization, which is among its efforts to advance the development of the AI industry and empower new industrialization, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on Monday. The new committee, which is overseen by the ministry, is responsible for formulating and revising industrial standards for AI-related sectors, the ministry said in an online statement. This is the first such technical committee that the ministry has established, marking a new phase in the standardization of the AI sector. The move aligns with decisions made at China's Central Economic Work Conference in early December, which emphasized the need to launch an "AI-plus" initiative and nurture industries of the future. China's core AI industry achieved a remarkable scale of 578.7 billion yuan (about 80.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, supported by a thriving ecosystem of 4,482 enterprises, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology shows. Chinese President Xi Jinping painted a picture of a strong Chinese economy in his New Years speech, while also alluding to external uncertainties as President-elect Trump prepares to return to the Oval Office. The Chinese economy faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones, Xi said in his New Years Eve message, acknowledging the nation cannot rely as heavily on international investment, The Wall Street Journal reported. But we can prevail with our hard work, he added, according to the Journal. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His address came just more than a month after Trump said he would impose new tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico and China through an executive order on the first day of his second term. If executed, the order would add 10 percent to the current tariffs on Chinese products, many leftovers from his previous term. Following the announcement, Trump spoke to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and called both conversations productive. Trudeau later traveled to Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in West Palm Beach, Fla. Tensions between the U.S. and China have risen since Trump first took office in 2017. Still, the president-elect invited the Chinese leader to attend his inauguration on Jan. 20 in Washington, a move that drew scrutiny from both sides of the aisle, including allies of Trump. Xi is likely to decline the invitation. This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies but our adversaries and our competitors, too, incoming White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a press conference from Mar-a-Lago earlier this month, the president-elect hailed the Chinese leader as an amazing guy and friend. He also suggested the U.S. and China should work together to solve international problems. China and the United States can, together, solve all of the problems in the world, if you think about it. So, its very important. He was a friend of mine, he said. We spent hours and hours talking, and he is an amazing guy. The press hates when I say that, but hes an amazing person, he added. During his remarks Tuesday, Xi also sent a clear warning to Taiwan about its effort to fight reunification with China, according to Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds, and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification, he said, Reuters reported. His remarks echo comments from last years speech, when the Chinese president said, China will surely be unified, the Journal reported. Beijing has stepped up its military presence around the island following the election of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te in May. The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged New Year greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Dec. 31. Xi emphasized that China and Russia consistently advance together on a "path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party," according to the official Chinese news agency Xinhua. Xi added that "the political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have continuously marched to a higher level under the strategic guidance of the two leaders." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China has deepened its ties with Russia since the start of the Kremlin's full-scale war against Ukraine, although Beijing has denied accusations of supporting Russias military efforts. Since February 2022, Putin has traveled to China twice first just days before launching the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and again in May 2024. Xi is also set to make an official visit to Russia next year, according to the Kremlins ambassador to Beijing, Igor Morgulov, who spoke to Russian media on Dec. 27. Morgulov said that while plans for several bilateral events are being finalized, Xis visit remains a top priority. "What can be said, and this is no secret, is that the chairman of the People's Republic of China is expected in Russia next year," he added. Read also: Xi Jinping reaffirms Chinas stance on Ukraine war settlement Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A Chinese naval fleet made a port call in Vietnam days after the two nations held talks on joint maritime patrols, as they move closer on defence despite their long-standing disputes over the South China Sea. The fleet - led by the Changsha, a destroyer, and amphibious warfare ship Jinggangshan - docked in Da Nang on Vietnam's east coast on Saturday, according to a statement from the People's Liberation Army Southern Theatre Command. It said they were welcomed by Vietnamese navy officials and Chinese diplomats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. The Chinese navy's port call in Vietnam followed talks on joint patrols. Photo: Weibo/PLA Southern Theatre Command alt=The Chinese navy's port call in Vietnam followed talks on joint patrols. Photo: Weibo/PLA Southern Theatre Command> The port call came days after the two navies wrapped up a four-day meeting on joint patrols, in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou. The annual talks focus on management of the Gulf of Tonkin, which is known in China as the Beibu Gulf. Neither side has released any details of the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The talks coincided with a joint patrol by the Chinese and Vietnamese coastguards in the northern part of the Gulf of Tonkin, according to the state-run Vietnam News Agency. It was their fourth such joint patrol, held in waters off the coast of China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region and Vietnam's Quang Ninh province. Part of the joint coastguard patrol mechanism that was established this year, the quarterly patrol aimed to "strengthen coordination in combating crimes and legal violations at sea, particularly during the year-end period", according to the Vietnamese report. The two socialist neighbours have stepped up engagement on maritime issues despite ongoing disputes over their territorial claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's claim to most of the South China Sea overlaps with Vietnam's claims to the eastern waters, which it refers to as the East Sea. They are also among the rival claimants to the Paracel and Spratly Islands in the resource-rich, economically important waterway. Earlier this year, China also for the first time declared a territorial line in the Gulf of Tonkin that is believed to cover a bigger area than the baseline under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos). Vietnam has meanwhile accelerated land reclamation work in the disputed waters this year and conducted its first joint drill with the Philippines in the South China Sea - moves that concerned Beijing. Despite the tensions, Beijing and Vietnam have held a number of high-level exchanges this year as they seek to move closer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met his counterpart Bui Thanh Son in Beijing earlier this month. Chinese Premier Li Qiang also made a high-profile visit to Hanoi in October. And To Lam made Beijing one of his first stops after becoming Vietnam's new leader, meeting President Xi Jinping in August. Beijing and Hanoi also set up a bilateral "3+3" dialogue this year, adding public security to the traditional "2+2" of diplomacy and defence. This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright 2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. It was another big year for Cincinnati's TV news world. Veteran anchors and reporters left their stations, and new faces appeared on Cincinnatians' television screens. Here's a look at the journalists who came and went in 2024, plus other major events. Megan Mitchell returned to WLWT-TV in January 2024. TV anchors and reporters who joined, returned or were promoted at Cincinnati TV stations in 2024 Megan Mitchell , a News 5 (WLWT-TV) anchor and reporter, returned to WLWT in January. Alexis Martin started as a reporter for Fox 19 (WXIX-TV) in January. Connor Steffen joined Channel 9 (WCPO-TV) as a multimedia journalist in July. Sam Harasimowicz joined WCPO as a multimedia journalist in July. Marlena Lang started as a multimedia journalist and reporter for WCPO in July. Jay Shakur joined the WCPO news team as a multimedia journalist in August. De'Jah Gross joined the WCPO news team as a multimedia journalist in September. Katie Amrhein joined Local 12 (WKRC-TV) in July as a general assignment reporter. Sydney Hawkins joined WKRC as a "Good Morning Cincinnati" weekend anchor and reporter in July. Yanni Tragellis joined WKRC as a news reporter in May and was promoted to sports anchor in October. Nicole Aponte joined WLWT as a reporter in June. WCPO anchors Jasmine Styles and Evan Millward left the station in 2024. TV reporters and anchors who left in 2024 The cast of WKRC's "Good Morning Cincinnati" in 2001: Steve Horstmeyer, standing, John Lomax, left, and Cammy Dierking during a rehearsal. WKRC anchor John Lomax died at 72 Longtime WKRC anchor and reporter John Lomax died in March after suffering complications from pneumonia. He was 72. Lomax worked at the station for 39 years and co-anchored "Good Morning Cincinnati" for 32 years, before retiring in 2022. WLW-AM radio host Jim Scott died at 81 Cincinnati radio legend Jim Scott died in June of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 81. Scott, a former WLW-AM (700) morning radio host, retired in 2015 after a 55-year career on the airwaves. Ohio talk show legend Phil Donahue died at age 88 TV icon Phil Donahue died "peacefully following a long illness," in August. Donahue, a Cleveland native, was often referred to as a pioneer and the king of daytime talk shows with a media career that spanned decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Phil Donahue Show" started as a local program in Dayton in 1967 before becoming nationally syndicated in 1969. Former journalist and public relations executive Pat Crowley died unexpectedly in December at his home in Fort Thomas at age 63. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Cincinnati Enquirer journalist Pat Crowley died at age 63 Former journalist and public relations executive Pat Crowley died unexpectedly Dec. 28 at his home in Fort Thomas at age 63. The cause of death was not immediately known. Crowley began his career as a reporter at small community newspapers in Indiana and Kentucky before joining The Cincinnati Post and, later, The Enquirer. He left journalism 15 years ago to start Strategic Advisers, a public relations and marketing firm. Nancy Daly, a former Enquirer editor and reporter, died in October after complications from hip surgery. She was 70. Former Cincinnati Enquirer editor Nancy Daly died at 70 Nancy Daly, a former Enquirer editor and reporter, died in October after complications from hip surgery. She was 70. Daly joined the Community Press Newspapers in 1990 and served as managing editor of the West Side suburban newspapers for a decade. During her tenure, she launched a publication for seniors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daly also managed suburban newspapers on the East Side and was senior editor of the Community Recorder office in Kentucky. Daly eventually continued her career with Gannett after The Enquirer bought the suburban papers. She served as a content strategist and assistant breaking news and communities editor before she retired in 2019. Longtime WCPO reporter and photographer Jay Warren died following a battle with cancer, the TV station announced in June. WCPO reporter and photographer Jay Warren died at 54 Longtime WCPO reporter and photographer Jay Warren died following a battle with cancer, the TV station announced in June. He was 54 years old. Warren joined WCPO after moving to Cincinnati in 2004. Throughout his career, he covered several major news stories, such as the search and arrest of George and Jennifer Hyatte, and was nominated for an Emmy. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: These Cincinnati TV anchors left their stations in 2024 AUSTIN (KXAN) Youre about to get another purple notification slip in the mail, just like you did for the HOME initiative. Starting next month, the city of Austin will start notifying you about changes they could be making to short-term rental (STR) rules, according to several city council members. Council Member Ryan Alter said there are a couple of areas city council seems to be focused so far: setting up rules that are actually workable and usable and enforcement. Airbnbs anti-party tech cracked down on 4,200 Texas guests last New Years Eve Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to make sure that if were having limitations on the number of licenses or number of short-term rentals, is that an appropriate number? Because right now, we have caps that are just not even enforced, Alter said. Second is then on that enforcement piece, we have to make sure that we have the tools necessary so that we can go out and enforce unlicensed short-term rentals. The exact details of what will be on your purple slip and what changes city staff will bring back to council are still being worked out behind the scenes. Youre expected to get those slips in the mail mid-January and the issue could be discussed at meetings in February if all goes as planned. Court rules Austin short-term rental ordinance unconstitutional Right now, our regulations are in a number of places. Some of them are in the zoning code, some of them are in other portions of the city code. What I think youre going to see based on these court decisions is a move away from the zoning element and more into like the business regulations that we see for other types of entities, Alter said. The background This is something KXAN has been reporting on for years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though data from sites like AirDNA show Austin has more than 15,000 short term rentals, which swells during large events like Formula 1 and Austin City Limits Music Festival, less than 15% have the city-required STR license. When we did this report last, in October, the citys Development Services Department (DSD) told KXAN there were 2,278 properties with an active license. It means the city is missing out on millions of dollars and city staff have said it makes cracking down on nuisance properties more difficult. Part of the issue, as KXAN has previously told you and as Alter eluded to, has been legal challenges to STR ordinances nationwide. In December 2022, Austin City Council passed a resolution aimed at cracking down on those STRs, but legal challenges in other cities forced staff to shift gears. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal judge also ruled against the City of Austin last year after a Houston couple filed a lawsuit aimed at the citys STR ordinance prohibiting people from operating one without living at the property. That has further complicated the citys efforts. Other possible solutions? Matt Curtis, the founder of Smart City Policy Group, travels the world helping cities address the intersection of local government and emerging technology with an emphasis on short-term rentals. He just so happens to be in our backyard, headquartered in Austin. I was working on short-term rental regulations and compliance beginning about 12 years ago when I was in the industry but seven years ago I started my own company where we help cities around the world to work on this issue, Curtis said. Thousands in town for F1, ACL, football staying in unlicensed short term rentals Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Curtis says the city of Austins current rules may not be entirely the issue but compliance is. And there is now technology that helps with just that. Now theres actually a lot of opportunity for outsourcing for better compliance. So there are software compliance tools that can almost take care of everything the city needs so that any operator who is able to operate legally is doing so and theyre doing a great job but that anybody who might be doing something inappropriately, theyre addressed quickly and effectively, Curtis said. An online search produces tech companies that offer services for local governments like online portals for both registering and filing complaints more easily, streamlining licensing and better data collection for code enforcement officers. Staying in a short term rental for SXSW? Odds are, its unlicensed Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, Deckard Technologies calls itself a short-term rental identification platform for local government tax & compliance teams. Accela claims to help achieve high registration compliance through simple, online registration for short-term rental hosts. Theyre companies that actually work as an outsourced vendor for a lot of these cities, and they take care of everything from all the registration, but also all the compliance and tax portal information so that cities can achieve their goals, Curtis said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The City of Charlotte issued a warning to residents about a scam involving the citys on-street parking program, Park It. Officials say if you receive a text regarding an outstanding parking citation requesting payment, it is not from the city. Park It has two methods of notifying residents of charges: a paper citation left on the vehicle windshield and a letter delivered via USPS if the citation remains unpaid after 15 days. The city will not send a payment link via text message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents concerned about on-street parking citations can check through the citys Park It web portal. MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM Local News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. The City of Johnstown is again asking for dismissal with prejudice of a civil case brought against the municipality and Johnstown Planning Commission regarding courtesy-of-the-floor policies during public meetings. John DeBartola, a city resident, originally filed the case in March 2023, arguing that he was cut short and not given the legally allowed amount of time to speak by the planning commission. At least five dozen steps have been taken in the legal process, including oral arguments and other requests for dismissal, according to information at the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas database. Most recently, Lavery Law, on behalf of the city, filed its request for dismissal as part of a written legal response with Cambria County Senior Judge Patrick Kiniry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendants argue in the document that any action was a reasonable restriction motivated by the plaintiffs comments being no longer germane or properly addressed to the Commission. On Feb. 26, 2023, DeBartola was speaking at a special planning commission meeting held for the purpose of considering rezoning a property in the citys Roxbury neighborhood. Curt Davis, then the commissions chairman, stopped DeBartola after about two minutes, contending that he was no longer talking about the subject of the special meeting. Rules were that a speaker could get five minutes to talk about an agenda item, three on a non-agenda matter. It is the citys opinion that no violation of the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, which is in place to promote transparency and accountability in government, occurred. Laverys response included a position that limiting comments is not violative as long as an individual is afforded a reasonable opportunity to comment on matters of concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeBartola originally sought an apology, an opportunity to give his remarks at a new public meeting, changes to policies for speakers and compensation for his court filing fees. Following stalled negotiations, he is now asking for $1 million apiece from every person who has served on Johnstown City Council or the planning commission since the incident occurred, an amount he described as purposely ridiculous in an attempt to bring attention to the matter. At this point, Im no longer interested in an apology that ship has sailed, I want the Court to find that the City has acted in bad faith, and that the members of the City Council and the Planning Commission be sanctioned with punitive damages, DeBartola texted. Johnstowns legal bill for the case has already exceeded $32,000. The city paid a $10,000 deductible with the rest being covered by insurance, according to City Solicitor Dave Andrews. Instead of using tax money to hire more police officers to combat the citys out of control crime, as well as the growing homeless problem (that Council ignores), the City would rather spend $32,000-plus of tax dollars for a Harrisburg law firm to stifle my free speech! DeBartola wrote. The City does not have a bottomless pit to spend City tax dollars. Laverys paperwork was filed with the court Dec. 13. DeBartola plans to respond this week. A viral image claims that 18 prominent U.S. politicians received kickback payments from the Ukrainian government. The information was supposedly released by Ukrainian officials and indicates that the politicians received anywhere from $17 million to $92 million in exchange for backing continued U.S. support for Ukraine. The claim is false: The information in the post was not released by Ukrainian officials, and there is no evidence that U.S. politicians have received kickback payments from Ukraine. The earliest version of the post identified by The Dispatch Fact Check first appeared on a Thai-language website on October 3, 2023. By early November 2023, the image began spreading more widely on popular social media sites including X. The original post links to a Russian video site featuring an episode of Redacted, an online news channel run by former Fox & Friends co-host Clayton Morris that regularly spreads anti-Ukraine conspiracy theories. While the video by Redacted does discuss U.S. financial support for Ukraine, it does not include the kickback payment information included in the image. A search of news articles from the period also shows no reports of payment information released by Ukrainian officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its absolutely nonsensical, Ian Garner, an assistant professor at the Pilecki Institutea Polish governmental research institutionand expert in Russian propaganda, told The Dispatch Fact Check when asked whether the information was accurate. Theres no credible sources whatsoever, anywhere, in any contexts that show that Ukraine is making these sorts of payments. The images proliferation tracks closely with how Russian propaganda often spreads online. According to Garner, these kinds of images, even when they are evidently false to most observers, create an impression among ordinary people that other ordinary people hold a particular view. They create the impression that there are shared values, a shared disbelief in something. And that is very powerful when youre just trying to disrupt a community, to create divisions within another country, as is happening as Russia spreads material into America. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. has appropriated about $175 billion to aid the war effort through five congressional acts, including appproximately $61.4 billion in military assistance. If you have a claim you would like to see us fact check, please send us an email at factcheck@thedispatch.com. If you would like to suggest a correction to this piece or any other Dispatch article, please email corrections@thedispatch.com. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Nevada and the Clark County Election Department reached an agreement after a compliance review found several polling sites with physical barriers during the Nevada primary election. The agreement stems from the U.S.s investigation into Clark Countys compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by a state or local government in any of its programs or services. The agreement is set to last through the 2026 and 2028 election cycles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 11 during the Nevada primary election, a compliance review of eight Clark County polling sites was conducted by physical surveys. During the surveys, the U.S. found several physical barriers including missing van-accessible parking and signage, steep ramps and abrupt level changes at walkways and entrance doors. The county made temporary adjustments to fix the issues ahead of the 2024 general election. Under the agreement, the county will get technical assistance from an accessibility expert and use an evaluation form for each current and prospective polling place based on ADA architectural standards. The Clark County Election Department will also survey polling locations for accessibility throughout the term of the agreement and when selecting future polling sites, the county will ensure that new locations are ADA-accessible. The United States Attorneys Office will monitor the agreement and provide technical assistance. Clark County will also train poll workers on the Countys obligations under the ADA. Voluntary-Compliance-Agreement-Between-the-U.S.A.-and-Clark-County-NV-DJ-NO.-204-46-181Download Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voting is a fundamental right and the ADA guarantees that every person with a disability has an equal opportunity to exercise that right and cast their ballot in person and independently, Sue Fahami, First Assistant United States Attorney, District of Nevada, said. We commend Clark County for its willingness to work collaboratively with the United States Attorneys Office to achieve this goal. The investigation was part of the Department of Justices ADA Voting Initiative, which focuses on protecting the voting rights of individuals with disabilities across the country. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. AUSTIN (KXAN) The San Antonio Police Department said a CLEAR Alert issued over weekend for a 50-year-old woman was discontinued Tuesday. The woman was reportedly last seen in San Antonio, and police said that alert was discontinued as of 6:30 p.m. No other details were released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Hu Minxiong (R) poses for a photo with his understudy Gomolemo Montsho at Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital in Francistown, Botswana's second-largest city, on Oct. 24, 2024. (Photo by Shingirai Madondo/Xinhua) GABORONE, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Kelesetse Bosha from Semotswane village, located 30 km southwest of Francistown, Botswana's second-largest city, will never forget how the 17th Chinese Medical Team members saved her life. For many years, Bosha, 62, endured periodic, excruciating abdominal pain but initially dismissed it as insignificant. In June this year, after visiting her local clinic, she was referred to Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital in Francistown, where she was diagnosed with kidney stones. "The kidney stones caused the unbearable pain I have suffered for years," Bosha told Xinhua at her bedside, following a successful laparoscopic surgery at the hospital. A mother of two, Bosha was initially distressed upon being recommended for surgery, as she had long feared open-wound operations and the associated pain after the procedure. Fortunately, Bosha's diagnosis coincided with the arrival of the 17th Chinese Medical Team, which included Hu Minxiong, a urologist specializing in treating kidney stone-related abdominal pain. With expertise in laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure requiring only small incisions, Hu quickly began assisting patients needing this technique. "I will never forget how the members of the 17th Chinese Medical Team relieved me from years of agony," said a smiling Bosha, now the fifth beneficiary of the less invasive surgical procedure. Her laparoscopic surgery, performed in October, lasted just 90 minutes, much shorter than a conventional open-wound operation. As a peasant farmer, the abdominal pain had prevented Bosha from tending to her crops. "Now I can farm without hesitation," she said. "The Chinese doctors have given me a new lease on life. The pain disappeared just hours after the operation." Despite Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital's limited experience with laparoscopic surgeries, the Chinese doctors collaborated effectively with their local counterparts to perform Bosha's surgery in under two hours, earning recognition from their Botswanan colleagues. "The procedure is minimally invasive, resulting in less bleeding and quicker recovery," Hu explained, noting that many locals are now opting for this operation. Irvin Kgetse, superintendent of Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital, said the arrival of the Chinese medical team is a blessing. "Dozens of patients with kidney-related ailments who would have been sent to India for treatment can now be treated locally," he said, adding that it would save the government significant amounts of money. Since 1981, China has dispatched 17 medical teams comprising 557 medical personnel to Botswana, providing clinical services to more than 2 million patients in the past 43 years. Gomolemo Montsho, a medical officer and Hu's understudy, praised the Chinese medical personnel's contributions. "I am learning a great deal from Dr. Hu, knowledge that I will apply to treat patients in the future," said Montsho. CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Police in Pennsylvania are searching for two men who allegedly robbed a motel in Cumberland County during which time one of the suspects grabbed himself a complimentary coffee from the lobby breakfast bar. Dubbed the coffee break bandits by the Middlesex Township police, the suspects were filmed holding up an employee at the Motel 6 in Carlisle on Dec. 21, 2024. Two masked suspects entered the lobby area where one of the suspects demanded money from desk clerk while the other suspect helps himself to some free coffee, police wrote. Video shared by the Middlesex Township Police Department shows the suspects robbing a Motel 6 on Dec. 21, 2024. (Middlesex Township Police Department) Video from inside the Motel 6 lobby shows one suspect at the motels front desk while the other pours himself a cup of joe. At times, the coffee-drinking suspect appears to be struggling to sip his beverage through his ski mask. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects left the scene in a vehicle driven by a third person, police said. PA jail confiscated inmates toilet paper and soap, cut power and heat, lawsuit alleges Officials are now asking the public for help identifying any of the suspects, urging anyone with information to contact the Middlesex Township Police Department. Police also released footage of the suspects arriving in a vehicle in the motels parking area. Police did not say how much money, if any, the duo made off with. The investigation is ongoing, police wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. There are roughly 1,140 missing persons cases in Indiana, according to the Missing Person Bulletin run by the Indiana State Police. About 280 of these cases are under the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. IndyStar looked into some of those cases the 1990s and early 2000s to see where they stand. As of September, more than 185 people reported missing in Indiana a decade or more ago remain on the state's bulletin. Lola Katherine Fry goes missing while moving to Fort Wayne An old photo of Kathy Fry (second from the right) standing next to her sisters, laying on top of the most recent photo Darlene Pitts has of Fry's sisters now. Kathy Fry went missing at 28-years-old on November 14, 1993. Lola Katherine "Kathy" Fry, 28, had just quit her job as a dancer at Brad's Gold Club. She was planning to move to Fort Wayne to live with her sister, Laverne Barker. She wanted to go back to school. Darlene Pitts, another of Fry's four sisters, said Fry also really wanted to start a family. She remembers Fry talking about wanting a "fat baby girl." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move never happened. While taking belongings back and forth from Indy to Fort Wayne, Fry went to a party at her hair stylist's apartment in east Indianapolis on Nov. 13, 1993. She was there with her ex-boyfriend, John Ryker, and several others. According to a search warrant affidavit, while at the apartment they consumed alcohol, cocaine, marijuana and prescription medication. Lola Katherine Fry has been missing since 1993. Ryker told police he and Fry went back to his home in Greenwood around 5 a.m. the next morning. He said he had to leave for a work call around 7:30 a.m. and that Fry told him she would get ready and leave for Fort Wayne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryker said he returned about an hour later and both Fry and her car, a red and black 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse with personalized license plates "LOLA" were gone. Fry also disappeared just before she was slated to give her final deposition in a class-action lawsuit against a plastic surgeon and the owner of Brad's Gold Club. The last search for Fry was in Hope, Indiana. Pitts visited the former home of Jeff Shaefer, the brother of Fry's hairdresser, Dennis Shaefer. The new owners let Pitts look around and pointed out that there was a cellar in the kitchen. Pitts said the cellar was hand-dug with wooden steps and nothing but dirt inside. With the owner's permission, they started digging in the yard to see if there was anything underneath. At a certain point, they had to stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He dug and he dug and he dug," Pitts said. "It was hard to know when to stop." Fry's case is listed under the Indiana State Police's cold cases and remains an active investigation, said John Perrine, Indiana State Police spokesperson. More than 30 years after Fry's disappearance, Pitts said it's not about justice. She just wants to find her sister. Anyone with information on Fry's disappearance is urged to call the Indiana State Police Indianapolis District at 317-899-8577 or CrimeStoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477 (TIPS). The missing: Decades later, what happened to these Indiana cases? This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Cold case: Lola Fry vanishes while moving to Fort Wayne, Indiana This article was originally published in States Newsroom. For 21-year-old Rebeca Damico, ChatGPTs public release in 2022 during her sophomore year of college at the University of Utah felt like navigating a minefield. The public relations student, now readying to graduate in the spring, said her professors immediately added policies to their syllabuses banning use of the chatbot, calling the generative artificial intelligence tool a form of plagiarism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For me, as someone who follows the rules, I was very scared, Damico said. I was like, oh, I cant, you know, even think about using it, because theyll know. Salt Lake City-based Damico studied journalism before switching her major to public relations, and saw ChatGPT and tools like it as a real threat to the writing industry. She also felt very aware of the temptation she and her classmates now had suddenly a term paper that might take you all night to write could be done in a few minutes with the help of AI. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter I know people that started using it and would use it to write their entire essays. I know people that got caught. I know people that didnt, Damico said. Especially in these last couple weeks of the semester, its so easy to be like, Oh, put it into ChatGPT, but then were like, if we do it once, its kind of like, this slippery slope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But students say theyre getting mixed messages the stern warning from professors against use of AI and the growing pressure from the job market to learn how to master it. The technological developments of generative AI over the last few years have cracked open a new industry, and a wealth of job opportunities. In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom recently announced the first statewide partnership with a tech firm to bring AI curriculum, resources and opportunities to the states public colleges. And even for those students not going into an IT role, its likely they will be asked to use AI in some way in their industries. Recent research from the World Economic Forums 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report found that 75% of people in the workforce are using AI at work, and that some hiring managers are equally prioritizing AI skills with real-world job experience. Higher eds view of AI Over the last few years, the University of Utah, like most academic institutions, has had to take a position on AI. As Damico experienced, the university added AI guidelines to its student handbook that take a fairly hard stance against the tools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It urges professors to add additional AI detection tools in addition to education platform Canvas Turnitin feature, which scans assignments for plagiarism. The guidelines also now define the use of AI tools without citation, documentation or authorization as forms of cheating. Though Damico said some professors continue to hold a hard line against AI, some have started to embrace it. The case-by-case basis Damico describes from her professors is in line with how many academic institutions are handling the technology. Some universities spell out college-wide rules, while others leave it up to professors themselves to set AI standards in their classrooms. Others, like Stanford Universitys policy, acknowledge that students are likely to interact with it. Stanford bans AI from being used to substantially complete an assignment or exam, and says students must disclose its use, but says absent a clear statement from a course instructor, use of or consultation with generative AI shall be treated analogously to assistance from another person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia Byrne is an associate professor of higher education and student affairs at Morgan State University in Baltimore, and she studies technology in the lives of learners and educators, with a focus on how it impacts college students. She said the university allows professors to figure out what works best for them when it comes to AI. She herself often assigns projects that prompt students to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of popular AI tools. Shes also a researcher with the TRAILS Institute, an multi-institution organization aiming to understand what trust in AI looks like, and how to create ethical, sustainable AI solutions. Along with Morgan State, researchers from University of Maryland, George Washington University and Cornell University conduct a variety of research, such as how ChatGPT can be used in health decision making, how to create watermark technology for AI or how other countries are shaping AI policy. Its cool to be in a space with people doing research thats related, but so different, Byrne said. Because it expands your thinking, and it allows us to bring graduate students and undergraduate students into this community where everyone is focused on trustworthiness and AI, but from so many different lenses. Byrne hopes that her students can see the potential that AI has to make their lives and work more easy, but she worries that it creates an artificial expectation for how young people need to perform online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It might lead some folks, younger folks, who are just starting their careers, to feel like they need to use (social media tool) Canva to look totally perfect on LinkedIn, and use all these tools to optimize their time and their calendars, Byrne said. And I just worry that its creating a false expectation of speed and efficiency that the tools currently cant accomplish. Theresa Fesinstine is the founder of peoplepower.ai, which trains HR professionals on ways AI can be used efficiently within their organization. This semester, she instructed her first college course at the City University of New York on AI and business, and taught students of all years and backgrounds. Fesinstine said she was surprised how many of her students knew little to nothing about AI, but heard that many other instructors warned theyd fail students who were found to have used it in assignments. She thinks this mixed messaging often comes from not understanding the technology, and its abilities to help with an outline, or to find research resources. Its a little scary, and I think thats where, right now, most of the trepidation is centered around, she said. Its that most people, in my opinion, havent been trained or understand how to use AI most effectively, meaning they use it in the same way that you would use Google. Real-world applications Shriya Boppana, a 25-year-old MBA student at Duke University, not only uses AI in her day-to-day life for schoolwork, but shes also pursuing a career in generative AI development and acquisitions. She wasnt initially interested in AI, she said, but she worked on a project with Google and realized how the technology was set to influence everyday life, and how malleable it still is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once you kind of realize how much that the tech actually isnt as fleshed out as you think it is, I was a little more interested in trying to understand what the path is to get it where it needs to go, Boppana said. She said she uses some form of AI tool every day, from planning her own schedule, to having a chatbot help decide how students in a group project should divide and complete work, based on their availability. Because she works with it regularly, she understands the strengths and limitations of AI, saying it helps her get mundane tasks done, process data or outline an assignment. But she said the personalized tone she aims to have in her writing just isnt there yet with the publicly available AI tools, so she doesnt completely rely on it for papers or correspondence. Parris Haynes, a 22-year-old junior studying philosophy at Morgan State, said the structure and high demand of some students coursework almost encourages or incentivizes them to use AI to help get it all done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He sees himself either going into law, or academia and said hes a little nervous about how AI is changing those industries. Though he leans on AI to help organize thoughts or assignments for classes like chemistry, Haynes said he wouldnt go near it when it comes to his work or career-related objectives for his philosophy classes. I dont really see much of a space for AI to relieve me of the burden of any academic assignments or potential career tasks in regards to philosophy, Haynes said. Even if it could write a convincing human-seeming paper, a philosophical paper, its robbing me of the joy of doing it. Gen Zs outlook on their future with AI Like Haynes, Fesinstine knows that some of her students are interested, but a little scared about the power AI may have over their futures. Although theres a lot of research about how older generations jobs are impacted by AI, those just about to break into the workforce may be the most affected, because theyve grown up with these technologies. I would say the attitude is I use this term a lot, cautiously curious, Fesinstine said. You know, theres definitely a vibe around ethics and protection that I dont know that I would see in other generations, perhaps But theres also an acknowledgement that this is something that a lot of companies are going to need and are going to want to use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, two years since ChatGPTs release, Damico has started to realize the ways generative AI is useful in the workplace. She began working with PR firm Kronus Communications earlier this year, and was encouraged to explore some time-saving or brainstorming functions of generative AI. Shes become a fan of having ChatGPT explain new business concepts to her, or to get it to suggest Instagram captions. She also likes to use it for more refined answers than Google might provide, such as if shes searching for publications to pitch a client to. Though shes still cautious, and wont use generative AI to write actual assignments for her, Damico said she realizes she needs the knowledge and experience after graduation it gives you kind of this edge. Boppana, who sees her career growing in the AI space, feels incredibly optimistic about the role AI will play in her future. She knows shes more knowledgeable and prepared to go into an AI-centered workforce than most, but she feels like the opportunities for growth in healthcare, telecommunications, computing and more are worth wading into uncertain waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its like a beautiful opportunity for people to learn how machines just interact with the human world, and how we can, I dont know, make, like, prosthetic limbs, like test artificial hearts find hearing aids, Boppana said. Theres so much beauty in the way that AI helps human beings. I think you just have to find your space within it. This story was originally published on States Newsroom. BOGOTA (Reuters) - Colombia's armed forces seized 626 metric tons of cocaine chloral hydrate during 2024, the armed forces general command said in a statement on Tuesday, up 35% year-on-year. Cocaine production and trafficking, along with illegal gold production, are considered the main drivers of a six-decade armed conflict that has killed more than 450,000 people. The number of clashes with illegal armed groups like leftist guerrillas was up 52% this year to 447, the statement added. (Reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb) The Colorado teenager who lost her right leg after she was bitten by a shark while on a diving trip in Belize says she's "lucky" to be alive following a painstaking recovery and she's still determined to return to the ocean. Annabelle Carlson, 15, was attacked by two sharks Aug. 6 while on a family diving trip off the coast of Belize, resulting in damage to her hands and the loss of her leg. What followed was four months of recovery, seven surgeries, a bacterial infection and being outfitted with a prosthetic leg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Carlson is only grateful for her journey. Id say four months ago being in the hospital, I didnt know where I was going to be now. But Im definitely proud of where I am. And Im so happy with how my life is going and how Im alive right now, she told NBCs Morgan Chesky. Your really start to realize how lucky you are when you go through something like this, she added. Annabelle Carlson in the hospital. The attack The attack unfolded as Carlson and her family all avid divers were at the Lighthouse Reef atoll in the Caribbean Sea. An experienced diver with about 20 dives under her belt over the last three years, Carlson said she was used to seeing sharks underwater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After about 40 minutes of diving, on the way back to the surface she noticed the sharks followed her dive group up a bit, which was unusual. After the dive, she and her siblings wanted to jump off the boat for a swim in the water. She went first. The second I hit the water a shark almost like it came from under the boat. I was facing the boat at this point. It started attacking my hands, she recalled. Its biting my hands. And its kind of weird so I kind of just start hitting it to try and hit it off me, she said. Her mother, Kellie Carlson, immediately noticed I was right there because I was getting my phone to take a picture of them jumping off. The minute she hit the water, the shark attacked her and I'm screaming yelling, Somebody help. Help her! her mother said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people in the dive group threw a life ring but at that point her hands were pretty messed up, Kellie said. As theyre pulling me in theres a second shark that does bite my right leg, Annabelle recalled. The teen said the ordeal felt like it stretched a really long time, but in reality lasted about 30 seconds. Its almost a feeling of being helpless, she explained. It was hard. It was scary. It was completely painless. It felt like a tugging feeling, which was weird. It felt like I was playing tug of war a little bit My adrenaline was so much to the point where, like, I didnt even feel the second shark attack my leg, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People on the boat started throwing scuba tanks in the water to distract the sharks. Finally, she was pulled onto the boat. As soon as they pulled her up, I knew right then and there I was going to have to do everything I could to save her life. Because basically her leg was missing from her knee to her ankle, Kellie Carlson said. All the soft tissue from her knee to her ankle was gone, and it was just her tibia and fibula. Good Samaritans on the boat, whom the family described as guardian angels, tied a shirt around Carlson's leg as a tourniquet to stop the bleeding and they braced for the hourlong boat ride to a coast guard outpost for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She recalled screaming because of the tourniquet pain. It really hurt. Kellie Carlson said her motherly instinct kicked in to do everything she could to save her daughter's life. When the shark attack happened, I was just in shock. And the first 24 hours, I was in survival mode and trying to save her and making sure that everything was set up so that she was going to live, she said. Once the boat arrived at the coast guard post, the helicopter they were hoping for wasn't there. It eventually arrived, but two agonizing hours went by from the time of the bite to arriving at the hospital in Belize City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wasnt sure she was going to make it cause she was sheet white, Kellie said. Seven surgeries and fighting a bacterial infection Annabelle underwent an initial surgery that amputated her leg. When I woke up from surgery My mom had to tell me that I didnt have my leg anymore On the boat, like I had this feeling of like I didnt know if ... I was going to be there or not, Annabelle said. About three and half weeks after leaving Belize, the family went to Miami where Annabelle had an additional surgery to revise her amputation so it would be better suited for a prosthetic, and additional surgery on her hands to repair some nerves and tendon damage. I think this situation just really goes to show that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Because I do have my prosthetic now. Id say Im thriving, right? Annabelle Carlson said. In total, shes undergone seven surgeries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After retuning to Colorado from Miami, Annabelle developed an abscess on her leg that ended up being an infection from a slow-growing microbacteria that shes now fighting. Shes fighting it and were hopeful. All signs are pointing to good things, her mother said. Weve learned that shark attacks are rare, and bacterial infections are even more rare. Im really proud of her for where shes at right now. Despite all she's endured, the teen says she wakes up every day with a positive spirit. But I wake up every day feeling grateful, just because, I mean, Im here, and Im able to walk again, Im so lucky to be able to do so, Annabelle said. I think this situation just really goes to show that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Because I do have my prosthetic now. Id say Im thriving, right? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The young athlete says her injury won't hold her back as she's determined to continue playing sports. Im planning (on) playing lacrosse and using my prosthetic to ski, hopefully, she said. Annabelle Carlson says her injury won't hold her back as she's determined to continue playing sports. And the attack has left no fear of the ocean's depths. Hopefully (I'm) getting back into the ocean as soon as possible, too, Annabelle said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Ringing in the new year for some families means happiness and new beginnings, but 123 families in Columbus will go into the new year with a missing piece. Thats because the Columbus Division of Police said there have been 123 homicides in the city in 2024 and of those, 93 about 75 percent have been solved. The detectives take a lot of pride in closing out these cases, Columbus Police Commander Shaun Dillon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dillon said the 123 lives lost in Columbus in 2024 are still too many, but detectives are working around the clock to bring justice to victims families. If you look at 2023 and 2024 solve rates, theyve increased since 2020 to show thats worked and now were just trying to continue to maintain that high solve rate and then get better, Dillon said. He said theyve also closed 30 previously unsolved cases from 2023, adding that the 75 percent solve rate is pretty consistent with last year, but it is much higher than rates from 2020-2022. Just because we go into 2025, we wont stop working the cases from 2024, Dillon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Clayborns brother Andre was killed in 2020. He said having his brothers case solved impacted their grief process. So for us, you know, it definitely, you know, began that journey of us knowing, okay, we do know who did it, Clayborn said. So now we can go through the natural progression of going to court and having a trial. Clayborn said his family did go on that healing journey. He started the Son Son Foundation in his brothers honor to help incarcerated people turn their lives around. Clayborn said the person who pulled the trigger on his brother was acquitted via self-defense, but Clayborn said being there is all a part of the journey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im actually a living testimony that we have to begin to give ourselves closure because the individual took something away from us, could never give us the closure that we truly need, and so Im learning more and more, you know, of forgiving, that giving that closure to self, to know that everything moving forward is going to get better, Clayborn said. Dillon said things that have helped police solve cases this year are technology like cameras and the Real Time Crime Center. A few years ago, CPD also made internal changes to send teams of detectives to investigate and focus on certain areas rather than rushing around the city, which Dillon said has made a difference. He said the other big factor is the community. Relationships weve built with the community, more people are willing to call in tips, be good witnesses, speak to us, tell us what they saw, call anonymously, Dillon said. Well never stop working on those cases, but the cases that we do solve, it does help to be able to go to the family and tell them; that brings some closure and justice to that case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are still 30 unsolved homicide cases this year. Dillon said officers will continue investigating those cases, but anyone in the community with information is asked to reach out to Columbus police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter, has died at the age of 100. His death comes after a February 2023 announcement that he was entering hospice care and spending his remaining time at home with family. Over a thousand people gathered in the ballroom of the Dayton Convention and Exhibition Center 43 years ago, when former president Jimmy Carter held a question-and-answer session for Miami Valley community members. Harlan Louis, then 13 and now of Columbus, was in attendance. Louis grew up around politics as his father was the former mayor of Trotwood, a suburb of Dayton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former NBC4 journalist looks back on her time working with President Jimmy Carter I was interested in politics at that age, and I was following the campaign, Louis said. And it was pretty exciting that a president was going to be in our town. Louis, who currently works as an attorney in Columbus, said he fondly remembers meeting the president. The town hall meeting was an hour and a half long, leaving limited time for questions. But when the time came for questions, Louis said he was ready. As a teenage boy I went over the top, lost my mind, waving my arms, jumping up and down which was totally out of character for me but I was surprised they wanted me out from the podium and they said go to walk over to one of the microphones and I had been one of the people selected, Louis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Louis, he figured at that point in the campaign, Carter had been asked just about everything. Thats why he wanted to pose a unique question. I said to him, you know, If you cant win, would you rather Ronald Regan or John Anderson be the winner, Louis said. And he kind of laughed, crowd kind of laughed and then he told me if he couldnt win, he would want his vice president to win. Harlan Louis, then 13, asks former President Jimmy Carter a question during a 1980 campaign stop in Dayton, Ohio. (Courtesy/Beverly Louis) To his surprise, Carter continued to engage with Louis. Louis said Carter was so impressed with his question that he asked the young boy at the time if he wanted to get into journalism when he grew up. I told him no, Louis said. I said, I want to be a lawyer. And he said to me he thought that was good and he didnt want to be on the other side of a case that I might have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louis said at the time when he told Carter he wanted to be a lawyer he didnt know hed make that dream a reality. Flags ordered to be flown at half-staff in Ohio Louis also said Carter has been a transformative former president who is leaving behind a lasting legacy. In a lot of ways, his post-presidency is a good model of what a post-presidency can be and the impact a president can have after leaving office, Louis said. Carter was the longest-living American president. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children gathered for what the group called Release the Grief on Monday night, leaving their pain behind in 2024 and moving to 2025 with a new outlook. To start the new year with a clean slate, participants wrote down everything they wanted to leave behind on plates and then smashed them to pieces. So writing down your grief, your feelings, whatever you feel inside on a plate, but shes taking it one step further and that is were going to release it and release it meaning that were going to break those plates, said Rhonda Clayborn, a member of MOMCC who lost her son to gun violence in October 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus homicide solve rate consistant with 2023, better than years prior to that If Im just being honest, you know, when he was first killed, you hold a lot in, you try to be strong for people, but throwing a lamp into the wall? Ive done that so I know it feels good, said MOMCC member Audrea Hickman, whose son was killed in April 2020. Each participant got two plates and they wrote the same things on each, sharing what exactly they wanted to let go of before the new year. That included grief, pain and guilt from losing their children, but people also wrote about procrastination and negativity. Then they all broke one of their plates and kept the other as a reminder. So, to be able to do it and not have regret about it, like youre able to do this freely and to say Im just throwing it away, I cant wait, Hickman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release of their grief happened on a Downtown Columbus street. After everyones plate was smashed, they picked up the pieces and threw them away for good. Release some of that grief, release some of that hurt, release some of those thoughts that you think during the holiday season and its a part of learning to live again, Clayborn said. OSU Wexner, Anthem reach insurance deal Columbus has had 123 murders in 2024, but MOMCC is hopeful the city will see a decrease in that number in 2025. We believe in what weve been speaking for this past year and we see that it worked, Hickman said. Did we get the outcome that we wanted? No, we didnt, but we know that what we were doing made a difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the group didnt accomplish its goal of under 100 homicides this year, group leaders said 2024 was just the beginning. The goal, under triple digits, will remain the same for 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Last year, it was Mickey Mouse. This year, Popeye the Sailor joins Mickey as a new entrant to the public domain that is, shedding his core copyright protections on Jan. 1. He's merely the most familiar cultural artifact to enter the public domain on Wednesday. But as Jennifer Jenkins, co-director of Duke University's Center for the Study of the Public Domain notes in her indispensable annual roster of newly public works (posted this year with co-director James Boyle), Popeye's initial appearance in print is among thousands of culturally and artistically significant works to become copyright-free. That means they become available for anyone to copy, share and expand upon without paying their creators for rights. This year's treasure trove includes literary works originally published in 1929, meaning their 95-year copyrights expire on New Year's Day. They include William Faulkner's novel "The Sound and the Fury," in which he began to perfect his literary style and his gloss on racial and social stratification in his native Mississippi; Ernest Hemingway's "A Farewell to Arms"; and Virginia Woolf's essay "A Room of One's Own." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community theaters can screen the films. Youth orchestras can perform the music publicly, without paying licensing fees. Online repositories ... can make works fully available online. This helps enable both access to and preservation of cultural materials that might otherwise be lost to history. Jennifer Jenkins, Duke University, on the value of the public domain There are also Dashiell Hammett's "The Maltese Falcon," originally published as a serial in Black Mask magazine, and John Steinbeck's first novel, "Cup of Gold." Among films, the haul includes the Marx Brothers' first movie, "The Cocoanuts," which was based on a George S. Kaufman Broadway musical and betrays its stagebound genesis in almost every scene; Alfred Hitchcock's first sound film, "Blackmail," and an early film adaptation of Edna Ferber's "Show Boat" a 1929 version of Ferber's novel, not the musical version, which was filmed in 1936 and, more familiarly, in 1951. Interpretations of copyright law haven't been as divergent as they've become over the last year or two. The reason is artificial intelligence, or at least the development of AI bots "trained" on copyrighted written, musical and artistic works. Numerous lawsuits brought by creators are making their way through the federal courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI developers generally claim that their feeding copyrighted works into their bots' databases falls within the "fair use" exception to copyright protection. The fair use doctrine, as the U.S. Copyright Office puts is, allows the use of "limited portions of a work including quotes, for purposes such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, and scholarly reports." Whether a particular use qualifies "is notoriously fact-specific," Jenkins told me. "So it's hard to shoot a straight arrow through all the cases," in part because the judgment of whether a use is exempt from copyright depends on whether creators can show that the use caused harm to the market for their works. "It's a wild patchwork of cases," Jenkins says, "but the central issue to all is the same, namely is it fair use to train your AI model on copyrighted content, but the specifics vary. Often I have something resembling a prediction of how fair use cases are going to come out, but really cannot predict which way these cases are going to go. It's a moving target in copyright land." Read more: Column: AI investors say they'll go broke if they have to pay for copyrighted works. Don't believe it Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isn't the first time that technological change has roiled the copyright landscape. One precedent is the Google Books case, in which authors and publishers sued Google to block its effort to create a searchable database of written works by digitizing copyrighted works along with works in the public domain. The ultimate settlement allows Google to digitize books for the database, but to display only limited "snippets" of copyright-protected works to users enough to enable users to search for specific words or phrases, but not to access significant portions of the works. Also entering the public domain this week, as Jenkins observes, are about a dozen Mickey Mouse films, including one in which he speaks his first words ("Hot dogs! Hot dogs!") and wears his iconic white gloves. That depiction of Mickey is now copyright-free; the ur-Mickey depicted in the Walt Disney short "Steamboat Willie" entered the public domain on Jan. 1, 2024, but later depictions such as the white gloves were still subject to copyright restrictions based on when they first appeared on film. Popeye first appeared as a peripheral character in January 1929 in E.C. Segar's "Thimble Theatre" comic strip. He garnered such instant popularity that Segar eventually refashioned the strip around him. Some story elements, such as the role of spinach as a source of his superhuman strength, became part of his persona over subsequent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Popeye also gives us a window into how a character's entry into the public domain doesn't require subsequent exploitations to adhere to his or her original conception. Los Angeles copyright attorney Aaron Moss observes in his own curtain-raising post about public domain day 2025 that several Popeye-inspired horror films, "including 'Popeye the Slayer Man,' set in an abandoned spinach cannery, and 'Shiver Me Timbers,' featuring a meteor that 'transforms Popeye into an unstoppable killing machine,'" have already been announced. Read more: Column: Mickey Mouse and 'Lady Chatterley's Lover' enter the public domain on Jan. 1, a reminder of our crazy copyright laws Similarly, er, disrespectful treatments of Mickey Mouse and Winnie-the-Pooh (a member of the public domain class of 2022) have been produced or announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The copyright rules for music are particularly convoluted. "Fats" Waller songs including "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "(What Did I Do to Be So) Black and Blue" are entering the public domain, which should help to augment Waller's reputation as a jazz and Broadway innovator. So too are George Gershwin's "An American in Paris" and the popular standards "Tiptoe Through the Tulips" (lyrics by Alfred Dubin, music by Joseph Burke), "Happy Days Are Here Again" (lyrics by Jack Yellen, music by Milton Ager) and "What Is This Thing Called Love?" by Cole Porter. But as Jenkins notes, only the compositions what appears on the sheet music and not any particular recordings are entering the public domain. So the version of "Tiptoe" recorded by Tiny Tim, which made that artist a popular star in 1968, is still under copyright. "Singin' in the Rain," which most people associate with the 1952 film musical of that name, is entering the public domain. Fans of the Gene Kelly/Debbie Reynolds film may be unaware that it was conceived by Arthur Freed, then the head of MGM's musical feature unit, as a vehicle to exploit the back catalog of songs he and composer Nacio Herb Brown had written in the 1920s and 1930s; of the 16 full-length and excerpted songs in the movie, all but two were original products of their collaboration or had words by Freed or music by Brown. "Moses Supposes" was written by others for the movie and "Make 'Em Laugh," by Freed and Brown, was acknowledged by Stanley Donen, who co-directed the firm with Kelly, to be a transparent rip-off of Cole Porter's "Be a Clown." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (My favorite backstage nugget about the movie's production involves the physical torment that Reynolds, not a trained dancer, suffered at the hands of the perfectionist Kelly, which left her with bloodied feet after filming the "Good Morning" number. A close scrutiny of the scene reveals Reynolds continually glancing at the ground to make sure she was hitting her marks as she tried to keep in step with Kelly and co-star Donald O'Connor; anyway, no one can claim it doesn't work perfectly.) Read more: Column: These historic works are coming free from copyright. Why did it take so long? Sound recordings from 1924 are entering the public domain thanks to the 2018 Music Modernization Act. They include Gershwin's recording of "Rhapsody in Blue" and Al Jolson's recording of "California Here I Come." But regular sound recordings made in 1929 are granted 100-year copyrights, so they won't be available until 2030. Another exception covers music made to accompany movies, which receive the same copyright terms as the films. Accordingly, Jenkins notes, the recorded version of "Singin' in the Rain" heard in the film "The Hollywood Revue of 1929" goes royalty-free on Jan.1, but not the version sung by Kelly in the 1952 movie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The annual flow of copyrighted works into the public domain underscores how the progressive lengthening of copyright protection is counter to the public interestindeed, to the interests of creative artists. The initial U.S. copyright act, passed in 1790, provided for a term of 28 years including a 14-year renewal. In 1909, that was extended to 56 years including a 28-year renewal. In 1976, the term was changed to the creators life plus 50 years. In 1998, Congress passed the Copyright Term Extension Act, which is known as the Sonny Bono Act after its chief promoter on Capitol Hill. That law extended the basic term to life plus 70 years; works for hire (in which a third party owns the rights to a creative work), pseudonymous and anonymous works were protected for 95 years from first publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter. Along the way, Congress extended copyright protection from written works to movies, recordings, performances and ultimately to almost all works, both published and unpublished. Once a work enters the public domain, Jenkins observes, "community theaters can screen the films. Youth orchestras can perform the music publicly, without paying licensing fees. Online repositories such as the Internet Archive, HathiTrust, Google Books and the New York Public Library can make works fully available online. This helps enable both access to and preservation of cultural materials that might otherwise be lost to history." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, as Jenkins and others have documented, overly long copyright terms often keep older works out of the mainstream. "Films have disintegrated because preservationists cant digitize them," Jenkins has written. "The works of historians and journalists are incomplete. Artists find their cultural heritage off-limits." The countervailing benefits are minimal. The artistic lobby specifically corporate owners of copyrighted content maintain that longer terms protect the income streams of content creators, producing an incentive to create. But the truth is that after the first few years of publication the commercial value of the vast majority of copyrighted works declines precipitately to almost nothing. The value that might arise from follow-on creations of public domain works remains locked away and the copyrighted works become forgotten. Get the latest from Michael Hiltzik Commentary on economics and more from a Pulitzer Prize winner. Sign me up. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. DAMASCUS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Officials from Syria's interim administration held talks on Monday with a visiting Ukrainian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, during which they vowed to develop "strategic partnerships" with Ukraine, Syria's SANA state news agency reported. During the meeting, Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani emphasized the administration's intent to develop "strategic partnerships -- politically, economically, and socially" with Ukraine. "We are also seeking to restore scientific collaboration with Ukraine," al-Shaibani said, as quoted by SANA. Syria's new administration "welcomes all Arab and international delegations," he added. Meanwhile, Sybiha wrote on social media platform X that he has met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Syria's de facto leader, in which he voiced Ukraine's solidarity with Syria and its readiness to "assist in restoring normal life, stability, and food security" in the country. Sybiha wrote that he also met with al-Shaibani, and that the two sides "are ready to open a new page in our bilateral relations, restore diplomatic ties based on mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, and develop cooperation in international organizations." The talks came as Syria navigates a sensitive political transition following the downfall of the previous government on Dec. 8. A military coalition led by HTS waged a major military operation from northern Syria on Nov. 27. It swept southwards, captured the capital Damascus, and overthrew former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government within 12 days. Ukrainian air defence units repelled a combined Russian attack on the night of 30-31 December, destroying 6 Russian missiles and 16 drones. A further 24 decoy drones have failed to reach their targets and disappeared from radar. However, ballistic missile strikes still took place. Source: Ukraine's Air Force on social media Details: Russian forces utilised 61 aerial assets on the night of 30-31 December starting at 20:30 on 30 December: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles from Russia's Voronezh Oblast; 1 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missile from a MiG-31K fighter jet from the airspace of Russia's Tula Oblast. 6 Kh-69 air-to-surface missiles and tactical aircraft from the airspace of Russia's Belgorod Oblast; 8 Kh-22 cruise missiles from Tu-22M3 aircraft from the airspace of Russia's Tula Oblast; A total of 40 Shahed-type loitering munitions and decoy drones of other types from the directions of Russia's Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Bryansk and Millerovo. Anti-aircraft missile units, electronic warfare systems and mobile fire groups from Ukraine's defence forces shot down the following aerial targets: 1 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missile; 5 Kh-69 air-to-surface missiles; A total of 16 Shahed-type loitering munitions and 24 decoy drones of various types disappeared from radar (causing no adverse effects) The Russian attack reportedly resulted in ballistic missile strikes in Sumy and Kyiv oblasts. Quote from Ukraine's Air Force: "Despite the New Year festivities, we urge citizens not to ignore air-raid warnings. Take care of yourselves and your families!" Support UP or become our patron! CHICAGO A few weeks back, WGN News first told you about the Hickey family who was in need of a reliable vehicle for their wheelchair-bound son who had just underwent a life-saving heart transplant. Since then, the community has stepped up in a big way, even donating a wheelchair accessible van. For 11-year-old Adin Hickey and his mother Melissa, this van represents freedom. Our hearts feel full; were excited; were so happy and we want to thank everybody, Melissa said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Adins Christmas wish: A wheelchair van to help get him home for the holidays WGN News first met the family a few weeks back when Melissa reached out with Adins wish: to be home in time for Christmas. Adin was recovering at Lurie Childrens Hospital from a life-saving heart transplant. He was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and has been wheelchair-bound since he was 9 years old. Adin needed a reliable wheelchair van for transportation and after our story aired, WGN viewers stepped up and donated to a GoFundMe to help pay for a van and cover costs of maintenance and his care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not all. We saw the story on TV on your newscast and were also sent a link to itm asking if we could help anyway since we are an accessible vehicle provider. As soon as we saw it, we thought this is a great opportunity to help, General Manager of Bettenhausen Automotive Todd Navarrete said. RELATED: Chicagoans fulfill Adins Christmas Wish, help get him home for the holidays Bettenhausen Automotive in Tinley Park donated the used by reliable van with everything the family needs to get around town. Completely free to the family, fully accessible. It comes equipped with a side entry power wheelchair that folds out. Adin will be able to go ahead and be secured to the vehicle and be transported, Navarrete said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melissa said everyday errands are often a tough task, but that all changed Monday as the family got a tour of their van and all its features. Its very hard trying to get [Adin] out of a car, to pick him up out of a car, put him back in the car. I had to get a scooter out the car just to get to the grocery store. I have no room for groceries, Melissa said. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Its a reminder of whats possible when the community comes together. We hope this van giveaway can help Adin with everything he can do. Being a child, hang with his friends, go where he needs to go and do what he wants to do, Navarrete said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for whats next, Melissa said they are going to take things day by day, all while enjoying their new ride. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. In 2024, at least 66 human cases of bird flu have been reported in the United States, each one raising the risk of another pandemic like COVID-19. So far, most cases have been described as mild, which means they weren't hospitalized. No patients have died, though infections years ago had a very high mortality rate. Symptoms have typically included pink eye, but not serious respiratory distress. However, a patient recently made headlines in Louisiana for being a more severe case. The patient, who is reportedly over the age of 65, was hospitalized and in critical condition due to severe respiratory symptoms. Last week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a genetic analysis suggests the virus mutated inside the patient to possibly make it a more severe illness in humans. The agency called the mutation concerning, as it may allow the virus to better bind to receptors in humans' upper airways. This would make it easier to jump from person to person, sparking major outbreaks or even a pandemic. However, the public health agency said that the risk to the general public from the outbreak has not changed and remains low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDC also stated that these mutations have not been detected in the bird flock that infected the patient, which would make the situation more concerning. These changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection (e.g., within a few days of symptom onset) when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts, the CDC said in its report. Notably, in this case, no transmission from the patient in Louisiana to other persons has been identified. Still, every additional human case gives H5N1 more opportunities to adapt. As a study found earlier in December, it will only take one single mutation to make bird flu much worse. Out of the 66 human cases of bird flu that have been reported in 10 states, including some without reported outbreaks, all but two stem from exposure to either cows or poultry. Human-to-human transmission could be occurring undetected, but so far there is no hard evidence of such transmission. In an interview with Intelligencer, Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan noted that these exact viral mutations have been seen in bird flu before, nearly two decades ago. The more concerning aspect of the emerging crisis, she said, was how the number of human cases keeps rising. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Even though this particular virus from this particular case isnt a huge concern in terms of onward transmission, if were having human cases tick up and up and up, were going to give the virus more chances to develop mutations," Rasmussen explained. "And if thats not detected and starts spreading in the human population, thats a very good way to have a pandemic start out of this." Rasmussen also underlined the risk of reassortment the potential for H5N1 to swap genes with human influenza virus, which could supercharge the spread of the pathogen. "Thats essentially like shuffling two decks of cards together, ending up making new viruses that have a combination of segments from both of the viruses that were infecting the person. That can lead to really, really rapid evolutionary jumps and rapid adaptation to a new host," she said. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. Over the weekend, Dr. Leana Wen, the former Baltimore health commissioner, told "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," that the United States should have learned its lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We should be having rapid tests, home tests, available to all farm workers, to their families, for the clinicians taking care of them, so that we aren't waiting for public labs and CDC labs to tell us what's bird flu or not," she said. We have 66 cases of bird flu in humans, and this is almost certainly a significant undercount, because we have not been doing nearly enough testing. She also urged the Biden administration to approve the H5N1 vaccine. There's research done on it, she said. They could get this authorized now, and also get the vaccine out to farm workers and to vulnerable people. As Salon previously reported, public health experts arent optimistic the incoming Trump administration will handle the bird flu situation any better. If the Biden administration is not doing a good job, you can only imagine when you have certain individuals who are much more hostile towards these types of government action, it will get worse, Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease and senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, told Salon. A 68-year-old congresswoman is retiring in part to set a better example for other aging politicians. New Hampshire Representative Annie Kuster told The Boston Globe that she hopes some of her colleagues will be inspired to leave Congress, and that she wishes President Joe Biden had stepped aside earlier. She added that her decision to leave Congress was based on several factors, including President-elect Donald Trumps return to the White House, but also on her hope that it will make room for younger members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im trying to set a better example, she told the newspaper. I think there are colleagues some of whom are still very successful and very productive but others who just stay forever. Im just not the best gladiator for it right now, she said of Trumps return, noting that his comeback, the January 6 Capitol riot, and making room for younger people, all played a role in her decision. Kuster just narrowly escaped as rioters headed to the House chamber during the Capitol riot. Ive said somewhat facetiously, he tried to kill me once, Im not available for that again, she said regarding Trump. What we went through on January 6 and his attempt to overthrow the government took a toll. That was really hard, and not just personally, but on my ability to work across the aisle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her last votes as a member of Congress also pushed her out the door as Elon Musk took down a bipartisan spending deal, almost leading to a government shutdown. She said it was a big part of the reason to leave ... Theres a theme developing when billionaires make decisions about hard-working families lives, it comes out just mean. Its cold-hearted. Representative Annie Kuster (D-NH) speaks as members of Congress share recollections of the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) Kuster revealed her decision in March, long before Trump won the election and before Biden bowed out to make room for Vice President Kamala Harris. She told The Globe that she thought Trump would be able to win after a trip to New Hampshire with Biden when she spent an hour with the president and started to doubt his reelection prospects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just in my heart, [I] reached the conclusion that this would be a very challenging campaign for him, and to put himself out there for another four-year term was going to be a struggle, she told the paper, noting that the 81-year-old president is capable of finishing his term but that his aging was clear and that he spoke very softly, suggesting that Bidens team may have concealed his aging. It was hard for me at that time, like, what can one person do? Kuster asked The Globe. You know, I did talk with people about [it] and talked with the campaign, its just hard to know, looking back on it. Following Bidens June 27 debate with Trump which ultimately led to his departure from the race, Kuster hosted a video call with Biden and the New Democrat Coalition, a group of moderate Democrats of which shes the chair. The meeting grew tense when members challenged Biden on his fitness to continue in office. Kuster said it was painful to prepare her remarks for the call. I havent had these kinds of conversations since I talked to my own parents about, you know, their aging and their limitations, she said. SAYRE, Pa. (WETM) A Connecticut man has been sentenced to serve time in a correctional facility, as well as pay restitution, for his role in the thefts of car parts from a business in Bradford County. Kevin M. Rivera, 32, was sentenced to a minimum of 178 days to a maximum of 23 months in the Bradford County Correctional Facility after he participated in stealing catalytic converters from an auto dealership in Sayre, as reported by the Bradford County District Attorneys Office. Wysox man gets probation for stealing copper wire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges for the crime were filed by the Athens Township Police Department in 2022 following an investigation into the incident. The district attorney states that the other people involved in the crime have already been convicted but since Rivera is an out-of-state resident, it took additional time to arrest him. Rivera will face another sentence in Connecticut after facing his sentence in Pennsylvania and will be under supervision for a lengthy period. The district attorney states that this will be done to allow Rivera to continue to work and repay the restitution amount that he is ordered to pay. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. CONNECTICUT (WTNH) A new year may mean more money on your paycheck if you work a minimum wage job. As of Jan. 1, the rate in Connecticut is increasing from $15.69 per hour to $16.35. Goodys Hardware owner Dave Katz in East Haven is welcoming the change. Everythings going up these days. People have to make a living. Prices are going up. Unfortunately, things are going up a little faster than wages are going up. Were always fair to the employees and we treat them well. But bottom line whether its here or anywhere else, they have to survive, Katz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Connecticut laws take effect Jan. 1: Heres what to know Katz said the 66-cent hike will have minimal impacts on his business. At Zois in New Haven, owner Pete Maniatis said hes always paid above the minimum wage, adding its helped him retain employees. I decided to pay more and I found I was retaining people longer, and I was having to do a lot less training of new people, Maniatis said. The change is required under a state law that Governor Ned Lamont signed in 2019, which requires minimum wage to be adjusted each year based on the U.S. Department of Labors calculation of the employment cost index. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One expert cited several concerns about that law, including how it could result in higher prices for consumers while opening the door for more automation. If youve been to Mcdonalds or a Burger King, not to call out any of those, youll see that youre not greeted by a bunch of people at counters anymore. Youre greeted by a kiosk, said James Moh, who is an associate professor of accounting and taxation at the University of New Haven. According to the law, employers and employees can expect the minimum wage rate to be declared on Oct. 15, each year, with the change becoming effective on Jan. 1 of the approaching year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) With the holiday season coming to an end, doctors are seeing an uptick in viral infections. Dr. Paul Anthony with Hartford Hospital is seeing more cases of RSV and pneumonia, which is common this time of year. Theres been a jump in hospitalizations caused by respiratory viral diseases, like RSV, the flu and COVID-19, according to data from the state health department. Its just what we call socially transmitted diseases, Anthony said. Especially as it gets colder, and more people congregate inside, those viruses also spread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you want to avoid getting sick, Anthony advises people to get the flu and COVID vaccines. Its also critical to wash your hands frequently. As you touch commonly touched services, its also a good way to pick up viruses, and most people touch their faces several times a minute, he said. CDC changes its RSV vaccine recommendations Doctors are also seeing more cases of norovirus. the most common cause of food poisoning. Cases are popping up all over the country and in Connecticut but Anthony said thats also expected. Its a very contagious virus and it kind of sticks to things if its not cleaned properly so thats how it can be transmitted, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that stomach bugs caused by norovirus pass in 12-48 hours for most people, but its important to rehydrate with water. And if youre feeling sick, the best thing to do is stay home to not infect others. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. COPIAH COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) Crystal Springs police arrested a man on multiple charges, including rape and kidnapping. Officers said they were flagged down by a woman around 9:00 p.m. on December 18. The woman reported she had been sexually assaulted and robbed by a man in her vehicle. Ridgeland officer shoots suspect after being hit by car After an investigation, police arrested Anthony Charles Wilson, 47, of Copiah County, at a local establishment on December 29. He was charged with rape, two counts of kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said Wilson has an extensive record of arrests and convictions. Hes currently on parole with the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). Police said Wilson was also out on bond for a violent crime that occurred earlier this year. He is a registered sex offender. Wilson is being held at the Copiah County Jail without bond. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. MANILA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines' approved investments in 2024 amounted to 1.62 trillion pesos (28 billion U.S. dollars), the country's Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Tuesday. Citing data from the Board of Investments (BOI) of the Department of Trade and Industry, the PCO said the value of approved investments this year exceeded the government target of 1.5 trillion pesos (25.9 billion dollars). The PCO said the full-year 2024 approved investments are higher than the 1.26 trillion pesos (21.8 billion dollars) approved investments in 2023. The data showed the energy sector, specifically the renewable energy projects, recorded the biggest surge in approvals, totaling 1.38 trillion pesos (23.8 billion dollars), 40 percent higher than last year. The straphanger who was burned to death on a Brooklyn train has been identified as a New Jersey woman, police announced Tuesday more than a week after the horrific attack. The charred body of Debrina Kawam, 57, of Toms River, was ultimately IDd through fingerprints, sources told The Post. The victim of the horrifying Dec. 22 subway arson attack was so badly burned that she initially remained unidentified. Gregory P. Mango Kawam, who was described as homeless, had slept on an F train in the Stillwell Avenue-Coney Island station on Dec. 22 when she was allegedly set on fire around 7:30 a.m. by illegal Guatemalan immigrant Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, who now faces first-degree murder charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Horrifying video footage from the arson attack shows the accused killer fanning the flames as Kawam was consumed by the fire and calmly watching the scorched victim from a bench on the platform. The identification surprised Tom Rivers resident Olga Corpion, who bought the house Kawams mother once lived in. Corpion said she received an unexpected visit from Kawam shortly after buying the house, which was listed as the victims last known address, in a quaint cul-de-sac dotted with one-story Cape Cod houses. She said, Hi, my name is Debrina, and I want to go see my mom. My mother lives here. I want to talk to her, Corpion told The Post. She looked like she was in her 50s, so right away I assumed she was not well, because she didnt know her mom had moved. Im in shock that she was standing right here and then I found out she died so horribly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corpion said Kawam didnt appear to be homeless, at least in May, as she appeared to have an Uber waiting for her during their short, 10-minute interaction. In my mind, I thought she had some from an assisted living facility, Corpion said. She was dressed fine. She did not look like somebody who was homeless. Another neighbor of the home, Valerie Waskiewicz, said she recalled two women living in the Toms River home. The younger woman, presumably Kawam, cared for the older one, she said. There are a lot of people caring for family members that are elderly, and their behavior was perfectly normal for what they did, she said. So this is an absolute shock to me. And if this is this woman, its horrible and I dont know how this could have happened to her. Shes so far out of where she should have been, that this happened to her. It makes no sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources said Kawam had been living in Big Apple shelters since at least Sept. 9. Guatemalan immigrant Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, allegedly watched the woman burn in the Dec. 22 attack. According to police, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil left the Brooklyn station but was nabbed by NYPD cops in Manhattan. Obtained by the Post She had been given a bed at the Franklin Williams Womens Shelter in the Bronx on Nov. 30, but left on Dec. 2, the sources said. She had at least three prior scrapes with the police a transit bust for alcohol on April 28, a 2010 disorderly conduct charge in Maryland, and a New Jersey prostitution bust in 1994, according to law-enforcement sources. She resided in New Jersey and had a brief stint in our shelter system, Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday. Our hearts go out to the family for this horrific incident. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is charged with first-degree murder in the sick Brooklyn subway arson attack on Dec. 22. Gregory P. Mango Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was just a bad incident and impacts how New Yorkers feel, the mayor said. But it really reinforces what Ive been saying, people should not be living on our subway system. They should be in a place of care. No matter where she lived this shouldnt have happened. A source also told The Post she was alive when she was set on fire, with a walker and several bags nearby. The city medical examiner struggled to identify the body because it was so severely burned in the attack, sources previously said. Zapeta-Calil, who was arraigned on first- and second-degree murder and arson charges, is being held at Rikers Island without bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal immigration officials said he entered the US illegally in 2018 but was deported less than a week later only to find his way back into the country and to the Big Apple. By March 2023, he was living in the New York City shelter system. A pal at the Brooklyn facility where he last shacked up told The Post the migrant was addicted to smoking the synthetic drug K2 and drank heavily on a daily basis. The accused killer allegedly told cops he was so high, he didnt remember lighting the fire. He smoked K2, drank and bugged out, said shelter resident Raymond Robinson, who slept on a cot at the facility next to Zapeta-Calil until his arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would bug out and talk to himself when he was high, but never harmed nobody but himself, Robinson said. Thats why this st fked my head up because I slept next to him and he was never like that. I wouldnt leave my daughter with anybody but he was the type of dude I could trust. As long as he wasnt high, he added. Robinson said Zapeta-Calil liked to drink Voda vodka, the cheapest st there is. Additional reporting by Craig McCarthy and Georgett Roberts Chicago police issued a community alert Tuesday afternoon warning residents of the South Shore neighborhood about a female carjacker donning a red coat with a fur hood. Police said the carjacker approaches victims while they are seated in or standing near their vehicle, and pulls out a gun before announcing a robbery and making off with their vehicle. In recent days, at least three carjackings were reported with the females description in the South Shore neighborhood, according to the alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly before 1 a.m. Dec. 16, a victim was carjacked in the 6900 block of South Paxton Avenue. Shortly after 1 a.m. Dec. 21, another victim was carjacked in the 2000 block of East 70th Street. Around 8:45 p.m. Dec. 28, a third person was carjacked in the 6400 block of South Maryland Avenue, police said. The carjacker was described as an African American female wearing a red coat with a fur hood, a dark colored hooded sweatshirt and a ski mask. Anyone with information about the carjackers identification should contact detectives at 312-747-8380. Millions of Americans, including those in Wisconsin, are preparing to celebrate the New Year with family and friends. For those who are still prepping for the holiday, there are multiple grocery stores that remain open on New Year's Eve, including Costco locations. Here's what to know about Costco warehouse stores on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. When do Costco stores open and close on Dec. 31? If you need to make a last-minute trip to pick up some party supplies, Costco will be an option for you this year, as the company's warehouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Are Costco stores open on New Year's Day? Warehouses will be closed on Jan. 1, according to the company's website. What grocery stores are open on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in Wisconsin? Pick 'n Save: Open New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Metro Market: Open on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Trader Joe's: Open until 5 p.m. New Year's Eve, but closed New Year's Day Aldi: Limited hours on New Year's Eve and closed New Year's Day Woodman's Markets: Closed New Year's Eve at 7:45 p.m. and open 9 a.m. on New Year's Day Metcalfe's Markets: Open 6 a.m. to 10p.m. on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Outpost Natural Foods: Open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year's Eve and open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year's Day Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REATED: These Wisconsin grocery stores are open on New Years Eve, New Years Day Where are Costco locations in Wisconsin? You can find a list of Costco locations in Wisconsin on its website. Here are a few locations in suburban Milwaukee: Pewaukee: 443 Pewaukee Road Grafton: 950 Port Washington Road Menomonee Falls: W162N9235 Pershing Ave. New Berlin: 15300 W. Grange Ave. RELATED: Fireworks planned for downtown Milwaukee on New Year's Eve. What to know. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Is Costco open on New Year's Eve in Wisconsin? Store hours, locations Multiple cold fronts are expected to impact Florida over the next couple of weeks, driving temperatures down from where they're starting on New Year's Day, which is above normal. While the first two cold fronts forecast to arrive around Jan. 3-4 and Jan. 7-8 aren't expected to bring snow to the Sunshine State, there is chance the third front could bring snow to some areas, according to a telephone interview with AccuWeather Monday, Dec. 30. Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several factors have to line up just right, but the possibility is there, making some wonder when the last time it snowed in Florida. Others are just making indoor plans that involve a fireplace and a cup of hot chocolate. Arctic blast to send temperatures below freezing across much of Florida NOAA's temperature forecast for Jan. 7-13, 2025, is predicting temperatures below normal across Florida. Temperatures are forecast to be around freezing later this week in the Panhandle and North Florida, followed by temperatures dropping into the 20s next week for the same area. By Jan. 11-12, and depending on several factors, temperatures could drop around the freezing mark even in South Florida, according to Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather long-range meteorologist. Will it snow? "I would say its zero chance with the Jan 3-4 and 7-8 events," said Michael Doll, AccuWeather senior meteorologist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If the blast is intense enough during the second week of January, then its possible some people in Florida can see some snow flakes," she added. Based on long-range forecasts, here's what the cold fronts could bring: Jan. 3-4: Panhandle/North Florida: around freezing Central Florida: low to mid 40s South Florida: upper 40s to low 50s Jan. 7-8: Panhandle/North Florida: below freezing; some areas could drop into the upper 20s Central Florida: above freezing, with some areas in the upper 30s and low 40s South Florida: upper 40s into the low 50s Jan. 11-12: Panhandle/North Florida: It's possible some aeras could see temperatures in the teens Central Florida: mid to upper 20s, even in Orlando South Florida: It's hard for Arctic air "to get all the way down there, but temperatures could be around the freezing mark. It would take a lot to get Miami around freezing but interior locations could potentially slip below freezing," DaSilva said Has it ever snowed in Florida? Yes, it has. While snow doesn't fall every year, it has made an appearance, much to the delight of some residents. The first documented account of snow in Florida was reported in 1774, according to the Florida Climate Center. "Since 1886, there have been more than 80 months in which at least a trace of snow has been reported somewhere in the state," the Climate Center reported. How far south has it snowed in Florida? Snow has been seen as far south as Miami Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 19, 1977, snow fell in South Florida for the first time in recorded history, according to the National Weather Service. Snow was seen across Southeast Florida as far south as Homestead and even on Miami Beach. Weather observers also reported snow in West Palm Beach, LaBelle, Hollywood, and Royal Palm Ranger Station in Miami-Dade County. "Residents and visitors were both surprised and thrilled at the rare phenomena, and local newspapers ran headlines which were nearly as big as it would be for major national or world events," the Weather Service reported. Every reporting station in North and Central Florida recorded at least a trace of snow, according to the Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tampa measured 0.20 inches and Plant City, east of Tampa, measured up to 2 inches. Pensacola, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? When is the last time it snowed? Whether it will snow in Pensacola and the western Panhandle toward the end of next week is "highly uncertain at this time," according to Jessica Chace, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Mobile. Conditions are setting up for it to be "significantly colder" and there could be "upper-level energy to support precipitation. "The challenge is whether it all happens at same time," Chace said. The last time it snowed in Pensacola was Jan. 28, 2014, when there was 1 inch of snow. There have been other occasions where there was a trace of snow, but the January 2014 "snowfall" was the last time there was a measurable amount, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A "superstorm" March 12, 1993, brought up to 4 inches of snow along the Florida Panhandle, according to the Florida Climate Center. Tallahassee, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? When is the last time it snowed? "When it's cold enough to snow, it's usually too dry," said Mark Wool, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tallahassee. "It's way too early to speculate whether it will snow (next week). The real cold stuff is set to arrive by end of next week. Some models do show the cold air in place and then a weak disturbance possibly generating some snow but there's no model consensus right now. "There's low possibility but it's too early to determine whether it will happen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last time it snowed in Tallahassee was Jan. 3, 2018, when the area received 1- to two-tenths of an inch, slight but measurable and "it was cold enough for it to stick for a brief period," Wool said. Before that, 1 inch of snow fell Dec. 23, 1989, he said. On Feb. 13, 1958, rain changed to snow, bringing 2.8 inches to Tallahassee, according to the Florida Climate Center. Jacksonville, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? When is the last time it snowed? "We need to take the models with a grain of salt," said Tony Cruz, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Jacksonville. "It all depends on if all the ingredients are there. "If they all line up perfectly, there is a potential for some snow flurries for our area, but we're not sure it will happen (at this time). We will keep an eye on the models." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last time it snowed in Jacksonville was Dec. 23-25, 1989, bringing 0.8 inches of snow just in time for its first white Christmas. Daytona Beach, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? When is the last time it snowed? "There's a lot of uncertainty and plenty can change" before next weekend, said Robert Haley, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Melbourne. "What we can say right now is that it will be colder than normal, with each front reinforcing the other. "Ensemble models similar to spaghetti models for hurricanes next weekend show a 20- to-30 degree spread for Saturday (Jan. 11) morning. Some models show temperatures in the 20s and others in the 40s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's a slim possibility of snow but a lot can change" before next weekend. "The challenge with snow in Florida is that below-freezing temperatures are usually from a dry air mass so there's not enough moisture to bring snow," Haley said. You've heard of lake-effect snow bringing tons of snow to areas along the Great Lakes? In Florida, the needed moisture for snow sometimes comes from the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic, sort of Gulf effect or Atlantic effect snow, Haley said. There were some flurries in Melbourne Jan. 3, 2008, and sleet or graupel in early 2011. More sleet or graupel was reported on Christmas morning in 2022 in Cocoa and Rockledge, but nothing measurable. What are sleet and graupel? Sleet, also called ice pellets, are frozen raindrops that hit the Earth's surface. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sleet occurs when snowflakes only partially melt when they fall through a shallow layer of warm air. These slushy drops refreeze as they next fall through a deep layer of freezing air above the surface, and eventually reach the ground as frozen rain drops that bounce on impact," according to the National Weather Service. Just like snow, sleet can accumulate on the ground. "Graupel forms when supercooled water droplets coat a snowflake. It looks like Styrofoam or Dippin Dots," the National Weather Service said, adding that graupel forms in the same way as hail except the diameter is less than 5 millimeters. Melbourne, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? Has it ever snowed? Chances are even slimmer for snow in Melbourne next weekend than they are for Daytona Beach. From Melbourne south, there has never been measurable snow, Haley said. There was a wintery mix of sleet and freezing rain, along with some light snow, in Jan. 8-9, 2010, but, again, nothing measurable. Will it snow at Disney World as Arctic blast moves south? "It's still too far out to tell right now. The temperatures may be cooler (in the central part of the state) but it also may be drier," Haley said. The last time it snowed in Orlando was in January 1977. At that time, less than 0.05" inches of snow was reported. Light snow was reported in parts of Central Florida on Jan. 8-9, 2010, with sleet/snow reported in Orlando, according to the Florida Climate Center. On Nov. 21, 2006, "a dusting of snow fell over portions of Central Florida, the first November snow in the state since 1912, the Florida Climate Center said. Port St. Lucie, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? Has there ever been snow reported along East Coast? Chances drop even further for the possibility of snow along the Treasure Coast, compared to Melbourne, Daytona Beach and Jacksonville. While there may have been snow reported in Port St. Lucie in the past, it was probably very isolated, Haley said. West Palm Beach, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? Has it ever snowed in South Florida? Models do show a strong cold front coming to South Florida "but this far out there's so much that can change," said Shawn Bhatti, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Miami. The last time snow was reported in West Palm Beach was Jan. 19, 1977. The "extremely rare" event was documented with photos, which showed snow covering the ground, Bhatti said. Snow flurries were reported in West Palm Beach and Kendall on Jan. 8-9, 2010, according to the Florida Climate Center. Naples, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? Has it ever snowed in Southwest Florida? There has been no measurable snowfall in Naples, although there have been some reports of residents saying they saw flurries in January 1977, Bhatti said. In January 2010, freezing temperatures occurred just before sunrise on a couple of consecutive days, even in coastal areas of Collier County, but snow was not reported. Temperatures below 32 degrees in Naples' coastal area are seen only an average of two to three times a decade, according to the National Weather Service. Fort Myers, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? Have there been snow flurries? It's too early to say anything definitive, but snow is unlikely next weekend for both Fort Myers and Sarasota, said Tyler Fleming, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Tampa Bay, On Jan. 19, 1977, snow flurries were reported in Fort Myers, but nothing accumulated on the ground. Snow flurries also were reported as far south as Fort Myers during the Great Arctic Outbreak of 1774, according to the Florida Climate Center. Don't think it gets cold enough for snow in Fort Myers? The Florida Climate said the temperature dropped to 27 degrees in December 1989. There have been at least 10 occasions since 1894 when temperatures dropped to 30 or below. Sarasota, Florida: Will it snow in January 2025? When is the last time it snowed? Just like in Fort Myers, it's too early to say whether it will snow in Sarasota Jan. 11-12, but it is unlikely, Fleming said. Snow in Florida does happen, but a white Christmas is much less likely On Jan. 19, 1977, 0.2 inches of snow was recorded in Tampa. Sarasota saw flurries, but nothing accumulated on the ground, Fleming said. Right before Christmas, from Dec. 23-24, 1989 in what has been called the Christmas coastal snowstorm of 1989 Sarasota had snow flurries. Just like in 1977, nothing accumulated on the ground. Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text What's next? We will continue to update our weather coverage daily. Download your local site's app to ensure you're always connected to the news. And look for our special subscription offers here. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida snow forecast, history: Arctic blast, cold fronts coming SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) An Emergency Risk Protection Order filed by New York State Police against one of the corrections officers accused of assaulting Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility has revealed the details of Brooks autopsy. Catalyst for change: Brooks Family speaks publicly for first time after deadly Marcy beating The court document states that the Onondaga County Medical Examiners Office conducted its autopsy on Brooks on Dec. 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brooks suffered multiple bruises to his face and extremities, a nasal bone fracture, soft tissue hemorrhaging in the muscles in his neck, hemorrhaging overlaying the thyroid cartilage and hemorrhaging in his genital area. The medical examiner also expressed concerns for asphyxia from compression of the neck as the cause of death, the court document states. Brooks official final cause of death is still pending, according to the document. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. Dec. 31DIXON From a surprise sentence commutation and a Rock Falls man's prison sentence for three counts of first-degree murder to teens being charged as adults in first-degree murder and attempted murder cases, Shaw Local has been covering numerous cases moving through courtrooms in Lee and Whiteside counties. Here are a few of the high-profile cases we have covered in the past year: Crundwell's commutation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rita Crundwell, the former Dixon city comptroller convicted of embezzling $53.7 million from the city described as the largest municipal theft in U.S. history was one of about 1,500 people granted clemency by President Joe Biden just weeks before he leaves office. Four years shy of completing a 19-year, seven-month prison sentence for a single count of wire fraud, Crundwell earlier this month was listed among the people whose sentences were being commuted or pardoned in what was the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history. Biden's sweeping act commuted 1,499 sentences of prisoners who had been released and placed on home confinement during the coronavirus pandemic and granted pardons to 39 Americans convicted of nonviolent crimes. A pardon relieves a person of guilt and punishment. Commuting a sentence, as in Crundwell's case, reduces or eliminates the punishment but doesn't exonerate the wrongdoing. The Bureau of Prisons website indicates that she originally was set to be discharged from her sentence Oct. 20, 2028, three months before she turns 76. [ From Arrest to Commutation: The Full Story of Rita Crundwell ] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Crundwell case began more than a dozen years ago when the mayor, the late Jim Burke, went to the FBI in October 2011 with concerns about phony city bank accounts and money gone missing. Crundwell was taken out of city hall in handcuffs April 17, 2012, and accused of stealing millions of city funds across her tenure in office. She used the funds to pay for a lavish lifestyle raising champion quarter horses, a $2 million tour bus, jewels, furs, multiple homes and other trappings while Dixon struggled to pay for infrastructure and other projects. After pleading guilty, she was sentenced Feb. 14, 2013, to almost the 20-year maximum by U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard in federal court in Rockford. Crundwell was required to serve as least 85% of her sentence, but she was released from federal prison in Pekin in August 2021, about a year after pursuing compassionate release, citing illness and fear of contracting COVID-19. Crundwell cited a variety of health issues in her petition for early release, granted under the terms of the CARES Act, which went into effect March 26, 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In all, Crundwell served 8 1/2 years in the Pekin Correctional Center. Crundwell was allowed to return to her family in Dixon. Dixon was made almost financially whole by a settlement with the company that gave its books a clean bill of health year after year, and by proceeds from the sale of Crundwell's belongings. Rock Falls man ordered to serve three life sentences plus 105 years for deadly arson Steven W. Coleman, 45, was sentenced Oct. 17 to three consecutive life sentences and another 105 years in prison for setting a fatal fire in June 2020 at the Western Apartments in Sterling. The fire killed Celina Serrano, 13, Shyla Walker, 8, of Davenport, Iowa, and Carrie A. (Hall) Hose, 49. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coleman was found guilty in July of three counts of first-degree murder and ordered to serve three consecutive life sentences. He also was sentenced to 30 years in prison, with a mandatory 85% to be served, for each of three counts of aggravated arson in regard to severe injuries suffered by two residents and a Dixon firefighter at the scene, for a total of 90 years on those counts. On the final count, a residential arson charge, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Whiteside County Circuit Court Judge Trish Senneff in November denied Coleman's request to reconsider his sentence. [ Rock Falls man found guilty of three counts of first-degree murder ] A jury found him guilty after a five-day trial, agreeing with the prosecution that Coleman set the fire in retaliation for a drug deal in which the cocaine he thought he was purchasing turned out to be fake. The sentences are to be served back to back, and he will not be eligible for parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coleman later filed a motion stating that he had ineffective counsel and was seeking a new trial. During a Sept. 18 hearing, Coleman told Senneff that Dana McCormick, the public defender who represented him at his criminal trial, was unable to effectively represent him because her boss, James Fagerman, was employed as an attorney with the Sterling law firm Mertes & Mertes at the time charges were filed four years ago. Mertes & Mertes is the law firm representing fire victims in a $100 million civil lawsuit that names Coleman as a defendant. Ruling from the bench, Senneff said she found no evidence of a conflict of interest. [ Judge denies Rock Falls man's claims of ineffective counsel at Western Apartments murder trial ] Coleman was again in court Sept. 26, this time asking for a new trial. Senneff again ruled against Coleman, saying the presented evidence led the jury to return a guilty verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [ Judge denies Sterling arsonist's new trial request, says evidence shows his actions killed three people ] He was sentenced Oct. 17. In a motion to reconsider his sentence filed five days later, Coleman argued that the court did not take into consideration each and every factor in mitigation when determining the sentence, that the court placed insufficient weight on the factors in mitigation, and that the sentences imposed were excessive in light of the spirit and purpose of the law. Coleman has filed a notice of appeal. An appellate court order appointing an appellate defender has been filed. Ashton teen accused of slaying girlfriend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Ashton teen was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the Oct. 15 discovery of his 16-year-old girlfriend's body in the apartment they shared. David J. Sosa is charged with four counts of first-degree murder in the strangulation death of Jaedyn A. Hill, who turned 16 on Oct. 6, Lee County Sheriff Clay Whelan said. Sosa, who turned 18 on Dec. 18, is charged as an adult. Hill's death came to light the morning of Oct. 15, when the Lee County Sheriff's Office received a call about 7 a.m. from the Rochelle Police Department. The Lee County Sheriff's Office learned that a teenager, later identified as Sosa, had walked into the Rochelle Police Department's lobby about 6:45 a.m., said he was involved in a murder and provided information. As a result, Lee County deputies went to 702 Richardson Ave., Apt. A, in Ashton, to carry out a welfare check. That's when they found Hill's body in the apartment. Sosa and Hill, who were in a dating relationship, resided at the apartment, Whelan said. According to court documents, Sosa is accused of placing a belt around Hill's neck and strangling her to the point of asphyxiation. He then walked 11 miles from Ashton to Rochelle to turn himself in at the police department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges carry a sentencing range of 20 years to 60 years in state prison upon conviction. Sosa's next court appearance is a pretrial conference at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 30 in Lee County Circuit Court. 17-year-old charged with shooting at Sterling restaurant A Rock Falls teen charged with attempted murder, burglary and aggravated battery in connection with a Nov. 6 shooting at Sterling's Pizza Ranch is facing those charges in adult court. Harrison Webb, who will turn 18 in January, is charged with one count of attempted murder, one count of aggravated battery with a firearm and two counts of burglary. He stands accused of walking into the restaurant's kitchen about 7:45 p.m. Nov. 6, pulling a gun from the front pocket of his shorts, walking up behind a 17-year-old worker who was preparing pizza pans and shooting him in the neck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he is convicted, Webb, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, could spend anywhere from six years to life in prison. Prosecutors have said Webb and the wounded employee, also a Rock Falls 17-year-old, had had ongoing issues with each other. The teens' dispute boiled over on social media the morning of Nov. 6 while both teens were part of a Snapchat message group. Prosecutors said Webb walked from his Rock Falls home, crossed a bridge into Sterling and continued walking to Pizza Ranch at 3900 E. Lincolnway. People were eating in the restaurant as he walked in and headed to the kitchen, where four employees were working, Whiteside County State's Attorney Colleen Buckwalter said in court, adding that a surveillance camera shows a shooter walked up behind the victim, saying "That's what you get," and shooting him from 18 inches away. The bullet entered the back of the victim's neck and exited through the front. The victim was taken to CGH Medical Center in Sterling, treated and released. The shooter left the restaurant and was believed to have fled into a nearby cornfield. Webb was arrested at 12:15 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, when a warrant issued in Whiteside County court that morning was served at his home. If convicted, Webb faces six to 30 years for attempted murder and would have to serve 85% of the sentence under state law. That could be enhanced to add 25 years or up to life in prison. The aggravated battery with a firearm charge, which also is a Class X felony, carries the same potential sentence of six to 30 years with 85% to be served. The burglary charges carry sentences of three to seven years in prison. A pretrial conference is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Jan. 22, with a jury trial set to begin Feb. 11 in Whiteside County Circuit Court. Sterling teen accused of attempted murder after two shot in Sterling Michael W.T. Bennett Jr., who turned 17 in May, was charged in September in adult court with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm, and one count each of aggravated discharge of a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm in a July shooting that injured two teens, according to Whiteside County court documents. The shooting happened shortly before 6 p.m. July 23 in the area of 13th Avenue and East Fifth Street in Sterling. A 17-year-old boy was shot in the head, and a 14-year-old boy was struck in the leg, according to court documents. Officers said the two injured teens were passengers in a vehicle that was fired upon, resulting in the vehicle colliding with a utility pole. The occupants of the two vehicles the one from where police said the gun was fired and the other carrying the injured boys are acquaintances, according to a Sterling Police Department news release issued shortly after the shooting. Sterling police announced Sept. 11 that a juvenile, taken into custody Sept. 9, had been charged with one count each of attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm. The additional charges, naming Bennett, were filed Thursday, Sept. 26. Charging documents indicate that all of the charges could be tried in adult court because of the two charges that allege Bennett committed a battery with a firearm by shooting one victim in the head and the other in the leg. He is accused of gaining possession of the firearm a Ruger 5.7 the previous day, and knew that it was a stolen gun, according to court documents. The one count of aggravated discharge of a firearm accuses him of shooting the Ruger within 1,000 feet of Lincoln Elementary School at 1501 E. Sixth St. A charge of using a stolen firearm in the commission of an offense was added Dec. 10 to the list of charges. The attempted murder and aggravated battery charges are Class X felonies that upon conviction carry possible enhanced prison sentences of 25 years to life in prison; 85% of the sentence would have to be served. His next court hearing, a pretrial conference, is set for 11 a.m. Feb. 7. His trial is slated to begin at 8:30 a.m. March 18. Dec. 31WILKES-BARRE As Luzerne County Judge Stefanie Salavantis begins her tenure as president judge, the Court of Common Pleas will continue the process of disposing of recent and some old open criminal cases. One case that could come to a resolution in 2025 has been ongoing for more than three years with the arrests of John Watson, 48, and William Smiley, 52, on allegations they sexually assaulted a teen girl inside a Luzerne Borough apartment in October 2021. Watson allegedly abducted the girl and sexually assaulted her several times before she managed to call for help from a Plains Township motel on Oct. 25, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case has been delayed on multiple fronts due to Watson's federal charges of possession of child pornography, in which he was convicted by a federal jury in November 2023, and his turbulent relationships with defense lawyers. Watson's sentencing on the federal conviction has been delayed multiple times as he has filed multiple motions for a new trial. Watson is further contesting evidence in his criminal case in Luzerne County and has recently filed a motion for another defense lawyer to replace is court-appointed attorney, Max Lubin. Meanwhile, Smiley is challenging his case through his famed defense lawyer, Attorney John B. Pike. A suppression hearing on Watson's motion to prohibit evidence in his Luzerne County case is scheduled for Jan. 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to the Times Leader and motions filed in court, Watson has claimed his arrest was unlawful by a corrupt law enforcement officer. Another case expected to remain notable if it passes the test at the magisterial district court level is one involving five people Jason Race, 43; Faith Beamer, 40; Desiree K. Linnette, 43; Sara Kamalani Doyle, 25; and William B. Wolfe, 55 for the torture and killing of Nicole Cuevas, 38, inside a residence on Carlisle Street, Wilkes-Barre, in April 2023. The body of Cuevas, of Saginaw, Mich., was discovered buried in the dirt basement of the row house on Feb. 28, 2024. Preliminary hearings for the five is scheduled on Jan. 31 before District Judge Rick Cronauer of Wilkes-Barre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also coming up in 2025, Judge Joseph F. Sklarosky Jr. has been assigned to preside over the criminal homicide case of Branden Delcastillo, 28, charged with the fatal shooting of Lonnie Davis, 35, on East Northampton Street, Wilkes-Barre, on Sept. 9. Court records say Delcastillo and Davis had a long standing feud. When the two men encountered one another on the busy downtown street during daylight hours, Delcastillo fired multiple shots, killing Davis, court records say. Delcastillo is scheduled to be formally arraigned by Sklarosky on the criminal homicide charge on Jan. 29. Judge Sklarosky is also presiding over the criminal homicide case against Louis Weihbrecht, 56, accused in fatally running over Mark Reginal Svadeba, 47, outside an auto repair garage on North Main Street, Plains Township, on Sept. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators allege Weihbrecht intentionally ran over Svadeba with his Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck in a feud about a woman. Weihbrecht's trial is scheduled for September 2025. Another long standing case that could see a resolution in 2025 is Linasheri D'Onofrio, 57, charged with neglect of care of a dependant person and reckless burning after the body of her disabled son, 24-year-old Shain D'Onofrio, was discovered in a shed by Plains Township firefighters on Feb. 24, 2018. Linasheri D'Onofrio was charged by the Pennsylvania State Police at Wilkes-Barre in February 2023. Her attorney, Sidney D. May, has filed a motion to dismiss the case based on statute of limitations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A hearing on the motion has not been scheduled but will likely be set for early 2025. Judge Michael T. Vough also has a busy January 2025 planned, as he will preside over the Hazleton criminal homicide case against Jafet Rodriguez, 44, who was charged with fatally shooting Ashokkumar Patel inside Craig's Food Mart on West Broad Street on Dec. 12, 2020. Patel was a store clerk at the food mart when he was killed. Rodriguez's case has been delayed due to motion challenges by his attorneys, Joseph F. Sklarosky Sr. and Michael A. Sklarosky. A status conference for Rodriguez is scheduled for Jan. 3 with his trial set to begin in late January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A case verbally agreed upon but not yet official with a plea agreement is the fatal fratricidal shooting of Kevin Matthew Kilpatrick, 30, allegedly by his brother John James Kilpatrick, 35, inside their Jackson Township home on Aug. 31, 2023. John Kilpatrick, through his attorney, Robert M. Gamburg, announced a plea deal was in the works to plead guilty to third-degree murder. A possible plea agreement may be presented before Judge David W. Lupas on Jan. 28. Judge Lupas is also presiding over a trial involving three people Yuamir S. Grayson, 28; Breanna Knight, 28; and Kadeen Carruth, 20 for the fatal ambush and shooting of Elijah Rivers, 22, on North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, on Jan. 30 2023. Their combined criminal homicide trial is scheduled for March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staying busy, Lupas is also presiding over criminal homicide cases against Jaime B. Knights, 65, and Fernando Cupeles Bracero, 30, for their alleged roles in the fatal stabbing of Scott Edward Knox, 33, in an alley near South River and Academy streets, Wilkes-Barre, on May 7. A third suspect charged in the fatal stabbing, Justice Supreme Flenory, 24, remains jailed in Maine where he was captured on Aug. 26. Knights and Bracero are scheduled to appear before Lupas to be formally arraigned on criminal homicide charges on Jan. 10. The criminal homicide case against Walter Zolner III, 32, for the fatal beating of Ryan Walker Padovani, 22, inside an apartment on East Bennett Street, Kingston, on May 4, 2023, could be resurrected in 2025. Zolner's trial before Judge Vough was continued due to his mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Sklarosky will also preside over the criminal homicide case against Kawan Ikee Scarborough, 40, charged with the fatal beating of Lastarr Williams, 27, inside her apartment on West Church Street, Nanticoke, on May 27, 2023. Scarborough is scheduled for trial in June. As with any court case, dates of scheduled proceedings are subject to change. Felonies The following people were booked into the Lee County-Tupelo Adult Jail in connection with felony charges ending Monday at 11 a.m. Christopher Bogan, 36, of Shannon, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, possession of a Schedule II drug, improper equipment, no insurance. Joseph Byrd, 42, of Hamington, New Jersey, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, possession of methamphetamine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eddie Hester, 52, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, aggravated domestic violence, kidnapping. Rufus Lauderdale, 41, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, shooting into a motor vehicle. Stacy McCammon, 30, of New Albany, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, possession of methamphetamine, failure to stop for blue lights. Tony Parker, 28, of Guntown, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Lee County Sheriffs Office The following reports were filed Monday by the Lee County Sheriffs Office. A County Road 1409, Mooreville, business said an unknown white male walked into a building. Security cameras showed the man break into a toolbox and a Pepsi machine. He then destroyed a wall heater and took 10 gallons of diesel from equipment. Before he left, the man vomited and defected in the break room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Highway 370, Baldwyn, woman saw flashlights shining behind her camper around 3:15 a.m. She did not know who it was. She added that she had several items stolen in the past. The pastor of Chesterville Baptist Church on County Road 41, Tupelo, walked outside around 6 a.m. and saw a car with its lights still on parked in the churchyard. Deputies responded and determined the car had not been reported stolen. Since it was on private property, it would be up to the church to call a wrecker. A County Road 1043, Tupelo, man got an alert from his security system that around midnight, an unknown white male walked to each of the houses windows and tried to open them. The suspect also checked the houses doors. Nothing was missing. The mans son saw a white SUV with weird headlights pull into the driveway about the same time. A Mooreville woman called to report there was a dog at a County Road 1205, Nettleton, address whose doghouse was surrounded by water and had no place dry to stand. She was concerned about the dogs welfare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A County Road 1557, Mooreville, woman heard someone outside her house around 12:30 p.m. She looked outside and saw an unknown man wearing an orange shirt. She called her mother, made sure the doors were locked, then went back to her bedroom to wait for deputies to arrive. Once on the scene, deputies checked the property but found no one. A Palmetto Road man said he was pulling a trailer down Highway 178 when the trailer came off the hitch and damaged the rear bumper of his 2024 GMC Sierra pickup. He parked his truck at the Mooreville One Stop around 9:30 a.m. When he came back an hour later, he noticed that someone had hit and damaged the right rear quarter panel. He said he is the new owner of the store and had not had a chance to put up new surveillance cameras. A County Road 151, Plantersville, woman said she saw a man walking in her yard around 3 p.m. The white male had brown hair and was wearing a teal cardigan, red pants and red shoes. Deputies rode through the area and saw a man fitting the description at a residence down the road. The woman said if anything else happened, she would call back. A Highway 371, Mooreville, man said a stray black-and-brown dog showed up at his house and was hit by a car on Christmas Eve. Attempts to catch the dog were unsuccessful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A County Road 231, Blue Springs, woman said overnight, someone entered two unlocked cars. They stole $41 cash from her wallet. A County Road 231, Blue Springs, man heard his truck alarm going off at 1 a.m. He said there was nothing in the truck to steal. The next morning, he realized the passenger door latch was damaged and it will no longer lock. He said he often sees people who are staying across from Camp Creek Church walking down the road at night. A Drive 136, Okolona, man noticed his 9mm Hi Point pistol was missing the day after Christmas. He is not sure if it was stolen or if he misplaced it. The last place he remembers seeing it was in his coat pocket. He wanted to file a report in case it falls into the wrong hands. A County Road 300, Shannon, woman was in bed around 7:30 p.m. when she heard three or four gunshots. She turned on the lights and walked out on the porch. She heard more gunshots outside. When she went back inside, she discovered glass on her bed and a bullet hole in the windowpane. She did not find any other bullet holes in the residence. Deputies found five .380 shell casings at the site. Anyone with information on any of these reports is urged to call the Lee County Sheriff's Office at 841-9041, the Tupelo Police Department at 841-6491 or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Mississippi at (800) 773-TIPS or download the P3 Tip App and leave an anonymous tip that way. SEOUL, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The remains of 174 people have tentatively been identified out of 179 killed in a deadly passenger jet crash that occurred in South Korea's southwestern airport Sunday, the transport ministry said Tuesday. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said in a briefing for the bereaved families that among 32 victims who could not be identified by fingerprints, 17 victims were identified in the first DNA test while 10 more were identified in the second DNA test. The identification of the remaining five victims failed due to DNA inconsistencies. The bodies of four identified victims were transferred to the bereaved families and the funeral service for them had begun, according to the ministry. The authorities said earlier that it could take up to 10 days for all the bodies to be handed over to their families as most of them were severely damaged. The Boeing 737-800 of the Jeju Air crashed while landing at the Muan International Airport, some 290 km southwest of Seoul. Because of the estimated landing gear failure, the airplane landed without wheels, skidded off the runway and crashed into the outer wall of the runway, with its fuselage broken apart and catching fire. HAVANA (AP) Cuban authorities released a Salvadoran man who was convicted of participating in a string of hotel bombings on the island in 1997, a government-run news site said. The Cubadebate website reported Monday in a lengthy editorial that Raul Ernesto Cruz Leon was freed after completing a 30-year prison sentence, but added that the men who planned the attacks have not been brought to justice. The liberation of Cruz Leon today, after completing his sentence, exemplifies the coherence of Cubas legal system, Cubadebate said. However we cannot forget that the intellectual authors of these terrorist acts have lived and died in the United States without facing justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1997, several hotels and bars in Cuba were bombed by enemies of Fidel Castros communist government, looking to undermine the islands tourism industry. An Italian tourist was killed in one of the attacks. The bombings were allegedly masterminded by Luis Posada Carriles, a Cuban exile who sought refuge in the United States in 2005 and died in 2018 without facing prosecution for the attacks. Posada Carriles discussed the bombings with The New York Times in a 1998 interview, saying that he lamented the death of Italian tourist Fabio Di Celmo, while adding that the attacks were meant to frighten tourists from visiting the island. The attacks happened at a time when Castro was looking to develop new sources of income for his cash-strapped government, which was reeling from the economic impact of U.S. sanctions and the collapse of the Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a 2011 interview with The Associated Press, Cruz Leon confessed to placing a bomb in the Hotel Copacabana that killed the Italian tourist. Cruz Leon said he had received the explosives from Francisco Chavez Abarca, another Salvadoran mercenary. Chavez Abarca was arrested in Venezuela in 2010 and extradited to Cuba, where he was also convicted for his role in the attacks. I am simply a soldier who was sent to a war that I did not belong to, and in which I should have not gotten involved, Cruz Leon told AP in the 2011 interview. Cruz Leon was initially sentenced to death. But his penalty was reduced to 30 years in prison in 2010. Under Cubas legal system, 10 months in prison is equivalent to a year of sentencing, which explains his release in 2024. Cuban officials have not provided further information on where Cruz Leon has gone since being released, or made any other statements about his release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cubadebates article on Monday reiterated demands made by the Cuban government for the island nation to be removed from a U.S. government list of nations that sponsor terrorist groups. Cuba was removed from the list in 2015 by the Obama administration as relations warmed between the countries, but it was once again designated a state that sponsors terrorism by the first Trump administration. Cubas latest inclusion on the list happened after its government refused a request by Colombia to arrest rebel leaders from that country who had been in Havana for peace talks. Colombia's new government run by leftist leader Gustavo Petro has withdrawn that request and asked the U.S. to remove Cuba from the list of terrorist states. The U.S. list of terrorist states is hypocrisy, the article said. Montana Sen. Steve Daines, a Republican, speaks during a signing ceremony for the Great American Outdoors Act in the East Room of the White House on Aug. 4, 2020 in Washington, DC. The new public lands law aims to fix crumbling national park infrastructure and permanently fund The Land and Water Conservation Fund. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) The U.S. Department of State has designated a U.S. citizen with ties to Montana who is imprisoned in Russia as wrongfully detained, according to the office of U.S. Sen. Steve Daines. The designation triggers actions that prioritize the release of an American detained abroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daines, a Republican, announced the designation of Marc Fogel as wrongfully detained in a news release Monday and praised the State Department for it. In the news release Daines also renewed calls for Fogel, a school teacher, to be immediately released by the Russian government. Marc Fogel just spent his fourth Christmas serving an unjust 14-year sentence of hard labor in a Russian prison because he was convicted of outrageous drug trafficking charges, Daines said in a statement. Fogel is serving a sentence of hard labor in a Russian prison for possession of marijuana. The international baccalaureate history teacher was arrested in Moscows Sheremetyevo Airport in August 2021, States Newsrooms Washington, D.C., Bureau earlier reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fogel was convicted in 2022. In an interview with States Newsroom in 2023, Fogels family said he suffers from chronic pain from numerous surgeries and uses medical marijuana as part of his pain management regimen. In 2023, Fogels family members met with White House and other U.S. officials, including Daines, about his case. Were letting (lawmakers) know were still here, were still waiting, were still pushing, Marcs sister Anne Fogel, of Missoula, told the D.C. Bureau of States Newsroom; States Newsroom is the parent organization of the Daily Montanan. At the time, Daines said he had been pressing the Biden administration to escalate efforts to bring him home, and he also called for Fogels release on the Senate floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August 2024, the White House announced it had secured a deal to bring back four other Americans unjustly imprisoned in Russia, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Fogel was not part of that group. In response to a question about what he would tell Fogels family, President Joe Biden said, Were not giving up on that, according to the White House briefing. In the news release this week, Daines, a Republican, said its time for Fogel to come home. The State Department finally acknowledged what we have always known: that Marcs arrest was politically motivated and President Biden should have immediately designated him as wrongfully detained in 2021, Daines said in the news release. He should be released immediately. Fogel is from Pennsylvania, and lawmakers from Pennsylvania also had been pushing for the State Department to designate him as wrongfully detained. A photograph of a screencap that shows the dark web site of ransom group Brain Cipher. Pictured is a list of security measures the hackers claim were absent on the Deloitte-made network for RIBridges, the public benefits system for Rhode Island. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) A trove of personal data burgled from Rhode Islands public benefits network in early December has finally made its way onto the dark web, Gov. Dan McKee announced Monday afternoon. At around 7 a.m, the countdown timer on Brain Ciphers dark web site was replaced with a download button for the now-published files, plus a note taunting the path not taken by the systems architect and vendor, Deloitte: It seems that it was easier to pay and fix everything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The international cybercriminal group had threatened to release the data stolen from RIBridges the online infrastructure that determines eligibility for benefits like food stamps and Medicaid if its ransom demand went unmet by a deadline that changed at least five times over the last two weeks. The ransom group had moved the deadline to Monday if it didnt receive an unspecified payment from Deloitte after extending the deadline from Dec. 24. That deadline was already elongated, with hackers giving the original cutoff date as Dec. 15, although the reasons for the extensions remain unclear. The data breach was first made public on Dec. 13. McKee confirmed that at least some of the files thought to be part of the breach were part of the data dump during a State House press conference Monday afternoon. The extent of havoc wrought by the cyberattack is still unclear, but state officials estimated on Dec. 23 that the personal information like Social Security numbers, addresses and banking info of up to 650,000 Rhode Islanders could be impacted. That number represents 59% of the states population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Identifying what is in those files is a complex process, but theyre working right now to make those identifications, McKee told reporters, adding that Deloitte, not the state, has been negotiating with the hackers. This is the way that these processes happen, McKee said. Deloitte is the one who has the direct contact with cyber criminals, and were in contact with them on the IT issues, how quickly can we get the system back up and running. Deloitte representatives have been conspicuously absent from all five press conferences held since the breach was made public. A spokesperson for Deloitte did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday night. When a reporter asked about how the state would ensure the benefits system is safe once its back online, Brian Tardiff, the states chief digital officer, noted that a third-party would audit Deoittes system once its restored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tardiff reiterated that he expects a Deloitte representative will appear at a press conference, eventually. I think that were having significant progress in my conversations with Deloitte, McKee said. But for now, the governor said the focus is on ensuring Rhode Islanders can get their benefits and take steps to protect their identities before the leaked information spreads. HealthSource RI, the states health insurance marketplace, is partially linked to RIBridges and remains offline along with the rest of the system. The state has pushed back the open enrollment deadline, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 28. Many more data strings left to untangle Connor Goodwolf, a Columbus, Ohio-based cybersecurity expert and software engineer has already started to plumb some of the leaked data. He said he is conducting an independent analysis of approximately 576 gigabytes of files published Monday and has forwarded his results to the FBI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, Goodwolf has been able to analyze one zipped folder about 900 megabytes in size, or less than 1% of the dumps contents, he confirmed in a text Monday night. Hes using code written in Python, a programming language that helps automate tasks in this case, checking the contents of the hackers bounty. Goodwolf said his work has been slowed because the hackers dark web site keeps going down. I can tell you the file contains around 100k names of benefit recipients, Goodwolf said. There are also addresses and phone numbers, as well as cross references to other databases. Several lines in one database, for example, seem to indicate data related to the Social Security Administrations (SSA) prisoner match, which crosschecks an applicants incarceration status to determine eligibility for federal benefits. There are some data strings which look like theyre for processing an application, Goodwolf said of his findings thus far. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goodwolf is no stranger to whistleblowing, and dodged a legal challenge from his own city in September, after he approached the local press with information about a data breach downplayed by municipal officials. Screencaps of the dark web site taken by Goodwolf show that the file folders advertised on the Brain Cipher blog are mostly in archival formats, meaning they contain large amounts of data that have been compressed. Several archives, each multiple gigabytes in size, are labeled PRD, suggesting they include data from production environments, or live software that administrators or service beneficiaries would have interacted with directly. The screencaps also show what appear to be assorted backups, with dates as recent as July and November 2024. A set of folders marked as belonging to UAT, or user acceptance testing, are labeled as masked, meaning the data could be scrambled and not very useful to potential identity thieves. Hackers overtook domain controller Brain Cipher has exhibited little faith in Deloittes security measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets clarify some details right away, Brain Cipher wrote in a Dec. 23 post that changed the ransom pages listed victim from Deloitte UK to the Rhode Island Department of Human Services. The target of the attack was not the state sector, the hackers wrote. The only reason we did this is the fact that the time it took us to penetrate the infrastructure, and in particular to domain controller, was 5 minutes! A domain controller is a server responsible for authenticating access across an entire network. Overtaking a domain controller essentially gives a hacker carte blanche to a systems data. The Brain Cipher ransom post alleges that Deloitte had virtually none of the requisite security measures in place, with NONE written in red text alongside a list of necessities like software and operating system updates. The group first came to prominence with an attack on an Indonesian government data center, and security experts believe the group operates out of the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brain Cipher alleges that the default administrative account for the RIBridges system was secured with an easily cracked password. Plugging the alleged eight-character password achieved by typing the first two number or letter keys moving from top to bottom on the left side of a keyboard into an online password security tool produces an estimate of how long it would take to crack: 1.39 seconds. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A Davenport man is being held in the Scott County Jail after police say he robbed a DoorDash driver during a delivery. According to the criminal complaint, officers from the Davenport Police Department responded to Genesis East Hospital on December 29 at about 9:32 a.m. about a robbery that had just occurred. Officers arrived at the hospital and saw that the victim had a laceration above his right eye and bruising under the same eye. The victim told police he arrived at the residence as a DoorDash driver while delivering an order from the Hy-Vee on East Kimberly Road. Officers learned the order was placed under the defendants girlfriends name. The victim said the DoorDash order included a bottle of Don Julio Tequila and when he arrived at the residence, he asked the defendant, identified as Deangelo Taylor, 32, to provide his ID to verify his age. This is established DoorDash alcohol delivery policy. Deangelo Taylor (Scott County Jail) Taylor then allegedly went back into the apartment, returned holding a black handgun and demanded the victim give him the bottle of tequila. There was a physical altercation and Taylor struck the victim in the face with the pistol before taking the bottle from the victim, who left the apartment building. The victim described the apartment building and Taylor to police. When they arrived at the apartment building, they found Taylor standing in the rear parking lot with his girlfriend. Taylor went inside the apartment and officers tried to make contact to have him leave the building, but he refused. Officers found a Don Julio bottle near the parking lot with mud on it. Taylors girlfriend told officers the bottle was the same from the delivery. Police obtained a search warrant for the apartment and Taylor was found while hiding under the kitchen sink. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police searched the residence and found a black Glock 44 .22 Caliber pistol in Taylors bedroom. He has multiple prior felony convictions in Cook County, Illinois which prevent him from possessing firearms. Taylor admitted to the alternation with the DoorDash driver in a post-Miranda interview and admitted knowing the firearm was in the apartment, the complaint said. Taylor is being held in the Scott County Jail and has been charged with first-degree robbery, possession of a firearm by a felon and interference with a weapon. He has a preliminary hearing on January 9, according to court records. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. Dec. 30A Dayton man who is a convicted sexual offender is facing charges for a third time related to child sexual abuse material. David Christopher Miller, 57, was indicted Monday in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court on a dozen charges of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, all felonies. Miller is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 14. According to the Montgomery County Prosecutor's Office, Dayton police began to investigate Miller after a referral from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The task force said that they believed he had been downloading child sexual abuse material, and police said they found the material on Miller's cellphone and tablet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the prosecutor's office, when the material was found Miller was out on parole for similar activity in 2019. He was arrested on a parole violation, and according to Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction records is currently booked in the Lorain Correctional Institution. Miller is a Tier III sex offender, meaning he must register his address with the sheriff's officer every 90 days for the rest of his life. He was convicted in May 2011 of multiple counts of pandering sexually-oriented matter involving a minor and sentenced to 12 months in prison for each count to be served concurrently, though he was released about halfway through his sentence. Miller also pleaded guilty in 2020 on charges including pandering obscenity involving a minor, pandering sexually-oriented matter involving a minor and illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material. He was sentenced to a total of 30 months in prison for the charges and found a Tier III sex offender. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The DC Circulator bus service ends Tuesday meaning riders will need to find other means of public transportation and drivers will need to find a new job. For 19 years, many Washingtonians have relied on the DC Circulator to get them from point A to point B. Every day Im up here, traveling for self-employment and also to Union Station for meet and greet family members that come visit, Joshua Fletcher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DCs Circulator service rolling to end; riders, bus drivers react But after Tuesday the red buses wont be on D.C. streets anymore. A big loss because now I gotta transfer even sometimes you dont have another way, get on the train, get on the bus, you gotta transfer like two or three buses, Fletcher said. One driver told DC News Now hes starting with Metro in the new year, but not every driver was able to secure a job there. I met a woman today, she has to apply for a job and be on unemployment and shes an elderly woman. Shes been with the company for 17 years, Elijah Drake said. Drake is visiting his brother from New York but hes a transit enthusiast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I sure am, he laughed. Hes spending his remaining time in D.C. riding every route thats still operating. Im riding this because its a moment of somber because I heard how many bus operators are losing their jobs and I just want to just give that last bit of support, Drake said. Metro approves plan to help customers affected by DC Circulator shutdown Metrobus route adjustments have been made to accommodate former Circulator riders which will remain in place through July when the Better Bus Network redesign is launched. The D.C. Council passed a bill at the end of October to use money from selling Circulator buses and equipment to compensate former employees. Mayor Bowser vetoed it, but the Council overrode that veto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) said Monday that she had a great meeting with President-elect Trump. Today, President Trump and I had a great meeting to discuss our shared priorities for the Presidents second term, Bowser wrote in a statement on the social platform X. President Trump and I both want Washington, DC to be the best, most beautiful city in the world and we want the capital city to reflect the strength of our nation. It wasnt Bowser and Trumps first meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2016, Bowser met with Trump at Trump Tower, where they discussed his first transition into the White House, Axios reported. At the time, Bowser said the pair had a wide-ranging conversation about public transportation costs and said Trump was a supporter of the District of Columbia. While the two started on decent terms, their relationship faltered over the years. In 2018, Trump said he was canceling a military parade through D.C., blaming local politicians for the $92 million price tag. Bowser responded to Trumps comment with some sarcasm, claiming to be the local politician who finally got through to the reality star in the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two years later, Trump sharply rebuked Bowser, calling her incompetent after she withdrew military personnel and federal law enforcement from the 2020 George Floyd protests in the city. The then-president said Bowser was constantly coming to the federal government for handouts, and the National Guard had saved her from great embarrassment with the protests. The two sparred over the Black Lives Matter protests across the city. In a letter, Bowser asked Trump to withdraw the law enforcement presence in Washington since protesters were peaceful. Things have appeared to be smoothed over between Bowser and Trump as he prepares to reenter the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her statement Monday, Bowser said she and Trump discussed areas for collaboration between Washingtons local government and the federal government. There are areas for partnership, particularly regarding the citys federal workforce, underutilized federal buildings, parks and green spaces, and infrastructure, she said. I am optimistic that we will continue to find common ground with the President during his second term, and we look forward to supporting a successful inauguration on January 20, Bowsers statement said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Donald Trump has often cast Washington, DC, as an urban hellscape, but the citys mayor, Muriel Bowser, said she had a great meeting with the president-elect on Monday and came away optimistic that we will continue to find common ground. Most Read from Bloomberg During this years presidential campaign, Trump depicted the District of Columbia in dystopian terms. We will take over the horribly run capital of our nation in Washington, DC and clean it up, renovate it, rebuild our capital city so theres no longer a nightmare of murder and crime, he said at a rally in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bowser, a Democrat, said in a statement posted on X that we discussed areas for collaboration between local and federal government, especially around our federal workforce, underutilized federal buildings, parks, and green spaces and infrastructure. She did not say where the meeting took place. Since Trump won the election, proposals by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to slash government spending and employees has generated considerable anxiety in the District and in neighboring Virginia and Maryland, a region where federal spending and government employees have long played a major economic role. Yet one aspect of the Musk-Ramaswamy plan has attracted the enthusiastic support of local business and government leaders a return to office policy after working from home became the norm during the Covid pandemic. Like many big city mayors, Bowser has said seeing government workers back in the office would go a long ways toward helping revive downtown businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. MANILA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A crew member of a Philippine-flagged cargo ship that sank off Northern Samar province has drowned, and one other is still missing, the Philippine Coast Guard (PSG) said Tuesday. Apprentice Seaman John Limuel Ballesta of the PCG Northern Samar station told Xinhua in a telephone interview that the vessel MV Jerlyn Khatness, with 15 crew members, sank in the waters off Lavezares town on Monday. He said the vessel, carrying cement, departed Naga city in Cebu province and was en route to San Jose, Northern Samar, when it was hit by "large waves" in "rough water conditions." Ballesta said 13 crew members have been rescued. The search and rescue operations continue for the missing crew member, he said. A 22-year-old man was shot and killed in an officer-involved shooting in Mercer County early Tuesday Morning. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Mercer County Sheriffs Office was called to help backup Celina officers at Dockside Marathon, 303 S. Main Street, around 3 a.m., according to the sheriffs office. Officers were originally called there for a man with a knife. Deputies arrived on the scene and found 22-year-old Moses Alik. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alik brandished a knife and a Celina officer deployed a taser but it did not stop him, the sheriffs office said. TRENDING STORIES: Cruiser camera video released shows Alik raising the knife above his head and charging toward Deputy Spencer Heinl who shoots Alik multiple times. Alik was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. It was very scary, but Im glad it happened the way it did and officers took care of it the right way, Spencer Chilcoat, of Celina, said. Chilcoat lives a block away from where the shooting happened. As shown on News Center 7 at 6:00, he said his downstairs neighbor posted a message on Facebook that the man tried to break into his home moments before the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chilcoat believes the deputy had no choice. I dont blame them at all. Hes got families to go home to, they all do. You cant be mad at them, he said. They have to protect us all. If they didnt do that, what happens next, you know? The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) confirmed the Mercer County Sheriffs Office requested them to investigate the shooting. Their Special Investigations Unit and Crime Scene Unit have responded to investigate. Deputy Heinl, as a matter of routine, has been placed on paid administrative leave, while BCI completes their investigation. I want to stress, this is not disciplinary leave, this is a normal practice in law enforcement as investigations like this proceed, said Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will continue to update this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Scenes of destruction are pouring in from Peru, as abnormally large surf with some reports calling the waves 13-foot and even tsunami-like slammed the coast on Friday, December 27th. The epicenter of the carnage occurred in the northern region of Peru, some 700 miles from the capital of Lima, including the coastal communities of Lobitos, Mancora, and Cabo Blanco. However, surrounding areas and countries like Ecuador and Chile have also been impacted by what local officials are deeming an extreme [weather] event. Three deaths have been recorded so far. Primarily, local fishermen have been affected by the large swell, with video footage showing large waves plowing through congested ports, capsizing numerous vessels in their path. The oversized swell devastation came just a day after Peru declared an environmental emergency due to an oil spill, which also affected the countrys northern region. Preliminary reports estimate that some 10,000 square meters have been involved in the spill, with crude oil showing up on at least seven beaches, and harming local wildlife. Related: 60 Foot Waves Blast California Coast, Wreak Havoc (Video) In the wake of the back-to-back catastrophes, local Peruvian Sebastian Sulca Cordova told The Independent: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The houses are not damaged, but the boats are. There are boats that are tied together and lost. We are trying to help find and track what is submerged and get the engines out, which is the most important thing. There are entire boats underwater. Yesterday we turned over three boats and took out two engines. Even the water is contaminated with oil and we do what we can and what is within our reach. Officials are urging caution with regards to the dangerous swells through the first days of January. Related: 20 Years Later: Remembering the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami (Photos) A defense lawyer for Alon Alexander offered a long list of house-arrest proposals and any amount of money on Monday in hopes of persuading a Miami federal judge to free him before a looming trial on a string of sex trafficking and rape charges. The judge said he would make a decision on Friday when Oren Alexander, Alons twin brother, is expected to have his own bond hearing. The 37-year old Miami Beach twins and their older brother Tal Alexander all face similar charges based on accusations from women in both Miami Beach and New York going back years. Oren and Tal are high-profile real estate brokers with a long list of celebrity clients and multimillion-dollar deals in both states. Alon works for the familys Miami-based security firm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal prosecutors want the three to remain in federal custody until they are arraigned in New York. U.S. magistrate judge Lissette Reid already denied Tal, 38, bond on Friday Dec. 20. Prosecutors argue that the wealthy brothers are a flight risk and a danger to the community. But defense attorney Howard Srebnick told U.S. Magistrate Judge Eduardo Sanchez that the three brothers and their parents, Shlomy and Orly Alexander, were willing to issue a surety bond of any amount the judge saw fit, house all three brothers in the same home with electronic monitoring and also offered a private security company to ensure the brothers will appear before a judge when the time comes. What weve offered today is, I think, more than anyone in the District has ever offered, Srebnick said. Srebnick assured the judge that the security company they were proposing, V2 Global, had no connection to Kent Security, the firm owned and operated by the Alexander family. Donald DeLucca, who previously served as chief of police for Miami Beach, Golden Glades and Doral and is a shareholder at V2 Global, said the firm was equipped to do this work either in Miami or New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Id authorize a shoot-to-kill if the brothers violate, said Srebnick. But Judge Sanchez clarified that since the security would not be law enforcement, they would not be able to do that. Srebnick even said that the defendants could also be housed in a different location, in a high-rise apartment with no balcony to be rented by the family. Calling the move a hypothetical, Sanchez said he would wait and make a decision on whether to approve the release on bond on Friday. U.S Assistant Attorney Elizabeth Espinosa said no conditions were truly sufficient to ensure the brothers were not a flight risk or a danger to the community. She noted that the brothers, accused of gang raping women since high school had acted with impunity their whole lives. She said the brothers ties to Israel (both parents and Alons wife Shani were born in Israel) also proved he was a flight risk. Srebnick offered to surrender Alons parents, wifes and kids passports to prove that they were not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defense prepared a document with all of the familys assets for review by the judge and federal prosecutor, a record entered under seal from public scrutiny. The full extent of the familys wealth isnt known but a Miami Herald analysis of public records identified residential and commercial properties with an assessed market value of more than $74 million owned by members of the family or companies tied to them, though they still have outstanding mortgages on some of them. The Alexanders had previously pledged $115 million in assets using as collateral the parents Bal Harbour home, the Kent security office building in North Miami and Oren, Tal and Alons homes in Miami Beach in an unsuccessful bid to have Tal Alexander released from federal custody as he awaits trial on sex trafficking charges. Sanchez called the familys measures extraordinary, but said offering up all of their money and assets did not convince him that they werent willing to do whatever is necessary to not face those sentences. As part of any bond deal, Srebnick said the brothers could be housed at any of the brothers or parents waterfront properties, their uncle Gil Neumans home in Broward, or any other home or condominium the judge saw fit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI has identified and interviewed approximately 42 victims and dozens of others had come forward since the brothers arrest, Espinosa told the judge. That case is only getting stronger and stronger as time goes on. Support from family, friends The federal courtroom was completely filled before the hearing started on Monday, with more than 30 family and friends of the defendants present in the courtroom. The room had one side for defense attorneys and family of the defendants and prosecutors and media, but once the defense side filled up other family and friends were seated on the media side. Shani Alexander, Alons wife, and Danielle Epstein, Alons college ex-girlfriend and a close family friend, were both called as character witnesses by the defense. Shani, 28, was born and raised in Israel. She met Alon in 2017 and they were married in 2020. Under questioning, she said she was not aware of any sexual assault by Alon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As both Alon and Oren were being escorted by federal detention agents into the courtroom before the hearing, Shani smiled and gave Oren a wink, but quickly went to a corner where she let out a small cry after seeing him shackled. Epstein, who dated Alon from 2008 until 2011 and remains a close family friend, called him an a very honest man and hardworking. The DeKalb County Police Department got a Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic grant for 2025. The grant, awarded by the Governors Office of Highway Safety, is bringing $149,468 to the department to help it create new strategies to reduce or stop local traffic crashes by aggressive or dangerous driving behaviors. The HEAT program is meant to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities caused by impaired driving and speeding, while also educating the public about traffic safety and the dangers of driving under the influence, as well as increasing overall seatbelt use in the community. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] DeKalb County police said the HEAT grants are used by specialized traffic enforcement units all over Georgia and is used in areas with the highest rates of traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities. Funding for the grants is awarded based on data for impaired driving and speeding in the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the increase in the number of persons killed in traffic crashes in Georgia and across the nation over the last year, the Governors Office of Highway Safety is working with partners like DeKalb County Police Department to implement programs designed to stop the risky driving behaviors that are contributing to a majority of our serious-injury and fatality crashes, Allen Poole, director of the Governors Office of Highway Safety, said. Many of the fatal traffic crashes on our roads are preventable, and we will continue to work with our educational and enforcement partners to develop programs and initiatives that are designed to get Georgia to our goal of zero traffic deaths. TRENDING STORIES: From 2018 to 2022, the most recent data available, GOHS said DeKalb County was the county ranked No. 2 for most traffic fatalities. In 2022, DeKalb County was accountable for 7% of all fatal crashes in the state, topped only by Fulton County. The county saw 126 fatal crashes in 2022, a slight reduction after a spike in 2021 when 145 fatal accidents occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The top 10 counties for crashes in 2022 were: Fulton County - 160 DeKalb County - 126 Cobb County - 69 Gwinnett County - 66 Clayton County - 59 Bibb County - 51 Henry County - 43 Chatham County - 40 Richmond County - 34 Hall County - 32 DeKalb County PD is a partner in the statewide Operation Zero Tolerance DUI campaign as well as the Click It or Ticket seatbelt campaign. Throughout the year in 2025, DKPD will coordinate with GOHS to do mobilizations and year-round waves of high visibility patrols, multi-jurisdictional road checks and sobriety checkpoints. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DELRAY BEACH Delray Beach Fire Chief Ronald Martin on Tuesday issued his first statement regarding a Brightline train collision with a Delray Beach fire truck, pledging that Saturday's incident will be a "turning point a moment from which we will learn and grow." In a statement posted to the Delray Beach Fire Rescue's Facebook page, Martin said Fire Rescue was cooperating with investigators from the Delray Beach Police Department, Brightline and the National Transportation Safety Board to determine the facts of the incident. "We are thankful there were no fatalities and remain committed to working diligently to implement improvements to prevent future incidents," Martin's statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This crash is a sobering reminder that emergency responders must always balance the urgency inherent in their work with caution, ensuring that the safety of our community remains our guiding principle." The Saturday morning crash in downtown Delray Beach left three firefighters and 12 Brightline passengers injured. The firefighters were in stable condition at a local hospital and the passengers were treated for minor injuries, city officials said Saturday. A Delray Beach Fire-Rescue ladder truck lies in ruins Saturday afternoon after a collision with a Brightline train in downtown Delray Beach. "I want to express my deepest gratitude to all those who rushed to assist and care for our injured firefighters," Martin said. "Their selfless and heroic actions were truly remarkable. I would also like to thank Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, who transported passengers from the train to local hospitals." Martin did not provide any more details regarding specifics of the crash. His statement went on to say that the Delray Beach Fire Rescue "remains steadfast" in its commitment to serve and protect the city with "professionalism, resilience and care." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brightline: Video shows Delray fire truck going around gates before collision "As fire chief, I pledge to ensure that this incident becomes a turning point a moment from which we will learn and grow," Martin posted. "The safety, well-being, and trust of our community will remain at the heart of every decision I make. Together, we will strengthen our commitment to excellence and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future." Martin started as Delray Beach's fire rescue chief on October 7. He spent 13 years with the Fort Myers Beach Fire Control District. Sign up for our Post on Delray Beach weekly newsletter, delivered every Thursday! Jasmine Fernandez is a journalist covering Delray Beach and Boca Raton for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at jfernandez@pbpost.com and follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @jasminefernandz. Help support our work. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Delray Beach fire chief issues first statement after Brightline crash Social media users mocked Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) for his word salad explanation about why he is backing House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to continue in the leadership role. Van Drews comments on Fox Business contained contradictions and signs of utter subservience to President-elect Donald Trump, critics said. The congressman who defected from the Democratic Party in 2019 in protest against the first impeachment of Trump and whose Iranian mothership claims earlier this month about drone sightings was swatted down by the Pentagon was asked if he supported Johnsons bid to retain the top House job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump himself has endorsed Johnson to remain in the position. Van Drew said: I am supporting the speaker and let me say, if, you know, I hear from President Donald Trump who I do speak with relatively regularly and I have a relationship with him to the contrary, that would change my mind. He continued: Let me say this, Im a very independent person. So, I get it. I get it. Members of Congress want to express their individual viewpoint. Were a coequal branch of government, etc., etc. But there was a mandate from the people of the United States of America in both the popular vote and the electoral vote to make change. Its time for Republicans to put our big boy pants on, work together and get stuff done, stop acting goofy and focus, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch the latest video at foxbusiness.com Critics, though, were dubious about his very independent claim, given his apparent willingness to ditch his own view if Trump demanded so. Rep. Jeff Van Drew says that he supports Mike Johnson but if Trump tells him not to "that would change my mind," then in the next breath claims "I'm a very independent person." pic.twitter.com/YBGy2w6qNU Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) December 30, 2024 Do any of the republicans have a spine or is the requirement now to be a spineless stooge ??? Linda J Fernandez-Munn (@LindaJMunn1) December 30, 2024 Talk about a lack of self awareness. Timothy Bellman (@Timothy_Bellman) December 30, 2024 Im really beginning to believe in the ignorance of maga. Vicki Andresen (@vandresen433) December 30, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Van Drew is owned by Trump. Dude switched sides during Trump impeachment v1 and he can fuck all the way off Outspoken (@Out5p0ken) December 30, 2024 These people are in a cult. Art Candee (@ArtCandee) December 30, 2024 What a joke. Robbi Fahey (@robbi_fahey) December 30, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related... As the nation gears up for a second Donald Trump presidency, the battle for 2028 has already begun. The president-elect, who has jested numerous times about serving a third term, will not be on the ballot in 2028. I suspect I wont be running again, unless you do something, Trump reportedly told his GOP House colleagues as they met ahead of congressional leadership elections shortly after his election win. Unless you say, Hes so good, we have to just figure it out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately for Trump, its a highly unlikely scenario, and so Republicans and Democrats are already looking to their next candidates and the competition is wide open. Here we take a look at some of the top contenders for the 2028 presidency. JD Vance, Kamala Harris, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Donald Trump Jr have all been tipped to run in 2028 (Getty) JD Vance The incoming vice president and Ohio senator has emerged as one of the front-runners for the top of the Republican ticket. And in simply becoming vice president Vance, 40, has only increased his chances, Politico noted, given the track record of his predecessors who went on to win their partys presidential primaries Joe Biden, Al Gore, George H.W. Bush and Walter Mondale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vances emergence from Hillbilly Elegy author and staunch Trump critic to serving as one of the youngest vice presidents in U.S. history in such a short space of time is no small feat. If you think about where he came from and where he is, at forty years old, conservative analyst Yuval Levin told the New Yorker, J.D. is the single most successful member of his generation in American politics. JD Vance has quickly risen through the Republican ranks (Getty Images) On the campaign trail, Vances rhetoric often came back to haunt him, and he was unable to escape the childless cat lady comment which resurfaced from a 2021 interview. He also peddled harmful rhetoric about migrants, peddling a baseless rumor that Haitians were eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio. But none of this appeared to harm him when voters went to the polls. And his performance in the vice-presidential debate against Tim Walz only reaffirmed the view that he could emerge the victor in the 2028 Republican primary. Kamala Harris While many might assume that the vice presidents defeat this year counts her out of the running next time, those in Harriss inner circle are reportedly divided over her next move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Top aides believe her ability to raise a cool $1 billion in the surprise race should leave her in pole position, according to CNN, whereas others think her best option is to run for California governor in 2026. Despite losing to Trump, there are some in Harriss circle who believe she could run again (Getty Images) The 60-year-olds performance in the presidential debate against Trump was also lauded, and resulted in his refusal to do a second. Whatever the vice president decides to do next, despite the loss to Trump, Harris appears to retain a significant reservoir of devout support, Politico notes, citing a poll that found only 6 percent of voters blame her for the defeat. The outlet cited a second poll which found Harris was the preferred candidate among Democrats for 2028 despite the loss, leading with 41 percent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the outlet added the favorable polls should be met with caution, as early primary presidential polls are mainly about name recognition and the race remains wide open at this stage. Donald Trump Jr Don Jr might not be taking a position within his fathers second administration, but he played a significant role in getting the Republican re-elected. Don Jr, 46, helped cement Vance as Trumps pick for the Republican vice presidential nominee, played a role in brokering close ties with Robert F Kennedy Jr and encouraged his father to embrace cryptocurrencies. He also ensured that only loyalists and ideological true believers are given the top jobs, the outlet added. Don Jr could take up the MAGA reins from his father (REUTERS) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with Time magazine, Trump hinted that his children could carry on the MAGA dynasty. Referring to Don Jr, the president-elect said I think hed do very well, when asked if he might have a future in politics. I think hes a very capable guy, Trump said. Now, after Lara Trump dropped out of running for the Senate, Don Jr is a likely family member to take over the MAGA reins. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez The New York congresswoman has had an impressive political career, winning a seat in the House when she was just 29. Her name has been floated as a potential contender due to her ability to cut through the BS and tell it like it is, a Democratic strategist told The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes somebody who can cut through the noise and doesnt talk like Washington, the strategist added. A former member of Trumps administration has even warned fellow Republicans not to underestimate her. Monica Crowley, a former public affairs official in the Treasury Department during the first Trump administration, said AOC had real grassroots support through her early adoption of social media. With eight million followers on Instagram, one million on TikTok and almost 13 million on X, she has a large national following for a backbencher. AOC has a large social media following and she could engage younger voters (Getty Images) The 35-year-old was also the fourth biggest fundraiser among Democratic House candidates in 2023-2024, Politico noted on its profile of the congresswoman, citing data compiled by OpenSecrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there are some in the party who are concerned about AOC and the progressive squad. She and the squad started pushing too hard, too fast, another strategist told The Hill. D.C. doesnt work that way. And our party doesnt work that way. We need to get back to the basics. Ocasio-Cortez, however, pushed back against the criticism that Democrats need to move away from woke politics. A lot of folks w/ poor campaign fundamentals are now blaming wokism but havent held a town hall or knocked a door all cycle, she said on BlueSky. (FOX40.COM) A man said to be armed with a knife was fatally shot by a Sacramento County Sheriffs deputy on Monday night, according to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. The shooting occurred around 11:20 p.m. in the 9300 block of Wild Lilac Circle, between Elk Grove Florin Road and Bradshaw Road in the eastern area of Sacramento County. Police investigate armed robbery inside Northern California movie theater Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies were called to the home by Metro Fire of Sacramento personnel to assist with a combative man. The sheriffs office said they have a history with the man due to him being on parole for gun charges and having a mental health history. The man became agitated with the deputies and charged them with a knife. One of the deputies, while walking backward, fired a less-than-lethal beanbag round at the man which was ineffective. As the deputy was walking backward they fell and their partner fired their service weapon at least once at the man who was still charging with the knife, according to the sheriffs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was pronounced dead at the scene. No deputies were reported to have been injured during the incident, according to the sheriffs office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating a deadly deputy-involved shooting in Mercer County. According to a release from the Mercer County Sheriffs Office, a deputy headed around 3 a.m. to assist other deputies around a gas station in the 300 block of S. Main Street in Celina. Authorities were reportedly sent in reference to a man with a knife. The sheriffs office claims when the suspect was met with law enforcement, he allegedly showed a knife. That reportedly prompted a Celina police officer to use their taser, but it is reported that it did not disable the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allegedly, the man raised the knife above his head and charged at the deputy, who fired their weapon, which struck the man. The man was taken from the scene to Mercer Health, where he died. He has since been identified as Moses Alik, 22, of Celina. Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey confirmed that the deputy has been placed on paid administrative leave as the investigation continues. I want to stress, this is not disciplinary leave, this is a normal practice in law enforcement as investigations like this proceed, said Grey. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. DES MOINES, Iowa The Des Moines Police Departments speeding cameras will begin issuing citations again on Monday, January 6th, at their DOT-approved speeding camera locations. Here are the locations that will be able to issue citations starting next week: 1800 blk Fleur Dr, NB & SB 300 blk E. McKinley Ave, EB & WB 2800 blk Indianola Ave, EB & WB 1700 blk Park Ave, EB & WB 1600 blk E. University Ave, EB & WB 2200 blk E. 29th St, NB & SB 4800 blk Hickman Rd, EB & WB 1000 blk SE 14th St, NB & SB 2900 blk 6th Ave, NB & SB 3100 blk MLK, Jr Pkwy, NB & SB Sergeant Paul Parizek, a Public Information Officer with the Des Moines Police Department, said that citations have increased in areas where drivers know the cameras are off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do a great job of awareness and letting people know, hey, this is where they are and this is what they do. This is the threshold. So when we see that in certain spots, citations increase where people knew they were off, that awareness is there. And were hoping that when they know now that theyre back on, theyll slow back down, Parizek said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Israel's onslaught on health care and emergency services, crippling humanitarian access and attacks on civilians in Gaza are dismantling the very means of survival, UN humanitarians said on Monday. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) issued the warning after the announcement by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus that following an Israeli raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital of North Gaza and the detention on Friday of its director, Hussam Abu Safiya, the facility closed. On X, formerly known as Twitter, Tedros said that patients in critical condition were taken to the non-functioning Indonesian Hospital. Dr. Safiya's location is unknown and Dr. Tedros called for his immediate release. "Amid ongoing chaos in northern Gaza WHO and partners today (Monday) delivered basic medical and hygiene supplies, food and water to Indonesian Hospital and transferred 10 critical patients to Al-Shifa Hospital," Tedros said. "Four patients were detained during the transfer. We urge Israel to ensure their health care needs and rights are upheld." Tedros said that hospitals have become battlegrounds, and the health system is under severe threat. He reported attacks on Al-Ahli and Al-Wafa Hospitals in Gaza City, both of which were damaged, and called to stop attacks on hospitals and to secure access to health care. OCHA said that on Sunday, it joined the delivery with WHO, the World Food Programme (WFP), the Palestine Red Crescent Society and the UN Department for Safety. The team reported that the hospital has no water, electricity or sanitation. The office said the team's mission to North Gaza was exceptional because most of the 150 mission attempts since October have been denied by the Israeli authorities. Even the few that were initially agreed to faced heavy impediments. It said that between Friday and Sunday, three of four attempts to access the area were denied by Israeli authorities. Only the joint team effort was let through, but it faced significant impediments. "It should not require breaking a siege to help survivors in critical need. Aid workers must be granted safe and unhindered access to assist people wherever they are." OCHA said humanitarian access remains systematically hindered across the Gaza Strip. Since Friday, more than 60 percent of the 42 UN-coordinated movements were denied, interfered with or impeded on the ground. The office said another constraint on delivering aid in Gaza is armed looting of humanitarian relief convoys. Two incidents recorded over the past three days in southern Gaza affected dozens of truckloads of supplies and further exposed drivers to serious risks. Fighting and Israeli restrictions on commercial and other imports also persist. These continue to dangerously paralyze the humanitarian operation when families urgently need more food, shelter materials, and clothing to survive winter weather. DeSoto Countys district attorney is sending out his legislative priorities for the new year. Some of those items include banning social media for those 13 and under, a new crime lab in DeSoto County and the creation of what he calls the Mississippi Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program. D.A. Matthew Barton says this list is essentially a wish list saying these are the items are about enhancing public safety while also protecting a growing county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are investing millions of tax dollars into convention centers, arenas, and infrastructure in DeSoto County, which are great for the economic attractiveness of our area, said District Attorney Barton. However, if we dont ensure public safety keeps pace with these investments, we risk creating the next Mall of Memphis or Whitehaven, where crime will ultimately undermine these developments. Barton says with the county being the third-largest in Mississippi and growing, it is time to make sure some $200 million worth of investments are protected. One priority is gathering funding for a crime lab in DeSoto County. Barton says this is a proposal to assist local leaders in creating a lab that aims to share the costs between the county and cities in northwest Mississippi. This metro crime lab would help reduce the backlog of cases and prevent some cases from reaching the statute of limitations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another item is the creation of a state illegal alien-certified bounty program. Barton says this program is similar to Crimestoppers, and will allow tips to come in for any illegal immigrants that may need to come in. He says this is all in preparation for President-elect Trumps initiative of reducing the number of undocumented or illegal immigrants. I think that this could be a state-wide program that would really help, Barton said. I talked to ICE a few times and you know, they just have, they only have so many people you know working for ICE and the federal government. When you get the citizens involved in a way that is safe it just speeds things along. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Increasing likelihood of an Arctic blast next week; lows may drop to single digits Barton said the county needs to protect investments like convention centers, arenas and infrastructure in DeSoto County. He clarified that he still has love and respect for the Bluff City. If you ask the business owners there, which I do, they are going to tell you they are not happy with the way Memphis has dealt with crime historically. Memphis deserves better, quite frankly, than the inadequacies theyve been having with public safety. My whole point is if we dont do more while we are building DeSoto County up its just going to look like a mirror reflection of the failures Memphis has had. The full list of proposed legislative priorities from Barton: 1. Redefine Burglary Tools to Include Auto Programmers With rising auto burglaries in counties near Memphis, the District Attorneys Office is proposing a legislative change to explicitly include auto programmers as burglary tools under Mississippi law, empowering law enforcement to better address the emerging issue of grand theft auto in DeSoto County and elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2. Establishment of a Law Enforcement Training Academy in DeSoto County A proposal for a dedicated law enforcement training academy in DeSoto County to reduce training costs for municipalities and enhance recruitment efforts, improving the quality of policing across Mississippis third-largest county. 3. Introduce Legislation for Harsher Penalties in Extreme Cases of Human Torture A proposal to protect victims from acts of extreme cruelty, which would carry a minimum 30-year sentence and the possibility of life in prison. 4. Creation of the Mississippi Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program The Office is proposing a program to certify licensed bail bond agents as bounty hunters focused on locating undocumented immigrants. This program would streamline enforcement of federal immigration priorities with the incoming administration. 5. Transfer the Authority to Determine the Method of Execution A proposal to transfer the authority to determine execution methods from the Department of Corrections to a jury, judge or board, ensuring that executions of death-row inmates are carried out in a more cost-effective and fair manner for victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6. Legislation that Bans Social Media Accounts for Minors In response to growing concerns about social medias negative impact on children, D.A. Barton proposes a bill that would ban minors under 13 from having social media accounts, aiming to protect them from online exploitation, cyberbullying, and mental health risks. 7. Preventing a Judicial Bottleneck by Adding Judges in DeSoto County DeSoto County, one of the fastest-growing counties in Mississippi, is facing a critical shortage of circuit and chancery judges. The growing caseload has created a bottleneck, which prevents timely prosecution of cases. Without additional judges and prosecutors, the courts will struggle to advance, and justice will be delayed. D.A. Barton is urging the legislature to address this issue during judicial redistricting this year, advocating for more judges and prosecutors to keep the judicial system moving forward. 8. Metro DeSoto Crime Lab Funding A proposal to assist local leaders in funding a crime lab in Northwest Mississippi that aims to share the costs between the county and cities. This metro crime lab well help reduce the backlog of cases and prevent some cases from reaching statute of limitations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) The Mobile Police Department and City of Mobile Animal Control are still searching for the person believed to have thrown two puppies from the Dog River Bridge over the weekend. Saraland man arrested after accidentally firing gun during altercation: Mobile police News 5 received calls from viewers about the incident after 3:30 p.m., Saturday. Witnesses said the driver of a black SUV pulled over, turned on their hazard lights, and threw the puppies into the cold waters of Dog River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MPD officials said from the top of the bridge to the water is approximately 75 feet down. Wade Lynch said he was at the River Shack along Dog River when the incident occurred. Lynch told News 5 that witnesses on the back deck of River Shack saw the dogs thrown off a ledge on the bridge. He said several people immediately went out in kayaks to save the dogs. The first one hit the water and swam to the bank immediately, said Lynch. The second one hit the water and was swimming back and forth. Lynch said that the second dog eventually got onto the riverbank before rescue crews arrived. Mobile Police to ramp up New Years security after a violent past 2 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If anybody has any clue who did this, we need to know because this is ridiculous. If theyll do that to two dogs, theyll do it to their kids or anything else, Lynch said. Courtesy: Daphne Search and Rescue Courtesy: Daphne Search and Rescue After the dogs made it to the riverbank, both Mobile Police Department and Daphne Search and Rescue recovered the two puppies. Corporal Paul Lee with MPD Homeland Security was one of the men who helped get the dogs back to safety. Its just trying to get over there on the scene so we can actually, hopefully, help the dogs and recover, rescue the dogs, to make sure they were safe, Corporal Lee said about the rescue. Then we can continue our investigation at hand. So initially, its just getting on scene and helping out where we can and getting the job done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The puppies were then placed in the care of Animal Services and are now at a foster home. Inmate injured in fight at Mobile County Metro Jail: MCSO City of Mobile Animal Control Supervisor, Michael Crabtree, released a statement in regard to the active investigation: At this time, the City of Mobile Animal Services Department has opened an investigation regarding this incident. The two puppies that were thrown from the bridge are in good health and currently under foster care. If anyone witnessed this incident firsthand or has any pertinent information regarding these dogs, where they came from, who they belonged to, or who may have been responsible for this incident, please call Animal Control at 251-208-2807. Leave your information and our investigator will get back in touch with you as soon as possible. Michael Crabtree, Animal Control Supervisor Corporal Lee said that people who cannot care for their pets can place them in the care of Animal Control or county services in order to prevent incidents like this from happening again. A lot of dogs in the area, people who find out they can no longer house a dog, Lee said. We encourage them to contact City Mobile Animal Services where they can relinquish the dog to them or the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atlanta man, woman arrested on fraud, drug charges in Santa Rosa County: sheriffs office MPD officials said that the suspect will face animal cruelty charges, which could be a felony charge in Alabama. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. The global logistics landscape over the past year has been characterized by the industrys perpetual need to adapt to longer transit times at sea and a constant threat (and sometimes execution) of labor stoppages at global ports. Out on the oceans, 2024s biggest recurring issue can be traced back to last November, when Yemen-based Houthi rebels hijacked the Galaxy Leader commercial ship in the Red Sea. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since that incident, the Houthis have launched missile and drone attacks on ships passing through the waterway all throughout 2024forcing major container shipping lines including Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM to suspend most of their transits through the waterway and the Suez Canal. According to container shipping consultancy Clarksons Research, 22 percent of global seaborne container trade traditionally transits through the Suez Canal. But much of that number has since shifted its way around the southern tip of Africas Cape of Good Hope, which is now the preferred route of the ocean carriers on East-to-West shipping routes. That mass diversion often can result in longer shipping routes anywhere from one-to-three weeks. While the Suez Canal saw 75.4 daily transits on average on Nov. 18, 2023, the day before the Galaxy Leader hijacking, that average sunk to just 33.1 transits on Oct. 17, 2024, according to data from UN Trade and Development. The canal itself took a monumental financial hit throughout the year due to the slowdown in traffic, with revenues plummeting 60 percent. Some in the apparel industryparticularly those in Europehad to adapt to the rerouting earlier this year. For example, Adidas said in March that it had been experiencing two-to-three-week delays due to the rerouting, while Zara parent Inditex acknowledged one-week delays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skechers noted in July that the supply chain disruptions and shipping delays from the crisis forced the footwear brand to shift more deliveries into the second half of 2024. Most recently, womens specialty retailer J.Jill said one-week interruptions remain the norm, thus making the company order earlier to offset the delays. Of all the impacts on importers, the longer routes and decreasing capacity as the crisis lingered resulted in higher freight costs. Retailers including Abercrombie & Fitch, Levi Strauss & Co. and Guess have all cited increasing rates and a subsequent pressure on margins due to the mass reroutings. Red Sea diversions are still the biggest contributor to rates that remain at least double their level a year ago, said Judah Levine, head of research at Freightos, in a December freight update. As of Dec. 19, ocean freight rates were $3,803 per 20-foot equivalent (TEU), soaring 129 percent from the year prior, according to Drewrys World Container Index (WCI). These freight rates peaked as high as $5,927 per TEU on July 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a conversation during the SJ Fall Summit in November, Thomas Kempf, senior director of global air freight for Flexport, said the Red Sea crisis has essentially been baked into the current impacts on the logistics industry. Its baked into rates; its baked into transit time, selling schedules, all of that, Kempf said. Unfortunately, it appears the diversions of the Red Sea will appear to be the norm throughout 2025, with Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd already prepping their Gemini Cooperation alliance to move shipments via the Cape of Good Hope. Japan-based Ocean Network Express (ONE) isnt taking any chances with a Red Sea return either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There seems to be no political breakthrough, we cant put the vessels, the cargo, the crew at risk, said ONE CEO Jeremy Nixon in a September panel. The supply chain has adapted and, thats going to be business as normal. Calamity at global ports dominates 2024 As the Red Sea situation played out, brands also had to follow along with constant holdups at ports both at home and abroad throughout 2024. Work stoppages, strike threats, natural disasters, government overhauls and IT outages were just a few of the many scenarios giving shippers concern throughout the year. Through the summer and early fall, companies imported more goods into the U.S. earlier ahead of a potential labor strike of 45,000 dockworkers at the East and Gulf Coast ports. Goetz Alebrand, head of ocean freight Americas at DHL Global Forwarding, told Sourcing Journal in late May that the industry was experiencing a peak season at a moment where its not supposed to happen due to the influx of cargo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After more than a year of being unable to reach a contract agreement with its employers, the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), the International Longshoremens Association (ILA) went on strike for three days from Oct. 1-3. The union went back to work after the third day upon reaching a tentative deal on wages, but it took two-to-three weeks for ports like New York and New Jersey, Charleston and Savannah to clear out the container backlog that had piled up as ships awaited outside the hubs. The additional costs from [pre-strike] mitigation efforts as well as post-strike resumption are still being felt, said a letter to ILA president Harold Daggett and USMX chairman and CEO David Adam in early December from a National Retail Federation (NRF)-led coalition. One mass merchant, Target, had higher-than-expected supply chain costs and more inventory that normal after the strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In order to protect our in-stocks and ensure were ready for Q4, our team changed the timing of certain shipments and directed a portion of our receipts to other ports on the West Coast, said CEO Brian Cornell during a November earnings call. While the return to work temporarily paused concerns of a long-term labor stoppage, the state of the East and Gulf Coast ports remains up in the air for 2025. Both parties are still fighting heavily on automation, with the ILAs current contract extension set to expire Jan 15. If a new deal isnt made before then, the ILA would go back on strike. North of the border, major ports in Canada endured work stoppages of their own in the form of lockouts just weeks after the U.S. strike, both in British Columbias Vancouver and Prince Rupert ports and in Quebecs Montreal and Quebec ports. The twin labor lockouts were sent to arbitration by the Canadian government after contract talks across the unions and their respective maritime employers hit a total impasse. When the back-to-work order was issued on Nov. 12, container shipments entering Montreal were at a standstill with all its terminals closed, while vessels piled up amid delays in the Ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the disruptions affected port activity that handled roughly $1.2 billion Canadian dollars ($860 million) of goods per day. Strike action also took place in Germany, where are series of daylong warning strikes disrupted several ports during the summer over wages for 11,500 union dockworkers. Impacted ports included Hamburg, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Wilhelmshaven, Emden and Brake. That wage dispute between the German trade union Ver.di and the Central Association of German Seaport Companies (ZDS) was settled in early September after five rounds of negotiations. The new collective agreement will last through July 31, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The simple threat of a strike, such as that in India, dealt shippers plenty of uncertainty when looking to enter and exit the countrys 12 state-owned ports. An indefinite strike that would have taken place Dec. 17 was called off when Indias government pushed union employers to implement revised contract conditions including wage adjustments and pension benefits that had been initially agreed to in the late summer. Those assurances had not been met since a new deal for 18,000 dockworkers was first reached in August. That work stoppage would have cost Indian exporters nearly $15 million daily, according to The Hindu Business Line. Not all port problems in 2024 have come because of labor negotiations. Top global hubs in China and Southeast Asia like Singapore, Shanghai, Ningbo and Kelang have experienced lengthy congestion periods throughout the year as a knock-on effect of the later deliveries impacted by the Red Sea crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in Bangladesh, the nationwide protests over the summer that resulted in the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas government ended up forcing Chattogram Port to close for six days in June. The closure created a ripple effect as trucks and vessels alike piled up outside the hub, and containers across terminals were unable to be moved. At one point in August, average berthing delays rose to seven to 10 days, while loading and unloading times had doubled at vessels docked at the port. Chattogram Port, Bangladeshs largest seaport, endured a brief two-day strike to close out December after seven ship crew members were murdered onboard a vessel headed to the port. Port snags dont always have to be localized to one region even if one incident is the catalyst, retailers and brands have come to realize. A global IT outage grounded thousands of flights worldwide in July, temporarily disrupting the international flow of air cargo and briefly disrupting activity at the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Houston. Houston had to close its two container terminals for multiple hours in the morning after the outage took place. Similarly, the U.K.s Port of Felixstowe had been disrupted, with truckers unable to enter its terminals for a brief period, while rail operations were momentarily shuttered. Dec. 30Attorneys for First Judicial District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies say a new and inexperienced spokesperson in her office not the DA herself posted politically partisan messages on the agency's official Facebook page on Election Day. The statement came in response to a complaint submitted in November to the State Ethics Commission accusing Carmack-Altwies of using her office's social media account for political purposes, in violation of state law. The response also says the complaint, filed by former state worker and union leader Arcy Baca, is "frivolous, unsubstantiated, or not supported by probable cause," and asks the Ethics Commission to dismiss it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carmack-Altwies' attorneys also question whether the Ethics Commission has jurisdiction to handle the complaint, arguing in part the commission has jurisdiction over individuals but not agencies. Because the district attorney did not personally post the political messages and ordered them deleted from the Facebook account she should be absolved of any liability, the response states. According to the response, District Attorney's Office spokesperson Catherine Lynch posted messages on social media on Election Day promoting Democratic candidates, including Carmack-Altwies and Vice President Kamala Harris. Carmack-Alwies ran unopposed for a second term in the general election after beating her predecessor, Marco Serna, in the Democratic primary. "The story was posted for about two hours before DA Carmack-Altwies saw it and ordered Ms. Lynch to immediately delete it," says the response, filed earlier this month by attorneys Alfred A. Park and Celina C. Hoffman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Facebook story ... reached a total engagement of nine people and had zero reactions by any member of the public," the response states, adding it was posted "by mistake by Ms. Lynch." "Having only been in the government position for about a month prior to this incident, Ms. Lynch was still learning about her job duties and what a government position entails. DA Carmack-Altwies has worked to ensure that Ms. Lynch has adequate training and knowledge regarding the [Governmental Conduct Act] and has appropriate guidance as to how to appropriately utilize the DA's Facebook page," it continues. Baca said in an interview Monday he's not surprised by the agency's response to his complaint. "I knew she was going to say it was frivolous and I knew she was going to blame someone else," Baca said. "That's her MO. She doesn't take responsibility for anything." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynch did not respond to an email Monday seeking details about the training she's received since the incident and the source of funding and rate of pay for the attorneys representing Carmack-Altwies in the case. The State Ethics Commission has the authority to initiate civil action in state District Court or refer cases to the attorney general or district attorney to initiate civil action, according to state statute. The commission can also issue a temporary or permanent injunction or restraining order and level civil penalties of $250 per violation; the penalties cannot exceed $5,000. This is the second time Carmack-Alwies has come under fire in connection with her Facebook account. In 2022, the District Attorney's Office agreed to pay $25,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by a man who said he was blocked from her office's Facebook page in violation of his right to free speech. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Mahoning County Commissioner Dave Ditzler received an emotional sendoff as he sat in on his final meeting before leaving office on Monday. Ditzler greeted the standing-room-only crowd for his final meeting and recalled the words he heard more than three decades ago that pushed him into politics. If you think you can do a better job, run for office and fix it yourself. So, I did, Ditzler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After 19 years as a Trustee in Austintown and 12 more as Commissioner, Ditzler told the crowd his philosophy never changed. We are the ground level, helping people, our neighbors. You know, nobody ever cared if I was a Democrat or a Republican. You know, they said fix my flooding, Ditzler said. One at a time, county officeholders and staff took their turns thanking Ditzler for his help over the years. For their part, his colleagues presented Ditlzer with a framed collection of photos highlighting his time as commissioner and their accomplishments together. Its been 31 years that I have worked on a board of three, Ditzler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it was their turn to speak, the other two members of the board admitted they didnt always see eye to eye on every issue, but in the end, they worked as a team. Not for he or Anthony or myself, but for 265,000 people in Mahoning County, and thats what happened, said Mahoning County Commissioner Carol Righetti. And thats all I ever wanted to work with in this position was somebody there that had a good heart, said Mahoning County Commissioner Anthony Traficanti. In the end, Ditzler says that was the job he signed up for all those years ago. Youve got to make sure you embrace each other and communicate. You do the right thing and work on behalf of the people youre servicing, Ditzler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Dec. 30DIXON Some Dixon residents say they are concerned about restrictions on reproductive healthcare services as the former KSB Hospital undergoes a merger with OSF HealthCare. The hospital's partnership with OSF was made official May 10, when the two organizations announced in a news release that they'd signed a term sheet and expected a full merger. [ Dixon's KSB Hospital, OSF HealthCare enter official partnership, anticipating full merger ] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OSF will officially take over operations Wednesday, Jan. 1. KSB will be renamed OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center, becoming the 17th hospital in the OSF ministry. Although its merger with OSF comes with a significant amount of funding, a total of $40 million something that KSB desperately needs to keep its doors open it also comes with significant changes to policies. As a Catholic healthcare organization, OSF abides by the directives set forth in the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Service. After Jan. 1, OSF Saint Katharine will abide by them as well, Paul Acro, media coordinator at OSF HealthCare, said in an interview with Shaw Local. ExpandAutoplay Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Image 1 of 5 Alex Hartman (left) and Scott Coots work to remove the signage of the former KSB Hospital Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, in Dixon. Changing of all the signs on the campus is expected to take a few months. (Alex T. Paschal) Within those directives, Sarah Schlegel, president of PFLAG Sauk Valley in Sterling, pointed out many limitations to healthcare services that "terrify" her "for a whole host of reasons," Schlegel wrote in a letter to Shaw Local. "It's too bad we're going to have some restricted services due to OSF being Catholic," Linda Wegner of Dixon said in an interview with Shaw Local. "I am especially concerned about women's reproductive care. There's going to be some services for some people that they're not going to be able to get." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You almost have to ask ahead of time what services they do or do not provide before you get started with a doctor here because you wouldn't want to get into it and waste his time, her time, or your time and money and then have to go somewhere else," Wegner said. Terminating a pregnancy One of Schlegel's concerns is the hospital's limitations around performing medical and surgical abortions. The ERD defines "abortion" as the "directly intended termination of pregnancy before viability or the directly intended destruction of a viable fetus," according to the booklet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Abortion is never permitted," directive No. 45 says. In an email interview with OSF HealthCare, the organization said, "in Catholic health care, respect for human life and dignity prevents us from participating in directly intended abortion. We provide medically indicated treatment for women experiencing serious health issues, ectopic pregnancies or miscarriages to save the woman's life and preserve her health." Medical birth control and contraceptive practices Schlegel also pointed out that Catholic healthcare organizations are also limited in the methods they can offer to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wegner said she was concerned that the hospital wouldn't perform "something as simple as a tubal ligation" which is a surgical procedure for women that permanently prevents pregnancy. "If a person wants to have a baby and have that procedure, they wouldn't be able to give birth here because who wants to go back and do it again? Nobody wants to have their last baby and then have to go somewhere else and do surgery again. It's just easy to take care of it at the same time," Wegner said. "Catholic health institutions may not promote or condone contraceptive practices," according to ERD directive No. 52. That includes medical birth control methods like taking prescribed medication, getting an implantation and procedures including a tubal ligation and a vasectomy, according to directives 52 and 53. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, "Catholic health care supports reliable, fertility awareness-based methods of family planning rather than sterilization to prevent pregnancy. We offer modern, evidence-based methods," OSF HealthCare said. Those types of methods involve monitoring a woman's physical signs throughout her menstrual cycle to determine when ovulation is occurring to prevent pregnancy. Infertility treatment and alternatives On the other hand, woman who are struggling to get pregnant also have limited options, Schlegel wrote. The ERD says on page 16, "reproductive technologies that substitute for the marriage act are not consistent with human dignity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes the use of a surrogate mother; heterologous fertilization, a method of assisted reproduction where genetic material from a third-party donor is used to achieve pregnancy; and any method that attempts to achieve pregnancy through extracorporeal conception, which refers to the process of fertilization happening outside of the body, including homologous artificial fertilization which uses the genetic material from the couple, according to directives 40, 41 and 42. Instead, OSF Saint Katharine will offer fertility care through the Creighton Model FertilityCare System, which tracks reproductive health issues and Natural Procreative Technology used to treat them. The technology "monitors and maintains a woman's gynecologic and reproductive health and offers medical and surgical treatments that cooperate completely with the reproductive system," OSF HealthCare said. "This approach helps to restore health and function so that conception can occur within its natural context. The methods used respect the life and dignity of the spouses and any children conceived," OSF HealthCare said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other options for healthcare in Dixon "I think the lack of options is concerning," Wegner said. "I was born and raised Catholic, but I just think it shouldn't enter into people getting services, especially in a rural community where we don't have a lot of choices, unless we drive and go to another hospital." "We all want to attract new young families here to Dixon, but these restricted policies could deter that as well," Wegner said. One alternative could be CGH Medical Center, which is mainly located in Sterling, but provides women's healthcare services, along with many others, at its Dixon location on North Galena Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Dixon clinic can offer all forms of birth control to those who are an established patient and perform outpatient birth control procedures like implantable birth control and intrauterine devices or IUDs, Vanessa Simonton, director of OB/GYN service line at CGH, said in an interview with Shaw Local. However, tubal ligations and vasectomies are only performed at its locations in Sterling, according to Simonton. Providers at the Dixon clinic will also assist with fertility treatments and will provide prenatal care for surrogate pregnancies. However, patients may be referred to a specialized fertility center if more in-depth care is required, Simonton said. Following conception, all prenatal care, including ultrasound, can be done at the Dixon clinic, but patients can only give birth at the medical center in Sterling, Simonton said. As for terminating a pregnancy, it "is only performed in emergent situations, such as an ectopic pregnancy where the mother's life is at risk," Simonton said. OSF HealthCare officials says patients should feel free to discuss any health concerns or questions with their healthcare professionals at OSF. "Our physicians and advance practice providers are committed to helping patients make informed decisions, which entails discussing the range of options available to patients, as well as expected benefits, risks, burdens, and any potential side effects," OSF HealthCare said. WHEATON, Md. (DC News Now) A state and federal investigation into some DMV car dealerships accused of overcharging people in some cases by thousands of dollars has led to charges against Lindsay Automotive Group. A new case brought forward by the Federal Trade Commission and Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown alleges a few Lindsay car dealerships have systematically deceived and overcharged buyers. Auto dealers need to be honest and transparent with their customers, Brown told DC News Now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodbridge couple charged for pilfering Pokemon cards from Target in Stafford County At least three locations Lindsay Ford of Wheaton, Lindsay Chrysler Dodge-Jeep-Ram and Lindsay Chevrolet of Woodbridge are named in the complaint. What weve heard is a number of stories where Lindsay advertises vehicles and low prices and the prices werent real, Brown said. They added surprise fees that werent disclosed. The complaint says a sample of Lindsay transactions between 2020 and 2023 showed 88% of customers paid more than the advertised price, most paying over $2,000 more. The goal is for us to recover money on behalf of consumers and get that money back to consumers. [The] goal is to get Lindsay in compliance with the law, Brown said. They should not be advertising fake prices. They should not be hiding fees or forcing customers into extra purchases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, a Lindsay Automotive Group spokesperson denied the allegations, sending the following statement to DC News Now: Lindsay Automotive Group (LAG) is a local and family-owned group that has provided affordable, and reliable vehicle purchasing options to the DC metro community for over 60 years. As a responsible company, we are committed to fully complying with the law and providing excellent customer service. You can rest assured that our focus remains where it has always been on providing the absolute best option for our customers and on serving the community in a manner that would make all of our employees, customers, and partners proud. We strongly refute any suggestion of improper conduct and will work to resolve this matter through the legal process. Lindsay Automotive Group Brown encouraged all car buyers to get a detailed list of all costs upfront and review it carefully. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. For the past 14 months, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya has faced Israels war on Gazas health care system head-on, documenting to the world his fight as a physician to treat patients and keep his hospital in the north afloat despite constant bombardment, depleted humanitarian aid, a painful shrapnel injury and the killing of his own son. On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces arrested him. After nearly three months of daily Israeli attacks, soldiers stormed Kamal Adwan Hospital, killing dozens of people and detaining more than 240 others, including patients and medics. Captives were forced to strip and wait outside in winter temperatures before soldiers took them to Israeli prisons and interrogation centers, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among them was Abu Safiya, a pediatrician and hospital director and Gazas lead physician for the U.S.-based medical aid group MedGlobal. Dr. Mohammed Braika Shares Update on Dr. Hussam Abu Safiyas Detention. We urgently call for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Abu Safiya. pic.twitter.com/O56M6PhF8j MedGlobal (@MedGlobalOrg) December 30, 2024 Kamal Adwan was the last functioning hospital in North Gaza, as Israel continues to wall the region off from the rest of the Palestinian territory and from any kind of outside humanitarian assistance. Still, despite the resulting lack of resources and the increasing casualties, Abu Safiya managed to keep the hospital in Beit Lahia at least partially running expanding its bed capacity from 120 to 200, and regularly posting updates online to show the world what Kamal Adwan, its patients and its staff were enduring at the hands of the Israeli military. I think its important to have voices like him, because sometimes were buried by numbers you know, more than 1,000 medical professionals in Gaza were killed, Dr. Zaher Sahloul, president of MedGlobal, told HuffPost on Monday. Numbers mean something to maybe people who follow statistics, but for an average person they need to know who are these people. He was the face of the medical community in Gaza, and the face of being a doctor, a humanitarian, [a] compassionate person who cares about having ventilators to his patients, and incubators to his neonatal intensive care unit, and medicine to the patients who have chronic diseases, Sahloul continued. And he showed that day after day after day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IDF spokesman Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani said Saturday that Abu Safiya is a suspect in what he described as potential involvement in terrorist activity, though he did not offer details. In the nearly 15 months since the October 2023 terrorist attack by Hamas, Israeli forces have attempted to justify harming doctors and patients and bombing medical facilities by claiming without evidence that Hamas militants operate in hospitals an accusation that, even if true, would still not allow such attacks in the eyes of international humanitarian law. The IDF entered the hospital over the past year four times, and they interrogated [Abu Safiya] four times, and they searched every place in the hospital. So if theres anything that could have been suspicious, they would have found it a long time ago, Sahloul said. So all of these talks about being [a] Hamas center and things like that is nonsense. No one believes these things anymore. Despite soldiers telling Abu Safiya that he was free to leave, the doctor reportedly refused to abandon his medical team at the hospital. Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya (center), director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, supervises the treatment of a Palestinian man who was injured in an Israeli strike on Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip on Nov. 21, 2024. AFP via Getty Images He took all of us and wanted to get us out at night, but they yelled at him and arrested him, nurse Waleed Al-Boudi told Middle East Eye, adding that Abu Safiya was taken captive at Al-Fakhoura School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli army footage of the arrest shows what appears to be the last time Abu Safiya was seen before his detention, with soldiers shaking his hand, addressing him as Doctor and having him enter their tank with them. Abu Safiya, still wearing his white coat, can be seen telling the soldiers that there is no one left inside Kamal Adwan Hospital. Sahloul said the IDF would not confirm Abu Safiyas whereabouts with MedGlobal, but that family and eyewitnesses said he was in Ofer prison with dozens of fellow medical workers before getting transferred to the notoriously brutal Sde Teiman prison. HuffPost could not independently verify Abu Safiyas location. Witnesses, some of them prisoners who have since been released, said the doctor showed signs of having undergone torture and beatings testimony that dovetails with previous extensive reporting on the conditions and inhumane treatment that prisoners, including health care workers, face at alleged torture camps like Sde Teiman. Today, while he is being forced to stay in the Israeli Sde Teiman detention camp, known for its brutality against the prisoners imprisoned there, the doctors son, Idris Abu Safiya, said in a video Monday. We have received testimonies from released detainees confirming he was subjected to humiliation and abuse, including forcing him to undress and using him as a human shield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We call upon all international institutions and human rights organizations... and every person of living conscience and all doctors in the world to take urgent and immediate action to pressure the occupation authorities to release my father, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, before he meets the fate of many doctors and medical workers, Idris Abu Safiya said. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators hold a vigil in London's Piccadilly Circus in response to Israel's destruction of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, on Dec. 28, 2024. Kristian Buus/In Pictures via Getty Images Groups like the World Health Organization, Amnesty International and the Council on American-Islamic Relations have demanded that Israeli forces release Abu Safiya from captivity and stop targeting Gazas hospitals and health care workers. Sahloul said that he and Abu Safiyas family have asked U.S. President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President-elect Donald Trump to pressure the Israeli government to release the hospital director and his colleagues. The State Department is aware of reports and still gathering information, a spokesperson told HuffPost on Monday, adding that claims of Hamas operating in hospitals present Israel with an unusual burden but that Israel should do more to curb civilian casualties. The agency did not say whether it would pressure Israel to release Abu Safiya. As we have said before, we do not want to see firefights in hospitals where innocent people and patients receiving medical care are caught in the crossfire, and we have had active consultations with the Israeli Defense Forces on this, the spokesperson said. We call on all parties of the conflict to respect the protected status of these facilities and to avoid harm to civilians receiving treatment and humanitarian workers providing that care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HuffPost published a report in October detailing how the Israeli military is ensuring the long-term decimation of the Palestinian people by targeting Gazas health care system, preventing people from receiving treatment for the malnutrition and diseases that result from mass displacement and destroyed sanitation infrastructure. Amid the ongoing destruction, Abu Safiya had become one of the last doctors in northern Gaza and the voice of the territorys medical community. He told me one time that he will provide the same care to an injured Israeli soldier, similar to a Palestinian child who ended up in his hospital, Sahloul said. He is the essence of being a physician and humanitarian, and he deserves to have the Nobel Peace Prize. Not to be detained and injured. Related... Dec. 30If snow is predicted to fall, starting the night before and again at almost 4 a.m., Cumberland County's Director of Schools William Stepp and his team take to the roads to inspect its conditions for the safety of the students. This is just one of the steps Stepp and his team take to ensure and maintain the safety of the students when inclement weather occurs in Cumberland County. Inclement weather is described as snow, ice, hurricanes, flooding, heavy winds and extreme cold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cumberland County Schools have 13 days built into its annual calendar to account for inclement weather days. Schools are required by state law to maintain 180 days for school instruction, according to Tennessee Code Annotated 49-6-3004. According to the Tennessee State Board of Education website, "The State Board of Education sets the required number of school days each year, the number of hours in a school day, and how local districts may alter their calendars to stockpile inclement weather days." Stepp stated that many factors influence the decision to close the schools for inclement weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Road condition Roads are necessary for all students to attend school, whether arriving via school bus or as car riders. Stepp describes what he and his team do when they notice there might be snow. "We still [are] up early about 4 a.m. and we're all driving roads looking at stuff," said Stepp. Stepp considers the safety of the buses traveling to and from the schools an important factor in his decision to close the schools for inclement and hazardous weather. Stepp partners with Emergency Management Agency and the Transportation Department head, Kathleen Martin who accompany him as they drive the roads of Cumberland County looking for places that may be unsafe to travel to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to driving the roads, Stepp's team also collects reports from residents. "We combine all that information and that all comes to me and we end up on a conference call," said Stepp. National Weather Service The Cumberland County School system watches the National Weather Service as its source for weather information. "If we get wind gusts, at a certain number, my transportation supervisor, Ms. [Kathleen] Martin, will give me a call and say 'I have a lot of concerns,'" said Stepp. Stepp said that when they consult the National Weather Service, they are looking for elements to confirm information such as high wind gusts that would affect students traveling via school bus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Then that all culminates coming back to me, and I have to make a decision," said Stepp. Informing parents and the public Stepp said that Cumberland County School primarily uses automated telephone calls, Facebook and Twitter as their avenue to release information to parents for inclement weather. "I'll record my message during that time and then that message is [set at a time] that I give and that means the principals and everybody shares their information at that time," said Stepp. "We try not to do it before that time. We want it all to go out at the same time so everybody gets the same message." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stepp's team also pushes out the school closing information to local news sources such as the television station, newspaper and radio for further release. Making the decision The decision to close school for a snow day ultimately falls on Stepp. He said he uses information from the road conditions and the National Weather Service to guide his decision. "The reason I have to do it so early in Cumberland County [is because] my counterparts in the Upper Cumberland usually have buses running about 6 a.m.," said Stepp. "I have buses, Pine View buses running at 5, 5:15, [and] 5:30. So I have to make the call before other directors actually have to make the call if we wait till the day of. But most of the time, I try not to wait till the day of." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Stepp closed the school for the first time in December 2024, he cited multiple accidents on I-40 as a contributing factor to deciding to close. Stepp said he prefers to let parents know the night before to allow parents time to make childcare arrangements. Stepp said that if families require assistance with negotiating childcare for a snow day, they should contact their child's school. "We have all kinds of services to help families," said Stepp. "So if they'll just let us know or give us a heads up before snow days ... and that way we can help them in any way we can." Jessica Ceballos may be reached at jceballos@crossville-chronicle.com JERUSALEM, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military said on Monday night it intercepted a surface-to-surface missile fired by militants in Yemen. The missile triggered air raid sirens across large parts of central Israel and several areas in the south, the Israeli military said in a statement, adding that the Israeli Air Force intercepted the missile before it entered Israeli territory. The sirens were activated due to concerns about potential shrapnel from the interception. Earlier on Monday, a U.S.-British naval coalition carried out two airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah province, targeting the At-Tuhayta district in the southwest, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported. The report did not provide further details, but residents in the district posted on social media about two powerful explosions that shook their homes. Since November 2023, Houthi forces have intermittently launched attacks on Israel and disrupted "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their conflict with Israelis. In response, Israel has carried out multiple large-scale airstrikes. When Donald Trump emerged victorious from the US presidential election in November, some at Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs lamented the result but none professed surprise. For months, officials and analysts linked to the ministry had prepared for the outcome, anticipating the former president was the favourite to win the White House. And the prevailing view was that any alarm was unwarranted, a senior diplomatic source said. Many forecast that Trump's Latin American agenda would likely focus on combating drug trafficking and illegal immigration, as it did during the president-elect's first term. These issues, they said, can create friction but also allow for engagement on broader matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. "That hope collapsed exactly eight days after the US elections with the announcement of Marco Rubio as secretary of state," the diplomat said, referring to Trump's choice of the Cuban-American senator to serve as the State Department's first Hispanic leader. "Our initial impression is that pragmatism in matters of trade or diplomacy could be affected by Rubio's ideological leanings," he added. Assuming he is confirmed by the Senate after Trump takes office, which is all but assured given that Republicans will control the chamber, Rubio will oversee Washington's relations with a region where China has made significant inroads, diplomatically and economically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That has raised concerns by US officials including General Laura Richardson, head of the US Southern Command, that Beijing is undermining Washington's interests in a region that is traditionally seen as within America's sphere of influence. Marco Rubio, a US senator from Florida, meets Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York in Washington on December 10. The Republican is president-elect Donald Trump's choice for secretary of state. Photo: Reuters alt=Marco Rubio, a US senator from Florida, meets Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York in Washington on December 10. The Republican is president-elect Donald Trump's choice for secretary of state. Photo: Reuters> Throughout his US congressional career, Rubio has been known for bellicose statements against China and frequent commentary on Latin American politics. However, analysts are split over whether he will adopt the same approach as secretary of state. In 2021, for instance, Rubio in Washington hosted and posed for photos with Chilean far-right politician Jose Antonio Kast, a presidential candidate at the time and admirer of the days when the South American country was a dictatorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The senator also once called Colombian President Gustavo Petro an "agent of chaos" and has been a vocal critic of leftist dictatorships in Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua. In 2023, Rubio raised eyebrows in Brasilia after penning an op-ed for The Epoch Times, a US-based newspaper supportive of Trump and aligned with Falun Gong practitioners - a spiritual sect outlawed by Beijing - criticising Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for sympathising with China. "[US President Joe] Biden must take a firm line with Brazil's new president, holding Lula to account for his friendliness towards the CCP - as well as other bloody-handed dictatorships," Rubio wrote, referring to China's Communist Party. Months later, Rubio took to social media to blast Lula for "bowing down to China's genocidal regime". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, the senator from Florida sent a letter to Biden, accusing his administration of failing to enforce the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement and allowing China to exploit the trade pact between the three countries. Rubio co-sponsored a bill requiring the US Treasury Department to report to Congress on China's "coercive tactics" at the Inter-American Development Bank and urging the US to use its sway to boost transparency and "counter China's growing footprint" in Latin America. He was also a sponsor of the Western Hemisphere Security Strategy Act, requiring US secretaries of state and defence to submit a strategy within 180 days of assuming office to strengthen US diplomatic and security efforts throughout the region. The bill called for increased military training exercises with partner countries to tackle issues like drug trafficking and transnational crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is no greater threat in our region than the growing meddling of Russia and China in Latin America and the Caribbean," Rubio said at the time. In recent weeks, the Post reached out to foreign ministries and government officials in nine Latin American countries - Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru and Uruguay - to ask how they were responding to Rubio's nomination. None was willing to comment publicly, with several saying it would be inappropriate to issue statements before Rubio's Senate confirmation hearings. But privately some diplomats voiced unease. Many said they were focusing on crafting a strategy to engage Trump and navigate dealings with his future top diplomat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least four policymakers from these countries expressed concerns that if Rubio were to continue the approach he took in Congress at the State Department he might pressure governments in the region to choose sides between Washington and Beijing. Francisco Urdinez of the Millennium Nucleus on the Impacts of China in Latin America and the Caribbean, a Chile-based research initiative, said the nomination had sparked anxiety over economic dependence on China and what it might mean for relations with the US in the coming years. He noted that while many countries navigate diplomacy with "carrots and sticks", Rubio appeared to rely more on the latter. "Dependence on China is so entrenched that even some far-right politicians recognise there are red lines no one dares to cross, such as questioning human rights in China or addressing Taiwan and Hong Kong," Urdinez explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a region facing an annual infrastructure gap of more than US$150 billion, he added, politicians must show voters that they are fostering development. However, "the US does not have the same control over capital forces as China", Urdinez continued, saying: "It cannot mobilise private companies to take on risky investments for political reasons." "And the tools of aid and bilateral cooperation at their disposal like the Ex-Im Bank [Export-Import Bank of the United States] and the DFC [International Development Finance Corporation] have limited budgets and are notoriously slow in approving credits and projects." Urdinez also said the strategy of publicly criticising China-friendly leaders and threatening them with tariffs and sanctions might yield short-term gains but could erode relations in the long run, giving rise to "a renewed sense of American bullying". A vessel operated by China Cosco Shipping Corporation Ltd docks at Chancay, Peru, on November 25, 2024. The deepwater megaport is a flagship project between China and Peru under the Belt and Road Initiative. Photo: Xinhua alt=A vessel operated by China Cosco Shipping Corporation Ltd docks at Chancay, Peru, on November 25, 2024. The deepwater megaport is a flagship project between China and Peru under the Belt and Road Initiative. Photo: Xinhua> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bruna Santos of the Wilson Centre's Brazil Institute in Washington said she expected Trump to use punitive measures to dissuade countries in the region from accepting investments in areas such as power grids, 5G networks and ports. She pointed to remarks by Mauricio Claver-Carone, a close Trump aide and part of his transition team who in November told Bloomberg the president-elect was considering a 60 per cent tariff on goods traded through Peru's deepwater megaport in Chancay, built under China's Belt and Road Initiative and inaugurated in November. A former IDB president, Claver-Carone said tariffs on Chancay would discourage the practice of transshipment, when goods enter a territory and are later re-exported to their final destination at lower tariffs. Tariffs would also deter "Latin American countries from getting closer to the Chinese regime and allowing the construction of infrastructure in their countries", she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is a group of Republicans who still view Latin America through the lens of the Monroe Doctrine and the region as their 'backyard'," Santos said. "If this is now adopted concerning Beijing, I think it could provoke mixed reactions," she added. "Some countries might indeed move closer to the US, while others could see this as a reason to diversify their alliances or even seek deeper relations with China." In the same article for The Epoch Times critical of Lula's close ties to China, Rubio described the relationship as partly arising from the US lacking tools to finance development in the Global South, Santos noted. This perspective could signal that Rubio sees alternatives beyond mere diplomatic pressure, she added, suggesting it would be "very positive if there is a vision" not only from Rubio but those who will comprise the National Security Council "that this region can serve as a strategic reserve for the US". "There are vast investment opportunities related to nearshoring, for example, which could bring strategic convergences and go beyond this reactive clash of simply counterbalancing China's influence," she continued. Yet Santos believed Brazil's case could prove more complicated due to how Brazilian domestic political issues were being discussed in Washington. Rubio and Trump are harsh critics of Lula, who during the 2024 US election race made no secret that he preferred US Vice-President Kamala Harris to win. And Trump is close to Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's former president, whom the country's federal police recently indicted for masterminding a coup after losing the 2022 election to Lula. Santos also wondered "how this new White House will deal with Brics", an association of leading emerging markets of which Brazil is a founding member along with Russia, India, China and South Africa. Brazil will lead Brics' rotating presidency in 2025. In early December, Trump threatened Brics members with tariffs if they pushed ahead with the idea of creating their own currency for trade transactions and abandoning the US dollar. Nevertheless, the outlook for the region is not entirely bleak. Argentine President Javier Milei enjoys a close relationship with Trump and received public praise from Rubio in January after he rejected a Brics invitation for Argentina to join the bloc. Milei has visited Trump's Florida residence Mar-a-Lago multiple times and been outspoken about his wish to align closely with the US. During his presidential campaign last year, Milei repeatedly vowed to cut ties with China, once calling the country an "assassin". However, the self-proclaimed ultra-libertarian has since reversed his stance and now offers praise for Beijing. On December 18, for example, Milei told The Wall Street Journal that he hoped Trump would see him as a "strategic ally" and expressed his reliance on the president-elect to bolster Argentina's international standing. Notwithstanding this alignment, Milei at the same time lauded China and indicated a willingness to pursue a free-trade agreement with the country. "In this interview, he said four times that China is fabulous and they don't ask for anything in return, which is something very naive," said Patricio Giusto of the Buenos Aires-based Sino-Argentine Observatory. Giusto observed that amid Milei's apparently softened stance towards China it remained to be seen whether he has privately embraced a more pragmatic political approach. Argentine President Javier Milei gestures during an event in Rome, Italy, on December 14, 2024. Photo: Reuters alt=Argentine President Javier Milei gestures during an event in Rome, Italy, on December 14, 2024. Photo: Reuters> The Argentine president has heavily invested in his relationship with Trump, he added, and was likely aiming to capitalise on it. Giusto voiced doubt as to whether such a strategy could coexist with a more conciliatory policy towards Beijing. Milei's praise for China, he said, stemmed largely from frustration with the Biden administration's tepid response to his efforts at diplomatic alignment and its failure to deliver benefits for Buenos Aires. Now, given his ideological closeness with Rubio and Trump, the Argentine leader could see tangible deliverables. In addition, Milei could prove "a key ally against leftist authoritarian leaders whom both he and Rubio have publicly opposed, such as Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela and Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua", Giusto said. Such is the assessment of Evan Ellis of the US Army War College, who believed these authoritarian regimes were primed to be a top priority for the new secretary of state. "I would expect Senator Rubio will be particularly attentive to the contribution by China to authoritarian regimes and some of the deals that they're getting and how that money opens the door for those authoritarian regimes to present wider threats to the United States," said Ellis, a Latin America specialist. Ellis, who served at the State Department in Trump's first term, added that Rubio's high interest in the Western hemisphere would be shared by Trump, evident in his nomination of Christopher Landau to be Rubio's deputy at State. A former US ambassador to Mexico, Landau has extensive experience in the region. He is fluent in Spanish and has lived in Paraguay, Chile and Venezuela as well as holds a certificate in Latin American studies from Harvard. "Having worked under Secretary [Mike] Pompeo during the first Trump administration, I can tell you that ... there'll be a mixture of carrots and sticks," Ellis predicted, alluding to the US secretary of state from 2018 to 2021. "I expect that you'll see again an emphasis on the role of the private sector in providing alternatives to Chinese investments in US companies and the relatively good record that they have on corruption and corporate social responsibility," he added, in contrast with "some of the less good Chinese companies" operating in Latin America. Additional reporting by Khushboo Razdan in Washington This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright 2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. There were 24 reports of symptoms consistent with food poisoning, according to the Association of Flight Attendants. JanValls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images Some United Airlines employees at Denver International Airport fell ill after a holiday meal. The Association of Flight Attendants reported there were 24 cases of food poisoning symptoms. United Airlines is monitoring the situation and coordinating with health authorities. Dozens of United Airlines employees at Denver International Airport fell ill after eating a meal provided by the airline on Christmas Day. According to a letter from the Association of Flight Attendants, representing United workers in Denver and Phoenix, a total of 492 meals were served to flight attendants. Of those, there were 24 reports of symptoms connected to food poisoning . Denver7 spoke with one flight attendant who said he felt sick and started to experience nausea and diarrhea shortly after eating the holiday plate of food. The employee said many of his colleagues who ate the meal were also ill afterward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told Denver7 that United Airlines has a strict policy requiring staff to submit a doctor's note within 48 hours when they call in sick during the holiday period. A spokesperson from United Airlines told Business Insider: "United is monitoring reports from some employees about gastrointestinal symptoms following holiday meals served to Denver employees last Wednesday, and we are in contact with health authorities. There has been no impact on our operation." The AFA initially reported that around 200 employees had been sick after eating the meal on Christmas Day, however, it said in its later letter that the actual number of reports was substantially lower. "We recognize that there may be some who decided to "power through" or who may have been apprehensive about calling in sick over the holiday period, or who may have been on their way home and therefore did not miss work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The union wrote that if staff had to call in sick and believe it was because of the meal, they should email their supervisor explaining they are among those with symptoms and that any points associated with the absence should be removed. Although the letter said "there is no way to know for sure" if these were cases of food poisoning as there are viruses circulating that produce similar symptoms, management at the airport would keep monitoring the issue. Read the original article on Business Insider Dr. Harold Jordan, the physician who made history as the first Black resident at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Tennessees first Black commissioner of mental health, died Thursday. He was 87. Jordan, a 1962 graduate of Meharry Medical College, earned numerous awards during and after his career in psychiatry, public service and academics, including as the namesake of the Harold Jordan Center, a state-run facility serving people with intellectual disabilities facing criminal charges. He returned to Meharry Medical College later in his career and chaired the schools psychiatry department for 18 years. He was awarded the school's Presidents Award and the Humanism in Clinical Medicine Award, "reflecting his profound dedication to patient care and medical education," the school said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His daughter Karen Jordan said her father told her that he was born to help people. He felt that it was his mission in life to help people, she said. He always put people first in everything that he did. In addition to his work as a psychiatrist, Dr. Harold Jordan led the state's mental health department and chaired Meharry Medical College's psychiatry department. Dr. Melissa Hall, the director of diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice in Vanderbilts Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, called Jordan a beacon of hope and light who blazed trails at Vanderbilt University Medical Center as he became its first African American resident in 1964. Dr. Harold Jordan is a giant in the history of our department who served as a champion of diversity and inclusion, Hall said. Each year our department recognizes his life and legacy with the Dr. Harold Jordan lecture series given by esteemed academic champions of diversity and inclusion and the Dr. Harold Jordan award, which is awarded to a physician trainee who contributes to the departments diversity and inclusion mission." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meharry Medical College said Jordan "embodied our highest ideals and left a lasting impact on medicine." "Dr. Jordans legacy extends beyond titlesit lives in the students he mentored, the patients he served and the barriers he broke," the school said in a statement provided by a spokesperson. "May his memory inspire us to lead with humanity, foster equity and serve with purpose." Jordan is survived by his wife, Geraldine, to whom he was married for 62 years, and two sons, two daughters, three grandchildren and one great grandchild. A family history of medicine According to his daughter Karen Jordan, her father knew he wanted to be a doctor from the time he was 7 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordans family inspired him to pursue medicine, as his grandfather John Henry Jordan, the son of a sharecropper, was the first Black doctor in Coweta County, Georgia. Jordans great-grandfather, Edward Ramsey, was the first Black doctor in Troup County, Georgia. Both men graduated from Meharry Medical College. This picture appeared in a 2003 Tennessean story written by Karen Jordan about her family's history with medicine. In the photo, Karen and her father, Dr. Harold Jordan, look through pictures while a photo of Harold's grandfather, John Henry Jordan, sits nearby. I had wanted to do that since I heard about them, he said in a 2017 feature published on Vanderbilt University Medical Centers website. Jordan was born on May 24, 1937, in the home his grandfather built in Newnan, Georgia. At the time, the hospital his grandfather built next door was still standing, according to a 2003 article in The Tennessean. That article was written by his daughter Karen Jordan, who was a staff writer for the newspaper. Jordan graduated from high school in Newnan in 1954. He enrolled at Morehouse College and graduated with a degree in biology in 1958. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With his undergraduate degree completed, Jordan went on to Meharry Medical College, where he met a nursing student named Geraldine. The pair met while hiding after a bomb threat had been made to listen to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. speak at nearby Fisk University. One week after he graduated from Meharry, he proposed to her outside Hulda Margaret Lyttle Hall, her nursing school dorm. He was so in love with my mother, Karen Jordan said. Making history After completing a one-year internship at Meharry, Jordan decided he wanted to focus on psychiatry. Because Meharry lacked a psychiatry department, he was encouraged by Dr. Lloyd Elam, who later became Meharrys president, to apply for one of the three residency spots offered by Vanderbilts psychiatry department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the height of the Civil Rights Movement, parts of Vanderbilts campus had begun to integrate by 1964, but the halls of the medical center remained segregated. According to VUMC, Dr. William Orr, chairman of Vanderbilts Department of Psychiatry, was searching for a talented Black student for the explicit purpose of integration. Jordan was that student. He matriculated in 1964. While racial tensions were high throughout the country, Jordan said his fellow residents and faculty were supportive of him, although he still faced hardship, according to the 2017 feature for VUMC. I walked into the Emergency Room (for a consult) and somebody thought I was the janitor and said, The trash is over there, he told VUMC. Faced with this adversity and raising a family following the birth of his first and second children around the same time, Jordan still thrived in his residency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later writing in support of Jordans appointment to a faculty position at Vanderbilt, Dr. Robert M. Reed, a faculty member in the psychiatry department, said that because Jordan was the first Black resident at Vanderbilt, he was watched closely, as something of a test case. If indeed it were a test, then Harold passed it with honors, in my opinion, Reed wrote. In 1967, Jordan completed his residency and became an attending physician. He entered public service in the following years. After serving as assistant commissioner for psychiatric services in state government, he was appointed as the first Black commissioner of the states mental health department. According to a 1994 article in The Tennessean, the idea for a place where people with intellectual disabilities could go besides prison if they committed a crime came in 1975, while Jordan was leading the mental health department. In 1979, his last year as commissioner, the state opened the Harold W. Jordan Habilitation Center, making Tennessee one of the first states to operate such a facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The center is now called the Harold Jordan Center. Harold Jordan stands outside the habilitation center that bears his name. The center, which serves clients with mental disabilities who have committed crimes, was relocated to Stewarts Ferry Pike in 1994. Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Commissioner Marie Williams mourned Jordan's death. "Nearly 50 years since his appointment as Commissioner, Dr. Jordans legacy is one of a caring and wise physician," Williams said in a statement. "When interviewed for our department newsletter in 2019, Dr. Jordan left us with these words: 'Be compassionate. Show compassion and be caring.'" Jordan also worked at Meharry Medical College, leading his alma maters department of psychiatry for 18 years and serving as the acting dean of Meharrys School of Medicine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His daughter said he was always committed to increasing the number of Black and minority doctors. He loved to teach as many as possible, because he felt that that was important, that there be representation in the medical field, Karen Jordan said. 'He was never too busy for his family' Even though he usually worked seven days a week, his daughter Karen Jordan said he always made time for his family. He was always there for all four of us (children), she said. Even though he was a busy man, I never remember him being busy for me, because he was never too busy for his family. The Jordan family, including Harold and Geraldine Jordan and their four children, lived in Nashville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was also an active member of Clark Memorial United Methodist Church in Nashville and sang in the church's choir. In addition, he served on the Martin Methodist College Board of Trustees. He was a major and lieutenant colonel in the Tennessee Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve, his daughter said. Jordan received numerous honors from his alma maters. In 2024, he was awarded the Living Legends award from the Thomas J. Blocker Society, an alumni group for Morehouse College. Jordan and his wife, Geraldine, retired in the early 2010s to Los Angeles, where several of their children had moved. As his health began to falter, his love for Geraldine did not. Wherever he was, even in the hospital, he always brought a framed picture of his wife in her wedding gown, Karen Jordan said. He always wanted to look at that picture every day, she said. Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him at emealins@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Dr. Harold Jordan, Vanderbilt's first Black resident, dies at 87 NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) The New Orleans Police Department is investigating a crash in New Orleans East that claimed a mans life. According to officers, around 11 p.m. on Dec. 30, they were alerted of a vehicle fire in the 26000 block of Chef Menteur Highway. Building collapse on Magazine Street leaves neighborhood in the dark An investigation revealed a driver lost control of their vehicle, and crashed into a tree resulting in the car catching fire with them inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver was pronounced dead on the scene, according to NOPD. No further details are available at this time. The Orleans Coroners Office will release the persons identity after an autopsy is done and the family is notified. Man fatally shot in Tangipahoa Parish deer hunting incident Anyone with information on the incident can call NOPD Traffic Fatality Unit Investgators at 504-658-6205. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. OTTAWA COUNTY, Kan. (KSNW) A driver was fined nearly $400 for speeding in northern Kansas on Monday. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Trooper Jacoby Williams stopped a car for driving 101 mph in a 65 mph zone in Ottawa County. The ticket pictured shows the fine for exceeding the maximum posted speed limit was $285. Included in the ticket is a docket fee of $108. Together, those total to a fine of $393. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What more can be done to stop motorists from driving at these high speeds? The KHP asked in a Facebook post. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. NewsNation) Mexican law enforcement officials have discovered what they believe is a tunnel designed to smuggle drugs or people between the United States and Mexico after a drone detected the passageway. Photos of the tunnel were posted on a Facebook account operated by the State Public Secretary of Security in Sonora, Mexico. Investigators believe that the discovery will disrupt the construction of the tunnel. The agency said that the entrance of the tunnel was found in San Luis, Rio Colorado, in Mexico, which is located south of Yuma, Arizona. The tunnel stretched across the U.S.-Mexico border, according to a report by Arizonas Family. The report indicated that a drone that was being used during a joint operation between Mexican authorities and U.S. Customs of Border Protection and discovered the tunnels entrance just south of the border wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Common sense law requires congressional scrutiny, oversight of border security contracts Mexican police believe that the tunnel was in the early stages of construction. However, if completed, authorities believe the passageway would have been used as a narco tunnel to smuggle drugs or people under the border wall and into the United States. Implementing the Border Security Protocol and using technology critical points were identified to strengthen surveillance in the area, the Facebook post said. The police agency said that the tunnel was the third of its kind found near Yuma this year. The report said the Yuma Border Patrol did not have information about this specific tunnel. However, the agency reported it works with the Mexican police to combat border crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Members of Oklahoma City's Vietnamese community have urged city leaders to not let the dismissal of a felony use-of-force charge against a police officer be the last word in seeking justice for 71-year-old Lich Vu. Several members of that community, and others, spoke to the Oklahoma City Council on Tuesday just days after Attorney General Gentner Drummond intervened in the aggravated assault case against Sgt. Joseph Gibson, 28. Gibson was charged in Oklahoma County after he threw Vu to the ground during an altercation, causing severe head injuries and hospitalization. Gibson remains on administrative leave while the Oklahoma City Police Department conducts its own investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The attorney general's decision to dismiss the officer from a criminal charge was very unsettling to our community and many in the room," said Thuan Nguyen, president of the Vietnamese American Heritage Community of Oklahoma. "There's been anger. There's been hurt. Many are upset. Most importantly, there's been feelings of distrust in our leaders, in our leadership." Vu is a Vietnamese immigrant and served in the South Vietnamese air force before his country fell in 1975. He has been in Oklahoma City for decades and is described as a dedicated volunteer at homeless shelters and at polling locations during elections. OKC has its own police disciplinary process Nguyen was one of several who spoke during public comment at the council's meeting on Tuesday. He directly asked City Manager Craig Freeman, on behalf of Vu's family, to use his power to terminate Gibson's employment and ensure he can never again serve as a law enforcement officer, or at the very least ensure he does not patrol city streets. While OKC's personnel decisions are left up to the city manager, Freeman explained the administrative process taking place now that Gibson is no longer facing a criminal charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's commonplace, Freeman said, for any disciplinary actions against a police officer to wait until any associated criminal case runs its course. Now that the charge has been dropped, the incident will be reviewed and a recommendation made to the police chief and city manager. The mayor and council are prohibited from making personnel decisions, Freeman said. If the city disciplines Gibson, his contract gives him the right to an arbitration to appeal the decision. The city's Community Public Safety Advisory Board will also meet separately to consider recommendations about police training, procedures and community involvement. Bodycam shows officer slamming Vu to the ground The incident occurred on Oct. 27 as the officer responded to a minor vehicle collision in northwest Oklahoma City. Bodycam footage shows Gibson asking Lich Vu to sign a citation, but tensions rose between the two because of the language barrier. More: OKC police release bodycam footage of use-of-force incident involving 70-year-old man Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Vu was trying to explain a point, Gibson interrupted and Vu appeared to rap his knuckles on Gibson's chest, telling him to shut up. That's when Gibson grabbed Vu's arms, twisted them behind his back, threw him to the ground and handcuffed him. When charging Gibson, Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna said the interaction escalated to the point where Gibson performed a takedown on Vu, which caused Vu to fall headfirst on the pavement. Her office said Vu sustained significant injuries, including an orbital fracture, neck fracture and a brain bleed. Drummond dismissed the charge in late December, saying that he would not let police officers "face criminal prosecution for conduct adhering to their training." Tasneem Al-Michael, community engagement manager for the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice, urged the council to make de-escalation a core value in every interaction, revise the use-of-force policy to mandate a verbal warning, ensure all use-of-force incidents are accurately reported and following recommendations of the those tasked with reviewing uses of force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Communities like mine need to know that law enforcement is committed to protecting all residents, regardless of their background or language," Al-Michael said. "It's time to act not just for Mr. Vu, but for every Oklahoma City resident that deserves to feel safe in their community." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Vietnamese community asks city council for justice in Lich Vu case DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Two men were accused of hunting and firing a gun at a deer on Milton Hershey School property, according to police. After driving around the schools Central Operations Building, Brandon Valenzuela, 19, of Hummelstown, and Kaden Abeleda, 18, of Hershey, allegedly shot at a deer on Dec. 6, the charges filed by Derry Township Police show. The duo are not affiliated at all with the school and no one was injured, a district spokesperson confirmed. The incident happened in a field and not near any student homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Camp Hill man charged with home improvement fraud after refusing to replace homeowners heat pump Police said they were dispatched to assist school security with a hunter who discharged a firearm at a deer. After they arrived they were told by security there was a vehicle circling the building, and that security saw a gun was fired about 75 yards away from the building. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter Security followed the vehicle and was able to stop it. Police then shortly arrived and saw Valenzuela, who was the driver, and Abeleda standing outside the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the complaint, a Kel-Tec Sub-2000 folding pistol carbine was found on the front passenger floorboard, and a magazine with four 9mm rounds in it. More ammo was found behind the drivers seat in a rifle case. The duo faces a felony charge of firearms not to be carried without a license, along with misdemeanor charges of possession of a weapon on school property, recklessly endangering another person and trespassing. They also face summary charges of hunting violations. Both of them were put on ROR bail by Magisterial District Judge Dominic Pelino. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 7. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. PHNOM PENH, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia earned 1.15 billion U.S. dollars from the exports of raw cashew nuts in 2024, a year-on-year rise of 31 percent, according to the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC)'s report on Tuesday. The report showed that the Southeast Asian country exported a total of 815,000 tonnes of the commodity in 2024, representing a year-on-year increase of about 24 percent. About 793,453 tonnes, or 97.3 percent, of the commodity were sold to neighboring Vietnam, it said. CAC President Uon Silot said Cambodia had become the world's second-largest producer of raw cashew nuts, with a total production of 850,000 tonnes in 2024, up 26 percent year-on-year. "The increase is a positive sign for the development of the cashew nut industry," he said, adding that the cashew nut price was also good in 2024. Cashew is among the country's potential cash crops in addition to rice, rubber, cassava, palm oil, bananas, mangoes, longans, and pepper. According to the CAC, the kingdom currently has approximately 700,000 hectares of cashew plantations in roughly 10 provinces. LONG ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) Suffolk and Nassau County police are enhancing patrols to crack down on people driving under the influence during the holiday. Both police departments have announced that they will have more officers patrolling the roadways throughout New Years Eve and New Years Day. More Local News They are closing the year strong with enhanced DWI enforcement during this critical time so we can all safely celebrate the holidays with friends and family, said Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over in Nassau, officials say they will be utilizing grant funds from the Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Impaired. The program, created by the New York State Legislature in 1981, is funded by fines paid by convicted drunken drivers, according to its website. Fines for DWI can range from $300 to $10,000 along with court surcharges that can range from $260 for a violation to $520 for a felony offense, as outlined by the New York State Police. Those convicted of DWI can have their license suspended for six months for their first offense. Licenses can be revoked for the following offenses. Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Hoosiers value their environment and the many natural resources that dot the state. Preserving and protecting those resources have always been high on their list of public policy priorities. Indiana has taken a step in further addressing that priority with the recent announcement that the states Department of Natural Resources has acquired nearly 4,000 acres of forests, marshland and upland habitat in Sullivan County, just east of the city of Sullivan. The property is set to become the Busseron Creek Fish & Wildlife Area. The state is no stranger to the site. The DNR once leased the land and operated it as the Minnehaha Fish & Wildlife Area, although its 30-year partnership with the landholders expired in 2016. Prior to the states involvement at the site, much of the vast property 3,950 acres in all was heavily mined for coal and the land reclaimed to meet environmental standards at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the DNR, the land has been permanently conserved and protected through a collaboration with the Conservation Law Center and its Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape initiative and The Conservation Fund. Additional project support came from The Nature Conservancy in Indiana. The DNRs acquisition gives all Hoosiers an opportunity to enjoy this valuable and environmentally rich property. DNR Director Dan Bortner, in a press release announcing the purchase, called the development a win for conservation and a win for Indiana. We agree with his assessment, and we hope all Hoosiers do as well. It comes at a time when Indianas political leadership at the Statehouse in Indianapolis has repeatedly rolled back protections for the states wetlands in favor of further commercial development. Those legislative maneuvers, according to environmental scientists, are reducing the positive impacts wetlands can have on flood control, soaking up storm water and cleansing underground aquifers that supply drinking water to citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given state leaders continued willingness to compromise environmental protections to serve business interests in some areas, having the Busseron Creek area in Sullivan County secured by another arm of the state is a strong and positive move that will benefit all Hoosiers for years to come. Tribune Star, Terre Haute Dec. 30CARTHAGE, Mo. Changes are coming to some county offices across in Carthage and Neosho. Jasper County will see a new Western District commissioner and new treasurer take office Jan. 1; Newton County will see two new commissioners, a new sheriff and other new officials take office at the same time. Jasper County Mike Landis, a former construction company owner and 14-year member of the Joplin Board of Education, was sworn in Friday to take the Western District commissioner's seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He replaces Darieus Adams, who retired after holding the seat for about 20 years. Landis said he's taking office at a time when Jasper County is healthy, thanks to a lot of work over the past decade. "I'm very fortunate coming in the office when I'm coming in," Landis said. "Officials did a great job eight or nine years ago going to the public and getting some bonds passed, and we were able to build the Senator Ron Richard Juvenile Justice Center in Joplin. We were able to build the Joplin Courts Building and remodel the courthouse in Carthage and add on to the sheriff's office. So facilitywise, I'm coming in at probably the absolute best time ever, I think, in the county history." Landis said he and Eastern District Commissioner Tom Flanigan and Presiding Commissioner John Bartosh will have their hands full keeping up with the roads and bridges and facilities maintenance and the day-to-day issues that people don't read about as much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm willing and eager to get in and learn, and it's going to be great working with John Bartosh and Tom Flanigan and all the other officeholders," Landis said. "You know we all have to work well with each other and we all need to make sure we're tugging on the same rope in Jasper County. That just helps our constituents." The other newcomer to Jasper County government is really no newcomer at all. Shannon Karraker has served as an employee of the county for several years and as chief deputy treasurer for the past year and a half. Karraker takes over as county treasurer from Denise Rohr, who decided not to run for reelection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Denise, the current treasurer, has been extremely helpful and served as a great mentor leading up to this moment. I'll have some big shoes to fill," she said. The other officeholders sworn in to new terms are Flanigan, Sheriff Randee Kaiser, Assessor Lisa Perry, Public Administrator Angie Casavecchia and Coroner James Harrison. Newton County Incoming Newton County Sheriff Matt Stewart said he's looking forward to learning about his new department. The former Joplin police chief won the race for Newton County sheriff after incumbent Chris Jennings decided to retire. Stewart said he's looking forward to getting back into law enforcement after his most recent stint as director of the Children's Center of Southwest Missouri. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Each law enforcement agency has its unique set of challenges and issues, and I'm looking forward to getting to know this department and this county and learning more about those challenges here in Newton County," he said. Newton County will also have two new commissioners on the three-seat board that governs the county. Mark Knight was elected to be the District 1 commissioner and Mark Bridges was elected to the District 2 seat to serve along with Presiding Commissioner Daniel Swem. Reelected to new terms in Newton County were Assessor Cheryle Perkins, Treasurer Gina Genisio Rodriguez, Public Administrator Joy Williams, Coroner Dale Owen and Surveyor Jerry Wood. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. Events at political rallies, in airports, at theaters, inside courtrooms and even in the skies above impacted the Johnstown region in 2024. The year included tragedies, successes and controversies. Most affected only the local area, but some drew national attention. Here is a look at some memorable happenings from the past year, listed in no particular order. Local, national elections Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two elections stood out in the Johnstown area during an intense and divisive political year locally, statewide and nationally. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and running mate U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, now the president-elect and vice president-elect, campaigned in the city. So did Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee. Trump held a rally at 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial downtown. It was attended by approximately 6,000 people, including a protester who got some national attention after he was arrested when he climbed a barrier by the press area. Harris visited Classic Elements, a coffee shop, wine bar and bookstore. Vance spoke at JWF Industries. Trump carried Cambria County with 69.5% of the vote. He got 84% in Bedford County and more than 78% in Somerset County during his victorious campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, state Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, won a ninth term by holding off the challenge of Republican Amy Bradley in the 72nd District. The election attracted statewide attention and millions of dollars from outside interests. Burns victory helped secure a 102-101 edge for the Democrats in the state House of Representatives. Results were delayed for days when problems with ballots on Election Day in Cambria County forced officials to hand-count ballots. Also in local politics, Christine Ebersole emerged as the Bedford County Republican Partys new chair. Former Bedford County District Attorney Bill Higgins won the original vote to the position. But the Republican Party of Pennsylvania declared that result null and void because the meeting was improperly scheduled, with none of the presumptive committee members having been certified by the county board of elections. City Hall turnover Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was high turnover within Johnstown city government. City Manager Ethan Imhoff, Assistant City Manager Alex Ashcom, Finance Director Robert Ritter, police Chief Richard Pritchard, Community and Economic Development Director Nina Ndichu, and the solicitor firm of Leventry, Haschak & Rodkey are all no longer in those positions. Art Martynuska is the new city manager. Melissa Millard was brought on to lead the finance department. David Andrews came back to the solicitor job he previously held. The police chief, assistant city manager, and community and economic development director positions are vacant. Capt. Dan Price is the police departments officer in charge. Airport takes off Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport in Richland Township set a new record for passengers. There were 14,600 paid boardings, or enplanements, through Oct. 31, breaking the previous high mark set in 2023, even before the busy holiday traveling season got underway. Another record of combined inbound and outbound passengers was set at 28,747, also with two months left in the year at the time. In December, the airport was reclassified within the nonhub commercial category to primary status. U.S. airports with that designation receive at least $1 million annually in federal funds. Going from nonprimary to primary will also get the airport a $1.3 million boost in Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SkyWest Airlines operates daily United Express-branded flights on 50-seat jets connecting the Johnstown airport with two major hubs Chicago OHare International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport. Eclipse energy A total solar eclipse passed over Pennsylvania April 8. Although Johnstown was not in the path of totality, the event sparked scientific and cultural interest among local residents who could view the celestial phenomenon. Schools held special eclipse watch parties. Some people traveled to the northwest corner of the state where the full spectacle of the moon blocking out the sun, leaving only a ring of fire in the sky, could be seen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephen Lindberg, an adjunct professor in the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstowns Energy and Earth Resources Department, described a total eclipse as the most awesome natural spectacle occurrence that you can witness. Downtown designs Details were developed for a redesign of Johnstowns Main Street and Central Park that is scheduled to get underway in 2025. The plans, as created by New York City-based Scape Landscape Architecture, include new sidewalks, greenery, public art, a bike lane and improved accessibility along the street. A pavilion, event lawn, memorial walk, public art display, water spray zone, stormwater glen, trees and benches will be added to the park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more than $17 million project is being done almost entirely with federal money. Part of the funding is coming from a $24.4 million U.S. Department of Transportation Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant that will also be used to upgrade the Johnstown Inclined Plane, the Johnstown Train Station and the Cambria County Transit Authoritys Downtown Intermodal Transportation Center. Theater roadblock Efforts to bring an IMAX theater to downtown Johnstown fell through. An agreement was in place to add the modern movie system to the historic State Theater of Johnstown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A key step in the process was the sale of the building from Medical Properties Trust, an investment group used by Duke LifePoint Healthcare, the parent company of Conemaugh Health System, to the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority. JRA was then going to lease the venue to the Johnstown State Theater Foundation for a nominal fee. However, a half-century-old deed restriction was discovered, dating from when County Amusement Co. transferred the property to what was then Lee Hospital for $1 in 1976. The document stated that the property could not be used as a motion picture theater. County Amusement Co. enforced the restriction. Business developments Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple expansions and announcements of future development took place in the local manufacturing sector. JWF Industries plans to invest $150 million to build two new locations and add equipment with the goal of creating 200 new jobs. Sites are being explored in Ebensburg, Hastings and behind the companys main facility on Iron Street in Johnstown. JWF is also looking for a location in Somerset County for more manufacturing space and finished goods storage. The expansion is being driven by opportunities in the railcar industry. The welding and fabricating business also recently completed a $5 million exterior renovation and addition of a new horizontal boring machine at its Cramer Pike facility in West Taylor Township. Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace agreed to a 10-year lease extension at its location on Industrial Park Road in Richland Township. Denmarks UXV Technologies, which develops and manufactures sensors and remote control-based ground control systems, debuted a facility in Richland Township. Getting the lead out The Greater Johnstown Water Authority and other water suppliers across the United States learned they must comply with a rule from President Joe Bidens administration to remove lead lines from the nations water system. The rule provides 13 years to replace the pipes. The lead water line project will occur in a region that is still going through what has already been a costly and controversial decade-long process of replacing public and private sewer lines to come into compliance with a state mandate. EMS, fire changes Windber-based Northern EMS and Conemaugh Township EMS merged. The combined territory consists of Conemaugh Township, Windber, Paint Borough, Paint Township, Benson, Hooversville, Scalp Level, Ogle Township, Central City, and parts of Jenner, Shade, Quemahoning and Adams townships. Somerset Volunteer Fire Department and Friedens Volunteer Fire Company voted to combine into the new Somerset Regional Volunteer Fire Department, effective in January. Portage Area Ambulance Association stopped providing emergency medical services. The first responder organizations, like many across the country, were affected by rising costs and a decrease in staff and recruits. High-profile crimes Brian Bradley Giles, of Johnstown, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of his wife, Nancy Giles, who went missing in October 2018. Her remains were discovered in a shallow grave near a trail on the Inclined Plane hillside, a few months later in May 2019. The body of Giles former girlfriend, Jilly Todaro, was then discovered in the basement of his house. Giles faces homicide and aggravated assault charges in Todaros death. Then, in December, Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City, was arrested at a McDonalds restaurant in Altoona. His apprehension brought national attention to Blair County law enforcement. Mangione waived his right to an extradition hearing Dec. 19. He was then transported from Pennsylvania to New York to face charges there. UPDATE: 12:45 p.m.: Firefighters are investigating what sparked an electrical issue in a Dayton neighborhood that caused fires in five homes on New Years Eve. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Dayton fire crews were first called out to a home in the 4300 block of Owens Drive, near North Gettysburg Avenue, around 9:45 a.m. on reports from one home of a fire inside. While firefighters were responding to the first report, homeowners across the street of the first home also reported a fire inside, Dayton Fire District Chief Christopher Kinzeler told News Center 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While crews were on scene, three additional homes on the same block reported fires, Kinzeler said. Our crew on the scene observed firefighters were going door-to-door checking other homes on the block for potential issues. Firefighters determined the fires were all electrical in nature however the cause of the electrical issues was still under investigation. All fires are under control and the homes are structurally sound, Kinzeler said. No injuries were reported. Previously, an AES Ohio spokesperson said they were asked by the Dayton Fire Department to turn off or redirect power in the area. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Miami Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross was called to help people living in the neighborhood since electric and natural gas service was temporarily stopped for all homes in the area. Additional details were not available. Well update this story as we learn more. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) A 58-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle wreck in Limestone County Monday. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said Donald J. Patrick, 58 from Elkmont, was critically injured when the vehicle he was driving left the road and hit a building. Family loses everything to a house fire on Christmas Eve The agency said Patrick was transported to the Athens Limestone Hospital where he later died from his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash happened on Elkton Road near Black Road around 10 a.m. Troopers with ALEAs Highway Patrol Division will continue to investigate the crash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) An Elmwood man was indicted for violation of order of protection and reckless discharge of a firearm. Christopher Coulter, 27, was indicted By a Peoria County grand jury on Monday, Dec. 30 for the two counts where each charge carries a maximum sentence of three years. The Peoria County Sheriffs Office were called at 4:13 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21 to the 200 block of North Daniels Street in Elmwood to a report of alleged shots being fired in a residential area, Sheriff Chris Watkins said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bearcat used to break down mans door after hours of failed negotiations When police arrived, they saw a video from a person who lives on that block that allegedly showed Christopher Coulter, 27, shooting a gun in his backyard, Watkins said. Since Coulter had an order of protection against him and was shooting a weapon in a residential neighborhood. deputies obtained a search warrant for his property. Coulter refused to come out of his home. After two hours of negotiations with deputies, the Central Illinois Emergency Response Team arrived with a Bearcat armored vehicle and negotiated for two more hours before using the Bearcat to break down the door. Coulter came out at about 9:30 p.m. two hours after C.I.E.R.T and the Bearcat had arrived on scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coulter had been ordered to remain in jail until his trial. He will next appear in court for his arraignment on Jan. 16. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. The days between Christmas and New Years Eve can be a disorienting time for many. Including, apparently, the worlds richest man. In between sharing photos of furry animals, bragging about the size of his rocket and dunking on the very concept of taxation, Elon Musk took a moment to change his username and profile picture on the social media platform X to an alt-right meme beloved by white-supremacist trolls. Musks new moniker, Kekius Maximus, is a meme that combines Pepe the Frog with the Maximus character from the movie Gladiator. The alt-right has embraced Pepe as the protector god of a satirical religion dedicated to chaos and anti-political correctness, according to research by the Southern Poverty Law Center (a group despised by Musk and others.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By using something as farcical as a frog deity meme, right-wing trolls can spread their ideas without having to address the vicious core of white male nationalism they embrace, according to the SPLC. Screenshot/X/Elon Musk As with all things Musk, its not clear whether his new alter ego is just a way to troll anyone who disagrees with him or whether theres the potential for self-enrichment. On Monday, MAGAs civil war over H-1B visas reignited a debate about whether Musk has a burner account on X that he uses to post fawning interactions with his official accounta practice known as sock-puppeting. For the past year, the Adrian Dittmann account has offered such a passionate defense of Muskand used such a similar rhetorical stylethat users have wondered if they are one and the same. That speculation came to a head during the H-1B visa debate, as internet sleuths dug back into Dittmanns old posts for clues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks new Kekius Maximus identity could just be a way to troll users who are convinced Musk has a burner account, with the added benefit of offending anyone who knows that Pepe is associated with SPLC-designated hate groups. On the other hand, Kekius Maximus is also the name of a meme coin, or a type of cryptocurrency named for internet memes. Meme coins typically arent worth as much as their less satirical counterparts, but President-elect Donald Trumps First Buddy is such a fan of meme coins that he named his Department of Government Efficiencywhich is really just an advisory panelafter one. The acronym DOGE is a nod to dogecoin, a cryptocurrency created in 2013 as a joke about the wildly speculative nature of crypto. Named for doge, a meme featuring a Japanese shiba inu dog, dogecoin has spawned a whole category of dog coins. This will be priceless https://t.co/YoX4JEDu5l Kekius Maximus (@elonmusk) December 31, 2024 Within hours of Musk adopting the new name, the value of the Kekius Maximus meme coin had surged by more than 500 percent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, investors accused Musk and his company Tesla of insider trading for allegedly using his social media platform to manipulate the value of dogecoin, The Guardian reported. Before he rebranded the platform as X, he replaced Twitters blue bird logo with dogecoins shiba inu logo, leading the coins price to jump by 30 percent, The Guardian reported. Musk then allegedly sold about $124 million of the currency, according to an insider trading suit filed by investors. Kekius Maximus will soon reach level 80 in hardcore PoE pic.twitter.com/Cg5ttuqjvX Kekius Maximus (@elonmusk) December 31, 2024 The case was dismissed in August because investors cant make an insider trading case based on tweets that are aspirational and puffery, the judge ruled. So maybe Musk changed his name to a frog in a gladiator costume becausein the great American traditionhes had a little too much sugar, butter and spiked eggnog and cant remember what day it is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe hes trying to troll X users and the media. Or maybe he has some Kekius Maximus currency hes looking to sell at a good pricein a totally non-insider trading kind of way, of course. Tesla boss Elon Musk has added to his record of personal insults aimed at German politicians with a new post targeting German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. On his X account on Tuesday, the US billionaire and close advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump wrote: "Steinmeier is an anti-democratic tyrant! Shame on him." Steinmeier's office said that it had taken note of the post but would not comment on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk's comment refers to the posting of an influencer close to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), who criticized Steinmeier after he spoke out against outside influence on upcoming elections. During his speech in parliament, Steinmeier explicitly mentioned the social media platform X, which is owned by Musk. Musk, who is known for posting provocative messages on his platform, has been provoking debate in German politics, as the country prepares for elections on February 23. Over the weekend, he once again promoted the AfD in an opinion column for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper. After the break-up of the three-way coalition government in November, the Tesla boss wrote about Chancellor Olaf Scholz in German: "Olaf ist ein Narr" (Olaf is a fool). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk - whose account has more than 200 million followers - has also predicted in a previous post that Scholz would lose the election, misspelling his name. Talks planned with AfD's Weidel Also on Tuesday, an AfD spokesman said concrete plans are under way for an online meeting between Musk and the party's leader Alice Weidel. "We are already in contact about an X Space between the two," spokesman Daniel Tapp told Spiegel magazine and dpa. Spaces is a feature to enable live broadcasts of conversations on Musk's platform X. The spokesman's comments came after Musk on Monday posted: "Wait until Alice and I do an X Spaces conversation. They will lose their minds." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weidel previously thanked Musk for his support in a video on X. So far, there has been no personal phone call or meeting between Weidel and Musk. "But that will surely change soon," said the AfD spokesman. Yearender-Feature: IP as the catalyst for China's innovation growth 20:42, December 31, 2024 By By Yuan Quan ( Xinhua BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- For Long Weimin, a 58-year-old mechanical engineer with decades of experience and hundreds of inventions to his name, nothing is more exciting than innovations that can solve problems in the real world. A chief engineer at the Zhengzhou Research Institute of Mechanical Engineering Co., Ltd., Long has also been appointed as a patent review consultant by China's top intellectual property (IP) regulator. However, in the early years of his career, Long was unaware of the significance of a patent certificate. It wasn't until 2015, when an overseas company challenged an infringement claim on a brazing material product developed by his institute, that he realized its importance. Thanks to several patents secured in advance, Long and his team were able to successfully convince the challengers and secure global orders from leading enterprises. Today, Long takes pride in showcasing the wall of patent certificates to visitors at his company. Many of these patents have earned numerous accolades and are featured in the country's space station and rockets, a source of national pride for the entire team. Like Long, an increasing number of Chinese inventors and companies are recognizing the value of IP and using it to protect their innovative creations. CORNEX is a young, private company focused on new energy. Established just three years ago in central China's Hubei Province, it has developed over 40 products in energy storage and electric vehicle battery sectors, while filing 3,300 patent applications. Starting from a small workshop in Hubei three decades ago, Shushi Group has grown into a global tape supplier with an annual export exceeding 10 million U.S. dollars. The company places a strong emphasis on IP and has registered numerous trademarks worldwide. It aims to establish itself as an internationally recognized brand in the industry. State-owned enterprises like China Railway Engineering Equipment Group Co., Ltd. also reap significant benefits from IP. The company has exported its self-developed tunnel boring machines to over 30 countries, generating patent transfer revenue exceeding 8 million yuan (about 1.1 million U.S. dollars). China has become the world's first country with over 4 million valid invention patents, with enterprises being the main contributors. According to the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), as of November 2024, the proportion of domestic valid invention patents held by enterprises reached 73.5 percent. INFRINGEMENT PREVENTION Many companies are realizing that IP not only generates profits but also protects a company's image and helps maintain order within the industry. In the city of Yuzhou in Henan Province, Jun porcelain is a pillar of the local economy. Since 2003, delicate porcelain artworks have been gifted to foreign heads of state or collected in national museums and galleries. However, this growing popularity has also fueled a rise in counterfeit products. Local newspapers frequently report on efforts to crack down on counterfeit and infringing goods. One local workshop owner lamented that while a genuine Jun porcelain vase was priced at 120,000 yuan, a counterfeit version could be sold for only 300 yuan. Counterfeiting has severely impacted the reputation of leading enterprises. In response, these companies have enhanced IP protection by securing design patents and collaborating with authorities on enforcement. The local government also conducted special law enforcement operations to raise IP awareness. In May 2024, a rapid IP rights protection center for porcelain patents was established in Yuzhou, slashing patent processing time from four months to just 7 to 10 working days. Through rapid authorization, enterprises can secure quick protection for their innovations and prevent replication or infringement by competitors, thereby safeguarding their market share and profits. IP PROTECTION OVERSEAS As Chinese enterprises become more involved in global trade, an increasing number are facing IP disputes abroad. The lack of expertise, response capacity, and access to critical information has emerged as a major obstacle, preventing some companies from expanding internationally. To address this, China has established IP centers nationwide to manage disputes and guide Chinese enterprises in safeguarding their IP rights overseas. Besides, the CNIPA has also intensified efforts on training and expert guidance, issuing monitoring reports and reminders to alert enterprises on potential risks. Yutong, a leading electric bus manufacturer, benefited from specialized training by CNIPA's patent examination cooperation center in Henan ahead of the 2023 world bus expo in Belgium. The training, including patent early warning analysis, helped the company manage exhibition risks and boosted its confidence, leading to successful participation at the expo. "Thanks to the training, we realized the importance of IP risk screening for overseas exhibitions," said Zhang Yongqi, the manager of patent management at Yutong. Overseas markets have become the main driver of Yutong's performance growth. Its pure electric buses topped the European market in sales in 2022 and overall sales volume increased by 79 percent year-on-year in 2023. Despite the rise in overseas tariffs, the electric bus maker remains confident, noting that its commitment to quality will continue to drive market success. GROWING RECOGNITION China has been the leading global source of international patent applications since 2019. The surge in global patents has been fueled by increasing IP awareness and a strong commitment to fostering independent innovation. Nihat Deniz Bayramoglu, from Bayramoglu Law Offices LLC based in Las Vegas, has been providing IP consultation services in China since the 2010s. He found that Chinese enterprises are increasingly recognizing the importance of IP protection. "In the past, only large Chinese multinationals were interested in applying for IP rights abroad, and now much smaller Chinese companies are also trying to protect IP rights," the attorney told Xinhua. "In the past, the Chinese companies I represented were only defendants in court cases, and now many of my Chinese clients are plaintiffs in the United States suing American companies for patent infringement," he said. He added that the perception in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s that China did not respect IP rights will gradually be replaced by the fact that "Chinese companies are innovators and leading cutting-edge technology." In China's ongoing journey towards high-end, intelligent and green development, IP continues to play a supportive role. Innovators and companies are increasingly recognizing the value of IP, and actively leveraging it to drive innovation, compete globally and foster economic growth. (Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Kou Jie) This photo taken on March 21, 2024 shows a production line of BYD, China's leading new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- China's major battery maker CATL recently launched a new electric vehicle (EV) chassis that can withstand a high-speed frontal impact at 120 km/h without catching fire, exploding, or causing any spread of damage, injecting new momentum into the innovative development for new energy vehicles (NEVs). The new integrated chassis, named the "Bedrock Chassis," features a design that centers around the battery, directly integrating the battery cells into its structure. This innovation enhances vehicle safety by absorbing 85 percent of the total collision energy in a crash, compared with some 60 percent absorbed by a standard chassis, according to the company. Innovation has become the focal point of China's NEV sector over the past year, highlighted by the country's remarkable achievement of producing over 11 million NEVs in the first 11 months of the year. Among the booming Chinese automakers, BYD reached a milestone last month when its 10-millionth NEV rolled off the production line. Committed to technology as a key driver of its success, BYD plans to invest 100 billion yuan (about 13.9 billion U.S. dollars) to integrate artificial intelligence with automotive technologies, aiming to achieve a comprehensive upgrade in vehicle intelligence, according to the company's chairman Wang Chuanfu. The rapid growth of China's NEV industry is driven not only by the country's strong innovation but also by the government's commitment to green development and sustainable transformation. These efforts have significantly stimulated market demand for NEVs, fueling the industry's expansion. According to official data, China's NEV market share was just over 1 percent in 2015 but has since surged. In July this year, NEVs surpassed fuel-powered vehicles in market share for the first time, with retail sales reaching 878,000 units, accounting for 51.1 percent of the domestic market. "China's active development of NEVs is primarily driven by increasing demand from domestic consumers. In terms of sales structure, the focus is on domestic sales, with exports accounting for a relatively small proportion," said Bai Ming, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce. China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, in collaboration with four other government bodies, launched a nationwide campaign to promote NEVs in rural areas. The initiative aimed to bridge the existing NEV consumption gap in these regions and improve residents' access to green, safe transportation. China's NEV industry has set the course for the global automotive sector, providing foreign enterprises with valuable opportunities and a dynamic platform for innovation. U.S. carmaker Tesla's megafactory in Shanghai has kicked off trial production seven months after its construction started, according to Tesla China. The factory is dedicated to manufacturing Tesla's energy-storage batteries, Megapack, whose mass production is expected to fully start in the first quarter of 2025. Recently, Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) has also announced that it will invest 600 million yuan (about 83.48 million U.S. dollars) in Foxconn New Energy Battery (Zhengzhou) Co., Ltd. Earlier this year, Foxconn announced a 1-billion-yuan investment to build a new business headquarters in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, with a significant focus on car manufacturing. At Dongfeng Nissan, a joint venture located in the southern Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou, the new Dongfeng Nissan N7 is undergoing rigorous testing. Scheduled for launch in the first half of 2025, it will be the automaker's first pure electric vehicle. "China has always maintained an open and cooperative attitude, promoting closer industrial cooperation between domestic and foreign automotive companies and sharing the opportunities for development in the NEV industry," Bai said. Elon Musk is reportedly staying in a cottage at President-elect Donald Trumps estate that rents for $2,000 a day. The worlds richest man, who holds substantial government contracts and appears to have spent more than a quarter of a billion dollars to get Trump and his surrogates elected to office, has been a Trump tenant since the presidential election in November, according to the New York Times. How much hes paying for the space wasnt reported. Billing usually comes when a visitor checks out. By planting himself in a cottage, which is reportedly named Banyan, Musk reportedly lives a short walk from Trumps home and gives him easy access to the 78-year-old Republican leader. Musks personal worth before Trump was elected to office last month was a little over $260 billion. Hes now worth around $430 billion, according to Forbes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having easy access to Trump and Mar-a-Lago has allowed Musk to drop in on meetings the incoming commander-in-chief is hosting. That included a recent dinner Trump had with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos the worlds second-richest man that the Times said Musk wasnt expected to attend. Last week, Trump appeared to ask Musk where he and his son X were while telling the 53-year-old kingmaker he could be missing out on country club functions with other billionaires. Where are you? Trump posted on his social media platform. When are you coming to the Center of the Universe, Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Years Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! Trump has asked the South African entrepreneur to work with fellow billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy to form a department that monitors government spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An October report by House Democrats on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability found several instances where Trump appeared to profit from guests with personal and professional ties staying at his properties. One individual who got a presidential pardon from the President-elect during his previous stint in the White House reportedly spent $15,000 in Trumps Washington, D.C., hotel in late 2017 and early 2018. _____ Emporia city leaders look to diversify board leadership EMPORIA (KSNT) City leaders in Emporia want to make changes to a board that has a vital part in the citys growth. On Dec. 19, Emporia city commissioners sent a letter to the Regional Development Association (RDA) Board, which is a group of members that controls money that emporia provides. However, over the last year and a half, the city has grown concerns about the makeup of the board. The board is essentially the citys steward towards businesses with a heavy focus on large businesses, and according to the citys website, its currently made up of eight members including six men and two women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement December Teacher of the Month: Jamie Bazil In the boards history, 40 members have been men, and only five women. City leaders say they would rather have better representation with more diversity. They also want to focus on people who are qualified and represent multiple perspectives. Secondly, they want more of a say on what happens with taxpayers money. The mayor told 27 News he hopes to make some changes in the next few weeks. If they come back with solutions to our concerns, well move forward as of January 21st. If they do not, we meet as a city commission on January 22nd and we would evaluate our next steps, Mayor Erren Harter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These concerns come at a time not only when employment is down in emporia, but income as well. Since 2007, employment has decreased around 2,500 people, while the median household income is nearly $28,000 less than the national median. By making these changes to the RDA board, the city believes it can better create long-term growth, more above-market paying jobs and sustainable economic development for the city. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. By Ju-min Park and Dogyun Kim MUAN COUNTY, South Korea (Reuters) - Empty desks and a calendar marking days off after Christmas sit in a South Korean office where five co-workers once planned a holiday to Thailand which ended in tragedy on Sunday when their return Jeju Air flight crashed. The five female colleagues, who flew to Bangkok to celebrate promotions, were among the 179 people killed when flight 7C2216 crashed at the Muan International Airport in the deadliest air disaster on South Korean soil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still in shock at the loss of their co-workers and friends, colleagues wearing black ribbons cried at their desks in the public education office on Tuesday, as they watched over a victim's empty desk. White chrysanthemums had been placed on the desk in mourning, while boxes with books and stationery awaited another victim who was supposed to move desks in the New Year. "It doesn't feel real," said Lee Dae-keun, an official at Jeollanamdo Office of Education who worked in the same department as one victim. "She is still lingering in my eyes. Whenever seeing flowers on that empty desk, ah, sadness rushes in." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuters is not naming the victims at the request of colleagues who asked for privacy. The dead employees were an old group of work friends who had been looking forward to their long-awaited trip, said their co-workers. "As a colleague, she was really hard-working and nice, a kind colleague to others," Lee said with a sigh. "She always told me to stay happy and positive." Lee said he had gone to the airport with other co-workers to provide food or charge phones for their colleagues' bereaving families who were camping out. At the office, officials set up an altar where colleagues and neighbours came to pay condolences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bowing in tears at the altar, Lee Kwi-sun, a school chef, vividly remembered her last moment of holding hands with another victim. "Our names are similar. We were like lost siblings that just met now. So we said to meet again, and held each other's hands and laughed and parted ways," she recalled. "I talked to her a lot personally and professionally, so this just breaks my heart," she said (Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Josh Smith and Michael Perry) Five names have been added to the roster of the Erie Police Department following a swearing-in ceremony Monday morning. Police Chief Dan Spizarny said the new recruits have big shoes to fill as they begin their journey as City of Erie police officers. Erie teen charged for alleged DUI hit-and-run that injured another teen Five new police officers have taken their oath at city hall and have officially been hired with the City of Erie Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chief of police said their journey to receiving their badge involved training and that some officers come with previous experience. You know theyve all gone through the police academy and several of them have experience with the local colleges and hospitals working. One officer did 13 years in Wesleyville and hes come to join us, he said. Spizarny said the new officers have big shoes to fill as they are replacing previous officers who have retired. Erie Police asking for information on hit-and-run that injured 70-year-old man The amount of people interested in the job has gone down so its great that there are still people interested in doing the job again. Most of them are younger, they bring that energy to the department where we lose a lot of experience with the older officers that have left but theyre going to pick up and theyre going to continue the tradition of the department, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those new recruits told us what it took to get him where he is today as a City of Erie police officer. I had to go to the North East Mercyhurst Police Academy, that was about six months long after that it was about a six-month hiring process to get into EPD with a state consortium test and a MPOTEC test and then it was just waiting on them to give me the call, said Mitchell Boetcher, a new City of Erie police officer. Boetcher said his calling to become a police officer came later in life and he had many people he looked up to. I wasnt born into it thats for sure, I didnt know as a kid that I wanted to be a cop just a lot of good influences that I had from people that influence me that are Erie police officers and I just wanted to be a part of the team, he went on to say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boetcher said he is looking forward to serving the Erie community and talking to residents. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. The European Union has stated that it is prepared for Ukraine to cease the transit of Russian gas. Source: Deutsche Welle (DW), a German international broadcaster and media outlet, citing a European Commission representative, as reported by European Pravda Details: The European Commission representative said the European infrastructure is flexible enough to allow gas from third countries to flow through alternative routes to Central and Eastern Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The impact of the cessation of transit through Ukraine on the security of EU supplies is limited," she emphasised. The European Commission stated that it has been working in coordination with EU member states for over a year to prepare alternative supply schemes. In addition, measures to improve energy efficiency and expand the use of renewable energy sources have strengthened the reliability of gas supply. Background: The agreement between Ukraine and Russia on the transit of Russian gas expires in 2024. Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine was not considering renewing the transit agreement with Russian energy giant Gazprom and made it clear that Kyiv would not agree to pump Russian gas under the guise of Azerbaijani gas. Against this backdrop, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico sharply criticised Zelenskyy, sent a letter to EU leaders expressing dissatisfaction with Kyiv's actions, and threatened to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine. Fico paid a controversial visit to Russia, where he met with Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin. Support UP or become our patron! Europe will not feel much of an impact when Ukraine cuts gas transit from Russia on Jan. 1, Deutsche Welle reported on Dec. 30, citing a representative of the European Commission. The European Commission has been preparing alternative routes for over a year after Kyiv made it clear that it would not renew its contract with Russian energy giant Gazprom that ends on Jan. 1. European infrastructure allows for the flow of gas from other countries, the European Commission representative said. The EU has increased capacity for liquid natural gas (LNG) imports and its energy security has been bolstered by expanding renewable energy sources. "The impact of the suspension of transit through Ukraine on ensuring the security of EU supplies is limited," she said. Ukraine and Russia signed the deal in 2019 and Moscow has since paid Kyiv roughly $800 million a year to transit its gas to Europe through the Druzhba pipeline, even during the full-scale invasion. However, Ukraine repeatedly emphasized that it will not renew the contract once it expires which will cause Gazprom to lose $5 billion in annual sales. On its final day, Gazprom said it would only send 37.2 million cubic meters (mcm) of gas through the pipeline instead of 42.4 mcm, which it supplied on Dec. 30, Reuters reported. While most EU countries have moved away from Russian energy, the end of the deal will most impact Slovakia. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Dec. 22 to discuss gas supplies, and said on Dec. 27 that Bratislava would cut electricity supplies to Ukraine if Kyiv doesnt renew the deal. Slovakias neighbor and Russias ally, Hungary, will continue to import Russian gas via the TurkStream pipeline. Ukraines Gas Transmission System Operator warned that Ukraines gas transit infrastructure could come under Russian attacks following the end of the deal. "We are taking all measures to ensure the security of our facilities," CEO Dmytro Lyppa said on Dec. 4. Read also: Ukraine quadruples domestic gas transit fees as Russian gas pipeline deal expires Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Fireworks are a popular way to ring in the new year, but if not handled properly they can cause serious injuries and/or fires. Local fire departments are urging everyone to follow some basic guidelines to stay safe this holiday season. So, youre dealing with things that explode or hot and we just dont anybody get hurt. So just be careful with your kids, especially with sparklers. They get really hot. Make sure you put out all your fireworks when youre done. You extinguish them in a bucket of water. And if they dont light, they dont go off. Just make sure you dont go mess with them. Dont try to throw fireworks. Just be safe, Bay County Fire Captain and paramedic Jare Sasnett said. Local New Years Eve events and celebrations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks are responsible for thousands of fires and injuries each year. In Florida, there are select days where people can use fireworks. There are three legal days in the state of Florida, and one of them starts tomorrow, which is New Years Eve and then the day after New Years Day, Bay County Sheriffs P.I.O Ruth Corely said. Last year the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated that 10,000 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries. Especially around the 4th of July and New Years Eve. Over the years, weve had people blow their hands off damages or face, you name it. And typically, its because theyre doing something unsafe or theyre trying to relight things, just use it as directed and only do one at a time and you should be good. Or better yet just leave it to the professionals, Sasnett said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Years Eve Must Dos in Panama City Fireworks are recommended to be lit in an open area away from buildings trees and other flammable materials. With the holidays, everybody kind of gets relaxed. And, you know, get alcohol involved and accidents happen, Sasnett continued. For those planning to purchase fireworks, check to see if they are legal in your area and always buy them from a licensed dealer. In the event of a fire or injury contact 911 immediately. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. Though there is no specific threat, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies remain concerned that New Year's celebrations in Times Square on Tuesday could be targeted by people seeking to carry out large protests or acts of violence, according to a copy of an interagency threat assessment. The assessment, compiled and produced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security each year, reviews the types of threats and potential security concerns with the annual ball drop in midtown Manhattan. The New York Police Departments assessment included in the DHS memo is that the city and the United States broadly continue "to face a heightened and dynamic threat environment amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts, which may contribute to mobilizing a variety of extremists and malicious actors to violence against mass gatherings, iconic locations, and high-profile events. Workers run tests Monday ahead of the New Year's Eve ball drop in New York's Times Square. DHS said its concern about people who may attempt "simple, unsophisticated attacks that are difficult to detect in advance stems from the political climate in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israel-Hamas conflict has created a heightened threat environment; therefore, the Intelligence Community remains concerned about lone offenders encouraging threats of violence against Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Arab communities in response to the ongoing conflict," the agency said. Mayor Eric Adams lauded his citys first responders Monday and said Times Square will be safe for those ringing in 2025 in the iconic celebration. Well make sure each one of those who come here to visit and enjoy the ball drop will be safe, he said. Therell be officers in uniform and out of uniform. Were going to make sure we have the omnipresence of the blue uniform. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Monday that although there are no specific threats for the celebration, police have been operating under a heightened threat environment and remain vigilant. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com SANAA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- A U.S.-British naval coalition conducted two airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeidah province late Monday, targeting the At-Tuhayta district in the southwest of the province, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported. The report did not provide further details, but residents in the district said on social media that two powerful explosions shook their homes. The U.S. Central Command has not yet commented on the incidents but typically issues a statement later to confirm any airstrike conducted by its forces. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been regularly launching rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. In retaliation, the U.S.-led naval coalition in the region has been conducting regular air raids on Houthi military targets since January in an effort to deter the group. Austin's annual New Year celebration will kick off at 7 p.m. at Auditorium Shores. The free event will feature musical performances from DJ Mel, Angelica Rahe, Gina Chavez and the iconic 90s rock band Third Eye Blind. A countdown to midnight will begin at 11:55 p.m. and end with a fireworks show over Lady Bird Lake. Here's everything you need to know if you plan to attend the event: Street closures, limited neighborhood street access West Riverside Drive from Lee Barton Drive to South First Street will be closed from 6 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday. South First Street from Cesar Chavez Street to Riverside Drive will be closed from 10:30 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday. Dawson Road and Bouldin Avenue, from Barton Springs Road to West Gibson Street, will be limited to local access only and closed to parking. Map: New Year's fireworks street closures Two major thoroughfares in South Austin will be partially closed from Tuesday evening until 1 a.m. on Wednesday for the New Year's fireworks. Getting to the event Those who are driving to the event are urged to park at one of five locations: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Texas Center (505 Barton Springs Rd) Palmer Events Center garage (736-820 Barton Springs Rd) RiverSouth garage (425 W Riverside Dr) City Hall garage (301 W 2nd St) State garage N (300 San Antonio St) CapMetro also is offering free rides after 5 p.m. with bus routes operating on a normal schedule and rail service extended until 2:30 a.m. on Jan. 1. The portion of Lady Bird Lake between the railroad trestle bridge and the South First Street bridge will be closed to all watercraft from 10:30 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday. What to bring and not bring Event attendees can bring blankets and chairs but should leave alcohol and pets behind. Glass, fireworks and sparklers also are prohibited. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: What to know Austin's free New Year event: Street closures, lineup January 1 will mark the first day of an expansion of Medicaid in Minnesota that is designed to benefit children up to the age of 6. The Minnesota Department of Human Services announced this week that children who are eligible for Medical Assistance (MA) Minnesota's Medicaid program will now have uninterrupted coverage until the age of 6. It comes after the Biden Administration authorized Minnesota's expansion of Medicaid coverage for children beyond the minimum 12 months required by federal law, with Gov. Tim Walz having signed the expansion into law in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the same law change, qualifying 19-and 20-year-olds will be given MA eligibility for 12 months at a time. "We know that consistent access to health care and regular check-ups improve childrens health outcomes, support school readiness and advance health equity," said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. "This new policy takes a big step toward those goals." The DHS says that the new policy will allow young children to maintain their healthcare access even in the event their parents or guardians have a gap in their health care coverage. The first phase of the law took effect last January, and allows qualifying children aged 6-19 to remain eligible for Medicaid for 12 months at a time. Localizer Tragedy In South Korea, a jet quite literally crashed and burned when it hit a wall that was placed at the end of an airport runway, killing 179 passengers. As the BBC reports, the pilot of the Jeju Air plane reported to the control tower at Muan International Airport that the Boeing 787-800 jet had struck a bird and needed to make an emergency landing. Despite failing to deploy its wheels and other gear, the emergency landing was looking okay until the plane crashed into the concrete structure atop a dirt embankment at the end of the runway. That wall held a navigational system called a localizer that's meant, ironically, to help planes land safely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While localizer structures are common at airports, they're generally not supposed to be placed at the end of runways like the one at Muan, experts told the BBC. Air safety specialist David Learmont told the broadcaster that if the "obstruction," as he called the localizer structure, hadn't been positioned in such an inopportune place at the end of the runway, the jet "would have come to rest with most possibly all those on board still alive." Christian Beckert, a Lufthansa pilot out of Germany, was even more blunt: "Normally, on an airport with a runway at the end, you don't have a wall." Hard and Fast Beyond the positioning of the structure itself, longtime pilot Chris Kingswood told the BBC that there was something else strange about the wall: that it was just so hard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Obstacles within a certain range and distance of the runway are required to be frangible," the veteran pilot said, "which means that if an aircraft strikes them that they do break." "It does seem unusual that it's such a rigid thing," he continued. "The aircraft, from what I understand, was travelling very fast, landed a long way down the runway, so it will have gone a long way past the end of the runway." In the wake of the stunning crash, which is one of the world's worst in recent years, reports emerged that Muan officials had previously flagged that the wall was indeed too close to the runway. Instead of changing it immediately, however, the embankment was to be "reviewed" upon a planned expansion. More on planes: Dimwit Americans Are Looking at the Night Sky and Mistaking Stars and Airplanes for "Drones" Donald Trumps plan to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations could provide the legal framework to allow the U.S. to conduct military operations in Mexico, according to experts. For years, the President-elect has threatened to designate cartels that traffic illicit drugs into the U.S. foreign terrorist organizations. That distinction would allow the government to place additional economic and social sanctions on them. Doing so also bolsters the presidents authority to carry out military operations on those involved with a terrorist organization, including foreign states suspected of supporting such organizations. The president can also preemptively deploy military force against terrorist organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Undoubtedly, such action would strain the U.S.Mexico relationship by increasing hostility. Former Mexican ambassador to the U.S., Geronimo Gutierrez told El Pais it would set the relationship back three decades. Donald Trump has threatened to take aggressive action against drug trafficking and illegal migrant crossings (Getty Images) In 2019, Trump nearly designated Mexican drug cartels as terrorists but backed out after compromising with Mexico. However, earlier this month, the president-elect pitched the idea again, this time at a conference for Turning Point USA in Arizona. "I will immediately designate the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations," Trump said. Were going to do it immediately and unleash the full power of federal law enforcement, ICE, border patrol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump campaigned aggressively on combating illegal immigration and drug trafficking, specifically related to fentanyl. He is holding Mexico accountable in the efforts to stop drug influx into the U.S., already promising to enact a 25 percent tariff on Mexican imported goods despite the country being one of the U.S.s largest trading partners. But designating cartels as terrorists would be one step further. Designating cartels as terrorist organizations would be a strategic error with unpredictable consequences for both countries, a senior official at the Mexican Embassy told El Pais. Trumps Agenda47 includes his action plan to destroy drug cartels. By labeling them terrorists, it would allow military operations on Mexican soil. (Trump campaign) The purpose of designating an organization as a terrorist organization is primarily to stop the flow of money and allow federal prosecutors to pursue criminal penalties against cartel members and allies. It also provides legal backing for the president to carry out military operations specifically under the Authorization for Use of Military Force of 2001 Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The broad act supports the president conducting operations against individuals and organizations linked to those who conducted the September 11 attacks. However, it has been widely interpreted to be applied to other terrorist groups. For example, under the act, the Biden administration carried out airstrikes in Somalia as part of an effort to defeat Al-Shabaab, a terrorist group. It does not permit the president to invade or declare war on a country without the approval of Congress. The senior official at the Mexican Embassy said Trumps idea mixes concepts that respond to different dynamics. Organized crime seeks profit, not ideology, and treating it as terrorism only diverts resources and attention from real solutions, the official said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded Sunday, elevating the need for collaboration between the two countries to fight drug trafficking. We collaborate, we coordinate, we work together, but we will never subordinate ourselves, Sheinbaum said. Mexico is a free, sovereign, independent country and we do not accept interference. It is collaboration, it is coordination, but it is not subordination. And we are going to build peace. Former CNN star Don Lemon gleefully celebrated with plenty of expletives after the MAGA squad squabbled over H1-B visas this week. On YouTubes The Don Lemon Show, he laughed at Donald Trumps right-wing internet squad over their newfound rage with the visas that allow companies to hire foreign workers for certain jobs. Some farmers say without these workers, they have about two days that they can run their farm, and then after that its over, Lemon said, falling back in his chair from laughter. Now youre finding out, you dumb f--king idiots. Now youre just figuring this s--t out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then went on to say that the Trump supporters in question were so f--king stupid and deserved it. Yes, I am gloating over your stupidity, he continued. Lemon was reacting to a weekend during which many in Trumps inner circle fought over U.S. immigration policy, with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy coming out as staunch supporters of foreign workers. The billionaire duos stance prompted fierce backlash from the likes of Steve Bannon and the more dogmatic conservative wing of the Republican partyprompting a war of words between the two warring sides. Musk was caught agreeing with a tweet that called Americans too retarded to staff the U.S. tech industry without visa-holders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the climax of his weekend posting, Musk even told an X user who disagreed with him to F--K YOURSELF in the face. In typical fashion, the president-elect followed up Musks comments with support for the SpaceX founders stance. Ive always liked the visas, I have always been in favor of the visas. Thats why we have them, Trump said. The reason Im in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B. Take a big step back and FUCK YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 28, 2024 Lemon appeared to agree with the president-elect, slamming those who came out in opposition to the hiring of foreign workers. You have been co-opted because youre in a f--king cult, Lemon continued, And you dont even realize it because you have stupid MAGA brain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon, for example, called the H1-B visas a scam. Let me just restate something, as a fact. The H1B visa program is a total and complete scam from its top to the bottom, Bannon said. Claim: Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt announced a new program that would require the state's high school students to have an acceptance offer for a college, trade school or the military in order to graduate. Rating: Rating: Mostly False What's True: Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt did tell a reporter he was "thinking about" making it a requirement that high school students have an acceptance offer for a college, trade school or the military in order to graduate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What's False: However, a spokesperson for Stitt later clarified his comments by saying it was "an idea he threw out there" and that the governor's office has no plans to make it mandatory for high school students to have a college, trade school or military offer in order to graduate. The proposal is not currently a part of Oklahoma law. In late December 2024, social media users shared a rumor that Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt had announced a new program that would require the state's high school students to have an acceptance offer for a college, trade school or the military in order to graduate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One X post (which has since been removed but had amassed nearly 340,000 views at the time of being archived) featuring the claim read: BREAKING: Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announces a program that would require High School students to do 1 of 3 things to graduate. - Get accepted into a college. - Get accepted into a trade school. - if the student can't do either college or trade school, they must join the army to graduate. Other examples of the rumor appeared on Reddit (archived) and TikTok (archived), the latter of which had amassed more than 434,000 likes as of this writing. The TikTok post was amplified by MSNBC correspondent Joy Ann Reid, whose Instagram post (archived) featuring the same video had garnered more than 28,000 likes at the time of this writing. In short, Stitt did make such comments during an interview; however, his spokesperson later clarified that this was just an idea and that there were no plans to only allow high school students to graduate if they had an acceptance offer for a college, trade school or the military. Therefore, we have rated this claim as a mixture of true and false information. Origins of the Claim The rumor originated from a report by the Fox-affiliated Oklahoma news station KOKH-TV, also known as KOKH Fox 25, which said that during an interview with the governor, the Republican politician told the outlet that he was considering introducing a requirement for high school students to have an acceptance offer for a college, trade school or the military in order to graduate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KOKH-TV's interview with Stitt focused on his "Classroom to Careers" initiative, which the governor posted about on X in late December 2024. However, Abegail Cave, a spokesperson for Stitt's office, said the governor simply intended to say that he wanted to ensure kids have a plan after graduating from high school. "No, [the governor] was not saying that it's mandatory a kid goes to trade school, or that a kid goes to college," Cave said in a phone interview with Snopes. "I want to be very clear: We are not mandating military service for Oklahoma students." Cave posted a similar statement on her X account. To clarify - Gov. Stitt is not suggesting that we mandate military service. He wants to see that every kid graduating from high school has a plan, whether that be college, career tech, military service, or workforce. Don't believe everything you see on the internet folks. https://t.co/5jUqffOGx3 Abegail Cave (@abegailcave) December 31, 2024 Footage of Stitt's interview, which is available on Fox 25 News reporter David Chasanov's YouTube page, shows the politician saying: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I'm always talking about classrooms to careers. I want every kid ready for a career, and so I'm thinking about even making it a requirement to graduate from Oklahoma high schools. You've got to either be accepted to college, or you have to be accepted into a career tech or you have to be going into the army. You have to have some kind of plan post-graduation to go get a great job. But Cave said Stitt's office does not currently plan to introduce postsecondary acceptance into college, career tech or the military as part of the state's graduation requirements. "[The governor] just wants to make sure kids have a pathway. It was an idea he threw out there in discussion with a reporter," Cave said, adding that people may also be conflating Stitt's comments with the state's recent efforts to update graduation requirements. Sources: David Chasanov. "Governor Stitt Talks 'Classrooms to Careers' Idea, Full Interview." YouTube, 30 Dec. 2024, www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0cXImCTKxc. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "Individual Career & Academic Plan." CareerTech, 15 May 2023, oklahoma.gov/careertech/educators/business-marketing-and-it-education/program-of-study.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma State Department of Education . 2026 CORE Curriculum Graduation Requirements. sde.ok.gov/sites/default/files/2026-core-curriculum-graduation-req%20%281%29.pdf. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT of EDUCATION ICAP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)." Oklahoma EDGE, 2019, www.okedge.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ICAP-2019-FAQs3.pdf. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Pugh, Adam, and Rhonda Baker. HB 3278. 15 May 2024, www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=HB3278&Session=2400. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. 'X.Com'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://x.com/GovStitt/status/1872677609324105977. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024. Claim: A photo authentically shows a massive fire at a 57,000-square-foot Temu warehouse in China. Rating: Rating: Fake A rumor circulating online in late 2024 claimed to show a photo of a massive fire at a warehouse for the e-commerce discount retailer Temu in China. Users who posted the picture shared a caption poking fun at the inexpensiveness of Temu goods: "A 57,000-square-foot Temu warehouse in China went up in flames today. The total loss of inventory has been estimated to be as high as $56.19 USD." At least one user's post mentioned the number "$246.19 USD," while another user joked the losses amounted to "$352.45 or after a spin $38.76" a reference to a spin-the-wheel feature Temu displays to offer deals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, a Dec. 29 post (archived) from X user @DocAtCDI displayed the same image and text. The post received over 2.7 million views and 102,000 likes. A traditional Google search and a reverse-image search displayed numerous results for the same rumor, including on the America's best pics and videos website, Facebook, iFunny, Imgur, Instagram, Threads, X and YouTube. Many users who viewed the photo submitted comments indicating they believed in the authenticity of the fire story. For example, one user said, "Bad news for the insurers but was it really an accident? A different user who apparently didn't read the second sentence of one of the posts mentioning the joke of the $56.19 in "total loss of inventory" remarked, "That's $37.64 in total." However, the picture was fake. Not only did the letters on the logos display in a strange manner but the lower-right corner of the image showed a watermark for Grok the generative artificial-intelligence chatbot created by Elon Musk's company, xAI. Further, a Google News search located no reports of a recent fire at a Temu warehouse. Credit Where Credit Is Due The Waterford Whispers News YouTube channel previously published a video on Sept. 3 promoting the same sort of joke about a Temu warehouse fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A man presenting the news in a humorous fashion remarked in the clip, "And just in now, a Temu warehouse burns to the ground, costing tens of euros of damage. Chinese firefighters spent hours battling the blaze, which destroyed thousands of items at a total cost of almost 56 euros. Temu has advised customers that there's now an extra 8-week delay on top of the usual 10-week delay on all products, including french fry sportswear, tortilla baby blankets" and other items. While we were not yet able to identify which user first posted the photo circulating in late December, a search of X did locate an earlier X post (archived) from Dec. 28 displaying a different picture of a burning Temu warehouse. That photo also showed odd text characters and a watermark for Grok, indicating it, too, was a fake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For further reading, we recommend our article describing four tips for spotting AI-generated pictures. Sources: Voiceflow Team. "xAI Grok: What It Is and How To Use It [Tutorial] | Voiceflow." Voiceflow, 2 July 2024, https://www.voiceflow.com/articles/grok. Claim: A letter called "The Brown Round-Up Part 1" urging people to track and report "brown folks" they suspect are undocumented is authentic and was being distributed in an Oregon county. Rating: Rating: True Context: Officials in Lincoln County, Oregon, started receiving copies of the letter in early December 2024 and the sheriff's office condemned its contents. The author, or authors, of the message remains unknown and there is no active investigation into it because sending such a message is protected by the First Amendment. However, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office warned that acting upon the letter's instructions may violate Oregon's legal protections for immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late December 2024, a letter called "The Brown Round-Up Part 1" was circulating online, purportedly encouraging white people to surveil and report "brown illegals" to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. One X user who shared the document wrote (archived): "This is the full letter being distributed around Lincoln County Oregon." This is the full letter being distributed around Lincoln County Oregon pic.twitter.com/VlvbzFldzZ Rachel Bitecofer (@RachelBitecofer) December 20, 2024 Snopes readers asked us to verify the authenticity of the message, which also appeared on Facebook (archived). News outlets such as The New York Times (archived), The Guardian and The Seattle Times also published reports about the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In short, the document is real and first appeared in Lincoln County, a rural Oregon community. Lincoln County Sheriff Curtis Landers and Rod Cross, mayor of the Lincoln County town of Toledo, both confirmed that the letter was sent to them. Therefore, we have rated this claim as true. 'The Brown Round-Up' Letter Landers said via email that he received the letter in his "personal post office box" in mid-December 2024. The sheriff added that, as far as he knows, it has circulated only in Lincoln County. Cross also said via email that he received a copy in his mailbox in the early morning of Dec. 8, 2024. The author or authors of the communication remain unknown. Landers and Cross both provided Snopes with copies of the document they received, which matches the letter Snopes readers sent us and the one circulating online that can be seen below. Starting the last part of January of 2025, this nation will commence the largest round-up of brown illegals in our history. How can you help? Start identifying those folks who you suspect are here in our country on an illegal basis. Church, sit in your church's parking lot and write down the license plates # of the brown folks. This is extremely important if you attend a catholic churchmany brown folks are catholics!! Shopping, again if you see a bunch of brown folks getting in a car write down the plate #. Schools, as you wait in line to pick up the kiddos or the grandkiddos if you see brown folks record the plate # Your neighborhood-you know where the brown folks live in your neighborhood-again record the plate #s If you see a construction crew and/or a landscaping crew who have brown folks -write down the name of the company and a phone # We have received information brown folks, who are currently in Idaho and Montana, are planning to move to our state because they believe it will be (Lincoln County Sheriff Curtis Landers) The sheriff's office has not received complaints from residents regarding the letter, and Cross said he has not heard of any residents receiving the message, so it is unclear how widely it has circulated within Lincoln County. However, other elected officials received the note, Cross and Landers said, including Lincoln City Mayor Susan Wahlke. Snopes reached out to Wahlke and will update this story if she responds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Landers said his office notified the FBI of the letter's existence for awareness, there is no open investigation into the document's origins because sending it is covered by the First Amendment's freedom of speech protections. Oregon's Legal Protections for Immigrants Some Snopes readers asked us whether the "round-up" is actually happening. As we have previously reported, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump did promise to begin "the largest domestic deportation operation in American history" of "illegal alien migrants." However, Landers said his office had not received any reports or complaints of white residents reporting or surveilling nonwhite residents. It is also worth noting that while the letter itself is protected speech, actually acting on what the message calls for may be against Oregon law. In a statement condemning the letter, Landers called it "harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants." The statement from the sheriff's office also notes its commitment to following Oregon law, which protects immigrants from activities like those called for in the note: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We strongly advise against engaging in activities such as those outlined in this letter, including collecting or sharing information about individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status. In addition to valuing diversity and equity, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office is committed to upholding Oregon law with regard to immigration enforcement. Oregon law generally prohibits the inquiry or collection of an individual's immigration or citizenship status, or country of birth, with few specific exceptions as outlined in Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823. Consistent with this, the Sheriff's Office does not inquire about, document, or share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These provisions are embedded in our policy manual and are essential to ensuring that our practices respect the rights and dignity of all individuals. According to Oregon's Department of Justice, the state was the first in the U.S. to pass a sanctuary law preventing local police and government from helping federal authorities with immigration enforcement. In 2021, the state strengthened its sanctuary laws and established a statewide hotline to report possible sanctuary law violations. The state also provides a "Community Toolkit" to help immigrants understand their rights. The tool kit notes that while Oregon's laws prevent local authorities from helping U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement without an order signed by a judge, the laws do not stop deportations or federal prosecutions as federal immigration authorities can still operate in Oregon. The letter's contents also were condemned by Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. Likewise, the FBI said in a statement through Flash Alert, which distributes news releases from government agencies and law enforcement across the country, that it is "aware of the offensive and racist mailings sent to individuals and organizations in Lincoln County, Oregon," and advised community members who feel physically threatened to "report those concerns to their nearest local law enforcement agency." Sources: "AG Rosenblum: Hateful Letter-Writing Campaign Has No Place Anywhere in Oregon - Oregon Department of Justice." Oregon Department of Justice, 21 Dec. 2024, www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rosenblum-hateful-letter-writing-campaign-has-no-place-anywhere-in-oregon/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "FBI - Oregon News via Flashalert.net." Flashalert.net, 20 Dec. 2024, flashalert.net/id/FBIOregon. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landers, Curtis. "Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Oregon." Facebook.com, 19 Dec. 2024, www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/posts/pfbid0AAgMT4jwkpx6ZHUY5yUH6NrABGsBiitz2BhoobSRRw4REkuaDquyTttUouMaLqSPl. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "Sanctuary Promise." Oregon Department of Justice, www.doj.state.or.us/oregon-department-of-justice/civil-rights/sanctuary-promise/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Claim: U.S. flags at the Capitol will fly at half-staff for President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, due to the death of former President Jimmy Carter. Rating: Rating: False Context: On Jan. 14, 2025, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced flags at the Capitol will be heightened on Inauguration Day, pausing a 30-day proclamation to have them at half-staff in honor of Carter. Following the death of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter on Dec. 29, 2024, discussions started over whether flags would fly at half-staff to honor him during President-elect Donald Trump's swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump himself reportedly complained about lower flags during inauguration events on Jan. 20, 2025, claiming on Truth Social (archived) that "Democrats are all 'giddy' about our magnificent American Flag potentially being at 'half mast' during my Inauguration." A little more than a week later, on Jan. 14, House Speaker Mike Johnson said (archived) flags at the Capitol would fly at full-staff on Inauguration Day. The flags will be lowered back to half-staff the following day, Johnson wrote. Given Johnson's order, we rate this claim as false. (X user @SpeakerJohnson) The order followed a proclamation by President Joe Biden stating that U.S. flags on all public buildings would be flown at half-staff for 30 days after Carter's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden's directive, issued on the same day as Carter's death, read in part (emphasis ours): NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, in honor and tribute to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr., and as an expression of public sorrow, do hereby direct that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. I also direct that, for the same length of time, the representatives of the United States in foreign countries shall make similar arrangements for the display of the flag at halfstaff over their embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations. Before Johnson's order, flags at the Capitol were set to be at half-staff on the day of Trump's inauguration. That was because Carter died on Dec. 29, and the half-staff proclamation lasts until Jan. 28, 2025. For that reason, we previously rated (archived) the claim true. Also before Johnson's announcement, Snopes reached out to the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies for its policy on U.S. flags at the Jan. 20 inauguration. We will update this article if we receive a reply. According to The American Presidency Project at the University of California, Santa Barbara, former President Dwight D. Eisenhower was the first president to regularize the 30-day half-staff procedure following presidential deaths. This was seen in Proclamation 3044, issued in 1954. Sources: Buji, Bujo. "How Appropo!!! ." Facebook, 30 Dec. 2024, https://www.facebook.com/marie.bujo.1/posts/pfbid0WdoFktPMD8trjtVgWE5yqeZrVSxNzzYVcFo7EzRjoLNMKQ4NDrvhyrYJuPwPdGKtl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Executive Order [on the Deaths of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams] | The American Presidency Project. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/executive-order-the-deaths-thomas-jefferson-and-john-adams#:~:text=Tuesday%20succeeding%20the,at%20half%2Dmast. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Field, Nick. "One Last Gift from Jimmy Carter, All Flags Will Be at Half-Staff on Inauguration Day." X, 29 Dec. 2024, https://x.com/nick_field90/status/1873475878673674514. Johnson, Mike. "On January 20th, the Flags at the Capitol Will Fly at Full-Staff to Celebrate Our Country Coming Together behind the Inauguration of Our 47th President, Donald Trump. ." X, 14 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1879195077446389850. Presidential Orders upon the Death of a President | The American Presidency Project. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/analyses/presidential-orders-upon-the-death-president. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Proclamations." National Archives, 15 Aug. 2016, https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/proclamations/03044.html. The White House. "Proclamation Announcing the Death of James Earl Carter, Jr." The White House, 30 Dec. 2024, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/12/29/proclamation-announcing-the-death-of-james-earl-carter-jr/. Trump, Donald J. "The Democrats Are All 'Giddy' about Our Magnificent American Flag Potentially Being at 'Half Mast' during My Inauguration." Truth Social, https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113765847370756395. Accessed 16 Jan. 2025. u/PlayaSlayaX. "U.S. Flags Will Fly at Half-Staff for Jimmy Carter During Donald Trump's Inauguration." Reddit, 29 Dec. 2024, https://www.reddit.com/r/politics/comments/1hp8xh0/us_flags_will_fly_at_halfstaff_for_jimmy_carter/. Updates: Jan. 16, 2025: This report was updated to reflect House Speaker Mike Johnson's announcement that flags will fly at full-staff on Inauguration Day. Claim: A statement issued by the office of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, marked the Dec. 29, 2024, death of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and mistakenly extended condolences to former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who died in 2023. Rating: Rating: True A rumor circulating online claimed the office of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott mistakenly sent condolences to deceased former U.S. first lady Rosalynn Carter following the Dec. 29, 2024, death of her husband, former President Jimmy Carter. Rosalynn Carter died at 96 on Nov. 19, 2023. Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, died at 100 on Dec. 29, 2024, and holds the title of the oldest-ever U.S. president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One reader emailed Snopes, "Did Gov. Abbott really send condolences to Rosalynn Carter on Jimmy's death even though she's been dead over a year?" Another reader sent, "Did Texas Governor Gregg Abbot send condolences to Rosalynn Carter on Jimmy Carter's passing even though she's deceased?" The second reader included a link to a Yahoo-hosted article published by The Daily Beast, reading, "Texas Gov Mistakenly Sends Condolences to Jimmy Carter's Dead Wife." Our search of Abbott's X profile located a post offering "prayers and deepest condolences to the entire Carter family." The post also featured a link to a full statement on the website for Abbott's gubernatorial office. President Carter led a life marked by selfless service to the American people and leaves behind a great legacy. Cecilia and I send our deepest condolences to the entire Carter family. My full statement: https://t.co/JNRs5pzKtG pic.twitter.com/rW70tm5Rg7 Gov. Greg Abbott (@GovAbbott) December 30, 2024 A search for the same statement link on the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine a tool archiving previous versions of websites revealed Abbott's office truly did mistakenly originally offer "prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family." The original statement read: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cecilia and I mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter alongside millions of Americans across the country. Our nation remains the greatest beacon of freedom and opportunity in the world because of our fearless chief executives who are our guiding force through the best and worst of times. For that, we owe President Carter our enduring gratitude for his service as the 39th President of the United States. Having led a life marked by selfless service to the American people, President Carter leaves behind a great legacy as a husband, father, naval officer, governor, and Nobel prize winner, and he will be greatly missed by many. Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family. We contacted Abbott's office to inquire about the error. Our email asked if they prepared the statement prior to Rosalynn Carter's death, similar to how some news organizations write what the Poytner Institute calls "advance obituaries" for prominent figures years before their deaths. We will update this story if we receive a response. Sources: Barrow, Bill, and Alex Sanz. "Jimmy Carter, the 39th US President, Has Died at 100." The Associated Press, 29 Dec. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-dies-18c198c20352c835bca3eec276020dd7. "Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter Passes Away at Age 96." The Carter Center, 19 Nov. 2023, https://www.cartercenter.org/news/pr/2023/statement-rosalynn-carter-111923.html. Fu, Angela. "Some News Organizations Have Hundreds of Obituaries Ready to Publish." Poynter, 26 Sept. 2022, https://www.poynter.org/reporting-editing/2022/why-newspapers-write-publish-advance-prewritten-obits/. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Governor Abbott Statement On Passing Of Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter." Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott, 29 Dec. 2024, https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-statement-on-passing-of-former-u.s-president-jimmy-carter. "---." Internet Archive Wayback Machine, Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott, 29 Dec. 2024, https://web.archive.org/web/20241230011429/https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-statement-on-passing-of-former-u.s-president-jimmy-carter. Marchionni, Doreen. "Jimmy Carter, Longest-Lived US President, Dead at 100." Snopes, 29 Dec. 2024, https://www.snopes.com/news/2024/12/29/jimmy-carter-dead-at-age-100/. Murphy, Joe. "The 10 Presidents Who Lived the Longest and the Shortest." NBC News, 29 Dec. 2024, https://www.nbcnews.com/data-graphics/10-presidents-lived-longest-shortest-rcna72540. This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows a C909 aircraft landing at the Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. China's domestically produced C909 aircraft successfully landed in Brunei for the first time after its cross-sea flight from Guangzhou, China, on Tuesday. This is the first time China's homegrown C909 aircraft has landed in Brunei. Brunei held a ceremony at the Brunei International Airport to celebrate the successful maiden flight of the direct route between Guangdong and Brunei's capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. (Xinhua/Li Meng) BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- China's domestically produced C909 aircraft successfully landed in Brunei for the first time after its cross-sea flight from Guangzhou, China, on Tuesday. This is the first time China's homegrown C909 aircraft has landed in Brunei. Brunei held a ceremony at the Brunei International Airport to celebrate the successful maiden flight of the direct route between Guangdong and Brunei's capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. Chinese Ambassador to Brunei Xiao Jianguo said at the ceremony that the direct flight marks a new step in connectivity under the Belt and Road Cooperation between China and Brunei. It is also the first-ever landing on Brunei's territory of the China-made C909 commercial aircraft, demonstrating the strong interest of Chinese airline companies in exploring Brunei's market. At present, Brunei has established flight routes with multiple places in China, including in Guangxi Province and Zhejiang Province. AUSTIN (KXAN) The family of a man shot and killed in Bastrop County earlier this year gathered Monday at the Bastrop County courthouse to demand justice and announced they filed a civil lawsuit against the mother of the teenager accused in his death. On Sept. 16, the Bastrop County Sheriffs Office responded to the deadly shooting in western Bastrop County and said Steven Allan Smith, 41, died from a gunshot wound. A 13-year-old boy was accused of being involved in the shooting. The Bastrop County Sheriffs Office previously said it could not provide many details about the teen because he was a juvenile. BCSO said he was released to juvenile authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austin NAACP calls for thorough investigation into killing of a Bastrop man The family is still mourning and said they are desperate for more answers. Victims rights attorney Chris Tolbert said, currently, the teen has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and not murder. 41-year-old Steven Smith was shot and killed outside of home. (Photo provided by: Smith Family). Tolbert said during the briefing the lawsuit against the teens mother is based off a prevention law that can hold a parent accountable for being negligent or irresponsible by allowing a minor to get ahold of a firearm. As a whole, Smiths family is suing the mother for negligence, as well as wrongful death, Tolbert said. The family of Steven Allan Smith gathered at the courthouse in Bastrop County Monday to announce they are filing a lawsuit against the mother of the teen accused in shooting him. (KXAN photo/Frank Martinez) The family of Steven Allan Smith gathered at the courthouse in Bastrop County Monday to announce they are filing a lawsuit against the mother of the teen accused in shooting him. (KXAN photo/Frank Martinez) The family of Steven Allan Smith gathered at the courthouse in Bastrop County Monday to announce they are filing a lawsuit against the mother of the teen accused in shooting him. (KXAN photo/Frank Martinez) Smiths aunt said although the family is still in the midst of their grief, their work is just beginning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We continue to deal with the loss of life, you know, that missing piece you cant replace, Windy Hill said during the briefing. So for many of us, were struggling with that grief. But at the same time, we know our voices must be raised to ensure there is justice for Steven. In October, the Austin NAACP joined growing calls for a thorough investigation into Smiths death. When KXAN spoke to the Bastrop County District Attorney then, he could not go into specifics about the case since the investigation was still active. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. BIG SPRING, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The family of 52-year-old Steven Anthony Rodriguez, a Big Spring man who went missing five months ago, is asking the community for any information that could help find their much-loved Steven. Steven Anthony Rodriguez is a 52-year-old male with brown hair and brown eyes, weighs around 175 pounds, and is 5 feet, 10 inches tall. Steven was last seen near the 18th Street DK store in Big Spring Texas and his family is speaking out in hopes that the community can help find him. Eliazar Rodriguez, the father of Steven, said his son is a disabled veteran and has not heard from or seen him since June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We just never heard anymorewe got concerned and we did check his Navy Federal Credit Union statement, Eliazar said. He would use some of that money, you know, to live onfor being a disabled veteranwe noticed that there was nothing being taken out and so we got more concerned and we went to talk to the police Eliazar said that after three months of waiting and contacting the local city council members about their missing son, the family was able to receive a case number and speak with an official. We just dont know where hes at hes been goneI think five months now- No word, no activity on his statementsand like I said thats not Stevenhes a veteran so he is on medication and I dont know if hes taking any medicationIm just asking, if anybody knows, or Steven himself if he hears us, just give us a call Eliazar said. We just want to know hes okay Right now, we dont think he iswe think something may have happened to himsocall methats all we want. If you have any information regarding Steven or his whereabouts, please contact the Big Spring Police Department at 432-264-2550, or Stevens family at, 432-816-2598 immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. Its a white supremacist group calling itself RAM a swaggering, belligerent acronym for the Rise Again Movement that to all appearances is a cluster of melaninobsessed men dedicated to the brand of brutish mayhem that white supremacists amp up for. A man who co-founded RAM in Southern California just wound up in court, where he pleaded guilty to conspiring to riot, having attended a Huntington Beach rally in March 2016 where he and others of his ilk pursued and assaulted people, including one protester he tackled and punched multiple times. Takeaway: Dont ever let the Pacific-blue geopolitics of California surprise you. Dismay or appall you, sure, but never surprise you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like a taut earthquake fault that too often unbelts itself and cuts loose with repellent force, a deep lode of hate and racist one-upmanship undergirds Southern California. This is not of recent stamp only. The slow-walk destruction of Native Americans, Los Angeles 1871 Chinese massacre and the marginalizing and demonizing of Latinos and Asians dont square with the kumbaya California vibe. RAM is the latest dot connected on a long, zigzag line that courses up and down the state, from border north to border south. L.A.s early Confederate sympathies were never extinguished by the Union victory. With the Klan revival in the American South and Midwest in the 1920s, California rode the wave, too. The state had about 200,000 members in the mid-1920s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locally, a thousand white hoods bloomed, in beach cities, in Inglewood where KKKsters put up Caucasian-only signs around town and in Orange County, in Anaheim especially, where Klansmen briefly held a majority of City Council seats before their recall by mortified voters and civic leaders. In the same city almost a century later, in February 2016, modern-day KKK members staging a white lives matter rally brawled with counterprotesters. At least one of them was stabbed with a flagpole topped by an American eagle. Theres a pattern to these white supremacist groups. They rise, fragment, submerge, reconstitute, reemerge, sometimes with different names, different uniforms, but the same cast, and same sentiments. So lets start off with Southern Californias most notorious white-race crusader a title some of the new crowd looks to be trying to win for themselves. A Venn diagram of the career of Tom Metzger, on-and-off-again Klansman, would be a tangle of overlaps and crossovers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Metzger lived in Fallbrook, in San Diego County, and unlike the hooded Klan and present-day masked supremacists, he didnt hide his face; he put it out on cable TV and for news cameras. In 1993, after the FBI arrested white supremacists accused of planning to bomb a Black church and kill Rodney King along with Jewish community leaders, Metzger told The Times that Southern California, with its deeply diverse population, was a target-rich environment for their beliefs. This may not be the mecca of white separatism, but it is the breeding ground. Read more: 68 indicted in bust of Peckerwoods white supremacist gang in San Fernando Valley The skinhead wardrobe and Nazi tattoos were counterproductive, Metzger came to believe, and it was high time they went undercover and dressed normally to blend in. A lot of them, he said, have integrated themselves into the business community and the military, so you dont know theyre skinheads any more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the years, Metzger waded into Democratic electoral politics not too deeply nor successfully then turned in frustration to assembling his own group with its own angry acronym, WAR, White Aryan Resistance. He and WAR eventually went broke paying off a civil judgment of $12.5 million ordered by an Oregon court. Skinheads associated with WAR had killed an Ethiopian student there and Metzger and WAR were on the hook for his wrongful death. (A tasty dollop of karma here: Metzger got one judge booted from the trial because he thought his surname sounded Jewish. His replacement, whose last name, Haggerty, was Irish, turned out to be Black.) For most of the 20th century, you didnt always have to go looking for these people. In La Crescentas onetime Hindenburg Park, Americans showed up for rallies staged by the Bund, an American-varnished iteration of the Nazi party. The park is now the Crescenta Valley Community Regional Park, and a historical marker describes the parks Aryan superiority past along with its earlier innocuous German cultural and social connections. In the 1930s, neighbors in the Westsides Rustic Canyon reported seeing men wearing the Silver Shirt uniform of the fascist Nazi-style group on patrol in the canyon. The tactics, then as now, were about attention, and provocation. Protesters show up at the rallies, and if someone can get baited into a shove or a punch, the neo-Nazis wave that as proof that they are the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: From the Archives: A protest at Nazi headquarters in El Monte In El Monte, hateful history went far deeper. Years before the Civil War, a disorderly, sometimes bloodthirsty, vigilante local militia known as the Monte boys made the town a kind of sanctuary for hair-trigger Confederate sympathies and racist sentiments. El Monte was still trying to shake off this reputation a hundred and more years later; right there on Peck Road, the American Nazi Party opened for business in 1966. Its bloodiest episode wasnt an attack on its enemies; it was a Nazi-on-Nazi killing. Typically of these groups, the neo-Nazis quarreled over something dogma, money, tactics and shed some members. El Monte neo-Nazi Joseph Tommasi once ran the whole shebang, but hed been given the boot by the national HQ, and went off to start his own outfit. In August 1975, in some confrontation outside his old HQ, Tommasi was shot to death. The neo-Nazis who were there said he was charging up the steps with a club and that it was self-defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tommasi wouldnt rate much notice except for this convoluted plot: He had insisted that in 1972, he was handed $1,200 from a secret Nixon reelection fund to bankroll a weird assignment. Under arcane California rules, if a partys statewide voter registration numbers dropped below a certain threshold, that partys candidates couldnt be on a ballot. By 1972, then-President Nixons people were worried about the prospect of segregationist former Alabama governor George Wallace drawing votes from Nixon as the potential nominee of the AIP, the right-wing American Independent Party. Tommasi said he was paid by operatives for the Nixon campaign to get his fellow Aryaners to change their party registration from AIP, which curiously assumed they were registered to vote in the first place. Read more: Review: A real-life incident of white-power terrorism is told with chilling clarity in 'The Order' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tommasis story is not completely far-fetched: there was reportedly money set aside for such an effort. But Wallace didnt become the nominee and Tommasi evidently spent the money on trying and failing to secure the Peck Road property. A couple of outliers of note here: The John Birch Society was the post-WWII fringe group so committed to rooting out its perceived Communist menace here at home that it saw Commies and their conspiracies even where there were none. Its Western headquarters was for about 40 years in the rich, discreet city of San Marino. Its founder believed President Eisenhower was an agent of the Communist conspiracy, and although its mission was political, its critics were persuaded that many Birchers the Venn diagram again also happened to be antisemitic and racist. The JBS steadfastly and publicly kept itself as far as it could from the vulgar, violent likes of neo-Nazi groups that, for their part, would have been glad to piggyback on the JBSs country-club gravitas and its piggybanks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Times fourth publisher, Otis Chandler, had two relatives who were prominent Birchers. Not long after he became publisher, Chandler fired a shot across the JBS bow, assigning a five-part series on the extremist society and its Blue Book bible of principles. Chandler capped it with a signed front-page editorial in March 1961.He warned that Birchers work undermines democratic institutions exactly as the Communists try to do. They will sow distrust, and aggravate disputes, and they will weaken the very strong case for conservatism What are we to think when our last three Presidents, Roosevelt, Truman and Eisenhower, are accused either of being Communists or Communist dupes? . . . What are we to think when we are told that our churches almost without exception are corroded with active agents of Moscow?" Subversion, Chandler argued, whether of the left or right, is still subversion." The JBS is neither the force nor the figure on the political landscape that it was, but it did its work: The present-day radical right has picked up some of its notions and run with them, like hand-wringing over moral decline, big government, public education and conspiracy theories galore. Mrs. Rose O'Brine works in the bookstore at the John Birch Society in Belmont, Mass., on April 14, 1976. (J. Walter Green / Associated Press) Left-wing radical groups in California are a blip by comparison. They pretty much flourished and then faded in the 1970s. One, the New World Liberation Front, carried out about a score of terrorist bombings of Bay Area targets like PG&E towers, and in candy boxes delivered to politicians like future Sen. Dianne Feinstein, whose daughter found the device before it could go off. NWLF was a revolutionary grab-bag of not even a full platoons worth of off-and-on members, nominally led by Ronald Huffman and his girlfriend, Maureen Minton. A few days after Minton was savagely murdered by someone with an axe, Huffman was arrested carrying a sack of cash and part of Mintons brain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most intensely enduring impact of California 70s left-wing radicalism grew out of protests over prison abuse. Now we think of right-wing white extremists or Mexican Mafiosi as prison gangs, but in the 1970s, influential prison justice movements on the outside arose out of deadly confrontations behind the walls. George Jackson was one of the Soledad Brothers, a Black inmate radicalized by his readings of Marx, Mao and Lenin, and by what he and soon thousands of supporters worldwide would call out as brutal racial and political persecution of inmates by an unjust system. The back-and-forth killings of inmates and guards culminated in Jackson being shot down during a bloody escape try. Jacksons death, and his writings, and the forming of the Black Guerrilla Family prison Black power gang, brought the justice systems racial disparities into general public discussion. One of its stranger spinoffs was the grandiose, tactically clumsy Symbionese Liberation Army an army of perhaps a dozen white men and women led by a black escaped convict. In 1973, the SLA assassinated a Black Oakland school chief and in 1974 kidnapped newspaper heiress Patricia Hearst. It said it had it had persuaded her to join the cause and demanded that her millionaire father stage a massive food distribution program for the poor. Most SLA members died in an extraordinary, live-televised, hours-long shootout with the LAPD in May 1974. I have not overlooked the unrelenting antisemitism that Southern California still shows; I wrote about it early last year. It is and has been found high and low, boardrooms to barrooms, in threats and attacks on synagogues, community centers, people too, from Encino to Irvine to Poway. In 2023, Los Angeles County announced, it recorded far more examples than in any year since the countys commission on human relations began tracking these hate crimes more than 40 years ago. Anti-Jewish offenses spiked startlingly by 91%, the biggest number of such crimes recorded by the county. And now a new year and a new tally begins. It may be awkward for law enforcement to suggest a connection, but the nine-year rise and resurgence of Donald Trump does seem to have encouraged ugly urges in some people. Hate crimes have risen markedly since 2015, the year Trump launched his presidential campaign to succeed Barack Obama. Insults follow crimes; anonymous texts sent to Black people after the election ordered them to report to the nearest plantation to pick cotton. And Metzgers characterization of California, a state strung tensely between deeply conflicting visions of what it should look like, comes back around like a recurring virus: This may not be the mecca of white separatism, but it is the breeding ground. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) An important piece of federal agriculture legislation is being extended another year. The Farm Bill was first established in 1933. According to the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, the bill has a major impact on the livelihoods of farmers and the foods Americans eat. Since first introduced, the bill has been updated every five years, the last update being in 2018. It was initially to be renewed in 2023, but Congress has extended its expiration date twice now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a report from the Congressional Research Service, the bill is now set to expire on Sept. 30, 2025, for programs with fiscal year authorizations. The 2025 bill is expected to cover sustainable farming practices, crop insurance reference pricing, funding for agriculture research and new technology, as well as legislation on policies and funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program [SNAP]. U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen stressed the importance of protecting SNAP benefits and other nutritional programs while speaking at a press conference last week at the Gen. Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport. The Moline Democrat spoke about how food insecurity impacts Central Illinois residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an instance where now were going to have people that are going to be hungry or have kids that are going to be hungry, whole families, he said. And so weve got to make sure that we do whats right for the people that we serve. Sorensen said the 2018 Farm Bill is outdated, which puts farmers at a disadvantage technology-wise. He said the bills focus on agriculture research will help raise the U.S. on the worlds stage. Understand we are at a disadvantage because of what is happening around the world; how Brazil is opening up their markets, he said. And so now the American farmer is having to compete with those around the world. And we have to make sure that we are on the best footing. The bill will also address reference pricing for crop insurance. Sorensen explained crop insurance often charges local farmers based on weather patterns around the country, rather than what is happening locally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said, I want to see the reference prices change so that it is easier for our farmers to make a living and then pass their family farm down to the next generation. Sorensen underlined how important he thinks bipartisanship will be in getting this bill passed next year. As we go forward, its my hope that there is going to be able to be those things where we can sit at the table and say, these things, work these things, dont we negotiate? he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. Protesters in New York gathered Monday at separate demonstrations in Manhattan and Albany, holding up signs reading Black Lives Matter and Justice for Robert Brooks days after a disturbing video of the Black inmates fatal beating at the hands of correctional officers was released. Robert Brooks, a 43-year-old man serving a 12-year sentence for assault, died in the early hours of December 10 after he was beaten by at least three officers at Marcy Correctional Facility, an all-male state prison in north Albany. His death has enraged people across the country, along with inmates relatives and activists, one of whom called the incident a symptom of a decades-long incarceration system designed to dehumanize the people it takes and puts behind the wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt just about Robert Brooks, Jamaica Miles, the co-founder of All Of Us, an anti-racist organization based in Schenectady, told CNN affiliate WRGB. There are family members standing with us right now whose loved ones are in that same prison. The FBI and US Department of Justice are reviewing the case, and the New York Attorney Generals Office of Special Investigations has launched an investigation into Brooks death. Authorities have not released a cause of death for Brooks. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has said she was outraged and horrified by Brooks senseless killing and announced she would appoint a new superintendent at Marcy Correctional Facility and expedite $400 million to install fixed cameras and distribute body-worn cameras at all Department of Corrections and Community Service (DOCCS) facilities. Hochul directed corrections agency Commissioner Daniel Martuscello to appoint Bennie Thorpe as the new permanent superintendent of Marcy Correctional Facility, her office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thorpe, now superintendent at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in the Hudson Valley, has over 20 years of experience in corrections and is a career DOCCS employee who has never served at Marcy or nearby facilities, giving him expertise and a fresh perspective on what must be done, the Democrats office said. Heres what we know: Robert Brooks is carried by correctional officers at the Marcy Correctional Facility. - NYS Attorney General What the video shows Brooks was transferred from Mohawk Correctional Facility to Marcy Correctional Facility on the morning of December 9, according to New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, who released footage of the beating Friday. The eight videos, dated from the evening of December 9 and reviewed by CNN, were taken from body-worn cameras on four different officers. They begin with Brooks face down with his hands cuffed behind his back being carried into a medical examination room by three officers. It is unclear what led up to this moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One officer appears to shove a white material in Brooks mouth as another officer holds Brooks by the throat. The officer then repeatedly punches Brooks in the face, while another officer punches him in the groin. One officer is seen striking Brooks with a shoe. Two officers then pull Brooks to a seated upright position at the edge of an exam table one officer holding Brooks by his neck before laying him flat on his back. Another officer then puts his foot on Brooks lower torso, while another officer hits him again in the chest. The officer who struck Brooks with his leg is then seen restraining Brooks legs before punching him in the buttocks approximately three times. He and another officer appear to yank Brooks up to the edge of the exam table once again, his face visibly bloody. Brooks appears to speak before an officer punches him in the chest again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two officers then grab Brooks by the collar of his shirt and shoulder area, picking him off the table before forcing him to the back right corner of the room and holding him up against a wall as other officers look on. Minutes later, one of the officers gives Brooks a sternum rub a technique used to assess if a person is conscious as another officer pulls off what appears to be Brooks green inmate uniform. The footage ends with Brooks no longer handcuffed, lying on the table, motionless in his underwear. Who are the officers involved? The Department of Corrections named 14 staff connected to Brooks death. As of December 31, none of the officers have been charged with wrongdoing. CNN has not been able to confirm the specific identities of the officers shown in the video, or what role each named person is alleged to have had. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The correctional officers union, which typically speaks on behalf of prison employees, issued a statement that described the footage as incomprehensible to say the least and certainly not reflective of the great work that the vast majority of our membership conducts every day. CNN has reached out to the named officers for comment. None of the officers or their representatives have commented since the video came to light. At least three of the officers involved in Brooks beating were previously accused of assault, a review of court documents obtained by CNN shows. Sgt. Glenn Trombly and Officer Anthony Farina were named in a complaint filed in federal court in 2022, based on a 2020 incident at Marcy prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint alleges as another correctional officer beat a handcuffed inmate at the correctional facility, Trombly and Farina looked on and failed to intervene in any manner to prevent or stop the beating, leaving the plaintiff with a permanent facial deformity. The case is pending. The plaintiffs attorney told CNN it is office policy not to comment on pending cases. Farina resigned from his role at the Marcy Correctional Facility after Brooks death, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision told CNN Monday. A different officer, Nicholas Anzalone, who was named by the department, is also named in a separate federal complaint in 2022, stating he joined an assault on an inmate by another correctional officer at the same facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint alleges the officer was involved in a cover-up fabricating disciplinary charges against the inmate, who was left with substantial physical and mental injuries. The case is ongoing. The inmate was brutally assaulted in 2020 at Marcy CF, the same prison where Robert Brooks was just murdered (involving) one of the same corrections officers, the inmates attorney, Katie Rosenfeld, told CNN. Her client thought he would die that day, as officers punched and kicked him to a bloody heap. The officers then lied to cover up the beating, Rosenfelds statement says. If DOCCS (the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision) had done anything about the officers at Marcy who it knew were routinely terrorizing incarcerated people, Mr. Brooks would still be alive today, Rosenfeld added. 2022 watchdog report calls out physical assaults, racial discrimination at facility A 2022 report about Marcy from the Correctional Association of New York, which provides independent oversight of prisons in the state, notes multiple problems at the facility, including allegations of physical assaults by staff on inmates and pervasive allegations of racial discrimination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 80% of inmates surveyed in the report said they had seen or been subjected to verbal, physical, or sexual abuse by staff. Inmates reported experiencing seemingly random assaults from the staff as well as targeted attacks meted out as punishment, the report found. In a statement at the time, the organizations executive director, Jennifer Scaife, said, A number of issues at Marcy troubled us during our monitoring visit, including pervasive allegations of racial discrimination, mistreatment by staff, and non-adherence to the requirements of HALT (the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act). The report recommended the Office of Special Investigations and Inspector General investigate the widespread claims of abuse at Marcy. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision told CNN in a statement that they have addressed or are in the process of addressing the majority of the recommendations contained in the 2022 CANY report on Marcy Correctional Facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Office of Inspector General investigated and took action following the release of the CANY report, a spokesperson for the office told CNN. Citing confidentiality in revealing any active investigations, the office said it responded to CANYs briefing in its recent public reports into the misapplication of drug testing, the unconscionable persistence of racial disparities in disciplinary infractions, and the implementation of the HALT legislation intended to limit the use of solitary confinement. The inspector generals office visited New Yorks 42 prisons, training sessions for corrections staff and held quarterly meetings with CANY. Every specific allegation from incarcerated New Yorkers, correctional staff, and CANY alike is thoroughly and timely reviewed by OIG leadership, said a spokesperson for the office. How experts are responding It seemed possible Brooks sustained a fatal spinal cord injury when officers lifted him from the table by his shirt, Dr. Jeremy Faust, an emergency physician at Brigham and Womens Hospital and an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, told CNN. My jaw hit the floor when I saw it, Faust said, because it looked like just enough force in the right direction to do real damage. Although Brooks was previously alert, he does not seem to move or react to stimuli after officers pick him up. The way officers lifted Brooks hyperextended his neck, Faust explained. This could have caused a devastating spinal cord injury, the result of which would be immediate or almost immediate paralysis of the body, including the respiratory muscles, he said. Brooks appeared to be compliant and was not posing a threat when officers were using force against him, which is considered excessive by standard police protocol, one law enforcement expert told CNN. Just because someone is handcuffed does not mean they cannot be subjected to force. However and this is a big however if someone is no longer a direct threat to the officers and is complying with instructions, it would certainly be excessive to strike them, choke them, et cetera, said Bryce Peterson, adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a senior research scientist at the Center for Justice Research and Innovation. Peterson said potential excessive use of force is evident in the video when officers are cleaning blood off Mr. Brooks face and then begin to strike him and continue to strike and grab him for the next 30 seconds, Peterson said. A US Supreme Court ruling in 1992 sets the standard for police use of force, said Peterson, who was part of a team that later did the first evaluation of a correctional body-camera program at a jail in Loudoun County, Virginia. The ruling established force is only justified when it is used to maintain or establish discipline, he said. Peterson said its notable from the footage of the Brooks incident that he was already injured when he first appears in the video, and the investigation will need to determine whether his injuries were from a prior use of force by correctional officers, or an inmate-on-inmate altercation, Peterson said. CNNs Chris Boyette, Caroll Alvarado, Polo Sandoval and Tanika Gray contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com HENDERSON, Nev. (WAVY) As Andrew Scoggins mourns the loss of his son and ex-wife, he said police in this Las Vegas suburb failed to test the man charged in their murders for drugs or alcohol. Police say that wouldnt be typical in a case such as this. OBX native and mother shot to death near Vegas, stepfather charged Evan Scoggins, 20, and his mother Anastasia Akutsina, 44, were shot to death in October in the home they shared with her husband Karl Groschen, 41. Groschen was indicted in November on two counts of murder, and Nevada authorities are seeking the death penalty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Groschen was captured on Henderson Police bodycam video admitting to the shootings. Theres two dead bodies, Groschen tells a responding officer, referring to his home and garage. Youve just got to arrest me. Who are they? the officer asked. My wife and my stepson, Groschen told the officer. Groschen was carrying a canned beverage and two prescription bottles. He claimed self-defense. Youve got to take me, Groschen told police. I thought they were trying to kill me. Andrew Scoggins said Henderson police should have done a drug and alcohol test on Groschen when they arrested him. That way, [Groschen] cant use the excuse that [he was] under the influence. That way [he] cant use the excuse that there was some mental impairment, Scoggins said in a Monday interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Henderson Police responded to 10 On Your Side, stating in an email that toxicology tests are not protocol in murder investigations, such a test would require probable cause, and that would require evidence thats recoverable. The department went on to say that impairment is not an element of the crime of murder, unlike, for example, a DUI case. Groschens attorneys have asked for a competency review. Scoggins, meanwhile, brought Evan Scroggins remains back to the Outer Banks where he was born and attended elementary school. His memorial service was held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nags Head, with several of his friends in attendance. They gave some powerful eulogies, Scoggins said. I think theyre still handling it as best as they can, just like me. That was the church where Evan was baptized. Scoggins said the death penalty would be appropriate justice for Evan and Anastasia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two beautiful lives were taken, he said. In Nevada and in any state, I think its important that people face the music, face what theyve done. Everything has consequences. And in this case, the consequence should be the death penalty. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. (Getty Images) The Capital-Star team did a lot of good work this year. We each picked our favorite stories, from among the ones we wrote and the ones our colleagues wrote as well. Kim Lyons I picked a few pieces that I thought best represented the reporters styles as well as their larger body of work. I frequently referred to John Cole as tireless throughout 2024, because he was always finding new angles to report on news. His knowledge of Philadelphia politics is impressive, and when he pitched a story idea, even when I was skeptical, he was usually on to something (See: Trump at SneakerCon) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, President Joe Biden announced the commutations of 1,500 sentences that included one of the judges in the Kids for Cash scandal that affected families in northeastern Pennsylvania. John noticed that Gov. Josh Shapiro would be speaking at an unrelated event the next day in Scranton, Bidens childhood hometown and part of the region affected by the Kids for Cash scheme. Shapiro often takes questions from reporters when he does community events, and sure enough, he was asked about Bidens decision, calling it absolutely wrong. I was so impressed with the tenacious, thorough work Ian Karbal did on the story about the Post-Gazette strike, but others highlighted that excellent piece (see below), so I wanted to direct readers to another of his best articles of the year. He looked at the impact that pharmacy benefit managers have had on pharmacies in Pennsylvania many blame the middlemen for driving indie and chain drugstores out of business and the legislative efforts to rein in some of their more problematic practices. Peter Hall wrote approximately one billion stories this year about Pennsylvanias mail-in ballots and the myriad lawsuits challenging them or at least it felt that way to us. He also worked with our news partners at PublicSource on one of our finest stories of the year, about the fate of people incarcerated for second-degree murder without parole many of whom had never killed anyone (see more on that below). But what Pete does best is take complex legal and legislative topics and guide the reader along with context and insight, and thats what he did in this story about Allentowns Neighborhood Improvement Zone, which was the motivation behind a showdown with Revenue Secretary Pat Browne and the state senator who replaced him in the Lehigh Valley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I covered a lot of the Senate and presidential campaigns across Pennsylvania this year, and attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August. Thats where I met Angie Gialloreto, the oldest delegate at the convention, a committeewoman from Wilkins Township. Shes attended every convention since 1976, and was rooting hard for Vice President Kamala Harris. I believe in freedom. I believe in America, she told me, in my favorite story of 2024. Peter Hall John Cole had the idea for this story after covering a meeting where a local official questioned the impact of proposed rail service from Scranton and the Poconos to New York. The concern about crime wasnt widely shared. But with rail booster Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) facing a challenge by now Sen-elect Dave McCormick, who said hed vote to repeal the bipartisan infrastructure law funding the project, the longstanding goal of returning passenger rail service to northeast Pennsylvania became an election issue. Ian Karbal spotted something odd buried in the 100-page bill that gives state agencies instructions on how to spend the money the legislature and governors office allocates in the state budget. Ians dive down the rabbit hole revealed 11 school districts that got additional money on top of the historic fair funding formula money distributed in the 2024-2025 budget. His reporting examined the reasons for the extra money and whether it was a fair solution to what Democrats said was a compromise that short-changed students. The East Palestine, Ohio, rail disaster in February 2023 devastated rural communities along the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. A year after the toxic smoke cloud disappeared and trains began running between Chicago and Pittsburgh on Norfolk-Southerns freight line, residents and lawmakers were still working on the recovery and making sure safety on the nations railways doesnt take a backseat to profit. Kim Lyons looked back at the challenges they faced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pennsylvanias richest man spends tens of millions of his own money in a typical election cycle and the 2024 election was no exception. For this story, I used Federal Communications Commission records and advertising industry data to look at how Yass PAC was spending money to influence the race for Pennsylvania attorney general and to attempt to flip the state House back to Republican control. While Republican Dave Sunday won the attorney general race, the effort to target rural Democrats in the House didnt pay off. Ian Karbal What gives a piece of journalism staying power isnt all that different from any other kind of story: characters that pull us in and ground us. Its hard to imagine anyone reading about Marie Mechie Scott, or some of the other people who populate this story, and not being moved by them. But the details that make Scott stand out on a page can only be found through tenacious reporting. That extra effort is why Im still thinking about this Pete Hall story months after it was published, and the questions about justice, punishment and culpability that it raises. Im a sucker for a story that grows more and more complex the longer you spend unfolding it. To be frank, I expected a pretty cut and dry labor story when I first pitched an article marking the two-year anniversary of the strike at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. But the more interviews I did and deadlines I blew past, the more my assumptions were challenged, and the more I realized I was wading into what resembled a complex family drama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres also my arguably self-involved interest in reporting on the press itself. I believe media reporting is best approached as a matter of covering a public service. A newspaper like the Post-Gazettelove it or hate itis essential to maintaining an informed citizenry in Pittsburgh. And it deserves the same level of scrutiny and accountability as any other civic institution. On its face, this is a really simple story: a political candidate made a promise and a reporter sought to record it in print. But what John Cole did here that I love so much is interrogate the subtext of what was really being communicated and dive into the history of similar promises made and, for the most part, never kept. Subtext and innuendo can be really uncomfortable territories for a political reporter, but they are an essential part of any campaign. People are often more clued in to whats between the lines of a candidates message than whatever is on their policy page. And John does a really good job here of illuminating that in a way thats fair, provides important context and relevant history to boot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes whats on the edge of a major news cycle is just as important as whats at the center. In August, when all eyes seemed to turn to the Joint Andrews Air Base in Maryland, where a group of prisoners whod been held in Russia reached America, Kim Lyons looked closer to home. There, Anne Fogel, a Pennsylvania resident whose brother was still being held in a Russian prison, was left to wonder why her family hadnt been so lucky. While the moment was a cause for celebration, this story served as a sober reminder of the people left behind, and as a portrait of a moment of complex grief for the people waiting for them. John Cole The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is not only an institution in western Pennsylvania, but has been widely respected across the commonwealth and the country for centuries. The hard-working reporters at the Post-Gazette have been on strike for two years and questions remain about the strikes future. Ian Karbal did an excellent deep-dive, documenting the events that have taken place over the past few years and letting readers know what the status is today for those hard-working reporters on strike. Pennsylvanians were inundated with political advertisements of all kinds in 2024. The race for the Keystone States 19 electoral votes may have garnered the most headlines, but down ballot races were also key in Pennsylvania. Peter Hall did an outstanding job detailing how Jeff Yass, Pennsylvanias wealthiest resident and conservative mega donor, was spending his money in the state in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pennsylvania workers were very much at the center of the 2024 election in Pennsylvania. With pundits from across the globe wondering how they were thinking leading into Novembers election, a group of workers at a glass plant in western Pennsylvania slated to be closed were hoping their pleas would not be ignored. The status of this glass plant in Charleroi emerged as a topic in Pennsylvanias U.S. Senate race and Kim Lyons went on the ground and talked to workers about the status of their jobs and what they thought elected officials could do to help them. Of the dozens of rallies I covered during the 2024 election, I can safely say that the one that stood out the most was SneakerCon. It was a Friday afternoon in February and news broke that former President Donald Trump would be making an appearance in Philadelphia at a sneaker convention. I decided to buy a ticket to the event to cover it, and ended up with a front-row seat, as Trump unveiled his new gold sneakers to a mix of cheers and booing. Im not sure what impact, if any, his appearance at Sneaker Con had on the 2024 result, but can say this event gave a bit of a sneak peek into how Trump was going to run his 2024 campaign in Pennsylvania and beyond, reaching out to voters through non-traditional methods of campaigning. Thanks for supporting our work in 2024! Dec. 30The beating death of Robert L. Brooks is garnering more and more outrage and calls for reform, as law enforcement agencies including the FBI look into the death and reportedly consider charges for the corrections officers, sergeants and nurse involved. As detailed in graphic bodycam video released to the public on Friday, Brooks was beaten by a group of corrections officers just moments after he arrived at Marcy Correctional Facility, a state prison in Oneida County. In a medical exam room at the minimum-security prison, video shows five officers appear to beat Brooks with fists, his shoes, their own legs and feet, grappling him by the neck and repeatedly seeming to knock him unconscious. Brooks was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died early in the morning of Dec. 10. A medical examiners report found that he died as a result of constriction of his neck, asphyxiating him. While no charges have been filed against anyone in the case yet, the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision released a list naming 14 CO's, sergeants and one nurse who were shown by the video to either beat Brooks or look on without intervening as it happened. One of those involved has resigned, and state police have begun filing emergency risk protection orders to revoke access to firearms for at least two of the five officers who are alleged to have beaten Brooks themselves one of whom is David Kingsley, who lives in Adams, Jefferson County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 13 officers who have not resigned were suspended without pay last week. And on Sunday, a spokesperson for the FBI's Albany field office said federal law enforcement is looking into the death. "The FBI Albany field office and the Department of Justice are reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of Robert L. Brooks to determine the appropriate federal response," the spokesperson said. "As this is an ongoing review, we are not able to comment further at this time." The FBI generally does not confirm or deny the existence of a federal investigation when asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reactions were swift from state leaders and Brooks' own family when the video of the beating was released by the state Attorney General on Friday legislative leaders, Gov. Kathleen C. Hochul, the DOCCS Commissioner who runs the state prisons, and the lawyer representing the Brooks family all described the video as disturbing, distressing and the death of Brooks as wrong. Hochul made a closed-press visit to the prison on Monday. Over the weekend and into Monday, outrage seemed to bubble some lawmakers in Albany called for the closure of Marcy and Mohawk Correctional facilities. Mohawk is a medium-security prison nearby to Marcy, where Brooks had been serving his sentence before being transferred on Dec. 9. Assemblyman Eddie Gibbs, D-East Harlem, who is the first legislator in New York to have served a prison sentence before being elected, called for the closure of both Marcy and Mohawk Correctional facilities in a statement. "As the first and only formerly incarcerated person elected in New York, I'd be shocked if this type of abuse wasn't something incarcerated people were taught to expect," he said. "These actions are not unusual, these officers just caused enough damage to another person to get noticed. It's absolutely disgusting that our COs could treat another person with such a callous disregard for human life." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Julia Salazar, D-Brooklyn, who chairs the Senate Corrections Committee that oversees prisons, said in a statement that Marcy must close, and there needs to be radical reform at DOCCS. "The fact that this violence at the hands of state employees is happening in any New York state prison is a profound policy failure that demands immediate action," she said. She said all involved must be fired and criminally charged, and lawmakers should take up legislation aimed at preventing CO-on-inmate violence. "Marcy Correctional Facility cannot remain open," she said. "The brutal killing of Robert Brooks would be more than enough reason to demand the closure of Marcy. However, there have been additional, previous reports of unconscionable violence against incarcerated individuals by staff at Marcy and at other DOCCS facilities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor and the commissioner of DOCCS have the power to close up to three more state prisons before April, under the terms of the state budget signed in April 2024 the governor was given the power to close up to five prisons with 90 days notice, and announced the closure of two facilities this summer. It's not clear if the Governor intends to use that power to close any more facilities before April. During her visit to Marcy on Monday, Hochul announced a leadership change for the prison, and a raft of other measures aimed at making the prison safer for its incarcerated residents. "Today, as I stood in the room where Robert Brooks was killed, I was once again heartbroken by this unnecessary loss of life and further sickened to think of the actions of depraved individuals with no regard for human life," she said. Hochul directed the DOCCS commissioner to replace the current acting superintendent of Marcy, Danielle Medbury, with a permanent appointee Bennie Thorpe. Thorpe has worked in DOCCS for more than 20 years and is the current superintendent of Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Ulster County, but has never worked at Marcy or another nearby prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochul also announced that $400 million already set aside for body and security camera deployment throughout the DOCCS system will be expedited. Additionally, DOCCS staff will be added to the Office of Special Investigations at the state Attorney General's office, a move meant to make it easier for that office to investigate incidents in the prison system faster. Hochul has directed that DOCCS engage an outside consultant to review the culture of every state prison, ordered the expansion of the DOCCS whistleblower hotline system, and launched a program with a public health nonprofit aimed at assessing prison culture across New York. The state is also expanding an existing partnership with the independent monitor for the state prison system, the Correctional Association of New York, to get more independent eyes in state prisons. Those moves were lauded by CANY in a statement late Monday. "Governor Kathy Hochul has taken swift action in response to this tragedy and her commitment to holding the individuals responsible for Mr. Brooks' death accountable is a crucial first step. Furthermore, her willingness to bring comprehensive reform to the state's prisons, including landmark investments in transparency and oversight, signals a true commitment to systematic change," the organization said in a statement. Every phone number within Frederick County Public Schools, including individual schools and central office phone numbers, will permanently change by Jan. 1, 2025. Some of the new numbers are with a 227 area code that started in Maryland in June as an overlay to the existing 301 and 240 area codes. Dan Lippy, executive director of systemwide operations for FCPS, said last week that the school district changed phone carriers on July 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the old phone numbers play a message that tells the caller that the number would be changing, then puts the caller through to the new number. Lippy said the message will play on the old numbers until the end of the school year. Lippy said the school district switched phone carriers on July 1 because it needed a digital upgrade from its old system. He added that the phone carrier Verizon was out of numbers in the bloc that FCPS had been using for its phone numbers. "So, since we had to change the system, we went ahead and changed every number in the system to get a new bloc of numbers, so that we will not run out of numbers," Lippy said. He said FCPS sent out information to the community about the changes in May and July of this year. New Deal Law and Order: How the War on Crime Built the Modern Liberal State, by Anthony Gregory, Harvard University Press, 512 pages, $45 The United States is notorious both for mass incarceration and for militarized police forces. The U.S. Border Patrol lends unmanned drones to police around the country, who use them to surveil ordinary citizens. Intergovernmental task forces and fusion centers coordinate cooperation among law enforcement officers at all levels of government. Years after COINTELPRO, the FBI is still spying on dissenters. The United States professes a commitment to liberal values, individual rights, and equal protection, but it combines this rhetoric with a muscular security state. How did we get here? Many focus on the ways Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton escalated federal police power. But in his new book, New Deal Law and Order: How the War on Crime Built the Modern Liberal State, historian Anthony Gregory emphasizes how an earlier president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, built up policing, incarceration, and the modern security state. Liberalism, Gregory shows, can be used to build an apparatus of repression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To set the stage, Gregory explores a series of struggles over both real and perceived "lawlessness" in the period from the Civil War through the beginning of the Great Depression. This included the lawlessness of white Southerners who engaged in racial terror and lynching. It also included labor unrest, where both the actions of strikers and the actions of strikebreaking private security forces were frequently framed as lawless. It included bank robberies and gang violence. It included the Prohibition-fueled growth of organized crime. It included kidnappings and human trafficking across state lines. In America's federalist system, designating all these problems as "lawlessness" rather than merely "crime" served an important function. Ordinary crimes were understood as problems for local and state authorities. The notion of "lawlessness" was used to argue these were national problems that called for federal intervention. Yet attempts to create a nationwide basis for enforcing law and order all failed until Roosevelt built a durable nationwide apparatus of crime controlan apparatus quickly used for repression as well. To do this, officials such as Attorney General Homer Cummings worked with state and local governments, offering incentives to expand policing and incarceration in line with the administration's goals. Gregory calls this mutually beneficial arrangement among state, local, and federal officials to expand their power "war-on-crime federalism." Roosevelt and his allies engaged in a trickier sort of coalition building among diametrically opposed ideological factions. White supremacist Southern Democrats got federal support for their local police, while civil rights activists hoped federal officials would use their new powers to stop lynchings. The administration largely refused to do the latter, but officials walked a fine line that allowed them to keep the anti-racists in their coalition: Some Democrats sponsored unsuccessful anti-lynching legislation, Roosevelt occasionally spoke against lynching, and he met with anti-lynching activists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another way Roosevelt maintained a broad coalition was to retain top officials from previous administrations and help them expand their power. Harry Anslinger, who became head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics under Roosevelt's Republican predecessor, remained in that position; he used Roosevelt's war on crime to build the modern war on drugs. Similarly, J. Edgar Hoover had led the Bureau of Investigation under multiple GOP presidents. While some close to Roosevelt wanted to remove him, the attorney general kept him on, and Hoover ended up playing an instrumental role in the new war on crime. In the process, Hoover expanded his agency's power, eventually transforming it into the Federal Bureau of Investigation. His agents took on many roles during Roosevelt's administration, including surveilling the president's political opponents. The war on crime also helped Roosevelt redefine liberalism in a manner that allowed a more expansive role for coercive, repressive state action. Although some libertarians and other classical liberals might want to deny Roosevelt the title of liberal, this book makes a persuasive case that liberal ideals and rhetoric played a crucial role in legitimizing the president's war on crime and holding together the coalition that supported it, just as it did for his broader package of New Deal reforms. Even some who initially criticized the Roosevelt administration's consolidation of power, such as Roger Baldwin of the American Civil Liberties Union, eventually praised his administration. When Roosevelt was using the security state to repress those who stood in the way of U.S. mobilization for World War II, Baldwin said "prophets who foretold the collapse of democratic libertieshave been confounded by the extraordinary record of war-time freedom." While Baldwin recognized Japanese internment as a gross and unnecessary violation of civil liberties, he called it a "blot" on Roosevelt's "record of general sanity and tolerance." Baldwin held off on releasing a report about Hoover's use of the FBI to repress dissent because he considered Hoover a lesser evil compared to the conservative Texas Democrat Martin Dies Jr., who led the House Un-American Activities Committee. Baldwin took to describing civil liberties abuses by the new security state as exceptions that marred the agencies' otherwise admirable record of respecting the rule of law. This angle is one of the most valuable things about Gregory's book: It shows how appeals to liberal values and ideals can be used to empower brutal coercion and repression. While all states enact violence, they administer this violence through the cooperation of many people inside and outside the formal government. To secure this cooperation, they rely on ideas and rhetoric. Even the ideas and rhetoric that libertarians love can be turned into justifications for violent state-building exercises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Roosevelt's case, those state-building exercises included gun control; the drug war; increased cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement; expansion of incarceration; and growing links between domestic police and the national security state. The New Deal war on crime created a coercive apparatus that Roosevelt used throughout World War II to maintain wartime regimentation and discipline, including such shameful civil liberties abuses as Japanese internment. New Deal Law and Order alsoillustrates how seemingly disparate forms of state power are mutually reinforcing. Efforts to expand welfare or provide public services were deeply entangled with the New Deal war on crime. The Tennessee Valley Authority, for instance, did not simply expand public services, aid rural electrification, and help modernize the American South. It also required security officers to protect its facilities. More broadly, crime-fighting strategies often emphasized both repression and prevention, with prevention proposals tied to public services. The growth of the welfare state thus reinforced the growth of the security state. Meanwhile, as the security state grew for domestic law enforcement purposes, it self-consciously learned from past foreign conflictsand then built connections between policing and national security during World War II. Over time, these connections have militarized law enforcement at all levels of government. When a local police department carries out a SWAT raid, seizes property through civil asset forfeiture, or uses a drone to surveil a protest, it is often using tools it received from Washington. We're still living in a world of "war-on-crime federalism," and Gregory's work is indispensable for understanding how we got here. NATHAN P. GOODMAN is a senior fellow in the F.A. Hayek Program for Advanced Study in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at George Mason University's Mercatus Center. His research focuses on public choice, institutions, self-governance, defense and peace economics, and border militarization. The post How FDR Built the American Security State appeared first on Reason.com. SEOUL, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A South Korean court issued a warrant to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol and search the presidential residence, a joint investigation unit said Tuesday. The investigation unit, consisting of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), the National Office of Investigation (NOI) and the defense ministry's investigation headquarters, said in a short notice that the issuance of the arrest and search warrant against Yoon was confirmed earlier in the morning. The unit added that no schedule was set for how to execute the warrant. It marked the first time in the country's modern history that an arrest warrant was filed against a sitting president. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Two federal agencies have announced plans to update an environmental study on the Columbia and Snake River dams a move lauded by environmental advocates who say the new study could help local tribes and save the Columbia Basins salmon population. In a joint notice of intent on December 18 which was first reported by the Idaho Capital Sun the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation announced their plans to issue a supplemental environmental impact statement (EIS) on the dams after new reports detailed their dangers and ways to improve habitats surrounding the basin. Rescue teams gear stolen hours after finding men who died sasquatch hunting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The update comes as the initial study currently informs how 14 dams are managed in the basin by the federal government. The new information leading to the update includes data from a June 2024 report from the U.S. Department of the Interior that found ongoing harm to local tribes from Columbia Basin dams, along with a 2022 report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which detailed ways to restore a healthy salmon habitat. Earthjustice a nonprofit organization said revising the initial flawed study from 2020 could lead to changes in the Columbia Basin that can help prevent extinction and restore imperiled salmon and steelhead populations to healthy and harvestable abundance. The nonprofit has previously noted the Columbia and Snake River dams not only diminish salmon habitats and can kill them as they pass though the dams but also limit salmon harvesting opportunities for local tribes and conflict with their treaty rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Eye on Northwest Politics Its clearer than ever that we need a major course change, with new information showing many salmon populations in the basin hovering near extinction, said Earthjustice Senior Attorney Amanda Goodin. The information available now provides us with all we need to chart a successful path forward. We know we can avoid extinction and rebuild salmon and native fisheries to a healthy and harvestable abundance if we commit to the centerpiece actions they need, including breaching the four lower Snake River dams and replacing their services. We also know we have no time to lose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least four Columbia and Snake River salmon and steelhead stocks have already gone extinct and 13 others including all four remaining Snake River stocks are listed under the Endangered Species Act. We must have a strong study and plan based on the best available science that will ensure restoration of imperiled native fish populations to healthy and harvestable levels, added Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association Policy Director Liz Hamilton in an Earthjustice press release. Revising this study is the logical next step toward meaningful change that complies with the law and the needs of the fish. The current dam management plan was challenged in court by plaintiffs represented by Earthjustice, the State of Oregon, and the Nez Perce tribe. That lawsuit is under a legal pause as the parties work on an updated fisheries restoration plan, the nonprofit said. The announcement from the federal agencies also follows an agreement signed by the federal government, Washington, Oregon, four lower Columbia Basin tribes, along with fishing and conservation groups represented by Earthjustice. That agreement is based on the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative, which is a plan to restore the basins native fisheries with support from the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stranded sea turtle rescued near Oceanside, Oregon Now, the federal agencies are seeking public input until March 20, 2025, as they prepare the supplemental EIS. A spokesperson for the Bureau of Reclamation told KOIN 6 News on Monday, The goal of Reclamation and USACE is to balance the Columbia River Systems authorized purposes in accordance with all relevant laws and regulations. At this stage in the process, we need input from the public to determine the scope and significant issues to be analyzed in depth in the EIS. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation will also hold at least three virtual public meetings on their work the week of February 10, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the agencies prepare for the EIS, Bill Arthur with the environmental organization Sierra Clubs Snake/Columbia River Campaign, issued a statement with Earthjustice, noting breaching dams could be an option moving forward. We appreciate the decision to do a supplemental process to address these flaws and evaluate stronger measures in how we operate the hydropower system including breaching the lower Snake River dams, Arthur said. Extinction is not an option and that is the trajectory we are on without stronger actions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Bands of heavy lake-effect snow will develop in the wake of a storm straddling 2024 and 2025 from the Upper Midwest and interior Northeast. AccuWeather meteorologists say sneaky bursts of snow in the Northeast and another a stripe of accumulating snow in the Midwest and Ohio Valley will round out the week. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts with Premium+ The heaviest snowfall of the next few days is forecast to continue downwind of the Great Lakes. As is typical of lake-effect snow, the cold air passing over the relatively warm and open waters of the Great Lakes can create bands of snow. These band shift can bring intense bands of snow that move and shift around with changes in the wind direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These persistent lake effect bands set up earlier this week and have continued to pivot across the Great Lakes region, bringing several inches of snow from Michigan to West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York. Some places in western New York and northwest Pennsylvania have already reported half a foot as of Thursday night. As a batch of even colder air strengthens later this week, lake-effect snow bands will become heavy to intense from Friday to the weekend. "Some of the heaviest snow totals from the lake-effect event into Sunday will occur to the east and southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario," AccuWeather Storm Warning Meteorologist William Clark said, "From 12-24 inches of snow will pile up from parts of northeastern Ohio to northwestern Pennsylvania and western New York, as well as another pocket in northern New York from just east of Rochester to just south of Watertown, with Syracuse smack in the middle." Both of these areas have an AccuWeather Local StormMax snowfall of 48 inches downwind of the eastern Great Lakes. There will be pockets where 12 inches and locally higher amounts of snow can pile up in northern and western Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all of the snow will be confined to the Great Lakes region on Friday. Gusty winds may help push some of the lake-enhanced snow over the Appalachians, and streak into parts of southern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. One of the main concerns with this streak of snow shifting towards the East Coast on Friday afternoon is the timing. A quick wave of heavy snow could impact locations from Philadelphia to Baltimore, coinciding with sunset. Any heavier period of snow could temporarily reduce visibility, slowing the evening commute and perhaps causing a few slick spots. Travelers out and about into Friday evening should use caution, as untreated surfaces could quickly become slick in a burst of snow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AccuWeather meteorologists are also tracking another batch of snow Friday. A clipper-like storm will race from the Plains into the Ohio Valley where it can bring several inches of snow. As the storm moves along, a widespread 1 to 3 inches of snow will fall. Snow is likely to be persistent enough in the West Virginia mountains for upwards of 6 inches of snow in the highest terrain. This storm's snow will pass south of Chicago and Detroit but can bring slippery conditions to Des Moines, Iowa; Peoria, Illinois; Cincinnati; Charleston, West Virginia; and perhaps even Knoxville, Tennessee. The Appalachians will tend to screen out much of the snow, although some intermittent snow or flurries can fall on portions of Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and northern North Carolina from Friday to Friday night. Some rain may be mixed in near the coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Progressively colder conditions will follow the clipper storm with major outbreaks of Arctic air. Rounds of cold air are likely to infiltrate the eastern half of the country through most of January. Each wave of Arctic air may be accompanied by sizable and disruptive winter storms from the Midwest to the East through mid-month. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A relatively new Oregon law that lets felons petition for sentence reviews with the support of the district attorney was on display Monday in a Multnomah County courtroom, The convicted felons can ask for the review using three types of claims: innocence with proof, excessive sentences after more than five years and collateral consequences seeking relief from the lasting impact of the conviction. A deputy DA from outgoing Multnomah County DA Mike Schmidts office, defense attorneys and the non-profit Oregon Criminal Justice Truth Project all made their pitches in eight distinct cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One case from the 1990s involves a man convicted as a teen for brutal assaults who is now seeking a lesser sentence. Another case from the 1980s involves multiple burglaries, including one tied to a deadly home invasion with a push for resentencing. The Oregon Criminal Justice Truth Project asked for a delay, arguing the cases are too severe to rush. In a letter to the judge, the non-profit blasted the so-called last minute petitions and a failure to notify victims families within the required 30-day timeframe. Given the seriousness of this matter, I think its only important that we do it right, said the groups Jose Cienfuegos. Defense attorney Aliza Kaplan said the cases werent rushed and that the sentences were excessive and thoroughly reviewed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It feels like a spectacle when these are already agreed-upon hearings, Kaplan said, and here we are. Incoming Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez, December 30, 2024 (KOIN) Of the eight cases, at least half are either non-violent or lack direct victims. But the other four will go to incoming Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez, with a judge to review them sometime in January. I want to make sure that if my office is going to engage in this type of action, that were doing it in a thoughtful manner but also doing it in full compliance with the law, Vasquez told KOIN 6 News. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. For a party so united and ready to take total control in Washington, Republicans sure have a lot of divisions. In the House of Representatives, there are the Freedom Caucus hardliners versus the pragmatic, moderate conservatives. In the Senate, youve got the institutionalists versus the disruptors. And across the Trump administration, there will be ideologues on various sides of questions from military intervention to fiscal priorities to the engines of economic prosperity. In a demonstration of how the holidays can bring out the worst festering conflicts within a family, the flap in MAGA world last week over immigration exposed just one of these splits. To sum up: Trump announced on December 22 a series of White House appointments, including the India-born tech venture capitalist Sriram Krishnan as a technology adviser. Krishnans vocal support for expediting more high-skilled immigration to the U.S. kicked a hornets nest in certain corners of the populist right. MAGA activist Laura Loomer called his appointment troubling and said increasing high-skilled immigration was not America First policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What ensued was a contentious back-and-forth on social media between the hardcore immigration restrictionists and the relatively new-to-the-party tech bros who defended specialty work visas like the H-1B program. That debate was signal-boosted on December 25 when Elon Musk tweeted that in America there is a permanent shortage of excellent engineering talent in a way thats hurting Silicon Valleys growth potential. (Merry Christmas from the worlds richest man!) Musks fellow head of the forthcoming Department of Government Efficiency, Vivek Ramaswamy, chimed in the next day with a jeremiad about how the current culture in America does not produce the best engineers, forcing tech companies to recruit foreign-born or first-generation immigrants. The argument over H-1B visas and others continued online (with Musk even claiming he will go to war over the issue) and even spilled over onto cable news. At one point, MAGA media impresario Steve Bannon called Musk a toddler and harangued him on his online show War Room. It took Donald Trump himself to intervene in the squabble. The president-elect, who near the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 had signed an executive order temporarily suspending specialty visa holders from entering the United States, stepped in to defend high-skilled immigration. Ive always liked the visas, I have always been in favor of the visas. Thats why we have them, Trump told the New York Post Saturday. I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. Its a great program. And at the Wall Street Journal editorial page, there was much rejoicing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps call for MAGA peace reflects a desire by the incoming president to hold together the unity he and his campaign touted in the weeks and months before Election Day. But in a broad coalition that includes everyone from the former Democrat Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the traditionalist Republican poster boy and new Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the cracks are already showing. There are the potential roadblocks in the Senate to some of Trumps most controversial nominees. There was the pre-Christmas spending resolution battle that had fiscal conservatives in the Republican conference allying with Musk to torpedo a compromise crafted in part by GOP House Speaker Mike Johnsononly to have Trump himself lumber in with a new proposal to extend the debt ceiling early, which went nowhere. And there is the shaky effort to put together a foreign policy team in the administration that pushes hawks and non-interventionists to play nice together. The most immediate next fight will happen this Friday, when the House will vote on a speaker. With such a narrow margin for the new Republican majority, Johnson can survive only two defections if he hopes to win another term. Sensing grumbling from the most strident conservatives, Trump has once again jumped into the fray. Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement, he posted on Truth Social Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps lengthy endorsement is not only an attempt to cut off any dissension in the House GOP ranks (though it does not seem to have squelched it all). It also revealed how anxious the president-elect is that his self-proclaimed massive victory could be squandered by disunity. LETS NOT BLOW THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY WHICH WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN, he urged in that post. But unity in American politics is a fickle thing, despite (or in some cases because of) attempts to enforce it. And the circumstances of Trumps second presidency make it a unique situation to navigate. He is coming back to the White House already a lame duck, with a party aligned behind him but as unsure as ever of what comes after the Trump era. There is ample evidence that his threats to primary disloyal Republicans are hit-or-miss. And the jockeying for who will succeed him as the GOPs standard bearer in 2028 begins as soon as Trump takes the oath of office on the Capitol steps next month. What will this look like over the next year, two years, four years? There is that narrow majority in the House, yes, but also the unpredictable Republican majority in the Senate, both of which will require creative rethinking of how to shepherd Trumps legislative priorities through Capitol Hill. It may take just one Republican congressman with a good friend to become king or queen of the House, dictating to Speaker Johnson (or whomever wins the gavel) how things will operate. But depending on the issue, the pair of members micturating in the Houses punchbowl may not always come from the far right of the conference. And what about a larger coalition, say 20 to 40 members from closer to the center of the ideological spectrum, making demands? There can be power at the margins of such small majorities, as outgoing Sens. Joe Manchin and Krysten Sinema can attest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while Trump appears to have sided with Musk and his new Silicon Valley friends on the high-skilled immigration front, he has proven to be an ad-hoc president. And so long as warring factions within his tribe sense that the head honchos mind could be changed, the fracturing will continue. Buckle up. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's threats to cut off electricity supplies to Kyiv won't work, Ukraine's Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said in a Dec. 31 interview with Politico. Halushchenko's statement follows Fico's declaration on Dec. 27 that his government would consider halting electricity supplies to Ukraine, after Kyiv announced it would not extend the deal on transit of Russian gas to Europe beyond Dec. 31. Halushchenko said that Ukraine could compensate for any disruption by importing electricity from Romania and Poland, and that Fico's potential actions would "violate EU regulations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement echoed President Volodymyr Zelensky's remarks on Dec. 21, in which he directly addressed Fico's threats. "Any arbitrary decisions in Bratislava or instructions from Moscow to Fico regarding electricity will not lead to a halt in electricity imports to Ukraine," Zelensky said, adding: "Slovakia is part of the unified European energy market, and Fico must abide by pan-European regulations." Halushchenko also said that cutting off electricity supplies would primarily harm Slovakia's own economy. "This is not about receiving subsidies or free electricity. We pay for the electricity we receive," he said, estimating that halting exports could cost Slovakia "hundreds of millions of dollars" annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Foreign Ministry echoed these sentiments in a Dec. 28 press briefing, stressing that "Slovakia's supply of critical amounts of electricity to Ukraine is not charity: Ukraine pays Slovakia a significant amount for it." The ministry also criticized Ficos rhetoric, saying: "By making senseless threats to cut off Ukraine's electricity, which it buys and does not receive as a gift, Prime Minister Robert Fico is effectively aligning himself with the Russian dictator." Fico held talks with Putin on Dec. 22 during a visit to Moscow, during which they discussed gas transit, the war in Ukraine and the standardization of "mutual relations" between Russia and Slovakia. Read also: Ukraine war latest: In world first, Ukrainian sea drone downs Russian helicopter Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Finnish investigators probing the damage to a Baltic Sea power cable and several data cables said they found an anchor drag mark on the seabed, apparently from a Russia-linked vessel that has already been seized. The discovery heightened concerns about suspected sabotage by Russias shadow fleet of fuel tankers aging vessels with obscure ownership acquired to evade Western sanctions amid the war in Ukraine and operating without Western-regulated insurance. The Estlink-2 power cable, which transmits energy from Finland to Estonia across the Baltic Sea, went down on Dec. 25 after a rupture. It had little impact on services but followed damage to two data cables and the Nord Stream gas pipelines, both of which have been termed sabotage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finnish police chief investigator, Sami Paila, said late Sunday the anchor drag trail continued for dozens of kilometers (miles) ... if not almost 100 kilometers (62 miles). Paila added to Finnish national TV broadcaster Yle: Our current understanding is that the drag mark in question is that of the anchor of the (seized) Eagle S vessel. We have been able to clarify this matter through underwater research. Without giving further details, Paila said authorities have a preliminary understanding of what happened at sea, how the anchor mark was created there, and stressed that the question of intent is a completely essential issue to be clarified in the preliminary investigation. On Saturday, the seized vessel was escorted to anchorage in the vicinity of the port of Porvoo to facilitate the investigation, officials said. It is being probed under criminal charges of aggravated interference with telecommunications, aggravated vandalism and aggravated regulatory offense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Eagle S is flagged in the Cook Islands but was described by Finnish customs officials and the European Union executive commission as part of Russias shadow fleet of fuel tankers. Russias use of the vessels has raised environmental concerns about accidents given their age and uncertain insurance coverage. In the wake of the cable rupture, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said last week that the military alliance, which Finland joined last year, will step up patrols in the Baltic Sea region. The Finnish Coast Guard said Monday that another tanker ship headed for a Russian port has engine failure and drifted, then anchored in the Gulf of Finland south of the Hanko Paninsula. The guard said it was notified Sunday night. Registered in Panama, the M/T Jazz was en route to Primorsk, Russia, from Sudan, with apparently no oil cargo. Finnish authorities have dispatched a tugboat and a patrol ship to ensure that the vessel does not drift and to prevent any damage to the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regional director of the Coast Guard, Janne Ryonankoski, said there was no immediate risk to the seabed infrastructure. Earlier Monday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said that sabotage in Europe has increased since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Kallas told the German newspaper Welt that the recent sabotage attempts in the Baltic Sea are not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of deliberate and coordinated actions to damage our digital and energy infrastructure. She vowed that the EU would take stronger measures to counter the risks posed by vessels of Russias shadow fleet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometer (832-mile) border with Russia, abandoned its decades-long policy of neutrality and joined NATO in 2023, amid Russias war against Ukraine. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Beckham Botts, now 3, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma two days before he was born in December 2021 Beckham has had an interest in fire trucks since he was 1 year old After receiving video birthday messages from firefighters who responded to his mom's social media post, Beckham toured a fire station in Phoenix The recent birthday of a 3-year-old Arizona boy who is battling cancer became even sweeter, thanks to caring firefighters in Phoenix and across the country. Two days before his birth in December 2021, Beckham Botts was diagnosed with neuroblastoma a cancer that commonly occurs in and around the adrenal gland and affects children age 5 or younger, according to the Mayo Clinic. Theres no treatment or anything like that, and it just continuously has gotten smaller, Beckhams mother, McKenna, told AZFamily. So, were very lucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Mom Welcomes Fourth Baby Who Shares the Same Birthday with Her 3 Big Sisters: Blows My Mind (Exclusive) Beckhams father Eric told ABC affiliate KNXV that Beckhams first holidays after he was born were spent in the neonatal intensive care unit, later followed by numerous doctors visits. McKenna also told KNXV that Beckham developed an interest in firetrucks when he spotted one while he and his family were out on the porch at the age of 1. "He was just pointing at it," McKenna remembered. "He couldn't even talk yet, just pointing at it." KNXV reported that since then, Beckhams interest in firefighting has included wearing miniature uniforms and collecting fire trucks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it came time for his third birthday, Beckhams family wanted to make the occasion very special. So McKenna went on social media and asked firefighters to submit videos or photos to the family or even invite them to a fire station, AZFamily reported. Related: Little Boy, 6, Celebrates Birthday Alone After No One Turned Up to His Pizza Party Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The request went viral and Beckham received video birthday messages from firefighters nationwide as well as invitations to their fire stations, said the family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is so incredible to me because when you think of firefighters, you think of strong and brave and all of those things, and that's exactly our Beckham, McKenna told KNXV. Then, on Dec. 19, Beckham and his family were invited to visit Station 56 in north Phoenix to mark the boys birthday, AZFamily reported. There, Beckham met firefighter-paramedic Michael Lorenz, went inside a fire truck wearing a fire helmet, held a fire hose and received a birthday cake. Hes definitely a lot tougher than we are, Lorenz said of Beckham to AZFamily. He is a hero. For his parents to be as tough as they are, to be able to deal with that and to still be mom and dad and to still put a smile on his face... thats just amazing to see that. Beckhams family expressed their gratitude to the firefighters for making their childs dream come true. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Strangers All Around the World Help Map-Loving 12-Year-Old Celebrate His Birthday I cant even find the words, honestly, McKenna said, according to KNXV. Thank you guys so, so much for making our boys day special. She also told AZFamily that Beckham would like to be a firefighter one day. "I just like saw a glimpse of that with his fire hat on and shooting the hose and everything, McKenna told the outlet. When you think of firefighters, you think of strong and brave. Thats exactly what I think of with my son, too. PEOPLE reached out to McKenna Botts for comment on Tuesday, Dec. 31. A Facebook page was created by the family describing his journey. Read the original article on People SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A golden retriever was rescued after it fell from a cliff at Fort Funston Monday. A San Francisco Fire Department rescue team was able to scale down the cliff and reach the dog on a beach. The golden retriever was determined to be OK and uninjured, SFFD said. Nearly a dozen dogs had to be rescued from Fort Funstons steep cliffs throughout 2024. In July, a dog owner and three pooches were trapped on a cliffside until they were rescued by SFFD. A few days earlier, a poodle and its owner ventured away from a trail before they were trapped on a cliff overlooking the ocean. In March, a couple was hiking with their collie after sunset and became stranded in darkness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SFFD suggests that hikers ensure their dogs are leashed while exploring the areas trails. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. CLINTON, Miss. (WJTV) A new Firehouse Subs restaurant has opened in the City of Clinton. The restaurant is located at 322 Highway 80 East, Suite 10 and is owned and operated by William Craig. What are the top baby names in Mississippi for 2024? We are thrilled to be a part of the Firehouse Subs family and bring our hearty and flavorful subs to the Clinton community, said Craig. We cant wait to meet new guests and support our local first responders through our portion of every purchase program that benefits Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Clinton Square restaurant displays decor that reflects the founding familys decades of fire and police service with gear and photos donated by local fire departments. It also boasts a custom, hand-painted mural by Chief Mural Artist Joe Puskas, featuring a Clinton Fire Department fire truck and firefighter standing in front of Mary Nelson Hall on the Mississippi College campus. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. BAGHDAD, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Iraq and Syria have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group, Iraq's foreign ministry said in a statement on Monday. In a phone call, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and his Syrian interim counterpart Asaad al-Shaibani emphasized the shared security of their nations and pledged cooperation to counter IS threats near the common border, the statement said. Al-Shaibani confirmed Syria's readiness to coordinate with Iraq to confront the IS group, the statement added. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) With one of the most celebrated holidays upon us, it is important to know when and where fireworks are allowed for New Years Eve and day. Dothan : Fireworks are not allowed within Dothan city limits Enterprise : Fireworks are not allowed within Enterprise city limits Abbeville : Fireworks are allowed within Abbeville city limits. However, police ask citizens to stop discharging fireworks by 10:00 p.m. Geneva : Fireworks are allowed within Geneva city limits. However, police ask citizens to stop discharging fireworks by midnight. Daleville : Fireworks are not allowed within Daleville City limits Blakely, Georgia: Fireworks are allowed within Blakely city limits Ozark: Fireworks are not allowed within Ozark city limits Level Plains: Fireworks are allowed within Level Plains city limits While fireworks are not banned in unincorporated parts of each county (Dale, Geneva, Coffee, Houston, and Henry), local sheriffs ask citizens to be safe while using fireworks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. CENTER POINT, Ala. (WIAT) Your New Years plans may include setting off fireworks Tuesday night. The city of Center Point passed a new ordinance in 2024 to allow businesses to sell fireworks, so residents can keep that money locally. Kayla Flournoy owns Grave Digger Fireworks along Center Point Parkway. She said she worked for four years to be able to sell fireworks in the city now and around the Fourth of July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the beginning, its normally slow, Flournoy said. Toward New Years Eve and towards the first is when it picks up. She said shes happy to be able to support the community and wants everyone to do safely. along with the Center Point Fire District. It makes me feel good because we already have a business here in Center Point, which is a dance team, so to bring another business to Center Point makes us feel great, Flournoy said. While fireworks can be fun and pretty to look at, if you plan to use fireworks while celebrating the new year, Center Point Fire Chief Brandon Dahlen said to plan ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said having a water source nearby is key. Be mindful of how close you are to buildings or anything that can catch on fire and have an idea of what direction fireworks can go. Its an explosive that youre holding in your hand, Dahlen said. If its discharged at the wrong time, it will cause injury. But in addition to safety, you should know the rules for what you can and cannot do to set them off. Be very mindful of where you live exactly because fireworks sales are legal in the county, but where you live and reside, it may be illegal to use them, Dahlen said. Be sure to check in with your local police to make sure you dont break the law. Dahlen also said the other big problem they see is celebratory gunfire. Its illegal, not safe and can hit someone without you even knowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Leadership at the First Baptist Church of the City of Washington D.C. is mourning the loss of the late President Jimmy Carter, who was a member of the congregation during his four-year term. Jimmy Carter was first and foremost a person of faith, said Senior Pastor Julie Pennington-Russell. Everything he did from peanut farmer to President of the United States really flowed out of the person he was at the core, which was a follower of Christ. A Christian. Carter passed away Sunday at the age of 100. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the 39th President of the United States, Carter joined the Dupont Circle church just days after taking office. White House announces state funeral for Jimmy Carter [The Carter family] stood and walked to the front and filled out some little cards and then really began a four-year journey with this church that was marked by great participation and involvement, said Pennington-Russell. It had a monumental effect on the church then. According to the National Archives, President Carter attended Sunday service more than 70 times. His attendance is marked by a plaque on the pew he and his family sat in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its a very rare thing for a President not just to attend worship but to be part of a congregation, said Pennington-Russell. I believe that had a real grounding effect on President Carter. I think it was important for him because it helped him to remember who he was. Not only did Carter regularly attend, but he also taught Sunday School to couples at the church. He was very conversational. He would take pieces of the bible, and he would teach. And he would often teach by asking questions. What do you think? said the Pastor. Pennington-Russell said Carters legacy at the church will continue to live on long after his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some people like to draw the lines very tightly and eager to exclude and Jimmy Carter was someone whose heart and mind were so wide. His perspective was so broad and I loved that about him, she said. The church will hold a prayer service in honor of Carter on Sunday, Jan. 5 at 6 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. President Joe Biden is not the only White House resident making job status updates to their LinkedIn profiles. First lady Jill Biden has quit her day job. At a recent thank you event for educators across the country, Biden announced shes stepping away from the college teaching position she has held for the past 15 years. Being your first lady has been the honor of my life but being your colleague has been the work of my life, said Biden at the Dec. 16 virtual gathering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last Thursday, I taught my last class of the semester, and my final class ever at Northern Virginia Community College. I will always love this profession, which is why I continue to teach full time while serving as your first lady. It is uncertain if Biden, 73, is retiring from teaching altogether or simply resigning from NVCC at around the same time her husband is finishing his presidential term, according to The Associated Press. In a statement posted on her LinkedIn page, North Virginia CC president Anne Kress called Biden an exceptional faculty member who is respected and beloved by students and colleagues: Dr Biden always a teacher at heart made our students success her priority. As she retires after an exemplary career, she leaves a lasting legacy in the lives of the students she taught, mentored and inspired over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kress also called Biden an unequaled champion for Americas community colleges. NVCC is a public community college with an enrollment of over 50,000 students. A first lady on the faculty Jill Bidens 15-year teaching tenure at North Virginia Community College, where she taught English and writing, was historic. After her husband became the countrys 46th president in 2021, Jill Biden continued teaching at the community college, becoming the first presidential spouse to maintain an independent career outside of the White House. Bidens teaching career stretches back almost a half-century. After earning a bachelors degree from the University of Delaware, she began teaching English at Wilmingtons St. Marks High School in 1976. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She married Joe Biden a year later and the two had a daughter, Ashley, in 1981. Jill Biden later taught English at Rockford Center psychiatric hospital while pursuing graduate studies. In 1993, she made the professional shift to higher education, accepting a teaching position at Delaware Technical Community College. After claiming a doctorate of education, Jill Biden began teaching at North Virginia Community College in 2009 after her husband became Barack Obamas vice president and resided full-time in Washington, D.C. She has often said, Teaching isnt just what I do its who I am. Jill Biden drew an annual salary of $85,985 as a North Virginia professor, according to The Hill. So how was professor Biden regarded by her students? According to responses tallied on the Rate My Professor website that invites college students to post reviews of their instructors, Biden received a 4.4 score out of a possible 5 with a 5 rated as awesome and a 1 being awful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Common tags on the ratings website classified Biden as respected and inspirational along with being a tough grader who assigns a lot of homework. There is a lot of writing to do, but if you complete the work assignments you will get a good grade, wrote one of her students. She does not expect students to know, she will teach the class everything. Take her; you will not regret it! Posted another North Virginia Community College student: Dr. Jill Biden is the best. Literally. I hated English more than anything before, but she made me love it. Im not gonna lie, she gives a lot of homework, makes you work for the good grade, but its 101% worth it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loved her and would take her classes over and over again. Professor Biden: Respected but a tough grader No surprise, not every student was a professor Biden fan. Not motivating at all, posted a student in 2020. I know there are teachers teaching the class way more interesting than her section. Let me tell you, avoid her! Shout-out to Americas teachers Jill Biden utilized the Dec. 16 virtual thank you event for educators event to salute teachers who are changing lives. Every day, you see something in your students a spark of passion, a glimmer of talent and you say: Dont let the world miss out on your light. Every student, she added, can be a sun ray of a teachers legacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont always see how far that light travels, she said. But right now, someone out there is standing a little taller because you helped them find the confidence they needed. Someone is working a little harder, because you pushed them to try. National Education Association President Becky Pringle, who participated in the virtual event, said Jill Biden has left a teaching legacy that wont end as you leave the peoples house. Youll continue to do work because, let me tell you, I know, for one, Ill be reaching out. After a Nazi march that took place last month in Columbus, Ohio, disturbing racist signs are now popping up in Cleveland. The flyers, which promote white supremacist ideology, have been seen in the Tremont neighborhood as reported by local station WOIO. One of the signs states Embrace your race alongside a picture of a white family. Another says White Unity, Love Your People and includes a caption that reads, Every other race looks out for each other/Isnt it time white people start to do the same? The station also shared that in the left hand corner of one of the flyers is the name and logo of a company named Will2Rise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, Will2Rise was on the Southern Poverty Law Centers list of white nationalist hate groups that espouse white supremacist or white separatist ideologies, often focusing on the alleged inferiority of people of color. Photo: WOIO The Southern Poverty Law Center also stated that the hate groups have a primary goal to create a white ethnostate. WOIO reached out to Councilman Kerry McCormack for comment on the removal of the signs. Ive received emails and calls from residents, but have not been briefed by city hall yet, McCormack stated. Obviously a vile, disgusting and pathetic act. Im going to see if we can find camera footage of whoever is doing this. In the meantime Im encouraging residents to tear them down and throw them away wherever they see them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio has been the center of racist controversy throughout 2024. In addition to the Nazi march, two boys in Northeast Ohio went viral in September over a social media post showing a racist homecoming proposal. That same month, an Ohio sheriff told residents to document the addresses of homes with Vice President Kamala Harris campaign signs. I say...write down all the addresses of the people who had her signs in their yards! Sooo...when the Illegal human Locust (which she supports!) Need places to live...Well already have the addresses of the their New families...who supported their arrival! Portage County Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski wrote in a now-deleted Facebook post. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. (WTNH) Its New Years Eve day, which means they are getting ready for First Night in Hartford to New Haven. In Hartford, Mayor Arunan Arulampalam spoke with News 8 on what to expect in the states capital. If youre looking for something to do, New Years Eve it is a great free event, family, friendly, said Arulampalam. There is a fireworks show at 6 oclock. And another one at midnight, along with kids programs, musical shows, karaoke, comedy and even dancing. The ice time and skate rentals are also free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the point in the story I normally put on my skates and go on the ice and show you how I look like Bambi on ice, falling all over the place. But right now theyre building the ice up for Tuesday, the big night. Its in great shape. They have a little bit more to do on it, but they say if you want to beat the lines the best thing to do is get here early, it opens at 11 AM. And while First Night brings back the nostalgia of twinkle lights, city lights, cold, breath, and hot cocoa, some people will be making new memories, like this family from Georgia that has already laced up their skates for the first time on the Hartford ice. I did alright, because its kind of like rollerblading, so he struggled a bit, but its all right, said Karleigh McCoy New Haven also bringing back First Night on the town Green. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre going to have a carousel and a giant slide, and were going to have some live music as well as some vending for people to access food trucks, said New Haven Mayor Justin Elickor. In New Haven, First Night starts at 2 p.m, and ends at 7 p.m. Hartford also starts at 2 p.m and runs through midnight. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Thousands of Habitat for Humanity volunteers are remembering former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, as global champions for affordable housing. On Monday, Channel 2s Michel Seiden spent the day in southeast Atlanta, where he spoke with first-time homebuyers who live on Carter Way in the Browns Mill Village community. It feels amazing, said Ebony, a mother of three who asked us not to use her last name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ebony told Seiden that she wouldnt have been able to purchase her first house if it wasnt for the assistance provided to her by Atlanta Habitat for Humanity. We really do appreciate him for all of his hard work, his dedication, and everything that he has done, Ebony said. RELATED STORIES: The Carters service with Habitat for Humanity began in 1984 when President Carter and his wife Rosalynn built a home in Americus. In 1988, Atlanta was one of the first cities to host the inaugural Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, a weeklong blitz build that resulted in the construction of 21 homes in the Edgewood Community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, the Carters worked alongside more than 108,000 volunteers who have built, renovated or repaired more than 4,000 homes in 14 different countries. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was a humanitarian, teacher, author, and public servant whose impact on our nation and our world will be remembered with gratitude for generations to come, said Atlanta Habitat for Humanity President and CEO Rosalyn Merrick. While we grieve his passing with heavy hearts, were grateful for the decades he spent building homes and empowering families as a global champion for affordable housing. A spokesperson for Habitat for Humanity confirmed that the 2025 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project is still scheduled to take place in Austin, Texas on Oct. 26-31. Despite Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election, commentator Rob Schofield says there are many reasons for progressives to remain optimistic and engaged in 2025. (Getty Images) Good riddance. Thats the first thought that springs to mind for a lot of caring and thinking people as they contemplate the passing of 2024 into the history books. Despite numerous moments of accomplishment and progress, the late-year decision of 49.9% of the American electorate to return Donald Trump and his uniquely toxic combination of narcissism and megalomania to the White House has been enough to leave much of the rest of the country throwing up their hands in despair and searching their bathroom cabinets for sleep aids and anti-anxiety meds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe youve had similar thoughts. What disasters now await? How will we survive the next four years? How can I avoid consuming the news for the foreseeable future? Its an understandable reaction. Especially for those of us who reside in swing states where the 2024 election often felt like a relentless, nerve-jangling assault, the temptation to turn inward, tune out the grim noise thats sure to come, and focus for the time being on adjusting ones own psychic oxygen mask is powerful. And yet, as a few deep breaths and a moment of quiet contemplation reveal, the hard truth is that now is no time for those who believe in peace, tolerance, sustainability and democracy to abandon the world of policy and politics. Not only is there a tremendous need for engagement and activism to help blunt the worst of what the Trump-Musk kakistocracy promises to inflict on the nation, there are important reasons to feel a sense of hope and even optimism for where we are and what remains possible in the coming years. Here are five: 1) Trump is likely at the pinnacle of his power. Its true that Trump is a unique figure in American history with a rare and disturbing hold on most of the other elected officials in his party. But he is also a rapidly aging, frequently confused and notoriously undisciplined and mercurial lame duck politician who has only razor-thin majorities with which to work in Congress. He and some of his supporters may harbor and espouse grand ambitions, but his first term record indicates little chance that he will actually pull many of them off. Its true that significant damage lies ahead, but a true sea change is American democracy remains unlikely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2) Public opinion remains progressive on most issues. Notwithstanding a few unfortunate outliers (most notably immigration policy, where irrational fear and lies have caused many Americans to forget what our nation stands for) American public opinion continues to trend progressive on numerous issues from the climate crisis to healthcare to tax fairness to abortion rights to LGBTQ equality. And as the decision of GOP lawmakers to, at last, bend to public opinion on Medicaid expansion in North Carolina demonstrated, what voters think still matters. 3) The far right lost big in North Carolina. A lot of Americans are certainly very conservative. And many, who eschew labels and ideology made clear they were willing to give Trump another try. But as the recent election in North Carolina demonstrated convincingly, the far right is not a majority, nor likely to become one. Instead, the voters of a GOP-leaning state rejected the Republican nominees for governor, attorney general, lt. governor, superintendent of public instruction and state Supreme Court Mark Robinson, Dan Bishop, Hal Weatherman, Michele Morrow and Jefferson Griffin in favor of five moderate-to-progressive Democrats: Josh Stein, Jeff Jackson, Rachel Hunt, Mo Green and Allison Riggs. 4) The existential issue of our times demands our attention. There remain plenty of reasons to be deeply concerned about the global climate emergency that is wreaking havoc on our planet and will continue to do so for decades to come. And Trumps election wont help. But its also true that, as Bloomberg News reported last week, humanity made several important advances in 2024 from the rapid growth in the deployment of solar power and electric vehicles to the demise of coal to an array of new investments and important scientific breakthroughs. If ever an issue cried out for continued and sustained engagement, this is it. 5) U.S. demographic trends remain on a positive course. Like many wealthy nations, the U.S. is home to an aging population and that certainly is helpful to the political right. As the Pew Research Center reported a few months back, the older an American is, the more likely they are to support conservative candidates. But its also true that the nations future young people and people of color favor progressive candidates by a wide margin. As the minor inroads among some groups Trump made in November make clear, these trends arent ironclad. But on the whole, in such an environment, a political movement based on the idea of building a brighter future, rather than somehow attempting to reclaim the past has to be much better positioned in the long run. So, farewell 2024. One wishes youd ended on a better note. But 2025 is here. Lets get back to work. Dec. 31The space industry is growing rapidly and NewSpace Nexus wants New Mexico to be the next major hub for companies looking to innovate. The Albuquerque-based organization, which has a co-innovation hub for space-oriented startups and runs programs such as the NewSpace Ignitor and Pathway to the Stars, is celebrating five years this month. The Journal sat down with NewSpace Founder and CEO Casey Anglada DeRaad to discuss what the company does, what it has learned since its founding and where it expects the space industry to be in the next decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These answers have been edited and condensed for clarity. NewSpace Nexus was founded in 2019 and your organization is celebrating five years. What is it that NewSpace does? "NewSpace Nexus is accelerating the pace of space innovation by uniting and igniting space. We launched NewSpace Nexus on Dec. 19, 2019, with the collaboration, experience and brainpower of over 200 space industry stakeholders across government, academia, and the private sector and across New Mexico in what we now call Space Valley. A fun fact to share is that we launched NewSpace the day before the new military service branch, the U.S. Space Force, was started. As a key organization that we collaborate with, it's fun and exciting to be celebrating our five-year anniversaries this week alongside one another. Today, we are proud to celebrate five years of success and $50 million in economic impact for the space companies we serve. We help them move from concept to product to sales faster with our 'Unite and Ignite' approach to grow the end-to-end space innovation pipeline faster and better. "Our community is now more than 6,000 strong as we serve as an independent nonprofit that continually listens to and collaborates with an ever-increasing number of cross-sector stakeholders here in New Mexico and across the country to increase economic prosperity, and ensure the United States' continued leadership in space. ... NewSpace Nexus was built on the philosophy that the space industry will move forward faster and better when we all work together. It has been an honor to do just that, while providing space companies with faster access to the right connections, resources, customers and collaborations needed to get their products into space in less time. " Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What has NewSpace learned about itself and also the space economy in New Mexico over those past five years? "NewSpace Nexus has built a successful formula to accelerate innovation, collaboration and economic impact for the state of New Mexico with far-reaching impact across the nation. We work tirelessly to understand industry needs and address the problems space companies face that prevent their success, so more innovations make it into space. Our incubator-like NewSpace Ignitor program serves more than 25 companies per year and starts with an assessment to figure out what resources each company needs. We then work with them to turn their concepts into revenue-generating products. This includes showcasing their innovations to money sources, like investors and government contracts. By taking a holistic, end-to-end approach to progress innovation, we enable more companies to succeed. Approximately one-third of the companies in our NewSpace Ignitor program have expressed an interest in expanding or locating offices in New Mexico. They learn that New Mexico is a great place to thrive as we introduce them to our amazing partners and share our innovation ecosystem, national laboratories, purpose-built spaceport, investor partners like the New Mexico Angels and Space Fund, and the three Space Force organizations that work in the state the Space Rapid Capabilities Office, the Air Force Research Laboratory and Space Systems Command. We track and work with over 140 space companies in New Mexico, up from 60 five years ago." Where does NewSpace Nexus and the space economy stand now in the state compared to the rest of the country, and where will it be in the next decade based on the movement happening here? "New Mexico was a leader in the first space race. Five years ago, NewSpace Nexus began sharing the growing space industry opportunity, uniting the many stakeholders together, and highlighting that New Mexico is positioned to lead in this new space race. We convened the many partners to amplify the amazing space assets in our region, launched our igniting programs to support space industry, and developed our national Space Industrial Base conferences to collaboratively progress innovation at a company level as well as the national space industry level from New Mexico for the nation. "The nation is making policy decisions based on recommendations from the NewSpace Nexus annual State of the Space Industrial Base Conference that brings hundreds of space companies and government leaders from across the nation to New Mexico. It provides recommendations that inform the White House, executive members of congress, the National Space Council and the broader ecosystem. Other states are seeing our impact and are proactively reaching out to us to expand our NewSpace co-innovation ecosystem to their regions for collective benefit and impact. Our competition is not other states our competition is China. The more we work together, the more we can capitalize on our hyper-growth industry, which is forecasted to grow to $3 trillion in the next 20 years. Our work is exciting today, every day, and will be even more exciting for New Mexico in the years to come." A flight attendant aboard a Swiss aircraft that made an emergency landing in Austria due to smoke in the cabin has died, the airline said Tuesday. The flight from Bucharest to Zurich on Dec. 23 was diverted to Graz after engine problems and smoke filled the cockpit and the cabin, Swiss International Air Lines said in a statement. It said the attendant died Monday in intensive care in the hospital in Graz. The attendant was one of two crew members who were hospitalized. All 74 passengers aboard the Airbus A220-300 were evacuated after flight LX1885 landed safely, Swiss said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are devastated at our dear colleague's death," Swiss Chief Executive Officer Jens Fehlinger said in the statement. "His loss has left us all in the deepest shock and grief. Our thoughts are with his family, whose pain we cannot imagine. I offer them my heartfelt condolences on behalf of all of us at Swiss." Swiss is a subsidiary of German airline Lufthansa. Swiss said in its statement that "out of respect for the loved ones, we will not provide detailed information about our employee or the cause of death." "Thank you in advance for helping us ensure that the family have the time and the privacy to grieve," the airline added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twelve passengers received medical attention after the incidet, Agence France-Presse reported. The airline on Tuesday said that all passengers who were admitted to hospital had since been able to leave. The public prosecutor's office in Graz has ordered a forensic examination of the attendant's body, Austria's APA news agency reported. It has also appointed an aviation expert and initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident. Following the incident, Swiss said it was also conducting an internal examination. "We want to thoroughly clarify the causes of the smoke and the effects on passengers and crew," the airline wrote on Thursday. "The focus is on the mechanical parts of the aircraft, such as the engine, but also on the use of protective equipment for the cabin crew, known as Protective Breathing Equipment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The airline said initial findings "point to a technical problem in one of the engines," adding that it was "not ruling out anything and are working closely with the relevant authorities, the engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney and the aircraft manufacturer Airbus." Swiss Bombardier A220-300 aircraft spotted on final approach flying, arriving for landing at the runway of Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos ATH at the Greek capital in July 2024. / Credit: Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images "This is the saddest of days for us all," Swiss COO Oliver Buchhofer said in a statement. "Losing our colleague and fellow member of our SWISS team leaves me distraught and dismayed. But we stand with one another at this truly difficult time; and we will be doing our utmost, together with the relevant authorities, to determine the causes involved. We have many questions, and we want them answered." What to know about the College Football Playoff quarterfinals CBS News 24/7 Credits 2024 What to know about norovirus as cases surge across U.S. MANILA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Two unidentified gunmen shot dead a police intelligence officer and wounded three other people in Sultan Kudarat province in the southern Philippines, local police said Tuesday. Sultan Kudarat police director Colonel Bernard Lao said the victim died on the spot from gunshot wounds in the head and body on Monday night. Lao said the victim was sitting at a small village store while conducting surveillance with other civilian agents when attacked by the gunmen. The three wounded civilian agents were transported to a local hospital for treatment. A flight diverted to Pittsburgh International Airport on Tuesday morning because of a possible lightning strike. An American Airlines official tells Channel 11 that a flight traveling to Boston from Columbus diverted to Pittsburgh as a precaution after experiencing a possible lightning strike shortly after takeoff. The official says the flight landed around 8 a.m. without incident and taxied to the gate on its own power. Passengers are being swapped onto another plane to complete their trip to Boston. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW As the year wraps up, its worth reflecting on our warm-weather, iguana-friendly refuge to assess where weve been and where we are going. Florida, it turns out, did not lose its ability to amaze, entertain and surprise the rest of America in 2024. Im not just talking about the way voters turned against legalizing recreational marijuana largely on the argument that it would make Florida too smelly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida? Too smelly? Cmon, we control half the nations strategic reserve of body odor. In a similar act of public decorum, the Town of Palm Beach took a stand against outdoor hooting within the town limits between midnight and 7 a.m. It was part of an overall town ordinance against yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling or singing on public streets in the middle of the night. Well, at least hollerin remained untouched. Although probably not around Mar-a-Lago, which is now being patrolled by robot dogs since Donald Trump was awarded a mulligan by voters to give that president thing another go. A Secret Service robot dog patrols the grounds of Mar-a-Lago in November. Speaking of hollerin, complaints over the lack of affordable housing in the state continued while the insurance crisis deepened, leaving scores of homeowners griping about their skyrocketing premiums and the reluctance of companies to continue to insure Floridians against hurricanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the private insurance market withering under the assault of two hurricanes this year Helene and Milton causing billions of dollars in damage, the states insurer of last resort, Citizens Property Insurance Corp., stepped up its practice of actively dumping its customers back on the shrinking private market. That hasnt stopped the tourists from coming. This year has been a record year for visitors, with about 90 percent of the tourists being people from other states. But they wont be coming for SunFest next year. The iconic waterfront music festival that began in West Palm Beach in 1983 announced that it had lost millions of dollars and half of its audience recently, and therefore would be taking a hiatus next year to create something new and fresh. People watch ALO perform at the Ford stage during SunFest 2023 in West Palm Beach Saturday May 6, 2023. Brightline, the higher speed train designed to connect Central and South Florida had a big burst in ridership in 2024, the first full year its link from West Palm Beach to Orlando was operational. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plans to add new stations in Stuart and Cocoa Beach are in the works while lawmakers, in an effort to keep negligent motorists and pedestrians from ignoring lowered crossing gates, raised fines to $500 or six hours of community service this year for those trying to beat the train. Brightline train traveling southbound cruises through Jonathan Dickinson State Park Oct. 2, 2024 in Hobe Sound. Will it work? Dont bet on it. In other dangerous news items from 2024, Floridas Surgeon Gen. Joseph Ladapo, a medical outlier who is frequently at odds with the consensus medical advice from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration, has advised Floridians not to take the latest COVID-19 booster. The FDA said the booster provides better protections against serious consequences of COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other state government news, for the second year in a row, lawmakers in the Florida House of Representatives passed a bill to lower the permissible age to buy military-style rifles to 18 years old. And for the second year in a row, that effort failed in the Florida Senate, with the bill dying in committee. While the two chambers couldnt agree on a minimum age for AR-15 buying, they did agree in 2024 on a law that requires strippers in Florida to be no younger than 21 years old. As always, Florida entertained the masses in 2024 This was a breakthrough year for the concept of Florida Man, which has gone from social media lore to a new Netflix series that dramatizes real episodes of Floridians behaving badly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As if to demonstrate that this concept doesnt have to worry about running out of material, an Orlando-area woman was sentenced this month for killing her boyfriend in a most unusual way. She zipped him inside a suitcase while they were arguing with each other. Then she left him in the suitcase overnight, which proved to be fatal. And remember that banana taped to a gallery wall that debuted at the prestigious Art Basel Miami five years ago? Well, it sold at auction this year for $6.2 million to a crypto entrepreneur, who said he plans to eat the 35-cent banana. Youre welcome, America. While it was a good year for banana-related art, it was a bad year for arts organizations in Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats because Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million in state grants to arts groups across Florida. Locally, they include the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, the Boca Raton Museum of Art, the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, the Morikami Museum and the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival. The reason: a satirical theatrical production called Captain Havoc & the Big-Titty Bog Witches, that was staged by a would-be grant recipient, the Tampa International Fringe Festival. You have your tax dollars being given in grants to things like the fringe festival, which is like a sexual festival where theyre doing all this stuff, DeSantis said as the rationale for cutting arts grants across the state. More: DeSantis cites 'sex stuff' as reason to pull funding for Florida arts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of those saved tax dollars went to a $100,000 state-approved study on the life cycle analysis of leaf blowers powered by an internal combustion engine or motor compared to other electric or battery-operated alternatives. The study was pushed for by lawmakers who plan to use it next year to preempt local governments from passing ordinances that would bar the use of noisy or air-polluting leaf blowers. The efforts to keep loud, gas-powered leaf blowers from going extinct in Florida are more promising than the states efforts to wipe out the ever-growing population of giant Burmese pythons in the Everglades and other South Florida wildlife areas. Oh, those pesky pythons aren't going away It is estimated that as many as 300,000 of these reclusive snakes, which can grow to nearly 20 feet long, live in South Florida. The efforts to wipe them out and keep them from spreading to the human-inhabited parts of the state are concentrated on a yearly state-sponsored hunt that pays participants for the number and size of the snakes they catch and kill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2024 Python Challenge in August was orchestrated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. A total of 857 people from 33 states and Canada competed to win cash prizes in the hunt, with the grand prize being $10,000 for the most snakes. And after a total of 10 days of those 857 hunters looking for snakes, a grand total of only 195 pythons were caught. Considering that the average clutch of eggs for one female Burmese python is 35, and that there are thousands of female pythons laying eggs there, this doesnt seem like an effective way to wipe out the snakes. Speaking of extinction, the Florida Democratic Party took some bold action this year in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid suffering more humiliating losses in the 2024 election to Republicans, who control every facet of the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Democrats zeroed in on the problem, deciding to ditch the partys traditional donkey mascot for a Florida panther. The Florida panther wont back down from a fight, Florida Democratic Party chair Nikki Fried said in May. We gave the donkey the boot. It is time to kick ass. Then the party promptly lost by historic margins, demonstrating its role as the kickee, not the kicker. There may be a lesson here: Attaching the party to an animal that narrowly avoided its own extinction by being crossbred with Texas cougars might not be a good idea. The pickleball explosion hits Florida Local pickleball players discover CityPickle. a 13-court outdoor facility open for the season in CityPlace in West Palm Beach Speaking of Florida cougars, pickleball had a big year, with both public and private courts springing up across the state. Pickleballs explosive growth is especially concentrated in Florida, reports USA Pickleball, with the state running neck-and-neck with California for the most pickleball courts. The biggest location for pickleball is the sprawling North-Central Florida retirement haven, The Villages, which leads the world in the number of courts: 253. And this year, the Villages began the process of getting its own Florida specialty license plate. It says The Villages: Where Dreams Come True. Well, its certainly true for pickleball players, at least. Florida has also been a real dream come true for Ben Sasse, whose 17-month tenure as the president of the University of Florida abruptly came to an end last summer amid disclosures of his profligate spending. More: On the public dole: Ben Sasse leaves UF presidency with multi-million-dollar parachute The former Republican U.S. Senator from Nebraska got the UF job in a secret process that crowned him as the sole finalist, even though he was largely underqualified for the job. His five-year deal at UF was reportedly worth $9.7 million, with a base salary of $1 million, a $3 million term life insurance policy, and a guaranteed full-time faculty appointment reserved for him after he stepped down. Sasse, who needed a new career after his Senate job was put in jeopardy by his vote to impeach Trump, was not shy about tapping into UFs coffers. Former University of Florida President Ben Sasse resigned from his position last month after less than two years on the job. He cited his wife's recent health challenges and epilepsy diagnosis, as well as the need to be more available for his teenage daughter, as the primary reasons why. His office spent $17.6 million during his first year at UF by handing windfall salaries to his political allies and former U.S. Senate staffers, whom he converted into UF employees and consultants working remotely in Washington, D.C. He created a previously non-existent position called the UF vice president for innovation and partnerships, and gave it to his former Senate chief of staff at an annual salary of $396,000 more than double what the staffer made in his previous government job, the universitys student newspaper, The Independent Florida Alligator, reported. Sasses travel expenses alone, $633,000, was more than 20 times what his predecessor had spent. During his brief tenure at the school, he acted as a proxy for DeSantis by firing all of UFs diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) staff, and implementing an education center devoted to fighting so-called cancel culture and uniformity of opinion on campus. Hes now spending more time with his family. As for Floridas future, the states Office of Economic and Demographic Research forecasted this year that even though deaths have been outnumbering births in the state, the net migration of people moving to the state will keep increasing by 874 new Floridians each day for the next four years. That should keep us well-stocked in Florida Men. Frank Cerabino is a news columnist with The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network - Florida. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Year in review: Florida survives with 874 new residents arriving daily MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) A Florida woman is dead after she was struck by a vehicle in Mobile on Sunday evening, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Mobile woman arrested after early Monday morning pursuit: MPD Reports said the woman, identified as 49-year-old Cynthia M. Lee of Ocoee, Florida, was killed in the crash that happened around 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 29 near Three Notch Kroner Road and Hillcrest Road. According to ALEA, she was standing in the roadway when the crash occurred. CRASH LOCATION: According to officials, Lee was struck by a 2021 Ford F-250 driven by a 53-year-old Mobile man. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities search for possible missing man near Fairhope Pier Lee was reportedly critically injured in the crash. She was taken to USA Providence Hospital in Mobile where she died of her injuries. ALEAs Highway Patrol Division is working to investigate the crash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Hundreds of Fontainebleau workers voted to ratify their new union contract, the Culinary Union announced Monday night. The contract was ratified by a 99.6% vote in favor of the contract. The resort had a neutrality agreement with the union before it opened in December 2023 which gave workers the right to decide whether to join the union. The union said it was the best contract ever that meets Las Vegas Strip standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Culinary Union posted to X welcoming the Fontainebleau workers to the union family. Its finally happened. Its a long time coming, housekeeper Zachara Lewis said in a video posted by the Union. Housekeeping is a hard department and its very hard on our bodies so its glad that we are able to get paid what we deserve. The pay matches the work. This vote comes as Culinary Union workers at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas continue to strike over a new contract. As of Monday, they have been on strike for 46 days the unions longest strike in more than two decades. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A man has been arrested for his connection with a carjacking that happened in the Food Lion parking lot on December 20, deputies said. According to the Greenville County Sheriffs Office, 53-year-old Marcellous Dondrique Clark was arrested and charged with carjacking, grand larceny, assault and battery, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Deputies said that investigators found out that Clark had approached the victim while the victim was seated in the car, assaulted him, and then stole the vehicle when leaving the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) As the nation remembers former President Jimmy Carter, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids has opened a special display in his honor. The former president died Sunday. A tribute to him was unveiled Monday inside the museums lobby. Part of a display set up for visitors to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to leave tributes for late President Jimmy Carter. (Dec. 30, 2024) The public can sign a memorial book and share their memories of the 39th president. It will be available until Carters funeral. At that point, the book will be sent to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we know about Jimmy Carter funeral plans Presidential libraries across the country will have displays for President Carter up, as well as these memory books, Mirelle Luecke, Ph.D., the museums supervisory curator, said. I think it really emphasizes the connection between presidents and really serves as a way for us at the museum and also for the American public to honor President Carters legacy. Through Jan. 5, the community is invited to sign a door from Habitat for Humanity of Kent County. It recognizes decades of service from Carter for the organization that builds, renovates and repairs houses around the world. A door from Habitat for Humanity is set up for visitors to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to leave tributes for late President Jimmy Carter. (Dec. 30, 2024) A door from Habitat for Humanity is set up for visitors to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to leave tributes for late President Jimmy Carter. (Dec. 30, 2024) I think it is certainly a strong legacy, Luecke said. It is one of being a public servant and striving to make a difference in the way they could. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A display honoring Carters life and service is also open in the museum. There, you can find pictures and campaign buttons from the 1976 election between Carter and Ford. It was a very close and contentious election, Luecke said. But when Carter was inaugurated, he said in his speech, I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land. That was really the start of this budding friendship the two of them shared. Carter, Ford forged a bond that might be hard to recognize in todays political climate While Carter was in office, he kept Ford in the loop about domestic and foreign policy issues, Luecke said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford offered advice where he could, Luecke said. The two ate lunch together whenever Ford was in Washington. It was really in their post-presidencies where their friendship grew. Luecke said Carter and Ford found they had a lot in common, sharing commitment to public service, faith and family. They saw themselves as servants to the nation, Luecke said. They both wanted to do what they could to make the country better. Former White House photographer: Carter was man of integrity Carter delivered the eulogy at Fords funeral in Grand Rapids in early 2007. They were both really working to heal the country, Luecke added. They acknowledged that while they didnt necessarily agree on all the different ways the country might be healed, they really worked together to try and bring that about. President Jimmy Carter shakes hands with former President Gerald R. Ford in the White House in Washington on May 24, 1978 during a ceremony at which a portrait of the former Chief Executive was unveiled. (AP Photo, File) Part of a display set up for visitors to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to leave tributes for late President Jimmy Carter. (Dec. 30, 2024) The presidential museum is open every Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. On Sunday, it will be open from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. It will be closed on New Years Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Dec. 30Crews began demolishing the former Bonnerup Building last week on Clark Street. Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea said in a statement this week that the building, which is about two blocks from the main hospital campus, was demolished because repairs to the building were no longer feasible. Since it acquired the building, at 525 W. Clark St., in 2010, Mayo used it primarily for staff training. It was formerly the site of Bonnerup Funeral Service, which has since relocated to 2210 E. Main St. Bonnerup donated the building to the then-Albert Lea Medical Center through the Naeve Health Care Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the contribution, former ALMC CEO Mark Ciota said the building was slated to go through one level of renovations so it would be ready to serve as a training center for staff as they converted to a new electronic medical record. Once the initial training for this record was completed, the building was slated go through more extensive remodeling to become a permanent training and education center. It was also expected to house some of the health system's departments, according to Tribune archives in 2010. The health system in recent months has been collaborating with the city of Albert Lea and the Economic Development Agency to ensure the property is suitable for redevelopment. Both the remaining lot and the large parking lot across the street at the former Albert Lea High School location, which is also owned by Mayo, are for sale. The Albert Lea City Council in October made findings that the Bonnerup Building and a house at 610 Water St. were substandard and should most likely be demolished. The findings were made as the city and ALEDA work with a developer and property owner on a project that will require the eventual creation of a redevelopment tax increment district. If the parcels are considered contributing toward the creation of the district, they could be eligible for district incentives. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday exchanged New Year greetings with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to Putin and the Russian people. Xi said that 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic relations, a new significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. In the extraordinary journey over the past 75 years, China-Russia relations have grown more mature and stable, he said. In face of the accelerated transformation unseen in a century and a volatile international landscape, China and Russia always move forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party, Xi said. Over the past year, the two heads of state held three meetings in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan, and maintained communication through phone calls, exchanges of letters, and other means, Xi said, adding that they had candid exchanges of views and reached broad consensus on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues of common concern. The political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have been advancing toward higher levels under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, he added. Practical cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible outcomes, such as the completion of the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline, and the successful launch of the China-Russia Years of Culture has fostered a closer bond connecting the two peoples through generations, Xi said. China and Russia also support each other as chairs of the BRICS mechanism and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), contributing significantly to solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, he added. Noting that 2025 marks the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period and the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, Xi said that no matter how the international landscape evolves, China remains committed to deepening comprehensive reforms, advancing Chinese modernization, and promoting global peace and development. Xi also expressed confidence that China-Russia cooperation in various fields would continue to create new opportunities for growth. The Chinese president voiced readiness to maintain close exchanges with Putin and keep China-Russia cooperation on the right course so as to continue consolidating and deepening China-Russia ties featuring permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation, injecting strong momentum into the development and modernization of the two countries, and contributing to the well-being of the two peoples and safeguarding international fairness and justice. For his part, Putin extended heartfelt New Year and Spring Festival greetings to Xi, wishing the Chinese people happiness and good health. He noted that in 2024, the two countries jointly celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 75th anniversary of their bilateral ties. Recalling his three successful meetings with Xi in 2024, Putin said that they have advanced the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era to new heights. The mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in such areas as economy, trade, energy, transportation, science, and technology is progressing in an orderly manner, and the successful launch of the Russia-China Years of Culture has created more opportunities to expand people-to-people exchanges, he said. Looking ahead to 2025, Putin said that he stands ready to maintain close communication with Xi to jointly promote the development of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, and further strengthen coordination and cooperation on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, the SCO and the G20. Such efforts, he noted, will not only fully serve the interests of the two peoples but also contribute to international and regional security and stability. On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin also exchanged New Year greetings. Li said that under the strategic guidance of Xi and Putin, the two sides have leveraged the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties to promote the sustained, healthy, and stable development of bilateral relations. China stands ready to work with Russia to take the important consensus reached by the two heads of state as a foundation for advancing China-Russia relations and cooperation in various fields to new heights, Li noted. Russia is willing to maintain constructive exchanges based on a high degree of mutual trust with China, Mishustin said, expressing his belief that the consensus reached by the two sides would help elevate bilateral cooperation. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A former South Dakota Department of Revenue employee pleaded guilty to one count of forgery and one count of grand theft by deception in Hughes County Circuit Court Monday. Downtown Brookings blaze destroys building According to the attorney generals office, Lynne Hunsley was sentenced to three years in prison suspended for the forgery charge and one year of prison suspended on the grand theft charge. Hunsley was placed on probation for three years, fined $1,000 and ordered to pay $1,200 in restitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendant has accepted responsibility for her actions and is being held accountable for violating the publics trust, Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a news release. As Attorney General, I will continue to protect taxpayer dollars and restore the publics trust in state government. Hunsley used her position with the Divison of Motor Vehicles to falsify records between Jan. 2021 and June 2021 that resulted in her not having to pay $1,000 in tax liabilities to the state. Jackley announced the charges against Hunsley in October after previously announcing charges regarding a state employee who allegedly stole more than $1.7 million from DSS and another former state employee accused of creating fake car titles. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WFLA) A former deputy has been identified as the suspect in a 1979 cold case that left a store clerk dead, the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office announced Tuesday. The victim, 25-year-old Adele Easterly, was found murdered at the Farm Store in Punta Gorda at 1:40 a.m. on Nov. 5, 1979. Suspect blasts his own finger off during Polk County shooting, police say Road Patrol Deputy John J. Greer called the homicide in after finding the woman dead at the store, located on Highway 17 and North Washington Loop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A medical examiner discovered that Easterly was shot twice with a 12-gauge shotgun once in the head and once in the back. Suspicions poured in over Deputy Greer throughout the years given earlier investigations and other strange behavior, but no substantial evidence backed up the suspicions, the sheriffs office said. On Aug. 27, 1979, Deputy Greer, who was off-duty at the time, called to report that his wife, Jackie Greer, shot herself at their Port Charlotte home. However, a lack of evidence could not prove his involvement in this incident. 6-year-old kidnapped while playing soccer in front yard in Florida, man arrested: police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September 1980, a woman who was an acquaintance of Deputy Greer was found dead in her Ford Mustang in a wooded area in Port Charlotte. Her body was too decomposed to determine a cause of death, but it was suspected she had overdosed, given empty pill bottles in the vehicle. According to officials, the woman had a legitimate-looking suicide note. However, her husband claimed that Greer had been following her around and was trying to engage in sexual relations with her while showing up at their home. Greer eventually resigned from the sheriffs office, after being suspended, in October 1980, while under investigation for unrelated activities. In 1986, a friend of Easterly came forward and disclosed that Easterly mentioned dating a Charlotte County deputy, who would visit her on night shifts and bring his gun to protect her. That gun was a double-barrel 12-gauge shotgun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the friend, when Easterly became aware that Greer was married, she tried to break off the relationship. Easterly told her friend that Greer asked his wife for a divorce, after which he claimed she threatened to shoot herself. Greer said the pair fought over the gun, it went off, and his wife was killed. Easterly then mentioned to the friend that she was afraid of the deputy. In November 1986, detectives looked into the wifes death, but couldnt determine if it was a suicide or homicide. Its criminal: Madeira Beach residents frustrated over rebuilding permit process In 2016, detectives interviewed a woman, a former sheriffs office Explorer, who claimed to have been sexually assaulted several times by Greer and that he threatened to kill her. During one assault, the deputy allegedly told the woman to ask them dead b****** like Adele Easterly what happens when they say no to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Explorer told officials that the night Easterly died, she had watched Greer walk into the sheriffs offices complex with a long gun, looking disheveled, with something on his hand that appeared to be blood. In April 2023, detectives traveled to Kingsport, Tennessee, where Greer had been living for several years. At this time, he was in an extended care facility, was bedridden, and could only give short answers. However, Greer admitted to shooting Easterly and killing his wife, although detectives could not discern whether the wifes shooting was accidental or intentional. He died a hero: Man killed by father on Christmas Eve while saving pregnant fiancee, mother says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the sheriffs office, detectives determined Greer was responsible for the womens death, but his rapid health decline meant he could never stand trial. On March 2, 2024, Greer died at the age of 77. John Greer, photographed in 1947 (Charlotte County Sheriffs Office) I have always said that we will not hide from our past, no matter how dark. This case shows that we will always seek the truth, even when we may not like what we find, Sheriff Bill Prummell said. I want to be clear that this individual does not represent the overwhelmingly great men and women who have worked for this agency over our century-plus of existence. I am angry at the scar he has left on our reputation, but I am even more upset about the people he hurt through his vile actions. My heart goes out to the victims and their loved ones. Detectives are continuing the investigation into Greer to determine if he was connected to any other violent crimes in Florida, as well as other states. As of this report, no other victims have been identified. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WFLA) A former Florida sheriffs deputy has been identified as the suspect in a 1979 cold case that left a store clerk dead, authorities announced Tuesday. The Charlotte County Sheriffs Office named former Road Patrol Deputy John J. Greer as the suspect in the death of 25-year-old Adele Easterly. Greer reported finding Easterly dead in the Farm Store in Punta Gorda, 25 miles outside of Fort Myers, in the early morning hours of Nov. 5, 1979. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A medical examiner discovered that Easterly was shot twice with a 12-gauge shotgun once in the head and once in the back. Concord woman arrested, charged with nieces murder after argument: Police Suspicions poured in over Deputy Greer throughout the years given earlier investigations and other strange behavior, but no substantial evidence backed up the suspicions, the sheriffs office explained. Months earlier, in late Aug. 1979, Deputy Greer who was off-duty at the time called to report that his wife, Jackie Greer, shot herself at their Port Charlotte home. A lack of evidence could not prove his involvement in this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A year later, in September 1980, a woman who was an acquaintance of Deputy Greer was found dead in her Ford Mustang in a wooded area in Port Charlotte. Her body was too decomposed to determine a cause of death, but it was suspected she had overdosed, given empty pill bottles in the vehicle. According to officials, the woman had a legitimate-looking suicide note. However, her husband claimed that Greer had been following her around and was trying to engage in sexual relations with her while showing up at their home. Multiple people injured by falling Lego display at Massachusetts arcade Greer eventually resigned from the sheriffs office, after being suspended, in October 1980, while under investigation for unrelated activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1986, a friend of Easterly came forward and disclosed that Easterly mentioned dating a Charlotte County deputy, who would visit her on night shifts and bring his gun to protect her. That gun was a double-barrel 12-gauge shotgun. According to the friend, when Easterly became aware that Greer was married, she tried to break off the relationship. Easterly reportedly told her friend that Greer asked his wife for a divorce, after which he claimed she threatened to shoot herself. Greer said the pair fought over the gun, it went off, and his wife was killed. Easterly then mentioned to the friend that she was afraid of the deputy. In November 1986, detectives looked into the death of Greers wife but couldnt determine if it was a suicide or homicide. In 2016, detectives interviewed a former sheriffs office Explorer, who claimed she had been sexually assaulted several times by Greer and that he threatened to kill her. During one assault, the deputy allegedly told the woman to ask them dead b like Adele Easterly what happens when they say no to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Explorer told officials that the night Easterly died, she had watched Greer walk into the sheriffs offices complex with a long gun, looking disheveled, with something on his hand that appeared to be blood. In April 2023, detectives traveled to Kingsport, Tennessee, where Greer had been living for several years. At this time, he was in an extended care facility, was bedridden, and could only give short answers. However, authorities said Greer admitted to shooting Easterly and killing his wife, although detectives could not discern whether the wifes shooting was accidental or intentional. Its not a racetrack: Charlotte area sees increase in street takeovers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the sheriffs office, detectives determined Greer was responsible for the deaths of Easterly and his wife, but his rapid health decline meant he could never stand trial. On March 2, 2024, Greer died at the age of 77. John Greer, photographed in 1947 (Charlotte County Sheriffs Office) I have always said that we will not hide from our past, no matter how dark. This case shows that we will always seek the truth, even when we may not like what we find, Sheriff Bill Prummell said. I want to be clear that this individual does not represent the overwhelmingly great men and women who have worked for this agency over our century-plus of existence. I am angry at the scar he has left on our reputation, but I am even more upset about the people he hurt through his vile actions. My heart goes out to the victims and their loved ones. After leaving the Charlotte County Sheriffs Office, authorities said Greer worked at police and sheriffs offices usually near the west coast of Florida and Detectives are continuing the investigation into Greer to determine if he was connected to any other violent crimes in Florida, as well as other states. As of this report, no other victims have been identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. As planet Earth begins its 249th circumnavigation of the Sun since Americas Revolution began, what can we say about Anno Domini 2024? Was it the high-water mark of democracy, the zenith of our historic attempt at self-government? A heroic restoration of democracy? Former Governor Jim Martin Or was it the absolute worst failure of the electorate in our history? A fascist overthrow of representative democracy? The end of a valiant ideal? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Somewhere in between? Neither the best of times nor the worst of times? It was full of promise, for many promises were made. It fulfilled an ancient curse: May you live in interesting times! Looking ahead to 2025, what should we watch for? Start with the opening of Congress, when the House struggles to choose a speaker and the Senate votes whether to preserve its filibuster rule. Senators with 4-to-6 years until their next election will likely vote to keep the filibuster as a buffer against radical lawmaking. Democrats in 2013 carved out exemptions for President Obamas cabinet appointees, but not Supreme Court nominees. Republicans remedied that oversight for Trump in 2017. What now? Another Balance of Powers test will come as the Senate considers its constitutional duty to advise and consent to President Trumps controversial cabinet appointees. Media influencers and some cable news commentators attacked most of his nominees with swift vengeance. Thats not where to look. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch whether a few moderate Republican senators show their mettle. Theyll vote with their unanimous party-line majority for those best qualified. Will they break ranks to protect us from the worst? So far, they have shown Matt Gaetz the exit gate. Itll go down as Gaetz-Gate. Once the stage is set, well see which hot issues get addressed hard and fast. Like him or not, President Trump will call the priorities. He won, remember? Expect fast action to close our borders to illegal entry. That debate ended when big city mayors couldnt figure how to send em back to Texas. Will deportations only remove criminals? What becomes of the visa program for guest workers? Next up will be budget battles. Republicans will demand spending cuts so they can lower taxes. Thats unlikely since Democrats are committed to higher taxes so they can spend more. Dont expect this to be resolved in 2025. Neither party understands compromise . . . or the burgeoning debt. Presidential confidants Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will identify a few hundred billion in what they consider waste, fraud and abuse. Unelected, they cannot control how Congress votes. Much depends on whose ox is gored. It wont be any musk ox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Will 2025 conclude Russias brutal-but-stalemated invasion of Ukraine? President Trump has proposed a treaty leaving each side to keep whatever territory it currently occupies after three years of heavy casualties on both sides. Putins surge of rockets shows his determination to intimidate Trump. How Trump responds could define his legacy and courage. The most significant political developments in 2025? Republicans will magnify their microscopic landslide victories from 2024, while Democrats convince themselves their progressive campaign wasnt radical enough. Neither will feel any need to compromise. Heres three New Years resolutions for 2025. Dont judge President Trump by what he says he will do, but by what he does. Why worry about what he says if you dont believe anything he says? Panama, Greenland and Canada can relax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spend less time clicking on those pesky but intriguing messages that pop-up on the laptop. Theyre just a media plot to feed us what we like to read so we can become less tolerant, and they can sell more ads. Finally, realizing that 2025 probably wont turn out as well as we hope, lets start thinking more seriously about whether a third major party of moderate voters can or should be organized from the grass roots up. Stay tuned. Jim Martin, a Republican, was N.C. governor from 1985-93. He is a regular contributor to our pages. Dec. 30A "proud" owner of T. Grana & Son Produce, a business that served the Niagara Falls community for more than 100 years, died on Saturday at the age of 95. In 2019 when the T. Grana & Son celebrated its 100 years in business, Julian Grana told a reporter of his life's work, "I've loved every day." Back in those days, prior to selling the business in 2021, Julie, as he was nicknamed, mostly put the fruit baskets together and he said he was enjoying it more than ever. "I love people. I talk to people about old times. Everybody who walks in I say, 'Where were you born?' and then I start. And I can't stop." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Born Sept. 23, 1929, Julian said his mother went into labor while she was selling produce at the Niagara Falls City Market. He was about 7 years old when he started helping his father, Ted Grana, with the family business. Ted started the business in 1919 with a horse and buggy. Ted was only 19 back then and his older brother, John, soon joined him to assist in the fruit and produce delivery business which they named Grana Brothers. The brothers went to the markets every morning in Buffalo to buy the freshest produce and delivered their purchases to hundreds of homes and businesses in Niagara Falls and surrounding areas. Eventually, there was a storefront at 1314 Niagara St., then a store on East Falls Street, then a two-car garage on Fort Avenue and finally, 33 years ago, the storefront at 2610 Pine Ave. Overall, it was an abundant life for Julie Grana and his wife, Annabelle, who he met when they were attending South Junior High School. They later married but had to cut their Florida honeymoon short because he was drafted during the Korean War. Their first child, Julie Ann, was born in Niagara Falls while he was serving in Germany and he missed home the whole time he was away. There were two more kids, Ted and Karen, and all of them helped out at the store as they were growing up, as did the eight grandchildren. Julie Ann Grana, a retired Niagara Falls School District teacher, said as the business grew they needed to rent storefronts and the whole family was involved. "One Christmas we were so busy we couldn't get to church on the Sunday before Christmas so the priest from our parish came and said Mass at the store." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karen Grana, who worked in the city schools as a pupil service assistant, remembers delivering the fruit baskets with her sister, Julie, saying "If you were a Grana, you were going to work." She also remembers her dad hiring people who were down on their luck, and many days when Grana employees were invited to join the family at the dinner table. The sisters attribute their work ethic to their father. "My dad is the best," Karen said. Julian Grana's visitation hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday in St. Raphael's Parish, 3840 Macklem Ave. Entombment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Former Niagara Gazette reporter Michele DeLuca was the author of 2019 story on T. Grana & Son Produce's anniversary. She spent her school years feeling like an outcast. Other girls were mean to her, and she never fit into any high school cliques. The woman identified in court as K.L. said it was a refreshing change when some exotic dancers welcomed and accepted her on her first day on the clock at Pharaohs Gentlemens Club in 2005. K.L. was among 40 witnesses, including more than a dozen former exotic dancers, who testified in the two-month federal criminal trial against club owner Peter Gerace Jr., who was found guilty last week of conspiracies to commit drug and sex trafficking, maintaining a drug-involved business at Pharaohs, and bribing a former DEA agent who was a childhood friend. The jury deliberated fewer than four full days before it rendered the verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L. testified Gerace introduced her to an exotic dancer to show her around the club. Shortly afterwards, K.L. faced a decision when the exotic dancer offered her a taste of cocaine: Does she try it for the first time, or decline and risk being ostracized by a group that didnt treat her like an outcast? The rest is history. She put it up to my nose and you sniff it, K.L. testified. I started using, and I started using it every day. She was 20 years old. K.L., now 39, testified Dec. 9 with embarrassing and traumatizing details of her experiences at the club. Her full name is being withheld because she is a victim of a sex crime. Geraces defense attorneys Mark Foti and Eric Soehnlein leaving federal court last week after resting their case. Defense attorneys told the jury in opening statements that the former exotic dancers made their own decisions and choices at Pharaohs without being coerced by Gerace or anyone else. They also focused on potential credibility problems and inconsistent testimony of some government witnesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L. said she didnt have a chance during her testimony to push back on those narratives, but she is now. The day I walked through those doors, my life was forever changed, K.L. told News 4 Investigates in an exclusive interview. Yes, it was my decision to walk through those doors, however, once you walk in, you will never be the same. Her first run at Pharaohs didnt last long. She testified her then-boyfriend and father showed up on her second night after they found out she worked at the strip club. She was on the stage dancing to California Love by Tupac. It was absolutely embarrassing, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L. returned to Pharaohs three years later, which is when her cocaine habit transformed into a cocaine and opiate addiction. She testified she complained to Gerace of a headache. He gave her Lortab, a type of pain pill. He said, Here, take this,' K.L. testified. Did you continue using them? Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Cooper said. Yes, K.L. said. Who kept providing them to you? Cooper said. Peter, K.L. said. She said Gerace did not let her dance in the club while they dated. Prosecutors said that was part of Geraces plan to gain more control over some dancers by cutting off their source of income, so they would be more dependent on him for drugs and money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was not chained up and he didnt force drugs into my body, but he might as well have, K.L. told News 4. Peter changed me. Peter ruined me. I was like a puppet, and he controlled everything I did. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Tripi (left) and Nicholas Cooper wheel out two of eight evidence cabinets used for trial against Pharaohs owner Peter Gerace Jr. K.L. said her parents warned her not to do drugs, and she listened, until I met Peter. She couldnt recall a single exotic dancer who didnt use drugs in and out of the club. Some worse than others. Cocaine was everywhere, she and others testified. Heroin wasnt too hard to find, either. She testified Gerace invited her to a room upstairs during one of her shifts. Prosecutors described the room as Geraces private sex and drug lair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L. said she had been up there before with Gerace, his friends, and other exotic dancers. They drank and partied with cocaine. In this instance, it was the first time she went upstairs with him alone. K.L. testified Gerace shared cocaine with her before turning on the television. K.L. froze on the stand when Cooper asked her what happened next in the room with Gerace. She stared blankly for close to a minute with pin-drop silence. I do recall, and it was part of me trying to not get upset and cry, and at the same time, I was struggling to speak because I felt awful that [Geraces] mom had to hear all of that, K.L. told News 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She testified Gerace put porn on the TV, and he pulled his pants down and walked towards me. K.L. turned to jurors and told them: This is really uncomfortable. We had sex. I felt like I had to, she told jurors. I felt like it was expected. K.L. also testified that she knew other exotic dancers had sex in that upstairs room with Gerace, his friends and patrons. She confirmed testimony from another former dancer, who said Gerace gave her $200 to have sex in the club with his friend. At this point, K.L.s will had been broken. Not only had K.L. become addicted to drugs, but she now engaged in sex acts because, as other dancers testified, she was at a point when she would have done almost anything to avoid withdrawal. Her drug abuse got so out of hand that she had burned a hole in her nose from constant cocaine use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The one or two pain pills she said Gerace gave her evolved into a baggy full of pills to appease her increasing tolerance and stem painful withdrawal symptoms. Her addiction worsened when she added fentanyl patches. K.L. testified Gerace exploited her by dangling pain pills while she was sick, in exchange for sex acts. She said she felt ashamed, but drugs controlled how she made decisions. In 2009, police arrested K.L. and it was the first time federal agents questioned her about Gerace and his club. She met with agents and prosecutors on several occasions ahead of her grand jury testimony in 2020. There were times when K.L. changed her testimony depending on the questions defense attorneys asked her on the stand. She told News 4 that she was allowed to answer certain questions in one of three ways: yes, no, or I dont recall. She said she couldnt provide any context to her answers and struggled to recall grand jury testimony she gave four years before Geraces trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L. said she felt relieved, but not happy, when she learned the jury convicted Gerace of the most serious crimes. She told News 4 she doesnt hold ill will toward Gerace and fought against testifying at his trial. In fact, she didnt show up the day she was scheduled to take the stand. K.L. had been concerned about her safety if she testified. Witnesses testified Gerace often bragged about his long list of contacts with law enforcement, powerful people in the community, and the Outlaws Motorcycle Club. The added her to a protective witness program, and covered some of her rent and hotel room expences. She stressed that none of the governments help had influenced her testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.L.s drug addiction continued until 2017, when she walked out of Pharaohs for the last time. She said she got clean after she left and turned her life around. K.L. said she normally does not give in to peer pressure, but Gerace and others at the club made it seem like this is what the cool people did. It was you did it or you were weird for not doing it, K.L. told News 4. After a while, he kept feeding me drugs and used my vulnerability to reel me in deeper and deeper. K.L. said she wants to provide a victim impact statement at Geraces sentencing scheduled for Aug. 15, 2025. She wants to look him in the eye, and let him and the world know how it made me feel, everything that he did to me, my family, my life. I hope if that day ever comes, that he has to sit there embarrassed and ashamed. I have made some bad choices in my life, but I truly believe if I never walked through those doors, my life would be different, she told News 4. I never would have done drugs. This person literally left me for dead, along with how many others? Latest Local News Dan Telvock is an award-winning investigative producer and reporter who has been part of the News 4 team since 2018. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) People across Tennessee continue to feel former President Jimmy Carters impact on the Volunteer State. Before Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, came to Nashville in 2019 to build homes with Habitat for Humanity, Tara Morgan remembers struggling to find a place to live. I just remembered being so discouragedI was like, Why isnt it possible for me to find a two-bedroom that I can afford for me and my daughter? Morgan recalled. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Now, she and 20 other Nashville families are homeowners thanks to the Carter Project and Habitat for Humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a game changer. This home changed my life, she said. Morgan remembered meeting the former president and first lady at Ryman Auditorium during the project five years ago. She described Carter as humble and a prime example of what it means to be a servant leader. He was 94 when he came to help build my house, so that in itself is inspiring and I hope that everybodyeven though hes gonethat everybody can still be inspired by him because I know that I am, she said. Tennesseans share memories of former President Jimmy Carter Former U.S. Attorney Hal Hardin, who was appointed by Carter, said he was quite a fella, someone who could be a hero; and describes him as brilliant, loyal, and hardworking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant be a perfect president. Were human beings, but he was pretty darn close in my opinion, Hardin told News 2. Hardin remembered one interaction with Carter in particular, which inspired the book Coup where Hardin had to make the difficult decision of ousting a governor during a pardons-for-sale scandal. I said, I always wondered why you didnt fire me for doing that and he said, Well I had a little problem going on in the Middle East and that problem was a little bit bigger than what you had with this governor, Hardin remembered. Hardin told News 2 that Carter later sent him a letter commending Hardin for doing the right thing after reading the book. Hardin keeps several handwritten notes, memorabilia, and photos with the former president and first lady hanging on his wall. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com He said he thinks of Carter as someone future generations can emulate and admire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) As the nation mourns the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at age 100, one South Carolina woman is reflecting on his service and the role he played in shaping her political journey. Mandy Powers Norrell is an attorney who previously served in the South Carolina House of Representatives and ran a campaign for Lieutenant Governor in 2018. She shared some of her personal stories about Carter stories that go back to her childhood. In Photos: Jimmy Carter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Norrell recalled the time she wrote a letter to Carter when she was just 7 years old, asking him to campaign in Lancaster, South Carolina, and even offered him a place to stay in her familys home. I told him that I got permission from my parents that he could stay at our house, she said while retelling her memory. She remembered reading former First Lady Rosalynn Carters biography at age 10, and how years later, her father worked first-hand with the former president on an affordable housing project in New York City. Her dad brought back a coveted autograph from the president himself. I wrote to him again to thank him and point out that he could run again for president, she said on X. He wrote back to thank me and tell me that he wasnt planning to do that but he appreciated my faith in him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, as an adult, Norrell had her encounters with Carter, even traveling to the former presidents native Plains, Georgia to attend his Sunday School classes, and said she cried throughout the lesson. Photo courtesy Mandy Powers Norrell Her sentiments are indicative of how the former president is being remembered around the world today as a humanitarian who valued his faith, and family, and led with kindness. She also credits his humility, eagerness to serve, and no-frills approach to life as something she hopes will inspire a younger generation. I swear, nothing gets me emotional but President Carter and his service, always get to me, and I think its because of the authenticity that he had and just the goodness of service, she said. There are a lot of people who I have encountered in politics, who they talk a really good game, but you find out what their baseline is maybe when they are out of politics, or when they are really challenged and I mean that is how you find out the true measure of anybody and after President Carter lost his re-election, we got to see him just live his life in humility and service and love to his fellow man. That was just the model, I think, for everyone in politics. Political world offers condolences for Jimmy Carter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Norrell shared that President Carter is the reason why she went on to have a career in public service and said she will miss his presence on this earth. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. David MacHauer, second from right, and his fellow crew members of the Miss Bea Havin, a B-17G bomber of the 487th Bomb Group, U.S. 8th Air Force, that was shot down over Belgium on Christmas Eve, 1944. Back row from left: Howard A. Turnquist (pilot), 2nd Lt Thomas C. Chatterton (copilot), Parker (navigator), 2nd Lt Richard E. Ceder (bombardier). Bottom from left: T/Sgt. Warren J. Stanton (flight engineer), S/Sgt. Stanley Kleinman (radio operator), S/Sgt. Neil F. Matz (gunner), Cpl. Robert E. Sellers (gunner), Sgt. David H. MacHauer (ball turret gunner), S/Sgt Jefferson G. Gregory (gunner). (Photo courtesy of Cheryl MacHauer Schexnayder) Christmas Eve, 1944, behind enemy lines near the Germany-Belgium border at an altitude of about 25,000 feet, 20-year-old Loyola New Orleans law student David MacHauer was manning two machine guns from the belly of a B-17 bomber nicknamed the Miss Bea Havin. An anxious voice cackled through the intercom: Company front of 30 to 30 coming in at the tail! MacHauer rotated his gun turret toward the tail of his airplane and saw a large formation of fighter planes quickly approaching. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a fleeting second, he thought perhaps they could be friendly aircraft. At this point in World War II, the B-17 heavy bombers would typically fly in large groups under the protection of smaller, nimbler fighter planes that would escort them from a base in England to their targets in Germany to engage any enemy aircraft that approached. The lumbering B-17s had machine guns mounted on all sides that could, at least in theory, defend against almost any angle of attack from enemy planes. But in practice, they were often at a disadvantage to German fighters that had much greater speed and bigger guns, so the best defense for the American B-17 was to have its own American fighter flying alongside it. This would have been the case on Dec. 24, 1944, however, a thick layer of fog on the ground in England delayed the U.S. fighter group that was supposed to escort the bombers. For this reason, MacHauer thought the planes he saw in the distance were the tardy escort fighters until the first flash of their cannons dispelled that hope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MacHauer trained his gun sight on the enemy planes and fired back until he suddenly felt a shock, according to an entry in his war-time diary. This moment was the culmination of a series of decisions he had made just hours earlier some would later call fate or luck. Or, as one newspaper described, a Series of Fantastic Ifs. MacHauer manned the ball turret gunner position on the aircraft. This position required that he wedge himself into a spherical plexiglass dome that hung from the belly of the aircraft with twin .50-caliber machine guns protruding through the dome. He would enter through a small hatch and sit in the fetal position with hand and foot controls to spin the turret in almost any direction and fire like a large pan and tilt camera that shot bullets instead of photos. With a diameter of only 3.5 feet, the ball turret was a very cramped space cut off from the rest of the airplane and crew with no room for a chest-worn parachute, which all the other crew members wore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ball turret gunner typically had to leave his parachute in the cabin of the plane and hope his buddies could pull him back into the cabin and help get his chute on if they needed to escape the bomber. But to bail out with no assistance from someone in the aircraft and assuming the hydraulics still worked, the ball turret gunner would have to spin the turret to position its hatch inside the airplane cabin, open the hatch, disconnect his flight suit heating system and oxygen system, unclip himself from a safety strap, climb inside the plane, retrieve the parachute hopefully still where he left it connect it to his flight harness with two fasteners, and then bail out through an exit door. All this had to take place in an airplane falling to earth, likely on fire. Three key changes For about a week prior to the Christmas Eve mission, MacHauer and the U.S. 8th Air Force were grounded, unable to fly due to poor weather. Germanys Adolf Hitler took advantage of this and launched his last great counteroffensive of the war, the Battle of the Bulge, pushing the Allies back from Germanys border and trapping an entire division of American paratroopers numbering around 14,000, near Bastogne, Belgium. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of MacHauers crew mates, waist gunner Neil F. Matz, described a feeling of anxiousness among the airmen at that time because they were hearing daily reports of heavy losses among the Allied ground troops and were unable to assist. Finally, the weather had cleared enough by the morning of Dec. 24 that MacHauers unit, the 487th Bomb Group, received orders to bomb an enemy airfield near Frankfurt, Germany. This would be his 17th mission. Before taking off, he made three changes to his flight gear. A framed photo of a B-17 bomber unit with David MacHauer, holding gun on the left. (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) First, he traded in his standard issue chest-worn parachute for a back-pack parachute. He wrote in his diary that he was experimenting just to see if he could squeeze into the ball turret with a parachute on his back. He could. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, on all previous missions, he had kept his .45-caliber pistol unloaded with the magazine of bullets tucked away in a pocket because he felt it was an unwise thing to fly with a loaded gun. But for this mission, he loaded the pistol. Third, when a passerby from a separate bomber crew offered his chest holster to whoever wanted it, MacHauer accepted it. He had always carried his pistol in a waist holster, but for this mission, he decided to try out the new holster, which put his loaded pistol directly over his heart. These pre-flight changes, some more thought-out than others, would work in harmony that day to save MacHauers life. Any one of them removed would have made the others meaningless, resulting in certain death. The sudden shock he felt as the German planes attacked his squadron came from several 20 mm exploding shells that crippled the Miss Bea Havin, sending a molten fragment through the ball turret, then through MacHauers left boot, striking him directly in the chest and delivering what he would later describe as a terrific blow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not yet dead, he thought he was badly hit and tried to communicate through the intercom, but it was no longer working. He positioned the turret with its guns pointing straight down, opened the hatch and tried calling for help. He could only see one person, the radio operator, who signaled to him with a hopeless gesture. In his written accounts, MacHauer never really specified what that gesture was, but signs of doom were everywhere. The plane was in rapid descent; fire engulfed the entire right side of the aircraft. Later, it would come to light that the co-pilot, Thomas Chatterton of Oregon, was mortally wounded. Knowing he wouldnt live, Chatterton gripped the flight controls with whatever strength he had left and kept the airplane from spinning wildly, hoping it would give the rest of the crew a chance to bail out, according to a written account from Matz, the waist gunner. Without assistance to get out of the turret, MacHauer closed the hatch and repositioned the turret with the hatch facing away from the plane to allow himself to simply fall out into the blue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when he tried this, something caught him the safety strap. He had forgotten to untether himself. After enough pushing and pulling he got it unfastened, but then he faced a new obstacle. The plane was on fire and falling, and flames were blocking his escape. The ground was coming up quickly. It was either risk the flames or meet certain death. He pushed himself through the hatch. MacHauer felt his face burning as he passed through the flames and fell away from the aircraft. He immediately pulled the ripcord on his parachute and watched it blossom. I was soon floating comfortably down to earth, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is where another chance circumstance came into play. The bombers had faced a pretty strong headwind as they crossed into enemy territory near the border. A tailwind could have nudged MacHauer into German territory, where he would likely be taken prisoner, but that headwind assisted him in floating westward across Allied lines. He landed in an open field where two American trucks soon pulled up. The soldiers on the ground that day watched the air battle unfold and the bombers get shot down. They saw several parachutes open and sent vehicles to track them down before the Germans could do the same. The mangled .45-caliber pistol that saved David MacHauers life by deflecting a German shell fragment from penetrating his heart during an air battle in the skies above Belgium on Christmas Eve 1944. (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) They drove MacHauer to a field hospital in Liege, Belgium, to have his injuries treated. When he removed his flight jacket, a piece of metal fell to the floor with a clang. Thats when he first noticed his .45-caliber pistol, still holstered directly over his heart, had a large indentation in the steel grip where he had earlier inserted that fully loaded magazine of bullets. If he hadnt loaded his gun that morning, the shrapnel would have torn through the hollow pistol grip and killed him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was also a large tear in his boot and about a 3-inch hole in his flight jacket. It soon became clear what had happened. The German 20 mm fragment went through his boot and somehow missed his foot. After tearing through his flight jacket, it struck him flush over the heart where it bounced off the loaded grip of the pistol and then exited through the shoulder of his jacket, leaving a scratch on his left shoulder. When considering the way he had to sit in the ball turret, the trajectory of the fragment indicates that MacHauer and the enemy fighter were likely facing each other. After getting an X-ray and undergoing interrogation, which was a normal process for documenting such events, MacHauer was released that night and taken to another unit on the outskirts of Liege, where he ate a warm meal and went to bed. The following day was Christmas. He caught a ride on a cargo plane back to England that night. What a way to spend Christmas, but we were thankful we were able to spend it at all, he wrote. The following day, MacHauer was glad to see a few guys from other downed bombers in his squadron had returned, but it also made him wonder about his own crew mates. Before turning in for the night, he recorded an entry in his diary that he cut short in a manner that so remarkably depicted a quiet consciousness to which he was unwilling to yield his pen. I feel like a ghost without my crew. All my friends Word of the incident, which MacHauer called his close shave, travelled quickly to war correspondents in Europe, who pushed it through the wires back home. Those early press reports contain a few inaccuracies. The MacHauer surname, being an unusual one, was prone to misspellings. David MacHauers mangled pistol and war medals on display alongside newspaper articles of his brush with death in a Dec. 24, 1944, air battle during World War II. (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) They also initially reported him as the lone survivor because he was the only one who had returned at that point. But over the next several days, Matz and two others trickled in. The remaining four crew members had either perished or were missing in action. Although he received a Purple Heart medal, MacHauer had to fly 16 more missions before the Army sent him home to New Orleans in 1945. As remarkable as the events of that Christmas Eve were for MacHauer, his greatest act of courage was yet to come. His most courageous act Straight news journalists almost never break from the third-person perspective of storytelling, so I ask our readers to allow me this rare exception. David MacHauer was my grandfather. He died in 1972 before I was born and while most of his four children were still relatively young. My mom was just a teenager at that time. My grandfathers World War II story was part of what compelled me to join the military. It is well known on my mothers side of the family and was required learning for all of us growing up, though in considerably less detail. The instruction came from my grandmother, Muriel Bonie MacHauer, a former math teacher who turned 100 in August. She also made sure we knew he became a Louisiana state senator and a city traffic court judge in New Orleans. My mom and uncles could recount some anecdotes from memory. He was stoic, faithful, assured and a stern disciplinarian at home and in the courtroom, according to their accounts. That was about the extent of what I and the other grandchildren knew about him. I had always assumed my grandfather had shaped the politically conservative views of our family. He was a registered Democrat, but party affiliation back then was not the same as it is today. When I began reporting for the Illuminator at the Louisiana State Capitol, I would often stop to look at his photo that still hangs in the ground floor hallway of the Senate chamber (near the Hainkel Room). It recently occurred to me how little I knew of his political career, which was during some of our nations most tumultuous times. With this Christmas Eve marking the 80th anniversary of my grandfathers scrape with death, I set out about a month ago to do some research, mostly through digitized newspaper archives and some diaries and letters my grandmother gave to me a few years ago. What I discovered was, at least for me, quite shocking. After finishing law school in 1946 and practicing law for a few years, MacHauer was elected to the Louisiana Senate in 1952. Just two years into his political career, he became embroiled in a political firestorm when the U.S. Supreme Court issued its landmark 1954 ruling in Brown v. Board of Education that said racial segregation in public schools was illegal. In immediate response, the all-white Louisiana Legislature began drafting a law to defy federal authority and engrave racial segregation into the Louisiana Constitution. The many news articles I found on this situation indicate my grandfather was the only senator, and perhaps the only lawmaker, to publicly oppose the legislation on the grounds that racial segregation was discriminatory and immoral. I cant vote to sustain a principle that has long been immoral and I now feel is illegal, he told his colleagues at the time, according to an Associated Press report from July 6, 1954. Just to be clear, there was one other senator and a handful of House members who voted against the bill, but they did not cite any beliefs in racial equality or acknowledge the immorality of segregation, according to news reports from that time. Rather, they questioned the legality of defying the U.S. Supreme Court or argued that more time should be spent trying to reach a compromise. Some called it a waste of taxpayer money. I dont agree with what the court did, but we wont get anywhere by defying them, Sen. Laurance Eustis of New Orleans said, according to the same report. But my grandfather wasnt entirely alone in his stance. An Aug. 4, 1954, letter to the Times-Picayune from Prince A. Taylor Jr., who was the editor of a Christian publication, pointed to MacHauers statement from the month before and called it the one bright spot in the action of the state Senate. Despite my grave disappointment, I take hope in the courage and conviction of this one man, Taylor wrote. Even after it was clear his vote against the segregation bill would not affect its outcome, MacHauer still didnt waver on the issue and remained firm in what was an obviously lonely position in the Legislature, according to follow-up reporting in the Times-Picayune on Oct. 29, 1954. He reiterated his opposition to segregation, saying it is wrong to relegate people to second-class citizenship. Some who supported the segregation bill claimed to have no strong feelings about it and called it a states rights issue, saying the people of Louisiana should get to decide on the matter. If there were any doubt that racism was the driving force behind the bill, one need look no further than the last sentence of the Oct. 29 article, which quotes Sen. Gove Davis Sr. of Olla, who supported segregation and warned his colleagues against mixing races. Just look at your Bible if you dont believe me, Davis told fellow senators. Once you intermingle the races, within not too many years, the dark race will be obliterated. The white blood shall predominate. The 1954 Louisiana Legislature ultimately passed the segregation proposal, which then received overwhelming approval from Louisiana voters. Despite subsequent federal court rulings, it would be several more years before segregation ended in Louisiana schools. My grandfathers position was deeply unpopular at the time. Although lawmakers did not call him out directly by name, which legislative decorum rules would have prohibited, some suggested he was a communist sympathizer. Prominent politicians across the state branded him and other opponents traitors to the South and said they were selling out the white children of Louisiana. Some of the more vicious attacks came from Leander Perez, a prominent Democratic Party boss and district judge at that time. Perez was later venerated with a public park, statue, and a major thoroughfare in St. Bernard Parish bearing his name. My grandfathers legislative career ended with his first term. In 1956, he went to work as an assistant city attorney for New Orleans until 1960, during which time he made headlines for prosecuting associates of mafia boss Carlos Marcello. He was then elected city traffic court judge, an office he held for 10 years before illness forced him to retire. A history once lost to time According to his political track record and statements he made to the press, my grandfather held many views that, even by todays standards, would be considered liberal or even progressive. He believed in government transparency, sponsoring legislation that would have allowed grand juries to publicly disclose their findings on corruption investigations into public officials. He supported criminal justice reforms, passing laws that lowered sentencing for nonviolent narcotics violations and eased mandatory penalties for certain drunk driving offenses. He was a loyal supporter of labor unions and opposed a so-called Right to Work bill that corporations and employers used to weaken union membership in Louisiana. He also supported legislation that would have established citizen ballot measures in Louisiana, allowing citizens to petition for a new law or constitutional amendment. Later, as a judge, MacHauer lobbied for state financing of political campaigns as a means to reduce corruption and the influence of wealthy special interest groups. If the men you send into office are already bought in advance, youre never going to obtain the upright, progressive, creative legislation you need, he said, as quoted in an AP report from June 20, 1969. This undated photo of David MacHauer taken after the war during a family vacation. (Courtesy of Cheryl MacHauer) When I shared these findings last week with my uncle, Vernon MacHauer, he was also surprised. He wasnt aware of his dads stance against segregation in 1954 but said it does fit with some things he remembers growing up. He was definitely a man of principle, Vernon said. He recounted an incident in which his older brother, who would have been about 8 or 9 at the time, had drawn a Swastika in a notebook, not understanding what it meant. When their father saw it, he flew into a rage and took his brother to a separate room for discipline, Vernon said. The family was constantly turning away lavish gifts that people would try to deliver to their house, and refusing them would often lead to threatening phone calls, Vernon said. My mom, Cheryl, corroborated this and said her dads unwillingness to accept bribes angered a lot of people. So, on the occasion their dad spoke about politics, it was often with aversion for the corruption he saw, Vernon said. Its easy to look fondly upon the past as if it were a simpler time vacant of the complicated problems of modernity. Its also easy to elevate the legacy of a deceased relative. But its just as easy to lose an otherwise accurate legacy to time. Im sure there were incidents in which my grandfather erred or committed transgressions, and he may have held some opinions that would be considered offensive. But why or how we overlooked his political record is a mystery to me, and with the Christmas Eve anniversary and 2024 coming to a close, perhaps we can remember David MacHauer for his unwavering courage in the face of overwhelming adversity both in 1944 and 1954. Although Ive had his wartime diaries for years and have read them several times, last week I noticed for the first time a small inscription at the bottom of the page on which he began his entry for Dec. 24, 1944, the day his plane was shot down. The inscription states: Equal rights for all, special privileges for none. Like the SC Daily Gazette, Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com. A former national security adviser to Donald Trump has finally acknowledged the existence of climate change, unlike his former boss, to justify a takeover of Greenland, as threatened by the president-elect. Robert OBrien appeared on Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News, suggesting that the U.S. could limit its use of the Panama Canal as the climate gets warmer and turn instead to opening waterways in the Arctic along Greenland. Greenland is a highway from the Arctic all the way to North America, to the United States, OBrien said. Its strategically very important to the Arctic, which is going to be the critical battleground of the future because as the climate gets warmer, the Arctic is going to be a pathway that maybe cuts down on the usage of the Panama Canal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: The Russians and the Chinese are all over the Arctic. Now the Danes ... own Greenland. And theyve got an obligation to defend Greenland, and so President Trump said If you dont defend Greenland, well buy it and well defend it, but were not going to defend it for free and let you not develop Greenland and not extract the minerals and oil and resources of Greenland. OBrien went on to say that Denmark is on the frontlines of the war against Russia and China. Theyre like the Baltic states, theyre like Poland because of their vast territory in Greenland, he argued. And so theyve got to defend Greenland, and if they cant defend it, were going to have to, and were not gonna do it for free. In the weeks after winning the election, Trump has suggested making Canada the 51st U.S. state and he has said he is prepared to take over the Panama Canal. Robert O'Brien speaks last year at the Concordia Annual Summit at Sheraton New York in New York City. He has suggested that Greenland is becoming more important as the climate gets warmer (Getty Images for Concordia Summi) Trump has also threatened Americas closest neighbors with trade wars, and to take over Greenland, which has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for 600 years. Trump claimed American ownership of Greenland was an absolute necessity for world security and freedom.. This threats come despite Trumps vow to end foreign wars and despite that he made peace through strength a central part of his campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But his threat is unlikely to lead to any major changes as leader after leader of the areas in question has staunchly rejected Trumps advances. Jose Raul Mulino, the president of Panama, shot back: Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent zone belongs to Panama and will remain so. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mute Egede said, Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- China's central bank said Tuesday that it would conduct the second operation of the Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF) soon, which aims to support the healthy development of the country's capital market. The second SFISF operation will have a swap term of one year, with the possibility of extension under certain conditions, according to a statement on the People's Bank of China website. The central bank set up the SFISF in October. The tool allows eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets, including bonds, stock ETFs, and holdings in constituents of the CSI 300 Index, as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as treasury bonds and central bank bills. Also in October, China conducted the first operation of the SFISF, with a scale of 50 billion yuan (about 6.96 billion U.S. dollars), involving 20 securities and fund companies in the bidding process, the China Securities Regulatory Commission said Tuesday in a separate statement. The commission has expanded the participant pool to 40 by adding 20 more eligible institutions. During each batch of operations, approximately 20 institutions will be chosen based on their intended scale of participation to engage in the bidding. These institutions should fully leverage their professional investment capabilities and strengthen compliance and risk control management to promote the stable and healthy development of the capital market, the commission said. Dec. 30CAMBRIA Tyler Booth, the executive director of the Forsyth-Warren Tavern Living History Farm and Museum, said a meeting this past week has cleared the path to opening the facility. Booth said that at the meeting with the New York State Department of State Buffalo Board of Review on Dec. 18 he was validated with a ruling that his property is safe for occupancy. Of the four points brought up during the meeting interior work that Booth characterized as forcing him to put up drywall, as well as some work on a railing to the second floor, unhistoric signage for exits, unneeded fire alarms within the building, mandatory blacktopped parking and ADA accessibility issues two were declared moot by the board and the other two were determined in Booth's favor, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They threw out the order to remedy by putting up drywall and declared it safe for occupancy," Booth said. Viewed on a digital recording of the meeting, Building Inspector Matthew Cooper told the board that a handrail on the second floor was not properly secured, but that it had been attended to. Cooper also said that whether Booth had done the work for ADA accessibility to the museum, he would leave that up to the board. Booth explained that he'd put $14,000 into ADA accessibility of his own money and the museum also put in grant funding. Booth went on to say that while, technically, there was still some work to be done, the review board allowed the use of brick instead of concrete or blacktop on the driveway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There was a brick path, but we're waiting for UB to do a landscaping survey to show what that looks like," he said. In the end, Booth said he'd be opening by March and tours would commence. Any cease and desist notices from the town will be ignored, he continued, and if the town wants to go to court, he'd be happy to defend his rights. According to the Department of State, a formal written determination will be forthcoming in a matter of weeks. "The final decision and findings by the board needs to be in writing," said a representative of the NYS Department of State press office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambria Supervisor Don MacSwan and Building Inspector Matthew Cooper could not be reached for comment. More information on events and tours at the Forsyth-Warren Tavern Living History Farm and Museum will be forthcoming on the website at https://www.forsythtavern.com, Booth said. Four people have expressed interest in running for Calumet Township Trustee so far to replace former Trustee Kim Robinson, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud in federal court last week. Gary Council President Tai Adkins, D-4th; Gary councilman Darren Washington, D-at large; Calumet Township Office Human Resources Manager Sherita Smith; and Gary Carter have all reached out to Lake County Democratic Party Chairman Jim Wieser to express their interest in running for the position, he said. Washington released a statement Tuesday announcing his candidacy for Calumet Township Trustee. If elected, Washington said he would oversee a forensic audit to ensure questionable financial expenditures and practices come to an end, hire a managerial workforce and not require employees to give money toward any political activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are witnessing a revolving door of empty promises while the very foundation of our governments integrity is being eroded, Washington said in the statement. My duty is clear: to protect the greatest investment our citizens have their tax dollars. Two years ago, Washington said he and the Calumet Township Board questioned Robinson on the spending she outlined in the townships annual financial report, including funds for an apartment. The disappointment we all feel at this moment is palpable. When an elected official, entrusted with the sacred duty of serving with integrity, falls short, the consequences are felt throughout our community, Washington said. Smith said she has been with the trustees office for 10 years, eight years of which she served as chief of staff. If elected, Smith said she would continue the offices food pantry program with plans to expand the food options the school uniform program and energy assistance program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would like to continue to do the great work that weve been doing, especially in these last 10 years. I believe I am the best candidate for the position, Smith said. Adkins didnt respond to a request for comment. Carter couldnt be reached for comment. To file, a candidate would have to submit a declaration of candidacy and a statement of economic interest, standard state forms, Wieser said. As the deadline to apply, Jan. 13, approaches, Wieser said he anticipates more people will file applications for the position. The notice for the caucus, which was posted Dec. 30, states it will be held at 6 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Calumet Township Multipurpose Center, 1900 W. 41st Avenue in Gary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If an elected official were voted in as the next trustee, Wieser said another caucus would held to fill the vacancy. Wieser said hed like the next Calumet Township trustee to be someone committed to public service with a financial background. First and foremost, you want someone who wants to serve the community. Wieser said. Calumet Township Chief Dayna Bennett was sworn in Dec. 23 the day Robinson entered her guilty plea to serve as trustee until the caucus, said administrative assistant Sandi Cogan. Robinson pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Hammond to one count of wire fraud, which can carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, when federal prosecutors alleged she used $11,200 in township funds to pay her Gary rent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the deal, she resigned on Dec. 20. If a judge accepts the plea deal, Robinson will serve one year of probation, have to repay $11,200, plus an $8,700 fine. She posted a $20,000 unsecured bond. In a statement she provided to the Post-Tribune ahead of her court hearing, Robinson expressed her deepest gratitude to each and every one of her constituents for the trust and support theyd extended to her while she was in office. She didnt give a reason for her resignation but said it was important to issue a statement as people may begin to hear information related to it. As I step away from this role, I remain hopeful for our townships future. I am leaving the Townships operating fund in the black with cash reserves of over $2 million in a rainy-day fund. Additionally, I have every confidence in the leadership that will follow me, and I wholeheartedly support the process of selecting a new trustee who will continue our mission of progress and community service, Robinson said in the statement. Robinson becomes the third consecutive Calumet Township Trustee to face federal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinson was elected in 2014 after defeating incumbent Trustee Mary Elgin in the primary amid the shadow of an FBI and IRS probe of the office. She previously served as a former Gary City Probation officer, Gary Councilwoman for the citys 5th District from 2008 to 2014, and the Lake County treasurers office. In December 2014, Elgin along with her son, Steven Hunter, and former Calumet Township employees Ethel Shelton and Alex Wheeler were indicted, with prosecutors alleging the four used township employees and offices to run political campaigns and raise money for Elgins fundraisers. Elgin was sentenced in 2018 to a year and a day in prison, followed by one year of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution to the trustees office and $6,311 to the IRS. In 2007, Dozier Allen, who served as trustee for 32 years, was indicted five years after he lost to Elgin on charges that he and three employees steered $120,000 of grant money meant for the township to themselves. A jury found him guilty in April 2009, and he was sentenced to 18 months in prison. akukulka@chicagotribune.com On Sunday, President Joe Biden said that Donald Trump could take a lesson in decency from the late President Jimmy Carter. Cue the outrage on Fox News. On Mondays broadcast of Outnumbered, network contributor Tammy Bruce reacted by calling Biden a jerk and his comment embarrassing. The previous day, Biden had said: Can you imagine Jimmy Carter walking by someone who needed something and just keep walking? Can you imagine Jimmy Carter referring to someone by the way they look or the way they talk? I cant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And when asked by a reporter about what Trump could emulate from Carter, Biden said three times: Decency. Decency. Decency. But to Bruce, Bidens comment itself was apparently indecent. Its a shame, and its embarrassing for Joe Biden. He had that gritted teeth thing that he does, she huffed. Ive said before on this program and other placesand we know for 50 yearsJoe Biden has been a jerk. So perhaps he should take some of his own advice with whats happened to this country." It was an opportunity, as President Trump, I think, illustrated, to be generous, right? The American people have made their decision. Were all Americans. Were moving forward. We will disagree politically and philosophically, she continued, referring to Trumps suddenly cordial statement about Carter only after he had died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its just a remarkable and a shameful thing to watch. But it is classic Biden, Bruce insisted. This is what weve been seeing, and its partly what the American people dont like. You might not agree with Trumps style, she continued. But Biden is presented as being the unifier and the nice guy. You know, Scranton Joe. And hes mean and hes a bully. And its a shame and its embarrassing and its unfortunate. PARIS (Reuters) - France carried out missile strikes last weekend in Syria, targeting Islamic State sites in the country, French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Tuesday. "On Sunday, French air forces carried out targeted strikes against Islamic State sites based on Syrian territory," Lecornu wrote on social media platform X. The French airstrike followed a similar military strike by the United States in Syria, which the U.S. said had killed two Islamic State operatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syria faces an uncertain political future after the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group ousted former President Bashar al-Assad on Dec. 8. The lightning campaign led by HTS ended a 13-year civil war, but it has left a host of questions about the future of a multi-ethnic country where foreign states including Turkey and Russia have strong and potentially competing interests. (Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta; Editing by Sharon Singleton) Just two months after announcing that free tutoring for struggling students would continue in 2025, the Arizona Department of Education has abruptly shut down the program. Sorry kids, but the moneys run dry. Two-thirds of the states fourth graders arent proficient in reading and math, according to the latest scores from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Roughly three-quarters of the states eighth graders arent up to par. Advertisement Advertisement But sorry kids, the federally funded Achievement Tutoring Program is tapped out. Of course, the Arizona Legislature could fix it. That is, if our leaders actually took an interest in the public schools that most Arizona children attend something beyond what bathrooms should be used and what books should be banned. Me? Im not holding my breath. Tutoring program was rocketing students ahead More than 30,400 students got help from a successful tutoring program, state education superintendent Tom Horne said. State Superintendent Tom Horne launched the tutoring program in November 2023, diverting $40 million in federal pandemic relief money from organizations such as the Valley of the Sun YMCA and the Boys & Girls Clubs. The idea was to provide free tutoring to public and charter school students who test below grade level in reading, writing or math. More than 30,400 students got help through the program over the last year. Advertisement Advertisement And it was working, according to Horne. In October, while announcing the program would continue at least through the end of the school year, Horne said 22% of students who were tutored for just six weeks made at least a half-years worth of academic growth. But the program quickly burned through its remaining $11 million in funding, thanks to a new federal requirement that the money go only to private tutors cutting out the public schools that previously could participate. The program was designed to continue until all allocated funds were utilized, and we have now reached that point, the department said on Dec. 19, just two months after saying it would continue in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement All of a sudden, we were burning a lot more than we realized, Horne told reporters last week. Lawmakers should fund what works in schools Of course, the tutoring program doesnt have to end. That is, if the Legislature took a break from attacking the public schools and instead looked for ways to improve the public schools. Horne says his program helped one of every five struggling children advance their academic skills by a half a year or more. In just six weeks. Thats astounding. Opinion: How we grew our school from a low 'C' to nearly an 'A' Just think if such tutoring was more readily available to kids who sorely need that boost and at the public schools where it could more cheaply be provided? Advertisement Advertisement Just think if our leaders took a break from trying to get students out of the public schools and instead looked for opportunities to help them get a good education in the public schools? A half a years academic progress in just six weeks? This is a program that should be replicated not terminated. And, as it happens, the state will have a $660 million budget surplus when the Legislature returns next month. Where better to spend some of that than on our children? Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @LaurieRobertsaz, on Threads at @LaurieRobertsaz and on BlueSky at @laurieroberts.bsky.social. Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe to azcentral.com today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Tutoring program works. Arizona must extend it, not kill it | Opinion (NewsNation) Immigrants who are entering the United States illegally in Texas face a new challenge as winter settles into open desert spaces that many of the new arrivals encounter once they cross the border. Temperatures in the desert are soon expected to drop below freezing in the nighttime hours, creating risks for migrants as they enter the U.S. However, concerns over coping with the cold also affect border agents and local law enforcement working the desert in Texas and New Mexico who are tasked with apprehending the illegal migrants. U.S. Border Patrol officials in El Paso have issued warnings not only about freezing temperatures but also about the hazardous conditions migrants face once in the open desert. Once immigrants cross the U.S.-Mexico border into Terrell County, Texas, they face a minimum of 20 miles that they need to traverse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migrant crisis added to record-level US homelessness: HUD Terrell County Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland told NewsNation that 43 people have died over the past four years. He said that local officers still need to recover the bodies of six people who have likely died after trying to cross into the U.S. Others who have survived have resorted to nature to find help. One migrant used dead cactus stocks to spell out the word help which was seen by a local rancher who then alerted law enforcement. Earlier this year, Cleveland found an 18-year-old man who was left behind by a group of other immigrants and who likely could have died in the cold conditions had he not been found by law enforcement. However, such calls for help are often used to distract border agents from going after groups of immigrants who have crossed into the country illegally, Cleveland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a common tactic that we see not just here but across the border in its entirety, Cleveland told NewsNation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. MANSFIELD, Ohio (WJW) Authorities in Richland County said a suspect killed last month during a shootout with police in Stark County has now been linked through DNA analysis to the 1981 murder of an 18-year-old woman in Mansfield. Over the last 43 years, the slaying of Debra Miller deeply troubled longtime Mansfield residents and police officers. It was on April 29, 1981, that Miller was found beaten to death in her apartment on West 3rd Street. I-Team: Blocking Browns move, city intends to enforce Modell Law Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that time, police could not identify a suspect in the slaying, but DNA samples and other evidence gathered at the scene were carefully preserved. Investigators said the evidence kept in storage for the past four decades showed the level of brutality unleashed by Millers killer and how desperately she fought for her life. We were looking at things that the victim was bound up with. We were looking at bodily fluids, including the blood that was found there, Richland County Assistant Prosecutor Chris Brown told reporters during a press conference on Monday afternoon. We also talked about what we perceived to be the murder weapons, which in this case were pots, pans and oven grates. In 2021, modern technology identified a link between the DNA evidence and James Vanest. Vanest, who was 25 years old at the time of the murder, lived in the same apartment building as Miller. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Vanest was interviewed three years ago, he admitted that he lied to investigators when they questioned him in 1981. Detectives said Vanest also voluntarily told a self-serving story about why his DNA would be found at the scene of the murder. Vanest claimed the victim was grateful that he chased away a homeless man trying to get into her apartment. Vanest said he came home from a bar on the night of the slaying and that Miller invited him into her apartment, and that she was fine when he left. Detectives did not buy the story. We dont give up, we keep digging, we keep the investigation going. The case is never closed. It may be cold, but we still look at it, and I think this is an example of it, said Mansfield Police Detective Terry Butler, who led the cold case investigation. In June of this year, detectives attempted to do a follow-up interview with Vanest about the results of the DNA testing, but he refused to answer their questions. Vanest said he felt investigators were trying to build a case against him and indicated that he was hiring an attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said their brief exchange with Vanest set into motion a series of events that would lead to a violent confrontation in Stark County. They said after the aborted interview, Vanest quickly sold his home in Canton, purchased a pickup truck and trailer and fled to West Virginia. While in the Mountain State, he was arrested and later indicted on federal weapons charges. After posting bond, Vanest returned to Stark County and was hiding in a hotel in Jackson Township. Man arrested, charged with arson, accused of torching pickup with Molotov cocktail Members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force and the Canton Regional SWAT team attempted to arrest Vanest on Nov. 18. During a shootout at the hotel, Vanest was shot and killed by members of the SWAT team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators believe the 68-year-old Vanest knew that authorities were also planning to charge him with the 1981 murder of Debra Miller. This is a sad and tragic case. Although, the closing of this case does not bring Debra back and it does not replace the last 43 years that this family has had to endure. However, we hope this closing of the case brings some closure to them finally, said Mansfield Police Chief Jason Bammann. Meanwhile, authorities in Stark County said officer Patrick Lewis, who was wounded in the shoot-out between the SWAT team and James Vanest, is recovering from his injuries. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. (WSPA) Funeral services to honor former President Jimmy Carter were released by the Joint Task Force, and are scheduled to begin on January 4, 2025. Carter was the 39th President of the United States. He died on Sunday at the age of 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. The Joint Task Force said Carters funeral schedule includes a four day schedule. The final day of services will be January 9, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carter Family invites the public to honor and pay respects to former President Carter by attending any of the public viewings. Mourners are asked to arrive early and to plan accordingly. Full details are as followed: January 4 The state funeral will begin with the arrival of the Carter Family at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia, at 10:15 a.m. Special Agents will carry Carters remains to the hearse , beginning the motorcade. The motorcade will travel through Plains to Carters family home for a brief pause at 10:50 a.m. The National Park Service will give a salute and ring the farm bell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motorcade will continue to Atlanta at 10:55 a.m. and will stop at the State Capitol. A moment of silence will be given by Governor Brian Kemp, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia Legislature members, and Georgia State Patrol Troopers at 3 p.m. Carters remains will be transported to the Carter Presidential Center for an arrival ceremony at 3:45 p.m. and service at 4 p.m. He will be laid to rest after the service, and mourners can pay their respects from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, January 7. January 5 Carter will continue to lie in repose and the public is invited to continue to pay their respects throughout this time. January 6 Carter will continue to lie in repose and the public is invited to continue to pay their respects throughout this time. January 7 A ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m., after Carters departure at the Carter Presidential Center. The Carter Family and former president will travel to the Dobbins Air Reserve Base to travel to Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plane is scheduled to land in Maryland at 12:45 p.m., where Carters remains will be transferred with ceremony to the hearse. A motorcade will begin at 1:15 p.m. to the U.S. Navy Memorial. Carters remains will be transferred from the hearse to a horse drawn caisson for a funeral procession to the U.S. Capitol at 2 p.m. Members of Congress will pay their respects during a service at 3 p.m. Carter will lie in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. The public is invited to pay their respects from 7 p.m. until midnight. January 8 The former president will continue to lie in state. The public is invited to pay their respects from 7 a.m. until 7 a.m. on January 9. January 9 Carter will depart the U.S. Capitol with a ceremony at 9 a.m. The motorcade will travel to Washington National Cathedral for a brief arrival ceremony at 9:30 a.m., followed by the National Funeral Service at 10 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter and his family will return to Georgia at 2 p.m., where a private funeral service will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church. After the private funeral service, Carter and his family will travel by a motorcade at 4:45 p.m. The public is invited to participate in the motorcade route through Plains, to Carters final resting place. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. TEHRAN, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Iran's envoy to the United Nations (UN) has rejected the accusations by the United States and Britain about Tehran's role in escalating tensions in the Red Sea, Iran's official news agency IRNA reported Tuesday. Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran's permanent representative to the UN, made the remarks on Monday in letters to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Linda Thomas-Greenfield, UN Security Council (UNSC) president for the month of December, while reacting to what he called "baseless and politically-motivated" anti-Tehran claims made by the U.S. and British representatives at a UNSC briefing earlier in the day. During the briefing, U.S. Deputy Representative to the UN Dorothy Shea accused Iran of "fully funding" Yemen's Houthis and providing them with "lethal weapons" for attacks on Israel. In similar remarks, Barbara Woodward, British permanent representative to the UN, also accused Iran of assisting the Yemeni armed forces in their ongoing operations against Israel. Iravani denounced these accusations as "unfounded" claims intended to escalate tensions and create an excuse to cause further instability in West Asia. He also slammed Israel as being behind these "baseless" accusations, in a "clear bid" to throw dirt on Iran and to cover its own "illegal actions and destructive activities." The Iranian envoy emphasized that it is Israel, not Iran, that has always pursued a policy of "provocation" and has long been a "serious threat" to peace and security in the region and beyond. He said Iran has always been committed to international law, the UN Charter, and UNSC resolutions. The Houthi group has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023 to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their conflict with Israelis. In response, Israel and the U.S.-British naval coalition in the region have been conducting intermittent strikes on Houthi targets to deter the group. MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WKRN) A future interchange in Mt. Juliet is being called a game changer when it comes to significantly reducing traffic. Love it or hate it, Mt. Juliet continues to see growth, and with it comes more traffic. Our interchange bridge at I-40 is simply just at capacity now, said Mt. Juliet Mayor James Maness. The future of Mt. Juliet is heading to Golden Bear Gateway According Mayor Maness, majority of traffic comes from outside the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We see traffic from Davidson County, from Rutherford County because its easier than navigating I-24, said Maness. Back in 2023, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced it would spend hundreds of millions of dollars on expanding and improving critical highways across the state to help with congestion. The Central Pike Interchange in Mt. Juliet was just one of the areas officials said they were investing in. The interchange is expected to significantly reduce traffic near The Providence area. Wilson County community members raise concerns about State Route 109 Thats showing reducing 60 percent traffic through The Providence area, so that is a game changer for us, added Maness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Maness said with the project, the city will also complete the widening of Mt. Juliet Road within city limits. Even the widening there is going to be diminishing the returns on that until we take the pass-through traffic out because of our capacity issues at the interchange, Maness told News 2. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com While construction is set to begin in 2028, Maness said they are beginning pre-requisites to hopefully move up the timeline. We have to as a city protect what we have and make sure people can navigate through our retail areas, Maness concluded. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. (Bloomberg) -- The junta in Gabon, the worlds second-most forested nation, has taken full control of the nations timber company, giving it direct access to a $620 million industry. Most Read from Bloomberg The military rulers took over control of the Societe Nationale des Bois du Gabon from the Gabon Special Economic Zone, which is managed by Dubai-based Arise IIP and the African nations government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabons timber industry accounts for about 3.2% of the $19.4 billion economy, according to the World Bank. The government has so far strictly controlled logging and banned exports in 2010. The decree brings 600,000 hectares (1.5 million acres) of forest under the juntas control, military leader Brice Oligui Nguema said. This shows our determination to protect our resources, manage them responsibly and make them a driving force for the development of our country, Nguema said on X. The junta has been taking over assets. Earlier this year it used its preemptive rights to buy shares in Assala Energy, preventing a sale to Etablissements Maurel & Prom SA by the Carlyle Group. The latest move will help the military rulers improve the use of Gabons forest assets, according to Marc Ona Essangui, head of the Brainforest, a non-state organization, and third vice-president of the nations Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The challenge today is to set up the mechanism for controlling logging, Essangui said. We must have systems for the monitoring and the traceability of wood. We must have a forest code that lives up to international standards and above all one that guarantees the sustainable exploitation of forest resources. The junta signed a memorandum of understanding with Arise IIP on Monday, Nguema said. It wasnt immediately clear whether Arise was compensated. The company couldnt be reached for comment by phone or e-mail outside office hours. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) A judicial conduct watchdog commission is making sure a disgraced Oneida County Court judges appeal will not go away quietly. According to paperwork filed by the Commission of Judicial Conduct on Monday, December 30, the judicial conduct watchdog opposes acceptance of a resignation by Oneida County trial court judge Erin Gall. The Commission says that allowing Gall to resign would promote a legal way around poor conduct. Gall was seen on a police officers body-worn camera engaging in a racial rant outside of a graduation party in July of 2022. In the video, Gall is shown threatening to shoot a group of black teenagers, showing partiality to police officers and using foul language, among other things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was placed on paid suspension while the appeals process played out. From the time of her suspension until Tuesday, December 31, Gall has earned approximately $96,000. Gall still has one year remaining on her 14-year term on the post. Her resignation is effective on Wednesday, January 1. Two weeks ago, the State Commission on Judicial Conduct decided to remove Gall from her position on the bench. Gall took steps to appeal the decision, but in mid-December, she withdrew her appeal, saying she no longer wished to expose her and her family to the reaction from the incident, which included death threats. A hearing into Galls appeal was scheduled for next week but has since been deleted from the docket. By law, the Court of Appeals would be required to accept her motion and remove Gall from the bench. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Gall has asked that they make no specific findings other than removal, to help ease any harm to her family. Gall has also asked the court not to issue any order that might characterize her conduct that day as racially motivated. [The commissions recommendation] incited numerous physical threats upon my family, requiring 24-hour law enforcement protection. In particular, my two sons received numerous death threats. The fear has been immeasurable and terrifying. I do not believe that I can move forward with arguing this appeal for fear that my family will be put in danger once again, Gall said in her motion to withdraw. However, the commission had concerns with that condition. In essence, [Gall] asks the Court to confirm her removal in a manner that would permit her to continue to claim the Commissions determination was wrong, notwithstanding that pursuant to Judiciary Law 44(7), if the judge accepts such determination or fails to request a review thereof by the court of appeals, the court of appeals shall thereupon order his [or her] removal or retirement in accordance with the findings of the commission, Robert Tembeckjian the Administrator and Counsel of the Commission on Judicial Conduct said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was also revealed in the Commissions paperwork that Gall will apparently start as an assistant county attorney in Herkimer County, beginning on Thursday, January 2. Herkimer County officials have not responded regarding the appointment. Galls lawyer Robert Julian has also said he was not aware of Gall taking that job. The commission has said that the Court of Appeals may want to weigh in on appropriate discipline for what they call a racially charged off-the-bench tirade in which Gall invoked gun violence, expressed bias in favor of law enforcement, and denigrated the importance of extreme risk protection orders. They also asked the Court of Appeals to address Galls explanation of an assault that occurred in 1990 while she was an undergraduate at Boston College. Gall explained during that investigation that she was under extreme emotional distress. The Commission has said that they will not fight Galls request to withdraw, but will defer to the Court of Appeals sound judgment and discretion in the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. Dec. 30BISMARCK James Myhre, district game warden for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department in New Rockford, received the agency's Director's Award for professional excellence at the department's annual staff meeting in December. Myhre has provided exceptional service to North Dakota for 22 years, Jeb Williams, Game and Fish director, said in a news release. "He knows that helping hunters, anglers, trappers and boaters is only part of the job," Williams said. "James is a farmer and rancher and knows the importance of working with and assisting in his district any way he can. He is one of the highest performers in the enforcement division year after year. He always goes above and beyond in providing exceptional service and represents the department in a way that we all should aspire to." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams also honored several other employees with performance-based awards during the annual meeting. * Paul Bailey, south central district fisheries supervisor, Bismarck, was recognized for his research, along with managing Lake Oahe and 90 fishing waters in south central North Dakota. * Dale Repnow, procurement officer, Bismarck, was recognized for his knowledge, work ethic, dedication and willingness to help others. * Greg Freeman, communications supervisor, Bismarck, was recognized for his leadership, innovative ideas and commitment to expanding outreach and marketing. * Justin Mattson, administrative staff officer, Bismarck, was recognized for his contributions to every division and for overseeing several major building projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Kyle Hoge, fisheries development specialist, Bismarck, was recognized for his knowledge of construction, fabrication and equipment operation in the fisheries development program. In addition to special recognition recipients, Shawn Sperling, district game warden, Minot, was named North Dakota's Boating Officer of the Year. His district includes lakes Sakakawea, Darling and Audubon, and several smaller lakes. According to Chief Game Warden Scott Winkelman, Sperling has a passion for boating and boating enforcement, and his patrols are effective at deterring violations and keeping those on the water safe. In related enforcement recognition, Keenan Snyder, district game warden for the department in Williston, has been named North Dakota's 2024 Wildlife Officer of the Year by Shikar-Safari Club International, a private conservation group that annually recognizes outstanding wildlife officers in each state. In a nomination letter sent to Shikar-Safari, chief warden Winkelman said Snyder's district extends from the Missouri River bottoms to the Prairie Pothole Region along the Canadian border. "Warden Snyder diligently patrols his district and effectively addresses violators at all times of the year," Winkelman said. "He is also a skilled investigator and consistently makes strong criminal cases. He is always willing to help other wardens on complex investigations to ensure that violators are held accountable." PORT ANGELES, Wash. (KSNW) Genetic genealogy has solved a sexual assault cold case that happened 36 years ago in Washington State. On June 22, 1988, two 11-year-old girls were sexually assaulted by an unknown suspect during a sleepover in an attic playhouse at one of the childrens homes. Despite an exhaustive investigation that included assistance from the FBI, Port Angeles Police say the case went unsolved. In 2001, investigators uploaded a DNA profile of the suspect to the Combined DNA Index System, but no matches were found. Over a decade later, due to the proximity of British Columbia, Canada, the profile was provided to Interpol for a search of Canadas database. That, too, was unsuccessful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5 people charged in death of former One Direction star Liam Payne In 2023, an investigator with the department contacted Identifiers International, a genetic genealogy company, who were able to help identify a potential suspect. The potential suspect had died a decade earlier and had been cremated. However, investigators learned that a vial of fluid taken from his eyes during an autopsy had been preserved. Using that fluid, a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism DNA test was conducted, which positively identified the suspect as Kim John Cederleaf of Quilcene, Washington, who died in 2013 at the age of 59. Cederleaf had no criminal history and had never been a suspect in the case. Quilcene is 46 miles from Port Angeles, and its unknown why he was in Port Angeles then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are still investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. A Georgia state judge has died by suicide on his official last day on the job. The Effingham County Sheriffs Office said that Judge Stephen Yekel appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at the Effingham County Courthouse, Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie, told local ABC affiliate WJCL. Police officials say they believe that Yekel died by suicide sometime last night, but was found between 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning by a sheriffs deputy in a courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives from the Effingham County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Related: Ky. Sheriff Charged with Murder After District Judge Found Dead in His Chamber Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. In a news release, the Effingham County Sheriffs Office confirmed they are conducting the investigation into Judge Yekels death and that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct the autopsy. WJCL reported that Yekel recently attempted to resign from his position after losing his reelection bid earlier this year but was denied by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Maryland Judge Shot Dead on Driveway of His Home, Say Police: 'Horrible News' When asked by the outlet to confirm the information, McDuffie acknowledged the resignation attempt did indeed occur one day last week. The sheriff also confirmed that a note from Yekel was sent to Gov. Kemp, but it has not been determined exactly what the note contains. Speaking directly to Yekels family in the interview, McDuffie offered his condolences. This is never good for anybody, the familys distraught. This is supposed to be a happy time this time of year, and now theyve got this. I cant imagine. If they have anything they need from us, well be available, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: New Mexico Judge Is Fatally Shot by Husband, Who Also Killed Dogs, Cat Before Turning Gun on Himself Yekel, whose law career spanned over 45 years, was appointed to the state court by Gov. Kemp in 2022, local NBC affiliate WSAV reported. Read the original article on People German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called on the nation to display unity and optimism for 2025 in his New Year's speech, even as he faces a series of crises and significant pressure ahead of early elections. "Strength comes from solidarity. And we are a country that sticks together," Scholz said in his pre-recorded New Year's address, which is set to be broadcast on Tuesday. He said the population had displayed this in an impressive way following the deadly car-ramming at Magdeburg's Christmas market, in which five people died and more than 200 were injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz thanked all emergency workers, nurses, paramedics and doctors for their work in the aftermath of the December 20 attack. Police officers and rescue workers responded in a highly professional manner during what he described as a "night of horror," even though many were themselves in shock. People at the Christmas market also spontaneously offered to help. "That's how we are. That's how Germany is," said Scholz. "We are not a country of antagonism, nor of misunderstanding. But a country of togetherness." "We can draw strength from this especially in difficult times like these," he said, referring to the nation's weak economy, rising prices and the Russian war on Ukraine, launched nearly three years ago. In the face of such concerns, he suggested it is no wonder many are questioning Germany's future. His answer is: "Our solidarity makes us strong." Confidence thanks to successes Scholz highlighted Germany's position as the world's third-largest economy, saying part of this "success story" includes many workers from other countries who contribute to the nation's growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let us not be divided," he urged. Scholz also mentioned opportunities for advancement, good medical care availability, close cooperation between stakeholders such as labour and employers' associations, and widespread volunteering in daily life as evidence of German successes. Scholz also called on people to vote in the early parliamentary elections on February 23, called after his three-party coalition collapsed. "How things continue in Germany is up to you, the citizens. It is not the owners of social media who decide this," he added, in what many are likely to take as a reference to tech billionaire Elon Musk, though Scholz did not mention him by name. Musk, owner of social media platform X, recently called on people to support the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the February 23 vote, calling the party "the last spark of hope" for Germany in a newspaper opinion piece. While Berlin saw his comment as an attempt to influence the vote, Musk justified his intervention with the fact that he is chief executive of electric carmaker Tesla, which operates a huge production plant near Berlin, and thus has a legitimate interest. Scholz warns about divisions Generally, Scholz said, debates might give people the impression that "the more extreme the opinion, the more it attracts attention." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, he said, "it is not those who shout the loudest who determine how things progress in Germany, but the vast majority of sensible and decent people." He said that also applies when it comes to the election. "My wish is that we do not let ourselves be incited against one another," he said. After the Magdeburg attack, wild rumours spread online within a matter of minutes, he said, though many turned out to be false. "Such things divide and weaken us. Such things do not do our country any good," Scholz said. He also promised that any failures on behalf of the security authorities would be clarified and resolved. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called on the nation to display unity and optimism for 2025 in his New Year's speech, even as he faces a series of crises and significant pressure ahead of early elections. "Strength comes from solidarity. And we are a country that sticks together," Scholz said in his pre-recorded New Year's address, which is set to be broadcast on Tuesday. He said the population had displayed this in an impressive way following the deadly car-ramming at Magdeburg's Christmas market, in which five people died and more than 200 were injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz thanked all emergency workers, nurses, paramedics and doctors for their work in the aftermath of the December 20 attack. Police officers and rescue workers responded in a highly professional manner during what he described as a "night of horror," even though many were themselves in shock. People at the Christmas market also spontaneously offered to help. "That's how we are. That's how Germany is," said Scholz. We are not a country of antagonism, nor of misunderstanding. But a country of togetherness." "We can draw strength from this especially in difficult times like these, he said, referring to the nation's weak economy, rising prices and the Russian war on Ukraine, launched nearly three years ago. Scholz also called on people to vote in the early parliamentary elections on February 23, called after his three-party coalition collapsed. "How things continue in Germany is up to you the citizens. It is not the owners of social media who decide this," he added, in what many are likely to take as a reference to tech billionaire Elon Musk, though Scholz did not mention him by name. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz offered subtle criticism around billionaire Elon Musks influence on President-elect Trump early Tuesday, saying the nations fate will not be decided by the owners of social media. In our debates, one can be forgiven for sometimes thinking the more extreme an opinion is, the more attention it will garner, Scholz said in his New Years Eve message, without specifically pointing to Musk or Trump, according to The Guardian. He added that Germanys future will be up to the vast majority of reasonable and decent people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After all, its customary to make wishes on New Years Eve, Scholz said later. What I wish for is that we will not let ourselves be played off each other. His comments come days after the German government accused the billionaire of trying to influence its February election. Musk wrote an op-ed in the nations Welt am Sonntag newspaper backing the far-right political party Alternative for Germany. In the piece, the staunch Trump ally also called for the resignation of Scholz. Christiane Hoffmann, a spokesperson for the chancellors office, acknowledged that despite the perceived meddling, Musk had a right to his opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After all, freedom of opinion also covers the greatest nonsense, Hoffmann said Monday. The chancellor in his comments Tuesday pointed to what he called disinformation on social media around the recent Christmas market attack in the city of Magdeburg, which left five dead and 200 injured. No small number of these rumors and conjectures, though, have meanwhile been debunked. These things divide and weaken us, he said, The Guardian reported. This is not good for our country. The back-and-forth follows criticism from Democrats around who is calling the shots ahead of Trumps return to the White House. Many have taunted the former president, claiming President Musk is really in charge after the billionaire helped to kill a bipartisan spending agreement earlier this month and the president-elect seemingly followed suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump over the weekend rejected the claims, echoing his teams remarks that he is the real leader of the GOP. No, hes not gonna be president, that I can tell you, Trump said about Musk during a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix on Sunday. And Im safe, you know why? He cant be, he wasnt born in this country. The relationship between the two has also been scrutinized by key Trump allies, including former adviser Steve Bannon and far-right activist Laura Loomer, in light of recent conservative infighting around the nonimmigrant H-1B visa program. When reached to for comment, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung pointed The Hill to the president-elects previous comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Beijing on Tuesday approved new regulations on autonomous vehicles, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, marking significant progress in advancing autonomous vehicle technologies in the Chinese capital amid the country's efforts to support the industry further. The regulations, passed by the Standing Committee of Beijing Municipal People's Congress, explicitly encourage and support policies and measures for technological innovation and industrial development in autonomous vehicles. The guidelines also cover areas such as infrastructure planning and construction, on-road traffic management and safety assurance, providing a clear regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles equipped with Level 3 and higher systems. Hu Fangfang, director of the automobile testing department of the Beijing Products Quality Supervision and Inspection Institute, participated in the legislative process. She said that the new regulations summarize the operational experiences from earlier stages and introduce an annual inspection system for autonomous vehicles running in the city. "Traditional vehicle inspections lack coverage for intelligent systems. The new evaluation framework will further ensure the safety of these vehicles," she said. According to the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport, the regulations noted legal responsibilities related to failure to perform routine maintenance and inspections on operational vehicles, along with stipulations of penalties for other violations, such as "unauthorized use of autonomous vehicles for road testing without approval," and "non-compliance in appointing qualified safety operators or platform safety monitors." During a press conference on Tuesday, the commission said that the construction of intelligent roadside infrastructure for autonomous driving could be advanced by upgrading existing roadside facilities. Liu Yu, deputy general manager of Beijing Automotive Group Co., Ltd. (BAIC), said that the legislation has boosted the confidence of related companies in continued investment and will encourage automakers to increase investment, accelerate technological iterations, and continuously enhance the consumer experience. In recent years, Beijing, with nearly 21.9 million residents and 7.6 million automobiles, has emerged as a national leader in autonomous vehicle development. Since the launch of China's first high-level autonomous driving demonstration zone in September 2020, the city has successfully developed intelligent infrastructure across 600 square km. The capital is also home to leading companies in the field, including Baidu, Pony.ai and Neolix. The demonstration zone has issued road test permits to 33 companies, covering nearly 900 vehicles with a combined autonomous driving test mileage of over 32 million kilometers, accounting for over a quarter of the total national autonomous test mileage. By the end of August, Chinese public security authorities had issued 16,000 test licenses for autonomous vehicles, with some 32,000 kilometers of roads nationwide opened for autonomous vehicle testing, according to the Ministry of Public Security. The southern Chinese metropolis of Shenzhen, hosting the headquarters of BYD and Huawei, became the first city in China to permit autonomous vehicles on public roads following the implementation of regulations on intelligent connected vehicles in August 2022. Two men are accused of firing at a vehicle in Gig Harbor last year in retaliation for the 2021 murder of 19-year-old Tyrone Sero. Demondrae Jones, 20, and Rocco Anthony Fanara, 19, have been charged in Pierce County with two counts of first-degree assault and drive-by shooting for the June 6, 2023, incident. Prosecutors wrote in charging documents that no one was injured. Pleas of not guilty were entered on Jones and Fanaras behalves during their arraignments Monday afternoon. Pierce County Superior Court Commissioner pro tempore Meagan Foley set their individual bails at $500,000, court records show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors wrote that the victims were siblings of Kannon Anthony Stephens, who was one of three people convicted in Seros murder in Port Orchard. The siblings might have been targeted as a retaliatory attack linked to an ongoing gang-related conflict between Seros family and a group from Port Orchard. Stephens was sentenced to more than 16 years in prison for his role in Seros murder, documents show. Charging details Gig Harbor officers and Pierce County deputies were dispatched at 9:34 p.m. that day to the 3700 block of Hunt Street and the 3800 block of 61st Street Court Northwest to reports of a possible drive-by shooting, according to charging documents. In an initial interview, the siblings, a man and a juvenile girl, said they went to a Chipotle Grill on Point Forsdick Drive between 8:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. One of them told police in an interview there was a group of men in the Chipotle when they arrived. Some of them were wearing face masks and bandannas, prosecutors wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the siblings finished picking up their order, the group was no longer in the restaurant, prosecutors wrote. As the siblings drove away, they noticed a car aggressively following them as they turned north onto 38th Avenue, prosecutors wrote. When they made a U-Turn on Hunt Street, one of the siblings said, two cars approached them from the other direction at a high rate of speed. The girl noticed a man wearing a face mask, leaning out of a one of the cars driver side windows. He pointed a black handgun at them and began firing, prosecutors wrote. The siblings then drove off. Surveillance footage allegedly showed that Fanara and Jones were part of the group that was inside the restaurant when the siblings arrived, prosecutors wrote. Further footage showed that the group went to the parking lot, but one person returned to the Chipotle and monitored the siblings for a minute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A relative of the siblings spoke to officers and said the shooting might have been a targeted attack linked to the conflict between Seros family and a Port Orchard group, prosecutors wrote. In a later interview, the brother said when the vehicles approached his vehicle, he stated that he knew he was going to be shot at. He also identified one of shooters as Fanara, prosecutors wrote. The brother said he recognized Fanara from social media and gatherings with mutual friends. The brother said that as he was continuing to drive away, he heard and felt shots hitting the car, prosecutors wrote. He and his sister parked at a house on 61st Street Court where he got a firearm, prosecutors wrote. As he was going back to his vehicle, one of the cars allegedly fired more shots as it drove by. The brother said he only fired two rounds and surrendered his handgun to police for ballistics testing. Ballistics results allegedly showed that Fanaras DNA was associated with one of the 9 mm magazines that police found at the scene, prosecutors wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives spoke to Fanara and Jones, arresting them on Dec. 27 during a high-risk traffic stop in Gig Harbor, document show. In an interview with Fanara, he initially denied his involvement but then allegedly admitted his intent was to scare one of the siblings, prosecutors wrote. He said he thought he saw the brother holding a shiny firearm from his vehicle. Fanara allegedly admitted to firing multiple rounds and said his magazine fell onto the pavement. The driver of the one of the cars identified as being involved in the shooting confirmed that Jones was a passenger in the car and fired several shots, prosecutors wrote. Jones initially denied being involved during an interview with detectives, but allegedly later said he was a passenger in one of the vehicles and fired three shots at the victims. He indicated that he knew Seros family and was friends with him before his murder. Orange County Elections Supervisor Glen Gilzeans $20,000-a-month consulting deal with the states Walt Disney World tourism oversight district concluded Tuesday, ending a pay agreement that allowed him to draw extra money from the Gov. Ron DeSantis-backed district while working full-time as the countys elections chief. The agreement was part of Gilzeans exit plan when he resigned as the districts administrator to become Orange Countys elections chief at a salary of about $205,000 a year. The consulting contract ran from April 1 until the end of the year, paying him a total of $180,000 for advising the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. The agreement didnt include a specific set of tasks, other than assisting the district and its new administrator on a part-time basis that would not interfere with Gilzeans other full-time employment obligations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The consulting agreement ends December 31 as outlined in the contract, district spokesman Matthew Oberly said when asked if the agreement would be renewed. As a consultant, Gilzean submitted monthly reports to the district highlighting his outreach work on a Buy Local program he created that seeks to award district contracts to locally owned and veteran-owned businesses. Gilzean, who was unavailable comment Tuesday, wrote that he hosted roundtables with business owners to educate them about opportunities available through the initiative. He wrote that it helped channel investments into the local economy. The districts five-member, DeSantis-appointed board hired Gilzean in May 2023 following a state overhaul of what was previously known as the Reedy Creek Improvement District. He was given a $400,000-a-year salary for leading the special district that provides fire protection and other government services to Disney World. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just under a year into his tenure, DeSantis appointed Gilzean in March to serve as Orange Countys elections supervisor. He filled a vacancy created when longtime Democratic elections chief Bill Cowles retired in January 2024. Between Gilzeans elections job and consulting contract, he earned about $37,000 monthly in taxpayer-funded income. Gilzeans term as elections chief ends on Jan. 6 when Democrat Karen Castor Dentel takes over. Gilzean, who opted not to run for election, hasnt announced what his plans are after he leaves office. His brief tenure as elections supervisor was marked by controversy. Hes waged a political battle with county officials over the offices spending. Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond accused Gilzean of overspending his budget without proper authorization and improperly disbursing millions of dollars to local nonprofits for scholarships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gilzean dismissed the countys criticism as a political witch hunt. Leaders at the tourism oversight district defended Gilzeans consulting deal, saying it was needed to ensure continuity of government and was similar to what was offered to his predecessor John Classe. Stephanie Kopelousos, a DeSantis political ally who replaced Gilzean at the district, authorized the agreement. The districts board approved her hiring on March 27. In this year-end episode of Empowered Hawaii, hosts Jeff Mikulina and Kelly Simek highlight the inspiring work of organizations dedicated to restoring and protecting Hawaiis natural beauty, showcasing how these efforts are strengthening ecosystems, preserving endangered species, and connecting people to the land. First, Jeff visits Jenna Patague of the Army Natural Resources Program Oahu. Together, they explore the Waianae Mountain Range, where the program focuses on reintroducing native Hawaiian plants into their natural habitats. Jenna proudly shares the programs successes, such as cultivating critically endangered plants in their nurserysome of which exist nowhere else in the world. She emphasizes that the program welcomes civilian volunteers, offering an opportunity for everyone, not just those in the military. Next, Kelly meets Allison Valdez of Protect and Preserve Hawaii, who is leading efforts to restore Pia Valley in East Oahu. Through the removal of invasive guinea grass and the replanting of native Hawaiian plants, Allison and her team are rejuvenating the valleys natural ecosystem. She also discusses how volunteers play a vital role in their mission, inviting viewers to join hands in protecting this cherished land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, Jeff and Kelly head to Sandy Beach to connect with Reese Liggett and Suzan Harada, Outings Leaders for the Sierra Club of Hawaii. The duo shares the Sierra Clubs ongoing work to clean and restore the coastline, ensuring these beaches remain pristine for future generations. Their passion for conservation underscores the importance of community involvement in tackling environmental challenges. As the year closes, Empowered Hawaii celebrates the impactful work of these organizations and invites viewers to join the effort. Whether through planting native species, clearing invasive grasses, or cleaning coastlines, these actions show how collective care for the land can lead to a brighter, greener future for Hawaii. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Marce Gutierrez-Graudins was hoping shed be a part of history last month when more than 170 countries gathered in Busan, South Korea, to forge a legally binding global treaty to curb plastic pollution. We were hoping this was the last meeting, the California-based ocean conservation expert, who was part of the U.S. delegation, told NBC News. The global treaty didnt happen; countries failed to reach an agreement in the fifth and final round of the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meetings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to have at least another round sometime in the late spring or summer, Gutierrez-Graudins said. Instead of locking up a potentially problematic treaty for decades, she said it was worth spending more time trying to figure out the financing and how to monitor transparency and countries responsibilities. Marce Gutierrez-Graudins founded Azul, a nonprofit organization to preserve marine resources, after she saw the depletion of fish in her work in commercial fishing and aquaculture. And as the year comes to an end, the Mexican American environmental leader and founder of Azul, a nonprofit to preserve marine resources, remains positive and focused on the work ahead. Researchers estimate that if nothing is done to curb plastic pollution, it will double by 2050. A global treaty could help reduce plastic pollution by 91%. Despite headwinds like the recent impasse in South Korea and uncertainty over whether the incoming Trump administration would quash an international agreement to curb plastic pollution, Gutierrez-Graudins said when it comes to protecting the environment, we have to work with who is in front of us, and that is putting aside our political or federal preferences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ocean conservation expert said that when it comes to the environment and her fellow Latinos, its really a nonpartisan issue. People understand that things are not as they used to be; people understand that were having more emergencies. In her home state of California, for example, people are aware of rising temperatures, the scarcity of water and more frequent fires, and across the country they see the devastation from recent, stronger hurricanes. Gutierrez-Graudins cited a poll of 2,500 Latino registered voters commissioned by her organization and released earlier this year. Most Latinos agreed that governments should invest more in protecting the ocean, even if it means having to pay more out of their own pockets, according to the national survey. Regarding the use of plastics, over 70% of Latino voters polled supported a ban on single-use plastic products and 75% of them favored regulating the use and types of chemicals used in plastic production. Three-quarters of them also supported an international treaty aiming at ending plastic pollution, even if it means the U.S. may have to follow difficult and expensive rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While recent headlines about plastic use have focused on microplastics in the human body, Gutierrez-Graudins said there also needs to be an emphasis on tackling its production, including where its produced and how its affecting people in the area. Gutierrez-Graudins pointed to a viral video of a turtle with a straw stuck in its nose, which drew attention to the need to curb plastic products, as NBC News reported. But by the time that straw hurt a marine animal, the plastic had already left behind a path of destruction and was in the last phase of its pollution cycle, she explained. We are seeing that this is a problem that is both from the extraction of oil, the extraction of gas, the transportation, the production, the disposal, the use, the endocrine disruptors that are impacting us, Gutierrez-Graudins said. What were looking at with a treaty is really actually taking a holistic view of this. Looking ahead to the next international meeting, she and her peers are negotiating toward a comprehensive plan that tackles the entire life cycle of plastic production and its effects. Seeing the effects 'firsthand' Before she founded Azul in 2011, Gutierrez-Graudins began her career in the commercial fishing and aquaculture fields doing logistics and operations, helping get permits to move and transport fish. She first began to get inklings of environmental harm when she noticed the company she worked for was receiving fewer fish while spending more on fuel to get what it needed. That, combined with projections of dwindling fish supplies in coming decades, resonated with her. I was seeing that firsthand, she said. It really struck me, that was not something I want to be part of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Gutierrez-Graudins prepares to resume global negotiations, her nonprofit Azul currently has three active campaigns in her home state. Deja el Plastico (Ditch the Plastic) is aimed at reducing plastic pollution in California; its efforts helped lead to the passage of the states ban on single-use plastic bags in 2016. Latina abuelas, or grandmothers, can offer an example of how to use less plastic, Gutierrez-Graudins said, recalling the abuelita bags her grandmother took with her when she went shopping for groceries. My grandmother had a reusable bag, she said. I mean, it may not look like the one you get at Whole Foods or at an organic market, but it was still the same. Azuls Vamos a La Playa (Lets go to the Beach) campaign is centered around coastal access. While a more than 40-year-old law known as the California Coastal Act currently allows Californians to access the coastline, its not always clear at the local level, she said. Her team works to enhance beach access and works with regulators to ensure communities are informed about their rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of people dont really understand that the coast is for everybody, Gutierrez-Graudins said. Maybe they have been made to feel unwelcome, and Ive seen that firsthand. She also started the Latinos Marinos (Marine Latinos) campaign, which is the organizations civic engagement arm inspired by Gutierrez-Graudins experiences she was often the only Latina in a predominately white field and said shes faced racism from the public, peers and policymakers. Marce Gutierrez-Graudins speaks with students at the GenSea Binational Academy in November. Were creating a place for people to feel included. And we provide the tool kit. We provide the opportunities. And you know, what I tell people is that our job is translating, and I dont mean translating in Spanish. Our job is translating opportunities, Gutierrez-Graudins said. About two years ago, Azul launched the Rising Leaders Initiative to train community members to advocate for ocean conservation, which includes travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in Ocean Week and the chance to meet with elected officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gutierrez-Graudins is excited about more representation and diversity in her field and said social media has helped make conservation more accessible. She urges people who are interested in the work to connect online and to reach out to organizations like hers that provide on-ramps into the conservation space. When it comes to what ordinary people can do, Gutierrez-Graudins recommends everyone use as many reusables as they can and call and connect with elected officials and community leaders to work on reducing plastic pollution. She reassures people who dont consider themselves environmentally minded enough people would tell me, Well, I dont have a Prius that if theyre being judicious in what they do and mindful of the issues, thats still being an environmentalist. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com It's the same warning given year after December by Indianapolis police and other law enforcement agencies. Do NOT shoot your guns into the air to welcome in the new year! Indianapolis Metropolitan Police are again warning city residents to refrain from firing bullets into the sky as they celebrate the end of 2024 and the arrival of 2025. "What goes up, must come down. We say it time and time again," Officer Drew Brown told IndyStar. "We want people to celebrate responsibly and it's imperative that they do. Our officers will respond and people will be held accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The practice is dangerous and illegal, and can cause serious or fatal injuries. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police said they traditionally respond to several calls involving shots fired on New Year's Eve going into New Year's Day. News Year's Eve: Woman loses brother to falling bullet, then has house hit According to the department, a bullet fired into the air can ascend a mile or more. Smaller caliber ammunition can fall at a rate of 300 feet per second and larger caliber ammunition can fall at a rate of 500 feet per second. Here's why this is dangerous. A rate of 150 to 170 feet per second can penetrate the human skin, while a velocity of 200 feet per second can penetrate the human skull. If arrested for firing a weapon, you could face a criminal recklessness charge, which is a level 6 felony punishable by six months up to two and a half years in jail, and a potential fine of up to $10,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department urges anybody who sees someone actively firing a weapon to call 911. 'Stop shooting!' 11-year-old boy injured by bullet shot into air Fourth of July Officer Brown also wants people to be responsible when it comes to driving and obeying an city ordinances related to fireworks. Do NOT drink and drive and remember, fireworks can only be set off until midnight on New Year's Eve. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police are reminded people that calling 911 for non-emergencies can interrupt potentially lifesaving phone calls, especially on New Year's Eve. People are asked to call 311 or the non-emergency number at (317) 327-3811 for the following situations: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loud music/party Making a delayed police report Barking dogs Lost/stolen property Parking violations Vehicle accidents without injury Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Christopher Bailey speaks during an interview with IndyStar on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, at the City-County Building in downtown Indianapolis. Jade Jackson is a Public Safety Reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formally Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON. Communities Reporter, Ryan Murphy, contributed to this article. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: 'What goes up, must come down,' IMPD warns against New Year's gunfire Matthew Muller, who is behind bars over the infamous "Gone Girl kidnapping" case, is now facing charges for a series of home invasions from years earlier, prosecutors have confirmed The charges relate to cases in California dating back to 2009, a release from the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office stated The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said of the update, per the release The man who pleaded guilty to the infamous 2015 "Gone Girl kidnapping" case is now facing charges over a series of other Calif. home invasions, authorities have said. On Monday, Dec. 30, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office confirmed suspect Matthew Muller, 47 who was the subject of the 2024 Netflix docuseries American Nightmare, which chronicled the kidnapping of Denise Huskins from Vallejo had been charged over "a series of home invasion sexual assaults in Mountain View and Palo Alto 15 years ago," per a release. Prosecutors said "notorious kidnapping convict" Muller had been charged after authorities were able to use "advances in forensic DNA testing" following a new lead regarding the 2009 crimes, the release added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The District Attorneys Office coordinated with the Palo Alto and Mountain View police departments to send all evidence back to the DA Crime lab for further testing," authorities said in the post. "District Attorney Criminalists found Mullers DNA on straps he used to bind one of the victims. The police agencies and the District Attorneys Office then conducted [a] follow-up investigation that resulted in the current charges," it added. Dublin Police Department/AP Matthew Muller Related: Couple Featured in Netflix's 'American Nightmare' Doesn't Know Why They Were Targeted: 'Sticking Point to Recovery' (Exclusive) Muller a former Marine and a Harvard-educated lawyer who was later disbarred is now facing "two felony counts of committing a sexual assault." He faces life in prison if convicted, per the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DA's Office alleged Muller who PEOPLE reported had been sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2017 for the 2015 abduction of Huskins "broke into a womans Mountain View home, attacked her, tied her up, made her drink a concoction of medications, and said he was going to rape her" in the early hours of Sept. 29, 2009, per the release. "After the victim, in her 30s, persuaded him against it, he suggested the victim get a dog, then fled," the post stated. Muller is also accused of breaking into a Palo Alto home on Oct. 18, 2009, where he allegedly "bound and gagged a woman in her 30s and made her drink Nyquil." "He then began to assault her, before being persuaded to stop. Muller gave the victim crime prevention advice, then fled," prosecutors alleged in the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said, per the post. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Our hope is that this nightmare is over, Rosen added. The DA's Office recalled how Muller "gained national infamy" six years after the Huskins kidnapping case, which has been compared to the plot of the 2014 movie Gone Girl, starring Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck. The film followed the release of the 2012 book about a deceitful disappearance by Gillian Flynn. "On March 23, 2015, Muller broke into a Vallejo home, where he drugged, and tied up a young couple. He kidnapped Ms. Huskins, brought her to a cabin in South Lake Tahoe, and sexually assaulted her. Two days later, Muller drove his victim to Southern California and released her," the DA's Office recalled of the kidnapping in the Dec. 30 release. Paul Chinn/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn Related: American Nightmare Couple Speaks Out About Police 'Victim Blaming,' and Why They Hate 'Gone Girl' Moniker (Exclusive) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police initially thought the invasion and kidnapping was a hoax perpetrated by Huskins' boyfriend, Aaron Quinn. However, authorities eventually apologized and Muller was arrested in June 2015. Following Muller's sentencing, Quinn said he strategically destroyed our lives, the San Francisco Chronicle previously reported. I cannot and will not ever be the same, he said at the time, per the outlet. My family will not ever be the same. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. "Muller, who pleaded guilty in 2016 to the kidnapping and in 2022 to the sexual assaults of Ms. Huskins, is currently incarcerated in federal prison in Tucson, Arizona," the DA's Office said in the Dec. 30 release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information. Read the original article on People (KRON) Matthew Muller, the notorious convicted kidnapper in the Vallejo Gone Girl case has been charged in a series of home invasion sexual assaults reported 15 years ago in the San Francisco Bay Area. The incidents took place in Mountain View and Palo Alto, according to the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office. Muller, 47, was one of the central figures in the Netflix documentary series American Nightmare about the 2015 kidnapping of Denise Huskins. Authorities initially suspected the kidnapping as being a hoax perpetrated by Huskins and her boyfriend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locked door loophole bill set to take effect Wednesday On March 23, 2015, Muller broke into Huskins home where he drugged and tied up the couple. He kidnapped Huskins and drove her to a cabin in South Lake Tahoe where he sexually assaulted her. Denise Huskins talks to a Santa Cruz County Sheriffs deputy in Seaside on March 21, 2024. (KRON4 / Amy Larson) Two days later, he drove her to Southern California where he released her. The case drew comparisons to the film, Gone Girl. Muller was later identified as a suspect and arrested. The Vallejo Police Department eventually paid Huskins and her boyfriend $2.5 million in a settlement. According to the Santa Clara County DA, a new lead led to coordinating with the Palo Alto and Mountain View Police Departments. Evidence was sent back to the DAs crime lab for further testing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mullers DNA was found on straps used to bind one of the victims. The DA and the police departments conducted a follow up investigation resulting in these new charges. Muller, according to the DA, now faces two felony counts of committing a sexual assault during a home invasion for the 2009 crimes. The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Our hope is that this nightmare is over. CHP discovers firearm, nearly 29 lbs. of marijuana during North Bay traffic stop Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sept. 29, 2009, Muller allegedly broke into a Mountain View womans home, attacked her, tied her up, made her drunk a concoction of medications, and said he was going to rape her, the DA said. After the victim, a woman in her 30s, talked him out of it, he suggested she get a dog and fled. The second incident occurred on Oct. 18 of the same year. Muller allegedly broke into a Palo Alto home, bound and gagged a woman in her 30s and made her drink Nyquil. He began to assault her, the DA said, before being persuaded to stop. Muller gave the victim crime prevention advise and fled. Both cases were investigated but went unsolved, the DA said. Muller pleaded guilty to kidnapping in the Gone Girl case in 2016 and to the sexual assault of Denise Huskins in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, Muller was transferred from a federal prison in Tucson, Arizona, to a Santa Clara County jail to face the new charges. He is scheduled to be arraigned at the Hall of Justice in San Jose Monday afternoon. If convicted, he will face a life prison sentence, prosecutors said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Rep. Tim Burchett had an interesting way of praising embattled House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday amid uncertainty over his future as head of the chamber. The Tennessee Republican spoke favorably of Johnsons bid for the gavel this week, at least in part because he has not had an affairsomething that he finds very appealing in Washington, D.C., he said. On Fox News' Your World, Burchett was asked about how president-elect Donald Trump earlier in the day publicly backed Johnsons reelection as speaker. A vote is scheduled for Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is your mind solidified? Fox host Edward Lawrence asked. Is he the guy? Burchett, who would go on to speak kindly of his colleague, said he still had to decide whether Johnson would get his vote. I liked the way he handled the [omnibus bill], but ultimately Ill make up my mind Friday or sowhen we do the votes. Ill pray about it, Burchett said, adding that he intended on speaking with Johnson and Trump sometime before then. President Trump is very compelling, he continued. There is nobody bigger than him, and I dont think too many people want to tangle with him, especially on this. And you know, our members taking shots across the aislethats just what the news does. The legacy media, the try to tear the Republican Party down. But Im hoping for some big things out of us this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked if he believed Trumps endorsement will be enough to avoid the type of multi-ballot scenario that resulted in Johnson himself holding the gavel, Burchett said Johnson ultimately will be re-elected. I think the die has been cast, he said. Mikes been a good friend to me and theres nobody more honest that I have dealt with in Washington. Hes a fine Christian man. Hes not a religious man; hes a Christian man, Burchett went on. And, he continued, he doesnt cheat on his wife, and I find that very appealing in Washington, D.C. That comment elicited a laugh from Lawrence, but no follow-up. The last time a member of Congress made a comment like that during an interview, it was then-Rep. Madison Cawthornwho alleged, without naming names, that he had been invited to orgies and that he had seen lawmakers using cocaine in front of him. Two people are recovering from gunshot wounds after standing up to an armed robber on Saturday night in South Los Angeles, according to police. According to the Los Angeles Police Departments preliminary investigation, it was around 11:30 p.m. when the suspected robber walked up to two victims standing on a sidewalk in front of a church on the 1700 block of East 114th Street. The suspect, who LAPD later identified as 54-year-old Kevin Doby, allegedly used an AK-style rifle to demand the victims property. Officials did not immediately identify the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Doby was attempting to rob the two people at gunpoint, LAPD said the victims charged at him and took Doby to the ground. As the victims and suspect struggled over control of the gun, Southeast Patrol Division uniformed officers were conducting a regular patrol in the area and observed the group fighting, LAPD said in a release. As the officers got out of their car and approached the fight, one of the victims yelled, Hes got a gun! multiple times, according to the report. The officers called for backup and began giving numerous verbal orders to Doby, telling him to drop the gun, as he was still struggling with the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LAPD said as the victims attempted to break away from Doby, at least one officer opened fire. Doby then rearmed himself with the rifle and began to run when officers again opened fire. During the incident, the suspect was struck by the gunfire and dropped the rifle under a nearby parked car. The responding officers redeployed as backup units arrived and took Doby into custody without further incident. Doby was hit with gunfire and was transported to a hospital in stable condition before he was placed under arrest for armed robbery, according to LAPD. LAPD said it was later determined that the victims were also struck by gunfire during the shooting, and were taken to a different hospital where they were also listed in stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators found a loaded black and brown AK-style, .22 caliber rifle, and an approximately 3-inch folding knife and collected them as evidence. LAPD said no officers or other community members were injured during this incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. China's visa-free policy fuels surge in inbound tourism in 2024 People's Daily Online) 14:07, December 31, 2024 Thanks to the expansion of China's visa-free policy and the enhancement of payment services, the country has received an increasing number of international visitors in 2024. China's National Immigration Administration (NIA) announced on Dec. 17 a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the initial 72 hours and subsequent 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. The move, effective immediately, also included 21 additional ports designated for visa-free entry and exit, and an expansion of the areas in which transit travelers can stay. Foreign tourists enjoy a Hui Opera performance in Huangshan, east China's Anhui Province. (Photo/Shu Shaofei) Under the updated policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries, including Russia, Brazil, Britain, the United States, and Canada, can enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region. These travelers can enter through any of the 60 ports across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities and stay within the designated areas for up to 240 hours. China has implemented a complete mutual visa exemption for 25 countries and issued a unilateral visa-free policy for 38 countries. Liu Xiangyan, an associate researcher at the China Tourism Academy, said these unprecedented visa facilitation policies are a highlight of China's inbound tourism in 2024. According to statistics, in the third quarter of this year, foreigners made 8.19 million inbound trips to China, up 48.8 percent year on year. Of that number, 4.89 million trips were facilitated by the visa-free policy, surging 78.6 percent year on year. In the first 11 months, Chinese online travel agency Ctrip reported a nearly 120 percent year-on-year increase in bookings for inbound travel, with Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, the U.S., Thailand, Japan, Russia, Britain, Australia, and Indonesia being the main sources of tourists. On another Chinese online travel platform, Qunar, international bookings for domestic flights this year almost doubled from a year ago, with strong demand from American, Russian, Canadian, South Korean, and Australian passport holders. China's inbound tourism market has shown robust recovery this year, featuring more diverse tourism products. Tourism operators are rolling out innovative experiences that showcase the nation's traditional and modern culture, technological advancement, and local lifestyle. A foreign tourist takes a selfie at Sanya Phoenix International Airport in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province. (Photo/Chen Zhenhuang) Hu Jiying, deputy general manager of CYTS International Travel. Co., Ltd., said the company has launched specialized products like city-walk tours, cooking classes, and Tai Chi lessons for independent foreign travelers, along with traditional Chinese medicine experiences, intangible cultural heritage activities and Peking Opera cultural programs. China's multiple favorable policies implemented this year, including the guidelines to streamline payment services, have addressed problems in inbound tourism, making it more convenient for international tourists to travel in the country. Ctrip's international platform Trip.com has offered ticket services for over 11,000 domestic scenic spots for inbound travelers and installed ticket machines that support multilingual services and multiple payment methods at about 40 scenic spots. The platform also provides travel guides in multiple languages, covering everything from entry procedures to local transportation, along with foreigner-generated content for 20 popular destinations for inbound tourists like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Xi'an, and Zhangjiajie. (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) SYDNEY, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Health authorities in Victoria, Australia's second-most populous state, on Tuesday issued a high-risk warning after identifying a human case of a deadly mosquito-borne virus. The Department of Health in Victoria announced that a probable human case of Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been identified in a resident of the state's north. It is the first human case of JE virus -- a potentially deadly flavivirus related to dengue and yellow fever -- in Victoria during the current summer and has prompted a warning for people to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites. "The risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high in the coming weeks. Taking measures to avoid mosquito bites is critical to protect against infections," the alert issued by Victoria's Acting Chief Health Officer Christian McGrath said. According to the World Health Organization, one in 250 human infections with JE virus results in severe clinical illness. The virus can cause a rare infection of the brain that can lead to seizures, hearing or vision loss, paralysis or even death. The Victorian Department of Health alert said that residents of, and visitors to, communities along the Murray River in the state's north are potentially at higher risk of infection. It said that children aged five years and younger and the elderly are at higher risk of developing severe illness if they are infected with the JE virus. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) Before stepping down from the highest office in the state, N.C. Governor Roy Cooper (D) has taken actions of clemency, commutation and forgiveness on his last day in office. In total, he commuted 15 death penalties, commuted two other sentences and issued two pardons of forgiveness. The governors office said the moves come after thorough review by Cooper and experts from the Office of Executive Clemency and the Office of General Counsel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ensuring careful review of petitions for clemency is a responsibility I take seriously, said Governor Cooper. Each of these individuals is deserving of clemency as we continue our important work to protect our communities and improve the fairness of our criminal justice system. Commutations given to 2 convicted on murder charges The two who received commutations from Gov. Cooper were 54-year-old Brian Fuller and 63-year-old Joseph Bromfield. Fuller was convicted on two counts of second-degree murder in Rockingham County and has since served 27 years. According to the governors office, Fuller worked steadily while incarcerated and has also maintained a good disciplinary record. Bromfield was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder in Cumberland County and has been incarcerated for the past 34 years. In this more than three-decade period, Bromfield completed a college degree, worked steadily, and maintained a good disciplinary record, the governors office added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Gov. Coopers commutation decision, both Fuller and Bromfield have become immediately parole eligible. Whether and when their parole is granted is to be determined by the N.C. Post Release Supervision and Parole Commission. 15 commutations for those facing death penalty Fifteen people on the states death row are no longer facing the possibility of an execution. With this decision, Gov. Cooper said, it is among the most difficult decisions a governor can make and the death penalty is the most severe sentence that the state can impose. After reviewing, reflecting and praying on it, Gov. Cooper came to the decision that the death sentence imposed on these 15 people should be commuted. Their sentences now become life in prison without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historic Racial Justice Act hearing to begin in Johnston County for man on death row Hasson Bacote, 38, convicted in Johnston County in 2009. Iziah Barden, 67, convicted in Sampson County in 1999. Nathan Bowie, 53, convicted in Catawba County in 1993. Rayford Burke, 66, convicted in Iredell County in 1993. Elrico Fowler, 49, convicted in Mecklenburg County in 1997. Cerron Hooks, 46, convicted in Forsyth County in 2000. Guy LeGrande, 65, convicted in Stanly County in 1996. James Little, 38, convicted in Forsyth County in 2008. Robbie Locklear, 52, convicted in Robeson County in 1996. Lawrence Peterson, 55, convicted in Richmond County in 1996. William Robinson, 41, convicted in Stanly County in 2011. Christopher Roseboro, 60, convicted in Gaston County in 1997. Darrell Strickland, 66, convicted in Union County in 1995. Timothy White, 47, convicted in Forsyth County in 2000. Vincent Wooten, 52, convicted in Pitt County in 1994. Abraham Bonowitz, co-founder of Death Penalty Action, called the death sentence commutations a powerful message. He said, We dont need executions to hold accountable people who have committed horrible crimes, or to be safe from them. Death by incarceration is a better way to frame the sentence these men now face, and that is indeed appropriate in most of these cases. Pardons of forgiveness granted for 2 with drug convictions Two men who were convicted in 1984 and 2007 for crimes involving drugs have received full pardons from the governor. John (Jack) Campbell, who is now 63 years old, was convicted of selling cocaine in Wake County in 1984. In these past four decades, he has earned a college degree, owned a small business and has been supporting his family while remaining crime-free, the governors office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Wallace, 43, was convicted in Lee County on a charge of conspiracy to traffic cocaine and marijuana in 2007. In the 17 years since, Wallace has earned college and law degrees, been admitted to practice law and also served as president of his countys bar association. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Monday signed into law bills that touch on a range of policy areas from housing to human trafficking. Housing discrimination A trio of bills signed by Whitmer will soon make it illegal for a landlord in Michigan with five or more rental units to discriminate against current or prospective tenants based on their source of income. Senate Bill 205 prohibits landlords from refusing to lease to someone based on how they earn the money they use to pay their rent. Senate Bill 206 spells out that that those receiving housing assistance, veterans' benefits, Social Security and other kinds of benefits or subsidies would be covered by the new anti-discrimination provision. And finally, Senate Bill 207 updates the state's civil rights law to reflect the changes to the state's rental regulations. All three bills passed on party-line votes with every Democratic lawmaker supporting them against GOP opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whitmer said the new laws set to take effect in 2025 will reduce barriers to housing. "I am committed to growing access to affordable housing so every Michigander can raise their family in a vibrant community," Whitmer said in a statement Monday. Human trafficking Three other bills Senate Bills 515, 516 and 517 signed by Whitmer amend the state's criminal procedures to expand the testimony and evidence that can be used to prosecute human trafficking and prostitution. For instance, the legislation would allow evidence of prior acts of domestic violence, sexual assault, commercial sexual activity, human trafficking or prostitution to be used in prosecutions, according to a bill summary. The bills passed on a party-line vote in the Michigan House of Representatives with Democrats supporting the legislation, but they received wide bipartisan support in the Michigan Senate. Michigan was among the states with the highest number of human trafficking cases in the U.S. in 2023, according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Courtroom support dogs Whitmer also signed Senate Bill 248, which raises the age for child witnesses who can have a support dog in the courtroom from under 16 to under 18 years old. Courtroom support dogs are used to calm witnesses. The bill would also expand courtroom support dogs to include trained therapy dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill passed with bipartisan support in the Michigan House and Senate. Data center tax break Whitmer signed the first of two bills to provide tax breaks for data centers that warehouse computer servers. Senate Bill 237 approved by Whitmer exempts data center equipment from the state's use tax. Proponents tout the legislation as a way to lure the growing industry to the state. Environmentalists, meanwhile, have raised concerns about the impact the energy- and water-intensive facilities will have on Michigan and some Democratic lawmakers opposed giving a tax break to big technology companies. Another bill House Bill 4906 headed to Whitmer will provide a sales tax exemption for data centers. Michigan Legislature: Historic Democratic trifecta leaves profound disappointment in its wake More bills headed to Whitmer's desk The bills approved Monday follow others previously signed by Whitmer such as an unemployment expansion that emerged from the lame-duck session the legislative session following an election when outgoing and defeated lawmakers still wield power. Michigan Democrats will lose their majority in the state House next year after Republicans won control of the chamber in the November election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Republicans boycotted the end of the lame-duck session and state Rep. Karen Whitsett, D-Detroit, didn't attend the final House session days, denying House Democrats the quorum they needed to pass bills without GOP support and essentially killing major bills on a range of issues from voting rights to policing. Despite the unceremonious ending to lame duck, dozens of bills from the post-election period of lawmaking still await Whitmer's signature. Contact Clara Hendrickson: chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: New law says landlords can't reject people with housing assistance Dec. 30Gov. Janet Mills has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff across Maine through late January, honoring the nation's 39th president, Jimmy Carter, in the wake of his death. United States and Maine state flags will be lowered through Jan. 28, Mills' office said in a statement Monday. Carter died Sunday at his home in Georgia after a lengthy stay in hospice care. At 100, Carter was the oldest-ever former U.S. president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an earlier statement issued shortly after Carter's death was announced, Mills said he "led a remarkable life centered around service to others." "He was the moral conscience of a nation whose words and deeds demonstrated that the human capacity for kindness and goodness is limitless," Mills said. "America has lost a true model of servant leadership. On behalf of the people of Maine, I extend my deepest sympathies to the Carter family." Mills' order follows U.S. flag code, which stipulates that flags be flown at half-staff for a period of 30 days following the death of a former president. President Joe Biden declared Jan. 9 a national day of mourning. In a statement, Biden noted Carter's postpresidential history as a human rights icon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Following his Presidency, President Carter advanced an agenda that elevated the least among us," Biden said. "Guided by an unwavering belief in the power of human goodness and the Godgiven dignity of every human being, he worked tirelessly around the globe to broker peace; eradicate disease; house the homeless; and protect human rights, freedom, and democracy." Many in Maine celebrated when Carter turned 100 in October, recalling visits during the campaign and after he landed in the White House. Carter visited Maine several times during his presidency, including staying with a family in Bangor in 1978 to campaign for U.S. Sen. Bill Hathaway. Years earlier, during the 1976 campaign, Carter hosted a luncheon at a motel in Portland. Copy the Story Link Police unravel crime scene tape. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images.) Among the dozens of measures sitting on Ohio Gov. Mike DeWines desk, is one proposal that would allow police departments to charge $75 per hour of body camera footage with a cap of $750. The provision showed up late as part of House Bill 315 a measure originally meant to revise Ohio Township laws, like allowing public notices to be published digitally or for trustees to establish preservation commissions. But in the last-minute rush, that bill wound up as a lifeboat for only loosely connected proposals unlikely to pass on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The township bill, for instance, includes a provision defining antisemitism and another giving the Secretary of State greater latitude in disciplining notaries. Both changes crib from similar measures that didnt quite make it. The public records changes, however, came out of left field. No previous piece of legislation sought to codify the right of law enforcement agencies to take their time reviewing, redacting and producing video footage or specifying the cost those agencies could charge for their efforts. Gov. Mike DeWine has yet to take action on the bill, but in a press conference he expressed sympathy for small police agencies. Pressed on the potential ramifications of making it more costly and time consuming to get video after incidents like police shootings, DeWine insisted he has yet to decide on the bill. But he argued the changes arent a question of whether and how fast the public can access records, but rather as a matter of public policy, are we going to require some reimbursement for that? What the changes look like The proposal gives cover to law enforcement agencies in terms of the time and cost of producing video records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. DeWines concerns about reimbursement notwithstanding, Ohio law already allows agencies to charge requesters the actual cost of copying and mailing public records. What current law doesnt allow is for agencies to bill requesters for staff time. The latest proposal changes that. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Under the measure, law enforcement agencies would be allowed to charge the cost of reviewing, blurring or otherwise obscuring, redacting, uploading, or producing video records up to $75 for each hour of video provided. The measure also places an overall cap of $750 per request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the bill directs courts to weigh the time involved in preparing video for release when considering whether an agency is providing records in a reasonable amount of time as required by law. There are a handful of other administrative hurdles built in, too. Like current law, agencies can ask for payment of actual costs up front, but under the current proposal agencies can demand prepayment of an estimate before beginning work on a request. If the actual cost is higher they can charge as much as 20% more. The bill is silent on what happens if the actual cost is less. The provision also gives agencies extra time to act. They could take as much as five business days simply to produce the cost estimate. Pushback The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus issued a statement urging the governor to use a line-item veto on the police video provisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Terrence Upchurch, D-Cleveland, argued Taxpayers have already funded these cameras and footage. Charging additional fees for access is wrong and undermines transparency. The OLBC president insisted the changes would disproportionately affect Black and minority communities. When families seek answers or communities demand accountability, these records provide clarity, Upchurch said. Charging the public for access erodes trust and justice. Several government watchdog groups including the Ohio branches of the ACLU, Common Cause and the NAACP sent DeWine a letter urging him to veto the changes. In addition to opposing the policy, they criticized the measure on procedural grounds too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They argued it was amended into the bill at the very end of the legislative session with zero notice to the public. As a result, the letter continued, Ohioans had no opportunity to air concerns, to discuss these changes with lawmakers and other stakeholders, or to formally appear as witnesses before a committee(s), as would happen during the normal legislative process. The groups argued vetoing the provisions wouldnt necessarily close the door on the issue either. Your veto will still allow legislators, if they wish, to pursue these changes, they wrote, but instead with an open, deliberative, and cooperative process. This would allow Ohioans to properly express their opinions and concerns without such sudden and secretive changes with huge impacts on policing and the publics right to know. Follow OCJ Reporter Nick Evans on Twitter. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Gov. Roy Cooper (File Photo) Governor Roy Cooper commuted the sentences of 15 death row inmates to life without possibility of parole on New Years Eve following five years of vigils outside the governors mansion and a two-year sustained campaign to grant clemency to all inmates sentenced to death. The commutations came as inmates in North Carolina face a ticking clock on the death penalty, which has been on hold for nearly 20 years amid challenges to the punishments legality. Should the courts in North Carolina rule against those challenges, executions could resume with haste, as dozens of the states death row inmates have exhausted all other avenues for appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While falling short of the request to commute all death sentences in North Carolina, Coopers action reduced the number of pending death sentences in the state from 136 to 121. Cooper also issued two non-death penalty commutations and two pardons of forgiveness Tuesday afternoon, bringing him to a total of 34 pardons and 43 commutations in office the most extensive use of clemency powers by any North Carolina governor in the 21st century. These reviews are among the most difficult decisions a Governor can make and the death penalty is the most severe sentence that the state can impose, Cooper said in a statement. After thorough review, reflection, and prayer, I concluded that the death sentence imposed on these 15 people should be commuted, while ensuring they will spend the rest of their lives in prison. Prior to this announcement, only five death sentences had ever been commuted in the state since the introduction of the modern death penalty all in the eleventh hour before execution. With no executions scheduled, Coopers act of clemency is the first of its kind in the state. Notably, all but one of the clemency recipients are people of color, which advocates said was significant due to racial bias in the administration of the death penalty. The states death row the fifth-largest in the country was more than 60 percent people of color prior to the commutations. Hasson Bacote in a photo taken at Central Prison in Raleigh, where North Carolinas death row for men is located. (Photo courtesy of the Center for Death Penalty Litigation.) Coopers actions follow a wave of clemency grants around the country to death row inmates, even as Americans attitudes around criminal justice have hardened under Joe Bidens presidency. In 2022, Oregon Governor Kate Brown emptied death row in her state when she pardoned the last 17 inmates sentenced to death. Earlier this month, Biden granted clemency to all but three federal death row inmates as President-elect Donald Trump seeks to resume executions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those whose sentences Cooper commuted was Hasson Bacote, 38, a Black man who was sentenced to death in 2009 and who became the lead plaintiff in Bacote v. North Carolina, a case challenging the legality of the death penalty in the state on the basis of the Racial Justice Act. The law, though repealed in 2013, allowed death row inmates who could show race played a role in their trials to challenge their sentences. This decision is a historic step towards ending the death penalty in North Carolina, but the fight for justice does not end here, said Cassandra Stubbs, the director of the American Civil Liberties Unions Capital Punishment Project. We remain hopeful that the court will issue a ruling under the states Racial Justice Act in Mr. Bacotes case that we can leverage for relief for the many others that still remain on death row. The ACLU and other advocacy groups have argued that racial bias plays an inescapable role in administration of the death penalty and as such, all such sentences in the state should be struck down. Though Bacote was granted clemency for his original sentence, his counsel still anticipate a ruling on the case. Signs along Jones Street in Raleigh call for clemency for Cerron Hooks and Nathan Bowie, two recipients of commutations Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of Kristie Puckett.) Noel Nickle, the executive director of the North Carolina Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, said she felt gratitude and determination upon seeing the announcement. She felt quite emotional reading the 15 names as each represents a person and a life no longer facing execution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are just indebted to Governor Cooper for taking this bold step, one that no North Carolina governor has ever taken before, and we believe that it sets a course for us to continue our work to dismantle this systemically racist, brutal system, Nickle said. Kristie Puckett, an organizer with Forward Justice, said it is a great day for those who received clemency as well as their advocates and she hopes Coopers act of mercy sets a precedent for future governors to take similar steps, including Governor-elect Josh Stein, who takes office on Jan. 1. We have to continue to push for the rest of those folks and so 121 folks left on death row still need to have consideration and to have care, Puckett said. Everyone needs an opportunity to have a redo, an opportunity to show that theyve changed, or that redemption is possible. The full list of death row inmates whose sentences were commuted to life without possibility of parole include: It wasnt that Robert A. Milan II couldnt get arrested; he could and did, at least as far back as 1997, and he has been sent to prison in Kansas several times, on sex, gun and drug distribution charges. In 2016, a judge in Clay County granted an order of protection to a woman who reported that hed been stalking her, and in 2019, he left the scene of an accident that had caused severe injuries. But in recent years, prosecutors and judges in Wyandotte County have given him one last chance after another. And as even Milan, now 47, acknowledged in an interview in the Wyandotte County Jail on Saturday night, the failure to hold him accountable didnt help him at all; on the contrary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a column last February, after he had been offered probation in return for pleading guilty to two counts of the aggravated battery of his former partner, I asked whether Milan was getting special treatment because he is the son of Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Duprees fellow KCK pastor, Robert L. Milan, and the grandson of the influential former Kansas City Board of Public Utilities president and longtime board member Robert L. Milan, Sr. A registered sex offender since he was 19, Milan was already on probation when Alisha Murphy reported that hed broken her arm three times. Prosecutors yes, the DAs office, as well as Milans defense attorney said in court that they were recommending probation instead of prison despite Milans long criminal history because of inconsistencies in Murphys account. I am used to hearing defense attorneys speak about victims of domestic violence that way, but not prosecutors. When it was her turn to speak, Murphy tried to explain some of these supposed inconsistencies to the judge. For instance, shed initially told the 911 operator that shed hurt herself by falling into a wall. He was standing right over me, Murphy told me, and Im lucky he even allowed me to call an ambulance. But she had too much to set straight in too little time, and so went back to reading her victims impact statement. I never thought Id make it this far Milans attorney, Debera Erickson, told the court at that March sentencing hearing, Mr. Milan does have a drug problem. He is addressing that problem. He has maintained sobriety. Hes had drug treatment before. He wants the drug treatment. OK, said Judge Michael Russell, sold. And really, with no lawyer representing the victims interest, Im not sure how he could have decided otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Milan almost immediately violated the terms of his probation, according to a May court report, by telling a counselor attempting to do a treatment assessment that he hadnt used since 2013. This despite having tested positive for drug use six times just in March and April. Now, after violating the terms of his probation many times, according to court records, Milan has finally had his probation revoked, and has spent the last three weeks in the Wyandotte County Jail. Hell be there for 60 days in all, or until a treatment bed opens up. He had to try hard to get there, testing positive for drug use seven times, according to a report from his probation officer, and not turning up for testing another 11 times. He also, according to the same report, which was filed with the court in September, has yet to engage in outpatient treatment as recommended, has done only eight of the required 40 hours of community service, has not paid anything on the $313 he owes in court costs and has not had a job since August. The woman he pleaded guilty to battering was sent to jail for 60 days the first time she was found to have violated the terms of her probation with a single dirty drug test in 2023, on a 2022 burglary charge, though she had the same judge and the same probation officer. So how is what Milan got not special treatment? Dupree and his spokesman, Jonathan Carter, did not answer messages asking that question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I visited Milan in jail last Saturday night the only time those housed in his pod can have visits I asked him if he thought hed been treated any differently because of his family connections. You are not allowed to take anything into the jail with you, so I could not take notes until immediately afterward, and will mostly be paraphrasing what Milan said in our 50-minute interview. No, he said at first, he doesnt think he got any special treatment. Or if he did, he quickly added, it wasnt because of anything he ever asked for. One judge who said how much his family had done for the community was taken off one of his cases, he said. Later in our conversation, Milan volunteered that he knows some people get more chances than they know what to do with, while others who deserve a second chance never get it. And that for sure is true. His dad, he said, has impressed on him that he now has to show the prosecutors and judge that they were right to give him this most recent reprieve for real the last one, Milan told me. Despite what his attorney said in court, Milan said hes never had any drug treatment of any kind before. And his father, he said, is even more excited than he is that hes finally going to get some help. Any parent would be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I f***ed up, he said, and if he fs up again, he told me multiple times, then he knows that hes going back to prison. Hes known for the longest time that it had to come to this, too, because otherwise he was going to die on the street. Im too old for this, he said. I never thought Id make it this far. He also said this: The drugs arent me. But for a long time, they have been. As for the underlying battery charges, to which he pleaded guilty, he said, Im not 100% innocent, but shes not 100% honest. Repeatedly, he said Alisha Murphy lied on me and asked, if he had really done all that he was accused of, why she would have kept coming back. Hes never been violent, he insisted, with her or with anyone. Victim on trial All of that, as he himself offered, unprompted, is pretty standard stuff from someone in his position. And it is, of course, right down to his insistence that all he ever did was push Murphy, after she started a fight out of jealousy. Her extensive medical records suggest otherwise. She ended up having surgery to repair her arm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What does stun me, though, in reading the transcript of Milans sentencing hearing, is the extent to which it was Murphy who was really on trial. She was accused, among other things, of seeking medical treatment only to get painkillers. As she freely admits, she was an addict, too, until she went to jail for those two months last year, which she says saved her life in two ways: She got clean. And she believes that he would have killed me otherwise. She scoffs at the idea that her true goal in seeking medical treatment was getting her hands on some painkillers: Those are downers and I did uppers. In hospitals, they dont even have the kind of drugs I would have abused. Milan says he has been struggling with drugs for 15 or 20 years and using longer than that. And any favors he did get only hurt him and those around him, and so did no one any favors. On Aug. 13, Milan hit someone bigger and stronger, someone who hit him back so hard that he wound up in KU Medical Center with a cracked skull and a brain bleed. I talked to the man involved, Donald Burrow. He said Milan hit me in my head when I wasnt looking and we had a fight at Burrows home. He accused me of losing his job at Hardees, where they were coworkers, but he really lost that job, as Burrow sees it, because he was bringing a lot of food home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If it wasnt for cameras outside my house that captured the whole fight and proved that hed acted in self-defense, Burrow said, Id be in jail right now. Milan said someone had slipped some fentanyl in something else hed taken that night, so he doesnt remember anything that happened. I told him what I think, which is that if he had been required to get treatment before now, rather than just having it recommended, and had otherwise been held accountable instead of getting let off the hook over and over, then maybe hed never have picked that fight, and neither he nor Donald Burrow would have been injured. I see what youre saying, he told me. Whether thats true or not, he says hes glad to be where he is now, and feels better after these last three weeks off the street, even though jail sucks. Hes heard hell be getting a treatment bed any day, and is looking forward to that. Would he ever have gotten treatment on his own? He didnt claim that he would have. This makes it easier, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I write a lot about people behind bars who should not be there, either because they are innocent or over-sentenced, especially for something they did when they were very young or when they were victims themselves. Or both. But that doesnt mean that public safety concerns arent legitimate, because they are. That holds true even when they involve the offspring of friends, who sometimes need protection from themselves. I used to find the criminal justice system so capricious in offering, as Robert Milan himself observed, so many breaks to some and none to others. But no, its instead painfully predictable. I certainly hope Milan makes the most of this supposed last chance. But I also believe he should have gotten it a long time ago. A priest who was fired because he wanted to work from home was unfairly dismissed by his diocese. Father Stavros Bozos told bosses he should not have to go to work because the church computer was at his home and the commute would be a waste of time, an employment tribunal heard. It was told that during the pandemic, the orthodox priest of 18 years had not fulfilled his duties after he refused to conduct services for feasts on days other than Sundays when Covid lockdown restrictions were lifted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being uncooperative and defensive in meetings where concerns were raised, he was eventually sacked. Despite finding Fr Bozos had been evasive when challenged and reluctant to make himself available for parishioners, he won his claim of unfair dismissal. The judge said his sacking was justified, but still awarded him more than 2,200 in compensation because no dismissal procedure was followed. The Leeds tribunal was told he worked at the citys Three Hierarchs Orthodox Church having moved over from Greece in 2018, until his dismissal in 2022. It was heard Fr Bozos responsibilities in his role for the Greek Orthodox Community included providing spiritual and pastoral care, being registrar for weddings, baptisms and funerals, and conducting church services during the week and on Sundays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, when giving evidence he implied it was his decision as the priest to decide when services were to be carried out. It was heard that after lockdown restrictions were lifted, Fr Bozos was not fulfilling the duties that were expected of him, particularly by failing to provide regular catechism at the Greek school. Controlling and uncooperative Fr Bozos claimed he had not been present at the church because the community computer was at his house, it would be exhausting for him and it would put a strain on his family with the commute stopping him working some hours. He did not accept the requirement to spend more time at the church in order to be readily available for parishioners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a further January 2022 meeting, more concerns were raised of him being controlling and uncooperative but he presented a report dismissing their complaints. Giving evidence, the priest claimed complaints including not conducting services for feasts on days other than Sundays were not credible because there was no statistical evidence. However, the tribunal heard he did not provide divine liturgy classes between January and March 2022, despite the issue having been raised with him. It was heard he even made efforts to restrict his parishioners access to him by limiting unplanned face to face contact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, by March 2022, the diocese concluded the relationship with him had deteriorated to the point they felt he could not continue in post. The tribunal heard the diocese wanted a divorce preferably with consent but was prepared for an acrimonious one. Having effectively made up their collective mind to sack him, the archbishop informed Fr Bozos of this in May 2022. However, the priest then took to social media to announce his ousting. Of the 600-membership parish, 32 signed a petition calling for a meeting to discuss his position. Obdurate and evasive Rejecting his claims of wrongful dismissal, employment judge Hannah Bright said the deterioration between Fr Bozos and his employer was so significant it could only result in a total rupture of the relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She ruled church services and other events should have taken place at times that were most convenient to the community rather than solely to suit the priest or at his convenience. The judge said he had been obdurate and evasive when challenged and had been reluctant to make himself available for parishioners. However, he won his claim of unfair dismissal because the diocese genuinely did not understand he was technically their employee due to the unusual arrangement between the Greek Church and the British-based charity. The community conceded no proper dismissal procedure was followed because of this. As a result, he was awarded 2,232 in compensation. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) The Greensboro Police Department has released plans for the funeral of one of their officers who was killed in the line of duty. On Monday, Greensboro Police Department shared the plans for Officer Michael Horans funeral on their Facebook page. Monday marks 1 year since Sgt. Dale Nix of Greensboro Police Department was killed According to the department, a public funeral service will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, at 2 p.m. The service will take place at Westover Church, located at 505 Muirs Chapel Road. Space will be a first-come, first-serve basis, so if any member of the public wishes to attend, theyre encouraged to come early. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those who cannot make it, Westover Church will be livestreaming the event on their website. More information will be available on Westover Churchs website. Horan was shot and killed on Dec. 23, responding to a call at the Food Lion on Lawndale Drive. Tarell Isaac McMillian is accused of shooting Horan and was charged with first-degree murder after a chase through multiple counties. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. MUAN, South Korea Outside South Koreas Muan International Airport, the smell of jet fuel is still in the air, days after a passenger jet belly-landed and skidded off the end of the runway, erupting into a fireball. Inside the departures terminal, dozens of yellow and beige tents have been set up for relatives to sleep in as rescuers search the wreckage for the bodies of their loved ones. No one wants to leave as the agonizing identification process takes place. It could take weeks or even months to identify the bodies of the 175 passengers and four crew members who were killed when Jeju Air Flight 2216 from Bangkok came down at around 9 a.m. local time Sunday (7 p.m. ET Saturday). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Astonishingly, two flight attendants at the back of the plane survived, one reportedly asking doctors later what happened and why am I here? Lee Dong-Suk, who lost his aunt and uncle in the crash, told NBC News on Monday that he thought the government should work faster to identify the bodies and provide families with more information. At first, the government told us that they found the bodies and that they were making efforts towards identifying them. So we waited and waited because they did not tell us how long we had to wait, where to wait and what to do, he said. So, it became an endless waiting with no end in sight for us. Firefighters carry the body of a passenger from the wreckage at Muan International Airport on Sunday. Honestly, I cannot accept what has happened and that they died. I feel like I am dreaming, he said, adding that he was focusing on caring for his grieving family members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My turn to allow the feelings of profound loss to get to me is only when I am alone at night, he said. I might be able to accept the reality when I see their photos during the funeral procession. How can you accept that it was only a week ago that they left you saying they are going on a nice trip but that they will never return home, he added. In the makeshift tent community, the sound of snores is clearly audible in the evenings. Others sleep where they can, on chairs or the ground. During the day, children play with their toys and teenagers huddle together on their cellphones. Grief and exhaustion show plainly on their faces. Lawyers are also on site offering their legal advice to families free of charge and officials have set up a briefing area where they provide updates to the families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the nearby Muan Sports Park, a public memorial has been set up for people to pay their respects to the victims. Volunteers handed a white Chrysanthemum and white gloves to each person walking into the gymnasium where an altar displaying the names of every identified victim was surrounded by ornate wreaths. Kim Yung-Rok, the governor of Jeollanamdo Province where Muan is based, solemnly greeted the visitors. I cried when I met with the bereaved families, he said, I realized that there were no words to console the depth of their despair. He added that the crash had come as a terrific shock to both the people of Muan and the entire country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the passengers were not on business trips but family trips and so it hurts even more. People lost not only one but two, three, four or even more than five family members in this one plane accident, he said. U.S. investigators Back at the airport, the search continues with American investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board joining their South Korean counterparts Tuesday. Wearing full hazmat suits in the freezing cold temperatures, they search through the charred, blacked wreckage, aided by a large crane. The American team arrived at the scene the day after acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok ordered an emergency safety inspection of the countrys entire airline operation. The countrys National Police Agency also said it was making all-out efforts to speed identification of the bodies, by allocating more personnel and equipment such as rapid DNA analyzers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is still no definitive answer on what exactly caused the crash, but two black boxes retrieved from the aircraft the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder were transferred to a test center Monday morning. Yu Kyung-soo, director of aviation safety policy at South Koreas Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, or MOLIT, said in a briefing Monday that the pilot issued a bird strike warning, used to alert a collision between at least one bird and an aircraft, shortly before the crash. The pilot then declared mayday, Yu said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com One of the first inmates to be detained at the notorious US-run Guantanamo Bay prison has been transferred home to Tunisia after being held for almost 23 years at the facility in Cuba, according to the Pentagon. US Secretary of Defense informed Congress in January about his intent to support the repatriation of Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi following rigorous review, the Pentagon said on Monday. The ministry did not provide further details on the repatriation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to US media reports, al-Yazidi, 59, was detained by Pakistani security forces near the border with Afghanistan in December 2001 and had been imprisoned at Guantanamo since the detention facility was opened in January 2002. He was reportedly held without charge. His repatriation to Tunisia was first initiated some 10 years ago, according to the reports. It comes after three other Guantanamo inmates were also reportedly repatriated this month. The Guantanamo Bay detention camp is a US military prison within a US naval base in Cuba established by the George W. Bush administration following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to hold suspected Islamist terrorists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point, almost 800 people were held at the facility which has been condemned internationally for denying inmates their right to fair legal trial as well as human rights violations. Despite calls from human rights organizations for its closure, a total of 26 detainees are still being held at Guantanamo, with 14 deemed eligible for transfer, according to the Pentagon. Outgoing US President Joe Biden had announced plans to close Guantanamo when taking office but was prevented from doing so in Congress. His successor Donald Trump is in favour of keeping the facility open. SANAA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A series of airstrikes hit Yemen's capital Sanaa on Tuesday afternoon, targeting military sites under Houthi control, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported. Two of the airstrikes hit the Defense Ministry building and other areas in downtown Sanaa, while the rest struck the 1st Armor Division and an ammunition manufacturing complex in the city center, said al-Masirah TV without elaborating further. Ambulances were seen rushing to the scenes, as Houthi forces cordoned off the targeted sites. Residents reported that the powerful airstrikes rocked the whole city, with some houses near the targeted sites being partially damaged. Dozens of Houthi fighters are believed to have been present at these sites when the strikes took place, but the Houthi group rarely discloses its casualties or losses. The airstrikes came a few hours after the Houthi group claimed in the morning responsibility for overnight missile attacks targeting the Ben Gurion airport in Israel's Tel Aviv and a power station south of Jerusalem, as well as rocket and drone attacks at U.S. aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman. Following the violent airstrikes, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement on social media platform X, saying its forces have conducted multiple precision strikes since Monday against Houthi targets in Sanaa and Houthi-controlled coastal regions in Yemen. "On Dec. 30 and 31, U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon (ACW) production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV)," it said. CENTCOM claimed these facilities were used in Houthi operations, including attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. It added U.S. Navy and Air Force aircraft also destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site and seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea. There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment in either incident, CENTCOM noted, alleging these strikes are part of its efforts to degrade Houthi capacities to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region. The Houthi group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been launching regular rocket and drone attacks against Israel and disrupting "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023, to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their ongoing conflict with Israelis. In response, the U.S.-led naval coalition stationed in the area has regularly conducted air raids and strikes against Houthi targets to deter the group, prompting the Houthis to expand attacks to include U.S. warships. Now that the 2024 election is over, journalists are admitting they missed the biggest story in American politics 81-year-old President Joe Bidens decline prior to the June presidential debate. The event marked the beginning of the end for Biden, who gave a hoarse, rambling, and incoherent performance, and withdrew from the race weeks later. Bidens refusal to withdraw from the presidential race until July is now widely considered one of the main reasons that Democrats lost to Donald Trump again in November, and many journalists and observers now wonder whether the results of the election would have been different if Bidens competence had been widely interrogated sooner. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that, while presidents always have gatekeepers the Biden White House has, throughout his term in office, placed limits over who Biden spoke with, limits on what they said to him, and limits around the sources of information he consumed. But for much of Bidens presidency, there was little reporting about his mental acuity. On CBS Face the Nation on Sunday, chief legal correspondent Jan Crawford called Bidens cognitive decline undercovered and underreported something that became undeniable in the televised debate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people who viewed Bidens debate with Trump speculated that the president was exhibiting signs of sundowning, a symptom of dementia in which a person enters into a state of confusion at night. We should have much more forcefully questioned whether he was fit for office for another four years, which could have led to a primary for the Democrats, Crawford said. It could have changed the scope of the entire election. In Semafors annual list of things that members of the media got wrong this year, several more journalists and pundits acknowledged missing Bidens decline. I thought Joe Biden was going to prove his doubters wrong at the big debate, said blogger Matt Yglesias. I know that ever since that humiliation the whole world thinks the entire media was in on a massive coverup, but the fact is many of us (and seemingly many members of his team) genuinely thought the situation was better than it was. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that its more embarrassing to have been gullible and wrong when so many people with no sources and no inside info could see it clearly, but thats what happened. Journalist Josh Barro similarly admitted he missed Bidens decline, too. I was shocked and appalled by [Bidens] performance in the June 27 debate, but I shouldnt have been as surprised as I was, Barro said, adding that he had put too much stock in his satisfactory scripted performances and misread the presidents avoidance of unscripted settings as a (misguided) effort to keep him on-message rather than a sign that he was incapable of engaging in them in the way he did not very long ago. He added that people close to Biden have essentially been engaged in elder abuse. Mehdi Hasan, editor-in-chief and CEO of Zeteo, said that 2024 was the year I posted my wrongest ever tweet. The post on X read: I think Republicans will regret setting the bar so low for Biden, and helping spread the distorted image of him as a guy who is totally out of it, suffering from dementia, no grip on reality, no ability to speak. A very low bar for him to clear tonight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden did not clear that bar: A few hours later, he was promising to beat Medicare, Hasan continued. (Biden meant to say he beat Big Pharma, per a spokesperson.) Hasan added, Like many others, I was completely, utterly, totally, embarrassingly wrong about Bidens lack of mental competence. (But I remain right about Trumps!) Talk show host Brian Lehrer shared Hasans sentiments: Many callers to my show said Joe Biden was in no shape to run for reelection. I mostly dismissed it as ageism. Then I watched the debate, he said. Well never know what could have been but Bidens debate performance, his subsequent withdrawal, and Harris election loss all suggest that the media should have covered Bidens health more closely, much sooner. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Habitat for Humanity leadership shares the incredible impact former President Jimmy Carter has made with their Northwest Arkansas chapter and countless families. Former President Jimmy Carter has a long list of lifetime accomplishments. His work with Habitat for Humanity truly put the nonprofit on the map and was his passion project. The Northwest Arkansas chapter has been active, building nearly 150 homes over the last three decades. Even though the dozens of local families living in habitat homes may have never met the former president, they greatly appreciate his passion for this non-profit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You just feel connected with him at a deeper level, whether you met him or not in person or worked with him, just knowing that the organization that you support was so strongly supported by an amazing man like President Carter, Habitat for Humanity NWA CEO Ashley Wheeler said. Since first learning of President Carters passing Sunday afternoon, the work he carried out for the nonprofit, hasnt left Wheelers mind. Duck hunting & campaigning: Former President Jimmy Carters connections to Arkansas We were actually here in the office just thinking about him this morning, and the work that hes done, and we found this picture thats been hanging on the walls of the Washington County Legacy affiliate, Wheeler said. Its Jimmy Carter and former President Bill Clinton working together on a Habitat for Humanity build. Were swelling with pride just knowing about the impact that they had, specifically Jimmy Carter, especially here in Northwest Arkansas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was not uncommon to see the former president on build sites, helping frame some of the thousands of homes habitat builds each year around the country. His name alone brought attention and helped local chapters everywhere, including Northwest Arkansas. They often frequently went to job sites around the world to work side by side with volunteers and all sorts of climates and conditions. They just felt passionate about the organization and its mission, helping folks become homeowners, Wheeler said. Bill Clinton, Arkansas lawmakers react to the death of former President Jimmy Carter Were definitely saddened by the news. Its really drawn us in and gave us the opportunity to reflect on the work that hes done, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, even though Carter did not start the nonprofit, Wheeler thinks his drive and purpose to help others, was inspirational, drawing attention to the nonprofit internationally. The popularity and reputation that Habitat for Humanity has currently in the world really goes back to President Carter and Rosalynns involvement in Habitat for Humanity. They were the original champions that put habitat for humanity on the map, Wheeler said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Dec. 31With less than a month to go before the Jan. 24 filing deadline, only six candidates have expressed formal interest in running for six of the Anchorage Assembly seats up for grabs in April. One of those candidates recently indicated on social media that he has reconsidered. South Anchorage member Randy Sulte, whose first term ends in the spring, is not running again. The six seats represent half of the Assembly's 12 members. Two of the candidates who have filed official letters of intent with the Alaska Public Offices Commission are incumbents: Daniel Volland and Kameron Perez-Verdia of the North Anchorage and West Anchorage districts, respectively. If they win, it will be Volland's second term and Perez-Verdia's third, the maximum allowed under municipal rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several current members have opted not to run for reelection. Karen Bronga ran in 2023 to fill out the remaining two years of Forrest Dunbar's term and represented East Anchorage after Dunbar was elected to the state Senate. She announced in September she did not plan on running again and simultaneously endorsed a potential successor, Yarrow Silvers, a writer and activist. So far, Silvers is the lone candidate for the seat, according to APOC records. It is a similar dynamic for the seat representing Eagle River. Mark Littlefield was elected in April to finish out the last year of former member Kevin Cross' term after Cross said he was resigning. Littlefield said Monday he will not run again. The only person who has registered intent to run for the seat is Jared Goecker, who ran for the Alaska Senate as a Republican in November and lost to incumbent Kelly Merrick, also a Republican. Assembly Vice Chair Meg Zaletel of the Midtown district is not running for a third term. Erin Baldwin Day, who has a background as a community organizer, policy advocate and pastor, is campaigning for the seat. Nobody else has filed to run for it. There is currently no candidate for the open South Anchorage seat, a huge area extending from Dimond Boulevard across the Hillside and all the way to Girdwood. Sulte, who was elected in 2022, is no longer eligible for the seat after district boundaries were redrawn that same year. His residence is now technically part of West Anchorage. Sulte said he plans to leave the body once his term ends rather than run against Perez-Verdia in a part of town he's less familiar with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm happy with the changes I've seen on the Assembly," Sulte said Monday. "I think people are putting their party lines aside more." In 2022, Sulte was the lone challenger elected to the body in a cycle when a slate of insurgents went up against sitting Assembly members who were regularly at odds with then-Mayor Dave Bronson during the first year of his term. Races that year were unprecedentedly expensive and acrimonious, with city politics still roiling from fights over pandemic lockdowns, business closures and mask mandates. A similar dynamic played out in 2023, with huge levels of campaign spending that ultimately changed the Assembly's political composition very little. In 2024, local political attention was on the mayor's race, which ultimately went to a runoff between Bronson and former South Anchorage Assembly member Suzanne LaFrance, who won. Littlefield's race to fill out Cross' term was the only Assembly seat on that year's ballot, and as he was the lone candidate it was hardly competitive. A sixth resident, Robert Rubey, filed an intent letter with the state to run for the West Anchorage seat. However, in a Facebook post earlier in December, Rubey said that the expanded scope of Assembly members' work in recent years made it impossible for him to square that with his job obligations. Rubey did not return messages Monday seeking clarification on plans for his potential candidacy. The official window for candidates to file paperwork with the municipal clerk's office is Jan. 10 to Jan. 24. Ballots for the municipal election will be sent out in mid-March. The final day to submit ballots will be April 1. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Folks locally ushered in the sixth night of Hanukkah with menorah lightings hosted by the Chabad of Pittsford. The first one took place in Penfield at Four Corners with town officials and childrens goody bags. The second at the Victor Town Hall with all kinds of Hanukkah treats. Monday, Rabbi Yitzi Hein talked about the importance of day six in the holiday. Bills Mafia teams up with Chabad of Pittsford for fifth night of Hanukkah Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Day is five is when light took over darkness, day six is when theres momentum for light to keep snowballing and the good guys have the upper hand and theyre winning, said Rabbi Yitzi Hein. Everybody should have a warm and happy Hanukkah. Light the menorah in your house and from there to the world. Tuesday public lightings are scheduled to take a pause, and end Wednesday at Mendon Town Hall at 4:30 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. TEQUESTA Harry Chandler, a Tequesta resident who was one of the last remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, died Monday, Dec. 30 his family said. He was 103. "We are gutted by this loss of our Pappy, but comforted by the fact few have lived on earth as fully and long as he did and now he is with many who passed before him," his family said in a prepared statement. "His Anna, friends and family, his friends and shipmates welcomed him with open arms." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chandler was one of the longest-living survivors of Japan's Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Hawaii that effectively launched the U.S. into World War II. He was a Navy hospital corpsman who saw some of the nation's most storied battleships the U.S.S. Arizona, the U.S.S. Oklahoma, the U.S.S. Nevada be hit or struggle to stay afloat. 'Healing happened': Two-war vet triumphs over painful memories on Honor Flight trip to DC Chandler shared his memories of that day in a January 2024 interview with The Palm Beach Post. He had dropped out of high school to enlist and spent the next 38 years in the military, six of them on active duty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He recalled hoisting the American flag on the lawn at 'Aiea Heights, an area just north of the harbor when the first Japanese planes flew overhead. He said he thought they were U.S. planes arriving in Hawaii from the mainland, until the bombs began to rain down. "I saw the Arizona (blow) up and then I saw the Oklahoma capsizing and Nevada trying to take off into the opening to get out of the harbor," Chandler said. "It was unbelievable. I couldn't understand what was happening until I saw the sunburst on the (plane) wings and I knew we were being attacked by Japan." 'We need to honor them': Unclaimed ashes of 20 South Florida veterans get proper interment Japanese planes wreaked havoc on 19 warships and 300 aircraft and killed more than 2,400 American servicemen in less than 90 minutes, according to the National World War II Museum. Nearly half of the people killed that day were USS Arizona crewmen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chandler said his corpsman training kicked in, and he spent the day trying to help sailors who were in the harbor. I was just thinking about helping people. That was my job, and it was what I was trained for," he said. On that day, however, the job was overwhelming. And after the emergency subsided, he finally felt a rush of fear. I realized that I could have been killed or injured, but nothing happened to me, Chandler said. I thank the Lord for taking care of me while I was doing all of those things. He didnt make me scared while I was helping people. Marine Lt. Colonel Will Dammin, right, with the Air Naval Liaison Company, (ANGLICO) in West Palm Beach, shakes hands with ARMY veteran Harry Chandler, 103, of Tequesta during ceremonies part of the thirteenth annual Tequesta Chili Cook-Off November 09, 24 in Tequesta. In 2023 the event raised over 100,000 dollars for five charities. Chandler returned to Pearl Harbor in December 2023 for the 82nd anniversary of the attack. There, he and five other survivors were honored with a parade. Chandler said he was appreciative of the honor, but said the visit also brought back painful memories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S.S. Arizona memorial now sits atop the sunken battleship. All Chandler saw was the blown-up ship where his colleagues once worked. "I felt like I was walking on their grave," he told The Post. CNN estimated in December that there were only 16 people still alive who survived the Pearl Harbor attack. Chandler, a native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, served in the military for 38 years, including six on active duty. He worked for a propeller parts company in Connecticut, where he would meet his future wife, Anna. He later went into business with his brother running an upholstery company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He moved to South Florida in 2016 and to the Tequesta Terrace senior living facility in 2023. Arrangements for a service are pending. Chandler will be buried in Massachusetts where he grew up, the family said. Staff writer Maya Washburn contributed to this story. Sign up for our Post on Jupiter weekly newsletter, delivered every Thursday! Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on Twitter at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Tequesta's Harry Chandler, a Pearl Harbor survivor, dies at 103 MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) Milford police say an investigation took place in their city Tuesday morning. The police department posted on social media around 11:21 a.m. to announce an active investigation being conducted by New Haven police in the areas of Cowles Street and Northwood Place. State police to increase patrols for New Years Eve Milford police said all units were clear from the area as of 11:56 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Stay with News 8 for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. COURTESY PHOTO GoFundMe donations totaled $105, 900 for Kenji Nonaka, above, who lost the lower part of his right leg in a shark attack on Maui. 1 /2 COURTESY PHOTO GoFundMe donations totaled $105, 900 for Kenji Nonaka, above, who lost the lower part of his right leg in a shark attack on Maui. COURTESY PHOTO Tamayo Perry, a longtime city lifeguard, died after being bitten by a shark on Oahu. Donors gave nearly $120, 000 on the fundraising website. Perry stands with his wife, Emilia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 /2 COURTESY PHOTO Tamayo Perry, a longtime city lifeguard, died after being bitten by a shark on Oahu. Donors gave nearly $120, 000 on the fundraising website. Perry stands with his wife, Emilia. COURTESY PHOTO GoFundMe donations totaled $105, 900 for Kenji Nonaka, above, who lost the lower part of his right leg in a shark attack on Maui. COURTESY PHOTO Tamayo Perry, a longtime city lifeguard, died after being bitten by a shark on Oahu. Donors gave nearly $120, 000 on the fundraising website. Perry stands with his wife, Emilia. Hawaii residents in 2024 gave more than $10 million to strangers, as well as friends and relatives in need, through the worlds leading online fundraising (and crowdfunding ) platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GoFundMes 2024 Year in Help report found that some of the top fundraising categories that Hawaii residents donated to included family, animals and community. While GoFundMe is but one of the many ways people in Hawaii generously gave in 2024 to those in need of a helping hand, it is easily measured. Among the most notable 2024 GoFundMe fundraisers in Hawaii was Help Needed for a Chemical Attack Victim, which raised $193, 774 for a 25-year-old Mandarin-language teacher at Maryknoll School. Danying Zhang was the victim of a horrific acid attack Jan. 23 while walking on the sidewalk outside Planet Fitness near Ala Moana Center, which initially left her in critical condition, fighting for her life, the GoFundMe page said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She suffered severe burns to a large portion of her body, and when she was intubated, the liquid chemical burned her mouth and throat, causing her lungs to collapse, court documents. said. Zhang was permanently disfigured from the chemical burns to large areas of her face and multiple areas of her body, legs and feet, requiring skin grafts. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Zhangs condition has stabilized, Sonny Zhang (no relation ), executive director of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, said she still must undergo surgeries and is scheduled for another one in February. In June, Danying Zhang, 25, publicly thanked the community. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support and love Ive received from the community, she said in a statement. Your kindness and generosity have been a source of strength for me during this challenging time. In January, shortly after the incident, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce had appealed to the community, friends and compassionate hearts to help pay for her medical expenses, ongoing treatment and the long road to recovery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, after further investigation, police charged Paul M. Cameron, saying the attack was part of a murder-for-hire scheme. Cameron is accused of hiring Sebastian Mahkwan to carry out the attack against a random woman to cast doubt on Cameron as the suspect in a 2023 chemical attack on another woman outside a Mililani fitness center. Trial is scheduled for March 3. Supporting Tamayo Perrys Legacy raised nearly $120, 000 for a beloved local professional surfer, city lifeguard and actor. The 49-year-old was killed June 23 after being bitten by a shark while surfing off Mokuauia (Goat Island ) at Malaekahana State Recreation Area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was surfing midday during a break from his lifeguarding shift. Perry, who was born and raised on Oahu, also ran a Kahuku-based surf school, the Oahu Surfing Experience, with wife Emilia. He surfed professionally for more than 15 years, and in 1999 won the Pipeline Master Trials. The generosity shown is deeply moving, Emilia Perry wrote June 27 on the GoFundMe page. The funds will be used to support Emilia as she navigates the future without Tamayo, her husband, best friend and provider. GoFundMe highlighted another notable fundraiser, Support Kenjis Shark Attack Recovery, which raised $105, 900 for Kenji Nonaka, who lost the lower part of his right leg while surfing Nov. 1 at Waiehu Beach Park on Maui. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends say he surfed daily and always exuded his happy, enthusiastic self, with a big smile and yee haws, while riding the waves. Nonaka vowed to get back to the ocean from his hospital bed on the day of the attack. He was discharged from the hospital Nov. 11 and returned home. At that time, Nonaka and his wife expressed their deepest gratitude for all the love, aloha and donations they have received across the island and beyond. On Dec. 21 the 61-year-old surfer returned to the ocean, just seven weeks after the shark attack. On a day when there is much to celebrate (winter solstice, XL NW swell across Hawaii ), we are so overjoyed to share that Kenji is back in the ocean !! wrote Cha rissa Leising, organizer of the fundraiser. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was his first day back in the ocean, and with the love and support of his amazing wife, Tomoko, he even got some fun waves on his belly. Leising said Nonaka will be fitted for a prosthetic in the new year. Thank you so much again for everyones support far and wide in helping one of the most stoked and positive humans ! wrote Leising. Kenji is continuing to heal and regain his strength, and well always repeat one of Kenjis best known mantras in the face of hardship : Tomorrow mo bettah. GoFundMes report says that globally an average of 2 donations are made every second. The report also says that the GoFundMe community came together in 2024 to address critical needs and champion meaningful causes worldwide. GOFUNDME FACTS Here are a few stats from the 2024 GoFundMe report :Nearly $235 million was raised globally for natural disaster relief and recovery efforts.More than 15, 500 donors helped dreams come true for Olympic and Paralympic athletes and their families.More than 42 million donations to individuals.More than 23 million donations to nonprofits.Average donation amount on GoFundMe this year : $77.One in 3 GoFundMe donors are repeat donors.The top three most generous U.S. states (number of donors per capita ) were Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.Ireland was this years most generous country.This years most generous donor is from Australia, donating more than 1, 300 times. Hawaiian Electric Industries announced the sale of American Savings Bank to independent investors, allowing HEI to reduce their debt and increase funding for wildfire settlement contributions. The sale closed on Dec. 31. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The sale also enables American Savings Bank to continue their service for Hawaii customers. The independent, local bank created by the sale will be headquartered in Honolulu, maintaining the current management team and existing brand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ASB is Hawaiis third-largest bank with $9.3 billion in assets. Parties in lawsuits seeking damages for Maui fires reach $4B global settlement, court filings say HEI sold 90.1% of the banks stock at $405 million to independent investors, with no investor owning more than 9.9% of the stock. HEI also owns 9.9%. HEI also owns Hawaiian Electric. The money from this ASB sale goes towards paying the more than $4 billion global settlement for the Lahaina wildfire. HEIs responsible for just under $2 billion of that. The sale comes after the HEI Board of Directors review of strategic options regarding the bank in August, in line with their focus on ensuring a financially healthy enterprise. The board evaluated multiple potential paths forward before deciding to sell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This transaction marks an important step in HEIs efforts to best position our companies to serve our customers and communities for the long term, said Scott Seu, president and CEO of HEI. The sale allows HEI to enhance our focus on the utility as we work to help our state recover from the 2023 Maui wildfires and strengthen the financial and strategic position of our company. Ann Teranishi, president and CEO of the bank, shared similar sentiments. This represents the best outcome for ASB, our customers, employees and the communities we have served since 1925 as we focus on the next 100 years, Teranishi said. We are excited about this next chapter for ASB. The bank celebrates its 100th anniversary in Hawaii in just over a week January 8, 2025. As an owner of 9.9% of the banks stock, HEI does not expect to be subject to regulation as a savings and loan holding company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A head-on collision briefly stopped traffic along Interstate 5 near 7th Standard Road Tuesday afternoon. The collision was reported between an SUV and a semi-truck along northbound lanes of I-5 just south of 7th Standard Road just before noon, according to CHPs Traffic Incident Information Page. GET offering free New Years Eve rides Two lanes of traffic were briefly blocked as emergency crews responded to the scene. The extent of any injuries to drivers or passengers were not immediately known. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Traffic Incident Information Page, a gold-colored SUV spun out of control into northbound lanes colliding with the semi-truck. Traffic was backed up for miles to Hageman Road, CHP said. Lanes were reopened just before 1 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding in war-torn Gaza. Images of flooded tent camps for displaced Palestinians circulated on Tuesday, with children pictured wading barefoot through pools of water and mud. According to UN figures, almost 1 million people in the Gaza Strip are living through the winter months without adequate shelter. Recently, temperatures in Gaza City have dropped below 10 degrees Celsius at night, with strong winds and rain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aid organizations have warned of precarious living conditions for internally displaced people in the territory, with lower temperatures leading to an increase in illnesses among children. There have also been reports of infant deaths due to hypothermia. Israel is continuing its operation to destroy the Hamas militia following the October 7, 2023 attacks mounted from the Gaza Strip, which killed more than 1,200 people. According to Palestinian figures, more than 45,500 people in Gaza have been killed in the fighting. Efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of 100 Hamas hostages in return for Palestinian prisoners have so far been unsuccessful. by Mahmoud Fouly CAIRO, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Egypt and China bid farewell to 2024 with stronger bilateral relations under a 2014 agreement to elevate their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Marking the 10th anniversary of the partnership, 2024 has witnessed fruitful achievements of cooperation between Egypt and China in various fields. STRATEGIC TIES A couple of weeks before the end of the year, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, in Beijing and they co-chaired the China-Egypt foreign ministers' strategic dialogue on Dec. 13. During his stay in China, Abdelatty also met with Chinese officials and executives of leading manufacturers, discussing deepening cooperation and furthering Chinese investment in Egypt. Abdelatty said that Egypt "values the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries," expressing appreciation for China's contribution to Egypt's economic and social development. In May, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi paid a visit to China, where he announced with Chinese President Xi Jinping the launch of the 2024 China-Egypt year of partnership to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership. The growth in bilateral ties was pushed by decades of friendly interactions, as Egypt was the first Arab and African nation to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1956. On top of the partnership, the two countries continue to strengthen their cooperation under the multilateral frameworks including the BRICS group, the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Egypt is also a key member of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that seeks win-win cooperation among participating states in various fields. In early September 2024, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly visited Beijing and attended the FOCAC summit, saying that Egypt and China formed "a multi-level cooperation framework." "Egypt is one of the first countries to join the BRI, and to support China's initiatives for global security, global development, and global civilization," he said in an interview with Xinhua. "Egypt appreciates the tangible achievements of Egypt-China cooperation in the last decade." ECONOMIC COOPERATION Not only did the outgoing year 2024 mark 10 years of their comprehensive strategic partnership, but it also witnessed growing economic cooperation under the BRI, which goes in line with Egypt Vision 2030 for sustainable development. China has been Egypt's largest trading partner for 12 consecutive years, with Chinese investment constantly growing in the Arab country, not least in infrastructural and industrial projects. During his visit to Beijing in September, Madbouly witnessed the signing of several contracts with Chinese companies to establish new projects in Egypt's Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), according to a cabinet statement. The new projects will join many other Chinese businesses and factories operating at an Egyptian-Chinese industrial zone built by China's giant industrial developer TEDA in the SCZone, near Egypt's vital Suez Canal. Since its establishment in 2008, the TEDA zone has attracted about 180 investment companies, with actual investment exceeding 3 billion dollars. SCZone chairman Waleid Gamal El-Dein said there were recent talks to expand the zone by another 3 square km to be able to accommodate new industries. "Economic relations between the two countries are becoming deeper and qualified for further growth in the coming period," Egyptian economist Waleed Gaballah told Xinhua. SHARED VISION Egypt and China adopt similar policies on regional and international issues, such as non-interference in other countries' internal affairs, respect for sovereignty, and call for dialogue and peaceful settlement of conflicts. This was clearly shown throughout 2024, regarding the conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the Palestine-Israel conflict in the Gaza Strip as well as the recent developments in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government earlier in December. During the China-Egypt foreign ministers' strategic dialogue earlier this month, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the pressing task is to immediately cease fire, stop violence, and ease the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. "We support Syria in realizing peace at an early date, implementing Security Council resolution 2254, advancing the domestic political process in accordance with the "Syrian-led and Syrian-owned" principle, and finding a rebuilding plan that meets the wishes of the people through inclusive dialogue," Wang said at a joint press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Abdelatty on Dec. 13. Former Egyptian Ambassador to China Ali el-Hefny also underscored the shared vision of Egypt and China. "Egypt and China seek an international system based on respect for the sovereignty of states, non-interference in their internal affairs, and dealing with states on the basis of equality," he said. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A monumental upgrade takes to the skies over Las Vegas Tuesday morning as a new Leonardo AW139 helicopter measures radiation levels before the New Years Eve celebration in Las Vegas. The National Nuclear Security Administrations aerial radiation survey begins at 8 a.m. on Dec. 31 with flights over the Strip, downtown and other areas of the Las Vegas valley. The mission: observe normal environmental radiation levels so the government can monitor for spikes during the celebration, which is expected to bring nearly 350,000 visitors to Las Vegas this year. The helicopter will perform low-altitude sweeps over the valley. The flights are described as routine, but agencies announce them each year so the public isnt alarmed by low-flying helicopters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In place of the Bell 412 helicopters used for nearly 30 years: the AW139, shown in this photo released by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on Monday: (Photo: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department) Its a new tool for the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST). Thats the umbrella designation for all U.S. Department of Energy radiological and nuclear emergency response assets and programs, according to a Nov. 19 news release announcing the helicopter as mission-ready. That announcement came as monitoring for the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix began. This AW139 will strengthen NESTs capabilities and enhance our ability to protect our nation, said Dr. Wendin Smith, the Deputy Under Secretary for the Office of Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation at DOE. The flights have taken place for years in the build-up to New Years Eve on the Strip. Other big events, including the F1 race and Super Bowl LVIII, also get NESTs participation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within NEST, the Aerial Measuring System (AMS) is operated by the Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL), based out of Nellis Air Force Base and Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. The new AW139 joins the AMS fleet, which consists of multiple aircraft equipped with advanced instruments to detect and measure radiation. What would a helicopter scan see if there was a radiation spike in Las Vegas? This is a monumental event in the timeline of RSLs more than 60 years of service to our nation, NNSS Global Security Senior Director Dr. Alexis Reed said. I couldnt be prouder of the team that supported this acquisition effort and of the men and women who provide their expertise to our aerial measuring mission every day. The AW139 modernizes NESTs aerial capabilities through enhanced radiation detection capability, which improves data collection. The new helicopter speed and longer range allow a swifter and more effective response, according to the NNSA news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) Starting January 28th, 35 veterans will head to the Brookwood Church in Simpsonville for a 12-week program called Military Reboot an effort to heal from the trauma they experienced during their time serving. We re-introduce Jesus Christ back to the veteran, that he can heal the wounded, said Program Facilitator Randy England. Because its the wounded soul that continues to eat at you as time goes on. England said its not a religious seminar, but a faithful and spiritual course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were all veterans together sitting in groups, and weve all been through some of the same things, England explained. And you can relate to some of those things. England told 7 NEWS its amazing to watch the healing throughout the course. Getting choked up, he said the friendships extend well past the programs finish date. You meet these people for life. Its just not for 12 weeks, but for the rest of your life to to heal these people, said England. John Hall is a Military Reboot graduate. He credits the program for finally allowing him to overcome the traumas hed held on to for 50 years from his service in Vietnam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I can sleep at night in peace, Hall said. He explained it as an outlet hes never had. Tried to talk to my parents a little bit about it, but try to talk to my mom. And she said I dont want to talk about that. Just forget it, Hall shared. So there was no one else. So you kept it inside. One, he now does. It gave us something to focus on. Our faith in God didnt mean for us to suffer like this, said Hall. Jerry Hughes serves as a Program Leader for Military Reboot. He said to really feel the impact, one must be vulnerable to want to change. I will be open to them so they can be open to me. The one thing I want them to know, theres nothing they can say that would shock or hurt, said Hughes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said when that happens, the light starts to shine again. I have watched men who walked into the room and just did not want to speak, did not even utter a word, Hughes told 7NEWS. They introduced themselves and that was the end of it. Then I watched their eyes start to open and their smiles start to grow. He said it serves as a reminder that nobody comes through this life unscathed. Hopefully this will be a a place where people can come and lay those burdens down and walk into a better, freer life than they ever thought possible, said Hughes. England said thats where the healing starts. I tell people if they get their hands cleared and theyre holding on to stuff, guess what? When you open your hands, you can receive a lot more, England explained. If your hands are clenched, you cant receive anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To Randy England, John Hall, Jerry Hughes, and the leaders at Military Reboot, Thank You for Your Service. To learn more about Military Reboot or to sign up, click here. To submit a nomination for our Thank You for Your Service series, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Tennessee hemp growers, retailers, and advocates are breathing a sigh of relief after a Davidson County judge temporarily paused new rules set to go into effect the day after Christmas that hemp stakeholders argued would have turned the industry to ashes. One of the rules, announced by the Department of Agriculture in September, would prohibit hemp products containing more than 0.3% THCa when burned. Hemp stakeholders argued it would have banned all hemp flower, a product that has been legally sold in Tennessee since 2019 and accounts for around 80% of retailers sales. Theres going to be nothing to regulate. You dont need to hire any inspectors. Well all go out of business, Michael Solomon, a Tennessee hemp business owner said during a November hearing with lawmakers. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Cynthia Cabrera, chief strategy officer for Hometown Hero and a member of the Tennessee Growers Coalition told News 2 the industry supports regulations that are reasonable and rational, however, Tennessees rules are not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were all interested in consumer safety, Cabrera said. There are a handful of things you have to do to ensure consumer safety. The Tennessee bill that passed, I want to say it was 60 pages or maybe longer, so there were a bunch of other things in there that I knew were going to cause problems in the future. The Tennessee Growers Coalition and other stakeholders raised money to sue the state over the rules, which hemp advocates have done in other states, including Texas, Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and Arkansas when lawmakers passed similar rules. Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom The only avenue the industry has had available to them is lawsuits, Cabrera said. You cant sue for everything because there are not unlimited pots of money, but you know when there are going to be issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 23, just days before the rules were set to go into effect, a Davidson County judge threw them a temporary lifeline by issuing a preliminary injunction on the rules until Feb. 18. The judge will issue a final ruling on Feb. 18 which will give stakeholders time to gather more information that provides additional understanding of the proposed testing. While hemp growers and retailers wait for a final ruling, its business as usual. Over 3,000 stores are in the state, and of those 3,000 stores, 60 to 90% of their product sales are THCa flower, Cabrera said. Thats a lot, so if I were a business I wouldnt just be walking away from that right now. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com A spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture said the agency does not comment on pending litigation, but added that they respect the courts decision and look forward to reaching a final resolution of these matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Dec. 31JULY SCRAA PUTS REGIONAL AIRPORT IN HOLDING PATTERN PELLA Unable to purchase the land it needs, the South Central Regional Airport Agency has put the regional airport in a holding pattern. SCRAA voted unanimously, and without discussion, to adopt a resolution to notify the cities of Oskaloosa and Pella that they can't buy the land for the proposed airport, and will not pursue it further until told to do so by the cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My perspective on this is basically pressing the pause button on the development of this replacement airport," said board member Jim Hansen. The resolution also stated SCRAA will continue to own the land it has already purchased for the airport, and lease it to farmers. Hansen did not specify a time frame for how long the board would keep and lease the land. Ultimately, if nothing further happens, the board could put the land up for sale, he said. SCRAA owns 379 acres of farmland it has purchased for the airport, or about 60% of what is needed. The land was purchased with a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That grant was good for 20 years. Eltahir said there are still 12 years left on the grant. SCRAA was formed in 2012 by a 28E Agreement between Oskaloosa, Pella and Mahaska County. The plan was that once the regional airport was constructed and operational, the Pella Municipal Airport and Oskaloosa Airport would cease operations. Support for the regional airport has been dwindling over the years. It has long been opposed by a handful of landowners who refused to sell. Mahaska County left SCRAA in 2022, after the Iowa Supreme Court ruled that the portion of the 28E Agreement that required the two cities to approve its withdrawal was unconstitutional. In November, four citizens filed three complaints with the Iowa Public Information Board about those meetings, which discussed, among other things, farm leases of SCRAA land. IPIB accepted those complaints in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaints alleged, and IPIB agreed, that as a governmental body, SCRAA did not meet its obligations under Iowa open meetings laws when its executive committee held those meetings without notice to the public. RAGBRAI PASSES THROUGH KNOXVILLE KNOXVILLE Riders trickled into town throughout the afternoon as the cyclists from RAGBRAI made a stop for the night in Marion County. By evening, hundreds of tents were pitched at Young's Park near the Knoxville Speedway, as riders set up camp before heading out to Ottumwa the following day. This marked their fourth day of riding, taking off early that morning from Winterset. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of them was Joe Guttman from Kentucky. It's his 29th RAGBRAI and according to him, what makes it worthwhile is the community he finds on the trail with other cyclists. "RAGBRAI what I like to tell people is America at its best," Guttman said. "People talk to each other, everybody is just having a good time and respectful, and just kind. The towns are so welcoming and I just love it." The Iowa countryside and the people are an added bonus. "Oh, it's gorgeous. Iowa's gorgeous," Guttman said. "And its physical beauty is only exceeded by the personalities of the people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with the veterans, there also plenty of first-timers. One of them was Rick Kuester, 70, of Illinois. Riding through the state, he's been impressed with the local hospitality. "It really impresses when you ride and all the people from Iowa are out there whether they're on a small farm or they're in the city and they're cheering you on and they're welcoming you it's really nice," Kuester said. AUGUST LAKE KEOMAH DRAINED OSKALOOSA The Iowa Department of Natural Resources drained Lake Keomah as part of a project to improve the lake's water quality. Workers started draining the 78-acre lake July 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They were right on target with draining it," Wiedmann said. "I had heard July 9. And next morning I woke up, I could see they had lowered it some." They drain the lake by opening the gates in the dam, and then the water empties through into a spillway. From there, the water returns to the watershed. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2026. Over the years, nutrients largely from runoff from farmland have built up in the lake, as has silt from shoreline erosion. The buildup of silt reduces the lake's depth. The buildup of nutrients create algae blooms in the lake. The algae blooms can block sunlight from reaching beneath the water's surface and choke off oxygen in the water. The algae can also release a toxin that is dangerous for fish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The restoration project will involve removing silt by the truckload from the lakebed, especially in the area of the south boat ramp. Workers will also stabilize the shoreline to reduce erosion, add fish habitats (such as logs that fish can hide under) and stabilize the concrete around the spillway. Once the restoration project is finished, they will close the dam gates and allow the lake to fill in naturally. How long that takes can vary from months to years. MCDG CELEBRATES 100 YEARS IN U.S. CHAMBER OSKALOOSA The Mahaska Chamber and Development Group celebrated 100 years as a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of MCDG members filled the organization's second-floor offices at 222 First Ave. East to mark the occasion with refreshments and a ceremonial ribbon cutting. The Chamber was first organized in 1882 as the Oskaloosa Board of Trade. The group changed its name to the Commercial Club in 1911, and the Chamber of Commerce in 1920. In 1924, the Mahaska County Chamber of Commerce officially became a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The MCDG's mission is varied, from economic development, to tourism, to rural and agricultural development. According to DeGroot, that could be finding grant money to redo downtown store facades or beautify the sidewalks, starting initiatives like Painting with Lights to bring people into the community, helping smaller communities get a community center or playground equipment or helping businesses find a space to move or expand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the organization worked for years to secure a certified site on the southeast edge of town, and cut the ribbon on it in 2023. But that doesn't mean their work there is done. SEPTEMBER OSKY TEEN SMASHES STEER CHARITY AUCTION RECORD OSKALOOSA When 15-year-old Baylen Brink accepted an offer to take part in the Iowa Governor's Charity Steer Show, he set a personal goal of breaking the record raised by a single exhibitor. He didn't just break it. He smashed it. "The goal going in there was $50,000," Baylen said. "If we got $50,000, we'd probably break the record and it would stand for a really long time." Between the auction price of the steer and donations, Brink raised $71,354, according to the Iowa Cattlemen's Association. That goal was personal for Brink. The charity steer show benefits the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Ronald McDonald Houses provides lodging to the families of people receiving long-term medical care in a hospital. Last year, Brink's was one of those families. His stepbrother, Nolan, then 6, spent more than 80 days in the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City after an ATV accident in 2023. Doctors amputated his left leg following an ATV accident. For much of that time, Brink and the rest of his family stepmother, Justine and and sister, Harbor stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Iowa City. A woman from the Norwalk area bought the steer for $20,000. That same woman then sold the steer to Iowa State University for market value a little over $3,000 then also donated that money to the Ronald McDonald House. Balen's path to the charity steer show wasn't a direct one. His 1,478-pound crossbred steer, Rocco, had won third place in its category at the Southern Iowa Fair. Normally, the winner is invited to the charity auction, but the person who won wasn't eligible because they had a heifer, not a steer. The second place winner "politely declined" the invitation, he said. That brought the Mahaska County Cattlemen's Association to Baylen. Exhibitors in the charity steer show raise money by what the steer brings at the auction and through local donations. Baylen said he started by making a big list of potential donors, then he went to work soliciting donations over the next three weeks. Not only did many of those approached donate, they often referred other potential donors, Baylen said. About 160 people and business donated. "When the accident happened, everyone just rallied around our family," Baylen said. "It was just awesome to see the support of Oskaloosa go to such a great cause, just to see it all unfold." AJINOMOTO OPENS WETLAND BANK TO PUBLIC EDDYVILLE The large, open field that is part of the Ajinomoto County Line Wetland Bank may not look like much more than green grass stubble now, but Steve Salevsky sees what the future holds. "A lot of the other flower species and other prairie grasses are still a bit dormant right now, so it takes awhile for them to develop and acclimate to the soil," Salevsky said. "So next spring, we'll start to see some vivid color coming out here, and then two or three years from now, it'll be absolutely magnificent." Salevsky is the senior operations director at the Eddyville manufacturing facility for Ajinomo Health and Nutrution North America. AHN officially opened the County Line Wetland Bank to the public in a ceremony attended by company officials and local dignitaries. The wetland includes more than 2,000 native trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses that have been planted by AHN on 130 acres of former farmand, and a half-mile gravel walking path to help the public enjoy it. Although open to the public, the wetlands is still in the early stages of development. Phase two of the project will see another 500 trees planted in this area, and 1,000 trees planted on 40 acres that workers recently finished excavating. AHN earns carbon credits from the Environmental Protection Agency roughly one credit for each acre. AHN will sell the credits to other developers to allow them to meet EPA requirements for their projects, then funnel that money either into caring for County Line Wetland Bank or other sustainability projects. The wetland will return carbon to the soil, improve water quality, provide better flood control along the Des Moines River and provide a home for myriad species of wildlife. Donald Promnitz is the associate editor of the Ottumwa Courier and the Oskaloosa Herald. He can be reached at dpromnitz@ottumwacourier.com. Follow him on Twitter @DonPromnitz. A Jeju Air plane crashed on Sunday, killing 179 people. The CEO addressed reporters on Tuesday. Its CEO, Kim E-bae, outlined how the airline plans to regain trust after the catastrophic crash. He apologized, pledged compensation for victims, and announced scheduling changes focused on safety. The CEO of Jeju Air addressed reporters on Tuesday, outlining how the airline plans to recover from the catastrophic crash that killed 179 people. Kim E-bae announced measures he hoped would steady the firm in its deepest crisis, in the face of intense anger from victims' families. Jeju's flight 7C2216 crash-landed on Sunday, hitting a barrier and bursting into flames after touching down without its landing gear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All but two of the 181 people on board died, making it South Korea's worst-ever air disaster. The cause is still being investigated. The Boeing 737-800 crash killed 179 out of 181 people onboard. Chris Jung/NurPhoto via Getty Images An airline in crisis Jeju's shares tanked by 16% on the news, touching a record low on Monday. They rallied a little to close 8.7% lower before South Korean markets closed for the New Year. Passengers began mass-canceling tickets, with at least 68,000 in a day. On Tuesday, Kim held a press conference in Seoul and apologized, saying he knew Jeju had a huge task to regain fliers' trust. The BBC covered and translated the press conference. Kim gave some new information about Flight 7C2216, though he said the answer for why it crashed would have to wait for the formal investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the pre-flight inspection of the Beong 737-800 showed nothing "abnormal" about the plane or the landing gear. He also cited the airline's safety policies, saying all flights require sign-off from maintenance crews and that pilots are trained to high standards. Full responsibility He said Jeju would take full responsibility for addressing the disaster, a notable pledge since nobody has formally determined Jeju to be at fault. Kim addressed the cancelations and said he knew they would continue until passengers had confidence in Jeju again. He also said the airline would offer onsite support at Muan International Airport for the grieving families gathered there, and prepare an emergency compensation package. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also said Jeju staff, too, would receive support to help them mourn their colleagues. At an earlier press event on Sunday, Kim apologized for the disaster and said the company's top priority was to support the families, per BBC News. Schedule changes, emphasis on safety Kim said on Tuesday that Jeju would trim its schedules to give it more scope to focus on safety, decreasing air traffic by 10 to 15% until March. Kim said the reduction did not mean Jeju was running too many planes beforehand. Kim told reporters that even though Jeju Air has received the most fines of any Korean airline, its safety record improved over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the airline increased its number of maintenance personnel since 2019. Dodging questions Kim avoided directly answering a question about the barrier near the end of the runway that the plane hit. Safety experts have focused on it as a possible reason the crash was so deadly. Todd Curtis, founder of Air Safe Media, told CNBC of the barrier: "Certainly that made it difficult to stop the aircraft safely." It could take investigators weeks, months, or even longer to uncover the exact cause of the crash. A team of US National Transportation Safety Board and Boeing officials are supporting the South Korean authorities with the investigation. Read the original article on Business Insider HILO, Hawaii (KHON2) For many Japanese families, mochi pounding is a New Years tradition as it is meant to bring good fortune and longevity. One Hilo family has been doing it for a century. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news More than 50 members of the Takeya family reunited in Hilo on Sunday, Dec. 29 to help with pounding, steaming rice and making mochi for the New Year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Popular all-you-can-eat McCully restaurant to close in February According to the family, the tradition started in 1924 when Masao Takeya, the son of immigrants from Kumamoto, Japan, married Hatsumi Hiura, the daughter of immigrants from Hiroshima. The pair moved into their Hamakua Coast home with their 12 children. The Takeyas then gathered with friends and family, usually the weekend after Christmas, to make sweet rice cakes with sticky rice. Members would come together in the sugar plantations near Wailea and Hakalau to take place in the tradition that is supposed to keep the family together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flipping the mochi is hard. The rice comes out real hot. Um, all about timing. Make sure you, your fingers dont get smashed. And, um, the consistency of pounding the mochi to make it the nice smooth texture, said Jodie Takeya, 4th generation mochi pounder. Check out more news from around Hawaii The tradition has been passed down seven generations. Sundays 100th annual get-together brought members from Oahu, Maui, Washington state, Florida and Nevada. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Portions of this story are courtesy MyNorthwest.com A recent report from the Facebook history group Vanishing Seattle that Merchants Cafe in Seattles Pioneer Square neighborhood is closing on New Years Eve is incorrect, according to the bar. Merchants Cafe is simply closing for renovations, where they will be upgrading bathrooms, piping, and electrical. They hope to reopen by March 1. The building, at 109 Yesler Way, dates to around 1890 after the Great Seattle Fire and is believed to be the longest continuously operated restaurant and watering hole in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchants Cafe is saturated with Seattle history. It was in that same spot, in an earlier structure which stood on the site, where the one and only photograph of Chief Seattle was created by Edward Sammis in 1865. Stories of what has taken place inside the current three-story building over the past 130 years are a big part of its charm, and play a significant role in how current operator Darcy Hanson promotes the restaurant and bar, as well as the rooms for rent upstairs. Those upstairs rooms reportedly housed sex workers for decades in the late-19th and early-20th centuries. A lot of stuff in here is original, Hanson told KIRO Newsradio on a tour of the second floor in January. Hanson pointed out dull brass hardware attached to the side of the door frame which still opens and closes the transom window above the door. Its original, a lot of this, in all these apartments, Hanson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the structure is not designated as an official City of Seattle landmark, it is located within the Pioneer Square Preservation District. Merchant Cafe's historic significance is well documented by the City of Seattle. However, as recent decisions by the City of Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board about Memorial Stadium and by the City of Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections about the old Mamas Mexican Kitchen have shown, historic significance in Seattle often results in only a readily dispatched minor regulatory nuisance for a buildings owner, and what amounts to a performative delay in demolition proceedings. Hawaii Marine Animal Response has crowned their winner of the annual Chunky Seal Week, Aukai. The Hawaiian monk seal has given birth to at least four pups, and is known for her independent nature. Aukai, which means explorer of the sea, enjoys traveling around the island, without favoring one side. If you spot any Hawaiian monk seals, please report them to the NOAA Stranding Hotline at (888) 256-9840 or visit one of their team members on the shoreline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. LA PAZ, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Bolivian Prosecutor's Office confirmed on Monday that it will request six months of preventive detention for former president Evo Morales, who was accused of human trafficking and rape. Roger Mariaca, the state attorney general, said in a press conference that the hearing will be held in the city of Tarija on Jan. 14, 2025. He warned that the arrest warrant and other legal measures will be issued if Morales does not appear. Morales, who was president from 2006 to 2019, denied the charges and said his constitutional rights, including being presumed innocent until proven guilty, were being violated. Morales has been facing an arrest warrant for his refusal to testify in the case since October. He now stays in the region protected by a security team organized by loyal social movements in Chapare in Cochabamba Department. He said earlier that the "brutal legal war" against him aims to prevent his candidacy in next year's presidential elections. MARCY, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) Governor Kathy Hochul was in Marcy on Friday, demanding answers after the death of Robert Brooks was revealed in videos last week. Brooks was the prisoner who died at the Marcy Correctional Facility on Tuesday, December 10 after an encounter with officers at the facility. Attorney General Letitia James released videos of the incident on Friday, December 27 as part of her offices investigation. Hochul was at the facility on Monday, December 30 to meet with incarcerated individuals, as well as Department of Corrections and Community Supervision officials to announce corrective actions. The governor also ordered an immediate and full investigation into Brooks death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, as I stood in the room where Robert Brooks was killed, I was once again heartbroken by this unnecessary loss of life and further sickened to think of the actions of depraved individuals with no regard for human life, Governor Hochul said in a statement. Mr. Brooks and his family did not deserve this. I told both Marcy leadership and the incarcerated individuals that I met with that every single individual who enters a DOCCS facility deserves to be safe, whether they are employed there or serving their time. The system failed Mr. Brooks and I will not be satisfied until there has been significant culture change. Today I am implementing a number of new policies at Marcy and within DOCCS, and I look forward to continuing to hear ideas from experts, elected officials, and advocates as we continue this work. Hochul also directed DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello to terminate every individual involved in the killing. Currently, 13 of them have been suspended without pay and one has resigned. During her meeting, the governor has also directed Martuscello to appoint Bennie Thorpe as the new superintendent at Marcy Correctional Facility. Superintendent Thorpe currently sits as the superintendent at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Walkill. Thorpe has spent more than 20 years working in corrections, including leadership roles at Hudson and Sing Sing Correctional Facilities. Other corrective actions announced by the governor today include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The expedition of $400 million to install fixed cameras and distribute body-worn cameras at all DOCCS facilities. According to the Governors office, Martuscello has been directed to expand the policy for activating body-worn cameras whenever staff members come into contact with incarcerated individuals. Adding DOCCS staff to the Office of Special Investigations. The governor has said that this will ensure that complaints are handled immediately and that anyone found of wrongdoing will be held accountable in a timely manner. Directing DOCCS to bring in an outside firm to conduct a review of practices, culture and patters across the states entire correctional system. Expanding the DOCCS whistleblower hotline to facilitate anonymous tips from employees and contractors as well as incarcerated individuals. Deploying $2 million to expand DOCCS partnership with the Correctional Association of New York (CANY). The Association is charged with visiting and examining the states correctional facilities. Launching a new partnership with AMEND, which is a public health and human rights program. The program works in prisons to assess the culture of facilities and offers recommendations to reduce misconducts and improve health and well-being. AMEND will also be reviewing training curriculums and provide recommendations to improve them. Launching a new partnership with Chicago Beyond. The program will be conducting analyses within several facilities to improve practices within the facilities. Creating a new dedicated unit on the future of prisons in the state within the Council of Community Justice. The unit would be tasked with: creating a strategy for creating a healthier environment within correctional facilities, creating and improving training and professional development for staff, addressing staffing needs, the state of healthcare in prisons, analyzing the projected population for prisons over the next 20 years under different policy options, and the physical state of facilities. Senator Joe Griffo, Assemblyman Brian Miller and Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon issued a joint statement on Monday after the governors visit: Public safety inside the correctional facilities, as well as in our communities, remains our number one priority, as opposed to the Governor diverting attention and contributing to potential unrest within and outside the facilities. There are active investigations underway to hold the individuals accountable for this horrific act. It is crucial that we allow all ongoing investigations to proceed without any distractions to ensure justice is served. We are concerned about the governors decision to tour the Marcy Correctional Facility today. While we remain committed to working with her office to uphold justice and enhance public safety, we are disappointed in this timing and are uncertain how such a visit contributes to these efforts. We urge all involved to prioritize the safety of all and allow the investigation to take its proper course. The governor must prioritize, review, and examine all policies, protocols, and procedures to take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all of the incarcerated and state employees working in these state-wide facilities. State Senator Joe Griffo, Assemblyman Brian Miller and Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, in a joint statement on Monday, December 30. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. TAYLOR A homeless man threatened police when they found him at Walmart wearing clothes he had stolen from the mens department, according to a criminal complaint. Demetrius Johnson, 30, is charged with making terroristic threats, resisting arrests, retail theft and related charges. Here is what police say happened: At about 1:30 p.m. on Dec. 28, police officers responded to Walmart on a report of a disorderly man taking his clothes off in the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived, they found Johnson in the bathroom, kneeling in front of the toilet. Once he became aware of responding officers, Johnson came out of the stall with a toothbrush, tooth paste and mouthwash. Officers spotted price tags still attached to the sweatpants he was wearing. Johnson didnt have any identification, but told police his name was Dominque Johnson, with a birthdate of Nov. 11, 1994. Officers checked the name provided through a criminal database system, with no results. As officers were attempting to clarify information Johnson provided, he attempted to leave the bathroom and was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers spoke to Walmart employees, who said Johnson went into the breakroom and asked for a garbage bag. When employees told him no, he grabbed one without permission and put his used socks and jeans inside, then stashed the bag behind the door to the meat preparation area. Officers then identified Johnson through the birthdate he provided and found he had a warrant out of Fairfax, Virginia. As Officer Mark Grasso was sitting with Johnson, Johnson said, You should cherish your life and be smart, the way you take that, you know what I mean. Johnson also threatened to hit Grasso several times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walmart was able to provide officers with surveillance footage showing Johnson changing clothes in the mens clothing section of the store. Officials from the Fairfax County Police Department, Virginia, emailed Taylor police a photo of Johnson, which identified him as the man in custody. Store personnel determined that the value of items Johnson had either stolen or damaged was $127. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10:45 a.m. a.m. on Jan. 8 before Judge Joanne Price. Johnson remains at Lackawanna County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail. First residents of The Other Side Village ring a bell to celebrate the opening of the master-planned community on Dec. 30, 2024. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) When Jennifer Davis thinks about the new home shes about to move into, she pictures herself cooking and baking banana bread, her favorite. That may seem like a mundane action for many, but for Davis, that thought means safety, acceptance and a new start. After battling with addiction and living at the Geraldine E. King Womens Resource Center for eight months, Davis has found a path to a new way of living, she said on Monday at the grand opening of The Other Side village, a master-planned community leaders described as a self-reliant, safe, sober community for Utahs chronically homeless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Davis found out she was occupying one of the first 60 homes at the village nestled on the former site of a landfill on the west side of Salt Lake City, she said she was in a bit of disbelief. But, she also felt a sense of peace. My long journey of just looking for a fresh start, looking for an opportunity, like it had finally reached the safe harbor, she said in front of one of the finished homes, which, for Mondays grand opening, was adorned with blue balloons and housewarming plants. Jennifer Davis, one of the dirst residents of The Other Side Village speaks to reporters at the opening of the master-planned community on Dec. 30, 2024. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) As soon as next week, up to nine people will be moving into the village in single-occupancy homes, making up the communitys first residents, said Preston Cochrane, chief executive officer at The Other Side Village. Those moving in next week rang a big bell during the opening ceremony four times; the first symbolized their arrival to a place of peace and safety; the second was to proclaim they werent alone but part of a new family; the third signaled a recognition of their strength; and the fourth represented light and hope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the sound of the bell fades, let it echo in your heart as a reminder that you are loved, valued and never alone. You are part of something extraordinary now. Welcome home, Cochrane told the new residents during the ceremony. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Hundreds attended the opening event, many sporting hoodies from The Other Side Academy a vocational and life skills school for convicts, substance abusers or unsheltered people and some shed tears as Utah musician EJ Michaels performed songs about finding change and turning places into home. This is about belonging, and this is creating a new kind of belonging in our capital city, and the first of its kind in the state of Utah, the kind whose ripple effect is going to reach beyond the property here, beyond Salt Lake City, into other parts of this entire state and the nation, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said. People are watching what is happening here, and theyre feeling the difference. Phase One Davis home may be small, but it has everything a bedroom, a kitchen and living room space, and a bathroom. A short walk away takes her to a community pavilion, where neighbors can meet, cook and do laundry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her house is one of 60 that are expected to be finished in the projects first phase. More people will be able to move in as the homes are completed. But first, to become eligible for the tiny homes, theyll need to graduate from The Other Side Academys prep school, a life skills program. Interior of a cottage at The Other Side Village in Salt Lake City on Dec. 30, 2024 (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) It was a long journey to get the houses ready for them. City officials faced delays due to challenges with getting all city approvals, remediating the landfills soil, and fundraising, Cochrane said. There are three models of homes in the village, and depending on the builder their prices vary. So if a school is building a home, obviously the labor is a lot cheaper than if we hire some other developer to do that, Cochrane said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, many of them cost about $80,000 to build. To prepare for the second phase of the community, The Other Side Villages administrators are in fundraising mode, Cochrane said. The goal is to have 180 more units then. Eventually, the completed village will have 430 cottages. Theres not a definite timeline for the second and third phases. However, Cochrane said, theyre hoping to build them as soon as possible. Let us know what you think... We have received capital funding for development and construction costs, but for operational costs, our goal is to be self-sustaining. So thats why we operate social enterprise businesses, he said. We create businesses so that all the proceeds that we raise go back into the operational funding. We dont charge a dime for our programs. Residents are expected to work to help financially sustain the village, many through enterprises such as The Other Side Donuts. They are also expected to keep working on themselves, by maintaining their sobriety, keeping their places tidy, communicating with peers and receiving feedback. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a beautiful thing when youre a part of that community. For most theyve been isolated on the street. They may not have that friendship or camaraderie or people to lean on to help them, Cochrane said. This provides that immediate family and that support system. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The federal governments annual point-in-time report found that homelessness increased by 18% nationwide from January 2023 to January 2024, reaching a record level of nearly 771,500 people experiencing homelessness on a single night. The newly-released report, compiled for Congress by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, estimated that the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by 33% over the last four years, a figure that includes a 40% increase in sheltered homeless people and a 21% increase in unsheltered homeless people. Some of this increase was driven by a surge in asylum-seeking immigrants which contributed to a 39% increase in family homelessness and a 33% increase in child homelessness across the country, the report found, with an increase of more than 100% among homeless families in the 13 communities that said they were greatly affected by migration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No American should face homelessness, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring every family has access to the affordable, safe, and quality housing they deserve, HUD agency head Adrianne Todman said. While this data is nearly a year old, and no longer reflects the situation we are seeing, it is critical that we focus on evidence-based efforts to prevent and end homelessness. Todman highlighted the 8% decrease in homeless veterans from 2023 to 2024, saying the drop is evidence in favor of more targeted funding approaches. The agency emphasized how high rental costs have exacerbated the problem of homelessness and claimed that HUD added 435,000 new low-income rental units in the first three quarters of 2024. Over the last four years, the Biden administration has focused on a housing-first approach to homelessness, which emphasizes getting people who are homeless into permanent subsidized housing that is not tied to behavioral requirements like sobriety or program participation. But critics of that approach argue it is costly and has failed to help keep people off the streets, and they instead recommend states focus on treatment-first and temporary housing solutions. Does housing first help or hurt? President-elect Donald Trumps former homelessness czar, Robert Marbut, said the four-year spike in homelessness ending with the largest number of recorded homeless individuals since data collection began in 2007 suggests that a focus on housing homeless individuals before implementing treatment requirements leads to more homelessness instead of less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The skyrocketing increase in homelessness over the last four years of 32.9% clearly shows the housing first approach has not worked, Marbut told the Deseret News in a statement. Rather than realizing the mistakes of housing first, the Biden-Harris administration is asking for even more money. People hold vigil candles during the annual Homeless Persons Memorial Vigil, hosted by the Salt Lake Valley Coalition to End Homelessness, in Pioneer Park in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News Funding for housing-first initiatives have tripled over the last decade, Marbut said, while the number of those experiencing homelessness has increased by 21% since 2010. Marbut, who was the founding president of San Antonios homeless resource campus Haven for Hope, said housing first is the problem, not the solution, and called for greater resources to treat mental illness and substance abuse. Since the January point-in-time count was conducted, HUD has announced over $7.5 billion in new funding opportunities, in the form of federal subsidies, grants and direct awards, according to the HUD report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the Department of Housing and Urban Development under the Biden administration has recommended prioritizing new programs to quickly reconnect homeless individuals to housing, the incoming president has focused on public safety. In a policy video released in April 2023, Trump promised to use every tool, lever and authority to get the homeless off our streets we want to take care of them but they have to be off our streets. Trump called for a ban on urban camping, with an option for those who are arrested to receive treatment and services in tent cities on inexpensive land or to be taken to state mental institutions. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in June that cities may ban people from sleeping or camping on public property. This strategy will be far better and also far less expensive than spending vast sums of taxpayer money to house the homeless in luxury hotels without addressing their underlying issues, Trump said. This is how I will end the scourge of homelessness. A jump in chronic homelessness During Bidens presidency, the number of those experiencing chronic homelessness has risen from just under 128,000 to 152,600, the greatest number of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness since data collection began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness increased by 7% from 2023 to 2024, according to the latest point-in-time count. Chronic homelessness is used to describe an individual with a disability who has continuously experienced homelessness for more than one year or who has experienced homelessness at least four times over the course of three years for a total of 12 months. In a breakdown of the homelessness population, the HUD report found that at least 140,000 people experiencing homelessness in January of 2024 suffered from severe mental illness and at least 112,600 suffered from chronic substance abuse. The point-in-time count identified 3,869 individuals experiencing homelessness in Utah, including 906 who were classified as chronically homeless, 1,378 who were severely mentally ill and 839 who had chronic substance abuse. The City and County of Honolulus Department of Parks and Recreation is on the search for members of their prestigious Lei Court. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The 2025 court will consist of applicants between the ages of 31 and 45 on the day of the 2025 Lei Court Selection, scheduled for March 1. The selection will occur at 9 a.m. at Kapolei Hale, and consist of applicants displaying their lei-making skills, hula, public speaking in English and Hawaiian and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement History of Lei Day is May Day in Hawaii After the demonstrations, a lei king and queen will be crowned, alongside princes and princesses. This royal court will represent the City and County of Honolulu in an honorary capacity at several events throughout the year, with the Lei Day Celebration being the most important. The 97th annual Lei Day Celebration will be on May 1 at Kapiolani Park from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Department of Parks and Recreation will provide free lei-making workshops in preparation for the event. Applications must be received or postmarked by Jan. 31. For more information on Lei Court, contact Samantha Sun at (808) 768-3032 or visit the application online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. LIHUE, Hawaii (KHON2) Wilcox Medical Center, the largest medical center on Kauai, nurses are voting to authorize a strike to protest unfair labor practices. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Hawaii Nurses Association has been in negotiations with Wilcox Medical Center since May and their contracts expired in August. We believe Hawaii Pacific Health should bargain in good faith over whether to extend the same support to its Wilcox Medical Center nurses to ensure Kauai residents have access to quality care, said Quyen Rockwell, a Wilcox nurse of 16 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nursing team, which consists of 159 members, will be voting to authorize the strike until Jan. 1 at 8 p.m. We hope fairness will prevail because unlike those in Honolulu, patients on Kauai have fewer options when they need care, said Rosalee Agas-Yuu, HNA president. They dont have the luxury of choosing to go to another hospital. Our goal is to avoid disruptions in care for Kauais patients. Bicyclist struck on Kuhio Highway, marks Kauais 8th traffic fatality Nurses are concerned about staffing ratios and managements bargaining practices, among other issues, said Dianna Rodriguez, a Wilcox RN of six years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KHON2 received the following statement from Wilcox Medical Centers CEO Jen Chahanovich: Through 22 bargaining sessions, including the recent involvement of a federal mediator, we have been dedicated to reaching an agreement with our nurses. They are a valuable part of our Wilcox team, and we will continue to negotiate in good faith with the Hawaii Nurses Association. We will wait for the voting results and remain focused on serving our patients and their families on Kauai. This strike authorization vote comes shortly after Kapiolani Medical Centers 600 nurses won a three-year contract after a year of negotiations, two strikes and an 18-day lockout. Their contract took effect in October, and will expire in Oct. 2027. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. The Hopi tribe is on the path to regain up to 20,000 acres of land near Winslow that will end years of checkerboard ownership and allow the tribe to pursue new development. A new agreement will initiate the first in a series of condemnation actions to transfer a total of 110,000 acres from Arizona to the United States to be held in trust for the Hopi Tribe. Tribal leaders said they were eager to develop infrastructure to support long-term development plans. The lands, scattered among Hopi-owned areas, have been leased to the tribe for ranching for many years. Once the Hopi Tribe deposits $3.9 million, representing estimated compensation for the state of Arizona, the land will become U.S. property and immediately placed in trust for the Hopi Tribe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "December 20 is the historic day that this all came together when the Governor concurred with the land condemnation," Hopi Chairman Timothy L. Nuvangyaoma told The Arizona Republic. "I am thankful for everyone who had a hand in this. Everything is in place. We should be realizing the transfer of condemnation of the first set of acreage turned over to Hopi any day now." Land represents history of relocation The history of how Hopi reached this point is a long and complex one. In 1882, President Chester A. Arthur signed an executive order creating a reservation for Hopis and such other Indians as the Secretary of the Interior may see fit to settle thereon. The 1974 Navajo-Hopi Land Settlement Act established a boundary, splitting 1.8 million acres of jointly owned Navajo-Hopi land in northern Arizona. This law led to government-led efforts to relocate 10,00015,000 Navajos because they were found to be residing on the "wrong side" of the land. This event was seen as an ongoing effort to exploit the area's mineral resources. "The forced relocation was and remains a tragedy of epic proportions that spawned social ills of all manners for the relocated families. Alcoholism, depression, suicide, poverty and unemployment rates exceed all ethnic populations in the United States by as much as 300%," according to a 2012 report by the Navajo Human Rights Commission, "The Impact of the Navajo-Hopi Land Settlement Act of 1974." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid turmoil, population growth, forced relocation and a land dispute between the Navajo and Hopi tribes over the decades, Congress passed the Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute Settlement Act in 1996, also known as the Accommodation Agreement. This required Navajos still residing on Hopi partition lands to sign a 75-year lease with the Hopi Tribe. By signing the agreement, they would be allowed to remain in their homes and comply with Hopi laws and regulations. Each signer would also receive a grazing permit for 40 sheep. "This has a lot of history behind it," Nuvangyaoma said about the condemnation. "It goes back to '96, it had to do with some of our lands that were offset by the federal government. It was a way to try to get some of that back, knowing our ancestral footprints spans beyond what we know as the Hopi reservation today." Arizona agreed to the condemnation that will release the lands to the Hopi Tribe. The action was authorized by the Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute Settlement Act of 1996m which formalized a 1995 resolution to a longstanding land dispute in northeastern Arizona involving the Hopi Tribe, the Navajo Tribe and the United States. After nearly three decades of the Hopi fighting for their rights, Im proud to enter into this historic agreement, said Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs. Every Arizonan should have an opportunity to thrive and a space to call home, and this agreement takes us one step closer to making those Arizona values a reality." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hopi, Navajo lands: For years, they were trapped by a land dispute. Some Navajo families still wait for help Three decades in the making Nuvangyaoma said political factors have significantly delayed the process of acquiring these lands over the decades, adding that when it comes to fulfilling settlements like land and water agreements, Native communities are often not prioritized and are frequently overlooked. "While politicians of the past refused to hear the voices of tribal communities in our state, Im so glad to work side-by-side with them as we build a state that gives every family opportunity," said Hobbs. "I look forward to continued partnership with Chairman Nuvangyaoma and the 22 tribal governments across our state. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the U.S. Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division said the condemnation filing initiates the process of eliminating the fragmented ownership of lands used by the Hopi Tribe for ranching in northeast Arizona, as outlined in the 1996 Settlement Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Arizona will receive just compensation for the land, and the Hopi Tribe will no longer have to deal with checkerboarded ownership, which will help improve its use for ranching and other agriculture activities," said Kim. Regarding the acquisition of additional land from the 110,000 acres placed into trust, Nuvangyaoma said the tribe plans to maintain the momentum and continue more discussions on future condemnation. The 20,000 acres is located in the Hart Ranch area near Twin Arrows Navajo Casino outside of Flagstaff, and Hopi officials are looking at potential development plans once they receive these acres. "We are looking at development," said Nuvangyaoma. "Because it was checkerboarded since '96, we have opportunity to see different forms of development out there. There's other things we want to work on in proximity of the City of Winslow with their partnership and collaboration." Arlyssa Becenti covers Indigenous affairs for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Send ideas and tips to arlyssa.becenti@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hopi Tribe to regain 20,000 acres in deal with state, feds A Horizon Air flight had to turn around and land after an eagle struck the plane. Around noon on December 24, Horizon Air flight 2041 took off from Anchorage, Alaska on its way to Fairbanks. Shortly afterward, a bird struck the plane, forcing the crew to turn around and land back in Anchorage, a spokesperson for the airline said. Once they landed, the airline swapped out the plane and the passengers continued safely on to Fairbanks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The captain and first officer are trained for these situations and landed the aircraft safely without any issue, a spokesperson for the airline told The Independent in a statement. No emergency was declared. The aircraft was removed from service for inspection and has since returned to service, the spokesperson added. Horizon Air is owned by Alaska Air Group, which also owns Alaska Airlines. A spokesperson for Horizon Air, owned by Alaska Air Group, said the crew was trained for the incident and no emergency was declared (AFP via Getty Images) Michelle Tatela, a passenger onboard the flight, told local outlet KTUU airline officials said an eagle hit the plane and it survived. The eagle survived at that time, Tatela told the outlet. And there were a bunch of police cars around the plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Normally, it would be a scarier situation, but knowing that it was a bird ... and then they said the eagle was going to the eagle hospital, and he had a broken wing, she added. Officials transported the bird to Alaska Bird Treatment and Learning Center in Anchorage. Executive Director Laura Atwood told KTUU the birds injuries which included an open fracture on its left wing were too extensive, and it was euthanized upon arrival. [Its a] Christmas Eve story, Tatela said. Were like, Only in Alaska, do you have to wait for a new plane, cause there was an eagle flying with you. This incident comes after a Jeju Air flight crashed in South Korea this week, killing 179 people. The airport control tower issued a bird strike warning shortly before the plane intended to land. The plane crashed after it skidded along the runway and rammed into a wall, which caused it to burst into flames. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) An Horry County man says the Myrtle Beach Mall and its security company are to blame for injuries he sustained in a violent 2023 parking lot assault. Stephen Michael Walker said he was sitting on the rear of his vehicle on Aug. 18, trying to avoid any confrontation with a crowd of people surrounding him. Several people then hit him in the face and knocked him to the ground, forcing him to crawl underneath his vehicle for protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walkers negligence lawsuit, filed Friday in Horry County Common Pleas Court, names the Myrtle Beach Mall, its parent company and Allied Universal Security as defendants. The complaint says Walker, who was badly beaten, called 911 after security services failed to intervene. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- In 2024, the global landscape has undergone profound transformations, marked by a series of challenges and conflicts. Amid these shifts, the Global South has risen with remarkable momentum, exerting a growing influence on human progress. With expanding economic power and growing political clout, the Global South has transitioned from being a long-discussed concept to a strong driving force actively shaping international politics. So what are the key factors behind its rapid surge? EXPANDING GLOBAL IMPACT The term "Global South" was first coined in 1969 by American political activist Carl Oglesby in his article about the Vietnam War. Today, it has become a prominent buzzword, representing a diverse group of developing nations advancing toward modernization and advocating for a more equitable global financial and political framework. Over the past year, several key moments have underscored this trend. In July, Belarus was officially welcomed as the 10th member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), enhancing SCO's capacity for regional cooperation and influence on the global stage. In September, the UN adopted the Pact for the Future at the Summit of the Future in New York. The pact responded to two key concerns of the Global South countries: the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the demand for better representation in global governance institutions. In the same month, the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a high-level security and defense forum in Asia-Pacific, also laid importance on the Global South by offering smaller developing countries a platform to address their security and development concerns. In October, the first in-person BRICS summit since the bloc's historic expansion was held in Kazan, Russia, following last year's pivotal meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. At the Kazan summit, a consensus was reached to invite a new group of countries to become BRICS partner nations, which further promoted the group's development. In November, the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and the 19th G20 Summit were held consecutively in Peru and Brazil. South Africa is poised to assume the G20 presidency in 2025, marking an unprecedented four consecutive terms of G20 presidency by Global South countries. Meanwhile, China is set to host the APEC summit in 2026. All of these show that the once marginalized Global South has emerged as one of the key drivers of the international agenda. GROWING ECONOMIC STRENGTH The rise of the Global South can be attributed to several factors, with its growing economic influence standing at the forefront. Despite a sluggish global economic recovery, the Global South nations have secured a steady economic growth and shown remarkable resilience. A report from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace revealed that since 2000, the G7's share of global GDP, as measured by purchasing power parity, has declined from 43 to 30 percent, while that of the five original BRICS countries has increased from just over 21 percent to nearly 35. According to the African Economic Outlook from the African Development Bank Group, the continent will retain its 2023 ranking as the second fastest-growing region in 2024 and 2025. The rebound in Africa's average growth includes a rise to 3.7 percent in 2024 and 4.3 percent in 2025, exceeding the projected global average of 3.2 percent. "In the next five years, world GDP will grow by 55 trillion U.S. dollars, 70 percent of which will come from the Global South," said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan at the G20 Summit, noting that this equals the size of the global economy two decades ago when the G20 was founded. This economic shift has gone hand in hand with an increasing demand from the Global South to reform global economic governance to better reflect their developmental aspirations. In a declaration issued at this year's summit, BRICS leaders agreed to jointly develop the New Development Bank (NDB) into a new type of multilateral development bank in the 21st century. They also pledged to support the further expansion of NDB membership and expedited consideration of applications of BRICS countries in line with the NDB General Strategy and related policies. Moreover, in addition to welcoming "the use of local currencies in financial transactions between BRICS countries and their trading partners," BRICS leaders encouraged the advancement of a BRICS Cross-Border Payments Initiative, designed to strengthen banking networks within BRICS to facilitate trade settlements among member countries. SHARED POLITICAL GOALS Western media and think tanks have long argued that the diverse challenges and distinct circumstances faced by countries in the Global South make it difficult for them to unite and form a cohesive front. However, the emergence of Global South nations as significant political players in the past year underscores how common political goals have empowered them to collaborate and assert greater influence. Many Global South countries were once colonies of Western nations. The shared experience of exploitation, cultural imposition, and economic extraction has fueled their determination to resist foreign interference. In 2024, several African nations like Niger, Chad, and Senegal have called for the withdrawal of Western troops from their territories, highlighting their efforts to assert sovereignty and pursue self-determined development paths. In addition, instead of following the lead of Western countries in addressing global challenges through sanctions and military interventions, the Global South has proposed its own solutions, advocating for peace, dialogue, and multilateralism. For instance, the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Third South Summit resulted in joint positions on critical issues, including the question of Palestine and the Ukraine crisis, underscoring the Global South's rejection of bloc politics and its commitment to fairness and justice. Another notable example of this collective political action is the "Friends of Peace" platform, which was launched by China, Brazil, and other like-minded Global South countries on the Ukraine crisis. Established at the United Nations, it seeks to accumulate conditions and create an atmosphere for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities and the resumption of peace talks. As Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated in his letter of congratulations to the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum, the Global South is ready to lead on the world stage to build a more inclusive and prosperous planet. "We are central players in the new global geopolitics, and we are ready to play a role commensurate with our political, economic and demographic weight," he said. Dec. 30Top House Republicans and fiscal conservatives celebrated the political death of the state's 3% Interest and Dividends Tax (I&D Tax) that completely comes off the books on Wednesday. New Hampshire will become the eighth state in the nation with no personal income tax. House Speaker Sherman Packard, R-Londonderry, said this further sets the state apart, joining Alaska as the only two without either a general sales or an income tax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike here, Alaska allows cities and towns to impose their own sales taxes; 107 communities in that state do so at rates ranging from 1% to 7%, and 5% in Juneau, the state capital. "When Granite Staters wake up Wednesday morning, they will be the only ones who can truly say their state is completely income and sales tax free," Packard said. At a ceremonial press conference sponsored by the fiscally conservative Americans for Prosperity (AFP) Monday, Packard dropped the bill that repealed the tax into a mock, life-sized black coffin. "This is my favorite funeral I have ever been at," said House Majority Leader Jason Osborne, R-Auburn, who led the campaign in 2023 to push forward by two years the timetable for getting rid of the tax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I like to call it the insidious and despicable tax." House Democratic Leader Alexis Simpson of Exeter and Senate Democratic Leader Rebecca Perkins Kwoka of Portsmouth warned about the consequences of doing without this tax that brought in $180 million in 2024. "Governor-elect Kelly Ayotte and state Republicans must be transparent for New Hampshire residents: What vital programs are they going to cut to balance the budget? Will they be willing to once again raise your property taxes by cutting state funding to education, health care, and childcare all to help the rich get richer?" Kwoka asked rhetorically. Packard said he's directed House budget writers to look at all options when it comes to cutting spending in the next two-year state budget; Ayotte is expected to present her plan on Feb. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legislators have cut when budgets got tight AFP Regional Director Greg Moore said New Hampshire lawmakers have proven able to cut state spending when the budget gets tight as they did in 2011, at the height of the last great recession, and in 2021, after COVID-19 ravaged all state economies. Drew Cline, president of the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, a leading state free-market think tank, said state revenues have grown 53% since 2014. "With state revenues $1.15 billion higher than they were a decade ago, it would be incorrect to claim that the state enters 2025 with a structural revenue shortfall," Cline said. "The problem is that plentiful new revenues were spent almost as quickly as they come in." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MacKenzie Nicholson, senior director of MomsRising New Hampshire, said many middle-income families were struggling to make ends meet. "It's pretty frustrating and disheartening to hear lawmakers celebrating a tax cut for the ultra-wealthy, with their billionaire special interests patting them on the back, when they know that this handout to the rich is going to be paid for by the rest of us who are already feeling the squeeze with cuts to services they depend on and higher property taxes," Nicholson said. According to JBS, 73% of those who paid the I&D tax paid less than $1,000 a year. While retirement account balances aren't subject to the tax, Cline said it's likely most paying it now are elderly who live on taking dividends from individual stocks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seniors pay the tax on anything above $3,600 of unearned income; all other adults get a tax exemption of $2,400 per person or $4,800 for a married couple. "Eliminating this tax is going to stop the state skimming off the investment revenues," Cline said. Getting rid of the tax for the wealthy will stimulate the state's economy, said Moore. He offered the case of former state Rep. Will Smith, R-New Castle, who, after losing his seat, changed his residency to Florida and stopped payments to an "angel" investment fund helping start-ups here. "When people like this leave it has a negative effect, we become a conveyor belt to shift people out of this state," Moore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis Hull, state coordinator for Americans for Tax Reform, said New Hampshire shouldn't "sit on its laurels" and look to the next tax break such as lowering the state taxes on business activity and room and meals or becoming the first state to eliminate its communications tax. "I believe this fundamentally strengthens the New Hampshire advantage," Hull said. klandrigan@unionleader.com Rep. Rich McCormick (R-Ga.) said he will likely back Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) in the leadership vote this week, but hes still not a firm yes. McCormick joined NewsNations The Hill on Monday and was asked if hed vote for Johnson on Friday. Most likely, he replied. We have decisions to be making, and we have to discuss with each other about 10 people who are leaning. And what that means is we want reassurances, McCormick continued. Im not really sure were taking the debt seriously. Im not really sure were doing the right things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House will vote on Friday for its next Speaker. Johnsons leadership position hangs in the balance, as some hard-line conservatives are upset with his negotiations on the continuing resolution and the aid sent to Ukraine. President-elect Trump has given an endorsement to Johnson, potentially swaying some who were wavering about voting for the sitting Speaker. However, some Republicans are unconvinced. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) said he wouldnt be voting for Johnson and disagreed with Trumps endorsement. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) said he would need more conversation with Johnson before deciding later this week. Like Burchett, McCormick said he wants to speak more with Johnson before he votes for him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want a specific plan. When we talk about what we are going to make our cuts, how are we going to save this nation from bankruptcy? McCormick later added, I just dont think we have a plan. The Georgia lawmaker expressed frustration with Congress, saying he doesnt think elected officials are taking this seriously. I need to see exact plans, what were going to do, how were going to tackle this, so that I know that were going to actually have something thats not going to be passed because 100 percent of Democrats vote for it, he said. McCormick also rebuked the criticism of Trump over the budget issue, saying its up to Congress to be responsible for the budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He can have his own ideas, but ultimately, its up to us to be responsible and pass a budget thats somewhat responsible, because we havent done that in about 30 years, McCormick said. NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Former Cook County states attorney candidate Clayton Harris III on Thursday will take over as chief of staff to House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, the speakers office confirmed on Tuesday. Harris, who narrowly lost to Eileen ONeill Burke in the Democratic primary for states attorney this spring, replaces Tiffany Moy, who has been Welchs chief of staff since 2021. The speaker also announced that Isabel Izzy Dobbel, political director at the Chicago Federation of Labor, will join his office later in January as deputy chief of staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Welch in a statement said Harris and Dobbel will continue efforts to improve and modernize the speakers office. I look forward to all we can accomplish together in the 104th General Assembly and beyond, Welch said. As a candidate for states attorney, Harris said he favored a balanced approach to public safety. ONeill Burke, who positioned herself as tougher on crime, was better funded in the primary to succeed Kim Foxx, the outgoing top prosecutor. Harris has previously leaned into his experience in management and government and as a Black man living on the citys South Side. In the states attorney race, he had the backing of the Cook County Democratic Party and the Chicago Teachers Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris became an assistant states attorney in 1999, and has previously said it was taxing to just see Black men coming through the system constantly. He worked with Mayor Richard M. Daleys office starting in 2003, and later as general counsel at the Chicago Department of Transportation. Harris role with Welch wont be his first time running an office: he previously served as chief of staff for the Illinois Department of Transportation and as a deputy chief of staff for Gov. Rod Blagojevich, a job he held at the time Blagojevich was arrested and charged with political corruption. Blagojevichs chief of staff was also arrested, and Harris then took over that job, though he has said he is not a political supporter of Blagojevich. Harris has a law degree from Howard University. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Hundreds of people lined up at The Peoples House on Pennsylvania Avenue to sign a condolence book paying their respects to the late President Jimmy Carter on Monday. We just thanked him for his years of service and the things he did after, really just the dedication to the country, said visitor Manisha Shafir. Jimmy Carter to receive state funeral in DC in January Carter passed away Sunday almost two years after entering hospice care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our first president to reach the age of 100 years old and 44 years since he left the presidency and has accomplished so much in that time, said Stewart McLaurin with the White House Historical Association. The White House Historical Association placed the book at the museum for members of the public to pay their respects. The 39th president of the United States was a Georgia peanut farmer who sought to restore trust in government when he assumed the presidency in 1977 and then built a reputation for tireless work as a humanitarian, the Associated Press reported. Many remember his presidency marked by brokering a peace deal between Egypt and Israel, the end of the Vietnam War, Cold War pressures and turbulent oil markets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I actually remember being in a gas line. So being in a line to get gasoline with my mom when I was little, said visitor Amanda Crowley. I think his legacy will be one of service. His post-presidency I think has been marked by that. By service to not only the country but to his fellow man and thats what hell be best remembered for, said visitor Doug Furness. Photos: Jimmy Carter, from the White House to building houses After his presidency, Carter dedicated himself to promoting peace and human rights and building homes for Habitat for Humanity. I just left a message about his diplomacy and his hope for mankind, Crowley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can still come by to sign the book until Jan. 9. The book will be given to the Carter family and eventually end up in the Carter Library in Georgia. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Ready or not, Idahos 2025 Legislative Session starts on Jan. 6. Many important policies will be considered ranging from education choice to tax reform. There will also likely be a surprise or two. It is of paramount importance for Idahoans to have the ability to be actively involved and heard by their elected officials during this lawmaking process. Unfortunately, it is currently more difficult than it should be for this to occur. While the Idaho Legislature commendably provides the opportunity for remote testimony, it is needlessly difficult to sign up for committee notifications. I know this from firsthand experience. Without a master listserv signup for committee updates, those wanting these important legislative notifications are required to go committee by committee. You also cant sign up consecutively. Theres a required waiting period between each signup. This is the warning you receive if trying to sign up rapidly: You need to wait for some time before subscribing again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This waiting period meant it took me a full week to complete the signup process for all the committees. This is incredibly inefficient and is not the case in neighboring states. Most state legislatures use a master email listserv. They also dont require you to resubscribe after every session. Not only is it difficult to sign up for committee updates in Idaho, but the notices are not sent with enough time for citizens to be able to make plans to participate in their governance. Far too often committee updates are sent the night before a hearing instead of the standard best practice of three to five days in advance. To help maximize public involvement in their governance, Idaho lawmakers should amend their rules to require at least three days notice of the bills to be heard at public hearings. Providing advance notice of bills scheduled for public hearings is a standard practice among states. This will help provide busy citizens with the time needed to adjust schedules if they wish to provide comments on pending legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This type of common-sense transparency reform has tremendous public support. Our recent Idaho Poll found 92% support for requiring three-day notice for legislative public hearings. Here are examples of legislative rules requiring advance notice of bills scheduled for public hearings. Washington five-day notice: 1) At least five days notice shall be given of all public hearings held by any committee other than the rules committee. Such notice shall contain the date, time and place of such hearing together with the title and number of each bill, or identification of the subject matter, to be considered at such hearing. By a majority vote of the committee members present at any committee meeting such notice may be dispensed with. The reason for such action shall be set forth in a written statement preserved in the records of the meeting. 2) No committee may hold a public hearing during a regular or extraordinary session on a proposal identified as a draft unless the draft has been made available to the public at least twenty-four hours prior to the hearing. This rule does not apply during the five days prior to any cutoff established by concurrent resolution, nor does it apply to any measure exempted from the resolution. Montana three-day notice: Notice of a committee hearing must be made by posting the date, time, and subject of the hearing online and in a conspicuous public place not less than three legislative days in advance of the hearing. To help maximize Idahoans participation in their governance, lawmakers should adopt the following legislative transparency best practices: Utilize a master email listserv subscription for all committee updates; Subscription notifications do not expire after the session; Provide a three-day notice for all public hearings and agendas (automatically emailed to those subscribed); Post all bill amendments in advance for committees and floor action; and Post the room number on the legislative website where lawmaker offices are located at the capitol building. Whether we are entrepreneurs, parents, students, members of a trade group, or even a lawmaker, it is important to have meaningful public notice of when a bill is going to be available for a public hearing and what the actual text of that proposal is. Only then can we rearrange our schedules, review, and prepare to provide the testimony lawmakers need to help advance good policy for the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Requiring at least a three-day notice of bills scheduled for a public hearing will help improve the information available not only for citizens but also for lawmakers as bills advance through the legislative process. Jason Mercier is Vice President and Director of Research of Mountain States Policy Center, a research organization based in Idaho, Montana, Eastern Washington and Wyoming. Online at mountainstatespolicy.org . ST. LOUIS As the clock strikes midnight and 2025 has officially rung in, many may want to celebrate the new year with a bang and shoot off fireworks. Still, this may be an issue based on the firework regulations throughout the St. Louis region. In the state of Missouri, large fireworks displays will typically require a permit obtained from the Division of Fire Safety. These permits are required to discharge explosives larger than matches, toy pistols, toy canons, party poppers, and other compounds that contain more than .025 grains of explosive material, according to state law. In Illinois, the sale, possession, and use of Consumer Fireworks are banned. Consumer Fireworks that are illegal include Roman candles, bottle rockets, chasers, and firecrackers, according to state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LIST: Where to celebrate New Years Eve around St. Louis Despite this restriction, the state does allow fireworks such as sparklers, smoke devices, and party poppers, etc. Violating these restrictions in Illinois could result in up to one year in prison and a $2,500 fine. St. Louis City In the city of St. Louis, fireworks are illegal, and violations could mean up to 90 days in jail or $500 in fines, according to the citys website. St. Louis County Within St. Louis County, residents can acquire a permit to shoot off fireworks; otherwise, they are illegal to purchase and shoot off. Permits need to be acquired at least 10 days prior to the fireworks display, according to the county website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who violates the time restriction could face a fine of up to $500. St. Charles County In St. Charles County, fireworks are only legal between the hours of 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 12:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, according to county law. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Lincoln County Lincoln County remains within Missouri state law regarding fireworks, while some municipalities may have differing regulations. Franklin County Municipalities within Franklin County also abide by state law concerning shooting off fireworks, while some areas may have their own regulations. Jefferson County Jefferson County also regulates fireworks based on Missouri state law; some areas may have their own regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. NORMAL, Ill. (WMBD) From the naming of a new president to students being arrested after protesting the Israel-Hamas War, Illinois State University saw plenty of changes in 2024. The Redbirds started the year with increasing the differential tuition rates for certain programs. A decision, board of trustee members said they did not take lightly. Five programs seeing a tuition rate increase at ISU The decision came down to a two-to-five vote with the board approving differential tuition rates for nursing, college of business, cybersecurity and computer science, beginning in the fall of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The programs were recommended based on field of study, demand, cost of instruction and market value of the degree. The newly approved engineering program will also have the same 15 percent rate increase once it starts in the fall of 2025. Im very concerned that when we approved the college of engineering, this was not on the table as far as pricing for college of engineering, said Trustee secretary Dr. Robert Navarro at a January meeting. We said we were going to make a very conscious effort to go out and recruit underrepresented students into that program. And I just dont think differential tuition will do that. Illinois State University trustees approve new president after yearlong search After serving for a year as interim president, in March Dr. Aondover Tarhule was officially named ISUs 21st president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would ask all ISU leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni, ISU foundation board members, and the Bloomington-Normal community to support Dr. Tarhule as he works to move Illinois State forward, said board chair Dr. Kathryn Bohn. Seven ISU protestors plead to misdemeanor trespassing for May 3 Gaza protests War overseas also impacted the Redbird community. At the end of April, students and faculty started a peaceful protest in support of Palestine in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war. In May, seven students were arrested for criminal trespass to state land and criminal trespass to a building. This came after they had a meeting with Tarhule in Hovey Hall. They remained in the building after hours and after several warnings to leave. In October, each person pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 18 months court supervision and ordered to pay more than $700 in fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also in May, the United Faculty of ISU Union packed a board of trustees meeting accusing the university of endorsing a culture of bullying. Ive heard the phrase I used to love working here, but now I dont so many times. said Sheryl Henry, associate professor of nursing. They say they fear retaliation in the current culture by being assigned to multiple new preps, not being supported for tenure, not being considered for honors or sabbatical leave. The faculty union also advocated for better working conditions. Our working conditions are students learning conditions, so we want to best for ourselves so our students get the best experience across the board, said Mark Zablocki, associate professor of education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May continued to be a busy month for the university as the board of trustees voted to increase mandatory student, housing and dining fees. Im perfectly comfortable with the dining and housing fee increases. I think those are market based and thats what the market will bear, said Trustee Scott Jenkins. But on the fee schedule side, we continue to increase fees and tuition, which ends up being a tax on students and families. ISU raising student fees Unfortunately, everything is going up as we know groceries are going up, wages are going up, we have some deferred maintenance that we periodically need to take care of, said Bohn. And were trying to be responsible but we also need to keep the university running at the high level that it currently is running at. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois State University welcomes largest entering class ever The whirlwind from the spring semester settled, and the university started the fall semester strong with more than 4,200 first-year students. Since 1857, no freshman class has been larger than this one, said Jeff Mavros, executive director for admissions and recruitment marketing. While aware of the challenges the growing university faces, Tarhule is confident everything will come together. Whether its academic programming, campus renovations, the new engineering college, like I mentioned diversity, all of these are the things that we know we need to do as an institution in order to thrive and be resilient, said Tarhule. Im very confident that weve got the pieces, weve got the time, weve got the people, and we can do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) After San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Nora Vargas announced her decision to vacate her position at the end of her current term, three people have announced their desire to sit in her place. Vargas announced plans to step down from elected office at the conclusion of her first term on Dec. 20, stating that her decision was based on personal safety and security. It has been my honor to serve in public office during unprecedented times, including the past four years on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Vargas said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vivian Moreno launches bid for Vargas seat on Board of Supervisors Since then, San Diego City Councilmember Vivian Moreno and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann have expressed their interest in running to fill her vacancy. The latest to throw in her name for the bid is Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre, who announced her intent to run on Monday. South County has been ignored for too long and Im ready to change that, she stated on her campaign website. From fighting the sewage crisis polluting our air and water to standing up for working families and demanding our fair share, we need bold leadership now more than ever, she said on Instagram. As Mayor of Imperial Beach and a lifelong environmental advocate, Im not afraid of making waves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under board policies, the supervisors will be required to decide within seven business days of a vacancy opening how they plan to fill it. This could either be by appointment or through a special election. Vargas, who was the first person of color and Latina to hold elected office on the board, stated in her announcement about her decision to step down that her priority has always been our community, ensuring that everyone can be seen, heard and have a chance to thrive. As a Guerrera at my core, I remain committed to continuing the fight for equity, justice, and human rights just in a different capacity, Vargas added. I look forward to staying whole-heartedly engaged and active in the pursuit of a more equitable society. Juliette Vara contributed to this report Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday exchanged New Year greetings with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to Putin and the Russian people. Xi said that 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic relations, a new significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. Looking back on the extraordinary journey in the past 75 years, China-Russia relations have grown more mature and stable, he said. In face of accelerating transformation unseen in a century and a volatile international landscape, China and Russia always move forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party, Xi said. Over the past year, the two heads of state held three meetings in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan, and maintained communication through phone calls, exchanges of letters, and other means, Xi said, adding that they had candid exchanges of views and reached broad consensus on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues of common concern. The political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have been advancing toward higher levels under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, he added. Practical cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible outcomes, such as the completion of the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline, and the successful launch of the China-Russia Years of Culture has fostered a closer bond connecting the two peoples through generations, Xi said. China and Russia also support each other as chairs of the BRICS mechanism and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, contributing significantly to solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, he added. Noting that 2025 marks the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period and the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, Xi said that no matter how the international landscape evolves, China remains committed to deepening comprehensive reforms, advancing Chinese modernization, and promoting global peace and development. Xi also expressed confidence that China-Russia cooperation in various fields would continue to create new opportunities for growth. The Chinese president voiced readiness to maintain close exchanges with Putin and keep China-Russia cooperation on the right course so as to continue consolidating and deepening China-Russia ties featuring permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation, injecting strong momentum into the development and modernization of the two countries, and contributing to the well-being of the two peoples and safeguarding international fairness and justice. INDIANAPOLISAlthough almost 90 percent of Hoosiers support legalizing medicinal marijuana, Republican leaders have signaled that might not happen next session. With regard to medical marijuana, I really have, its no secret that Im not for this, Indiana Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray said during the 2024 Dentons Legislative Conference earlier this month. I dont have people coming to me with really compelling medical cases as to why its so beneficial. Brays counterpart in the Indiana House, Speaker Todd Huston, echoed similar sentiments during the conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will push back on were behind, because Im not sure what were behind on, Huston said. If were behind on having fewer people use an addictive substance, I dont know, Im okay with that. Bray went on to say he hoped lawmakers would shift their focus next session from marijuana to Delta-8a psychoactive substance found in hemp. Is that a legal product? Is that something that should be legal? If it is, it certainly, I think, I think anyone would argue that it needs to be regulated in some way, shape, or form, Bray said. There is no current age requirement on hemp use, Alicia Tucker, Treasurer of the Indiana branch of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Tucker, the Midwest Hemp Council is pushing for legislation that would create a regulatory framework for the hemp industry in Indiana. If we could get a hearing on the hemp billI think that that bill is going to really provide the framework for the medical marijuana bills and the recreational bills, Tucker said. In a statement, the Safe and Regulated Indiana Coalition said: As we shared with our recent survey, 7 of 10 Hoosier voters agree that its time legalize marijuana for those age twenty-one and over in a safe and regulated manner, similar to alcohol. Our growing coalition is looking forward to working with the Indiana General Assembly this legislative session to be sure Hoosier voices are heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement -Joe Elsener, Safe and Regulated Coalition In response to her Republican colleagues comments, Indiana Senate Minority Leader Shelli Yoder said her caucus will still push for reasonable, regulated access to medical marijuana next session. If we work together in a bipartisan way, we can create a well-regulated market for Hoosiers who desperately want access, Yoder said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTTV CBS4Indy. Indianas last remaining habitat for one of the worlds rarest butterfly species is now permanently protected thanks to the quick work of a local conservation group. Central Indiana Land Trust (CILTI) purchased the unique 13-acre wetland habitat in northern Indiana just south of the Michigan border home to the endangered Mitchells satyr butterfly for $380,000 from private owners. The trust will hold the property until the Indiana Department of Natural Resources can put the money together to buy the land. Cliff Chapman, the land trust's executive director, said it was a humbling experience to be part of saving such a unique part of the states environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think this is something thats really important for all of us in Indiana, Chapman said. That we had such a gem that was still out there, and we were able to save it is a story for all of us. The nonprofit land trust will sell the land to the state at a discount once DNR is ready to purchase it. Due to the sensitive nature of the habitat, the property will not be open to the public. The Mitchell's Satyr is one of the rarest butterflies in the world. The species only has one remaining habitat in Indiana, and a conservation group bought the land to permanently preseve. Saving a satyr The property features a peat-bearing wetland called a fen, and the Mitchells satyr is only found in these rare habitats that take thousands of years to develop. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service first listed the butterfly as an endangered species in 1992 noting human-caused degradation and destruction of the species habitat as one of the primary reasons the butterfly was at risk of extinction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mitchells satyr has always been geographically restricted, but its historic range has dwindled to only nine locations in Michigan and one in Indiana with a few restricted areas in Virginia, Mississippi and Alabama. Scott Fetters, a private lands biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said fens are globally rare and most of them are so severely degraded that they arent providing the habitats they were 30 years ago. Searching for satyrs: Sarett naturalists chase rare, endangered butterfly in its brief, winged life Mitchells satyr butterflies are pollinators, and Fetters said they are an overall indicator of the health of their environments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As habitat continues to decrease, every species that blips out on us is one less species we have, Fetters said. The USFWS previously acquired 35 acres of land adjacent to the newly purchased fen and was able to coordinate with the property owners and CILTI to get the fen protected. That purchase also includes habitat for the butterfly. CILTI will bring in a butterfly expert from Michigan to set up protocols for future Mitchell's satyr surveys in the fen, Chapman said. This work will help DNR monitor the wetland's health in the future. The wetland fen in northern Indiana is the last habitat in the state for the endangered Mitchell's Satyr butterfly. Coordinating the fen purchase When the private owners wanted to sell the land, they wanted to do it quickly, Chapman said. Developers had been eyeing the area for a while, but the owners held off until and CILTI was able to offer permanent protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We paid the appraised value so the owners didnt have to make a sacrifice, Chapman said. Sometimes people think selling to a land trust means you have to take less money, but we paid what a developer would have paid because its worth it. Fetters was instrumental in bringing the private fen owners to the table with CILTI for the 13-acre purchase. The USFWS began negotiations to buy the property but was ultimately unable to come up with the money to meet the seller's timeline. Thats where CILTI stepped in and bought it and made it happen," Fetters said. "They did that in less than three months. State agencies cannot move on land purchases that quickly, either, so CILTI will care for the property until DNR has filed the necessary paperwork and has the money to buy it. Chapman thinks the property will go to the state in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karl Schneider is an IndyStar environment reporter. You can reach him at karl.schneider@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @karlstartswithk or BlueSky @karlstartswithk.bsky.social IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana group saves remaining habitat for endangered butterfly A London home was targeted in a $13M jewelry heist. MailOnline says the owner is a rich influencer. The victims are offering a large reward for people who help get the jewels back. $1.3M is for information leading to their return, and $627K more for helping secure a conviction. The victims of a $13 million jewelry heist in a wealthy London neighborhood are offering a hefty reward. More than a million dollars is pledged to people who can give information leading to the jewels' return and the thieves' conviction. London's Metropolitan Police said in a news release on Monday that jewelry worth 10.4 million (around $13 million) was stolen on December 7 from the Primrose Hill neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the stolen items were a 10.73-carat Graff diamond ring, two De Beers butterfly diamond rings, and other luxury items from Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, and Hermes, according to police. Some $190,000 worth of Hermes Crocodile Kelly handbags were also taken, as was 15,000 in cash, police said. The targeted property is on Avenue Road, which has some of the most expensive properties in London including the residences of the ambassadors from Sri Lanka and Israel. MailOnline identified the home as belonging to Shafira Huang, a wealthy socialite and Instagram influencer with some 13,000 followers. Huang's profile was private as of Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Images provided by the Met of stolen items included a bespoke diamond bangle with the name "Shafira" on it. Business Insider was unable to reach Huang for comment. The Met, in an email to Business Insider, declined to comment on the identity of the victim. The Met confirmed that the victims are offering two separate rewards. Those who provide information that leads to the retrieval of the stolen jewelry would receive 10% of the recovered items' valuation, amounting to a potential total of a little over $1.3 million. In addition to this, the Met said the victims are offering an additional reward of 500,000 (about $627,000) to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, there's about $1,927,000 up for grabs. The police gave a description of a suspect: a white man in his late 20s or early 30s, of medium build. They said he covered his face during a break-in. Paulo Roberts, an officer in the investigation, described it as a "brazen" offense that "violated the sanctuary of the victims' home." In a statement, he said: "The suspect has stolen 10.4m worth of jewelry, much of which is sentimental and unique in its design, and therefore easily identifiable." Luxury theft is a growing problem in London, which has the sixth highest number of billionaires of any city in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a review of police data by the criminal defense law firm Lawtons, the number of luxury thefts in the city rose by 22% between February 2023 and February 2024. Read the original article on Business Insider POMEROY, Iowa (KCAU) The Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation is currently investigating a shooting that was reported in Pomeroy, a small town in Calhoun County about 30 miles west of Fort Dodge, Tuesday morning. According to DCI, they are assisting local law enforcement in the investigation. 6 arrested for drug, weapon trafficking in Sioux County Due the shooting incident still being an active investigation, officials were unable to release more information at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. KCAU 9 will continue to provide updates as we learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Students observe a pocket prairie installed by teacher Mark Dorhout who leads an outdoor education program at the middle school in Panora. (Photo courtesy of Mark Dorhout) A science class for middle school students at Panorama Middle School commonly involves a trek out to the prairie behind the school, a sketch of native seeds under the microscope or a homework assignment to track the progress of a backyard bluebird from its birdhouse. Teacher Mark Dorhout created an outdoor education program at the middle school in Panora to connect (students) to the natural world, foster environmental stewardship, and give students a real-world application to the science they learn in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dorhout, who has a degree in wildlife and fisheries sciences, spent the majority of his career teaching or administering at middle schools and has been teaching sixth through eighth grade science at Panorama Middle School for four years. He started the outdoor education program by taking students out to a recently restored prairie behind the school, and using the schools backyard in his lessons as much as possible. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This has been a long-standing passion of mine that has become more and more apparent as we move along in this society, Dorhout said. And really the main thrust to that is that kids are out less and less into this environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now the class and its non-traditional classroom has a reputation among the middle schoolers all of whom will go through the project, make a birdhouse, and get to meet Dorhouts Labrador retriever, which never misses a field day. Dorhout said hes thankful the school district has been very supportive of the program and works with him to supply materials and promote the course in newsletters to parents. They get it, Dorhout said of his district. They understand the value of a program like this. Dorhout said the 11-acre prairie behind the school has been there for over 20 years but really fell out of use until seven or so years ago when the local members of the Izaak Walton League worked to grub out some of the trees that had overtaken the area, and replant it to prairie. Mark Dorhout uses a drone to capture photos of the prairie behind the middle school in Panora. Dorhout said before they leave the middle school, every student learns how to fly the drone. (Photo courtesy of Mark Dorhout) Each grade has a different project. Seventh graders build either a bluebird or a wren box that they take home, hang on a tree, and monitor through the rest of their time in middle school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They never knew that there was the whole other thing going on and then all of a sudden theyve started paying attention to the birds in the neighborhood, Dorhout said. Eighth grade students get to work in the greenhouse as part of their curriculum on genetics and climate change. Last year he added sixth graders to his docket and uses the prairie for their lessons in water quality and chemistry. Dorhout said going out and conducting water quality tests gives the students a real life application of the chemistry they learn in the classroom. And all of the students get about 50 field days over the course of their time in middle school. Throughout the program, Dorhout has his students gather seeds, add plants into the prairie and analyze what makes one section of the prairie better than another. All of it leads to pretty rich conversations around soil quality and biodiversity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kids that you wouldnt think would like doing prairie work, just totally get into it, Dorhout said. Brody Steenblock, a ninth grade student at Panorama High School who went through Dorhouts program, grew up hunting and farming and said he considered himself outdoorsy, but that Dorohouts class was a next level of outdoors. Steenblock said he persuaded his parents to plant multiple acres of the prairie grasses he learned about in the class, as part of the Conservation Reserve Program on their farm. I dont think we probably would have planted it, if it wasnt for the outdoor ed, Steenblock said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steenblock said the class sparked a lot of interest in him and he recalls that it was the favorite class for many of his peers as well. There was just a whole bunch of kids that either just were not doing the best in school, and couldnt pay attention in school, and then, you get to Mr. Dorhouts class, and kids were just like a whole different person, Steenblock said. Mark Dorhout holds up an example of one of the birdhouses that every seventh grader takes home and monitors. (Screenshot from Iowa Division of the Izaak Walton League) Cross curricular Dorhout spoke about his class during a Watershed Talk with the Iowa Division of the Izaak Walton League of America Dec. 17. Mike Delaney, a member of the league and a prairie advocate who lives near Dorhout, called the outdoor education program phenomenal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive been thinking about prairie as a teaching tool, and Im not sure theres any limits to what you can get into, Delaney said. Anything you want to do you can use prairie as an example, and thats what youre doing. Dorhout doesnt teach just science in his classroom, but engages students across disciplines. The middle schoolers each keep a journal where they take down field observations and are encouraged to draw diagrams and doodles of what they study. Dorhout has also posted the cardinal directions on each of the four walls of his classroom with a corresponding theme. The north wall, for example, faces the prairie and is labeled with environment, the east wall faces town and says community, South is recreation and West is legacy. He has students write notes about each of these elements and post them up on the wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I always try to get them to understand where were at in this world, Dorhout said. Students also get about 25 minutes of moderate exercise every time they walk to the prairie, and on days where the school has an unusual schedule, hell take his classes to do longer hikes at Lake Panorama, which is walking distance from the school. Dorhout has also been known to turn a blind eye to some of the fun like perhaps a friendly snowball fight that inevitably takes place between 20-30 middle schoolers in the open air. Just enough organization so we can have a meaningful lesson, and just enough goof around time that the kids think that its awesome, he said. Lasting impact Dorhout said one of the coolest things about the prairie is its visibility from the school and to the community. This means as the students get older, they can still see it and remember the work they did to improve that land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just see that as a really powerful thing, when you look at the life of a prairie and what it looks like now compared to what it did six years ago when you guys first started this reconstruction, Dorhout said. This was also Steenblocks favorite part of the class. He started seeds in sixth grade and throughout his time in middle school he got to watch them develop through the prairie. We can still go back to this day and then see what we had done because we were part of that, Steenblock said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Earlier this year, a federal judge sentenced a former IRS contractor to five years in prison for leaking the tax returns of multiple high-profile billionaires. The case involves genuine wrongdoing by someone entrusted with people's private information. But a new report from the U.S. Treasury Department found the IRS itself was routinely negligent with taxpayer documents in its possession. "The IRS receives and creates a significant volume of sensitive documents and is responsible for protecting these sensitive documents from receipt to disposal," according to a report from the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Specifically, federal agencies must "shred, burn, mulch, pulp, or pulverize sensitive documents beyond recognition and reconstruction." The TIGTA report notes that since 2009, the IRS has contracted with an unnamed "outside national vendor" to do this. The vendor provides IRS facilities with locked bins to store sensitive documents, which are later picked up to dispose of the documents securely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This vendor services "387 (75 percent) of 514 IRS facilities," the report notes, while another 17 facilities contract with local companies. But for the rest, it's apparently a free-for-all: "We found that the IRS is unaware of what sensitive document destruction capabilities are in place for the 110 facilities not covered under a contract. For example, the IRS initially thought the Andover, Massachusetts, facility was covered by a local sensitive document destruction contract. After we inquired about the contract, the IRS discovered that this facility was not covered by any contract." When the auditors then performed a site visit at that facility, they found "trash containers being used for all waste, including sensitive documents that contained tax information and Personally Identifiable Information." (U.S. Treasury Department Inspector General) The auditors also conducted seven other site visits, during which they found that "some bins were unlocked, altered, and/or damaged," including in such a way that inspectors "were able to reach their hands through the bin disposal slot and easily retrieve discarded sensitive documents." At one facility in Ogden, Utah, inspectors even found an open trash can labeled "Classified Trash Only." According to the report, "IRS management instructed employees at this facility to store sensitive documents in these open containers, so employees did not have to leave their desks to throw the sensitive waste in the secured sensitive document destruction bins." (U.S. Treasury Department Inspector General for Tax Administration) "The IRS has yet to establish or communicate to personnel at its various facilities the standard operating procedures for sensitive document destruction," the report notesdespite the fact that the agency had previously acknowledged the need to develop standard procedures after a 2009 TIGTA report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report "is the latest evidence the agency does not care about taxpayer privacy despite an enormous infusion of taxpayer funds," according to Americans for Tax Reform. "The IRS is failing taxpayers in this area." It's unlikely that anyone will face serious consequences for these lapsesthe report makes no mention of anyone being fired. But it's worth noting that for anybody else who misuses taxpayer information, the consequences are severe. In 2020, The New York Times published stories drawn from then-President Donald Trump's tax returns, which the authors said "reveal the hollowness, but also the wizardry, behind the self-made-billionaire image." The following year, ProPublica reported details from the tax returns of uberwealthy tech CEOs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg. According to a 2023 indictment filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, IRS contractor Charles Littlejohn was the source of the information. "From in or about 2018 until in or about 2020," prosecutors state, Littlejohn "stole tax returns and return information associated withthousands of the nation's wealthiest people, including returns and return information dating back more than 15 years." Since then, the IRS has twice sent out notices to taxpayers whose information Littlejohn may have stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The indictment charged Littlejohn with unauthorized disclosure of tax returns and return informationa felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000and he pleaded guilty in October 2023. According to his plea agreement, federal guidelines recommend a prison sentence between eight months and 14 months. Prosecutors recommended the maximum of five years, citing "the need for general deterrence" and that "the scope and scale of Defendant's unlawful disclosures appear to be unparalleled in the IRS's history." Littlejohn's attorneys countered that he "committed this offense not for personal gain, not out of personal malice, but out of a belief that his violation of law would serve the public interest.The defendant was wrong to violate the law even if he believed it would serve the public interest. It is also wrong for the Government to request six times the Guidelines maximum on the facts of this case." District Judge Ana Reyes sided with the government, sentencing Littlejohn to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $5,000 fine. At the sentencing hearing, she seemed incredulous that prosecutors only charged Littlejohn with a single felony count. "Someone can steal thousands and thousands and thousands of taxpayers' information, and the only count that the government could possibly bring is a disclosure count?" Reyes asked. "Because I'm confident that that's not the case." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri, U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (ROhio), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, indicated he would be "opening an inquiry into the DOJ's unusual and questionable leniency" toward Littlejohn. "The DOJ's decision to pursue just one charge for thousands of separate criminal acts is highly concerning, and the Committee worries that the DOJ's decision may be politically motivated." It's not clear from Jordan's letter what he would have preferred. Perhaps justice was not served by lumping together the thousands of returns Littlejohn stole under a single charge, but it would not be the best practice to charge him with thousands of felonies, either. Nonetheless, prosecutors threw the book at Littlejohn, even though he only released a handful of returns that he felt were newsworthy to journalists. This is not to defend his actions: It should surprise no one that Donald Trump's image is built on smoke and mirrors or that billionaires like Bezos, Musk, and Zuckerberg make every possible effort to lower their tax burdens, and it certainly does not justify the massive invasion of privacy that Littlejohn undertook. But it's worth considering that as prosecutors, a judge, and lawmakers competed to ramp up Littlejohn's punishment, the fact that numerous IRS offices were simply mishandling taxpayer data as a matter of course was treated like business as usual. The post IRS Failed To Properly Dispose of Sensitive Tax Documents, Report Finds appeared first on Reason.com. ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (AP) Ivory Coast announced on Tuesday that French troops will leave the country after a decadeslong military presence, the latest African nation to downscale military ties with its former colonial power. Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara said the pullout would begin in January 2025. France has had up to 600 troops in Ivory Coast. We have decided on the concerted and organized withdrawal of French forces in Ivory Coast, he said, adding that the military infantry battalion of Port Bouet that is run by the French army will be handed over to Ivorian troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outtara's announcement follows that of other leaders across West Africa, where Frances militaries are being asked to leave. Analysts have described the requests for French troops to leave Africa as part of the wider structural transformation in the regions engagement with Paris. France has suffered similar setbacks in several West African countries in recent years, including Chad, Niger and Burkina Faso, where French troops that have been on the ground for many years have been kicked out. Several West African nations including coup-hit Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have recently asked the French to leave. Among them are also most recently Senegal, and Chad, considered Frances most stable and loyal partner in Africa. The downscaling of military ties comes as France has been making efforts to revive its waning political and military influence on the continent by devising a new military strategy that would sharply reduce its permanent troop presence in Africa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France has now been kicked out of more than 70% of African countries where it had a troop presence since ending its colonial rule. The French remain only in Djibouti, with 1,500 soldiers, and Gabon, with 350 troops. Analysts have described the developments as part of the wider structural transformation in the regions engagement with Paris amid growing local sentiments against France, especially in coup-hit countries. After expelling French troops, military leaders of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have moved closer to Russia, which has mercenaries deployed across the Sahel who have been accused of abuses against civilians. However, the security situation has worsened in those countries, with increasing numbers of extremist attacks and civilian deaths from both armed groups and government forces. Carlos Migoya is proof that the remarkable Cuban-American story, which has played out in Miami repeatedly, is similar to the story of many Jewish-American, Irish-American and other hyphenated peoples stories. All share the word American, and thats no coincidence. Eleven-year-old Migoya and his parents fled communist Cuba for the United States in 1961, seeking a better life for the family. But it wasnt easy. During his recent acceptance of the National Human Relations Award from the American Jewish Committee, Migoya reminded us that Miami was a chilly place for minorities when he arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migoya has been described, Id say rightly, as the most interesting man in Miami. He attended Miami Dade College, earned two degrees from Florida International University. He has succeeded in multiple industries and roles, from commercial banker to Miami city manager and transformative CEO of Jackson Health System since 2011. He is a role model for his many civic achievements as well as his extraordinary selflessness. The National Human Relations Award is presented annually to a business and community leader who personifies the mission and values of AJC, a global advocacy organization that works to protect Jews and other minorities, supports Israel and promotes democracy and freedom in South Florida and around the world. Migoya joined an impressive roster of past NHRA recipients who have helped shape our culturally rich, economically strong, and respectfully diverse community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, when accepting the award, Migoya acknowledged that our community is far from perfect despite its significant progress. We have come a long way, but not far enough. Migoya recalled being blocked from promotion at his first job because he was Cuban, similar to Jews being excluded from schools and clubs or when Black leaders could not stop Interstate 95 from dividing their historic downtown Miami Black community. At the same time, Migoya displayed his trademark optimism in his acceptance speech, when he reminded todays generation of local leaders that our community has never let our imperfection dampen our work toward something more perfect. He realized he had much in common with Jewish and Black colleagues and friends, who became lifelong allies and trusted advisors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These relationships opened windows of humanity he has embraced, nurtured, and now treasures. Migoyas life experiences give him the courage and moral clarity to stand up to hate and bigotry, speak out for whats right, and condemn what is wrong. He affirmed that Jews and Israel not only have the right to exist but to defend themselves from existential threats. Migoya learned that policy disagreements cannot cloud ones core principles. Indeed, healthy, principled discourse can add valued perspectives that bring people together. Migoyas leadership exemplifies that type of openness and collaboration. Similarly, AJC works diligently to build coalitions with interfaith and intergroup partners to create bonds and reliable allies. With antisemitism at record levels across the country, especially since the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre in Israel, the need to achieve that understanding with our neighbors is more urgent than ever. But we can get to that place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carlos Migoyas remarkable record of achievements and bridge-building is proof of the benefits that we can reap when we do. Susan Greene Pallot is the president of American Jewish Committee, Miami and Broward. Susan Greene Pallot The ebullient thrum of staccato snares, thumping sousaphones, and tramping shoes all acting in unison filled the gray morning air in the parking lot outside Angel Stadium recently. Piles of travel-worn cardboard boxes and pristine instrument cases stood stacked at one end of the cracked asphalt as scores of young performers marched, danced and played in tight formation, round and round the vast expanse. It was just days before the Rose Parade and one of the last chances the Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band had to practice its eight-song medley and accompanying choreography. Yuika Okai, left, and Karin Yamamoto enjoy a light moment while taking a break from rehearsal for the upcoming Rose Parade. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) One of 24 bands slated to perform in the Pasadena procession, the Japanese school will mark its third appearance there on New Year's Day. It will join an international contingent of bands from Mexico, Panama and Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 12 of the most defining dishes in Pasadena, including this famous salad The Japanese band's whirlwind visit to Southern California began Christmas Day, when the performers and their instruments started arriving at Los Angeles International Airport. For most, it was their first visit to the United States. They spent Thursday and Friday practicing and retiring to a nearby hotel, escorted back and forth in long charter buses while a local volunteer transported their instruments in a Penske moving truck. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band rehearses for the Rose Parade in the parking lot at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Asked about their first impressions, many of the young band members remarked on how friendly the Americans they had met had been. And several raved about the food, especially the hotel's bacon and eggs an uncommon breakfast in Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything is huge. Lots of cars and freeways, 18-year-old saxophone player Kokoro Kumagai said through a translator. We went to the supermarket and every item is quite huge and its color is quite vivid. Everything seemed delicious. The group is considered Japan's best and most innovative high school marching band. Until just several years ago when the school began to admit boys the band was made up entirely of girls. This year, 109 enrolled students and 82 recent graduates made the trip to California. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band is considered Japan's best and most innovative high school marching band. Until just several years ago when the school began to admit boys the band was made up entirely of girls. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Over the weekend, band members dispersed across Southern California for home stays with families from Seal Beach to Ontario. Many said they were excited to experience normal American life and maybe see some tourist attractions or go shopping in between commitments. They had a busy schedule, with a charity concert at John F. Kennedy High School in La Palma on Sunday, an appearance in the Rose Parade-associated Bandfest event at Pasadena City College on Monday and a performance in the parade at Disneyland on New Years Eve. Bob Kunihiro said he hosted two band members at his familys house in Anaheim Hills in 2018, and he decided to do so again this year. He takes them to area restaurants and to the outlets, which he said is a popular option because American clothing is typically more expensive in Japan, particularly with the current weakness of the yen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Photos: Float decoration shifts into high gear ahead of the 2025 Rose Parade Its a lot of fun. I really enjoy it, the kids are really nice, Kunihiro said. A lot of the kids dont speak much English, so theyre very apprehensive. I speak a little Japanese, but I also use Google Translate, which helps. That trepidation disappears the moment they don their signature yellow-and-black collared tops and orange skirts or black pants in the case of the few male players and hoist their instruments in the air. The band is an explosion of coordinated energy, with far more activity than the average marching band as its members skip, high kick and sashay, all while playing a tune. "Around 200 high school students and graduates are going to make a very impressive performance, with the combination of dance and music," said Yasuda Fumihiko, Kyoto Tachibana's principal. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 200 high school students and graduates are going to make a very impressive performance, with the combination of dance and music, said Yasuda Fumihiko, Kyoto Tachibanas principal, as he watched the Friday practice. Very skillful steps and very beautiful sounds, theyll play eight tunes. The bands leaders said they chose songs that American audience members of all ages would enjoy, from Taylor Swifts Shake It Off and Poker Face by Lady Gaga to the Beach Boys classic Surfin U.S.A. and the jazz standard Sing Sing Sing, made famous by Benny Goodman. For the bands members, the day of the Rose Parade begins hours before dawn, as they expect to arrive near the parade route around 3 a.m. The actual performance will last about two hours, during which they will perform the eight-song medley in a repeating loop as they make their way through the streets of Pasadena before wrapping up in late morning. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band listens to its music director during rehearsal. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) The next day, its back to Japan for the high schoolers, who have exams to study for. The graduates will stay an extra day in the U.S. to visit where else Disneyland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to make a very good performance. We want to enjoy ourselves and we want every person watching to enjoy themselves, too, Kumagai said. Its a kind of harmony. We want people in the U.S. to know peace and harmony through our music and marching performance. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. HARBIN, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Pauline from New Zealand stood mesmerized by the ice castles and lifelike Asian landmarks, all aglow in neon lights under the crisp winter sky of Harbin, northeast China. "It is so colorful," she whispered. For Pauline, who prefers to go by her given name, this is her first trip to China. Located at a latitude similar to Wakkanai, Hokkaido, Harbin is the third stop on her journey, following Beijing and Shanghai. Pauline, like many others, set foot in China for the first time. Whether it's experiencing the attire and recreations of ancient Kaifeng or marveling at the towering natural pillars in Zhangjiajie that inspired the movie Avatar, the excitement of these travelers is unmistakable. Thanks to a flurry of policy changes after the pandemic, exploring China is now easier than ever before. China has expanded unilateral visa-free access for travelers from 38 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days. Pauline benefited from this policy. In the latest policy update announced on Dec. 17, China introduced more ports for visa-free transit. Moreover, travelers can now hop between multiple destinations within a single itinerary. Wang Huiyao, founder of the Center for China and Globalization, an independent think tank in Beijing, described these changes as "the largest visa liberalization since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949." He noted that protectionism is creating walls between countries at a time when the world needs more bridges. "By welcoming more visitors, Beijing is choosing engagement over isolation." Applause has flooded in across platforms like YouTube, TikTok and X. Many vloggers expressed amazement at the country's economic success, law and order, modern transport systems, efficient mobile networks, and the country's stunning and diverse landscapes. In a YouTube video published in June, an American couple shared their impression of Beijing, saying it defied all their expectations of a noisy, traffic-clogged metropolis. "It's been the complete opposite," they said. "Everything is quiet, the cars are electric, and there's so much nature." Statistics reveal that between January and November, foreign nationals made over 29.2 million entries to China, an increase of 86.2 percent year on year, with approximately 60 percent benefiting from the expanded visa-waiver program. A TWO-WAY EMBRACE The desire for connection has proven to be mutual, and perhaps even more fervent in the wake of the pandemic. After a long break, more Chinese travelers are once again travelling across the globe, eager to expand their horizons. Wang Lin from Hangzhou, east China, savored the fresh air of the bustling Strait of Malacca as he strolled through the historical lanes of Malaysia. "I learned about Zheng He's voyages in school," Wang told Xinhua at the Cheng Ho Cultural Museum. "It planted a seed in my heart to visit and see this place for myself." Zheng, a famous Chinese navigator known as Cheng Ho in Malay, visited Malacca five times during his seven maritime expeditions in the 15th century. Thanks to the visa exemption introduced in December 2023, Wang was able to fulfill his childhood dream. "When the stories from the history books come to life before my eyes, I deeply feel that such exchanges, like a bond, can foster connection and understanding." China has mutual comprehensive visa exemption arrangements with 26 countries, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. While policies may not always be reciprocal, goodwill often is. Following China's unilateral visa exemption, countries like Singapore and France have acted in kind by relaxing their entry requirements for Chinese travelers. As the generation MZ from the Republic of Korea flock to Chinese cities like Shanghai and Qingdao for getaways under a visa-free arrangement launched in November, their government plans similar measures for Chinese tour groups. Outbound tourism in China is rapidly recovering in 2024. The rising interest in overseas travel among residents from smaller cities, in particular, signals both their growing spending power and the potential of the Chinese market. While short-haul destinations in Southeast and East Asia remain popular, Chinese travelers are venturing further afield -- from hiking Tasman Glacier in New Zealand to driving through Namibia's wild landscapes, and wandering Hungary's Castle Hill. Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy, noted that Chinese travelers today are more willing to pay for quality experiences, as they favor nicer hotels, finer cuisine, museums, art galleries, and the charm of small, heartwarming moments on their trips abroad. The UN Tourism Organization reports China reclaimed its position as the top spender on international travel in 2023. GREATER CONNECTION "Above scenery lies life," said Dai. Chinese and foreign tourists are increasingly stepping into each other's everyday lives. While more globetrotters are exploring unconventional destinations like wet markets in Shanghai, many Chinese tourists are opting to travel to rural Kenya to explore local life and traditions. "The power of travel lies in its ability to break down barriers," said Steven Back, a Hungarian museum professional who lives in Shanghai. Hungary was brought into the visa-free scheme in March. This has made it easier for his family to visit him. These policy shifts send a strong message of openness, inclusiveness and cooperation. In 2025, international flights to Shanghai are expected to increase while flights to New York could see a decline, with passenger demand expected to be strongest in the Asia-Pacific region, according to an article on aviation industry carried by Bloomberg in November. Phichaya Panjama, who arrived in Harbin on Dec. 25 from tropical Thailand, gasped in front of an ice sculpture that towers 21.5 meters high and spans around 1,000 square meters. This incredible structure is a replica of the Grand Palace, the quintessence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture and decoration. Sparkling under the sun, each and every line and angle of the masterpiece reflects the dedication of the craftsmen, who skillfully express Thailand's rich history through ice and snow artistry. "Unlike the golden palace back in my home country, this one is crystal -- pure and dreamlike," Phichaya said as she explored the Ice and Snow World. With the Asian Winter Games set to begin in Harbin in February, the city has built ice landmarks representing the 45 members of the Olympic Council of Asia, all as part of the celebrations within the 1-million-square-meter theme park. Phichaya was reluctant to leave. "I can truly feel China's respect for different cultures, and I'm really looking forward to the success of the Asian Winter Games." JAY-Zs legal team is working around the clock to find a way to combat the recent sexual assault allegations filed against him. On Monday (Dec. 30), Hovs legal team filed a pre-motion letter arguing Jane Does lawsuit, which accuses him of raping a minor in 2000 alongside Sean Diddy Combs, is too old to pursue. The claim was filed under the Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act (GMV). JAY-Zs lawyer Alex Spiro, argued the Act is not retroactive, meaning it does not apply to events that took place before it was passed, per USA Today. Although the Act was passed in 2000, the same year Jane Doe claims the incident took place, it was enacted in December, which would be three months after the alleged September event named in the suit. Spiro wrote that letting the suit proceed would violate both state and federal due process protections. BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA JANUARY 25: (L-R) Sean Diddy Combs and Jay-Z attend the Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Sean Diddy Combs on January 25, 2020 in Beverly Hills, California. Additionally, the Roc-A-Fella co-founders team is arguing the GMV accuser is required to prove the alleged assault happened in New York City. According to the details in Jane Does suit, she was driven 20 minutes from Radio City Music Hall to an estate with a U-shaped driveway, which leads Spiro to believe the assault did not happen within NYC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rape lawsuit was originally filed in October 2024 in the Southern District of New York, listing the Bad Boy founder as a defendant. It was refiled in December to include JAY-Z. There have been statements made from both sides, including Hovs response that included calling attorney Tony Buzbee an ambulance chaser in a cheap suit and someone who exploits people for personal gain. According to ABC News on Thursday (Dec. 26), U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres ruled that Jane Doe can keep her identity private for now. However, she may change her stance at a later date. Torres explained how the alleged victim is particularly vulnerable to the possible harms of disclosure, due to her diagnosis of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a seizure disorder associated with the stress of her sexual assault. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Jay-Z prior to the UEFA Champions League Final on June 1, 2024, in London. - Credit: Maurice Van Steen/ANP via Getty Images Jay-Z is opening yet another new front in his all-out attack on the Jane Doe accuser who alleges he sexually assaulted her with Sean Combs when she was a minor in September 2000. After suing the womans lawyer for extortion, vehemently denying the womans claims in a lengthy X post, and asking for expedited orders unmasking the woman and striking her complaint, Jay-Zs lawyer filed new court paperwork today saying he also plans to challenge the lawsuit on the grounds that Does decades-old rape claim simply doesnt qualify for revival under the lookback window linked to New York Citys Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act (GMVA). In his filing, lawyer Alex Spiro said the GMVA wasnt enacted until Dec. 19, 2000, a full three months after the alleged rape. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [The GMVA] cannot apply retroactively to create a cause of action unavailable to plaintiff at the time in question, Spiro wrote in his letter to the court, which was obtained by Rolling Stone. A contrary conclusion would violate both state and federal due process protections. The letter cites a prior ruling in which a fellow federal judge in the Southern District of New York tossed a sexual assault lawsuit filed by former child model Jeanne Bellino against Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler. The judge dismissed that claim because it sought to use the GMVA revival window for an alleged attack that purportedly took place in Manhattan in 1975, when Bellino was 17 and Tyler was about 27 years old. Both Bellino and the Jane Doe suing Jay-Z cited the still-open GMVA window after missing the August 2021 deadline to file otherwise time-barred claims under New Yorks Child Victims Act. In her complaint, Jane Doe alleges that both Combs and Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, raped her at a private afterparty following the MTV Video Music Awards held in Manhattan on Sept. 7, 2000. She claims she was 13 years old at the time and gained access to the party by showing up to Radio City Music Hall without a ticket, chatting to Combs limo driver, and scoring an invitation because she allegedly fit what Diddy was looking for. On Dec. 13, the woman spoke with NBC News and acknowledged inconsistencies in her story. After first telling the outlet she mingled with musician Benji Madden at the party, she later admitted she may have misidentified people. The concession came after a representative for Madden said he was on tour in a different state and did not attend the VMAs that year. The womans father also said he did not recall picking her up at a gas station after the alleged rape, as she alleged. So I have made some mistakes, the woman said in a follow-up interview. I may have made a mistake in identifying [Madden.] The woman said she still stands by her claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his Monday filing, Spiro further argued that Does claim wouldnt qualify for revival under the GMVA for the added reason that the statute was enacted by the New York City Council and only applies to conduct within city limits. He said the alleged afterparty venue described in Does lawsuit as a large white residence with a gated U-shaped driveway located about 20 minutes away from Radio City Music Hall by car would have been located outside the territorial boundaries of New York City. (Does lawsuit does not give an address or borough.) Last week, the judge overseeing the case ruled that the woman could continue to proceed anonymously, at least during this exceedingly early stage in this case. The judge also denied Spiros requests to obtain rulings on an expedited basis. The Court will not fast-track the judicial process merely because counsel demands it, U.S. District Court Judge Analisa Torres wrote. In a second letter to Torres filed today, Spiro signaled that he received the courts message. He withdrew his request for an order for the preservation of evidence, saying he had served a document preservation notice directly on Jane Does lawyer, Tony Buzbee, so there was no need for the court to intervene. Mr. Spiro likes to send a lot of letters. I dont think any of them merit comment, Buzbee said in an email to Rolling Stone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jane Doe lawsuit naming both Combs and Carter is one of more than 30 sexual assault lawsuits filed against Combs since his former girlfriend Casandra Cassie Ventura first sued him for rape and trafficking in November 2023. That lawsuit was settled within 24 hours, but it opened the floodgates to other allegations and a criminal investigation. Combs, 55, was indicted in September and has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation to engage in prostitution. The media mogul was arrested in New York City on Sept. 16 and has been detained since. His trial is set for May. Mr. Combs has full confidence in the facts and the integrity of the judicial process. In court, the truth will prevail: that Mr. Combs never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone man or woman, adult or minor, Combs lawyers said in a statement. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Jay-Z's attorney, Alex Spiro, has shared new reasons why the rape lawsuit against the rapper should be dismissed. He claimed that several details about the case were glossed over and pointed to issues with the timing of the events in question, which he believes prevent the legal statute the woman is suing under from being applicable to the case. Previously, the presiding judge of the rape case ruled that the alleged Jay-Z and Sean "Diddy" Combs victim could remain anonymous for the time being. Why Jay-Z's Attorney Believes Rape Lawsuit Should Be Dismissed MEGA Following a failed attempt to have Jay-Z's rape case dismissed, the rapper's lawyer, Alex Spiro, has presented new reasons why the case should be thrown out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In legal documents obtained by the Daily Mail, Spiro argued that the legal statute under which the woman is suing had not been implemented until three months after the alleged sexual incident occurred. As a result, he claimed, the statute "can't be applied retroactively" to the rapper, who vehemently denied the accusations against him by the Jane Doe. Spiro also highlighted the accuser's claim that she was living in Rochester at the time of the incident and was driven approximately 20 minutes from her location to the party in New York City. He argued that if this timeline were accurate, the 20-minute travel distance indicates the alleged incident did not occur in New York City, which should invalidate the lawsuit on jurisdictional grounds. The Rapper's Lawyer Claims The Suit Was Filed Outside The Statute Of Limitations MEGA In the docs, Spiro went on to say that the suit from the rape accuser should also be dismissed on the grounds that it was filed outside the statute of limitations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He stated that any legal action stemming from the alleged assault should have been initiated before August 2021, when the statute of limitations had not yet expired. Citing these reasons, Spiro announced his intention to file a motion to dismiss the case despite losing earlier attempts to have it dismissed due to inconsistencies in the accuser's statements. In response, the accuser's lawyer, Tony Buzbee, issued a statement on Monday, dismissing Spiro's claims as "technical arguments" and expressing confidence in the strength of the case despite the new legal maneuvers. He said, per TMZ, "The law is clearly on our side and the side of alleged victims. The law is well settled that we are correct." Judge Recently Criticized Jay-Z's Lawyer's 'Relentless Filing Of Combative Motions' MEGA Previously, presiding judge Analisa Torres slammed the rapper's attorney's repeated maneuvers to fast-track the suit and expressed disapproval over his use of inflammatory language in addressing the accuser in previous filings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Carter's lawyer's relentless filing of combative motions containing inflammatory language and ad hominem attacks is inappropriate, a waste of judicial resources, and a tactic unlikely to benefit his client," Torres said in her five-page ruling, per the Daily Mail. She added, "The Court will not fast-track the judicial process merely because counsel demands it." Torress also ruled that Jay-Z's rape accuser's anonymity would be preserved but may be revealed at a later date to allow the rapper's attorney to collect information to prepare for trial. Jay-Z Sued Rape Accuser's Lawyer For Defamation MEGA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside fending off the rape allegations, Jay-Z is involved in a legal tussle with his accuser's lawyer, Tony Buzbee. According to the Daily Mail, he had previously filed an extortion claim against the Texas-based attorney but recently amended the suit to include a defamation claim. In the amended filing, the Roc Nation founder's attorneys accused Buzbee of launching a defamation campaign against Jay-Z, citing media threats made to "anyone who may have ever come into contact with [Sean 'Diddy'] Combs," who at the time was facing multiple civil lawsuits from Buzbee. They also presented evidence of Buzbee liking posts suggesting the rapper's involvement in Diddy's alleged sexual assaults and referenced a December 10 TMZ article in which Buzbee discussed the possibility of filing a criminal complaint against Jay-Z. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding the latter, Jay-Z's lawyers claimed that Buzbee intended "to leave the public with one unavoidable conclusion: that Mr. Carter was facing imminent criminal prosecution for rape." They added, "These were no idle comments. This is defamation per se because he directly and falsely accused Mr. Carter of committing the horrendous criminal act of rape." Tony Buzbee Claims His Client Never Demanded A Penny From The Rapper MEGA In a statement to TMZ, Buzbee responded to Jay-Z's lengthy remarks regarding being named in a lawsuit filed by an alleged victim he is representing. The attorney told the outlet that the rapper had "previously denied being the one who sued me and my firm," referencing an extortion suit that was filed against him by a person who described himself as a "high-profile individual." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buzbee also shared that the Roc Nation founder had tried to hide that he was the one who filed the "frivolous case" by using a "pseudonym" in the suit. The lawyer then defended himself, saying that Jay-Z failed to mention that the "demand letter," which the rapper claimed was a "blackmail attempt," did not include any discussions about money. Buzbee told the news outlet: "What [Jay-Z] fails to say in his recent statement is my firm sent his lawyer a demand letter on behalf of an alleged victim, and that victim never demanded a penny from him." At the end of the festive period we can go into 2025 knowing that Jesus was Palestinian. Bear Grylls has been very helpful in this regard. The former Chief Scout and Russell Brand-baptiser was the most high-profile figure so far (unless you count the Pope) to remove any sense of Jewishness from Jesus Christ and centre his and Marys identity on Palestine. What made Grylls clumsy and ahistorical statement last week significant (it was a promotion for his upcoming book about Jesus) was that it came at the end of another more aggressive campaign to position Christ outside his historical and religious context. Over the past few weeks there has been an attempt to use Jesus to score some cheap points in this culture war and, more troubling still, the continuation of more coordinated, thinly veiled anti-Semitism. Grylls called Jesus a Middle Eastern refugee and said Mary was a no-doubt terrified Palestinian girl. It was pointed out to him that Palestine was a term adopted by the Romans to describe the region they annexed after a series of Jewish rebellions a century after the birth of Christ and that when he was born his family were not refugees but were, so the story goes, in the then-Judean town of Bethlehem for a Roman census. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grylls subsequently removed the reference to Mary being Palestinian and clarified his position, saying she was clearly Jewish. So why call her Palestinian in the first place? After more than a year of pro-Palestinians telling Jews that their historical and biblical links to Israel were irrelevant (in an attempt to delegitimise the Jewish state) it turns out that historical and biblical links really are important, so long as they dont involve Jews. Now Jesus is Palestinian, the theory goes, its completely fine to argue that some of those who inhabited the region 2,000 years ago do have a claim on the land after all. Placards at marches read Jesus is Palestinian or Jesus, the most famous Palestinian. There is, of course, a deeper precedent for this, in that Jesus Jewishness has been played down since the third century, when Christianity proliferated into Roman society. Then, even more so when his death became an excuse for anti-Semitism in the Middle Ages. In that sense, this attempt to politicise him is nothing new. There was also a certain German group you may have heard of from the 1930s and 40s who were very keen to eliminate any link between Jesus and his Jewish identity. Its in this long, troubled context that we should see the potential harm this idea possesses. There have been nativity scenes with the baby Jesus wrapped in a Palestinian keffiyeh across UK and US towns recently, following the Nativity in the rubble concept that began in Bethlehem, along with assertions that he was born in occupied Palestine. This concept hit the jackpot when it appeared in the Vatican in a scene blessed by Pope Francis himself (although it was later removed following criticism that it portrayed Palestinians uniquely as the victims). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you leave aside the theological and historical absurdity equating a Jewish man from 2000 years ago with a political identity that didnt exist this is the nub of the problem. It promotes the idea that Jews are systematic baby killers. This is the sort of thing that is screamed at elderly people on the streets of London, Glasgow and Brighton. Thats not something Jesus would have approved of. He was Jewish, after all. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Editors Note: A version of this story published last year after President Carter entered hospice care. Long before he was called a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, a humanitarian and the 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter was known as something else: a Goddamn n***er lover. Thats the racial slur a White classmate of Carters at the US Naval Academy assigned to him right after World War II when the future president befriended the academys only Black midshipman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was called the same racial epithet when he took over his familys peanut farm in South Georgia during the Jim Crow era. He repeatedly refused to join a segregationist group called the White Citizens Council despite threats to boycott his peanut business. A delegation representing the council confronted Carter at his warehouse one day, with one member even offering to pay his five-dollar membership fee. As one of his biographers has noted, Carter was so angry that he walked over to his cash register, pulled out a five-dollar bill, and declared: Ill take this and flush it down the toilet, but I am not going to join the White Citizens Council. Many people are sharing similar stories about Carter since the former president died Sunday at 100. As tributes to Carter pour in from around the globe, certain themes have emerged: his Christian faith, his childhood friendships with African Americans that shaped his views on race, and the founding of his Carter Center, which has cemented his post-presidency role as a peacemaker and ally of the poor. But there was another source of inspiration for Carter thats been overlooked: his distinctive brand of White evangelical Christianity, which remains hidden from most Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was a progressive White evangelical Christian. That may seem like an oxymoron, but it shouldnt. Progressive White evangelicalism was once what one historian called the ascendent strain of evangelicalism in America. Today White evangelical Christians are associated, rightly or wrongly, with a conservative set of theological and political stances. Those include opposition to abortion, being the most enthusiastic supporters of a brand of Christian nationalism that seeks to turn the US into a White Christian nation, and championing a former president and current president-elect who boasted about sexually assaulting women. Yet there were periods in the 19th and early 20th century when White evangelical leaders led campaigns against slavery, fought for womens rights and became leaders in an array of social justice reform movements. Carter represented a religious tradition where a White evangelical could credibly claim to be a Bible-believing, Ive been saved by the blood of Jesus Christian and still be politically progressive, says Randall Balmer, author of Redeemer: The Life of Jimmy Carter. Former President Jimmy Carter walks with his wife Rosalynn after teaching Sunday School class at Maranatha Baptist Church on December 13, 2015, in their hometown of Plains, Georgia. - Branden Camp/AP He had no problem being identified as a progressive evangelical, says Balmer, who in his book recounts the story about Carters defense of a Black Naval Academy classmate and his refusal to join a White supremacist group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one time, there was a strong element within the (Southern Baptist) Convention that would be identified as progressive evangelicalism, but now thats pretty much been obliterated, Balmer says. Evangelicals are loosely defined as Christians who often share a born-again dramatic personal conversion, believe theyre supposed to spread their faith to others, and in Balmers words, either take the Bible seriously or literally. To understand how and why Carter represented what one commentator calls the road not taken by many contemporary White evangelists, its helpful to look at two aspects of the former presidents religious beliefs. He split with many evangelicals by speaking up for womens equality Less than a week after Carter entered hospice care in early 2023, the Southern Baptist Convention decided to expel one of its largest and most prominent churches because it installed a woman as pastor. The church was founded by Rick Warren, author of the best-selling book The Purpose Driven Life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To critics, the groups decision offered further evidence that many White evangelicals do not believe in womens equality. The convention is the largest Protestant denomination and has nearly 14 million members. It has often been described as a bellwether for conservative Christianity. Many evangelical churches cite scriptures such as 1 Timothy 2:12 (I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet.) Critics also cite many White evangelicals opposition to abortion rights as reflective of a theology that does not respect a womans body or mind. Many White evangelicals counter that by saying abortion is the murder of an unborn child. Carters progressive evangelism represented another view. Carter, who spent decades as a Sunday school teacher, said that the Bible permits women pastors and deacons. He also said Jesus treated women as equals and that women played a central role in the churchs early formation, including being the first to spread the news of the resurrection. Carter stands with his wife, Rosalynn Carter, after addressing the 118th annual National Education Association (NEA) Convention at the Los Angeles Convention Center on July 3, 1980. - NewsBase/AP His views on abortion were more nuanced. He said he was personally opposed to abortion, but did not campaign to overturn Roe vs. Wade and opposed a proposed Constitutional amendment to invalidate the Roe decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His actions as president offered more concrete evidence of his belief in womens equality. Balmer says Carter was a feminist who appointed more women to his administration than any other president before him. Carter supported the Equal Rights Amendment, a proposed change to the Constitution that would have guaranteed legal equality to women. Former President Ronald Reagan, a White evangelical hero, opposed the amendment, which eventually failed. Carters respect for womens equality also could be seen in his relationship with his longtime wife, Rosalynn Carter, some of his biographers say. When he was president, she sat in on his cabinet meetings and major briefings. By many accounts, she was his most trusted political adviser. Elizabeth Kurylo, who extensively covered Carter during his post-presidency as he traveled the world on peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, says Carter valued the opinion of his wife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He views her as his partner period. That is genuine, says Kurylo, a former reporter with the Atlanta Journal Constitution. She was his partner with him on every trip, and in the room with him on every trip. She doesnt always agree with him even though I never saw a disagreement, I know she would tell him what she thought. In 2000, Carters differences with contemporary White evangelicalism became so acute that he cut ties with the Southern Baptist Convention after it barred women pastors and publicly declared that a woman should submit herself graciously to her husbands leadership. I personally feel the Bible says all people are equal in the eyes of God, he said at the time. I personally feel that women should play an absolutely equal role in service of Christ in the church. Yet the most profound source for Carters belief in womens equality was non-religious. It was his mother, Lillian Carter. Jimmy Carter gets a hug from his mother, Lillian Carter, as he arrives home in Plains, Georgia, on January 20, 1981 -- the day Ronald Reagan succeeded him as president. - Joe Holloway Jr./AP She was a blunt, outspoken woman who stood up for Black people so much during the Jim Crow era in South Georgia that she was also called a n***er lover and her car was covered with racial slurs. She joined the Peace Corps at 68 and went to India to serve the poor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter has called his mother the most influential woman in his life. I think more than any other person that Ive ever known, my mother exemplified what is best about this country, he said in a 2008 interview. My mother was a registered nurse and she treated African Americans exactly the same as she did White people and she was unique, perhaps among the 30,000 people that lived in our county, in doing that. I was filled with admiration for my mother. He embodied a brand of faith that once led the way on social justice In October of 1978, Newsweek magazine put an illustration of Carter flashing his famous toothy grin on its cover with the headline: Born Again! Today its common to hear White evangelical leaders take political positions and solemnly bow their heads with political leaders in prayer. But for much of the 20th century, White evangelicals zealously refrained from getting involved in politics by quoting scriptures such as Jesus saying his kingdom was not of this world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was Carter, though, who is arguably more responsible than any modern politician for rousing White evangelicals from their political hibernation. When he successfully ran for president in 1976, he introduced evangelical terms like born again into political discourse and talked openly about his faith in a way that no modern politician had before. The Rev. Martin Luther King Sr., left, President Jimmy Carter and Coretta Scott King, widow of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., pray during the convocation at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta on January 14, 1979. President Carter was presented with the Martin Luther King Jr. Non-Violent Peace Prize. - Jim Wells/AP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other president had spoken publicly about his personal relationship with Jesus Christ, confessed in a famous magazine interview that Ive committed adultery in my heart many times, and vowed that he would never lie to the American people. Carter won the presidency in part because of support from White evangelicals who were delighted to see someone who looked and talked like them enter the Oval Office. Televangelist Pat Robertson claimed to have done everything this side of breaking FCC regulations to elect Carter in 1976, Balmer recounts in his book. Images of Carter on his peanut farm, wearing jeans and an Allman Brothers Band T-shirt and quoting scripture, appealed to White evangelicals, says Nancy T. Ammerman, a sociologist and author of Baptist Battles: Social Change and Religious Conflict in the Southern Baptist Convention. The notion that this ordinary, church-going, non-coastal elite kind of guy could be president was exciting to people, Ammerman says. Yet Carter quickly fell out with many White evangelicals over issues that have come to define evangelical culture today: public stances on racism, homosexuality, abortion and the separation of church and state. To varying degrees, Carter disagreed with conservative White evangelicals on all those issues. During Carters presidency, the Internal Revenue Service sought to enforce anti-discrimination laws at all-White Christian schools that many evangelicals had built to defy the Supreme Courts landmark 1954 Brown vs. Board of Education ruling, which declared racially segregated schools unconstitutional, Balmer says. To enforce the Brown decision, the IRS refused to grant tax-exempt status to schools like Bob Jones University in South Carolina that practiced racial discrimination, a move that White evangelical leaders unfairly blamed on Carter, Balmer says. It was White evangelical opposition to racial integration, not abortion, that originally motivated many evangelicals to get involved in politics in the 1970s, Balmer says. They decided then to appoint Ronald Reagan as their political messiah, Balmer says. President Jimmy Carter shakes hands with Republican Presidential candidate Ronald Reagan after debating on October 28, 1980, in Cleveland, Ohio. Carter lost the election to Reagan the next month. - Madeline Drexler/AP Unlike former President Bill Clinton, another progressive White evangelical, Carter refused to triangulate, or adjust his beliefs to win favor with evangelicals. As other evangelicals drifted to the religious right, Carter advocated universal health care, proposed cuts in military spending and denounced the tax code as a welfare program for the rich, wrote Betsy Shirley, an editor of Sojourners magazine, in a review of Carters book, Faith. Walter Mondale, who served as vice president under Carter, recalled in an interview that when advisers told Carter to temper his policies to preserve his popularity, he refused. Many times the one argument that I would find would ruin a persons case is when hed say, This is good for you politically, Mondale said. He didnt want to hear that. He didnt want to think that way and he didnt want his staff to think that way. He wanted to know whats right. Carter would pay a political price for his idealism. White conservative evangelicals voted decisively for Reagan in the 1980 presidential election. These voters didnt just turn away from Carter they turned away from part of their own tradition, historians say. Thats because during the 19th century, White evangelicals led the way on social justice issues. Evangelical leaders like Charles Finney fought against slavery, were active in prison reform, led peace crusades and were crucial in forming public schools to help less affluent children gain social mobility. Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn work on building houses for the needy in Baltimore, Maryland on October 5, 2010, as part of a weeklong nationwide project with Habitat for Humanity. - Amy Davis/The Baltimore Sun/Tribune News Service/Getty Images They were also active in womens equality, including voting rights, which was a radical idea in the 19th century, Balmer says. Those strands of progressive evangelicals survived well into the 20th century. During the 1960s and 70s, Southern Baptists started to ordain women, passed resolutions supporting moderate pro-abortion stances and many members participated in the civil rights movement, Ammerman says. Much of that progressive momentum dissipated, though, when conservatives gained control of the group in 1979 and the large White evangelical community aligned with the Republican Party. White conservative evangelicals eventually gained so much power that their dominance convinced many Americans that the only true evangelicals were conservative. Many forget that progressive White evangelists existed. He (Carter) does represent the road not taken by the denomination, Ammerman says. Through the 60s and the 70s, the (Southern Baptist) denomination had been moving into a more progressive direction. He leaves behind a looming battle over the future of White evangelism The road Carter took in his post-presidency has been more celebrated than his time in office. He has been called the most successful former US president, someone who spent four decades building houses for the poor and traveling the world brokering peace. The world is a better place because of him, says Kurylo, the former reporter who spent years traveling with and writing about Carter. But Kurylo says she doesnt want to dwell on the end of Carters life. Carter speaks to the congregation at Maranatha Baptist Church before teaching Sunday school in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, in 2019. - Paul Hennessy/NurPhoto/Getty Images I chose to celebrate the impact that his remarkable life has had on the people in the world who will never know him, she says. What a remarkable life hes had, and how wonderful it is that I got to observe it for 10 years. Part of what Carter leaves behind is the White evangelical subculture that nurtured him and a looming battle over its direction. White Southern evangelicals, like other denominations, are leaving their churches in droves. Some religious leaders now say that White evangelicals gained political power but lost their souls by aligning themselves too closely to a political party. But Carters life may offer one final lesson. He may have lost political power when he refused to curry favor with White conservative evangelicals while he was in the White House. But perhaps he had another agenda: staying true to his faith. The road Carter took proved to be the right one for him, and the innumerable people he helped along the way. John Blake is the author of More Than I Imagined: What a Black Man Discovered About the White Mother He Never Knew. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A statue of Jimmy Carter outside the Georgia Capitol. (Photo by Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder) The news of Jimmy Carters passing takes me back to 1976, a year that marked my own passage to adulthood. As the bicentennial year dawned, I took first notice of Carter upon his victory in the Iowa Caucuses. I followed his campaign through my high school graduation and into the summer, when I shuttled in my first car between my summer job at Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida and New Smyrna Beach. I studied Carters campaign in my first college course on American politics that fall and proudly cast my first vote for Carter in November. My enthusiasm for Carter was driven by many things his comparative youth, his progressive brand of politics and his promise of honesty and integrity after the scandals of the Nixon years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My interest in Carter endured. Enrolled in a Ph.D. program in political science a few years later, I proposed to write my dissertation on Carters foreign policy. Although my adviser initially gave thumbs down, he relented after I persisted in making my case that this was a worthy topic. A one-term president who left office with low approval ratings, Carters presidential performance is often dismissed as a failure. The widespread admiration Carter gained over the years was associated with his post-presidency, which he devoted to fighting tropical disease, monitoring elections, promoting human rights and extolling the power of dialogue as a path to peace. Yet as I argued in my book Reversing Course, Carter compiled an extraordinarily successful diplomatic record that was unjustly obscured by events, especially the Iranian revolution and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, over which Carter had little control. With Americas global reputation in tatters following the Vietnam War and Watergate, Carter recognized the urgency of restoring a moral foundation for American foreign policy through the championing of human rights. He understood that a sense of moral purpose was not only essential to American leadership abroad but also necessary to gaining domestic support for an expansive U.S. role in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters human rights policies also had significant practical consequences. Vocal U.S. support for human rights gave added legitimacy and weight to the growing human rights advocacy of non-governmental organizations and international organizations. Authoritarian governments came to realize that systemic human rights violations brought real costs. Arguably, the global diffusion of human rights norms contributed to the later fall of the Soviet-controlled communist bloc and to the spread of democracy in many countries around the world. Even more impressively, Carters presidency illustrated the power of diplomacy. Carter employed diplomacy as a tool for both resolving insipient conflicts before they spun out of control and, where escalation had already taken place, finding a path toward peace and reconciliation. This approach paid major dividends. The SALT II arms control agreement with the Soviet Union capped a dangerous and costly nuclear arms race (while never ratified by the Senate, both countries abided by the terms of the accord). The Panama Canal Treaties removed potential threats to the Canals security, while eliminating a constant irritant in U.S. relations with Latin America. Diplomatic recognition of China set the stage for Chinas growing integration with the existing global political and economic order. The Camp David Accords removed Egypt and Jordan as military threats to Israels security while the transition to majority Black-rule in Zimbabwe, brokered by the United States and Great Britain, brought an end to the bloody civil war there. The successful conclusion of the Tokyo Round trade negotiations sustained progress toward a more open global economy. It is difficult to think of another president who used diplomacy to better effect in serving major American interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters record was not unblemished. As domestic political opponents unfairly painted Carters emphases on human rights and diplomacy as evidence of weakness, Carter increasingly and unwisely sought opportunities to prove his toughness, with little effect. A foreign policy that prioritizes diplomacy and broadly-shared values cannot solve all problems. Nevertheless, at a moment in which the American Century faces unprecedented challenges at home and abroad, we as a nation would do well to seek lessons from Carters presidential and post-presidential records. I was fortunate to finally meet and shake hands with Jimmy Carter a number of years ago when he and Rosalynn Carter spoke at Drake University. As Carter has for so long served as both a political inspiration and a scholarly subject for me down through these many years, I will miss his presence in our national life. This article was originally published by the Iowa Capital Dispatch, a States Newsroom affiliate. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Photo: Hulton Archive (Getty Images) A few years ago, I spoke with civil rights icon Andrew Young and in my conversation, I asked him about being appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. He told me that his international perspective came from the people from the Black diaspora that he met through the Black church. It was a perspective he was able to lend because of the vision of his friend Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, who died Sunday at 100. Young was appointed to the role by Carter in 1977 and served until 1979, the first African American in the position. Madison J. Gray Read More Civil Rights leader Jesse Jackson, former President Jimmy Carter, and MLB Legend Hank Aaron - Photo: Bettmann Archive (Getty Images) Former President Jimmy Carters relationship with Black America hasnt been perfect, but in light of his Dec. 29 passing at age 100, its time we go back in history and remember his impact on the Black community. Phenix S Halley Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read More Photo: David Hume Kennerly (Getty Images) Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States of America and the longest-living American president, passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday. Noah A. McGee Read More Former President Jimmy Carter sits on the Atlanta Falcons bench before the first half of an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the San Diego Chargers, Oct. 23, 2016, - Photo: AP Photo (AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the ripe age of 100, Jimmy Carter, a former peanut farmer, was the 39th president of the United States and the longest living American president. He died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, according to his son James E. Carter III per The Washington Post. Beloved and misunderstood, Carter especially had a complicated relationship with Black America. It might surprise you to learn that the man who would eventually win the overwhelming support of Black voters for President (twice), wasnt always seen as a friend to the Black community. Jessica Washington Read More For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter installed solar panels on the roof of the White House. Amid an energy crisis, Carter hoped to reduce the country's dependence on foreign oil. President Ronald Reagan removed the solar panels in 1986. After President Jimmy Carter died on Sunday at the age of 100, world leaders, including former US presidents and the British royal family, paid tribute to his legacy of humanitarian work and public service. Among the many causes Carter championed was renewable energy, which led him to install solar panels on the White House in 1979. His successor, President Ronald Reagan, did not share Carter's passion and had them removed during repairs to the roof. The fate of Carter's White House solar panels exemplifies how presidents can use their power to undo the work of previous administrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what happened. In the 1970s, the US was in an energy crisis. A gas station in 1973. Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images In 1973, Arab countries that were part of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) imposed an oil embargo on the United States in retaliation for their military support of Israel during the Yom Kippur War. As a result, gas prices skyrocketed and shortages caused long lines at gas stations. While the embargo ended in 1974, it exposed the vulnerabilities of US reliance on foreign oil. President Jimmy Carter pushed for renewable energy sources to reduce pollution and America's dependence on fossil fuels. Jimmy Carter signs the National Energy Bills circa 9 November 1978. HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images In response to the 1973 energy crisis, Carter created the Department of Energy in 1977. He implemented tax credits for homeowners who installed solar panels and passed the National Energy Act into law in 1978, moving to reduce oil imports and promote energy conservation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of his efforts, he installed 32 solar panels on the roof of the West Wing in 1979. The dedication ceremony for solar panels installed on the roof of the West Wing on June 20, 1979. Billy Shaddix/Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum/NARA In his speech, Carter emphasized the importance of "harnessing the power of the sun to enrich our lives as we move away from our crippling dependence on foreign oil." At the dedication ceremony, Carter expressed his administration's goal of the US running on 20% renewable energy by 2000. President Jimmy Carter spoke against a backdrop of solar panels at the White House in 1979. Harvey Georges/AP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Today, in directly harnessing the power of the sun, we're taking the energy that God gave us, the most renewable energy that we will ever see, and using it to replace our dwindling supplies of fossil fuels," Carter said in his speech. In 1980, Carter lost the general election to Ronald Reagan, who didn't share his vision for renewable energy. The Carters and the Reagans outside the White House in 1980. Diana Walker/Getty Images Reagan moved to fulfill his campaign promise to abolish the Department of Energy in 1981, but he walked back his effort in 1985 due to insufficient support in Congress. He allowed Carter's solar-panel tax credits to expire in 1985, instead championing nuclear-power initiatives. He also believed in allowing free-market capitalism to dictate the production and use of fossil fuels rather than government regulations, a policy that became known as "Reaganomics." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1986, Reagan had the solar panels removed during repairs to the roof of the White House. President Ronald Reagan in the Oval Office. Diana Walker/Getty Images Carter's solar panels were removed during repairs to the White House roof and were not reinstalled. "Putting them back up would be very unwise, based on cost," Reagan's White House press secretary Dale Petroskey told the Associated Press at the time, according to Yale Climate Connections. The White House remained without solar panels until 2002, when the National Park Service installed three solar energy systems that provided hot water for grounds maintenance staff and the White House pool, according to the White House Historical Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter continued advocating for renewable energy after his time in the White House. Jimmy Carter held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a solar panel project on farmland he owned in Plains, Georgia. David Goldman/AP In 2017, Carter leased 10 acres of his farmland in Plains, Georgia, to the solar energy company SolAmerica Energy, The New York Times reported. The company built 3,852 solar panels, enough to provide more than half of the power for the 683-person town. "It's very special to me because I was so disappointed when the panels came off of the White House, and now to see them in Plains is just terrific," former first lady Rosalynn Carter told The New York Times. Read the original article on Business Insider Li Ganjie, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, delivers a speech at a ceremony to honor model retired officials and groups on Dec. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu) Li Ganjie, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, attends a ceremony to honor model retired officials and groups on Dec. 30, 2024. Li also delivered a speech at the event. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) President Jimmy Carter had several Minnesotans in his cabinet and Walter Fritz Mondale, as his vice president, would help redefine that office. Mondale, was similar in background and in his commitment to civil rights to Carter, said Larry Jacobs, a professor of politics at the University of Minnesota who taught with the vice president for 16 years. The Carter-Mondale partnership changed how presidents and vice-presidents worked together, Jacobs said. The two men created what went on to become the modern vice-presidency, giving the office a central role in the White House, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter would have agreed with that assessment. I think I can say without anyone disputing this that there has never been in the history of the United States a closer and more valuable partnership between the president of our country and the vice president of our country, than between Jimmy Carter and Fritz Mondale. And Im thankful for that, Carter said in 1978 during a stop in Rochester, Minn. As the 39th president, Carter appointed several Minnesotans to his administration besides Mondale, including Bob Bergland, of Roseau, who served as U.S. secretary of agriculture. From todays point of view, we think of the state of Minnesota as solidly Democratic when it comes to presidential elections. But if you go back to 1976, that really wasnt the case. In 1972 Richard Nixon had actually won Minnesota, so having Walter Mondale on the ticket may well have played a role in helping secure the state for Jimmy Carter, Jacobs said. Human rights impact One of Carters biggest impacts on Minnesota was his foreign policy, which included a defining theme of human rights, Jacobs said. That would play an important role in Hmong refugees coming to the U.S., he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its one of the largest ethnic groups in the state, and its solely because of Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale. Theyre the ones who kind of stepped in, saw a human rights tragedy, and made the decision that the right thing to do was to send the Navy, not to fire guns, but to save peoples lives, Jacobs said. Think how incredible that is using the Navy to save lives? This was Jimmy Carter, Walter Mondales idea of human rights and the proper nature of U.S. foreign policy. Following the end of his presidency in 1981, Carter and his wife Rosalynn focused on humanitarian work through The Carter Center and worked with Georgia-based Habitat for Humanity for more than 40 years. Habitat for Humanity Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity hosted the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in 2010 and the fall of 2024, which celebrated Carters 100th birthday. Thousands of volunteers built 30 homes at The Heights on St. Pauls Greater East Side, with nearly 150 homes expected to be developed. Chris Coleman, president and CEO for Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and former St. Paul mayor, said it will be the largest investment on the East Side in more than a century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coleman, who worked alongside Carter in 2010, said the Carters were instrumental in expanding the organizations reach. When he put his tool belt on, he was there to work, Coleman said. And it wasnt about him, it was about the service to others. And I hope that as we reflect upon his legacy and the legacy of Rosalynn Carter that we remember that public service should be about serving the public, not yourself, Coleman said. During the 2010 visit the former president helped build or rehab a dozen homes in a corner of North Minneapolis hard-hit by the foreclosure crisis at the time. Carter called the effort Gods work and said he handed each new homeowner a Bible. Theres an inclination with people who are successful to say, Well, if they had worked as hard as I had, theyd have their own home, he told reporters at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But good, hardworking people struggle to get on their feet, too, he said. Theres another element of Habitat thats kind of an equalizer, Carter said. It makes us realize were the same people. Related Articles SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags be flown at half-staff through late January in honor of former President Jimmy Carter. The 39th president of the United States died Sunday at the age of 100. Carter to be honored with events in Georgia, Washington But Carters work after the Oval Office is what many people remember him for. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter first volunteered for Habitat for Humanity in the 1980s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carters brought more awareness to the cause. Habitat for Humanity had really started gaining a little bit of traction in the 80s, and then President Carter started volunteering in 1984, and really just blew the doors open, said Rocky Welker, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sioux Falls. The Carters helped build and improve homes around the globe for decades. He helped swing hammers right alongside volunteers well into his 90s, Welker said. Every time weve ever been out as volunteers, leading a project no matter where its beenin this country or around the rest of the world, at the end of the habitat project, we always feel that Rose and I got more out of it than we put into it, Carter said in 2018 at a Habitat for Humanity event in Indiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was the longest-living U.S. president in the countrys history. Politics by nature are very divisive, but I think that both Republicans and Democrats have universally agreed that very few presidents, if any, have done as much as President Carter did post-presidency for the world, Welker said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. LOWER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11) A major part of Jimmy Carters legacy was advocating for impoverished and homeless people worldwide. That effort began with a pair of key milestones that occurred in New York one involving seeing the effects of poverty and neglect firsthand in the South Bronx, and the other was an effort to end cycles of deprivation by building affordable housing in the East Village. The first of the two events that impacted the 39th president was his visit to Charlotte Street in the South Bronx in 1977, the first year of his presidency. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three-block-long street is now a tree-lined thoroughfare, with suburban-style, split-level tract homes on both sides. The homes value is some 50% higher than the median home price of houses nationwide. However, when Carter visited 47 years ago, there were no longer any buildings on the street theyd all been burned down and demolished, allegedly by landlords eager to collect on insurance money. The contrast between then and now is attested to by residents, who said they ultimately benefited from Carters arrival, which shone a spotlight on a crisis. That visit, residents said, was the first step in improving their community. Dennis Torres grew up in the neighborhood and has owned his home on Charlotte Street for a decade. I can appreciate what my family has gotten from someone coming here and saying, Wow, this area shouldnt look like what it did back then,' Torres said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Isaac Martinez bought his home on the street when it was first built in the 1980s. He also credited Carters visit with starting a long process of revitalizing and repopulating the Bronx. This neighborhood was bad at that time, said Martinez, who added that thanks to Carters visit and time, it got better. Everything got better. Despite being devoted to the cause of improving living conditions for lower-income Americans generally, and struggling New Yorkers specifically, Carter ended up admitting that he couldnt bring as many new housing resources to the community during his presidency as he had liked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years after his presidency ended, however, Carter coordinated an effort by more than 40 volunteers with what was then a new organization, called Habitat for Humanity. Carter led the group in an initial build effort in a roofless, completely burnt-out shell of a building in the East Village. The building was called Mascot Flats, a name given to it when it was built in the late 1800s. Paul Arroyo was one of the first people to have worked with Carter to work on their apartments with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter in the Habitat for Humanity building. He said that while the results of the construction were transformative he still lives in the apartment that he helped to build out in the mid-1980s his time with the former president while doing the work was even more meaningful. When he talked, he sat down to listen, Arroyo said. His ideology was incredible. Arroyo said that Carters legacy lives on in his building, at 742 East Sixth St. Agreeing with that assessment is Habitat for Humanity. Its office for New York City and Westchester County will install signage at the building on Tuesday to commemorate the former president and to provide a way for the public to express condolences and best wishes to the Carter Family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We invite folks to come out to the Lower East Side, said Sabrina Lippman, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity NYC and Westchester. Visit Mascot Flats, she continued. We invite folks to leave their tributes. People will also be able to honor Carters memory by signing commemorative doors. Theyll be on display at two Habitat for Humanity locations in the region. One, in Queens, is at 62-01 Northern Blvd., just west of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. The other is in Yonkers, at 470 Nepperhan Ave., near the corner of Axminster Street. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. When Americans recall Jimmy Carters legacy, we often think of his piety, illustrated by his years of teaching Sunday school at his Baptist church and his tireless labor for nonpartisan charities such as Habitat for Humanity. Carter, who died Sundaythree months after his 100th birthdaywas eager to talk about his faith and about his personal born again experience. He shattered a longstanding tradition of presidents, dating back to George Washington, who generally didnt discuss their faith in public. Indeed, Carter set a new precedent for presidential aspirants: Since Carter, Christian voters have expected candidates to talk openly about their religion, even if they didnt have much of substance to say. And yet, his passing also reminds us of a time when many white evangelicals still voted for Democrats. For all his personal Christian devotion, Carter never captured the hearts of white evangelicals the way Republican presidents have since Ronald Reagan in 1980. That Carter failed to do so is one of his most perplexing legacies. The fact that Carter and Democrats could not hold the allegiance of evangelicalsparticularly Southern evangelicalsin 1980 was a terrible (though not insurmountable) loss for Democrats national prospects. What went wrong? What we might call the Carter modelpersonal commitment to church, the Bible, and Christian values, combined with libertarian views of law and public moralitywas highly disappointing to most evangelical voters. They wanted action on conservative moral issues, even if that action came from politicians who did not manifest Carters private devotion to church, family, and the Bible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Carter first ran in 1976, there seemed little doubt that Southern evangelicals, especially Carters fellow Baptists, would support him. Some certainly did. Oklahoma Baptist pastor Bailey Smith, a future president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), exclaimed at the denominations 1976 meeting that America needed a born-again president. He didnt want to mention his preferred candidate by name, Bailey joked, but his initials are the same as Our Lords. At the same assembly, however, Gerald Ford became the first sitting president to address the SBC. Thus, the trajectory of the white evangelical vote was uncertain in 1976. So was the future of the SBC, which was Carters denomination at the time. In fact, Carters presidency would become one of the chief catalysts of the SBCs transformation into a uniformly conservative denomination. The SBC had been the nations largest Protestant group since the mid-20th century, and it was a surprisingly diverse organization, both theologically and politically. Despite his evangelical testimony and personal adherence to the Bible, Carter was part of a small but influential group of SBC moderates and liberals. These SBC progressives affirmed abortion rights in the wake of the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973, and they supported the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which sought to enshrine legal equality between the sexes in the Constitution. Carters SBC was evangelical in the sense that it supported evangelism, Christian missions, and the special authority of the Bible, along with Baptist distinctives such as the baptism of Christian believers instead of infants. But SBC pastors and professors were not in agreement about the inerrancy of scripture. Was the Bible entirely without error, whether of facts or morals? Southern Baptists gave a range of answers. Neither did SBC members agree about the role of women, especially in the home and in the church. Were married women to submit to their husbands, as Pauls letters in the New Testament instructed? Were women eligible to be senior pastors, despite the historical opposition across most Christian traditions to that practice? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Protestant denominations had gone through battles over such cultural and theological issues in the early 20th century. Those battles led mainline denominations such as Fords Episcopal church to accept liberal theology and social views. A reckoning in the SBC over the Bible and liberalizing culture was delayed by a half century, however. The war for the SBCs future began in 1979, and ended with what liberal critics call the fundamentalist takeover of the SBC. Traditionalists prefer to label it the Conservative Resurgence. Parallel to the developments in the SBC, the Southern political landscape was changing, too. From the Civil War to the 1960s, a strong majority of white Southernersevangelical or nothad voted Democratic. In many races across the Solid South, the Democratic primary was the key contest, not the general election: The candidate nominated by Democrats would almost always win. Their hold on white Southerners (who often deprived black Southerners of the right to vote prior to the 1960s) began to erode in the mid-20th century, partly due to anger over civil rights reform. Sen. Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, a Southern Baptist and segregationist, switched to the Republican Party in 1964 in order to back Barry Goldwater, the Republican candidate for president. Carter would provoke some Southern evangelicals, too, when his Internal Revenue Service in 1978 suggested that it might revoke the tax exemption of all-white private schools that had sprung up when public schools began integrating in the 1960s and 70s. Some historians argue that the threat against segregation academies was one of the chief concerns animating the religious rights backlash against Carter, especially for Southerners such as Jerry Falwell Sr., the founder of the Moral Majority organization. Falwell operated one of these schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 1968, Richard Nixon and independent segregationist candidate George Wallace of Alabama were dividing the Souths votes, including those of Southern evangelicals. Nixons landslide victory in 1972 heralded a new Republican Solid South. But Nixons resignation over Watergate in 1974, the turmoil over Americas exit from Vietnam, and Carters candidacy as a Georgia Democrat, brought the white South back into play for Democratic strategists. Northern evangelicals had largely supported Republicans since at least the 1950s, when the evangelist Billy Graham gave his support to Dwight Eisenhower as Americans best bet to fight the menace of Soviet communism. Thus, the 1976 election was a test of whether Democrats could retake the South in a presidential election. Carter proved to be just the man for the job, as he swept virtually the whole South on his way to a narrow victory over Ford. His one major misstep with evangelical voters was an ill-judged interview with the soft-core pornographic magazine Playboy. Carter thought speaking with Playboy might reassure non-evangelicals that he was no prude. But it soured some evangelicals on his candidacy and gave Christian critics ammunition to charge him with being a hypocrite. In the end, Carter seems to have roughly split the national evangelical vote with Ford. Democratic nominees ever since would love to perform as well as Carter did with evangelicals in 1976. But Carters inability to win a clear majority of white evangelicals foreshadowed trouble to come. Evidence suggests that evangelical support for the Republican nominee dropped precipitously from 1972 to 1976, with 84 percent of evangelical voters choosing Nixon (compared to Nixons 61 percent of the total vote), but only 51 percent of evangelical voters supporting Ford (compared to Fords 48 percent total). From this perspective, Carters gains among evangelicals were a resounding success. What happened to send evangelical support for Carter spiraling downward? One could cite a variety of concerns, many of them hardly exclusive to evangelicals. These included a troubled economy and Carters mishandling of the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis. But politically, the No. 1 thing that went wrong for Carter in 1980 was Republicans nomination of Ronald Reagan. His Christian bona fides were not as clear as Carters, but Reagan, the great communicator, had an uncanny ability to identify with people on a visceral level, and he won over evangelical audiences with pitch-perfect messages on the threat of communism and secular humanism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the pro-life cause and opposition to the ERA joined anticommunism as top issues for evangelicals. The Democratic Party of the 1960s had been more solidly pro-life than the Republican Party was. But in 1976, Republicans such as Reagan and Fords running mate Bob Dole realized that the abortion issue was a promising way for Republicans to attract more Catholic and evangelical voters, as feminists drove Democrats in a more pro-choice direction. Southern Baptists had a mixed reaction to Roe v. Wade, with even some SBC conservatives continuing to support abortion rights. But core evangelical outlets such as Christianity Today and the National Association of Evangelicals immediately condemned Roe as immoral. By the 1976 election, the Republican Party had emerged as the preferred choice for pro-life activists, even though Republicans sometimes seemed to do little more about the issue than making statements affirming the sanctity of unborn life. Carter supported the ERA and abortion rights, and he appointed feminist activists in his administration. These included Sarah Weddington, one of the lead attorneys for Jane Roe in Roe v. Wade, as an assistant for womens issues. In that capacity, Weddington led an all-out campaign to get the ERA ratified. That effort ultimately failed in the states, largely because of the opposition of conservative Christian women, such as the Eagle Forums Phyllis Schlafly. Carter likewise signaled political support for gay and lesbian activists, despite his personal opposition to homosexuality. Carter took a similar approach to abortion: He said he was personally opposed, but he did not support a constitutional amendment to overturn Roe v. Wade. Such libertarian stances, and his unwillingness to align personal Christian convictions with legal activism, were galling to conservative Christian voters. During Carters presidency, conservative Southern Baptists were becoming more engaged on a range of cultural issues, including abortion. The popular evangelical writer Francis Schaeffer was arguably the person most responsible for galvanizing evangelicals on abortion, convincing many that abortion was tantamount to murder. The most influential Baptist persuaded by Schaeffer was Falwell Sr. After reading Schaeffer, Falwell began vociferously denouncing abortion in sermons and on his popular radio show. Under his leadership, the Moral Majority became the key religious right organization supporting Ronald Reagan and opposing Jimmy Carter. The same year saw the beginning of the Conservative Resurgence in the SBC. By 1980, the SBC finally passed a pro-life resolution after years of failed attempts. Carter would break ties with the SBC himself in 2000, citing the denominations opposition to ordaining women as pastors. The reasons Carter lost to Reagan in 1980 are more complicated than white evangelicals fusion with the GOP. Still, if Carter had retained 50 percent of the evangelical vote nationally, instead of dropping into the mid-30s, the election would have been much closer. Carter likely would have captured additional Southern states beyond just Georgia and West Virginia. As it was, Reagan dominated the evangelical vote, garnering around 65 percent. More importantly, Reagan set a pattern that shows no sign of abating in 2024: Evangelical voters prize action on conservative cultural issues such as abortion. When forced to choose, a candidates personal piety is not the top concern for the majority of evangelicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This helps explain why Jimmy Carter, one of the most overtly devout presidents in American history, lost the evangelical vote. By contrast, thrice-married and often profane Donald Trump has twice been elected to the presidency with broad support from evangelical voters. Sure, Carter read his Bible and taught Sunday school, but he was usually wrong in the eyes of evangelicals on the issues that mattered most to them. Trump rarely darkens a church door and he often bungles attempts to speak about the Bible. But politically, Trump delivers the goods the GOPs evangelical base wants. Most importantly, his Supreme Court appointees eviscerated Roe v. Wade in the 2022 Dobbs decision. For evangelical voters, personal piety cant compete with actual support for conservative moral issues. Jimmy Carter learned this lesson to his chagrin in 1980. The failure of the Carter model has shaped American religion and politics ever since. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. The State Funeral of former President Jimmy Carter will take place over nearly a week, including several public viewings in Atlanta and Washington. Carter, the 39th president of the United States, died on Sunday at age 100. More from Deadline Read the Jimmy Carter state funeral schedule. The funeral will begin on Saturday at 10:15 a.m. ET with the arrival of the Carter family at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. Current and former special agents of his Secret Service detail will carry his remains and walk along the hearse as it leaves the medical center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motorcade then will travel through Carters hometown of Plains, with a brief pause at his boyhood home at 10:50 a.m., where the National Park Service will salute him by ringing the farm bell 39 times. After that, Carters remains will be taken to Atlanta, making a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence including Gov. Brian Kemp and other state and local officials. His remains then will be taken to Carter Presidential Center for a service at 4 p.m. He will then lie in repose for a public viewing from 7 p.m. ET through 6 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Jan. 7. On Jan. 7, the Carter family will travel to Washington, D.C. on Special Air Mission 39, arriving at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at 12:45 p.m. ET. They will then travel by motorcade to the U.S. Navy Memorial, where his remains will be transferred to a horse drawn caisson for a funeral procession to the Capitol. There, members of Congress will pay their respects for a service starting at 3 p.m. ET. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter then will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda from 7 p.m. ET to midnight, and then from 7 a.m. ET on Jan. 8 to 7 a.m. on Jan. 9. The public will be invited to pay their respects as he lies in state. On Jan. 9, Carters casket will be taken to Washington National Cathedral, for a funeral service starting at 10 a.m. ET. After the service, Carters family and the late presidents casket will be flown to Fort Moore, GA, for a private funeral service at 3:45 p.m. ET at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. The motorcade then will travel to the Carter residence for a private interment at the Carter residence at 5:20 p.m. ET. Before the interment, the U.S. Navy will conduct a missing man formation flyover in honor of his naval service and time as commander in chief. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. When you live a life as long as Jimmy Carter, you're bound to have stories to tell. Add a term as president of the United States to the list of accomplishments and the stories grow exponentially. The former president, who entered hospice care in February 2023, died at 100 years old on Sunday, Dec. 29 the 47th anniversary of a global translation controversy that unfolded during his first international tour as president. Related: Jimmy Carter's Presidency Was Cut Short by Crisis, but His Post-White House Life Made Him an Icon Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 29, 1977, President Carter arrived in Poland to kick off a nine-day, seven-nation peace tour nearly a year into his presidency. Before he could even leave the Warsaw airport, he'd made headlines for the wrong reasons though by no fault of his own. The State Department's Language Services Division had assigned part-time interpreter Steven Seymour to accompany Carter to the then-communist nation, believing he was the most qualified person to conduct a rare high-profile translation between English and Polish, according to The New York Times' debrief a day after the incident. Seymour, who reportedly had a daily rate of $150 for his translation services, lasted less than a day on the job before he was replaced. Related: Jimmy Carter Once Shook Hands with Each Person on His Delta Flight Because Thats Who He Was: WATCH HUM Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Polish Communist Leader Edward Gierek walks with President Jimmy Carter at a Warsaw airport welcome ceremony on Dec. 29, 1977 Polish Communist Leader Edward Gierek walks with President Jimmy Carter at a Warsaw airport welcome ceremony on Dec. 29, 1977 During a freezing, 25-minute welcome ceremony for Carter, the Southern lawmaker spoke about his intent to improve East-West relations, saying in part that he was happy to have traveled from the United States to Poland because he wanted to learn about Polish people's desires for the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His remarks made the audience burst into laughter, according to the Times, and it was soon revealed by Polish journalists that Seymour hadn't quite gotten the message across, mixing up several words and in some cases accidentally translating phrases into Russian instead of Polish, which came across as insulting. Related: Did Jimmy Carter Kiss the Queen Mother? All About the Reported Story When Carter said that he had left the U.S. just that morning, it was translated as something to the effect of, "I left the United States, never to return," according to The Washington Post. When Carter said he wanted to learn about the country's desires, it was translated to say he desired Polish people in a carnal sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while it's been said that Polish journalists exaggerated on this part it was widely reported that Seymour also mistranslated the innocuous statement that Carter was happy to be in Poland to the much less innocent claim that he was "happy to grasp at Poland's private parts." Related: Inside Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford's 'Intense Personal Friendship' That Defied Politics (Exclusive) Bettmann Archive President Jimmy Carter sits beside Polish Communist Party Leader Edward Gierek on Dec. 30, 1977 President Jimmy Carter sits beside Polish Communist Party Leader Edward Gierek on Dec. 30, 1977 Seymour was replaced the following day, though he later told The New York Times that he had no idea it was due to his performance or that he had quickly made America the butt of jokes in Poland until an American journalist asked him about his inaccuracies two days later, on New Year's Eve. I was proud what I had done under such a difficult situation, he told the newspaper. I was proud what I had done because my face was cold, my hands were numb, and I was soaked. What did me in was the lack of [previewing Carter's speech], and the absolutely dismal conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Joe Biden, Donald Trump and More Honor Jimmy Carter Following His Death at 100: 'A Man of Principle, Faith and Humility' Seymour's replacement, Polish translator Jerzy Krycki, reportedly confided, "I'm really scared," before standing at the president's side at a press conference on Dec. 30, 1977, according to the Post. Krycki's fears weren't quickly eased, either. As Carter began speaking, the translator remained silent, later admitting that he couldn't understand the president's Southern accent and decided that keeping quiet was better than mistranslating his words. UPI/Bettmann Archive/Getty President Jimmy Carter says goodbye to Polish officials as he departs for Iran on Dec. 31, 1977 President Jimmy Carter says goodbye to Polish officials as he departs for Iran on Dec. 31, 1977 Despite the series of translation flubs that overshadowed Carter's diplomatic efforts in headlines, the world leaders involved were forgiving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Post reported at the time that Poland's communist party leader, Edward Gierek, told U.S. journalists that, although he found Seymour's translations uncomfortable, "No Pole would say a bad word about a lady or an interpreter even when we have to grit our teeth." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer. And Carter, whose earnest speech was reported as a sexual come-on, made sure that Seymour didn't feel ashamed for the honest mistakes. When the translator died in 2014, his colleagues found a letter in Seymour's archives, according to The Guardian. Dont let the exaggerated criticisms disturb you, the letter read, signed, Your friend Jimmy Carter. Read the original article on People NEW DELHI, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, officials said. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) with the two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), 220 kg each, lifted off Monday from the launch pad of Sriharikota, off the Bay of Bengal coast located in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. "PSLV-C60 successfully launches SpaDeX and 24 payloads," ISRO said in a brief statement posted on social media. Television images showed a 44.5-meter rocket blasting off from the launch pad leaving behind thick fumes and then emitting a bright orange flame from its tail while moving upwards in the night sky. The SpaDeX mission consists of two small spacecraft launched by PSLV-C60, independently and simultaneously, into a 470 km circular orbit at 55 degrees inclination, with a local time cycle of about 66 days. The two spacecraft will now be directed towards achieving space docking in the next 10 days likely on January 7. According to ISRO, SpaDeX is a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions. How Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter impacted Charlotte CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The news of former President Jimmy Carters death brings to mind a small but significant impact he had on Charlotte after he left office. In the mid-1980s, former President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, started volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. In 1987, a Carter Work Project took place in Charlotte that had active participation by the couple in building homes that eventually helped over 300 families. The Carter Work Project returned to Charlotte in 2023 but with a notable absence. Both former President Carter and Rosalynn were in poor health, with Carter having gone into hospice earlier that year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosalynn Carter died a month after the Carter Work Project started their work in Charlotte. Officials at Habitat for Humanity for the Charlotte Region noted that much of the work they have done has touches of what the Carters brought to the organization. They have their fingerprints and impact imprinton the origins of our affiliate, said President and CEO Laura Belcher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Images courtesy of Habitat Charlotte Region Belcher noted concerns with the 2023 project and the Carters lack of involvement, but the volunteers presence alleviated those concerns. We had nearly 3,000 volunteers come in from across the country. We built 27 homes. And so I think that the idea of honoring what the Carters started is really important, said Belcher. Former President Carter was once asked about his involvement with the organization and said, Thats the times in my life when I have wept more than any other. For excitement and gratification, that I was privileged to participate with my wife in such a great project. The Carter Work Project will continue its work in 2025, with a build in Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. An attorney for two former Oklahoma State Department of Education employees who have sued state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters for wrongful termination is asking a federal judge to compel Walters to answer questions during the discovery phase of the lawsuits. Former agency employee Cheryl McGee sued Walters and Matt Langston, Walters Texas-based chief adviser, in May 2023, alleging she was wrongly punished for sharing agency communications outside of the department. Another former agency employee, Matt Colwell, filed a similar but separate lawsuit, and he and McGee share the same attorney Mark Hammons, of Oklahoma City. McGee once worked as the state agencys executive director of school based mental health, while Colwell served as its executive director of school success. As state superintendent, Walters is the top official at the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin dismissed the lawsuits against Walters and Langston in their official, professional capacities, but allowed them to continue against the two men in their personal capacities. That means Walters and Langston could be held personally financially liable should McGee and Colwell win their respective lawsuits. In their initial complaints, McGee and Colwell asked the court for all of (their) actual damages, for punitive damages and that the Plaintiff be awarded (their) costs and fees. According to court documents filed by Hammons two days after Christmas, McGee issued her opening discovery in the lawsuit on Oct. 8 and Walters responded on or about Nov. 18. But in those responses, Hammons told Goodwin, Walters and Langston raised objections based on the purported dichotomy between their official and individual capacities claiming they could not be required to answers questions about their official acts. An attachment filed that day shows the attorney for Walters and Langston Tim Davis, of Fort Worth, Texas used a boilerplate response for many of McGees discovery questions: Defendant objects to this request because it seeks information regarding the official operations of the Oklahoma State Department of Education but was directed to Defendant in his individual capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To respond to multiple other questions, Davis used another boilerplate answer: Defendant rejects to this request as overbroad and burdensome as stated. Two conferences between the attorneys didnt resolve the impasse, Hammons said, leading him to file the motions to ask Goodwin to compel the discovery from Walters and Langston. (A)n individual capacity suit is still based on official acts, Hammons wrote. The difference between official capacity and individual capacity merely refers whether the government actor is being held liable or whether his government employer is liable. That Walters is being sued for his improper, but official, acts, offers no basis for refusing to have Walters answer questions about what he did and why he did it. Walters, as an individual, has knowledge of what he did as an official. Hammons also said McGee and Colwell, as part of the discovery process, have submitted 16 requests for production of documents and that Walters has not produced any documents at this point. In four of Walters responses, Hammons said, Walters said all relevant documents have been produced by Defendant or the Oklahoma Department of Education in their motions to dismiss. But Walters and Langston, Hammons noted, did not file any documents or attachments as part of their motion to dismiss last May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clearly, Walters has the ability to produce the documents which Plaintiff has requested as he controls the very department which he claims possesses those documents, Hammons wrote. In this regard, Walters objection is mere gamesmanship which should not be permitted. On Monday, Hammons filed a nearly identical motion to compel in Colwell's lawsuit against Walters and Langston. Davis didnt immediately respond to an emailed request for comment, sent on Sunday afternoon, about Hammons filings. According to court filings, the discovery deadline in both cases is June 2, with pretrial reports due by July 14. Goodwin has set jury trials in both cases to begin on Aug. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters is, or has been, a defendant in at least 16 lawsuits filed in state and federal court since he became state superintendent in January 2023. He has lost one of those lawsuits and settled another, with the plaintiff that sued him receiving most of what it asked for in the lawsuit. Walters has yet to win any of those lawsuits. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Judge asked to compel discovery answers from Ryan Walters in lawsuits NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A federal judge temporarily blocked a Tennessee law that would require pornographic websites to make users verify their age to watch adult content less than two days before it was set to go into effect. The Protect Tennessee Minors Act, which passed last legislative session, requires websites containing a portion of content that is harmful to minors to make people prove they are at least 18 years old every hour while accessing their site. The law said websites could do this by requiring users to upload their photo IDs and a photo of themselves. Companies that dont comply could be charged with a felony under the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SEE ALSO: New Tennessee laws that take effect Jan. 1, 2025 The bill was sponsored by Republicans who told News 2 in April that pornography and other adult content has been proven dangerous for children. It can cause damage; it can cause mental health issues, Sen. Becky Duncan Massey (R-Knoxville), the bills sponsor, said. Theres a lot of data that supports its not good for people under 18. The Protect Tennessee Minors Act passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House, gaining support from some Democrats. Itll give us a chance to start talking about education for our children, Rep. G.A. Hardaway (D-Memphis) told News 2 in April. Sex education, formal and informal, for our children is the ultimate tool for their protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the Free Speech Coalition argued it violates the First Amendment and creates issues with privacy. Most consumers understand that if you are uploading your ID, there is going to be a risk that a hacker whether its a foreign bad actor or whether its the government is going to be able to surveil that, Mike Stabile with the Free Speech Coalition said. The Free Speech Coalition took the state to court and late Monday, a federal judge ruled the law likely violates the Constitution. The legislature has a compelling interest in protecting children from harmful content, Judge Sheryl H. Lipman wrote. But in its attempt to protect children, the State will unavoidably suppress a large amount of speech that adults have a First Amendment right to give and receive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS: Group files lawsuit against law requiring age verification Lipman pointed out that the laws most glaring flaw is that it is not the least restrictive means of advancing Tennessees interest in protecting minors from pornography, the ruling said. The judge wrote that blocking and filtering controls are both less restrictive and more effective than the states age verification law. The judges ruling has temporarily blocked the law from going into effect Jan. 1, 2025 until litigation is resolved. In response, Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti filed an emergency appeal. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) A Madison County judge has reversed a decision to hold a self-defense hearing for a man charged in the Twin Peaks deadly shooting before his preliminary hearing. Attorneys for Jeremiah Matkins say the issue of the immunity or self-defense, hearing has not yet been resolved, but the court has issued a new order setting his preliminary hearing for Jan. 8 and withdrawing its Dec. 17 order that set a Jan. 14 immunity hearing. NWS confirms additional surveys of storm damage across Tennessee Valley was straight-line wind Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matkins, 21, is charged with killing Rayshun Markelle Bates, 23, of Decatur on Nov. 9 inside the restaurant. The Huntsville Police Department said the shooting took place during an altercation between two groups of people. Under Alabama law, if a defendant can successfully argue to a judge he was acting in self-defense in a deadly encounter, the murder case is over. Matkins defense attorney Larry Marsili has argued Alabama law does not require the self-defense hearing to take place after a preliminary hearing, but it is uncommon. The defense says the law doesnt require a defendant to wait an extended period before being allowed to show he acted in self-defense. The Madison County District Attorneys Office opposed the request. But District Court Judge Linda Coats ruled on Dec. 17 in favor of the defense, finding that she could hold the immunity hearing and not wait for the case move to Madison County Circuit Court following an indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement POLICE: Huntsville woman arrested after man injured in shooting But on Dec. 19, Coats issued a new order saying the Dec. 17 order was withdrawn, the immunity hearing was canceled and the matter is under further advisement by the court. Last week she set Matkins preliminary hearing for Jan. 8. Marsili told News 19 today that Alabamas self-defense law is unclear, but that it was aimed at preventing long delays before a person could make a self-defense argument in a murder case. The spirit of that law is to shield people who act in self-defense from the tedious and costly process of being prosecuted for actions that are justified under the law, Marsili said. I cant imagine the lawmakers meant for a person acting in self-defense to have to wait potentially several years to be exonerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Generally, during a preliminary hearing, prosecutors introduce police testimony that spells out the case against the defendant and asks the court to send to the case to a grand jury for an indictment. The defense can cross-examine witnesses and call their own witnesses. The court is charged with deciding if there is probable cause to send the case to a grand jury. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Dec. 30A judge has refused to grant a new trial for Maria's New Mexican Kitchen or reduce the $31 million jury award handed down earlier this year in a civil case filed by an injured woman. Attorneys for the eatery and its owner, local restaurant group Santa Fe Dining Inc., had argued the award was improperly based on passion and prejudice. State District Judge Bryan Biedscheid acknowledged during an hourslong hearing Monday he was "surprised" when jurors ordered Maria's and Santa Fe Dining to pay $21 million in punitive damages in addition to $10 million in compensatory damages to a woman injured in Maria's parking lot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However Biedscheid said, having observed the jurors' demeanor during the four-day trial, he believed they had arrived at a decision after they "thoughtfully considered the evidence" and their verdict will stand. Jurors made the award to plaintiff Megan Jade Gonzalez in April. Gonzalez said in a lawsuit against the restaurant she slipped and fell in a pothole in the parking lot and suffered a spinal cord injury, which her attorneys said will impact her for the rest of her life. Attorneys Timothy Atler who represented the restaurant, and Jeffry Ray, who represented Santa Fe Dining, filed a motion seeking a new trial or "remitter," which would have reduced the award. They argued the award was based in part on the jurors' feelings about local art and real estate magnate Gerald Peters, who largely owns the company. "A number of things were done ... that did anger the jury, we think, including references to Mr. Peters, who appears to arouse some strong responses from folks in the community," Ray argued Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorneys also argued the verdict wasn't based on substantial evidence for example, they said, there was little more than attorney testimony the pothole had caused prior injuries. The plaintiff's attorney, Leon Hunt, argued the award might seem large, but the punitive damages were only 2.1 times the compensatory damages, in line with what the plaintiff had sought. "That number suggests the jury made reasoned decisions," Hunt said. He also argued the defendants had to prove there wasn't sufficient evidence to support punitive damages or that the jurors were "infected with prejudice, passion or improper motive," which, he said, they were not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A ruling against a jury's verdict is a drastic remedy, and it is reserved for the most drastic of cases, of which this is simply not one of them," Hunt said. Ray said after the hearing Monday the defendants were "disappointed with the ruling, but we'll continue to brief and continue to work on appellate matters at the next level." Hunt noted in an interview the effects of Gonzalez's injury. Although she was not paralyzed by the fall, he said, she suffered a serious spinal cord injury. He also said the restaurant had been aware of the pothole for about a year before her fall and and didn't repair it for, "at the very least," a year afterward. "What's so important about this case is understanding that sometimes things can happen that really do affect people ... and that the defendants had a chance to make it right in terms of just keeping the place safe, and they just didn't do it ... and that's why we were really proud of the jury verdict," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, "The jury was willing to do something courageous, which is hard to do." Maria's is one of several restaurants owned by Santa Fe Dining whose state liquor licenses expired earlier this year, forcing them to stop serving alcohol. Some of them closed temporarily. The restaurants' troubles came as Peters faced a series of lawsuits from creditors. But Hunt indicated Monday that Maria's would not be responsible for paying the jury award. He said Gonzalez filed the civil case because an insurance company chose not to settle with her, and an insurance company will foot the bill. "I know there was some concerns about the individual restaurant paying this, but this is really an insurance issue," Hunt said. "It should have been taken care of a long time ago. It wasn't. And so now an insurance company is going to be ultimately responsible for the entirety of the verdict." By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) -A federal judge in Connecticut refused to dismiss a long-running lawsuit accusing the former Nestle Waters North America of defrauding consumers by labeling its Poland Spring bottled water as "spring water." While rejecting some claims in the proposed class action, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer in New Haven called it an open question whether Poland Spring qualified as spring water under the laws of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poland Spring is now owned by Tampa, Florida-based Primo Brands, following multiple corporate transactions. Consumers sued Nestle Waters, then owned by Nestle, in 2017, saying it deceived them into overpaying for Poland Spring with labels declaring it to be "Natural Spring Water" or "100% Natural Spring Water." The plaintiffs said "not one drop" of the 1 billion gallons sold annually in the United States came from a natural spring, and that the actual Poland Spring in Maine "ran dry" two decades before Nestle bought the brand in 1992. In seeking a dismissal, Nestle Waters said geologists and officials in the eight states agreed that Poland Spring complied with a U.S. Food and Drug Administration rule defining spring water, and each state authorized its sale as "spring water." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the judge cited a former Syracuse University earth sciences professor hired by the plaintiffs, who said Nestle Waters appeared to use man-made springs and extracted pond water and other surface water instead of "true" spring water. Meyer agreed with Nestle Waters that the plaintiffs lacked standing to demand new labels, because they now knew the alleged "truth" about Poland Spring and could buy other brands of water. In a statement, Primo said it was confident the Maine springs that source Poland Spring comply with the FDA rule. "Poland Spring brand bottled water is 100% spring water," the company said. "We remain confident in our position and look forward to successfully defending against the remaining claims." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Nestle Waters had been Nestle's North American bottled water business. Nestle sold it in 2021 to two private equity firms, which renamed it BlueTriton. That company merged in November with the former Primo Water to form Primo Brands. The case is Patane v. Nestle Waters North America Inc, U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut, No. 17-01381. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Aurora Ellis) MIDLAND/ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The West Texas Food Bank is celebrating a successful partnership with JumBurrito, who raised over $12,000 during the 2024 holiday season, providing over 24,000 meals for needy families across the Permian Basin. Since 2010, JumBurritos annual fundraiser has been a cornerstone of community support. For each transaction, $0.50 was donated to the WTFB, resulting in the $12,072.50 money raised, which was increased to 15,000 personally by JumBurritos owner, Jose Cuevas Jr. The combined contribution created 30,000 meals for needy families and individuals across the Permian Basin. We are beyond thankful for partnerships like we have with JumBurrito and their loyal customers, Libby Stephens, the West Texas Food Banks CEO said. These meals represent more than nourishment; they represent hope, care, and compassion during a time of year when many in our community are in greatest need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This partnership highlights how local businesses and nonprofits can join forces to create lasting change. Funds raised by JumBurrito not only support meal creation but also bolster the WTXFBs efforts to combat food insecurity across the region. The West Texas Food Bank invites the community to continue supporting businesses like JumBurrito that prioritize giving back. Together, we can ensure that no one in the Permian Basin goes hungry. West Texas Food Bank Director of External affair, Autumn Simpson Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. The Enquirer's Just Askin' series aims to answer the questions that no one seems to have an answer for, not even Google. It's a Cincinnati mystery that's perplexed train enthusiasts and history buffs for over a century: an abandoned railroad tunnel that allegedly contains a Civil War-era train engine. The city attempted to build a narrow-gauge railway through the West Side, known as the Cincinnati Western Railroad, in the mid-19th century. Chartered in 1851, construction on the railroad began atop Roll Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The starting point of the railway is on the southern edge of what is now Villages at Roll Hill, formerly the Fay Apartments. The initial plans were to build it out through the Mill Creek Valley toward the what is now Interstate 74 and eventually to Chicago but the project went bankrupt before it could be completed. Part of the tunnel still exists, but it's closed off now for safety reasons. History enthusiasts say the entombed train engine might be more than urban legend, thanks to some hints that emerged throughout the past 160-plus years. Is there a Civil War train engine beneath Roll Hill in Cincinnati? There's no way to know for sure whether the train engine is actually there, but there have been some indications it might actually exist, according to Dave Pittinger, a local history buff who's been studying the legend for over four decades. The Cincinnati Western Railroad went bankrupt and ceased operations in 1855, leaving behind remnants of the tunnel. The stretch that was completed remained abandoned. The end of the former Cincinnati Western Railroad tunnel is long closed off. It was located just off of where Faraday Road is now. The area surrounding the steep and winding road, which connects Villages at Roll Hill and South Cumminsville, is prone to landslides. It all came to a head a century later when the Fay Apartments were under construction in the 1960s. While construction workers were grading the area, the tunnel collapsed under the heavy equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A couple courageous workers ventured toward the Faraday Road side of the property and peeked into the tunnel. There, one claimed he saw the copper bell on the small engine, but was forced back by police when they arrived. Each end was blasted with dynamite and closed not long after. Naysayers believe the tunnel doesn't exist, but old road records and maps Pittinger has found indicate otherwise. Plus, landslides remain an issue to this day surrounding Faraday Road down Roll Hill, in part due to the cavern beneath. Some other brave souls attempted to find the tunnel in the 1970s and '80s, as told in a 1997 Enquirer article. Pittinger has tried to get professionals to unearth the engine, but so far he's had no takers. It's a story that's fascinated Pittinger since he interned at the Hamilton County Recorder's Office as a college student. Forty years later, he's the county recorder's chief of staff, and hopes one day the dreams of his youth will come true and the train will be excavated and put in a museum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If it's in a pocket, it's possible it's still there," he said. "It's the train that belongs to the people of Cincinnati. It would be great to pull it out someday and put it on display." Do you have a question for Just Askin'? Send it to us at localnews@enquirer.com. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Is there an entombed train engine beneath Roll Hill in Cincinnati? Passengers described the scary experience when their plane had to make an emergency landing Monday night. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Around 7:50 p.m. a United Airlines flight from Charleston, West Virginia was diverted to Dayton International Airport (DAY). The flight was originally headed to Chicago, Illinois. Jessica Engstrom and Chris Mitchell were on that flight and described that chaotic scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Engstrom said when the plane reached around 30,000ft she and Mitchell began to smell smoke. We were just kind of looking at each other like whats going on?, she said. At first, Engstrom said the flight attendant seemed calm, but that quickly changed. TRENDING STORIES: Within a couple of minutes our one flight attendant was running back and forth it looked like to the bathroom because were all the way to the front of the plane, she said. A DAY spokesperson confirmed to News Center 7 that the smoke was in the cockpit. Within minutes the plane began to descend to make an emergency landing at DAY. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Engstrom and Mitchell said they were told they would be evacuating the plane as soon as it landed and not waiting until they arrived at the gate. We just both said a prayer that we would be okay and we knew that we would be okay, Engstrom said. Coming down it was a little scary, but after you could tell we were coming in to land everything was fine, Mitchell said. Both praised the flight attendant for staying calm and making sure passengers evacuated the plane quickly and safely. Phenomenal job, Mitchell said. Kudos to her. Engstrom and Mitchell said they were given hotel and food vouchers while they looked for another flight to Chicago. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] SEOUL, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's constitutional court on Tuesday called for an early appointment of justices to fill three vacancies on the nine-member bench for President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment trial over his martial law imposition. A spokesperson of the court told a televised press briefing that the incumbent justices urged the "rapid completion" of the constitutional court during a meeting on Monday. She noted that the six justices maintained their position of putting Yoon's impeachment trial as a top priority. On Dec. 26, the country's parliament voted for the appointment of the three justices, two of which were nominated by the main opposition Democratic Party, while one was nominated by the ruling People Power Party. The appointment of the three justices, which was passed in the opposition-controlled National Assembly, is required to be ceremonially approved by the president. Economy and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, who doubles as deputy prime minister for economic affairs, became an acting president following the impeachment of both President Yoon and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Han was impeached by the National Assembly after officially refusing to ratify the appointment of the justices. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14 and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's presidential power is suspended. Yoon, who was named by investigative agencies as a suspect on insurrection charge, declared an emergency martial law on the night of Dec. 3, but it was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. To oust Yoon from office, at least six out of nine constitutional court justices are required to uphold the impeachment motion. EAST NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) We just want to feel safe. Thats how East Nashville residents describe their current state of mind after they say around a dozen cars were broken into just on their street. Metro police said theyll have extra patrols after multiple cars were broken into across East Nashville last weekend on the following streets: Gallatin Rd., Main St., Woodland St., Russell St. Pennington Ave., Dellway Villa, Oakwood Ave., and more. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Russell has a history. I like this street because its a mix of people, said Rebecca Weiner Tompkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now, all Weiner Tompkins can see is broken glass scattered across her street. There were 12 cars on this street then Holly Street, Edgehill, Lockland Spring, then up further out near Porter Road. Her truck was also broken into in front of her home. She said thankfully nothing was stolen. Its the usual thing, I think people say what are people looking for? Guns. Because many people leave their guns in the car. According to recent Metro Nashville Police data, over 1,200 guns were stolen from vehicles in Davidson County in 202473% of guns stolen were taken from cars. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yesterday, I was supposed to spend the day with my grandkids, but I couldnt get them because I spent hours cleaning up the glass, taping the windows, Weiner Tompkins said. However, this isnt the only crime Weiner Tompkins fell victim to this holiday season. She said this happened just moments after she saw UPS dropping off packages on her doorstep. Literally ten minutes later my phone beeped again, and I saw someone come up and take a stack of packages. Her home is surrounded with alarms and a Ring doorbell camera for her safety. She said unfortunately they didnt deter criminals. The bottom line is people want to feel safe, all of us do. No matter what kind of background no one wants to feel like they cant live their livesits an emotional feeling where it feels like someone is against you, Weiner Tompkins said. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Metro police remind citizens to remove firearms and any valuables from their vehicle and to never leave their keys inside the car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau resigned as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday, after facing immense pressure to step down from members of his own party since his deputy prime minister resigned over concerns about Donald Trumps tariffs. Facing low approval ratings in part due to the cost of living crisis, signs were mounting that Canadians had lost faith in the Liberal Party, which Trudeau has led as prime minister since 2015. But internal confidence plummeted in mid-December, when Chrystia Freeland, the deputy prime minister and head of finance, unexpectedly resigned citing disagreements over the handling of Trumps proposed 25 percent tariffs on the country an issue that could damage the economy. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau finally bowed to pressure from members of his own party (AFP via Getty Images) In the following weeks, dozens of Liberal MPs called on Trudeau to step down. In December, a majority of Liberal MPs in the province of Ontario agreed, on a call, that Trudeau should step down, according to CBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve reached a breaking point, said one Liberal who attended the meeting, and was granted anonymity to speak freely, according to Politico. Theres a critical mass now that has been reached and that was not in place before. Ontario is the countrys most populous province, and support from the Liberals there put Trudeaus confidence on life-support. Then, on Friday, George Chahal, a Liberal MP for Calgary Skyview, penned a letter to the liberal caucus urging them to support others in calling for Trudeau to step down and appoint an interim leader. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau no longer has the support of caucus and to maintain some dignity he should immediately tender his resignation, Chahal wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The developments arrived amid resignation calls from the Liberal Partys Atlantic caucus, Conservatives and the New Democratic Party. Trudeau announced his intent to resign in a televized statement (AP) Trudeau was all but physically backed into a corner as the opposition parties, Conservatives, the New Democratic Party and Bloc Quebecois, signaled they would move for a non-confidence vote in January when Parliament was slated to return, claiming the Liberal government does not have the confidence of Parliament. That non-confidence vote could have triggered early federal election country which Liberals were widely expected to not survive. But upon returning from a ski vacation with his family on Monday, Trudeau announced he was stepping down answering Liberals calls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option, Trudeau said. The Liberal Party will now begin its process of selecting a new leader. Trudeau said he asked Parliament to be suspended until March. Opposition parties are still expected to hold a confidence vote which could move the federal elections up from October. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Public health officials haver their eyes on an old childhood concern whooping cough. National case totals for that bacterial infection are climbing, including those here in the Kansas City metro. That has local medical professionals advising the public about moves they can take to keep themselves and others healthy. Public health officials complain the numbers are getting back to the totals we saw before the pandemic, since many of the precautions taken during COVID times are no longer as common, including distancing and proper hand hygiene. Whooping cough, or pertussis as doctors know it, is thought of as being a childhood ailment, but doctors say it can affect adults, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Centers for Disease Control says public health officials are now aware of more than 32,000 cases of pertussis from 2024, compared to fewer than 6,500 cases from a year ago. Those totals are climbing in Missouri and Kansas, with triple digit increases from 2023s case totals for whooping cough. Trader Joes is opening a dozen new locations in 2025: Heres where The CDC cites preliminary data showing that more than six times as many cases have been reported with two weeks to go in the year, as reported on December 14, 2024, compared to the same time in 2023. We know there are decreased vaccination rates, overall, Dr. Dana Hawkinson, an infectious disease specialist with the University of Kansas Health System, said on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawkinson recommends everyone to renew their vaccinations against pertussis every 10 years. Many people were vaccinated as children, but Hawkinson and others advise those vaccine doses, while effective, naturally lose their potency over time. Symptoms like heavy coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge and fever are making patients feel terrible for weeks at a time. Hawkinson said unprotected adults are often spreading it to others, including young children. We know that the most vulnerable populations are those especially under two who can suffer from this illness the most, so it is vitally important that the adults who are around protect the most vulnerable populations around, Hawkinson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Case totals in the Kansas City metro mirror those nationally. Stacie Province, health services division director with the Johnson County Health Department, said whooping cough symptoms can often look like those of other ailments, so seeing a doctors and staying home while sick can play important roles. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri The best thing we can do is to make sure people stay home if they are ill. Also, catching pertussis early, which can be tricky, since it has a lot of the same symptoms as other respiratory illnesses, Province told FOX4. Children younger than a year are still the most vulnerable audience. Many adults were vaccinated against pertussis as kids. Both Province and Hawkinson say those vaccinations, while effective, naturally lose their effects over time. They recommend updating those vaccinations every 10 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Dec. 30The names of the two victims in Friday's homicide and apparent suicide incident were released late Friday by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, which is continuing the investigation begun by local law enforcement. The Barton County Sheriff's Office requested the KBI investigate at approximately 10 a.m. Friday, who responded with agents and the Crime Scene Response Team. According to KBI spokesperson Natalie Turner, the Great Bend Police Department was dispatched at approximately 9:12 a.m. to a business in the 1500 block of Seventh Street. Upon their arrival, officers were told by witnesses that Mario Martinez-Garcia, 32, entered the workplace of Esmeralda Torres-Lopez, 32, and forced her outside, where he shot her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Torres-Lopez was transported to the University of Kansas Health System Great Bend campus, where she was pronounced dead a short time later. Meanwhile, Martinez-Garcia fled the scene in a white 2021 Chevrolet Silverado pickup. Officers spotted the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and began pursuit, which led to speeds in excess of 90 mph as the suspect vehicle traveled south down U.S. 281 toward St. John in Stafford County. Stop sticks were deployed which deflated the vehicle's driver's side tires. The chase continued through the U.S. 281 and U.S. 50 junction, where it then proceeded westward on U.S. 50. As the chase approached mile marker 91, a BCSO deputy conducted a tactical vehicle intervention, causing the vehicle to leave the road and crash through a barbed-wire fence, coming to rest in a field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers approaching with caution discovered the body of Martinez-Garcia, who had a single gunshot wound to his head and a gun in his hand. He was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were incurred in the incident. Autopsies of Torres-Lopez and Martinez-Garcia who the KBI reported were "significant others in a relationship," were scheduled as standard procedure. Once the KBI's investigation is complete, they will present their findings to the Stafford County Attorney for review. Gov. Laura Kelly said Tuesday a $2.69 million federal grant allows the Kansas Department of Transportation to overhaul the state's vehicle crash information system and expand use of driver's license scanners by local law enforcement agencies to speed reporting of accidents. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA A $2.69 million federal grant allows the Kansas Department of Transportation to rebuild the states vehicle crash information system and expand use of drivers license scanners by local law enforcement agencies to speed reporting of accidents. On Tuesday, Gov. Laura Kelly said funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would enable the state to overhaul the Kansas Crash Data System and better integrate the system with law enforcement agencies statewide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accurate, timely data is essential for developing strategies to reduce crashes and the severity of injuries, Kelly said. KDOT receives electronic reports of traffic accidents from the Kansas Highway Patrol through the Kansas Law Enforcement Reporting System or KLER. Approximately half of information on Kansas crashes must be entered manually because many local law enforcement agencies dont have electronic systems compatible with KLER. The project includes distribution of 1,000 drivers license scanners to law enforcement agencies to encourage adoption of electronic reporting. Ultimately, this initiative will streamline our current processes, improve data accuracy and provide quicker access to actionable information, said Calvin Reed, secretary of the state Department of Transportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal program reflected a requirement in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed in 2021 by President Joe Biden to issue grants to states for standardizing state crash data systems. In 2023, KDOTs reporting system documented 59,865 traffic accidents in Kansas. Those wrecks were associated with 387 fatalities and 19,298 injuries. Overall, there were 131,000 pedestrians or vehicle occupants involved in Kansas crashes during the year. KDOTs summary indicated common reasons for Kansas accidents included: inattention, 17.9%; animals, 12.8%; right of way violations, 10.9%; following too closely, 7.8%; and driving too fast for conditions, 5.5%. In terms of traffic crashes and incidence of fatalities, KDOT said there were 10,650 collisions with deer leading to seven deaths during 2023. Other categories: fixed objects, 9,319 wrecks with 107 deaths; speeding, 4,354 and 80; heavy trucks, 3,478 and 84; overturning, 2,881 and 138; snow and ice, 2,190 and four; alcohol, 2,200 and 67; and pedestrians, 978 and 45. The son of North Dakota Sen. Kevin Cramer (R) was sentenced Monday to 28 years in prison over a police chase and death of a local sheriffs deputy. Ian Cramer, 43, was charged with manslaughter last December after he crashed his familys SUV into a police cruiser, concluding an hourlong chase. He killed the sheriffs deputy standing behind the vehicle. Ian Cramer pleaded guilty in September to homicide while fleeing a peace officer, preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, fleeing an officer and drug-and driving-related offenses, The Associated Press reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mercer County Sheriffs Deputy Paul Martin, 53, died in the incident on Dec. 6, 2023. District Judge Bobbi Weiler sentenced Ian Cramer to 38 years in prison with 10 years suspended, three years of probation and credit since he served more than a year in jail, the AP reported. Ian Cramer was also recommended to receive treatment for addiction and mental health. He likely will not serve the full 28-year sentence, Weiler said. Weiler said the states Department of Corrections has its own policy about how much time Ian Cramer will serve. These are not mandatory minimums, which means that youre probably going to serve a small portion of that 28 years and be out on parole, so thatll give you an opportunity to have a second chance that Deputy Martin does not have, nor does his family have, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ian Cramer said he had no intention of killing Martin and apologized to his family. He said it was best for him to seek treatment in a hospital, the AP said. Martin was outside his patrol car, attempting to deploy a tire deflation device to end the pursuit of Ian Cramer when he was killed. Kevin Cramer, who has served North Dakota in the Senate since 2019, said last year his son was suffering from mental health issues that cause him to experience paranoia and hallucinations. The senator said his wife, Kris, had taken their son to the emergency room after he was insisting to see his brother, Ike, who died in 2018. When Kris Cramer stepped out of the vehicle, Ian Cramer jumped into the drivers seat and fled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sentencing focused on Ian Cramers addiction and his mental health issues. He admitted to using methamphetamine and bath salts the day of the crash, the county attorney said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. DOGE's Vivek Ramaswamy said eighth graders' reading scores in 2022 were "downright brutal." He said eliminating the Education Department would help improve literacy in the US. Education experts told BI that eliminating the department likely wouldn't help boost reading scores. One of the business leaders tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to suggest cuts for government spending said axing the Education Department would help boost kids' reading scores in the US. Education policy experts say it's not that simple. Vivek Ramaswamy, who is tasked with leading a new commission called the Department of Government Efficiency alongside Elon Musk, called reading proficiency scores for eighth graders "downright brutal" in a Sunday post on X. "This is a 5-alarm fire & President Trump's vision to dismantle the Department of Education is the first step to fixing it," Ramaswamy wrote in response to a separate post highlighting the low reading scores. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Assessment of Education Progress found that 31% of eighth graders were proficient in reading in 2022 3 percentage points lower than the 2019 score. It's unclear how eliminating the federal Education Department which would require congressional action would help boost literacy scores. Education policy experts across the political spectrum said that the department oversees federal grants and data collection that monitor students' progress. Weade James, the senior director for K-12 education policy at the left-leaning think tank Center for American Progress, told Business Insider that there's "no proof" eliminating the department would boost literacy. "What we know is proven is that the department provides an opportunity for every child to have access and opportunity to receive a high-quality education," James said. "What is unproven is that closing the Department of Education is going to actually fix the literacy challenges that we're experiencing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department was founded in 1979, eight years after the National Assessment of Educational Progress began collecting long-term reading-assessment data and the data found that reading scores were slightly higher after the department was established. When previously asked how Trump's pick for education secretary, Linda McMahon, would address literacy, Liz Huston, a Trump-Vance transition spokesperson, said that given McMahon's "extensive background in the business world, government, and serving on Connecticut's School Board, she is ready to deliver on President Trump's agenda to restore America's education system and prepare our next generation for the future." The Education Department's role in literacy While reading scores over the past decades have fluctuated, there's never been a year in which students excelled in literacy, with the share of eighth graders meeting the department's reading proficiency standards ranging from a low of 29% in 1992 to a high of 36% in 2013 and 2017. The pandemic set back many children's reading progress, education experts previously told BI, along with a lack of consistent state and federal investment in reading instruction. Nat Malkus, a senior fellow and deputy director of education policy at the conservative think tank American Enterprise Institute, told BI that Ramaswamy is right to be concerned about kids' reading scores, but the idea that eliminating the Education Department will address those scores "doesn't hold a lot of water." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If it weren't for the Department of Education, we wouldn't know the statistics that he's citing about how many students are proficient at reading," Malkus said. "I think the administration is interested in changing the way funds flow with fewer strings," Malkus added, "but whether that will actually get through what is still a very closely divided Congress seems dubious." Ramaswamy, Musk, and Trump, along with some Republican lawmakers, have supported dismantling the Education Department in favor of giving states more power over kids' education. Malkus said, though, that states are already largely in control of education states, rather than the federal government, set classroom curricula and most school policies. The Education Department's main role is to facilitate federal funding and research. James said more investment in the Institute of Education Sciences a nonpartisan research arm within the department could "help us to identify, what is the effective literacy instruction that students need." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also said the Education Department has the power to establish and expand grants that could foster partnerships with local school districts and researchers to equip teachers on the best literacy practices. The Education Department oversees several grant programs, including $18.4 billion in funding for the Title I program, which provides federal assistance to school districts to help low-income students. Read the original article on Business Insider COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) A man who was shot dead last month as authorities attempted to serve him an indictment on federal gun charges has been identified as the killer of an 18-year-old Ohio woman in a case that had gone unsolved for 43 years, police announced Monday. Mansfield Police Chief Jason Bammann said the cold case of Debra Lee Miller, a local waitress beaten to death with an oven grate in her apartment on April 29, 1981, was reopened in 2021 to account for advances in DNA technology and forensic investigative techniques. They examined the case as if it had happened yesterday, through an entirely new lens, Bammann said at a news conference. Their findings were staggering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chief said a firm DNA profile of James Vanest, at the time Miller's 26-year-old upstairs neighbor, emerged from evidence left from the room. Vanest had been questioned but never identified as a suspect during the initial investigation, which became mired in allegations of potential police misconduct. Miller was one of several people from the Mansfield area whose suspicious deaths in the 1980s were examined for possible links to Mansfield police officers. A special investigation ordered by the mayor concluded in 1989 that there was no evidence linking any officers with the deaths, but the report raised questions about sexual involvement between police officers and homicide victim Miller and about the way police investigated some homicides. The report noted that Miller wrote in her diary that she was sexually involved with several Mansfield police officers. The local police chief retired in January 1990, after subsequent complaints arose over alleged irregularities in the investigation of the death of the ex-wife of a Mansfield patrolman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miller's case was reopened several times during the ensuing years. This time, Richland County Prosecutor Jodie Schumacher said the DNA evidence against Vanest was strong enough that her office was preparing a case against him for the killing to take to a grand jury. But the case was never able to be presented. Police had found Vanest living in Canton, about 100 miles (160.93 kilometers) east of Mansfield, in November 2021 and re-interviewed him about Miller's killing. He had admitted to lying to investigators during his first interview in 1981 and investigators sensed this time that he was trying to create an alibi to account for his DNA being present in Miller's apartment, Bammann said. Mansfield Police Detective Terry Butler sought a second interview in spring 2024, but Vanest refused to speak and requested an attorney. Authorities said he subsequently sold his house in Canton, bought a pickup truck and trailer and fled to West Virginia. He left several firearms at his Canton home and was stopped in West Virginia with two more. He was arrested on state charges and released on bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives took over his case and later indicted him on the federal gun charges. On Nov. 18, U.S. Marshals and Canton-area SWAT officers attempted to serve Vanest with that indictment at a North Canton motel where he was holed up. It is our understanding that when confronted by Marshals and the Canton Regional SWAT team, Mr. Vanest pointed a gun at them and barricaded himself inside the hotel, Bammann said. After a short shootout, one Canton SWAT member was shot in the arm, and Mr. Vanest was fatally shot. The chief said the department considers the case closed and hopes identifying Miller's killer will bring her family some closure. Butler said his great-uncle was one of the first officers on the scene of Miller's killing in 1981. He said he feels fortunate to get the chance to solve a homicide that happened when he was just 10 years old. People should know, he said, we don't give up, we keep digging. Retracing Edgar Snow's western journey: New development in old revolutionary counties in NW China People's Daily Online) 15:29, December 31, 2024 American journalist Edgar Snow once described the Long March as one of the most remarkable achievements in military history. He highlighted the Red Army's extraordinary resilience and unwavering dedication, traits he found unmatched in any other foreign military. Just as the Long March left a profound impression on Snow, the development and construction of these remote western towns and cities in harsh environments in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Gansu Province have similarly amazed Alvaro Lago from People's Daily Online. (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows an urban view of Yangon, Myanmar. The provisional results of Myanmar's 2024 population and housing census show a total population of 51,316,756 on census night, Sept. 30, 2024, according to a recent statement released by the Department of Population under the Ministry of Immigration and Population. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) YANGON, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The provisional results of Myanmar's 2024 population and housing census show a total population of 51,316,756 on census night, Sept. 30, 2024, according to a recent statement released by the Department of Population under the Ministry of Immigration and Population. The figure includes 32,191,407 individuals directly enumerated and an additional 19,125,349 estimated using remote sensing technology for areas where enumeration was not possible, the statement said. These figures will serve as a reference until the final census report is published, it added. The provisional results indicate that, including the estimated population of unenumerated areas, 31 percent of Myanmar's population resides in urban areas, while 69 percent lives in rural areas, it said. Yangon region has the highest proportion of urban residents at 68 percent, followed by Kachin State, Mon State, and Nay Pyi Taw, each with 35 percent of their population living in urban areas, it added. The census night was set for Sept. 30, 2024, with the enumeration process conducted from Oct. 1 to 15, it said. However, due to transportation challenges and security concerns, the enumeration period was extended in certain areas until the second week of December, it added. The 2024 population and housing census was conducted using mobile tablets equipped with the computer-assisted personal interviewing system, eliminating the need for paper questionnaires, it said. This digital approach enabled real-time data transmission to a central server, it added. Since gaining independence, Myanmar has conducted nationwide censuses in 1973, 1983 and 2014, according to the department. People visit the bank of Inya Lake in Yangon, Myanmar, Dec. 31, 2024. The provisional results of Myanmar's 2024 population and housing census show a total population of 51,316,756 on census night, Sept. 30, 2024, according to a recent statement released by the Department of Population under the Ministry of Immigration and Population. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) People visit the bank of Inya Lake in Yangon, Myanmar, Dec. 31, 2024. The provisional results of Myanmar's 2024 population and housing census show a total population of 51,316,756 on census night, Sept. 30, 2024, according to a recent statement released by the Department of Population under the Ministry of Immigration and Population. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) North Korea has unveiled a new destroyer equipped with an advanced missile system that will become the largest warship in its growing navy. State media released images of Kim Jong-un, North Koreas leader, inspecting the ship at a facility that analysts believe was the Nampho Dockyard, on the west coast of the country. The images of the unfinished vessel indicate that it will have a beam of around 50ft and is likely to be approximately 330ft from bow to stern. At more than 3,600 tonnes, it will be significantly larger than the 1,360-tonne frigate that is presently the largest in the Norths maritime armoury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A picture of the bow also reveals an empty area directly in front of the main superstructure that is expected to house vertical launch missile systems capable of firing cruise or guided missiles. The ship is likely a destroyer and the largest warship ever constructed in the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea], Joseph Dempsey, an analyst at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Seoul-based NK News. Weapons-wise, the large aperture immediately forward of the bridge would imply [plans to install a] possible vertical launching system for missiles, although he added that it remains still too early to make firm predictions about its overall capabilities. In the last year or so, Kim has indicated that he intends to step up the development and output of the domestic shipbuilding industry at the same time as strengthening the nations naval capabilities. His comments have included references to obtaining larger warships. State media released images of Kim Jong-un inspecting the new warship - KCTV The new ship comes as North Korea is growing closer to Russia following a new security pact in 2024 that committed both countries to mutual military assistance if the other was invaded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Analysts noted that the new North Korean ship looked similar to the Russian Admiral Grigorovich-class. It could be an attempt by North Korea to significantly strengthen its conventional power, including its inferior naval power as well as nuclear and missile capabilities, through cooperation with Russia, Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told South Korean media. Mr Dempsey also pointed out that Kim toured a Russian naval base and ships during a trip to the Russian far east port of Vladivostok in September 2023. State media reported on Tuesday that Kim has sent a personal letter to Vladimir Putin to mark the new year in which he hails the Russian leader as his dearest friend and comrade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a hint that he hopes to receive even more military and economic assistance in the future, Kim also used the letter to express his willingness to design and push ahead with new projects after the two nations meaningful journey in 2024. An Amnok-class corvette of the North Korean navy fires a cruise missile - KCNA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, during a visit to a new naval base, the North Korean leader said that as the navy was, soon to possess large surface warships and submarines which cannot be anchored at the existing facilities for mooring warships, the construction of a naval base for running the latest large warships has become a pressing task. A report by South Koreas defence intelligence agency said that there were indications that the North has started to construct a new submarine at the Sinpo naval yards. Given the greater size of the vessel in comparison to the rest of the Norths submarine fleet, the intelligence agency suggested the vessel may be nuclear-powered. As far back as 2021, Kim told a meeting of the ruling Workers Party that a nuclear submarine should be among the advanced weapons systems that had to be built. Meanwhile last year, Pyongyang announced that it intended to deter US reconnaissance flights off its coast by constantly deploying a ship loaded with new-type anti-aircraft missiles. Mr Dempsey says there appears little point in North Korea investing heavily in a bigger navy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the perceived prestige and propaganda value, it is unclear why Pyongyang would benefit from investment in larger warships, he wrote on the IISS web site in October. Historically, there has been little demonstrated will, value or experience in naval-power projection beyond the relative safety of its home waters, including reluctance to even navigate around the peninsula, meaning shipbuilding projects are typically duplicated on each coast. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. In May 1974, Gov. Jimmy Carter delivered a blistering Law Day address at the University of Georgia to a distinguished audience of lawyers and public officials, along with members of the press corps. Quietly preparing to run for the presidency two years hence, Carter decided to shake things up, forsaking the usual honorifics in favor of some startling remarks about the oppressive unfairness of American criminal justice. He forthrightly denounced a rigged and racist system that patently served the interests of the affluent and powerful at the expense of everyone else, especially the poor. His voice rising in anger, Carter called to account everyone in this room who is in a position of responsibility as a preserver of the law in its purest form, himself included. Nearly as unorthodox as Carters denunciation were his remarks crediting two writers with shaping his thoughts on whats right and wrong in this society, both surprising names for a conventional politician to mention. One was the renowned theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, whose Christian realist theology had strong political implications, at odds with naive liberal do-goodism and equally naive conservative narrowness about the one true faith. The other influence, Carter said, was a great poet named Bob Dylan, whom he called a friend. (The two had met three months earlier when Carter invited Dylan, then on tour with the Band in Atlanta, to the governors mansion.) As he cited Niebuhr on establishing redemptive justice in a sinful world, so he cited Dylans Maggies Farm, The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll, and more, on the same theme and on the dynamism of change in a modern society. Out in the audience, the gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson could scarcely believe his ears. Thompson was covering Sen. Edward M. Kennedys own incipient presidential campaign for Rolling Stone; the senator had addressed the Law Day assembly the day before and remained for the rest of the proceedings, so Thompson did too. What the hell did I just hear? he asked a Kennedy aide, who, smirking, replied that Gov. Carter had just announced that his two top advisers are Bob Dylan and Reinhold Niebuhr. That did it: Thompson leapt to his feet, ran to his car to retrieve a tape recorder, and captured the rest of what he would later call Carters king hell bastard of a speech. Thompson then decided to write a Rolling Stone cover profile of Carter that helped establish the governor as a serious contender for the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Carter won the Democratic presidential nomination two years later, Thompson would complain that the candidate was no longer speaking as he had on Law Day, although Thompson acknowledged that if Carter did so he would probably destroy his campaign. But in that first encounter, the renegade reporter detected something of a renegade in Carter, too, or at least something different. It was not just Carters affinity for genuine ideas and unlikely heroes (unlikely, anyway, for a Georgia governor in 1974) that struck Thompson. It was also Carters willingness to talk passionately and honestly about some of the nations worst ills, aiming to discomfit his imposing listeners. HARD-NOSED POLITICS are indispensable to democracy, and Jimmy Carter was nothing if not a shrewd and calculating professional politician. Yet there was more than a touch of the prophet to Carter as well, born of his profound Baptist faith. When Dylan sang, in Hattie Carroll, of the self-evident lie that the ladder of the law has no top and no bottom, it goaded Carter to do his Christian duty, bear witness, and help bring justice to the oppressed, always cognizant of how all Gods children are sinners, the persecuted and those who would protect them no less than their persecutors. While his deep faith was singular, Carter was also the first president whose politics were forged in the turbulence of the 1960s. When he ran successfully for the Georgia governorship in 1970, he by necessity courted segregationist supporters of George Wallace, and looked like he might be, at best, little more than a run-of-the-mill, conservative-leaning Southern Democrat, not above race-baiting to win. But those who were either repelled or comforted by Carters campaign overlooked his previous record and were in for a surprise. Carter had resisted, albeit cautiously, the White Citizens Council in his hometown of Plains, and as a state senator he had strongly backed voting rights legislation banning literacy tests. At his inauguration as governor, he proclaimed to his fellow Georgians that the time for racial discrimination is over. He went on to embrace leaders of the Civil Rights struggle, including Barbara Jordan, John Lewis, and Andrew Young. A successful activist governor, notably on civil rights and public education, but ineligible for reelection due to Georgias term limits, Carter began exploring the possibilities of running for president. Those ambitions took shape, though, at a confusing moment. Richard M. Nixons rise to the presidency in 1968 and his resounding reelection four years later marked a decisive turn to the right in American politics, the latter building on the voters repudiation of the anti-war Democratic Sen. George McGovern. But the Watergate scandals leading to Nixons resignation in 1974 suddenly changed everything, and augured, many thought, a thoroughgoing Democratic revival. The Democrats, however, remained badly divided from the battles over the Vietnam War and Civil Rights. Cold War hawks, old-style New Dealers, anti-war reformers (many of them attracted to Kennedy), and even former segregationists left over from the partys Jim Crow days all jostled for power inside the party and reached for the Democratic nomination in 1976. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter, a fresh face on the national scene, also emerged as a distinctive voice, a tribune of a progressive New South that had supposedly been transformed by the Civil Rights revolution. With a keen awareness of the travails of Southern politics, Carter understood how those dynamics might play out nationally. No Southern-born candidate had won the presidency since Woodrow Wilson in 1912 (and Wilson, after serving as president of Princeton University, had gone on to win election as governor of New Jersey). In the wake of the convulsive 1960s, however, followed by Nixons downfall, Carter saw room for a new kind Southerner, one who, having renounced the old segregationist order, could lead the nation away from racial backlash and toward a progressive healing and redemption. Nixon had won the White House by following what became known as the Southern strategy, commandeering the Southern white vote while appealing to racial resentments over law and order, education, and housing in the North. Once he had finally decided to run, Carter had a Southern strategy of his own for the Democratic nomination, based on winning the African American vote in the primaries, a constituency that had been made possible by the Voting Rights Act of 1965. I could not stand here today as a candidate for president of the United States, he told Black voters, had it not been for Martin Luther King Jr. The results bore him out. Black voters gave Carter pivotal victories over the arch-segregationist George Wallace in the Florida and North Carolina Democratic primaries. Those victories, the death knell of the old Jim Crow Southern Democratic Party, instantly turned Carter into a major contender for the nomination and provided him with the momentum he needed to win. Then, in the general election against the incumbent Gerald Ford, Black votes secured for Carter every Southern and border state except Virginia and thereby narrowly elected him president. ONCE IN THE WHITE HOUSE, Carter pressed to protect affirmative action, expand business and educational opportunities for Blacks, and secure and expand voting rights for all, including a proposal to universalize Election Day registration. Vowing to uphold the Civil Rights advances of the 1960s, he appointed Drew S. Days III, formerly a lawyer with the NAACPs Legal Defense Fund, to head the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department and to enforce those laws vigorously. Carter also appointed the first Black U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Andrew Young, and the first Black female member of the Cabinet, Patricia Roberts Harris. He named more African Americans, women, and Latinos to the federal judiciary than all previous presidential administrations combined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters civil rights policies were of a piece with his larger reform agenda. In the face of the recurring oil and energy crises that had begun in 1973, he launched a pioneering and comprehensive energy policy. He signed, among other environmental measures, the Superfund Act, designed to clean up sites contaminated with hazardous chemicals. Despite the nations economic difficulties, meanwhile, 10.3 million new American jobs were created during Carters four years in office, an auspicious record. And it was Carter who appointed Paul Volcker as head of the Federal Reserve, the man whose policies would break the back of stagflation and set the stage for the subsequent economic growth during Ronald Reagans administration, though Carter would not receive the credit. It is somewhat ironic, then, that the New South civil rights president will probably be remembered most for his efforts in foreign policy. Carters accomplishments abroad included, above all, masterminding the historic Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt in 1978 which opened the way for potential progress in resolving the Middle East conflict; signing the Panama Canal treaties in 1977 which completed the long overdue remanding of control of and responsibility of the canal to the Panamanian government; negotiating an arms control treaty with the Soviets; and formalizing diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China. All of these achievements, though, should be understood against the backdrop of Carters larger goal, which also grew from his prophetic self: to shift core American policy away from anti-communism alone and toward the vindication of human rights and the rule of international law, in the Cold War with the Soviet Union and China but also throughout the world. The concept was an old one, and had been codified by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, in the wake of the horrors of Nazi genocide and World War II, in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights the first global enunciation of the inherent rights and freedoms due every human being. For Carter, in the aftermath of Vietnam, the United States finally had to face up to how, in combating the ambitions of the Soviets and the Chinese, the nation had supported corrupt and repressive regimes that defied the very values it was fighting for. And so, dramatically, he would redirect the objectives of American power toward protecting and advancing human rights a goal to be pressed not simply on our Cold War adversaries but on our allies as well. Because we are free, we can never be indifferent to the fate of freedom elsewhere, Carter declared in his inaugural address. Our moral sense dictates a clear-cut preference for those societies which share with us an abiding respect for individual human rights. Soon thereafter, he replied to a letter from the great Soviet dissident, the physicist Andrei Sakharov, with a handwritten letter of his own expressing solidarity in the struggle for human rights and affirming that human rights is the central concern of my administration. (Sakharov presented the letter to Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, who responded by naming Sakharov an enemy of the state and sending him to internal exile at Gorki.) Soon, administration officials were speaking out against the brutal regime of Idi Amin in Uganda. In time, Carters human rights efforts also singled out abuses by U.S. allies including South Korea, Argentina, South Africa, and Rhodesia (present-day Zimbabwe.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters turn to human rights generated criticism from across the political spectrum. He was also sometimes caught between his idealistic pronouncements and the harsh realities of international affairs, provoking charges of hypocrisy, nowhere with graver consequences than in Iran. Carters glaring and finally tragic inconsistencies with regard to the Shah Reza Pahlavi a pro-Western modernizer but also a ruthless despot created the conditions that led to the Islamic Revolution that overthrew the Shah, which then led to the hostage crisis in Tehran that helped overwhelm Carters presidency. Yet more than anyone could have realized at the time, Carters emphasis on human rights had momentous positive results, especially vis-a-vis the Soviet Union. Carters predecessor, President Gerald Ford, had begun the shift by signing the famous Helsinki Accords in 1975 which, while recognizing Eastern bloc borders, also included assurances of civil and human rights. (For his pains, Ford earned condemnation from the right wing of his own party, notably the ascendant Ronald Reagan, as a witless and gutless appeaser.) The Helsinki human rights provisions led, in turn, to the formation of independent organizations, beginning with the Moscow Helsinki Group, to monitor abuses behind the Iron Curtain. With the Helsinki agreement in force, Carter made his breakthrough. Altering the central axioms of American foreign policy by elevating human rights placed pressure on the Soviets at their most vulnerable point. Beyond engaging Sakharov, Carter directly encouraged dissident political currents in Central and Eastern Europe, most notably the Charter 77 group in Czechoslovakia, and raised powerful objections when they were repressed. Under Carters banner of human rights, these movements would thrive in the 1980s, and eventually lead to the toppling of the Soviet empire. President Reagan, remembered correctly in many ways as Carters political polar opposite, receives credit for ending the Cold War, or at least for helping to end it in tandem with Mikhail Gorbachev. But it was Jimmy Carter who prepared the way with his insistent emphasis on an abiding respect for individual human rights. EVENTS CONSPIRED TO defeat Carter in 1980. His margin of victory four years earlier had been extremely slim, even against Nixons chosen successor, and the conservative political reaction seemingly suspended as a result of the Watergate scandal gained momentum again, now redoubled under Reagan, who replaced Nixons scowl with his own sunny image. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the continuing energy crisis, renewed resentments and divisions inside the Democratic Party, all created havoc for the Carter White House. His heartfelt effort to reason philosophically with the American people as in his famous speech addressing what he called the nations crisis of confidence (never, despite myth, using the word malaise) failed to reverse his political crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet though Carter was defeated, he was not disgraced, and his extraordinary post-presidency at nearly 44 years, the longest by far in American history affirmed how much he was, if anything, a moral leader and visionary ahead of his time. The eulogies to come will list some of the multitude of his notable contributions after he departed the White House, from his early, humble carpenters work supporting Habitat for Humanity to his exceptional efforts, often coordinated through the Carter Center in Atlanta, on everything from the virtual eradication of Guinea worm disease in Africa and Asia to pursuing conflict resolution and peace negotiations from Ethiopia to Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Korean peninsula. According to the center, since 1989, its representatives have observed 125 elections in 40 countries and three Native American nations, to help secure and strengthen democracy. I imagine that few and maybe none of these efforts was more satisfying to Carter than his personal monitoring, in 1990, of the elections that brought the peaceful accession of a democratic opposition in war-torn Nicaragua a democratic outcome that lasted until 2007 when the resurgent ex-revolutionary Daniel Ortega began to impose his own updated repressive rule. In large measure, history has not moved in the direction that Jimmy Carter would have wanted. At home, the conservative wave that cut short his presidency was staunched by Bill Clinton and Barack Obama but hardly ended; indeed it became radicalized, in a direct line from the nihilist Reaganism of House Speaker Newt Gingrich to the lawless, plutocratic right-wing populism of President Donald Trump. In 2013, a reactionary Supreme Court majority reached the point of gutting the Voting Rights Act on which Carter wagered so much of his own political future and the nations; and since then, the court has become a menace to long-settled rights, not least in overturning Roe v. Wade, as well as to the rule of law itself, notably with its dreadful presidential immunity decision in July 2024. The criminal justice system that Carter railed against in 1974 has become a behemoth of mass incarceration, chiefly at the state level, as racially skewed and unfair now as it was then, if not more so. Abroad, in the Middle East, as elsewhere, the scale and the intensity of cruelty, terror, and suffering indeed, of barbarism has grown. Yet across the globe, the cause of human rights that Carter proclaimed has also become the great cause of the oppressed and suffering, cutting through political ideologies, religious fanaticism, and dictatorships. If, today, governments and regimes are judged and tyrannies challenged according to the criteria of simple human rights, from Kyiv to Lhasa, then Jimmy Carter deserves a lions share of the credit. He did not rest easy on his achievements or turn bitter at his defeats. He was as goaded and restive at the age of 100 as he was 50 years ago, when he gave the king hell bastard of a speech citing Reinhold Niebuhr and Bob Dylan that so impressed Hunter Thompson. Hardly anyone present that day could have divined it, but Carters audacious remarks would prove but a starting point; and the Georgia politician with a touch of the prophet would help redeem, for all humanity, universal standards of freedom and decency. An inspiration for a brighter future when Carter pronounced them, those standards endure as a rallying point in darkening times. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A massive power outage blanketed most of Puerto Rico early Tuesday, leaving more than 1.2 million people without electricity. Here's what to know about the blackout and Luma Energy, which handles distribution and transmission of electricity on the island. What caused the blackout? Luma Energy said in a statement that it is investigating the cause of the outage, which closed many businesses and forced government agencies to limit their hours. But Luma noted that preliminary findings point to problems with an underground power line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How soon will power be restored in Puerto Rico? Luma said in a statement early Tuesday that it would likely take 24-28 hours to restore electricity across Puerto Rico. Later the company said service had resumed in some areas, including the Municipal Hospital of San Juan, but it didn't disclose how many people still lacked power. Puerto Rico's main airport, the Aeropuerto Internacional Luis Munoz Marin, said Tuesday on social media that it had activated backup power generators and was operating normally. What is Luma? Luma is a private Canadian-American company, based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, that operates and manages the electric power infrastructure in Puerto Rico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, which devastated the U.S. territory in September of 2017, the Puerto Rico government in 2021 hired Luma to handle the transmission and distribution of electricity on the island. Power was previously overseen by the state-owned Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), which went bankrupt in 2017 as the government faced billions of dollars in public debt payments. Luma CEO Juan Saca, a veteran telecom industry executive who was appointed to lead the company in 2023, said in a Sept. 26 hearing before a House panel that Luma has made significant investments to improve Puerto Rico's grid. That includes installing more than 17,850 hurricane-proof utility poles, adding thousands of automation devices aimed at softening the impact of power outages, and clearing vegetation around the island that can impede maintenance. "The impact of this has been real. Over the last year, more than 95% of customers had concurrent service more than 98% of the time when generation was available," he told lawmakers. But Saca also sought to deflect criticism that Puerto Rico's electricity system remains unreliable, pointing to previous "financial mismanagement." PREPA's bankruptcy seven years ago has also hindered progress in strengthening and modernizing the island's grid, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Have Puerto Ricans faced previous power outages? Puerto Rico's electric grid was troubled even before Maria, a consequence of inadequate maintenance and years of underinvestment. But the Category 4 storm crippled the system: Seven years after Maria, chronic power outages and high electricity costs are common in Puerto Rico. In June, to cite one recent example, a power outage plunged more than 340,000 Puerto Ricans into darkness after two power plants on the island shut down. "They're part of my everyday life," Enid Nunez, 49, who said she ate breakfast before work thanks to a small gas stove she bought for such events, told the Associated Press. Raul Pacheco, a 63-year-old diabetic struggling with an injured foot, said he planned to sleep on his balcony during the outage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antonio Torres Miranda, associate commissioner of Puerto Rico's energy agency, said in the House hearing this fall that the island's power distribution and transmission systems have made progress but remain subpar. "The recent outage events of June 2024, which affected over 300,000 customers, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of our infrastructure and the urgent need for comprehensive improvements," he said. "These incidents highlight the complex interplay of aging assets, deferred maintenance and the increasing impacts of climate change on our island's power grid." Some critics are blunter in their assessment of Luma's record in Puerto Rico. "Almost 25 years into the 21st century, it is ridiculous that Puerto Rico's power grid has failed its people again. Puerto Ricans deserve answers and accountability from Luma for this latest fiasco," Camille Rivera, founder of La Brega Y Fuerza, a grassroots advocacy group, said in a statement. "Luma has Puerto Rico in an energy stranglehold, and Puerto Ricans shouldn't have to put up with continued subpar service." The 40-plus year mission to keep President Carter safe Experts from U.S. join South Korea plane crash probe Former President Jimmy Carter to be honored over 6-day funeral schedule A simmering debate over work visas exploded over the last days of the year, exposing a rift over immigration among President-elect Trumps closest supporters. The H-1B visa a temporary, nonimmigrant work permit is at the center of the MAGA-on-MAGA strife, with one faction claiming its a necessary tool to attract professional talent to the United States and the other deriding the visa program as a burden on American workers. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy the incoming chiefs of Trumps nascent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) took the mantle of H-1B defenders, largely arguing that the visa program allows U.S. companies to hire workers they need and cant find in sufficient numbers within the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend, Musk, reportedly a former H-1B recipient, wrote in one of several posts on the social platform X defending the visas. Trumps former political strategist, Steve Bannon, stormed into the debate, calling the entire program a scam run by Silicon Valley oligarchs. Political activist Laura Loomer initially led the anti-H-1B side of the debate in a social media tirade against Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-born U.S. citizen whom Trump named his senior artificial intelligence adviser. Loomer falsely claimed Krishnan sought to remove all caps on H-1B visas he called for a removal of country caps on green cards, a collective term for immigrant visas though she later apologized for sharing Federal Election Commission records containing Krishnans personal information. Musks X platform lashed out against opponents in the debate by reportedly rescinding several blue check mark verifications, including Loomers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The doxing apology followed a social media post by Trump in support of the H-1B program, saying I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. Its a great program. While Trump businesses had previously been reported to use H-2B visas to hire nonagricultural, temporary workers, they would require H-1Bs to hire foreign workers for a range of specialty occupations that require college degrees. Heres what you need to know about the H-1B visa: Its the workhorse of professional employment-based visas H-1B visas are often sought by foreign students hoping to continue a U.S.-based career after receiving graduate or undergraduate degrees in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tech industry has also used H-1Bs as a recruitment tool for non-U.S. graduates in specialized occupations that industry leaders claim they cant fill with U.S. workers. By and large, the H-1B visa is the only significant channel for foreign graduates to enter the U.S. workforce. Other avenues, such as the O-1 visa, are restricted to high-profile applicants in specific industries and are given out in much smaller numbers. By statute, the federal government can only grant 65,000 H-1B visas each fiscal year, plus another 20,000 to applicants with graduate degrees thats known as the H-1B visa cap. Because there are generally more applicants than visas available, visas are allotted by a lottery conducted after preapplications are filed in April, six months before the start of the fiscal year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Certain nonprofit and academic organizations are exempt from that cap and can sponsor the visas year-round. Earlier this month, the Biden administration announced a revamp of the H-1B system that more clearly defined cap-exempt employers and occupations. The lottery Perhaps one of the most criticized elements of the H-1B program is the lottery system that selects beneficiaries subject to the cap. The first Trump administration reformed the lottery system in 2020 at the behest of business leaders, allowing companies to register their prospective H-1B employees with a reduced fee before the lottery rather than filing a full application subject to the luck of the draw. Still, undergraduate employees and their employers are often advised their chances of scoring an H-1B are about 50-50, even if they fully meet eligibility requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even with that change, the lottery system was vulnerable to different companies filing multiple applications for one worker, flooding the lottery and reducing other workers chances of getting their applications reviewed. As of fiscal 2025, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) changed from an employer-based system to a beneficiary-centric system, meaning each prospective worker will only count toward the lottery once, regardless of the number of applications filed on their behalf. Tweaks like those are core to the H-1B, a visa thats mutated over the years. Its been around for decades The H-1B was created by Congress in the Immigration Act of 1990, which largely laid out the blueprint for the visa system still in place today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since its creation, Congress has tweaked the H-1B at least six times, in addition to the times USCIS has modified the rules. But its a descendant of the H-1 visa from the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which is controversial because it upheld the national origin quota system established in 1924 that at the time excluded most immigrants from Asia. And though the H-1B is not subject to national quotas its numerical limitation is instead set by the statutory cap the transition from H-1B to permanent residence has created an H-1B trap thats primarily affected Indian nationals. Last month, Krishnan replied to Musk on X calling on DOGE to remove country caps for green cards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because immigrant visas, the green card visa categories, do have national origin caps, H-1B beneficiaries from countries that have reached their caps can get stuck on H-1B status indefinitely. In principle, H-1Bs are granted for three years and renewable for another three-year period, while beneficiaries are allowed to apply for green cards in the meantime. If those beneficiaries are approved for permanent residency but cannot get a green card issued because they are from a country thats hit its cap, they are then allowed to renew their H-1Bs on a yearly basis, and remain subject to the limitations of that visa, including a nearly airtight dependence on their employer. For certain categories of green cards, Indian nationals can expect a 130-plus year waiting period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats led H-1B supporters such as Ramaswamy to criticize the programs current structure as a form of indentured servitude. Still, most analysts believe the H-1Bs economic impact outweighs its limitations. Economic impact According to an analysis by the American Immigration Council (AIC), multiple studies have found H-1Bs lead to greater employment opportunities for native-born workers and more patent applications in the United States. The AIC research found that industries with heavy H-1B usage had lower unemployment rates even through the COVID-19 pandemic, and that H-1B holders generally drove wages up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But organizations that call for reduced immigration remain opposed to the visas, which they say drive wages down. The Federation for American Immigration Reform, a group close to incoming White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, proposes a series of reforms to the H-1B program, including removing beneficiaries right to apply for a green card, only granting H-1Bs to masters degree holders and implementing random audits of H-1B employers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, several cabinet ministers, military commanders and police officials face indictments and criminal investigations over the president's short-lived martial law declaration on Dec. 3. Yoon, who has been impeached, also faces a trial in the Constitutional Court that will decide whether to confirm his ouster from office or restore his presidential powers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A South Korean court granted an arrest warrant for Yoon on Tuesday in a separate criminal investigation, the first time ever for a sitting president in the country. Prosecutors, the police and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) have begun indicting some of the top military officials being probed on charges of insurrection and abuse of power, among others. Here is what we know about the criminal investigations so far: WHO IS FACING CHARGES? Yoon has not been indicted and has not been served with the arrest warrant yet. But his former defence minister Kim Yong-hyun has been arrested and indicted for alleged insurrection and abuse of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chiefs of the Capital Defence Command and the Defence Counterintelligence Command have also been indicted as of Tuesday. Others involved in the case include former interior minister Lee Sang-min and army chief Park An-su, who was named martial law commander, the army's Special Warfare Command as well as several other military generals and senior police officials, including the national and Seoul police chiefs, who are accused of playing a role in the martial law plan. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who was impeached by the main opposition Democratic Party on Friday, is also being questioned over his role in failing to block Yoon's martial law. Yoon, Kim, Lee, the national and Seoul police chiefs and more than 10 military commanders have been banned from leaving the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Seoul Western District Court granted the CIO's request for a warrant to arrest Yoon as well as a search warrant for his residence. It was unclear how or when the warrants against Yoon will be executed. Previously, Yoon has failed to respond to multiple summons by investigative authorities for questioning, and attempts to search the presidential office have been repeatedly blocked by the presidential security service. WHO LEADS THE INVESTIGATIONS? The Supreme Prosecutors' Office has created a special investigation bureau to examine the case for the first time since it probed a 2016 corruption scandal engulfing then-President Park Geun-hye, who was impeached and eventually ousted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The team consists of some 50 prosecutors and investigators, and about a dozen military prosecutors have also been drafted in, its head Park Se-hyun said. The national police agency has also confirmed the launch of its investigation, which Yonhap news agency said includes some 150 officers and investigators. The CIO separately opened an investigation after receiving complaints about national police chief Cho Ji-ho and other senior police officials. The defence ministry also has officials probing the matter. Such different agencies are working together under the name of "joint investigative unit", but Yoon's legal counsel has claimed that the probes by different agencies remain disjointed and overlapping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parliament has passed bills for the appointment of special counsels to spearhead a collective investigation with support from other agencies, but the bills have not yet been approved by an acting president. WHAT CHARGES ARE SOUGHT? The officials face potential charges of insurrection, abuse of authority and obstructing other people from exercising their rights. If convicted, the crime of leading an insurrection is punishable by death or life imprisonment, with or without prison labour. For those who engaged in activities key to the insurrection, punishment could range from death to life imprisonment down to imprisonment without prison labour for at least five years. People who merely joined in the plot or violence face imprisonment, with or without prison labour, for less than five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abuse of authority brings penalties of imprisonment for less than five years or fines of up to 10 million won ($7,000), while obstructing other people's rights is punishable by a prison term of less than five years or fines of up to 7 million won. South Korea last handed down a death sentence in 2016, but has not executed anyone since 1997. (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin and Joyce Lee; Editing by Alex Richardson, Ros Russell, Michael Perry and Raju Gopalakrishnan) President-elect Donald Trump has boasted on social media about taking over Greenland, making Canada the 51st state, and wresting control of the Panama Canal. His expansionist rhetoric has worried allies but elated enemies, with Russians viewing the statements as evidence that Trump isnt opposed to foreign wars of conquest, as is the Kremlin, despite what he has otherwise stated. To Russian President Vladimir Putins top propagandists, Trumps statements have revealed that he would blithely invade a country unable to fight back, according to Julia Davis, an observer of Russian media and columnist at The Daily Beast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect would expect a victory parade, like after Russias 2014 seizure of Crimea from Ukraine, which Trump called genius and savvy. Putin tried and failed to take the whole of Ukraine in 2022, with Kremlin insiders believing that Trump only disapproved of the war because it grew in length and cost. The top Kremlin supporters in Russia believe that Trump can be convinced to back Russias expansionist goals if Putin gets a chance to influence him. Theyre strongly opposed to the notion of negotiating with Trumps Ukraine envoy, retired Lieutenant-General Keith Kellogg. The ultimate scenario for them would be to make the Russian invasion of Ukraine appear legitimate, and the recognition of their territorial requirements. They view Trumps statements about Greenland, Canada, and Panama as validating Russias current and future acquisitions. Host Dmitry Kiselyov of Vesti Nedeli, or The Weekly News, used part of his Sunday broadcast to outline American expansionism under Trump. President-elect Donald Trump speaks during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center last week in Phoenix, Arizona. Russian propagandists believe his expansionist statements are helpful to Putin (Getty Images) Trump isnt joking. He is determined to expand American territorial possessions. Personally, I am convinced that he will succeed, said Kiselyov, according to a translation by Davis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump will grab strategically important parts of the world for America ... What is funny is to see whether anyone in the Old World will try to sanction the United States in response to its territorial expansion. This is when we will find out how principled the lovers of sanctions truly are, he added. Think about it. If Trump gets away with all of this, inspired by his success, he might look at the rest of the globe, focus on vulnerable spots, and keep going. Where will he stop? Doesnt it mean that others can do the same? Kiselyov asked. Pundits on The Evening With Vladimir Solovyov spent most of last Thursdays broadcast celebrating how the world will change under Trump. Trump politely announced that the U.S. will be expanding its borders, Soloyov pointed out, though many in the U.S. would take issue with politely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrey Lugovoy is a member of the State Duma and was involved in the lethal poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko. He noted on the program: It feels like we spent the last four years in Bidens madhouse and now were gradually transitioning to Trumps circus, though he added that its unclear if Trump is joking when he speaks about Canada, Greenland, and Panama. These are awesome statements! No, he is not joking ... of course he isnt joking! Solovyov responded. Do you think Im kidding when I say that Finland, Warsaw, the Baltics, Moldova, and Tallinn should come back home? Do you think Im joking? No! They should all rejoin the Russian Empire. Followed by Alaska, by the way. Give it back. The way he is rationalizing it is tremendous. We should follow his example and quietly take everything back, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lugovoy indicated how Trumps takeover threats should embolden Russias violent aggression in the Ukraine. My friends, Trumps insane statements show that there should not be any ceasefire. Why would we need a ceasefire when were confidently moving forward? Lugovoy asked. Solyov added: By taking Canada, Trump is basically saying, Russians, you can take the Baltics. He underscored: I believe that what Trump is doing benefits us greatly. Trump is totally destroying any illusions that anyone might have still had about the summit of democracies, about respecting the opinions of NATO allies. Professor Dmitry Evstafiev argued that with his approach of geographical enlargement Trump has buried the entire collective West. There is no collective West, and it will never be united again. Military expert Mikhail Khodaryonok said in the wake of Trumps statements about Canada, Greenland, and Panama, we can now consider special military operations as the norm for resolving arguments between countries. BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said in a statement on Monday. The FTA was announced by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and the Maldives' Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed, according to the statement, which also noted that the two ministers held a video conference on the same day. The vast majority of China's industrial exports to the Maldives, including ships, electrical equipment, furniture and agricultural products, will benefit from the FTA after its implementation. The vast majority of the Maldives' aquatic exports to China will also enjoy zero tariffs, according to the statement. The implementation of the FTA is expected to provide a solid institutional guarantee for the improvement of the trade and investment liberalization and facilitation levels between the two countries, significantly promote the development of bilateral economic and trade relations, and continuously improve the well-being of businesses and people in both countries. Tuesdays Top Stories Tuesdays Five Facts [1] Family remembers Albuquerque teen killed during dispute over washing machine A family continues grieving after a teenager was killed at an Albuquerque laundromat earlier this month. Police were called to the laundromat on San Mateo and Zuni where witnesses said 39-year-old Jamel Coriz argued with three teens over a washing machine, one of the teens was Michael Rowe. When the argument turned physical, police say Coriz left and returned with her 39-year-old boyfriend, Oscar Orozco. Police say Orozco chased Rowe outside where he was shot and killed. Both Coriz and Orozco are behind bars while they await trial. [2] Suspect in fatal Albuquerque hit and run to remain in custody until trial A man arrested for a deadly DWI after being on the run for two years will now await trial from behind bars. According to a criminal complaint, in 2022 Kalani Hodges was going 90 mph in a 45 mph zone near Coors and St. Joseph when he crashed, killing 71-year-old Nena Johnson. On Monday, a judge ordered to keep Hodges behind bars while awaiting trial. [3] Calmer, cooler, & still dry for New Years Other than some mid-to-high-level clouds moving mostly to the east-southeast later this afternoon, dry air will lead to no precipitation. Temperatures will be lower for all, but generally, afternoon temperatures will still mostly be above normal. Despite a cooler day tomorrow on New Years Day, temperatures will start to rebound once again later this week into the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [4] 2 employees in critical condition after chemical spill at Clovis cheese factory More than a dozen employees at a Clovis cheese factory are recovering following a chemical spill. The Curry County sheriffs office says yesterday morning an equipment malfunction at the Southwest Cheese Factory caused acid to mix with chlorine. The mixture produced a toxic gas, which employees inhaled. Out of the 20 employees affected, first responders took 11 to hospitals in Clovis and Portales. The Plains Regional Medical Center says two of those employees are in critical condition. [5] Deadline approaching to submit opinions on I-25 S-Curve plans The states department of transportation unveiled two plans they say would improve safety without impacting residential homes in a stretch of I-25 known as the S-curve. They call the S-curve between Avenida Cesar Chavez and Lomas one of the biggest trouble areas on the interstate, with a high number of speeders and crashes. The plans being considered would not affect nearby homes, but some neighbors say they want a no-build option. To participate in a public survey about the S-curve, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. More than a dozen human rights organizations are urging a Japanese retailer and its Myanmar subsidiary to drop a long-running defamation lawsuit against a prominent union leader that they say is meant to silence workers voices in a nation already facing a severe human rights crisis in the wake of a brutal and violent military crackdown. Since the military coup on Feb. 1, 2021, Myanmar has faced daily armed conflict, putting civilians lives at constant risk due to the fighting, wrote Human Rights Now, a Tokyo-based nonprofit, in an letter to Honeys Holdings and Honeys Garment Industry Limited that was co-signed by the All Burma Federation of Trade Unions, Behind the Labor, the Clean Clothes Campaign, No Sweat and others just before Christmas. Reports of arbitrary arrests, threats and killings of trade union representatives have been widespread. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its against this extremely dangerous environment, the organizations said, that Myo Myo Aye, leader of the Solidarity Trade Union of Myanmar, is being called to appear in court on a regular basis to defend the civil complaint, which was filed in 2017 after workers at Honeys Garment Industry Limited, or HGIL, protested what they characterized as unrealistic quotas that increased from 400 to 600 pieces a day in violation of an earlier collective bargaining agreement. HGIL, which also filed a separate criminal complaint, accused Myo Myo Aye of, among other things, intervening and instigating illegal actions by factory workers who lacked legal understanding, leading to the destabilization and decline in production and guiding workers through Facebook and other social network pages with flattery and motivational activities. It said that her statements appeared in both newspaper articles and messages shared in a workers group chat, disrupting factory production and damaging the companys reputation. Honeys, which did not respond to a request for comment, would end up firing nearly 450 workers in a move that it said was the result of their illegal actions but that the Worker Rights Consortium described in a 2021 report as a severe violation of workers fundamental labor rights and a clear act of retaliation. Both its civil and criminal lawsuits also persisted after the coup, with the latter resulting in Myo Myo Ayes arrest and six-month imprisonment in 2021 for breaching the countrys Telecommunications Act. While the case was subsequently dismissed after a Honeys representative failed to show up in court the same year, HGILs demand for civil damages of 1.8 billion kyats ($864,000) still stands. After the coup, the rule of law and the right to a fair trial in Myanmar have effectively collapsed, the letter said. In fact, in 1,648 cases involving opposition to military power between 1 April 2023, and 30 June 2024, no examples of acquittals or successful appeals were reported. In Myanmars current extraordinary judicial circumstances, there is no assurance that fair and impartial judicial decisions can be achieved. If she is ordered to pay damages and cannot comply, she could face up to six months of detention under Myanmars civil prison system, which is used to enforce payment obligations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organizations said that although HGILs claim for damages has no valid basis, there remains, in Myanmars current milieu, a serious risk the court could still rule in favor of the compensation claim, leading to extremely harmful consequences amid the countrys shrinking democratic space. Roy Ngerng, regional urgent appeal coordinator for East Asia at the Clean Clothes Campaign, said the case also has broader implications for Japan despite better labor and union laws that Japanese workers are familiar with. What Myo Myo Ayes case signals, he said, is that the Japanese government needs to implement stronger laws that require enterprises to respect human rights in their supply chains according to the United Nations guiding principlesno matter where they are in the world. When Japanese companies move their production to other countries, they should also ensure the same rights and conditions in these countries, he said. Allowing Japanese companies to blatantly violate labor rights in other countries can also hurt labor rights in Japan if Japanese companies do not think they will be penalized. It should therefore be unacceptable to the Japanese public when Japanese companies exploit or oppress workers overseas. Myo Myo Aye herself agreed. She said that when engaging in business, whether in Japan or Korea or China or Myanmar, international labor standards must be adhered to by both employers and those they employ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this instance, the act of targeting and dismissing workers who attempted to establish a trade union, as well as taking legal action against the leader, is a very shameful act, she said. I would like to encourage the Japanese employer to engage in a conversation with us and to halt the actions against us and to have the most beneficial discussion for the workers and for me. In their letter, the human rights groups asked Honeys and HGIL to immediately withdraw the civil lawsuit, provide appropriate remedies for the violations against Myo Myo Aye and the workers, and implement heightened human rights due diligence to address deteriorating labor conditions in Myanmar. As long as this civil lawsuit continues, Daw Myo Myo Aye faces ongoing risks of violence and arrest, they said, using an honorific to refer to the leader. This not only endangers her safety but also further undermines civil liberties and trade union movements, which are already difficult to exercise. It also has a significant adverse impact on workers who are already facing severe hardships following the coup. No civilised country taxes education. No sensible country shuts its best schools. Over a period of 60 years Labour has done both. As of January 1, education is being taxed for the first time as though it were a commercial enterprise, with the imposition of VAT on private school fees. This is mendaciously depicted by Labour as closing a tax loophole or ending an exemption. It is not the schools that are being taxed as institutions but the services they provide since that is what VAT does. Exactly 60 years ago, in January 1965, Labour secured a Commons motion that led to the end of most grammar schools. The damage inflicted by socialists on education over six decades could hardly have been greater and they plan more still with the imposition of a new curriculum whose likely contents make the blood freeze. Moreover, this is to be forced on academies and free schools which have hitherto been allowed to remain at arms length from the states diktat. The curriculum is being drawn up by a committee chaired by a feminist professor who once criticised the Tony Blair government for its obsession with academic achievement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is tasked with making the curriculum more diverse, which in Orwellian doublespeak really means more conformist. This is the paradox at the heart of Labours 60-year war on elitism in education. The so-called progressive Left talks incessantly of diversity yet wants all children to be educated in similar schools and taught to think the same way their way. What it means by diversity is essentially a repudiation of the past, or at least Britains role in it through the decolonisation of its monocultural history. The Left does not see education as a route to excellence but as a means of achieving homogeneity where academic ability is treated with suspicion, even if sporting and artistic prowess is acknowledged as special. If we look back to the Commons debate in 1965 we can see the ideological case being developed. The education secretary was Michael Stewart, whose primary objection was to what he called separatism, which meant that some children who were clever enough to pass an exam at age 11 were removed to a different school from their peers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latter languished in poor secondary schools denied the opportunities of their counterparts. The answer was comprehensive education in which everyone was in the same boat if not necessarily in the same class. The real answer, of course, was to improve the secondary modern schools, not shut the grammars, but that did not fit in with the argument against separatism. Stewart was moved in a reshuffle to the Foreign Office and replaced by the politician most associated with the demise of the grammars, Anthony Crosland. He was evangelical in his determination to get rid of them (having attended an independent school himself, of course) and told his wife Susan If its the last thing I do Im going to destroy every fing grammar school in England. And Wales and Northern Ireland. Why such hostility? The reason why Crosland disliked them so much was precisely because they were good schools and therefore gave those attending them a better start than children that didnt (apart from those at private schools). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A great deal has been written about social mobility in recent years and how it has stalled. Yet everyone knows that a good school offers the surest route out of difficult circumstances, and in the state sector the best performers are the 163 surviving grammars in England. Perhaps that is hardly surprising since they select the brightest children. But that is because they now comprise just five per cent of the total number of schools whereas before comprehensivisation the proportion was 25 per cent. Most large towns had two grammars. Will they ever come back in numbers? Sadly, most Tory politicians who went to independent schools could not care less because for them getting into a good school was never a problem. David Cameron and Boris Johnson (both Etonians), and Rishi Sunak (Winchester) never considered the matter. The only recent PM who did was Theresa May, who attended a grammar school until it was also turned into a comprehensive. She proposed ending the ban on new grammars in the partys 2017 manifesto, but lost her majority so never got the chance. Will Kemi Badenoch revive the policy? It so happens that there is a grammar school boy from a not especially well-off background (his father was a toolmaker, dont you know) in No 10 now. His school, Reigate Grammar, was shut even while he was there and became independent rather than comprehensive. You might have thought this would have made Sir Keir Starmer think twice before wrecking another part of the education system, but not a bit of it. He regards Crosland and Wilson as political heroes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now the war is finally being taken to the private schools with the breaking of a taboo observed almost everywhere in the world: do not tax education. There are many arguments against the VAT policy among them, that it will force the closure of smaller schools and decant thousands of pupils into the state sector. The Government denies this and says even if it happens the schools can cope. Bridget Phillipson, the heir to Crosland, said very few families would leave the schools as a result, then claimed fatuously that she had the support of middle-class parents as they had already been priced out of private education. By and large, their main selling point is that they are good schools and bring added value to the economy and to the lives of their children. Indeed, far from penalising them, many democratic countries help fund private schools because they see education as a public good and not an instrument for social engineering. We should have done the same decades ago by introducing vouchers that parents could have spent on the schools of their choice. Maybe a new look Tory party can revive that idea, too. Since parents using the independent sector pay taxes, they are entitled to some government funding towards the education of their children irrespective of what kind of school they pick. They do not receive a tax break as ministers insist. They pay twice, and now they pay more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In any case, we need to go back to the beginning. No country should tax education or close its best schools, not unless it has a death wish. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Tony Blairs Labour government feared a bloody fight with the Daily Mail if its owner successfully bid for the Telegraph in 2004, Cabinet papers reveal. Sarah Hunter, Blairs senior policy adviser on Culture, Media and Sport, sent the warning to the Downing Street chief of staff, Jonathan Powell, in April that year. In the letter, newly released to the National Archives, Ms Hunter said she feared the consequences if the bid for the Telegraph, made by the Mails parent company DMGT, was accepted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Hunter said that the Government needed to dissuade Hollinger International, the then owners of the Telegraph, and Lazards, the investment bank conducting the auction, from favouring the Mail as soon as possible. Ms Hunter wrote that the Mail was already proposing constitutional remedies to address the anticipated public interest concerns that would arise if it won. Sarah Hunter, senior aide to Tony Blair - Eddie Mulholand for The Telegraph She said: If the DMGT bid gets accepted and we have to go through a regulatory referral process it will become a bloody fight between the Government and DMGT through the autumn and winter. Ms Hunter said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) had to give as strong a steer as possible that the Government is minded to block a DMGT sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that while the best way to communicate with the sellers was through the confidential guidance process, they would also need to action some more informal communications mechanisms to underline our intent. Barclay brothers Sir David, left, and Sir Frederick, who acquired The Telegraph in 2004 - Michael Stephens/PA Ms Hunter also suggested that the prime minister should have a conversation with PH, believed to be Patricia Hewitt, the then secretary of state for the DTI. She said that Ms Hewitt was nervous that DMGT would fight a personal campaign against her if she was to give advice this strong. Ms Hunter said that the prime minister would have to shore her up. David Efune, of the New York Sun - Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan Ultimately, the Telegraph was sold to the Barclay brothers, Sir David and Sir Frederick, in July 2004 for 665m after a protracted auction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Daily Mail stayed in the race until the final week of the auction bidding between 600m and 625m. The Telegraph is currently up for auction again. Earlier this month, however, a takeover fronted by Dovid Efune, the British-born owner of the New York Sun, failed to meet a deadline to raise financing. Mr Efune, 39, insisted however that he was still in talks to raise more than 500m from undisclosed investors. A previous bid by the UAE to take control of the Telegraph was blocked by new laws against state ownership of newspapers. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The roughly seven-mile stretch of Coast Highway in Laguna Beach is known worldwide for its postcard-perfect views and gateway to the city's eclectic art and retail scene. But it is also ground zero for drunk drivers. Officials say Laguna Beach has had the highest number of DUI arrests per capita of any city of its size in California for at least two decades, in part because it is a magnet for many tourists and visitors who drive in for the day. While the city's population is only about 22,000, Laguna Beach sees about 6.5 million visitors annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The situation has prompted Laguna Beach to embark on a new enforcement program that, if successful, could be a model for other communities. When a suspected DUI driver is arrested in the city, the police department sends a letter to the business where the person had their last drink. The hope is that the information will help owners and employees recognize possible patterns, such as when patrons are leaving too drunk or act as a catalyst to retrain staff on signs of intoxication. While the letter doesn't include the driver's name, it has their blood alcohol content and the date, time and location of their arrest. Officials say it supplements other anti-DUI efforts, including checkpoints and efforts to help educate patrons to the dangers of getting behind the wheel drunk. Still, the police department was making a couple of hundred DUI arrests a year. "The data shows us this is a problem that we need to address and I think this is a really very innovative, collaborative and data-driven way of doing that," said Mayor Alex Rounaghi. "Any time that we can save a life and prevent future deaths it's important for us to do that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities hope the notification system will raise awareness among merchants and help them be more aware of when customers have had one too many. Read more: Trash, traffic, tempers, tourists: Laguna Beach's summer of discontent "It's not intended to be punitive because the business owners don't know what they don't know," Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert said. "So it's an opportunity for them to look at whether there's a pattern with certain bartenders overserving or do some additional education with not only their bartenders, but their security staff." The proliferation of drunk drivers has been a persistent problem in beach communities across the state where tourists and residents frequently visit to imbibe at a swanky restaurant or a local bar just steps from the sand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huntington Beach got so fed up with drunk driving issues that it considered in 2010 publicly shaming arrestees by posting their names on Facebook. In 2020, a woman was sentenced to 51 years to life in state prison for a DUI crash that killed three Las Vegas teenagers and seriously injured a fourth in Huntington Beach two years earlier. The teens were in Huntington Beach for spring break early on March 29, 2018, when the Toyota Corolla they were riding in was struck from behind by a Hyundai Sonata while stopped at a red light at Pacific Coast Highway and Magnolia Street. The Toyota was pushed into a pole and caught fire. Officials testified that the Hyundai driver, Bani Duarte, had a blood alcohol content of 0.28%, more than three times the legal limit. The Laguna Beach Police Department, as seen on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023. (Andrew Turner) In Laguna Beach, residents for years have complained about the noise and quality of life issues that stem from late-night visitors to the city's watering holes. The city's geography nestled between two other beach cities with robust nightlife and its concentration of more than 130 establishments make it a prime location for DUI arrests, police say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes the motorists have been drinking in town. Other times, they're caught taking the picturesque drive along Coast Highway that connects Laguna Beach to other cities. Between January and Dec. 26, the police department has sent 75 letters to restaurants, bars and hotels both inside the city and elsewhere in Orange County, Calvert said. One letter, obtained by The Times that was sent to an establishment in Dana Point, explained the Alcoholic Beverages Control Department rules that note businesses "must monitor patrons alcohol consumption and avoid overserving individuals who show signs of intoxication." "We encourage your establishment to review and reinforce policies and practices regarding alcohol service to prevent similar incidents in the future and uphold public safety," the letter reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: DUI suspect shot, killed by Southern California police on Thanksgiving Day Ivan Spiers, who owns several restaurants in Laguna Beach including Mozambique and Skyloft, said the letters don't fix the problem of drunk drivers. "It's bureaucracy and a waste of money and time," he said. Bartenders are trained to assess patrons, but when the bar is crowded, often one person is buying drinks for a whole group. "It's very hard to control," he said. But city officials and residents say something new needed to be done to help lessen DUIs. Crime statistics provided by the police department show that most of the arrests in Laguna Beach stem from drugs or alcohol use. In 2022, the top three causes for arrests in the city were for DUI, drugs and disorderly conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, Laguna Beach police made 269 DUI arrests up from 247 a year earlier, according to the most recent data available from the California Office of Traffic Safety. In 2020, the city had 42 crashes that were alcohol related. In 2021 and 2022, there were 50 and 55 crashes, respectively, that were alcohol related, according to city data. It's not just Laguna Beach that's dealing with drunk driving. In 2019, Orange County made more than 11,100 DUI arrests, according to the most recent data available from the Department of Motor Vehicles. The number of drunk driving fatalities, which had dropped to 966 in California in 2019, surged statewide during the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2020, the number of fatal DUI crashes in California was 1,180. A year later, it jumped to 1,370. Meanwhile, driving under the influence arrests in the state declined from 124,141 in 2019 to just under 96,000 in 2020, according to a 2023 report by the California Office of Traffic Safety. Read more: DUI suspect in crash that killed two girls in Rialto pleads not guilty Heidi Miller, who owns several businesses in Laguna Beach including a clothing store and newsstand, applauded the effort to get a handle on instances of drunk driving in the city. Miller has seen the aftermath of several crashes downtown, including one last year in which a motorist drove across Pacific Coast Highway and crashed into the boardwalk at Main Beach. The person was later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, according to a Daily Pilot report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People joke that we're the DUI arrest capital of California, but for me, it's not such a bad thing. It means that our police department is on top of things," she said. "We're watching out for not only our residents but the people that are passing through our town." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Dec. 30LAKE ANDES, S.D. An 18-year-old Lake Andes man has pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place at a local motel in May 2024. Mackenzie Antelope entered his plea on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, in Charles Mix Circuit Court and now faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 28, 2025. The crime occurred on May 21 at the Landing Strip Motel, where Antelope was drinking with 22-year-old Quinlan Ream and 33-year-old Dylan Oullette. According to court documents, a verbal altercation between Antelope and Oullette escalated when Antelope brandished a knife, warning Oullette he would "poke" him if he approached. During the confrontation, Antelope stabbed Oullette multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Oullette was being attacked, Ream intervened by jumping onto Antelope's back. In response, Antelope redirected his assault toward Ream, fatally stabbing him. Oullette managed to escape to a nearby gas station, where he called for help. Witnesses reported seeing a red car parked outside the motel room, which led authorities to Antelope's grandmother's residence. Although Antelope initially denied involvement in the incident, investigators matched the pattern on his sandals to footprints found at the crime scene. The investigation involved collaboration among multiple agencies, including the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Yankton Sioux Tribal Police, and the Charles Mix County Sheriff's Office. Antelope is being held at the Charles Mix County Jail on a $500,000 bond. LAKE CHARLES, La. (KLFY) A Lake Charles man has been arrested in connection with an alleged molestation of a child, authorities said. Marvin Pena, 46, of Lake Charles, is charged with sexual battery of a victim under the age of 13. The Calcasieu Parish Sheriffs Office received a report Dec. 21 of a possible sexual battery earlier in the day at a private event in Westlake. During the investigation, detectives were told a guest at the event, who was unknown to the victim, inappropriately touched the girl. Investigators identified the suspect as Pena, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives met with Pena on Friday. After speaking with him, he was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center on a $150,000 bond. A federal detainer was placed on Pena by U.S. Border Patrol after it was discovered he was in the United States illegally, authorities said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. LANETT, Ala. (WRBL) In the early hours of Saturday December 28, 2024, Lanett Police responded to reports of gunshots in the 2400 block of 16th Avenue Southwest. Upon arrival, officers discovered a vehicle with a shattered drivers side rear window, initiating an investigation into a chaotic sequence of events. Investigators say the suspects had broken into two vehicles before entering a residence through a window. Inside the home, the homeowner confronted one of the suspects, resulting in a struggle and the discharge of a firearm. The suspects ran away, leaving behind a firearm and a pink Nike backpack. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The incident is now being investigated as a burglary in the first degree and attempted murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators identified the abandoned firearm as one previously reported stolen during a series of vehicle break-ins in the Cahaba Springs community. Video evidence from the Cahaba Springs incident shows suspects involved in the thefts, including one individual carrying a pink Nike backpack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evidence recovered at the scene, including the firearm and other materials, has been sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for DNA analysis. Still photos of two suspects connected to the Cahaba Springs incident have been released. Authorities warn these individuals are considered armed and dangerous. The Lanett Police Department urges anyone with information regarding the suspects identities or whereabouts to contact Investigator Reagan or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers. Emergency: 911 Non-Emergency: (334) 576-0915 Criminal Investigations Division: (334) 644-5295 Crime Stoppers: (334) 215-STOP Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. A Beverly Hills doctor accused of drugging and sexually assaulting a woman at his West Los Angeles home had met her through a job recruitment website, and police suspect he may have used the same ruse to prey on other women. Babak Hajhosseini, 42, a visiting specialist at Wound and Burn Centers of America in Los Angeles and Catalina Island Health, was arrested the day after Thanksgiving on suspicion of sexual assault of an unconscious person, the Los Angeles Police Department said in a statement posted on X. The LAPD is searching for potential victims of Dr. Hajhosseini, who allegedly used job recruiting sites to target women. Though he is charged with assaulting a single victim, investigators believe there are other victims who have yet to come forward, the LAPD said. Detectives are releasing Hajhosseinis photo to identify and speak with any victims of unreported sexual assaults by Hajhosseini. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hajhosseinis lawyer, Caleb Mason at Werksman, Jackson & Quinn LLP in Los Angeles, issued a statement denying the charges and blasted the LAPD, claiming police made additional salacious accusations against the doctor. He added that there is substantial evidence proving that these allegations are false. Dr. Hajhosseini will try his case in court, not in the media, Mason said. Dr. Hajhosseini voluntarily took a polygraph exam, which he passed. Hajhosseini was arrested on Nov. 26 and released days later after posting a $2 million bond. On Friday, Hajhosseini was formally charged with multiple counts of drug-induced rape and rape of an unconscious person. He pleaded not guilty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hajhosseini used job recruiting websites and offered high hourly wages to locate and entice potential victims, the LAPD said. He would then invite the potential victims to work overtime after hours at his residence. Once there, the LAPD said, Hajhosseini pressured at least one victim into consuming an alcoholic beverage. After consuming the beverage, the victim fell unconscious before Hajhosseini sexually assaulted and recorded her, the LAPD said.Hajhosseinis page on the LinkedIn website lists him as the founder, president and CEO of the Wound and Burn Centers of America. It also says he did a clinical fellowship in wound healing at the Stanford University School of Medicine from July 2017 to June 2020. According to Hajhosseinis company website, the companys motto is, Healing Humankind One Wound at a Time. A quick review of available records show no prior arrests of Hajhosseini. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com TAIPEI, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The average annual temperature in Taiwan reached a record high of 24.97 degrees Celsius in 2024, making it the warmest year on record, the local meteorological department said Tuesday. This figure is 1.66 degrees above the century-long average. All months except December recorded above-normal temperatures, the meteorological department told a press conference. Cumulative rainfall for the year was near normal levels, although it varied widely across the island, according to the meteorological department. The department forecast a high probability that average temperatures in Taiwan from January to March 2025 will be close to normal, with rainfall expected to be normal to below average. Las Vegas court employee accused in fatal DUI crash LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A Clark County court employee is accused of driving impaired, causing a deadly crash, and then hiding from deputies, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned. Michael Doan, 46, faces several charges connected to the Christmas Eve crash on Highway 91 in Littlefield, Arizona. The community is located about 90 miles northeast of Las Vegas near Interstate 15. Doan is an assistant court administrator with the Clark County District Court, a spokesperson confirmed Monday. A LinkedIn account lists his title as IT project manager. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said Doan was driving a Ford truck northbound on the highway when they believe he crossed the center line and hit a Toyota that was headed southbound. After the crash, deputies found Doan hiding a short distance away, they said. Doan showed signs of impairment and was taken to the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility where he faces charges of 2nd-degree murder and aggravated assault, deputies said. The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the crash scene and a passenger was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The deceased drivers identity was not immediately available Monday. A spokesperson said the court placed Doan on leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The legacy of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, has left a big impact in Las Vegas. His death on Sunday has many reflecting on their time with him. On Monday from his office, Nevada-born Clark County Commission Chair Tick Segerblom, who worked on the campaign trail and in the White House for former President Jimmy Carter, shared his time spent with the president. This is me, thats the President obviously and thats my dog Zippy. This was our campaign headquarters in Atlanta during the summer of 76, Segerblom said. He is who you think is. There was no games played, Segerblom said. (Commission Chair Tick Segerblom) Years before taking office at one of the highest levels of government in the Las Vegas valley, Segerblom joined the Carter campaign for President fresh out of law school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I signed up with his campaign for $200 a month and was sent to Pennsylvania. Lo and behold, the guy kept winning and winning, Segerblom said. After Jimmy Carters presidential victory in November 1976, Tick Segerblom joined the White House Personnel Office. He had the opportunity to fly aboard Air Force One with President Carter. Later, Segerblom transitioned to working on Carters re-election campaign. He is who you think he is. There was no games played. It was a revolution really to have somebody that sincere and committed to go to that high level, it would probably never happen again. It was an honor to work for him, Segerblom explained. After Carter lost, Segerblom moved back home to Las Vegas and started his law firm, which still operates today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just like one of those things where life takes you to strange places, Segerblom said. Segerblom said he is overwhelmed by the death of the former President and hopes his legacy will inspire future generations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A 19-year-old was arrested for allegedly attempting to rob two gas stations and two convenience stores over a nine-day crime spree across the Las Vegas valley. According to the arrest report, On Dec. 11, at around 4 p.m., Oscar Saldivar entered a gas station near Blue Diamond Road on Dec. 11, around 4 p.m. He was dressed in all-black clothing and wearing a balaclava face mask he approached the register, pointed a black handgun at the clerk, and demanded money. The register contained $20, which the clerk handed over to Saldivar. The clerk was then told to open another register, which had no money. Saldivar left the store, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that day, around 5:30 p.m., Saldivar and another suspect, not identified in the documents, showed up at a convenience store near Flamingo Road where Saldivar allegedly pointed a gun at a clerk while the other suspect walked around the counter, took the money from the clerk, and placed it into a plastic bag. Both suspects then left the store. Two days later on Dec. 13, around 5 p.m., Saldivar and the same accomplice went to a gas station near West Lake Mead and Decatur boulevards. When an employee stepped outside for a smoke break, she encountered Saldivar, who pointed a gun at her and demanded the money from the register, according to documents. As the employee walked toward the register, a manager pulled her into the office and locked the door, causing Saldivar and his accomplice to leave without any money. Documents said Saldivar entered another convenience store near Pecos Road and Cheyenne Avenue on Dec. 19, around 5 p.m., placed a bag of chips on the counter, pulled out a gun, and demanded money. After taking the money, Saldivar placed it in a bag and headed north on Las Vegas Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly afterward, an officer saw Saldivar near East Cheyenne Avenue. The report stated that when he was approached, he disobeyed police commands and attempted to run away before being taken into custody. While searching his backpack, officers reported they found a bag full of cash and a small handgun, which was reported as stolen. Saldivar was read his Miranda Rights but refused to speak to the officers. Saldivar is in custody at the Clark County Detention Center, where he is facing a dozen charges, including four counts of robbery with a deadly weapon, four counts of burglary with a deadly weapon, and three counts of conspiracy to commit robbery, one count of kidnapping, according to court records. He is due to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Jan. 7, 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. The last day of the year will be mostly dry across Central Florida with temperatures that could climb into the low 80s, but a cold mass of air will begin to drop temperatures for the new year and into this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne. The remnants of a dissipating front law over the region with excess moisture meaning cloudy skies on Tuesday morning clearing out by evening, the NWS stated. Rain chances are only at 20% for areas north of Orlando and Cape Canaveral and only 10% farther south. A front coming from the northwest, though, will bring cold, dry air into the area starting overnight, bringing what had been higher than normal temperatures back down with expected lows into New Years Day in the 50s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The highs for Wednesday will reach the mid 60s to mid 70s through Friday, and approach colder lows into the weekend. Cold air will push down across east central Florida mid to late week, brining colder temperatures to the local area to start the new year off, the NWS stated. The coldest areas will be along and north of Interstate 4. Wind chill values as low as upper 30s to low 40s Saturday morning for most of east central Florida. NEW YORK As he faces reelection next year with a record of scandal atop the NYPD, New York City Mayor Eric Adams is leaning into his 2021 campaign pledge to reduce crime and effectively manage the nations largest police department. On Tuesday, Adams spoke at his first public press briefing since the resignation of former NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, who is accused of sexually assaulting a subordinate in exchange for granting her a copious helping of overtime. While Maddrey has denied wrongdoing, his abrupt exit has capped three years of chaotic rule at the nations largest police department a period of tumult sparked by some of Adams closest friends and confidantes who have since resigned or been pushed out amid a cloud of misconduct. On Tuesday, Adams brushed off any suggestion he mismanaged the police department, pointing to major crime numbers that have fallen on his watch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The campaign I talked about was bringing down crime, making our city safer, Adams said. We did that. That box is checked. While the mayor has called the allegations against Maddrey troubling, he did not express any regret for tapping him as the top uniformed police officer at the department, even as a past disciplinary case against Maddrey was well known before his promotion. His policing practices and what he has done as a police officer the knowns I have been extremely, extremely proud of those knowns you can't predict unknowns, Adams said. Maddrey is just the latest Adams ally who wielded power over the NYPD to head for the exit. Adams second police commissioner, Edward Caban, his former deputy mayor for public safety, Philip Banks III, and his former senior adviser for public safety, Timothy Pearson, were all forced out of the administration amid various law enforcement probes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During an interview with a former NYPD colleague a day earlier, Adams suggested accusations against Maddrey and the turnover at the top of the police department were similar to other periods of unrest at the NYPD. Theres always been scandals, Adams said during a sit-down interview with a former NYPD deputy inspector, referencing the murder of Eric Garner and a 1990s-era corruption scandal known as the Dirty 30. What the fuck are we talking about? The mayors first commissioner, Keechant Sewell, resigned after her authority over the department was consistently undermined by other prominent members of the administration. And an interim police commissioner brought on this fall to calm concerns at the department was on the job for just two months before Adams named Jessica Tisch as his new commissioner. In Mondays interview, Adams seemed to acknowledge that the turmoil at the most important department in his administration could not continue. He said he expects that an overtime review and personnel house cleaning Tisch is undertaking to right the ship. I said to my team over there, listen, I cannot run the city and worry about these little conflicts that [were] happening, Adams said. I need some real discipline over there, and we want to get refocused and move the department to the next level. WELCH, Okla. Choking back emotion, Jay Bible told how his only daughter was truly a present to the family during the 25th Memorial Ceremony for Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman. 25 years later: Families continue search for missing Oklahoma teens About 100 people gathered at the Welch Civic Center to remember the 16-year-old best friends whose young lives were cut short on a cold December night in 1999, when they were brutally kidnapped, tortured, drugged, raped, and eventually killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jay told a story about how Lauria crawled inside a box to make herself look like a present. She was the best present, Jay said, holding back tears. After gaining his composure, Jay told the crowd, We will still chase down every lead. They are fewer and farther between but maybe tonights (service) will bring out more leads. Jay spoke about the early years looking for the girls and how most of Ashleys family is dead, including her grandparents. Ashey became a daughter to us, Jay Bible said. Young mothers held their children close to them, and many were seen dabbing their eyes with tissues as Lorene Bible spoke about how Lauria and Ashleys disappearance changed things for most families in northeast Oklahoma. Gone were overnight sleepovers with friends, and cell phones werent a luxury for teens, but part of a safety plan allowing parents to know their whereabouts at all times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lorene Bible spoke about reliving Dec. 30, 1999, and the days afterward. What if I had made her (Lauria) stay home that night, Lorene Bible said. Lorene went through several what if scenarios, knowing the questions were fruitless. Lorene remains angry over the events of Dec. 30, 1999, and the delay in searching for Lauria and Ashley because of the rumors that Danny Freeman was somehow involved in the kidnapping. After the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation agents released the crime scene, the Bible family began searching and found Dannys charred remains amongst the ashes. Another what if question hung in the air. Could the girls have been saved if authorities started searching for girls earlier? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its my mission to bring Lauria and Ashley home, Lorene Bible said. Recently retired, Lorene said she planned on spending 2025 trying to get the Lauria and Ashley Bill passed. There are 48 senators that havent met me yet, Lorene said, prompting laughter from the crowd. Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami, refiled the Lauria and Ashley bill for the 2025 legislative session, which convenes on Feb. 3. The bill that adds accessory to murder in the first or second degree to the list of crimes that would require an offender to serve 85% of their prison sentence before being eligible for parole consideration. Those convicted would also be ineligible to earn credits that would reduce their sentence below 85% of what the court imposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to prevent another family from going through what we did, Lorene said, referencing the release of felon Ronnie Busick. Busick, the only living suspect, pleaded guilty to accessory to murder and received a 10-year prison sentence in 2020, with five years of probation and only one year of supervision. Because of good behavior and time credited while in the Craig County Jail, Busick was released after just three years in prison. It is believed he is living in a Tulsa nursing home. I look forward to the day when I get a call saying the girls were found, Lorene Bible said. Craig County investigator Gary Stansill and OSBI Cold Case Detective Tammy Ferrari spoke about how the girlss case has stayed with them daily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are still working on this case daily, Ferrari said. The case weighs heavy on our hearts. We feel like God gave us a task, Stansill said. God will direct our steps and has directed our steps, Stansill said. Stansill said it will take a miracle to find the girls remains. I dont say that negatively, Stansill said. I say that positively. The service ended with the lighting of candles. A $50,000 reward remains open in the case. Individuals with information about where the girls bodies are buried are encouraged to call the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation hotline at (800) 522-8017. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. President-elect Donald Trump is asking the Supreme Court to exceed its authority with his unprecedented request in the case over the federal TikTok ban, legal experts say. Trump filed a brief Friday asking the high court to suspend the laws critical Jan. 19 deadline until after he takes office. The law if the justices allow it to take effect will effectively ban TikTok in the United States if the social media platform fails to cut ties with its Beijing-based owner by that date. Experts said Trump had no grounds to ask to pause the TikTok law before he takes office as president, and they faulted him for requesting a "stay" of the law without taking a stance on whether the law is unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that the law goes into effect the day before Trump is inaugurated is just too bad for Trump, but a future president cannot ask a court to delay a law, said Alan Rozenshtein, a former official at the Department of Justice who now teaches at the University of Minnesota Law School. He said the Supreme Court does not have the authority to pause a law that was written by Congress and enacted without considering its constitutionality. The high court, of course, is weighing a constitutional challenge from TikTok, which says the law violates the First Amendment. But legal experts criticized Trumps unconventional attempt to intervene in the dispute before taking office. Trump filed his amicus brief to the Supreme Court ahead of its expedited hearing on the TikTok law. The justices will hold oral arguments on Jan. 10. John Sauer, Trumps nominee for solicitor general, authored the brief. He asked the justices to indefinitely delay the law until the incoming president can work to save TikTok while also addressing security concerns raised by the apps ownership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump alone possesses the consummate dealmaking expertise, the electoral mandate, and the political will to negotiate a resolution to save the platform while addressing the national security concerns expressed by the government, Sauer wrote. Although Rozenshtein called the brief silly, he said he expects the justices will seriously consider any legal request from an incoming president. But I hope they dont act on it, he said. It would be pretty lawless of them to. Sauer did not respond to a request for comment. The brief is Trumps latest move to shield TikTok, which he promised to save during his campaign. Its a major shift from when Trump unsuccessfully tried to ban the app in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TikTok and its owner ByteDance brought their case to the Supreme Court after a lower court upheld the constitutionality of a law Congress passed in April to force the sale or ban of the app. Congress and the Biden administration warned that TikTok poses a national security threat because Beijing could demand U.S. user data from ByteDance under Chinese national security law or use the apps algorithms to push propaganda. TikTok and ByteDance denied the app is a threat and said banning it would suppress free speech for its 170 million U.S. users. Stephen Vladeck, a professor at the Georgetown University Law Center, called Trump's TikTok brief a not-terribly-auspicious start for the incoming Solicitor General and President-Elect. In a Substack post on Monday, Vladeck wrote Sauers request that the Supreme Court pause the TikTok law without any constitutional determination is without legal basis and ask[s] for the law to take a backseat to the politics altogether. Vladeck also took aim at Sauers description of Trump as powerful, commanding and resoundingly successful, which he called ridiculous puffery. This kind of ego-stroking, navel-gazing writing in the governments briefs ... will have significant (and, in my view, significantly deleterious) long-term implications for the governments relationship with the Court, Vladeck wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right-of-center legal scholars were also surprised by Sauers unprecedented ask. Jack Goldsmith, a law professor at Harvard University and senior fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, wrote in a post on X that Sauers brief diminishes his credibility before the Court even before assuming Office. Josh Blackman, a conservative professor of constitutional law at the South Texas College of Law Houston, wrote on Sunday that he can't think of a comparable example where the incoming President has sought to counteract the current President before the Supreme Court. He added, however, that we are living in strange times and that Trumps brief at least ups the odds for TikTok, ever so slightly. And despite Rozenshteins claim that it would be lawless for the Supreme Court to grant Trumps request, he said theres no way to reverse such a decision. Theres no legal recourse for what the Supreme Court does, said Rozenshtein. Its the Supreme Court. (WPRI) On the first day of 2025, there will be new laws kicking in across the country. Heres a look at what laws take effect in January in Massachusetts. MORE: What new laws go into effect in Rhode Island in 2025? Salary range transparency Public and private employers with 25 or more employees will be required to disclose salary ranges in job postings. Employers must also give employees the pay range of a position on request or for a promotion or transfer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employers who violate the law could face fines or civil citations. Employees will also be protected against any retaliation for asking about salary ranges. Health care pricing transparency A bill signed into law by former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker in 2021 will impact the states health care laws starting in 2025. Going forward, health care providers must tell patients how much they will have to pay for planned hospital stays, medical procedures and other services based on the patients specific health insurance plan. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health will be able to fine providers who violate the law $2,500 for each instance. Parentage equality In 2025, the states parentage laws are being updated for the first time in 40 years. The legislation is aimed at protecting the rights of parents who use surrogacy, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and assisted reproduction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The language of the law will also be updated to be more inclusive to parents in the LGBTQ+ community. Uber and Lyft benefits Uber and Lyft drivers will receive more protections, including a minimum wage, guaranteed paid sick leave, and a stipend to buy into the states paid family and medical leave program. The changes are a result of a settlement in a lawsuit where the state claimed that Uber and Lyft drivers are employees under the Massachusetts Wage and Hour Laws. Starting in January 2025, the earnings floor for drivers will increase by 3% annually. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Nesi's Notes Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Several new laws will take effect on New Years Day in Massachusetts and will impact a lot of people. There is a new law around salary and wage transparency. The goal is to close the gender and racial wage gaps in the state. The key provision doesnt kick in until October 29th. Thats when companies with more than 25 employees must disclose salary ranges in their job postings. And workers will have a protected right to ask for salary ranges in the workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a tax break coming for many Bay State families. Starting with the 2024 tax year, parents with children or people who care for disabled adults can claim $440 per dependent. For a family with three kids, thats $1,200. A key provision of the Patients First Act takes effect on January 1st. With the goal of trying to reduce surprise medical bills, providers will be required to inform patients how much theyll pay for planned hospital stays and medical procedures. And the Massachusetts Parentage Act updates parents legal rights for the first time in 40 years. It makes the language more inclusive to members of the LGBTQ+ community who used surrogacy or invitro fertilization to build their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW MEMPHIS, Tenn. In just two weeks, Tennessee state lawmakers will return to the capital for the beginning of the general assembly. As the sessions proceed big decisions could be made regarding your child and their education. This includes calls for a cellphone ban in classrooms across the state. If passed, the legislation would prohibit students from displaying, using, or accessing an electronic device, like a cell phone, during instructional time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside cell phone usage, Governor Bill Lees push for a statewide expansion of school vouchers is also set to be discussed. State law doesnt allow school board recall; White says he wants to meet Some lawmakers are also monitoring the Memphis Shelby County School Boards recent effort to remove the districts superintendent. House Education Chairman Mark White says he spoke with Dr. Marie Feagins this week. So, shes been addressing a lot of these things, and so where Im sitting right now and thats why I want to talk to the school board. I stand behind Dr. Feagins because I think shes addressing a lot of the issues that have plagued our school system for a long time, White said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chairman White made those comments on WREGs newest show, News Channel Three at 3. The general assembly convenes on January 14. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. This undated file photo shows the intelligent battery swap and charging station for electric vehicles on the airside of Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport in southwest China's Chongqing. (Chongqing Airport Group/Handout via Xinhua) CHONGQING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Like changing tides, the sea of shimmering colored lights brighten and dim to guide aircraft at an airport in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, a mountainous city famed for its hot pot cuisine. The brightness of the airport increases to guide aircraft during takeoffs and landings at night, and then dims once operations are complete. Thanks to its intelligent lighting system, the Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (Chongqing Airport) can automatically and flexibly adjust its lighting to suit the demands and conditions of its different areas while ensuring flight safety, according to the Chongqing Airport Group. Chongqing Airport is demonstrating the green transformation of China's civil aviation industry, which ranks second globally in terms of transportation scale and accounts for over 20 percent of global air transport growth. The energy consumption and carbon emissions of aircraft, airport ground vehicles and terminal buildings are key challenges to the airport's green transformation. Targeting these challenges, Chongqing Airport has been promoting a slew of low-carbon endeavors by constructing distributed photovoltaic power generation facilities, utilizing new energy ground vehicles and improving charging facilities at the airport. By the end of 2023, more than 22 percent of ground vehicles permitted to operate at the airport were new-energy vehicles, including shuttle buses, luggage trailers and passenger stair trucks. Thanks to intensive green-transformation measures, the airport reduced its annual carbon emissions by 9,826 tonnes in 2022 and by 2,974 tonnes in 2023, according to statistics from the Chongqing Airport Group. In late December, the Chongqing Airport began construction on a distributed photovoltaic power generation project with a planned annual electricity generation capacity of 24 million kilowatt-hours, which will account for about 10 percent of the airport's total annual electricity consumption. The project is expected to be put into operation in the first half of 2025, and will help the airport reduce carbon emissions by about 20,000 tonnes per year. Looking ahead, the airport will expand its green energy application scenarios, construct more new energy projects and boost its efficient use of clean energy, according to the airport group. China has committed to the dual carbon goals of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Civil aviation authorities and airports across the country are working together to introduce various new measures, with green energy substitution being key to these changes. On Sept. 19, China initiated a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) program in several airports to promote a green, low-carbon transition in the aviation sector. The move echoed the trend of SAF application in the global civil aviation industry. Made from renewable materials, SAF is a liquid alternative to conventional jet fuel that is capable of reducing carbon emissions by up to 80 percent over its life cycle when compared to standard jet fuel. Initially, China's SAF program involves 12 flights operated by China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Air China, with SAF being supplied at four airports. In 2025, the number of participants will gradually increase, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). China's civil aviation sector has been continuously intensifying efforts to reduce energy consumption and emissions in the coming years, taking intensive measures such as continuous fleet renewal, the use of new energy vehicles, and carbon footprint cuts for in-service aircraft and airports, the CAAC said. This image shows a layout diagram of the photovoltaic modules at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport in southwest China's Chongqing. (Chongqing Airport Group/Handout via Xinhua) This photo taken on Dec. 5, 2024 shows the high-pole lights under an intelligent control system at a tarmac of Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport in southwest China's Chongqing. (Chongqing Airport Group/Handout via Xinhua) The gatekeepers of Elvis Presley's estate are trying to recover a potential trove of records and memorabilia left behind by the King of Rock and Roll, according to a lawsuit filed in California. The lawsuit, filed just before 6 p.m. on Dec. 24, is a fitting coda to a year that saw Presley's iconic Memphis home nearly auctioned off as part of what federal authorities now call an attempt to defraud both Presley's family and Elvis Presley Enterprises. Now, the operators of Graceland allege "irreplaceable" items they bought more than three decades ago from Presley's longtime manager, Col. Tom Parker, have fallen into the hands of people who have no right to them and are now trying to sell them in an online auction. PHOTO: Singer Elvis Presley and his manager Colonel Tom Parker sit at a typewriter in front of the a picture of the RCA Victor Dog in circa 1956 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images) "It is now clear that some of the material that the parties to the Parker Acquisition intended to be transferred to [Elvis Presley Enterprises], never was," the lawsuit claims. Despite "clear and repeated demands" that the defendants stop hawking what was not theirs to sell, those demands were "ignored," according to the filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At issue is a collection that allegedly includes everything from contracts and agreements signed by Presley, to a telegram from associates congratulating Elvis and his then-wife Priscilla on the birth of their daughter, Lisa Marie. Elvis Presley Enterprises contends the cache of memorabilia is valued at upwards of $2 million, though the "unique" artifacts are "priceless." The items were listed on the website of GWS Auctions, a California company that boasts sales of "celebrity" items from the likes of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and Johnny Cash. The Presley items listed in the lawsuit appeared as available online in mid-November under the heading "The Lost Collection of Elvis, Col. Tom Parker & More." Elvis Presley Enterprises alleges the auctioneeing company advertised while knowing the sellers had no legal right to the items, which the company denies. MORE: Elvis Presley through the years The origin of the dispute dates back to 1990, when Col. Parker, "known as a meticulous record keeper and a real pack rat who held onto everything," directly sold EPE "perhaps the greatest collection of Elvis-related documents and memorabilia ever held by anyone other than Elvis himself," the suit alleged, adding it is the "entire collection" as it pertained to "Elvis and Elvis related memorabilia, irrespective of where such material was located." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPE acquired the collection as part of its ongoing effort to catalogue, preserve and showcase artifacts connected to the life and career of one of rock and roll's first global superstars. One of the company's executives, Jack Soden, "had dealt with and known Col. Parker for many years" and said he "was acting with the authority of Elvis's widow Priscilla Presley, was intent on acquiring from Parker every scrap of Elvis-related material Parker owned." PHOTO: Elvis Presley and his bride Priscilla Ann Beaulieu, pose for photograph following their wedding at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, May 1, 1967. (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) The lawsuit alleges company leaders believed all the items covered in the agreement "had been collected," only now to find otherwise. Some of those items "ended up in the possession" of one of Parker's former longtime employees after Parker's death in 1997, according to the filing. Then in December 2021, the lawsuit says, the co-founder of GWS Auctions, Brigitte Kruse, reached out to both Priscilla Presley and Graceland's chief archivist to tell them she knew that the employee had items that should be in EPE's custody. Kruse allegedly even shared videos of her discussions with him acknowledging who owned what. Kruse allegedly told Graceland's archivist Angela Marchese "that she knew these materials were involved in 'theft' and rightfully belonged to EPE," according to a signed declaration by Marchese obtained by ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a Presley executive confronted the employee directly, he backtracked, saying it had all been "a misunderstanding," and he only had "photocopies," not originals, the suit says. "Some of the very documents and memorabilia Kruse claimed [the employee] possessed have now been listed for sale," the suit alleges, adding "it is apparent" how those items "made their way" to the auction house. PHOTO: Elvis Presley (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) MORE: Missouri woman arrested in alleged scheme to defraud Elvis Presley's family through Graceland sale "Kruse listed the Property for sale despite knowing, as she made clear in her email to Marchese and contemporaneous conversations with Marchese, that Kruse knew these items to be stolen Property rightfully belonging to [EPE]," the suit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPE sent a cease-and-desist letter to Kruse earlier this month. In response, a lawyer for GWS said the company "denies any wrongdoing whatsoever," and denies that the "characterizations of the communications between" Kruse and Marchese "are accurate or complete." GWS also denied EPE's property interest and said that they would "proceed with the auction," according to the suit and appended exhibits. In a statement to ABC News, Kruse pushed back on the allegations against her and her company, saying that the assertions are "unfounded and without merit." "EPE and Graceland's assertions are unfounded and without merit. This is merely another attempt to discredit our founder and the company. Under no circumstances would we engage in the sale of "stolen" items, and this collection was sought after by auction houses globally," Kruse said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The items in question successfully passed our auction house's due diligence process and were subsequently offered for public sale. Furthermore, no police report has ever been filed by EPE/Graceland, and the owner has possessed this collection for several decades," Kruse added. As of Monday night, the auction site is still up, though bidding is closed. PHOTO: Graceland Elvis Presley mansion sign Memphis USA (Education Images/Universal Image) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Riley Keough says she wants to preserve Elvis Presley's Graceland: 'Our family home' The keepers of the Presley legacy say the decades-long story of Elvis is one of people trying to profit off of the King and often at the expense of him and his family. In May, Elvis' idyllic Graceland retreat was mysteriously announced for auction by an unknown company calling itself "Naussany Investments," which claimed that Lisa Marie used Graceland as collateral to take out a $3.8 million loan and had not repaid it. The ensuing investigation stretched all the way from Memphis to Florida, where the notary whose fake seal was used for the alleged fraud spoke up -- and Presley's granddaughter countersued, stopping a possible sale. In August, the alleged perpetrator behind that alleged fraud was arrested in the Ozarks: Lisa Findley was apprehended on Aug. 16, the 47th anniversary of Elvis' death. Federal prosecutors charged the Missouri woman with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The case is still pending, and Findley is last listed in custody in Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People have been trying to take from Elvis since Elvis was Elvis," Joel Weinshanker, managing partner of Elvis Presley Enterprises, told ABC News this fall. "Elvis was a human being. He was a really good human being," he said. "Pick on somebody else. Have a heart, have a conscience. And even if you don't have a heart or have a conscience -- know that you won't get away with it." Lawsuit alleges 'irreplaceable' Elvis Presley artifacts illegally put up for auction originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Concrete plans are under way for an online meeting between US billionaire Elon Musk and the leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), Alice Weidel, her spokesman said on Tuesday. "We are already in contact about an X Space between the two," spokesman Daniel Tapp told Spiegel magazine and dpa. Spaces is a feature to enable live broadcasts of conversations on Musk's platform X. South African-born Musk, who is known for posting provocative messages on his platform, has been provoking debate in German politics, as the country prepares for elections on February 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend, he once again promoted the AfD in an opinion column for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper which has sparked widespread discussion and criticism. "Wait until Alice and I do an X Spaces conversation. They will lose their minds," Musk wrote on Monday in response to an influencer close to the AfD. Weidel previously thanked Musk for his support in a video on X. So far, there has been no personal phone call or meeting between Weidel and Musk. "But that will surely change soon," said the AfD spokesman. ALBANY, N.Y. (WTEN) Two new suspects have been identified in the 1996 deaths of a New York millionaire and his home health aide, a case in which another man had been tried five times. Westchester County District Attorney Miriam Rocah on Monday revealed the new developments, a result of a probe into the double homicide investigation. The identities of the suspects were not released. The newly identified suspects in the case have no connection to Selwyn Days, who faced charges and spent 16 years in prison in the case, according to authorities. There has also reportedly been a confession supported by forensic evidence, per court documents obtained by The Journal News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stop, stop, stop: Investigation underway after jet carrying Gonzaga team taxis toward departing Delta flight In November 1996, the bodies of Archie Harris, 79, Betty Ramcharan, 35, and Harris pet dog were found beaten and stabbed in Harris home in affluent Eastchester, about 25 miles north of New York City. Police suspected burglary, noting in 1996 that Harris wealth and volatility could have contributed to the attack. Authorities initially accused Selwyn Days, whose mother previously worked as Harris home health aide. Arrested in 2001, Days confessed after interrogation but later recanted, arguing that police coerced him. Prosecutors argued in court that Days believed Harris had abused Days mother and acted out of revenge. Defense attorneys, meanwhile, made the case that Ramcharan committed a murder-suicide over Harriss money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors called Harris abusive and boastful about large sums of cash stored on-site. A diabetic and retired millionaire, he had a contentious public history with his aides and police. When she worked for him, Days mother accused Harris of sexual assault. Hed also caught criminal charges for a gun threat against an employee. A jury acquitted Days in 2017 after 16 years of incarceration. No physical evidence linked Days to the crime scene, and his alibi placed him in North Carolina during the murders. Detectives had also only recorded a portion of the interrogation where he confessed, beginning after 1 a.m. In 2023, a state judge dismissed Days lawsuit seeking compensation for his wrongful conviction. Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt reach divorce settlement after 8 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris will named Ramcharan as the primary beneficiary of his $2.1 million estate. However, her death meant that Harris three estranged children would get the inheritance instead. The estate settled with Days mother for close to $9,000 over her accusation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. A view of the Colorado House of Representatives on Jan. 24, 2024. (Quentin Young/Colorado Newsline) Government transparency advocates expressed their frustration with recent changes made to Colorados open meetings law during a public hearing Monday, though there is no guarantee the law will get amended again. The Legislature approved the change in March in an attempt to update the open meetings law for a world with email, cell phones and text messages, which did not exist when voters adopted the law in 1972. Sponsors and supporters also said the changes allow legislators to brainstorm and have informal conversations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics, however, contend that the update allows for secret policy negotiations that fall outside of formal votes and committee hearings. This could deprive members of the public, they argue, of a meaningful view of how policies are formulated and instead allow public access only to formal votes without substantive discussion. As a watchdog, its important for the press to also have access to the work that you do not just the public votes, but understanding how you reach your decisions. Were concerned that (Senate Bill 24-157) weakens that ability and makes it easier for those discussions to happen in private, Kevin Dale, the executive editor of Colorado Public Radio News, told legislative leaders on Monday. The opportunity for public testimony before the end of 2024 was a requirement in the law. The Legislative Council has the power to consider changes on an annual basis until 2026. The original law defines an open meeting, which requires a notice and ability for public observation, as a gathering between at least two lawmakers to discuss public business. The update, which applies only to the General Assembly and not local public bodies such as city councils, redefines public business as introduced legislation or proposed legislation prepared by the Office of Legislative Legal Services and under discussion by a quorum of a committee and excludes matters that are by nature interpersonal, administrative, or logistical or that concern personnel, planning, process, training, or operations. Previously, the law defined public business as the formation of public policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That new definition was the basis for the exclusion of reporters from Democratic caucus meetings over the summer that went over the possibility of a special summer session on property taxes. There was no introduced legislation at the time of the caucus meetings. It was startling and disturbing to hear that journalists and the public were excluded from caucus meetings before the August special session on property taxes using the new definition of public business. Caucus members were given copies of the tax proposal during meetings, but leaders told the Colorado Sun there really wasnt a policy conversation, said Jeff Roberts, the executive director of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition. House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Dillon Democrat, said that the August meetings had substantial conversation about the campaigns for and against a pair of property tax measures that were on the November ballot. The risk of those measures was the impetus for the special session, but the campaigns were not identified as public business. Since then, McCluskie said House Democrats started posting notices for meetings that could contain policy discussion even if there are not introduced bills involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Dale and Roberts, as well as Colorado Press Association CEO Tim Regan-Porter, want to see all caucus meetings subject to the open meeting law. Until such a change is made, we urge all caucuses to voluntarily adopt this standard as a matter of good faith and accountability, Regan-Porter said. It is possible that the Legislature will consider bills next session to address the open meeting issue. I do believe that we need to continue to move forward in figuring out how to openly, before the people craft the best policy possible, Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, a Monument Republican, said. Lundeen voted against the bill this year. We need to find out how to do the publics business in front of the public in a way that still preserves the fact that creating legislation is very relational. The Legislature reconvenes on Jan. 8. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Taxpayers funnel 20 billion annually into the Home Office one of the largest budgets in government. This vast sum sustains an army of 40,000 civil servants engaged in immigration and asylum management, policing, and national security. Counter-terrorism, the National Crime Agency, and MI5 are all housed under its auspices. The 43 independent police forces operate on separate budgets, but beyond that, the Home Offices sprawling remit is directed by the Home Secretary and Ministers, whom taxpayers might reasonably assume are prioritising crime-fighting, border control, and public safety. How wrong they are. While most workplaces in the private sector feature occasional diversity workshops as part of their corporate facade, the scale and ideology of the Home Offices embrace of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (EDI) training is a different beast altogether. It was, ironically, The Telegraphs investigative journalism that first brought these insidious programmes to my attention. As Home Secretary, I discovered, much to my horror, that the Home Office was haemorrhaging thousands of pounds not on its critical objectives, but on a burgeoning empire of ideological indoctrination masquerading as training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I initially probed my civil servant team about these activities, they reassured me these were a handful of optional, benign courses. Nothing to trouble yourself with, Minister, they said. But the reports kept coming. Each week unveiled fresh revelations: another obscure sub-directorate subjected to interminable woke workshops. It was as though I was playing a relentless game of whack-a-mole against a metastasising EDI agenda. Determined to uncover the scale of this misuse of taxpayer funds, I demanded a comprehensive inventory of all EDI training, workshops, events, and groups. Weeks later, I received a voluminous spreadsheet forty pages of it cataloguing hundreds of sessions. I rolled up my sleeves and dug in, scrutinising every line to uncover the extent of this ideological capture. What I found was galling. There were hours of presentations depicting the British Empire as a singular epoch of exploitation and oppression, requiring modern civil servants to atone for the alleged sins of their ancestors. Staff were warned that failing to invite every colleague to after-work drinks might constitute unconscious bias. The tone of emails, I learned, could be deemed harassment. There were safe spaces where officials could vent their emotional responses to government policy. Speaker events and training materials leaned heavily on the lexicon of activist dogma, promoting books like White Fragility and Why Im No Longer Talking to White People About Race. The curriculum extolled critical race theory as gospel truth while ignoring the myriad contributions of the British Empire to global progress and prosperity. When I questioned this, I was met with barely concealed derision. My inquiries about balance about recognising Britains historic achievements alongside its flaws were dismissed as reactionary. I was told that employees needed to bring their whole selves to work. I retorted that I neither wanted to see anyones whole self nor expected them to see mine. A professional environment is not a therapy session or a family dinner table; we are a workplace devoted to serving the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let me be clear: the majority of civil servants I encountered were dedicated, professional, and politically neutral. Yet, it was undeniable that a culture of ideological orthodoxy had taken root, subverting the mission of the department. Some staff, emboldened by my stance, confided in me about the corrosive impact of EDI on immigration enforcement and policing policy. Others admitted they felt unable to voice dissent for fear of ostracism or career repercussions. How did we reach this absurd juncture? Much of the blame can be traced to the fallout from the Windrush scandal an appalling failure of the Home Office that spurred an overcorrection. But the pendulum swung so far that the department traded competence for contrition, losing sight of its core responsibilities in the process. Teaching civil servants to view their history with shame and their identities as central to their work does nothing to restore public trust. When I began dismantling these training programmes, the backlash was ferocious. Yet I was heartened by messages of support from civil servants who felt liberated. Regrettably, much of this progress was swiftly undone following my departure a failure that still troubles me. The solution is both simple and urgent. Government departments must prioritise professionalism over identity politics. Respect and inclusion are non-negotiable, but they should be the by-products of a culture that prizes competence, efficiency, and a shared sense of national purpose. Training should focus on delivering excellence, not indulging personal grievances or perpetuating divisive ideologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Radical reform is imperative. If we fail to challenge this institutional rot, we will betray the taxpayers who fund these departments and the values that underpin our democracy. The time for complacency is over. We must restore common sense and purpose to the heart of our civil service before its too late. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Papa Woodys Wood-Fired Pizza has been a part of Sioux Falls for eight years but on Christmas Eve, owners Lisa Esser and Steve Blumke announced on Facebook theyd be closing their doors. The post says they did not make the decision lightly and that it would take quote an absolute Christmas Miracle for them to keep going. For the first time since that post, KELOLAND News spoke with Esser Monday. She reiterated over the phone that the decision was a difficult one but they are actively looking for solutions on how they might be able to move forward as a restaurant. She also promises they are finding ways to take care of their employees and anyone who might have a gift card for Papa Woodys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lights are now off at Papa Woodys but they arent alone. Another restaurant in town seems to have also gone dark, leaving many customers with questions. McNallys Irish Pub near 69th and Western Avenue has not posted on social media since December 15th. Just a week prior to that, McNallys shared a post from another Sioux Falls restaurant saying they could use some support. If you visit the pubs website you are now just greeted with an Irish blessing. KELOLAND News was able to get a hold of the general manager for McNallys today who says as of right now they are closed but at this point she could not give any further information. We hope to learn more in January. Over the phone, Lisa Esser with Papa Woodys also shared insight of similar struggles many small businesses are facing right now. She says they all need support whether through spending money locally or even just leaving positive reviews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Dec. 30LIMA A Lima man was recently indicted on aggravated vehicular assault, a second-degree felony, and a misdemeanor charge of driving while intoxicated in the Allen County Common Pleas Court after a crash left one person seriously injured in June. According to a crash report written by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, at around 2:19 a.m. on June 24, Leroy Harris Jr., 44, was traveling southbound on Interstate 75 near mile marker 126 when he traveled off the right side of the roadway, striking a ditch and a fence, causing him to overturn and come to rest partially in a river. Harris and the passenger of the vehicle, identified as Breanna Todd, 31, of Lima, were taken by Bath EMS to Lima Memorial Hospital. Harris was listed as having possible injuries and Todd was suspected to have serious injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A blood alcohol test was given to Harris and resulted in a value of .159, according to the report. Harris is being held in the Allen County Jail on a $50,000 bond. No hearings have been scheduled yet. Reach Charlotte Caldwell at 567-242-0451. Featured Local Savings Dec. 30LIMA A Lima man's felonious assault case was recently transferred from Lima Municipal Court to the Allen County Common Pleas Court for review by a grand jury. According to a statement of facts provided in court documents by Allen County Sheriff's Detective Brett Rider, on Dec. 13, deputies responded to a domestic violence situation with the victim at the hospital with a swollen shut right ear and eye and at least one possible rib fracture. The victim said James Bailey, 48, caused the injuries. When deputies arrived at the scene, "James Bailey barricaded himself in the residence, refusing to exit, stating he would shoot any officer that approached his residence. James was known to be in possession of a .22 caliber rifle," Rider wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The SWAT and hostage negotiation teams responded to the scene and a search warrant was issued. Several hours later Bailey was taken into custody. Bailey is being held in the Allen County Jail on a $500,000 bond. Reach Charlotte Caldwell at 567-242-0451. Featured Local Savings Dec. 30LIMA Two Lima men's cases dealing with aggravated burglary were recently transferred from Lima Municipal Court to the Allen County Common Pleas Court for review by a grand jury. According to a statement of facts provided in court documents by Lima Police Detective Sean Neidemire, on Dec. 15, officers responded to a woman on her apartment's porch with her face covered in blood saying Darrell Johnson, 57, and Juan Hernandez, 60, assaulted her. She said Johnson came into the apartment with a gun and pointed it at her friend, then Hernandez started assaulting her by hitting her several times in the face and strangling her. They both asked her where "the stuff" was. Neidemire said Hernandez admitted to detectives that he assaulted the woman but said he did it because the woman tried to stab him with a needle. Hernandez said he went to the woman's apartment with Johnson because he wanted to know what happened to his friend who overdosed. Johnson told detectives the gun was a BB gun. Hernandez and Johnson are being held on $250,000 bonds in the Allen County Jail. Reach Charlotte Caldwell at 567-242-0451. Featured Local Savings ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) A security guard is recovering after a man, attempting to steal from a downtown liquor store, shot him in the leg. It started as a typical Sunday night at El Rey Liquors on Central in downtown Albuquerque. The gentleman comes in around 11:03 looks normal looks like an everyday person, appeared normal, clean cut, said Elijah, the stores general manager. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They ask if he needs any help. No, looks like he was just browsing to buy alcohol and then around 11:10 is when hes in the corner here, and he thinks one of my guys is not watching, and thats when he decides to come out with two bottles, said Elijah. Surveillance video showed 35-year-old Kevin Metcalf, as he attempted to leave without paying. A security guard then tried to pull Metcalf back. The bottles break, thats fine. No one gets them, thats cool, said Elijah. Video then showed as employees turned to walk back inside, Metcalf pulled out a gun and fired toward them. He shoots at him, assaults his life, you know, attempted murder for nothing, said Elijah. Elijah said the bullet went through the security guards calf and through their front glass door. Its sad, its frustrating you know, Its frustrating, I was worried about my employee. You know, is he hurt? Is he alive, you know? said Elijah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elijah said the security guard is doing well and is recovering but its something he never wanted to never wanted his employees to have to face. I dont want my staff to come into work and have to fear for their life you know, I get its a liquor store. I get all that but thats not part of the equation. You shouldnt watch out if youre going to get shot just doing your job, said Elijah. Albuquerque police located Metcalf a few blocks away shortly after. Hes facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated shoplifting ,and negligent use of a deadly weapon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. SOFIA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Four homeless people died and two others were hospitalized following a fire in a train car at the Central Railway Station in Sofia early Tuesday morning, authorities said. Ivan Georgiev, head of the "Mass Events" department at the Sofia Metropolitan Directorate of Interior, told reporters the fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. local time (0030 GMT). An investigation is underway, he added. Pirogov University Multi-Profile Hospital for Active Treatment and Emergency Medicine said on its website that the two injured individuals were admitted to the Toxicology Clinic in serious condition. "One is nearly 65 years old, and the other is over 35 years old," the hospital said. According to the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ), the train car had been prepared shortly before midnight to service the morning train from Sofia to Petrich. "Initial information indicates that a group of homeless people illegally entered the carriage," BDZ stated. Later, the Bulgarian Prosecutor's Office said all possible causes of the fire are being investigated, including intentional and accidental scenarios. MANHATTAN (KSNT) Manhattan locals looking to celebrate the arrival of 2025 with the ball drop will need to head to a new location this year. The Little Apple ball drop, signaling the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, will return for its 22nd year, but at a different place. The So Long Saloon at 1130 Moro Street has the honor this year for hosting the ball drop. Aggieville businesses are expecting huge crowds to attend the celebrations. People who are feeling up to it can even take part in a dance battle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can dance with a group, dance by yourself, said Dan Michaels, operations manager at Qcountry 103.5. You can dance with a partner. Why are flags in Kansas being lowered to half-staff this week? People who want to participate in the dance battle can head over to where Michaels is DJing at the intersection next to the saloon. Hell accept your information and enter you into the contest. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. BUFFALO N.Y. (WIVB) President Jimmy Carter died Sunday at the age of 100. During his time in office, he made several stops in Western New York and even played a pivotal role in cleaning up Love Canal in Niagara Falls. He was very intellectually honest, theres no question about that and he was a pleasure to work with and he had terrific staff, too, said former congressman John LaFalce. LaFalce had a front row seat to history. During his time in congress, he met six U.S. presidents, including President Jimmy Carter. LaFalce is now in his 80s but his memory of the president is still as sharp as ever. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called me on a Sunday morning and I answered the phone and he said, well John I dont want to speak with you right now I want to speak to your wife. We had just gotten married so he talked to my wife and that won me over, LaFalce said. The former congressman worked around the clock with President Carter to solve the enormous problems with Love Canal. The landfill became an environmental disaster following decades of toxic chemical dumping. In 1978, President Carter declared the area a federal health emergency and hundreds of families were relocated for their safety. The EPA set up a superfund and LaFalce was right there when Carter signed the bill. In 1978 finally we did pass the superfund bill providing billions of dollars for comprehensive clean ups for formerly abandoned hazardous waste sites, LaFalce said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local political analyst Len Lenihan met President Carter twice. He served the world, he served the country, and he served Western New York, Lenihan said. The first time Lenihan met Carter was in 1976 at the old Western Electric Plant in Tonawanda. We greeted him, we got to shake his hand and the guy next to me, who I didnt know, said I need a job. Carter, who was a candidate at the time, said, dont worry, Ill get you a job no problem. It was just that enthusiasm and spontaneity that moved us as we watched him campaign, Lenihan said. That brief interaction left a lasting impression. Im glad, certainly proud I got a chance to meet him but also happy for our country, that he came our way, served us and was our president, Lenihan said. Latest Local News Sarah Minkewicz is an Emmy-nominated reporter and Buffalo native who has been a part of the News 4 team since 2019. Follow Sarah on Twitter @SarahMinkewicz and click here to see more of her work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Starting in the new year, the minimum wage will increase to $15 an hour for workers and $9 an hour for servers making tips. The one-dollar increase completes a six-year transition that began in 2019 when Illinois had an $8.25 minimum wage. The 2019 law was the first major legislative victory for Governor JB Pritzker. He signed the bill one month into his first term. Dealerships in Illinois forced to pay $20 million settlement for defrauding customers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This means restaurant owners will have to consider raising their prices to make a profit while paying staff. Kellehers Irish Pub & Eatery owner Sean Sullivan said he thinks wages should be up to the municipalities. Let the municipalities decide where they need to be at for a minimum wage. You know that central planning from Chicago doesnt work for the rest of downstate. It might be that thats what they need to pay up there to get their talent here, we didnt need to do that, said Sullivan. He stressed the impact of having to pay every staff member $15 hourly will make the costs of meals rise and could end up hurting businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois will become one of just ten states with a $15 minimum wage in 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. NILES, Ohio (WKBN) A new local restaurant will celebrate its grand opening on New Years Eve with a dance party, food and drinks. Read next: Lake-effect snow warnings issued near the Valley Mad For Chicken is a franchise known for its Korean-inspired chicken. Its new location at 5851 Youngstown-Warren Road in Niles is the first in Ohio. The signature dish is the soy garlic chicken. Recently, a grand opening for the bar was held but now they will launch food service Tuesday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then the grand opening New Years Eve party begins at 10 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. with a DJ and full bar. According to the Mad For Chicken Ohio Facebook page, the event is free and no tickets are necessary. Additional parking will be available in the back parking lot and next door. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) A New London man is facing charges after speeding on Route 2 in Marlborough, Mass., police said. Andujar Escarraman, 21, was charged with reckless driving and operating under suspension. Pedestrian dies after being struck by motorcycle in West Haven Police said at around 3:13 p.m. on Friday, a trooper was conducting speed checks on Route 2 in Marlborough when they witnessed a BMW speeding in the left lane. Troopers said the car was driving at 108 mph, higher than the 65 mph posted speed limit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers conducted a traffic stop and Escarraman told police he was in a rush to get home. Escarraman was released from custody on a $2,000 bond and is scheduled to appear at Manchester Superior Court on Jan. 14. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. A detainee at a military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, has been repatriated to Tunisia, the Pentagon announced Monday. Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi, 59, was eligible to transfer following an interagency review process, the release said. He was the longest-held detainee at the prison. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told Congress of his support to repatriate al-Yazidi in early 2024. The Defense Department worked with its partner in Tunisia to complete the transfer requirements, according to the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN reported that rights groups have noted al-Yazidi has been incarcerated at Guantanamo since its opening on Jan. 11, 2002. He had been accused of being a member of al Qaeda, a U.S. military assessment from 2007 found, according to the outlet. Though, he was never charged at the war court, The New York Times reported. Human Rights First said that al-Yazidi has been eligible for transfer since 2007, by both former Presidents George W. Bush and Obama, but a deal was not reached, per CNNs reporting. Yazidis repatriation was the fourth in the last two weeks, according to The Times. The Defense Departments release noted that there are still 26 detainees at Guantanamo, 14 of which are eligible for transfer, three are eligible for a Periodic Review Board, seven are involved in military judicial processes and two have been convicted and sentenced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ukraine's infantry fighting vehicles have been an essential asset in the war against Russia. These vehicles, including the US-made Bradleys, offer high maneuverability and firepower in combat. Ukraine has also refurbished and redeployed captured Russian fighting vehicles like the BMP-3. Infantry fighting vehicles have proven a vital asset in Ukraine's arsenal, serving as the backbone of its mechanized forces in the war against Russia. Ukraine's IFVs offer troops the protection, maneuverability, and firepower they need to gain an advantage against Russia's larger and better-equipped military. Many of Ukraine's combat vehicles are Soviet-made and have been augmented with Western-built systems like the Bradley fighting vehicle. But Ukrainian troops have also made use of weapons captured from the enemy, refurbishing and redeploying Russian combat vehicles like the BMP-3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Development A mechanic with the Ukrainian army repairs a captured Russian BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle. YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP via Getty Images Produced by the Russian manufacturing company Kurganmashzavod, the BMP-3 an abbreviation of Boevaya Mashina Pekhoty, or infantry fighting vehicle in Russian was first used by the Soviet army in 1990. The armored, tracked, and the amphibious vehicle was designed to transport troops across varied combat terrain and water while protecting troops and providing direct fire support. The combat vehicle was developed to replace Russia's aging fleet of BMP-1 and BMP-2 vehicles, upgraded with a thicker armour made of steel and aluminium and equipped with more modern weaponry with improved precision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armament A Ukrainian soldier drives a BMP-3 during training. Ethan Swope/Getty Images The 23-foot-long light tank is operated by a crew of three a commander, gunner, and driver and can accommodate up to seven additional personnel with space for storage. Weighing about 20 tons, the aluminum-hulled vehicle is still light enough to be fully amphibious, propelled by two water jets at the rear. With a range of about 372 miles, it can reach speeds of up to 43 mph on land and about six mph while afloat. The BMP-3 is armed with a 100mm cannon, a 30mm automatic cannon that fires up to 330 rounds a minute, as well as three machine guns. The crew can also fire anti-tank guided missiles through the main gun's barrel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fighting vehicle features advanced sights that allow crews to operate at night and in low visibility, as well as a two-plane weapon stabilizer that can precisely aim at targets while traveling at speeds up to 18 mph. Closing the IFV gap Ukrainian Army mechanics refurbished the captured Russian BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle. YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP via Getty Images Equipped with the firepower to engage fortified positions and armored vehicles, Ukrainian troops have operated IFVs in both direct and indirect fire support roles as light tanks, closing the capability gap as Ukraine faces a shortage of battle tanks. Ukrainian forces have suffered heavy losses in their mechanized forces, including combat vehicles like the Bradleys and refurbished Russian BMPs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian BMPs are equipped with heavier armament compared to the American Bradley vehicles, whereas the latter has heavier armor that better protects troops inside from small arms and artillery. So while more lethal Russian BMPs have been battering Ukraine's mechanized forces, Ukrainian troops have a better chance of survival in Western-made vehicles. But repairing and redeploying captured Russian vehicles hasn't been an easy task. Ukrainian troops struggled to find parts to fix the seized equipment, which they view as "trophies" of the ongoing war, The Washington Post reported in 2022. A commander of a Ukrainian maintenance squadron told The Post that it's "obvious it should be fighting the enemy and not sitting in a hangar." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Variants A BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle has two waterjets that allow it to drive through the water at up to 6 mph. Rosoboronexport Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are several variants of the BMP-3, adapted to its combat environment. The upgraded BMP-3M features more advanced automatic fire control systems and thermal imaging, as well as a new ammunition loading system that can launch laser-guided projectiles. The BMP-3F was purpose-built for at-sea operations, designed with improved buoyancy and seaworthiness that allow it to operate on amphibious assault missions for up to seven hours. The BMP-3K, a tactical command variant, can act as a mobile command center, lacking the machine guns mounted at the front of the hull and instead equipped with additional radio and navigation systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Future drone carrier A BMP-3 military vehicle fires its 100mm rifled gun during a military exercise in Moscow. Pavel Pavlov/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images As drone warfare redefines the battlefield in Ukraine, IFVs like the BMP-3 are no exception. Earlier this year, Russian state media reported that the BMP-3 could soon carry mini-drones. "The work to introduce drones into the armament of armored vehicles is one of the tasks for specialists of SKBM [Special Design Bureau of Machine-Building] at present," according to a statement from High Precision Systems, a subsidiary of the state-owned military conglomerate Rostec, to Russian news agency TASS. Rostec previously announced plans to integrate drone countermeasures on light armored platforms, as well as the addition of first-person view drones to assist in reconnaissance and live surveillance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company's press office added that "draft organizational decisions and a schedule of joint work for integrating mini-UAVs into the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle" are still in the works, per the TASS report published in August. "Drones are planned to be introduced into the design documentation of armored vehicles after the results of type testing," according to the statement. Read the original article on Business Insider Dec. 30DALLAS TWP. Presidential historian Larry Cook on Monday said when he hear that former President Jimmy Carter had passed, he and his wife, Diane, lost a true friend. "We will always remember President Carter and Rosalynn as wonderful friends," Cook said. "They were friends like no other." "Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old," the Associated Press wrote Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, roughly 22 months after entering hospice care, at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023, spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said." Larry and Diane Cook are waiting to see which service they will be attending for President Carter. "We would like him and Mrs. Carter to be remembered as the great humanitarians that they were, " Cook said. "They both will go down in history as two of the greatest humanitarians the world has ever seen and they will be remembered forever around the world for all their work." On a personal note, the Cooks said they will always remember the genuine friendship they shared with the Carters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They were just great people," Cook said. "When President Carter learned that I was a Presidential history buff, he was pleased and urged me to do even more research and collecting." Cook said as soon as the news came out that the former president had passed, his phone started ringing. "We knew the phone call was coming," Diane Cook said. "You always think you're prepared, but you never are. Our relationship with the Carters was so special we will cherish our times with them forever." The Cooks said that former President Carter will be welcomed to heaven by his wife "into eternal peace." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They are together again," the Cooks said. Larry Cook said in 2015 that former President Carter stayed at their house. He said it was after Carter was diagnosed with cancer. "I remember him telling us that he thought he had about one month to live," Cook said. "He said he looked at that prospect as a new adventure. He said he was not afraid to die because of his strong faith. He was never afraid of death he was such a man of faith." The Cooks said they will travel to wherever Carter's service will be held to pay their final respects. They said they plan to visit Plains, GA, to visit with Carter family members there at some point ad also to visit with the many friends they have there as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cooks attended Mrs. Carter's state funeral service in Atlanta and then went to Plains, GA, for another service. "We've been texting Carter family members and friends in Georgia and across the country since we received the news on Sunday," Cook said. "President Carter always told us we were his favorite people from Pennsylvania and that meant a lot to us." Cook said he and his wife first met the Carters in 2004. He said he had never met a U.S. President before and Diane surprised him with a trip to Plains, GA. "Somebody told us that if you want to meet a President, go to Plains and you will meet Jimmy Carter," Cook said. "So we went there and we attended church and President Carter was teaching Sunday school. He welcomed us and we became instant friends. That trip changed our lives forever." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frequent visits to NEPA When President Carter celebrated his 100th birthday on Oct. 1, the Cooks offered heartfelt comments about the former President and the bond between them. "He is literally a man of 100 years of history," Cook said of Carter. "He made history on the day he was born at the small hospital in Plains, Georgia. He was the first president born in a hospital, and exactly 100 years later, he's made history again. In those 100 years, he has made history and achievements his entire life as the only president to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Gov. of Georgia, President of the U.S., co- founder of The Carter Center, as well as their involvement with Habitat for Humanity, just to name a few." Over the 20-plus years of friendship, Cook said he and Diane have been with the Carters dozens of times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Most years we would see them three to four times a year," Cook said. "Diane and I were very excited about President Carter reaching the milestone birthday of 100 years. He has been the longest living president for a few years and is the only president to reach 100." On a personal note, Cook said President Carter and Rosalynn have been great friends to the Cooks over many years, and the memories they have are priceless. "Among some of our favorite memories are the times that they came here to Plains and Dallas to visit us," Cook said. "The influences that they have had on our lives are tremendous. For example, their encouragement led me to become a full time Presidential Historian. The examples that they have demonstrated in their lives encouraged those around them to live a better and more charitable life." Cook said he is often asked to describe Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Even though he is a man with 100 years of history and amazing accomplishments, the description is easy he was a man of faith and principles," Cook said. "One of President Carter's famous quotes was, 'My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference.'" In 2013, President Carter and Rosalynn spoke at the Wyoming Monument. Carter was so fascinated by the story of the Battle of Wyoming, he painted a picture of the monument. President Carter returned back to Wyoming Valley, alone, in 2015 for yet another fundraiser, this time staying at the Cooks' residence. Mrs. Carter was ill at the time and couldn't travel to Pennsylvania. "It was so neat," Diane recalled in a Times Leader story. "We dined at the Mary Stegmaier Mansion and then afterwards we came back home and President Carter needed a snack so he had cheese and crackers and a Coke Zero." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last two decades of traveling to Plains, Georgia, the Cooks enjoyed a great relationship with the Carter, along with the stories and memories they hold. "President Carter had us down to Plains for an event and he was introducing us and he said, 'Larry and Diane are confused as to which Plains they live in,'" Larry reminisced. In 2015, Carter was in Wilkes-Barre to help raise money for the Plains Better Hometown Project in Georgia. Carter attended a dinner at the Mary Stegmaier Mansion where he greeted about 64 attendees and posed for pictures. Carter offered remarks to the crowd and an auction was held featuring several items signed by Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, who did not attend the event. "Hi everybody," Carter said when entering the building. "I have to go here and talk to some people, but I'll be right back. Don't leave." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter, with his trademark smile, said he always looked forward to visiting Pennsylvania. He often made fishing trips to Spruce Creek near State College and said Pennsylvania reminded him of home. He said the Cooks have helped greatly to raise funds for the project. "We've fixed up several buildings, including the schoolhouse where Rosalynn and I attended," Carter said. "You all should come down for a visit. We have about 634 residents now." Carter forged lasting relationships with Soviet Premier Leonid Brezhnev, the People's Republic of China and helped broker peace between Egypt and Israel. Carter served as president from 1977 to 1981. Carter, the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize recipient, talked about The Carter Center and its worldwide mission of promoting peace and fighting disease in developing countries. The Plains Better Hometown Program provides for the historic revitalization of Carter's hometown. Cook said many historic sites have been saved from further ruin until the U.S. National Park Service can take them over. Cook said the project also provides for the beautification of the town. "President Carter was very appreciative of the support our area had given to the project in his hometown," Cook said. Cook is a lifelong collector of historic presidential memorabilia and is a historian, specializing in the personal side of the presidency and lesser known facts. He and Diane founded the Plains Helping Plains Initiative dedicated to formulating and managing projects that benefit Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's hometown of Plains, Georgia. In 2011 he and his wife were made honorary citizens of Plains, Georgia, and were presented with proclamations by the Carters. Over the last two decades of traveling to Plains, Georgia, the Cooks have enjoyed a great relationship with the Carters along with the stories and memories they hold. Joe Mateo, former owner of the Frederick and Mary Stegmaier Mansions on South Franklin Street, said he was deeply saddened to hear of President Carter's passing. "He with us for his 90th birthday," Matteo said. "It was always an honor to have them as our guests we felt incredibly blessed." Matteo said he had many conversations with the Carters, who shared intimate stories. He said they always liked to talk about their work with Habitat for Humanity and stories about their days in the White House. It was always fascinating." Matteo said he will never forget the Carters telling about the time that Sergei Vasilyevich Rachmaninoff, a Russian composer, virtuoso pianist, and conductor, performed at the White House. "Being a musician myself, I found that story amazing," Matteo said. "Over the years, the Carters gave me autographed copies of books and they sent me many letters they are all priceless to me." Matteo said on one visit, the Carters entered through the service entrance. "I ran out and grabbed their luggage," Matteo said. "Mrs. Carter held my hand and the President walked with me on the other side. I'll never forget that." Wilkes-Barre Councilman and historian Tony Brooks also recalled meeting the Carters. "President Carter was a gracious, humble and true gentleman," Brooks said. "It was an honor to meet him at the Wyoming Monument and later have a conversation with him and First Lady Rosalynn Carter about local history at the Stegmaier Mansion. I was delighted when he asked about Wilkes-Barre's beehive." Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) There is a 24-hour window where love and celebrations coincide with a chilling statistic. The YWCA of Nashville & Middle Tennessee found the state ranks 7th overall in the nation when it comes to the number of women killed by men. During this time of year, that number has the potential to increase. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts As the clock ticks towards the New Year, a grim reality is often shadowed by celebrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who understand the cycle of domestic violence understand there are good times and there are bad times, President and CEO of the YWCA of Nashville & Middle Tennessee, Sharon Roberson, told News 2. The YWCA of Nashville & Middle Tennessee works to empower domestic violence survivors and offer them safety and resources to leave their abuser. According to the YWCA of Nashville & Middle Tennessee, the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) responds to a domestic violence call every 20 minutes. However, during this time of transition and celebration, there can be built-up emotions. Youre thinking this is a positive thing, but often, there is an escalation of violence because theres a lot of control associated with holidays, Roberson explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The holidays can often be triggering, forcing people under one roof for longer periods of time. This is why the National Domestic Violence Hotline experiences a high call volume during this time of year. Dont give up on your loved ones. Be there when they need you not to judge them because you may be the person they reach out to when they make the decision, Roberson said. Its very important that they have to make their own decisions to leave their abusive relationship. Its become so prevalent that along with the YWCA, Nashvilles Office of Family Safety released several videos over the holidays highlighting just how often this type of crime happens. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Here in Nashville about 50% of all violent crimes are domestic violence related, said a woman in one video. First whats really important for people to know, is just how common domestic violence is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The YWCA offers a 24-hour crisis and support helpline. You can call the Helpline at 800-334-4628, or text 615-983-5170. The Office of Family Safety is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Family Safety Center is also open 24/7 for Order of Protection, their number is 615-880-1100. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. ISLAMABAD, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan Yousuf Raza Gilani said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is playing a transformative role in the economic growth and technological advancement of Pakistan. Speaking at a ceremony at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday, Gilani urged the business community to fully utilize the potential of special economic zones established under CPEC to strengthen the nation's economy. Launched in 2013, the CPEC is a corridor linking the Gwadar Port in southwest Pakistan's Balochistan province with Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which highlights energy, transport, and industrial cooperation in the first phase, while in the new phase expands to fields of agriculture and livelihood, among others. Talking about the need for political stability in his country, Gilani called for collective efforts to create a favorable political environment. "Political stability is essential to unlocking Pakistan's economic potential," he noted. Stressing the significance of public-private partnerships, he said that cooperation between the two sectors is crucial for addressing economic challenges and fostering innovation. A Louisiana man who disappeared in Glynn County was found dead Monday morning, the Glynn County Police Department said. Carlos Eduardo Padilla, 24, was in Glynn County on a work assignment, police said. His family reported him as missing to GCPD on Thursday, Dec. 26. Police said family members told them that Padilla had been acting erratically, GCPD said in a news release. GCPD said it conducted ground searches, reviewed surveillance video and cell phone records, and interviewed his family, friends, and employer to find Padilla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padillas body was found at a property on Old Demere Road on St. Simons Island by workers from a pool cleaning service, the release said. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Police said in the release there is no known connection between Padilla and the residents of the home where he was found. Investigators said it is undetermined at this time if foul play is involved in Padillas death. An autopsy will be performed on his body by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact the GCPD Non-Emergency phone number at (912) 554-3645 or anonymously via Silent Witness at (912) 264-1333. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Idahos private schools are concentrated in urban areas, while theres just one private school or none in more than half of the states counties. And most private schools are religious, teeing up likely debates over whether the state should fund religious institutions, and if so, how much oversight the state should have. (Getty Images) This story was originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org on Dec. 30, 2024. This is the third in a series of stories about private school choice leading up the 2025 legislative session. Click here to read previous stories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Idaho lawmakers consider a policy change affecting public schools a detailed spreadsheet is usually nearby. When it comes to private schools, however, data is scanty. The state doesnt regulate private schooling, so it doesnt collect much information on private schools or their students. This information is in high demand as the Idaho Legislature is preparing to consider proposals that would send taxpayer funds to private school students to help them pay tuition and other expenses. What is private school choice? Click here for a guide on terms and ideas in the school choice movement. There is some publicly available data on private schools, and its likely to shape debates about who would benefit from a private school choice program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, Idahos private schools are concentrated in urban areas, while theres just one private school or none in more than half of the states counties. And most private schools are religious, teeing up likely debates over whether the state should fund religious institutions, and if so, how much oversight the state should have. How many private school students are in Idaho? Data on private school enrollment is sporadic and collected through voluntary reporting or crowd-sourced information. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) conducts voluntary surveys of private schools most recently during the 2021-22 school year and websites like Private School Review curate data submitted by school administrators and private school parents. A private school choice program would likely be eligible to home-schoolers as well. The U.S. Census estimates about 6% of Idahos school-age children are home-schooled. Idaho Education News next story on private school choice will focus on this category of students. The Idaho State Department of Education also maintains a list of private schools. And earlier this year, Bas van Doorn, a researcher for the Idaho State Board of Education, published a brief overview of private school data relying on similar sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These sources offer more of a sketch than a clear picture of private school enrollment, which shows: Idaho has between 117 and 155 primary and secondary private schools, These schools enroll between 16,843 and 22,271 students, Private school enrollment increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Today, private schoolers represent between 5% and 6% of school-age children. By comparison, 313,160 attended public schools this fall. Idahos public school enrollment has increased every year of the last decade, except for one 2020-21 while growth has slowed over the last year, with several of the largest school districts seeing enrollment dips. Leaders in the Boise and Nampa school districts have said aging populations and housing trends are causing their drop-offs, but transfers to private schools likely contributed as well. Nationally, private school enrollment has increased in recent years as public school enrollment has dipped. Education Week reported that the pandemic accelerated this pre-existing trend. Idaho Legislature Budget and Policy Analyst France Lippett gives a presentation to the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee at the State Capitol building on Jan. 23, 2024. JFAC co-chairs Sen. Scott Grow, R-Eagle, (center) and Rep. Wendy Horman, R-Idaho Falls (right) are leading the meeting. (Otto Kitsinger for Idaho Capital Sun) Forthcoming bill will target low-income families Lawmakers could consider a full menu of devices that deliver subsidies for private education: Vouchers, education savings accounts (ESAs), tax credits. And they could add restrictions, limiting eligibility based on income or disability, or open it up to anyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idaho Rep. Wendy Horman last legislative session proposed a tax credit program, and shes preparing to introduce a new version that targets low-income students. The Republican from Idaho Falls previously pitched a refundable tax credit worth $5,000 or $7,500 for special needs students covering private school tuition and other non-public school expenses. House Bill 447 made $40 million in tax credits universally accessible to non-public school students, reserved another $10 million for students from low-income families and capped spending at $50 million. Horman didnt share many details on the new bill, including the total cost, but said it will be more focused on low-income families who need options. A $50 million private school choice program would be a fraction of what the state spends on public schools, which was about $2.7 billion last fiscal year. And Horman noted public school spending has doubled since a decade ago, after a series of investments that she supported. There are still some students for whom the public system doesnt work, she said. Most people are still going to choose the public system, and I will continue my work of supporting the public system, but this is a bill about helping kids who cant afford other opportunities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But lawmakers could lift a spending cap or remove income restrictions in future legislative sessions. Horman, co-chair of the Legislatures budget committee, acknowledged these are possibilities, but she pointed to polling that shows public support for a tax credit available to non-public school families. Its a matter of priorities, she said. Revenues are still looking strong for IdahoTo me, its impossible to put a price tag on the value of a child being successful in getting an education that works best for them. Rod Gramer is the former CEO of Idaho Business for Education and one of the states most vocal opponents of private school tuition subsidies. After studying similar programs in other states, he estimates that a universal program in Idaho could cost up to $300 million, and universal eligibility is likely the goal of advocacy groups and lobbyists pushing for private school choice in Idaho. Rod Gramer is the former president and CEO of Idaho Business for Education. (Courtesy of Idaho Business for Education) Theyll just keep hammering until they get universal vouchers with no sideboards, no income limit, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gramer pointed to Arizona, where lawmakers lifted all restrictions on ESAs in 2022. The universal program has been popular but costly amid a budget deficit spurred by tax cuts. EdNews reported last week that the state is spending $800 million on the ESAs, well beyond initial projections, and theyre expected to reach $912 million next year. Arizona has about three times as many school-age children as Idaho. Former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, who signed the universal expansion into law, is scheduled to appear at a news conference next month at the Idaho Statehouse, where the Mountain States Policy Center is debuting a bill. Following Arizonas lead would threaten Idahos budget, and ultimately its ability to fund public schools, Gramer argues. This is just common senseEvery state has just so much money to go around. Where are private schools located? Most of Idahos private schools are concentrated in urban areas. Ada, Canyon and Kootenai are home to 65% of the states private school students compared to 56% of Idahos overall population, according to an EdNews analysis of Private School Reviews data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cole Valley Christian Schools is Idahos largest private school with about 1,400 students across campuses in Boise and Meridian. Enrollment has doubled the last four years, according to superintendent Allen Howlett. Howlett credits much of the rapid growth to new families moving in from out of state, while a minority have transferred from public schools in the area. School leaders are now raising donations for a new $110 million, consolidated campus that will add capacity for 400 students. BoiseDev and the Idaho Statesman first reported the plans. Meanwhile, Howlett is part of a coalition of private school leaders thats urging state lawmakers to adopt a private school choice program. Howlett said he doesnt know whether it would quickly fill the seats at the new campus, and full financing for construction is years away. But he believes the state aid would help his neediest families, and it would boost competition between private schools and public schools, leading to better performance across the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am in favor of competition, period, he said. Everything that I see that is positive about our community, our society, competition is one of the things that drives excellence. Studies on whether tuition subsidies lead to better academic performance in private schools have produced mixed results, Education Week reported. But research suggests that a competitive education market improves public school students performance. Meanwhile, 17 of Idahos 44 counties dont have a private school and nine counties have just one. Plenty of rural students are home-schooled, and theyd have access to state funds for micro-schools, Horman noted. This would be a continued investment in students in Idaho, no matter where theyre learning, whether thats Sandpoint or Boise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But critics argue that taxpayers shouldnt have to subsidize private schools without having access to them. Quinn Perry, policy and government affairs director for the Idaho School Boards Association, noted that most recipients of these entitlement programs in other states already attended private schools. Thats been the case in Arizona as well as Florida, Iowa, New Hampshire and Ohio, where lawmakers have recently enacted private school choice programs or expanded eligibility for existing ones. Rural taxpayers are saying Were not going to foot the bill for kids in Boise to go to private school,' Perry said. Additionally, rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to funding public schools, said an analysis by the Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy. Compared to urban school districts with more robust tax bases, rural school districts have limited local resources to lean on and rely for heavily on state funding. In other words, if the state tightens spending on public schools in favor of private education, rural school districts will be the first to feel it. While the negative financial consequences of voucher programs are felt statewide, rural communities are hit especially hard, the analysis said. How many private schools are religious? Nearly two in three private schools in Idaho are religious, according to van Doorns analysis for the State Board. Most are Protestant while one in five are Roman Catholic. Religious school leaders say faith-based education is a draw for families but not everyone can afford it. Tammy Emerich, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Boise, in March urged state lawmakers to support the tax credit bill. The Diocese has 14 schools with nearly 4,000 students across the state, she said, and 10 of these schools qualify for federal services targeting low income families. The reality for families is that public school is not the perfect fit for every child, Emerich told the House Revenue and Taxation Committee. Many of our parents are making huge financial sacrifices to send their children to a school that aligns with their values. But the prospect of sending public funds to religious schools has led to unease on both sides of the debate over private school choice. Opponents argue it entangles the government with religious institutions in violation of longstanding church-state barriers. Framers of the Idaho Constitution prohibited taxpayer funds from benefitting religious schools in two different sections of the 1890 document, Gramer noted. They were very clear, he said. Idaho wouldnt be alone in financing religious education, however. A nationwide uptick in new tuition subsidy programs followed a series of U.S. Supreme Court rulings that said states giving money to private schools couldnt exclude religious schools. An analysis by the Washington Post this summer found that between 82% and 98% of private school vouchers and ESA funds have gone to religious schools in Ohio, Indiana, Arizona, Florida and Wisconsin. Some Christian school leaders, meanwhile, are wary of new regulations that could come with the public funds. Idahos religious schools have long enjoyed the freedom to teach, test and select students on their own terms, but private school choice proposals in the past have failed amid calls for more oversight and accountability. Cole Valley Christian mostly follows the Idaho Department of Educations content standards, Howlett said. But it diverges when the standards are in contradiction to our biblical values. The school also doesnt admit students from families without at least one Bible-believing Christian parent. Many of our school boards and parents would not support something that would jeopardize our autonomy, Howlett said. A handful of states require that private schools report testing results as part of their private school choice programs. A recently enacted tax credit scholarship in Arkansas, for instance, requires that schools receiving the money administer a nationally recognized norm-referenced test. HB 447 didnt include a similar provision measuring academic progress, and Horman declined to say whether she added one to her new proposal. Im going to defer answering that question, she said. I will say that there is strong accountability in the bill for use of the money. Howlett said he wouldnt oppose an assessment, as long as schools could choose the test, but anything that would tell us what we have to teach and how we teach it is a potential dealbreaker for Christian schools. Parents hold private school leaders accountable, he said. If they dont feel like were meeting the needs of their kids or meeting their expectations, they take their money and go. How much does private school cost? Private school tuition in Idaho can range from a couple thousands dollars to upward of $30,000 at Sun Valley Community School. Many private schools require an application followed by a screening such as an interview with school officials and the parents and/or student. Idahos Catholic schools require an application along with a placement exam. The average cost of K-8 tuition in Idaho Catholic schools, excluding mandatory fees, is between $4,448 and $5,657 per year, according to rates posted on the schools websites. And tuition at Bishop Kelly High School is between $9,410 and $10,210. Rates are lower for enrollees who are active parishioners. Catholic schools offer financial aid based on need, which is common among private schools across the state. At Cole Valley Christian Schools, where K-12 tuition ranges from $7,330 to $10,340, depending on grade level, about 10% of students receive assistance, according to superintendent Allen Howlett. Heres a sampling of private schools, along with their admissions procedures, enrollment, religious affiliation and tuition, excluding mandatory fees: Cole Valley Christian Schools (Meridian, Boise) Enrollment: 1,400 Tuition: $7,330 to $10,340 Admissions procedure: Application, assessment test, screening Religious affiliation: Christian Bishop Kelly High School (Boise) Enrollment: 900+ Tuition: $9,410 to $10,210 Admissions procedure: Application, placement exam Religious affiliation: Catholic Nampa Christian Schools Enrollment: 900+ Tuition: $5,500 to $8,975 Admissions procedure: Application, screening Religious affiliation: Christian Genesis Preparatory Academy (Post Falls) Enrollment: 560 Tuition: $4,950 to $7,500 Admissions procedure: Application, screening Religious affiliation: Christian Watersprings School (Idaho Falls) Enrollment: 400+ Tuition: $5,505 to $7,075 Admissions procedure: Application, screening Religious affiliation: Christian Innovate Academy and Preparatory School (Eagle) Enrollment: 300+ Tuition: $8,590 to $12,050 Admissions procedure: Application, screening Religious affiliation: Nonsectarian Holy Family Catholic School (Coeur dAlene) Enrollment: 225 Tuition: $7,030 to $7,830 Admissions procedure: Application, placement exam Religious affiliation: Catholic SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Maersk is sending a message to customers ahead of a possible second strike at the East and Gulf Coast portspick up your cargo before Jan. 15. The container shipping giant said in a Tuesday advisory that it strongly encourages customers to retrieve their loaded containers from the ports ahead of the contract expiration date, as well as return all empty containers to the gateways. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This proactive measure will help mitigate any potential disruptions at the terminals, said Maersk in the update. Our teams are actively developing contingency plans to minimize the impact should a labor disruption occur. The International Longshoremens Association (ILA) has maintained that it will go on strike for a second time in more than three months after walking away from negotiations in November. The ILA went on strike for three days from Oct. 1-3 before coming to an agreement on a 61.5 percent wage increase spread over six years. The 45,000-member union has been unable to agree with its employers, the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), on the future of automation at the ports. The ILA has sought a total ban on automation over concerns that the technology will eliminate union jobs on the docks, while the USMX has argued that keeping current automation language in its contract is pivotal to port modernization. According to Maersk, a USMX member, the situation remains unchanged, and we continue to monitor developments closely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ocean carrier said the contract negotiations have had no new developments since its last communication on Dec. 19. At the time, Maersk said the situation remained dynamic, but the possibility of a strike increases each day that passes without a settled contract. Earlier this month, the ILA got its biggest vote of confidence yet when President-elect Donald Trump met with union brass and voiced his support for the dockworkers in the negotiations. Trump took their side on automation, saying the money saved from the port technology is nowhere near the distress, hurt and harm it causes for American Workers, in this case, our Longshoremen. Like President Joe Biden before him, Trump took a pro-U.S. stance against the USMX as well, calling out the alliances mostly foreign companies for generating record profits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An ILA strike could take place mere days before Trumps inauguration as commander-in-chief on Jan. 20. Given Trumps comments, it appears unlikely that the former and future president would invoke the Taft-Hartley Act, which would shoot down a strike for 80 days, and extend the window for the talks. Maersk is the only major carrier that has updated its customers since Christmas. Hapag-Lloyd last gave a public update on Dec. 19, while CMA CGM gave a similar update on Dec. 13. As uncertainty about the ports escalates closer to the Jan. 15 contract expiration date and Trumps inauguration, December is forecast to see 2.14 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) enter the U.S., which would be a 14.4 percent increase over the year prior, according to the Global Port Tracker from the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. That would eclipse the December record of 2.11 million TEUs of inbound cargo volume in to close out 2020, further illustrating importers push to front-load more goods into the U.S. ahead of possible disruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ocean spot freight rates for cargo entering the U.S. have increased in kind. According to Drewrys World Container Index (WCI) as of Dec. 19, the average container price across eight major trade lanes was $3,803 per TEU, an increase 8 percent from the week prior. But by far the biggest increases came on the Asia-to-U.S. routes, effectively keeping the wider WCI afloat. Cargo from Shanghai to New York saw a 17 percent jump to $6,074 per TEU, while containers headed to Los Angeles from Shanghai soared an even higher 26 percent to $4,499 per TEU. When the most recent rates were released on Dec. 19, the maritime consultancy mirrored thoughts by many throughout the ocean freight industry, saying it expected an increase in rates on the trans-Pacific trade in the week ahead driven by front-loading ahead of the looming ILA port strike in January 2025 and the anticipated tariff hikes under the incoming Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drewry did not release data on Dec. 26 for Christmas week, but is expected to release its first WCI for 2025 on Thursday. On top of likely freight rate increases, container shipping firms will be commanding extra fees. Both Hapag-Lloyd and ZIM are preparing for a second ILA strike by tacking on surcharges for imports entering the East and Gulf Coast ports. MAGEE, Miss. (WJTV) Magee police arrested a student and are searching for other suspects who fled from an apartment complex. Police said they responded to a report of multiple individuals armed with guns at Park Place Apartments just before 5:30 p.m. on Monday, December 30. When they arrived, the officers found a group of male suspects standing between two buildings. Two Vicksburg teens charged with assaulting stepfather Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said they suspects ran away into a wooded area and across buildings. During the chase, officers said they saw two individuals carrying firearms. After the chase, one suspect, who was identified as a Magee High School student, was arrested. Police said the student was in possession of 59 grams of marijuana and two scales. They said the student cooperated with officers and led them to a location where a discarded weapon was recovered on the playground near Park Place Apartments. Magee police arrested a student and are searching for other suspects who fled from an apartment complex. (Courtesy: Magee Police Dept.) Magee police arrested a student and are searching for other suspects who fled from an apartment complex. (Courtesy: Magee Police Dept.) Officers are still working to identify the other suspects. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. CHICAGO A man arrested Christmas Eve in connection with a burglary and mail theft from a West Loop condominium is a repeat offender who failed to show up for court dates following a June arrest, a statement from the United States Police Inspection Service said. Matthew Hutcheson, 33, of Chicago, was arrested in the Loop after being identified as a suspect in an August burglary and mail theft from a building on the 400 block of North Carpenter Street, the release said. The Cook County States Attorneys Office charged him with one felony count of burglary, one felony count of possession of burglary tools, one felony count of possession of fraudulent identification, and one misdemeanor count of resisting a police officer. Hutcheson was known to authorities, having previously been arrested in June and charged with possessing fraudulent identification and burglary tools, including five counterfeit USPS postal keys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He failed to appear in court on those charges, the USPIS said. Anyone who feels they may be the victim of mail theft is urged to contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 or online at www.uspis.gov/report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. OTTAWA With a majority of his caucus now calling on him to resign, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is on a ski holiday, reflecting on whether to stay or go. Trudeau is way down in the polls and facing challenges from within his party about whether he's the right leader to unite Canadians. His decision comes as Canada braces for a tariff war when Donald Trump returns to the White House in three weeks. Canadians will head to the polls in 2025, a federal election that could be triggered in late January if Trudeau's foes topple the minority government when the House returns from break. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Justin Trudeau no longer has the support of caucus and to maintain some dignity he should immediately tender his resignation, Calgary lawmaker George Chahal wrote in a Dec. 27 letter to the caucus. The missive follows a recent virtual meeting during which 51 Liberal members of Parliament from Ontario discussed Trudeaus leadership. After the gathering, the partys largest caucus group relayed a message to the prime minister: Resign. Weve reached a breaking point, said one Liberal who attended the meeting, and was granted anonymity to speak freely. Theres a critical mass now that has been reached and that was not in place before. For a year Trudeau has faced calls to step down from the party hes led since 2013. Demands intensified after the explosive exit of Chrystia Freeland earlier this month. Trudeaus long-time ally quit as deputy prime minister and head of finance citing tension between their offices over how to handle Trumps tariff threat along with a domestic holiday tax break. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canadas prime minister has also been abandoned by his Atlantic caucus, a group Trudeaus team considered vital to any hopes it had of winning a fourth term. The Atlantic Liberals now say its in the best interest of the prime minister to resign. The lawmakers no longer believe Trudeau can beat Pierre Poilievre, a populist conservative who has made massive inroads with Canadians by capitalizing off of a housing and affordability crisis with simple slogans that promise change. They also warn that Canada could be catapulted toward instability if Trump makes good on his Day 1 promise to slap a 25 percent tariff on all Canadian goods. Time is of the essence, and our Caucus is of the view that it is not tenable for you to remain as the Leader, and that we need to allow for the necessary conversations on transition to take place, Atlantic Caucus chair Kody Blois wrote to the prime minister on Dec. 23. A senior Liberal source, who was granted anonymity to speak freely, said the letters wont rush Trudeaus reflection. The prime minister is with his family on a British Columbia ski vacation and expected to remain out of office until Jan. 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Prime Ministers Office did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Liberal caucus members expect an answer when Trudeau lands back in Ottawa. Some want an emergency meeting to hear directly from their boss. Others say they wont run again if he sticks around. There is no mechanism within the party to turf Trudeau, so its a decision hell have to make on his own. If he decides to step down, the Liberal Party constitution states that its board would select an interim leader. His thinking right now is less about his political legacy, the senior Liberal source said, and more about leaving the party in the best shape as possible and ensuring theres a plan in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau was presented with data on his partys fortunes in early December before Freeland resigned. The prime ministers inner circle saw a pathway to a minority government win based on strong voter turnout in Quebec, shoring up Atlantic caucus support, and on appealing to Canadians through kitchen-table economics. Chair of the Quebec caucus, Stephane Lauzon, wouldnt comment on reports that hes been instructed to inform Trudeau that Liberal lawmakers in his province want him gone. No letter has been sent to the Prime Minister from the Quebec caucus. Unfortunately, what happens in the Quebec caucus stays in the caucus, Lauzon said in a statement to POLITICO. Trudeau continues to bring in more money through fundraising than any other Liberal MP a calculation that may be fueling his indecision, the senior source said. There is no obvious choice to replace him as leader. Many Canadians would be unable to recognize other possible contenders including Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly or Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some observers say Freeland wants Trudeaus job. At least one lawmaker is publicly touting the former journalists exceptional political acumen and encouraging a leadership bid. Whether by design or circumstance, she had emerged as a credible and stable alternative to your leadership, Liberal MP Chandra Arya wrote in a letter to Trudeau. Despite your low approval ratings, my support for you stemmed from the lack of a viable and reassuring alternative. Chrystia has now filled that void. An 18-year-old died this weekend after crashing his motorcycle into a pickup truck, according to the Greece Police Department. READ MORE: https://www.rochesterfirst.com/greece/hilton-man-23-identified-as-motorcyclist-in-fatal-greece-crash/ Editors note: Greece Police Department sent out an updated release, correcting the mans age. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) An 18-year-old died this weekend after crashing his motorcycle into a pickup truck, according to the Greece Police Department. Motorcyclist dead after Greece crash Officers on Monday identified the motorcyclist as Gianni Oswald, 18. According to police, he was riding his black 2009 Honda Sport motorcycle east down West Ridge Road at a high rate of speed and weaving through traffic Saturday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police stated that security footage of the incident captured Oswald gaining speed after passing a Greece Police vehicle responding to an emergency before he ran through a red light the intersection at Long Pond Road and crashed into the pickup truck. A motorcycle lying on its side at the intersection of Long Pond Road and West Ridge Road in Greece. (WROC/Melanie Sosa.) Oswald was taken to the hospital where he later died. Loved ones told News 8 Monday night that he was a recent graduate of Brockport High School. The driver of the truck was not hurt, according to police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. A man is facing charges after he allegedly burglarized a church in the City of Butler. Butler City police said St. Pauls Church on McKean Street was burglarized in the early morning hours of Dec. 30. The suspect was identified as Joseph Fee III. Detectives saw video of him entering the church and using items in the building to break open the donation box. Police said Fee took around $200-$300. Fee is charged with burglary, institutional vandalism, intentional desecration of a venerated object and theft. He is being held in the Butler County Jail. Anyone with any further information is asked to call the Butler City police. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW CANAL FULTON, Ohio (WJW) Dramatic video released by the Lawrence Township Police Department shows intense flames burning through the cabin of a pickup truck after a suspect allegedly set fire to the vehicle using a Molotov cocktail. The incident occurred on Dec. 20 on the 6200 block of Erie Avenue. When I arrived on scene there was a Ford F-150 pickup, black smoke and flames in the cabin area, Lawrence Township police officer Scott Jones said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I-Team: Blocking Browns move, city intends to enforce Modell Law Jones, among the first on the scene, began questioning residents and neighbors to find out what happened. Do you know of anyone who would do something like that? Youre not feuding with somebody? he asked on the body camera footage. The victims told police they had no idea why this would happen. Witnesses recalled seeing a black truck at the scene. The only person we know with a black truck is Bradley Stutzman, one of the victims said on body camera. Police moved quickly to apprehend the suspect. I would say within 30 minutes, Jones said. The victim finally decided he believed he had somebody that may have done it. He gave us a description of the truck and where he could be found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stutzman was arrested at his residence on North 4th Street in Clifton. Police questioned Stutzman about the incident. We know that you were at the house on Erie, and you were in your black truck, you pulled in, went out, bashed the passenger side window out, possibly had a rifle, waving it around, Jones said on body camera during the interrogation. Went back to your truck, grabbed some kind of Molotov cocktail and threw it in there, set it on fire and left. Fugitive fatally shot at N. Canton hotel in November was suspect in 1981 Mansfield homicide Stutzman would not provide details to investigators, but is now facing charges for arson, criminal damaging and destruction of property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was being held at the Stark County jail but has since posted bond. A pretrial hearing was held on Monday. Something like this in this township, we take it very seriously, Jones said. And wed like to thank the witnesses with the very detailed information that they gave us. We have a great community here. New Franklin police are also openly investigating another incident involving a Molotov cocktail being thrown at a residence on Dec. 20, occurring within an hour of the pickup being torched in Canal Fulton. Gunshots were also fired into the residence in New Franklin. Evidence is being processed by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The incendiary device did not combust and no one was hurt, according to New Franklin Police Chief Daniel Bickett. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. NANNING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a key logistics network connecting China's western regions to global markets -- the ASEAN market in particular -- has surpassed a milestone volume of 10,000 rail-sea intermodal train journeys this year, according to Beibu Gulf Port Group. On Monday morning, a cargo train carrying 90 containers departed from the Qinzhou railway container center station in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, bound for Chongqing, an inland metropolis in southwestern China. The departure marked the first time that the annual train volume has reached 10,000 on the corridor, commonly known as the new western land-sea corridor, reflecting a 5.1 percent year-on-year increase, the company said. In September 2017, the southward corridor from Chongqing to Singapore via Guizhou Province and Guangxi -- the precursor to the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor -- was debuted. By August 2019, a plan from the National Development and Reform Commission elevated the corridor from a local initiative to a strategic national project. Anchored in Chongqing and supported by critical nodes in key provincial-level regions of western China, the corridor utilizes a blend of rail, sea and road transportation to connect China with global destinations via coastal and border ports in Guangxi and Yunnan Province. The corridor's intermodal rail-sea service has seen a remarkable rise in train journey volumes, expanding from 178 trains in its first year to over 10,000 this year. A key highlight of this year has been the surge in foreign trade with RCEP countries. The corridor facilitated the transportation of 87,846 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to and from RCEP member countries, a 32 percent year-on-year increase. Goods transported via the corridor have expanded to 1,166 categories. The cargo service now covers 73 domestic cities and connects to 542 ports in 125 countries and regions globally. "The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor has transformed from a single route into a network, linking diverse cultures and economies," said Lei Xiaohua, a researcher at the Guangxi Academy of Social Sciences. "It also offers countries along the corridor an efficient gateway to the global industrial chain." A man arrested in connection to a deadly stabbing at a Springfield Meijer parking lot has been formally charged. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] >>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Man arrested in connection to deadly stabbing in Meijer parking lot A grand jury has indicted Deondrae Poole on one count of aggravated murder, three counts of murder, one count of felonious assault, and two counts of aggravated robbery, according to Clark County Common Pleas Court Documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As previously reported by News Center 7, Springfield officers arrested Poole on Dec. 19 in connection to a stabbing. The charges stem from a stabbing on Dec. 3 in the parking lot at the Meijer on Hillcrest Avenue in Springfield. TRENDING STORIES: When police arrived on the scene, they found Darrin Pollock in a grassy area near the docking area with a single stab wound to his chest. He was transported to Springfield Regional Medical Center, where he later died. The two men appeared to be fighting over a backpack just before the stabbing, court documents indicated. Poole is scheduled to be back in court later this week. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A man was caught on surveillance video forcefully slamming his small dog dressed in a red, green and white holiday-themed sweater onto a concrete floor outside a Kissimmee apartment, according to Osceola Sheriff Marcos Lopez. Marco Aurelio Zuluaga, 28, of Coral Springs, was arrested Thursday on one charge of animal cruelty against Lilly, a 1-year-old mini Australian shepherd. He was released from jail on $5,000 bond, according to court records. He is not allowed to have animals in his possession. During a news conference Monday afternoon, Lopez said what Zuluaga did breaks our hearts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The amount of force he uses is just disgusting and disturbing and unacceptable and its a miracle that he didnt kill this dog, Lopez said. You know, animals have feelings, and they should never be treated like this. Zuluaga was visiting his cousin at Jamison Apartments for the holiday, according to his arrest warrant affidavit. Apartment surveillance footage from around 8:30 a.m. Thursday shows Zuluaga exit the apartment into a hallway with Lilly in his arms, the affidavit said. He briefly walks out of view before reappearing to swing Lilly from his chest, over his shoulder and forcefully toward the concrete floor, after which she ran away as fast as she could, as seen in video during the news conference. According to the affidavit, the impact caused her to be bounced off of the concrete and yelp in agony. Lopez said Zuluaga slammed the dog against the floor so hard he appeared to injure his shoulder. The sheriffs office was contacted about an animal complaint and arrived at the apartment, after which management gave deputies access to surveillance footage, the affidavit said. Contact was made with the cousin, who gave deputies Zuluagas name, the affidavit stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They contacted Zuluaga and visually confirmed he and the dog were the ones from the video, the affidavit said. Lopez said Zuluaga told deputies he did it because Lilly urinated and defecated on the apartment rug. Lopez said Lilly was taken to Osceola County Animal Control and a veterinarian for treatment. She had a dilated pupil in her left eye and deep tissue bruising on her underbelly but is undergoing treatment and expected to recover. He said she will be placed for adoption with a new owner. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A man was arrested Saturday after he was allegedly found to be in possession of child pornography at the Peace Bridge, the Buffalo Police Department announced. Arman Farmani, 38, of Ontario, was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection around 7:15 p.m. Saturday. A search found that the dual citizen of Canada and Iran was in possession of child pornography, police said. He was charged with one count of possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. A mans body was found in the bushes near the Boca Plaza hotel late Monday afternoon, police say. Just before 5 p.m., Boca Raton Police responded to a report of a dead man in the bushes at 2901 Federal Highway, the address of the hotel, which is located near the Intracoastal Waterway. The death appears suspicious in nature, police said in a statement on social media, though the statement also said there is no threat to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police did not explain why they believe there is no threat to the public. The statement did not identify the man. This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox. A man will face charges in connection to the deadly shooting of a 24-year-old in Lowell late Monday night, the district attorneys office announced Tuesday. Bravindah Mawanda, 20, of Lowell is accused of shooting and killing Nikhl Israni while the two men sat in the victims car in the area of Middlesex and Maude Streets around 8:00 p.m., according to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan. The DAs office alleges that Mawanda shot Israni multiple times before exiting the car and running into his nearby home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israni was rushed to Lowell General Hospital where he was pronounced deceased, Ryan says. Police were able to identify Mawanda as the suspect and found a firearm matching the victims wounds, inside his home. Mawanda will be arraigned Tuesday morning in Lowell District Court. The DAs office did not announced the specific charges. This shooting is being investigated by Lowell Police, the Middlesex District Attorneys Office and Massachusetts State Police Detectives assigned to the District Attorneys Office. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Police in Orlando said a man is dead after an officer-involved shooting Monday night. The shooting happened around 9:15 p.m. on Shining Willow Terrace, not far from Evans High School. Officers said they responded to a home for reports of a domestic disturbance, and they were forced to shoot a man after he reached for a gun. Read: Boy hurt by crashing drone at holiday show in Orlando released from hospital, family says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said Timothy Woods was the man who was shot and killed by police. The Orlando Police Department is releasing details about the deceased suspect in last nights officer-involved shooting at 2818 Shining Willow Terrace. We can now share that the deceased is Timothy Woods (DOB: 02/08/1998). This is all the information we can release at this pic.twitter.com/jAEPWWNdNw Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) December 31, 2024 The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting, which is standard practice for officer-involved shootings. Channel 9 has a crew working to gather more details and will provide updates on Eyewitness News. Watch: Amid homelessness crisis, Christian Service Center rescues record number of people from homelessness Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A man was injured after being hit by a train on Fillmore Avenue on Tuesday morning, according to Buffalo police. Police responded to the area of 127 Fillmore around 11:20 a.m. Tuesday. The man had been hit by a train near the rear of the property. The victim was treated on site before being transported to ECMC for further treatment. Police are still on scene as of 12:25 p.m. The investigation will be conducted by CSX State investigators. Latest Local News Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A man is in the hospital after he was stabbed on East Main Street at midnight Tuesday. According to the Rochester Police Department, the man in his 30s was found in the 2000 block of E. Main St. with at least one stab wound in his upper body. The victim was taken to the hospital and is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. No suspects are in custody. The circumstances leading up to the stabbing are under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) A man who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a Northern California woman in what became widely known as the Gone Girl kidnapping has been charged with two 15-year-old home invasion sexual assaults, prosecutors announced Monday. Prosecutors allege Matthew Muller, 47, broke into a womans home in Mountain View, California, in September 2009, attacked her, tied her up and made her drink medications. He then told the woman in her 30s that he was going to rape her, but she convinced him not to, prosecutors said. Muller left after recommending the woman get a dog. The following month, prosecutors say he broke into a home in Palo Alto, California, bound and gagged a woman and forced her to drink Nyquil. He started assaulting the woman in her 30s, but she also convinced him to stop, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Muller has been charged with two felony counts of committing a sexual assault during a home invasion. The charges carry a possible sentence of life in prison. He is currently serving a 40-year prison term for the 2015 kidnapping. The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Our hope is that this nightmare is over. Mullers lawyer, public defender Agustin Arias, said they have no comment about the new charges. The new charges came after testing evidence based on a new lead, according to prosecutors. District attorney criminalists found Mullers DNA on straps he used to bind one of the victims, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Muller, a disbarred, Harvard-educated attorney, pleaded guilty to the 2015 kidnapping of Denise Huskins. He was also sentenced in 2022 to 31 years in state prison after pleading no contest to two counts of forcible rape of Huskins. Huskins was abducted by a masked intruder who broke into her boyfriends home in Vallejo, a city in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her boyfriend, Aaron Quinn, told detectives he woke up to a bright light on his face and that intruders had drugged, blindfolded and tied both of them up before kidnapping Huskins in the middle of the night. Quinn also said the kidnappers were demanding an $8,500 ransom. A Vallejo police detective interrogated Quinn for hours, at times suggesting he may have been involved in Huskins disappearance. Quinn took a polygraph test which an FBI agent told him he failed, the couple said later in a book about their ordeal. Huskins, who was 29 at the time, turned up unharmed two days later outside her fathers apartment in Huntington Beach, a city in Southern California, where she said she was dropped off. She reappeared just hours before the ransom was due. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That same day, police in Vallejo announced in a news conference that they had found no evidence of a kidnapping and accused Huskins and Quinn of faking the abduction, which spurred a massive search. After Huskins release, Vallejo police erroneously likened her kidnapping to the book and movie Gone Girl, in which a woman goes missing and then lies about being kidnapped when she reappears. Investigators dropped that theory after Muller was arrested by police in Dublin, California, for a similar home invasion. Authorities said they found a cellphone that they traced to Muller and a subsequent search of a car and home turned up evidence, including a computer Muller stole from Quinn, linking the disbarred attorney to the abduction. DENVER (KDVR) On Monday morning, a pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Interstate 70, southeast of Denver. The Colorado State Patrol said troopers responded to a report of a pedestrian hit by a vehicle on I-70 at milepost 349 at 1:14 a.m. The area is in between Agate and Limon in Elbert County. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Once on scene, troopers found a deceased male. According to the preliminary investigation, CSP said the man was in the westbound lanes when he was hit. It is currently unclear why the man was on the interstate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other cars or people were located at the scene, CSP said. Troopers did not release information on any suspects or suspect vehicles. Anyone who may have information on the hit-and-run is asked to call Trooper Chris Gonzales at 303-688-3115. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Beijing on Tuesday approved new regulations on autonomous vehicles, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, marking significant progress in advancing autonomous vehicle technologies in the Chinese capital. The regulations, passed by the Standing Committee of Beijing Municipal People's Congress, explicitly encourage and support policies and measures for technological innovation and industrial development in autonomous vehicles. The guidelines also cover areas such as infrastructure planning and construction, on-road traffic management and safety assurance, providing a clear regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles equipped with Level 3 and higher systems. In recent years, Beijing has emerged as a national leader in autonomous vehicle development. Since the launch of China's first high-level autonomous driving demonstration zone in September 2020, the city has successfully developed intelligent infrastructure across 600 square km. The capital is also home to leading companies in the field, including Baidu, Pony.ai and Neolix. A man charged in connection with the drive-by killings of a Massachusetts mother and her infant son in Connecticut opened fire over a $400 debt, according to a newly released arrest warrant. New details on a motive in the deadly double shooting were revealed Monday as Lance Morales, 23, of Waterbury, Connecticut, was ordered held on $5 million bail, the Associated Press reported. Morales is charged with two counts of murder, assault, and other crimes in the deaths of 20-year-old Jessiah Mercado and her 4-month-old boy, Messiah Diaz, both of Springfield, Massachusetts, in Hartford, Connecticut, on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In broad daylight, Morales pulled up next to a vehicle that Mercado and Diaz were riding in on New Britain Avenue and opened fire, according to police. Mercado warned Morales that her baby was with her, but he allegedly replied, I dont care, a witness quoted in the arrest warrant said, according to the AP report. The arrest warrant reportedly stated that Mercado was renting a Mazda SUV from Morales for $100 a day, however, she fell behind on the payments and owed him $400. A third shooting victim, a male in his 20s, suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound during the drive-by. The driver of the vehicle was uninjured. The Hartford Police Department announced days after the incident that U.S. Marshals found Morales in Puerto Rico and arrested him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morales lawyer on Monday told the court that his client could not afford to post the $5 million bail. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A man died Monday evening after he was struck by a train in Fresno. It happened around 6:16 p.m. near Shields Avenue and Van Ness Boulevard. Police said a man and a woman were walking on the tracks as the train approached. The man in his 20s was unable to move out of the way in time and was hit. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was not injured, police said. BNSF police are investigating the fatal collision. The suspect in a carjacking at the Canadian border that led to a high-speed chase across Whatcom County on Dec. 12 has been charged in Whatcom County. Shawn Bergstrom, 42, is accused of using a bladed weapon to steal a black Toyota pickup and ramming the vehicle into a car in the border line to enter the United States on Dec. 12, according to court documents. Authorities said the vehicle also nearly ran over Border Patrol officers near the crossing. Bergstrom is facing charges of second-degree assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a stolen vehicle, both class B felonies. He is also being charged with attempting to elude police, a class C felony, and hit and run of an attended vehicle, a gross misdemeanor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chase started at the border crossing near Blaine and tracked south on Interstate 5 all the way through Whatcom County, ending near the Bow Hill rest area in Skagit County. Troopers from Washington State Patrol stopped the vehicle by performing a PIT maneuver, causing it to crash into a ditch. A standoff ensued, and Bergstrom eventually threw a machete out of the vehicle. He then climbed out the vehicle and assumed a fetal position on the hood before being taken into custody. The vehicle was confirmed to be stolen from a business in Canada hours before the arrest, which was confirmed by the Royal Canadian Mountain Police, according to court documents. Bergstrom is listed in court documents as an unhoused individual from British Columbia. ATHENS, BRADFORD COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A man has been sentenced to a minimum of six years in state prison for possession of methamphetamine. Police say Cody James Blake, 38, was pulled over at a traffic stop in Athens Township in May of 2024 when his car was impounded and searched. Police say they found a lock box with around 44 grams of methamphetamine underneath the vehicle. Watch: Police smash window to arrest driver after chase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say they found an additional significant amount of methamphetamine in the corner of the holding cell Blake was in stuffed between a wooden bench and a piece of pulled-up carpet. Blake did confess to hiding the methamphetamine. The Bradford County District Attorneys office says Blake is facing a maximum of 12 years in state prison on the charges of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. (DURANGO, Colo.) A man has been sentenced in an attempted robbery that led to the victim, an elderly Navajo man, being shot and injured on the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Reservation. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado, on Aug. 24, 2023, 27-year-old Lovell Cassius Benallie shot an elderly Navajo man at the Ute Mountain Ute Travel Center after demanding the victims money. Benallie had traveled with a friend from New Mexico to the Ute Mountain Ute Casino, and after gambling, approached the victim as he was about to use the laundry facility. The Attorneys Office said Benallie approached the victim and demanded all his money while pointing a 9mm handgun at him. When the victim replied what money, Benallie aimed the gun at the victims leg and shot him before running from the scene. The victim was airlifted to a hospital in Grand Junction, and the Attorneys Office said he suffered serious and enduring injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Benallie had had several prior felony convictions, including a conviction for aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon in Farmington, New Mexico. This defendant coldly and callously shot a total stranger during an attempted robbery. Any such act of violence on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation gets the full attention of FBI Denver, said Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. On Friday, Dec. 20, the Attorneys Office announced that Benallie had been sentenced to a total of 166 months (almost 14 years) in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence on the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Reservation. The prison sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) One person was rescued from a house fire in Central Peoria after being trapped in the garage. The Peoria Fire Department was called to the scene of the house fire at 8:35 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at the 2800 block of North Rustic Ridge Drive, said Battalion Chief Tom Stimeling. When firefighters arrived, they noticed smoke coming from the homes roof. They started to search the home and found a man who was trapped in the garage. They got him out of the house and into the care of paramedics from Advanced Medical Transport, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peorias Fire Chief shares tips on fire safety Once the building was cleared, firefighters began to extinguish the fire while they also cut off gas and electricity to the house, Stimeling said. He also said the fire was ruled unintentional, but it is still under investigation. The damages to the house are estimated at $145,000 and the occupant of the home was released with no other injuries reported, Stimeling said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Authorities have identified a man accused in a downtown assault. Officers with the Charleston Police Department responded to a reported assault near King and Hutson Streets shortly after midnight on December 14. According to police, the victims said the suspect struck them with an unknown object after an argument. The victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an update Tuesday, police said the suspect was identified as 32-year-old Joseph Michael Whitehurst of Raleigh, North Carolina. He is being charged with two counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and possession of a knife during the commission of a violent crime. Whitehurst was taken into custody by the US Marshals Task Force in North Carolina and is awaiting extradition. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. CENTRAL TEXAS (FOX 44) Multiple agencies team up to rescue one man from an 18-wheeler rollover accident. The Bremond Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) responded to the accident on Monday. An 18-wheeler rolled over on Highway 46, with a person trapped inside of the vehicle. BVFD arrived on scene and found the person pinned by the steering wheel and the dash. The back of the cab was cut open to access the person, at which time the steering wheel and seat were cut out to help free the persons legs. The final cut was made on the persons boot so he could slip his foot out and be transferred to a backboard, and loaded onto a helicopter. (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) (Courtesy: Bremond Volunteer Fire Department) BVFD says this was a massive team effort. Agencies assisting with this rescue included the Bryan Fire Department, the Franklin Volunteer Fire Department, the Calvert Volunteer Fire Department, Robertson County EMS, Robertson County Emergency Management, BDS Towing & Recovery, the Robertson County Sheriffs Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. The U.S. attorney who has overseen the largest investigation in Department of Justice history is stepping down before Donald Trump can fire him. But far-right congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene says the resignation of Matthew Graves is not the end for him. The top federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C, has spearheaded the prosecution of hundreds of people in connection with the January 6 attack on the Capitol defendants Trump has promised to pardon as soon as he enters office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are about to take over and were going to be in charge, and he should pay for what hes done to these people, Greene told right-wing media network Real Americas Voice on Monday. He doesnt get to resign and run away, she added. He should be held accountable for the absolute misery and lives that have been destroyed from these January 6 defendants and their families. Were talking about marriages have been destroyed, families have been destroyed, careers have been destroyed, and these people have spent time years now in prison. More than 1,600 people have been charged in connection with a mobs assault on the Capitol fuelled by Trumps bogus narrative that the 2020 presidential election was rigged and stolen from him and are now awaiting potential pardons for alleged crimes that were live-streamed to millions of viewers. Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene says outgoing U.S. attorney Matthew Graves should pay for prosecuting January 6 rioters (Getty Images) Nearly 1,100 people have been sentenced for their crimes, including sentences handed down for the first-ever convictions for treason-related seditious conspiracy charges in decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly 600 people were charged with assaulting or obstructing law enforcement including nearly 200 people charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer. Defendants, many of whom have been banned from Washington, D.C., are also increasingly asking judges for permission to attend Trumps inauguration, while judges have quietly been raising alarms about looming pardons for some of the worst offenders. Graves announced plans to step down January 16, four days before Trump takes office. Because politically motivated violence and destruction rip at the fabric of our society, Mr. Graves made federally prosecuting such crimes a priority, the Justice Department said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene unsuccessfully tried to impeach Graves last year, echoing Trumps remarks about the agencys weaponization while accusing Graves of maliciously prosecuting rioters and refusing to go after real criminals. Greene protested the prison sentence of Steve Bannon on July 1 after he was found in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with subpoenas by the now-defunct House select committee that investigated the January 6 attack. (Getty Images) Greene has also protested the detentions of January 6 defendants locked up in a Washington jail, some of whom were so violent that their pretrial release would pose a danger to the public, according to federal prosecutors. One of those men, Shane Jenkins, hurled nine different objects at police officers, including a solid wooden desk drawer ... a flagpole, a metal walking stick, and a broken wooden pole with a spear-like point, according to court filings. Another man, Jonathan G. Mellis, used a large wooden stick like a sword and stabbed at the faces and heads of officers at least five times, violently striking some officers in the face, head, neck, and body area, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some engaged in violence, some fought with police, but at this point in time, they have served their time and are past that, Greene told Real Americas Voice. She also suggested that she would take aim at federal judges that harness the power of their benches in their courtrooms and gave horrific sentences for these people who did nothing but protest an election. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- On New Year's eve, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered his 2025 New Year message through China Media Group and the Internet. The following is the full text of the message: Greetings to everybody! Time flies fast, and the new year will be with us shortly. I extend my best wishes to you all from Beijing. In 2024, we have together journeyed through the four seasons. Together, we have experienced winds and rains and seen rainbows. Those touching and unforgettable moments have been like still frames showing how extraordinary a year we have had. We have proactively responded to the impacts of the changing environment at home and abroad. We have adopted a full range of policies to make solid gains in pursuing high-quality development. China's economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory, with its GDP for the year expected to pass the 130 trillion yuan mark. Grain output has surpassed 700 million tons, and China's bowls are now filled with more Chinese grain. Coordinated development across regions has gained stronger momentum, and mutually reinforcing advances have been made in both new urbanization and rural revitalization. Green and low-carbon development has been further enhanced. Indeed, a more beautiful China is unfolding before us. We have fostered new quality productive forces in light of actual conditions. New business sectors, forms and models have kept emerging. For the first time, China has produced more than 10 million new energy vehicles in a year. Breakthroughs have been made in integrated circuit, artificial intelligence, quantum communications and many other fields. Also for the first time, the Chang'e-6 lunar probe collected samples from the far side of the moon. The Mengxiang drilling vessel explored the mystery of the deep ocean. The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link now connects the two cities across the sea. The Antarctic Qinling Station is now in operation on the frozen continent. All this epitomizes the lofty spirit and dreams of the Chinese people to explore stars and oceans. This year, I have visited many places across the country and seen how our people enjoy their enriching lives. I saw the big, red Huaniu apples in Tianshui, Gansu and the fishing boats in Aojiao Village, Fujian loaded with their catches. I watched the millenium-old "Eastern Smile" in the Maiji Mountain Grottoes, and I learned more about good-neighborliness passed from generation to generation in Liuchixiang Alley. I enjoyed the hustle and bustle in Tianjin's Ancient Culture Street, and I saw how the people in Yinchuan's mixed-ethnic residential communities live together as one family. The concerns of the people about jobs and incomes, elderly and child care, education and medical services are always on my mind. This year, basic pension has been raised, and mortgage rates have dropped. Cross-province direct settlement of medical bills has been expanded, making it easier for people to seek medical treatment across the country. And consumer goods trade-in programs have improved people's lives... All these are real benefits to our people. In the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes raced to the top and achieved their best performance in Olympic Games held overseas, fully demonstrating the vigor and confidence of young Chinese. The PLA Navy and Air Force celebrated their 75th birthdays, and our servicemen and women are full of drive. When floods, typhoons and other natural disasters struck, members of the Communist Party of China and officials stepped forward to lead disaster relief efforts, and our people were of one mind and reached out to each other. People in all fields -- workers, builders and entrepreneurs, among others -- are working hard to fulfill their dreams. I presented awards to recipients of national medals and honorary titles. The honor belongs to them; it also belongs to every hard-working person who has lived up to their responsibilities. In a world of both transformation and turbulence, China, as a responsible major country, is actively promoting global governance reform and deepening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South. We are making deeper and more substantive advances in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. The Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation was a full success. We put forward China's vision at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, APEC, G20 and other bilateral and multilateral forums. We have contributed greatly to the maintenance of world peace and stability. We celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of New China. With deep affection, we looked back at the sea change that has taken place across China since the birth of the People's Republic. Nurtured by our 5,000-plus years of continuous civilization, our country, China, is engraved not only on the bottom of the ancient bronze ritual wine vessel of He Zun, but also in the heart of every Chinese. At its Third Plenary Session, the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China sounded a clarion call for further deepening all-round reform. We will march forward in great strides to advance reform and opening up as the trend of our times. We will surely embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization in the course of reform and opening up. In 2025, we will fully complete the 14th Five-Year Plan. We will implement more proactive and effective policies, pursue high-quality development as a top priority, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development. The Chinese economy now faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones. But we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident. Of all the jobs in front of us, the most important is to ensure a happy life for our people. Every family hopes that their children can have a good education, their seniors can enjoy good elderly services, and their youngsters can have more and better opportunities. These simple wishes are our people's aspirations for a better life. We should work together to steadily improve social undertakings and governance, build a harmonious and inclusive atmosphere, and settle real issues, big or small, for our people. We must bring more smiles to our people and greater warmth to their hearts. On the eve of the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland, I visited the city again, and I was gratified to see the new progress and changes there. We will unswervingly implement the policy of One Country, Two Systems to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Macao. We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us, and no one can ever stop China's reunification, a trend of the times. As changes unseen in a century accelerate across the world, it is important to rise above estrangement and conflict with a broad vision, and care for the future of humanity with great passion. China will work with all countries to promote friendship and cooperation, enhance mutual learning among different cultures, and build a community with a shared future for mankind. We must jointly create a better future for the world. Dreams and wishes may be far, but they can be fulfilled with dedicated pursuit. On the new journey of Chinese modernization, everyone is a key actor, every effort counts, and every ray of light shines. Splendor adorns our motherland, and starlight graces every home. Let us greet the new year with hope. May our great country enjoy harmony and prosperity! May all your dreams come true! May you all have a new year of happiness and peace! TROTWOOD, Ohio (WDTN) When Mary McDonald was sworn in as Montgomery County Commissioner Sunday, she made history as the first elected African-American to join the commission, and the first Republican to be on the board in nearly two decades. But the former mayor of Trotwood hopes her impact goes beyond skin and party. All of these years, weve not had the voice of a minority in place, said McDonald. I feel absolutely elated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bird flu detected in nearly 1M chickens in Darke County McDonalds nearly year-long journey to the commission began after losing her eight-year position as Trotwood mayor. Being a mayor, being a nonpartisan position, is the position that says its not about party, she said. And thats the same spirit that I plan on taking to Montgomery County Commission. After her loss, McDonald left the Democratic Party and was welcomed by the Republican Party, which asked her to run for the Montgomery County Commission Board. Complaints were filed by the county Democratic Party to the Ohio Secretary of State, suggesting that McDonald didnt follow the proper steps to run as a Republican in the race. But in the end, she was allowed to run for the position, and won. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Tom Young, first vice-chair of the Montgomery County Republican Party, said that regardless of party or race, McDonald is the one for the job. Prosecutors make case for keeping jurisdiction over Stephen Marlow She walked the walk and talked the talk and she gets it done, said Young. And Id never really perceived her as anything but a leader and a good person. Now Trotwood business owners like Leslie Garrison said they are excited to see how the former mayor transitions into power and represents the community. Having women of color being in these positions, whether or not people are like, oh, I want to be commissioner, and not just saying I may play a vital and important role in our society, said Garrison. That does make me proud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flood protection system activated along Miami River as rainfall continues McDonald said she plans to build relationships with the current commissioners, work on budgets to reprioritize social services boards, and continue work across party lines, all while hoping to inspire young people to accomplish their own historic wins. There are no limits to you, other than the limits you put on yourself, she added. McDonald will start as county commissioner on Friday, January 3rd, 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. In October 2023, Maryland Rep. Andy Harris saw values in newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson that matched his own. Harris, the states lone Republican in the congressional delegation, was optimistic and confident about the kind of leader he believed Johnson would be. At the top of the list was the Louisiana Republicans promise to bring up individual spending bills instead of large, jam-packed omnibus bills Congress had become known for. Those last-minute deals were kryptonite to fiscal conservatives who demanded more transparency and wanted voters to see how the government was spending their money. Hes exactly the kind of leader the House, Washington, and America needs in this time of national and global crisis, Harris said of Johnson at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A little over a year later, Harris is reconsidering whether the current leadership is what we need. Before the last couple of weeks, I was in his corner, but now we should consider whats the best path forward, Harris said Thursday on Fox Business. After a chaotic end to the legislative session before the holidays, Republicans are debating who should lead them as House speaker one of the most powerful political positions in Washington, D.C., and third in the presidential line of succession. Its also a role Harris could be groomed for as his influence grows in Congress. Harris represents Marylands 1st Congressional District, which includes the Eastern Shore, Harford County and part of Baltimore County. He is also the chair of the House Freedom Caucus, a powerful group of lawmakers who try to steer the Republican Party toward fiscal conservatism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The caucus frequently calls for reducing spending and the size of government, and its members have rejected bipartisan deals. Some members were among the eight lawmakers who ousted former Speaker Kevin McCarthy for working across the aisle to avert a shutdown in 2023. But this year the speaker race comes at a more frantic time, with some Republicans asking President-elect Donald Trump to back Johnson to ensure they can easily certify his victory on Jan. 6. Johnson has remained close to Trump, including at the recent Army-Navy game in Landover, yet the president-elect has indicated he wouldnt stop someone from challenging him for the speakers gavel. Harris previously told The Baltimore Sun that the House Freedom Caucus would be working to deliver Trumps agenda. On Thursday, he said Trump needs strong leadership on Capitol Hill, especially while tight margins mean Republicans cant afford to lose many votes. Could Harris, who has been a reliable and loyal supporter of Trump, be an option for House speaker? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His stock has been rising. Its certainly plausible he could be a name out there, said Flavio Hickel Jr., a political science professor at Washington College in Chestertown. But whether Harris, who did not respond to multiple requests for comment, wants the job or Johnson would be pushed aside is almost impossible to predict, Hickel said. Its reasonable to think Johnson would have at least one more legislative foray before facing serious talk of replacing him, the professor said. I think Johnson might get the first crack at moving Trumps legislative priority, Hickel said. If he fails at that or it falls apart, Andy Harris and others might try to position themselves to be next in line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other hand, skeptical Republicans are already showing signs they want a new speaker in January something Trump opened the door for with his criticism of debt negotiations before the holidays. In a joint statement Dec. 18 with Vice President-elect JD Vance, Trump encouraged Republicans to GET SMART and TOUGH during last-minute negotiations on legislation to avert a government shutdown. If Democrats threaten to shut down the government unless we give them everything they want, then CALL THEIR BLUFF, the statement said. The statement immediately drew criticism from Democrats, as several Republicans and billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk called for shutting down the federal government until Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That chaos prompted Republicans like Harris and Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry, who previously chaired the House Freedom Caucus that Harris now leads, to soften their support of Johnson. I think that (Johnson) has done an admirable job under tough conditions, but Im going to keep my options open, Perry said Friday on Fox Business. Some Republicans, like Rep. Victoria Spartz of Indiana, are undecided. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has said he will vote against Johnson. A weak legislative branch, beholden to the swamp, will not be able to achieve the mandate voters gave Trump and Congress in November, Massie said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris previously told The Sun he also thought the voters gave Trump a mandate, and he said the House Freedom Caucus would help the incoming president pass his agenda. Even if hes not the next speaker, Harris can still wield considerable power in the next Congress, according to Hickel. The House Freedom Caucus, with Harris as their chairman, might decide to act as a more unified block against Johnson and any deal with Democrats, he said. If theyre not acting in a unified way, Harris is still chair of a powerful and influential caucus, and Id look for him to leverage that. _____ Sunny-day flooding in Somerset County. Photo courtesy The Nature Conservancy. As a child, I spent many summers on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland making many of my earliest memories; learning to clam, waiting on the fishing docks for the watermen to return with their bounties so we could get jimmy crabs, visiting Smith Island and watching the skipjack races at Deal Island, and learning the unique culture and history a treasure of the Eastern Shore. As a resident of the Delmarva Peninsula and executive director of Sentinels of Eastern Shore Health, I have seen firsthand how flooding hurts our communities and the livelihoods of people who live in them. Flooding and sea-level rise are affecting millions of Marylanders, and our state needs to invest more to help our communities adapt and survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive personally watched flooding close schools in Crisfield, sea level rise slowly degrade quaint coastal towns until they were essentially uninhabitable, and water wash out the graves of our historic Black communities. Ive spoken with farmers who are losing acreage due to saltwater intrusion, numerous people with undrinkable well water, and devastated business owners. As lawmakers prepare to meet in Annapolis for the 2025 legislative session, I and other coastal residents are asking for investment to be directed toward supporting communities experiencing flooding now,and preparing communities for a future with more water. This needs to be a priority for Maryland, with or without federal support. Your opinion matters Maryland Matters welcomes guest commentary submissions at editor@marylandmatters.org. We suggest a 750-word limit and reserve the right to edit or reject submissions. We do not accept columns that are endorsements of candidates, and no longer accept submissions from elected officials or political candidates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion pieces must be signed by at least one individual using their real name. We do not accept columns signed by an organization. Commentary writers must include a short bio and a photo for their bylines. Views of writers are their own. Marylands more than 7,000 miles of shoreline is a rich mosaic made up of human and ecological histories. Our coastal communities have a strong connection to the lands and water that have supported them and their families for generations. The Chesapeake Bay is also the countrys largest estuary; its ecosystems are home to nearly 3,600 species of plants and animals. The bay is both a haven for biodiversity and an important natural resource that supports the livelihoods of Marylanders. Our state is expected to experience a foot of sea level rise between 2000 and 2050 possibly even more but there would be devastating effects even with just a few more inches. Millions of people who live in Marylands coastal areas are at risk from increased and more intense flooding. High tide or sunny-day flooding is a common occurrence on the low-lying Eastern Shore. In 2021, the coastal city of Crisfield, in Somerset County, experienced more than 80 days of sunny-day flooding, a number that is steadily increasing each year. Exposure to saltwater also damages homes and farmland, drowns marshes and pollutes freshwater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are also getting hit with stronger and more frequent storms. This year alone, Hurricanes Helene and Milton claimed lives in North Carolina and Florida, and the damage to local economies is in the billions of dollars. As we see stories of communities struggling with the aftermath of Helene and Milton and in some cases communities that have been completely destroyed it is a grim reminder that Maryland, too, is extremely vulnerable to similar devastation. We shouldnt wait to take action until storms like Helene and Milton have damaged Maryland communities beyond repair. We can avoid the worst impacts of flooding by taking action now, but very few of our local governments are able to do so. Communities on the Eastern Shore the most low-lying and geographically vulnerable part of the state are already burdened with a legacy of historic pollution, systemic racism and difficulty in accessing state and federal resources. Our local governments are often so understaffed, they dont have the time to look beyond the immediate needs of their communities. These local governments need staff time and support, financial resources and access to technical expertise to help our communities adapt to climate change. This is where the state needs to invest more, but thats not all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our voices need to be heard in Annapolis where decisions are being made for Marylands future investments. The decision-making table needs to be expanded to include the communities most impacted by climate change. Residents of coastal Maryland know and live every day with the reality that the next hurricane season might be the one that pushes them to the point of no return. Communities in coastal Maryland deserve to define their own futures, and we want the state to be a partner in that. Making these investments and implementing solutions now will save us both money and heartbreak in the not-so-distant future. BOSTON (WPRI) Massachusetts lawmakers approved a bill that will allow cities and towns in the Bay State to install automated traffic enforcement cameras on school buses. According to the bill, cameras would take photos and videos of cars that may drive by stopped buses. Local police departments are then required to review the footage and decide if fines should be issued. Additionally, the bill requires the buses with the cameras to be clearly marked, and footage must be destroyed within 30 days for non-violation recordings and within 1 year of the resolution of a violation case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These cameras were tested on buses in Salem and Peabody last year and they caught more than 3,000 drivers passing school buses illegally, and in some cases, coming close to hitting kids. The bill now heads to Gov. Maura Healeys desk. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) appears to be bucking President-elect Trumps endorsement of Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), whom he criticized in a social media post as a potato like President Biden. I respect and support President Trump, but his endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan, Massie posted Monday on the social platform X. Massie made his post not too long after Trump offered his complete and total endorsement of Johnson earlier Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House is set to vote Friday on a new Speaker, and Trumps endorsement was seen as a key moment for Johnson. Trump said Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man, noting he believes the Louisiana lawmaker will do the right thing. Massie has publicly said he wont back Johnson, and it does not appear Trumps endorsement will sway him. In his post Monday, Massie said Johnson partnered with Democrats to send money to Ukraine for its war against Russia and to authorize spying on Americans, and he argued the Speaker has blown the budget. In a follow-up post on Monday, Massie wrote: For months Democrats ignored the fact that Joe Biden was a potato. They convinced themselves that keeping him around was the pragmatic way to win the day. Too late did they admit the emperor had no clothes. Republicans are doing the same thing by keeping Speaker Mike Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Massie votes against Johnson, the Speaker can only afford one more vote against him if all House members are present. Several other conservatives havent committed to voting for Johnson. Massie previously told The Hill he wouldnt back Johnson due to all the grievances I had this summer, when we tried to vacate. He also said the recent continuing resolution bill was another reason he was rebuking Johnsons Speakership. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Disgraced former Today show host Matt Lauer is being accused by animal rights activists of alleged abuse at a sheep farm that operates at his New Zealand luxury hideaway, The Post has learned. Lauer purchased the 16,000-acre (25-square-mile) spread on the South Island for more than $9 million in 2017 just months before he was booted from the morning show after several women accused him of sexual harassment and rape. He has leased a chunk of the land to sheep farmers in the country, which is a major player in the global wool trade. Lauer is not involved with the operation of the farm, called Hunter Valley Farming. The fired Today show anchor is a landlord of a New Zealand sheep farm that allegedly abuses the animals. WireImage An undercover investigation by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals into the Asia-Pacific wool industry claims sheep at Hunter Valley Farming appeared to get struck, with some needing stitches, during the shearing process, according to a grisly video the animal rights group shared with The Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matt Lauers New Zealand getaway is hell for scared sheep who are flung about, pinned down and cut up, PETA president Ingrid Newkirk told The Post. PETA wants Lauer to wash his hands of the bloody wool business. Lauer, who was never charged and denied all allegations that led to his dismissal from NBC, reportedly sold his $44 million home in the Hamptons in 2022, partly so he could spend more time at his New Zealand home. An image from undercover video shot by a PETA worker. PETA His property known as Hunter Valley Station and located about two hours north of Queenstown includes a five-bedroom, lakefront homestead and boasts stunning views of the Southern Alps mountain range, according to a Sothebys listing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Lauer said he had absolutely no knowledge of any alleged problems at his property until The Post reached out for comment. (Lauer) was deeply disturbed and saddened to hear of what allegedly has happened, and immediately launched his own investigation of his tenants operations, which is currently underway, the rep told The Post, adding that PETA has never contacted him with any complaints. When all the facts are known, he will take immediate and appropriate actions. New Zealand, which has more sheep than people, is the third-largest wool producer in the world. It produces so-called ZQ-certified wool, which is marketed as the worlds leading ethical wool brand. PETA alleges horrific abuse at Hunter Valley. PETA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Major consumer brands including Allbirds, Smartwool and Loro Piana use ZQ-certified merino wool, according to PETA. PETA acknowledged that it did not contact Lauer about the alleged abuse at the farm. When we notify companies and individuals implicated in our investigations, their usual reaction is to deny, deflect, and downplay the cruelty uncovered, a PETA spokesperson told The Post. Publicly releasing undercover investigations before notifying implicated parties, like Mr. Lauer, holds them responsible and makes it impossible for them to ignore the cruelty they have the power to stop. Farm workers at the wool shearing operation drag sheep across the floor by just one leg, according to the PETA report. PETA Digby Cochrane and his wife, Hannah, have operated Hunter Valley Farming for decades. The family said Lauer has reached out to them in the past week to discuss PETAs allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At shearing time we employ independent shearing contractors, to shear the sheep, who work in accordance with New Zealand industry accepted guidelines and practices, the Cochranes said in a statement to The Post. Lauers slice of paradise also features hiking trails and rustic rental lodges, an angus cattle farm and is the only thoroughfare to Hawea Conservation Park along Lake Hawea, which is stocked with salmon and trout. Lauers $9.2 million lease agreement to acquire the property required him to invest $1.2 million into infrastructure for farm operations over five years and another $400,000 to clear and fertilize land for food, for any future increase in the cattle stock. Lauer bought the 16,000-acre property for $9.2 million in 2017. Hunter Valley Station The shearing process frequently results in cutting sheep so that they need stitches. PETA Hunter Valley was among 11 farms PETA investigators worked at during the past year, securing video footage and taking detailed notes that are part of a 48-page notarized affidavit, which was shared with The Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The horrific abuse that was documented at Hunter Valley is typical across wool operations, PETAs Jacqu Sadashige, manager of corporate responsibility, told The Post. PETAs report on Hunter Valley Farming included descriptions of sheep allegedly being cut during the shearing process as they struggle with handlers. Other alleged incidents involved the animals being lifted off the ground and dropped onto the hard floor, and then shoved through a shoot that leads to their pen. Sheep are routinely hit, beaten in the face, and stitched up with needle and thread with no pain medication. (WHTM) Harrisburgs final budget for 2025 approved by the City Council wasnt quite final after all. Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams used her power to veto several aspects of the Councils 2025 budget, including trying to take away a two percent raise from six employees on her staff and eighteen police department employees. Mayor Williams restored that raise, as well as funding for the director of the Department of Building and Housing Development and the Police Departments Director of Community Engagement and Relations. By removing this funding, the council has contradicted their previous stance, demonstrated a lack of commitment to the very progressive reforms they have called for, said Mayor Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a response, Harrisburg City Council President Danielle Bowers said they did offer amendments. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter Harrisburg City Council members offered thoughtful amendments that were voted on to amend Bill 7-2024, the 2025 Annual Budget for the City of Harrisburg, Bowers said. We look forward to resuming our work for the residents of the City of Harrisburg continuing to seek accountability and transparency in the new year. Williams cut $10,000 the council wanted for part-time advisors to its youth committee. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) McNallys Irish Pub, along 69th Street and Western Avenue, in Sioux Falls seems to have gone dark, leaving many customers with questions. Downtown Brookings blaze destroys building KELOLAND News was able to get ahold of the general manager for McNallys who says as of right now they are closed, but could not give any further information. We hope to learn more in January. The business was closed on Friday when KELOLAND News attempted to enter during normal business hours on Friday. A phone number listed for the business also just rings unanswered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pub has not posted on social media since December 15th but just a week prior to that they shared a post from another Sioux Falls restaurant saying they could use some support. If you visit McNallys website you are now just greeted with an Irish blessing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. SHARON, Pa. (WKBN) A medical group announced that it is still interested in acquiring Sharon Regional Medical Center. With the potential closure of Sharon Regional Medical Center just days away, a Florida-based doctor and businessman claims he and his partners want to buy the facility. Read next: Lake-effect snow warnings issued near the Valley Yates Medical Group LLC announced Tuesday that they have been trying since June 2024 to purchase the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres over 20 acute care hospitals that weve acquired, run, managed and turned around, said Benjamin Yates. Benjamin Yates last summer announced he was interested in both Trumbull Regional and Hillside Hospitals in Trumbull County as well as Sharon Regional. We were told that we were, at the time the only party. There was no one. No one else was interested in Sharon or even bidding on Sharon or trying to acquire Sharon, Yates said. While Yates claims to have the support of Shenango Valley Congressman Mike Kelly, his office has not confirmed that. However, the city manager in Sharon said he has talked with Yates but admits local leaders are not the decision-makers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe be a lot easier if we were but this isnt the case. Its a pretty complex situation, City Manager Bob Fiscus said. Tuesday, officials with Governor Josh Shapiros office issued a statement indicating they are working closely with the Pennsylvania Attorney General and stakeholders to preserve access to essential services in the area. However, the Department of Health has not received a change of ownership application from Yates. Its been suggested it will take $25 million to buy the property and make immediate capital improvements with another $30 million line of credit to keep the facility operating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Time is of the essence. Thats all Im gonna say. Like every day that goes by, its a more dire situation, Yates said. Fiscus said hes heard from several credible groups in recent weeks, including Yates but time is running short. Were not in the 11th hour. Were like in the 11th hour and the 58th minute. In that time, you know, its all hands on deck, Fiscus said. A January 3 hearing is still scheduled before Mercer County Common Pleas Judge Tedd C. Nesbit to discuss the actual property the hospital sits on. A court order has already been filed in the Southern District of Texas Bankruptcy Court, approving a motion to close the hospital by Monday, Jan. 6 and closing procedures are underway. Community members continue to rally to save the hospital. In September, Yates Medical Group LLC. announced that it has expressed interest in buying Steward Health hospitals, and it also wants to reopen Northside Regional Medical Center in Youngstown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. On Monday (Dec. 31), Meek Mill took to Twitter to express his thoughts after watching bodycam footage connected with Robert Brooks death in a New York prison. The 43-year-old Brooks was serving a 12-year sentence at Marcy Correctional Facility for felony assault. I never fully watched this till today, Meek wrote. This [is] what it is for Black men in America if you get caught without them cameras around! If you've been to jail [before], youve seen this with your own eyes! Trending The footage, which surfaced Dec. 27 and was recorded Dec. 9, showed Brooks, handcuffed with his hands behind his back, being repeatedly punched, kicked and struck with a shoe by multiple staff in a medical examination room. At one point, he was lifted by the collar and held off the ground before being left motionless on a hospital bed. Audio from the footage was removed, making it unclear what led to the assault or the exchanges between all parties. He died of asphyxia a day after the violent attack. As REVOLT previously revealed, four of the guards named in the incident were accused of prisoner abuse in a 2022 lawsuit filed by inmate William Alvarez, who referred to them as part of a beat-up squad. That filing detailed a violent encounter that left him with a bloodied face and a severe head injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday (Dec. 31), TMZ shared the annual salaries of the staff members under investigation, which included eight of the 14 individuals making six figures. Among the highest earners were Sgt. Glenn Trombly at $149,185 and officer David Kingsley II at $147,745. Since the tragic incident, 13 employees were suspended without pay, while one, officer Anthony Farina, resigned. Gov. Kathy Hochul condemned the incident, stating, New York has zero tolerance for individuals who break the law, and Im committed to holding everyone involved fully accountable. She also ordered the termination of all involved officers and called for immediate action from the Department of Corrections. You Might Also Like TEHRAN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Ministry of Culture confirmed Monday the detention of an Italian journalist on the charge of "violating" the country's laws. In a statement published on its website, the ministry said the Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, who traveled to Iran on Dec. 13 with a press visa, was arrested on Dec. 19 for "violating the laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran." The case is in the investigative process, the statement said. The Italian embassy in Tehran has been informed of the arrest and that Sala has been provided with consular access and has contacted her family through phone calls, it added. On Friday, the Italian Foreign Ministry announced in a statement on its official website Sala's arrest by Iranian authorities. "On the instructions of Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, the Italian embassy and consulate in Tehran have been following the case with the utmost attention since the very beginning," it said, noting that the ministry had been working with Tehran to "clarify Sala's legal situation and verify the conditions of her detention." Sala, 29, works for Italian daily newspaper Il Foglio and podcast company Chora Media. A big-money donor to the Democratic Party gave a surprising summary of Donald Trump. The president-elect is a fucking genius, John Morgan told Politico for an article published Sunday that explored the potential toxicity of the Democratic brand. I dont know if Trump is a stable genius, but hes a fucking genius, Morgan said. He tapped into something the Republicans never saw, which was anger and populism on that side. President-elect Donald Trump is a "fucking genius," according to one donor to the Democratic Party. Andrew Harnik via Getty Images Florida-based fundraiser Morgan has previously donated to President Joe Biden, to Vice President Kamala Harris, to state Democrats, and to push other causes championed by the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he actually quit the Democratic Party and become an independent voter in 2017, citing at the time a lack of enthusiasm for any of todays politicians although he said he would still support candidates he likes personally. Morgan, who is once again considering a run for Florida governor, teased to Politico that he might launch a new Capitalist Party for which he would campaign as a compassionate capitalist. Related... The subject of the day is marijuana, so lets indulge in a little nostalgia. Do you remember the first time you smoked a joint? I do, and that is part of the problem with pot. The act of smoking pot back in the day, when it was illegal, was such a special event that you can remember who you did it with and what the whole getting high thing felt like. If youre my age, you can probably even remember the hopes and dreams for pot with rock and roll music and something called free love, which was neither free nor love, would somehow combine to change the world. Well, I havent smoked marijuana for fifty years. Ive seen the world change, but not in the way that my 20-something self expected. The results of the vote on Nov. 5 should be enough to confirm that. Youve read all the analysis about why people voted for Donald Trump they felt forgotten, they were angry, they wanted to get back at the libs on and on the reasons go, and we know to whom those reasons apply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what about the perplexing strength of the vote Trump received in urban America and among young people and those with college educations, especially among white voters? His numbers went up in that cohort of our fellow citizens and in those unlikely areas. What accounts for that part of Trumps vote in 2024? Post-election poll results have shown what can only be described as jaw-dropping cognitive dissonance in the voting public. In sector after sector, from women to young people to Black people to Hispanics, voters were seen to have voted against their own interests by marking their ballots for Trump. Some analysts have said those voters made the difference in battleground states. Here's my question: How many of those people were pot smokers? I looked up the battleground states Kamala Harris lost. In every battleground state Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin marijuana is either completely legal or decriminalized to one degree or another. In North Carolina, up to 1.5 ounces is decriminalized. In Pennsylvania, its decriminalized by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction where the Democratic vote went down from Bidens totals in 2020 had decriminalized marijuana. The same in Georgia marijuana is decriminalized in Atlanta, Fulton County, Savannah, Macon, all places where the Democratic vote was down from 2020 totals. In Wisconsin, its decriminalized in the Democratic strongholds of Milwaukee and Madison. In Arizona, Nevada, and Michigan, possession for recreational use is completely legal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I may as well come out right here and say what Im getting at: pot makes you mellow, man. That has been one of its main positive effects for as long as people have smoked it. The people behind the legalization of pot going back to the hippie era, the NORML movement crowd, and eventually even those who might be described as more serious who argued for the legalization of marijuana everyone pointed to its beneficial side effect of making people more peaceful, less likely to get into fights, more accepting of othersmellow, man. But what if part of being mellow isnt so wonderful? What if being mellow has the side effect of just not caring very much about whos running things in far away Washington D.C.? All those problems in this country income inequality, lack of health insurance, diminished or completely lacking health care itself, the disappearance of manufacturing jobs, even abortion bans and stuff like homelessness who can keep up with it all? Theyre all problems that cant be solved. But if a problem is insoluble, its not a problem anymore; its just the way things are. I will concede that you dont have to be high on pot to have a kind of throw your hands up and say forget about it attitude. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no evidence to prove that pot smoking may have cost Kamala Harris the election. I doubt there is polling that is specific enough to show what we might call the marijuana vote going toward Trump or away from Harris or even just not showing up to vote. But you can see where Im going with this. Anything that makes you not care about what happens is dangerous when it comes to democracy. So, Ill just throw in an anecdote. I had a friend in Sag Harbor who had a PhD in economics and spent his life as an official in the United Auto Workers, first as an organizer, later as a negotiator with automakers for big union contracts. He was as militant a union man as I ever met, and I have met a few in my day, and moreover, he was drop-dead brilliant. He could pick apart an argument you made with one or two incisive slashes of history, facts, humor or logic, mostly all four put together in ways youd never heard before. Talking with him at a morning coffee gathering of like-minded souls was downright thrilling. Unless he came to coffee stoned, then he just sat there and grinned and nodded, occasionally throwing in a non sequitur that made no sense at all and suffered additionally from not being at all witty or funny, which he always was when he wasnt stoned. Marijuana had the effect of temporarily disabling him, I guess you could say. Being mellow while stoned isnt just a side effect of the drug. It can be the effect, and alter your life in ways you wouldnt ordinarily expect. I dont intend this column to be either a jeremiad or a lambasting of marijuana. Heres another anecdote that presents at least a little hope about pot smoking, if not an actual endorsement. A friend who lived in San Diego, California, has friends in the SDPD who told him that when they got a domestic call out or a noise complaint, when the front door opened, if they smelled alcohol, they would unbutton their holsters. If they smelled pot, they would relax, knowing things would be cool and there would be no violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It obviously cant be proven that there has been some sort of conspiracy to legalize pot to keep the rabble happy and more or less under control. Legalization is too spotty and differentiated to make that case, even when you take into consideration that the legalization of pot for medical use in 39 states has clearly opened the door for its use recreationally, for which it is legal in 24 states. But in the red states where pot remains illegal, the rabble doesnt need to be controlled chemically with marijuana. Red state governments pass repressive laws accomplishing that goal very nicely, thank you very much. Its the blue areas of the purple states that didnt hold up their end of the bargain for Democrats in November that worry me. Marijuana isnt classified as a dangerous drug, but Im afraid it can have the narcotic effect of making people care less about what is happening around them. When what is going on in this country begins to verge on authoritarianism, not caring is a danger to our democracy and to ourselves. Thats all Im saying. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) City faith leaders are calling on the state to fire all Marcy correctional officers connected to the death of inmate and Greece man, Robert Brooks. On Monday, a spokesperson for Gov. Kathy Hochul confirmed to News 8 that of the 14 correction officers accused in the beating incident, 13 officers were suspended without pay last week and one officer resigned. The body-worn camera footage was set on standby by the grace of God. [The officers] participated in beating Robert Brooks until he was what appears to be nothing less than graveyard dead, said Rev. Dwight Fowler of United Christian Leadership Ministries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The calls for justice ring out days after the release of the body-worn camera footage from New York Attorney General Letitia James office. The Dec. 9 video shows the violent moments leading up to Brooks death on Dec. 10 at a Utica hospital. New York Attorney General releases video of Marcy Correctional inmate beating We have witnessed a type of slave patrol and a type of slave annihilation of our brother. What one might call, for lack of a better term, a despicable, barbaric, ruthless, dehumanizing type of slave-patrolled behavior. We have come to make it unequivocally clear here and now that their actions were and are unacceptable, said Rev. Fowler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Faith leaders are also leading a call on the government to launch a thorough investigation into Marcy Correctional Facility. They say this includes a push for a state program to ensure no correction officer engages without his or her body-worn camera turned on in the future. Replace the misfits with correction officers who fit. This is our demand and until this happens, we will cry loud. We will not give up and we will not give in until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream, said Rev. Fowler. Lentory Johnson lost her son, Johnny Johnson, in the 2015 Boys and Girls Club mass shooting on Rochesters Genesee Street. The grief and pain of Brooks family, she says, is all too familiar. Its the very beginning of their journey, and theres so much to go. Even the young man whos now in prison for the death of my child. I wouldve felt no different if I saw that perpetrated on him, had it been him in that film. Because at the end of the day, justice is justice. Nobody in this community, I dont care what your gender is and I dont care whats your color, were all community. None of us should take this and let it just fly, said Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He thought he would die that day: Marcy CO allegedly involved in deadly beating named in separate lawsuit Community groups will hold a rally and vigil outside the Monroe County Jail Monday evening to further make their calls for justice heard. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. A 16-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the murder of a person at a trailer park in Mesa near McKellips Road and Center Street. Mesa police officers were alerted to a shooting at the trailer park around 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 18 after witnesses saw the teen fire rounds at the victim, who was seated in the drivers seat of a green truck. According to witnesses, the boy then fled the scene with a rifle, returned moments later and drove away with the person still in the vehicle, Mesa police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The truck was abandoned about 6 miles away near Val Vista and Quenton drives. The victim was found in the passenger seat with apparent gunshot wounds, said Mesa police. A rifle believed to be the murder weapon was recovered by detectives during a neighborhood canvass, Mesa police confirmed. Mesa police detectives identified and arrested the teen on Dec. 27. He was located at an apartment and taken into custody without incident, Mesa police said. He admitted to detectives that he was present during the shooting and holding the weapon that killed the other person, according to police. The teen faces charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery, abandonment of a dead body and tampering with evidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mesa police: Teen accused of first-degree murder, armed robbery ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) From historic wildfires and flooding, to one of the most watched criminal trials of the year, 2024 has been another big news year for New Mexico. This week on KRQEs News 13s New Mexico News Insiders, Chris and Gabby are taking a look back at some of the most impactful stories of 2024 with KRQEs evening anchors, Jessica Garate, and Dean Staley. This year, weve put together a roundtable discussion, analyzing four big New Mexico news topics in 2024 and how theyll take shape in 2025. Dean Staley kicks off the discussion with how warming seasons and natural disasters have affected New Mexico. Las Vegas saw more than 30 inches of snow in November, Roswell experienced record flooding in an October storm, while areas near Willard were buried in rain and hail in June. Gabby continues the conversation, leading discussion around the ongoing federal investigation into Albuquerque Polices DWI Unit scandal. Will officers face criminal charges for the alleged public corruption scheme? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were also talking about the ongoing struggles with the states Children, Youth and Families Department, a topic Jessica Garate has highlighted through several stories in 2024. One of those stories includes a deeper look at the states child-parent reunification policy. Chris wraps up the discussion with a brief look into New Mexicos development story and the major projects promising an economic shot in the arm that have or havent taken shape in 2024. Will Maxeons promised solar manufacturing plant, or Ebon Solars project take shape in Mesa del Sol in 2025? Story continues below Stay up with the latest news and subscribe to the New Mexico News Insiders podcast wherever you listen. Download new episodes of the New Mexico News Insiders every Tuesday, starting around 5:30 a.m., Mountain time. Episodes are available on most podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean, among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can now watch our podcasts in video form both on-air or online. Tune in to an abbreviated version of the New Mexico News Insiders podcast on broadcast television every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. on Fox New Mexico. Full video episodes are posted on KRQEs YouTube page at youtube.com/krqenews13. Having trouble finding the show? Try searching your favorite podcast player with the term KRQE or New Mexico News Insiders (without the quotes). You can also use the links above to find the podcast on each service or listen to the audio player at the top of this post. If you have a question, comment, or suggestion for who should be interviewed on the podcast, let us know! Email your hosts at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico (Reuters) -Three suspects were arrested on Monday in the death of a Mexican migration agent who was found earlier in the day with no signs of life, state security and migration officials said. The death of the agent marked a rare case of deadly violence against agents weeks before an expected crackdown on immigration once U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office. State investigators confirmed that the migration agent suffered a head injury and was found with no vital signs. His body also showed "signs of violence," according to a statement from public security officials with northern Chihuahua state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement said that two Venezuelan men had been taken into custody. Mexican migration agency INM said in a separate statement that a third suspect, a Colombian national, was also detained. The slain agent was attacked at a checkpoint just south of Ciudad Juarez, which is across the border from the U.S. city of El Paso, Texas, when he asked an unspecified number of foreign nationals for their identification documents, according to INM. The death of the migration official comes as would-be migrants await an expected tightening on entry to the United States once Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Hundreds of U.S.-bound migrants waited in long lines outside an immigration office in southern Mexico on Monday, hoping to secure safe passage north and enter the U.S. legally before Trump returns to power. (Reporting by Jose Luis Gonzalez and Diego Ore; Editing by David Alire Garcia and Leslie Adler) The holidays are normally a season of giving, but scammers have been doing more taking in recent years, leaving consumers frustrated about whether there's any resolution for them. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is informing Michiganders who believe they are a victim of fraud to file a complaint with her office's Customer Protection Team. "Each year, our Consumer Protection Team helps Michigan consumers by mediating complaints that fall within our jurisdiction, Nessel said in a news release. I encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud or deceptive business practices to reach out and file a complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know: How to file a complaint Michigan consumers can file a complaint either by mail, fax, or online. What types of complaints can I file? Michiganders can file complaints within a range of topics including data breeches, health and travel club memberships, price gouging, grandparent scams and more. What to know before filing a complaint If you are looking to file a complaint there are a few things to know before a submission. All complaints, along with their supporting material, will become public records once submitted. As part of the Michigan Freedom of Information Act, any information used for a complaint can be disclosed in future inquiries, however, according to the Attorney General's website, it "will not be sold, rented or leased." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avoid sending over sensitive information unless it is necessary. If a consumer feels the need to provide such information, they should submit it by mail. Make copies of all documents. The Attorney General's Office does not return any documentation. What happens afterward? If filing an online complaint, consumers will be given a file number shortly after completion. According to the news release, it can take weeks for a complaint to be processed. For information on how to file a complaint, go to the Customer Protection Team's website. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: How Michiganders can file a fraud complaint during holiday season GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A new Michigan law requiring stores to sell only cage-free eggs is now in effect. The bipartisan legislation, originally passed in 2009, was set to take effect at the end of 2019 but was expanded and delayed after pressure from the U.S. Humane Society. The law prohibits the sale of eggs from hens confined in ways that dont meet cage-free standards. Hens must be free to roam and have enough space to lie down, stand up, extend their limbs, and turn around. The Michigan Retailers Association, which represents 5,000 businesses, says stores had ample time to adapt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of them have been shifting their inventory over time as well, and making sure that the suppliers theyre sourcing from are in compliance with the law, said Vic Veda, the associations vice president of communications. Retailers just need to make sure that their suppliers are compliant. SpartanNash, one of the associations member businesses, confirmed compliance, adding in a statement: We are in compliance with the new law and, as always, continue to ensure our stores provide affordable nutrition for our guests. The law does not apply to liquid or cooked egg products or eggs from farms with fewer than 3,000 hens. Research from Michigan State University highlights the challenges for producers, noting that cage-free facilities require double the investment, more workers, specialized labor, and additional feed compared to caged systems. Building such facilities takes about two to three years well within the five year window between the laws passage and implementation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some producers already transitioned entirely to cage-free systems. Saranac-based Herbrucks completed theirs by the end of 2023. Cage-free is the future for both birds and consumers, said the companys president in a February statement. We know the market is demanding premium eggs from healthy hens. While some consumers may worry about rising egg prices, Veda clarified that the law is not the cause. The price changes that were seeing in eggs are more due to the bird flu epidemic than this law going into effect, Veda said. With the law now in place, cage-free eggs are no longer just an option for Michigan shoppers theyre the standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) As the nation prepares for a new year and a new presidential administration, some of the biggest expected changes in 2025 will be those regarding immigration and deportation. During his presidential campaign, President-elect Donald Trump promised to make sweeping changes on day onewhich is now less than a month away. 6 News spoke with an expert on immigration law about what the country can expect to see, and how immigration advocates are now preparing their clients for a very different world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incoming administration has said it is going to mobilize local, state, and federal law enforcement as part of the largest deportation campaign in history, and advocates say its only a matter of time before you start seeing them where you live. The rhetoric that weve heard of late is that theyre anticipating doing a lot of workplace sweeps targeting those industries that overwhelmingly use immigrant labor, says Julie Powers, executive director of Immigration Law & Justice Michigan. For the first time in more than a decade, the incoming administration says it will change policy to allow raids at places that previously were not allowed. I think that they are going to be afraid to get healthcare services. I think that they are going to be afraid to get healthcare services, may be afraid to enroll their children in school, and they may not be willing to attend faith-based services, says Powers. Which is really, really sad, because that is such a wonderful and vibrant community for a lot of our immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People could also be able to send a tip into law enforcementand get someone arrested the same day. The incoming administration has said that it is their intention to empower local people to inform on their neighbors, says Powers. And if you think that this looks like Nazi Germany, youre not wrong, because this is whats going to happen. Its going to be neighbors informing on neighbors. Michigan currently has 690,000 immigrants, and around 90,000 of them are undocumented. Experts say it is only a matter of time before they end up interacting with law enforcement, so now is the time to make sure your paperwork is in order. We encourage anyone who is in the immigration process, whether theyre a citizen here on a green card lawfully or if theyre in the process of making sure that their documentation is current and valid, says Powers. Because its really easy to mess it up and you need an attorney to get through the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you or someone you know are a non-citizen in need of assistance, you can find multilingual resources here and here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Supported by a series of policy measures to address the yearslong slump, China's property market has shown signs of stabilization and uptick, with renewed confidence and rising demand observed in its most dynamic regional real estate markets. From easing restrictive policies to introducing stimulus measures, China's 2024 real estate policy package, whether at the country or local level, has been rolled out in droves. Adjustments have been made across areas, including mortgage rates, transaction taxes, down payment ratios, and both supply and demand sides. In late September, a key meeting convened by the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee emphasized the need to stabilize the property market and reverse its downturn. Industry insiders view this meeting as a critical turning point for the real estate sector, signaling a shift in policy direction. After a year marked by one of the highest numbers of stimulating policies in history, they believe China's real estate industry is now experiencing its most relaxed period in recent years. POLICY PACKAGE Since the beginning of 2024, more cities have lifted the restrictive policies introduced during periods of market overheating while also releasing favorable policies. Based on the data released by the China Index Academy, in the first half of 2024, many second-tier cities such as Suzhou, Hangzhou, Chengdu and Xi'an gradually lifted their home purchase restrictions. In the second half, major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen took significant steps to relax these policies. Among them, Guangzhou fully abolished its home purchase restrictions, while Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen notably reduced the residency requirements for non-local residents' purchases. All cities, except for Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and some areas in Hainan, have fully removed their home purchase restrictions, according to the China Index Academy. Other landmark measures are the adjustment and optimization of credit policies, to lower the barriers to homeownership and reduce housing costs for residents. On May 17, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) and the National Financial Regulatory Administration announced that the minimum down payment ratio for individuals' commercial housing mortgages is lowered to 15 percent for first-home purchases. In September, the minimum down payment ratio of 15 percent was extended to second-home purchases. "This is the lowest down payment requirement in history, which will be very helpful in boosting the property market," said Yan Yuejin, deputy director at E-house China R&D Institute. Meanwhile, new tax policies have further bolstered confidence in the real estate market. On Nov. 13, the Ministry of Finance, the State Tax Administration, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development jointly released a set of tax optimization policies related to real estate covering deed tax, value-added tax (VAT), and land value-added tax. For deed tax, the applicable 1 percent tax rate is extended from properties under 90 square meters to those under 140 square meters, with no distinction for first-tier cities. Regarding value-added tax, after removing the standard for ordinary housing in many cities, a unified VAT policy now applies nationwide, namely sales of residential properties held for two years or more are exempt from VAT. In keeping with these policy initiatives, local government departments have acted to stimulate demand, reverse the market downturn and stabilize the market. According to data from the China Index Academy, from January to November this year, over 300 cities introduced more than 700 policies in China, including easing purchase restrictions and optimizing lending conditions. Together, these efforts are swiftly reflected in the latest market data. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the decline in the prices of commercial residential homes in the country's 70 large and medium-sized cities narrowed on a year-on-year basis in November. Home transactions also showed a turnaround in October, with new home transactions reversing a 15-month decline and rising 0.9 percent year on year. The total transactions of both new and second-hand homes grew by 3.9 percent, marking the first increase following eight months of drops. "In November, the housing price index showed a significant improvement in month-on-month indicators, with a clear narrowing of the decline, signaling that the turning point in national housing prices has arrived," said Yan. PALPABLE EFFECT The shift in market sentiment is palpable on the ground. In China's first-tier cities, real estate brokers and homebuyers are sensing a market recovery earlier than expected. Huo Peng, a manager at an office of China's major real estate chain, Lianjia, in Beijing's Chaoyang District, noted that brokers now update information for clients every two days instead of weekly due to adapting to a fast-paced market. "The past two months have been the best in a year," Huo said, as brokers now guide double the average number of client visits daily. Online inquiries at Huo's office have surged from more than 700 to over 1,100 per month, with some deals closing after just a few property viewings. "The market is clearly improving," Huo added. Recent policy shifts, such as reducing social security requirements for non-locals to purchase homes within Beijing's fifth ring road, have fueled demand. One of Huo's clients is Zhang Qiang, a new homeowner, who attributed his purchase of a 60-square-meter property for about 2 million yuan (about 278,226 U.S. dollars) to the relaxed eligibility criteria. Gao Yuan, director of the Beijing Lianjia Research Institute, reported a notable uptick in Beijing's second-hand housing market. From Dec. 1 to 15, 9,960 second-hand homes were sold, an 11.7 percent increase compared to the same period in November. "The housing market in core cities is showing clear signs of stabilization, with residents regaining confidence in property purchases," said Gao. He described the rebound as a result of restored market confidence, suggesting a more sustained recovery. Xu Yuejin, an analyst with the China Index Academy, also echoed this sentiment. "With continued price declines in the past, some lower-priced properties in these cities now offer compelling value, which will support sales and prices," Xu said. He noted that recent policy measures have notably improved residents' expectations, reducing the room for price negotiations in the second-hand housing market. "These factors are likely to aid in price recovery and create a more stable housing market trajectory." The recovering real estate market in Shanghai has boosted developers' confidence in land acquisition. By the end of November, Shanghai's seventh round of land auctions concluded, with total transactions exceeding 30.7 billion yuan. Regarding premium rates, seven out of ten parcels achieved premiums, with five parcels seeing rates between 11 and 19 percent and a few surpassing 20 percent. Notably, a sought-after parcel in the Pudong New Area achieved a 40 percent premium rate, marking the premium rate cap for the popular residential land in Shanghai. China's big-time developer Poly acquired three land parcels in succession, including in Pudong. This aggressive strategy underscores the company's confidence in Shanghai's real estate market and its future growth potential. "We observed optimistic sales performance in nearby projects, coupled with future regional development plans and concepts, which bolsters confidence in the parcels' potential," Yu Tian, marketing general manager of Poly Developments and Holdings Group's Shanghai branch, told Xinhua. The Micron Technology office building on Godwin Drive in Manassas. (Courtesy of Micron Technology) Micron Technology, one of the worlds largest semiconductor manufacturers, is investing up to $2.17 billion to expand its operations in Manassas creating 340 new jobs and modernizing its facility to meet growing demand in automotive, aerospace, defense and industrial markets, the company and Virginia officials announced Monday. Micron Technologys historic investment in Manassas reinforces Virginias position as a leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, Gov. Glenn Youngkin said in a statement. This expansion strengthens Americas supply chain security while bringing hundreds of new jobs in one of the worlds most critical industries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Micron, which has operated in Manassas for 22 years, the project will enable the company to produce advanced Dynamic Random Access Memory chips, which are used in PCs, workstations and servers worldwide, positioning the commonwealth as a critical hub for domestic semiconductor production. The expansion is backed by federal funding from the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act and several state and local incentives. The latter include an appropriation of up to $70 million approved by the MEI Commission and workforce development assistance through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, which was recognized as the No. 1 Customized Workforce Training Program in the U.S. by Business Facilities in 2024. Developed by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership in collaboration with higher education institutions, the program streamlines the launch of new facilities by offering tailored recruitment and training services. The combined investments will help drive economic growth and ensure that the U.S. remains at the forefront of technological advancements, Micron President and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia leaders applauded the expansion as a major win for the states economy and workforce. This transformative investment leverages Virginias world-class talent pipeline and established advanced manufacturing capabilities, said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. Microns confidence in Virginia sends a clear message that the commonwealth is the premier location for semiconductor manufacturing and technological innovation. Stakeholders hope that Microns expansion will enhance Americas semiconductor supply chain resilience and boost economic activity in Northern Virginia. This expansion strengthens our nations semiconductor supply chain, creates good-paying jobs, and reaffirms Virginias leadership in the future of American manufacturing, said Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., who authored the CHIPS Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., echoed the sentiment, highlighting the broader economic and national security benefits. Ensuring the U.S. can produce chips is critical for the U.S.s economic competitiveness and national security, Kaine said. This investment will allow us to make more chips here at home, create jobs, and strengthen our supply chains. Local leaders also welcomed the announcement, emphasizing its impact on the Manassas community. Microns expansion in Manassas boosts the citys growing economy and reflects its strong partnership with the nations leading memory chip manufacturer, said Interim Manassas City Manager Doug Keen. And Del. Michelle Maldonado, D-Mannassas, called the project a testament to the strength of our economy and the regions leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, adding that it highlights Virginia as a number one place to live, work, and raise a family. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Dozens of patients and the wounded have been evacuated for treatment outside the war-ravaged Gaza Strip, where the United Nations says Israel's attacks on and around hospitals have pushed health care to the brink. The 45 patients left the European Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis early Tuesday and traveled through the Kerem Shalom Crossing into Israel, Palestinian health officials said. They will receive treatment in the United Arab Emirates. Among them was a 10-year-old boy, Abdullah Abu Yousef, suffering from kidney failure. He was accompanied by his sister after the Israeli authorities rejected his mothers application to join him. Israel says it screens escorts for security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boy is sick, said his mother, Abeer Abu Yousef. He requires hemodialysis three to four days a week. The Health Ministry says several thousand Palestinians in Gaza need medical treatment abroad. Israel has controlled all entry and exit points since capturing the southern city of Rafah in May. Israels offensive, launched after Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack has gutted the territorys health care system and forced most of its hospitals to close. Those that remain open are only partially functioning. Heres the latest: Head of UN agency aiding Palestinians says at least 745 have been killed in its shelters Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNITED NATIONS The head of the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees says that since the war in Gaza began at least 745 people were killed and more than 2,200 injured in its shelters where they had sought United Nations protection. Philippe Lazzarini said in a post on X on Tuesday that nearly 650 incidents were recorded against buildings and facilities belonging to the agency, known as UNRWA, and over two-thirds of its buildings and schools have been damaged or destroyed. Since Israel began its retaliation for the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel, 258 UNRWA staff members have been killed and at least 20 are in Israeli detention centers, Lazzarini said. He said the agency continues to receive reports that Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups have used UNRWA facilities, and it has verified the occupation of its premises by Israeli Defense Forces on several occasions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNRWA provides essential services to millions of Palestinians across the Middle East and has underpinned aid efforts in Gaza throughout the Israel-Hamas war. Israel has accused UNRWA of being infiltrated by Hamas supporters and it passed legislation on Oct. 28 which takes effect in 90 days banning the U.N. agency from operating in the country. UNRWA denies the allegations, saying it is committed to neutrality and acts quickly to address any wrongdoing by its staff. The UNRWA commissioner-general reiterated his call for independent investigations into the systematic disregard for the protection of humanitarian workers, premises and operations in Gaza. This cannot become the new standard, and impunity cannot become the new norm, he stressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lazzarini said the rules of war are clear: Humanitarian workers and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and U.N. buildings, cant be targeted; civilians must be protected; and hostage-taking is prohibited. World Central Kitchen complies with Israeli security checks of its employees NICOSIA, Cyprus World Central Kitchen said an Israeli security check of its employees in Gaza has prompted the charity to make changes so that it can continue feeding people in the Palestinian territory. The charity said it felt this step was necessary to protect our team and operations following a Nov. 30 Israeli airstrike on a car in Gaza that killed five people, including a WCK worker. Israeli authorities said the WCK worker took part in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the Israel-Hamas war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the airstrike, Israel publicly demanded an investigation into WCKs hiring practices in Gaza, including security checks through COGAT, the Israeli department in charge of humanitarian aid to Gaza. WCK said it made changes in Gaza after Israeli authorities handed over the results of their security check. WCK didnt explicitly say if it has terminated any employee who Israeli authorities had flagged. The charity said that prior to receiving the COGAT results, we had no reason for concern regarding any of these individuals and, because Israel does not share intelligence with aid organizations, we do not know the basis for Israels decision to flag these individuals. Days after surgery, Netanyahu rushes to the Knesset for a budget vote Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TEL AVIV, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rushed to Israels parliament Tuesday for an emergency vote on a portion of the budget less than two days after his prostate surgery, after parts of his coalition refused to support the measure. Israeli media reported that Netanyahu took his seat in the Knesset despite doctors objections in an effort to pass the budget measure. The coalition was able to achieve a majority in a last-ditch attempt. The vote was critical because Tuesday is the last day of the 2024 tax year, and if the vote had not passed, the government would have had to find another funding source to plug an approximately 10 billion Israeli shekel ($2.7 billion) deficit. Also, if the budget does not pass in full by March, it will force snap elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Far-right Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has instructed his party not to support the critical budget measure, which attempts to address a massive budget deficit. At least three others also said they would vote against the measure over their displeasure over forced enlistment of ultra-Orthodox men in the military. On Monday, the hospital said Netanyahu's recovery was proceeding well after undergoing prostate surgery Sunday night. US launches airstrikes on military targets of Houthi rebels in Yemen CAIRO The U.S. military has launched airstrikes targeting military facilities belonging to Yemen's Houthi rebels in the capital, Sanaa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles, the Central Command said. It said the facilities that were hit were used in attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. U.S. Navy and Air Force aircraft also destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site, seven cruise missiles and an UAVs over the Red Sea, it said. The Houthis have been firing drones and missiles at Israel, as well as attacking shipping in the Red Sea corridor attacks they say wont stop until Israel agrees to a ceasefire with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis' media office said Tuesday that 10 airstrikes hit the May 22 facility in Sanaas northern Thurah district and two more hit the Aradi facility, which houses the rebels defence ministry in central Sanaa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mohammed Abdul-Salam, the Houthi chief negotiator and spokesman, called the strikes a gross violation of the sovereignty of an independent state. Israel acknowledges it assassinated Hamas leader in Beirut TEL AVIV, Israel Israel acknowledged for the first time it was behind the assassination of Hamas leader Saleh Arouri in Beirut in January 2024. Arouri, the deputy political head of Hamas and a founder of the groups military wing, was one of at least five top Hamas leaders assassinated in Lebanon over the past year, according to the year-end review released by Israels Shin Bet security service on Tuesday. France carries out airstrikes against Islamic State militants in Syria BEIRUT France has carried out airstrikes against Islamic State militants in Syria, the first since the ouster of President Bashar Assad, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said. During a visit to French U.N. peacekeepers in neighboring Lebanon, Lecornu said in a post on X that the strikes on Sunday were part of the fight against terrorism in the Levant. France has been a member of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, known as Operation Inherent Resolve, since 2014 in Iraq and 2015 in Syria. The coalition has continued to hit IS militants even after a lightning offensive by Syrian insurgents toppled Assad and altered the countrys political landscape. The IS group has maintained a presence through sleeper cells in parts of Iraq and Syria, particularly in remote desert regions and areas with limited security oversight. Israel says it arrested 2,500 Palestinians in Gaza in 2024 TEL AVIV, Israel Israels Shin Bet security service said it had arrested around 2,500 Palestinians in Gaza during 2024, of which 650 were interrogated. The agency said, without providing evidence, that the interrogations enabled Israel to retrieve nine bodies of hostages who were kidnapped and taken to Gaza during Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack. Additionally, 27 Israelis were indicted for spying for Iran, a nearly four-fold increase from 2023, it said. The Shin Bet released the figures in their year-end review of operations during the calendar year. In the occupied West Bank, 3,682 Palestinians were arrested on suspicion of involvement in terror activities, the Shin Bet said. Last year, Israel arrested more than 4,000 Palestinians in the West Bank between October to December, according to the U.N. The U.N. Human Rights Office issued a report this summer saying Palestinians detained by Israeli authorities since the Oct. 7 attacks faced waterboarding, sleep deprivation, electric shocks, dogs set on them and other forms of torture and mistreatment. Israels prison authorities previously said that all Palestinian prisoners are treated according to Israeli and international law. Heavy rains and cold weather cause more misery in Gaza DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip Palestinians are bailing muddy water out of their frigid tents after heavy rains in war-ravaged Gaza. Hundreds of thousands of people are living in sprawling tent camps along the coast, where winter brings frequent rainstorms and temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. At least four babies have died of hypothermia in recent weeks, according to local health officials. Im drowning, Manal Lubbad sobbed as she waded in ankle-deep water inside her tent on Tuesday, trying to salvage blankets and other belongings. Im taking everything out into the street. We are dead, we are not alive! Why is this happening? she said. Israels nearly 15-month offensive against Hamas, triggered by the militants Oct. 7, 2023 attack, has destroyed vast areas of the impoverished territory and displaced some 90% of its population of 2.3 million, often multiple times. The Civil Defense, first responders affiliated with the Hamas-run government, said it received hundreds of emergency calls to evacuate people from flooded shelters. Associated Press footage showed barefoot children wading through muddy water between rows of tightly packed tents. Muhammad Diab placed an empty cooking pot on the dirt floor of his tent to catch rainwater leaking through the roof. For Gods sake, find a solution for us. Weve had enough, he said. In the summer there was intense heat and we could bear it, but in the winter we are drowning. UN says Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals push health system to brink of collapse JERUSALEM The U.N. Human Rights Office says Israels attacks on and around hospitals have pushed Gazas health system to the brink of total collapse and may have violated international law. Israeli forces have besieged and raided at least 10 hospitals across Gaza since the start of the war, some of them multiple times. Israel accuses Hamas militants of using health facilities for military purposes but has provided little evidence. Last week, Israeli troops raided Kamal Adwan Hospital in isolated northern Gaza and detained its director. The army said it apprehended 240 suspected militants. The U.N. report released Tuesday said it documented 136 strikes on at least 27 hospitals and 12 other medical facilities from Oct. 12, 2023 to June 30, 2024. This report graphically details the destruction of the health care system in Gaza, and the extent of killing of patients, staff, and other civilians in these attacks in blatant disregard for international humanitarian and human rights law, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said in a statement. The report noted Israels allegations and that hospitals lose their protection under international law if they are used for military purposes. But it said insufficient information has so far been made available to substantiate these allegations, which have remained vague and broad, and in some cases appear contradicted by publicly available information. Israel has long dismissed such allegations from U.N. bodies, which it says are biased against it. The nearly 15-month war, ignited by Hamas Oct. 7, 2023 attack into Israel, has forced most of Gazas hospitals to close and left the rest only partially functioning. (NewsNation) The number of immigrants who entered the country illegally and then struggled to find housing in sanctuary cities contributed to a record number of Americans who experienced homelessness in 2024, according to a new report. Data released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development shows that more than 770,000 people struggle with finding a place to stay across the country on a single night. The report also indicates that the percentage of Hispanics dealing with homelessness grew by one-third over the past year and the unsheltered population among Latinos was twice that of the national average, due largely to increased migrant populations in cities like New York, Denver and Chicago. The 18% increase in the nations unsheltered population was the largest year-over-year jump since HUD began tracking homelessness in 2007, The New York Times reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge blocks Biden admin from selling border wall materials That surge is connected to the number of immigrants and asylum-seekers who were sent to sanctuary cities by GOP Texas Gov. Greg Abbott after they entered the country illegally, HUD data shows. Immigration advocates in New York, Chicago and Denver pushed federal officials to expedite work permit applications for immigrants to allow migrants to be able to better qualify for housing. However, while some illegal immigrants may be finding work of some sort as they settle into these cities, immigration attorney Rolando Vazquez told NewsNation that even if migrants obtain work permits, the competition for lower-paying jobs is so high that they still face a challenge to make ends meet. Many of them are going to be competing for the same, limited jobs so many of them still wont be able to work, Vazquez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The HUD report indicated that migration had a notable effect on family homelessness, which increased by 39% in the past year. In addition to the migrant crisis, the HUD report cited several reasons for the jump in those experiencing homelessness. Data shows that the end of COVID-19 pandemic-era measures that were designed to protect those in need also contributed to the increase, The New York Times reported. In Chicago, migrants who arrived in the city from the southern border were forced to live in the lobby of local police precincts due to a lack of space in local migrant shelters. Chicago, New York and Denver also saw many immigrants resort to living in tent communities after they reached time limits for living in city-run shelters. Mexican officials dismantle migrant encampment in Matamoros Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City and federal officials do not track the immigration status of the unsheltered. However, since President Joe Biden issued an executive order regarding border security, immigration officials have cited significant drops in illegal border crossings. Officials in sanctuary cities have also said that they have seen buses of immigrants being sent from the border drop since the summer. In response, Chicago city officials announced in the fall that the city will end its new arrivals mission at the end of the year. The city announced a One System Initiative in which its legacy shelter program and shelters for migrants would be combined. The city announced that its remaining migrant shelters will be shuttered by the end of December. The announcement came before announcing that city and census data suggest that an estimated 76,375 residents were experiencing homelessness in 2022. Cites like New York, Chicago and San Diego began closing tent communities in the fall. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said that he did not want to appear heavy-handed or insensitive to those who had been living in tents. However, he said that tent encampments are illegal and that the sweeps of tent communities were being made to improve the lives of all New York City residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These operations will help improve the quality of life of all New Yorkers who use the public space, particularly those who remain in our care nearby, city spokesperson Liz Garcia said. We will continue to prioritize public safety while also providing individuals with the resources they need to pursue the American Dream. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) Two Venezuelan men allegedly attacked and killed an immigration agent on Monday in the border state of Chihuahua, Mexicos National Immigration Institute (INM) said. INM said the agent was attacked at about 12:30 p.m. at a checkpoint in Samalayuca, which is about 25 miles south of Juarez. Officials said the agent asked the migrants for identification before being attacked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency did not provide details about the attack. According to the Chihuahua State Police, emergency crews found the agent dead with an injury to the head and other signs of violence. INM said local, state and federal authorities arrested three men in connection with the attack about three hours later. The Chihuahua State Police, however, said only two men were arrested. They were identified as Carlos A. S., 36; and David Jose V., 29, both of Venezuela. State police released photos of the arrest of the two men. Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chihuahua state police also identified the agent as Luis Alberto Olivas, who worked for INM for 30 years. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) Pakistani security forces in 2024 suffered the highest casualties in nearly a decade while battling insurgency, an Islamabad-based research group said. The Center for Research and Security Studies said in its report Tuesday that this year was the deadliest for Pakistani security forces in 9 years. On average, nearly seven lives were lost daily, according to the report which tallied at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data was released as militants mounted separate attacks on Tuesday on a security post, a government office and a police van in the country's restive northwest, which borders Afghanistan, killing a policeman, and two civilians, including a child. An officer was also wounded in the first attack at the Draban Post in Dera Ismail Khan, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, local police official Abdullah Khan said, adding that the civilian was an employee of the Customs department. A child was killed in the second attack when a roadside bomb went off outside a government office in South Waziristan, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a police official Hayat Khan said. Also Tuesday, a roadside bomb struck a police vehicle in the northwestern Bannu district, wounding seven people, police said. No one claimed responsibility for the attacks, but suspicion was likely to fall on the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, who often target security forces across the country, especially in the former tribal regions in the troubled northwest bordering Afghanistan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Center for Research and Security Studies said its latest report was based on data collected from open sources, mainly media outlets. In Pakistan, the military doesnt regularly confirm causalities among troops. Equally alarming were the cumulative losses of civilians and security personnel, i.e. 1612 fatalities, accounting for over 63% of the total recorded this year and marking 73% more losses compared to 934 outlaws eliminated, it said. Abdullah Khan, the managing director of the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, released a report on Tuesday documenting the deteriorating law and order situation, saying Pakistan witnessed a 40% surge in militant attacks in 2024 compared to 2023." He said officers killed 950 militants this year, while 527 security forces and 489 civilians died in militant attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no immediate comment from the military on either report. Last week, military spokesman Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif told a news conference that 925 insurgents were killed in 2024, a record high compared to the past five years, while 383 soldiers were killed in such operations. He also said Pakistani security forces this year conducted 59,775 operations against insurgents in the country. Pakistan in recent months has stepped up intelligence-based operations against the Pakistani Taliban, emboldened since the Afghan Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP is a separate group but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban. ___ Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Rasool Dawar in Peshawar and Ishtiaq Mahsid in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, contributed to this report A second straight year with a significant drop in homicides in Milwaukee has done little to soften the pain for families impacted by the worst kind of violence. The city is on pace for just under 140 homicides this year, according to data from the Milwaukee Police Department and Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office. That's a hefty drop from the COVID-19 pandemic era, when there were about 215 in 2022 and about 172 in 2023, but still lags behind the years prior to that period. Theres work that still needs to happen in order to make sure that fewer and fewer people lose their life in Milwaukee, said Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city's decline in killings is little reprieve to families like the Bateses, however. That's because Piffany Bates thought she would grow old with her sister Clarissla. But on August 3, an argument at a bonfire instead led to her watching someone shoot and end her sisters life right in front of her. Now, Piffany and her mother Deborah are determined to not let her name disappear and for justice to be found. This is all new, my only sister, my big sister," Piffany said. "I'm hurting." The Bates family joins the over 130 families in Milwaukee who are left with voids in their lives from homicides this year. It leaves families wondering what they can do and, for many, its a fight for justice and remembrance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, the daughter and mother spoke at the annual Milwaukee Homicide Candlelight Vigil at the Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church, which remembers the years victims and gives families a chance to speak of their loved ones. It's been held since 1992. Justice could be within reach for Bates family, with a suspect, John Bowie, arrested and going through court currently. Whatever I got to do to get justice for my sister, I am," she said. The 2024 data could fluctuate as police continue to investigate deaths. For example, incidents could later be classified as self-defense, which would result in the figure declining. Milwaukee leaders say more needs to be done Through much of the year, city leaders have positioned the citys crime numbers as moving in the right direction and the year's decline in homicides show thats true. Homicides, while an imperfect metric, are the weightiest benchmark, because it has the worst possible outcome: death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent data, through early November, from the Milwaukee Homicide Review Commission shows there have been 17 victims of homicides who are 17 or younger. That same dataset shows that the most common victim is between the ages of 18 to 29. Beyond homicides, non-fatal shootings followed similarly, with there being about 640 in 2024, according to police data. That's down 24% from last year and down 27% from two years ago. The year's number of homicides leave the city still short of 2019 counts, the last year before homicides jumped significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. That year, the city saw 99 homicides, part of a four-year streak of declining deaths. The spike in the following years reaching a peak of 215 in 2022 was largely attributed by experts and public officials to the pandemic. Experts have long attributed homicides and other violent crimes as disproportionately affecting those facing problems such as poverty, segregation and limited opportunity, all factors exacerbated during that period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comparing the city's homicides to prior years is a non-starter for Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. He said he looks instead to the outcomes of the department's work in the streets and the department's efforts to be transparent in showing the city's crime statistics, prompting better discussion of how to address it. "It's a, I will say, an easy argument, but I don't believe it has merit," he said. "I don't want 2019 numbers. I don't want 2018 numbers. I look for 0. One is too many." Milwaukee Mayor Johnson said he was pleased with the city's progress, but said focus needs to remain on crime prevention efforts. Those include things like the city's Camp Rise, new county projects like Advance Peace and community organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is promising about this year is the decline in areas of the city where homicides have been historically higher are outpacing the city's overall decline, said Constance Kostelac, the director of Milwaukees Homicide Review Commission and a professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin. She said those declines are part of multiyear trend, indicating that homicides are likely not decreasing by chance. Neighborhoods like Harambee, North Division, Sherman Park saw decreases of over 30%, with some reaching up to 40%, according to the college's data. Those are part of the area covered by the Violence Response Public Health and Safety Team, or VR-PHAST, a cross-agency violence response initiative, which saw similar decreases, Kostelac said. "To know that we're seeing decreases in areas that historically have the really high concentrations, I think, shows that something fundamental is shifting in what's occurring," Kostelac said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Sunday's vigil, one speaker noted how crime is as bad as it's ever been in the city. That dynamic, the perception of crime versus what data shows, is something public officials frequently reckon with. The lived reality is something that can't be understated, said Reggie Moore, the director of violence prevention policy and engagement for the Medical College of Wisconsin. Moore said 2025 needs to be a year where efforts "intensify" to address shootings involving young people in the city. If youve lost a brother, a mother, a cousin or a child that level of pain and hurt and loss is something no family should have to experience, Moore said, noting practitioners in the community handle that nuance well. Families want loved ones' names remembered This year's violence didn't stop for any reason, regardless of age or time of year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yvette Adams remembered her grandson Zane McAtee-Adams, a 6-year-old boy who was beaten to death in August, as smart and observant. He once noticed his little sister having a plastic bottle cap in her mouth, perhaps saving her from choking. His caretaker, a woman who dated his father, is accused in the homicide. Violence continued even the week of Christmas, when two double homicides occurred in Milwaukee. One occurred the morning of the holiday and killed two teenagers, Nayah Vasquez, 18, and 15-year-old Exziel Rivera. Earlier in the week, two others were shot, Deontay Long, 24, and Rodney Walls, 36. On Dec. 27, charges were filed against Valentin Samuel Santana in the double homicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For others, the pursuit of justice remains ongoing as does the desire to keep their name alive. At Sunday's vigil, among the speakers was Tanya Green, the mother of Amera Wallace. Wallace died during a mass shooting in July at Milwaukee's Dineen Park. Green spoke of her frustrations with the investigation and of local politicians. "Can y'all keep me in prayer and everybody say long life Amera Wallace," the mother said before she stopped speaking. These tragedies leave families grieving and, in Thomas Donald's words, "hanging on by a thread." The brother of Marvin Davis, who died on July 11 in Milwaukee, Donald joined his mother at the front of Ephesians church on Sunday to speak during the vigil. It has left the family hurting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the service, he joined his mother and spoke of the pain he's felt. I didnt want my mother to go up and cry alone, Donald said of why he spoke. Before Donald and other family members spoke, Mayor Johnson addressed the crowd. He spoke of a "fact of life," that there are more guns than people in America. To address that, he urged attendees to reach out to young men, the most common victims and suspects in homicides. He urged people to try to talk them out of using firearms to resolve conflict and to receive proper training on guns as well. "How would you feel if somebody hurt your mother, if somebody hurt your father, somebody hurt your niece or nephew or child? Think about that," Johnson said. "That's the sort of pain that the families in this sanctuary are feeling right now and it's unjust." David Clarey can be reached at dclarey@gannett.com Alison Dirr of the Journal Sentinel contributed to story. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee homicides dipped for second straight year in 2024 A 27-year-old Milwaukee man faces charges of first-degree reckless homicide in the shootings of two men last week. The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office filed charges against Valentin Samuel Santana, of Milwaukee, on Friday in connection to the shooting of Deontay Long, 24, and Rodney Walls, 36. The criminal complaint details police arrested Santana following a car chase on Interstate 94, before he crashed and was apprehended attempting to further flee on foot. Walls and Long were shot and killed on Dec. 23 at 3839 W. Nash St., the Milwaukee Police Department said in an initial news release. Authorities confirmed on Christmas Day they had arrested a suspect in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Journal Sentinel has not been able to reach the family of Long and the family of Walls declined comment. The criminal complaint details police received a 911 call in the shooting at 1:35 p.m., after someone heard gunshots. When officers arrived, they found Long and Walls shot, with Long's car crashed into a street pole. Police recovered $400 and cocaine and fentanyl from Walls, according to the complaint. Other prior footage showed Long driving his car to a home, knocking on a door, with Santana, who is referred to as "Tino," later coming out, according to the criminal complaint. Prosecutors write that an argument can be overheard occurring in the car and the footage shows the car pulling out with the three men inside of it. Police later reviewed home security footage, which showed Santana running from the area of Long's crashed car with a firearm in his hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that day, at about 8:10 p.m. police attempted to pull over a car with Santana in it, according to the criminal complaint. The defendant was in the passenger's seat and leaped into the driver's seat, pulling away. A subsequent 9-mile chase reached speeds of over 100 miles per hour, with it ending when Santana crashed on I-94. Santana is due for a preliminary hearing in the case on Jan. 3. He is currently in Milwaukee County jail on $300,000 bail. Santana faces five charges in connection to last week's shooting. In addition to the two homicide charges, he faces a charge of possession of a firearm by a felon; first-degree recklessly endangering safety; and operating a motor vehicle to flee in an attempt or attempt to elude an officer. Santana also has prior felony convictions from 2022 for fleeing police and second-degree recklessly endangering safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Clarey can be reached at dclarey@gannett.com. This story was updated to correct a misspelling. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee man charged in double homicide, car chase on I-94 Arizonas minimum wage is increasing again, starting on Jan. 1, and the state hasnt gone bankrupt, as so many pro-business folks decried. The new minimum wage will go up to $14.70 per hour, an increase of 35 cents, to help keep pace with the cost of living. That may not sound like a lot, but dont forget that if it was left up to business owners and their pals, those workers would still be getting $8.05 per hour the wage when voters approved a hike in 2016. Voters had the courage to stand up for workers Thank goodness voters had the wisdom to ignore those alarmists who told us an annual hourly wage increase would result in huge job losses, higher consumer prices, and diminished and state and local revenue collections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of that has happened at any scale, and the youngest and poorest workers at minimum-wage jobs can take home a few more bucks. Opinion: Arizona will lose if it follows California's wage hike I get that capitalism often makes it financially suitable and politically expedient to squeeze workers to the max at the lowest possible cost. Dont ever forget, though, that the people ultimately have the power in a democratic society. We just must have the courage to take a stand for workers, as Arizona voters did in 2016 and again this year when they rejected Proposition 138. That measure would have allowed employers to pay tipped workers 25% less than the hourly minimum wage. Federal minimum wage remains stuck. Ours is not Lets never forget who defied the odds and challenged Arizonas most powerful to help minimum wage earners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They include Living United for Change in Arizona, which led the 2016 minimum wage hike campaign, as well as folks like U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton (who was Phoenix mayor at the time) and Fair Trade Cafe owner Stephanie Vasquez. They werent afraid to back the hourly wage hike. The federal hourly minimum wage remains at $7.25 with no prospects of changing anytime soon, especially with a trifecta Republican government. The lesson here is that we, the people, have the power to say otherwise. Lets never forget to use it. Elvia Diaz is editorial page editor for The Arizona Republic and azcentral. Reach her at 602-444-8606 or elvia.diaz@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, (formerly Twitter), @elviadiaz1. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona minimum wage increase is 35 cents - and a big deal | Opinion BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- It's said genetics are the key to unlocking life's secrets, and one Chinese company is picking the lock. Its nanopore sequencers could be used in everything from food safety to cancer cures and pandemic prevention. Xinhua's Miao Xiaojuan and British life science expert Andrew Hutchins meet the young scientists at Qitan Tech to learn more! A Miao Xiaojuan Studio Film A Xinhua News Agency Production SAINT SIMONS ISLAND, S.C. (WSAV) A man was found dead Monday morning after being reported missing on Thursday, Glynn County Police said. Carlos Eduardo Padilla, 24, of Louisiana was reported missing on Dec. 26, police said. He was in Glynn County on a work assignment. Padilla was found on Old Demere Road on Saint Simons Island by workers from a pool cleaning service. There is no known connection between Padilla or the home where he was found and its undetermined if foul play was involved, police said. Glynn County Police said that family members and co-workers said Padilla had been acting erratically prior to finding him on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being reported missing, GCPD said they immediately began to search for him. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation Medical Examiners Office will be conducting an autopsy. This investigation is ongoing and any person with information on this case is encouraged to contact the Glynn County Police Department Non-Emergency at (912) 554-3645 or anonymously via Silent Witness at (912) 264-1333. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. NEW YORK (PIX11) Free education, six-figure jobs, and affordable housing are just a few of the topics of discussion on this months Monica Makes It Happen Show. New York City is partnering with the Metropolitan College of New York to help city workers go back to school and get their high school diploma and college credit for free. More Local News Louis Molina, the commissioner of the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services, and Dr. Charles Gibbs, the president of the Metropolitan College of New York, joined the show to discuss the partnership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, Molina is hiring. He is in charge of the citys workforce of 300,000. He said there are 3,000 jobs open, including 1,200 jobs that are paying in the six figures. Meryl Block Weissman, the deputy commissioner for housing access and stability with the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, joined the show to discuss an affordable housing lottery currently open in Brooklyn. Melanie Hartzog, the president and CEO of the New York Foundling, also joined this months Monica Makes It Happen Show. The New York Foundling has three new buildings helping families across New York City with affordable housing. If you need help, reach out to Monica Morales at monica@pix11.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. (WTAJ) Nearly 214,000 Pennsylvania residents could see a nearly 20% increase in their gas bill in 2025 if a proposed rate increase is approved. National Fuel submitted an increase proposal to the Pennsylvania Utilities Commission (PUC) looking to raise its rates by 18.46% for residential customers. If approved, the average residential bill would increase by roughly $161.90 a year, the company said. The increase would begin on Aug. 1, 2025, and continue through July 2026, according to a release from National Fuel. The company said the reason behind the increase is that costs associated with supplying natural gas are projected to be higher than current rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By law, utility companies in Pennsylvania must submit all proposed rate increases to the PUC. From there, the commission will look at requests and require the asking company to provide evidence as to why the increase is needed. The PUC will then decide to approve or deny it. In rare instances, the PUC may also force a utility provider to lower their prices depending on various factors. Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices. Between New York and Pennsylvania, National Fuel supplies natural gas to 2.2 million customers, the company said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. More than one pub a day closed in 2024 as the hospitality industry battles higher taxes and more people working from home. A total of 412 pubs shut their doors over the last 12 months in England and Wales, according to consultancy Altus Group, up from 386 the year prior. This represented the largest number of closures since 2021, when pub bosses were still struggling with the effects of the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest batch of closures mean more than 2,000 pubs have disappeared since 2019, taking the total tally across England and Wales to 39,000, the lowest number on record. However, worse could still be to come after Rachel Reevess record tax-raising Budget. Alex Probyn, a consultant at Altus Group, said: Many publicans that I speak to are extremely worried that this could be their last Christmas given the combination of hiking the amount employers will have to pay in National Insurance, increases to the minimum wage and the business rates discount being slashed from 75pc to 40pc in 2025. Many pubs simply will no longer be viable, making plots even more attractive for alternative investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pressure on landlords is rising after the Chancellor increased employer National Insurance rates from 13.8pc to 15pc and lowered the threshold at which they start being paid from 9,100 to 5,000. The latter has dealt a significant blow to the hospitality sector given it relies heavily on part-time staff. London falling The geographical split of pub closures revealed that London lost 55 pubs last year, more than any other region. It takes the total in the capital down to 3,470, marking a drop of 1.6pc. Altus Group said working from home was a factor in the capital, as pubs suffered from a drop in footfall among office workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The smallest number of closures was in the north east of England, which lost 12 pubs 0.6pc of its total taking the regions venue count down to 1,920. It comes amid fears that beers are being watered down following recent tax changes. More than a dozen brewers have cut the strength of their beers in the past two years, ranging from Grolsch to Old Speckled Hen and Spitfire. Lower-alcohol beers are in high demand among health-conscious drinkers, while a new tax system introduced by the Conservatives has meant lower strength beers are taxed less. A Treasury spokesman said: We delivered a once-in-a-lifetime Budget to stabilise the public finances and fix the foundations of our crumbling public services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To protect our pubs, we are introducing a permanent, new lower business rate in 2026, and more than half of employers will either see a cut or no change in their National Insurance bills while employers of lower paid employees will typically pay less per employee. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Joggers exercise on a dark street in San Juan, Puerto Rico, after a major power outage hit the island on Dec. 31, 2024. RICARDO ARDUENGO via Getty Images Most Puerto Ricans woke up on New Years Eve to widespread electricity blackouts, the latest consequence of a crumbling power grid that was destroyed by Hurricane Maria in 2017 and never fully restored by the private companies that took it over. More than 1.2 million of 1.47 million clients were without power, according to LUMA energy, the private company that took over electricity distribution in the U.S. territory in 2021. The company said on its social media channels that the cause of the outage was under investigation but preliminary findings point to a fault in an underground cable. They said it would take 24-48 hours to restore power and would provide updates every two hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Josue Colon, head of Puerto Ricos electric energy authority, told the Telemundo network it could take several days to fully restore service, CBS News reported. Residential buildings are seen in the dark in San Juan after a major power outage hit the island. RICARDO ARDUENGO via Getty Images Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said the government is in contact with LUMA and Genera PR, the private company in charge of power generation. We are demanding answers and solutions from both LUMA and Genera, he wrote in a social media post. Power outages have been a significant cause of stress and frustration for Puerto Ricans the last few years. People have taken to the streets to protest the privatization deals and expressed their outrage on social media. San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero issued a state of emergency over the power outages in June in the middle of a hot summer. Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny drew attention to the issue in 2022 with his music video for El Apagon, which features a documentary on the issues Puerto Rico faces at the end of it. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) The mother of five children killed in a fire at a home on Dartmouth Avenue in Buffalo on New Years Eve in 2022 has filed a lawsuit against the owners of the home. The suit, filed in Erie County State Supreme Court on Monday, alleges that the fire was the result of fault, negligence and carelessness of the defendants, who are identified as Fazlul Chowdhury of Niagara Falls and Razia Chowdhury of Jamaica, N.Y. The suit also identifies John Doe 1-John Doe 5 who are not currently known but may become known during the case. Kenise Robinsons five children: Aniyah Green, 10, Joelle Liggans, 8, Jalissa Liggans, 7, Denise Keith, 4, and Nehemiah Robinson, 2, all died in the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5 children dead after Saturday fire on Dartmouth Avenue The childrens grandmother, 63-year-old Lisa Liggans, died in March 2023 from injuries suffered in the fire. She had carried a 7-month-old out of the home, who was later released from ECMC a few days later. The children had been in the care of their grandparents. The suit alleges that the children were unable to escape the home during the fire, which started in the dining room area. It says that the children were caused to endure severe and life ending injuries, physical pain, suffering and mental anguish, fear of impending death, and loss of enjoyment from life from the time of the ignition of the house fire until the time of their deaths. Robinson is seeking an amount which exceeds the jurisdictional limits of all lowers courts which otherwise have jurisdiction. Latest Local News Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The mother of a 1-year-old child who is now presumed dead after being missing for months has now been charged with their death. Wendy Pamela Bailey, 22, was arrested Monday and charged with aggravated child abuse, first-degree domestic violence, abuse of a corpse and criminally negligent homicide in the death of Kahleb Collins. Collins was not reported missing until after his father Steven Collins, and his 2-year-old daughter, Ryleigh Collins, had been killed in a car accident along County Road 73 in Fayette County on Dec. 9. Bailey was hurt in the crash and airlifted to UAB Hospital for treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Collins death, police began searching for Kahleb Collins, whom police report had not been seen since Sept. 9. John Bailey, Kahleb Collins grandfather, has since been arrested and charged with failing to report his disappearance. As of Monday, Kahleb Collins has yet to be found, although he is now presumed to be dead, law enforcement report. This investigation has been particularly challenging as it involved the tragic deaths of two young children, 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin said in a statement. I want to commend the efforts and cooperation shown by every agency involved: the Fayette County Sheriffs Office, Alabama Bureau of Investigation and the Alabama State Troopers. Bailey is currently in the Fayette County Jail. Further charges may be pending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that the charges have been brought, I look forward to getting the case to court to seek justice for these two innocent children, Hamlin said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. A 40-year-old mother was one of six people shot in a New York City convenience store when one of the suspected targets of a "brazen and heartless attack" used her as a human shield, authorities said. The two gunmen who opened fire on a group of people Monday evening in the crowded convenience store in the New York borough of the Bronx remained at large Tuesday morning as investigators worked to identify them, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD). The mother, whose name was not released, suffered a bullet wound to her stomach and her 12-year-old daughter was shot in the leg during the incident that also left four men with gunshot wounds, NYPD Interim Chief of Department John Chell said at a news conference Monday evening outside the G&W Grocery, where the shooting occurred. PHOTO: New York Police Department investigators search for evidence outside a convenience store in the Bronx, New York, Dec. 30, 2024. (WABC) "We had a brazen and heartless attack by two shooters who opened fire in the middle of the street and into a crowded convenience store, striking six people," Chell said. "The mother was used as a shield by the intended targets of the shooting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident unfolded at around 5 p.m. when uniformed patrol officers received numerous reports of shots being fired on a group of people gathered in front of the store, Chell said. Chell said security video reviewed by investigators captured the two alleged gunmen running across the street outside the convenience store, firing multiple rounds at several people gathered outside the store. The shooters kept firing as some of the intended targets of the shooting ran inside the store, Chell said. Watch as NYPD executives provide an update on an ongoing investigation in The Bronx. https://t.co/pLZeCcPgHg NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 30, 2024 The mother and her daughter were standing at the store's counter when the individuals being fired upon rushed inside as the front windows of the store were shattered by the gunfire, Chell said, who added that the store was crowded at the time of the shooting. In what Chell described as a "cowardly" act, he said one of the men targeted by the alleged shooters bumped into the mother, grabbed her and placed her in front of him, causing her to be shot in the stomach. PHOTO: New York Police Department investigators search for evidence outside a convenience store in the Bronx, New York, Dec. 30, 2024. (WABC) The two alleged gunmen, one wearing a black Nike sweatsuit and the other dressed in a gray hooded sweatshirt, fled the scene on foot, Chell said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chell said that investigators were questioning the four men who were shot, who ranged in age from 18 to 21, to determine if any of them were among the group of people targeted by the two alleged shooters. MORE: US poised to see dramatic drop in homicides for 3rd straight year Chell said a motive for the shooting is under investigation. PHOTO: NYPD Interim Chief Of Department John Chell, middle, speaks at a news conference on Dec. 30, 2024. (NYPD via X) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witness Beverly Taylor told ABC New York City station WABC that the grocery store and the sidewalk in front of it were bustling with people when the gunfire erupted at rush hour. "There were 10 to 15 shots I heard and I just dropped to the ground," Taylor said. Taylor said she didn't see who was doing to the shooting, but in the aftermath she saw the young girl who was shot. MORE: Canadian man arrested after attacking TSA officers and others at Miami airport "Whoever shot these people, they had no regard for human life," said Jamal Wilson, who works at a nearby business. "It puts fear in us. Because now we can't really come outside. I do deliveries. I don't know if it's safe for me to do a delivery tomorrow." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest NYPD crime statistics show that the number of shooting incidents across the city in 2024 decreased nearly 8% from 2023, while the number of shooting victims, which numbered 1,150, decreased 5.1% from the year before. "Those numbers mean nothing when you see a horrific incident like that," New York City Mayor Eric Adams said during a news conference Tuesday. Adams added, "It is clear we're going to find everyone that's responsible and bring them to justice." Mother used as human shield in New York City shooting that injured 6 people: Police originally appeared on abcnews.go.com (COLORADO SPRINGS) The El Paso County Coroners Office has identified the motorcyclist who died in a fatal crash near the Broadmoor World Arena on Christmas Eve. On Tuesday morning, Dec. 24 at around 9 a.m., the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) was dispatched to Cheyenne Meadows Road and Venetucci Boulevard regarding a crash involving a car and a motorcycle. Upon arrival, they found the motorcyclist dead on scene. Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott The driver of the car was not injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to the nature of the crash, the Major Crash Team was notified and responded to the scene. The crash is still under investigation, and speed appears to be a contributing factor. The Coroners Office identified the motorcyclist as 19-year-old Dominic Gatlin on Thursday, Dec. 26. This was the 47th traffic fatality in Colorado Springs in 2024. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. Droves of people showed up at Carter Presidential Center on Monday to pay their respects to former President Jimmy Carter. Ekrem Dimbiloglu remembers Carters impact from his childhood years. President Carter is just a decent man and was a role model for so many young folks, me included when I was growing up. I think we need more folks like President Carter, Dimbiloglu said. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Elizabeth Omilami with Hosea Helps was witness to the relationship Jimmy Carter had with her father, civil rights activist Hosea Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They came together on the things they agreed on and the things they didnt they had spirited conversations about it and remained friends, said Omilami who recalls one of her key memories of Carter was right after the Carter Center opened. I was looking for the tour guide. Well, the tour guide was President Jimmy Carter. I was just shocked, remembered Omilami. When it comes to the Carter Center, Dr. Kenneth Stein was one of the original Carter Center employees. He worked with the former president in the 80s, traveling to the Middle East with him many times and meeting with international leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He remembers times where Carter was full of humor, but other times he described him as frustrating because he was so self-assured. Throughout his life, Carter believed and he truly believed that if a subsequent president asked him to be the mediator on the Middle East, he believed he could make it happen. He had so much confidence in his ability because he had done it once with Begin and Sadat he thought he could do it again, Stein said. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Tourists take photos of red-billed gulls on a tour boat at the Donghu Lake scenic spot in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Dec. 31, 2024. A large number of wintering red-billed gulls arrived in Donghu Lake scenic spot recently, attracting lots of tourists. (Xinhua/Hu Jingwen) An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 29, 2024 shows red-billed gulls flying near a tour boat at the Donghu Lake scenic spot in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. A large number of wintering red-billed gulls arrived in Donghu Lake scenic spot recently, attracting lots of tourists. (Xinhua/Hu Jingwen) An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 29, 2024 shows red-billed gulls flying near a tour boat at the Donghu Lake scenic spot in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. A large number of wintering red-billed gulls arrived in Donghu Lake scenic spot recently, attracting lots of tourists. (Xinhua/Hu Jingwen) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows red-billed gulls flying at the Donghu Lake scenic spot in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. A large number of wintering red-billed gulls arrived in Donghu Lake scenic spot recently, attracting lots of tourists. (Xinhua/Hu Jingwen) An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 29, 2024 shows red-billed gulls flying at the Donghu Lake scenic spot in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. A large number of wintering red-billed gulls arrived in Donghu Lake scenic spot recently, attracting lots of tourists. (Xinhua/Hu Jingwen) WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Police are investigating a homicide after a man entered a police station in Northeast D.C. with a stab wound and died on New Years Eve. According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), just after 1 a.m. on Dec. 31, a call came in for a stabbing. A few moments later, police said a man, who had been stabbed, walked into the police station on Hayes Street and collapsed in the lobby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two seriously injured after fire raged through DC apartment building Officers and medics tried to save the man, but he died. He was later identified as 24-year-old Joziah Thurman, of Northeast, DC. Throughout the investigation, homicide detectives learned Thurman was stabbed inside a home in the 800 block of 49th St. NE. This is about a three-minute walk to the police station on Hayes Street. Anyone with information is asked to call MPD at 202-727-9099 or text the police departments tip line at 50411. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has taken over an investigation of a pedestrian that was struck and killed in St. Louis County Monday evening. According to officials, the accident took place near Manchester and North Sappington Roads just before 7:15 p.m. Kirkwood police officers were the first to arrive at the scene, although the accident occurred in the Glendale jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police have now asked the Missouri State Highway Patrol to take over the investigation. No further details have been released yet. This is a developing story. More will be posted as it comes into the FOX 2 newsroom. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Dec. 31 (UPI) -- New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority said it will begin congestion pricing tolling on Sunday despite New Jersey officials claiming that a U.S. district judge's ruling disallows the plan. While federal judge Leo Gordon said the MTA and the Federal Highway Administration acted in "an arbitrary and capricious manner" in its funding of North Jersey in the MTA mitigation plan, he declined to issue an injunction on it, as well. Gordon told the Federal Highway Administration to return to him on Jan. 17 with new details on how to fairly share mitigation money with North Jersey counties such as Bergen County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling left both sides claiming victory, but the ruling did not put the brakes on the plan, leaving New Jersey officials with the task of trying again for an injunction to stop it. New Jersey officials said that, despite the lack of an injunction, congestion pricing should not go live until the state is guaranteed its fair share. "We welcome the court's ruling today in the congestion pricing lawsuit," New Jersey attorney Randy Mastro said, according to NBC News. "Because of New Jersey's litigation, the judge has ordered a remand, and the MTA therefore cannot proceed with implementing the current congestion pricing proposal on Jan. 5." Supporters of congestion price tolling are trying to beat the clock since President-elect Donald Trump has sounded off against it and has promised to end it sometime after he retakes the Oval Office on Jan. 20. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A heavy presence of crews from the Dayton Fire Department and AES Ohio has been reported in Dayton. Our 2 NEWS crew in the 4300 block of Owens Drive reported numerous vehicles from both organizations are visible. Firefighters were sent to several homes for electrical-feed issues, according to a social media post. WDTN Photo/Matt Channels Mary Ann Kabel, director of corporate communications at AES Ohio, told 2 NEWS that the cause is currently under investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story is developing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. (Bloomberg) -- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his deputy, Robert Habeck, used their New Year addresses to castigate Elon Musk over his backing for a far-right party in Februarys snap election. Most Read from Bloomberg Musk, a key adviser and major donor to US President-elect Donald Trump, has repeatedly praised the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany in recent weeks on his social media platform X. He expanded on his support for the party, known by its German acronym AfD, in an opinion piece published over the weekend by Welt am Sonntag newspaper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz, a center-left Social Democrat who Musk has regularly mocked, didnt mention the South Africa-born entrepreneur by name but emphasized that the Feb. 23 ballot will be decided by German voters and not by the owners of social media channels. One can be forgiven for sometimes thinking that the more extreme an opinion is, the more attention it will garner, Scholz said, according to the text of his address to be televised Tuesday evening. But it wont be the person who yells loudest who will decide where Germany goes from here, he added. Rather, that will be up to the vast majority of reasonable and decent people. Habeck, who is running as the chancellor candidate for the Greens, accused Musk of seeking to weaken Europe as part of a bid to undermine regulations that impact his business empire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Elon Musk equipped not only with billions upon billions, but also with unbridled communication power calls for the AfD to be elected in Germany, it is not out of ignorance of the AfD, it has logic and system, Habeck said. A weak Europe is in the interests of those for whom regulation is an unreasonable limit to their power, he added. But there needs to be a limitation on power. No business model should be allowed to destroy our democracy. Scholz triggered the early election seven months before the scheduled end of his four-year term when he fired his finance minister in early November, effectively stripping himself of a majority in the lower house of parliament. With less than two months until the vote, the main opposition conservatives under Friedrich Merz have a comfortable lead in opinion polls, with the AfD in second place and Scholzs SPD party third. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merzs center-right CDU/CSU bloc has about 31% support, according to the latest Bloomberg polling average, with the AfD at around 20%, the SPD 17% and the Greens 12% in fourth. Since it was founded in 2013, the AfD has moved progressively toward the extreme right, garnering increasing support among voters disillusioned with mainstream parties, particularly in the former communist eastern regions. Three state chapters of the party in eastern Germany are officially classified as right-wing extremist and are under enhanced surveillance by the domestic intelligence services. As well as seeking to drastically curb immigration, the AfD wants Germany to exit the European Union, cut aid to Ukraine and restore ties with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite its rising support, the chances of it getting into government at the federal level remain close to zero as all other parties refuse to cooperate with it. Germanys head of state, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, has also chided Musk over his expressions of support for the AfD. In a statement last week confirming the election date, Steinmeier warned about the threat of external interference in the democratic process, be it covert, as was evidently the case recently during the elections in Romania, or open and blatant, as is currently being practiced particularly intensively on the X platform. Habeck, who is also the economy minister, said that to thwart efforts to undermine it, the EU must fight back by exploiting the power of the worlds largest single market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who wants to weaken us must be met with strength, he said in his address. To achieve this, the European Union must look less inward and more outward. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Elon Musk, a key megadonor in the 2024 election, has apparently decided he cant risk being away from President-elect Donald Trump for more than a few days at a time. To that end, he has since Election Day mainly resided in a cottage at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, according to a report from The New York Times. The resort cottage, which is named Banyan and sits a mere few hundred feet from the main residence, ordinarily rents for $2,000 a night. Its not known whether Musk has paid (or expects to pay) for his many sleepovers in the past two months, or if Trump is accommodating him as a personal guest, as many of Musks friends in Silicon Valley do when he visits their homes. But Trump has been known to charge exorbitantly for stays at his properties when he has the opportunity. During his many visits to Mar-a-Lago and his hotels in his first term as president, for instance, he billed the Secret Service as much as five times the government rate for agents traveling with him and his family. Of course, Musk, whos worth a reported $429 billion, shouldnt have any trouble covering inflated charges. Musks continued proximity to Trump has been a source of mockery, tension, and speculation as the worlds richest man seeks to push through his personal agenda in Trumps second term. Less than two weeks after the election, Musk reportedly had a massive blowup with a Trump adviser at a Mar-a-Lago dinner over Cabinet picks. His outsize influence over the incoming administration led to grumbling among some MAGA insiders and Democratic taunts about Musk being the actual president comments that Trump, ever covetous of the spotlight, has publicly attempted to push back against. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Trump also appeared to follow Musks lead in opposing a funding deal to avert a government shutdown earlier this month, releasing a statement condemning the bipartisan bill only after Musk repeatedly attacked it on his website X, formerly Twitter. (The House was able, at the last minute, to pass a revised bill that stripped out much of the money originally earmarked for child cancer research, provisions cracking down on junk fees from hotels and ticket sellers, and reforms that would have required so-called pharmacy benefit managers to pass on drug cost savings to insurance plans.) Trump also sided with Musk in a recent schism between the billionaires Big Tech clique and anti-immigration MAGA influencers over hiring foreign workers through the H-1B visa program. And, in a social media post two days after Christmas that was intended to be private (as Trumps own staff reportedly confirmed), the soon-to-be leader of the free world awkwardly beseeched the Tesla and SpaceX CEO to return to Mar-a-Lago after a brief absence during the holiday. Where are you? Trump wrote on Truth Social. When are you coming to the Center of the Universe, Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Years Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! DJT The x Trump missed was evidently Musks four-year-old son, X A-Xii, one of two children of the at least 11 Musk has who have stayed with their father at the club. With just weeks until Trumps inauguration, Musk is indeed likely to return to his Palm Beach bachelor pad to sit in on more meetings and calls, seeking any personal advantage during the transition of presidential power. His new commission with pharma businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been busy proposing how to gut agencies and slash regulations in order to benefit their own businesses, and those of other friends. It makes perfect sense that Musk however much he enjoys dining alongside Trump day in and out would want to ensure that his investment of a quarter-billion dollars in the 2024 campaign pays those dividends. At the same time, Musks political interests have drifted somewhat. Of late, when hes not allegedly demonetizing the Trump allies who disagree with him on X, he has trumpeted his support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has connections to neo-Nazis. Musk now contends that the AfD alone can save Germany, and on Monday declared on X that the party is going to win an epic victory! The German government has accused Musk of trying to influence its federal election in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That meddling should come as no surprise after a Trump comeback that insiders complain Musk has claimed undue credit for. Still, prioritizing an election abroad instead of U.S. policy in the next two months could further complicate his delicate and co-dependent bromance with Trump. Whatever happens, Musks final tab for the long stay at Mar-a-Lago is sure to tell the story. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) If youre planning on launching fireworks to ring in the new year, the Myrtle Beach Fire Department says there are some things you should know before you celebrate. Be cautious when you do use fireworks, Capt. Jonathan Evans, a Myrtle Beach Fire Department spokesperson, said. Understand that, if you do shoot off fireworks and it causes a fire, you are in charge of any damage that has occurred. Make sure that your neighbors are aware of what youre doing, too. Its just, kind of, courteous to do that. Fireworks are legal in the city usually until 10 p.m. However, for New Years, they are allowed from 7 a.m. New Years Eve to 12:30 a.m. New Years Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate, but they can be dangerous. Even if its just the sparklers, they dont blow up, they do get very, very hot, Evans said. It can be easy to burn yourself. Or, if you give them to your kids, we dont recommend that because, even after theyve burnt out, they still can be up to 100-plus degrees. Evans says to have two people setting off the fireworks and one person looking for safety concerns. Do not set off fireworks next to your home, in a wooded area, or near debris. If you light a firework that does not go off right away, give it some time and space. It can be on a delay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Have an extinguishing source beside you, whether it is a fire extinguisher or a hose. It depends on how big they are, whats being set off, Evans said. Having a good distance between the general crowd, for sure, but the person lighting them off. Obviously, you only have so much time to get back. So, kind of, having that plan of what youre going to do, where youre going to go, and have a contingency plan if something does happen. The weather can also affect fireworks. If its super windy, be careful where those fireworks are flying and settling, Evans said. They can be dangerous, even after they land. They can start fires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says city firefighters are on standby for the holiday. However, it is safer to enjoy fireworks at the 2nd Avenue North Pier on New Years Eve than to set off your own. There are going to be places that have these fireworks demonstrations, Evans said. I recommend going to those places because they, generally, know what theyre doing, they have really great displays and, then, you dont have to worry about the cleanup or any of the dangers that are associated with it. Fireworks at the pier start at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. * * * Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Editors note: This story has been updated to fix an incorrect headline. We apologize for the error. GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A Myrtle Beach man was held at gunpoint near a Murrells Inlet marina by two men who claimed everything in its waters belonged to them, according to a Georgetown County Sheriffs Office report. It happened at about 8:20 a.m. on Dec. 14 at the Crazy Sister marina located at 4123 Highway 17. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim told a deputy he was checking crab pots in the area of Huntington Beach State Park when he saw two people in a camouflage boat doing the same. The victim approached the men and told them the pots belonged to him. One of the individuals stated, Im from here, everything in this inlet is mine,' while a second man pointed a shotgun at him as the first man laughed. The victim said he wasnt able to get a photograph of the suspects because he feared reaching into his pockets. One of the men finished checking the crab pots and they both left in a boat between 19 and 20 feet long. The victim also contacted state Department of Natural Resources officials, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows pottery items on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows a set of jade ware on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows lacquerware on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows a set of bamboo slips on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows bronze mirrors on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows a bronze drum on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) This photo taken on Dec. 31, 2024 shows a stone sculpture on display at the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) People visit the exhibition "A Panorama of Hubei" in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Dec. 31, 2024. The exhibition opened here on Tuesday, showcasing the history and culture of Hubei in both ancient and modern times. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) Dec. 31 (UPI) -- More than 1 million people still are without electricity in Puerto Rico after a widespread power outage hit the island, according to reports. It could be up to 48 hours for power to be fully restored "as conditions permit," the energy company Luma had said Tuesday morning. More than 80% of Puerto Rico, or some 1.3 million customers, were left with no power at about 5:30 a.m. local time, the energy company Luma said on X earlier in the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its 5:30 p.m. ET update, LUMA's website showed power was restored to 13.2% of affected customers, with 194,429 total customers experiencing power. The Medical Center and the Municipal Hospital of San Juan was back in service, and the company said in its update during the day the municipality of Culebra also was in service with Genera generators. Genera PR is contracted to operate power generation units on the island. Officials at the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, meanwhile, said flights were operating normally as officials worked on its electric generators. Luma activated its emergency operations center and will provide "regular updates" every two hours, officials stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement San Juan resident Miosotis Corretjer told NBC the situation was "totally frustrating" and claimed the Puerto Rican government was not doing enough. "We are demanding answers and solutions from both Luma and Genera, who must expedite the restart of the generating units outside the fault area and keep the people duly informed about the measures they are taking to restore service throughout the Island," Gov. Pedro Pierluisi stated on social media, adding he was in contact with Luma and the private energy company Genera PR. An investigation is underway but indicators point to a failure in an underground power line at a switchyard located in Guayanilla on the southwest part of the island, El Nuevo reported. The power line in the southern part of the U.S. commonwealth island caused a "cascade effect" that led to failure of multiple power plants, which would take "much of the day" to fix, Jose Colon, director of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, said in a radio interview during the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 9:15 a.m. local time roughly 14% of Puerto Rico's 1.4 million utility customers had power, Luma Energy's tracking page showed. Shortly before 11 a.m. Luma said service had been restored in "some areas." "Luma will be restoring power to customers in phases. We've already begun the process of reenergizing some customers," the company wrote later in the morning. For Puerto Ricans the power blackouts are not a new occurrence with more than 700,000 in August likewise left with no power after tropical storm Ernesto hit the troubled U.S. territory. Meanwhile, the outgoing Biden administration invested billions of dollars over the last few years to aid the island's transition to a renewable energy grid as a means to address its ongoing power woes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Puerto Rico's electrical grid suffered a failure in November 2017 that left thousands without power after Hurricane Maria, and the entire island was left without power when Hurricane Fiona arrived in September 2022. Over the summer public protests were seen in San Juan due to growing anger over Puerto Rico's frail power grid which prompted San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero to declare a state of emergency in the capital city. In October, the U.S. Energy Department announced a more than $860M private loan guarantee for construction of solar and battery storage facilities to move the island one step closer to its 2050 energy independent goal amid a slow, global transition to clean energy like other states such as Hawaii and California. This was followed in November by $440 million to equip vulnerable homes with rooftop solar and battery systems estimated to lower energy bills for between 30,000 and 40,000 low-income, single-family households in Puerto Rico to improve household energy resilience and keep lights on during extreme weather events, according to the Energy Department. An island-wide blackout in Puerto Rico Tuesday left more than 1 million residents without power ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations, with crews working for hours throughout the day to get the lights back on. As of Tuesday night, more than 12 hours after residents woke up without power, still more than half of customers were without electricity, according to power company LUMA. By 11 p.m. local time, crews had restored power to roughly 700,000 customers, representing about 47.8% of its customers, the power company said in an update on social media platform X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The power company said both San Juan airports are in service, along with 31 hospitals. Crews also worked to energize key water facilities, the company said. In an earlier statement, LUMA apologized for the outage. "We understand the deep frustration that the blackout situation on a day like today is causing to our customers and families across the Country," the statement said. "To all, we apologize for the impact that the event, which continues to be investigated, has had on the plans to bid farewell this year and welcome the New Year." The exact cause of the power outage, which began at 5:30 a.m. local time, remains under investigation. PHOTO: A person looks through shelves inside a store as Puerto Ricans were without electricity early on New Year's Eve after a grid failure left nearly all of the island without power, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Dec. 31, 2024. (Miguel Rodriguez/Reuters) Earlier Tuesday evening, the White House issued a statement saying that President Joe Biden had been briefed on the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm spoke with the Governor of Puerto Rico and at the President's direction offered to provide any federal assistance that they need to speed power restoration," the statement said. Biden also spoke on the phone with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi to talk about the power outages and to offer federal support, according to the White House. MORE: Christmas blackouts in Ukraine after 'massive' Russian strike Pierluisi earlier said work was underway to restore the service at energy plants in San Juan and Palo Seco. The U.S. territory has continued to face a slow rebuild of its infrastructure since Hurricane Maria caused widespread damage to the island in 2017. PHOTO: Residential buildings and a hotel are seen in the dark in San Juan, Puerto Rico after a major power outage hit the island, Dec. 31, 2024. (Ricardo Arduengo/AFP via Getty Images) In 2020, 1 million customers were without power following back-to-back earthquakes. An explosion and subsequent fire at a substation left 900,000 customers on the island without power in June 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another massive fire at a major power plant caused a massive outage for about 1.3 million customers in April 2022, followed by Hurricane Fiona in September of that year. Power slowly being restored in Puerto Rico after more than 1 million left in dark in New Year's Eve blackout originally appeared on abcnews.go.com (NewsNation) A drone and a chicken cutlet helped save a puppy from a frozen New Jersey lake on Christmas. Brooklyn, 20 months old, got loose and ran to a nearby lake while being taken care of by a pet sitter. Dog sitter Kamili Williams realized she wasnt leaving the frozen lake the next day. With only a thin sheet of ice, rescue squad workers were unable to reach Brooklyn, a few falling through as they tried to push the dog toward shore with a net. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies rescue frightened kitten trapped in car engine But neighbor Kishan Patel stepped in with a solution. He offered up his drone and he and police strapped a chicken cutlet on it to try to coax Brooklyn back to the shore. Others in the community also tried to help, calling for Brooklyn and tossing treats to try to entice her to leave the lake. It took until around midnight, but eventually, a police officer was able to force Brooklyn off the ice, only to have her take off running again. On Christmas morning, Brooklyn was spotted on a neighbors porch and Williams was able to use salmon to lure her back home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An emergency vet examined Brooklyn, who was fine save for a small cut. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Law enforcement from the Miami Valley came together on Monday to pay tribute to a fallen Clark County Sheriffs deputy. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] >>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Funeral service scheduled for Clark County sheriffs deputy As previously reported by News Center 7, the funeral for Clark County Sheriffs deputy Summer Jenkins was held Monday in Springfield. She died at the age of 27 on Dec. 19. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Clark County sheriffs dispatcher gave the End of Watch (EOW) call. After four years of dedicated service to the village of Cedarville and to the citizens of Clark County, Deputy Summer Jenkins has answered her final call, the dispatcher said. Her procession started in Clark County and ended in Indiana where she attended school. Clark County Sheriffs Chief Deputy Michael Young told News Center 7 that Deputy Jenkins had a smile like a warm hug. He described her as polite, friendly, and had an energy that was comforting to others. Young added she was excited to be part of the sheriffs office. Jenkins graduated from the Sinclair Law Enforcement Academy, according to her online obituary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She began her law enforcement career at the Colerain Police Department. Jenkins spent four years with Cedarville Police before joining the Clark County Sheriffs Office in September 2024. Rest easy, Deputy Jenkins. We will take it from here, the EOW concluded. Chief Young said the loss will be felt by several police departments and first responders. Photo contributed by Littleton & Rue [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Tacaria Anderson Jones graduated in May 1998 on a Friday from Palm Beach Lakes High School. The following Monday, she began work as a summer student intern at the Port of Palm Beach. Twenty-six years later, she is still at the port. She has come a long way since her days as an eight-week intern. Today, she is one of its top executives its director of contract compliance and tenant relations. It has been a bit of whirlwind, said Anderson Jones. I remember the first day. There was a retirement party. I had to get the food. I would answer the phones, run errands. Back then, I was the only intern. Tacaria Anderson Jones is Director of Contract Compliance & Tenant Relations at the Port of Palm Beach on October 30, 2024, in Riviera Beach, Florida. In her current position, she interprets and negotiates complex contracts. For Anderson Jones, the trail to become a top executive from her humble beginning was not easy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She became a full-time employee in January 1999. Her first job was as a fiscal technician, reconciling deposits. While working full time, she went to college to study finance. She eventually obtained a degree from Florida Atlantic University in 2007 in business administration management. Id work until 4 p.m. and then take night classes that started two hours later, she said, noting it could often take more than an hour to get from the port in Riviera Beach to FAU in Boca Raton. More: Port of Palm Beach planning for huge growth next 20 years Tacaria Jones as a student intern in 1998 at the Port of Palm Beach. Today, 26 years later, she is one of the agency's top executives. More: Searching for more space, Port of Palm Beach may call for the relocation of some tenants Is another career in the cards for the one-time student intern? She advanced to an accounts payable specialist, accounts receivable specialist and manager of accounts receivable. Last year, she was promoted to her current executive-level position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would have a port career, she said. It has been very fulfilling. She said it has been satisfying to see the growth that has occurred. The port has the highest container volume per acre of any port in the country. More than 1,400 cargo vessels a year dock there, 412,000 cruise ship passengers frequent the port and much of the Caribbean receives its commodities from the port. It is quite an operation, she said. So what the does future hold for Anderson Jones? At 44 years old, she is exploring the possibility of obtaining a certification through the Port Professional Management Program that would allow her to become a deputy director or even an executive director of a port. Retirement is only four years away. I have always wondered what it would be like to work at a much bigger port. So who knows? Award from American Association of Port Authorities for the Port of Palm Beach's student summer internship program In October, the Port of Palm Beach received a Lighthouse Award from the American Association of Port Authorities for its summer internship program. Applications for 2025 will be accepted in March, and the program could have as many as 10 interns this coming summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anderson Jones urges high school and college students to apply, noting: The sky is the limit. I am an example of that. Mike Diamond is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. He covers Palm Beach County government and issues impacting homeowner associations. You can reach him at mdiamond@pbpost.com. Help support local journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Can an intern rise to executive? Tacaria Anderson Jones says you can. CARACAS, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil on Monday criticized U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken of supporting "the worst opposition" in South America. The foreign minister made the remarks on social media after Blinken voiced U.S. support for two Venezuelan opposition figures. Gil said that Washington has failed many times to "fight against" Venezuela during the past four years and this time it will be "no different". He said that the Venezuelan people and government will overcome the obstacles made by the United States and build a sovereign and independent country. According to local media, Blinken pledged to "commit to a peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela" in a telephone with Venezuelan opposition figures on Monday. NILES, Ohio (WKBN) Oak Hill Collaborative is expanding its digital literacy programs and will also teach a new class this year in both English and Spanish. The class will be every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Plaza Agave in Niles. It begins on Jan. 7. The classes teach students computer basics in an effort to close the digital divide. This location will also be part of their Hardware for Homes program. Qualified students who attend five classes will get a free refurbished laptop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you dont know how to use a computer, you are lost in this world. Government benefits, education, medicine and telehealth, things like that communicating with your loved ones, said Oak Hill Executive Director Pat Kerrigan. They also teach a bilingual class every Tuesday at 10 a.m. at OCCHA on Shirley Road in Youngstown. Nick Rich contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) A prominent political science professor at Norfolk State University has died, according to officials with the university. Professor Carol Pretlow has been with NSU for over 30 years and was a beloved member of the Department of Political Science. Many people also knew her from her appearances on the talk show Another View Round Table, a nationally recognized show which focuses on issues surrounding the African American community. NSU released a statement regarding Pretlows passing, which can be read in part below: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Professor Pretlows commitment to the field of political science, her passion for teaching, and her unwavering dedication to her students were evident in all aspects of her work. She served Norfolk State University for over thirty years and not only imparted valuable knowledge in the classroom but also inspired generations of students to think critically about the world around them and engage with political issues on a deeper level. Her expertise, warmth, and generosity of spirit will be greatly missed by colleagues, students, and everyone fortunate enough to have worked with her. NSU Her legacy will be found in the many, many, many students that she educated and also encouraged to take up careers in law and public policy and in politics and beyond, said NSU Professor and friend, Eric Claville, J.D., M.L.I.S., One thing about her is that she definitely loved her students that her students, loved her. Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Alexander also released a statement on Facebook following Pretlows passing, where he spoke about her generosity and wisdom, saying that Pretlows passing is a tremendous loss. When I first started teaching, I sought Professor Pretlows expertise in designing an Introduction to International Relations/Diplomacy course at Tidewater Community College. She generously shared her wisdom on how to instruct students on the complex factors shaping national policies, including geographical, demographic, economic, and ideological influences. Her insights into international conflicts and their resolution were invaluable, offering a nuanced understanding of the underlying causes of global discord and cooperation. Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Alexander According to NSUs website, Pretlows area of specialization included international relations, constitutional law, international law and terrorism and national security. NSUs Department of Political Science will be holding a memorial service for Pretlow in the near future. Details for the memorial have yet to be released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) A North Carolina appeals court has said for a second time that a woman convicted of killing her lover should receive a new trial, declaring that text messages and photos from her cellphone wrongly presented to the jury likely prevented her acquittal on self-defense grounds. A divided three-judge panel of the intermediate-level Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday that the judge in the 2019 trial of Wendy Dawn Lamb Hicks erred by allowing that evidence from local prosecutors and without instructions to jurors limiting how it should be considered. The jury convicted Hicks of second-degree murder in the 2017 death of Caleb Adams, who was shot twice in the back in Hicks' bedroom doorway in her Randolph County home. Hicks was sentenced to 15 to 19 years in prison. The texts and photos, which were printed out for jurors, unfairly prejudiced Hicks by emphasizing evidence such as her sex life, rather than whether she was justified in firing at Adams, Court of Appeals Judge April Wood wrote while also vacating her conviction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We conclude there was substantial and persuasive evidence presented at trial demonstrating Defendant acted in self-defense, Wood said in the majority opinion. The jurors probably would have acquitted Defendant if the exhibits did not cause them to reach their decision based on passion, namely, a personal revulsion toward Defendant. In 2022, Wood wrote the unanimous opinion for another three-judge appeals panel that directed Hicks receive a new trial. Wood wrote that Superior Court Judge Bradford Long had erred by giving unsupported jury instructions about the legal limits for deadly force inside a home. The state's Supreme Court reversed that decision and upheld the conviction in September 2023. The primary opinion from the court said that based on evidence, it was proper for the judge to instruct that Hicks could not cite self-defense and the protection of ones home to justify deadly force if the jury could infer that she was acting as the aggressor even if she did not instigate the confrontation. But justices told the Court of Appeals it still needed to decide whether Long committed a serious error by admitting the records and photos into evidence. Writing Tuesday, Wood said that testimony by Hicks and others already demonstrated numerous sordid details about her life, including simultaneous affairs and continuing one with Adams after learning he was married, according to Wood's written opinion. Adams and Hicks' relationship also was marked by drug use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Admitting the text message exchanges, which included references to sex acts and violence, probably shifted the focus of the case "to whether she was someone of whom the jurors should approve personally," Wood wrote. And enlarged, close-up images of Hicks engaging in sexual activity with Adams likely "only served the purpose of shocking and disgusting the jury. Court of Appeals Judge Julee Flood joined in Wood's opinion on Tuesday. Court of Appeals Judge Hunter Murphy, who was also on the 2022 panel, now decided that the murder conviction should be left intact. In a dissenting opinion, Murphy said he couldn't conclude that the jury almost certainly" would have reached a different verdict had the evidence been excluded. The state Supreme Court can choose to hear the case again based on Tuesday's ruling. It was among dozens issued on a special filing day and designed for some members of the 15-judge court who won't return to their seats in 2025. Murphy and Judge Carolyn Thompson both lost in 2024 elections. Some opinions also came from Judge Jefferson Griffin, who remains in a tight race for a state Supreme Court seat with Associate Justice Allison Riggs. RALEIGH, N.C. (WBTW) A Robeson County man whose been on death for decades after being convicted of killing his stepfather had his sentence commuted to life without parole by Gov. Roy Cooper on Tuesday his final day in office. Robbie Dexter Locklear, 52, was among 15 inmates granted clemency among 89 who asked Coopers office for relief, according a news release. News13 on Tuesday asked Coopers office for a copy of Locklears petition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Convicted Conway bank killer asks for compassionate release days after death sentence commutation These reviews are among the most difficult decisions a Governor can make, and the death penalty is the most severe sentence that the state can impose, Cooper said in a statement. Locklear was sentenced to death after being convicted of first-degree murder in May 1996, and the state Supreme Court upheld his punishment in 1998. On Jan. 27, 1994, Locklear and his stepfather James Charles Jay Taylor got into an altercation in the Robeson County mobile home they shared, according to details of the case outlined in his Supreme Court appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump tells 37 people with sentences commuted by Biden to go to hell in lengthy Christmas post After the men got into a fight in a bedroom, Locklear left and then came with a 12-gauge shotgun, shooting Taylor in the back and then again in the neck at close range. Locklear then went to his aunts home across the street and confessed to shooting Taylor. Currently incarcerated at Central Prison in Raleigh, Locklear was racked up 11 infractions for violations including disobeying orders, misuse of medication and assaulting staff with a weapon, according to state records. No executions have been carried out in North Carolina since 2006 due to ongoing litigation. Before Tuesdays commutations, the state had 136 offenders on death row. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said a variety of factors were considered before clemency was granted, including: Facts and circumstances of the crime Whether a murder was particularly heinous and cruel Input from prosecutors in the county of conviction Input from family members of victims Defendants criminal history Defendants conduct and activity in prison Mental and intellectual capacity of the defendant at the time of the crime Credible claims of innocence The potential influence of race, such as the race of the defendant and victim, composition of the jury pool and the final jury, and evidence and testimony offered at trial Sentences received by co-defendants Whether plea agreements for a lesser sentence were offered prior to trial Age of defendant at the time of the crime Current age, health, and mental capacity of the defendant Adequacy of legal representation at trial and on appeal Laws governing capital punishment at the time of conviction Juror actions and statements Appellate history, including ongoing appeals * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. SNOW HILL, N.C. (WNCT) A Greene County man was arrested and charged with communicating threats after an investigation by multiple law enforcement offices. Social media posts made by William Nicolas McKeever, 44, of Walstonburg, prompted law enforcement to investigate. They said some of the posts were threats and in some, McKeever claimed affiliation with various U.S. federal government agencies. Deputies stopped McKeever in his vehicle Sunday night, Dec. 29 in Snow Hill. McKeever was wearing a bulletproof vest and holster but did not have a weapon. He told deputies he was a law enforcement officer and did not initially comply with orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After McKeever did comply, he was arrested. He was charged with: Two counts communicating threats (Pitt County) Two counts communicating threats (Greene County) Impersonating a law enforcement officer Resisting, delaying or obstructing an officer Cyberstalking Violating a domestic violence protection order Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. A son of Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., was sentenced to 28 years in prison Monday in connection with the death of a sheriff's deputy during a law enforcement chase last year. Ian Cramer, 43, pleaded guilty in September to nine charges, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, reckless endangerment and drug possession, tied to a pursuit last year that ended in a crash that killed Deputy Paul Martin, who was 53. State District Judge Bobbi Weiler, who handed down the sentence, said in court Monday that Cramer was unlikely to serve the full 28 years, according to The Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are not mandatory minimums, which means that youre probably going to serve a small portion of that 28 years and be out on parole, Weiler said. The North Dakota Highway Patrol has said that Martin was killed after Cramer veered and crashed into an unoccupied Mercer County sheriffs patrol vehicle that struck him as he was preparing to assemble a tire deflation device to end the chase. Kevin McCabe, a public defender for Cramer, declined to comment Monday night on the sentence. The Mercer County states attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson for Cramer's father, a Republican who was first elected to the Senate in 2018 after having held a House seat for several years, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cramer has said his son struggles with mental illness, saying in a statement after the charges were filed last year that he suffers from serious mental disorders which manifest in severe paranoia and hallucinations." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The News The northern lights are set to be visible across the US and parts of Western Europe on New Years Eve thanks to a huge solar storm. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a high-level geomagnetic storm warning for December 31, meaning that there is a high likelihood that the aurora borealis will be visible in areas where they are rarely seen. A coronal mass ejection has seen significant eruptions of plasma and magnetic field emitted from the Sun towards Earth over the past few days, making auroras likely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Northern US states are expected to have the best vantage points in the country, while the UKs Met Office has issued an alert for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England. The Sun is currently experiencing its Solar Maximum, the peak in an 11-year activity cycle, which sets 2025 up for more strong geomagnetic storms and auroras. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) New video taken by a passing trolley captured the gunfire that erupted in a busy part of Channelside Drive Saturday evening. We heard three loud sounds, I personally thought they were fireworks, and then I looked over and saw everybody running, Madison Snyder said. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said two of his reserve officers were working extra duty on traffic enforcement Saturday when a man threatened to shoot an officer before then reaching for his pocket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats when investigators say one of the reserve officers shot the man three times. They have quite extensive experience, Bercaw explained. Both of them were officers before in the Orange County area so they do come with a lot of experience and thats even before they come and receive our extensive training. Bercaw said, the man was hospitalized and is in critical but stable condition. The question remains, did police find a weapon on the man who they say reached into his pocket before being shot? Thats part of the ongoing investigation, but as of this time they have not, Bercaw replied. Now, as we prepare for one of the biggest drinking days of the year, whats being done to ensure there is a sense of safety in Tampa? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to guns and settling things with firearms, whats your message tonight?, News Channel 8 reporter Nicole Rogers asked. Absolutely, guns arent going to solve problems at all, they actually make things worse, Bercaw said. We just dont want anybody unnecessarily escalating those situations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. A notorious kidnapper whose 2015 crimes and the subsequent flawed police investigation were turned into a Netflix documentary has been charged in two cold cases in the San Francisco Bay Area. Matthew Muller, 47, appeared in a Santa Clara County courtroom Monday to face charges in a pair of home invasions and attempted rapes that allegedly occurred in 2009. Superior Court Judge Hector Ramon ordered Muller to return to court Jan. 17 to enter a plea. The first incident allegedly took place on Sept. 29, 2009, when a Mountain View woman in her 30s told police she awoke to find a man on top of her. According to a description of the case from the Santa Clara County district attorney's office, the man, who authorities allege was Muller, demanded she drink a medicated beverage, then tied her up and said he was going to rape her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman was able to persuade him to stop his assault, according to the district attorney's office. Before leaving, Muller allegedly told her that she should get a dog for protection. About three weeks later, on Oct. 18, 2009, a woman in nearby Palo Alto awoke to find a man on top of her, according to the district attorney's office. The woman was tied up and forced to drink Nyquil by her assailant, alleged by authorities to be Muller. Again, the woman was able to persuade him to stop, according to prosecutors. And again, before leaving, he gave the woman "crime prevention advice," according to the district attorney's office. The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real, Santa Clara County Dist. Atty. Jeff Rosen said in a statement. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Muller was previously charged and convicted in an infamous case that is the subject of a new Netflix documentary, "American Nightmare." In that case, Muller broke into a Vallejo home in March 2015 and drugged and bound a couple, Aaron Quinn and Denise Huskins. Muller blindfolded them with swim goggles and gave them medicine to make them sleepy. He put headphones on Quinn and played recordings designed to make Quinn think he was dealing with more than one kidnapper. Muller then put Huskins into Quinns car and drove off with her, eventually taking her to his familys cabin in South Lake Tahoe. He held her there for two days and sexually assaulted her, before driving her across California and releasing her in Huntington Beach. Initially, Vallejo police dismissed Quinns account of his girlfriend being spirited away by a kidnapper or kidnappers who put headphones on him and made him drink a substance that made him sleepy. Officers interrogated Quinn for hours, brushing aside his story and theorizing he was behind her disappearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Huskins turned up, police grew more suspicious, questioning how a kidnapping victim could reappear hundreds of miles away wearing sunglasses and carrying an overnight bag. Huskins did not act like a kidnapping victim, retired Vallejo Police Capt. James OConnell later said in a sworn statement . Police tried to get Huskins and Quinn to turn on each other and admit there had been no crime, offering immunity to whoever flipped first, according to statements from their family members. Then, police went public with that sentiment. There is no evidence to support the claims that this was a stranger abduction or an abduction at all, Police Lt. Kenny Park said in a statement at the time. Given the facts that have been presented thus far, this event appears to be an orchestrated event and not a crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, less than three months later, evidence gathered from a June 5, 2015, home invasion robbery in the Bay Area community of Dublin helped authorities link Muller to the kidnapping. That case led authorities, including Alameda County Det. Misty Carausu, back to the Muller familys South Lake Tahoe cabin, where they found , among other things, Quinn's computer, goggles and tape with a strand of long blond hair. Huskins and Quinn, who later married, sued the Vallejo Police Department for defamation and reached a $2.5-million settlement in 2018. Muller, a Harvard-educated lawyer and former Marine, pleaded guilty in 2016 to kidnapping Huskins. In 2022, he pleaded guilty to additional charges of sexually assaulting her. Until he was transported to Santa Clara County to face the new charges, he was serving his 40-year sentence at a federal prison in Tucson. Read more: Three dead girls and a man on death row. Did lies put him there? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many involved in the Vallejo case had long feared there were additional victims. Among them was El Dorado County Dist. Atty. Vern Pierson, who had tracked the case because Huskins initially was held in South Lake Tahoe. Pierson has become a vocal critic of police interrogation methods in which detectives form a theory of the case and aggressively pursue a confession from their primary suspect. He said he was dismayed that Quinn said he had been treated as a suspect rather than a victim when Huskins was kidnapped. Pierson invited Quinn and Huskins to speak at a symposium he held this year to teach a science-based interviewing technique that focuses on gathering information rather than breaking suspects. He said he was contacted by a friend of the couple who urged him to look into additional crimes Muller may have committed. Pierson agreed to get involved and said he worked with a number of law enforcement agencies, including the FBI. He added that the investigation is "still ongoing" and he expected additional revelations in the next few weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santa Clara County prosecutors said they began investigating the 2009 cold cases after "following a new lead," and coordinated with police departments in Palo Alto and Mountain View to have all evidence in the two cases sent to the county crime lab for further testing. Muller's DNA was found on straps that were used to bind one of the victims, according to county authorities. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. TAIYUAN, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- "To the glory that was Greece and the grandeur that was Rome." Statues and artifacts representing the mythical beauty in Edgar Allan Poe's famous words will officially start their China tour on New Year's Day, which falls on Wednesday. Jointly organized by the Shanxi Museum and the National Museums Liverpool (NML), the first stop of the exhibition will be launched on Wednesday in Taiyuan, capital of north China's Shanxi Province, with 134 exhibits on display. Running until May 5 in Shanxi, the exhibition will feature full body statues, bust, marble relief sculptures and art works, representing well-known mythical figures such as Zeus, Athena and Apollo. Visitors can also explore sarcophagus panels and Greek pottery, providing an immersive opportunity to get a glimpse of the ancient Greek and Roman world. "NML is honored to present this exhibition to the people of China. The exhibition features over one hundred classical Roman sculptures and associated objects," said Sandra Penketh, NML executive director of collections and research. Penketh said that the sculptures representing the gods of Greek and Roman legends were all inspired by classical art not only for its historical value but also for its aesthetic qualities. The exhibition with the theme of "Classical and Glory" Ancient Greek and Roman Sculpture Arts is expected to continue the China tour to southwest China's Sichuan Province and east China's metropolis of Shanghai. Liu Qiuyi was among over 300 people who visited the exhibition's preview in Taiyuan. She was thrilled by the beauty of the human body as depicted by the sculptures and statues on display. Among the exhibits, the statue of Apollo from the Roman period was placed under a spotlight. The young Apollo leaned against a tree trunk and stared intently at the lizard he was about to kill. An Jing, a museum guide, said the statue was created with the style of Praxiteles, a famous Greek sculptor from the 4th century BC, which is an example of a Roman sculpture inspired by ancient Greek works. World civilizations are vibrant and diverse. Both introducing foreign cultures to domestic audience and sharing the Chinese civilization with the world help promote exchanges and interaction among global civilizations, said Zhang Huiguo, deputy curator of the Shanxi Museum. At least 18 babies have been abandoned in Texas this year, more than double the number of infants that were deserted a decade ago across the state. The epidemic is thought to be linked to abortion restrictions enacted in 2021, according to The Washington Post, and compounded with difficult access to prenatal care. Texas has the highest percentage of women without health insurance in the U.S., the outlet reported. In Houston, police have managed to identify a parent in four of the six abandoned baby cases in the city this year. One only person, Everilda Cux-Ajtzalam, an 18-year-old woman from Guatemala, had been charged with felony child abandonment as of mid-December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman claimed her knowledge of sex education was limited and said a relative raped her. She only realized she was pregnant seven months after the alleged incident. The relative denied wrongdoing in an interview with The Post. Parking lot security footage caught the migrant teen on camera giving birth to the baby and then discarding it in a dumpster, prosecutors said. She feared going to a clinic due to stories shed heard of officials instigating deportation proceedings against migrants. She said she did not know what she would do with the baby once she went into labor and when the child was born. She was unaware of the states safe haven law, which allows parents to give up unharmed newborns up to 60 days old at designated locations without fear of prosecution. The newspaper found that a majority of the parents who chose to leave their children were facing desperate circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the increase in cases, state lawmakers have not dedicated funds toward raising awareness to prevent babies from being abandoned. They did, however, put aside $165 million this fiscal year to programs that offer alternatives to abortion like crisis pregnancy centers. The centers have been accused of deceiving vulnerable young women seeking help to instead urge them to give birth whether or not they want to, are capable of raising a child or can afford to. Other states have allocated thousands of dollars for awareness campaigns and hotlines to stop child abandonment. Texas passed a law last year allowing for the installation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes. The boxes are installed in the exterior walls of fire stations. It costs about $20,000 to get one of the boxes installed, which are climate-controlled and have padded drawers. A silent alarm alerts first responders if a baby is placed in the box. Its too early to tell how effective the boxes will be statewide. One day after one was installed in Lubbock, Texas, a child was found in a city dumpster. NEW YORK (AP) City correction officers repeatedly blocked medical staff from administering care to a severely ill woman held at Rikers Island weeks before the 23-year-old fell into a coma and died of apparent organ failure, a jail oversight board found. Charizma Jones was receiving treatment for a possible case of scarlet fever when she was transferred to an infirmary unit May 4 for worsening symptoms. But when medical personnel attempted to check her vital signs, they were stopped from entering her cell on six separate occasions by correction officers who cited an unspecified security reason, according to a report released Monday by the Board of Corrections, an independent oversight agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After two days of isolation, Jones was rushed to a hospital with a rash, high fever and signs of acute liver damage. On July 14 she was pronounced dead of multiorgan failure," according to a preliminary examination. Jones' death has sparked outrage among advocates and some officials, as well as ongoing probes by the state Attorney General's Office and the citys Department of Investigation. An attorney for her family, MK Kaishian, called the officers' actions illegal and morally repugnant and accused them of contributing to a death that was both preventable and agonizing. The findings come weeks after a federal judge ordered the city to begin preparing for a possible federal takeover of the jail system, one of the countrys largest and most notorious, ruling it had placed its incarcerated population in unconstitutional danger. The investigation into Jones' death details several of the chronic issues at the heart of the federal court case, including allegations of staff neglect and inadequate medical treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A resident of the Bronx who suffered from mental health and substance problems, Jones arrived at Rikers Island in September 2023 to serve a sentence for assault. After allegedly fighting with a correction officer in April, she was placed on restricted status and deemed ineligible for early release. According to surveillance video viewed by the oversight agency, she appeared woozy and unable to stand while in a general population unit May 4. But after an officer called the health clinic to report the medical emergency, they were told there was no staff to respond, the report says. Instead fellow detainees tried to help Jones, rubbing ice on her skin to cool her off and holding her head as she appeared to lose consciousness. They became frustrated with the lack of response by clinical staff, so they became disruptive and refused to comply with staff orders, the report says. Eventually they triggered an emergency alarm that brought Jones medical attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being transferred to the infirmary, she was prescribed antibiotics for a possible case of scarlet fever and isolated in a cell. But even as she was vomiting into a toilet, video shows, officers repeatedly refused to allow medical workers access to her cell, at one point stating she was on Medlock, the investigation found. A spokesperson for the Department of Correction, Shayla Mulzac-Warner, declined to answer specific questions about the response, citing the ongoing investigations, but said, The health and safety of every person in our care is always our foremost concern. According to the report, the agency has not produced records related to the refusal to grant medical access. An attorney for Jones' family said they were not aware of any staffers being disciplined. While it is imperative that individual officers are held accountable, it is equally if not more urgent to acknowledge and address the fact that Ms. Jones death was caused by systemic rot and indifference to life within New York Citys jails originating at the highest levels of City leadership," the attorney said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under a plan approved by the city council in 2019, New York is legally required to shutter Rikers Island and replace it with four smaller and more modern jails by 2027. But Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, has resisted the closure and urged lawmakers to come up with a Plan B. The citys budget director acknowledged this year that officials would likely not meet the mandated deadline. Mayor Adams warned Curtis Sliwa and the Guardian Angels to stay in their lane as the volunteer public safety group said they would resume subway patrols in the wake of a woman who was killed after being set on fire on a Brooklyn F train. If Curtis wants to be back down in the subway system, if he sees something, he should say something and he should do something, Adams said Tuesday. Dont overstep your boundaries, like they did a few months ago when they arrested an innocent person. Let the police do their job. In February, the group came under fire after members tackled a man in Times Square who they falsely accused of being a shoplifting migrant. The bizarre incident was aired live as Fox News Sean Hannity was interviewing Sliwa, who directed a live camera to pan to the scuffle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new patrols will consist of conducting wellness checks on people who appear to be homeless, handing out water and reporting issues to the NYPD. The Guardian Angels have at various points announced their return to patrolling the subways and streets, especially following high-profile violent incidents. Teams of three will walk the trains as they move through the system, the group has said. I find it perplexing that Eric Adams would want to discourage volunteers providing help to the unprecedented amount of homeless suffering in our subways every single day, Sliwa said in response to Adams remarks, adding that the Guardian Angels dont make arrests. The Angels are looking to expand its membership, putting up flyers in train cars urging straphangers to join. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sliwa ran for mayor in 2021 on the Republican ticket and is expected to do the same in the upcoming election. The mayor, speaking at his weekly press briefing, touted the citys dropping crime statistics, saying that despite a few disturbing incidents New York is still safe overall. Crime is not surging in the subway system, Adams said. You know, we have some high-profile incidents and were really disturbed about it. But overall, crime is lowest. Yesterday The New York Times recommended Canary Media to its readers: It provides not just news but also informed analysis of the effectiveness of green technology. Big bonus: In a seemingly endless barrage of bad news, this site often reports on encouraging developments in the effort to decarbonize. But youre way ahead of the Times. You already know that Canary Media serves up in-depth reporting, smart commentary, and fun charts on the transition to clean energy. Thats why you read us. Can you help us continue to do this good work? Canary Media is a nonprofit, so we can only keep going if we get enough support from donors. Please make a gift today to fund our independent journalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, our reporting was read not only by reporters and editors at The New York Times, but also by members of Congress, state legislators, PUC commissioners, climatetech investors, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, energy industry professionals, and concerned citizens including, of course, you. Our work is informing and inspiring people around the U.S. and the world as they strive to clean up our energy systems, industries, and economies. As we enter 2025, the energy transition is headed into some turbulent times, but it will continue and Canary Media will continue reporting on it. We have plans to grow our team of reporters, widen our geographic reach, increase our newsletter offerings, and expand our series of Canary Live events. The New York Times didnt just praise our work; it also urged people to make donations to support it. Nonprofit news sites devoted to climate coverage deserve our attention, and our dollars, now more than ever, wrote Margaret Renkl, Times opinion writer. Do you agree? If so, can you make a donation to support Canary Media? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many thanks for reading and supporting us. Happy New Year! P.S. Here's a link to the NYT piece, but please make a gift to Canary before you go off and read it. Alan Lowe, executive director of the American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) and the K-25 Atomic History Museum, as well as host of the podcast "American POTUS," writes about the late President Jimmy Carter. Alan has been engaged over the years in the beginning of the Baker Center at the University of Tennessee (now known as The Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs) and is past director of three presidential libraries (Franklin D. Roosevelt, George W. Bush, and Abraham Lincoln). He has been with the AMSE Foundation since 2019. Former President Jimmy Carter with Alan Lowe at the Carter Center in Atlanta, 2009. Alans knowledge of presidential history has been presented in Oak Ridge Institute for Continued Learning classes and serves well in leading the "American POTUS" podcast and "AMSE Cast" for the museum. In his term thus far as executive director here, we have seen the AMSE and K-25 museums grow in service to our community and expand to include national and even international advisory committees. So, enjoy insights into the life and experiences of President Jimmy Carter as perceived by our own presidential history expert, Alan Lowe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement *** As we mourn the passing of President Jimmy Carter, 100, on Dec. 29, 2024, his impact on our nation and the world are only now starting to be truly appreciated. His time in the White House was full of challenges and a fair share of missteps and failures, from hostages in Tehran, Iran, and the Soviet Union invasion of Afghanistan, to malaise, the energy crisis and stagflation on the domestic scene. But historians like Kai Bird, Jonathan Alter and Jay Hakes have been taking a deeper look into the archives and applying fresh perspectives that only the passage of time permits. The result is a more balanced view of a presidency that did indeed have not only some failures but also successes as well, including historic accomplishments such as the Camp David Peace Accords, agreements that ended the decades-long state of war between Israel and Egypt. That reappraisal is not uncommon for presidents, and I think richly deserved for President Carter. But as we know, much of the evaluation of his life now and later will be based on his remarkable post-presidency, a role that broke the old mold and created a new one for all chief executives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From fighting disease in Africa (including almost eradicating guinea worm disease), overseeing elections around the globe, and helping mediate international disputes, to building houses for the less fortunate through the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity organization, teaching Sunday school, writing and speaking and traveling, Carter seemed to be moving non-stop even as he battled brain cancer later in his life. He was recognized for his efforts with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. I was fortunate to meet him on several occasions, but the encounter I remember most vividly occurred not long after I was made director of the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, Texas. The president, and the First Lady Rosalynn Carter, invited all presidential library directors to tour the recently renovated museum of the Carter Center in Atlanta. During what was an unforgettable morning, they led us on a tour of the exhibits, personally detailing their memories at each turn. Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter with National Archives representatives at the Carter Center in Atlanta, 2009, Alan Lowe is third from right. Afterwards we sat in a conference room where President Carter asked if we had any questions. For the first time in my experience, my director colleagues appeared to be tongue-tied. I must admit such silence is rare presidential library directors are typically a very confident group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, I piped up and asked him to tell us about his work in Africa and why he placed such an emphasis upon those efforts. His face lit up and for the next 20 minutes he gave us a detailed review of the challenges faced in Africa by tropical diseases such as the one caused by the parasitic guinea worm present in contaminated water and how the Carter Center was addressing them. (According to Harvard Public Health, only 13 cases of Guinea worm in humans were recorded in 2022, compared with 3.5 million cases 40 years ago). Carters passion for the subject was obvious, and his enthusiasm lit up the room. The other directors joined in, and we spoke with the president and Mrs. Carter for another hour. As I realized vividly that morning, Jimmy Carters legacy will far outlive his four years in the White House and even his 100 years on this Earth. He was a good president and a great man. *** Thank you, Alan, for a great review of not only President Jimmy Carters accomplishments, but your personal interactions with him and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Such opportunities as you have had are rare for many. Your insights gained through your varied experiences well serve you in the role you are now engaged in here in Oak Ridge. We are proud of the work you are doing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the next chapters of the history of Oak Ridge evolve and the museums you direct continue to support all that is Oak Ridge history and accomplishments, the coming nuclear renaissance may well bring additional attention to us and the museums. Keep up the good work! D. Ray Smith is the city of Oak Ridge historian. His "Historically Speaking" column is published weekly in The Oak Ridger. Today you get a bonus "Historically Speaking" with another column on the Scarboro 85 and sports inside today's edition of The Oak Ridger. D. Ray Smith, writer for the Historically Speaking column. This article originally appeared on Oakridger: AMSE leader writes of meeting President Jimmy Carter MANTEO, N.C. (WAVY) A North Carolina team is fighting for the survival of an endangered species in Dare County. The red wolves used to dominate North America before European settlers came in, and when the rehabilitation program started back in the 1980s, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge had more than 100 red wolves. Now, there are only about 20 of them left. Endangered red wolves in eastern North Carolina fading fast Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the refuge, nestled on the other side of the Albemarle Sound in Dare County, theres a team of people that have been working for decades to keep the red wolf, one of North Americas apex predators, from being wiped out. The true wildlife enthusiasts know this part of North Carolina is basically a wildlife paradise, said Dr. Ron Sutherland, Wildlands Network chief scientist. And the red wolf is a key part of that. Sutherland spent years helping lead the effort to preserve the endangered species. With some still bred in captivity, they were reintroduced to the wild in 1987, allowing them to roam the 150,000-acre refuge. They actually alternate a nice strip of crops and then a strip of early succession or brushy vegetation, Sutherland said. And thats just great, great habitat, not just for the wolves, but all kinds of wildlife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the programs peak, they got the wild population back to about 120 red wolves. But around 2012, a nearby developer and neighbors down the highway were concerned about coyotes and wolves near their homes. At around that time, North Carolina legislators passed a statewide coyote hunting program. And that was a problem down here in the red wolf area, Sutherland said, because there was 100 of these red wolves at night. You cant tell a red wolf from a coyote. Its hard enough during the day, so the story from 2012 to 2020 was basically gunshot mortality, destroying the population and getting down to the last few wolves. As the population dwindled, the shootings stopped. Gunshots deaths went down, but car strikes went up here around U.S. Hwy. 64, an artery for Outer Banks travelers. And it happens to cut right through the north end of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, Sutherland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Road kill survey technicians collect data on just how many animals get killed here. They found several dead red wolves over the years, along with hundreds of other animals. So were trying to preserve biodiversity out here, said Alexandra Blunt, a road kill survey technician with the Wildlands Network. The main point of this project is to help get this crossing built for red wolves. Said Ashwin Arayanan, another road kill survey technician: There was one day where we saw a car pulled over on the side that was completely totaled, pretty much. And it had actually just had hit a bear. Spending years advocating for a wildlife underpass, the North Carolina Department of Transportation asked the federal government for a $25 million grant to get it built. Since 10 On Your Sides visit, they found out they will get the grant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now begins the process of building this crossing, expected to save the lives of the creatures who make this place their home. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. BELLEVIEW, Fla. (WFLA) An off-duty paramedic is being hailed a hero after he saved a man who was trapped in a burning vehicle, Marion County Fire Rescue announced Monday. Just after 7 a.m., fire rescue crews responded to reports of a vehicle crash near Exit 341 Northbound on I-75. On scene, crews found a vehicle had veered off the road, struck a tree, and then burst into flames. Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue The driver of the vehicle was reportedly stuck inside the car before the fire rescues arrival but was safely extracted by off-duty MCFR Critical Care Paramedic Stephen Cabrera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cabrera was reportedly on his way to work when he witnessed the incident and sprang into action. He opened the vehicles door, cut the airbags and seatbelt, and pulled the man to safety. Cabrera then provided lifesaving care until fire rescue arrived. The vehicle fire was declared under control at 7:22 a.m. The cause of the accident is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. An off-duty officer with the Cheraw Police Department was killed in a wreck that happened over the weekend, the police chief announced Tuesday on Facebook. More than 80 rounds fired at Chesterfield County nightclub, deputies say Officer Dwight Marshall was coming back into town on Saturday night when the crash happened. He was taken to the McLeod Trauma Center in Florence, South Carolina. He died on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Town of Cheraw has lost one of its youngest and brightest stars. To all that knew him, and who have ever met him, you can understand why I say that Dwight just somehow made your day better when you talked to him. His humble smile, his gentle and steady positive nature just made the room feel better, Chief Julius K. Riley said. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- About 9 billion inter-regional trips are expected to be made in China during the upcoming Spring Festival travel rush, according to a national teleconference on Tuesday. The figure is forecast to rise by 7 percent from the last Spring Festival peak travel season, and is likely to hit a record high. This annual travel rush, also known as "Chunyun," is usually a period of high transportation demand as people return to their hometowns for family reunions. The 2025 Chunyun will last from Jan. 14 to Feb. 22. Cross-regional rail journeys and civil aviation passenger trips are also expected to hit record highs of 510 million and 90 million, respectively. Eight government departments, including the Ministry of Transport, on Tuesday released an action plan to secure the safety, smooth operations and services of the upcoming travel rush. The plan specifies measures to ensure the supply of charging services for new energy vehicles, pledging efforts to open additional charging facilities in busy service areas and provide guidance for drivers to ensure orderly parking and charging during the peak travel period. The Spring Festival, the most important traditional festival in China, will fall on Jan. 29 in 2025. This summer, Pendo told employees to spend more time at its downtown Raleigh tower. While coming in Tuesdays and Wednesdays would still be mandatory, staff at the local software company were told to pick a third day, at their individual discretion, to work in-person. Even if you are using Slack and using Zoom, the benefits of a drive-by conversation that you dont have to schedule are enormous, Patricia LaPaglia, Pendos global director of workspace and employee experience, said during a tour of the headquarters this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearing five years since COVID-19 toppled office routines, companies continue to weigh and adjust their in-person rules. Momentum is pointing back to pre-pandemic patterns, with some studies showing required office time ticked up this past year. Entering 2025, these policies will affect work-life balance, talent recruitment, the economic health of downtowns, and real estate demand. A push by President-elect Donald Trump to return all federal employees to offices could also ripple across the country to North Carolina sites. The News & Observer asked 10 large Triangle-area employers about their in-person office rules and the reasoning behind the policies. Heres what they said: Fidelity Fidelity Investments is the second-largest employer in Durham County, only behind Duke University. It might also be the Triangles fastest-growing major employer. The company has more than 8,000 employees in North Carolina, with most based at its Research Triangle Park campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, the company started to require workers be onsite for two weeks out of every four-week period. Fidelitys hybrid working model blends the best of both onsite and offsite work experiences, company spokesperson Aadil Shaikh said in an email. It provides associates with the flexibility they enjoy working offsite while making the best use of time together onsite. Fidelity Investments Vice President of Regional Public Affairs Leslie Walden enters the companys main building on its Research Triangle Park, N.C. campus on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. Wells Fargo In early 2024, Wells Fargo opted to vacate its 29-story tower in downtown Raleigh. With more employees working from home, the bank chose to shrink its real estate footprint and reassign staff at Raleigh Capitol Center to available workspaces elsewhere. This is a real estate consolidation, Wells Fargo spokesperson Josh Dunn told The N&O last January. We have more real estate than we need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heading into the new year, Wells Fargo will maintain its existing remote work policy, which the company set in 2022. Employees are expected to be in the office a minimum of three days a week, Dunn said in an email, adding, Most senior leaders and employees who work directly with customers are expected to work in the office four or five days a week. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Trump wants federal employees back in the office. This is easier said than done given existing deals between the federal government and its union. Still, this effort from the new president will be closely watched in the Triangle, where the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency operates its biggest physical campus. The agency doesnt have a specific RTP campus policy. Nationwide, it allows individual employees and their supervisors to determine telework, remote work or other arrangements. EPA is committed to delivering vital public health and environmental protections for the American people, the agency told The N&O in a statement. In-person time, as well as the right level of flexibility, are important to ensure that we are able to meet our mission and support our workforce. We are equally committed to our partnership with our unions and our obligations under our union current contracts. EPA chemist Mark Strynar explains how the federal agency identifies new environmental pollutants at his lab in North Carolinas Research Triangle Park Cisco The California tech giant Cisco announced two rounds of layoffs in 2024. But its remote work policy at its RTP campus didnt change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a people-first company, Cisco believes the office should be a magnet, not a mandate, and does not enforce a company-wide return-to-office policy, company spokesperson Jimin Lee-Bui said in an email. As we had done even before the Covid pandemic, we continue to offer flexibility to our workforce, trusting employees globally to make the decision for themselves in how and where they want to work. N.C. Commerce Department data shows Cisco is the fourth-largest employer in Durham County. It opened its RTP campus in the 1990s. Red Hat Red Hat is headquartered in downtown Raleigh, but the open source software provider doesnt require employees to be at its tower. Since 2022, the company has maintained an office-flex policy that allows workers to come in as much or as little as they decide. Were still embracing office-flex for many of our associates and focusing on intentional in-office engagements, especially for our leaders, Red Hat spokesperson Allison Showalter said in an email. There is no corporate in-person policy. An aerial view of the Red Hat building in downtown Raleigh Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023. RTI International We provide staff with the flexibility to work where and when they are most productive with resident, hybrid or telework options, said Bucky Fairfax, chief human resources officer at RTI International, an RTP nonprofit that provides consulting and research expertise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RTI International set its in-person policy in August 2023. For Triangle-based workers who elect to be residents as opposed to hybrid or teleworkers the expectation is for them to work at the companys headquarters an average of 3 days per week. Given the nature of some of our work, we have numerous staff in RTP such as engineers, laboratory scientists, facilities, and security whose work must be conducted at onsite, Fairfax said in an email. SAS The Cary analytics provider SAS Institute, one of the longest-operating technology companies in the Triangle, hasnt altered its work policy. Since the pandemic, we have remained committed to flexibility in the workplace, SAS spokesperson Shannon Heath said in an email. Employees can choose their work arrangement (Full-time Remote or Hybrid) as long as the job function doesnt require them to be in the office to perform their duties. MetLife and Lenovo At its global technology campus in Cary, the insurance and employee benefits provider MetLife expects its roughly 2,600 employees to work in-person at least three days a week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since late 2022, Lenovo has maintained a similar 3:2 model for its U.S. workforce, which includes several thousand at the companys North American headquarters in Morrisville. Enjoy Triangle tech news? Subscribe to Open Source, The News & Observer's weekly newsletter, and look for it in your inbox every Friday morning. Sign up here. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) An officer was injured following a chase involving a stolen vehicle in Rochester, which led to the arrest of a 19-year-old and a teenager. Around 1:07 a.m. Tuesday morning, one Rochester police officer was driving north on Hague Street when a Hyundai SUV left a parking lot and drove at the patrol car. The officer swerved out of the way. The officer ended up following the car and tried to do a traffic stop on Campbell Street, but the Hyundai did not pull over, leading to a chase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the chase, RPD said the Hyundai tried driving toward another patrol car. The chase ended when the Hyundai crashed into a stop sign at the intersection of Jay and Walnut Street. The two suspects tried to run away but were apprehended. A 19-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy were arrested. Investigators say the car they were in was reported stolen out of Greece. Charges are forthcoming. One officer was injured while running after the suspects and was taken to a hospital. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A missing man has been found and is safe. Authorities were searching for an older adult who dropped their family member off at a location on Dec. 30, but failed to pick them up. An update from officials said the man was found and is safe. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. LORDSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A local pizza shop sold a winning lottery ticket, according to the Ohio Lottery. Read next: Lake-effect snow warnings issued near the Valley The Ohio Lottery Commission announced on Instagram that a ticket was sold at the Lordstown Comeback on Salt Springs Road. The post says that the winning ticket was a part of the Lucky For Life game. The winner receives $25,000 a year for life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winning numbers were 14, 19, 21, 25, 30 and auto-pick 9. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. A Northeast Ohio rapper was killed in a shooting at an apartment complex. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Carlos Banks, known by his stage name KashBankx, died in the shooting, WOIO reported. TRENDING STORIES: Cleveland police said officers were called out to investigate a person shot around 4 a.m. on Sunday in the Broadway-Slavic Village neighborhood. When police arrived on the scene, they found the 28-year-old rapper shot multiple times inside an apartment. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Banks had amassed thousands of followers with his rap career. It has not been confirmed if anyone has been arrested in connection to the shooting, WOIO reported. The case remains under investigation. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Russian media and Telegram channels reported a fire at an oil depot at dawn on 31 December following a UAV attack in Russia's Smolensk Oblast. Source: BBC News Russian; Russian Telegram channels Details: Reports indicate that an oil depot in Yartsevo in Smolensk Oblast has been attacked. The district head reportedly confirmed the attack on a "fuel and energy infrastructure facility". Russian Telegram channels claimed that residents of Yartsevo had heard over 10 explosions, after which a fire broke out near the oil depot. Later, Smolensk Oblast Governor Vasily Anokhin confirmed that an oil depot in Yartsevo was on fire following what he claimed was an attack by Ukrainian drones. Support UP or become our patron! Oklahoma County is not a "superior sovereign" to Oklahoma City, but it does enjoy "immunity from Oklahoma Citys zoning power ... as it relates to the site of the new county jail" at 1901 E Grand Blvd., Attorney General Gentner Drummond said in an official opinion issued this week. Therefore, the jail will be built there, after all, starting with a Mental and Behavior Care Center paid for mostly with nearly $40 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, said Brian Maughan, chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. Maughan announced the opinion Monday during a special meeting of the county Budget Board. Just last week, commissioners had said that while mediation with the city had fallen apart, threatening loss of the $40 million, the county's lawsuit against it claiming "superior sovereignty" over the jail site would go on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The money would have been returned to the U.S. Treasury if not committed by New Year's Eve, although commissioners had pledged to spread it around in the last minutes of the year if necessary, to nonprofits and local governments previously receiving ARPA funds. Related: As mediation fails, OK County scraps plans for jail health center; ARPA funds to be spread OK County: Attorney general gave the county a gift Oklahoma Attorney Gentner Drummond "It's a leftover Christmas miracle for Oklahoma County. I appreciate (Drummond) moving in swiftly," Maughan said, although ever cautious. "It's very exciting news. Hopefully, we'll be able to save that $40 million for the mental health facility." All that remains for finalizing approval of construction using the ARPA money is one more positive vote by county commissioners at a special meeting that was set for Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District Attorney Vicki Behenna, who represents the county in court, could not be reached for comment in time for this print edition. A spokesman for the city, represented by the municipal counselor's office, said its officials had no comment. Grassroots nonprofit People's Council for Justice Reform, a constant critic of jail operations and plans for the new jail, expressed disappointment. We are extremely disappointed that county officials continually ignore the will of the people, even going to the AG to circumvent a proper courtroom hearing concerning the jail location," said Mark Faulk, with the organization. "As always, we maintain that mental health facilities should not be connected to a jail and should instead be implemented as a preventative measure instead of continuing to criminalize mental illness, addiction and poverty." The argument over the 60-acre site, controversial from the start, has been in court since the commissioners sued Oklahoma City in June after the city council denied its request for a zoning change authorizing it to build a jail and health center. A pretrial conference is set for Jan. 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board, having received a nonbinding but typically persuasive letter of counsel from Drummond, but not an official opinion, had hoped to sway the city council. Related: Plans for OK County jail health center survive as OKC and OK County head to mediation Attorney General Gentner Drummond criticizes OKC Council Oklahoma County District 2 Commissioner Brian Maughan, left, and District 3 County Commissioner Myles Davidson speak to media in mid-2024. The attorney general chastised the Oklahoma City Council because it "effectively ignored" his advisory letter of counsel issued Dec. 12 saying the county was likely to win its lawsuit. Given "the time-sensitive nature" of the question, "this office hereby converts the answers previously given" to "a formal opinion." "Oklahoma County demonstrated good faith seeking to work with the Oklahoma City (Council) by participating in the permitting and zoning process," Drummond wrote in his official opinion. "In contrast, the City Council responded to the Countys efforts dismissively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "First ... the City Council flouted its own Planning Department and Commissions recommendation to approve the special permit. This prompted Oklahoma Countys current appeal before Judge (Doug) Drummond (no relation). "Second, after a failed mediation, the City Council ceased negotiations all together and refuses to respond to Oklahoma Countys continued efforts to raze the impasse between itself and the City Council. Though the City Council may believe that it asserts valid, pressing concerns, its action more appropriately, inaction smacks of the bad-faith politics of obstruction and obstinance." Related: OK County: $40 million jail health center left for dead because OKC Council won't budge Legal factors tip in OK County's favor, AG says Citing an Oklahoma Supreme Court decision in 1986, Drummond said the district court must consider and "balance" these factors: the land use involved, the extent of the public interest, the effect that local regulation would have on the proposed enterprise, the impact on local interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The balance tipped toward the county, the attorney general said. In the official opinion, he again outlined his interpretation of the factors to balance, edited somewhat from his statements in his letter of counsel: "First, Oklahoma County and Oklahoma City are merely one hierarchical step apart. And Oklahoma County encompasses most of Oklahoma City. But this factor is not determinative." "Second, the function or land use involved will be forced detention. In this matter, the Oklahoma City Planning Department and Commission both recommended approval of the special use permit. Yet, the City Council voted to deny the permit. In essence, prior to denial, city personnel saw no reason to reject the application due to negative effects on public health, safety, and welfare." "Third, constructing a new detention center greatly serves the public interest. Voters approved the new facility, which the county must have or provide access to such a facility in another county. Conceptually, the new facility will be safer for inmates, jail employees, and visitors, such as state officials present for jail inspections ... " "Even more, numerous lawsuits and failed safety inspections will no longer persist. Almost assuredly, at least, these ongoing burdens on taxpayer resources will be lessened by constructing and maintaining the new facility." "Fourth, the proposed property is currently zoned as heavy industry. This zoning has little bearing on the proposed use of the property for forced detention. Further, to the extent that any issues still exist, Oklahoma County agreed to changes raised in the technical evaluation." "Also, Oklahoma County chose a location away from security-sensitive establishments like schools, daycares, and houses of worship. Fifth, any legitimate local interests have seemingly been handled by experts within Oklahoma Citys Planning Department and Planning Commission; both recommended approval." "Finally, Oklahoma Countys new jail project serves 'broader governmental interests' and, therefore, is so important and statutorily mandated, to a degree, that the County has immunity in its determination of the new county jail site. This immunity exists despite vocalized local interests, which this office recognizes." "Essentially, there will be concerns or objections raised founded or unfounded no matter where Oklahoma County chooses to build the new detention center. To allow concerns and objections to control the conversation would equate to an endless cycle of inaction between Oklahoma City and Oklahoma County." Regarding Drummond's point about distance from "security-sensitive" establishments: The nearness of Crooked Oak Schools, 1901 SE 15, to the jail site at 1901 E Grand, one mile to the northwest, has been a concern. Also, Reliant Living Center of Oklahoma City, 2901 SE 22, is one-half mile south of the jail site, and Reliant Living Center, at 3317 SE 18 in Del City, is less than a mile to the east. Staff Writer Richard Mize covers Oklahoma County government and the city of Edmond. He previously covered housing, commercial real estate and related topics for the newspaper and Oklahoman.com, starting in 1999. Contact him at rmize@oklahoman.com. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: AG: OK County not 'superior,' but immune from OKC zoning at jail site OAKLAND PARK Rachel Rodriguez looks around her store, and emotions surface at the sight of her relatives portraits on the walls. Theyre a reminder of a legacy that dates back more than 200 years. Her business, Constantines Wood Center, soon will close in Oakland Park. Itll conclude a chapter in the long-running story of the family business, whose vibrant history centered on mastering cabinetwork and offering a craftsmans headquarters for fine woods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tradition, tracing to New York in the early 1800s, endured with the Oakland Park store, at 1040 E. Oakland Park Blvd. The store lasted as a stable spot for almost 50 years in Broward, but then business waned. Its hard, Rodriguez says at work on a recent Friday, wiping a tear. Its your life. Rachels husband and business partner, Rodolfo Rudy Rodriguez, says the challenges only grew in recent years, particularly during the pandemic. For two years its been rough, he said. But we did everything we could to hold on to it. Today, the stores sign still states, Constantines Wood Center, Serving Satisfied Craftsmen For Over Two Centuries. But now a large banner looms over it, announcing in all capitals, Store Closing. Everything Must Go! Establishing a company The Oakland Park store sign gives a nod to the companys long history, noting its first iteration was established in the early 1800s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A founder was Thomas Constantine, whose family immigrated from England to New York City when he was a child, and then he, as a young adult, went on to become a cabinetmaker, according to a biography about him featured on the U.S. Senates website. Between 1806 and 1812, Constantine apprenticed with New York City cabinetmaker John Hewitt, and then served as a journeyman in the same shop between 1812 and 1814, the biography says. Thomas opened his own cabinet shop in 1815, and in 1817 his firm, T. Constantine & Co., began competing with some of the citys most notable furniture manufacturers. Some of his work would tie into American history: He pitched in with furniture as America recovered from the War of 1812. On Aug. 24, 1814, during the War of 1812, British troops burned the Capitol and almost all other public buildings in Washington, including the Senate building. America called on Constantine: In 1818, the U.S. government hired him to provide furnishings for the Senate, reads an article in The New Yorker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He received a contract to provide the House of Representatives Chamber with carpets, wall hangings, lamps, 192 chairs, and 51 tables, according to the Senate website. The following year, Constantine was awarded a contract to furnish the Senate Chamber with 48 mahogany armchairs and desks, as well as other furnishings, lighting, and textiles. Constantines brother, John, is known to have assisted with the upholstery of the chairs made for both chambers. The Oakland Park shop has some of the family memorabilia, including portraits, and a receipt of sale from the government which has line items for 48 desks ($34 each) and chairs ($46 each), eight sofas ($150 each) and five committee room tables ($48 each), among other items. There were only 48 desks and chairs because it was the 1800s and since Alaska and Hawaii didnt join the union until 1959. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The work was so famous in its time that a box of Constantines wood samples also is now owned by the National Museum of American History. An old black-and-white photo shows the Constantines store in the Bronx, with a 1950s Buick parked right outside. Visit our display room for craft supplies, reads the sign on the stores exterior. The business closed in 2001. The family said at the time that the New York stores closure may have been hastened by poor access and no adjacent parking and high taxes and the upkeep. A move to Florida When Rachel Rodriguezs father, John Constantine Docherty, moved to South Florida in 1974, he opened J.C. Woodcraft Center on Oakland Park Boulevard in 1975. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Docherty told the South Florida Sun Sentinel in 2001 that the store lost money over the first eight years until he renamed it Constantines Wood Center, recognizing the value of the family name and noting that South Florida was teeming with New Yorkers. He added and then discarded a power tool line, unable to beat the prices of chains such as Home Depot, and added what became a successful line of decorative moldings. Some of the items neatly arranged on the store shelves have been in their packages for decades, unsold, like a blending stain, still in the envelope marked with their last New York location on Eastchester Road in the Bronx. Other items fly off the shelves and have been the bread-and-butter as high-end customers seek unique lines and colors for their custom charcuterie boards and cutting boards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes exotic items of Bubinga wood and zebrawood from Africa, purpleheart wood from Dutch Guiana, and India padauk. There are shelves of basswood sticks, a mainstay for architecture college students who seem to pop in at the same time each year when their midterm 3D models are due. The shop sometimes has had to rush orders to soothe college students in a panic who proclaimed, My project is due in two days! A South Florida family Rudy Rodriguez said hes grateful for what they have had. He and Rachel met when they were students at Northeast High School in Oakland Park, and when he saw her in the hallway, it was love at first sight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he was just a sophomore and she was a junior, so she rebuked his interest. I was a class above him so I couldnt be bothered with him, she admits. But Rudy was persistent. A love affair blossomed. Then they had two children while still in school, so Rudys relationship with his future father-in-law started off strained, he said. I had to earn my father-in-laws love, he said. We didnt start off on the right foot. At age 20, he was finally hired to paint the warehouse floor and he never left, grateful to his father-in-law for teaching him how to run a business and the sales associates who taught him everything he needed to know about wood, including the right way to color match and how to use a table saw. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2001, Rachel Rodriguezs father made the duo his officers, and when he retired, she and her husband took over in September 2012. Today Rudy Rodriguez is 50 and his wife is 51. The store and its financial success through the years helped them raise three children and buy their starter house, and then the next house. They knew it was a legacy that mattered. I told her dad it wasnt going to close on my watch, Rudy Rodriguez said. I meant it. But we didnt anticipate the pandemic. For two years its been rough but we did everything we could to hold on to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My dad has given him his blessing, Rachel Rodriguez said in assurance. Its had its run. Definitely the quality One of Constantines loyal customers has been Mike Schneider, owner of Flatface Fingerboards in Andover, Mass. Hes been buying veneer thin wood from them for more than a decade online, from the Constantines website. He uses it to make miniature skateboards, items that are used with fingers instead of feet for tricks and competitions. They are one of my best sources for wood, he said. Definitely the quality over everything else, thats the No. 1 (thing) I look for. Seth Brody tagged along with his father, who was a customer when the younger Brody was a high school student at Nova High in the 1990s. Brodys dad repaired furniture and popped in to buy items such as wheels for an end table. Now Brody lives in Brooklyn, but when he was in South Florida on vacation and saw the closing sign, he had to come by. For old times sake. He bought a veneer pack, packs of 30 wood species that are 3-inch-by-6-inch each, for a planned coffee table. He fondly remembers the days of purchasing wood when customers could see the wood, touch the wood. Even other businesses give them business. Kimberly Transtrum, manager at Builders Direct Kitchen, which shares the building as an adjacent storefront, said she is saddened to see the wood shop close. Because her business is kitchen and bath remodeling, she said they have used Constantines over the years for moldings and decorative trims and stains. She said Builders Direct Kitchen is now in talks with the landlord to take over the wood shops space. Its very sad to see a family-run business go out of business after so many years, she said. Rudy Rodriguez knows many of the regulars by name. Im going to miss the customers, he says. It often was, Hey, John! Hey, Larry! Hey, Bob! Facing change Today, the Rodriguezes say its a different experience to run the store, with spiraling overhead and increasing rent and clamps and fasteners and brushes and glues that can be bought online. Even the luggage locks dont sell any longer. We discovered Amazon has everything, Rachel Rodriguez said. There are items that lay unwanted, such as decorative ornaments for dressers and furniture. We used to not be able to keep these things in stock, she said. But now I cant sell them. Theres not enough sales so not enough capital to buy the products that sell, she said. As customers habits were changing, the COVID pandemic delivered a crushing blow. Suppliers who always used a middleman now pivoted to sell to customers directly or through Amazon, said Rudy Rodriguez. Because of online competitors, customers no longer needed a specialty shop for mainstream items of tools, such as chisels, although the ones sold at Constantines are made of steel and have a wood handle. Rudy Rodriguez said he cant compete against the plastic furniture made from Ikea and the tools sold in hardware stores that are made in China. They think the doors will stay open till the end of January as they try to unload their remaining inventory. Looking ahead There is sweetness in their memories and their legacy, but theres also a pang of regret. Rudy Rodriguez wonders aloud, what if they knew more about marketing? What if they were more tech savvy and knew more about social media? Would that have made any difference? I never thought Id be the one to close the place, he said. Rachel Rodriguez stares at the family portraits on the wall. One of the portraits shows her great-grandfather, Albert Constantine Jr., who at 18 joined his fathers business in 1920, started the Constantine Craft Division and also wrote the book, Know Your Woods. I think theyd say it was something to be proud of, she says. Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar recorded an interview with the founders of Outta Wax, a vinyl record pressing plant in south Minneapolis, on April 24, 2024. The recording was later captured on a bright blue vinyl. Photo by Michelle Griffith/Minnesota Reformer. My personal journalistic highlight of the year came from seeking an answer to a simple question: What did U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar actually say? The question arose when social media posts asserted Omar said in her native Somali language that Somali-Americans are people who know they are Somalians first, Muslims second. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This led to a wave of attacks about Omars failing to state her allegiance to the United States, including from her colleague U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer. Both local and national media kept doing that thing where they refer to a controversy without any reference to who was actually correct. They were especially hobbled by their lack of Somali language speakers. So the Reformer hired two translators, and they helped us show that Omar had been smeared by a Somali political rival. Just a few months later, I edited an investigative story by Max Nesterak detailing Omars husbands business failures. Before publication, his lawyer sent us a letter that included an unsubtle threat of litigation. We ran the story anyway. All in a years work at the Reformer, where we take seriously the phrase, without fear or favor. Among the best features of this job is that every day is different, and this year that was especially true. Even as we were publishing stories on the November election last fall, I spent a lot of time with the Rev. JaNae Bates and her incarcerated fiance Jamel Dontez Hatcher, for a story that explored the nature of redemption, even for someone who has taken a life. The Rev. JaNaes Bates sings along with the choir at Camphor Memorial United Methodist Church in the Rondo neighborhood Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer. The biggest news event in Minnesota was the selection of Gov. Tim Walz as Democratic nominee for vice president. Because Ive covered Walz since the spring of 2017, I tried to be ready when his name was included in the list of potential candidates. I wrote an introductory profile that was republished as a nonprofit news outlet, we allow and even encourage republication all over the country as the nation tried to get to know an unknown Midwestern governor. I wrote about his various misstatements, as well as a column defending Minnesota values and quality of life to a national audience. And, with Michelle Griffith, I wrote about his post-defeat trip home and what would come next for Walz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My favorite columns were often written in a flash of anger. Like when Minnesota Republicans endorsed Donald Trump for president during the GOP primary campaign. Or how a wage theft case at a dairy farm illustrated Americas two justice systems one for rich, and another for the poor. Or when local governments put up roadblocks to pro-housing bills at the Legislature. Or when the Minneapolis Police Department claimed officers were truthful in the Jaleel Stallings case. As an editor, I consider myself remarkably fortunate to work with the talented reporters weve gathered at the Reformer. They make my job easy because they do the laborious work of collecting facts. Often, when were discussing stories, I have a follow-up question about their work, and they already have an answer. The year was at times bittersweet, however. Although its high praise when the states biggest media organization is recruiting away your people, we were sad to lose reporter Deena Winter and Iron Range columnist Aaron Brown to the Star Tribune. Both produced top-flight journalism for us, helping our little news organization punch well above our weight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, they werent just colleagues they were part of the Reformer family. Thankfully, even if theyre now friendly competitors, the family part wont change. We hope your family and loved ones have a great 2025. Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. COVINGTON, La. (WGNO) Officers with the Covington Police Department have arrested one man and are searching for another in connection with a burglary at a UPS warehouse on Dec. 8. Man found dead near Lacombe boat launch, another man arrested CPD officials said officers and deputies with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office responded to the UPS distribution warehouse in the 2000 block of Ronald Reagan Highway after receiving reports of suspicious activity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the scene, officers said they arrested 25-year-old Howard Cole Jr., of Mississippi. He faces charges of simple burglary and resisting an officer by flight. Michael Abney Jr. (Courtesy: Covington Police Department) Howard Cole Jr. (Courtesy: Covington Police Department) Police say Cole was allegedly acting with another person, identified by detectives as 21-year-old Michael Abney Jr. CPD officials said officers are still searching for Abney, who is wanted on charges of simple burglary and resisting an officer by flight. Eight wounded following St. John the Baptist Parish shooting According to police, detectives are investigating the possibility that Cole and Abney are connected to a multi-state burglary ring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information about Abney can call the Covington Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 985-867-1200. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. This photo taken on Dec. 10, 2024 shows a view of the international container terminal at Yantai Port in east China's Shandong Province. (Photo by Tang Ke/Xinhua) "In the next five years, world GDP will grow by 55 trillion U.S. dollars, 70 percent of which will come from the Global South," said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan at the G20 Summit, noting that this equals the size of the global economy two decades ago when the G20 was founded. BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- In 2024, the global landscape has undergone profound transformations, marked by a series of challenges and conflicts. Amid these shifts, the Global South has risen with remarkable momentum, exerting a growing influence on human progress. With expanding economic power and growing political clout, the Global South has transitioned from being a long-discussed concept to a strong driving force actively shaping international politics. So what are the key factors behind its rapid surge? This photo taken on Oct. 23, 2024 shows the logo of the 16th BRICS Summit at the press center of the summit in Kazan, Russia. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) EXPANDING GLOBAL IMPACT The term "Global South" was first coined in 1969 by American political activist Carl Oglesby in his article about the Vietnam War. Today, it has become a prominent buzzword, representing a diverse group of developing nations advancing toward modernization and advocating for a more equitable global financial and political framework. Over the past year, several key moments have underscored this trend. In July, Belarus was officially welcomed as the 10th member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), enhancing SCO's capacity for regional cooperation and influence on the global stage. In September, the UN adopted the Pact for the Future at the Summit of the Future in New York. The pact responded to two key concerns of the Global South countries: the implementation of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the demand for better representation in global governance institutions. In the same month, the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a high-level security and defense forum in Asia-Pacific, also laid importance on the Global South by offering smaller developing countries a platform to address their security and development concerns. In October, the first in-person BRICS summit since the bloc's historic expansion was held in Kazan, Russia, following last year's pivotal meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. At the Kazan summit, a consensus was reached to invite a new group of countries to become BRICS partner nations, which further promoted the group's development. In November, the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and the 19th G20 Summit were held consecutively in Peru and Brazil. South Africa is poised to assume the G20 presidency in 2025, marking an unprecedented four consecutive terms of G20 presidency by Global South countries. Meanwhile, China is set to host the APEC summit in 2026. All of these show that the once marginalized Global South has emerged as one of the key drivers of the international agenda. A woman walks past a G20 logo near the main venue of the 19th G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong) GROWING ECONOMIC STRENGTH The rise of the Global South can be attributed to several factors, with its growing economic influence standing at the forefront. Despite a sluggish global economic recovery, the Global South nations have secured a steady economic growth and shown remarkable resilience. A report from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace revealed that since 2000, the G7's share of global GDP, as measured by purchasing power parity, has declined from 43 to 30 percent, while that of the five original BRICS countries has increased from just over 21 percent to nearly 35. According to the African Economic Outlook from the African Development Bank Group, the continent will retain its 2023 ranking as the second fastest-growing region in 2024 and 2025. The rebound in Africa's average growth includes a rise to 3.7 percent in 2024 and 4.3 percent in 2025, exceeding the projected global average of 3.2 percent. "In the next five years, world GDP will grow by 55 trillion U.S. dollars, 70 percent of which will come from the Global South," said UN Trade and Development Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan at the G20 Summit, noting that this equals the size of the global economy two decades ago when the G20 was founded. This economic shift has gone hand in hand with an increasing demand from the Global South to reform global economic governance to better reflect their developmental aspirations. In a declaration issued at this year's summit, BRICS leaders agreed to jointly develop the New Development Bank (NDB) into a new type of multilateral development bank in the 21st century. They also pledged to support the further expansion of NDB membership and expedited consideration of applications of BRICS countries in line with the NDB General Strategy and related policies. Moreover, in addition to welcoming "the use of local currencies in financial transactions between BRICS countries and their trading partners," BRICS leaders encouraged the advancement of a BRICS Cross-Border Payments Initiative, designed to strengthen banking networks within BRICS to facilitate trade settlements among member countries. The Global South Local Currency Cooperation Forum is held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Nov. 12, 2024. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua) SHARED POLITICAL GOALS Western media and think tanks have long argued that the diverse challenges and distinct circumstances faced by countries in the Global South make it difficult for them to unite and form a cohesive front. However, the emergence of Global South nations as significant political players in the past year underscores how common political goals have empowered them to collaborate and assert greater influence. Many Global South countries were once colonies of Western nations. The shared experience of exploitation, cultural imposition, and economic extraction has fueled their determination to resist foreign interference. In 2024, several African nations like Niger, Chad, and Senegal, have called for the withdrawal of Western troops from their territories, highlighting their efforts to assert sovereignty and pursue self-determined development paths. In addition, instead of following the lead of Western countries in addressing global challenges through sanctions and military interventions, the Global South has proposed its own solutions, advocating for peace, dialogue, and multilateralism. For instance, the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Third South Summit resulted in joint positions on critical issues, including the question of Palestine and the Ukraine crisis, underscoring the Global South's rejection of bloc politics and its commitment to fairness and justice. Another notable example of this collective political action is the "Friends of Peace" platform, which was launched by China, Brazil, and other like-minded Global South countries on the Ukraine crisis. Established at the United Nations, it seeks to accumulate conditions and create an atmosphere for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities and the resumption of peace talks. As Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated in his letter of congratulations to the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum, the Global South is ready to lead on the world stage to build a more inclusive and prosperous planet. "We are central players in the new global geopolitics, and we are ready to play a role commensurate with our political, economic and demographic weight," he said. A man is dead, and a home has been damaged following a violent incident on Monday morning in Durkeeville. Police said the victim, who had been shot, crashed his vehicle into a house on West 8th Street around 9:30 a.m. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< When authorities arrived on the scene, they found a man suffering from gunshot wounds inside the vehicle. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash also caused significant damage to the side of the house. Investigators believe the crash may be connected to a fight that occurred a few blocks away earlier in the morning, during which shots were reportedly fired. Residents on West 8th Street were shocked to see a heavy police presence and a crime scene in their typically quiet neighborhood. Many said this was the first time they had ever heard of a shooting in the area. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Crazy, man. Ive been here for about a year, so Ive never seen anything like this before, said Jacob Camlby, a local resident who witnessed the aftermath of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kenya Pugh, who has only lived in the area for a few months, also shared her surprise. Our area, our street is known for drug activity, bad things, but as I told you, its not the area, its the people in the area, Pugh said. Despite the recent violence, Pugh added that she sees police patrol the area regularly. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] But when they come, they come deep. But its to the point where this shouldnt happen, she said. I know the cops are good here, so my safety is pretty good. Authorities are continuing their investigation and believe the two incidents may be related, though details remain unclear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police have detained two individuals who are being questioned as witnesses to both the altercation and the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. JAMESVILLE, N.Y. (WSYR) Onondaga County Sheriff Toby Shelley is dealing with the fallout from the released bodycam of 14 corrections officers who attacked Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility on Dec. 9. From a tense standoff in the Town of Clay on Friday, Dec. 27 that lasted approximately five hours to concerns about the safety of inmates in Onondaga Co. jails, Sheriff Shelley has been on high alert since Attorney General Letitia James made the footage public. The sheriff said 35-year-old Nathan McRae called 911 dispatchers on Friday evening, threatening to use his firearms on the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, he said he wanted to shoot police officers because of what happened at Marcy, Sheriff Shelley said. Were keeping a close eye on this as it progresses. Shelley is preparing for the worst and hoping for the best, and he wants to make sure what happened at Marcy Correctional Facility does not happen to a single inmate in Onondaga County. You know, I did 30 years in the military so Im a rules follower and I expect people to follow the rules, he said. We run a tight ship here in Onondaga County so Im not expecting anything like this to happen in our jails. But perception is a concern and from what Sheriff Shelley has heard from inmates behind bars of the jails he oversees, there is work to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It seemed to be, like, a routine thing for some people in the jail at Marcythis type of behaviorand the inmates in our jails are saying, Yeah, whats new about this,' he said. Calls for change are being sent out across New York State. Sheriff Shelley is vowing accountability and said he wants to make sure what happened at Marcy does not overshadow the danger and difficult work done by his men and women behind the badge. People of Onondaga County should know that were watching things closely and we have a plan, he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. The latest brief by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association in its last-ditch battle against Californias AB5 independent contractor law is a mix of apocalyptic projections about the fate of leased owner-operators and complex arguments about state versus federal regulation and the interstate commerce clause of the Constitution. The OOIDA argument is narrower than the now-abandoned effort by the California Trucking Association that looked to invalidate all of AB5 under the issue of federal preemption of state laws. For example, in its concluding argument, OOIDA says the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals should invalidate AB5 and enjoin the enforcement of AB5 against independent truck drivers who operate in interstate commerce. The group argued that such a holding would protect interstate commerce while preserving [Californias] interest in applying its employment protections to local California truck drivers. The 9th Circuit already rejected the CTAs arguments against AB5 in April 2021. OOIDA was not a plaintiff in that suit but joined as a plaintiff later. There are distinct differences in what CTA argued then and what OOIDA is arguing now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before getting into its legal arguments, OOIDA offers dire projections of what will happen to leased independent owner-operators under AB5. However, that comes against a backdrop of there being no clear sign that trucking capacity has tightened since summer 2022, when AB5 came into effect for the states trucking community after the original CTA effort to overturn it stalled at the U.S. Supreme Court. One of the most basic measurements of trucking capacity, SONARs Outbound Tender Reject Index, since as this chart shows not shown any normous divergence since mid-2022 between the rate for the entire U.S. and that of Ontario, the city in Southern Californias Inland Empire that is the home of a huge number of warehouses stocked with goods waiting for transport to other parts of the U.S. after arriving at the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. The Ontario OTRI is represented by the yellow line. Where are the enforcement actions? Trucking industry personnel in California have noted they are surprised by the lack of any visible action taken via private lawsuit or government action that seeks a misclassification ruling under AB5. For example, this 2022 tweet from the states labor commissioner urged truckers who believed they were being improperly classified under AB5 to contact the commissioners office, which could launch an investigation. But no known action has been taken against a trucking company by that office for violations under AB5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In arguments that mirror what OOIDA first filed with the appellate court in August, the organization sees AB5 as so restrictive that it will effectively ban in the state the use of independent owner-operators leased on to carriers. Its latest brief is in response to the November filing by the states attorney generals office, which is the defendant in the lawsuit. [The state avoids] either admitting or denying OOIDAs contention that AB5s ABC test prohibits the operation in California of leased owner operators, OOIDA writes in its brief filed with the court the day after Christmas. But AB5 would even prohibit leased owner operators based outside of California from entering and exiting merely to pick up or haul freight into or out of the state. AB5s elimination of this entire category of businesses far exceeds the types of burdens that courts have found reasonable under the dormant Commerce Clause. There is no specific prohibition in AB5 against owner-operators in trucking, whether they are leased on to a company or hauling contract or spot business without a lease. The issue with AB5 in trucking, as it always has been since it became law for the entire state at the start of 2020 is the B prong of the ABC test in AB5. AB% didnt become law for trucking until after an injunction the CTA originally won at the start of 2020 fell victim to the legal process that culminated with the Supreme Courts denial of certiorari in 2022. The OOIDA case is a continuation of that case, but without CTA, the original plaintiff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The B prong says a worker can be an independent contractor if he or she performs work that is outside the usual course of the hiring entitys business. OOIDA responds to that in its latest brief by saying by definition, the work performed by a leased owner-operator, i.e., providing truck transportation of freight, is inevitably within the usual course of the [motor carrier]s business, quoting its president, Todd Spencer, from an earlier legal declaration in the case. That these leased owner operators may have the opportunity to work as or under a different legal entity in the trucking industry like an employee driver or motor carrier does not refute OOIDAs basic premise, the organizations brief said. AB5 closes Californias borders to an entire class of small businesses in the trucking industry nearly 600,000 nationwide. Among the key legal points made by OOIDA: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A state argument that OOIDA interprets as lumping together different types of drivers as essentially the same does not accurately portray reality in the industry, OOIDA writes in its brief. An independent owner-operator on a lease to a carrier, an employee truck driver and a small fleet owner operating with federal authority are distinct segments of the trucking industry with significantly different responsibilities and statutory and regulatory obligations, OOIDA said. They are not simply different truck driving jobs. Given that, there is no cost, compliance or otherwise, that leased owner operators can bear to keep their small businesses as independent contractor drivers for motor carriers. The OOIDA argument rests in part of a legal precedent called the Pike balancing test. In a webpage published by Professor Leora Harpza of the Western New England University School of Law, she defined the Pike balancing test from the name of the plaintiff in a 1970 case as holding that a state laws potential conflict with interstate commerce can be upheld so long as the burden it imposes is not excessive in relation to its value as a health, safety, environmental protection or consumer protection measure. The OOIDA argument relative to Pike is, one, that AB5 works to restrict leased owner-operators from out of state from working in California, and two, the state has never made a case why it has a compelling interest in classifying out-of-state workers as employees rather than independent. Instead, OOIDA argues that much of the focus of AB5 was on drayage workers operating out of the states ports. In a passage that most certainly would not have shown up in a CTA brief from when it was a plaintiff in the case, OOIDA writes that it is aware of the abuse and misclassification that drivers at the ports have faced and Defendants goal of remedying these issues with AB 5. But OOIDAs AB 5 challenge focuses on obtaining relief for truckers operating in interstate commerce, especially those from out of state. That drayage misclassification is not relevant to resolve whether the State would enjoy any benefit from enforcing AB 5 on interstate truckers, particularly with respect to those based outside of California. If AB5 applies to out-of-state drivers, which OOIDA argues it does, it is discriminatory against those carriers, according to the OOIDA brief. California-based carriers can spread the costs of complying with AB5 across a larger base of in-state business, the group said. The economies of scale give California trucking businesses the ability to spread out AB 5s increased costs over the majority, if not all, of their work occurring in California, the brief said. The get out of jail card that is in AB5s business-to-business exception is a multipart test that was designed to enable an independent contractor to be hired even in the face of the AB5 restrictions. But OOIDA argues that for owner-operators leased on to a carrier, there are provisions in the B2B exception that are in clear conflict with federal leasing laws. Accordingly, because the federal rules apply to all lease agreements between interstate motor carriers and owner-operator drivers, the B2B exemption discriminates against all leased owner-operators operating in interstate commerce and is unconstitutional, OOIDA wrote in its brief. More articles by John Kingston Trac Intermodals outlook at Moodys now negative, but debt rating affirmed Benesch 2024: Pent-up dollars could be big factor in logistics M&A next year Oil in 2025 increasingly looking like a buyers market The post OOIDAs latest move against AB5 focuses on leased owner-operators in California appeared first on FreightWaves. When asked at a recent press conference whether he believes Russias war with Ukraine will end in 2025, Vladimir Putin gave an odd answer. I believe in God, he said, and God is with us. A self-confident leader who believes the war is going well for his side would have answered with a forceful yes or no, perhaps even making a fist and waving it triumphantly as did Donald Trump after the failed attempt on his life in Butler, Pa. Instead, Putin invoked God, a response that smacks of uncertainty and doubt. Why call on the Almightys supposed support if you know youre winning and believe youll win? Why reach out to the heavens, if earthly matters are OK? Perhaps the war is going badly and Putin knows it? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, its remotely possible that Putin is a sincere believer, a tried-and-true enthusiast of the Russian Orthodox Churchs brand of Christianity, a devotee of the divine who cant resist constantly calling on God in the course of his everyday labors. That said, theres really no reason to believe in his religious sincerity. For one thing, hes a Russian street tough who clawed his way into the notoriously bloodthirsty KGB; neither his behavior nor his affiliation with a godless criminal institution bespeaks inordinate religiosity. For another, one doesnt have to be a cynic to suspect that Putin is obviously playing the religious card in order to reach out to ordinary Russians and underpin his crumbling legitimacy, just as Joseph Stalin did after Nazi Germanys attack on the Soviet Union in June 1941 revealed that many Soviets greeted the advancing Wehrmacht as their liberator from the communist hell. For a third, and only half-jokingly, is it reasonable to think that Putin has ever cracked open what Trump claims is his favorite book, the Bible? At least Trump has been photographed holding it. Has Putin? Does he, like Trump, have favorite passages that he just cant recall? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, does Putin really believe in God? If one considers that just about everything he utters is a lie, then the answer would have to be no. Certainly, the god he believes in, if he believes in some god, is not the God who gave humanity the Ten Commandments or delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Thou shall not kill doesnt quite go with a genocidal war against innocent Ukrainians and the targeted killing of ones political opponents. The Beatitudes are equally at odds with Putins style: Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. And this one above all: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Putins god might be the God of the Old Testament, who can be vengeful and wrathful, or he might be a pagan god Zeus, perhaps, or the Slavic version thereof, Perun. In either case, Putin is no Christian. That makes him an Orthodox apostate, a heretic who has no business crossing himself or consorting with clergy with the exception of the equally criminal Russian Orthodox Patriarch, Kirill, rumored to have been a KGB agent in Soviet times. Putin may be sincere in believing that God supports the special military operation, but how could he possibly know unless of course God speaks directly to him, perhaps while hes sleeping the sleep of the monstrously guilty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if Putin is sure that God does in fact speak to him, this can only mean that Russias dictator is a saint with a direct line to the Almighty. But sainthood for Putin seems like a strange choice for God to have made in light of his continued disregard for the Commandments and Beatitudes. Saints rarely lived perfect lives, but they all experienced conversions and thereupon turned their backs on their sinful lives something Putin has yet to do. Or did he have a Pauline conversion as his tanks rumbled down the road to Damascus? So, no, Putin almost surely doesnt believe in God and God almost surely is not with him and his genocidaires. But what if Putin believes hes God or at least godlike? Blasphemy isnt a hard sell for an old KGB hand, and delusion is right up the alley for a tyrant whos held power for 25 years. Ancient emperors regularly believed in their own divinity, so why not Putin? The question may strike us as outlandish, but only at first glance. Putin fashions himself as the savior of Russia and the world. Hes never wrong. He has a coterie of apostles. Russians worship him. And if he keeps Russia from losing the Ukraine war, he will have performed a miracle. All that would be left is a crucifixion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexander J. Motyl is a professor of political science at Rutgers University-Newark. A specialist on Ukraine, Russia and the USSR, and on nationalism, revolutions, empires and theory, he is the author of 10 books of nonfiction, as well as Imperial Ends: The Decay, Collapse, and Revival of Empires and Why Empires Reemerge: Imperial Collapse and Imperial Revival in Comparative Perspective. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In the wake of shifting workplace dynamics during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, federal employees find themselves at the center of a debate about telework. The U.S. Department of Labor is among the agencies navigating this terrain, with policies that increasingly pull workers back to the office. Aliyah Levin, president of AFGE Local 2391, which represents over 1,000 Department of Labor field bargaining unit employees in the western United States, provided a frontline perspective on this critical issue in her interview with me. For many federal employees, telework emerged as a lifeline during the pandemic. Beyond safeguarding public health, it revealed unexpected benefits: increased productivity, reduced costs and greater work-life balance/employee satisfaction. The union embraced these advantages, negotiating a two-day-a-pay-period in-office memorandum of understanding that aligned employees preferences with demonstrated operational effectiveness. However, the departments push to mandate an increased return to the office threatens this balance. As Levin succinctly puts it, Why go backwards? Telework has proven its value, yet the proposed shift raises questions about resource allocation, workplace logistics and employee well-being. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skeptics of telework often question whether remote arrangements maintain productivity, particularly in government roles where public trust is paramount. Levin counters with evidence. Metrics tied to investigations, audits and community engagement demonstrate that federal employees have met or exceeded performance goals, regardless of sitting in an office. According to data from the White House Office of Personnel Management, employees who work remotely frequently report higher engagement levels 77 percent versus 59 percent among primarily in-office workers. Moreover, 68 percent of frequent teleworkers say they plan to stay in their roles, compared to only 53 percent of their office-bound counterparts. These statistics highlight the critical role that flexibility plays in retaining talent and fostering long-term employee satisfaction. Beyond retention and engagement, the benefits of telework extend to performance. More than 84 percent of federal employees and managers surveyed said telecommuting has improved both the quality of work and customer satisfaction. Given this data, the Department of Labors rigid return-to-the-office mandate seems both shortsighted and misaligned with evidence-based management practices. The numbers speak for themselves, Levin says, pointing to the departments success in fulfilling its mission remotely. She highlights the cost savings associated with telework, from reduced office space to minimized commuting expenses, emphasizing the broader financial implications for taxpayers. If the work gets done, why pay for office space? Levin asks, underlining a critical disconnect between teleworks proven outcomes and the insistence on physical presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Los Angeles, the department, working with the union, took proactive steps to adapt office spaces to a hybrid work model. In her local office, just four cubicles accommodate 12 to 14 employees under a rotating schedule, with a shared conference room available for collaborative needs. This setup reflects the belief that office visits should be purposeful rather than obligatory. Reversing this arrangement poses logistical headaches. We thought telework was the future, Levin explains, noting the impracticality of cramming employees into spaces designed for a hybrid workforce. The shift not only disrupts routines but also risks fostering dissatisfaction among employees who have built their lives around telework. The impact of a full-time return to the office is deeply personal. For some, its a manageable adjustment; for others, its catastrophic. Employees with caregiving responsibilities, health concerns or long commutes face significant hardships. Moreover, many workers hired during the pandemic have never experienced a traditional office setup, making the transition even more daunting. Levin warns of potential retention issues, particularly among employees for whom telework was a key draw. A third or more of our workforce only knows remote work, she says. Losing these employees could create gaps in institutional knowledge and workforce capacity, especially in agencies like the Department of Labor that rely on specialized expertise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Levin stops short of predicting specific outcomes, she raises a critical question: What happens to public services if employees leave or morale diminishes? Agencies like OSHA, a Department of Labor branch responsible for workplace safety, could see slower response times to complaints or fewer compliance audits. Over time, these gaps could have tangible consequences for American workers. Yet Levin emphasizes that federal employees are dedicated public servants who take pride in their work. Theyll get the job done, she asserts, even under less-than-ideal circumstances. But sustaining this commitment requires policies that respect employees needs and the proven efficiencies of telework. The debate over telework is far from settled, but Levin hopes for a resolution that balances operational needs with employee well-being. As she and her union colleagues continue to advocate for flexible policies, they serve as a reminder that workplace decisions have far-reaching implicationsnot just for employees, but for the public they serve. For federal workers and their unions, telework represents more than a convenience; its a modern approach to achieving government objectives efficiently and equitably. Reverting to pre-pandemic norms risks undermining these gains and alienating a workforce that has shown it can adapt and thrive. The challenge now is for leadership to listen, evaluate the data, and chart a path forward that builds on the lessons of the past three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gleb Tsipursky, PhD, serves as the CEO of the hybrid work consultancy Disaster Avoidance Experts and wrote the best-seller Returning to the Office and Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Since the conclusion of the election, much of the media have painted Imperial Valley as having dramatically shifted its politics . With President-elect Donald Trump jumping from 37% of the 2020 vote in the region to 49% this year , many now claim that it has flipped from blue to red. Are we a once-blue county making a revolutionary realignment toward the Republican Party, or one growing more purple? The truth is neither. The Imperial Valley is not living through a left-versus-right war, a storyline far too easy and convenient for pundits to resist as they lazily view our region as a political novelty. Trumps strong local finish does not mark a sudden conservative awakening, just as the regions previous Democratic lean did not reflect an unwavering progressive faith. The truth is more damning. The Imperial Valley is neither red nor blue. Instead, it is a place that feels betrayed by both parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Guerrero: If Democrats want to hold Imperial County, they'll have to work for it Imperial County is the youngest county in California, forgotten in its southeast corner. We have long been treated like the runt of the litter, distancing ourselves from politics and known for having low voter turnouts . This election was not a revolt against Democrats or a sudden embrace of Republicans. It was an indictment of everyone. Officials and leaders from both sides of the political aisle have learned to deploy a familiar vocabulary when describing our region. The words underserved and disadvantaged are used casually as if they were harmless verbal placeholders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once upon a time, these words might have sparked outrage and action. Now, locals are numb to their hollow repetition. Theyve become a soothing lullaby for policymakers, as if labeling our crises is enough to gloss over the harsh reality of what those words actually mean. The New River continues to poison our land, water, air and collective future with wastewater and pollutants, including asbestos . In October, state officials visited and committed funding to clean up the polluted Tijuana River in wealthier San Diego County, while ours remains ignored. The Salton Sea, once an icon of opportunity as a resort destination, continues to shrink rapidly, exposing toxic dust and polluted earth. Discussions about saving the sea have persisted for decades, yet there are only hay bales to show for it . Weve had the highest unemployment rate in the state this year nearly four times the California average for as long as I can remember. With these multigenerational scars , it should come as no surprise that many here have resigned themselves to a tragic stasis and a sense that what is broken will remain broken. Even recent decisions affecting our future reveal how Sacramento and Washington, D.C., continue to let us down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Opinion: Imperial County residents deserve to benefit from a potential lithium boom Lithium extraction in the northern part of the county, dubbed " Lithium Valley ," is supposed to help save us from our employment and economic woes and power the countrys clean energy transition. Yet local leaders have to fight desperately for support from the state and federal government. In September, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have designated Lithium Valley and all Imperial County surrounding the Salton Sea as the Southeast California Economic Region to better align state and federal support surrounding affected communities and clean energy development in the area. The same month, the Biden administrations Department of Energy Loan Programs Office awarded $3 billion in grants for domestic battery production not a single dollar of which made it to Imperial Valley. Recently the federal government went even further and put a price tag on our most precious resource: water. In exchange for our commitment to use less of it, the Bureau of Reclamation released $250 million for Salton Sea restoration efforts . But less water in a region founded, built and dependent on agriculture equals fewer jobs. Fewer jobs mean fieldworkers out of work and left to wonder about their place in our future. Community advocates now ask if that quarter of a billion dollars will be used for the greater good or find its way into select pockets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Growing up during Republican Gov. Pete Wilsons administration, I remember my parents talking about the same issues my daughter hears now: the New River. The Salton Sea. High unemployment. Water wars. The difference is that today's technology allows her a glimpse of the outside world. Shes seen whats out there, what could be here, and wonders why it isnt. Make no mistake, my frustration stems not from a lack of love for this community, but from an abundance of it. Every day I witness the shared strength of our people. Imperial Valley is filled with families that work harder than most people can imagine, that celebrate lifes joys despite the circumstances. This frustration isnt about hating where I live its about feeling that weve been shortchanged for far too long. Were a community rich in culture, in spirit and in potential. Our unfulfilled potential is mocked by blatant neglect and empty promises. This election is not a cautionary tale for the Democrats, nor a success story for Republicans. It is a warning to both. The Imperial Valley is not a prize to be brandished after each election cycle. Our plight is not red or blue; it is human. This is our home, our community, and we have a future worth fighting for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gil Rebollar is a lifelong Brawley resident and mayor of Brawley. He represents the seven incorporated cities of Imperial County on the Southern California Assn. of Governments Regional Council. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. President-elect Donald Trump has made clear his intent to supercharge his America First approach to foreign policy in his second term and Mexico looks set to be at the tip of the spear. While many of Trumps predecessors have also followed a realist strategy that is, one in which relative power is at the forefront of international relations and diplomatic success is viewed through how it benefits ones own nation the incoming president has displayed an apparent unwillingness to consider the pain that his plans would inflict on targeted countries or the responses this will engender. Trumps proposed policies threaten Mexico in three key ways: First, his goal of deporting millions of migrants would put tremendous pressure on Mexicos economy and society as the country tried to absorb the influx. This would be exacerbated by his second threat, a sharp increase in tariffs , which could devastate the critical export sector of Mexicos economy. And third, Trump has floated the idea of using U.S. military power to confront narcotraffickers within Mexico which would directly impinge on Mexicos sovereignty and could generate more violence on both sides of the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Mexico has several options to push back on Trump by imposing high costs on U.S. interests. Indeed, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has already signaled how she may counter Trumps policies. The most obvious tools are ending cooperation on drugs and immigration and imposing tariffs of her own. She could also revoke some of the decades-old tax and labor privileges that have benefited U.S. businesses operating within Mexico. And finally, she could play the China card that is, in the face of worsening U.S.-Mexico ties, Mexico could turn to Washingtons biggest economic rival at a time when Beijing is seeking to assert more influence across Latin America. Sheinbaum has said she wants to avoid a trade war , but Trumps threats have led her nonetheless to talk about how a trade war would begin. This trade war, plus other costs Sheinbaum could impose on U.S. investors, would also likely foment a coalition of opposition within the U.S. If Trump abrogates trade deals and imposes tariffs, he might convince investors to spend their next dollars in the U.S. But if Mexico imposes tariffs, business taxes or investment restrictions , what would happen to investors farms and factories already in Mexico? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Past experience suggests that any disruption to supply chains or U.S. export markets would awaken strong business opposition, as analysts and business groups have already recognized . Trump is not immune to pressure from U.S. businesses. During his first administration, companies successfully opposed Trumps attempt to close the border , arguing that slowing the flow of immigrants also meant slowing trucks full of goods. On the issue of border and immigration, while Trump has issued threats , Sheinbaum has stressed the importance of cooperation. Currently the Mexican government expends significant resources to patrol its own southern border, not to mention dealing with the many potential migrants who gather in its northern cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mexico could demand more support from the U.S. in exchange for this work plus the costs associated with welcoming back the estimated 4 million Mexicans who are currently in the U.S. without proper documentation. The deportation of undocumented immigrants that Trump has repeatedly promised would require other types of cooperation, such as processing border crossings, and Mexico could slow-walk this process. Mexico has already signaled that it will withhold processing of non-Mexicans . The two countries have a history of collaboration in addressing the illegal drugs trade but here too there have also been tensions. For example, toward the end of Trumps first term, a Mexican general was arrested in the U.S. on drug charges. After a diplomatic uproar, he was returned to Mexico and released. In late November, Sheinbaum noted that she and Trump had discussed security cooperation within the framework of our sovereignty. But Trumps campaign rhetoric seemed less concerned with Mexicos sovereignty, floating the idea of sending troops to the border or even deploying them within Mexico to counter narcotraffickers. That would clearly enrage Mexico, with consequences that would extend far beyond a willingness to cooperate on the issues of drug trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One country that stands to benefit should U.S.-Mexican relations deteriorate is China an issue that Mexico could exploit. China is now the first or second trading partner with nearly every country in Latin America, including Mexico. The value of U.S.-Mexico trade is over $100 billion a year , but the growth of Chinese imports into Mexico has been limited somewhat by rules-of-origin provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement and its Trump-era successor, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. A U.S.-Mexico trade war could weaken or end any incentive to keep Chinese goods out. Further, if the doors to the United States are narrowed through tariffs and hostile rhetoric , Chinas car parts and financial services would clearly become even more attractive to Mexican businesses. A U.S.-Mexican trade war, in short, would augment Beijings access to a market on the U.S. border. In sum, if Trump goes through with his threats, the result will be costs to consumers and businesses, plus a new opportunity for China. This is likely to foment a coalition of industries, investors and consumers and foreign policy experts concerned with China many parts of which supported Trumps campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scott Morgenstern is a professor of political science and past director of the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Pittsburgh. This article was produced in partnership with the Conversation. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. In the wake of Syrias over-decade-long war, a new battle has emerged. Just weeks after dropping bombs on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Islamist fighters overthrowing the Assad regime, Russia is jousting with the West to engage with the new HTS-led government in Damascus. The pace of Russias reversal on HTS, which it has long designated a terrorist organization, has been swift. While Russian state-media continues to decry Damascuss new leaders as extremist jihadists, the State Duma passed a law allowing Russian courts to suspend terrorist designations. The law opens a pathway for Russian normalization with HTS, an initiative now heralded by Ramzan Kadyrov, the Vladimir Putin-allied head of Chechnya. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kremlins motivation? Two long-standing Russian military bases in Syria that have become vital to an increasingly adventurist Moscow. Putin has not made these intentions secret. In his annual end-of-year news conference, Putin made clear that Russia was actively negotiating with HTS to keep control of its naval base in Tartus and its airbase in Latakia. If Washington slow-walks engagement with Damascus, the U.S. risks allowing Putin to get the best foot forward as the power vacuum in Syria is filled. Washington need not give Damascuss new Islamist leaders immediate carte blanche. However, without any meaningful direct engagement, the U.S. provides little incentive for HTS to prioritize American geopolitical interests over Russias. The co-authors of the most recent congressional sanctions legislation targeting the former Assad regime, Rep. Brendan Boyle, chair of the Free Syria Caucus, and Rep. Joe Wilson, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East, penned a letter outlining a new Syria strategy in the days following the fall of Assad. They urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and national security adviser Jake Sullivan to adopt a phased approach to sanctions relief, aimed at pushing the new HTS-led government in Damascus to comply with international norms. The congressmen promote the plan as a way to facilitate international investment and the reconstruction of Syria, while prioritizing U.S. security interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HTS has taken over a Syria devastated by years of indiscriminate Assad regime and Russian bombing that simply cannot be rebuilt without foreign relief. The incentive structure laid out by Boyle and Wilson, backed by American economic power, would leave crippled and overstretched Russia with a weak hand to negotiate for its bases on the Syrian coast. So far, Russia has only meagerly offered to use the bases as a means to deploy humanitarian aid. The impact of locking out Moscow from its bases in Syria would be felt in geopolitical arenas beyond the Middle East especially in Ukraine and across Africa, where Russia is directly competing against U.S. interests. The U.S. stands to reap the benefits from any and all disruptions to Russias expansionist activity. Amid Russias invasion of Ukraine, the Tartus naval base has afforded Moscow a vital pressure point in the Mediterranean on NATOs southern flank. Russian vessels have used the base as refuge from Ukrainian drones that have targeted and successfully sunk Russian naval assets in the Black Sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Khmeimim airbase in Latakia has been a lifeline for Russias expanding influence in Africa, from Libya to several sub-Saharan countries, as a hub for personnel deployment and resupply. Without the base, Russia will likely be forced to upgrade its military presence and infrastructure in Libya. The Kremlin is acutely aware of what it stands to lose if it fails to come out on top in the fight to engage with the new Syrian government the 49-year Assad-granted leases on their military bases could be moot on the whim of HTS. Washington would be remiss to not take quick advantage of the opportunity to snub Russias global influence. Kareem Rifai is a Syrian-American graduate student at the Georgetown Security Studies program. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Oregon is ending 2024 with the states highest pertussis case count in 74 years, prompting state health officials to encourage vaccines against the disease. As of December 30, the Oregon Health Authority has reported 1,105 cases of pertussis also known as whooping cough in 2024, marking the highest number of cases since 1950, which saw 1,420 reported cases. According to OHA, 2024s case count is an extremely high number considering the disease can be prevented by vaccine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescue teams gear stolen hours after finding men who died Sasquatch hunting The pertussis vaccine is a public health success story in terms of its effectiveness in reducing severe illness and deaths from the diseaseparticularly among infants, said Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHAs Public Health Division, in a press release issued Monday. The warning from OHA comes as Oregon saw 44 whooping cough outbreaks in 2024. However, most of 2024s cases were individual or household-related and were not related to an outbreak, OHA noted. Since 2003, eight Oregonians with pertussis have died, with five of those cases involving Oregonians who were under four months old, OHA said. Three adults with the disease have recently died, including one death in 2023 and two deaths in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Father arrested in Portland after abducting children from Olympia The median age of the 2024 cases is 12, with over 7% of cases found in children less than a year old. Additionally, 80% of the cases are among those 18-years-old or younger and about half of the cases are up to date on pertussis vaccines, officials said. Lane County has reported the highest number of whooping cough cases in 2024 with 315 cases followed by Multnomah County with 235 cases, Clackamas County with 135 cases, Washington County with 119 cases, and Marion County with 75 cases, according to OHA. Even though Oregon has not surpassed the 1950 record for most cases in one year OHA is still concerned about the high number of cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KOIN Morning Digest Cieslak noted that whooping cough cases routinely reach the triple digits, except during the COVID-19 pandemic which saw lower case counts amid school closures and masking requirements. During this time, vaccination rates also slipped, he said. People were less motivated to get vaccinated against pertussis when there was less concern they would be exposed to the infection in the first place, Cieslak added. Because whooping cough activity is high in 2024, there are more chances for people to be exposed, Cieslak said, noting those who are unvaccinated or are too young to be vaccinated such as infants pose the highest risk for infection, with babies most likely to be hospitalized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are ways to protect vulnerable individuals, OHA says. This includes pregnant people getting the Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis at 27-36 weeks gestation to protect their baby. Oregon DMV warns of fraudulent vehicle, dealership scams OHA explained mothers will make antibodies and pass them to their babies, which will protect them from the moment at birth and is recommended during each pregnancy. In recent years, about two-thirds of pregnant Oregonians have been getting vaccinated during pregnancy, Cieslak said. However, only 11 of the mothers of the 80 infant cases this year had documentation of having gotten the recommended shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health officials said vaccination against whooping cough is routinely recommended for infants, children, adolescents, and adults. Children should receive the DTaP vaccine at ages two, four, six, and 15-18 months old and again at 4-years-old to kindergarten age. All people 10-years-old and older should receive a single dose of the Tdap vaccine. Additionally, when pertussis strikes a household in which an infant or pregnant person lives, we recommend all members of the household receive a course of antibiotics effective against Bordetella pertussistypically, a five-day course of azithromycin, Cieslak said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) In one of his final acts in office, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper commuted the death sentences of 15 men convicted of first-degree murder to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Tuesday, reducing the state's death row population by more than 10%. Cooper, who was barred from seeking a third consecutive four-year term, will give way to fellow Democrat Josh Stein on Wednesday when Stein takes the oath of office. Cooper, who was previously the attorney general for 16 years, said his commutation decisions occurred following a thorough review of petitions offered by defendants and input from prosecutors and victims' families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before Tuesday, North Carolina had 136 offenders on death row. Cooper's office said it had received clemency petitions from 89 of them. Cooper's office said it considered a variety of factors, such as a defendant's conduct in prison, the adequacy of legal representation and sentences received by co-defendants. These reviews are among the most difficult decisions a Governor can make and the death penalty is the most severe sentence that the state can impose, Cooper said in a news release. After thorough review, reflection, and prayer, I concluded that the death sentence imposed on these 15 people should be commuted, while ensuring they will spend the rest of their lives in prison. North Carolina is one of 27 states that have the death penalty as a criminal punishment, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, although governors in five of those states currently have placed executions on hold. While North Carolina is not one of those five, an execution hasn't been carried out in the state since 2006. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of defendants sentenced to death in North Carolina has also dwindled in recent years, as prosecutors have more leeway in state law to decide whether to try a capital case. Even after Tuesday's action, North Carolina has the fifth-largest death row by population in the country, according to the North Carolina Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. Although some groups opposed to the death penalty have sought from Cooper a complete commutation for all on death row, they still praised him for what they called a historic act of clemency. State Department of Adult Correction records list 13 of the 15 receiving clemency as Black. The convictions dates for the 15 range from 1993 to 2011. Cooper joins the ranks of a group of courageous leaders who used their executive authority to address the failed death penalty, Chantal Stevens, executive director of American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, said in a separate release. We have long known that the death penalty in North Carolina is racially biased, unjust, and immoral, and the Governors actions today pave the way for our state to move towards a new era of justice. Cooper received national attention this year as he surfaced as a potential running mate for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stein succeeded Cooper as attorney general in 2017. The Attorney General's Office participates in death penalty appeals. Among the 15 receiving commutations on Tuesday include Hasson Bacote, who was convicted of first-degree murder in 2009 in Johnston County. Bacote had been challenging his death sentence under the 2009 Racial Justice Act, which allowed prisoners to receive life without parole if they can show that racial bias was the reason for their death sentence. While the law was repealed in 2013, the state Supreme Court ruled later that most prisoners currently on death row could still use the law retroactively. Bacote's recent hearing before a judge based on that law was considered a test case. Groups backing Bacote's litigation said Tuesday they still anticipate a ruling in his case because of the widespread public interest in the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another whose sentence was commuted is Guy LeGrande, who was once set to be executed in late 2006 before a judge halted it and later cited LeGrande's severe mental illness. He was convicted in Stanly County of the 1993 killing of a woman whose estranged husband offered to pay him a portion of life insurance proceeds. Another death row inmate receiving clemency, Christopher Roseboro, was convicted of murder and rape in the death of a 72-year-old Gastonia woman in 1992. Last week, President Joe Biden announced that he was commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 people on federal death row, converting their punishments to life imprisonment. Separately Tuesday, Cooper announced that he had commuted the sentences of two prisoners convicted of murder so that they are immediately parole eligible. One defendant has served 34 years, while the other has served 27 years. Palestinian refugee Bassem Medhat is seen in Cairo, Egypt, Dec. 31, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) CAIRO, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- "As the new year is approaching, we pray for peace in Gaza," Bassem Medhat, a Palestinian refugee who had fled the war-torn enclave, voiced the sentiments of thousands now seeking refuge in Egypt. Medhat, 59 years old, was once a successful restaurateur in Gaza. Now he runs a modest eatery in the heart of Cairo, where the smell of spices and the familiar taste of home offer many of his fellow Palestinians in Cairo a comforting refuge. Forced to abandon his thriving businesses, comfortable villa, and cars, Medhat arrived in Egypt in March with his wife and seven children. "We left everything behind," he said in a sad tone. "But we did not lose our hope. This year, we pray for an end to the fighting, for the chance to go back to Gaza and rebuild our lives." Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a rampage led by Hamas through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage. According to the Gaza-based health authorities, since the outbreak of the conflict, the Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza has topped 45,000. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the number of Palestinians arriving from the Gaza Strip to Egypt since Oct. 7, 2023, has reached more than 100,000, in addition to thousands of others who were already in Egypt before the war began. The whispers of a possible ceasefire have infused the Palestinian community in Cairo with a renewed sense of optimism. Medhat, like many others, clings to the possibility of return, envisioning a Gaza where his children can grow up safe, where the sounds of laughter replace the rumbling of bombs. "We dream of a Gaza where our children can have a normal childhood," he told Xinhua. "A Gaza where they can go to school without fear, where they can play in the streets without the threat of bombs." The hopes of Medhat, and thousands of other Palestinians in Egypt, are entangled with the fate of their homeland. Heba Hashim, a young Palestinian woman studying medicine in Cairo, shared this longing for a peaceful future. While grateful for the safety she has found in Egypt, her heart aches for her family and friends who are still trapped in Gaza. "Every day, I worry about them," she said, her voice strained with concern. "The news from Gaza is devastating. But I have hope that this year will be different. This year, we will see peace return to Gaza." Hashim, who was in Egypt before the war started, dreams of using her medical skills to heal the wounds of war, to contribute to the rebuilding of her homeland. The young lady hoped to see a Gaza where "hospitals are for patients, not war victims." "I want to be part of the solution," she said with determination. "I want to help rebuild Gaza, to create a better future for our people. This year, I hope to see that dream become a reality." MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) The Prichard Water Works & Sewer Board reported that 10 sewer overflows spilled over 1.5 million gallons of wastewater following this past weekends storms that brought damage to the Mobile area. Mobile Fire-Rescue responds to Monday night fire at local school According to a Mobile County Health Department news release, the following sanitary sewer overflows began on Dec. 27 and ended on Dec. 29: Location Estimated Gallons Receiving Water N. Bessemer Ct. & Whistler St. 301,500 Gum Tree Branch 218 Patricia Ave. 117,000 Gum Tree Branch 2407 Whistler St. 243,000 Gum Tree Branch 830 Strauss Ave. 132,000 Toulmins Spring Branch 824 E. Seminary 171,250 Toulmins Spring Branch 823 N. College St. 171,250 Toulmins Spring Branch 705 Sample St. 171,250 Toulmins Spring Branch 1205 W. Prichard Ave. 171,250 Toulmins Spring Branch 1820 First Ave. 29,750 Toulmins Spring Branch 1621 Main St. 29,750 Undetermined The above incidents, which officials said happened due to heavy rains, accounted for about 1,538,000 gallons of wastewater overflowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saraland man arrested after accidentally firing gun during altercation: Mobile police Health officials encourage residents to take precautions following the overflows. Area residents should take precautions when using Gum Tree Branch and Toulmins Spring Branch for recreational purposes because of these overflows, the MCHD release said. All seafood harvested in this general area should be thoroughly cooked before eating. People should wash their hands after cleaning seafood and before preparing food. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Some 35,000 Syrian refugees have left Turkey to return to their home country since the fall of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad earlier this month, according to official estimates. This means the same number of people have left Turkey since the beginning of December as in a normal three-month period, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on NTV. Turkey, which borders Syria to the north, has taken in the largest share of refugees from the war-torn country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Yerlikaya, some 2.9 million Syrian refugees are currently living in Turkey, including nearly 1 million children born there. Refugee children born in Turkey are not eligible for citizenship, but are given temporary protective status like their parents. Syrians living in Turkey have faced a rise in hostilities towards them, as more and more people in the government and the opposition demand that they return home. Millions of Syrians fled the country in the wake of the civil war that broke out when the regime violently supressed Arab Spring pro-democracy protests in 2011. Amid the years of devastating fighting that ensued, drawing in different foreign powers, al-Assad managed to regain control over about two-thirds of the country, before he was suddenly ousted by an Islamist-led rebel alliance on December 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syrians in exile around the world have celebrated his fall and with it the release of thousands of prisoners who had disappeared in the regime's notorious prisons. However, while Syria's new interim government has vowed to respect all minorities and religions, it remains to be seen whether peace can prevail in the highly fragmented country. ST. LOUIS Police in Missouri and Illinois are asking everyone to start 2025 on the right note by making safe and responsible decisions. During last years New Years holiday period, there were nine deaths reported and nearly 300 injuries in over 800 traffic crashes in Missouri alone. This years holiday counting period begins at 6 tonight and runs until 11:50 p.m. on Jan 1. If your plans include alcohol, officials stress the importance of designating a sober driver or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Illinois State Police shared this reminder: Call a sober friend, take a taxi or a city bus, or simply stay overnight, but dont get behind the wheel if youve been drinking or using drugs. In St. Louis, police are reminding people that celebratory gunfire is both illegal and dangerous. Under Blairs Law, even a first offense carries misdemeanor charges, with repeat offenses leading to felonies. Last year, St. Louis Police responded to more than 300 calls for stray bullets hitting homes and businesses. People go out on their front porch; they wish their neighbors a happy new year. There are children out there; people are in the streets celebrating; we have to keep it safe. As the chief said, what goes up must come down, said Chief Dennis Jenkerson, St. Louis Fire Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With extra officers on the streets, St. Louis Police are also cracking down on illegal short-term rental activity to reduce crime in the city. Downloading apps like MoDots Traveler Information App can also help you navigate the roads responsibly. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. SILVERHILL, Ala. (WKRG) A dog stolen from a home in Silverhill is finally reunited with his family after more than a year of searching. Authorities search for possible missing man near Fairhope Pier The 2-year-old English Sheep Dog named Rags went missing from Olivia Gardners home in Silverhill last December. Luckily she installed a Ring Doorbell the week before Rags was taken. The camera captured footage of a man wearing a mask walking into Gardners home and seconds later walking out with the dog in hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was speechless, Gardner said. God saved us, Summerdale couple takes shelter seconds before tree crashes into home The Silverhill Police Department immediately began investigating the incident, but Rags was nowhere to be found; however, Gardner never lost hope of finding her missing pup. But everything changed when Gardners phone lit up with a call from an Arizona phone number on the day after Christmas this year. All I remember is him saying, Can you pull over? I have something I need to show you,' Gardner said. Before I could even think about it, Im getting a FaceTime call from him. I answer it and he goes, I have something I need you to look at, and turns the camera and theres Rags! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers with the Maricopa Police Department found Rags at a home in Arizona. The officers were eager to reunite him with his family back home over 1,600 miles away in Silverhill. It was just such a relief to be able to see his face again, and he was happy with the police officers, Gardner said. They were wonderful. PHOTOS: Sperm whale washes up on Fort Morgan beaches Gardner immediately booked a flight to Arizona to pick Rags up and after spending just a few days together, its apparent the two are settling in pretty quickly. Weve been just kind of reminding him of what its like to be a dog and the joys of being out in the world and not hidden away, Gardner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while the two are taking some time to relax after all of the craziness, Gardner said she cant wait for the moment she gets to bring Rags back to Baldwin County. They need to find who did this: Officials continue search for person who threw puppies off Dog River Bridge Hes got quite the fan club now, so theres a lot of people wanting to meet him, Gardner said. I mean, he obviously has no idea whats coming, but I cant believe Im going to be able to bring him home. She told WKRG she plans to head back home later this week but said she wanted to emphasize the importance of getting your pets microchipped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Microchip your pets, Gardner said. No matter what he looks like, what color or the pigment of his nose is, that microchip is always going to lead them back to you and was one of the biggest identifying pieces of his story. The Silverhill Police Departments investigation remains ongoing with identified suspects in several states. They said criminal charges are pending. Federal investigation into bald eagle nest removal in Auburn remains unresolved Gardner adopted Rags in 2023 from a couple in Fairhope who no longer wanted the dog. Months later, the couple wanted the dog back and even filed a civil lawsuit asking for $25,000 or the dogs return. The court battle ended in December 2023 when the couple filed a motion to dismiss the case, citing that the dog had been stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said Maricopa police confirmed that the people they found Rags with in Arizona are connected to his original owners in Baldwin County. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Dec. 30As 2024 draws to a close, readers of The New Mexican's business coverage in the Dec. 31 edition will have the chance to learn about two local enterprises headed in different directions as they approach distinct milestones. The first, Beck & Bulow, is a local premium meats supplier that offers wholesale, retail and online sales from its Cerrillos Road storefront. But by February, the company will have moved much of its operations to the 120-acre ranch in Lamy it recently purchased. I stopped by Beck & Bulow headquarters shortly before Christmas to meet with owners John-Paul Bulow and Tony Beck, and hear about their extensive plans for the property. Those include the opening of a renovated, 7,000-square-foot warehouse and a community events space. They also plan to make housing available to their employees through a handful of single-family dwellings and two dormitories, taking a direct approach to battling Santa Fe's well-documented affordable housing crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the afternoon I stopped by, the two owners were throwing a holiday party. But the lively atmosphere apparently did nothing to slow down the brisk sales of the company's ethically sourced beef, wild game and seafood, keeping the store's staff hard at work. On New Year's Eve, another Santa Fe business will be holding its own celebration, but this one is designed to signal the end of an era, rather than mark the opening of a new one. Owner Garrick Beck is closing Natural Stones, his gem and mineral business on Baca Street, after a 30-year run to make time for his other interests, including resuming work on an ambitious forestry project and contributing to what he hopes will be the opening of an off-Broadway play. Beck was in a reflective mood when we discussed the transition last week. But his decision to cease operations on the final day of the year seemed like a natural one, offering a logical point at which to conclude one part of his personal journey and begin another. As we turn the page on 2024, a lot of us might be feeling similarly reflective or just plain eager to get on with things. Regardless of which camp you fall into, here's wishing you a great start to the new year. PANAMA CITY (AP) Panama on Tuesday celebrated the 25th anniversary of the U.S. handover of the Panama Canal, which President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to take back. The commemoration was made more poignant by the death on Sunday of former President Jimmy Carter, who negotiated the 1999 handover deal. On this, such a special day ... a mix of happiness for this 25th anniversary of having the canal in Panamanian hands, and the sadness we feel for the death of former President Jimmy Carter, said Panama's president, Jose Raul Mulino. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremony included a moment of silence for Carter, who reached the handover deal with former Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. Speaking at the main anniversary celebration in Panama City, Mulino said the two men had the vision and nobility to take the road of justice." Meanwhile, Trump is decrying increased fees Panama has imposed to use the waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. He has said if things dont change after he takes office in late January, we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America, in full, quickly and without question. Trump has asserted that a 1977 treaty foolishly gave the canal away. He hasnt said how he might make good on his threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Tuesday's ceremony, Mulino did not refer specifically to Trump's statements. He did, however, try to deflect accusations that China may have too much influence over the waterway. There are no hands involved in the canal other than Panama's, Mulino said. Rest assured, it will be in our hands forever. The deal involved two treaties. One was for the handover. The other, which continues in perpetuity, gives the U.S. the right to act to ensure the canal remains open and secure. It gives the U.S. the right to act if the canals operation is threatened due to military conflict but not to reassert control. Jorge Luis Quijano, who served as the canal's administrator from 2014 to 2019, has said that theres no clause of any kind in the neutrality agreement that allows for the taking back of the canal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres very little wiggle room, absent a second U.S. invasion of Panama, to retake control of the Panama Canal in practical terms, said Benjamin Gedan, director of the Latin America Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington. Traffic on the canal increased 17% between fiscal years 1999 and 2004. Panamas voters approved a 2006 referendum authorizing a major expansion of the canal to accommodate larger, modern cargo ships. The expansion took until 2016 and cost more than $5.2 billion. Shipping prices have increased because of droughts last year affecting the canal locks, forcing Panama to drastically cut shipping traffic and raise usage rates. Though the rains have mostly returned, Panama has said future fee increases might be necessary as it undertakes improvements to accommodate modern shipping needs. Canal administrator Ricaurte Vasquez has said the canal has demonstrated that Panamanians are people who can face challenges including the effects of climate change, world economic cycles and international conflicts. CARTHAGE, Texas (KETK) Texas Governor Greg Abbott appointed former Tatum municipal judge Larry Fields as the new Panola County Criminal District Attorney on Tuesday. Start off a new year by giving back to East Texas women Fields is currently privately practicing attorney and hes previously served as municipal judge for the City of Tatum, as a board member for the Panola County Chamber of Commerce and the Rusk-Panola Child Advocacy Center, as the secretary of the Texas Optometry board and as the president of the Panola County Bar Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I appreciate Governor Abbott and his staff and Senator Hughes for allowing me this opportunity to serve Panola county and I look forward to the challenge, Fields told KETK. Fields got his bachelors degree of applied arts and sciences from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches and his Juris Doctor degree from the South Texas College of Law Houston. According to the State Bar of Texas, Fields practices law in several areas like alternative dispute resolution, business, consumer, family, personal injury litigation, real estate, wills-trusts-probate and mediation. Fields term as Panola County Criminal District Attorney officially starts on Jan. 1, 2025 and ends on Dec. 31 of 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. MILAN Paolo Vitelli, who founded Azimut Yachts in the late 1960s, has died at age 77, the company confirmed Tuesday. The company said it was not ready to release a statement. Azimut, which is known for its luxury yachts coveted by the worlds rich and famous, said the entrepreneur died at his home in the hamlet of Mascognaz, located in the northern Italian region of Aosta. He slipped on ice and fatally hit his head on concrete. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the 1980s, Vitelli acquired Cantieri Benetti, a historic Viareggio-based shipyard and created the Azimut|Benetti Group. Today, Azimut|Benetti Group is ranked as the number-one firm in the world according to length built by Boat International. Vitellis daughter Giovanna has been chairman of the group since March 2023. In October, Azimut|Benetti Group, which is headquartered in Avigliana, Italy, near Turin, said its revenues rose to 1.3 billion euros in the fiscal period between 2023 and 2024, compared to 1.2 billion euros last year, driven by key markets. At the time, its chief executive officer Marco Valle forecast 15 percent growth by the same period of 2025. Azimuts Seadeck 6, designed with Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez. Paolo Vitelli was born in Turin, Italy in 1947 into a family of entrepreneurs. Driven by a passion for boats and yachting, he set up his business, Azimut, at just 21 years old, the company said on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After graduating with a degree in economics and commerce, at the age of 22, he became an importer of boats produced by some of the most prestigious shipyards in Northern Europe. By the mid-1970s, Azimut had launched a series of boats and later expanded the range from 8 to 10 meters to larger models, up to the iconic Azimut Failaka 105 (30.8 meters), which was sold to the Onassis family. More than half of Azimuts fleet is now made up of low-emission yachts that reduce CO2 emissions by between 20 and 30 percent. Seadeck 6 integrates an innovative system that allows both zero-emissions at anchor and cruising with the generator off, further reducing on-board consumption. This system, called Mild Hybrid Zero Emission Hotel Mode, is based on a 42-kWh lithium battery pack and an alternator connected to one of the three engines. Overall the vessel reduces CO2 emissions by 40 percent over a year of average use, both when cruising and at anchor, compared to a traditional flybridge boat of similar dimensions. The company said it has invested 20 years of research and development in sustainable innovation and is working toward meeting the goals set by the International Maritime Organization for the overall industry to reduce CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2030. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. (PARK COUNTY, Colo.) The Park County Sheriffs Office confirmed on Monday, Dec. 30, that Hailey Cole and Johnny Morris, who were identified as people of interest in the ongoing homicide investigation of Tim Huston, are currently in custody in Pearl River County, Mississippi. UPDATED COVERAGE: Man, woman wanted in Colorado captured in Mississippi According to the Park County Sheriffs Office, Morris and Cole are being held by law enforcement on local charges in Pearl River County, including Burglary and Possession of Burglary Tools. Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriffs Office Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriffs Office Tim Huston was discovered dead inside his home in Hartsel, Colorado on Christmas Eve under circumstances that indicated a violent crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Search for suspects continues in Mississippi after Ford pickup found The Sheriffs Office said that the case remains a high priority for the agency and continues to be an active investigation in partnership with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the El Paso County Sheriffs Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. DAMASCUS, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A car bomb exploded in the northern Aleppo town of Tel Rifaat on Tuesday, injuring at least four people, including a child, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Ambulances rushed to the scene amid a heavy security deployment. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Recent reports indicate that the Syrian National Army, a Turkish-backed military group, entered Tel Rifaat on Tuesday as part of an offensive to counter the Kurdish Workers' Party and Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units, both viewed as terrorist organizations by Turkiye. LAMAR COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) The Norfolk Southern Railroad will close part of State Route 13 in Lamar County for railroad crossing maintenance. Mississippi neighbors help each other recover from storms The closure will take place in the northbound lanes of State Route 13 between N. Front Street and Cooper Industries Drive from 7:00 a.m. on Monday, January 6 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 8. According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), detour signage will be in place. Drivers should seek an alternate route and are reminded to be on high alert for roadside workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. The Pasco County Mosquito Control Districts plans for a new $37 million campus have been squashed. The districts leadership, state legislators and others have argued over the $37 million development for more than a year. But when district officials spoke with state delegates in recent weeks, they say they were met with an ultimatum: Continue plans for the new campus and lose their independence. In order to preserve and save the district, we were forced to abandon the new campus project, said Adriane Rogers, the executive director of the Pasco County Mosquito Control District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The districts board designated the property as surplus in a Dec. 10 meeting. Thats two days after legal notices ran in Pasco about proposed bills that would dissolve the district as it is now. When asked who was behind the proposed bills, Pasco County referred a Tampa Bay Times reporter to state Rep. Randy Maggard, R-Dade City. Maggard and his office did not respond to multiple requests for comment, including confirmation on whether he ran the legal ads or was involved in the private conversations with the district. If a state delegate wants to introduce legislation for a local bill, there must be a public notice 30 days prior. Its unclear if the proposed bills are related to the districts push for a new campus. According to a legal notice, one of the local bills would dissolve the districts executive board and special district functions and transfer its assets, debts and responsibilities to the county. Another legal notice was for a bill that would establish three sub-districts for the Mosquito Control District. Members of the executive committee would be elected from those sub-districts and serve four-year terms with a limit of two terms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pascos Mosquito Control District, as it stands now, is funded by a property tax assessment and has a separate budget from the county. It has a three-member elected board. Maggard, who has publicly opposed the campus, has been a part of efforts in recent years to tighten supervision of independent bodies across the state particularly mosquito control districts. Maggard sponsored a 2021 bill, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law, that sets financial accountability standards for independent taxing districts. One of those requirements was that the Florida Legislatures research bureau review all mosquito districts by the end of September 2023. He raised concerns about the cost of Pasco County Mosquito Control Districts proposed campus at a legislative delegation meeting in October 2023. Its about using taxpayers money wisely, Maggard said. I cant imagine what $37 million can build that you dont already have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two of Pascos Mosquito Control District board members were reelected in November on platforms that supported the construction of the new campus. But the campus idea was killed soon after the election following what Rogers said were some very, very challenging discussions with a local delegate. Rogers did not name the state lawmaker but said there had been conversations with multiple members of the local delegation. Rogers said the district will post an open invitation to bid on the 42-acre property, which is located on U.S. 41. The district purchased the property for $2.16 million, and around $1.5 million was put toward the campus for front work, including permitting and design. Weve spent a significant amount of money on the property already, and because of misinformation and this negative perception of it, to have that canceled after the time and energy and money put into it is truly unfortunate, Rogers said. This is not a win for the taxpayer. Rogers said the district was planning to put revenue from the sale of its existing campus toward the development of its new headquarters and had already saved $10 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rogers said the campus would have assisted with critical county services, such as mosquito testing, increased access to areas of Pasco and storm protection for its equipment. But critics pushed back on the facilitys price tag, especially in light of other major purchases Rogers has made since she became executive director in 2020. The district purchased two helicopters for $8 million in 2020 to replace the previous fleet, which was 50 years old. It also built a $185,000 hangar at the districts current headquarters in Odessa to house the new helicopters, according to previous reporting in the Times. The Times also previously reported that the proposed campus would have cost Pasco nearly the same amount of money to build out all of its top-tier priority capital projects that a county consultant had suggested for the next several years, including two $7 million fire stations and improvements on public works, transportation and other facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee Hansen, a former employee who worked with the district for seven years and was the operations director under Rogers before being fired in December 2022, has been vocal about his problems with the districts use of money. He says he believes he was let go for speaking up about his concerns. I believe, if the county took over mosquito control, it would be run and regulated better, Hansen said. Theres no supervision. But Pasco County Mosquito Control District commissioner Michael Cox said its important for mosquito districts to maintain their independence and focus on fighting the spread of mosquito-related diseases. The county has to focus on multiple areas, including parks, libraries and utility systems. We are our own taxing authority, Cox said. If the district were to go away and be turned over to the county, the county would not acquire our taxing ability. Just minutes after a Brightline train sliced a South Florida fire truck in two, simultaneously smashing the front end of the high-speed train, shaken passengers took to social media sharing dazed and confused videos of what just occurred. In a statement Tuesday, Delray Beach Fire Rescue Chief Ronald L. Martin acknowledged the crash as a turning point and a moment from which we will learn and grow. Thats the end of the Brightline, one passenger in the wrecked train could be heard saying in a video posted to X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In several videos, riders of the crashed train stepped over broken glass from the windows with concerned faces. However, apart from a few cracked windows, the interior seemed intact. I was in the car that took the most damage but heres some footage from the collision with a fire truck and the brightline from today pic.twitter.com/3Ce3PWwhA4 Lx12K (@xxi_doesthisx) December 28, 2024 One rider commented their first time using Brightline was on the rescue train sent to pick-up strained passengers. As the rescue train passed, video showed damage was extensive to the exterior a truly wild first brightline experience #delray (photos/videos taken by me from inside the rescue train) pic.twitter.com/Xr3U4DJPid s a m m i (@saammib) December 28, 2024 Did fire truck bypass rail crossing? Around 10:45 a.m., a Brightline train and a Delray Beach Fire Rescue ladder truck collided near East Atlantic Avenue and Railroad Avenue, according to city spokeswoman Gina Carter. Debris from the crash scattered across the tracks and nearby roadways. According to video released by Brightline, it appears the fire truck drove around a safety gate and had its emergency lights on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This crash is a sobering reminder that emergency responders must always balance the urgency inherent in their work with caution, ensuring that the safety of our community remains our guiding principle, Martin said. From the Brightline Safety and Security Team: Railroad safety is a community wide effort. For everyones safety, never drive around crossing gates when they are down. pic.twitter.com/6TSeHHOuyq Brightline (@GoBrightline) December 29, 2024 Three Delray Beach firefighters were taken to the hospital and are in stable condition, according to Carter. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue took 12 Brightline passengers to the hospital. They all had minor injuries. READ MORE: Fire truck appears to drive around safety rail before crash, Brightline says. See video A Brightline train collided with a fire truck at East Atlantic Avenue and Southeast First Avenue in downtown Delray Beach on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 28, 2024. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zach Thrasher, a passenger on the train, spoke with WSVN 7 News and described the violent crash. We felt a hard brake and then an immediate violent impact. I was thrown into the table. There was a lot of momentum, he said. We knew we hit something, we knew we hit something significant. We thought initially it was a car. We had no idea it was a fire truck until a few minutes later. Thrasher also confirmed he saw the railroad safety gate down as well. I know the crossing arms were down. We saw they were still down, you know, after the fact, said Thrasher. A Brightline train collided with a fire truck at East Atlantic Avenue and Southeast First Avenue in downtown Delray Beach on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 28, 2024. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Miami Herald staff writer Milena Malaver contributed to this report. Trump can't dodge damages payment. Donald Trump is still on the hook for a $5 million payment to writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of sexually assaulting and defaming her in a civil suit against the former and future president. In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation and awarded Carroll $5 million in damages. (The jury did not find Trump liable for rape, an allegation Carroll also levied at Trump.) The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit has upheld that judgment. Trump's appeal argued that the lower court should not have allowed testimony by two women other than Carroll who say Trump sexually assaulted them and should not have allowed the jury to hear the Access Hollywood video in which Trump made his now infamous "grab them by the pussy" comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings. Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial," the ruling said. Trump maintains that the alleged 1996 rape in a Bergdorf Goodman department store never happened and that the case is part of a politicized witch hunt against him. "The American People have re-elected President Trump with an overwhelming mandate, and they demand an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system and a swift dismissal of all of the Witch Hunts, including the Democrat-funded Carroll Hoax, which will continue to be appealed," Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, said in a statement yesterday. Carroll was also awarded $83 million in a separate defamation case, this one revolving around comments Trump made about Carroll when he was president. Trump is also appealing that case. Biden's last-minute Ukraine cash surge. The Biden administration "is sending nearly $2.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, as the Biden administration continues to rush military aid to Kyiv in the weeks before President-elect Donald J. Trump takes office," The New York Times reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've directed my administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible, including drawing down older U.S. equipment for Ukraine, rapidly delivering it to the battlefield and then revitalizing the U.S. defense industrial base to modernize and replenish our stockpiles with new weapons," President Joe Biden said in a Monday statement. This comes in addition to the $3.4 billion in budget aid to Ukraine that the Treasury Department has just released. Those billions mark "the final disbursement of funds appropriated under the bipartisan Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024." Meanwhile, Trump is trying to end the war between Ukraine and Russiawhich has now been going on for almost three yearsthrough his purported powers of negotiation. It's not going well. While Russia has yet to receive any official proposals from Trump, "we are not happy, of course, with the proposals made by members of the Trump team to postpone Ukraine's admission to NATO for 20 years and to station British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in response to leaks of Trump's alleged proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Free the nipple: A federal judge has blocked Tennessee's Protect Tennessee Minors Act from going into effect, calling the measure unconstitutional. The law, which was supposed to take effect tomorrow, would have required age verification for adult websites. "The First Amendment is not shy in its protective sweep," wrote Judge Sheryl H. Lipman in an order granting a request for a preliminary injunction against the law. "To be sure, freedom of speech is not absolute. But the door preventing the state from intruding into this area 'must be kept tightly closed and opened only the slightest crack necessary' to promote state interests," wrote Lipman. "Based on the record at this stage, it appears that Tennessee has wedged its foot in the door farther than the Constitution will likely tolerate." "The Protect Tennessee Minors Act stands in a graveyard full of similar content-based restrictions at the state and federal level that livedand diedbefore it," Lipman noted. Many of those proposed restrictions have been challenged by the Free Speech Coalition, an adult-industry trade group that brought this lawsuit. "We applaud the Court's decision," said Free Speech Coalition Executive Director Alison Boden in a statement. "This is a deeply flawed law that put website operators at risk of criminal prosecution for something a [sic] trivial as a mention of the human nipple." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky man killed by cop who accidentally showed up at his house. A 63-year-old man was killed in Kentucky when police serving a warrant to someone else accidentally went to his house instead. Officers with the London City Police in Laurel County, Kentucky, "mistakenly went to the wrong address while attempting to serve a search warrant," reports Local 12 Cincinnati. One of them ended up killing Douglas Harless, a resident of the house they mistakenly showed up at. As usual with such situationsand how insane and terrible that there is a "usual" with such situationsthe police seem to be trying to absolve themselves of wrongdoing by claiming that Harless pointed a gun at them. But pointing a gun at people who appear to be breaking into your house isn't exactly an unreasonable response. Kentucky State Police are investigating and have not yet released body cam footage from the shooting. Scenes from Ohio: The Columbus Dispatch remembers Ohio's Playboy Club, which at the time of its 1982 opening was one of eight Playboy Clubs in the country. Then-Coumbus Mayor Tom Moody reportedly said, in 1983, that "the development of the Playboy Club in Columbus is good for this city. I expect to use my honorary key; I expect to take my wife there." It's hard to imagine a politician daring to say something like that today! Of course, not everyone was so welcoming: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement the Columbus Playboy Club did meet with opposition from others who cited family values and anti-pornography campaigns as reasons to stop the club from opening. Some feminist groups organized against the club as well. In January 1983, feminist activists threw plastic bags full of red paint against the building and posted a 3-foot sign declaring that the Playboy Foundation "offers women to the public as products not as humans." Despite the pushback, others beyond Mayor Moody were excited for the club to open. National Bunny Director Harriet Bassler reported receiving more than 3,000 applications from Columbus-area women hopeful to don the iconic satin suit, bunny ears and cotton tail. Ultimately, 30 women made the cut to become the club's Bunnies. Quick Hits Yikes: Letting an inebriated customer go back to their hotel room could apparently be grounds for negligent homicide charges in Argentina. Staff at Buenos Aires' Casa Sur Palermo Hotel who let One Direction's Liam Payne go back to his hotel room while inebriated by the "consumption of various substances" are being criminally charged after Payne fell from his hotel room balcony and died. Yikes again: The Biden administration's "$42 billion expansion of broadband internet service has yet to connect a single household," reports Politico. You've heard of the manosphere and incels. But are you acquainted with "dark feminine" influencers? The Atlantic tackles the left's conundrum on the question of trans women in female sports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are we in for a QAnon resurgence? "Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) took initial steps to sue video sharing app TikTok Inc., hiring Cooper & Kirk PLLC to represent the state, with the firm's partners billing $3,780 per hour if they win," reports Bloomberg Law. The post Pay Up, Trump appeared first on Reason.com. Dec. 30The last few weeks of the year are often a time for reflection. This year has been an exciting one of growth and business development within this city of Palestine and it is largely thanks to Palestine Economic Development Corporation. PEDC is a Type B Texas economic development corporation established under the Development Corporation Act of 1979. This department, within the city of Palestine, oversees economic development, business recruitment, retention and expansion. The PEDC Board, established by state law and appointed by the mayor and city council, provides governance and policy direction for the economic development of Palestine. "Our mission is to have a positive impact on the community," said Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director for PEDC. "We really feel like that impact is coming to the surface more than ever and what's truly exciting is seeing the community buying in and benefiting as stakeholders of our broader strategic plan. At its core, economic development is really a larger, team effort with our friends and neighbors." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Palestine Economic Development Corporation manages several programs throughout the year to support investment in the region. The staff, board of directors, and community partners bring in new businesses while helping local entrepreneurs and leaders grow. Here are a few highlights from 2024 that were made possible by PEDC's partners, city leaders, the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce, business owners and countless others who are proud to call Palestine home. New businesses PEDC works with franchise owners and large companies to bring new businesses to the region. These stores and restaurants create jobs and improve the quality of life for residents. Here are a few businesses that opened in 2024: LS Tractor Aldi Marshalls Ross 7 Brew Coffee Ulta Beauty Smoothie King "PEDC loves local business owners and is excited that Palestine is receiving national attention from major brands," Trahan said. "This is a desirable and profitable place to be. The PEDC would like to extend a special acknowledgment to LS Tractor, Texas Futura and Callizo Aromas, businesses we were proud to directly assist in establishing their presence here in Palestine. The staff at PEDC is happy to help any business move to the region and establish its headquarters in Palestine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Businesses under construction This year was a great year for new businesses to open in Palestine, and there's no indication that this momentum will slow in 2025, Trahan said. There are several new businesses currently under construction in the region, many of which will be significant job creators when they open. A few notable companies we are looking forward to celebrating in 2025 include: CHRISTUS Emergency Hospital Campus Aspen Dental Urgent Care Parachute Plasma Donation Center Thorough Foods Company "Our population is growing and the workforce is changing," Trahan said. "New residents are attracted to the high quality of life in Palestine and they're bringing their skills and experience with them, and residents have more opportunities than ever to learn new skills and trades in order to land their dream jobs. Skilled labor is an appealing factor to any business looking to expand." PEDC continues to invest in the community Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "External investment is exciting, but one of PEDC's core tenets is to help existing local businesses grow," Trahan said. "One key resource to do this is our grant programs, which support downtown revitalization and community development." For Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024, PEDC awarded $250,000 to various downtown businesses and organizations for improvements. A few businesses that benefitted include: Dogwood Embroidery Home Grill Steakhouse Palestine Theatre The Historic Palestine Event Center Thorough Foods Company For FY24-25, Trahan said PEDC has already committed to distribute $180,000 in grants. Keep an eye out for improvements at these local businesses: Kim's Convenience Stores Corporate Office Pint and Barrel Redlands Hotel Warren's Barber Shop Palestine Resource Center "PEDC can't wait to showcase these businesses and the improvements they make, Trahan said. "Not only do these upgrades and renovations make the customer experience more enjoyable, but they also make Palestine more appealing to visitors and potential businesses that decide to move here." Additionally, the Community Development Grant contributed to improving the Upper Lake Trail and supported the Parks Department in funding the new concrete walking path at Reagan Park. These improvements directly support the quality of life of residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PEDC supports entrepreneurs through education Small business owners and entrepreneurs need diverse skill sets to succeed. Along with industry and operational knowledge, they have to develop marketing skills, accounting know-how, and even a basic legal foundation to run their organizations. PEDC supports the continued education of local business owners through free and affordable seminars hosted year-round. A few of the classes held this year included: Social Media Marketing Business Ready Set Go How the SBA Can Help You Start & Grow Your Business Empowering Women Entrepreneurs SBA Federal HUBZone and TXDOT Overview Streamline Your Strategy: Creating Engaging Content in Minutes with AI "PEDC often promotes these seminars ahead of time to help entrepreneurs decide if the training opportunity is a good fit.," Trahan said. "Along with these educational seminars, PEDC also held a lender's roundtable with local banks to discuss funding for small businesses and also sponsored the Express Management Essentials training program. No matter how long you have been in business, there is always something to learn." PEDC made strong through board involvement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Trahan, PEDC is supported and led by a diverse board consisting of active community members and business leaders. "The PEDC would like to offer a special thank you to Linda Dickens, an outgoing board member who has brought her vital perspective as a longtime downtown business owner to the board for many years. We appreciate your service and all of your contributions," Trahan said. "Ernie Williams is stepping in as our newest board member. Ernie is a local businessman who owns and operates a local insurance agency and is an active philanthropist in the Palestine and Anderson County communities. We can't wait to work alongside you in 2025." Get involved with PEDC in 2025 "This year-end review highlights just how involved PEDC is with the local business community," Trahan said. "Potential employers, existing businesses, and new entrepreneurs all receive support from this team. Whether you run a national chain that is considering an expansion to the area or want to turn your home business into a storefront, the PEDC team is here to support you. "Follow PEDC into 2025 and beyond. Stay up to date with classes, networking opportunities, and grant windows that can help you succeed. As a community, the City of Palestine can keep growing and make this part of Texas a great place to live." EL CAJON, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) An 11-year-old boy from El Cajon died over the weekend after being struck by a car, according to a news release by California Highway Patrol. CHP said on the morning of Saturday, Dec. 21, around 8:41 a.m., the boy entered the roadway of North First Street from an easterly direction. 11-year-old taken off life support after being hit by car in El Cajon At the same time, a 74-year-old man from Lakeside, Calif. was driving a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt northbound on North First Street, north of Sumner Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to authorities, the boy attempted to avoid a dog while he entered the street and was struck by the Chevrolet. The boy suffered major injuries and was taken to Rady Childrens Hospital, CHP said in the release. He was placed on life support, but was taken off Sunday and succumbed to his injuries, authorities confirmed. This is an ongoing investigation. Drugs and/or alcohol were not a factor in the crash, according to CHP. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) A pedestrian was killed after being hit by a car in Ogden on Monday afternoon, according to officials. The Ogden Police Department said in a press release that the incident happened around 4 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 30. The collision between the vehicle and pedestrian happened near the intersection of 33rd Street and Wall Avenue in Ogden, police said. Preliminary investigation indicates that the pedestrian was using a designated crosswalk when he was struck by the vehicle, however, the initial investigation indicates that the crosswalk signals were not being used properly, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspect in deadly Ogden DUI crash fled from detox treatment: Documents The driver initially left the scene but was stopped by officers soon after. Ogden police said the driver is cooperating with the investigation. Police did not release the identity of the pedestrian, as family members have not yet been notified. The Weber-Morgan CRASH Team is investigating the incident. Possible witnesses have been asked to contact the Ogden Police Traffic Bureau at 801-395-8221. There is no further information at this time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. PENSACOLA, Fla. (WKRG) Pensacola police are ramping up efforts to prevent drunk driving during New Years Eve celebrations as part of a national initiative. The police department is deploying additional officers to patrol in marked and unmarked vehicles, aiming to reduce the risk of impaired driving crashes during one of the most dangerous nights of the year. Mobile Police to ramp up New Years security after a violent past 2 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, we have extra patrols, extra officers both in marked cars and unmarked cars looking for impaired driving like we do every year, Pensacola Police Public Information Officer Mike Wood said. The holiday season is a peak time for drunk driving incidents. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 300 people die in drunk driving crashes annually in the U.S. during the week between Christmas and New Years. Locally, Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties have seen similar trends in holiday-related crashes, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owner finally reunited with deaf dog stolen from Silverhill home, found over 1,600 miles away Wood noted the community plays a significant role in helping police identify impaired drivers. The key thing is, we have thousands of eyes out there watching because everybody has a cell phone now, Wood said. And when they see somebody drifting in their lane or sitting at a green light, they will call us and stay with that vehicle until we get there. Residents are encouraged to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 911. Signs of impaired driving include swerving, inconsistent speeds and failing to respond to traffic signals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pensacola police are also emphasizing the financial and legal consequences of driving under the influence. They need to find who did this: Officials continue search for person who threw puppies off Dog River Bridge An Uber or Lyft or a cab is about 25 or 30 bucks, might be a little bit more because of the supply and demand that night, Wood said. But its still a lot better than the $10,000 its going to cost after attorneys fees and court costs if you get arrested. In addition to the risk of fines, court costs, and attorney fees, a DUI arrest can lead to jail time, a suspended license, and a lasting impact on ones personal and professional life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve seen so many families destroyed by one persons bad decision, Wood said. You dont want to start the New Year with regrets or worse. Local law enforcement agencies are urging residents to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, or taking public transportation. The Florida Department of Transportation is also promoting its Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs through Jan. 1, to further discourage impaired driving. Atlanta man, woman arrested on fraud, drug charges in Santa Rosa County: sheriffs office FDOT statistics show alcohol-related crashes spiked across Northwest Florida during the 2023 New Year period. This year, police hope increased public awareness and proactive measures will help prevent similar incidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre hosting a party, make sure you have non-alcoholic options for guests who are driving or arrange for them to get home safely, Wood said. Pensacola police said their goal is not only to make arrests but to prevent tragedies. We want everyone to start the new year off safely, Wood said. Lets make this a celebration, not a statistic. Escambia County provides update on nitrocellulose fire at Pall Membrane Technologies The departments efforts align with the broader national push to reduce drunk driving fatalities, which claimed more than 11,000 lives nationwide in 2022. For those in need of transportation options, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are preparing for higher demand on New Years Eve, and local taxi services are also on standby. Pensacola police remind residents that the cost of a ride home pales in comparison to the consequences of impaired driving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement agencies across Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties are committed to ensuring a safer holiday season. By working together, police and the community hope to save lives and make the roads safer for everyone. If you see a suspected drunk driver, call 911 immediately. For more tips on safe holiday driving, visit NHTSAs website or contact Pensacola Police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Shows and content featuring MrBeast, Kelly Clarkson, and Guy Fieri were approved to receive production support from the Department of Defense last year, according to documents obtained by Rolling Stone. The charm offensive comes at a time when military recruitment has hit historic lows, and both defense officials and members of Congress are seeking new ways to recruit young people into the armed services. According to a Government Accountability Office report last month, Generation Z or zoomers have seen more than a 10 percent decline in military favorability, with only 35 percent holding favorable views in 2021, down from 46 percent in 2016. The military services recognize that young people communicate or receive information increasingly through digital media, the report says. According to the Armys advertising agency, younger generations view the real world through social media discussions, videos, and memes, which influences their values and beliefs. Following this logic, in 2022, the Armys 4th Psychological Operations Group went viral for a Christopher Nolan-inspired recruitment video depicting Psyop soldiers waging war on a digital battlefield, replete with social media influence campaigns. Meanwhile, enlisted E-girls have racked up millions of views on pro-military social media posts that may or may not be directly overseen by Pentagon components. Ironically, the U.S. military cannot use the most popular Gen Z social media app, TikTok, due to federal prohibitions linked to its Chinese inventors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But zoomer media isnt the only thing getting approved for Pentagon funding. According to a list obtained through a public records request, Guys All-American Road Trip, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Downeys Dream Cars, The Price Is Right, Americas Got Talent, and The Jennifer Hudson Show all received Pentagon support last year under Production Assistance Agreements, or PAAs. The Pentagon also approved funding for content involving YouTube star Jimmy Donaldson, a.k.a. MrBeast, who was slated to lead a humanitarian effort in Puerto Rico. We did complete a PAA for the Social Influencer Mr. Beast, but ultimately did not support the production as he did not go to Puerto Rico for the Hurricane relief, so that PAA is cancelled, a Pentagon official wrote in an email obtained by Rolling Stone. The Pentagon document underscores the U.S. governments interest in working alongside influencers and YouTubers, in addition to its ongoing failure to build out a social media presence strong enough to correct the militarys recruiting crisis. According to Department of Defense protocols, production assistance agreements (PAAs) are approved when assistance would be in the best interest of the nation by presenting a reasonably realistic depiction of the military services and the DoD, including service members, civilian personnel, events, missions, assets, and policies; when the media Is informational and considered likely to contribute to public understanding of the military services and the DoD; or, most critically, when it may benefit military service recruiting and retention programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the Pentagons production assistance agreements, in exchange for military personnel, vehicles, technology, and expert advice for use in film and TV, the U.S. military earns the right to influence how it is portrayed by editing scripts, altering narratives, and trying to paint the armed forces in the best possible light. The Pentagons interest in working alongside the likes of Guy Fieri and MrBeast draws on a long history of Hollywood producers working hand in hand with the Department of Defense. The most recognizable instance is the 1986 classic Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise. Recruitment centers were set up at movie theaters where the film premiered, and pilot applications jumped by 500 percent that year. In exchange for the recruitment boost, the producers of Top Gun received access to military equipment like fighter jets, military bases, and the USS Enterprise, a 95,000 ton aircraft carrier. As reporter David L. Robb wrote of the exchange, Millions of dollars can be shaved off a films budget if the military agrees to lend its equipment and assistance. And all a producer has to do to get that assistance is submit five copies of the script to the Pentagon for approval; make whatever script changes the Pentagon suggests; film the script exactly as approved by the Pentagon; and prescreen the finished product for Pentagon officials before its shown to the public. The quid pro quo between Hollywood and the Pentagon doesnt always go according to plan. In 1996, after securing a PAA for the blockbuster Independence Day, the military abruptly pulled out of the agreement when the films director refused to excise mention of the secretive military base Area 51 from the film script. According to director Roland Emmerich, The United States military was going to support this and supply us with a lot of costumes and airplanes and stuff. Their one demand was that we remove Area 51 from the film, and we didnt want to do that. So they withdrew their support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As blockbuster cinema fails to drive recruitment in the present day, the 2023 PAAs supporting daytime television personalities popular in the early 2000s suggest that, despite a tepid curiosity in social media, the Pentagon is still struggling to keep up with the times. In a symbolic foreshadowing of the Pentagons efforts, a 2022 video by MrBeast called I got hunted by the military depicts three veteran military guys landing in a helicopter and setting off on a chase to hunt down MrBeast before the clock strikes midnight. Decoy cars, a rented-out museum, and a large fake rock prove nearly insurmountable to the commando squadron in hot pursuit. While the vets ultimately find MrBeast in the museum under the aforementioned rock at the eleventh hour, the vast effort needed to locate and coax out a 24-year-old YouTuber does not bode well for the most powerful army in the world as it tries to swell its sagging ranks. The Pentagons failure to get MrBeast to Puerto Rico last year even after it approved funding for the project probably isnt a great sign, either. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a New Year message through China Media Group and the internet Tuesday evening in Beijing to ring in 2025. (Xinhua/Ju Peng) BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on the nation to remain confident in the coming year, saying the world's second-largest economy can overcome challenges and pressure through hard work. Xi made the remarks in his New Year message for 2025 delivered through China Media Group and the internet. Set to fully complete its 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, China will implement more proactive and effective policies, prioritize high-quality development, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development, Xi said. He said the Chinese economy "now faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones." "But we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident," Xi said. The Chinese president also vowed to continue the country's reform drive, mentioning a Party plenum held in July that adopted a massive reform master plan. The document outlined key reform tasks for the next five years and proposed over 300 major reform initiatives. "We will march forward in great strides to advance reform and opening up as the trend of our times. We will surely embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization in the course of reform and opening up," he said. An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 20, 2024 shows a view of the Yangluo Port in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu) UPWARD TRAJECTORY Reviewing China's footprint in 2024, Xi said the economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory, with the national GDP expected to pass the mark of 130 trillion yuan (about 18.08 trillion U.S. dollars) and the country's grain output surpassing 700 million tonnes. He noted that China has fostered new quality productive forces, and new business sectors, forms and models have kept emerging. For the first time, China has produced more than 10 million new energy vehicles in a year, and breakthroughs have been made in fields including integrated circuit, artificial intelligence and quantum communications. Xi also highlighted government measures introduced to improve people's livelihoods, including raising the basic pension, lowering mortgage rates, and expanding a scheme for cross-province direct settlement of medical bills that has made it easier for people to seek medical treatment across the country. For the coming year, Xi said, "We should work together to steadily improve social undertakings and governance, build a harmonious and inclusive atmosphere, and settle real issues, big or small, for our people. We must bring more smiles to our people and greater warmth to their hearts." Participants of a cross-Strait journalism camp for university students visit Inner Mongolia Museum in Hohhot, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Aug. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Lian Zhen) Xi also said that no one can ever stop China's reunification, a trend of the times. "We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us," he said. China will unswervingly implement the policy of "one country, two systems" to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Macao, he said. An African journalist interacts with a robot at the media center for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 3, 2024. (Xinhua/Li He) MAINTAINING WORLD PEACE, STABILITY In a world of both transformation and turbulence, China, as a responsible major country, is actively promoting global governance reform and deepening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, Xi said. Highlighting China's advances in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and success in hosting the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, as well as its participation in bilateral and multilateral forums, Xi said the country has "contributed greatly to the maintenance of world peace and stability." "China will work with all countries to promote friendship and cooperation, enhance mutual learning among different cultures, and build a community with a shared future for mankind. We must jointly create a better future for the world," he said. Creator of PolitiFact and journalist Bill Adair joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss President Jimmy Carter's legacy of honesty in the White House and how to prioritize that going forward in our politics as the Republican party shirks their responsibility to the truth. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A Peoria man was sentenced Monday to 20 years in prison for twice possessing a firearm in violation of Illinois law. Markes M. Wilson, 30, had previously pleaded guilty in Peoria County Circuit Court to two counts of possession of a weapon by a felon in connection with incidents in 2021 and 2023. He got eight years on the first charge and 12 years on the second one. They are to be served one after another, and he is eligible for day-for-day good-time credit, meaning that with credit for about two years already served, he could get out of prison in about eight years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elmwood man has been indicted for allegedly discharging a gun in his backyard The 2023 charge stems from an incident that involved a June 18, 2023, fatal shooting of a 15-year-old Peoria teen, Emarion L. Carpenter. Peoria police were called to the 800 block of West McBean Street at about 12:36 a.m. after an alert from the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system indicated that 12 rounds had been fired. Shortly after, another alert came for 12 rounds in the 300 block of South Merriman Street and four rounds in the 1300 block of Southwest Phoenix Drive. All those streets are within a few blocks of each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers found a boy at the scene with a gunshot wound to his hand. He was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Carpenter was found in the 1200 block of Saint Martin Drive. He had been shot several times and was unresponsive. He died at the scene. Wilson was never charged with shooting Carpenter. A more serious count of aggravated discharge of a firearm was dropped as part of his plea agreement last month with Peoria County prosecutors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A Peoria woman was named to fill a vacancy within Peoria Countys judicial circuit. The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts, which oversees judges and the legal system within the state, said on Tuesday that Caryn Kamp was picked to be an associate judge within the 10th Judicial Circuit which covers Peoria, Tazewell, Putnam, Stark and Marshall counties. With the new year, comes the new judicial assignments for the 10th Circuit Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was picked by a majority of the circuit judges already sitting in the 10th. Caryn Kamp will be an excellent addition to the judiciary in the Tenth Circuit. On behalf of all the judges in the Tenth Circuit, we welcome her and look forward to working with her, said Chief Circuit Judge Katherine Gorman. She fills a vacancy created when Sean Donahue, then associate judge, was elected to be a circuit judge last month. Kamp will be assigned to courtroom 201 at the Peoria County Courthouse, handling cases related to orders of protection, small claims and child support. The 10th has ten circuit judges are elected to serve six-year terms, while eleven associate judges are selected by the circuit judges to serve four-year terms. Associate judges are then considered for reappointment every four years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kamp graduated from the University of Missouri in Columbia in 2003 and then from law school at Chicago Kent College of Law in 2006. She has been in private practice for years and has also long been part of the countys public defender office. Her official swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m., Jan. 21 in courtroom 210 of the Peoria County Courthouse. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. A farm on former Today show host Matt Lauers New Zealand property is being accused of abusing sheep by the activist group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Lauer, who was ousted by NBC in 2017 following accusations of sexual harassment and rape, leased out a portion of his 16,000-acre property to an operation called Hunter Valley Farming. An undercover investigation by PETA, first reported by the New York Post, reportedly found that the sheep at Hunter Valley were getting struck during the shearing process to collect wool, with some even needing stitches which they received with no pain medication. Their report also found that the sheep were sometimes lifted off the ground and then pinned hard onto the floor before being shoved into a shoot to take them back to their pen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matt Lauers New Zealand getaway is hell for scared sheep who are flung about, pinned down and cut up, PETA president Ingrid Newkirk told The New York Post . PETA wants Lauer to wash his hands of the bloody wool business. The Post adds that a spokesperson for Lauer said he had absolutely no knowledge of any alleged problems at his property, only learning of it when the outlet reached out for comment. Lauer is notably not involved with the farms operations. Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, Matt Lauer, Hoda Kotb and Carson Daly on Monday, September 5, 2017. / Nathan Congleton/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images [Lauer] was deeply disturbed and saddened to hear of what allegedly has happened, and immediately launched his own investigation of his tenants operations, which is currently underway, his representative told the Post, who also added that PETA never contacted him. When all the facts are known, he will take immediate and appropriate actions. As for PETA, a spokesperson for the organization clarified to The Post that they didnt contact Lauer about their investigation because when we notify companies and individuals implicated in our investigations, their usual reaction is to deny, deflect, and downplay the cruelty uncovered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Publicly releasing undercover investigations before notifying implicated parties, like Mr. Lauer, holds them responsible and makes it impossible for them to ignore the cruelty they have the power to stop, they added, referencing a video the NGO published Monday that captured instances of the alleged abuse. Hunter Valley Farming is operated by Digby Cochrane and his wife, Hannah, who said theyve been contacted by Lauer to discuss PETAs allegations. At shearing time we employ independent shearing contractors, to shear the sheep, who work in accordance with New Zealand industry accepted guidelines and practices, the Cochranes said in a statement to The Post. Lauer purchased the New Zealand property in 2017 for more than $9 million. That same year, he was fired from the Today show after being accused by several women of sexual abuse. The disgraced host was never charged and denied all allegations. A Phoenix man was sentenced to 10 years in prison after dragging a border patrol agent from the side of his car during a 2023 stop near Sonoita, about 30 miles north of the U.S.-Mexican border. Michael Leroy Witt, 56, was found guilty by a jury in July 2024 of assault of a federal officer, conspiracy to transport undocumented migrants and transportation of undocumented migrants. He was sentenced Dec. 17 in U.S. District Court to 120 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release post imprisonment by Judge John C. Hinderaker. Federal public defenders representing Witt filed an appeal Dec. 19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Border Patrol agent Thomas Gonzales pulled Witt over in February 2023 on suspicion of transporting undocumented migrants, court records show. Gonzales said the dark tint on Witt's black Chevrolet Sonic back window, combined with Witt's slow speed of 45 mph in a 65-mph area and swerving between lanes caught his attention. After running the license plate in registration records, Gonzales found "the vehicle also had an alert placed on it...for being used to transport non-citizens," according to the complaint. Gonzales then tried to pull Witt over, but Witt only slowed down and waved out his window, signaling Gonzales to pass him. Gonzales used his loudspeaker to order Witt to pull over, and Witt complied, the complaint says. When Gonzales walked up to Witt's car, he saw "two lumps under blankets in the back seat floorboard." Gonzales asked Witt to roll down his window, but Witt said he couldn't and "was fidgeting in his seat." Gonzales asked Witt to turn the car off, but Witt refused, court documents say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzales "attempted to detain Witt by opening (his car) door," but "Witt resisted by pulling his hands away." Witt "placed the vehicle in drive and accelerated away onto oncoming traffic while (Gonzales) was trapped in the window / door," the complaint says. Gonzales "was able to deliver kinetic strikes to Witt's head, reach in and turn the ignition off and safely steer the vehicle to the north side shoulder." Witt was then placed under arrest, the complaint says. There were two people without legal status from Mexico in Witt's backseat Anthony Juarez-Francisco and Nelson Gabriel Olivera-Antonio. Court documents say Juarez-Francisco planned to pay Witt 250,000 Mexican pesos to be smuggled into the U.S. (about $12,000 U.S. dollars), and Olivera-Antonio planned to pay 220,000 Mexican pesos (about $10,600). Witt's attorney Angeles Ellis argued Witt did not willfully or intentionally desire to assault the Border Patrol agent and that Witt made no money from the smuggling. She said he didn't know it was Border Patrol when Gonzales initially sought to pull Witt over, but that once he realized, he complied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Two things can be true at once. Mr. Witt can be responsible for having committed the offense of transporting immigrants. That does not automatically translate into being responsible for hurting an agent (or) putting anybody's life in jeopardy," Ellis said. She pointed to a lack of evidence, saying the jury was never shown Gonzales' uniform. "Where are the boots? Where are the pants?...You saw the image of his uniform. It looked pristine, pristine. What do you think would happen to a set of pants being dragged at 50 miles an hour through the pavement, through the direct, through the gravel?...They would be very scuffed...And they didn't show you that. Lack of evidence," Ellis said at trial. The photo of the agent's injuries "looked more like a rash," Ellis said. She added that Gonzales didn't go to the emergency room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assistant U.S. attorneys Jennifer H. Berman and Ryan P. DeJoe, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. Taylor Seely covers Phoenix for The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com. Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com or by phone at 480-476-6116. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Judge sentences Phoenix man accused of assault on Border Patrol agent A 26-year-old man died after a shooting near Ahwatukee, according to Phoenix police. Phoenix officers found Khamari Hodges dead with at least one gunshot wound Thursday near Guadalupe Road and Interstate 10. Officers also found a woman with injuries unrelated to gunshot wounds. She was taken to a hospital for treatment. Police received a call about several gunshots being fired in the area around 4 p.m. in the area north of the Ahwatukee Foothills neighborhood. No suspects have been identified, and the investigation remains ongoing, police said. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ahwatukee shooting leaves man, 26, dead, woman injured ALTOONA, Pa. Jubilee 2025 is to be a year of hope within the Roman Catholic Church. Faithful all across the world have already started the special period of personal reflection and spiritual growth. Pope Francis has declared a Pilgrims of Hope theme for the year that is, in his words, to be marked by the hope that does not fade, our hope in God. PHOTO GALLERY | Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown Jubilee 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, which encompasses 87 parishes in eight counties, held its Jubilee kickoff Mass Sunday at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona. Bishop Mark Bartchak described the Jubilee as a time to focus on what binds us tougher, rather than what separates us. During this Jubilee of hope, our holy father invites us to search for that hope, to find hope, to rediscover hope again or maybe for the first time, and especially to share hope with one another, especially with those who have forgotten, for those who have never experienced hope in their lives, Bartchak said during his homily. Jubilee 2025 Opening procession of the Jubilee 2025 mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jubilees, which the church began holding in 1300, take place only every 25 years. When you get to my age, 73, its just really special because I dont expect to see another one, Barbara Bundy, an Altoona resident who attends St. John the Evangelist Church, said before the Mass. Its a real celebration for our church as a whole, throughout the world. Everyone is celebrating the Jubilee year. Bundy added: Its just really a special time of the church coming together as a worldwide church to celebrate together and to hope in Christ, to hope for the future and all the people of the church, the many that have fallen away from the church that they come back and join us on our pilgrimage to the father. Jubilee 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attendees at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstowns Jubilee 2025 mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. The Altoona-Johnstown Diocese has events planned throughout the year. More than 200 people have already contributed artworks, photos or poems to the dioceses Expressions of Hope project. Thirteen parishes, including St. John Gualbert Cathedral in downtown Johnstown, the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Loretto, Our Lady of the Alleghenies in Lilly, Our Lady Queen of Angels in Central City, St. Joseph Mission Church in Carrolltown and Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Johnstown, have been identified as Holy Sites for the Jubilee year. The diocese has created passports that pilgrims can get stamped at each location. Jubilee 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Priests from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown march in the opening procession of the Jubilee 2025 mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. Westminster Cathedral Choir of Boys and Men from London is scheduled to perform April 3 at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, and an ecumenical choral concert is set to take place Oct. 5 at St. John Gualbert Cathedral. An outdoor Mass with speakers highlighting missionary outreach will occur June 29 at Our Lady of the Alleghenies Shrine in Loretto. Bartchak plans to lead a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., Oct. 17. For Catholics all over our diocese, take advantage of this year, said Tony DeGol, the dioceses secretary for communications. Its an opportunity to grow closer to Christ in faith. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) What was once a parking lot in the heart of downtown Fayetteville is now a park. The park is called the Upper Ramble and it sits on the corner of Center and Dickson streets, near local staples like the Walton Arts Center and Fayetteville Public Library. The new space also connects to the already existing Lower Ramble, which opened in September 2022. The city held an opening ceremony on Dec. 30 to celebrate the opening of the Upper Ramble. (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) (Courtesy: City of Fayetteville) Peter Nierengarten, the citys environmental director, said on Monday that the parks completion will help to make Fayetteville more green. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hilton hotel planned on former train bank site in Fayetteville We removed a three-acre surface parking lot. It was an asphalt parking lot and so by getting rid of that and planting trees and having green space, itll add a much beneficial cooling element to downtown on hot summer days, Nierengarten said. Then, when it rains, water will infiltrate in this space rather than running off quickly and causing downstream flooding. Nierengarten along with Mayor Lioneld Jordan; Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Director Alison Jumper; and Downtown Fayetteville Coalition Executive Director Kelly Rich spoke at the ceremony. The city previously said its called The Ramble because of a 2021 naming campaign where the public submitted ideas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Planned 16-story hotel in Rogers will not be built The Ramble is described by the city as a full embrace of the journey not in a hurry to get from point A to point B but rather, open to possibility. The concept falls nicely in sync with the cadence of a walk or a bike ride, spontaneous conversation, outdoor installations and gathering spaces. Additionally, The Ramble is a nod to Arkansas-born musician and actor Levon Helm. A former member of The Band, Helm hosted Midnight Ramble sessions in a barn on his property in Woodstock, New York, until he passed in 2012, the city said. Construction on the Upper Ramble began last year and now completes a more than $40 million project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on Fayetteville bond projects, visit the City of Fayetteville website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. On one side, the fiercely loyal supporters who love Donald Trump the most. On the other side, the fiercely loyal supporters who love Trump the most. Yes, even before he has been sworn in for the second time, the world around Trump has been plunged into chaos by a bitter and at times pretty incomprehensible MAGA civil war. Like all civil wars, the casus belli might seem obscure to outsiders. In this case, a group of people who had united on build the wall are split on whether to keep a legal immigration visa scheme called H1B which allows 65,000 new entries a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike a regular civil war, this ones outcome will be decided by one person alone: Trump himselfmaking it a pitched battle like a scene in front of the emperor in Gladiator 2. Early on Tuesday one of the chief civil warriors, First Buddy Elon Musk, changed his X profile name to Kekius Maximus, apparently inspired by the similarity. Ready for an epic battle? Heres your indispensable guide to whos fighting it out in the Circus MAGA-mus. ON ONE SIDE: THE SILICON VALLEY SWORDSMEN The Truthbomber: Vivek Ramaswamy Vivek Ramaswamy, Co-Chair of the newly announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), arrives on Capitol Hill earlier this month. / Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images Ramaswamy is a former biotech CEO who ran against Trump in the Republican primary earlier this year. After dropping out of the race and endorsing the president-elect last January, Ramaswamy was named as one of two leaders of the Department of Government Efficiency, alongside Musk. Ramaswamy sided with his DOGE counterpart last week, penning a long post on X bashing American culture for not producing enough engineers to staff American tech companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A culture that celebrates the prom queen over the math olympiad champ, or the jock over the valedictorian, will not produce the best engineers, he wrote. The Lightning Rod: Sriram Krishnan Krishnan, a veteran of several major tech companies including Microsoft and Facebook, is an outgoing partner at the Silicon Valley venture capital firm Andreesen Horowitz. Andreesen Horowitz partner Sriram Krishnan speaks during a developers conference in 2014. / San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst N / Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images On Dec. 22, Trump posted a mundane announcement naming Krishnan as a senior policy adviser on AI. Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in A.I., and help shape and coordinate A.I. policy across Government, Trump promised in an post on Truth Social, similar to the dozens he has posted since his victory in the presidential election in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day after the announcement, Laura Loomer took to X to criticize Krishnanover his thoughts on immigration, not his qualifications to advise the administration on AI. Loomer pointed to a post Krishnan made after Musk was named as one of the heads of the Department of Government Efficiency. The A7Z partner offered his own advice for cutting government waste: anything to remove country caps for green cards / unlock skilled immigration would be huge. Krishnan himself thanked Trump for the opportunity, but seems to have largely stayed away from the controversy since his nomination. The Other Emperor: Elon Musk Elon Musk, Co-Chair of the newly announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), arrives on Capitol Hill earlier this month. / Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, inserted himself into the debate shortly after Loomer began ranting about Krishnan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason Im in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B, Musk claimed in another post . After making a Tropic Thunder referenceTake a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the faceMusk said he would go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend. Musk seemed to soften his stance in another post on Saturday, admitting to the immigration hawks that the H1-B program was broken and needs major reform. The billionaire claimed the visa program could be fixed by tweaking the minimum salary requirements to make it more expensive for companies to hire overseas workers over American citizens. AND ON THE OTHER SIDE, THE OLD MAGA MOB The Crazy Conspiracy Theorist: Laura Loomer Laura Loomer strides off Donald Trumps plane ahead of the ABC News Presidential Debate in September. / Julia Beverly / Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laura Loomer is a right-wing provocateur and a longtime Trump loyalist who briefly ended up in the president-elects inner orbit on the 2024 campaign trail. Loomer called Krishnan a career leftist and said his views on immigration were in direct opposition to Trumps America First agenda. Loomers rants against the visa program also veered into racist screeds , including one claiming our country was built by white Europeans, actually. Not third world invaders from India. Loomer was notably banned from rideshare apps Uber and Lyft after a rant about Muslim drivers in 2017, and was later booted from mobile payment apps like PayPal. On Friday, Loomer was one of several MAGA influencers on X, the platform Musk purchased for $44 billion, who claimed they were demonetized or otherwise censored over their criticisms of H1-Bs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As one of Trumps biggest supporters, Im having my free speech silenced by a tech billionaire for simply questioning the tech oligarchy, Loomer whined . She also mocked Musk as a welfare queen, citing his companies status as recipients of hefty government contracts. The Reparations-ist: Steve Bannon The architect of Trumps 2016 presidential campaign has emerged as one of the chief critics of H1-B visas. I always give full respect to Elon. Elon was absolutely central, Bannon said on his War Room podcast last weekend, praising his get-out-the-vote strategy. He did write the check, and that gets him a seat at the tableIve said that from the beginningalthough I fundamentally disagree with him on major issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But by Monday, Bannons knives were out for the program and its backers, going as far to call for reparations for Americans who lost jobs foreign workers and calling Musk a toddler on right-wing Twitter clone Gettr . The workers that are here on H-1B visas should be deported at the same time were deporting the 15 million illegal aliens Biden brought across the border to suppress wages to low-income workers, Bannon said in an episode of his podcast on Monday, escalating his rhetoric. American workers should be hired immediately to fill those gaps, and then we should start the discussions on reparations, on what they knowingly did to American tech workers. DECIDING THE WINNER: THE EMPEROR DONALD TRUMP The president-elect has seemingly sided with Musk, Ramaswamy, and the other Silicon Valley supporters, so far, despite previously criticizing the H-1B program during his 2016 campaign and attempting to crack down on them during his first term in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive always liked the visas, I have always been in favor of the visas. Thats why we have them, Trump told the New York Post in an interview on Saturday. I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. Its a great program. So thumbs up or thumbs down? Like all sword-and-sandals epics this battle at Mar-a-Lago seems certain to run and run and run. The youngest victim of the South Korean plane crash was pictured staring out of the window of a aircraft on his first holiday abroad. Ko Yoonwoo was pictured travelling to Bangkok with his parents for a holiday. He was killed when his return flight, a Jeju Air plane with a total of 181 people on board, crashed on Sunday. The three-year-old died alongside his parents Kang Ko, 43, and Jin Lee Seon, 37. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The picture of Yoonwoo had been posted by his father on Instagram alongside other holiday snaps of the family. An earlier post showed the toddler at the airport next to his passport. The caption said: My son is going abroad for the first time on a night flight, and his first passport has no stamp! A photograph on Instagram showed three-year-old Ko Yoonwoo with his passport - Instagram/Kkangkko South Korean authorities began releasing the bodies of the crash victims to their families on Tuesday. However, the recovery and identification of all the remains may continue into next week, according to The Korea Times. US investigators, including from Boeing, have now arrived at the crash site in southwestern Muan, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It came as South Korean authorities began assessing two black boxes retrieved from the burned-out wreckage of the aircraft. The plane from Thailand was coming in to land at Muan International Airport when the pilot issued a mayday call before belly-landing and skidding along the runway. It then crashed into a barrier and burst into flames. Two survivors, both flight attendants, were pulled from the wreckage. South Korea is observing seven days of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast. Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who has only been in office since Friday, described the crash as a turning point for the country. He called for a review and full overhaul of air safety systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said officials must thoroughly re-examine the overall aircraft operation system ... and immediately address any necessary improvements. Speaking on Tuesday as 2024 drew to a close, Mr Sang-mok also urged citizens to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one. He added: I am well aware that whenever challenges arose, both domestically and internationally, all citizens and public officials united with one heart and mind to overcome these crises. (From left to right) Ko Yoonwoo, Jin Lee Seon and Kang Ko were returning from a holiday in Thailand when they died - Instagram/kkangkko On Monday, South Korean broadcaster KBC News reported that one family lost nine members in the crash, including the oldest passenger on the plane, 78-year-old Bae Yung. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Bae was travelling abroad for the first time to celebrate his birthday. He was with his wife, two daughters, a son-in-law, and four grandchildren, one of whom was just five years old. His other son-in-law was unable to join the trip and is now one of the few surviving members of the family. I should have gone with them and died with them, he said, according to the head of the village where the family came from. Only two of the 181 people on board the plane survived the crash - AFP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Korean nationals were not the only victims. They also included Sirithon Cha-ue, a Thai woman whose story quickly spread across the countrys social media hours after she was reported dead. The 22-year-old had won a scholarship to become a flight attendant and had only three months left before graduation, her uncle said. She had been returning to South Korea after visiting her mother in Thailand. Meanwhile, grieving families remained at the airport, frustrated by the delay in retrieving the remaining bodies. It came as another Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 experienced a mechanical issue shortly after take-off on Monday, further raising safety concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the chief executive of the airline said the company would reduce its air traffic this winter by 10 to 15 per cent while it carried out more maintenance work on its planes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. LUSAKA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The year 2024 has been fruitful for the China-Zambia cooperation as the two countries celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties. Spurred by the elevation of the cooperation to a Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership following a state visit to China by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in September 2023, the two countries designated 2024 as the Year of Business Cooperation, as well as the Year of Culture and Tourism. Han Jing, the Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, said during a ceremony to commemorate 60 years of ties on Oct. 29 that the commemoration of the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations could not have taken place at a better time and was aiming to carry forward the traditional friendship between the two countries from generation to generation. For his part, President Hichilema said the relationship between the two countries has reached its best in history and Zambia will never forget the valuable support from the Chinese government and people over the past 60 years. Indeed, 2024 has been a momentous year in the bilateral relations between the two countries. To celebrate the anniversary, a number of activities have been held and several cooperation agreements inked to enhance the ties. Among the events was the Zambia-China High-Quality Development Forum and Economic Exhibition in May. The exhibition attracted more than 200 enterprises from China and Zambia. During the event, dozens of documents on practical cooperation worth 1.03 billion U.S. dollars were signed between Chinese and Zambian enterprises. Other activities included the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of the first-ever vaccine manufacturing plant in Zambia. The two countries also launched the "Harmony in Diversity: Zambia-China Bilateral Relationship Art Exhibition" as part of the commemoration of 60 years of bilateral ties. A hallmark of the year was the attendance of the Zambian president at this year's Forum on China Africa summit in China, during which Zambia signed a number of deals in various sectors. One of the documents aims to assist Zambia in diversifying its energy mix by investing in alternative power generation projects, including solar energy. According to the Chinese Ambassador, these projects are expected to add an additional 720 megawatts of electricity to Zambia's grid once completed. Another key agreement was to revitalize the Tanzania-Zambia Railway to turn it into a viable regional connectivity project. China also donated about 500,000 dollars to help Zambia tackle an outbreak of cholera. Additionally, on Aug. 30, a ceremony was held to exchange letters regarding Emergency Humanitarian Food Assistance and China-Aid Projects. This involved China's provision of emergency humanitarian food aid to Zambia and assistance in the construction of mealie meal milling plants. The relationship between China and Zambia in the past 60 years has seen tremendous growth for the mutual benefit of the two countries. As the Zambian president said in the commemoration ceremony, the two countries were celebrating 60 years of partnership with renewed vigor and more focus on what the partnership means to the two governments. ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) A man from Seminole is dead after he crashed his vehicle while fleeing from authorities in St. Petersburg early Monday morning, Florida Highway Patrol announced. Around 3 a.m., Pinellas County Sheriffs deputies attempted to stop a 2023 Dodge Charger over the tint of its windows. The vehicle fled, causing deputies to request assistance from FHP. The vehicle was spotted again traveling at a high rate of speed near Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North and 7th Avenue North, according to FHP. A trooper tried overtaking the vehicle, and deputies deployed spike strips, but the suspect still managed to flee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After losing sight of the vehicle, troopers located it shortly thereafter crashed at 16th Street South and 7th Avenue North in St. Petersburg at 3:15 a.m. The driver, 30, suffered fatal injuries from the crash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. AURORA, Mo. An Aurora man is behind bars after authorities say they found bomb-making materials at his home. Lance Bishop, 56, is being held in the Lawrence County Jail on allegations of assault, unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action, and making a terrorist threat. Lance Bishop, 56. The Aurora-Marionville Police Department served a search warrant at Bishops apartment in Aurora yesterday. Once inside, officers say they found pipe bomb materials, so they called in a bomb squad and evacuated the apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steps were taken to make sure those materials were safe, and then seized. Bishop is being held without bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter also left a legacy with Habitat For Humanity as one of the organizations biggest supporters. President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, helped build affordable housing for more than 35 years. Pitt County Habitat For Humanity is mourning the loss and remembering President Carters contributions. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter out there wearing hard hats and doing things for people that they didnt know because they felt the need to serve others and to help others with their plight of affordable housing, Executive Director of Habitat For Humanity of Pitt County Scott Johnson said. It was the impact was huge. He was a man that was known worldwide. Nobel Peace Prize winner. He could eat and dine and converse with the most important people. Instead, he was putting on a hard hat a couple of times a year, swinging your hammer and saying, No, its important to give back to others.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carters first volunteered in March of 1984 with the organization in Americus, Ga. Each year since then, they volunteered to improve houses and communities across the country and world. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Roughly 630,000 people died of HIV-related illnesses worldwide in 2023, according to the World Health Organization. That number might be set to decrease, thanks in part to the scientific discoveries of a University of Utah biochemist. Wesley Sundquist's lab at the U. laid the foundation for the development of a highly effective, long-lasting prophylactic or preventive measure against HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The resulting drug lenacapavir was developed by pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences and has since been named the "Breakthrough of the Year" by Science, a top scientific journal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Science described the drug as "a pivotal step toward diminishing HIV/AIDS as a global health crisis." Although the U. wasn't responsible for developing the drug, Sundquist served as a consultant to Gilead Sciences, and his science was instrumental as the basis for creating lenacapavir. Sundquist, a biochemist and chairman of the university's Department of Biochemistry, is involved in research focused on how HIV is built on a molecular level and how it interacts with the body to infect and spread through cells. "The work goes back quite some time. We started in the late '90s," Sundquist said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By purifying and analyzing the protein shell that surrounds the virus's genetic material, Sundquist's team discovered what the shell looks like and how it's put together. In a crucial step, the research team found that the virus's shell is highly sensitive to changes. Making even small tweaks to the proteins that make up the shell stopped the virus from replicating as quickly, which suggested that drugs that affect the protein shell could prove to be effective. It was these insights that caught the attention of Gilead Sciences, prompting the company to search for drugs that target HIV's protein shell otherwise known as a capsid tapping Sundquist as a consultant and eventually leading to the development of lenacapavir. University of Utah biochemist Wesley Sundquist is pictured. Sundquist's lab laid the foundation for the development of a highly effective, long-lasting drug against HIV, which has been named the "Breakthrough of the Year" by Science, a top scientific journal. | Charlie Ehlert, University of Utah Health The drug itself binds the viral protein shell of HIV, preventing it from assembling properly and productively entering the nucleus of host cells. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "HIV is unusual because it has a cone-shaped capsid like an ice cream cone. It was of interest to understand how it can make a cone, and we were, of course, very curious about how proteins can assemble into a cone shape and also what that did for the virus," Sundquist said. Unlike other HIV drugs, lenacapavir is noteworthy due to its potential for preventing HIV entirely. "It's (lenacapavir is) very potent but even more importantly, it's very long-lasting in humans," Sundquist said. "What we'd like to be able to do in a process called PrEP pre-exposure prophylactics is to prevent transmission from one person to another." This has been difficult, Sundquist said, not because there aren't drugs already on the market that can prevent transmission, but because the existing drugs are not very long-lasting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People become noncompliant because it's hard to take drugs every single day for something that you don't yet have. The advantage of lenacapavir is it's a single shot that protects people for six months from getting the virus," Sundquist said. "It's something like a vaccine. It's a small molecule not a vaccine, but it behaves the same way." Especially in contexts where people have limited access to medical care, the longer duration of lenacapavir leads to a marked difference in outcomes. In fact, in large clinical trials in South Africa and Uganda two HIV hot spots not one of the more than 2,000 women who received a dose of lenacapavir contracted HIV over the course of the study. "Lenacapavir almost completely prevents the transmission of HIV into at-risk populations," Sundquist said. "This is just an amazing result." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow-up trials in other populations, including men and people who identify as nonbinary, have further confirmed the drug's efficacy, Sundquist said. Along with contributions to global health, Sundquist sees his lab's work being motivated primarily by discovery. "We're driven by curiosity to discover things that we don't understand," he said. "It's not so different from other kinds of adventures. The same thing that drives people to climb mountains drives us to discover how molecular machines work." Although Sundquist said that a big portion of the work on an HIV drug is now outside of the scope of his lab, he's excited for the future possibilities his work with Gilead Sciences leads to, hinting that the company thinks it could formulate the drug to last for a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the work on HIV is far from over. "We still need a vaccine. That would be even better because then you could give everyone the vaccine and protect everyone, not just at-risk individuals," Sundquist said. "That's been a very difficult problem." COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) An American Airlines flight from Columbus to Boston, Massachusetts safely landed in Pittsburgh after a possible lightning strike. According to an American Airlines spokesperson, a flight that departed from John Glenn Columbus International Airport at 6:55 a.m., bound for Boston Logan International Airport, was rerouted to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania after reports of a possible lightning strike. Plane crash in southwest Ohio kills one Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flight, according to Flight Aware, was approaching the West Virginia border at approximately 7:15 a.m. The plane, a Embraer ERJ 175 twin-jet, made a 90-degree turn to the north, then began a slow decent while circling twice around the West Virginia and Pennsylvania border. It then headed east towards Pittsburgh International Airport and landed just before 8 a.m. The AA spokesperson told NBC4 that while an official inspection is still pending, as a precaution the flight crew reported a possible lightning strike shortly after departing Columbus. The plane landed without incident and taxied to the gate. No injuries were reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. (Bloomberg) -- After two leaders were impeached in as many weeks, a deadly plane crash has prompted South Koreas feuding political camps to temporarily halt a protracted power struggle. Most Read from Bloomberg In the immediate aftermath of the Jeju Air flight crash on Sunday, which killed all but two of the 181 people onboard, South Koreas rival political parties appeared to put aside their recent animosity to respond to the disaster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acting President Choi Sang-mok, just two days into his role, led the emergency response and declared a week-long mourning period until Jan. 4. The opposition Democratic Party, responsible for the impeachment campaigns against President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, canceled parliamentary sessions where they had grilled officials for weeks to visit the disaster site. The political wrangling will pause at least for the mourning period, said Eom Kyeong-young, a former government official whos now director of the Zeitgeist Institute, a research group in Seoul. But the Democratic Party is unlikely to change tact in seeking a swift ouster of Yoon. The tragedy has compounded the challenges facing South Korea, which is already going through one of its most turbulent periods in years after Yoons short-lived imposition of martial law earlier this month. The move shocked the world, rattled markets and plunged the nation into a constitutional crisis, leading to the impeachments of Yoon and Han, before Choi took over on Dec. 27. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik convened a rare bipartisan meeting in Seoul on Tuesday after party leaders returned from Muan, where they met with the families of air crash victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kwon Young-se, interim leader of the ruling People Power Party, sat alongside Woo and opposition leader Lee Jae-myung as he pledged that his party would lead efforts to develop parliamentary response measures to the crash. Kwon urged politicians to focus on their duties and leave judicial issues to the courts. Lee said he looked forward to working with the ruling party to ease political uncertainties that have pressured the economy and markets. While the political fighting has paused for now, the risks remain far from over. A court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon on Tuesday after he repeatedly ignored summons to appear for questioning. This may make him the first sitting president in the countrys history to be arrested. A trial is also ongoing to decide whether to reinstate or permanently remove Yoon from office. The court has until June to make a decision, and the next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the unprecedented concentration of responsibilities in Acting President Choi has raised concerns about the governments ability to function effectively. Choi, who is also Finance Minister, is juggling multiple key roles from managing economic policies to overseeing national governance and the emergency response. On top of that, hes burdened by security concerns, as the defense minister and several military commanders have been arrested or suspended for their alleged involvement in the martial law plan. This is particularly worrying given the many risks South Korea faces, including preparing for the incoming Trump administration and its protectionist policies, as well as dealing with nuclear threats from North Korea. The economy was already slowing on sluggish domestic demand and weakening exports before the martial law. Bloomberg Economics estimates growth will slow to 1.6% next year from 2.1% in 2024, compared to its previous forecast of 1.9% and 2.2%, respectively, made in November before the crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The won has declined to its lowest level since 2009, with analysts attributing this to a stronger dollar and negative sentiment driven by political instability. For the past few days, the Democratic Party, which holds the majority in parliament, has threatened another impeachment over the appointment of Constitutional Court justices. Three of the nine seats on the court remain vacant, and filling them could bolster the chances of upholding Yoons impeachment. Lawmakers from the party have said they would consider impeaching Choi if he doesnt accept the parliaments nominees for the court. Citigroup Inc. warned that uncertainties could escalate and persist for longer as the court process unfolds. It expects the court to uphold Yoons impeachment around mid-March, leading to a new presidential election in early to mid-May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoon, who has largely remained silent since his impeachment, expressed his condolences over the latest disaster. I am deeply saddened and devastated, Yoon said in a Facebook post on Sunday. I trust the government will do its best to handle the aftermath of the accident and support the victims. (Updates with bipartisan meeting and additional details from sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A pilot is safe after making an emergency landing in Clarke County. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] It happened on Christmas Eve, around 5:15 a.m. Athens- Clarke County firefighters were called to Ben Epps Airport on Ben Epps Drive for an aircraft in distress. The pilot told fire crews the Cessna 337 Skymaster was having difficulty with landing gear. TRENDING STORIES: Numerous fire crews pulled onto the runway as the plane landed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire department said the pilot was able to make a belly landing. Although there was some damage to the plane, no injuries were reported. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio (WCMH) A man suspected of attempting to abduct a woman near a Grandview Heights apartment complex is now in custody. According to detectives with the Grandview Heights Division of Police, 41-year-old Matthew Spencer was wanted for abduction, a third-degree felony. Spencer is accused of attempting to abduct a woman in the Grandview Yard on the evening of Dec. 11. Plane crash in southwest Ohio kills one Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police received reports of an attempted abduction at around 9:30 that night when a woman told officers she was walking to a residence at the Apartments at the Yard, on Baldwin Drive, when a man wearing a surgical mask grabbed her from behind. The victim said the man attempted to pull her toward a car in a nearby parking lot and threatened to hurt her, but that she was able to break free and escape. Grandview Heights police say Spencer, who is currently on parole for a guilty plea in a 2018 burglary case, was arrested Monday and is being held at Franklin County Jail. Spencer has also faced charges in Franklin County Common Pleas Court and Municipal Court for burglary, twice, as well as escape, aggravated vehicular assault, drug trafficking, domestic violence, drug possession and violation of a protection order charges between 2004 and 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who has additional information is asked to call Grandview Heights police at 614-488-7901. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Officers discovered several guns, including a high-powered rifle, in a Fall River mans house and car after executing a search warrant, according to authorities. 33-year-old Jonathan Spears is charged with multiple violations of Massachusetts gun laws, including two counts of possession of a large capacity firearm, three counts of possession of a large capacity feeding device, and two counts of possession of ammunition with no FID/LTC. Fall River Police say during a follow-up investigation to an incident on Sunday in the 200 block of Ames Street, Detective Christopher Teves applied for and executed a search warrant on a residence and vehicle, along with members of the Community Action & Suppression Team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, a .308 AR10 rifle was seized from the home and a Glock 19 was seized from the center console of the car. Spears was taken into custody and will be arraigned. The success of this investigation was the result of exceptional teamwork and collaboration between two divisions, highlighting their dedication to achieving a common goal, Fall River Police wrote in a social media post. No further information was immediately available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW LUANDA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Oil and natural gas accounted for 94 percent of Angola's total exports, while diamonds contributed 4 percent, and other products made up just 1.5 percent, highlighting that "Angola's petro-dependency continues," local media has reported, citing official data for the first nine months of 2024. Angola's economic diversification is progressing, "but very slowly and insufficient to meet the country's needs," the Expansao newspaper said Tuesday, noting that in January-September, apart from oil, natural gas, and diamonds, other goods generated 418.7 million U.S. dollars, up from 363 million dollars posted in the same period in 2023. The report quoted Manuel Neto da Costa, former minister of economy and planning of Angola, as saying that the country's 2024 economic diversification achievements remain "insignificant," when measured against economic demands, government expectations, and national potential. Angolan media also reported that the country's total export revenues rose by 3 percent year-on-year during the first three quarters of 2024, in line with the growth of oil revenues. INDEPENDENCE, Mo. Independence police are still investigating what caused a crash that killed a 93-year-old woman. The incident happened as she was walking near Lees Summit Road and 38th Street on Saturday night. She was at church less than an hour before. FOX4 is told the 93-year-old woman was a parishioner at St. Mark Catholic Church in Independence. They said she went to 5 oclock mass Saturday, the night she was killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was in shock, I didnt know what to think, said Victoria McDaniel, devastated to hear her friend and co-worker of more than 30 years was killed. Brookside restaurant robbed over the weekend, suspects still at-large Police have identified the victim as Sophia Machajewski. Investigators say the crash happened just before 6 p.m. Saturday. Independence Police Ofc. Bryan Conley said a driver headed north on Lees Summit Road and hit the woman. Were still unsure why this individual was in the roadway. We do know that she did live in the area, Conley said. McDaniel said Sophia often walked to St. Mark Catholic Church, which sits about a half block from her home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im just upset about how it came to be, how it all happened, McDaniel added. McDaniel heard someone stopped to help her friend and stayed by Sophias side until help arrived. They stopped to comfort her, she said. It says a lot, they have a kind heart. Theyre caring people. Police say the woman died on scene. McDaniel remembers Sophia or Sophie as a sweet spirit. I just want everybody to know that she was a wonderful person and shes home with her husband and her family. So up in heaven, I hope she rests in peace, McDaniel said. My heart goes out to her family. I know its got to be tough for them, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating. Conley said while speed and alcohol were not factors in the crash, fog may have played a role, but thats part of the investigation. Im sure that did play into, making visibility extremely low, but again thats all being investigated right now by the accident investigation unit, Conley said. But I dont know for certain what definitively caused the crash, if the fog played into it. I do know that speed and alcohol were not factors. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Police ask anyone with security cameras or doorbell footage that may be useful to give them a call at (816) 325-7300 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The City of Springfield is giving residents the opportunity to meet with police officers and learn more about the civil service process at two upcoming police officer exam open houses. Springfield offices to close early ahead of New Years The sessions will be held on January 6 and January 27, both starting at 6:00 p.m. They will be held at the Springfield Police Training Facility on Page Boulevard where members of the Springfield Police Department will educate community members about the civil service process and answer questions. These open houses are set ahead of the Civil Service Exam application deadline on January 28, 2025. Information regarding the exam can be found on the mass.gov website. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Police officers are using a record amount of force to restrain violent children as young as 11 amid a surge in knife crime, official figures show. The number of cases where police had to deploy force to restrain children, including those under the age of 11, increased by more than 14 per cent from 74,470 in the year to March 2023 to 85,148 in the year to March 2024. This is more than double the 29,000 incidents when the Home Office first started collecting police use of force data in 2017/18. It included 546 cases where officers had to draw firearms in order to restrain in the past year. Other tactics included Tasers, handcuffs, spit guards and physical force. Among the children were nearly 900 who were under 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It comes as the proportion of children saying they have been victims of violence in the past year has increased sharply and knife crime is on the cusp of returning to its pre-pandemic peak. Nationally the number of police-recorded knife crime offences which include the use of the weapons in murder, rape, robbery and threats to kill have risen 3.6 per cent from 49, 187 to 50,973. The only previous time the annual figures passed 50,000 was in 2020 when it reached 51,982. In London, where Sadiq Khan is mayor, knife crime has already hit a record high - Stefan Rousseau/PA In London, where mayor Sadiq Khan was knighted in the New Years honours, knife crime has already hit a record high of 15,859 in the year to June 2024, up 16 per cent on the previous year, according to the Office for National Statistics. Jon Yates, executive director of the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF), which is backed by the Government to combat youth violence, said: While the vast majority of police use of force is against adults, increasing use of force against children should trouble us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Government has committed to halve knife crime. That requires police action but it also requires targeted support for troubled children. We need mentors and therapists working with those who most need it to prevent the violence in the first place. The data show that overall incidents including adults where police had to use force jumped by 13.3 per cent to a record high of 747,396 equivalent to more than 2,000 a day. These involved the deployment of more than one million different tactics for the first time ranging from use of firearms to handcuffs and physical restraint. Almost half (48 per cent) of use of force reports involved people aged 18 to 34 years (361,460 incidents). One in nine (11 per cent) or 85,148, however, involved children aged 17 and under. Of these, 885 were aged under 11 (equivalent to one 1000 or 0.1 per cent of all police use of force reports). The majority (88 per cent) of the tactics where force was used by police involved restraint or unarmed skills. However, more than in 10 incidents involved firearms, handcuffs or other physical restraint measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One in five (20 per cent) children have been victims of violence in the past 12 months, up from 16 per cent in the previous year and 14 per cent in 2022, according to a study of 10,000 13- to 17-year-olds by the YEF, which was endowed by the Home Office to invest 200 million in tackling youth violence. More than half of the incidences (61 per cent) of violence involving the children resulted in physical injury, equivalent to 440,000 children in England and Wales. One in 20 said it involved a weapon, while two thirds said they had been attacked multiple times. One in 20 (5 per cent) of those surveyed said they had carried a weapon in the past year. One in 50 (2 per cent) said that they carried a knife. One in six (17 per cent) of those who had carried weapons said they had done it with zombie-style knives or machetes. Other items included screwdrivers, sticks or clubs. Younger teenagers, aged 13 to 15, were more likely to carry weapons compared to those aged 16 to 17, according to the research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Too many young lives are lost or scarred by violence. It is not OK that almost nine out of 10 children who commit violent acts get no support at all. We must do better at spotting which children need help and providing them with evidence-based support to change things and save lives, said Mr Yates. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (FOX40.COM) An armed robbery at a Northern California movie theater is under investigation, according to the Folsom Police Department. At around 9:15 p.m. on Sunday, a caller reported that a friend texted and said she had been robbed at gunpoint at the Palladio movie theater in Folsom. FPD responded to the scene with patrol rifles and secured the theater. Officers said it was unclear if the gunman was still in the area. Teen on e-bike leads police on dangerous chase in Northern California Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the search for the armed suspect, officers said they asked theater employees to go outside. They also walked six patrons out to the lobby with their hands raised to ensure the suspect was not among the people in the theater. They later learned the suspect was gone. The victim reportedly told police that the robber threatened her with a gun and claimed he had people watching her in the theater. She said he stole her car from the parking lot and she was afraid to leave and report the robbery until officers arrived. FPD said it found the stolen car in Sacramento. The robbery suspect is described by police as a white male, 18-20 years old, with brown hair, and wearing a black jacket. The incident is under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Update 1/1, 6:40 p.m.: SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) The family of the woman who was found dead in the backseat of a vehicle during a traffic stop has released a statement, identifying her and saying her death is a tragic and untimely loss. In the statement, provided to ABC4.com by attorney Christopher Ault, the family identified the victim as Summer Tatiana Roney and said she was a vibrant, kind, and loving soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. An undated image of Summer Tatiana Roney. Her family released a statement after her body was reportedly found in the backseat of a car during a traffic stop in Utah. (Courtesy: Family of Tatiana Roney via Christopher Ault) She was deeply loved by her friends, family, and coworkers, who will always remember her infectious personality and the joy she brought into their lives, the statement reads. This senseless act has left an unfillable void in our hearts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family has asked for privacy as they grieve. The full statement from the family is below: The family of Summer Tatiana Roney is heartbroken by her tragic and untimely loss. Summer was a vibrant, kind, and loving soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. She was deeply loved by her friends, family, and coworkers, who will always remember her infectious personality and the joy she brought into their lives. This senseless act has left an unfillable void in our hearts. We ask for privacy during this difficult time as we grieve and remember the incredible person Summer is. Statement from family of Summer Tatiana Roney The driver of the car, identified as Jacob Johnson, 40, was safely taken into custody by the Saratoga Springs Police Department on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. While speaking with investigators, Johnson allegedly said he was in an intimate relationship with the victim and the two lived together in Herriman. Court records show Johnson was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail where he faces first-degree felony murder. He has been ordered to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing. Original story: Womans body found in backseat of car during Bluffdale traffic stop HERRIMAN, Utah (ABC4) A womans body was found in the backseat of a mans car during a late-night traffic stop in Bluffdale, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sgt. Greg Shaver with the Herriman Police Department confirmed the body was found inside the car at a gas station parking lot near Redwood Road and Porter Rockwell Boulevard. Just after midnight, police conducted a DUI investigation which led to the discovery of the deceased female. Court documents say the victim was found with significant injuries and trauma that would be consistent with homicide. The driver of the car, identified as Jacob Johnson, 40, was safely taken into custody by the Saratoga Springs Police Department. While speaking with investigators, Johnson allegedly said he was in an intimate relationship with the victim and the two lived together in Herriman. Johnson reportedly said he and the victim had an argument and said it was over with their relationship, according to court documents. When asked if the victim had any injuries, Johnson reportedly said there was physical trauma but would not elaborate. Johnson then allegedly admitted to putting the victim in the backseat of his car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records show Johnson was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail where he faces first-degree felony murder. He has been ordered to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing. There is no further information available at this time. MJ Jewkes contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Charleston Police are working to identify a man who assaulted an employee at Five Below while stealing merchandise. Officers were told on December 21 that an unknown man attempted to steal several items from a Five Below store on Savannah Highway. When the man was confronted by an employee, they say he scratched the employees arm. The department shared images of the individual accused of the strong-arm robbery and asked the community for information that could help them identify the man. You are asked to contact the Charleston Police Department at 843-720-2422 and request to speak with the on-duty Central Detective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. The suspected gunman in a violent shooting at a Target store in downtown Los Angeles was arrested Tuesday, just a few short blocks from where the crime occurred. The unidentified suspect, who police referred to as a person of interest, was arrested after an hourslong standoff at an apartment building on the 1200 block of Ingraham Street in the Westlake District. Police say the suspect barricaded himself inside the apartment as officers attempted to serve a warrant at the residence. Viewer footage from the scene showed several broken windows and KTLAs Chris Wolfe reported several canisters of tear gas were delivered into the mans makeshift bunker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Images later shared with KTLA showed a person being detained at the scene surrounded by several heavily armed officers, including special enforcement bureau officers wearing gas masks. A man is seen being detained in the Westlake District on Dec. 31, 2024, when LAPD officers served a warrant in connection with a shooting at a downtown Target store the day earlier. (Daniel Zelaya) The arrest came hours after the Los Angeles Police Department held a press conference to discuss the ongoing search and released the first images of the gunman, who shot two security guards at the Target store located in the FigAt7th shopping mall. According to police, the suspect, a man believed to be in his early 20s, shot the two security guards after they confronted him for shoplifting. The suspect entered the store carrying a briefcase and filled it with stolen items before walking past the registers without paying, police officials said during a Tuesday press conference. Police inundated a Westlake neighborhood on Dec. 31, 2024, as they served a search warrant in connection with a shooting at a downtown Los Angeles Target store. He was confronted by the security guards outside the Target where a confrontation ensued, LAPD Capt. Raul Jovel said. During that scuffle, the suspect produced a pistol and began firing indiscriminately, shooting two people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police also confirmed that one of the two security guards was armed and exchanged gunfire with the assailant. This was a gunfight, Jovel added. At least 10 rounds were fired between the two with several walls hit. At the time of their afternoon press conference, LAPD officials said it was unclear if the gunman was hit by return fire. Photos shared by LAPD Tuesday morning showed the man who fired and struck the two security guards. He was described as being between 5 feet 8 inches and 6 feet tall and weighing around 160 pounds. At the time of the shooting, he was wearing a black jacket, purple scarf, gray pants and a black do-rag. The mans weapon was described as a 9mm pistol. The Los Angeles Police Department released security images of the suspected gunman in a shooting at a DTLA Target on Dec. 30, 2024. Prior to his arrest Tuesday evening, he was considered to be armed and dangerous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting, which happened around 9 p.m. at a Target store located at 735 S. Figueroa St. in the FigAt7th shopping mall in downtown L.A., left the two security guards hospitalized, one of whom was in critical condition. During Tuesdays press conference, LAPD officials provided a positive update, saying that one of the security guards had been released from the hospital. L.A. police and fire personnel on the scene of a double shooting on Dec. 30, 2024. (KNN) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The armed security guard was employed by the shopping center, police said, while the other works in loss prevention for Target. FigAt7th said in a statement that the mall was deeply troubled by the incident that occurred Monday night and was working closely with police in their investigation. A statement from Target added that the company was saddened by this horrible act of violence and our thoughts are with those who were injured, their friends and families. The store where the shooting took place remains closed as of Tuesday night, store officials confirmed. Jovel said the LAPD and its law enforcement partners were committed to combating retail theft as they strive to make downtown a safe location to visit, live and work at. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting remains under investigation and anyone with information is urged to contact LAPD Central Robbery Detective Alvarez at 213-833-3750. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. TOPEKA (KSNT) Topeka police were working at the scene of a reported hit-and-run crash Tuesday afternoon. Officers with the Topeka Police Department told a 27 News reporter a hit-and-run crash happened around noon on Dec. 31 at the intersection of Southwest Sixth Avenue and Southwest MacVicar Avenue. One vehicle was knocked on its side near the intersection while another driver involved in the crash left the area. TPD issue report in hit-and-run death of homeless man Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the other driver was stopped by law enforcement and is cooperating. No injuries have been reported in this crash. (Photo By: Tim Schoepflin) (Photo By: Tim Schoepflin) (Photo By: Tim Schoepflin) For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. TUNIS, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Tunisian government on Monday issued a decree to extend the state of emergency (SoE) imposed across the country for another month. The decree, signed by Tunisian President Kais Saied, extends the SoE first declared in 2015 to Jan. 30, 2025, according to the Journal of the Republic of Tunisia, an official biweekly gazette. Tunisian emergency law grants the authorities exceptional powers, including carrying out home arrests, banning official meetings, imposing curfews, monitoring media and press, prohibiting assemblies, and conducting media censorship without permission from the judiciary. The SoE in Tunisia was first declared on Nov. 24, 2015, following a bomb attack on a bus of the presidential guards, killing 12 agents. In late January, the Tunisian government extended the SoE till the end of 2024. BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) Police in Virginia and Tennessee are seeking a man who allegedly fired a gun at officers while fleeing during a high-speed pursuit Tuesday morning. According to the Bristol Virginia Police Department (BVPD), officers were told at 4:13 a.m. that Elihu Joseph Martin was seen in the city. Mr. Martin is currently wanted by the Virginia State Police and the Washington County Virginia Sheriffs Office for attempted manslaughter and other felony charges, a news release from the BVPD states. Mr. Martin was reportedly driving a stolen blue Ford F-150 truck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Crime Watch The BVPD reports that Martin was found driving the stolen truck on I-81 North near Exit 7. A BVPD officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop as they entered Washington County; however, Martin allegedly refused to stop. Martin led two officers on what the BVPD described as a high-speed pursuit through Washington County, Virginia and then into Sullivan County, Tennessee. Martin allegedly fired three gunshots from the truck at officers while on Highway 421 near Friendship Rd. He fired another three shots at officers near Jacob Creek Recreation area, the release states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police: Man used 2x4s to barricade home during Kingsport standoff The BVPD reports officers were not struck by gunshots either time. Martin managed to elude officers in the area of Denton Valley Rd in Sullivan County. The U.S. Marshals Service and local law enforcement are still searching for Martin as of 11:45 a.m. Tuesday. The BVPD reports Martin resides in Shady Valley, Tennessee. Martin should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees him or knows of his location is asked to call the police. The Tennessee Highway Patrol located the Ford F-150 on Government Road in Johnson County around 11 a.m. However, Martin remains at large. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the BVPD, charges against Martin are pending for the pursuit. The BVPD and the Sullivan County Sheriffs Office are working together to investigate the shootings. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. MADISON, Tenn. (WKRN) Nashville authorities are searching for a man believed to be connected to a deadly shooting that occurred outside of a Madison home earlier this month. The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) said officers were sent to the 100 block of Harrington Avenue just after 9 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15 to respond to a shooting. PREVIOUS | Man dead after shooting near Madison home, police say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities reported Jerome Gordon, 36, was found near a fence in the backyard with gunshot wound to the head. Gordon was reportedly taken to TriStar Skyline Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Brian Hardy (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department) Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department According to police, the location where Gordan was shot is a condemned residence with unhoused individuals living behind it. On Tuesday, Dec. 31, officers announced that a criminal homicide warrant had been issued for 58-year-old Brian Hardy. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee Officials said Hardy is believed to be homeless and may be riding an orange bike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who sees Hardy or knows of his whereabouts is asked to call 615-742-7463. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. ST. LOUIS Police are seeking help identifying a woman and two men after allegedly carjacking a Cadillac from a man at a Dutchtown gas station. According to SLMPD, the vehicle was stolen from a 47-year-old man while parked at a gas pump at the Conoco gas station in the 4300 block of S. Broadway. Reportedly, the 47-year-old victim and the female suspect went to the gas station after she asked him for a ride to Conoco around 5:30 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Louis City Sheriff files for restraining order against outgoing sheriff After making a purchase inside the gas station, the victim returned to his vehicle, and two unknown men approached him with firearms while demanding his keys. After the victim gave his keys to the suspects, they fled in the Cadillac with the female still inside. According to SLMPD, the woman had sold the stolen vehicle to three other men after the carjacking. Later that afternoon, around 1 p.m., the stolen Cadillac was located on South Grand at Arsenal, and officers began pulling behind the stolen vehicle when it took off speeding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police pursued the vehicle until the Cadillac struck another vehicle and multiple sidewalk curbs before it was no longer drivable. While in the 3100 block of Chippewa, the three men and the female suspect excited the vehicle and ran on foot. The three men, aged 32, 34, and 40, were arrested after fleeing police in the stolen Cadillac Escalade. Police continued to pursue them on foot and took the three men in custody, but the female got away. SLMPD said narcotics and two firearms were seized after the arrest. Police are still seeking information and identification for the female suspect and the two men who initially carjacked the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with a tip about this incident who wants to remain anonymous and is interested in a possible cash reward can contact CrimeStopper at 866-371-TIPS (8477) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Police are seeking the publics help in finding a Boston woman who has been missing for over a week. Maria Ines Goncalves, 50, of Roxbury was last seen on Dec. 21 on Maywood Street in Roxbury, police said Monday night. She is reported to suffer from mental health complications. Police described Goncalves as a Black female, standing about 5 feet tall, weighing about 145 pounds, with a thin build, short black hair, and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black hat, black jacket, grey cargo pants, and red and white sneakers. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is urged to call 911 or Boston detectives at 617-343-4275. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you would prefer to share information anonymously, you can call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting the word TIP to CRIME (27463). This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW 2024 was a landmark year for prosecutions tied to politics. It marked the first criminal conviction of a former president and the first criminal conviction of a sitting presidents child. Lawmakers in both chambers faced criminal charges. And lawyers, aides and allies to those political figures were ensnared in legal troubles of their own. Heres whose legal matters dominated the news in 2024 and where they all stand heading into 2025. President-elect Trump At the start of this year, former President Trump faced four criminal cases and a flurry of civil cases. But now, the criminal cases against Trump have largely fallen apart while his civil cases have slipped into muddy waters and hell soon return to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Trumps election win, special counsel Jack Smith dismissed all charges against him in his federal election subversion and classified documents cases. A federal judge dismissed the election subversion case without prejudice, leaving open a theoretical possibility that the government could bring charges again once Trumps term is over. In Florida, a different federal judge had already dismissed the documents case for Trump and his two co-defendants after finding Smith was unlawfully appointed; the appeal of that decision will go forward for the other two defendants. Meanwhile, Trumps Georgia criminal case could be doomed after a state appeals court disqualified Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis (D) from the case over her once-romantic relationship with a top prosecutor. The appeals panel found it amounted to a significant appearance of impropriety that justified the removal of Williss office from the case. Willis appealed the disqualification to the Georgia Supreme Court, which must first decide whether to take up the appeal at all before ruling on whether to revive her prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in New York, the fate of Trumps criminal case is still in limbo. Judge Juan Merchan upheld a jurys verdict convicting Trump on 34 counts of falsifying business records after finding that the outcome could withstand the Supreme Courts new test for presidential immunity. But the judge must still rule on whether Trumps White House victory compels the dismissal of the jurys verdict and the case in its entirety. Trumps civil cases, however, are still moving forward. New York Attorney General Letitia Jamess (D) civil fraud case is being weighed by the states midlevel appeals court and two defamation suits brought by advice columnist E. Jean Carroll are also being actively appealed. Between judgments in the two cases, Trump is staring down the barrel of more than a half-billion dollars in penalties. Hunter Biden Hunter Biden, the son of President Biden, this year was convicted by a jury on federal gun charges and pleaded guilty to federal tax charges, avoiding a trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, his slate has been wiped clean. President Biden issued his son a full and unconditional pardon after months of vowing he would not, granting him clemency for any offenses against the U.S. from Jan. 1, 2014, to Dec. 1, 2024. No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunters cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son and that is wrong, President Biden said in a statement. As a result, the judges in Hunter Bidens gun and tax cases canceled his sentencings and began winding the cases down but not before one of the judges, U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi, blasted the president for insinuating his son was selectively prosecuted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Constitution provides the President with broad authority to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, but nowhere does the Constitution give the President the authority to rewrite history. Bob Menendez Former Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) was found guilty in July of bribery, acting as a foreign agent and a slew of other charges in his federal corruption case. The ex-chair of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee was convicted on all 16 counts he faced, from accepting luxurious bribes in exchange for his political clout to acting as a foreign agent of Egypt. A federal judge earlier this month declined to throw out all those convictions in a long-shot bid by Menendez, but he did eliminate a count he found duplicative. Now, Menendez is attempting to throw out his conviction and get a new trial because jurors were accidentally shown improper evidence while deliberating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His attorney, Adam Fee, wrote in court filings that the serious breach makes a new trial unavoidable, while federal prosecutors said its extraordinarily unlikely jurors even became aware of the incorrect exhibit versions while deliberating. However, the judge has signaled he may be disinclined to do so. On Monday, he declined to push back the New Jersey Democrats Jan. 29 sentencing ahead of the ex-lawmakers wifes trial on similar charges, which is now scheduled to begin on Feb. 5. House members Two House members, from both sides of the aisle, also faced criminal charges in 2024. Former Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) pleaded guilty in August to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, avoiding a criminal trial but ensuring some jail time. It put a bookend on his dramatic rise and fall, first flipping a New York House district from blue to red in 2022 before later being expelled from the chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santoss sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 7. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) was indicted alongside his wife in May on charges they accepted nearly $600,000 in bribes from foreign entities and laundered the funds. Cuellar has pleaded not guilty, and a trial is set for March. Trump allies A slew of Trump allies dealt with legal troubles in the last year, much of it tied to their work or connection to the president-elect. Ex-Trump White House advisers Peter Navarro and Steve Bannon served prison time after they were individually convicted for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena related to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Appeals in those cases are ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps valet, Walt Nauta, and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos de Oliveira remain on the hook in the federal classified documents case that once involved Trump. Though Trumps charges were dismissed after his election victory, Smith indicated the case would continue for his two co-defendants. In those federal cases, Trump could grant clemency to his allies. However, those facing state charges wont be so easily let off the hook. The other defendants in Trumps Georgia criminal case including ex-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Rudy Giuliani could continue facing criminal charges, depending on the outcome of Williss appeal. Several of those allies are also charged in Arizona. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Former President Jimmy Carter had a huge impact on the world, both while he was in office and when he returned to civilian life. To help get a better perspective on his impact, WSAVs Andrew Davis invited Georgia Southern University assistant professor Dr. Kimberly Martin Tecklenburg to the show. Tecklenburgs focus is Political Science and International Studies. Here, she unpacks the legacy that the 39th President leaves behind on the political scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Chicago police and U.S. Postal Service inspectors arrested a Chicago man accused of carrying out an August mail theft from a West Loop condominium, the Postal Service announced. A plainclothes postal inspector spent three days monitoring Matthew Hutcheson, 33, before arresting him Christmas Day in the Loop, according to a police report contained in court records. Hutcheson is charged with burglary and had a master key, a fake ID and debit cards not in his name on him when arrested, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He faces additional charges of resisting a police officer, possession of a fake ID and possession of burglary tools, per the postal service news release. Hutcheson was first arrested in June while driving an allegedly stolen U-Haul truck, according to a police report. Officers found burglary tools including pliers and five master keys to post boxes, several fake pieces of identification and several fake credit and debit cards on him during the June arrest, according to the report. Prosecutors charged him with possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of burglary tools and possession of fake identification. According to the postal services news release, Hutcheson didnt show up for court while on pretrial release. Judge Susana Ortiz last week ordered Hutcheson released on electronic monitoring while he awaits trial, records show. He is next set to appear in court Tuesday. DES MOINES, Iowa Two state politicians remember vividly the 1976 Iowa Caucus cycle and then candidate Jimmy Carter starting his run for the White House in the state. I was impressed, now Im young, Im very impressed as a young Democrat. Just, you know, he just had a charisma to him, said Michael Mauro, former Iowa Secretary of State. Mauro was one of Carters first caucus supporters. Believe me, when he came here that day, it was his first time here, there might have been 12 people there. How US presidents have planned their own funerals Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mauro drove Carter to the Iowa State Fairgrounds that first day he came to the state. Mauro recalled how he and Carter waited in line to buy a ticket with Mauro having a front-row ticket to the former Georgia Governor meeting Iowa voters. I never thought at that particular time at any concept that hed actually take this thing, the presidency, said Mauro. Mauro lauded how a Democrat who was not known around the country suddenly demanded a surge of media attention after his margin of victory in the 1976 Iowa Caucuses. The real backstory to this is that put Iowa on the map. From then on every four years, every time there was a caucus meeting they (candidates) flocked to Iowa. As a result of that I got to meet every other presidential candidate to come here for a while. Former Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller remembers how personable Carter was with voters. He was virtually unknown, but he came in here and met people. And you could still tell really early on that something was happening in terms of how people reacted, how he was picking up support, said Miller. he lived with a lot of people and he joked that part of the reason he did that is they, they didnt have money for hotel rooms. But the bigger reason was that he was relating to people, he was reaching out to people, he was showing that he was friendly, that he was comfortable with Iowans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Miller also gives credit to his campaigns organization with how it was set up and how it was built. Both Miller and Mauro remember Carters selfless nature and both said that is the first thing they thought of when the news of his passing was announced on Sunday afternoon. I will remember him for his decency and conviction, said Miller. You know, as a governor, as a candidate, as president and then most of all his post-presidency era where he did so many good things for so many people. What a good man. This was a humanitarian, said Mauro. Another thing that struck me was he never showed a big ego. It wasnt about President Carter. It was about him wanting to be president to do the best for the people. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. HARARE, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Southern African Development Community (SADC) on Tuesday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Mozambique to pave the way for dialogue to resolve the country's unrest. "The SADC calls upon all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that escalate violence and unrest. The SADC stresses the importance of embracing peaceful and constructive dialogue as the preferred avenue to address grievances," said Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzanian president and chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense and Security Cooperation, in a statement issued by the SADC Secretariat. The SADC Organ on Politics, Defense, and Security Cooperation, managed on a Troika basis, is responsible for promoting peace and security in the region. Zambia and Malawi currently serve alongside Tanzania as members of the SADC Organ Troika. Hassan said the regional bloc is deeply concerned by the continued loss of lives, injuries and destruction of private property and public infrastructure in Mozambique. "The current situation has also caused significant economic challenges for the nation, disrupted cross-border trade, and hindered the free movement of people," she added. Last week, Mozambique's Constitutional Council declared Daniel Chapo, the presidential candidate of the ruling party Frelimo, as the winner of the general elections held on Oct. 9. According to local media reports, more than 100 civilians have died and hundreds have been injured in the post-election chaos. Hassan said that despite a generally calm and peaceful election on Oct. 9, the post-election period has been marred by protests and violence, exacerbated by the official announcement of election results on Dec. 23. She reaffirmed the SADC's readiness to assist, through appropriate mechanisms, in facilitating a peaceful resolution to the ongoing political challenges. "Our collective aspiration remains the restoration of harmony and stability in Mozambique, aligned with our shared vision of good governance, social cohesion and sustainable development in the region," Hassan said. The SADC, a regional economic community of 16 member states, includes both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Last week, Zimbabwean President and SADC Chairperson Emmerson Mnangagwa welcomed the ruling of Mozambique's Constitutional Council. He urged all parties to respect the court's decision, stressing that it provides a constitutional path forward for Mozambique while fostering peace, normalcy and stability in the country. I remember where I was and what I was doing when news broke that Queen Elizabeth II sadly passed away. While the world reflected on the monarchs legacy, Prince Harry was completely in the dark (at least initially). Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images In a newly resurfaced excerpt from his memoir Spare, the Duke of Sussex shared his version of events leading up to his grandmothers passing. Prince Harry revealed that he tried to call Prince William when the queens health started to decline, but he couldnt get in contact with him because the Prince of Wales was already on a flight to Scotland to see Queen Elizabeth. Advertisement Advertisement Since Prince Harry chartered his own flight, he arrived several hours after the rest of the royal family. As a result, he learned of his grandmas death in the worst way possible: in the news, just like the entire world. As the plane began its descent, my phone lit up. A text from Meg. Call me the moment you get this, Prince Harry wrote. I checked the BBC website. Granny was gone. Pa was King. Julian Simmonds - WPA Pool / Getty Images In the book, Prince Harry discussed other aspects of his relationship with King Charles, including how his dad was the first person to call him a spare. The Duke of Sussex revealed the monarchs reaction to Princess Diana giving birth to a second boy after Prince William. Advertisement Advertisement According to Prince Harry, King Charles told Princess Diana, Wonderful! Now youve given me an heir and a sparemy work is done. Want all the latest royal news sent right to your inbox? Click here. Buckingham Palace Issues Surprise Health Update on Queen Camilla 2 Weeks After She Misses Kate Middleton Event NEW YORK (AP) For 16 years, a suburban New York prosecutor's office insisted it had the right man in a notorious 1996 double killing. The office tried him five times, through a series of hung juries and reversed convictions, before he was ultimately acquitted and freed in 2017. On Monday, the office's current leader, Westchester County District Attorney Mimi Rocah, said a reinvestigation identified two suspects and no connection to the man her predecessors tried and retried in the deaths of Archie Harris, 79, and home health aide Betty Ramcharan, 35. The statement appears to mark the first time that the DA's office has publicly said guilt lies with anyone other than Selwyn Days, the man jurors eventually acquitted in 2017. At the time, prosecutors said that they were disappointed in the verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days' lawyer, Glenn Garber, said Monday that it's time for his client to get vindication. He is truly innocent, and its important to fully put this matter to rest, Garber said, adding that the public also is entitled to a fair and just closure of this heinous case. Rocah took office in 2021 and didnt work in the DAs office when it prosecuted Days. She gave no details about the two people she described as involved" in the killings, saying the investigation was ongoing. Her office said the developments were so recent that there was more work to be done before any potential future steps. Rocah is out of time to do that work she leaves office this week after deciding not to run for a second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is my hope that these significant developments lead to continuing investigation and action so that justice can be achieved for the families of Mr. Harris and Ms. Ramcharan, she said in a statement Monday. Incoming DA Susan Cacace subsequently pledged to continue to review cases like this double homicide. Both she and Rocah are Democrats. Garber said he was confident Cacace's administration would go on to charge and punish those actually responsible for the killings. Harris, 79, was a recently widowed millionaire who was known around his neighborhood for bragging about keeping lots of cash at his Eastchester home and was known to police for criminal complaints from the aides who cared for him. He was facing charges of forcing one aide Days' mother to perform a sex act, and pointing a gun at a second helper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet he turned out to have left all but $19,000 of his estate to Ramcharan, making no provisions for his three children. Her portion ultimately went to his family, however, because Ramcharan died with him on Nov. 21, 1996. Over five years later, authorities charged Days. He gave police a video confession that his lawyers later argued was false and coerced. "I didnt commit this crime. I dont know who did. ... I dont know nothing about it," Days told a judge in 2004. Hung juries ended Days first and third trials. His second and fourth trials resulted in murder convictions and 50-year prison sentences. Both convictions were overturned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time he was acquitted at his fifth trial, he'd served 16 years behind bars. Rocah formed a Conviction Review Unit in 2021 to look into wrongful conviction claims. The unit began examining the Harris and Ramcharan case last year. No contact information could immediately be found Monday for Ramcharan's and Harris' relatives. (NewsNation) Veterinarians across the nation are sounding the alarm about increasing HFN1 infections in our feline friends. In late December, an Oregon house cat died after eating pet food that tested positive for bird flu, Oregon authorities said, prompting a recall of raw frozen pet food that was sold nationwide. The disease has been present in wild birds including chickens and turkeys and other animals for years, with bird flu cases confirmed in dairy cattle this past March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus has been causing sporadic, mostly mild illnesses in people in the U.S., and nearly all of those infected worked on dairy or poultry farms. When the virus is found, every bird on a farm is killed to limit the spread of the disease. AI tool helps detect heart problems before symptoms start Can pets get bird flu? How? Yes. While infections are rare, cats are susceptible to bird flu, especially if they are in contact with infected birds or products, including dairy. Cats can also be infected by exposure to people who work on farms where there is an outbreak, including their clothing and belongings, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dogs seem to be less vulnerable than cats, but they should eat only thoroughly cooked foods, Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, president-elect of the American Veterinary Medical Association, told The Associated Press. Protecting cats from bird flu The best way to keep your furry friend safe is to avoid feeding raw meat or unpasteurized dairy products to the animal. Best practice is to keep cats inside to lessen exposure to birds and other wildlife. To keep both you and your pet healthy, wash hands after handling raw meat, wildlife or your cat. Weight loss drug Zepbound approved to help sleep apnea patients Bird flu symptoms in cats In cats, bird flu presents with neurological symptoms alongside respiratory troubles, the AVMA says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look out for: Lethargy Loss of appetite Fever Tremors, seizures, blindness and ataxia Severe depression Sneezing or coughing If you suspect your pet has bird flu, immediately call your vet and separate the pet from immunocompromised family members or animals. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (WHTM) State Police were led on a pursuit on I-81 by thieves in a stolen Dodge Charger Hellcat from a Franklin County dealership earlier in December, Troopers report. The vehicle was stolen from Fitzgerald Toyota, located along Lincoln Way E, before the chase on Dec. 4, according to a news release from State Police at Chambersburg. Cement goose dressed in Pittsburgh Steelers gear stolen out of Franklin County yard; PSP investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the suspects got to the dealership, which was around 12:15 a.m., they searched the lot for vehicles to steal. Troopers stated there were two alleged thieves dressed in all black, who were able to get into an orange Dodge Charger and tried to steal it but didnt. They then went to a Hellcat, broke the rear passenger window and then drove it off the lot, Troopers report. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter The stolen Hellcat was spotted traveling south on I-81 by Troopers who tried to perform a traffic stop, but instead were led on a pursuit, which was ended after the stolen vehicle crossed into Maryland, State Police say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation is ongoing. If anyone has any information they are asked to contact PSP Chambersburg at (717) 264-5161 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. A wake will be held this weekend following the sudden deaths of a Rutland firefighters beloved wife and their newborn twins. Firefighter Patrick Sullivans 30-year-old wife, Ciara, and their 11-day-old twins, James and Elizabeth, passed away quietly and peacefully after the pregnant mother suffered a severe medical emergency, officials announced over the weekend. In a post on New Years Eve, the Rutland Regional Emergency Communication Center said a wake for Ciara, James, and Elizabeth is planned for Saturday, Jan. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A public walk-through is slated for 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Miles Funeral Home at 1158 Main Street in Holden. There will be a uniformed public safety walk-through at 1:00 p.m. Those wishing to attend the public safety walk-through should meet at 12 p.m. at Wachusett Regional High School, where awaiting buses will transport participants to the funeral home at 12:45 p.m., according to the Rutland RECC. Thank you for your support during this difficult time, the Rutland RECC said in the post. Over the weekend, the Rutland RECC said in a post, Words cannot express the total devastation and unimaginable loss this tragedy has brought. Please keep Pat in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult timehe needs all the strength and support we can give him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ciara suffered a medical emergency on Tuesday, December 17, just hours before she was to deliver her babies. She was rushed to Memorial Medical Center in Worcester and intubated. Patrick and Ciaras twin babies were delivered prematurely via emergency C-section and put on ventilators. Patrick Sullivan spoke with Boston 25 on Thursday night from the hospital and said, The prognosis is not good...Im devastated and furious this is happening. In an update shared early Saturday on Facebook, Patrick wrote, I cant explain the total and utter devastation, anger, rage, and loss I feel that this unnecessary tragedy has brought me. Rutland first responders and residents gathered at a vigil in the towns community park last week to pray for the Sullivan family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patricks colleagues were some of the first responders to Ciaras 911 call. It broke my heart to hear my fellow firefighter crying and yelling while his wife was lying on the front steps, one colleague explained. Patrick currently serves as a town firefighter and worked as a 911 dispatch supervisor for more than 13 years. The Rutland Fire Department remembered Ciara as a dedicated public servant who previously worked as a 911 dispatcher and an emergency management specialist for FEMA. The Sullivan family would like to express their deepest, heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and generosity during this difficult time, the department added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A fund set up to support the Sullivan family has raised nearly $145,000. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A massive blackout in Puerto Rico left more than 1.3 million power-company customers in the dark. The power company, Luma Energy, said restoring power could take up to 48 hours. It said the outage appeared to have been caused by the failure of an underground power line. A massive blackout hit Puerto Rico early Tuesday and it could take days to restore power. The outage, which happened around dawn, initially left nearly 90% of the private power company Luma Energy's 1.47 million customers without power, the company told The Associated Press. Luma, in a statement, called the blackout island-wide. It said the issue appeared to have stemmed from the failure of an underground cable, though it also said the cause was still under investigation. The utility said that fully restoring power could take 24 to 48 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On social media, Luma said it had begun restoring power in phases. The utility said that by 11 a.m. local time it had restored power to the Municipal Hospital of San Juan, among other locations. It said that as of 1 p.m., it had restored power to 44,700 customers, or about 3% of its customers without power. And by 3 p.m., it said it had restored power to more than 73,000 customers. As of Tuesday afternoon, at least 1.1 million customers remained without power throughout the US island territory. "Luma teams remain focused on the complex process of restoring service to all affected customers," the company said in a translated statement. A bus stops in San Juan, where the streets were dark because of a power outage on Tuesday. RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images Puerto Rico has for years dealt with a sometimes rickety power system, highlighted in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Fiona in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luma is in charge of distributing energy across the island, while a company called Genera PR provides the power. The New York Times said both had been under scrutiny because of the territory's frequent outages. Ryan Pamplin, the CEO and cofounder of BlendJet who's based in Dorado, Puerto Rico, told Business Insider that Tuesday's blackout was "definitely the worst that I've seen in four years of living here." "I've never seen even during a hurricane I've never seen the entire island lose power," he said. Pamplin said power wasn't the only problem during a blackout. He said water pressure in Puerto Rico is typically low, and pumps are used to help increase it but when the power goes out, so do the pumps. He said he'd never seen the water pressure in Dorado drop so low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that there was no water coming out of his faucets on Tuesday and that only one of his toilets was sort of flushing. Buildings throughout Puerto Rico, like those in San Juan, were without power on Tuesday. RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images In a statement posted on Facebook, translated by the Times, Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said, "We are demanding answers." He said the two power companies "must expedite the restart of the generating units outside the fault area and keep the people duly informed about the measures they are taking to restore service throughout the island." The widespread outage comes as the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, or PREPA, has been trying to restructure its debt, which the AP said stood at more than $9 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Cuomo, the former governor of New York, argued on X that the federal government needed to step up and "end this cycle of insanity" as the island grapples with its unreliable electric grid. A report from the Center for Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies at the City University of New York said more than 1.1 million Puerto Ricans lived in the New York metropolitan area in 2022. Puerto Ricans have been treated as second class citizens for far too long. The fact that, as Americans, they dont have a reliable electric grid and suffer sporadic blackouts on a continuous basis is indefensible and would not be tolerated anywhere else in the United States. https://t.co/Vw7asn7s04 Andrew Cuomo (@andrewcuomo) December 31, 2024 Pablo Jose Hernandez Rivera, the incoming resident commissioner of Puerto Rico the territory's nonvoting member of the House of Representatives said in a statement that he'd alerted federal officials to the urgency of Tuesday's situation. "Once sworn in, I will collaborate closely with Congressional leaders and the incoming administrations in Puerto Rico and the United States to deliver real, lasting solutions," he said. "Our people deserve reliable energy and a brighter future we will not settle for less." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor-elect of Puerto Rico, Jenniffer Gonzalez, who's set to be sworn in on Thursday, also highlighted the territory's ailing power grid on social media. "We can't keep relying on an energy system that fails our people," Gonzalez said on X. "Today's blackout and the uncertainty around restoration continue to impact our economy and quality of life." She said that stabilizing Puerto Rico's energy grid would be her top priority when she takes office. Read the original article on Business Insider Pullman, Washington, Police Chief Jake Opgenorth is accused of domestic violence and sexual assault by a woman who claimed in a protective order petition filed this month that she had been involved in a relationship with him. The protective order petition, filed in Whitman County court, was brought against Opgenorth on Dec. 20 by the woman who had worked with Opgenorth on the Pullman Police Advisory Committee. The Spokesman-Review does not name potential victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Multiple messages seeking comment that were received Monday by a law firm designated to answer questions relating to Opgenorths status have not been returned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman requested a domestic violence protection order and wrote sexual assault as an additional protection order, court records show. She indicated that the two had been in a relationship or are currently in a relationship, but never lived together. Social media indicates that Opgenorth was married around 2015. Court records also show Opgenorth was ordered to surrender his personal and department-issued firearms. He is on administrative leave from the police department. The rest of the record is sealed. The Washington State Patrol is conducting an investigation, but has not disclosed details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Loftus, communications director for the WSP, said last week that the agency is asked to investigate either at the request of the governors office or local law enforcement to quell concerns regarding possible interagency bias. Opgenorth has been placed on administrative leave by the Pullman Police Department , KREM2 reported. Pullman Police Commander Aaron Breshears has directed all questions to the law firm. Opgenorth began his law enforcement career in Pullman in 1992, according to his biography on the police departments website. He became police chief in 2022. Pullman Mayor Francis Benjamin declined to comment Monday. Pullman is home to Washington State University, located about 15 miles west of the University of Idaho in Moscow. JAKARTA, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Mount Ibu, located in Indonesia's North Maluku province, erupted earlier on Tuesday, prompting an aviation warning, the country's Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center reported. The biggest eruption occurred at 5:18 a.m. local time, sending a column of ash up to three km into the sky. The thick grey cloud drifted southeast and east of the volcano. Residents living near the slopes of the mountain are prohibited from engaging in any activities within a four-km radius of the crater, which extends to 5.5 km in the northern areas. The center recommends that residents wear facemasks, sunglasses, and nose protectors when engaging in outdoor activities during volcanic ash fall. Mount Ibu, situated in West Halmahera Regency, is currently at the second-highest alert level. To mitigate the risks posed by volcanic ash to aviation, an orange level of the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued, restricting flights at altitudes within five km of the volcano. Planes should also be prepared for potential ash clouds, which can disrupt air travel. Standing at 1,325 meters high, Mount Ibu is one of Indonesia's 127 active volcanoes. Justin Mutawassims dream of becoming a pilot took flight 22 years ago when, at age 5, he stepped on a plane for the first time during a family trip to Disney World. I just had a fascination with the airplane itself and how it flew, Mutawassim recalled in a recent phone interview. That fascination took hold. Today, the Atlanta resident is a pilot for Delta Air Lines, a career opportunity that has elevated his economic prospects. At 27, he says hes on track to make about $500,000 this year. Its a big take for a relatively young pilot, but Delta isnt only paying him to fly. The company also pays Mutawassim to support some of its pilot recruiting initiatives, including its Propel Pilot Career Path Program and its partnership with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, an advocacy group working to increase minority participation in the industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I work quite a bit, Mutawassim said. Mutawassims high-flying career highlights one of his industrys biggest challenges and a potentially huge opportunity for workers looking to expand their options. As many of his fellow Black Georgians search for better-paying jobs to keep up with the rising cost of living, airlines are working to hire more people of color in high-paying aviation careers, including mechanics, air traffic controllers, and especially pilots. The Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden in May, is expected to provide a major funding boost to the industrys diversity efforts. The law appropriates $105 billion to fund the FAA through 2028, including $240 million to promote flight deck diversity by lowering the high cost of flight training and expanding the pool of prospective candidates. The bill originally set aside $120 million to fund diversity efforts, but Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Georgia, said he successfully pushed to double that figure earlier this year. Warnock said the airline industrys push for more pilots of color is especially needed in his home state, which is home to the worlds busiest airport as well as many Black Georgians seeking better-paying career opportunities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a lot of good-paying jobs in the aviation space and I want to make sure that were tapping into all of our talents all over our state, Warnock told Capital B Atlanta. Were not going to have enough people working in that space if we dont increase diversity, which is why I have language in the bill that enables that to happen. The need for more Black pilots The airline industrys need and the opportunity for those in need of a career boost is propelled by demographic trends and federal rules. Thousands of Baby Boomer and Gen X pilots are expected to retire soon if they havent already because of federal safety regulations requiring pilots employed by airlines to retire by the age of 65. That mandate, the high cost of training, and a dearth of pilots exiting the military have contributed to a commercial airline pilot shortage coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, which left an estimated 400,000 airline workers laid off, furloughed, or at risk of losing their jobs. Tapping into the Black labor pool, which is underrepresented in the aviation industry, is one way to help fill that gap. Black Americans made up fewer than 4% of pilots in 2023 despite making up nearly 14% of the U.S. population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Filling that need could be transformative for workers. The median household income for Black families in Atlanta is about $28,000, according to the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, a nonprofit group whose mission is to build Black wealth in the metro area and across the South. Meanwhile, airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers earned a median annual wage of more than $219,000 in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median income for air traffic controllers was $137,000 last year. Airline mechanics earned about $75,000 annually. Barriers to entry in aviation Its unclear when the FAA will begin accepting applications for diversity recruitment program funding. The agency declined to say when and how the money will be distributed or whats needed for applicants to qualify. We will comply with the requirements of the Reauthorization Act and we will keep you apprised of our progress, the FAA told Capital B Atlanta via email. But aviation instructors like Omar Brock plan to apply when the time comes. The 35-year-old Brock is an Atlanta native, a Middle Georgia State University graduate, and a flight instructor who created the Brock Foundation in 2020 to help propel diversity in aviation. Brocks nonprofit is one of many similar organizations that partners with local school districts to introduce students to the aviation sector at a young age. Atlanta pilot and flight instructor Omar Brock (right) is pictured in the cockpit of a plane with participants in the Brock Foundations annual Gift of Flight event in June 2022 in Anniston, Alabama. (Courtesy of Omar Brock) Brock says many Black kids dont consider aviation careers because theyre never exposed to them when theyre young. Programs like his, which partners with schools in Morrow and others in Clayton County, help make that connection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have to see it before the dream materializes, Brock told Capital B Atlanta of the students he and his volunteer pilots help mentor. Those made aware of the benefits cant always afford the cost. Pilot training at ATP Flight School, a local program that partners with Deltas Propel program, can cost just shy of $109,000. Propel also partners with multiple other schools, including Middle Georgia State University and Elizabeth City State University, a historically Black college in North Carolina. Brock said not all school districts have the resources to pay for students to take flight training classes, but he believes the FAA Reauthorization Act can help change that. Always having funding in place to meet your goals and your aspirations is important for a smaller nonprofit like [mine], he said. If I can stand on my own two feet and have funding in place to equip the students in terms of paying for their training and making sure that they have everything that they need, then its a no-brainer for me. Brock graduated from Middle Georgia State Universitys School of Aviation in Eastman, where minority student enrollment has surged from less than 10% in 2014 to an estimated 38% this year, according to Adon Clark, the schools dean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark said his schools Black enrollment is higher than others due in part to its more affordable tuition costs and its efforts to improve diversity since he became dean in 2014. He estimates the total cost of training to become a commercial airline pilot to be about $96,000 at MGA. MGAs outreach efforts include recruiting students from Georgia high schools and colleges, hosting an aviation summer camp for middle-school kids, and working with groups like the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals. Now that theres a shortage, theres a lot more information out there about the jobs, Clark said. And the industry also recognizes the need to diversify the workforce. The post The Push For More Black Pilots Gets Federal Funding Boost appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. Russian President Vladimir Putin traveled extensively this year, despite being sanctioned by the West. His meetings were mostly in Russia or Asia. The International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest. But ICC member Mongolia did not arrest Putin, citing its reliance on Russian energy. Russian President Vladimir Putin was a social butterfly this year, traveling to various countries and meeting foreign dignitaries at home even though he is heavily sanctioned. The Russian leader started the year mostly in his country ahead of the presidential election in March in which he won by a landslide. Soon after, Putin started traveling and hobnobbing with dignitaries, primarily at home and also in Asia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In all, Putin took 11 international trips this year, according to TASS state news agency. Since Putin is wanted by the International Criminal Court, his travel was still limited but some world leaders came to him instead. He took part in over 220 events with 54 world leaders, per TASS. In July, Putin met Indonesia's then-President-elect Prabowo Subianto, who was visiting in his capacity as defense minister. Prabowo described Russia "as a real friend" during his visit with the Russian leader. In September, Putin met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of an economic forum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, Putin hosted the BRICS summit involving a group of major emerging economies, where he met a number of world leaders including Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Away from home, here's who Putin met and what he did. Putting on a full bromance display with Xi in May The first notable person Putin met this year was Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The Russian leader traveled to Beijing to meet his Chinese counterpart. Xi rolled out the red carpet for Putin in Beijing with a show of pomp and pageantry featuring a marching band, a guard of honor, a 21-gun salute on Tiananmen Square, and flag-waving children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin was also treated to a banquet featuring delicacies like Peking Duck, sea cucumber, and sea bass in shrimp cream. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and China's President Xi Jinping. Sergei Bobylev/Pool/AFP/\Getty Images For Xi, Russia is a strategic partner against Western dominance. For Putin, the Chinese connection is more than geopolitics. China has been a closing trade partner of Russia even before the invasion of Ukraine, and ties between the two have only gotten tighter since the war started. Since the EU's sweeping sanctions against Russia, Moscow has steered the country's trade especially in oil eastward, particularly to China and India. Trade between Russia and China hit a record $240 billion in 2023, a 26% jump from 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin followed his international itinerary by visiting the former Soviet republics of Belarus and Uzbekistan in the same month. North Korea In June, Putin made his way to Pyongyang, where he spent a day cozying up to North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. The last time the Russian leader visited the isolated nation was in 2000. Kim showered Putin with presents, a welcoming ceremony involving a large crowd, a banquet, and a concert. Among the gifts Kim gave Putin were what appears to be a portrait of the Russian leader, a bust bearing Putin's likeness, a Russian-made Aurus limousine, several white horses, and a pair of Pungsan hunting dogs for the avid hunter. Putin observes the dogs gifted by Kim. North Korean State Media Vietnam In June, Putin visited Vietnam, a supply chain hot spot for many multinational companies diversifying their operations outside China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US embassy in Vietnam issued sharp criticism of the visit, saying that "no country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities." During his visit, Putin was gifted with an installation art performance featuring a sculpture of "whinnying war horse, galloping majestically under the canopy of a birch forest," according to information from a Vietnamese government website. The late Vietnamese leader Nguyen Phu Trong, who died the following month, presented Putin with the gift, which was accompanied by a light show. The light show featured images of a young Putin and the Russian leader today. It's unclear if Putin took the sculpture home with him. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Vietnam's President To Lam. Kristina Kormilitsyna/Sputnik/Kremlin/Reuters Mongolia In the second half of the year, Putin visited several Central Asian countries, including the former Soviet republics of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also went to Kazakhstan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. Among Putin's trips in the later part of the year, his September visit to Mongolia raised eyebrows. Russia's President Vladimir Putin met Mongolia's President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh in September. Mongolia did not arrest Putin even though the country is a ICC member. Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Pool/AFP/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mongolia is a member of the International Criminal Court, so it is supposed to enforce the organization's arrest warrant for Putin. But that didn't happen. Instead, Mongolia gave Putin a lavish welcome and the Russian leader left a free man. Mongolia explained that Russia is too important for its energy security. "Mongolia imports 95% of its petroleum products and over 20% of electricity from our immediate neighborhood, which has previously suffered interruption for technical reasons. This supply is critical to ensure our existence and that of our people," a Mongolian spokesperson told Politico. Read the original article on Business Insider The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has said that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is ignoring efforts to soften the economic pressure on Russia and workforce deficits in the country, instead prioritising Russias "force generation requirements" and domestic political stability. Source: ISW Quote from the ISW: "The Kremlin appears to be prioritising Russia's force generation requirements and domestic political stability over efforts to mitigate economic pressure and labour shortages going into 2025." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: According to the ISW, Putin signed a decree on 30 December stating that migrants who entered Russia illegally must apply for legal status or leave Russia by 30 April 2025. Migrants can obtain legal status by submitting to a series of health screenings, sitting a Russian language, history and legal exam, and paying off all their debts or by signing a military service contract with the Russian Ministry of Defence. Quote from the ISW: "Russia is reportedly suffering a labour shortage of 1.5 million people, and Putin's decree will likely further exacerbate Russia's ongoing labour shortages if a significant number of migrants who work in food service, transportation, and other low-skilled industries either leave Russia or forcibly join the Russian military." Details: The ISW reported that it remains unclear whether Russian authorities will enforce this decree, although whether they do so will likely indicate how Russian authorities are prioritising responding to political, force generation, and economic labour market challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the ISW, a decision to enforce Putins decree and begin deporting migrants would indicate that Russian authorities are prioritising placating Russian pro-war ultra-nationalists and addressing possible regime security issues associated with ongoing reports of migrants committing crimes and terrorist acts in Russia over addressing Russia's economic issues. A decision not to enforce the decree would suggest that Russian authorities are prioritising utilising migrant labour to overcome Russia's economic issues and labour shortages over pandering to the Kremlin's ultranationalist constituency. ISW Key Takeaways from 30 December: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Russia's demand that Ukraine renounce its right to sovereignty and territorial integrity as a precondition to start peace talks, indicating that Russia is not interested in good faith negotiations. The Kremlin appears to be prioritising Russia's force generation requirements and domestic political stability over efforts to mitigate economic pressure and labour shortages going into 2025. US President Joe Biden announced an additional military aid package for Ukraine worth US$2.5 billion on 30 December. Russia and Ukraine conducted one of the largest prisoners of war (POW) exchanges in 2024 on 30 December, resulting in the return of 189 Ukrainian POWs some of whom had spent over two years in Russian captivity since early 2022. Russian border guards withdrew from the Agarak border checkpoint on the Armenia-Iran border on 30 December after controlling the checkpoint for over 30 years. Ukrainian forces recently regained lost positions near Chasiv Yar, Toretsk and Pokrovsk. Russian forces recently advanced in Kursk Oblast and near Toretsk, Pokrovsk, Kurakhove, Vuhledar and Velyka Novosilka. Support UP or become our patron! A cat found in Thurmont tested positive for rabies, according to the Frederick County Health Department. Frederick County Animal Control received the cat on Dec. 25. It was picked up on East Moser Road. The animal was euthanized because of unexplained wounds and showed multiple symptoms of rabies infection, according to a Health Department press release. The release described the cat as an adult, tortoiseshell domestic shorthair female, approximately 2 or 3 years old, without a collar and without an ear tip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was the fourth cat to test positive for rabies in Frederick County in 2024, according to Health Department spokesperson Brandon Alter. Alter wrote in an email that 34 animals have tested positive for rabies in the county this year. Rabies is a viral disease that affects mammals including humans, pets and livestock. The disease spreads via saliva, most often through bites, scratches or direct contact with the eyes, mouth or open wounds, according to the World Health Organization. The WHO says that once clinical symptoms appear, the viral disease is almost 100% fatal if no post-exposure treatment was administered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Health Department recommends that anyone who might have had contact with the cat between Dec. 11 and Wednesday should notify the Community Health Services Office at 301-600-3342. If pets or livestock might have had an interaction with the cat, the Health Department recommends consulting with a veterinarian and notifying the Environmental Health Office at 301-600-1717. Dec. 30 (UPI) -- New Year's Eve revelers, especially those in New York City, can expect to get wet as rain and above-average temperatures are forecast throughout the United States on Tuesday night when the world rings in 2025. In New York's Times Square, which is expecting an estimated one million party-goers, the forecast calls for rain, thunder and gusty winds before the ball drops at midnight, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. "A dry morning and afternoon is expected across the area on New Year's Eve, with highs in the low 50s for most," the National Weather Service New York wrote Monday in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Rain showers are expected to move through the area late in the evening and overnight. The showers could be heavy at times, with the potential for isolated thunder," NWS warned. The Waterford Crystal New Year's Eve ball lights up Sunday above Times Square in New York City, where an estimated one million people will gather on New Year's Eve. Forecasters are warning revelers to prepare for soaking rain and warmer-than-normal temperatures. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI A dry morning and afternoon is expected across the area on New Year's Eve, with highs in the low 50s for most. Rain showers are expected to move through the area late in the evening and overnight. The showers can be heavy at times, with the potential for isolated thunder. pic.twitter.com/iCA817H1Wr NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) December 31, 2024 Since umbrellas are not allowed in Times Square on New Year's Eve, revelers are advised to wear ponchos to avoid getting soaked. Revelers react as confetti is tossed in the air as part of the annual New Year's Eve Confetti Test in Times Square in New York City on Sunday. An estimated one million people will gather in Times Square on New Year's Eve and over one billion around the world will watch as the traditional Waterford Crystal ball drops to ring in 2025. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI The same system that brought some snow to the upper Plains will move into the Ohio River Valley and Great Lakes states on Tuesday, but will remain too warm for snow which is forecast to turn into a sloppy rain-snow mix. On New Year's Day, the fast-moving system will bring rain to New York City and gusty winds to New England by the afternoon. Press and content creators gather around the Waterford Crystal New Year's Eve ball when it is lit up Friday at One Times Square in New York City. CleanBoss co-founders Joy Mangano and Pitbull joined the co-organizers of Times Square New Year's Eve to help install newly designed Crystal Triangles on the New Year's Eve Ball just days before the iconic celebration. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI Those traveling by plane on New Year's Day can expect a bumpy ride in and out of Boston's Logan International Airport and O'Hare in Chicago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A separate system approaching the Pacific Northwest will also bring strong winds to Washington and into Nevada, where heavy rain and high elevation snow is expected. The giant, seven-foot-tall numerals for "2025" are illuminated on Dec. 18, after arriving in Times Square eleven days before the highly anticipated Times Square New Year's Eve celebrations in New York City. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southern California is facing a new round of Santa Ana winds, which has the National Weather Service in Los Angeles warning of "extreme fire" risks for New Year's Eve, especially with fireworks. Santa Ana winds fueled Malibu's Franklin Fire earlier this month, which forced more than 20,000 people from their homes. "Practice fire safety on New Years! Offshore winds will bring elevated to critical fire weather conditions to parts of Ventura and LA County for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day," NWS Los Angeles warned in a post on X. "Instead of using fireworks, use fire-safe alternatives like confetti and streamers to celebrate." Looking for a place to recycle your Christmas tree? Vermonts Drift Dusters Snowmobile Club is looking for trees to help fix their local trails. These donated trees will be used to close gaps and holes along the trail. According to the Drift Dusters, recycled trees naturally decompose into the environment leaving little to no trace behind. Anyone can drop off a tree at these locations: 118 Fish and Game Rd, Derby Near Trail 105 at the Valley Rd, Holland Near trail 105 A at the end of South Shore Road, Holland All ornaments must be removed before a tree can be recycled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. HONOLULU (KHON2) The new year begins with fireworks and the tradition of eating red fish for good luck. This year, a stable ahi supply and prices make it easier to savor this symbol of prosperity. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news If ringing in the new year means red fish on the table, youre in luck. The boats have been landing 20,000 pounds, five or six boats or more, eight boats today, over 100,000 pounds over the last two weeks, said Eric Kingma, executive director of the Hawaii Longline Association. The auction started offloading at midnight, so this industry grinds to produce this high-quality fish for Hawaii. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its seen better days, Moiliili retail space getting much-needed makeover Favorable conditions resulted in an abundant haul of yellowfin and bluefin tuna this year. Its going to be a heavy supply, it should be enough to support the demand for this coming New Year, said Mike Goto, Vice President of the Hawaii Fish Auction. The good news is, with a healthy supply of fish this year, prices should remain comparable to last years prices Guy Tamashiro of Tamashiro Market said hes happy with the haul hes seeing, but hed like an even bigger selection of fish, after having to fight for some of the best of the best in the catch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres so few, so if I want em I gotta pay the price otherwise Im gonna lose it to someone else, and I want our customers to have it, said Tamashiro. But at Tamashiro Market, prices range from $10 a pound to over $40 a pound, similar to last year. The bluefin were selling at $42.95 and thats for the belly quarter and the back quarter is about $39.95, said Tamashiro, who explains bluefin tuna is often the fattier of the fish. My costs are the same. This week and last week my labor costs are way up but were just holding it the same. Weve got some toro, some premium and some salmon and getting the hamachi, said Phillip Miyoshi, who was standing in line with an armful of fish. He explained his hefty purchase, yeah, well, Im feeding two families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check out more news from around Hawaii At least for customers who said ahi is a must-have for the New Year, its the price you pay. Thats the way it is in Hawaii, right? Come and get it for New Years Eve, trying to get here a day earlier before the crowd really comes tomorrow, right? said Miyoshi. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Public Utilities Commissioner Kristie Fiegen participates in an election forum on Sept. 19, 2024, at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) A trust controlled by a South Dakota regulators relatives still owns land along a proposed pipeline route, but the regulator has not recused herself from the projects second permit application after recusing herself from the first one. Two years ago, Public Utilities Commissioner Kristie Fiegen disqualified herself from Summit Carbon Solutions first carbon dioxide pipeline application. She cited state law prohibiting commissioners from participating in hearings or proceedings when they have a conflict of interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fiegen wrote a recusal letter in February 2022 that said the pipeline would cross land owned by my sister-in-law (my husbands sister) and her husband. Gov. Kristi Noem assigned State Treasurer Josh Haeder to fill in for Fiegen. In September 2023, Haeder and the other two commissioners rejected Summits initial application, citing the pipeline routes conflicts with several county ordinances that mandate minimum distances between pipelines and existing features. Summit reapplied in November 2024 with an adjusted route. Fiegen has not filed a recusal letter in the new application docket, and she participated in a procedural hearing about the application on Dec. 17. Fiegen did not respond to questions from South Dakota Searchlight about her participation in the new docket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public Utilities Commission spokesperson Leah Mohr said ex parte rules bar Fiegen from discussing the matter. Those rules prohibit direct communication with commissioners about dockets theyre considering. Mohr also declined to discuss the matter, and declined to discuss how conflicts of interest are defined for commissioners. The Attorney Generals Office declined to say whether Fiegens participation complies with state law, or whether she sought the offices legal advice. Defining a conflict of interest The chapter of state law Fiegen cited in her 2022 recusal is specific to public utilities commissioners, and it leaves conflicts of interest undefined. It merely says if a commissioner determines that the commissioner has a conflict, the commissioner should file a recusal letter. Meanwhile, a 2016 law required the state Board of Internal Control to create a conflict-of-interest policy for use by state agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy says officials involved in quasi-judicial actions such as reviewing a permit application must be disinterested and free from actual bias or an unacceptable risk of actual bias and must abstain if a reasonably-minded person could conclude they are not impartial. Land owned by Fiegens relatives The $9 billion Summit pipeline would span five states, transporting some of the CO2 captured from the production processes at 57 ethanol plants to underground injection sites in North Dakota. The project would capitalize on federal tax credits that incentivize the prevention of heat-trapping carbon emissions. The originally proposed pipeline route would have crossed three parcels of land in Minnehaha County owned by Fiegens sister-in-law, Jean Fiegen-Ordal, and Fiegen-Ordals husband, Jeffrey Ordal, plus another three parcels of land in McCook County owned by the Jeffrey A. Ordal Living Trust, for which the couple serves as trustees. Summit said it paid $175,000 in total compensation for easements and future crop damages on the land owned by the Ordals or their trust. An easement is an agreement granting access to land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Summit said $88,000 of the money went to the Ordals. The company did not disclose further details, but public records show the Ordals completed a sale of their Minnehaha County land several months after signing the easement documents in 2022. The new pipeline route would cross the same parcels of land: the Minnehaha County land that Fiegens relatives no longer own, and the McCook County land that the Ordal trust still owns. South Dakota Searchlight is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. South Dakota Searchlight maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Seth Tupper for questions: info@southdakotasearchlight.com. A former Foreign Office official has urged Sir Keir Starmer to reject demands from Mauritius for more money in talks over the Chagos Islands. Simon McDonald, who advised foreign ministers for five years under the Tories, warned the Government not to agree to hand over what has been called crazy money to get a deal done before Donald Trump returns to the White House. Mauritius is reportedly asking for 800 million per year and billions of pounds in reparations to secure a major US-UK airbase on Diego Garcia when it takes control of the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK Government has said it will provide a package of financial support to Mauritius as part of the deal, but so far has refused to say how much it has offered to guarantee the future of the base. It has been claimed Mauritius is asking for crazy money, with a source telling The Sunday Times: They were talking 800 million a year for as long as we wanted to keep the base there, plus billions of pounds in reparations. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the new prime minister of Mauritius, has been said to be asking for crazy money - John Marshall Mantel/AP Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme on Tuesday, Lord McDonald urged ministers in the UK not to accept calls for a costly settlement from Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the new Mauritian prime minister. He said: I think, bluntly, that the Mauritian government is overplaying its hand. It is not at all unusual for a new government to come in and look at what its predecessor has done and think we could do better. And that was the spirit of the initial exchanges between London and Port Louis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the new government is not looking to tweak the agreement, as far as I can see, but to ask for many multiples more pounds or dollars from the UK. And it feels to me they are overdoing it and they will not succeed. Asked what he would say to ministers, Lord McDonald said: I would advise to keep negotiating, but basically not to accept this number. Mr Ramgoolam is new in office. He is not the only new factor on the horizon. The other is President Trump. Its three weeks until the inauguration. If he thinks its going to get easier when we have a new president in the Oval Office, he doesnt have long to wait to be disabused. There is growing speculation that the Chagos agreement will be ended by Donald Trump when he takes office next month - US Navy The reports threaten to further rattle the deal struck by Labour earlier this year to hand the islands to Mauritius. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is growing speculation that the agreement will be ended by Mr Trump when he takes office next month, with Sir Keir keen to sign off the legal text of the treaty enforcing it before the presidential inauguration on Jan 20. The document will have to be ratified by the UK Parliament after Mr Trump returns to the White House, although Labours vast Commons majority should see it pass comfortably. The deal to give the islands to Mauritius quickly hit a major hurdle after the countrys government changed and Mr Ramgoolam, the new leader, called for renegotiations. At the time, No 10 did not shut down suggestions that the UK could offer Mauritius more money as part of a push to get the agreement done. Lord McDonald is supportive of the decision to hand the islands to Mauritius, but warned that the country could end up with nothing if it asks for too much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: This base is very, very important, much more important for the United States, frankly, than the United Kingdom. If there is no agreement, this will linger, maybe for many more years. And if it lingers, that means Mauritius will get nothing. So if I were advising Mauritians, I would say use the next three weeks wisely. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Amanda Zurawski, Josh Zurawski, Kaitlyn Joshua and Hadley Duvall speak at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Ill., on Aug. 19, 2024. (Photo by Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance) Galvanized by a pivotal election almost two years after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion protections, patients, doctors, and activists in 2024 fought for renewed and expanded reproductive rights, while others pushed for more restrictions. These are some of the people and organizations that impacted reproductive health law and abortion access this year. Women with wanted pregnancies affected by abortion bans In state legislatures, before Congress, in court, in presidential campaign ads, and on stage at the Democratic National Convention, women all over the country have been reliving some of the worst moments of their lives in an effort to roll back abortion restrictions that have changed reproductive health care in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The year after Kentucky banned abortion, Hadley Duvall started talking publicly about how she was raped at 12 by her stepdad, who got her pregnant. She advocated for abortion rights in re-election campaign ads for Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear in 2023 and this year appeared in national campaign ads for Democrats. Kaitlyn Joshua, of Baton Rouge, represented many Louisiana women at this years Democratic National Convention, telling whats becoming an increasingly common story of not being able to access miscarriage treatment after the state passed a strict abortion ban. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill subsequently challenged Joshuas story on social media. Kristin Lyerly, an OB-GYN from Wisconsin, is one of many doctors across the country who have sued over state abortion bans they say have changed medical practice. Lyerly this year participated in a civic engagement experiment in Madison, where strangers came together and shared the life experiences that inform their abortion views. Even when abortion rights were protected under Roe v. Wade, Lyerly said she was almost forced to give birth to a stillborn, in lieu of a less invasive abortion procedure. She also ran a reproductive-rights-focused campaign as a Democrat in a conservative-leaning congressional district, a race she lost. Allie Phillips ran as a Democrat for a seat in the Tennessee legislature after the states abortion ban kept her from terminating a nonviable pregnancy in her home state, leading her to travel to New York City for care. She lost the race but said in November that she plans to continue fighting for reproductive rights, and announced her new pregnancy. Phillips is a plaintiff in an ongoing lawsuit with other affected women and physicians to clarify the states medical health exceptions. A three-judge panel ruled in October that doctors cannot be penalized for performing an emergency abortion to save a patients life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amanda Zurawski developed sepsis in Texas after her water broke at 18 weeks and doctors waited for days to terminate her pregnancy, fearing prosecution under the states strict abortion ban. Shes since become an outspoken abortion-rights advocate. She campaigned heavily for abortion-rights candidates this year and said she wants to continue working in politics. The Charlotte Lozier Institute The high-profile federal lawsuit over medication abortion was made possible in part by the Charlotte Lozier Institute, the research arm of the anti-abortion political powerhouse Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. Data from the institute featured prominently in the plaintiffs case for revoking the federal drug approval of mifepristone and was directly used as part of U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryks reasoning for granting the doctor-plaintiffs standing. The researchers found a significant jump in Medicaid-funded emergency room visits following a medication abortion over two decades, which also corresponds with an increase in access to medication abortion overtime. Public health experts told States Newsroom that the researchers inflated their findings, and appeared to conflate all emergency department visits with serious adverse events like sepsis. Their conclusions contradicted a large body of research showing a low rate of serious adverse events after taking mifepristone, prompting further scrutiny from curious scientists, as well as the academic publishing house that published it. In February, Sage retracted three studies produced by Charlotte Lozier researchers and published in the journal Health Services Research and Managerial Epidemiology between 2019 and 2022, after a reader-prompted investigation found flaws in the studies methodology and data representation. The team behind the studies included Charlotte Lozier vice president and director of data analytics James Studnicki and longtime anti-abortion researchers, including the then-CEO of one of the plaintiff groups in the medication abortion lawsuit. They sued Sage, saying the retractions were unjustified and politically motivated. The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejected the abortion medication lawsuit this past summer not on the merits of the case, but on the issue of the doctor-plaintiffs standing. Anti-abortion activists vowed to find a different plaintiff who could potentially persuade the court that abortion pills are too dangerous. After the Supreme Court remanded the case to the lower court, in October, intervening states Idaho, Kansas and Missouri amended their complaint, which no longer cites the retracted studies papers but instead cites a new paper from Studnicki and fellow Charlotte Lozier researchers, making similar claims. The Alabama Supreme Court A common fertility treatment, in vitro fertilization, was thrust into the national spotlight in February after the Alabama Supreme Court decided, 8-1, that frozen embryos should be considered children, in a wrongful death lawsuit over the embryos accidental destruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lower court had dismissed the claim, ruling that embryos do not meet the legal definition of children. But in the majority opinion siding with the couples who sued the Mobile fertility clinic, Justice Jay Mitchell cited a 2018 state constitutional amendment ensuring the protection of the rights of the unborn child. He also cited an 1872 law allowing for civil lawsuits for the wrongful death of children, and argued that it does not explicitly include an exception for frozen embryos. Mitchell reasoned that the law applies to all children, born and unborn, without limitation. Chief Justice Tom Parker, an influential conservative Christian activist, cited biblical texts in his concurring opinion, writing, even before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory. Soon after, many IVF clinics in Alabama shut down until the state legislature passed a bill in March that extended criminal and civil immunity to IVF clinics for operations. This created major issues for families spending tens of thousands of dollars on a time-sensitive treatment. Alabamas ruling also created a fear among families struggling to conceive in other states with abortion bans and showed that the fertility treatment is broadly supported by voters from both political parties. Republicans updated their national party platform to include support for IVF access. During his presidential campaign, President-elect Donald Trump promised: your government will pay or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for all costs associated with I.V.F. treatment something he likely couldnt do without congressional action. Meanwhile, GOP members of Congress have largely opposed IVF protections and access bills. Mark Lee Dickson and Jonathan Mitchell This year, attorney Jonathan Mitchell and pastor Mark Lee Dickson together experimented with ways to prevent out-of-state abortions, using their home state of Texas as the primary testing ground. Mitchell, a former solicitor general of Texas, used a little known state rule to depose abortion funds, doctors, and women who left the state for an abortion. As the Texas Tribune reported, the actions created fear and confusion but have not resulted in charges. Mitchell previously filed a wrongful death lawsuit against women who allegedly helped their friend obtain medication to terminate a pregnancy, which has since been dropped. Through their Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn project, Dickson and Mitchell helped pass approximately 80 ordinances in cities and counties, mostly in Texas, but also in strategically located cities in abortion-access states, like Illinois and New Mexico. Some of the ordinances say a doctor in a state where abortion is legal cannot perform an abortion on a resident who lives in a town that has passed one of these laws. Some of the ordinances ban the use of that towns highways to drive someone to an out-of-state abortion clinic. And some invoke a dormant federal anti-obscenity law known as the Comstock Act, which they say the federal government should enforce to mean that abortion pills cannot be transported through the mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just like Texass 2021 six-week abortion ban that Mitchell and Dickson helped design, many of these ordinances are unenforceable by the governments that pass them, instead allowing for private citizens to sue other residents or medical professionals for aiding and abetting an abortion. The activists experienced a major loss on Election Day with the majority of voters in conservative Amarillo, Texas, voting down a ballot measure blocking abortion-related travel on its highly trafficked roads. But just before the end of the year, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued a New York doctor for prescribing abortion drugs to a Texas resident, which Dickson told States Newsroom is a win for the anti-abortion movement. He said that in 2025 he plans to push for local anti-abortion ordinances in Arizona and Missouri, which reversed their abortion bans in November. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE VIENTIANE, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A special event will be held on Tuesday to celebrate the inscription of the Lamvong dance as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Members of the public are encouraged to take part in this cultural celebration. The event will run from 10:00 p.m. local time to midnight, and participants wishing to join the dance must pair up with a partner of the opposite gender. The event highlights the importance of traditional Lao attire and culture while celebrating the global recognition of the Lamvong dance. It will also promote the traditional dress culture of the 50 ethnic groups in Laos. The event will also feature an exhibition showcasing large-scale models of the World Heritage List certificate for the Lao Lamvong dance, khaen music, and the Naga weaving motif. The traditional Lao Lamvong dance has been inscribed as a form of World Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, with official recognition of the dance announced in Paraguay on Dec. 5. Originally, the Lamvong arose from a simple dance that villagers growing paddy rice would perform around a central bale of rice to celebrate harvest time. Lam means dance, and vong means to circle. Over time, this simple dance style evolved into today's graceful routine, which is considered Laos' national dance, with the basic steps inculcated among members of the younger generation by their elders. A protestor holds a sign at an April 14, 2024, protest in favor of reproductive rights and abortion access in Scottsdale. Photo by Gloria Rebecca Gomez | Arizona Mirror Galvanized by a pivotal election almost two years after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion protections, patients, doctors, and activists in 2024 fought for renewed and expanded reproductive rights, while others pushed for more restrictions. These are some of the people and organizations that impacted reproductive health law and abortion access this year. Women with wanted pregnancies affected by abortion bans In state legislatures, before Congress, in court, in presidential campaign ads, and on stage at the Democratic National Convention, women all over the country have been reliving some of the worst moments of their lives in an effort to roll back abortion restrictions that have changed reproductive health care in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The year after Kentucky banned abortion, Hadley Duvall started talking publicly about how she was raped at 12 by her stepdad, who got her pregnant. She advocated for abortion rights in re-election campaign ads for Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear in 2023 and this year appeared in national campaign ads for Democrats. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Kaitlyn Joshua, of Baton Rouge, represented many Louisiana women at this years Democratic National Convention, telling whats becoming an increasingly common story of not being able to access miscarriage treatment after the state passed a strict abortion ban. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill subsequently challenged Joshuas story on social media. Kristin Lyerly, an OB-GYN from Wisconsin, is one of many doctors across the country who have sued over state abortion bans they say have changed medical practice. Lyerly this year participated in a civic engagement experiment in Madison, where strangers came together and shared the life experiences that inform their abortion views. Even when abortion rights were protected under Roe v. Wade, Lyerly said she was almost forced to give birth to a stillborn, in lieu of a less invasive abortion procedure. She also ran a reproductive-rights-focused campaign as a Democrat in a conservative-leaning congressional district, a race she lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allie Phillips ran as a Democrat for a seat in the Tennessee legislature after the states abortion ban kept her from terminating a nonviable pregnancy in her home state, leading her to travel to New York City for care. She lost the race but said in November that she plans to continue fighting for reproductive rights, and announced her new pregnancy. Phillips is a plaintiff in an ongoing lawsuit with other affected women and physicians to clarify the states medical health exceptions. A three-judge panel ruled in October that doctors cannot be penalized for performing an emergency abortion to save a patients life. Amanda Zurawski developed sepsis in Texas after her water broke at 18 weeks and doctors waited for days to terminate her pregnancy, fearing prosecution under the states strict abortion ban. Shes since become an outspoken abortion-rights advocate. She campaigned heavily for abortion-rights candidates this year and said she wants to continue working in politics. The Charlotte Lozier Institute The high-profile federal lawsuit over medication abortion was made possible in part by the Charlotte Lozier Institute, the research arm of the anti-abortion political powerhouse Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. Data from the institute featured prominently in the plaintiffs case for revoking the federal drug approval of mifepristone and was directly used as part of U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryks reasoning for granting the doctor-plaintiffs standing. The researchers found a significant jump in Medicaid-funded emergency room visits following a medication abortion over two decades, which also corresponds with an increase in access to medication abortion overtime. Public health experts told States Newsroom that the researchers inflated their findings, and appeared to conflate all emergency department visits with serious adverse events like sepsis. Their conclusions contradicted a large body of research showing a low rate of serious adverse events after taking mifepristone, prompting further scrutiny from curious scientists, as well as the academic publishing house that published it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, Sage retracted three studies produced by Charlotte Lozier researchers and published in the journal Health Services Research and Managerial Epidemiology between 2019 and 2022, after a reader-prompted investigation found flaws in the studies methodology and data representation. The team behind the studies included Charlotte Lozier vice president and director of data analytics James Studnicki and longtime anti-abortion researchers, including the then-CEO of one of the plaintiff groups in the medication abortion lawsuit. They sued Sage, saying the retractions were unjustified and politically motivated. The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejected the abortion medication lawsuit this past summer not on the merits of the case, but on the issue of the doctor-plaintiffs standing. Anti-abortion activists vowed to find a different plaintiff who could potentially persuade the court that abortion pills are too dangerous. After the Supreme Court remanded the case to the lower court, in October, intervening states Idaho, Kansas and Missouri amended their complaint, which no longer cites the retracted studies papers but instead cites a new paper from Studnicki and fellow Charlotte Lozier researchers, making similar claims. The Alabama Supreme Court A common fertility treatment, in vitro fertilization, was thrust into the national spotlight in February after the Alabama Supreme Court decided, 8-1, that frozen embryos should be considered children, in a wrongful death lawsuit over the embryos accidental destruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lower court had dismissed the claim, ruling that embryos do not meet the legal definition of children. But in the majority opinion siding with the couples who sued the Mobile fertility clinic, Justice Jay Mitchell cited a 2018 state constitutional amendment ensuring the protection of the rights of the unborn child. He also cited an 1872 law allowing for civil lawsuits for the wrongful death of children, and argued that it does not explicitly include an exception for frozen embryos. Mitchell reasoned that the law applies to all children, born and unborn, without limitation. Chief Justice Tom Parker, an influential conservative Christian activist, cited biblical texts in his concurring opinion, writing, even before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory. Soon after, many IVF clinics in Alabama shut down until the state legislature passed a bill in March that extended criminal and civil immunity to IVF clinics for operations. This created major issues for families spending tens of thousands of dollars on a time-sensitive treatment. Alabamas ruling also created a fear among families struggling to conceive in other states with abortion bans and showed that the fertility treatment is broadly supported by voters from both political parties. Republicans updated their national party platform to include support for IVF access. During his presidential campaign, President-elect Donald Trump promised: your government will pay or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for all costs associated with I.V.F. treatment something he likely couldnt do without congressional action. Meanwhile, GOP members of Congress have largely opposed IVF protections and access bills. Mark Lee Dickson and Jonathan Mitchell This year, attorney Jonathan Mitchell and pastor Mark Lee Dickson together experimented with ways to prevent out-of-state abortions, using their home state of Texas as the primary testing ground. Mitchell, a former solicitor general of Texas, used a little known state rule to depose abortion funds, doctors, and women who left the state for an abortion. As the Texas Tribune reported, the actions created fear and confusion but have not resulted in charges. Mitchell previously filed a wrongful death lawsuit against women who allegedly helped their friend obtain medication to terminate a pregnancy, which has since been dropped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through their Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn project, Dickson and Mitchell helped pass approximately 80 ordinances in cities and counties, mostly in Texas, but also in strategically located cities in abortion-access states, like Illinois and New Mexico. Some of the ordinances say a doctor in a state where abortion is legal cannot perform an abortion on a resident who lives in a town that has passed one of these laws. Some of the ordinances ban the use of that towns highways to drive someone to an out-of-state abortion clinic. And some invoke a dormant federal anti-obscenity law known as the Comstock Act, which they say the federal government should enforce to mean that abortion pills cannot be transported through the mail. Just like Texass 2021 six-week abortion ban that Mitchell and Dickson helped design, many of these ordinances are unenforceable by the governments that pass them, instead allowing for private citizens to sue other residents or medical professionals for aiding and abetting an abortion. The activists experienced a major loss on Election Day with the majority of voters in conservative Amarillo, Texas, voting down a ballot measure blocking abortion-related travel on its highly trafficked roads. But just before the end of the year, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued a New York doctor for prescribing abortion drugs to a Texas resident, which Dickson told States Newsroom is a win for the anti-abortion movement. He said that in 2025 he plans to push for local anti-abortion ordinances in Arizona and Missouri, which reversed their abortion bans in November. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Lawmakers in Missouri's General Assembly have pre-filed various bills to expand or reform the state's charter school law (Getty Images). Republican legislators are set to push for further expansion of charter schools around Missouri when the General Assembly reconvenes next month. Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing for more local control in counties where charters already operate, along with rolling back an expansion into Boone County that passed earlier this year. Sen. Ben Brown, R-Washington, introduces his legislative assistant on the first day of the 2024 Legislative Session (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). Identical bills filed by Sen. Ben Brown, a Washington Republican, and Rep. Michael ODonnell, a Republican from St. Louis, seek to authorize charter schools in the states five charter counties and in municipalities with at least 30,000 residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iterations of the bill have been filed since 2022. ODonnell prefiled the legislation last legislative session but did not receive a hearing. With some exceptions, charter schools are only allowed to operate in Kansas City, St. Louis and Boone County. Bills authorizing specific counties to establish charter schools had more traction. Rep. Brad Christ, a St. Louis Republican, got his bill seeking to authorize charter schools in St. Louis County through committee early in the 2024 legislative session and has refiled the bill this year. He believes legislation providing alternatives to traditional public schools will gain more traction under the leadership of Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe, who has spoken publicly about his support for charter schools and K-12 tax-credit scholarships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be much more coordination between the governors office and both bodies than in the past, Christ told The Independent. Residents in his district have asked for more publicly-funded schooling options for various reasons. The schools in his district have a good reputation, so Christ doesnt anticipate a large exodus from the public districts. I dont think charter schools will be popping up overnight all over St Louis County if this passes, he said. But in areas where theres a need and where theres a demand, I think it will provide options for families, whether that be academic, personal, social, religious or whatever it might be. Hes open to his bill amending a larger education package. Last year, his bill was tacked onto proposals to expand charters into St. Charles and Boone County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, only the Boone County legislation survived a tumultuous 2024 legislative session, with former Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden of Columbia pushing for his county to be a new home for charter schools. Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Democrat from Columbia, is hoping to reverse the decision with a pair of bills that would remove the authorization from state law and, secondly, call for a vote in Boone County to let voters decide if charters are welcome. Ultimately, it would be good to just completely have a repealed charter school provision, he told The Independent. But also, if we can take it to the voters and let them decide, I think that would be appropriate. Smith said Boone County residents never wanted charter schools expanded to their county, calling the legislation Rowdens baby. Rowden is leaving office because of term limits and has accepted a job as director of strategic advocacy at the lobbying firm Strategic Capitol Consulting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know that now that hes gone, youre gonna have anyone whos just adamant about keeping charter schools in Boone County, Smith said. He said he didnt know of anyone in the House pushing for charter schools in Boone County. Last year, Republican Rep. Cheri Toalson Reisch from Hallsville filed the legislation. In November, she narrowly lost a bid for Boone County commissioner and is term limited from continuing her work in the Missouri House. Other bills seek to change the way charter schools operate in Missouri. A proposal by Sen.-elect Maggie Nurrenbern, a Democrat from Kansas City, would require charter schools to obtain a certificate of need from their local school districts to operate. The State Board of Education would review and approve the certificates of need. Sen.-elect Maggie Nurrenbern, D-Kansas City, flips through a bill as she asks questions during an April 2023 House committee meeting (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent). Rep. Doug Clemens, a St. Louis Democrat, also filed legislation that would require local oversight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His legislation, which he filed last year as well, would require local school districts to sponsor charter schools. Most of the states charter schools are currently sponsored by the Missouri Charter Public School Commission, a state board that oversees charters. Clemenss bill would remove the need for the commission. The idea that local school boards dont have control over charter schools operating within their district is just not okay, Clemens told The Independent. I think that it is worth talking about local control when it comes to the education of our children. Having local governance of charter schools would allow residents to have more input on the way their tax dollars are spent on education, he said. His bill did not get a hearing last legislative session, along with bills filed by other lawmakers that would modify charter sponsorship. Rudi Keller contributed to this report. This article has been updated to reflect the presence of exceptions to Missouri charter school law. The MAGA Civil War has already rendered the Republican Party ungovernable, according to former GOP lawmakers who think the s--tshow is going to spiral out of control. The party is already acrimoniously split between the tech billionaires led by Elon Musk, who helped bankroll Donald Trumps re-election, and the original MAGA grassroots who have been loyal to Trump since 2016. To make matters worse, the tiny Republican majority in the House means there is absolutely no room for maneuver, and one or two intransigent Republicans could trigger an unprecedented constitutional crisis, and even delay Trumps inauguration next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first big test of Republican powerafter an apparently decisive triple victory in the November electionwill be voting for a Speaker of the House on Friday. Trump made a desperate intervention on Monday, calling for the party to rally around beleaguered Speaker Mike Johnson. However, the Louisiana congressman has alienated some on the far right of the party, who may refuse to play ball with Trump. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has already publicly stated he will vote against Johnson. Thus, the vote is effectively tied, with only one more GOP dissenter required to bring down the whole house of cards. A contested, multi-round speaker vote has never before been required at the start of a new Congress, and constitutional experts are split on whether the election can be certified and Trump sworn in as president if the squabbling continues. When you look at people like the Chip Roys [of Texas], the Tom Massies, the Andy Harrises [of Maryland]; they drink their own bathwater. They dont really drink Trumps bathwater, former GOP Rep. Denver Riggleman of Virginia explained on Bloomberg TV. A lot of people call the Freedom Caucus a Trump protection caucus. But in reality, there are people there that are very idealistic, right? Theyre ideologues, and theyre also going to do their own thing I dont think it guarantees Mike Johnson the speakership at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Riggleman said the first day of Congress on Friday was going to be miserable, and he pointed out that this would be the easy part. Once they actually try to pass some laws in the deadlocked House, he said, Legislations gonna be a s--tshow. Mike Johnson has been under huge pressure from some Republicans for attempting to strike deals with the Democrats / Kent Nishimura / Getty Images Massie himself was showing no sign of backing down to try and resolve the potential impasse. He said Trumps efforts to re-install Johnson were doomed to fail just like the Democratic effort to convince the world that President Joe Biden was not a potato. For months Democrats ignored the fact that Joe Biden was a potato. They convinced themselves that keeping him around was the pragmatic way to win the day. Too late did they admit the emperor had no clothes. Republicans are doing the same thing by keeping Speaker Mike Johnson, he wrote on X. Fellow Republicans Tim Burchett of Tennessee and Rich McCormick of Georgia said on Monday they needed further reassurances before they committed to voting for Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want a specific plan. When we talk about what we are going to make our cuts, how are we going to save this nation from bankruptcy? McCormick told NewsNation. I just dont think we have a plan. Burchett told Fox News he was still undecided but offered some extremely unexpected praise of Johnson. Hes a fine Christian man. Hes not a religious man; hes a Christian man, Burchett said. And he doesnt cheat on his wife, and I find that very appealing in Washington, D.C. Another former Republican congressman told MSNBC that the fissure at the heart of the MAGA movement was going to be a constant problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Often when Elon Musk goes about policy, hes actually wrong about most of it, and the scary part is most members of Congress dont realize hes actually wrong. They just say, Yes, lets go in that direction. Mike Johnson, I think hes a smart guy who knows that Donald Trump is often wrong and Elon Musk is often wrong, so hes in this place where he has to navigate the caucus of Trump/Musk followers while also actually doing the business of government, former Rep. David Jolly of Florida said. The former congressman said it wont make much difference who is eventually elected speaker, adding, This is an impossible speakership for anybody. BOULDER COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) It has been three years since the Marshall Fire burned more than 6,000 acres and destroyed 1,105 homes in Boulder County. Louisville, Superior and unincorporated Boulder County have collectively reported that 712 of those homes have been rebuilt. Louisville memorial dedicated to over 1K pets killed in the Marshall Fire Many of the neighborhoods that were hit hardest in the fire are nearly unrecognizable after these three years. Eric Schnepp rebuilt his home in the Sagamore neighborhood, which was one of the first neighborhoods to get hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You may not even realize the date but your body does and you get a little, like PTSD, anxiety every year about the same time, Schnepp said. He said he will not soon forget that day when he was down in his basement trying out his new Xbox when his daughter rushed down the stairs. Shes like, Dad, Dad, theres a fire outside. I was like, Which window? And she was like, All of them,' he said. He went upstairs and looked out and he could barely even see. The whole neighborhood was engulfed in thick, black smoke. Xcel Energy proposes rate hikes, power shutoffs in $1.9B Wildfire Mitigation Plan Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was just like, Get your sister, get the dog, were getting in the car. I get the keys, they come down and we literally just go out the front door, get in the car here and like, as I remember I open the front door and cinders just blew across the dashboard, Schnepp said. My youngest actually got burnt on her leg just trying to get in the car. He drove through the smoke, barely able to see a couple of feet in front of them. His instinct was to just head south and hopefully make it out. The Marshall Fire continues to burn as the sun sets over Superior on Dec. 30, 2021. (Credit: KDVR) The Marshall Fire continues to burn as the sun sets over Superior on Dec. 30, 2021. (Credit: KDVR) The Marshall Fire continues to burn as the sun sets over Superior on Dec. 30, 2021. (Credit: KDVR) Friday morning after the Marshall Fire (Credit: KDVR) Todd Lovrien looks over the fire damage from the Marshall Wildfire at his sisters home in Louisville, Colo., Friday, Dec. 31, 2021. Tens of thousands of Coloradans driven from their neighborhoods by a wind-whipped wildfire anxiously waited to learn what was left standing of their lives Friday as authorities reported more than 500 homes were feared destroyed. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) One home remains standing next to rubble just feet away following the Marshall fire in Boulder County, Colorado. (KDVR) Snow covers the burned remains of a home after the Marshall Wildfire Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, in Louisville, Colo. An overnight dumping of snow and frigid temperatures compounded the misery of hundreds of Colorado residents who started off the new year trying to salvage what remains of their homes after a wind-whipped wildfire tore through the Denver suburbs. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) SkyFOX view of people at locations destroyed by the Marshall Fire (KDVR) A mailbox is all that remains after the Marshall Fire destroyed this home (Credit: KDVR) Fire damage is seen near the suspected origins of Marshall wildfire, Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) John Peer finds a couple of plates as he looks through the rubble of his fire-damaged home after the Marshall Wildfire in Louisville, Colo., Friday, Dec. 31, 2021. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) We got out to Target and it was just stop-and-go traffic and you couldnt see, he said. I think the thing that was really amazing is that, and you can tell people are panicked, but people were still like letting each other in because at some fundamental level you knew, like, we all got to get out. He took the girls to where his wife worked at a brewery and they stayed there watching the news and monitoring the fire. Then, once the snow had fallen, they returned to their neighborhood to see what had become of their home and their neighbors houses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We walked up on the neighborhood and it was just, everything was still black and smoldering. I remember looking down in the basement, Schepp said Things were just smoldering like the washer just had smoke coming up out of it, just like smoldering. Scheppss neighborhood had burned in about an hour and a half. But now, brand new homes line the streets as homes are being rebuilt, and some, like Schepp, have chosen to return. It was weird to walk into a house thats on the same location of your old house, but its totally different, he said. It took months to get used to that, but then you know, it started to feel like home. And its felt like that more and more ever since. Aurora contractor accused of stealing from Marshall Fire victims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schepp is one of at least 50% of homeowners who have returned to their lots and rebuilt. Rebuilding is still going on in many of the neighborhoods like Sagamore and Spanish Hills, but Schepp said it is already starting to feel a bit more like it once did. The town worked real hard to rebuild some of the playgrounds so just for me hearing the kids kids playing on the playground, like the normal noises of a neighborhood, thats been pretty amazing to hear, Schepp said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. HIGH POINT Jimmy Carter probably didnt remember much about his brief campaign visit to High Point nearly half a century ago, but you can bet the High Point College students who crammed into Memorial Auditorium to see him remember it well. Oh yeah, it was a big deal, says Denise Everhart Barnes of Thomasville, who was a sophomore at the school. We were just High Point College then, a small Methodist college, not nearly on the scale that its on now. We didnt have a big coliseum. He spoke in that small auditorium, and it was packed. We were in awe. I remember thinking this is big to have a presidential candidate here this is pretty big stuff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter, who died Sunday at the age of 100, visited High Point on March 18, 1976, only five days before scoring a decisive victory over Alabama Gov. George Wallace in the North Carolina Democratic presidential primary. The win essentially eliminated Wallace from the race, and Carter went on to defeat Republican incumbent Gerald Ford for the presidency. Carters Thursday afternoon appearance in High Point was open to the public, but a significant portion of the crowd was HPC students. It felt like he was just one of us not some big politician or attorney from somewhere, but a Southern peanut farmer, Barnes recalls of the former Georgia governor. I honestly dont remember much of what he said, but I remember he was very personable. Everything he said, you felt like he was talking to you. Barnes also remembers seeing CBS reporter Ed Bradley and other national news correspondents covering the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Carters speech, he took a few questions from the audience, including one from freshman and High Point native Tom Gray about American soldiers in Vietnam who were still missing in action. He said he intended to do everything he could possibly do to uncover all of the information about anybody that was still MIA, remembers Gray, who now lives in Memphis, Tennessee. There were still a lot of soldiers missing in action. According to Gray, Carter also spoke at length about the publics mistrust of government. He was promising to bring honesty and integrity back to the White House, Gray says. We had just been through Watergate, and a lot of people had mistrust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the question-and-answer session, Carter came down from the stage and shook hands with supporters, including Gray, before leaving for an evening appearance at Wake Forest University. It previously had been announced that Carter would also speak at the High Point Rotary Club that same day, but that appearance was scrubbed when his travel plans changed. Nearly 50 years later, Barnes says Carters visit made a huge impression on her. Hes the only president Ive ever seen in person, so it was quite the thing, she says. I wasnt even 20 yet. Seeing him, and then seeing all these national news affiliates coming in, it kind of puts you in awe when youre 19 years old. It was a big deal I dont know that anything else like that ever happened at High Point College back then. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A $10.2 million investment from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) is helping districts across the state equip educators and students with tools to strengthen mental health and build resilience. In Sept. 2022, funds from the Resilient Schools Communities Grant were awarded to schools districts to help mitigate the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on students. High number of school threats in 2024 alarm TN law enforcement, schools Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In rural communities, like Franklin County, help can be a lot harder to find. Sometimes our families have to travel an hour or more in order to keep appointments or to have appointments. Thats a barrier in itself because of transportation, the money, and being able to travel, said Sheri Smith, the former lead counselor at the Franklin County School District. Its always difficult to watch a kid struggle, but I think what we all tried to do in response to that is to empower those kids and give them the skills they need to navigate through that, explained Eric Vanzant, director of the Campora Family Resource Center at the Franklin County School District. The Franklin County School District was able to accomplish that in part thanks to the more $100,000 it received from the Resilient School Communities Grant. Officials said they used the funds to invest in training for administrators, teachers, and students to help with mental health and other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grades are in: TN Department of Education releases state report card for 2023-2024 In the second year, the district launched even more services. Not only did we have social, emotional competencies being offered and those connections and those relationships with the adults in our building, then we were also offering before school and after school academic tutoring in year two, Vanzant said. With money left over, the district plans to continue the work through additional training and conferences, hoping to build stronger school communities for years to come. Its empowering everybody in education, the students to succeed, and everybody working in education to give them the tools to succeed, Vanzant concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. GEORGIA (WRBL) Preparations for President Carters funeral have been in the works for almost 50 years. Not long after Carter was sworn in as president in January 1977, officials began planning for this eventuality. WRBL spoke with a retired Army chaplain who has intimate knowledge of what will play out over the next two weeks. Retired Col. Tom Waynick now a senior counselor at the Pastoral Institute in Columbus was the Pentagon chaplain from 2012 to 2014. His insight on a state funeral and all that will happen around it is valuable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, a state funeral is our way our nations way of rendering its last honor to the commander-in-chief, said Retired U.S. Army chaplain Col. Tom Waynick. And the military takes it very seriously. It is a no-fail mission. That means as you watch President Carters body move from Sumter County to Atlanta to Washington D.C., then back home to Plains for interment, it will be done flawlessly with military precision. While working as a chaplain at the Pentagon, Waynick was involved in practice and preparation for a state funeral, an honor that will be bestowed upon Carter for his service as the nations 39th president. The state funeral, the practice of that state funeral probably embodies 600, 700 people. And you are pulling that many people offline every three months in order to make sure when the day comes we are ready, said Waynick. President Carters funeral has been practiced many times. In fact, we did it twice when I was there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And because Carter is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and served as an officer in the Navy, there will be special consideration given to that. If the president has served, they will make sure that there is a chaplain from their service. So, a Navy chaplain I would assume is already here in Plains or on the way to Plains, Waynick said. And that chaplain will accompany the body throughout that entire week. The Joint Task Force National Capital Region will manage the funeral and the movements of President Carters body. But Fort Moore will have a significant logistical role in the events. Waynick retired out of Fort Benning now Fort Moore a decade ago. So, he is not aware of the final details of the Carter funeral. But he knows there will be a local contribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have practiced their part of this. I am not sure exactly what their involvement is. But I know they are responsible for several aspects of this. Particularly since its so close, said Waynick. Just like President Carter life the funeral process will start and end right here in Plains. But there will be significant stops in Atlanta where he served as governor and Washington D.C. where he was president. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Dec. 31ANDERSON A task force established by the Anderson City Council is making an effort to address homelessness in the city. The City Council earlier this year approved a resolution to create a 13-member task force consisting of community members to address the problem. The task force will operate as a not-for-profit agency and will seek tax-exempt status through the federal government. During the year, its members established a mission statement and several subcommittees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Councilman Greg Graham said the city should not be in the homeless shelter business, adding the intent is for the task force to work with local agencies already providing services. "The primary purpose of said task force shall be to provide leadership in identifying and bringing together the various existing organizations or individuals that presently exist and who provide assistance either directly or indirectly," the resolution reads. The city is providing $10,000 for the task force to incorporate with the state and file for tax-exempt status. The issue of homelessness in the city grew more urgent with the closing of the Bingham Square and Madison Square apartments in the past two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the Anderson Redevelopment Commission provided funding to upgrade the Bingham Square Apartments, the work was never completed. There have been several lawsuits filed against the owner by the Indiana Attorney General's office and the City of Anderson. The Anderson Housing Authority is hoping to provide housing in the renovated Lincolnshire Apartments, with renovation work expected to start in the spring. The Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority denied an application for $1.1 million in tax credits for the Anderson Housing Authority to renovate the Lincolnshire Apartments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin Sulc, development director for the housing authority, said the housing authority is looking at two other options to finance the projected $4.5 million project to convert the Lincolnshire Apartments, built in 1927, into 21 one-bedroom apartments and nine studio apartments. The agency is partnering with BWI, an Indiana-based construction management and real estate development company, on the project. BWI has opened two apartment complexes in the area near the Wigwam complex, and a third is currently under construction on the site. Fredericks, Inc. has been retained as general contractor for the remodeling project and has assisted in reducing costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Anderson Redevelopment Commission is providing $770,000 toward the project, using tax increment financing money to pay off a bond for purchase of the building. Habitat for Humanity of Madison County completed the construction of four homes in 2024 for people in need of affordable housing. The organization is partnering with the Anderson Community Development Department to revitalize a portion of downtown Anderson on the near southeast side. Habitat has partnered with Anderson Community Schools to allow students in the D26 program to help build the housing. Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 765-640-4863. Dec. 31Madison County was impacted by extreme weather in 2024, with arguably the worst damage happening days before a new school year was set to begin. Late in the evening on July 29, a tornado touched down on the property housing the Frankton-Lapel Community Schools administrative officers. A gymnasium on the west side of the building was left in shambles as bricks from the building's shell littered the floor and heavy ceiling beams could be seen from the building's exterior after the twister tore the roof away. The office building itself and several school buses were damaged as the storm later confirmed by the National Weather Service as at least an EF1 tornado moved through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The storm hit just over a week ahead of the start of classes for the district. With several buses damaged, officials made alternate plans to transport students to schools. During a week-long stretch in late August, high temperatures soared well into the 90s, with heat indices topping 100 degrees. A month later, more than 300 homes in the area were plunged into darkness as the remnants of Hurricane Helene roared through the county the evening of Sept. 29. "This is the worst we've seen in quite a while," said David Eicks, chairman of the Board of Public Works. Anderson Municipal Light and Power, the city's primary electrical utility, called upon Indiana Municipal Power Agency for help replacing some of the downed power lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Micah Mitchell, a local weather watcher who operates the Madison County Weather Updates website, said 2024 was a fairly normal year overall. "It's probably the most normal year I can recall us having," he said. "The spring was pretty typical, with nice, long stretches of pretty mild weather. It was the same way with the fall. Summer was pretty mild, except for a few hot spells." Follow Caleb Amick on Twitter @AmickCaleb. Contact him at caleb.amick@heraldbulletin.com or 765-648-4254. SEOUL, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A South Korean court issued a warrant to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol and search the presidential residence, the joint investigation unit said Tuesday. The investigation unit, consisting of Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), National Office of Investigation (NOI) and the defense ministry's investigation headquarters, said in a short notice that the issuance of arrest and search warrants against Yoon was confirmed earlier in the morning. The unit added that no schedule was set for the execution of the warrants, which in normal cases are valid for one week from the date of issuance. It marked the first time in the country's modern history that an arrest warrant was issued against a sitting president. The joint investigation unit requested the warrants against Yoon to the Seoul Western District Court on insurrection and other charges the previous day. The unit asked Yoon to appear for questioning three times on Dec. 18, Dec. 25 and Dec. 29, but the impeached leader refused to receive summonses and submit documents for the appointment of his defense counsel. Yoon's side submitted written opinion and appointed defense counsel to the Seoul Court just hours after the request for issuance of the warrants. Yoon was named by investigative agencies as a suspected ringleader on insurrection charge. Yoon said in a televised address on Dec. 12 that he will not avoid his legal and political responsibility for the martial law that was declared by Yoon on the night of Dec. 3 but was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. The impeachment motion against Yoon was passed in the National Assembly on Dec. 14 and was delivered to the constitutional court to deliberate it for up to 180 days, during which Yoon's power is suspended. Dec. 31ANDERSON During 2024, the Madison County Prosecutor's Office determined that two shooting incidents involving law enforcement officers were justified. On June 1, Lataurus Harrison was shot and killed by Deputy Mason Brizendine as a a search warrant was served in the 1600 block of Fairview Street. Brizendine's actions likely saved his life and the lives of two other deputies, according to the prosecutor's office. According to a press release issued by Andrew Hanna, chief deputy prosecutor, the Marion County Sheriff's Department's assistance was requested in arresting Harrison, who had violated a court-ordered home detention in Indianapolis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search warrant was obtained from Madison Circuit Court Division 4 Judge David Happe by Sgt. Chris Burkhardt of the Sheriff's Department. Harrison was found in the driver's seat of a car parked along Fairview Street and deputies gave 18 verbal commands to Harrison to show his hands, according to the prosecutor's office. Deputies tried to open the car, which was locked with Harrison inside, and gave eight verbal commands for the car to be unlocked, the press release said. Burkhardt then broke out the window of the car, and Brizendine saw Harrison pull a handgun from his pocket and point the weapon at deputies, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brizendine fired 10 rounds into the vehicle, seven of which struck Harrison, authorities reported. Body cam footage, according to authorities, shows Harrison raising the handgun toward the deputies. An Anderson man who shot himself during a confrontation with a Pendleton police officer in May is scheduled to go on trial next March. Ross Morelock, 39, shot himself in the head on May 7 following a traffic stop in north Anderson and after exchanging gunfire with Officer Jerry Branson. Morelock is charged with attempted murder, being a serious violent felon in possession of a handgun, resisting law enforcement by drawing a weapon, criminal recklessness, battery with a deadly weapon, pointing a firearm, and possession of a destructive device. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the confrontation at the GetGo station at School Street and Broadway, the Madison County Prosecutor's Office announced that Branson was legally justified in firing shots at Morelock, who was wanted on three felony warrants, including two drug charges. Branson stopped the car at the gas station where Morelock was in the passenger seat. Morelock ignored three verbal commands to keep his hands where they could be seen, according to the police report. Branson gave two more verbal commands for Morelock to place his hands on the dashboard, police said. When those commands were ignored, Branson drew his weapon and pointed it at Morelock, just before Morelock produced a handgun and pointed it at the officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was a 10-second exchange of gunfire, with Branson firing four rounds and Morelock firing six times, striking the officer in the shoulder. According to a press release, Morelock exited the car and shot himself in the head. Jeremy Hinson, 47, 2000 block of Broadway, was charged with murder in connection with the June 26 shooting death of his wife, Michela, 47, in the Forestville Cemetery in Summitville. According to a probable cause affidavit, after his wife's body was discovered, Hinson was transported to Community Hospital Anderson for a possible overdose. Madison County Sheriff's Department Deputy Doug Beltz observed what appeared to be blood splatters on Hinson's body at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After obtaining a search warrant for Hinson's vehicle, Beltz recovered six shell casings, five in the vehicle and one on the ground. He found five bullet entry points in the back cushion of the driver's seat where, according to the court document, Michela was sitting. Officers also found a 9-mm handgun with one round in the chamber and three in a magazine. A second magazine contained 11 rounds of ammunition. Madison County Prosecutor Rodney Cummings said a deadly shooting downtown Anderson was apparently an act of self-defense. He said there are video recordings from cameras in the area of Ninth and Meridian streets that show Michael Piercy, 41, threatening three other people before confronting Squillante. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cummings said Piercy stole Squillante's cellphone and punched him in the face. He said Squillante pulled out a handgun and shot Piercy. Jason DeWayne Smith, 30, Anderson, was sentenced in July to 52 years in prison on a charge of dealing a controlled substance resulting in death. A co-defendant, Shalee Murdock, 27, was sentenced to six years in prison on a charge of dealing in a narcotic drug. Anderson police arrested Smith in March 2023 in connection with the 2019 death of Melinda Chanley, 48. Local businessman Steve Rubenstein was struck twice by the same car in a parking lot at Harrah's Hoosier Park Racing & Casino the night of his death last January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A witness who was in a parked vehicle nearby saw the car strike Rubenstein as he was walking, then saw the car back up and strike him again, the report states. Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 765-640-4863. Dec. 31Local school districts navigated an array of challenges in 2024 as Indiana's near-universal voucher program saw record numbers of students enroll in private schools, challenging public educators to innovate in a variety of ways to keep and attract students. The Indiana Choice Scholarship program provided vouchers allowing more than 70,000 students to enroll in private schools at an estimated cost of $439 million, according to a report from the Indiana Department of Education. Private schools in Madison County saw enrollment numbers surge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We actually did have to add some staff this year to accommodate the influx of students," said Kevin Plew, lead administrator at Indiana Christian Academy. Public school administrators voiced concerns about transparency and accountability with the program. "Since they receive state funding, I feel that these institutions should be given the same level of oversight as public schools do," said Joe Cronk, superintendent at Anderson Community Schools. "This will provide families a better understanding of these institutions when they are determining what the best educational option is for their students." In August, ILEARN testing results showed ACS had the eighth-worst English language proficiency scores among 296 public school systems in the state. Board member Joanna Collette demanded immediate action on a plan to raise those scores. The plan, which Cronk said had been in development for some time, was detailed at the board's September meeting. It includes planned evaluations of student progress several times a year, with a goal of raising test scores by 2-5%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Educators in Madison County were also reminded that the area's student populations are not immune from threats of violence that have become disturbingly prevalent throughout the nation's schools. In September, an Anderson High School student was arrested and charged with intimidation with a deadly weapon and threatening to commit terrorism after authorities were made aware of an audio recording in which the student mentioned bringing a gun to school. AHS has since installed weapons detection units and intensified random searches of student backpacks with metal detector wands. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) From drug seizures to murder-suicides, crime stories on WWLP.com were some of the most popular of 2024. 22News is working for you with a list of the top-viewed crime stories of the year. Back in April, four people, including one juvenile, were arrested in Springfield after police discovered multiple illegal firearms in a duffel bag. Detectives searched the duffel bag and discovered an AR-15 rifle with a 30-round magazine, a second illegal firearm with a 50-round drum magazine, and a third illegal firearm under the seat where one suspect was sitting. Courtesy of the Springfield Police Department In March, nine people were arrested after three search warrants were executed in Springfield where cocaine, heroin, and a machine gun were seized. Credit: Springfield Police Department Two Amherst residents face several firearm and drug charges after police conducted a search warrant at a motel in West Springfield on May 23rd. Joseph Charles Russell and Sarah Louise Slade (West Springfield Police Department) During an investigation by Homeland Security agents in August, over $10 million worth of cocaine and methamphetamine was found inside a tractor-trailer in Andover. Agents became aware of a California-based drug trafficking organization interested in transporting methamphetamine and other drugs to Boston. Two from California were taken into custody. (Homeland Security Investigations New England) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in February, Big Y announced that they had discovered card skimming devices were inserted at several Big Y locations across western Massachusetts. An unknown person placed a skimming device at locations such as Springfield, Northampton, Southbridge, Ware, and more. Customers are encouraged to review their bank statements for any fraudulent activity and to contact their bank or credit card company immediately if they find anything suspicious. Three people were found dead in a Main Street home in Wilbraham back in June. A person who had access to the home was checking in on the residence when they found all three dead within the home. Residents told 22News that they were shocked that this happened in their quiet community. In June, an alleged leader of a Massachusetts south shore drug trafficking ring was convicted after drugs, guns, and cash were found inside his apartment and a stash house. Aderito Patrick Amado of Brockton and Quincy helped lead a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analogue, and cocaine. An investigation revealed that the drug distribution conspiracy operated primarily out of a stash house in Weymouth, with additional evidence located inside Amados apartment in Quincy and his Jeep Cherokee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amado was tracked at his apartment and a stash house every day over two months through a court-ordered GPS monitor for a state drug conviction. His web searches also revealed online reviews of various items recovered from the stash house, including the kilogram presses, firearms, and cutting agents. (Department of Justice) A Pittsfield man was sentenced in May to prison for more than two dozen charges of larceny in connection to operating a construction business and never finishing projects after being partially paid. There were a total of 18 victims in the case ranging from Berkshire County to other areas of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Victims lost over a combined $300,000 for work promised to be completed. FILE: Generic jail/prison corridor (Photo credit: Getty) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in March, a 3-year-old autistic boy was found safe after an AMBER Alert was issued in Chicopee. The suspect took off in a car that was found running outside a Chicopee home with the child in the backseat. The AMBER Alert was canceled after two hours when the child was found safe at Rodeway Inn in East Windsor, Connecticut. The child was dropped off at the hotel and the suspect drove to Stop & Shop on Kennedy Road in Windsor, where he left the car. An employee of the hotel contacted the police. In April, over three dozen people were arrested along with over 300 citations issued during Operation May Flower by Lawrence police, Massachusetts State Police, and Essex County Sheriffs Department. In total, there were 303 citations for motor vehicle violations and equipment deficiencies, 39 individuals were arrested, and nine criminal summonses. The seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is displayed on a Massachusetts State Police cruiser parked outside the Statehouse, March 3, 2023, in Boston. (Photo: Massachusetts State Police) Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. In 2019, Samoa experienced a measles outbreak caused by low vaccination coverage. Following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination to be President-elect Donald Trump's health and human services secretary, the talking point that Kennedy caused this outbreak via his activism re-emerged. The measles outbreak in Samoa was not "caused" by Kennedy. A tragic accident in 2018, in which two infants died from incorrectly mixed vaccines, and the controversial pause in vaccination that followed, bear primary responsibility for creating those conditions. This does not exclude the possibility that Kennedy exacerbated these existing conditions. Kennedy's assertion that he "had nothing to do with people not vaccinating in Samoa" is not credible. It is undermined by his direct engagement with the Samoan government on the topic of vaccines, his direct engagement with the Samoan anti-vaccine movement before, during, and after the epidemic, and his platforming of the two primary influencers advocating against vaccination in Samoa. Following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination to be U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's health and human services secretary, the assertion that Kennedy played a role in causing or exacerbating a deadly measles epidemic in Samoa in 2019 saw new light. Such arguments appeared in The New York Times after previously appearing on MSNBC and being widely shared on social media. A quantitative assessment of Kennedy's proportional effect on the outbreak or failed containment of measles in Samoa in 2019 is likely impossible. To suggest Kennedy "caused" the outbreak, as some people have implied on social media, would be to use the same logical fallacies about causation that many opposed to vaccines rely on. In fact, a pause on the administration of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine following the 2018 deaths of two infants who were given incorrectly mixed injections was almost certainly the primary driver of low vaccination rates at the time measles struck. That period without vaccination lowered vaccination rates as well as trust in the Samoan health care system. August 2019 post on Facebook by Kennedy's Charity Children's Health Defense Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is clear, however, is that Kennedy and his charity Children's Health Defense (CHD) exploited the deaths of those Samoan infants, the pause on vaccination it caused, the emergency vaccination campaign it later necessitated and the epidemic itself to further their own political goals and bolster their claims. Kennedy's promotion of activists who spoke against the Samoan vaccination campaigns added reach and legitimacy to vaccine opposition immediately preceding the epidemic's onset. Kennedy, who upon receiving Trump's cabinet nomination pledged to "provide Americans with transparency," has regularly downplayed or changed the narrative regarding the facts of his direct engagement with the Samoan anti-vaccination movement before this deadly outbreak. When asked about his role in the pandemic in the 2023 film "Shot in the Arm," Kennedy told the filmmaker he "had nothing to do with people not vaccinating in Samoa," that he "never told anybody not to vaccinate," and that he "didn't go there with any reason to do with that." These claims strain credulity. In this story, Snopes provides a detailed accounting of Kennedy's contribution to the Samoan epidemic before, during and after it occurred, demonstrating both the failure of his talking points and the evolution of his claims of involvement. Kennedy did not respond to a detailed list of questions sent by email. Before the Epidemic In 2013, about 87% of Samoa's population had been immunized against measles, mumps, and rubella, according to a March 2020 paper in The Lancet, a peer-reviewed medical journal. Although these numbers fluctuated significantly in the years between 2013 and 2017, vaccination coverage for children younger than 1 dropped massively in 2018, hovering just above 40%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most significant reasons for this precipitous decline had nothing to do with Kennedy. In July 2018, two Samoan infants died minutes after their vaccination with the MMR vaccine. In response, Samoa controversially paused its measles vaccination program. However, an inquiry quickly revealed that two nurses' negligence in mixing the vaccines caused the deaths. Despite the finding, the vaccination program remained paused until April 2019, eroding public trust in vaccination. This pause in vaccines also created what the World Health Organization (WHO) later described as "a pool of susceptible children under the age of 5 years" in Samoa. Kennedy giving a speech at the California State Capitol on April 10, 2019. Before and during the period in which Samoa was undergoing a crisis of confidence in vaccination, Kennedy became involved with a series of campaigns in the United States to challenge state bills mandating vaccination, particularly the MMR vaccine at issue in Samoa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy, as part of this campaign, repeatedly pushed the notion that mainstream news reporting on the danger of measles was a conspiracy created by pharmaceutical companies to sell inherently unsafe vaccines to a frightened public. His stump speeches, articles and paid Facebook ads drove home claims that measles was not dangerous, that measles infections could in most cases be cured by vitamin A and that natural immunity to measles was stronger than vaccine-derived immunity. In a May 2019 post for CHD, Kennedy wrote that "measles is usually a mild, self-limiting childhood illness." He claimed falsely that dying from measles was "about double the risk of dying from lightning." In an April 2019 speech in California, Kennedy said that vaccine makers hide behind measles because it is a "genuinely contagious disease," but that it is still not a significant risk, saying "nobody dies from measles." In that same speech, he implied that vitamin A could prevent 80% of potential deaths caused by measles infections. Another common talking point, found in an October 2019 Children's Health Defense post, was that "The World Health Organization has touted the success of its vitamin A campaign in developing countries for reducing measles-related complications and deaths," a true statement manipulated by some activists to suggest that measles vaccination is unnecessary. Furthermore, Kennedy has claimed the vaccine might carry unknown risks. In a September 2019 CHD article, Kennedy argued that the MMR vaccine had "an unconscionably high injury rate," and that "no one can say that any one of the 70 vaccine doses currently recommended for American children saves more lives than it costs." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In multiple posts or speeches, Kennedy has suggested that natural immunity provided by a measles infection is stronger than vaccine-induced immunity. Further, his charity implied in 2018 that depriving children of such an infection could pose a cancer risk. Medical professionals reject these claims. These talking points were common across the anti-vaccine movement and not unique to Kennedy. Peer-reviewed research has shown, however, that Kennedy was one of the most significant sources of misinformation about vaccines during this time. In addition to amplifying and promoting these claims generally, Kennedy also validated the voices of those attempting to apply their logic specifically to Samoa. But Kennedy has an even more direct connection to the Samoan anti-vaccine discourse. Just before the emergence of the measles epidemic in Samoa, Kennedy brought a large digital audience thereby lending perceived credibility to two key critics of Samoan vaccination efforts: Edwin Tamasese and Taylor Winterstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tamasese, a Samoan coconut farmer, had been a vocal opponent of vaccines on Facebook for years. Winterstein, an Australian influencer and anti-vaccine activist, had been selling tickets to seminars promoting "informed decisions" about vaccines. In June 2019, Kennedy was a guest of honor at a Samoan Independence Day Celebration. The trip was actually "arranged," Kennedy later wrote, by Tamasese. While in Samoa, Kennedy pitched a potential CHD-funded, vaccine-safety monitoring program to the Samoan prime minister, health minister and others. He also coincidentally ran into Winterstein, he has claimed. Winterstein shared a picture to Instagram of the two together on June 4, 2019. Kennedy later shared a photo of all three Winterstein, Tamasese and Kennedy together in a post for the Children's Health Defense website: Winterstein (far left), Kennedy (middle) and Tamasese (far right) in Samoa in June 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While in Samoa," the Samoa Observer reported in June 2019, "Mr. Kennedy said he spent extensive time with Mr. Tamasese who introduced him to local families who were sympathetic to anti-vaccine messages." When panic over measles deaths set in several months later, many Samoans would initially turn to information that had been shared by Tamasese and Winterstein the two people whose profiles had been amplified by Kennedy. Neither Winterstein nor Tamasese responded to Snopes' request for comment. The Epidemic The first Samoan measles cases were reported in early September 2019. On Oct. 16, the Samoan government officially declared a measles epidemic after the confirmation of seven cases. The government urged vaccination but was slow to implement solutions. By the end of October, the disease was spreading rapidly. A problem immediately emerged for one specific anti-vaccine talking point: that death from measles was extremely rare. By the end of November, 39 deaths had been recorded primarily children under 5. To explain this apparent contradiction, Tamasese and Winterstein latched onto a common talking point about lack of vitamin A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "WHO/UNICEF clearly state vitamin A must be given as part of a measles treatment protocol in any vitamin A deficient country and any country that has a mortality rate equal to or greater than 1% of infected cases both of which Samoa has," Tamasese wrote in a Facebook post in late 2019. Tamasese, with the help of Children's Health Defense and Winterstein, began a campaign that involved publicizing a protocol that he claimed could cure measles infections. That campaign also involved distributing vitamins to infected measles patients. Winterstein shared stories to her nearly 50,000 followers of people allegedly being saved by Tamasese, arguing that Samoa children were "making a full recovery from measles" by adopting his vitamin "protocol." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Instagram post from Winterstein sharing stories of people finding success with Tamasese's "protocol." In a post on Children's Health Defense site in 2021, Tamasese recounted the support he got from Kennedy: Organizations like Children's Health Defense had reached out from the U.S. Quite quickly when I raised my concerns with them I was linked into a group of medical professionals by Mr. Kennedy and we worked on a protocol to ensure effective treatment. In addition, a nurses' group from Australia made contact. I also decided to make public posts on Facebook passing on information on how to treat measles using vitamin C and A. I also passed on information on using Carica Papaya leaf Extract (CPLE) for those who did not have access to these vitamins as they are ordinarily beyond the affordability price point of many. The situation deteriorated by the end of November. Tamasese and other anti-vaccine advocates began to blame not only poor nutrition but the vaccine itself. Tamasese, whose posts included increased claims of danger from vaccination, was arrested after he posted threatening messages on Facebook against Samoan vaccination efforts, describing health officials' campaign as a "killing spree." Kennedy did more than indulge the speculation of online activists like Tamasese; he brought them to the direct attention of the prime minister of Samoa. Using Children's Health Defense letterhead, Kennedy wrote a Nov. 16, 2019, letter to the prime minister that strongly suggested the MMR vaccination effort itself could be the problem and defended what he described as the "so-called 'anti-vaccine' movement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To safeguard public health during the current infection and in the future, it is critical that the Samoan Health Ministry determine, scientifically, if the outbreak was caused by inadequate vaccine coverage or alternatively, by a defective vaccine," Kennedy wrote, reiterating his earlier request for data. "There is also the possibility," Kennedy claimed, "that children who received the live measles virus during Samoa's recent vaccination drive may have shed the virus and inadvertently infected vulnerable children." Experts consider such a risk to be extremely rare. Regardless, the Samoan epidemic was not caused by a vaccine-derived strain of measles or a mutant strain that evolved resistance to vaccination. By the end of the year, Samoa had 5,707 reported cases of measles and 83 deaths a mortality rate of more than 1 in 100. Subsequent research has demonstrated that low vaccination coverage was the primary driver of the disease's mortality. After the Epidemic Vaccination rates surged back to around 90% following the Samoan government's vaccination drive, stabilizing the pandemic in spite of efforts to mischaracterize the danger of both measles and the MMR vaccine. Peer-reviewed studies suggest vaccination, along with other containment measures, were the primary factors contributing to the end of the epidemic. Before the Samoan measles epidemic, Kennedy repeatedly told his followers that death from the disease was extremely rare. Far from the one death for every 1,000 cases figure regularly lambasted by Kennedy as too high, the mortality rate in Samoa ended up being more than one in 100. Faced with this reality, Kennedy promoted, and continued to support, the voices of those who insisted, in spite of a lack of evidence, that vitamin A deficiency actually drove Samoa's high mortality rates. Kennedy still touts similar talking points. In a June 2023 podcast interview with Joe Rogan, for example, Kennedy wrote off measles deaths in African nations as caused by malnutrition, arguing that "it's hard for an infectious disease to kill a healthy person with a rugged immune system." In August 2023, Kennedy published a book, based on deeply flawed or amateur science, that implied the MMR vaccine carried medical risks including an increased risk of autism, Crohn's disease and other chronic illnesses. While Kennedy's talking points about measles and the MMR vaccine have shifted little since the end of the Samoan measles outbreak, Kennedy has tried to significantly revise his history with it. In spite of his pledge for transparency, Kennedy has severely downplayed his role in engaging with the Samoan anti-vaccine movement and government prior to and during the epidemic. When asked by a reporter for the Samoa Observer in February 2021 whether he felt responsibility for low vaccination rates and, ultimately, the measles outbreak that followed, he said: That is an impossibility. When I was in Samoa, I wasn't talking to people about vaccines, I didn't make any public appearances, I wasn't campaigning. [] I was only in your country for five or six days and I never spoke to anybody. I wasn't giving speeches [] I never talked to crowds, I wasn't preaching to people. I was there talking to a few select people who were very sophisticated, not people saying "I am not gonna have a vaccine because Bobby Kennedy told me not to." That is, in effect, what happened. Kennedy visited Samoa and legitimized the voices of people Tamasese and Winterstein who were telling Samoans the risks of the MMR vaccine might not be worth the reward because an infection could be cured, in most cases, with vitamin A and other natural remedies. November 2019 Instagram post by Winterstein November 2019 Facebook posts by Tamasese (Recovered from DiResta 2020) The Bottom Line The measles outbreak in Samoa was not caused by Kennedy. Though he was a loud promoter of the talking points common to the anti-vaccine movement at this time, he was not responsible for lowering vaccination rates to the depths they reached in early 2019. A tragic accident in 2018 and a controversial pause in vaccination bears primary responsibility for creating those conditions. The claim that Kennedy "had nothing to do with people not vaccinating in Samoa," is, however, not credible. It is belied, among other things, by his direct engagement with the Samoan government on the topic of vaccines, his direct engagement with the Samoan anti-vaccine movement before, during and after the epidemic, and his platforming of the two primary influencers advocating against vaccination in Samoa. Sources: Bono, Laura. "Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Speaking at Albany, NY Rally Concerning Mandatory Vaccines and Government Overreach." Children's Health Defense, 16 May 2019, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/robert-f-kennedy-jr-speaking-at-albany-ny-rally-concerning-mandatory-vaccines-and-government-overreach/. Braden, Angela. "'TRUTH' With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Health Freedom Advocate Taylor Winterstein: How Is COVID Affecting Vaccine Safety Advocacy?" Children's Health Defense, 6 Oct. 2020, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/truth-with-robert-f-kennedy-jr-and-health-freedom-advocate-taylor-winterstein-how-is-covid-affecting-vaccine-safety-advocacy/. CDC. "Genetic Analysis of Measles Viruses." Measles (Rubeola), 18 June 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/measles/php/laboratories/genetic-analysis.html. Champredon, David, et al. "Curbing the 2019 Samoa Measles Outbreak." The Lancet Infectious Diseases, vol. 20, no. 3, Mar. 2020, pp. 28788. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(20)30044-X. Craig, Adam T., et al. "Measles Epidemic in Samoa and Other Pacific Islands." The Lancet Infectious Diseases, vol. 20, no. 3, Mar. 2020, pp. 27375. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(20)30053-0. Deer, Brian. "I'll Never Forget What Kennedy Did During Samoa's Measles Outbreak." New York Times, 24 Nov. 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/25/opinion/rfk-jr-vaccines-samoa-measles.html. ---. "Samoa's Perfect Storm." The Telegraph, 20 Dec. 2019, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/measles-in-samoa/. DiResta, Renee. "On Virality: How the Anti-Vaccine Movement Influences Public Discourse through Online Activism." The Lancet and Financial Times Commission on Governing Health Futures 2030, July 2020, https://www.governinghealthfutures2030.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/072020_Renee-DiResta_On-virality-How-the-antivaccine-movement-influences-public-discourse-through-online-activism.pdf. "Do Vaccinated People Shed Spike Proteins or the Virus Could Be Harmful to Others?" Manitoba Vaccine, https://www.manitobavaccine.ca/answers/do-vaccinated-people-shed-spike-proteins-or-the-virus-could-be-harmful-to-others/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. How Dangerous Is a Measles Outbreak? - UChicago Medicine. https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/pediatrics-articles/2024/march/measles-is-still-a-very-dangerous-disease. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. Jamison, Amelia M., et al. "Vaccine-Related Advertising in the Facebook Ad Archive." Vaccine, vol. 38, no. 3, Jan. 2020, pp. 51220. ScienceDirect, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.10.066. "Joe Rogan Experience Podcast #1999." Kennedy24, 15 June 2023, https://www.mahanow.org/joe-rogan-transcript. "John F. Kennedy's Nephew Joins Samoa's Independence Celebration." Samoa Observer, https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/42888. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. Jr, Robert F. Kennedy. "A Dozen Facts About Measles That You Won't Learn From MSPharmedia." Children's Health Defense, 2 May 2019, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/a-dozen-facts-about-measles-that-you-wont-learn-from-mspharmedia/. ---. "Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Response to 'The Message of Measles' What The New Yorker Wouldn't Publish." Children's Health Defense, 10 Sept. 2019, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/robert-f-kennedy-jr-s-response-to-the-message-of-measles-what-the-new-yorker-wouldnt-publish/. Jr, Robert F. Kennedy, and Brian Hooker. Vax-Unvax: Let the Science Speak. Simon and Schuster, 2023. Kasprak, Alex. "How RFK Jr. Exploited a Bogus Study Linking Vaccines to Chronic Illness." Snopes, 27 Feb. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//news/2024/02/27/rfk-vaccines-control-group/. "Leading Samoa Medical Freedom Hero Goes Free After Court Case Dismissed." Children's Health Defense, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender/lsamoa-medical-freedom-hero-court-case-dismissed/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. MD, Vincent Iannelli. "Jim Meehan Supporting a Farmer Helps Explain the Deaths in Samoa." VAXOPEDIA, 2 Dec. 2019, https://vaxopedia.org/2019/12/01/jim-meehan-supporting-a-farmer-helps-explain-the-deaths-in-samoa/. Merlan, Anna. "Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Group Is a Top Buyer of Anti-Vax Facebook Ads." VICE, 15 Nov. 2019, https://www.vice.com/en/article/robert-f-kennedy-jrs-group-is-a-top-buyer-of-anti-vax-facebook-ads/. Orac. "Antivaxxer Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Writes to Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi about Measles in the Middle of an Outbreak." RESPECTFUL INSOLENCE, 5 Dec. 2019, https://www.respectfulinsolence.com/2019/12/05/samoa-measles-outbreak-malielegaoi/. Palmer, Dr Alan. "Getting the Measles in Modern-Day AmericaNot Nearly as Dangerous as Portrayed." Children's Health Defense, 24 Oct. 2019, https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/getting-the-measles-in-modern-day-america-not-nearly-as-dangerous-as-portrayed/. Pellish, Kaitlan Collins, Kristen Holmes, Aaron. "Trump Picks Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Be His Department of Health and Human Services Secretary | CNN Politics." CNN, 14 Nov. 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/14/politics/robert-f-kennedy-donald-trump-hhs/index.html. "Planned Apia Anti-Vaccine Workshop Worries Ministry, WHO." Samoa Observer, https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/39706. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. "P.M. Was Suspicious of Vaccines, Activist Says." Samoa Observer, https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/79501?cont=true. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. "RFK Jr., Anti-Vaxxers, and a Measles Outbreak: Mehdi's Deep Dive." MSNBC, 6 July 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0f3yZ9jJPY. "Samoa Arrests Anti-Vaxxer as Immunisation Drive Continues." Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/12/6/samoa-arrests-anti-vaxxer-as-immunisation-drive-continues. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. "Shot in the Arm Clip (2023) - Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Samoa Measles Outbreak." Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4Ye5QI1XQM. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. "The HighWire with Del Bigtree: HighWire Special Report- Rally to Oppose SB276 Sacramento, CA." JoyBee, http://joybee.live/s/meBq4a. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. Vaccine Safety Science Needed. Were... - Children's Health Defense | Facebook. 6 Dec. 2019, https://web.archive.org/web/20191206032003/https://www.facebook.com/ChildrensHealthDefense/posts/vaccine-safety-science-needed-were-these-once-healthy-children-who-died-the-only/2390516811195726/. What You Need to Know about Measles. https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/what-you-need-to-know-about-measles. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024. 'Why My Baby?': How Measles Robbed Samoa of Its Young - The New York Times. 31 Dec. 2019, https://web.archive.org/web/20191231124421/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/19/world/asia/samoa-measles.html. World Health Organization. WHO/UNICEF SECRETARIAT SUPPORTING MEASLES OUTBREAK PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE IN THE PACIFIC. MEASLES OUTBREAK IN THE PACIFIC - SITUATION REPORT No 1, 22 Nov. 2019, https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/wpro---documents/dps/outbreaks-and-emergencies/measles-2019/measles-pacific-sitrep-20191122-docx.pdf?sfvrsn=d8166638_2. Yeung, Jessie. "Samoa Pulls MMR Vaccine after Two Babies Die." CNN, 10 July 2018, https://www.cnn.com/2018/07/10/health/samoa-mmr-baby-deaths-intl/index.html. MONTVILLE, Conn. (WTNH) A Rhode Island man is facing charges after troopers found him unresponsive near his disabled car on Interstate 95 near Exit 92 in Montivlle, state police said. Joshua West, 34, of Warwick, R.I., was charged with operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer, illegal carrying of a firearm under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, breach of peace in the second degree and carrying a pistol without a permit. According to state police, at around 2:17 p.m. on Saturday, troopers received a call reporting a car with a driver possibly slumped over the wheel. When police located the car, the man appeared to be unresponsive and after a few moments, began responding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New London man arrested for reckless driving on Route 2 in Marlborough State police said troopers discovered West had narcotics, which tested positive for the presence of fentanyl. Troopers also found a loaded .40 caliber handgun which West did not have a permit to carry. West was taken to the hospital for evaluation where troopers requested a sobriety test, which he failed. West also attempted to punch a nursing staff member during his treatment, state police said. West held on a $50,000 bond. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Terre Hautes singing janitor, Richard Goodall, reflected on the biggest year of his life and whats to come in 2025. Without question, the biggest year of my life, Richard Goodall, Winner of Americas Got Talent (AGT) 2024 said when reflecting on the year. Everything in life happens for a reason. Theres no rhyme or reason why this is my year. It was just my time, I guess, he added. When I flew out there, I didnt have any expectations of this being my time. It was a free trip and I was just going to go out there and just show what I got and fly back home with my tail between my legs, he said. And little did I know, he said with a chuckle, I got all of this that happened. Its very surreal, it still is, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How has getting the award changed Goodalls life? Getting that award has changed my life, yes, but Im still the same person. Im still grounded. Goodall says the people around him keep him grounded. Reminding him who he is. I have people that keep me level-headed too. And still working at the school, taking out the trash and wiping down the tables, that keeps you grounded too, he said. Im still working at the school. The kids still see me Monday through Friday, he laughed insinuating that the students are no longer starstruck. Im just Mr. Richard to them, he chuckled. People always ask me if Im staying at the school, and its not an easy question to answer, because Ive been with the corporation for 23, going on 24 years, and I love it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says the answer is never easy, but he hopes to continue working at the corporation for as long as he can. Goodall said he has a lot currently going on behind the scenes. As he wrapped up the year, he said he opened for Howie Mandel, on Saturday, December 28 at Fantasy Springs in California. Looking ahead to 2025 Goodall said he and his wife are looking forward to whats to come in the new year. Life is unscripted right now, for Ang and I both. So, you know, flying by the seat of our pants, but in a controlled way. And also learning the craft, the business of music, a lot, he said. Its not going to be a normal year like in years past working Monday through Friday, Im flying here, flying there, just wild and surreal, all of it, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are there some pretty big things coming up, he questioned. Absolutely, yes, he added. Goodall said he has two concerts scheduled in January: one in Ohio and the other in Pennsylvania. Plus, three Indiana concerts are scheduled for April. The first ones in Anderson, the second ones in Wabash, and the third one is in Lafayette. And those are April, 17, 18, 19, he said noting that anyone interested in attending can follow his official Facebook page for more information. In between the scheduled concerts, Goodall says hes been booking more corporate and private shows. And theres a lot of stuff that the ink isnt even dry on yet, He said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goodall went on to explain that hell be paired up with another contestant from AGT for a few shows this summer and said that hes still working on putting together a local band, but he has a band out of Vegas that hell also tour with. At the end of the day, Im still the same person. Ang and I are still in Terre Haute. We might do the snowbird thing later on, it just depends. A message to his fans The people who voted for me, thank you, he said. This whole thing has been surreal, very wild. But very much appreciated, its not wasted on me and I intend to give back. Goodall said he is having a lot of fun connecting to many different age groups through music. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think thats what life is all about, is leaving your mark on this world. And it could be at a local level or a national level, he said while reflecting on 2024. Im looking forward to 2025, seeing where we go and what opportunities are going to come our way. Its very exciting because right now, the skys the limit, he added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. RICHMOND COUNTY, Ga. (WJBF) A former Richmond County Elementary School Paraprofessional has released from the Charles B. Webster Detention Center after being arrested in an incident that allegedly involved the dragging of a 4-year-old student down the hallway. According to the Richmond County Sheriffs Office, Lauren Huffman Kimbrel, who has been reported to be a paraprofessional at T. Harry Garrett Elementary School, was arrested for Felony First Degree Cruelty. According to paperwork filed prior to her arrest, the incident happened on Thursday, December 19th at 1:19 P.M. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to authorities, warrants for Kimbrels arrest allege that one day before Richmond County Schools were released for winter break, Kimbel was accused of grabbing the 4 year-old student in her care by the arm and dragging her down a school hallway before she aggressively snatched her off the floor by the arm and shoved her into a classroom causing the victim pain in her right arm. Authorities also say that the warrants state that, under the law, Kimbrels alleged actions are being viewed as having jeopardized the childs well-being. Kimbrel was booked at Charles B. Webster Detention Center and has since bonded out. According to a spokesperson for Richmond County School System, Kimbrel is no longer employed by the Richmond County Board of Education as of Friday, December 20th, a day after the incident allegedly occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. RIDGELAND, Miss. (WJTV) A Ridgeland police officer shot a suspect after the officer was hit by a vehicle, officials said. The shooting occurred at the Renaissance at Colony Park on Tuesday, December 31. Bailey Martin, press secretary for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS), said Ridgeland police were conducting surveillance on a vehicle. According to management with the Renaissance at Colony Park, police had located a stolen vehicle near Barnes and Noble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the officer attempted to approach the vehicle, Martin said the suspect drove towards an officer. The officer was struck by the stolen vehicle, according to officials with the shopping center. Teen arrested, 4 others wanted after Jackson crime spree The officer fired his weapon, striking the unidentified driver. Officials said the driver struck other vehicles in the area and fled the scene. According to Martin, the suspect led officers on a brief chase on Interstate 220 before the vehicle came to a stop. The suspect received non-life threatening injuries. Martin said the officer also sustained non-life threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madison police, Madison County deputies, U.S. Marshals and Jackson police also responded to the incident. Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) are investigating the shooting and will share their findings with the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) As many across the state ring in the New Year, several agencies across Middle Tennessee are offering ways to help you get home safely. According to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% is enough to get a DUI infraction. Data from the department showed that between last November and Oct. 31 of this year, more than 7,200 crashes involved a DUI driver. Half of those resulted in injury or death. Theres a lot of control associated with holidays: Battling domestic violence through New Years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you refuse to submit to a BAC test, you could have your drivers license revoked for a year. That revocation only increases with each repeated offense, or if you injure or kill someone while behind the wheel. In addition to losing your license, you may have to participate in alcohol and drug treatment programs, face up to a $1,500 fine or have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle. If you find yourself without a designated driver Tuesday night, here are a few ways to get home responsibly: Statewide Once again, AAA is offering Tow to Go through Jan. 2. You do not have to be a member of AAA to utilize the free service. All you have todo is call (855) 286-9246 to get a confidential ride. The ride is only good for one person and one vehicle and you cannot schedule an appointment in advance; your destination must be within a 10-mile radius of where youve been picked up. AAA said that in some situations, the agency may need to make other arrangements to get an impaired driver home. Additionally, the service may not work in rural areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything you need to know before you ring in 2025 at Nashvilles Big Bash Transit After 6 p.m., WeGo will offer free rides on Public Transit bus routes and Access service. You can find all information about available routes and times at their website or through their app. If youre going to Nashvilles Big Bash, there will be shuttle services between the event and downtown Nashville. County Sheriffs Offices The Benton County Sheriffs Office will conduct Operation Sober Ride between 10 p.m. Tuesday night and 5 a.m. Wednesday morning. If youre at a location in Benton County and going to another location within Benton County, like a residence or a hotel, you can can call and get help from an available deputy. The Warren County Sheriffs Office is putting on the Safe Ride Home Program, which will offer free rides to anyone who contacts the office to a destination within Warren County no questions asked. You can call the jail at (931) 473-7863, give your name and current location, and ask for a ride to any home within Warren County. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The Lawrence County Sheriffs Office, in partnership with the Lawrenceburg Police Department, will also offer sober rides. You can call 762-0450 to find a ride, and Sheriff John Myers reminded those that anyone who gets in a county vehicle will be subject to search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In White House, the police chief has offered to provide sober rides at any time this evening and said he would not accept tips or gas money. You can call or text (615) 522-3114. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) A Rio Rancho man accused of shooting hundreds of rounds from his home this month is now being ordered to hand over his guns for a year. Story continues below Eric Brusstar was first hit with a temporary Extreme Risk Protection Order last week. On Monday, a judge decided that order should be extended based in part on what police said. Were concerned, were obviously going to file for a pretrial detention motion once hes finally able to be booked into a detention facility. Were concerned that we might have that motion denied and that he will be able to get out on whatever terms of release and he will still be able to legally purchase a firearm, a police officer said in court on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back on Dec. 17, Rio Rancho neighbors near Sabana Grande Ave. and New Mexico 528 were awoken to the sound of hundreds of rounds being fired into the air. Neighbors sheltered in place and roads were closed for hours. Police eventually arrested Eric Brusstar after an hours-long swat standoff. Hes been in the hospital ever since, but miraculously no one else was hurt. Citing mental health and substance abuse issues, last week a judge issued a temporary order against Brusstar blocking him from having any firearms. On Monday, Judge George Eichwald extended that order to a full year. Prosecutors also gave an update on the expected criminal case. The reason charges havent been filed yet is because Mr. Brusstar cant be detained. Hes got to get out of the hospital first, said Attorney Chance Sousa with the 13th Judicial District Attorneys Office. Eight firearms were taken from Brusstars home and police believe theyve taken all of the guns that were in the home. Online court records indicate no criminal history for Brusstar in New Mexico. The order lasts through the end of 2025, but prosecutors will have an option to possibly extend it next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state said they plan to file charges once Brusstar gets out of the hospital and they also plan to ask for him to be held in jail while awaiting trial. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. SYDNEY, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A Sydney police officer and dog were shot at during a pursuit that prompted a major police response in the city's west early on Tuesday morning. Police in the state of New South Wales (NSW) said that at about 1:30 a.m. local time, officers responded to reports of two men armed with guns attempting to break into a property in Endensor Park, approximately 30 km west of central Sydney. Upon arrival at the property, officers were informed that the two men had fled the scene in a vehicle. The car was spotted in a neighboring suburb and police began a pursuit, which was abandoned due to safety concerns. The vehicle was again spotted shortly later and a second police pursuit was initiated. During the second pursuit, the passenger in the vehicle leaned out of the window and fired multiple shots at a police car, NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell told reporters. Two of the shots hit the vehicle but neither the officer nor the police dog inside were harmed. "One of those shots could have just as easily penetrated the windscreen of the vehicle and hit the dog squad officer," Thurtell said. Police deployed road spikes and shortly after the vehicle ran off the road and crashed. The driver, a 20-year-old man, was arrested but the passenger was able to escape. A major police operation was launched and heavily armed tactical units were deployed to search the area. But the operation was abandoned at 10 a.m. when no trace of the man was found. NSW Police said that three guns were found inside the vehicle. Thurtell said that the resident of the property in Endensor Park has alleged links to organized crime and that police believe the attempted break-and-enter was an intended gangland hit. He said that there is no concern for broader community safety. A crime scene has been established at the property. More evidence has emerged to indicate that a murder suspects suicide at a Riverside County jail was avoidable, according to an investigation by the New York Timess Local Investigations Fellowship. As published in the Press-Enterprise, Aaron Aubrey began to cover his cell door window with newspaper about an hour before he was found unresponsive, apparently to keep anyone from looking inside. Missing Riverside Woman Found Dead Near Box Springs Mountain IDd as Mother of Suspected Killer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also asked for mental-health treatment prior to his death, and deputies did not complete a required security check, according to the investigation, which used videos and reports obtained through a public records request. Aubrey, who was facing murder charges in the death of his mother, Mica Maddock, was one of five recent suicides at Riverside County jails, the Times found in an investigation. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco did not respond to the Times requests for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Willie, a beloved donkey who has lived at Roger Williams Park Zoo for more than two decades, died on Saturday. The zoo announced the 30-year-old donkeys passing in a social media post on Sunday. According to the post, Willie was surrounded by his zookeepers when he died. ALSO READ: Buttonwood Park Zoo says Ruth, beloved elephant, has died Willie brought immeasurable joy to our visitors, staff, and volunteers. His gentle spirit and playful personality will be deeply missed, the zoo said. He was truly an extraordinary ambassador for the Zoo, and his presence will forever be felt throughout the farm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Willie first arrived at the zoo on July 26, 2002. Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy of Vicki Scharfberg) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Willie the donkey (Courtesy: Roger Williams Park Zoo) Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu, who took office on 23 December, has had his first telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha. Source: Romanian Foreign Ministry and Ukraines Foreign Minister Sybiha on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: The Romanian Foreign Ministry noted that Hurezeanu and Sybiha had "frank and productive exchanges" on the security situation in the region, bilateral relations, and Ukraine's European and Euro-Atlantic agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from the Romanian Foreign Ministry: "[We] condemned Russias aggression and expressed Romanias strong and enduring support for Ukraine's legitimate fight. Agreed to stay in close contact and work together to advance Romanian-Ukrainian partnership in all areas." More details: Sybiha said that during the conversation, he and his Romanian counterpart confirmed their readiness to "strengthen the strategic nature of our partnership, sectoral cooperation, and Black Sea security". "Grateful to Romania for supporting Ukraine and our defense capabilities," he added. Background: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 23 December, Romania approved a new government after the parliamentary elections, with Social Democrat Marcel Ciolacu remaining prime minister. This happened amid political turbulence in the country after the cancellation of the first round of the presidential election, where anti-Western candidate Calin Georgescu won. Support UP or become our patron! As hundreds of thousands of people descend on Pasadena for the 136th annual Rose Parade, more than 1,200 federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies, as well as fire personnel, will also be on site and working to keep the grand event safe. The theme for the 2025 Tournament of Roses Parade is Best Day Ever! and while city officials hope thats the case, they are also encouraging all spectators to follow the rules, especially the no-fly zone. We really want to emphasize no drones, City of Pasadena Spokesperson Lisa Derderian told KTLAs Shelby Nelson. We have zero tolerance for that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Derderian added that fines for flying drones are hefty, and violators could also face jail. Law enforcement vans will be dispersed throughout the parade route in case of unruly spectators needing arrest, officials said, and clear barricades will limit peoples access to floats and performers during the parade. Some 1,200 federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies are on-site during the 136th annual Rose Parade. (KTLA) Some 1,200 federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies are on-site during the 136th annual Rose Parade. (KTLA) Some 1,200 federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies are on-site during the 136th annual Rose Parade. (KTLA) Last year, one woman was taken into custody after ramming her vehicle into some of the barricades. Thankfully, these barricades stopped her, Derderian said. She could have easily injured if not killed several people in front of her. Beloved Creole-style eatery in Southern California repeatedly hit by thieves Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials are also reminding parade attendees that they cannot secure an overnight camping spot until Tuesday at noon. All persons and property, such as blankets, chairs and personal items, must remain on the curb until 11 p.m., Pasadena fire and police officials said. At that time, spectators may move out to the blue Honor Line but not past it. Despite all the rules and regulations, paradegoers, like Jan Millard and her husband who flew in from Wyoming to watch their grandson play the euphonium in the parade, are expecting to have a great time. Just a little excited, yeah, Millard told KTLA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A full list of Rose Parade safety tips, rules and regulations can be found by following this link. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. BERNARDSTON, Mass. (WWLP) Route 5 in Bernardston is closed Tuesday morning due to a crash. Route 202 in Granby closed due to vehicle crash and pole damage The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) said that Route 5 was closed in both directions at 546 Brattleboro Road due to a crash. One lane has since reopened. There is no word yet on the cause of the crash, injuries, or when the road will reopen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 22News will update this story as soon as more information becomes available. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (FOX 56) A 33-year-old Russell County man was arrested on Saturday as investigators say hes accused of sexually soliciting a minor. According to the Kentucky State Police (KSP), troopers received a complaint on Dec. 26 alleging Zachary Grider was messaging a 15-year-old juvenile on Snapchat, with some messages containing sexual references. Court documents show the boy also lived in Russell County, and they were around each other for a play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more of the latest Kentucky news Zachary Grider, 33. (Russell County Detention Center) The boys family members showed photos of the Snapchat conversations to officers, per arrest records. Grider reportedly admitted to sending the messages while drinking and knew it was wrong, and his phone and MacBook were seized as evidence. Officials said Grider was arrested and charged with procuring or promoting the use of a minor by electronic means. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: He was booked into the Russell County Detention Center, and KSP said the investigation is ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. The Russian Defence Ministry has claimed that air defence systems destroyed 68 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory and temporarily occupied Crimea over the past day. Source: Russian Defence Ministry on Telegram Details: The ministry reported that 25 UAVs were allegedly downed over Bryansk Oblast, 17 over Crimea, 11 over Krasnodar Krai, 10 over Smolensk Oblast, 2 over Tver Oblast and one each over Rostov, Kursk and Kaluga oblasts. Background: Russian media and Telegram channels reported a fire at an oil depot at dawn on 31 December following a UAV attack in Russia's Smolensk Oblast. Explosions were heard in the temporarily occupied city of Sevastopol, Crimea, on Monday evening, 30 December. The Russians claimed an attack by drones and uncrewed surface vessels. Support UP or become our patron! KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's electric vehicle (EV) market is expected to gain momentum in 2025, driven by localization investments and new models from local automakers, analysts said. The combination of policy-driven incentives and automaker strategies is expected to shape the future of the nation's EV landscape. Maybank Investment Bank said in its recent report that Malaysia's incentives for completely built-up EVs, including duty exemptions and import restrictions for lower-priced models, will expire at the end of 2025. This would prompt mass premium EV makers to localize assembly to maintain competitive pricing. Malaysia's EV adoption is forecast to reach 3 percent of total industry volume (TIV) in 2025, while hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) could account for 5 percent, based on Maybank's TIV projection of 750,000 units for the year. MIDF Research also highlighted the government's focus on promoting Malaysia as a hub for affordable EV production. As EV still plays a minor role in TIV, CGS International suggested that removing fuel subsidies in mid-2025 and accelerating charging infrastructure could trigger an inflection point for EV adoption. CIMB Securities, in its recent report, predicted higher adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as competition intensifies ahead of the 2026 duty exemption expiry for imported models, and domestic assembly will take precedence. Malaysia's national automakers are stepping into the EV market amid the government's EV push. Malaysian automaker Proton recently unveiled its first electric SUV in collaboration with its partner. Perodua, meanwhile, plans to launch a B-segment hatchback EV in late 2025, aiming for initial monthly production of 500 units, positioning the model as Malaysia's most affordable EV. Meanwhile, according to Maybank, the growing range of EV models in Malaysia could drive investment in public charging infrastructure. However, it noted that government incentives remain critical to accelerate this agenda, given the slow progress towards achieving the national target of 10,000 EV chargers by 2025. At the current rate of 111 installations per month, achieving this goal would require a fivefold increase in deployment, the research house added. Despite the increasing adoption of EVs, analysts still anticipate a decline in Malaysia's automotive TIV in 2025. While the EV segment shows growth potential, traditional automotive segments continue to face headwinds. Maybank noted that Malaysia's mass premium automotive segment, comprising vehicles priced between 100,000 and 200,000 ringgit, is entering a downcycle after two strong years. Similarly, CGS International also foresees Malaysia's TIV normalizing to 780,000 units in 2025, after three years of record sales. However, it also highlighted opportunities for local automakers to expand export markets and strengthen brand equity as domestic assembly capabilities improve alongside a more skilled labor force. Overall, the year 2025 is set to be a critical inflection point, with localization, infrastructure development, and government policies determining the pace of EV adoption. As automakers and policymakers ramp up efforts, the coming years will reveal whether Malaysia can achieve its ambitions of becoming a regional EV hub. (1 ringgit equals 0.22 USD) Russias foreign minister has rejected ideas floated by members of the Trump transition team for a negotiated ceasefire in Ukraine, casting doubt that the president-elect will be able to secure a peace deal in his first 24 hoursas he repeatedly claimed on the campaign trail. Speaking to Russian state-owned wire service TASS, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told reporters that Russia has not received any official signals regarding a settlement from the Trump campbut immediately criticized the ideas he had heard floated in the media. The Trump transition team has not put out an official outline for what a peace plan would look like, and Trump has refused to provide further details in recent interviews in order to preserve the negotiation process. When I start exposing that plan, it becomes almost a worthless plan, the president-elect told Time magazine in an interview in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But details of what the Trump administration plans to offer have slowly circulated. Shortly after his electoral victory in November, The Wall Street Journal reported that Trumps transition team was discussing a peace deal that would include a promise that Ukraine could not join NATO for 20 years. Earlier in December, sources told the Journal that Trump had spoken with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron about stationing European troops in Ukraine to monitor a ceasefire. Lavrov made it clear that Russia was aware of the incoming administrations proposals. Judging from numerous leaks and Donald Trumps interview with Time magazine on December 12, their idea is to suspend hostilities along the line of contact and transfer responsibility for confrontation with Russia to the Europeans, Lavrov told reporters. We are not happy, of course, with the proposals made by members of the Trump team to postpone Ukraines admission to NATO for 20 years and to station British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, Lavrov continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice President-elect JD Vance outlined another plan on a podcast interview in Septemberwhich would allow Russia to keep the territory it has already occupied, as well as guarantee Ukraines neutrality. The foreign minister made no comment on these proposals, which are similar to a plan submitted by Russian President Vladimir Putin in June. On Monday, Lavrov also said only sitting President Joe Biden has the authority to negotiate with Russia until Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20., and was pessimistic about reestablishing diplomatic dialogue between the U.S. and Russia, even with the changing administration. Its not the first time Russian officials have cast doubt on the idea that the conflict, which broke out following a Russian invasion in February 2022, would come to a quick end. KYIV (Reuters) -Ukraine said on Tuesday it downed six of 21 missiles launched overnight and in the early morning by Russia, reporting minor damage in the capital of Kyiv and hits on infrastructure in the northern Sumy region. A woman was wounded in the Kyiv region, where a private house was damaged, the interior ministry said on Telegram. Missile debris damaged three private buildings and two cars in one of the capital's districts, Kyiv's military administration said on Telegram. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's air force said Russia's hypersonic Kinzhal missile was among the six downed. Russia fired a total of 13 missiles on the town of Shostka, in the northern Sumy region, its governor said in televised comments. The strike damaged 12 high-rise residential buildings, two educational facilities, three boiler houses and a clinic, according to local authorities. Some infrastructure was destroyed, it added. Moscow's forces also used 40 drones to attack the country. Air defence units shot down 16 of them and 24 more failed to reach targets, Ukraine's air force said. Russia's Defence Ministry said on Telegram it had carried a strike at a military airfield infrastructure and gunpowder charges production facility in Ukraine on Tuesday morning. It said all targets had been hit. Reuters could not independently verify the statement. (Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Alison Williams) The Financial Times has obtained access to 29 Russian military secret files from 2013-2014 with lists of targets, particularly nuclear power plants, for a potential war with Japan and South Korea. Source: Financial Times, citing Western sources Quote: "The strike plans, summarised in a leaked set of Russian military documents, cover 160 sites such as roads, bridges and factories, selected as targets to stop the 'regrouping of troops in areas of operational purpose'." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The documents obtained by the Financial Times reveal Moscow's intense focus on its eastern borders. Russian military strategists are concerned that in any conflict with NATO, the country's eastern territories would be exposed to vulnerabilities, including potential strikes from US forces and their regional partners. The newspaper points out that the files, primarily focused on preparing officers for a potential conflict along the country's eastern border between 2008 and 2014, remain relevant to Russia's current military strategy. The documents reveal previously undisclosed information about the principles behind nuclear weapons use, as well as scenarios for military simulations involving a Chinese invasion and strikes deep into Europe. The FT notes that Asia has become a key focus in Russian leader Vladimir Putin's strategy, not only for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine but also in the broader context of his confrontation with NATO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The list of targets in Japan and South Korea was part of a presentation aimed at showcasing the capabilities of the non-nuclear version of the Kh-101 cruise missile. The document bore the emblem of the Russian Armed Forces' Combined Arms Academy, an institution for training senior officers. The first 82 targets on the Russian list are military-related, including central and regional command headquarters of the Japanese and South Korean armed forces, radar installations, air bases and naval facilities. The rest are civilian infrastructure facilities, including road and railway tunnels in Japan, such as the tunnel connecting the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. Energy infrastructure is also a priority: the list includes 13 power plants, such as the Tokai nuclear plant and oil refineries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bridges are the main civilian targets in South Korea, but the list also includes industrial facilities such as steelworks in Pohang and chemical plants in Busan. "Russias plans show a confidence in its missile systems that has since been proven to be overstated," the FT writes. Support UP or become our patron! A house in Kyiv Oblast has been partially destroyed, and a woman has been injured as a result of a Russian missile attack on 31 December. Source: Kyiv Oblast Military Administration; State Emergency Service of Ukraine Details: A house in one of the settlements of the oblast was damaged as a result of falling debris from downed Russian targets. Windows were smashed and the roof was damaged. Aftermath of the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: State Emergency Service Quote from the authorities: "Sadly, a woman, 49, was injured. Doctors diagnosed her with concussion and an acute stress reaction. All necessary medical assistance is being provided." Support UP or become our patron! Russian missile and drone attacks injured at least one person and damaged residential buildings and infrastructure in Kyiv and Sumy oblasts on Dec. 31. Russian troops launched 21 missiles, including six Iskander ballistic missiles and one Kinzhal aeroballistic missile, and 40 drones overnight on Dec. 30-31. A woman in Kyiv Oblast was concussed after falling debris damaged the roof of a house and smashed its windows, according to the regional military administration. In the capital, missile wreckage fell onto the roof of a home in the Darnitskyi district. No casualties or damages were reported. Russian attacks also damaged infrastructure in the town of Shostka, Sumy Oblast, according to local government head Mykola Noha. While no fatalities have been recorded so far, the strikes damaged 12 residential buildings, two educational institutions, three boiler houses, a healthcare clinic, a dormitory, as well as other facilities. The damages and losses are still being clarified, Noha said. During the mass attack, Ukraine downed six missiles and 16 drones, Ukraine's Air Force said. A further 24 drones were decoys that failed to reach their target. Russia has not slowed down its attacks on Ukraine over the festive period. President Volodymr Zelenksy said on Dec. 29 that Moscow had escalated its aerial assaults on Ukraine during the holiday season. On Dec. 25, Russia conducted a large-scale Christmas attack, firing 78 missiles and 106 drones against multiple cities. Read also: Ukrainian sea drone downs Russian helicopter with anti-air missile in first strike of its kind Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Russia launched an aerial attack on Ukraine on Tuesday, striking the capital and other regions with multiple missiles and drones. Ukraines air force reported a ballistic missile threat at 3:00 a.m. (0100 GMT), with at least two explosions heard in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was issued at 8:00 a.m. followed by at least one explosion in the city. Missile debris fell in the Darnytskyi district of the capital with no reports of casualties or damage, the local administration said. Authorities in the northeastern Sumy region reported strikes near the city of Shostka, where the mayor, Mykola Noha, said 12 residential buildings had been damaged as well as two educational facilities. He said some social infrastructure objects were destroyed, without providing detail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The air force also reported missiles and drones targeting several other regions of Ukraine. In Moscow, the Russian Defense Ministry said that its forces successfully struck a Ukrainian air base and a gunpowder factory. Around half of Ukraines energy infrastructure has been destroyed during the war, and rolling electricity blackouts are common and widespread. Kyivs Western allies have provided air defense systems to help Ukraine protect critical infrastructure, but Russia has sought to overwhelm its air defenses with combined strikes involving large numbers of missiles and drones. Russian attacks come as uncertainty looms over the course of the nearly three-year conflict. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office next month, has vowed to end the war and has thrown into doubt whether vital U.S. military support for Kyiv will continue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will send an additional $2.5 billion in weapons to Ukraine as his administration works quickly to spend all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before Trump takes office. Ukraine has struck back at Russia with a steady barrage of missile and drone attacks throughout the year. Early Tuesday, Russia's Defense Ministry said that air defenses shot down 68 Ukrainian drones over several regions early Tuesday and sank eight uncrewed boats in the Black Sea. Head of the Smolensk region in western Russia, Vasily Anokhin, said drone fragments fell on the territory of an oil depot, sparking a blaze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Russia-occupied Crimea, the Moscow-appointed head of the city of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, said that Russian defenses downed four aerial drones attacking the city and sank two uncrewed boats near the shore. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Military Intelligence Directorate, known under its acronym GUR, claimed that one of its naval drones on Tuesday shot down a Russian helicopter with a missile, marking the first time when an aerial target was destroyed by an uncrewed vessel. It said a MaguraV5 naval drone downed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter with an R-73 missile near Cape Tarkhankut, the westernmost point of the Crimean peninsula. Another Russian helicopter was damaged but managed to reach an airfield, GUR said. Russia has held the initiative this year as its military has steadily rammed through Ukrainian defenses in the east in a series of slow but steady offensives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, in August, Ukraine launched a raid into Russias Kursk region that caught Moscow by surprise, dealing a significant blow to the Kremlins prestige. The Russian army has been able to reclaim some territory of the area there from Ukrainian forces but has failed to fully dislodge them. __ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine Serhii Popko, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration, has reported that Russian missile wreckage has fallen in Kyiv's Darnytskyi district. Source: Kyiv City Military Administration on Telegram Quote from Popko: "Early reports indicate that wreckage fell in the Darnytskyi district of Kyiv as a result of the missile strike. According to information being confirmed, the wreckage fell on the roof of a house." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Popko stated that there have been no fires or destruction and no reports of casualties have been received. "An air-raid warning is still in effect. Stay in shelters!" he emphasised. Background: The Russians launched attack drones towards Ukraine on the evening of 30 December. Ukraines Air Force said that there was a threat of a Russian ballistic missile strike on Kyiv and several other parts of Ukraine from the northeast on the night of 30-31 December. Air defence was responding in Kyiv. On the morning of 31 December, the Russians once again launched missiles on Ukraine. Explosions were heard in the city of Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast at around 08:00. Authorities reported that air defence systems were responding. Support UP or become our patron! Russia developed offensive plans targeting civilian and military sites in Japan and South Korea in the event of a war with NATO, the Financial Times reported on Dec. 31, citing documents shown to the outlet by Western sources. The leaked plans, drawn up between 2008 and 2014 to train military officers for a potential conflict on Russia's eastern flank, are reportedly still considered "relevant to Russian strategy" today. The documents outline 160 potential targets, including civilian and military infrastructure such as roads, bridges, factories, and military installations in NATO-allied Japan and South Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plans detailed how striking these targets could protect Russia's eastern flank in a broader conflict by disrupting the "regrouping of troops in areas of operational purpose." Military targets identified in the plans include the central and regional command headquarters of the Japanese and South Korean armed forces, radar installations, air bases, and naval facilities. Civilian infrastructure targets include roads, bridges, and rail tunnels. Other key sites include fuel refineries, industrial facilities such as steelworks and chemical factories in Busan, South Korea, and 13 power plants, including a nuclear complex in Tokai, Japan. Although the plans were drafted between 2008 and 2014, both Russia and NATO are now openly discussing the possibility of war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian Deputy Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, speaking at a Defense Ministry meeting on Dec. 16, said Russia needed to prepare for various scenarios, including a "potential conflict with NATO within the next decade." Belousov accused NATO of preparing for war, citing actions such as appointing a representative in Kyiv and supporting Ukraines NATO membership during the Alliance's 75th-anniversary summit in July 2024. On the Atlantic side, European NATO foreign ministers have begun discussing a gradual increase in the alliances defense spending target from 2% to 3% of GDP by 2030. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in particular advocated for a larger defense budget, saying: "If Putin attacks, we need to be able to wage war." Read also: Is NATO ready for war with Russia? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian troops launched a missile attack on the infrastructure of the Shostka hromada in Sumy Oblast on 31 December, destroying infrastructure facilities and damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and social facilities. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a city, town or village and its adjacent territory ed.] Source: Sumy Oblast Military Administration on Telegram; Mykola Noha, Head of Shostka hromada on Facebook Quote from the Oblast Military Administration: "Today, on 31 December, the enemy launched a missile attack on infrastructure facilities in the Shostka hromada. The aftermath of the Russian attack is being established." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Mykola Noha, Head of the Shostka hromada, said that the Russian strikes had caused destruction. Quote from Hoha: "Some infrastructure facilities have been destroyed. Twelve multi-storey residential buildings, two educational institutions, and other social facilities were damaged... Emergency rescue units are responding. Damage and losses are being assessed." Details: At around 09:00, Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported that Russians continued to hit infrastructure in the Shostka hromada with missiles and called on residents to take shelter. Background: The Russians launched attack drones towards Ukraine on the evening of 30 December. Ukraines Air Force said that there was a threat of a Russian ballistic missile strike on Kyiv and several other parts of Ukraine from the northeast on the night of 30-31 December. Air defence was responding in Kyiv. On the morning of 31 December, the Russians once again launched missiles on Ukraine. Explosions were heard in the city of Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast at around 08:00. Authorities reported that air defence systems were responding. Support UP or become our patron! VILNIUS, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Lithuanian Agriculture Minister Ignas Hofmanas has said Lithuania would not support the ratification of the free trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and the South American trade bloc Mercosur, according to local media reports. Hofmanas said the Rural Affairs Committee of the Lithuanian parliament, the Seimas, has adopted this decision. "The European Commission has promised a detailed explanation of the agreement, which we'd like to wait for, but for now, this is our stance," Hofmanas told local media LRT TV on Monday. In mid-December, the parliamentary committee proposed that the government oppose the agreement in the EU Council and align with other member states blocking it, citing concerns from Lithuanian farmers about unfair competition. "Our agricultural sector is especially affected when it comes to meat - poultry and beef. Since we grow most of our agricultural produce and export a significant share, I don't think this agreement offers us any opportunity," Hofmanas said. Vytenis Tomkus, a former deputy agriculture minister, previously said the agreement could benefit Lithuania economically by boosting exports of agricultural and food products. However, Lithuanian farmers' organizations warn of significant risks from Mercosur bloc products entering the EU market, highlighting potential negative effects on Lithuania's agricultural sector, environmental goals, and food safety standards. Eric Olson sat on the couch with his family on an afternoon last July, his attention split between the television and his phone. As Olson scrolled through his phone, a surprising text appeared on the screen. I suddenly have access to a 178-foot ship that sank intact in 1878. Its still full of rye ... can you bring it back to life? the text message read. The message was from Chad Munger, founder of Mammoth Distilling. For years, Munger and Olson, a plant breeder at Michigan State University, have been on a quest to resurrect historical varieties of rye used to make whiskey, hoping to revive Michigan's rye industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 178-foot ship Munger referred to was the James R. Bentley, a wooden schooner that sank in Lake Huron, just north of Rogers City, Michigan, on Nov. 12, 1878. The Bentley departed from Chicago, bound for Buffalo, New York, with a shipment full of rye, when it encountered fierce, gale-force winds typical of November. The schooner struck a shoal and sank. The entire crew survived, but the rye was lost to the depths of the lake that is, until last September. The Bentley is one of only a few privately owned shipwrecks in Michigan, all others are owned by the state, protected from divers removing or destroying artifacts. Its owned by Paul Ehorn, a shipwreck enthusiast who found the barely legible manifest showing there were 36,000 bushels of rye that went down with the ship. That was the spark right there, Olson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2019, Olson and Munger have been able to reintroduce Rosen rye, a kind of winter rye, back to South Manitou Island, where it was once grown in isolation to prevent cross-pollination, which can reduce the quality of the grain. The island is off the northwest coast of Michigan's lower peninsula. The Rosen rye seeds, however, came from the U.S. Department of Agriculture seed bank in Idaho not from the depths of Lake Huron, where they had been buried underwater for 146 years. And the Bentley seeds even precede the Rosen variety. But the quest to resurrect century-old rye goes beyond crafting a great whiskey. Its about connecting people to agriculture by weaving together a compelling story in the process. We are using a story about the past to help us develop the future of agriculture, Olson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: The legendary gales of November left the Great Lakes strewn with tragic shipwrecks Michigan was once the lead supplier of rye to distilleries Before Prohibition, which occurred from 1920 to 1933, Michigan was the largest rye-producing state in the country. The grain is used in bread-making as well as whiskey production. The historical Rosen rye variety, named after Joseph Rosen, started being grown commercially on South Manitou Island in 1912. Thats when the state became one of the lead suppliers to distilleries, even those in Kentucky. Following Prohibition, the rye industry in the U.S. collapsed as many distilleries shifted to corn-based bourbon due to its lower cost. Since then, rye has largely been used as a cover crop to keep the soil moist and nutrients in place during winter months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. is one of the largest importers of rye in the world, mainly from Canada and Germany. Eric Olson, a plant breeder at Michigan State University, holds a container full of rye seeds from the James R. Bentley, a schooner that sank in Lake Huron in 1878. Olson and Chad Munger, founder of Mammoth Distilling in Michigan, are on a quest to resurrect historical varieties of rye to make whiskey and revive Michigan's rye industry. Olson and Munger are trying to return Michigan to the spotlight as a producer of high-quality rye. And as of 2024, theyve now planted a thousand acres of rye on South Manitou Island, Olson said. Like most rye whiskey, Rosen rye carries the signature spicy clove flavor, but it also produces a rich amount of oil, giving it a distinctive, viscous mouthfeel, according to Munger. The distillery is just beginning to age the whiskey, which will allow the flavors to develop and become more complex. Finding out exactly what it will taste like once it matures will be another exciting discovery, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Are Lake Erie's algae blooms home to the next pharmaceutical drug? Some scientists think so. More: Scientists just discovered cold, dark sinkholes in Lake Michigan. What's living in them? 19th-century seeds were no longer viable Last September, Munger organized a team that dove to the Bentley, which lies 165 feet below Lake Hurons surface. The team retrieved several large tubes with the Bentley rye seeds to take back to Michigan State University to see if Olson could get them to grow. Olson, along with other scientists, tried three different methods to get the seeds to germinate, but 19th-century seeds were no longer viable. An expedition team led by Michigan State University retrieves rye seeds from the James R. Bentley, a schooner that sank in Lake Huron in 1878. That doesnt mean the story ends there, though, because what we did get was DNA, and DNA is forever, Olson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Olson, along with other scientists, will extract the DNA and sequence the genome of the Bentley rye seeds to learn more about the grain, like where it originated. Then, they will fill in the gaps of the Bentley rye genome and put the DNA into modern rye varieties. The duo estimates that the new variety will be ready by 2029, with seeds ready to be planted by 2030. Michigan State University scientists tried different methods to get the rye seeds from the James R. Bentley wreck to germinate, but the 19th-century seeds were no longer viable. Now, the team plans to extract DNA from the seeds and sequence them to re-create a historical rye variety. You become a part of the story The Bentley Rye Project has two main goals: create opportunities for growers and strengthen the connection between people and agriculture. By introducing Bentley rye, growers will gain an additional crop option that promises better yields and improved performance, ultimately benefiting their operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond supporting local farmers, Munger envisions a future where Michigan becomes a prominent destination for agritourism, similar to California's Napa Valley or the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The vision is rooted in Michigan's rich agricultural history, where crops like rye have long played a vital role. "You become a part of the story when you drink that whiskey," Olson said. More: We know more about the surface of Mars than about the floor of Lake Michigan. But what we do know is remarkable. Caitlin Looby is a Report for America corps member who writes about the environment and the Great Lakes. Reach her at clooby@gannett.com, follow her on X @caitlooby and learn more about her reporting. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rye seeds from Great Lakes shipwreck could lead to new craft whiskey The dismissal of a hospital porter who refused to wear a face mask during the Covid pandemic was fair, a tribunal has ruled. Graham Fordham told managers at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow, north-west London, that he would not wear a mask when moving patients around wards because he did not like things obstructing his face. The night porter, who had been working in the role for 20 years, was off work for nine months before bosses decided to sack him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He sued his employer Compass Group, a service provider, for unfair dismissal and disability discrimination, but his claims were dismissed by an employment tribunal in Watford. In March 2021, a nurse complained about Mr Fordham wearing his mask below his nose, the tribunal heard. He was spoken to by management, but soon afterwards began turning up to work without a mask and wearing an exemption badge, the tribunal was told. Alternatives to mask were not possible During the pandemic, the Government introduced a requirement for people to wear face coverings in certain circumstances, including in hospitals. Mr Fordham was called in for a meeting, at which he told management that masks made him feel anxious and that he could not breathe when wearing one, the tribunal heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The porter who had experienced anxiety and depression since 2012 was suspended with pay so he could be referred to occupational health. He was invited to look at other roles within the hospital, the tribunal was told, but none were suitable because they all required him to wear a mask. Having been suspended and signed off work for nine months, hospital management concluded that he was unlikely to return and he was sacked in December 2021. Mr Fordhams claims of unfair dismissal and disability discrimination were dismissed, with the employment judge concluding that alternative measures to wearing a mask, such as social distancing, were not possible. Despite the relaxation of mask-wearing within the general population, the evidence before the tribunal was that this would not be changed within Mr Fordhams NHS setting, the judge said. There was no suggestion that the requirement to wear a mask in clinical settings was due to end at any time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of his key duties was to transport patients within the hospital setting. This would not only see him come into contact with the patient, but also with a number of other individuals. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The deck log of a commissioned U.S. Navy ship is generally not the place to mess around. In that humble book, a ships officer of the deck (OOD) meticulously notes vital information on weather, sea state, status of the engineering plant, the ships course and speed, along with other mission-critical factors. But in the earliest hours of New Years Day, during the mid-watch from midnight to 3 a.m. or 4 a.m., the OOD can let their respective poetic prowess shine through, and write their deck log entry in poem form. The New Years deck log entry is a tradition that dates back nearly a century, to 1929, according to the Navy. Sometimes, the OOD will hand the deck log poem duties to another sailor who has a bit more writerly flair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It arguably reached its height during the Vietnam War, when deck log poems became so popular that Navy Times held an annual contest to feature the best of the bunch, according to the National Archives. But as writing increasingly takes a back seat to the phone and other electronic mediums, this Naval tradition has been in decline, and fewer than 20 ships in the nearly 300-ship fleet penned a mid-watch verse as of 2017. But its a cool tradition nonetheless, and we are glad to bring you a selection of deck log poems from Navy bridges over the years. Check out the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command to read more New Years Naval poetry from throughout the years too. All the best to you and yours. Well see you next year. Quartermaster Seaman Isaiah Kiel reads a New Years poem as Quartermaster Seaman Dalton Rodgers enters it as the first official deck log entry of 2019 aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) in 2019. (U.S. Navy) USS Gilmer (DD-233), 1942 Navy destroyer USS Gilmer (DD-233). (U.S. Navy) The ship: This destroyer went right to work in the Pacific after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, conducting submarine patrols and escort duties. It went into a Washington state yard in late 1942 to become a fast transport ship, and was in the Pacific Northwest when Lt. j.g. L.C. Brogger penned his ships New Years deck log entry. The USS Gilmers (DD-233) New Years deck log poem for 1942. (U.S. Navy) The poem: Were anchored in Port Townsend, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the anchor at short stay. Ready for any emergency, In a minute to get underway. Point Wilson bears three sixteen true From where the anchor lies; The bearing of the light-on-dock Is two seven nought, likewise. The chain is thirty fathoms long The water, seven deep; The Skippers in his nice soft bunk Deep in a New Years sleep. He hasnt had one like it For this is the thirtieth day, Weve hunted Nippon submarines From their base at Crescent Bay. We havent found a single one, Despite what fliers say; Their logs and roots and trees and stumps Have kept us underway. Young Blatz is on the sound gear, And Bowles is on the phones, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shellers on a machine gun But his thoughts are on his home. Tis the night before New Years And all through the ship Not a creature is stirring Except Judkins the drip. Hes breaking in the galley To rustle up some Joe, Cause the wind is blowing briskly And the temperature is low. Mortons in the engine room Keeping his turbines hot. The Boatswains Mate is Coxswain Rink Sleeping like as not. Ive tried to rhyme my log today But the Navigators sure to say, Write it up in the regular way. USS Thresher (SSN-593), 1963 The submarine USS Thresher (SSN-593). (U.S. Navy) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The submarine: The first of its class, Threshers story is a tragic one, as the boat sunk at sea in April 1963, mere months after this deck log poem was written. All 129 officers, sailors and civilian technicians on board died. It was also the worlds first nuclear-powered submarine to be lost at sea. To this day, Thresher serves as a grim reminder of how dangerous it is to serve in the Navys Silent Service. Still, Lt. J.S. Lyman brought the sailor sarcasm big time at the top of his poem. This entry is dedicated to the unknown, unrated and unnecessary yeoman at NavPers who so faithfully and capably reads, notes, files and forgets my continuing and constant efforts through the year, Lyman wrote. The poem: Now read, good yeoman, and you shall see Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How THRESHER met the best year yet and first of 63 The temperature was zero or maybe just below And the winds whistled sharply, from stern to open bow. The skies were clear, although to the waters west Appeared a few broken clouds, call it Scattered at best. It hardly bears repeating you must know as well as I That THRESHER lies in Dry Dock just as high and dry As on previous days weeks months (Forgive the crossovers, please, yeo, just this once) Not a soul is missing, weve mustered our whole flock The ship still stands, with all hands, in #2 Dock Or did you believe that we might leave Our protected spot on New Years Eve? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still receiving AC power, as reported before With miscellaneous services brought from the shore. Units of the Fleets, Atlantic and Reserve Are still joined with us in our private preserve. At dock or on block, moored with wire or manila hemp Spring line or breast line, were all at PORTSMOUTH, New Hamp. There has been no demotion, or significant promotion In this misbegotten, all but forgotten corner of the ocean And the most rank of us on AEOLUS is SOPA still you see. (Lest you forget, the number yet, remains as ARC-3.) Thus ends my missive for tonight, the very first this year Through past performance indicates, not the very last I fear! USS Farragut (DDG-99), 2024 Navy destroyer USS Farragut (DDG-99) returns to Naval Station Mayport, Florida, in February following a deployment. (U.S. Navy) The ship: Flash-forwarding to our last New Year, the Navy has continued a deck log poem contest, and this entry from Quartermaster 2nd Class (SW) Anthony Bentley took the top prize, scoring the sailor an engraved piece of USS Constitution, aka Old Ironsides, as well as a certificate and a commanders coin. Hopefully Bentley got some rest too, those mid-watch shifts must be brutal. Rested or not, QM2 deftly balanced a light, breezy tone while ensuring the essentials were covered. Bravo Zulu! The deck log from the Navy destroyer USS Farragut (DDG-99). (U.S. Navy) The poem: Twas the night before wait; what did I say? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forgive me, Ive mixed up the wrong holiday. For you see, on the seas, it can get quite mundane. This week alone, thrice, Ive been called the wrong name! And rank, and rate, and gender no less, But whoosah, breath in, theres no time to stress. For its New Years Day, if youre wondering when, So with that, let me start over again: Once upon in a time in a land far away Wed returned to fourth fleet for one more underway. Catching drug smugglers the name of the mission, Disguised as small boats supposedly fishin. Like bloodhounds fresh on a new T.O.I., Flight quarters away and its time to fly. LEDET attached always second to none, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Simply shining their guns til its time for some fun. Id hate to be smugglers, cuz theyre going to jail. Operating area: the Caribbean Sea, blue, Steaming independently, just the 99 crew. Well see so many islands! the Captain did say, But all that we saw was Guantanamo Bay. I must include plant status or theyll throw a cow, And use my rotting corpse as a temporary brow. So 1A, 1+2 A/Cs running online #1 reefer cooling rations just fine 2B GTM, 1+2 GTG, EMCON Condition Delta, readiness condition III. SWSP 1+2+5 ready, And FP 2+5 Pumping firemain steady. Look at that, worked it all in, oh arent I clever? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Though I cant tell a lie, it took me forever.) With the countdown complete, I can lay to my rack; [Redacted] OOD, keeps the ship right on track. [Redacted], the Conn, eyes forward and keen, Through the night, ensures no contact goes unseen. Dreams of holiday routine, Ill quickly shelve, For I must be up early for the 09-12. Happy New Year to all from our tropical tour, We look forward to the Yards all 2024. Happy New Years, everyone. Contact the author: geoff@twz.com Dec. 30State regulators and the owners of the now-shuttered Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics plant in Merrimack are on a collision course over the best way to reduce harm to the public from PFAS "forever" chemicals lingering in nearby soil and groundwater. Demolition of the site began last month and will last through much of 2025, company officials said. But signs point to a dispute over a final remediation plan for the property and surrounding areas that may linger much beyond that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are looking for a remedy that in a meaningful way will reduce the massive amount of contamination that comes from air emissions of PFAS that went on for decades," said Michael Wimsatt, director of the state Department of Environmental Services' Waste Management Division. "The company has submitted a remediation plan in May 2023 and an updated one to respond to some of our concerns. Their plan just misses the mark and is inadequate." Saint-Gobain agreed to treat water delivered to more than 1,600 residences and businesses in a six-town area under consent agreements that compel the company to maintain these efforts. Company officials said their long-term response would combine "institutional controls" and "natural attenuation." This does not involve either excavation of soil or extensive treatment of the groundwater, but use of the site would be limited and the company would continue to monitor the pollution as chemical levels decrease gradually over time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wimsatt said there are many ways to proactively reduce contamination, from excavating large amounts of soil to treating the groundwater and creating barrier walls to prevent it from further leaching to the sensitive nearby Dumpling Brook and eventually to the Merrimack River, the latter a critical drinking water source for communities in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. "At this point, we aren't trying to dictate that technology," Wimsatt said. "We want them to propose a remedy that works. They have not done that yet." In a follow-up report in February, Ross W. Bennett and Alistair P.T. Macdonald, assistant vice presidents with Saint-Gobain, said those elaborate cleanup efforts would be expensive and time-consuming and would not provide any better long-term risk reduction than what the company has proposed. "There is no risk to human health due to direct contact with soils," they wrote at one point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The soil excavation would require five feet of material to be removed more than 16,000 cubic yards, involving more than 2,000 truck trips, they said. Logistical concerns would include "the need for clearing and regrading of approximately 2 acres of land, development of heavy-equipment access roads, related permitting, including potential endangered species reviews, and agreements with the property owners," the two Saint-Gobain officials said. Treatment of groundwater could involve maintenance of infrastructure for many years on private property not owned by Saint-Gobain. In the state's latest answer last October, Andrew Fuller, an environmental scientist in Wimsatt's division, reminded Saint-Gobain it signed a consent decree agreeing to remediate PFAS levels in groundwater "in all areas but source areas." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "NHDES anticipates that any remedial action that is implemented will be costly, time-consuming, and potentially difficult to implement; however, these factors do not absolve Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics from managing the site ... and implementing a remedy that will address the releases associated with operations at their facility," Fuller concluded. Saint-Gobain officials have since defended their plan, saying it is consistent with "appropriate industry and environmental practices." The company has until the middle of next month to formally respond to the state, but Wimsatt doesn't expect that will end this dispute. "This is a unique challenge," he said. "We don't expect it to be resolved any time soon but in the name of public health, it's certainly worth the time and effort to get it right." klandrigan@unionleader.com Gusty winds and low humidities are expected to return to Southern California this week, prompting officials to raise fire warning levels. The Santa Ana conditions will start setting up tomorrow, KTLA meteorologist Henry DiCarlo said Tuesday. Thats when we will start seeing an offshore wind. That means it will dry out the atmosphere and warm things up a little bit. The National Weather Service has already elevated its fire weather level to include Tuesday evening through Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elevated to critical fire weather conditions across portions of LA and Ventura Co due to the combination of gusty Santa Ana winds, very low humidities, and dry fuels, the Weather Service posted on X. (National Weather Service) A red flag warning has been issued for some local wind-prone mountains, including the Santa Monica, Santa Susana and San Gabriel mountains from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening. Wind gusts to 45 mph are expected in the mountain areas with some coastal regions reaching up to 30 mph, according to the weather service. Cooler temperatures and cloudier skies are expected to return for the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Dec. 30Santa Fe Public Works and Utilities Director John Dupuis was arrested over the weekend after he was accused of stealing a box that had been checked as another passenger's luggage at the Santa Fe Regional Airport. Police allege in a statement of probable cause Dupuis told officers who arrived at his home late Friday night he had taken the box, described as an "old microwave box," because he thought it belonged to a friend and had not yet had a chance to return it to the airport after realizing his mistake. "John provided no proof to support his claims," the statement says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dupuis was booked into the Santa Fe County jail early Saturday on a fourth-degree felony charge of larceny between $500 and $2,500. He faces a maximum penalty of up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine, along with court costs, Santa Fe County Magistrate Judge John Rysanek said at a court hearing Monday afternoon. Dupuis, who was released on his own recognizance, told the judge he would seek private legal representation. He did not respond to a request for comment Monday afternoon. City spokeswoman Regina Ruiz wrote in an email Monday that Dupuis had been placed on administrative leave without pay and that Water Division Director Jesse Roach will oversee the Public Utilities Department on an interim basis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dupuis, who has been the director of the Public Utilities Department since February 2023, earns $68.55 an hour, or $142,584 annually, according to Ruiz. The statement of probable cause, filed Monday in Magistrate Court, says a couple who had flown into the Santa Fe Regional Airport from Denver on Friday contacted police after discovering one of their checked items was missing. The box, which contained Christmas presents with a combined value of over $1,000, had reached the airport ahead of them but was not there when they arrived, they said. An officer who responded to the couple's report reviewed airport security video, which showed a man later identified as Dupuis taking the box from the baggage claim area, the statement says. According to the statement, Dupuis had picked up two of his own checked bags Friday afternoon, one of which contained a firearm. He was one of a handful of people remaining in the baggage claim area when an airport employee announced a last call for bags about a half-hour later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "John appears to look around, approaches the old microwave box, and took a picture of it with his phone, and later claimed it as his own," the statement says. It does not provide details on whether Dupuis had been on personal or business travel. He drove away from the airport in a Ford F-150 truck licensed to the city, which he was authorized to operate, around 1:30 p.m. Friday. Officers went to his home later that day "and observed the stolen luggage in the bed of the truck with its contents scattered around," according to the statement of probable cause. The officers detained Dupuis, who agreed to speak with them without an attorney present. The affidavit alleges he admitted to taking a photo of the box and said he believed it belonged to a friend named Jeff, but realized his mistake after leaving the airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He stated that he opened the box, went through the items, and found they did not belong to Jeff," the affidavit says. "John further claimed that he planned to return the box and the contents to the airport but had not done so yet." Neither member of the couple who owned box a man and a woman is named Jeff. It was "clearly marked" with the woman's name, according to the statement. The box included Lego sets, canvas paintings, a leather pouch, clothes and other items, according to the affidavit. Officers collected the items and notified the owners. Dupuis' case is scheduled for a status conference hearing Jan. 29, according to online court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He faces an administrative investigation as well as the criminal investigation, city officials said. Interim City Manager Randy Randall told The New Mexican on Saturday he had no information about Dupuis' arrest at the time but noted the city would conduct an administrative investigation into the incident. "We are very hopeful this is some sort of misunderstanding," Randall wrote in an email. Ruiz wrote in an email Monday the city "will cooperate with any criminal investigation and will also conduct its own administrative investigation," which will be managed by the human resources and legal divisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dupuis was arrested on a drunken driving charge in 2019 when he was a Santa Fe County employee. The charge was later dismissed, however, according to online court records. He has played a prominent role in recent years in leading the city's efforts, with Wastewater Management Division Director Michael Dozier, to get the wastewater treatment plant on Paseo Real back into compliance with state and federal discharge permits. The aging facility has suffered from a series of maintenance failures since spring 2023 requiring millions of dollars in repair work. The city is scheduled to have a hearing before the Water Quality Control Commission in April. Earlier this month, Dupuis spoke at two City Council committee meetings about potential long-term options for the wastewater plant's future. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) The Original Pinkie Masters, the oldest running bar in downtown Savannah, is known for its vintage decor, cheap beer and, most notably, a very famous regular. The bar, located on Drayton Street, was one of former President Jimmy Carters favorites. According to Savannah lore, Carter jumped atop the bar to announce his candidacy for president. That story has since been debunked, but its one everyone knows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You know, you look around at this bar, I dont know if too many people are going to let the truth get in the way of a good story, said Andrew Walker, manager of Pinkie Masters. Former President Carters Habitat for Humanity legacy lives on Though Carter has jumped atop the bar in celebration, once in a tribute to Pinkies original owner and the former presidents good friend, Luis Christopher Masterpolis. Jimmy Carter at The Original Pinkie Masters, a staple Savannah dive bar. (Savannah Morning News) Theres a ton of pictures of them together, said Walker. They look very comfortable around one another. They look very chummy. One regular, Billy Walker, who comes into the bar every day, has personal ties to Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I served aboard a ship in Vietnam, from which Adm. Stansfield Turner was the captain, Walker said. He and Jimmy Carter were roommates in Annapolis. He, being Stansfield Turner, spoke extremely highly of Jimmy Carter all the time. Walker shared a common sentiment many believe about Carters legacy. I have nothing bad to say about the former president, and Im a Republican, he said. He was unbelievable, just unbelievable. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. TOWANDA, Pa. (WETM) A Sayre man will spend up to five years in prison for threatening someone with a knife over the summer. The Bradford County District Attorneys Office reported that Kevin D. Learn Jr., 36, was sentenced to a minimum of 18 months and a maximum of five years in state prison. This sentencing stems from a second-degree felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon conviction. Authorities say an officer from the Sayre Borough Police Department arrested Learn in August 2024 after he threatened another person with a knife during a domestic abuse incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. The 19th annual South Carolina Statehouse Menorah Lighting took place Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) COLUMBIA In darker times, we always look for the light. That was the message conveyed by leaders of South Carolinas Jewish community during the annual menorah lighting on the Statehouse steps. The rabbis and political leaders spoke hopefully, even as the shadow of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants in southern Israel continues to hang over the eight-day festival of lights more than a year later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The surprise attackers killed more than 1,200 people and took more than 200 people hostage, some of whom remain captive. As Hanukkah reminds us, the light of Israel, of the Jewish people and of all who stand for life and freedom will prevail over evil and darkness, Anat Sultan-Dadon, consul general of Israel to the Southeastern United States, said to applause. Thank you all for your friendship, for celebrating light with us today. May it soon also reach our 100 remaining hostages, men, women and children who are still being held in brutal captivity in Gaza, she continued. Israel will not rest, and no member of the free world should rest, until they are all home. Kate Nordstrom, of Lexington attended the 19th annual menorah lighting with her daughters, Eliza, 6, and Madi, 3, held Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, on the Statehouse steps. While not Jewish themselves, the family came to support friends. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) One attendee, Leah Kates of Columbia, was born in Israel and said the devastation of the attack stays with her every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement War erupted between Israel and Palestine in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack, with a death toll that has surpassed 44,000 in the Gaza Strip, according to local health officials, The Associated Press reported last month. Robin ODonnell of Columbia brought her two elementary school sons out to the menorah lighting for the first time this year, saying they are now getting old enough to understand the meaning behind it. The origins of Hanukkah go back to a different war fought more than 2,000 years ago. A small group of Jews, known as the Maccabees, defeated Syrian-Greek forces to reclaim the desecrated Second Temple of Jerusalem. The holiday celebrates the rededication of the temple, when oil that was expected to light the menorah for one day burned for eight, becoming a symbol both literal and metaphorical of a light in the dark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While ODonnell and her sons celebrated Monday with sufganiyot and latkes, she said theyve also had more serious conversations about how the Jewish people are still fighting today. The Kates and ODonnell families were among some 200 people gathered for the 19th annual Isadore E. Lourie Memorial Hanukkah Menorah Lighting, named for the late state Sen. Isadore Lourie, who founded the Jewish Historical Society of South Carolina in 1994 after 30 years in the Legislature. Rep. Beth Bernstein, D-Columbia, lights the candles of the menorah on South Carolinas Statehouse steps Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) Let this menorah lighting ceremony serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to stand against all forms of hatred, discrimination, intolerance, particularly antisemitism, said Rep. Beth Bernstein. Let us promote unity and respect among all communities, fostering a world where diversity is celebrated and differences are embraced, and the glow of these candles, she continued. May the light of unity and hope shine brightly, not only during this festive season, but throughout the year, guiding us towards a future filled with peace, understanding and good will for all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Columbia Democrat is the states only current Jewish legislator. She was joined by former state Sen. Joel Lourie, whose father is the events namesake. We live in the greatest country in the world where symbols like a menorah and a Christmas tree can be displayed together without fear of persecution or prosecution, Lourie said. For his entire life, my father shared his pride that only in America could he be a proud Jew but also a proud American. Earlier in the day, Gov. Henry McMaster had issued a proclamation naming January 2025 South Carolina Interfaith Harmony Month. The governor, in the proclamation, called for all South Carolinians to foster compassion and appreciation for the different faiths, beliefs and cultures found in the Palmetto State. Former state Sen. Joel Lourie speaks at the 19th annual menorah lighting Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, on the Statehouse steps. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) Events are scheduled throughout January celebrating numerous faiths, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, the Bahai and Unitarian Universalist faiths, and others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Mondays event, Lourie and others also paid tribute to the late former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday. Carters death came a little more than 45 years to the day since he became the first U.S. president to participate in a public menorah lighting at Lafayette Park near the White House on the fourth night of Hanukkah in 1979, said Rabbi Hesh Epstein, one of the leaders of Chabad South Carolina. He openly endorsed what was then the controversial idea of a public menorah lighting ceremony that is now being performed in 15,000 communities around the world, Epstein said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A clash between BlackRock (BLK) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) over the money managers holdings of US banks will now play out in the waning days of President Joe Bidens administration. The FDIC has asked BlackRock to sign by Jan. 10 a "passivity agreement" that would codify greater checks on the money managers holdings of FDIC-supervised lenders, according to people familiar with the matter, pushing back a deadline that was previously Dec. 31 of this year. The agreement FDIC has asked BlackRock to sign is similar to one announced last week with another giant money manager, Vanguard Group, that imposes new compliance requirements when the manager amasses more than 10% of all outstanding stock in an FDIC-supervised bank. BlackRock spent much of 2024 resisting the FDICs push for greater oversight, denying that the asset manager exerts undue control over companies through its investment stewardship activities. As recently as December, the giant Wall Street firm proposed an arrangement with the FDIC that didn't include the same level of oversight agreed to by Vanguard. The FDIC did not respond to BlackRock's proposal until announcing its Vanguard settlement, according to one of the people familiar with the matter. The tug of war between BlackRock and FDIC is the latest example of rising D.C. scrutiny of BlackRock, which oversees $11 trillion in assets. For years, the financial giant has been a target of GOP attacks about "woke" investing. Republicans have raised concerns about whether BlackRocks massive holdings in US corporations force companies to adopt environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. And Democrats have for years also been leery about whether the heft of BlackRock could pose risks to the financial system. The BlackRock logo is seen outside of its New York City headquarters. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images) Michael M. Santiago via Getty Images The "passivity" agreement FDIC wants BlackRock to sign is designed to assure bank regulators that the giant money manager will remain a "passive" owner of an FDIC-supervised bank and wont exert control over a banks board. Currently, BlackRock only has such an agreement with the Federal Reserve. Now the FDIC wants its own agreement with the money manager, which is also permitted under law. In July, FDIC board member Rohit Chopra described the FDIC's lack of oversight of passive asset manager stakes as "highly inappropriate" and a shirking of "the responsibility Congress entrusted to us." "Certain sectors of our economy are critical infrastructure for our country," added Chopra, who is also the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. "We dont let just anyone own a nuclear power plant or operate a bridge." In his New Year's address, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has promised to continue supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Source: an address by Scholz, quoted by the German newspaper Die Zeit and reported by European Pravda Details: In the address, recorded for television and made public before the broadcast on Tuesday, he said that Germany would continue to support Ukraine but at the same time promised that the government would "keep a cool head so that the war does not spread". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Many citizens are looking at Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine with a growing sense of anxiety. I can assure you that we will not leave Ukraine in the lurch and will support it like no other country in Europe," Scholz said. Background: Earlier in December, Scholz had a telephone conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump. During the conversation, the parties "agreed that Russia's war on Ukraine has been going on for far too long and that it is essential to move as quickly as possible towards a just, equitable and enduring peace". Earlier, Scholz expressed the opinion that his opposition to the supply of long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine was in line with Trump's position. Support UP or become our patron! AUSTIN (Nexstar) In two weeks the Texas Legislature will be back in session in Austin to deliberate on thousands of bills a historic amount that have already been pre-filed. Historically only about 15% of bills filed at the Texas Capitol are actually passed, meaning lawmakers will have to prioritize what they want to get done. State Republicans, who will hold a healthy majority in both chambers of the Capitol, have made it clear one of the top priorities this session will be school choice. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick already said it was his top priority and Gov. Greg Abbott said Republicans have the votes needed to pass. We do not yet know the specifics of the school choice bill, but state Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, explained, I think well have a full universal bill this time around just as we did last time around, and I expect there to be a priority set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School choice is not the only focus for state Republicans this year. Abraham George, the chair of the Texas Republican Party, said there are 11 priorities for the Texas GOP. It starts with the border security, election integrity, all the way down to property tax reform, George explained. On the other side of the aisle there is new leadership. House Democratic members elected state Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, to be the chair of the House Democratic Caucus. Wu said the party will be working on a minimum wage increase, making insurance prices cheaper and looking at making housing more affordable. When are we going to do all these things that are just slowly strangling Texans across the board, Rep. Wu questioned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both parties seem to have a common ground to stand on when it comes to affordability issues in the state. Both sides have expressed support for looking at housing affordability and lowering property taxes. Texans want Republicans and Democrats to come together and figure out how to lower costs and make it affordable to live in this state again, state Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin, said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) One of the big stories coming out of the state capitol in Nashville focused on where your child can go to school. Governor Bill Lees voucher program, which would be available in all 95 counties, would allow state tax dollars to cover tuition for a student going to a private school. In April, with staffers behind the scenes saying the bill was on quote Life support, the Senate and House were unable to come together on certain stipulations. This essentially killed the bill for the time being. The governor expressed his disappointment but also vowed not to give up as he told 6 News Lori Tucker in August. From Helene to the deadly shooting of a deputy: East TNs top headlines in 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Changing the status quo is hard. And we have had the status quo for a long time. But were seeing that change across the country. There is a growing awareness that parents know best and we ought to empower parents to make those choices, said Lee. As the debate continues, the issue of school vouchers, now referred to by the governor as School choice, will again be a hot topic during the upcoming session at the beginning of the new year. Another hot-button issue that had parents and lawmakers debating was a bill that would allow teachers and staff to carry guns in schools. The bill went into effect immediately after Lee signed it into law in April. One of the stipulations, any armed teacher or staff member would have to take part in at least 40 hours of training as well as undergo criminal and mental health background checks. The bill also notes that school administrators would have to ok any members to carry in their school. No Tennessee school district has announced plans to arm teachers yet Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We asked Knox County Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk in August if he had been approached by any school members wishing to carry on campus. He said, at the time, he had not. Weve had a commitment for many decades to have an officer in every school. I think our folks are very confident in that. Ive said time and time again that a trained officer in every building is the best defense because there is not just one threat to our schools, said Rysewyk. Staying with bills focused on schools, a Middle Tennessee lawmaker filed a bill to limit cellphone use in the classroom. State Representative Scott Cepicky introduced House Bill 13. It would require school boards to adopt policies that prohibit students from using wireless communication devices during class time with some exceptions. For example, if students are using them for educational purposes approved by the teacher, in the event of an emergency or to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. In a release, Cepicky said the law is designed to Improve attentiveness in the classroom. The bill will be taken up in the next legislative session which begins on January 14. Shifting to November, where Election Day saw a lot of red across Tennessee. In the run for the White House, the majority of Tennesseans cast their vote for former president Donald Trump. The now, president-elect, pulled in just over 64% of the vote to vice president Kamala Harris 39.4%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The numbers were similar in the race for one of the states two senate seats. The Republican incumbent, Marsha Blackburn won with just under 65% of the vote while her Democratic challenger, Knoxvilles Gloria Johnson, pulled in 34.2%. Closer to home, an amendment on the ballot that aimed to change how the City of Knoxville elects its city council members failed with 49% in support to 51% against. This means there will now be a primary within the citys six council districts with the top two vote-getters in each primary moving on to the general election, but only in their district. There would still be three at-large seats as well. What Im glad about is that the transition was not an all or nothing. From no At Large to all At Large. What I understand its still 6-3 meaning theres still some ability for city citizens to pick their best person out of the rest of the group along with their own geography, said Mark OGorman, Maryville College Political Science Professor. Tennessees economy expected to grow faster than the U.S. average in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How we get around was also a hot topic in 2024. Though not built yet, Choice Lanes had a lot of people talking. According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation, these will be additional lanes that use pricing to proactively manage demand and provide travel time reliability. The lanes will allow drivers to maintain a consistent travel speed, even when adjacent lanes are congested. For Knoxville, choice lanes have been proposed for the west side of town where I-40 and I-75 become one. This is the area between downtown and the I-40/75 split. With that said, it will still be some time before East Tennessee sees any construction as TDOT plans to build its first stretch of choice lanes in Middle Tennessee in 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. AI is being used in the U.K. to hand out squirrel contraception, which conservationists hope can save an imperiled species. Squirrel Agent is a new software tool trained to distinguish between red and grey squirrels with 97% accuracy, BBC reported. Grey squirrels arrived in the country around 200 years ago and are largely responsible for the population decline of the native reds, partly due to a virus they carry that is lethal to red squirrels. To help solve the problem, Squirrel Agent automatically controls squirrel feeders once it has identified who is visiting. Only reds get access to feeders with food, while greys get access to feeders with contraceptive paste. Should the government be paying people to hunt invasive species? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind "It's a real showcase of what AI can do," Emma McClenaghan, co-founder of Genysys Engine, which developed the tool, told BBC. "It's working in real time to do a task that we don't have enough [human] volunteers to do." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not the first time conservationists have used AI tools to help save species. The advent of AI has generally led to more environmental concerns than solutions overall due to the energy and resources used, but machine learning has increasingly been used in recent years to tackle ecological problems that could otherwise be difficult or more costly to address. For instance, a drone company and an AI firm are teaming up to track milkweed, a plant vital to the monarch butterfly's reproductive cycle. Plus, scientists are using AI to help identify a disease that is devastating coral. According to the National Trust, red squirrels are critical in the regeneration of pine woodlands. This directly benefits people, as U.K. woodlands are estimated to store more than 23 million tons of planet-warming pollution each year, per The Wildlife Trusts. While both red and grey squirrels spread the seeds of trees, National Trust explains, reds are specially adapted to this particular ecosystem, feeding on the seeds of pine cones in the country. Meanwhile, greys favor broadleaved woodlands, where many other animals already help spread seeds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If red squirrels became extinct in the U.K., it would not only have a negative impact on our pine woodland regeneration, but we would also lose one of our most iconic native mammals," the organization says. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. We could be producing concrete that's 30 percent stronger by processing and adding charred coffee grounds to the mix, researchers in Australia discovered. Their clever recipe could solve multiple problems at the same time. Every year the world produces a staggering 10 billion kilograms (22 billion pounds) of coffee waste globally. Most ends up in landfills. "The disposal of organic waste poses an environmental challenge as it emits large amounts of greenhouse gases including methane and carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change," explained RMIT University engineer Rajeev Roychand. Once used to make coffee, the grounds become waste. ( Andrew Kenney/Unsplash With a booming construction market globally, there's also an ever increasing demand for resource intensive concrete causing another set of environmental challenges too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The ongoing extraction of natural sand around the world typically taken from river beds and banks to meet the rapidly growing demands of the construction industry has a big impact on the environment," said RMIT engineer Jie Li. "There are critical and long-lasting challenges in maintaining a sustainable supply of sand due to the finite nature of resources and the environmental impacts of sand mining. With a circular-economy approach, we could keep organic waste out of landfill and also better preserve our natural resources like sand." Global demand for sand is increasing, and with it environmental impacts. ( Pixabay/Pexels Organic products like coffee grounds can't be added directly to concrete because they leak chemicals that weaken the building material's strength. So using low energy levels the team heated coffee waste to over 350 C (around 660 F) while depriving it of oxygen. This process is called pyrolyzing. It breaks down the organic molecules, resulting in a porous, carbon-rich charcoal called biochar, that can form bonds with and thereby incorporate itself into the cement matrix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roychand and colleagues also tried pyrolyzing the coffee grounds at 500 C but the resulting biochar particles were not as strong. Scanning electron microscope images of the surface structures on the pyrolyzed coffee grinds. (Roychand et al, Journal of Cleaner Production, 2023) The researchers cautioned that they still need to assess the long term durability of their cement product. They're now working on testing how the hybrid coffee-cement performs under freeze/thaw cycles, water absorption, abrasions and many more stressors. The team is also working on creating biochars from other organic waste sources, including wood, food waste and agricultural waste. "Our research is in the early stages, but these exciting findings offer an innovative way to greatly reduce the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill," said RMIT engineer Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Inspiration for my research, from an Indigenous perspective, involves Caring for Country, ensuring there's a sustainable life cycle for all materials and avoiding things going into landfill to minimize the impact on the environment." Their research was published in the Journal of Cleaner Production. An earlier version of this article was published in September 2023. Related News Florida biologists are closely monitoring how alligators in the Everglades are responding to rising global temperatures, and they're concerned about what they've found so far. What's happening? Scientists from the University of Florida "Croc Docs" team are studying threatened American alligators to help assess the impacts of rising global temperatures in the Everglades. The Miami Herald reported on the team, explaining that alligators are a good target species for this type of research because they are sensitive to environmental changes. Since the 1970s, researchers have documented erosion that is changing the nesting patterns of this reptile along the coast of the southern Everglades and in Florida Bay. Croc Docs team member Sergio Balaguera-Reina believes the overheating of our planet will make the situation worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Some of the islands that we have visited before and saw nesting, now we see nothing because it's just covered with water," Balaguera-Reina told the Herald. "We know climate change is affecting other species, so we need to get ready to see how it affects the species we have here in the Everglades." Why is this research important? As our planet gets hotter, scientists expect the Everglades to face a number of challenges including sea level rise. According to Miami Dade County, sea levels in south Florida are likely to rise 20 inches above 1990 levels by 2100. This will make inland areas more susceptible to damage from storm surges during hurricanes, it says. Meanwhile, alligators are a keystone species in the Everglades ecosystem this means that any decline in this species will have a ripple effect. For instance, these top predators help control prey numbers while the "gator holes" they build serve as shelter for many other Everglades animals, according to the Ecological Society of America. What's being done about rising global temperatures? Dirty fuels are the biggest culprit behind rising global temperatures, accounting for more than 75% of all planet-heating pollution, per the UN. That's why governments around the world are implementing programs to reduce their dependence on these energy sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, Wales is banning most new roadway projects to cut down on carbon pollution. Plus, a New York law will require all Lyfts and Ubers to be electric by 2030. You can help out by voting for pro-climate candidates or making changes in your everyday life like enrolling in community solar or changing the way you get around. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. SNP ministers should consider changing the test for strokes in all Scotlands hospitals, an NHS investigation into the death of a father whose symptoms were missed has concluded. A review by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHS GGC), the countrys largest health board, found that Tony Bundys stroke was not diagnosed using routine tests. The 17-page report, passed to The Telegraph by Mr Bundys family, said the 53-year-olds case was not initially treated as an emergency as his symptoms were not included in the standard FAST checklist used by medics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The acronym covers Face weakness, including whether the patient can smile, Arm weakness, Speech problems and Time to call 999 if any of these signs are visible. But the review estimated that around 15 per cent to 20 per cent of strokes were missed using the FAST screening method as it was not sensitive for posterior circulation strokes, which occur in arteries that supply blood to the back of the brain. The report suggested the NHS examine adopting an expanded BEFAST checklist instead, adding B for balance, E for eyes and having the T stand for throwing up rather than time. It said the new test could not be applied universally given its resource implications, as one in six or seven of all patients could at any one time trigger the BE part of BEFAST. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This risked medics being diverted from emergencies to stroke mimics. But the group that conducted the review agreed there is a role for consideration of the BEFAST tool, amid claims that this could halve the number of missed strokes. Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, where Tony Bundy died after suffering a stroke - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty It said the group are awaiting a clear definitive instruction from the Scottish Government and noted that any changes would impact not only NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde but all affiliated NHS health boards and services. In a damning assessment of Mr Bundys care, the review also found he was not treated quickly enough thanks to overcrowding in Glasgow Royal Infirmarys emergency department, with records showing cubicle capacity of greater than 200 per cent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It noted that his family described a catalogue of basic failings by staff, including not responding to concerns about his clinical condition, not providing a blanket when he was cold and shivering, a failure to react when his condition deteriorated and allegations of unprofessional language and behaviour. However, the review noted that he would have been immediately assessed and managed despite the overwhelming departmental pressures if the stroke had been correctly diagnosed. Mr Bundy was later taken to a specialist unit at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow and put on life support, but his condition proved fatal and he died on June 29 last year. His family has since been campaigning for the NHS to adopt BEFAST and has lodged a Scottish Parliament petition calling for a review of the current checklist to ensure it includes all the symptoms of a potential stroke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Bundy, his son and Conservative councillor in Falkirk, said the NHS GGC report showed that serious questions need to be asked about the continued support of FAST by the Scottish Government. He said: This NHS review shows that the FAST tests inability to detect my dads stroke directly contributed to his death. The review also highlights that up to one in five strokes are missed by FAST. With over 11,000 recorded strokes in Scotland last year, this could equate to over 2,000 strokes being missed. He said that tests in Australia had showed BEFAST resulted in more strokes being detected more quickly and better outcomes for patients, and argued that the very least SNP ministers should do is trial it in Scotland. Health Secretary Neil Gray called for a review of education around stroke symptoms for clinical staff - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Mr Bundy had felt unwell over several weeks and was out shopping with his wife, Selena, on June 25 last year when he started to struggle with his balance and became unable to focus his eyes. He also developed cold sweats and started vomiting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The father of four, from Tullibody in Clackmannanshire, was not treated as an emergency case when he arrived at hospital just after 5pm as he did not display the usual stroke symptoms. In the absence of any free cubicles, he was put in a corridor and routine tests were taken just after 9pm. However, his wife and daughter noticed his condition had deteriorated just before 10.40pm. Only then did a doctor express concern that he was suffering a posterior circulation stroke and an urgent CT scan of his brain was ordered. This was performed at 11.11pm and confirmed there was a clot and a likely tear in the vertebral artery that oxygenates the brain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He left Glasgow Royal Infirmary in an ambulance at 11.42pm to be transferred to the Queen Elizabeth hospital. Mr Bundy arrived just before midnight and a tube was inserted into his trachea to help his breathing. After repeated scanning, he was transferred to intensive care. The following morning a CT scan was performed and a mechanical thrombectomy was performed at 9.33am, with the review stating that a large volume of clot was removed. However, he suffered a further brain injury and died. The review also noted there was no night time provision for thrombectomy across any health board area in Scotland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Scottish Government expressed its deep condolences to the Bundy family. A spokesman said: The Scottish Government is guided by the 2023 National Clinical Guideline for Stroke, which is clear that more evidence is needed before a recommendation can be made on screening for non-FAST stroke symptoms and that more research into improving public awareness of symptoms is required. This position is supported by both Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland and Stroke Association. He said Neil Gray, the Scottish Health Secretary, had instead had for a review of education around stroke symptoms for clinical staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An NHS GGC spokesman expressed the boards deepest sympathy to the family and confirmed senior members had met the Bundys to discuss the contents of the review. He said its recommendations have already been or will be implemented in the timeframes set out within the report and its services follow national guidelines on strokes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A 20-year-old Scranton man faces charges after police say he engaged in unlawful contact with an 11-year-old girl. Scranton police responded to a home on Vine Street on Saturday at about 7:20 p.m. and found Jhenser Mejia-Delcid being restrained by a resident, according to a criminal complaint. Officers said Mejia-Delcid was having inappropriate contact with the girl throughout the past two weeks, including forcing her to perform sexual acts on him and touching her private areas, per the complaint. He also took an intimate video of her and told her not to tell her parents what occurred, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Times-Tribune does not identify victims of sexual abuse. Mejia-Delcid admitted to officers that he went to the residence Saturday believing the victims parents were not home and that she was sneaking him into the home, police said. When he arrived the victim let him in, but her stepfather was in the living room and witnessed them walking up the stairs, per the complaint. The stepfather chased after Mejia-Delcid and held him there until police arrived, officers said. Police charged Mejia-Delcid, 1131 S. Webster Ave., with criminal attempt to commit statuary sexual assault, unlawful contact with a minor, criminal trespass and corruption of minors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Tuesday, Mejia-Delcid remained in Lackawanna County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 8 at 11 a.m. Mejia-Delcid (Courtesy Lackawanna County Central Processing) Dec. 30MITCHELL The South Dakota Department of Corrections is reversing course on housing parole detainers in local jails, meaning the Davison County Jail will go back to taking state offenders. A Dec. 20 memo from South Dakota Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko said the state will resume will cover any medical care necessary for parole detainees after previously indicating otherwise. "I wanted to let you know that we will continue to cover offsite medical care as well as costs for prescriptions for parolees being detained for parole violations," she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in December, Davison County Sheriff Steve Harr told the Davison County Commission that the state's Parole Services officials indicated they would not cover any additional costs past the $95 per day jail rate that is mandated in state law. In her letter, Wasko wrote that the policy change initially came from a budget review and the "parole budget was found to be paying for costs that are intended to be included in the cost per day." She also said she supported an increase in fees for jails in past legislation. "It was revealed that the DOC was paying for medical care, hospital bills, medications and personnel costs in addition to the $95 per day per parolee. That was the reason that the Director of Parole Services pulled back on the medical costs and medications. Wasko said that after a review: "I have no problem with us maintaining that responsibility and we will figure out how to fix it within the budget elsewhere," she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the state is not able to cover additional personnel costs, such as overtime for employees to cover parolees in the hospital or getting medical care. Previously, Harr told the commission he would have to cut off housing parole detainers because of the costs involved for the county and for the risk for the county if a detainer had a medical emergency under the county's watch. Because they are state inmates, the state is generally responsible for their medical care or prescriptions. State Parole Services rules allow the state to detain an individual if there was a suspected parole violation, a reasonable belief the parolee will abscond or to enforce discipline against the parolee, among other reasons. The state's Parole Services division can issue a detainer and place a parolee in a jail or state corrections facility for up to five days. Harr said it's common for a parole detainer to be held in the county's jail for two to three days. By Anushree Mukherjee and Brijesh Patel (Reuters) - Oil prices are likely to be constrained near $70 a barrel in 2025 as weak demand from China and rising global supplies are expected to cast a shadow on OPEC+-led efforts to shore up the market, a Reuters monthly poll showed on Tuesday. The survey of 31 economists and analysts predicted that Brent crude would average $74.33 per barrel in 2025, down from a forecast of $74.53 in November, marking an eighth straight downward revision. The global benchmark Brent crude has averaged around $80 a barrel so far this year and was poised for a 3% yearly decline on weakening demand stemming from top importer China. U.S. crude is projected to average $70.86 per barrel in 2025, compared with last month's expectation of $70.69. "Rising production from non-OPEC countries is expected to keep the market well-supplied. While an economic recovery in China is anticipated, the shift to electric vehicles is likely to limit demand growth," Sehul Bhatt, director of research at CRISIL, said. Most of the poll respondents expect the oil market to be in a surplus next year, with analysts from JPMorgan predicting that supply will outpace demand to the tune of 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd). OPEC+, which pumps about half the world's oil, at its December meeting pushed back the start of oil output rises by three months until April 2025 and extended the full unwinding of cuts by a year until the end of 2026. "The decision was driven by the expectation that non-OPEC+ supply growth will outpace demand growth in 2025. This leaves limited room for OPEC+ to raise production... we anticipate a further delay in unwinding of cuts until Q4 2025," said Florian Grunberger, senior analyst at data and analytics firm Kpler. Global oil demand was seen growing between 0.4 million and 1.3 million bpd in 2025, the poll showed. That compares with OPEC's 2025 growth estimate of 1.45 million bpd. Markets are also bracing for substantial policy shifts, encompassing tariffs, deregulation, and tax amendments as Donald Trump is set to return to the White House in January 2025. "In general, we think U.S. politics matter less than many believe when it comes to the impact on oil prices and the U.S. domestic oil & gas sector," said Kim Fustier, head of European oil & gas research at HSBC. However, implementation of intensified sanctions on Iranian oil exports by the Trump administration could offer support to oil prices in the short term, some analysts noted. (Reporting by Anushree Mukherjee and Brijesh Patel in Bengaluru, additional reporting by Swati Verma) Authorities are asking for the publics help finding 65-year-old Gloria Fuentes, an at-risk missing person who was last seen in Los Angeles on Saturday. The California Highway Patrol said Fuentes was last seen around 12:30 p.m. near North Vermont and Lockwood Avenues, and she is believed to be on foot. According to CHPs description, Fuentes stands 5 feet and 2 inches tall and weighs about 220 pounds. CHP also said she has brown eyes and black hair though in an undated photo provided by the agency, Fuentes appears to have graying hair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said that when Fuentes was last seen in Los Angeles, she wore a red, long-sleeved V-neck sweater, blue jeans and black shoes. On Dec. 28, CHP issued a Silver Alert for Fuentes on behalf of the Los Angeles Police Department. The agencys website stated that these alerts are only activated when an elderly, developmentally, or cognitively impaired person has gone missing and is determined to be at risk. Silver Alerts provide immediate information to the public to aid in the swift recovery of at-risk persons meeting the criteria, stated CHPs website. Elderly woman loses part of arm after dog attack in Coachella Valley Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the states Silver Alert plan to be activated, CHP said the following criteria must be met: The missing person is 65 years of age or older, developmentally disabled or cognitively impaired. The investigating law enforcement agency has utilized all available local resources. The law enforcement agency determines that the person has gone missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances. The law enforcement agency believes that the person is in danger because of age, health, mental or physical disability, environment or weather conditions, the person is in the company of a potentially dangerous person, or other factors indicating that the person may be in peril. There is information available that, if disseminated to the public, could assist in the safe recovery of the missing person. CHP said if you see Fuentes, call 911 immediately and report her location, direction of travel, and make, model, color and license plate number (if possible) of any vehicle involved. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Section of West Boulevard to close in association with CLT airport construction CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A portion of West Boulevard will permanently close due to airport-related construction starting in the new year. Charlotte Douglas International officials say construction associated with the South End Around Taxiway requires West Boulevard to close between Piney Top Drive and Steele Creek Road. The road will be permanently realigned to make room for the new taxiway. Cleared For Landing: FAA commits $290M in funds for new Charlotte airport runway Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This work is expected to take four months to complete. Crews will install necessary traffic signals in key areas. Here are the related detour for local and through traffic: Local Traffic Detour: Use Byrum Drive to navigate between Steele Creek Road and Yorkmont Road. Local Traffic Detour: Use Shopton Road to travel between Sandy Porter Road and Beam Road. Extended Traffic Detour: Motorists traveling from further south should use West Arrowood Road to access Sandy Porter Road and S. Tryon Street. The South End Taxiway project, which is essential to CLTs Fourth Parallel Runway Program, aims to improve safety by eliminating crossings of the center runway. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. The suspect in the shooting of two workers at a Target store in downtown Los Angeles was taken into custody late Tuesday afternoon after barricading himself in a building near the scene for several hours as police tried to make an arrest, officials said. The man, whose name has not been released, was inside a building in the 1200 block of West Ingraham Street and believed to be armed, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The standoff began at 11:38 a.m., and the suspect was taken into custody at 4:52 p.m., said police spokesperson Tony Im. No information was immediately available about the suspect's condition or charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The barricade situation came less than 24 hours after the Monday night shooting of two Target employees. The suspect was confronted outside the store for allegedly shoplifting. The shooting incident began around 8:55 p.m. Monday in the 700 block of Figueroa at the Figat7th shopping mall just a 12-minute walk from the building where the suspect was barricaded. The long-haired man, wearing a do-rag and a purple scarf, was confronted outside the store after he had stuffed more than $1,000 worth of merchandise into a briefcase he was carrying, said LAPD Capt. Raul Jovel during a news conference earlier Tuesday. When the suspected shoplifter was confronted by security, he opened fire "indiscriminately," Jovel said. An armed guard returned fire, and at least 10 shots total were fired during the mayhem, according to police. Two Target workers were wounded in the gunfight. One a loss prevention officer remained in critical condition on Tuesday, police said. The second employee, the armed security guard, was treated and released from the hospital Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting occurred while shoppers were still in the area, and chaos ensued, witnesses said. Some of the walls were pocked with bullet holes, according to police. "[It was] extremely loud, extremely traumatic," said Judith Conway in an interview with KABC. "We all just started running towards the back. We were guided by ... one of the cashiers. ... We heard several rounds go off, and we just pretty much ran towards the back and just left our items in the cart, and just tried to do the best that we could to get to safety." Another shopper didn't realize they were gunshots at first. "Everybody was kind of, you think its a firework; you dont assume the worst immediately. Then, theres like six more shots pretty quickly," witness Lucas Williams told KNBC. "Nobody really looked back because you could kind of hear bullets whisking by us. We just started running up the stairs. The main thing I remember is there was a little girl next to me and just seeing her family picking her up and running off." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mall told broadcast stations in a statement it was troubled by the incident and was working with police in their investigation. The downtown Los Angeles Target was the scene of a brutal stabbing in 2022, when a homeless man attacked a 9-year-old boy and a 25-year-old woman. The attacker was fatally shot by a third-party security guard at the store. Target increased security at the location after that attack, according to ABC. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) A case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu is confirmed in Sedgwick County. The infection was found in the backyard chickens of a rural home. The virus spreads rapidly in birds, and with nearly 600 birds at the Sedgwick County Zoo, an outbreak could be disastrous. Zoo officials are taking procedures to protect their wildlife. Were not being reactive, were being proactive, Zoological Manager of ASA Birds and Penguins Ana Frace said. I dont want anybody to overreact to it, but to understand the potential seriousness of the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quarantining, decontaminating and dressing in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) areas are now standard procedures when dealing with certain zoo birds. Penguins, pelicans and tropical birds are all off-limits to the public. Since those birds are typically indoors and not exposed to outside, that is why we have closed the [tropics] building, and that makes a nice little containment, Frace said. Sedgwick County Zoo closes 2 popular attractions The habitat for tropical birds is being used as their makeshift quarantine area. Other birds, like ducks and flamingos, have been deemed low-risk enough to remain on-habitat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant move all of our birds inside; its impossible, so we just have to do whats best and just balance their well-being and also their safety from infection, Frace said. The Sedgwick County Zoo has seen no infections and intends to keep it that way. Just know that were doing the best for our birds and that were making sure that theyre very well taken care of. Even when people cant see them right now, Frace said. The off-limits areas of the zoo wont be reopened until Sedgwick County has gone at least 30 days without a new case. KSN also reached out to Tanganyika Wildlife Park. They are requiring employees to undergo decontamination before interacting with their birds. Its also important to note that although possible HPAI does not easily infect humans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kansas Department of Agriculture recommends that anybody avoid contact with wild birds and never touch a dead bird. Instead, contact wildlife officials. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. WASHINGTON (WTNH) Nearly 3 million Americans could see a boost in Social Security payments, thanks to a bipartisan act awaiting President Joe Bidens signature. These dedicated public servants deserve the full benefits of Social Security, without being offset because they receive a pension from someplace else, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said. Social Security retirement age set to change in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blumenthal called it an injustice on Monday. He said more than 32,000 people in Connecticut are not receiving their full Social Security benefits. This monumental step towards Social Security fairness is a testament to the men and women behind me, Blumenthal said. The Social Security Fairness Act, which passed the Senate, would repeal two provisions of current law that limit these benefits. The Social Security Fairness Act not only honors those for their service, but reaffirms our commitment to fairness, justice and the American ideal, said Ed Hawthorne, of the Connecticut AFL-CIO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It heavily impacts teachers, police officers, firefighters and public servants who are eligible for other pensions. Our firefighters have paid their fair share into Social Security through secondary employment and side jobs usually while serving their communities as firefighters, said Peter Brown, of the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut. Theyve seen those benefits diminish. If signed by Biden, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) would be repealed, impacting not only retirees but also their spouses and family members. Its lifechanging, said Kate Dias, the president of the Connecticut Education Association (CEA). Were talking anywhere from 600 to probably a couple thousand dollars a month, depending on whether youre getting a survivor benefit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This proposal calls for changes to payments for January 2024 and beyond, which means the Social Security Administration would owe back-pay as well. While it did receive bipartisan support, some lawmakers voiced doubts due to its cost and fiscal impact. Saving money for Social Security, making it solvent is certainly a challenge we need to address, but not on the backs of our [public servants], Blumenthal said. Biden is expected to sign it into law. But calculating what folks are due, and retroactive payments, could take some time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. WICHITA, Kan. (The Active Age) If souls ministered to translated into dollars earned, pastors Homer and Lois Smucks lives might be very different right now. The retired couple spent more than 40 years in ministry, serving hundreds of congregants across four states in predominantly rural communities and small churches. Making ends meet while raising three children was tough, and financial constraints along the way forced the Smucks to make difficult decisions upon retirement seven years ago primarily, how to secure affordable housing with limited resources. For most of their working lives, Homer, 74, and Lois, 72, lived in church parsonages, eliminating the opportunity for the couple to build equity as homeowners. Both were ordained ministers, humble in demeanor, dedicated to their flocks and selfless with their time, energy and resources. In earlier years, Lois stayed home to care for her growing family, occasionally holding outside jobs to supplement their income. When Homer retired from the ministry at age 65, the couple moved from Osborne, Kan., to Wichita to be closer to family. For a time, Homer was employed at a lawn company and Lois worked in food service as they tried to build their Social Security base, a fund they hadnt been able to contribute much to over the years while living on a pastors salary. Ultimately, the Smucks found themselves in the same plight that millions of U.S. adults 65 and older and more than 15 percent of the 86,000 senior adults living in Sedgwick County still face today as poverty rates collide with record high costs of housing, resulting in crisis for many. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines the poverty level as income of $15,060 or less annually for a household of one or $20,440 or less for a household of two, earnings that make home ownership, and sometimes even renting a home or apartment, unachievable. Older adults who may not have experienced poverty in their younger years can suddenly find themselves struggling when life changes such as retirement, declining health and the associated costs of medical care, or the loss of a spouse and their accompanying income, catapults them into a new and difficult reality redefining where they can afford to live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the Smucks have small pensions from two churches they previously pastored, even combined with social security, they fall below federal poverty levels. Lois Smuck holds up a photo of the Mt Ayr Friends Church in Alton, Kansas in which her and her husband Homer were pastors for a time. (Photo by Selena Favela) We looked at trying to buy a small home and being totally independent that way, but we could just never have afforded it, said Homer Smuck. Additionally, Lois Smuck is battling Parkinsons disease, restricting her mobility and increasing her need for housing that can accommodate disabilities. For a while, the Smucks lived in a recreational vehicle in an RV park, but the lot and utilities rent of $400 per month became too costly. Moving in with family and contributing to those household expenses proved to be the only reasonable solution. After living for a time with their son and then a daughter, they were invited to live with Homers sister in El Dorado after she was widowed. While staying with family was not what they envisioned for their senior years, it is a solution they feel fortunate to have. I know housing would be a huge issue if we didnt have the help from our family. Were able to live as well as we are because we are blessed by God and by family, said Homer Smuck. My children and siblings have always said that we blessed others through our call to the ministry, and now they are willing to help us. I feel so much gratitude. God has been good. A new lease on life Working at the heart of the communitys need for affordable housing are local agencies such as Mennonite Housing, whose mission is to provide housing for people who cannot attain such solutions elsewhere, said Byron Adrian, president/CEO. The organization manages approximately 25 properties comprising 1,300 apartment units in Kansas, including Wichita, Andover, Benton, Clearwater, Coffeyville, Derby, Newton and Valley Center. About two-thirds are rented by adults aged 55 and older on a graduated scale based on income. Rents can start as low as $250 per month ranging up to about $650 per month, which includes water, gas and trash; the resident pays only for electricity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Linda Wesley is a resident at Riverfront Senior Residences, a Mennonite Housing property in north Wichita. Now 65, Wesley had experienced homelessness and health concerns and was referred to Mennonite Housing through another agency four years ago. The opportunity to move into affordable independent housing has been a positive experience, she said. Its been a new lease on life, allowing me to be amongst a community, said Wesley. Its not just a place to live, its home to me. I can feel proud to be here. There are different circumstances that drive the need for lower income housing for older adults, said Nancy Sanchez, property manager at Riverfront. The baby boomers are coming, and in addition to the older residents needing a community, the last couple of years Ive noticed the residents around 55 (years old) starting to come in, said Sanchez. A lot of them are getting sick, losing a spouse, or a home or a job, having to cut down and downsize a lot. The first thing I hear is there is no affordable housing around. They are usually very surprised to see what we can offer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the challenges in finding affordable housing can be waiting times for availability, a reality not just unique to Mennonite Housing. Adrian estimates wait times of six months to a year if an applicant qualifies for housing through his organization. The agency continues to add housing inventory as it can while striving to listen to the changing needs of its residents. Over the years, weve tried to develop properties that are in line with what seniors are looking for, with the kind of amenities they are looking for, Adrian said. What weve been doing more of lately are duplexes and fourplexes whenever we have land to do that. Seniors like having exterior entrances and garages. There is also still a strong desire for apartment buildings like Riverfront, and we recognize there is a need for both. I dont see the need getting any less. An Exploding Need The United States population ages 65 years and over has soared by 34 percent in the last decade, from 43 million in 2012 to 58 million in 2022, according to Harvard Universitys Joint Center for Housing Studies. By 2035, it is expected that 50 million households approximately one out of every three in the United States will be headed by someone age 65 or older. In the coming decade, the fastest growth will occur among those over 80, when people are more likely to need accessible housing as well as services and support at home. The US, however, is not ready to provide housing and care for this surging population, according to national experts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same Harvard study states that more than 10 million households headed by someone 65 and over are cost burdened, paying more than a third of their income on housing. Half of these pay more than 50 percent. Such statistics are not a surprise to Monica Cissell, Deputy Director of the Sedgwick County Department of Aging and Disabilities, an entity that oversees the Central Plains Area Agency on Aging. CPAAAs area includes Butler, Harvey and Sedgwick Counties, encompassing more than 130,000 adults aged 60 and over. Housing costs are a concern when you are retired and only receive a small Cost of Living Adjustment from Social Security but otherwise do not get raises annually like the rest of us, Cissell said. It is high on our list of topics that people call about. CPAAA offers a variety of programs and information to support older adults or their caregivers who are navigating the complex system of aging services. Staff can field phone calls or walk-in visitors to discuss resources on housing ranging from independent living (including low-income options), to assisted living, long-term care and in-home support. The same information and detailed lists of housing options are also available on CPAAAs web site. For more complex situations, the agency offers a service called Options Counseling, which provides a deeper dive into the resources available to families for multiple aspects of senior care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We try to guide people to what their needs are, whether that is independent living, assisted living or apartments, including low-income apartments, Cissell said. Or, maybe the older adult would benefit from in-home services or a safety assessment. We are here to listen to what the scenario is and provide guidance and options. Seeking Help While solutions to the challenges of poverty, aging and navigating the cost of housing dont have easy answers, seeking expertise from sources such as Mennonite Housing, CPAAA and others are good places to start. The Active Age also publishes a 55+ Resource Guide on its website, bringing together hundreds of entities from government, nonprofits and businesses that can offer valuable insight into services for the older-adult community. Smuck said that having family who supported him and his wife through the exploring and decision-making process was invaluable, and he is grateful for family who opened their doors and shared their homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Needing to live with others wasnt really what I expected in my older years, but God has peace for us no matter what we go through, Smuck said. Contact Sherry Graham Howerton at sgaylegraham@hotmail.com. Resources listed in this article: Mennonite Housing Web address: mhrsi.org Phone: 316-942-4848 Central Plains Area Agency on Aging Web address: cpaaa.org Phone: 855-200-2372 The Active Age 55+ Resource Guide Web address: theactiveage.com This article was produced as part of the Wichita Journalism Collaborative, which includes The Active Age and 10 other organizations and community groups, including KSN-TV. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. An attack on a Hanukkah menorah that had paint thrown over it and some of its branches ripped down is being treated as a hate crime. The menorah in Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire, was vandalised on Saturday night. Rabbi Eliezer Tunk, the director of Chabad Lubavitch Bricket Wood, which is dedicated to enhancing and enriching the Jewish community throughout the area, said he was shocked and deeply upset that the menorah had been terribly vandalised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The menorah is used to light candles during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. A post on Facebook said the traditional lighting event went ahead on Sunday evening after a replacement menorah was found. A spokesman for Hertfordshire Police said: Between 6pm on Dec 28 and 8.30am on Dec 29, it was reported that a menorah a Jewish multi-branched candelabrum was damaged on West Riding, with blue paint also being thrown or poured on to the display. Since the incident, officers have been working to try and obtain and view CCTV footage from the nearby shops. Extra patrols have also been conducted in the area, and residents are encouraged to speak to our officers if they have any concerns. This is being treated as a hate crime. A Facebook post showing how the menorah looked before the attack For the first time on record, more anti-Semitic hate crimes have been recorded in London than Islamophobic incidents, figures released in October showed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the 11 months since the Oct 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, 2,170 anti-Semitic crimes were recorded by the Metropolitan Police, compared with 1,568 Islamophobic hate crimes. This represented a more than fourfold increase in anti-Semitic crime and is more than three times the previous high, recorded in 2020-21 around the time of the previous war in Gaza. Hate crimes against Jews and Muslims rose across the country after the Oct 7 attacks and the Southport stabbings in July. Some of the UKs largest police forces recorded a steep increase in anti-Semitic incidents accompanying the start of the current conflict between Hamas and Israel last year. Despite the vandalism to our menorah, the lighting went ahead as planned, said Rabbi Eliezer Tunk - Eliezer Tunk Figures obtained from police show some of the worst spikes were in Manchester, West Yorkshire, London and on the transport network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greater Manchester Police recorded an average of 13 anti-Semitic offences a month from January to September last year, followed by 85 in October and 68 in November. Islamophobic offences averaged 35 a month last year and 39 a month from January to July this year before a sharp jump to 85 in August and then 21 in September. The increase may have been connected to the killings of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport in July. In West Yorkshire, anti-Semitic offences averaged six a month from January to September last year, before leaping to 44 in October. Islamophobic offences averaged 33 a month last year and 39 a month from January to July this year, then spiked to 94 and 73 in the two months after the Southport attacks. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. POMEROY, Iowa Multiple law enforcement agencies are on the scene in Pomeroy investigating a shooting Tuesday morning and officials say the incident is also linked to a standoff in Manson. Donald Schnitker, Assistant Director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations Field Operations Bureau confirmed to WHO 13 that DCI is assisting the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office with its investigation. Schnitker said there is no danger to the public from the incident. Marshalltown chase suspect located in hidden room, arrested Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHO 13s Roger Riley is on the scene in Pomeroy, where an apartment building at the corner of E. 7th Street and S. Cayuga is blocked off by yellow crime scene tape. Personnel from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa State Patrol, and the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office are at the apartment building investigating. Calhoun County Attorney Ben Smith said there was a standoff in Manson Tuesday morning, which ended peacefully, that is linked to the shooting investigation in Pomeroy. No details about whether anyone was injured or killed in the shooting have been released. Schnitker said more information about the incident will be released later Tuesday by the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. A farmer preparing a field for spring planting in Prairie Grove, Illinois. Photograph: Tannen Maury/EPA Many US midwestern grain farmers will lose money this year after reaping a bumper crop, and the outlook for their future income is bleak. US farmers harvested some of the largest corn and soybean crops in history this year. Big harvests traditionally weigh on crop prices because of plentiful supply. And those price pressures comes at a time when costs remain persistently high to grow corn and soybeans, the USs most valuable crops. That double whammy is hurting farmers. Income will vary per farmer and per state, yet even for producers in top agricultural states such as Illinois, losses could be staggering. Agricultural economists from the University of Illinois and Ohio State University estimate that the average Illinois farm could make a loss of $30,000 for 2024. Their projections place farm incomes at the lowest level since the 1980s farm crisis led to bankruptcies. The decks are stacked against farmers for 2025 as well. Costs for seed, fertilizer and other inputs rose during 2022, fueled by the Russia-Ukraine war, which also lifted crop prices to record highs. Related: Trumps policies should be turning off farmers why did so many vote for him? While crop prices are down nearly 50% from those highs, in part due to a global supply glut, input prices remain elevated. Sterling Smith, an independent commodities researcher, says the national average break-even price for corn is $5.67 a bushel, and $12.72 a bushel for soybeans. Those levels are far above current Chicago Board of Trade most-active futures prices of $4.43 for corn and $9.76 for soybeans. Were looking at this crop, that, when it gets planted, of being a money-loser next year, Smith says. And things could look worse for farmers if Donald Trump places tariffs on imports. Trump pledged to impose across-the-board tariffs of 20% on all US imports, with a 60% tariff on Chinese goods. Recently, he advocated for 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico. Mexico, Canada and China are the three biggest importers of US agricultural goods, and agriculture is among the USs biggest export engines. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates 16% of the US corn harvest and 40% of soybeans are exported. A trade war between those three countries could have both short-term and long-term impacts, Smith says. Until the first trade war between China and the US in 2018, China was the No 1 destination for US agricultural goods. That came to a halt during the trade war, although China and the US eventually signed an agreement in 2019 to import a set amount of agricultural goods for two years. The family of an American schoolteacher serving a 14-year prison sentence at a hard labor camp in Russia is hopeful for his release after the US government recently designated him as wrongfully detained, following a yearslong plea for greater efforts to secure his return. Marc Fogel, 61, worked for nearly a decade as a history teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow, where children of US diplomats were among his students. He was arrested in August 2021 at an airport in Moscow while returning for the school year, after he was found carrying cannabis. He had traveled into the country with about 17 grams of cannabis, which his family and lawyer said was recommended by a doctor to treat severe spinal pain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In June 2022, he was found guilty in a court just outside of Moscow of committing large-scale drugs smuggling the same court where the trial of detained WNBA player Brittney Griner took place and given the 14-year sentence at a Russian hard labor camp. The US State Department said Friday that it had designated Fogel as being wrongfully detained, according to the Associated Press, a classification that allows the government to undertake active diplomatic efforts to secure his release. Fogel was not part of a massive prisoner swap last August that resulted in the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan. Fogels family said it was completely heartbroken and outraged, in a statement released at the time. The United States has been working to secure Marc Fogels release for some time. We have long called for his humanitarian release and tried to include him in the August 1 deal, but were unable to, the State Department said in a statement, according to AP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN has reached out to the State Department. Fogels sister, Anne, told CNN on Tuesday that her family is pleased by the governments decision to formally designate her brother as wrongfully detained. Weve been assured that he is prioritized, which is what we have been fighting for three-and-a-half years, she told CNNs Brianna Keilar on OutFront. We do believe that there is a plan. Multiple appeals against Fogels 14-year sentence have failed in the Russian court, and the US government had also asked Russia to release him on humanitarian grounds, due to his age and chronic back pain. Hes very anxious to get out of Russia at this point. Its wintertime and there was a fire at the penal colony he lives in, Anne Fogel said. Her brothers barracks had been overcrowded after the barracks of some prisoners burned in the fire, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to get you home and it is going to happen, she said. The State Department considers a range of factors in deciding whether to designate an American jailed in a foreign country as wrongfully detained, including if theres credible information that the person is innocent, if the person is being held for the primary purpose of influencing US policy or securing concessions from the US government, according to AP. The designation moves Fogels case to the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs within the State Department. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Six people were displaced following a dryer fire at an apartment complex in Hartford on Monday. Firefighters responded to 1450 Main St. at 7:26 p.m. on the report of a fire at an occupied apartment complex, according to the Hartford Fire Department. The first crews at the scene found that a dryer fire was being contained by a sprinkler system in the building, fire officials said. The fire created heavy smoke conditions in one of the apartment units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flames were brought under control and put out, officials said. No injuries were reported. The fire departments Special Services Unit worked with the American Red Cross to assist the three families which included six adults who were displaced. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) Six people, including a 12-year-old girl, were shot Monday afternoon in the Bronx, according to the NYPD. The incident happened around 4:50 p.m. at 3544 White Plains Road, police said. More Local News Police said two shooters crossed the road and opened fire at a group of people standing in front of a convenience store. The intended targets then ran into the store. The shooters continued firing into the store, striking six people. Police said one of the intended targets who was not shot bumped into a 40-year-old woman, turned her around, and used her as a shield. She was shot in the stomach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her daughter, a 12-year-old, was struck in the leg, officials said. The four other victims are men between the ages of 18-21. They were shot in the arms and legs. Authorities did not elaborate on the condition of the victims but said they were all taken to local hospitals. I panicked, said Jamal Wilson, who was working around the neighborhood delivering food when the shooting happened. The gunshot was so close, and I witnessed a car getting shot as well. Good Samaritan brought abandoned baby inside on cold Bronx morning Cruz Miranda, the owner of the vehicle, showed PIX11 News how one of the bullets impacted the windshield of his vehicle. He said he was inside his car on his way home when the two men opened fire, adding that people were screaming and running for their lives. He says he was in shock and numbed by what he had witnessed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This kind of traumatize you a little bit. If it wasnt for maybe 30 seconds later, I would probably have been shot too, said Wilson. The investigation is ongoing. Police are searching for the two men, who were seen wearing a black Nike sweatsuit and a grey hoodie. No other information about the shooters or the motive was immediately available. Police did say this appeared to be a targeted attack. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Slovakia has prepared in advance for the cessation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine from 1 January 2025 and has sufficient gas reserves and alternative supply sources for the coming year. Source: European Pravda, citing Denisa Sakova, Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Details: Sakova described the termination of Russian gas transit as a "unilateral step" by Ukraine, which she claimed would harm Slovakia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "At the same time, I want to assure all citizens and companies in Slovakia that we are prepared for this scenario and there is currently no risk of a gas shortage in Slovakia." Sakova revealed that Slovakias underground storage facilities contain 20% more gas than a year ago. Additionally, the state-owned Slovak gas company SPP has five agreements for gas supplies from other sources. She added that due to higher costs of alternative supplies compared to Russian gas, the countrys losses will amount to approximately 177 million. Furthermore, Bratislava will lose "tens of millions of euros" in transit fees for gas transported to third countries. Background: Slovakia has repeatedly sought to extend the agreement between Ukraine and Russia on Russian gas transit, which is set to expire at the end of 2024. Against this backdrop, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico made a controversial visit to Russia, where he met with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Fico also threatened to cut off electricity supplies to Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! If 3-year-old Kingsley Wright is remembered for anything, it's that she was the life of any room she entered. "She was happy. She liked to sing, she liked to dance," her mom, Gina Smith, told The Enquirer on Monday. "She just put a lot of smiles on a lot of people's faces." Three-year-old Kingsley Wright was killed in a dog attack on Dec. 27, 2024. Kingsley was killed Friday in a dog attack while at her father's apartment in Cincinnati's Roselawn neighborhood. Since that tragic moment, life has been turned upside down for Kingsley's loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's just been one big roller coaster," Smith said. "I feel like we ain't ever going to get off of it." While Kingsley's life was short, she left a strong impression on the people she met, Smith said. She added that since her daughter's death, people have taken to social media to recall their chance encounters with Kingsley at the store, saying they remember the girl's bright smile. "She just had her own personality. She was a very sassy, smart little girl," Smith said. "It was never a dull moment with her." What happened to Kingsley Wright? According to 911 call recordings and police documents, Kingsley's father called Cincinnati police at 7:50 a.m., just after he reported waking up. He said he walked into the living room and found Kingsley lying on the floor dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After giving his daughter's description to the dispatcher, who told him to put away any pets in the home before officers arrived, Kingsley's father said they had terriers, and that the dogs were already in their cages. "That's why I'm like, did any of my pets attack her or something? I would have heard this," the man said. There was one other person in the apartment and they both woke up at the same time, he told the dispatcher. It did not appear there was a break-in because the front door to the apartment was locked, the man said. "My baby is dead," Kingsley's father said. "This has got to be a f---ing nightmare." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cincinnati Animal CARE was called Friday morning to remove three dogs from the home. The dogs were taken to the animal shelter to be held for a state-mandated 10-day quarantine period, said Lisa Colina, a shelter spokesperson. When asked whether euthanasia is a likely outcome, Colina said the animals will be held until the shelter is given further direction by Cincinnati police. She added the shelter is not aware of previous issues concerning the dogs. Mom seeking answers after Kingsley's death Kingsley left her mom's home in Wilmington on Dec. 23 to spend Christmas with her dad in Cincinnati, Smith said. She called every day to check on Kingsley and to make sure her daughter was OK. Smith last spoke to Kingsley on Thursday night on FaceTime before the girl went to bed, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next morning, the girl's older sister messaged Smith saying she needed to call. It was about Kingsley. That's when Smith was told Kingsley had died and that the girl's father had been taken by police for questioning. Cincinnati police have yet to announce any arrests in connection with Kingsley's death, however, the department's homicide unit was called to investigate and detectives have been in contact with the girl's family. Three-year-old Kingsley Wright and her mom, Gina Smith. Smith said she keeps getting questions about how this could've happened and she only has one answer, "I don't know." She hopes that the police can uncover some answers, however. "For that poor baby to be attacked by dogs like that and him not hear it, you know, that's what I'm questioning," Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Smith said she's appreciative of the outpouring of support she's received from the community. She said people have made decals honoring Kingsley and a childhood friend on Monday gave Smith a throw blanket decorated with pictures of Kingsley on it. "I couldn't ask for a better community," she said. Enquirer reporters Erin Couch and Aaron Valdez contributed. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Wilmington 3-year-old killed in dog attack remembered as 'happy' girl Thousands of Republicans, from a presidential candidate to grassroots party members, began assembling in Milwaukee on July 15, 2024, for that quadrennial political ritual, the party convention. Political history curators from the Smithsonians National Museum of American History were there, too. Theyre self-described scavengers of the physical objects that make up political campaign history, from candidate buttons to signs, banners and anything else that can enter the Smithsonians campaign collection which dates back to George Washington in order to make sense of our moment to people wondering what we were all thinking, as curator Jon Grinspan put it. Grinspan was joined by curators Claire Jerry and Lisa Kathleen Graddy in an interview with The Conversations politics editor, Naomi Schalit. They will report back to Conversation readers during the convention about their progress. Schalit: What do political history curators do? Lisa Kathleen Graddy: We try to document, through material culture, Americans relationship with their democracy, with their government, how they are affected by it, how they affect it, and how they interact with it. Material culture is all of the ephemera and the products that people make and use to express their opinions about politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Claire Jerry: We go into the field so we can watch people in real time working and interacting with these objects. But we also want to place that in a historical context. Obviously none of us were able to watch anyone do that in 1860 or 1896, but by watching how people do it today, we can go back and reinterpret the objects that we collected from the past. Jon Grinspan: We try to explain the past to the present and the present to the future. Were trying to draw from our really broad, deep history of democracy to make some sense of the present. Schalit: What are some notable items in your collection? Graddy: One of my favorite objects is a banner from Thomas Jeffersons 1801 inauguration. It has a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, and an eagle is holding one of two ribbons above his head. And the ribbons say, T. Jefferson, President of the United States, John Adams is no more. A cloth banner celebrates the electoral victory of Thomas Jefferson over John Adams in the presidential election of 1800. Smithsonian National Museum of American History The election of 1800 was an ugly, bitterly fought election that tore apart two friends Jefferson and Adams and pitted parties against each other. But its also one of the moments when we knew democracy would work. The losing side left, the winning side came in, and the response was, well meet you again in four years and well try it again. Its one of the things that I look at that reminds me that weve been in bad places before, and weve worked through them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jerry: I often follow Lisa Kathleen telling that beautiful story and warming everybodys hearts by telling stories about the more ridiculous and goofy things that happen in campaigns. And one of my favorite objects in the museum is the 1896 soap babies. They are 4-inch-long infants shaped out of soap that were produced by soap companies to promote both William McKinley, the Republican nominee, and William Jennings Bryan, the Democratic nominee. They came in little boxes with tags that said, My pas for free silver! My dad will vote the gold standard! Because, of course, nothing says economic policy like a 4-inch naked baby made out of soap. They of course had nothing to do with economic policy. Voters apparently hated them because they thought they looked too much like babies in coffins. Made for the 1896 campaign of William Jennings Bryan, this infant-shaped soap in a cardboard box has a tag promoting the policies of Bryans Democratic Party. Smithsonian National Museum of American History, Ralph E. Becker Collection of Political Americana But I like to talk about them because I love to talk about how technology has influenced what we collect over the years and what we use in campaigns. This was all about soap manufacturers saying, look at the new, cool things we can make out of soap. Grinspan: We have two blue umbrellas. One is kind of a demure 1950s umbrella from Dwight Eisenhowers campaign that says, I like Ike all over. And we have a blue umbrella from the 2016 campaign, used by Bernie Sanders protesters outside of the Democratic convention. It has Sanders name scrawled all over it. Its really loud in just the writing. And even if you didnt know how to read, even if you didnt know who Eisenhower and Sanders were, these objects speak materially to tell you something about their era. Schalit: What are you going to look for at the convention? Grinspan: Obviously were going to look for materials about a former president whos running for the second time, about the relationship between the campaign and the party, and the party and the grassroots or anonymous campaigners. But I really dont think its a good idea to go out there with a checklist. A lot of collecting is spontaneous. You see an object that just captures a moment or expresses something really striking or speaks to other items in our collection in a way that is ineffable or beyond words. Schalit: How do you go about collecting when youre at one of these events? Graddy: We scavenge. We trawl through the place and pick things up, from signs that are left to signs theyre handing out. But we are also, um, extremely polite. I dont want to say were stalkers, but we observe people. We spot the thing that we think were interested in and we walk up ever so nicely with a handshake and a business card and say, Hi, Im Lisa Kathleen Graddy. Im a curator at the Smithsonian Institution. I really like your hat. Would you like to talk about maybe becoming a part of the national narrative at the museum on the Mall? Schalit: Whats the craziest thing youve had to carry back from a political event? Graddy: The standards at conventions, the big columnlike signs that give the states name, are very popular souvenirs. Convention organizers assume they will go missing throughout the convention, and they have more of them. We frequently try to get the standard of the candidates state. We were very lucky that, while there was no getting the New York standard at the Republican convention in 2016, Jon and I talked to the delegations from Indiana and Colorado who decided that they would hold on to theirs and guard them for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last night of the convention, the delegations all signed them and Jon and I walked out of the convention with two standards. Heading to our car, they were getting a little heavy, so we actually got into a pedicab. Somewhere in the world there are cellphone pictures of us sitting in a pedicab with these two delegation standards, driving down the road in Cleveland. Schalit: Claire, you recently went to the Libertarian convention. What did you find there? The porcupine became the official mascot of the Libertarian Party in 2020. This button was given away at the 2024 Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C. Smithsonian National Museum of American History Jerry: The Libertarian convention felt much more like a historic convention, in the sense that they dont have a candidate already designated, and they also dont run as a team, so you have separate groups of people running for vice president and president. All of those candidates have tables in a vendor area with buttons and flyers and books theyve written and lanyards, all of which I picked up. One of the things we do is pick up whats available to anybody whos attending the convention. I was interested to see that the Libertarians have an official symbol, which is a very elegant torch. But they also have an animal. We are all accustomed to red, white and blue elephants and donkeys. I was less accustomed to yellow and gold porcupines, which is the Libertarian symbol. Seeing people wearing porcupine-themed clothing and handing out porcupine buttons was a lot of fun. GAROWE, Somalia (Reuters) - Security forces in Somalia repulsed an attack by Islamic State suicide bombers on a military base in the northeastern region of Puntland on Tuesday, the local state broadcaster and a military official said. It was the first time Islamic State has attempted such a large and sophisticated attack in the country, coming weeks after the semi-autonomous state announced a major offensive against Islamic State and a rival Islamist group, the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab. The deputy speaker of Puntland's parliament was visiting the base at the time of the attack, Captain Yusuf Mohamed, an officer in Puntland's counter-terrorism forces, told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said nine suicide bombers had been killed and several soldiers had been injured. Puntland State TV said on Facebook eight suicide bombers were among those killed in the raid near the town of Dharjaale in the Bari region. Somalia's information minister did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The group was officially recognised as the Somali province of Islamic State in 2017 and has been based in the mountainous areas of Puntland. For many years, it was considered a minor security threat in the Horn of Africa country compared with al Shabaab, which controls swathes of southern Somalia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, however, the Somali franchise has refashioned itself as an important part of the jihadist group's worldwide network, with its head, Abdulqadir Mumin, being named its global leader by some media outlets. Security analysts say Islamic State in Somalia has grown in strength because of an influx of foreign fighters and improved revenue through the extortion of local businesses, becoming the group's "nerve centre" in Africa. "This looks like a preemptive strike to send a message before Puntland's upcoming offensive," said Jay Bahadur, co-director of Scopus, a regionally focused investigative consultancy. "If this included a vehicle bomb, it appears that they are directly trying to copy al Shabaab's tactics of complex attacks." (Reporting by Abdiqani Hassan in Garowe and Hereward Holland in Nairobi; Additional reporting by Abdi Sheikh in Mogadishu; Writing by Hereward Holland; Editing by Alison Williams) The News South Korea issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, weeks after he declared martial law and plunged the country into political turmoil. Prosecutors were on Tuesday granted the warrant, issued on charges of abuse of authority and orchestrating a rebellion, after Yoon refused to respond to at least three court summons, according to South Koreas anti-corruption agency. It marks the first time the country has sought to detain a current president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidents attorney called the warrant illegal and invalid and vowed to challenge it in court. Yoon was impeached and stripped of his powers on Dec. 14 following days of massive protests across South Korea. Less than two weeks later, lawmakers voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo for refusing to appoint judges to the Constitutional Court that will decide whether to formally remove Yoon from office. South Korean deputy prime minister and finance minister Choi Sang-mok is now acting president. A team of U.S. investigators arrived in South Korea to assist local aviation officials as they comb the wreckage of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 aircraft that crashed Sunday, killing 179 people. Three members of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board are leading the U.S. team, which also includes advisers from the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing and CFM International, a jet-engine manufacturer. Some of those advisers will be on site and others will remain in the U.S., the NTSB said. PHOTO: Investigators including officials from South Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board, U.S. National Transportation Safety Board at the scene where a Jeju Air aircraft crashed in Muan, South Korea, on Dec. 31, 2024. (YONHAP/AFP via Getty Images) "Additional NTSB investigative staff are standing by to assist if needed, including specialists in recorders, powerplants, and survival factors, among other specialties," the board said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators could be seen Tuesday moving around the crash site at Muan International Airport. Some were on their hands and knees, combing for forensic evidence. Others were walking the runway, scouring the area and collecting pieces of the plane. Spread over the crash site were twisted plane seats, torn in-flight magazines, pieces of clothing and any number of other small pieces of debris. Jeju Air Flight 2216 was landing just before 9 a.m. when the plane went off the runway and crashed into a wall. There were a total of 175 passengers and six crew members aboard the Boeing 737, which had taken off from Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 179 people aboard the flight were killed, with two flight attendants -- a man and a woman -- being the only survivors of the crash. In the wake of the deadly plane crash, local officials are also now investigating similar aircraft models that are operating in airports around the country. PHOTO: Firefighters and rescue personnel work near the wreckage of a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 series aircraft after the plane crashed and burst into flames at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province, Dec. 29, 2024. (Jung Yeon-je/AFP via Getty Images) MORE: 179 dead, 2 rescued after plane crashes while landing in South Korea Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials were continuing to identify the victims of the crash. Five of the remains were still unidentified as of Tuesday, local officials said. The remains of four individuals being transported to their respective families for funeral. Authorities are conducting a full investigation into over 100 aircraft that are the same model, B737-800. The planes are currently operating in six local airlines, officials said. The investigation includes reviewing the maintenance history of the engines, landing gears and the aircraft's operation records. "There are no plans to suspend operations, but they will examine those parts once more and check them thoroughly during the inspection process," said Song Kyung-hoon, head of Jeju Air's Management Support Division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Muan International Airport runway will be closed for the investigation until Jan. 7, officials said. PHOTO: Workers operate at the site of an aircraft that crashed after it went off the runway at Muan International Airport, in Muan, South Korea, Dec. 30, 2024. (Kim Hong-Ji/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: 2 survivors recovering as South Korean officials probe Jeju Air plane crash The two flight attendants who survived the crash were recovering at separate hospitals in Seoul on Monday, according to the Korean Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport. Neither survivor had life-threatening injuries, the ministry said, adding that both had awoken in the hospital without a clear recollection of what had happened after they heard a blast during the landing. PHOTO: SKOREA-AVIATION-ACCIDENT (YONHAP/AFP via Getty Images) The man, who was identified only by his surname Lee, was receiving treatment for fractures in an intensive care unit. He was alert and speaking with medical staff, Ju Woong, director of the Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, said at a press conference on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "[Lee is] fully able to communicate," Woong added. "There's no indication yet of memory loss or such." The woman, a 25-year-old flight attendant named Koo, was also recovering, though not in intensive care, according to hospital staff and officials, as well as the Korean Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport. ABC News' Sam Sweeney and Joe Simonetti contributed to this report. Investigators comb South Korean runway, searching for answers in deadly Jeju Air plane crash originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) is reportedly shifting its focus to Middle Eastern crude oil to address a shortfall from Russian suppliers, reported Reuters, citing BPCL head of finance Vetsa Ramakrishna Gupta. Indian state refiners, traditionally reliant on the spot market for Russian crude, are currently facing a supply gap of approximately eight to ten million barrels for January loading, as earlier sources indicated this month. India, a prominent buyer of Russian seaborne oil post-European Union sanctions against Moscow due to the Ukraine conflict, now finds over one-third of its energy imports affected. BPCL, specifically, has not received its expected Russian oil volume from the spot market, according to a statement by the company on 26 December. Gupta added: "There may be a shortage of two to three cargoes per month ... whatever is the shortage of Russian crude, we are purchasing that from Middle East only." Russian oil, which constitutes about 35% to 37% of the crude processed by BPCL's three refineries with a combined capacity of 706,000 barrels per day, is experiencing a decline in exports. This is due to increased domestic demand in Russia and obligations to adhere to production quotas set by the organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). "Next year if there is any major impact on Russian supplies, we will explore more sources including WTI (West Texas Intermediate) crude or Middle Eastern crudes, whichever is cheaper", Gupta said. The situation is exacerbated by Russian state oil firm Rosneft's ten-year contract with Indian private refiner Reliance, commencing in 2025, to supply 500,000 barrels per day, which could account for half of Rosneft's exports and constrict supplies for other buyers. In response, BPCL is expanding its supplier base, having recently procured Argentinian crude for the first time. The company secures around 53% of its oil through term agreements and plans to include 10,000 barrels per day from Qatar in the fiscal year 2025/26 while maintaining existing term contracts. BPCL has outlined an investment strategy of 1.7tn rupees ($19.94bn) over the five years to 2028/29, with half expected to be funded through debt. "BPCL purchases Middle East oil to offset Russian supply shortfall" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) A South Korean court issued warrants Tuesday to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol and search his office and residence over allegations of rebellion in connection with his short-lived declaration of martial law. It's the first time a warrant has been issued to detain a sitting South Korean president. But experts say there is little chance of detention or searches unless Yoon is formally removed from office. The Seoul Western District Court issued warrants to detain Yoon and to search the presidential office and residence in central Seoul, according to a statement from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials, which is leading a joint investigation with police and military authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency says it's been investigating whether Yoon's Dec. 3 declaration amounted to rebellion. Under South Korean law, the leader of a rebellion can face the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted. Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, but the privilege does not extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. Yoon's powers have been suspended since the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to impeach him on Dec. 14 over his imposition of martial law, during which hundreds of troops and police officers were deployed at the assembly. By law, a president in South Korea is allowed to declare martial law only during wartime or similar emergencies and has no right to suspend parliaments operations even under martial law. Yoon has argued his decree was a legitimate act of governance, calling it a warning to the main liberal opposition Democratic Party which he has called a monster and anti-state forces that has used its legislative majority to impeach top officials, undermine the governments budget, and which he claims sympathizes with North Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Constitutional Court is to determine whether to dismiss Yoon as president or reinstate him. Experts said Yoon is likely to ignore the warrants. He's already dodged repeated requests by investigative authorities to appear for questioning, and the presidential security service has blocked attempts to search his office and residence citing a law that bans raids on sites with state secrets. Yoon Kap-keun, a lawyer for the president, called the detainment warrant invalid" and illegal," saying the anti-corruption agency lacks legal authority to investigate rebellion charges. The presidential security service said it will provide security to Yoon in accordance with the law. The anti-corruption agency said it has no immediate plans on when it would proceed with the warrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unless Yoon voluntarily lets them detain him, there is no way to detain him, said Choi Jin, director of the Seoul-based Institute of Presidential Leadership. Should investigators have hand-to-hand fights with the security service? Choi said that investigators were still likely to visit Yoons residence to show they are strictly and fairly carrying out their work. Park Sung-min, president of Seoul-based political consulting firm MIN Consulting, said the push for an arrest warrant is likely an attempt to pressure Yoon to cooperate with investigations. Former President Park Geun-hye, who was thrown out of office in 2017 following an impeachment over a corruption scandal, also refused to meet with prosecutors while in office. She underwent questioning by them and was arrested after the Constitutional Court removed her from office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoon's imposition of martial law lasted only six hours but triggered huge political turmoil, halting high-level diplomacy and rattling financial markets. Despite Yoon's deployment of troops and police, enough lawmakers managed to enter the assembly chamber to overturn it unanimously. Yoon's defense minister, police chief and several top military commanders have already been arrested over their roles in the martial law enactment. Yoon has claimed he wasn't trying to stop the functioning of the assembly, saying that the troops were sent to maintain order, and also denied planning to arrest politicians. But comments by now-arrested commanders of military units sent to the assembly have contradicted this claim. Kwak Jong-keun, the commander of the Army Special Warfare Command, testified at the National Assembly that Yoon called on troops to quickly knock down the door and drag out the lawmakers who are inside." Kwak said he did not carry out Yoons orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The country's political crisis deepened last Friday, when the Democratic Party and other small opposition parties voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo as well over wrangling over his refusal to fill in three justice seats at the nine-member Constitutional Court. Observers say adding more justices could increase prospects for the court's endorsement of Yoon's impeachment as that requires support from at least six justices. The deputy prime minister and finance minister, Choi Sang-mok, has become South Koreas new interim leader. On Tuesday, Choi appointed two new justices, saying he feels the urgency to resolve political uncertainty and national divide. Choi's moves drew rebukes from both the ruling and opposition parties. The governing People Power Party accused him of surrendering to the oppositions political offensive, while the main liberal opposition Democratic Party urged Choi to quickly appoint the remaining ninth justice. SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korean Acting President Choi Sang-mok called for national harmony and unity and for trust in the government in a New Year's address on Tuesday, amid an unprecedented political crisis sparked by impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial law declaration. "The Republic of Korea is in an unprecedentedly serious situation," Choi said in a written statement, citing changes around global trade, diplomacy and security, as well as domestic political uncertainty. "The government will do its best to run state affairs stably in all areas of defence, diplomacy, economy and society for the people to feel relieved," Choi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Choi, the country's finance minister, became acting leader on Friday night after the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who had been acting president since Yoon was impeached and suspended from power on Dec. 14 following his attempt to impose martial law on Dec. 3. Assuming multiple roles as acting president, acting prime minister, deputy prime minister for economic affairs and finance minister, Choi has also been leading the minister-level central disaster control team since the deadliest plane crash in the country on Sunday that killed 179 people. Choi said the government would make efforts for national harmony and unity, vowing to communicate closely with ruling and opposition party politicians as well as social leaders, and he asked for trust from the people and businesses. Choi said the alliance with the United States would remain ironclad and the government would be prepared to respond swiftly to any foreign affairs, security or trade issues after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the economy, Choi said the government would come up with support measures for small businesses and the self-employed in a timely manner to invigorate domestic demand, while working closely with related agencies to keep financial and foreign exchange markets stable. (Reporting by Jihoon Lee; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) Two Los Angeles residents were arrested after investigators caught them using girdle-style devices to hide stolen merchandise on their bodies, including 17 pairs of jeans stolen from the Camarillo Premium Outlets. The arrests followed a month-long investigation into thefts at Under Armour stores in Camarillo and Carlsbad, with losses totaling $4,500. Jose Mujica, 61, and Anyela Corredor-Casallas, 52, were taken into custody on Dec. 17 after Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force detectives observed the pair leaving an Under Armour store at the outlet mall. Mujica had previously been identified as a suspected shoplifter from the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12 new laws could help Californians save money The two were found with stolen items stuffed into girdles they were wearing, along with additional merchandise and tools to bypass security in their vehicle, officials said. Notably, during their arrest, detectives found 17 pairs of jeans from another store concealed in their girdles. They were arrested and booked into jail on $100,000 bail to face felony charges including conspiracy to commit organized retail theft and burglary. Alleged rapist doctor used job recruiting sites to meet victims: LAPD A judge later ordered Corredor-Casallas to be released on her own recognizance, while Mujica posted bail after it was reduced to $20,000. They are scheduled to appear in court Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force encourages anyone with information about organized retail theft to call 805-383-8703 or the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 800-222-8477. According to the Ventura County Sheriffs Office, retail theft has resulted in a $10 million yearly loss to local business. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. SpaceX put the final countdown in the books for the Space Coast early Tuesday adding one more to the record pace of launches for the year. A Falcon 9 rocket carrying 21 Starlink satellites lifted off from Kennedy Space Centers Launch Pad 39-A at 12:39 a.m. The first-stage booster flew for the 16th time having previously flown the Crew-6 mission among its 15 other flights. It made a recovery landing on the droneship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It marked the 93rd orbital launch from either KSC or neighboring Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with all but five launches coming from SpaceX. The pace of launches blew by 2023s total of 72 launches back in October, but fell short of the forecast of as many as 111 launches predicted back in January. For SpaceX, it flew 26 missions from KSC including two Falcon Heavy launches in 2024. It launches another 62 from Canaverals Space Launch Complex 40. United Launch Alliance flew the other five missions sending up two of its new Vulcan rockets and two Atlas V rockets from Canaverals Space Launch Complex 41 while the final Delta IV Heavy launch took off from Space Launch Complex 37. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SpaceX also flew 46 from Californias Vandenberg Space Force Base setting a company record of 134 orbital missions for the year. It also flew its in-development Starship and Super Heavy on four suborbital test flights from its Texas launch site Starbase. Among the Space Coast launches were five human spaceflights carrying 16 people to space. Those include the Starliner flight from ULA to the International Space Station, and four launches of SpaceXs Crew Dragon. SpaceXs launches of the Crew-8 and Crew-9 missions as well as its flight for Axiom Space on the Ax-3 mission also went to the ISS. The Polaris Dawn mission took billionaire and the next nominee to head NASA, Jared Isaacman, and three others on an orbital mission that featured the first commercial space walk. FAA issues launch license for Blue Origin New Glenn rocket Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One rocket that didnt launch in 2024 is Blue Origins New Glenn, which had been trying to get its debut mission off the ground before the end of the year. The Federal Aviation Administration only gave Jeff Bezos company a launch license for the heavy-lift rocket on Friday, which was also when Blue Origin was able to finally perform a test hot fire of the rocket on the pad at Canaverals Space Launch Complex 36. The FAA has cleared the NG-1 Blue Ring Pathfinder mission for a Jan. 5-6 launch attempt during a window from 11:30 p.m. until 2:45 a.m. and a backup Jan. 6-7 during the same window, but Blue Origin has yet to announce its target launch date. (This story was updated to include the new Thuraya-4 launch window, which now extends from 8:27 p.m. Thursday to 12:53 a.m. Friday.) A record-setting year for rocket launches wrapped up on New Year's Eve with the Space Coast's 93rd and final liftoff of 2024, shattering the short-lived annual mark. SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket in post-midnight darkness at 12:39 a.m. EST Tuesday from pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, lifting 21 Starlink satellites up into low-Earth orbit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The final 2024 tally of 93 orbital launches represents a 29% leap over the previous yearly record of 72, which was just established in 2023 from KSC and neighboring Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. And officials expect the Cape's cadence to continue speeding up. "Space Florida estimates the state must prepare to support transporting 5,000 metric tons of cargo annually to space by 2035. This scale equates to 219 Falcon 9 launches, 40 Starship launches, 194 ULA Vulcan launches, or 111 New Glenn launches a testament to the immense growth trajectory of the industry," the agency said in a Dec. 19 press release. Rocket photography: FLORIDA TODAY's 2025 Space Launch Calendar is here Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuesday's early morning Starlink 12-6 mission marked that Falcon 9 first-stage boosters 16th flight, SpaceX reported. The booster which previously launched Crew-6, BlueBird-1, USSF-124, mPOWER-B and 11 Starlink missions landed aboard SpaceX's drone ship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic Ocean. All told, SpaceX notched 134 Falcon launches from Florida and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California this year. "Ultimately, there is only one number that truly matters. ZERO failures. Our priority is and will remain safety and reliability above all else," Kiko Dontchev, SpaceX vice president of launch, said in a Friday tweet. "Lastly, a huge shout out to the men and women of @SpaceX. 2024 would simply be a dream without your relentless dedication and ingenuity. Heres to an awesome last couple of days in 2024 and an even better 2025!" Dontchev said. The @SpaceX team also achieved an unprecedented launch cadence, conducting 134 Falcon launches with 89 dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation pic.twitter.com/UxfIrTyqlZ Starlink (@Starlink) December 31, 2024 Next Cape launch scheduled for Thursday Looking ahead, a different SpaceX Falcon 9 will launch Space42s Thuraya-4 geostationary telecommunications satellite Thursday, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That launch window for the Thuraya-4 mission extends from 8:27 p.m. Thursday to 12:53 a.m. Friday from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. "The new Thuraya 4 geostationary satellite will deliver superior capabilities and increase coverage across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East, enabling next-generation mobility solutions for customers," an Airbus press release said. "In 2020, Airbus was selected to build Thuraya 4 by Yahsat, now part of Space42, the UAEs AI-powered SpaceTech company with global reach," the press release said. FLORIDA TODAY Space Team live coverage of the mission will start about 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rick Neale is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Neale at Rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1 Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Florida's Space Coast notches record 93rd rocket launch in single year In the weeks since Bashar al-Assad was ousted as Syrian leader, Russia has launched multiple flights to an airbase in the Libyan desert. Moscows goal appears to be to find an alternative stopover for its growing military involvement in Africa and a way to retain its military presence in the Mediterranean. For nearly a decade, the Hmeimim air base and Tartus naval facility on the Syrian coast have served both purposes. Now the conflict-riven North African nation of Libya is central to Russian efforts to project power into the Mediterranean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flight-tracking data analyzed by CNN show more than one flight a day since mid-December by Moscows giant Antonov AN-124 transport planes, as well as Ilyushin IL-76 aircraft from Hmeimim to al-Khadim, a base near Benghazi in eastern Libya. Earlier this month, US and Western officials told CNN that Russia had begun withdrawing a large amount of military equipment and troops from Syria. The equipment transferred may have included advanced Russian air defense systems. CNN saw imagery of these systems waiting to be flown out of Syria shortly before the Russian flights started. On December 28, an Antonov returned to Hmeimim from Libya. A Russian Ilyushin Il-76MD plane flies over Moscow during a rehearsal for the Victory Day parade in May 2022. - Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agencya/Getty Images Jalel Harchaoui, an associate fellow at the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) think tank, told CNN there has been an undeniable spike in Russian aircraft landing in Libya from Syria, Russia and Belarus in recent weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hmeimim has been the hub from which Russian mercenary operations in Africa at first in the Central African Republic and later in Sudan, Libya, Mali and Burkina Faso were sustained. By strengthening its presence in Libya, Moscow may retain enough capability to pursue its broader ambitions further south in Africa, absorbing the new costs inevitably associated with Assads downfall, Harchaoui said. Geolocated video shows at least one of the planes that recently arrived at al-Khadim flew on to Bamako in Mali, where Russia has recently supplanted long-term French influence. Russian flights to Bamako via Libya demonstrate that Russia has already turned to Libya as an alternative to its Syrian bases, analysts at the American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats project said in a briefing note. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flights are not consistent with the previous pattern of Russian Africa Corps rotations to Bamako, it added. Russias Africa Corps, under the aegis of its defense ministry, is the successor to the Wagner mercenary group in Africa. The Russians have had a foothold at al-Khadim for several years, while supplying mercenary fighters and weapons to support Gen. Khalifa Haftar, the self-declared ruler of much of eastern Libya. The investigative outfit All Eyes on Wagner reported earlier this year that a secure compound had been built near the base for Russian personnel transiting to other parts of Africa. A deputy Russian defense minister, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, has made several visits to Libya to consolidate links with Haftar in the past two years. That relationship may be set to deepen if the Russian navy is eyeing a port under Haftars control as an alternative to its facility at Tartus in Syria. A closer view of the hangars and parking area at al-Khadim on December 28. - Maxar Technologies NATO concerns The prospect is not going down well in NATO capitals. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto told Italian daily La Repubblica that, Russian ships and submarines in the Mediterranean are always a concern, and even more so if instead of being 1,000 kilometers away they are two steps from us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its no coincidence perhaps that a week ago the Italian militarys chief of staff, Gen. Luciano Portolano, visited Tripoli where Haftars United Nations-backed rivals govern. According to a senior NATO official, the 32-member defensive alliance is monitoring activity in both Tobruk and Benghazi in Libya. A Mediterranean home for Russian warships is critical to Moscow as the Black Sea fleet is not permitted to transit the Bosphorus while Russia is at war with Ukraine. Russia has not deployed naval vessels to Tobruk just yet, which is very smart since such a brazen move could have provoked NATOs mobilization prematurely, Harchaoui said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haftar is a mercurial and ageing leader in a chronically divided and volatile country. Haftar is often switching allegiances, only controls half of the country and is, at an age of 81, not exactly a youthful figure, said Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel Program at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Mali. There is no legal agreement like with Syria, and Haftar could anytime show the Russians the door, Laessing added. He could exploit his position to demand more sophisticated Russian hardware which Moscow can ill afford to spare. In some ways, Libya is a poor substitute for Syria. Transport planes can only practically reach Libya from Russia if they are allowed to overfly Turkey, providing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with a handy bargaining chip. The al-Khadim air base in Libya on December 17. - Maxar Technologies Damascus ambivalent Its not clear that Syrias new leadership is determined to kick the Russian military out of Hmeimim and Tartus. Interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa said in an interview this week that the new government does not want Russia to leave the country in a manner that does not fit its relations with Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But given Syrias uncertain trajectory, Moscow will want to hedge its bets in a region of growing strategic importance. Even if the new rulers allow Russia to keep the Hmeimim air and Tartus naval bases it will have to cut down its troop levels and logistics such as ammunition warehouses in Syria as they are no longer needed to support Assad, Laessing said. Harchaoui agreed, saying that even if Russia maintains some presence in Syria, the level of comfort, logistical ease and security it once enjoyed under Assad will never return. Russian President Vladimir Putin has shrugged off Assads ouster but Laessing said his fall was a real blow to Putins Africa ambitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement African governments that have leaned towards Moscow for their security may now think twice about its reliability, which will hamper its ability to strike new deals for the Africa Corps mercenaries, said Laessing. It didnt (go) unnoticed in Mali or Niger that Russia did not come to Assads help. Even so, Russia has dragged a coal from the fire of Assads demise, said Harchaoui. Its logistical network has neither been destroyed nor entirely decimated; it has merely been degraded and rendered more costly, more uncertain, and shakier. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com ST. PETERSBURG Every December, a routine City Council meeting to elect a chairperson and vice chairperson for the coming year opens a window into alliances, feuds and where the power lies at City Hall. This years vote, in particular, illustrated how the Tampa Bay Rays stadium ordeal has affected city politics. And the leadership tussle could be a harbinger of next years council dynamics. It took five rounds of voting Dec. 12 to pick Copley Gerdes as chairperson. Newly elected council members Corey Givens and Mike Harting backed Lisset Hanewicz, who has consistently voted against the Rays deal. Other members threw their votes to Gerdes, the current vice chairperson and a supporter of the deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Givens said he pushed for Hanewicz in part because he sees her as independent of the mayors administration. But others took issue with Hanewiczs questioning of the stadium deal. Just because you can put a sentence together, you can talk loud, you may be the smartest person in this drawer, does not put you in a guaranteed leadership position, current chairperson Deborah Figgs-Sanders said to explain her vote for Gerdes over Hanewicz. This has been a very rough year. Gina Driscoll, who has been seen as a tiebreaker on the Rays deal but ultimately has voted in favor of it, eventually flipped her vote from Hanewicz to Gerdes for chairperson. She then nominated Hanewicz for vice chairperson. Brandi Gabbard nominated Richie Floyd. Another five rounds of voting ensued before Hanewicz won out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hanewicz, the only attorney on the council, has picked apart the stadium deals legal agreements. She was the only council member to recently press Rays president Brian Auld on whether the team was still a willing party in the deal. I led the charge in asking questions that I thought needed to be answered, Hanewicz said during the vice chairperson vote. She added, People may take issue with how I may ask questions, but Ive never attacked people personally. Its on the facts. Its always on the facts. Gerdes switched his vote from Floyd to Hanewicz to avoid flipping a coin to decide who would be vice chairperson. He told a reporter he hopes the council comes together to focus on whats best for the city of St. Petersburg. If we diverge ... a little, thats OK. Thats healthy, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Floyd, who nominated himself for chairperson but didnt receive any other votes for that position, said he doesnt think the coalitions behind either Gerdes or Hanewicz push hard enough against the interests of corporations. This year, Floyd voted against the Rays deal and a benefits package for Foot Locker to relocate its headquarters to St. Petersburg, both of which were approved by the council. Ultimately, I dont think the agendas of either of those groups of people are really all that different, he said. Neither of them are pushing for the agenda I think is best for the city. Being the council chairperson isnt just ceremonial. It comes with the power of placing council members on committees and boards, calling for special meetings and having a say on what goes on the agenda. When the chairperson is absent, the vice chairperson fills in and usually becomes chairperson the following year if colleagues vote that way. Givens and Harting will be sworn in as new council members at 11 a.m. Thursday at City Hall. Figgs-Sanders, who was reelected, will also be sworn in as will Gerdes and Hanewicz as chairperson and vice chairperson for 2025. A Stamford man is accused of setting his house on fire last week in what police believe was an attempt to defraud his insurance company. Joseph T. Pallas, 31, will be arraigned next month on charges of first-degree arson and insurance fraud in connection to the Dec. 27 fire. Burlington police chief urges prison for habitual offender Stamford firefighters attacked the blaze from inside and outside the home at 536 Mill Road and were able to save the structure, police said. Investigators from the Vermont Department of Public Safety Fire & Explosion Unit were called to the scene. After a lengthy investigation they determined Pallas intentionally set the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was cited Monday through his attorney and is scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court in Bennington on Feb. 24. No injuries were reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. AUSTIN (KXAN) 2025 is going to be a busy year among the stars. From moon missions to multiple meteor showers, outer space will again be a major topic throughout the year, especially in Texas. Fireflys Blue Ghost spacecraft will travel to the moon in early-2025. (Credit: Firefly Aerospace) At least 20 maiden flights are scheduled for 2025. Like all space missions, these flights could be delayed or canceled entirely. Four rockets built in the United States are scheduled, including the New Glenn from Blue Origin and the Neutron built by Rocket Lab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefly Aerospace, based just north of Austin in Cedar Park, will head to the moon early in the year. Blue Ghost I will carry 10 science and technology instruments to the lunar surface in mid-January. The mission, part of NASAs Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS), will take 45 days to reach the moon, before landing in Mare Crisium. The crater, located northeast of Mare Tranquillitatis, can be spotted on the far right corner of the moon with the naked eye. Aggies plant flag on future of lunar travel at Space Institute groundbreaking The mission will provide imagery of lunar sunset and provide data for future moon mission, including Artemis II. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preparations will be underway in 2025 for the next lunar mission, which will bring astronauts back into lunar orbit for the first time since the 1970s. That mission isnt scheduled until 2026. Humans in space One of the biggest stories of the year will be the return of stranded astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore. The two have been stuck on the International Space Station following issues with the Boeing-made Starliner spacecraft. FILE In this photo provided by NASA, Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts Butch Wilmore, left, and Suni Williams pose for a portrait inside the vestibule between the forward port on the International Space Stations Harmony module and Boeings Starliner spacecraft on June 13, 2024. (NASA via AP, File) The June 5 mission was supposed to last eight days but has since been extended to several months following doubts that the astronauts could return home safely aboard the spacecraft. That return is now scheduled for March 2025. The pair will return when NASAs SpaceX Crew-10 arrives on the ISS. Crew-11 will also board the space station later in the year. Meteor showers in 2025 There are several annual meteor showers throughout the year that will provide an excellent show for stargazers. Meteor shower composite created from 47 individual photos during the Geminids Meteor Shower. (Craig Taylor/Getty Images) Quadrantid Meteor Shower: January 3rd Lyrid Meteor Shower: April 21-22 Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower: May 6-7 Delta Aquarid: July 28-29 Draconid Meteor Shower: October 8-9 Leonid Meteor Shower: November 17-18 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All but the Draconid meteor shower will peak at midnight on the respective dates. Science experiments in space Several missions will launch this year from NASA that will conduct some really cool experiments. Texas Space Commission opens up applications for $150M grant The first is the SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer). Scheduled for deployment early in 2025, this mission will help scientists put together a 3D map of the universe. Launching alongside SPHEREx is PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere). This mission will study solar winds. NASAs SPHEREx space observatory was photographed at BAE Systems in Boulder, Colorado, in November 2024 after completing environmental testing. (Credit: BAE Systems) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IMAP (Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe) is scheduled to launch later in the year. It will help map the magnetic sphere surrounding the solar system. Also scheduled to launch later in the year is Sentinel-6B. This mission will monitor global sea levels and continue the mission of the Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich mission. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. New innovations in the denim industry transformed how denim is made, sold, repaired and shopped for in 2024. In the supply chain, mills, fiber producers and tech firms built on previous sustainable achievements with new or updated innovations. More from Sourcing Journal Tonello expanded the capabilities of Dyemate, a patented indigo garment dyeing technology that creates authentic, vintage looks through a combination of sulfur and indigo dyes. The latest version achieves denim-like effects on ready-to-dye garments. Indigo is added to the sulfur dye process, resulting in garments with rich workwear-inspired colors and indigo contrasts on the seams. Lenzing updated its Tencel Denim Laundry Manual for the first time in 20 years. Available to laundry professionals, the free manual offers dos and donts for using next-gen technologies like laser, ozone and nebulization on Tencel denim fabrics. B Corp AGI Denim tapped sustainability analytics platform Green Story to measure the environmental impact of its products in a credible and easy-to-understand manner. The partnership enables the Pakistani vertical denim manufacturer to provide digital product passports accessed via QR codes to its clients with footprint assessments and supply chain visualizations. This will allow clients to share transparent sustainability data with their own customers, creating a chain of trust and data. AGI Denim teams with Green Story. Jeanologia aligned with the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) and the H&M Foundation by joining the Open Lab initiative, a lab funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong government and housed at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The Spanish technology company, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of its laser technology in 2024, enhanced the lab with technological solutions that reduce water, chemical, and energy use in the textile industry. Key innovations include the H2 Zero water recovery system, a closed-loop process that allows for the reuse of water without chemicals while minimizing energy consumption. YKK innovated the design of its Vislon zippers, making them more sustainable in the process. In September, the company launched the Revived Renewal Series, a group of four products that allow zippers to be repaired easily. It includes replacement sliders, pullers and die-cast replacement teeth. Broken pieces can be repaired without needing any special tools. Gov. Kathy Hochul on Monday announced enhanced security measures being taken this week by state agencies ahead of New Years Eve. According to a news release from Hochuls office, agencies including the Division of State Police, New York National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will have increased staffing through the holiday, and security will be augmented at airports, bridges, tunnels and mass transit systems as a precautionary measure to help keep New Yorkers safe. As we gather in New York City to celebrate the start of a new year, Ive directed our State agencies to take all necessary steps to ensure that New Yorkers and visitors can celebrate safely and peacefully, Hochul said. Public safety is my top priority, and I am committed to using every tool at our disposal to keep you safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the release, state police will be at maximum staffing through the New Years holiday and there will be an increased presence of troopers at critical infrastructure and transportation facilities statewide. State Police will monitor all mass gatherings and share intelligence with other law enforcement agencies to keep New Yorkers safe, the release stated. Troopers will also be highly visible on interstates and state highways as part of a dedicated holiday traffic enforcement initiative targeting aggressive and impaired drivers. Hochul also urged New Yorkers to practice safety when engaging in celebrations, including using sparklers that can cause dangerous fires and injuries when not used properly. The State Office of Fire Prevention and Control states that sparkling devices are ground-based or handheld sparking devices that produce a shower of colored sparks or colored flame, crackling or whistling noise and smoke they do not launch into the air. Users must be 18 or older to use sparkling devices. The following fireworks are illegal statewide: firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners and aerial devices. Sales of sparkling devices by certified permanent and specialty retailers can only take place during the year from June 1 to July 5 and Dec. 26 to Jan. 2. Sales of sparkling devices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20 to July 5 and Dec. 26 to Jan. 2. Sparkler safety tips Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never allow young children to play with or ignite sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt some metals. Never throw or point sparkling devices toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow packaging instructions. Keep a water supply or an approved fire extinguisher nearby. Only light one sparkling device at a time and never attempt to relight a dud. Always use sparkling devices outdoors. Never light sparklers inside. Store sparkling devices in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. If you are impaired by alcohol, do not use sparkling devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Always wear eye protection when using sparkling devices. The state Office of Fire Prevention and Control also encourages parents and guardians to provide children and teens with non-flammable alternatives to sparkling devices, which can be easily found at most retail stores, such as glow sticks, pipe cleaner sparklers, fairy lights and LED items. VIENNA Twp., Ohio (WKBN) The commission overseeing Viennas fiscal emergency voted unanimously Monday to approve a multi-point plan. The Vienna Township Financial Planning and Supervision Commission approved a plan to eliminate a deficit of what is now less than $1 million and its members seem to agree it was a good place to start. It meets with the councils approval simply by the fact that it balances the budget within the time allotted, said commission member Mike Hillman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commission member and Vienna Trustee Mike Haddle said he thinks the plan is good. I think if its adopted, we could be out of fiscal emergency before the five-year timeline, he said. The plan includes continued use of traffic cameras generating an estimated $282,000 a year. Forty percent of the camera money will go to police and 40 percent to fire. The plan also assumes the passage of two renewal levies for police one for 1 mill and the other for 3 mills. The plans most precarious item is a proposed 3.5-mill levy on the May ballot for fire and ambulance service that would replace two 1-mill levies. So its really incumbent on the voters now to decide which levies they want to pass and if they pass, the plan will work. If they choose not to, well have to start over, Hillman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its going to be a tough sell if people dont understand that were not increasing it by 3.5 so their education has to happen, Haddle said. Not everyone at the meeting was pleased with the plan. After one woman was told she was not allowed to speak, she gathered some documents made available and left with a warning saying, You better vote no. Its going to be big on your taxes. Resident Jacqueline Sage has been to most of the meetings pertaining to Viennas money problems. She questions the amount of money expected to be generated. I think we need to do a little bit better as far as where we get our numbers from, Sage said Well, theyre based on traffic cameras where weve only gotten $3,000 from to begin with. Shes also doubtful that any additional taxes will pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As far as the levy money goes, no one wants to vote for it. No one wants to trust these people with more of our money. If the replacement fire levy passes, Vienna could have fire and ambulance service back by around this time next year. The townships deficit could be zero by 2027 or 2028 if everything goes as planned. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Former President Jimmy Carters official state funeral will be held Jan. 9, the same day of a national day of mourning over his passing that was announced by President Joe Biden on Sunday. Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy for the former president. Carter, the 39th U.S. president and first to reach age 100, died on Sunday. He had been in hospice care since February 2023 at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he lived with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. The former first lady died on Nov. 19, 2023, at age 96. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maranatha Baptist Church, where the former president was a member and taught Sunday school for many years, will hold a prayer vigil on Monday evening. Former President Jimmy Carter in 2011. Biden said in remarks last year that Carter had asked him to deliver the eulogy at his funeral before catching himself and adding, Excuse me, I shouldnt say that. Carter and Biden fostered a close relationship over many decades, with Carter, a former governor of Georgia, telling how Biden supported him when he ran for president. In pre-recorded remarks during the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Carter announced his support for then-candidate Biden, saying, When I ran for president in 1976, Joe Biden was my first and most effective supporter in the Senate. He added, For decades, he has been my loyal and dedicated friend. For Carters 100th birthday in October, Biden recognized him with a direct-to-camera birthday message shared with CBS News, saying: Mr. President, youve always been a moral force for our nation and the world. I recognized that as a young senator. Thats why I supported you so early. Youre a voice of courage, conviction, compassion, and most of all, a beloved friend of Jill and me and our family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president and first lady Jill Biden visited Carter in April 2021, soon after Biden took office, spending almost an hour with the 39th president and his wife. The two presidents last saw each other at Rosalynn Carters funeral in November 2023, where Biden said he had the opportunity to speak briefly with Carter and tell him how much he loved him. In a statement on Truth Social on Sunday, President-elect Donald Trump also paid tribute to Carter, writing that [t]he 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. Trump added, For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global human rights work, including his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts. Through his work with the Carter Center, which he established in 1982 with his wife Rosalynn, Carter spent decades working in developing nations on efforts to restore human rights and build democratic institutions. This article first appeared on NBCNews.com. This article was originally published on TODAY.com (WRBL) The schedule of state funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter have been released by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region. The services begin Jan. 4 and end on Jan. 9. Carters funeral schedule includes: A pause at his Boyhood Farm Motorcade to Atlanta A pause at the Georgia State Capitol Service at the Carter Presidential Center Public viewings in both Atlanta and Washington Funeral procession in Washington Service at the U.S. Capitol National Funeral Service at Washington National Cathedral Private service and interment in Plains, Georgia The Carter Family invites the public to pay their respects during either of the public viewings, the funeral procession in Washington, in the downtown area of Plains, or along the motorcade routes in Georgia and Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Full details are below. All times are Eastern. Saturday, Jan. 4 State funeral begins with family arrival in Americus. Motorcade travels through Plains to Atlanta with a stop from the Georgia State Capitol to the Carter Presidential Center. Full details are below. The state funeral begins with the arrival of the Carter Family at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia, at 10:15 a.m. Current and former Special Agents in Charge from the United States Secret Service Carter Protective Division will carry Carters remains to the hearse and walk alongside the hearse as the motorcade departs from the medical center. The motorcade then travels through Carters hometown of Plains, Georgia, to his boyhood home for a brief pause in front of his familys farm at 10:50 a.m. During the pause, the National Park Service will render a salute to the late president and ring the historic farm bell 39 times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the pause, the late president officially begins his final journey to Atlanta at 10:55 a.m. As the motorcade arrives in Atlanta, it will stop at Georgias State Capitol for a moment of silence by Gov. Brian Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Mayor of Atlanta Andre Dickens, members of the Georgia Legislature, and Georgia State Patrol Troopers at 3 p.m. Carters remains are then transported to the Carter Presidential Center for an arrival ceremony at 3:45 p.m. and service at 4 p.m. Following the service, he will lie in repose for mourners to come and pay their respects from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. Sunday, Jan. 5 and Monday, Jan. 6 The late president continues to lie in repose 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. The public is invited to pay their respects throughout this time. Tuesday, Jan. 7 Departure from the Carter Center with a ceremony at 9:30 a.m. Family travels to Washington. Carter will lie in state. The public is invited to pay respects from 7 p.m. to midnight. Full details are below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter departs the Carter Presidential Center one last time with ceremony at 9:30 a.m. The late president and his family then travel to Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia, at 10 a.m., where they will board Special Air Mission 39 to travel to Washington at 10:40 a.m. Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, at 12:45 p.m. where Carters remains are transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family will then travel by motorcade at 1:15 p.m. to the U.S. Navy Memorial where his remains are transferred from the hearse to a horse drawn caisson for a funeral procession up to the U.S. Capitol at 2 p.m. Upon arrival at the U.S. Capitol, the late president is carried by military body bearers into the Rotunda where members of Congress will pay their respects during a service at 3 p.m. Carter will then lie in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. The public is invited to pay their respects as he lies in state from 7 p.m. to midnight. Wednesday, Jan. 9 The late president continues to lie in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. The public is invited to pay their respects from 7 a.m. on Jan. 8., 2025 until 7 a.m. on Jan. 9, 2025. Thursday, Jan. 9 Carter departs U.S. Capitol at 9 a.m. After two ceremonies, he makes his final journey home to Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special Air Mission 39 arrives in Fort Moore at 2 p.m. Carter and family travel by motorcade to Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains at 3:30 p.m. Carter and family travel to their residence for a private interment. Public is invited to line motorcade route. A flyover with the U.S. Navy will be held. Full details are below. Carter departs the U.S. Capitol with ceremony for his last time at 9 a.m. The motorcade then travels to Washington National Cathedral for a brief arrival ceremony at 9:30 a.m., followed by the National Funeral Service at 10 a.m. Upon conclusion of the service, Carter and his family will travel by motorcade at 11:15 a.m. to Joint Base Andrews, Md., where they board Special Air Mission 39 at 11:45 a.m. for his final journey home to Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Lawson Army Airfield on Fort Moore, Georgia, at 2 p.m., where Carters remains are transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family then travel by motorcade to Maranatha Baptist Church, Plains, Georgia, arriving at 3:30 p.m., followed by a private funeral service at 3:45 p.m. After the funeral service, the late president, and his family travel by a motorcade at 4:45 p.m. to the Carter residence for a private interment at 5:20 p.m. The public is invited to line the motorcade route as Carter and his family travel through his beloved hometown of Plains, Georgia to the late presidents final resting place. Prior to interment, the U.S. Navy will conduct a missing man formation flyover in honor of former President Carters naval service and time as commander-in-chief shortly after the motorcades arrival at the residence. The public is asked to make note of these factors: Mourners are asked to arrive early and plan accordingly for any portion of the state funeral open to the public. Lines for public repose and lying in state may be long. Security procedures will be in place, and it is recommended all personal items are left at home or in vehicles to help expedite screening No public parking is available at the Carter Presidential Center. Additional details on the shuttle service being provided by MARTA will be released shortly. Official presidential and family information is available at www.JimmyCarterTribute.org Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A local coffee chain is giving a huge boost to an organization with a mission to empower people with disabilities, by giving them careers. Local coffee chain Stella Nova is pouring itself in with nonprofit coffee shop Not Your Average Joe and handing over the keys. This donation is a huge perk for the nonprofits mission. Within the first year alone, theyre hoping to create 100 jobs for people with disabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coffee shops Stella Nova and Not Your Average Joe are brewing up something extraordinary and its not just the coffee. I thought its kind of like taking Stella Nova to the next level, said John Kennedy, co-founder of Stella Nova. For seven years, Stella Nova has been perking up the metro with its four locations. Kennedy was in charge of style and ambiance. My son did that painting, my sister did the dolls, and so weve just its always been kind of a family process., Kennedy said, while pointing to the art around the shop. Co-founder, Kelli Lay, made the system efficient, but now, its time for a new chapter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were ready to move on and to do more. To expand and grow, said Lay. The two recently met with Tim Herbel, the founder of Not Your Average Joe coffee shop. We employ those who have intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities, said Herbel. Were like Hey, instead of just putting those adults with special needs off by themselves, what if we included them into society where everybody is?' A recent discussion between the three of them turned into an unexpected gift. Mercy chaplain uses AI to minister to patients after ALS takes away her voice John asked, Hey, how would you feel about us folding Stella Nova in? Would that propel the mission forward to include people of all abilities? And obviously, the answer unequivocally is Yes,' said Herbel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We actually donated all of the assets of stuff, so we donated the four shops that we have. We donate an intellectual property. We donated the infrastructure here, said Kennedy. I fell in love with the mission. Herbel said the donation isnt just pouring into the non-profits mission, but into dozens of lives. This donation will enable us to employ this next year over 100 friends who have superpowers, said Herbel. Kenney and Lay said they hope NYAJ will eventually push beyond Oklahomas state lines and employ thousands of people with disabilities. A good cause, in every cup of coffee. Everything you create, you want it to live beyond you because youre not going to live forever despite coffee being a preservative, said Herbel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though this was a huge donation, it still costs a lot of money to merge the two entities. They still need $400,000. Fortunately, a generous family has already donated half of that. If youd like to donate, you can find the link here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Steve Bannon is ramping up his attack on Elon Musk. And this time hes threatening violence. The house of MAGA has been in flames this week over Musks plan to protect immigrants with H-1B visas, while diehard conservatives like the president-elects former strategist Bannon and Trump loyalist Laura Loomer have said foreign workers should be deported and replaced with real Americans. On the last episode of the year for Bannons War Room podcast, he sent a threatening message to the SpaceX founder: Dont come up and go to the pulpit and start lecturing people about the way things are going to be If youre going to do that, were going to rip your face off. Steve Bannon To @elonmusk On H-1B Visas: You Know Its Bald-Faced Lie Because You Cratered Right When We Got Up In Your Grill. pic.twitter.com/XNcCziDHv6 Bannons WarRoom (@Bannons_WarRoom) December 31, 2024 Musk caused a stir this week after he agreed with a post that called Americans too retarded to fill all tech industry roles in the country. The reason Im in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B, the X owner posted on his own platform over the weekend. Take a big step back and F--- YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon continued to rail against Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, the billionaires co-head for the Department of Gov. Efficiency Department, and supporters of H-1B, on Tuesday. Dude, Ive taken down bigger guys than that a decade ago, OK, Bannon said of the pair. We dont need white guys from South Africa lecturing us on how the way things should be. He then said that the nation needed to take a pause on immigration as a whole. Right now, I say we must demand a moratorium on all immigration, Bannon continued, all the students, everything. Donald Trump, meanwhile, has taken Musks side in the war over immigrant visas. Ive always liked the visas, I have always been in favor of the visas. Thats why we have them, the president-elect said. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) As 2024 draws to an end, many organizations are prepared and open for, if not, asking for year-end donations. Groups that have reached out for year-end gifts include Feed Israel, United Service Organizations, Red Cross, McLean County YWCA and the Illinois Republicans, to name a few. USO United Service Organizations has fallen short of its $100,000 which the website says goes to help soldiers who are deployed during the holiday season with critical resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As thousands of our service members spend the holidays far from their loved ones, the USO is there to provide these heroes with the critical resources they need and deserve, the website said. According to their website, until midnight Monday, December 30, a group of top USO donors has pledged to triple match donations up to $100,000. To learn more about the USO, click here. Red Cross The Illinois Red Cross is looking for people to help them make a difference by volunteering time in 2025. Were seeing both the frequency and intensity of disasters increase across the country, and the Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters as we did a decade ago to help people. This uptick in responses means we need more volunteers. The need to help has never been greater, said Catherine Rabenstine, Interim CEO of the Illinois Red Cross. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are several areas the Illinois Red Cross is looking for volunteers to fill, including disaster volunteers, biomedical and home fire response. To learn more about the Red Cross initiatives, click here. McLean County YWCA The McLean County YWCA is looking for people to donate to help them eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom & dignity for all, according to its year-end giving message. The YWCA website, details how monetary support helps all the areas of the organization. For example $25 sponsors one child on a summer camp field trip while a $2,000 donation can fund medical advocacy services for more than 20 sexual assault survivors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If less than three percent of people living in McLean County gave $25 each, we could make up more than $100,000 of the significant budget gap caused by the past few years, the website said. To learn more about the YWCA, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) A New Jersey offshore wind project is seeking a second delay, saying it still can't find someone to build crucial equipment for the turbines in the latest patch of turbulence striking the industry. Leading Light Wind had already received one pause on its project from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, which acknowledged the difficulty the project has had in finding a manufacturer for the blades that would spin to generate electricity. But that pause ended on Dec. 20. The day before, Leading Light asked the board for an additional stay, this time through May 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It did not specify an inability to find a blade manufacturer as the reason for needing a second delay, but its most recent request said, The offshore wind equipment market continues to experience significant price volatility and the company has not yet identified a solution to that volatility. The company did not respond to inquiries on Monday and Tuesday about whether a blade manufacturer is at the heart of the second request. "This additional time will allow us to continue to navigate ongoing market shifts and supply chain challenges, as we work to advance development of this important project for New Jersey, Wes Jacobs, the project director, said in a statement. The board could not estimate when it might consider the request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project, from Chicago-based Invenergy and New York-based energyRE, would be built 40 miles (65 kilometers) off Long Beach Island and would consist of up to 100 turbines, enough to power 1 million homes. Leading Light was one of two projects the state utilities board chose in January 2024. But just three weeks after that approval, one of three major turbine manufacturers, GE Vernova, said it would not build the kind of turbine Invenergy planned to use in the project, according to a public filing. A turbine made by manufacturer Vestas was deemed unsuitable for the project, and the remaining manufacturer, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, told Invenergy in June that it was increasing the cost of its turbine, Invenergy said. Invenergy said it has invested millions of dollars into the project and remains committed to it. The project must pay $105 million toward the cost of a facility to build monopiles, the tower-like foundations of wind turbines, in Paulsboro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opponents of offshore wind seized on the new request as more proof the industry is not economically feasible, particularly with Donald Trump, an offshore wind foe, soon to return to the White House. We can only draw one logical conclusion: the Trump administration threatens the lifeblood of the offshore wind industry, namely, large government subsidies and less regulation, the group Protect Our Coast NJ said in a statement. There are currently two other preliminarily approved offshore wind projects in New Jersey. Attentive Energy Two would be built 42 miles (67 kilometers) off Seaside Heights and would not be visible from the shoreline. It is a joint venture between Paris-based TotalEnergies and London-based Corio Generation and would power over 650,000 homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atlantic Shores, a joint partnership between Shell New Energies US LLC and EDF-RE Offshore Development LLC, would generate enough energy to power 700,000 homes. The federal government says the project would be about 8.7 miles (14 kilometers) from the shore at its closest point. The company has previously said the closest turbines will be at least 12.8 miles (20 kilometers) from shore. Some observers say it might not be easy to completely thwart the industry, particularly projects that are already operating or that have received the required government approvals. Paulina O'Connor, executive director of the New Jersey Offshore Wind Alliance, said the industry's future is promising. There is no shortage of challenges to advancing a new industry through market-wide shifts, but the fundamentals of offshore wind in New Jersey remain strong," she said. ___ Follow Wayne Parry on X at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC A social media post made by Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt has sparked confusion and frustration among parents who see a potential change in the state's graduation requirements as forcing their children into the military or careers if they do not attend college. Oklahoma has no such law or initiative, but commentary on comments made by the governor led to widespread speculation online. On Dec. 27, Stitt shared a post on social media titled "Classroom to Careers" that detailed four elements of education in Oklahoma that were addressed over 2024, including high school graduation requirements and credit for CareerTech programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the caption of the post, the governor said Oklahoma is "turning classrooms into career launchpads," and that "we want to prepare every student for success in the workforce." Over the weekend, the governor drew backlash as parents and educators read Stitt's comments as potentially requiring students to be accepted into college, a trade school or join the military in order to graduate. In Oklahoma, were turning classrooms into career launchpads. From expanding apprenticeships to higher education, we want to prepare every student for success in the workforce. pic.twitter.com/tuG7respJn Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) December 27, 2024 These fears appear to stem from Stitt's subsequent comments about the post to news outlets, where he listed the three pathways as strong options for Oklahoma students post-graduation. Oklahoma does not have a law forcing college, CareerTech, or military attendance on high school students to graduate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, Stitt's office clarified to Fox25 that the comments made were ideas, not an initiative or plan. The governor's office has not responded to The Oklahoman's request for comment on Stitt's intentions for the post or potential education initiatives. More: More Oklahoma college students are earning degrees. Here's a look behind the numbers What are parents saying? In response to Stitt's initial post on Friday, several families took to social media to express the importance of flexibility in their children's futures. Many note that children with learning or intellectual disabilities may not be suited to any of the three choices. Others feared that restricting graduates to college, military or technical programs would hinder artists or musicians seeking to join the workforce in their own way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "How about letting students and their families decide what is best for them," one Facebook commenter said. What are Oklahoma's new high school graduation requirements? Oklahoma legislators passed, and Stitt approved, several graduation requirement bills in 2024. None of them force students to exclusively follow one of three pathways, but many of the measures are aimed at expanding the CareerTech footprint within Oklahoma schools. House Bill 3278 requires a school district's board of education to establish pathway units and modify graduation curriculum requirements. This bill ultimately changed the graduation requirements by aligning a student's course with their Individualized Career and Academic Plan, allowing them to take more classes toward a certain career. In addition to graduation requirements, there was a specific focus on preparing students with financial literacy. The Oklahoma Legislature recently passed HB 2158, which supports this portion by adding a list of topics that can be taught in schools' financial literacy classes. Is this linked to Project 2025? It's unclear, but unlikely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many on social media were quick to claim that a graduation requirement forcing students to join the military reflected a sentiment shared in Project 2025, an initiative launched by conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation for the next conservative president to transform the federal government. In a section on improving military recruiting and retention, Project 2025 recommends requiring all students in schools that receive federal funding to take the military entrance exam - Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma graduation requirements post sparks ire: What to know A store clerk in Chesterfield County shot and killed an armed robber Saturday night, the sheriff announced on Monday. At about 8:45 p.m., deputies were called to an armed robbery at the Highway 9 Mini Mart & Tobacco store on Highway 9 in Pageland, according to a news release. There was a man who was shot to death at the store. SLED: Man in custody after standoff, allegedly shooting at SC officers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The store clerk told deputies that the man entered the store and pointed a gun to his head demanding money. The clerk pulled out his handgun and shot the robber multiple times. Deputies confirmed this happened after watching the stores surveillance video. Sheriff Cambo Streater said that South Carolina law states: A person who is not engaged in an unlawful activity and who is attacked in another place where he has a right to be, including, his place of business, has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his ground and meet force with force, including deadly force, if he reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent death or great bodily injury to himself or another person or to prevent the commission of a violent crime. Sheriff Streater strongly supports the rights of our citizens to protect themselves, the news release stated. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division processed the scene. WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) As 2024 comes to a close, we look back on the stories you cared about most in 2024. Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley People across the country closely watched the investigation into the disappearance and deaths of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley. The two disappeared in late March while they were en route to a custody exchange for Butlers two children in the Oklahoma panhandle. Five people were eventually arrested in connection to their disappearance and deaths. They were part of a quasi-religious group who called themselves Gods Misfits led by Tifany Adams, the paternal grandmother of Butlers children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motive for the crime appears to be related to the custody of the children. Preliminary hearings for the suspects took place this month, and it appears at least two of the suspects have reached plea agreements as they testified against their co-defendants. Wage Change Proposed for Disabled The U.S. Department of Labor is considering phasing out the Subminimum Act. Created in 1938, the act allowed businesses to pay disabled workers less than the minimum wage in an effort to help veterans who had been disabled in combat. The law applies to all those with disabilities. KSN spoke with a representative for the Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns and a local non-profit that provides employment opportunities for disabled residents in Kansas about the local impacts that could be created by eliminating the act. 2024 Eclipse Natural phenomena also captured peoples attention, and one of the big events of the year was the solar eclipse. Millions of people across the United States watched as the moon passed in front of the sun on April 8, including this teacher who reunited with his students 46 years later to watch the eclipse in upstate New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KSN also brought you the story of a blind Minnesota woman who traveled to Hutchinson for the eclipse. Many of you also shared your photos of the event with KSN. Kansas Roads A lot happened on Kansas highways and roads this year. There was a bridge replacement that caused a detour of over 100 miles or drivers getting heavy fines for speeding across the state. The bridge over Interstate 70 was shut down by the Kansas Department of Transportation because it kept getting struck by oversized loads. Eventually, the interstate was shut down so the bridge could be demolished. This created a temporary detour of over 78 miles that raised concerns about safety with local law enforcement. Watch: Evergy rescues cat atop power pole Big Boy Return Buzz began in June when it was announced the historic Union Pacific train would be returning to Kansas as part of its 2024 tour. The tour began in late August, but the Big Boy No. 4014 engine didnt arrive in Kansas until mid-October. Animals There were plenty of animal-related stories in 2024: A husband and wife striking the same deer seconds apart, driving different vehicles. A house cat and bobcat having a standoff in Cowley County, tarantulas on the Loose in Kansas, Kansas counties with a snake problem, or an extinct species to Kansas being reintroduced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were plenty of events at local zoos, the Sedgwick County Zoo, including a dentist being brought in to treat an elephant with a broken tusk, Five pregnant elephants at the zoo, and a new Gorilla. There was also the announcement from Tanganyika Wildlife Park of a change in operations and cost. Car Dealerships There were several stories from the Sedgwick County District Attorneys Office about actions taken against local car dealerships, including a dealership that was ordered to pay nearly $400,000 and stop selling cars in Kansas, another that was forced to pay out over $100,000, and the owner eventually ordered to jail. Weather It wouldnt be Kansas without extreme weather. We started off 2024 with a Blizzard in western Kansas that left motorists and workers stranded. In March, a storm system brought thunderstorms to the state and blizzard warnings in northwest Kansas. In mid-April, five tornadoes touched down in Kansas. Later that month, more tornadoes touched down in south-central Kansas, and the same system moved over southeast Kansas, bringing flooding. In late May, another storm system produced three tornadoes and hail, causing extensive damage. It prompted FEMA to designate 13 Kansas counties disaster areas. You can keep up with all of the latest news and weather information in 2025 by downloading the KSN News app or the Storm Track 3 Weather app, available on all Apple or Android devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. CLEVELAND (WJW) A severe windstorm swept through Northeast Ohio overnight, leaving tens of thousands of residents in the dark. Utility crews have been working tirelessly to restore power, with officials estimating that 95% of affected customers will have electricity restored by Tuesday afternoon. Fugitive fatally shot at N. Canton hotel in November was suspect in 1981 Mansfield homicide According to FirstEnergy, the storm left 84,000 customers without power51,000 with Ohio Edison and 33,000 with the Illuminating Company. The high winds toppled trees and downed power lines, causing widespread disruptions, particularly in cities like Parma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Parma, the storm caused significant damage. Resident George Durinka recounted the moment his neighborhood lost power. Around midnight last night, everything went black, said Durinka. Durinka described the relentless gusts that swept through the area, ultimately bringing down a massive tree limb on power lines at West 16th Street. Big ol tree limb hanging down on the power lines at West 16th Street and all around this corner, he added. This isnt the first time residents like Durinka have faced power outages this year. During a massive summer blackout, Durinkas home sustained damage, including a torn fence and damaged electrical outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That one tore out our fence and tore out our electrical outlets, Durinka shared. It was a little bit better this time but still something you have to live with. Despite the challenges, Durinka is hopeful that power will be restored more quickly this time. WATCH: Wayne Dawson begins first day of chemotherapy FirstEnergy officials are urging residents to report any issues online and to steer clear of downed power lines for safety reasons. For updates, customers are encouraged to check the companys outage map. Utility companies have also expressed their gratitude for the communitys patience during the restoration process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Embarking for their daily visit to look for birds at Portage Park in Sturgeon Bay, Candy and Rush Evans didn't expect to see anything out of the ordinary. "(We) didn't really have high hopes because of the time of year," Candy Evans said. "We thought, 'OK, well, we'll just walk around the corner to the rocky shoreline." Perched on a rock overlooking Lake Michigan was a small gray, white and black bird with a rounded belly and long legs. The Saturday sighting of the white wagtail by Candy and Rush Evans in Sturgeon Bay marks the first time the species has ever been seen in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology said. The Evanses rushed to their car and pulled out a field guide. Its pages showed they had spotted a white wagtail, a species common in Europe and Asia but rarely found in North America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Dec. 28 sighting of the white wagtail marked the first time the species has ever been seen in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology later confirmed. Mark Korducki, a longtime society member, said birds inherently know where to migrate. But this wagtail was wayward, likely ending up Wisconsin after being blown off course in a storm or getting confused when migrating from Siberia. The Evanses have spent the past three years going birding nearly every day, drawn to the retirement hobby by a shared love for the outdoors. That Saturday, they spent 4 hours observing the white wagtail in Sturgeon Bay. More: There's been an increase in snowy owl sightings in Wisconsin in December Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: 5 American Flamingos spotted in Port Washington in 2023 Candy Evans likened birding to a treasure hunt. "Our hope, every day when we go out is that we're going to find a rarity. Nine times out of 10 that's not the case. But when you come across something that is, in fact, rare, it's just a rush of adrenaline," Candy Evans said. Birders in Wisconsin flocked to Sturgeon Bay after Candy and Rush Evans spotted a rare white wagtail bird at Portage Park in Sturgeon Bay on Saturday. Immediately after identifying the white wagtail, Candy Evans said, she began contacting people in the local birding community and posting about the experience on social media. About 20 other birders filtered into the park that day to see the bird, she said, some who had driven from as far away as Milwaukee. The crowd respected the creature's space from a distance while taking in its beauty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This happened to be one of those times where the bird was very happy and comfortable where it was," Evans said. "That gave plenty of people time to come and see it. So that really made it extremely special for us, being able to share that." Cleo Krejci covers K-12 education and workforce development as a Report For America corps member based at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Contact her at CKrejci@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @_CleoKrejci. For more information about Report for America, visit jsonline.com/rfa. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Door County couple capture photos of a bird rarely seen in North America The Biden administration recently announced that it had achieved a dismal distinction in the last fiscal year: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement deported more than 271,000 people through the end of September, a 10-year high that edged out President Trumps peak of 267,000 in 2019. Trump, of course, already has designs to exceed Bidens high by several orders of magnitude: a military-led mass deportation operation that would, if fully executed, kick out millions of immigrantsdocumented and undocumented alikeper year. While raising alarm about Trumps plan is important, its also important not to unintentionally heighten the anxiety in immigrant communities, which are already as concerned as I have seen them in 18 years of practice as an immigration attorney. Since Election Day I have found it hard to reassure my clients when the media (both social and traditional) has terrified them into imagining a dystopian nightmare of camouflaged troops going house to house looking for undocumented immigrants. But the U.S. has never conducted that kind of untargeted enforcement on the general immigrant population, and assuredly does not have the human or logistical resources to start now. It is easy to forget now how many of the worst extralegal excesses of the prior Trump administration were delayed or denied altogether by federal court orders, as they no doubt will be again. His second-term deportation regime theoretically would include a novel combination of expanding expedited removal, bypassing removal proceedings with a spurious application of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, and other end runs that will require massive new spending authorizations from Congress and clearance from federal judges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even assuming a world in which legality is not particularly relevant, the infrastructure required to ramp up from the approximately 38,000 beds now available to ICE to what would be required to detain as many people as possibleincluding family unitsis far beyond anything that we have now or have ever seen in the past. If that is truly what Trump has in mind, we immigration attorneys will have time to prepare. The legal triage that I am suggesting will require many other kinds of attorneys as well: defense attorneys who specialize in post-conviction matters, seasoned appellate advocates, impact litigators, administrative law experts, Freedom of Information Act obsessives, and pro bono units in major firms staffed with attorneys licensed in federal district and appeals courts around the country. But the immigration bar will always be the first responders, and it is time to get realistic about how and where we will prioritize these cases. To that end, I have adopted the color-coded priority system that is used to triage mass casualty events. Please note that none of this is intended as legal advice; anyone in the following categories should consult with a qualified immigration attorney. BLACK: INJURIES INCONSISTENT WITH LIFE Any noncitizen with a serious criminal record Traditional triage models all include some category of people who are suffering injuries inconsistent with life beyond any realistic hope of survival, and first responders are trained in mass casualty events to move on to those who can still be helped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal equivalent of these most dire cases include those who have reentered the country after being deported for an aggravated felony, those convicted of multiple serious aggravated felonies (murder, drug trafficking, child sex abuse, etc.), and people with provable connections to gangs and designated terrorist organizations, among others. These tough cases still deserve review; everyone deserves representation, and as lawyers we just never know what the options are going to be until we have closely reviewed the entire available record and conducted a full intake with a prospective client. But we also have to recognize that there are some people, in lawful status or otherwise, who have never had a reasonable chance of remaining in the U.S. once the system has found them, and certainly far less so now in an era where the phrase mass deportation is the closest thing were going to get to an actual immigration policy. RED: CRITICAL AND IMMEDIATE Anyone who has already received an order of removal and is on a regular check-in schedule with ICE Deportation is not a unilateral decision. Noncitizens who do not have passports or other travel documents for their countries of origin must be cleared by their governments, and countries like Vietnam and Cambodia have been especially unenthusiastic about receiving deportees. Trump has promised to exercise his right under the Immigration and Nationality Act to imposeand, most recently, his new favorite threat to impose harsh tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court held in 2001 that noncitizens cant be detained in immigration custody for more than six months if it is not reasonably foreseeable that they could actually be deported to their home countries. ICEs solution has been to put people in this situation on orders of supervised release, a sort of long-term immigration parole program. These cases are the lowest-hanging possible fruit for enforcement, and they deserve the highest priority of review by qualified immigration attorneys. Anyone who has already received a final order of removal based on deportable criminal convictions Federal immigration law defines conviction much more broadly than the states do, and imposes almost unimaginably harsh consequences for offenses such as shoplifting and minor drug possession, which often dont even carry the possibility of jail time in state courts. These consequences can be triggered not only for the undocumented but for people in every possible immigration statusincluding lawful permanent residencyup to citizenship. Anyone convicted of a state or federal offense classified as an aggravated felony under federal immigration law When the concept of an aggravated felony was introduced to federal immigration law in 1988, it included only convictions relating to murder and drug and firearms trafficking. Since then it has been expanded to include at least 50 other offenses, many of which are far less serious than the word aggravated might suggest. Anyone who has missed an immigration court date or otherwise has an outstanding deportation order It is impossible to know how many people have remained in the U.S. after receiving a removal order, but a system in which missing a single court date results in a final order has imposed millions of them even during the 18 years that I have been practicing. Anyone who believes that they might be in this category should request a complete copy of their immigration records under the Freedom of Information Act. Anyone who has recently overstayed or violated the terms of a student visa This category could be at special risk given the strict reporting requirements imposed on schools that participate in these programs and the special enforcement resources which have been dedicated to finding them. YELLOW: DELAYED Temporary Protected Status TPS is by definition a temporary designation, but Trump is determined to end it entirely for all countriesstarting with Haiti, a country whose citizens in the U.S. have been protected by TPS since the devastating earthquake of 2010. The government has collapsed since then, and the vacuum has been filled by rival criminal gangs. Haiti is by any metric even more dangerous today than it was at the time of the original TPS grant, but we can assume that Trumps Department of Homeland Security will refuse to renew its TPS designation along with all other active designations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This crisis will begin on March 9, 2025, with the expiration of the largest and longest-running TPS program. Approximately 241,000 citizens of El Salvador have been renewing their status every 18 months since it first became available in early 2001, and a significant portion of them live in the greater Boston immigrant communities, which my law office serves. While many of them now have adult U.S. citizen children who are able to file for them, this path is only available if they either entered on a visa or traveled on a special grant of advance parole while in TPS status. (The first Trump administration already put up barriers to the latter and is expected to do so again.) Even assuming that all current TPS programs are endedfar from an inevitability given the legal roadblocks the prior Trump administration hit through its own ineptitude and open displays of racismthis will not result in immediate orders of deportation, and everyone now on TPS should be prepared to receive a notice to appear in immigration court. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals DACA has been on life support since July 21, 2021, the day that a federal judge issued a nationwide injunction against new applications. Trump has never been bullish on it himself, deferring to Jeff Sessions and Stephen Miller in deciding to rescind the program despite his reported reservations about the prudence of expelling the single most assimilated subset of the undocumented population. The Supreme Court somewhat reluctantly affirmed that Trump had unlawfully canceled the program but didnt rule on its merits, so DACA is expected to be back before the high court in the coming term. There is no reason to presume that it will survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has consistently taken the mainstream conservative position that protections for those brought to the U.S. as children should be up to Congress, but there is no reason to believe that finally passing the Dream Act will be a priority for the new Republican Congress either. As with TPS, DACA recession will not result in immediate orders of removal, but could ultimately initiate deportation proceedings for approximately 636,000 people who by definition each have strong ties to the U.S. and no notable criminal record. Anyone who is now in active removal proceedings Everyone who is not in the custody of ICE who is scheduled to appear before a federal immigration judge is entitled to remain in the U.S. until their cases have completed. They are also entitled to a full review by the Board of Immigration Appeals, a body of only 28 immigration judges responsible for every appeal from every immigration court decision in the country. The Trump administration implemented an unpopular quota system in 2018 that pressured immigration judges to reach decisions faster, and a simultaneous assault on their union made it much more effective. Although the Biden administration has recently taken steps to protect the union, we should fully expect this interference to resume. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fewer than 1 million of the 3.6 million people now in active removal proceedings are represented by counsel, and there is one simple way that we can all help them: Fund their lawyers. Immigration lawyers are a finite resource. The American Immigration Lawyers Association has approximately 16,000 active members, with maybe two-thirds of those taking deportation defense cases. Immigration law is one of the most consistently complex and confusing parts of the entire legal system, and there is no right to appointed counsel in immigration court becauseand I really cant stress this enoughno one facing deportation proceedings is being charged with a crime. Despite a massive push by both the Trump and Biden administrations to expand its deportation pipelines, the immigration court backlog of more than 3.6 million cases is now approaching the size of the entire population of Los Angeleswith just around 500 immigration judges nationwide to handle them. Based on the latest available data, the average removal proceeding in immigration court took well over two years, with at least as much time on appeal for those seeking review of their decisions by the Board of Immigration Appeals. National advocacy groups have done their part, but the cold realpolitik of the incoming Republican-controlled government means that the only advocacy that will really matter will be in courtrooms. Anyone who is able to help with a donation should give to a local organization from this official DOJ list of pro bono legal groups. If you live in a major metro area in a blue state that already has the capacity to at least provide legal triage to its noncitizen population, consider giving further afield. Your donation to one of the very few organizations serving remote places like Oakdale, Louisiana (home of the largest immigration detention center in the country), could truly make a difference. GREEN: WALKING WOUNDED Lawful permanent residents and other people in lawful status with criminal convictions that have left them inadmissible for reentry Some criminal convictions render lawful permanent residents inadmissible rather than deportable. As a matter of practice, this means that ICE could only initiate removal proceedings once the noncitizen tried to reenter the U.S. through a port of entry. Unlike the deportation grounds mentioned above, this is not a category of offenders that ICE will be actively looking for. Pending visa petitions, residency applications, and waivers with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS is truly the immigration deep state, and it is simply impossible to change its personnel, policies, and culture anytime soon. Trump did his best in four years with a series of harsh policy changes, and we fully expect more of the same now. Regular marriage and family visa petitions will be unaffected for the most part. Pending applications for asylum Trump already made major advances in dismantling the U.S. asylum system in his prior term, and much more is coming. Anyone who has already filed for protection has an absolute right to have their case heard, but the attorney generalwho is responsible for the entire immigration court system within the Department of Justicehas the sole authority to make drastic changes in how the law is applied. Trump effectively removed protections for survivors of domestic violence and those being persecuted for family ties, so at a minimum anyone seeking asylum on these grounds has reason to be concerned. NOT TRIAGE PRIORITIES Naturalized U.S. citizens Stripping naturalized citizens of their status is a long and intentionally difficult process in a federal district courtnot an administrative immigration courtwith an appropriately high burden for the government to meet. Although the incoming administration is expected to expand the size of the DOJs denaturalization force, Trumps previous attempts in this direction hardly came out to 25 per year, and there is no reason to believe that they would get much further this time. Birthright citizenship Trump has promised an executive order to end birthright citizenship, which in practice amounts to ordering the Social Security Administration to stop generating Social Security numbers and the Department of State to stop issuing passports to children whose parents cant prove their status at the time of the childs birth. This order would stand in direct contradiction with the Fourteenth Amendments promise that all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States. The planned order would be prospective, applying only to babies born on or after the day of the announcement, and will undoubtedly be subject to an immediate nationwide injunction from a federal courtand ultimately review by the Supreme Courtgiven the extreme harms of creating a new generation of stateless babies. Authorities arrested a suspect for allegedly making threats against specific students at a Cape Cod high school on December 25. The suspect, who police are not naming, is charged with a violation of MGL 269/14/B Bomb/hijack threat causing serious public alarm. According to the Dennis Police Department, they received reports from several parents regarding threatening social media posts made towards certain students at Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The threats allegedly reference acts of gun violence. Officers worked with school officials and identified the person making the social media posts. The suspect was arrested and arraigned in the Orleans District Court on December 27. No further information was immediately available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW AULANDER, N.C. (WNCT) Bertie County deputies arrested one person after pulling a vehicle over on Brickmill Road near Highway 11 in Aulander. A search of the vehicle found heroin, crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Courtney Bonney, 35, of Ahoskie, was arrested and charged with felony possession of heroin, felony possession of crack cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bonney was jailed in the Bertie/Martin Regional Jail under $5,000 secured bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Police in Pennsylvania are searching for what they are calling the coffee break bandits. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] On Dec. 21, police were called to a robbery at Motel 6 in Middlesex Township, according to Middlesex Township Police Department. TRENDING STORIES: Two masked suspects entered the lobby area where one of the suspects demanded money from the desk clerk while the other suspect helped himself to some free coffee, video shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects left in a car being driven by a third person. Police are working to identify the suspects. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] ZURICH, Switzerland (AP) A flight attendant aboard a Swiss aircraft that made an emergency landing in Austria due to smoke in the cabin has died, the airline said Tuesday. The flight from Bucharest to Zurich on Dec. 23 was diverted to Graz after engine problems and smoke filled the cockpit and the cabin, Swiss International Air Lines said in a statement. It said the attendant died Monday in intensive care in the hospital in Graz. The attendant was one of two crew members who were hospitalized. All 74 passengers aboard the Airbus A220-300 were evacuated after flight LX1885 landed safely, Swiss said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are devastated at our dear colleagues death, Swiss Chief Executive Officer Jens Fehlinger said in the statement. His loss has left us all in the deepest shock and grief. Our thoughts are with his family, whose pain we cannot imagine. I offer them my heartfelt condolences on behalf of all of us at Swiss." Swiss is a subsidiary of German airline Lufthansa. The public prosecutor's office in Graz has ordered a forensic examination of the attendant's body, Austria's APA news agency reported. It has also appointed an aviation expert and initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident. Following the incident, Swiss said it was also conducting an internal examination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to thoroughly clarify the causes of the smoke and the effects on passengers and crew, the airline wrote on Thursday. The focus is on the mechanical parts of the aircraft, such as the engine, but also on the use of protective equipment for the cabin crew, known as Protective Breathing Equipment. The airline said initial findings "point to a technical problem in one of the engines, adding that it was not ruling out anything and are working closely with the relevant authorities, the engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney and the aircraft manufacturer Airbus. A spokeswoman for SWISS, a subsidiary of Germany's Lufthansa airline, said on Tuesday that an abrupt engine failure and smoke in the cabin and cockpit led to an emergency landing last week and resulted in the death of a flight attendant. The investigations into the incident on December 23 are focusing on engine damage and the effectiveness of the crew's protective equipment, she said. Industry publication aeroTELEGRAPH reported that the deceased crew member had been wearing a protective hood designed to provide oxygen to flight crew in a smoke-filled cabin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Swiss news agency Keystone-SDA has cited internal communications from SWISS, which indicate that initial analyses suggest a "previously unknown fault pattern" in the engine. The engine is being sent to the United States for examination by the manufacturer Pratt & Whitney and by authorities, the spokeswoman told dpa. There have been previous engine issues with the Airbus A220 aircraft. In 2019, Swiss temporarily grounded its fleet of the jets to inspect the Pratt & Whitney engines. However, the planes remained in service. "Our analyses currently show no indications questioning the safety of the aircraft type," a spokeswoman stated at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Airbus A220-300 was en route from Bucharest to Zurich on December 23 when it was forced to make an emergency landing in Austria's Graz. The occupants and the crew had to evacuate the aircraft via emergency slides after the smooth landing on the runway. Twelve of the 74 passengers and two crew members were taken to a hospital. Almost all have since been discharged, except for the deceased employee who was being treated in an intensive care unit. By Elisa Anzolin, Emilio Parodi and Silvia Ognibene MILAN (Reuters) -LVMH-owned Dior's production arm in Italy, Manufactures Dior, relied on formal inspections to assess working and safety standards inside its supply chain last year. In some cases, such certifications missed glaring problems, a Reuters review of unpublished court documents has found. AZ Operations, a sub-contractor of Manufactures Dior tasked with the production of leather items and based near Italy's fashion capital Milan, was accused by Italian prosecutors in June of being a front for an operation that exploited workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, AZ Operations passed two environmental and social inspections in 2023, in January and July, according to unpublished audit documents reviewed by Reuters. Widespread Milan investigations have uncovered malpractice inside the Italian luxury goods supply chain of Dior, Giorgio Armani and Alviero Martini this year, Reuters has previously reported. The audit papers, along with court documents, Reuters interviews with more than two dozen luxury sector workers, auditors, supply chain managers, suppliers, lawyers, industry experts, executives and trade union representatives reveal the pervasiveness of ineffective checks of social and environmental standards inside Italy's sprawling luxury supply chain. In the case of AZ Operations, a three-page assessment on letterhead from compliance management company Fair Factories Clearinghouse (FFC), carried out by monitor Adamo Adriano on Jan. 18, 2023, stated that AZ Operations did not have sub-contractors. The audit listed no irregularities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July 2023, a further audit by Davide Albertario Milano srl, a large direct supplier of Manufactures Dior that worked with AZ Operations, also found "no non-conformities" and certified the work was carried out to a high standard and in accordance with contractual terms. Despite passing the audits, a police investigation into its 2023 activities found AZ Operations was "de facto non-existent", according to Milan court documents. Furthermore, police inspections in April 2024 alleged the company was a front for a separate business, New Leather Italy, that exploited undocumented workers in sweatshop-like conditions, the same documents showed. That discovery was one of the factors that prompted Milan's prosecutors to put Manufactures Dior under court administration in June. Dior and LVMH did not respond to multiple requests for comment about Reuters' findings, including the audits, and on the process to inspect external manufacturers in Italy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a July statement following revelations from the Milan prosecutors' inquiries, Dior said it firmly condemned illegal practices discovered at two of its contractors, saying such unworthy acts contradicted "its values and the code of conduct signed by these suppliers." "Aware of the gravity of the violations committed by these suppliers and the improvements to be made to its checks and procedures, the house of Dior is collaborating with the designated Italian administrator and the Italian authorities," the French brand also said at the time. Dior added in the statement that its teams were working intensely to reinforce the existing procedures: "Despite regular audits, these two suppliers had evidently succeeded in hiding these practices." After this article was published, FFC-owner Worldly responded to Reuters queries saying it had never offered facility auditing services to Worldly or FFC users, adding it asks that customers enlist external verifiers to ensure impartial, transparent audits. "Regarding the letterhead in the court documents, this is a template available to customers within the FFC platform," Worldly added in its statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adamo Adriano did not respond to Reuters attempts to reach them. Davide Albertario did not respond to queries by Reuters on inspections at AZ Operations. New Leather Italy did not reply to a Reuters request for comment. "COST-REDUCTION" Global luxury groups including LVMH usually outsource most of their production to a myriad of external contractors, industry experts say. Many are based in Italy, famed for its artisanal skills and accounting for between 50% and 55% of the global production of luxury clothing and leather goods, consultancy Bain calculates. "No matter how many controls we do, there is always something we miss," Renzo Rosso, founder of Italian fashion group OTB, which makes Diesel clothing, told a business event in September, in reference to the complexity of overseeing Italy's supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the risks, insiders and experts told Reuters relying on suppliers is a deliberate strategy to keep costs down and manage demand. "The fashion business model is driven by cost-reduction tactics, leading fashion brands to switch suppliers," said Hakan Karaosman, Associate Professor at Cardiff University, whose research focuses on supply chain sustainability. Even though Dior did not directly abuse workers, the mechanism of labour exploitation "was culpably fuelled by Manufactures Dior srl which... did not carry out effective inspections or audits over the years to ascertain the actual working conditions and environment," Milan prosecutors said in the June court documents. Currently, there is no firm legal requirement in Italy for luxury groups to audit their suppliers. But poor oversight can clash with sustainability claims made to investors and consumers over craftsmanship and corporate and social responsibility standards, leading to reputational risks and in some cases civil liability if workers' exploitation is found within the supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LVMH, for example, said in its 2023 Social and Environmental Responsibility Report it "endeavors to ensure its suppliers and their service providers uphold human rights and to support them with applying the best possible employment, health and safety conditions." The investigations into Italy's luxury supply chain have prompted some LVMH shareholders to ask the $330-billion behemoth, owned by French billionaire Bernard Arnault, to better monitor how its contractors treat workers. LVMH told a group of investors in November it was auditing all of its direct suppliers and immediate contractors. In a subsequent statement to Reuters in November, LVMH said it had conducted more than 2,600 on-site audits globally this year. Italy's antitrust authority said in July it was investigating whether Dior and Armani have misled consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, Armani expressed confidence in a "positive result following the (antitrust) investigation", saying in a statement that its companies were fully committed to cooperating with the authorities and that it believed the allegations had no merit. SKIN-DEEP OVERSIGHT Brands dictate the depth of the checks and the auditors' scope of action and inspections are often limited to direct suppliers and not to sub-contractors, where the biggest problems usually lie, four auditors and luxury goods supply chain managers Reuters spoke to said. Audits tend to be planned in advance, allowing suppliers to paint a better picture by, for instance, clearing premises of workers without proper contracts, these people said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On May 9, 2023, for example, external auditor Adamo Adriano sent Pelletterie Elisabetta Yang, another supplier of Manufactures Dior based near Milan, a written notice flagging that he would hold an inspection on 26 May, 2023, the audit documents reviewed by Reuters show. In the notice, Adriano asked to analyse employment contracts, organisational charts, pay slips and a dozen more documents. The check-up did take place, but it was "more formal than substantial," investigators wrote of the audit. The assessment listed no irregularities. In March 2024, police entered Elisabetta Yang's workshop, which housed also a refectory and several bedrooms. They found 23 workers, five of which were irregular. The workers lived and worked "in hygiene and health conditions that are below the minimum required," the court documents read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adriano did not reply to Reuters requests to comment with regards to the audit of Elisabetta Yang. Reuters was not able to contact Elisabetta Yang at the official email addresses cited by the local chamber of commerce. As private actors, auditors cannot freely access factories or workshops outside agreed hours and may not collect documents that are not spontaneously submitted by suppliers, two Italy-based luxury supply chain auditors told Reuters. The time allocated for on-site inspections is often too short to examine documents and interview employees, these people said. Five Tuscany-based luxury chain workers employed at separate workshops serving major brands confirmed to Reuters workshop owners knew in advance of the audits and would clear their premises and prep staff on what answers to give monitoring teams on the day of an inspection. All declined to be named for fear of losing their job. "We used to say we only worked four hours a day, as per our (formal) part-time contract," said Pakistani-born Abbas, who works in the leathermaking hub of Prato. "But how could they think we were making 1,300 bags a day with 50 workers employed only four hours a day?", Abbas, who said he worked 14 hours a day, six days a week, added. On the day of the audit, employees with part-time contracts were asked to leave as soon as they finished their formal shift, but had to come back and continue work after the auditors left, he added. Another worker, also from Pakistan and employed at a separate leather workshop in the Florence area, said factory owners warned workers when the inspection would take place and asked them to lie about their working hours. Fabio Roia, President of the Court of Milan, told Reuters that companies don't invest enough in their control systems and don't normally question the extremely cheap prices contractors offer to provide goods or services. Small fashion brand Alviero Martini, famed for leather bags decorated with geographical map patterns, was also targeted by the Italian inquiries for allegedly sub-contracting work to Chinese-owned firms in Italy that mistreated workers. The Alviero Martini group was "careful in selecting direct suppliers ... but the use of sub-suppliers was not actually checked properly," Ilaria Ramoni, who served as court administrator overseeing its operations until October, said in an interview. The group, which is no longer under court administration, did not respond to a request for comment. It stated in September it was unaware of the illegal behaviour occurring within its supply chain. Dior and Armani are still under special judicial oversight as part of the Milan's investigation into labour exploitation. (Reporting by Elisa Anzolin and Emilio Parodi in Milan, Silvia Ognibene in Florence, additional reporting by Mimosa Spencer in Paris and Isabel Demetz in Gdansk; Editing by Lisa Jucca) Sydney has rung in the New Year with its world-famous fireworks show above the harbour, watched by millions at home and abroad. The Australian city's fireworks display began at midnight (1300 GMT) against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and the iconic Opera House. This year's show used around 9 tons of pyrotechnics to light up the sky. Fireworks were ignited at 264 different points, significantly more than in previous years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first time, fireworks were also launched to the west of the Harbour Bridge. Using innovative technology, patterns and shapes such as animals and the word "Sydney" cascaded down from the Harbour Bridge. More than a million people were thought be attending the event, with many having already set up blankets and picnic chairs in nearby parks in the morning. Fireworks also exploded over other major Australian cities, including Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide at midnight. As the first major international centre to welcome in the New Year, the landmarks of New Zealand's largest city Auckland lit up at midnight (1100 GMT Tuesday), two hours before Sydney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven songs made up a "midnight moment" soundtrack, synchronized with the lights, lasers and fireworks. The five-minute and 30-second-long Sky Tower fireworks and laser display started with a 10-second countdown projected onto the base of the tower. Following this, 500 kilograms of pyrotechnics were launched from the tower, the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. On the Auckland Harbour Bridge, 90,000 colour-changing lights went dark before a pulsing effect counted down to the New Year from 10-seconds to midnight. The country's capital Wellington also put on fireworks and music at an inner city lagoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, Kiritimati, a Pacific Ocean atoll home to about 5,000 people, welcomed the New Year, the first inhabited place to do so each year. Attention will now shift to Asia, where many cities also have spectacular fireworks displays planned to ring in the New Year. In Taiwan, a six-minute fireworks show will be performed at the country's landmark Taipei 101 building, which is 509 metres tall. For the first time, the display will also include a light show, according to the organizers. In Bangkok, one of the best ways to take in the show is from a party boat on the Chao Phraya River. Thailand, which follows the Buddhist calendar, will start the year 2568. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Singapore, crowds of onlookers are expected to gather to watch the fireworks at Marina Bay, with a view of the skyline. In Kuala Lumpur, the 452-metre-high Petronas Towers, once the tallest building in the world, will be the centre of an impressive light show. Many hours later, American Samoa will be the last to ring in 2025. The Islamist-dominated transitional government in Syria has appointed a woman as the governor of the southern province of Suwaida, the Syrian News Agency (SANA) reported on Tuesday. Muhsina al-Mahithawi, a member of Syria's Druze minority, has been selected to lead her home province. She previously studied at the University of Damascus and headed a large bank in Suwaida province. Aiham al-Schufi, an activist in the region, described al-Mahithawi as one of the leading figures in the protests against the regime of former ruler Bashar al-Assad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was "one of the first women in the peaceful movement in the province of Suwaida against the government," al-Schufi told dpa, and faced harassment from authorities. Al-Mahithawi is the third woman to receive a formal position under the transitional government, after al-Assad was toppled earlier this month. On Monday, Syrias new administration named Maysaa Sabrine as the first female caretaker governor of the Central Bank of Syria. Earlier this month, Aisha al-Dibs was appointed as the head of the Women's Affairs Office in Syria's interim government. The last day of 2024 in Tampa Bay began dreary, but by Tuesday night as the region rings in the new year, much of the drab weather will have likely faded. The mild day bookmarks the end of a year of weather extremes in Tampa Bay. Two major hurricanes swiped the region, leading to the worst hurricane season the area has seen in a century. Storm surge and record rainfall deluged homes and businesses. Months later, Tampa Bay is still picking up the pieces. But as this year is folded up and shoved into the history books, residents in Tampa Bay will have little reason to think of weather Tuesday night as residents welcome a fresh year. New Years Eve forecast A dense fog advisory was in place over the region Tuesday morning, warning of reduced visibility. However, as the day warmed, the fog dispersed, leaving behind a slightly cloudy and warm day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forecasters expect much of Tuesdays temperatures will hover above average in the upper 70s. By nightfall, temperatures will fall into the upper 50s and low 60s. Rodney Wynn, a meteorologist for the National Weather Services Tampa Bay Office, said there could be a stray shower or two on Tuesday, but by the time fireworks begin, rain chances are nearly nonexistent. Some cloudiness could remain. Wynn called it a perfect night. What to expect New Years Day After midnight, patchy fog could return in the early morning hours of New Years Day, according to the weather service. By sunrise, any remnants of foggy weather should lift as moisture in the air lowers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A small cold front Wednesday will bring temperatures near average, with a high around 70. The day will likely be sunny, with little chance of rain. The rest of the first work week of the year will be in the low 70s, but by Saturday temperatures will plunge about 10 degrees. The high will be around 60 with a low around 40. Spectrum Bay News 9 said another chillier cold front could be in store next week. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) This year, Target 8 investigators dug deep into cases in West Michigan, including the murder of a young woman whose body was left on a Grand Rapids highway and a pair of grandparents who were sentenced to time behind bars for the accidental shooting death of their grandson. Sentencing of grandparents for boys shooting death in Newaygo County: The killing of Ruby Garcia: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contracting schemes of Matthew Mencarelli: Other top Target 8 stories: This is the third in a four-part series looking back at trending stories of 2024. Make sure to check out Stories from the Skies: Storm Team 8 Reflects on 2024, Spirit of The Seven and To The Point: Year in review. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Two teen brothers who went missing during a duck hunting trip in rural Northern California are now feared dead. The Butte County Sheriffs Office recently confirmed that the previous search and rescue efforts have now transitioned to search and recovery, two weeks after 17-year-old Wesley Cornett and 19-year-old Andruw Cornett went missing. Sheriffs office spokesperson, Megan McCann, told SFGATE the efforts shifted to a continuous limited search for Andruw and Wesley Cornett on December 23, 2024. This involves surface search methods, including aircraft, drones, boats, on-shore vehicles and K9s, the outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives from the Butte County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Butte County Sheriff's Office Wesley Cornett, Andruw Cornett Wesley Cornett, Andruw Cornett Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Three days after the brothers were last seen while duck hunting, a local diver part of the search and recovery team, found Andruws pants. Close to a week later, Wesleys wallet was found, followed by his jacket with his cell phone inside, according to SFGATE. The Thermalito Afterbay is described as a difficult area to search due to hypothermia threat limiting dive time, depths from 3 to 30 feet and vegetation up to 10 feet tall that poses a risk of entanglement to divers, the outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the news that the search efforts for her sons had shifted, the boys mother, April Clark, addressed the heartbreaking news via a GoFundMe. The Sheriff is saying this is now a search and recovery, so I will have to also plan to lay my two boys to rest, her message read in part. Related: Body Recovered Amid Search for Ill. Teen Who Disappeared While on Way to Work Party This is hard for me to write as I'm beyond broken into so many pieces. If you can please find it in your heart to donate and help our family find and lay my handsome two young boys to rest, any amount of support will forever be blessed for our family, Clark wrote. Currently, the GoFundMe has raised close to $41,000 of a $45,000 goal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Butte County Sheriffs Office confirmed in a release on Monday, Dec. 16, that authorities initially responded to a missing persons alert on Dec. 14. The missing persons were later identified by local officials as Wesley and Andruw Cornett. Related: California Brothers Ages 17 and 19 Missing amid Duck Hunting Trip, Say Police: 'Continue to Diligently Search' On Saturday, December 14th, BCSO deputies, detectives, the BCSO Aviation and Marine Unit and Butte County Sheriffs Search and Rescue responded out to the Afterbay after reports that one of two duck hunters had overturned on a kayak, and the other one swam into the water to try and help," the release said. "Both are currently missing. We continue to diligently search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the release from the Butte County Sheriffs Office on Dec. 23, Andruw called 911 at 8:33 a.m. to report that Wesleys kayak overturned and he was swimming away from it. Andruw then told the 911 dispatcher he was going to save his brother by going in the water. Authorities said that Andruw revealed that neither he nor his brother were wearing life jackets. At 8:47 a.m., the first deputy arrived at the scene, followed by Cal FIRE Water Rescue at 8:55 a.m. Seven minutes later, at 9:02 a.m., a deputy identified the kayak and possibly a victim before first responders began to search the area via rescue boats, the release said. Read the original article on People (FOX40.COM) A 14-year-old led Folsom officers on a wild chase while riding an electric bicycle after suspected acts of vandalism and shouting slurs on Sunday night, according to the Folsom Police Department. Officers responded to an area of the city around 6 p.m. to follow up with harassment complaints connected to an ongoing felony vandalism and hate crime investigation. California Highway Patrol increases enforcement for New Years holiday Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers found the suspect and attempted to stop them with their police lights on, the teen rode away doing a wheelie and gesturing at the officer. With law enforcement in pursuit, the teen is said to have driven into oncoming traffic with the e-bike lights off and traveling at speeds of around 60 mph. Seeing the danger in the chase, officers disengaged several times from their pursuit and continued surveillance of the teen until they were able to successfully stop them. The teen has been booked into the Sacramento County Juvenile Hall where they are facing charges of evading police and vandalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A boy remains in critical condition after a shooting in Mexico killed 2 U.S. citizens and another person. Police say the victims were an American family on vacation. Three adult men, two of whom were U.S. citizens, were killed Friday in the west-central Mexican state of Durango, according the Durango Attorney General's Office. Authorities are investigating if robbery was a motive, ABC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement American brothers Vicente Pena Rodriguez, 38, and Antonio "Tony" Fernandez Rodriguez, 44, were killed, along with a relative, Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre, who was a local Mexican resident. The 14-year-old son of Vicente Rodriguez, who lived in Chicago, is reported to be in a coma and in critical condition. The victims were found Friday night in Durango next to their SUV. They had gunshot wounds to the head. The U.S. government in a reissued September advisory urged American citizens to "exercise increased caution" while traveling to Durango due to a rise in crime. The family was celebrating the teen's birthday and visiting with relatives while traveling in a black GMC Yukon with its Illinois license plate when the incident took place, officials added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conflicts between rival drug cartels and Mexican government forces have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, opening the door to a violent social breakdown in parts of Mexico over the years in an ongoing national security struggle which has its ties to mass migration. The SUV was located on the side of the Francisco Zarco highway in an area that has seen a reported spike in crime. One of the family's grandmothers in Chicago said she got a frantic call from her daughter. "She said 'Mom, they killed my boy. They killed Junior. They killed my brother-in-law. I don't know what to do,'" Maria Elena Hernandez told ABC7 in Illinois via translator. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of State highlighted that widespread violent crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery are all common in Mexico and urged travelers to be cautious in specific regions, according to a travel advisory. (Bloomberg) -- Singapore Post Ltd. named a group chief financial officer and said the search for a chief executive continues after it fired a number of senior executives over allegations of misconduct. Most Read from Bloomberg Isaac Mah, currently the CFO of the companys Australia business, Freight Management Holdings Pty, will return home to take up the group CFO post, the Temasek Holdings Pte-backed firm said in a filing on Sunday. It also appointed Gan Heng, who currently heads the South District International Business Unit, as acting CEO of IBU. The appointments follow the dismissal of three senior executives on disciplinary grounds, following a whistleblowers report on lapses at its international e-commerce logistics parcel business. Singapore Posts investigations into the report allegedly found several employees in the IBU made manual entries of some delivery status codes with the intent of avoiding contractual penalties with one of the firms largest customers. Shares of the firm, which slid the most intraday since March 2020 after the dismissals last week, were trading unchanged as of 9:30 a.m. in Singapore on Monday. Singapore Post said the sale of its Australia business, announced earlier this month, remains on track. The company also paid a settlement to the unidentified customer, besides renewing its contract with the customer in August. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A strong cold front moves into New Mexico tonight, bringing cooler air heading into the New Year. Warmer weather will again return later this week. Strong winds brought a high fire danger in eastern New Mexico Monday afternoon. Thankfully, those winds have been lighter than forecast and are dying down tonight. Many areas in eastern New Mexico measured wind gusts over 40 mph, with a few places clocking gusts up to nearly 60 mph early this morning. The westerly wind also brought in much warmer weather today, with highs climbing into the 60s in Albuquerque and close to 80 in Carlsbad. Highs were in the 60s all the way up to Clayton today, with 70s as far north as Socorro. While the winds are quickly dying down Monday evening, a cold front is moving into northeast New Mexico. This front will bring much colder air into the state by Tuesday morning, but especially in eastern New Mexico where highs temperatures Tuesday will be over 20 colder than today in some places. Winds may still be gusty Tuesday afternoon across northern New Mexico. Another cold front will move into the state from the northwest, bringing in more slightly cooler temperatures for New Years Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A warming trend begins Thursday afternoon and will continue into the weekend. Once again, high temperatures will be well-above average for early January across much of the state. Its likely well see another cool-down across the state a week from today that could even bring some light snow to the northern mountains. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A Louisiana man has been arrested after allegedly crossing state lines to transport a teen from Tennessee to his home for sexual relations, according to police. Alexander Materne, 28, of St. Rose was charged with one count of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile and one count of Aggravated Kidnapping of a Child in Tangipahoa Parish after allegedly traveling to pick up a 14-year-old. Related: Missing La. Teens Body Found Dismembered in River, Man She Met Online Charged with Murder Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Dec. 30, Sgt. Jenni Barrette with the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office told PEOPLE there was no further information for an active investigation. The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office contacted the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office on Christmas Day regarding an active investigation involving Materne and the missing girl, per a press release shared on Dec. 26. According to the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office, the teen met Materne while playing an online game, and the two made arrangements so he could pick her up and stay with him. On December 23, 2024, Materne picked up the female from her residence in TN and brought her to his residence in St. Rose, LA, where they allegedly engaged in sexual acts. The female then allegedly disclosed her age to Materne, the press release said. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office The tent Alexander Materne allegedly bought 14-year-old female from Tennessee, before dropping her off in a wooded area in Tangipahoa Parish The tent Alexander Materne allegedly bought 14-year-old female from Tennessee, before dropping her off in a wooded area in Tangipahoa Parish Eventually, the two left Maternes home and he brought the teen to a wooded area in Tangipahoa Parish where he left her in a tent with food and water. Materne then went to Jennings, LA, to celebrate Christmas with his family, the sheriffs office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the teens family who were able to track her to Materne. Related: Ark. Teen, 16, Found Safe After She Was Allegedly Abducted by 30-Year-Old Man She Met Online: Police They were the key to all of this, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker said of the 14-year-olds mother and father, the Associated Press reported Dec. 28. Im telling you if they want a job, Ill hire both of these parents as investigators. After he was found at a family member's residence in Jennings, the 28-year-old agreed to show detectives where he dropped off the female in Tangipahoa Parish. Related: La. Teen Allegedly Planned to Kidnap and Murder Gay Men he Met on Dating App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the teens name and exact residential location was not disclosed, Sticker said she lived about 160 miles west of Maternes home in St. Rose. You cant make this stuff up. Its a Christmas miracle that she was found safe. This thing couldve ended badly, Sticker added. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Per the press release, the girl was said to be in good health when authorities found her, and she was transported to a hospital to be evaluated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Materne is also facing Human Trafficking (felony) and Carnal Knowledge (felony) charges from the St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office. Once he is able to be transported, Materne will be booked into the St. Charles Parish Nelson Coleman Correctional Center, the press release said. Read the original article on People Standardized test scores for students using Tennessee's school vouchers have improved but continue to lag behind their peers statewide, according to data released by the state last week. The state offers taxpayer-funded vouchers to help low-income families opt out of public schools and pay for private and parochial schools in Davidson, Hamilton and Shelby counties. The program was instituted in the 2022-23 school year for Davidson and Shelby counties after a drawn-out legal battle. Hamilton County was later added to the program. Its first batch of vouchers went out in 2023-24. Overall, students using the vouchers trailed their peers statewide on English language arts and math scores on the state's standardized Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program tests this spring. However, the students also made gains in both categories. Notably, students using vouchers in Shelby County matched their peers in math scores and surpassed them in English language arts scores this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parent survey data was also included in the release and showed a 99% satisfaction rate in the 2023-24 school year with the state voucher program, compared to 91% in the previous school year. Additionally, the report showed participation in the program grew by leaps and bounds in 2023-24, with 2,088 students enrolled. That's a 362% increase from the 452 students enrolled the previous year. "This report shows families are satisfied with the educational opportunities afforded by the program, and we are encouraged by the academic performance of the students participating," Tennessee Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds said in the release. Tennessee to push voucher expansion again in 2025 After a failed push to expand the vouchers, which are offered through the Education Savings Account Program, to the entire state in 2024, Gov. Bill Lee and Republican lawmakers are trying again for an expansion in 2025. Lee dubbed the effort the Education Freedom Act. "A quality education has the power to change the trajectory of a childs life, and Im pleased with the positive gains students are making through enrollment in Tennessees Education Savings Account Program," Lee said in a news release from the Tennessee Department of Education. "Its time to build upon this foundation of progress and deliver school choice for all Tennessee parents through the Education Freedom Act." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a look at how the latest data breaks down for the state and all three counties where vouchers are available. How ESA students performed vs. Tennessee peers Across Tennessee, ESA students notched a gain of more than six percentage points in math scores and more than four percentage points in English language arts scores. The gaps between scores in both categories for ESA students and their peers also narrowed. However, ESA students continued to perform markedly behind statewide scores, which also saw modest gains in each category. Here's how many students scored proficient in math and English language arts statewide in each group in 2024: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Statewide math: 36.7% ESA students math: 17.6% Statewide English language arts: 39% ESA English language arts: 27.2% The numbers, which were released Dec. 23, differ slightly from a previous Tennessean story based on preliminary data. That is likely due to the exclusion of data for schools with 10 or fewer student test scores for privacy purposes, along with an appeal and reconciliation process that may have been completed after the data was obtained by The Tennessean this summer. How ESA students performed in Davidson County Students in the ESA program in Davidson County and their peers across the county both made progress in math and English language arts scores. English language arts scores remained relatively close between ESA students and their peers across Davidson County both years, with the gap between the sets of scores narrowing slightly. However, the gap widened between ESA students and the county when it came to math scores. Here's how many students scored proficient in math and English language arts in each group in 2024: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Countywide math: 26.4% ESA students math: 15.7% Countywide English language arts: 30.5% ESA English language arts: 28.8% How ESA students performed in Hamilton County Since 2023-24 was the first school year vouchers were offered in Hamilton County, only one year of data is available. ESA students in the county performed far behind their peers in math and English language arts. Here's how many students scored proficient in math and English language arts in each group in 2024: Countywide math: 36.6% ESA students math: 18.1% Countywide English language arts: 39% ESA English language arts: 32.2% How ESA students performed in Shelby County ESA students made large strides in math scores from 2022-23 to 2023-24. The latest math scores match those of their peers across the county. Additionally, ESA students also made gains in their English language arts scores, surpassing countywide scores for the second year in a row. Countywide scores also saw modest gains in both categories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's how many students scored proficient in math and English language arts in each group in 2024: Countywide math: 18.7% ESA students math: 18.7% Countywide English language arts: 23.7% ESA English language arts: 25.1% This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: TN school vouchers: Students raise test scores, still trail peers Russias connection to the rupture of an undersea cable between Finland and Estonia is raising a new bevy of fears over the sabotage of critical power lines. The new incidents come as tensions between the West and Russia and China have risen over the war in Ukraine, and as the world braces for a shift in U.S. leadership as President-elect Trump prepares to take office. The Estlink-2 power cable between Finland and Estonia was allegedly cut on Christmas by a Cook Island-flagged ship called Eagle S, and Western officials claim the ship is part of a vast Russian shadow fleet working to circumvent Western sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident adds to a larger problem related to the security of undersea infrastructure, as China has also been accused of three incidents since 2023 that have disrupted power lines in European waters. Dozens of cables are ruptured each year, usually accidentally, and its unclear if the latest events were intentional. Still, European leaders are sounding the alarm. Recent Baltic Sea sabotage attempts are not isolated incidents; they form a deliberate pattern aimed at damaging our digital and energy infrastructure, said European Union foreign policy head Kaja Kallas in an interview with German newspaper Die Welt. Tensions with Russia in the region have been simmering for years over the Ukraine war. Russia is also suspected by Azerbaijans leaders of shooting down an airliner on Christmas Day, killing 38 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finland is investigating the Estlink-2 incident, which caused minimal disruption, but it said this week an anchor suspected to be from the Eagle S was dragged up to 62 miles under the water. The ship was seized by Finnish police last week. The case is similar to a November incident, in which the Chinese carrier ship Yi Peng 3 is accused of dragging an anchor to cut cables linking Sweden and Lithuania, and another connecting Germany and Finland. In November 2023, a Hong Kong ship was responsible for rupturing a critical gas pipeline between Estonia and Finland. They are not the first such attacks, following the 2022 sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea. Reports suggest Ukraine was likely behind the attack on Nord Stream, which carries gas from Russia to Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These incidents show how the Russia-China axis is increasingly working in sync, wrote Jakub Janda and James Corera of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warning the cuts look like a trend that we shouldnt ignore or tolerate. Political will, and unity of purpose, is needed to make clear this is intolerable, they wrote. Much of the worlds internet connectivity between is enabled by the more than 600 active and planned undersea cables around the world. They have long been seen as at risk. A December report from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace warned that subsea cable systems and the data that flow through them are vulnerable to hacks, espionage, and other cyber risks, in addition to physical threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sophia Besch and Erik Brown, European fellows at Carnegie, said in the report that the West lacks a unified response to protecting subsea infrastructure. They argued Europe should invest in developing new undersea infrastructure protection technology, allocate more resources to support Europes market leaders in subsea cable installation and repair, and work with partners to ensure secure and trusted end-to-end supply chains. European officials are now calling for NATO to bolster undersea infrastructure protections. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said last week the alliance will enhance its military presence in the Baltic Sea. Germany Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said in an interview last week that the spate of recent incidents were a wake-up call for Berlin, according to local media. Ships are currently damaging important submarine cables in the Baltic Sea almost every month. Crews lower anchors into the water, drag them for miles across the seabed for no apparent reason and then lose them when trying to pull them up, she said. In a digitalized world, submarine cables are the communication arteries that hold our world together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO in 2023 warned that Russia had mapped Western undersea cables and that Moscow posed a risk to the critical infrastructure, with the alliance at the time announcing a new center tasked with defending vulnerable undersea areas. After the Nord Stream attacks, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev warned that Moscow could attack undersea cables in retaliation. International agreements exist to protect undersea infrastructure, including Article 113 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which makes it a punishable offense to willfully or negligently disrupt an undersea cable. But the rules have been criticized for not providing accountability, as disruptions in international waters allow for a decision on punishment from the responsible country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The concerns of nations disregarding the rules have only grown. In September, the U.S. led a coalition of nations calling for, among other things, states to comply with applicable international law. The undersea cable industry is primarily built and operated by U.S. and allied nations: the American company SubCom, France-based Alcatel Submarine Networks and Japans Nippon Electric Company. A small percentage of ownership comes from Chinese company HMN Technologies, and Beijing is moving to increase its market share in subsea cables. An August report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said undersea cables are a highly consequential theater of great power competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CSIS said both Russia and China pose threats to the infrastructure, but Moscow, as a continental power with internet connectivity over land, views this infrastructure as a critical point of leverage against the security of Western nations. Researchers said it was critical for the U.S. to invest more in cable repair, increase the size of cable repair ships and work to boost security and protection through the International Cable Protection Committee, which is made up of governments and companies invested in undersea infrastructure. The threats posed by state actorsparticularly Russia and Chinahighlight the urgent need for measures to protect this infrastructure, they wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Jon Tester speaks at a rally in Billings on Nov. 1, 2024, just five days before the 2024 Election (Photo by Darrell Ehrlick of the Daily Montanan). Its not unusual for locals to take advantage of our local treasures. Just as many of us who live in Montana forget that people travel from all over the world to visit Yellowstone or Glacier parks, we also tend to overlook the people who have helped make us who we are. For 18 years, Jon Tester left his farm in Big Sandy every few weeks to fly back to Washington to serve as our U.S. Senator, and you can bet that if he had made any missteps during those 18 years, someone would have found a way to dig it up and make sure it got into the press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tester fought tirelessly for veterans farmers, Native Americans, and especially issues around water, which is going to be one of the most important issues of our time. And he managed to walk the fine line thats always been an important part of Montana politics, not offending the far left and managing to also appeal to conservatives with his stances on gun control. He served as chairman on two of the most powerful committees in the senate, the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. Tester is highly regarded as one of the most effective senators in the current iteration of that august body. Tester is also a prime example of someone who worked his way up to this job rather than having others pay for it. He worked as a butcher, then as a high school music teacher, eventually dipping his toe into public service by running for the school board, which he still calls the hardest job he ever had. He then served in the Montana Senate for eight years, serving as president of the senate for the last two, before finally diving into the senate race against incumbent Conrad Burns. It seems particularly short-sighted of Montanans to dismiss someone who is truly one of their own, especially when you consider how much power in the Senate is based on seniority. We have essentially handed over one of the highest ranking senate leaders to a fellow who became the hand-picked candidate by the people who really seem to matter most in Montana nowadays, which are the political action committees. There is no better example of our state making a decision with very little thought about the consequences. The quality that most defined Tester was making an honest-to-God connection with the people of Montana. If youve ever met Tester in person, there is an authenticity about him that is undeniable. Hes not out there kissing peoples backsides to make sure he holds onto power. Hes genuine in a way that is rare in todays politics. Ive seen him at an event with a huge stain on his shirt, either completely oblivious or completely unconcerned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which makes it that much more confusing, and disappointing, that Montanans made the choice to unceremoniously show Tester the door, in favor of a man who has lived in Montana for only a little more than half the time Tester has been our senator. Tester deserved a better ending to a career where the only dirt that anyone ever found on him was the soil from that farm up north. He was the latest in a long line of Montana politicians, from both sides of the aisle, whose dedication to Montana grew right up from their roots, and never wavered. And like so many of his predecessors, he should have had the opportunity to walk away when he made that choice himself. The House Ethics Committee on Monday cleared two Texas Republican congressmen Wesley Hunt of Houston and Ronny Jackson of Amarillo for violating campaign finance law by allegedly spending campaign money for personal use. In a statement, the committee said it unanimously decided to close the investigations, including ones against two other representatives for the same accusations. The committee said in several investigations it resolved Monday, there was evidence that the members campaigns did not fully comply with campaign finance standards, as well as reporting or recordkeeping requirements for campaign spending. However, there was no evidence that any member intentionally misused campaign funds for their personal benefit, the committee said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation began in March when the Office of Congressional Ethics, a nonpartisan group of professional staffers, sent campaign finance reports from the two representatives to the committee for investigation. They were accused of using campaign funds for private club memberships. Jackson spent nearly $12,000 since 2020 on membership at the Amarillo Club, and Hunt spent over $74,000 between April 2022 and January 2024 at the Post Oak Hotel, including membership fees at its exclusive Oak Room club. The committee opened an identical investigation in 2022 into Jackons use of campaign funds to pay club dues. Then, Jacksons lawyers said in an email to the committee that the membership included event space for fundraising. In a written response to the ethics office regarding the 2024 investigation, Jackson said that he did not violate ethics rules. According to the ethics office report, the Amarillo Club declined to give information that could confirm Jackson used the club for strictly campaign reasons. Hunt provided documents related to his Oak Room expenses, but they were heavily redacted, according to the office. He declined to sit for an interview by the office, but his lawyers said he did nothing wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I commend the House Ethics Committee for their swift resolution of this matter and extend my gratitude for their thorough and diligent work," Hunt said in a statement. "From the outset, I have maintained confidence that this issue would be resolved in our favor. Jackson echoed Hunt in a statement. "I did everything by the book and have fully complied with the committee since these false allegations were first referred by the OCE in 2021," he said. "I am glad to put this ridiculous, partisan, and politically motivated matter behind me, and I am looking forward to working alongside President Trump to improve the lives of my constituents and all Americans." The ethics committee also said the existing law and guidance from the Federal Election Commission is often ambiguous and provides gray areas of spending. The committee updated guidance on personal use of campaign funds and related recordkeeping requirements. In the statement, the committee said it provided relevant members with a copy of the updated guidance, as well as specific findings and recommendations for their campaign activity. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) made an embarrassing flub with his statement that paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at age 100. The Donald Trump-admiring Republican governor hailed Carter for his selfless service to the American people in a statement shared on social media. But Abbott also said that he and his wife, Cecilia Abbott, send our prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family, reported multiplemediaoutlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, though, died at age 96 in November 2023. The statement was later revised to remove any mention of the late former first lady, reported the Houston Press. See an archived version of the statement here and the amended one below: Cecilia and I mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter alongside our fellow Americans. Texas sends our prayers and condolences to the entire Carter family. pic.twitter.com/Ho5YwkeEPJ Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) December 30, 2024 As one social media user quipped, the internet doesnt forget. Greg Abbott sent condolences to Jimmy Carters wife who had been dead a year Turns out he isnt as bad as we thought. He is worse - hes bad and stupid. AnitaWeissman (@AnitaWeissman) December 31, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas Governor Greg Abbott mistakenly offers condolences to the late Rosalyn Carter on the death of her husband, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Rosalyn Carter passed away on November 19, 2023. Did anyone in the Governors Office Proof the Condolence note? @GovAbbottpic.twitter.com/VHLE3kQDkl Texas Democrats Collin County (@CollinDems) December 30, 2024 Texas governor Greg Abbott sends his condolences to Jimmy Carters dead wife Rosalynn Carter. What a trashbag. pic.twitter.com/Y1QHLfAWz1 Art Candee (@ArtCandee) December 31, 2024 Related... Texas Gov. Greg Abbott mourned the death of former President Jimmy Carter by sending thoughts and prayers to former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, whos been dead for more than a year. Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family, a statement from the governor and his wife issued Sunday read, according to Texas station WFAA. The 39th president of the United States died Sunday in Georgia. He celebrated his 100th birthday in October. His wife of 77 years died in November 2023. She was 96. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abbott later issued a statement on X offering condolences to the entire Carter family with no mention of the former First Lady. Having led a life marked by selfless service to the American people, President Carter leaves behind a great legacy as a husband, father, naval officer, governor, and Nobel prize winner, and he will be greatly missed by many, the amended statement reads in part. Carter died in Plains, Ga., where he was born on Oct. 1, 1924. Hed been under home hospice care since Feb. 18, 2023. Carter served one term in the White House that ended in 1981. The rest of his life would be dedicated to public service that included building houses for the poor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also authored 32 books and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. No president lived longer or enjoyed a longer ex-presidency. Carter told family members over the summer that it was his goal to live long enough to vote one more time in November, which he did. _____ A female student at Vista Ridge High in Cedar Park has been accused of killing another student's goat with pesticide at the school's barn. The 17-year-old was charged with animal cruelty, a state jail felony punishable by up to two years in jail, according to an arrest affidavit released in late November. The American-Statesman is not using the girl's name because she is a minor. The girl told Cedar Parkpolice she injected the pesticide into the mouth of the goat in October because the 15-year-old student taking care of the goat "was a cheater," the affidavit said. It said the girl told police she "does not like cheaters." Cedar Park police have a new online reporting system for non-violent crimes. Police were notified about the death of the goat Oct. 25, the affidavit said. Video from the school's Future Farmers of America's barn showed a female, later identified as the student who was charged, leaving a storage area with a syringe and entering a goat's pen Oct. 23, according to the affidavit. It said the student straddled the goat and forced the syringe into the goat's mouth three times. The student then left the barn but returned twice more within a two-hour period and took pictures and a video of the goat, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Two men charged after 15 dead dogs found floating in South Boggy Creek in Austin The goat's owner is the mother of the student raising the goat, police said. The mother told police the girl called, texted and sent her a video Oct. 23, the affidavit said. It said the girl told the mother the goat was "shaking or convulsing and not acting right." The mother found the goat convulsing at the barn the same day and took it to a veterinarian,who could not determine what was wrong, police said. The daughter of the goat's owner went to the school's barn Oct. 24 and heard the goat "bellowing in pain," the affidavit said. It said the goat died in the daughter's arms a short time later. 'It's all bizarre': 15-year-old's mother questions accused student's motives The 15-year-old's mother has spoken up about seeking justice for her daughter and goat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She admitted to poisoning him multiple times over several days. So its a pretty rough situation. We dont believe there is any remorse there, we hope that she has to serve jail time and she gets some kind of mental help," the mother of the 15-year-old told the DailyMail this week. "Its all bizarre. We want justice served, we dont want a slap on the wrist. We want to make sure that she is punished," the mother continued. "At this point, we dont feel like she thinks shes going to be punished and she needs to be. She needs to take ownership for what shes done." The 15-year-old's mother also expressed confusion about the cheating accusation, as she couldn't see how it was possible in relation to showing goats. Instead, she said she believed the older student acted out of jealousy. Accused student's school, phone reveal incriminating evidence The FFA is a national educational organization that allows students to compete in livestock shows across the state with animals the students have raised. Competitors have opportunities to earn scholarships worth thousands of dollars and also have the chance to receive prizes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The accused student recently became her school's FFA president for her senior year. "Leander ISD is proud of its nationally recognized FFA program and saddened to hear of the loss of one of its livestock," the district said in a statement. "In October, a goat died in the Vista Ridge High School Ag Barn. After law enforcement was notified, the district cooperated fully with the Cedar Park Police Department investigation." Students in the program, after signing a facilities use agreement,are provided badge access to check on animals outside of normal hours of operation, the statement said. "The district believes the security measures in place, including surveillance footage as well as routine supervision by agriculture science teachers, provided the evidence law enforcement needed to complete the investigation. While the district cannot comment on the status of the student, disciplinary action was taken consistent with policy and procedures," the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The girl told police Oct. 29 that she gave the goat pesticide through a syringe, the affidavit said. It said she told police it was not the first time she had given pesticide to the goat.She said she also gave the poison through a syringe to the goat Oct. 20, according to the document. Test results on the contents of the goat's stomach Nov. 6 showed that the animal had suffered from organophosphate intoxication from phosmet, police said. Phosmet is a common agricultural pesticide used on plants and animals, the affidavit said. The investigation also found a suspicious search history on the accused student's phone, which allegedly involved research about the lethal doses of bleach for animals as well as how to poison pets. She had also allegedly searched "How to clear search history." The student was initially arrested on Nov. 22 and charged with the state jail felony of cruelty to livestock animals, according to CBS News Austin. She was released the same day on a $5,000 bond. She now faces up to two years in jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Banned from returning to Vista Ridge High until the case is over, the accused student is set to appear in court on Jan. 15. The Texas Future Farmers of America Association issued a statement that said its members "are encouraged to demonstrate ethical behavior in all activities, from competitions to community service." Texas FFA, according to the statement, "does not condone any behavior that compromises ethical standards, animal welfare, or the integrity of its program." This story was updated to add a video. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas high school student accused of killing another's FFA show goat An unidentified technology outage resulted in the closure of Texas drivers license offices across the state Monday. Offices were back open Thursday morning. The Texas Department of Public Safety announced in a social media post that the outage forced the agency to close all driver's license offices on Monday afternoon. Staff was working with customers to reschedule appointments, the department said. The statewide law enforcement and driver's license administration agencys website was also down Monday evening. Driver licenses offices were also closed on Tuesday and Wednesday for the New Year's holiday. Agency officials did not respond to inquiries about the cause of the temporary outage. The outage appeared to be isolated to only the public safety department. The health and education department's websites were working. As was the governor's and Legislature's. The Texas Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a lawsuit against Assistant Attorney General Brent Webster that sought to take away his law license for engaging in dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in a legal filing he and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton submitted regarding 2020 election results. The ruling upholds an earlier one by a Williamson County district judge who decided that taking Websters license would violate the Texas Constitutions separation of powers doctrine. The district courts decision was reversed by the Eighth Court of Appeals in 2023 before the case went before the Texas Supreme Court. Chief Justice Nathan Hecht and Justices John Phillip Devine, Jimmy Blacklock, Brett Busby, Jane Bland, and Rebeca Aispuru Huddle joined Justice Evan A. Young, who delivered the opinion. Justices Jeff Boyd and Debra Lehrmann dissented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically, the court where a lawsuit is filed is tasked with reviewing the accuracy of statements and issuing any rebuke of the attorneys involved, not courts that are not associated with a case, Young wrote. The lawsuit filed by Paxton and Webster sought to contest the 2020 presidential election results in four key battleground states that President Joe Biden won Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. The lawsuit argued those states implemented pandemic-related changes to election procedures that were illegal, casting election results into question. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected the lawsuit in December 2020, days after it was filed. A disciplinary committee for the State Bar of Texas then took what was seen as an extraordinary move by suing Paxton and Webster over their election litigation. Tuesdays ruling did not affect Paxtons case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After four years of lawfare and political retaliation, the Texas Supreme Court has ended this witch hunt against the leadership of my office, Paxton said in a statement released Tuesday. The Texas State Bar attempted to punish us for fighting to secure our national elections but we did not and will not ever back down from doing what is right. Webster echoed Paxtons statement in the same press release, saying President-elect Donald Trumps victory in November would allow them to return the work of making Texas and America great again without distraction. Lowell Brown, associate deputy director for the State Bar, said the bar had no comment on the decision. The Commission for Lawyer Discipline has not had a chance to meet and to discuss the potential implications of the decision with the Chief Disciplinary Counsel, Brown wrote in an email. Disclosure: The State Bar of Texas has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. Channel 2 Action News is looking into thousands of complaints about the paint falling off of late-model cars from a popular automaker. Carrie Francom only has 10,000 miles on her white 2019 Hyundai Sonata. When it rains, it will just start coming off, Francom said. Channel 2 consumer investigator Justin Gray spoke with Francom on a rainy day, which means more paint was likely to come off. I cant even wash it now because if I try to wash it, more paint comes off of it, Francom said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first time the paint started flaking off, Francom was at a hotel and thought someone had scratched or scraped the car. Its embarrassing. I dont like driving around like this. It looks like a Dalmatianlate-model, Francom said. And Francom is not alone, a Hyundai peeling paint Facebook group has thousands of members with similar stories and pictures. Cars of many Hyundai models and colors, but predominantly white. TRENDING STORIES: Pamela Rainey shared a picture of her car, writing It has been garaged since 2020. Came out of work to see this. Thought I was vandalized until I read about the paint issues Hyundai is having. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another woman shared her story on TikTok. I spent $48,000 and at 50,000 miles, my paint started peeling, she said. They are taking to social media because many are not getting help from Hyundai. In a letter denying Francoms claim, Hyundai wrote, We do not believe the paint failed because of a defect. They came back and said I was out of warranty and that their material wasnt defective, which is obviously false because theres thousands of Hyundais running around with paint missing, Francom said. A proposed class action lawsuit about the peeling paint was filed in federal court in New York earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gray reached out to Hyundai who told us in a statement: A manufacturing issue with the paint on Hyundai vehicles is extremely rare and has only occurred in isolated incidents. Owners experiencing paint issues are advised to visit their local dealership or contact the Hyundai Customer Care Center. The fact that they said it was not a defect, thats ridiculous, Francom said. Its really upsetting because I take really good care of my vehicle. After Gray contacted Hyundai, the company agreed to schedule an inspection of the paint, and after that inspection, has now agreed to pay for a new paint job for her Hyundai. NEW LISBON, Wis. (WFRV) Police in Wisconsin say they are searching for a person of interest after an adult and two missing children were found dead in a home Monday afternoon. According to a release from the New Lisbon Police Department, the Juneau County Sheriffs Office was contacted at 10:09 p.m. on Sunday and was asked to help assist with a missing juvenile case from Monroe County. Arrested man becomes unresponsive while in transport to jail, Wisconsin Department of Justice investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say the missing child was last seen with 47-year-old Virgil Thew who was known to be living in New Lisbon. At 7:40 a.m. on Monday, New Lisbon police officers began investigating the missing child reports when they were made aware of a second missing juvenile, this one from the New Lisbon area. The investigation into the two missing children continued throughout the day with the cooperation of the juveniles parents, Wisconsin Probation and Parol, the Monroe County Sheriffs Office, the Mauston Police Department, the Necedah Police Department, and the Wisconsin State Patrol. At 4:29 p.m., the investigation came to a head when the two missing children and an adult were found dead inside a home on the 300 block of West Bridge Street. Authorities say they are now searching for Thew as a person of interest in this incident and he was last seen wearing a dark down coat, blue jeans, and a hat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virgil is said to be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who spots him is asked to not confront or approach him. At this time, no other information is available and Local Five will update this story as more details are released. Three found dead inside a Wisconsin home, police searching for person of interest TUESDAY, December 31, 2024, 6:40 a.m. NEW LISBON, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in Wisconsin say they are searching for a person of interest after three people were found dead inside a home Monday afternoon. According to a release from the New Lisbon Police Department, at 4:29 p.m., the Juneau County Communication Center received a call reporting that three people were found dead inside a home in New Lisbon. Police say they have identified 47-year-old Virgil G. Thew as a person of interest in the matter and are currently searching for him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FBI issues warning to leagues about organized crime groups targeting pro athletes Officers describe Virgil as a white man who stands 510 and weighs 150 pounds. He was last seen wearing a dark down coat and hat. Virgil is currently wanted through Wisconsin Probation and Parol and should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees Virgil is asked not to confront or approach him and they should instead immediately call the New Lisbon Police Department. No information is available at this time, however, officials say more details are expected to be released on Tuesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Three people are in custody after a deadly shooting overnight in Grand Park. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office responded to a home on Division Street around 2 a.m. on Monday. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< A large crowd of neighbors gathered near a local food store after learning that someone in their community had been fatally shot. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office was called to the scene after shots were fired at the residence. Officers found a man in his 30s, who was pronounced dead at the scene by Jacksonville Fire Rescue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sgt. Lloyd of the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office confirmed an adult male in his 30s was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] At this time, the identity of the victim has not been released, and authorities have not disclosed what led to the shooting. Investigators blocked off the area for several hours to collect evidence. Neighbors were visibly shaken, and cries could be heard echoing through the neighborhood as the investigation unfolded. While many neighbors did not want to speak on camera, their grief was apparent. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Police confirmed that three people are currently in custody: two are witnesses, and one is potentially the suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office or CrimeStoppers. Anyone with details related to this case is urged to come forward to help with the investigation. Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON) Years before Denise Huskins was kidnapped from her Vallejo home, held captive, and accused by police of carrying out a Gone Girl inspired hoax, Matthew Muller had other targets, investigators said. On Monday, prosecutors filed charges against Muller in connection to crimes he allegedly carried out in 2009 against two women in the South Bay. Muller, who was featured in the Netflix documentary American Nightmare, was previously convicted of kidnapping and raping Huskins. He was sentenced to serve decades in prison. Women who were tied up during two 2009 South Bay home invasions told accounts that were eerily similar to Huskins traumatic experience. Santa Clara County investigators, however, were unable to dig up enough evidence connecting Muller to the cold cases until this December, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ivy-League educated Marine is now being held in a jail cell in San Jose as he faces new charges. Muller, 47, briefly appeared in court on Monday and did not enter a plea. Matthew Muller is seen in mugshots from 2015 and 2018. (Images via Solano County District Attorneys Office) District Attorney Jeff Rosen said, The details of this persons violent crime spree seem scripted for Hollywood, but they are tragically real. Our goal is to make sure this defendant is held accountable and will never hurt or terrorize anyone ever again. Our hope is that this nightmare is over. Gone Girl Case Timeline 2006 2009: After graduating from Harvard University, Muller worked as a teacher at Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, according to an FBI affidavit. Sept. 29, 2009: Muller broke into a womans Mountain View home, attacked her, tied her up, made her drink a concoction of medications, and said he was going to rape her. After the victim, in her 30s, persuaded him against it, he suggested the victim get a dog, then fled, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oct. 18, 2009: Muller broke into a Palo Alto home, bound and gagged a woman in her 30s and made her drink Nyquil. He then began to assault her, before being persuaded to stop. Muller gave the victim crime prevention advice, then fled, SCCDAO wrote. 2011: Muller became a lawyer and was admitted to the California Bar, an FBI affidavit states. Aaron Quinn, left, and Denise Huskins, right, appear at a law enforcement training event in March 2024. (KRON4 / Amy Larson) March 23, 2015: Muller broke into a Vallejo home on Mare Island where Huskins lived with her boyfriend, Aaron Quinn. He tied the couple up, drugged them with a sleep-inducing liquid, and drove Huskins to a cabin in South Lake Tahoe. Muller played a prerecorded message to the victims that threatened that any noncompliance would be punished by face cutting or electric shock, the U.S. Attorneys Office wrote. Quinn called police to report that his girlfriend was violently abducted from their home in the middle of the night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While 29-year-old Huskins was being held captive in the cabin, Vallejo Police Department detectives suspected that her boyfriend murdered her, the documentary revealed. One detective interrogated Quinn for hours, peppering him with questions about a love triangle between Huskins, Quinn, and Quinns ex-girlfriend. He was asking me question after question about my relationship with Denise. The detective says your story is very elaborate and far-fetched he says I need to come clean, Quinn said. An FBI agent gave Quinn a polygraph lie detect test and told him that he failed. Im staring at the same four walls wondering if I had a psychotic break, Quinn said. March 24, 2015: Muller held Huskins in captivity for 48 hours in South Lake Tahoe, raped her, and threatened to kill her if she ever spoke to police. He sent Quinn two emails demanding a $17,000 ransom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement March 25, 2015: Muller drove Huskins to Southern California and dropped her off near her parents home in Huntington Beach. For a moment, before police and news reporters arrived, Huskins said she thought her nightmare was over. But it wasnt. I go from one nightmare to the next. Theres a media storm building, Huskins said. Vallejo Police Lt. Kenny Parks confirms to reporters that Denise Huskins was found safe on March 25, 2015. (Photo by Chris Riley/ Vallejo Times Herald via Getty Images) Later that day, the Vallejo Police Department held a news conference and told reporters that police found no proof of a kidnapping. Then-VPD spokesman Lt. Kenny Park said, It was such an incredible story, we initially had a hard time believing it, and upon further investigation, we couldnt substantiate any of the things he was saying. Police believed that the entire incident was a hoax. Huskins found out about the news conference from her defense attorney. He tells me, the Vallejo Police Department just held a press conference and they threw you under the bus, she said. Huskins said she believes VPD was driven by anger toward her, saying, The chief of police told (Park), Burn that b**ch.' The case made national media headlines as the Gone Girl kidnapping, in reference to a movie about a woman who faked her own abduction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement March 26 and 28, 2015: The San Francisco Chronicle received emails from an anonymous person claiming to be Huskins kidnapper, including one email demanding that police apologize to Huskins for calling it a hoax. During and after the kidnapping, Muller sent emails to a reporter in San Francisco that falsely claimed, among other things, that the kidnapping had been carried out by a group of elite criminals who were perfecting their kidnapping-for-ransom tactics, the U.S. Attorneys Office stated. The emails author said he felt badly for what happened. April and May 2015: With their assailant still at-large, Quinn said he and Huskins battled depression, anxiety, and received hundreds of negative messages through social media. Denise Huskins, left, and her boyfriend Aaron Quinn listen as their attorneys speak at a news conference on July 13, 2015 in Vallejo, Calif. (Mike Jory/Vallejo Times-Herald via AP) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement June 5, 2015: Muller burglarized a Dublin familys home and left a cellphone behind. June 8, 2015: When Dublin Police Detective Misty Carausu and Alameda County Sheriffs deputies found Muller in his South Lake Tahoe cabin, they discovered evidence connecting him to the Vallejo kidnaping. Investigators found blacked-out swim goggles that still had long blonde hair stuck to them, zip ties, Quinns computer, and duct tape. GPS from a stolen white Mustang parked outside the cabin contained the location when Huskins was dropped off in Huntington Beach. The evidence matched the story that Quinn and Huskins told Vallejo police. Carausu said Vallejo police had no interest in talking to her about their case. She continued calling VPD like a crazy ex-girlfriend, Carausu said. Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn walk into a news conference with their attorney in San Francisco on Sept. 29, 2016. . (Photo By Paul Chinn/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images) Quinn said, Misty had compassion and curiosity for finding facts. Misty was relentless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An FBI analysis of Mullers computers uncovered a sound recording that simulated people whispering to each other, and a video recording of Muller together with Huskins in the cabin. She was blindfolded and fully under Mullers control, federal prosecutors wrote. October 1, 2015: Muller was indicted on federal charges for kidnapping Huskins. September 29, 2016: The Marine pleaded guilty in federal court. March 16, 2017: U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley sentenced Muller to serve 40 years in federal prison for kidnapping. U.S. Attorney Phillip Talbert said, This serious violent crime was solved because Alameda County authorities responded so effectively to the Dublin burglary and then provided the evidence necessary. Muller had advantages in life that most people only dream of, yet he used his considerable intelligence to plan and execute the physical assault and psychological torture of two innocent strangers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was sent to Federal Correctional Institution in Tucson, Arizona. September 2018: He was charged by the Solano County District Attorneys Office with raping Huskins. Muller, a former attorney, pleaded not guilty and requested to act as his own defense attorney. Huskins and Quinn got married. March 2022: Muller pleaded no contest to multiple counts of rape for the Huskins case. A Solano County Superior Court judge sentenced him to serve 31 years in state prison. January 2024: Netflix released its popular documentary, American Nightmare, with more details about what happened to Huskins, Quinn, and Muller. Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn arrive at the 2024 Critics Choice Real TV Awards on June 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz /FilmMagic) Denise Huskins arrives at the 2024 Critics Choice Real TV Awards on June 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic) March 2024: Huskins and Quinn are parents of two daughters. They appeared at a law enforcement training event held in Seaside, Calif., to describe what Vallejo police did wrong, and how officers can handle sexual assault investigations better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huskins said, We have two beautiful daughters, our little ones give us so much joy. We refuse to live our lives in fear and hiding. We want to make change for our daughters and others who may be lost in the (criminal justice) system. Our story is an example of the worst in people and the best in people. Aaron Quinn, left, and Denise Huskins, right, appear at a law enforcement training event in Seaside, California in March 2024. (KRON4 / Amy Larson) Rosen said a conversation between Huskins and the Seaside Police Chief set the ball in motion for new charges. November 2024: The Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office coordinated with the Palo Alto and Mountain View police departments to send evidence from the South Bay 2009 cold cases back to a lab for further DNA testing. Rosen said advances in DNA technology found Mullers DNA on straps he used to bind one of the victims. Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen talks to reporters. (KRON4 Photo) December 30, 2024: Santa Clara County prosecutors charged Muller with first-degree burglary with intent to commit rape for the 2009 cases. A judge ordered the inmate to be held in custody without bail. I think its fair to say that there were mistakes made in this investigation. What were proud to say now is that were able to bring this perpetrator to justice, Rosen said. January 17, 2025: Muller is scheduled to be arraigned in the Hall of Justice in San Jose to enter a plea. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. CHICAGO A Christmas morning fire in the citys Roseland neighborhood destroyed a garage and killed a man, but his body wasnt found until Sunday after a fire official responded to pleas from a mother looking for her son. Michelle Murry said that after days of searching and calls to officials, her sons burned body was found in the fetal position in the rubble of the fire on the 9400 block of South LaSalle Street. I had called the fire department to ask them to help with some of the debris, because I felt my son was under the debris, and he was, Murry told WGN on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murry said her son, Wesley Freeman, was supposed to visit on Christmas but he neither showed up nor called. She learned about the fire the next day from neighbors and said her calls to police and fire went nowhere. They told me no one was there. They put out the fire and no one was there, she said. In the days following Christmas, Murry called hospitals and filed a missing persons report, still with a strong sense that her son was in the garage where she said hed been living for about six months. Fire department spokesman Larry Langford told WGN that both the garage and its adjacent home were vacant. He confirmed that Freemans remains were found four days after the fire and expressed regret that he wasnt discovered before the fire was put out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you had checked in the beginning when you put out of the fire, perhaps he couldve been here today, the grieving mother said. Thats the thing that bothers me the most, because I was constantly calling them and constantly (being told) no one was there. Freeman was Murrys oldest son, and she said shell miss his laughter and kind heart. She wants justice, but said she hopes her sons death will provide a lesson so that another family doesnt have to endure the same heartache. Fire officials said theyre deeply saddened by the tragedy and have launched an investigation into how Freeman was overlooked. Police said detectives are also investigating the incident. The cause of the fire remains unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murry has established a GoFundMe account to help cover burial expenses. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. The European Union's top diplomat in Syria has met the country's newly appointed foreign minister, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani. The Syrian Foreign Ministry in Damascus said on Tuesday that al-Shibani discussed the security, unity and independence of Syria with Michael Ohnmacht, the EU's head of delegation. Al-Shibani called for stronger diplomatic relations with the EU and the beginning of a new chapter after the fall of former strongman Bashar al-Assad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohnmacht had already held initial talks with representatives of the new transitional government in Syria two weeks ago. He stressed the European Union's support for the peaceful transfer of power in Syria and said it was important that the new Syrian government - led by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham organization - also take into account the rights of minorities and women. Its not easy being a Conservative nowadays. The Left talk as if the whole of the 14 years of Conservative government was a failure, and nothing good happened at all. Unfortunately, Conservative politicians have failed to defend any aspect of their record in government, so the argument is conceded by default. It is something they are already reaping the consequences of. Reform UK likes to pretend they are the true Conservative party but they are very far from being what anyone could define as traditionally Conservative. If you are on social media and are seen as a Tory supporter, you will, like me, be told on a daily basis that you should join Reform UK, the real Conservative party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then again, Im also told I should join my real political home, the Liberal Democrats, ignoring the fact that I am pro Brexit, anti proportional representation and am not a climate change zealot. I could not support Reform UK for a whole host of reasons, including their abhorrent attitude to immigration and their leaders often expressed tolerance (at the very least) of Russias Vladimir Putin. As we move into a new year, it will be a great temptation for the Conservatives to try to win over Reform voters by apeing their rhetoric and policies. This would be a disastrous road for Kemi Badenoch to go down. She needs to redefine Conservatism for a new era. You dont do this by trying to out-Farage Farage. You also cant do it overnight. Badenoch needs to be given time by her own party to refashion it, not just in her own image, but with a declaration of aspirations that the majority of the electorate can buy into. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detailed policies can wait but she needs to reflect on what Margaret Thatcher did during her first two years as Tory leader. She refashioned Central Office and galvanised the Right-of-centre think tanks into thinking the unthinkable, much of which became successful Conservative policy after her election victory in 1979. Thatcher didnt have the demands of 24-hour news media or social media to face, and Badenoch still has to work out how to feed the beast without compromising her strong belief in only saying something when you have something to say. Some commentators are already preparing to write off Kemi Badenoch before shes even completed two months in the job. They are fools. No one is particularly interested in what the Conservatives have to say at the moment. As Labours failures mount up, that time will come. And when it does, Badenoch needs to have put the structures and platforms in place, ready for the kind of fight she so obviously relishes. Lets hope her party give her that time. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. TOWANDA, Pa. (WETM) A Towanda man has been sentenced to serve time in state prison after he was found guilty of trespassing at a business in the borough. Jeffrey A. Roberts, 36, was sentenced to a minimum of seven months to a maximum of 36 months for criminal trespass, a second-degree felony, as reported by the Bradford County District Attorneys Office. Wysox man gets probation for stealing copper wire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts was charged by Towanda Borough Police after an investigation into complaints of a trespasser at a business in Towanda Borough. Police say that when the chief of the police department arrived at the business, he was told that an employee who had arrived to open the business heard a person snoring upstairs and called the police. The chief then searched the location and found Roberts sleeping in the business. Roberts then challenged and threatened the chief during most of their interaction. Sayre man to spend up to 5 years in prison for threatening someone with knife The district attorney stated that Roberts has a long record of criminal history including criminal trespass convictions, theft convictions and more that date back to 2008. Roberts was also on state parole at the time he committed his most recent trespassing offense. As a result, Roberts was placed back in prison where he will be subject to parole revocation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, Roberts will serve 37 months to as much as 11 years in state prison with his release being delayed further by any additional parole violations he receives. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. Dec. 30AUSTIN Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) asks hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas to monitor for animals affected by New World Screwworm (NWS) after a recent detection in Mexico. This detection, found in a cow at an inspection checkpoint in the southern Mexico State of Chiapas, close to the border with Guatemala, follows the progressively northward movement of NWS through both South and Central Americas. As a protective measure, animal health officials ask those along the southern Texas border to monitor wildlife, livestock and pets for clinical signs of NWS and immediately report potential cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is New World Screwworm? New World screwworms are larvae or maggots of the NWS fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax), that cause a painful condition known as NWS myiasis. NWS flies lay eggs in open wounds or orifices of live tissue such as nostrils, eyes or mouth. These eggs hatch into dangerous parasitic larvae, and the maggots burrow or screw into flesh with sharp mouth hooks. Wounds can become larger, and an infestation can often cause serious, deadly damage or death to the infected animal. NWS primarily infests livestock but can also affect humans and wildlife including deer and birds. The parasite was last eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, with costly efforts by federal and state animal health officials, livestock producers and veterinary practitioners. Eradication efforts have continued in Central America, but the pest is considered widespread in Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic and South American countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clinical signs of NWS myiasis may include: Irritated or depressed behavior Loss of appetite Head shaking Smell of decaying flesh Presence of fly larvae (maggots) in wounds Isolation from other animals or people Transmission NWS infestations begin when a female NWS fly is drawn to the odor of a wound or natural opening on a live, warm-blooded animal, where she lays her eggs. These openings can include wounds as small as a tick bite, nasal or eye openings, navel of a newborn or genitalia. One NWS female fly can lay up to 300 eggs at a time and may lay up to 3,000 eggs during her lifespan. Eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) that burrow into an opening to feed. After feeding, larvae drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and emerge as adult NWS flies. Adult NWS flies can fly long distances and the movement of infested livestock or wildlife can increase the rate of spread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prevention When spending time outdoors (especially if traveling abroad to NWS-affected areas), be sure to clean and cover all wounds in addition to applying insect repellent to outdoor clothing to help avoid contact with NWS and other harmful insects. How to Help While in the field enjoying activities such as hunting, hiking or bird watching, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are asked to report suspected signs of NWS. Any wildlife with suspicious clinical signs consistent with NWS should be immediately reported to a local wildlife biologist. Livestock reports should be made to the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Those enjoying Texas' natural resources have an opportunity to serve as the first line of defense in protecting wildlife, livestock, and human health," said TPWD wildlife veterinarian Dr. J Hunter Reed. "Their eyes and ears will be critical to quickly responding and managing this threat." Additional information about NWS can be found on TAHC, USDA and the Center for Disease Control NWS webpages. Trader Joe's, the popular grocery chain known for its unique original products and affordable prices, will open three new stores in Los Angeles next year. According to the company's website, the new locations will be in Northridge, Sherman Oaks and Tarzana in the San Fernando Valley. Read more: Trader Joes to open eight new SoCal stores. Heres where they will be The website lists the planned addresses for each storefront but does not specify when they will open. Nakia Rohde, a Trader Joes spokesperson, confirmed to The Times that the new locations are expected to open next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chain intends to open at least nine other stores in 2025, including in Seattle and New York, as part of a nationwide expansion. New store locations will be added to the website throughout the year, Rohde said. Earlier this year, the company confirmed it would open eight new store locations in Southern California, including in South Pasadena, Northridge, Sherman Oaks, Santa Clarita, Ladera Ranch, Murrieta, Poway and Santee. The rate of openings "is faster than it's been in the last few years," a Trader Joe's spokesperson told The Times in May. The planned expansion comes as grocery stores across Southern California and the country compete to win over budget-conscious consumers. Inflation has driven up supermarket prices in recent years, causing average Americans to cut back on discretionary spending and seek out bargains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Food prices are expected to increase at a slower rate in 2025 but will remain on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the price of a dozen large eggs jumped from $2.14 in November 2023 to $3.65 in November 2024. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that food-at-home prices will rise 0.8% in 2025. A 2022 Times survey of staple items at popular grocery chains in Southern California found that Trader Joe's had the lowest prices. The privately held chain is owned by German supermarket chain operator Aldi Nord and currently has more than 540 locations in 42 states and Washington, D.C. In an October episode of the Inside Trader Joe's podcast, marketing executives Tara Miller and Matt Sloan said the company considers population density, accessibility and parking infrastructure when looking at sites for new stores. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community campaigns to bring a new store to an area don't influence expansion plans, they said. "We are excited when people are excited about us but that's really not what's driving the decisions," Miller said. "We are growing at a pretty good rate right now, adding more and more stores." Trader Joe's opened its first location in Pasadena in 1967 and remains headquartered in Monrovia. The chain has gained a cult-like following for its branded merchandise, wide array of frozen options and well-priced produce. Here are the new locations coming to SoCal: 9224 Reseda Blvd., Northridge 14140 Riverside Drive, Sherman Oaks 18700 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana Sign up for our Wide Shot newsletter to get the latest entertainment business news, analysis and insights. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The stretch of tragedies continues for a Livonia family after a man who fell through the ice while fishing with his 15-year-old grandson last week was taken off life support and died, the Oakland County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday. Scott Christopher Levitan, 66, had been in critical condition after he initially survived the fall into Lake George, near Addison, on Dec. 26. The ice gave way while drilling a hole. It was his grandson who called 911. Nearly 24 hours to the minute after Levitan fell through the ice, his wife, Mary Lou Levitan, 66, died in a car crash while on the way to pick up his vehicle at Lake George. She was the passenger in a car traveling on Rochester Road when another car crossed the center line and struck the vehicle head-on, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash occurred Friday at 1:53 p.m. On Thursday, at 1:45 p.m., Mary Lou Levitan's husband fell into the ice. He was taken off life support shortly after 1 p.m. on Tuesday and died. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a statement that his prayers are with the family. He previously called the tragedy "unspeakable. According to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office, the woman was a back seat passenger traveling to pick up her husband's vehicle at Lake George when another vehicle crossed the center line on Rochester Road in Oakland Township, striking the car she was in. The crash occurred Friday at 1:53 p.m. On Thursday, at 1:45 p.m., her husband fell into the ice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman's husband was fishing with their 15-year-old grandson, visiting from Ligonier, Pennsylvania, when the ice gave way while drilling a hole. The boy called paramedics before trying to help his grandfather out of the water. Then he fell in, too. Neighbors nearby who saw the pair fall approached on a kayak and tried to assist, the sheriff's office said, but were unable to remove the grandfather until help arrived. Twenty-four hours later, a 19-year-old man from Oakland Township in a 2011 Ford Edge, heading south on Rochester Road, crossed the center line and struck a northbound 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee head-on. The grandmother, in the back seat, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the Jeep and his wife, both 62 from Clarkston, were taken to a hospital by paramedics. The man was in stable condition, while the woman was listed in critical condition. The 19-year-old Ford driver was airlifted to a hospital where he was listed in stable condition. Investigators have not determined what caused the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrea Sahouri covers criminal justice for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at asahouri@freepress.com or on X: @andreamsahouri. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Tragedy continues for Livonia family of man who fell through ice The full tragedy of the woman burned to death on the New York subway before Christmas was revealed Tuesday as police said they had finally established her identity. They named Debrina Kawam, 57, as the victim of the murder, committed early on the morning of Sunday Dec. 22, and said she was a homeless woman originally from New Jersey, according to The New York Post. Kawam was apparently sleeping on the F train at Coney Island when she was set ablaze by a man with a lighter, who then fanned the flames with a shirt. The case has become a political lightning rod after the man charged with her murder, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, was revealed to be an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala who had previously been deported in 2018 after illegally crossing the border from Mexico. President-elect Donald Trumps incoming border czar, Tom Homan, claimed it was a matter of shame for the state and city of New York and used it to highlight Republican claims of an epidemic of killings by illegal immigrants, telling Fox News, Its almost a daily occurrence now. There are no official statistics to back his claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta-Calil has been charged with first-degree murder and faces life without parole if found guilty. He has not entered a plea. New York authorities had struggled to identify Kawam due to her extreme injuries, and she was identified by police and the medical examiner through fingerprint analysis, according to reports. Kawams murder came after a tragic struggle with homelessness and debt, New York officials said. Mayor Eric Adams said that she had briefly spent time in New York Citys shelter system. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, was arrested after fleeing the scene, having allegedly watched his victim die from a bench opposite the open train door. He faces life without parole if found guilty. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images Watching that tape, I couldnt even watch it all the way through. Just a bad incident, and it impacts on how New Yorkers feel, Adams said earlier this week. It really reinforces what Ive been saying, people should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care. And no matter where she lived, that should not have happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources told The New York Post that Kawam had been living in homeless shelters in the city since early September, and had last been recorded in one on the Bronx on Dec. 2, 20 days before her death. Kawam was said by authorities to have last lived permanently in Toms River, New Jersey, more than 70 miles from New York. Public records also show that in 2020 she had been living in a down-at-heel apartment in Atlantic City, NJ, and had struggled with debt over the years. She had a string of debts stretching back to the 1990s, and in 2008 she declared bankruptcy with debts as high as $100,000, saying she was unable to work due to illness. Kawam was on this F train at its terminus in Coney island, Brooklyn, when her killer set her on fire with a lighter and fanned the flames with a shirt, according to prosecutors. She had struggled for years with debt and homelessness. / Anadolu / Anadolu via Getty Images She had been arrested for disorderly conduct in Maryland in 2010, spent some time in Florida and also been pursued for unpaid rent in Toms River in 2016. Kawam was last seen alive on the F train at the Coney island terminus surrounded by her belongings and a walker. Horrific video footage showed how the alleged suspectwho police do not believe knew Kawam but who was also homelesswatched from a bench as his victim was completely engulfed in fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was moved away by police, who later issued his picture from surveillance footage. Three teenagers spotted Zapeta-Calil later in the day, leading to his arrest. My office is very confident about the evidence in this case and our ability to hold Zapeta accountable for his dastardly deeds, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said after charges were announced. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A trailer filled with donations to the Salvation Army burned Sunday night in central Bakersfield. Ronalee Fenrich, of the Salvation Army, said the fire happened just after 9 p.m. in a lot near 19th Street and Union Avenue. According to Fenrich, several people jumped a fence and set one of the organizations four trailers on fire. No arrests were made, according to BFD. Kern DA files first felony case under Prop 36 law Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trailer contained donations made to the Salvation Army mostly books. Fenrich said the donations are sold in the Salvation Army thrift stores and help fund its mens rehabilitation program. The loss amounts to thousands of dollars that would normally fund the program, she said. I just keep thinking of how many men couldve been helped with the money [the donations] wouldve made? Fenrich told 17 News on Monday. Fenrich said three other trailers were not damaged and the organization is continuing to accept donations to help offset the losses. The Salvation Armys Thrift Store and Donation Center is located at 120 19th St., or you can make a direct donation to the rehabilitation program at this link. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. The trial date for a man accused of hitting his daughter with his truck before leading police on a chase that ended in a crash and shootout has been moved. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The trial for James Skirvin, 54, has been moved to April 2025, according to Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas records. This came after his lawyers learned about new evidence from the prosecutors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As previously reported by News Center 7, Skirvin was indicted back in March on six counts of felonious assault on a police officer and one count each of discharge of a firearm on or near prohibited premises, failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer, vehicular assault, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, and aggravated possession of drugs. RELATED CONTENT: The charges stem from the events of January 8. On that day, Trotwood police and medics were dispatched to Voyager Village mobile home park on a report of a person who had been hit by a vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders found a 35-year-old woman who had been sitting on a bench near the park office when Skirvin hit her with his pickup truck. As previously reported, it was revealed the woman was his daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further investigation determined Skirvin and the woman had been in an argument and she had walked away. Skirvin got into his truck and drove towards her, hitting both her and destroying the park bench. >> PHOTOS: Police cruiser involved in crash; Large investigation closes U.S. 35 in Montgomery Co. As officers were investigating, Skirvin allegedly drove through the park, pointing a firearm at the officers and others. He then left the park and a police chase began. The chase made it onto US 35 and ended at the intersection of Liscum Drive when Skirvin crashed his truck head-on into a Trotwood Police Officers Michael Richardson cruiser. The truck ended up on top of his cruiser, which Richardson was inside at the time of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richardson was critically injured in the crash. If convicted, Skirvin faces decades in prison. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) Its a common sight for doctors this time of year to see more and more patients sick with respiratory viruses like RSV, flu, and, over the past couple of years, COVID-19. According to the CDC, flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases are on the rise, but influenza is causing the most concern this winter. Weve definitely seen an uptick in flu. RSV is also trending up, but flu is the big one, especially in the last few weeks, especially with the holiday break, said Dr. Brad Dulee with the Enterprise Pediatric Clinic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Human skeletal remains discovered in south Alabama woods, investigation ongoing In the week ending on December 21st, flu rates doubled in just seven days, and with people visiting family and hosting holiday gatherings, those rates could grow even faster. Really, the worst, most of the time, happens in January. So we do anticipate that, and we ask everybody to be vigilant, especially over the next four to six weeks, especially as the weather gets cooler, at least here, said Dr. Russell Bedsole at Flowers Hospital. Its a trend seen quite frequently in the past. Before the pandemic and last year, flu rates spiked in Alabama at the end of December, carrying through February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doctors say the best way to keep yourself healthy is to be vaccinated. Encouraging people to consider the vaccines, their effective vaccines for all three, but obviously including flu. And while not foolproof, they definitely help prevent significant or severe disease and help prevent hospitalizations as well, said Dr. Bedsole. Blanket of fog coming to Dothan, Wiregrass And with kids returning to school, being on top of their health should be a priority. Yeah, I think vaccines helped to prevent kiddos from getting really sick, especially our kids with high medical complexity and common conditions such as asthma. They can get pretty sick without the vaccine, especially kiddos like that. And it lasts for pretty long. The symptoms linger for sure, Dr. Bulee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether its the flu, RSV, or Covid, its important to make sure you treat your symptoms and visit your provider if you have an underlying condition. We see a lot of real small cough or cold can change into pneumonia or change into a significant upper respiratory infection, so. Always encourage those with chronic medical conditions, especially. To seek care sooner rather than later, because we can guide kind of the treatment options, and it may be something simple, but the simple things help prevent the the worst outcomes, said Dr. Bedsole. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Dec. 30The Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers will be patrolling in force during the next few days to keep roads safe. The patrol's New Year's holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, and will run until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1. During last year's New Year's holiday counting period, troopers worked nine fatality crashes, 293 injuries, and 821 accidents statewide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For this year's holiday, troopers ask drivers to designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service rather than driving under the influence. Troopers are also looking out for individuals breaking state traffic laws such as not wearing a seat belt, using a cell phone while driving, not paying attention at all times, not using turn signals, and driving above the posted speed limits. Those needing help can call the patrol's emergency assistance number at 800-525-5555 or dial *55 on a cell phone. Laura Loomer, a staunch ally of President-elect Trump and far-right activist, suggested that some Republicans in Trumps circle dont want to cross billionaire Elon Musk. It sounds like people are scared of crossing the king, the king of the world, Elon Musk, the monarch, Loomer told longtime conservative broadcaster and pundit Eric Bolling on Monday. Nobody wants to cross this guy, she added in the interview, as highlighted by Mediaite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loomer also suggested during the interview that Musks multimillion-dollar campaign that helped propel Trump back into the Oval Office may have intimidated some within the president-elects base. This is the problem when you allow for a billionaire to make a $200 million donation. And so, maybe we really do need to have campaign finance regulations in this country, Loomer said. Throughout the 2024 election cycle, the Tesla and SpaceX executive donated nearly $239 million, including in-kind contributions, to America PAC, his super PAC that backed Trumps latest presidential bid, according to Federal Election Commission reports filed Thursday night. Loomers comment comes amid escalated scrutiny from the far-right activist against the tech mogul for his close allyship to the president-elect. Loomer took aim at Musk, calling him a Stage 5 clinger during a separate interview with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that a lot of people have a hard time speaking truth to power, and a lot of people are afraid of taking on billionaires, Loomer told Bannon on his War Room podcast. He is the richest man in the world, and so he kind of orbits President Trump. As I called him the other day, I said hes a Stage 5 clinger, she continued. Musk and ex-GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, tapped to lead Trumps incoming Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), faced backlash from some of Trumps supporters after signaling their support for the H-1B work visa, a key immigration program designed to attract international talent. Loomer and other hard-line immigration Republicans were critical of Musk, who faced accusations of censorship after several right-wing accounts on Musks social platform X, including Loomers, lost access to premium features including verification and monetization, NBC News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Photo illustration via Canva) A federal judge is refusing for now to block a new policy in Florida prisons that requires transgender women inmates to cut their hair to meet male grooming standards and prohibits them from wearing female undergarments. Florida announced the policy change in late September and suggested at the time it would block transgender inmates from receiving hormonal therapy pending evaluation of whether individual inmates should continue to receive it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reiyn Keohane, who has been receiving hormone therapy as well as grooming and clothing accommodations since 2016, sued officials with the Department of Corrections over the policy changes as unconstitutional. Keohane, represented by attorneys with the American Civil Liberties Union, is serving a 15-year sentence in a Wakulla state prison for attempted second-degree murder. At about that time, the ACLU on behalf of Keohane sued state prison officials over their treatment of transgender inmates, resulting in a policy that allowed hormone therapy as well as female clothing and grooming standards. The new policy countermands those accommodations. U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor, appointed by President Donald Trump, last Friday rejected a request for a preliminary injunction. In his ruling, Winsor concluded that Keohane lacked standing to challenge the hormone therapy policy because it was not a blanket ban. The ruling noted a preliminary determination has found that Keohane should continue with therapy. Previous rulings Winsor found that there is not enough evidence to show that denying Keohane the ability to wear makeup, have long hair, or wear female clothing violates the Eighth Amendment right to necessary medical care for prisoners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Winsor quoted previous court findings that medical treatment provided for inmates only violates the Eighth Amendment when it grossly incompetent, inadequate or excessive as to shock the conscience or to be intolerable to fundamental fairness. He pointed out that the department continues to provide psychotherapy and that Keohane is still receiving hormone therapy. Keohane relies extensively on three declarations in which inmates express a profound desire for social accommodations, Winsor wrote. Keohanes own declaration reports immense distress flowing from being denied these accommodations and that the distress could lead to self-harm, including suicide. Two other inmate declarations report similar feelings. But while these are serious matters evidencing serious psychological concerns, Keohane has not shown that the only proper way to address risks of self-harm is to provide inmates with whatever items they contend would reduce those risks. Baseless campaign The decision was sharply criticized by one of the ACLU attorneys working on the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida officials are waging a baseless campaign to dehumanize and degrade incarcerated people like our client, Li Nowlin-Sohl, senior staff attorney at the ACLUs LGBTQ + HIV Project, said in a release. Allowing this policy to move forward threatens the basic human rights of transgender people in the states custody and the courts order affords the states policy more credulity than it deserves when the clear intent of the state is to ban this health care outright. Winsor in his ruling said he would issue another order shortly on a motion to dismiss filed by the Department of Corrections on the underlying lawsuit. Immigration officials and agents at the U.S.-Mexico border insist there is still time for a potential surge of immigrants to cross into the country illegally before President-elect Trump takes office and cracks down on border entries. Trump and his border czar, Tom Homan, have pledged to begin mass deportation efforts on Day 1 of Trumps second White House term. But with three weeks before Trumps inauguration, federal immigration officials believe they could be facing an influx of migrants who attempt to find safety in the U.S. before the border is closed. Homan, however, is warning them not to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several caravans of immigrants have broken free from Mexicos southernmost point in Tapachula near the Guatemalan border. However, those groups of migrants have not yet reached the U.S.-Mexico border. Instead, smaller segments of those caravans have arrived in Eagle Pass, Texas, before Trump takes office. Since President Biden took office in 2021, more than 8 million migrants have been encountered at the southern border. The majority were given a court date to appear at an immigration hearing, which can take years to materialize. Homan recently told NewsNation that immigrants who cross illegally and then enter the process seeking asylum should not get comfortable living in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They need to hear, they need to understand, Do not sell everything you own to give it to the criminal cartels to be smuggled into the United States because youre not going to stay, Homan said. He added that the Trump administration will be ending the federal catch and release program, which allows immigrants who entered the country illegally to remain in the country as long as they are in the process for asylum. Stay in your homeland, the incoming border czar told NewsNation. Be safe. Crossing into this country illegally is very dangerous. Homan also noted that a record number of migrants have died attempting to cross into the U.S. and that a record number of Americans are dying from fentanyl. Homan blamed both the migrant and American deaths on the Biden administration and its approach to the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas Department of Public Safety officers encountered two unaccompanied girls who were abandoned by a smuggler in Eagle Pass before the smuggler fled back to Mexico. Texas DPS said that the girls, ages 5 and 9, were from El Salvador. Both children had a note that included an address and phone number. While Homan wants migrants to remain safe, he told NewsNation that many are ignoring warnings in an attempt to get family members across the border before Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Homans warnings come as Mexico government officials announced they would open 25 detention centers for immigrants who were sent back across the border once they were detained by U.S. immigration officials. With a tougher stance coming once Trump takes office, Homan said there is one solution for migrants looking to remain safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stay home, he said. NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President-elect Donald Trumps incoming White House chief of staff has ordered his Cabinet picks not to post on social media without approval from the transition team. The orders come amid an increasingly vicious MAGA civil war over visas for skilled immigrants. While this instruction has been delivered previously, I am reiterating that no member of the incoming administration or Transition speaks for the United States or the President-elect himself, soon-to-be Chief of Staff Susie Wiles said in a memo, according to The New York Post. Accordingly, all intended nominees should refrain from any public social media posts without prior approval of the incoming White House counsel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It remains unclear what specifically led to the memo being issued now, but Senate confirmation hearings are set to begin early next year just as the MAGA war is escalating. Billionaire Trump-backer Elon Musk has vowed he will go to war with MAGA Republicans over protecting H-1B visas that allow skilled foreigners to fill significant roles in the tech industry, including in Musk businesses, for up to six years. The South African-born Musk has argued that foreign talent is needed in the tech industry, and endorsed a post on X referring to American workers as re***ded (which he has since deleted). Trump backer and right-wing gadfly Laura Loomer, meanwhile, has attacked Musk on his stance on X, and called on the president-elect to fulfill his promises to remove the H-1B visas. She lashed Musk on Steve Bannons War Room podcast Monday as a welfare queen who has collected billions of dollars in subsidies from American taxpayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bannon, Trumps one-time White House strategist, demanded reparations on the program from Musk and other tech leaders for stealing jobs from Americans to give them to H-B1 immigrants. Trump is supporting Musks position, to the outrage of many of his supporters who want American jobs, especially top-paying work, for Americans, as they were led to believe Trump supported. Trump lauded the use of H-1B visas on Saturday even as he has slammed them in the past as being very bad and unfair to Americans. Musk is set to run the outside commission known as the Department of Government Efficiency alongside 2024 Republican primary candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Ramaswamy also strongly supports the H-1B visas, arguing that American culture is the reason Americans have a hard time competing with skilled foreign employees in the tech industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A culture that celebrates the prom queen over the math olympiad champ, or the jock over the valedictorian, will not produce the best engineers, Ramaswamy wrote in a post on X. President-elect Donald Trump looks on during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center last week in Phoenix, Arizona. His cabinet picks have been ordered to get any social media posts cleared ahead of time by the incoming White House counsel (Getty Images) The ugly visa battle is hardly the only thing on lawmakers minds ahead of Cabinet position hearings. Some Democratic senators are frantically working to oppose some of Trumps picks even as they have limited power to stop their confirmations when the new Republican majority in the upper chamber takes hold. Confirmations for the cabinet only need a simple majority to go through. This means that Democrats need to peel off some Republican votes to stop any of Trumps cabinet picks. There are a number of cabinet picks who face increased scrutiny, including Pete Hegseth to head the Department of Defense, Kash Patel to be FBI director, anti-vaxxer Robert Kennedy Jr. to take charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as Tulsi Gabbard, whom Trump has selected to be his director of national intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Warrington is set to be the next White House counsel; he has been put in charge of monitoring the nominees social media use. Warrington served as the top lawyer on the Trump campaign. Dave has represented me well as my personal attorney, and as General Counsel for my Presidential Campaign. He is an esteemed lawyer and Conservative leader, Trump said of Warrington. For once, Donald Trump has no words. On Monday, the president-elect posted a supercut of Democratic officials defending President Joe Bidens stamina and vision. Left without comment, the video was an apparent jab at accusations embroiling Washington once again this week that journalists and officials were guilty of a cover-up of Bidens decline. There is nothing to these challenges that he is not sharp and he is not capable, of being president for four more years, Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) says at one point in the video Trump posted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But two weeks ago, the Wall Street Journal released a damning report describing how Bidens aides kept the presidents interactions short and tightly scriptedand held other top officials and lawmakers at arms-lengthallowing his waning energy levels to remain under wraps. The stark contrast between the energized, detail-oriented Biden his supporters described in the supercut and the struggling, exhausted president who showed up to debate Trump in late June has also led some journalists to rip into their colleagues for failing to cover the story more aggressively. Asked over the weekend what she thought was the most underreported story of the year, CBS News political and legal correspondent Jan Crawford replied, That would be, to me, Joe Bidens obvious cognitive decline that became undeniable in the televised debate. Citing the Wall Street Journal report, she continued, We should have much more forcefully questioned whether he was fit for office for another four years, which could have led to a primary for the Democrats. It could have changed the scope of the entire election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden has said he was sick during the debate, and the Journals report didnt uncover any evidence of cognitive declinejust a tired old man who should have been relieved to hang up his hat after accomplishing an aggressive policy agenda against long odds. But the debate laid his limitations bare, and conservatives have been having a field day with first Democrats and now the press corps' reckoning. Jan Crawford is not going to be popular at the CBS New Years Eve party. Let me tell you that right now, Fox News pundit Kennedy joked on Monday. She has been red-pilled and my question is, Hey Jan, what took you so long? Trump, meanwhile, is apparently just sitting back and letting other people do the talking for a change. Mike Johnson is days away from facing the music as the House of Representatives is set to meet and elect a new speaker for the 119th Congress. The Trump loyalists term as speaker began after he emerged as a consensus candidate last fall, thanks to his ability to win over both moderates and institutionalist Republicans while also maintaining friendly(ish) ties with his partys frenzied right wing. His election occurred after the chamber was shut down for nearly a month following the ouster of Kevin McCarthy, his predecessor, from the speakers chair by a rebellion within the GOP caucus. The congressman from Louisiana has maintained shaky control of his caucus since late October of last year, buoyed in part by a weariness resulting from that chaotic speakerless period. Whether that will continue into the new Congress, however, still remains uncertain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chip Roy, a Republican representative from Texas known for clashing with both leadership and the MAGA wing of his party over spending issues, made clear on Tuesday that Johnson still has work to do in order to win another term. Right now, I dont believe he has the votes on Friday, the congressman told Fox Business. I remain undecided, as do a number of my colleagues, because we saw so many of the failures last year that we are concerned about that might limit or inhibit our ability to advance the President's agenda, Roy added. Chip Roy, left, stands behind Speaker Mike Johnson, center, at a press conference on the Hill. Roy said Tuesday that he is unsure whether to support Johnsons re-election to the speakership for the upcoming term. (AP) His suggestions for Johnsons possible replacement Byron Donalds and Jim Jordan come as no surprise, as both ran unsuccessfully for the position when Johnson clinched the chair. Jordan, an Ohio congressman, in particular is a perennial candidate for the role but has repeatedly failed to win over purple-district Republicans and others aligned with leadership. Jordan, in a Twitter post, indicated his own endorsement of Johnson, though that wouldnt stop him from mounting a bid if it was clear his rival didnt have the votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnsons biggest advantage heading into the vote Friday may be that his critics have yet to come up with a palatable alternative. The power balance has shifted little in the lower chamber of Congress, meaning Republicans will still hold just a single-digit majority in the chamber for the upcoming term. Democrats remain unified in opposition to the election of a GOP speaker, so Johnson will need to unify his caucus in order to keep his job. Donald Trumps endorsement is no small factor either. The support of the president-elect could be enough to move Trump loyalists like Anna Paulina Luna, who told reporters last month that she was undecided, back into Johnsons camp. It could also backfire, making Johnson increasingly reliant on the president-elect (though that ship may already have sailed). Another big advantage: the absence of Matt Gaetz. The former Florida congressman resigned his seat last month just days before the expected release of a report by the House Ethics Committee that found evidence he paid for sex with a minor in 2017, claims Gaetz denies. His resignation was timed with a last-minute bid to become Trumps attorney general. Gaetz was the leader of the group of Republicans who ousted McCarthy last year, and the end of his congressional career moves one chaos agent off the board as Johnson seeks to keep a large and unruly caucus in line. Matt Gaetz led a successful effort to oust Kevin McCarthy before resigning his own seat a year later to head off release of a report which found that he paid a minor for sex in 2017, which he denies. (REUTERS) Marjorie Taylor Greene, who tried unsuccessfully to repeat Gaetzs performance against Johnson earlier this year, is also quietly backing Johnson, according to Punchbowl News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans tied to leadership, especially longer-serving members, are expected to lean on their caucus to avoid the kind of debacle that unfolded this time in early 2023, when McCarthy required more than a dozen votes in the chamber to secure the speakership. I think it would be a huge mistake to challenge [Johnson] and anybody that thinks what we did last term worked well, I think, is delusional, Tom Cole, chairman of the powerful (and highly sought-after) Appropriations panel, told The Independent after a GOP caucus meeting last month. The challenge got us off to a bad start. It bedeviled things. Getting rid of Speaker McCarthy was a dumb idea. The reality is the people that did it had no exit strategy, no alternative, and it plunged the Congress and the country into chaos for weeks. So I hope we learn from that. The Senate remains another obstacle for any incoming GOP speaker. Though it swung back to Republican control with the November elections, it did so only by a few votes far from a filibuster-proof majority. The new leader of the Republican Senate caucus, John Thune, is not expected to present too much of an obstacle to the Trump administrations legislative agenda but will be a hard sell on any of Trumps more outlandish demands, such as his most recent urgings for his party to cause a government shutdown unless Democrats consented to adding language raising the debt ceiling to a short-term funding measure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other Republicans are still casting doubt on Johnsons future in public statements, even with Trumps endorsement at his back. Trumps endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan, Thomas Massie of Kentucky told reporters. He explained his frustrations to The Independent last month: [Johnson]s basically a neocon, and Trump, at least in his campaign, is the opposite of that. ... Speaker Johnson is going to have to do a 180 on a lot of the policy that hes shoved down our throats in the House if hes going to support Trumps mandate. WASHINGTON (NewsNation) President-elect Trump endorsed Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., for another term Monday. However, Johnson faces a challenging reelection fight, as many Republican lawmakers oppose him, potentially stalling the new Congress before it even begins. The House speaker vote scheduled for Friday at noon is shaping up to be a close contest. Johnson will need the support of every Republican to secure the position. However, Rep. Rich McCormick, R-Ga., told NewsNation that he is not yet a yes, signaling potential challenges ahead. He also suggested the vote could spark an important discussion within the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rich McCormick most likely voting for Mike Johnson as speaker I think its very unrealistic that somebody else is gonna be able to come in and grab the reins. Thats why I said most likely he will be the next speaker, but that doesnt mean there cant be conversations. Thats where you have your leverage. This is the one time where that you have before you elect a speaker to get assurances and a plan something makes sense to us, McCormick said. Even with Trumps endorsement, how close could this vote get? To hold onto the gavel, Johnson can afford to lose only one Republican vote assuming all Democrats vote against him and every House member casts a vote. Rep. Tom Massie, R-Ky., has shown opposition, criticizing Johnson in a post on the social media platform X: Weve seen Johnson partner with the Democrats to send money to Ukraine, authorize spying on Americans, and blow the budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other potential no-votes include Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris, who remains undecided, along with former Freedom Caucus Chair Scott Perry, and Congressman Andy Biggs. Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., has also raised concerns, calling on Johnson to present a plan for implementing Trumps agenda. On Monday, she released a list of requirements to earn her vote, including a push for spending audits. GOP lawmakers on the fence ahead of vote Johnson secured a potentially pivotal endorsement from Trump, who wrote in a post on Truth Social, The American people need IMMEDIATE relief from all of the destructive policies of the last Administration. Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson has also received support from billionaire Elon Musk. The House will remain at a standstill until a speaker is elected, and Republicans hope to avoid the turmoil surrounding former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who secured the post after 15 rounds of voting over four days. Trump border czar Tom Homan to migrants: Stay home If Johnson isnt the GOPs pick for speaker, who might step up? So far, no Republican has expressed interest in the role, but a few other names could potentially emerge as alternatives. Rep. Jim Jordan, a popular figure within the party, previously launched a brief but unsuccessful bid for the speakership following Kevin McCarthys ouster. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer might also be considered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, Johnson remains the frontrunner, though uncertainty looms over the upcoming vote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Colorado's second-highest court put attorneys and litigants on notice for the first time on Thursday that they will face consequences if they use artificial intelligence to submit filings with fake citations. A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version. Thank You! As we put a wrap on 2024, a word of thanks for reading Morning Memo and supporting TPM this year. Its been a momentous and difficult year, and theres no immediate relief in sight. We now sit on the brink of a highly uncertain and foreboding era in which Donald Trump had retaken the White House and authoritarianism is on the march globally, putting democracy back on its heels. Later this week a new Republican-controlled Congress will be sworn in, and while its only been six years since the GOP controlled the White House and both chambers of Congress, it feels like a very different time than 2017-2019. Trump Endorses Mike Johnson For Speaker In post on Truth Social, President-elect Donald Trump endorsed Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) to retain the House speakership ahead of a vote by the new House on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not clear whether Trumps support itself an unusual involvement by an incoming president in the affairs of the legislative branch will be enough to bring the most rabid right-wing members into line behind Johnson and avoid an extended, multi-ballot saga like then-Rep. Kevin McCarthy endured in 2023. If Johnson does successfully run the gauntlet of his own conference, he will more dependent on the president than any speaker in modern times. Is The GOP Gonna Take Itself Hostage Over The Debt Ceiling? With complete GOP control in Washington, the dynamics of its debt-ceiling hostage taking have changed pretty dramatically. But its not clear if Republicans themselves recognize that yet. Democrats seem to. Its the bear trap in the bedroom Republicans love to leave around for negotiating purposes, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) told Politico. Now that theyve got the trifecta, it loses some of its negotiating appeal and remains extremely, extremely dangerous. Graves To Resign As US Attorney In DC DC U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, who has led the investigation and prosecution of Jan. 6 rioters since November 2021, will resign his post effective Jan. 16, before Trump takes office. Trump Loses Appeal Of E. Jean Carroll Verdict The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld the smaller of the two verdicts that writer E. Jean Carroll won against Donald Trump for sexual abuse and defamation, rejecting Trumps appeal. Joyce Vance has more. Elon Musk Watch The NYT paints quite the scene at Mar-a-Lago since the election: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Trump has bragged to people that Mr. Musk the worlds richest man is renting one of the residential spaces at Mar-a-Lago. It is unclear how much Mr. Musk will ultimately end up paying for the cottage, which historically has rented for at least $2,000 a night, according to a person with knowledge of the fees. Carter To Lie In State Before State Funeral President Biden declared Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, to be a national day of mourning for the late Jimmy Carter, culminating in a state funeral for the former president at National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. President Biden will deliver a eulogy. The sons of President Gerald Ford and Vice President Walter Mondale will read eulogies written by their fathers, who predeceased Carter. Ahead of the funeral, Carter will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda beginning Jan. 7. Golden Dukes Unveiled! There are no winners, only losers. Most Read Morning Memos Of 2024 We publish Morning Memo at TPM and also post it on Substack, so two separate metrics to consider: On TPM: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Substack: King Coal The International Energy Agencys annual report released this month showed a continuing surge in the consumption of coal worldwide, particularly in China and India. As Javier Blas noted: The IEA now estimates that global coal demand surged to an all-time high of 8,771 million metric tons this year, up 1% from 2023, as electricity demand rose faster than expected. That shouldnt be a surprise: The energy transition requires electrifying everything. Renewables are doing some of that job, but coal remains, the go-to fuel to power the energy transition. Worse, the IEA revised higher its historical data, so the increase comes from a significantly higher baseline than before. The world is consuming a lot more coal than we thought and therefore, its polluting the atmosphere a lot more than we thought, too. Kilauea Summit Eruption Continues A new eruption at the summit of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii began Dec. 23 and has continued intermittently for the past week, with fountaining lava spreading across the crater floor. A live view of the ongoing eruption: See Ya Next Year No Morning Memo on New Years Day. Well resume in earnest on Thursday. Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know! The year is ending with a pair of sharp messages between top advisers to Russian leader Vladimir Putin and President-elect Trump. Trumps choice for special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, slammed a Russian missile and drone attack from last week. Christmas should be a time of peace, yet Ukraine was brutally attacked on Christmas Day, Kellogg wrote Wednesday on social platform X. Launching large-scale missile and drone attacks on the day of the Lords birth is wrong. The world is closely watching actions on both sides. The U.S. is more resolved than ever to bring peace to the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin said in mid-December he was ready and willing to meet with Trump if he wants it. But Russias foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, on Monday rejected proposals floated by Trumps allies to end the war in Ukraine, marking a major setback for the incoming presidents pledge to freeze the conflict. We are not happy, of course, with the proposals made by members of the Trump team to postpone Ukraines admission to NATO for 20 years and to station British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, Lavrov said, responding to leaked reports of Trumps proposals. The comments come as tensions between Russia and the West have been inflamed by an Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash last week that killed 38 people. Putin apologized for the crash apparently caused by Russian air defense systems but stopped short of admitting any responsibility for it. Trump has largely avoided laying out any specific terms or demands for a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, rather promising to leverage his personal relationship with Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky to hash out a deal acceptable to both. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Trump refused to insist on Ukraines victory during a debate in September, he did suggest an ongoing commitment to the country in an interview with Time magazine earlier this month. I want to reach an agreement, and the only way youre going to reach an agreement is not to abandon, he said. Kellogg has proposed pushing Ukraine to the table by threatening to cut off aid and getting Putin to negotiate with the threat of surging weapons. Future NATO membership is among the major sticking points to any negotiations. Some proposals from Trumps advisers reportedly include abandoning Ukraines ambitions of joining NATO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky, however, has made NATO membership a key part of his victory plan, and Ukrainian officials have pushed for security guarantees that are unlikely to happen outside of NATO. Lavrov said Russia would refuse to accept Ukraines NATO membership regardless of the territorial factor. Putin spoke briefly about his upcoming relationship with Trump during his annual press conference on state-sponsored television last week, saying he was ready and willing to meet anytime. What can I offer to the President-elect Trump when we meet? First of all, I dont know when we will meet because he doesnt say anything about it, Putin said Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I havent spoken to him for more than four years, and I am ready for it, of course, at any time, he added. I will be ready for a meeting if he wants it. Putins comments contradict reporting from Bob Woodward that Trump and Putin spoke on numerous occasions after the president-elect exited the White House after his first term. Putin added last week that he and Trump would have a lot to talk about, arguing that Russia had become stronger after three years of a costly war in Ukraine. Why? Because we are becoming a truly sovereign country, he said. We are no longer dependent on anyone. Although Trumps imminent return as commander in chief has raised fear in Ukraine of a U.S. push for ceasefire talks that require territorial or other painful concessions, Zelensky has remained optimistic in public remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a productive conversation, a good conversation, he said of his phone call with Trump on the day after his November election victory. Of course, we cannot yet know what his actions will be. But we do hope that America will become stronger. This is the kind of America that Europe needs. And a strong Europe is what America needs, to my mind, he continued. This is the connection between allies that must be valued and cannot be lost. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Why is there not a rating on this post? There's not enough verified evidence for us to definitively confirm or debunk this rumor. Contact us if you have credible information to share. We'll update this post as necessary. Ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's Jan. 20, 2025, inauguration, Snopes received a number of questions from readers about tickets to specific events that weekend. One claim stated that Trump was charging donors $100,000 to attend a Sunday church service with him the day before the inauguration. A number of posts and articles said Trump was offering a "pay-to-pray" deal to donors who gave $100,000, which included a ticket to the church service. A YouTube video claimed, "Donald Trump's blasphemous 100k "Pay to Pray" Church scam where he is charging people thousands of dollars to pray with him before his inauguration! These idiots will buy anything from [sic] this grifter!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One X user posted: "Trump charging people $100,000 to attend church with him is the most anti-Jesus thing I have ever heard." Trump charging people $100,000 to attend church with him is the most anti-Jesus thing I have ever heard. Deacon Blues (@DeaconBlues0) December 29, 2024 The New York Times, The Hill and Axios reported that the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee was indeed offering this to donors, though the Sunday church service was one of many perks that came with a $100,000 donation. Snopes has not yet been able to independently confirm this, but we have reached out to the Trump transition team for access to a copy of the benefits prospectus and will update this story accordingly. According to The New York Times, a flyer titled "Trump Vance Inaugural Committee Benefits" listed perks for donations up to $1 million and fundraising of up to $2 million. Axios shared a copy of a page in a Dec. 4, 2024, newsletter. According to the document, a donation of $100,000 or fundraising of $200,000 would get a donor two tickets to a victory rally, a cabinet reception, the Sunday church service, the swearing-in ceremony, the parade, the "Starlight Ball" and booking for two rooms at a selected hotel. (Axios) According to The Hill, the "One America, One Light Sunday Service" will be an interfaith service involving U.S. military bands. It is unknown where this service will be held. The schedule was released to donors in early December 2024, with a Jan. 10 deadline to R.S.V.P. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most expensive package includes six tickets to the victory rally, Cabinet reception, church service, candlelight dinner with the Trumps, swearing-in ceremony, parade and ball, and two tickets to dinner with Vice President-elect JD Vance. This is not the first time Trump has fundraised large sums for his inauguration. His first inaugural committee raised $107 million and was investigated by federal prosecutors for illegal foreign donations, resulting in a 12-year prison sentence for one donor. This year, top tech companies including Meta, Amazon, Uber and OpenAI have donated at least $1 million each to Trump's inaugural fund. We found no evidence of a church service being referenced as part of the donor perks in either President Joe Biden's or former President Barack Obama's inaugurations. Trump's last inauguration also did not include a church service among its perks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inaugural committees are allowed to receive money from almost anyone (excluding foreign nationals), including corporations. U.S. President Joe Biden also had big donors ahead of his 2021 inauguration. Biden's inauguration committee brought in around $62 million in total from donors including Bill and Melinda Gates, and corporations like Google, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Pfizer, Bank of America, PepsiCo and Uber, between November 2020 and April 2021. The Biden committee offered big donor perks in 2020, even though inauguration celebrations were mostly virtual because of the coronavirus pandemic. Packages included invitations to a "virtual concert during inauguration week" and the virtual inauguration, as well as virtual briefings with inaugural committee leaders. Similarly, in 2012, Obama's inauguration committee raised around $43 million. According to a 2012 report in The New York Times, donor perks for Obama's second inauguration included "tickets to a 'benefactors reception,' a children's concert, a candlelight celebration at the National Building Museum, two reserved parade bleacher seats and four tickets to the president's official inaugural ball." The celebrations were toned down from Obama's first inauguration in 2009, though at that time he refused corporate donations entirely. Sources: "Inauguration Packages up to $1M+." Axios, 4 Dec. 2024, https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-am-e467ee50-b1b8-11ef-8048-7978f0c1a10a.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Corporations Hoping to Get on Trump's Good Side Are Donating Big Bucks to His Inauguration." MSNBC.Com, 26 Dec. 2024, https://www.msnbc.com/top-stories/latest/trump-inauguration-donations-corporations-rcna185478. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "Funding Inaugural Committee Activities." FEC.Gov, https://www.fec.gov/help-candidates-and-committees/presidential-transition-and-inauguration/funding-inaugural-committee-activities/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Gangitano, Alex. "Trump Team Outlines Inauguration Benefits for Donors." The Hill, 3 Dec. 2024, https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5020239-trump-team-outlines-inauguration-benefits-for-donors/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Greenwood, Max. "Biden Inaugural Committee Raised $62M with Big Sums from Billionaires, Corporations." The Hill, 21 Apr. 2021, https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/549476-biden-inaugural-committee-raised-61m-with-big-sums-from-billionaires/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement INAUGURATION TRUMP 11 29 2016. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/3227450-INAUGURATION-TRUMP-11-29-2016/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Joe Biden's Inaugural Committee Is Offering VIP Donor Packages For As Much as $1M for Corporations & $500k for Individuals. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20428535-joe-bidens-inaugural-committee-is-offering-vip-donor-packages-for-as-much-as-1m-for-corporations-500k-for-individuals/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. "Pay-to-Pray": Trump Reportedly Charges Supporters $100K to Attend Church Service with Him - Raw Story. https://www.rawstory.com/rs-exclusive/pay-to-pray-trump-reportedly-charging-supporters-100000-to-attend-church-service-with/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Presidential Inauguration Committee Donation Form. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/536326-picdonationformv8/. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schleifer, Theodore. "Trump Donors Who Give at Least $1 Million or Raise $2 Million Get Inaugural Access." The New York Times, 4 Dec. 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/03/us/politics/trump-donors-inauguration-access.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Schouten, Fredreka. "Corporate Interests Commit Millions to Celebrate Trump's Inauguration | CNN Politics." CNN, 26 Dec. 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/26/politics/trump-inauguration-corporate-donors/index.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Stolberg, Sheryl Gay. "For Corporate Donors, Inauguration Details." The New York Times, 8 Dec. 2012. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/09/us/politics/obama-team-outlines-four-corporate-donor-packages-for-inauguration.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. Vogel, Kenneth P., and Eric Lipton. "Despite Scaled-Back Plans, Biden Inauguration Offers Perks to Major Donors." The New York Times, 16 Dec. 2020. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/16/us/despite-scaled-back-plans-biden-inauguration-offers-perks-to-major-donors.html. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024. With Donald Trumps re-inauguration as president less than three weeks away, Chief Justice John Roberts is warning against calls to resist or defy the Supreme Courts decisions. Roberts made no direct reference to the president-elect, but with Trump vowing to swiftly enact dozens of sweeping policy moves of questionable legality, he seemed to be on the receiving end of the chief justices admonition in his year-end report released Tuesday. Every Administration suffers defeats in the court system sometimes in cases with major ramifications for executive or legislative power or other consequential topics. Nevertheless, for the past several decades, the decisions of the courts, popular or not, have been followed, Roberts wrote in the annual message. Within the past few years, however, elected officials from across the political spectrum have raised the specter of open disregard for federal court rulings. These dangerous suggestions, however sporadic, must be soundly rejected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts did not name any recent officeholders or specific episodes. However, following a Trump-appointed judges decision last year revoking approval of the abortion drug mifepristone, a couple of Democratic lawmakers and one Republican urged the Biden administration to ignore the decision. The White House rejected those suggestions and instead won a Supreme Court stay allowing the pill to remain on the market. Biden also faced criticism and accusations of defiance for his attempts to preserve his student-debt forgiveness policies after the Supreme Court ruled that hed overstepped his legal authority in trying to provide relief to former students struggling with large loans. Roberts warning about defiance was particularly notable since Democratic lawmakers and Trump critics from various points on the political spectrum have predicted that the Supreme Courts decision in July granting Trump broad immunity from criminal prosecution would embolden Trump and future presidents to engage in legally dubious behavior. The chief justice authored the majority opinion in that case. During Trumps first term, he was accused of ignoring court decisions limiting spending related to his signature project of a border wall with Mexico, although the Supreme Court allowed him to continue to tap the disputed funding and the issue became moot with Bidens election in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also frequently leveled personal attacks at judges who issued rulings blocking his policies, leading to an unusual public rebuke from Roberts in 2018. Roberts returned to that topic Tuesday, arguing that inflammatory rhetoric about judicial rulings is responsible for an uptick in threats against judges and can even lead to physical violence. Public officials certainly have a right to criticize the work of the judiciary, but they should be mindful that intemperance in their statements when it comes to judges may prompt dangerous reactions by others, the chief justice wrote. Roberts also offered his most detailed and effusive support for laws limiting publication of information deemed personal about judges and their families. Congress passed one such measure in 2022, despite warnings from civil-liberties and transparency advocates that the legislation might violate the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am grateful to the many federal and state legislators who have stepped forward to sponsor bills shielding judges personal identifying information from the public domain, Roberts wrote, suggesting that judges addresses and office phone numbers should be considered private. Roberts also warned that foreigners are deliberately sowing misinformation about the judicial system, including by using bots to mischaracterize rulings and foment discord within our democracy. Because these actors distort our judicial system in ways that compromise the publics confidence in our processes and outcomes, we must as a Nation publicize the risks and take all appropriate measures to stop them, the chief justice declared. In his year-end message, the chief justice offered thanks to Congress for increased security funding for federal courts. The slimmed-down government funding bill Congress passed earlier this month contains about $25.6 million in additional funding for protection of Supreme Court justices homes. The strength of President-elect Trumps influence over the razor-thin House Republican majority will get another major test Friday, when Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) aims to be reelected as Speaker. Even with Trumps endorsement of Johnson on Monday He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN, Trump said of Johnson the Speaker remains in a precarious position ahead of the vote on the opening day of the new Congress. Several House Republicans have continued to withhold support for the Louisiana Republican despite the stamp of approval from the president-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Republican, Rep. Thomas Massie (Ky.), has pledged to vote for a candidate other than Johnson, citing anger with how the Speaker handled government funding, Ukraine aid and other issues. And Massie signaled in a post on the social platform X on Monday that Trumps endorsement is not changing his mind. I respect and support President Trump, but his endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan. Weve seen Johnson partner with the democrats to send money to Ukraine, authorize spying on Americans, and blow the budget, Massie wrote. Johnson can only afford one Republican defection in the Jan. 3 Speaker election, assuming all members are present and voting for a candidate. The Houses incoming 215 Democrats are all expected to vote for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), and Republicans are expected to have 219 members in attendance that day. Several other Republicans are not explicitly opposing Johnson but stopping short of saying they will vote for him in light of the statement from Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) said Monday on Fox News that he still wanted to speak with Johnson, because there are some issues I think that need to be worked out, specifically dealing with the budget issues. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) posted on X that although she understands why Trump is endorsing Johnson, we still need to get assurances that @SpeakerJohnson wont sell us out to the swamp. Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.), the chair of the House Freedom Caucus who said after the House passed a controversial stopgap funding bill that he was undecided on what leadership should look like in the 119th Congress, remained undecided on the Speakership even after Trumps endorsement, according to a spokesperson. As he aims to shore up support, Johnson has been making calls and reaching out to those who have expressed skepticism about his Speakership, according to a source familiar with his activities. A spokesperson for Trump did not respond to requests for comment about why the president-elect announced his support for Johnson on Monday, or if he would personally reach out to GOP holdouts something House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) had urged Trump to do during a Sunday Fox Business appearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnsons handling of a bumpy, end-of-year, short-term funding package not only fueled skepticism of his leadership from members, but from Trump himself. Two sources close to Trumps orbit said the president-elect was frustrated by how the recent government funding battle, which concluded without a debt ceiling increase that Trump demanded, played out, and it led to discussions about whether he would back Johnson at all. But it also showed the limits of Trumps influence over congressional Republicans. Trump made a last-minute demand for Republicans to raise the debt ceiling as part of the bill, but a number of House Republicans are opposed to raising the debt ceiling without also implementing spending cuts. Thirty-eight House Republicans voted against a version of the stopgap that included a debt limit hike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the overwhelming Republican desire to quickly get to work on Trumps legislative agenda could be a very powerful force in helping Johnson keep hold of the gavel. The same sources who said Trump was frustrated with Johnson noted there was no clear alternative to the current Speaker, and they argued a messy fight over the gavel would threaten to delay the Jan. 6 certification of his victory and potentially undermine Trumps legislative agenda in the early weeks of his presidency. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Trumps initial pick for attorney general who withdrew from consideration amid misconduct allegations, posted on X that Trumps endorsement of Johnson was art of the deal level practicality. We could never have held up McCarthy two years ago for concessions if a Trump certification hung in the balance. Now, it does, Gaetz posted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Trumps endorsement, other prominent conservatives are expected to rally to Johnsons side. Elon Musk, who has proven to be an influential figure on Capitol Hill in recent weeks, posted Monday on X that Johnson has his full support. Matthew Boyle, the connected Washington bureau chief for the right-wing Breitbart News Network who had advocated for replacing Johnson in recent weeks, compared Trumps support for Johnson to his nominations for Cabinet positions. Trumps endorsement of Mike Johnson for Speaker should be treated like all other nominations and appointments. He deserves to have his choice. Plain and simple, agree or disagree, its Trumps decision. Hes the president. He won in the face of adversity, Boyle posted on X. So everyone on the right should do everything they can to help Trump. I have my disagreements with Johnson on a number of fronts, but the president has spoken. Still, Trumps past endorsements in fraught Speaker races have not always been decisive or managed to sway members who are not closely aligned with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump publicly backed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) even before Republicans won control of the House in the 2022 midterms, but McCarthy struggled to secure the votes needed among GOP members. Even after Trump reiterated his support for McCarthy after three failed votes, it took 12 more rounds of voting before the Californian secured the gavel. The president-elect waded into the GOPs Speaker battle in October 2023 after McCarthy was ousted, with mixed results. He initially endorsed his ally, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), but Jordan could not garner enough support from more moderate members who opposed his candidacy. Trump eventually backed Johnson as Republicans rallied around him to replace McCarthy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. If the Free Press opinion page gave an award for "elicited the most letters to the editor," contributing columnist Jeff Wattrick would win, hands down. Wattrick, who built a dedicated following through the now-defunct blog Dyspathy, has mastered the art of being both provocative and smart: He may tick you off, but he's always got a point. This year, Wattrick turned his pen to subjects ranging from transit to affordable housing to the upcoming Trump presidency. What Trump has told us the truth about, and why I've made peace with it "Voters didnt make a mistake. They werent misled or duped by Fox News or the patriarchy or any other boogeyman. The election was a clear-eyed choice made by adult citizens in the cold light of day. As much as I may disagree with their choices, I have an obligation to make peace with it. Otherwise, any belief in liberal democracy is fraudulent. "That doesn't mean Im optimistic about whats next. My instincts tell me the next four years will be rough for all of us. Im content to close the blinds and weather any potential storms on the horizon. I have no stomach for any 'resistance' in Trumps second term. Lets skip the Handmaids Tale iconography, or calling him '45' to avoid saying 'president,' please. ... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If Trump guts rules protecting overtime pay something he admits he doesnt like sure, blame those 'white working class' voters who liked that Trump tells it like it is." "But if Trump sends deportation wagons to communities like Hamtramck, thats on Mayor Amer Ghalib, who seems to prefer hating gay people to protecting his residents. "If his administration passes a national abortion ban, blame it on the women who desire reproductive rights and a Trump presidency at the same time. If Trump does partner with Benjamin Netanyahu to 'finish the job' and level Gaza, thats on leftists who chose to stay home because of the false grievance that Kamala Harris was merely a lesser of two evils. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if Trump upends the global economy with tariffs, thats on professional class voters who wanted lower business taxes above all else. ... Making peace with Trumps election, and accepting responsibility for it, is the one purely moral act we have at our disposal to change, not just the occupants of the White House, but the climate that brought us to this moment in history." Read the full column here Michigan has civil rights. Texas has affordable housing. What if we could have both? "Michigan should be more like Texas. This is probably shocking to hear, if you like the way Michigan has become a kind of midwestern progressive bulwark under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Democratic legislative majority in Lansing: Michigan has enshrined reproductive rights in the state constitution, expanded the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to protect LBGTQ+ individuals and provides a free school lunch to all Michigan children for what amounts to a rounding error in the states $84 billion budget. Michigans Democratic majority has also moved forward on efforts to expand renewable energy production, enact gun reform laws, and make childcare more universal all much-needed steps forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Lone Star State, in contrast, has a long-standing reputation as an ornery, reactionary place. Texan John Nance Garner was an anti-New Dealer as Franklin Roosevelts vice-president. Today, Texas gives us Alex Jones paranoid delusions and draconian anti-abortion laws. And, to paraphrase Billy Martin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott is a born liar, while attorney general Ken Paxton was impeached. "So, what lessons can Texas offer us, besides the fact that Larry McMurtry is arguably a better novelist than Wyandotte native Thomas McGuane, and Townes Van Zandt is an infinitely better musician than Romeo native son Robert Ritchie? "Quite a bit." Read the full column here Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should Michigan be more like Texas? Readers absolutely do not agree. Transit in metro Detroit isn't just about transportation, it's about jobs "For SMART bus system General Manager Dwight Ferrell, the value of transit isnt just visible at bus stops or on service maps. "Sometimes you see it in the quality of cafeteria eggs. "Ferrell, who joined SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) in September 2021, spent a lot of time at the medical facilities that treated his late mother toward the end of her life. And he noticed something: The more accessible a hospital was to transit routes, the more amenities it offered to patients and their families. ... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first hospital, the cafeteria closed at 5 p.m. The second hospital, the cafeteria closed at 8 p.m. The [third hospital], it was open 22 hours and made omelets to order. It had all kinds of transit. "Omelets may seem like a superficial way to judge hospital quality, but what the food service visibly demonstrated to Ferrell was the hospitals ability to attract and retain staff, not simply doctors and nurses, but orderlies, technicians, facilities and cafeteria workers. And that had an impact on medical care: At the third hospital, better staffing meant a shorter wait time for his mother to get a room." Read the full column here Mayor Mike Duggan smiles as he takes a photo with a passenger inside a bus heading to the Detroit Department of Transportation's (DDOT) newest transit center, the Jason Hargrove Transit Center, at the State Fairground on Saturday, May 11, 2024. Michigan housing isnt affordable. Heres how we can fix it. We have a housing affordability crisis. To be more accurate, we have a housing supply crisis that has created a housing affordability crisis. A 2023 Zillow study concluded the U.S. is short 4.3 million homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed the issue during her 2024 State of the State: The rent is too damn high, and we dont have enough damn housing! Our response will be simple: Build, baby, build! It sounds like a simple enough proposition. Unfortunately, decades of obstruction from not-in-my-backyard" NIMBYists and racially motivated regulations blocking new multifamily and affordable housing have created a climate in which building the supply of housing demanded by the market is easier said than done." Read the full column here Crisis' at the US southern border isn't a security threat. It's a labor issue. A low-key civil war is brewing at the southern border between Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and the Biden Administration. ... Neither side seems willing to stand down, though unless Texas secedes, it seems likely the feds will ultimately win this fight. Regardless, the 'crisis at the border' will remain. The underlying issue isnt lax border security. The real issue is that the United States is an attractive destination for people around the world. ... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Instead of approaching immigration as a security problem, we need to treat it as a labor issue. "Despite the delusions of the far right, migrants crossing the southern border arent some elaborate fifth column of invading soldiers. Immigrants come to the U.S. to find work, reconnect with their families, or create a better life for their children. Unfortunately, this evidence-free assumption that bad people (with vague and undefined malevolent intentions) are flooding our border has hijacked any rational approach to lawfully incorporating immigrants into American society. "Our nations border and immigration challenges require a different approach than the usual fights over the Border Patrol or who gets drivers licenses. Instead of approaching immigration as a security problem, we need to treat it as a labor issue." Read the full column here This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: From Trump to immigration to housing, he covered it all | Opinion The News US President-elect Donald Trumps plans to label Mexican drug cartels terrorist organizations could open the door to US military attacks on Mexican soil, analysts warned. Trump said that he would immediately make the designation upon becoming president, putting cartels alongside organizations such as Hamas and Boko Haram. Doing so would give authorities powers to stop money flows to cartels, but also would provide the legal framework to permit unilateral attacks in Mexico, one academic told El Pais, adding he would be unsurprised to learn about an American missile hitting a methamphetamine laboratory in Badiraguato. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned against the plan, saying Mexico is a free, sovereign, independent country and we do not accept interference. China and Japan have stepped up engagement in recent months, but analysts say the trajectory of relations will largely come down to Tokyo's political situation and its ties with the incoming Donald Trump administration. Last week, when Takeshi Iwaya made his first visit to China as Japanese foreign minister, the two sides agreed to increase exchanges, to make it easier for Chinese to visit Japan, and to restart dialogue on security and diplomacy as well as talks on Japanese beef and milled rice imports. It followed a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Apec summit in Peru last month, when they agreed to work on "constructive and stable" ties, and talks between Ishiba and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Asean summit in Laos in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is also said to be planning a Japan trip in February for an economic dialogue last held in 2019 and could extend an invitation for Ishiba to visit China, Japanese news agency Kyodo reported, citing diplomatic sources. Ishiba told Japanese media over the weekend that frequent engagement was needed to build trust between the two nations. While security remains a stumbling block, analysts say Tokyo's recent engagement with Beijing is a response to uncertainty over Washington's commitment to allies and the potential harm to Japanese interests when Trump returns to the White House next month. Takeshi Iwaya (left) in talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi (right) in Beijing. Photo: Kyodo alt=Takeshi Iwaya (left) in talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi (right) in Beijing. Photo: Kyodo> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ishiba will maintain some level of outreach to Beijing as a hedge against otherwise one-sided, burdensome demands from Washington," said Walter Hatch, a professor of government at Colby College in Maine and an Asian politics expert. Japan has depended on the US for security under a defence pact established after World War II - a commitment Trump questioned during his first term, when he called for Tokyo to pay more for US troops stationed on Japanese soil. Trump is expected to again apply pressure on that front and has also threatened to impose higher tariffs on imports from China and other countries. "With 'America first' Trumpism on the rise in Washington, both Tokyo and Beijing have a strong interest in building better ties to protect against unilateralism," Hatch said. Meanwhile Ishiba wants to "rebalance Japan's relations with the world's two superpowers, asserting a bit more autonomy in the otherwise highly subordinate alliance with the US". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With Trump about to take office, Ishiba wants to signal that Tokyo will not be bullied into deals with Washington that would undermine Japanese interests," Hatch said. "He wants the president-elect to know that Japan has other options." But it will involve mending fences with Beijing. Relations between the Asian neighbours have been strained in recent years over Japan's wartime aggression, their territorial disputes in the East China Sea, and the issue of Taiwan. At the same time, Japan has moved closer to the US amid the escalating rivalry between Beijing and Washington and concerns over China's growing military might - and its activities close to Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Zhang Yilun, a research associate at the Washington-based Institute for China-America Studies (ICAS), Beijing has an opportunity to improve relations with both Tokyo and Seoul. Japan, South Korea and the United States held a summit at Camp David last year to counter China. Zhang said that with Ishiba now in power in Japan, Joe Biden leaving office in less than a month and the impeachment of South Korean leader Yoon Suk-yeol, the consensus struck at Camp David could be in question under the new Trump administration. "For China, this will be a particularly good time to repair relations with Japan so that another Camp David trilateral summit will not happen in the same form soon," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zhang Yun, an associate professor of international relations at Niigata University in Japan, said Ishiba had pushed for a more equitable relationship with the US, and more autonomous ties with China. "Sino-Japanese relations often show initial signs of improvement but it's a struggle to maintain momentum," he said, adding that Iwaya's visit to China was a positive development but it remained to be seen whether the two sides could grasp the momentum. Zhang from ICAS agreed. "It is too soon to say that these outcomes [from last week's talks] will produce concrete results that fundamentally repair bilateral relations," he said. "But these bilateral mechanisms will certainly build mutual trust through constant and candid exchanges, and will deliver more tangible outcomes as they are ... focused on specific issues." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Japan, Ishiba's political base is unstable. He heads a minority government after his Liberal Democratic Party and its junior coalition partner the Komeito lost their majority in the lower house of parliament. Ishiba is walking a political tightrope ahead of the upper house election in July - another electoral defeat would bring calls for accountability, and it could force him to resign as prime minister. According to Zhang from Niigata University, another challenge to any thaw in ties with China was likely to come from Trump. "If Trump opts to comprehensively pressure and contain China, he is likely to require Tokyo to obediently follow suit," he said. "In that scenario, it's uncertain whether Ishiba would be able to resist US pressure and continue to pursue a more autonomous approach towards dealing with China." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lian Degui, director of the Centre for Japanese Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, said Ishiba was determined to boost engagement with China, and that push would continue. "If Ishiba did not have such a strong desire, he could have waited for Trump to take office to see how the US reacted before making any moves to improve Sino-Japanese relations at this time," he said. His approach to Taiwan has also been different from that of his predecessors, observers say. Ishiba visited the self-ruled island in August before he became prime minister but has refrained from the explicit support shown by other Japanese leaders. He also said the Taiwan situation was "more complex" than when Japan and China normalised relations in 1972. Hatch said Ishiba's position on Taiwan was more nuanced and less slavishly pro-US than previous governments under Fumio Kishida and the late Shinzo Abe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing views Taiwan as part of China to be united, by force if necessary. Japan, like most other countries including the US, does not recognise the island as independent. Washington opposes any attempt to take Taiwan by force and is legally bound to supply weapons to the island. Tokyo has also intensified engagement with the island in recent years, stoking tensions with Beijing. Zhang from ICAS said given that the US commitment to Taiwan was not clear under Trump 2.0, "it is wise not to attract too much attention to the issue of Taiwan since it will be Japan, not the US, who will be at the forefront in a potential Taiwan contingency". This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright 2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Massive 13ft waves are battering the coastlines of Peru and Ecuador as of December 30. Footage captured in Piura, Peru on December 27 shows the high swells tossing boats around the water and causing some to sink. Authorities blame climate change for the unusually powerful waves. At least 2 people have died in Ecuador. They are expected to continue until New Year's Day. MALVERN, Ark. From special forces to volunteer legions, and most recently U24, the official fundraising platform of Ukraine, two Malvern mailmen and veterans are making the difference they hoped to when Russia attacked nearly three years ago. KARK 4 News first introduced National Guard Veteran Jonathan Monty Montgomery and Army Veteran Douglas Barnett in 2022 when they raised $15,000 to help forces fighting for Ukraines freedom. They never stopped, and have now raised over half a million dollars. Malvern veterans use meme to raise $15K for Ukraine defense Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both said this was not their first thought of what to do when they saw Russia attack. We talked about going over there and volunteering but what we would have come back to was divorces and no houses, no career, Monty said. So we helped in this way and were probably doing more good this way than if we were over there freezing to death in a trench over there, Barnett added. The sets of 100 numbered challenge coins they have printed have been auctioned online on Montys X account for up to $3,500 for just one coin. Monty believes they have shipped coins to between 30 to 40 counties, and half of the U.S. states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All that money helps the military units purchase what they need including medical supplies or four-wheelers evacuating wounded soldiers from the front lines to safety. Biden announces nearly $2.5 billion more in military aid for Ukraine From signed flags, thank you videos, plaques, war memorabilia and other recognitions, the two have received national and international honors for their support. Still, with time they often become somber reminders of whats at stake. Some of the people weve gotten to know on phone calls and messages have died and gotten killed, Barnett explained. However, they want anyone to know any idea however silly at first, like their first coin of a cartoon dog dressed as a soldier, can make a big difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It feels good. It takes away that feeling of not being able to do something, Barnett said. Theres no excuse you can always find a way to help somehow, Monty concluded. Hundreds of soldiers freed in the latest prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine The next auction the two are holding is expected to start the second week of January. They will auction 10 coins a week. Both say as long as there is a need and a desire from others to help, they will keep this effort going, but they hope the conflict ends before they reach the next fundraising milestone. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. You are the owner of this article. Two men have been charged in connection with the death of a New Jersey man after a shooting in Dorchester earlier this month. Darius Powell, 25, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and Daiquan Miller, 25, of Dorchester were arrested on Tuesday for the death of 37-year-old Keith Cousin of Bayonne, NJ. The shooting occurred Monday evening, December 9, when officers responded to reports of gunshots at 114 Devon Street. When officers arrived, they found Cousins with multiple gunshot wounds. Cousins was pronounced deceased at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boston Police Department is still reviewing the case and circumstances surrounding the incident. Powell and Miller will be arraigned at a later time. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Two men have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a deadly shooting in 2023. Riyadh Pate and Lawrence Davis, two of four suspect who broke into an apartment on Superior Avenue in June 2023 were both sentenced to eight years in prison. Plane makes emergency landing at Dayton airport after smoke During the break-in last summer, a shoot-out occurred, and one of Davis and Pates associates was killed. The two men were charged with the murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, both men were acquitted of several charges due to insufficient evidence. They both entered pleas for the remaining charges before trial was set to begin. Both individuals pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter and two counts of felonious assault each. The state sentenced them both to eight years in prison due to the violent nature of the crime, and the fact the defendants both had prior histories. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Two people were shot, including one severely injured, in a Macon neighborhood off Coliseum Drive Monday afternoon, according to the Bibb County Sheriffs Office. A 47-year-old man was taken by ambulance to a medical facility to be treated for a gunshot wound and was in critical condition Monday evening, according to the sheriffs office. Deputies were dispatched to a 911 call regarding shots fired within the 500 block of Jones Avenue and Main Street, which is near Coliseum Drive, the news release said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies later learned a 25-year-old woman was taken to a medical facility via a personal vehicle. She was suffering from a gunshot wound and listed in stable condition, the news release said. Investigators were still working to determine what led to the shooting. Deputies urged anyone with related information to call the sheriffs office at 478-751-7500, or Macon Regional Crimestoppers at 1-877-68CRIME. BOSTON (WWLP) Top democrats on Beacon Hill reached an agreement on two healthcare bills on Friday night and voted to send them to the governors desk on Monday afternoon. Top democrats on Beacon Hill reached an agreement on two healthcare bills that they will be voting on in sessions early this week. These two bills deal with pharmaceutical drug reform and hospital oversight reform and aim to increase drug and healthcare affordability and strengthen market transparency to allow for better state oversight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Speaker Ron Mariano had named both bills a priority at the beginning of the session. After these bills moved on Friday night, the speaker released a statement, saying these bills are marking a critical step forward in the ongoing effort to ensure that every Massachusetts resident has access to quality, affordable health care services. The oversight bill comes after the collapse of the Steward Healthcare system, which resulted in the closure of two hospitals and the sale of six others, and primarily affected eastern Massachusetts. The senate president released a statement addressing the importance of this bill for hospital systems across the state. The market oversight bill begins to address the damaging role of private equity and put important initial guardrails in place to attempt to prevent another crisis like the one faced by Steward, said Senate President Karen Spilka. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The compromise version of this bill has been in the works since July when the formal session came to an end and the informal session began. These bills passed just in timeas Tuesday is the final day of the 193rd General Court. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Two women were in the hospital on New Years Eve after a large fire broke out at an apartment building in Northwest D.C., leaving 35 people without a place to live. Vito Maggiolo, a spokesperson for DCFD, told DC News Now at the scene that just before 1 a.m. on Dec. 31, crews were called to an apartment fire in the 1400 block of Chapin St. He said the call came in for several people trapped in the building. DC bans right turn on red starting January, only half will be enforced Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When crews arrived, flames could be seen coming through the roof of the four-story building, leaving thick smoke billowing over the area. The fire department said firefighters rescued several people, including two women who were taken to the hospital. Officials said one woman was admitted with serious injuries and the other had critical injuries. At 1 oclock in the morning, in this large building, most people were asleep and it is very challenging to get everyone out safely, but that was accomplished, said Maggiolo. DC Circulator service ends Tuesday Nearly two hours into the attack, officials said most of the fire was out, and crews were managing hot spots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maggiolo said that everyone who lived in the building was displaced. Buses were requested to take families to the Columbia Heights Recreation Center, where the American Red Cross assisted them. So thankful that Thomas and Sarah werent here, said Suzy Brown. Browns daughter and son-in-law live in the building. So sad for the people at work because its just destroyed. In an update, the American Red Cross said it is assisting nine families impacted by the fire; however, the organization noted that the number of families receiving help may increase over the coming days. Red Cross volunteers are helping the displaced residents with financial assistance, mental health support and the replacement of essential lost items such as eyeglasses and medications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its okay; theres very little damage, said Daniel Block, who lives in Maryland but owns a condo in the building next to where the fire occurred. There were some doors that were kicked in, I think the firefighters were just checking to make sure everybody was okay. Firefighters said residents may be able to go back into their homes Thursday to gather their remaining property. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Dec. 30GRAND FORKS Two stores in the Columbia Mall are scheduled to close their doors in January, according to store managers. The last day of business for American Eagle Outfitters will be Jan. 19. Tradehome Shoes will close at the end of the business day on Jan. 25. "You never want to see a store close," said Andrew Millage, manager of the American Eagle Outfitters store at West Acres in Fargo, who was working at the Grand Forks store Saturday, Dec. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The store, which has been open in Columbia Mall for 30 years, "is not closing due to sales or the lack thereof," said Millage, who's been with American Eagle Outfitters for a few months. The store has been operating in West Acres since the Fargo mall opened in 1972, he said. A Facebook post noted that American Eagle Outfitters requested the air conditioning in the store be fixed, but mall management responded that that was the store's responsibility. Also on Facebook, Mayor Brandon Bochenski responded to a question about what could be done about businesses closing in town: " ... We have steady growth which is attractive to retail, if we can have a willing partner in the mall, that would help. For now we have to promote shopping local and seek local ownership in the mall that has interest in the success of our community and not a tax write off." The American Eagle Outfitters company, which operates stores nationwide, "is an outstanding company to work for," Millage said, noting the "family-life balance" is exceptionally favorable and "this company is well-managed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pending closure of the Grand Forks store, with roughly eight to 10 employees, "is hard on all of us," said Stephanie Larson, of Grand Forks, an employee. She started working full time at the store in September, and is hoping to find another job here, she said. DuWayne Johnson, who manages the Tradehome Shoes store, said, referring to the retail business, "Things are different these days, and people don't shop at the mall anymore." As a company, "Tradehome is doing great," Johnson said, "but, unfortunately, this is one of those locations that is not doing so hot anymore." Since he moved to Grand Forks, he's noticed that the city as a whole has seen business vitality decline, he said. "I've seen a lot of places leaving, I've seen restaurants and other places close. We need some things to change to bring people back." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I love what I do; I love helping people out," said Johnson, who's been managing the store for about a year-and-a-half, after moving from Missouri. Altogether, he's been with Tradehome Shoes for about three years, and plans to relocate to another one of the company's 135 nationwide stores, he said. The company is "growing and expanding." The Tradehome Shoes store began operating in Grand Forks in the 1970s, but started at a different location, Johnson said. "The community isn't getting involved (in shopping at the mall) as much as it used to," Johnson said. "Online shopping is such a big thing these days. While he does understand the lure of shopping online in the comfort of home, he said, it leads to the closing of stores, like his, in the mall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The stores, the community, the mall management we all have to work together," Johnson said. The local Tradehome Shoes store has provided "great service," he said, but "people don't shop out anymore. We finished strong, and did what we could." Two men are facing charges for allegedly robbing a convenience store at gunpoint on Monday night. Michael Dacey, 41, of Wakefield, and Corey Roy, 40, of Charlestown were both charged with armed and masked robbery. Dacey was also charged with providing police with a false name during his arrest. Officers responding to 134 Bunker Hill Avenue around 6:17 p.m. for a report of an armed robbery were told two masked suspects entered the store, brandished a firearm, and made off with an unknown amount of cash, according to Boston Police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were no reports of any injuries. The suspects reportedly fled the area on Monument Street towards OReilly Way. After reviewing security camera footage from the store, detectives broadcasted the suspects descriptions and sent a picture of them to officers in the area. Investigators determined the two suspects were last seen running from the Bunker Hill Development towards 85 Medford Street. While officers patrolled the area, one of the suspects was seen leaving an apartment, where he was apprehended. Police say they then knocked and announced their presence on the apartment door, where they arrested the second suspect as he answered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police secured the apartment pending a search warrant. Both Dacey and Roy are expected to be arraigned in Charlestown District Court. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW NEW MEXICO (KRQE) With temperatures getting lower, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is urging migrants to not cross the southern border. The El Paso sector said there have 23 migrant deaths so far from dangerous freezing conditions. Story continues below Its a warning for migrants trying to enter the United States through the New Mexico and southwest Texas border. U.S. Border Patrol within the El Paso sector said 23 migrants died in the last four months from dangerous conditions. Winter months bring freezing temperatures, migrants attempting to cross the border illegally, they face life-threatening conditions, said Claudio Herrera, spokesperson for U.S. Border Patrol, El Paso sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just last year, Border Patrol rescued 980 migrants suffering from frostbite and hypothermia. Agent Herrera said the majority are from warmer southern countries and so far, this year they have saved 177 migrants. They dont have this type of temperatures. Theyre not usedto them and of course, multiple times they are not wearing the proper clothes to be walking in the desert and stuff like that, said Herrera. According to Border Patrol, one factor that leads migrants to these situations is transnational criminal organizations that smuggle and exploit them. The transnational crime organizations are telling the migrants to do, where to go, where to cross. They dont care about the conditions of the migrants themselves, they just care about making profit out of them, said Herrera. The El Paso sector said that 176 migrants died last year because of illegal smuggling. Agent Herrera said they encountered around 270 to 280 illegal migrants daily just in December. If youre thinking about crossing the border or youre planning on bringing somebody across, a family member that you have know that wants to come into the United States and look for better life. Advise them to think twice, think three times or even more but do not cross illegally, said Herrera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Border Patrol said another factor for migrant deaths is by vehicle, especially during the holidays. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. The U.S. Central Command reported Tuesday that the U.S. Navy and Air Force had targeted and destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site, seven cruise missiles, and dozens of drones over the Red Sea. CENTCOM was also able to locate a Houthi command and control facility, weapon production and storage facilities, and a coastal radar site, which had been used in Houthi operations, including in attacks against U.S. warships and merchant vessels. There were no damages or injuries to U.S. personnel or equipment, according to the command. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam made a statement after the second day of strikes, calling them a blatant violation of the sovereignty of an independent state. The Houthis have been attempting to enforce a naval blockade on Israel by attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea, per Al Jazeera. Iran-backed Houthis consider Israel to be an enemy and have been firing rockets at Israel and hijacking commercial ships in the Red Sea for over a year, according to BBC. As the University of Navarra described, Houthis tactics have involved firing ballistic missiles and drones against maritime traffic in the Red Sea, as well as forcibly boarding and taking control of ships through the use of helicopters and speedboats. However, while the Houthis claimed to attack ships as a naval blockade on Israel, they have launched assaults on ships passing through the Red Sea with no affiliation to Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roughly 15% of global trade, 10% of oil supply and 8% of liquified natural gas pass through the Red Sea, according to the International Monetary Fund. The U.S. strikes are a part of CENTCOMs effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region, per Central Commands press release. Dec. 30A new federal law signed Monday by President Joe Biden expands funding for research and other federal support for autism over the next five years. Called the Autism CARES Act of 2024, the legislation continues efforts begun when the first CARES Act was passed in 2006 to help improve ways to diagnose and treat autism, which affects about one in every 36 people. U.S. Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, introduced the $2 billion bill, which increases funding by about $200 million over the next five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cathy Dionne, executive director of the Autism Society of Maine, said the funding will provide crucial stability for ongoing scientific research while also expanding efforts to understand autism. "We still don't know what causes autism," Dionne said in a phone interview Monday. "But we know so much more than we used to, and how important an early diagnosis is. If we can recognize when people have autism, we can determine how to intervene and get people the specialized programs that they need." Dionne said she's pleased the law includes funding for communication devices such as computer tablets that are designed to help nonverbal people with autism communicate with others. She said that will enable some to join the workforce, for instance, if they can communicate better with their co-workers. Collins, in a written statement, said the law will help "understand the causes and the symptoms of the Autism Spectrum Disorder and improve the lives of families affected by it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law also improves training for families, friends and professionals to help them understand and communicate with people with autism. It requires the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study and recommend ways to increase the number of developmental behavioral pediatricians who can diagnose and help people with autism. The law will also study how aging affects people with autism. Keith Wargo, president and CEO of Autism Speaks, a national advocacy group, said in a written statement that "families have benefited from the tremendous impact of this law over the past two decades. This next iteration expands efforts to address gaps in autism health care and services and represents a forward-looking approach to driving progress in research, supports and services for autistic individuals." "Hope is on the horizon, and we are grateful," said Judith Ursitti, co-founder and president of the Profound Autism Alliance advocacy group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About one in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism, according to the U.S. CDC. That represents a 300% increase since 2006. Scientists have concluded that doctors and families are getting better at recognizing when children are showing signs of autism such as difficulties communicating and disrupted social development and are therefore better at diagnosing autism compared to decades ago. Whether there's been a true increase in the prevalence of autism is still being researched. Copy the Story Link A panel of lawmakers decided to hold a proposal that seeks to carve out the General Assembly from some of the provisions of the state's open meetings law after the sponsor indicated it may not be ready for prime time. Dec. 30MORGANTOWN The U.S. House Ethics Committee has closed its inquiry into alleged misspending of campaign funds by Rep. Alex Mooney West Virginia's 2nd District Congressman and cleared him of any wrongdoing, the committee announced on Monday. "In several of the matters that the Committee is resolving, " it said, "there was evidence that the member's campaign did not fully comply with the applicable standards relating to personal use of campaign funds, as well as reporting or record-keeping requirements for campaign expenditures. However, there was no evidence that any member intentionally misused campaign funds for their personal benefit." Mooney commented, "I am grateful to announce that the longstanding bipartisan U.S. House Committee on Ethics has fully dismissed all allegations raised against me following their inquiry in which I fully cooperated and answered all their questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It has been clear all along this was a politically motivated move from the separate Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE), which was created by then Speaker Nancy Pelosi in 2019, " Mooney said. "After facing these baseless accusationsdriven by politically motivated actors on the extreme leftsince 2021, I am pleased that my good name has been fully cleared." The committee said on Monday that it investigated allegations that several members "may have used campaign funds for purposes that are not legitimate and verifiable." It determined to close several such matters, it said, including those relating to allegations referred by the OCE involving Mooney and Reps. Sanford Bishop, D-Ga., Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, and Ronny Jackson, R-Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2021 OCE report alleged that Mooney might have accepted a free or below-market-value trip to Aruba, as well as free lodging and event space from a company that provides services to his campaign committee ; used official resources, including staff time, for campaign work and personal errands ; authorized expenditures from his Members' Representational Allowance that were not for permissible official expenses ; disbursed campaign funds that may not be legitimate and verifiable campaign expenditures attributable to bona fide campaigns or political purposes ; withheld, concealed, or otherwise falsified information during an OCE investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It referred the matter to the Ethics Committee in August 2021. The committees said Monday that the Code of Official Conduct provides that members "may not convert campaign funds to personal use in excess of an amount representing reimbursement for legitimate and verifiable campaign expenditures, " and generally "may not expend funds from a campaign account of such individual that are not attributable to bona fide campaign or political purposes." Federal campaign finance law also prohibits the personal use of campaign funds, the committee said. The committee said members have "wide discretion " in determining what constitutes a bona fide campaign or political purpose for which campaign funds and resources may be devoted, but "members have no discretion whatsoever to convert campaign funds to personal use." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the committee also noted some areas of doubt. "Existing law and guidance from the FEC is often ambiguous and provides for significant gray areas of spending, and that it is apparent that the House community would benefit from updated guidance on personal use of campaign funds and related record-keeping requirements. Accordingly, the Committee said Monday it is releasing guidance and has contacted relevant members to provide them with a copy of the updated guidance as well as specific findings and recommendations with respect to that member's campaign activity. The committee will take no further action in those matters and will consider them closed." Mooney ran unsuccessfully to succeed Joe Manchin in the U.S. Senate. Mooney's House term ends Jan. 3, 2025 ; he will be succeeded by Republican Riley Moore. With the winter cold and flu season upon us, Americans should be on the lookout for another ultra-contagious virus: our most common stomach bug. The U.S. experienced the largest December norovirus surge since at least 2012, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During the week of Dec. 5, state health departments recorded 91 separate outbreaks nationwide, according to the CDC. The next highest figure for that week since 2012 was 65 outbreaks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through November, there have been 55 laboratory-confirmed cases of norovirus in California, according to the state department of public health. Data from December are not yet available. Outbreaks are typically more widespread in January and February, the data show, raising concerns that the surge could continue. Most norovirus cases are transmitted directly from one person to another, the CDC said, from actions such as touching food or eating utensils. Restaurants, cruise ships, healthcare facilities and schools are common transmission sites. Additionally, contaminated food, water and surfaces can spread the virus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued advisories warning businesses and consumers against serving or eating oysters from Washington state, Canada and South Korea which may be contaminated with norovirus. Annually, the CDC reports some 2,500 outbreaks nationally. But real-time monitoring data cover only 14 states: Alabama, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin. Around half of outbreaks of food-related illness are caused by norovirus, per the CDC. Read more: Dozens of people get sick after L.A. Times 101 Best Restaurants event; health officials investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most common symptoms of norovirus are vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and stomach pain. Symptoms usually improve in one to three days, but those infected can still spread the virus for several days after symptoms ease. The best ways to prevent the virus from spreading: washing hands, cooking shellfish thoroughly, washing fruits and vegetables, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, washing laundry in hot water and staying home for two days after symptoms stop. The main treatment for norovirus is hydration to replace fluids lost by the patient. Those with severe dehydration should seek medical attention, the CDC advises. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The United States military said Tuesday its forces had "conducted multiple precision strikes" that hit Houthi targets in Yemen's capital. The targets had been used by the Iran-backed rebels used to attack American warships and commercial vessels, U.S. Central Command said in a news release. The attacks began on Monday and continued on Tuesday. A video shared by the command shows planes taking off and rockets being launched from a ship. The targets included a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon production and storage facilities. The facilities held missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles used in Houthi operations, CENTCOM said. U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force aircraft also destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site and seven cruise missiles and unmanned aerial drones, CENTCOM said. A rocket being launched by U.S. forces. / Credit: CENTCOM One witness in Yemen's Houthi-controlled capital Sanaa reported several strikes in different locations. Another reported raids on Sanaa on the Defense Ministry and having heard a powerful explosion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The command said there were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment. The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region. Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam called the strikes "an American aggression" and "a blatant violation of the sovereignty of an independent state and a blatant support for Israel." The rebels said earlier Tuesday that they had fired two missiles at Israel, hours after the Israeli military said it had intercepted a projectile launched from the country. Earlier in December, a rocket fired from Yemen hit an area of Tel Aviv, leaving over a dozen people injured by shattered glass, according to the Israeli military. That came after days of Israeli airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Houthis control much of war-torn Yemen and have been firing missiles and drones at Israel, and at ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. What to know about the College Football Playoff quarterfinals CBS News 24/7 Credits 2024 What to know about norovirus as cases surge across U.S. The U.S. Treasury Department said a state-sponsored Chinese hacking operation was able to access third-party software to tap into desktop computers of Treasury employees in what the department is calling "a major incident." In a letter seen by NBC News, Aditi Hardikar, assistant secretary for management of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, wrote that the office was notified on Dec. 8 of the breach. The letter is addressed to Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., the chairman and ranking member, respectively, of the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. The information accessed by the threat actor included unclassified documents, according to the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China denied the U.S. allegations. China consistently opposes all forms of hacking and is firmly against the spread of false information targeting China for political purposes, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing. Hardikar wrote that the U.S. Treasury was told by "a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, that a threat actor had gained access to a key used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support for Treasury Departmental Offices (DO) end users." With this access, the "threat actor" was able to override certain security measures and get into the department's user workstations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Treasury has been working with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the FBI and other members of the intelligence community, as well as "third-party forensic investigators to fully characterize the incident and determine its overall impact," the letter reads. In a statement to NBC News, a Treasury spokesperson cited the contents of the Hardikar letter, saying that "the compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline" and that there is "no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information." "Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds. Over the last four years, Treasury has significantly bolstered its cyber defense, and we will continue to work with both private and public sector partners to protect our financial system from threat actors," the statement reads in part. Fellow agencies helped the U.S. Treasury deduce that the breach came from a Chinese hackers, according to the letter. The letter states that a supplemental report will be made available in 30 days. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Ukraine says it has used an adapted air-to-air missile fired from an uncrewed surface vessel (USV), better known as a drone boat, to down a Russian Mi-8 Hip helicopter over the Black Sea earlier today. While the results of the engagement havent been independently verified, they have been confirmed by Russian military bloggers, suggesting this is actually the first time that a USV has been used successfully to bring down an aircraft of any kind. A historic strike: @DI_Ukraine warriors destroyed an aerial target using a Magura V5 naval drone. A russian Mi-8 helicopter was destroyed using R-73 SeeDragon missiles near Cape Tarkhankut in temporarily occupied Crimea. Another enemy helicopter was damaged and returned to pic.twitter.com/AMOiuVEzWe Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) December 31, 2024 According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, the historic engagement took place near Cape Tarkhankut in Russian-occupied Crimea. The missile was fired from a Magura V5 USV operated by the Main Directorate of Intelligences (GUR) Group 13 unit. Another Russian helicopter, type undisclosed, was reportedly damaged and returned to its airfield. The missile in question, an R-73 (AA-11 Archer) air-to-air missile, has now received the name Sea Dragon in its surface-launched naval application. In the video, one of the drone boats can be seen being hosed with machine gun fire, while at least one of the targeted Mi-8s can be seen releasing infrared flares in an effort to evade the heat-seeking missile. A still from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence video shows a Russian helicopter apparently in the sights of the USV. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense screencap Evidence of Ukraine arming USVs with heat-seeking air-to-air missiles began to emerge in May of 2024, as TWZ reported at the time. The adaptation was apparently made to provide the USVs with a defense against the Russian helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft that are regularly used to counter them, but it also gives the drone boats a new offensive capability in addition to their primary role of going after Russian warships and other surface vessels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until now, it was unclear just how practical the extemporized arrangement was. The latest Ukrainian claims suggest it has proven effective on this occasion, although there remain questions about how the weapons actually work, especially in terms of the engagement process. Speaking today, Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the GUR, confirmed that there had been several previous unsuccessful efforts to engage Russian helicopters using R-73-armed USVs. The smoke trail left by an R-73 missile as it heads toward its target, as seen in a still from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence video. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense screencap A large splash shows the apparent demise of the Russian helicopter. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense screencap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The R-73 short-range air-to-air missile that is used to arm some of Ukraines Magura V5 USVs is potentially a capable surface-to-air weapon, too. As we described when the modification first emerged, the high-off-boresight (HOBS) seeker on the R-73 can articulate a considerable distance in any direction: aided by a helmet-mounted sight, the Archer can be launched in air-to-air engagements against targets with off-boresight angles of +/-75 degrees. This gives the R-73 the potential to be a particularly potent, albeit improvised threat for locking onto and engaging dynamic targets with minimal assisting sensors when used in a surface-launched form. Previous photos confirm that a pair of R-73s can be mounted on angled rails attached to the rear of the USV. A still from a Russian Ministry of Defense video shows a single R-73 on one of two angled rails mounted on the rear of the USV. Russian Ministry of Defense screencap It should also be noted that there several precedents for air-to-air missiles including the R-73 in particular being adapted for surface launch. The Yemen-based Houthi militants have adapted R-73s for surface launch against aircraft targets, and used them in combat, as you can read about here. The Houthis added a commercial FLIR as part of that extemporized air defense solution, which has been used to great effect, and it would appear Ukraine has adopted a similar approach for its drone boats. A schematic diagram of the R-73 missile. Public Domain Ukraine, too, has adapted the R-73 for ground launch, adding the missile to the Cold War-era, Soviet-made 9K33 Osa (SA-8 Gecko) mobile short-range air defense system (SHORADS). You can read more about that adaptation here. Close-up of an R-73 missile loaded on an Osa-AKM SHORADS vehicle. Come Back Alive Ukraine has plentiful stocks of R-73s and likely also the older R-60s that could potentially be adapted for launch from USVs, although the capabilities of these older missiles are inferior overall. The R-73 remains part of the standard armament for Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29 Fulcrum and Su-27 Flanker fighters. A Ukrainian MiG-29 seen with four R-73s (and a medium-range R-27 air-to-air missile) under the wing, after returning from a combat mission over eastern Ukraine on Aug. 2, 2023. Photo by Libkos/Getty Images LIBKOS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jet shot down a Russian-Iranian "Shahed" drone using an R-73 air-to-air missile during a recent missile and drone attack. pic.twitter.com/faAIXnT66B NOELREPORTS (@NOELreports) August 30, 2024 When the Magura V5 was first noted with R-73 missile armament, it was in videos released by the Russian Ministry of Defense. These showed one of the Ukrainian USVs coming under attack from a Russian Navy Ka-29 Helix-B assault helicopter. The USV performed some hard maneuvers to try and escape, but was eventually destroyed, apparently by gunfire from the helicopter. Undated footage of the crew of a Russian BSF's Kamov Ka-29 helicopter attempting to destroy a Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicle (USV), which appears to be equipped with a Soviet-era R-73 air-to-air missile (modified for launches from USVs). As the video ends, the Ukrainian USV pic.twitter.com/EbZdYIZsvA Status-6 (Military & Conflict News) (BlueSky too) (@Archer83Able) October 23, 2024 Russian combat helicopter is reportedly destroying a Ukrainian USV with two R-73 missiles onboard. https://t.co/86plzNEQb4 pic.twitter.com/60GccpoymU Samuel Bendett (@sambendett) May 6, 2024 While the missile-toting drone boat might have been unsuccessful on that occasion, as we have noted in the past, it remains a significant development and one that could impact how Russia conducts air operations over the Black Sea especially in the case of helicopters where the hot engines should make a good target for infrared missile seeker heads. Ultimately, successful use of R-73s fired from USVs could force Russian rotorcraft to operate further from the drone boats they are targeting, even if the probability of kill is not especially high, and the overall range of the missile markedly reduced from the 8.7 miles that can be achieved against a tail-on target when launched (in optimum conditions) in an air-to-air engagement. An R-73 air-to-air missile on display. Black bands on the weapon indicate an inert round. Vitaly V. Kuzmin/Wikimdia Commons The Russian helicopters that appear to be the favored weapon against the Ukrainian USVs are primarily armed with heavy machine guns, unguided rockets, and potentially anti-tank guided missiles. None of these offer the standoff range that would allow the helicopters to engage USVs before coming within the engagement envelope of the R-73. The wreckage of an R-73 on a Ukrainian USV that was washed ashore and fell into Russian hands earlier this year. via X While we wait for independent verification of the success of the USV in shooting down a Mi-8, theres meanwhile no doubt that the adaptation has the potential to inflict further losses on the Russian military in the Black Sea. In particular, the development complicates Russias actions when it comes to countering Ukrainian drone boats, providing the USVs with a deterrent, and a powerful means of shooting back more powerful than the machine-gun-armed USVs that we have previously seen in action against Russian helicopters. This is yet another calculus in the fast-evolving drone war in the Black Sea region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already, Ukrainian USVs have inflicted disproportionate losses on Russian surface vessels operating in the Black Sea. The latest development is a further reminder of the willingness of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to improvise innovative weapons systems and to introduce these relatively rapidly to counter new and emerging threats. Update, January 2: The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has claimed that the engagement on January 31 resulted in not one but two Russian Mi-8 helicopters being shot down by USVs armed with Sea Dragon missiles. This is in addition to another helicopter that was previously reported by Ukraine as damaged but able to return to its base. Ukrainian and Russian accounts do not report any survivors aboard the helicopters that were shot down. Record-breaking: Magura naval drones destroyed two russian Mi-8 helicopters in the Black Sea. According to updated information, during a successful operation by @DI_Ukraine near temporarily occupied Crimea on December 31, 2024, a special forces unit used missile-equipped Magura https://t.co/9eOjMN9AEP pic.twitter.com/DlgSV1Zdd5 Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) January 2, 2025 Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine has a chance to contribute to restoring stability in Syria after years of Russian interference, emphasizing that this effort will also bolster Ukraines own pursuit of peace. "It would be the right step to restore our diplomatic relations and economic cooperation with Syria," he said during his evening address on Dec. 30. "And I really hope that post-Assad Syria will respect international law something Assad couldnt and didnt want to do." Zelesnky also expressed gratitude to Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who raised the Ukrainian flag over the Honorary Consulate in Damascus on the same day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I would also like to thank Ukraines Foreign Affairs Ministry team and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food for organizing our delegations visit to Damascus to the new Syria," Zelensky said. "I look forward to receiving reports from the ministers on the negotiations and the initial results. This demonstrates Ukraines leadership and agility in foreign policy qualities that can deliver the positive outcomes we need." Ukraine has acted swiftly to rebuild relations with Syria following the overthrow of former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assads Russia-backed regime on Dec. 8. Sybihas visit marked the first official Ukrainian delegation to Syria in years, signaling an effort to restore diplomatic ties severed in 2022 after Assad aligned with Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. During his visit, Sybiha highlighted Ukraines readiness to reestablish diplomatic relations, trade, and educational exchanges with Syria, provided the new leadership adheres to international law and respects territorial integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 27, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine had delivered 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria under its "Grain from Ukraine" initiative. Read also: I survived a Russian torture camp. So I had to see Assads Sednaya prison Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine said it destroyed a Russian helicopter with a seaborne drone for the first time. Footage appeared to show a missile launched from the sea and a helicopter falling from the sky. Ukraine's sea drones have proved a pivotal technology, helping it combat Russia's vast navy. New video footage shows what Ukriane said it a world-first: one of its seaborne drones destroying a flying target. The clip purports to show a Ukrainian Magura V5 sea drone destroying a Russian Mi-8 helicopter. It was shared by Ukraine's defence-intelligence agency, commonly known as the GUR. The footage, which appears to show thermal imagery taken from the drone, shows a helicopter in the sky and a bright object heading towards the helicopter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The helicopter then appears to fall, and an object is seen crashing into the water. The video shows the same incident from multiple angles. It finishes with the English text: "Happy new 2025 year." You can watch the footage here: The GUR said that soldiers took the shot on Tuesday, destroying the helicopter with a drone-launched missile. It said it was the first-ever example of such a strike. The exchange took place in the Black Sea, near Cape Tarkhankut in Crimea, the Ukrainian region that Russia annexed in 2014. The sea drone used R-73 "SeeDragon" missiles, the GUR said. Those are short-range air-to-air missiles that have infrared homing technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GUR said another, similar Russian helicopter was hit too but managed to make it back to an airfield. It's not clear if it was hit by drones, or other weaponry. The operation was credited to Ukraine's Group 13, which operates the sea drones and has claimed responsibility for other daring strikes. Helicopters which fly slower than most planes have been targeted by different types of drones before. Ukraine appeared to take down another Mi-8 with an aerial drone earlier this year. The Magura V5 is a multi-use uncrewed surface vessel that's made by Ukraine. Drones have been used in Russia's invasion of Ukraine more than in any other conflict in history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes large, military-grade, and small, civilian-style drones in the air, as well as naval drones. Its naval drones have targeted, damaged, and destroyed some Russian ships, helping Ukraine in its lopsided fight against Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Ukraine had sunk, destroyed, or damaged at least 24 Russian vessels in the Black Sea as of June, according to the US, and Russia moved many of its remaining vessels further away from Ukraine. Ukraine's drones have allowed it to largely neutralize Russia's navy, without Ukraine having any warships of its own. The drones have also laid mines to target Russian ships and attacked Russian oil platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine typically loads its naval drones with explosives and drives them directly into targets to detonate on impact. Ukraine has also added missiles to some, like some of its Magura V5s. The drones have also had firefights with Russian helicopters, aircraft, and patrol boats. Ukraine makes its own sea drones, which, alongside the Magura V5, include the powerful Sea Baby drone. Read the original article on Business Insider The Colorado Supreme Court signaled last week that it may intervene in a Weld County murder case in which a trial judge has struggled to contain the accidental release of confidential defense documents to the prosecution. (Reuters) -Ukrainian military intelligence said on Tuesday one of its naval drones had destroyed a Russian helicopter and damaged another one in the Black Sea. In a battle near Cape Tarkhankut on Crimea's west coast on Tuesday, a Magura V5 maritime drone equipped with missiles hit a Russian Mi-8 helicopter, Ukraine's GUR spy agency said on Telegram. GUR said it was the first time a Ukrainian naval drone had downed an air target. Reuters could not independently verify the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no comment from Moscow on the helicopter. Russia's Defence Ministry said on Telegram its Black Sea Fleet destroyed eight unmanned drone vessels. The downing of a Russian helicopter by a Ukrainian naval drone was also reported by the prominent Russian military blogger, Voenny Osvedomitel. The GUR said a second Russian helicopter managed to get to the airfield after it was damaged in the attack. In grainy footage released by GUR, a helicopter flying over water could be seen targeted by several projectiles. The aircraft is filmed falling down after the attack. Reuters could not immediately verify the video. Following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has ramped up drone production and developed naval attack drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv's military has used maritime drones to strike Russian warships and facilities on the Crimean peninsula, seized and annexed by Moscow in 2014. Naval drone and missile strikes have inflicted heavy damage to Russia's major naval base in Sevastopol and its Black Sea Fleet has been forced to rebase almost all warships elsewhere, Ukraine says. (Reporting by Yuliia DysaEditing by Ros Russell) Ukraine struck an oil depot in the Yartsevo district of Russia's Smolensk Oblast, igniting the facility's oil reserves, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed on Dec. 31. The depot, which supplies the Russian military, was targeted in a coordinated operation involving Ukraine's Special Operations Forces and the Unmanned Systems Forces. The strike resulted in "powerful explosions, a fire, and heavy smoke" at the site, according to the report. It did not specify which type of weapon was used in the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The confirmation follows reports from regional authorities detailing the damage caused by an overnight Ukrainian drone attack. Roman Zakharov, head of the Yartsevo district, had previously reported on his Telegram channel that a Ukrainian drone targeted the fuel depot and an energy facility, sparking fires. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. Another overnight drone strike on Dec. 22 targeted an oil depot near the city of Oryol in western Russia. Videos shared on social media captured large explosions, though the extent of the damage remained unclear. Just a week earlier, on Dec. 14, Ukrainian drones had struck the same oil depot in Oryol, causing several fires, which the General Staff confirmed to be one of Russia's largest oil product terminals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, on Dec. 11, Ukrainian forces targeted an oil-loading pipeline near the Russian city of Bryansk, setting it ablaze. Over the past year, Ukraine has escalated its drone strikes on Russia's oil industry, seeking to undermine Moscow's capacity to sustain its war efforts and supply its military operations. Read also: Ukrainian sea drone downs Russian helicopter with anti-air missile in first strike of its kind Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Key developments on Dec. 31: Ukrainian sea drone downs Russian helicopter with anti-air missile in first strike of its kind Russian attacks damage homes and infrastructure in Kyiv and Sumy oblasts ahead of New Year Ukraine strikes oil depot in Russia's Smolensk Oblast, General Staff confirms Russian officers trained for attacks on Japan, South Korea in event of war with NATO, FT reports Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) destroyed a Russian aerial target with the Ukrainian-made Magura V5 naval strike drone for the first time, HUR reported on Dec. 31. During a battle in the Black Sea off the Western tip of occupied Crimea, the special unit Group 13 launched SeeDragon missiles from the Magura drone. The unit downed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter and hit another helicopter, although the latter was able to fly back to the airbase. A video from the battle shows the moment the missiles locked onto the helicopter before it exploded and crashed into the sea. The Magura drone has helped Ukraine push back against Russias Black Sea Fleet by striking dozens of ships this year. They have been in operation since the summer of 2023. It can cover a distance of more than 800 kilometers (500 miles), reach a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph), and is capable of carrying a 250-kilogram warhead. Each one is 5.5 meters long and costs approximately 10 million hryvnias ($240,000). In June, HUR announced that the drones had been modified to operate anti-aircraft missiles, presenting a serious threat to the Russian air force over the Black Sea. Ukraine previously destroyed several notable Russian ships with Magura drones, including a landing ship Caesar Kunikov, a Sergei Kotov patrol ship, high-speed Serna and Akula landing crafts, and a Tarantul-class Ivanovets missile corvette. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine struck hundreds of targets deep inside Russia in 2024. What did they achieve? Russian attacks damage homes and infrastructure in Kyiv and Sumy oblasts ahead of New Year Russian missile and drone attacks injured at least one person and damaged residential buildings and infrastructure in Kyiv and Sumy oblasts on Dec. 31. Russian troops launched 21 missiles, including six Iskander ballistic missiles and one Kinzhal aeroballistic missile, and 40 drones overnight on Dec. 30-31. A woman in Kyiv Oblast was concussed after falling debris damaged the roof of a house and smashed its windows, according to the regional military administration. In the capital, missile wreckage fell onto the roof of a home in the Darnitskyi district. No casualties or damages were reported. Russian attacks also damaged infrastructure in the town of Shostka, Sumy Oblast, according to local government head Mykola Noha. While no fatalities have been recorded so far, the strikes damaged 12 residential buildings, two educational institutions, three boiler houses, a healthcare clinic, a dormitory, as well as other facilities. The damages and losses are still being clarified, Noha said. During the mass attack, Ukraine downed six missiles and 16 drones, Ukraine's Air Force said. A further 24 drones were decoys that failed to reach their target. Russia has not slowed down its attacks on Ukraine over the festive period. President Volodymr Zelenksy said on Dec. 29 that Moscow had escalated its aerial assaults on Ukraine during the holiday season. On Dec. 25, Russia conducted a large-scale Christmas attack, firing 78 missiles and 106 drones against multiple cities. Read also: I survived a Russian torture camp. So I had to see Assads Sednaya prison Ukraine strikes oil depot in Russia's Smolensk Oblast, General Staff confirms Ukraine struck an oil depot in the Yartsevo district of Russia's Smolensk Oblast, igniting the facility's oil reserves, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed on Dec. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The depot, which supplies the Russian military, was targeted in a coordinated operation involving Ukraine's Special Operations Forces and the Unmanned Systems Forces. The strike resulted in "powerful explosions, a fire, and heavy smoke" at the site, according to the report. It did not specify which type of weapon was used in the attack. The confirmation follows reports from regional authorities detailing the damage caused by an overnight Ukrainian drone attack. Roman Zakharov, head of the Yartsevo district, had previously reported on his Telegram channel that a Ukrainian drone targeted the fuel depot and an energy facility, sparking fires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Azerbaijan Airlines crash highlights Russias failure to close airspace amid war Russian officers trained for attacks on Japan, South Korea in event of war with NATO, FT reports Russia developed offensive plans targeting civilian and military sites in Japan and South Korea in the event of a war with NATO, the Financial Times reported on Dec. 31, citing documents shown to the outlet by Western sources. The leaked plans, drawn up between 2008 and 2014 to train military officers for a potential conflict on Russia's eastern flank, are reportedly still considered "relevant to Russian strategy" today. The documents outline 160 potential targets, including civilian and military infrastructure such as roads, bridges, factories, and military installations in NATO-allied Japan and South Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plans detailed how striking these targets could protect Russia's eastern flank in a broader conflict by disrupting the "regrouping of troops in areas of operational purpose." Military targets identified in the plans include the central and regional command headquarters of the Japanese and South Korean armed forces, radar installations, air bases, and naval facilities. Civilian infrastructure targets include roads, bridges, and rail tunnels. Other key sites include fuel refineries, industrial facilities such as steelworks and chemical factories in Busan, South Korea, and 13 power plants, including a nuclear complex in Tokai, Japan. Read also: Russian military suffers 427,000 casualties in 2024, Syrskyi claims Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine's Defence Intelligence (DIU) has released a radio interception of Russian communications confirming that a Russian helicopter was struck by a Ukrainian uncrewed surface vessel (USV) on 31 December, though the aircraft managed to return to base. Source: press service for DIU Details: In a radio intercept obtained by Ukrainian intelligence, a pilot of a Russian Mi-8 helicopter, struck by a missile launched from a Magura V5 USV, details the nature and consequences of the attack on the aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "There was a bang I got hit. It was a launch from the water. After that, there was another flash. I didn't see where it went, but the first one hit me directly and exploded somewhere nearby I could feel it on the helicopter, some systems went down." Previously: Another Russian Mi-8 helicopter crashed into the Black Sea following a missile strike by a Magura USV operated by Ukraines Defence Intelligence (DIU), an incident captured on video. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine's Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko has expressed doubts about Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's threats to halt electricity supplies to Kyiv over Ukraine's stance on the transit of Russian gas. Source: European Pravda, citing Herman Halushchenko's interview with Politico Details: Halushchenko believes Slovakia will not stop exporting electricity to Ukraine, as such a move would be "absolutely contrary" to EU regulations. He stated that cutting electricity sales to Ukraine would only deal Slovakia a greater financial blow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "We are talking not about some grant of electricity or supply for free we are talking about the electricity which we pay for." Halushchenko added that Slovakia's losses would amount to "hundreds of millions of dollars" annually. The minister also noted that Ukraine could replace the lost electricity through imports from Romania and Poland. Background: Slovakia has repeatedly sought to extend the agreement between Ukraine and Russia on Russian gas transit, which expires in 2024. Against this backdrop, Robert Fico made a controversial visit to Russia, meeting Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. He subsequently threatened to halt electricity supplies to Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraines Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Sybiha held his first phone call with orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, the newly-appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, on 31 December. Source: Sybiha on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Sybiha said that he spoke about the situation on the front lines, Russia's air terror, and Ukraine's priority defence and energy needs during the "warm first call" with his Icelandic counterpart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Grateful to Iceland and all of its people for sincerely supporting Ukraine," Sybiha said. Background: orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, the leader of Iceland's Reform Party, became the country's Foreign Affairs Minister on 21 December after the formation of the new government. Earlier this year, the Icelandic Parliament adopted a resolution supporting Ukraine long-term, from 2024 to 2028. Additionally, Reykjavik signed a security agreement with Kyiv. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraines Ministry of Defence approved over 1,300 types of weapons and military equipment for use by the countrys Armed Forces in 2024. Source: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine Quote: "In 2024, the Ministry of Defence approved more than 1,300 types of weapons and military equipment for use [by the Armed Forces - ed.], nearly 75% of which are of domestic production." Details: The ministry provided figures for codified weaponry: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 251 models of unmanned aerial systems, 169 types of ammunition, 153 types of electronic warfare and reconnaissance equipment, 108 types of engineering equipment, 97 communication systems, 57 ground missile systems. Background: On 6 December, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy handed over the first batch of the latest Peklo (Hell) missile drones to Ukraines defence forces, with a range of up to 700 km. On 27 December, Ukraines Ministry of Defence codified and approved the Ravlyk robotic platform for use by Ukrainian forces. Support UP or become our patron! Soldiers of the 6th Regiment of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have captured a village in Russias Kursk Oblast. Source: press service for the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces; Ukrainska Pravda Details: It is noted that first, it was the defence forces' artillery units that targeted the settlement. Later, the Special Operations Forces soldiers entered the village, recaptured it, and conducted a mop-up operation in the area [as Ukrainska Pravda sources said, this happened the other day ed]. It turned out that, along with the Russian military, the village was also held by North Korean troops. Support UP or become our patron! The Air Force of Ukraine has summarised its operations in 2024, reporting the downing of over 1,300 missiles of various types, 11,200 strike drones and 40 Russian aircraft. Source: Ukrainian Air Force Quote: "In 2024, air defence forces destroyed over 1,300 missiles of various types, 11,200 attack drones and 3,200 reconnaissance UAVs of operational-tactical level. This year, Ukrainian air defence also shot down 40 enemy aircraft and six helicopters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aviation units of the Air Force performed over 20,000 sorties throughout the year, with nearly 9,000 of them involving combat missions using Western weaponry." Details: The Air Force reported that in 2024, Russia launched significantly more missiles and attack drones against Ukraine's critical infrastructure than in the previous year. They introduced a large number of drones mimicking Shahed UAVs to overload Ukrainian air defence systems. In addition, Russian aircraft dropped tens of thousands of guided bombs on frontline areas, obliterating Ukrainian towns and villages near the line of contact. Throughout the year, Russia ramped up both production and use of ballistic missiles against Ukraine, including North Korean KN-23 missiles. Support UP or become our patron! The petition to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to delay the next round of wolf introductions isn't going anywhere not anytime soon. Mykyta Shaulskyi, a defender of Mariupol, has been brought back to Ukraine from Russian captivity. The reunion was something his 12-year-old brother Maksym had eagerly awaited. Tragically, Maksym and their grandmother were killed in a Russian attack on Kryvyi Rih in September 2024. Source: UNITED24, a fundraising platform run by the Ukrainian government Details: The father of the released defender, Andrii Shaulskyi, said he and his wife were on their way to meet their son, as reported by Suspilne.Dnipro, a Dnipro-related branch of Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He [Mykyta] called and said he was in Ukraine. We were crying, of course, overwhelmed with emotions. He said: 'Dad, don't cry'. But they were tears of joy. It was a New Year gift. For three years, we had a feeling that it was coming," Andrii Shaulskyi shared his emotions. Andrii mentioned that Mykyta had been in Russian captivity since 19 April 2022. He also revealed that Mykyta was aware of his brother and grandmother's deaths, but he learned about it not from his family but from information he found on the Internet. "We wanted to tell him in person. He asked for Maksym and his grandmother's phone numbers, and we told him there was no connection due to power outages, but he read everything on the Internet," Andrii said. Russian forces launched a missile strike on the city of Kryvyi Rih in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on 21 September 2024, claiming the life of 12-year-old Maksym Shaulskyi and his grandmother Valentyna. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family friends said the boy dreamed of seeing his older brother Mykyta be released from Russian captivity and being able to hug him once again. "Maksym Shaulskyi was the bright sunshine of our large family and community, a blue-eyed, sweet child, a boy who longed to hug his older brother, who had been in enemy captivity for three years," said Oksana Latanska, a family friend. Maksym, 12, often took part in Free Azov campaigns to support Ukrainian prisoners of war. The boy also believed in Ukraine's victory and was deeply concerned about the fate of every defender held by Russia, said Liubov Riabko, the founder of the charity. "It's excruciating and unfair... Maksym Shaulskyi was just a 12-year-old boy who dreamed of hugging his older brother Mykyta, waiting for him to be released from captivity and being together again as a family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His heart beat in rhythm with hope and faith that the day would come when he would see his brother. Maksym was a little fighter who believed in victory," Latanska said. Mykyta Shaulskyi still has his parents, both of whom are defending Ukraine in the ranks of the Armed Forces, and his brother Danylo. Despite the tragic loss of his younger brother and grandmother, Mykyta went out to support Ukrainian defenders held by Russia just a few days after their funeral, local media outlet Na chasi. Kryvyi Rih reported. Background: On 30 December 2024, a POW swap took place, during which Ukraine liberated 189 defenders. Among them was Roman Borshch, a former journalist and defender of Mariupol. "There are emotions now, I don't fully understand what is happening. We were extremely lucky, considering the places of our detention," said the released soldier immediately after arriving in Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! On the night of 30-31 December, Ukrainian Special Operations Forces, along with UAV Forces and other components of the defence forces, mounted an attack on the Yartsevskaya oil storage facility in Smolensk Oblast. The facility provided fuel to the Russian military. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook Quote: "During the night, Special Operations Forces, in coordination with the UAV Forces of Ukraine and other components of the Defence Forces, launched a strike on the Yartsevskaya oil depot in Smolensk Oblast, Russia." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Powerful explosions and a fire broke out at the facility, accompanied by a thick cloud of smoke. Early reports suggest that fuel storage tanks caught fire. The facility was reportedly used to supply Russian troops. Additional details regarding the combat operation's outcomes are being clarified. Background: Russian media and Telegram channels reported a fire at an oil depot at dawn on 31 December following a UAV attack in Russia's Smolensk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian soldier Roman Borshch has been freed from Russian captivity. He is also a former journalist, a member of the Plast National Scout Organisation of Ukraine and a resident of Ternopil in Ukraine's west. Source: Roman's wife, Oksana Borshch Details: "After 33 months in enemy captivity, my husband, defender of Mariupol Roman Borshch, has been brought back home to Ukraine," she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roman worked in the media and often travelled to the ATO zone as a volunteer and journalist. [ATO or Anti-Terrorist Operation is a term used by the media, the government of Ukraine and the OSCE to identify combat actions in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts against Russian military forces and pro-Russian separatists in 2014-2018 ed.]. Roman enlisted in Ukraine's Armed Forces in 2018, joining the marines at the age of 22. After completing a three-year contract, he returned to civilian life. Borshch worked as a spokesperson for Ukraine's Ministry of Health in 2021. Roman rejoined the Ukrainian military following the full-scale Russian invasion. He witnessed the start of the invasion in Mariupol alongside his fellow marines. In March 2022, he was captured by Russian forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are emotions now, I don't fully realise what's happening. We were extremely lucky, considering the places of our detention. First, there was Olenivka [POW camp], where we spent literally a month, then the Donetsk pre-trial detention centre. At first, we were all charged with Article 229.2 terrorism," Roman Borshch told journalists from the Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne shortly after his arrival in Ukraine on 30 December 2024. Background: Earlier, Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliamentary Committee on Freedom of Speech, noted that Russia uses people with media experience for its own propaganda. He explained that this is why Russia is reluctant to release Ukrainian journalists. "Russian television used a [Ukrainian] soldier to depict the supposedly good conditions of detention for prisoners of war. In the story, Borshch speaks about 'excellent' detention conditions, good food, and so on. For the Russian Federation, people like Roman are valued very highly in exchanges. This is because prisoners of war with media experience can most effectively convey the realities of life in Russian prisons [after their release]," Yaroslav Yurchyshyn wrote in an opinion piece for Ukrainska Pravda in November this year. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) destroyed a Russian aerial target with the Ukrainian-made Magura V5 naval strike drone for the first time, HUR reported on Dec. 31. During a battle in the Black Sea off the Western tip of occupied Crimea, the special unit Group 13 launched SeeDragon missiles from the Magura drone. The unit downed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter and hit another helicopter, although the latter was able to fly back to the airbase. A video from the battle shows the moment the missiles locked onto the helicopter before it exploded and crashed into the sea. The Magura drone has helped Ukraine push back against Russias Black Sea Fleet by striking dozens of ships this year. They have been in operation since the summer of 2023. It can cover a distance of more than 800 kilometers (500 miles), reach a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph), and is capable of carrying a 250-kilogram warhead. Each one is 5.5 meters long and costs approximately 10 million hryvnias ($240,000). In June, HUR announced that the drones had been modified to operate anti-aircraft missiles, presenting a serious threat to the Russian air force over the Black Sea. Ukraine previously destroyed several notable Russian ships with Magura drones, including a landing ship Caesar Kunikov, a Sergei Kotov patrol ship, high-speed Serna and Akula landing crafts, and a Tarantul-class Ivanovets missile corvette. Read also: NATO to strengthen Baltic Sea military presence following suspected underwater cable sabotage Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A Ukrainian sea drone has destroyed a Russian helicopter off the coast of Crimea for the first time. Footage of the attack shared by HUR, Kyivs military intelligence, showed the drone bobbing on the sea as the aircraft manoeuvred above. Plumes of water splashed up next to the Magura V5 drone as Russian fire hit the sea around it. What appeared to be rockets were launched towards the helicopter, which could later be seen plunging into the sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second aircraft was also targeted in the strike but was only damaged and was able to limp back to a nearby airfield, Kyiv said. Ukraines defence ministry described it as a historic strike. Defence Intelligence warriors destroyed an aerial target using a Magura V5 naval drone, the ministry said in a social media post. A Russian Mi-8 helicopter was destroyed using R-73 SeeDragon missiles near Cape Tarkhankut in temporarily occupied Crimea. Another enemy helicopter was damaged and returned to the airfield. Ukrainian intelligence images showing the Russian helicopter falling into the sea off the coast of Crimea - Defence of Ukraine The Telegraph first reported the presence of modified Magura sea drones, fitted with anti-aircraft missile launchers, in February. The first images of the modification surfaced on Russian social media channels in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unmanned sea craft have been the scourge of Russias Black Sea Fleet, helping to push the naval force out of the waters around Crimea and back to Russian ports. Helicopters have emerged as Moscows main method of defence against the Ukrainian drones. It has been reported that Moscow regularly uses aircraft to patrol the coastlines of occupied Crimea and southern Russia in an attempt to spot drone missions. The Magura drones have several modifications, including one-way attack craft that self-destruct on impact with their targets. Reusable missile launchers have been used for reconnaissance missions in the Black Sea in the absence of a genuine Ukrainian navy in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most notably, the drones were used to partially destroy a segment of the Kerch Bridge, which connects Crimea to mainland Russia, in one of Kyivs most successful military strikes of the war. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) Cancer Center and Research Institute received a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to examine the biological factors contributing to prostate cancer and racial disparities in outcomes. According to UMMC, the grant will help advance research on the mechanisms of prostate cancer development and therapeutic resistance and address longstanding health inequities, ultimately guiding the development of more effective and equitable treatment options. Nasty norovirus is back in full force with US cases of the stomach virus surging Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Disadvantaged minority populations bear the greatest burden of health disparities in the United States. While it is believed that inequities in access to health care are a major contributor, emerging data continues to support a biological basis for such disparities as well, said principal investigator Dr. Ajay Singh, professor of cell and molecular biology and associate director of basic and translational research at CCRI. Earlier studies from Singhs group have identified a protein, MYB, that is abnormally expressed in prostate cancer at higher levels in tumors of Black patients. Research also found that MYB promotes prostate tumor growth and therapy resistance. This DoD funded project will study how inflammatory signaling is involved in the induction of MYB, which then crosstalk with a stress-associated signaling pathway to promote resistance against currently available cancer therapies. Dr. Rodney Rocconi, director of the Cancer Center and Research Institute and Ergon Chair for Cancer Research, said it is his hope that by establishing these connections, the research will guide the development of novel intervention strategies to minimize disparity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Israeli attacks on hospitals in the Gaza Strip could constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity, the UN's human rights office said in a report on Tuesday. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) said Israeli strikes have brought the territory's "healthcare system to the brink of complete collapse, with catastrophic effect on Palestinians access to health and medical care." High Commissioner Volker Turk called for an independent and thorough investigation into the attacks on Gaza's hospitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As if the relentless bombing and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza were not enough, the one sanctuary where Palestinians should have felt safe in fact became a death trap," he said. "The protection of hospitals during warfare is paramount and must be respected by all sides, at all times," Turk added. The report covered the period between October 2023 - soon after the October 7 attacks on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas which sparked the conflict in Gaza - and June 2024. Over the period, at least 27 hospital and 12 other medical facilities were hit in 136 attacks, the UNHCR said, causing "significant casualties among doctors, nurses, medics and other civilians." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN agency warned that "intentionally directing attacks against hospitals" would constitute a war crime, while systematic attacks could "amount to crimes against humanity." Israel has repeatedly justified operations against hospitals - including against the Kamal Adwan clinic last week - by claiming that Hamas has used the facilities for military purposes. However, the report said that "insufficient information has so far been made available to substantiate these allegations, which have remained vague and broad, and in some cases appear contradicted by publicly available information." The end of 2024 marks the end of Utah Gov. Spencer Coxs first term and the beginning of his second four-year term in office. As the year comes to a close, nearly three dozen Cox appointees who head Utahs governing offices wrote letters highlighting what they see as Coxs biggest accomplishments. But their responses also point to some of the states largest challenges that remain unresolved. What stood out from Coxs first term in office? The way state agency leaders put it, Cox inherited the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and a historic drought upon transitioning from lieutenant governor to governor in January 2021. But a focus on streamlining government operations and tackling funding and regulatory hurdles helped the state emerge even stronger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just in 2024, Utah received recognition as the best state in the nation for the second consecutive year; the best state to start a business; the most affordable state; and the state with the best economic outlook for a record 17th consecutive year. Heres what the states agency leaders say stands out from Coxs first term: Water: Joel Ferry, executive director of the Department of Natural Resources, pointed out that Cox helped negotiate over $1 billion in investments to improve Utahs water scarcity. Policy changes included establishing the Water Enhancement Trust to benefit the Great Salt Lake and funding agriculture optimization. Education: Rich Nye, the governors senior adviser for education, praised the school choice compromise Cox helped to negotiate that resulted in a $6,000 pay raise for teachers and that generated new interest in education as a profession. This was part of what Nye said was a record $2.6 billion spent on Utahs K-12 system, including $130 million for rural school construction needs. Social media: Margaret Woolley Busse, executive director of the Department of Commerce, focused on the Cox-led initiative to pass legislation regulating social media companies to protect minors. This included a law requiring age-verification for porn websites as well as lawsuits against Tik Tok and Meta alleging that the tech giants knew their products harm young users. Healthy dialogue: Gordon Larsen, the governors senior adviser for federal affairs, reflected on Coxs high-profile role as chairman of the National Governors Association from 2023-2024 which gave Cox a megaphone on important Utah issues, like public lands and energy permitting, and allowed the governor to present his Disagree Better initiative on the national stage. What will Cox prioritize in a 2nd term? As his first term drew to a close, Utahs governor made big commitments that have yet to be fulfilled. The places where Cox has taken the boldest public stances include the complicated questions of chronic homelessness and public land management, as well as housing and energy, which Cox has repeatedly said are his biggest priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as Cox enters a second term, these are the issues where his advisers and appointees had the least to say by way of measurable outcomes. Homelessness: Wayne Niederhauser, the states first Homelessness Coordinator, outlined how the newly created Office of Homeless Services secured funding for deeply affordable housing units, initiated microshelter and case management pilot programs, and planned a centralized homelessness campus. However, chronic homelessness has doubled in the state since 2019. Public lands: Redge Johnson, executive director of the Public Lands Policy Coordinating Office, applauded Coxs support for the states lawsuit before the U.S. Supreme Court questioning the federal governments management of public lands. However, it is uncertain whether the court will take up the case which will cost tens of millions in taxpayer dollars for legal fees and advertising. Energy: Ferry touted the purchase of the San Rafael Energy Research Lab, which focuses on sustainable power sources, and the governors Operation Gigawatt, an initiative to double the states energy production, in part by investing in nuclear energy. While Utah boasts some of the cheapest energy in the country, Rocky Mountain Power proposed a 30% rate increase in July. Housing: In 2023, Cox appointed Steve Waldrip as the first senior adviser for housing strategy. A flurry of housing bills passed in 2024 seeking to simplify regulations, subsidize home ownership and incentivize starter-home construction with the goal of building 35,000 homes in five years. However, Waldrip said the fruit of these efforts is many years off. Following the June Republican primary debate for governor, Cox said his biggest regret from his first term was his inability to do more on what he says is his top issue: housing affordability. After three years of passing dozens of bills meant to increase the supply of starter homes in Utah, none of them really made a dent, Cox lamented. This is the single most important issue in our state. At least two dozen United Airlines employees fell ill after eating company-provided meals at Denver International Airport on Christmas Day. Twenty-four employees reported symptoms consistent with food poisoning after United Airlines passed out nearly 500 holiday meals to workers last week, according to local officials with the Association of Flight Attendants union. This illness has not impacted the companys operation, a United Airlines spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement United is monitoring reports from some employees about gastrointestinal symptoms following holiday meals served to Denver employees last Wednesday, and we are in contact with health authorities, the spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent. The union previously reported that more than 200 employees fell ill before amending their count to just 24, local outlet Denver7 reports. United Airlines is now monitoring reports of the illnesses reported by employees who ate the meals at Denver International Airport (Getty Images) While there is no way to know for sure if this was food poisoning since there are viruses going around that produce similar symptoms, local [airport] management have assured methey will be monitoring this issue, said Chris Bruton, the unions local executive council president for Denver International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Norovirus, an extremely contagious virus that causes similar symptoms to food poisoning, is surging in the US this holiday season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the country, according to the CDC. A United Airlines employee who reported nausea and diarrhea after eating the meal told Denver7 he and other workers were concerned about calling out sick. The employee, whose name was withheld by the outlet, said the airline has a strict holiday sick leave policy and requires a specific doctors note, also known as a Holiday Absence Certificate, within 48 hours of calling out. If they dont meet this requirement, the employee said, they could face repercussions like performance warnings. The union told employees that if they report symptoms consistent with food poisoning after eating the meals, they will not be required to fill out a Holiday Absence Certificate if they need to remain home from work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its one of the busiest times of year for travel companies. The American Automobile Association predicts 119 million people will travel at least 50 miles away from home between December 21 and January 1. Meanwhile, the trade group Airlines for America said US airlines will carry around 54 million passengers from December 19 to Monday, Jan. 6, an increase from 2023. It will be a happy new year for Joseph Shepard, the outgoing president of Western New Mexico University (WNMU), who is scheduled to receive a $1.9 million lump-sum payment on January 15 as part of a severance package after resigning amid allegations of "wasteful" and "improper" spending. Under the agreement, which the public university's five-member Board of Regents unanimously approved on December 20, Shepard, who had been receiving about $415,000 annually in salary and bonuses as WNMU's president, will step down into a tenured position paying him $200,000 a year to teach a couple of business classes each semester. The salary is guaranteed for at least five years, adding another $1 million to the cost for taxpayers. That sweetheart deal for Shepard came a month after a scathing report from New Mexico State Auditor Joseph M. Maestas highlighted $214,000 in travel spending that violated WNMU's own policies, along with another $150,000 or so in improper charges on university credit cards. One example of the former: The university spent $25,500 in taxpayer money for six staff members to undergo training at a Ritz-Carlton resort in Palm Springs, California. Searchlight New Mexico, which has been digging into WNMU's spending practices for more than a year, notes that the same course was available online. The state auditor's report, which covers July 1, 2018, through June 30, 2023, describes "$214,261.91 worth of spending covering 402 instances of domestic and international travel and lodging for university staff and leadership" that were "found to be noncompliant with university policies and rules." It also cites "$149,264.08 worth of spending" on university credit cards by Shepard "covering 91 instances of procurement," including noncompliant purchases of "high-end custom furnishings" for Shepard's house on the WNMU campus in Silver City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maestas notes trips by Shepard that were covered by the university even though they "appear[ed] to be unrelated to official university business." They included "trips related to other noneducational organizations [with] which the President is affiliated, such as the Finca Vigia Foundation, dedicated to saving author Ernest Hemingway's Cuban legacy, and for conferences and events where his spouse [former CIA officer Valerie Plame] was a guest speaker." The investigation "found that the travel requests and travel reimbursements provided by WNMU for the University President and members of the Board of Regents during the period" were "consistently noncompliant with university policies." The report cites many cost-control deficiencies, including international travel "lacking any documentation articulating the business need, purpose, justification, or authority for the travel." The audit also found meal expenditures and upgrades in seating, amenities, and lodging that likewise were "lacking any documentation articulating the business need or purpose." While traveling on the taxpayer's dime, Maestas notes, Shepard improperly used his university credit card to buy "alcohol, food or room service." Although the university "was subsequently reimbursed for the disallowed purchases with private funds by the university's Foundation," the report says, WNMU "appears to have affirmatively disregarded its policy and allowed the initial use of public university funds rather than private foundation funds" for those purchases. The report notes Shepard's "use of a university credit card to purchase high-end custom furniture" at a total cost of about $25,000. Although Plame was not a WNMU employee, she was issued a university credit card, which she used to buy an "oriental sofa" from Etsy for $1,488.27 and to pay $4,073 for a purchase from the fireplace company Woodland Direct. Maestas notes that "the University's purchasing card holder agreement applies to university employees" and "requires approval of their supervisor," while "any violation of the agreement references sanctions which can only be enforced on university employees." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a November 18 letter to Board of Regents President Mary E. Hotvedt, Maestas said WNMU had "engaged in the waste of public funds" through "excessive or extravagant domestic and international travel," "improper use of procurement and university credit cards," and "expense accounts and purchasing cards" for "a non-University employee." He described "an appearance of management overreach and a lack of a strong 'tone at the top'" at WNMU. "Without the proper example being set by the University's management and Board, which is fundamental to an effective internal control system, any disincentives for university employees to engage in inappropriate or extravagant travel spending are limited or removed," Maestas wrote. "Further, University management and Board failed to uphold their fiduciary responsibilities by neglecting to adhere to the corresponding elements as established in the University's policies, procedures, and rules regarding travel, per diem, and procurement." Maestas noted that WNMU, in response to reports of improper spending, had "taken proactive steps to strengthen the University's internal control structure" and "engage in an external forensic special audit to further review these and related issues." But he warned that "complacency or indifference to oversightexposes the University's governing body and leadership to the threat of further waste" and "opens the door for potential fraudulent acts to occur, each of which negatively impacts the university and its finances." Responding to the report, Hotvedt thanked Maestas for his "time and insights," which she conceded raised "serious concerns." But she said those concerns "have been addressed" by a "comprehensive review of cost disparities," policy updates that "align with applicable state guidelines and regulations," "revised travel and procurement procedures," "staff training to ensure compliance," and "an independent cost-benefit analysis of international initiatives." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shepard, for his part, has defended his lavish spending as necessary to support fundraising and recruitment of foreign students. During the period covered by the state audit, Searchlight New Mexico notes, "international students made up less than 2 percent of the university's entire student body," although that share "has grown by a small amount" since then. On the day that the Board of Regents approved his severance package, Shepard complained that he had not received "due process" from the state auditor's office. "I leave my post not in defeat, but with a deep understanding that it is the right thing to do, to advance that which I dearly love," he said. Stephanie Rodriguez, New Mexico's secretary of higher education, called Shepard's resignation "long overdue," adding: "I have been and remain deeply troubled about the reports of gross negligence and mismanagement of taxpayer funds at Western New Mexico University. The health and stability of WNMU moving forward will require further examination and accountability." Given that the regents were implicated in wasteful spending along with Shepard, it is not surprising that they were keen to quash the scandal, even at the cost of another $3 million in squandered taxpayer money. The Santa Fe New Mexican notes that the regents sealed the deal "without ever mentioning the amount of public money Shepard will receive." But news of the severance package provoked outrage among members of WNMU's faculty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keen to act before Shepard gets his payout, the WNMU Faculty Senate scheduled a meeting for this Thursday to consider a vote of no confidence in the Board of Regents and a demand for the resignation of all its members. "We call upon our state elected officials to work to remove any who will not resign, in accordance with the Constitution of the State of New Mexico," a draft of the statement says, "and to use any legal authority at their disposal to halt the recent severance agreement" with Shepard. Phillip W. Schoenberg, president of the Faculty Senate, noted a "unanimous request" for the meeting from "the voting faculty [at] the School of Business," who "feel particularly outraged by the severance agreement." They complained that the regents had offered Shepard the consolation position in their school without consulting anyone there. "The decision to approve such a substantial payout to a president who has been the subject of past accusations of financial misconduct" is "troubling," said Jorge Romero-Habeych, an assistant professor at the business school. "Furthermore, the package appears to be a clear conflict with the everyday struggles faced by average New Mexicans, many of whom are living paycheck to paycheck and rely on the institution to serve the public good. The optics alone are damaging, and the ethical implications cannot be ignored." Update: On Tuesday, the Albuquerque Journal reports, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham "asked for the immediate resignation of all of WNMU's regents 'to help ensure that Western New Mexico University will be able to regain its equilibrium and once again serve its students first and foremost.'" The post A University President Accused of Squandering Public Money Resigns in Exchange for a $2 Million Payout appeared first on Reason.com. For the record: 10:04 a.m. Jan. 2, 2025: A previous version of this story said the mayor of Chula Vista was invited to testify in a House Judiciary Committee hearing. The mayor of Vista was invited. Unlawful border crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border have dropped to a four-year low, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with 46,610 people stopped between ports of entry in November. The number of illegal crossings that month marked an 18% decrease from the previous month, and the lowest level since July 2020, the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our enhanced enforcement efforts, combined with executive actions and coordination with Mexico and Central American countries in recent months, are having a sustained, meaningful impact," said Troy A. Miller, the acting head of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Between June and November, the Department of Homeland Security removed more than 240,000 people, according to the agency. In fiscal year 2024, the department also removed more than 700,000 from the country, more than any prior year since 2010. The numbers represent something of a turnaround for the Biden administration, which faced major political backlash for a surge in illegal crossings earlier in Biden's term. Trump slammed Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for the increases. Immigration experts attribute the drop in border encounters people stopped trying to cross in areas between ports of entry to multiple factors, including what they said is the current administration's "carrot-and-stick" approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the Biden administration, officials have encouraged migrants to turn themselves in at ports of entry, launching an app to make appointments as they travel through Mexico. It has also discouraged illegal entries between ports of entry, by making those who attempt to enter the country in that manner ineligible for asylum. Read more: Inside a flawed immigration system: Millions of undocumented workers and a verification program that few use The sharp decrease comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump is set to be sworn in, bringing with him an administration that has made cracking down undocumented immigration a top priority. During his campaign, Trump and his top advisors characterized the southern border as out of control and under "invasion," and promised mass deportations. In a Time interview, Trump vowed to mobilize the military to help deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have people coming in at levels and at record numbers that we've never seen before," Trump said. "I'll do what the law allows. And I think in many cases, the sheriffs and law enforcement is going to need help. We'll also get National Guard. We'll get National Guard, and we'll go as far as I'm allowed to go." The recent border crossings figures paint a somewhat different picture, however. Border Patrol agents on the ground have reported a drop in the number of crossings for the last seven months, according to the agency, with a 60% decrease occurring between May and November. Read more: California races roiled by border, immigration. It could tip control of the House Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials at the Department of Homeland Security have also touted that the number of people processed for removal has doubled in recent months. The CBP One app allows migrants traveling through Mexico to make appointments at ports of entry, discouraging them from trying to enter the country through deserts in between to avoid U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents, said Michelle Mittelstadt, spokesperson for the Migration Policy Institute. The administration also issued an order making those who make illegal crossings ineligible for asylum, and encouraged the governments of Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica to increase migration controls in their counties. "November marked the first time ever that a majority of encounters were migrants arriving at a port of entry rather than being intercepted after crossing the border without authorization proof that this carrot-and-stick approach was taking effect," Mittelstadt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the decrease in border encounters, the incoming Trump administration has continued to promise an aggressive approach to deportations, and some have threatened sanctuary cities and states with consequences if they stand in the way. Read more: Poll: Immigration debate deeply divides California Democrats Tom Homan, acting director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement during the first Trump administration and "border czar" appointee for the second, has called for increased workplace raids. He told Fox News that cities that refuse to help federal immigration agencies could face criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you knowingly conceal or harbor an illegal alien from a police officer, it is a felony, he said. Marisa Cianciarulo, dean of Irvine's Western State College of Law and an expert on immigration and refugee law, said recollections of family separations and detentions during the first Trump administration, as well as recent threats of mass deportations, could also be playing a temporary role in discouraging migrants. "I think we're seeing a kind of preemptive response to the new administration," she said. "There's fear and anxiety, and they're going to look for other means to support their families." Trump's incoming deputy chief of staff for policy, Stephen Miller, also sent out letters to a number of California officials, cities and counties, warning them of possible consequences if they interfered with immigration enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Bonsall) and other members of the House Judiciary Committee held a field hearing in San Diego County on the border crisis, inviting mayors of Santee and Vista, law enforcement officials and residents to provide testimony. In his opening statement, Issa, whose district includes large portions of San Diego County, said that while there are people who legitimately seek asylum and have worked toward entering the country legally, there are millions who have entered the country illegally. "It is our goal to restore the rule of law and recognize that we can have legal immigration in our country but only if we can control the border, " he said. Issa could not immediately be reached for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the hearing, Santee Mayor John Minto said that the Biden-Harris administration's approach to border security and immigration was affecting not only the state but San Diego County, which was at the forefront of the issue. He said that between September 2023 and May 2024, San Diego County received up to 154,000 street releases of migrants, many of whom were placed in trolleys and sent to the eastern region of the county. "These unofficial figures underscore the unprecedented and grave scale of the region's border crisis," he said. "The influx of migrants has drained local resources, including overcrowding at local hospitals, prompting San Diego County officials to respond with a coordinated effort involving federal, state and regional support." Minto could not immediately be reached for comment. Earlier this month, San Diego County passed a new policy that would prevent jail officials from cooperating with immigration officials in any way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy went beyond the state's current law, which allows local jurisdictions to notify immigration officials when someone convicted of certain violent or sexual felonies is set to be released from jail. Under the new policy, San Diego would not provide release dates to federal officials. The policy has triggered a standoff between county supervisors and the San Diego County Sheriff, who said she would continue to cooperate with federal immigration officials as state law allowed. California officials anticipate conflict with the new administration. California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta has called the letters from Miller's America First Legal a "scare tactic." Bonta said the state is preparing for legal challenges. But Cianciarulo warns that punitive policies on migrants tend to have only temporary impacts. If economic and political factors push people out of their home countries, and they're lured by the prospect of work in the U.S., migrants will eventually take the risk. "Regardless of how strict the laws are, how punitive, we still come back to the fact that immigration is an economic reality," Cianciarulo said. "[Migration] is not an emotional type of decision." Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Happy Tuesday, and welcome to another edition of Rent Free. This week's newsletter closes out the year by looking at the latest homelessness census released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which found a staggering increase in the number of people living on the streets or in shelters. Number of People Without a Roof Over Their Head Goes Through the Roof This past Friday, HUD released the results of its Point-in-Time (PIT) countan annual census of the homeless population conducted each January by local homeless service providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2024 numbers are not pretty. According to the HUD survey, 771,480 people were homeless in January 2024. Of those, 497,256 were "sheltered" homeless, meaning they were sleeping in an emergency shelter or transitional housing. Another 274,224 people were "unsheltered" homeless who slept outside, in vehicles, abandoned buildings, or other areas not fit for human habitation. The top-line figure represents a remarkable 18 percent increase in the country's homeless population. That increase is even more shocking when one considers that the country's homeless population grew by 19 percent between 2007 and 2024. Near two decades' worth of growth in the homeless population occurred between 2023 and 2024. That top-line figure obviously masks a lot of yearly ups and downs. Nevertheless, the numbers are moving decidedly in the wrong direction, and fast. Breaking Down the Numbers The huge rise in the homeless population is attributable to related increases in the sheltered homeless population and the number of homeless families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the 118,376 additional homeless people counted in 2024, 100,762 (or 85 percent of the total) were sheltered. This represents a 25 percent annual increase. The 2024 PIT found that the unsheltered population grew by 17,614, which represents a 7 percent increase. That significant, albeit less severe, increase is effectively a continuation of the steady pre-pandemic rise in the unsheltered homeless population. Conversely, the sheltered homeless population boom is both a huge increase and a reversal of the trend line. The sheltered homeless population had been on a steady decline in the years before the pandemic. Shelter populations plummeted even more during COVID-19 as shelters slashed capacity as a social distancing measure. This fall was significant enough to push down the overall homeless population, even as the unsheltered homeless population was rising. Similarly, the 2024 PIT count found a record 39 percent annual increase in homeless families with children. The population of homeless individuals grew by a more modest 9.6 percent. The veteran homeless population was the only group to see a decline, dropping by 7.6 percent. Migrant Surge, Homeless Surge The HUD report notes that 13 Continuum of Care (COC) organizations (the local federally funded groups that provide homeless services and perform the PIT) saw a large influx of migrants into their shelter system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HUD attributes the massive increase in homelessness to a range of factors, including rising housing costs, the belated expiration of some pandemic aid programs and eviction moratoriums, the end of the child tax credit, and "systemic racism." One reason stands out above the rest: the recent influx of migrants to major northern U.S. cities. "You combine the increase in family homelessness and the increase in sheltered homelessness, it looks like this is overwhelmingly driven by the migrant surge," says Judge Glock, director of research for the Manhattan Institute. This is most obviously the case in New York City, which has a longstanding, robust "right-to-shelter" policy, and has seen its emergency shelter population grow from 55,677 in 2022 to 81,108 in 2023 to 132,892 in 2024during which time the city received some 225,000 new migrants and asylum seekers. New York City's COC attributes 88 percent of the increase in sheltered homelessness to asylum seekers. And the increase in New York City's homeless population accounts for roughly 40 percent of the national increase in the homeless population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cities like Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., which all have robust right-to-shelter policies and which have been primary destination cities for new migrants, also reported some of the largest jumps in their homeless populations, Glock notes. Chicago's COC reported that most of the increase in its homeless population was a result of newly arriving migrants and asylum seekers. Kevin Corinth of the American Enterprise Institute notes that 75 percent of the increase in sheltered homelessness over the past two years can be attributed to rising shelter populations in Massachusetts, metro Denver, New York City, and Chicago. One-Off Increases, Chronic Problems The number of migrants in big-city shelter systems is already falling, thanks partly to smaller influxes of new migrants and cities' own curtailment of shelter benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were 69,000 migrants in New York's shelter system in January 2024 when this year's PIT was performed, The New York Times reported. That's since fallen to 55,000. A lingering question is whether this will merely shuffle currently sheltered homeless migrants into unsheltered street homelessness. The Times reported earlier this summer on a rise in tent encampments in the city, populated by migrants who'd been evicted from the city's shelter system after staying the new maximum of 30 days. Glock says right-to-shelter policies also pull people into the shelter system and into free temporary housing where they're counted as homeless. Places without right-to-shelter policies have lower overall rates of homelessness, suggesting migrants exiting shelters will find housing on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HUD says that the January PIT likely captured sheltered homeless populations near their peak and that those numbers are declining. We'll have to wait until December 2025 to know for sure if that's true. The huge, likely migrant-driven increase in the sheltered homeless population obscures the more depressing, humdrum reality from the 2024 HUD homeless report: the number of people sleeping on the streets is at record levels and continues to rise. Homelessness continues to increase in almost every state in the country. That includes West Coast states that have not experienced a New York Citylike migrant surge and already have among the country's worst rates of homelessness. This steady rise in homelessness has occurred even as federal funding for homeless programs has steadily increased under the Biden administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's no coincidence that homelessness continues to rise as housing continues to get more expensive in the country. Lower housing costs correlate with lower rates of homelessness. In the places where homelessness is worst, housing costs continue to rise. We can expect homeless problems to continue to rise with them in the new year. Quick Links Earlier this month, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that the city of North Las Vegas, Nevada, rejected the nonprofit Tunnels to Towers plan to build a privately funded 112-unit housing complex for low-income veterans on a vacant five-acre lot across the street from a Veterans Affairs hospital. The city argued that the location was a poor fit and thus declined to rezone the commercial property to allow the proposed housing. Housing inventory (the total number of homes available for sale) is at the highest it has been since November 2020, reports listing company RedFin. Last week, a judge ruled that the City of Los Angeles illegally tried to prevent a housing developer from using the city's streamlined development process known as ED1 to build a 220-unit project in a single-family neighborhood. LAist has the details. Mobile home prices are on the rise, reports Fortune. California massively undershoots Gov. Gavin Newsom's campaign trail goal of building 3.5 million new homes by 2025. The post Unprecedented Rise in Homelessness appeared first on Reason.com. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) A team of U.S. investigators including representatives from Boeing on Tuesday examined the site of a plane crash that killed 179 people in South Korea while authorities were conducting safety inspections on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by the countrys airlines. All but two of the 181 people aboard the Boeing 737-800 operated by South Korean budget airline Jeju Air died in Sunday's crash. Video showed the aircraft, without its landing gear deployed, crash-landed on its belly and overshoot a runaway at South Koreas southern Muan International Airport before it slammed into concrete fence and burst into a flame. The plane was seen having an engine trouble, and preliminary examinations also say the pilots received a bird strike warning from the ground control center and issued a distress signal as well. But many experts say the landing gear issue was likely the main cause of the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The South Korean government has launched safety inspections on all the 101 Boeing 737-800s in the country. The Transport Ministry said authorities are looking at maintenance and operation records during five days of safety checks that are to run until Friday. The ministry said that a delegation of eight U.S. investigators one from the Federal Aviation Administration, three from National Transportation Safety Board and four from Boeing made an on-site visit to the crash site on Tuesday. The results of their examination werent immediately available. Kim E-bae, Jeju Airs president, told reporters Tuesday that his company will add more maintenance workers and reduce flight operations by 10-15% until March as part of efforts to enhance the safety of aircraft operations. John Hansman, an aviation expert at MIT, said the crash was most likely the result of a problem with the planes hydraulic control systems. He said that would be consistent with the landing gear and wing flaps not being deployed and might indicate a control issue which would explain the rush to get on the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Boeing 737-800 -- an earlier version of 737 than the Max -- is a widely used plane with a good safety record, according to Najmedin Meshkati, an engineering professor at the University of Southern California who has studied aviation safety. He said the failure of the planes system for broadcasting location, operating its landing gear and extending the wing flaps to slow down indicate a widespread problem that affected electrical and hydraulic systems. He is confident that investigators will learn what went wrong by analyzing information from the flight data and cockpit voice recorders. These are really the two pillars for accident analysis and accident reconstruction, Meshkati said. Like other aviation experts, Meshkati also questioned the location of a solid wall just a few hundred feet (meters) past the end of the runway, given that planes occasionally do overshoot runways. Having such a big concrete barrier over there was really very bad luck for this particular airplane, he said. South Korean officials have said they will look into whether the Muan airports localizer a concrete fence housing a set of antennas designed to guide aircraft safely during landings should have been made with lighter materials that would break more easily upon impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash was the deadliest disaster in South Koreas aviation history in decades. A seven-day national mourning has been declared until Jan. 4. The Transport Ministry said Tuesday that authorities have identified 175 bodies and are conducting DNA tests to identify the remaining five. Bereaved families said that officials told them that the bodies were so badly damaged that officials need time before returning them to relatives. On Tuesday, Park Han Shin, a representative of the families, accused the government of failing to provide freezers on time as promised and said there are worries that the bodies could decompose. The last dignities of the victims are seriously hurt. We strongly criticize authorities for failing to keep its promise, Park said. __ Associated Press writer David Koenig in Dallas contributed to this report. Three people were fatally shot and a teenage boy was left in a coma after an attack on an American family visiting Mexico, authorities said Monday. Brothers Vicente Pena Jr., 38, and Antonio Tony Fernandez, 44, were visiting Durango, Mexico, from their home in Chicago over the weekend, local NBC affiliate WMAQ reported. They were traveling with Penas 14-year-old son, who has not been publicly identified. The three Americans met another relative, 22-year-old Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre, in the city about 300 miles west of Monterrey, according to WMAQ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But cops said the group of four was attacked while driving in a GMC Yukon with Illinois license plates on Friday night in Durangos Las Palmas neighborhood, WMAQ reported. It was a massacre ... because my son was shot four times in the head and once in the shoulder, and the other boy was also shot four times, once in the shoulder, and the other boy who was with them was also shot three times, Vicente Pena Sr. told the station. Pena, Fernandez and Vargas Aguirre were all fatally shot. The 14-year-old boy remained in a coma in a Mexican hospital on Tuesday. No suspects have been arrested or identified, and investigators were unsure whether the attack was random or targeted because the victims were American. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durango is not considered one of the most violent states or cities in Mexico, according to the U.S. State Department. It is listed on the departments website at the same risk level as Mexico City. However, a portion of the state is officially off limits to U.S. government employees, and that portion includes the citys Las Palmas neighborhood where the family was attacked. A US federal court has upheld a civil judgement against US President-elect Donald Trump for sexual abuse, a court document published on Monday showed. A New York jury had deemed it proven last year that Trump had attacked, sexually abused and later defamed US author E Jean Carroll in a prestigious New York department store in 1996. He was ordered to pay compensation totalling $5 million. Trump subsequently filed an appeal. The real-estate entrepreneur, who was not yet active as a politician in the mid-1990s, has consistently denied the allegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the criminal charges had already expired, the then 81-year-old Carroll could still pursue civil action. In 2023, the jury classified the incident as sexual abuse but did not find Carroll's accusation of rape by Trump to be substantiated. The federal court in New York has now rejected the appeal by Trump, who is set to begin his second term as US president on January 20. It stated that the 78-year-old could not prove that the district court made an error in its judgement. Additionally, his rights had not been infringed to the extent that a new trial would be justified. The court also found the inclusion of testimonies from women who had accused Trump of sexual misconduct in the civil trial to be justified, as well as the use of an old audio recording in which Trump made lewd and degrading remarks about women, stating that one could grab women "by the pussy" if one were a star like him. All this, they said, demonstrated a pattern of behaviour. A US federal court has upheld a civil judgement against US President-elect Donald Trump for sexual abuse, a court document published on Monday showed. A New York jury had deemed it proven last year that Trump had attacked, sexually abused and later defamed US author E Jean Carroll in a prestigious New York department store in 1996. He was ordered to pay compensation totalling $5 million. Trump subsequently filed an appeal. The real-estate entrepreneur, who was not yet active as a politician in the mid-1990s, has consistently denied the allegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the criminal charges had already expired, the then 81-year-old Carroll could still pursue civil action. In 2023, the jury classified the incident as sexual abuse but did not find Carroll's accusation of rape by Trump to be substantiated. The federal court in New York has now rejected the appeal by Trump, who is set to begin his second term as US president on January 20. It stated that the 78-year-old could not prove that the district court made an error in its judgement. Additionally, his rights had not been infringed to the extent that a new trial would be justified. The court also found the inclusion of testimonies from women who had accused Trump of sexual misconduct in the civil trial to be justified, as well as the use of an old audio recording in which Trump made lewd and degrading remarks about women, stating that one could grab women "by the pussy" if one were a star like him. All this, they said, demonstrated a pattern of behaviour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for Trump announced further appeals and spoke of a political misuse of the justice system, according to media reports. Trump had already declared in 2023 that he considered the trial to be a fraud and a politically motivated "witch hunt." Carroll's lawyer reportedly told US media that she and Carroll were very pleased with Monday's decision. In January this year, a jury awarded Carroll another compensation payment of over $83 million for statements Trump made about her during his first term as president, in a second defamation trial. Trump had also appealed against this ruling, and a decision is still pending. The US military on Tuesday said it has hit targets in Yemen, targeting the Iran-backed Houthi militia. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said its warships and aircraft attacked a number of sites, including a command centre and facilities used for the production and storage of weapons. The buildings reportedly held missiles and drones used in Houthi attacks on the US Navy and international merchant ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A radar facility and several of the militia's cruise missiles were also destroyed in the attacks on Monday and Tuesday, CENTCOM said. "The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region," the command said on X. The Houthi-affiliated television station al-Masirah reported at least 10 attacks by the US and United Kingdom in Yemen. Two of the strikes were reportedly aimed at the Houthi Defence Ministry in the capital Sana'a. Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam described the attacks as a "blatant breach of the sovereignty of an independent state." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia, the Houthi are allied with Israel's arch-enemy Iran. Since the beginning of the Gaza war, the Houthi have repeatedly fired rockets at Israel and at merchant ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Hamas. The US military on Tuesday said it hit targets in Yemen targeting the Houthi militia, hours after the Iran-backed group launched attacks on Israel. The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said its warships and aircraft attacked a number of Houthi-linked sites, including a command centre and facilities used for the production and storage of weapons. The buildings reportedly held missiles and drones used in Houthi attacks on the US Navy and international merchant ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A radar facility and several of the militia's cruise missiles were also destroyed in the attacks on Monday and Tuesday, CENTCOM said. "The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region," the command said on X. The Houthi-affiliated television station al-Masirah reported at least 10 attacks by the US and Britain in Yemen. Two of the strikes were reportedly aimed at the Houthi Defence Ministry in the capital Sana'a. Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam described the attacks as a "blatant breach of the sovereignty of an independent state." Houthis attack Tel Aviv Like Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia, the Houthi are allied with Israel's arch-enemy Iran. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the beginning of the Gaza war, the Houthi have repeatedly fired rockets at Israel and at merchant ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Hamas. On Tuesday, the militia claimed to have attacked the international airport in Tel Aviv as well as targets in Jerusalem. Houthi military spokesman Yehya Saree said in a televised statement that Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport and an electricity plant in the Jerusalem area had been attacked with ballistic missiles. He also claimed that a "major air attack" by the US military with drones and cruise missiles had been repelled. "We are ready to confront any Zionist-American threats aimed at preventing Yemen from fulfilling its religious, moral and humanitarian duty towards Palestine," the military spokesman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military said that its air defences had intercepted a missile fired from Yemen. Hundreds of thousands of people rushed to shelters shortly before midnight when sirens sounded in the coastal city of Tel Aviv and other places in central Israel. The missile was intercepted outside Israel's borders, it said. According to local media, falling rocket debris did not cause any major damage, but a large fragment hit a road in a town near Jerusalem. Do you have thoughts on the future borders of Colorado Springs? The public is invited to comment on AnnexCOS, the city's draft annexation guidelines, at an open house on Jan. 13. "Annexation guidelines are important for city leaders so they can better understand how a city can grow, said Katie Carleo, the citys land use review division manager, in a statement. The new annexation guidelines will focus on "more fiscally sustainable and resilient land use" according to the statement. The comprehensive plan for the city passed in 2019, PlanCOS, called for an update of annexation policy last created in 2006. Annexation has been a major topic of conversation at the Colorado Springs City Council in 2024, with the board accepting then quickly reversing its decision on the annexation of a 3,200 acre planned residential development known as Amara in unincorporated El Paso County in August. The rejection axed plans for up to 9,500 new homes in the city limits. The council in October heard preliminary plans for another large annexation that would bring 6,500 new homes to 2,000 acres close to Schriever Space Force Base. The development, like Amara, would be a "flagpole" annexation to land not currently bordering the city limits. Featured Local Savings A timeline for the project, including any formal decision-making on the part of the city, has not yet been finalized. PlanCOS calls for new annexation policy to enact "limited but strategic additional outward expansion of city limits," including adding existing enclaves surrounded by the city. Colorado Springs currently has a land area of approximately 200 square miles. The internal working committee, in charge of overseeing development of new annexation policy, includes two city council members and two city planning commission members. According to the city website, approval of the final guidelines is expected to happen in March of 2025. The open house will be from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the City Administration Building (30 S. Nevada) in Room 102. Additional information on the city's annexation plan update and update process is available on the city's website. The text of the draft plan will be available after the Jan. 13 meeting. Homicides across the United States are poised to plummet for the third straight year as 2024 winds down, driving the nation's annual murder toll down to levels not seen since before the pandemic, according to preliminary data from cities both large and small. Based on available crime statistics from U.S. law enforcement agencies, the year is expected to end with a nearly 16% drop in homicides nationwide and a 3.3% decline in overall violent crime, Jeff Asher, a national crime analyst, told ABC News. The dramatic drop in homicides surpasses a 13% decline in 2023, then the largest decrease on record until now. In 2022, the number of murders across the country fell 6%, according to the FBI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three consecutive years of declining homicides come in the wake of a 30% jump in murders between 2019 and 2020, the largest single-year increase in more than a century. PHOTO: People gather to pay their respect the day after the mass shooting at Apalachee high school in Winder, Georgia, Sept. 5, 2024. (Peter Zay/Anadolu via Getty Images) "Considering where we were just three or four years ago, we're basically looking at 5,000 fewer murder victims than in 2020, 2021 and 2022 having occurred in 2024," said Asher, co-founder of AH Datalytics and a former crime analyst for the CIA and the New Orleans Police Department. In contrast, a dozen major U.S. cities broke annual homicide records in 2021. Philadelphia -- which recorded an all-time high of 562 homicides in 2021, 516 in 2022 and 410 last year -- has seen a 40% drop in homicides in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other major cities seeing precipitous reductions in homicides this year are New Orleans, down 38%; Washington, D.C., down 29%; Memphis, Tennessee, down 23%; Baltimore, down 24%; Kansas City, Missouri, down 20%; and Los Angeles, down 15%. PHOTO: Major cities with the biggest murder drop (AH Datalytics) New York City, the nation's largest city, had recorded 357 homicides through Dec. 15, a 7.3% drop from 2023, according to New York Police Department crime statistics. The city -- which tallied 442 murders in 2020, a 45% jump from 2019 -- has seen homicides fall 15% over the past two years. Chicago has recorded a 7% decline in homicides as of Dec. 15, down from 603 murders at this time last year, according to the Chicago Police Department's crime data. Over the past three years, homicides in Chicago have fallen 29% after skyrocketing 55% between 2019 and 2020 to 769 murders. Homicides this year in 63 cities with populations of more than 250,000 declined by at least 15% and murders were down at least 19% in 246 cities with populations under 250,000, Asher's research found. PHOTO: Police investigate a mass shooting that erupted on June 2, 2024, that left one man dead and 28 people injured at a large street party in Akron, Ohio. (ABC News/WEWS) "It's a tremendous achievement in terms of how far murder has fallen in just really two straight years," Asher said. Property crime plummets In addition to violent crime falling, property crime is also poised to finish the year down 8.6% nationwide, mostly due to a 21.4% decrease in motor vehicle theft, Asher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Auto thefts went up 12% last year. They're coming down more than 20% this year," said Asher, who added that the 2023 spike in car thefts appears to be tied to social media instruction videos on how to steal certain models of Kias and Hyundais. PHOTO: Falling U.S. violent crime numbers in 2024 (AH Datalytics) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crunching the numbers Since 2016, Asher has crunched the numbers for an end-of-the-year report on crime trends. This year, his report is based on preliminary crime statistics from 309 U.S. law enforcement agencies, the most data he has ever received. Asher's analysis aligns closely with data released in May by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing murders down 14%. The Gun Violence Archive, a website that tracks all shootings across the nation, shows homicides are down around 11%. "We kind of put all those together and we see a very large decline in murder, a very large decline in gun violence happening in the U.S. in 2024 on top of what was a very large decline in murder and a very large decline in gun violence in 2023," Asher said. PHOTO: Falling U.S. property crime numbers in 2024 (AH Datalytics) Referring to overall violent crime, Asher said, "You're probably looking at, if not the lowest violent crime rate since 1970, certainly at or around where we were pre-pandemic." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides homicide, rape was down 4.5% from 2023, robberies fell 1.1% and aggravated assaults declined 3.7%, according to Asher. The falling numbers come amid a backdrop of high-profile violent crimes in 2024, including more than 400 mass shootings, two assassination attempts on President-elect Donald Trump and the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson allegedly by 26-year-old Ivy League graduate Luigi Mangione, who police suspect was out to strike fear in the insurance industry. PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP) The numbers also come just days after a 15-year-old girl allegedly carried out a shooting rampage at her Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin, killing a teacher and a classmate, and injuring six other students before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said. The Wisconsin shooting came three months after a 14-year-old boy allegedly killed two students and two teachers, and injured nine others at his high school in Winder, Georgia, with an AR-style weapon police alleged his father gave him as a Chrismas present. 'We have turned the tide against violent crime' During a Dec. 10 briefing of the Justice Department's Violence Crime Reduction Steering Committee meeting, Attorney General Merrick Garland said preliminary crime data showed significant declines in violent crime in 85 cities in 2024, including a 17.5% drop in homicides nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Over the past two years, we have turned the tide against the violent crime that spiked during the pandemic," Garland said. He said the numbers build on the historic drop in homicides nationwide last year, which he said was the lowest level of violent crime in 50 years. MORE: 'I feel terrified': Inventor of 'Glock switch' technology says he regrets creation Merrick attributed the tumbling violent crime rate partly to the DOJ's Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap, a one-stop-shop created to assist local jurisdictions in developing, implementing and evaluating the strategies to prevent, intervene and respond to acts of community gun violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Biden's administration has also sought to curb gun violence in recent years through executive actions and signing into law in 2022 the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which enhanced background checks for gun buyers under the age of 21, allocated $750 million to help states implement "red flag laws" to remove firearms from people deemed dangerous to themselves and others. Biden also established the in 2023 the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to focus on ways to assist states and cities reduce the nation's epidemic of gun violence. Some cities such as Philadelphia have credited the work of violence interrupter programs, community-based initiatives that use peacebuilding methods to head off incidents of violence before they occur. MORE: Homicide numbers poised to hit a record decline nationwide. But most Americans think murder is on the rise Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Philadelphia, city leaders also pointed to a $184 million investment in gun violence initiatives in 2022, including one that attempts to identify people who are at risk of being involved in violence to provide them with mental health services or job placement. While the city also boosted the Philadelphia Police Department's budget that year by $30 million, it instituted a violence prevention plan that emphasizes a combination of law enforcement strategies, environmental improvements and youth programs to reduce its homicide numbers. "We need to continue pressing forward with our comprehensive approach, which is prevention, intervention and enforcement," Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said at a Nov. 1 news conference on the city's falling homicide numbers. In October, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed six bills to strengthen New Yorks gun laws, including one requiring gun sellers to post tobacco-style safety warnings and another that cracks down on illegal devices called "switches" that convert semiautomatic handguns into automatic weapons. Asher said that in 2020 and 2021 when violent crime rose to alarming levels, programs such as community violence interruptors didn't exist and the budgets of many police departments were getting slashed in the defund-the-police movement stemming from nationwide protests over the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asher said states and local governments, as well as philanthropies, are pumping money into programs to bring down violent crime. "Some of that is undoubtedly contributing to what we're seeing now," Asher said. "I'm not naive enough to suggest that that's the entire explanation. There are undoubtedly a multitude of factors that help to explain this complex problem." ABC News' Calvin Milliner contributed to this report. US poised to see dramatic drop in homicides for 3rd straight year originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The US Treasury Department says it was the target of a Chinese cyberattack, according to US media. In a letter to members of Congress cited by US media on Monday, the department said that on December 8, it was informed by a software company that a hacker had obtained remote access to workstations of government employees and documents on them. The documents were not classified as secret, it said. A Chinese state-sponsored actor was behind the "major cybersecurity incident," the Treasury Department said in the letter, according to the New York Times and other major outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Based on available indicators, the incident ha s been attributed to a China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor," the New York Times cited the letter as saying. The Chinese Foreign Ministry rejected the accusations against Beijing and stated that there was no evidence for them. China has always rejected all forms of hacking and rejects the dissemination of false information against China for political purposes, said spokeswoman Mao Ning in Beijing. The US has been accusing China of state-sponsored hacking for years, which China has always denied. In October it was reported that Chinese hackers targeted the telephone data of US President-elect Donald Trump then still a presidential candidate and his running mate J.D. Vance. The US Department of the Treasury on 31 December announced sanctions against individuals from Iran and Russia for involvement in meddling in US elections. Source: US Department of the Treasury, as reported by European Pravda Details: The sanctions target the Cognitive Design Production Center (CDPC), a subsidiary organisation of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The CDPC is alleged to have planned influence operations since at least 2023, aiming to incite socio-political tensions within the US electorate ahead of the 2024 elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Russia, sanctions were imposed on the Moscow-based Center for Geopolitical Expertise, linked to Russian military intelligence (GRU) and founded by Eurasianist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin. The centres director, Valeriy Korovin, was reportedly involved in attempts to interfere in US presidential elections. The centre is accused of spreading fake AI-generated videos and manipulative content on social media, including materials discrediting Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz. Quote from Bradley Smith, Acting Deputy Treasury Secretary: "The governments of Iran and Russia targeted our electoral processes and institutions, attempting to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns." Background: In summer 2024, US intelligence warned of foreign adversaries' plans to influence the November 2024 presidential elections, adapting their operations to domestic political events. In September, the US sanctioned the leadership of the Russian propaganda channel RT. Support UP or become our patron! The U.S. Department of Defense on Monday announced that Guantanamo Bay detainee Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi had been repatriated to Tunisia, a transfer that leaves 26 detainees at the U.S. facility in Cuba. Yazidi arrived at Guantanamo Bay the day it opened on Jan. 11, 2002, and was never charged. He was handed over to the Tunisian government, the Pentagon said in a press release on Monday. "On Jan. 31, 2024, Secretary of Defense (Lloyd) Austin notified Congress of his intent to support this repatriation and, in consultation with our partner in Tunisia, we completed the requirements for responsible transfer," the press release said. PHOTO: In this April 17, 2019, photo, reviewed by U.S. military officials, the control tower is seen through the razor wire inside the Camp VI detention facility in Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba. (Alex Brandon/AP) MORE: 'The Longest Shadow': Guantanamo Bay and a new rulebook for a new war Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The transfer came days after the Pentagon announced the repatriations of three other detainees, as the Biden administration pushes to reduce the number of people held at the notorious facility. The Pentagon said in a press release earlier this month that Mohammed Farik bin Amin and Mohammed Nazir bin Lep, who are both Malaysians, were sent to their home country to serve the remainder of a 5-year sentence imposed in June. Officials had also announced the transfer of Mohammed Abdul Malik Bajabu to Kenya. MORE: Pentagon announces 3 transfers out of Guantanamo, leaving 27 detainees Fourteen of the remaining 26 detainees are eligible for transfer, according to the Pentagon. Another three are eligible for periodic review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The United States appreciates the support to ongoing U.S. efforts toward a deliberate and thorough process focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility," the Pentagon said in a statement announcing Bajabu's repatriation earlier this month. The cases of seven other detainees are ongoing under military commissions, the tribunal process under which detainees are tried. Two detainees have been convicted and sentenced by those commissions. ABC News' Luis Martinez contributed to this report. US transfers Guantanamo detainee to Tunisia, leaving 26 at Cuba facility originally appeared on abcnews.go.com (Bloomberg) -- A growing roster of political figures, US government agencies and companies that provide critical services have one thing in common: They have allegedly been hacked by China. Most Read from Bloomberg The latest victim is the US Treasury Department, which disclosed on Monday that Chinese state-sponsored hackers had breached its network via a third-party provider, accessing some unclassified documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While details of the hack remain scant, cybersecurity experts say it confirms what US intelligence officials warned earlier this year, that China is the most active and persistent cyber threat to US government, private-sector and critical infrastructure networks. The Russians get a lot of attention because of the use of disruptive cyberattacks, said Adam Segal, director of the Council on Foreign Relations Digital and Cyberspace Policy Program, referring to Russia-linked hacks on the largest fuel pipeline in the US and a satellite network in Ukraine. But the Chinese are the longer-term threat because of their technology and the scope and scale of their operations. Chinese officials have long denied US allegations of state-sponsored cyberattacks, and a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the claims that its behind the Treasury hack unwarranted and groundless. China opposes all forms of hacking, and in particular, we oppose spreading China-related disinformation motivated by political agenda, spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters during a news conference in Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US officials, however, have been increasingly pointed in their criticism of Chinas cyber threats and have vowed further punitive actions. Just days before the Treasury hack was publicized, a White House official said the US had identified a ninth telecommunications company that was impacted by a vast spying campaign blamed on China. Not all the victims have been publicly identified but AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. acknowledged being hit as part of the spying campaign. The hackers accessed communications belonging to a limited number of people in government and politics that included then presidential candidate Donald Trump, his running mate Senator JD Vance and Vice President Kamala Harris campaign staff. China was also accused in 2023 of breaking into the email accounts of key government officials including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and, according to the Wall Street Journal, US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It remains one of the most serious problems in this relationship, Burns said in an interview with Bloomberg News earlier this month, adding that Chinese officials echo their public statements in closed-door meetings. They deny theres any Chinese cyber aggression undergoing, and that is absolutely not the case. Cui Hongjian, a former Chinese diplomat who teaches at Beijing Foreign Studies University, said hacking accusations between the US and China reflect a lack of mutual trust. From Chinas view, the US is accusing China more and more frequently and deliberately smearing Chinas image, he said. While both sides attach importance to cybersecurity and see the other as a major threat, cyberattacks are more like a scraping accident than a head-on collision in other policy areas, such as Taiwan, so the situation remains manageable, he said. Cybersecurity experts disagree on whether the frequency of Chinese hacks has gone up in recent years, or if more are simply being detected and publicly acknowledged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many agree that Chinas cyber capabilities have vastly improved and that its focus has shifted. Nearly a decade ago, for instance, Chinese state-sponsored hackers stole personal data on millions of government employees from the US Office of Personnel Management, according to authorities. China was also accused of hacking Equifax, Marriott hotels and the health insurance company Anthem to amass huge troves of data on Americans information with economic and intelligence value that can feed Chinas development of artificial intelligence tools, then US Attorney General William Barr said in 2020. US officials also blamed China for stealing intellectual property from US companies in agriculture, biotech, health care, aviation, robotics and semiconductors, some of it via cyberattacks. More recently, US officials have warned that Chinese hackers are trying to burrow into networks of companies that service critical parts of the economy, positioning for disruptive or destructive cyberattacks in event of a major crisis or conflict with the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas hacking capacity has been helped by building a talent pipeline running through world-class cybersecurity schools, said Dakota Cary, a consultant focused on China at the cybersecurity firm SentinelOne. China now has many more hackers than it did a decade ago, allowing the state to carry out more attacks against a wider array of targets, Cary said. Segal, of the Council on Foreign Relations, said Chinas hackers used to be like a burglar knocking on every door in the neighborhood to see which one is open. These days, he said, they can bypass home security, enter a house and lurk undetected. Financial, energy, and water companies will continue to feel the brunt of these attacks as China attempts to exploit vulnerabilities and plant malicious code to be executed at a later date, said Brian Harrell, the former assistant secretary for infrastructure protection at the US Department of Homeland Security. Many intrusions have been discovered, but I will guess that most have not. --With assistance from Jamie Tarabay and Colum Murphy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. The News The US Treasury said its systems were breached by Chinese state-sponsored hackers earlier this month, a claim Beijing described as groundless. Washington said the attackers gained access to employee workstations and viewed some unclassified documents by hacking a third-party technical support service used by the department. China denied any involvement, saying it has always opposed all forms of hacker attacks. Cyber warfare has been increasing in recent years: In March, the US and Britain accused another Beijing-backed group of hacking millions of people over more than a decade, including journalists and academics, while other hackers apparently targeted US President-elect Donald Trumps phone and that of his running mate in October. One cybersecurity analysis site said cyberattacks in Q2 2024 were up 30% on the same period a year earlier. The US Treasury has been hacked by China-backed actors in what the agency called a "major cybersecurity incident." Hackers accessed "certain unclassified documents" through Treasury workstations, wrote a Treasury official. The US is also probing years-long hacking from China. Microsoft named the group "Salt Typhoon." China-backed hackers have accessed some US Treasury Department computers, the agency told Congress in a letter on Monday. The Treasury learned of the hacking on December 8 when BeyondTrust, a third-party software provider, notified the agency that a hacker had gained access to a key used by BeyondTrust to get into a cloud-based service that provided remote technical support. Aditi Hardikar, the Treasury's assistant secretary for management, wrote in the agency's letter that the hackers accessed "certain unclassified documents" through Treasury workstations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The breach is considered a "major cybersecurity incident," wrote Hardikar. The hackers do not still have access to the agency's information, per her letter. The Chinese embassy in Washington DC hit back at the accusation, saying in a statement to Bloomberg that the US was making "smear attacks against China without any factual basis." "The US needs to stop using cybersecurity to smear and slander China, and stop spreading all kinds of disinformation about the so-called Chinese hacking threat," added the Chinese embassy. The embassy did not immediately respond to a Business Insider request for comment outside regular business hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A BeyondTrust spokesperson told BI that a "limited number of customers" were involved in the security incident. The customers have been notified and offered support, he added. Georgia-based BeyondTrust holds over $4 million worth of federal government contracts, according to a Bloomberg compilation of government data. The news of the Treasury's hacking comes as the US government continues to probe what US security officials say is a a years-long hacking campaign that originates in China. The investigation started in the summer following alerts from Microsoft, which named the hacker group Salt Typhoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House Deputy national security advisor Anne Neuberger told reporters earlier this month that while data belonging to millions of Americans was likely compromised, the hack targeted senior US officials. "We believe the calls they recorded and took was really more focused on very senior political individuals," she said. Read the original article on Business Insider As we come to the end of 2024, we have the opportunity to pay tribute to those Utah politicos we lost throughout the year. Whether they held elected office or supported those who did, they left a mark on Utah and a huge hole in their families hearts. Ted Wilson Ted Wilson, a former three-term mayor of Salt Lake City and former longtime director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, died on April 11 at age 84. He served as mayor from 1976 to 1985, then left to begin what would be an 18-year stint as director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, from which he retired in 2003. He also taught in the political science department during that time. In 1982, he challenged incumbent Orrin Hatch in a high-profile Senate race, and in 1988, he ran for governor, losing to Republican Norm Bangerter by fewer than 12,000 points. His is survived by his wife, Holly, seven children (five with his first wife, Kathryn, and two stepchildren) and 13 grandchildren. George Stewart Former Provo Mayor George Stewart died on April 22. Stewart was a man driven by the desire to serve others, whether that was his family, his church or his community. He retired the first time at age 50 so he could spend more time with his wife, Jo Anna, and their 11 children He worried he would die at age 53 like his father. Instead, just before George turned 55, he was elected as the mayor of Provo. He returned later to serve on the city council, then stepped down mid-term to serve a church mission with his wife. He was reelected to the city council in 2016, just before he turned 77. He was 84 when he died. Chris Cannon Former Utah Congressman Chris Cannon died on May 8 at age 73. He represented Utahs third congressional district from 1997-2009. Cannon was born in Salt Lake City on Oct. 20, 1950. He received an undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University, and subsequently a law degree. He also attended Harvard Business School. Prior to running for Congress, he was an associate solicitor for the Department of the Interior, from 1984-1986. He played a significant role in acquiring Geneva Steel from U.S. Steel. In 1996, he defeated Democrat Bill Orton by four points and went on to be reelected five times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1999, Cannon was a member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, and became one of 13 House managers who prosecuted the case against President Bill Clinton in his impeachment trial. He became the chair of the Commercial and Administrative Law Subcommittee in January 2003 and held that position until he left office. He is survived by his wife, Claudia, and seven of their eight children. Howard Madsen Sunset Mayor Howard Madsen died on May 8 at age 73. Madsen served for many years with the Utah Highway Patrol and then as a Summit County dispatcher. He was the mayor of Coalville City from 2002 to 2006 and became the mayor of Sunset City in 2018. His fellow city leaders called him the heart and soul of Sunset City and said he was more than just a politician he was a friend. He is survived by his wife, Connie, six children, 30 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Peter Knudson Peter Knudson died on June 5 at the age of 86. He served as a Brigham City city councilman from 1974-1978, and then as mayor from 1978-1990. He was elected to the Utah House in 1995 and then to the Utah Senate in 2002, where he served for nearly two decades. He was also a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, and was the sponsor of a 2016 bill that created a special license plate for combat veterans. He also helped create Vietnam War Memorial Day in Utah. He was an orthodontist by training and helped create the School of Dentistry at the University of Utah. He is survived by his wife, Georgie, four children and six grandchildren. Dave Buhler Dave Buhler, a long-time presence in Utah politics, died on July 16. His obituary highlights his lengthy political resume. He served on the staff of U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch from 1979 to 1984, was a member of Gov. Norm Bangerters senior staff from 1984 to 1988, and managed Bangerters successful reelection campaign in 1988. He served as Executive Director of the Utah Department of Commerce from 1989 to 1992. He was then recruited to be vice president over the Western states for the National Assessment Institute for eight years. He concurrently served as a Utah state senator from 1994 to 1998. Dave returned to public service when he was appointed associate commissioner of higher education in 2000. During that time he also served, from 1999 to 2007, on the Salt Lake City Council, which included two terms as council chair. From 2012 to 2019, he was Utahs eighth commissioner of higher education. He then taught political science at the University of Utah, where he was popular among students. He is survived by his wife, Lori, four of their five children and nine grandchildren. Jesse Bell Bountiful city councilman Jesse Bell died on Aug. 13 after a 14-month battle with glioblastoma. He was 47. Bell served as chairman of the Bountiful Trails Advisory Committee from 2013-2021, served on the planning commission and joined the city council in 2022. His obituary notes that he loved nature and community and his role as a landscape architect blended both passions. He is survived by his wife, Cami, and four of their five children. Karen Mayne A longtime fixture in the Utah Senate, former Sen. Karen Mayne died from a 2 1/2 year battle with brain cancer on Aug. 15 at age 78. She joined the Utah Senate in 2007, following her husband, Ed, who also died from cancer. Together, the Maynes represented Salt Lake Citys west side for almost 30 years. In 2018, she was elected as the Senate minority leader, a position she held until she stepped down from the Utah Senate in January 2023. She spent 20 years as a para-educator in Granite School District, and served as vice-president of the Utah AFL-CIO. She is survived by her three children and six grandchildren. Mike Dmitrich A fixture for 40 years in the Utah Legislature, former state representative and senator Mike Dmitrich died Sept. 30, just three weeks shy of his 88th birthday. He served 22 years in the Utah House, including seven years as House Minority Leader, then 18 years in the Utah Senate, where he also served seven years as the Senate minority leader. In 2009, the Utah Legislature renamed a portion of Highway 6 in Carbon County the Mike Dmitrich Highway in his honor. After a bit of a kerfuffle a few years later, that was renamed the Mike Dmitrich Byway. Dmitrich is survived by his wife, their three children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ralph Okerlund Former Utah state Sen. Ralph Okerlund passed away on Oct. 9 at age 72. His obituary notes that Ralph loved to serve his community. He began serving in local government as a volunteer fireman and later a Monroe city councilman in 1980. He then became mayor for two terms, Sevier County commissioner for three terms and served as a Utah state senator for 12 years. His community service totaled more than 30 years. He served as the Senate majority leader from Jan. 28, 2013, to 2020. In 2014, Okerlund suffered a heart attack and collapsed at the Capitol and was rushed away by ambulance. He eventually had both heart and kidney transplants in 2018. He continued to serve in the Utah Legislature until retiring in 2020. He is survived by his wife, Cindy, three children and 10 grandchildren. Christopher McKay Longtime politico Christopher McKay died on Nov. 17, one day before his 55th birthday. Raised in Salt Lake City, he found a passion for politics and spent his life in the political arena. He worked alongside Doug Foxley as a lobbyist assistant, and his involvement in local and national campaigns was extensive. Chris was the Utah state campaign coordinator for Sen. Bob Doles presidential bid and later served as chief of staff to Rep. Chris Cannon. The last 20 years of his career were spent as a vice president of federal government affairs for Verizon and in private practice with the Bennett Group. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and their two children. JoAnn Ipson JoAnn Ipson, wife of Utah Sen. Don Ipson, passed away on Nov. 27, at age 77. She worked with her husband at DATS Trucking as office manager and director of payroll and accounts receivable. She also volunteered her time with the PTA, the Sterling Scholar program, the Lions Club and other civic and religious organizations. She is survived by her husband, four children, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Don Ruzicka Don Ruzicka, husband to Utah Eagle Forum president Gayle Ruzicka, died on Dec. 6 at age 86. A longtime presence in Utah politics, Don worked from a home office that allowed him to be close to home and family. He attended many state Republican conventions, as well as national conventions, including the 2024 national convention in Milwaukee. He is survived by his wife, Gayle, eight of their 12 children, 26 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. RIVER FALLS Through the help of a grant, schools, students and instructors in parts of the St. Croix Valley region and beyond will be able to get some educational support when it comes to computer science. Through a three-year $550,786 National Science Foundation grant, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, UW-Eau Claire and UW-Stout will work in a partnership to train local high school teachers by having them conduct research in computer science and later develop materials to teach their subject. Our goal is not for them to be doing research after this, but to take what they have learned and build a curriculum module for their computer science classrooms back in their home schools, said Anthony Varghese, chair of the Computer, Information and Data Sciences Department at UWRF. They come over to our campuses, either River Falls or Eau Claire; we show them how the research is done, and then after that they spend a couple more weeks going over how educational research is done so they can go over things on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Varghese said the experience is named Research Experiences for Teachers, or RET. While Varghese trains instructors on UWRFs campus, Rahul Gomes, associate professor in computer science at UWEC, will act in a similar role on campus in Eau Claire. Then, Katrina Rothrock, assistant professor of mathematics at UWEC, and Abhimanyo Ghosh, assistant professor in engineering and technology at Stout, will help to lead a three-week session in Menomonie where teachers will learn how the educational research can be conducted and implemented into their curriculum. The hope is that they spread this knowledge of how computer science works to their communities, said Varghese. Mainly to high school students of course, but hopefully beyond that too We have a lot to learn from teachers themselves, because they can tell us about these kinds of things that they run into as far as teaching computer science in high school. Merry Mclaird, director of grants and research at UWRF, said in a press release, This project will bring computer science research to the communities in this region, providing high school students with enhanced data analysis skills going to work in local communities. Each cohort of teachers who transfer their research experience back to their schools and their communities will yield hundreds of high school students capable of thinking more deeply about the relevance of computer science in their local community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a hope that working with local instructors will help towards the approach of computer science, whether that is with new technologies or the general understanding of its components. Furthermore, it may also be able to have an indirect impact on the regions economy with how technology is taught and understood by both instructors and students. Just being able to use computers, see how computers work under the hood and get an idea of how things really work I think is good for the community, said Varghese. Once we start getting a more skilled workforce, they will be ready for jobs of the future. Moving forward, the program is intended to be built on and work with the existing partnerships between area high schools and the three universities. Varghese said they are excited to be progressing with support from the National Science Foundation grant, and that the support is a good sign they are on the right track. While it has been over nine months since Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill exempting the General Assembly from much of the state's open meetings law, the angst over the lack of transparency resulting from the law is far from having cooled. Even the Colorado Press Association, which had worked to make the bill less onerous, criticized the General Assembly in a hearing Monday on Senate Bill 24-157. The law required legislative leadership to hold the hearing, which the governor signed on March 13, the first day of National Sunshine Week. This week is intended to highlight the importance of public records and open government. The state's open meetings law has been in place since 1972. It requires any state or local public body to conduct the public's business in public and make public its meetings, which can be as few as two members of that body. Public notice must be given, and minutes must be taken. However, lawmakers claimed the law impedes their ability to have open and sometimes frank conversations that they wouldn't always want to be made public. It's led to the use of electronic communications, such as text messages, disappearing messaging apps, and secret meetings that are not divulged to the public or the media. Meetings can be by phone, electronic, or other means of communication. The legislation did three things: Created a definition of public business, which was not previously defined in state law. Under SB 157, matters that are interpersonal, administrative, logistical, or concerning personnel, planning, process, training, or operations are not considered public business. Established that for discussions of public business, such as legislation, a quorum of a committee or body would constitute a meeting that would have to be publicly announced and with minutes, but "serial" communications would not. In that situation, three committee members could talk to a bill sponsor, each separately, which would not be considered a public meeting. The third says any form of written communication, electronic or otherwise, that is exchanged by two or more members of the General Assembly is not subject to the open meeting law. Still, those records would be subject to the state's open records law. House Speaker Julie McCluskie of Dillon, one of the prime sponsors of SB 157, said she "remains committed to values around transparency and openness" and that she believed the legislature does as well. "We're doing all we can to facilitate good communication and healthy debate," she said. In the wake of SB 157's passage, a coalition of open government advocates has been discussing fixes to it. The coalition, dubbed "Team Transparency," has drawn in people and groups from across the political spectrum, including Citizens for a Safe and Clean Denver, the League of Women Voters, the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, and the Independence Institute. Nineteen people signed up to testify Monday, many from the coalition and all opposed to SB 157. "I'm watching you constantly on behalf of minorities and the poor," said Missy Espinoza of Denver. "I dont feel youve been transparent." Kevin Dale, executive editor of Colorado Public Radio, told the committee now is not the time to weaken either the state's open meetings law or open records act, given the polarized era and the lack of trust in institutions such as government or the media. The public deserves to understand the inner workings of the legislature, and the press needs to have access to not just the public votes but also how lawmakers reach those decisions. SB 157 "weakens that ability and makes it easier for those discussions to happen in private," he said. The Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition, the state's watchdog on governmental transparency, was excluded from crafting SB 157. Executive Director Jeff Roberts reminded lawmakers that the law states that public policy formation may not be conducted in secret. But that happened in August, before the special session on property taxes, when lawmakers used SB 157 to keep the public from knowing how they were crafting the legislation that came out of that session. As reported by the Colorado Sun, Democrats in the House and Senate held two caucus meetings to discuss the upcoming special session, meetings that were closed to both the Colorado Sun and the Denver Post. Roberts said lawmakers were given copies of the proposed legislation during those caucus meetings. "How could legislative meetings on a topic like property taxes not fit public business?" he asked. This fosters mistrust and suspicion, Roberts told the committee. "While it may let lawmakers work more efficiently, the public may be less trustful and supportive of the outcome if they're not included." Using disappearing messaging apps and lacking guardrails around emails allows public business to be hidden from public view, he added. Roberts noted that the coalition is considering both a legislative solution and the potential for a constitutional amendment. "In order for us to evaluate you when you do your job, we need information," said Cory Gaines of Logan County. Blocking certain kinds of information hampers citizens' ability to do their jobs. He alleged multiple attempts have been made to hide what happens in the Capitol from ordinary citizens. "Transparency is not what I would use to describe what happens in this Capitol," Gaines said. He called SB 157 "the crowning turd" on a pile that included secrecy around quadratic voting and disappearing text messages. He agreed with Roberts that the law makes work more efficient, but "I question whether efficiency is the target you ought to be aim for. And I think that we deserve better than we've gotten thus far." Featured Local Savings McCluskie defended the access granted to the media by the legislature, allowing reporters on the floor and holding media avails. She asked Dale what more they could do. Dale responded that this law is not just for the media. It hurts the public, too. "We need to understand how decisions are made." That also led to a conversation about a failed bill in the 2024 session on the open records law, which included a records retention policy of just 60 days. Dale advocated for retention that lasts the entire time someone is in office. McCluskie also defended the caucus meetings, noting that those meetings included conversations around ballot measures that are not part of public business. But in the wake of the criticism, "we have taken it upon ourselves to post meetings where we have been talking about policy," she said, even when no bills were introduced. However, Roberts noted there were no recordings or minutes of those meetings. "I do think it leaves more questions than answers for people," he said. Valdamar Archuleta, who ran for Congress in 2024, said he did not believe the lawmakers' intent with SB 157 was "nefarious. But you need to consider how it looks to the public." He acknowledged the need to modernize laws but said this legislation discourages people and leads them to believe that government is corrupt. The League of Women Voters also testified strongly against SB 157 during the 2024 session and now advocates for its repeal. Andrea Wilkins said the law allows legislators to be less transparent, keeping them out of the public's and voters' view. "We do not support expediency at the expense of transparency," Wilkins said. Beth Hendricks, the League's Colorado executive director, pointed out the flaw in moving written communications, including electronic messaging, to the Open Records Act. "It's difficult to make a CORA request when you don't know what's going on." The Colorado Press Association was among only two organizations allowed to provide input on the bill during the legislative process. However, they also acknowledged the problems the law created during the summer. CPAs Tim Regan-Porter told the committee they had "serious concerns" about how these changes played out and that CPA was also concerned about the potential for abuse. "We were assured this was not the intent, but reporters were excluded from meetings," he said. Regan-Porter said the legislature should, at minimum, amend the law and reaffirm its commitment to government transparency. "These practices erode trust," he added. Another area that lawmakers have failed to address is live streaming of committee meetings, despite at least four years of having the technology in place to do it, according to Bart Miller, chair of the board of the Colorado Channel Authority. The Authority broadcasts the proceedings of the House and Senate but only for floor work. Cameras are in committee rooms, and witnesses have been able to testify remotely since before the pandemic. He told the committee that legislative audio in the committee rooms is antiquated and of poor quality. The authority's board has written to the legislature yearly to prioritize video streaming, which the executive committee must approve. Not once since 2016, when they started asking if they had ever gotten a response, Miller said. He said Colorado is one of only two states that does not live-stream its committee meetings. "The resources are already there." The estimated cost, likely for a part-time legislative council staffer, is about $28,000. "Seeking to grow government in order to hold government accountable may or may not be beneficial," said Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen of Monument. Linda Hutchinson of the League of Women Voters outlined the problems resulting from SB 157. It did not consider unintended consequences that she said are detrimental to democracy. The legislation lacked safeguards against serial "or daisy chain" meetings among legislators. And while it was intended only for the General Assembly, those changes could be sought by other governmental bodies. Hutchinson said the public is left to speculate based on incomplete or inaccurate information, which results in misinformation. The law allowed the General Assembly to discuss what might have been public business without public scrutiny. "That is nothing less than a reduction in transparency when compared to the Colorado Open Meetings law" before SB 157. "Would you even be holding this meeting if it weren't required by law? I doubt it," said Valerie Leal of Denver, calling the hearing "performative theater." The committee did not take any action and offered little comment on the witnesses' chastising of the legislature over the law. Lundeen, who noted he was a "no" vote on the bill, said lawmakers have to find out how to do the public's business in front of the public in a way that still preserves the fact that creating legislation is very relational" and sometimes leads people to say "stupid" things or change positions. The law passed with no Republican votes and six "no" votes from House Democrats. There were also concerns about the hearing itself, scheduled during the holidays and on a day when some witnesses said most people could not come to the Capitol. The legislation requires a hearing by Dec. 31; two more are required at the end of 2025 and 2026. VALDOSTA, Ga. (WSAV) The Valdosta Police Department (VPD) is asking for the publics help locating a 16-year-old wanted for his involvement in yesterday mornings homicide on Stillwater Drive. On December 30, 2024, at approximately 3:10 am., VPD officers responded to the 700 block of Stillwater Drive, after E911 received several calls about gunshots in the area. One caller stated that someone appeared to be lying on the ground near a vehicle. Once officers arrived, they found the victim, a 41-year-old male, unresponsive on the ground. The male had obvious signs of trauma and was later pronounced deceased at the scene. Valdosta Police Department Detectives have identified Damirie Washington, 16 years of age, as being involved in the homicide. Detectives have obtained arrest warrants for Washington for the offenses of: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Felony murder Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Washington is described as an African American male, 56 in height, 135 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Currently, Washingtons location is unknown. He should be considered armed and dangerous. If anyone knows his location, please call 911. If anyone has any further information on this case or any other cases, please contact the Valdosta Police Department Bureau of Investigative Services at 229-293-3145, the crime tip line at 229-293-3091, or file a tip online at this link. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Two people linked to a hit-and-run in Vancouver were arrested last Friday and now face numerous charges for other crimes, police said. The two people, Kalla L. Huntley and Michael A. Cavagna, were taken into custody during a coordinated effort from patrol officers with the Crime Reduction Unit and the Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit. Both suspects were booked into the Clark County Jail for the hit-and-run an RV that ran into a parked Nissan Xterra at E. 29th and Q Street, police told KOIN 6 News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescue teams gear stolen hours after finding men who died Sasquatch hunting Vancouver PDs Kathy McNicholas said one of their officers was in the area and saw the incident play out. It appears that the driver and passenger may have switched or someone in that RV switched spots, McNicholas told KOIN 6 News. And her good observation skills through the investigation (led to) the arrest made of both parties. Huntley, 38, was also booked on four counts of unlawful possession of a gun, 4 counts of unsafe storage and sexual exploitation of a minor. Two people arrested for a hit-run also faces gun and sex charges, December 30, 2024 (VPD) Two people arrested for a hit-run also faces gun and sex charges, December 30, 2024 (VPD) Cavagna, 42, also faces 4 counts of unlawful possession of a gun and possession of a stolen gun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While they will go through the criminal justice system, the owner of the Nissan, Brad Andrews, is now dealing with insurance. Its just been a pain, Andrews told KOIN 6 News. I just took it in for their estimate, and he said it would be totaled. Brad Andrews parked Nissan was totaled by a hit-run driver in Vancouver, December 30, 2024 (KOIN) His Xterra, although almost 20 years old, was in excellent shape. So Im going to end up the loser on it. Just days before the RV slammed into his Nissan, his wifes car was also hit and cost him $2300. Im concerned about the cost of my insurance going up, even though I wasnt responsible for it, Andrews said. Hes thankful for the Vancouver police arresting two people and he hopes theyll be held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I didnt do anything wrong and now Ive got to pay the price, Andrews said. I think the only way youre going to change this type of behavior is by making people responsible for what theyre doing. If theyre if theyre not held responsible, whats the incentive to change? Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) Nearly a million cubic yards of sand will be put down between 15th and 45th streets at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront as part of a $20.2 million beach replenishment project, the first time the city has undertaken such a project in more than five years. (Photo courtesy of city of Virginia Beach) Previously: $22M beach replenishment coming to Virginia Beach Oceanfront for hurricane protection The project, beginning this week but with an official start in early 2025, is a mitigation and environmental sustainability effort to restore eroded coastal areas that have been damaged by severe storms, waves, winds and flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is contributing $13.13 million of the $20.2 million total, with the city contributing $7.07 million. The city said taxpayer dollars would be saved because the sand will be dredged from the nearby Atlantic Ocean Channel in Norfolk. The city last carried out a beach replenishment project in 2019, and it said it is following its replenishment implementation schedule of doing so every five to seven years to protect and preserve the citys coast. The city estimates that the $20.2 million in investments it has made since 2002 has prevented more than $1 billion in storm-related damages. Manson Construction Co. is the contractor for the beach replenishment project. The replenishment sand will be taken from the Atlantic Ocean Channel offshore in Norfolk by using a hopper dredge vessel, through a submerged pipeline and then putting it on the beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city said that by depositing imported, beach-quality sand along the shoreline, the replenishment can raise or expand a beach, while also directing the shoreline seaward. It said earth-moving equipment would grade the beach into place at a length of 300 to 500 feet per day, depending on the weather and the equipment. For more information about the citys beach nourishment program, go here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz says his office is making progress in its investigation into an Abington homicide, which included seizing a vehicle on Monday. A blue, Hyundai Sonata was located and seized in Taunton as part of the investigation, according to authorities. On December 27, police say 43-year-old Anthony Leverone was found unresponsive in his backyard at 563 Plymouth Street around 7:30 p.m. after a well-being check was called in earlier by his family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was pronounced dead at the scene, and investigators determined Leverone died of blunt-force trauma and high-impact injuries. The DAs office says theyve conducted multiple interviews and executed several search warrants on cell phones as part of the investigation. Although no suspect names or descriptions were provided, authorities say the people of interest involved were previously acquainted with the victim. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine a cause and manner of death for Leverone. Anyone who has information that may help the investigation is urged to contact Massachusetts State Police at 508-894-2584. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) Venezuelas Supreme Court on Monday issued a $10 million fine against TikTok for not implementing measures to prevent viral video challenges that have allegedly led to the deaths of three Venezuelan children recently. Judge Tania DAmelio said TikTok had acted in a negligent manner and gave it eight days to pay the fine, while also ordering the video service company to open an office in Venezuela that would supervise content so that it complies with local laws. The judge did not explain how Venezuela would force TikTok, whose parent company is based in China, to pay the fine. Venezuela has blocked dozens of websites in previous years for not complying with regulations set by its telecommunications commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press. In November, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blamed TikTok for the death of a 12-year-old girl who allegedly died after participating in a TikTok challenge that involved taking tranquilizer pills and not falling asleep. Venezuelas Education Minister Hector Rodriguez also said last month that a 14-year-old died after taking part in a TikTok challenge that involved sniffing substances. And on Nov. 21, Venezuelas attorney general blamed video challenges on TikTok for the death of a third child. Dozens of radio stations and television channels have been taken off the air in Venezuela under Maduro over their news coverage. More than 60 websites belonging to human rights groups and news companies were blocked at different times this year, according to VE Sin Filtro, a group that tracks media freedoms in the South American country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August, Venezuela banned the social media platform X as thousands of Venezuelans took to the streets t o protest the re-election of Maduro. The Venezuelan government initially banned X for 10 days, after Maduro accused its owner Elon Musk of using the social media platform to orchestrate attacks against Venezuela. Musk had accused Maduro of rigging the July 28 election, which the United Nations and the Carter Center, an organization that monitors elections around the world, said did not meet international standards. X can now be accessed on privately run internet providers in Venezuela, but it is still blocked by Venezuelas state owned internet provider Movilnet. ___ Rueda reported from Bogota, Colombia The states only EMS academy has one goal to keep Vermonts talent in Vermont. The training school, established in 2022 with the help of state grants, is designed to address the challenges that budding paramedics face such as the cost of education and access to in-state schooling. Drew Hazelton, the Chief of Operations at the academy and Chair of Vermonts EMS Advisory Group, tells me that the need for emergency services has only grown in the state, but the workforce has largely stayed stagnant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont have enough EMS providers to meet the current workforce demand. In Vermont particularly, as we watch our demographic age, the demand on services continues to increase, said Hazelton. Emily Wilson, the Program Director, says their paramedic training curriculum, which has been in development for over a year, received approval in November. She says the 18-month-long program will involve in-person lectures and hands-on labs twice a week, with an additional 600 hours of field work to boot. Our students will be walking in after receiving their certification and theyll be ready to go and be highly trained paramedics, said Wilson. Hazelton, who worked as a paramedic for over 26 years, says while the course and the job itself may seem daunting, it can lead to a rewarding career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It allows us to connect with people that are having some of the worst days of their lives, and in many cases, bring calm to a very chaotic situation, he said. Wilson says she is hoping the academy could welcome its first cohort of students by early February if they get enough enrollments. The application is due on January 10. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. Only one state has disability coverage parity, in which mental health conditions are covered in the same way as physical health conditions: Vermont. In the other 49 states, long-term disability benefit claims for physical ailments cancer, arthritis, stroke are assessed differently than mental health issues major depressive disorder, anxiety, PTSD and eating disorders. For 99% of group disability plans sold in the United States, long-term disability benefits for a behavioral health condition max out at 24 months, often leaving those with severe and persistent mental health symptoms in dire straits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the Journal Sentinel previously reported on its analysis of five years of lawsuits, filed between 2019 and 2023 in Wisconsin federal district courts, over the denial of long-term disability benefits claims. More than one-third involved workers with mental health conditions. Yet it's estimated that less than 10% of all claims are related to mental health issues. That means the number of lawsuits involving mental health issues claims was far out of proportion, and indicates a much higher denial rate for them. The Journal Sentinel also reported that it examined legal filings associated with dozens of independent medical professionals tied to Wisconsin cases and involved in thousands of cases nationally. It then talked with patients, doctors, insurers and attorneys. The data showed a clear incentive to tip the scale toward denying disability insurance coverage for mental health issues, often from medical professionals who were not licensed in the state, were not actively practicing, or were not specialists in the area they were reviewing. Why is Vermont the outlier? The first draft of what would become Vermont's approach was written by clinical psychologist Ken Libertoff on a snowy evening at his kitchen table in Montpelier. It was the mid-1980s, and mental health and substance use disorder parity in the state was still a decade away. But Libertoff, who has since passed away, understood the terrible void among Vermonters struggling with mental health symptoms, as he told one local outlet, as republished by The Free Library. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elizabeth Costle, Vermonts commissioner to the Department of Financial Regulation, in 1997 signed a more refined version of Libertoff's health insurance parity proposal into Vermont law. Then, in 2008, Commissioner Paulette Thabault issued a bulletin, Vermont's way of setting policy and informing the public. More: Physically disabled? No problem. Mentally disabled? Coverage is limited, harder to get. More: Erick Vertein lost his home when an insurer declined his mental health leave request, for one reason Thabault's bulletin determined that limitations imposed by disability carriers were also discriminatory. Specifically, the bulletin disallowed the practice of limiting mental health disability coverage to 24 months. In other words, the coverage would extend as long as a patient needed it the same as for a physical disability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the same year that Vermont removed long-term disability coverage limitations on mental health conditions, the U.S. passed its first federal health parity law, The Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. Although momentous, disability carriers have continued to find loopholes, which has translated to people paying billions of dollars out of pocket to access the health care they need, according to Neera Tanden, the White House domestic policy council director. Kevin Gaffney serves as the Vermont commissioner to the Department of Financial Regulation. Parity in the disability insurance industry, Gaffney said, improves the quality of the workforce, enabling residents to access treatment and work toward recovering from a behavioral health condition. Are the fears of parity legitimate? Vermont officials have found that insurance parity isn't just good policy because it clears the way for access to health care regardless of whether a person's problem is physical or mental. They've found it also makes economic sense because it gets people healthy and back into active working roles in society. "When you have equal and ready access, and access that limits hurdles, that can save the system money over time," said Kevin Gaffney, Vermont's commissioner of the Department of Financial Regulation. "People can get the services they need and the benefits they're entitled to." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of Vermont's 2008 bulletin, disability carriers lobbied Vermont Commissioner Thabault to halt signing the parity bill into law. They warned of a steep rise in insurance costs, as much as 25%. The higher costs never materialized. Phil Keller, who served as Vermonts director of Rates and Forms from 2008 to 2014 and the director of Insurance Regulation from 2015 to 2022, testified before the ERISA Advisory Council. Not once during those seven years (as director of Insurance Regulation) was I made aware of complaints from either consumers or agents that the cost of disability insurance had risen because of the required coverage of mental health conditions, Keller told the Council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple examiners confirmed Keller's experience. An attorney with the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts reviewed eight years of disability rate filings in Vermont by five major insurers and found coverage for mental health conditions "had little or no impact on the pricing of disability policies," Keller testified. Julie Su, the acting U.S. Secretary of Labor, speaks at Wellpoint Care Network on West Capitol Drive in Milwaukee on Sept. 9. National and state leaders convened to discuss mental health parity. 'The laws are only as good as enforcement' Fifteen years after Vermont made parity the norm, the 2023 Employee Retirement Income Security Act, or ERISA, advisory council completed a yearlong investigation into the question of expanding disability benefits for people with mental health conditions nationally. The Council recommended the Department of Labor promote the elimination of the 24-month limitation on mental health disability benefits again, putting them on par with physical benefits. Earlier this year, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury unveiled new requirements in Milwaukee, re-emphasizing that mental health and substance use disorder benefits must be offered to the same degree as medical and surgical benefits. Still, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su said at the Sept. 9 unveiling that "laws are only as good as enforcement" and the new order requires more agency resources to work on investigating claims and educating insurance companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mental health advocate Patrick Kennedy, a former congressman, told the Journal Sentinel that disability carriers need to follow the path of regular health insurers. He called on Congress to finally add some teeth to the effort, saying it "must require that if you have a mental health disorder like OCD, you get the same disability insurance as if you had Parkinson's." Despite recommendations and endorsements, however, it remains unclear if the new Congress has any will to prioritize a bill of this magnitude, especially if disability carriers have a say in it. Just as disability carriers in Vermont expressed concern over a 25% increase in cost before being proven wrong the America Council of Life Insurance shared a survey with the Council from its member companies, which include Unum, the Hartford and Prudential, warning of a possible 20% increase in premium loads on average. Most people 'genuinely need the benefit' In addition to rhetoric about higher premiums, murmurs of fraud have remained a perennial concern across disability carriers since the inception of long-term disability insurance in the 1960s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonathan Feigenbaum, a Massachusetts-based attorney with close to four decades of representing individuals in disability cases, said he simply doesn't come across "phonies" or malingerers in his line of work. Much of that has to do with the fact that, for the majority of employees applying for long-term disability claims, they'd be getting at best 60% to 70% of their annual earnings. Jonathan Feigenbaum, an employee-rights attorney from Boston, has represented long-term disability cases for more than 40 years. He's been instrumental in shifting how disability claims are determined in Massachusetts. In Feigenbaum's experience, the bulk of people out there applying for disability claims feel connected to their jobs. "People get some identity out of work. They'd rather work than not work, and I just don't run into people faking it or trying to take advantage of the situation," Feigenbaum said. Even the president of Sun Life Financial U.S., a major insurer, acknowledged in a Journal Sentinel interview that he was skeptical of fraud as a significant issue, regardless of physical or mental health conditions. Dan Fishbein, the president of Sun Life Financial U.S., endorsed recommendations in December 2023 from the ERISA Advisory Council to remove the 24-month cap on coverage for a mental health/substance use disorder disability. Sun Life remains the only disability carrier to endorse the recommendation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Most people who file for disability benefits genuinely need the benefit and also genuinely want to go back to work," said Dan Fishbein, the president of Sun Life Financial U.S. "There's a percentage always out there trying to take advantage, but as a company and as an industry, we have well-developed processes to make sure claims are legitimate." Fishbein's opinion is notable because Sun Life is the only insurance carrier to endorse the ERISA Advisory Council in calling for national parity. "It's long past time that disability insurance included the equal benefits for mental health as for physical health," Fishbein said. However, Devon Portney Fernald, a spokesperson for Sun Life, which has offices in Milwaukee, said that if it made changes independent of all disability carriers, it would "create upheaval in the market" and the company wouldn't be able to quote rates that are competitive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, one state in America has tried parity and found it effective, and one CEO in the insurance industry has stuck his neck out and said it's long past time for parity to be the norm, helping the roughly 3.5 million American employees out of work for a behavioral health disability. But the words are largely symbolic, and real change is nowhere in sight. Natalie Eilbert is reporting on problems at the intersection of disability insurance and mental health through a grant from the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism's 2024 National Fellowship Fund. The center has no role in the editing or presentation of her work. Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her X (Twitter) profile at @natalie_eilbert. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Only one state treats mental, physical disability coverage equally? COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A pedestrian who was run over in west Columbus on Christmas Eve is now dead and police are searching for the driver. According to Columbus police, 41-year-old Ronnie Carperton died five days after being struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Sullivant Avenue in the Hilltop. The collision occurred at around 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 24 when Carperton was reportedly walking along the south side of the street. Police said Carperton then attempted to cross northbound on Sullivant Ave. near the South Sylvan Avenue intersection when an unidentified vehicle struck him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus homicide solve rate consistant with 2023, better than years prior to that Carperton was taken to an area hospital where he remained after suffering life-threatening injuries. He was pronounced dead at 5:03 p.m. Sunday evening. The operator of the vehicle made no efforts to stop and fled the scene, continuing eastbound on Sullivant Ave. Police believe the car is maroon in color. Any person with knowledge of the involved vehicle or driver is asked to contact the Accident Investigation Unit at (614) 645-4767. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may also contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-8477. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. GLOBALink | Int'l youth experience intangible cultural heritage in China Pub Date:24-12-31 11:13 Source:Xinhua Over 50 young representatives and diplomats from SCO member states, observer states, dialogue partners, and other countries gathered at the China-SCO Youth Exchange Center in Kunming, China, over the weekend to celebrate cultural exchange and friendship. #GLOBALink Editor:Qin Shuying Related News Show Me China | Passion for winter sports ... The 'fairy bird' makes its grand return to... Becoming a kung fu master, an American law... Traditional ice-fishing spectacle captivat... Two people wanted for questioning connected to a death in Park County and a missing person from El Paso County have been found. Law enforcement in Picayune, Miss., with the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office and the Picayune Police Department found and arrested Johnny Morris, 46, and Hailey Cole, 43, early Monday morning. According to the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office, the agency received a call Monday morning that a man matching the description of Morris tried to break into a vehicle around 8:15 a.m. Deputies and officers from the Picayune Police Department responded and began searching the area. At about 9 a.m. Morris and Cole were found camping in a shed, and taken into custody at the Pearl River County jail. Both had outstanding Mississippi warrants from the Mississippi Department of Corrections for failure to appear, as well as other Mississippi-based charges of receiving stolen property contempt of court-failure to appear. Pearl River County Sheriffs Office investigations at the scene of Morris and Coles capture led to Pearl River County charges of commercial burglary and attempted residential burglary. A third person, Stephen Walker, 37, who went missing at the same time as Morris on Dec. 19, remains missing. Law enforcement had been seeking a blue Ford F-150 that Morris and Cole were believed to be driving. That vehicle was found Saturday in Hattiesburg, Miss. Featured Local Savings The Colorado investigation discovered both Morris and Cole had familial ties to Pearl River County. Law enforcement is asking anyone with information about the case to call 719-390-5555 or 911. A bloody mystery During a call for service on Dec. 19, deputies found large quantities of blood throughout a house in the 1800 block of Pima Drive in Cimarron Hills, in unincorporated El Paso County. Deputies said two men associated with the house were Morris and Stephen Walker, 37, who had also gone missing. While Morris has now been found, Walker remains missing. He is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall, weighing 160 pounds and has black hair, brown eyes and tattoos on his right arm. His family has asked through social media for anyone with any information about his whereabouts or well-being to contact authorities. The case became a death investigation on Dec. 24 when a check the welfare call came into the Park County Sheriffs Office and deputies responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Campfire Road in unincorporated Park County. Deputies from the Park County Sheriffs Office patrol unit searched the residence and discovered a deceased man, later identified as 65-year-old Timmy L. Huston. Public records indicate that Cole and Huston were both listed as residents of the same residence. Law enforcement then announced they were seeking Morris and Cole, and to consider them armed and dangerous. Dec. 30WABASHA, Minn. The bald eagle is on the United States' national seal. However, until Christmas Eve, it wasn't on the books as the national bird. On Monday, Dec. 30, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar joined a standing-room-only crowd at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha to mark the legislation she sponsored making the designation official. In a rare display of unity from Congress, the bill designating the bald eagle as the national bird passed unanimously with bipartisan support. It was signed Tuesday, Dec. 24, by President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That doesn't happen on many things," Klobuchar told the crowd. Klobuchar and center leaders thanked Preston Cook, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center and longtime eagle enthusiast and collector who spurred the effort. Cook is a collector of eagle art and artifacts who donated a collection of more than 40,000 cultural items from his personal collection to the National Eagle Center. Klobuchar thanked Republican Congressman Brad Finstad for his support of the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. "There's a reason Minnesotans were leading this legislation," Klobuchar said in a short interview following the ceremony. "It's not a fluke there's now a national spotlight on the National Eagle Center." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also acknowledged Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyoming, for working with her in the Senate to bring Republicans on board the initiative in the chamber. Klobuchar said one small obstacle she and other sponsors of the bill faced was the impression that the eagle already was designated the national bird. Echoing Cook's campaign, Klobuchar noted that the bison is the national mammal and the rose is the national flower. It was time to make the eagle's designation official. Ed Minnema, executive director of the National Eagle Center, called the legislation a correction to a "242-year-old oversight." He was referring to the official adoption of a national seal in 1882 that features the bird. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wabasha Mayor Emily Durand thanked Klobuchar for her efforts and Cook for his relentlessness and support of the center. Klobuchar, Minnema, Cook and others posed with an ambassador bird, Angel. The 25-year-old raptor was found as a fledgling in 1999 with a broken wing. Angel is unable to fly and has been at the center for learning purposes because she would not be able to survive in the wild. Former executive director Rolf Thompson, who also attended the event, recalled traveling to Wabasha and seeing a bald eagle in person for the first time when he was a student studying ornithology in the 1970s. At that time, bald eagles were on the brink of extinction. The population was threatened by habitat loss and use of the pesticide DDT, which caused eggshell thinning and hurt eagles' ability to reproduce. Despite those pressures, the open waters on the Mississippi River adjacent to Wabasha and tree-lined bluffs gave some of the remaining birds food and habitat. That makes Wabasha a fitting home for the National Eagle Center, Thompson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, more than 300,000 raptors live in the U.S. with more than 70,000 nesting pairs of birds. Of those nesting pairs, about 10,000 of them live in Minnesota. The state is second to Alaska for most nesting pairs of eagles in the U.S. Klobuchar said she knows the cooperative nature of this piece of legislation probably won't carry over into Congress in 2025, but it will serve as a reminder that some things can bring people together across political aisles. "I've always been committed to working with others and finding common ground," she said. WACO, Texas (FOX 44) After over a year of work, the Legacy Artwork Project is being installed at G.W. Carver Middle School. Its purpose is to honor the schools history and the legacy of its namesake, George Washington Carver. On Monday, artist Skip Lee Ralls and his team began wheeling the hand-forged metal sculptures to the school entryway. I have a mural of Carver in the studio and every morning I say to Carver, Good morning. And during the days that are very frustrating, which you have when you do this work, it just this mantra, Its not about me, its about Carver,' Ralls said, explaining his creative process for this project. In the end of this, you know, its like, if I could if I could be half the man Professor Carver was, Ive succeeded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cooper Foundation contributed funding to help make this project possible. Once staff and students return to campus from the holiday break, they can admire and engage with the new contribution to their school. Ralls has been a sculptor for 42 years, and says this project and its purpose have been one of his favorite pieces. If we can touch one problematic child and slow him or her down, that they can look at the piece and maybe reflect that theres something more than their situation right now, something much more, maybe this would impact a child, Ralls explained. The artwork project will be representations of Dr. Carver and the schools legacy. From peanuts to his favorite flowers, a rose bush, and instruments attached to vines that will hang from the ceiling with school history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sculpture pieces are said to be on display upon the schools opening for the spring semester. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. A family is seeking justice for their 5-year-old daughter after she was killed by a vehicle as she crossed the street the day after Christmas. Ariyah Marie Elias, 5, was crossing at the intersection of East Guadalupe Road and South Hawes Road in Mesa, Arizona, when she was fatally hit by a truck on December 26, Mesa Police said. The child was crossing the street with her mother, Alora Silva, and five other kids in the neighborhood when the crash happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The traffic light changed when the group was making their way across the street. A truck heading west on Guadalupe proceeded through the intersection on a green light and struck the child, police told The Independent in a statement. The driver reported not seeing the group until entering the intersection, and by then, it was too late, and the driver was unable to stop, police said. Officers immediately tried performing lifesaving measures on the child at the scene, but they were unsuccessful. The victim was pronounced deceased at Banner Desert Hospital. The family of a 5-year-old girl who was struck by a truck in Mesa, Arizona, says they want justice for their daughter (12 News / screengrab) No other pedestrians were injured, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand this is a heartbreaking incident for the community, and our thoughts are with the family and everyone impacted, Mesa Police said. No one has been arrested or charged in connection with the incident, but the investigation is still ongoing, authorities said. The little girls family said they hope to hold the driver to account. I want some answers. I want justice for my daughter, Silva said. She did not deserve to go. Silva told 12 News that her daughter had turned five-years-old exactly one month before the tragedy. The little girl still had presents to open under her familys Christmas tree, she said. The intersection where the little girl was fatally struck in Mesa, Arizona (Google Maps) I dont wish this on my worst enemies. This is the worst thing anyone could possibly go through, Silva said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said she feels guilty over her daughters death. I feel like I ruined not just my daughters life, but also these other childrens [lives] who had to witness this that arent my children, she said. Elias family launched a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses. What happened on that wide stretch of road, with the lights changing and the world spinning out of control, wasnt fair, it wasnt right. No words can or will ever fix this, and no justice can or will ever even the scales, the fundraiser says. All we know is that our love for Ariyah is still as clear as the sun, and even through this nightmare, shes still perfect, shes still ours, and our love for her will never fade. HENRY COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) The Henry County Sheriffs Office has arrested a man after a vehicle pursuit on South Creek Court in the Collinsville community. On Monday, December 30, Anthony Lee Coverdale is facing additional charges after being wanted on three counts of felony probation violation, according to the Henry County Sheriffs Office. The sheriff said that Coverdale was on probation for previous drug and firearm charges when during his arrest, he was allegedly found in possession of one pound of methamphetamine, a firearm without a serial number, and around $5,000 in cash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two charged with murder in connection to Lanford Street shooting (Photo Credit: Henry County Sheriffs Office) Coverdale is currently being charged with the following offenses: Violation of Virginia Code Section 19.2-306: Probation Violation (3x) Violation of Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.2: Possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon. Violation of Virginia Code Section 18.2-248: Possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance (methamphetamine). Violation of Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.4: Possession of a Schedule I/II drug while in possession of a firearm. Violation of Virginia Code Section 18.2-311.1: Possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Violation of Virginia Code Section 18.2-308: Carrying a concealed weapon. Violation of Virginia Code Section 46.2-301: Drive with a suspended license. Violation of Virginia Code Section 46.2-817: Failure to stop for police. Coverdale is being held at the Henry County Adult Detention Center without bond. The incident remained under investigation by the Henry County Sheriffs Office and is asking anyone with information is asking to contact them at 276-638-8751 or Crimestoppers at 63-CRIME (632-7463). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) Law enforcement arrested a man Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, who was wanted on an active felony warrant out of Washington County. A Pitt County deputy saw a vehicle connected to Nicholas Ryan Roberson, 33, of Plymouth and initiated a traffic stop. Roberson then ran away after a brief struggle with the deputy. A K9 officer and a deputy with a drone assisted in finding Roberson. They found him hiding in a creek near Rivercreek Mobile Home Park where he was taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberson was charged with: Felony possession of a schedule II controlled substance Simple possession of a schedule IV controlled substance Assault on a government official Resisting a public officer Felony possession of stolen goods Three counts felony larceny Order for Arrest for misdemeanor probation violation Violation of domestic violence protective order Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) A Waterbury man charged with the murders of a young mother and her baby in Hartford last month faced a judged in Connecticut for the first time on Monday. Lance Morales, 23, also known as Mach or Macho, is accused of killing 20-year-old Jessiah Mercado and her 4-month-old son, Messiah. Police believe Morales killed the two and injured another in a drive-by shooting on New Britain Avenue. In an arrest warrant obtained by News 8, family members told investigators that Morales rented a white Mazda to Mercado and that she was behind on car payments. Family members believe she owed him $400. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warrant said Mercado and Morales previously had some sort of relationship and he was recently consistently trying to contact her, however, she kept ignoring him. Mercado was in that rented car with her baby and two witnesses on Nov. 19 when Morales confronted them. In a police interview with one of the witnesses, the warrant reads he/she heard the female say I got my baby in the car Mach and believes Mach replied, I dont care.' Police reviewed surveillance video in the area from that day. The warrant said based on the audio and the Affiants training and experience, it is believed that a fully automatic firearm was used in this incident. One of the witnesses was able to identify Morales from a photo lineup based on the tattoo above his left eye. After police put out nationwide alerts for Morales, he was found and arrested in Puerto Rico four days after the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court Monday, a state prosecutor said Morales does not have a right to bond because he is accused of murder with special circumstances. This defendant has proven that he is not able to be assured presence in the court after doing this crime and immediately escaped to Puerto Rico and attempted to elude capture, the state attorney said. The judge set his bond at $5 million. Morales next court date is Jan. 8. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. WARREN COUNTY, Ky. (WKRN) Deputies with the Warren County Sheriffs Office are searching for multiple suspects following a chase involving a car reported stolen out of Nashville early Monday morning. The Warren County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post that deputies were patrolling the Baileys Farm subdivision around 1:49 a.m. when they saw a man in dark clothing run away from two parked vehicles. We just want to feel safe: Cars broken into across East Nashville Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post added the man got into a silver Nissan Altima with no headlights on; the Altima then reportedly left the neighborhood and deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop. However, the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed towards Scottsville Road before crashing in the parking lot of a nearby business. (Courtesy: Warren County Sheriffs Office) Three suspects fled the vehicle on foot and though deputies searched the area for them, the suspects were not found. Deputies with the Warren County Sheriffs Office said witnesses reported seeing two suspects armed with guns as they fled through neighborhoods behind he business. Woman dies after vehicle goes airborne, crashes into body of water along KY roadway The wrecked Nissan Altima was reported stolen out of Nashville, Tennessee, the sheriffs office said. A search of the Altima yielded a rifle, a cell phone and key tools. The Warren County Sheriffs Office said the investigation into the incident is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Dec. 30Regional lawmakers expressed their condolences, sharing memories and accomplishments of former President Jimmy Carter punctuated social media Sunday after the 39th president died at 100 as the oldest-living U.S. president in history. Prior to and during his presidency, Carter visited Washington state on more than one occasion. Years later, lawmakers from the Evergreen State took to social media to recognize the peanut farmer turned president and Nobel Prize winner. Gov. Jay InsleeOutgoing Washington Gov. Jay Inslee posted on the social media site X commending Carter's position on renewable energy. Carter famously installed solar panels near the White House at his presidential inauguration, and went on to promote individual energy conservation to preserve natural gas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are many reasons to reflect on the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter," Inslee wrote. "One is the vision he had for renewable energy that is now being realized. Reagan took down Carter's White House solar panels, but now they are sprouting up all over the country." Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson Washington Attorney General and incoming Gov. Bob Ferguson shared a photo on Facebook of Carter speaking at a news conference after the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, behind him in the photo is then-Gov. Dixy Lee Ray with a hand over her face. "Jimmy Carter was a great American and lived a life devoted to service," Ferguson's post read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Maria Cantwell Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell, who represents Washington, shared a memo with a statement on Carter's death, also applauding his environmental emphasis. "President Carter was one of the first Presidents to truly understand the value of protecting and preserving our nation's public lands and waters. We owe preservation of premiere Alaskan wilderness and many other wild places to his leadership," she wrote. Sen. Patty Murray Patty Murray, a Democratic senator alongside Cantwell, posted on X a recognition of Carter's continued efforts after his one term in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Jimmy Carter lived a life of public service long after he left the White House. His kindness and compassion whether through his philanthropy here at home or his tireless efforts to broker peace around the world were a model for all Americans. He will be greatly missed," she wrote. Idaho Gov. Brad Little Republican Gov. Brad Little of Idaho highlighted Carter's dedication for "service to others" on X. "Jimmy Carter will be remembered as a man who dedicated his life to his country," Little wrote. "His time in the Navy, as Governor of Georgia, President of the United States, and his humanitarian efforts after, remind us of the importance of service of others. May he rest in peace." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Jim RischIdaho's Republican Sen. Jim Risch posted on X on behalf of himself and wife Vicki Risch. "God bless President Carter and his late wife Rosalynn. His service to our country and faith-based efforts to help those in need deserve respect and gratitude," Risch wrote. "Vicki and I send our condolences to the Carter family." Idaho Rep. Mike Simpson Republican Idaho Rep. Mike Simpson, representing the state's 2nd Congressional District, took to X to share thoughts and prayers from himself and wife Kathy Simpson. "Kathy and I are saddened to hear of the passing of President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a dedicated champion for Habitat for Humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family during this difficult time," he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Editor's note: This story has been changed to correct the pronoun of former Gov. Dixy Lee Ray. Elena Perry's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor. The Senate chambers at the Washington state Capitol. (Legislative Support Services) In about two weeks, 147 state representatives and senators will descend on the Capitol for 105 days of lawmaking. Hundreds of others lobbyists, support staff, press and members of the public will also filter beneath the dome over the next four months. Legislators will have to solve a $10 billion to $12 billion dollar budget problem and will likely pass hundreds of bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a look at some key numbers to know as you follow along: 98 representatives and 49 Senators The state Legislature has two chambers, the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House is the larger of the two with 98 members two for each district in the state. The Senate is smaller with only one representative per district. Democrats control both chambers and grew their majorities in this years elections. In 2025, there will be 30 Democrats and 19 Republicans in the Senate and 59 Democrats and 39 Republicans in the House. 31 new people and counting The Legislature saw high turnover this year following retirements and lawmakers moving to different elected positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be 31 people in new seats. That includes eight former representatives heading to the Senate. Theres also a handful of lawmakers returning after time off. And some are representing new districts following court-ordered changes to district boundaries. The rest are newcomers. Three more replacements are still on the way. Sen. Patty Kuderer will leave her post in January to become the next state insurance commissioner. Her vacancy will mean at least one new member in the Senate likely a current House member. The resulting House vacancy would mean another new member in that chamber. Meanwhile, Rep. Tana Senn will also leave next month to lead the Department of Children, Youth and Families. Her vacancy will need to be filled too. 35 committees Between the House and the Senate, there are about 35 standing committees where bills start their long journey to becoming law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They cover topics like economic development, higher education, housing, long-term care and tribal affairs. Standing committees meet regularly throughout the session to hold public hearings on proposed legislation, amend bills and vote to move them on through the process. Its where much of the bill-writing process happens. Most committees have less than a dozen members, but the finance committees are much larger. The House Appropriations Committee, for example, had 31 members last session, and the Senate Ways and Means Committee had 21 members. There are also joint committees that include members from both chambers and meet periodically throughout the year to discuss specific topics, like veterans and military affairs, water supply during droughts, and energy supply. 7 important cutoff dates To keep things moving during the session, lawmakers set deadlines for when they must pass legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first cutoff comes on Feb. 21 when bills must pass through a policy committee in their house of origin or they are likely dead for the year. The next one comes a week later when the fiscal committee cutoff arrives. All leading up to house of origin cutoff on March 12. Then the process repeats with three more deadlines before sine die on April 27 the final scheduled cutoff for anything to pass this session. 274 pre-filed bills and counting In the month or so before a legislative session starts, lawmakers can pre-file bills. Doing so doesnt automatically mean the legislation will get a hearing, and it doesnt make it any more likely to become a law. But it does give committee chairs ideas for what they might want to bring forward once the Legislature convenes. When lawmakers gavel in, hundreds more bills are likely to be introduced. Some could pass quickly, others could take all session to move along, and many may never be considered. As of Dec. 30, at least 274 bills had been pre-filed. 747 reams of paper During the 2021 legislative session, when lawmakers worked from home during the COVID pandemic, they used significantly less paper than they normally do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christine Rolfes, lead Democratic budget writer at the time, told lawmakers on the final day of that session that not having to print the 1,100-page budget saved 747 reams of paper or about 37 trees. Although the pandemic brought some permanent changes to the Legislature, like remote testimony, it didnt change lawmakers reliance on printed products. Assuming the Legislature prints their budget like they do most years, itll require hundreds of reams of paper. And that doesnt include all of the sheets used for agendas, bills, notetaking and more. 2,520 hours Thats how many hours are in the 105 days that lawmakers will have to debate bills in 2025 assuming that a special session doesnt add more time. Hopefully, they wont work too many nights or weekends, but they are known for pulling long and late hours, especially as the session nears its end. After two years of trying to convince some churches in Colorado Springs to open their parking lots and use volunteer forces to undertake a simple concept that has successfully channeled homeless people back into stable housing in other Colorado cities, the first local safe parking project is making progress, according to organizers. Locations of the inaugural sites that will sanction secure and legal overnight parking for people who live in their vehicles are not being released yet, said Jane Barnes, president and CEO of Benefits in Action. The statewide nonprofit has an office in Colorado Springs with 10 employees who assist indigent and low-income residents with obtaining government assistance such as health care and food benefits. Were working with a couple of churches and nonprofits to try to get something set up here, and were further along than we were, Barnes said Monday. Were waiting on the city for zoning in church lots, she said. We want to get this going we know theres a need. The update comes as the Denver-based Colorado Safe Parking Initiative will cease operations as of Wednesday, citing financial difficulties. For better or worse, we opened coincidentally when the pandemic started and relied on state and federal dollars, Executive Director Terrell Curtis said Monday. Some of the funding has dried up and some was restricted by how the money could be used, she said, which contributed to financial problems. However, Curtis said, an interesting development over the five years since the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative began will allow for the program to continue independently of the founding organization. Weve collaborated with local communities to support and implement safe parking, and most of our sites are in parking lots of safe organizations that have been managing, supporting and running the lots, Curtis said. As of Monday, participating churches, nonprofit commercial parking areas and organizations plan to continue the safe parking program at the 15 sites that are currently operating in metro Denver area, she said. Safe parking as an innovative intervention for homelessness with a unique population has been embraced and adopted by our local governments and our communities, Curtis said, and its humbling and to see the commitment. But the details need to be worked out. The shuttering of the organization means churches will no longer receive provided portable toilets, which cost about $200 a month per site, Curtis said. In centralizing operations, Colorado Safe Parking Initiative also handled applications, intake, background checks on parkers and case management. Im not sure how that will go without a central office it could get more complicated for churches, said Barnes, whose organization has been working with parkers in Broomfield in addition to getting the Colorado Springs program up and running. Churches continue to hold the insurance because its their property. Featured Local Savings Some communities, including Jefferson County and the city of Arvada, have already deployed homeless navigators to provide support services for parkers such as signing up for subsidized benefits and applying for housing. Broomfields existing lots may decide to have one point of contact, Curtis said, while cities in Arapahoe County have said they will work together to create a safe lot of their own in the next year. Each lot is figuring out how to receive new applications, and some may collaborate on a hyper-local model, she said. The 15 current lots have accommodated eight to 15 cars a night and average 10 vehicles a night. They receive sanitation stations such as portable toilets and sinks, meals provided by volunteers and case management for other services. Consistently about 40% of the people who leave the program move into stable housing, according to Curtis, whether its an apartment or a tiny home or reuniting with family. At its real core its so simple and so effective to open a legal parking space for people living in their cars while theyre trying to get stable, she said. About 800 people were sleeping in their cars in the Denver area earlier this year during the annual Point in Time Survey. People who live in their cars are defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the agency that funds homelessness initiatives in communities, as unsheltered homeless. The category also includes people who live on the streets, in illegal encampments, under bridges, on sidewalks and other uninhabitable places. The population of unsheltered homeless has been climbing steadily since 2015 and in 2024 reached a total of 274,224 nationally, according to HUDs Annual Homelessness Assessment Report. The need for safe parking remains great, Curtis said. The Colorado Safe Parking Initiative received more than 1,700 calls for help last year and assisted 290 parkers, according to its annual report. Nearly half were employed and another 20% had other income, primarily government subsidies. While the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative figures out what bills are outstanding and what income still expected, the books should be closed in March, Curtis said. She expects less than $50,000 to remain, which she said will be donated to entities that plan to carry on some form of safe parking. Of course its disappointing to be closing a program, she said. We are really proud to see that safe parking is understood as a very productive and viable solution for this population that has not been addressed at all over the years and that continues to grow. Contact the writer: 719-476-1656. Four fuzzy and downright adorable animals have made their debut at Texas zoos this year, bringing joy to visitors and bolstering conservation efforts. From rare mammals to exotic reptiles, these little ones are not just cute they're helping secure the future of endangered species. Kirby: Asian elephant, Houston Zoo On Nov. 15, Shanti, a 34-year-old Asian elephant at the Houston Zoo, gave birth to a 314-pound female calf named Kirby after a 19-hour labor. The healthy calf was born in the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, with keepers and veterinary staff overseeing the delivery. Akobi: Pygmy hippopotamus, Houston Zoo In November, a 477-pound, four-and-a-half-year-old male pygmy hippopotamus named Akobi moved to the Houston Zoo from San Francisco. Akobi, meaning "first born" in Yoruba, arrived as part of a breeding recommendation from the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program. Visitors can now see him next to the bongos as he settles into his new home. Texas horned lizards, Caldwell Zoo, Dallas Zoo and San Antonio Zoo Since August 2021, Caldwell Zoos Texas Horned Lizard Conservation Center has successfully hatched hundreds of baby horny toads, including more than 70 this year alone, according to a recent Facebook post. Similarly, the Dallas Zoo recently announced its largest clutch of horned lizard hatchlings to date, adding 18 new babies to its population this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The San Antonio Zoo also successfully hatched more than 70 lizards this year. Jasper & Ruby: Mandrill, Fort Worth Zoo Born on Sept. 13, Jasper weighed approximately 2 pounds about the size of a pineapple at birth. He is the first male mandrill born at the zoo in over 30 years. Jaspers parents are Scarlett and J.J., and his name pays homage to the red gemstone, honoring both his mother and older sister, Ruby, while also including the J in tribute to his father, as noted by the Fort Worth Zoo on social media. Ruby was also born earlier this year. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Meet the adorable animals that joined Texas zoos this year PITTSBURG, Kan. Pittsburg State University faculty and Evergy workers acted quickly in Pittsburg to rescue a cat that was stranded atop a utility pole. The cat was spotted on the power pole just outside the Pittsburg State University Natural History Reserve by a faculty December 19th. Evergy was contacted and an employee was sent with a bucket truck to help. After a successful rescue effort, the feline is now inside and receiving plenty of attention from students while staff reportedly works to find him a new home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. PITTSBURG, Kan. (KSNW) Evergy came to the rescue of a cat found perched on top of a power pole. The utility tells KSN that it happened on Dec. 19 shortly before 7 a.m. at the Natural History Reserve of Pittsburg State University. Evergy says university staff noticed the cat perched at the very top of the pole when they arrived for the day and called the company for help. Holiday gift from strangers came just in time for homeless Wichita man Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using a bucket truck, the Evergy crew coaxed the cat into an open tub container and safely brought him down to the ground. The cat is now being cared for by an instructor for Pittsburg State. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. EDISON, N.J. (PIX11) Its a messy ending to 2024 in Edison. The residents are trying to grin and bear it as best they can, said Debbie Lillis. More New Jersey News A major water main break dating back to last week is still being repaired. About a hundred houses were still without running water entering Monday. The effects are lingering a little longer than residents hoped for. This is day 5, said Rich Cherubini. Since the night of Christmas, we havent had any water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cherubini is in one of about 80 homes in Edison Terrace, the neighborhood right behind the site of Thursday mornings main break. I dont feel that it should be taking this long, said Cherubini. I know the pipes are old, they say most of the pipes in this area are between 80 and 100 years old which understandably are going to break and you have to fix them, I get it. But this is 5 days now. The town has offered hotel rooms to certain residents and has been delivering cases of water. In the midst of repairs, town officials say it was discovered the 20-inch main that burst was listed as abandoned on a map from the 1950s. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 75 years ago when they raised Woodbridge Ave, they never redid the water pipes, said Mayor Sam Joshi. It was listed then as abandoned because that was their plan, but they never did it. Joshi says aging infrastructure is a problem not just in Edison but all over New Jersey. This problem right here was created about 75 years ago, and we feel it right now. Also factoring into repair work is an active gas line nearby. Officials have asked for patience, and some residents, Lillis, are giving it to them. I got frustrated a little bit, said Lillis, but theres nothing really we can do. I just want to thank God we have people working on this and the Mayor helping us out because theres nobody else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joshi said around mid-day Monday residents of Edison Terrace would have their water back within hours after the installation of a 2-inch main. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. TOWANDA, Pa. (WETM) A Waverly man who had meth in his car during an Athens police chase and in his holding cell after he was arrested will spend up to 12 years in prison. Cody James Blake, 38, was sentenced to a minimum of six years and a maximum of 12 years in state prison, according to the Bradford County District Attorneys Office. Blakes sentence follows convictions of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (between 50 and 100 grams) and possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (between 2.5 and 10 grams). Original story: Waverly man arrested on meth charges after Athens police chase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blakes charges stemmed from a May 12 arrest. The Athens Township Police Department reported that Blake was arrested after leading officers on a 2.47-mile-long chase through Athens that at times exceeded speeds of 100 mph. Authorities say officers searched Blakes vehicle at an impound lot after the chase and found a magnetic lockbox containing 44.35 grams of meth underneath the car. Officers found more meth hidden in Blakes holding cell at the Athens Township Police Department after his arrest. The district attorneys office stated that a significant amount of meth was stuffed between a wooden bench and a piece of carpet that had been pulled up in a corner of the cell. Blake confessed to hiding the meth there after his arrest. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. HONESDALE The Wayne County coroners office is investigating the death late Monday of a federal prison inmate, who died in the emergency department of Wayne Memorial Hospital. The attending physician pronounced Terry Ladale Flowers, 36, dead at 10:45 p.m. Flowers was an inmate at the United States Penitentiary, Canaan, according to a news release. The cause and manner of Flowers death are pending an investigation, with an autopsy slated to be conducted this week. Dec. 31Police are using a Westbrook man's own security camera footage against him as part of a murder case, saying the recording captures him talking on the phone about his involvement in the victim's death. James Fowler, 47, was arrested earlier this month after detectives obtained and reviewed surveillance camera footage recorded inside his apartment on Lamb Street. The camera angled toward his kitchen captured the hours leading up to and after 59-year-old Robert Seger was found unresponsive in a different apartment on Nov. 21. Seger was taken to the hospital and later died of multiple blunt force injuries. The video shows Fowler talking on the phone with his girlfriend, who also is Seger's sister, after police left that night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I didn't want to say it when the cops were here, but this is our fault," Fowler said, according to a detective's partial transcript of the recording. It is unclear who else he may have been referring to. Earlier that day, Fowler called 911 for help and told police Seger had been beaten up days earlier and that he had tried to help him as his condition worsened. Fowler was arrested about two weeks later and is being held at the Cumberland County Jail with a $300,000 cash bail for depraved indifference murder, punishable from 25 years to life in prison if he is found guilty. Peter Richard, Fowler's attorney, said he has yet to see or hear the full security camera recordings, so he can't say whether the excerpts are accurate or have full context. He said more information will be revealed as the discovery process plays out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Often we find additional information that calls into question the credibility of the evidence or the allegations of how circumstances occurred, and we expect that to be the case here," Richard said in a statement. He said his client's trial is set for December 2025 and that he will "be working hard over the next year on his behalf to prepare for that." Richard also said that from what he read, the written snippets of Fowler's phone call are "materially consistent" with statements Fowler made about Seger's condition before he called 911 for help. Fowler told police that Seger told him he had been beaten up a few days before he died, according to court documents, but that his injuries didn't appear to be serious at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While state police initially identified the two as roommates, court documents say they lived in two different units in the same building. Fowler told police that over the next two days, Seger's injuries worsened and he spent hours lying down without eating. Fowler went upstairs to visit Seger at least twice, offering him a hamburger and a hot dog, he said. During his second visit, at around 8:30 p.m., he told police he offered to call an ambulance, but Seger declined. Fowler says he tried to sit Seger up and administer CPR because he could not tell if he was breathing. He eventually called 911 and told the operator the two had gotten into an argument one day prior on Nov. 20. A neighbor who lived in the same building told police he saw Seger with two black eyes, begging to be let inside Fowler's apartment, on the evening of Nov. 20. Neighbors in the building said the two men didn't get along, and they mentioned overhearing Fowler getting into fights with Seger. Police also found a previous call for service to their apartment building in October. In the body camera footage from that call, Seger can be seen with a black eye he said he got from Fowler, who allegedly hit him for not responding quickly enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in a later interview with police, Fowler said he and Seger never argued and he didn't recall fighting with him that day. Richard, Fowler's attorney, said Fowler is not facing any charges from the alleged fight in October and has not been charged with any assaults or abuse to Seger. "There appear to be significant inconsistencies with the alleged commission of a crime compared to the statements made by the alleged victim to a neighbor days before his unfortunate passing, which are inconsistent with Mr. Fowler committing the alleged crime he is charged with," Richard said. "These, and likely other, inconsistencies are the types of facts that can readily cause reasonable doubt to rise in criminal cases such as this." Fowler is dating Seger's sister, Theresa, according to court documents. She told police she never saw Fowler abuse her brother and that he was likely beaten up by drug users in the area before he died. 'A BUNCH OF HOLES IN MY STORY' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police seized at least three cameras from Fowler's apartment while executing a search warrant the day after Seger was brought to the hospital. They received permission to search the cameras, each of which contained SD cards. A camera angled toward Fowler's kitchen captured him yelling at Seger to get up off the ground about a half hour before he called 911, according to court documents. The document doesn't indicate where Seger was at the time. Fowler later called Theresa Seger on speaker phone, put on his jacket and left the apartment, it says. About 17 minutes later, he returned, still talking on the phone. He told her he couldn't tell if Seger was breathing. She told him to call an ambulance. "I can call and say he just got beat up," Fowler replied, court documents show. "I just got him home and now he won't wake up." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're already talking about him being dead Theresa," he said one minute later. "He better not be. Because he's got marks from me on him." After police left late that night, around 2:30 a.m., he called her again, telling her there were "a bunch of holes in my story" and "a good chance that I will be in trouble," according to court documents. During his initial hearing in Cumberland County Superior Court earlier this month, prosecutors accused Fowler of a "pattern of abuse" while once serving as a caretaker for an "intellectually challenged victim." Fowler has a lengthy criminal record spanning several decades, including domestic violence assaults, violating protection orders and violating the conditions of his release, according to a background check through the Maine Bureau of Investigation. Copy the Story Link If youre not planning on catching downtown Milwaukees free firework show or one of the many other New Year's Eve events in the area, you may be wondering how you can watch the signature ball drop in Times Square. Multiple channels will be airing the celebrations live on TV and streaming platforms. You can also watch live on Times Square's official website starting 6 p.m. EST on Tuesday night. Here's what to know: How do I watch the ball drop on ABC in Wisconsin? "Dick Clarks New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025," will air at 8 p.m. EST on ABC. It will be available to stream on Hulu the following day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan Seacrest will host alongside Rita Ora. Dayanara Torres will co-host from Puerto Rico. There are more than a dozen celebrities performing at New Years Rockin Eve 2025, including Alanis Morissette, Carrie Underwood, Kesha, Lenny Kravitz Renee Rapp and TLC. How do I watch the ball drop on CNN in Wisconsin? "New Years Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen" will stream live beginning at 8 p.m. EST on Max for subscribers and on CNN.com, CNN connected TV and mobile apps for subscribers. Celebrities slated to make an appearance on CNNs broadcast include 50 Cent, Meghan Trainor, Shania Twain and Lil Jon. Several comedians, including Adam Devine and Whitney Cummings, will also make appearances. How do I watch the ball drop on CBS in Wisconsin? Hosted by Keith Urban and Rachel Smith, CBS Nashville Big Bash will begin at 8 p.m. EST. It will air on the CBS Television Network and will also be available to stream on Paramount+. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The show will run until 10 p.m. before taking a half hour break, resuming at 10:30 p.m. and running until 1:30 a.m. Dustin Lynch and Lonnie Quinn will be on the East Coast for the ball drop. How do I watch the ball drop on NBC in Wisconsin? NBC is not hosting a live show this year and will instead air pre-recorded specials with Hoda Kotb, Jenna Bush Hager and Seth Meyers, among others. More: What's the forecast for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in Milwaukee? More: These Wisconsin stores are open on New Years Eve, New Years Day This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop 2025: How to watch in Wisconsin WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) The White House announced Jan. 9 as a National Day of Mourning and the official state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter. Wed all do well to try to be a little more like Jimmy Carter, President Joe Biden said. President Biden remembered his predecessor, Jimmy Carter, as a dear friend, not only to him, but also to millions of Americans and ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff in his honor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carter lived a life measured not by words but by his deeds, Biden said. President Biden highlighted the work Carter did after leaving the White House from eradicating disease around the world, to advancing civil rights, to building homes for the homeless. Lifted people up and changed lives and saved lives all over the globe, Biden said. Carters grandson, Jason Carter, said he was proudest of that work he was able to do through The Carter Presidential Center. I think he will always appreciate how much he got to see of that lifes work being done even up until the very end, Jason Carter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work that didnt go unnoticed. Crowds of supporters waited in line Monday to sign a condolence book for Carter near the White House. Were going to do a major service in Washington D.C., Biden said. After the services in D.C., Carter will be buried outside his home in Plains, Georgia where his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, is also buried. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Staffers are reporting a depressing mood around the White House in the final weeks of Joe Bidens term as the president works to cement his legacy and reflects on the 2024 election. With less than one month until President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20, White House aides told The Wall Street Journal the mood at work is draining and depressing. Biden has also expressed that he could have defeated Trump in November, the Journal reports. Entrepreneur Joe Kiani, a major Democratic donor and friend to Biden, told the Journal, if he ran, he really thought he was going to win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By not running, he was worried Trump would win, Kiani said. He just didnt want to win at any cost. Bidens belief, however, is not a critique of Vice President Kamala Harriss campaign, the Journal reports. Rather, Biden believes that because he beat Trump once, he could have done it again. Harriss allies, meanwhile, told the Journal a few extra weeks on the campaign trail couldve made the difference on Election Day. White House staffers described the mood at work as depressing and draining following President-elect Donald Trumps victory in November, according to a new report (AFP via Getty Images) It took Biden nearly one month to drop out of the 2024 race after his poor debate performance against Trump on June 27. When he exited the race on July 21 following mounting calls from his party to do so, he left Harris just over three months to build and execute a campaign to rival Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump dominated Harris in battleground states, and the vice president ultimately lost the popular vote by more than 2 million. Biden is also working to cement his legacy after a political career that spans more than 50 years, the Journal reports. The president has infused even banal White House events with retrospectives on his time in office and started sketching out the plans for his presidential library in Delaware, according to the outlet. White House Spokesperson Andrew Bates told the Journal the president isnt spending his time litigating the election or engaging in counterfactuals. Instead, Biden and Harris are focused on delivering as many additional results for hardworking families as they can while finalizing the most groundbreaking record of any modern administration. Bates added that Biden admired his vice presidents campaign, while a spokesperson for Harris told the Journal the two still have a close working relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Independent has contacted the White House for comment. This isnt the first time reports have indicated Biden regrets how the 2024 presidential election played out. Last week, sources told The Washington Post Biden recently said he is confident he could have defeated Trump in November. Despite this, he has also admitted to making mistakes throughout his presidency. The president has privately expressed regret over appointing Merrick Garland as attorney general, saying he was too slow to prosecute Trump over the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots, the Post reported. Biden has also admitted to screwing up the debate with Trump, though noted he does not regret participating, according to the Post. Rendering of the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine. (Courtesy photo) This story is the second in a three-part series about new higher education institutions in Arkansas that are welcoming their first class of students or breaking ground on their schools in 2025. The first story can be read here. The governor has said higher education will be a focus of the upcoming legislative session that begins Jan. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Training physicians to treat patients in a more holistic manner is the goal of a new medical school set to open its doors in July in Northwest Arkansas. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) secured preliminary accreditation status from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education in October, which allowed the school to begin recruiting students to its new Bentonvillle campus. The institution plans to welcome 48 students to its Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program this summer, and tuition will be waived for its first five cohorts. Dr. Yogi Hernandez Suarez, who became AWSOMs executive vice dean in October, said waiving tuition is a really big deal because medical debt is an issue everywhere, and this could create the opportunity for some students to consider medical school who otherwise could not take on the financial risk. Part of our commitment is to try to find everybody who is capable of doing the work to come into the house of medicine so that the physician workforce increasingly reflects our community, Hernandez Suarez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AWSOM was founded in 2021 by philanthropist and Walmart heiress Alice Walton, who based on her own health care experiences recognized the need for a whole-person approach, according to a press release. The School of Medicine will play a pivotal role in educating the next generation of physicians, equipping them to care for the whole person and making a lasting impact on health care in the Heartland and beyond, Walton said in a statement. Dr. Yogi Hernandez Suarez (Courtesy photo) Heartland Forward, a think and do tank based in Bentonville, defines the Heartland as 20 states in the middle of the United States, including Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota and Ohio. Training students in a whole health model means placing patients in the middle and thinking about the systems of care surrounding them, Hernandez Suarez said. While a specific ailment may bring patients to a physician, Hernandez Suarez said there are several factors, including relationships at home, insurance payment models or a lack of insurance, and local and federal policies that all shaped their health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most health does not happen in the doctors office, she said. We meet a patient at a point in time and on a health journey, but everything pretty much happens out there in the set of circumstances in their life, and having some kind of understanding of that makes you so much more effectual as a physician. AWSOM will provide a traditional four-year program, and Hernandez Suarez noted a unique aspect of the curriculum is very early integration of clinical experiences. One example might include a supervised early learner taking a family history from a real patient in a local clinic, she said. Though the school is not tied to a teaching hospital or large university, as is often the case for medical schools, AWSOM has several community partners and the benefit of being part of the Walton ecosystem of art and wellness, Hernandez Suarez said. The 154,000 square-foot, four-story medical school is being constructed next to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. An apartment complex with 300 units that will provide housing for students and the community is being built on an 11-acre site adjacent to the school and is expected to open in 2026. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine is under construction in Bentonville. (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate) Asked about the cost of construction and future tuition prices, AWSOM Director of Marketing and Communications Aaron Anderson said the school didnt have a construction figure to provide. While cost structures may change during the five cohorts, we will always be looking for ways to reduce barriers to entry for incoming classes, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The campus of Walton-backed projects also includes the Heartland Whole Health Institute thats under construction. With a focus on addressing the current health care crisis, the institutes goals include lowering costs, improving quality and broadening access in the Heartland by catalyzing new delivery models, using whole health principles, that can be replicated to disrupt the national health care experience, according to its website. The institute, along with the Alice L. Walton Foundation and Mercy, announced in September a 30-year, $700-million affiliation with Cleveland Clinic, which will provide cardiovascular expertise. As part of the agreement, Mercy will serve as the primary education partner for AWSOM. Hernandez Suarez credited Waltons efforts to tackle health care challenges from a different angle, noting that its hard to innovate and make changes in the customary models. To set up this model of a medical school connected to an institute on the campus of a forest and an art museum, with the support of great institutions of clinical affiliates in this part of the world, its pretty cool, she said. Community partners Hernandez Suarez said faculty will develop day one ready students by providing them experience in a variety of environments thanks to partnerships with regional clinical sites, including Washington Regional Medical Center, Fayetteville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Arkansas Childrens Northwest, Highlands Oncology, Springwoods Behavioral Health, Arisa Health, Community Clinic and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UAMS, the states only comprehensive medical science university, has campuses in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas. Ryan Cork, vice chancellor of UAMS Northwest, said his campus can graduate up to 25 medical students annually, but has typically averaged 21-22. Noting that partnerships are about the tide raising all the ships in the harbor, Cork said he looks forward to partnering with AWSOM however he can and incorporating the school into the collaborative environment that exists amongst the regions health care providers. Our ability to work together I think is a positive, it separates us from other communities, he said. Its a great place to be in Northwest Arkansas the life and the outdoors and the lifestyle but this education, teaching, learning environment and collaboration amongst the hospitals is uniquely unique to Northwest Arkansas. Ryan Cork (Courtesy photo) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cork joined UAMS in September from the Northwest Arkansas Council, where he had served as the nonprofits executive director of health care transformation since 2021. According to a recent report commissioned by the NWA Council, Arkansas faces a physician shortage, a problem thats likely to grow because 35% of the states physicians are over the age of 60. Arkansas also has a shortage of postgraduate medical residencies and because most physicians practice within 60 miles of their residency, the state will likely lose talent, according to the report. Washington Regional in Fayetteville has worked with UAMS to expand residency slots by undertaking geographic wage reclassification with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which will allow Washington Regional to adjust its federally subsidized residency cap. Washington Regional has established 50 residency positions and will apply for accreditation once funding is made available for additional residency slots. Arkansas lawmakers approved $12.5 million in 2020 and have committed to additional funding to expand residencies and fellowships across the state, according to the NWA Council report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are several hospitals and clinics in Northwest Arkansas; however, community leaders say more providers are needed to adequately serve the regions booming population thats expected to grow to 1 million by 2050. Meanwhile, many of the states rural communities lack access to care altogether. To help deliver more physicians to these areas, Cork said UAMS Northwest offers a three-year program for students wishing to practice in a rural environment. Ensuring that were adequately serving the entire state, we cannot be singularly focused on Northwest Arkansas and forget about everyone else, he said. Regardless if you live in Bentonville or DeQueen, Arkansas, you should have the same access to care wherever you are, and that is our goal. Though community and state leaders have zeroed in on training more doctors, Cork said its also important to focus on training additional health care workers like nurses who are needed to support physicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UAMS Northwest currently has 339 students, 73 of which are in the College of Medicine. The remaining students are studying in the colleges of nursing, pharmacy and health professions. UAMS Northwest is looking to expand in two roles for its nursing program as part of its effort to deploy more health care workers into the community, Cork said. As partnerships develop in the coming years with new medical schools, programs and students, educators and administrators say theyre all working toward the same goal. The endgame for us is very clear that we are here to improve the health of the community, Hernandez Suarez. We know that that means that we need doctors and we need doctors who are committed to the community. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Health experts are warning of the risks of whooping cough in Arkansas as cases soar across the country. According to the CDC, whooping cough cases in the U.S. have reached their highest level in more than a decade. Whooping cough is at a decade-high level in US By mid-December, more than 32,000 cases had been reported, which is about six times more than last year at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Arkansas, the Department of Health reports 352 cases have been reported. Dr. Naveen Patil, the Deputy State Health Officer, told KARK 4 News that transitioning to normal life outside of the pandemic is, at least in part, to blame for the new surge in whooping cough cases, as many continue to drift away from the regular masking and social distancing that once protected us from a variety of viruses. Now we are back to routine normal life, which you have to come back to, so again thats leading to more and more infections, Patil said. The other thing is people did not get vaccinated they are not getting their boosters. Thats causing a surge in cases, too. Whooping cough cases approach near record numbers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many, the infection starts with cold-like symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, a low-grade fever and a tickly cough. A painful, full-body cough can develop within a week or two. Later symptoms include more rapid coughing that can last six weeks or longer. According to the CDC, for all ages, vaccination is the best way to protect against whooping cough. Experts also recommend getting the regular booster. Patil strongly suggests Arkansans talk with their healthcare providers about a whooping cough vaccine or check to see if its time for a booster. CDC report shows increase in tularemia cases in US, some reported in Arkansas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antibiotics can help if the infection is caught early but once the coughing fits start, the only treatment is plenty of rest and fluids while the infection runs its course. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) As a mark of respect for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday, Gov. Ron DeSantis has ordered that flags will be flown at half-staff on Tuesday. The issue applies to United States and the State of Florida flags at all local and state buildings and grounds throughout the state of Florida until the evening of January 28. In a proclamation issued on Sunday, President Joe Biden honored his predecessor by stating, May President Carters memory continue to be a light pointing us forward. May we continue to be guided by his spirit in our nation and in our world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Have you noticed flags flying at half-staff across Idaho? They wont be raised anytime soon. For the next month, flags will be lowered not just in the Gem State, but across the country, to honor former President Jimmy Carter. Heres why. Why are flags lowered? There are numerous reasons flags are flown at half-staff or half-mast on a ship. Directives in each state are handled by the governor. There are predetermined dates for lowered flags, and the governors office will announce any additional dates as necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Idaho, the flag was lowered in 2024 for the deaths of officials including state Rep. Sue Chew, on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and for federal observations of holidays such as Memorial Day. Generally, the directive includes a requirement for state buildings, and an invitation for others to lower their flags as well. Additionally, directives can be issued by the president for flags on federal property. These directives can then be echoed on state levels through governors offices. Flags at half-staff nationwide As of Monday, Dec. 30, flags were being flown at half-staff in national observance of the death of former President Carter, who died at the age of 100 on Sunday. He lived longer than any previous U.S. president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is an American tradition to fly flags at half-staff for 30 days after a president or former president dies. The standard was established in the Federal Register in 1954 by then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Joe Bidens statement announcing the death of the 39th president issued a flag directive for 30 days, in accordance with tradition. Additionally, Biden designated Jan. 9, 2025, as a national day of mourning. Carter, a Democrat and former governor of Georgia, served as president from 1977-1981. He defeated Republican Gerald Ford in the 1976 election. I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter Jr., Biden stated in the proclamation. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance. The flag directive was echoed by Idaho Gov. Brad Little. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Carter will be remembered as a man who dedicated his life to his country, Little wrote in a press release. His time in the U.S. Navy, as Governor of Georgia then President of our great country, along with his extensive humanitarian efforts after, remind us of the importance of service to others. May he rest in peace. Because the directive lasts through Tuesday, Jan. 28, flags still will be at half-staff during incoming President Donald Trumps inauguration. The last time this occurred was in 1973, when the observation of former President Harry Trumans death overlapped with Richard Nixons second inauguration. The years before the United States joined World War II were no picnic in the park. The country was in the midst of the Great Depression, when unemployment was high and food rations made dishes like the water pie (one of several Depression-Era desserts you can still make) common. News of ever-increasing tensions in Europe had everyone worried, and there were whispers that if the "old" continent went to war, Americans would eventually join. Anticipating conflict, Captain Paul Logan thought the U.S. Army should start preparing survival kits for troops. To feed its soldiers, he needed items that were light, nutritious, and long-lasting, so he turned to Hershey's and asked the company to come up with a special chocolate bar. The most important caveat? It shouldn't taste good. Captain Logan felt that giving soldiers delicious chocolate would pose a number of problems: They might eat it too soon, or they might use it as currency and trade it for other goods like cigarettes and magazines with pictures of scantily-clad women. The army wanted to avoid making these chocolate bars desirable because they were meant to keep soldiers alive in an emergency situation. If soldiers indulged in the candy beforehand, they might then find themselves without their potentially life-saving ration when they actually needed it. As a solution, Hershey's delivered the Ration D bar, which did not melt, was as hard as a rock, and contained very little sugar. Many soldiers disliked it so much that they refused to eat it, although there are records of the bar saving lives. Read more: The History Of Corn Flakes Is Even Worse Than You Knew Hershey's Continued Involvement In War Efforts Hershey's chocolate bars in supermarket - Yudanto/Shutterstock The U.S. joined World War II after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The Ration D bar was handed out to countless soldiers, and Hershey's received the Army-Navy 'E' Production Award in August 1942 for helping in the war effort. But the company's work didn't end there. The next year, it came out with the Tropical Chocolate Bar, which had a slightly better flavor but could also survive in hot climates. This bar was used by the Army until the 1990s. Even after the Axis powers surrendered in 1945, Hershey's continued to play a role in war history. Its products were used in a heart-warming effort called Operation Little Vittles, in which the military air-dropped chocolate bars from paper tissue parachutes to children in Soviet-controlled Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Hershey's efforts are certainly commendable, the company might have saved a lot of research and money if it had looked to countries like Mexico and Colombia, which make hot chocolate with bitter blocks of chocolate very different from the 10 types of chocolate common in the U.S. Like the Ration D bar, these hot chocolate blocks don't melt easily, are hard as a rock, and have little to no added sugar. They're meant to be melted in boiling water or milk rather than eaten alone, and would have perfectly fit the bill of what the Army wanted. In today's globalized food market, we have the benefit of other countries' culinary knowledge, in times of war and peace. For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout. Nurses at a second Hawaii hospital are taking a vote on whether to authorize a strike amid protracted labor contract negotiations. The 159-member nursing staff at Wilcox Medical Center on Kauai began voting Sunday, and has until 8 p.m. Wednesday to cast a vote that could lead to a strike. A decision by the Wilcox nurses is following a similar pending consideration by the roughly 1, 900-member nursing staff at The Queens Medical Centers Punchbowl and West Oahu campuses where voting began Dec. 23 and is scheduled to wrap up today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilcox nurses began negotiations with Hawai i Pacific Health, owner of the largest medical center on Kauai, on May 6 ahead of their labor contract expiring Aug. 31. According to the Hawai i Nurses Association representing Wilcox nurses, Hawai i Pacific Health has engaged in unfair labor practices. Dianna Rodriguez, a Wilcox nurse for the past six years, said in a statement that nurse staffing levels at Wilcox are a challenge that hospital management has not made a good-faith effort to address in contract negotiations. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. What the nurses refer to as safe staffing ratios were a major issue in negotiations earlier this year for nurses at Kapi olani Medical Center for Women &Children on Oahu where a new three-year contract with Hawai i Pacific Health took effect Oct. 2 after more than a year of contentious negotiations punctuated by two strikes and an 18-day management lockout of roughly 600 unionized nurses. Wilcox nurses said they are seeking similar support from Hawai i Pacific Health to reach a contract agreement. We believe Hawai i Pacific Health should bargain in good faith over whether to extend the same support to its Wilcox Medical Center nurses to ensure Kauai residents have access to quality care, Quyen Rockwell, a Wilcox nurse for the past 16 years, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HNA President Rosalee Agas-Yuu, who is a Kapi o lani Medical Center nurse, said in a statement that this same support is needed to ensure Kauai residents have access to quality health care. We hope fairness will prevail because unlike those in Honolulu, patients on Kauai have fewer options when they need care, she said. They dont have the luxury of choosing to go to another hospital. Our goal is to avoid disruptions in care for Kauais patients. Jen Chahanovich, president and CEO of Wilcox Medical Center, said in a statement Monday that the nonprofit hospital company has been dedicated to reaching an agreement with its nurses through good-faith efforts that so far have included 22 bargaining sessions and recent involvement of a federal mediator. They are a valuable part of our Wilcox team, she said of the nurses, and we will continue to negotiate in good faith with the Hawai i Nurses Association. We will wait for the voting results and remain focused on serving our patients and their families on Kauai. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, Wilcox nurses expressed support for Kapi olani and Queens nurses with an informational picket. The Queens nurses voting on whether to authorize a strike have been working without a contract since their previous labor agreement expired June 30. The union seeks improvements to staffing levels and competitive compensation in a new three-year contract. Linda Puu, chief nursing executive for The Queens Health Systems, previously told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser that the hospital does not want a strike and remains hopeful a contract that both Queens and its nurses can be proud of can be reached. CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) A thunderstorm accompanied by heavy winds blew into north central West Virginia Tuesday afternoon, knocking out power and damaging parts of the region. According to MonPowers outage map, as of 3 p.m., 13,542 customers are without power in West Virginia with more than 10,000 of them being in Monongalia and Marion Counties. The map shows that areas like Cheat Lake and Mannington are almost entirely without power as crews begin repairs. On top of power lines, the winds that blew through Tuesday afternoon also picked up and moved large objects, like a canopy on Main Street in Bridgeport, which flew into the sign of Bridgeport Physical Therapy. Nobody on the scene appeared to be injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Will West Virginia see snow on New Years? (WBOY Image) (WBOY Image) Another victim of Tuesdays heavy winds was the Clarksburg Courthouse Christmas Tree, which was purchased by the Harrison County Commission earlier this year for $18,000 with funding raised at local hot spots. The tree did not appear to be damaged heavily and was already being disassembled by crews by the time a 12 News reporter arrived on the scene. (WBOY Image) (WBOY Image) For much of the region, these thunderstorms are expected to be followed by temperature drops and even snowfall in some parts as we reach the small hours of the morning on New Years Day. Be sure to stick with the StormTracker 12 Weather Team for the latest on your local conditions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. New Year's Eve is here and many people are ready to get out of their houses and out on the town. But while everyone is having fun, organizations such as the Colorado State Patrol say it's important to make sure a safe ride home is planned ahead of time. The CSP along with the Colorado Department of Transportation and 71 other statewide law enforcement agencies will be conducting increased patrols through Jan. 2 as part of a New Years Eve campaign. The annual campaign seeks to combat the rise in impaired driving-related crashes and fatalities seen each year around the holidays. "Colorado law enforcement made 1,350 DUI arrests last December alone. Avoid a DUI this holiday season by making a plan for a sober ride," said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. Many businesses have offered rideshare promotions to keep roads safer for everyone even when you don't have a designated driver handy. The rideshare service Uber in partnership with the organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving have a ride credit voucher special running through 10 a.m. on New Years Day. Users can enter the code SAFECO24 in the app promotions section to get $7 off of their fare. It's valid statewide throughout Colorado wherever holiday festivities take you. The Wilhite Law Firm is also offering a program to reimburse rideshares up to $35 on Uber or Lyft. They just ask that riders get a digital receipt of the trip to attach to the law firm's reimbursement form as well as a copy of the rider's ID. Reimbursement forms will be accepted for the first two weeks of the new year, and come in the form of an Uber or Lyft credit. The McDivitt Law Firm is again offering free cab rides home to residents in Colorado Springs and Pueblo which the firm has done since 2007. The firm says it has provided more than 19,000 safe rides home. Featured Local Savings "We want everyone to celebrate safely on New Year's Eve," said McDivitt Vice President and Chief Operating Officer David McDivitt. "We see so many lives changed when people make a bad decision that causes a devastating crash, and this is just one way to help keep people in our community safe. We encourage everyone to make the right choice this holiday and either designate a sober driver, or call a cab on McDivitt." To use McDivitt's Safe Ride Home Program, active between 10 p.m. Dec. 31 and 3 a.m. Jan. 1, call zTrip in Colorado Springs at 719-766-4567 (or 719-543-2525 for Pueblo) or use the app and mark "Pay in Car" at the time of booking. In Pueblo. In the cab tell the driver "It's on McDivitt" and the ride between the establishment and the rider's residence will be covered. Rides will not be covered between drinking establishments or restaurants. According to Colorado State Patrol, as of Dec. 9, 30% of all traffic fatalities this year have involved an impaired driver. The agency warns that a lot of DUI arrests happen in December during holiday time and increased travel, encouraging people to make sure they have a safe way home on New Years Eve. If you plan to host a New Year's Eve party, make sure your guests stay safe. CDOT suggests tips such as collecting your guests car keys upon arrival, encouraging them to designate a sober driver or use a service, offering them a place to stay if a sober ride home is unavailable, stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the party is over, and providing plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options. For yearly impaired-driving crash and fatality data in Colorado, visit www.codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety/data-analysis/fatal-crash-data. For local law enforcement agency plans, visit www.codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-reporting-portal. CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) Experts predict winter spending is expected to reach a whopping $902 per person once the holiday season comes to an end. According to the National Retail Federation, holiday spending is expected to grow between two and four percent over last year. While consumers are done buying gifts, many are still making trips to the grocery store to get items for the last big celebration of the year. For those making last-minute trips to the grocery stores on New Years eve, there are plenty of grocery stores open on December 31st including Big Y, Costco, Target, Walmart, and Trader Joes. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Maria Parazo Rose Grist It was barely a choice. In 1855, a time when the ink of border lines on United States maps had scarcely dried, Yakama Chief Kamiakin was told to sign over the land of 14 tribal nations and bands in the Pacific Northwest or face the prospect of walking knee deep in the blood of his people. Legend has it that, when he put pen to paper, he was so furious he bit through his lip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By signing, he ceded over 10 million acres across what is now known as Washington state. In return, the Yakama Nation was allowed to live on a reservation one-tenth the size of their ancestral lands, about 100 miles southeast of Seattle. But the story doesnt end there. The treaty map was lost for close to 75 years, misfiled by a federal clerk who put it under M for Montana. With no visual record to contradict them, federal agents extracted even more Yakama land for the nascent state, drawing new boundaries on new maps. One removed an additional 140,000 acres from the reservation, another about half a million, and still other versions exist. By the time the original map was discovered in the 1930s, it was too late. Settlers had already made claims well within reservation boundaries, carving the consequences of this mistake into the contours of the land. Non-Native landowners remain to this day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Yakama want that land back. Most tribal members know the story of Kamiakin and his bloodied lip when he signed the treaty. Ask Phil Rigdon, a Yakama citizen and nationally recognized forester. As the superintendent of the Yakama Nation Department of Natural Resources, he deals with a medley of issues, but his most important work is getting the reservation land back. After working on this for nearly 20 years, he knows that it takes time and an entire community to make the progress they want. Its a family thing for us, as we do this business, he said. Pushed up against the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range mountains, the Yakama reservation is over a million acres but not all of it belongs to the tribe. The primary non-tribal landowner on Yakama Nation is the state of Washington, which owns close to 92,000 surface and subsurface acres of state trust land within the reservations boundaries, in addition to other types of land holdings. As part of the Enabling Act of 1889, the federal government gifted tracts of land to states when they graduated from territories to join the Union. These parcels, known as state trust lands, are considered resources in perpetuity: States can sell or lease these lands to make money from grazing, timber, and other activities. The profit is then used to fund a states institutions: universities, jails, hospitals, and, especially, public schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These lands can be a meaningful revenue source. A Grist investigation from earlier this year found that state trust lands across the Western U.S. that send money to land-grant universities paid out about $6.6 billion dollars from 2018 to 2022. Washingtons state trust lands, including those on the Yakama reservation, are managed by its Department of Natural Resources, or DNR. The state is eager to return the lands back to the tribe; it recognizes that a return would both complete the Yakamas ownership of the reservation and support the regions environmental health. However, the states efforts are dictated by legal policies and priorities that ensure the land is exchanged only on the condition that Washington is compensated for the lands value, even though it was wrongfully taken. Grist has reported on over 2 million acres of state trust lands that exist within the borders of 79 reservations across the Western U.S. Our investigation has shown that extractive industries, like mining, logging, and oil and gas drilling, operate on that land that generates billions of dollars for state entities. But the Yakama Nations history with state lands is singular in its legal morass. When the treaty map was misfiled, two main areas on the reservation were repeatedly depicted as non-tribal land on incorrect replacement maps. One is along the northern border of the reservation, known as Tract C. The other is Tract D, in the reservations southwestern corner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, nearly 71,500 acres of surface and subsurface state trust lands on Tract D, and 19,700 acres on Tract C, send revenue to Washingtons institutions, mostly benefitting public K-12 schools. The map the Washington DNR uses to reference the Yakama reservation still marks Tract C as a disputed area. The boundary errors have been acknowledged by authorities ranging from Harold Ickes, the secretary of the interior during the Franklin Roosevelt administration in the 1930s, to former president Richard Nixon in the 1970s. But none of these acknowledgments were legally binding, said attorney Joe Sexton of Galanda Broadman law firm, based in Washington. That is, until the 2021 9th U.S. Circuit Court case of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation v. Klickitat County, for which Sexton and Galanda Broadman, along with attorneys for the tribe led by Ethan Jones, argued the Yakamas case. It started with a jurisdictional dispute over a criminal prosecution: In 2017, Klickitat County arrested a minor and enrolled tribal member for a crime in Tract D. The county claimed that the tribe had no jurisdiction over Tract D, since it wasnt reservation land; the tribe declared the opposite. The Yakama Nation sued Klickitat County for stepping outside its jurisdiction; the county argued that Tract D was not included when the reservation was created. Sextons job was to prove that it was. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If they had lost this, they wouldve really been brokenhearted about the fact that future Yakamas would not be able to consider this part of their reservation, Sexton said. With Sextons argument about interpreting and honoring treaty language, the Yakama Nation ultimately won the case, confirming that Tract D was and had always been a part of the reservation, within the original boundaries. This was further validated when, the following year, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the countys appeal against Yakama Nation. The case also set a meaningful precedent for how the Tract C boundary, which has had no such adjudication, might be approached in court, Sexton said. While the courts decision was monumental, it did nothing to address the continued existence of state trust lands on the reservation. Under the U.S. Constitution, federal treaties with tribal nations, as with other sovereign entities, are considered the supreme law of the land. Washington also has its own state Supreme Court decision, which expressly holds that tribal treaties are binding law. The Treaty with the Yakama of 1855 precedes the federal 1889 Enabling Act that distributed state trust lands, so it should have precedence. In other words, because the treaty was signed first, the subsequent expansion of state trust lands on Yakama land, due to incorrect maps, shouldnt have happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Treaty of 1855 trumps it, Sexton said. Theres no question about that. But because of how Western property law works, the state has legitimate legal claim to those lands. It goes back to how the U.S. perceived its right over the land upon which it was building itself: Empowered by the Doctrine of Discovery, a Catholic decree authorizing colonial powers to claim land, the government decided that all of the land and everything on or under it was federal property until it was turned into a state, or a national park, or a reservation. Whoever had the property deed, which was initially held and then granted by the federal government, was in charge. And deeds are the key to ownership, Sexton said, seen to be almost as powerful as treaties, even though theyre not listed in the Constitution. So despite the fact that the U.S. gave away Yakama land to which it no longer had any right, because it fell within the bounds of the reservation, the federal governments distribution of trust lands to Washington state is still recognized as a legal transaction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington has the ability to decide how these trust lands are handled. But because so much time has passed since the states inception in 1889, generations of settlement and ownership have been established in the area, and state beneficiaries have come to count on trust lands as a revenue source which means it is unlikely that Washington would return the trust lands on the reservation to the tribe without some form of compensation. State officials, theyll claim that the law ties their hands. But I dont know that it does, Sexton said. And if it does, theyre certainly not working to change the law in any actual way. The October sun shone through fall-colored leaves above the truck Phil Rigdon drove into the forests of Tract D. Along a rolling ridgeline, he pointed out groves of pine stands. We call this area Cedar Valley, even though theres no cedars here, Rigdon said, gesturing out the window. It was the homesteaders that called it Cedar Valley. And so I dont know why it stuck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rigdon stepped into the superintendent role for Yakama Nations Department of Natural Resources in 2005, coming with a bachelors degree in forest management from the University of Washington and a masters degree from the Yale School of the Environment. He steers land management across the entire reservation. But before that, Rigdon was a forester. In these backroads, he recognized copses of trees he once knew as saplings he planted decades ago, now stretching 40 feet tall. You never think you grow up, but holy shit, he said. Now youre like the big trees, youre the old growth. Driving through Tract D, there was a clear contrast between different parcels of the forest. Some were densely packed or dotted with stumps those owned and managed by the state or private interests. The forest on tribal land, meanwhile, was thinned out, full of mature trees with thick trunks. Branches stretched into air. Thinning out trees has many purposes: It decreases the material that feeds wildfires, it enables a more complex plant system, and it slows the spread of insects and disease. It creates a healthier forest. Both the state and private industry harvest timber more aggressively than the tribe, though Rigdon acknowledged that the state manages forest much better than private industry, which does more clear-cutting. After all, the state DNR must manage state trust lands so that schools and other institutions receive revenue years into the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt to say the tribe doesnt log. They cannot tax people, as a tribe, so they harvest enough to help fund their government institutions, which partly depend on timber as a revenue stream. But the Yakamas approach is to view land as a continuum, to be managed for the very long run. They pay attention to the overall environment, making decisions based on what allows the entire ecosystem to work as it should. Their harvesting practices double as a way of maintaining forest health the priority over revenue generation. What we leave on the ground actually is usually more valuable than what we take, Rigdon said. The tribe values land for more than its potential economic worth: There is kinship, memory, medicine. Like when Joe Blodgett, a tribal member and Rigdons cousin, described the Klickitat Meadow, he didnt bring up the golden grass or jagged peaks on the horizon. He talked about weekends fishing with his dad. Klickitat Meadow is in the Tract C part of the reservation, checkerboarded with state trust lands and tucked up in the mountains behind roads that require four-wheel drive. This area, and others like it, is where Blodgett and other members of Yakama Nation learned to gather food and about their connection to the land. It gets back to the importance of what our resources are offering us, Blodgett said. Theyre making a sacrifice, theyre making that offering. And weve got to appreciate that. Blodgett manages the Yakima Klickitat Fisheries Project, a tribal initiative that works on restoring sustainable and harvestable fish populations. His work involves overseeing environmental restoration projects, like in the Klickitat Meadow, which has been far too dry. A warmer climate played a part in this, but the full reason is more nuanced. A history of state-sanctioned sheep grazing permitted on adjacent state trust lands led to grazing on the meadow that never should have happened. Large herds, which wouldnt normally be in the area, compacted the dirt so much that water can no longer percolate into the ground to feed the streams and rivers that start in mountain meadows like this. Actions that damage the environment in seemingly small ways add up, Blodgett said. Scale matters. But by the same token, small environmental mitigation practices also add up to meaningful improvements. In a meadow stream nearby, for example, the tribe has built human approximations of beaver dams that slow the water and help it absorb into the ground. Solutions like these are called low-tech, but the simplistic name belies their necessity for other projects to succeed. For example, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is ready to move forward with the removal of the Bateman Island Causeway, an unauthorized, artificial land bridge in the Columbia River that connects Bateman Island to the shore. Tribes have long advocated for its removal, given its disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem. Removing it will restore fish populations off the reservation, but Blodgett said the situation wont get better without cold water coming down from the mountain streams on the reservation. Thats where the low-tech fixes come in. Theyre equally important, Blodgett said of the low-tech fixes and bigger infrastructure projects. Youre going to see the biggest bang out there when you pull that causeway out. But if [fish] dont have these types of systems to go back to, youre just going to continue to spin your wheels. Climate change adds pressure to the Yakamas environmental restoration efforts. Because the effects of a rapidly changing environment are becoming more prevalent, Blodgett and other Yakama experts know that they have to take faster, bigger action to stay ahead of and be resilient to even harsher future conditions. It will require landscape-scale restoration projects, more sustainable management of forests, and smarter water- and land-use practices big projects for which the Yakama Nation would need cohesive control over its reservation, without pockets of state or private ownership. The Yakama Nation has a plan for land reclamation. The tribe began buying land back from companies and private landowners in the mid-1990s, returning close to 40,000 acres. One of the bigger single acquisitions was a deal with a private landowner to buy back roughly 7,500 acres in Tract C for about $5 million. But the remaining 19,700 surface and subsurface acres of state trust land in Tract C have proved to be elusive; the tribe has been negotiating to reacquire those lands for over 20 years. The complications come from the Enabling Act rules that govern Washington states financial responsibility to its beneficiaries: The state cannot lose money from state trust lands. In practice, were the state to return trust lands to Yakama Nation, it would need to be paid however much that land is worth, or receive land that is the equivalent value of what they exchange. Without that compensation, public schools and other institutions will feel the financial pinch. Between 2021 and 2023, the state trust lands within Yakama reservation generated $573,219.85 which is .16 percent of all the revenue that state trust lands across Washington state produced in that same time period. Washington does have one avenue for transferring state trust lands from the DNR to other entities, as long as those lands are deemed financially unproductive. The Trust Land Transfer programs benefit is that the state legislature funds land exchanges, instead of an entity, like a tribe, buying it back. But you have to have a legislature willing to do that. Its a unique program, one that the DNR says it operates in the spirit of collaboration with the tribes. The state trust lands on Tract C are eligible for this program and are on the final list of this years proposed transfers, with minimal long-term revenue potential. The state DNR has requested $15 million from the state legislature to return roughly 9,900 surface acres to the tribe. Per state policy, the state would retain the rights to any subsurface materials under these lands, even if the surface rights go to the tribe. The DNR would use the payment money to purchase new lands in place of the transferred trust lands, to continue supporting beneficiaries. Comparatively, Tract D, which courts confirmed is a part of the Yakama reservation, is still productively generating revenue and not eligible for the Trust Land Transfer program. The legislature could theoretically fund a direct transfer to compensate the DNR and its beneficiaries for the Tract D state trust lands, but that would be a hefty price tag. So, instead, the state has brought in the federal government to facilitate an exchange, given that it has more resources and holds so much land in the area. The DNR has identified federal lands off reservation that it wants, and now its a matter of negotiation, said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. The reason this situation exists is because the federal government created a situation of injustice to the tribes. To right the situation doesnt mean you create a wrong, Franz said, explaining that giving those trust lands away without an exchange would unfairly take revenue away from schools and other beneficiaries. It means, federal government, you made the wrong allocation of lands to the state for trust lands, when it should have gone to the tribe. Now, correct that and you make the tribes whole and you make our schools whole. Franz said that if the legislature doesnt approve funding for the Tract C trust land transfer though she is confident it will the DNR would likely approach it in the same way as Tract D, negotiating with the federal government for a direct transfer. Otherwise, the alternative would be the arduous process of amending the state constitution and federal Enabling Act. But, Franz said, thats too hard. Hard, but not impossible. Section 11 of the 1889 Enabling Act, dealing with lands granted to support schools, has been amended eight times, most recently in 1970. Washingtons state constitution has been amended 109 times, one of the most recent in 2016 for a redistricting issue. The state legislature will decide whether or not to fund the Tract C trust land transfer in the spring of 2025. But no matter how the issue of trust lands is resolved between the Yakama Nation and Washington state, it sets a meaningful example for tribes on the 78 other reservations where trust lands exist. One cool morning last October, about 170 years after the Yakama treaty signing, a crowd of about 90 people gathered in a dusty clearing next to the Klickitat River on the southwest corner of the Yakama reservation, in Tract D. Cupped by pine-covered hillsides, they were there to commemorate the groundbreaking of long-awaited upgrades to the Klickitat Hatchery. It had been run by the state until 2006, when it was turned over to the tribe; tribal members have managed it back to health, holding things together with duct tape and determination. Over the low rumbling of river water, representatives from the county, state, federal, and tribal governments praised the collaborative effort that had gone into restoring the hatchery. The tribe was also celebrating the forthcoming return of the land the hatchery is located on. On December 13, Washington state transferred the title to the 167 acres and all the hatchery facilities from the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, or DFW, to the Yakama Nation. Bill Sharp, coordinator for Yakama Nation Fisheries projects, has worked on environmental restoration projects for 35 years. Hes white, a non-tribal member. To him, navigating the title transfer with the DFW has been faster and easier than land transfers with the state DNR. The presence of state trust lands on the reservation, he said, is an insult to injury. Can you just clean the slate, say, Our bad, here it is, all back? Thats how it should go, Sharp said, about the state trust land return efforts. But the way things were funded, and the easements and restrictions that white people put on top of that those things just really get in the way of doing whats right. What is the right way to settle an injustice? Who is justice for? Rigdon, Blodgett, and other Yakama experts working on this issue know that land return is a long game, even on their own reservation. Theyre in it for the very long haul, which means that each new challenge is just another day and that every win, like with the hatchery, is cause for celebration. Ive always had the opinion that you can never lose if you never stop trying, said Sharp. So as long as the Yakama are here, and they live and breathe, theyre going to keep fighting to protect the resources that sustain their lives. And we all benefit from that, everyone, whether youre a tribal member or not. At the end of the ceremony, the faint smell of a warm, fresh salmon meal slipped into the air, prepared by Yakama staff for the festivities. After the closing speeches, the crowd moved like a wave, chattering about this and that while they waited in a winding line. A row of tables held trays of salad, salmon, bread, and grapes. Folks from state and federal organizations sat with their tribal counterparts, full plates in hand. The Klickitat County commissioner was there, her presence marking a fresh page in the tribal-county relationship. Kids squirmed in plastic chairs before bolting across the grass to play between bites. The salmon was simple and smoky, well-salted. People ate what they wanted and took what they needed. Some came up for second helpings. Anyone could walk away with a heavy box of leftovers for a later meal. For a moment, at least, there was no competing for resources or space. There was enough to share. (WKBN) A lot has happened in the past 12 months in the Valley from the explosion at the Realty Building to the Steward Health saga and the legalization of recreational marijuana, First News looked back at the top stories of 2024, as voted on by members of our staff. Read next: Lake-effect snow warnings issued near the Valley The top story was the explosion of the Realty Building in downtown Youngstown. A gas leak in the basement of Youngstowns Realty Tower caused it to ignite and explode. One man was killed and residents of the apartment were displaced. The explosion affected traffic and business downtown, and the historic building was eventually torn down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steward Healths bankruptcy led to the impending closure of Sharon Regional Medical Center while Insight saved Trumbull Regional Medical Center and Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital. Sharon Regional is set to close Jan. 6, while there are efforts in the community to keep it open. The great solar eclipse in April caused travelers to flock to the area, which had some of the best views of the path of totality. The next time a total solar eclipse will occur over the United States isnt for another 20 years, on Aug. 23, 2044, and it will be visible in three states: Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. In August, the sale of recreational marijuana began in Ohio. 2024 was also the year when some of the areas high-profile court cases ended. One of those cases, the murder of 4-year-old Rowan Sweeney in Struthers, ended with the sentencing of three defendants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Crump was sentenced to 52 to 53 1/2 years to life in prison, Kimonie Bryant was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison, and Andre McCoy was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. Prosecutors said the three conspired to rob the boyfriend of Rowans mom, and Rowan was shot and killed in the process. 2024 was also the year of the red wave, as Republicans dominated the national, state and local elections. Donald Trump was elected president again, and in Trumbull County, every contested race was won by Republicans. Read next: Ohio Lottery player wins $25,000 for life at local pizza shop Vienna Townships financial problems were in the spotlight this year. Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber declared the township in a fiscal emergency after it was found that over $1 million of the townships money was misappropriated. Recently, a commission overseeing the township approved a plan to eliminate the deficit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement East Palestine remained in the news following the train derailment from the year before. In February, President Joe Biden walked on the site of the derailment while the rest of the year was spent negotiating a settlement. Finally, in our top stories of the year, former representative Bill Johnson becomes Youngstown State Universitys 10th president. The appointment was not well-received by everyone at the university due to Johnsons political history and was met with rallies both in opposition and support. Watch the video above for a look back at the other top news stories of the year. Chelsea Simeon contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. A Tennessee woman out for a steak dinner informed her server she had a severe allergy to lemons, immediately after which she was served two dishes in a row containing lemons, sending her to the hospital in anaphylactic shock, according to a million-dollar lawsuit filed in Nashville federal court. In it, Katherine Lamb-Jones says staff at a LongHorn Steakhouse in Madison, Tennessee, ignored her multiple requests for a lemon-free meal, resulting in, among other things, physical and emotional pain, mental anguish, and significant medical expenses. The incident took place on November 26, 2023, when Lamb-Jones and her family went for a meal at their local LongHorn, the complaint states. Lamb-Jones had previously eaten at this particular location, and the hostess was already aware of Ms. Lamb-Jones severe lemon allergy, the complaint goes on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal allergic reaction to various things, including insect venom, latex, and certain foods. That night, the complaint continues, Lamb-Jones wasnt taking any chances. Upon being seated at their table, Ms. Lamb-Jones and her family made their server aware of Ms. Lamb-Jones severe lemon allergy, the complaint says. Katherine Lamb-Jones cant tolerate lemons at all, according to her lawsuit (AFP via Getty Images) In addition to making the serving staff aware of her allergy, Lamb-Jones said she took the additional step of specifically inquiring as to the lemon content of the items she had ordered, according to the complaint. Upon being told belatedly by her server that the plate of green beans in front of her had in fact been prepared with lemon, Lamb-Jones promptly sent it back, the complaint states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For her entree, the complaint explains, Lamb-Jones ordered steak, which is not ordinarily a dish accompanied by lemons. After Ms. Lamb-Jones began eating the steak, she was informed by her server that the steak had been prepared with lemon seasoning, the complaint says. Consequently, Ms. Lamb-Jones suffered an anaphylactic allergic reaction that resulted in her having to go to the emergency department of Tristar Skyline Medical Center for treatment. Lamb-Jones suit accuses LongHorn, along with parent company Darden Restaurants (and subsidiary Rare Hospitality Management, which operates the LongHorn chain) of breaching their duty of care to her, as a customer, and demands $1 million in damages. If not treated immediately, anaphylaxis can be deadly (AFP via Getty Images) In a response filed on Monday, LongHorn and its corporate owners denied having breached any duty or having committed any act or omission that caused Lamb-Jones condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defendants at all times acted reasonably and are not liable to the Plaintiff for any sum or sums of money under any legal theory, including premises liability, the response contends. Earlier this year, a New York man sued McDonalds after an errant slice of cheese on his Big Mac caused him to go into anaphylactic shock. Charles Olsen, a music producer with a serious milk allergy, was pushed to the brink of respiratory failure by the alleged screw-up, his lawyer claimed in court filings. Were just so grateful that Mr. Olsen is still with us, Olsens attorney Jory Lange said at the time. An attorney for Lamb-Jones, along with those representing LongHorn, parent company Darden Restaurants, and Darden subsidiary Rare Hospitality Management, which operates the LongHorn chain, did not respond to The Independents request for comment on Tuesday. NEW YORK NEW YORK The homeless woman torched to death at a Brooklyn subway stop has been identified as a 57-year-old woman from New Jersey, officials said Tuesday. Debrina Kawam of Toms River, NJ, was set on fire as she slept in an F train stopped at the end of the line at Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station about 7:30 a.m. Dec. 22. The homicide shocked the city and nation and set off a race to identify the body burned beyond recognition. Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday that he knows little about her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No more than the name and that she resided in New Jersey, Adams said. She had a brief stint in our homeless shelter system, our shelter system. And your heart goes out to the family, a horrific incident to have to live through. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was caught on camera sitting on a bench at the platform, watching his handiwork, before he fled the scene, according to cops. Just watching that tape, just really, I couldnt even watch it all the way through, Adams said Tuesday. It was just a bad incident and it impacts on how we all just feel. But it really reinforced what Ive been saying. People should not be living on our subway system. They should be in a place of care. And no matter where she lived, that should not have happened. Kawams body was so badly burned that investigators could not initially raise her fingerprints. They eventually managed to do so and that led to being able to identify her and notify next of kin, police sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives also scoured the subway system looking for video to learn where and when Kawam stepped onto the F train, officials said. When a body cannot be visually confirmed the city Medical Examiners office takes fingerprints and shares them with law enforcement. The NYPD did an extensive search, found a possible match and sent the fingerprints cops believed were a match to the Medical Examiners office to compare and confirm, sources said. Kawam has no criminal history in New York City but had been arrested nine times in Atlantic City, N.J., between September 2017 and November 2023, mostly for drinking in public and sleeping in the street, New Jersey records show. She relocated to New York City shortly after her last arrest and was issued a summons by cops this past April but it was not immediately disclosed what the summons was for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta is a Guatemalan migrant who was living in a Brooklyn mens shelter before his arrest. People should not be sleeping on subways and on streets of the city of New York and we should not wait until they commit a crime like burning an innocent person or shoving someone on the subway before we say we have a problem, Adams said Tuesday at his weekly press briefing, which he opened by touting how safe the city had become under his administration. Zapeta is accused of setting Kawam on fire with a lighter and then fanning the fire using a shirt, Brooklyn Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg said at his arraignment, where he was ordered held without bail. The deceased became entirely engulfed in flames, Rottenberg said. The defendant then stepped out of the train onto a platform and continued fanning the flames with a shirt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta then threw the shirt to the ground and sat down on a bench on the subway platform to watch his deadly handiwork, prosecutors say. Horrifying video shows the suspect sitting on the bench calmly watching as the flames engulfed the woman, who got to her feet and was standing helplessly near the subway cars open door. A grand jury last week voted to charge Zapeta with first-degree murder, meaning he is facing life without parole if convicted for the disturbing caught-on-camera killing. NEW YORK (PIX11) The NYPD has identified the woman who was burned to death onboard an F train in Brooklyn as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam of Toms River, New Jersey. Kawam was set on fire and killed while likely asleep on a stationary train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station in Brooklyn on Dec. 22, according to police. Her body was so badly burned that authorities said they would likely need to use dental records to identify her. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was indicted on state charges on Friday in connection with Kawams death. Hes being held at Rikers Island until his indictment is unsealed on Jan. 7. Zapeta allegedly set the womans clothes on fire with a lighter and then fanned the flames with a shirt, causing her to become engulfed. He then sat on a platform bench and watched as she burned before leaving the station, according to prosecutors. Later that day, a group of teenagers called 911 after recognizing Zapeta on the subway based on surveillance photos released by the NYPD, officials said. According to prosecutors, Zapeta identified himself in photos and surveillance video from the scene after being taken into custody. He allegedly told investigators he did not know what happened because he had been drinking a lot of liquor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by police after his arrest matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support. This gruesome and senseless act of violence against a vulnerable woman will be met with the most serious consequences, said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. This story includes reporting from the Associated Press. Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The woman who was fatally set on fire in a New York City subway earlier this month has been identified as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam from Toms River, New Jersey, police said Tuesday. Kawam was asleep on an idle F train at the Stillwell Avenue station, in Brooklyn, on Dec. 22, when just before 7:30 a.m. a man set her on fire and fled, according to the New York Police Department. Police did not share any additional information about the victim. The initial release from the NYPD said she was 61, but the age was corrected in a later release. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Kawam had "a brief stint" in the city's homeless shelter system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our hearts go out to the family," Adams said during a news conference Tuesday. "A horrific incident to have to live through and just watching that tape, just really, I couldn't even watch it all the way through. It was just a bad incident and it impacts on how New Yorkers feel." Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez told reporters last week that his heart goes out to the victim and her family. "Just because someone appears to have been living in the situation of homelessness does not mean that theres not going to be family devastated by the tragic way she lost her life," Gonzalez said. A vigil was held for Kawam on Thursday at the Stillwell Avenue station. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, a Guatemalan citizen, was arrested in connection with Kawam's murder the same day, after he was caught on police body camera footage. Subway riders called 911 when they spotted him hours later and officers took him into custody. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, accused of setting a woman on fire inside a New York City subway train, appears in court on Dec. 24. He was indicted on four counts of murder and one count of arson on Friday, per prosecutors. A grand jury indictment was announced in court on one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson, according to the Brooklyn District Attorney's office. The first-degree murder charge carries the possibility of life without parole. Zapeta-Calil appeared in Brooklyn court Tuesday and was remanded back into custody. The Guatemalan citizen is in the U.S. unlawfully and was previously deported, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A woman who was killed when a vehicle struck her while she was crossing a street last week in Tacoma has been identified. Ruth Kigo, 66, died from multiple blunt force injuries on Dec. 26 near South G Street and 72nd Street. Her manner of death has been ruled as an accident, according to the Pierce County Medical Examiners Office in a news release. Police were dispatched at about 5 p.m. and found that Kigo died at the scene, The News Tribune reported. Police believe Kigo was wearing all dark clothing and crossing an unmarked crosswalk when she was struck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The female driver remained at the scene. The woman was arrested, and police believe intoxicants were a factor in the crash. The Pierce County Prosecuting Attorneys Office is reviewing the case, Tacoma Police Department spokesman detective William Muse told The News Tribune on Tuesday. A woman who was found dead with her ankles tied in 1991 at the intersection of two highways in Queens has finally been identified more than 30 years later, authorities announced Monday. Judy Rodriguez, a 30-year-old New York woman who was reported missing earlier that year, was identified as the victim using advanced DNA technology, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. Rodriguez was last seen alive on Jan. 23, 1991, at her youngest daughters first birthday party. Family members reported her missing after failing to locate her shortly afterward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Aug. 25, 1991, cops responded to a call about a dead woman with her legs bound in a grassy area near the interchange of the Cross Island Parkway and Southern State Parkway in Cambria Heights. Though investigators could not identify Rodriguezs body at the time, they did identify four young men suspected of killing her. The killers approached Rodriguez some time between July 15 and Aug. 15, put her in their car and drove her to the interchange, according to investigators. At the scene, they shoved her out of the car and one man struck her in the head with a flashlight, killing her. The suspects returned to the scene two weeks after Rodriguezs death and attempted to cover up her body, police said. The four suspects, ages 18-20, were not publicly identified in Katzs press release. All four were convicted and have since completed their prison sentences in the case. This case is a prime example of the determination of my Cold Case Unit in identifying victims and solving the boroughs oldest, most challenging homicides, Katz said. Authorities in New York City have identified the woman who was killed when a man allegedly set her on fire in a subway car over the weekend. The victim has been identified as 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, NYPD confirms with PEOPLE. Kawam is a resident of Toms River, N.J., per police. NYPD did not comment on whether the woman was homeless. An address provided by NYPD for the woman appears to be an independent home which was sold earlier this year. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, has been charged with murder in the killing, the NYPD previously told PEOPLE. Bruce Cotler/ZUMA Press Wire / SplashNews Sebastian Zapeta Sebastian Zapeta The victim was on a train in Brooklyn on Sunday, Dec. 22, when the suspect allegedly attacked her, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said this week at a press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tisch said the train was pulling into a station when the suspect calmly walked up to the victim" who was sitting in a corner in the subway car. He allegedly used what authorities believe was a lighter to set fire to the victims clothing which was then fully engulfed in flames in a matter of seconds, Tisch said. NYPD Chief of Transit Joseph M. Gulotta said at the press conference that the woman was sitting "motionless" when the suspect approached her, and there was no interaction between the two prior to the attack. The suspect also allegedly sat by on a bench as responding officers, unaware of who he was, tried to help the victim in the car, Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Man Arrested for Setting Woman on Fire in 'Brutal, Senseless Homicide' Inside N.Y.C. Subway Car Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Zapata has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder and first-degree arson, NYPD confirms with PEOPLE. It wasn't immediately clear if he has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on his behalf. Read the original article on People A Michigan woman was killed last week in a car crash just one day after her husband was hospitalized in an ice-fishing incident, authorities say. The 66-year-old woman, a resident of Livonia, died on Friday, Dec. 27, in Oakland Township while she was a passenger in the backseat of a Jeep Grand Cherokee that was hit head-on at 1:53 p.m. local time, according to a statement from the Oakland County Sheriffs Office. The crash occurred when another vehicle crossed the center line, the sheriffs office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver responsible for the crash was identified as a 19-year-old male who driving a 2011 Ford Edge when he collided with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, authorities said. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The Livonia woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver was airlifted to the hospital where he is currently listed in stable condition, the sheriff's office said. Representatives from the Oakland County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for additional comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two additional people in the Jeep, a man and woman, both 62, were also taken to the hospital: The male is listed in stable condition, while his wife is currently in critical condition, according to the sheriffs office. Related: Mom, Dad of 6 Killed in Michigan Crash Involving Stolen Car: 'They Were So Loved' Officials believe the woman who died was on her way to retrieve her husbands vehicle following an ice-fishing accident one day earlier in which he and his grandson fell through the ice at Lake George. This is an unspeakable tragedy that has befallen this family in a very short time, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in the statement from his office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, Dec. 26, the victim's husband, 66, and his 15-year-old grandson had been drilling a hole to go ice fishing when the ice gave away and the grandfather fell into the ice water, the sheriffs office said. Related: Michigan Dad Dead, Wife and Three Sons Injured, After Car Crash: 'Heartbreaking Tragedy' The pair were eventually rescued with the help of a neighbor, who assisted them until paramedics arrived. The teen was treated at the hospital and released, while his grandfather remains in critical condition, the sheriffs office said. "Two tragic and unrelated incidents happen within 24 hours of each other," Bouchard, the sheriff, said in his statement. "It's hard to wrap your hands around it. Our prayers are with the family." Read the original article on People NEW YORK -- The woman who was set on fire and burned to death on a New York City subway car has been identified as Debrina Kawam, of Toms River, New Jersey, police said Tuesday. New York City Mayor Eric Adams told reporters the victim briefly spent time in the city's shelter system, adding his heart goes out to her family. "Horrific incident to have to live through. Watching that tape, I couldn't even watch it all the way through. Just a bad incident, and it impacts on how New Yorkers feel," Adams said. "It really reinforces what I've been saying, people should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care. And no matter where she lived, that should not have happened." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sebastian Zapeta is accused of setting the 57-year-old woman on fire while she was sleeping inside a train car at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn. Prosecutors say he used a lighter to start the fire on Dec. 22 and then used a shirt to fan the flames. The 33-year-old is facing one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson. "These are significant counts. Murder in the first degree carries the possibility of life without parole. It's the most serious statute in New York state law, and my office is very confident about the evidence in this case and our ability to hold Zapeta accountable for his dastardly deeds," Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said when he announced the charges last week. Meanwhile, the mayor's office is pushing for additional federal charges in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Lighting another human being on fire and watching them burn alive reflects a level of evil that cannot be tolerated," the office said in a statement last week. Zapeta is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 7, when the indictment will officially be unsealed. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials say he entered the country illegally from Guatemala in 2018 and was deported, but he reentered sometime afterwards. Suspected driver who slammed truck into New Orleans crowd is dead, sources say What's known about possible explosives, suspect after truck slams into New Orleans crowd Truck plows into Bourbon Street crowd in New Orleans, at least 10 dead | Special Report Atlanta police are investigating after a woman was shot to death on New Years Eve. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] On Tuesday, officers responded to a call around 8:36 a.m. to the Reserve at Hollywood Apartments located at 1634 Hollywood Road in northwest Atlanta. When police got there, they said they found a 28-year-old woman dead from a gunshot wound to her head inside a third-floor apartment. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement APD told Channel 2s Eryn Rogers they have two persons of interest. They said there is no threat to the public. Everyone who was involved is at headquarters being interviewed. Police said the female shooter called in the shooting. It appears there was an escalating dispute between the two, Homicide Commander Lt. Andrew Smith with the Atlanta Police Department said. He said the argument was over a man with a mutual relationship between the two women. Someone who knew the victim told Rogers the 28-year-old was a mother to three young children and the man involved was the father. Homicide Unit investigators later classified the killing as a felon killed by private citizen. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CHICAGO A woman was struck and killed in Joliet early Tuesday morning. Police responded to the intersection of North Larkin and Vernon avenues on the repot of a crash involving a pedestrian at around 5:30 a.m. Police believe a Nissan Sentra, driven by a 25-year-old Joliet man, was northbound on Larkin when the vehicle struck a 55-year-old woman, also of Joliet, who was crossing the roadway. The woman was pronounced dead at St. Joseph Medical Center and the driver remained on the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information can leave a tip at 815-724-3193. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. BLOOMFIELD, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) She vanished without a trace on New Years Eve 2014. Ten years later, Marina Boelters family is still searching for answers. We just want to know what happened. We deserve That. We dont want to be left in the dark and live in this limbo the rest of our lives, said Marinas sister-in-law, Ashley Boelter. Each year doesnt get any easier, it just becomes more manageable with coping skills. At the end of the day we still have no answers, said Marinas sister, Faith Boelter Marina was only 18 when she finished her shift at a then grocery store on Highway 231 in Bloomfield. She left to go home and was never seen again. According to Greene County Prosecutor Jarrod Holtsclaw, her manager reported her missing the next day when Marina did not show up for work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given the passage of time with no evidence of Marinas whereabouts, nor any communication from her to friends or family, this is considered a death investigation. Marina was the mother of a young son. Her family describes her as outgoing, happy, and motivated as she tried to navigate, what at times, could be difficulties in life. They too believe Marina is dead. They said she would never just disappear. Two Vincennes University students killed by someone police never suspected You see it on TV or in a movie and you think that will never happen to me. It happened to us, added Ashley Boelter. . Marinas family hopes someone will come forward with information that will help solve this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You really dont know what that could bring and that could bring peace to our family, said Faith Boelter. Investigators also hope someone will come forward with information on what happened to Marina It has been extremely frustrating in that despite countless hours of work by numerous local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies we have not even been able to locate Marina, let alone determine what has happened to her. She was a young woman with a difficult set of life circumstances, with a young child of her own, living by herself and trying to make a better life. And she vanished, said Prosecutor Holtsclaw. Its incredibly sad. And its been difficult for all of us in that we have been unable to solve this case. But, we are still trying. Indiana man sentenced to max 130 years in prison for murder two young teens Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have any information, youre asked to call Indiana State Police at the Bloomington Post. 812-332-4411 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. Dec. 30LIMA A woman's felonious assault case was recently transferred from Lima Municipal Court to the Allen County Common Pleas Court for review by a grand jury. According to a statement of facts provided in court documents from Lima Police Detective Matt Boss, on Dec. 13 around 4:30 a.m. officers responded to 219 N. Shawnee St. because a man was allegedly run over by a vehicle. The man was found lying face up on the sidewalk with visible injuries, including a bloody mouth and scrapes and bruises around his abdomen, and was taken to Lima Memorial Hospital. The man told officers he and his wife, Kayla Jones, 35, live in Decatur, Indiana and came to Lima to visit friends. The man dropped Jones off, and hours later, he picked her up with another man, identified as Dwan Ward. At some point, Ward allegedly exited the vehicle, opened the driver's side door and attempted to pull the man from the vehicle. The man tried to put the vehicle in drive to get away, but the man said Jones put the car back in park, allowing Ward to pull the man from the car. While the man and Ward were fighting, Jones got into the driver's seat and ran her husband over. Jones and Ward then left the scene in the vehicle. Jones is being held in the Allen County Jail on a $250,000 bond. Ward is also in jail on a seemingly unrelated theft charge. Reach Charlotte Caldwell at 567-242-0451. Featured Local Savings Good morning! The academic community has long debated the impact AI will have on the future labor force. While some leading economists insist the technology will lead to mass job losses, others believe it will create new ones. But a recent working paper looks at the impact that the new tech might have on workers day-to-day and finds that while it could certainly enhance productivity, that could come at a cost. A doctoral student at MIT examined the impact of introducing an AI tool to 1,018 scientists working at a large U.S.-based research and development lab starting in May 2022. He found that the technology helped them make new discoveries and led to an 17% increase in new product creation amongst these workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe the most exciting thing about AI is that it could accelerate scientific discovery and innovation, researcher Aiden Toner-Rodgers told the Wall Street Journal. This would be a huge benefit. But the AI also had other impacts. The tool, which helped generate various recipes for new chemical compounds, accounted for 57% of scientists idea generation. That means that a key, creative part of the process was automated, Toner-Rodgers said. Overall, the scientists main job shifted away from their own original thinking, to evaluating AI-driven ideas, many of which didnt work out in the long run. That also affected worker happiness: 82% of those who used the tool reported reduced job satisfaction, the study concluded. I couldnt help feeling that much of my education is now worthless, one of the scientists who took part in the study told the Wall Street Journal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be sure, this is only one study, and the AI revolution is still in its early days, but it does serve as a potential warning to employers about the kind of drawbacks that come with this technology as they roll it out among their workforce. And it could drastically change how people feel about the future of their chosen professions. Brit Morse brit.morse@fortune.com CHRO Daily will return to your inbox Thursday, Jan. 2. Happy New Year! This story was originally featured on Fortune.com The worlds oldest religious leader had a big year. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints turned 100 in September. Newsweek reported that he was the oldest living leader of a major religion. Pope Francis turned 88 this month. The Dalai Lama is 89. President Nelson is closing out his seventh year as the churchs president and prophet. He has had busier years, but not by much. To be fair, he wasnt a century old then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have never had a prophet have a year like this, said Richard E. Turley Jr., a Latter-day Saint historian writing an upcoming biography of Joseph Smith. Weve never had a modern prophet who has had a 100th year, and therefore its unprecedented. Most centenarians arent leading global organizations, guiding the spiritual lives of 17.2 million people at major international conferences, receiving ambassadors from at least eight nations, dedicating major buildings, chairing the boards of education for four universities and colleges or overseeing $1 billion in humanitarian aid efforts. I think youd be hard pressed to find not just a religious leader but a leader of any kind in the world whos 100 years old and functioning at that level, Turley said. President Nelson is serving his 41st year as an apostle, a calling that came while he was still at the height of a landmark career as a pioneering heart surgeon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, President Nelson finished his 100th year and began his 101st. Heres a quick-read look at what he did. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints waves while standing with his counselors, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency and president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, during the First Presidencys Christmas Devotional in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson greets Georgi Panayotov, ambassador of Bulgaria to the United States, at the Church Administration Building on Temple Square on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints aalong with his wife Sister Wendy Nelson dedicates the Church's 200th temple, the Deseret Peak Utah Temple in Tooele on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints dedicated the Church's 200th temple, the Deseret Peak Utah Temple in Tooele on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Samantha , Audrey, Kristen and Halee Galbraith and Grace Allen peer through the fence to get a glimpse of President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the dedication of the Church's 200th temple, the Deseret Peak Utah Temple in Tooele on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson greets Her Excellency Lianys Torres Rivera, Charge dAffaires and Ambassador of the Embassy of Cuba, on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, in the Church Administration Building in Salt Lake City, Utah. | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Audience members listen as President Russell M. Nelson, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, announces 17 new temples will be built, during the Sunday afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, waves as he exits after the Sunday afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Russell M. Nelson, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, exclaims as he sees his wife, Sister Wendy Nelson, during the afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson thanked all those who sent cards or other messages for his 100th birthday, saying, "With joy in my heart, and a spirit of deep thanksgiving, I express my love for you." | Christina Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints The Rev. Theresa Dear takes a selfie with President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during his 100th birthday celebration at the Little Theatre of the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox and his wife, Abby, meet with President Russell M. Nelson in the Church Administration Building on Temple Square on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024. Gov. Cox declared President Nelson's 100th birthday on September 9, 2024, President Russell M. Nelson Day in Utah. | Christina Smith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Sister Wendy W. Nelson prior to the rededication of the Manti Utah Temple in Manti, Utah, on Sunday, April 21, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints clasps his hands and gestures toward the audience as he and his counselors, President Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency, left, and President Henry B. Eyring, second counselor in the First Presidency, take their seats prior to the afternoon session of the 194th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Sunday, April 7, 2024. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints A record-setting birthday His 100th birthday set an official world record long before Sept. 9 became President Russell M. Nelson Day in Utah by declaration of Gov. Spencer Cox. On Aug. 3, participants in a young single adult conference set a Guinness World Record for Most Contributions to a Greeting Card. The official counting for the record stopped after 31,384 people had written in-person and virtual birthday messages to President Nelson. His 100th birthday wish, however, had been for others to look outward instead of at him. The record-setting birthday card directed attention to his request in June, when he asked those who wanted to commemorate his birthday to follow Jesus Christs teaching about the shepherd in the parable of the lost sheep. He asked them to give a gift of their love to the one in their life who theyve noticed was feeling lost or alone. President Nelsons major newsmaking leadership in 2024 In March, the First Presidency led by President Nelson announced the purchase of the historic Kirtland Temple and other historic buildings and artifacts from Community of Christ for $192.5 million. The temple, finished in 1836, was the first constructed in Latter-day Saint history. The sun rises on the Kirtland Ohio Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply honored to assume the stewardship of these sacred places, documents and artifacts, he said in a statement. We thank our friends at Community of Christ for their great care and cooperation in preserving these historical treasures thus far. We are committed to doing the same. Later that same month, the First Presidency named Derrick Porter the new voice for Music & the Spoken Word, the famed weekly radio and TV program of the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square. In May, President Nelson supervised the release of the first batch of hymns for the churchs new global hymnbook. In July, the First Presidency delivered a stunning announcement that Brigham Young University will launch a new medical school. The spiritual leadership President Nelson provided in 2 general conference talks in 2024 In October, a month after turning 100, President Nelson became the first Latter-day Saint prophet to give a conference talk in his second century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He made concessions to his age, sitting in a chair and using a desktop teleprompter in a prerecorded message because, he said, my eyes are getting older. His message was robust. The best is yet to come because the Savior is coming again, President Nelson said. The best is yet to come because the Lord is hastening his work. The best is yet to come as we fully turn our hearts and our lives to Jesus Christ. He said God had instructed Latter-day Saint leaders to build temples at an unprecedented pace President Nelson has announced 185 new temples over the past seven years because temple blessings prepare people for Christs second coming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is my promise to you: Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find him in the temple. You will feel his mercy. You will find answers to your most vexing questions. You will better comprehend the joy of his gospel, he said. He also called his decision to follow Jesus Christ the most important decision in his life. And he urged listeners to rededicate their lives to Christ and devote time each week to understanding his Atonement. President Russell M. Nelson, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, speaks during the afternoon session of the 194th Semiannual General Conference on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024. | The Church of Jesus Christ of La In his April conference talk, President Nelson told Latter-day Saints that the temple is the gateway to the greatest blessings God has for each of us. My dear brothers and sisters, here is my promise, he said. Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod than worshiping in the temple as regularly as your circumstances permit. Nothing will protect you more as you encounter the worlds mists of darkness. Nothing will bolster your testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ and his Atonement or help you understand Gods magnificent plan more. Nothing will soothe your spirit more during times of pain. Nothing will open the heavens more. Nothing! President Nelson dedicated 2 temples in 2024 President Nelson made a surprise appearance to rededicate the pioneer-era Manti Utah Temple on April 21. The event had great personal meaning because his mother and father were born in the Sanpete Valley, where the temple can be seen for miles. His four grandparents also lived there after all eight of his great-grandparents were part of one of the earliest settlements in the very center of the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We pray also that this may be a house of peace, a house of comfort and a house of personal revelation ..., he said in the rededicatory prayer. Attendees line up outside the Manti Utah Temple prior to its rededication in Manti, Utah, on Sunday, April 21, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News On Nov. 10, he dedicated the churchs 200th temple. This one was 30 miles southwest of Salt Lake City. When I contemplate the privilege of dedicating the Deseret Peak Utah Temple ... I am filled with awe at all the Lord is doing for his people, President Nelson said. When I was born, there were just six operating temples in the church. He also noted that the 100th temple was dedicated in 2000. Now, just 24 years later, we are dedicating the second 100, he said. The Lord is truly hastening his work. I am filled with gratitude for the Lords mercy in guiding us to bring temples closer to members of the church throughout the world. President Nelson received at least 8 major international leaders in 2024 On Jan. 18 President Nelson hosted Bergdis Ellertsdottir, Icelands ambassador to the United States at church headquarters in Salt Lake City. On Nov. 14 he welcomed Georgi Panayotov, ambassador of Bulgaria to the United States. In between, he met with the ambassadors to the United States from Australia, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. He also received visits from the president of the Navajo Nation, the special envoy to the Middle East for the president of Indonesia and the charge daffaires of the Embassy of Cuba. A great pleasure to call on the President & Prophet @NelsonRussellM in Utah at the global HQ for @Ch_JesusChrist. The Church has more than 150,000 members across some 300 Australian congregations, and provides humanitarian aid & community service around the world. pic.twitter.com/4CqRvGAd2I Kevin Rudd AC (@AmboRudd) March 1, 2024 President Nelson announced 32 new temples in 2024 President Nelson assigned other church leaders to dedicate 15 other new temples during the year. The total of 16 new temples dedicated and opened in a single year is more than any other year in church history except one. In 2000, the church dedicated 34. President Nelson also announced plans to build an additional 32 temples in the future during the faiths two international general conferences in 2024. At the end of the April conference, he announced 15, including the first temples for Scotland and Iowa. At the October conference, he announced 17, including the first temples for Ireland, Uganda, New Jersey and Wisconsin. President Nelson will be remembered for temple building. In all, he has announced 185 temples in seven years. When all are built, the church will have 367 temples. Most people who reach their 100th year have declined to the point at which they cannot function very well, but hes been remarkably bright, capable and continuing to function in his role as president of the church, giving great conference messages, announcing new temples, encouraging everyone to draw closer to Christ, including by attending the temple, said Turley, a former assistant church historian and recorder and retired managing director of the Public Affairs Department. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Abraham Kenneth Ezra Williams ordered spaghettini with pesto sauce. He didnt know it was going to be his last meal. A wrongful death lawsuit filed Dec. 26 alleges a cascade of mistakes after Williams collapsed apparently due to shellfish contamination of the food he ate at Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. The lawsuit says Williams advised the restaurant of his allergy. A wide net cast by the lawyers representing Williams mother, his father, and his estate accuses a long list of defendants of errors that ended in his death on April 30, 2024, four days after he ate at Beauty & Essex. The defendants are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas Community Ambulance The Clark County Fire Department (CCFD) Beauty & Essex Las Vegas unnamed individuals and companies Employees of the restaurant failed to respond effectively to Williams medical emergency, according to the lawsuit. After taking a single bite, he fell ill and went to the restroom. His friends helped him outside, where someone had already called 911. The lawsuit alleges that employees who were trained to render CPR and other aid failed to do so. Instead, they stood by watching as Williams choked for air. Employees of Defendant Cosmopolitan and/or Beauty & Essex created a barricade around the Decedent and refused to let anyone through to perform any life saving techniques, the lawsuit said. In addition to specific allegations of failure to render aid, the lawsuit also said EMS personnel from Community Ambulance and CCFD didnt properly follow procedures for treating a patient in anaphylactic shock. That led to delays in administering medication, improper monitoring of his condition, and eventually oxygen deprivation. His condition was in decline when he was taken to the hospital by ambulance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Williams arrived at Sunrise Hospital, he went into respiratory arrest and cardiac arrest, according to the lawsuit. The hospital couldnt intubate him due to severe swelling, so a cricothyrotomy was performed. He was taken to intensive care and placed on a ventilator. On information and belief, Decedent suffered respiratory arrest while at Defendant Cosmopolitan and Defendant Beauty & Essexs premises and due to the time elapsed until medical treatment was provided, Decedent suffered severe brain damage and eventual death, according to the lawsuit. Williams was taken off a ventilator on April 28 and died two days later. The lawsuit demands a jury trial in Clark County District Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christian Morris Trial Attorneys are representing the Williams family his father, Kenneth Allen Williams, and his mother, Angela Gaboury and the estate. The family resides in Georgia. The lawsuit seeks general and special damages in excess of $15,000, as well as punitive damages against the defendants. It also seeks interest, attorneys fees and any further relief deemed just and proper by the court. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. TOWANDA, Pa. (WETM) A Wysox man will spend the next couple of years on probation for stealing copper wire from a job site. Michael Thomas Sutton, 53, was sentenced to 24 months of probation after being convicted of theft of a secondary metal (a third-degree felony), according to the Bradford County District Attorneys Office. One arrested after alleged church burglary in Bradford County The Pennsylvania State Police arrested Sutton in June 2024 after he stole a spool of copper fire from a site on Morris Road in Overton Township. The spool that Sutton stole had a GPS tracker device attached to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GPS device helped authorities find the stolen wire at Suttons home. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping in a New Year's address declared Taiwan and China to be one people and said no nation can stop China from annexing the island nation. "We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one an the same family," Xi said during his 2025 New Year Address that was televised nationwide on Tuesday. "No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese officials consider Taiwan to be part of the Chinese mainland and has a "One China" policy declaring Taiwan to be part of China's sovereign state. China during the past year has sent warships and military aircraft into the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan in what Taiwanese officials say is an effort to normalize the presence of the Chinese military in the area. China also has declared ownership of most of the South China Sea and its islands. Taiwanese officials reject China's ownership claims over the island nation that is located about 100 miles east of the Chinese mainland and is separated by the Taiwan Strait. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taiwan has strong trade ties with the United States, which is Taiwan's primary supplier of military weapons. Taiwan is the world's largest producer of semiconductor chips used to power technology and accounts for up to 90% of the world's supply of semiconductors. During his New Year Address, Xi acknowledged the Chinese economy faces new "challenges of uncertainties" as the nation prepares to complete a 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025 that Xi said will make China more self-reliant and stronger economically through advancements in science, technology and social development. "We can prevail in our hard work," Xi said during the address. "As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's economy has slowed after the COVID-19 pandemic that triggered a collapse in the nation's real estate sector and forced many businesses to close, which has increased unemployment. The Chinese economy has improved with an estimated gross domestic product exceeding $18 trillion in 2024. Xi said China's continued development and production of electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, integrated circuits, quantum communications and other technologies will help fuel its economic recovery. The northern lights put on a show across Ohio in May and returned for an encore performance in October. Could Ohioans be watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve or celebrating the new year under the glow of the aurora borealis? It's possible, with a strong solar storm expected to impact the Earth on Dec. 31. Here's what to know. Northern lights could shine over Ohio on New Year's Eve The Space Weather Prediction Center reports that the aurora borealis could glow over the United States on Tuesday, thanks to a coronal mass ejection that left the sun on Dec. 29. The center has issued a strong geomagnetic storm watch, level G3 out of 5, for Dec. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the solar storm hits at that level, it could push the northern lights into the northernmost states and as far south as Lake Erie, possibly making them visible from Northern Ohio. If the storm grows in strength, the aurora could be pushed farther south over Ohio. Will the northern lights be visible in Cincinnati? Though people in the Cincinnati area and even Northern Kentucky could see the lights in October, it is unlikely the spectacle will be visible over the region this time, according to the latest projections. The sky in 2025: Every eclipse, comet, meteor shower to see in Ohio Northern lights map This map from the Space Weather Prediction Center shows how far south the northern lights might come. This map from the Space Weather Prediction Center shows where the northern lights might be seen on Dec. 31, if the forecast solar storm hits as expected. The red line is the farthest south the aurora borealis might be visible. If the storm grows in strength, the aurora might push farther south into Ohio. What is the aurora borealis? What causes the northern lights? Auroras are ribbons of light weaving across Earth's northern or southern polar regions, according to NASA. They are caused by magnetic storms that have been triggered by solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections. Energetic charged particles from these events are carried away from the Sun by the solar wind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These energized particles hit the atmosphere at 45 million mph and are redirected to the poles by the earth's magnetic field, according to Space.com, creating the light show. During major geomagnetic storms, they expand away from the poles and can be seen over some parts of the United States, according to the NOAA. What is a coronal mass ejection? NASA describes coronal mass ejections as "huge bubbles of coronal plasma threaded by intense magnetic field lines that are ejected from the Sun over the course of several hours." The Akron Beacon Journal reports that the space agency says they often look like "huge, twisted rope" and can occur with solar flares, or explosions on the sun's surface. What causes the northern lights? About the aurora borealis and why it's visible over Ohio How to view the aurora borealis in Ohio During times of high geomagnetic activity, which pushes the northern lights further south, the aurora will be visible directly overhead in the northern United States, according to the prediction center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the best viewing, the center recommends that it be very dark. Get away from city lights and avoid trying to see them on the night of a full moon. The best time to view the aurora is within an hour or two of midnight, or 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Will the northern lights come to Ohio again in 2025? While there's no guarantee where the northern lights will be seen in 2025, the potential is there for more visits to Ohio. The sun has entered its solar maximum, NASA and the NOAA announced in October, meaning it is at its most active for sunspots that generate those solar storms. The sun will be at its maximum for a year, NASA reports, after which solar storms will decrease and take the aurora with them. However, the northern lights are fickle. It's never 100% certain they'll show up in Ohio until they appear over your head. Still, the aurora borealis can be forecast with a certain degree of accuracy. And that's the job of the Space Weather Prediction Center. The center monitors sunspots, solar flares and plasma emissions called coronal mass ejections that could impact the electrical grid, communication, satellites and more. It also announces when these solar storms could energize the aurora, pushing it out of its arctic home and into the United States. Due to the travel time of these storms from the sun to the Earth, the center's forecasts come with a day or two of advance notice. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Will the northern lights be visible in Cincinnati on New Year's Eve? As champagne corks pop and fireworks light up the sky tonight, millions will toast to new beginnings and luck. But for many, the real work of securing a prosperous new year begins tomorrow, with rituals rooted in superstition. And there are plenty of rules to follow to make sure good fortune doesnt slip away, from avoiding chores to choosing the right foods for the first meal of the year. Here are some things to know and things to blow for your New Year's celebrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: When can I buy beer in Texas? Here's when alcohol sales end on New Year's Eve When was the first New Year's Day celebration? The first recorded New Year's Day celebration dates back to 4,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia, around 2000 BCE. The Sumerians, who lived in the region that is now modern-day Iraq, celebrated the beginning of the year during the spring equinox in late March, according to the History Channel. This was the time when the first crops began to grow, marking a time of renewal and rebirth. However, the January 1st date for New Years Day as we know it today was not established until the Roman calendar reform under Julius Caesar in 45 BCE. Caesar's Julian calendar set January 1st as the official start of the year to honor the Roman god Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions, who was symbolized by a two-faced figure looking both forward and backward. More: Will polar vortex hit Texas on NYE? Temps will drop, but freezing weather coming next week When do we eat black-eyed peas and greens for good luck? Traditionally, black-eyed peas and greens are eaten on New Year's Day preferably as the first meal of the year. The peas symbolize coins, and the greens represent money, both believed to bring prosperity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But dont cook them with chicken or beef stock, as it's thought that these meats can spoil the good luck. Because chickens and cows graze backward and sideways, many believe it symbolizes regression, making them bad omens for the year ahead. Why should you avoid sweeping or cleaning on New Year's Day? Cleaning or sweeping on New Year's Day is considered bad luck, as its thought to sweep away good fortune. The same goes for doing laundry or taking out the trash avoid these chores if you want to keep your luck intact. Theres also the belief that chores like washing dishes and cleaning laundry "wash" loved ones away, so its best to save these tasks for another day. Are fireworks a symbol of luck? In Chinese New Year celebrations, fireworks are particularly significant. They are believed to scare away the mythical monster Nian, who would terrorize villages at the start of the new year. The loud sounds and flashes of light were thought to frighten Nian and other evil spirits. Chinese New Year falls on Jan. 29, 2025. Why should you eat pork on New Year's Day? Pork is a popular choice for New Year's Day meals, symbolizing forward progress, and it happens to pair perfectly with both black-eyed peas and collard greens. Pigs root forward when they eat, and eating pork ensures your year stays on track. What is the first footer tradition and why does it matter? In some cultures, the first person to enter your home after midnight (the First Footer) is essential for good luck. For the best luck, the first footer should be a dark-haired male, ideally bringing gifts like coal, bread, or salt to ensure abundance in the new year. Does kissing at midnight really bring love and luck? Kissing someone at midnight is said to ensure a year full of love and happiness. Whether it's a romantic partner or a close friend, a kiss at the stroke of midnight is thought to set the tone for the years relationships. Why do we eat 12 grapes at midnight? Eating 12 grapes at midnight is a popular New Year's tradition, particularly in Spain and several Latin American countries. The tradition is believed to bring good luck for each of the 12 months of the upcoming year, CBS News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tradition reportedly began in Spain in the late 1800s, possibly as a way to use up a surplus of grapes harvested that year. Over time, it became a widely cherished practice not only in Spain but across many Spanish-speaking countries. Why do we wear yellow or red underwear? Latin American and European countries wear yellow or read underwear for good luck. Yellow underwear is linked to wealth and good fortune, making it a popular choice for people hoping for financial abundance and a joyful year ahead, according to CVT News. In some countries, such as Mexico, its especially common for people to wear yellow underwear on New Years Eve to attract money and positive energy. Red underwear is said to bring romantic luck, ensuring a year full of love and excitement, Forbes reported. In countries like Brazil, wearing red on New Years Eve is a common tradition for those hoping to find love or strengthen existing relationships in the year to come. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: New Year's 2025 traditions: Black-eyed peas, midnight kiss and more (Reuters) -Yemen's Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam said that the country would continue to defend itself after several U.S. strikes targeted facilities in the capital Sanaa on Tuesday. The U.S. military said that it carried out strikes against Houthi targets in Sanaa and coastal locations in Yemen on Monday and Tuesday. "On Dec. 30 and 31, U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon (ACW) production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV)," the U.S. military's Central Command said in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Iran-backed militant group in Yemen has been attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea for more than a year to try to enforce a naval blockade on Israel, saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Israel's year-long war in Gaza. (Reporting by Enas Alashray, Nayera Abdallah, Mohammed Ghobari in Aden and Idrees Ali in Washington Editing by Gareth Jones and Ros Russell) The Iranian-backed Houthi militia in Yemen on Tuesday claimed to have attacked the international airport in Tel Aviv as well as targets in Jerusalem. Houthi military spokesman Yehya Saree said in a televised statement that Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport and an electricity plant in the Jerusalem area had been attacked with ballistic missiles. He also claimed that a "major air attack" by the US military with drones and cruise missiles had been repelled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are ready to confront any Zionist-American threats aimed at preventing Yemen from fulfilling its religious, moral and humanitarian duty towards Palestine," the military spokesman said. Late Monday the Houthi-affiliated television channel al-Masirah reported that a US-British "aggression" had targeted the Al-Tuhayta District, south of Hodeidah. The Israeli military said that its air defences had intercepted a missile fired from Yemen. Hundreds of thousands of people rushed to shelters shortly before midnight when sirens sounded in the coastal city of Tel Aviv and other places in central Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missile was intercepted outside Israel's borders, it said. According to local media, falling rocket debris did not cause any major damage, but a large fragment hit a road in a town near Jerusalem. Since the onset of the Gaza war more than a year ago, Yemen's Houthi rebels have targeted Israel with missile and drone attacks. The Houthis are allied with Israel's arch-enemy Iran, like Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the Lebanese Hezbollah militia. The Houthi militants have also been attacking ships in the Red Sea, saying the attacks are intended to support the Palestinian Islamist Hamas group and force an end to the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. (NewsNation) As the world readies to welcome in 2025, New York City is preparing for the annual New Years Eve ball drop with extra security. The New York Police Department is preparing for a million people to descend on Times Square, with a security perimeter in place and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds already forming the day before. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said there are no credible threats at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former President Jimmy Carters state funeral: What we know There are no specific credible threats to the Times Square New Years Eve celebration, she said. However, we have been operating in a heightened threat environment since October 7, and we remain vigilant. The perimeter extends from 39th Street up to 58th Street, and street closures will begin at 4 a.m., isolating Times Square. There will be uniformed and plainclothes officers on the ground along with K9 teams, mounted police, helicopters and drones in the sky and boats on the rivers. One risk is pickpocketers amid the crowd of a million as well as at area hotels where many go to celebrate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the NYPD will be at maximum staffing, the Port Authority will be vigilant, and the National Guard is standing by in case anything happens. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. NEW YORK (AP) The woman who died after being set on fire in a New York subway train this month was a 57-year-old from New Jersey, police announced Tuesday. The woman, Debrina Kawam, had worked at the pharmaceutical giant Merck in from 2000 until 2002, but her life at some point took a rocky turn. She had briefly been in a New York homeless shelter after moving to the city recently, the Department of Social Services said. It did not say when. Police had an address for Kawam in Toms River, a community on the Jersey Shore, and authorities said they notified her family about her Dec. 22 death. The Associated Press left messages Tuesday for possible relatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hearts go out to the family a horrific incident to have to live through, Mayor Eric Adams said at an unrelated news briefing. It came hours before another harrowing act of violence on the nation's busiest subway system. A 45-year-old man was pushed onto the tracks ahead of an oncoming train at a station under Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood about 1:30 p.m., police said. The man was taken to a hospital in critical condition, and police said they had a person of interest in custody. Personal safety in the subways is generally comparable to safety in the city as a whole. But life-threatening crimes such as stabbings and shoves spread alarm about the trains that have carried more than 1 billion riders over the course of this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police figures show major crimes on subways were down this year through November, compared with the same period last year, but killings rose from five to nine. In Karam's case, prosecutors have said she was asleep on a subway train that was stopped at a station in Brooklyn's Coney Island when her clothes were set ablaze by a stranger, Sebastian Zapeta. Zapeta, 33, allegedly fanned the flames with a shirt, engulfing her in the blaze, before sitting on a platform bench and watching as she burned. Identifying the victim proved to be a challenge, and authorities said Friday that they were still using forensics and video surveillance to trace her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta has been been indicted on murder and arson charges. He has not entered a plea, and his lawyer has declined to comment outside court. Federal immigration officials say Zapeta is from Guatemala and entered the U.S. illegally. An address for him given by police matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support. Zapeta was arrested after police circulated images of a suspect and received a tip from a group of high school students. Prosecutors have said Zapeta subsequently told police that he was the man in surveillance photos and videos of the fire being ignited, but that he drinks a lot of liquor and does not know what happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is currently jailed, and his next court date is Jan. 7. While it is not clear why Kawam was asleep in a subway car, New York's subways often unofficially function as a refuge for homeless people. In theory, legal settlements give homeless individuals a broad right to shelter in the city, but some turn to the trains if they are unable to stay in shelters or fearful about safety in them. On the morning of the fire, temperatures were around 20 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 6.5 Celsius) and had been below freezing for 24 hours, according to data from nearby Brooklyn weather stations. No matter where she lived, that should not have happened, the mayor said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The social services department said it would amplify its efforts to reach and help homeless people on streets and subways and encourage them to use shelters. ___ This story has corrected Kawam's age based on updated information from the police. She was 57, not 61. President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Presidential Office Deputy Head Roman Mashovets, the Presidents Office wrote on Dec. 30. Mashovets had been in the role since April 2020 under the Presidential Office Head Andriy Yermak and oversaw the military direction of the President's Office. He has an extensive history in the Ukrainian military, including 25 deployments to eastern Ukraine, and helped found the Special Operations Forces. However, Zelensky was unhappy with Mashovets' work, according to unnamed sources cited by Ukrainian media outlet New Voice of Ukraine (NV). On Nov. 30, Zelensky appointed Pavlo Palisa, former commander of Ukraine's famous 93rd Mechanized Brigade, as deputy head of the President's Office, which the source said helped pave the way for Mashovets dismissal. The president needs timely and real information from the front, information about the needs of the military, which is why they chose Palisa, the source told NV. The source also claims that Mashovets relationship with intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov was a trigger for a long time, although they did not expand on who exactly was triggered. Mashovets did not respond to NVs request for comment. Cabinet reshuffles were commonplace in 2024. Zelensky said on Dec. 28 that his team is "preparing several important personnel decisions" that will be "announced soon." Two days later on Dec. 30, Zelensky dismissed Ruslan Kravchenko, the governor of Kyiv Oblast, and Filip Pronin, the governor of Poltava Oblast. On Dec. 31, Kravchenko was appointed head of the State Tax Service. In September, Zelensky launched the largest wartime government reshuffle, replacing key ministers and appointing a number of new advisors and deputies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine can help restore stability in Syria after years of Russian interference, Zelensky says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) Zimbabwe has abolished the death penalty, a widely expected move in a country that last carried out the punishment nearly two decades ago. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who once faced the death penalty himself in the 1960s during the war of independence, approved the law this week after a bill passed through Parliament. Zimbabwe has about 60 prisoners on death row, and the new law spares them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The country last executed someone in 2005, partly because at one point no one was willing to take up the job of state executioner. Amnesty International on Tuesday described the law as a beacon of hope for the abolitionist movement in the region." Other African countries such as Kenya, Liberia and Ghana have recently taken positive steps towards abolishing the death penalty but are yet to put it into law, according to the human rights group, which campaigns against the death penalty. Mnangagwa, Zimbabwes leader since 2017, has publicly spoken of his opposition to capital punishment. He has cited his experience of being sentenced to death later changed to 10 years in prison for blowing up a train during the war of independence from white minority rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also has used presidential amnesties to commute death sentences to life in prison. According to Amnesty International, about three-quarters of countries in the world use capital punishment. It says 24 African countries have fully abolished the death penalty, among 113 countries globally. Amnesty International said it recorded 1,153 known executions globally in 2023, up from 883 the previous year, although countries that carried out executions declined from 20 to 16. Due to a veil of secrecy, the figures do not include those in North Korea, Vietnam and China, which the rights group has described as the worlds lead executioner. Iran and Saudi Arabia accounted for almost 90% of all executions recorded by Amnesty in 2023, followed by Somalia and the U.S. State lawmakers are considering making it a traffic violation to operate a vehicle in Arizona with an animal on the drivers lap. The violation would come with a fine. Do you agree? You voted: The National Bank of Hungary (NBH) has fined MBH Bank and its unit MBH Investment Bank HUF 27.5m for failing to complete remedial measures, the central bank and financial market watchdog said on Monday. The NBH had ordered the banks to correct IT shortfalls in a probe covering the period 2022-2023. The banks' failure to follow through with the remedial measures poses no risk to their secure operation, the NBH said, but noted MBH Bank's significant market scale. Meanwhile, Competition Office levies more than HUF 4bn of fines in 2024 Hungary's Competition Office (GVH) has levied more than HUF 4bn of fines in 2024, the watchdog's head, Csaba Balazs Rigo, said in an interview with daily Magyar Nemzet. Rigo said fines had been reduced by a combined HUF 2.5bn for companies that had cooperated with GVH, acknowledging violations and waiving their right to legal recourse. He highlighted a HUF 1.2bn fine for cartel activity involving a public procurement contract for railway developments around Debrecen (E Hungary). Rigo said a probe of Spar Magyarorszag, to determine if the supermarket chain had fulfilled earlier commitments, could wind up in H1 2025. He added that probes of online marketplace Temu and software company Microsoft were also ongoing. Rigo said urgent measures were needed to address the big competitive advantage tech giants enjoy in the area of artificial intelligence. He said an online platform for comparing food prices at Hungary's biggest supermarket chains had saved shoppers around HUF 20bn during a three-month period and would continue to operate in 2025. MagNet Bank group fined for shortfalls The National Bank of Hungary (NBH) has fined MagNet Bank and MagNet Faktor HUF 63m for failure to comply fully with regulations on enterprise management, risk management and IT security, the central bank and financial market watchdog said on Tuesday. The NBH set deadlines for taking remedial measures. Watchdog fines OTP, MBH for insufficient remedial measures The National Bank of Hungary (NBH) has fined OTP Bank and MBH Bank, the country's two biggest commercial lenders, more than HUF 43m for failing to take all required steps to correct shortfalls regarding the prevention of money laundering and financing of terrorism, the central bank and financial market regulator said on Tuesday. The NBH had instructed the lenders earlier to take remedial measures because of the regulatory shortfalls. Source: MTI - The Hungarian News Agency, founded in 1881. ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? Then just contact us here. Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, known for his impactful storytelling, is currently in the midst of shooting his much-anticipated film, The Delhi Files. Amid the excitement, Agnihotri took to social media to express his gratitude for veteran actor Anupam Kher and shared heartwarming pictures alongside Kher and his wife, producer Pallavi Joshi. In his post, Agnihotri wrote, Kher Saab isnt just an incredible actor but a friend whos more like family. Whether on-screen or off, your warmth and wisdom make every moment unforgettable. @AnupamPKher, truly blessed to have you by my side! The heartfelt message highlighted the deep camaraderie between the two creative powerhouses. Speculation is rife that Anupam Kher will collaborate with Vivek Agnihotri in The Delhi Files, adding to their string of successful partnerships. The duo has previously worked together on The Kashmir Files and The Vaccine War, both of which earned critical acclaim and showcased Khers exceptional acting prowess. Fans are eagerly awaiting another compelling narrative from the upcoming project. Kher Saab isnt just an incredible actor but a friend whos more like family. Whether on-screen or off, your warmth and wisdom make every moment unforgettable.@AnupamPKher, truly blessed to have you by my side! pic.twitter.com/2UKSoxwK27 December 31, 2024 Titled "The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter," the film is being directed by Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri and jointly produced by Abhishek Agarwal and Pallavi Joshi. Presented by Tej Narayan Agarwal and I Am Buddha Productions, the film is slated for a worldwide release on August 15, 2025. The project promises to deliver another thought-provoking cinematic experience, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. If you find it hard to remember long number sequences, don't worry. Once you learn why 5201314 means "I love you for a lifetime," you'll remember it easily. It's amazing to have a number that shows how lovers feel about each other. The story behind the number is even more special. The number 5201314, which has become popular online, stands for "I love you for a lifetime. Short forms in texts have become popular with the rise of social media and WhatsApp, as young people use them to express their emotions. The number 5201314 has recently become a trend on social media. It went viral and has been widely shared." Here's how it works. Chinese connection The numbers 5 and 20 are pronounced as "Wu'er ling" in Mandarin, which sounds similar to (Wo ai ni), meaning "I love you." The numbers 1314 are pronounced similarly to the phrase for "a lifetime" in Mandarin. Internet slang in texting There are many shortcuts to saying "I love you." For example, you can write 143 because the words "I," "Love," and "You" have 1, 4, and 3 letters, respectively. In texting, people might use "ILY" as a shortcut. Similarly, in Chinese, the number 520 sounds like "I love you" when pronounced, so its used as internet slang. This number is very popular among Chinese people, and on social media, they use 520 to express "I love you" in Mandarin. Some people have started treating the number 520 as a symbol for Valentine's Day on social media, linking it to the date May 20 (5 for the month and 20 for the day) in China. Some other slangs used on social media The number 143 is commonly used to represent "I love you," with each digit corresponding to the number of letters in the words "I," "Love," and "You." On the other hand, 182 is used as a code for "I hate you." New Years Day is a global celebration that transcends cultures, religions, and geographies. As we welcome 2025, it is worth exploring the origins, traditions, and significance of this special day that unites people worldwide in the spirit of renewal and hope. History of New Years Day The celebration of the new year dates back to ancient civilizations. The earliest recorded festivities were in Mesopotamia around 2000 BCE, where the new year was celebrated during the vernal equinox. In ancient Rome, the calendar reform under Julius Caesar in 45 BCE established January 1 as the start of the new year, aligning with the Roman god Janus, the deity of beginnings and transitions. In medieval Europe, the Christian Church temporarily replaced January 1 with dates of religious significance, such as Christmas or Easter. However, the Gregorian calendar, introduced in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII, reinstated January 1 as New Years Day, which is widely followed today. Significance of New Years Day New Years Day represents a fresh start, a time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. It symbolizes renewal, hope, and the universal desire for progress and positivity. For many, it is also a time to strengthen bonds with loved ones and embrace new opportunities. Why We Celebrate New Years Day The celebration of New Years Day is steeped in tradition and cultural practices. From fireworks and countdowns to festive meals and resolutions, the day is marked by rituals that reflect the aspirations and values of communities worldwide. Common customs include: Resolutions: People set personal and professional goals to bring about self-improvement and growth. Fireworks: Symbolizing joy and excitement, fireworks illuminate skies worldwide to welcome the new year. Festive Meals: Foods like lentils, grapes, or round fruits are eaten in various cultures to bring good fortune. Parties and Gatherings: Social events foster a sense of togetherness and celebration. Unique New Year Traditions Around the World Spain: Eating 12 grapes at midnight to ensure good luck for each month of the year. Japan: Ringing temple bells 108 times to cleanse sins and invite prosperity. Denmark: Smashing old dishes on friends doorsteps as a sign of affection and good fortune. Brazil: Wearing white clothing and offering gifts to the sea goddess for peace and prosperity. The Essence of New Year Celebrations While customs may vary, the essence of New Years Day remains universal: a celebration of new beginnings and shared hope for a brighter future. Its a day to cherish memories, create resolutions, and embrace the endless possibilities of the coming year. As we enter 2025, let us celebrate the spirit of renewal and unity, making this year memorable and meaningful for everyone. Zee News wishes you and your family a Happy New Year! (Also Read: Happy New Year 2025: Heartfelt Wishes, Inspiring Messages, Quotes, And Stunning Images To Share With Your Family And Friends) Manipur has witnessed a tumultuous year with violence rocking the state amid the Kuki vs Meiti row. With 2024 coming to an end, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday apologised for the violence and hoped for a restoring normalcy in 2025. He said that the state's progress in the past three months has been positive. "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what is happening till today, since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I really feel regret. I would like to apologise," said CM Singh. He further hoped for return of normalcy in the coming months. "After seeing the last 3-4 months' progress towards peace, I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state. I want to appeal to all the communities of the state that whatever happened has happened. We now have to forget past mistakes and have to start a new life. A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur, we should all live together," said CM Biren Singh. Sharing the details of the violence, CM Singh said that around 200 people have died, around 12,247 FIRs were registered and 625 accused have been arrested so far. "Around 5,600 arms and weapons including explosives and around 35,000 ammunitions were recovered. Good progress is there in tackling the issues. The central government has provided enough security personnel and enough funds to help the displaced families and enough funds to construct new houses for the displaced persons," said Singh. Fresh Recovery Of Arms Meanwhile, the security forces have recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition during a search operation in Imphal West district of Manipur, police said on Tuesday. The seized items include pistols, guns, rifles, a carbine and hand grenades, the officials said. Manipur Violence Background Once celebrated for its cultural harmony, Manipur now grapples with escalating divisions, leaving thousands displaced and communities trapped in perpetual fear. In 2024, the rift between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki tribes in the hills widened further, sparking human casualties, widespread violence, mob assaults, and even drone strikes on civilian areas. Peace remains elusive as tensions show no signs of abating. The year started on a violent note when four villagers were gunned down by cadres of the banned Peoples' Liberation Army in Thoubal district on January 1. The incident, linked to disputes over money collected through illegal drug trade, forced the state government to impose prohibitory orders in all five valley districts. The Lok Sabha elections were held in April against the backdrop of intense ethnic tension between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. For the first time, the ethnic violence, previously confined to Imphal valley and surrounding districts of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi and Moreh border town in Tengnoupal district, took a new turn when a man was found dead in Jiribam district bordering Assam in June. The incident triggered a fresh wave of ethnic violence, widespread arson, gunfights, and the torching of houses between members of the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. More than 1,000 people were internally displaced following a spate of gun attacks by armed groups of respective communities in the previously peaceful district, inhabited by multiple communities. New Delhi: The Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party came out heavily against the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi by putting up posters outside the BJP Delhi office targeting the 10-year rule of AAP. In their posters, the BJP called the AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and other senior leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendra Jain as "Bhrashtaachaar Ke Tees Maar Khaan" (Master of Corruption). The BJP in their poster accused Kejriwal of making huge amounts of money through the alleged liquor scam, by allegedly increasing the margin of liquor contractors from 5 per cent to 125 per cent. The BJP also slammed Manish Sisodia, stating that he being the Education Minister, went to jail in the 'liquor scam' while the education minister. BJP also accused him of implementing the liquor policy by holding secret meetings with industrialists. BJP accused Jain of 'corruption' in an alleged money laundering case and making money through "Hawala" channels. The BJP further slammed the 'Delhi Model' of Aam Aadmi Party, accusing the ministers of corruption, and stated that AAP has more ministers in jail compared to any other state government in the country. They also accused AAP of being the 'Tanker Mafia,' stating that the water supply in Delhi is the most expensive in India. The BJP also mentioned the landfill in Ghazipur, claiming that it has become the country's biggest landfill. The politics in the national capital has heated up ahead of the Delhi Assembly Elections due in February next year, with BJP, AAP and Congress, all coming out heavily against each other. After winning a historic 67 out of 70 seats in 2015, AAP again won 62 seats in 2020. BJP took its tally to eight from three, while Congress failed to open its account for second consecutive time. Earlier on Monday, after meeting with Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena over Anganwadi and Asha workers, Bharatiya Janata Party MP Bansuri Swaraj slammed the Delhi government and called it "shameful" that the Anganwadi workers have not been paid for seven months and that the stipend of the Asha workers has not been increased. "It is very shameful that the AAP government of Delhi has not given salaries to the Anganwadi workers for the last seven months. Asha workers are working on a salary of Rs 3,000, and their stipend has not been increased. Their stipend must be increased after every three years. The law mandates it. This AAP government is not paying attention to what they have been saying. I met with Delhi LG regarding this, and I am happy that he has assured me that he will give instructions to Delhi CM regarding this issue..." said the BJP MP. Meanwhile, the Delhi Lieutenant Governor advised the AAP government to increase the stipend paid to ASHA workers in Delhi from the existing Rs 3,000 per month to Rs 9,000, noting that their last stipend increase was in 2018, even though revisions were supposed to occur every three years, according to a press release from the LG's office. He has also requested the immediate release of salaries for Anganwadi supervisors, the release added. Yemen President Rashad al-Alimi has approved the death sentence for Indian nurse Nimisha Priya. She has been in prison since 2017 for the murder of a Yemeni national. The execution is set to take place in a month, media reports say. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Monday that India is aware of the sentencing. "We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Priya is exploring relevant options," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. The MEA further expressed its complete willingness towards extending all possible help to explore relevant options in the case. "The government is extending all possible help in the matter," Jaiswal said replying to a media query. The Yemeni Presidents decision has shocked the family of 36-year-old Nimisha Priya. They have been working to save her from the death penalty. Her mother, Prema Kumari, 57, traveled to Sana'a, Yemens capital, earlier this year. She has been reportedly staying there, trying to secure a waiver for the death sentence and negotiate blood money with the victims family. Nimisha Priyas Murder Trial In Yemen Nimisha Priya, a trained nurse from Palakkad, worked in private hospitals in Yemen for several years. In 2017, Priya was convicted of killing Talal Abdo Mahdi, a Yemeni national. She had attempted to retrieve her passport, which Mahdi had seized. Priya allegedly injected him with a sedative, intending to incapacitate him temporarily. However, the dose proved fatal, leading to his death from an overdose. Priya was sentenced to death by a Yemeni court in 2018. Her appeal to the Yemeni Supreme Court in 2023 was rejected. Now, with the presidents approval of her death sentence, her fate depends on whether she can secure forgiveness from the victims family and tribal leaders. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and under tight security, Gulmarg has transformed into a winter wonderland, attracting thousands of tourists eager to celebrate the New Year. This iconic ski resort, blanketed in a pristine sheet of snow, has become a paradise for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the joys of the holiday season. Tourists can be seen dancing, singing, and savoring every moment amidst the cold, snowy valleys. The festive atmosphere is palpable, as visitors revel in the breathtaking beauty of Gulmargs winter charm. Manoj Shrivastav, a tourist from Delhi, shared his excitement, We have visited Himachal twice before, but we always heard about Kashmirs beauty. Now, after experiencing it firsthand, I can confidently say its heaven on earth. Despite the ongoing national mourning, a significant number of tourists have made their way to Kashmir for New Year celebrations. Heavy snowfall in Gulmarg a few days ago, coupled with the IMDs forecast of more snow in the first week of January, has drawn visitors in droves. Tourists are brimming with excitement, hoping that the new year will be as beautiful as the picturesque surroundings they now enjoy. Rajiv Tripathi, visiting from Maharashtra, remarked, There couldnt be a better start to the New Year than this. The fresh air is priceless, and the views are simply breathtaking. Officials report a surge in tourist arrivals across Kashmir. Gulmarg boasts 100% bookings, while Srinagar and Pahalgam have achieved 60% occupancy for New Year. The IMDs forecast of two consecutive western disturbances, bringing more snowfall to Kashmir, has further fueled interest among travelers nationwide. To ensure safety during the celebrations, stringent security measures have been implemented, particularly in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Srinagars Lal Chowk, and along the banks of Dal Lake, where large gatherings are expected. An official stated, The police have made strict surveillance arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents. Plainclothes officers are deployed at crowded locations, and CCTV monitoring is in place across key areas. Checkpoints have also been established on all major roads and streets. The overwhelming turnout of tourists at the start of the year suggests a promising trend for 2025. Kashmir continues to break records, with 2024 marking an unprecedented milestone30 lakh tourist arrivals, the highest in the regions history. Gulmarg, in particular, has reaffirmed its status as a premier winter destination, enchanting visitors with its snow-clad landscapes and vibrant celebrations. JAIPUR: Protests against the Rajasthan government's decision to abolish nine newly-created districts continued for a third day on Tuesday, with protesters in one district launching a hunger strike while those in another announcing an indefinite shutdown. The state government on December 28 decided to abolish nine of the 17 districts created by the previous Congress dispensation, saying they were neither practical nor in public interest. Three new divisions -- Pali, Banswara and Sikar -- were also dissolved in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. The state will now have seven divisions and 41 districts. Protesting against the decision, some people in Neem Ka Thana district have started a hunger strike. In Anupgarh, an indefinite shutdown has been announced against the government's move. Agitators under the Jila Bachao Samiti's banner held a sit-in and burned tires outside the Neem Ka Thana collector's office, demanding reinstatement of its district status. Local leaders, including a zila parishad chairman and a panchayat samiti president, have resigned in solidarity with the protesters. Samiti convenor Praveen Jakhar said, "Since 1952, people of this region have been demanding district status. The BJP government has done dirty politics. People will continue the hunger strike until their demand is met." In Anupgarh, local businesses and markets have been shut in protest, with even petrol pumps operating for limited hours. Farmers and traders have suspended all activities. Save Anupgarh District Sangarsh Committee leader Suresh Bishnoi said, "We are united as it is a fight for our future. We will continue to protest until the government reinstates district status." Sukhram Bishnoi, a former minister in the Congress government, led the protests in Sanchore and accused local MLA Jeevaram Chaudhary of not raising the issue. Addressing a gathering, he emphasised the long-term importance of district status and urged people to prepare for a long struggle. Highlighting geographical disparities, Bishnoi said if Deeg -- located only 35 kilometres from Bharatpur -- could retain its district status, so should Sanchore, situated 180 kilometres from Jalore. "If we don't act now, future generations will see us as careless. But if we succeed, they will remember us as protectors of their rights," he said. A memorandum was submitted to additional district magistrate Pramod Kumar Bishnoi. Protests were also seen in Pali against the revocation of its division status. Led by Magharaj Soni of the Pali Sambhag Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, advocates and residents gathered outside the Pali court and held a protest. "The previous government's decision gave us hope that Pali would grow into a major hub with new opportunities. Offices for top officials were already set up. Revoking our division status has crushed that progress. We will fight until justice is served," Soni said. Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot has called the decision to abolish the nine districts "unfortunate". Madhya Pradesh is a smaller state compared to Rajasthan but has 53 districts while Rajasthan only has 41, he has said. The nine Rajasthan districts abolished are Anupgarh, Dudu, Gangapur City, Jaipur Rural, Jodhpur Rural, Kekri, Neem Ka Thana, Sanchore and Shahpura. BEIJING, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- With the latest relaxation and extension of its immigration policies, China is expected to become a popular destination for foreign tourists this upcoming New Year holiday. The number of inbound and outbound passengers will reach 2.05 million per day during the New Year holiday in China, up 18.8 percent year on year, as the National Immigration Administration has forecast. Peak hours are expected to occur mainly on the evening of Dec. 31, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025. During the holiday, four major airports in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu are expected to handle nearly 200,000 international passengers per day. Earlier this month, China announced a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the initial 72 hours and subsequent 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. Under the updated policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries can enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region. These travelers may enter through any of the 60 ports across 24 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities and stay within the designated areas for up to 240 hours. Besides, China has implemented a complete mutual visa exemption for 26 countries and issued a unilateral visa-free policy for 38 countries. "This is my second visit to China. In the past, I had to go through visa and other formalities before I could come here. With this new policy, it is becoming more and more convenient to come to China," said Beschetnov Stanislav from Russia. Upon landing at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport, he planned to use the visa-free transit policy to take his family to the Bund, Nanjing Road, and other scenic spots in the city. According to the statistics of Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection, from Dec. 17 to 24, the station issued 240-hour temporary entry permits to nearly 1,000 foreigners. The top five countries are Russia, the United States, Britain, Sweden and Canada. "We are on a five-day vacation in Shanghai this time. It is more convenient to come to China now, taking just over an hour to fly here, without complicated procedures or costs of a visa application," said Lim Seung-hwan from the Republic of Korea (ROK). Since China extended its visa-free policy to ROK and Japan last month, 11,000 passenger flights between Shanghai and the two countries and 363,000 ROK and Japanese tourists have been logged at Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection. The passenger number increased by more than 20 percent compared with the same period from September to October. In the meantime, the southern Chinese island province of Hainan has always enjoyed the best visa-free entry policy in China. Since the beginning of this year, more than 350,000 foreign tourists have entered Hainan visa-free, a year-on-year increase of more than three times, accounting for 85 percent of the foreign tourists visiting the tropical island. Visa-free entry has become the main way for foreigners to enter Hainan. The Mohan railway port in southwest China's Yunnan Province, an important gateway on the China-Laos Railway that entered operation in April of 2023, has welcomed over 33,000 foreign tourists this year, a year-on-year increase of 99.5 percent, including over 9,500 visa-free entries, an increase of ten times from last year. China recorded nearly 29.22 million inbound foreign visits between January and November 2024, up 86.2 percent year on year. Of these, 17.45 million entered the country visa-free, marking a significant 123.3 percent year-on-year growth. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member of parliament (MP), Pratap Chandra Sarangi has once again criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, describing his behaviour as a "bouncer" rather than fitting for his position as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a position once held by esteemed personalities like Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Sarangi, who was injured and had to be admitted to a hospital following a scuffle in Parliament, said that he is comparatively better now and was discharged from the hospital on December 28 Recalling the Parliament scuffle incident of December 19, Sarangi said, "It happened when we (BJP MPs) were standing near an entry gate, peacefully protesting against the insult of DDrAmbedkar, holding placards." "Suddenly, Rahul Gandhi came along with some of his party colleagues and started pushing people to move ahead. He was behaving like a bouncer, not like the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, a post once occupied by great personalities like Vajpayee ji," Sarangi added, PTI reported. Sarangi claimed that there was enough space beside the gate for Gandhi to pass without causing any disruption. "Gandhi pushed MP Mukesh Rajput, who was standing in front of him. Rajput ji fell onto me, and my head possibly struck the corner of a stone-like object, leading to the injury," he said. BJP MP further added that Rahul Gandhi came near me after someone informed him of the incident but he quickly left without showing any genuine concern. SpaDeX: The 25-hour countdown for Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) exciting mission called the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) ended with Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh witnessing a spectacular sight as the PSLV rocket took off at 10 PM on Monday. The rocket slowly lifted off from the First Launch Pad colouring the night sky bright with the orange flames. ISRO is set to test India's ability to dock and undock two small satellites in space through the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). The experiment is expected to take place on January 7. But what exactly is space docking, and why is it a big deal for India? What Is Space Docking? Docking is a challenging process involving the connection of two spacecraft while they orbit the Earth. Mastering this technology would place India among an elite group of nationsjoining the United States, Russia, and Chinaas the fourth country capable of space docking. A cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for in-space docking would mark a significant achievement in Indias space program. Dr. S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, explained the process in an exclusive interview with NDTV. He said, "When you have multiple objects in space that need to be brought together for a specific purpose, a mechanism called docking is required." He further added, "Docking is the process by which two space objects come together and connect." Why ISROs Space Docking Is A Big Deal The SpaDeX mission is a significant milestone for Indias space program. Its primary goal is to demonstrate the transfer of electric power between two docked satellites. This capability is essential for future space projects, such as robotic missions and the construction of Indias planned space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS). Docking technology will play a vital role in simplifying many future missions. For instance, building a space station requires connecting different components in orbit. SpaDeX will provide the expertise needed to achieve this. Similarly, landing spacecraft on the Moon, collecting samples, and conducting other complex tasks will become easier with this technology. Docking technology will also be used when multiple rockets need to work together for the same mission goals. Long-term missions to Mars or beyond will demand spacecraft that can be assembled and refueled in space. SpaDeX will equip India with the advanced tools needed for such ambitious projects. It will also enhance the safety of future missions by improving sensors, software, and docking methods. Mastering docking will place India alongside the United States, Russia, and Chinacountries that already possess this advanced technology. This achievement will not only strengthen Indias position in global space exploration but also highlight its growing capabilities on the international stage. SpaDeXs Docking ISRO announced that two spacecraft, Spacecraft A (SDX01) and Spacecraft B (SDX02), aboard the PSLV rocket will be placed in an orbit 5 km apart. Over the next 10 to 14 days after lift-off, ISRO scientists will work to bring them closer, aiming for a distance of just 3 meters before attempting to merge them at an altitude of about 470 km above Earth. Spacecraft A is equipped with a High Resolution Camera, while Spacecraft B carries a Miniature Multispectral Payload and a Radiation Monitor Payload. These instruments will provide high-resolution images, monitor natural resources, and conduct vegetation studies, among other tasks. The technology developed for this mission is called the Bharatiya Docking System. It includes a docking mechanism, four sensors for rendezvous and docking, power transfer technology, a new autonomous strategy for docking, and an inter-satellite communication link (ISL) that allows the spacecraft to communicate with each other. The system also has built-in intelligence to monitor the status of the other spacecraft. 2024 is coming to an end with the BJP pushing for 'One Nation-One Election'. Now, the eyes will be on the NDA government to see whether it brings the Uniform Civil Code next year. Union law minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has made the government's stand clear on the issue citing the example of Uttarakhand, the first state to pass the UCC Act after Goa. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced to implement of the UCC in the state in 2025. "The UCC was a part of BJP's manifesto. We incorporate things in the manifesto only when we think it is possible. The states also worked on UCC. It was already implemented in Uttarakhand and the Goa already has it. The matter is pending with the Law Commission of India while the Prime Minister has also raised the issue from the ramparts of the Red Fort," said Meghwal, hinting that the government will go ahead with the move. Reacting to the 'One Nation, One Election', Meghwal said that it is very important and a JPC was formed for deliberate on the issue. "The first meeting of the JPC is going to be held on January 8....We have taken a lot of steps in this regard. It is practical and it will not harm the federal structure. It will not take away the rights of the voters or the states," said Meghwal, referring to the apprehensions raised by the Opposition. The Modi government minister further said that the process will be carried out according the Article 368 of the Constitution. "The Opposition also wants that the Lok Sabha and the state elections are held together..." Meghwal claimed. The One Nation-One Election and Uniform Civil Code are two major ambitious plans of the NDA government to bring electoral and societal reforms to the country. The country is also likely to go under delimitation to get new Lok Sabha constituencies as per the current population. The Lok Sabha seats are likely to almost double after the delimitation. New Delhi: The civil aviation ministry on Monday said data of passengers who use Digi Yatra are not shared with the Indian tax authorities. Earlier in the day, the I-T Department refuted reports that Digi Yatra data will be used to crack down on tax evaders. Based on Facial Recognition Technology (FRT), Digi Yatra provides for contactless, seamless movement of passengers at various check points at airports. The data shared by a passenger for Digi Yatra is stored in an encrypted format. To avail the service, a passenger has to register his or her details on the Digi Yatra app using Aadhaar-based validation and a self-image capture. In the next step, the boarding pass has to be scanned and the credentials are shared with the airport. In a post on X, the ministry said there is no sharing of Digi Yatra passengers' data with Indian tax authorities. "The Digi Yatra app follows the Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) model, where Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and travel credentials are stored exclusively on the user's device, not on any central repository. Furthermore, if a user uninstalls the Digi Yatra app, the data is deleted entirely," the ministry said in a post on X. The Ministry of Civil Aviation hereby clarifies that the recent media report concerning Digi Yatra is based on unfounded and inaccurate claims. There is no sharing of Digi Yatra passengers data with Indian tax authorities. The Digi Yatra app follows the Self-Sovereign Identity December 30, 2024 Further, the ministry said airport systems automatically purge passenger data within 24 hours of the flight's departure. The I-T Department, in a post on X, refuted reports which stated that Digi Yatra data will be used to crack down on tax evaders. "In this connection, it is clarified that as on date there is no such move by the @IncomeTaxIndia department," it said. Digi Yatra is managed by the Digi Yatra Foundation. Its shareholders are Airport Authority of India (AAI), Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (HIAL) and Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL). Mumbai: Bollywoods bold and fearless actress turned politician Kangana Ranaut brought her charm to the Bigg Boss 18 house, hosted by Salman Khan, as part of her promotions for her upcoming political drama, Emergency. Scheduled for release on January 17, the film has already piqued interest, and Kanganas engaging antics during her visit added to the buzz. Kangana participated in a specially designed task inside the Bigg Boss house. Post her visit, when asked by the paparazzi about her experience, she humorously said, Bade naatak kiye inn logon ne. Bade utpaat machaaye. (They created a big drama. They caused a lot of chaos.) She added with a playful grin, Maine andar jaa kar dictatorship dikhaayi hai. (I went inside and showed dictatorship.) The statement resonated with her portrayal of Indira Gandhi in Emergency, where she embodies the former Prime Ministers authoritative leadership during the controversial Emergency period in India. True to her reputation as a style icon, Kangana arrived at the show in a glamorous golden co-ord set, exuding elegance and sophistication. Later, she switched to a bold, chequered outfita striking combination of a black-and-white shirt, paired with a red-and-black jacket and skirtleaving fans mesmerized by her sartorial choices. Kanganas Emergency has been generating significant anticipation, thanks to its powerful trailer and Kanganas portrayal of one of Indias most controversial political figures. Her witty and authoritative demeanour during her Bigg Boss appearance tied seamlessly with the essence of her character in the film, further increasing curiosity among fans. Modern watches transcend mere traditional features by including innovative features such as water resistance, fitness tracking, and smart connectivity, all within the parameters of craftsmanship and luxury. Find a watch for every need: professional timepiece, sporty companion, or casual everyday watch. These timeless creations not only bring enhancement to your look but also strength and functionality to your confidence. 1. Daniel Wellington Classic Cambridge 40mm Watch Image source: Zalora.com.my Order Now The Daniel Wellington Classic Cambridge 40mm Watch is a synonym for class and elegance for the modern man who prefers timelessness in style. The watch exudes the essence of classic designs blended with modern functionality, making it a perfect timepiece for any occasion, crafted from quality stainless steel and being lightweight but very durable. Key Features: Material: High-grade stainless steel case and striped NATO signature for comfort and durability. Buckle: Interchangeable NATO strap that gives endless style options. Care instructions: Wipe with soft cloth, keep away from direct water to make long-lasting. Non-Water Resistant: Not water-resistant so it should not be used during any sort of water activity. 2. G-SHOCK Male Analog Watch GA-110CD-1A3DR Image source: Zalora.com.my Order Now G-SHOCK GA-110CD-1A3DR Watch is a reliable and versatile timepiece designed for those who need something that will deliver reliability and performance. It comes in a bold black-and-green color scheme, paired with an analog and digital display for maximum functionality. Made from durable resin, it is shock and magnetic resistant, water-resistant up to 2ATM, and packed with features such as world time, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, and LED light. Key Features: Material: Hard resin case and strap. Design: Colourblock round analogue-digital display in black and green. Features: Stop-watch, countdown timer, alarm, world time, light emitting diode, calendar. Battery Life: Approximated 2-year battery life Warranty: International 1-year warranty on manufacturing defect Water resistance: Only resistant to water pressure of up to 2ATM. Thus it can't be used in swimming or diving 3. Guess Men's Trend GW0500G2 Watch Image source: Zalora.com.my Order Now The Guess Men's Trend GW0500G2 Watch is a striking, masculine designer watch. Being a model for men who require bold style and contemporary aesthetics, the watch has a perfectly balanced approach to form and function in its design. It delivers triple-hand movement and holds a stainless steel case. Key features: Material: Premium silicone strap and stainless steel case Design: Gold tone rectangular analogue with modern cut-out dial. Movement: Triple-hand functionality for accurate time display. Closure: Secure buckle closure for comfort and convenience. Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty against defects. Functions: No date function, thereby limiting other features. 4. Fossil Bronson Black Stainless Steel Watch ME3256 Image source: Zalora.com.my Order Now This Fossil Bronson Black Stainless Steel Watch is a robust accessory for men who wish for a powerful, industrial look. It has a case of 48mm, automatic movement, so as functional as it is beautiful. The black stainless steel construction gives it a modern sleek touch, while the two-tone dial provides an air of sophistication. Key Features: Material: Stainless steel case and strap for premium durability. Movement: Automatic for precision and elegance. Case: 48mm Two-tone striking dial. Resistance to water: 5 ATM. This watch can wear daily, with slight water exposures. Closure: Single foldover pusher clasp. Note: 2-year local manufacturer warranty with a heavier design, though not recommended for light models. In conclusion, the ideal watch is one that reflects an ideal balance of fashion, functionality, and strength. Each of these companies provides something different: there is Daniel Wellington for classical elegance, G-SHOCK for rugged versatility, Guess for contemporary flair, and Fossil for bold sophistication. A quality watch purchase will not only prove precision and reliability but also enhance your own style, making it a long-time addition to your collection. Disclaimer: The above mentioned article is a sponsored feature. This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever. Dhaka: Bangladeshs interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has announced that it has decided to prepare a proclamation of July uprising, a day after it distanced itself from a proposed declaration with an identical title by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to an upheaval four months ago. We hope within few days the proclamation will be prepared with the participation and consensus of all and presented before the nation, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, told reporters in a midnight press conference. Addressing reporters in front of Yunus official Jamuna residence, Alam said the declaration would be based on the views of all participating students, political parties, and stakeholders, including the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas Awami League regime on August 5. Alam said the government took the initiative to prepare the proposed charter to consolidate the people's unity, anti-fascist spirit and desire for state reform developed through the July uprising". The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement along with the National Citizens Committee, another grouping led by the students, two days ago in a surprise development said it would announce the proclamation of the July uprising on Tuesday afternoon at Dhakas Central Shaheed Minar. But soon after the governments midnight announcement, the students platform hurriedly called an emergency meeting and nearly two hours later told newsmen that instead of the proclamation they would rather stage a march for unity at the same venue and time. "The Mujibist '72 constitution will be buried (in the proclamation) in the very place where the one-point declaration was made during the July uprising, the platforms convener Hasnat Abdullah told a press conference on December 29. Abdullah at that time said that Indian aggression was initiated through the principles of the 1972 constitution (and) the proclamation will make it clear how the Mujibist constitution destroyed the aspirations of the people and exactly how we want to replace it. The platform leader said the proclamation was expected to declare irrelevant the deposed premiers Nazi Awami League in Bangladesh as well. Anti-Discrimination Students Movement leader and chief organiser of the National Citizens' Committee Sarjis Alam told the same press conference that we believe the way our revolution was embraced by all anti-fascists; this proclamation will also contain everyone's hopes and aspirations. The 1972 constitution was framed a year after the emergence of independent Bangladesh by representatives elected in the 1970 elections in line with their mandate as constitute assembly members with Awami League under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gaining an absolute majority. The party won 160 of the 162 general seats and all seven women's seats in then-East Pakistan. However, Pakistans then-military junta under General Yahya Khan eventually launched a sudden army crackdown leading to the Liberation War. The interim government visibly distanced itself from the proclamation with Yunus press secretary saying the government has nothing to do with it and wants see it (proclamation) as private initiative. Awami League has not been seen in the public sphere since the August 5 ouster of the regime as many of its leaders were arrested or are on the run at home and abroad, limiting their activities on social media platforms occasionally. But some leaders of ex-premier Khaleda Zias BNP sharply reacted to the proposal with its highest policy-making standing committee member Mirza Abbas saying the constitution was written in 1972 at the cost of the blood of 3 million martyrs. As your seniors, we feel disappointed when you (Student Movement leaders) say the constitution should be buried. If there is anything bad in the constitution, it can be amended, he told reporters. Abbas said, When you (student leaders) say things like this, it sounds fascist as fascists used to say, we will bury them, kill them, and cut them off". The students platform and different political groups including BNP often dub the ousted regime as fascist. On Sunday, a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed during its landing at Muan International Airport. Tragically, 179 people lost their lives in the incident, but two crew members managed to survive, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation. Authorities have launched thorough investigations to determine the cause of the crash and have pledged to inspect all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating in the country. The Crash Incident The Jeju Air Flight 7C 2216, was en route from Bangkok to Muan, South Korea, with 181 people on board, including passengers and six crew members. After an unsuccessful initial attempt at landing, the aircraft received a bird strike warning, which was followed by a distress signal from the pilot. Despite the attempt to land, the plane's front landing gear malfunctioned, causing the aircraft to overshoot the runway, collide with a concrete wall, and explode into flames. Witnesses to the crash and videos circulating from the scene suggest that the plane was experiencing engine issues. However, experts believe that the malfunctioning landing gear may have been the primary cause of the crash. The Miraculous Escape Amidst the chaos, two survivors, a man and a woman, defied the odds and survived the horrific crash. Both were part of the crew on board the flight. One of the survivors, a flight attendant named Koo, is a 25-year-old woman who was quickly treated in a nearby hospital. According to hospital staff, she is recovering and was not in critical condition. Koo, along with the other survivor, regained consciousness after the crash but had no clear recollection of events following a loud explosion during the landing. Out of the 181 people aboard, 179 were confirmed dead, with the majority being South Korean nationals, though two Thai nationals were also among the passengers. South Korean authorities have been working relentlessly to identify the victims, having identified 146 bodies so far. The authorities are continuing to collect DNA and fingerprint samples from the remaining victims. Investigations and Responses South Korean authorities, along with international teams, are investigating the cause of the crash. The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Boeing experts have arrived at the crash site in Muan to assist in the inquiry. Investigators have retrieved the two black boxes from the wreckage, which will provide vital clues about the sequence of events leading up to the crash. In response to the disaster, South Korea's transport ministry has vowed to conduct thorough inspections of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft currently operated by South Korean airlines. The investigation aims to uncover any potential mechanical issues or safety concerns related to the aircraft's design or maintenance procedures. Jimmy Sengenberger is an investigative journalist, public speaker, and longtime local talk-radio host. Reach Jimmy online at Jimmysengenberger.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @SengCenter. As New Year's Day approaches, various places in Anhui are decked out in festive attire, with people engaging in a wide array of activities to welcome the new year. In Xuancheng and Huangshan, a multitude of light decorations illuminate the streets and alleys at night, filling the air with a strong sense of the upcoming New Year. Activities such as painting long scrolls and fitness runs allow people across Anhui to enjoy themselves and welcome the new year in diverse ways. Cities and villages in Hefei, Huaibei, Huainan, Anqing, Chuzhou, and other places host a variety of cultural performances, celebrating the New Year with songs and dances. In Fuyang, the bustling market activities are lively and exciting, with cheerful drums and wonderful performances attracting people from all around. In the Jiuhua Mountain Scenic Area, cultural and tourism activities centered around the holiday attract numerous visitors to joyfully welcome the New Year. In Bozhou, folk performance activities are held with great enthusiasm. Source: ANHUI NEWS For 100 years since 1922, the AdAmAn Club has been trusted for New Years Eve fireworks atop Pikes Peak. (ECNS) -- Recently, American Robin Rowe, chairman of the UN ITU Medical Metaverse Task Group and executive director of Fountain Abode in the U.S., praised China's advancements in high-speed rail during an exclusive interview with China News Network. He said that the U.S. now lacks true high-speed rail by global standards, lagging behind China, where major cities are interconnected by high-speed railway networks. Rowe highlighted that despite challenging circumstances, the U.S. and China have opportunities to exchange knowledge, share information, and leverage their unique strengths to achieve better outcomes. (Gong Weiwei) 2024 was a tumultuous year on the political front, and 2025 promises to be just as eventful on the policy front. The 2024 election resulted in President-elect Donald Trump winning a second term while Republicans simultaneously won control of the U.S. Senate and held their majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. With a governing trifecta in hand next year, Republicans are poised to put their stamp on many significant issues, several of which have direct implications for dairy farmers. Picking up where this year left off, a new farm bill remains on the congressional to-do list. Lawmakers enacted a one-year extension before adjourning for the year, paving the way for House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson of Pennsylvania and incoming Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman of Arkansas to lead their respective panels in drafting long-term farm policy legislation next year. This years House and Senate farm bill frameworks included numerous dairy priorities, such as requiring USDA to conduct mandatory manufacturing cost surveys every two years, prioritizing common food name protection in trade discussions, and allowing schools to serve nutrient-dense whole milk. This years extension ensures that the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program continues without disruption as the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) advocates for a new five-year farm bill next year that meets dairys needs. Republicans will also turn their attention to extending the expiring provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, one of President-elect Trumps signature first-term accomplishments. NMPF will urge Congress to continue several pieces of the 2017 law, including the Section 199A domestic manufacturing tax deduction that allows agricultural cooperatives to pass the proceeds directly back to their farmer-owners. Congress is likely to complete this process using the tool known as budget reconciliation, which allows for the consideration of certain tax and spending legislation not subject to the Senates 60-vote filibuster requirement. Finally, Congress will need to address an overall government funding deadline in early 2025. This years draft House and Senate agriculture funding bills included several NMPF-backed provisions, including House language to reverse the reduction in the maximum monthly milk allotment in USDAs final foods package rule for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and Senate language mirroring the Innovative FEED Act to allow the Food and Drug Administration to review animal feed additives in a more efficient manner. While a short-term funding extension will require the new Congress to complete the full-year bills, the bills drafted this year will likely serve as the starting point for final negotiations next year. Beyond these priorities, Congress and the incoming Trump Administration are likely to address major issues ranging from environmental policy to labor to trade. At each step of the way, NMPF will advocate for dairy farmers and the cooperatives they own as they seek to provide the U.S. and the world with wholesome, nutritious, and sustainably-produced milk and dairy products. Doing more with less is the motto farmers this day in age seem to abide by as they aim to maximize production while also reducing input costs. One way to do this is by using precision spraying technology, which can include weed mapping using drones. In an Iowa State Integrated Crop Management blog, extension specialist Doug Houser explained the benefits of using this precision spraying technology. Traditional spraying methods include broadcast applications of herbicide for both pre- and postemergence. As chemical costs continue to climb, farmers are looking for alternative, cheaper routes to help the farms bottom line. Using drone mapping techniques, researchers at Iowa State University were able to map fields for weeds prior to application to identify problem areas. From this, they were able to spray certain areas of the fields that needed spraying the most, reducing the amount of chemical used compared to traditional spraying methods. Leveraging precision spray technology can provide chemical savings for both postemergence applications where the reduction in cost and chemical usage will depend on the initial weed pressure, but it is not uncommon to see reductions of 50% or higher, Houser said. Ground and aerial application options are available in the precision spraying space, most of which use multistep approaches to achieve results. Spray drones perform zone spraying and spray a minimum zone size of 0.1 acre, generally in conservation areas, while ground sprayers can spray much smaller areas, reducing the minimum spray area. Some offerings use low-resolution drone or satellite imagery to generate weed pressure maps based on large weeds, which can be used to identify major issues, direct scouting, or hand-draw zones for late season rescue application of weed escape patches, the extension specialist noted. Some technologies generate grids, allowing the user to mark cells that contain weeds and export a grid prescription. If choosing to incorporate precision spraying practices on your farm, it is important to understand your weed prevention needs to identify which spraying route to take. By using precision spraying, operators can optimize tank mixes and identify the correct volume for the specific weed pressure the farmer may be experiencing. One can expect greater cost savings with lower weed pressure, and smaller savings with higher weed pressure, Houser said. To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2024 December 26, 2024 GUEST OPINION: Guest blogging or guest posting remains relevant in link-building tactics, even though multiple Google guidelines have been issued for the same purpose. It helps you to improve your SEO game by driving organic traffic to your website, building valuable relationships, and increasing website authority. The connection between guest blogging and link-building has been great so far, and the future will also welcome these tactics if they are done properly to improve your search engine visibility and credibility, spreading your brand awareness among potential audiences. So, if you want to use guest blogging through link building services, this blog post is for you as it covers the strategy to level up your guest blogging game. So, stay tuned! How Link-Building Services Help You in Guest Blogging Link-building services have all the features to assist you in performing guest blogging. They consider the following strategies to start with your guest blogging game: Research Relevant Blogs in Your Niche Firstly, they go deep in finding the relevant blogs in your niche so that the audience will relate to the content and ensure that they will come back to gain industry-specific insights. By doing this, link-building services can make sure that the people you target are interested in your industry and raise the likelihood that they will return relevant traffic to your website. Giving Priority to High Domain Authority (DA) Sites These companies, dedicated to link-building, prioritize blogs with a high domain authority to increase your websites search engine rankings. Google prefers sites that are linked by higher domain authority when it comes to ranking the websites. Look For Blogs With High Engagement Rate By analyzing blogs that have high levels of shares, comments, and likes, these services make sure that youll get the blog with active engagement for guest posting. Assess Content Quality These specific services assess the blogs content quality, whether its publishing high-quality and valuable content regularly or not. A blog that provides high-quality content adds even more credibility to your brand and builds trust among your targeted audience. Things to Avoid When Heading Towards Guest Blogging You may get overwhelmed by the guest blogging benefits and can make some mistakes while guest posting. Here are some things that you can avoid: Prioritizing quantity over quality Neglecting blog relevance Ignoring SEO best practices Not adhering to submission guidelines Failing to engage with readers Publishing overly promotional content Conclusion Guest blogging is a great way to increase your brand exposure, build links, and showcase your expertise. Link-building services can be beneficial for you in executing this as they have the specific strategies to take your guest blogging game to the next level. However, you need to understand the common pitfalls and avoid them to make guest posting a breeze. With an expert link-building service, you can make all these things possible and allow you to keep your brands position dominant in this competitive market. In today's competitive legal landscape, effective marketing is no longer optional for law firmsit's essential for survival and growth. While traditional marketing methods still hold value, modern law firms must adopt a comprehensive approach that combines both conventional and digital strategies to attract and retain clients. Establish a Strong Online Presence A robust digital presence serves as the cornerstone of modern law firm marketing. Your website acts as your digital storefront, often providing potential clients with their first impression of your firm, says Zach Hoffman of Exults, experts in law firm digital marketing. Professional website design, mobile responsiveness, and search engine optimization are non-negotiable elements. Detailed practice area pages and attorney profiles should be complemented by clear calls-to-action that make it easy for potential clients to initiate contact. Beyond your website, maintaining active profiles on key legal directories such as Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and FindLaw is crucial. These platforms often rank highly in search results and can significantly increase your firm's visibility while providing social proof through ratings and reviews. Content Marketing and Thought Leadership Demonstrating expertise through consistent, high-quality content creation is vital for establishing authority in your practice areas. A well-planned content strategy should include regular blog posts addressing common client questions, recent legal developments, and practical advice relevant to your target audience. Monthly newsletters can highlight firm achievements and legal updates, while quarterly whitepapers or in-depth guides can showcase your deep expertise in specific areas of law. Strategic Social Media Engagement Rather than spreading resources thin across all social media platforms, focus your efforts where your target clients are most active. LinkedIn proves particularly valuable for B2B connections and professional networking, while Facebook can be effective for personal injury or family law practices. Share a balanced mix of content, from case results (within ethical guidelines) to firm culture and community involvement. Industry news commentary and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your practice help humanize your firm while maintaining professional credibility. Local SEO and Community Presence Most law firms serve specific geographic areas, making local SEO crucial for success. An optimized Google Business Profile with accurate information, professional photos, and regular updates helps capture local search traffic. Encouraging satisfied clients to leave reviews and responding professionally to all feedback strengthens your local digital presence. This online effort should be complemented by active participation in community events and local business organizations. Client Relationship Nurturing Marketing extends far beyond client acquisition. A systematic approach to maintaining and strengthening client relationships pays dividends through referrals and repeat business. Regular check-ins during active cases, periodic follow-up communications after case resolution, and thoughtful touches like birthday and holiday greetings help maintain connections. Where ethically permitted, implementing referral reward programs can incentivize satisfied clients to recommend your services. Email Marketing and Communication A strategic email marketing program helps maintain connections with current and former clients. Segmenting your email list based on practice areas or client types ensures communications remain relevant and valuable. Your email content should provide genuine value, such as legal updates affecting specific client groups, firm news, and changes in laws or regulations that might impact your clients. Visual Content and Professional Presentation High-quality visual content helps humanize your firm and build trust with potential clients. Professional photography and videography investments should cover attorney headshots, team photos, office imagery, and event coverage. Video content can include attorney biographies, client testimonials (with proper consent), educational content explaining common legal concepts, and virtual office tours that give potential clients a sense of your firm's environment and culture. Analytics and Performance Tracking Implementing comprehensive analytics tools helps track the effectiveness of your marketing efforts and guides strategic decisions. Monitor website traffic, email engagement, lead sources, and return on investment for paid advertising. This data-driven approach allows for continuous optimization of marketing strategies and better allocation of resources. Traditional Marketing Integration While digital marketing dominates modern strategy, traditional marketing methods still hold value when selected carefully. Speaking engagements at industry events, community sponsorships, and networking through bar association activities all contribute to a well-rounded marketing approach. The key is selecting traditional marketing channels that align with your firm's practice areas and target client base. Client Experience as Marketing Perhaps the most powerful marketing tool is an exceptional client experience. Clear communication, realistic expectation setting, and responsive service create satisfied clients who become natural advocates for your firm. Every interaction, from initial consultation to case resolution, should reflect your firm's commitment to client service excellence. In conclusion, successful law firm marketing requires a balanced, multi-faceted approach that combines digital innovation with traditional relationship-building techniques. All marketing activities must align with your firm's values and comply with jurisdictional ethical rules governing attorney advertising. By implementing these strategies thoughtfully and consistently, law firms can build a strong market presence, attract quality clients, and maintain sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive legal landscape. Happy Tuesday. Ive already picked out my best sweats for a big night on the sofa. A scant few hours from now, less than a half day, 2024 will be in the rear-view mirror. I cant wait. Good riddance. Considering whats transpired so far this year, if I was smart - a mighty big if - Id ensconce myself in bubble wrap and ride out New Years Eve in the basement. Perchance, why? Because my 24 began with a brush with blindness (detached retina) and ended recovering from the installation of a new titanium body part (hip). In between, there was another bout with COVID. Worse - far worse - is the fact that we buried one parent, saw another transition to the loving care of Hospice and moved another out of the house shes lived in for nearly 50 years. Enough already. Still, as much as wed like to avoid it, were contractually obligated to look back at 24 and offer a few highlights of the year that was. Yeah, its a gimmick. But it works. And since I cant remember breakfast most days, asking for a Year in Review is fraught. Some stories are tragic, others outrageous. Hurricane Helene laying siege to western North Carolina and nauseating national elections laying waste to our senses spring to mind. Some involve the machinations of government and the foibles of politicians tasked with running it on various levels. The failed, laughable gubernatorial candidacy of Mark Robinson, until earlier this month at least, topped that list. Porn? A self-proclaimed Black Nazi? Lamenting the repeal of slavery? The Onion couldnt make that up. Locally, that might have been aced out by the pitiful election of a guy named Edward Jones to a seat on the Forsyth County Soil and Water Conservation District. Jones, with a straight face, told a reporter that he was a former rapper, that hed been shot 37 times and that hed been in a coma for eight years. Oh, and that hed decided to run to tell the world about God. Which is swell, but definitely not part of the job description. And that was before Election Day. Afterward, we learned that hes a convicted sex offender who doesnt live in Forsyth County. We have a long history with him at that address, said Sheriff J.D. Hartman of Davie County of the Mocksville address Jones provided to the N.C. Sex Offenders Registry. Holy cow. And yet despite all the low hanging fruit, two of my personal favorite stories of 24 were uplifting and inspirational. In no particular order, they include the administration at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts renaming its dining hall to honor a longtime cafeteria worker named Hector Lopez who had showered kids with kindness and positivity. He was just always the nicest, sweetest guy, said alum Nathan Nicolau. He was always happy and smiling. He always remembered everybodys names. Nicolau started an online petition to rename the dining hall after Lopez died in June. And the administration listened; it was done by August - light speed in the world of higher education. He didnt have to know everybodys name at all, Nicolau said. But he did. He called us his children. Lopez acknowledged that himself in remarks to school officials in 2020. I never had kids, he said. Now I have 400 plus and I love it. And again, its for you guys, its not me. Thats why I put my passion into this. A second story of regular folk going way above and beyond involved two guys who run The B String guitar shop on Trade Street. A customer, said shop owner Michael B Bennett, brought in a ukulele that he wanted to sell on consignment. Ordinarily, Bennett wouldnt take a ukulele. But this one was in great condition and its owner was a good customer. Plus it was unique. Gold cursive writing on the back of its case that read Tom Chalfant Canton, Ohio U.S.S. Alcor Curiosity piqued, Joey Recchio, a part-time employee and full-time musician, started googling and learned a few things about the ship - and Tom Chalfant. The Alcor was a destroyer tender that stopped in Cuba, Brazil and Hawaii on its way to the Pacific in World War II. And Chalfant was a Navy veteran whod been assigned to the ship. He likely bought the instrument along with another sailor and lugged it literally around the world. At wars end, like a lot of GIs, Chalfant was hellbent on getting home as fast as possible. He lost track of the ukulele after returning to the U.S. Nothing surprising about that. But thanks to Recchios dogged curiosity - and the extraordinary reach of social media - the guys at B String found Chalfants family in Massillon, Ohio and made sure they got it back. We thought it was a scam, said Matthew Chalfant, Tom Chalfants son, about the initial phone call. But when I saw his handwriting (on the case) thats when I knew. After 71 years, a ukulele that helped a sailor get through the war was returned. It just seemed like the right thing to do, Bennett said. It made us all feel good. Honoring sacrifice GREENSBORO - The pain and discomfort felt by Chief John Thompson was obvious. And understandable. Thompson and Catherine Johnson, the executive director of Guilford County Family Justice Center, sat Monday before a roomful of reporters to mark the one-year anniversary of the shooting death of Sgt. Philip Dale Nix, who was killed at a Colfax Sheetz Dec. 30, 2023 while attempting to stop a robbery. They wanted to honor Nix and draw attention to his contributions to the community even after his death. Nix led the Greensboro Police Departments Family Victims Unit - it investigates domestic violence, sexual assault and crimes against juveniles - and had spent a lot of time working out of the justice center. And in the intervening year, per colleague Nancy McLaughlin, the center has seen record levels of support for its Camp Hope given in Nix memory. Its been quite powerful and transformative for families in our community, Johnson said. But while honoring Nix legacy, Thompson - and by extension the entire police department - had to contend with the violent death of yet another. Officer Michael Horan was shot to death Dec. 23 during a struggle with an armed man in a Food Lion on Lawndale Drive. We never expected to be back here grieving another officers life as we are trying to navigate Sgt. Nixs death, Thompson said. And yet here we are. Were not sure why anyone would want the job - hours of tedium and paperwork punctuated by moments of unpredictability and mortal danger - were eternally grateful that so many see it as a calling. Yes things go wrong and a few bad people manage to slip into uniform. But for every Derek Chauvin who killed George Floyd in Minnesota, there are tens of thousands like Philip Dale Nix or Michael Horan that we never hear about until or unless tragedy strikes. Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes! How can gratitude guide health care professionals in navigating political uncertainty, misinformation, and the challenges of post-election transitions? Join us as Janet A. Jokela, an infectious disease physician and Treasurer of the American College of Physicians, explores how genuine gratitude fosters resilience, strengthens advocacy, and deepens professional connections. Learn how evidence-based policies and shared values can help us support our patients, communities, and each other during uncertain times. Janet A. Jokela, MD, MPH, ACPs Treasurer 2022-2025, served as the Regional Dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Urbana, and currently serves as Professor and Senior Associate Dean of Engagement at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, IL. She discusses the KevinMD article, The answer is gratitude and it puts you in a good place. Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. DAX Copilot, by Microsoft, is your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. DAX Copilot allows physicians to do more with less and turn their words into a powerful productivity tool. DAX Copilot automates clinical documentationmaking it available in the EHR within minutesand clinical workflows, including referral letters, after-visit summaries, style and formatting customizations, and more. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Discover AI-powered solutions for clinical documentation and workflows. Click here to see a 12-minute DAX Copilot demo. VISIT SPONSOR https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE https://www.kevinmd.com/cme Im partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus Transcript Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today, we welcome back Janet Jokela. Shes an infectious disease physician, and shes the treasurer of the American College of Physicians. Todays KevinMD article is The Answer Is Gratitude, and It Puts You in a Good Place. Janet, welcome back to the show. Janet Jokela: Thank you so much, Kevin. Delighted to see you. Kevin Pho: All right, so tell us what your latest article is about. Janet Jokela: I started thinking about this in the aftermath of the election, and its like, how do we navigate this as physicians committed to our patients and whats in our patients best interest? So what do we do here? There were a number of dizzying cabinet appointments announced, as we know, and the question is, how do we respond to this, and what do we do? I started digging deep on this and thinking more about gratitude as well, because of the holidays and its that time of year, and gratitude is a good thing to think about no matter what time of year it is. I realized that was the way forward: to really focus on real gratitude and on things that matter to mecolleagues, everybodyto figure out how we navigate the current situation. Kevin Pho: For those physicians where the election did not go the way they wanted, from the conversations youve had, how does that affect them professionally? How does it affect them in the exam room, where they needed a solution to move forward? Janet Jokela: I think in general, for people who are disappointed in the electionand of course, as we know, not everybody wasthere was certainly a feeling of being stunned and surprised, and like, how could this have happened, and also anxiety in terms of whats going to happen next. Given that, when faced with patients in the exam room, as you well know, we have to focus on the patient in front of us, on what their needs are, and how best to respond to them. In many ways, I think its critical for us, as much as we can, to put those things asidewhatever our personal reactions wereand focus on whats best for the patient and how we can support that patient and address whatever it is they need. Easier said than done, but I think thats what really needed to happen and what many people have done. Kevin Pho: As you were going through that thought process, tell me about the path that eventually led you to gratitude. Janet Jokela: Thinking about it, and thinking about how gratitude is an important concept, if you will, or an important practice, no matter what were faced with, I realized it was also important here. There was a recent Wall Street Journal article talking about kind of fake gratitude, and thats not what I was getting at. Kevin Pho: What is fake gratitude? Janet Jokela: In the Wall Street Journal article that I reference, its almost like its anti-gratitude, or sort of a rebellious approach to gratitude: I dont want to feel gratitude, Im angry about blah, blah, blah, embracing ones resentment or ones anger. Thats as opposed to trying to force false gratitudebeing grateful even though we may not really feel that way. I dont want to go down that path. My path was, where can we really find gratitude in the circumstances in which we find ourselves now? I realized that if you step back and think about it, there are a few things that I landed on. One was the ACP policiesthe American College of Physicians policieswhich are fabulous and ground us in those ACP values, the values espoused by our professional organization and also by our colleagues. We can work with them to figure out ways forward. That seemed to work. I also thought gratitude helps with mental health and how we flourish. Gratitude is a good place to be, but its also a place I realized where fear dissipates and anxiety dissipates, and things become clearer in terms of the next steps. So those are the reasons I came to gratitude in this post-election situation. Kevin Pho: So today, despite all the challenges that physicians face, and if youre disappointed with the outcome of the election, what do we as physicians have to feel thankful for? Janet Jokela: Oh my goodnessactually, a lot. Its easy to look at the cup as being half empty, but its equally easythough maybe it doesnt come naturally to many of usto look at the cup being half full. For instance, with these ACP policies, we realize the ACP has a ton of policies on a myriad of different issues our patients face day in and day out. Theyre evidence-based, theyre based in science and sound research, and the ACPs policy staff is awesome. They work so hard with the ACP leadership and committees to develop these policies, which speak to the issues when the occasion arises, and they also ground all of ACPs advocacy efforts in whatever situations arise. I found that in many ways just very comforting and reassuring. Kevin Pho: Any specific policies that come to mind, an example in terms of moving the needle to better the professional lives of physicians and the care we give for patients? Janet Jokela: Again, Kevin, how much time do you have? There are so many policies. There is a statement recently issued by our president of the ACP, Dr. Ryan Mire, that underscores the importance of vaccines and the public health infrastructure. The ACP, within the past year or so, published an updated policy paper on modernizing the U.S. public health infrastructure. Who knew that the ACP has a policy on that? Its there, and it lists very specific actions that could be taken to modernize public health. By having policies like that, the ACP and others can speak out in support of such positions when needed. Theres a ton of policies, but thats one thats quite pertinent today. Kevin Pho: Now with the incoming administration, of course there will be changes to the heads of all the public health services in our country. Tell us how the ACPs advocacy is going to be changed with this new administration. Janet Jokela: Thats a really good question. My sense is, the ACP is nonpartisan and works with congressional leaders on all sides of the aisle. Some positions a particular individual takes may align with the ACP, while others may not. In many ways, its a little like walking a fine line to stick to our policies, support our policies, and work with the new administration and whoevers in leadership to try to further these policies, which ultimately help our patients and our colleagues. Kevin Pho: Now, even within the ACP, theres going to be some political disagreement. Take us into one of these policy sessions. Whats it like when people within the ACP or within the membership often have debates from one side of the political aisle versus another? Janet Jokela: Thats a really good question too. Youre absolutely rightthe ACP has a membership of over 160,000 members, so of course not everybody thinks alike on these policies or on various issues. So how is policy created? It bubbles up through the ACP chapters in every state across the country, plus other international chapters. They vet it within the Board of Governors and debate it, and when the new policies are approved at that point, they come to the Board of Regents for implementation. The ACP policy staff has been involved throughout, doing a very careful vetting of the current evidence to support one position or another. Its a very deliberate, thoughtful process that incorporates multiple viewpoints and also the evidence. If the evidence isnt there, the paper doesnt get written or those points dont get included. Its a very careful, thoughtful process. And I guess thats another thing Im grateful forthe process. Kevin Pho: Thats right, because evidence shouldnt be partisan, right? Janet Jokela: Exactly, exactly. And when you drill down to gratitude, my goodness, we can be really grateful for that. Thats a good thing. Kevin Pho: Take us through an example where gratitude helped you through a time of professional challenge, and it doesnt have to be political. Give us an example of a difficult time you had, or perhaps a colleague had, where gratitude really helped you or that colleague through. Janet Jokela: Good question. Ill share a personal story. I had a breast cancer diagnosis within the past handful of years, and gratitude was really important in that space. It was interesting to go through, certainly as a physician, and then suddenly flipping and being the patient, getting poked, getting chemo, all of that. You realize theres a lot to be really grateful for. The American Cancer Society had a handbook for patients, and on the last page theres a list of things to be grateful for, like Im grateful to get up in the morning and feel the cold floor under my feet because that means Im alive, or Im grateful to be receiving chemotherapy because that means I didnt die suddenly of a heart attack. It really highlighted how many ways we can look for gratitude, no matter our circumstances. That was powerful. Kevin Pho: Talk about the gratitude that you have toward patients and how that strengthens your relationship with them. Janet Jokela: Sure. Listen, I love patients. Ive always loved my patients. We learn so much from them. Our colleagues challenge us, but our patients challenge us too and make us better people. They fundamentally make us better. Were challenged to think outside our box. I can share a short story of an HIV patient I cared for. He was very sick, and he knew he was sick. Anyway, he drove himself to our local VA hospital very late at night or early in the morning because he knew Id be there in the morning and wanted to be where I could take care of him. Long story short, very sad, but he passed away in the middle of the night before I could see him. I missed him, and to hear that he drove 40 miles from his home to that hospital so he could potentially be with me just brings tears to your eyes. It was incredibly touching. I was deeply grateful to know him. He was someone who struggled with day-to-day life circumstances, but to know that he made that effort was something I was so grateful for. Kevin Pho: Were talking to Janet Jokela. Shes the treasurer of the American College of Physicians and an infectious disease physician. Todays KevinMD article is The Answer Is Gratitude, and It Puts You in a Good Place. Janet, as always, well end with some take-home messages you want to share with the KevinMD audience. Janet Jokela: Sure. Thank you, Kevin. Im grateful for you. Im grateful for my colleagueswhether theyre close by or on social media, wherever they are. I think our colleagues make us better and challenge us. Im grateful for evidence-based policies that can help point us in the right direction when challenging or controversial issues arise, and that show us where to go. Thank you so much. Kevin Pho: Janet, as always, thanks again for sharing your perspective and insight, and thanks again for coming back on the show. Janet Jokela: Thank you so much, Kevin. Happy holidays. When the caregiver becomes the patient: lessons from my experiences in the health care system As a physician, Ive spent years working to provide care thats compassionate and focused on the patient. But everything changed when I found myself on the other side of the systemas a patient. Suddenly, I saw health care through a new lens, one that revealed cracks I hadnt fully understood before. What I went through opened my eyes to the real risks patients face, especially those from marginalized communities. It was a wake-up call, showing me how much work still needs to be done to make health care safer, fairer, and more empathetic for everyone. Here are five things I learned during my journey as a patientlessons that I hope will inspire changes in how we approach care. 1. We need to see the whole person One of the most frustrating things I experienced was the lack of understanding around diversity in clinical care. For example, symptoms like rashes or skin discoloration can show up differently on darker skin tones, but many providers arent trained to recognize that. A recent study revealed that 78.7 percent of medical students felt their learning resources on skin diversity were inadequate. Furthermore, after attending a seminar on skin conditions in patients with skin of color (SoC), 87.2 percent of students admitted they lacked confidence in diagnosing these conditions, citing inadequate curriculum coverage as the main reason. On top of that, my health baseline was different because of my personal wellness practices, but that didnt seem to matter. Instead of tailoring their approach to my unique situation, some providers relied on generic standards that didnt fit me. What I learned: Health care needs to do better at seeing people as individuals. Medical training has to include the full spectrum of patient experiences, from diverse ethnicities to varying health baselines. 2. Moms know their kidslisten to them As both a mom and a doctor, I know how important it is to trust maternal instincts. But during my own experience, I felt ignored and dismissed when I tried to advocate for myself or my family. It was frustrating and disheartening. In my practice, I remind parentsespecially mothersto speak up because they know their children better than anyone. Health care providers need to remember this too. What I learned: When a mother or caregiver raises a concern, take it seriously. Their insights can make all the difference in providing timely and effective care. 3. Lack of experience can cause real harm One of the hardest moments during my pregnancy happened when I went into early threatened labor. My IV for pain relief stopped working, and the nurse on duty refused to replace it. She told me she wasnt comfortable placing an IV on brown skin. I was left in pain, untreated, for over eight hours until a nurse of color came in and fixed it. Eight hours. This wasnt just about her skill levelit was about a deeper issue of bias and inadequate training. Research indicates that racial bias contributes to significant delays in treatment for Black patients, who are 40 percent less likely to receive proper pain management compared to white patients. What I learned: Providers need both clinical competence and cultural awareness. If someone feels unprepared, health care systems must provide the necessary training and support so patients arent left to suffer. 4. Pain is realdont ignore it Towards the end of my C-section, I started to feel everything. I screamed over and over that I was in pain, but no one stopped. They just kept going. That experience left a lasting scarnot just physically, but emotionally too. Sadly, I know Im not alone in this. Studies have shown that women and people of color are often dismissed when they report pain. What I learned: Pain is personal, but its always valid. Listening to patients and believing them should be non-negotiable in health care. 5. A simple apology matters Throughout my time as a patient, there were so many moments when a simple Im sorry could have made all the difference. But those moments never came. Mistakes happen. Were all human. But when health care providers fail to acknowledge those mistakesor worse, act like they didnt happenit breaks the trust between patient and provider. What I learned: Saying Im sorry isnt hard, but its powerful. It shows patients they matter, that their pain matters, and that someone sees them as a person, not just a case. Where do we go from here? My time as a patient opened my eyes to how much work we still need to do to make health care the safe, inclusive, and compassionate space it should be. We cant fix these problems overnight, but heres where we can start: Better training: Medical education must prioritize teaching providers how to care for diverse patients with skill and respect. Medical education must prioritize teaching providers how to care for diverse patients with skill and respect. More empathy: Listening to patients with compassion, especially when theyre in pain, should be a core part of carenot an afterthought. Listening to patients with compassion, especially when theyre in pain, should be a core part of carenot an afterthought. Addressing bias: Implicit and explicit biases need to be tackled head-on with training, accountability, and honest conversations. Implicit and explicit biases need to be tackled head-on with training, accountability, and honest conversations. Empowering patients: Every patient deserves to feel confident that their voice will be heard and their concerns taken seriously. Looking ahead As painful as my experiences were, they gave me a deeper understanding of what patients go throughand a stronger resolve to push for change. Health care systems are beginning to recognize their flaws, and while progress is slow, its happening. Creating a truly inclusive, compassionate system will take effort from all of usproviders, patients, and policymakers alike. But I believe its possible. By prioritizing cultural competency, empathy, and patient voices, we can build a future where everyone feels safe, heard, and valued in their most vulnerable moments. Tomi Mitchell is a board-certified family physician and certified health and wellness coach with extensive experience in clinical practice and holistic well-being. She is also an acclaimed international keynote speaker and a passionate advocate for mental health and physician well-being. She leverages over a decade of private practice experience to drive meaningful change. Dr. Mitchell is the founder of Holistic Wellness Strategies, where she empowers individuals through comprehensive, evidence-based approaches to well-being. Her career is dedicated to transforming lives by addressing personal challenges and enhancing relationships with practical, holistic strategies. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and book a discovery call to explore how she can support your wellness journey. For those interested in purchasing her book, please click here for the payment link. Check out her YouTube channel for more insights and valuable content on mental health and well-being. Survivors of the U.S. atomic bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki said receiving a Nobel Peace Prize has given them new energy to campaign for nuclear disarmament. Next August will be the 80th anniversary of the two atomic bombings that ended World War II in 1945. Terumi Tanaka survived the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. He said, "I felt like I needed to work even harder on what I had done so far." Tanaka is 92 years old. He spoke at a press conference in Tokyo on December 24 after returning from Oslo, Norway. That is where he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize for Nihon Hidankyo, the Japanese atomic bomb survivors' organization earlier in the month. Tanaka is chair of the organization. He noted that next year is an important point in history marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War. "I believe it is important to focus on the next 10 years and strengthen the movement moving forward," he added. "I would like to lead a big movement of testimonials." Tanaka is a retired materials engineering professor. He said he wants Japan to take the leadership in nuclear disarmament. "What else is there for Japan, the only country to have suffered atomic attacks, to do other than leading the nuclear disarmament?" Nuclear deterrence vs. disarmament Tanaka said he will ask Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba about the issue when they are expected to meet in January. Ishiba supports nuclear deterrence, the policy of preventing an attack by having powerful military weapons. Japan is protected under the U.S. nuclear policy. Japan also has not signed the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. All other countries that are believed to have nuclear weapons, including the United States, have also not signed the U.N. treaty. However, atomic bomb survivors have repeatedly requested the Japanese government to sign the treaty. Michiko Kodama survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which took place three days before the Nagasaki blast. She said she felt the Nobel Prize and the congratulatory messages were rewards after years of hardship, discrimination and fear of health effects from radiation. But she wants more people to know the real effects of nuclear weapons. Kodama was seven years old in August 1945. She said that, in 10 years, the survivors of the bombings will no longer be able to tell the reality of the atomic bombing. She said, I want to keep telling our stories as long as we live." Nihon Hidankyo has been described as a grassroots movement of Japanese atomic bombing survivors. They have worked for nearly 70 years to continue the taboo around the use of nuclear weapons. However, the weapons have grown in power and number since being used for the first and only time in warfare by the United States on Japan to end the Second World War. The U.S. atomic bombing of Hiroshima is believed to have killed 140,000 people. The bombing of Nagasaki is estimated to have killed another 70,000 people. Emperor Hirohito announced Japan's surrender to the United States on August 15. That brought an end to the conflict between the two countries that began with Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, December 7, 1941. Im Caty Weaver. Mari Yamaguchi reported this story for the Associated Press. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. ___________________________________________ Words in This Story focus v. to cause ones attention to be directed at or on something testimonial n. a written or spoken statement that praises someone's work, skill, or character deterrence n. the policy of preventing a military attack on your country by having the ability to answer with at least the same or stronger military force grassroots adj. a movement or organization that appears to be from normal or average people in society taboo n. something that is not permitted by custom or morality What do you think of this story? Write to us in the Comments Section. California officials have declared a state of emergency over the spread of bird flu. It is affecting milk cows in that state and causing illnesses in some people in other U.S. states. The avian influenza virus, or bird flu, has spread among wild birds, farm birds and many mammal species. The virus is known as Type A H5N1. It was identified for the first time in U.S. milk cows in March. Since then, bird flu has been found in about one third of U.S. states. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is following the number of cases and is reporting the latest details on its website. Most of the illnesses have been mild. Health officials said that one person in Louisiana was hospitalized with the nation's first known severe illness caused by the virus. California Governor Gavin Newsom said he declared the state of emergency so state workers could take faster action. California officials have been testing milk tanks. They said they have found the virus in hundreds of herds. The virus was recently found in Southern California dairy farms. It was found in the state's Central Valley in August. What is the risk to the general public? Officials with the CDC repeated that the public has a low risk of getting the virus. There are no reports of person-to-person infection and no signs that the virus has changed to spread easily among humans. Flu experts say it is too soon to know how the situation will change. But some experts are worried because flu viruses are mutating all the time and small genetic changes could take place. Are cases becoming more serious? Health officials said the first known case of severe illness in the U.S. was found in a patient in Louisiana. The person is older than 65 and has other medical problems. Officials said the person showed severe breathing problems after being near a group of sick birds. The CDC said that the Louisiana case is the first confirmed U.S. infection connected with backyard birds, or birds kept near a home. Almost all the earlier infections in the U.S. have been in farmworkers dealing with infected dairy cattle or birds. In two cases an adult in Missouri and a child in California health officials have not learned how they became infected. Angela Rasmussen is a virus expert at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. She said as more people become infected, more severe illnesses will be reported. Rasmussen said, "I assume that every H5N1 virus has the potential to be very severe and deadly." The World Health Organization says on its website that from 2003 to November 2024 about 142 people died from the H5N1 virus around the world. Most of the deaths were in Southeast Asia. How can people protect themselves? People who have contact with dairy cows, commercial poultry or with backyard birds are at higher risk than other people. CDC and other experts said those people should use breathing, eye, and hand protection, especially if the animals appear ill or if they die. The CDC said in July that it would buy $5 million in vaccines for farmworkers to protect against seasonal flu. If someone becomes infected with two flu types at the same time, it might permit the bird flu virus to mutate and to become more dangerous. How else is bird flu spread? The H5N1 virus can also be spread in raw, or unpasteurized, milk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says pasteurized milk is safe to drink because the heat treatment kills the virus. But high levels of the virus have been found in unpasteurized milk. Health officials urge people to avoid drinking raw milk. It can spread other germs in addition to bird flu. The U.S. Agriculture Department has increased its testing of raw milk across the country to identify and contain avian flu. Federal officials ordered milk testing which began this month in 13 states. Im Anna Matteo. Jonel Aleccia reported this story for the Associated Press. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. Quiz - How Serious is the Bird Flu Outbreak? Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ______________________________________________ Words in This Story mild adj. having little effect on a person, not severe at all herd n. a group of animals such as cattle or sheep dairy adj. of or relating to a type of farming that deals with the production of milk and foods made from milk mutate - v. to cause (a gene) to change and create an unusual characteristic in a plant or animal backyard n. the general area near and around someone's home assume v. to take something as correct without confirming that it is correct or right potential n. a chance or possibility that something will happen or exist in the future poultry n. birds (such as chickens and ducks) that are raised on farms for their eggs or meat pasteurized adj. put through a process in which a liquid (such as milk or cream) is heated to a temperature that kills harmful germs and then cooled quickly What do you think of this story? Write to us in the Comments Section. Drug use among teenagers has continued to drop since the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic, a large national study says. The federally financed Monitoring the Future study has been carried out yearly since 1975. However, the study only started measuring abstinence the practice of rejecting alcohol or recreational drug use in 2017. This years findings are based on answers from about 24,000 students in grades 8, 10 and 12 in schools across the United States. One major finding: About 66 percent of 12th graders said they had not used alcohol, marijuana, and traditional or electronic cigarettes in the previous 30 days. That share, or proportion, of students is the largest since the yearly study started measuring abstinence. The study is one of the best, if not the best source of national data for substance use by teens, said Noah Kreski. Kreski is a Columbia University data analyst who has studied teen drug use. Among 10th graders, 80 percent said they had not used alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes or e-cigarettes recently, another record. Among 8th graders, 90 percent did not use any of them, the same as was reported in the previous study. The only major increase found was in the use of nicotine pouches, small, white containers of nicotine which users place in their mouths. About 6 percent of 12th graders said they had used that form of nicotine in the past year, up from about 3 percent in 2023. Whether that has the makings of a new public health problem is unclear. The University of Michigans Richard Miech, who leads the study, said: Its hard to know if were seeing the start of something, or not. Early in the pandemic, students across the country were told not to go to schools and to avoid parties or other gatherings. Alcohol and drug use of all kinds dropped likely because use most often happens in friend group settings. Friends often influence each other to use drugs, experts say. As lockdowns ended, I think everyone expected at least a partial rebound, Miech said. Even before the pandemic, there were decreases in teen cigarette smoking, drinking and the use of several kinds of drugs. Experts suggested that teens were staying home as opposed to spending time in social settings, in which use of illegal substances is more likely. But marijuana use was not falling before the pandemic. And vaping was increasing. It was only during the pandemic that those activities began to decrease also. Some experts wonder if the pandemic lockdowns had a deeper influence. Miech noted that a lot of teens who experiment with e-cigarettes or drugs start in the 9th grade, sometimes because older children are doing it. But the children who were 9th graders during the lockdowns never picked up the activity. And they never had the opportunity to turn into negative influencers of their younger classmates, he said. The pandemic stopped the cycle of new kids coming in and being recruited to drug use, Miech said. Mental health may also play a part. There were increased reports of depression and anxiety in kids after the pandemic began. Depression is often linked with substance use, but some people with depression and anxiety are very cautious about experimenting with drugs, said Dr. Duncan Clark. Clark is a University of Pittsburgh medical doctor who researches substance use in kids. Some teens with anxiety are worried about the effects of substances. They may also be socially inhibited and have less opportunity to use drugs, Clark said. Im John Russell. Mike Stobbe reported on this story for the Associated Press. John Russell adapted it for VOA Learning English. ______________________________________________ Words in This Story teenager n. a child over the age of 12 nicotine n. an alkaloid substance that is the chief active principle of tobacco rebound n. an upward movement inhibit v. to prohibit from doing something; to discourage from activity With the latest relaxation and extension of its immigration policies, China is expected to become a popular destination for foreign tourists this upcoming New Year holiday. The number of inbound and outbound passengers will reach 2.05 million per day during the New Year holiday in China, up 18.8% year on year, as the National Immigration Administration has forecast. Peak hours are expected to occur mainly on the evening of Dec. 31, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025. During the holiday, four major airports in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu are expected to handle nearly 200,000 international passengers per day. Earlier this month, China announced a significant relaxation of its visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers from the initial 72 hours and subsequent 144 hours to 240 hours, or 10 days. Under the updated policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries can enter China visa-free when transiting to a third country or region. These travelers may enter through any of the 60 ports across 24 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities and stay within the designated areas for up to 240 hours. Besides, China has implemented a complete mutual visa exemption for 26 countries and issued a unilateral visa-free policy for 38 countries. This is my second visit to China. In the past, I had to go through visa and other formalities before I could come here. With this new policy, it is becoming more and more convenient to come to China, said Beschetnov Stanislav from Russia. Upon landing at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport, he planned to use the visa-free transit policy to take his family to the Bund, Nanjing Road, and other scenic spots in the city. According to the statistics of Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection, from Dec. 17 to 24, the station issued 240-hour temporary entry permits to nearly 1,000 foreigners. The top five countries are Russia, the United States, Britain, Sweden and Canada. We are on a five-day vacation in Shanghai this time. It is more convenient to come to China now, taking just over an hour to fly here, without complicated procedures or costs of a visa application, said Lim Seung-hwan from the Republic of Korea (ROK). Since China extended its visa-free policy to ROK and Japan last month, 11,000 passenger flights between Shanghai and the two countries and 363,000 ROK and Japanese tourists have been logged at Shanghai General Station of Immigration Inspection. The passenger number increased by more than 20% compared with the same period from September to October. In the meantime, the southern Chinese island province of Hainan has always enjoyed the best visa-free entry policy in China. Since the beginning of this year, more than 350,000 foreign tourists have entered Hainan visa-free, a year-on-year increase of more than three times, accounting for 85% of the foreign tourists visiting the tropical island. Visa-free entry has become the main way for foreigners to enter Hainan. The Mohan railway port in southwest Chinas Yunnan Province, an important gateway on the China-Laos Railway that entered operation in April of 2023, has welcomed over 33,000 foreign tourists this year, a year-on-year increase of 99.5%, including over 9,500 visa-free entries, an increase of ten times from last year. China recorded nearly 29.22 million inbound foreign visits between January and November 2024, up 86.2% year on year. Of these, 17.45 million entered the country visa-free, marking a significant 123.3% year-on-year growth. MDT/Xinhua The Macau government has refuted accusations of hindering the work of certain media outlets, insisting that it has always safeguarded freedom of the press in accordance with the law. In response to a written question from lawmaker Ron Lam, the Government Information Bureau (GCS) stated that the exclusion of some media outlets from official events is due to the greater demand from overseas media outlets. Both the lawmaker and the Macau Journalists Association had previously accused the government of restricting the work of certain media outlets by excluding them from official events. GCS, however, denied these accusations, reiterating that it has always safeguarded press freedom in accordance with the law, strictly following legal provisions, and protecting the right to information of media professionals. GCS explained that the governments invitations to official events have been limited to journalists from daily and weekly newspapers, television, radio, and news agencies due to limited space at the venue. This has resulted in publications such as the monthly publication All About Macau, as well as some international publications and agencies, being prevented from attending these events. In response to Lams questions, GCS reiterated the argument that there has been a greater demand from overseas media outlets for news coverage of official events. The organizing entities, GCS said, prioritize television and radio stations, publications with greater frequency, and news agencies, which is a common international practice. The Macau Journalists Association, however, has refuted this argument, stating that the rooms used for press conferences have the capacity to accommodate many more journalists than those who are present. GCS also stated that most press conferences are broadcast live, allowing local and overseas media outlets to access the information released, even if they are not present at the location. Additionally, the government disseminates various reporting materials, such as texts, images, videos, and infographics, through different platforms to the media outlets. Victoria Chan A boldly patterned BMW stands at the entrance of the Wits Arts Museum in the vibrant Johannesburg neighborhood of Braamfontein. Its bright geometric shapes are part of 89-year-old South African artist Esther Mahlangu s unmistakable style. The car is the centerpiece of an exhibition honoring her and her work. The BMW, commissioned by the German manufacturer in 1991, is among Mahlangus most well-known works and has been returned to South Africa this year after more than 30 years abroad. Exhibition curator Nontobeko Ntombela also has included pieces that document the struggles of Nelson Mandela, who was released after almost three decades in prison and became South Africas first Black president when the country transitioned from white minority rule to democracy in 1994. These include a letter Mahlangu wrote to Mandela thanking him for the sacrifices he made for the country. She is respected for persevering with art at a time when Black artists, especially women, were hardly acknowledged. Mahlangu dared to travel an uncharted path during a time when Black women artists were systemically overlooked. I hope when people see just how much she has done, they will realize the magnitude of what she has offered to the arts, Ntombela said. The retrospective also includes a documentary about the artist, where she tells the story of her rural upbringing and her Ndebele culture. For decades, Mahlangu has used her talent to promote that culture, becoming arguably the southern African ethnic groups most recognized representative. Ntombela said much of the publicly available information about Mahlangu tends to repeat the same narratives, including her first international show in Paris in 1989. Some tend to overly emphasize the culture without the balance of discussing her work as an art form. The exhibition tries to complicate this and hopefully offers an opportunity of how her art moves across these different fields and disciplines, the curator said. Some of the artworks showing umgwalo, or traditional Ndebele painting, were borrowed from collections locally and abroad. Ntombela said it took about two years to secure them. Numerous works are under the ownership of international collectors, so we needed a lot of funds to bring a lot of her work back to South Africa, she said. Mahlangu is a recipient of one of South Africas highest national awards, the Order of Ikhamanga in silver, which is awarded by the head of state. She briefly attended the launch of the exhibition last month but lives quietly in Mpumalanga province, where her colorfully decorated home remains an attraction for local and international tourists. The exhibition will run until April 17 before it embarks on an international tour starting in the United States in early 2026. MOGOMOTSI MAGOME, JOHANNESBURG, MDT/AP The inauguration ceremony for the president and members of the Legislative Assembly Electoral Affairs Commission (CAEL) took place yesterday at the government headquarters, with Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai administering the oath. Seng Ioi Man, appointed chairman of CAEL expressed gratitude for his new role. After the ceremony, he told local media, First of all, I would like to thank the Chief Executive for his trust in appointing us as members of the Electoral Affairs Committee. He announced that the commission has scheduled its first meeting to begin preliminary work for the upcoming election. In outlining the commissions objectives, Seng highlighted the importance of reviewing past elections. The preliminary work includes evaluating the previous election to identify areas needing attention and optimization this term, he said. Seng also noted that changes in election law, revised in April, necessitate adjustments in election procedures. He further explained the significance of adhering to new regulations, saying, The decisions made by the CAEL based on relevant judgments cannot be appealed. He added that these changes aim to enhance fairness and integrity in elections, stating, The election law strengthens provisions to curb irregularities and optimize the election process. Regarding voter registration, Seng reported a positive trend. As of today, the number of registered voters exceeds 330,000, compared to over 320,000 in the last election. He urged residents to register promptly, stating, The CAEL once again calls on residents who have not yet registered to seize this opportunity and fulfill their civic responsibilities. Seng addressed key questions about electoral processes and polling station arrangements. In response to inquiries about polling stations, he explained that voter turnout and suitable venues are primary considerations. According to election law, voters have several major principles guiding polling station arrangements. The first is determining how many voters will go to a polling station in that area. The second factor is whether there is a suitable venue to ensure a convenient and safe voting environment. He also discussed upcoming promotional activities planned for the second half of the year, including mobile registration stations aimed at facilitating public participation. Ng Wai Han emphasized that these initiatives are designed to encourage residents to register with necessary qualifications. Additionally, Seng highlighted recent amendments to the Election Law aimed at strengthening national security. This includes stipulations barring candidates identified as not supporting or pledging allegiance from running for election for five years. He reiterated that national regulations are in place to address these matters. Macau permanent residents who are eligible but have not registered as voters must register as voters before Tuesday (31 December), today. Seng further acknowledged the need for further analysis before providing definitive answers, with an assurance of ongoing evaluations, noting, We still need to study regional figures before providing suitable answers. Nadia Shaw A recent survey by the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM) and the Macau Economic Association has unveiled mixed results regarding employee work status across various industries. Conducted from January to December 2024, the survey gathered over 2,000 valid responses, indicating that while many workers have retained their salaries, significant challenges persist. Nearly 70% of respondents reported no changes to their salaries this year. However, about 10% experienced pay cuts, reflecting ongoing economic pressures. Lawmaker Lam Lon Wai noted that the economic landscape continues to pose challenges for many workers, stressing the need for stronger labor protections. The survey also assessed job satisfaction, yielding an average score of 6.19 out of 10. Although this represents a slight improvement from previous years, over 52% of respondents expressed concerns about their work environment. Despite a decrease in anxiety levels, many employees remain worried about job security and industry stability, Lam stated at a press conference. In terms of turnover recovery post-pandemic, the survey found that 40% of companies have regained between 70% and 90% of their pre-pandemic revenue. Conversely, nearly 10% reported recovering less than half of their previous turnover, highlighting the uneven recovery across different sectors in Macaus economy. The survey also identified ongoing issues related to illegal labor practices. Lam pointed out that the problem of illegal non-resident workers remains serious, with 630 illegal workers apprehended between 2023 and early 2024. He called for a comprehensive review of the Labour Relations Law to enhance employee rights and improve law enforcement efficiency. Regarding career development, more than 40% of respondents expressed a desire for increased on-the-job training opportunities. Lam emphasized the importance of vocational skills training and suggested establishing scholarships for middle-aged employees to encourage further education. He advocated for incorporating certifications into promotion and salary considerations to foster continuous learning. The survey explored employees intentions regarding job changes as well. Only 11% indicated they were considering a career switch, a decrease from previous surveys. This suggests that while anxiety persists, workers may feel slightly more secure in their current positions. In response to global challenges such as extreme weather conditions, Lam proposed improvements to workplace guidelines to ensure employee safety during adverse events. He urged companies to adopt scientific assessment tools like the heat index to better protect workers. Additionally, the survey stated that it is crucial for employers to respect employees private time, recommending businesses grant workers the right to disconnect to maintain a healthier work-life balance. Local underemployment has worsened, with the number of underemployed individuals rising by 1,100 to a total of 5,800 for the rolling three-month period ending in November 2024. This marks a significant increase of 23.4% compared to previous figures from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC), published on December 30, 2024. Most underemployed individuals are concentrated in the real estate and business sectors as well as transport and storage. Underemployment reflects a troubling trend where individuals are forced to accept part-time roles or positions that do not match their skills or wage expectations due to a lack of better job opportunities. The overall underemployment rate in Macau has now reached 1.5%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from earlier periods. Nadia Shaw SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. It is just after 9 p.m. on election night in an oversized suite on the 24th floor of downtown Pittsburgh's Fairmont Hotel. All the couches and cushioned chairs have been placed along the wall and replaced by around a half dozen campaign staffers working at desks, or makeshift desks, watching data start to pour in from across Pennsylvania. In the center of it all sits Dave McCormick, looking at a monitor with his wife, Dina Powell, hovering over him, her arm on his shoulder. It is a tender moment captured in the middle of a chaotic scene. It's early, and McCormick, Republican Senate challenger, is behind incumbent Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) at this moment, but there appears little panic. In fact, they are smiling. So are Mark Harris and Brad Todd, McCormick's top campaign advisers. Harris is looking at a whiteboard with counties scribbled across the top, and Todd is pacing, looking at his iPhone. Elizabeth Gregory, McCormick's press secretary, is on the phone. Matt Gruda, McCormick's campaign manager, is watching the results as the Republican challenger starts to grab a very slim lead. By midnight, they all know McCormick will win, as they have suspected for the past month. However, it would take the Associated Press two days to call it and Casey two weeks to concede a race very few analysts thought the three-term Democrat could ever lose to a candidate his team believed was an easy target. McCormick and his team believed otherwise. So how did a West Point graduate from Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, go from losing an agonizingly close, contentious Republican Senate primary two years ago to Dr. Mehmet Oz to winning against Casey, whose family has been a Pennsylvania political institution for four decades? It all began with focus and an interview conducted in his Pittsburgh living room days after he lost that first race. At the time, McCormick said he was unsure if he would try another race. Within just over a year, he was in. The first thing he did was what many CEOs do when forming a board of directors: He formed a team of professionals from very different backgrounds and experiences who had never worked together. This is a risky business in politics, where a campaign team usually comes as a package deal. Harris, the Pittsburgh-based chief strategist, was hired first. He came from the political orbit of former Pennsylvania Republican Sen. Pat Toomey. Todd, whom McCormick dubbed "the chief storyteller," was hired on Labor Day 2023. He came from the world of Republican Sens. Rick Scott (Fla.), Josh Hawley (Mo.), and Thom Tillis (N.C.). Gregory and Gruda were strategists for Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). Todd, a Tennessee native and founding partner of OnMessage who coauthored "The Great Revolt: Inside the Populist Coalition Reshaping American Politics" in 2018, said it's impossible to overstate the importance of their team not having a contested primary. "That is all a testament to Dave's nature and his work ethic," said Todd. "He did not get mad and let people who weren't for him become enemies from the first race. He just kept working on relationships." In those early days traveling across the state, you could see McCormick sitting down and listening to people who did not support him. He never acted like anyone owed him anything, even though it would have been easy to adopt an "I told you so" pose after Oz lost badly to Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) in 2022. He also engaged in small, off-year elections for local offices, thus building more relationships. Then came the hard part: how to run against a man who, with the exception of one primary race for governor in 2002, had won handily in every statewide race he had run, including for state auditor general, state treasurer and the Senate. Add the kicker that Casey had the same name as his late father, a beloved centrist Democrat governor of the state. From 30,000 feet, a win against Casey seemed daunting. Todd said he and Harris found out really quickly in research that Casey's strength was overstated. "He was a mile wide and an inch deep," explained Todd. "A lot of people were familiar with his name, but nobody was familiar with anything he had done or was working on doing." In short, Casey had no political equity. Todd said it is rare to see a politician who has broad name recognition and no equity, "especially after as long a career as he had. But beyond knowing that he was in office, he really started with nothing. On the negative side (in terms of campaigning against him), he also did not have any established negatives." No one was ready to throw Casey out, but no one knew how to rally around Casey to keep him in. Todd explained that was the tricky part of the campaign. "So we had to accept early on that people were not going to hate Bob Casey or think Bob Casey was terrible, so we had to construct a strategic framework that let voters vote for Dave without being mad at Bob," he said. One key thing they had to do was invest cash in introducing McCormick. Todd explained that sometimes you beat incumbents by just piling on their negatives, something he said he's done in certain races. "But because Casey didn't start with a lot of negatives and we knew he would have unlimited money, we did not think that it was possible to beat him with negatives alone," he said. "Therefore, the positive construction of Dave and what he's for was going to be pretty important." Meanwhile, Todd said Casey's mistake was his refusal to break with President Joe Biden or, later, with Vice President Kamala Harris. "It was obvious to us from the start that the administration was unpopular," Todd said. "Joe Biden personally had some old wells of support, but the administration was unpopular." Despite that, McCormick's team likely was the only campaign in the United States that was happy when Biden stepped off the ticket. "We thought that Harris ... would be a disaster in Pennsylvania, and that's why we were ready to go with a campaign linking Casey to Harris on the very first day, really before any other campaign in the country was," he said, pointing to their groundbreaking ad using the voices of Casey endorsing the vice president and the vice president on her litany of positions that included banning fracking, getting rid of the filibuster, limiting meat consumption and abolishing the immigration-control service. The ad was potent. Using the vice president's leftist statements in her own voice did more to demonstrate that the Democratic Party was too far left than anything they could put on the screen with an announcer in graphics. Using Casey's voice saying she was awesome and perfect, juxtaposed with her saying something far left, helped establish him on the wrong side of the political divide. Casey's team did little to disrupt their plan despite having a big money advantage heading into the summer, while McCormick's team held their powder until they could even things up in September and October. Meanwhile, Mark Harris "just spent an enormous amount of time trying to do resource strategy," Todd said of the strategist's strength in understanding the state. Mark Harris had run both of Toomey's successful races. Also crucial for McCormick was the help of Keystone Renewal, the super PAC run by Sean Parnell, a former Army Ranger who served in Afghanistan, ran for Congress and lives in western Pennsylvania. Without Keystone Renewal, McCormick may not have crossed the finish line. Parnell helped raise $14 million for the effort that tapped into several different categories of voters, including traditional, young and low-propensity voters, and got them to vote by mail. The final report released Friday showed Republicans added a total of 240,430 people to the permanent vote-by-mail list, the first cycle ever where state Republicans added more voters to the permanent list than Democrats did. Parnell said they also produced 365,000 first-time voters. "Those 365,000 are the first voters we need to fold into the program for the next cycle to get added to the permanent list, something that will benefit us immensely," he said. Todd said the most maddening thing for him was race handicappers kept not seeing McCormick's path to victory: "The Cook Report moved the race to toss-up, but nobody else did, ever." Throughout the race, Todd said reporters would repeatedly tell him you cannot beat Casey in Pennsylvania. He would counter by pointing to Casey's lack of deep favorables. What they missed was that the race was close, that McCormick had budgeted well and so was going to have enough money, and even more importantly, the presidential race was moving away from Kamala Harris and, in tandem, from Casey too. Poll after poll after poll showed Casey would be at whatever number the vice president was, and McCormick would be five or six points below President-elect Donald Trump. Todd said that is a hill you can climb "because that means there are a lot of people who are voting for Trump who just don't know enough about you yet." In the end, the coalition that voted for Trump was also the coalition that brought over McCormick. There are likely a few voters in upper-income suburbs who voted for McCormick but didn't vote for Trump, and there are likely a few people in blue-collar, suburban and ex-urban communities who voted for Trump but didn't vote for anybody in the Senate race. However, the conservative populist coalition that most of the press missed once again expanded. It is a working-class coalition, plus some capitalists who think the Democrats have gone too far. Todd said he suspects that because a lot of the voters who are Republican historically but skeptical of Trump are mostly tax cut and border-security type voters, "I think some of those people will continue to come home. They don't like the rhetoric around Trump. They're not culture warriors, but they do agree with him on border security and on the economy. And I suspect he can win a few more of those over time if he plays his cards. And I think the more they get to know Dave, the more they're going to love him." In the end, Todd said McCormick won because of his leadership in the campaign infrastructure and because he embodied Pennsylvania. "Dave's family has a detailed family history, and they've invested in writing it all down. They do things like go to Decoration Day every year," he said. "You very quickly come into the fact that West Point is a really important inflection point for his father, Doug, and Dave both. It has shaped the rest of their life. And so, we had a challenge of ... how do you portray (that) West Point's a United States military institution (inside) which you cannot shoot an ad, then we got to the notion of the Thayer Gate because that's a portal," he explained. Once you walk through that gate, you're a soldier, and when you walk out of that gate, you are an officer. It was a transformational threshold that became the pivot point of their campaign. The team's last ad was shot in the streets of West Point, right outside the gate, with McCormick referring to the experience of going through the gate and how it changed him. In the close, he said, "I left here determined to serve my country for the rest of my life, and that's why I'm running." When you understand what motivates a candidate, it is the most important thing you can do to persuade a swing voter. They're swing voters for a reason. They don't have real strong opinions on a lot of matters. Or they have strong opinions that conflict with each other ideologically. From the deliberate strategy of winning over voters in places such as Pennsylvania's Luzerne and Bucks counties and to cutting into Casey's votes in Montgomery, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia, it was clear the plan worked. In the end, swing voters went with their gut based on what they perceived to be the motivations of the candidates, and McCormick won. (COMMENT, BELOW) Salena Zito is a CNN political analyst, and a staff reporter and columnist for the Washington Examiner. She reaches the Everyman and Everywoman through shoe-leather journalism, traveling from Main Street to the beltway and all places in between. The News in Brief Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Shalva Tadumadze, a sanctioned Supreme Court judge and chairman of the Chamber of Criminal Affairs, has been appointed as the deputy to Georgian Dream's Minister of Internal Affairs, Vakhtang Gomelauri.Tadumadze, who is under sanctions from Lithuania and Ukraine, brings a controversial background to his new role. Since 2019, he has served as Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Court of Georgia and held a lifetime appointment as a Supreme Court judge.Previously, Tadumadze held prominent government positions, including Chief Prosecutor of Georgia from 2018 to 2019 and head of the administration of the Government of Georgia.However, his qualifications for the Supreme Court have been challenged. Transparency International (TI) has raised concerns over the absence of evidence confirming that Tadumadze meets the mandatory educational requirements for the role, such as holding a master's degree or its equivalent.Kakha Kaladze, General Secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream party, stated he was unaware of an interview given by former senior official Irakli Shaishmelashvili to TV Pirveli. In the interview, Shaishmelashvili claimed close ties between Bidzina Ivanishvili and Zviad Kharazishvili, nicknamed Khareba, suggesting that orders for breaking up protests may have come directly from Ivanishvili."Who is Shaishmelashvili? No, I don't know, I haven't heard [the interview]," Kaladze responded when questioned by journalists.When pressed further, Kaladze defended the actions of law enforcement during protests, asserting that the police acted independently to maintain public order."As for the demonstrations, I state with full responsibility that the police act independently to maintain public order. We have witnessed specific incidents and numerous examples where violent protesters approached the police, verbally and physically abused them, and threw Molotov cocktails, heavy objects, and stones. Naturally, there is always a reaction to such actions. Believe me, if there were no violence, not a single person would have been harmed," said Kaladze. SINGAPORE, Dec 31 The Johor-Singapore Causeway, one of the worlds busiest land crossings, is gearing up for transformative upgrades as daily traffic surges to an anticipated 40 per cent increase by 2050. Currently accommodating around 300,000 crossings daily, the century-old Causeway connects Singapore and Johor Baru with six vehicle lanes and pedestrian pavements. However, congestion is a persistent issue, especially during peak periods. In response, Singapore is set to expand the Woodlands Checkpoint (WCP) over the next decade. Channel News Asia (CNA) reported yesterday that the redevelopment will include demolishing the Old Woodlands Checkpoint and nearby residential areas to create a facility five times larger than the current one. ADVERTISEMENT The expansion, expected to be completed by 2032, will nearly double car immigration booths from 40 to 78 and increase bi-directional cargo booths from 16 to 37. Authorities aim to accommodate the rising volume and improve efficiency for travellers. Across the Causeway, Malaysia is also preparing for the future. Plans for Johors Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) include introducing QR code scanners for passport-free travel and additional e-gates for low-risk travellers. According to Johors director for BSI, Mohd Faizal Shamsuddin, enhancements will also include a new pedestrian walkway from Hako Hotel to BSI and 25 additional motorcycle booths. The construction of an air-conditioned pedestrian travelator has also been proposed. According to CNA, experts are proposing bold measures to alleviate congestion. ADVERTISEMENT Transport economics specialist Walter Theseira highlighted the physical limitations of the Causeway, which only has three lanes in each direction. Increasing immigration booths wont solve the bottleneck, Theseira said, emphasising the need for solutions like electronic toll gantries. A toll system could vary charges depending on the time of day, incentivising drivers to avoid peak periods and explore alternatives such as the Tuas Second Link. Meanwhile, Stulang assemblyman Andrew Chen echoed calls for innovative approaches, advocating for a single-point clearance system. This would allow travellers to clear immigration for both countries at their departure point, a system already employed by the upcoming Johor Baru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link. Other transport options are also on the table. Rosli Azad Khan, a transport planning expert, proposed increasing ferry services between Changi and Pasir Gudang and introducing a cable car network linking high-rise points on both sides of the Causeway. ADVERTISEMENT These alternatives could divert significant traffic from the Causeway, Khan was quoted as saying, adding that affordable ferry options for motorcyclists could further reduce strain. The RTS Link, slated to begin operations by 2026, is also expected to provide much-needed relief by offering a direct rail connection between Singapore and Johor Baru. House Speaker Martin Romualdez looks forward to 2025 with a renewed sense of unity, hope and determination, urging Filipinos to embrace the coming year as an opportunity to help the government build a stronger, more resilient Philippines. In a New Years message released on Tuesday, December 31, Romualdez extended his well wishes of prosperity and peace to every Filipino family. The New Year symbolizes a new beginninga chance to work together and establish a stronger future for our nation, he said. - Advertisement - The leader of the House of Representatives and seasoned politician from Leyte acknowledged the challenges brought by the devastating series of typhoons, floods, and other calamities in 2024, but also highlighted the resilience and unity of Filipinos in overcoming hardships. As we step into 2025, let us carry with us the lessons of the past year. Let us remain united in our resolve to rise above challenges, to rebuild what has been lost and to ensure that no Filipino is left behind, Romualdez said. The Speaker reaffirmed the House of Representatives commitment to addressing the nations needs through proactive legislation aimed at boosting economic growth, improving public services, and enhancing disaster resilience. He also stressed the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure access to essential services and opportunities for every Filipino. Together, we will continue to push for programs that pave the way for a brighter future for every family, he added. Romualdez reiterated his full support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s vision of a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines). He encouraged all Filipinos to do the same in the spirit of collective action and unity. Once again, I wish everyone a happy, abundant, and peaceful 2025. Mabuhay ang Pilipino, at mabuhay ang ating mahal na Pilipinas! (Long live the Filipino and long live our beloved Philippines) Romualdez concluded. A handful of personalities hogged the headlines this year whether through hearings that lasted for hours on end or victories that were decided within minutes. They accounted for a large portion of the news cycles stretching from January to December. For better or worse, they have come to define the year that is 2024 here in the Philippines. Lets take a look back at the arcs of these newsmakers: - Advertisement - Alice Guo Dismissed Bamban mayor Alice Guo brought national attention to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) following illegal activities related to a gambling hub in her own municipality. The viral hearings involving Guo had her Filipino identity put into question, leading to further probes concerning POGOs, falsified government documents, and even espionage. She would come to fuel endless memes on social media throughout the year. Guo was memorable not just for her soundbites about forgetting or growing up on a farm, but for her actions such as escaping to Indonesia before eventually being captured, and then posing for photos in spite of the situation. The high-profile case of Guo preceded the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in July, where he announced a ban on all POGOs ahead of formally issuing Executive Order No. 74 in November to enforce the ban until the end of 2024. Carlos Yulo Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo made history in August by winning back-to-back gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Through gold-medal finishes in both the mens artistic gymnastics vault and floor exercise, he became the first double Olympic gold medalist in the Philippines. Yulo would be dubbed as the Golden Boy, who received millions in cash and other incentives from both the public and private sectors. Unfortunately, the athletes family drama also figured in the spotlight, bringing much unwanted negative attention to Yulo, partner Chloe San Jose, his parents, and his siblings. Apollo Quiboloy Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy is now detained at the Pasig City Jail after a two-week search operation in his Davao City compound between August and September led to his surrender. The controversial police operation saw Quiboloy supporters blocking a highway for a supposed prayer rally for the preacher facing criminal cases. Detention is not the end of it for Quiboloy as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) recently junked the petition that sought to disqualify him from running for senator in the 2025 midterm elections. Sara Duterte Vice President and former education secretary Sara Duterte faces three impeachment complaints so far over alleged misuse of government funds during her leadership of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and Department of Education (DepEd). Its a particularly controversial year for Duterte, who also had a public falling-out with Marcos, whom she ran with in the 2022 elections as part of the UniTeam electoral alliance. She even said she had arranged for the killing of the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez if she herself is killed. The political ties between the Dutertes and the Marcoses will come into play in 2025, when their respective allies and supporters will participate in the senatorial elections. For his part, however, Marcos has shown resistance against his running mates potential impeachment. Mary Jane Veloso Filipina mother Mary Jane Veloso returned to the Philippines in time for Christmas after surviving a death penalty in Indonesia, where she was detained over drug trafficking charges for almost 15 years. The Marcos administration was able to secure a prison transfer deal for Velosos comeback. Her legal battle continues to this day as she and her supporters appeal for presidential pardon. Veloso narrowly escaped death by firing squad in 2015 when the Philippine government convinced Indonesia that she was a victim of human trafficking, who could testify against a drug syndicate. On Monday, December 30, Guinean Foreign Minister Carlos Pinto Pereira voiced serious concerns over Mozambiques escalating political tensions following its October 9 elections. While acknowledging reports of electoral irregularities, Pereira urged opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane to seek dialogue, emphasizing that Mozambique cannot afford a return to civil war. Speaking at a press conference summarizing the years diplomatic achievements, Pereira stressed the importance of peaceful resolutions and encouraged Mondlane and other stakeholders to involve mediators in constructive discussions. Our appeal is directly addressed to candidate Mondlane to embrace dialogue as the way to resolve differences, he stated. Pereira recognized Mondlanes ability to mobilize public support but warned against resorting to force. Forceful measures do not resolve issues. Mozambique has experienced the devastating effects of civil war and must avoid repeating that painful history, he cautioned. The minister noted that initial reports from election observers suggested the polls had largely gone smoothly, despite some irregularities. He called on all parties to prioritize dialogue to safeguard Mozambiques stability and future. Pereira also lamented the rising violence, reports of people fleeing the country, abandoned investments, and acts of vandalism. These developments are deeply harmful and counterproductive for Mozambique, he said. On December 23, Mozambiques Constitutional Council declared Daniel Chapo the winner of the presidential election with 65.17% of the vote, succeeding Filipe Nyusi. Frelimo, the ruling party for 50 years, retained its parliamentary majority. The results have been contested by Mondlane and his supporters, leading to widespread unrest. Amid the turmoil, South Africa appointed Sydney Mufamadi as a special envoy to help restore calm in neighboring Mozambique. Violent protests have erupted since Frelimos victory, and the confirmation of Chapos win by the Constitutional Council last week has triggered further unrest and riots. The economic challenges faced by Angola and its families have deepened over the past year, driven by rising unemployment and increasing prices for goods and services. These findings were highlighted in the Consumer Confidence Indicator released by the Angolan National Statistics Institute (INE) on December 30, based on its Consumer Situation Survey for Q3 2024. The survey, which sampled 3,000 families across Angolas 18 provinces, revealed widespread pessimism about the economy. Most respondents anticipate further price hikes for goods and services over the next 12 months. This marks the sixth consecutive semester of decline in the Consumer Confidence Indicator, reflecting what the report describes as a low degree of optimism among Angolan families. Key factors contributing to this negative sentiment include the expectation of rising unemployment, bleak projections for the countrys economic outlook, and concerns over households financial stability in the coming year. When asked about their ability to save money in the current economic climate, only 22% of households expressed optimism, a 0.9 percentage point drop compared to the same quarter last year. Similarly, intentions to purchase a car within the next two years were expressed by just 2% of respondents, a slight decline of 0.4 percentage points. On a more positive note, intentions to buy or build a house in the next two years increased modestly, with 11% of respondents expressing certainty about their plansa one-percentage-point rise compared to the same period last year. Demographically, 50.5% of respondents fell within the 2544 age range, while 6.5% were aged 1524 years, providing insight into the population most impacted by the ongoing economic difficulties. The findings underscore the pressing need for measures to restore consumer confidence and address the economic challenges faced by Angolan families. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Average breastfeeding-initiation rates increased during the 2022 infant formula crisis and remained elevated at the end of the crisis, according to a study published online Dec. 30 in Pediatrics. Luis Seoane Estruel, from the University of Connecticut in Storrs, and Tatiana Andreyeva, Ph.D., from the University of Connecticut in Hartford, examined the evolution of breastfeeding-initiation trends during the 2022 infant formula crisis. Average changes in breastfeeding-initiation trends were examined by analyzing 2016 to 2022 national birth certificate data from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The researchers found that average breastfeeding-initiation rates increased by 1.96 percentage points during the 2022 infant formula crisis. Furthermore, at the end of the crisis, rates remained elevated above historical levels. Among mothers with lower education levels, those receiving Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children assistance, residents of less populated counties, Medicaid recipients, and Black mothers, the increase was particularly pronounced, possibly due to their greater reliance on formula feeding. The largest increase in breastfeeding initiation (6.06 percentage points) was seen for populations meeting all of these sociodemographic criteria. In 2022, preexisting disparities in breastfeeding initiation declined. "The disproportionate changes for population groups with lower breastfeeding rates contributed to a reduction in preexisting disparities in breastfeeding initiation, suggesting an underlying potential for improvement," the authors write. More information: Luis Seoane Estruel et al, Breastfeeding Trends Following the US Infant Formula Shortage, Pediatrics (2024). DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-067139 Rita Wang et al, Infant Feeding Disparities Amid the Formula Shortage: Where Do We Go From Here?, Pediatrics (2024). DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-068835 Journal information: Pediatrics Copyright 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Beijing insisted on Tuesday that it had shared information on Covid-19 "without holding anything back", after the World Health Organization implored China to offer more data and access to understand the disease's origins. Covid-19, which first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, killed millions of people, shredded economies and crippled health systems. The WHO published a statement on Monday saying it was a "moral and scientific imperative" for China to share more information. "Five years ago... China immediately shared epidemic information and viral gene sequence with the WHO and the international community," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday. "Without holding anything back, we shared our prevention, control and treatment experience, making a huge contribution to the international community's pandemic-fighting work," she told reporters at a regular press briefing. This month marks the fifth anniversary since the outbreak in Wuhan was first reported. Over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, the WHO repeatedly criticized Chinese authorities for their lack of transparency and cooperation. A team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese colleagues conducted an investigation into the pandemic's origins in early 2021. In a joint report, they favored the hypothesis that the virus had been transmitted by an intermediary animal from a bat to a human, possibly at a market. Investigators have not been able to return to China since, and WHO officials have repeatedly asked for additional data. 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Over the last five years, Larimer County in northern Colorado has seen what appears to be a steady, sustained drop in its suicide ratea potentially significant breakthrough in a state that consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for its high rate. How the county got there was a decade-long affair in which local officials, nonprofits, private businesses and law enforcement rallied around suicide prevention, Larimer County advocates said. Their efforts were bolstered by state and federal grants and a voter-approved dedicated sales tax that pumped millions of dollars into varying initiatives. The combined push there has included community training, economic support, and sustained investment in suicide prevention organizations. As a result, Larimer County stands alone among large Colorado counties in seeing a continuous year-over-year decrease in suicide rates between 2019 and 2023. "What Larimer is exemplifying, and what we were hoping to see, is that implementing all the best practices at oncefor all communitiesis the best strategy to reduce the impact of suicide," Lena Heilmann, the director of the state Office of Suicide Prevention, said in an interview. In 2019, Larimer County had one of the highest rates of suicide deaths per capita in Colorado, about 23 per 100,000 residents, among counties with a population of at least 100,000. That about matched the statewide rate. But unlike the state as a whole, the rate since then has slowly ticked down, to about 21.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people in both 2021 and 2022 and then to 16.5 in 2023a total drop of about 28% over the time span. In terms of individual lives, that equated to 20 fewer deaths by suicide in Larimer County in 2023 compared to 2019. The statewide suicide rate at that time hovered at about 22 deaths per 100,000 people, with an uptick in 2021 to just under 24. Denver likewise remained about flat, at 22 per 100,000 people, in that time. Jefferson County averaged 21 deaths by suicide per 100,000, including a swing from about 18 in 2019 to nearly 27 in 2021. Rates are always at risk of fluctuating, but a sustained drop represents a clear success. Advocates say Larimer County's decreases also highlight that there's no single tool local agencies can leverage on its own to fight a public health crisis as complex as suicide. One local official says the success has come from anti-suicide efforts there being truly communitywide. "If I look at what we identify as pieces that have contributed to the success in Larimer County, it's that ongoing community dialogue about behavioral health across the continuum, from crisis through well-being and recovery," said Amy Martonis, the Larimer County behavioral health director. "That is, the shared commitment for this to be a community issue. It's not an individual issue or a family issue to be solved." Grant fueling decrease is set to expire In late 2015, two 11-year-olds in Fort Collins, the county's largest city, died by suicide within a week of each other. The tragedies shattered hearts across the city and underscored the importance of fighting the public health crisis that has long plagued the Mountain West. The community formed the Imagine Zero coalition. The coalition worked to weave together disconnected anti-suicide efforts, and in turn they "flourished," said Rachel Olsen-Towlen, deputy director of the Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County, in an interview. Local advocates also built support for a dedicated sales tax to support behavioral health services and suicide prevention. The quarter-percent tax, equal to 25 cents on every $100 spent, passed in 2018. The tax revenue has led to more than $14 million in local community grants and the opening last year of the Longview Campus, which has 24/7 behavioral health urgent care among its services. That influx of money coincided with another major effort as part of the Colorado-National Collaborative for Suicide Prevention. The program includes $900,000 in grants, spread across counties with high rates of suicide, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The federal grant has made up a third of the budget for the local Alliance for Suicide Prevention. That grant expires next year, and officials aren't sure if they can expect more. The grant was billed as funding a pilot program to see which strategies might work to reduce suicide rates. The numbers bear out the effort's success, and now the alliance is looking to shore up financial support and avoid any sudden funding gaps. Kimberly Moeller, executive director of the alliance, expressed concern but said the group was hopeful. "We believe that people are generous," she said. "We believe that our community is invested. We believe that this state is invested, and we are cautiously optimistic that this funding will continue to come." The alliance isn't a direct service provider in the way the Longview Campus is. It's more focused on acting quickly and filling in where needs arise, such as community training, awareness campaigns and connecting providers with those who need help. A big part of the success was simply investing in the staff that made these efforts possible, Moeller and Olsen-Towlen said. Low pay and trying work conditions lead to turnover, which in turn leads to frayed relationships that need to be rebuilt whenever a new person is hired. Breaking that cycle means that staff members stay around long enough to build programs and adapt them to changing needs, without starting fresh at every new development. The broad-based strategy means there's no specific program or effort that officials in Larimer County can point to for other communities to emulate. The makeup of every community and county is too distinct. "I wish there was a cookie-cutter situation where we could say, "Here is our plan, here's exactly how we did it'and go and implement this into another community," Olsen-Towlen said. "I don't really think that (our success is) exactly there. But part of what has made us successful is that we are a very small, nimble non-profit." Larimer County is among 15 Colorado counties that have participated in the Colorado-National Collaborative. Most others are smaller and rural, making per-capita trends more subject to large fluctuations. In the larger participating countiesEl Paso, Jefferson, Pueblo and Mesathe suicide rates also fluctuated up and down. Larimer also wasn't the only community in Colorado to pass a dedicated sales tax for behavioral health needs, the umbrella term for substance use and mental issues, in recent years. Denver voters approved a similar tax in 2018, and its suicide rate has remained relatively flat, at about 22 deaths per 100,000 people, since 2019. A recent investigation by Colorado Public Radio found Denver's grant money, which has gone to service providers to address a variety of purposes, was subject to questionable oversight. 'The calvary isn't coming to save us' Heilmann, from the state Office of Suicide Prevention, highlighted Larimer County's and the alliance's focus on community training to recognize suicidal despair, the fighting of isolation and connecting people with economic support as particularly effective. Advocates have worked with schools, businesses and the wider health care community to launch suicide prevention initiatives and trainings. The results have caught the eye of federal partners, Heilman said, as well as the state. One of the most visible pieces of Larimer's commitment has been the Longview Campus for behavioral health services. In its first year, it served more than 6,000 people across the behavioral health spectrum. Its services include medicated withdrawals for substance use disorders and other crisis care. Dr. Lesley Brooks, the executive director and medical director at Longview, noted it was too new to play a direct role in suicide rates yet, but she underlined its importance both as a symbol of the community taking action and producing tangible results in people's lives. Many of the people it has served since opening might have found care elsewhere, she said, but some also likely would have stayed home and suffered in silence. Larimer County's broader suicide prevention efforts and its long-term push show a recognition that "the cavalry isn't coming to save us," she said. That's the lesson she hopes other communities take from its promising results: Community advocates, including those in law enforcement, schools, local governments and private businesses, need to rally together to identify the gaps and how to fill them. That doesn't necessarily mean new taxes, either, she said. "We really did, across sectors, have people who said, 'OK, let's figure this out,'" Brooks said. "That's my message to other communities: You have those champions. You don't have to pass ballot initiatives." None of the officials downplayed the role of money in helping Larimer County bend down the curve of suicide rates, but they also said it's not the central piece. "This is really a county that is demonstrating this comprehensive approach is working," Heilmann said. "We're on the right track on understanding how to implement this comprehensive approach, tailored to local communities, to see the biggest decrease that we can." 2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pietro Jeng from Pexels Ann Lewandowski knows all about pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, the companies that shape the U.S. drug market. Her job, as a policy advocate at drugmaker Johnson & Johnson, was to tell patient and physician groups about the PBMs' role in high drug prices. Armed with that knowledge, Lewandowski filed a potentially groundbreaking lawsuit in February. Rather than targeting the PBMs, however, she went after a big company that uses oneher own employer, Johnson & Johnson. Lewandowski charges in her lawsuit that by contracting with the PBM Express Scripts, which is part of the insurance giant Cigna, Johnson & Johnsonwhich fired her in Aprilfailed in its duty to ensure reasonable drug prices for its more than 50,000 U.S. employees. By choosing an Express Scripts plan, she charged, J&J cost employees "millions of dollars in the form of higher payments for prescription drugs, higher premiums, higher deductibles, higher coinsurance, higher copays, and lower wages or limited wage growth." Lewandowski, 40, from outside Madison, Wisconsin, relies on an expensive multiple sclerosis drug. She brought the lawsuit, she said, because she "had trouble aligning the policy positions" she reported on as a J&J employee "with the actions I experienced as a health plan user." In recent years, the opaque business practices of PBMs have drawn fire. The Federal Trade Commission is conducting a lengthy investigation of the three biggest companies and sued them in September, accusing the firms of driving up insulin prices. Bipartisan bills in Congress would rein them in. And businesses such as Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs and smaller, "transparent PBMs" have tried to wean pharmaceutical companies and health plans from their reliance on the big PBMs. But Lewandowski's lawsuit goes to a sensitive spot that had been overlooked until recently: language in the 2021 appropriations bill that revised the 1974 Employee Retirement Income Security Act, known as ERISA. The original law focused on stopping fraudulent retirement plans. Her lawsuit is based on congressional language specifying that the law's requirement of prudent management covers health as well as retirement benefits. By providing workers with a health plan, employers aren't "doing you a favor. They are holding your money and investing it in your health," said Barak Richman, a George Washington University health law professor. In July, a similar lawsuit was filed against Wells Fargo, and more suits are in the works. PBMs demand discounts and rebates from drugmakers, which leads the manufacturers to charge higher list prices, which can drive up the price patients pay at the pharmacy. At the same time, retail pharmacies say PBMs are driving them out of business by paying them less than what the PBMs charge health plansa practice known as spread pricing. Patients typically have no idea what they'll pay for a drug, and neither do their employers, because many PBMs' contracts contain nondisclosure clauses. Dissatisfaction with the status quo and fear of liability are pushing employers to switch from the "Big Three" PBMs to "transparent PBMs," which don't shroud their pricing and drug choice decisions. "We brought on nine Fortune 500s this year, 1.2 million patients," said AJ Loiacono, CEO of New York City-based Capital Rx, a PBM founded in 2017. According to a recent survey, as many as half of U.S. employers are considering switching. Cuban, in an interview with KFF Health News, said he has told hundreds of Fortune 500 executives, in one-on-one meetings and in groups, that they are overpaying on drug benefit plans skewed to fatten the wallets of big PBMs. "You're getting ripped off," Cuban said he tells them. "You don't really understand the elements, and that's costing you money and costing you wellness. And now you are going to get sued. It's not a question of if but a question of when." Pressuring a purchasing cartel The billionaire, who launched Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs in 2022 to upend the byzantine $500 billion U.S. drug market, is convinced that the Lewandowski suit and others will end the dominance of the big PBMs, which control 80% of the business. Cost Plus Drugs charges a straight 15% markup with small processing fees for the 2,500 drugs it sells, most of them generics, said co-founder Alex Oshmyansky. Its nearly 3 million customersindividuals, health plans, and transparent PBMsappear to be saving money in many cases. The big PBMs say their buying power and exclusive access to information enable them to save money for insurers, employers, and patients. Critics say they are skimming up to 25% from the drug market, perhaps $100 billion a year, according to Oshmyansky. The opaque strategies and conflicts of interest, critics say, often result in the poorest, sickest patients paying the most for medications. The three PBMs amount to a "purchasing cartel," Oshmyansky said in an interview at Cost Plus' Dallas headquarters, once the office of broadcast.com, the internet radio company that made Cuban his first billion dollars when he sold it to Yahoo in 1999. "They buy all the drugs, they jack up the prices, and then they resell them." Richman and Amy Monahan of the University of Minnesota argued in a journal article this year that the Department of Labor, which has previously focused its ERISA oversight on retirement benefits, should issue standards for the use of health care dollars under the law. When companies "enter into dumb contracts with insurers or PBMs, arguably they are in violation of ERISA," Richman said. "Taking the law seriously would really require employers, who are spending half the health care dollars in the country, to spend that money in very different ways." Some drug market experts, however, doubt the ERISA lawsuits will succeed. Complex PBM money channels "make it hard to build a case," said Stacie Dusetzina, a professor of health policy at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. "You might think your company is overpaying, but relative to what?" The ERISA Industry Committee, which lobbies Congress for some of the biggest U.S. companies, is asking Congress to give PBMs the specific duty to represent their clients' financial interests, said Melissa Bartlett, the group's senior vice president for health policy. That could require patients to sue the PBMs rather than their employers. A few big employers are already changing their drug plans. In 2019, Connecticut became CVS' first PBM customer to negotiate a transparent fee structure. Its contract required 100% of drug rebates be passed along to the state and eliminated spread pricing. The state decided to go further when it sought a new contract for its 214,000 employees this year, said Joshua Wojcik, director of health policy and benefits in the state comptroller's office. Instead of discounts and rebates, it demanded the lowest net cost per employee. Of the three big PBMs, only CVS bid on the contract. It edged out a few "transparent PBMs"a sign, in Wojcik's view, that CVS at least doesn't want to be left out as more customers ditch the current PBM business model. With the change, Wojcik estimates the state will save up to $70 million a year. $13.40 vs. $2,500 Changing drug benefit policies at big companies takes time, said Oshmyansky of Cost Plus. Their PBM contracts last three to five years, so "you have to capture them in that one year where they are evaluating other options," he said. PBMs pay benefit plan consultants and the brokers big companies hire to steer business their way. "We have this weird structure where multiple sclerosis, cancer patients subsidize everybody else's drugs," Oshmyansky said. Instead of creating a pool that spreads costs to everyone with insurance, there's a "disproportionate burden placed on the sickest members." Cost Plus generates the biggest savings for its customers on about 50 extraordinarily high-priced generic drugs. The poster child is imatinib, a generic cancer pill that Cost Plus sells for $13.40 for a 30-day supply, compared with the $2,500 it retails for at pharmacies. A study conducted by Dusetzina and colleagues found Medicare could save $662 million a year just by buying imatinib and six other generic cancer drugs from Cost Plus rather than through a big PBM. Ironically, though, most generic drugs are cheaper in the U.S. than in Europe or Canadaso cheap, in fact, that they fall into shortages as companies get out of the business or stop making needed improvements to their production lines. In response, Cost Plus has started a compounding pharmacy to make common generics and soon hopes to have a sort of "private reserve" of 70 to 80 products that it can make on short notice if they go into shortage, Oshmyansky said. While the company hasn't yet set up purchase agreements for most brand-name drugs, Oshmyansky and Cuban are hopeful. Drugmakers, through their trade group Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, have lobbied fiercely to rein in PBMs in the past two years. At a Sept. 24 hearing at which Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) grilled Novo Nordisk CEO Lars Fruergaard Jrgensen over high prices for diabetes and weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, the executive expressed support for a more transparent pricing model. "On average, for our products, we give 74% in rebates to PBMs" for every $1 the company charges, he said. If, instead, "we simply paid the PBMs a small fee for the limited risk and contribution they make, I think patients would be significantly better off." 2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Xinhua News Agency: The year 2024 marks a milestone in China-Africa relations. The Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was successfully held, after which bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China were elevated to the level of strategic relations and the overall characterization of China-Africa relations was elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Could you tell us what are the highlights of China-Africa cooperation over the past year and your outlook for China-Africa relations in the year to come? Mao Ning: In 2024, China-Africa relations have continued to produce fruitful results despite an international landscape featuring transformation and instability. Weve witnessed the grand friendly gathering of the big China-Africa family. Nearly 6,000 guests from both at home and abroad, including leaders of all the 53 African countries having diplomatic ties with China, Chairperson of the African Union Commission and UN Secretary-General, came to Beijing to attend the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Weve witnessed the remarkable elevation of China-Africa friendly relations, as bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China were elevated to the level of strategic relations and the overall characterization of China-Africa relations was elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Weve witnessed the impressive progress in China-Africa friendly cooperation. The FOCAC Beijing Summit affirmed that the two sides should jointly advance modernization characterized by six features and announced 10 partnership actions for China and Africa to advance modernization. A good number of signature programs and small and beautiful projects have come to fruition in Africa. Weve witnessed the solidarity of the Global South and the collective rise of the Global South with China and African countries as its key members. The adoption of the Beijing Declaration at the FOCAC Beijing Summit made a voice of justice that opposes hegemonism, bloc confrontation and decoupling and severing of supply chains. Looking ahead into the year 2025, we stand ready to deliver on the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and the important common understandings of the Chinese and African leaders, work together with African countries to form stronger synergy between our policies and development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, have closer cultural and people-to-people exchanges and continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each others core interests and of major concerns, continue to add new dimensions to the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, jointly uphold the shared interest of the Global South and international justice and fairness and make new contributions to promoting world peace and development. AFP: Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) called on China to share COVID-19 data and provide access to help understand the origins of the virus. They called it a moral and scientific imperative. Does the Foreign Ministry have any response to this call from WHO? Mao Ning: Since the outbreak of COVID-19 five years ago, China has shared information on the outbreak and genome sequence of the virus with WHO and the international community at the earliest time possible, and has shared with others our control and clinical experience without reservation, making great contribution to the global effort of fighting against COVID-19. On the origins-tracing of COVID-19, China follows the spirit of science, openness, and transparency, actively supports and participates in global science-based origins-tracing, and firmly opposes any form of political manipulation. China is the only country that has invited more than once WHO expert groups to come into the country to conduct joint origins study. China is also the only country that has organized multiple events for its experts to share progress on origins-tracing with WHO. On the origins-tracing of COVID-19, China has shared more data and research findings and contributed more to worldwide COVID-19 origins study than any other country. WHO experts said on multiple occasions that the Chinese side granted full access to all sites, personnel and material they requested when conducting study in China, and that the level of openness and transparency in China is what they hadnt expected. The international science community is now providing increasing clues that point possible COVID origins to various parts of the world, and a global perspective is needed to carry out origins-tracing work in multiple countries and regions. China stands ready to work with all parties to continue advancing global science-based origins-tracing study and make active contribution to better guard against infectious diseases in the future. CCTV: This year, BRICS held the first summit after its expansion, and Peru, Brazil and other countries successively hosted the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting, the G20 Summit and other important international multilateral meetings. There has been comment that 2024 is a year of the Global South. How do you see the rising momentum of the Global South and its impact on the world? Mao Ning: As Foreign Minister Wang Yi pointed out, the collective rise of the Global South in the current chapter of history is a distinctive feature of the great transformation across the world. In the past year, greater BRICS cooperation made a good start, the new model of SCO plus came into shape, and the African Union took part in the G20 Summit for the first time. Global South countries have joined hands to take part in multilateral cooperation more actively and extensively, bringing new impetus for the transformation of economic globalization, and adding new dynamism to global governance. China will always be an important member of the Global South and always be committed to unity and invigoration of the Global South. President Xi Jinping called for more open and inclusive Global South cooperation, and announced eight measures in support of Global South cooperation. He articulated the vision for countries in the Global South to work together as the staunch force for peace, the core driving force for open development, the construction team of global governance, and the advocates for exchange among civilizations. China will continue to practice true multilateralism, firmly safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and bring the Global South together in solidarity for greater strength, so as to leave the mark of the Global South on the progress of humanity. Reuters: Syria has appointed several foreign fighters to its military, including to senior positions. Among them is the leader of the Turkistan Islamic Party. Would the Foreign Ministry have any comment on this development? Mao Ning: The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) was designated by China in accordance with the law and listed by the UN Security Council as a terrorist organization. The international community needs to see clearly its violent terrorist nature and firmly combat the ETIM. AFP: The US Treasury Department said yesterday that it was subject to a cyberattack by a China state-sponsored actor earlier this month. It said that the hackers had gained access to employee workstations and some documents. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment on these allegations by the US Treasury Department? Mao Ning: On this kind of unwarranted and groundless allegations, weve made clear our position more than once. China opposes all forms of hacking, and in particular, we oppose spreading China-related disinformation motivated by political agenda. *************************************************** For the New Years Day holiday, there will be no regular press conference on January 1 (Wednesday). The press conference will resume on January 2 (Thursday). During the holiday, questions can be sent to the Spokespersons Office via fax, email or WeChat. This is the last regular press conference of the Foreign Ministry in 2024. Over the past year, we upheld fundamental principles while breaking new ground in diplomacy and achieved fruitful outcomes. A remarkable new chapter has been written in head-of-state diplomacy, new progress has been made in pursuing all-round diplomacy, new breakthroughs have been made in building a community with a shared future for mankind, and new outcomes have been achieved in serving the people through diplomacy. Chinas policies, especially major concepts and initiatives put forth by President Xi Jinping, are supported and well-received by the international community. The Chinese path to modernization is gaining greater international significance. Let me extend our thanks to you all for your attention to, support for and active coverage of Chinas diplomacy in the past year. I wish you a very happy New Year! This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Infection, graft-versus-host disease, and causes of death in Vanderbilt allogeneic HCT recipients. Credit: Cancer Discovery (2024). DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.CD-24-0719 Patients can die if they take certain previously prescribed beta-blockers during a hematopoietic cell transplant due to suppressed signals from nerves that promote bone marrow regeneration. This finding by scientists in Children's Medical Center Research Institute at UT Southwestern (CRI), published in Cancer Discovery, builds upon previous CRI research by analyzing retrospective patient data to correlate beta-blocker use with significantly worse patient outcomes. "This discovery has the potential to save lives by leading to changes in how hematopoietic, or blood-forming, cell transplants are managed in some patients," said Sean J. Morrison, Ph.D., CRI Director and Professor as well as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Investigator. Hematopoietic cell transplants are commonly used to treat disorders of the blood-forming system, including some high-risk leukemias. During treatment, a patient's blood-forming cells are wiped out with chemotherapy and radiation and replaced with transplanted hematopoietic cells. Transplanted cells create a healthy blood-forming system by regenerating hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow. While patients have reduced blood cell counts and depleted immune cells, they are at risk of dying from infections or complications until after engraftment, when the transplanted cells have regenerated adequate blood cell counts. Patients who receive hematopoietic cells from other donors are also at risk of graft-versus-host disease, where the donated hematopoietic cells identify a recipient's tissues as foreign and attack them. Graft-versus-host disease is prevented with post-transplant chemotherapy to kill donor immune cells. Morrison Lab scientists previously identified within the bone marrow the location and cellular composition of the hematopoietic stem cell niche: a specialized environment in which stem cells are maintained. They further found in 2023 that nerves promote bone marrow regeneration after irradiation or chemotherapy by activating signaling from 2 and 3 adrenergic receptors in the niche. There are three beta-adrenergic receptors1, 2, and 3that perform numerous functions across the body, primarily to relay signals from the sympathetic nervous system to various tissues. To block beta-adrenergic receptors, there are two classes of medication: 1-selective inhibitors and non-selective beta-blockers. Non-selective beta-blockers inhibit signaling from all three beta-adrenergic receptors. Both classes of medication are taken to treat cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and other conditions. Following their discovery that 2 and 3 adrenergic receptor signaling is necessary for bone marrow regeneration, Morrison Lab scientists questioned whether patients receiving a hematopoietic cell transplant, while continuing to take a beta-blocker, would engraft more slowly and have worse outcomes than patients not taking a beta-blocker. CRI researchers hypothesized that non-selective beta-blockers, but not 1-selective inhibitors, would impair hematopoietic regeneration after transplantation, since 2 and 3 are necessary for bone marrow regeneration. Study first author Jinsuke Nishino, M.D., Ph.D., a scientist in the Morrison Lab, first tested this hypothesis in mice. Consistent with the 2023 study, Dr. Nishino's findings showed that beta-blockers had no effect on normal blood cell production in non-transplanted mice. However, in transplanted mice, non-selective beta-blockers impaired hematopoietic regeneration, but 1-selective inhibitors did not. Half of the mice treated with non-selective beta-blockers died after transplantation because they couldn't regenerate their bone marrow quickly enough. To see whether beta-blockers affect human hematopoietic cell transplants, Dr. Morrison collaborated with Stephen Chung, M.D., Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine in CRI and member of the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at UT Southwestern, and Ashwin Kishtagari, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Both are medical oncologists who treat patients with blood cancers by performing hematopoietic cell transplants. Drs. Chung and Kishtagari analyzed retrospective patient data from their medical centers and found that patients who received allogeneic, or unrelated donor, transplants, as well as post-transplant chemotherapy, had significantly worse outcomes if they continued taking previously prescribed non-selective beta-blockers. "The Morrison Lab findings are relevant to patients undergoing a type of transplant used to cure leukemias and bone marrow cancers. After transplant, these patients need to be hospitalized for two to three weeks until their blood counts recover to safe levels," Dr. Chung said. "We analyzed 10 years of data and found that patients on non-selective beta-blockers take a much longer time to recover their blood counts. We further found this led to a significantly higher rate of complications and worse survival in patients." Dr. Chung said reviewing another medical institution's transplant data was important because each medical institution performs hematopoietic cell transplants slightly differently. "Our findings could significantly alter clinical practice, though confirmation in additional patient cohorts remains essentialespecially given variability in transplantation practices across institutions," Dr. Kishtagari said. "Nonetheless, our data suggest it's prudent that patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation either discontinue non-selective beta-blockers for about three weeks or transition to a 1-selective inhibitor, if discontinuation is not feasible." More information: Jinsuke Nishino et al, Non-selective b adrenergic receptor inhibitors impair hematopoietic regeneration in mice and humans after hematopoietic cell transplants, Cancer Discovery (2024). DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.CD-24-0719 Journal information: Cancer Discovery This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The U.S. government's premier research body has made an important discovery that could help create new drugs to lower "bad" cholesterol, and hopefully prevent heart attacks and stroke. But the interesting part of that story isn't just the discovery itself, but the technology responsible for it: a relatively new type of microscope that essentially froze LDL cholesterol molecules, allowing researchers for the first time to get a detailed view of the structure of LDL and find new ways to approach stopping LDL buildup into body. The technology, cryo-electron microscopy, allowed National Institutes of Health scientists to view how LDL accumulates in the blood. The microscope's inventors won the Nobel Prize in 2017, and the tech promises breakthroughs of all kinds in science. Research with this tool is going to have serious health benefits, the NIH said, because it allowed them for the first time to see how "bad" cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol or LDL-C, builds up in the body, and causes heart attacks and strokes in people who have genetically high LDL cholesterol. That condition is known as familial hypercholesterolemia. The genetic disorder causes LDL (bad) cholesterol levels to spike and remain elevated. The condition begins at birth and can cause heart attacks at an early age, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The researchers hope the breakthrough will help scientists cure FH, which affects one in 250 Americans, and increases their likelihood of dying from coronary artery disease at a younger age. Presently, most people who have FH treat it by taking statins or other drugs. But until the NIH discovery in December, which allowed them to take a sort of freeze-frame photo of the molecule, the actual way in which LDL accumulated in the body wasn't completely understood. The findings provide new insights that could one day lead to new types of drugs, said Dr. Alan Remaley, senior investigator in lipoprotein metabolism at the NIH. "Our findings provide a potential new strategy for increasing the ability of the LDL receptor for binding and removing LDL from the circulation," Remaley explained. Dr. Aditi Das and Dr. MG Finn, both with Georgia Tech's School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, explained in an email that the technology represents a revolution in biology and biochemistry because it allows scientists to determine the structures of biological molecules in great detail. How molecules function is determined by their structures. "When we know their structures, we have a big clue as to how they work, how to fix them if they are defective, or how to stop them if they cause harm. Nature is the supreme molecular architect, and we need techniques like cryo-EM to see the details of what she builds," Finn explained. Why LDL is bad The breakthrough came when the NIH was able to preserve the LDL's structure, creating a sort of freeze-frame that literally trapped LDL in a form of ice that allowed it to be seen by an electron microscope. The images were sent to a computer algorithm that then built a 3D model of the molecule. Cryo-electron machines cost between $2 million and $3 million per device, and have become essential tools for modern biological and biomedical research, Finn said. Atlanta has two of them: one at Georgia Tech, the other at Emory. The fact that LDL cholesterol contributes to cardiovascular disease has been known for some time, but until the NIH finding, researchers couldn't quite observe the process. LDL causes fatty deposits, known as plaque, to build up in the walls of arteries, which is a major cause of heart disease. LDL's purpose isn't entirely harmful: it's job is to transport cholesterol to cells for energy, repair or hormone production. But excess LDL is harmful, and the liver produces too much LDL when we eat unhealthy fats (like saturated and trans fats), which contributes to cardiovascular risk. Excess LDL in the bloodstream can get stuck in the arteries, triggering inflammation and narrowing the blood vessels. Over time, this plaque buildup can reduce blood flow or rupture, forming clots that block blood supply to the heart or brain, leading to heart attacks or strokes. Saturated fats are found naturally in animal products (like butter, cheese, fatty meats) and some tropical oils (like coconut and palm oils). Overeating foods high in saturated fat can raise LDL cholesterol. Trans fats are found in margarine, shortening, baked goods and fried foods. They raise LDL cholesterol significantly while lowering HDL (good) cholesterol, making them much more harmful, according to the American Heart Association. For heart health, it's best to replace these fats with unsaturated options like those found in fish, nuts, seeds, avocados and plant-based oils, said Dr. Danny J. Eapen, of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at Emory St. Joseph's Hospital and Emory University School of Medicine. Olive oil can also help lower cholesterol, especially when it replaces harmful fats such as butter and margarine, Eapen said. 2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Steven Andrew Calls the USA to Join 'America's Weekly Bible Verse Challenge' as a New Year's Resolution Starting January 1 NEWS PROVIDED BY USA Church Dec. 31, 2024 SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 31, 2024 /Standard Newswire/ In these challenging times, Steven Andrew, pastor of USA Christian Church, is extending an urgent invitation to every American: embark on a life-changing journey by joining "America's Weekly Bible Verse Challenge". This starts January 1. The nationwide ministry is designed to strengthen faith, unite the USA in Christ, and bring God's Word to daily life. "Americans are memorizing one Bible verse per week as a rallying point to build our lives on God's promises. Imagine the impact of millions of Americans memorizing and living by Gods Word together. We must let our light shine, for the Lord is the God of the USA and Americans obey God's Word!" Andrew said. Why Join the challenge? This will transform your life. Memorizing these Scriptures is about knowing God's love, peace, hope, and wisdom, Andrew said. You will strengthen your community and be part of a nationwide movement. You can engage with fellow participants, share progress, and uplift each other, Andrew said. We are building a strong nation, Andrew said. Commitment to Bible principles leads to a more ethical, compassionate, and God-fearing society. Your participation contributes to a stronger America. How It Works: Sign Up: Visit USA.Church to join the challenge. You can get emails with this weeks Bible verse and inspiring updates. Engage and Share: Use the hashtag #Bible to connect with online community. Share your journey, encourage others, and participate in discussions. Get the book the Top 100 Bible Verses to Memorize by Steven Andrew. ISBN9780960014934. There is Promise Book included that is made from the verses. This book is your companion to support your journey in Christian growth," said Andrew. Readers have life-changing topics such as love, forgiveness, salvation, and peace in the book. Involve Your Church: Encourage your church and Bible study groups to include the weekly verses to embrace God's Word. The first verse is Genesis 1:1 that says, In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Then Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, and John 3:16. These are followed by verses on daily living, faith, and encouragement. Andrew is a devoted pastor, author, and speaker passionate about helping others grow as Christians. He has reached over 80 million people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Make "America's Weekly Bible Verse Challenge" your New Year's resolution with a commitment to knowing God. For more information, visit USA.Church and follow Andrew on USA.Life Christian social network. SOURCE USA Church CONTACT: Steven Andrew, 877-537-8734, pastor@usa.church In a recent report, the institution outlined how digital technologies--such as the internet, mobile phones, and social media--are transforming the socio-economic landscape in the country. It said "digital capital has increased entrepreneurship and business income in India and has favored small-scale vendors and economically lagging districts". The report noted that Digital technologies provide students from disadvantaged backgrounds with access to instructional material, promoting talent development and social mobility. These tools have also enabled individuals to build digital footprints--records of online activity and payments--which can serve as digital capital. This capital helps individuals establish financial credibility, as data on payments, receipts, taxes, and loan repayments can now be used by lenders to assess creditworthiness. The report credits Nandan Nilekani, one of India's leading tech entrepreneurs, for pioneering the Aadhaar system in 2009. This digital identification initiative has allowed millions of Indians to accumulate digital capital and integrate into the formal economy. The World Bank also highlighted India's remarkable strides in social mobility, particularly in urban areas. Since the country's economic liberalization, the gains have been more pronounced among disadvantaged communities in cities compared to rural areas. It said "In India, social mobility has improved greatly in urban areas in recent decades, and has delivered larger gains for the disadvantaged than in rural areas". It also noted that India's IT revolution has played a crucial role in this transformation. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) demonstrated to the world the availability of high-quality, cost-effective talent in India, becoming the first Indian company to export computing services to the United States. The report also mentioned Infosys, founded by a group of former IBM engineers with their savings, further showcased India's IT potential, emerging as a global leader in technology consulting. The report highlighted how leveraging digital technologies and talent has not only bolstered entrepreneurship but also fostered inclusivity, bridging gaps for underserved communities and reinforcing India's position as a global technology powerhouse. (ANI) NewsVoir Pune (Maharashtra) [India], December 31: Investing in mutual funds has become an integral part of financial planning for many individuals looking to grow their wealth while managing risk. Among the wide array of mutual fund options available, the Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund offers a unique proposition that makes it stand out in the market. This fund provides a balanced blend of large-cap and mid-cap stocks, making it a suitable option for investors who want to achieve both stability and growth potential in their portfolios. In this article, we will explore why this fund could be a great choice for your investment strategy. The Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund is an open-ended equity mutual fund that invests in a combination of large cap and mid cap companies. By diversifying between large cap and mid cap stocks, the fund aims to deliver both stable returns and higher growth potential. This dual-cap approach is beneficial for investors who want to tap into the advantages offered by both segments of the market. Key Features of Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund A large and mid cap fund is mandated invests at least 35% of its portfolio in large cap stocks and 35% in mid cap stocks. Here are some unique features of the Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund: Moat investing strategy: Focus on competitive advantages One of the core strategies behind the Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund is its adoption of the moat investing strategy. Inspired by the concept of an 'economic moat' coined by Warren Buffett, this strategy focuses on investing in companies that possess a sustainable competitive edge. The fund managers specifically look for companies with a robust moat, such as those with strong brands, superior products, or unique market positions. This strategy allows the fund to invest in businesses that can weather market downturns and continue to generate profits over time, aligning with the fund's goal of delivering long-term value to investors. Balanced exposure to large and mid cap stocks What sets the Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund apart is its balanced exposure to both large-cap and mid cap stocks. This strategy enables the fund to harness the stability and proven performance of large cap stocks, while also taking advantage of the growth potential offered by mid cap companies. By combining both large cap and mid cap investments, the fund provides a diversified portfolio that caters to investors with varying risk tolerances and financial goals. Rigorous research and stock selection The success of any mutual fund scheme depends on the research and stock selection process. The fund managers conduct extensive research to identify companies with strong financial health, competitive positioning, and growth prospects. In addition to evaluating a company's fundamentals, such as its business model and management quality, the fund also considers market dynamics and industry trends. This thorough research process ensures that only the optimal companies are selected for the fund's portfolio, aligning with the fund's moat investing strategy. This disciplined approach helps maximize the chances of achieving consistent, long-term returns. Risk management through diversification Investing in the stock market can be volatile, and managing risk is crucial for any investor. Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund adopts an effective risk management strategy by diversifying its investments across different sectors and companies. This diversification reduces the impact of market fluctuations on the overall portfolio, as underperforming sectors may be offset by better-performing ones. Furthermore, the fund's active management ensures that the portfolio can be adjusted to respond to changing market conditions. This adaptability is vital for navigating the unpredictable stock market and capitalizing on emerging opportunities while minimizing potential losses. Investor-focused approach: Transparency and communication One of the key advantages of investing in the Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund is its investor-focused approach. The fund emphasizes transparency and regular communication with investors, providing updates on its performance, portfolio composition, and market outlook. This allows investors to stay informed and confident about their investment decisions. More reasons to invest in Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund Long-term Wealth Building This fund is suitable for investors looking to build wealth over the long term. The balanced approach, combined with its moat investing strategy, provides an opportunity for long-term growth. Whether you are planning for retirement, your child's education, or any other major life goal, investing in this fund can help you accumulate wealth over time. Flexible investment options The Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund offers flexibility in how you invest. You can invest through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), which allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly, or make a lumpsum investment if you have a larger amount to invest at once. Tools like the lumpsum mutual fund calculator can help you estimate the returns on your lump sum investment, while an SIP option allows you to invest smaller amounts over time to build your wealth gradually. Benefit from compounding Investing in mutual funds gives you the benefit of compounding, where the returns on your investment generate additional returns. This compound growth can significantly enhance your wealth over time. Using a daily compound interest calculator, you can get a clearer picture of how your investment will grow with regular compounding. Conclusion The Bajaj Finserv Large and Mid Cap Fund can option for investors who want a balanced and diversified approach to equity investing. By blending large cap stability with mid cap growth potential, the fund offers a well-rounded portfolio that caters to both stability and better return potential in long term. The fund's rigorous research, moat investing strategy, and effective risk management practices make it a suitable choice for long-term wealth creation. Whether you're a new investor or a seasoned one, the flexibility in investment options, coupled with transparency, makes this fund a suitable choice for your portfolio. By using tools like the lumpsum mutual fund calculator and daily compound interest calculator, you can better understand how your investments will grow over time and make informed decisions for your financial future. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL New Delhi [India], December 31: India's startup ecosystem is growing rapidly, and staying updated with the latest trends, funding news, and industry developments is crucial for entrepreneurs and business professionals. With numerous resources available online, it can be challenging to choose the right platforms to follow. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 19 startup news websites that cover everything from startup stories to investment news, providing valuable insights and practical tools for navigating the Indian startup landscape. Discover the best startup news websites in India that provide entrepreneurs with real-time updates, funding news, industry trends, and expert insights. Whether you're a new founder or an experienced entrepreneur, these platforms--like YourStory, INC42, Entrepreneur Live, and more--offer essential resources to help you thrive in India's fast-paced startup ecosystem. Stay informed with the latest updates on funding, market shifts, and entrepreneurial stories from the heart of India's vibrant startup community. 1. YourStory (YS) Website: www.yourstory.com As one of the most influential platforms for Indian startups, YourStory has played a pivotal role in telling the stories of entrepreneurs, from emerging businesses to unicorns. The platform offers a rich mix of funding news, success stories, and practical insights. It also acts as a valuable networking hub, providing entrepreneurs with resources to navigate the challenges of scaling a business. In addition to news, YourStory hosts events and awards that celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship across India. 2. INC42 Website: www.inc42.com INC42 stands out for its in-depth coverage of the Indian startup ecosystem. From funding rounds and market trends to policy shifts and technological advancements, the platform delivers valuable insights and analysis for entrepreneurs. It features exclusive interviews, case studies, and reports on emerging industries, making it an indispensable resource for anyone looking to understand the evolving landscape of Indian startups. 3. Entrepreneur Live Website: www.entrepreneurlive.in Entrepreneur Live offers real-time updates that cover the latest news in the world of entrepreneurship. The platform tailors its content to the needs of founders, offering valuable insights on business growth, leadership, funding, and strategy. Its dynamic approach ensures that entrepreneurs can stay ahead of the curve with personalized content that speaks to their challenges and aspirations. 4. Startup Chronicle Website: www.startupchronicle.in Startup Chronicle serves as a comprehensive guide to the Indian startup world, offering detailed reports on startup journeys, funding news, and industry developments. With a focus on in-depth storytelling, the platform covers the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and highlights their path to success. It's a great resource for those seeking inspiration and insights into how startups are navigating the ever-changing business environment. 5. Entrepreneur Guild Website: www.entrepreneurguild.in Entrepreneur Guild is a community-driven platform aimed at connecting entrepreneurs and providing them with valuable educational resources. Along with news and articles on entrepreneurship, the site offers mentorship opportunities and networking events, making it an essential hub for anyone looking to learn from industry leaders and peers in India's startup space. 6. Entrepreneur Tales Website: www.entrepreneurtales.in Entrepreneur Tales is dedicated to sharing inspiring stories from the Indian startup ecosystem. The platform showcases real-life examples of entrepreneurs who have overcome adversity and built successful businesses. Along with funding news and business insights, Entrepreneur Tales is an excellent resource for aspiring founders looking for motivation and lessons from those who have been through similar challenges. 7. Entrepreneur Edge Website: www.entrepreneuredge.in Entrepreneur Edge is a platform that provides entrepreneurs with practical tools and strategies to give them a competitive edge. Focused on leadership, innovation, and business growth, it offers actionable advice on scaling businesses, marketing strategies, and finance management. Entrepreneurs can use Entrepreneur Edge to fine-tune their skills and learn how to succeed in an increasingly competitive market. 8. Startup Times India Website: www.startuptimes.in StartupTimes.in India is a fast-paced news portal that offers up-to-the-minute updates on funding, mergers, acquisitions, and emerging trends in the startup world. The platform also focuses on providing entrepreneurs with resources that support business development, making it a go-to for anyone seeking timely, relevant information about the Indian startup scene. 9. The Entrepreneur Today Website: www.theentrepreneurtoday.com The Entrepreneur Today delivers critical insights into the latest business trends, leadership strategies, and market developments. With a focus on entrepreneurial growth, the platform features expert articles, success stories, and tips from industry leaders. Entrepreneurs can rely on this resource to stay updated on the latest strategies and tools needed to thrive in India's fast-paced startup environment. 10. The Entrepreneur India Website: www.theentrepreneurindia.com The Entrepreneur India is a well-rounded news platform that offers comprehensive coverage of the startup ecosystem. The platform provides news, trends, and expert opinions across various sectors such as fintech, edtech, and healthtech. Entrepreneurs can gain insights into new developments, funding rounds, and industry shifts that could impact their business operations and growth strategies. 11. Startup Magazine Website: www.startupmagazine.in Startup Magazine celebrates creativity, resilience, and innovation within the entrepreneurial community. The platform offers insightful commentary on emerging trends, success stories, and market dynamics. Whether it's in-depth analyses or expert advice on scaling businesses, Startup Magazine provides entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive environment. 12. Startup Updates Website: www.startupupdates.in Startup Updates offers real-time news, analysis, and updates on the latest happenings in the Indian startup world. From funding news and industry trends to product launches and partnerships, the platform ensures entrepreneurs have access to the most current and relevant information. This timely coverage is crucial for those seeking to make informed decisions in the ever-changing startup landscape. 13. Startup Newswire Website: www.startupnewswire.in Startup Newswire delivers breaking news and insights on the Indian startup ecosystem. The platform covers everything from funding rounds and product launches to market dynamics and entrepreneurial challenges. With its comprehensive and expert analysis, Startup Newswire is an essential resource for entrepreneurs who need to stay updated on the latest news shaping the startup world. 14. Business Saga Website: www.businesssaga.in Business Saga chronicles the stories of Indian businesses, offering a detailed look at the highs and lows of entrepreneurial journeys. The platform emphasizes storytelling to provide valuable lessons on overcoming challenges, scaling businesses, and navigating the complexities of the startup world. Business Saga also covers funding updates, market analysis, and innovation trends to help entrepreneurs stay informed and inspired. 15. Business Max Website: www.businessmax.in Business Max is a resource-rich platform that provides entrepreneurs with a deep dive into business strategies, market trends, and financial tools. Covering topics such as leadership, marketing, and technology, Business Max equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to scale their businesses effectively. The site is also home to expert advice, case studies, and industry insights that help startups grow and succeed. 16. Economic Edge Website: www.economicedge.in Economic Edge offers timely updates and analysis on economic trends, market dynamics, and their effects on startups. With expert commentary on global and national economic shifts, the platform provides entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to understand the broader economic landscape. This is crucial for making informed decisions in a market that is influenced by both global trends and local developments. 17. Republic Business Website: www.republicbusiness.in Republic Business is a platform dedicated to delivering accurate business news and thought-provoking analysis on entrepreneurship. The site covers a wide range of topics, from funding updates to industry trends and new market opportunities. Republic Business fosters a community of business professionals and entrepreneurs, providing them with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of the startup world. 18. Business Byte Website: www.businessbyte.in Business Byte provides succinct, insightful updates on business developments, focusing on trends, funding news, and the latest industry shifts. The platform's bite-sized content is designed for entrepreneurs who need to stay informed without spending excessive time on research. Business Byte's clear and concise articles help entrepreneurs make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. 19. Story Network Website: www.storynetwork.in Story Network uses storytelling as a powerful tool to inspire and educate entrepreneurs. The platform features real-life stories of entrepreneurs who have overcome obstacles and found success. Along with entrepreneurial advice, Story Network covers trends, funding news, and innovations that influence the startup ecosystem. This community-driven platform connects entrepreneurs with valuable insights, fostering collaboration and growth. 20. Wikichronicle Website: www.wikichronicle.com Story Network uses storytelling as a powerful tool to inspire and educate entrepreneurs. The platform features real-life stories of entrepreneurs who have overcome obstacles and found success. Along with entrepreneurial advice, Story Network covers trends, funding news, and innovations that influence the startup ecosystem. This community-driven platform connects entrepreneurs with valuable insights, fostering collaboration and growth. FAQs for Startup News Websites in India: 1. Where can I find the latest news about the Indian startup ecosystem? You can stay updated on the latest trends and developments in India's startup ecosystem by visiting popular platforms like YourStory, INC42, Entrepreneur Live, Startup Chronicle, Entrepreneur Guild, Entrepreneur Tales, Entrepreneur Edge, Startup Times, The Entrepreneur Today, and The Entrepreneur India. These websites offer comprehensive coverage of startup news, funding rounds, emerging trends, and industry analysis to keep you informed. 2. Which websites provide the best coverage of funding news for startups in India? If you're looking for reliable sources for funding news and investment trends in India's startup ecosystem, platforms like YourStory, INC42, Entrepreneur Live, Startup Chronicle, Entrepreneur Guild, Entrepreneur Tales, Entrepreneur Edge, Startup Times, The Entrepreneur Today, and The Entrepreneur India are excellent choices. These websites deliver timely updates on funding rounds, venture capital investments, and other financial developments affecting startups. 3. How can I stay up to date with startup news in India? To keep up with the latest startup news in India, you can regularly check websites like YourStory, INC42, Entrepreneur Live, Startup Chronicle, Entrepreneur Guild, Entrepreneur Tales, Entrepreneur Edge, Startup Times, The Entrepreneur Today, and The Entrepreneur India. You can also subscribe to their newsletters, follow them on social media, or use their mobile apps for real-time access to the latest updates, articles, and industry insights. 4. How can my startup get media coverage in India? To gain press coverage for your startup, consider pitching your story to media outlets that specialize in startup news and innovation. Platforms such as YourStory, INC42, and Entrepreneur Live are well-known for featuring emerging startups. Craft a compelling pitch or press release that highlights your startup's unique value proposition, milestones, and newsworthy developments to grab their attention. 5. What are the top startup news websites in India? The top startup news websites in India, known for their in-depth coverage of the startup ecosystem, funding updates, and business trends, are: - YourStory - www.YourStory.com - INC42 - www.INC42.com - Entrepreneur Live - www.EntrepreneurLive.in - Startup Chronicle - www.StartupChronicle.in - Entrepreneur Guild - www.EntrepreneurGuild.in - Entrepreneur Tales - www.EntrepreneurTales.in - Entrepreneur Edge - www.EntrepreneurEdge.in - Startup Times - www.StartupTimes.in - The Entrepreneur Today - www.TheEntrepreneurToday.com - The Entrepreneur India- /www.TheEntrepreneurIndia.com - Startup Magazine - www.StartupMagazine.in - Startup Updates - www.StartupUpdates.in - Startup Newswire - www.StartupNewswire.in These platforms are essential for entrepreneurs looking to stay informed about the latest happenings in India's startup ecosystem. These 19 platforms are indispensable for anyone involved in the Indian startup ecosystem. Offering a combination of breaking news, funding updates, and practical resources, they equip entrepreneurs with the tools needed to navigate the ever-evolving startup world. Whether you're a budding founder or an established entrepreneur, these portals are vital to staying informed, inspired, and ahead of the competition. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], December 31: The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, described the renowned writer and Member of Parliament, the late Shankar Dayal Singh, as a "saintly author" and praised his total dedication to truth. He said that Singh never allowed relationships to stand in the way of truth in his writing. He was unwavering in his commitment to truth, and his words and works left an indelible mark on Indian politics and society. Shankar Dayal Singh served as a Member of Parliament from 1971 to 1977, and during his tenure, he witnessed the Emergency period in India. His book "Emergency: Kya Sach, Kya Jhoot" is a reflection of the political events of that time and his personal experiences. In the introduction to the book, Singh expressed his inner voice, writing, "My frankness may cause some controversy, and my friends may also face difficulties. But what can I do? The pain of truth that lies hidden beneath the political skin of my soul constantly pricks me." This courage to speak the truth is something only a saintly writer could do as observed by the Chief Guest, Sh. Manoj Sinha ji. During the event, Swami Chidanand Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan, Haridwar, reminisced about his association with Shankar Dayal Singh. He shared that he was introduced to Singh by the eminent jurist Dr. Laxmimall Singvi when Dr. Singvi was the Indian Ambassador to the United Kingdom. It was at Dr. Singvi's encouragement that work on the Hindu World Encyclopedia began, and Shankar Dayal Singh was an integral part of the team formed for this project. Swami Ji further stated that Singh's creative contribution to this encyclopedia was significant. Reflecting on Singh's sudden passing, Swami Ji added that, like a traveler, Singh had embarked on his final journey as if guided by divine will. At the beginning of the program two minutes of silence was observed as a tribute to Former Prime Minister of India Sh. Manmohan Singh Ji. The Main Theme of the Lecture This year's "Shankar Dayal Singh Memorial Lecture 2024" focused on the theme "Hamari Jarurate aur Chahte". As the keynote speaker, Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati explained that life is not about accumulation but about relationships. He stressed that if we begin to focus on accumulation, we fall prey to our desires. Only by living through relationships can we truly understand and recognize our needs. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also emphasized that accumulation is a kin to a disease, and people in Western countries are now seeking ways to break free from it. He pointed out that the advertising industry presents our desires as needs, trapping us in this cycle. At the start of the event, Ranjan Kumar Singh son of Sh. Shankar Dayal Singh who is an author & a film maker welcomed the guests, noting that despite the rain, the large turnout was a testament to people's commitment to the event and its core values. Dr. Rashmi Singh, daughter of Sh. Shankar Dayal Singh who is an IAS Officer and currently posted as a Commissioner/Secretary & Principal Resident Commissioner, Jammu & Kashmir Government delivered the vote of thanks. She ended her heartfelt appreciation for the guests with a quote from her father's book. The event was moderated in a very graceful manner by Dr. Vartika Nanda, Head, Dept. of Journalism, Lady Shree Ram College. Distinguished gathering Amongst some the Prominent Attendees a wide cross section of society were represented covering academicians, VCs, Scholars, researchers, Artist, Media, other influencers etc. To name a few- - Politicians- Sanjay Paswan (Former Minister of State, GOI & currently MLC in Bihar), Sh. Akhilesh Prasad Singh (Member of Parliament), Sh. Virendra Singh (Former MP from Bihar), Mrs. Girja devi (former member of parliament), Dr. Sanjay Singh (Former Member of Parliament), Sh. Santosh Bhartiya (Former Member of Parliament). - Senior Bureaucrats: Smt. Usha Sharma, (Former Chief Secretary Rajsthan), Sh. SS Sirohi (former Secretary GOI), Mr. Deepak Sehgal (Former CS Uttar Pradesh) Dr. P. K. Singh (Agriculture Commissioner in GOI), Sh. Navneet Sahgal (Chairman of Prasar Bharti), and other senior officers like B. N. Sharma (Rajasthan Cadre), Aradhana Shukla) and Pradeep Shukla (UP Cadre). - Academician and Writers like Dr. Dinesh Singh (Former Vice Chancellor of Delhi University), Dr. Manisha Priyam (Scholar and Political analyst), Dr. Bipin Kumar (Vishva Hindi Parishad), Dr. Aditi Narayani Paswan (Prof. DU), Mr. Gajendra Solanki (Poet), Mr. Prabhat Kumar (Prabhat Prakashan), Mrs. Puja Chauhan & Mrs. Divya Chauhan (Amity University), Prof. Dhanajay Joshi (V.C. Delhi Teachers University), Dean of Gautam Buddha University, besides other senior, scholars & researchers. - Social Activists like Ms. Namita Gautam (Chairman of Sleepwell Foundation), Mrs. Rekha Mody (Founder of Stree Shakti), Mr. Kumar Dilip (President of Sulabh International Social Service Organization), Secretary General Bahai Sh. Merchant, Mr. Ravindra Pandita (Save Sharda Committee, J&K), Mr. Abhay Sinha (JP Memorial), Mr. Avinash Tiku (Regional Coordinator of Art of Living), Sadhvi Deepika Bharti (Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan). - Media and other Influencers like Mrs. Kiran Chopra (Punjab Keshari), Ms. Farzana Mumtaz (Kashmir News), 1st Mrs. India from Jammu and Kashmir Meenu Mahajan, Avantika Midha (Council of Royal Rootes)) and many other prominent Media Personalities, artists and senior representatives from industry and trade bodies like PhD Chambers, FICCI. Remembering Shankar Dayal Singh Shankar Dayal Singh passed away on November 26, 1995, and since then, this lecture series has been organized consistently every year on his birthday (December 27). This year, the event once again drew a large crowd. In past events, prominent figures from the world of literature, politics, and education have graced the platform as keynote speakers and Guests of Honor including dignitaries like, the then Vice Presidents Krishan Kant and Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, former Prime Ministers and Chandra Shekhar and Indra Kumar Gujral, Philosopher and scholars like Dr. Karan Singh, Dr. Laxmimal Singvi, Vinay Sahastrabuddhe and Other distinguished speakers included the then Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil, Smt. Meira Kumar, Vice Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, Dr. Najma Heptulla, former Union Ministers Yashwant Sinha, Bhishma Narayan Singh, Sh Yashwant Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha, Ram Vilas Paswan, Satyanarayan Jatiya, C.P. Thakur, General V.K. Singh, Janeshwar Mishra, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Former Chief Minister Smt. Sheila Dikshit, Sh. Manish Sisodia as Education Minister of Delhi as well as Scholars, Writers and social activists like Dr. Namwar Singh, Ved Prakash Vaidik, Ram Bahadur Rai, Dr. Kedar Nath Singh, Himanshu Joshi, Bindeshwar Pathak. The Shankar Sanskriti Pratishthan event has also been held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan under the presence of her Excellency, President Smt. Pratibha Patil. Last year, the Governor of Kerala, Honorable Arif Mohammad Khan, delivered a scholarly speech on the topic of "Sarvadharma Sambhav and Our Constitution." In 2018, Rajnath Singh, the then Home Minister, was the chief guest at this event. On the occasion of 27th December 2024 this year, Shankar Dayal Singh's literary and political contributions were discussed with admiration, reminding everyone of his significant role as a bridge between literature and politics. Tributes were paid not only for his works and his dedication to Gandhian ideals but also for his vital services for promoting Hindi and other regional languages in his individual capacity and in capacity - as Vice-Chairman of the Parliamentary Official Language Committee. His contributions to cultural, social, and educational institutions leaving a lasting impact were recognized. As a pioneer for promoting girls' education in Bihar leader, his unwavering dedication to promoting girls' education in Bihar led to the successful seting up of several institutions from their foundation stage. Such as he served as chairman from foundational stage at the Girls Residential School in Lakhisarai. Some notable institutions that benefited from his vision and leadership include: - Madhusthali Residential Schools in Madhupur, which has become a model for residential education. - Balika Vidyapeeth in Deoghar, a premier institution dedicated to empowering girls through education. Through his tireless efforts, Dr. Shankar Dayal Singh has left a lasting impact on the educational landscape of Bihar, inspiring countless youth to pursue their dreams and aspirations. His legacy continues to inspire future generations, by specially with his motivational writings and speeches. His deep faith in religion and philosophy was evident throughout his life. He organized the Viraat Hindu Sammelan at Patna's Gandhi Maidan, bringing together people from across the country in the spirit of unity with a motto of serving for humanity. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) India's rise as an economic superpower attracted the world; global leaders, economists, and business tycoons have all praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. In 2024, the country's ascension on the global stage was highlighted by the eminent personalities of India's remarkable progress, with the world increasingly recognising the country as a growth engine, a technological innovator, and a leader in sustainability. Over the years, the statements from the global leaders demonstrate the consistency of this praise. For instance, in 2021, Mark Widmar, the CEO of First Solar, said that every country should do what India was doing with climate change. In 2017, JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon said that PM Modi is always very receptive; he is open and very smart. In 2023, Hassan Allam, CEO of Hassan Allam Holdings, lauded PM Modi's leadership and said that under PM Modi's leadership, India's private sector grew tremendously, especially in the world of infrastructure, engineering, and manufacturing. Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motors, praises PM Modi's strong leadership and says, "In the past 10 years, under the strong leadership and constant support of PM Modi, for manufacturing industries, the Indian automobile market has been expanding steadily. As a result, India has become the third-largest automobile market in the world." Thomas Dohmke, CEO of GitHub, "When I compare India back then and today, there's incredible energy; things are moving and evolving. There was no Metro then, and now we have multiple lines. The airport is phenomenal, modern, and clean. I think that is also a reflection of what's happening in the software industry. There are a huge number of software developers already in India." India's growing stature as a tech hub is also evident in the words of Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, who lauded India's expertise in artificial intelligence and computer science. He said, "India is home to some of the world's greatest computer scientists. So, this is a great opportunity. Artificial Intelligence is also a new industry, a new manufacturing industry that is very important, and so I'm looking forward to partnering with India in a very deep way to make that possible." Christopher J. Elias, Foundation President, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, lauding India's growth story, said, "Other countries can use India's successful digital public infrastructure model to help achieve their healthcare and other development goals." Highlighting the progress of India's DPI, he said, "One area of particular accomplishment in India that I think can be a good model for the world to follow is digital public infrastructure that has helped achieve a lot of progress in financial services, health, etc." Bill Gates said that he is bullish on the future of India. Lauding PM Modi's leadership in digital public infrastructure and transforming the rural economy, he said, "This idea of digital connections that starts with Aadhaar and the bank accounts that you manage digitally, that's flourishing. And so we see in agriculture now that they are registering the farmers and giving them advance notice. And so Indian leadership is something other countries should benefit from." Paul Romer, Nobel Laureate in Economics, praised India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He said, "Aadhaar is the most important technological system in the world right now. I think one of the first things is that the other countries in the Digital South should say to themselves, If India can do it, we can do it too. Countries need to have the confidence and the ambition to try something that hasn't been tried before, the way India did by creating the Aadhaar number." Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam, said, "Over the past 10 years, under the leadership of PM Modi, India has become the 5th largest economy in the world, one of the top powers with a significant global role, and has made its mark."(ANI) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], December 31: As 2024 draws the curtain, it's time to look back at the year of transformative achievements and forward-thinking innovation across industries. While the year was full of changes and new policies, each industry witnessed dynamism in the most progressive format possible. Setting new benchmarks and navigating the global landscape with resilience and creativity, the list of achievements is the one to note. From pioneering advancements in wireless communication and ground-breaking AI-powered tools to reimagining workplace strategies and enhancing retail experiences, the sectoral journey this year has been nothing short of remarkable. From tech to education to HR to retail, here is what some leaders from across industries have to say about the year gone by and what they expect from 2025: Konark Trivedi, Founder and CEO, Frog Cellsat Ltd. The year 2024 has been transformative for India's telecom sector, marked by significant policy initiatives and remarkable achievements that have strengthened the national digital infrastructure. Key initiatives such as the Telecom PLI Scheme and the BharatNet project have played a central role in expanding broadband access, boosting local manufacturing, and fostering over 22,000 job creation; positioning India as a global manufacturing hub. The Telecommunication Bill 2024 was a milestone in modernizing regulations, addressing issues like spam calls and ensuring consumer protection. Similarly, the accelerated rollout of 5G, supported by programs like GatiShakti, tackled deployment challenges through coordinated efforts between the government and private players. A focus on energy-efficient networks and infrastructure sharing also helped manage rising operational costs, ensuring growth remained sustainable. Looking ahead to 2025, the sector must build on these achievements by fostering innovation in areas like public-private partnership, facilitating R&D and promoting penetration of better connectivity in lesser connected areas. Ensuring data security and stringent policies to avoid surpassing any regulation should also be the key focus to ensure privacy rights of the patrons." Suhas Misra, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Channelplay "Channelplay is in a phase of strong growth, driven by an ever-increasing demand for professionally managed sales teams, visual merchandising, and tech deployment in the channel in general including loyalty platforms, SFA, and CRM. Our continued focus on execution has us all set to grow by more than 38% year-on-year. As we look forward to 2025, we see GenAI impacting various dimensions of the channel, and as India's leading channel solutions company it is not simply an opportunity but also our responsibility to use it to the fullest. Our ongoing investment in our full channel-tech stack has been supercharged by the possibilities that GenAI has to offer." Ms. Lina Ashar, Founder, Dreamtime Learning 2024 reaffirmed the potential that lies in innovative solutions, multi-dimensional resilience, and collaboration in the context of transforming education and the best learning for the future. It has been a good year where problems were solved with creativity to encourage redefining of the learning processes. Together, we have supported efforts that sought to use challenges as good mechanisms to creatively transform the process of learning. As we move forward to 2025, our resolve to this particular mission does not change. We wish to harvest from the energy that we had last year in transforming educational growth by making bold innovations and establishing futuristic learning that should promote holistic, creativity, and a culture of learning. The aim will always remain to prepare students with abilities and knowledge towards the new global challenges that are becoming more sophisticated. Mr Piyush Peshwani, Co-founder and CEO at OnGrid "2024 marked a transformative shift in the background verification landscape as businesses adopted scalable, tech-enabled solutions to meet evolving workforce needs. For white-collar roles, AI-powered systems have streamlined credential verification and identity checks, enhancing speed and accuracy. For blue-collar workers in high-demand industries like logistics, retail, and manufacturing, the focus has expanded to include behavioral assessments, criminal checks, and skill-based evaluations to ensure workforce reliability and quality. Verified employment records are empowering workers with opportunities for upward mobility, creating a ripple effect of social and economic impact. As organizations prioritize trust and efficiency, 2025 promises deeper integration of verification into hiring workflows, setting new benchmarks for workforce assurance while adhering to stringent data privacy regulations." Mr Chitranshu Mahant, CEO & Co-Founder at Primebook "2024 had been a pivotal year for Primebook, with major turning points as we increased our presence in the market for affordable laptops. Given the growing need for affordable, high-performing gadgets, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, we focused on providing students and learners with cutting-edge technology that meets their specific requirements. The industry saw a paradigm shift this year, with consumer electronics prioritizing cost and affordability. The growing recognition of e-learning and government-sponsored digital education programs has increased the demand for internet-ready, lightweight laptops with extended battery life. Also, the emergence of AI in consumer electronics has fuelled innovation by allowing for smarter, more personalized gadgets that meet changing customer needs. These trends have made the Indian market a hub for educational technology. We look forward to 2025, which for us would mean integrating AI-driven functionalities and cloud computing as an integral part of Primebook's offerings, with a goal of reshaping the way students and learners engage with technology. Empowering the next generation of people with tools that are affordable and adaptive to the evolving digital landscape is at the forefront of our goals for the coming year." Harsh Jayesh Ruparel, CEO of Commbitz The eSIM industry in India has continued to gain remarkable traction, driven by new advancements in connectivity and the growing adoption of digital-first solutions. The year 2024 witnessed significant milestones in the sector, including the mainstream adoption of eSIM technology by major smartphone manufacturers and an increasing shift by operators towards providing seamless eSIM activation experiences for their consumers. In this rapidly evolving landscape, Commbitz has emerged as a key enabler, offering advanced eSIM solutions designed to simplify connectivity and enhance user experiences. From seamless activation processes to robust compatibility with 5G networks and IoT devices, Commbitz is committed to meeting the diverse needs of consumers and businesses alike. By focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions, we are bridging the gap between technology and accessibility. The rapid rollout of 5G services has further boosted the demand for eSIMs, enabling devices to leverage faster data speeds and improved network efficiency. Furthermore, innovation in IoT solutions has opened new opportunities for eSIM adoption across consumer and enterprise markets. As we look to 2025, the eSIM industry is poised for exponential growth, with further advancements in interoperability and integration across multiple devices. A more extensive rollout of eSIM support in budget-friendly smartphone segments is anticipated, democratizing access to this transformative technology. Moreover, as sustainability becomes a core focus, eSIMs will play a crucial role in reducing the environmental footprint of traditional SIM cards. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Actor Sonu Sood recently visited the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, ahead of the release of his much-anticipated directorial debut, 'Fateh'. The actor shared a video of his visit to the iconic shrine on social media, along with the caption, "Waheguru ji da Khalsa, Waheguru ji di Fateh." https://www.instagram.com/p/DEOjSF_o7rq/ In the video, Sonu Sood could be seen seeking blessings at the shrine, having a hearty talk with his fans and clicking pictures with them. This visit to the Golden Temple comes as Sonu Sood's action-packed thriller 'Fateh' gears up for its release on January 10, 2025. Directed by Sood himself, the film is a gripping tale that focuses on the fight against cybercrime, inspired by real-life instances during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a recent statement, Sonu Sood reflected on the emotional and passionate journey of stepping into the director's chair for the first time with 'Fateh'. He said, "Stepping into the director's chair for the first time with Fateh has been a journey of passion and purpose. This action saga calls attention to the unseen battles fought in the shadows of the digital world." He expressed excitement over the film's teaser release, adding, "It's a glimpse into a world we've poured our hearts into creating, and I can't wait for viewers to experience the adrenaline, the emotions, and the sheer power of Fateh." Sood described the film as an "ode to every hero who dares to fight back against impossible odds" and expressed his hope that the film would inspire and electrify viewers. Alongside Sood, the film features a star-studded cast including Jacqueline Fernandez, Vijay Raaz, and Naseeruddin Shah. The film promises high-octane action sequences and an engaging narrative that will captivate audiences. Additionally, Hollywood professionals, including the director of photography, research teams, and action choreographers, have been roped in to elevate the film's global appeal. Produced by Shakti Sagar Productions and Zee Studios, 'Fateh' addresses the pressing issue of cybercrime and its impact on society. Before his visit to the Golden Temple, Sonu Sood had also paid a visit to the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, where he offered his prayers for the success of 'Fateh'. Reflecting on his spiritual journey, Sood remarked, "When I made the film Fateh, it started with the darshan of Baba Mahakal, and when we are releasing the film on January 10, our promotion begins from here. I pray that with his blessings our film becomes successful." (ANI) Canadian actor Angus MacInnes, best known for his roles in 'Star Wars: A New Hope' and 'Rogue One', has passed away at the age of 77. As per Variety, MacInnes breathed his last on December 23. He died peacefully and surrounded by family, according to a statement by the MacInnes Family shared on social media. "To all Angus' fans around the world, with breaking hearts, we write this: Angus MacInnes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and actor died on 23rd of December 2024. He left us peacefully, surrounded by his family and love," read the statement posted to Facebook. "Angus' career spanned decades, with unforgettable roles in films such as 'Star Wars: A New Hope' (as Gold Leader, Jon 'Dutch' Vander), 'Witness,' 'Judge Dredd,' 'Captain Phillips,' and many others. His work touched countless lives, and he took great pride in being part of these stories that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide," the statement further read. The family described Angus as "a kind, thoughtful, and generous soul who brought warmth and humor into the lives of everyone who knew him." "He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and fellow actors but also by his fans around the world - his family thank you all," they added. MacInnes starred as Jon "Dutch" Vander, better known as Gold Leader, in the first "Star Wars" film, and would go on to reprise the role in the "New Hope" prequel "Rogue One." Other credits include "Eyes Wide Shut," "The Black Dahlia," "Formula 51" and "Rhythm & Blues." (ANI) Actor Karan Deol treated his fans with a glimpse of his 2024 journey. On Tuesday, Karan dropped a video featuring his father Sunny Deol and brother Rajveer Deol. The video also had Karan's wife Drisha Deol and his uncle and cousin Bobby Deol and Aryaman. Along with the post, Karan wrote a long note, "2024 has been a year of growth, family, and new beginnings. Grateful for the precious time spent with loved ones, shooting #Lahore1947, and the journeys that helped me recharge." He expressed his excitement for his upcoming film 'Lahore 1947'. "As we step into 2025, I'm excited to share my next chapter with you all--release of my film and diving into new projects. Here's to more adventures, stories, and memories ahead!" he concluded. https://www.instagram.com/p/DEPRSfaJ66O/ The upcoming period-drama film 'Lahore 1947' is rising excitement, featuring Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta in lead roles. Sunny Deol, Rajkumar Santoshi, and Aamir Khan, collaborating for the first time for this project. As per the latest information from the film's production team, "The shooting for Lahore 1947 has concluded after an intensive 70-days schedule. The schedule has been completed without taking any breaks. It's been a fantastic experience to see stalwart actors bring a magical quality to the film. Once the edit will be locked, there will be a few days of patch work... but largely the film has finished shooting. Raj ji has been very excited with what they have been able to capture. There have been several crowd sequences that have been shot". In a recent update, the makers unveiled that the film's grand finale included a breathtaking train sequence, which is touted to be one of the most ambitious and elaborate scenes ever attempted in a film about the Partition era. It is expected to set new standards for visual storytelling, capturing the chaotic and emotionally charged atmosphere of the time with unparalleled detail and intensity. For 'Lahore 1947', Aamir Khan will be stepping into the role of producer, bringing his vision and expertise to the project through Aamir Khan Productions. The film will be directed by the renowned Rajkumar Santoshi, known for his exceptional storytelling. Leading the cast will be Sunny Deol and Preity G Zinta, who will play pivotal roles in this highly anticipated film. The film was officially announced last October, garnering attention for its star-studded cast and promising storyline. Shabana Azmi and Ali Fazal have also joined the cast of 'Lahore 1947' in a pivotal role. (ANI) Actor Shraddha Kapoor is all set to welcome the New Year 2025 with adorable pictures of herself on social media. On Tuesday, Shraddha posted some pictures on Instagram where she is looking cute in round glasses. She wore a black T-shirt paired with denim. The 'Stree' actor asked her fans in the caption, "True or false??? Main aaj 11 baje so jaoongi." https://www.instagram.com/p/DEP25JvIrv0/?img_index=4 Netizens bombarded the comment section with funny responses. A fan wrote, "So jao warna sarkata a jae ga." Another user commented, "Chalo shraddha ab agle saal milte hai...happy new year." "Wo stree hai wo kuch bhi krskti hai.. jhooth bhi bolskti hai..., " a user wrote. Earlier, Shraddha represented India at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She turned heads with her stunning red-carpet appearance at the gala screening for the MENA premiere of the film We Live in Time. Meanwhile, on the work front, Shraddha is basking in the success of her film 'Stree 2', which also features Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana among others. It was released on August 15, alongside other big Hindi films such as 'Khel Khel Mein' and 'Vedaa'. The film has etched its name in cinematic history by becoming the highest-grossing Hindi film ever, surpassing the lifetime collections of Shah Rukh Khan's 'Jawan'. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh recently confirmed the news on his official X handle."#Stree2 scripts HISTORY... Becomes the HIGHEST-GROSSING *HINDI* FILM EVER... Crosses *lifetime biz* of #Jawan [#Hindi version]... Next stop: Inaugurating the Rs 600 cr Club. [Week 5] Fri 3.60 cr, Sat 5.55 cr, Sun 6.85 cr, Mon 3.17 cr, Tue 2.65 cr. Total: Rs 586 cr. #India biz. #Boxoffice," he wrote. Directed by Amar Kaushik, 'Stree 2' has captivated audiences not only with its engaging storyline but also with star-studded cameos from Varun Dhawan and Akshay Kumar, both of whom have been praised for their contributions to the film. Recently, at one of the media summits, Shraddha shared that she got a lovely congratulatory wish from Tabu post 'Stree 2' success."Tabu ma'am called me... She had most amazing things to say me on phone. She even sent me a personalised perfume with Stree written on it. She made me feel empowered and made me feel proud of myself," she shared. (ANI) The Gujarat Government, under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has resolved 83 per cent of grievances submitted through the Visitor Management System, a platform introduced in January 2023 to ensure transparent and effective redressal of citizens' concerns. According to the official statement, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat Government continues to work tirelessly to serve its citizens. The government ensures that people can raise their concerns and grievances through multiple channels, reaching the highest levels if necessary. Demonstrating a model of good governance through citizen empowerment, CM Bhupendra Patel introduced the Visitor Management System to personally address citizens' issues, achieving a resolution rate of 83 per cent for grievances to date, the statement added. Further, the statement said, the Visitor Management System, launched on January 9, 2023, enables citizens to meet the Chief Minister in person and facilitates effective and transparent grievance redressal. The Chief Minister dedicates the first two days of the week--Monday and Tuesday--to meeting applicants. Visitors are required to register on the Visitor Management System portal, after which their requests are categorised into "Complaints" and "Greetings." Citizens in the "Greetings" category are issued passes to meet the Chief Minister directly. Complaints in the "Complaints" category are reviewed in detail by officials at the Chief Minister's Office, who prepare a brief note on the matter. Subsequently, a pass is issued, and the case is referred to the Chief Minister for further action, the statement said. After understanding the grievance, the Chief Minister provides direct instructions to the concerned authorities for prompt resolution, followed by continuous follow-up and monitoring. To ensure sensitivity and effectiveness, the program incorporates an Auto Escalation Metrics system, enabling timely and qualitative grievance resolution within defined timeframes, the release mentioned. Additionally, the statement noted that since its inception in 2023, a total of 4,793 citizens have met the Chief Minister under the Visitor Management System. Among these, 3,103 citizens belonged to the "Complaint/Grievance" category, while 1,690 were in the "Greetings" category. Notably, 83 per cent of the grievances raised by the 4,793 applicants have been resolved successfully. Under the Visitor Management System, complaints are categorised into three channels--Green, Yellow, and Red--based on their severity and complexity. Depending on the nature of the grievance, entries are made in the CM Desk, public grievance, or Taluka/District-level forums to ensure swift resolution. Further, according to the statement, the MP-MLA Unit at the Chief Minister's Office plays a vital role in systematically addressing administrative grievances. This unit handles representations and complaints related to governance from Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel directly supervises the cell's operations. During the current 15th Legislative Assembly, MPs and MLAs submitted approximately 14,500 representations, of which 93 were successfully resolved. The establishment of the MP-MLA Unit has enhanced communication between public representatives and administrative bodies, expediting developmental projects and improving governance, the release stated. (ANI) The meeting was held at Sahyadri State Guest House in Mumbai on Monday. During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed to grant single-window online permission for the shooting of films in Maharashtra. He also directed the preparation of a plan for the whole year to celebrate the tricentenary year of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar by organizing programs to ensure that her work reaches all the schools and colleges. CM Fadnavis said that the work of Punyashloka Ahilyadevi Holkar is great and her tricentenary should be celebrated with releasing a good commercial feature film on her life and work. He also said that the government shall give a grant for such a feature film. The Chief Minister also directed that in order to ensure all Marathi films are made in the film city at Goregaon, the rentals for them should be reduced. CM Fadnavis directed that under the 'Har Ghar Samvidhan' initiative it needs to be ensured that the constitution reaches every household of the state. Several ministers including Dhananjay Munde, Ashish Shelar, Jaikumar Gore, Sanjay Savkare, Pratap Sarnaik, MoS Yogesh Kadam, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Ministers Vikas Kharge, Additional Chief Secretary O.P. Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Rajgopal Devra, Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Sethi and senior officers were present in the meeting. (ANI) As the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads, Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) project director N Surendran has said that this experiment will prove fruitful for future assignments like the Bharatiya Antariksha Station and the Chandrayaan-4 mission since docking mechanism was becoming necessary. "It is one of the experiments that we are going to prove in orbit, which is going to be useful for future assignments or projects assigned to us like our Bharatiya Antariksha Station (Indian Space Station) and the Chandrayaan-4 mission. In the two complex and challenging projects, this docking mechanism is becoming an inevitable requirement," Surendran told ANI. He further said that docking remains mandatory for human missions as well, on occasions when there is a need to attach to an international space station. "Docking is mandatory. For human space missions also, when you want to attach to an international space station, humans should pass through this docking mechanism. So that way it will be a technology demonstrator," Surendran said. Space Scientist Subhendu Pattnaik had explained before the launch that in the space docking experiment two spacecraft will be separated in a circular orbit around Earth. The spacecraft will maintain a distance of 20 kilometres, initially, for a few days and will be united so that the experiment is successful. "Two spacecraft will be separated in the circular orbit around Earth. They will be kept apart around 20 km and gradually after a few days, they will be brought closer and closer...finally, both will be joined together...if we succeed in this experiment, India will become 4th nation in the world after Russia, China and USA, to successfully conduct that experiment," Pattnaik told ANI. Meanwhile, following the successful launch of the SpaDeX mission, Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh stated that India has become the fourth country to join the select league of nations to achieve space docking through its own indigenously developed "Bharatiya Docking System." Taking to X, Singh said, "India has become the fourth country to join the select league of nations to achieve space docking, through its own indigenously developed 'Bharatiya Docking System.'" "Privileged to be associated with the Department of Space at a time when Team #ISRO mesmerizes the world with global wonders, one after the other." the minister added. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for the launch of the NVS-02 satellite in January 2025, aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), said ISRO Chairman S. Somanath earlier. Speaking about the upcoming mission, Somanath added that this mission is just one of many planned for the upcoming year. "In 2025, we have many missions. To start with, we have the mission of GSLV launching the NVS-02 in January," Somanath said. ISRO's year-end mission is historic as it seeks the rare feat of docking or joining together two satellites in space. The project has been named "Space Docking Experiment" (SpaDeX). SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV. The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a Low-Earth circular orbit. The technological challenge has been mastered only by a few countries and the indigenous technology used for this mission is called the "Bharatiya Docking System". Docking technology is key for long-term missions like "Chandrayaan-4" and the planned Indian space station. It is also crucial for the eventual manned "Gaganyaan" mission. (ANI) Delhi Police has detained 12 Bangladesh nationals who were living in different areas of south Delhi without any identification, an official said. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) South East Ravi Kumar Singh said that these people were caught from areas including Nizamuddin, Kalindi Kunj, Shaheen Bagh, and Sarita Vihar. They have been sent to detention camp, he added. "So far, we have caught 12 Bangladeshis, from different areas like Nizamuddin, Kalindi Kunj, Shaheen Bagh, and Sarita Vihar. We have detained them and they have been sent to the detention camp. All the Bangladeshis that we have met were without identities and some people had been living for a long time. We are investigating further. We have a Bangladeshi cell, a specialised unit, which works on this. We have verified close to 1,200 people and will do so in the future as well as information will come," Singh told ANI. Meanwhile, in another case, Delhi Police arrested six people while taking action against complaints over fake identification cards, an official said. The Electoral registration officer had submitted two complaints against eight people in connection with this matter. DCP (South East) Singh said that upon receiving complaints they filed two FIRs against those involved. The cyber cafe owner along with five others including two middlemen were arrested. "We received two complaints from the Electoral registration officer, Okhla which was against a total of eight people. Two FIRs have been lodged. After investigation, we have arrested six people. Of six, two people are middlemen and three others have also been arrested. The cyber cafe owner has been arrested who was involved in making fake voter ID cards. The three (accused) had submitted electricity bills (in a fraudulent way). The cyber cafe owner helped them apply for voter ID on someone else's bill," Singh told ANI. Further investigation into the matter is underway and the police were taking action against in such cases, he added. (ANI) True Potato Seed, is an innovative approach that is being used in Tripura to address the major challenges of traditional potato cultivation, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices Dr Rajib Ghosh, Deputy Director of the Horticulture Research Center in Nagicherra, Agartala, shared insights on True Potato Seed (TPS) and its transformative impact on potato farming during a conversation with ANI. He emphasized how TPS is transforming agriculture by tackling major challenges in traditional potato farming. In conventional potato cultivation, tubers are used as seeds, requiring around 2 metric tons of seed potatoes to cultivate one hectare of land. The transportation of such large quantities, especially in hilly areas, becomes expensive and logistically difficult. The TPS method, however, eliminates these challenges. With just 100 grams of seeds, farmers can cultivate the same area, which reduces the costs and transportation efforts. The seeds are compact, resistant to rotting, and easy to handle, making them an ideal solution for farmers in remote regions. According to the officials, the advantages of TPS and Botanical Seeds are higher yields since TPS-grown crops yield more compared to traditional methods. This culture is also resistant to pests, which allows crops from botanical seeds to show greater pest resistance. Several products like hybrid vegetables and potatoes grown using TPS show improved quality and productivity. Dr Ghosh revealed that TPS is being developed under various government projects in Tripura, with specialized crossing and multiplication blocks ensuring high-quality seed production during the winter season. The TPS produced in Tripura is in high demand both domestically and internationally, with exports to Bangladesh and Kenya. "In agriculture, especially in potato cultivation, traditional farming relies on tubers (potatoes) to grow new potato plants. To cultivate one hectare of land using this method, farmers need approximately 2 metric tons of seed potatoes, which require a truck for transportation. In hilly regions, transportation becomes a significant challenge due to high transportation costs and poor accessibility," he said. "In contrast, True Potato Seed (TPS) offers a revolutionary solution. Only 100 grams of TPS is sufficient to cultivate one hectare of land. This compact size allows farmers to easily carry the seeds in their pockets, eliminating transportation costs and logistical difficulties. Moreover, TPS has no issues with rotting, ensuring safe and reliable handling over long distances. TPS and botanical seeds offer several advantages Higher Yield Crops grown from TPS produce higher yields compared to traditional methods. Pest Resistance Plants grown from botanical seeds are more resistant to pests. Hybrid Benefits Like other hybrid crops (e.g., hybrid vegetables), potato crops grown from TPS exhibit better productivity and quality," he added. Another expert, Sudhriti Das, Assistant Director at the Horticulture Research Center in Nagicherra, Agartala emphasised the role of light in Hybridization and elaborated on the significance of artificial lighting in the hybridization process. "In winter, limited daylight hinders flowering, which is crucial for higher yields," he explained. To address this, sodium vapour lamps are used to extend daylight hours, promoting effective flowering. Without these lights, flowering would be insufficient, leading to reduced production. Tripura's climatic conditions are also considered favourable for hybridization by several experts. "As you can see, lights are glowing all around us. We are currently in a hybridization field, and these lights are essential for the hybridization process. During the winter season, this process becomes crucial due to the specific characteristics of light. Flowering requires extended daylight, but in winter, daylight hours are very limited, with darkness setting in as early as 4 PM. To compensate for this, we use sodium vapour lamps to extend the photoperiod. These lamps promote flowering, which in turn leads to higher production. Without these lights, although the plants may grow, flowering will not occur effectively, significantly reducing yield," Dr Das said. "The demand for these lamps is particularly high in Tripura, where we use about 60 to 70 kilograms of seeds annually for hybridization. Other states like Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam also use these techniques. However, these states are unable to produce the seeds locally because the climatic conditions are not as favourable as in Tripura. The ideal climatic conditions in Tripura are similar to those in a region of South America, the original birthplace of this seed production method," he added. Tripura's success in the method has also garnered international attention. A South Korean scientist and the original pioneer of TPS from Lima, South America, recently visited the region and praised its innovative methods. They acknowledged Tripura's achievements as unmatched, even compared to efforts in their own countries. Dr Das also emphasized that Tripura's hybridization success is due to favourable conditions and the absence of natural disasters during critical periods. This consistent success has drawn scientists from across India and the world to study and replicate Tripura's model. the initiative aims to make Tripura a global hub for True Potato Seed production, ensuring sustainable farming practices and contributing to agricultural advancements worldwide. (ANI) The Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party came out heavily against the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi by putting up posters outside the BJP Delhi office targeting the 10-year rule of AAP. In their posters, the BJP called the AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and other senior leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendra Jain as "Bhrashtaachaar Ke Tees Maar Khaan" (Master of Corruption). The BJP in their poster accused Kejriwal of making huge amounts of money through the alleged liquor scam, by allegedly increasing the margin of liquor contractors from 5 per cent to 125 per cent. The BJP also slammed Manish Sisodia, stating that he being the Education Minister, went to jail in the 'liquor scam' while the education minister. BJP also accused him of implementing the liquor policy by holding secret meetings with industrialists. BJP accused Jain of 'corruption' in an alleged money laundering case and making money through "Hawala" channels. The BJP further slammed the 'Delhi Model' of Aam Aadmi Party, accusing the ministers of corruption, and stated that AAP has more ministers in jail compared to any other state government in the country. They also accused AAP of being the 'Tanker Mafia,' stating that the water supply in Delhi is the most expensive in India. The BJP also mentioned the landfill in Ghazipur, claiming that it has become the country's biggest landfill. The politics in the national capital has heated up ahead of the Delhi Assembly Elections due in February next year, with BJP, AAP and Congress, all coming out heavily against each other. After winning a historic 67 out of 70 seats in 2015, AAP again won 62 seats in 2020. BJP took its tally to eight from three, while Congress failed to open its account for second consecutive time. Earlier on Monday, after meeting with Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena over Anganwadi and Asha workers, Bharatiya Janata Party MP Bansuri Swaraj slammed the Delhi government and called it "shameful" that the Anganwadi workers have not been paid for seven months and that the stipend of the Asha workers has not been increased. "It is very shameful that the AAP government of Delhi has not given salaries to the Anganwadi workers for the last seven months. Asha workers are working on a salary of Rs 3,000, and their stipend has not been increased. Their stipend must be increased after every three years. The law mandates it. This AAP government is not paying attention to what they have been saying. I met with Delhi LG regarding this, and I am happy that he has assured me that he will give instructions to Delhi CM regarding this issue..." said the BJP MP. Meanwhile, the Delhi Lieutenant Governor advised the AAP government to increase the stipend paid to ASHA workers in Delhi from the existing Rs 3,000 per month to Rs 9,000, noting that their last stipend increase was in 2018, even though revisions were supposed to occur every three years, according to a press release from the LG's office. He has also requested the immediate release of salaries for Anganwadi supervisors, the release added. (ANI) An elephant calf that got separated from its mother in the Varapalayam area, was rescued by the forest department staff in Coimbatore and has found itself a new home at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp. As per the instructions of the Tamil Nadu Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, the elephant, only a few months old, was taken to the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve of Nilgiris district. The forest department team was trying to reunite the calf with its mother. They had known for a few days that it was wandering around in the Varapalayam area near Thudiyalur. After it was confirmed that the mother elephant had died, the forest department was trying to reunite it with the other elephant herd for a week. Considering the physical condition of the baby, the Tamil Nadu Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Wildlife Conservation Officer ordered it to be kept at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp for care. Following this, the calf was brought to the Theppakadu Elephant Breeding Camp by a vehicle from Coimbatore, where it was examined by forest veterinarians. The forest department offered 'pooja' to the elephant and decided to keep it at the camp and take care of it with the help of Adivasi herders. (ANI Conveying best wishes for the New Year, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said that in the year 2024, a grand temple of Lord Ram Lalla was built in Ayodhya and the whole world witnessed Sanatan's pennant waving. He further invited all the Sanatan devotees to visit the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025. "I convey my best wishes to the people of Uttar Pradesh for the year 2025. In 2024, a grand temple of Lord Ram Lalla was built in Ayodhya. The whole world saw Sanatan's pennant waving. I urge all those who believe in Sanatan Dharma to take a bath in Mahakumbh at the beginning of 2025. The government has made all the necessary arrangements," said Pathak. Meanwhile, BJP MP Dinesh Sharma has praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for boosting economic growth through religious tourism ahead of the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, calling it an 'unprecedented' effort that deserves recognition. Responding to Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav's statement about the alleged lack of preparedness for the Kumbh, the BJP MP told ANI, "...The last Kumbh Mela held under the leadership of CM Yogi was hailed worldwide. This time, around 40 crore people are expected to visit... After the Kumbh, don't call him 'Yogi Baba', but call him 'Arth Prabandhan Baba' (Economic Management Baba). He is improving the economy through promoting religious tourism... Such work is unprecedented and must be praised..." The Mahakumbh held once every 12 years, is scheduled to begin on January 13 and conclude on February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj. The main bathing festivals, known as the "Shahi Snan" (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). The Maha Kumbh 2025 will showcase a vibrant display of India's cultural diversity from January 10 to February 24. The Uttar Pradesh Culture Department is finalising preparations to present the rich folk arts of India during this period, a press release stated. The Culture Department will set up 20 small stages at key locations across Prayagraj, allowing tourists, devotees, and locals to experience the country's diverse cultural heritage over 45 days. Folk dance forms from various states across India will be performed on these stages. (ANI) In a decisive action against the illicit trade of spurious drugs, a joint investigation was conducted by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), East Zone, and the Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal, at a wholesale premises in Kolkata, according to an official press release from the Ministry of Health. The raid was carried out at M/s Care and Cure For You in Kolkata, and resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other drugs suspected to be spurious. The total market value of the drugs seized is estimated at approximately Rs. 6.60 crores. As per the release, the drugs, labelled as being manufactured in various countries including Ireland, Turkey, the USA, and Bangladesh, were found without any supporting documents to prove their legitimate importation into India. In the absence of such documentation, these drugs are deemed to be spurious. The investigating team also discovered several empty packing materials, further raising concerns over the authenticity of the seized products. To ensure proper investigation, samples of the drugs have been sent for quality testing. The remaining seized quantity is being kept in safe custody by the CDSCO. The investigation has led to the arrest of the accused, a woman identified as the proprietor of the wholesale firm, who was taken into custody by the Drugs Inspector of CDSCO, East Zone. The court has granted judicial custody of the accused for 14 days and permitted further interrogation. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing. Meanwhile, on Saturday the Special task force of the West Bengal Police arrested two persons namely Sajibul Islam, 24 and Mustakim Mondal,26 both of Nowda PS, Murshidabad for their involvement in terrorist activities. A police case has been started against them at Nowda Thana, said STF Kolkata. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gaurav Bhatia on Tuesday launched a scathing attack against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over a video showcasing children supporting AAP for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections posted on the social media platform X and called it a violation of the Juvenile Justice Act 2015 and, the guidelines of the Election Commission of India. He said that AAP has used children for dirty politics. "If anyone has learnt to use the children of Delhi for dirty politics, then it is Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Atishi Marlena. Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi Marlena have pushed our innocent children into politics by uploading their videos. This is a violation of the Juvenile Justice Act 2015 and secondly, the guidelines of the Election Commission of India state that there should be no statements of children, there should be no presence of them, and there should be no such activities... This 'X' post should be removed immediately but Arvind Kejriwal has still not removed this post..." said the BJP leader. Notably, a video was posted by Chief Minister Atishi on X on December 29. The video showed children saying "Abki Baar Kejriwal," which was later reposted by former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal. Meanwhile, the Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party came out heavily against the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi by putting up posters outside the BJP Delhi office targeting the 10-year rule of AAP. In their posters, the BJP called the AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and other senior leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendra Jain as "Bhrashtaachaar Ke Tees Maar Khaan" (Master of Corruption). The BJP in their poster accused Kejriwal of making huge amounts of money through the alleged liquor scam by allegedly increasing the margin of liquor contractors from 5 percent to 125 percent. The BJP also slammed Manish Sisodia, stating that he, being the education minister, went to jail in the 'liquor scam' while the education minister. BJP also accused him of implementing the liquor policy by holding secret meetings with industrialists. The assembly elections in Delhi are likely to be held in February 2025; however, the Election Commission of India is yet to announce the dates. (ANI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday condemned the recent remarks made by Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, who referred to Kerala as "Mini Pakistan." Vijayan called the remark "deeply provocative and deplorable," adding that it highlighted the approach of the "Sangh Parivar" towards the state. Vijayan accused the Sangh Parivar of attempting to marginalise and isolate regions where they face challenges in gaining influence, using hate campaigns and divisive narratives as a tool. "The statement by Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, labelling Kerala as "Mini Pakistan," is deeply provocative and deplorable. It reflects the fundamental approach of the Sangh Parivar towards Kerala. The Sangh Parivar believes they can marginalise and isolate regions where they struggle to establish influence through hate campaigns and divisive narratives. Rane''s statement is a direct example of this strategy," the statement read. The Kerala CM further took a jibe at the central government for not addressing the minister''s remarks, labelling them a violation of constitutional values and the minister''s oath of office. He further noted that such a minister who makes such comments was not unfit to hold a ministerial office. "A minister who makes such hate-filled remarks is unfit to hold office. It is astonishing that the leadership of the ruling party at the centre has chosen not to react to this blatant violation of constitutional values and the minister''s oath of office," he added. Earlier on Monday, in a controversial remark, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane compared Kerala to "Mini-Pakistan" and stated that the Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi were elected as members of Parliament for precisely this reason. "Kerala is mini Pakistan; that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister are elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. This is the truth; you can ask. They have become MPs after taking terrorists with them," Rane said while addressing a rally in Purandar Taluka of Pune district. Notably, following the row that erupted after his remark from opposition leaders, Rane clarified that Kerala was very much part of India, saying he was merely comparing the situation in Kerala and Pakistan. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party leader Shehzad Poonawalla on Tuesday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party's National Convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, and his party, calling them the "biggest fraud." Poonawalla's comments came in response to the Delhi government's Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, which aims to provide financial support to priests and granthis. Poonawalla pointed out that Delhi government's RTI records showed that AAP had failed to fulfil its promises of wages to maulvis and imams since January 2021 and May 2022 and accused the AAP of exploiting its own voter base and said that the party had never addressed the needs of granthis and pujaris. "Nobody is a bigger fraud than Arvind Kejriwal and AAP... Delhi government's RTI shows that AAP has not fulfilled the promise of wages to maulvis and imams since January 2021 and May 2022... AAP loots their own vote bank and has never mentioned granthis and pujaris once," the BJP leader said. Poonawalla questioned why AAP had not implemented such policies already, asking why the party waited until elections were near and urged the government to clear any backlogs as they may not remain in power much longer. "AAP is in power currently; why not implement these policies already? Why wait for the elections?... They should clear all backlogs because they may not be in power soon," he added. Meanwhile, Kejriwal, along with his wife Sunita Kejriwal, launched the scheme from the Margahat Baba Temple in Kashmiri Gate. Under the scheme, the priests of temples and the 'granthis' of the Gurudwara in Delhi will receive an honorarium of about Rs 18,000 per month. Additionally, Poonawalla spoke about Delhi's Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's letter to Delhi CM Atishi, in which Saxena expressed concerns over Kejriwal's comments calling Atishi a "temporary Chief Minister." Poonawalla stated that Kejriwal's actions were disrespectful to the position of Chief Minister, the constitutional process, and the office of the Lieutenant Governor. "LG has expressed in the letter that it's upsetting that Arvind Kejriwal, who is just a common MLA, calls CM Atishi a temporary proxy CM. This is not just disrespect of the CM post but also the constitutional process, the President, and the Dy Governor," Poonawalla said. Earlier, the Delhi Lieutenant Governor wrote a letter to Chief Minister Atishi and expressed his disapproval of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal referring to her as a "temporary Chief Minister." "I found this very objectionable, and I was hurt by it. It was not only an insult to you, but also to your appointee, the President of India, and to me as her representative... As a Lieutenant Governor, I am concerned about this level of public discourse, and at the same time, I am hurt by the conversation of presenting the full-time Chief Minister of my government as a temporary Chief Minister," the letter read. In the letter he criticised Kejriwal's remark as an affront to "constitutional values and the dignity of the office. (ANI) BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Tuesday slammed the Congress leader and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his visit to Vietnam during a period of national mourning after the demise of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, stating that for Gandhi the term LoP means "Leader of Partying." Poonawalla accused Gandhi of prioritising a vacation while the country mourned, pointing out that the Congress leader's actions were disrespectful, especially given his public admiration for former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, calling him a "father figure." "The country is in mourning, and the LoP is partying. For him, LoP means Leader of Partying. Vacationing is more important for him... especially when he calls Dr Manmohan Singh a father figure," Ponnawalla said. Congress leader Manickam Tagore had defended his party leader saying that these were just diversion tactics from the BJP. "When will the Sanghis stop this 'Take Diversion' politics? The way Modi denied Dr. Saheb a place for cremation on the Yamuna banks and how his ministers cornered Dr. Saheb's family is shameful. If Mr Gandhi travel privately, why does it bother you?," he said. Meanwhile, Shehzad Poonawala further criticised the Gandhi family for being absent during Dr. Singh's 'asthi visarjan,' alleging that the family's absence was due to the lack of media presence at the event. "His whole family was absent during Dr Manmohan's asthi visarjan because no cameras were present there," he added. Poonawalla said that the Congress party has "abused and insulted" Dr Singh. "While the country is mourning former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's demise, Rahul Gandhi has flown abroad to ring in the New Year even as the nation observes seven days of mourning. Congress doesn't care for Dr Manmohan Singh. They abused and insulted him during his lifetime. They continue to do so now. Yesterday nobody went to collect his ashes. Congress even denied the Bharat Ratna to Dr Manmohan Singh as per the latest disclosures. This is their true face," Poonawalla wrote on X. Dr Singh passed away at the age of 92 due to age-related medical issues in Delhi on December 26. On Saturday, Singh was cremated with full state honours at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, and government dignitaries. (ANI) Karnataka Minister and Congress leader Priyank Kharge on Tuesday denied allegations levelled by the BJP in connection with the suicide of a contractor in the state and said that the BJP is targeting him because he is against their ideology. Speaking to ANI, he said that the BJP has failed to prove any link of the suicide with the government. "BJP can do all it can, but they are still not able to tell the people of Karnataka how this suicide is linked to either the government or to me. They are here to establish their leadership. BJP is now a faction-ridden party in Karnataka. There is a tussle for leadership going on. Each one is trying to ensure one-upmanship shows within their leadership. Have they been able to give one document, one single paper, one shred of evidence against what is happening? They are just trying to politicise a death as usual," he said. "BJP people target me because I am against their ideology. I am against RSS and Manusmriti, and I am vocal about it because we follow the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution, which they are allergic to. So quite naturally they will try to make a mountain out of a molehill. If the BJP really is interested in getting justice for any of the victims, first, Vijayendra should start by resigning for his father's POCSO case," he added. The development came after Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra's remarks that the Bidar contractor's alleged suicide case should be handed over to the CBI and Priyanka Kharge should resign. Vijayendra Yediyurappa has attacked the Congress, alleging that Sachin, a contractor from Bidar, died by suicide due to harassment and threats from Priyank Kharge's close aide Raju Kapanur. He claimed that Sachin left behind a detailed letter highlighting his ordeal. Earlier, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar rejected BJP's demand for the resignation of state minister Priyank Kharge and said party leaders "know his integrity.". "We know the integrity of Priyank Kharge; the investigation is going on. No question of anyone resigning. Priyank Kharge is our Dalit leader. It is not possible (to hand over the case to CBI). We know how CBI works. Our police and officials are capable of doing the investigation," Shivakumar said. (ANI) BJP leader Nitesh Rane's controversial remark calling Kerala a "mini Pakistan" sparked sharp criticism on Sunday, with NCP-SCP leader Clyde Crasto urging the BJP to reign in its members and apologise, arguing such statements harm social harmony and insult the southern state. Speaking to ANI, Clyde Crasto said, "Nitesh Rane needs to have control over what he says. BJP should control what he says because these statements can disturb the peace. BJP needs to tell whether they endorse Nitesh Rane's statement. If not, then they should apologise to the people. Calling Kerala a mini Pakistan is an insult to that state.' Earlier today, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the recent remarks made by Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, who referred to Kerala as "Mini Pakistan." Vijayan called the remark "deeply provocative and deplorable," adding that it highlighted the approach of the "Sangh Parivar" towards the state. Vijayan accused the Sangh Parivar of attempting to marginalise and isolate regions where they face challenges in gaining influence, using hate campaigns and divisive narratives as a tool. The Kerala CM further took a jibe at the central government for not addressing the minister's remarks, labelling them a violation of constitutional values and the minister's oath of office. He further noted that such a minister who makes such comments was not unfit to hold a ministerial office. "A minister who makes such hate-filled remarks is unfit to hold office. Astonishingly, the leadership of the ruling party at the centre has chosen not to react to this blatant violation of constitutional values and the minister's oath of office," he added. Earlier on Monday, in a controversial remark, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane compared Kerala to "Mini-Pakistan" and stated that the Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi were elected as members of Parliament for precisely this reason. "Kerala is mini Pakistan; that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister are elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. This is the truth; you can ask. They have become MPs after taking terrorists with them," Rane said while addressing a rally in Purandar Taluka of Pune district. Notably, following the row that erupted after his remark from opposition leaders, Rane clarified that Kerala was very much part of India, saying he was merely comparing the situation in Kerala and Pakistan. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials to ensure smooth traffic flow and take special care of the security component in managing the traffic system of the state. These directions from the Chief Minister come given the increase in the number of tourists amid New Year's festivities. During a high-level meeting at his official residence, Dhami told the officials to ensure that tourists don't face any inconvenience on the New Year. The Chief Minister directed the officials to increase the number of police and traffic personnel in the busiest areas if required. He said that hospitals must be on alert mode in case of any untoward incident. Dhami also directed the officials to take strict action against those violating traffic rules. Dhami on Tuesday outlined all of the practical actions that should be implemented to mitigate the effects of the cold wave in the state. According to an official release, all required amenities would be made available to individuals living in rain shelters in districts. Dhami gave instructions to the officials during the review of the work being done by the departments to help the state's residents during the cold wave in the Secretariat. "Senior officers of the government and district magistrate and superintendent of police in the districts should inspect the arrangements of rain shelters from time to time. Given the cold wave, blankets, gloves, socks and other essential items should be made available to the needy. People should also be informed through various means about the places where arrangements for bonfires have been made at night in the districts," the official release said. CM Dhami said," It should be ensured that the roads are not obstructed for long due to snowfall; in the areas where there is more snowfall, proper management of the necessary resources should be done to remove snow from the roads." The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) on Sunday issued precautionary guidelines to the District Magistrate of Chamoli, urging authorities to take necessary measures for avalanches. Earlier, the high-altitude areas of Uttarkashi district received snowfall, while the lower areas witnessed light rains on Saturday. Popular locations such as Gangotri, Yamunotri, and other nearby mountain villages, are experiencing significant snowfall, which has resulted in snow accumulation across the region. Despite the heavy snowfall, the district administration, with the help of machines and workers, has managed to keep most roads open and traffic moving smoothly. Travelers are being advised to take precautions, including using 4X4 vehicles and installing anti-skid chains, to navigate safely through snow-covered roads. (ANI) Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan has said that the New Year 2025 was the year to commit to contributing towards 'Viksit Bharat' which means a developed, progressive, and inclusive India. He said that Maharashtra had an important role to play in this mission. "As we welcome the new year, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of Maharashtra and all fellow countrymen. May this year bring happiness, good health, and prosperity to all," Governor Radhakrishnan said in a message. While conveying his greetings and good wishes to the people on the occasion of the New Year, Radhakrishnan said that Maharashtra holds an important role in the 'Viksit Bharat' mission. "Let us in this year commit ourselves to contributing toward the goal of Viksit Bharat - a developed, progressive, and inclusive India. As the most progressive State with a rich culture, spirit of enterprise and values, Maharashtra holds an important role in this mission," he said. The Governor further said that there needs to be motivation to eliminate social inequality that persists in the society and aim for an egalitarian society. "This is the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule, Savitribai Phule, Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar and many others. We must continue to strive to eliminate social inequality and create an egalitarian society. Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year," he said. Earlier on Friday, Governor Radhakrishnan had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister's Office shared the meeting on X, stating, "Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, met PM Narendra Modi." After the meeting, Governor Radhakrishnan expressed his delight in a post on X. "Delighted to meet our beloved People's leader our most respected Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi today at New Delhi," he wrote. (ANI) Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the successful launch of the SpaDeX Mission, saying that ISRO had created history in the world of space and this mission will prove to be a milestone for the establishment of the Indian Space Station and the success of Chandrayaan-4. Congress MP stated following this mission, India has become the fourth country in the world with space docking technology, adding that the dream that India had seen six decades ago is coming true today. In a social media post on X, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wrote, "By successfully launching Mission Spadex, ISRO has created history in the world of space. This mission will prove to be a milestone for the establishment of the Indian Space Station and the success of Chandrayaan-4. With this, India has become the fourth country in the world with space docking technology. The dream that India had seen six decades ago is coming true today. Hearty congratulations to all the scientists, engineers and people of the country." https://x.com/priyankagandhi/status/1873991747925401652 On Monday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. ISRO's year-end mission is historic as it seeks the rare feat of docking or merging or joining together two satellites in space. The project has been named "Space Docking Experiment" (SpaDeX). The first stage performance was normal. SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV. The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a low-Earth circular orbit. The technological challenge has been mastered only by a few countries and the indigenous technology used for this mission is called the "Bharatiya Docking System". Docking technology is key for long-term missions like "Chandrayaan-4" and the planned Indian space station. It is also crucial for the eventual manned "Gaganyaan" mission. (ANI) BJP leader RP Singh on Tuesday took a dig at the former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the "Sheesh Mahal" controversy by displaying a "gold-plated" toilet. Singh claimed that the Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor had installed 12 such toilets during the renovation of the CM's residence, with each toilet valued at Rs 1.44 crore as part of the "Sheesh Mahal" project, which is reportedly worth Rs 56 crores. "This is a gold-plated toilet. The Chief Minister had installed 12 such toilets in his house. Toilets worth Rs 1.44 crore were installed in the 'Sheeshmahal' worth Rs 56 crores," Singh said. He questioned the allocation of funds and raised concerns about the condition of toilets in Delhi and stated that political parties offer incentives to the public in exchange for votes, but such projects are an example of misuse of resources. He promised that, if elected, the BJP would focus on building better facilities for the public, including toilets and bathrooms, and also accused the AAP government of exploiting the people in the name of "revdis" (freebies). "We are telling people that they take your votes by giving you 'revdis' and then they do this. We have seen the condition of the toilets here... We are saying that when our government comes, we will build good toilets and bathrooms. Delhi is being looted in the name of 'revdis,'" Singh added. Earlier, lashing out at Arvind Kejriwal BJP leader Vijay Goel said that the the upcoming Delhi assembly elections must be based on issues like dirty tap water, Yamuna pollution, etc. "The announcements by Arvind Kejriwal are electoral announcements... The elections should be based on dirty tap water, Yamuna pollution, Delhi pollution, corruption... Arvind Kejriwal did not take any steps in the past 10 years and is now making new announcements each day... The one who doesn't work for 10 years only wants to win elections by announcement of freebies," said BJP leader Vijay Goel. The 'Sheesh Mahal' controversy centres around allegations that Arvind Kejriwal spent crores of rupees renovating his official residence during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period when many public development projects were stalled. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Kejriwal, who resigned as chief minister in September this year, vacated the Flagstaff Road bungalow in Civil Lines on October 4. (ANI) Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Jitendra Singh on Tuesday said that the SpaDeX mission is named as "Bharatiya Docking Technology" because it is purely an indigenous mission and India is carrying out first such experiment related to docking technology. The Union MoS further stated that SpaDeX's mission very much aligns with Prime Minister Modi's vision of "Aatmanirbhar Bharat". Addressing a press conference, Singh said, "The launch of the SpaDeX mission is one of the first experiments undertaken by India as far as the docking technology is concerned. It is a purely indigenous technology and that's why it's been appropriately named Bharatiya Docking Technology. That is very much in keeping with PM Modi's mantra for Aatmanirbhar Bharat..." As the year 2024 is marking its end, Jitendra Singh said that the year 2024 has been a remarkable journey for the Indian Space sector. Citing the example of India's first Solar Mission, Singh stated that the ADITYA mission, being a very ambitious mission for the Indian Space sector, entered into L1 point in January 2024, just three months after its launch. Additionally, India observed its first-ever National Space Day within the first three months of the Modi government's third term. "The year 2024 began by making news about space. It was the ADITYA, the first solar mission by India, a very ambitious mission which had entered into L1 point. It was launched 3 months earlier, but it got to the destination in the month of January. The first-ever National Space Day was observed in the first 3 months after the Modi government 3.0 took over.... we are now also assisting other agencies to accomplish their missions," Singh stated. The Union MoS further mentioned that several trials of Mission Gaganyaan have already been conducted in 2024 with the final dress rehearsal featuring a female robot set to take place next year. Mission Gaganyaan is ISRO's ambitious project which will be India's first human-manned space flight carrying Indian astronauts into space. Highlighting the surging public interest in space programs, Singh stated that enthusiasm has not been limited to space exploration alone but has sparked curiosity and awareness in various scientific fields, including biotechnology, basic sciences, cutting-edge technologies and the CSI activities. In the press conference, Singh said, "In between so many trials have happened for the Gaganyan which is in the pipeline, the first indigenous mission of course. Of course the first Indian to go up was Rakesh Sharma which happened in the early 1980s, but that was the Soviet mission. The trials are almost now through; we're waiting for the dress rehearsal with a female robot which will happen sometime next year. And the huge-huge-huge amount of public interest which has been generated by these space achievements has actually created awareness as well as enthusiasm among the common citizens of India in various scientific pursuits across the lines, not only confined to space whether it's biotechnology or, the basic sciences, cutting edge technologies or it is the CSI activities. Space has actually opened up possibly that inertia which prevented the space activities to come so openly in the public..." On Monday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a historic feat by launching PSLV-C60 with SpaDeX and innovative payloads. SpaDeX mission is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for the demonstration of in-space docking using two small spacecraft launched by PSLV. The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a Low-Earth circular orbit. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president and Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday paid homage to former Haryana Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala and said that the entire state and the country were saddened by his demise. "This is the end of an era in politics," Nadda said while addressing the gathering in a condolence program for the late Chautala. Nadda further said that Chautala always raised his voice for the people including the middle class, labour class, farmers or any other section of society. As the Chief Minister of Haryana, he contributed a lot to the state's development, he added. "His demise is heartbreaking for all of us. First of all, I want to pray his soul gets peace. May the god give strength to the family to get through this difficult time. His demise doesn't only affect his family or the community, but the entire Haryana and the country is saddened by his demise. This is the end of an era in politics. I got the opportunity to work with him. He was a cheerful person and a senior leader. He was always ready to raise his voice for the people - be it for the middle class, labour class, farmers or any other section of the society," Nadda said. "He gave everything for Haryana's development as the Chief Minister. He contributed a lot towards making Haryana a Viksit state...He fearlessly raised the voice and issues of the people..." he added. Nadda was accompanied by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini who also paid tributes to former Haryana CM Chautala. OP Chautala passed away on December 20 at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. He was accorded state honour at the Tejakhera farmhouse on December 21. People also paid their last respects to former Haryana CM at the Tejakhera farmhouse. The Haryana government had declared a holiday for all schools in the state today following the demise of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) supremo. Earlier, the Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini described INLD leader Prakash Chautala as a visionary leader and stated that he will always be remembered for his contribution to the politics of the state. Paying his tribute, CM Saini said, "I express my deep condolences on the demise of senior leader Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala ji. With his demise, a chapter of Haryana politics has come to an end. His contribution to Haryana politics will always be remembered. Chautala ji's personality was a symbol of simplicity and struggle." (ANI) BJP Lok Sabha MP Bansuri Swaraj on Tuesday hit out at former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' under which priests of temples and the 'granthis' of the Gurudwara will receive an honorarium of about Rs 18,000 per month, and said that the scheme is intended to appease the voters ahead of upcoming assembly polls. Addressing a press conference, Swaraj said that Arvind Kejriwal has started a new kind of appeasement politics called 'Arvind's appeasement.'. She further asked the Delhi government to implement the scheme and not wait for the elections to over. "We heard a lot about election slogans but Arvind Kejriwal has brought a new wind of election gimmicks... Kejriwal's government has not paid salaries to Imams and Maulvis for 17 months... He did not solve the problems of Imams and Maulvis and started a new type of appeasement politics in which he said that he would pay salaries to priests and granthis. There is no election model code of conduct now, so why are you waiting for the elections? For one decade they did not respect 'Pujaris,' religious places, or 'Granthis,' and now when the election is closer, they are trying to appease them for votes," she said. Hitting out on AAP's promised 'Mahila Sanman Yojna,' she said, "AAP had promised Mahila Sanman Yojna-like schemes in Punjab, but the sisters of Punjab have not gotten anything in these years." "They announced 'Sanjeevani' Yojna, after which government officials released a notification that there is no such yojna existing," she added. "How will you answer those who have not got their honorarium from the last 17 months? You have excluded Christian priests. When will you answer them?" she asked. Taking a dig at the AAP welfare scheme announced in the recent time ahead of polls, she said, "Vidyalaya ka kara vada aur madralay ka jaal bichaya chunao nikat aaya toh Kejriwal ji ko devalaya yaad aaya." Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday launched the registration for Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana. He visited the Shri Marghat Wale Baba Mandir at Kashmere Gate along with his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, to start the registration for the scheme. This comes after the former Chief Minister of Delhi on Monday announced 'Pujari, Granthi Samman Yojana,' under which he stated that the priests of temples and the 'granthis' of the Gurudwara would receive an honorarium of about Rs 18,000 per month. He further stated that this scheme would be implemented once the AAP from the government wins in the upcoming polls in the national capital. "We know how pujaris serve us. Be it the birthday of our kid or the death of a loved one, they have always connected us with God. But they never gave attention to their own families, and neither did we pay enough attention to them. This is happening for the first time in the country. We have done many works in the national capital that happened for the very first time. We improved schools and hospitals and made bus travel for women. I just hope that the BJP and the Congress governments will learn from this and will implement such schemes in the state run by them," he added. (ANI) Amid a row erupted over Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi's visit to Vietnam, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi has gone for a pre-planned event. He further stated that the crores of people saw the tears in Rahul Gandhi's eyes on the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Speaking to ANI, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari said, "...Rahul Gandhi has gone for a pre-planned event. Crores of people saw the tears in his eyes on the demise of Dr Manmohan Singh..." Earlier today, BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla slammed the Congress leader and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his visit to Vietnam during a period of national mourning after the demise of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, stating that for Gandhi the term LoP means "Leader of Partying." Poonawalla accused Gandhi of prioritising a vacation while the country mourned, pointing out that the Congress leader's actions were disrespectful, especially given his public admiration for former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, calling him a "father figure." "The country is in mourning, and the LoP is partying. For him, LoP means Leader of Partying. Vacationing is more important for him... especially when he calls Dr Manmohan Singh a father figure," Ponnawalla said. Congress leader Manickam Tagore had defended his party leader saying that these were just diversion tactics from the BJP. "When will the Sanghis stop this 'Take Diversion' politics? The way Modi denied Dr. Saheb a place for cremation on the Yamuna banks and how his ministers cornered Dr. Saheb's family is shameful. If Mr Gandhi travel privately, why does it bother you?," he said. On Monday, BJP MLA Alleti Maheshwar Reddy attacked Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for 'Vietnam trip' to celebrate the "English New Year" when the entire nation is mourning former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's demise. Singh passed away at the age of 92 due to age-related medical issues in Delhi on December 26. On Saturday, Singh was cremated with full state honours at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, and government dignitaries. As the national capital gears up to welcome the New Year 2025, Delhi Police has outlined comprehensive security arrangements to ensure a safe celebration. Famous spots such as Hauz Khas, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar are expected to see large crowds for the festivities. Speaking to ANI, DCP South West Surendra Chaudhary said, "We have briefed restaurant owners and staff about the protocols. In collaboration with the traffic police, we have deployed a facial recognition system (FRS) van to identify any people with criminal backgrounds who may visit the area." "We have installed 60 cameras for monitoring, and our SHO and senior officials will be present. Through loudspeakers, we will also address the gathering if necessary," Choudhary added. Police have set up 27 checkpoints with personnel equipped with breath analyzers to check for drunk driving and promote road safety. In addition, 14 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and 16 Police Control Room (PCR) vans have been stationed at strategic locations for rapid response. According to officials, special attention is being given to 35 celebration venues and 15 popular spots, including malls, motels, and cinema halls, which will be under strict surveillance. Security personnel have been deployed at 21 bus stops, 60 motorcycle patrols are monitoring vulnerable routes, and a high-visibility police presence will be maintained in eight prominent hotels. Hauz Khas Village, a popular party destination, will see increased security to ensure safety. The police force deployed for the occasion includes seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 38 Inspectors, 329 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, along with 161 female officers. Regular beat and vehicle patrols will bolster visibility and quick response mechanisms. Authorities have appealed to residents to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with deployed personnel. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to nearby officers or through the helpline number 112. New Year is a festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in urban areas. However, the occasion often sees a rise in alcohol consumption, which sometimes leads to an increase in cases of alcohol smuggling. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday highlighted the immense cultural and spiritual significance of the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, noting that the event has taken its shape and is expected to be an even grander spectacle than previous editions. "The Maha Kumbh Mela has taken its own shape. The program is progressing on a war footing and people are enthusiastic. This auspicious moment of Maha Kumbh is coming after 144 years and the country and the world want to be a witness to this great gathering," said Chief Minister Yogi. The Maha Kumbh Mela will be held in Prayagraj (Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Speaking to ANI, CM Yogi said, "This time, in view of the Maha Kumbh, 30 pontoon bridges are being built. Out of which 28 have been completed. 2 will be ready within the next 3-4 days. A temporary ghat of 12 km is being prepared here. More than 7000 organizations have come so far. The Mela Authority has arranged for more than one and a half lakh tents here and this program is progressing on a war footing and people are enthusiastic." "The country and the world are eager to come to Prayagraj Kumbh. Everyone wants to see this biggest spiritual and religious gathering of Uttar Pradesh and the country with their own eyes. The Maha Kumbh Mela has taken its own shape. The program is progressing on a war footing and people are enthusiastic. This auspicious moment of Maha Kumbh is coming after 144 years and the country and the world want to be a witness to this great gathering," said CM Yogi. Earlier in the day Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at Prayagraj's Lete Hanuman Mandir. The preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 have been ramped up as the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Prayagraj on Tuesday for the fifth time in December to review the preparations for the upcoming event. During his visit, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the Bio-CNG plant built in the Naini area of the city. The Chief Minister also inspected the key locations such as the Sangam Erawat Ghat, Sangam Noj Ghat, and the newly constructed steel bridge parallel to the Ganga Setu. In view of the upcoming Mahakumbh event, CM Yogi held a review meeting at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) Auditorium in the Prayagraj Mela Authority to review the preparations for the event.Meanwhile, the Chief Minister, during his visit to Prayagraj would inspect the steel bridge built parallel to the Ganga Setu while doing a ground inspection of various routes. CM Yogi has already extended an invitation for the Mahakumbh 2025 to President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and other dignitaries to attend the event. The main bathing festival, known as the "Shahi Snan" (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). As part of the preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025, Uttar Pradesh Police will use underwater drones for enhanced security. The Maha Kumbh 2025 will showcase a vibrant display of India's cultural diversity from January 10 to February 24. The Uttar Pradesh Culture Department is finalising preparations to present the rich folk arts of India during this period, a press release stated. The Culture Department will set up 20 small stages at key locations across Prayagraj, allowing tourists, devotees, and locals to experience the country's diverse cultural heritage over 45 days. Folk dance forms from various states across India will be performed on these stages. (ANI) State Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dr Vijay Kumar Jogdande on Tuesday held a meeting with the officers of Dehradun district regarding the preparations for National Voter's Day at the Secretariat. On this occasion, he directed the District Administration and Public Works Department to conduct a site inspection at the venue and submit a report. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Kishan Negi, City Magistrate Pratyush Singh, Assistant Engineer Vinesh Verma, and other personnel from the Election Department. According to a government release, since 2011, the National Voters' Day (NVD) has been celebrated on January 25 every year to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), which was established on this day in the year 1950. The main purpose of the NVD celebration is to encourage, facilitate, and maximise voter enrolment, especially for new voters. Dedicated to the country's voters, the Day is celebrated to spread awareness among them to promote informed participation in the electoral process.NVD is celebrated at the national, state, district, constituency, and polling booth levels, which makes it one of the largest celebrations in the country. On January 25, 2025, the Election Commission of India will celebrate its 15th National Voters' Day (NVD) celebration. (ANI) Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal on Tuesday, has strongly condemned the BJP for using offensive language to target Kerala. In a post on X, Venugopal criticized BJP leaders for referring to the state as a 'Mini Pakistan', calling it an example of the party's deep-rooted animosity towards the people of Kerala. "From time to time, the BJP deploys its hate mongers to spew venom against Kerala. Using terms like 'Mini Pakistan' shows they have deep-rooted animosity for the people of Kerala," he posted on X. Venugopal emphasized that Kerala is globally recognized as a model state, consistently topping Human Development indices in education, healthcare, and overall living standards. He pointed out that Kerala has been a beacon of communal harmony, where people of all religions and sects have lived together peacefully for centuries. The Congress leader further highlighted Kerala's rich history of social reform, citing figures like Sree Narayana Guru, Chattambi Swamikal, and Mahatma Ayyankali, who advocated for inclusivity, social justice, and egalitarianism. Venugopal accused the BJP of disregarding the values promoted by these leaders in the post. Venugopal also demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi take action against BJP leader Rane for making such divisive remarks. He stated that if the PM has any shame, he should immediately sack Rane. "If PM Modi has any shame about Mr Rane's statements, he should sack him immediately. The people of Kerala have rejected, and will never accept the BJP for this very reason - they do not understand the beauty of its harmonious living," he added in the post. Earlier on Monday, in a controversial remark, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane compared Kerala to "Mini-Pakistan" and stated that the Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi were elected as members of Parliament for precisely this reason. "Kerala is mini Pakistan; that is why Rahul Gandhi and his sister are elected from there. All terrorists vote for them. This is the truth; you can ask. They have become MPs after taking terrorists with them," Rane said while addressing a rally in Purandar Taluka of Pune district. Notably, following the row that erupted after his remark from opposition leaders, Rane clarified that Kerala was very much part of India, saying he was merely comparing the situation in Kerala and Pakistan. (ANI) The MoU focuses on providing specialized training in Indian guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), aiming to equip Coast Guard personnel with critical life-saving skills, AIIMS said in a statement on Tuesday. The MoU was signed by Surgeon Commodore Sanjay Dutta on behalf of the Indian Coast Guard and Dr Shailendra Kumar, CRTC AIIMS Coordinator. The signing ceremony, held at AIIMS New Delhi under the leadership of Director AIIMS, Prof. M Srinivas, was attended by several dignitaries, including Inspector General Jyotindra Singh, Indian Coast Guard; Surg Cmde Divya Gautam, VSM; Prof. Ganga Prasad, Head of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine, and Critical Care, AIIMS New Delhi; Prof. Rakesh Garg, Scientific Director, Indian Resuscitation Council Framework (IRCF); and Dr Amit Kumar, Assistant Professor, Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine, and Critical Care, AIIMS New Delhi. Other officials from AIIMS New Delhi and the Indian Coast Guard were also present to mark this momentous occasion. This collaboration represents a milestone in bolstering medical readiness within the Indian Coast Guard. AIIMS New Delhi will offer structured and advanced training to Coast Guard medical officers, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle medical emergencies in operationally challenging environments. During the ceremony, Surg Cmde Sanjay Dutta highlighted the critical importance of this initiative for enhancing emergency care capabilities at sea. Dr Shailendra Kumar reaffirmed AIIMS New Delhi's commitment to promoting excellence in healthcare training. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding lives through enhanced medical preparedness and collaboration. (ANI) Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and Shashi Tripathi, President of the Navy Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), interacted with the courageous crew members of Navika Sagar Parikrama II, Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa on New Year's eve. The interaction, held via video conference, celebrated their inspiring circumnavigation journey aboard the INSV Tarini, showcasing the resilience and determination of the two officers as they navigated the globe. The two officers, who are currently undertaking the historic Navika Sagar Parikrama II mission, are circumnavigating the globe aboard the Indian Navy Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. Admiral Tripathi commended the officers for their perseverance and exceptional skill as they navigate the challenging waters of the world. Lieutenant Commanders Dilna and Roopa, who have already sailed through some of the world's toughest maritime routes, expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support from their families, the Indian Navy, and the nation. The video call was not just a celebration of their achievements but also a reaffirmation of the Navy's support for its personnel, particularly its women officers, who continue to break barriers and set new milestones in the field of naval expeditions. The INSV Tarini sailed out from Fremantle, Australia on November 24 for the second leg of the NSP-II's expedition to Lyttelton, New Zealand. Tarini and her intrepid crew were seen off by an enthusiastic crowd cheering for the safe passage to Lyttelton, as per a statement by the Ministry of Defence. Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (NSP-II), which was flagged off by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on October 2, is an Indian Navy expedition undertaking a dual-handed circumnavigation of the earth by two women officers of the Navy onboard 56ft INSV Tarini. (ANI) As the city gears up for the New Year celebrations, Gurugram Police have outlined robust security measures to ensure public safety. According to officials, 22 hotspots for New Year festivities have been identified, and over 2,000 police officers have been deployed to maintain law and order across the city. "We have set up 10 parking places near the hotspots to ensure smooth movement of vehicles. Additionally, 10 inter-state barricades and 68 barricades within Gurugram have been set up for better control," Sandeep Kumar, a spokesperson with Gurugram Police said. Kumar added that the police have started conducting checks across the city to ensure a safe environment for revellers. Meanwhile, the Department of Excise and Taxation (DETC) East authorities have outlined measures to regulate the operation of bars and restaurants. "We have formed three teams in Gurgaon-East to ensure that bars and restaurants don't operate beyond the prescribed time limits and to prevent illegal sales," Amit Bhatia, a senior official with the department said. He said that nine contractors had paid approximately Rs 40-50 lakh, 25 per cent of their annual fees, to operate beyond the regular hours. Bars and restaurants that wish to remain open from midnight to 2 am must pay annual fees of Rs 20 lakh, with additional fees of Rs 5 lakh per extra hour. "Other establishments that have not made arrangements will have to close by midnight," Bhatia added. Meanwhile, Delhi Police authorities have rolled out extensive security measures to ensure public safety and maintain order. With large gatherings expected, the police have intensified vigilance, focusing on crowd management and swift response capabilities. Surendra Choudhary, IPS informed that the key security initiatives include 27 traffic checkpoints equipped with breath analyzers to ensure road safety and 57 fortified pickets monitoring vehicular movement and suspect activities. Additionally, 14 Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) and 16 Police Control Room (PCR) vans have been stationed at strategic locations for rapid response. "Special attention is being given to 35 celebration venues and 15 popular spots, including malls, motels, and cinema halls, which will be under strict surveillance. Security staff have also been deployed at 21 bus stops, on 60 motorcycles patrolling vulnerable routes, and in eight prominent hotels. Hauz Khas Village, a popular party destination, will see a high-visibility police presence to ensure safety," said an official release. In total, the police force comprises seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 38 Inspectors, and 329 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, alongside 161 female officers. Regular beat and vehicle patrols will bolster visibility and quick response mechanisms. (ANI) Ahead of the New Year's Eve celebrations, Additional Commissioner of Police-Traffic, P Viswa Prasad on Tuesday briefed about the security arrangements, saying that they will have 63 checkpoints and 8-10 officers will be deployed at each point with 3-4 alcometers. Prasad said that extra manpower has been deployed at 172 important locations to control traffic adding that no decision has been taken yet about closing flyovers. "Extra manpower has been deployed at 172 important locations to control traffic... No decision has been taken yet about closing flyovers. CP Hyderabad has directed restaurants and pubs to make parking arrangements and ensure that drunk customers do not drive," he said. Speaking to ANI, Prasad said that the police will also put up zigzag barricading to avoid overspeeding. "We will have 63 check points and 8-10 officers will be deployed at each point with 3-4 alcometers. We will put up zigzag barricading to avoid overspeeding in 57 locations identified as accident hotspots," he said. Meanwhile, to facilitate the New Year celebrations and to ensure safe travel for commuters, Hyderabad Metro Rail will operate extended hours on New Year's Eve. Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited, MD, NVS Reddy stated that the last train will leave from all terminal stations at 12:30 am and reach their respective endpoints by about 1:15 am on January 1, 2025, providing safe and convenient late-night connectivity for passengers. "This initiative underscores Hyderabad Metro's commitment to enhancing passenger convenience during special occasions," he added. People across the world are bidding farewell to an eventful 2024 and with new goals and resolutions and hopes of new beginnings and opportunities, people are ready to kickstart 2025. (ANI) The Special Judge for CBI Cases on December 30 sentenced 5 accused persons namely Falguni Ben Babubhai Patel; Kishore Kumar Purshottambhai Patel; Prashant Nangappa Patil; Amzad Ali and Shailh Zakir Hussain to 3 years' Imprisonment with a total fine of Rs 2.5 lakh in Telgi Bogus Stamp Scam, the CBI said in a press release on Tuesday. These individuals were found guilty under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), for offences of criminal conspiracy, forgery of stamps, cheating, forgery and making or possessing forged documents, etc. The case was registered by CBI on transfer of investigation of the case of CID Crime, Gandhi Nagar Zone, Gujarat. It was alleged that the accused persons (license & unlicense vendors) knowingly utilized/ sold forged stamp papers, Court fee stamps, Share transfer stamps, etc. of various denominations in the Ahmedabad and Surat area of Gujarat. The scam, which was uncovered in 2001, involved the circulation of counterfeit stamps, a significant offence that had wide-reaching consequences for both the economy and the integrity of the public administration. The fraudulent activities were discovered during a raid on stamp vendors in Surat and Ahmadabad, where authorities seized a large number of bogus stamps. 'The operation was traced to two offices operating under the names "Sadguru Services" and "Sahay Services." In this case, the CBI had charge-sheeted a total of l6 accused. Out of these, two accused persons passed away during the course of the trial, while nine others were convicted earlier. The Court vide Judgment dt. August 20, 2008, sentenced 5 accused namely, Shabbir Ahmed Sheikh, Shivaji, Khalid Ahmed, Vijay Solanki and Jacob Chako to undergo imprisonment for a term of five years and a fine of Rs 25000 each. Later, vide Judgment dated March 19, 2009 the Court had sentenced 3 accused namely, Sadiq Ibrahim Hudli & AKL Telgi to imprisonment of 7 years and fine of Rs 35000 each and accused Sidharth @ Sidhu to undergo imprisonment for 5 years and a fine of Rs 30000. Further vide judgment dated August 4, 2010, the Court had sentenced accused Raju Nayak to imprisonment for 2 years. The conviction of the accused by the Court underscores the commitment of the CBI to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law in the fight against corruption and fraudulent activities. (ANI) During the year 2024, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Telangana registered a total of 152 cases, in which 223 accused were arrested, said a press statement from ACB. Of these, 129 were trap cases involving the arrest of 200 accused (159 Government Servants); 11 Disproportionate Assets cases against Government Servants, and 12 other cases of Criminal misconduct by Government Servants in which 18 accused were arrested, added the statement. Besides, ACB conducted 11 regular enquiries into allegations of corruption. Also, 29 surprise checks were conducted on various offices and reports were submitted to Government. The ACB Telangana obtained 105 sanctions for prosecution orders from Government and filed charge sheet. ACB Telangana closely monitored prosecution of cases in court, and secured convictions in 16 cases, achieving a conviction rate of 64 per cent. ACB Telangana also finalized 26 old cases in 2024. These include 1 case in 2018, 3 cases in 2019, 5 cases each in 2020 & 2021, and 12 cases in 2022. In the 129 trap cases booked in 2024, the ACB Telangana seized a total amount of Rs 82,78,000, of which Rs 64,80,000 has been reimbursed to the complainants. Besides, properties of the accused in disproportionate assets, worth Rs 97,42,67,000 - were attached in 11 cases. During 2024, special emphasis was laid on training the ACB personnel. Basic Induction Training was conducted for 32 Officers, including 29 Police Officers, 1 PP & 2 Engineers. Besides, training was imparted on improving drafting skills, investigation into tracing financial transactions, digital footprints of financial transactions, legal position in trap and DA cases, arrests, bail, anticipatory bail, quash of cases etc, including landmark judgements of Hon'ble Supreme Court and High Courts, having impact on investigation into cases involving corruption by government servants. The Anti-Corruption Bureau observed 'Anti-Corruption Week' from 03.12.2024 to 09.12.2024. During this period, various awareness activities and programmes were conducted. Pamphlets / Posters were released in all districts and it was emphasised to display the citizen's charter in all government offices. Further, essay writing competitions were held for the students and prizes were distributed. Several rallies were conducted in various districts involving the public. The complaints in the convicted cases were also felicitated and certificates were given to them. (ANI) Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Tuesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi after Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh apologised for the ongoing 'crisis' in the state, which erupted since May 2023. Speaking to ANI, the Congress leader questioned why the PM has not spoken on the Manipur issue yet. "It has taken 19 months for the CM to say what he has said today, and it is not enough. The real issue is not what the CM says or does not say. The real issue is why, for 19 months, the PM has not spoken; he has travelled all over the country, but he has not found time to go to Manipur. The issue is not what this puppet CM says or does not say; the issue is why the PM is refusing to visit the state of Manipur and refusing to reach out to different communities of Manipur," the Congress leader said. He further termed it as a failure of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, calling their refusal to go to Manipur an insult to the people. "It is the failure of the PM and the man to whom he has outsourced Manipur, the Union Home Minister. The PM's continued refusal to go to Manipur is an insult to the people of Manipur," he added. "The Prime Minister should go to Manipur and say the same thing that the CM said today. The people of Manipur are asking why the PM is neglecting us," Ramesh said. Earlier today, apologising" for the ongoing crisis in the state in which around 200 people have died and many left their homes, Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday asked people to "forget the past" and start a new life for peaceful and prosperous Manipur. Reflecting on the crisis, the Manipur CM said, "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret, and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what is happening till today, since last May 3. "Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I really feel regret. I would like to apologise," he added. "Now, I hope after seeing the last 3-4 months' progress towards peace, I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state. I want to appeal to all the communities of the state that whatever happened has happened. We now have to forget past mistakes and have to start a new life. A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur--we should all live together," he said. "Till now, altogether roughly 200 people have died, and around 12,247 FIRs were registered, and 625 accused were arrested, and around 5,600 arms and weapons were included, and around 35,000 ammunitions were recovered. Good progress is there in tackling the issues. The central government has provided enough security personnel and enough funds to help the displaced families and enough funds to construct new houses for the displaced persons," the Manipur CM stated. Notably, the violence in Manipur between the Meitei and the Kuki communities erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3, 2023, following the Manipur High Court order directing the state to consider the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list. (ANI) Former Telangana Governor and BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan held a meeting with BJP President JP Nadda regarding the Anna University sexual assault case on Tuesday. Speaking to ANI, Tamilisai Soundararajan launched a scathing attack on the DMK, calling them "political opportunists" for allegedly brushing aside atrocities and hiding the truth. "DMK is only a political opportunist. Despite all these atrocities, they are brushing everything aside and just hiding the truth." She alleged that freedom of expression is being suppressed in Tamil Nadu, citing her own experience of being arrested for leading an agitation. Soundararajan claimed she was detained for 8-9 hours and expressed satisfaction that the National Women's Commission conducted an inquiry into the matter. "We were the first. I was the first person to go on agitation, and I got arrested. BJP was not allowed to assemble, and we were taken into police custody. We were there for almost 8 to 9 hours. In Tamil Nadu, they are not even allowing us to gather or raise our voices, though freedom of expression is crushed. I am really satisfied that the National Women's Commission came and conducted the inquiry. Justice should be rendered to the girl," she said. Soundararajan slammed the Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister for downplaying the incident, saying his comments were "painful" for women and that leaking the FIR was unacceptable. "The FIR was leaked, and the local Higher Education Minister was saying this is an isolated incident. Why are you making it so big? These comments are painful for every woman," she said. Tamilisai Soundararajan claimed that the harassment incident was not isolated and cited 2-3 similar cases reported in Chennai and Dharmapuri, highlighting growing concern over women's safety in educational institutions. "A girl has been harassed inside the institution where she has been studying. This is not an isolated case, Two or three cases have been reported in and around Chennai and Dharmaburi." (ANI) Affirming the government's commitment to 'One Nation One Election', Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said on Monday that the proposal is "practical and important" and will be discussed from the start of the new year with the first meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee to take place on January 8. In an interview with ANI, Meghwal said the proposal for simultaneous elections to assemblies and Lok Sabha has been discussed for quite some time and is not against the federal structure. He emphasized that the proposal would not infringe upon the rights of voters or states. A joint committee of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha has been formed to examine the bills relating to 'One Nation, One Election' which were introduced in Lok Sabha during Parliament's winter session. Meghwal said the first meeting of the joint committee on One Nation, One Election will be held on January 8. "The issue will be there from the start of the year. It is not new," he said, adding that it has been mentioned since 1983 and several parliamentary standing committees have talked about it. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes decisions and takes them in the interest of the country. He thought it is such a decision. When he became PM in his second term in 2029, he called an all-party meeting (on One Nation, One Election), which was attended by party presidents and senior leaders...," he said. The Law Minister said that the High Level Committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind recommended simultaneous polls to Lok Sabha and assemblies and these recommendations were approved by the cabinet after which a bill came to the Parliament. "Several steps have been taken. It is practical and it will not harm the federal structure. It will not take away the rights of the voters or the states. The process will be carried out according the Article 368 of the Constitution. It will be done as per union list, state list, concurrent list," Meghwal said. Asked about the opposition of some political parties to the proposal, Meghwal said "they also want this". He said there were simultaneous polls from 1952 till 1966 and the cycle broke in 1971 as elections were held early and Article 370 was repeatedly used. "Political parties also want this and people also want this...political parties will keep their view, there is no harm to any political party," he said, answering a query. He said voters are mature and make a choice while casting votes. Congress, Trinamool Congress, DMK and Left parties are among parties strongly opposed to 'One Nation, One Election' move of the government. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 -- were introduced by Meghwal in the Lok Sabha. The Union Cabinet had in September this year accepted the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections under the chairmanship of former President Ram Nath Kovind. The panel had recommendations for implementing simultaneous elections in two phases. It said that in the first phase, elections should be conducted for Lok Sabha and Assembly simultaneously. The second phase will involve conducting local body elections (panchayat and municipalities) within 100 days of general elections. The panel had recommended a common electoral roll for all elections. (ANI) Thousands of devotees gathered at the Shree Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Tuesday to participate in the last aarti of the year. Devotees could be seen standing in long queues, waiting patiently to offer prayers and seek blessings for the upcoming year. The temple saw an influx of pilgrims from across the country, marking a spiritual start to the New Year celebrations. Praveen Kumar, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ayodhya, assured that comprehensive security measures and arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims. Specifically addressing Ayodhya, he emphasized that the authorities are ensuring a smooth experience for pilgrims, with strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) established to maintain security and order. "All arrangements have been made across the state. In Ayodhya, we are ensuring that the pilgrims do not face any inconvenience. The SOPs have been put in place to maintain security," said the IGP. Meanwhile, in the national capital, Delhi Police outlined comprehensive security arrangements to ensure a safe celebration. Famous spots such as Hauz Khas, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar are expected to see large crowds for the festivities. Police have set up 27 checkpoints with personnel equipped with breath analyzers to check for drunk driving and promote road safety. In addition, 14 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and 16 Police Control Room (PCR) vans have been stationed at strategic locations for rapid response. According to officials, special attention is being given to 35 celebration venues and 15 popular spots, including malls, motels, and cinema halls, which will be under strict surveillance. The police force deployed for the occasion includes seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 38 Inspectors, 329 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, along with 161 female officers. Regular beat and vehicle patrols will bolster visibility and quick response mechanisms. Authorities have appealed to residents to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with deployed personnel. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to nearby officers or through the helpline number 112. New Year is a festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in urban areas. However, the occasion often sees a rise in alcohol consumption, which sometimes leads to an increase in cases of alcohol smuggling. (ANI) According to Delhi Fire Services, the blaze was caused by a cylinder blast at a factory located in the Jagdamba Colony of Johri Pur area. "Four people were injured and rushed to GTB Hospital for treatment," officials said. Officials said that preliminary investigations revealed that the fire was triggered by a mini LPG cylinder explosion. Further details are awaited. This incident comes days after a similar fire at a factory in the Najafgarh area of South West Delhi, that left six people injured last week. (ANI) As 2024 draws to a close, Shimla's iconic Ridge, also known as Ridge Maidan, has become a gathering point for tourists and locals alike. Visitors enjoyed the serene spectacle of the last sunset amidst the misty clouds. Despite the seven-day national mourning due to the passing of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on December 26, the hill station continues to draw visitors enchanted by its natural charm. The tourists rejoiced seeing the last sunset of the year. Joginder, a visitor from Haryana, expressed his sentiments, saying, "2024 has been a year of bittersweet memories. I am here in Himachal Pradesh to welcome 2025 amidst the beauty of Shimla, enjoying the sunset and hoping for snowfall. Even though snow hasn't blessed us yet, the breathtaking views make this New Year's experience special," he said. Among the throngs of tourists was Shubhangi from Meerut, who said, "Shimla is the perfect destination to leave behind the memories of 2024 and embrace the new year. Even amidst the tributes to Dr Manmohan Singh, we are here to celebrate the beauty of this place and welcome 2025 with hope and joy." For locals, the end of the year in Shimla carries a deeper meaning. Vinod, a young resident, shared, "Shimla is not just a tourist destination; it rejuvenates everyone who visits, including us locals. The natural beauty here inspires us to embrace new beginnings with positivity and gratitude," a local said. This year's end has a unique undertone, with tourists pausing to remember former PM Singh, a statesman whose impact on the nation remains unforgettable. However, the allure of the mountains and the promise of snowfall has not deterred the tourists. As the Ridge fills with awe-struck faces gazing at the golden hues of the sunset, the capital of Himachal Pradesh once again proves to be a place where memories are made, lives are refreshed, and the promise of a new year feels both hopeful and healing. With 2025 on the horizon, Shimla stands as a reminder of the balance between life's solemn moments and its enduring beauty, captivating all who visit its snowy peaks and golden sunsets. (ANI) Defence officials said the three services chiefs till now have their ADCs from their own service but from January 1 onwards, they will have ADCs from their sister services. "All the three service chiefs have voluntarily accepted their personal staff officers in the form of Aide-de-Camp (ADC) coming from different services," the officials said. The Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan already has his ADC from the Indian Air Force. The move comes at a time when the Indian Defence forces are moving towards Theaterisation to be prepared for fighting wars of the future. The officials said that India is transforming through a consensus-based approach moving toward theatre commands. This change will be adopted by all three service chiefs from January 1, signaling the major changes coming in 2025, the officials said. The defence officials said that to some, it may appear a small step but it is one of the biggest signals for transforming Defence Forces to empower India. Under the HR reforms being undertaken, the first set of cross-postings of junior officers was executed in mid-2023, with mid-level and senior officers being placed in important billets in mid-2024. A special Joint Division has also been created at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, Tamil Nadu, to foster a collaborative and inter-service approach to jointness and integration in warfare and focus on inter-service understanding and cooperation, thus empowering them to lead the way in the upcoming era of Theatre Commands, they said. ANI (ANI) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday announced a record-breaking achievement for 2024, boasting a 100 per cent conviction rate with the conviction of 68 accused in 25 cases, a feat that underscores the agency's commitment to delivering justice and strengthening national security. Officials attributed this success to rigorous investigations and meticulous legal strategies. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the NIA, further solidifying its reputation as one of the country's most effective investigative agencies. As per the agency, a total of 210 accused were arrested across key categories of crimes in 80 cases registered by the NIA in 2024. Of these cases, Left Wing Extremism (LWE) and North East insurgency topped the list at 28 and 18 cases respectively. Seven Jammu and Kashmir Jihadi cases were followed by six explosive substances and five human trafficking cases. NIA further registered four other Jihadi cases, four Khalistan and two ISIS Jihadi cases, and one case each in gangsters, cyber terrorism, Fake Indian Currency Notes and others categories. Besides convictions of 68 accused in 25 cases, NIA said its impressive performance for 2024 was marked by charge sheeting of 408 accused. A total of 137 properties worth Rs 19.57 crore were attached during the year as part of the agency's sustained efforts to dismantle the various terrorist, gangster and other criminal networks. Left Wing Extremism (LWE) remained under NIA's scanner throughout the year, leading to a maximum of 69 arrests of the total 210 arrests reported in 2024. Twenty-eight cases of LWE were registered, and 12 chargesheets filed against 64 accused in this category. North-east insurgency was also high on NIA's radar with 15 arrests. The Independence Day boycott call by ULFA(I) in Assam saw the arrest of five accused in two separate cases. The call had been given on August 14 by Paresh Baruah, commander-in-chief of the banned terrorist organisation. This was followed, the next day, by a press release issued by Ishan Asom, 2nd Lieutenant cum Assistant Publicity Secretary of ULFA(I), that 19 IEDs had been planted across various parts of Assam, leading to a situation of panic among the people of the state. The crackdown on the growing terrorist gangster was also a key highlight of the year. NIA arrested 14 accused in connection with foreign-based Khalistani terrorist cases during the year, which saw 101 searches being conducted in these cases. The total searches carried out across all kinds of cases in 2024 stood at 662. Thirteen arrests were made in gangster-related cases during the year. The agency said its agile efforts in cracking terrorism cases were evident in the fact that it had charge-sheeted Pakistan-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) chief Wadhawa Singh alias Babbar and five other terrorists in the murder of VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar alias Vikas Bagga in Punjab within months of the fatal attack. Similarly, 10 accused, including foreign-based terrorist Goldy Brar, were expeditiously charge-sheeted in the case pertaining to firing for extortion at the house of a businessman in Chandigarh by aides of Brar. Early in the year, NIA had also charge sheeted Khalistan Terrorist Force (KTF) members Manpreet Singh alias Peeta and Mandeep Singh, after their successful deportation from the Philippines. NIA further secured the conviction of four terrorists, including chief conspirator Kulwinderjeet Singh alias Khanpuria, in a terror conspiracy case related to the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) outfit. Khanpuria was involved in many terrorist cases, including a bomb blast at Connaught Place and a grenade attack at Red Fort, Delhi, in the nineties. He was also wanted in many terrorist cases, including a conspiracy to carry out targeted killings in Punjab. Another notable development in the Khalistani terror-related cases was the successful extradition of Tarsem Singh Sandhu of Tarn Taran district of Punjab from UAE, in a case of conspiracy of KLF, BKI & ISYF to wage war against the country. As far as extraditions secured by NIA are concerned, another accused, Salman Khan, was brought in from Rwanda in an arms seizure case in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Arms seizure emerged as a key milestone in NIA's against attempts by anti-national forces to unleash violence in the country. Cases of weapons recovery and seizure were reported from across the country, including Jammu, Jaipur, Ranchi, Patna, and Chandigarh. Notable among these was the seizure, in Jammu, of arms/ammunition and other incriminating materials from a car driver working as an overground worker (OGW) of the banned Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) terrorist outfit. As many as 2 hand grenades, 34 9mm pistol rounds, 1 Chinese pistol, 1 Turkish pistol, 20 Chinese pistol rounds and 1 pistol silencer were recovered in this case. A massive haul of five rifles, six pistols, one revolver, 215 rounds ammunition, 5 detonators, two packets of gunpowder, 75 fired empty cartridges and 75 kgs of suspected explosive substance were also seized in a case of illegal supply of arms, ammunition and explosives to operatives in NE states and insurgent groups based across the international border The arrest of 11 ISIS Jihadis, five Jammu and Kashmir Jihadis and 24 other Jihadis marked another major step forward for the agency. The anti-terror agency scaled up its operations multifold in 2024, cracking the Rameshwaram cafe blast case in Karnataka, which rocked the nation early in the year, within a matter of months. With five accused already arrested and four charge-sheeted in this high-profile case, NIA once again proved its ability to solve tough cases with speed and agility, backed by technical and field investigations in coordination with various state police forces and other agencies. A total of 27 absconding criminals were nabbed by NIA during the year. Notable among them was Savad, who was nabbed after being on the run for 13 years in the Kerala Professor hand-chopping case. Other key absconders arrested during the year included Mohammed Sahjalal Haldar and Idris in a Bengaluru case relating to human trafficking from Myanmar into India, Shokat Ali alias Shaukat Ali in the Jaipur customs gold seizure case, and Mohammed Mustafa and Kodaje Mohammed Sherif in BJP leader Praveen Nattaru murder case. The arrest of absconder Kamran Haider in the Laos human trafficking and cyber slavery case signified NIA's concerted focus on destroying the chain behind this criminal activity, which has led to several innocent youth being trapped on foreign land by unscrupulous elements. A key aspect of the speedy action and breakthroughs in the Rameshwaram cafe blast and other major cases was the stellar role played by the intelligence agencies and the concerned state police forces. NIA coordinated closely with them throughout the year, working in a spirit of teamwork and sharing information on a continuous basis to crack various important cases with speed and alacrity. As part of its efforts to enhance the capacity of the state police forces, NIA also engaged in their capacity building, providing training to 1,678 state police officials through 11 training programmes and courses in 2024. At the same time, given the growing scale and magnitude of major terror-related and other serious crimes with the potential to disrupt India's peace and harmony, NIA made significant efforts during the year to strengthen its own capacities. The establishment of two new exclusive NIA courts, one each in Jammu and Ranchi, was an important step in this direction. NIA also released a handbook on UA(P)A investigations to bring standardisation into the probing of terror cases. (ANI) In a demonstration of unity and resilience, Gurlad Singh Khallon, the petitioner in the Supreme Court case seeking justice for the victims of 1984 anti-Sikh riots, led a protest march in the national capital on Tuesday. Accompanied by victims and their families, the march began from Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a significant religious site, highlighting the ongoing pain and demand for accountability. The march culminated with the presentation of a public memorandum to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, demanding an official apology from the Congress party for its "role" in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. The memorandum also called for justice for the victims, emphasizing the "failure" of the Congress party to confront the atrocities that "decimated the Sikh community, including the destruction of Gurdwaras, mass killings, sexual violence, and the displacement of thousands of innocent families." Sikh leader Khallon, who has been at the forefront of the fight for justice, accused Priyanka Gandhi of turning a blind eye to the suffering of Sikhs while advocating for other causes. "Why has the suffering of Sikhs been forgotten by the Gandhi family?" Khallon questioned. "Sikhs were mercilessly slaughtered, their women assaulted in front of their families--how can this be overlooked?" Khallon further pointed to the Widows' Colony in Delhi, where survivors of the 1984 genocide still live in deplorable conditions. "Priyanka Gandhi should come forward, address the issue, and apologize for Congress' role in the violence," Khallon urged. The Widows' Colony, a haunting reminder of the devastation, continues to bear witness to the scars left on the Sikh community. The issue gained further attention when Priyanka Gandhi was seen carrying a tote bag in Parliament during the winter session, symbolizing solidarity with Palestinians and Bangladeshi Hindus. This act, however, led to a BJP MP gifting the Wayanad MP a tote bag bearing a symbol associated with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, reigniting calls for the Congress party to acknowledge its past and take responsibility for the violence. As the marchers concluded their peaceful protest, the message was clear: justice for the victims of 1984 anti-Sikh riots must not be delayed any longer, and an apology from the Gandhi family is long overdue. The call for accountability continues to grow, as the Sikh community remains steadfast in its quest for justice and closure. (ANI) Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (CPI-ML) leaders marched towards Raj Bhavan to meet the Governor over the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) issue. As the leader marched towards the Raj Bhawan, the police stopped them. The protesting students in Patna are demanding the cancellation of the Integrated Combined (Preliminary) Competitive Examination (CCE) 2024 conducted by the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) on December 13. Congress leader Shakeel Ahmed Khan alleged that Bihar government is unable to provide justice to the students. "The Bihar government is unable to provide justice to the students... If they try to suppress the voice of the students, we will oppose it. The police have stopped us right now," he said. On Sunday, Bihar police lathi-charged and used water cannons to disperse the protesting BPSC aspirants in Gandhi Maidan. Following the incident, Bihar Police registered an FIR against hundreds of individuals, including Jan Suraaj Chief Prashant Kishore, for unauthorised gatherings, instigating people, and creating law and order issues in Gandhi Maidan. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav condemned the lathi charge on protesting Bihar BPSC aspirants. In a video statement, the former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister said, "It is very painful how BPSC aspirants were beaten up by the police. Many people are badly injured in this... We condemn this. The visuals that have surfaced are painful. I am a youth, and I can understand their situation. Firstly, people were protesting against normalisation..." "On 15-16 December, BPSC announced the cancellation of the exam at one centre. If the paper had been leaked, then why is the exam being cancelled only at one centre? It is a kind of normalisation... That's why students are protesting for a re-examination. I also support this," the RJD leader said. Meanwhile, Bihar Education Minister Sunil Kumar on Monday said that the BPSC will probe the complaints raised by the aspirants over the Integrated Combined Competitive Examination (CCE), 2024. Speaking to media persons, Kumar said: "They can say what they want; it is their right, but the Commission will probe this and will take an appropriate decision." (ANI) Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently conducted a comprehensive review of the various rural development initiatives being implemented in Tamil Nadu. The minister praised the state's achievements in advancing its rural infrastructure and providing livelihood opportunities for its citizens. "Tamil Nadu is one of the greatest states of India," Chouhan stated, emphasizing the state's importance in India's overall development. He credited the central government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for its continuous support to Tamil Nadu's development. He further assured that the Union Government remains committed to supporting the state's rural development programs. Chouhan focused on several key schemes during his review, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). "Last fiscal year, under MGNREGA, 12,603 crores were released to Tamil Nadu to provide employment to rural citizens. This year too, 7,220 crores were released to ensure that no one remains unemployed," the Union Minister stated. He underscored that MGNREGA continues to be one of the major tools to combat unemployment in rural areas, offering financial support to millions of families. He also highlighted the progress made under the Prime Minister's Rural Roads Scheme, which is vital for improving connectivity in rural areas. Tamil Nadu has received tenders for 10,352 roads with a total length of 26,500 kilometers. Chouhan remarked, "Out of these, 9,681 roads, covering 23,579 km, and 150 bridges have already been completed. The remaining work is currently in progress." This ambitious scheme aims to improve rural infrastructure and ensure better access to remote areas, boosting the state's economic development. Another focal point was the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), a flagship scheme aimed at providing affordable housing to the poor. "In Tamil Nadu, the target is to construct 8,15,771 houses. So far, 7,47,542 houses have been approved, with the first installment of 7,33,369 houses already released," Chouhan stated. He expressed confidence that the remaining houses would be completed soon and urged the Tamil Nadu government to accelerate their construction. Chouhan also lauded the success of the Mahila Shaktikaran Yojana, which empowers women by creating self-help groups through the Aajeev Mission. "The goal is to create self-reliant women, and in Tamil Nadu, nearly 10 lakh women have become Lakhpati Didis, earning more than one lakh rupees annually," he added. "The Prime Minister has given two targets to the country, two crore houses are to be built in the rural areas, pucca houses for the poor, And we have to create another three crore Lakhpati Didis," he added. Chouhan reaffirmed that the central government, under Prime Minister Modi, would "continue to support Tamil Nadu in all rural development schemes". He urged the state government to expedite the completion of ongoing projects for the benefit of the rural population. (ANI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma greeted the people of Assam on the occasion of the eve of New Year 2025 and called the year "memorable" for the state. In a post on X, said that his government keeps on working for the development of the state. "With this, the 2024 season comes to an end! What a memorable year it has been for Assam. Our Govt has taken every step to ensure the development of our people and we reaffirm our commitment to keep working 24/7 for the State," CM Sarma wrote in his post. Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu extended her greetings to the people on the eve of the new year 2025. In her message, the President said, "On the joyous occasion of the new year, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all Indians, living in India and abroad. The coming of the new year marks the beginning of new hopes, dreams, and aspirations in our lives. "Let us welcome the New Year with joy and enthusiasm and take our society and nation further on the path of unity and excellence," she said. (ANI) Addressing the media at the party's central office, Reddy referred to the latest Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) report to support his claims. According to the joint report by ADR and National Election Watch (NEW), Naidu is the richest Chief Minister in the country, with declared assets worth Rs 931 crores, which accounts for 58 per cent of the total wealth of all 31 CMs surveyed. Reddy further alleged that the real market value of Naidu's assets could exceed Rs 1 lakh crore, raising serious questions about the sources of such wealth. He also accused Naidu of using the state's financial distress as a cover. "While the state is sinking in debt, Chandrababu's assets are skyrocketing," Reddy alleged, underlining that the shares of Heritage Foods, owned by Naidu's family, saw a notable rise since the TDP returned to power. Reddy, adding to his allegations, lashed out at the "yellow media" for disregarding the ADR findings to protect Naidu's image. "Chandrababu, who once claimed he had no watch, ring, or money in his pocket, has now been exposed as a billionaire," Reddy accused. He alleged that Naidu's governance only enriches his family, leaving the state burdened with debt and economic stagnation. (ANI) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, wished everyone a Happy New Year, hoping it brings new enthusiasm, joy, and happiness as the nation welcomed 2025. "Happy New Year to all of you. I hope this year brings new enthusiasm, joy, and happiness to your life. Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year!" Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X. Meanwhile, Mallikarjun Kharge, in his New Year message on X, urged fellow citizens to reaffirm their commitment to inclusive progress, unity in diversity, social justice, equality, and the protection of the Constitution. "My dear fellow citizens, as we enter 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to inclusive progress, unity in diversity, social justice, equality, and the protection of our Constitution with unwavering resolve. Wishing everyone a #HappyNewYear filled with hope, joy, and prosperity. Let there be peace and amity all around. Jai Hind," Kharge said in a post on X. Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu extended her greetings to the nation on the eve of the New Year. In her message, she said, "On the joyous occasion of the New Year, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all Indians, both in India and abroad. The coming of the New Year marks the beginning of new hopes, dreams, and aspirations in our lives. Let us welcome the New Year with joy and enthusiasm and take our society and nation further on the path of unity and excellence." India welcomed the year 2025 with celebrations across the country, as people in various cities marked the occasion with joy and enthusiasm. New Year celebrations began in many cities with parties, cultural events, live music performances, and themed decorations. In Delhi, famous spots like Hauz Khas, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar were filled with large crowds celebrating the New Year. To ensure a safe celebration, Delhi Police made prior security arrangements. In Punjab's Amritsar, people gathered at the Golden Temple to welcome the New Year. Hotels in many cities also hosted special celebrations for the occasion. In Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal, people were seen dancing in the streets as they welcomed 2025. Similarly, in Lucknow, people danced and celebrated as the clock struck midnight. As the New Year arrived, many cities witnessed spectacular fireworks displays. In Mumbai, beaches like Juhu Beach, Chowpatty Beach, and Versova Beach were packed with revelers. People also gathered at Marine Drive to watch the fireworks. Meanwhile in Himachal Pradesh's Manali, a popular tourist destination, crowds danced and cheered in the streets. In West Bengal, people celebrated with lights flashing from their mobile phones. In Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram, fireworks lit up the sky, marking the arrival of the New Year. In Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam, people also celebrated by cutting cakes. In Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore, percussion instruments were played in the streets, while Chennai witnessed a huge crowd celebrating the occasion. (ANI) Israeli forces raided the last functioning hospital in Northern Gaza, damaging the building and evacuating its patients and doctors, CNN reported. Israeli forces also arrested the hospital's director, Hussam Abu Safiya, accusing him of being a suspected "Hamas terrorist operative," according to the CNN report. On Friday, The raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza has put approximately 75,000 Palestinians still remaining in the northern part of the enclave at risk, the United Nations stated. According to the report, the raid has left the hospital "empty" of patients, some of whom are critically ill, as confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Speaking to CNN, Mohammed Salha, the director of Al Awda Hospital in northern Gaza, said that the Adwan Hospital is "totally out of service" and that his own medical facility is running out of fuel and is overwhelmed with patients despite limited supplies. "We have one surgeon who is only performing when a case is in a life-threatening situation," Salha said. He added, "The health system in the north has completely deteriorated. We are working to save what is left." On Monday, dozens of Hamas gunmen were killed in Israeli ambushes in the northern Gaza area of Jabaliya overnight, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. "Many terrorist squads were eliminated in ambushes by the forces after they were seen fleeing with weapons in their hands," the IDF stated. According to the IDF, the Hamas squads were neutralized through gunfire and tank shelling. At least 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 97 remaining hostages, more than 30 have been declared dead. (ANI) Abu Dhabi, December 31 (ANI/WAM): President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, discussed bilateral relations and ways to enhance ties as part of the two countries' strategic partnership. This comes in reflection of both sides' keenness to advance relations to serve mutual interests, especially in the economic, commercial, developmental, technological, climate action, renewable energy, and other fields in line with the priorities and ambitions of the UAE and Brazil for sustainable development. The call also addressed the 19th G20 Heads of State and Government Summit recently hosted by Brazil. His Highness thanked the Brazilian President for inviting the UAE to participate in the summit, expressing his appreciation for the efforts of His Excellency President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to ensure its success and achieve outcomes that bolster cooperation and development for all. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest, underscoring the importance of multilateral action to confront shared global challenges and strengthen international peace, stability, and security. (ANI/WAM) Pakistan People's Party Member of National Assembly Mirza Ikhtiar Baig on Monday (local time) said that his party would oppose the proposed Tax Amendment Bill, which aims to freeze the bank accounts of non-filers. Baig revealed that the proposed bill restricts non-filers from transferring immovable property and threatens to confiscate their business properties under new provisions, ARY News reported. Baig called the proposed laws "excessively harsh" and stated that his party would oppose them. According to ARY News, Baig suggested that this bill should be discussed in the Finance and Revenue Committees of the National Assembly. Baig also pointed out that the category of "non-filers" was created by the government itself, and further, in a jibe, he questioned, "Would people soon need permission just to breathe?" Further, according to ARY News, last week, after Pakistan's Senate body approved the tax amendment bill, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced that it had issued notices to around 169,000 influential individuals to bring them into the tax net. The Tax Amendment Bill 2024, cleared by the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue, aims at tightening regulations and curbing tax evasion, ARY said. Speaking about Pakistan's slow internet services, Baig said that the country is lagging behind as the world has advanced to 5G, while Pakistan struggles with 4G, the report added. Additionally, as per ARY News, Baig revealed that 22 IT companies had already left Pakistan due to slow internet speeds, leading to significant losses in the IT sector. Baig urged the government to take action to strengthen Pakistan's IT industry. On December 23, Pakistan's Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Division, Syed Sajid Mehdi, suggested that Pakistanis "use the internet less" and restrict usage to "important matters only" to address frequent slowdowns in internet speed across the country, Dawn reported. His comments come amid mounting frustrations over sluggish connectivity affecting users nationwide.Further, the Dawn report stated that Pakistan has faced persistent connectivity issues, including slow download speeds on platforms like WhatsApp and intermittent internet outages. The disruptions have sparked criticism from IT professionals, who are concerned about the broader implications of these problems on the country's technology sector. (ANI) US President-elect Donald Trump has expressed his support to entrepreneur and aide Elon Musk, over his recent statements on the contributions of immigrants to the United States. Musk had emphasised the value of hard-working individuals from all races, creeds, and nationalities who have contributed to the nation, urging Americans to preserve the country's identity as a land of freedom and opportunity. Musk in a post stated, "Anyone of any race, creed or nationality - who came to America and worked like hell to contribute to this country will forever have my respect. America is the land of freedom and opportunity. Fight with every fiber of your being to keep it that way!" Showing his support for Musk, the President-elect reposted the Tesla CEO's post on his social media platform Truth Social. https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1872770566920519899 Two days earlier, Trump had expressed his support for the H-1B visa programme and acknowledged frequently using it for his own properties, calling it a "great programme," according to a report by the New York Post. Calling it a "great programme," the President-elect said he has "always" been in its favour. "I've always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That's why we have them," Trump said in a telephonic interview with the New York Post. He added, "I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I've been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It's a great programme." Notably, during Trump's first term, the administration imposed restrictions on H-1B visas, citing concerns over "abuse" and "economic strain." Trump's remarks on H-1B visas came after a major divide emerged within his MAGA team in the United States, as Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy who advocated for the expansion of the visa program for 'highly skilled workers' faced heavy backlash from within the President-elect's base. Musk and Ramaswamy -- both foreign origin leaders heading Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) -- reignited the debate on H-1B visas, while reflecting a divide over immigration policy as Trump prepares to assume office. (ANI) Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) on Monday confirmed the death of a crew member following the emergency landing of flight LX1885 last week. In a post on Facebook, the Swiss International Air Lines wrote, "Today is a dark day for SWISS. It is with heavy hearts that we must share the loss of a dear colleague following the emergency landing of LX1885 on 23 December 2024. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and the loved ones of our dear colleague, whose pain must be immeasurable." SWISS CEO Jens Fehlinger and COO Oliver Buchhofer offered the family of the deceased their condolences and assured support to the victim's family. Fehlinger said, "We are devastated at our dear colleague's death. His loss has left us all in the deepest shock and grief. Our thoughts are with his family, whose pain we cannot imagine. I offer them my heartfelt condolences on behalf of all of us at SWISS. And we will, of course, be doing everything in our power to help and support them at this extremely difficult time." Buchhofer said, "This is the saddest of days for us all. Losing our colleague and fellow member of our SWISS team leaves me distraught and dismayed. But we stand with one another at this truly difficult time; and we will be doing our utmost, together with the relevant authorities, to determine the causes involved. We have many questions, and we want them answered. Our special thanks go to the responsible parties in Graz, particularly the local emergency services, who have given our passengers and our crew members such professional help and support." Notably, SWISS flight LX1885 from Bucharest to Zurich on December 23, 2024 had to make an emergency landing at Graz Airport due to an engine problem and smoke in the cockpit and cabin. The cockpit crew decided to abort the flight to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. There were 74 passengers and five crew members on board the Airbus A220-300 with the registration HB-JCD. The aircraft landed safely and all passengers were evacuated. (ANI) The German government has accused Tesla CEO and entrepreneur Elon Musk of interfering in the country's upcoming election after he endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), according to a report by Euro News. Officials, including government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann, Social Democratic Party (SPD) co-leader Lars Klingbeil, and Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's largest opposition party Christian Democratic Union (CDU) condemned Musk's comments on Germany. "It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election through his statements," Hoffmann said. She added that although Musk was "free to express his opinion" it was worth noting Musk was recommending voting for a party that is "being monitored by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution on suspicion of being right-wing extremist and that has already been recognized as being right-wing extremist in parts." SPD co-leader Lars Klingbeil also criticised Musk, comparing him to Russian President Vladimir Putin and accusing him of election interference. Klingbeil alleged that Musk's public endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of the country's snap elections is a deliberate attempt to weaken Germany's democracy and called for stricter regulation of major internet platforms like Musk's X. In an interview with Funke Mediengruppe on Monday, Klingbeil likened Musk to Putin, saying that "both want to influence our elections and are deliberately supporting the AfD, the enemies of democracy. They want Germany to be weakened and plunge into chaos." "We need to be much more proactive and effectively limit the power of the large internet platforms like Musk's short message service, X. Here, a tech billionaire is trying to use his influence to influence the course of world politics," Euro News reported. CDU leader Friedrich Merz called Musk's endorsement of the far-right AfD an unprecedented example of meddling between allied nations and highlighted the potential economic harm of AfD policies, such as their push for Germany to exit the European Union. Merz said Musk had overlooked several of the AfD's policies when drafting his op-ed, including its stated desire for Germany to leave the European Union, something Merz and many others argue would be extremely damaging to Germany's economy, according to a report by Euro News. Last week, Musk sparked controversy in Germany by openly endorsing the AfD. In a post on X, Musk wrote, "The portrayal of the AfD as rightwing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party's leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you." Earlier, Musk had called Chancellor Scholz a "fool" after the collapse of his three-party coalition. Musk posted in German on X: "Olaf ist ein Narr." The sentence translates to -- "Olaf is a fool." In a major turn of events, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had lost a confidence vote in their parliament forcing the country into snap elections seven months ahead of schedule. The vote on December 16 came after Scholz's fragile coalition collapsed, sparking a political crisis in the largest economy of the European Union. Only 207 lawmakers voted in Scholz's support in the 733-member lower house, or Bundestag, while 394 members voted against him and 116 abstained. That left him far short of the majority of 367 needed to sustain in power. Following this, the snap elections for a new parliament will take place on February 23. In Germany, Scholz - who previously served as mayor of Hamburg and finance minister before becoming the head of a new government in 2021 - accused the Free Democrats of wanting to block investment in the country. Seen as a continuity candidate when he took over from Angela Merkel three years ago, he has framed next year's election as an opportunity for voters to set a new course, casting the vote as a choice between a future of growth versus one of austerity, according to Al Jazeera. If he gets a second term, Scholz said he would invest heavily in Germany's creaking infrastructure and would not make the spending cuts he said the conservatives want. (ANI) Trinidad and Tobago has declared a state of emergency following killing incidents during the weekend added to what was already an exceptionally deadly year for the Caribbean nation, CNN reported. In the emergency orders announced by the office of the Prime Minister Keith Rowley on Monday, the police personnel will be able to conduct search among people and premises without warrants and detain suspects for up to 48 hours, in an effort to reduce what the leader termed an "unacceptable high level of violent crime." However, no curfew has been placed by the authorities. The decision came after several people were killed in the gun violence during the weekend, taking the murder toll in Trinidad and Tobago in 2024 to 623 - the highest level in police records dating back to 2013, according to CNN report. According to the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), Trinidad and Tobago which has a population of 1.5 million has one of the highest murder rates in the Caribbean, along with Jamaica and Haiti, while violent deaths in the region are nearly three times the global average. Police has warned they expect the amount of gang-related violent crime involving powerful assault weapons to rise. While addressing a briefing on Monday, Acting Attorney General Stuart Young said that there had been 61 homicides so far in the month of December, according to CNN report. These included a shooting incident on Saturday, which involved a high caliber automatic weapon outside a police station that claimed the life of one person and an incident less than 24 hours later in which five people were killed and one injured in the Port of Spain area. While speaking at the same briefing, Trinidad and Tobago's Minister of National Security Fitzgerald Hinds said two people were killed on Friday - one in a gang-related incident, another in a "domestic situation" - and 15 others killed in gun-related incidents since last Monday. Hinds said police considered the latest wave of incidents as an "outbreak of gang violence," adding that the military would assist in implementing the state of emergency. Stuart Young said that the use of high-caliber firearms by criminal gangs had made the recent violence particularly concerning, resulting in declaration of state of emergency. "There is very little chance of survival due to the velocity and the caliber of these weapons. This has been a major concern not only for us here in Trinidad and Tobago, but throughout the whole CARICOM region," Young said, referring to the regional Caribbean Community group of nations. A significant amount of violent crime like murder, assault and kidnapping in Trinidad and Tobago is connected to criminal gang activity and narcotics trafficking, according to the US State Department. In July, the US State Department announced that its travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago is at Level 3, advising US citizens to reconsider travel due to crime, according to CNN report. General Stuart Young said the government was in touch with the US to discuss how to control the situation as many of the high-powered weapons come from the US. Notably, firearms are not made in Caribbean nations. However, more than 7,000 firearms were recovered from them between 2018 and 2022. According to GAO, nearly three-quarters of those came from the US. (ANI) Venezuela's Supreme Court has imposed a 10 million dollar fine on TikTok, accusing the popular video-sharing platform of negligence about deadly viral challenges that allegedly led to the deaths of three adolescents due to chemical intoxication, according to a report by Voice of America. The court, led by Judge Tania D'Amelio, argued that TikTok failed to take "necessary and adequate measures" to prevent the spread of dangerous content encouraging these challenges. As part of the ruling, TikTok, owned by China's ByteDance, was ordered to establish a local office in Venezuela and given eight days to pay the fine or face further consequences. The court also announced that the fine would fund the creation of a "TikTok victims fund" aimed at compensating individuals affected by harmful content, particularly children and teenagers. According to the Voice of America, the case stems from reports that three adolescents died and over 200 others were poisoned in schools across Venezuela after engaging in viral challenges involving harmful chemicals. These challenges, a common feature of TikTok's user-driven content, have drawn increasing criticism for their potential to endanger young users. TikTok's platform, which thrives on viral trends, has faced growing scrutiny over its role in spreading hazardous content. TikTok's official policy prohibits content promoting self-harm or suicide, but critics argue that the platform has not done enough to prevent harmful challenges from going viral. In response to the Venezuelan court's decision, TikTok expressed its understanding of the situation's seriousness but did not comment further on the financial penalty. The ruling comes amid broader efforts in Venezuela to regulate social media platforms. President Nicolas Maduro has previously threatened harsh actions against TikTok and other platforms, accusing them of promoting content that he claims fosters "hate" and "division." Earlier in November, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro held TikTok responsible for the death of a 12-year-old girl, claiming she died after taking part in a TikTok challenge that involved consuming tranquilliser pills and trying to stay awake. (ANI) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) negotiating team has decided to present two initial demands in its upcoming meeting with a government team, set to be held later this week, Dawn reported. Pakistan's National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq will chair an in-camera meeting between the negotiating teams of federal government and PTI on January 2, Dawn reported citing a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat on Monday. This will be the second meeting between PTI and the government. The notification said that Sadiq "will chair a 2nd meeting (in-camera) on negotiations between Treasury and Opposition on Thursday, the 2nd January, 2025 at 11:30am" at the Parliament House. According to sources, PTI had decided to pursue two initial demands in the talks scheduled for January 2, which includes release of under trial political prisoners and the establishment of a judicial commission to conduct investigation into the events of May 9, 2023 and November 26. Background discussions with party leaders revealed that it was annoyed by the "illogical and absurd statements" issued by the government ministers regarding the talks and wanted Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to review its "nonsensical approach and create a favourable environment for talks", according to Dawn report. Sources said that PTI will share their demands with the government in writing on January 2 and is hoping for a resolution of these issues as confidence-building measures, before moving forward. Earlier, Sunni Ittehad Council Chairman Sahibzada Hamid Raza, one of the PTI's main parliamentary allies, said that the party will give the government a time period until Jan 31 to conclude the negotiations. Raza said, "The cut-off date for negotiations is Jan 31. On January 2, when our committee meets the government to continue the negotiations, Omar Ayub will formally give them this deadline," Dawn reported. Earlier this month, PTI founder Imran Khan had formed a committee to hold talks with the government over party's demands, which included Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub, former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser, Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and SIC chief Sahibzada Hamid Raza. However, Asad Qaiser, the SIC chief and MWM's Senator Raja Nasir Abbas represented PTI at the meeting held in December. Meanwhile, the team formed by Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to hold talks with the PTI comprises Pakistan's Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, PM's political aide Rana Sanaullah, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders Raja Parvez Ashraf and Naveed Qamar, and IPP leader Aleem Khan, PML-Q leader Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Balochistan Awami Party's Sardar Khalid Magsi and MQM-P's Farooq Sattar. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday marked the 20th anniversary of the Quad, emphasising its progress from providing a "shared response" to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami into a "vital force stability, progress and prosperity" in the Indo-Pacific region. He further reaffirmed India's commitment, alongside Australia, Japan, and the United States, to addressing the region's needs. Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Two decades ago, the idea of Quad began with a shared response to the Indian Ocean tsunami. Today, the Quad stands as a vital force for stability, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific." "On its 20th anniversary, I join @SenatorWong, FM Takeshi Iwaya and @SecBlinken in reaffirming our commitment to addressing the region's needs together," the post added. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1873983405618090222 Earlier in the day, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Quad cooperation, India, Australia, Japan, and the United States highlighted the grouping's origins in the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. In a joint statement released by the Secretary of State of the United States of America and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, the group said, "Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States came together in service to the people of our region for the first time as the grouping now known as the Quad. The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries. Together, our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe. We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognise the survivors and the families of those who were lost." The statement added, "Our foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong. We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region. In 2024, our four countries collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific, and we continue to build on those efforts to identify new ways to respond rapidly to humanitarian crises and disasters." The group further said that over the past 20 years, the Quad has evolved from an initial collaboration for disaster relief into a dynamic partnership committed to addressing the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. "What began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of our region. Quad countries now work together and with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address complex challenges, from fighting climate change, cancer, and pandemics, to bolstering quality infrastructure, maritime domain awareness, STEM education, counter-terrorism efforts, critical and emerging technologies, and cyber security. Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quad's positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific," the joint statement said. The nations in the joint statement further said that as four partners, they share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions. "We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN's centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum. We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the region's premier organisation. The Quad is committed to working together in responding to the future needs of the region," the statement said. The Quad is a diplomatic partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States committed to supporting an open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient. The Quad's origins date back to our collaboration in response to the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. (ANI) The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has criticised the detention of its Karachi region member, Jamal Baloch, who was allegedly arrested by police at the Hub Chowki protest site and taken to an unknown location, The Balochistan Post reported. According to The Balochistan Post report, the BYC labelled the incident as a clear example of the state's notorious brutality. The spokesperson stated that when the protesters began their peaceful rally, the police used excessive force, specifically targeting women and young participants, seemingly to disrupt the protest. Despite the crackdown, the sit-in at Hub Chowki continues. BYC has urged people from all sectors of society to participate in the protest, stressing that this is a crucial moment for unity in the face of growing oppression. BYC stated, "We are exercising our constitutional right to protest, yet the state is responding with violence to suppress our voices. As the night falls, we fear further crackdowns against peaceful demonstrators. If any harm comes to our companions at the protest site, the state and its institutions will be held responsible." The committee reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful protest, calling on the authorities to refrain from using force and to respect their constitutional right to oppose. The statement ended with a heartfelt plea for support, urging people to join the sit-in. "Your presence will inspire our fight. Come and be a symbol of hope for your people during these challenging times." The Hub Chowki protest, which is part of a larger movement against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, has highlighted the growing oppression experienced by the Baloch community, The Balochistan Post reported. Protesters remain determined, calling for justice and the release of the missing activist, Jamal Baloch. Activists and human rights groups have long accused Pakistan of carrying out a quiet genocide in Balochistan. Despite the region's wealth of natural resources, its people have endured widespread poverty, displacement, and severe repression for decades. (ANI) Following the death sentence handed to Indian nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen, Kerala LoP and Congress leader VD Satheesan urged both the central and state governments to take immediate steps to save her. He further asserted that they are putting pressure on the state and central government to take initiative to save her. While speaking with ANI, Satheesan said, "The central government as well as the state government will have to take initiative to postpone this death sentence and save her. We are putting pressure on the state government and the central government to take initiative." Meanwhile, Babu John of Save Nimisha Priya forum emphasised the importance of negotiations with the family of the deceased and said, "There is no time for us... Government has to involve immediately with the Yemen government to stop the execution... We are asking the government of India to intervene and start the negotiation process immediately." He added, "Kerala government has nothing to do with it because it is totally in relation with the Yemeni government and the Indian government. Actually, the Indian government is acting on it. That's what we are thinking. But speedy action is needed at this point of time." The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier in the day confirmed its awareness of the death sentence handed to Nimisha Priya and assured that the government is providing all possible assistance. In response to media queries regarding the case of Nimisha Priya, MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that the family of Ms. Priya is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter." Nimisha Priya, who is sentenced to death in Yemen, is a trained nurse and has worked in private hospitals in Yemen for a few years. Her husband and minor daughter returned to India in 2014 because of financial reasons and in that same year, Yemen was gripped by civil war, and they could not go back as the country stopped issuing new visas. Later in 2015, Nimisha joined hands with a Mahdi to set up her clinic in Yemen's capital city Sana. She sought Mahdi's support because, under Yemen's law, only nationals are allowed to set up clinics and business firms. In 2015, Mahdi accompanied Nimisha Priya to Kerala when she came for a month-long holiday. During the visit, he stole a wedding photograph of Nimisha, which he later manipulated to claim that he was married to her. A plea moved by mother of Nimisha Priya had stated, "After a while, Nimisha's clinic began, Mahdi manipulated the ownership documents of the clinic. He also began to take money out of her monthly earnings after telling everyone that Nimisha was his wife Nimisha had alleged that Mahdi had been harassing her and her family for years. Mahdi also seized her passport. This was done to ensure that she would not leave Yemen. He tortured her under the influence of drugs. He threatened her at gunpoint several times. He took all the money from the clinic and her ornaments." The plea further alleged that unable to cope with the torture, Nimisha complained to the police in Sana but instead of taking action against Mahdi, the police arrested her and put her in jail for six days. It was further alleged that on her return from jail, the severity of the torture increased manifold. In July 2017, Nimisha took the help of a warden of a jail located near her clinic. The warden suggested that she should try to sedate him, and then convince him to give her passport. However, sedation did not affect Mahdi, who was a substance abuser. She tried sedating him again, using a stronger sedative in order to retrieve her passport but he died within a few minutes due to a drug overdose. (ANI) Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday raised doubts about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's 'sincerity' in upcoming talks with the federal government, questioning the party's "abrupt shift" in approach, The Express Tribune reported. Speaking to a private news channel on Monday, he called PTI's willingness for talks a "complete U-turn." He further said, "I am repeatedly asking what happened to the person [PTI founder Imran Khan] who did not want to shake hands with us [and is now desperately seeking dialogue with the government]." The statement came after Pakistan's National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq formally held an in-camera meeting between committees representing the government and Imran Khan-founded party. The talks between the two parties are scheduled for January 2, The Express Tribune reported. Asif expressed scepticism about PTI's motives. He said, "I do not see sincerity in PTI [leadership]," adding that while he was not opposed to negotiations, the federal government must remain cautious. Slamming Imran Khan's party, he said, "Look at their desperation, PTI wants to hold talks with the establishment through us." In response to a query, he said that the government would not compromise on Pakistan's nuclear and missile programmes. On Saturday, Khawaja Asif called for inclusive talks involving all power centres, including the military, judiciary, politicians, media, and bureaucracy, to resolve challenges faced by the country, The Express Tribune reported. He said, "There is army, bureaucracy, politicians, judiciary, and media. These are the power centres, and they need to sit together to resolve the issues in the country." However, he warned the government's negotiating team to stay vigilant, cautioning that Imran Khan may try to "take advantage." During the talks, PTI is expected to call for a judicial probe into the May 9 riots and the November 26 late-night crackdown, along with the release of "political prisoners." (ANI) Taliban has announced it will close all national and foreign nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) employing women in Afghanistan. In a letter shared on X, Taliban-led Ministry of Economy warned that failure to comply with the order would result in NGOs losing their licence to function in Afghanistan, Al Jazeera reported. The Taliban announced the latest decision two years after they asked NGOs to suspend the employment of Afghan women, allegedly as they did not follow Taliban's interpretation of the Islamic dress code for women. The Taliban-led Economy Ministry said that it was responsible for the registration, coordination, leadership and supervision of all activities conducted by national and foreign organisations. The Taliban has once again ordered the women to stop working in institutions not controlled by Taliban, according to the letter. It said, "In case of lack of cooperation, all activities of that institution will be cancelled and the activity licence of that institution, granted by the ministry, will also be cancelled." Restrictions have been imposed on Afghan women since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, prompting the United Nations to denounce the "gender apartheid" the authorities have established, according to Al Jazeera report. Taliban has banned girls from studying beyond sixth class, restricted employment and blocked access to parks and other public places. While announcing the decision, Taliban had said that the ban was a "temporary suspension" that would be resolved after creating a safe environment for girls to attend school. However, no change in decision has been announced yet. Earlier this month, the UN Security Council was informed about that the rising number of female Afghan humanitarian workers being stopped from carrying out their duties, despite the critical need for relief work, Al Jazeera reported. A senior UN offiical, Tom Fletcher, said that there was a rise in the number of humanitarian organisations that have had female or male staff blocked by Taliban, according to Al Jazeera report. The group has denied hindering work of aid agencies or interfering with their operations and defends its decisions necessary to uphold Afghanistan's law, social norms and public safety. Taliban has also denied imposing ban on women's activities and said that nearly 9,000 work permits have been issued to women since the group has seized power and claimed that many women were part of the Afghan workforce. (ANI) Tel Aviv [Israel], December 31 (ANI/TPS): More than 1,000 terror attacks inside Israel were thwarted in 2024, the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) disclosed in its annual report released on Tuesday. The year also saw a surge in cyberattacks, as well as hostage rescue missions in Gaza, and special operations in Jenin and Lebanon. Notable operations included the rescue of hostages and the retrieval of abductees' bodies for proper burial. Israeli operations have rescued eight hostages alive and recovered 28 bodies from Gaza. Since Hamas's October 7 attack, cyberattacks on Israel increased five times, the Shin Bet said. Collaborating with the military and the National Cyber Directorate, the Shin Bet thwarted 700 attacks. Of those 66 per cent attempted to gather information or spy on Israelis, 32 per cent sought to damage cyber networks, and the remaining 2 per cent were described as psy-ops, such as phishing attempts. The agency thwarted 1,040 terror attacks, primarily in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria. The figure included 689 shooting attacks, 326 attacks involving explosive devices, 13 stabbings, nine car-rammings, two suicide bombings and one kidnapping. Despite the rise in thwarted attacks, overall incidents in the region decreased by 40 per cent, which the Shin Bet attributed to enhanced intelligence and operational coordination with the army and other security agencies. In the Gaza Strip, Shin Bet operations led to the detention of over 1,350 individuals during raids. This figure included 40 senior operatives and commanders, 165 close associates of senior leaders, and around 100 other individuals suspected of having information concerning the hostages. Interrogations of 650 detainees yielded what the Shin Bet said was actionable intelligence enabling strikes on numerous terror targets. The data contributed to the rescue of hostages and informed ground maneuvers. In Lebanon, the Shin Bet eliminated senior operatives from various Palestinian terror organizations, including Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Within Israel, the Shin Bet broke up 13 espionage plots, arresting 37 Israelis suspected of spying for Iran, of whom 27 were indicted. The agency also exposed 20 terror cells among Israeli-Arabs. (ANI/TPS) As Australia ushered in the New Year, thousands of citizens gathered at the iconic Sydney Opera House to witness the spectacular fireworks and celebrations. People from across the globe converged at the Sydney Opera House to enjoy the festivities. Kunal Verma, an Indian visitor, expressed his excitement for the fireworks. He also shared that the New Year coincided with his wife's birthday, making the occasion even more special. "It's a very amazing feeling, this is the first time for us here. Earlier, we used to see this event on television. But seeing the event live is an amazing experience. Today is my wife's birthday also, so it's more special for me. Happy New Year to all the people. Stay fit and healthy. Best wishes for all," he said. Pooja, another Indian resident, wished for world peace in the coming year. "It's absolutely fantastic and different experience altogether. Spread the happiness all over the world. Best wishes to all the citizens of Australia as well as all the countries. Stay happy, stay healthy," she said. Pratik Patroi, who travelled from Nepal, shared his excitement for the event. "I am feeling so excited and this is my first time. I came all the way from Nepal to Australia to experience this amazing moment. It is looking like a wonderful time for me to experience. I want to give a message to all over the world, enjoy this new year. May this new year bring them all happiness to their family, and friends, and peace and love and spirit harmony among all people," Patroi told ANI. Another visitor from Nepal added, "I'm feeling very excited. Happy New Year! Wishing you all a great new year and have a successful year ahead." A local woman shared her relief after a long wait to get to the venue. "We are happy to be able to watch the fireworks which seems to be difficult to reach this place here so glad we made it after 5 hours of waiting," she said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also wished everyone a Happy New Year on social media. https://x.com/AlboMP/status/1873874874189611393 As Australia is ahead of India in time zones, the New Year arrived there first. Kiribati, an island in the Pacific Ocean, was the first country to celebrate the New Year, followed by other nations including New Zealand, Japan, Samoa, and Indonesia. American Samoa, which is a little farther from Samoa, will celebrate New Year nearly a day later due to the International Date Line. (ANI) The UK Embassy's Defence Adviser, Chris Saunders, on Tuesday highlighted that 2024 was a crucial year for the India-UK defence partnership. Saunders noted that one of the key highlights of 2024 was when Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the UK, marking a significant step in strengthening the defence relationship. "As the sun sets on 2024, we look back at yet another year where our bilateral strategic ties bloomed further. Here are some key moments of significance in our defence partnership this year..." Saunders said, adding, "We began with the first visit of an Indian Defence Minister to the UK in more than 20 years. Honourable Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh travelled to the UK, signalling the growing importance of the strategic relationship and agreeing to new levels of cooperation and engagement." https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041526449496201 https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041530677358951 Singh's visit was followed by a visit to India by the UK's Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Ben Key. "It was soon followed by the First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key visiting India to review and strengthen the maritime partnership. At the same time, both our navies were working closely in the region, securing the maritime trade routes," Saunders added. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041535467299173 The UK's Littoral Response Group (South) visited Chennai in March, further solidifying cooperation between both countries. "The maritime partnership continued to be in focus when the UK's Littoral Response Group (South) visited Chennai in March. This was no ordinary visit as it marked the beginning of a new chapter in cooperation between the two countries," Saunders explained. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041540093636928 In a first, LRG vessels underwent scheduled maintenance in an Indian shipyard. "The LRG vessels underwent a scheduled maintenance in an Indian shipyard for the first time, a testimony to the success of the logistics sharing agreement between the two countries," he said. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041545441370290 "Adding to the list of firsts, the Dartmouth Britannia Royal Naval College welcomed Lieutenant Commander N Dinesh Anand of the Indian Navy as one of its instructors. This marked the start of a new chapter in long-standing UK-India professional military education ties," Saunders said. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041549572759694 In the air domain, The UK Air Force contingent participated in India's maiden multi-lateral air exercise, Tarang Shakti. "Moving from the maritime to the air domain, a Royal Air Force contingent participated in India's maiden multi-lateral air exercise - Tarang Shakti," Saunders said. "Flying alongside the Indian Air Force and European partners, it was an excellent opportunity for the RAF to work closely with the IAF alongside other nations in a more challenging multilateral environment, significantly enhancing interoperability and sharing best practices." https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041553565647330 https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041561199386778 Both sides continued to have discussions on the range of defence, security and foreign policy issues. "Alongside these high-octane military engagements, we continued to have discussions on a range of defence, security and foreign policy issues via channels like our joint working group on counter-terrorism, electric propulsion technology and the 2+2 dialogue." https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041567994142988 London also welcomed INS Tushil as a part of its operational deployment. "We concluded this year by welcoming INS Tushil to London, as she arrived in the UK as part of her operational deployment, providing another opportunity to our forces to engage and learn from each other," Saunders added. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041573853585919 He emphasized that 2024 marked significant growth in ties between the two countries. https://x.com/UKDefenceIndia/status/1874041577599025227 "All in all, 2024 was another year of significant growth in our strategic ties, setting the stage for even bigger things to come in 2025. With these hopes, we wish all of our friends in India a very happy new year!" he said. (ANI) The 18th edition of Joint Military Exercise "Surya Kiran" between the Nepali Army and the Indian Army commenced on Tuesday. The exercise was inaugurated by Major General Prem Bahadur Pun, Mid-Western Division Commander, of the Nepali Army Battle School in Saljhandi, Rupandehi District. As per the release from the Nepal Army, the exercise includes the participation of 668 personnel from the Nepali Army, led by Lieutenant Colonel Nirajan Katwal and the Indian Army, led by Colonel Japender Pal Singh. "The exercise focuses primarily on counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations. Participants will share their expertise and experiences enhancing mutual cooperation and coordination in these areas," a release said. Furthermore, "The Nepali Army believes that such joint military exercises not only strengthen the longstanding friendly relations between the two Nations but also contribute to the enhancement of professional skills and mutual understanding between both the Armies," the press release states. The joint exercise is scheduled to conclude on January 13, 2025. During the exercise, an Infantry Battalion each from the Indian Army and the Nepali Army will be training together to develop inter-operability and share their experience of unorthodox modes of warfare including Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorist operations and also Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations, an official statement said. A traditional opening ceremony was organized to mark the commencement of the exercise in which both contingents marched in harmony to the Indian and Nepali military tunes, as per the statement. In a post on X, the Indian Army said, "The opening ceremony of the 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, was held today at the Nepal Army Battle School, Shaljhandi, Nepal. The exercise is scheduled from 31 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. The objective of the exercise is to strengthen interoperability between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army in conducting Joint Operations under the UN Mandate. Two Nations, One Vision for Security." https://x.com/adgpi/status/1874042867431186699 The 17th edition of exercise Surya Kiran was successfully concluded last year in Pithoragarh, India. Since its inception in 2011, the exercise has been held annually on a reciprocal basis in Nepal and India, completing 17 successful editions till date. (ANI) The 18th India-Nepal combined battalion level military training Exercise, Surya Kiran, commenced at Saljhandi in Nepal on Tuesday and will continue till January 13, an official statement said. During the exercise, an Infantry Battalion each from the Indian Army and the Nepali Army will be training together to develop inter-operability and share their experience of unorthodox modes of warfare including Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorist operations and also on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. A traditional opening ceremony was organsied to mark the commencement of the exercise in which both contingents marched in harmony to the Indian and Nepali military tunes, as per the statement. In a post on X, the Indian Army said, "The opening ceremony of 18th edition of Exercise Surya Kiran, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, was held today at the Nepal Army Battle School, Shaljhandi, Nepal. The exercise is scheduled from 31 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. The objective of the exercise is to strengthen interoperability between the Indian Army and the Nepal Army in conducting Joint Operations under the UN Mandate. Two Nations, One Vision for Security." https://x.com/adgpi/status/1874042867431186699 Major General Prem Bahadur Gurung, General Officer Commanding Mid-West Division, Nepal Army addressed the gathering and exhorted the contingents to gain from each other's rich experience, enmesh the interoperability while simultaneously strengthening the brotherhood existing among the two nations, as per the statement. The Indian Army contingent had reached Saljhandi on December 29 where they were accorded a traditional military reception. Around 700 defence personnel from both the Armies are participating in the event. Exercise Surya Kiran showcases the strong bonds of friendship, trust and common cultural linkages that exist between India and Nepal. It also gives a platform for a productive and fruitful engagement between the armies of India and Nepal. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountains and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief under United Nations Charter, according to the statement released by the Indian Army. (ANI) The mother of Suchir Balaji, a 26-year-old former OpenAI researcher who was found dead after accusing the company of violating copyright laws, alleged that her son was 'murdered' and demanded an FBI investigation into the matter. Poornima Rao, the mother of Suchir Balaji, claimed that her son's death was a "cold-blooded murder declared by authorities as suicide." She also mentioned that a private autopsy report differed from the initial police report. Additionally, she stated that her son's apartment had been "ransacked," and there were signs of a struggle in the bathroom that suggested he had been hit. "We hired private investigator and did second autopsy to throw light on cause of death. Private autopsy doesn't confirm the cause of death stated by police. Suchir's apartment was ransacked, sign of struggle in the bathroom and looks like some one hit him in bathroom based on blood spots. It's a cold blooded mu*d*r declared by authorities as suicide. Lobbying in San Francisco city doesn't stop us from getting justices. We demand FBi investigation." Poornima Rao wrote on X. Elon Musk responded to the post of Suchir Balaji's mother, saying "This doesn't seem like a suicide." Suchir Balaji was found dead in his apartment in San Francisco, months after accusing OpenAI of violating laws while developing ChatGPT, Fox News reported. His death was ruled a suicide after the San Francisco Police Department found no evidence of 'foul play'. On October 24, before his death, Suchir Balaji expressed his skepticism about the "fair use" of generative artificial intelligence products. "I recently participated in a NYT story about fair use and generative AI, and why I'm skeptical "fair use" would be a plausible defense for a lot of generative AI products," he wrote on X. "To give some context: I was at OpenAI for nearly 4 years and worked on ChatGPT for the last 1.5 of them. I initially didn't know much about copyright, fair use, etc. but became curious after seeing all the lawsuits filed against GenAI companies. When I tried to understand the issue better, I eventually came to the conclusion that fair use seems like a pretty implausible defense for a lot of generative AI products, for the basic reason that they can create substitutes that compete with the data they're trained on. I've written up the more detailed reasons for why I believe this in my post. Obviously, I'm not a lawyer, but I still feel like it's important for even non-lawyers to understand the law -- both the letter of it, and also why it's actually there in the first place," he added. Suchir Balaji also raised concerns about the company breaking copyright laws in an interview with The New York Times. He was named in a copyright lawsuit filed against the company by The New York Times, which alleged that Microsoft and OpenAI used millions of published articles to inform their technology and began competing with the outlet as a result, Fox News reported. (ANI) Russia has withdrawn the majority of its forces from Syria, weeks after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Vladimir Putins troops have vacated key positions, including the Qamishli base in northern Syria, Ukraines main military intelligence directorate has said. Russia still maintains a presence in coastal Syria at Khmeimim air base and the port of Tartus, but reports indicate it is preparing to either significantly draw down or withdraw fully. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The withdrawal highlights Moscows shifting priorities, raising questions about its ability to maintain influence in the region amid ongoing instability. But it also raises doubts about Russias ability to project its power into Africa. A Russian military attack helicopter at Qamishli airport in north-eastern Syria, now abandoned by Moscows troops, earlier this month - Delil Souleiman/AFP via Getty Images Control of the two main bases in Syria is vital for Kremlin missions to funnel aid, military kit and mercenaries to Africa, the core of Putins personal neo-colonialism project. He has deliberately fanned coups in west Africa, and dazzled its leaders with offers of cheap energy, grain, spy satellites and security as part of his global fight against the US and its allies. The Council on Foreign Relations, a US-based think tank, says of the Kremlins Africa project: Russias overarching goal is to gain more support for its vision of a multi-polar world order based on weakened Western influence. Wagner mercenaries boarding a helicopter in Mali, where the Russian group played a key role in supporting the military junta installed by a coup in 2020 - French army/via AP Analysts say Putin decided that the West was vulnerable in former European colonies in West Africa specifically Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and the Central African Republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And so he targeted them. In Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, coups encouraged by Russia since 2021 have installed pro-Kremlin military juntas who have become regular guests to Moscow. Meanwhile, France and the US have been forced to dismantle military bases in the region. In return for backing these coups and the resulting military governments, Putin expects pro-Russia policies that include supporting its policies at the UN, blaming Ukraine and the US for global terrorism, and handing over the rights to valuable minerals and mines. But, there was one major obstacle to Putins plan to undermine the West through Africa. Supply lines. The route from Russia to west Africa is a long one, too long for heavily laden Russian cargo aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this was where Russias Khmeimim air base and Tartus naval base in Syria came in. They became vital cogs for the Kremlins resupply routes for west Africa. Control over naval and air bases in Syria is vital for Russian interests throughout Africa, said the US-based Atlantic Council think tank this week. Russian cargo planes could land at Khmeimim to refuel halfway to Libya, where Russia has also built a foothold by supporting rebels based in Benghazi, or roughly a third of the way through flights to west Africa. Khmeimim Russian solider guards a military convoy at Hmeimin air base in the Latakia coastal region of Syria - Umit Bektas/Reuters Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Russian An-124 heavy transport aircraft with its nose cone lifted on the ground at Khmeimim air base - Maxar Technologies/via Reuters The Tartus base became Russias main replenishment and repair base in the Mediterranean Sea, giving the Russian navy a safe harbour and hub to project power and influence towards north Africa. The problem for the Kremlin now is that it doesnt have a deal with Syrias new Islamist government, which captured Damascus earlier this month, to allow it to keep control of these two bases. Samuel Ramani, an associate fellow at the RUSI think tank and the author of the book Russia in Africa, described the collapse of Assads regime as a geopolitical and status defeat for Russia that not only creates logistical problems but undermines its reputation with pro-Kremlin dictators in Africa. The Syrian model of counter-insurgency based on authoritarian stability was Russias main offering to autocracies in crisis in Africa, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even Kremlin insiders have started to concede that the collapse of the Assad regime in 11 days means that Russia needs to rein in its global ambitions, and perhaps accept its role as a regional power. The collapse of the former Syria is bad news for Russia since its military presence there significantly expanded Moscows space of action in both the Middle East and Africa, wrote Fyodor Lukyanov, a Russian foreign affairs analyst. Last week, Russian forces in Syria were videoed pulling back from smaller forward operating bases to Khmeimim and Tartus. Rebels have been told not to attack Russian forces, but the Kremlin has said that it has not yet secured a hard deal to keep the bases. And, as John Foreman, a former Royal Navy officer who previously served as British military attache to Russia, explains, there are not many decent alternatives to these two bases as resupply and power-project points for the Kremlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Libyan air bases are a poor substitute for Khmeimim in terms of facilities, runways, location, and security, he said. Russia has some leverage in east Libya, but it is reliant on getting permission from its allies there to use their harbours and air bases. This week US officials said that the Kremlin was in talks to upgrade port facilities in Libya. It has also flown out air defence systems from its bases in Syria to Libya. In Sudan, Russia is effectively sponsoring both sides in a civil war and is still trying to negotiate access to Port Sudan on the Red Sea. Both options are far more complicated, expensive and fragile than shifting kit and men through the Syrian bases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which brings us back to west Africa. Fall in Russian activity predicted In Bamako, Malis capital, Ulf Laessing, director of the Sahel programme at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, a German think tank, said that he anticipated a drop-off in Kremlin activity in the region because of the logistical problems created by the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria. Its fair to say that Russia wont be able to expand any further, like Chad which they probably had in their sights, he said. I am also not sure they will be able to keep their current operations in Mali, Niger, Central African Republic or Burkina Faso at the same level. Essentially, the unravelling of Putins pet project in Syria, less than 10 years after his much-heralded intervention there, threatens to undermine his operations in Africa too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, Kaja Kallas, the EUs foreign affairs commissioner, said she was determined to convince Syrias new government to close Russias bases to cut the Kremlins influence in Africa. Syria was always the Achilles heel of the Kremlins African project. And Putins enemies know this. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Starting in 2025, travelers will be impacted by international travel updates, as well as by changes in domestic flight ID rules for U.S. flyers. Meanwhile, advantageous customer protections are finally being locked into place, and some airlines have announced welcome cabin overhauls. REAL ID status for domestic air travel Domestic air travel in the United States changes on May 7, 2025, with the long-heralded introduction of the REAL ID. After multiple delays since the act was first introduced in 2007, the new federal law concerning the use of drivers licenses and government-issued identification cards at airport security checks looks as though it will finally be implemented. These days, most newly issued ID cards are REAL ID-compliant, but travelers with older documents will need to check with their issuing state agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More information about REAL ID in each state is available on the Department of Homeland Security website. The paperwork required to apply varies by state but will likely include proof of identity, status as a US resident or citizen, a Social Security number, and proof of a current address. Valid passports, of course, remain a legal form of identification for domestic and international travel. Entering the UK with ETA Further changes for U.S. citizens heading to the United Kingdom are happening with the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program. From January 8, 2025, ETA registration will be required by inbound travelers from the U.S. and Europe. Modeled after the United States Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system, the ETA allows UK authorities to screen visitors before arrival, the idea being to reduce security risks and streamline border entry. The ETA is not a visa, and it does not replace any existing visa requirements. U.S. citizens planning to travel to the UK on or after January 8 should apply through the UK government's official website or the ETA app. A United Kingdom ETA costs 10, or approximately $13. Once received, the ETA is valid for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year period. How to navigate Europes new entry and exit requirements Although no exact date has yet been announced, 30 European countries will start to enforce the European Unions European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in 2025. This new authorization process will require people from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including U.S. citizens, to have travel authorization when entering 30 European countries. Similar to the UKs ETA program, the ETIAS does not replace any existing visa requirements, but looks to improve security in Europes Schengen Area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travelers who are granted ETIAS travel authorization can enjoy multiple entries to the participating countries for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days across a 180-day period. The ETIAS is valid for up to three years, and a new ETIAS travel authorization is required if a passport expires. This will work in tandem with the new Entry/Exit System (EES), which will register biometric data at passport control to for both visa-free and visa-required travelers entering Europe for short stays. The EES does not require any action from travelers. (Related: Everything you need to know about EES) New consumer protections for U.S. air travel The last elements of the final rule from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) are being implemented. Announced in April 2024, the final rule no longer allows U.S. airline operators to decide when refunds might be appropriate after significant changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That term has now been defined for the first time and includes: departure or arrival times that are changed by more than three hours (domestic) and six hours (international); changes in airport or the number of connections; cabin downgrades; or problems with accessibility for travelers with disabilities. There are also new compensation rules for significantly delayed baggage or extra services ( like Wi-Fi that were paid for but not delivered. The DOT has also worked with the Federal Trade Commission to ban hidden junk fees for families that wish to be seated together. The new online U.S. passport renewal system Since September 2024, it has been possible for U.S. citizens to renew their passports online rather than in person. The system is now fully operational, as long as applicants fulfill some basic requirements. For example, the holder must live in the United States and be over the age of 25. Their passport must have been valid for 10 years without any changes in name, gender, or date/place of birth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applicants should create an account at MyTravelGov and navigate to the process via the Renew Your Passport button. Updates via email on the status of applications are available after one week, and applicants will be notified about queries and approvals, as well as when the new passport is being dispatched. Airline news you should know about There hasnt been a specific date announced yet, but American Airlines will likely roll out its new Flagship Suites business class product in 2025. Improved amenities will include greater comfort, privacy doors, wireless charging, and Bluetooth capability. Frontier Airlines will be offering a brand new first class cabin, due to be available in late 2025. Good news, too, for Delta customers, as the airline will be upgrading its cabins fleet-wide, starting with the Boeing 757 aircraft before the Airbus A350 models. JetBlue will open branded lounges at New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Terminal 5 in late 2025 and at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Terminal C soon after. (Related: Heres what to know about ETIAS) Paul Oswell is a travel journalist based in New Orleans. He wrote the books "Bucket List: North America" and "The Great American Road Trip," and his byline has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure, and The Guardian. The latest United Nations data as estimated by Worldometer has projected that Nigeria will have a population of 237,527,782 by 2025. According to the report, the forecast will be an increase from 235,072,214 recorded in December 2024. The statistics showed that between 2023 and 2024, the countrys population increased by 4,796,533. This is as the U.S. Census Bureau estimates released Monday, the world population increased by more than 71 million people in 2024. This is a slight slowdown from the 75 million increase witnessed in 2023. Nigerian population 2025 Worldometers report said Nigerias population is equivalent to 2.85% of the total world population and the country ranks number six in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population. The data places the most populated cities to be Lagos with 15,388,000 people, Kano 4,910,000, Ibadan 3,649,000, Abuja 2,690,000 and Port Harcourt 2,120,000. 53.9 % of the population is urban (125,447,884 people in 2024). The population density in Nigeria is 255 per Km2 (662 people per mi2) and the total land area is 910,770 Km2 (351,650 sq. miles), the report said. The median age in Nigeria is 17.9 years while the life expectancy at birth for both sexes is 54.6 years. Females have a life expectancy of 54.9 years at birth while that of males is 54.3 years, the report said. The data projected the world population to reach 8.09 billion people on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Morocco achieved significant diplomatic gains in 2024, with Frances recognition of its sovereignty over the Sahara territory, ushering a new momentum in the Kingdoms struggle to safeguard its territorial integrity and historic rights. In July, French president Emmanuel Macron sent to King Mohammed VI a letter stating that the present and the future of the Sahara lie within the Kingdoms sovereignty. Macron said France will act domestically and internationally in defense of this new position. The French position, as a former colonial power, who has been involved in the ins and outs of Moroccos partition, sent shockwaves in favor of Moroccos decades-long struggle to win international recognition and redress the damage left by colonialism in the region. The visit by Macron to Rabat end of last October added an economic aspect to the strengthened Moroccan-French ties, with the signing of investment projects worth over 10 billion euros, including some that cover the Sahara. France thus became the second security council member to back Morocco on the Sahara issue after the US, amid a growing momentum in favor of the autonomy plan proposed by Rabat in 2007 as a lasting political solution to the artificial dispute. Countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Israel, over 29 African countries, 19 EU countries and an increasing number of Latin American countries have backed Moroccos autonomy plan. In 2024, Chad became the 30th country to open a consulate in the Sahara territory, giving their support for Moroccos historic rights a tangible aspect. In Latin America, Morocco won in 2024 the support of Ecuador and Panama for the autonomy plan with both countries suspending ties with the Algeria-backed Polisario separatist group. The Dominican Republic took a similar decision. As the year draws to a close, the Paraguayan parliament passed a resolution fully backing Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara and urging the government to act accordingly. Worth mentioning that the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino), the Central American Parliament (Parlacen), the Mercosur Parliament (Parlasur), and the Andean Parliament signed a joint declaration with Morocco to strengthen strategic relations and support Moroccos geostrategic role. At the UN, the security council adopted a new resolution renewing the mandate of the peace keeping mission while adopting a language that aligns with Moroccos strategic goals to find a political solution to the conflict in line with the autonomy plan. The resolution calls on Algeria to return to the round-table process and describes Moroccos autonomy plan as serious and credible. Morocco is expected to build on its achievements to bring the Sahara issue to a final close on the basis of an autonomy plan that is garnering support internationally. The latest remarks made by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune before the lawmakers of the two chambers of the Parliament show the deep predicament of a delusional regime sensing that its days are numbered following the collapse of Assad dictatorship. At a time international observers were expecting a detente in Algerian-French relations amid swirling rumors of an imminent release of writer Boualem Sansal and an appeasement in Algerian-Moroccan relations with the return of Trump to the White House, Tebboune chooses the path of escalation, pushing his country to the edge of a cliff. His paranoid and virulent speech is not out of character. He lashed out at France for its colonial legacy and bloody war of independence, demanding an official apology. But the main reason behind the Algerian regimes escalating rhetoric is the support of Paris to Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty over its Sahara. In a letter sent to King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron said: For France, this territorys present and future fall under Moroccos sovereignty, affirming that the Autonomy plan offered by the North African Kingdom is the ONLY solution to the Sahara regional conflict. France joined the United States and over twenty European Union countries including Spain, Germany and Netherlands in backing Moroccos territorial integrity. Paris refusal to reverse or put on hold its stand has irked extremely the Algerian military junta, de factor rulers, facing a growing popular uproar in social media networks heralding the return of the pro-democracy Hirak movement demanding regime change. At a time the international community is recognizing the Moroccanness of the Sahara and supporting the Royal Atlantic initiatives seeking to foster regional peace, shared prosperity and stability, the Algerian regime continues to cling to an obsolete position, failing to adapt to geopolitical changes taking place. Tebboune continues his absurd statistics and embarrassing statements about his countrys economic performance, unemployment rate, desalination capacitybut his duplicitous figures, exaggerations and lies prompt widespread derision, undermining further the countrys image and its credibility. The Algerian regimes inability to adopt a new diplomatic discourse and respond to social expectations casts doubts over its capacity to reinvent itself to weather the storm that is gathering forces. According to some analysts, the question is no longer how long the Algerian rulers will hold but rather when the implosion of their country will occur? Algeria is currently suffering from a growing diplomatic isolation and deepening social, economic & political crises, while Tebbounes speech demonstrates that their ostrich policy has reached its ultimate limits. The Court of Appeal in Nouakchott, Mauritania, has decided to establish a specialized medical team to assess the health condition of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz. This decision comes amid ongoing legal proceedings and concerns over the former leaders health, as raised by his family and legal representatives. In a live broadcast on December 30, relatives of Ould Abdel Aziz revealed that the Court had agreed to suspend trial sessions for a week to allow for the medical evaluation. The courts decision was made in consultation with Ould Abdel Aziz, ensuring his cooperation in the matter. According to a statement from his defense team, a medical report prepared by Mauritanian doctors indicated that Ould Abdel Aziz requires an urgent and complex knee surgery. The defense emphasized the necessity of this procedure, citing its importance for his health and well-being. The former president, who led Mauritania from 2009 to 2019, has been facing legal challenges, including allegations of corruption and embezzlement during his tenure. His trial has garnered significant public and media attention, reflecting the broader implications of holding former leaders accountable in Mauritanias evolving political and judicial landscape. The courts decision to prioritize the former presidents health highlights a commitment to ensuring humane treatment within the judicial process. However, the suspension of the trial sessions has also raised questions about the potential impact on the pace and trajectory of the proceedings. Morocco and Mauritania are poised to enhance their cooperation in the sector of fisheries as both sides share the same commitment to inject fresh momentum into collaboration on shared interests related to the sector. Means to give a new impetus to this cooperation were reviewed at a meeting in Rabat Monday between Secretary of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries, Zakia Driouich, and Mauritanian Ambassador to Morocco, Ahmed Ould Bahia. These talks follow the recent meeting in Casablanca between King Mohammed VI and visiting President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani that paved the way for a deeper and more dynamic partnership and signaled a potential unprecedented boom in bilateral relations in the months ahead. Zakia Driouich and Ahmed Ould Bahia lauded the deep and historic ties binding the two nations, and recalled that the first fisheries agreement was signed in 2000. Their talks centered on key areas of collaboration, including maritime training, scientific and technical research, aquaculture, resource management and development, as well as the processing and marketing of fishery products. They also addressed strategies for combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, enhancing maritime rescue capabilities, and fostering the exchange of expertise and best practices Talks further covered agreements to host Mauritanian students in Moroccan training institutions specializing in fisheries, promote economic cooperation, and facilitate networking among stakeholders in the two countries. Both parties agreed to fast-track the implementation of the March 2022 cooperation agreement through a meeting of the joint sectoral commission, as well as inviting Mauritania to the 7th edition of the Halieutis Fair. Mechanisms for addressing shared challenges, such as the sustainable exploitation of small pelagic species, implementing biological rest periods for certain species, and preserving marine resources in the face of environmental impacts on ecosystems were also brought up during the talks. Diplomatic ties between Morocco and Syria seem to be heading towards a warming up following phone talks Monday between the two countries Foreign Ministers Nasser Bourita and Asaad Al-Shibani. The announcement was made by the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The phone talks between the two officials focused on the strong and promising bilateral partnership between Morocco and Syria, the Syrian Foreign Ministry said on its website. During the conversation, Nasser Bourita expressed Moroccos support for the Syrian people, as well as for Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity. Additionally, both officials emphasized the need to strengthen diplomatic relations to serve the common interests of the two countries. This phone call follows more than a decade of strained relations between the two countries. In 2012, Morocco severed diplomatic ties with Syria in response to the violent crackdown by the Syrian regime on anti-government protests that began in 2011, which later escalated into a full-scale civil war. Morocco also closed its embassy in Damascus and expelled Syrian diplomats from Rabat, partly due to Syrias support for the Algeria-backed Polisario separatist Front. Since then, Morocco has maintained a cautious position on Syria, supporting the countrys territorial integrity while refraining from direct involvement in the Syrian conflict. Moroccos approach has been rooted in the belief that Syrias future stability should be determined internally, without foreign interference, a cautious, yet constructive, approach reflecting Moroccos broader foreign policy priorities: the preservation of regional stability, respect for national sovereignty, and a commitment to Arab unity. Despite criticism of the Assad regimes handling of the uprising, Morocco has sought ways to help stabilize the region without getting entangled in the internal politics of Syria. This is evident in Moroccos call for Syrias return to the Arab Leaguenot as a way to legitimize the regime, but as a means of reducing foreign influence and promoting internal reconciliation within Syria. Earlier in December, after the fall of the Assad regime, Bourita had said the Kingdom was closely following the accelerated and significant developments in the situation in Syria. He had said that Moroccos position regarding Syria, in line with the directives of King Mohammed VI, has always been clear, concerning the preservation of territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and the unity of the Syrian people. This has been and will remain the consistent position of the Kingdom of Morocco. Oh little kitty, I am so sorry 8 is so young. My boys are turning 8 next year and I cant imagine a world where thats all I get. Reply Thread Link awww, i was looking into a celebrity beyond sailing next year just so i could sail with captain kate. poor kitty :( hope she didn't suffer. i was on a cruise last week and some guy fell/jumped from one of our sister ships the day after christmas. just awful all around. Reply Thread Link Was that the guy on the Epic? At first it was reported that it was a child, but even if it was a man, it was still terrible. A woman tried to jump off a Princess ship just before Christmas but didn't make it to the water she fell on a lower deck, which actually happened on Virgin once, too. Someone jumped off a balcony right after the ship left Miami and then fell into a crowded area outside the pizza restaurant and hit someone on their way down :( Reply Parent Thread Link yes, the epic! i www on the bliss and everybody was talking about it. i know quite a lot of people ended up seeing the mans body floating past before the ship was able to stop and i cannot imagine how traumatic that would be to experience. a quarter of the passengers on my cruise were kids and i figure it was probably the same for the epic :( i read about the lady on the princess cruisei think both people were traveling in large family groups too. i cant imagine how devastating it must be for their families. Reply Parent Thread Link a seafaring Golden Retriever aboard Icon of the Seas, but does not belong to the captain, though he does have a full-time staff member assigned to him. how do i get this job Reply Thread Link https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2024/02/19/photos-show-the-cabin-dog-lives-the-worlds-largest-cruise-ship idk but the handler also gets herself a big cabin for her and the dog to share lmao. Reply Parent Thread Link https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2024/01/18/i-take-care-of-dog-the-worlds-largest-cruise-ship-being-the-chief-dog-officer-dream-job Ok she was a cruise next assistant sales manager (the people you book your next cruise with onboard) before she got promoted to chief of staff for the dog lmao. Ok she was a cruise next assistant sales manager (the people you book your next cruise with onboard) before she got promoted to chief of staff for the dog lmao. Reply Parent Thread Link Losing a pet (or any loved one for that matter) during routine care/anesthesia is such a big fear of mine. :( Rest in peace little one, you were loved and will be missed. Reply Thread Link 8 is tooo young : ( Reply Thread Link Oh no. :( I know it's a very small possibility with any general anesthesia, but how do you cope when you do something that should be simple and easy for your pet's health and you get the worst outcome possible. I hope the kitty's guardian will be okay. Reply Thread Link oh no, a sudden loss like this is so sad :( and 8 is young for a cat! Reply Thread Link Gosh, this is terrible. Was there an underlying condition, or was it the anesthesia? Reply Thread Link Sphynxes are susceptible to a lot of heart-related diseases i think. They have a much shorter life expectancy than normal cats with no pedigree. Reply Parent Thread Link Getting pets taught me just how rough it is to put them under, Im on the fence about taking my cat in for teeth cleaning but I am for sure brushing them for him diligently, aint fucking around with that. Relieved to read your comment as hes not a sphinx! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link R.I.P. Bug Reply Thread Link Aw what a sweet, beautiful kitty. It must be a comfort to know your pet brought so many people happiness. Reply Thread Link This is so sad :( I loved watching the videos of her. Reply Thread Link 8 is so young. :( Poor kitty. I always bawl my eyes out when my pups have to be put under. The staff are kind, but they remind me its routine procedure like that should calm me down. Nothing is guaranteed. Ugh, this makes me so sad. Reply Thread Link If my cat didn't make the plane ride over here I swear I would've walked to the lake and thrown myself in for the gators to eat me Reply Thread Link Colombia is a major producer of oil and gas and is steadily developing its renewable energy industry. In 2016, the South American state launched its Energy Plan 2050, aimed at diversifying the countrys energy mix to include wind power plants, solar PV, and geothermal energy generation, and ensure a reliable energy supply in the coming decades. In 2023, Colombias energy mix consisted of 41.2 percent oil, 22.8 percent natural gas, 11.2 percent coal, 12.5 percent biofuels and waste, and 12 percent hydropower, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). However, it produces around 75 percent of its electricity from renewable energy. The countrys energy demand has grown rapidly in recent years, by around 95 percent between 2000 and 2023, demonstrating the need for the expansion of Colombias renewable energy capacity to meet this need. In October, Colombia launched a new $40-million investment plan for an energy transition, aimed at shifting away from a reliance on fossil fuels. The plan includes financing for nature conservation, such as ecotourism, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem restoration. It also covers clean energy projects and aims for the electrification of transport. The Environment Minister, Susana Muhamad, said the plan would be similar to the donor-backed Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) seen in South Africa, Vietnam, Indonesia and Senegal. The government said it was in discussions with the U.K., Germany, Canada, and the EU, as well as the Inter-American Development Bank, about potential funding options. Muhamad stated, We are on the way to consolidating a donor roundtable that will allow us to achieve an important financial package for the country. Since taking office in 2022, left-wing President Gustavo Petro pledged to transition away from oil and gas, which Colombia has long relied on for both power and revenue. Petro has blocked new oil-and-gas drilling and spoken publicly about his aims to reduce production in favour of renewable alternatives. This is seen by many as controversial for a country that is the fifth-largest exporter of coal and an oil and gas producer with large untapped reserves. At the COP28 climate conference in 2023, Petro became the first leader of a large country and the first fossil fuel-producing state to endorse a call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, an idea that had previously only been supported by civil society and small island nations. In 2023, the Colombian government made the groundbreaking move to ban new oil and gas licenses. Irene Velez, the minister for mines, stated at the World Economic Forum, We have decided not to award new oil and gas exploration contracts, and while that has been very controversial, its a clear sign of our commitment in the fight against climate change This decision is absolutely urgent and needs immediate action. However, the government has attempted to revive some existing oil and gas projects to keep developing the industry without the need to approve new licenses. Meanwhile, Colombia has been expanding several of its renewable energy sectors, including clean hydrogen, as well as wind, solar and hydro- power. In April, the World Bank and the Asociacion Hidrogeno Colombia met to discuss the potential for using some of the countrys low-cost solar and wind energy to produce clean hydrogen to power highly polluting heavy industries, such as cement, steel, mining, and chemicals. In 2023, the World Bank approved a $150 million loan to promote Chiles clean hydrogen development, and it expects to help Colombia develop its hydrogen industry through a similar funding scheme. In October, Colombias Energy Ministry announced it had received interest from seven foreign and two local companies in an offshore wind power project, with formal bids expected within the first six months of 2025. The companies include Colombian state oil firm Ecopetrol, the power firm Celsia, Spain's BlueFloat Energy, Denmark's Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Belgium's Jan De Nul and DEME, China's PowerChina and China Three Gorges, and Britain's Dyna Energy, according to the Ministry. The aim of this first round is to assign maritime areas in which can be installed between 1,000 and 3,000 megawatts, the Ministry said in a statement. This process would be the first in Latin America for the generation of offshore wind power, it added. In February, the government awarded new licenses for electricity-generating projects, aiming to increase capacity by 4,489 MW in 2027 and 2028. The Ministry of Mines and Energy assigned 99 percent of the new capacity to solar plants and the remaining 1 percent to thermal biomass plants, repairing a gas plant, building a biomass plant, and expanding a smaller biogas plant. The Ministry said that this move will mean that solar power overtakes thermal energy capacity to contribute 26 percent of the countrys electricity. Colombia is working to diversify its energy mix, supported by national policies aiming for a move away from a reliance on fossil fuels in favour of a green transition under President Petro. The introduction of a $40-million investment plan for an energy transition is expected to attract higher levels of foreign funding to drive the development of Colombias green energy capacity. Meanwhile, the ban on new oil and gas exploration licenses will support a gradual move away from fossil fuels. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com It is coming up to two years since oil exports from the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI) through the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline (ITP) were halted by the Federal Government of Iraq (FGI). Billions of dollars in export revenues have been lost by both sides, in addition to the many foreign oil firms working in the region. However, according to local news sources, on 18 December the Karkh Court of Appeals in Baghdad reversed previous rulings favouring the FGIs Oil Ministry. These had sought to permanently invalidate foreign firms oil exploration and development contracts directly with the KRI government based in Erbil. So does this mean that the costly, long-running embargo on oil exports is about to end? The genesis of the current dispute does not begin in March 2023 when the ban was imposed by the FGI in Baghdad or in February 2022 when the Baghdad-based Federal Supreme Court of Iraq deemed such contracts unconstitutional -- it began instead on 23 April 2013. On that date, the regional parliament of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region of Iraq the KRG passed a bill that would allow it to independently export crude oil from fields located in the region if the FGI failed to pay the KRI its share of oil revenues and exploration costs. A corollary bill to create an oil exploration and production company separate from the FGI and a sovereign wealth fund to take in all energy revenue was approved at the same time by the KRGs cabinet under then-Prime Minister (and now President) Nechirvan Barzani. At that point, the KRI was producing around 350,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) with the rest of Iraqs output standing at around 3.3 million bpd and planned to increase this to 1 million bpd by the end of 2015. In short, it was intended by the KRG in Erbil to give the KRI complete financial independence from the FGI in Baghdad as a precursor to total political independence shortly thereafter, as analysed in my latest book on the new global oil market order. The next phase after independent oil sales were assured by the KRI was a planned referendum on independence. The FGI saw this existential threat to its future extremely seriously as this is what the U.S. and its allies had quietly promised the KRG in exchange for its providing the boots on the ground in the fight against Islamic State at that point, in the shape of the fearsome Kurdish Peshmerga army. Related: Exxon and Chevron Expand Global Hiring Push The FGIs initial reaction was to bring legal action against independent oil exports from the KRG as and when the opportunities arose. July 2014 saw FGI government lawyers file a suit to impound the US$100 million cargo of Kurdish oil aboard the United Kalavryta tanker anchored in the Gulf of Mexico off the U.S. coast. The lawyers insisted that the KRI had sold the oil without the permission of the central government, and that only the FGI had the legal right to export oil from anywhere in Iraq, including the Kurdish region. The U.S. Federal magistrate said that because the tanker was outside U.S. territorial waters, she was unable to order the enforcement order against the tanker or its cargo by U.S. Marshals and that the matter should be settled in Iraq. The FGI took this, and similar rulings on similar cargoes, as evidence that the U.S. was still supportive of the idea of full independence for the KRI and allowing it the financial autonomy through oil exports that this would require. Following these legal setbacks, the FGI concluded a deal in November of that year with the KRI. This would see the central government pay the KRI 17% of the FGIs budget after sovereign expenses (around US$500 million at that time) per month in exchange for the KRG organising the export up to 550,000 bpd of oil from the Iraqi Kurdistan oil fields and Kirkuk to the FGIs State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO). Despite the agreement, neither side had shifted from their core positions relating to oil exports. The KRI wanted all the revenues from oil produced in their territory to lay the financial basis for independence, and the FGI wanted to give it neither. The legal position relating to the Iraqi oil industry and the distribution of its revenue sharing between the KRG area and the FGI did not help to clarify the impasse, with both sides claiming a right to the revenues from the disputed oil flows. According to the KRG, it has authority under Articles 112 and 115 of the Iraq Constitution to manage oil and gas in the Kurdistan Region extracted from fields that were not in production in 2005 - the year that the Constitution was adopted by referendum. In addition, the KRG maintains that Article 115 states: All powers not stipulated in the exclusive powers of the federal government belong to the authorities of the regions and governorates that are not organised in a region. As such, the KRG maintains that, as relevant powers are not otherwise stipulated in the Constitution, it has the authority to sell and receive revenue from its oil and gas exports. Additionally, it argues the Constitution provides that, should a dispute arise, priority shall be given to the law of the regions and governorates. However, the FGI maintains that under Article 111 of the Constitution oil and gas are under the ownership of all the people of Iraq in all the regions and governorates. It was little surprise, then, that the agreement had failed to function effectively within three months of its signing. The KRG accused the FGI of not paying the full amount promised, and the FGI accused the KRG of not supplying the full amount of oil agreed. Matters became even worse in 2017 in the wake of two major developments, detailed in full in my latest book on the new global oil market order. First, there was a huge vote in favour of Kurdish independence in September, following which FGI and Iranian forces took back control of the oilfields in Kurdistan, including the major oil sites around Kirkuk. Second, Russia effectively took over Iraqi Kurdistans oil sector due to three key deals also analysed in full in the book. Moscow sought to leverage this presence in the KRI into a similarly powerful position in the south of the country by casting itself as an intermediary in the ongoing budget disbursements-for-oil deal. Russias mischief-making in the country diminished in 2018, after an understanding was reached between it and China that Moscow would focus more on its interests in Iran and Syria, while Beijing would concentrate more fully on developing its assets in Iraq, in line with its Belt and Road Initiative plan. The agreement between the two powers occurred as China was in the process of formulating its September 2019 Oil for Reconstruction and Investment agreement signed with the FGI in Baghdad, which would be expanded in 2021 to the all-encompassing economic, political, and military Iraq-China Framework Agreement. It remains the case that it is not in Chinas or Russias interest to have a fractious breakaway region with previously strong ties to the U.S. Not only does it make the administration of Iraqs massive oil and gas sector more difficult but also the granting of independence to the Iraqi Kurds might well make the sizeable Kurdish populations in the Middle East restless for the same. The endgame for China, Russia (and Iran) in Iraq is clearly delineated in the 3 August statement last year from Iraq Prime Minister, Mohammed Al-Sudani. He highlighted that the new unified oil law run, in every way that matters, out of Baghdad - will govern all oil and gas production and investments in both Iraq and its autonomous Kurdistan region and will constitute a strong factor for Iraqs unity. Destroying all financial independence for the region, which is reliant on ongoing independent oil supplies, is the key mechanism for achieving this aim. Once this has been done, then the region can simply be rolled back into one unified Iraq. Consequently, it would be extremely unwise to believe that the 18 December decision by the Karkh Court of Appeals against Iraqs Oil Ministry marks a new dawn for the KRI. It might just be the twilight before the sun sets for good on its hopes for independence. More Top Reads From Oilprice.com By Taxpayers Association of Oregon OregonWatchdog.com The Oregonian newspaper this weekend ran a Washington Post story about how people feel the Health Care CEO was to blame for his own assassination. This is so terrible. We are still fresh from the previous Oregonian headline we criticized By justifying the cold-bloodied murder of an innocent man, father of four, you are sending messages that any political murder could possibly be justified. The murder suspect, Luigi Mangione, has signs of mental abuse. These are the types of people the media is sending messages to that murder can be less bad if politically motivated especially progressive politically motivated. Please, let us work for a culture of life. Was this article helpful? If yes,please contribute online to support future articles at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty). This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain About 10 years ago, while working at Badrutt's Palace Hotel in the Swiss town of St Moritz, I was shocked to learn a guest once requested an elephant be brought in to deliver a birthday gift to his wife. And the hotel made it happen, squeezing the elephant into the lobby. This over-the-top gesture symbolized what luxury travel once meant: wealth and power, expressed through grand displays. Think millionaires and billionaires in lavish suites and on private yachts, enjoying exclusive services most of us would never dream of, let alone actually ask for. Consulting group McKinsey defines the luxury traveler as someone prepared to spend US$500 or more per night on accommodation. But luxury tourism is evolving. Thanks to demographic shifts, sustainability concerns, and a post-pandemic desire for connection, luxury travel has become more personal and meaningful. And luxury travelers these days aren't always the super-rich elites. Despite the cost-of-living crisis, luxury travel is booming. So, what's driving this growth and how is luxury travel changing? A trillion dollar industry The luxury travel sector has shown remarkable resilience, even during economic downturns and the COVID pandemic. Globally, it is projected to grow from US$1.4 trillion in 2024 to $2.2 trillion by 2030. The Asia-Pacific region is leading the surge at a compound annual growth rate of 8.6% (a way of measuring growth that assumes profits are reinvested) from 2024 to 2030. In Australia, the trend is similar: the luxury travel market generated US$37.4 billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach US$70 billion by 2032. This growth is driven not just by affluence among the wealthy but by younger travelers. As Forbes magazine points out, these travelers are often non-millionaires who may not earn enormous salaries or even own their own homesbut are willing to pay top dollar for meaningful experiences. And some are splurging on trips to make up for time and opportunities lost due to the pandemica trend industry experts sometimes refer to as "revenge" and "revelry" travel. As one luxury travel industry observer put it: "We're seeing travel at all costs, where people are determined to have the experience they want, regardless of what that price is." Many consumers are prioritizing luxury travel experiences over other discretionary items, including luxury goods. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Luxury can have many meanings Today's luxury travel isn't just about extravagance; it can also include forking out for meaningful experiences. Luxury travelers are willing to pay up for holidays that promise authenticity, wellness and connection with people and places. It can mean access to something rare, like an uncrowded natural environment or an authentic cultural experience that feels deeply personal. It can also come from expertiselike appreciating the nuances of a rare bottle of wine, or touring a place with an expert or celebrity guide who has been there many times before. Where it was once defined by price and status symbols, luxury travel today is about stories worth sharing (on social media and in real life) and experiences that align with personal values. Wellness, adventure and the digital detox In my 17 years of working in and researching luxury travel, I have seen a lot of different luxury holidaymakers. Everything from humble retirees relishing the rewards of their hard work to VIP celebrities who send 32 pages of requests before even stepping foot in the hotel. While older high-net-worth individuals from North America and Europe remain a significant demographic, a growing proportion of luxury travelers are millennials, Gen Z, and tourists from emerging markets like Asia and the Middle East. Traditional hallmarks of luxury travellike presidential suites and private islandsare still popular among high-net-worth individuals. But a growing number of travelers seek cultural experiences, adventure, and small, intimate group trips. These travelers are opting for off-peak seasons and less-visited destinations to avoid crowds, and may be more vocal about sustainable tourism. The future of luxury travel lies in its ability to adapt to evolving consumer values. Wellness retreats, slow travel (including by train), and sustainability-focused experiences are becoming central to the luxury travel narrative. In a hyper-connected world, luxury travel marketing is now often linked with the idea of a digital detox. The chance to disconnect and fully immerse in the moment has become a modern indulgence. Luxury travelers today use their trips to explore and learn, and to reconnect with the world, their relationships, and themselves. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Lunar Trailblazer is planned to launch in early 2025. Credit: Lockheed Martin Space NASA's upcoming Artemis II mission is slated to return astronauts to the moon no sooner than April 2026. Astronauts were last on the moon in 1972 during the Apollo 17 mission. Artemis II will utilize NASA's Space Launch System, which is an extremely powerful rocket that will enable human space exploration beyond Earth's atmosphere. The crew of four will travel in an Orion spacecraft, which the agency launched around the moon and successfully returned during the Artemis I mission. But before Artemis II, NASA will send two missions to scout the surface of the lunar south pole for resources that could sustain human space travel and enable new scientific discoveries. Planetary geologists like me are interested in data from Lunar Trailblazer, one of these two scouting missions. The data from this mission will help us understand how water forms and behaves on rocky planets and moons. Starting with scientific exploration PRIME-1, or the Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment, will be mounted on a lunar lander. It's scheduled for launch in January 2025. Aboard the lander are two instruments: The Regolith and Ice Drill for Exploring New Terrain, TRIDENT, and the Mass Spectrometer for Observing Lunar Operations, MSOLO. TRIDENT will dig down up to 3 feet (1 meter) and extract samples of lunar soil, and MSOLO will evaluate the soil's chemical composition and water content. Joining the lunar mining experiment is Lunar Trailblazer, a satellite launching on the same Falcon 9 rocket. Think of this setup as a multimillion-dollar satellite Uber pool, or a rideshare where multiple missions share a rocket and minimize fuel usage while escaping Earth's gravitational pull. Bethany Ehlmann, a planetary scientist, is the principal investigator of Lunar Trailblazer and is leading an operating team of scientists and students from Caltech's campus. Trailblazer is a NASA Small, Innovative Mission for PLanetary Exploration, or SIMPLEx. These missions intend to provide practical operations experience at a lower cost. Each SIMPLEx mission is capped at a budget of US$55 millionTrailblazer is slightly over budget at $80 million. Even over budget, this mission will cost around a quarter of a typical robotic mission from NASA's Discovery Program. Discovery Program missions typically cost around $300 million, with a maximum budget of $500 million. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly. Building small but mighty satellites Decades of research and development into small satellites, or SmallSats, opened the possibility for Trailblazer. SmallSats take highly specific measurements and complement data sourced from other instruments. Missions like NASAs TROPICS use a network of small satellites to take more data than one satellite would be able to do alone. Credit: NASA Applied Sciences Multiple SmallSats working together in a constellation can take various measurements simultaneously for a high-resolution view of the Earth's or moon's surface. SIMPLEx missions can use these SmallSats. Because they're small and more affordable, they allow researchers to study questions that come with a higher technical risk. Lunar Trailblazer, for example, uses commercial off-the-shelf parts to keep the cost down. These low-cost, high-risk experimental missions may help geologists further understand the origin of the solar system, as well as what it's made of and how it has changed over time. Lunar Trailblazer will focus specifically on mapping the moon. A brief timeline of water discoveries on the moon Scientists have long been fascinated by the surface of our closest celestial neighbor, the moon. As early as the mid-17th century, astronomers mischaracterized ancient volcanic eruptions as lunar mare, derived from the Latin word for "seas." Nearly two centuries later, astronomer William Pickering's calculations suggested that the moon had no atmosphere. This led him to conclude the moon could not have water on its surface, as that water would vaporize. However, in the 1990s, NASA's Clementine mission detected water on the moon. Clementine was the first mission to completely map the surface of the moon, including the lunar poles. This data detected the presence of ice within permanently shadowed regions on the moon in low resolution. Scientists' first water detection prompted further exploration. NASA launched the Lunar Prospector in 1998 and the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter in 2009. The India Space Research Organization launched its Chandrayaan-1 mission with the Moon Mineralogy Mapper, M3, instrument in 2008. M3, although not designed to detect liquid water, unexpectedly did find it in sunlit areas on the moon. These missions collectively provided maps showing how hydrous mineralsminerals containing water molecules in their chemical makeupand ice water are distributed on the lunar surface, particularly in the cold, dark, permanently shadowed regions. Water may arrive on the moon via a few different routes. Credit: Caltech/Lunar Trailblazer Novel mission, novel science But how does the temperature and physical state of water on the moon change from variations in sunlight and crater shadows? Lunar Trailblazer will host two instruments, the Lunar Thermal Mapper, LTM, and an evolution of the M3 instrument, the High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper, HVM3. The LTM instrument will map surface temperature, while the HVM3 will measure how lunar rocks absorb light. These measurements will allow it to detect and distinguish between water in liquid and ice forms. In tandem, these instruments will provide thermal and chemical measurements of hydrous lunar rock. They'll measure water during various times of the lunar day, which is about 29.5 Earth days, to try to show how the chemical composition of water varies depending on the time of day and where it is on the moon. These results will tell researchers what phasesolid or liquidthe water is found in. Scientific significance and what's next There are three leading theories for where lunar water came from. It could be water that's been stored inside the moon since its formation, in its mantle layer. Some geologic processes may have allowed it to slowly escape to the surface over time. Or, the water may have arrived on asteroids and comets that collided with the lunar surface. It may even have been created by interactions with the solar wind, which is a stream of particles that comes from the sun. Lunar Trailblazer may shed light on these theories and help researchers make progress on several other big science questions, including how water behaves on rocky bodies like the moon and whether future astronauts will be able to use it. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. OCEAN TOWNSHIP Allison and Scott Duncan were in town for the holidays when they told their group of friends they wanted to try a local brewery. When the couple, who now live near Houston, arrived in the parking lot of Oyster Creek Brewing Company in Waretown, they were a little surprised to find the brewery nestled between a pizza place and a spiritual shop. Oftentimes, if theres a place in a strip mall, sometimes people are like, Nah, I dont want to check that place out. Usually when I come into places like that, I have a good time, said Scott Duncan, 30, who grew up in Wall Township, Monmouth County. So I would say dont judge a book by its cover. Since 2018, Oyster Creek Brewing, named after the nearby decommissioned nuclear plant, has been serving Ocean County residents in that little shopping center on Route 9. The 1,200-square-foot brewery is owned by Kris and Colleen Lewis. As with many brewery origin stories, Kris was a home brewer who turned his passion into a business. He also works as an audio engineer when hes not at the brewery, which is open to the public Wednesday to Sunday each week. Colleen runs the front end of the business, from merchandising to events. They also have a salesperson who handles distribution throughout Ocean County and parts of Atlantic County, and another person who helps run the taps. On Thursday, Kris Lewis was a one-man show. About 30 minutes before unlocking the front doors, he was cleaning his equipment and the barrels he uses to produce his beer. Passers-by peaked in through the glass door minutes before Lewis opened. Shortly after the doors unlocked, Lewis was behind the bar serving up one of his flagship beers Critical Mass, a hazy New England-style IPA to one of his local regulars, Tom Smith. The atmosphere, the conversation and the beer are what keep Smith coming back. Hes an IPA guy, and Critical Mass is one of his favorites. Veteran- and woman-owned Lacey Township brewery closes Backward Flag Brewing Company closed last month after nine years in Forked River, the brewery announced last month on Facebook. Ive been coming since they opened (in 2018), Smith said. Its always easy to talk to people here, whether its behind the bar or at a table. Not too long after, the Duncans walked in and saved a spot for the rest of their party. Its unassuming from the outside, but when you come in, the lights are really cool, said Allison Duncan, 28. It has a very cozy vibe. Lewis says the vibe at the brewery is very communal. People may come in by themselves, and next thing they know, they overhear a conversation, join in, and now strangers are sharing a beer together. We have a lot of people who made friends here who they never knew before they sat down to have a beer with them, said Kris Lewis, 48, who grew up in Barnegat Township and is a graduate of Southern Regional High School. The Oyster Creek plant, named after the creek that surrounds the facility in Lacey Township, went into commission in December 1963 and closed in September 2018. When Lewis wanted to open his own brewery in 2018, he looked a mile down the road and drew inspiration from the plant. The nuclear plant is present in the name as well as the brewerys two logos. I was just brainstorming in my backyard while home brewing and could see the cooling tower up the road, Lewis said, and I went, You know, Oyster Creek could be a good name for a brewery. And then I started throwing names around with friends for what I could call the beers. Many of the 17 beers on tap draw inspiration from nuclear power. Theres the Yellow Cake Cream Ale, Critical Mass NEIPA and the Darkmatter Vanilla Porter, all flagship beers. There are also small-batch brews on tap this month, like Marie Curie Strawberry Cheesecake Imperial Cream Ale, 3-Eyed Fish (a nuclear Simpsons reference), Swedish Fish Gose and Plutonium 94 Black IPA. Forgotten Boardwalk to close Cherry Hill brewery Forgotten Boardwalk Brewing Company, which opened 10 years ago in Camden County, cites unsuccessful lease negotiations as the cause of it shuttering its brewery next month. All 17 beers are canned up in singles, so visitors can make mixed four packs to go. Most breweries sell their takeaway beer in four- and six-packs of one single beer, so this allows customers to bring home a larger variety at a similar price, Lewis said. Lewis loves to brew some oddball concoctions, which are popular with his regular customers. One of his beers, Cosmic Oddity, is a berry smoothie sour ale, an idea he said he got from Heavy Reel Brewing in Seaside Heights. Lewis even motivates drinkers to think outside the box. He has a chalkboard on the wall, and patrons will experiment by mixing two beers together to create something new and fun to drink. Our ability to have variety kept people coming back, Lewis said of the brewerys early days. When Oyster Creek opened, Lewis only had two kettles that carried about 1.5 barrels at a time, which essentially made it a nanobrewery (under five barrels). He now has two 5-barrel unit tanks for fermentation and carbonation, and four 3-barrel plastic tanks, where the beer made will then get transferred into a keg for carbonation. Lewis has a storage unit out back where he keeps grain, other dry ingredients and a small canning machine. Lewis said 2024 was a good year for Oyster Creek, despite it being not as friendly for other places around the state, including a handful of businesses that have closed in South Jersey, such as Backward Flag Brewing Company in Lacey and Forgotten Boardwalk in Cherry Hill. Expansion is eventually on the horizon, Lewis added. Were just waiting for the right opportunity, he said. The Three Challenges for 'Liberated' Syria (AINA) -- 'Syria is free'; thus screamed the Syrians as they celebrated the tumbling down of the criminal regime during a whole week. Thousands, even millions, of Syrians strolled the streets of the entire major cities of Syria. They were from all societal segments, strata, trends, genders, religious beliefs and non-religious ones, convictions, sects, confessions, parties, and orientations. Syria lived an unforgettable week of victorious elation, euphoria, and historical liberation; a week that will never be erased from the history of this extremely old and historical land. Today, in the post-victory day, the question concerning the forthcoming is what curves inside the Syrians' conflicted feelings, swinging from extreme optimism down to dire pessimism. What the Syrians need to perceive, nevertheless, is that politics, states-forming, and re-netting the societal textile of a torn-apart nation are not achieved by means of emotions and sentiments, nor are they determined by means of either optimism or pessimism. In the following, I shall display three a priori factors, which the Syrian public must pay piercing attention to in their journey towards reconstructing their country. They are three descriptive and analytical points that endeavors to deconstruct the scene and anatomize it by means of an intellectually objective, critical, and awareness-raising precision. Civil Politics First, one must never undermine the fact that, throughout the past five decades, Syria was a politics-free zone, where the country did not have any form of political civil activeness. Syria al-Asad, the father and the son alike, worked systematically and categorically towards eliminating all sorts of diversified political plurality and trends of reasoning. Al-Asads Baath regimes either squashed other political parties or they domesticated and subdued them. They also fulfilled this elimination of politics vis-a-vis exerting barbaric violence from the police and security forces over all forms of civil and political trends and movements that used to exist historically in the country, and they used to represent different and diverse views and discourses. The Syrian public square was suppressed and then sanitized from every civil movement and political activity; the strategy that prevented five generations of Syrians from creating any political thought, or from enjoying any ability to practice natural political rationalization or assessment. The idea of 'politics' in the Syria mind was narrowed down to the concepts of 'power' and 'power game' alone. This is why, the forthcoming Syria urgently needs the creation of a political sphere wherein the Syrians would be freely able to develop their own political minds. Otherwise, the Syrians would succumb passively to the domination of the solo power-controlling voice that exists alone in the public square at the moment, namely the voice of 'Jabhat al-Nusra' and its leader 'Abu Muhammad al-Joulani'. And, the Syrians would instinctively deem the power-control and its games are the exclusive natural manifestations of politics and political activism. This would, eventually, surrender the public square to the monastic Islamist voice, which now seizes power and authority, to brain-wash the minds and to impose its exclusive and singular control and dictatorship over the civil thought and practices alike. Liberation Versus Freedom Second, when the Syrian people rebelled against the regime, 'freedom' was one of the foundational principals the revolution's public called and struggled for and paid for its sake highest prices of oppression, elimination, detention and uprooting during the past years. What the Syrians achieved today is actually 'liberation', and they did not yet achieve 'freedom'. There is an essential political, civil, societal, and state-based difference between liberation, on one side, and freedom, on another. Syria is liberated today from the regime of criminality, oppression, tyranny, and corruption. Yet, the road of freedom, its understanding, practice, and transformation into a criterion for the process of state's building and administration, is still long, full of obstacles, and its end is unknown, and we do not yet know whether the Syrians would be able to tread onto it and reach its final destination or not in tomorrow's Syria. One of the constitutive features of freedom's application in states and societies manifests in the factors of plurality and diversity. The forthcoming Syrian society and state needs to be pluralist and diversified par excellence. For, Syria is by default a sophisticated, interpenetrated, and very wealthy mosaic of communities, cultures, religions, sects and confessions, intellectual trends, and political views. No alternative ruling entity is entitled to hijack the country and deprives it of such diversity or marginalizes other voices and views, no matter how powerful it was, and no matter which international and regional force stands behind it, and no matter what is the agenda and ideology it endeavors to impose on the Syrian context. In order to live in freedom, the Syrian peoples need to be exposed to diverse voices, discourses and stances that echo its own substantial plurality, diversity and colorful sociological textile. We must not allow one, single, monastically hegemonic voice, whatever it was, to dominate over the scene or to brain-wash the public square upon the claim that it is the voice of religious, numerical, sectarian, cultural, linguistic, or ideological majority. Freedom is the pillar of democracy, and the essence of democracy is harmony in the heart of diversity and difference. Without this, the Syrians endures no chance to perceive, live, and practice in a 'free' Syria, and not just a 'liberated' Syria. Revolution in Peril Third, finally, in the light of the two above mentioned factors, we are obliged to say that the Syrian revolution, which was generated by the hands of the free, civil, harmless, and innocent Syrians, has not achieve victory yet, and I fear that it might witness defeat in the near future. The Syrians know that 'Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham' (The Board of al-Sham's Liberation) was not historically representative of the Syrian revolution. During the past years, this entity used to exert systematic intimidation, detention, and even persecution against the civil Syria rebels, and it withstood their calls for freedom, democracy, civil society, seculariism, justice, rule of law and constitution and human rights. Al-Joulani's Board of al-Sham's Liberation not only withstood the civil rebels, but also had field-combats against the 'Free Syrian Army' phalanges. And, when it ended up securing American-European support and back-up to establish sort-or a semi-state-like entity in the vicinity of Edlib, it practiced in that incubated Islamist-state miniature policies and strategies that are totally opposite to what the civil Syrian revolution vouched and espoused for. Today, by means of an international and regional decision-making reinforcement, 'The Board of al-Sham's Liberation' and its leader, became the only absolute despotic player on the Syrian arena. It was made the hero that tumbled the regime down, and it is now ruling as an alternative ruling power in the name of no other than the Syrian revolution which it withstood in the previous years. The Syrian revolution have not yet achieved its goals or fulfilled its principals. Therefore, one cannot truly say at the moment that the true civil Syrian revolution is victorious. What counts as crucial in the ensuing period, however, is not to witness the defeat and failure of this revolution. For, though it has not achieved a victory yet, it has not experienced still a defeat and brokenness. The Syria civil, democratic, free, and secular rebels are still striving and persevering, and they try to raise their voices as loud as possible in the public square, upon the hope that one day the revolution will triumph. The road still truly lies ahead in its complication, hardship, challenges, and surprises. The Syrians' journey towards achieving their dream of state and society is still waiting ahead. The crucial thing now is that the Syrians are liberated from a Nazi-like regime and they throw the black past in the garbage of history. This is an English translation the author composed and published in Arabic language in Nida' al-Watan Lebanese Newspaper. Hungary Announces Support for Syrian Christians Hungary State Secretary for the Aid of Persecuted Christians Azbej Tristan recently announced on social media that Hungary is ready to assist in the protection of the Christian minority in Syria. In a post on X, Tristan announced the immediate measures the Hungarian government has taken to protect the ancient Christians communities in Syria, especially in Aleppo. "Syrian Christians can count on Hungary. @HungaryHelps have been closely monitoring developments in Syria, particularly the situation of Christians. We've been receiving both troubling and hopeful news," the Hungarian minister wrote. "The new Syrian leadership made promises regarding the protection of the rights of religious minorities," said Tristan, but noted that "Islamist threats, burned-down Christmas trees have also been reported." In response, through an emergency fund, Hungary has provided $15,000 in immediate humanitarian aid that will be delivered to the Melkite Church in Syria, and $50,000 to support the efforts of the Syriac Orthodox Church to assist Christian refugees in Lebanon. In the long term, the Hungarian government "will enable the construction of a new church at the Syriac Orthodox Church's Damascus center, along with the development of educational and community infrastructure," Tristan said. "Beyond providing immediate relief to their suffering," said the secretary in the full statement, "we consider it particularly important to ensure that Christ's followers remain in the cradle of Christianity for the long term." He concluded, "We believe that the solution is not to bring people in need to Europe, but to take the help to wherever it's needed." Police hunt down Tulum fraudster selling fake event tickets for 4,500 pesos Tulum, Q.R. Police in Tulum arrested a man Monday after being reported for selling fake event tickets. The unnamed man was reported for selling the counterfeit tickets for 4,500 pesos each. When he was arrested, police found over 22,000 in cash. Elements of the Secretariat of Public Security and Citizen Protection of Tulum made the arrest with support from the Navy and National Guard after receiving an anonymous tip. Using details of the fraud and physical description of the man provided by the tipster, authorities were able to locate him. He was found driving his BMW on Coba Avenue. The car he was driving had State of Morelos license plates. The driver was pulled over and inspected at which time police found a stash of counterfeit tickets and bracelets for music events around Tulum. According to police, he was selling them for 4,500 pesos each. Duringt his arrest, he was also found carrying 22,500 pesos in cash, allegedly obtained from the sale of the fake tickets. Police found counterfeit tickets and bracelets for Tulum music events as well as 22,500 in cash. Police said the successful operation was the result of an anonymous complaint alerting authorities about the sale of the fake event tickets. Authorities in Tulum say that this type of fraud affects not only the people buying the tickets, but also the reputation of Tulum as a prominent destination and uurge citizens and tourists to purchase tickets at official points of sale. J. Mark Powell is VP of Communications at Ivory Tusk Consulting, a former TV journalist and author of the political thriller Tell It Like Tupper. Dear Prudence is Slates advice column. Delia Cai is filling in as Prudie for Jenee Desmond-Harris while shes on parental leave. Submit questions here. Dear Prudence, I need help admitting I was wrong and asking for help. My mom and I used to be close, but when I got engaged, we fought bitterly because she didnt like him and warned me about some of his red flags. I was in love and I told her to take a hike. I made the mistake of also telling him, and he insisted we cut her off. Shortly before the wedding, she wrote me an email to tell me she loved me and that she was sorry. Her relationship with my dad was really bad, and she felt like she couldnt afford to leave for a long time. She said she was setting aside a divorce fund, a bank account for me. I was angry and insulted and I never responded. We havent talked since, nearly three years. I think about her all the time. She was right. Im not going to get into the details but I need to leave, and my husband has cut me off from most of my friends and family. I quit my job when my daughter was born because we cant afford daycare so Im really stuck. I would need money to leave that I dont have. I know I need to reach out to my mom but it feels like Im just using her for the money if I admit it now. I miss her so much, and I hate that she was right. I dont know how to start. What do I do? Sad Daughter Dear Sad Daughter, First, give yourself some grace for exercising your independence and making your own life choices without needing your mothers approval. Thats a stage of adulthood many people never reach, because it is terrifying to hold oneself accountable for ones own decisions. Youre going through this right now. It sounds like that self-reliance is one of your strongest qualities, which is why you are dealing with a lot of personal shame about making the wrong choice in marrying your partner. You need to forgive yourself for the fact that this marriage didnt pan out as you hoped. You cant beat yourself up about not seeing the signs or not listening to other peoples warnings; you simply did the best you could as someone who wasnt afraid to do what she wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that it sounds like your mother (eventually) decided to respect your autonomy while also making sure you knew there would be a cushion available if you ever changed your mind. Thats pretty excellent parenting, even if it was imperfectly executed. I imagine she understands that she raised a fiercely independent daughter, and that a clash like this is inevitable when you have a headstrong child. Turning your shame in asking for her help into a sense of profound appreciation for this autonomy and the way your mother has nurtured it, might help you feel more comfortable accepting the lifeline she has extended you. When youre ready, reach out to your mother over email or on the phone with a simple message: First, thank her for raising someone who wasnt afraid to take risks. Tell her how important it was for you to be able to disagree with her and to make mistakes of your own, and that you are grateful she respected your decisions at the time. Youre making a new decision nowto leave this marriageand you are asking for her love and support. Admit (even if only to yourself) that asking for those things feels shameful because autonomy is so important to you. But theres nothing braver than asking for what you need, especially from someone who cares deeply about you. And between you and me, theres simply nothing a concerned mother ever wants to hear more than: I love you, and I need you. Advertisement Get advice from Prudiesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear Prudence, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Dear Prudence following up) Submit Dear Prudence, Im getting married this spring. My partner and I are foregoing a traditional registry, asking instead for charitable donations and a small honeymoon fund. His parents are MAGA conservativeswere the opposite. I feel strongly about fundraising for reproductive rights, among other causes. He worries that this would offend them. Advertisement Im conflicted: I wouldnt walk into their home and espouse my views on abortion access, but this doesnt feel analogous. Its a registry, posted on a website to 100-plus guests. Theyll have several other gifting options. More importantly, I have no intention of hiding my views from his parents for the rest of my life. My partner and I plan to become parents, and I cant pretend Im devoutly pro-life if we encounter complications in our pregnancy. Im torn: This cause is deeply personal to me. I dont know how to tell my fiance that I dont really care if his parents are offended. Is it worth it? Pro-Choice, Anti-Drama Dear Anti-Drama, While I respect the commitment to your personal politicsand your willingness to stand up to your incoming in-lawsI am not convinced you want to pick this exact battle. Weddings are messy and stressful negotiations between the bride, groom, and all families involved, even if youre not juggling different belief systems. Do you really want to layer on more conflict ahead of the big day? This isnt so much a question of whether its worth offending your partners parents (which, like death and taxes, is inevitable anyway), but a question of whether you would like to have these particular fights right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would save your energy. You will have abundant opportunities to engage with your in-laws on your differing viewpoints as intensely as you want to in the future, but you only have this one wedding. Focus on celebrating the beautiful, enlightened life youre building with your partner and the unification of your familiesas mixed as you might feel about some of its members. (Also, your letter doesnt mention whether your husbands family is helping to pay for the wedding or not; if they are, then I would feel even more strongly that you need to hold off on politicizing your registry because then theyll absolutely be offended.) Advertisement Want Advice on Parenting, Kids, or Family Life? Submit your questions to Care and Feeding here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.) Dear Prudence, Is there a way to try and talk somebody out of proposing without entirely destroying the friendship? A lifelong friend of mine recently disclosed that he is planning to marry his trainwreck of a girlfriend. Think too much drinking to the point of creating a scene at a family wedding, offering to be a surrogate for a same-sex couple the first time they met, and possibly physical abuse Multiple friends and family members have already reached out to him about this relationship and what he gets from it, with no luck. He just says that she makes him happy. A few of our friends have recently gotten married, and we think that may play a part in him feeling like he needs to settle down as well (we are in our late 20s). I feel like I am being a bad friend by not doing my part to try and stop him, but Im not sure how he would take it. Is there a way I can talk to him about it without putting our entire friendship on the line? I dont have any personal qualms with his potential fiancee, I just dont think she is the right one for him. The Proposal Police Dear Proposal Police, Advertisement Advertisement The part of your letter that gives me pause is the mention of possible physical abuse. If you have reason to believe that your friend is in an abusive relationship, I would have a serious talk with him where you bring up your concerns directly and explain that you are worried for his well-being, even at risk to your friendship. (The National Domestic Violence Hotline has some helpful resources that can inform the way you approach that conversation.) Advertisement But if you truly have no personal qualms about your friends potential fiancee, besides the fact that shes not to your taste, then I am not sure it is in your place to say much otherwise. As a rule, interfering with a friends love life is messy business; people are rarely receptive to others unsolicited judgment or opinions of a romantic partner. Its a much better use of your energy to simply make yourself available to your friend as a listening ear and supportive ally. As a friend, your job is not to ensure he only makes choices that you personally approve of, but to root for himjust as hed root for youwhile you both muddle through lifes big decisions together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear Prudence, My 30-year-old son Jeremy is smart and talented, but his eating habits are beyond bizarre: He only eats boxed macaroni and cheese. Every single meal. Hes turned it into his entire identity and acts like its a personality trait. Hell tell anyone wholl listen that its his signature and how it proves hes uncompromising and authentically himself. His whole life revolves around this strange fixation. He refuses to eat with anyone unless mac and cheese is served, and if its not, hell sulk or even leave. At a recent family gathering, he stormed out after announcing that we failed to honor his preference because the menu didnt include his preferred dish. Hes also incredibly defensive. If anyone comments on his eating habits, hell say, You dont get it. I dont need varietyI thrive on consistency. Whats wrong with knowing what I want? I love my son and want him to live a healthy, fulfilling life, but Im struggling to balance my concern with his obvious need for control over this. How do I help him see that his choices are alienating peopleand potentially harming his healthwithout completely pushing him away? Macaroni Mom Dear Macaroni Mom, Advertisement Advertisement Im not a doctor, and Im generally quite resistant to pathologizing peoples quirks, but it sounds to me that your son has an eating disorder, or at the very least, obsessive-compulsive tendencies. This kind of relationship with food is definitely not normal; if you had a teenage daughter who only ate celery for every meal, it would feel clearer to you about whats going on. That said, your son is an adult, and you cant exactly march him to the doctor against his will. But I would convey your concern within the framework of something far more serious than just a food preference, and encourage him to seek professional treatment, whether that may also involve a therapist, a support group, a nutritionist, or psychiatric help. You are right to be concerned: Your son is not simply being picky. Theres something bigger going on. Its well within your role as a mother to express your concern for his well-being and offer help, support, and access to resources. There are various resources online about how best to talk to adult children about eating disorders that can help you plan out what you want to say to him. Jeremy may not be immediately receptive to any of it, but changing the tenor of the conversation from one about bizarre eating habits to one about mental health is crucial to getting him the help he likely needs. Delia More Advice From Slate My sister Simone lives abroad and has for almost five years. She has been in a relationship with Jay for almost three years, but we only met him last fall. Jay is a public figure, and for career reasons, he must be perceived as being single. He is under a tremendous amount of scrutiny, and from what I understand, Simone has signed several NDAs. Jays employers only recently allowed her to disclose his identity to us. I was an American in Paris on New Years Eve, and while I understand that there is nothing worse, I was absolutely loving it. I made my way to the Eiffel Tower, where two friends and I jumped onto a carousel with bottles of Champagne. We escaped without paying, watched fireworks on the riverbank, and made fast friends with a group of beautiful European students. At the center of it was a very sweet French guy named Christophe who invited us all back to his apartment for an impromptu night of dancing, food, and wine. There, when asked his name, an odd ginger man in a black turtleneck and a Russian hat paused for an unnaturally long time before finally saying Cole as he gazed into the middle distance. I had a blowout fight with one of my friends. We made up. We stayed up ruinously late and wound up sleeping in Christophes apartment, splayed across his furniture and ancient wooden floorboards. What other holiday is there where the custom is do whatever you want? It was the type of night that one dreams about before studying abroad, which I was doing at the time (like I said: the worst). But even more than all that, it was the type of night many people think about when they think about the myth of New Years Eve. Like Americans in Paris, I know that New Years is something many very reasonable people despise for very reasonable reasons. The crowds. The youths. The drunkenness. The pressure to do something magical. To kiss someone at midnight. To submit to the charade of resolutions. It can be a lot. John Oliver once compared New Years to a pets death: You know its going to happen, but somehow, youre never really prepared for how truly awful it is. Nearly every year brings screeds agreeing that it is the worst: A too expensive exercise in affected frenzy and anticlimax. Anti-climatic to the core, and usually, never anything but a let-down. Just this week, the New Yorker, seizing on what is sure to be a quieter holiday this year, called for us to cancel New Years forever. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres the thing: Even in this terrible year, New Years is special. Like Paris, if you give yourself over to it, it doesnt have to be its worst self. The holidays loudest, ugliest revelers give it a bad rap. It is my avowed belief that New Years is the best holiday, full stop, even if you hate Champagne, parties, and Auld Lang Syne. Advertisement See, the visceral things are actually not what make New Years the best. Yes, if you do choose to go out or gather with friends, the feeling that life is happening can animate New Years Eve in thrilling ways more than any other holiday. There really can be an uncommon and unexpected magic to some New Years nights. Given the midnight main event, many people are more open to staying up later than normal, and in my experience, they are more willing to following the night wherever it takes them, and that can lead to rare, loopy spontaneity. Even if youre nesting with your friends, its more likely something unexpected will happen. One year at a friends house in the Twin Cities, two of us ran outside and chased each other around in the snow, chucking snowballs at each other like idiots. A kind of intuitive, lets-do-it spirit pulls stronger on a lot of people on the holiday in a way it doesnt any other night of the year. Advertisement But the real pleasures of New Years lie in how centrally it valorizes relief. Its practically an exercise in global reliefthat the year is over, and a new one is beginning. And for that, especially this year, it doesnt need some crazy party to be great. Advertisement People seem to forget this, but New Years has literally no requirements. In a normal, nonpandemic year, after a season of family obligations, New Years is your own. Many people who hate it get hung up on pressure to do something fun or to find that midnight smoochbut thats all in your head. The pressure is not real, and if anyone is applying it to themselves or others, theyre doing it wrong. What other holiday is there where the custom is do whatever you want? Advertisement By contrast, for many people, holidays with family often come wrapped up in drama or stressthe Thanksgiving arguments with your Trump-y uncle, or the sibling drama exploding on Christmas Eve. I love my family, but for me, New Years is designed to be a celebration with your friends, the family you chose. Again: what a relief! Friends get sentimental and say touching things to one another on New Years. They send texts to people they miss, and they say, I hope that life is better for us all soon and to see you in the coming months, in a way they dont at other times of year because, honestly, doing that all the time can be a little much. But on New Years, it feels right. Maybe you wont be in touch for another year, and maybe they got all in their feelings while they were drunk. But theyre thinking of you, because dammit, its New Years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe youve read all this and still thought: Buddy, this is why I hate it. I hate people. I hate feelings. I love being inside alone more than anything. Quarantine has been my dream come true. I get that, truly. But lets say you just want to chill, stay indoors, relax and avoid crowds, or go to bed earlyon New Years, doing nothing is fine! Take some ZzzQuil and literally knock yourself out. Youre not skipping Easter dinner and making your mom cry here. Youre having a great New Years. One major point of the holiday is to be refreshed and to start anew with the calendar, so if the most refreshing thing to you means being a shut-in? Guess what, thats in the spirit! Its all fair game. Remember: relief. Advertisement Like many people surely will this year, Ive had melancholy New Years Eves that felt appropriate, wherein recent heaviness meant reveling would have felt wrong. Five years ago, a close family member died, and my partner, her siblings, a close friend, and I sat around the living room feeling sad together. We played music and talked about the years behind and ahead and about the person we all lost. It was perfect, and it still felt like New Years, a holiday designed to be reflective even more than its designed to be fun. Advertisement Advertisement You have probably gathered by now that I am a sentimental person. New Years is also the best because it can be the most universally sentimental holiday. Especially in 2020, the point is not to go HAM because last year was the greatest. Regardless of any midnight plans, New Years announces, Here is an annual day or two to look your life in the face, and the past year of it as a whole, what is trash about it and what is the best about it, and what might be better about it in the coming year. Resolutions can be torturousa humiliating joke and a marketing ploy. But most therapists would tell you that its useful to think how you want your life to be better: how you want to be happier, or how you want to be a better person. And New Years sentimentality encourages you to get real. Its an optimistic holiday, but the melancholy and disapproval embedded in self-reflection tempers that optimism with realism. Thank God that crap year is over, yesbut theres an implied corollary that maybe this year will not be quite as crap. And that is true for everyone, all around the world. New Years stands alone among holidays in being literally for everybody, globally speaking. Sure, there are other calendars. (I see you, Hanukkah. I feel you, Lunar New Year.) But no one is left out of New Years either. Its about the freaking planet completing its orbit. Thats cool. Its the 21st century, and we still celebrate a celestial holiday. I know, I know, actually, 365 days is a little off, solar-systematically speaking. Can it, Galileo. The point is that we traveled around the sun one more timeand when that is far from a certainty every year, thats worth celebrating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Celebrating with a bunch of people indoors is a bad idea this year. That sucks if youre like me and you love a New Years Eve grind; Ill probably hang out with a lone friend in my pod or on Zoom. But even that simplicity is appropriate for a holiday that can be not just about reveling but also one about survival and perseverance through the terrible times, and about hope for the next go-round. I love New Years because its hopeful, but I also love it because the holidays overwhelming feeling is a grateful one: We made it. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/centcom-reports-precision-strikes-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-1121323470.html CENTCOM Reports Precision Strikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen CENTCOM Reports Precision Strikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen Sputnik International The US military targeted key Houthi facilities during the strikes in Yemen, the Central Command said on Tuesday. 2024-12-31T15:50+0000 2024-12-31T15:50+0000 2024-12-31T16:55+0000 world yemen red sea israel houthi houthis uss harry truman us centcom red sea crisis https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102697/95/1026979532_0:34:4088:2334_1920x0_80_0_0_1e845d848ad53f229166ad058d469a64.jpg US Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon (ACW) production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV), according to the statement. In addition, the US military destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site and seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea, the statement said. CENTCOM reaffirmed that there were no injuries or damage to US personnel or equipment during these strikes.Earlier in the day, Yemeni movement Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, said on Tuesday that it had carried out an attack on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman as it was preparing for a "massive air raid" on Yemen.The Houthis also carried out their first missile attack on a power station in Israel, as well as a second attack on Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv within a week, the spokesman said."In honor of the victory over the oppression of the Palestinian people and in support of their fighters, and in response to the mass killings of our brothers in the Gaza Strip, with the help of Almighty God, the missile forces of the Yemeni armed forces carried out two quality military operations The first targeted Ben Gurion Airport, belonging to the Israeli enemy, in the Jaffa area of occupied Palestine, using a Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missile. The other operation targeted a power station south of occupied Jerusalem with the use of a Zulfiqar ballistic missile," Saria said.Last week, Israel carried out strikes on power stations and an airport in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and in the province of Al Hudaydah in western Yemen, resulting in the deaths of six people. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241227/powerful-explosions-caused-by-new-airstrikes-heard-in-yemens-capital---sources-1121287819.html yemen red sea israel Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International yemen, houthis, us centcom, us strikes on yemen, houthis, red sea crisis, uss harry truman https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/first-qatari-plane-with-humanitarian-aid-arrives-at-damascus-airport---1121313020.html First Qatari Plane With Humanitarian Aid Arrives at Damascus Airport First Qatari Plane With Humanitarian Aid Arrives at Damascus Airport Sputnik International The first Qatari plane delivered humanitarian aid, including ambulances and medicines, to Damascus International Airport, Qatari Foreign Ministry said. 2024-12-31T04:38+0000 2024-12-31T04:38+0000 2024-12-31T04:38+0000 world turmoil in syria middle east bashar assad damascus syria qatari foreign ministry hayat tahrir al-sham damascus international airport qatar https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101559/38/1015593876_0:31:1024:607_1920x0_80_0_0_887d02ffe0f68c03f3c5c6397655bde6.jpg "As part of the humanitarian airbridge launched by the State of Qatar, a Qatari aid plane arrived at Damascus International Airport for the first time The aid includes ambulances, food supplies, medicines, as well as technical assistance to help resume operations at Damascus International Airport," the ministry said in a statement on X on Monday. Earlier, Qatar sent humanitarian aid to Syria through neighboring countries - Turkiye and Jordan. Syria's armed opposition captured Damascus on December 8. Russian officials said that Syrian President Bashar Assad stepped down after negotiations with participants in the Syrian conflict and left Syria for Russia, where he was granted asylum. Mohammed al-Bashir, who ran an Idlib-based administration formed by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and other opposition groups, was named interim prime minister. He later announced that an interim government had been formed and would remain in place until March 2025. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241224/what-are-turkiyes-interests-in-syria-1121259319.html damascus syria qatar Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International mideast crisis, turmoil in syria, political crisis in syria, syrian conflict, qatar syria aid https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/high-time-to-build-new-security-system-in-eurasia---russian-ambassador-1121316162.html High Time to Build New Security System in Eurasia - Russian Ambassador High Time to Build New Security System in Eurasia - Russian Ambassador Sputnik International Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergey Kopyrkin said Tuesday it was high time to build a new and just security system and economic cooperation on the Eurasian continent. 2024-12-31T09:54+0000 2024-12-31T09:54+0000 2024-12-31T09:54+0000 world russia armenia moscow brics eurasian economic union 2024 brics summit in russia's kazan azerbaijan eurasia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/0e/1118956717_0:126:3197:1924_1920x0_80_0_0_abffe2948449f6cf5f01624d4132f13c.jpg "A lot has been done, but more needs to be done in the future. I am sure that the unfolding crises in the world and global turbulence in general should unite our countries and peoples in the face of common challenges and threats, give an impetus to the development and deepening of cooperation in all directions. The time has come to jointly build a new, fairer system of security and economic cooperation on the Eurasian continent," Kopyrkin said in his New Year address. Assessing relations between Russia and Armenia, the diplomat noted that despite all challenges and difficulties, a lot of efforts have been made to successfully overcome hurdles in the Russian-Armenian alliance and strategic partnership. The two countries maintain dialogue at all levels, as well as bilateral contacts between parliaments, executive and judicial bodies, Kopyrkin said. He also recalled that in mid-December, Moscow and Yerevan held a meeting of the intergovernmental commission and signed a number of important agreements. In 2024, cooperation in joint integration entities was also successfully developed, first of all on the platform of the Eurasian Economic Union, the ambassador said. The diplomat emphasized Russia's role in strengthening stability and security in the South Caucasus and Moscow's efforts to normalize relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The negotiations between Yerevan and Baku held on the sidelines of the BRICS summit hosted by Russia in the city of Kazan have greatly contributed to the peace process, the diplomat added. He also added that in the future, Russia is ready to do its best to help Armenia and Azerbaijan reach an agreement. The document, according to Kopyrkin, will help implement the agreements of the Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders aimed at unblocking transportation routes in the region. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241126/eurasian-security-should-replace-bankrupt-euro-atlantic-structures---russian-intel-1121004344.html russia armenia moscow azerbaijan eurasia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International eurasian security system, russian armenian ties, russian armenian cooperation, russian armenian relations, russian armenian partnership, collective security in eurasia, security system on the eurasian continent https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/hts--all-syrian-opposition-armed-groups-to-declare-self-dissolution-on-january-5---reports-1121311023.html HTS & All Syrian Opposition Armed Groups to Declare Self-Dissolution on January 5 - Reports HTS & All Syrian Opposition Armed Groups to Declare Self-Dissolution on January 5 - Reports Sputnik International A national conference to discuss Syria's future is scheduled for January 4-5 in Damascus, according to Turkish TV channel A Haber. 2024-12-31T04:23+0000 2024-12-31T04:23+0000 2024-12-31T04:23+0000 world syria damascus middle east turmoil in syria hayat tahrir al-sham rebels jihadist rebels opposition https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/05/0c/1082861228_0:132:3072:1860_1920x0_80_0_0_fafca278feef12e9537a9dc50f64562f.jpg The conference will reportedly focus on constitutional issues and various administrative matters. It will bring together representatives from all segments of society and religious movements, with approximately 1,200 participants invited from Syria and abroad, the report read. On January 5, the conference is expected to announce the dissolution of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and all armed groups, which will become part of the Syrian army, A Haber reported. The new Syrian authorities are reportedly holding negotiations with the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to resolve the crisis in the northeast of the country, the head of the new Syrian leadership, Ahmed al-Sharaa, said on Sunday. He also noted that preparing for elections in Syria could take up to four years, while drafting a new constitution may require three to four years. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241211/west-uses-transition-in-syria-as-smoke-screen-to-establish-presence---ex-uk-ambassador-1121145447.html syria damascus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International hayat tahrir al-sham (hts), damascus, kurdish syrian democratic forces, syrian turmoil, turmoil in syria, syrian opposition, syrian terrorists, isis terrorists, al qaeda terrorists, hts terrorists, israeli occupation https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/oil-depot-in-russias-smolensk-region-on-fire-after-ukraines-drone-attack---governor-1121313732.html Oil Depot in Russias Smolensk Region on Fire After Ukraine's Drone Attack - Governor Oil Depot in Russias Smolensk Region on Fire After Ukraine's Drone Attack - Governor Sputnik International The Russian air defense repelled Ukraines drone attack on the Smolensk Region, Governor Vasily Anokhin said on Tuesday, adding that after the fall of the drone debris, a fuel spill and a fire occurred on the territory of an oil depot. 2024-12-31T05:52+0000 2024-12-31T05:52+0000 2024-12-31T05:52+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukrainian drone attacks on russia ukrainian crisis russian defense ministry smolensk russia ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/07/1093647431_0:0:841:473_1920x0_80_0_0_565b0ceff30fe0ee2000a6dacaae207e.png "Dear residents of Smolensk! Today, in the Yartsevo district, the air defense of the Russian Defense Ministry suppressed an attack by Ukrainian drones. According to preliminary information, the debris of one of the drones fell on the territory of an oil depot. As a result, a fuel spill occurred and the fuel and lubricants began to burn," Anokhin said on Telegram. Anokhin added there is no threat to residential buildings.Ukraine has been sending drones and missiles into Russia almost daily since it launched its counteroffensive in early June 2023. The United Nations said in August last year, following a botched drone strike on Moscow, that it did not want to see any targeting of civilian infrastructure. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241228/russia-overwhelms-ukraine-and-nato-technology-in-special-op-1121245570.html smolensk russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine drone terrorism, ukraine drone wars, ukraine drone attack on russia, ukraine attacks civilllian infrastructure https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/russia-china-and-north-korea-refuse-to-bow-to-western-pressure-1121239116.html Russia, China and North Korea Refuse to Bow to Western Pressure Russia, China and North Korea Refuse to Bow to Western Pressure Sputnik International The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between Russia and North Korea has ended up exposing the weakness of the West, veteran China, trade and economics expert and author Thomas W. Pauken II tells Sputnik. 2024-12-31T12:00+0000 2024-12-31T12:00+0000 2024-12-31T12:00+0000 analysis russia china north korea relations kim jong un vladimir putin xi jinping 2024: year-end wrap-up https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/17/1119079264_0:0:3022:1700_1920x0_80_0_0_e59441b65dd944bb5be70bbe59982c45.jpg Given that North Korea is not a particularly large or powerful country like China, for example, treating the Russian-DPRK alliance like it spells the end of the world looked like overreaction on the Wests part and made it actually look weak, he explains.This overreaction just makes me very curious. And it exposes the Western side is very weak for being of overreacting to this type of partnership they have, Pauken adds.Cooperation agreements between Russia, China and North Korea show that these countries will not fall apart due to Western sanctions and will not bow down to pressure from the US, the EU or the UK, Pauken notes, adding that India may also soon draw closer to China and Russia.He also praises the cooperation between China and Russia, arguing that China not abandoning Russia and siding with the West in the Ukrainian conflict is rather significant.Pauken further argued that there is still room for improvement in the trade between Russia and China, suggesting that it should get stronger considering the fact that we may have major trade wars in the not-so-distant future.As the United States and its allies continue to effectively wage war (economic and proxy) against Russia, the latter moved to forge stronger relations with other countries antagonized by the West, including China and North Korea.Russian President Vladimir Putin himself visited China in May and North Korea in June to hold talks with Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un, respectively. During the visit to Pyongyang, the Russian and North Korean heads of state signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between their two countries. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241210/china-russia-trade-up-21-yy-to-2228bln-in-january-november-1121138813.html russia china north korea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia china relations, russia north korea cooperation https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/south-korean-court-approves-arrest-warrant-for-president---reports-1121311216.html South Korean Court Approves Arrest Warrant for President - Reports South Korean Court Approves Arrest Warrant for President - Reports Sputnik International A South Korean court has approved an arrest warrant for the temporarily suspended president, Yoon Suk-yeol, over his failed attempt to impose martial law in the country, the Yonhap news agency reported on Tuesday. 2024-12-31T01:10+0000 2024-12-31T01:10+0000 2024-12-31T04:11+0000 asia south korea martial law yoon suk yeol https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0c/1f/1121311001_0:193:3071:1920_1920x0_80_0_0_c142b698e621a71e24c5675ab512bb08.jpg An arrest warrant for a sitting president has been issued for the first time in South Korea's history, the report said. The court order gives the countrys Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials 48 hours to detain Yoon for questioning, the report added. Yoon declared martial law, claiming that the opposition was sympathizing with North Korea and plotting a "rebellion." The parliament defied the presidential declaration and voted to lift the martial law just hours later. Yoon obeyed and apologized to the nation. On December 14, South Korea's parliament voted to impeach Yoon over his controversial declaration of martial law. The Constitutional Court will make a final decision on the matter by June 11, 2025. Yoon will be suspended from office pending the ruling and will not be able to leave the country, while an interim president will be in charge until the final verdict is passed. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241204/south-koreas-martial-law-turmoil-north-korea-will-watch-this-drama-play-out-1121086612.html south korea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International martial law, impeachment, korean president, south korea, south korean law, south korean president, impeachment inquiry, impeached president, impeach president, yoon suk-yeol, us aid, us-backed, american puppet, us puppet, puppet master, failed coup, coup from president https://sputnikglobe.com/20241231/south-korean-military-inspects-boeing-737-800-based-aircraft-after-jeju-plane-crash-1121315727.html South Korean Military Inspects Boeing 737-800 Based Aircraft After Jeju Plane Crash South Korean Military Inspects Boeing 737-800 Based Aircraft After Jeju Plane Crash Sputnik International The South Korean military is conducting safety inspections of Boeing 737-800-based aircraft following the crash of a Jeju Air plane on December 29, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff said Tuesday. 2024-12-31T08:08+0000 2024-12-31T08:08+0000 2024-12-31T08:08+0000 asia south korean defense ministry boeing 737 south korea plane crash https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0c/1d/1121296722_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_d87b63d8e0b1e9f9463f8012b52c588f.jpg "Yesterday, the South Korean Defense Ministry ordered the implementation of special safety measures at all levels to prevent possible incidents related to Boing planes and other aerial vehicles. As part of this initiative, it was ordered to conduct independent inspections of all fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft used by the armed forces," Vice Chairman of South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff Lee Jong-sup told a briefing. The country's navy is expected to inspect all aircraft, including Boeing 737-800-based P-8A planes, by the end of the week, Lee said. The air force has also begun inspecting the Peace Eye Airborne Early Warning and Control Flight aircraft. On Monday, South Korean officials revealed plans to conduct safety inspections of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by the country's airlines to determine the cause of the December 29 crash. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241230/airliner-or-flying-health-hazard-unsavory-facts-about-boeings-737-800-1121308821.html south korea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International plane crash in korea, what happen with jeju, details about korean plane crash, victims of plane crash in korea, korean plane crash investigation Neetu Agarwal Vs ITO (ITAT Kolkata) Conclusion: Denying of FTC claim due to procedural delay in filing Form 67 was not justified as the objective of the Article 23 of the DTAA and section 90 to mitigate double taxation which should not be compromised by procedural technicalities when substantive compliance was evident. Held: Assessee was a resident individual who filed her income tax return for the financial year 2020-2021. She discharged her tax liability by virtue of tax deducted at source (TDS), self-assessment tax, and Foreign Tax Credit Please become a Premium member. If you are already a Premium member, login here to access the full content. One of the classic French books that Chinese readers are likely to have encountered during their childhood is the sci-fi novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by literary giant Jules Verne. Joining natural scientist Pierre Aronnax, his servant Conseil, and harpooner Ned Land, the readers go on adventures aboard Captain Nemo's submarine Nautilus, exploring the underwater forests, navigating the Antarctic ice fields and battling a giant squid. Over the 150 years since its publication, the book has been made into countless adaptations, including films, comics and stage plays. As 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, the Central Academy of Drama and the Hong Kong Arts Festival invited artists from both China and France to coproduce a stage rendition of the novel. At the production's launch ceremony hosted at the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing on Dec 17, it was announced that the new production is a commissioned program for the 53rd Hong Kong Arts Festival in 2025 and a project within the 2025 Festival Croisements, an annual series of cultural exchange events between China and France. The production is adapted and directed by Christian Hecq, director and actor from leading French theater company the Comedie-Francaise, and Valerie Lesort, a visual artist, actress and director. The two first adapted the novel for stage in 2015, extensively adopting puppetry that brings to life onstage the variety of underwater creatures. In that production, with only six onstage performers and one voice-over artist, each of the onstage performers also served as a puppeteer. By wearing black bodysuits and manipulating the puppets in a black box theater setting, they allowed the creatures to appear to be swimming in water and expressing a range of emotions through their movements. At the launch ceremony, Hecq brought a hand puppet in the shape of a small squid, and demonstrated how it is operated. Both he and Lesort prefer traditional theater techniques, which seek to create varied stage effects with the actors' physical expressions, rather than multimedia technology, he explains. This new edition will retain the directors' core vision, joined by Chinese artists to present a more localized rendition. The Chinese crew members include director Zha Wenyuan, director, playwright and actor Tian Xiaowei as the dramaturge, and Chinese performers, such as TV and film actor Bao Jianfeng, who is performing in theater for the first time in 10 years. "China is like a new world for me, and I can't wait to start creating with Chinese actors. Our stage adaptation will be a work that transcends borders," Hecq said at the launch ceremony. "The characters in the play will be more richly developed, and the marine creatures will be given unique personalities, becoming an integral part of the story. I believe Chinese audiences will love this unique underwater adventure." Zha says that some of the key highlights in localizing the classic tale aim to bring a fresh sense of theatrical fantasy to the Chinese audiences, while making the story easily relatable. "It has been performed in France for many years, where it has been highly acclaimed as a mature and exceptional production. Bringing it to China, with Chinese actors performing it for Chinese audiences, we hope to create a stage ambience and performance style that reflect Chinese sensibilities," she says. "We also hope that Chinese audiences can connect with the story to the fullest extent." The production crew has already been making adjustments to the script, led by Tian. The goal is to ensure that the dialogue aligns with Chinese language habits and cultural context, and to preserve and convey the humor in the original text. Zha says that one of the adjustments she is impressed by is a song featured in the eighth act. In the scene, the characters have spent over half a year in the submarine, leading them to miss the life on land and reminisce about the past. The harpooner Land starts to sing a sailor's song, soon joined by two other characters. "In the original French version, the lyrics are straightforward, expressing the yearning to, for example, find a beloved girl, take down the whale and set sail. These lines exude a strong sense of ambition and drive, embodying the spirit of sailors rooted in maritime culture," she says. "The adapted lyrics carry a Chinese essence, not just because they resemble classical Chinese poetry in the sentence structure, rhyme and rhythm, but more importantly, because they convey a uniquely Chinese sentiment, a sense of homesickness and solitude. It's like a song that people can actually sing together when they're missing home." It was announced at the ceremony that the production will soon begin its creation and rehearsal at the academy's campus in Changping district, and is set to premiere on March 20 at the 53rd Hong Kong Arts Festival. Afterward, it will begin a nationwide tour, including in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Shanghai, Chengdu in Sichuan province, Xi'an in Shaanxi province and Beijing. According to Hao Rong, president of the Central Academy of Drama, the academy has established a strategic partnership with the Hong Kong Arts Festival, aiming to together promote performing arts development and innovation via in-depth collaboration and exchange in theater education, creation and research. "Based on the strategic collaboration, this production serves as an important initiative and in-depth practice in building the theoretical framework of Chinese theater, and in exploring the integration of production, education and research," Hao says. "It is also a significant achievement of the academy in promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning, as well as enhancing the international impact of Chinese culture." As Bahrain continues to strengthen its position in the global economy, Export Bahrain celebrates its dedicated efforts over the past six years in empowering the kingdom's businesses to expand internationally, facilitating a remarkable $1 billion in export value, reported BNA. Established as the national export development and internationalisation support arm, Export Bahrain has played a crucial role in driving the global success of local businesses while reinforcing Bahrains status as a dynamic hub for international trade. Export Bahrain has consistently demonstrated exceptional year-on-year growth in facilitating exports, underscoring its strategic focus on resilience and economic diversification. Between 2019 and 2020, Export Bahrain achieved an impressive 167% growth in export value, despite the global challenges posed by the pandemic. This upward momentum continued with a 66% increase from 2020 to 2021, fueled by the expansion of critical international partnerships. The positive trajectory persisted, with export values rising by 46% from 2021 to 2022 and a further 24% from 2022 to 2023. Recently, Export Bahrain recorded an additional 26% growth, culminating in a milestone achievement of facilitating $1 billion in export value. These accomplishments have empowered Bahraini businesses to expand internationally and solidified Export Bahrains role in supporting the Kingdoms economic growth and diversification, said the BNA report. To strengthen Bahrain's presence in the global marketplace, Export Bahrain has supported the entry of 78 product and service categories into more than 98 international markets with KSA, Kuwait and UAE (GCC countries, followed by Asia and European markets) being the top export destinations. Export Bahrains strategic efforts have elevated Bahrain-based businesses internationally, opening new markets and fostering sustainable export growth. It has played a pivotal role in facilitating the international expansion of local businesses as Export Bahrain has signed more than 50 partnership agreements with local and international partners, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to putting local exporters on the global trade map. These collaborations further highlight Export Bahrains focus on building strong alliances to enhance Bahrains international trade efforts. Notably, its International Retail Initiative has generated over $5.8 million in revenue locally and internationally, while its E-commerce Facilitation support has transformed over 15 Bahrain-based businesses, enabling them to reach new markets through digital platforms, stated the report. These initiatives have not only enhanced the global competitiveness of Bahrains exports but also equipped businesses with the tools to navigate the complexities of international trade. Export Bahrain's unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving export ecosystem is reflected in its efforts to empower local businesses, with 20% of first-time exporters, and more than 50 companies benefiting from Export Market Intelligence tools. These milestones underscore the confidence and capability of Bahrain-based businesses to compete and succeed on the global stage. In line with its mission to cultivate export awareness, Export Bahrain has hosted various sessions and workshops since its inception, providing exporters with the knowledge and tools needed to explore international markets, reported BNA. Additionally, presenting national products and services to target audiences by participating in international exhibitions and conferences, which are crucial for facilitating connections between exporters and global buyers therefore supporting trade agreements. Recognised for its excellence, Export Bahrain has garnered 20 prestigious awards over the past six years, reflecting its transformative contributions to Bahrains export sector. Notably, Export Bahrain has been a finalist for the first time in the World Trade Promotion Organisation (WTPO) Awards 2024 in the "Best of Partnerships" category, a testament to its success in fostering impactful collaborations and advancing Bahrains international trade interests. Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce and Chairman of Export Bahrain, said: "Export Bahrain has been a catalyst for empowering local businesses and driving substantial export growth. Over the past six years, their unwavering dedication and innovative strategies have positioned Bahrain as a formidable player in the global market." "This transformative approach fosters increased collaboration, enhances competitiveness, and cultivates a dynamic export ecosystem that benefits both Bahraini businesses and the broader economy," he stated. Safa Sharif A.Khaleq, Chief Executive Officer of Export Bahrain, said: "Our growth at Export Bahrain reflects our commitment to empowering local businesses to thrive internationally, enhancing their competitiveness and supporting the Kingdom's economic diversification." "Reaching over $1 billion in export value is a significant milestone, and we will continue to facilitate the growth of Bahraini businesses in the global market," he added. Saudi Real Estate Company (Al Akaria) has announced the sale of 17 prime plots of land located in the Al Rimal district of Riyadh to Almutamadah Gate for Development and Real Estate Investment and its partners for a total value of SAR145 million ($39 million). Spanning over a total area of 43,290 sq m, these plots were developed by Al Akaria as part of its Al Dhahia Project, said the Saudi Real Estate Company in its filing to Saudi bourse Taadawul. The divestment of non-core lands is a strategic step aligned with the company's approved strategy in 2023, which focuses on maximising shareholder returns, diversifying income sources, and achieving a balanced and healthy capital structure, it stated. The 17 land plots were snapped up during the electronic public auction by Almutamadah Gate for Development and Real Estate Investment; Ali bin Abdulrahman bin Ali Alsanan; Haifa Misfer Sulaiman Almisfer and Ahmed Abdullah Hamad Alhunaitah. This divestment serves as a key enabler to achieve these strategic objectives by providing the necessary liquidity to launch new developmental projects that contribute to meeting the strategic targets, said Al Akaria in its statement. On the financial impact, the Saudi real estate group said the deal is expected to have a positive impact on the company's financial results upon the completion of the sale to the buyers.-TradeArabia News Service Wei Jiacheng and Du Xiaoyu, directors of "Out of Order," sat down with China.org.cn recently to discuss how Chinese comedians collaborated for their new stage-to-screen adaptation, featuring unexpected contributions from cast members Kris Phillips and Ma Dong-seok. From left, actors Huang Xiaolei, Fu Jing, Zuo Lingfeng, Song Xiaobao and Kris Phillips, director-actor Du Xiaoyu, director Wei Jiacheng and filmmaker Jia Zhangke pose at the premiere of "Out of Order" in Beijing, Dec. 27, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Taopiaopiao] The film adapts a stage comedy by British playwright Ray Cooney, known as Britain's "master of farce." The original story, which earned the 1991 Olivier Award for Best Comedy. The transition from stage to screen posed major challenges for the directors. They modified key elements to strengthen the film's appeal, changing the protagonist from a government official to an accomplished yet flirtatious lawyer. "The original was a satirical farce about two married people having an affair, but we took a different direction for the film," Wei said. "We made the female character single and transformed the lawyer into a womanizer with redeeming qualities different from the stage version's portrayal. These changes make the characters and plot more believable." Wei and Du, who have worked together for more than a decade, describe their relationship as a harmonious partnership. Their collaborative approach allowed actors creative freedom while filming. "Our screenplay was constantly adjusted, even during filming," Wei said. "Since the actors have their own ideas, we allow them to improvise. We just need to maintain control over the overall framework." The directors recalled that actors Huang Xiaolei and Song Xiaobao contributed many valuable suggestions during filming. Song would creatively and passionately perform many different takes for a scene, Du said, so that he could offer abundant options for the directors to choose from. "He also cared for us, helped us, and warmed up the onsite atmosphere because he knew we were new to filmmaking." A poster for "Out of Order." [Image courtesy of Taopiaopiao] Kris Phillips impressed the directors deeply. The 1980s Chinese pop star has reinvented himself as an actor, notably in his role as King Zhou in Wuershan's "Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms" (2023). Phillips also performed on Broadway and in musicals during the 1990s. "Mr. Phillips took this film very seriously and thoroughly studied the script. He made extensive notes and would discuss scenes with us until 4 a.m.," Wei recalled. "He is a true artist." Du described Phillips as "especially elegant and gentlemanly," adding, "His humor and understanding of timing differ from ours, stemming from his natural elegance." Ma Dong-seok provided another pleasant surprise. Known for his muscular roles as an action star and serious characters, he proved a natural comedian. "He perfectly grasped how to perform comedy in our film," Wei said. Du recalled Ma as humorous in person, unlike his screen persona. "He always has a serious expression; he once told me, 'You might think I'm angry, but this is just my face. Actually, I'm very happy right now.'" "Out of Order" opens across China on Dec. 31, targeting New Year audiences. The directors said they feel nervous yet excited to present their film, which they likened to their child, hoping it brings joy to viewers. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley says she is prepared to have her United States visa revoked, as she urged Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries to ensure they are able to explain...what the Cubans have been able to do for us as they seek to defend the Cuban health brigade programme. This matter, with the Cubans and the nurses, should tell us everything that we need to know. Barbados does not currently have Cuban medical staff or Cuban nurses, but I will be the first to go to the line and to tell you that we could not get through the (Covid-19) pandemic without the Cuban nurses and the Cuban doctors, Mottley said in a statement in Parliament. The China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said in a statement on Monday. The FTA was announced by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and the Maldives' Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed, according to the statement, which also noted that the two ministers held a video conference on the same day. The vast majority of China's industrial exports to the Maldives, including ships, electrical equipment, furniture and agricultural products, will benefit from the FTA after its implementation. The vast majority of the Maldives' aquatic exports to China will also enjoy zero tariffs, according to the statement. The implementation of the FTA is expected to provide a solid institutional guarantee for the improvement of the trade and investment liberalization and facilitation levels between the two countries, significantly promote the development of bilateral economic and trade relations, and continuously improve the well-being of businesses and people in both countries. Perhaps it is because there is no consequence for the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) that it continues to disconnect the electricity supply of its customers without warning. Regulated Industries Commission (RIC) executive director Dr Michelle Salandy confirmed to a parliamentary Joint Select Committee (JSC) on Local Authorities, Service Commissions and Statutory Authorities (including THA) that T&TEC faces no repercussions for the failure to adhere to its code of practice that gives specific step-by-step guidance on disconnection, reconnection, and theft of electricity, among other things. Now that information is in the public sphere, the public will no doubt hold the commission to account. A wide range of Chinese-made goods, including religious offerings, lanterns, artificial flowers, scented candles, decor, clothing, beauty products, and snacks, are flooding the Vietnamese market ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet. The shopping demand surges at the end of the year and Chinese imports have filled traditional markets and retail outlets thanks to low costs and diversified varieties. Since October, Nguyen Thu Hue, who trades in decorations and religious items at Tan Dinh Market in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, has sourced more Chinese products to prepare for Tet, due late next month. She started importing more products when she realized consumers prefer low-cost products when visiting traditional markets, and will not come to such markets to buy high-quality items. Her profit margins were small when selling locally-made products versus a higher margin from Chinese products. Trendy trays of Tet treats bought from China have various shapes and patterns, each costing VND200,000-250,000 (US$7.8-9.8), whereas tea sets cost VND180,000 ($7.1) apiece. A branch of lifelike artificial flowers, complete with a faint fragrance, costs VND10,000 ($0.4). When these products are sourced locally, they have higher prices. Hue added that profit from local products was only 7-10 percent of the product prices, versus the 40-80 percent from Chinese imports. Similarly, religious items, lanterns, and scented candles imported from China are each priced under VND100,000 ($3.9). Many buyers asked for the origin of the products and accepted Chinese ones without bargains, Hue informed. The sale of Chinese products before Tet has helped Hue offset her sluggish business in 2024. The number of traders of Chinese goods is huge, with some vendors who used to offer domestic products now abandoning them to switch to Chinese alternatives. N.T.L., the owner of a clothing shop in District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, shared that she had to borrow money to purchase goods for Tet in previous years. However, she faced no monetary pressure this year as she shifted to importing Chinese goods that require smaller capital. She noted that she sells items in her shops and also distributes them to traders in other provinces, adding that she can earn more profits from Chinese products. The period before Tet also tends to witness a surge in demand for technological products. Nguyen Tri Thien in District 5 said he has begun trading Chinese Bluetooth headsets, speakers, smart watches, and phone cases. Bluetooth headsets fetch VND10,000 ($0.4) to VND200,000 ($7.8) each. Thien pockets 20 percent per product, while the rate is only five percent for Vietnamese products. He stated that he usually purchases Chinese products via partners at Kim Bien Market in District 5 and Binh Tay Market in District 6. He only spends VND5 million ($196) buying products that he sells on e-commerce platforms. A screenshot shows Chinese cakes on sale via a live stream on an e-commerce platform. Chinese snacks, such as mochi, salted egg cookies, chocolate cakes, and sponge cakes topped with pork floss, are popular with young Vietnamese. Many shop owners claimed that cosmetics sales have improved. They can earn a profit of up to 50 percent from Chinese face masks sold between VND10,000 ($0.4) and VND14,000 ($0.5). Meanwhile, Vietnamese-made face masks cost some VND35,000 ($1.4) each, and traders only earn VND2,000-3,000 ($0.08-0.1). Legal compliance is top priority Nguyen Thanh Nam, an employee responsible for Chinese goods at an import-export company in Tan Binh District, advised local traders to choose commodities carefully. He warned that without high-quality and well-priced product sources, profit may not be as high as expected. According to a leader of a Vietnamese consumer goods producer, the trend of importing Chinese products ahead of Tet this year has been strong due to challenges faced by domestic companies and their failure to launch effective promotional campaigns. He also pointed to the rise of e-commerce platforms which have made it easier to import Chinese goods. He emphasized that Vietnamese enterprises must embrace competition and suggested that the government create a fair market environment while taking steps to prevent the sale of products of unclear origin or with fraudulent claims. A leader of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade stated that Vietnamese traders source Chinese goods from local wholesale markets, agents, and e-commerce platforms, and insisted on their verifying the origin of these products. He added that product packaging must include all necessary information as required by Vietnamese law. At the end of this year, the Ho Chi Minh City Market Surveillance Agency seized a large quantity of smuggled goods, including clothing worth over VND920 million ($36,045) and more than 4.3 metric tons of fabric valued at VND652 million ($25,545), which were found in an apartment on Ngo Duc Ke Street in District 1. Earlier in the year, local authorities also confiscated thousands of smuggled items, including cosmetics, food, electronics, and household appliances, suspected to have been brought in across the northern border. These commodities had a total value of over VND2.8 billion ($109,921). Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnams exports of agricultural products reached unprecedented heights in 2024, with multiple sectors achieving significant milestones such as coffee exports surpassing US$5 billion and cashew shipments exceeding $4 billion. The countrys coffee exports crossed the $5-billion mark for the first time, earning $5.2 billion despite a 14-percent decline in export volume. Nguyen Nam Hai, chairman of the Vietnam Coffee-Cocoa Association, credited this success to soaring global prices, which peaked at $5,720 per metric ton in October. With an annual average price of $5,580 per metric ton, Vietnam's robusta coffee achieved the highest global price and even outpaced other countries' arabica beans at times, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trades foreign trade agency. The cashew sector also had a banner year with its export value reaching $4.2 billion and volume surpassing 700,000 metric tons for the first time. Even with rising logistics costs, the sector grew steadily thanks to robust demand from traditional markets like the U.S. and Europe. T. Diem, a cashew exporter based in Binh Phuoc Province, southeastern Vietnam, said that Vietnamese processed cashew nuts are increasingly favored for their competitive pricing and quality. Rice exports hit a record high of nine million metric tons, generating $5.7 billion, up from 8.1 million metric tons in 2023. A local rice exporter in the Mekong Delta province of Dong Thap, which focuses on offering high-quality, fragrant rice varieties, received a surging number of orders from international buyers. This rice exporter revealed that high-value fragrant rice varieties like Dai Thom 8 and OM 18 have become international favorites, driving profits for both farmers and exporters. The record-breaking achievement highlighted the rice sectors resilience and growth in 2024, said Nguyen Ngoc Nam, chairman of the Vietnam Food Association. The average rice export price of $600 per metric ton marked a 28-percent year-on-year jump, cementing Vietnam's position as the world's third-largest rice exporter, Nam continued. Fruit and vegetable exports registered a 27-percent rise against last year at $7.1 billion. Among the items for export, Vietnamese bananas overtook Philippine ones as Chinese consumers' top choice. Durian exports, including frozen durians, saw a 50-percent year-on-year surge to $3.2 billion. Other agricultural items like fresh coconuts are also emerging as new favorites in the Chinese market. Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said that Vietnamese fruits and vegetables are increasingly gaining an edge in global markets thanks to abundant supply, improved quality, and competitive pricing. Despite its success, Vietnams agricultural sector faces significant challenges. Rice prices are declining, with five-percent broken rice dropping to $485 per metric ton early this month, below Thai rice's rate of $501 per metric ton and tumbling to a 19-month low. Increased competition, particularly from India, could further pressure exports in 2025. Nam, the Vietnam Food Association chairman, agreed, predicting that competition in the global rice sector would become fiercer. Commenting on the issue, a Ho Chi Minh City rice exporter emphasized the importance of focusing on quality and leveraging free trade agreements to expand into high-value markets. Similarly, the fruit and vegetable sector faces challenges, especially with dragon fruits struggling to compete against more affordable Chinese alternatives. Industry experts have suggested that Vietnam focus on increasing exports to demanding markets like Japan and South Korea while investing in value-added products like frozen mangos, durians, and jackfruits. To sustain growth momentum, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has approved a plan to replant and upgrade nearly 110,000 hectares of coffee plantations by 2025, aiming for 12-percent annual growth in export revenue. Meanwhile, the fruit and vegetable sector is targeting $8 billion in exports, while the seafood sector aims to rake in $11-12 billion in export revenue by 2025. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnamese police are investigating a mysterious case in which two foreigners have been found dead from unknown causes in separate rooms at the same guest villa in central Vietnam. On Monday, police in Hoi An City, central Quang Nam Province reported that Otteson Greta Marie, a 34-year-old British woman, and Els Arno Quinton, a 36-year-old South African man, were found lifeless on December 26 in their respective rooms at the Hoa Chuong tourist villa in Cam Thanh Commune. The villas staff discovered the deaths at 11:18 am and immediately reported them to the provincial police department, which deployed forces to examine the scene. Initial reports indicated no signs of scratches or external force on the bodies of the foreigners, who were discovered lying on their beds. Personal belongings, such as cellphones, were untouched, and there were no signs of vandalism in the rooms. Police collected several empty liquor bottles from both rooms for further analysis. The provincial police have questioned witnesses and scheduled autopsies to determine the cause of death. Investigators have yet to release further details as they continue to understand this mysterious case. Hoi An City is home to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a long-time favorite destination for international tourists. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! This photo shows Kawa Ningbo, the first cargo ship that will sail on the Ningbo-Wilhelmshaven direct route, docking at Ningbo Zhoushan Port in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang Province, Dec. 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua] A cargo ship loaded with over 1,700 TEU containers of lithium batteries and e-commerce goods set sail on Monday from east China's Ningbo port for Wilhelmshaven in Germany, marking the opening of a "China-Europe express" shipping route. The Ningbo-Wilhelmshaven direct route will reduce transport time to 26 days, saving 12 days compared to the same route with multiple stops, according to Sun Xuejun, chairman of Zhejiang Seaport Logistics Group Co., Ltd. Upon arrival in Wilhelmshaven, goods can be distributed and transported to Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea coastal areas through waterborne shipping, to Western Europe, including France and Belgium, by land, and even further to Central and Eastern Europe, such as Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland, within 30 days. "The launch of the express shipping route offers Chinese lithium battery companies an excellent opportunity to save on transport time and costs, thereby enhancing supply chain resilience," said Ma Quanlin, a senior manager with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL), China's leading battery maker. The cargo shipping service is currently expected to operate once a month, with the possibility of more frequent trips based on logistics demand, Sun said. Rainfall is expected to increase across Ho Chi Minh City and other southern Vietnamese provinces in the first days of 2025 on account of strong wind disturbances, according to the southern hydrometeorological center. This region is forecast to receive intensified rain from Thursday to Saturday due to a stable subtropical high-pressure system over central Vietnam and strengthening easterly wind disturbances at higher altitudes. Meanwhile, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has issued a warning about a low-pressure trough associated with a low-pressure area over the East Vietnam Sea. This system is expected to worsen weather conditions both at sea and on land in the Central Highlands and southern regions. The New Years Eve forecast in Ho Chi Minh City and other southern provinces looks favorable, with sunny skies during the day and only light, scattered rain in the evening. These weather conditions could allow for smooth New Year celebrations. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! What you need to know in Vietnam today: Society -- Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City on Monday opened four traffic infrastructure projects to traffic, including Phuoc Long Bridge connecting District 7 and Nha Be District, the HC1 tunnel at Nguyen Van Linh-Nguyen Huu Tho Intersection in District 7, a road parallel will National Highway 50 in Binh Chanh District, and Tan Ky Tan Quy Street in Binh Tan District. -- Ho Chi Minh City and the southern region as a whole will experience downpours in the first days of 2025 due to strong wind turbulences, according to the Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Center. -- Strong waves have eroded many areas along the coast in Da Nang City, central Vietnam over the past few days with the most severely eroded area being My Khe Beach, which was voted as one of the best beaches in the world. -- Lam Dong Province in the Central Highlands on Monday held a ceremony to welcome its 10 millionth tourist this year. The tourist is a man from Hanoi. -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has required units in the local aviation sector to intensify safety measures following recent aviation accidents in the world. Business -- A company in central Quang Ngai Province on Monday presented each of its 4,400 employees with a 40-inch television, a local official reported on Monday. -- Ho Chi Minh City set a target to welcome 8.5 million international tourists and 45 million domestic visitors and generate VND260 trillion (US$10.2 billion) in tourism revenue in 2025. World News -- A South Korean court on Tuesday approved an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has been impeached and suspended from power over his decision to impose martial law on Dec. 3," Reuters reported, citing investigating authorities. -- The Chinese government urged local officials to provide more financial relief or step up one-time allowances to people in need ahead of major holidays over the next month, as China's economic difficulties are set to extend into 2025, according to Reuters. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A group of Chinese tourists has complained about being illegally shaken down for VND200,000 (US$7.8) while strolling along a beach in Nha Trang, a popular city in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam. After capturing the extortion, the group forwarded the video to their tour guide as well as posted it on Chinese social media. Pham Minh Nhut, vice-chairman of the Nha Trang - Khanh Hoa Tourism Association, said on Monday that the unit had sent a dispatch to the Nha Trang Peoples Committee reporting a situation of hustling and unlawfully charging tourists on public beaches. He confirmed that the association had received the complaint from the Khanh Hoa Tour Guide Branch. The incident occurred a few days ago when a group of Chinese tourists strolling along a beach on Tran Phu Street were approached by individuals who demanded a beach fee of VND200,000. The individuals claimed ownership of the beach and would charge tourists VND200,000 per person. When the tourists asked them why they had to pay a fee for a public beach, these individuals just answered, It is a charge. As the Chinese tourists refused to pay the fee, they were surrounded and tailed by a gang of thugs for one kilometer. The tourists captured images of the gang over their intimidation, sent them to their tour guide, and posted them on Chinese social media. According to the Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa Tourism Association, charging tourists is a lawbreaking act, tarnishes the image of Nha Trang City, and harms tourism development. The association urged local authorities to increase patrols in public areas, particularly on beaches, to prevent similar incidents and maintain safety and social order. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! The first phase of the installation of an artistic lighting system on the Ba Son Bridge, which connects District 1 and Thu Duc City in Ho Chi Minh City, has been completed ahead of the new year. Since Monday evening, the bridge illuminated with the lighting system has become a highlight in the city and excited many local residents and tourists. Nguyen Hoang Nam, a 24-year-old resident of Tan Phu District, stopped on the bridge to take photos, drawn by its dazzling lighting system, which has recently completed the first phase of installation. The bridge with the artistic lightning system looks brighter and more beautiful. I am proud that the city has such a nicely-decorated place, Nam said. The Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City is sparkling thanks to an artistic lighting system. Tran Van An, 29, living in Binh Thanh District, stood on the Thu Thiem Bridge opposite the Ba Son Bridge to admire the latters new look, saying it is sparkling at night. He hoped that locals would join hands to preserve the bridges visual appeal by maintaining the lighting system and keeping both sides of the bridge clean. Construction of the Ba Son Bridge, spanning the Saigon River, commenced in 2015 to the tune of VND3,082 billion (US$120 million). At 6:00 pm on December 30, 2024, the lighting system on the Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City was activated. Photo: Bui Nhi Dai Quang Minh Real Estate Investment JSC completed and handed over the Ba Son Bridge to the city in April 2022. This cable-stayed bridge stretches a total of 1.4 kilometers and has six lanes of traffic. The bridges main span is 885 meters long, while its tower is 113 meters tall. The bridge, despite being a modern symbol of Ho Chi Minh City given its impressive architecture, previously lacked an artistic lighting system. The lighting system on the Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City was completed ahead of the new year. Photo: Van Trung The family of Pham Ngoc Dung and Vu Thi Phuong admires the new look of the Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Bui Nhi Thomas from Poland takes photos of the Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City while walking on it. Photo: Bui Nhi Thai travelers pose for a photo on the Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Bui Nhi The Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City is a cable-stayed bridge stretching a total of 1.4 kilometers. Photo: Bui Nhi The artistic lighting system on the Ba son Bridge contributes to illuminating the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Bui Nhi Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A family in Hanoi welcomed twins who were born five weeks apart, a doctor said on Tuesday. L.T.H., 26, gave birth to the twins in her 26th and 31st weeks of pregnancy, respectively, at Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. Undergoing in vitro fertilization, she luckily conceived a twin pregnancy, a boy and girl. She began to experience abdominal pain and vaginal discharge in her 24th week of pregnancy, so she quickly visited a hospital in the city for a medical check-up. She was diagnosed with a dilated cervix, so she underwent a cervical cerclage procedure to prevent early delivery. However, six days later, the stitches came loose, so she was taken to Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital for emergency treatment. The sac of one fetus ruptured and was at risk of infection, said Dr. Nguyen Bien Thuy from the obstetrics department of the hospital. The situation compelled doctors to deliver the baby at just 26 weeks of gestation. Weighing only 730 grams, the male newborn was immediately transferred to the neonatal department for resuscitation and intensive care. Dr. Thuy explained that while the second fetus faced a high risk of infection, delivering the baby prematurely would have posed an even greater threat to its survival. Therefore, the doctor decided to keep the girl in the womb to allow her to grow. Her health improved one week after the first twin was born. As the mother suffered severe preeclampsia in her 31st week of pregnancy, doctors made a decision to deliver the other via C-section to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby. The girl was born safely, weighing 1.2 kilograms, and was brought to the neonatal department for special care. After over one month of intensive care from doctors, the girl now weighs 2.5 kilograms, while the boy gained weight, increasing to 2.3 kilograms. The boy is still receiving care at the neonatal department, and will soon be reunited with his family. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Ho Chi Minh City has set targets to welcome 8.5 million international tourists and 45 million domestic visitors, and generate VND260 trillion (US$10.2 billion) in tourism revenue in 2025. The municipal Department of Tourism on Monday held a conference to review its performance in 2024 and set a detailed goal for 2025. The southern metropolis served six million international travelers in 2024, rising 20 percent year on year and fulfilling its target, said Nguyen Cam Tu, director of the municipal Tourism Promotion Center. The number of domestic visitors to the city reached an estimated 38 million in 2024, a 8.6-percent year-on-year increase. Tourism earned VND190 trillion ($7.5 billion) in 2024, up 18.8 percent against 2023. Given the growth, the citys tourism department aims to welcome 8.5 million international visitors in 2025, up over 40 percent year on year. The city also set ambitious goals for tourism revenue and the influx of domestic tourists in 2025. To achieve the targets, the department plans to adopt various measures to entice local and international tourists, Tu said. Accordingly, the department will cooperate with some units to host several events in a bid to turn the city into a captivating destination of events and festivals. Besides, the department is working to boost the effectiveness of tourism governance and create favorable conditions for travel firms to expand their reach. Over 1,530 travel firms in the city are eligible to operate, according to the municipal department. Ho Chi Minh City is an alluring tourist destination for both local and international travelers, significantly contributing to Vietnams total international tourist arrivals in 2024 at 17.5 million, said Nguyen Trung Khanh, head of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism. The country saw a 39-percent year-on-year increase in the number of foreign tourists in 2024, and served an estimated 110 million domestic visitors. This year, Vietnams tourism revenue totals VND840 trillion ($33 billion), up 24 percent year on year, he said. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Sakshi Srivastava, Mohammed Ramees & Saqiba Kamal Khan, TwoCircles.net Shahids story is one that defies expectations. Hailing from a remote village, Tiruvallur, in Kerala, his early education was rooted in the traditional madrasa system. Raised with limited exposure to conventional schooling, he enrolled in a 12-year madrasa course at Jamia Ainul Huda Kapad, never imagining that one day he would be sitting in the corridors of power. Support TwoCircles But against all odds, Shahid not only completed his madrasa education but also went on to achieve a rank of 693 in the prestigious Indian Civil Services examination in 2017. Today, he serves as the deputy director of media and communication at the National Media Center and as the communication head in the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. I knew it was the toughest exam in India, but I strongly believed that if there is a will, there is a way, Shahid says, recalling his UPSC journey. Despite facing initial setbacks, he kept pushing forward. His madrasa background piqued the curiosity of the UPSC interview panel that focussed its questions on his unique educational experiences. Shahid explained that a madrasa, in its truest sense, is a place of learning where subjects like mathematics, engineering and philosophy were taught alongside religious studies. Madrasas were once hubs of diverse knowledge, he explains, but over time, colonial influences diminished their status. Shahids success story is not an anomaly. It reflects a growing shift in how madrasas are being perceived and how their role in modern education is evolving in India. Historically, madrasas in India were centers of religious education, but it also played a pivotal role in the intellectual landscape. It offered courses in subjects such as astronomy, mathematics and medicine. However, over time, these institutions became increasingly isolated from mainstream educational systems, with their curriculum focused predominantly on Islamic teachings. But change is on the horizon. A landmark ruling by the Supreme Court in November 2024 upheld the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madrasa Education Act, 2004. The top court affirmed the states right to regulate madrasa education. This ruling, signals a new era for madrasas one that acknowledges its contribution to primary education while recognising the need for integration with the broader educational framework. However, the court also struck down the provision that allowed madrasas to grant fazil and kamil degrees and equated them with higher education qualifications. The apex court cited violations of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Act. The term madrasa derived from the Arabic word for school has a long history in India, stretching back to the 7th century with the introduction of the dars system by Arab scholars. Under Muslim rule, madrasas became intellectual centers where scholars not only imparted religious knowledge but also made significant contributions to science, philosophy and governance. This rich history was disrupted during British colonial rule, which relegated madrasas to the margins of formal education. However, in recent years, many madrasas have begun evolving, particularly in states like Kerala and Assam, where the concept of integrated madrasas has gained momentum. These institutions aim to bridge the gap between religious and secular education by offering students a well-rounded curriculum that includes both Islamic studies and modern subjects like science, mathematics and language. In 2023, 27 out of 29 students from the Assam off-campus of Darul Huda Islamic University (a Kerala-based integrated madrasa) won the prestigious Dr. Banikanta Kakati Award for distinction in the Assam Board Exam. It highlights the success of these integrated educational models. One such beneficiary of this model is Sadiyya Saleem, a lecturer in the Faculty of English Language at the University of Fujairah, UAE. She credits her success to her time at Wafiyya, a Kerala-based integrated madrasa for women. Before joining the madrasa, I had never written poetry. But during an arts festival, I wrote my first poem and ended up winning. That moment changed me, Sadiyya says. She believes that the integrated madrasa system helped her develop both her creative and intellectual abilities, while fostering respect for other faiths. I studied Hinduism, Christianity, Marxism and other philosophies alongside Islamic studies. It taught me to respect all religions and ideologies, which I think is crucial in todays world, she reflects. Sadiyyas journey is a prime example of how the integrated madrasa system can nurture both academic excellence and personal growth, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society. The Future of Madrasas Dr. Mohammed Qasim, a scholar and head of the Arabic Department at Delhi University, has been working on reforming the madrasa system for over a decade. Growing up in a madrasa in Bihar, he understands firsthand the challenges and potential of the madrasa system. Madrasa education focused on Islamic subjects, but it also imparted knowledge of languages and sciences. Although secular subjects were given less time, they were essential for expanding students intellectual horizons, he explains. Dr. Qasim advocates for integrating general sciences into madrasa curricula, suggesting that this could bridge the gap between traditional and modern education. Madrasas should open its doors to the world so that everyone can see what is happening there. The inclusion of subjects like science is crucial for bridging the divide between religious and secular education, he emphasises. He also proposes aptitude tests and academic counseling after primary madrasa education that will allow students to choose their educational paths based on their interests and aptitudes. If a child is inclined towards religious education, they should continue. But if their interests lie in secular education, they should be encouraged to pursue that path, Dr. Qasim says. For him, the moral foundation that madrasas provide is invaluable, but it must be complemented by modern academic frameworks to prepare students for the challenges of the contemporary world. Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Qasim shares, In the early days, I felt nervous as a madrasa student. But later, I was invited as a guest at programs hosted by my non-Muslim friends. His story underscores the importance of breaking down barriers between communities and building mutual understanding. The ongoing controversies surrounding madrasas are the result of a communication gap between different sections of society, he notes. He urges madrasas to become more transparent and inclusive in their approach. Dr. Qasim also advocates for a more personalised approach to madrasa education.Primary madrasa education provides moral lessons, but children should be given the opportunity to explore secular education further based on their aptitude. This way, we can help them build futures aligned with their dreams, he concludes. The evolving role of madrasas in contemporary India offers a powerful example of how educational systems can adapt to the changing needs of society. From traditional religious hubs to modern, integrated institutions, madrasas are paving the way for a more inclusive and balanced approach to education. The future of madrasas lies in their ability to nurture both the mind and the spirit, preparing students to contribute to a rapidly changing world. Poonam Masih, TwoCircles.net As the festive season Christmas ushers in a sense of joy and togetherness for millions, for many Christians in India, it has become a time of fear, hostility and violence. Its celebrations and other Christian holidays in recent years have been marred by a surge in attacks allegedly from Hindutva groups, leading to a heightened sense of insecurity among the community. What was once a time of celebration now often feels like a test of endurance and survival. Support TwoCircles During the Christmas celebrations in Lucknow, a group of Iskcon devotees chanting Hare Ram and Hare Krishna allegedly stood in front of a cathedral and provoked tension. Meanwhile, in Odisha, two Christian women from the Balasore district were brutally attacked reportedly by a Hindutva group a day after Christmas on allegations of forced conversion. One of the survivors is said to be in critical condition and currently hospitalised in Balasore. This wave of violence continued to spread across the country. In Rajasthan, protests erupted in Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, where activists from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bajrang Dal purportedly targeted schools celebrating Christmas. The accusations ranged from promoting religious conversions to destroying Christmas event posters and confronting students and teachers with open hostility. Meanwhile, in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, the dressing of Lord Laddu Gopals idol in a Christmas outfit became a lightning rod for right-wing groups, which condemned the act as an assault on Hindu traditions. In Punjabs Ludhiana district, a local political leader, Sonu Singh Rajput, allegedly confronted a Christian pastor who was conducting prayers in a private home. The pastor was accused of attempting to convert others. This attack, framed as protecting traditions, epitomises the broader issue of how religious minorities, especially Christians, are increasingly targeted during the holiday season. For the past 10-15 years, Hindutva groups have escalated their harassment of Christians during Christmas. What was once a time of family gatherings and joyous celebrations has increasingly become a season marked by fear and intimidation. A Changing Atmosphere: Fear and Vigilance Amid Festivities In the age of social media, the Christian community has been increasingly targeted by groups spreading inflammatory content. The rise of such online hate, combined with a rising number of real-world attacks, has created an environment of apprehension, where many are afraid to celebrate freely. The joyous spirit of Christmas is now overshadowed by the palpable anxiety of potential violence. Anil Thadathil, a pastor from Delhi, shared his experience. Earlier, we used to go caroling, singing and performing skits on the streets. We used to visit peoples homes. But three years ago, we were attacked by Hindutva groups, and an FIR was filed against us for conversion activities. Since then, we have stopped caroling outside. This year, I organised a small carol in my society, and after I invited people to join, a message was sent in our WhatsApp group, saying we were forgetting the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus while celebrating Christmas. Anil reflects on the changing dynamics: After the carol incidents, I noticed a shift in how people treated us. Christmas is no longer just a Christian festival. It is a time when everyone, regardless of faith, comes together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. But now, it is not the same. Rising Incidents: A Surge in Attacks on Christians According to the United Christian Forum (UCF), recorded incidents of attacks against Christians in India have quadrupled between 2012 and 2022. In 2022, a staggering 599 incidents were reported, a sharp increase from 247 in 2016. The UCFs 2023 report documented 733 attacks, averaging 61 incidents per month. Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh were among the worst-hit states, accounting for 191 and 158 incidents respectively, with many victims suffering from attacks during prayer services or illegal arrests made by local police. Dr. Goldy George, a social scientist, says, In the last 15 years, we have seen Hindutva groups increasingly targeting Christian festivals, linking them to Hindu gods and goddesses. For example, Tulsi Day was suddenly declared on Christmas Day. It is all part of a narrative that Christmas and Christianity are foreign imports. This idea was spread by the RSS and further reinforced through social media campaigns. He further elaborates on the growing fear, particularly among Christians in tribal areas: In places like Chhattisgarh, there is now a palpable atmosphere of fear. Many Christians in tribal regions are too afraid to even go to church, remembering the violence that took place during Christmas two years ago. The issue of delisting tribals and turning them against Christian communities has further fueled this climate of tension. The Strain of Living in Fear Priti (name changed), a young Christian from Haridwar, shares her growing unease. Two years ago, our church was attacked by a Hindutva group, which destroyed everything inside. They fought with church members, and the case is still in court. Even now, we receive regular threats regarding the case. The fear is so intense that even during regular church services, Priti finds it difficult to relax. When I attend church on Sundays, I cannot focus fully. I am always on edge, worried that someone might attack again. We cannot even celebrate our own festival peacefully. A Call for Justice: Unanswered Appeals In the wake of these frequent assaults, the United Christian Forum has been vocal in its demand for justice. In 2023, it presented a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged him to take stronger action against those targeting Christians during religious festivals. Despite the urgency of these matters, when the UCF reached out to National Commission for Minorities Chairperson Iqbal Singh Lalpur regarding these issues, their request for a formal discussion was allegedly met with delays. The office, when contacted, allegedly failed to address the serious concerns raised about the attacks on Christians during Christmas. It further added to the communitys frustration and sense of abandonment. TCN News Desk New Delhi: Several high-profile legal petitions brought the issue of religious sites and its historical significance back into the limelight in India in 2024, which came to an end today. Ranging from the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, these disputes reignited debates about the ownership and identity of sacred spaces. It stirred both public attention and legal action. However, what stands out in these cases is the surprising silence of influential organisations such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) the ideological mentor of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that has typically been vocal on matters of religious identity. Though seemingly neutral, this silence reflects deeper ideological calculations and strategic considerations within the broader discourse surrounding these disputes. Support TwoCircles The Controversy in Sambhal: A Clash of Religious Claims One of the most recent flashpoints in this ongoing struggle has been the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. Believed to have been built during the Mughal period, the mosque has become the subject of intense scrutiny after a petition claimed that it was constructed on the site of a pre-existing Hindu temple. The petition led to a court-ordered survey of the mosque, which, in turn, prompted violent clashes between locals and the police. The violence resulted in at least six deaths. The tensions underscore the volatile nature of religious disputes in India, particularly when they involve places of worship that hold historical and cultural significance. Despite the rising public attention, the RSS refrained from commenting on the situation. While some members of the organisation advocate for a case-by-case approach to such matters, others worry that focusing on too many issues simultaneously may dilute the emphasis on more prominent disputes, like those surrounding the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura. This internal division within the Sangh leadership is a reflection of the broader complexities surrounding these disputes and the potential consequences of pursuing such claims. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah: A Spiritual and Legal Battleground Another notable case involves the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a revered shrine for Muslims in Rajasthan. A recent petition claimed that the site was originally a Shiva temple. The petitioners sought permission to worship there as a Hindu temple. A court in the state entertained the please and issued notices to all stakeholders. The growing legal battles over such sites are not only testing the limits of Indias secular fabric but also challenging the effectiveness of laws meant to prevent such disputes. The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, was designed to preserve the religious character of places of worship as they stood on August 15, 1947. This law aimed at preventing any attempts to alter the religious status of historical sites, with the exception of the Ram Janmabhumi-Babri Masjid dispute, which was resolved by the Supreme Court in 2019. However, recent developments, including the petitions related to Gyanvapi and Ajmers shrine, have cast doubt on the efficacy of this law in preventing religious polarisation. The case over the Gyanvapi mosque, which involves the claim of a Shiva lingam being found in the mosques premises, is just one example of how historical grievances are being brought into the contemporary legal domain. It is raising new questions about the balance between faith, history and law. The Gyanvapi Mosque and the Battle for Historical Justice The Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi has become one of the most contentious sites in Indias religious landscape. Allegations that the mosque was built by Aurangzeb after demolishing a part of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple sparked numerous legal petitions. In November 2023, the Supreme Court intervened and allowed a survey of the mosques premises to investigate claims of the presence of a Shiva lingam, which added fuel to the fire. The Varanasi district courts decision to make the Archaeological Survey of Indias (ASI) findings public only intensified the situation and turned it into one of Indias most high-profile legal and religious disputes. What is notable in the Gyanvapi case is the broader implication it holds for similar cases in the future. The courts approach in this matter aligns with its stance on the Ayodhya case, where the Places of Worship Act was interpreted as not preventing the determination of the religious nature of a site. This legal stance has opened the door for future challenges against other religious sites, potentially leading to an escalation of disputes over Indias vast and complex religious heritage. Strategic Silence: The Calculated Response of the RSS The relative quiet from the RSS on these issues signals a more cautious approach to religious disputes. While right-wing organisation have historically been vocal about reclaiming religious sites and challenging the status quo, the silence of the RSS on the Sambhal and Ajmer cases reveals a strategic hesitation. Senior RSS leaders have voiced concerns that an overzealous pursuit of claims on every contested site could undermine the focus on more genuine cases such as those involving Kashi and Mathura, where they believe Hindus have stronger historical claims. This measured approach, championed by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, emphasises the importance of restraint and harmony, with Bhagwat himself cautioning against raising new issues every day. His calls for unity and dialogue aim to prevent the escalation of religious tensions, reminding followers that Hindu-Muslim relations must not be defined by legal claims alone. Despite Bhagwats calls for restraint, the growing number of petitions related to religious sites suggests that some factions within the Sangh Parivar are more willing to pursue these legal battles, which are often driven by local or political motivations rather than ideological consistency. This division underscores the complex and often contradictory nature of Indias religious politics, where religious identity and historical grievances intersect with modern legal frameworks and political agendas. The Way Forward: Navigating Religious Sensitivities As legal petitions continue to challenge the status of religious sites across India, it is clear that the country is facing a delicate moment in its democratic and secular history. The judiciarys role in balancing historical claims with contemporary religious sensibilities will be crucial in determining the future of these disputes. The Places of Worship Act, which was meant to provide stability, is now at a crossroads, with petitions questioning its validity and relevance in the face of mounting public interest in religious identity. In navigating these sensitive issues, India must find a way to reconcile its diverse religious heritage with its commitment to secularism. The current trajectory of legal battles over sacred spaces risks deepening communal divides and triggering violent confrontations, as seen in Sambhal. At the same time, the silence of key political and ideological players like the Sangh Parivar suggests that they too are grappling with how best to manage these complex and often explosive issues. Indias ability to address these disputes in a manner that respects both its past and its pluralistic future will be critical in maintaining its social fabric. As the nation stands at this crossroads, the quest for justice, reconciliation and peace remains as urgent as ever. You are here: Business This photo taken on Aug. 13, 2024 shows the business district at Singapore's Marina Bay. [Photo/Xinhua] Chinese enterprises are doubling down on Singapore, drawn by its robust business environment and strategic role as a gateway to Southeast Asia, said a report released Monday by the China Enterprises Association (Singapore). A total of 67 percent of surveyed companies rated the business climate in Singapore as "excellent," and 33 percent deemed it "good," said the report published during the Fifth China-Singapore Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum. Key attractions include Singapore's efficient government services, tax system, and ease of international trade. These factors have fueled optimism, with 60 percent of respondents planning to expand their investments locally and regionally. Notably, 74 percent expect continued growth in investments in Singapore. The city-state's strategic location stands out, with 91 percent of firms recognizing its value in accessing Southeast Asian markets. Chinese enterprises also contribute significantly to the local economy, with 54 percent reporting that Singaporeans make up over 60 percent of their workforce. Meanwhile, 58 percent highlighted contributions to innovations in technology and services, while 40 percent pointed to green development. Regarding challenges, intensifying market competition and talent shortages were cited by 86 percent and 72 percent of respondents, respectively. Many companies called for greater support from the government and the association to address these issues. The findings are based on a mid-2024 survey involving over 100 Chinese enterprises operating across various sectors in Singapore. In 2025, PV Drilling will continue another ambitious journey to expand its operation, focusing on the competitive Southeast Asian region. Throughout its 23 years of development, PV Drilling has made significant strides, establishing itself as the reputable drilling contractor and technical well services provider in both domestic and regional markets. Pursuing a strategy to expand drilling services into deeper waters and penetrate international markets, PV Drilling operates its headquarters in HCM City, along with machinery and equipment workshops in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province's Vung Tau City. Additionally, the company has established drilling management offices in Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia to support oil and gas exploration and production activities in Viet Nam and Southeast Asia. With nearly 2,000 employees at its headquarters and 13 subsidiaries, PV Drilling has demonstrated its extensive capabilities and service quality, including drilling rig operations, technical well services, skilled offshore personnel, mechanical fabrication, equipment inspection, maintenance, and repair services for the oil and gas industry and other industries. This year highlighted PV Drillings exceptional effort in conquering the regional market, as all offshore rigs were fully operational throughout the year. Notably, several rigs secured long-term contracts extending to 2028 in key markets such as Malaysia and Indonesia. PV Drilling's owned rigs consistently achieved high operational efficiency while maintaining and ensuring Zero LTI (Lost Time Incidents) across all operations in demanding markets such as Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. Under the ONE PVD strategy, PV Drillings subsidiaries, including PVD DD, PVD Tech, PVD Logging, and PVD Well Services, made significant breakthroughs in expanding their service to international markets. It also marked a significant milestone for PV Drilling as it expanded its service portfolio by securing a lump-sum contract for the Song oc decommissioning project, which commenced this December. Remarkably, this is Vietnams first mine destruction project, and PV Drilling is the lead contractor in a joint venture with partners from the Petrovietnam ecosystem. Additionally, an investment in a Hydraulic Workover Unit (HWU), a three-legged multi-purpose jack-up rig with cantilever, and other advanced technical equipment, alongside the establishment of a joint venture in Indonesia, demonstrated PV Drillings bold yet strategic step. These actions reflect its commitment to expanding services, and creating a new driving force for growth in its journey to reach out to the ocean. With remarkable efforts in 2024, PV Drilling achieved outstanding results, exceeding its business targets. This reflects its strong commitment to sustainable development, innovation, and its positive impact on the community, customers and partners. Riglogix forecasts that over the next four years, the Southeast Asia region will require approximately 45 to 50 jack-up rigs annually. In 2025, PV Drilling will continue its journey of expanding into the global market, focusing particularly on Southeast Asia, where its subsidiaries also have substantial opportunities to increase market share. In order to strengthen its internal capacity, PV Drilling will further enhance corporate governance, with particular emphasis on ESG practices. The company will also bolster financial management and cash flow, implement financial reporting under IFRS standards and invest in training high-quality technical manpower while pursuing a strategy to localise management and rig operation teams. PV Drilling anticipates even stronger breakthrough in 2025, aiming for sustainable development. VNS HA NOI Rice exports set new records in both volume and value in 2024 but the commodity is expected to face a difficult year ahead as India lifted its ban on non-basmati white rice exports in September, which will push up global rice supplies next year. Statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development showed that rice export totalled nine million tonnes, valued at US$5.7 billion in 2024, representing a rise of 11 per cent in volume and 24 per cent in value over 2023. Average rice export prices also set a record high of more than $600 per tonne this year. Viet Nam ranked third in the world in terms of rice exports, coming after India with an export volume of 17 million tonnes and Thailand with a six-year high export volume of 10 million tonnes, thanks to strong demand from Indonesia and the Philippines. The Philippines is Viet Nams largest rice import market with a volume of 3.6 million tonnes, accounting for 40 per cent of the total rice exports and 79 per cent of the Philippiness total rice imports, with Indonesia and Malaysia following. According to the Viet Nam Food Association (VFA), the nation is developing a rice industry focusing on fragrant rice and high-quality rice, while gradually reducing its reliance on low-quality rice. Looking ahead to 2025, VFAs President Nguyen Ngoc Nam said that Viet Nams rice export might face difficulties, including the resumption of export of India. India is forecast to export around 22 million tonnes of rice in 2025, five million tonnes higher than 2024. Rice export prices of Viet Nam dropped significantly in December, with the export price of five per cent broken rice seeing a decrease by $17 from early December to $485 per tonne, below that of Thai rice at $501, putting it at the lowest level for the past 19 months. Similarly, the prices of 25 per cent broken rice and 100 per cent prices also dropped to $459 and $388 per tonne respectively. The drops in export prices reflect the changes in the global supply and demand, particularly when India lifted its export restrictions, on the expectation of a bumper harvest. In addition, the Philippines' temporary halt of rice imports, awaiting the upcoming winter-spring crop, also helped lower Viet Nams rice export prices. Other factors concerning rice producers include the prediction that Indonesia too will reduce rice imports in 2025 and China has also significantly reduced rice imports in 2024, according to Nam. To support rice exporters, Nam said supports in lending and tax refunds were needed. Trade promotions should be strengthened to take advantage of free trade agreements (FTAs) to expand export markets as well as providing timely market updates to producers. According to the Deputy Director of the Department of Crop Production under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, the focus will be on developing high-quality rice plantation areas and promotion of sustainable agriculture models. Huong also urged rice exporters to focus on improving rice quality and building brands to increase the competitiveness of Vietnamese rice. Despite slight drops in rice export prices due to increase in global supplies, Vietnamese rice would still have opportunity to compete based on quality, she stressed. VNS HA NOI Exports of HRC steel in November continued to be mired in gloom, so companies are being forced to return to the domestic market to increase consumption. According to the Viet Nam Steel Association (VSA), total hot-rolled coil (HRC) consumption continued to decline sharply, especially exports. HRC steel sales in November decreased by about 18 per cent year-on-year to 499,000 tonnes. Of which, the steel exports plummeted by more than 70 per cent, to 101,000 tonnes. However, steel production in November was almost unchanged at 548,108 tonnes compared to the same period last year. In the first 11 months of this year, the HRC steel sales decreased by two per cent year on year to six million tonnes. Of which, the exports decreased by 31 per cent to 2.2 million tonnes. The big fall in HRC exports was due to competition from Chinese rivals in the global market, the Vietnam Entrepreneur Magazine reported. S&P Global cited data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China showing that China's finished steel exports over January-November rose 22.6 per cent year-on-year to about 101.2 million tonnes. Their lower domestic demand, due to the lack of recovery in the real estate sector, has forced Chinese steel producers to boost steel exports with cheaper prices to other countries. In addition, Viet Nam is also under pressure from trade defensive measures across some major export markets. Vietnamese HRC steel has faced two investigations on imposing anti-dumping taxes in India and also in the EU markets. The EU is the second largest export market for all kinds of steel from Viet Nam, accounting for 25 per cent of the total, while India ranks fifth, holding four per cent of the total export volume. The difficulty in the export market has led local steel producers to find ways of boosting domestic sales. HRC steel consumption in the domestic market in the first 11 months of this year reached nearly 3.9 million tonnes, an increase of 28 per cent over the same period last year. In the first 11 months, galvanised steel production increased by 26 per cent year on year to 5.2 million tonnes, while sales surged by 33 per cent to more than five million tonnes. Steel pipe output rose by four per cent to 2.25 million tonnes. According to the Viet Nam Steel Association (VSA), the domestic steel market recorded positive impacts from the demand for galvanised steel and construction steel to re-roof houses and repair structures damaged by recent storms. In addition, Viet Nam also instigated anti-dumping measures against HRC steel imports from China and India, so the pressure of Chinese steel on the local market has begun to cool down. November was the first month of this year to record a decrease of 20 per cent year-on-year in steel volumes imported from China to 876,000 tonnes. Viet Nam only has two HRC steel producers with a maximum capacity of about 8 million tonnes in total, including 5 million from Formosa and 3 million from Hoa Phat. The deputy director of stock analysis at SSI Research, ao Minh Chau, said that next year, the steel industry would benefit from the recovery cycle of the real estate industry and the major public investment projects. In a recent report, Viet Nam Steel Corporation (VNSTEEL) also expected the domestic steel market to be more vibrant in the final months of this year. VNS HA NOI As one of the countries with the fastest-growing national brand globally, Viet Nam is cementing its position on the global economic map. This remarkable achievement reflects the relentless efforts of the Government and business community, as well as recognition from prestigious international organisations. Before 1986, the concept of 'branding' was virtually nonexistent among Vietnamese businesses. During the early years of the oi moi (renewal) process, the idea of a business growing its brand was largely overlooked, as enterprises focused primarily on the domestic market, with minimal involvement in international trade or export activities. From 1995 onwards, as Viet Nam embraced economic reforms and international integration and so the notion of a national brand began to take hold. Initially limited to trade and import-export sectors, the concept gradually expanded to include culture, tourism, media and technology. The Vietnam Value Programme, a distinctive and long-term trade promotion initiative, was launched under the Prime Ministers Decision No. 253/2003/Q-TTg, issued on November 25, 2003. Focused on three core values - quality, innovation, and pioneering capacity - the programme aims to showcase Viet Nams image and build a strong national brand through high-quality products. In 2008, April 20 was designated as Vietnam Brand Day, an annual event to honour and promote the country's unique products and established marks. The number of businesses receiving the Vietnam Value title has grown significantly, from 30 in 2008 to 190 in 2024, representing 359 products that embody Viet Nams national brand. Over the past 20 years, the Vietnam Value Programme has played a pivotal role in helping enterprises build and promote their brands, boosting production, business growth and exports. These efforts have established Viet Nams reputation as a nation producing high-quality goods and services with strong competitive edge across many international markets. Viet Nams national brand has achieved remarkable heights, leaving an indelible mark on the global branding landscape. In 2023, Brand Finance, the worlds leading independent brand valuation consultant, valued Viet Nams national brand at US$498.13 billion, a 15.6 per cent increase from 2022. This ranking placed Viet Nam 33rd among the worlds 121 strongest national brands. Between 2019 and 2023, the value of Viet Nams national brand grew by 102 per cent, making it one of the fastest-growing brands in the world. Breakthrough solutions To further elevate Viet Nams national brand, the country must implement groundbreaking strategies while maximising its core potential and values. Despite its impressive achievements, Viet Nam faces challenges in sustaining and developing its national brand. These include a lack of links between certain brands and high-quality export products, reliance on raw or unbranded exports and increasing competition from neighbouring and global economies that are also prioritising brand development. To take Viet Nams national brand to new heights, breakthrough solutions are needed. These solutions must centre on enterprises, while ensuring concerted collaboration among governmental agencies and support from society. A crucial step in advancing Viet Nams national brand is raising awareness among businesses and society about the significance of branding. According to Hoang Minh Chien, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade), under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), branding not only adds value to products, but also serves as a strategic tool for businesses to position themselves in the global marketplace. Organising communication campaigns, specialised seminars and awareness-raising initiatives is therefore vital. Additionally, integrating branding education into university curricula, particularly in economics and business administration, can lay a solid foundation for future generations to contribute to national brand development. Enterprises are at the centre of Viet Nams national brand development strategy. Supporting businesses in brand building and management is essential for strengthening their internal capabilities. Chien emphasised the importance of ongoing support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through specialised training programmes, financial assistance and technical support. He also said that encouraging the adoption of modern technologies for brand management and improving product quality would empower Vietnamese businesses to establish strong, globally competitive names which resonate across markets. In the context of climate change and the increasing trend of sustainable consumption, building the manufacture of products aligned with green values is critical to enhancing Viet Nams national brand. Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan stressed that Viet Nams national brand must be defined by quality, and its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. Thus, businesses were encouraged to adopt circular economic models, use recycled materials and minimise waste. According to the MoIT, demand for green products in Viet Nam grew by an average of 15 per cent annually from 2021 to 2023. Furthermore, 72 per cent of Vietnamese consumers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products, signalling an opportunity for enterprises to enhance product value, while improving Viet Nams global brand image. According to Managing Director of Brand Finance Asia-Pacific, Alex Haigh, a strong national brand is defined not only by product quality, but also by the values it represents. To effectively promote these values, businesses should fully exploit digital platforms such as social media and e-commerce for product promotion. Participation in international trade fairs and trade promotion programmes provides another venue to introduce Viet Nams national brand-certified products to global markets, affirming their values and positioning. Chien stressed that protecting intellectual property was a prerequisite for sustainable development. Businesses must register their intellectual property rights both domestically and internationally, particularly in major trading partner countries, he said. Governmental agencies should also strengthen legal frameworks to address brand disputes and enhance the intellectual property protection system. With innovative solutions and the concerted efforts of the business community, Viet Nam is poised to achieve its goal of becoming one of the regions strongest national brands. This advancement will elevate the countrys standing, while fostering sustainable economic, alongside cultural and social development. VNS HA NOI The stock market started the new week on a downbeat note, with the VN-Index edging closer to the 1,270-point mark, accompanied by a significant drop in liquidity. Meanwhile, foreign investors continued their net-buying streak. On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index closed at 1,272.02 points, down by 3.12 points or 0.24 per cent. Market breadth remained negative, with 203 stocks declining, 108 advancing and 57 unchanged. Trading liquidity fell sharply to approximately VN11.6 trillion (US$455.3 million), marking a 30.9 per cent decrease compared to the previous session. Meanwhile, the VN30-Index, which tracks the 30 largest-cap stocks on the HoSE, edged up slightly by 0.51 points, or 0.04 per cent, to 1,347.35 points. Within the VN30 basket, 20 stocks fell, six advanced and four remained unchanged. The overall market downturn was primarily driven by blue-chip banking stocks. The Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID) experienced the sharpest decline, sliding by 2.3 per cent and erasing over 1.2 points from the VN-Index. Other notable laggards included the Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (TCB), down 0.81 per cent and the Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank (MBB), which fell by one per cent. However, gains in select large-cap stocks helped cushion the market's losses. The Ho Chi Minh City Development Joint Stock Commercial Bank (HDB) hit its daily limit, rising by 6.81 per cent and contributing nearly 1.6 points to the VN-Index. Additionally, the Fortune Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank (LPB) increased by 1.77 per cent, while the FPT Corporation (FPT) advanced by 0.6 per cent and the Sai Gon Thuong Tin Commercial Joint Stock Bank (STB) rose by 1.2 per cent. Analysts from Viet Dragon Securities commented: "The market experienced sideways movements with a narrow candlestick pattern near the resistance zone of 1,275 points. Liquidity fell compared to the previous session, indicating a slowdown in cash flow after recent support-driven momentum. "The current cautious sentiment is a typical reaction following a sharp rebound, reflecting an ongoing tug-of-war between supply and demand. This suggests the market may continue testing the 1,265 1,270-point support zone in the next trading session. "Investors can maintain short-term expectations for market support and recovery while seizing opportunities in stocks showing strength from support zones. However, caution is needed when taking profits in stocks that have advanced rapidly to resistance levels or when restructuring portfolios." On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index declined by 0.43 per cent, to close at 228.14 points. Trading value on the northern exchange reached over VN662 billion, with trading volume surpassing 42 million shares. Foreign investors continued their net-buying activity, purchasing over VN351 billion worth of shares on the HoSE and VN5.8 billion on the HNX. VNS HA NOI Indias Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into nylon filament yarn imported from China and Viet Nam, the Trade Remedies Authority of Viet Nam reports. The product under investigation is nylon filament yarn with the Harmonisation System (HS) codes 54021910, 54021990, 54023100, 54023200, 54024500, 54025100, 54026100, and 54021920. The complainants are the three Indian companies Century Enka Private Limited, Gujarat Polyfilms Private Limited, and Oriilon India Private Limited. The period of investigation for dumping is from April 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024 (15 months). The injury investigation period is from April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021, from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, from April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023, plus the period of investigation. According to the Trade Remedies Authority of Viet Nam, the complainants have not proposed the product classification codes (PCN) as a basis for price comparison. The DGTR has requested that stakeholders propose and comment on the product scope and classification codes within 15 days from the initiation date, which is by January 9, 2025, at the latest. Comments should be sent to the agency via four emails: adg16-dgtr@gov.in, adv11-dgtr@gov.in, jd11-dgtr@gov.in, and dd19-dgtr@gov.in within 30 days from the date the public complaint is sent to the company or the diplomatic representative of the exporting country, which are China and Viet Nam. If no information is received within the deadline and in the prescribed format, the available information will be used to make a determination on the case. The Trade Remedies Authority recommends that Vietnamese associations and businesses involved in the production and export of the investigated goods carefully review the initiation notice, and proactively request the DGTR for any necessary information and documents during this phase. Businesses should proactively submit comments to the DGTR, respond to their investigation questionnaires in a timely manner, comply with confidentiality obligations, and disclose information publicly to other stakeholders. They are encouraged to contact the authority for support during the process. VNS HA NOI The prestigious US travel magazine Travel + Leisure has recently announced its list of the best restaurants and bars in Viet Nam winning the Tastemakers 2024 Awards, three of which are located in top regional hotels. Travel + Leisure is one of the worlds leading publications on travel and lifestyle in the US, with a team of editorial experts in food and travel, serving as a guide for global travellers, especially those who enjoy premium and unique experiences. Recently, the magazine has announced the Tastemakers 2024 Awards, honouring 25 outstanding restaurants and ten bars in eight countries across Southeast Asia. The list was selected by a panel of world-leading culinary experts. This is a "golden list" for travellers to reference while exploring unique flavours at the region's most vibrant culinary destinations. In Viet Nam's list, two hotels stand out with their restaurants and bars making the top rankings: Capella Hanoi with the restaurant Hibana by Koki and the bar The Hudson Rooms, as well as InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort with the restaurant La Maison 1888. Hibana by Koki - The Essence of Japanese Cuisine The first restaurant selected by Travel + Leisure is the Michelin-starred restaurant Hibana by Koki, located at Capella Hanoi, a familiar spot for food enthusiasts in the capital, serving exquisite teppanyaki Japanese cuisine. Hibana by Koki is led by genius chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi and advisory chef Yoshida Junichi, the first chef in the world to receive a Michelin star for Teppanyaki. Upon entering Hibana by Koki, guests are welcomed into a refined and emotional space, with dishes made from the finest ingredients, not easily found even in world-renowned restaurants. Perhaps the most impressive dish there is the premium Yaeyama Kyori beef, meticulously prepared on the teppan for nearly an hour to create a deep umami flavour, or dishes made from Japanese sea bass and hairy crab from cold Hokkaido waters. All create an unforgettable tasting experience. At the Michelin-starred teppanyaki [a style of Japanese cuisine that uses an iron griddle to cook. The term "Teppanyaki" finds its roots in the Japanese language, where "teppan" translates to a metal plate or griddle, and "yaki" signifies grilling, frying, and pan-frying techniques], chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi prepares luxurious dishes like Hokkaido crab and abalone accompanied by various exquisite sake, Travel + Leisure describes. The Hudson Rooms an US-styled classy space The Capella Hanoi is honoured not only with its dishes but also drinks. The Hudson Rooms bar is among ten best bars in Viet Nam. This 120-seat restaurant and bar takes guests back to the golden age of New York in the 1920s, serving cocktails and whisky with oysters, caviar, and seaweed bread, Travel + Leisure introduces. The Hudson Rooms establishes its reputation with signature cocktails inspired by the iconic American railways of the 1920s, while the space takes inspiration from the bustling Grand Central Station in New York, combined with a view of a corner of Ha Noi's Old Quarter, creating an interesting culinary experience for guests. Behind the bar is talented bartender Nguyen Ngoc Khanh (Patrick) and a passionate young bartender team under the guidance of bar manager Sean Halse. The Hudson Rooms also successfully impressed 260 judges from William Reed Business Media to be listed among Asia's Best Bars 2024, further affirming Capella Hanoi's quality of service. La Maison 1888 - The Only Restaurant in a Nang with a Michelin Star As the jewel of the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, this luxurious Michelin-starred restaurant showcases a fusion of French and Vietnamese flavours crafted by legendary chef Christian Le Squer, Travel + Leisure introduces. Designed like a classic French mansion in Indochinese style, La Maison 1888 stands out amidst the lush greenery of the pristine forest. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu, presenting exquisite French cuisine perfectly combined with local ingredients and flavours. The fresh seafood from Son Tra beach, under the boundless creativity and skilled craftsmanship of the chefs, is transformed into unique masterpieces such as Hokkaido-style grilled scallops and Vietnamese boiled snails wrapped in Italian Cannelloni pasta. All create a distinctive culinary experience that cannot be found anywhere else in Viet Nam or even the world. This is also the only location in Viet Nam that possesses rare and precious wines from the Austrian White Chateau-Grillet brand in southern Austria. Under the guidance of sommelier Toan Nguyen, winner of the Michelin Guide Sommelier Award 2024, La Maison 1888 has consistently received the prestigious Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence since 2018. Not only being honoured by Travel + Leisure, La Maison 1888 also received a "double win" as it was simultaneously featured by Time Out, one of the oldest and most widely read magazines in the UK. The magazine used the restaurant as an example to help a Nang affirm its position on the journey to becoming one of the region's most vibrant culinary hubs. This award from Travel + Leisure not only recognises the excellence of the restaurants and bar but also acknowledges the leading hotel brands in Viet Nam, which continuously enhance the leisure experience while focusing on the journey of "nurturing" taste, making every trip for domestic and international travellers memorable, and demonstrating the status of Vietnamese luxury cuisine on the world map. VNA/VNS Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bui Thanh Son, talks to the press about Viet Nam's diplomatic achievements over the past year and outlined the direction of Viet Nams foreign policy as it enters a new era. Could you please share your overall assessment of Viet Nams diplomatic landscape this year? The global situation continued to be marked by complexity, instability and numerous conflicts this year. Urgent global issues such as climate change, natural disasters, pandemics, food security and water security have had far-reaching impacts, posing serious threats to the stable and sustainable development of countries worldwide. Nevertheless, Viet Nam can be proud that in such a context, we have maintained peace, stability and development, with the international community recognising our country as one of the region's bright spots. Our foreign activities have been proactive, dynamic and result-oriented, enhancing our diplomatic standing and paving the way for Viet Nam to step confidently into a new era of national growth. Here are some of the most notable highlights. Anchored in the principles of independence, self-reliance and multilateralism, Viet Nams foreign diplomacy has become more dynamic, creative and assertive. This year, our diplomatic activities, especially at the highest levels, have been extensive, spanning continents and key multilateral forums. The leadership engaged in 60 foreign missions, including 21 visits to various countries and participation in important multilateral meetings, while hosting 25 foreign delegations. Additionally, we have strengthened international agreements and commitments, resulting in the signing of over 170 new cooperative deals across various sectors. International partners increasingly recognise the importance of their relations with Viet Nam. This year, we upgraded our partnerships to a Strategic Comprehensive Partnership with major countries such as Australia, France and Malaysia, and Strategic Partnerships with Brazil. We also established Comprehensive Partnerships with Mongolia and the UAE. Through the initiatives, we have expanded diplomatic ties with 32 key partners, including neighbouring countries, global powers and traditional friends. With the establishment of diplomatic relations with Malawi, Viet Nam now has formal ties with every African country, bringing the total number of countries with diplomatic relations to 194. Economic diplomacy has made significant contributions to the countrys economic achievements despite global economic challenges. Economic matters have increasingly become a priority in our foreign relations, particularly at high levels. This has facilitated cooperation with major partners such as China, the United States, Japan, South Korea and India in areas like digital transformation, green transformation, semiconductor manufacturing and AI. Our participation in new supply chains and expansion of export markets, through 17 signed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), further strengthened our position. The total export-import turnover is expected to exceed US$800 billion, while Viet Nam remains one of the worlds top Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) recipients. Tourism is also thriving, with over 15.8 million international tourists visiting Viet Nam this year, marking a 44 per cent increase from the previous year. Amid global upheavals, the synergy between defence, security and diplomacy has ensured the protection of Viet Nam's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Diplomatic efforts have maintained peaceful borders and stability, successfully negotiating with various nations to resolve outstanding issues. Notably, we have advanced the Code of Conduct in the East Sea, based on international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). On the multilateral front, Viet Nam has strengthened its global position and influence, contributing positively to international forums such as ASEAN, AIPA, the United Nations, APEC, G20, G7 and BRICS. Our active role has led to valuable contributions to key global issues, including climate change, food security and cyber security. As a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council and key UNESCO committees, Viet Nam has used its position to advance global governance and the international legal framework, with a strong commitment to peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. The country's position and strength are constantly enhanced by the effective resonance of foreign affairs such as foreign information, cultural diplomacy, work with overseas Vietnamese and citizen protection. Diplomacy has contributed to successfully lobbying UNESCO to add six more heritages, bringing the total number of UNESCO titles to 71, creating a new resource for economic, cultural and social development in localities. Work with overseas Vietnamese has well implemented the Party and State's care policy for nearly six million people, mobilising resources for development with thousands of investment projects and tens of billions of dollars in remittances. Citizen protection works actively to protect the security, safety, legitimate and legal rights and interests of Vietnamese citizens and businesses, especially in war zones, natural disasters and instability. External information service strongly promotes the image of the country, its people, culture and socio-economic development achievements, contributing to creating consensus and support from the people at home as well as the international community. With Viet Nam's increasing contributions at multilateral forums, what further steps should be taken in the field of multilateral diplomacy to enhance Viet Nams global standing and create a conducive environment for national development? Strengthening multilateral diplomacy is a consistent and strategic priority for us. Multilateral institutions and forums are vital in addressing pressing security and development issues that affect Viet Nam. As the global landscape evolves rapidly, all nations, regardless of size, face the need to cooperate and form alliances to tackle urgent challenges. Moving forward, we have shifted from merely 'participating' to actively promoting our role as a 'responsible, engaged member' who initiates and leads new ideas and partnerships. In 2024, this shift has been reflected in several key initiatives across major regional and global forums like ASEAN, the United Nations, APEC, G20, G7, BRICS and AIPA. At the global level, Viet Nam continues to successfully assume its role as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, 6/7 key executive mechanisms of UNESCO. In addition, we have actively built and shaped important global processes such as the Future Summit, the Global Compact on Plastic Waste, the UN Secretary-General's Advisory Board on essential minerals for energy transition, Viet Nam's responsible contributions to common issues such as combating climate change, maintaining peace in Africa and combating cybercrime. The international community recognises Viet Nams growing influence, as highlighted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who praised the country as a model of peace and sustainable development in a discussion with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil. Looking to 2025, a pivotal year for multilateral diplomacy, Viet Nam will continue to host major events such as the ASEAN Future Forum and the fourth Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals (P4G) summit, the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) conference, continuing to successfully undertake important responsibilities and tasks in multilateral organisations and forums such as ASEAN, the Mekong Sub-region, APEC and United Nation mechanisms, including those of UNESCO and the UN Women Executive Council (2025-27). At the same time, Viet Nam continues to run for positions that are consistent with our priorities and interests, such as running for the Human Rights Council for the 2026-28 term, for the first time having a candidate for the position of Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for the 2026-35 term. Could you share some thoughts on Viet Nams foreign relations and diplomacy in the new era of the country? As Party General Secretary To Lam has stated, our country stands at the threshold of a new historical phase. Bringing the country into a new era is in line with global trends, as well as drawing from the experiences of nations that have advanced before us. The history of human development has proven that for a country to thrive in global politics, economics and civilisation, it requires a strong breakthrough that brings about a fundamental qualitative shift. The new era demands the involvement of all sectors, fields and forces within the political system and of the entire nation. The lessons learned from nations that have advanced before us show that in the process, foreign relations play a crucial role in positioning Viet Nam advantageously within the currents of the age, combining national strength with the power of the times to drive the country's progress. First, in today's interdependent world, the stability and development of nations are inextricably linked to the regional and international environment. The key to the nation's rise lies in ensuring a strategic environment of peace, friendship and cooperation that is conducive to development. Therefore, the task of foreign relations is to strengthen and maintain the stable environment amidst global fluctuations, creating the conditions for the country to enter a new phase of development. Second, foreign relations can serve as a driving force, creating new opportunities for the countrys advancement. In the context, foreign relations play the role of connecting internal and external forces, where internal strength is the foundation, enduring and long-term, while external strength provides breakthroughs. They include resources such as trade, investment, ODA and the development and economic integration trends. The multi-polar, multi-centre world order, based on international law, as well as the power of the current eras scientific and technological revolution, knowledge-based economy and globalisation are all parts of this. Additionally, the new economic, security, defence and diplomatic power of the nation in the modern era demands a shift in both mindset and position for Viet Nam on the international stage. Viet Nam now has the capacity and conditions to engage more significantly in international affairs, with an increasing expectation to contribute more to peace, development and the resolution of global challenges. Our role is vital in shaping and safeguarding an international order that is fair and equitable, underpinned by international law. Fourth, the historical and cultural stature, as well as the political and economic position of our country, provide a foundation for strengthening the 'soft power' of the nation. This promotes a strong image of Viet Nam as an independent, self-reliant, peace-loving, cooperative and development-oriented nation. This soft power draws upon our rich national culture, the great achievements of our renewal process, our peaceful foreign policy, our balanced approach to global issues, our respect for international law and the widespread global support for our efforts. Finally, to propel the country into the new era requires the construction of a foreign relations framework that is increasingly comprehensive, modern and professional, aligned with the demands of the new phase. This involves streamlining the organisational structure responsible for foreign affairs, ensuring its efficient and effective operation, in tandem with policies that facilitate diplomatic work. It also calls for the development of a foreign service that is not only highly skilled and capable but also politically astute, with the courage to think creatively, innovate and pioneer new paths, equipped with the necessary skills and expertise to operate at an international level. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam's economic diplomacy in 2024 has asserted a leading role with remarkable breakthroughs, achieving key objectives and opening up a "grand path" full of hope for fast and sustainable development. In the final days of the year, the impact of economic diplomacy has become even more evident through cooperation agreements with global tech giants. NVIDIA, a leading company in artificial intelligence (AI), has committed to establishing an AI research and development centre and an AI data centre in Viet Nam. Meanwhile, Apple has announced plans to increase investment in its supply chain, adding another crucial piece to solidify Viet Nam's position on the global technology manufacturing map. These are vivid demonstrations of Viet Nam's "technology diplomacy" approach, opening doors for its economy to enter the era of global innovation. Economic diplomacy in Viet Nam is focused not only on maintaining growth momentum but also on renewing drivers of growth, from traditional pillars such as exports and investment to new areas like the digital economy, green economy, and circular economy, as well as breakthrough sectors like high-tech, innovation, semiconductor, hydrogen, AI, and the Halal industry. Through nearly 60 diplomatic activities by the Party and State leaders and over 170 cooperation agreements throughout the year, Vietnam has connected with global partners, particularly unlocking new growth drivers from Latin America to the Middle East, Africa, and members of the Group of Seven (G7). A key highlight in 2024 was the working visit by To Lam, in his position as Party General Secretary and State President, to the US in September to attend the High-Level Week of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. His meetings with leaders of top global groups such as Apple, Meta, and Google laid a solid foundation for foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction, technology transfer, and the development of innovative sectors such as AI, digital transformation, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These opportunities will promote sustainable growth for Viet Nam's economy but also lay the groundwork for the country to enter an era of comprehensive innovation and integration into global supply chains. The visit by State President Luong Cuong to Chile and Peru in November has helped enhance economic and trade relations, particularly within the framework of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), as well as in areas like information technology, digital transformation, and smart city building. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's trip to Brazil has contributed to elevating the two countries relations to a strategic partnership, opening up broader cooperation opportunities. Brazil will serve as a gateway for Viet Nam to access Latin American markets and the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR), as Viet Nam is negotiating a free trade agreement with this bloc. Viet Nam's economic diplomacy has also left a bold mark in the Middle East. The Government leader's visits to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have brought breakthroughs in cooperation on clean energy, green transition, and Halal industry development. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Vietnam and the UAE is seen as a historic milestone, not only paving the way for Viet Nam to enter the Middle Eastern and African markets but also serving as a solid stepping stone for bilateral strategic cooperation. According to Viet Nam's Ambassador to the UAE Nguyen Thanh Diep, the CEPA will promote the transfer of technical and managerial expertise, support human resources training, and facilitate investment in Halal certification centres in Viet Nam. These steps not only contribute to building a domestic Halal ecosystem but also help Viet Nam integrate more deeply into global supply chains, affirming its new position on the international trade map. Regarding the Halal industry, Malaysia has become an ideal strategic partner to support Viet Nam in developing this sector, following the official visit to the country by Party General Secretary To Lam on November 21-23, during which the two countries upgraded their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Jamilah Haji Hassan, Senior Director of ASEAN Economic Integration at Malaysias Ministry of International Trade and Industry, stated that Malaysia is ready to assist Vietnamese businesses in improving production processes and obtaining Halal certificates, helping Viet Nam penetrate the Muslim market. On the last days of this year, around 1,000 Vietnamese companies were awarded Halal certificates, with over 3,000 products showcased at the Halal Melaka Festival 2024 in Malaysia, paving the way for connections between Vietnamese businesses and international partners. The upgrade of ties with Australia, France, and Malaysia to comprehensive strategic partnerships in 2024 has enabled Viet Nam to expand cooperation in strategic fields such as renewable energy, innovation, and climate change response. In an interview with the Vietnam News Agencys correspondent in Sydney, Hal Hill, an emeritus professor at the Crawford School of Public Policy at the Australian National University, emphasised that these partnerships will help Viet Nam remain resilient in the face of global fluctuations while effectively implementing its economic diversification strategy. Professor Chu Hoang Long, also from the Australian National University, affirmed that these developments present an opportunity for Viet Nam to attract additional key investments in renewable energy, foster innovation, and strengthen its position on the global economic map. For France, the upgrade of bilateral relations has created momentum to drive cooperation in such areas as nuclear technology, energy transition, urban transportation, and railways. In addition, both sides are also looking to expand collaboration in satellite technology and the digital economy - sectors with significant potential to support Viet Nam in modernising its infrastructure and achieving sustainable development. With Malaysia, Collins Chong Yew Keat, an expert from the University of Malaya, said that the two countries will further strengthen cooperation in key industries that are crucial to addressing regional and global geopolitical and geoeconomic issues, including semiconductor, green energy, and the digital economy. Viet Nam is also continuing to reinforce and elevate its comprehensive strategic partnerships with key partners such as China, Russia, India, the Republic of Korea, the US, and Japan, while advancing trade links with the European Union (EU). These efforts not only affirm its position on the global stage but also generate significant opportunities to deepen collaboration in various strategic sectors. The enhanced multilateral economic cooperation is paving the way for Viet Nam to firmly establish its position in the global economy. In 2024, the country has made significant strides in deepening its strategic relationships, especially at major multilateral forums such as the UN, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the G7, and the Group of Twenty (G20). Viet Nam's proposals and initiatives on digital transformation, green transition, global governance, and sustainable supply chains have helped shape the regional and global economic orders in a more open and sustainable direction. Through multilateral activities, Viet Nam's image as a dynamic economy, ready to cooperate in and contribute to global issues, has been reinforced. As a result, a "grand path" is opening up for the country to promote "infrastructure diplomacy", particularly in high-speed rail, seaport, and airport projects to attract preferential loans from strategic partners such as Japan, the RoK, and international financial institutions. Sustainable links in strategic sectors continue to promise prospects for economic diplomacy to make strong breakthroughs in the coming year, particularly in areas such as aerospace, marine space, and emerging sectors like the sharing economy and the night economy. The grand path has been paved for Viet Nam to prepare for further strategic advances in the era of the nations rise. VNA/VNS Bo Xuan Hiep HCM CITY For many, including 80-year-old veteran Nguyen Van am, the moment that HCM City, where he has lived for over 50 years, opened its first-ever metro line is particularly poignant. Viet Nams largest city has been buzzing with excitement over the past week as the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line was finally opened to the public on December 22 after years of delay. The atmosphere remains electric as residents have been flocking to the metro, which took 17 years to complete. Ive waited 17 years for this metro line to come to life, and after 12 long years of construction, its finally here, am told Viet Nam News with a gleam of joy in his eyes. At my age, I never thought Id witness such modern infrastructure in my lifetime. This is truly thrilling for me and everyone in the city. The 19.7-km metro has already welcomed over 900,000 riders in just its inaugural week, with an average of around 113,500 passengers each day, eager to experience this new mode of transportation. The weekend saw a peak, with nearly 201,000 people riding the trains on Sunday alone, a figure that far exceeds the operators initial estimate of 39,000 daily riders. With free rides currently offered, locals are seizing the opportunity to explore the new line, with some hopping on multiple times in a single day. The experience is made even smoother with friendly staff on hand to guide passengers through the gates. However, during peak hours, some stations are bustling with activity, prompting the HCM City Urban Railway Company No. 1 (HURC1) to deploy extra personnel to assist the excited crowds. The metro operates nine trains daily, running around 200 trips between 5am and 10pm, with trains arriving every eight to 12 minutes. A journey from Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu uc City to lively Ben Thanh Market in District 1 takes around 30 minutes, with brief stops at each station along the way. Cao Thi Bich Van, 50, who sells noodle soup at Ben Thanh Market, said: Many of my regulars from Thao ien in Thu uc City now tell me they can take the metro to Ben Thanh in just 15 minutes for a bowl of my soup! The metro will remain fare-free until January 20, 2025. After that, passengers can choose from a variety of ticket options, including single, one-day, three-day, and monthly passes. Fares will be affordable, ranging from VN7,000 to VN20,000 based on distance, with discounts for students and free rides for the elderly and disabled. Payment options are convenient, allowing passengers to scan a QR code via the HCM City Metro HURC app or use bank cards. Local resident o Van Phu, 38, from Binh Thanh District, said: Living in Binh Thanh, I never thought I could reach Ben Thanh Market in just a few minutes. The Ben Thanh Suoi Tien metro line, approved in 2007, faced numerous challenges that delayed its completion, including financial constraints. With an investment of VN43.7 trillion ($1.72 billion), the line features 14 stations, including three underground in the bustling city centre. Viet Nam is known for its vibrant motorbike culture, and its major cities such as HCM City and Ha Noi are currently struggling with worsening traffic congestion. In HCM City, the population has surged from 5.3 million in 2000 to over 9.2 million in 2021, leading to increased motorbike and car registrations, straining the existing traffic infrastructure. The implementation of the metro aims to meet the growing travel demands of residents and is expected to encourage more people to switch from personal vehicles to public transport. Ha Noi, the capital of Viet Nam, inaugurated Viet Nams first metro service, the Cat Linh - Ha ong metro line, in 2021, a decade after construction began. As someone who has witnessed this city evolve over nearly 50 years since liberation, it feels like a dream come true, shared 80-year-old veteran am with Viet Nam News. VNS China has established a technical committee for Artificial Intelligence (AI) standardization, which is among its efforts to advance the development of the AI industry and empower new industrialization, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on Monday. The new committee, which is overseen by the ministry, is responsible for formulating and revising industrial standards for AI-related sectors, the ministry said in an online statement. This is the first such technical committee that the ministry has established, marking a new phase in the standardization of the AI sector. The move aligns with decisions made at China's Central Economic Work Conference in early December, which emphasized the need to launch an "AI-plus" initiative and nurture industries of the future. China's core AI industry achieved a remarkable scale of 578.7 billion yuan (about 80.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, supported by a thriving ecosystem of 4,482 enterprises, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology shows. HA NOI - Five foreign fishermen were rescued off the coast of Con ao Island, Viet Nam, as reported by the Coast Guard Region 3 Command on Tuesday. Operating out of Vung Tau City in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, the command center received an urgent distress call regarding a fishing vessel approximately 60 nautical miles southeast of Con ao. The rescue operation was led by Colonel Nguyen Minh Khanh, deputy commander and chief of staff of the coast guard region. His team deployed the Coast Guard Ship 8005 early on Monday. The distressed vessel, CM 46799A, captained by Chinese national Lai Kin Wah, encountered severe water ingress and sank around 6am, forcing the crew to abandon ship and remain adrift on life buoys. The crew was located and rescued by 8am, thanks to the efforts of a nearby Vietnamese fishing boat, BTr 93992 TS, captained by Vo Huu Tinh from Ben Tre Province, who promptly contacted the mainland for emergency support. At around 5.30 pm the same day, despite challenging weather conditions at sea, the Coast Guard Ship 8005 successfully approached the BTr 93992 TS to provide emergency assistance to the rescued foreign fishermen. The crew received medical check-ups, meals, and water, ensuring their immediate needs were met. They are now in stable condition and have been transported to the mainland for further care. VNS DHAKA Bangladesh's interim government has taken the initiative to prepare a declaration of the July uprising based on national consensus. According to the Chief Advisor's Press Wing, the declaration will be adopted to consolidate the unity of people formed through the July mass uprising, the anti-fascist spirit, and the desire to reform the state, reports UNB. The declaration will be prepared, taking the opinions of all political parties, Students Against Discrimination and other student bodies. It will highlight the perspective of the July uprising, the basis of unity and the aspirations of people, says the press wing. The government hopes that this declaration will be presented before the nation within a few days. Earlier, the leaders of the Students Against Discrimination announced that they would hold an event, Proclamation of July Revolution, at the Central Shaheed Minar on Tuesday. The students and Jatiya Nagorik Committee said they requested supporters from districts and upazilas to attend the event. They also invited the BNP, Jamaat, Gono Odhikar Porishad, left parties, and civil society members. People who were injured in the uprising, family members of those martyred as well as doctors, teachers, labourers, and garment workers had been invited. Students Against Discrimination, which spearheaded the mass uprising that ousted the Hasina-led government, is set to outline a framework for a society free of discrimination. The declaration is supposed to present a vision to ensure equality, human dignity, and social justice, said the leaders, adding that they wanted to acknowledge people as sovereign entities. There will be a brief timeline of the series of incidents starting from the quota reform movement to eventually the fall of the regime. The Proclamation of Independence of the liberation war officially announced on April 17, 1971 had equality, human dignity and social justice as principles. According to the leaders, they will narrate the significant events of history including 1947, 1971 and an evaluation of those events. They will describe different historical events and explain why the aspirations of different movements failed. THE DAILY STAR/ANN KUALA LUMPUR Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that his official visits abroad and the visits of world dignitaries to Malaysia this year have significantly strengthened diplomatic ties, boosted investments, and enhanced the Southeast Asian nation's global standing. In a post on his Facebook on Monday, Anwar said that Malaysia is now regarded as a respected strategic partner, gaining recognition from leaders of major powers for its active role in championing global issues, especially supporting justice for the Palestinian people and its advocacy for a more just and balanced world order. By 2025, Malaysia is poised to lead ASEAN into a new era that is more inclusive and sustainable, he said. He noted that these visits generated a potential investment of 115.2 billion MYR (US$25.2 billion), with key investments from Germany (46 billion MYR), the Republic of Korea (32.8 billion MYR), Australia (24.5 billion MYR), Japan (1.45 billion MYR), and India (4.8 billion MYR). VNS BANGKOK Thailand will become an official partner of BRICS from January 1 onwards, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Monday. According to the ministry, the partnership is expected to strengthen international collaboration and offer opportunities for Thailand and BRICS members, particularly in trade, investment, and tourism. BRICS comprises emerging markets and high-potential developing countries, it said. The ministry also expects the partnership to boost the relationships between Thailand and BRICS members, as well as Thailands role in multilateral cooperation. Thailand is ready to collaborate with BRICS in multilateral cooperation frameworks such as ASEAN, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), it said. As Brazil will become BRICS chair in 2025, the ministry also expects the partnership to allow the Southeast Asian nation to take part in some meetings to support the advancement of BRICS cooperation. BRICS is an international bloc established in 2006 as a coalition of large emerging markets, and now comprises 10 countries Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Thailand was among 13 nations named as new partner countries by BRICS on October 24. VNS MPI Minister Nguyen Chi Dung (1) The MPI has made efforts to form a new mindset, and a new strategic vision of Vietnam becoming a high-income country by 2045. That is the mindset of proactive creation, accelerated growth, breakthrough development, deciding the future; as well to converge all advantages and strengths, develop strongly, and realise the aspiration of building an increasingly prosperous and happy country. The MPI has been removing all institutional barriers, turn "bottlenecks of bottlenecks" into "breakthroughs of breakthroughs" for development, unblock and liberate all resources of the economy; clearly demonstrated in the strong decentralisation process, creating proactivity, flexibility, promoting the effectiveness of public resources and management capacity in the Law on Public Investment; shifting from pre-inspection to post-inspection in the Law amending and supplementing four laws on investment, including creating a green channel to shorten procedures for innovation, semiconductor, and high-tech projects in industrial parks by 260 days. (2) The scale and potential of the economy continue to be raised, constantly promoting the achievements after 40 years of economic reforms starting in the 1980s, especially since the beginning of the term, enable the country to accumulate momentum and strength for breakthrough development going forward. The MPI has focused on closely monitoring the situation, forecasting to promptly adjust operations, in accordance with the situation and development requirements. By the end of 2024, the country is likely to complete 15/15 key targets, with a growth rate of about 7 per cent, exceeding the target set forth at 6-6.5 per cent. (3) Implementing three strategic breakthroughs has achieved good outcomes thanks to innovation in thinking, doing, organisation and implementation. The mindset of law-making has changed to both ensure state management and encourage creativity to release all productive forces, and unleash all resources for development. The 500KV line 3 initiative with a total investment of $1 billion done in just six months, is a symbol of the strength of belief, solidarity, becoming a model for implementing large-scale infrastructure projects in the future. Vietnam has shown its position on the map of innovation and creativity, the world's creative startup ecosystem, by promulgating the Semiconductor Industry Strategy and the Semiconductor Industry Human Resource Development Programme, to proactively participate in the global production chain. (4) Many policies and solutions have been implemented promptly, and effectively to support production and business, enterprises, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises, to overcome difficulties and adapt to new global trends. (5) Vietnam continues to be an attractive destination for global FDI capital flows, which are declining and competition is increasingly fierce among countries. FDI attraction in 11 months is estimated at nearly $31.4 billion, and disbursed FDI is estimated at $21.7 billion, up 7.1 per cent on-year. Notably, the government and the world's leading technology corporation Nvidia signed an agreement to establish a research and development (R&D) Centre and an AI Data Centre. This is a historic turning point for Vietnam, to become a top AI R&D hub in Asia. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh awarding MPI's leaders (6) Resources for development have been unblocked and used effectively. The handling of poor-performance enterprises, banks, slow-progressing and ineffective projects has had positive results. The MPI consulted the government and the prime minister to establish steering committees, working groups, and local working groups to remove issues in investment and development, especially key infrastructure projects, and promote disbursement. (7) Innovation and creative startup ecosystems are being promoted and developed in new industries and fields such as digital economy, green growth, circular economy, chips, semiconductors, AI, high-tech agriculture; and new economic models such as international financial centres, regions, free trade zones, are being considered in some localities. (8) Planning of all areas and localities good by implementing regional programmes and projects, and promoting regional linkages, creating new growth drivers and poles for the country. (9) The economy, politics, and society are stable, creating a favourable environment to engage investment and expand production and business. Enterprises and international organisations continue to recognise and appreciate the growth prospects and business environment of the country, commit to investing and long-term commitment to Vietnam. (10) Foreign affairs, economic diplomacy, especially technology diplomacy, have achieved big achievements; promoting economic dialogue with strategic partners, comprehensive strategic partners of Vietnam, large global enterprises, enhancing the country's position and prestige and opening up new opportunities, and advantages for development. "These are important results, creating new momentum and spirit to strive for breakthrough growth in 2025, preparing for the high growth period in 2026-2030 and realising the general secretary's vision of a new era of national development," MPI Minister Dung said "These above results also reflect the big contributions of the Planning - Investment and Statistics sector, which is the achievement of the persistent innovation process of generations of all employees, a combination of courage, intelligence, breakthrough thinking in advisory work, overcoming personal interests for the common good of the country." Scaling up eco-industrial parks to promote circular economy in Vietnam With the support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs , and the Embassy of Switzerland in Vietnam, more eco-industrial parks will be built in Vietnam. Nvidia to build two AI centres in Vietnam The Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) and Nvidia Corporation signed an MoU on the establishment of the Vietnam Research and Development Centre (VRDC) and the AI Data Centre, witnessed by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on December 5. In a move signalling its commitment to sustainable agriculture, Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., Lam Son Sugar Cane Joint Stock Corporation (Lasuco Group), and Sagri Co., Ltd. signed an agreement in mid-December in Thanh Hoa province to implement Vietnams first project generating carbon credits from sugarcane fields. The venture will pilot an environmentally regenerative agricultural model on sugarcane fields cultivated through the collaboration between Lasuco Group and contracted farmers. Advanced satellite analysis technology from Sagri will be applied to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing soil carbon storage, aiming to register carbon credits. The trial phase is set to commence in 2025, covering 500 ha of farmland operated by farmers practising environmentally regenerative agriculture. Satellite analysis technology will monitor soil conditions and sugarcane growth, optimising the type, amount, and timing of fertiliser application to reduce chemical fertiliser usage. This project will contribute to the decarbonisation of agriculture in Vietnam. Photo: Lasuco Group Following the trial phase, if greenhouse gas emissions are sufficiently reduced, the initiative is slated for commercial operation in 2026, with an expanded scale of 8,000 ha. The generated carbon credits will be registered under the 'Improved Agricultural Land Management' methodology (VM0042) of Verra, the world's largest voluntary carbon credit certification organisation. If successful, this will be the first project in Vietnam to be registered under VM0042. Notably, in this collaboration, Idemitsu acts as the investor purchasing the carbon credits and is responsible for working with regulatory agencies in Vietnam. Sagri oversees project management, provides satellite data analysis technology, and handles the carbon credit registration process. Meanwhile, Lasuco implements the project, introduces the initiative to farmers, and collaborates on deploying the regenerative agricultural model. The trial phase is set to commence in 2025, covering 500 hectares of farmland operated by Lasuco's contracted farmers. Photo: Lasuco Group Egashira Hideaki, general director of Idemitsu Vietnam, highlighted that the venture is a pioneering initiative in implementing sustainable regenerative agriculture in Vietnam. It marks the company's first initiative to generate carbon credits by improving agricultural land management. We believe this project will help reduce chemical fertiliser use and encourage the reasonable application of organic fertilisers on sugarcane farms, thereby not only protecting the environment but also promoting local economic development and contributing to Vietnams sustainable agricultural decarbonisation process, said Egashira at the project signing ceremony. As the venture investor, Idemitsu aims to provide environmental solutions, reduce carbon emissions in Vietnam's sustainable agriculture, and support local economic development. The company seeks to establish a roadmap balancing stable energy supply with addressing climate change issues. In the long term, it strives to be a pioneer in energy and carbon-neutral solutions by 2050 within a circular society. Idemitsu Kosan, Lasuco Group, and Sagi have signed an agreement to implement Vietnams first project aimed at generating carbon credits from sugarcane fields. Photo: Lasuco Group Highlighting the schemes ambitious goals, Le Van Phuong, general director of Lasuco Group, emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing sustainable agriculture. Our collaboration with Idemitsu Kosan and Sagri represents a crucial step towards significantly reducing the environmental impact of sugarcane cultivation. Together, we aim to drive meaningful progress in cutting greenhouse gas emissions within Vietnams agricultural sector, he said. With its superior ability to absorb and store CO 2 , sugarcane is a strategic crop in Vietnam's carbon reduction efforts. Our long-term goal is to promote sustainable agriculture, enhance soil carbon storage, and create a roadmap for carbon neutrality in sugarcane farming and sugar production. This will contribute to the net-zero emissions goal by 2050, while improving farmers livelihoods and advancing green, sustainable agriculture for the community, the general director of Lasuco added. Le Duc Giang, Vice Chairman of Thanh Hoa People's Committee, praised the collaborative and mutually beneficial spirit of the participating parties, especially their shared goal of reducing carbon emissions. He also expressed hope for more investors to explore Thanh Hoas development potential. Through this initiative, Lasuco, Idemitsu Kosan, and Sagri are committed to contributing to carbon emission reduction in Vietnams agriculture. Additionally, these companies plan to scale this model to other regions and crops across Vietnam and neighbouring countries, with the goal of advancing sustainable carbon credit initiatives. Developing sustainable agricultural production for crops and soil The Plant Protection Department, Soils and Fertilisers Institute, and Yara Vietnam have signed an MoU for 2024-2026 to strengthen their collaboration on sustainable agriculture. Idemitsu meeting low-carbon needs with Binh Dinh black pellet production plant Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. has inaugurated a commercial black pellet production plant in the south-central province of Binh Dinh, demonstrating its efforts to contribute to carbon neutrality. These ambitions reflect the countrys commitment to sustainable development and the wellbeing of its people. To achieve these goals, Vietnam will need to overcome significant challenges. Waste, air and plastic pollution, including in beautiful Hanoi, remind us of the difficulty in balancing rapid economic growth and environmental protection. The circular economy offers a powerful opportunity to address these challenges. But we must act fast, transitioning rapidly from planning to action. Ramla Khalidi. resident representative in Vietnam United Nations Development Programme The United Nations Development Programme is a longstanding advocate for sustainable development, and we have developed a vision to advance a transformative agenda for a low-carbon and inclusive circular economy. At the heart of this vision is integration. To make the circular economy a reality, we must treat it not as a standalone concept but as a holistic, integrated approach that touches every aspect of the economy and society. There are four key pathways proposed to accelerate Vietnams transition to a circular economy. Firstly, we must integrate eco-design into policies. Evidence-based policies are the key to supporting the transition to a circular economy. Vietnams extended producer responsibility framework offers a strong foundation. However, implementation gaps remain. For example, it is essential to encourage businesses to actively engage in these efforts, rather than merely contributing funds to the government. Global good practices, including the EUs sustainable eco-design product regulations, show how legislation can drive innovation. Vietnam today can lead the innovation agenda by embedding eco-design into its circular economy roadmap, setting measurable targets for recycled content, product lifespan, and energy efficiency. Such measures would not only align Vietnam with global sustainability standards but promote competitiveness. Secondly, we should prioritise key sectors for integrating circular practices. Vietnams growth is closely tied to international trade, and policies like the EUs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism may impact export oriented industries such as aquaculture, coffee production and fruit farming. Yet, many businesses are not yet fully prepared to meet such strict environmental standards. This is where the transformative power of circular economy practices can make a difference, allowing some sectors a competitive edge. Vietnam should prioritise sectors closely linked to trade. Sectors such as agriculture, electronics, plastics, textiles, and construction materials. By prioritising these sectors, Vietnam can align with international standards and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth and long-term resilience. Thirdly, the circular transition should be embedded within current institutional reforms In the words of Party General Secretary To Lam institutions remain the bottleneck of bottlenecks, hampering the countrys development. Profound reforms are critical for fostering innovation and driving change. In the context of the circular economy, streamlining governance frameworks and regulatory processes is key. For instance, simplifying procedures for reusing treated wastewater and addressing the cost disparities between virgin and recycled plastics can unlock opportunities. This requires coordinated efforts across ministries. Effective institutions and streamlined governance structures can enhance cross-sectoral collaboration, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and create an environment that fosters innovation - an essential driver for the circular economy. Last, but not least, transition to a circular economy is a whole of society endeavour. Vietnam must continue to place people and social equity at the center of the circular transition to ensure it is both just and inclusive. It must also continue to create opportunities for multi-sector and multi-stakeholder dialogues that promote whole of society buy-in and ownership. Partnerships like the National Plastic Action Partnership and the Vietnam Circular Economy Hub present opportunities to transform the vision for circular economy transition into action. We are ready to support Vietnam in prioritising reforms that create a supportive ecosystem for transformation. We aim to support the countrys transition to a greener, circular, and low-carbon economy, delivering multiple benefits for sustainable development. Driving a circular transition in Vietnams agriculture The circular economy has gained momentum in the agriculture sector because it can deliver a myriad of benefits. I would like to highlight its impact on climate goals, economic competitiveness, and protecting human and ecosystem health. Competition focuses on fostering circular economy More than just a competition, Plastic Circular Innovation Solutions 2024 held in Hanoi on October 22 brings many superior solutions to the journey of combating plastic waste in Vietnam. What are the highlights in Qualcomms performance in Vietnam in 2024? In 2024, we solidified our role as a strategic enabler of innovation and digital transformation with remarkable progress in Vietnam. A key milestone was the commercial deployment of Viettel's 5G infrastructure using Qualcomms Open RAN technologies with QDUX100, QRU and Edgewise SMO systems completely powered by Qualcomm. This achievement not only established Vietnam as one of the global pioneers in deploying Open RAN-based 5G systems but also opened opportunities for scaling these solutions to international markets such as Latin America, Africa, and India. Nam Thieu, country director of Qualcomm Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Photo: Qualcomm Qualcomm also reinforced our commitment to fostering Vietnams innovation ecosystem. Through initiatives like the Qualcomm Vietnam Innovation Challenge, the company supported local startups with $375,000 in funding and provided engineering expertise to drive advancements in AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and smart city solutions. Additionally, our state-of-the-art advanced labs in Hanoi enabled rapid prototyping and product development, empowering Vietnamese OEMs under the "Make in Vietnam" initiative. On the AI front, Qualcomm continued to lead with over 2.5 billion AI-enabled devices shipped globally, emphasising the shift of AI processing to the edge. This focus on on-device AI offered improved privacy, security, and real-time responsiveness for various applications, including mobile devices, industrial IoT, and automotive technologies. Furthermore, Qualcomms Cloud/Edge AI solutions introduced cost-efficient platforms for enterprises, with strategic partnerships like VinAI driving optimisation and innovation in AI services. Could you share about advances in the companys investment, R&D, and AI innovation? Qualcomm has made substantial progress in investment, R&D, and AI technology innovation in Vietnam as we have long-term vision for empowering digital transformation and fostering local technological capabilities. We made investments in advanced engineering labs in Hanoi provide essential facilities for testing and prototyping, empowering local partners and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) under the Make in Vietnam programme to develop globally competitive products. In R&D, Qualcomm focuses on advancing connectivity technologies such as 5G, NB-IoT, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, providing a solid foundation for diverse tech applications. Through the Make in Vietnam programme, we incentivise OEMs to design, test, and make certification solutions to enhance the manufacturing capabilities of Vietnamese producers. Our reference designsranging from smartphones and AI cameras to AI boxes and Wi-Fi mesh systemsare continually developed and optimised for the Vietnamese market. Additionally, AI research in industry verticals like agriculture, healthcare, smart cities, and industry unlocks new opportunities, driving sustainable tech solutions in Vietnam. Our advanced labs in Hanoi are further accelerating local R&D, providing state-of-the-art facilities for prototyping and testing next-generation technologies. On the AI front, Qualcomm is leading the shift towards on-device and Hybrid AI, distributing workloads across the device, edge, and cloud to improve efficiency, privacy, and cost-effectiveness. By distributing AI workloads across on-device, edge, and cloud architectureswe refer it as Hybrid AIQualcomm optimises resource allocation for large AI models, ensuring seamless, cost-efficient, and scalable AI deployment. For users, this means faster response times, improved data privacy, and personalised experiences without relying heavily on cloud connectivity. For businesses and organisations, it unlocks opportunities to develop advanced AI applications that are not only high-performing but also more accessible, secure, and adaptable to various. At what stage are advancements in AI applications in digital products and services in Vietnam? AI applications in digital products and services are at a transformative stage in Vietnam, and I see immense potential for this technology to drive innovation and growth across industries. With Vietnams strong focus on digital transformation, AI is not just a trend but a cornerstone for enabling smarter, more efficient, and highly personalised solutions. From healthcare and education to smart cities and industrial the Internet of Things (IoT), AI has the capacity to address local challenges while unlocking new opportunities for businesses and communities. At Qualcomm, we see the future of AI as hybridan architecture where AI processing is distributed between the cloud and edge devices to meet the growing demands of GenAI. As its adoption accelerates, the need for scalable, efficient, and cost-effective Compute solutions becomes paramount. A hybrid AI model, which distributes processing between the cloud and edge, addresses these needs by unlocking AI's full potential. This is particularly relevant as GenAI drives advancements across sectors such as smart cities, personalised retail, immersive digital experiences, and advanced the Internet of Things operations. Hybrid AI enables the real-time, privacy-preserving applications required in these areas, such as instant translation and personalised recommendations, while also leveraging the clouds vast capabilities for more complex tasks. With Qualcomm's ongoing partnerships and investments in Vietnams tech ecosystem, including local R&D labs and the development of scalable reference designs, we are creating a foundation for Vietnamese businesses to harness AI at global standards. What are Qualcomms plans for Vietnam in 2025 and beyond to increase local revenue? In 2024, Qualcomm is proud to have collaborated with VNPT Group to introduce the groundbreaking XGS-PON WiFi 7 technology in Vietnam. As the first network operator in the Asia-Pacific region to deploy this advanced platform, VNPT leveraged Qualcomm's cutting-edge 10G Fiber Gateway platforms to launch a new generation of Internet services with ultra-fast speeds, stable connectivity, and extremely low latency. Other key collaborations with enterprises like GHTK and Vietnam Airlines are also unlocking AI-driven efficiencies in areas such as OCR, pose detection, and GenAI applications. In 2025 and beyond, Qualcomm's strategy for Vietnam builds on scaling Cloud/Edge AI solutions to drive local revenue growth. Through partnerships with Viettel IDC and VinAI, we are building an Inference-as-a-Service ecosystem, delivering cost-efficient AI platforms with a 30 per cent TCO advantage over competitors. Looking ahead, these initiatives are expected to drive strong revenue growth in Vietnam over the next three years, while positioning the country as a key player in the AI value chain, driving regional adoption and innovation. We at Qualcomm remain committed to empowering local businesses with cutting-edge AI solutions, enhancing their competitiveness globally. Qualcomm strengthens partnerships to drive AI revolution AI capabilities appear to be a major driver for industries, and is breathing new life into the PC industry. ST Liew, vice president of Qualcomm, talked to VIR's Thuy Huong about the company's strategy to drive the AI revolution forward.Information and Communications, spoke with VIRs Thuy Nguyen about the driving forces shaping this transformation. Viettel launches O-RAN 5G network utilising Qualcomm platform At a conference at Viettel High-Tech headquarters in Hanoi on November 13, Viettel announced the commercial launch of its Open RAN (ORAN) 5G Network, featuring key equipment developed in-house. Qualcomm partners with Vietnam in 5G rollout With Vietnams moves to commercialise 5G this year, more opportunities and expectations are coming. Nam Thieu, country director of Qualcomm Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, discussed the importance of 5G commercialisation with VIRs Bich Thuy. Looking back over 2024, what were the key drivers behind Vietnam's economic growth, and how did they contribute to exceeding the initial GDP targets? Vietnams economy has made remarkable progress this year, with GDP growth at 6.8 per cent in the first nine months, surpassing forecasts and exceeding the growth target of 6-6.5 per cent set by the National Assembly earlier in the year. Following this positive economic data, the government then set a new ambitious goal of achieving GDP growth of over 7 per cent for the whole year. Looking at the factors driving economic growth in 2024, we see many positive signs, such as a 26 per cent increase in exports to the US, 18 per cent growth in exports of electronics and high-tech products, and a strong recovery in the tourism sector. These achievements confirm the resilience of the economy and highlight Vietnams ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing global context. At VinaCapitals 2024 Investor Conference held in Ho Chi Minh City late October, we stated to international investors our belief that Vietnam will continue to pursue the same kinds of long-term growth strategies that have brought significant success over the past 20 years. These strategies include attracting foreign investment, boosting international trade partnerships, and increasing investments in infrastructure and technology to further strengthen the economy. How do you assess the likelihood of achieving the government's new target, and what do you see as the key growth drivers in 2025? This is an ambitious growth target amid global economic and political fluctuations, particularly in relation to trade policies with the US, Vietnams largest export market, as the incoming administration there could bring significant changes. Additionally, the American economy is expected to slow down in 2025. Therefore, Vietnams export growth in 2025 is likely to be lower than in 2024. However, we believe the impact will not be too severe, as Vietnam remains a key trading partner of the US. Currently, we forecast Vietnams GDP will grow by approximately 6.5 per cent in 2025, with growth mainly driven by domestic factors rather than exports, as seen in 2024. While consumer sentiment has not fully rebounded this year, consumption still accounts for more than 60 per cent of the economy, and the growth of production and exports will likely have a positive spillover effect on household income. Furthermore, the real estate market is recovering, which should boost consumer confidence. As a result, domestic consumption will likely offset the slowdown in export growth. Moreover, the government has set a goal to increase infrastructure investments in 2025, which will stimulate growth across multiple sectors of the economy. Over the long term, favourable demographic trends, rapid urbanisation, deeper participation in global supply chains, and the boom in the digital economy will continue to be important drivers of Vietnams sustainable growth. What impact would upgrading Vietnam's stock market have on attracting foreign investment, and what steps are needed to achieve this? Upgrading Vietnams stock market is of great significance to the country's economic development and listed companies. An upgrade would help entice foreign capital and reduce volatility, addressing the issue of retail investors accounting for more than 90 per cent of market transactions. This is a crucial moment, as international capital is withdrawing from China due to trade tensions with the US, and large institutional investors are seeking new emerging markets for investment. The immediate goal for Vietnams stock market is to achieve an upgrade by FTSE Russell, a global provider of benchmarks, analytics, and data solutions, in 2025. However, after achieving this, we need to set our sights on the more important goal of upgrading by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), as its indices are used as benchmarks by many large investment funds. The MSCI upgrade process is more complex than FTSE Russell, with stricter criteria such as limits on foreign ownership, new account registration requirements for international investors, and foreign exchange liberalisation. As a result, the MSCI upgrade process will be more time-consuming and challenging. What key factors are expected to drive Vietnam's stock market growth in 2025? The main drivers for growth in the stock market in 2025 will be economic growth, the strong performance of listed companies, more attractive valuations compared to regional markets, and the outlook for upgrading to emerging market status. At VinaCapital, we forecast that the profits of listed companies will grow by about 20 per cent in 2025, excluding any one-off income. With such growth, the price-to-earnings ratio of the VN Index in 2025 is expected to be around 10.5x. When compared with other emerging markets in the region, such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, listed companies on Vietnams stock market are expected to achieve higher profit growth in 2025 and be valued about 20 per cent cheaper. The profitability of listed companies on Vietnams stock market is also expected to outperform regional markets, with a forecasted return on equity (ROE) of around 16 per cent in 2025, while ROE in regional markets ranges from 10-14 per cent. With such growth potential, operational efficiency, and valuation, once upgraded to an emerging market, Vietnams stock market will be seen by international investors as a more attractive investment opportunity compared to other ASEAN markets. What are the main priorities for market participants to achieve these goals? We believe the most important factors for boosting the development of the stock market are maintaining macroeconomic stability, improving the quality of listed companies, and enhancing market regulation. Listed companies should focus on improving corporate governance, ensuring transparency, and improving operational efficiency to build investor confidence. Meanwhile, regulatory authorities should continue to reform and refine regulations and oversight mechanisms to protect investor interests and ensure sustainable market development. VinaCapital CIO forecasts further stock market growth Andy Ho, chief investment officer of VinaCapital Group and managing director of the VinaCapital Vietnam Opportunity Fund, shared his insights on CNBC in early April on the potential of the Vietnamese stock market following its upgrade to a frontier market. VinaCapital Ventures invests in South Korea's INNOHAS VinaCapital Ventures announced on July 2 that it has led a Series A-3 investment in INNOHAS, a plant-based meat alternative company, to facilitate the South Korean company's expansion into Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Xuan Thien Group has helped accelerate Vietnams green economic growth, and expanded win-win cooperation with international partners, especially those in Europe and Africa. Guided by a philosophy of green, clean, and sustainable business, Xuan Thien Group cultivates a diverse ecosystem across six key industries, namely renewable energy, green construction materials (steel), high-tech agriculture, hospitality, human resources development and training, and transportation and logistics. "For customers, we deliver green products and services of international quality, creating added value for their lives. For partners, we foster a spirit of collaboration for mutual growth, building a better future together. For employees, we cultivate a professional, efficient, and compassionate working environment. We also align corporate interests with societal and community benefits," Xuan Thien Groups chairman Nguyen Xuan Thien said. Renewable energy has laid the foundation for the Xuan Thien brand, with over 20 hydroelectric, solar farm, and wind power projects now in operation. Renewable energy has laid the foundation for the Xuan Thien brand, with over 20 hydroelectric, solar farm, and wind power projects now in operation, achieving high efficiency with a total capacity of 1,800 MW. Xuan Thien Group owns a series of key national hydroelectric clusters across Vietnam, utilising modern and sustainable technology, with a total capacity of 500 MW. It is the first private entity in Vietnam to invest in and independently operates the 500-KV Xuan Thien Ea Sup Substation, with a capacity of 2,400 MVA. Regarding renewable energy, Xuan Thien Group has completed the construction of the Xuan Thien Solar Farm Cluster in Ninh Thuan province with a capacity of 305 MW, and the Xuan Thien-Ea Sup Solar Farm Cluster in Dak Lak province with a capacity of 831 MW. It has been conducting surveys and investing in onshore and offshore wind power in other provinces such as Nam Dinh and Thai Binh, with an estimated total capacity of several gigawatts. As for green construction materials, Xuan Thien is a pioneering firm in the world and the first in Vietnam to invest in the development of green steel technology. Specifically, it operates the countrys first green steel complex in Nam Dinh rovince, with an annual capacity of 9.5 million tonnes; owns and co-owns cement factories equipped with cutting-edge technology from Denmark; and plans to establish cement plants in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Angola and beyond. Nguyen Xuan Thien, chairman of Xuan Thien Group, holds a young eucalyptus cloned through vegetative propagation to plant forests for green steel production materials that meet zero-carbon standards. "I have frequently visited a eucalyptus forest in Angola planted as raw material for green steel production that meets zero-carbon standards. The total area of land for planting eucalyptus forests as charcoal raw material for green steel reduction is 500,000 hectares, to be implemented from 2024 to 2030," said Thien. Xuan Thiens integrated agricultural ecosystem embraces the world's latest innovations with cutting-edge methods. Xuan Thien Thanh Hoa high-tech production and livestock complex produces 1 million pigs for meat, 500,000 tons of animal feed, and 50,000 tonnes of fruit juice annually. Meanwhile, Xuan Thien Cu Mgar high-tech agricultural undertaking cultivates high-yield plant varieties and delivers premium finished products. For over 20 years, Xuan Thien Group has maintained a sustainable vision that extends beyond business goals, embracing a strong commitment to social responsibility. Each year, it dedicates hundreds of billions of VND to social welfare initiatives, including supporting funds for the underprivileged, gratitude and education funds, and talent promotion. It also contributes to building roads, schools, and other essential infrastructure across Vietnam, while actively helping communities recover from natural disasters and pandemics such as COVID-19. "Guided by a philosophy of green, clean, and sustainable development, we embrace pioneering technology to create meaningful value for society," added Thien. Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2024 honour industry leaders and leading corporations in Vietnam The Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2024 honoured Vietnams inspiring business moguls and visionaries of inclusive entrepreneurship on October 3 at the GEM Centre in Ho Chi Minh City. NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam awarded for 'Corporate Excellence' at Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2024 NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam (NAB Vietnam) has been honoured with the prestigious Corporate Excellence award at the gala ceremony of Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2024 taking place on October 3 in Ho Chi Minh City. You are here: China Chinese leaders attended a 2025 New Year gala featuring traditional operas Monday evening in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping, other Party and state leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng watched the show at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, alongside people from all walks of life in Beijing. Before the performances started, Xi and other leaders shook hands with and greeted representatives of artists from the opera circle who were in the audience. The show featured excerpts of classic operas that illustrate heroism and a love for China, as well as works highlighting contemporary ethos and vibrant ethnic cultures. The excerpts were selected from various genres of opera, including Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera, both listed as intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a New Year message through China Media Group and the internet Tuesday evening in Beijing to ring in 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on the nation to remain confident in the coming year, saying the world's second-largest economy can overcome challenges and pressure through hard work. Xi made the remarks in his New Year message for 2025 delivered through China Media Group and the internet. Set to fully complete its 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, China will implement more proactive and effective policies, prioritize high-quality development, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development, Xi said. He said the Chinese economy "now faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones." "But we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident," Xi said. The Chinese president also vowed to continue the country's reform drive, mentioning a Party plenum held in July that adopted a massive reform master plan. The document outlined key reform tasks for the next five years and proposed over 300 major reform initiatives. "We will march forward in great strides to advance reform and opening up as the trend of our times. We will surely embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization in the course of reform and opening up," he said. Upward trajectory Reviewing China's footprint in 2024, Xi said the economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory, with the national GDP expected to pass the mark of 130 trillion yuan (about $18.08 trillion) and the country's grain output surpassing 700 million tonnes. He noted that China has fostered new quality productive forces, and new business sectors, forms and models have kept emerging. For the first time, China has produced more than 10 million new energy vehicles in a year, and breakthroughs have been made in fields including integrated circuit, artificial intelligence and quantum communications. Xi also highlighted government measures introduced to improve people's livelihoods, including raising the basic pension, lowering mortgage rates, and expanding a scheme for cross-province direct settlement of medical bills that has made it easier for people to seek medical treatment across the country. For the coming year, Xi said, "We should work together to steadily improve social undertakings and governance, build a harmonious and inclusive atmosphere, and settle real issues, big or small, for our people. We must bring more smiles to our people and greater warmth to their hearts." Xi also said that no one can ever stop China's reunification, a trend of the times. "We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us," he said. China will unswervingly implement the policy of "one country, two systems" to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Macao, he said. Maintaining world peace, stability In a world of both transformation and turbulence, China, as a responsible major country, is actively promoting global governance reform and deepening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, Xi said. Highlighting China's advances in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and success in hosting the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, as well as its participation in bilateral and multilateral forums, Xi said the country has "contributed greatly to the maintenance of world peace and stability." "China will work with all countries to promote friendship and cooperation, enhance mutual learning among different cultures, and build a community with a shared future for mankind. We must jointly create a better future for the world," he said. Craft and connect getaways are a sweet escape for women, offering stunning views, cozy crafting time, and friendships to cherish. According to Statistas 2024 Global Consumer Insights Survey, 23 percent of Americans 50-64 enjoy crafting or DIY hobbies, with many adults placing travel and socializing among their top 10 leisure lists. Craft retreats combine creativity and connection, allowing women 50-plus to sew-cialize while soaking up peaceful scenery. Across the U.S., dozens of locations now host themed retreats where you can learn or refine skills such as quilting, knitting, or needle felting. Ready to craft your perfect getaway? Heres where to start. Members only Travel to Texas Hill Country for Dexter Oaks Retreats four-day quilting retreats. Courtesy Dexter Oaks Quilting: Dexter Oaks Retreat Dexter Oaks Retreat in Texas Hill Country hosts four-day, three-night crafting retreats for $185 per person, which includes shared hotel-like accommodations. Catered meals are optional, and visits with the resident cows kept strictly as pets are complimentary. Guests enjoy a welcoming environment and access to a custom-designed crafting space featuring design walls, individual workstations with task lighting, and comfortable seating. The 22-acre ranch offers open format crafting retreats, meaning no formal classes or workshops are held. This allows uninterrupted time for projects, with many guests completing extensive work, like a quilt, within a few days. Karen Keany, 64, a lifelong seamstress from Lago Vista, Texas, who took up quilting eight years ago, praises the camaraderie. Im the young one of the group. We go up from 64 to 80, she says. We learn so much from each other because were all at different levels. Solo crafters and groups alike are welcome. Retreats include welcome snacks and access to a fully stocked kitchen. About 60 percent of guests opt to prepare their own meals, while others use the retreats partner catering services. Owner Debbie Glum highlights the appeal of the ranchs cows. The ladies love the cows. Theyre a big draw, says Glum. They line up at the fence every time they see a car come because they know theyre going to get treats. For details and reservations: https://www.dexteroaksretreat.com/ Fiber arts specialists can take spinning, knitting, weaving, and needle-felting classes at Nome Schoolhouse in North Dakota. Courtesy Teresa Perleberg Needle felting & fiber arts: Nome Schoolhouse In rural Nome, North Dakota population 51 a 108-year-old schoolhouse has been transformed into Nome Schoolhouse retreat, a unique destination for fiber arts enthusiasts. Co-owners Chris Armbrust and fiber artist Teresa Perleberg invite guests to experience the full farm-to-needle journey, from wool harvesting to hands-on fiber arts workshops. Participants enjoy themed retreats featuring classes in spinning, knitting, weaving, needle-felting, and other creative skills, led by Perleberg and guest instructors. I have a flock of sheep, says Perleberg. Ill take them out to my farm and show them where the wool comes from. And then they tour the fiber mill and then they get to make things with the wool, she says about her felting retreats. Flash China deeply mourns the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter who had long contributed to the development of China-U.S. relations, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday. Mao described Carter as a promoter and decision-maker in the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. China highly commends his significant contributions to the development of China-U.S. relations and the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries over the years, Mao said at a press briefing. According to the Carter Center, Jimmy Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, died on Sunday at the age of 100. During Carter's presidency, in December 1978, China and the United States issued the Joint Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the People's Republic of China and the United States of America. On Jan. 1, 1979, the two countries officially established diplomatic relations. As we conclude another year, it is essential to reflect on the key developments, challenges, and achievements that have shaped different sectors throughout the past 12 months. The year 2024 has been marked by dynamic shifts, rapid innovation, and the continued adaptation to both external factors and emerging trends. Adgullys annual feature REWIND revisits different sectors and identifies the key developments as well gauges the long-term impacts of those developments. We speak to a cross-section of industry leaders to bring a 360-degree view of the industry landscape, the growth trends, financial performance, disruptions, innovations, challenges and more. In this Rewind 2024 article, Valerie Pinto, CEO, Weber Shandwick India, shares insights on how 2024 has unfolded for the Indian economy and the PR industry, along with the trends that shaped the industry this year. She also discusses how Weber Shandwick India performed during 2024. Overview of the PR industry and Indian economy in 2024 This year has been a year of change and resilience. Despite global economic challenges, India showed incredible strength and grew in the IT, manufacturing, construction, and agriculture sectors, with increased domestic consumption and policy reforms driving growth. For the PR industry, this year reminded us how crucial our role is in shaping trust and delivering authentic stories. Weve seen clients lean on us not just for visibility but for guidance in navigating a world thats constantly evolving. It highlighted the power of communications to not only shape narratives but also drive real impact, purpose, and reputation. Key trends and developments Weve seen PR evolve with a clear focus on innovation and relevance. Earned media has emerged stronger than ever, as audiences sought more genuine and relatable content. AI has been a game-changer for us whether it is forecasting trends, media monitoring, or creating targeted campaigns, it has made our work sharper and more impactful. Data-driven storytelling also became the norm, giving us the ability to back creativity with clear outcomes. What truly stood out was the unwavering focus on purpose be it sustainability or inclusion. Brands recognized that it is no longer enough to make statements; they had to embody their values through genuine actions and meaningful impact. Weber Shandwick Indias performance in 2024 2024 has truly been a defining year for Weber Shandwick India. We proudly secured major business partnerships with renowned global brands, reinforcing our position as industry leaders. Our campaigns left a lasting impact Kaise Ka Cancer for Tata Trusts earned global recognition among SABREs Top 40 campaigns, and it, along with #PVRHeardYou for PVR Inox, dominated PRovoke Medias Global Creative Index. We were honoured as Campaign Asias Agency of the Year and secured over 50 awards at prestigious global, regional, and national platforms, reflecting our commitment to delivering purposeful and innovative work. Our expansion into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities deepened our connection with local audiences, while internally, we prioritized equipping our teams for the future with upskilling initiatives in AI, digital strategies, and leadership. This year was about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and making every effort count. Its been a year that were incredibly proud of! Also Read: Evolving consumer dynamics propelled Indias gaming sector in 2024: Himank Tripathi Redmatter, a premier full-funnel marketing agency announced the addition of three esteemed brands - Hansaplast, South India Jewellery, and Snackster by Sneha Group - to its growing portfolio of clients. This latest milestone highlights the agency's expanding presence and success in the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh regions. With an impressive team from various parts of the world & country in the advertising world, the agency has one core belief: while others deliver advertisements, Redmatter delivers business growth. The agency also believes that good marketing is all about risk mitigation through incessant testing. Noticing a gap when it comes to professional marketing guidance for entrepreneurs in the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh market and with an acute sensibility for the consumer insights for the region, the agency has now set a goal for 2035: to grow 100 Indian brands to 1,000 crores. Lofty as it is, their target is not unachievable given the teams existing clients, which include some of the biggest industry names like Jio Star Maa, Zee 5, The Class of One, My Home Group, Nanjappa Health, among others. 2024 has also seen a spate of new brand launches by Redmatter. Snackster taking on giants like Godrej Yummiez and ITC MasterChef. Extending 100 year old beverage brand Artos to multiple variants, launching a new millet beverage brand Gutsy, and ended the year with the launch of a rice brand Hily by Shekar Foods. Redmatters work for Foundation for Democratic Reform won them three national level awards, making them the only agency in Hyderabad to win national level awards in 2024. Flash Commercial aviation has suffered its deadliest year since 2018 after the Jeju Air Co. disaster in South Korea and last week's downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane, reported Bloomberg News on Monday. Onboard passenger plane fatalities this year jumped to 318 with the two recent crashes, data compiled by Cirium showed. That's by far the highest death toll since more than 500 people died in 2018, a year marked by the first of two Boeing Co. 737 Max crashes. "This year started and ended with tragedies in Japan and South Korea during attempted landings, among the most dangerous phases of flight," noted the report. "Fatal aviation accidents remain very rare, and one major incident can suddenly turn a statistically safe year into one of the worst." "The recent spike falls into the margins of unpredictability," Darren Straker, a former head of air accident investigation units in the United Arab Emirates and China's Hong Kong, was quoted as saying. He suggested airline crews could be better trained to respond to so-called outlier events. Zee Media has appointed Surbhi Nagpal as National Sales Head for its news channels, Wion and Zee Business. Based in Noida, Nagpal will be responsible for driving revenue generation, optimizing sales operations, and enhancing the profitability of both channels. With over 20 years of experience in both linear and digital sales across prominent media organizations, Nagpal brings a wealth of expertise to Zee Media. Her career journey includes key roles at NDTV India, Outbrain, Discovery Communications India, and Disney+ Hotstar, where she demonstrated a strong track record of success in driving revenue growth and building strategic partnerships. Prior to her media career, Nagpal began her professional journey at Taj Hotels in Delhi, where she quickly rose to the position of Deputy Manager Sales within four years. She then gained valuable experience at American Express before venturing into the television industry with NDTV India. Nagpal's impressive resume includes senior roles at NDTV Lifestyle, where she served as Vice President Sales, and Star India, where she led the National Head of International Business. She also held the position of National Vertical Head for FMCG (F&B) at Disney+ Hotstar before joining Discovery Communications as Director Sales. Nagpal's deep understanding of the media landscape, coupled with her ability to navigate the evolving market dynamics, makes her a valuable asset to Zee Media. Her leadership will be instrumental in driving the growth and success of Wion and Zee Business in the competitive media market. Also Read: Trivoli Digital wins Surbhi Construction mandate, elevates brand experiences Authored by Rosanlal Behera, Co-founder, Mashrise Private Limited The fast-changing landscape of the digital world today, marked by rapid transformation triggered by technology innovations, changing customer expectations, and a converging global marketplace, puts all organizations on the brink of adaptation. As they head toward the subsequent years to stay endowed competitively, the most crucial factor, of course, is the increasingly crowded digital space. Emerged trends would include the rise of artificial intelligence and immersive experiences, sustainability, and data privacy, which are giving the future of digital marketing a very lively and transformative outline. This article discusses trends that will most probably define another wave of digital marketing innovation and ways in which businesses could leverage their new-found innovations to succeed for years. AI and marketing automation AI is taking its strides into the realm of digital marketing without completely realizing its potential yet. By this period in 2025, all other marketing experts should have or will be using artificial intelligence as part of some form of automation, personalization, and predictive analytics. Presently, this takes shape in artificial intelligence handling customer segmentation, content generation, and even being as interactive as a chatbot. Even as AI evolves, we expect to enjoy the merits of ever-more evolved automated solutions that scale hyper-personalized experiences. At the same time, the use of programmatic platforms and demand-side platforms (DSPs) will offer more effective ad targeting through more detailed audience segmentation. This combination of developments in AI and automation will allow brands to deliver more highly relevant and personalized messaging to foster stronger connections with customers and more effective campaigns. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences The use of AR and VR marketing will have a bigger scope than ever in the future. These immersive technologies provide great opportunities for brands to engage customers with experiences that are interactive and richer than any other media format. In the retail sector, AR is already being applied so that customers can view what products would look like in their own homes or on their bodies. For instance, furniture stores are exploiting AR to allow customers to virtually put furniture in their living rooms before buying it. By 2025, augmented and virtual reality experiences will be further integrated into the consumer journey. One should expect to see "try-ons" in the virtual world, product demonstrations, and interactive applications that will lead to better engagement and conversion rates. Niche media inventories are going to be another crucial driver of these immersive experiences for focusing brands and targeting smaller groups for deeper engagement, leading to higher returns on investment. Sustainability and Ethical Marketing As the focus on sustainability grows, consumers increasingly are paying attention to the values or ethics of the brands they purchase. By 2025, sustainability, which would relate to an ethical approach in marketing, is expected to be one of the key pillars in the digital marketing strategy of most brands. It is beyond greenwashing and is a committed approach to environmental and social responsibility. The driving force behind influencing consumer decision processes is transparency in the sourcing, creation, and chain of supply. Using a strong interactive digital campaign either via social media or website, a brand can position itself as an attractive proposition to consumers who care about the environment. Privacy and Data Protection With emphasis on the increasing data privacy and security concerns, particularly with the advent of regulations such as GDPR in Europe and CCPA in California, marketers are going to have to be more open and accountable about the way they obtain and utilize customer data. By 2025, it is expected that more stringent global privacy laws will be the norm, and more will want more control over their data. This would compel organizations to embrace privacy as a key component of their digital marketing strategies and would bind data protection to consumer trust. Since the purpose of marketing is to establish trust with the consumers, privacy-first strategies such as first-party data usage are going to be very significant for companies interested in long-lasting relationships with their consumers. Connected TV (CTV) and Over-the-Top (OTT) Advertising In the current market scenario, Connected TV (CTV) or over-the-top (OTT) services are changing the ad business and giving brands a new way to connect with consumers. With the shift from traditional television to streaming platforms, advertisers can now easily enjoy opportunities for targeted advertising in such spaces. It also enables a sharper, more precise, and data-driven advertising strategy, which is critical for improving return on investments (ROI) and optimizing commercial digital marketing campaigns. Impact Advertising: Interactive Formats With digital marketing growing day by day, impact advertisements such as interstitial and roadblock ads will become the most important tools in catching the consumer's attention. This type of ad format is usually immersive and engaging, and brand marketers can use it to interrupt the consumer - that is what makes them a commanding attention-getter, hence valuable tools within a digital marketing campaign. These types of ads ensure the message is not only visually seen but also engaged because they force a whole screen takeover or apply certain interactive elements. They are effective in terms of generating high engagement rates that may significantly enhance the resultant ROI by focusing on more audience impact and recall. The future of digital marketing is dynamic, fast-paced, and full of opportunities. With changing times, marketers would certainly have to adopt some tools and strategies to stay competitive. From AI-powered automation and conversational marketing to the rise of AR/VR experiences and the growing emphasis on sustainability, businesses that can adapt to these trends will be well-positioned to succeed in 2025 and beyond. Keeping ahead of the curve and continually changing digital marketing strategies will retain meaningful relationships for brands and their consumers within a more digitalized world. DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and Adgully.com does not necessarily subscribe to it. Also Read: AI & the Future of Education: Transforming Teaching and Learning China and Russia Ties Advancing to Higher Levels, Says President Xi in His New Year Message to Putin 2 China and Russia are moving forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation and their relations have been advancing towards higher levels, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Tuesday in his New Year message to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Xi and Putin exchanged New Year greetings highlighting their burgeoning strategic ties in recent years. In the face of the accelerated transformation unseen in a century and a volatile international landscape, China and Russia always move forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party, Xi said in the message. Putin in his message said both countries have advanced the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era to new heights. The mutually beneficial cooperation between Chinas and Russias economy, trade, energy, transportation, science, and technology is progressing in an orderly manner, the Russian president according to Chinas state-run Xinhua news agency. Both leaders exchanged greetings ahead of the January 20 swearing-in of President-elect Donald Trump who threatened to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese exports to the US besides hardening American policy towards China and hinted at a strategic shift of warming up to Putin to end the Ukraine war. Since taking power in 2012, Xi has elevated Chinas ties with Russia to a higher level as part of Beijings efforts to build strategic alliances to ward off increasing adversity towards China in the US and EU countries. China followed a guarded policy as it refused to condemn Moscow over Russias war in Ukraine even while maintaining ties with Kyiv. In his message to Putin, Xi recalled their meetings in the last three years in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan apart from their periodic communication through phone calls, exchanges of letters, and other means to reach broad consensus on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues of common concern. The political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have been advancing toward higher levels under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, Xi said. Putin in his message said looking ahead to 2025, he stands ready to maintain close communication with Xi to jointly promote the development of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, and further strengthen coordination and cooperation on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, the SCO and the G20. While folks in New Orleans claim they started the tradition of Mardi Gras in the U.S., historians say French colonists began celebrating the festival not long after first spotting Mobile Bay in 1699. Two years later, a hearty group of French soldiers and Canadian hunters built a fort on the bluff and formed a colony in 1701, 27 miles away from the site of the current city, according to Jay Higginbotham in his seminal 1977 book Old Mobile. The book mentions brief Mardi Gras celebrations in February 1701 and 1702. First Mardi Gras at Old Mobile The first official celebration, a feast, was held on the traditional date in February in 1703. The merrymaking, of course, was nowhere near as elaborate as that which they had enjoyed in France. Dancing would not become part of the celebration until 1705, Higginbotham wrote. But at one point in its long history, Mobiles Mardi Gras was held on New Years Eve and thats when parades and mystic societies began. The site of Old Mobile was then part of French Louisiana and, later, the Louisiana Territory. Mobile was moved to its current site in 1711. It would come under British rule and then Spanish. In 1817, the Alabama Territory was formed and 1819 when Alabama became a state. The original site of Mobile, Ala., was 27 miles from its current location. This marker at the site is located on private property and permission is required to visit.Kelly Kazek The site of the colony is now located on private property owned by a manufacturing company but there is a historic marker noting that first colony. Dr. Greg Waselkov at the University of South Alabama has led several archaeological digs at the area. Relics can be found on display at the universitys museum. New Years Eve, 1830 Mobiles place in the history of Mardi Gras, also called Carnival, would be solidified when a cotton broker named Michael Krafft unwittingly created the first mystic society and led the first Mardi Gras parade in this country. Such societies, now known as krewes, became popular in celebrations in Mobile and New Orleans. Mardi Gras begins on Jan. 6 and ends on Fat Tuesday, which stemmed from a French Catholic tradition and is based on the Easter season. But Carnival was also a popular way to celebrate the coming of a new year. It was on New Years Eve 1830 when Michael Krafft started the tradition of parading. Krafft, born in Bristol, Penn., in 1807, moved to Mobile to sell cotton. On Dec. 31, Krafft and friends Thomas Niles, Robert Roberts, Henry Dagget, Daniel Geary, Nathanial Ledyar, Richard Currie and Amual Kipp celebrated at Antoine La Tourrettes restaurant, located in Southern Hotel in Mobile. As morning broke on the first day of 1831, the rowdy group staggered over the cobble-stoned streets of the port city of about 3,000 people. According to legend, writes Ann Pond in her book Cowbellion, the men passed a hardware store and spotted articles suspended outside the store to advertise its wares, as was tradition at the time. Versions vary as to whether Krafft deliberately or accidentally dislodged a rake, a hoe and cowbells from the display but they became part of the drunken parade and the men called themselves the Cowbellion de Rakin Society. People often tie Mardi Gras beads around the grave of Michael Krafft in Mobile's Magnolia Cemetery. Krafft is credited with starting mystic societies and parades for the festival.Joey Brackner | Alabama Department of Archives and History Pond wrote: Mysticism was new to the traditional street festivity and revelry was new to the practices of the Masons. But their combination was the reason the Cowbellions evolved into something much more significant than any of the other forms of holiday revelry known at the time. Krafft later moved to New Orleans and died in 1839. He is buried in Mobiles historic Magnolia Cemetery. The headstone is often decorated with Mardi Gras beads. A handful of new laws passed by the Alabama Legislature go into effect with the start of the new year, including one intended to make reliable and affordable child care more available to working parents. HB358 by House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville, created two new tax credits and a grant program, all of which start on Jan. 1. Daniels bill, which had 41 co-sponsors from both parties, was one of several bills in a Working for Alabama package aimed at increasing Alabamas workforce participation rate, which ranks near the bottom among states. The lack of child care has made it harder for some people, especially single mothers, to join or return to the workforce, legislators and advocates said. In 2022, almost 85,000 Alabama families needed access to child care but had no affordable, quality options in their communities, according to the Womens Foundation of Alabama. When we address the barriers that women and families face, we are making Alabama better, Alabama stronger, Melanie Bridgeforth, CEO of the Womens Foundation of Alabama, said when Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill in May. Pro business is being pro family. The three main components of the new law: Employer tax credits Companies can receive tax credits for offering child care facilities for their employees or for covering the cost of that care. The credits can be up to $600,000 per year for a company to offset eligible expenses. Eligible expenses are for construction, renovation, or expansion of a child care facility, as well as the purchase of equipment, maintenance, and operation. Eligible expenses also include payments to childcare facilities for children of employees. Companies with fewer than 25 employees can receive credits equal to 100% of their eligible expenses. Larger companies can receive up to 75%. The credits will have a statewide, aggregate cap of $15 million in 2025, $17.5 million in 2026, and $20 million in 2027. Facility tax credits Child care facilities can receive a tax credit of up to $25,000 per year. The amount of the credits will be based on the number of children at a center who are enrolled in the federal child care subsidy program administered by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. A facilitys tax credit amount is also tied its quality of care rating by DHR, which assigns ratings of one star through five stars. The aggregate statewide cap for facility tax credits will be $5 million. Grants DHR will award grants to nonprofit child care providers for construction, expansion, repairs, or operations of facilities that increase quality or capacity. The maximum annual grant per provider is $50,000, with an aggregate annual cap of $5 million statewide. The tax credits and grants will be available for three years, through 2027. The Legislature will decide whether to extend the law after reports from the Department of Revenue and the Department of Labor that will show the levels of participation in the tax credits and grants and the impact on the workforce participation rate. The 2024 legislative session ended in May and saw the Republican majority pass many of their top priorities, including a bill to allow parents to use taxpayer funds for private school. The CHOOSE Act creates education savings accounts, or ESAs, of up to $7,000 a year per child for private school or $2,000 for home school. The first ESAs will be available for the 2025-26 school year and will be limited to specific groups of students. All students in the state will be eligible at the start of the 2027-28 school year. Most bills passed during the 2024 legislative session have already gone into effect before the start of the new year. Many took effect within three months of being signed or on Oct. 1. Here are the bills signed into law that are taking effect on Jan. 1: Involuntary commitment for addiction: SB240 by Sen. Will Barfoot, R-Montgomery, will authorize probate judges to involuntarily commit to care an individual who suffers from a drug addiction that is secondary to a primary diagnosis of mental illness. The new law also creates a process for a probate judge to ask a court to suspend a jail sentence for a misdemeanor or municipal ordinance violation to allow the offender to receive care under an involuntary commitment order. Mandatory training for mayors, councils: SB291 by Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, will require mayors and city council members to receive at least 10 hours of training on the powers and duties of municipal officials, including the use of public funds, ethics, public records, bidding on public works projects, budgeting, the open meetings law, and other topics. First responder training on disabilities: HB126 by Rep. Leigh Hulsey, R-Helena, will require firefighters and emergency medical responders to receive training on interacting with people with sensory needs or invisible disabilities, such as individuals with hearing or vision loss, autism, or other conditions than are not readily apparent. Exempting capital gains from income taxes: SB297 by Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, will exempt capital gains made from the exchange of precious metal bullion from the state income tax. Precious metal bullion includes coins, bars or rounds containing primarily refined gold, silver, platinum, or palladium that is marked and valued primarily by its weight, purity, and content. Expanding military pay income tax exemptions: SB209 by Sen. Andrew Jones, R-Centre, expands a state income tax exemption for military pay in combat zones to apply to members of the National Guard and Reserve who are activated by the governor or president in response to emergencies. Liability protection for cattle owners: SB164 by Sen. Randy Price, R-Opelika, protects cattle owners from liability for injury, loss, damage, or death resulting from the inherent risk of bovine activity, under certain circumstances. The protection does not apply in cases of willful and wanton disregard for safety, or if the owner does not post a warning sign on the fence or enclosure holding the cattle. Bovine activity also covers bison, buffalo, and oxen. The 2025 legislative session starts Feb. 4. The home of Alabamas hottest vacation destination will unveil its shiniest new attraction in 2025, directly across from its popular public beach. But ahead of the opening of a $140 million Embassy Suites resort hotel in the summer 2025, Gulf Shores needs to do one a few more things, including sprucing up West First Avenue, which runs for about two blocks north of the project site. Its all about adding on-street parking, complete streets with sidewalks and landscaping and improving that walking district, said Grant Brown, director of recreation and cultural affairs for the City of Gulf Shores. The Gulf Shores City Council on Dec. 9 unanimously approved a $69,500 contract with Volkert Inc. to develop an engineering and bid procurement plan for the construction of the citys third phase of its Beach Walking District. The first two phases of the walking district included adding sidewalks, landscaping and parking to portions of East Second Avenue, First Avenue and down to West Beach Boulevard. Future phases include additional sidewalks and on-street parking in that general vicinity. The third phase, which is estimated to cost around $2 million to build, focuses solely on improvements adjacent to the Embassy Suites. Volkert has until early February to complete its work, and then the council will consider bidding out the streetscape project for construction. An image of the Beach Walking District master plan as provided by the City of Gulf Shores and prepared by Volkert Inc.City of Gulf Shores, prepared by Volkert Inc The reason this is coming forward now is ideally wed like this to open up when the Embassy Suites opens up, said Clint Colvin, the citys capital program director. The project is part of Gulf Shores Vision 2025 plan, approved back in 2014, that emphasized walkability and improvements within the popular public beach area. The public beach has undergone a transformation in recent years and is considered an anchor within Alabamas hottest tourism attraction its sugar-white sand beaches. According to the states tourism office, close to 8.4 million visitors came to Baldwin County in 2023, which is far higher than any other county in the state. The most visible part of the public beachfront which is directly across Beach Boulevard from the future Embassy Suites received a $15 million improvement that was unveiled nearly seven years ago in early 2018. Renovated public beach in Gulf Shores. Baldwin County photos 2021. (Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com).Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com The hotel is expected to bring more people to the beach district, prompting the need for more on-street parking and sidewalks, officials say. Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft has called the project transformative, saying its what city officials envisioned for the beach area when Vision 2025 was adopted. The hotel, when completed, will feature 257 all-suite beachfront guest rooms; a lobby bar and restaurant; a rooftop amenity terrace inclusive of a bar and grille, a pool deck and an outdoor entertainment venue; a 13,620-square-foot enclosed meeting space, including a 7,800-square-foot ballroom; a three-story parking garage; and 7,618 square feet of leasable retail space that includes a Starbucks. A computer rendering of Embassy Suites Gulf Shores, set to open summer 2025.(Courtesy image Robins & Morton) A topping out ceremony the placement of the final steel beam, signifying the structural completion of the project occurred in late October. The project has been spearheaded by a team that includes Atlanta-based Peachtree Hotel Group, Dallas-based Woodbine Development and DD Partners of Birmingham, which includes developer Ron Durham. The architect of record is PFVS of Atlanta, and the contractor is Robins & Morton of Birmingham. The partnership closed on the land purchase of the Embassy Suites project in November 2022, spending $6 million to purchase the two acres from the city. The city is ponying up incentives for the development, including rebates for a portion of new sales, lodging, and ad valorem taxes generated within the property. The rebates are to be capped at $6.5 million. A suspect has been charged with attempted murder in a Sunday shooting in east Jefferson County that wounded two people, one of them critically. DeAquinez Bell, 25, of Birmingham, is charged with attempted murder, Jefferson County sheriffs officials announced Tuesday. Bell was booked into the Jefferson County Jail at 12:44 p.m. Monday. His bond is set at $60,000. Sheriffs deputies were dispatched at 4:45 p.m. to Summit Ridge Apartments on Haversham Drive to a report of a person shot. When deputies and Center Point Fire and Rescue medics arrived, they found a 29-year-old woman with a gunshot wound. She was reportedly shot in the pelvis. The woman was taken by ambulance to UAB Hospital in Birmingham. Sheriffs spokesman Henry Irby said her injuries did not appear to be life-threatening. Deputies learned an 18-year-old male with a gunshot wound also had been taken by private vehicle to UAB Hospital. Authorities initially said his injuries did not appear to be life-threatening, but Irby said Tuesday that he is in critical condition. Deputies initially issued an emergency call for all available assistance but the reason for the alert was not immediately clear. Additional details surrounding the shooting have not been released. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call sheriffs investigators at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. The body of a missing Alabama toddler was put into a bag and placed in an outdoor storage shed before being moved to a still-unknown location, according to court documents made public Tuesday. Kahleb Collins was discovered to be missing after a crash killed his father and sister and critically injured his mother, who is now jailed in connection to his and his sisters deaths. Authorities have not said how the 1-year-old died, and his remains have not yet been found. His mother, Wendy Pam Bailey, 22, is charged with abuse of corpse, a Class C felony, aggravated child abuse, a Class A Felony, first-degree domestic violence, a Class A felony, and criminally negligent homicide, a Class A misdemeanor, 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin announced Monday. The criminally negligent homicide charge is for the death of 2-year-old Ryleigh Collins. The girl was killed in the horrific Dec. 8 crash that also killed 40-year-old Steven Bradley Brad Collins, who was Baileys husband and the father of Ryleigh and Kahleb. The investigation showed Ryleigh was unrestrained when the fatal crash happened that Sunday morning. Kahleb Rowan Collins, 1, and sister, 2-year-old Ryleigh Collins.Facebook The rest of the charges are linked to the presumed death of Kahleb. Charging documents against Bailey said, after Kahleb died, his body was placed into a bag and stored in an outside storage building for a brief period prior to final disposal at an unknown location. On the aggravated child abuse and domestic violence charges, the criminal complaint states that some time in July, Bailey blatantly, and on more than two occasions, failed to report or intervene during known physical abuse. In one instance, records state, Bailey received a message from Collins saying that he was going to kill Kahleb. That message was followed by photographs of Kahleb hanging from a loft with a rope with blood present on his body, and of him lying bruised and face up on the floor. The photos, according to court documents were followed by another message from Collins that read, He want (sic) move. Im so sorry. Collins then sent another message that read, He moving. Bailey acknowledged the photos and replied, He just looks wore out and tire (sic) and hurt hopefully thats all. Wendy Bailey failed to intervene or notify law enforcement after she was made aware of the extreme circumstances and assault that had occurred to Kahleb Collins, the documents state. Steven Bradly Collins, left, and Ryleight Collins, right were killed in a Dec. 8, 2024, traffic crash in Fayette County. Wendy Pam Bailey, center, is in critical condition.(Facebook) Investigators with the Fayette County Sheriffs Office and the 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorneys Office interviewed Bailey several times while she was hospitalized at UAB in Birmingham. On Monday, the arrest warrants against Bailey were served. Bailey was released from UAB Hospital and booked into the Fayette County Jail. Prosecutors are asking that she be held without bond under Aniahs Law. This investigation has been particularly challenging as it involved the tragic deaths of two young children, District Attorney Andy Hamlin said. I want to commend the efforts and cooperation shown by every agency involved: the Fayette County Sheriffs Office, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Alabama State Troopers. The investigation began that Sunday when the crash happened on Fayette County 73 near Morris Cemetery Road, about two miles south of Glen Allen. A crash report said Collins was driving 92 mph hour on the road that had a 45-mph speed limit. The driver was driving aggressively at an extreme rate of speed, the ALEA trooper wrote. Due to his actions, the driver was unable to operate his vehicle safely on the wet roadway. The wreck happened when Collins was trying to negotiate a curve to the right, according to the report. The force of the impact caused Collins and his wife to be ejected from the truck. They were not wearing seat belts. Ryleigh Collins, who was unrestrained in the back seat, was pronounced dead on the scene at 11 a.m. Collins, who worked for a roofing company, was taken by ambulance to UAB Hospital, where he died the following day at 1:06 p.m. Bailey was airlifted to UAB. Following the deadly crash, investigators learned that Kahleb was missing. The Fayette County Sheriffs Office several days later issued a press release saying the 1-year-old had been missing since the Dec. 8 single-vehicle crash. The following day, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency issued a missing alert for Kahleb. Investigators carried out multiple searches at the familys home on Highway 129 in the Winfield area and traveled to Birmingham several times to interview Bailey at the hospital. Court records indicate the Alabama Department of Human Resources had been involved with the family. The boys grandfather, 55-year-old John Elton Bailey, is charged with failure to report a missing child as officials alleged that Kahleb was last seen Sept. 4. The criminal complaint states Bailey failed to report a missing child by delaying to make or failing to cause to be made the report with willful and reckless disregard for the safety of the child and the child suffered serious bodily harm or death, to wit: physical injuries to the child and the child was removed from the home and taken to an unknown location and no report was made by any resident of the home. Bailey was arrested Dec. 11 and remains held in the Fayette County Jail on $100,000 bond. One of Baileys appointed attorneys, James Standridge, said the public defenders office is now working to learn the facts of the case prior to the preliminary hearing which is set for Jan. 15. John Bailey is Wendy Baileys father and lived with the family. Brad Collins on Nov. 6 posted this on Facebook: Our son is not doing well. He is not growing has major back issues. His organs are growing but not his body. He has to have surgery at some point. Keep him in your prayers. Been rough and just seems going to be a long rough road ahead of us. The investigation is ongoing with additional charges possible against the mother, Hamlin said. Anyone with additional information is asked to call the sheriffs office at 205-932-3205, the State Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-392-8011 or Hamlins office at 205-367-9915. Now that the charges have been brought, Hamlin said, I look forward to getting the case to court to seek justice for these two innocent children. An Alabama toddler discovered missing after a crash killed his father and sister is believed by authorities to be dead and his critically injured mother is now charged in connection with his and his sisters deaths. Wendy Pam Bailey, 22, is charged with abuse of corpse, a Class C felony, aggravated child abuse, a Class A Felony, first-degree domestic violence, a Class A felony, and criminally negligent homicide, a Class A misdemeanor, 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin announced Monday. The criminally negligent homicide charge is for the death of 2-year-old Ryleigh Collins. The girl was killed in the horrific Dec. 8 crash that also killed 40-year-old Steven Bradley Brad Collins, who was Baileys husband and the father of Ryleigh and 1-year-old Kahleb Collins. The investigation showed Ryleigh was unrestrained when the fatal crash happened that Sunday morning. The rest of the charges are linked to the presumed death of Kahleb, whose body has not yet been found. Hamlin said the intense, three-week investigation led authorities to determine that Kahleb has been dead for several months. He said law enforcement is still actively searching for his remains. The warrants against Bailey were served Monday. Bailey was released from UAB Hospital and booked into the Fayette County Jail. Prosecutors are asking that she be held without bond under Aniahs Law. This investigation has been particularly challenging as it involved the tragic deaths of two young children,' Hamlin said. I want to commend the efforts and cooperation shown by every agency involved: the Fayette County Sheriffs Office, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Alabama State Troopers. The investigation began that Sunday when the crash happened on Fayette County 73 near Morris Cemetery Road, about two miles south of Glen Allen. A crash report said Collins was driving 92 mph hour on the road that had a 45-mph speed limit. The driver was driving aggressively at an extreme rate of speed, the ALEA trooper wrote. Due to his actions, the driver was unable to operate his vehicle safely on the wet roadway. The wreck happened when Collins was trying to negotiate a curve to the right, according to the report. The force of the impact caused Collins and his wife to be ejected from the truck. They were not wearing seat belts. Ryleigh Collins, who was unrestrained in the back seat, was pronounced dead on the scene at 11 a.m. Collins, who worked for a roofing company, was taken by ambulance to UAB Hospital where he died the following day at 1:06 p.m. Bailey was airlifted to UAB. Steven Bradly Collins, left, and Ryleight Collins, right were killed in a Dec. 8, 2024, traffic crash in Fayette County. Wendy Pam Bailey, center, is in critical condition.(Facebook) Following the deadly crash, investigators learned that Kahleb was missing. The Fayette County Sheriffs Office several days later issued a press release saying the 1-year-old had been missing since the Dec. 8 single-vehicle crash. The following day, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency issued a missing alert for Kahleb. Investigators carried out multiple searches at the familys home on Highway 129 in the Winfield area, and traveled to Birmingham several times to interview Bailey at the hospital. Court records indicate the Alabama Department of Human Resources had been involved with the family. The boys grandfather, 55-year-old John Elton Bailey, is charged with failure to report a missing child as officials alleged that Kahleb was last seen Sept. 4. The criminal complaint states Bailey failed to report a missing child by delaying to make or failing to cause to be made the report with willful and reckless disregard for the safety of the child and the child suffered serious bodily harm or death, to wit: physical injuries to the child and the child was removed from the home and taken to an unknown location and no report was made by any resident of the home. Bailey was arrested Dec. 11 and remains held in the Fayette County Jail on $100,000 bond. One of Baileys appointed attorneys, James Standridge, said the public defenders office is now working to learn the facts of the case prior to the preliminary hearing which is set for Jan. 15. John Bailey is Wendy Baileys father and lived with the family. Brad Collins on Nov. 6 posted this on Facebook: Our son is not doing well. He is not growing has major back issues. His organs are growing but not his body. He has to have surgery at some point. Keep him in your prayers. Been rough and just seems going to be a long rough road ahead of us. The investigation is ongoing with additional charges possible against the mother, Hamlin said. Anyone with additional information is asked to call the sheriffs office at 205-932-3205, the State Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-392-8011 or Hamlins office at 205-367-9915. Now that the charges have been brought, Hamlin said, I look forward to getting the case to court to seek justice for these two innocent children. Birmingham police said they are prepared to put the brakes on illegal street racing and exhibition driving on New Years Eve. Officer Truman Fitzgerald said through the departments focus on intelligence-led policing theyve received information from a Georgia law enforcement that recent events in the Atlanta metro area may continue into Birmingham. As a result, he said, they are relaunching Operation Knight Rider Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Last year, Mayor Randall Woodfin approached the leadership at the police department, asking for a plan to combat street racing and exhibition driving. Woodfin also joined members of the Jefferson County legislative delegation in November 2022 to announce plans to file a bill to prohibit and impose penalties for certain forms of exhibition driving, including street racing and drag racing, burnouts, donuts, and similar activities defined within the bill. That legislation was passed and signed by Gov. Kay Ivey last year. Previously, drivers could only get a ticket. Now, they face a minimum of misdemeanor charges, and up to a Class B felony if someone is injured or killed, or if there is property damage. Operation Knight Rider, launched earlier this year by now-Interim Police Chief Michael Pickett, analyzes data, and that data is used to narrow down and target hotspots for resource deployment. So far this year, 143 people have been arrested during Knight Rider, and 57 vehicles towed, including 10 stolen cars. Police seized 86 guns, including 10 equipped with Glock switches. Through strong partnerships, BPD has enhanced our NYE safety plan by allocating additional resources to address illegal celebratory gunfire and exhibition driving while continuing our regular crime-fighting duties, Fitzgerald said. Alabama State Troopers and Jefferson County sheriffs deputies will assist as force multipliers. While our priority is ensuring a safe and enjoyable New Years Eve celebration for all Birmingham residents, Fitzgerald said, we strongly urge potential participants of any crime to think twice. Starting the new year with a car, insurance or your freedom is not worth it, he said. This will be a zero-tolerance operation. Flash This file photo shows former U.S. President Jimmy Carter receiving a media interview in Atlanta, the United States, Dec. 7, 2008. [Photo/Xinhua] U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday appointed Jan. 9, 2025 as a National Day of Mourning throughout the United States for former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia. "I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter, Jr. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance," Biden said in a statement released by the White House. Biden also directed that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the federal government for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. The U.S. flag flies at half-staff at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, Dec. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua] If this tradition is observed, American flags will fly at half-staff at all U.S. federal buildings in honor of Carter during President-elect Donald Trump's presidential inauguration on Jan. 20. In the statement, Biden described Carter "a man of character, courage, and compassion, whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential statesmen in our history." In a statement on Sunday, Biden said that he will be ordering an official state funeral to be held in Washington, D.C. for Carter. All living U.S. presidents -- Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush -- have expressed condolences to the family of Carter following the death of the 39th president, who served from 1977 to 1981. Supporters of President-Elect Donald Trump have been waging a public battle in recent days over an immigration policy that many large Alabama companies use to draw skilled foreign workers. The H-1B Visa program allows American employers to temporarily hire non-citizens for high-skill, specialty jobs. The visa can cover everything from Department of Defense researchers to fashion models. Employers are supposed to use it if they cant find American citizens to do a job. Amazon was the largest beneficiary of the program this fiscal year, with 3,871 new H-1B employees, according to the National Foundation for American Policy. Google, Meta, Apple and IBM were all among the top 10 employers. According to Citizenship and Immigration Services, 273 Alabama companies have 1,129 H1-B positions approved. What is H-1B and why is it controversial? U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says H-1B applicants must have at least a bachelors degree or equivalent experience in the occupation theyre filling. Once someone gets a visa, they can get up to six years on the job. According to The Washington Post, immigration officials issue 85,000 H-1B visas each year 65,000 to first-time applicants and another 20,000 to those graduating with a masters degree or doctorate from a U.S. college or university. The controversy came following comments by high-profile Trump supporters, such as Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who say the visa program allows tech companies to gain necessary expertise from foreign workers. They were responding to Trump supporters such as Laura Loomer and Steve Bannon, who say the program allows companies to exploit foreign labor while denying Americans good paying jobs. Trump himself told The New York Post he supports the program, though he has been critical of it and restricted foreign worker visas during the first term in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. I have many H-1B visas on my properties. Ive been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. Its a great program, he said. According to The New York Times, Trump spoke out against the program while campaigning in 2016, calling it very bad for workers and stating that we should end it. The H1-B program is different than H2B visas, for unskilled labor, or H2A visas, for agricultural workers. Alabama H-1B employers The largest employer by far using workers under the H-1B visa program this year in Alabama is the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As of the end of September, UAB had 181 approved workers. And according to myvisajobs.com, a clearinghouse for job openings and applicants, the school has 296 Labor Condition Applications filed. An LCA is a document that a prospective employer files with the U.S. Labor Departments Employment and Training Administration when it seeks to employ non-immigrant workers at a specific job. The average salary of those job offers at UAB is $110,678. Auburn University has 76 visa beneficiaries approved, followed by Shipt with 63, and the University of Alabama Health Services Foundation with 60. The University of Alabama has 51, the same number as VT Mobile Aerospace Engineering. Notably, Huntsvilles health care authority, which has 15 applications filed with the program, offers the highest average salary of every company in the top 10, with 15 positions averaging $282,120. English News Airshow China mirrors new high of aviation market Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 27 Decembre 2024 This year, GE Aerospace joined the Airshow China as an independent brand for the first time. Its joint ventures have signed strategic cooperation agreements with several Chinese airlines, securing orders worth nearly $1.9 billion. By Qiu Chaoyi, He Linping, Gu Yekai, People's Daily The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China, was held in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong province from Nov. 12 to 17. The event was joined by over 1,000 enterprises from 47 countries and regions. From major national defense equipment to intelligent devices, and from green technologies to low-altitude economy, the 15th Airshow China showcased the technological innovations in China's aviation, aerospace, and defense sectors, building a platform for domestic and international companies to exchange and collaborate. Around 285.6 billion yuan (about $39.7 billion) worth of deals were signed at the exhibition, involving a record 1,195 aircraft. At the exhibition, a large number of cutting-edge products made their debut, dazzling the audience. China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) brought nearly 200 technological achievements to the event, including the Chang'e-6 lunar probe and Long March 12 carrier rocket. Seventy-five percent of these achievements were unveiled for the first time. In particular, a model of the world's first geostationary microwave meteorological satellite caught audience's attention. "After years of research and development, we have overcome a series of technical challenges. This satellite can achieve three-dimensional detection of clouds, rain, and atmospheric internal structures in real-time, all-weather, and high-frequency," said Yang Zhihao, deputy director of the science and technology committee of the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, CASC. The satellite is expected to be launched around 2026 and will play an active role in disaster prevention and reduction, Yang revealed. Intelligent unmanned equipment of all types were a highlight at the exhibition. "The application of intelligent equipment and command control systems has equipped us with the wings of informatization, digitization, and unmanned operation," said Cheng Ziheng, a spokesperson of China North Industries Group Corporation Limited. Among the 67 exhibited products brought to the event by Aero Engine Corporation of China, nearly half were unveiled for the first time. Many green products of the corporation left a deep impression on the audience. At the entrance of the exhibition hall, there were two domestically produced engines, the CJ2000 and CJ1000A. "They are used for wide-body and single-aisle aircraft respectively, featuring low emissions, low noise, and low fuel consumption," said Yang Song, a spokesperson of Aero Engine Corporation of China. Prior to the event, a special sea bass auction was held in Zhuhai. A drone flew to a remote sea farming platform, where it was loaded with 150 kilograms of sea bass, and returned to the auction site in just 10 minutes. Upon opening the box, the fish were still lively. With the booming development of low-altitude economy, a low-altitude economy pavilion was set up at this year's Airshow China. In addition to showcasing new products and applications, the event also hosted various forums, performances, signings, and other activities to provide a platform for exchange and cooperation in the development of the low-altitude economy. As the number of low-altitude aircraft surges, how to manage them in a science-based and efficient manner has become a hot topic. Some companies provided solutions at the air show. For example, Aviation Industry Corporation of China exhibited a series of low-altitude security equipment, which can be used to protect important facilities such as airports, warehouses, oil fields, and substations. Guangzhou Haige Communications Group launched a low-altitude flight management service platform, which can provide full-process services before, during, and after flights. China Electronics Technology Group Corporation showcased a low-altitude flight management service platform that supports real-time monitoring of more than 100,000 flight operations. As one of the world's top five air shows, the Airshow China serves not only as a showcase for new equipment, technologies, and applications from both domestic and international participants, but also as a major stage for aviation and aerospace companies to deepen cooperation and expand their market presence. It is reported that the number of foreign exhibitors at this year's Airshow China increased by 104 percent compared to that in the previous edition, with countries such as Russia, France, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Italy taking part in group displays. Leading global aviation companies like Airbus and Embraer also came to the event to seek cooperation opportunities. Today, China is Airbus's largest single-country market. Airbus predicted that over the next 20 years, more than 20 percent of the total global demand for new passenger and cargo aircraft will come from the Chinese market. During the air show, Airbus signed a series of cooperation agreements covering various areas such as innovative research and development and industrial collaboration. George Xu, CEO of Airbus China, said that the company will continue to expand its presence in China, support the high-quality development of the Chinese aviation industry, and actively contribute to the global aviation sector. This year, GE Aerospace joined the Airshow China as an independent brand for the first time. Its joint ventures have signed strategic cooperation agreements with several Chinese airlines, securing orders worth nearly $1.9 billion. Xiang Weiming, vice president of GE Aerospace, expressed confidence in the prospects of the Chinese market. He said the company will continue to expand its aircraft engine maintenance network in China, increase investment in production and manufacturing, and support the development of China's civil aviation industry. Dans la meme rubrique : < > High-quality Belt and Road cooperation create opportunities for global growth Technological cooperation leads to closer China-Africa economic, trade ties China's economic resilience, vitality in four sets of data Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News China's first deep-ocean drilling vessel commissioned Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 27 Decembre 2024 It is reported that China is initiating its own international ocean drilling program and will autonomously organize expeditions using the Meng Xiang vessel, in collaboration with the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) led by Europe and Japan in the future. By Chang Qin, Liu Juanxi, People's Daily The Meng Xiang, or "Dream", China's first domestically designed and built deep-ocean drilling vessel, was officially commissioned in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong province on Nov. 17. It marked a significant step forward for China in deep-sea exploration, detection and mining. Zhou Chang, head of the command of the drilling vessel from the China Geological Survey, the Ministry of Natural Resources, said that one of the key functions of the Meng Xiang vessel after its commissioning is to serve as a significant platform for global scientists to conduct deep-sea drilling research. Feng Qizeng, head of the drilling system of the Meng Xiang, said that the vessel is capable of conducting drilling operations on the seabed at depths of several thousand meters, accessing rock core samples from the seabed, and enabling direct observation, analysis, testing, and scientific research. Thanks to technological innovation and equipment integration, the vessel is able to drill as far as 11,000 meters beneath the sea, Feng added. The drilling system of the vessel leads the world. The Meng Xiang vessel is like a mobile "national laboratory" at sea. On board, there are nine laboratories including basic geology, paleomagnetism, organic geochemistry, microbiology, marine science, natural gas hydrates, geophysics, drilling technology, with a total area exceeding 3,000 square meters. These labs are equipped with over 150 sets of various precision experimental instruments. The Meng Xiang vessel is equipped with an "intelligent brain." Its advanced comprehensive information system can aggregate and analyze data from over 20,000 monitoring points in real time, enabling intelligent monitoring, intelligent collaboration in experiments, intelligent health protection for personnel, and intelligent vessel-shore integration throughout the entire operation process. "For offshore drilling and experiments, the stability of the vessel is crucial. The Meng Xiang vessel can operate normally with a degree six on the Douglas sea scale and survive under level-17 typhoons," said Zhang Haibin, chief designer of the vessel. The vessel has a gross tonnage of 33,000 tons, a total length of 179.8 meters, a beam of 32.8 meters, a displacement of 42,600 tons, a range of 15,000 nautical miles, and a crew capacity of 180 people. It can work at sea for 120 consecutive days without replenishment. With a draft of 9.2 meters, it can pass major sea areas and dock at major terminals around the world. It is reported that the preliminary design of the vessel was completed in May 2020. Construction work started in November 2021, and comprehensive sea trials were finished in October 2024. "It is the first ship of its kind, so there was no precedent to follow. The engineering volume is more than ten times that of existing marine vessels and tens of times that of scientific research vessels. The enormous pressure at the depths of 11,000 meters poses challenges to equipment, water, electricity, fluids, and materials," Zhang said. By leveraging the concept of "modular design," several world-class technological challenges have been overcome, which has made this small-tonnage vessel multifunctional. The vessel is the first in the world that combines deep-sea scientific drilling, deep-sea oil and gas exploration, and natural gas hydrate exploration and trial mining. After two rounds of sea trials, the Meng Xiang vessel has proven its key performance indicators to exceed design expectations, achieving several major breakthroughs. It has established a fully independent Chinese technological system for the design and construction of ultra-deepwater drilling equipment. For over half a century, thousands of drilling operations have been conducted in major oceans worldwide, leading to a series of scientific achievements. However, the dream of "penetrating the Mohorovicic discontinuity and entering the upper mantle" has yet to be realized. "The Earth is like an egg with a shell: the 'eggshell' is the crust, the 'egg white' is the mantle, and the 'egg yolk' is the core, with the Mohorovicic discontinuity between the crust and mantle," explained Zhu Rixiang, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Penetrating the Mohorovicic discontinuity has significant implications for gaining a deeper understanding of the Earth's interior material composition, structure, physical and chemical properties, evolutionary patterns, and can also play a crucial role in areas such as earthquake prediction and mineral resource exploration. With the official commissioning of the Meng Xiang vessel, China will possess the capability to independently organize expeditions, similar to the United States, Japan, and Europe, thereby playing a more significant role in international scientific ocean drilling. It is reported that China is initiating its own international ocean drilling program and will autonomously organize expeditions using the Meng Xiang vessel, in collaboration with the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) led by Europe and Japan in the future. Dans la meme rubrique : < > High-quality Belt and Road cooperation create opportunities for global growth Technological cooperation leads to closer China-Africa economic, trade ties China's economic resilience, vitality in four sets of data Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) Eight years back around this time of the year, some Hollywood has-beens released a message urging Electoral College representatives to not vote for Trump, whom they deemed unfit to be President, before the results were certified. They hoped to convince enough Republican electors such that Trump's electoral college tally would be reduced to less than the required 270. Concurrently, Electoral College representatives received death threats while anti-Trump protests and riots sprung up in Democrat-run states. These undemocratic efforts backed by Democrats failed and Trump was inaugurated on January 20, 2017. This time, the Democrat insanity isn't overt -- possibly because the Democrats spent four years pushing the 'insurrection' hoax and used it during the bumbling word salad chef's fumbling campaign. Perhaps the Democrats don't want to appear blatantly hypocritical by rejecting Trump's emphatic victory. Perhaps they know their efforts will be futile and have settled to peddling hoaxes during the Trump presidency. However, not all Democrats think a Trump Presidency in 2025 is unavoidable. Recently, The Hill published a piece written by Columbia Law Review editor-in-chief Evan Davis and former editor-in-chief of the Yale Law Journal David Schulte, directed at Congress. The authors quote Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution to make the case that Trump's disqualification is based on insurrection against the Constitution: No person shall hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previously taken an oath to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. To support their insurrection claim, the authors cite evidence from three forums: The first forum is Trumps second impeachment trial. "...On Jan. 13, 2021, then-President Trump was impeached for incitement of insurrection. At the trial in the Senate, seven Republicans joined all Democrats to provide a majority for conviction but failed to reach the two-thirds vote required for removal from office. Inciting insurrection encompasses engaging in insurrection against the Constitution or giving aid and comfort to the enemies thereof, the grounds for disqualification specified in Section 3." The authors conveniently forget that Trump was cleared by the Senate and that the impeachment failed. The second forum cited is the Colorado Supreme Court ruling to remove Trump from the ballot based on the 14th Amendment disqualification. The authors quote the Court ruling that found by clear and convincing evidence that President Trump engaged in insurrection as those terms are used in Section Three. However, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Trump's favor in their unanimous verdict that "states have no power under the Constitution to enforce Section 3 for federal offices, especially the Presidency." But the authors claim the "Supreme Court did not address the finding that Trump had engaged in insurrection," hence Congress can reject electoral votes when they convene on Jan. 6. The authors add that "counting the Electoral College votes is a matter uniquely assigned to Congress by the Constitution. Under well-settled law, this fact deprives the Supreme Court of a voice in the matter, because the rejection of the vote on constitutionally specified grounds is a nonreviewable political question." The authors recommend that Congress reject the electoral vote based on the Electoral Count Act, which allows for an objection if "the electors from a state were not lawfully certified or if the vote of one or more electors was not 'regularly given.'" "To make an objection under the Count Act requires a petition signed by 20 percent of the members of each House. If the objection is sustained by a majority vote in each house, the vote is not counted and the number of votes required to be elected is reduced by the number of disqualified votes. If all votes for Trump were not counted, Kamala Harris would be elected president." Yes, you read that correctly -- they still think Kamala, who lost both the Electoral College and popular vote, can be president. The authors also cite testimonies from the 'bipartisan' inquiry of the January 6th House Select Committee. This section is littered with the following falsehoods. "Trump unlawfully demanded that his vice president, Mike Pence, throw out votes in the Electoral College for political opponent Joe Biden, a power he did not have." ".....while the riot was in progress, Trump used Pences rejection of his demand to further enflame the crowd and cause them to chant Hang Mike Pence! The piece concludes that the Democrats must "take a stand against Electoral College votes for a person disqualified by the Constitution from holding office unless and until this disability is removed. No less is required by their oath to support and defend the Constitution." So what do we make of this? The piece, littered with myriad debunked Democrat lies, isn't even remotely persuasive. Trump's emphatic victory last month was a rejection of those lies by the public; it was also a verdict against law enforcement and judicial overreach. The self-righteous often lack self-awareness, hence the irony that an insurrection hoax was being used to mount a case for an insurrection wasn't comprehended by the authors. What is amazing is that The Hill deemed this worthy of publishing. Before an article is published it is fact-checked while the editorial board decides if the piece is worthy of public consumption. But for this piece, the factual inaccuracies and the unintended irony were ignored. There's a slim possibility that the goal behind the publishing of this piece is that the outrage caused will boost traffic to their website. The piece received intense backlash on social media. The Hill may claim they allow all kinds of opinions. But they haven't published articles about unfairness in the 2020 elections? The Hill didn't cover the influence of Zuckerbucks on the 2020 elections, Twitter blocking the Hunter Biden story, or former intelligence officials falsely claiming that the laptop story was Russian disinformation. All The Hill's articles on the 2020 elections that appeared seem to be pushing Democrat narratives. This serves as another reminder that outfits like The Hill serve as mouthpieces for the Democrats. To call them pro-Democrats is an understatement -- they are the Democrats. This absurd piece involves a conspiracy to overturn the 2024 elections and must be regarded as the Democrats thinking aloud. The NYT, the WaPo, etc., are the foremost Democrat mouthpieces, while The Hill and Politico are tier 2 propagandists aspiring to achieve tier 1 status. Perhaps decision makers at The Hill think that they will achieve tier 1 status by publishing such pieces, i.e., Democrats will be impressed by their propaganda. Like all propagandists, The Hill doesn't care about their credibility after publishing such a shoddy article. Their goal is not to cover facts but to relentlessly push hoaxes, and they do so unrepentantly. This should be a wake-up call to those who assume that the Democrats have surrendered to the inevitability of a Trump presidency. They may not be able to prevent Trump from being inaugurated, but they will most certainly place impediments during his Presidency. Hopefully everyone, especially President Trump and his team, remains very alert. Image: AT via Magic Studio With the recent nomination of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the nations premier federal health agency, its important to remember that Kennedys star began to rise decades ago by exposing fraudulent medical and corporate research and food safety issues. In a sense, Kennedy is a kind of whistleblower on a national level. But hes not the only one and, with Kennedys rise to power, AbleChild is reminded of another whistleblower, Allen Jones, whose exposure of dirty dealing between the pharmaceutical industry and state mental health agencies needs to be remembered and recognized. It takes courage to stand up to corruption. Jones, not one to shy away from controversy or be strongarmed into walking away, stood up to the behemoth pharmaceutical industry and ultimately protected children in ways they will never fully understand. In a nutshell, Jones, as an investigator with the Pennsylvania Office of the Inspector General, was tasked with investigating the states chief pharmacist, Steve Fiorello, who was reported to have been receiving payments from drug companies a clear violation of Pennsylvania law. But Jones uncovered a much deeper financial scheme, where the money flowing into Fiorellos unregistered account was also flowing out of it and into an account belonging to the director of the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. Jones had no idea that he was about to run head-first into the then-controversial Texas Medication Algorithm Project (TMAP). Basically, TMAP was a system of collecting information about pharmacological management and providing an algorithm-driven mental health management program in other words, what psychiatric drugs work best for specific mental health diagnoses. Then those chosen drug treatments would be used by state mental health programs. Aside from the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all psychiatric drug regimen, the problem is that TMAP was compromised because Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary, Janssen, were paying state officials in a number of ways to promote it. Promoting TMAP has been called little more than an off-label marketing program funded by drug companies which used flattery, cushy travel, expensive restaurants and pocketed honoraria to get key state officials to green light switching massive numbers of patients from low-cost mental health drugs to then new atypical antipsychotics, such as Risperdal, that cost ten times as much. Risperdal, approved for the treatment of bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder, risks some extreme adverse events, including breast growth in men and boys. Jones took these findings to his superiors and, much to his surprise, was told to leave it alone. It was too political. When Jones refused to walk away, he was taken off the case. Soon after, he learned that TMAP would be implemented in Pennsylvania. Jones filed a First Amendment civil rights lawsuit and told his story to the New York Times. Pennsylvania state officials did not appreciate Joness honesty and summarily fired him. Not only did Jones file new lawsuits, but his case drew the interest of the Texas attorney generals office. In 2011, the Texas A.G., with the help of Joness documents, settled with Johnson & Johnson for $158 million. Three other states filed and settled similar cases. Janssens and Johnson & Johnsons off-label Risperdal cases culminated in the U.S. Department of Justice settling a global suit to the tune of more than two billion dollars. AbleChild had the opportunity to speak with Jones over the holidays, and we are honored to include Jones as one of our biggest supporters. Its been more than two decades since Jones took on the pharmaceutical industry. Jones is an honorable man who sees his intervention as a necessity and hopes that some children will have benefited from his efforts. He also understands that the drug industry is burrowed into our government to an unbelievably deep and unhealthy degree. The problem, says Jones is that nothing changes, no matter how you call out the ethical problems among government, universities, and the pharmaceutical companies. Jones is hopeful that Kennedy will be confirmed at HHS and act immediately to remove pharmaceutical advertising from television. Jones also hopes that Kennedy will take a look at these mental health advisory committees and the extent to which industry has infiltrated the drug approval process. Jones agrees that the top executives at the pharmaceutical companies need to be held personally responsible for the harm created by their companies misdeeds. The financial settlements are baked into the drug profits by the bean-counters, explains Jones, so there have to be stronger punishments. ... They need to do some jail time. The top guys, said Jones, have to be held responsible for the harm these drugs cause. Jones understands the power of pharmaceutical companies and acknowledges that his fight two decades ago was all-encompassing. Would he do it again? I would hope that people would step up, says Jones, but it takes an irrational amount of dedication. ... It can take over your life. For me, explains Jones, there was something there that I could not ignore, but it will take over your life and can hurt you. I would encourage anyone who sees impropriety to expose it, concludes Jones, but just be aware there is great personal risk. Jones was later acknowledged for his whistleblower efforts by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights and Taxpayers Against Fraud. AbleChild honors Jones for his integrity, without which children in many of the fifty states would have been subjected to harmful drug prescriptions. And, ultimately, thanks to Jones and other whistleblowers, TMAP is no longer used by the states as a psychiatric drug medication program. Image via Pixabay. On December 22, 2024, during an interview on Face the Nation, Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, dismissed the trafficking of children at the border as "outside the responsibility of DHS." This stunning remark followed a scathing Inspector General's report that exposed systemic failures and the federal governments inability to account for 300,000 missing migrant children. The report underscores a breakdown that extends beyond DHS to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), both of which report directly to President Biden and Vice President Harris. This is not just a bureaucratic failure -- it is a collapse of leadership at the highest level. To grasp the scale of this tragedy, consider that 300,000 children is equivalent to the populations of St. Louis, Cincinnati, or Pittsburgh. Imagine an entire city of children vanishing without a trace. Some of these children are dead. Others endure horrific abuse. Yet, Mayorkas shrugs off responsibility as though these children simply disappeared. The Inspector Generals report laid bare the federal governments inability to track children after their release from custody and its gross failure to vet sponsors. Speaker Mike Johnson called this a moral failing, rightly pointing to the administrations dangerously misplaced priorities. Policies of Empathy, Results of Chaos The Biden-Harris administration portrays its border policies as compassionate, but the reality tells a different story. By dismantling Trump-era measures like Remain in Mexico, the administration broadcast to the world that the U.S. border was open. Predictably, human traffickers and cartels took full advantage, leading to a humanitarian disaster of staggering proportions. HHS, overwhelmed by a surge in unaccompanied minors, resorted to hasty, negligent vetting processes. In one case, more than 50 children were released to the same address. In another, a child was abandoned in an empty field, left utterly alone. This isnt compassion. Its neglect and abuse, masked by hollow progressive rhetoric. Lost and Exploited A New York Times investigation uncovered the exploitation of these children in industries ranging from shadowy operations to household-name corporations. In California, they stitch "Made in America" tags into J. Crew shirts. They bake dinner rolls sold at Walmart and Target, process milk for Ben & Jerrys ice cream, and debone chicken sold at Whole Foods. In Michigan, children produce auto parts for Ford and General Motors. This isnt just a hidden issue in construction or agriculture. It is systemic exploitation, implicating major corporations. The governments abandonment of 300,000 children has created a moral catastrophe that tarnishes both public and private institutions. The Homeland Security Act and DHSs Obligation T he Homeland Security Act of 2002 tasked DHS with enforcing immigration laws, securing borders, and combating human trafficking. Efforts like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Blue Campaign, established in 2010, were designed to uphold these mandates. The Blue Campaign collaborates with NGOs, private organizations, and law enforcement to prevent trafficking and protect victims. Mayorkass deflection of responsibility defies this mandate. The administrations reckless border policies amplified this crisis, and the question remains: who will take responsibility for these missing children? The Hypocrisy of the Left Where is the progressive outrage now? The same voices that condemned Trump-era family separations as inhumane have fallen silent in the face of this far greater tragedy. The speeches, protests, and emotional appeals are nowhere to be found. By claiming to care deeply about immigrant children, the Biden administration cloaks itself in empathy. Yet its policies created the conditions for this disaster. Worse, many progressives will rediscover their outrage against President Trump, eager to blame him for crises they ignored. Its a sickening truth: these children only seem to matter when they serve as political tools. Mayorkas: The Worst Cabinet Official Since McNamara? To call Mayorkas unfit for his position is an understatement. He presides over the most porous border in modern history, with over 2.4 million illegal encounters in fiscal year 2023 alone. Untold millions more likely crossed undetected, slipping into the country without notice. His department has failed to enforce border security, empowered traffickers, and abandoned children -- with countless others lost due to DHSs negligence. When historians assess this era, Mayorkas will likely be remembered as the worst cabinet official since Robert McNamara, who escalated the Vietnam War, or Albert Fall, whose corruption led to the Teapot Dome scandal. Like McNamaras disastrous escalation of the Vietnam War and Falls corruption that eroded public trust, Mayorkass tenure is a crisis of competence and integrity. His legacy will be measured not only by administrative failures but by the lives irrevocably harmed by his negligence. Mayorkas Must Be Held Accountable Restoring dignity and justice for these children demands accountability and a national commitment to never repeat these failures. These children deserved better -- and so does America. Congress must act decisively. Investigations, oversight hearings, and legislative reform are essential. Holding Mayorkas and others accountable must remain a priority beyond Inauguration Day. The loss of 300,000 children is not a statistic. Each is a life stolen by systemic failure. Alejandro Mayorkas failed them. The Biden-Harris administration has failed them. And they have failed us all. Charlton Allen is an attorney and former Chief Executive Officer and Chief Judicial Officer of the North Carolina Industrial Commission. He is the founder and editor of The American Salient and the host of The Modern Federalist podcast. Image: Department of Homeland Security Richard Dawkins does not like the electoral college much, writing, Its not that I dislike elections generally. And praise be a population of 300 million Americans has managed to raise one presidential candidate who is not a convicted felon awaiting sentence. No, my problem with American elections and it viscerally distresses me every four years is the affront to democracy called the Electoral College. Obviously Professor Dawkins, who wrote Trump is a mendacious, malevolent, transparently evil man, and stupid with it, felt that Trump could not win, like the MSM in the United States confidently proclaiming Trump cannot win. Of course he knows by now Kamalala la lost the popular vote too. Richard Dawkins is a scientific genius. Assuming Western civilization survives, and that is not how I would bet, long after people remember what he felt about Trump, Dawkins will be hailed as the discoverer of memes. But geniuses do not have any sort of special knowledge or insight beyond their area, and this has been the issue with Dawkins writing about religion too. Indeed Albert Einstein was incredibly politically naive, and an ardent socialist. The Electoral College exists as a compromise, like so many other things that exist. It evolved in large part because states saw themselves as at least semi-independent countries, and a small state thought itself as important as a large state. It is true that one of the unintended consequences of the Electoral College is that every single vote in a swing state is of great importance, while in New York state, swamped and corrupted by the sewer of woke anti-Americanism that is New York City, a vote for president is a meaningless symbolic gesture. If the Democrat party ran Yahya Sinwar, he would carry New York State. My late father was a wise and sensible man but he never understood why the laws in different states should be so different. Isnt this one country? he would rhetorically ask. Well, in some ways it is not, but rather, to an extent, a union of countries. True, that view was lost in the Civil War and has been consistently losing ground ever since. Political scientist Melissa M. Lee writes on how the linguistic shift from plural to singular demonstrates the evolution of sovereign authority in the US. In the distant past it has changed from the United States are to the United States is. Up until after the Civil War the United States of America was used as a descriptive rather than a proper name. The concept of states rights wasnt something the South pulled out of thin air. Even today, states maintain an identity and a level of independence. New York City is where Stalin is still praised, people are burned alive on the subway, and urination on the streets is common practice. It is where American flags are for burning, Hamas are heroes, and so-called Christian nationalists from barbaric red states threaten to enslave us. It is where having an air gun means a prison sentence, yet it is still a lootin and shootin capital. However, as thankfully the election showed, somewhere there are Americans in red states who stand for the pledge of allegiance, who worship a Christian God, who legally own guns but manage not to shoot one another. That is why the Electoral College exists. Chestertons Fence dictates that you do not destroy something until you understand why it was erected in the first place, and there is a very good reason why the Electoral College evolved into its form. While under the Electoral College system, large states dont wield a disproportionate weight as the number of electoral votes is dependent on population, and it gives small states more of a say in the election than they would otherwise have. Political Correct-Think Is Not Enough Richard Dawkins suffers the unusual dilemma of being hated by those with whom he identifies. He is a guardian leftist hated by other leftists for the offense of elevating science above woke. Professor Dawkins seems not to have gotten the message that Western science is a toxic white male invention propagated by racist heterosexual cisgender colonialists. He stubbornly clings to the scientific method, not unlike red states that cling to American values. He refuses to spout the required woke religious beliefs that the human brain bears no sign of an evolutionary history and somehow magically evolved to serve Marxism, that indigenous science is superior, and that men have periods and can give birth. His politics may be correct-think, yet as he is finding out, that is not enough. A person in 2024 Islamic Britain can no longer understand Americans. At least parts of the United States are holding on to a belief in American exceptionalism. The American victory in the 2024 election held back the flood waters a little longer. As a neighbor said of the results of the 2024 election, God has given America one last chance. Do not blow it, America. Long may Americans believe in American exceptionalism. Image: Mike Cornwell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. At the end of each year, as a new year is about to be born, we take a moment to reflect on the past and on what the new year might bring. According to the CDCif anything they say can be believedcurrent American life expectancy for men is 74.8 years and for women, 80.2 years. Theres that white male privilege again. Graphic: Old Father Time statue, Sandringham, Norfolk - geograph.org.uk. Wikimedia common.org. CC A-SA 2.0. For the past six years Ive been writing about the probability of a second civil war. Thats a hot civil war. The cold civil war, mostly fought on the cultural battlefield, continues apace. With the election of Donald Trump and the promise of substantial swamp draining Ive downgraded from probability to possibility. What were dealing with is hubrisexcessive pridewhich inevitably leads to disaster. As always, much depends on which path Americans take: the path of liberty or the path of totalitarianism. One sideDemocrats/socialists/communists (D/s/cs)believe in equality of outcomeequity. They believe not only in big government, but that government can never be big enough. Theyre the self-imagined, credentialed elite, the morally and intellectually superior, the expert class whose policies, like themselves, are perfect, non-falsifiable. They know America is evil, systemically racist, oppressive and just plain stupid and its their destiny to fundamentally transform it, to create the new, D/s/c man. They alone are qualified to recreate human nature into what they know it can and must be: a mirror image of themselves. They are their higher power. On the other side are Normal Americans, largely but not exclusively Republicans. Politics do not consume them. Because most are Christian they know theyre fallen, sinners, and they labor to be worthy of Gods promise. They arent entitled. They expect to work for what they have and expect to be judged on their abilities and effort. Working, treating others with sincerity and kindness, caring for their families and going about the innumerable small things that make up daily American life are their focus. They believe in the Constitution and the rule of law, in equal opportunity and merit. While many have credentials they know experience and demonstrated ability are most important. They know things, do things, invent and make things. Theyre the people who make America work. They dont care about race and gender. They judge others as Martin Luther King urged: on the content of their character. They know they cant change human nature, but they might help others change themselves, one soul at a time. The next four years will largely determine which of those views of America, of human nature, will prevail. If Donald Trump succeeds in draining the swamp, in clearing the deadwood and malice from the federal work force, well have the opportunity to see just how much of that non-work force was not only unnecessary but detrimental to the republic. Not our democracy, but to our constitutional, representative republic, where elected officials and every federal employee are hired hands, accountable to the Americans who hired them, duty bound to serve them and the ideals that created and sustain our republic. That too is a fundamental difference in outlook. D/s/cs virtually never say representative republic, choosing instead our democracy. This is a very conscious choice, a matter of narrative and messaging, an attempt to define the terms of the debate and in so doing win before a word is spoken. Our democracy is a tyranny of the majority, totalitarianism dressed up in Sunday clothes. Our representative republic limits them in every way, in rhetoric, in intent, in power, and the self-imagined elite accept no limitations. Looking back on the last year, on the last four years, Americans saw enormous damage to the republic and to their personal hopes and fortunes. Aroused from the hard work of daily living, of maintaining and building America they ignored the D/s/c media and informed themselves, went to the polls in numbers that overwhelmed the margin of fraud and voted themselves and America another chance. Hopefully, enough of them also understand if America is to prosper, if it is to survive, theyll have to be more involved in politics on a daily basis. Theyre going to need to hold congressional Republicans feet to the fire. Theyre going to have to demand actual, not rhetorical accountability. Theyre going to have to demand the truth about every crime the Harris/Biden Administration committed, about every scandal, every hoax. Theyre going to have to demand an end to DEI, CRT, every facet of wokeness, and a return of merit and sanity. At least now, those things and so much more are possible, perhaps even likely. But theyre still going to stock up on ammunition, guns and other supplies, because they understand human nature. They also understand their only true privilege was being born American. In 2024, we may discover, all over again, how much thats worth. On a different subject, if you are not already a subscriber, you may not know that weve implemented something new: A weekly newsletter with unique content from our editors for subscribers only. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. There's a persistent truism out there that while Jimmy Carter was an execrable president, he was nevertheless a great ex-president. It's balderdash. He may have done some worthy deeds around the eradication of disease and the building of homes for the homeless. But he was every bit as bad an ex-president as he was a sitting president. It wasn't just his nasty, irritable personality, as described by newsman and AT contributor Peter Chowka here, and former U.S. diplomat Lewis Amselem from firsthand experience as bystanders in random events. It was in his meddling political involvement abroad. Amselem described in his long tweet-story how Carter paid a visit to Indonesia in 2004 and in his speech to the locals, launched into a series of verbal broadsides against U.S. foreign policy from the grounds of the U.S. embassy as the diplomats stared at each other, utterly stupefied. He also became a self-styled election observer, supposedly in the name of promoting democracy, in which the dictator tended to win. In Venezuela, his involvement with the Carter Center in 2004 certifying its likely fraud-filled recall referendum on Hugo Chavez served to seal Chavez's grip on power and create the Venezuelan hellhole we know today. It was a mixture of arrogance and naivete. Here's the money-quote from the executive summary put out by the Carter Center certifying Venezuela's 2004 referendum as free and fair: In the end, many of the threatened restrictions on the OAS and Carter Center observer missions did not materialize, and the CNE granted both organizations authorization for all of the observers requested, complete freedom of movement on election day, and access to all technical locations of the process, with the exception of the central totalization room. So with the exception of what went on in the totalization room, all was free and fair. Where do these boobs think election fraud happens? Had Carter not given Chavez that veneer of democratic respectability with his "certification," of that fraudy vote, Chavez would not have lasted in power as he did and his successors still do, for Chavez had been about as popular as Carter was in the states in the Venezuela of his day. Here's how bad the effect of that Hugo-dorsement was, according to Guillermo Ramos Flamerich, writing in the leftish but anti-Chavez Caracas Chronicles: The figure of former President Carter may have become an endorsement and a democratic veneer for chavismo. His declarations that the electoral process in Venezuela is the best in the world, although referring to its technical robustness, were repeated countless times by Hugo Chavez as a description of the political environment as a whole, as if Carters words meant there was no danger of authoritarianism in Venezuela. Had enough? There's also a photo in the Caracas Chronicle piece, showing Carter gripping and grinning with Hugo, telling the entire world that all was free and fair in that referendum and Hugo had the love of the masses. It was such rubbish. Venezuelan voters reported flipped ballots, ballots that weren't there, ballots that had already been voted in, and strange election tallies. Data and computer scientists from about a half a dozen prestigious universities found the result to be statistically improbable. The opposition refused to go along with the idea that they lost the election because they knew they had won. Jennifer McCoy, who was Carter's point woman at the Carter Center which called the referendum as free and fair, effectively called the opposition sore losers for being unhappy about her insistence that except for what went on in the totalization room, all was free and fair. Writing for The Conversation last year, she made these ridiculous claims: Although the opposition was initially skeptical of Carter, given that he was invited by Chavez, it came to value Carters entree with Chavez and held high expectations he could hold Chavez to any commitments. When an eventual agreement led to a recall referendum petition process, Carter forcefully pushed a stalling Chavez and his team to acknowledge that the opposition had gathered sufficient signatures to hold the referendum to decide whether to end Chavezs term early. But when the vote finally happened in August 2004, Chavez had managed to turn the tide in his favor in the opinion polls by spending on social programs. He won the vote decisively. The opposition alleged the vote count was fraudulent, while the OAS and The Carter Center audits of the count did not detect fraud. I received many messages from irate Venezuelans blaming Carter and me for ignoring fraud and allowing Chavez to continue in power in Venezuela. I learned then what a thick skin a public figure must have to withstand the fury of severely disappointed people. Actually, it really was fraud. That's not me, that's what data and computer scientists at half a dozen major universities proved. And what happened in the wake of that Carter-certified fraud is that every election that followed in that country was fraudulent in some regard after Carter. And in the eyes of many, the fraud was exported abroad, including to the U.S. where similar cheating charges prevail, as one would-be tyrant learned from another. By 2024, the fraud in Venezuela was so practiced, so naked, so open, even the Carter Center had to say it was fraudulent as the authentic democrats in Venezuela had proved it beyond a reasonable doubt. That the fraud was known to the opposition is why the opposition were ready for the Chavista cheating in Venezuela's last election this past July; they knew exactly where to look to find the evidence and thus demonstrate the fraud, which they did. It was only then that the Carterites finally admitted fraud. Does McCoy really expect us to think that Chavez and his successors conducted free and fair elections all along and only decided to go fraudulent this year? Or did they have a lot of practice? Big fraud takes big practice, and Chavistas had 20 years of it. Chavez died in 2013 of Cuban medical incompetence in treating his cancer. Nicolas Maduro succeeded him. Carter took lovey-dovey photos with Maduro, too, handing the dictator a copy of his book in 2015, which the dictator tweeted to show everyone he had Jimmy's admiration and respect: According to Flamerich, in his Caracas Chonicles piece: A part of the domestic public opinion lost respect for the former president and the Carter Center ended its work in Venezuela in 2015. Then they began to denounce the lack of transparency and refused to come as observers in 2021. In 2024 they agreed to attend with a minimal mission to the July 28 presidential elections. Two days later, in their official statement, the Carter Center informed that the elections did not comply with the international parameters and standards of electoral integrity, and therefore could not be considered democratic. Nicolas Maduro would respond that when Jimmy Carter was active such things did not happen. What Maduro was unwittingly saying was that he's been doing things the way he's always been doing them, and only Jimmy Carter and his minions were stupid enough to be fooled, as well as certify him, coddling him and taking selfies with him instead. McCoy explained the Carter mentality as though it were something noble: In my view, Carters genius as a mediator is his belief that there is some innate goodness in every person, no matter the harm they may perpetrate. He strove to develop a connection with even the most detestable dictators because he knew their decisions could change the future of a society. Once he had a relationship with those leaders, he presented them with the hard choices they needed to make. And he always kept his compass. He focused on the well-being of the people in the countries he was helping, not his personal successes or failures. His approach opened him to criticism that he cozied up to dictators. But, to me, he just exercised realism and persistence. Now Venezuelans are paying the price, in lost democracy and a ruined country, scattering to the four corners of the globe in their millions, because there's no way to vote a tyrant with a taste for election cheating out of office. That's not promoting democracy -- that's fostering dictators. That's disastrous for them as well as us, given that dictators in our hemisphere are costly problems in more ways than one. Had Carter wanted to wreck that place, he couldn't have done a better job. Maybe that's why there won't be too many respects paid to Carter after what he enabled. All he needed to do was tell the truth about what was happening and he didn't do it. He chose the selfies instead. Image: Twitter screen shot Legislators at all levels tend to think they were elected to legislate. Actually, they were elected to do the opposite, to slow, even halt the grinding of the gears of big government. They were elected to do that by sane, normal Americans, people who understand big government is the problem, not the solution. We have no shortage of laws and regulations, so legislators should only write and pass absolutely necessary laws, laws that dont duplicate whats already on the books, laws that do not infringe on liberty and that provide a clear, necessary public benefit. Hate crime laws are not among them. Such laws are always thought crime laws. They assume because of the race or gender of the supposed criminal or victim, regardless of any of the facts surrounding the alleged crime, hate must have been involved. They are a part and parcel of identity politics which establishes favored victim groups who by their identities are more important, moral and valuable to society than Normal Americans, therefore transgressing against them requires greater punishment. The presumption of hate places the burden of proof on the accused, who is, by virtue of transgressing against a member of a protected identity group, guilty until they prove themselves innocent. Graphic: X Screenshot What experience teaches, particularly over the last decade or so, is the demand for hate crimes greatly exceeds the supply. Who can forget the Bubba Wallace NASCAR hoax where no less than 15 FBI agents were sent to a racetrack where a noose was found in a garage assigned to Wallace. Those crack agents discovered the noose was merely a piece of rope, a pull down for a garage door, which was in place months before Wallace was randomly assigned that garage. Hate crime incidents are common on college campuses, and virtually always turn out to be innocuous or outright frauds, such as a noose hanging from a nearby construction crane that turned out to be nothing more than a standard steel cable fixture, or a noose hanging on a dormitory doorknob that turned out to be a shoelace left in the hallway and hung on the door by a student hoping whoever lost it would find it. In another shocking case, Klansmen in hoods rampaging through a campus were discovered to be a couple students wrapped in blankets against the cold. Often, the fraudsters claiming racial hate turn out to be black students. When caught, they confess and claim they were only trying to start a conversation about hate or race or something. According to The College Fix, there were 21 such hoaxes on American campuses in 2024, which might indicate the number is declining. Here are a few: Missouri noose is not racially motivated school district says A kid in crisis left the noose. After extensive conversations and investigation, we do not believe this to be a racially-motivated incident, the Francis Howell School school district said. A black parent had jumped to the conclusion that the noose was racially motivated while the local NAACP connected it to conservative school board members pushing for a right-leaning agenda. The article doesnt identify the race of the kid in crisis, which if media trends hold, likely indicates they were black. N-word notes at Rhodes College were a hoax University investigates, finds F n-word and Trump rules notes near plaza dedicated to black sororities and fraternities were fabricated. As is common, the college declined to identify the perpetrator in any way. Blackface banner at Colorado State was just due to ink bleeding, lighting Remember a good rule in life is to assume the most charitable reason first before accusing a fraternity of being racist. In this case, even though there was no hate crime, the fraternity was compelled to state they recognized unintended harms caused by their non-actions. LGBT hate crime victim at Illinois State U. is not even gay, university omits key reasons why case was closed The alleged victim of an anti-gay hate crime is not even homosexual and he changed his story multiple times. Campus police were unable to establish the elements of the offense. Translation: it didnt happen. University of Virginia settles with white student accused of racism for speed bumps comment A white student, Morgan Bettinger, received an undisclosed settlement from the school after a black student, now a fat liberation advocate for Dove, accused her of joking about running over black activists. UVA punished her, as The College Fix previously reported. In this case, the supposed racist happened on a anti-police roadblocking protest and said to a truck driver who was blocking the road: Well, its a good thing youre here because otherwise they could be made speed bumps. And the lack of an adequate supply of hate crimes to meet activist demand continues. On a different subject, if you are not already a subscriber, you may not know that weve implemented something new: A weekly newsletter with unique content from our editors for subscribers only. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. Flash UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks to the press outside the Security Council Chamber at the UN headquarters in New York, on Dec. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua] UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for making 2025 "a new beginning" in his message for the New Year. "Throughout 2024, hope has been hard to find. Wars are causing enormous pain, suffering and displacement. Inequalities and divisions are rife -- fueling tensions and mistrust," Guterres said. He said that the globe has just endured a decade of deadly heat and the top ten 10 hottest years on record have happened in the last 10 years, including 2024. "This is climate breakdown -- in real time," Guterres stressed. "We must exit this road to ruin -- and we have no time to lose." The UN chief urged countries to put the world on a safer path by dramatically slashing emissions, and supporting the transition to a renewable future. "It is essential and it is possible," he added. "Even in the darkest days, I've seen hope power change," Guterres said, hailing the activists raising their voices for progress, as well as the humanitarian heroes overcoming enormous obstacles to support the most vulnerable people. The UN chief said he also sees hope in developing countries fighting for financial and climate justice. He underscored that the Pact for the Future, adopted in September, "is a new push" to build peace through disarmament and prevention, reform the global financial system, and stick to the values and principles enshrined by human rights, international law and the United Nations Charter. "There are no guarantees for what's ahead in 2025. But I pledge to stand with all those who are working to forge a more peaceful, equal, stable and healthy future for all people," Guterres said. "Together, we can make 2025 a new beginning," the UN chief said. "Not as a world divided. But as nations united." We posted about the Mexico cartels during 2024. We may be posting more in 2025 after listening to President Trump talk about dismantling them. Time will tell. We can tell you this about the state of the cartels. My friend Allan Wall posted this: Its important for jobs to be created in Mexico. But what if criminal gangs are one of the biggest employers in the country? A recent study has found that, taken collectively, the Mexican drug cartels are now the fifth largest employer in Mexico. From ZME Science: Mexican cartels now boast an estimated 175,000 members, making them the fifth largest employer in Mexico, right between the grocery chain Oxxo and telecoms company America Movil. Working for a cartel means that you may be selling illegal drugs on the street, bringing someone over the border, working in one of many companies funded by laundered money and maybe others. Its a diverse operation to say the least. The cartels are the fifth largest employer because of the power of cash. No one knows for sure how many dollars go south because of cartel operations, but it's billions. It's enough to create jobs and keep a few politicians happy about their local economies. So how are we going to dismantle the cartels? It won't be easy and will require the full participation of the Mexican government. Mexico receives $65 billion in remittances and the cartels are the fifth largest employer. What a strange way to run an economy. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: Defense Visual Information Distributon Service The strong do what they can. The weak accept what they must. Thucydides Pompous, narcissistic, bellicose...great statesman?? On the surface President Trumps statements about the Panama Canal and Greenland will be pitched as someone who should not be President of the United States. For me, his rhetoric is the reason he is the incoming president, and thank God. Understand, the presidents statements are not meant solely for Panama or Greenland. They are for the consumption of the whole world. Trust me, the world is paying close attention, for they echo the themes that led to American exceptionalism. Monroe Doctrinesomething that used to be the policy of our nation. The doctrine established a sphere of influence around the United States, and warned other nations to keep clear, dont meddle in our affairs. Jingoism was the derogatory term used, but it served its purpose of keeping foreign intrigue to a minimum and protecting us from aggression. That is exactly what Trump has just relayed to our enemies and the rest of the world. What Trump said about the Panama Canal, Greenland, and many other statements concerning energy independence, tariffs and other policies, are resonating in Beijing, Moscow, Tehran, London, Paris, Riyadh, and every other capital throughout the world. Resonating in a way that the outgoing administration could only dream of. Pax Americana. I have never seen our sovereign nation try so hard to fail as I have in the last four years. As a result, the world has become a much more dangerous place. Arguably we are closer to nuclear war today then we have been since the Cuban missile crisis in the early 1960s. Our policy seemingly is one that intentionally drains our resources, while simultaneously sapping our willpower, all without any return. Many may laugh or deride the term Pax Americana, but it has been that concept (an unmatched military, coupled with an unmatched economy and a strong middle class) that has kept the world free of major global conflict since the second world war. Competitiveness. Great nations do not compete on the battlefield, but in the place of business. Great statesmen know this; they also know that after securing their nations borders, the first job of government is to set the stage for their nations economy to compete, one that is advantageous to their own national interest and not equitable outcomes. A policy of national self-interest keeps us off the battlefield, and builds the wealth and prosperity of its citizens. This is important, for as a constitutional republic, the power of America lies not with government but with its citizens. We lost this concept, and in the process our collective competitive spirit, some time ago. We began to believe the hype that we should trust in government and its unending bureaucracy. Seductive and addictive, it saps individual willpower. So many of us today prefer to be passive observers in life, and depend on a benevolent government to provide, rather than build and put faith in our own talents and skills. This leads to the last, and perhaps the most important point. The Man in the Arena. It takes a great statesman to give life to Theodore Roosevelts concept of the Man in the Arena. The man in the arena is a person who is actively engaged in their own affairs and the interests of their family. Someone with the courage of conviction, with hopes, dreams and aspirations; someone with the tenacity to overcome all obstacles, and does not run away from competition. It takes a great American statesman to recognize this concept and unleash it. Donald Trump has an instinct for this, and we are well on course to recapture that which makes America exceptional and unique in the history of the world. God Bless America. Image: Public domain. On Dec. 23, 2024 the Republican-controlled House Ethics Committee released a report on former congressman Matt Gaetz. The report alleges that Gaetz paid more than $90,000 to 12 women. One of them was allegedly under 18. Illicit drugs were also reportedly used at parties he attended. The Committee determined these payments were likely in connection with sexual activity and or drug use. Gaetz has naturally denied all wrongdoing. It had become critical for the establishment to discredit Gaetz when Donald Trump nominated him to be attorney general in Trumps second term. Gaetz had threatened to expose congressional misdeeds. He withdrew his name from consideration a week later after facing doubts over his ability to gain Senate confirmation. The Committees allegations had previously been investigated by the Biden Department of Justice. The Department of Justice declined to prosecute Gaetz because much of the information was obtained from unreliable sources. DOJ prosecutors understood that a conviction was unlikely. The ethics report relied on the same testimony the Justice Department considered unreliable. It relied on testimony from Joel Greenberg. Greenberg is currently serving 11 years in prison after being hit with a slew of charges, including falsely accusing a local political opponent of having sex with a minor. A female accuser is also serving time for making false claims of sex with minors on another person. The Justice Department had spent several years probing the allegations against Gaetz before it announced their closure of the investigation in 2022. Gaetz has threatened to retaliate by filing a privileged motion to expose every settlement paid by the Congressional Office of Compliance to cover sex-related incidents. The Office of Compliance disbursed more than $17 million over a period of 20 years 1997 to 2017. This may be only a fraction of the taxpayer money paid out. Rep. John Conyers paid a former employee $27,111.74 out of his Members Representational Allowance account to remain silent. Rep. Raul Grijalva gave $48,395 to a female employee. The Office of Compliance figure has not been updated for seven years and congressmen have many other taxpayer provided funds available to conceal their misdeeds. Members of the elite, Republican and Democrats, Conservative and Progressive, are aware of this situation. Cokie Roberts, NPR correspondent and ABC News reporter, once revealed that, every female in the press corps knew to avoid being in an elevator with Rep. John Conyers, and had apparently known this for years. She stated, You know they are so used to it. I mean, the culture of Capitol Hill for so many decades was men being bad. Three female Representatives reported how male officials indecently exposed themselves on the House floor. This is only one aspect of the widespread corruption on Capitol Hill. Members of Congress are fully aware of this corruption. Cindy McCain claimed, Epstein was hiding in plain sight. We all knew about him. We all knew what he was doing, but we had no one that was no legal aspect that would go after him. They were afraid of him. FBI possession of Epsteins video library might explain why Congress never reduces the FBIs budget. The attack on Gaetz is a classic example of what Nancy Pelosi calls the wrap-up smear. You smear somebody with falsehoods and all the rest and then you merchandise it. And then you [the press] write it, and theyll say, see its reported in the press that this this this and this. So they have that validation that the press reported the smear, and then its called the wrap-up smear. (This is exactly what theyve done to Pete Hegseth too.) Allegations that Gaetz had sex with a 17-year-old can easily be morphed into allegations of sex trafficking or pedophilia by an experienced journalist. Attacks on Gaetz will be unrelenting. Sexual indiscretions are only part of the corruption Gaetz threatens to reveal. The Deep State cannot allow this. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has claimed that When all is exposed, 98% of Washington will fall. John Dietrich is a freelance writer and the author of The Morgenthau Plan: Soviet Influence on American Postwar Policy (Algora Publishing). He has a Master of Arts Degree in International Relations from St. Marys University. He is retired from the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. He is featured on the BBCs program Things We Forgot to Remember: Morgenthau Plan and Post-War Germany. Image: Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr, unaltered. Im curious: where in the Constitution or its amendments is the taxpayers have to cough up the money to pay for congress critters sexual harassment of aides and interns clause? In the many times Ive read the Constitution, thats one that has eluded me. Recently, however, some in Congress have seen fit to start asking questions like that, including Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene: Graphic: X Screenshot In light of this decision [the release of the Matt Gaetz investigation], Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) called for the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights to disclose the names of lawmakers who have benefited from over $17 million in taxpayer funds used to quietly settle charges of harassment (sexual and other forms) in Congressional offices. In a Thursday post on X, Massie asked, Dont you think we should release the names of the Representatives? I do. In November 2017, Axios reported, Congress has paid out more than $17.2 million over the last 20 years to cover 268 settlements on Capitol Hill, according to the Office of Compliance, which was set up in 1995 under the Congressional Accountability Act. In 2002 and 2007, those tallies topped several million dollars. If the payouts totaled $17.2 million in 2017, its reasonable to assume the amount has grown significantly over the past seven years. It's more than reasonable to assume that. Its also likely the amount currently known is far, far less than the actual amount that has been paid out under the table. As with all such allegations, its important no one assume a mere accusation is evidence of guilt. Common sense, which includes knowledge of human nature, tells us we really cant believe all women. Its also important to understand people, like President-elect Trump in the Stormy Daniels case, often settle rather than deal with the distraction and potential political and employment consequences of a trial. The problem is, were talking not about private money paying settlements, but taxpayer money. Why should taxpayers be responsible for the sexual misdeeds of others? Shouldnt our elected representatives be held to a higher standard of behavior? Why are you laughing? Whats the practical, constitutional argument for using taxpayer funds for such settlements? Are we to accept them as simply part of our legislators inevitable, reasonable expenses? We elect them expecting theyre not going to be able to keep whatever is in their pants in their pants? To be sure, men and to a lesser degree women in positions of wealth and power are easy targets for sex claims of all types. Rev. Billy Graham, for example, was careful never to be in the presence of women without witnesses, and he, to my knowledge, never had to fend off such accusations, but apparently our representatives arent so circumspect. Graphic: X Screenshot In the spirit of physician, heal thyself, perhaps the Congress could set up rules, even laws, that require each and every allegation of sexual misconduct implicating government property and/or time, be fully, independently investigated and the results made public. If innocent, there obviously would be no payout. If guilty, it would be up to the congressman or senator, not the taxpayers, to settle up, assuming the offense didnt rise to the level of a crime, but thats another issue. Because each house sets the rules that regulate behavior and can expel or refuse to seat members for violations of those rules, they could also establish hard and fast consequences for guilt. He said/she said situations are difficult, but its for that reason we have competent, independent and transparent investigations. Requiring members of Congress to pay for their own sexual misdeeds would not only save taxpayer money, it might tend to moderate the sexual impulses that tend to manifest in the wealthy and powerful. Congressional aids and interns might find that a good thing. It should go without saying that what our elected representatives do when theyre not working and when theyre not in their offices or related properties is absolutely their responsibility. But again, House and Senate rules, or even a federal law requiring investigation and reporting of all such incidents would tend to reduce their number. And no, this would not require the establishment of another huge federal bureaucracy like the Federal Bureau of Congressional Horndog Investigation (FBCHI), as entertaining as the inevitable TV series might be. There might be an already established agency with a professional investigator or two who might be pressed into service, unless, of course, the sheer volume of complaints is so high a FBCHI is the only recourse. Currently thats 435 representatives and 100 senators, so maybe Hollywood might begin to think about casting It looks like DOGE is going to be busier than they thought, and Congress might have fewer futureahem--distractions. On a different subject, if you are not already a subscriber, you may not know that weve implemented something new: A weekly newsletter with unique content from our editors for subscribers only. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. The hacking of US telecom infrastructure from China is one of the main topics on the desk of officials. The Wall Streets report brought the situation to public attention in October. However, the FBI has been investigating it for some time. AT&T and Verizon are two of the carriers affected by the Salt Typhoon attack. Last week, the US government raised the number of carriers breached during the campaign to nine. Most of the names are secret, but it is confirmed that AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen are on the list. A report from weeks ago suggested that T-Mobile may also have been affected. But the carrier quickly denied this. Later reports even revealed that T-Mobile managed to stop an attempted attack on its network before it came to fruition. Official statements from AT&T and Verizon regarding the Salt Typhoon hack campaign In the midst of the Salt Typhoon group attacks, both AT&T and Verizon have issued official statements to try to reassure their customers. Although both admit their networks were compromised, they say they already eliminated the suspicious activity. Starting with Verizon, their statement reads as follows: We have not detected threat actor activity in Verizons network for some time, and after considerable work addressing this incident, we can report that Verizon has contained the activities associated with this particular incident. On the other hand, AT&T says that it detects no activity by nation-state actors in our networks at this time. Based on our current investigation of this attack, the Peoples Republic of China targeted a small number of individuals of foreign intelligence interest. In the relatively few instances in which an individuals information was impacted, we have complied with our notification obligations in cooperation with law enforcement, the carrier added. One million customers impacted A previous report said that the attack had an impact on about one million AT&T and Verizon customers. At the time, the source claimed that most people still hadnt been properly notified about what happened. Now, both carriers are publicly addressing the incident in an attempt to ease tensions. Google has finally made its Pixel Watch Performance Loop band available on Amazon. It suggests that Google wants to make its Pixel Watch accessories more accessible. The Mountain View giant announced the band at the end of November. It works with the Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3. It seems like Google designed the new Performance Loop band with fitness enthusiasts in mind. Google says this band makes the Pixel Watch 3 your new run buddy. This band is made of recycled polyester, nylon, and elastane yarns with durable stainless steel lugs. It features a micro-adjustable design that offers the right amount of stretch during workouts. While theres no official water-resistance rating for the band, Google describes it as workout-friendly. Pixel Watch Performance Loop band is now available on Amazon You can find the Performance Loop band on Amazon in three of its four color options for the 41mm size. The colors listed are Peony (Polished Silver Stainless Steel lugs), Porcelain (Silver), and Wintergreen (Champagne Gold). Its fourth color, Obsidian (Matte Black), isnt currently available. The 45mm version of the band isnt even available on Amazon right now. However, the 41mm model fits a wrist size between 137-203 mm, and the 45 fits wrists from 140-215 mm. Both are made from recycled materials with adjustable designs for a secure, personalized fit. So, if youre searching for a stylish and functional band to match your active lifestyle, visit Amazon and purchase the new Performance Loop band. Google expands retail access for select Pixel Watch bands Notably, Google has historically limited some of its watch bands to sales through the Google Store. Only five of the 10 bands currently offered for the Pixel Watch lineup are available for purchase at various retailers. These are the Performance Loop band, Active Sport band, Pixel Watch Woven band, Pixel Watch Active band, and Pixel Watch Crafted Leather band. The remaining five bands are only available through the Google Store. These are the Pixel Watch Stretch Band, Pixel Watch Two-Tone Leather Band, Pixel Watch Metal Mesh Band, Pixel Watch Metal Slim Band, and Pixel Watch Metal Links Band. The Samsung Galaxy A56 specs have just surfaced along with the phones expected price tag. We exclusively shared the design of this smartphone not long ago, and we also knew that 45W charging will be supported. The Samsung Galaxy A56 specs and price tag surface Well, a tipster that goes by TheGalox_ on X aka Anthony, has just shared plenty of spec details. According to the information, the Exynos 1580 will fuel the device. That is in line with a previous report. The phone will also include a fullHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. That will be a Dynamic AMOLED panel by the way. A 5,000mAh battery is also mentioned by the source, as is 45W wired charging which was revealed via a recent certification listing. The phone will allegedly include 50-megapixel, 12-megapixel, and 5-megapixel cameras on its back. The 50-megapixel one will be its main snapper, while the 12-megapixel one will likely be the ultrawide camera. A 12-megapixel shooter will sit on the front side. The source also claims that the Galaxy A56 will arrive in 8GB and 12GB RAM variants, with 128GB and 256GB of storage. Were not sure if these storage options will be tied to RAM options, or will you be able to get an 8GB RAM model with more storage. Chances are youll be limited to 128GB, though. This phone will be made out of aluminum and glass It was also mentioned that the device will combine metal and glass in its build, which was to be expected. Samsung will use aluminum for the frame of the device, the same as it did for its predecessor. The source claims that the Galaxy A56 will start at 439 in the UK. That likely means that the phones price tag in the US will be around $550. Were only guessing, though. The Samsung Galaxy A55 dropped in March 2024, so we may be in for quite a wait before the Galaxy A56 arrives. It remains to be seen if Samsung changed up its release cycle or not. One thing is for sure, we already have plenty of information about this phone. Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday exchanged New Year greetings with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to Putin and the Russian people. Xi said that 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic relations, a new significant milestone in the bilateral relationship. Looking back on the extraordinary journey in the past 75 years, China-Russia relations have grown more mature and stable, he said. In face of accelerating transformation unseen in a century and a volatile international landscape, China and Russia always move forward hand in hand along the right path of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party, Xi said. Over the past year, the two heads of state held three meetings in Beijing, Astana, and Kazan, and maintained communication through phone calls, exchanges of letters, and other means, Xi said, adding that they had candid exchanges of views and reached broad consensus on bilateral relations and major international and regional issues of common concern. The political mutual trust and strategic coordination between the two sides have been advancing toward higher levels under the strategic guidance of the two leaders, he added. Practical cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible outcomes, such as the completion of the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline, and the successful launch of the China-Russia Years of Culture has fostered a closer bond connecting the two peoples through generations, Xi said. China and Russia also support each other as chairs of the BRICS mechanism and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, contributing significantly to solidarity and cooperation among the Global South, he added. Noting that 2025 marks the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period and the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, Xi said that no matter how the international landscape evolves, China remains committed to deepening comprehensive reforms, advancing Chinese modernization, and promoting global peace and development. Xi also expressed confidence that China-Russia cooperation in various fields would continue to create new opportunities for growth. The Chinese president voiced readiness to maintain close exchanges with Putin and keep China-Russia cooperation on the right course so as to continue consolidating and deepening China-Russia ties featuring permanent good-neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation, injecting strong momentum into the development and modernization of the two countries, and contributing to the well-being of the two peoples and safeguarding international fairness and justice. Londons City Hall has said it is monitoring the weather ahead of the citys New Years Eve celebrations after some of Edinburghs Hogmanay festivities were cancelled due to bad weather. Almost every part of the country is covered by at least one of the multiple Met Office weather warnings between Monday and Wednesday. A yellow weather warning of heavy rain and snow is currently in force across most of Scotland for Monday and Tuesday, while an amber warning for rain is in place for an area around Inverness on Tuesday. Stormy conditions are expected to spread to the rest of the UK on New Years Eve, with yellow warnings for wind and rain in place for parts of England, Northern Ireland and Wales. On Monday afternoon, organisers announced outdoor events at Edinburghs Hogmanay celebrations on Monday and Tuesday would be cancelled, including the street party and concert in Princes Street Gardens due to be headlined by Scottish band Texas and the midnight fireworks. A spokesperson for Edinburghs Hogmanay said: Due to ongoing high winds and inclement weather in Edinburgh city centre, we regret to announce that outdoor events scheduled for Monday and December 31 are unable to go ahead on the grounds of public safety. The cancellation includes tonights Night Afore Disco Party in West Princes Street Gardens and, on December 31, Edinburghs Hogmanay Street Party, Concert in the Gardens and the midnight fireworks from Edinburgh Castle. We have been unable to continue with preparations and necessary set-up for Edinburghs Hogmanay outdoor events due to extreme weather and forecast conditions. Therefore, for safety reasons, we, along with our event partners, have taken the difficult decision to cancel all outdoor events. The spokesperson said indoor events are continuing as planned. Preparations continue for the New Years Eve fireworks display in central London (Jonathan Brady/PA) It is understood there are currently no plans to cancel any New Years Eve events in London, but a spokesperson for the mayor confirmed local authorities were continuing to monitor the weather forecast closely. On New Years Eve, delays to all types of transport are likely as strong winds persist and may reach speeds of up to 70mph in England and Northern Ireland, the Met Office has warned. A yellow warning for rain and snow is in place across Scotland until midnight on Wednesday, while an amber warning for rain comes into force for Moray and Highland first thing on Tuesday until 5pm. Aviemore and nearby areas in the Highlands are also bracing for extensive river flooding on Tuesday morning, with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) issuing a rare severe flood warning of danger to life after a night of continuous rain. The Forth Road Bridge was closed to double decker buses due to high winds on Tuesday morning, while snow gates were closed on the A939 between Tomintoul and Cock Bridge. CalMac Ferries said several services on the west coast of Scotland had been cancelled with others subject to disruption. (PA Graphics) Further south, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said the 2.15am ferry between Heysham and Douglas had been cancelled with later departures in both directions at risk. The A66 in Cumbria and North Yorkshire was closed in both directions to high-sided vehicles. Parts of northern England are covered by a yellow warning for wind from 7am until 11pm on New Years Eve, with a separate wind warning covering Northern Ireland from 6am until 2pm. A yellow warning for snow will be in place from 5am until midnight in Orkney and Shetland. A 24-hour yellow warning for rain will also come into force across much of Wales and north-west England from 6pm on Tuesday. Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said: It will be a tricky couple of days and a wet and windy spell for many up into the new year. Were encouraging anyone who is planning to travel to keep up to date with the weather forecast and news from their local authorities. The new year will be off to a turbulent start with separate weather warnings in place for wind and rain on January 1. Winds of up to 60mph are forecast across much of England and Wales all day on Wednesday, with gusts of 75mph likely around coastal areas and hills, according to the Met Office. Downing Street insisted Sir Keir Starmer was running an unashamedly pro-growth government after Elon Musk lashed out at his policies. Tesla boss Mr Musk said very few companies would be willing to put money into the UK under the current administration. Mr Musk, a close ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, was responding to calls to build a new plant for his electric cars in Scotland. Very few companies will be willing to invest in the UK with the current administration Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 29, 2024 Downing Street rejected Mr Musks assessment of the Governments policies, but sought to avoid being drawn into a public spat with the owner of the X social media site and a member of Mr Trumps inner circle. The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Im not going to kind of get into commentary on individual comments, but if you look at whats happened since the election, youve seen the 63 billion of additional investment from the investment summit. Youve seen the Government respond to some of the businesses key concerns in the UK, which is lack of stability, and the Governments brought back that stability, both politically and economically. The spokesman said the Government has taken an unashamedly pro-growth and pro-business approach. Elon Musks relationship with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, pictured, and the Labour government is rocky (Henry Nicholls/PA) Writing on X, Mr Musk said: Very few companies will be willing to invest in the UK with the current administration. Mr Musk is rumoured to be considering a major donation to Nigel Farages Reform UK. He met both Mr Farage and Reforms treasurer Nick Candy at Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort earlier this month. The tech entrepreneurs relationship with Sir Keir and the Labour government is rocky. In September, the Tesla and SpaceX boss hit out at the UK after it was reported he had not been invited to a major investment summit because of his social media activities during the summer riots. Elon Musk, centre, met Reform UKs Nigel Farage and Nick Candy at Mar-A-Lago, the Florida home of US President-elect Donald Trump (Stuart Mitchell/Reform UK/PA) Mr Musk said: I dont think anyone should go to the UK when theyre releasing convicted paedophiles in order to imprison people for social media posts. During the unrest over the summer, the billionaire had engaged with posts by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, suggested that civil war in the UK was inevitable, and retweeted a fake Daily Telegraph headline suggesting rioters would be sent to detention camps in the Falkland Islands. While Rishi Sunak was in No 10, Mr Musk was guest of honour at an AI safety summit and took part in an in conversation event with the then-prime minister. Broadcasting veteran Jackie Bird has said she is thrilled and absolutely honoured to be made an MBE. The journalist, who was the face of BBC Scotland News for three decades, is being recognised for her services to broadcasting and charities. The 62-year-old has been presenting BBC Scotlands Children In Need show for years and has been the president of the National Trust for Scotland since 2019. She said protecting Scotlands heritage and wild places is a subject close to my heart. She was a regular on TV screens across the country as a presenter on Reporting Scotland until she stepped down in 2019. For years, she brought in the bells with Scots as she presented the Hogmanay programme. Reacting to her own new year honour, Ms Bird told the PA news agency she did not think she was the sort of person to get such an award. The broadcaster, who was born in Bellshill in North Lanarkshire and grew up in a working-class community in Hamilton, described being made an MBE as an absolute honour and said she was excited to bring her 80-year-old parents to Buckingham Palace. Jackie Bird became president of the National Trust of Scotland after leaving the BBC (National Trust for Scotland/PA) Im thrilled, she said, absolutely surprised and thrilled. My first thought was, I can take my mum and dad to Buckingham Palace. She said she did not know she had been nominated for the award until she received a letter from the UK Government. You get a letter and it says its from the Cabinet Office, she said. And you think, Cabinet Office, what have I done wrong? And then you open it and you think, Wow. The journalist described the honour as an award from your country and said it doesnt get much better than that. Jackie Bird brought in the bells with thousands of Scots for years on BBC Scotlands Hogmanay Live (BBC Scotland/PA) She added: I dont have a great privileged upbringing or anything like that. I was born and brought up in a council house, my father a janitor, my mother worked in an old persons home. So Im not the sort of person that I would have expected to get something like this. Its just an absolute honour. She added: Hogmanay is a time thats particularly close to my heart, so thats a nice Hogmanay surprise, a nice Happy New Year gift. Hundreds of people have taken part in a vigil in Dublin to show support for Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza. Members of the Irish press gathered for the Irish Palestine Solidarity Campaign New Years Eve vigil at the Hapenny Bridge in protest over the killing of journalists by Israeli forces. It has been reported by the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate that more than 190 journalists have been killed by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) since the war in Gaza began. Members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) lined the bridge while a currach with Irish and Palestinian flags rowed along the River Liffey. NUJ members hold a vigil on Dublins Hapenny Bridge (Niall Carson/PA) RTE education correspondent Emma OKelly said: As NUJ members, we believe it is really important to gather and openly express solidarity and support for journalists working in Gaza, who are under attack and being killed by Israel. Everyone who is killed is a tragedy but the problem with journalism is that if you kill journalists, you are also killing the truth and preventing a story from getting out. That is why we feel it is incumbent on us to be here and stand up for our sisters and brothers who are working in Gaza and being killed for doing their job. We are also very concerned that Israel is not letting international media in to Gaza. Again, this all contributes to the stifling of the really important story. We need journalists in there, we need journalists to be allowed to report the truth freely, and this is not happening. Inspector Morse and Lewis actor Kevin Whately paid tribute to charity workers as he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours. The Northumberland-born actor, 73, rose to fame playing John Thaws right-hand man Lewis in detective drama Inspector Morse. He has been recognised for services to drama and to charity. TV series Inspector Morse stars John Thaw and Kevin Whately, who plays Sgt Lewis (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) In a statement to the PA news agency, he said: I am grateful and delighted to be given this award, and I appreciate that actors can sometimes help to raise awareness and money for charities, but the full-time charity workers dedicate their lives to their causes, and every one of them deserves a medal. Whately began acting at the age of four and it remained a passion throughout school, alongside a short-lived desire to be a doctor. He reportedly went into accountancy for three years, but later trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama. His TV debut came in a 1979 episode of Shoestring, which was later followed by a stint on ITV soap Coronation Street. His big break came in 1983 when he landed the role of Neville in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, the Ian La Frenais and Dick Clement comedy drama which told the story of a group of British workmen escaping 1980s unemployment to make a living in Germany. In 1987, he made his first appearance as Sgt Robert Lewis in Inspector Morse and has since appeared in Peak Practice, the TV dramas Trip Trap, Gobble and The Brokers Man, as well as Oscar-winning drama The English Patient. Other projects include Paranoid, Silent Cry, Murder In Mind, Purely Belter, Promoted To Glory and The Children. Kevin Whately with the stars of Auf Wiedersehen, Pet (BBC/PA) From 2006, he took centre stage in the Inspector Morse spin-off, ITVs Lewis, which also featured actor Laurence Fox as James Hathaway. Set five years after the death of his long-term partner Morse, Lewis found himself teamed up with a much younger partner, and reporting to a new boss in the form of Chief Superintendent Jean Innocent (Rebecca Front). In November 2015, it was announced that Lewis would be coming to an end as Whately and Fox bowed out of the popular crime drama. During his career, Whately has supported many charities including acting as a trustee for the Wavendon Foundation, which supports creation and education in the performing arts. He is also an ambassador for Action For Children, which supports vulnerable children in the UK. He is also a supporter of global childrens charity Plan International. The actor has previously spoken about the challenges his mother experienced after being diagnosed with dementia in a campaign for Alzheimers Society, for which he is an ambassador. Jazz musician Dr Linley Hamilton has told of the special feeling of being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the New Year Honours. The veteran trumpet player has been a staple of the music scene in Northern Ireland for decades while also forging a career as a university lecturer and broadcaster. He is recognised for services to the music industry in Northern Ireland. The 59-year-old said he was shocked when he received the letter informing him of the honour. He said: I am very, very grateful because I know these things happen because people have put you forward because they think you have made a difference to their careers and lives. I guess, although Im known as a performer, Ive had a diverse career over 40 years. I guess Ive touched different aspects of the community in that time, so Im just very grateful. It is an honour not just for me, but also for anybody Ive worked with and people that I still mentor now. Looking back over his career, he said: Ive been a performer for decades, Ive a number of albums out. I was involved in setting up a youth music charity for about 14 years. I was involved in an agency which allowed original artists to form cover bands to finance their original career. Those are probably some of the big things and then obviously my impact with the jazz career from my connections with the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra, and this very long jazz career which has taken me everywhere. Mr Hamilton, who lectures at Ulster University, said it is important to him to help the next generation of young musicians coming out of Northern Ireland. Linley Hamilton is a director of Magys Farm in the Dromara hills (Jonathan McCambridge/PA) He said: Being in a performance situation with other bands, bringing younger players through, teaching them to not make the same playing mistakes that you have made, giving them a quicker way to develop. The goal is when they go way past you, that is something Im always excited about. He added: Ive been playing trumpet for 51 years and I guess I havent had time to stop and think. When something like this happens, you stop and think I guess Ive done a fair bit. But its not about that, its about the interaction with the people. It is a special feeling. Despite his decades in the industry, Mr Hamilton said he has no intention of slowing down and has recently fulfilled an ambition by beginning to learn to play piano at a higher level. He is also a director of Magys Farm, a jazz venue at his home in the Dromara hills which hosts intimate gigs by performers from across the world. Liverpool have rejected Real Madrids first expression of interest in signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to reports. The 26-year-olds future is set to be the subject of fevered speculation with his current Anfield deal due to expire in the summer. And the Spanish giants appear to have tried testing Liverpools resolve by submitting an initial enquiry about the right-back, who could in theory leave for free in six months time. Trent Alexander-Arnold faces increasing speculation over his future (Adam Davy/PA) Liverpool, who have made no secret of their desire to tie Alexander-Arnold to a new deal, are said to have made clear the player is not for sale. Alexander-Arnold has not expressed a desire to leave Anfield but Liverpool face a hectic summer of negotiations, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also due to see their current deals expire. And Reals move appears to be a calculated one, given that his current contractual situation allows Alexander-Arnold to sign a pre-contractual agreement with another club from January 1. According to former Liverpool striker Michael Owen, there is an air of inevitability about the timing of Reals approach. The very fact that Real Madrid have now made their intentions clear towards signing Trent Alexander Arnold leads me to believe that its only a matter of time before he signs for them, Owen wrote on X. If he was going to sign a contract extension, Madrid wouldnt have officially made their move. The PA news agency has contacted Liverpool for comment. Londons New Years Eve fireworks event will go ahead at midnight despite weather concerns across the UK, Sir Sadiq Khan confirmed. Much of the country faces heavy rain and strong winds, and even snow in some parts, leading to widespread disruption. With weather warnings in place, many planned December 31 events have been cancelled, but the capitals fireworks display will proceed as scheduled to mark the start of 2025. (PA Graphics) London Mayor Sir Sadiq told the PA news agency: Im really excited about the London New Years Eve fireworks, the biggest fireworks taking place anywhere across Europe. Hundreds of thousands of fireworks, great light display but also a great soundtrack tonight as well. The Met Office has issued numerous weather warnings across the country, with almost every region affected between Monday and Wednesday. Yellow warnings for wind have been issued for parts of central and southern Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland, with gusts expected to reach up to 70mph. A yellow warning for snow and rain initially covered most of Scotland until midnight, which the Met Office said may bring significant disruption in the build-up to New Year, but it was later revised to cover the Highlands and Moray only, with the warning extended until 4am. Edinburghs Hogmanay celebrations, which include a street party and fireworks, have been cancelled due to safety concerns. Fireworks displays in Blackpool, Newcastle, Ripon in North Yorkshire, and the Isle of Wight have all been axed. Forecasters say the high winds and rain may also cause flooding, particularly in the Midlands and Pennines, with the Environment Agency urging people to stay away from swollen rivers and avoid driving through floodwater. In the Highlands, flooding has forced the closure of the A9 at Tomich. The Far North Line was also shut down temporarily, while rail services between Dingwall and Inverness were halted due to flooding. Forecasters warn of possible blizzard conditions, particularly over high ground in Sutherland and Caithness. Snow is expected to fall heavily over the Highlands, with 10-20cm accumulating above 150-200 metres. The new year will be off to a turbulent start with weather warnings in place for wind, rain and snow on January 1. Winds of up to 60mph are forecast across much of England and Wales all day on Wednesday, with gusts of 75mph likely around coastal areas and hills, according to the Met Office. Isla Bryson, a rapist who was being held in an all-female jail but has since been moved, is one of almost 300 transgender prisoners - Andrew Milligan/PA Almost two thirds of transgender prisoners who identify as female are convicted sex offenders, it has been revealed. Out of the 245 trans women inmates, who are legally recognised as male, a total of 151, or 62 per cent, had committed at least one sexual offence. Official figures showed that the number of prisoners who identify as transgender but do not have a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) rose by almost 10 per cent to 295 in 2024. New rules mean that trans prisoners who identify as women but have male genitalia or those convicted of violent sexual offences cannot be held in female jails, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Isla Bryson began identifying as a trans woman while on remand accused of two rapes - PA The move followed the high-profile case of Isla Bryson, who began identifying as a trans woman while on remand accused of two rapes. After being found guilty in February 2023 and jailed for eight years, Bryson was initially sent to the all-female Cornton Vale prison in Scotland. But the case sparked public outrage and Bryson was later moved to a male prison. Official figures also revealed that there were 50 prisoners who identified as trans but reported their legal gender as female, an increase of 13.6 per cent from 2023. Data from the Ministry of Justice also revealed there were 10 prisoners who had been issued with a full GRC meaning that they have legally changed their gender under the Gender Recognition Act. It was not clear where these inmates were held within the prison estate. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: Well over 90 per cent of transgender women in custody are held in the mens estate and those whove been convicted of sexual or violent offences and/or who retain male genitalia cannot be held in a womens prison unless in truly exceptional circumstances. John Howard with the then US president, George W Bush, in the Rose Garden at the White House in June 2004. Photograph: Mark Wilson/Getty Images The Howard government avoided disclosing that it had sent military forces to the Middle East months before authorising Australias official involvement in the Iraq war in 2003, cabinet records show. Cabinet documents from 2003 and 2004 released by the National Archives contain the first confirmation of what has been widely discussed in the decades since: the government deployed forces well before officially authorising Australias involvement in the war on 18 March 2003. Public as of 1 January under the law that lifts the seal on all but the most sensitive cabinet records after 20 years, the 2004 documents show how determined the government was to keep the matter secret. Records from the year before, made public belatedly in March this year after they went missing and were omitted from last years 1 January release, confirmed that forces were sent three months earlier than the government would publicly admit. The national security committee (NSC) met on 10 February 2004 ahead of the government releasing a public version of Defences review of the Iraq operations. It was concerned to ensure the advance deployment was not disclosed. In a minute from the meeting, the NSC noted departmental heads had warned the committee should consider the specific issue of public handling of when ADF action in Iraq commenced. The records show the NSC authorised the forward deployment of forces to the Middle East on 10 January 2003 and had been planning for it as early as August 2002. Records show the NSC agreed to give collective authority to approve specific forward deployments of ADF elements from a list which had been approved in meetings on 26 August and 4 December 2002. Related: Eyes on the poll: five themes that will mark Australias politics in an election year On 10 January 2003 the foreign affairs minister, Alexander Downer, gave an oral briefing on the UN-led search for weapons of mass destruction which included the admission that there was no confidence that the inspection process would uncover clear evidence of continuing Iraqi weapons of mass destruction programmes. But the government and its allies remained convinced. There was no question of us altering our policy, John Howard told Guardian Australia in December, in relation to realising the weapons were not there. We just had to hope that, as time went by, we would discover the stockpiles. And we werent just dependent on this one single announcement from the Americans. The absence of weapons was not confirmed publicly until 2004, when the US Senate and then the CIA published reports finding no evidence. Speaking last month, Howard said he was disappointed but not surprised. That was a blow, Howard said. I still tenaciously maintain the decision [to deploy] was taken in good faith. We never thought for a moment Australia would pull out of the reconstruction. Definitely not. The 10 February 2004 record reveals the government resolved to emphasise concern about weapons in its public messaging. The committee also noted the importance of highlighting in the governments public remarks that Iraq had failed to account for significant quantities of weapons of mass destruction that had been documented by the previous UN inspection process, the NSC minute said. Although Howard cited the presence and potential of weapons as a key justification for joining the war in his 18 March 2003 announcement, the archives cabinet historian, UNSW associate professor David Lee, said it was never the main reason. The balance of evidence weve seen from the cabinet records from 2003 and 2004 indicate that weapons of mass destruction is not the casus belli the cause of war for Australia, but rather Australias desire to strengthen the US alliance, Lee said. He said Howard had been determined to do more to boost the alliance than his predecessors Paul Keating and Bob Hawke had done. Last year, 82 records were found to be missing, including what turned out to be 14 documents on the Iraq conflict, 13 of those from the NSC. The missing files were located and a review by former defence department secretary Dennis Richardson found the omission was not deliberate. The archives released the missing Iraq-related records on 14 March. The Iraq deployment comprised three operations Bastille, covering pre-deployment and training which transitioned to Falconer, covering combat operations until Saddam Husseins government was disarmed, and then Catalyst, through Iraqs anticipated stabilisation and recovery. Operation Catalyst began on 16 July, a 12-month commitment of up to 999 Australian personnel. The then defence minister, Robert Hill, went back to cabinet on 29 July seeking more money, explaining the cost of all operations had been underestimated by $637.9m. Related: Israels hospital attacks have put Gaza healthcare on brink of collapse, says UN The documents show there was growing unease about the cost. In its comments on the July submission, the finance department pushed back on aspects of the request. It noted that Hill was seeking retrospective funding approval for elements of Operation Catalyst. The department said the funding should be approved, then capped. Should Defence seek any further expansion or extension of Operation Catalyst, it should absorb the cost, it said bluntly. It pointedly noted rapid acquisition funds allocated initially were still unspent and that Hill was now seeking to transfer them to current operations. Finance said since the funds were claimed to be urgently needed before the troops were to deploy to Iraq, where possible any contracts that have not been delivered be cancelled and the saved funds returned to the budget. It tallied the cost of all other current operations in Afghanistan, Bougainville and Solomon Islands and the border-protection operation Relex off northern Australia, warning any contemplation of extending the Iraq contribution further should have regard to what had already been spent. But later that year, cabinet was turning its focus to the commercial opportunities for Australia in a post-Saddam Iraq, especially the lucrative wheat trade, which would become the subject of international controversy by 2005. This article was amended on 1 January 2025 to correct the spelling and rank of Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston Power and communication lines are seen on a dark street in San Juan, Puerto Rico, after a major power outage hit the island on Tuesday. Photograph: Ricardo Arduengo/AFP/Getty Images More than half of Puerto Rico remained without electricity early on Wednesday after a sweeping power outage on New Years Eve. Luma Energy, the private energy company primarily supplying power to the island, reported as of 10.45am on Tuesday morning that only 13.5% of the US territorys customers had power. As of 11pm, power had been restored to 48% of customers, Luma said in an update late on Tuesday. It had earlier said it believed a failure in an underground line was responsible for the outage and estimated it would take between 24 and 48 hours to restore power. Puerto Ricos governor, Pedro Pierluisi, posted on X that his office was in contact with Luma and demanding answers and solutions from the company. He also said he had been in contact with US President Joe Biden and energy secretary Jennifer Granholm during the day. Jeanette Ortiz, who lives in San Juan, was planning to invite a number of family members to her home to celebrate the new year. Ortizs plans were derailed, but the back-up generator at her home is helping her and her family power through the blackout to celebrate the end of 2024. With the generator, we cant use a stove, a blower, a microwave, things like that, Ortiz told the Guardian. Some of her family members, who live in a not-so-safe neighborhood, might have to leave their festivities early to head home, Ortiz added, to avoid traversing through dark roads with no working lights. Were closing the year with a golden seal with this blackout, Ortiz said. The weather on Tuesday was cooler than most days, she added, so the lack of air conditioning has not been as bad as during previous blackouts. Puerto Ricans have been accustomed to frequent blackouts, which have worsened after Hurricane Maria in 2017 severely damaged the island. There was another blackout in June affecting about 350,000 customers on the island. The New Years Eve outage appears to be significantly bigger than the previous blackout. Jenaro Abraham, an associate professor at Gonzaga University and a member of the social democratic Puerto Rican Independence party, has family members living on the island. Its been a very tough few years for Puerto Ricans, and these are some of the few moments Puerto Ricans can escape from reality and be with family and friends and be thankful for all the wonderful things you still have and then all of a sudden the blackout happens, Abraham said. The blackouts and the islands power grid problems have also become a source of political tension for Puerto Ricans. Abraham said: This emanates from a structural crisis that Puerto Rico is experiencing from US colonial rule. In 2016, an Obama-era federal law instituted significant changes for Puerto Rico to address the islands crippling debt. The Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (Promesa) board, in charge of policy changes on the island, recommended the privatization of the publicly owned electric grid, known as the Puerto Rico Power Authority (Prepa). After the 2017 hurricane took out the electric grid, the islands then governor announced the sale of Prepa and the privatization the energy distribution network. [The privatization of Prepa] managed to prop up very predatory actors like Luma, a company based in the United States, where they basically thrive off of Puerto Ricos vulnerability, Abraham said. Its definitely a source of much contention and much anger among Puerto Ricans, because Puerto Ricans felt that they never chose Luma, they never chose the fiscal oversight board, they didnt vote for any of these things. Ortiz said: The blackouts have been worse. People have been angry for a while now. This is just what we needed to end the year. The incoming governor, Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon, who is set to be sworn in on 2 January, plans to name an energy czar to review the contract with Luma and search for another power grid operator, per the Associated Press. King Charles III attends the Christmas Morning Service at St Mary Magdalene Church on December 25, 2024 in Sandringham, Norfolk - Mark Cuthbert/UK Press As for many others last week, part of my Christmas was the Kings annual message to the nation. It is regarded as a quaint tradition by many (certainly not everyone) but it should also remind us how lucky we are to have a monarch in these troubled times rather than a showboating politician as our head of state. Todays world is full of turmoil, anger and anxiousness. Social media platforms host extremist commentators, disinformation, groomers and explicit content. These platforms are slowly but surely undermining trust in our institutions. Bit by bit, if we choose to be nudged, we can find ourselves in a whole new world of conspiracy theories. There is a storm out there and in these times we need, as will our children, a steady reference point to navigate by: a guiding light in the storm. Sadly, as we can see across Europe, the political classes by a combination of their own actions and by the growth of angry partisan politics have lost the trust of the people. Presidents everywhere are seeing their very office being questioned. In many countries where the head of state was traditionally non-executive the office has been painted in the party colours of its occupant. Such politicisation worsens the divisions in society. We are blessed, therefore, to have a King in this country who is above party politics, one who embodies the motto of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst: Serve to lead. Like his mother before him, King Charles is determined to serve all of us. His wider family including Queen Camilla and the Princess Royal diligently carry out their duties. They do so without fear or favour. In this disposable world the King and the Royals show the British people that they are valued. I support the monarchy not out of any sycophantic display or because I believe in some magic fairytale but because in the UK we need national leadership that doesnt seek political advantage or power, but instead seeks to unite us and shine a light on those that contribute to this wonderful country. It is very often the ordinary decent people of this nation who have such a light shone on them by a royal visit or honour or reception. While the reality TV world and its plastic people can often present a depressing view of our society, the King reminds us of decency and duty to each other. The UK should be thankful there is no President on these shores, especially not in these turbulent days. Alongside the loss of trust in politics is the polarisation and fragmentation of the media. Luckily in the UK we are not yet in the same place as the US where hundreds of media outlets bombard citizens with shock jocks and orange tinted presenters. We still have a solid mainstream media. I would venture to suggest that in these stormy times we need them, too: even when we disagree with them. We need The Telegraph (we will always need The Telegraph), The Guardian, The Times (sorry, editor), the BBC (even when it infuriates us), ITV and Sky. We need a mainstream that agrees on the facts while obviously interpreting them differently. We need those beacons to navigate by, not because we arent able to make up our own minds but because our enemies take advantage of social media platforms and media fragmentation to sow division. Time and time again I have witnessed Russia exploit such platforms. As the world divides and politicians continue to be seen as untrustworthy by so many, we should recognise that Britain is uniquely equipped to get through this storm. Other countries should look on with envy. So let us celebrate both institutions: the Royal family and a free, quality press. An odd pairing of institutions to put together, I know, but key to who we are in this country and welcome guiding lights in todays stormy seas. Rt Hon Ben Wallace served as Secretary of State for Defence from 2019 to 2023. Before entering politics he was an officer in the Scots Guards Many businesses were upset at Labours recent Budget - Neil Hall/Shutterstock No one should confuse reports of Downing Street sending a letter to regulators asking for ideas to boost growth for anything other than spin, designed to deflect from the growing recognition that Labour have choked off economic growth. Last Spring, the Conservative Government extended the statutory duty to give due consideration to the promotion of economic growth to more regulators and strengthened the guidance to all regulators on how to go about it. This was part of our wider Smarter Regulation programme that in the space of a year saved businesses billions in admin costs and removed and repealed more than 2,000 EU laws from our books. By contrast, as we head into 2025, many business leaders may feel like they should emulate farmers in running high profile campaigns and in speaking directly to their millions of consumers and employees about the impact that choices Labour have made are having upon their enterprises. This is the growth-and productivity-sapping consequence of the governments politicisation of every workplace and business. Tax rises, new rights for trade unions and ever more intrusive regulation the need to pay attention to politics and adapt to all of these new interventions (150 pages in the Employment Rights Bill alone) takes time and effort away from productive activity and investment. Business leaders and entrepreneurs need to understand that attacking profit-making businesses, private capital and wealth is, for Labour, a feature not a bug. Labour MPs are united in the pursuit of redistributive socialism. They kept their faith burning through long years of opposition dreaming of attacking their caricatures of wealthy country dwellers, independent schools, fat cat bosses and tradition-loving pensioners. So the most sensitive seismograph on the planet will not pick up tremors of dissent amongst Labour MPs for the simple reason that at least for now there are none. Nor is the onslaught on business going to be solved by one more meeting between a trade body and a Downing Street adviser or mid-ranking minister. These people were not in the room where Rachel Reeves cooked up her disastrous budget, and Angela Rayner wont return their calls on the Employment Rights Bill. That is not to say businesses should not engage the marginal cost of doing so is negligible but that needs to be alongside much more vocal tactics which mobilise public support. Political currency is measured in millions of potential voters. All those meetings, summits and advisory bodies are a form of bear hug from the government to hold potential critics close and thereby neuter them. Nor should anyone in business complacently assume that the worst is somehow out of the way. The devastating impacts of the union-inspired Employment Rights Bill are underappreciated in boardrooms but by the governments own admission, it brings another 5 billion cost to follow the 25 billion National Insurance hike. And unlike the NI rises and removal of inheritance tax relief for business owners and farmers, this Bill was a clear manifesto commitment, that business leaders and their advisers may wish they had paid more attention to as they were being soothed by Labours warm words about growth. Some business supporters of Labour have already publicly admitted they feel stupid and that they were duped. Many forecasters estimate the Chancellor will probably miss her own freshly fiddled fiscal rules, bringing new threats of HMRC crackdowns, windfall taxes, bank surcharges and the like back onto the table this spring. Once the scope of inheritance tax has been widened to every family business and farm, does anyone think that harmonising rates upwards will not follow? Kemi Badenoch and I, Conservatives who understand the need for a pro-enterprise, low tax, internationally competitive economy, are fighting for British businesses. Not a day goes by without us using our platforms to call out what this Labour government is doing. And whilst there are other voices out there, it is we Conservatives who are doing the hard yards in both Houses of Parliament, sweating the detail on legislation, exposing its costs, and laying amendments to mitigate where we can. Businesses feel lied to and let down by the choices that Labour have made. The big mistake now would be to believe the inevitable Downing Street spin of a reset rather than to judge the Government by its actions. As the saying goes: fool me once shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. Faced with unprecedented attacks and, for many, an existential fight to survive, 2025 needs to be the year where the whole country hears the lions of British business roar. The town square in Plains, Georgia. Photograph: Jesse Pratt Lopez/The Guardian The signs, made by hand or machine, less than a meter squared or the size of a truck, were everywhere in this small town on Monday: Thank you, Jimmy Carter. Home of Jimmy Carter. And, left over from October: Happy 100th birthday. Smiling portraits of the 39th president of the US were hanging around the town where he was born and raised at city hall, in a restaurant. Residents in the town of fewer than 600 going to work and running errands seemed unperturbed by the gaggle of TV news trucks gathered next to the railroad tracks that run through town, brought by news of Carters death on Sunday. They seemed accustomed to the attention that comes with being the home town of the longest-lived and, by many measures, most active former occupant of the White House. Related: From Panama to Palestine, Jimmy Carter refused to let his moral voice be silenced All those who spoke to the Guardian had an anecdote on hand about the man they considered a neighbor, a regular guy who just happened to have helped eradicate guinea worm in Africa, won the Nobel peace prize and led a disastrous operation to free US hostages in Iran, among many other milestones. Only a few minutes down US highway 280 from where Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, lived in town, Haley Beverly, 29, and her daughter, Rosemary, two, were picking up their mail shortly after noon. Beverlys husband, Robert, has been the pastor at Plains Methodist church, next door to their house, for eight years. Its the same church where Jimmy and Rosalynn were married, Beverly volunteered. That was on 7 July 1946, and the couple stayed married for 77 years, until Rosalynns death in 2023. We used to see them walking in front of our house, holding hands and the black Escalade [of the Secret Service] following slowly behind, she recalled. Just like a pair of sweethearts, so down to earth. The repeated scene made an impact on Beverly. Were a young couple to see a family built like that, in a pressure cooker like the presidency that was a big inspiration for us, she said. Down the road toward the center of town, the Plains mayor, Joseph Joey Recker, was unlocking the door to city hall, covering for the city clerk while she was on her lunch break. Recker, elected in May after the previous mayor had been in office for 40 years, said he and Carter were backdoor neighbors, meaning my house butts up to his property. Recker, who is 60, said his children used to play on the Carters land, shooting squirrels with a BB gun, adding: Of course, I would call the Secret Service first. Noting the reaction the anecdote caused, he said: Thats a normal way of living in Plains though it might look odd to others. The mayor is also a musician, and remembers being hired to play piano at a birthday party for Carter when he was a young man. He always made you feel like an equal, Recker said. I could talk to him like Im talking to you. The mayor of Plains said that Carter came along at a time when this nation needed honesty at the highest level. You could see he was an honest man, and thats why he got elected. Whether as President Carter or Jimmy Carter, he lived what he believed. What you see is what you get I dont know if theres a higher compliment you can pay to a man. As for his role following Carters death, Recker said, My job, as mayor, is to wrap my arms around the locals, and make sure they get to grieve including fielding media requests, like a CNN interview he was scheduled for several hours later. Across the railroad tracks from city hall, Milton Mills came out of the Plains Pharmacy, having left his bicycle unlocked in front. Now 62, Mills has lived in Plains since he was an infant. I worked for him when I was 15 or 16, he said, referring to the Carter familys peanut farm, where Mills would pack peanuts into bags during summers, to have money for school clothes. Mills, who is Black, said that Carter would talk up for Black people but it was hard to make change. When elected Georgias governor in 1970 , Carter made national headlines, memorably saying in his inaugural speech that the time for racial discrimination is over. Yet Plains itself bears lingering after-effects when it comes to race. Mills pointed in one direction across the railroad tracks and said: Thats where most white folks live. In the opposite direction: Thats the Black side. The population of Plains is about 56% Black. A retired welder, Mills said now that Carter is dead, two or three years from now, therell probably be no stores open here, and this whole towns gonna be a historic site. For decades, visitors have come to Plains, to catch a glimpse of the former presidential couple, or to see Carter teach Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist church. Over at Bonitas restaurant, the only Black-owned business in the center of town, Bonita Hightower was juggling TV interviews and catfish and meatloaf orders. Im sad/happy, she told a CNN reporter. He left so much; he left a happy path for anyone who wants to do anything great. He did it, and came back to rest and thats what youre supposed to do. Hightower repeated an anecdote she has told elsewhere, about how Carters family would order fried catfish, cheese grits and coleslaw for the former president. He couldve chosen to live anywhere, Hightower said. He chose to come back home. Just then, three elderly Black women entered the restaurant. They had driven from Lafayette, Alabama. Barbara King, 84, said she admired Carter, as the first to express his views on race relationships openly like that, referring to the former presidents opposition to segregation and discrimination. I just wanted to be here, said 77-year-old Sara Calloway, sitting across the table. I cried for President Carter yesterday, she said. He was just a plain old white man who wanted to do good nothing fancy about him. The Howard government enshrined a formal definition of marriage in law, but stopped short of wading into the question of how to define men and women. Photograph: Ezra Acayan/Getty Images John Howard was given the option of adding extra words to his 2004 Marriage Act amendment that would have limited transgender peoples ability to marry by making eligibility based on gender at birth, but chose not to pursue it. Cabinet papers from 2004, released by the National Archives, show the Howard government was advised it could go beyond the formal definition of marriage it ultimately enshrined in law, and stipulate that a couple must have been born male and female respectively to be allowed to marry. The papers confirm the governments decision to formally define marriage was driven by concern about new laws in the ACT allowing same-sex adoptions. It was also concerned about overseas same-sex marriages and anticipated pressure to recognise them in Australia. The cabinet decided on 16 February to call for advice, and less than a fortnight later the attorney generals department responded, highlighting that Western Australian and Tasmanian law also permitted same-sex adoption and raising possible ways to address this. A formal definition of marriage could be included in the Marriage Act, the department proposed in a memorandum to cabinet on 27 February 2004. It advised that a specific provision could also be inserted that overseas same-sex marriages would not be recognised. This would represent a clear statement of the existing legal position and pre-empt attempts by some couples to approach the Family Court for recognition of same-sex marriages entered into under Canadian law in particular. Howard adopted that position. However, the advice went further, suggesting the cabinet could also ringfence the institution of marriage from other perceived threats, including from transgender people. The Marriage Act could be amended to define the factors to be taken into account in determining whether a person is a man or a woman, the attorney generals department memorandum advised. The memo noted that the federal court had established a precedent for transgender marriage the previous year in a case known as Re Kevin by accepting the post-operative gender of someone who had undergone reassignment surgery. It suggested the Marriage Act could be used to counter this. If the Marriage Act were to define man and woman by reference to their sex at birth, a transsexual person who has undergone sexual reassignment would not be able to marry in their reassigned gender, the department advised. It cautioned about other implications, including that any definition relying on biological characteristics at birth is likely to preclude intersex people from marrying. Related: Eyes on the poll: five themes that will mark Australias politics in an election year It warned that if cabinet agreed to the proposed change, any marriages involving transgender people between the time of the federal court ruling and the passage of the Marriage Act amendment would be considered lawful. The announcement of a proposal to introduce legislation may be an incentive for post-operative transsexuals to marry, it said. Further, the departmental memo advised that any such definitional change relating to gender at birth would need to be restricted to the Marriage Act, given the criminal law and social security already acknowledged transgender people. It noted further potential practical issues to be overcome in relation to any reference to birth gender, including that all jurisdictions except Victoria allowed for a sex change to be registered and a new birth certificate issued. A possible alternative might be to require an addition to the declaration that parties to a marriage must make [sure] that there are no legal impediments to their marrying, the memo said. Approximately 100,000 marriages take place in Australia each year and some members of the public may find intrusive a question as to their sex at birth. On 15 April, cabinet resolved to legislate to define marriage as the union of a man and a woman to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life without adding any reference to birth gender, and to state explicitly that same-sex marriages ratified overseas would not be recognised. It also agreed to legislate, relying on the constitutional external affairs power, to not recognise overseas adoptions by same-sex couples, but did not proceed until three years later, after Australias first legal adoption by a gay couple occurred in WA in June 2007. The legislation did not pass before the Coalition lost government later that year. Related: Israels hospital attacks have put Gaza healthcare on brink of collapse, says UN Speaking in advance of the cabinet papers release, Howard said he could not recall the birth-gender proposal and did not seriously consider it. I had no intention at that time of doing other than inserting into the act the definition given by the [English courts], Howard said. In August 2004, Howard told a national marriage forum his proposal to define marriage in legislation was an opportunity that he hoped parliament would grasp within a fortnight. It is not far-fetched to imagine that if we dont change the law, there could in the future be some judicial experimentation, Howard said at the time. I dont think this is something that should be decided by the judges. If the law of this country is to change, it should be changed by the peoples representatives and by nobody else. He argued the Marriage Act amendment was not stripping rights from anyone. A week later, the amendment passed with the Labor oppositions support. It doesnt seek to take away from others in the community any rights they now have. Rather it seeks to reaffirm the pre-eminent place of marriage and the margin for marriage, if I can put it that way, that has always existed in our society, he said. Earl Spencer and Countess Spencer at Royal Ascot Ladies Day - Max Mumby/Indigo Earl Spencer has been accused of bullying his wife of 13 years after allegedly having an affair and then dumping her by text message. Princess Dianas brother is alleged to have threatened Countess Spencer just hours after the death of her father, demanding that she immediately respond to a legal claim filed by his long-term mistress, Dr Catrine Jarman. Dr Jarman is suing the Countess for the misuse of private information, accusing her of sharing her private medical information with an array of friends and employees. Legal representatives for Dr Jarman have said that the Countesss defence is defamatory of both Dr Jarman and the Earl and is untruthful. Professor Jarman and Earl Spencer did not have an affair. Their relationship started after the Earls marriage was ended in March by Countess Spencer, a representative told The Telegraph. Our client is looking at all possible forms of legal redress, they added. Earl Spencer with archaeologist Dr Catrine Jarman - Television Stills The Norwegian archaeologist has revealed in a newspaper interview that she has multiple sclerosis but said she had worked very hard indeed to keep it hidden from many people she knew, including the Earl in the early days of their relationship. In an 11-page document lodged with the High Court, the Countess has robustly defended herself against the allegations. She states that the Earl informed her by text message in March that their marriage was over, completely refusing to discuss it in person or even to provide an explanation, behaviour that she says she found both cruel and inexplicable. She says the affair became clear after she compared notes with Dr Jarmans husband, Tom Jarman, who then told her that his wife had multiple sclerosis. The Countess states that this information was volunteered by Mr Jarman because he plainly believed that it was relevant to his wifes behaviour and the fact she had embarked on an affair. It was considered a relevant and integral part of the picture, the document states. She says that at no point was it suggested to her that the diagnosis was a secret or that she should not mention it to anyone else. At around the same time, Dr Jarman was due to spend five weeks at Althorp, the Spencer family estate in Northamptonshire, to conduct a dig. While she would stay in a separate property on the estate, she was due to have dinner every evening in Althorp House itself. In the circumstances, the Countess decided to email Dr Jarman to confront her about the affair and to insist that she did not enter the family home while she and her daughter still lived there. She also called into question the appropriateness of the claimants dig continuing in such circumstances. In response, Dr Jarman is accused of threatening to sue the Countess. She also insisted that she would still be having meals in the family home for the next month and that the Earl had told her she could stay on the estate. Lady Spencer says she was left feeling helpless and confused. She says she only found out that Dr Jarman objected to her telling anyone about her medical condition when she received a letter from her solicitor in May, two weeks after she had been told about it. As a result, the Countess told no one else, she says. Despite this, Dr Jarman instructed her solicitors to hound Lady Spencer in correspondence, even complaining that she had told people about her affair with her husband, it is alleged. The Countess explained that she needed more time to respond to the claim because of a sudden deterioration in her fathers health which meant she needed to return to her family in Canada. In the hours after her fathers death, whilst Lady Spencer was heavily grieving on Vancouver Island, the claimant instructed her solicitors to demand responses from her under the threat of immediately forcing her into court in London (at the same time as a similar threat was made by Earl Spencer), the document states. Lady Spencer will refer to the bullying and highly insensitive manner in which this correspondence was orchestrated by her husband and his girlfriend. The Countess argues that in the short period of time she shared Dr Jarmans multiple sclerosis diagnosis with immediate family members or close friends and associates, it was in a way which was entirely justified and legitimate in the circumstances as she came to terms with her husbands sudden and cruel request for a divorce, the affair and the implications for herself and her daughter. In her claim form, Dr Jarman alleges that she was forced to turn down work owing to the distress caused by the leak of her private medical information She is suing for damages and seeking an injunction against Lady Spencer to prevent the further sharing of the information. The Earl, who has been married three times, announced in June that he and the Countess were divorcing. He publicly confirmed his relationship with Dr Jarman in October. Earl Spencer told the Daily Mail earlier this week that the Countess had ended their marriage, adding: The notion that I would end my marriage by text is an absurd attempt to blacken my name. Earl Spencer and archaeologist Cat Jarman at the Althorp Estate Princess Dianas brother kept a long-term mistress before breaking off the relationship with his wife of 13 years via text message, court papers reportedly allege. Countess Karen Spencer has accused Earl Spencer, her estranged husband, of likely having had an affair since 2021 with Dr Cat Jarman, a Norwegian archaeologist. Dr Jarman, 60, is suing Countess Spencer, 52, for allegedly revealing private details about her life. High Court documents, obtained by the Daily Mail newspaper, reveal how Countess Spencer accused Dr Jarman of turning all the childrens lives upside down through her immoral behaviour. An email sent by Countess Spencer to her husbands girlfriend in May of this year reads: First of all as a woman, I just have to tell you that I am so disappointed in you. Turning all of the childrens lives upside down like this is so unbelievably immoral. It continued: I think that youll find having him to deal with full-time will be much trickier than the odd five-day escape to Norfolk and a night or two in London here and there. In another email to Dr Jarman, the countess wrote: Not sure what Charles has shared with you of this, but I wont have you at Althorp while I still live here. That is a boundary I intend to hold. Its not fair to me, our daughter, or to all the staff, who are already distraught at the news of our divorce though having to serve Charles long-term mistress. Its just too much to ask. Countess Spencer married Earl Spencer in June 2011, becoming his third wife - Reuters The allegations from Countess Spencer form part of her legal defence against the privacy case brought by Dr Jarman. The defence papers claim that Earl Spencer, 60, informed his wife via text message on March 19 that their marriage was over. Having given up her life in the United States, in order to live in the middle of rural Northamptonshire and dedicate herself to sorting out the Althorp Estate business, as well having a child, the news was hideous for Lady Spencer, they read. Countess Spencer has argued her disclosures were entirely justified and legitimate on account of the way in which she was allegedly treated. Earl Spencer told the Daily Mail that his estranged wifes claims that he ended the marriage via text were an absurd attempt to blacken my name. He said: Karen ended the marriage, after endless threats to do so over the years, in early March. She asked me to confirm the end of the marriage in a text of 18 March and my reply that day was a simple acceptance of her decision. I have those texts still, and will share them in court when I clear my name. Dr Jarman similarly said that she was shocked and utterly dismayed and accused the Countess of mounting a hideous and defamatory attack on her. She added: I can understand that she finds it difficult because he moved on before she did, but the narrative that Charles, or I, did something wrong here is simply not true. I do have sympathy for her. I understand what she has lost, because it is more than her marriage and her home. But this still doesnt justify what she did. Donald Trump and Elon Musk are so close the tycoon lives at his estate, it is reported - Brandon Bell/AP Elon Musk has reportedly been living in a cottage on Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate and dropping in on dinners hosted by the president-elect. The Tesla billionaire has planted himself on Mr Trumps doorstep by staying at a property several hundred feet away from the main house at the president-elects resort complex, The New York Times reported. Mr Trump is said to have bragged to people that Mr Musk, the worlds richest man, is renting Banyan cottage one of several smaller properties available for rent on the president-elects sprawling Palm Beach estate. It is unclear how much Mr Musk will pay for the cottage, which has previously hosted former House speaker John Boeher, but the property has reportedly been rented in the past for at least $2,000 a night. An aerial view of Mar-a-Lago, where Elon Musk is said to be staying - Marco Bello/Reuters Mr Musk, who played a key role in the president-elects winning campaign and has been rewarded with an advisory role in the new administration, has allegedly used his proximity to Mr Trump to drop in on dinners, including a recent one with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The X owner injected more than $250 million into the president-elects campaign and wielded the power of his social media network to help win voters. He has since ensconced himself in Mr Trumps inner circle, attending personal meetings at the Mar-a-Lago teahouse, sitting in on phone calls with world leaders including Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, and spending hours with the president-elect in his private office, the newspaper reported. Employees from Mr Musks various businesses are also said to have played an integral role in the transition, helping to vet prospective candidates for senior administrative positions at the teams West Palm Beach headquarters. Mr Musk allegedly moved into the Mar-a-Lago cottage around election day, when he was pictured watching the votes come in alongside Mr Trumps family, and has variously been accompanied by two of his children, their nannies and one of the mothers of his children, Shivon Zilis, who worked at his brain implant company Neuralink. Other members of Mr Trumps inner circle alleged to have been put up in cottages at Mar-a-Lago since the election include JD Vance, the vice president-elect, who has reportedly been a frequent visitor to Palm Beach during the transition period. Mr Musk is said to have developed a reputation around the club for his exacting requests, such as wanting meals outside of normal kitchen hours. On Friday, in a post on Truth Social that appeared intended as a private message to Mr Musk, Mr Trump wrote: Where are you? When are you coming to the Center of the Universe, Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Years Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! DJT. Mr Musk scored another major nod of approval in recent days after Mr Trump sided with him in a row over skilled migrant visas that threatened to split his election-winning coalition. Such is Mr Musks influence, the president-elect felt compelled to dispel rumours that the tech billionaire is the real power behind the incoming administration, telling a conservatives event last week: No, hes not taking the presidency. Democratic senator John Fetterman has offered support to the Tesla billionaire - Shawn Thew/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock As co-chairman of the new Department of Government Efficiency, the Tesla and Space X boss has floated plans to fire hundreds of thousands of civil servants and close entire agencies in a bid to slash federal spending. In recent weeks, he has tapped into a surprising new wellspring of support for his ideas from centrist and Left-wing figures such as senators John Fetterman and Bernie Sanders, who have endorsed Mr Musks plans to cut government waste. Sen Fetterman, a senator from Pennsylvania, recently applauded Mr Musk for having made our economy and our nation better. Mr Musk responded that it was hard not to like the senator. Democratic senator Bernie Sanders has endorsed Mr Musks plans to cut government waste - Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty It comes as new data show Mr Musks media influence dwarfs that of his tech rivals. This year, traffic on articles about the worlds richest man was almost triple that of stories about the next nine most-read-about chief executives combined, Axios reported. Mr Musk has also wielded his influence in international affairs, repeatedly sniping at Sir Keir Starmer, the UK prime minister most recently claiming very few businesses will want to invest in Britain under the current administration. Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, used his New Years Eve address to reproach Mr Musk for calling the countrys president an anti-democratic tyrant. It comes after Mr Musk, who has enthusiastically endorsed anti-establishment parties across the West, wrote an opinion piece for a conservative newspaper hailing the hard-Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party as the countrys last spark of hope. It is you, the citizens, who will determine how things will play out in Germany in the future, Mr Scholz said in his annual speech. This will not be decided by the owners of social media. A stonemason works on a church restoration project. The Anglican Church is responsible for 45 per cent of Grade I listed buildings, many at risk of decay - STURTI Historic churches would collapse under a looming Labour tax raid, a bishop has warned. Ending the Governments 42 million annual VAT relief grant for repairing faith buildings would be devastating, according to the Bishop of Ramsbury, the Rt Rev Andrew Rumsey, the Church of Englands bishop for buildings. The Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme has run for two decades and effectively refunds VAT on repairs over 1,000 to churches, synagogues, mosques and other religious buildings. But Lisa Nandy, the Culture Secretary, has failed to back an extension to the programme, fuelling warnings that cutting the grant would threaten Britains cultural heritage and put an unbearable burden on communities. The scheme is crucial for struggling parishes, but Bishop Rumsey warned that if Ms Nandy fails to continue the fund, which is operated by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), many parishes will be unable to make up the additional 20 per cent on top of already costly repairs. Lisa Nandy, the Culture Secretary, has failed to back an extension to the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme - JONATHAN BRADY/PA Writing in The Telegraph, the bishop said that for countless building projects, its withdrawal at this stage would be a devastating blow. He wrote: The scheme has been a lifeline for the heroic volunteers who, in most places, must keep things from crumbling by their own local fundraising, and who would should it be discontinued have to add another 20 per cent to their appeal thermometers. The Anglican Church is responsible for 45 per cent of Grade I listed buildings, many at risk of decay, with Bishop Rumsey warning that a tax raid could make essential renovation impossible. National pride He pointed out that the unveiling this month of a pristinely renewed Notre-Dame de Paris, shows that restoring religious heritage can be a substantial boost to civic and national pride and is calling for the same ambition in Britain. The programme was introduced in 2001 under the last Labour government, by Gordon Brown, the then chancellor. It has since been renewed by successive coalition and Conservative administrations who deemed it value for money. But Ms Nandys refusal to discuss the programme, combined with the Chancellors planned inheritance tax raid on farms and cuts to winter fuel payments, leaves its future looking increasingly bleak. Following the Budget, it is understood that the DCMS is in the process of deciding which programmes will receive funding. The fate of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme is not expected to be announced until later in 2025. The uncertainty is already threatening the completion of a more than 2 million repair bill to the Grade II listed St Marks Church in Shelton, Stoke-on-Trent. The rector of St Marks, the Rev Phillip Jones, said that if the scheme is pulled the church would be in big trouble as finding further matched funding is extremely difficult. Marsha de Cordova, the Second Church Estates Commissioner, has joined calls for the tax relief schemes renewal - SHANE ANTHONY SINCLAIR/GETTY IMAGES He said: Unless the Government confirms that future funding, we could end up tens of thousands of pounds short. That will have huge consequences for the planned church and community activity we want to run from the building. The future of Southwark Cathedral, which on Nov 30 hosted a big cathedral knit where locals knitted blankets for the homeless, is also in jeopardy, requiring 500,000 of urgent work. In addition to worship, churches across the UK provide more than 31,000 social projects, including toddler groups, debt clinics and addiction support services. Three in five churches run food banks and more than one in five operate a community cafe offering low-cost or free meals. Earlier this year, a National Churches Trust report calculated churches provide public health services that would cost the NHS 8.2 billion to deliver. Parishes have been asked to urgently write to the Culture Secretary and their local MP to call for the fund to be extended beyond next spring. Marsha de Cordova, the Second Church Estates Commissioner, has joined calls for its renewal, telling MPs in November that churches are the cornerstone of all our communities, up and down the country, alongside their role of providing community and spiritual leadership. Without access to the Listed Places of Worship grant scheme, parishes will find it harder to fund essential repairs, and they will have to spend more time on fundraising and less time on the needs of their local communities, she said. Grant scheme provides a lifeline for heroic volunteers By the Bishop of Ramsbury, the Rt Rev Andrew Rumsey On Advent Sunday in Salisbury Cathedral, the annual service-cum-spectacle of Darkness to Light, attracting more than four thousand attendees across the weekend, began, as always, with every light in the place being extinguished. Silently sardined, we seemed to be in the belly of a colossal whale, waiting uneasily until a solitary candle flame could be picked out by the West Door, as choristers began their wintry anthems of hope and invocation. Regardless of ones belief, it was a compelling and mystical experience, highlighted by a broadcast on The One Show the following week. Whilst this Christmas finds the national church at a low ebb, its built heritage is experiencing something of a revival in interest. Books such as Peter Rosss recent Steeple Chasing: Around Britain By Church, and the increased popularity of pilgrimage as a way for curious millennials to access holy sites are indicative of this, as is the surprising uptick in Christmas churchgoing, which last year saw a 20 per cent leap in attendance: the third year of sustained growth. Christmas is either the last redoubt of cultural Christianity, or the wellspring of its renewal. In an era so uncertain of inherited beliefs, church buildings (like all works of art) allow room for manoeuvre, for personal response, especially when visited aside from formal worship. An ancient church is a consoling and wonderful thing, telling the story of its community and restoring a sense of patience, of settlement, in the face of fleeting trials. They are not, however, mere places of sanctuary from modern life, but remain incredible engines of social service and local charity, as they have been across the centuries. The Bishop of Ramsbury, the Rt Rev Andrew Rumsey, is the Church of Englands bishop for buildings There being more churches in Britain than branches of McDonalds, they feed their neighbourhoods in a multitude of ways literally so in the curation of food banks, but likewise by providing warm spaces for the elderly, after-school cafes, performances spaces, addiction clinics and toddler groups in every corner of the land. Whilst some might question putting a price on such charity, a report by the National Churches Trust this autumn calculated (using the Governments own measurement) that churches of all denominations contribute services to public health that would otherwise cost the NHS some 8.2bn to deliver. As witnessed this month by the unveiling of a pristinely renewed Notre-Dame de Paris, the restoration of our religious heritage can be a substantial boost to civic and national pride, as to the tourist economy. In facing the burden of their upkeep (the Church of England alone looks after 45 per cent of the nations Grade I listed buildings), communities are significantly aided by the Governments Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. Introduced in 2001 by Gordon Brown, the then chancellor, this enables all listed places of worship (of whatever faith tradition) to claim back VAT on their building repairs. The scheme has been a lifeline for the heroic volunteers who, in most places, must keep things from crumbling by their own local fundraising, and who would should it be discontinued have to add another 20 per cent to their appeal thermometers. The Culture Secretary is currently reviewing the scheme, which runs until March 2025: for countless building projects, its withdrawal at this stage would be a devastating blow. Places like Southwark Cathedral, which faces 500,000 of urgent capital works and was recently pictured with pews full of locals knitting blankets for homeless people. The Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme is a sign of hope for all. In fearful times, it can only be a good thing to reignite that candle. Jimmy Carter smiles during a book signing event for his book Faith: A Journey For All on 26 March 2018 in New York City. Photograph: Drew Angerer/Getty Images It was the spring of 2014 and I was at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Washington to interview Jimmy Carter. The former president had just published a new book on womens rights and was keen to make his case. The abuse of women and girls was, he believed, the worst human rights violation of the time and he was determined to issue a global call to action on the subject. He argued passionately and eloquently, rolling though a litany of abuses women and girls around the world face: rape and violence in war, trafficking, infanticide and, in his own country, an epidemic of sexual assault at universities. This is something on which Im going to continue to work with a very high degree of my priority for the rest of my life, he said. Related: He chose to come back: Jimmy Carters Georgia home town celebrates his life It was typical of a man who, more than any other US leader, showed that the crowning achievements of a career could come after having the most powerful job in the world rather than during it. And they were no small achievements: Carter was, by general consensus, a tireless campaigner for human rights, democracy and, perhaps most significantly, global public health. His Carter Foundation, set up by the former president and his wife, Rosalynn, in 1982 a year after he left the White House has worked for nearly four decades to eradicate the painful and debilitating Guinea worm disease. An estimated 3.5 million people in 20 countries were afflicted in 1986 when his foundation launched the campaign. Last year, 14 human cases were reported. Yet, even as the then 89-year-old Carter determinedly and convincingly spoke to me about his latest campaign, what stood out most was his humility and lack of ego. There we were in one of the US capitals grandest hotels with Secret Service agents stationed all around, the trappings of the office he vacated 30 years before still very much visible. But as I sat down to interview him, the peanut farmer turned president was quickly finishing up a snack of, well, nuts, before standing up to greet me warmly as if the suite were his own living room. He believed some things were more important than re-election things like integrity, respect and compassion Barack Obama By all accounts, that luxury suite was notably grander than his own living room: he famously moved back to the modest home in his childhood town of Plains, Georgia, that he built with Rosalynn. Its where our family has always lived. Its where we own our land, our home the only home weve ever owned, he said. Its where our church is, its where our friends are. Its a haven for us. That church, Maranatha Baptist, was where Carter taught Sunday school for more than three decades, into his 90s, attracting an international congregation not often seen in rural corners of the American south. If I get home at midnight on Saturday, I still teach on Sunday morning, Carter said. His undiluted devotion to Rosalynn was abundantly clear. He delighted in revealing that she was in the neighbouring half of the hotel suite as we spoke and that she had been the driving force behind his campaigning for womens rights. Looking slightly awestruck, he insisted that Rosalynn was probably the world champion of human rights now. Overblown though that assessment may have been, it spoke to Carters commitment to his wife, to whom he was married for 77 years and whom he will be buried alongside next week at that very same family home in Plains. True to his younger days of working on the family farm, Carter spoke about how he rose with the sun and would be ready for action, while exhausted younger aides were still bleary-eyed. He had been in interviews since 7am on the day we met, I was told. Later that day, he said, Rosalynn and he were planning to meet their grandson Jason, who was standing at the time for governor of Georgia in the 2014 midterm elections. (In the event, Jason lost to the Republican incumbent, Nathan Deal.) Although Carter took the decision to make his mark outside politics and often in other countries after leaving office, it was clear that the state of his home nation still mattered deeply to him. He was frank in his view that the US had a long way to go on womens rights (its an embarrassment to our country, but its not changing). And though he tried to be generous to his successor of the day, Barack Obama, it clearly rankled that he had not sought Carters advice more generally. Im not complaining Its natural for a president to call on someone whos been there more recently, he said diplomatically. Yet, with a twinkle in his eye, he added: Thats what I prefer to think, before confirming that the other presidents who succeeded him had called for his guidance. Oh yes. All of them. In the end, though, it is Obamas own tribute to Carter that ultimately seems to do a more than reasonable job of capturing the man. He believed some things were more important than re-election things like integrity, respect and compassion Whenever I had a chance to spend time with President Carter, it was clear that he didnt just profess these values. He embodied them. Largest warship of the North Korean navy is under construction at Nampo Dockyard - KCTV North Korea has unveiled a new destroyer equipped with an advanced missile system that will become the largest warship in its growing navy. State media released images of Kim Jong-un, North Koreas leader, inspecting the ship at a facility that analysts believe was the Nampho Dockyard, on the west coast of the country. The images of the unfinished vessel indicate that it will have a beam of around 50ft and is likely to be approximately 330ft from bow to stern. At more than 3,600 tonnes, it will be significantly larger than the 1,360-tonne frigate that is presently the largest in the Norths maritime armoury. A picture of the bow also reveals an empty area directly in front of the main superstructure that is expected to house vertical launch missile systems capable of firing cruise or guided missiles. The ship is likely a destroyer and the largest warship ever constructed in the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea], Joseph Dempsey, an analyst at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Seoul-based NK News. Weapons-wise, the large aperture immediately forward of the bridge would imply [plans to install a] possible vertical launching system for missiles, although he added that it remains still too early to make firm predictions about its overall capabilities. In the last year or so, Kim has indicated that he intends to step up the development and output of the domestic shipbuilding industry at the same time as strengthening the nations naval capabilities. His comments have included references to obtaining larger warships. State media released images of Kim Jong-un inspecting the new warship - KCTV The new ship comes as North Korea is growing closer to Russia following a new security pact in 2024 that committed both countries to mutual military assistance if the other was invaded. Analysts noted that the new North Korean ship looked similar to the Russian Admiral Grigorovich-class. It could be an attempt by North Korea to significantly strengthen its conventional power, including its inferior naval power as well as nuclear and missile capabilities, through cooperation with Russia, Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told South Korean media. Mr Dempsey also pointed out that Kim toured a Russian naval base and ships during a trip to the Russian far east port of Vladivostok in September 2023. State media reported on Tuesday that Kim has sent a personal letter to Vladimir Putin to mark the new year in which he hails the Russian leader as his dearest friend and comrade. In a hint that he hopes to receive even more military and economic assistance in the future, Kim also used the letter to express his willingness to design and push ahead with new projects after the two nations meaningful journey in 2024. An Amnok-class corvette of the North Korean navy fires a cruise missile - KCNA In September, during a visit to a new naval base, the North Korean leader said that as the navy was, soon to possess large surface warships and submarines which cannot be anchored at the existing facilities for mooring warships, the construction of a naval base for running the latest large warships has become a pressing task. A report by South Koreas defence intelligence agency said that there were indications that the North has started to construct a new submarine at the Sinpo naval yards. Given the greater size of the vessel in comparison to the rest of the Norths submarine fleet, the intelligence agency suggested the vessel may be nuclear-powered. As far back as 2021, Kim told a meeting of the ruling Workers Party that a nuclear submarine should be among the advanced weapons systems that had to be built. Meanwhile last year, Pyongyang announced that it intended to deter US reconnaissance flights off its coast by constantly deploying a ship loaded with new-type anti-aircraft missiles. Mr Dempsey says there appears little point in North Korea investing heavily in a bigger navy. Beyond the perceived prestige and propaganda value, it is unclear why Pyongyang would benefit from investment in larger warships, he wrote on the IISS web site in October. Historically, there has been little demonstrated will, value or experience in naval-power projection beyond the relative safety of its home waters, including reluctance to even navigate around the peninsula, meaning shipbuilding projects are typically duplicated on each coast. Hilary Benn, the then international development secretary, proposed the transfer of 2m to the Home Office budget in January 2004. Photograph: Rex/Shutterstock Tony Blairs government discussed diverting 2m earmarked to prevent conflict in Africa in order to fund a controversial pilot scheme to process and house asylum-seekers in Tanzania, newly released government files show. Under the scheme, Britain would have offered Tanzania an extra 4m in aid if it opened an asylum camp to house people claiming to be Somalian refugees while their applications to live in Britain were assessed. Hilary Benn, the then international development secretary, wrote to the then home secretary, David Blunkett, in 2004 saying the migration partnership with Tanzania was off the ground, files released to the National Archives in Kew, west London, show. As the quickest way forward, therefore, I would propose a PES transfer of 2 million from the Africa Conflict Prevention Pool to the Home Office budget, on the understanding that you with help, I hope, from Jack Straw will find the resources needed to fill the remaining shortfall, Benn wrote in January 2004. Straw, the then foreign secretary, responded, writing to Blunkett in February 2004 that he had some reservations about using ACPP funding in this way, but was willing to agree a one-off transfer. The then armed forces minister, Adam Ingram, however, wrote to Benn to say that while he agreed that the removal of refused asylum seekers should be addressed, he did not consider it appropriate to draw on the ACPP fund. Ingram wrote: In the medium and longer terms improving stability in Africa is likely to be one of the more sustainable means of reducing the flow of economic and other migrants; that is what the ACPP exists to achieve. Perhaps there are other more appropriate funding sources we should look at in this case. The 2004 asylum camp scheme put forward at a time when Blair sought to persuade voters that his government still controlled Britains borders was dropped in the face of opposition in Tanzania and criticism from the EU, with some German officials likening the proposals to concentration camps. A person outside the court where Luigi Mangione appeared for his arraignment for the killing of an insurance executive in New York, on 23 December. Photograph: John Angelillo/UPI/Rex/Shutterstock In the wake of the killing of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, and the outpouring of frustration about insurance coverage, prior authorizations have emerged as a particular roadblock in healthcare. Prior authorization requires medical providers to get an insurers approval before patients receive healthcare or medications. As a physician, prior authorization is the number one frustrating thing of practicing outpatient medicine right now, far and away, said Dr Gabriel Bosslet, a pulmonologist and professor at Indiana University School of Medicine. Related: Many believe US healthcare industry was to blame in CEO killing, poll reveals I spend more time trying to figure out how I need to get this medication approved than I do seeing the patient and making a diagnosis and writing the prescription. Originally intended to control the costs of certain medications and treatments, the frequency of prior authorization requirements has risen in recent years and they now plague common and inexpensive care. This didnt really happen five or seven years ago, Bosslet said. Miranda Yaver, assistant professor of health policy and management at the University of Pittsburgh, noted that prior authorization is something that really proliferated with the growth of managed care in the United States. One study found reforms such as setting maximum time periods for insurers to respond and standardizing requests would help give patients needed care. Several states and Washington DC have passed laws to reform prior authorization practices. A federal bill that would expedite authorizations like these for Medicare Advantage plans was also reintroduced this year in Congress. In January, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services finalized a new rule to streamline prior authorizations as a way to cut costs. Nearly one-quarter (24%) of doctors say that prior authorization has led to a serious adverse event for a patient in their care, according to a survey from the American Medical Association (AMA). Yaver interviewed a patient with severe immunodeficiency who was denied medication because her multiple infections were bad, but not yet life-threatening a mind-boggling assessment, Yaver said. The incoming Trump administration has signaled greater support for programs like Medicare Advantage, in which 99% of enrollees are required to have prior authorization. That could mean more administrative burdens, more denials and hampered access to care, Yaver said. Medical practices report an average of 43 prior authorization requests per doctor each week, the AMA survey said. Thats why more than a third (35%) employ staff whose only job is to manage prior authorizations. Even so, some requests still make it to physicians. Bosslet usually works with patients in the hospital, but once a week he sees them in a clinic. Every other clinic day, he estimates, he has to appeal denials by insurers of prior authorizations, even after the staff submits all of the necessary paperwork. Recently, that meant battling with an insurer to prescribe a common asthma treatment to a patient who has relied on the medication for more than a year. He called the number listed on the paperwork and eventually reached a person on the other end of the line who directed Bosslet to download a form buried in the insurers website. Days after submitting it, he received notice that he hadnt completed the form quickly enough. To appeal a second time, he had to call a new number, which eventually directed him to a fax number where he could send the new appeal but without giving him information on what form to use or what information was needed about the prescription. Part of the confusion is that prior authorization means something different to each insurer and each plan, with different forms, questions and process for submitting. Its like you have to learn a completely new language every time you get an appeal denied, Bosslet said. And all of this work needs to happen in addition to providers time with patients. Im trying to handle that in my clinic when I have patients scheduled, Bosslet said, adding that the whole process seems designed to get providers to give up. The system is functioning exactly as designed, to be confusing and put people in positions where they have to spend more money, he said. Bosslet continued: People are frustrated that health insurance companies make billions of dollars. Theres a lot of frustration about the fact that these institutions are taking massive amounts of money out of the healthcare system and doing it at the expense of sick people. The insurer, Wellcare, did not respond to press inquiries. When contacted the first time, an automatic message from Wellcare said to expect a response within 24 hours; when contacted three days later, the message instructed journalists to email a different media account. Bosslet sent the insurer a new form with information it requested information that was on the original prescription. That still didnt work. Im livid, Bosslet said. The first issue with the asthma prescription arose on 4 December. As of press time, the medication still hadnt been approved. It costs $31. A camp for internally displaced people in Ouallam, Niger. Jihadist violence has doubled in the 18 months since the coup, with about 1,500 deaths reported. Photograph: Issouf Sanogo/AFP/Getty On 12 December, Hadjara Zibo and her three young daughters ran to the hills from their home in Libiri as armed jihadists stormed their village in Nigers Tillaberi region, near the border with Burkina Faso and Mali. If they reached us, they could rape and kill us, says Zibo, 39, describing how they escaped amid gunfire and flames. The assault on the village left 21 people dead, houses burned and valued possessions plundered. Less than 48 hours later, another 18 people were killed, this time in Kokorou, another settlement in Tillaberi. The Nigerien junta has been struggling to contain the rising tide of jihadist attacks in the tri-border area, 18 months after it seized power. In 2021, the same Islamic militants killed Zibos husband on their farm, leaving her alone with the financial struggle of raising three children alone. They kill men in front of the women, she says, adding that many women were then forced to become jihadists wives or sex slaves. Her sister was abducted by suspected jihadists last June. I think the end is near, she says. Women face horror and humiliation, and with no help from the junta, we are left at the mercy of the jihadists. Before Nigers military seized power in July 2023, pro-Russian narratives in the country had blamed the insecurity on western alliances under the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum, despite Niger outperforming its Moscow-aligned neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso, in combating jihadists. The new military government, led by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, has leaned into anti-western sentiment, claiming they could better address extremist threats. The conflict in Niger will soon become a forgotten war, and more women and children will suffer for the juntas incompetency Nigerien analyst However, jihadist violence has escalated in the 18 months since the coup, with about 1,599 deaths reported more than double the 770 recorded under democratic rule, according to the civilian violence monitor Acled. Islamic State Sahel Province, an affiliate of the group formerly known as Isis, has claimed responsibility for recent attacks on civilians and military outposts in Tillaberi, a region where groups linked to both IS and al-Qaida are active. Women and girls are especially vulnerable, facing rape and enslavement amid escalating violence and dwindling international aid and attention. The juntas inability to counter jihadist operations, coupled with its expulsion of western media, has obscured the plight of women, according to a senior Nigerien analyst in the capital, Niamey. The media bans and expulsions of journalists have allowed propaganda to flourish, claiming military success against the insurgents and covering up attacks. With the continued censorship and expulsion of media, the conflict in Niger will soon become a forgotten war, and more women and children will suffer for the juntas incompetency, the analyst said. More than a dozen displaced women in Tillaberi told the Guardian how the extremists exploit the existing patriarchal system. The deliberate killing of male relatives and those who resist is a tactic to tighten control over women, leaving them vulnerable to further subjugation under jihadist rule, they say. Last September, when our settlement was raided, an assailant asked why my 15-year-old daughter was not married, says Mariama, 41, a widow in Tillaberi. Then the other assailant took off her clothes and raped her. At least 90 soldiers were reported to have been killed in a recent jihadist assault on Chatoumane town, according to eyewitness reports and intelligence. The Nigerien junta and Russian-backed media claimed only 10 men were lost. Experts argue that Russias focus in Niger and the Sahel is on supporting military juntas to protect client regimes, and there is no interest in combating extremism or supporting civilians. Joseph Siegel, research director at the US Department of Defenses Africa Center for Strategic Studies, calls this dynamic the great paradox of the partnerships between Sahelian juntas and Russia. Nevertheless, Niger has pledged to bolster cooperation with the military juntas in Burkina Faso and Mali by forming a new security pact, the Alliance of Sahel States. The three nations also plan to formally withdraw from the west African regional economic and political union, Ecowas. Related: Explainer: Whats behind the Niger coup? Nathaniel Powell, a researcher at Oxford Analytica, a global risk consultancy, says: While Bazoums strategy weakened jihadist recruitment in Tillaberi by offering demobilisation pathways, it did not involve negotiations with jihadist leaders, who had little interest in such talks. But the Niger junta focuses on military solutions to jihadist threats, rejecting diplomatic efforts, says Powell, who believes the juntas strategy has increased civilian casualties. In 2023, nearly 42% of Nigers 26 million people were living in poverty, with 4.4 million in immediate need of humanitarian aid. The country ranked the fourth lowest of 193 countries in the UNs latest Human Development Index. Foreign assistance makes up nearly 40% of its budget, but the coup led to international aid being cut off. The economic strain from sanctions and aid cuts has heavily affected displaced women in Niger, who face food insecurity as well as fear of attacks and sexual violence. Healthcare shortages, particularly in maternal and reproductive services, have worsened, being restricted by the junta and inaccessible in jihadist-controlled areas. Fatimatu Zahra, 21, from Tillaberi, who lost her relatives in a jihadist attack last year, struggles with the high cost and scarcity of menstrual supplies. Unable to afford pads, she uses old fabrics or leaves instead. I dont feel ashamed, Zahra says. Many women in similar situations do the same. The Nigerien military government did not respond to requests for comment. Pradeep Dissanayake used his position as leader of a cult to gain access to and control over two 12-year-old girls who were daughters of his followers, a Victorian court found. Photograph: Namning/Shutterstock A Melbourne skin doctor established a Buddhist-Christian cult and used his godlike status to rape his followers children while forcing them to give him money and send hourly text messages of praise. Pradeep Dissanayake, the founder of the Windsor-based Melbourne Medical Skin Clinic, returned from a trip to Sri Lanka in 2016 and began to preach, eventually establishing a sect that blended Buddhism and Christianity, according to a Victorian court of appeal decision published earlier this month. As the leader of the sect, Dissanayake exerted significant control over his followers. He told them where they should live, how they should raise their children, and demanded hourly text messages praising him, according to the courts judgment. His followers were forced to seek permission for everything they did, including showering and leaving the home, and were made to kneel when he entered their homes. Men were instructed to stay together at one house and women at another. Parents had to relinquish the parenting of their own biological children and parent their co-habitants children instead. The doctor assumed a godlike status, the court decision said, which gave him access to and control over two 12-year-old girls, who were daughters of his followers. He was found to have sexually abused both repeatedly over a period of months, including during a December 2021 trip to Bunnings to purchase supplies to help members of the sect paint a Melton home. On other occasions, the abuse occurred in hotel rooms and at a car park. He later told psychologists that he raped the girls to teach them how to respect the lord and said his desire was to fix his victims by showing them love, the court judgment said. Dissanayake said he did not derive any sexual satisfaction from the abuse, a claim the court of appeal described as both delusional and chilling. The complainants were vulnerable young girls whose families were in the thrall of the respondent, the court of appeal said. He used his position and influence to facilitate access to the complainants and exert influence over them to commit the crimes. The offending was predatory offending of a disgusting and shameless kind. Dissanayake was initially sentenced in the Victorian county court to eight years imprisonment, with a non-parole period of five years. Prosecutors appealed against the sentence, saying it was manifestly inadequate. They told the court of appeal that the offending was serious because of the 37-year age gap between the offender and his victims, the vulnerability of the girls, and the use of Dissanayakes position as leader of the sect to facilitate access and exert influence over the girls. The court of appeal agreed, increasing the sentence to 10 years and 10 months imprisonment, with a non-parole period of eight years. In this case, the respondents conduct has harmed two complainants and was particularly egregious given his role, not as a doctor, but as the leader of the sect to which the complainants parents belonged and over whom he exercised significant authority and control, the court found. Furthermore, the offending was planned and then concealed from other adults with lies. The respondent continued to be indifferent to the harm inflicted on the complainants until well after he was charged and, until at least April 2023, he was peddling the explanation that he had been doing the complainants some kind of favour. He left his substantial expression of remorse to the day of sentencing. The court rejected the notion that Dissanayake had been blinded by some kind of religious fog that clouded his ability to recognise the illegality of his actions. Dissanayake, the court said, was a medical practitioner and an obviously intelligent and well educated man who well knew he was engaging in criminal conduct. He initially migrated to Australia with his wife and two sons in 2006. He was an accredited doctor and only stopped working in April 2022 when he told the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency of the charges against him, prompting a suspension of his licence. Do you know more? Contact christopher.knaus@guardian.co.uk In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International The apartment building where Debra Lee Miller was beaten to death on 29 April 1981 in Mansfield, Ohio. Photograph: AP The murder of an 18-year-old woman in Ohio 43 years ago has been solved with the help of DNA technology, authorities announced on Monday. Jason Bammann, the Mansfield police chief, said the cold case of Debra Lee Miller, a local waitress beaten to death with an oven grate in her apartment on 29 April 1981, was finally solved when DNA of a man shot dead by police was linked to the crime scene. The man, James Vanest, was shot dead by police last month as authorities attempted to serve him an indictment on federal gun charges. The investigation into the death of Miller had been long and troubled. Related: North Carolina governor commutes 15 death row sentences on last day in office Miller was one of several people from the Mansfield area whose suspicious deaths in the 1980s were examined for possible links to Mansfield police officers. A special investigation ordered by the mayor concluded in 1989 that there was no evidence linking any officers with the deaths, but the report raised questions about sexual involvement between police officers and Miller, and about the way police investigated some homicides. The report noted that Miller wrote in her diary that she was sexually involved with several Mansfield police officers. It wouldnt be the only controversy surrounding the department. The local police chief retired the following year, after complaints arose over alleged irregularities in the investigation of the death of the ex-wife of a Mansfield patrolman. Millers case was reopened several times during the ensuing years. Most recently, authorities reopened the investigation in 2021 to account for advances in DNA technology and forensic investigative techniques. They examined the case as if it had happened yesterday, through an entirely new lens, Bammann said at a news conference. Their findings were staggering. The chief said a firm DNA profile of Vanest, at the time Millers 26-year-old upstairs neighbor, emerged from evidence left from the room. Vanest had been questioned but never identified as a suspect during the initial investigation. This time, the Richland county prosecutor, Jodie Schumacher said the DNA evidence against Vanest was strong enough that her office was preparing a case against him for the killing to take to a grand jury. The case was never able to be presented. Police had found Vanest living in Canton, about 100 miles (161km) east of Mansfield, in November 2021 and reinterviewed him about Millers killing. He had admitted to lying to investigators during his first interview in 1981 and investigators sensed this time that he was trying to create an alibi to account for his DNA being present in Millers apartment, Bammann said. A Mansfield police detective, Terry Butler, sought a second interview in spring 2024, but Vanest refused to speak and requested an attorney. Authorities said he subsequently sold his house in Canton, bought a pickup truck and trailer and fled to West Virginia. He left several firearms at his Canton home and was stopped in West Virginia with two more. He was arrested on state charges and released on bond. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives took over his case and later indicted him on the federal gun charges. On 18 November, US Marshals and Canton-area Swat officers attempted to serve Vanest with that indictment at a north Canton motel where he was staying. It is our understanding that when confronted by Marshals and the Canton regional Swat team, Mr Vanest pointed a gun at them and barricaded himself inside the hotel, Bammann said. After a short shootout, one Canton Swat member was shot in the arm, and Mr Vanest was fatally shot. The chief said the department considers the case closed and hopes identifying Millers killer will bring her family some closure. Butler said his great-uncle was one of the first officers on the scene of Millers killing in 1981. He said he feels fortunate to get the chance to solve a homicide that happened when he was just 10 years old. People should know, he said, we dont give up, we keep digging. The German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has urged voters not to let the owners of social media channels decide next years snap election, after Elon Musk repeatedly endorsed the far-right party Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD). In a New Years Eve address recorded for television and made available before its broadcast on Tuesday, Scholz said German citizens alone had the power to decide where Germany goes from here after the general election on 23 February. It will not be decided by the owners of social media channels, Scholz said of the countrys future. In our debates, one can be forgiven for sometimes thinking the more extreme an opinion is, the more attention it will garner. Rather, Scholz said, the fate of German society will be up to the vast majority of reasonable and decent people. Without mentioning Musk or his platform, X, explicitly, Scholz urged Germans to resist manipulation and to stand up for their democracy. After all, its customary to make wishes on New Years Eve. What I wish for is that we will not let ourselves be played off each other, he said. Scholz noted there had been a surge of disinformation on social media after the Christmas market attack in Magdeburg on 20 December in which five people were killed and more than 200 injured. The car ramming was allegedly committed by a Saudi-born assailant with far-right sympathies. No small number of these rumours and conjectures, though, have meanwhile been debunked. These things divide and weaken us, he said. This is not good for our country. On Monday, a spokesperson for Scholz, Christiane Hoffmann, accused Musk of trying to meddle in the countrys election campaign with a series of declarations backing the anti-Muslim, anti-migration AfD party. It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election, Hoffmann said at a regular media briefing. Musk had the right to free speech, she said, adding: After all, freedom of opinion also covers the greatest nonsense. Musk has often weighed in on German politics, even calling Scholz a fool on X last month. However, his more recent open calls for German voters to support the AfD, which federal authorities classify as a suspected extremist party, have sparked outrage and accusations of troubling interference in Europes top economy. The South African-born entrepreneur, a close adviser to Donald Trump who has been named by the incoming president to co-lead a commission aimed at reducing the size of the US federal government, wrote on X earlier this month: Only the AfD can save Germany. In the post, Musk shared a video by a German rightwing influencer, Naomi Seibt, who criticised Friedrich Merz, the conservative frontrunner in the German election, and praised Javier Milei, Argentinas self-styled anarcho-capitalist president. He followed up at the weekend with a guest editorial in the broadsheet Welt am Sonntag arguing that Germany was teetering on the brink of economic and cultural collapse, defending the AfD against accusations of radicalism and praising the partys approach to the economy, including regulation and tax policy. The editor of the centre-right newspapers opinion section, Eva Marie Kogel, posted on X that she had submitted her resignation in protest at the decision to run the article. Politicians from across the political spectrum criticised Musks attempts to put his thumb on the scales of German democracy, with the health minister, Karl Lauterbach, of Scholzs Social Democratic party (SPD), calling his intervention undignified and highly problematic and Merz saying it was intrusive and presumptuous. Merz told the Funke media group: I cannot recall in the history of western democracies a comparable case of interference in the election campaign of a friendly country. Scholzs centre-left-led coalition collapsed last month, prompting him to call a confidence vote in order to trigger a general election in February, seven months ahead of schedule. His SPD is widely expected to lose to Merzs CDU/CSU bloc amid voter anger over the cost of living and meagre economic growth. AfD members have been working for months to make inroads with the Trump camp, seeking to harness his electoral momentum for the German campaign. Alice Weidel, the partys co-leader, was one of the first foreign politicians to welcome Trumps victory. A small group of AfD activists posed for pictures with Trump at his private club Mar-a-Lago on US election day last month, chanting Fight! Fight! Fight! in English and German. Musks endorsement in Die Welt cited Weidels same-sex partner from Sri Lanka as evidence that the portrayal of the AfD as rightwing extremist is clearly false. Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please! he wrote. The AfD is polling second on about 19%, behind the CDU/CSU on 31%. A strong showing for the party could complicate coalition building, requiring the election winner to seek up to two partners to build a ruling majority. All mainstream parties have ruled out collaborating with the AfD at state or federal level. Governor Kathy Hochul speaks at a press conference in the Queens borough of New York City on 26 November. Photograph: Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP New Yorks governor, Kathy Hochul, announced a number of policy changes to the states department of corrections and community supervision (DOCCS) on Monday, following the release of brutal footage showing correctional guards apparently beating a detained man to death. Hochul visited the Marcy correctional facility following the death of Robert Brooks, an imprisoned Black man who was beaten by facility correctional staff in a medical examining room. During her visit, Hochul met with prisoners to discuss the facilitys conditions and announced the appointment of a new permanent superintendent for the Marcy prison. Today, as I stood in the room where Robert Brooks was killed, I was once again heartbroken by this unnecessary loss of life and further sickened to think of the actions of depraved individuals with no regard for human life, Hochul said in a statement. The system failed Mr Brooks and I will not be satisfied until there has been significant culture change. Hochul also announced the state will be expediting $400m to purchase more body and fixed cameras for facilities across the state, the expansion of a DOCCS special investigations team, an expansion of a whistleblower hotline and new partnerships with organizations to monitor facilities. Related: Body-camera video released of beating preceding New York prisoners death Guards at the Marcy facility beat Brooks, who was handcuffed with his hands behind his back, on 9 December. Brooks died the next day at a hospital in Utica. Earlier this month, the states attorney general released body-camera footage of the beating, showing a team of correctional guards carrying a handcuffed and face-down Brooks into an examining room, and then repeatedly punching and kicking him for about 10 minutes. In the footage, he does not appear to threaten or resist the guards. Brooks is seen motionless on an examining table. A medical examiner determined Brooks may have died of asphyxia due to compression of the neck. Brookss death and the footage of his beating has led to rage and condemnation. Members of Brookss family reviewed the footage of the beating. We will not rest until we have secured justice for Roberts memory, and safety for the prisoners at Marcy correctional facility, said Elizabeth Mazur, the attorney for Brooks family. The New York attorney generals office of special investigations and the FBI are conducting investigations into Brookss death. In the days after Brookss death, Hochul ordered the DOCCS to fire 14 Marcy facility staff members, including 13 guards and one nurse. The Marcy prison in upstate New York has been criticized in the past for its conditions and treatment of detained people. A 2022 report from the Correctional Association of New York, an independent body that conducts audits of New York prisons, found a number of problems, including racial discrimination and mistreatment by facility staff. We are calling upon the State Inspector General and DOCCS Office of Special Investigations to investigate these serious allegations of racial discrimination and violations of human rights, said Jennifer Scaife, executive director of the Correctional Association of New York. Some of the correctional guards implicated in Brookss beating were previously accused of assault at the facility, including one 2020 case in which an inmate was beaten by guards and left with a permanent facial deformity, according to the New York Times. Russian President Vladimir Putin Twenty five years ago today, a somewhat undemonstrative technocrat became the acting president of Russia. In a surprise announcement, Boris Yeltsin handed over to Vladimir Putin, a former KGB officer whom he had chosen a few months earlier to be his prime minister. Putin has now ruled, in one guise or another, longer than any modern leader other than Joseph Stalin. On that New Years Eve 1999, few in the West imagined that he would still be at the helm a quarter of a century later. At the time, post-Soviet Russia was undergoing a massive transformation and faced severe economic difficulties. Russia experts thought it unlikely that an inexperienced politician could cling to power for even a year or two in such dangerously fluid circumstances. However, they under-estimated Putins resilience, self-belief and ruthlessness the last of these he demonstrated by his brutal suppression of the Chechens. He exhibited the characteristics of the hard man leader so beloved by Russians. Yet he squandered what might have been a golden legacy for his country. Initially he delivered stability and prosperity, clipping the wings of the powerful regional governors while high oil prices helped boost economic growth. For as long as the economy was booming, Putin was well disposed towards the West. Russia was invited to join the G7 group of nations and even, at one stage, contemplated joining Nato. When the oil price collapsed and the economy tanked, however, Putin adopted the characteristics of a more traditional Kremlin leader, stoking resentment towards the West for allegedly looking down on Russia and encroaching on Moscows sphere of influence. Russia has subsequently interfered in European and American politics, sided with anti-Western forces in the Middle East, invaded Georgia, annexed Crimea, invaded Ukraine and murdered its enemies wherever they were, regardless of who got in the way. Sweden and Finland, formerly neutral, have joined Nato for protection against his revanchist ambitions. Putin has continued to remove his political opponents even as he claims a popular mandate, seeming to believe that sham elections bestow legitimacy on himself and his regime. Twenty five years ago Putin came to power apparently eager to act like a Western democratic leader only to turn into an old-style Russian autocrat, extending his term in office by fiat. He claims to have made Russia great again yet, not for the first time, its people have been led into darkness. Naftogaz, Ukraines largest oil and gas company, has stopped Russia using its pipeline - Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Russia is set to lose 5 billion (4.14 billion) in gas sales as more than four decades of supplies sent to Europe via Ukraine came to an end. Naftogaz, Ukraines largest oil and gas company, refused to renew its latest five-year transit deal with Russias Gazprom, which lapsed on Jan 1. Gazprom confirmed that gas exports via Ukraine to Europe stopped from 8am local time (5am GMT) on Wednesday, the BBC reported. The Russian pipeline through Ukraine accounted for roughly 5 per cent of the European Unions gas imports, despite attempts by the bloc to wean itself off shipments from Moscow since its invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine is also giving up roughly 800 million a year in transit fees it had still been receiving from Russia despite the war. The gas pipeline system in Ukraine has been turned off, preventing Russia from selling to Europe - Vincent Mundy/Bloomberg The shutdown marks an almost complete end to Russias major share in the European gas market, which at its peak stood at 35 per cent. Moscow has lost market share to rivals such as Norway, the United States and Qatar. On Tuesday, Gazprom said it would pump less gas than usual through the pipeline on its last day of operation. The Kremlin-owned energy giant is expected to lose out on around 5 billion in annual profits, key funds for fuelling Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine, during the shutdown. The end of the transit deal is unlikely to cause a repeat of the 2022 EU gas price rally, as the remaining volumes are relatively small. Kyivs decision to end the supply of Russian gas through its territory to Europe is expected to impact Slovakia the most. Bratislavas pro-Kremlin government has resisted efforts by the rest of Europe to shift away from Russian supplies of fossil fuels during the almost three-year-long war. Robert Fico recently visited Moscow to talk to Vladimir Putin about the imminent gas crisis for Slovakia - Gavriil Grigorov/Reuters Robert Fico, its prime minister, questioned whether Ukraine had the right to damage the economic national interests of a [EU] member state during a visit to Moscow earlier this month for talks with Putin. Austria and the Czech Republic, which also use the same pipeline, have shifted to alternative supplies. Viktor Orban, Hungarys prime minister, has decided to continue the use of Russian gas via the TurkStream pipeline through Turkey the last remaining supply into Europe. Meanwhile, Putin used his traditional new years speech to say his country should be proud of its achievements under his 25-year rule. Dear friends, in just a few minutes 2025 will be ushered in, completing the first quarter of the 21st century, he said in televised remarks. Yes, we still have a lot to decide but we can be rightfully proud of what has already been done. On this New Years Eve, the thoughts, hopes of relatives and friends, millions of people across Russia are together with our fighters and commanders. Now, on the threshold of a new year, we are thinking about the future. We are sure that everything will be all right. We will only go forward. Couple sleeping Sleep is the key to keeping up New Years resolutions, experts have said, after finding people revert back to bad habits when they are tired. Around three quarters of people are expected to start the year with better intentions, with many vowing to eat more healthily, exercise or be more cautious with their money. Yet, according to YouGov, only around one third of people will actually stick to their plans, with many breaking their resolve by February. Now, the University of Surrey has discovered that people are more likely to slip back into old habits when they are feeling tired. Researchers followed more than 100 people for a week and texted them at random times to find out what they were up to, and gauge their sleepiness levels. All had been asked about their sleep patterns at the beginning of the study. Those getting less sleep and feeling tired were more likely to be engaging in habitual behaviours such as watching TV rather than exercising, or eating junk food rather than healthier meals. When were trying to make positive changes to our behaviour, feeling drowsy can put us at real risk of lapsing back into our old, unwanted bad habits, said Dr Benjamin Gardner, director of the Habit Application and Theory group at the University of Surrey. Lapsing can cause us to lose confidence in our ability to change and make us give up. Want to actually eat healthier in 2025? Then getting more than six hours sleep a night could be the key - Philippe Turpin Researchers believe sleep is important for resolutions because when the brain is tired, it switches to autopilot, reverting to habitual, tried-and-tested ways of operating to save energy. Tiredness also makes self-control more difficult, so tempting but unhealthy behaviours become more difficult to resist. The good news, however, is that once healthy habits become ingrained, the brain will also choose to repeat those even if it is fatigued, because they start to seem like the easy option. Our study shows this definitively: people were more likely to act habitually when they reported feeling sleepy, said Dr Amanda Rebar, co-author and associate professor of health promotion education at the University of South Carolina. While this can result in higher levels of good habits, it can also lead individuals to fall back on bad habits. More than a third of Britons sleep for less than six hours a night, according to the Sleep Council, while up to 20 per cent of people suffer from extreme daytime sleepiness. For those working toward New Years resolutions, the researchers recommend getting enough sleep to ensure the alertness required to support new habits and maintain the willpower to fend off bad ones. Once those new habits become established, they are more likely to be relied upon when sleepiness strikes. Dr Rebar added: Acting in line with our preferences requires wilful determination. Feeling sleepy diminishes our ability to exert that determination over other competing desires and temptations. That can lead us to act habitually, in a way that goes against our goals. When our ability to control what we do is depleted by sleepiness, we tend to act more on autopilot, with minimal forethought. The research was published in the journal of Sleep Research. The then home secretary David Blunkett (left) with Tony Blair at the Labour party conference in 2003. Photograph: Chris Ison/PA Senior figures in Tony Blairs government, including John Prescott and Jack Straw, urged the then prime minister to delay opening the UK labour market to eastern European nationals shortly before they became EU citizens, newly released documents reveal. Papers released to the National Archives in Kew, west London, showed Prescott and Straw warned of a surge in immigration unless some controls were put in place. But others including the then home secretary, David Blunkett argued that the economy needed the flexibility and productivity of migrant labour if it was to continue to prosper. Related: Ukraine thought UK had too rosy a view of Putin, Blair was told when PM On 1 May 2004, 10 countries officially became EU member states, the majority of them former eastern bloc states that, at the time, had lower income levels compared with the rest of Europe. Nationals from those countries could work and live in Britain thanks to freedom of movement as soon as they became EU citizens. As the 1 May date approached, Blairs cabinet appeared publicly supportive, but the papers suggest more fraught discussions behind the scenes. Prescott and Straw, who were deputy prime minister and foreign secretary at the time, wrote to Blair in February 2004. They both urged him to consider pushing back the 1 May start date. The original 15 EU member states could impose restrictions, including annual limits and work permits, for up to seven years after the 10 new states joined the bloc. In a letter dated 10 February 2004, Straw called on Blair to hold a meeting with himself, David Blunkett and Andrew Smith, who served as work and pensions secretary at the time, to consider a delay until a rather less feverish time (hopefully) in, say, November [2004]. He said: if we do not think this through now, the government could be forced to suspend the right to work for the new EU nationals in the least propitious of circumstances. The UK, Ireland and Sweden were the only pre-2004 EU member states to fully open their labour markets. Straw said that other EU member states that were assumed to be adopting a similar arrangement to the UK had began to peel away, including Germany and France, who ended up imposing restrictions. A meeting was subsequently scheduled for 17 February 2004. A day before the summit, Prescott wrote to Blair, saying he supported Straws position. He urged the prime minister not to introduce the measures on 1 May, instead saying they could be enacted in the near future. He added it was very important that we get this right and do not adopt a position that we may have to reconsider within a short period. He also voiced concerns about the impact the new EU nationals could have on public services, saying he was extremely concerned about the additional pressures they could bring to bear on social housing. Blunkett, who publicly welcomed the new EU citizens, also wrote to Blair, laying out his opposition to imposing restrictions on their right to work in the UK, saying such a scheme would not only be expensive and bureaucratic but I believe ineffective. He said a restrictive scheme could buy the government short-term political cover but would only be storing up more deep-seated political difficulties in the very near future and closer to the general election. Soon after the meeting, the government confirmed it was sticking to the 1 May date. After this date, EU citizens were able to arrive in the UK largely unrestricted; however, they were only able to claim benefits if they were in work. At the time, Home Office officials forecast a net increase of no more than 13,000 workers a year after 1 May 2004. In the weeks after, however, the files showed the numbers arriving were far outstripping these estimates. One official said they faced an elephant trap and advised ministers to err on the side of publishing less rather than more when it came to releasing official data. In the years after, net migration to the UK rose to more than 200,000 a year. Straw later said that the failure to put in place any transitional controls had been a spectacular mistake that had far-reaching consequences. The issue of freedom of movement would go on to strongly influence British politics in the 2010s. Ukip, which ran an anti-immigration campaign under Nigel Farage, won more than 3m votes in the 2015 general election. A year later, the UK voted to leave the EU in a seismic political moment for the nation. Sir Keir Starmer said: I know there is still so much more to do Sir Keir Starmer has admitted many people are finding it hard to think about the future in a downbeat new year address. The Prime Minister addressed the difficulties families were facing and conceded that the change his Government aimed to deliver would take time. He expressed hope that 2025 would see Britain rediscover the great nation we are, adding: I know there is still so much more to do, and that for many people its hard to think about the future when you spend all your time fighting to get through the week. The Government is approaching its six-month mark in office with economic growth stagnant after a 40 billion tax rise in the Budget in October. I wish you and your loved ones a very happy New Year. pic.twitter.com/iW4NTmSeg7 Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 31, 2024 Sir Keirs personal approval ratings have slumped, and are lower than any other prime minister five months into office, according to one pollster who has been asking the question since the late 1970s. YouGov Polling, commissioned by The Times, found that 37 per cent of voters are pessimistic about the year ahead and only 21 per cent trust Labour with the economy Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, also offered a gloomy assessment in a short new year message, admitting there would be bumpy days ahead for the Tories as they seek to recover from their historic general election defeat in July. Happy New Year! I'm excited for 2025 and the challenges ahead. The renewal of the Conservative Party is underway. Our country needs us to get this right. Under new leadership, we are committed to doing things differently, focusing on real solutions to the challenges we pic.twitter.com/L3EOE5j0rh Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) December 31, 2024 But Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, used a video address to claim there was optimism and a buzz about his party. Sir Keirs address included notes of optimism as he talked about a year of rebuilding, but also rediscovering the great nation that we are. A nation that gets things done, no matter how hard or tough the circumstances. He also promised hard work, saying: I want to be clear. Until you can look forward and believe in the promise and the prosperity of Britain again, then this Government will fight for you. A fight for change that will define this year, next year, and indeed every waking hour of this Government. The Prime Minister mentioned his previous pledge to put more cash in your pocket, wherever you live but critics have accused him of doing the opposite with a 25 billion increase in the National Insurance paid by companies, which analysts predicted would lead to lower wages. He has previously spoken about the scale of the challenge facing the country during his first months in office, prompting critics to accuse him of talking down the nation. Mel Stride, the Tory shadow chancellor, said of Sir Keirs new year address: Keir Starmer promised change but the only thing hes delivered is change for the worse. Vulnerable pensioners deprived of vital winter fuel payments, businesses and workers hit with their jobs tax, family farms facing bankruptcy, the economy flatlining and a failure to control illegal migration. Mrs Badenoch issued a video message that was just 24 seconds long, saying: Like all of you, I am looking forward to a 2025 that is full of hope, security and prosperity. The Conservative Party is also going through a period of change. This process of renewal will be a long-term project. Things may be bumpy along the way, but the party I now lead is going to do things differently. Watch this space. Mr Farage declared that Reform was a party filled with optimism in a new year message delivered from Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Credit: Nigel_Farage/X In his six-minute address, he said: Over the course of Christmas, tens of thousands of people have joined Reform UK. There is a buzz. There is an energy. There is an optimism. Were not negative. Yes, we know the other lot made an absolute mess of it. That Labour and Conservative are virtually the uniparty. We believe we can turn this country around by 180 degrees and make Britain a much better place. In the Christmas period, Reforms self-declared membership numbers have exceeded those of the Conservatives, standing at 157,000. The claim caused a row with Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, who insisted the figures were fake. The two surviving flight attendants had reportedly been seated in the rear section of the aircraft that separated in the collision - Yonhap/AFP Two crew members may have survived the Jeju Air plane crash in South Korea thanks to sitting backwards with a harness on in the safest part of the cabin, according to aviation experts. The Boeing 737-800 belly-landed and skidded down the runway at Muan International Airport on Sunday before hitting a structure beyond the Tarmac and bursting into flames. Of the 181 on board, 179 were killed. The two surviving flight attendants, who had reportedly been seated in the rear section of the aircraft that separated in the collision, were rescued from the planes tail, which pictures showed ended up upside down. Lee Jung-hyun, the chief of the Muan fire department, said: Only the tail part retains a little bit of shape, and the rest of [the plane] looks almost impossible to recognise. It follows the survival of two crew members in the tail of a plane that crashed in Kazakhstan last week, killing most of its passengers and crew. Experts have suggested that the crew members positioning within the South Korean aircraft, as well as them probably wearing a four-point harness, may have saved their lives. Lee Mo, 33, who was in charge of passenger service at the back of the plane according to local media, suffered a fractured left shoulder and head injuries before waking disorientated at the intensive care unit in Ewha Womans University Hospital in Seoul. He repeatedly asked what happened? and why am I here?, before recalling wearing his seat belt before the crash, The Korea Times reported. Ju Woong, the director of Ewha Womans University Hospital, said Lee was fully able to communicate and there was no indication yet of memory loss or such, but the flight attendant was being kept under special care because of the possibility of full-body paralysis. Sitting in a rear-facing seat and wearing a safety harness, as shown in this file photo, may have saved the lives of the two cabin crew - Creative Credit/iStockphoto Another crew member known only by her surname, Koo, 25, was reportedly taken to the Asan Medical Center in Seoul with a scalp laceration, a fractured ankle and abdominal pain. She reportedly said in her initial statements: Smoke came out of one of the planes engines and then it exploded. Officials said that the crash came after the plane was struck by birds at about 9am local time (midnight GMT). Jay Robert, a former senior cabin crew member for Emirates, said that crew at the rear of a Boeing 737-800 conventionally sit in backward facing seats and wear a harness. The 737-800s I have been on all have seats facing backwards at the rear, he told The Telegraph, adding: It is a better position for impact and you wear a four-point harness. The airplane usually breaks apart on impact and passengers in the rear tend to have a better chance of survival. A police forensics team examines parts of the wreckage of the crash at Muan International Airport - Yonhap/AFP Shem Malmquist, an air safety and accident investigator, pilot and professor of aeronautics at Florida Institute of Technology, said both the harness and backward facing seats would have improved the chance of survival. They definitely would have been wearing harnesses, that would possibly have helped, and if they were sitting backwards that would keep them somewhat safer, he told The Telegraph. Mr Malmquist, who has flown Boeing 777s for the best part of 35 years, said that harnesses would not necessarily improve safety in most accidents and so their rollout would depend on return on investment. It would be safer but people dont like to wear the harnesses and of course it is the cost, he said, adding that airlines would be cautious to accept changes to seats and seat belts for the added weight which would increase fuel consumption. A report by Naval Aviation News in 1952 suggested passengers in transport planes were 10 times more likely to survive a crash in a backward facing seat, while Richard Snyder, a scientist at the University of Michigan, concluded in a 1983 paper that data appears to overwhelmingly substantiate that the seated occupant can tolerate much higher crash forces when oriented in the rearward-facing position. Mr Malmquist said: It should be looked at. Nobody is talking about this. There is a lot we can do and it is virtually untapped.. On Christmas Day, two crew members also survived after an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 went down in Kazakhstan after it was allegedly hit by a Russian ground-to-air missile, killing 38 people. The Boeing 737-800 belly-landed and skidded down the runway at Muan International Airport on Sunday - Lee Geun-young/via Reuters Zulfugar Asadov and Aidan Rahimli had been stationed at the back of the plane when the aircraft split, with the tail remaining intact, while the front caught fire. In these two crashes, the impact was from the front, said Mr Robert, adding: In South Korea, the crew at the back would possibly have been shielded from the explosion. I would assume it would have been a bit more protected than everyone else. The rear of a commercial aircraft is statistically the safest place in a crash, according to an analysis of 35 years of data by Time magazine in 2015. The study found those at the rear of a plane had a fatality rate of 32 per cent, which rose 38 per cent at the front and 39 per cent in the middle. The wings of a plane store fuel, which carries a risk of explosion. Middle seats, which have the benefit of fellow passengers acting as buffers, in the rear had the best outcomes at 28 per cent, compared with the worst faring aisle seats in the middle of the plane at 44 per cent. Steven Green, a retired Boeing 737-800 pilot from Vermont, said it was no surprise that people in the tail have a better chance of surviving because the area is structurally very strong. Mr Green, who flew commercial airlines for over 40 years, said there was a safety argument to be had for rolling out harnesses and backward facing seats to passengers. From a safety standpoint, it makes sense, he told The Telegraph, adding: The British tried rear-facing seats on Trident [jets] but nobody liked them, it doesnt feel right. Ambulances outside A&E at University hospital Wales in Cardiff. The critical incident was declared on Monday evening at a point when about 350 emergency calls were waiting to be answered. Photograph: Huw Fairclough/Getty Images The chief executive of the Welsh ambulance service has urged New Years Eve revellers to drink in moderation and eat before they begin partying to help it cope with an ongoing critical incident. Jason Killens admitted people may already have come to harm because of delays in paramedics reaching them and said the crisis was likely to continue for the rest of Tuesday and into Wednesday. Killens said: I expect the pressure will continue through the rest of today. Of course its New Years Eve and we expect to see a busy evening and the early hours of the morning. People out partying tonight can help us. We want people to enjoy themselves and have a good time but drink in moderation. Eat something before you do that and if youre out with friends and they do have one too many, please do look after them. Speaking to the BBC, Killens said the poor weather that is forecast would add additional complications. He added: Communities can continue to help us whilst we do remain under extreme pressure by only calling us when they really do need to and using the 111 service or accessing care from their pharmacist or GP where thats appropriate. The critical incident was declared on Monday evening at a point when about 350 emergency calls were waiting to be answered and more than half of the services vehicles were also waiting to hand over patients outside hospitals. Killens said: I want to say sorry to patients who waited a very long time yesterday and continue to wait much longer than we would like this morning. Asked if lives were being put at risk, he said: Theres no doubt that regrettably some patients that have waited longer may have come to harm because of those waits but of course we always prioritise every single emergency call and respond to the sickest patients first. Killens said: This is certainly one of the worst periods I have seen. Weve always seen pressure at winter because of flu and other respiratory viruses that are circulating but the last 24/48 hours have been particularly acute for us. The Welsh ambulance service advised people on New Years Eve to: Consume alcohol in moderation, eating before they drink and alternating alcoholic beverages with soft drinks. Pre-arrange transport home, and never drive under the influence of drink or drugs. Avoid high-risk activities such as using fireworks as well as burns, smoke inhalation from bonfires and fireworks can irritate respiratory conditions, including asthma. On Monday morning, before the critical incident was declared, the service said there had been a significant increase in the number of calls. Judith Bryce, the assistant director of operations, said: The number of immediately life-threatening red calls weve had in the last seven days remains very high, with the service receiving 1,716 calls compared with just 1,213 for the same period last year. Demand has also increased significantly on our NHS 111 Wales service and has seen us answer over 1,200 more calls compared with the same week in 2023. New York police inspect the F train platform at Coney Island, where Debrina Kawam died - Yuki Iwamura/AP Police in New York have identified a woman who died after being set on fire on a subway train in a random attack. The 61-year-old victim has been named as Debrina Kawam, of Toms River, New Jersey. She was sleeping on a subway train at Coney Island at 7.30am on Dec 22 when she was set alight and died from her injuries, according to the New York Police Department. Footage of the incident showed her engulfed in flames while the alleged killer, an illegal migrant from Guatemala, stoked the fire with a shirt before watching from a bench on the platform as she burned. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, was arrested a few hours after the killing and is facing first-degree murder and arson charges. He was arrested after police received a tip-off from a group of high-school students who recognised images of the suspect circulated by police. This was a malicious deed. A sleeping, vulnerable woman on our subway system, Eric Gonzalez, the Brooklyn district attorney, said after the suspects indictment was announced. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is facing first-degree murder and arson charges - Curtis Means/Pool/Daily Mail Authorities previously said they were using forensics and video surveillance to identify the victim after her injuries left her unrecognisable. The suspect and victim are not believed to have known each other, law enforcement officials told The New York Times. Ms Kawam was already on the F train when Mr Zapeta-Calil boarded, the outlet reported, and they both rode it to the end of the line at Brooklyns Coney Island station. Eric Adams, the New York City mayor, said Ms Kawam had a brief stint in our homeless shelter system and that authorities had been in contact with her next of kin. Sources told the New York Post that the victim had been living in the citys shelters since at least Sept 9 and had stayed at a shelter in the Bronx, in northern Manhattan, on Nov 30 but left on Dec 2. Hearts go out to the family Hearts go out to the family, a horrific incident to have to live through, said Mr Adams at a press briefing. It impacts on how New Yorkers feel. But it really reinforces what Ive been saying people should not be living on our subway system, they should be in a place of care. No matter where she lived, that should not have happened. Mr Zapeta-Calil is being held at Rikers Island without bail, and his indictment is expected to be unsealed on Jan 7. He is yet to enter a plea in the case. When questioned about the incident by police, prosecutors said Mr Zapeta-Calil claimed not to know what had happened, noting that he consumed alcohol. However, he did identify himself in photos and surveillance video showing the fire being lit, according to prosecutors. Federal immigration officials told the New York Post that he was deported after spending a week in the US illegally in 2018, but later found his way back into the country. He is reported to have spent time living in New Yorks homeless shelters since March last year. No 10 Visitors Books released to the National Archives Together they must constitute one of the most remarkable collections of autographs assembled in the UK in recent times. For more than three decades, VIP visitors to No 10 Downing Street would solemnly sign their names in the Visitors Book. Now three gilt-edged volumes, covering the years 1970, when Edward Heath was prime minister, to 2003 when Tony Blair was in office, have been released to the National Archives at Kew, west London. Over that time, princes and potentates, presidents and prime ministers, heroes and some decided villains all left their mark for posterity. When the late Queen visited she would sign herself Elizabeth R, while the present King and his then wife were simply Charles and Diana. The signature of Queen Elizabeth II in one of the Downing Street Visitors Books (Ben Whitley/PA) The signatures of then-Prince of Wales, now King, and his then wife Diana, Princess of Wales, when they visited 10 Downing Street on November 20 1989 (Ben Whitley/PA) The illustrious list of names includes successive US presidents from Jimmy Carter through Ronald Reagan, George Bush senior and Bill Clinton to George Bush junior. At the end of his visit in 1989, the elder Mr Bush wrote: With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this relationship that means so much to which his wife, Barbara, added: Me too. The signatures of US President George Bush and his wife Barbara (Ben Whitley/PA) In 1996 South Africas president Nelson Mandela noted Visiting Downing St, No 10, is always an unforgettable experience while Czech president Vaclav Havel added a heart sign under his name. The signature of Nelson Mandela in one of the three Downing Street Visitors Books (Ben Whitley/PA) Two particularly remarkable pages commemorate the 250th anniversary of No 10 in 1985. The first is signed by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, who signed himself Philip. The facing page is then signed by all five surviving former prime ministers, Harold Macmillan, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath and James Callaghan, as well as the then incumbent Margaret Thatcher. The pages marking the 250th anniversary of Downing Street with signatures of the Queen, Prince Philip, the Wilsons, the Humes, the Callaghans, Edward Heath, the Earl of Stockton, and Margaret and Denis Thatcher (Ben Whitley/PA) Other notable visitors over the years included Sir Winston Churchills widow, Clementine, the Second World War commander Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. Among those no doubt less fondly remembered are the notorious Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwes president Robert Mugabe. The existence of the books came to light earlier this year when one was offered for sale at auction. According to the auctioneers, Chiswick Auctions, the seller was a retired civil servant who found it after he was given permission to remove water-damaged boxes marked for incineration following a flood in Whitehall. The signatures of the Churchill family are seen in one of three Downing Street Visitors Books at the National Archives (Ben Whitley/PA) Three Downing Street Visitors Books at the National Archives (Ben Whitley/PA) It had been expected to raise around 15,000 but the sale was suspended after the Cabinet Office claimed it was government property under the Public Records Act 1958. The Cabinet Office declined a request for comment on the decision now to release all three books to the National Archives. The UK faces a year of rebuilding while also rediscovering the great nation that we are in 2025, according to Sir Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister used his first new years message since entering Downing Street to reflect on a year of change in 2024, although joked this did not extend to football as the England mens team experienced another agonisingly close shave by losing to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. He added his Labour administration has begun the work of change since winning the general election in July and pointed to an increase in the minimum wage, clean energy projects and NHS investment as examples. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a visit to Estonia in December 2024 (Leon Neal/PA) The 80th anniversaries of two notable moments of the Second World War Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day also provide a chance for the nation to come together in 2025, Sir Keir said. In a video message, Sir Keir said: I know there is still so much more to do and that for many people its hard to think about the future when you spend all of your time fighting to get through the week. So I want to be clear: until you can look forward and believe in the promise and the prosperity of Britain again, then this Government will fight for you. A fight for change that will define this year, next year and, indeed, every waking hour of this Government. We have a clear plan for change: 1.5 million new homes restoring the dream of home ownership; children starting school, ready to learn; a more secure energy system; waiting lists cut dramatically; immigration reduced; neighbourhood police, tackling anti-social behaviour in every community; and more cash in your pocket, wherever you live. That is what we will be focusing on. A year of rebuilding, but also rediscovering the great nation that we are. A nation that gets things done. No matter how hard or tough the circumstances. Sir Keir said 2025 will offer time to reflect on that as he described the upcoming Second World War anniversaries as a chance to cherish the greatest victories of this country, and the greatest generation that achieved it. He said: The 8th of May and the 15th of August will both be wonderful moments, to come together and do that generation proud. But that victory and indeed the peace and the prosperity that followed all rested on that same foundation we must rebuild today. The security of working people. That is the purpose of this Government. The goal of our plan for change. And we will push it forward in 2025. So, wherever and however youre celebrating tonight, on behalf of the Government, happy new year. Heres to a year of changing Britain for the better. Sir Keir faces a challenging year at home and abroad as he bids to implement his programme for government following Labours landslide election victory. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves poses outside 11 Downing Street (Lucy North/PA) Chancellor Rachel Reeves used her first budget to announce tax measures designed to raise an extra 40 billion a year in the hope of investing the revenue into schools, the NHS, transport and housing. The results of a spending review will follow this year, with Ms Reeves ordering departments to find 5% savings. Questions remain over when the Government will meet its ambition to spend 2.5% of gross domestic product (GDP), a measure of the size of the economy, on defence and how it will pursue its net-zero agenda. Ministers will also hope for an improved economic outlook as they aim to deliver on the plan for growth. Local elections in England in May will give an indication of how the public feels about Labour after its first few months in charge. Sir Keir will also seek to reset the UKs relationship with the European Union, continue support for Ukraine and handle the return of US President-elect Donald Trump to the White House. His opposite number, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, has also published her new years message, looking forward to a 2025 that is full of hope, security and prosperity. She added: The Conservative Party is also going through a period of change. This process of renewal will be a long-term project. Things may be bumpy along the way but the party I now lead is going to do things differently. Heavy rain and high winds are causing disruption in much of the country, with blizzards forecast in Scotland and widespread cancellation of New Years Eve events. Almost every part of the UK is covered by at least one of multiple Met Office weather warnings between Monday and Wednesday. On New Years Eve, an amber warning for rain is in force in the Highlands and Moray until 5pm. A yellow warning for snow and rain initially covered most of Scotland until midnight, which the Met Office said may bring significant disruption in the build-up to new year, but later changed to covering the Highlands and Moray only with the time extended to 4am. A landslide and flooding have closed roads and rail lines in the Highlands. Forecasters said delays to all types of transport are likely on New Years Eve as strong winds persist and may reach speeds of up to 70mph in parts of England and Northern Ireland. The A9 near Invergordon is closed due to flooding (Paul Campbell/PA) Parts of central and southern Scotland and northern England are covered by a yellow warning for wind from 7am until 11pm, with a separate wind warning covering much of Northern Ireland from 6am until 2pm. A yellow warning for rain for much of Wales and north-west England runs from 3pm on Tuesday until 11am on Wednesday, with the Met Office warning of possible danger to life from floodwater. A yellow warning for snow is in place until midnight in Orkney and Shetland. (PA Graphics) Outdoor Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh have already been cancelled, as have planned public fireworks displays in Blackpool, Newcastle, the Isle of Wight and Ripon, North Yorkshire. City Hall in London said it is continuing to monitor the weather forecast closely. The Met Office warned blizzard conditions are possible, especially in Sutherland and Caithness in northern Scotland. Edinburghs Hogmanay organisers have apologised to international tourists who have travelled to the city for the street party and midnight fireworks, which were both cancelled on Monday due to weather hitting preparations. International student Darren Travasso, 21, from Mumbai, India, travelled to Edinburgh from Leicester to celebrate with friends and had planned to watch the fireworks. He said: Im here for three days, we are all on vacation. It is a bit sad but theres still time to come up with other ideas. Aditi Sahu, 35, and Neeraj Krishnan, 35, travelled from London and had planned their trip around the fireworks. Mr Krishnan said: We feel like we are stranded. We dont really know what to do for new year. Waves break on the seafront in Blackpool (Peter Byrne/PA) Scottish Culture Secretary Angus Robertson defended the undoubtedly correct decision to cancel. He told Radio 4s Today programme: The organisers believe that they took the decision quite early for the reason that they wanted to be able to communicate to people who have been travelling now. I would stress whilst it is hugely disappointing that the events as planned in Princes Street, in the old town, over by the castle, the concert by Texas and so on, are not going ahead, there will be lots happening in Edinburgh. There will be all kinds of events, the pubs and clubs will be open. Im truly sorry for everybody who has travelled but I think given the extent of the weather forecast its really, really bad in some parts of the country its not the right thing to proceed. Elsewhere, the fireworks display in Blackpool has been cancelled because of expected high winds but the rest of the New Years Eve family party will still go ahead. Important Update for Our New Year's Eve Family Party! Due to the forecast of high winds tomorrow evening, we have had to make the tough decision to cancel the fireworks display this year. The rest of the New Year's Eve Family Party will continue as planned, with plenty of fun pic.twitter.com/YSW9gtG6nt VisitBlackpool (@visitBlackpool) December 30, 2024 Fireworks on Newcastles Quayside, Market Square in Ripon and at Sandown Carnival on the Isle of Wight have all been cancelled because of the weather. Stefan Laeger, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, warned those travelling or celebrating New Year to be especially careful. He urged people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car. Mr Laeger added: Heavy and persistent rain tonight and into tomorrow means river levels are likely to be high across the north of England, Pennines and parts of the Midlands until the end of the week, with significant inland flooding possible until Thursday and minor impacts possible on Friday. Meanwhile in the Highlands, the risk of severe flooding has been downgraded by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, however the Met Office continues to warn some communities could be cut off by blizzards. The A832 between Avoch and Fortrose is closed due to a landslide (Paul Campbell/PA) In the region, flooding closed the A9 at Tomich on Tuesday morning and a landslide closed the A832 between Fortrose and Avoch. Flooding and a landslip closed the Far North Line while the railway between Dingwall and Inverness was closed for several hours due to floods Weve arrived on site between Helmsdale and Brora on the Far North Line where theres been a landslip. The line will remain closed here until were able to clear the debris from the track and engineers confirm its safe for trains to run. @ScotRail pic.twitter.com/DshxCGlWZR Network Rail Scotland (@NetworkRailSCOT) December 31, 2024 The Met Office said: North and east of (and including) Perthshire, precipitation is likely to fall as snow, especially over high ground, with 10-20cm accumulating above 150-200 metres, with several centimetres accumulating at lower elevations away from windward coasts. As milder air pushes in, snow will turn back to rain, and any rapid snow melt will contribute to flooding in places. Strong winds may exacerbate impacts, particularly across the areas of Scotland affected by snow. Blizzard conditions are possible, especially over high ground and across much of Sutherland and Caithness. Powerline icing is possible where blizzard conditions occur. CalMac Ferries said several services on the west coast of Scotland had been cancelled with others subject to disruption. Further south, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company cancelled all of Tuesdays sailings between Heysham and Douglas. The A66 in Cumbria and North Yorkshire was closed in both directions on Tuesday morning to high-sided vehicles. A surfer catches a wave in the wind at Tynemouth Longsands on the north east coast of England (Owen Humphreys/PA) Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said: It will be a tricky couple of days and a wet and windy spell for many up into the new year. Were encouraging anyone who is planning to travel to keep up to date with the weather forecast and news from their local authorities. The new year will be off to a turbulent start with weather warnings in place for wind, rain and snow on January 1. Winds of up to 60mph are forecast across much of England and Wales all day on Wednesday, with gusts of 75mph likely around coastal areas and hills, according to the Met Office. Reddit employees we spoke to said they balanced stress and excitement as Reddit went public in 2024. Reddit; iStock; Rebecca Zisser/BI Reddit went public in 2024 and is a more popular, profitable site than ever in its 20-year history. BI spoke to 11 Reddit employees about the new challenges and maintaining its beloved culture. They shared everything from their favorite subreddit to what the IPO means to them. 2024 was a great year for Reddit. The company went public in March with a $6.4 billion valuation and reported its first quarterly profit in October. Shares have soared 230% since its IPO. And as BI's Emily Stewart recently wrote, Reddit has become more mainstream than ever. Its daily active users jumped 47% in the most recent quarter compared to a year earlier, thanks in part to an unprecedented number of people tacking "Reddit" onto their search terms a demand the company will try to meet with "Reddit Answers," its new AI-powered search tool. To find out what this year has looked like on the inside, BI asked 11 Reddit employees or "Snoos," as Reddit calls its 2,000 employees to share their favorite highlights behind the scenes of the "front page of the internet." They described some career-defining moments and talked about managing through rapid change and a new level of pressure. Here's what they said. Three of 11 Reddit employees BI spoke to (from left to right): Roxy Young, Laura Nestler, and Serkan Piantino. Reddit What it meant to take Reddit public "You can pretend that this all makes sense, and it's all business as usual for a little bit. But there are moments where I kind of zone out and realize the scale and how cool a moment I'm in. I guess the word to describe it is 'awe.'" Serkan Piantino, 41, VP of product, New York City. Joined Reddit in 2022. "There are always going to be individuals that say, 'Reddit is not what it used to be.' Of course, it's not going to be what it used to be. It's going to be what we make it in the future." David Trencher, 43, senior managing director, large customer sales, EMEA & Australia, London. Joined the company in 2019. "2024 has been maybe the highlight of my career at Reddit. We are so focused on starting with community. I think in '24 we've embraced that value more than ever," Laura Nestler, VP of community, Seattle. Joined Reddit in 2021. IPO day was 'so Reddit,' employees said Reddit employees gather at the New York Stock Exchange for listing day. NYSE: RDDT "Getting Snoo (the company's mascot) to ring the bell (rather than our CEO) was just so Reddit-y. It was a culmination of so many years of hard work to get here, and to see it all come to fruition in a very Reddit way was awesome." Paulita David, Senior Managing Director, large customer sales in North America. Joined Reddit in 2021. "We broadcast live globally, and I got to emcee the entire thing on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. We all got to see and feel what was happening." Michelle Lozzi, 40, senior director of experience, San Francisco. Joined Reddit in 2017. "It was so nice having our new Snoo mascot up there ringing the bell, symbolizing our employees and the community. There is a human in there. We cannot reveal who it is, but the only clue I can share is you have to be 5'10" to wear the suit." Monica Benson, 38, head of brand operations and creative production, Los Angeles. Joined Reddit in 2020. How employees managed through change and volatility "The biggest change for us has been just the sheer volume of advertisers wanting to advertise on Reddit. It impacts my job pretty dramatically. With this increased demand, we're really embracing more automation." David "We run a lot of experiments, so failure is a day-to-day thing. Many of our experiments just don't pan out, and a lot of my job is to refine the idea and keep going or decide to work on something else. We're not a huge company. We still have limited resources, so we have to prioritize." Piantino "There's a balance of excitement and pressure that keeps me grounded. The fact that we have a real share price that we can use to measure our size adds somewhat to the pressure, but ultimately the excitement and enthusiasm outweigh it. Something we try to instill in our culture is to not get too high with the highs, and too low with the lows." Jesse Rose, 38, head of investor relations, Massachusetts, Joined Reddit in 2021. "I know what volatility looks like, and I know how much that can be a distraction for the team. I liked being a calming force and reminding people that, some days, they're going to say great things about you. Some days they're going to say bad things about you, but you are never as good or as bad as they say you are." Piantino "That (two-year pre-IPO period) helped us prepare our teams, which helped alleviate some stress. We were going into it knowing what we needed to do." Trencher "Some of our communities are growing really fast, and that can be a challenge. There are a bunch of tools that moderators can now use to handle moments of accelerated growth." Nicole Heard, 36, UK country lead, London. Joined Reddit in 2022. Employees say Reddit's culture hasn't changed "When I came back from maternity leave, I wanted to know how the company culture had changed. It felt warm to come back to that authentic, community-building company, but the stakes are higher." Benson "People in our UK office genuinely like spending time with each other. Our office had some of the highest real-life visits this year probably three days a week. The people and culture is what makes it an amazing place to work." Sam Hughes, 33, senior client partner, London, Joined Reddit in 2021. "When I joined in 2021, we had this really small kind of Harry Potter cupboard at a WeWork that sat three to five people. Then we got a bigger space with a whole floor, and now, earlier this year, we got an amazing new building." Hughes "We just hosted Mod World in our San Francisco office, which was where we brought in 60 of our moderators and made them feel like they're also a part of this. Because it's not just us building the product, it's them maintaining, operating and, breathing life into it." Lozzi "My team has grown from three to eight this year. What I'm looking for is people who understand the human interactions that happen on Reddit, and understand exactly what Reddit stands for in the social media landscape." Alia Chikhdene, 30, head of community, international, Paris. At Reddit since 2021. Favorite projects included offline community-building "I was able to travel to countries all over and meet moderators in local markets. I recently got back from a trip to Manila to see the people in our community called Coffee Philippines. Seeing local communities start to thrive and build local ecosystems is really magical." Nestler "Our mods are now able to access community funds, where they can apply for funding to do something great with their community and create an impact. The mods of r/Eurovision got funding to go to this year's competition in Sweden to meet the artists and take AMA questions. This became one of the top five fastest-growing communities in the UK, Germany, and Spain. It was a really impactful initiative that helped connect that community to the artists they love." Heard Reddit employees shared their top Subreddits r/skincareaddiction. "I'm always trying to figure out how I can address these wrinkles and get glowing skin." Young r/PhotoshopRequest: "You can send in photos, and the community will do an incredible job for you." Lozzi r/vosfinances: "This is a community that is really helping with financial literacy. You're one question away from building your future wealth plan." Chikhdene r/askmeuf: "This translates to 'ask women.' I'm incredibly grateful to the mods who have built this space and made it safe, vibrant, and inclusive, and making it culturally available to French women." Chikhdene r/moderatelygranolamoms - "I'm often looking for the most non-toxic, sustainable products and ways to raise my baby, and this is the perfect group for talking about that." Benson r/TrueOffMyChest - "It's a very vulnerable place where people can be anonymous and just share personal stories they wouldn't anywhere else." Benson Read the original article on Business Insider This McDonald's restaurant in Taupo, New Zealand, is located inside a decommissioned plane. Jam Travels/Shutterstock Some McDonald's restaurants are found in downright strange locations. One McDonald's restaurant in Taupo, New Zealand, is located inside a decommissioned plane. A glass-walled McDonald's restaurant has received an award for its impressive architecture. Some McDonald's locations go far beyond the typical drive-thru experience, offering unique and unforgettable dining settings that redefine the concept of fast food. From a New Zealand McDonald's located inside a decommissioned plane to multiple restaurants built inside historic homes, McDonald's has transformed iconic and unconventional spaces into mind-blowing dining locations. Many restaurants have also been changed to reflect local laws. In Sedona, Arizona, there's a McDonald's with turquoise arches instead of the iconic golden ones, designed to complement the area's natural red rock scenery, and a glass-walled McDonald's restaurant in Georgia has received an award for its impressive architecture. Here are some of the weirdest and most extraordinary McDonald's restaurants around the globe. The McDonald's location in Downey, California, is the oldest McDonald's restaurant that still looks as it did when it first opened. McDonald's in Downey, California. tishomir/Shutterstock It is the oldest surviving McDonald's location in the world. It doesn't even have a drive-thru instead, customers walk up to the restaurant's windows to order. The location also features a vintage McDonald's sign with the fast-food brand's old mascot. The vintage 60-foot-tall neon sign at the world's oldest-operating McDonald's restaurant in Downey, California. David McNew/Getty Images Speedee, a chef with a hamburger for a head, appeared on the original McDonald's signs alongside the brand's logo of two interlocking golden arches. Some signs also advertised the low price of McDonald's hamburgers just 15 cents at the time. This McDonald's restaurant in Hangzhou, China, is located inside a historic villa that once housed a former Taiwanese leader. McDonald's in Hangzhou, China. Zhang Peng/LightRocket/Getty Images Before being converted into a McDonald's and McCafe restaurant, the building was known as a cultural relic that was the residence of politician Chiang Ching-kuo for one month during the 1940s, CNN reported. The restaurant has been called "the most controversial McDonald's outlet in the world." McDonald's in Hangzhou, China. STR/AFP/Getty Images CNN reported that many locals objected to the restaurant opening inside the historic building, calling it a prime example of Western commercialism invading Chinese culture. However, since opening in 2015, the restaurant has become somewhat of a tourist attraction, welcoming visitors from all over the world. There's also an eye-catching McDonald's on Dongmen Street in Shenzhen, China. The McDonald's on Dongmen Street in Shenzhen, China. Lina Mo/Shutterstock The restaurant opened on October 8, 1990, in Shenzhen's special economic zone. The South China Morning Post reported that on its opening day, the unique McDonald's received over 40,000 customers despite only having a maximum seating capacity of 460. It was the first McDonald's to open in mainland China, which made it a popular destination for locals and tourists at the time. The building occupies three floors and features traditional-looking pagoda-style roofs. The McDonald's on Dongmen Street in Shenzhen, China. Dave Colman/Shutterstock The restaurant's roof is still adorned with the iconic golden arches to make it recognizable to passersby. Author and photojournalist Gary He, who's dined at over 100 McDonald's restaurants around the world, told Business Insider it was one of the most "epic" locations he's ever visited. This McDonald's restaurant in Taupo, New Zealand, is located inside a decommissioned plane. This McDonald's restaurant in Taupo, New Zealand, is located inside a decommissioned plane. Jam Travels/Shutterstock Named one of the "world's coolest McDonald's" on a sign outside the restaurant, customers can enjoy everything from a classic Big Mac to Chicken McNuggets and McCafe beverages inside the plane. There's even airplane-style seating where customers can sit and enjoy their food. McDonald's in Taupo, New Zealand. Fotos593/Shutterstock Visitors to this unique McDonald's restaurant can also view the D3 plane's cockpit. This McDonald's restaurant in Clifton Hill, Melbourne, Australia, is designed in the art-deco style of the 1920s and '30s. Art deco McDonald's in Clifton Hill, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Tim McRae/Getty Images The building was originally the United Kingdom Hotel and was designed by architect James Hastie Wardrop. Constructed between 1937 and 1938, this restaurant has been called one of the most beautiful McDonald's buildings in the world. Built in 1983, the Rock-N-Roll McDonald's in Chicago was known nationwide for its themed decor. Rock-N-Roll McDonald's in Chicago. PRNewsfoto/Getty Images The restaurant, which spanned two floors and was a replica of Ray Kroc's first McDonald's, was filled with music and pop-culture memorabilia. The decor was quintessentially '80s, but in 2017, the fast-food giant decided to fully renovate and modernize the location. An old jukebox is displayed in the Rock-N-Roll McDonald's in 2004. Tim Boyle/Getty Images After the restaurant was partially demolished and modernized, the memorabilia once housed in the restaurant went into the franchise owner's personal collection, The Chicago Tribune reported. Surprisingly, another iconic McDonald's restaurant that has closed for good is the chain's flashy Times Square location. McDonald's in Times Square. Joseph M. Arseneau/Shutterstock Known for its giant marquee featuring thousands of light bulbs, the restaurant perhaps surprisingly closed in 2020 not as a result of the coronavirus pandemic but rather as part of McDonald's regular review of its restaurant portfolio, a spokesperson told NBC. However, there's a new McDonald's restaurant located in Times Square, meaning you can still get your fix. This McDonald's in Sedona, Arizona, is the only one in the world with turquoise arches. McDonald's in Sedona, Arizona. Sheila Fitzgerald/Shutterstock The restaurant, which was built in 1993, is located in one of Arizona's most beautiful cities; it's known for its awe-inspiring red-rock mountains, canyon walls, and pine forests. The building has to adhere to Sedona's strict guidelines on building design and signage. McDonald's in Sedona, Arizona. FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock While the bright yellow color of most McDonald's signs might work in other parts of the country, the turquoise color chosen by the Sedona, Arizona, location blends much better with the surrounding landscape. Sedona also has strict restrictions on the height of buildings and signage, which is why the famous arches are placed lower than at most other McDonald's restaurants. A now-closed McDonald's in Houston was space-themed to pay homage to the nearby NASA space center. McDonald's in Houston, Texas. K I Photography/Shutterstock On top of the large McDonald's restaurant, which also had a play place, was a statue of a NASA astronaut holding a container of fries. The theme continued inside the restaurant. McDonald's in Houston, Texas. Amanda H./Yelp Ronald McDonald and the rest of the "McDonaldland" characters lined the walls wearing space suits and posing against a starry background. The world's first floating McDonald's restaurant opened in St. Louis in 1980. The floating McDonald's restaurant in St. Louis, Missouri, which is no longer there. (Gerald) LEE SNIDER/Getty Images Moored slightly south of the Gateway Arch on the Mississippi River, this McDonald's was the very first McDonald's to be opened on a riverboat. It was open for 20 years before closing in 2000. The McDonald's restaurant in Freeport, Maine, looks much more like a house than a standard fast-food franchise. McDonald's in Freeport, Maine. Gabe Souza/Portland Press Herald/Getty Images Some McDonald's locations attempt to blend in with the local buildings and are designed more sympathetically. This McDonald's location, however, was actually built inside a preexisting colonial mansion that's more than 150 years old. Located in Freeport, a small seaside town in Maine, the building was converted into the town's only McDonald's in 1984. This Parisian McDonald's is located in a historic building built in 1892. McDonald's in Paris, France, on Rue Saint-Lazare. Oleg Anisimov/Shutterstock The restaurant is on Rue Saint-Lazare in Paris, France. Though the building is now a McDonald's, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Referred to as the "flying saucer McDonald's," this unique fast-food restaurant in Roswell, New Mexico, is truly out of this world. McDonald's in Roswell, New Mexico. Nagel Photography/Shutterstock Inspired by Roswell's extraterrestrial history, the interior of the spaceship contains a space-themed play area. This McDonald's restaurant in Kristiansand, Norway, was converted from an old bank building. McDonald's in Kristiansand, Norway. Janus Orlov/Shutterstock Though you might think patrons can stroll up the steps to enter one of the most unusual McDonald's buildings in the world, customers actually enter from a side entrance. A McDonald's in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is similarly grandiose at one point it even had cartoonish fry sculptures on the front of the building. McDonald's in Sao Paulo, Brazil. casadaphoto/Shutterstock The building almost resembles the White House. It's known as the Mequi1000 because it was the 1,000th McDonald's to open in Brazil. However, past its columns and grand facade, customers can still enjoy McDonald's favorites like the Big Mac or Brazilian menu items like the McCrispy Chicken Legend and the cheddar McMelt. A McDonald's location in Porto, Portugal, was previously occupied by Cafe Imperial, a famous coffee shop open in the city since the 1930s. McDonald's in Porto, Portugal. SMAJC/Shutterstock The giant bronze eagle, designed by Portuguese sculptor Henrique Moreira, is usually the first thing customers notice when they approach the restaurant. Inside the restaurant, guests find glamorous details like crystal chandeliers and a massive stained glass window behind the counter. McDonald's in Porto, Portugal. saiko3p/Shutterstock The colorful window is original to the coffee shop that previously occupied the space, and it features beautiful coffee-related scenes. The restaurant has been called the world's most beautiful McDonald's. Independence, Ohio, is home to a McDonald's that's known as one of the fanciest fast-food restaurants in the country. McDonald's in Independence, Ohio. Michael P./Yelp It was designed in accordance with building requirements from the city. Inside, guests are greeted by gold chandeliers and a majestic banister. McDonald's in Independence, Ohio. Michael P./Yelp "The building is unique to any I have ever seen and it is a joy to take a break and walk to the second floor and enjoy the view while I enjoy breakfast or lunch," wrote one TripAdvisor user. This McDonald's is found in Barstow Station, a fake train station in Barstow, California. McDonald's at Barstow Station. Bill C./Yelp The "train station" opened in 1975, and is also occupied by a Starbucks and a Popeyes. The restaurant is surrounded by passenger train cars, which are used as dining areas. McDonald's in Barstow, California. Andrew G./Yelp Despite having a unique theme, the restaurant still serves up McDonald's favorites. A McDonald's restaurant is also found inside the historic Denton House on Long Island, New York. McDonald's in New Hyde Park, New York. Mike C./Yelp The building was originally an 18th-century farmhouse that was converted into a Georgian-style mansion in the 1860s. McDonald's originally intended to knock the building down after it was purchased in 1985. McDonald's in New Hyde Park, New York. Paul D./Yelp However, Atlas Obscura reported that the fast-food giant faced pressure from preservationists to restore the home to its former grandeur. The town then allowed the chain to build onto the existing building to create space for a drive-thru. There's also a McDonald's inside Budapest's beautiful Western Railway Station. McDonald's Nyugati in Budapest. AP PHOTO/NOEMI BRUZAK The station was built in 1877 by the Eiffel Company, which also built the Eiffel Tower. The New York Post reported that the restaurant temporarily closed before being reopened in September after an extensive renovation. This unique McDonald's location can be found in Batumi, Georgia. McDonald's in Batumi, Georgia. Karolis Kavolelis/Shutterstock Located in downtown Batumi, this McDonald's stands out for its reflective glass exterior. Patrons eating inside the restaurant can also gaze out onto the pool of water and manicured grass surrounding the building. Inside, the restaurant's furnishings are similarly modern in design. McDonald's in Batumi, Georgia. Karolis Kavolelis/Shutterstock This location was built in 2013 and won the award for The Best Commercial Building of 2014 by the architecture website ArchDaily. In spring, flowers bloom on the lawns. Seating inside the McDonald's in Batumi, Georgia. Marynka Mandarinka/Shutterstock This makes for a great photo-op or simply a beautiful sight while patrons eat their meals. This McDonald's restaurant in Asheville, North Carolina, was renovated to fit with the local guidelines from the nearby Biltmore Estate. McDonald's in Asheville, North Carolina. Nelson M./Yelp Resembling a ski lodge, the restaurant fits in perfectly in the mountain town. However, the inside is grander than perhaps any outside viewer could expect. The restaurant features red-oak tables, a self-playing baby grand piano, wrought-iron railings, and a fireplace. McDonald's in Asheville, North Carolina. Jackie S./Yelp The interior is also decorated with wallpaper, pieces of art, and hanging chandeliers. The McSki in Salen, Sweden, looks straight out of a fairytale. The exterior of the McSki location in Salen, Sweden. McDonald's Sverige Located in Lindvallen, one of Sweden's premier ski resorts, this one-of-a-kind "ski-thru" McDonald's allows guests to enter the building and order their food without ever even removing their skis. Gary He told BI that it was the most unusual location he had ever visited. "The air is so clean and crisp it's like being on top of the world," He said. "When I visited, it wasn't even busy. It was just me, the McSki, and the mountains. I was just hanging out and enjoying myself." Read the original article on Business Insider Simply Recipes / Getty Images Ive never been much of a breakfast person. As a night owl whose preferred working hours are far later than they should be, I like to slowly and gently ease into my day. Before kids, that meant grabbing a cup of coffee and listening to a podcast on my hour-long commute to the office. Now, as a work-from-home parent to an early-rising five-year-old, that's no longer my norm. Mornings are a hectic rush to get out the door as quickly and efficiently as possible, and that requires stocking our kitchen with easy, preschooler-approved breakfast items. One such item is Greek yogurt. The tangy, protein-packed snack has been a household staple since my son was an infant. Over the years, weve tried nearly every brand and flavor available at our local supermarkets, and one has stood out amongst the very crowded field of both dairy and non-dairy contenders: Trader Joes Guava Passion Fruit Greek Yogurt. Simply Recipes / Patty Lee Why I Love Trader Joes Guava Passion Fruit Greek Yogurt I first became a fan of Trader Joes Guava Passion Fruit Greek Yogurt when I was pregnant with my son. It was a delicious breakfast that not only felt filling, but I could also take on the go if I was running late. I loved the yogurt so much, it quickly morphed into an anytime foodI would dig into a cup as a midday snack that satisfied my sweet tooth and also late at night when pregnancy hunger pangs struck. My son is just as big of a fan. When we head on our bi-monthly trips to Trader Joes, hell make a beeline for the dairy case and bypass all the other yogurts for the guava passion fruit. We love both the texture and flavor of the yogurtits lusciously thick and creamy with just the right amount of tartness. My kid has always loved sour foods (the first time he tried a wedge of lime as a baby, he enthusiastically signed for more) so this yogurt ranks high on his list of favorite foods. The notes of guava and passion fruit are subtle, providing just the right amount of tropical fragrance. It doesnt taste artificial or perfume-y, which can sometimes happen with flavored yogurts. And unlike some other passion fruit yogurts Ive tried, it doesnt contain seeds, a potential choking hazard for kids (and source of teeth injuries for adultsask me how I know). Simply Recipes / Patty Lee Tips for Serving This Yogurt Most of the time we enjoy the guava passion fruit yogurt as is, but its even better with a heaping handful of granola. I highly recommend another Trader Joes product, the Toasted Coconut Granola, which further enhances the island vibes. I can also attest that a cup of this yogurt easily sates dessert cravings. Drop in a few dark chocolate chips, spoon into a mold to make froyo popsicles, or use it in any of those trendy TikTok recipes that call for yogurtthe guava passion fruit would be absolutely delightful as the base of the viral yogurt clusters or swirled on top of bread for custard yogurt toast. Simply Recipes / Patty Lee To learn more about our approach to product recommendations, see HERE. Read the original article on SIMPLYRECIPES WASHINGTON The Biden administration on Tuesday announced new sanctions against Russians accused of producing a bogus video spreading sexual assault allegations against Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz. Walz, the governor of Minnesota, was accused in October by a purported former student of inappropriate touching and kissing while Walz was a school teacher but the allegation, which used the real name of a former student at the school, fell apart when the actual alum came forward and said it was an AI fake. The Treasury Department said its sanctioning the Moscow-based Center for Geopolitical Expertise and its director Valery Mikhaylovich Korovin over the video, which remains viewable on X meaning the targets will have any assets frozen that are within the reach of US officials. The Biden administration announced new sanctions Tuesday to punish the alleged creators of a video falsely accusing Walz of sexual assault. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Walz, the governor of Minnesota, was accused in October by a purported former student of inappropriate touching and kissing while he was a school teacher. AP CGE manipulated a video it used to produce baseless accusations concerning a 2024 vice presidential candidate in an effort to sow discord amongst the U.S. electorate, the Treasury Department said in its announcement. The entity also allegedly created a network of phony news websites to distribute doctored content. CGE and its personnel used generative AI tools to quickly create disinformation that would be distributed across a massive network of websites designed to imitate legitimate news outlets to create false corroboration between the stories, as well as to obfuscate their Russian origin, the department said. The allegation fell apart when the actual alum came forward. X/MattMetro The GRU provided CGE and a network of U.S.-based facilitators with financial support to: build and maintain its AI-support server; maintain a network of at least 100 websites used in its disinformation operations; and contribute to the rent cost of the apartment where the server is housed. The Biden administration also announced sanctions Tuesday against an Iranian group, the Cognitive Design Production Center, for allegedly plotting influence operations designed to incite socio-political tensions among the U.S. electorate in the lead up to the 2024 U.S. elections. Russian judge Olesya Mendeleeva additionally faces new US sanctions for ordering the detention of Moscow city councilor Alexei Gorinov. Tingey Injury Law Firm | Unsplash (The Center Square) There are a handful of consumer protection laws Californians will see in 2025. Come Jan. 1, these five bills will take effect: AB 2017 - Declined transaction fees: Proposed by Sen. Timothy Grayson, this bill will prohibit state-chartered banks and credit unions to charge account holders a fee if a transaction is declined due to an account balance being too low. This law codifies a proposed rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. NSF and overdraft fees are extremely high and bear no resemblance whatsoever to the actual costs to the financial institution of processing NSF and overdraft fees, reads a statement from the California Low-Income Consumer Coalition and East Bay Community Law Center. In other words, NSF fees are not proportional to their actual cost to the financial institution whatsoever. SB 1075 - Overdraft fees: Also targeting banks and credit unions, this bill proposed by Sen. Steven Bradford sets limits on the amount account holders can be charged in overdraft fees. The bill also requires the credit union to provide a notice to the member if they assess a fee, giving them a five-day grace period to fix the overdrafts before the fee is charged. While the advanced notice and the ability to rectify the overdrafts take effect in the new year, the part of the law capping the maximum fee to be charged at $14 will not take effect until Jan. 1, 2026. Low-income workers across California are struggling to make ends meet, and surprise overdraft fees can be a major financial setback, reads a statement from the California School Employees Association. SB 1075 offers critical protections by providing our members who bank at credit unions with a five-day grace period to fix overdrafts before fees are charged. This breathing room can mean the difference between putting food on the table or getting hit with a penalty that throws their budgets off track. SB 1061 - Medical debt: Sen. Monique Limons bill prohibits agencies from including medical debt on an individuals credit report and impacting their credit score. Additionally, the bill grants more time to individuals to address medical bills before debt collection and reporting can take place. I am proud to author legislation to provide relief to Californians suffering from the burden of medical debt, Limon said. No Californian should be unable to secure housing, a loan, or even a job because they accessed necessary medical care. With this new law, California is stepping up to protect consumers impacted by the effects of medical debt. The California Association of Collectors and the Receivable Management Association International oppose the bill, noting that it would cause disruptions in the reporting, processing and collection of debts, saying it would be detrimental to consumers, medical providers and the business community. [It] is so broadly written that it runs the risk of reclassifying other loan products, including home equity loans and banking lines of credit, as medical debt based on consumer action, reads a statement from the association. Furthermore, it pulls into the definition of medical debt specialty health-based credit cards that are issued to consumers with prime credit ratings that are primarily used for the purchase of cosmetic, veterinary, and personal fitness products. The voiding of debt is a tremendous overreach and would amount to an improper taking. AB 2863 - Subscription traps: Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo proposed this bill to strengthen consumer rights around subscription services and free trials. Beginning on Jan. 1, companies will be required to get clear consent before charging customers after a free trial ends and send annual reminders about recurring changes. Additionally, customers must receive advanced notice of price changes so they can decide whether to continue with the subscription. The Craft Wine Association says that the alcohol subscription services should be exempt from this bill. The current language of AB 2863 captures a wide range of business models, including those that do not fit the problematic practices the bill aims to address, reads a statement from the association. Wine clubs typically do not adhere to a fixed billing amount or schedule. Members often customize their shipments, adjust quantities, and change selections based on personal preferences, seasonal availability, and vintage variations. Our members are small independent producers who would be disproportionately affected by the additional compliance costs mandated by the legislation. SB 1490 - Food delivery apps: Proposed by Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, this bill will create further regulations for food delivery apps. This will ensure that the food delivery platforms cant misrepresent fees. Additionally, the platform will not be able to keep a restaurant on their app without permission and there must be a straightforward way for a restaurant to be removed from the platform if they choose. This means local businesses have more control, and there will be more honest pricing and disclosures when ordering food or beverages online, reads a statement from Gov. Gavin Newsom. Courtesy of the Peterson family From left, dad Larry, Hadley and mom Kelly Indiana couple Larry and Kelly Peterson have spina bifida, which they felt made them the right parents to raise a child with the same needs. But they say they faced some backlash from agencies who hadnt worked with adoptive parents with disabilities Now they hope their story will inspire others with disabilities who are considering adoption Small but mighty, 6-year-old Hadley Peterson has been a spitfire since the day she was born. This one is sassy, sarcastic, funny and that eye roll, mom Kelly Peterson tells PEOPLE in an interview at home in Cedar Lake, Ind., as she watches her daughter in her full dramatic glory. Four years ago, Kelly and Larry Peterson adopted Hadley. But it wasnt easy. The family says one of their biggest obstacles was one of the things they all have in common: spina bifida, or birth defects affecting the spine that can result in mobility and other issues. Every agency that was willing to work with us had only dealt with families where one person had a disability, not two, says Kelly, a 46-year-old special education teacher. We were warned it would take a whole lot longer to be matched because of our disability. But Dr. Sue Mukherjee, medical director of rehabilitation services at Shriners Childrens Chicago, where Hadley is a patient, says firsthand experience with the condition is a plus. Living life with spina bifida is complicated, Mukherjee says. There is a lot of medical care and follow-up. Who better to teach a baby with spina bifida how to grow up to be independent and to manage their own care? the doctor tells PEOPLE. Courtesy of the Peterson family Peterson family from left, mom Kelly, Hadley and dad Larry About 1 in 2,875 babies is born with spina bifida in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And while the CDC says that no two people with spina bifida are exactly alike, many people with the condition have shared experiences. It takes a while for families to get onboard when they have no prior experience with a child with spina bifida, Mukherjee says, adding of the Peterson family: I thought it was lovely in this case how two adults with spina bifida found each other, so they bring their own lifetime of experience living with the condition. Hadley has brought so much love, joy and fun into our lives since the moment she entered the world, says dad Larry, also 46, who works at a car care call center. She continues to amaze us as she grows and becomes more independent. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The couple and their daughter were all born with myelomeningocele, which is the most serious type of spina bifida and can cause moderate to severe disabilities, such as not being able to move your legs, according to the CDC. Each of the Petersons has different vertebrae that are impacted, leading to different amounts of mobility: Kelly is completely paralyzed from the waist down, with some feeling in parts of her upper legs and thighs; Hadley and Larry both have movement in their legs. All three use wheelchairs. My husband can stand with support or holding onto something, and can actually throw his [wheelchair] in the trunk of the car and hold on to the car to get to the drivers seat, Kelly says. For Hadley, shes had a little more difficulty, but is able to move her left leg. Courtesy of the Peterson family From left, mom Kelly, Hadley and dad Larry Peterson What makes their family work, says Kelly, is not just the commonality of their disability but also the way both she and Larry were brought up by parents without spina bifida. We were raised that our disability wasn't a hindrance, that our disability wasn't the center of our world, Kelly says. It was just a part of who we are but not all of who we were. The Petersons first met when they were just 10, at camp, and discovered they were both born on the same day, Dec. 22, 1978. They later reconnected as teens and even dated but broke up when Kelly left for college. Fate, or more specifically social media, brought the two back together after being apart for a decade: "I happened to be on MySpace and he popped up on MySpace profile," recalls Kelly, who was then married. "So we started talking through there and for several years just talked." Later, once Kelly was divorced, they started dating and have been together ever since. With [Larry], theres things we dont have to explain, she says. They dont have to be understood because we both have gone through it. That gives us a level of ease and comfort. After they married in 2016, Kelly and Larry decided to adopt. Courtesy of the Peterson family Hadley Peterson In 2018, they submitted their application for Hadley through the organization Special Angels just one day before it was due. They were presented in October of 2018, matched that November and Hadley was born on Dec. 14, 2018. The Petersons met with Hadleys biological parents on the day she was born and saw her the day after. But it wasnt until September 2020 that she was officially adopted, in part because of paperwork and other regulatory steps. Kelly says they were determined to adopt and now want to educate prospective adoptive parents with disabilities on how they, too, can power through. "We were warned it could take longer because there is that stigma out there that two people with a disability can't do this," Kelly says. "But we were realistic about what we could and couldn't do." "I had a Christian agency that flat out told me, 'We don't work with people with disabilities,' " she says. "I said, 'Well, that's not very Christian of you.' " Courtesy of the Peterson family When Larry, left, and Kelly Peterson first met at spina bifida camp when they were just 10 Despite the ups and downs, the Petersons both felt Hadley was a perfect match for them because of their deep understanding of the issues she will be facing in life. In addition to their spina bifida diagnoses, Kelly has worked as a teacher with children with special needs for the past 24 years. Hadleys other medical conditions include apraxia, a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult to talk, and 22Q, a chromosome disorder that can cause heart problems and other health issues. Courtesy of the Peterson family Hadley Peterson We dont have experience in all of these things, but I know what to look for, how to help her and how to advocate for her, Kelly says. (Hadley also has autism, and Kelly says she was the one who pushed for that evaluation and diagnostic support.) Though the family is open and eager to spread awareness about special needs adoptions, they want to make clear that were just living our lives like anyone else. We dont see our lives as that different, even though when we stop and think about it, we know it is, Kelly says. But when youre living day to day, we just dont see it that way. Read the original article on People FILE - Raul Ernesto Cruz Leon, who admitted to setting the bomb at a Cuban hotel in 1997, speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in Havana, Cuba, Feb. 8, 2011. (AP Photo/Franklin Reyes, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) HAVANA (AP) Cuban authorities released a Salvadoran man who was convicted of participating in a string of hotel bombings on the island in 1997, a government-run news site said. The Cubadebate website reported Monday in a lengthy editorial that Raul Ernesto Cruz Leon was freed after completing a 30-year prison sentence, but added that the men who planned the attacks have not been brought to justice. The liberation of Cruz Leon today, after completing his sentence, exemplifies the coherence of Cubas legal system, Cubadebate said. However we cannot forget that the intellectual authors of these terrorist acts have lived and died in the United States without facing justice. In 1997, several hotels and bars in Cuba were bombed by enemies of Fidel Castros communist government, looking to undermine the islands tourism industry. An Italian tourist was killed in one of the attacks. The bombings were allegedly masterminded by Luis Posada Carriles, a Cuban exile who sought refuge in the United States in 2005 and died in 2018 without facing prosecution for the attacks. Posada Carriles discussed the bombings with The New York Times in a 1998 interview, saying that he lamented the death of Italian tourist Fabio Di Celmo, while adding that the attacks were meant to frighten tourists from visiting the island. The attacks happened at a time when Castro was looking to develop new sources of income for his cash-strapped government, which was reeling from the economic impact of U.S. sanctions and the collapse of the Soviet Union. In a 2011 interview with The Associated Press, Cruz Leon confessed to placing a bomb in the Hotel Copacabana that killed the Italian tourist. Cruz Leon said he had received the explosives from Francisco Chavez Abarca, another Salvadoran mercenary. Chavez Abarca was arrested in Venezuela in 2010 and extradited to Cuba, where he was also convicted for his role in the attacks. I am simply a soldier who was sent to a war that I did not belong to, and in which I should have not gotten involved, Cruz Leon told AP in the 2011 interview. Cruz Leon was initially sentenced to death. But his penalty was reduced to 30 years in prison in 2010. Under Cubas legal system, 10 months in prison is equivalent to a year of sentencing, which explains his release in 2024. Cuban officials have not provided further information on where Cruz Leon has gone since being released, or made any other statements about his release. Cubadebates article on Monday reiterated demands made by the Cuban government for the island nation to be removed from a U.S. government list of nations that sponsor terrorist groups. Cuba was removed from the list in 2015 by the Obama administration as relations warmed between the countries, but it was once again designated a state that sponsors terrorism by the first Trump administration. Cubas latest inclusion on the list happened after its government refused a request by Colombia to arrest rebel leaders from that country who had been in Havana for peace talks. Colombia's new government run by leftist leader Gustavo Petro has withdrawn that request and asked the U.S. to remove Cuba from the list of terrorist states. The U.S. list of terrorist states is hypocrisy, the article said. Protesters in New York gathered Monday at separate demonstrations in Manhattan and Albany, holding up signs reading Black Lives Matter and Justice for Robert Brooks days after a disturbing video of the Black inmates fatal beating at the hands of correctional officers was released. Robert Brooks, a 43-year-old man serving a 12-year sentence for assault, died in the early hours of December 10 after he was beaten by at least three officers at Marcy Correctional Facility, an all-male state prison in north Albany. His death has enraged people across the country, along with inmates relatives and activists, one of whom called the incident a symptom of a decades-long incarceration system designed to dehumanize the people it takes and puts behind the wall. This isnt just about Robert Brooks, Jamaica Miles, the co-founder of All Of Us, an anti-racist organization based in Schenectady, told CNN affiliate WRGB. There are family members standing with us right now whose loved ones are in that same prison. The FBI and US Department of Justice are reviewing the case, and the New York Attorney Generals Office of Special Investigations has launched an investigation into Brooks death. Authorities have not released a cause of death for Brooks. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has said she was outraged and horrified by Brooks senseless killing and announced she would appoint a new superintendent at Marcy Correctional Facility and expedite $400 million to install fixed cameras and distribute body-worn cameras at all Department of Corrections and Community Service (DOCCS) facilities. Hochul directed corrections agency Commissioner Daniel Martuscello to appoint Bennie Thorpe as the new permanent superintendent of Marcy Correctional Facility, her office said. Thorpe, now superintendent at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in the Hudson Valley, has over 20 years of experience in corrections and is a career DOCCS employee who has never served at Marcy or nearby facilities, giving him expertise and a fresh perspective on what must be done, the Democrats office said. Heres what we know: Robert Brooks is carried by correctional officers at the Marcy Correctional Facility. - NYS Attorney General What the video shows Brooks was transferred from Mohawk Correctional Facility to Marcy Correctional Facility on the morning of December 9, according to New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, who released footage of the beating Friday. The eight videos, dated from the evening of December 9 and reviewed by CNN, were taken from body-worn cameras on four different officers. They begin with Brooks face down with his hands cuffed behind his back being carried into a medical examination room by three officers. It is unclear what led up to this moment. One officer appears to shove a white material in Brooks mouth as another officer holds Brooks by the throat. The officer then repeatedly punches Brooks in the face, while another officer punches him in the groin. One officer is seen striking Brooks with a shoe. Two officers then pull Brooks to a seated upright position at the edge of an exam table one officer holding Brooks by his neck before laying him flat on his back. Another officer then puts his foot on Brooks lower torso, while another officer hits him again in the chest. The officer who struck Brooks with his leg is then seen restraining Brooks legs before punching him in the buttocks approximately three times. He and another officer appear to yank Brooks up to the edge of the exam table once again, his face visibly bloody. Brooks appears to speak before an officer punches him in the chest again. Two officers then grab Brooks by the collar of his shirt and shoulder area, picking him off the table before forcing him to the back right corner of the room and holding him up against a wall as other officers look on. Minutes later, one of the officers gives Brooks a sternum rub a technique used to assess if a person is conscious as another officer pulls off what appears to be Brooks green inmate uniform. The footage ends with Brooks no longer handcuffed, lying on the table, motionless in his underwear. Who are the officers involved? The Department of Corrections named 14 staff connected to Brooks death. As of December 31, none of the officers have been charged with wrongdoing. CNN has not been able to confirm the specific identities of the officers shown in the video, or what role each named person is alleged to have had. The correctional officers union, which typically speaks on behalf of prison employees, issued a statement that described the footage as incomprehensible to say the least and certainly not reflective of the great work that the vast majority of our membership conducts every day. CNN has reached out to the named officers for comment. None of the officers or their representatives have commented since the video came to light. At least three of the officers involved in Brooks beating were previously accused of assault, a review of court documents obtained by CNN shows. Sgt. Glenn Trombly and Officer Anthony Farina were named in a complaint filed in federal court in 2022, based on a 2020 incident at Marcy prison. The complaint alleges as another correctional officer beat a handcuffed inmate at the correctional facility, Trombly and Farina looked on and failed to intervene in any manner to prevent or stop the beating, leaving the plaintiff with a permanent facial deformity. The case is pending. The plaintiffs attorney told CNN it is office policy not to comment on pending cases. Farina resigned from his role at the Marcy Correctional Facility after Brooks death, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision told CNN Monday. A different officer, Nicholas Anzalone, who was named by the department, is also named in a separate federal complaint in 2022, stating he joined an assault on an inmate by another correctional officer at the same facility. The complaint alleges the officer was involved in a cover-up fabricating disciplinary charges against the inmate, who was left with substantial physical and mental injuries. The case is ongoing. The inmate was brutally assaulted in 2020 at Marcy CF, the same prison where Robert Brooks was just murdered (involving) one of the same corrections officers, the inmates attorney, Katie Rosenfeld, told CNN. Her client thought he would die that day, as officers punched and kicked him to a bloody heap. The officers then lied to cover up the beating, Rosenfelds statement says. If DOCCS (the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision) had done anything about the officers at Marcy who it knew were routinely terrorizing incarcerated people, Mr. Brooks would still be alive today, Rosenfeld added. 2022 watchdog report calls out physical assaults, racial discrimination at facility A 2022 report about Marcy from the Correctional Association of New York, which provides independent oversight of prisons in the state, notes multiple problems at the facility, including allegations of physical assaults by staff on inmates and pervasive allegations of racial discrimination. Around 80% of inmates surveyed in the report said they had seen or been subjected to verbal, physical, or sexual abuse by staff. Inmates reported experiencing seemingly random assaults from the staff as well as targeted attacks meted out as punishment, the report found. In a statement at the time, the organizations executive director, Jennifer Scaife, said, A number of issues at Marcy troubled us during our monitoring visit, including pervasive allegations of racial discrimination, mistreatment by staff, and non-adherence to the requirements of HALT (the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act). The report recommended the Office of Special Investigations and Inspector General investigate the widespread claims of abuse at Marcy. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision told CNN in a statement that they have addressed or are in the process of addressing the majority of the recommendations contained in the 2022 CANY report on Marcy Correctional Facility. The New York Office of Inspector General investigated and took action following the release of the CANY report, a spokesperson for the office told CNN. Citing confidentiality in revealing any active investigations, the office said it responded to CANYs briefing in its recent public reports into the misapplication of drug testing, the unconscionable persistence of racial disparities in disciplinary infractions, and the implementation of the HALT legislation intended to limit the use of solitary confinement. The inspector generals office visited New Yorks 42 prisons, training sessions for corrections staff and held quarterly meetings with CANY. Every specific allegation from incarcerated New Yorkers, correctional staff, and CANY alike is thoroughly and timely reviewed by OIG leadership, said a spokesperson for the office. How experts are responding It seemed possible Brooks sustained a fatal spinal cord injury when officers lifted him from the table by his shirt, Dr. Jeremy Faust, an emergency physician at Brigham and Womens Hospital and an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, told CNN. My jaw hit the floor when I saw it, Faust said, because it looked like just enough force in the right direction to do real damage. Although Brooks was previously alert, he does not seem to move or react to stimuli after officers pick him up. The way officers lifted Brooks hyperextended his neck, Faust explained. This could have caused a devastating spinal cord injury, the result of which would be immediate or almost immediate paralysis of the body, including the respiratory muscles, he said. Brooks appeared to be compliant and was not posing a threat when officers were using force against him, which is considered excessive by standard police protocol, one law enforcement expert told CNN. Just because someone is handcuffed does not mean they cannot be subjected to force. However and this is a big however if someone is no longer a direct threat to the officers and is complying with instructions, it would certainly be excessive to strike them, choke them, et cetera, said Bryce Peterson, adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a senior research scientist at the Center for Justice Research and Innovation. Peterson said potential excessive use of force is evident in the video when officers are cleaning blood off Mr. Brooks face and then begin to strike him and continue to strike and grab him for the next 30 seconds, Peterson said. A US Supreme Court ruling in 1992 sets the standard for police use of force, said Peterson, who was part of a team that later did the first evaluation of a correctional body-camera program at a jail in Loudoun County, Virginia. The ruling established force is only justified when it is used to maintain or establish discipline, he said. Peterson said its notable from the footage of the Brooks incident that he was already injured when he first appears in the video, and the investigation will need to determine whether his injuries were from a prior use of force by correctional officers, or an inmate-on-inmate altercation, Peterson said. CNNs Chris Boyette, Caroll Alvarado, Polo Sandoval and Tanika Gray contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com SpaceX CEO Elon Musk visits Capitol Hill to speak with lawmakers about the external audit committee President-elect Donald Trump appointed him to lead. (Al DragoBloomberg/Getty Images) Elon Musk met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss an agreement that would see the South African government loosen rules regarding Black ownership that impede SpaceX from offering Starlink internet services. Musk is turning his newfound influence in U.S. politics to his homeland of South Africa. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss easing certain regulations that would allow for Starlink satellites to operate legally in the country, according to Bloomberg. Specifically, Musk would like to see South Africa loosen or remove a rule that would require Starlink to be at least 30% Black-owned by sharing equity with local partners. A possible work-around that South African officials are considering would see foreign companies like SpaceX make guarantees for levels of local investment and jobs. In exchange for updating these regulations, Ramaphosa hopes for broader investment in South Africa from Musks multiple companies. In particular, the South African president wants Tesla to invest in battery production in the country, according to Bloomberg. SpaceX and a spokesperson for Ramaphosa did not respond to requests for comment. Efforts to find an agreement between the South African government and SpaceX have increased recently, given Musks prominent role in U.S. politics after President-elect Donald Trumps victory in the November election. Throughout the election, Musk spent over $200 million to assist Trumps campaign. In the weeks since Trumps win, Musk has taken on a prominent role in certain governmental affairs. For example, Musk has been put in charge of an external committee meant to audit government spending. He also attended calls with foreign leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Starlink, which offers broadband services, is often subject to heavy regulations from countries around the world that aim to protect local internet service providers. Still, some countries have embraced the service as a means to increase internet access. In Africa, Starlink is available in Nigeria, Ghana, and Botswana. In November, Starlink paused new sign-ups for its services in Africa, citing a demand surge, according to an X post from Musk. Despite having to battle against entrenched telecom companies and internet service providers that are often protected by legislation in their local markets, Starlink has made significant strides in expanding its reach. It is now found in more than 100 countries, and some of themsuch as Ukraine and Yemenare at the center of global geopolitics. SpaceX has also become a critical defense contractor for the U.S. government, a role which is under further scrutiny given Musks close relationship with Trump. South Africa is not the first country to pitch Musk on a deal that combined expanded Starlink access and Tesla battery production. Indonesia, which uses Starlink to provide rural parts of Bali with internet access, asked Musk to build an electric vehicle battery plant for Tesla, a long-held priority for former Indonesian President Joko Widodo. However, he ultimately rebuffed the governments offer because Indonesia was too far from Teslas manufacturing plants, according to the Wall Street Journal. But Indonesian officials were not discouraged from trying to reach a deal with Musk. They are now set to offer a proposal to build data centers for the tech moguls artificial intelligence company, xAI. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com If theres one CEO who embodies the phrase You cant make an omelet without cracking a few eggs, its surely Ryanair boss Michael OLeary. OLeary has defended his outspoken ways in the past. In March, he summarized to the Wall Street Journal: The funny thing weve learned over the years is actually the bad publicity sells far more seats than the good. However, the Ryanair CEO admitted the tactic wasnt without its negatives. OLeary conceded in September that Ryanairs depressed share price in Europe relative to its American depository receipts in the U.S. may have something to do with his public image. In Ryanair theres always some news flow. Were fighting some union or some minister or Im calling some minister an idiot or theyre calling me an idiot. Nevertheless, OLeary didnt pull back in 2024. Here we recap his biggest battles as he fought to return Ryanair to a share price that would secure him his 100 million bonus. Wizz Airs marketing scam OLeary has long used the tactic of name-calling as part of his wide-ranging battle against rival budget airlines. Most recently, he was perturbed by an astute offer rolled out by Wizz Air in August that would allow passengers to take unlimited flights with a 499 annual subscription. There were some loopholes, most notably that flights could only be booked within 72 hours of departure. It prompted OLeary to dismiss the promotion as a bit of a marketing scam. You can fly as often as you like, but you pay 9 every time you book a flight, and you can only book the flight three days before departure, he told Newstalk. Most of the flights will be full; therell be no seat availability. Its an interesting marketing stunt, but thats all it is. OLearys comments sparked outrage from Wizz Airs chief corporate and ESG officer, Yvonne Moynihan. The comments of Mr. OLeary were not only provocative but they were also inaccurate, said Moynihan. Boeing One obstacle OLeary has faced this year is a shortage of planes from Ryanairs supplier Boeing. The plane-making giant was thrown into turmoil at the start of 2024 when an Alaska Airlines Boeing jet suffered a blowout mid-flight, forcing the temporary grounding of 200 737 Max 9s. The blowout caused chaos at Boeing, leading to supply-chain hiccups and regulatory hurdles that had a knock-on effect on Ryanair. Deliveries fell below expectations, prompting OLeary to give some words of advice to Boeings leadership team, namely: Never put a pilot in charge of an airline. In August, OLeary said Boeing management continue to disappoint us as deliveries still lagged. His 2025 plans were also disrupted when Boeing workers went on strike in September, meaning he was likely to receive a fraction of the planes he ordered for next year. Wetherspoons boss Tim Martin OLeary got into an unintended scrap in August with Sir Tim Martin, the boss of budget U.K. pub chain Wetherspoons, after taking aim at drunken passengers on Ryanair flights. The Ryanair boss called for a two-drink limit at U.K. airports to stem a rising tide of air rage on his flights, which he said were occurring at a rate of once per week over the summer. Martin, whose Wetherspoons chain operates pubs in U.K. airports, hit back at OLeary, claiming Wetherspoons had already stopped serving shooters like Jager bombs in its airport pubs. Ryanair in contrast offers a discount on Irish whiskey if a double is ordered, Martin said. It seemed OLeary called Martins bluff, however, vowing to introduce his own two-drink limit on Ryanair flights if airport pubs followed suit. OLeary conceded drug use among passengers was also a problem contributing to air rage. OLearys passenger-cap gripe A thorn in OLearys side has long been the limited number of passengers he can fly out of Ryanairs main airport in Dublin. Dublin Airport runs a passenger cap of 32 million per year, even though the building of a second runway allows for 60 million passengers annually. In a warning to passengers, OLeary said he would make a fortune over Christmas because low supply of seats meant Ryanair could charge in excess of 1,000 for a flight, adding the company would make out like bandits. In August, OLeary said he was unlikely to achieve his 100 million bonus while the passenger cap stayed in place. OLeary can obtain his bonus if Ryanairs share price stays above 21 for 28 consecutive days, or if annual profits surpass 2.2 billion. Other airlines have lamented the passenger cap, with Wizz Air refusing to fly from the airport owing to the restriction. Irish teachers A more unusual battering ram for OLeary in 2024 was the profession of teaching. OLeary made national news in Ireland yet again in November while canvassing for the center-right political party Fine Gael, criticizing the current demographic of the countrys leaders. The Dail is full of teachers. Nothing wrong with teachers. I love teachers, but I wouldnt generally employ a lot of teachers to go out and get things done. Clarifying his comments on Newstalk, OLeary said, I want to see more people enter the Dail from private enterprise, from the private sector, and thats the energy we need if were going to fix the infrastructure challenges we face, he said. Irelands prime minister, Simon Harris, called OLearys comments crass and ill-informed. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Tributes are pouring in for former President Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday at the age of 100. His life and legacy will be celebrated in Washington, D.C., Atlanta and in Carters hometown of Plains, Georgia, over the coming days. Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Ernie Suggs covered Carter and the work of the Carter Center -- which Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn Carter founded after his defeat in the 1980 election -- in advancing human rights and alleviating human suffering. PHOTO: A sign is displayed in the small downtown, one day after the death of former US President Jimmy Carter in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, Dec. 30, 2024. (Erik S Lesser/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock) On Monday, ABC News' Stephanie Ramos spoke to Suggs about the former president's work, his character and his relationship with the people of Georgia. ABC NEWS: Now we want to turn to someone who knew Carter well. Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Ernie Suggs covered Carter and developed a close personal relationship with the former president. Sir, thank you so much for speaking with us as we bid farewell today. What are some of your personal memories that you're remembering the most? SUGGS: Well, thank you for having me, for one. Personally, he was the person that I have always looked up to. I always told a story about, in 1976, my mother voted for Jimmy Carter. She campaigned for him in Brooklyn, New York. And we voted in PS 241 in Brooklyn, New York. And I always told him that story. So one of the last times we talked, I didn't mention it, you know. For some reason, I just didn't mention it, I don't know what we were talking about. And he mentioned it. He said "How's your mother doing? How's she doing?" And I said -- at the time my mother wasn't doing too well -- "She's sick." She had been battling dementia. And he told me about, you know, he reiterated the work that Rosalynn Carter was doing with mental health. And he asked me if my mother could talk on the phone. And I said, sure, you know, she could talk. And he called my mother and he called my mother out of the blue to talk to her, just to kind of give her some words of encouragement as she was dealing with this illness and an illness that eventually his wife Rosalynn had. So I think that's the kind of example of a person who's compassionate, who loves humanity, who loves people. And I tell that story as if it's unique, but it's not because he has done that kind of work and he's done those kind of things for so many people, for so many, for 100 years. And for that I'm proud. ABC NEWS: Absolutely. Such a wonderful example of what type of man he was and what type of life he led. You touched on this a bit, that in the decades after he left office, Jimmy Carter continued to carry so much influence around the world and he continued to do so much work. As you covered him in those years, what else stood out to you from that work that he was able to do over, over really decades? SUGGS: One of the things that he said he wanted to see before he died was the eradication of the Guinea worm disease. And that disease is down to about four people now. And when he started this, thousands of people were suffering from this horrible disease. Now it's down to four, about four people. So it's going to be eradicated in a couple of years. So this is the kind of work that Jimmy Carter did post-presidency. The first line of his obituary that I wrote says that he was the 39th president of the United States. I'm sure that's the first line that you wrote in your obituary. But I think that if you ask him, his most enduring legacy is what he did after the presidency and what he continued to do up until his 100th birthday to kind of promote humanity and to promote decency and to give to others. ABC NEWS: And on that list of achievements, and you've written about some of those achievements, you've written that Carter grew up or grew into a politician who shaped race relations, but before that, he was shaped by, by then growing up in the Jim Crow South. So how do you think those early experiences shaped his worldview and his approach to others throughout his life? SUGGS: I think that had a tremendous effect. He was born in 1924. We have to understand that. So he was born prior to the Great Depression. He was born in the segregated South. One perfect example was in 1954 when he left the Navy to return to Plains to take over his father's business. He was the only white businessman in Plains, Georgia, who was not a member of the Citizens' Council. We know what the Citizens' Council is -- it's basically the Ku Klux Klan. They came to his store and said, "Hey, we're going to boycott you unless you join the Citizens' Council. We will even pay your $5." And he said, "I'd rather throw my $5 down the toilet then give you $5 to join this racist organization." So even in 1954, even owning a business in that rural, tiny Plains, Georgia, he rebuked the temptation to join basically the klan or the Citizens' Council because of who he was and how he grew up and the people who was around him when he grew up. ABC NEWS: And after a hundred years, we're hearing so many stories, so many new stories in the last 24 hours about his life -- that's a story I hadn't heard before. So thank you for sharing that. Since news of his passing last night, you've been speaking with people in Plains, Georgia, where Jimmy Carter is from and in other parts of Georgia. What are you hearing from them? What are they sharing with you? SUGGS: People in Plains, Georgia, if you come by this town, they love him. If you go to anyone's house in Plains, Georgia, they have a story about Jimmy Carter or "Mr. Jimmy," as they called him. Everyone's house you go to has a photograph of Jimmy Carter, and it's not a photograph of him from the White House or it's not a standard portrait. It's a photograph that they've taken with their Polaroid cameras or their selfies of him on their porch, eating peanuts and laughing and joking around, shucking corn. So that's who he was. He was Mr. Jimmy. He was truly a man of the people, who happened to one day have served as the 39th president of the United States. ABC NEWS: He really was a man of the people. What a remarkable life and what an impact Jimmy Carter had on this country and those who had the pleasure of meeting him and knowing him. Ernie Suggs, thank you so much for speaking with us today. Thank you so much for your insights. SUGGS: Thank you very much for having me. Former President Jimmy Carters legacy in his native Georgia, remembered originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Eduardo Javier Ordonez Godoy, 35, was arrested in Oklahoma City on Christmas Day. A Honduras gang member who was illegally in the US giggled as he admitted kidnapping a young Texas woman at gunpoint and threatening to pimp her out and sell her organs, according to cops. Eduardo Javier Ordonez Godoy, 35, was busted after a 22-year-old woman was abducted by a masked man at 4:45 a.m. Christmas Eve and driven around for nearly an hour before being left tied to a tree, according to charging documents obtained by Fox 4 News. Godoy had been arrested before for similar crimes and deported back to Honduras, where he admits he is affiliated with a violent gang, police told the outlet. The illegal immigrant then allegedly confessed to the abduction, showing no remorse for a crime that the unidentified victim said left her fearing for her life. Eduardo Javier Ordonez Godoy, 35, was arrested in Oklahoma City on Christmas Day. Haltom City Police Department He smirked a lot, he giggled, and, you know, was almost proud of what he did, Haltom City Police Sergeant Rick Alexander told FOX 4 News. He claims hes just a thief. He wants money, Alexander continued. But, you know, in this case, clearly he went beyond that and brought a firearm into it. Godoy allegedly abducted the woman at 4:45 a.m. on Christmas Eve, forcing her into the backseat of her car as she headed to work in Haltom City, just outside of Fort Worth, police said. He then forced her to withdraw money then drove her around for nearly an hour while threatening to sell her organs and prostitute her, according to the charging documents. The alleged kidnapper then drove to an apartment complex about 22 miles away in Grapevine, where he tied the womans hands to a tree with her shoelaces and left her there as he fled in her car. The woman managed to free herself and called the police. She was unharmed but told officers Godoys comments had made her fear for her life. Obviously she was terrified, Alexander said. No one expects this kind of thing walking outside early in the morning on Christmas Eve. Haltom City Police Sergeant Rick Alexander said Godoy seemed proud of his alleged crimes. KDFW The stolen vehicle was entered into law enforcement databases, and was spotted in a parking lot by a police officer on Christmas Day in Oklahoma City, some 200 miles away. Godoy was arrested and is being held in jail in Oklahoma City where he is charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle, use of a firearm while committing a felony and misdemeanors. Hes also facing aggravated kidnapping and aggravated robbery charges in Haltom City. Godoy has an active ICE detainer hold because of his immigration status, police said. MUAN, South Korea Outside South Koreas Muan International Airport, the smell of jet fuel is still in the air, days after a passenger jet belly-landed and skidded off the end of the runway, erupting into a fireball. Inside the departures terminal, dozens of yellow and beige tents have been set up for relatives to sleep in as rescuers search the wreckage for the bodies of their loved ones. No one wants to leave as the agonizing identification process takes place. It could take weeks or even months to identify the bodies of the 175 passengers and four crew members who were killed when Jeju Air Flight 2216 from Bangkok came down at around 9 a.m. local time Sunday (7 p.m. ET Saturday). Astonishingly, two flight attendants at the back of the plane survived, one reportedly asking doctors later what happened and why am I here? Lee Dong-Suk, who lost his aunt and uncle in the crash, told NBC News on Monday that he thought the government should work faster to identify the bodies and provide families with more information. At first, the government told us that they found the bodies and that they were making efforts towards identifying them. So we waited and waited because they did not tell us how long we had to wait, where to wait and what to do, he said. So, it became an endless waiting with no end in sight for us. Firefighters carry the body of a passenger from the wreckage at Muan International Airport on Sunday. Honestly, I cannot accept what has happened and that they died. I feel like I am dreaming, he said, adding that he was focusing on caring for his grieving family members. My turn to allow the feelings of profound loss to get to me is only when I am alone at night, he said. I might be able to accept the reality when I see their photos during the funeral procession. How can you accept that it was only a week ago that they left you saying they are going on a nice trip but that they will never return home, he added. In the makeshift tent community, the sound of snores is clearly audible in the evenings. Others sleep where they can, on chairs or the ground. During the day, children play with their toys and teenagers huddle together on their cellphones. Grief and exhaustion show plainly on their faces. Lawyers are also on site offering their legal advice to families free of charge and officials have set up a briefing area where they provide updates to the families. At the nearby Muan Sports Park, a public memorial has been set up for people to pay their respects to the victims. Volunteers handed a white Chrysanthemum and white gloves to each person walking into the gymnasium where an altar displaying the names of every identified victim was surrounded by ornate wreaths. Kim Yung-Rok, the governor of Jeollanamdo Province where Muan is based, solemnly greeted the visitors. I cried when I met with the bereaved families, he said, I realized that there were no words to console the depth of their despair. He added that the crash had come as a terrific shock to both the people of Muan and the entire country. Most of the passengers were not on business trips but family trips and so it hurts even more. People lost not only one but two, three, four or even more than five family members in this one plane accident, he said. U.S. investigators Back at the airport, the search continues with American investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board joining their South Korean counterparts Tuesday. Wearing full hazmat suits in the freezing cold temperatures, they search through the charred, blacked wreckage, aided by a large crane. The American team arrived at the scene the day after acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok ordered an emergency safety inspection of the countrys entire airline operation. The countrys National Police Agency also said it was making all-out efforts to speed identification of the bodies, by allocating more personnel and equipment such as rapid DNA analyzers. There is still no definitive answer on what exactly caused the crash, but two black boxes retrieved from the aircraft the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder were transferred to a test center Monday morning. Yu Kyung-soo, director of aviation safety policy at South Koreas Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, or MOLIT, said in a briefing Monday that the pilot issued a bird strike warning, used to alert a collision between at least one bird and an aircraft, shortly before the crash. The pilot then declared mayday, Yu said. This might be a New Years ball drop wed all like to soon forget. The estimated 1 million revelers set to ring in 2025 in the Big Apple are in for a very soggy time in Times Square, with rain expected to soak the city all night on Tuesday. Unfortunately, rain is expected to move into the New York City area around 7 p.m. and likely linger through midnight, Fox Forecast Center Meteorologist Stephanie van Oppen told The Post. There is a chance of some very heavy rain between 10 and 11 p.m. that will be potentially disruptive for anyone outside trying to see the ball drop. Rain is expected to soak New York City Tuesday night as millions ring in the New Year in Times Square. FOX Weather Heavy downpours have the potential to persist through 1 or 2 a.m. on New Years Day, creating possible snarls for New Yorkers heading home from their New Years celebrations. The weather is expected to clear up by Wednesday morning. Temperatures are expected to stay mild, in the 40s and 50s, through the New Years festivities, according to van Oppen. Heavy rain is likely to persist through midnight, and may cause travel disturbances for New Yorkers leaving their celebrations. Matthew McDermott The wet weather will soak much of the East Coast for the holiday, thanks to a storm system that is moving into the Interstate 95 corridor. Temperatures will likely cool off moving into Wednesday, and the storm system could even produce snow in areas like Buffalo and Watertown, van Oppen said. New Yorkers, however, will likely have to wait longer for their first snowfall of 2025. Chris Jackson/Getty Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer and Karen Spencer arrive at the wedding of Prince Harry to Ms Meghan Markle at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018 in Windsor, England Karen Spencer and Charles Spencer were married for 13 years before he announced their split in June Karen Spencer is being sued by Charles' new partner, archaeologist Dr. Cat Jarman, who alleges that Karen shared private information about Jarman's multiple sclerosis diagnosis In her defense, Karen filed new court documents alleging that she was justified in sharing the information with a small circle given her shock regarding her husband's alleged affair with Jarman In the new filing, Karen also accuses both Jarman and Charles Spencer of "bullying" Jarman and Charles Spencer slammed the new allegations to the Daily Mail Karen Spencer is accusing her ex-husband Charles Spencer of informing her that he wanted a divorce via text message earlier this year and then launching into a bullying campaign against her, according to new court documents filed in the U.K. by Countess Spencer. The High Court documents are part of Karen's defense after Dr. Cat Jarman, Charles' current partner, sued Karen in October for alleged misuse of private information regarding Jarman's multiple sclerosis diagnosis. In the new documents, Karen outlines the reasons she says she felt justified to discuss that information with her circle, given that she had just learned her husband was having an affair with Jarman, 42. "Insofar as Lady Spencer shared the information in question with her immediate family, or close friends and associates, she did so in a way which was entirely justified and legitimate in the circumstances, as part of processing and coming to terms with her husbands sudden and cruel request for a divorce," Karen Spencer's filing states. "Alternatively, given these circumstances, [Jarman] had no reasonable expectation of Lady Spencer not discussing the information in question with the limited group of individuals with whom she shared it." According to the documents, Karen, 52, claims that on March 19, 2024, her husband of 13 years, Charles, 60 the younger brother of the late Princess Diana informed her that their marriage was over, and did this by text message. Though his behavior in the run up to this had been uncaring and deliberately provocative, the documents continue, the fact that he finally brought their marriage to an end by text, completely refusing to have any conversation with her in person or even provide an explanation at all, despite her repeated requests over the weeks that followed, was both cruel and inexplicable. Charles Spencer/Instagram Charles Spencer and Dr. Cat Jarman Related: Charles Spencer's Girlfriend Cat Jarman Alleges His Estranged Wife Outed Her MS Diagnosis: High Court Lawsuit Cat alleged in a High Court claim that Karen revealed Jarmans multiple sclerosis diagnosis without her permission, and she is now suing the countess for the unauthorized release of private information. In her defense to the claim, Karen alleged that Charles and Cat had been having an affair as far back as 2022, and possibly 2021 which Karen claims she learned after contacting Cats husband, Tom Jarman, this past spring. High Court documents obtained by PEOPLE state that in a Zoom call on April 26, 2024 between the Countess and Tom, she asked him if he was suspicious of an affair between the two of them, and once they compared the accounts of Charles and Cat the affair became clear. Understandably, Lady Spencer was left shocked and devastated, the documents read, adding this news was hideous for Lady Spencer. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Earl Charles Spencer and Countess Karen Spencer attend day 3, Ladies Day, of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse on June 18, 2015 in Ascot, England After finding out about the alleged affair, Karen confronted Cat, as she was at the time planning to stay in a house just a few hundred meters away from Lady Spencers home for a period of five weeks and have dinner in Althorp House itself while she and her daughter [with Spencer, 12-year-old Charlotte Diana] were still living there. (After several years of marriage to Charles, Karen left her home in California to join him full time at Althorp, the Spencer family ancestral home, where Princess Diana and her siblings grew up.) Lady Spencer decided to confront [Cat] about the affair with her husband and explain to her that it would be inappropriate to come and have dinner in her home, the documents continue, adding that Cat did not deny the affair; instead she claimed that she was not the reason for the breakdown of her marriage. An email Karen allegedly sent to Cat was included in the court documents, which said in part, First of all[,] as a woman, I just have to tell you that I am so disappointed in you. Turning all of the childrens lives upside down [like] this is so unbelievably immoral, adding, You clearly didnt think this through. Calling her Charles long-term mistress, Karen said she wouldnt have Cat at Althorp while she still lived there, adding of Cats relationship with Charles, Good luck Cat, youre in for a hell of a ride. Rich Polk/Getty 9th Earl Spencer Charles Spencer (L) and Countess Karen Spencer at the Whole Child International's Inaugural Gala in Los Angeles hosted by The Earl and Countess Spencer at Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel on Oct. 26, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California In her court filing, Karen says the "actions and manner" by which both Charles and Jarman have pursued the legal situation are "oppressive and bullying, ignoring entirely the obviously understandable and legitimate nature of her sharing such information with a limited circle of those close to her (as opposed to publicly disseminating it in any way) given its relevance to the affair [Jarman] has had with her husband, the manner in which he demanded a divorce whilst refusing to provide any explanation after 13 years together, and her obvious need to process and come to terms with facing losing the life which she had built for herself, her husband and their daughter in one foul swoop." Related: Charles Spencer, 60, Breaks Silence on Romance with Woman 18 Years His Junior amid Divorce Drama: 'I Don't Have to Pretend' Karen also alleges in the new filing that Jarman pressured her into responding to her lawsuit even as Karen was mourning the death of her father in Canada. Jarman "instructed her [lawyers] still to press Lady Spencer, stating, 'we are aware that your client is in Canada and with her family there, but this should take no more than five minutes of her time and there can be absolutely no reason not to do so.' In the hours after her fathers death, whilst Lady Spencer was heavily grieving on Vancouver Island, [Jarman] instructed her [lawyers] to demand responses from her under the threat of immediately forcing her into Court in London (at the same time as a similar threat was made by Earl Spencer)." In statements to the Daily Mail about Karen's new filing, both Charles and Cat fired back. "The stress of this matter, which could have been resolved by Karen Spencer in a few minutes many months ago, further seriously impacts my health," Jarman said. "My full response to this outrage will be with the Courts at the earliest possible opportunity, and at the same time we are urgently looking at all available legal redress, including that relating to the breaking of legally binding oaths.' Meanwhile, Charles told the Daily Mail, "The notion that I would end my marriage by text is an absurd attempt to blacken my name. Karen ended the marriage, after endless threats to do so over the years, in early March. She asked me to confirm the end of the marriage in a text of 18 March and my reply that day was a simple acceptance of her decision. I have those texts still, and will share them in court when I clear my name." Charles and Cat, along with the Reverend Richard Coles, co-host the podcast The Rabbit Hole Detectives, and Cat, an archaeologist, conducted an archaeological dig at Althorp. In a Dec. 4 interview with The Daily Mail, Cat spoke for the first time about her multiple sclerosis diagnosis, which she received in 2016 calling the news utterly devastating. I thought I would be discriminated against because of it, because it is a disability, she said of why she initially chose to keep her diagnosis private. I thought it would affect my career, destroy my livelihood, affect the way people regarded me. I did not want to be defined by it, or my career limited by it. Since then I have worked very hard indeed to keep my MS hidden, as should be my prerogative. So only a handful of people have known and Charles wasnt one of them. Id been seeing him, romantically, for only two months or three months, and still hadnt told him, she continued. Marta Perez/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Dr. Cat Jarman Cat claimed that Karen found out that she has MS from someone close to me during a conversation around whether Cat and Charles were having an affair (which Jarman insists didn't happen). Karen then told Charles, according to Cat. But in the course of a conversation about whether I had been having an affair with her husband which I can categorically say I had not been, we were very much just friends and colleagues until after the marriage had ended Karen learned that I have MS. It was also confirmed to her that this was not something that was widely known. And yet she then went to Charles and said, You do know she has MS, dont you? Cat alleged to The Daily Mail. Cat further claimed that Karen shared the news of her MS diagnosis with a number of people: Im still not entirely sure who else she shared this private and sensitive information with, which is the point of this legal action," Cat told The Daily Mail. After Charles allegedly found out about her diagnosis in May, Cat claimed she then spent the next five months trying to learn who Karen had told, which led to her lawyers sending letters (which she claims were ignored) before raising it to a lawsuit. On Oct. 10, The Telegraph reported that Cat filed a lawsuit against Karen, alleging misuse of private information. Charles Spencer/Instagram Dr. Cat Jarman and Charles Spencer In June, Charles announced that he and Karen were divorcing after 13 years of marriage. The former couple wed at Althorp in 2011 and share a 12-year-old daughter, Charlotte Diana. Both Charles and Karen were previously married Charles, 60, shares four children with his first wife, Victoria Lockwood, and two children with his second wife, Caroline Freud, and Karen, 52, shares two daughters from her first marriage to Hollywood producer Mark Gordon. It is immensely sad, Charles told The Mail on Sunday in the statement announcing that he and Karen were divorcing. I just want to devote myself to all my children, and to my grandchildren, and I wish Karen every happiness in the future. In another twist to the story, Charles reportedly retained the same divorce attorney that King Charles did when the future king and Princess Diana divorced in 1996. Georges De Keerle/Getty Charles and Diana, Prince and Princess of Wales, pose outside Chateau de Chambord during their official visit to France on Nov. 9, 1988 in Chambord, France Related: Charles Spencer, 60, Breaks Silence on Romance with Woman 18 Years His Junior amid Divorce Drama: 'I Don't Have to Pretend' Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Speaking on Nov. 24 to The Mail on Sunday, Charles said of his relationship with Cat, "I'm too old for hearts and flowers stuff, but the best way to describe it is that with Cat, I can be myself." He continued, "She knows who I am. Who I really am. I don't have to pretend to be something I am not." Read the original article on People The gatekeepers of Elvis Presley's estate are trying to recover a potential trove of records and memorabilia left behind by the King of Rock and Roll, according to a lawsuit filed in California. The lawsuit, filed just before 6 p.m. on Dec. 24, is a fitting coda to a year that saw Presley's iconic Memphis home nearly auctioned off as part of what federal authorities now call an attempt to defraud both Presley's family and Elvis Presley Enterprises. Now, the operators of Graceland allege "irreplaceable" items they bought more than three decades ago from Presley's longtime manager, Col. Tom Parker, have fallen into the hands of people who have no right to them and are now trying to sell them in an online auction. PHOTO: Singer Elvis Presley and his manager Colonel Tom Parker sit at a typewriter in front of the a picture of the RCA Victor Dog in circa 1956 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images) "It is now clear that some of the material that the parties to the Parker Acquisition intended to be transferred to [Elvis Presley Enterprises], never was," the lawsuit claims. Despite "clear and repeated demands" that the defendants stop hawking what was not theirs to sell, those demands were "ignored," according to the filing. At issue is a collection that allegedly includes everything from contracts and agreements signed by Presley, to a telegram from associates congratulating Elvis and his then-wife Priscilla on the birth of their daughter, Lisa Marie. Elvis Presley Enterprises contends the cache of memorabilia is valued at upwards of $2 million, though the "unique" artifacts are "priceless." The items were listed on the website of GWS Auctions, a California company that boasts sales of "celebrity" items from the likes of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and Johnny Cash. The Presley items listed in the lawsuit appeared as available online in mid-November under the heading "The Lost Collection of Elvis, Col. Tom Parker & More." Elvis Presley Enterprises alleges the auctioneeing company advertised while knowing the sellers had no legal right to the items, which the company denies. MORE: Elvis Presley through the years The origin of the dispute dates back to 1990, when Col. Parker, "known as a meticulous record keeper and a real pack rat who held onto everything," directly sold EPE "perhaps the greatest collection of Elvis-related documents and memorabilia ever held by anyone other than Elvis himself," the suit alleged, adding it is the "entire collection" as it pertained to "Elvis and Elvis related memorabilia, irrespective of where such material was located." EPE acquired the collection as part of its ongoing effort to catalogue, preserve and showcase artifacts connected to the life and career of one of rock and roll's first global superstars. One of the company's executives, Jack Soden, "had dealt with and known Col. Parker for many years" and said he "was acting with the authority of Elvis's widow Priscilla Presley, was intent on acquiring from Parker every scrap of Elvis-related material Parker owned." PHOTO: Elvis Presley and his bride Priscilla Ann Beaulieu, pose for photograph following their wedding at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, May 1, 1967. (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) The lawsuit alleges company leaders believed all the items covered in the agreement "had been collected," only now to find otherwise. Some of those items "ended up in the possession" of one of Parker's former longtime employees after Parker's death in 1997, according to the filing. Then in December 2021, the lawsuit says, the co-founder of GWS Auctions, Brigitte Kruse, reached out to both Priscilla Presley and Graceland's chief archivist to tell them she knew that the employee had items that should be in EPE's custody. Kruse allegedly even shared videos of her discussions with him acknowledging who owned what. Kruse allegedly told Graceland's archivist Angela Marchese "that she knew these materials were involved in 'theft' and rightfully belonged to EPE," according to a signed declaration by Marchese obtained by ABC News. When a Presley executive confronted the employee directly, he backtracked, saying it had all been "a misunderstanding," and he only had "photocopies," not originals, the suit says. "Some of the very documents and memorabilia Kruse claimed [the employee] possessed have now been listed for sale," the suit alleges, adding "it is apparent" how those items "made their way" to the auction house. PHOTO: Elvis Presley (Bettmann Archive/Getty Images) MORE: Missouri woman arrested in alleged scheme to defraud Elvis Presley's family through Graceland sale "Kruse listed the Property for sale despite knowing, as she made clear in her email to Marchese and contemporaneous conversations with Marchese, that Kruse knew these items to be stolen Property rightfully belonging to [EPE]," the suit said. EPE sent a cease-and-desist letter to Kruse earlier this month. In response, a lawyer for GWS said the company "denies any wrongdoing whatsoever," and denies that the "characterizations of the communications between" Kruse and Marchese "are accurate or complete." GWS also denied EPE's property interest and said that they would "proceed with the auction," according to the suit and appended exhibits. In a statement to ABC News, Kruse pushed back on the allegations against her and her company, saying that the assertions are "unfounded and without merit." "EPE and Graceland's assertions are unfounded and without merit. This is merely another attempt to discredit our founder and the company. Under no circumstances would we engage in the sale of "stolen" items, and this collection was sought after by auction houses globally," Kruse said. "The items in question successfully passed our auction house's due diligence process and were subsequently offered for public sale. Furthermore, no police report has ever been filed by EPE/Graceland, and the owner has possessed this collection for several decades," Kruse added. As of Monday night, the auction site is still up, though bidding is closed. PHOTO: Graceland Elvis Presley mansion sign Memphis USA (Education Images/Universal Image) MORE: Riley Keough says she wants to preserve Elvis Presley's Graceland: 'Our family home' The keepers of the Presley legacy say the decades-long story of Elvis is one of people trying to profit off of the King and often at the expense of him and his family. In May, Elvis' idyllic Graceland retreat was mysteriously announced for auction by an unknown company calling itself "Naussany Investments," which claimed that Lisa Marie used Graceland as collateral to take out a $3.8 million loan and had not repaid it. The ensuing investigation stretched all the way from Memphis to Florida, where the notary whose fake seal was used for the alleged fraud spoke up -- and Presley's granddaughter countersued, stopping a possible sale. In August, the alleged perpetrator behind that alleged fraud was arrested in the Ozarks: Lisa Findley was apprehended on Aug. 16, the 47th anniversary of Elvis' death. Federal prosecutors charged the Missouri woman with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. The case is still pending, and Findley is last listed in custody in Tennessee. "People have been trying to take from Elvis since Elvis was Elvis," Joel Weinshanker, managing partner of Elvis Presley Enterprises, told ABC News this fall. "Elvis was a human being. He was a really good human being," he said. "Pick on somebody else. Have a heart, have a conscience. And even if you don't have a heart or have a conscience -- know that you won't get away with it." Lawsuit alleges 'irreplaceable' Elvis Presley artifacts illegally put up for auction originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Popular music's favorite country performer is embracing rock and roll. That's the most substantial take from Grammy-nominated and 19-time Billboard Music Award-winning artist Morgan Wallen's surprise single release, "Smile." 2024 marks the second time in four years that the 2024 Country Music Association entertainer of the year has released new music on New Year's Eve. At the beginning of 2022, Wallen paired with Ernest for the neotraditional country ballad "Flower Shops" and released the hip-hop-aided Lil Durk duet "Broadway Girls." The song is written by Wallen along with back-to-back BMI song of the year co-writers John Byron and Ernest, plus Rocky Block, Ryan Vojtesak and Luis Witkiewitz. It continues a turn towards guitar-driven, lovestruck and mellow rock-aimed tracks like the Sneedville, Tennessee native's "Lies Lies Lies" and "Love Somebody." "It was good to see you smile / Girl you know it's been a while / It was good to see you smile / Even if it was just for the picture," Wallen sings. Morgan Wallen's 2024 in review 2024 ends with Wallen having achieved 16 No. 1 singles on Billboard's Country Airplay chart in under a decade. This includes a quintet of No. 1 singles in the past 12 months: Thomas Rhett collaboration "Mamaw's House" Eric Church collaboration "Man Made A Bar" Post Malone duet "I Had Some Help" "Cowgirls," featuring Ernest "Lies Lies Lies" Two months ago, Wallen's rock-tinged heartbreaker "Love Somebody" debuted at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart and was immediately No. 1 in five countries worldwide. The song's success made him the first artist to have three singles simultaneously sit atop the Billboard 100 and Hot Country Songs charts. During his recently completed, two-year-long, and 87-date "One Night At A Time" world tour, he played at venues including over four dozen stadiums to over 3.1 million fans, setting weekend attendance records at Knoxville, Tennessee's Neyland Stadium and Columbus' Ohio Stadium. What's next for Morgan Wallen in 2025 2025 finds Wallen achieving his peak in both fame and infamy. On Dec. 12, the performer pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment, reduced from the three Class E felonies he was initially charged with. The plea ended an eight-month process stemming from being charged with three counts of reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon and one count of disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor, after he threw a chair from the roof of Chief's on Broadway, a six-story honky-tonk opened by Eric Church in Nashville, Tennessee, in April. Morgan Wallen raises his hand and to be sworn in next to his attorney, Worrick Robinson, at Justice A. A. Birch Building, in Nashville, Tenn., Dec. 12, 2024. Wallen pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment, lesser than the three Class E felonies he was initially charged with. Wallen was originally charged after he threw a bar chair off the roof of Chief's on Broadway in April. He was held for seven days in a DUI education center and is currently on supervised probation for two years. In May 2025, the "Last Night" vocalist will also host his inaugural Sand In My Boots Festival on the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. The sold-out event will feature headlining sets by Wallen, Post Malone, Brooks & Dunn and Hardy across three days and three nights. Additional guests include Riley Green, Bailey Zimmerman, T-Pain, Diplo, Wiz Khalifa, The War on Drugs, 2 Chainz, Chase Rice, Three 6 Mafia, 3 Doors Down, Ella Langley, Ernest, Morgan Wade, Moneybagg Yo and more. For full details, visit sandinmybootsfest.com. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Morgan Wallen releases new rock-tinged ballad 'Smile' The straphanger who was burned to death on a Brooklyn F train in a horrific attack has been identified as a 57-year-old New Jersey woman, police announced Tuesday. Debrina Kawam of Toms River was sleeping on the train at the Stillwell Avenue-Coney Island station 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 22 when she was set on fire with illegal Guatemalan immigrant Sebastian Zapeta-Calil now facing first-degree murder charges in the sick attack. The victim of the horrifying Dec. 22 subway arson attack was so badly burned that she initially remained unidentified. Gregory P. Mango Horrifying video footage shows the accused killer fanning the flames as Kawam was consumed by the flames and calmly watching the scorched victim from a bench on the platform. The Coalition for the Homeless described her as homeless. Kawam was identified through fingerprints, sources said. The sources said Kawam had been living in Big Apple shelters since at least Sept. 9, and had been given a bed at the Franklin Williams Womens Shelter in the Bronx on Nov. 30, but left on Dec. 2. She had at least three prior scrapes with the police a transit bust for alcohol on April 28, a 2010 disorderly conduct charge in Maryland in 2010, and a New Jersey prostitution bust in 1994, according to law enforcement sources. She resided in New Jersey and had a brief stint in our shelter system, Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday. Our hearts go out to the family for this horrific incident. It was just a bad incident and impacts how New Yorkers feel, the mayor said. But it really reinforces what Ive been saying, people should not be living on our subway system. They should be in a place of care. No matter where she lived this shouldnt have happened. A source also told The Post she was alive when she was set on fire, with a walker and several bags nearby. The city medical examiner struggled to identify the body because it was so severely burned in the attack, sources previously said. Guatemalan immigrant Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, allegedly watched the woman burn in the Dec. 22 attack. According to police, Sebastian Zapeta-Calil left the Brooklyn station but was nabbed by NYPD cops in Manhattan. Obtained by the Post Zapeta-Calil, who was arraigned on first- and second-degree murder and arson charges, is being held at Rikers Island without bail. Federal immigration officials said he entered the US illegally in 2018 but was deported less than a week later only to find his way back into the country and to the Big Apple. By March 2023, he was living in the New York City shelter system. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is charged with first-degree murder in the sick Brooklyn subway arson attack on Dec. 22. Gregory P. Mango A pal at the Brooklyn facility where he last shacked up told The Post the migrant was addicted to smoking the synthetic drug K2 and drank heavily on a daily basis. The accused killer allegedly told cops he was so high, he didnt remember lighting the fire. He smoked K2, drank and bugged out, said shelter resident Raymond Robinson, who slept on a cot at the facility next to Zapeta-Calil until his arrest. He would bug out and talk to himself when he was high, but never harmed nobody but himself, Robinson said. Thats why this st fked my head up because I slept next to him and he was never like that. I wouldnt leave my daughter with anybody but he was the type of dude I could trust. As long as he wasnt high, he added. Robinson said Zapeta-Calil liked to drink Voda vodka, the cheapest st there is. Additional reporting by Craig McCarthy A street is dark during a blackout in San Juan, Puerto Rico, after sunset on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo) SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) A blackout hit nearly all of Puerto Rico early on Tuesday as the U.S. territory prepared to celebrate New Years, leaving more than 1.3 million clients in the dark. Officials said it could take up to two days to restore power. The outage hit at dawn, plunging the island into an eerie silence as electrical appliances and air conditioners shut down before those who could afford generators turned them on. It had to be on the 31st of December! exclaimed one man, who only gave his name as Manuel, as he stood outside a grocery store in the capital of San Juan, grumbling about the outage that coincided with his birthday. There is no happiness. Nearly 90% of 1.47 million clients across Puerto Rico were left in the dark, according to Luma Energy, a private company that oversees electricity transmission and distribution. By late Tuesday night, more than 700,000 clients, including 16 hospitals and Puerto Rico's water and sewer company, had power back, according to Luma. However, the company's webpage detailing who remained without power was down. "We understand the deep frustration this outage has caused, especially on a day like today," Luma said in a statement. We apologize for the disruption to your plans. Luma said the power outage was likely caused by a failure of an underground power line. It said it's restoring power in the quickest and safest way possible. Hugo Sorrentini, a Luma spokesman, told The Associated Press that the incident was under investigation. Discover Puerto Rico, a not-for-profit organization that promotes the island, warned travelers about the outage on its website and asked that cruise ship passengers contact tour operators directly to determine whether they had generators and were open for the day. Five cruise ships were scheduled to dock in Puerto Rico on Tuesday. While most hotels were running on generators, short-term rentals lacking them reported cancellations. The main international airport in San Juan remained open. The blackout fanned simmering anger against Luma and Genera PR, which oversees the generation of power in Puerto Rico, as a growing number of people call for their ouster. Governor-elect Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon, who is set to be sworn in on Jan. 2, has called for the creation of an energy czar to review potential Luma contractual breaches while another operator is found. We cant keep relying on an energy system that fails our people, she wrote on the social media platform X, adding that stabilizing Puerto Ricos energy grid would be her top priority in office. Meanwhile, Gov. Pedro Pierluisi said he was in touch with Luma and Genera PR, adding on X that we are demanding answers and solutions. President Joe Biden spoke with Pierluisi on Tuesday evening about the outage and offered federal assistance. Biden also spoke with U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and directed her to offer any help needed to speed power restoration on the island. The outage forced businesses, parks and several malls to close, and the government announced limited schedules for some of its agencies. Workers checked on hundreds of bedridden patients and distributed ice for diabetics to keep their insulin cold. Other Puerto Ricans began to plan ahead. I'll go to my balcony. That's where I'll sleep, Raul Pacheco said with a shrug, as the 63-year-old diabetic sat on a walker nursing an injured foot. Julio Cordova, a municipal worker, said he got dressed by the light of his cellphone and planned to buy candles. This affects me because I had plans. It couldn't have been yesterday or tomorrow?" he said, shaking his head as he raked leaves. While island-wide blackouts are rare in Puerto Rico, the U.S. territory struggles with chronic power outages blamed on a crumbling power grid that was razed by Hurricane Maria, a Category 4 storm in September 2017. The system, however, was already in decline after years of lack of maintenance and investment. Only recently did crews start making permanent repairs to Puerto Ricos power grid following Hurricane Maria. The island continues to depend on generators provided by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency to help stabilize the grid. In November, Puerto Ricos government asked U.S. officials for permission to keep using more than a dozen portable generators for two additional years. Some Puerto Ricans took the latest outage in stride. They're part of my everyday life, said Enid Nunez, 49, who said she ate breakfast before work thanks to a small gas stove she bought for such events. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico's Electric Power Authority struggles to restructure more than $9 billion in debt, the largest of the island's government agencies. Power plants that rely on petroleum generate more than 60% of Puerto Rico's energy, followed by natural gas and coal. Solar rooftops account for only about 7% of electricity consumption on an island with a poverty rate over 40%. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band rehearses for the upcoming Rose Parade in the parking lot at Angel Stadium in Anaheim recently. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) The ebullient thrum of staccato snares, thumping sousaphones, and tramping shoes all acting in unison filled the gray morning air in the parking lot outside Angel Stadium recently. Piles of travel-worn cardboard boxes and pristine instrument cases stood stacked at one end of the cracked asphalt as scores of young performers marched, danced and played in tight formation, round and round the vast expanse. It was just days before the Rose Parade and one of the last chances the Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band had to practice its eight-song medley and accompanying choreography. Yuika Okai, left, and Karin Yamamoto enjoy a light moment while taking a break from rehearsal for the upcoming Rose Parade. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) One of 24 bands slated to perform in the Pasadena procession, the Japanese school will mark its third appearance there on New Year's Day. It will join an international contingent of bands from Mexico, Panama and Denmark. Read more:In town for the Rose Parade? What to eat, including the most famous salad in Pasadena The Japanese band's whirlwind visit to Southern California began Christmas Day, when the performers and their instruments started arriving at Los Angeles International Airport. For most, it was their first visit to the United States. They spent Thursday and Friday practicing and retiring to a nearby hotel, escorted back and forth in long charter buses while a local volunteer transported their instruments in a Penske moving truck. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band rehearses for the Rose Parade in the parking lot at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Asked about their first impressions, many of the young band members remarked on how friendly the Americans they had met had been. And several raved about the food, especially the hotel's bacon and eggs an uncommon breakfast in Japan. Everything is huge. Lots of cars and freeways, 18-year-old saxophone player Kokoro Kumagai said through a translator. We went to the supermarket and every item is quite huge and its color is quite vivid. Everything seemed delicious. The group is considered Japan's best and most innovative high school marching band. Until just several years ago when the school began to admit boys the band was made up entirely of girls. This year, 109 enrolled students and 82 recent graduates made the trip to California. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band is considered Japan's best and most innovative high school marching band. Until just several years ago when the school began to admit boys the band was made up entirely of girls. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Over the weekend, band members dispersed across Southern California for home stays with families from Seal Beach to Ontario. Many said they were excited to experience normal American life and maybe see some tourist attractions or go shopping in between commitments. They had a busy schedule, with a charity concert at John F. Kennedy High School in La Palma on Sunday, an appearance in the Rose Parade-associated Bandfest event at Pasadena City College on Monday and a performance in the parade at Disneyland on New Years Eve. Bob Kunihiro said he hosted two band members at his familys house in Anaheim Hills in 2018, and he decided to do so again this year. He takes them to area restaurants and to the outlets, which he said is a popular option because American clothing is typically more expensive in Japan, particularly with the current weakness of the yen. Read more:Photos: Float decoration shifts into high gear ahead of the 2025 Rose Parade Its a lot of fun. I really enjoy it, the kids are really nice, Kunihiro said. A lot of the kids dont speak much English, so theyre very apprehensive. I speak a little Japanese, but I also use Google Translate, which helps. That trepidation disappears the moment they don their signature yellow-and-black collared tops and orange skirts or black pants in the case of the few male players and hoist their instruments in the air. The band is an explosion of coordinated energy, with far more activity than the average marching band as its members skip, high kick and sashay, all while playing a tune. "Around 200 high school students and graduates are going to make a very impressive performance, with the combination of dance and music," said Yasuda Fumihiko, Kyoto Tachibana's principal. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Around 200 high school students and graduates are going to make a very impressive performance, with the combination of dance and music, said Yasuda Fumihiko, Kyoto Tachibanas principal, as he watched the Friday practice. Very skillful steps and very beautiful sounds, theyll play eight tunes. The bands leaders said they chose songs that American audience members of all ages would enjoy, from Taylor Swifts Shake It Off and Poker Face by Lady Gaga to the Beach Boys classic Surfin U.S.A. and the jazz standard Sing Sing Sing, made famous by Benny Goodman. For the bands members, the day of the Rose Parade begins hours before dawn, as they expect to arrive near the parade route around 3 a.m. The actual performance will last about two hours, during which they will perform the eight-song medley in a repeating loop as they make their way through the streets of Pasadena before wrapping up in late morning. The Kyoto Tachibana Senior High School Green Band listens to its music director during rehearsal. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) The next day, its back to Japan for the high schoolers, who have exams to study for. The graduates will stay an extra day in the U.S. to visit where else Disneyland. We want to make a very good performance. We want to enjoy ourselves and we want every person watching to enjoy themselves, too, Kumagai said. Its a kind of harmony. We want people in the U.S. to know peace and harmony through our music and marching performance. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The oil tanker Eagle S, alongside the Finnish coast guard ship Uisko and tugboat Ukko, in the Gulf of Finland on December 28, 2024. The Eagle S is flagged in the Cook Islands but was described by Finnish customs officials as part of Russias shadow fleet of fuel tankers. (Jussi Nukari/Lehtikuva/AFP/Getty Images) Finnish investigators probing the damage to a Baltic Sea power cable and several data cables said they found an anchor drag mark on the seabed, apparently from a Russia-linked vessel that has already been seized. The discovery heightened concerns about suspected sabotage by Russias shadow fleet of fuel tankers aging vessels with obscure ownership acquired to evade Western sanctions amid the war in Ukraine and operating without Western-regulated insurance. The Estlink-2 power cable, which transmits energy from Finland to Estonia across the Baltic Sea, went down on Dec. 25 after a rupture. It had little impact on services but followed damage to two data cables and the Nord Stream gas pipelines, both of which have been termed sabotage. Finnish police chief investigator Sami Paila said late Sunday the anchor drag trail continued for dozens of kilometers (miles) if not almost 100 kilometers (62 miles). Paila added to Finnish national TV broadcaster Yle: Our current understanding is that the drag mark in question is that of the anchor of the (seized) Eagle S vessel. We have been able to clarify this matter through underwater research. Without giving further details, Paila said authorities have a preliminary understanding of what happened at sea, how the anchor mark was created there, and stressed that the question of intent is a completely essential issue to be clarified in the preliminary investigation. On Saturday, the seized vessel was escorted to anchorage in the vicinity of the port of Porvoo to facilitate the investigation, officials said. It is being probed under criminal charges of aggravated interference with telecommunications, aggravated vandalism and aggravated regulatory offense. The Eagle S is flagged in the Cook Islands but was described by Finnish customs officials and the European Union executive commission as part of Russias shadow fleet of fuel tankers. Russias use of the vessels has raised environmental concerns about accidents given their age and uncertain insurance coverage. In the wake of the cable rupture, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said last week that the military alliance, which Finland joined last year, will step up patrols in the Baltic Sea region. The Finnish Coast Guard said Monday that another tanker ship headed for a Russian port has engine failure and drifted, then anchored in the Gulf of Finland south of the Hanko Paninsula. The guard said it was notified Sunday night. Registered in Panama, the M/T Jazz was en route to Primorsk, Russia, from Sudan, with apparently no oil cargo. Finnish authorities have dispatched a tugboat and a patrol ship to ensure that the vessel does not drift and to prevent any damage to the environment. Regional director of the Coast Guard Janne Ryonankoski said there was no immediate risk to the seabed infrastructure. Earlier Monday, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said that sabotage in Europe has increased since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Kallas told the German newspaper Welt that the recent sabotage attempts in the Baltic Sea are not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of deliberate and coordinated actions to damage our digital and energy infrastructure. She vowed that the EU would take stronger measures to counter the risks posed by vessels of Russias shadow fleet. Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometer (832-mile) border with Russia, abandoned its decades-long policy of neutrality and joined NATO in 2023, amid Russias war against Ukraine. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A soon-to-be Missouri father was allegedly shot and killed protecting his pregnant fiancee during an argument with his dad on Christmas Eve as his mother waited for the couple at her home to celebrate the holiday. Harold Luster was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with the death of his son Kevin Ward. A senseless act took my baby away from me, Katherine Ward tearfully told KSDK on Friday. Katherine Ward said her son was shot dead by his father during an argument on Christmas Eve. KSDK Ward said Kevin, 26, and his fiancee, Kaitlyn, had visited Luster, 61, on Christmas Eve before the couple planned on heading to her home. (Harold) and another family member had been arguing prior, that did not have nothing to do with Kevin, Ward explained. He was already worked up over that incident. Luster allegedly accused Wards mother of cheating on him and accused Kaitlyn of withholding information, the outlet reported, citing court records. Police said Luster grabbed a gun when Kevin intervened. According to the Kansas City Star, Luster asked Kaitlyn if she wanted to get shot. Ward said Luster called her during the argument as she was preparing to have the couple over for Christmas Eve and heard her son saying, Dad, why are you doing this? I dont deserve this, before he ended the call. Kevin, 26, and his fiancee, Kaitlyn, had visited his father, Harold Luster, 61, on Christmas Eve before heading to her home. KSDK He is accused of fatally shooting his son in the forehead moments later Luster then allegedly called Ward a second time telling her he had shot someone. Kevin died with a gunshot to his forehead and his hands tucked in his pockets, Ward told the outlet. He was ultimately going to shoot Kevins fiancee and Kevin sacrificed himself, he was the hero that night. He would rather die than have her and that baby taken. Police said Luster grabbed a gun when Kevin intervened during the argument. KSDK The grieving mother said she never cheated on Luster, describing their relationship as on and off again. She also claimed he was physically and mentally abusive to her and was living with another woman at the time he allegedly killed their son. Kevin and Kaitlyn were expecting their baby in June, his mother said. Ward, a maintenance worker at the Missouri Department of Transportation, said her sons main goal was to buy his child a home and build a loving family. I will have to sit there and hold his baby for the first time because he wont be able to, Ward told the outlet with tears streaming down her face. My son was the best. He was a great kid that didnt deserve that night and I wish 1,000 times he never went down there. But me and him never would have thought this would ever happen. Its almost like Im in a nightmare and I cant get out. Luster was arrested Wednesday night and charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with the death of his son. He is jailed in Jefferson County without bond. Harold Luster has been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with the death of his son. Jefferson County Sheriff Katherine Ward said she will fight to ensure her son gets the justice he deserves. KSDK He pleaded not guilty Thursday and will return to court on Jan. 3 for his bond review hearing, according to KSDK. Ward, who is expected to attend the hearing, said she will fight to make sure her son did not die in vain. My son cannot breathe, my son cannot walk, my son cannot see, my son is not here no more. Why should (Harold) get the pleasure of sitting, even though its a jail cell, hes still alive, and I want him to suffer every day at that memory, Ward stated. As far as justice, he deserves life. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States on Tuesday imposed sanctions on entities in Iran and Russia, accusing them of attempting to interfere in the 2024 U.S. election. The U.S. Treasury Department said in a statement the entities - a subsidiary of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and an organization affiliated with Russia's military intelligence agency (GRU) - aimed to "stoke socio-political tensions and influence the U.S. electorate during the 2024 U.S. election". "The Governments of Iran and Russia have targeted our election processes and institutions and sought to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns," Treasury's Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Bradley Smith, said in the statement. "The United States will remain vigilant against adversaries who would undermine our democracy." Russia's embassy in Washington said in a statement to Reuters: "Russia has not and does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including the United States." "As President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly stressed, we respect the will of the American people. All insinuations about 'Russian machinations' are malicious slander, invented for use in the internal political struggles in the United States," the spokesperson added. Iran's mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Republican Donald Trump was elected president in November, beating Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and capping a remarkable comeback four years after he was voted out of the White House. The Treasury said the Cognitive Design Production Center planned influence operations since at least 2023 designed to incite tensions among the electorate on behalf of the IRGC. The Treasury accused the Moscow-based Center for Geopolitical Expertise (CGE) of circulating disinformation about candidates in the election as well as directing and subsidizing the creation of deepfakes. The Treasury said CGE also manipulated a video to produce "baseless accusations concerning a 2024 vice presidential candidate." It did not specify which candidate was targeted. The Moscow-based center, at the direction of the GRU, used generative AI tools to create disinformation distributed across a network of websites that were designed to look like legitimate news outlets, the Treasury said. It accused the GRU of providing financial support to CGE and a network of U.S.-based facilitators in order to build and maintain its AI-support server and maintain a network of at least 100 websites used in its disinformation operations. CGE's director was also hit with sanctions in Tuesday's action. An annual U.S. threat assessment released in October said the United States sees a growing threat of Russia, Iran and China attempting to influence the elections, including by using artificial intelligence to disseminate fake or divisive information. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and Katharine Jackson; Editing by Doina Chiacu, Chizu Nomiyama, Angus MacSwan and Alistair Bell) Authorities have identified the woman who burned to death after she was set on fire inside a New York City subway train as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam. At a news conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Kawam, of Toms River, New Jersey, had a brief stint in our homeless shelter system." Neither he nor the police department said whether she was homeless. Her identification on Tuesday came more than a week after the attack Dec. 22 shocked the nation's largest city and raised concerns over safety in the public transit system. Despite a slew of recent random attacks, crime on the transit system is down from last year, authorities said. Last week, a grand jury indicted Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan man in the country illegally, on murder and arson charges. Prosecutors and police officials say the suspect approached a woman sitting on an F train subway car early that morning, set her on fire with a lighter and fanned the flames using a shirt. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the suspect sat on a platform bench near the train car as the woman burned before fleeing, and responding officers' body cameras captured his image. Tisch described the attack as "one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being." Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is seen in photos released by the New York Police Department during the investigation. Officials said Zapeta-Calil had been deported in June 2018 but made it back into the country. It was not known when and where he reached the U.S. illegally again. Zapeta-Calil was arrested Dec. 23 after he was spotted by several high school students on the subway in Midtown Manhattan. At a court appearance last week, Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg said Zapeta-Calil had identified himself in photos related to the grisly attack. Rottenberg also said the suspect told authorities he did not know anything about the incident. An attorney for Zapeta-Calil has not responded to USA TODAY's requests for comment. His next court appearance was set for Jan 7. Contributing: John Bacon and Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY; Reuters This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Woman burned to death in New York City subway identified In the weeks since Bashar al-Assad was ousted as Syrian leader, Russia has launched multiple flights to an airbase in the Libyan desert. Moscows goal appears to be to find an alternative stopover for its growing military involvement in Africa and a way to retain its military presence in the Mediterranean. For nearly a decade, the Hmeimim air base and Tartus naval facility on the Syrian coast have served both purposes. Now the conflict-riven North African nation of Libya is central to Russian efforts to project power into the Mediterranean. Flight-tracking data analyzed by CNN show more than one flight a day since mid-December by Moscows giant Antonov AN-124 transport planes, as well as Ilyushin IL-76 aircraft from Hmeimim to al-Khadim, a base near Benghazi in eastern Libya. Earlier this month, US and Western officials told CNN that Russia had begun withdrawing a large amount of military equipment and troops from Syria. The equipment transferred may have included advanced Russian air defense systems. CNN saw imagery of these systems waiting to be flown out of Syria shortly before the Russian flights started. On December 28, an Antonov returned to Hmeimim from Libya. A Russian Ilyushin Il-76MD plane flies over Moscow during a rehearsal for the Victory Day parade in May 2022. - Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agencya/Getty Images Jalel Harchaoui, an associate fellow at the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) think tank, told CNN there has been an undeniable spike in Russian aircraft landing in Libya from Syria, Russia and Belarus in recent weeks. Hmeimim has been the hub from which Russian mercenary operations in Africa at first in the Central African Republic and later in Sudan, Libya, Mali and Burkina Faso were sustained. By strengthening its presence in Libya, Moscow may retain enough capability to pursue its broader ambitions further south in Africa, absorbing the new costs inevitably associated with Assads downfall, Harchaoui said. Geolocated video shows at least one of the planes that recently arrived at al-Khadim flew on to Bamako in Mali, where Russia has recently supplanted long-term French influence. Russian flights to Bamako via Libya demonstrate that Russia has already turned to Libya as an alternative to its Syrian bases, analysts at the American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats project said in a briefing note. The flights are not consistent with the previous pattern of Russian Africa Corps rotations to Bamako, it added. Russias Africa Corps, under the aegis of its defense ministry, is the successor to the Wagner mercenary group in Africa. The Russians have had a foothold at al-Khadim for several years, while supplying mercenary fighters and weapons to support Gen. Khalifa Haftar, the self-declared ruler of much of eastern Libya. The investigative outfit All Eyes on Wagner reported earlier this year that a secure compound had been built near the base for Russian personnel transiting to other parts of Africa. A deputy Russian defense minister, Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, has made several visits to Libya to consolidate links with Haftar in the past two years. That relationship may be set to deepen if the Russian navy is eyeing a port under Haftars control as an alternative to its facility at Tartus in Syria. A closer view of the hangars and parking area at al-Khadim on December 28. - Maxar Technologies NATO concerns The prospect is not going down well in NATO capitals. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto told Italian daily La Repubblica that, Russian ships and submarines in the Mediterranean are always a concern, and even more so if instead of being 1,000 kilometers away they are two steps from us. Its no coincidence perhaps that a week ago the Italian militarys chief of staff, Gen. Luciano Portolano, visited Tripoli where Haftars United Nations-backed rivals govern. According to a senior NATO official, the 32-member defensive alliance is monitoring activity in both Tobruk and Benghazi in Libya. A Mediterranean home for Russian warships is critical to Moscow as the Black Sea fleet is not permitted to transit the Bosphorus while Russia is at war with Ukraine. Russia has not deployed naval vessels to Tobruk just yet, which is very smart since such a brazen move could have provoked NATOs mobilization prematurely, Harchaoui said. Haftar is a mercurial and ageing leader in a chronically divided and volatile country. Haftar is often switching allegiances, only controls half of the country and is, at an age of 81, not exactly a youthful figure, said Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel Program at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Mali. There is no legal agreement like with Syria, and Haftar could anytime show the Russians the door, Laessing added. He could exploit his position to demand more sophisticated Russian hardware which Moscow can ill afford to spare. In some ways, Libya is a poor substitute for Syria. Transport planes can only practically reach Libya from Russia if they are allowed to overfly Turkey, providing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with a handy bargaining chip. The al-Khadim air base in Libya on December 17. - Maxar Technologies Damascus ambivalent Its not clear that Syrias new leadership is determined to kick the Russian military out of Hmeimim and Tartus. Interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa said in an interview this week that the new government does not want Russia to leave the country in a manner that does not fit its relations with Syria. But given Syrias uncertain trajectory, Moscow will want to hedge its bets in a region of growing strategic importance. Even if the new rulers allow Russia to keep the Hmeimim air and Tartus naval bases it will have to cut down its troop levels and logistics such as ammunition warehouses in Syria as they are no longer needed to support Assad, Laessing said. Harchaoui agreed, saying that even if Russia maintains some presence in Syria, the level of comfort, logistical ease and security it once enjoyed under Assad will never return. Russian President Vladimir Putin has shrugged off Assads ouster but Laessing said his fall was a real blow to Putins Africa ambitions. African governments that have leaned towards Moscow for their security may now think twice about its reliability, which will hamper its ability to strike new deals for the Africa Corps mercenaries, said Laessing. It didnt (go) unnoticed in Mali or Niger that Russia did not come to Assads help. Even so, Russia has dragged a coal from the fire of Assads demise, said Harchaoui. Its logistical network has neither been destroyed nor entirely decimated; it has merely been degraded and rendered more costly, more uncertain, and shakier. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Former President Jimmy Carters official state funeral will be held Jan. 9, a day that has been declared a national day of mourning by President Joe Biden. On Monday, Biden ordered federal offices closed on Jan. 9 "as a mark of respect" for Carter. The Supreme Court followed suit in the afternoon, announcing it would also be closed that day in recognition of the day of mourning. Services honoring Carter will begin Jan. 4 and include a brief pause at the family farm in Plains, Georgia, where he grew up, and a stop at the Georgia State Capitol for a moment of silence. Carter will repose in state at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta until Jan. 7 for mourners to pay their respects, before departing for Washington, D.C., where his remains will be carried to the U.S. Navy Memorial and then to the U.S. Capitol in a funeral procession. Upon arrival at the Capitol on Jan. 7, members of Congress will pay their respects during an afternoon service. He will lie in state there until Jan. 9. The state funeral will be held at the National Cathedral at 10 a.m. that day. President Biden is expected to deliver a eulogy for the late president. Carter will make his final journey home to Georgia via Special Air Mission 39 for a private funeral service at Maranatha Baptist Church on Jan. 9, followed by a private interment at the Carter family home. The public is invited to line the route to his final resting place. The U.S. Navy will honor Carter's service in the military and as commander in chief in a formation. Carter, the 39th U.S. president and the first to reach age 100, died Sunday. He had been in hospice care since February 2023 at his home in Plains, where he lived with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. The former first lady died Nov. 19, 2023, at age 96. Maranatha Baptist Church, where the former president was a member and taught Sunday school for many years, will hold a prayer vigil Monday evening. In a letter Monday, congressional leaders from both parties notified Carters son James Carter III and the Carter Center of their intent for the late president to lie in state at the Capitol. "In recognition of President Carters long and distinguished service to the nation, it is our intention to ask the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate to permit his remains lie in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol," the lawmakers said in a joint statement. "With your approval, we will move forward with these arrangements so that the American people have the opportunity to pay their respects to President Carter before he is laid to rest," they added. The Carter Center gave its approval in a statement posted to X. Former President Jimmy Carter in 2011. Biden said in remarks last year that Carter had asked him to deliver the eulogy at his funeral before catching himself and adding, Excuse me, I shouldnt say that. Carter and Biden fostered a close relationship over many decades, with Carter, a former governor of Georgia, telling how Biden supported him when he ran for president. In recorded remarks during the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Carter announced his support for then-candidate Biden, saying, When I ran for president in 1976, Joe Biden was my first and most effective supporter in the Senate. He added, For decades, he has been my loyal and dedicated friend. For Carters 100th birthday in October, Biden recognized him with a direct-to-camera birthday message shared with CBS News, saying: Mr. President, youve always been a moral force for our nation and the world. I recognized that as a young senator. Thats why I supported you so early. Youre a voice of courage, conviction, compassion, and most of all, a beloved friend of Jill and me and our family. The president and first lady Jill Biden visited Carter in April 2021, soon after Biden took office, spending almost an hour with the 39th president and his wife. The two presidents last saw each other at Rosalynn Carters funeral in November 2023, where Biden said he had the opportunity to speak briefly with Carter and tell him how much he loved him. In a statement on Truth Social on Sunday, President-elect Donald Trump also paid tribute to Carter, writing that [t]he 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. Trump added, For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global human rights work, including his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts. Through his work with the Carter Center, which he established in 1982 with his wife, Carter spent decades working in developing nations on efforts to restore human rights and build democratic institutions. In this April 12 photo, Donald Trump listens as House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a tough fight to retain the gavel even after an endorsement from Donald Trump, a test of the president-elects influence over his party amid the limits of an extraordinarily narrow majority. Trumps endorsement could help Johnson shore up support, especially after the speaker navigated a chaotic government funding fight earlier this month that drew the ire of his right flank. But with a historically small majority in the new Congress, Johnson can afford only a single Republican defection when the House picks a new speaker on Friday if every member votes. And one House Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has already said he doesnt plan to vote for Johnson. The Kentucky Republican told CNN on Monday that Trumps endorsement does not change his position. Members had been preparing for a Trump endorsement, one source told CNN. But the same source warned that it may not be enough. For now, Johnson allies are keeping close tabs on members who have not yet committed to backing him. In addition to Trumps endorsement, any GOP holdouts could also face pressure from Johnson allies over the potential consequences for the incoming president if the House does not quickly elect a speaker. Congress has never before tried to certify a presidential election without a House speaker in place, and Republicans across Washington are privately trying to game out what might happen if that scenario were to arise. So far, GOP lawmakers and senior advisers say they have found no clear options to certify Trumps win without a speaker, according to multiple sources. Some Johnson supporters are pointing to that as part of their argument for why on-the-fence GOP lawmakers should support the current speaker. To oppose Johnson now weakens the GOP and strengthens Hakeem Jeffries. It also puts at risk the Electoral College Certification scheduled for 6 Jan. These guys serve as a fifth column for the Dems, Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon told CNN. Johnson allies undertake extensive whip operation Over the last several weeks, Johnsons deputies have launched an expansive whip operation, but there are still intense challenges to getting the Louisiana Republican to 218 votes the magic number needed to win the gavel. One Republican lawmaker familiar with the outreach told CNN that while the vast majority of GOP members understand how monumentally stupid it could be to have an extensive speakers battle, not every member is swayed by an argument that the party needs to be united going into the inauguration. A vast majority of Republicans are rational, but not every member of the Republican conference is rational, the member lamented. A CNN tally of members prior to Trumps endorsement found that nearly a dozen others had not yet committed to Johnson. Trump said on Monday that Johnson has his complete and total endorsement. The American people need IMMEDIATE relief from all of the destructive policies of the last Administration. Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. MAGA!!! Trump said in a post on Truth Social. The big shadow over Johnsons speaker race: Trump certification Even former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz who has previously clashed with Johnson and his leadership team suggested his onetime colleagues should back the current speaker rather than risking Trumps certification as president. We could never have held up McCarthy two years ago for concessions if a Trump certification hung in the balance. Now, it does, Gaetz said on X, calling resistance to Johnson futile. While the speaker has no formal role in certifying the results, the House needs to be called into session. And without a speaker, the House can do nothing besides vote to elect a speaker, vote to recess and vote to adjourn. Lawmakers cant even be sworn in or set the rules of the House. Youre literally just stuck in a cyclical pattern of speaker votes with the clerk overseeing, one GOP source said, describing what would happen without a speaker at the start of a new Congress. And unlike during the Houses last speaker-less debacle in 2023, there will be no temporary leader poised to take over. When former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was ousted, Rep. Patrick McHenry took over as speaker pro tempore because he was McCarthys pick when he first took the gavel. But in the 119th Congress, a speaker must first be elected before he or she can appoint a pro tempore. Some Republicans are privately discussing ways to push the procedural limits so that Congress can certify Trumps win without a leader. One person described an emergency break glass option that would involve allowing the House to vote to go into a special session. But that would be a tough sell for many institutionalist Republicans. Another option that is being privately floated around Washington: Pushing the date of Trumps certification. There is no constitutional mandate that its got to be on January 6, another GOP source said, as long as it happens before January 20, the day of inauguration. Johnsons allies insist he will keep his gavel on Friday and is working hard to lock down the votes. But Republicans and Democrats alike are searching for answers about what would happen to certification if the House remains speaker-less three days later. When you dont have a speaker, that impacts thousands of the important tasks of governing, said one GOP lawmaker who is helping Johnson whip votes. Clearly the whip team is aware that not having a speaker is a problem for lots of reasons. Johnson faces conservative ire after spending fight After Johnson cut a deal with Democrats over spending in mid-December, Trump injected a last-minute demand to raise the debt ceiling that left Johnson grasping for a Plan B. A revised GOP plan ultimately failed to get enough Republican votes to pass and caused grumbling among Johnsons right flank that the speaker wasnt up to the job. It also caused some to wonder whether Trump would stick with Johnson ahead of the speaker fight. Massie said earlier this month that he did not plan to back Johnson in the speakers race. In response to Trumps endorsement, Massie wrote on X, I respect and support President Trump, but his endorsement of Mike Johnson is going to work out about as well as his endorsement of Speaker Paul Ryan. Weve seen Johnson partner with the democrats to send money to Ukraine, authorize spying on Americans, and blow the budget. Another challenge: The House Freedom Caucus, which includes some of the members most wary of reelecting Johnson, has not come out with a unified list of demands, creating a situation in which every member is acting a bit as a free agent. For some members, there are concerns about how the party will begin to pass individual spending bills again that address reducing the countrys debt and deficit. That could be difficult given that House Republicans have shown repeatedly they dont have the votes to pass all 12 spending bills with just GOP votes. Not to mention the fact that Republicans will continue to need Democratic votes even in a Trump administration to keep the government funded given that Republicans dont have the 60 votes needed in the Senate to pass bills on their own. Johnson is also telling people that he is not open to reducing the number of members it would take to force a vote to oust a speaker after the GOP conference agreed to raise the threshold. As part of a conference-wide negotiation in November, Republicans decided to increase the number of members it would take to force a vote on what is known as the motion to vacate from one member to nine. A source familiar with Johnsons thinking said the speaker does not believe he can reverse course on what he sees as a conference-negotiated position. When McCarthy went 15 rounds to get the speakers gavel in 2023, he eventually acquiesced to conservative demands to lower the threshold for the motion to vacate to a single member, a move that ultimately led to his ouster. This story has been updated with additional information. CNNs Manu Raju and Alayna Treene contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com President Joe Biden on Monday declared Jan. 9 a national day of mourning following the death of former President Jimmy Carter but what exactly will that mean for things like the U.S. stock market and the post office? Following Biden's declaration, various organizations like the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq announced that they would be closed on the same date in honor of Carter. The date also coincides with Carters official state funeral, which will be held at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Biden also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff starting for the next 30 days. On Monday, Biden issued an executive order closing federal offices on Jan. 9 in observance of the day of mourning. Here is what you need to know about any closures expected as a result. US stock markets Trading on the New York Stock Exchange will be closed Jan. 9 in accordance with the national day of mourning. The Nasdaq said it would be closing trading of all U.S. equities and options that day, as well. Bond markets will be open, but for reduced hours, closing early at 2 p.m. ET, according to a recommendation from the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association. "Jimmy Carter, with humble roots as a farmer and family man, devoted his life to public service and defending our freedom," Lynn Martin, president of NYSE Group, said in a news release. The New York Stock Exchange held a moment of silence Monday to honor Carter's "life and legacy," according to a post on X. The last time the New York Stock Exchange closed trading to honor the passing of a former president was in December 2018, when former President George H. W. Bush died. Start your day smart: Sign up for USA TODAY's Daily Briefing newsletter. U.S. flag hangs on the building of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York City, U.S. Supreme Court On Monday, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts ordered the Supreme Court building closed on Jan. 9 in recognition of the national day of mourning for Carter. Although the court was not scheduled to be in session that day, the court will hear arguments the next day in TikToks challenge to a federal law requiring the popular, short-form video app to divest from its Chinese parent company by Jan. 19. Will businesses and banks close on Jan. 9? National days of mourning do not require businesses or banks to close like a federal holiday normally does. Federal offices Federal offices will be closed on Jan. 9 in honor of Carter's death, following President Joe Biden executive order issued on Monday. Similarly to a federal holiday, not all federal workers will be exempt of working, as some could be deemed as vital. The United States Postal Service is expected to close on Jan. 9, as well. The last national day of mourning observed was when former President George H. W. Bush died in December 2018, when the postal service also announced it would observe the day. Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What businesses will close for Jimmy Carter's national day of mourning? Americans eat black-eyed peas for New Year's to bring about good fortune in the coming year. But that's the short answer. The long one involves a shared family tradition that celebrates the legume's prosperous legacy in Africa and the Americas. But first, a practical tip: It's time to start soaking the beans. Why do we eat black-eyed peas for New Year's? "My mother was a person that never bought canned black-eyed peas," chef Christian "Lucke" Bell said. "You would have to soak them overnight first." Sandra Rocha Evanoff's black-eyed peas and okra / Credit: Sandra Rocha Evanoff Bell can close his eyes and recall his mom's traditional dish. "They're gonna be savory," he said. "They're gonna definitely gonna go over white rice." The chef of Atlanta's popular global soul food restaurant "Oreatha's At The Point" said the beans were a part of how his family brought in the new year when he was growing up in Chicago. "From what I understand, the black-eyed peas are a semblance of coins. It's supposed to be good luck," Bell said. "Our tradition is to kind of take out the New Year in a very lavish way and hopefully that we're also taking that into the new year as well." Soul food historian and James Beard award-winning author Adrian Miller has been eating black-eyed peas during New Year's since he was a kid. "The black-eyed peas represent coins, whereas the greens represent folding money," Miller said. "My mom's from Chattanooga, Tennessee. My dad's from Helena, Arkansas. So even growing up in the suburbs of Denver, we still observe the tradition," Miller said. "After doing it for 50-plus years, the results in terms of prosperity are very mixed," Miller said. Where did the New Year's tradition originate? "A lot of cultures will have special foods on auspicious days. New Year's Day for us, Lunar New Year for a lot of cultures in Asia," said Miller. "You're carrying on this culinary tradition that goes back at least a century or more, so you feel connection." Some argue the tradition is more about honoring the past than invoking future wealth, and in the case of black-eyed peas, the link goes back to darker periods. "A lot of times, black-eyed peas and other foods from West Africa provisioned slave ships," Miller said, adding that enslaved Africans forced to endure the Middle Passage were fed cowbeans and yams. "We now know that typically the enslaved were fed black-eyed pea-based dishes during the journey, including black-eyed peas and rice, which typically is often called Hoppin' John," Miller said. Hoppin' John, or black-eyed peas, is a Southern dish to celebrate the new year. / Credit: Christian Gooden/St. Louis Post-Dispatch/Tribune News Service via Getty Images "I think people really feel a strong connection to the past, especially to their ancestors, and given the experience of African Americans in this country, to have a time-honored tradition that people love that's positive I think it's something that leads people to embrace it." Celebrations on Dec. 31, 1862, may contain more clues about the tradition, according to The National Museum of African American History and Culture. On what became known as Watch Night, or "Freedom's Eve," African Americans anxiously awaited midnight for the Emancipation Proclamation to take effect. Religious services honoring Watch Night still occur today, and according to the museum, the occasion is usually followed by a meal that includes collard greens and Hoppin' John. While researching for her cookbook, "Gifts from the Ancestors, Vol. One, Okra and Tomatoes," chef Sheri L. Raleigh, from Waco, Texas, found that black-eyed peas brought about income during the Civil War. She calls the beans an emancipation food. "Those foods helped a lot of enslaved Africans and sharecroppers be able to make their way to the North with the great migration," Raleigh said, making another argument for the lasting powers in the dish's soul. The New Year's tradition, she said, "definitely is us paying homage to the ancestors for all that they endured." "Even people in the North, like in Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia people who have roots from Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia they're going to be cooking this." In her research, Raleigh also traced the dish's evolution once it spread across the Americas. "They had to adapt," Raleigh said about African Americans who settled in different parts of the U.S. "They had to modify based on the indigenous ingredients that they found there." "You know, cooking just tells that beautiful story," Raleigh said. "If you follow a recipe, it's going to give you that heritage. Ultimately, you'll be able to tie it together and we're a lot more alike than we are different." How many people eat black-eyed peas for New Year's? While it's unclear how many people engage in the New Year's tradition, consumption of black-eyed peas is widespread. Raleigh found that black-eyed peas also brought prosperity to women in northern Brazil, where another port received millions of enslaved West Africans forced across the Atlantic Ocean. "This is our cultural history, and I think those things fuse together so you can identify with people." Raleigh trades recipes and stories with Sandra Rocha Evanoff, who lives near Seattle, Washington, but was born in Bahia state, in northeast Brazil. Evanoff chooses lentils for good luck on New Year's, as many South Americans do, but regards black-eyed peas as part of her cultural patrimony. Afro-Brazilian women prepared Acaraje, a fritter made of black-eyed peas with Yoruba origins linked to Nigeria, to sell in Salvador, Bahia's capital. Research shows street vendors would contribute profits to their masters, but retained some for their own social mobility, according to research from the University of Chicago. Acaraje, a black-eyed pea fritter sold by Afro-Brazilian women in Bahia, Brazil / Credit: Sandra Rocha Evanoff "Acaraje was a food that enslaved women in Brazil used to sell in Bahia on the streets to buy their freedom," Evanoff said. Evanoff even had black-eyed peas at her wedding which her now-husband George, a White man from Tennessee who grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana, questioned at first, since their wedding was in the middle of the year, a deviation from his family's New Year's tradition. "I told him, why not? I love black-eyed peas," Evanoff said. Do you eat black-eyed peas on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day? Adrian Miller, the soul food scholar who eats black-eyed peas on New Year's Day, says since the tradition's origin is not set in stone, neither is the day it's observed. "We usually do it New Year's Eve," Chef Christian Bell said. "We have a big kind of seafood fest with black-eyed peas and rice." Chef Sheri L. Raleigh is even less attached to the result and the timing. "I don't know I felt that superstitious about it, but I will tell you this, it's ingrained in me cause guess what I have in my freezer," Raleigh said. What to know about the College Football Playoff quarterfinals CBS News 24/7 Credits 2024 What to know about norovirus as cases surge across U.S. Police investigate at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue Station in Brooklyn after a woman aboard a subway car was set on fire and died in New York on Dec.22, 2024. The woman who was fatally set on fire in a New York City subway earlier this month has been identified as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam from Toms River, New Jersey, police said Tuesday. Kawam was asleep on an idle F train at the Stillwell Avenue station, in Brooklyn, on Dec. 22, when just before 7:30 a.m. a man set her on fire and fled, according to the New York Police Department. Police did not share any additional information about the victim. The initial release from the NYPD said she was 61, but the age was corrected in a later release. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Kawam had "a brief stint" in the city's homeless shelter system. "Our hearts go out to the family," Adams said during a news conference Tuesday. "A horrific incident to have to live through and just watching that tape, just really, I couldn't even watch it all the way through. It was just a bad incident and it impacts on how New Yorkers feel." Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez told reporters last week that his heart goes out to the victim and her family. "Just because someone appears to have been living in the situation of homelessness does not mean that theres not going to be family devastated by the tragic way she lost her life," Gonzalez said. A vigil was held for Kawam on Thursday at the Stillwell Avenue station. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, a Guatemalan citizen, was arrested in connection with Kawam's murder the same day, after he was caught on police body camera footage. Subway riders called 911 when they spotted him hours later and officers took him into custody. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, accused of setting a woman on fire inside a New York City subway train, appears in court on Dec. 24. He was indicted on four counts of murder and one count of arson on Friday, per prosecutors. A grand jury indictment was announced in court on one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson, according to the Brooklyn District Attorney's office. The first-degree murder charge carries the possibility of life without parole. Zapeta-Calil appeared in Brooklyn court Tuesday and was remanded back into custody. The Guatemalan citizen is in the U.S. unlawfully and was previously deported, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials. At a memorial event in Jordan Hall in Boston on September 29, 2024, these were my remarks: This concert hall, this space, the vibrating air in here, the music thats been heard, those sounds. The piano playing done on this stage In 1907, Ferruccio Busoni played the piano right about here. Arthur Rubinsteins first Boston concert, right here in 1904. And Russell Sherman, pianist, many, many times. He played here, imore than 30 solo recitals over four decades in this space. He played music by Ludwig Beethoven, and Schubert, and Brahms, and Gunther Schuller and Arnold Schoenberg, and Ralph Shapey, and Johann Sebastian Bach, and Haydn, and Debussy, and Gershwin, and he played music by Edward Steuermann Edward Steuermann, Mr. Shermans piano teacher. Edward Steuermann, the first performer of Schoenbergs piano music. And Steuermann a student of Busoni who played right here in 1907. The air here it vibrates, always, there is music This is a place of oratory also. Of speaking, The pianist Ignaz Paderewski spoke words here in 1917, during a war. As Evgeny Kissin did in 2022. Carl Phillipp Emanuel Bach, Johann Sebastians son, wrote that: The keyboardist alone, can make excellently, the quickly surprising the change in speech between one character and another I say, thats oratory, thats speaking through wordless music. Certainly Russell Sherman was an orator, a speaker, and then a writer of words too. But just in the music-making itself he conveyed ideas, he expressed opinions. How his playing of a quizzical phrase of Beethovens Op. 28 could change what you thought you knew. How Brahms Paganini Variations became a tone poem. How a mysterious wash of pedaled piano sound could make spirits or specters come forth from the black box. After hearing Russell play Liszts Funerailles, I understood Busonis description of the pianos pedal: a photograph of the sky a ray of moonlight, said Busoni. Sherman did not so much play the piano as use the piano. It was a tool for conveying delicate, or provocative thought a disruptive questioning of many assumptions of ordinary classical-music culture. His repeated performances of a piece might vary a lot, evolving through his conscious work, or sometimes changing quixotically, unexplainably. Mr. Shermans playing was not generic. He liked very much the sentiment of Baudelaire: Le beau est toujours bizarre (The beautiful is always strange.) About half way back in the balcony up there, I sat one night in this room, with tears streaming down my face, as Mr Sherman conjured Liszts Fountains at the Villa dEste. Before he played, Mr. Sherman told the audience that the piece combines two verities of 19th-century music water and faith. Something about his playing of the rhythm that night, the sustained plangent melody notes in the middle register, something slightly hesitating in the high notes, quivering even, yet unstoppable. Water and Faith, he said. I was crying. How was this transmission, this transfer of emotion accomplished? I dont know. Those vibrations in this room, passing through this air, to the skin, to the ear of a listener Truly, the course of my life was changed by Russell Sherman. I never had a piano lesson with him, but he offered us all many lessons, of many kinds. Im sure I would not be at New England Conservatory without his thought, and work. When my own teacher died in New York City, Mr. Sherman was among the very first to call me. I know how deeply you felt about him, Russell said, how deeply the death of a teacher can hurt. The preeminence of the New England Conservatory piano faculty today in the world this magnificent group of musicians of whom I am very proud, very proud this all traces to the earlier work of Mr. Sherman, and then to Wha Kyung Byun. Lets not underestimate it. It seems coincidental to me now, that in the first weeks I lived in New York, I walked by Lincoln Center and there was one of those big three-sheet posters, 80 inches high: Russell Sherman will play Franz Liszts Transcendental Etudes. I got a ticket and went to one of my first big-city concerts, a memorable performance. Years later, Russell told me, that following that same concert, two well known Juilliard piano faculty members came to him backstage. One of them asked, How can you play like that? (And he meant how can you play that well, it was a compliment.) Russell answered, I have no professional standards. And what did that mean? We live in a world where well-paid symphony orchestra players are esteemed, not really because they play music very well (they do), but because they work fast. They can handle a different concert program each week for many weeks and achieve a professional level of playing. A pianist can be praised today, for playing five demanding virtuoso piano concertos in a single night. I believe Mr. Sherman didnt count the hours. How much attention to pay to a detail to a turn of phrase? How much time to practice it? How much time to spend preparing a meal, how much time to spend preparing an offering There was no limit. Professional speed, professional efficiency might not be a virtue. Russell Sherman had an international reputation, but he was a Boston hero. When I contemplate the roaring ovations that we witnessed in this room, the fervor of those crowds, the intense praise of esteemed Boston music critics, Mr. Sherman stepping in for Maurizio Pollini to play a concerto by Beethoven at the very last minute, with the Boston Symphony across the street thats a hero! Mr. Sherman was the Red Sox. (Although, I know he preferred the Dodgers.) Im not sure such heroes can exist now. It was a remarkable time. And we hear that in his playing, we hear that in his wordless oratory, in his conjuring, in these offerings. You will hear it, you are about to hear it now. (At the event on September 29, these remarks were followed by the showing of several archival films.) 31 December 2024 10:19 (UTC+04:00) "Out of 17 Azerbaijani citizens injured in the plane crash that occurred on December 25, 3 were continuing their treatment in Kazakhstan. As a result of the prompt and professional approach of Kazakh colleagues, the issue of their evacuation to Baku was discussed today. On the instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, two special medical aircraft were sent to the city of Aktau. Currently, these three Azerbaijani citizens have been brought to Baku and are continuing their treatment in the intensive care unit of the "Yeni Klinika" medical institution. The condition of all of them is serious-stable." According to Azernews, Azerbaijan's Health Minister, Teymur Musayev stated this in an interview with journalists. According to the minister, nine of the 17 injured people were discharged home today. Three are currently in intensive care, and five are receiving treatment in the hospital. 31 December 2024 12:23 (UTC+04:00) Azerbaijani Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov congratulated the personnel of the Azerbaijani Army on December 31 - World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year holiday. Azernews presents the congratulatory message via the Defence Ministry: "Gentlemen officers, fellow warrant officers, midshipmen, cadets, sergeants, soldiers, sailors and civilian employees! I sincerely congratulate you on the occasion of "December 31 - Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis" and "New Year's Holiday", and I wish each of you good health and new successes in your honorable service. This significant day, established on the initiative of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, embodies the unity and solidarity of Azerbaijanis around the world. It once again reminds us of how important solidarity is for the happy future of our people, the independence and sovereignty of our country. The Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis, which symbolizes the solidarity of Azerbaijanis around the world who have heroically emerged from historical trials, and the idea of Azerbaijaniism that has led our people to success, is of special importance for Azerbaijanis living in different countries of the world. The achievements of our country are an important factor in ensuring the unity of our compatriots around our independent state. As a result of the domestic and foreign policy pursued by the Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, who successfully continued the political course of the Great Leader in the field of army building, and the projects implemented to train personnel, equip our army with modern weapons and equipment, and increase its combat potential, the Azerbaijani Army has acquired the status of a victorious and victorious army. The Victory achieved in the 44-day Patriotic War under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, has strengthened our people's faith in a successful future by uniting them even more closely for the sake of the progress and increase of our state's international prestige. Our republic, whose territorial integrity, and inviolability of its borders have been ensured, and whose national interests, welfare, and values of its population have been protected, has become the leading state of the region. As always, on this holiday, we honor and respect our heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the protection of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country, and cherish their unforgettable memories. The family members of our heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland, as well as our military personnel who lost their health during military operations, have been surrounded with constant care by the victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Mr. Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva. I congratulate the families of the martyrs and our military personnel who lost their health during military operations while standing firm in the defense of our lands on the occasion of December 31 - Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis and New Year's Holiday, and convey my best wishes to them. I am confident that you will always remain loyal to the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Military Statute and regulations, be inspired by the victory achieved in the Patriotic War, strengthen your combat and moral and psychological preparation, and further increase your efforts and skills to achieve new successes in your service. Once again, I heartily congratulate each of you on the occasion of "December 31 - Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis" and "New Year's Holiday", and I wish you good health, long life, joyful and prosperous days, family happiness, and success in your honorable service in the upcoming new year 2025. Happy holiday!" 31 December 2024 13:19 (UTC+04:00) An event dedicated to December 31, the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis, was held in Times Square in New York. Azernews reports that the event was organized by the Azerbaijani-American Youth Federation (AAYF) with the assistance of the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora of Azerbaijan. One of the central LED screens of the square broadcasts unique video materials telling about the history of Azerbaijan, its rich national traditions, and territorial integrity, and also demonstrating the state flag, national costumes, and dances. AAYF activists, including Azerbaijani students studying in the United States, personally interacted with tourists and New Yorkers, telling them about the significance of the event. The event will continue throughout the day. 31 December 2024 14:39 (UTC+04:00) Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President of the Republic of Suriname, has sent a letter of condolences to President Ilham Aliyev on the tragic AZAL plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. Azernews presents the letter: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Excellency, We are truly saddened by the news about the tragic plane crash on 25 December 2024, in which precious lives were lost and many were injured. On behalf of the Government and People of the Republic of Suriname, I extend sympathy and sincere condolences to the Government and People of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, who have lost their loved ones. It is our hope that the injured passengers will have a speedy and full recovery. May the Almighty give you and your People the strength to endure this tragedy. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem. Chandrikapersad Santokhi President of the Republic of Suriname 31 December 2024 18:50 (UTC+04:00) The Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Fuad Najafli, state, and government officials arrived at Heydar Aliyev Avenue in Nakhchivan city, inquired about the status of preparations for the "Snowfest - Winter Festival" organized there, had a cordial conversation with residents, and took commemorative photos with children. Azernews reports, citing Azertag that the authorized representative was given detailed information about the preparations for the festival. It was noted that the New Year's village is decorated with an original design, colorful lighting systems, and decorations, and the largest Christmas tree in the city has been installed here. Catering services are provided to residents and guests of the autonomous republic in kiosks set up in accordance with the general atmosphere of the New Year's town. The authorized representative, who was familiarized with the products presented at the catering kiosks, was informed that various products prepared by production and catering facilities operating in the autonomous republic, as well as family farms operating in the regions, as well as handicrafts and toys, are presented to the festival participants. "Face art" and various other entertaining games were organized for children around the Christmas tree. In accordance with tradition, the New Year's wishes of students studying at the Ordubad City Boarding Secondary School were included on the wishing tree set up at the event this year. It should be noted that all the wishes of the students will come true. 31 December 2024 23:44 (UTC+04:00) President Ilham Aliyev addressed the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year. Azernews presents the full speech: We are successfully concluding the year 2024. All the goals we set at the beginning of the year have been met. Our country has developed confidently. Our country's international reputation has increased significantly. There is positive development in the country's economy. Our military power has increased. Stability prevails in our country. The Azerbaijani people are living in conditions of security. The events unfolding in the world today are clearly visible to all of us. New wars, confrontations and conflicts are flaring up. Bloody clashes continue in different regions of the world. Azerbaijan, however, lives in peace, tranquility, security and stability. I am sure that stability and peace will be eternal in the future too. Many important developments took place in 2024. The most important of them was the liberation of four villages of Gazakh district, which were occupied in the early 1990s. We never took a step back from our position regarding these villages. We never forgot about these villages. The restoration of our territorial integrity and sovereignty simply had its own logic. We deal with everything, all the issues with confidence and consistency. At the first stage, we liberated a large part of Karabakh and East Zangezur from the occupiers in the Patriotic War in 2020. The part that remained under occupation was liberated from the occupiers through the anti-terror operation last year, and Azerbaijan restored its state sovereignty. This year, we regained four villages of Gazakh district without a single shot being fired, through political means. But it is also true that if the events that have occurred in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations over the past four years had not taken place, Armenia, of course, would never have voluntarily returned these villages to us. They were forced to do it. They did this realizing our political and military power, and I hope that from now on Armenia, while pursuing its policies, will continue to take into account the new realities created in the South Caucasus and, at the same time, in the world. We have created the new realities in the South Caucasus. The Patriotic War has created these realities. The restoration of our state sovereignty further strengthened these realities, and we reaffirmed the new realities we created in the South Caucasus on the diplomatic, international and political levels. The whole world has accepted the new realities. Therefore, I believe that Armenia's large-scale armament campaign is yet another source of threat to the region. If we were to note the most worrying moment for us this year, of course, it would be Armenia's armament. There is no logical explanation for this. Armenia has faced a complete fiasco with its policy of aggression. Their military defeats in 2020 and then 2023 should have shown them the right path. We were trying to do this and are continuing our efforts to this day. I have repeatedly urged them both in my official statements and during our negotiations with the Armenian side to stay away from this dangerous path. The foreign circles and foreign countries provoking them and pushing them to attack Azerbaijan again will not stand behind them. They simply will not be able to. No force in this region can compete with us militarily. Therefore, let me say again, it is not too late for them to turn back from this dangerous path. The South Caucasus should be a region of peace, security and cooperation. Armenia's large-scale and rapid militarization, the supply of deadly weapons can disrupt this peace, the possible peace. I must also mention one thing. Azerbaijan will not simply observe this. Thirty years of occupation and destruction, the devastation of Karabakh and East Zangezur, the Khojaly genocide, the fact that one million of our compatriots became refugees and displaced persons because of Armenia will never be erased from our memory. We will never forget this. Armenia's policy, its aggressive substance must always be taken into account. Therefore, I once again feel obliged to warn the Armenian leadership to refrain from this dangerous path. Moreover, they are not capable of competing with us in military or any other field. Given the large-scale militarization of Armenia, we have significantly increased our military budget for the coming year. It has reached a record level of 8.4 billion manats. Let me repeat that we were compelled to raise it to this level. Because we cannot lag behind in the arms race initiated by Armenia in the South Caucasus. However, if this arms race had not occurred, at least half of this money would have been channeled into other areas such as the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur and addressing the social problems of our citizens. Just for comparison, let me say that our military expenses will be 8.4 billion manats. Next year, we are allocating 4 billion manats to Karabakh and East Zangezur. It could have been the exact opposite. But Armenia and countries that stand behind it and give it harmful advices simply wont let this happen. Nevertheless, the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur is progressing successfully. About 10,000 former internally displaced persons have already returned to these lands. The best conditions have been created for them. In general, more than 30,000 people live and work in liberated territories both in the newly opened enterprises and social facilities, and in construction. Next year, of course, the number of citizens who will return there will increase significantly. I must also note that from 2021 to the present, Azerbaijan has allocated more than 19 billion manats for the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur, and the implementation of the Great Return Program will continue to be a priority for us. Of course, our economy must develop in order to accomplish all these tasks. There are good results here too. This year, the gross domestic product grew by more than 4 percent, the non-oil sector expanded by more than 6 percent, and the non-oil industrial sector saw an increase of over 7 percent. We have increased our foreign exchange reserves and currently have more than 72 billion dollars in foreign exchange reserves. At the same time, we have also reduced our foreign debt. Today, Azerbaijan's foreign debt is only 5.2 billion dollars. In other words, our foreign exchange reserves exceed our foreign debt 14 times. If there is any developed country with figures close to these, show them to me. Therefore, in addition to all this worksuch as the restoration of Karabakh and East Zangezur, the strengthening of our military power, and the implementation of social projectswe have also achieved these significant macroeconomic figures. We have both reduced our debt and increased our reserves, and this allows us the opportunity to implement extensive social programs. I can say that since 2019, four social package projects and programs have been implemented. A fifth package will be implemented next year. The funds allocated and to be allocated for these projects will constitute 7.5 billion manats. As for the social sphere, I must also note that starting from 2025, the minimum wage will be increased from 345 manats to 400 manats, and the minimum pension from 280 manats to 320 manats. The increase constitutes approximately 14-15 percent. In other words, despite the implementation of all these major investment projects, the social sphere, people's livelihoods, and social protection will always be in the spotlight. This year, the COP29 climate conference was held in Azerbaijan. I can say that this is the largest international event in the history of our independence, and I believe that it is the largest and most prestigious international conference in the world. We successfully hosted this major event in a matter of eleven months. The 76,000 registered participants witnessed Azerbaijan's potential firsthand. A total of 197 countries, 80 heads of state and government and vice presidents participated in the conference. This once again shows that all the efforts of some Western countries, so-called non-governmental organizations under their control and fake media outlets that wanted to use COP29 against Azerbaijan for eleven months were in vain. Their campaign is still ongoing. After COP, for almost two months now, a campaign of evil, slander, lies and fabrications has been underway against us. It aims to slander Azerbaijan and to damage its reputation. I do not even want to mention the names of the countries behind it. The Azerbaijani people know those countries perfectly well. The Azerbaijani people know very well from which source non-governmental organizations receive funds and from which capital they receive instructions. I hope that starting from the end of January next year, this policy of discrimination, evil and slander against Azerbaijan will be stopped. In any case, our hopes are high. This year, the people of Azerbaijan placed great trust in me again. The support shown to me in the presidential election inspires and strengthens me even more. It convinces me even more that we are moving forward on the right path and that I will live up to this high trust in the future. I do believe that the people of Azerbaijan have no doubts about this either. Azerbaijan has been developing confidently, successfully and with dignity for 21 years. During these years, there have been difficulties, moments of trial, wars and groundless accusations against us. But none of them, not a single one of them could divert us from our path. We have restored our territorial integrity, and despite the wishes of world powers, we have also restored our state sovereignty also contrary to the will of great powers. We are also governing our country with confidence. Those who want to put a spoke in our wheel will fail again. Dear compatriots, today is the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. I sincerely congratulate Azerbaijanis living all over the world on this holiday. I wish my dear people good health, prosperity, happiness and the best of luck. Happy holidays! 31 December 2024 23:51 (UTC+04:00) I believe that Armenia's large-scale armament campaign is yet another source of threat to the region. If we were to note the most worrying moment for us this year, of course, it would be Armenia's armament, Azernews reports that President Ilham Aliyev said in his address on the occasion of the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year. There is no logical explanation for this. Armenia has faced a complete fiasco with its policy of aggression, pointed out the head of state. 31 December 2024 12:57 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. Azerbaijani Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov has announced the amount of natural gas exported to Europe from Azerbaijan. Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention. Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis. By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more. Subscribe You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper Thank you! 31 December 2024 14:00 (UTC+04:00) The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said on Monday that 27 people were killed in the Palestinian territory in the past 24 hours, taking the overall death toll of the war to 45,541. The ministry also said in a statement that at least 108,338 people had been wounded in more than 14 months of war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Palestinian group's October 7, 2023 attack. Israel's military had killed approximately 20 Palestinians in a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) said it left the area's last major health facility emptied of patients and staff. Gaza health officials and the WHO said the raid forced the hospital out of service. 31 December 2024 19:16 (UTC+04:00) Turkiye supports intensifying steps to end the war in Ukraine. Diplomatic sources in Ankara told RIA Novosti about the expected meeting of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan with his Belgian counterpart Bernard Quentin. It was noted that Ankara continues to support a diplomatic solution to the war. The source also stressed the importance of the negotiation process to achieve peace. It was stated that a historic opportunity has arisen to ensure stability in Syria, which is important for the entire region and Europe. According to the information, the Belgian minister is scheduled to visit Turkey on January 2: "During the expected talks, Fidan will draw attention to the importance of constructive cooperation between Turkey and the European Union (EU), as well as the importance of a just and sustainable solution to the conflict in Ukraine through diplomatic channels." It should be noted that a source in Ankara previously stated that Turkey has not yet received any requests from the parties regarding the organization of talks on Ukraine in Istanbul. Recall that the large-scale war between Russia and Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously said that he hoped the war would end in 2025. 31 December 2024 23:25 (UTC+04:00) Ukraine is violating its constitutional norms and international obligations during mobilization. According to Azernews, this is stated in the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The report also noted that Kyiv's claims about the legality of the ban on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church are not supported by sufficient evidence. Recently, the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (2014-2019) Viktor Muzhenko acknowledged the need to lower the conscription age in the Ukrainian army to 18 or 20. Earlier, Ukrainian media reported that a project to lower the mobilization age was already being discussed in the Rada. The key censorship organ in the US government has been an agency located in the State Department established during the Obama regime called the Global Engagement Center. Its cover story was to counter lies told by Russia and China, but it quickly grew into an agency intent on enforcing the liberal / globalist narrative and censoring any opinions contrary to that narrative. While ostensibly created to work only in the international space, it was soon conducting much of its operation domestically. It still worked internationally, giving grants to pro-censorship groups working in other countries. It was recently outted, for example for giving grants to pro-censorship groups in Brazil. Now, to the joy of everyone who values freedom of speech, the Global Engagement Center has been forced by the latest budget deal to close up shop and go defunct. It almost did not happen. Speaker Mike Johnson in his first 1400 page "continuing resolution" or "cramnibus" where he caved in to the Democrats specifically funded this agency for another year, which conservatives immediately objected to. Under pressure from conservatives, the continuing resolution that finally passed cut off all funds to the censorship agency. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/obamas-censorship-office-goes-bankrupt But as renowned George Washington University Law Professor and free speech stalwart Jonathan Turley points out, while the GEC was the worst offender, there are other government tenacles nurtured by the Biden regime which also push censorship, and also need to be eliminated. https://jonathanturley.org/2024/12/31/a-new-years-resolution-lets-get-the-united-states-out-of-the-censorship-business/ Beaufort County Schools are building a new school on the same ground where Eastern Elementary already exists, at a cost of $10,500,000.00 to Beaufort County's Taxpayers. Is this a wise expense of taxpayer dollars at this time? 22.73% Yes, Beaufort County has been awarded a 42 million dollars of grant money from the state of North Carolina (FREE MONEY) to construct school at 3.00 per squ. ft.65.91% No, this is the wrong time, to build the wrong school, on the wrong placement - its lowest point - of Eastern Elementary's existing location, when community schools work best.11.36% Why should I care about the public's education? Brian Cross, CRNA, owner of Youngstown, Ohio-based CS Anesthesia, joined Beckers to discuss the long-term implications of anesthesia reimbursement cuts and the biggest misconception about anesthesia billing. Question: Could you characterize the long-term implications of anesthesia cuts trends on patients? Brian Cross: Long-term, I can see anesthesia groups going out of network and charging patients directly. In the next five to 10 years, large groups may exit insurance networks altogether. Theyd bill patients, who would then have to fight to get reimbursed by their insurers. Its not unlikely. Theres going to be a breaking point for smaller companies like mine. I hire [certified registered nurse anesthetists] to work for me, but the costs are almost too high to justify keeping contracts with surgery centers. These centers are going to have to increase their volume to stay viable. Right now, CRNAs and anesthesiologists expect to be paid for an eight-hour day, but if the surgery center finishes in six hours, thats lost revenue. Unless things change, this entire system will likely hit a breaking point within five years. Q: What would you say is the biggest misconception about anesthesia billing? BC: The biggest misconception is that we get paid lots and lots of money, especially because, in most realms, from Medicare, youre getting about 30 to 35% of what we would typically get from private insurance companies. Its kind of bizarre how, in our world, every year we could be doing the same amount of cases, everything, same number of centers that were billing, and we keep getting less and less and less. And I dont think the payers are taking pay cuts, to be honest. Here are the three hospitals: 1. Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare will demolish its empty Mission Hospital St. Joseph campus in Asheville, N.C. The decision was influenced by current building codes and facility deterioration that was exacerbated by Hurricane Helene. HCAs Mission Health closed its Asheville Specialty Hospital, a long-term acute care hospital located on the St. Josephs campus, in late November. The hospital suspended services during the storm. 2. ShorePoint Health Punta Gorda (Fla.) hospital will remain closed after sustaining significant damage during Hurricanes Helene and Milton this fall. Operations at the 208-bed hospital and its emergency department were suspended ahead of the hurricanes in September, but the facility sustained irreparable damage from the storm surge and flooding. 3. Dallas-based Steward Health Care filed a closure notice for its Sharon (Pa.) Regional Medical Center after Meadville (Pa.) Medical Center withdrew its proposed transaction of the hospital. The Dec. 16 notice proposed a Jan. 6 closure date for the 163-bed hospital. 1. Winner (S.D.) Regional Health will end labor and delivery services, effective Feb. 1. The service closure comes amid physician recruitment challenges and reimbursement difficulties. 2. Roseville, Calif.-based Adventist Healths Moorpark (Calif.) Urgent Care facility closed Dec. 6 due to low volume.The closure resulted in around 12 employees being laid off. 3. Greenwood (Miss.) Leflore Hospital will close its Wound Care Center, effective Jan. 2. The hospital attributed the move to the unexpected death of Raymond Girnys, MD, and the cancellation of its contract with Wound Management Specialists. 4. Lewiston, Maine-based St. Marys Health System will phase out ICU services at its flagship hospital by the end of the year as part of a plan to realign strategic focus on high-demand services in the region. 5. Cincinnati-based Mercy Health West Hospital, part of Cincinnati-based Mercy Health, will end its obstetrics labor and delivery program. The services will be transitioned to Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital, also in Cincinnati, beginning Dec. 20 due to a shortage in staffing. 6. University of Michigan Health Plan through Ann Arbor-based Michigan Medicine will end after 2025 following financial losses in recent years. On Dec. 6, HaysMed filed a counterclaim against one of the plaintiffs, Jerod Grove, MD, a general surgeon who alleged that the noncompete clause in his contract was restricting him from practicing medicine in western Kansas and left his position Nov. 12. Shortly thereafter, he signed a contract with Greeley Health to work at Tribune (Kan.) Medical Center. HaysMeds administration, citing a board directive, then enforced the noncompete clause, effectively barring Dr. Grove from practicing at Tribune or other locations in the region, according to the report. In its counterclaim, the hospital alleges that Dr. Grove breached his contract, which restricts him from working within a certain distance of HaysMed. The hospital further claims that Dr. Grove planned to leave HaysMed to work in Tribune, a move it argues violated the noncompete agreement. HaysMed also asserts that this breach led Greeley County to terminate its four-year agreement with the hospital. As a result, the hospital has filed a third-party complaint against Greeley County Health Services, accusing it of interfering with the contract. The other lawsuit was filed by oncologist Robert Rodriguez, MD, who plans to leave HaysMed by February, according to a Dec. 29 report by KWCH 12 News. According to the report, the filings have raised concerns among healthcare professionals in western Kansas, who told KWCH that noncompetes and restrictive covenants complicate an already challenging recruitment environment in the region. Theres an abundance of medical need. Theres an abundance of need. And if youd think about your grandmother. Where would you rather have her go? Youd rather have her go to a local town, and then if she had to have care, then youd rather have her go to a regional center, Donald Tillman, DO, a dermatologist at Great Plains Dermatology, also located in Hays, told the publication. Charles Comeau, chair of the board of the Rooks County Health Center, also noted the difficulties with recruiting physicians in Western Kansas. Neither the Rooks County Health Center nor Great Plains Dermatology have restrictive covenants. In the lawsuits filed by Dr. Grove and Dr. Rodriguez, the physicians said that their two-year noncompetes extend 110 miles around Hays and 30 miles from where they may have done outreach at a hospital for HaysMed. They argue that part of the reason they are seeking to prevent enforcement of the restrictive covenant is the limited number of physicians in their specialties in the region. We must make our decisions based on what is best for HaysMed and our patients. This includes our approach to physician contracting, the hospital said in a Dec. 5 statement. Like most hospitals, HaysMed requires noncompete agreements. We are not unique in that regard. Moreover, this is not a new practice. This has been our practice since the early 1990s, which has served HaysMed and our patients well by enabling HaysMed to provide assurances to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide needed care. Here are six things to know about the new law: 1. The law, the Fair Contracting for Health Care Practitioners Act, still allows health systems and other employers to limit physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists from taking from competitors for up to a year. 2. The bill was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro in July; it also does not limit the geographic reach of noncompetes. 3. The law leaves existing restrictions from contracts signed in prior years in place. 4. State Rep. Dan Frankel introduced a bill in August 2023 that sought to ban all noncompete agreements for healthcare practitioners in the state. A subsequent version of this bill in 2024 allowed them for up to two years with 45 miles of geographic restriction. 5. The law says employers cannot enforce a noncompete against a physician who was dismissed, but it does not define dismissed, according to the Inquirer. 6. The law does allow noncompete enforcement when a practice is sold but is unclear on how noncompetes can be enforced when a physician sells their equity interest back to a practice when they wish to leave, the report said. Alabama Union Springs-based Bullock County Hospital laid off 95 employees April 9. Arkansas Little Rock-based Arkansas Heart Hospital laid off less than 50 employees since the beginning of 2024. California Coniva.-based Emanate Health will lay off a total of 107 employees. Glendale-based University of Southern California Verdugo Hills Hospital closed its labor and delivery services and neonatal intensive care unit on Nov. 20, and laid off 65 employees. Oakland-based Kaiser Foundation Hospitals laid off 76 employees in California. AHMCs San Gabriel Valley Medical Center laid off 62 employees May 13. Sacramento-based University of California Davis Health eliminated 150 positions, prompted by an increase in expenses. Modesto-based Stanislaus Surgical Hospital laid off 191 employees amid a decision from CMS to end the hospitals Medicare contract. Ridgecrest Regional Hospital announced 31 more layoffs to avoid closure. Oakdale-based Oak Valley Hospital District laid off 28 workers to improve its finances. Fountain Valley.-based MemorialCare laid off 72 workers at its Long Beach Medical Center and Long Beach-based Miller Childrens and Womens Hospital. Connecticut Bristol Health cut 60 positions amid ongoing financial challenges. Florida Bradenton.-based MCR Health, a nonprofit medical group, filed several WARN notices to lay off a total of 47 employees after seeking Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Doral-based Sanitas Medical Center laid off 56 employees between May 17 and May 20. Miami-based Jackson Health System has laid off fewer than 25 people in 2024. Miami-based North Shore Medical Center, part of Dallas-based Steward Health Care, laid off around 150 employees. Illinois Ann & Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital in Chicago laid off a very small number of employees after a comprehensive budget review earlier this year. Chicago-based Rush University System for Health laid off an undisclosed number of workers in administrative and leadership positions, Indiana Bloomington-based Keplr Vision filed a WARN notice with the state in August to cut 100 members of its workforce. Maine Lewiston-based Central Maine Healthcare laid off 45 employees as part of a management reorganization. Massachusetts Cambridge.-based Beth Israel Lahey, which operates 14 hospitals, eliminated jobs as it navigates rising costs, although did not specify exactly how many. Dallas-based Steward Health Care laid off 1,243 employees as a result of the closure of Dorchester, Mass.-based Carney Hospital and Ayer, Mass.-based Nashoba Valley Medical Center. Burlington-based Tufts Medicine laid off 174 employees due to industry challenges. Michigan Pontiac General Hospital filed a WARN notice Nov. 15 to lay off 248 employees after unexpectedly learning that it was excluded from receiving Medicare funds. CMS filed a notice Nov. 8 that the hospital was not in compliance with several conditions of participation and that Medicare would halt payment for inpatient hospital services on or after Nov. 24. Missouri Signature Psychiatric Hospital closed its two locations in Kansas City, Mo., and Liberty, Mo., laying off 154 employees. Minnesota Robbinsdale-based North Memorial Health laid off more than 100 employees, citing ongoing financial challenges. New Jersey RWJBarnabas Health, based in West Orange, laid off 79 employees. Basking Ridge-based OptumCare announced plans to lay off 160 employees. New Hampshire Manchester-based Catholic Medical Center cut 142 positions, including 54 layoffs. New York Westchester Medical Center Health Network, a nine-hospital system based in Valhalla, N.Y., is laying off 130 people, primarily in managerial and corporate positions. Schenectady-based Ellis Medicine laid off 33 employees after the closure of its nursing home and rehabilitation center. Affected employees were offered positions within the organization and most accepted. Ohio Norwalk-based Fisher-Titus Medical Center laid off seven workers in nonclinical roles April 1. Cincinnati-based Mercy Health laid off some call center positions. Oregon Chicago-based CommonSpirit announced plans to lay off 18 workers at hospitals in Oregon and Tennessee as a result of a $365 million operating loss. Coos Bay-based Bay Area Hospital laid off 27 workers in non-patient-facing roles as it outsources its revenue cycle management operations. Medford-based Asante health system laid off about 3% of its workforce. Pennsylvania Pittsburgh-based UPMC confirmed it will lay off about 100 employees. Allentown-based Lehigh Valley Health Network is cutting its chiropractic services and laid off 10 chiropractors. Texas Houston-based Texas Childrens Hospital initiated plans to lay off approximately 1,000 employees, including frontline healthcare workers and those in leadership positions. Select Specialty Hospital in Longview will close on or about June 30, affecting 94 employees. Dallas-based White Rock Medical Center laid off 158 employees nearly 35% of its staff. Lion Star, which operates Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital, closed four clinics March 22, laying off under 50 people. Amarillo-based Northwest Texas Healthcare System, also part of Universal Health Services, announced plans to lay off several positions. Vermont Burlington-based University of Vermont Health Network cut 130 open positions. Washington Providence Swedish South Puget Sound, the operator of Olympia, Wash.-based Providence St. Peter Hospital plans to reduce the majority of its outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy services in January. The affected clinics and services will shutter Jan. 17, resulting in 55 layoffs. Washington, D.C. George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C., part of King of Prussia, Pa.-based Universal Health Services, laid off less than 3% of its employees Wisconsin Marshfield Clinic Health System laid off previously furloughed employees, about 3% of its workforce. 1. Lakewood, Colo.-based Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates faced a cyberattack impacting more than 366,000 patients, which was identified Sept. 13. Information breached includes names, addresses, dates of birth, patient account numbers, medical record numbers, Social Security numbers, health insurance identification numbers, and health information such as diagnoses and treatment information. 2. Connecticut GI and Gastroenterology Associates of Fairfield faced a data breach affecting 10,568 patients. On June 19, the clinics learned that an unauthorized party had entered their systems between June 5-7 and copied certain patient data. A review of stolen data determined that patient names and financial account information had been compromised. 3. Rockford (Ill.) Gastroenterology Associates filed a notice of data breach with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights on Oct. 30 after becoming aware of a 2023 cyberattack. On Oct. 30, the practice sent a letter to 147,253 patients explaining that the incident resulted in an unauthorized party being able to access patients sensitive information, which included their personal information and health information. 4. The Gastroenterology Associates of Central Florida also known as the Center for Digestive Health notified the Attorney General of Massachusetts of a data breach in its system on May 29. The center discovered that an unauthorized party accessed the organizations computer system. The unauthorized party was able to access patients sensitive information, including names, Social Security numbers and financial information. 5. Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology again faced cyberattacks from at least three online criminal groups accessing the data of more than 169,000 patients. Findings suggest that the practice, which operates 26 locations, was targeted by cybercriminal groups Meow Leaks, RandomHub and Trinity. 1. Bloomington, Ill.-based VisionPoint Eye Center notified current and former patients about a network security incident that was detected on Oct. 3 when an unauthorized party gained access to VisionPoints network environment. Information that may have been exposed includes first and last names, medical record numbers, health insurance information and medical information. 2. Dallas-based Texas Retina Associates experienced a data breach affecting 312,867 individuals. The practice said it detected unusual activity on its network March 27 and used third-party cybersecurity experts to conduct an investigation. The investigation determined that an unauthorized actor accessed its systems beginning on Oct. 8, 2023, and may have accessed or obtained certain files. 3. Nashville-based Optometric Physicians of Middle Tennessee filed a notice of data breach with HHS on April 4. Upon completing an investigation, OPMT determined that the breach resulted in an unauthorized party accessing confidential patient information. 4. Fort Collins, Colo.-based Panorama Eyecare notified patients that an unauthorized party may have gained access to the companys internal network. Patient and employee data that may have been affected include Social Security numbers, dates of birth, drivers licenses, state IDs, financial account information, dates of service and medical provider. 5. Victoria (Texas) Eye Center, Victoria Surgery Center and Victoria Vision Center alerted patients of a data breach. In March, the practice found certain computer systems were inaccessible because of a malicious file encryption. 6. Medical Management Resource Group, doing business as American Vision Partners, experienced a cybersecurity incident affecting patient data. Information that may have been affected includes names, contact information, dates of birth, certain medical information, and in certain cases, Social Security numbers and insurance information. Scripps Health is concluding its centennial year with a $13.1 million payout to employees. The San Diego-based health system will provide awards of up to $1,000 each to more than 14,500 employees below the supervisor level, honoring their dedication. "As we wrap up our yearlong celebration of a remarkable milestone in Scripps' history the 100th anniversary of our founding in 1924 we wanted to recognize our hourly employees who show the unwavering compassion and commitment that is the cornerstone of the care we provide to our community," Scripps Health President and CEO Chris Van Gorder said in a news release shared with Becker's. Today, the system encompasses five hospital campuses, 30 outpatient centers and clinics, and numerous affiliated physician offices across the region. Scripps was founded as a small seaside hospital in La Jolla, Calif., was established with funding from journalist, media founder and philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps. The year-end awards are part of a broader $103.1 million investment in Scripps employees this year, which included a decision to get ahead of a minimum wage increase in California by granting its employees the largest pay increase in the organization's history. CMS has fined two hospitals for alleged price transparency violations, according to a Dec. 30 update on its price transparency enforcement website. Baytown (Texas) Medical Center was fined $50,711 for alleged violations and West Chase Houston Hospital was fined $44,251. Both fines were imposed Dec. 19, according to CMS records. Both hospitals have 30 or fewer beds, according to their fine notices. Neither hospital immediately responded to a request for comment on Dec. 31. CMS fined three hospitals for price transparency violations in 2024, compared with 12 in 2023. In July, CMS fined Miami-based Jackson Memorial Hospital $871,122 for alleged violations. With 1,550 beds, Jackson is the third-largest hospital in the U.S. by bed count and the largest to be fined for price transparency violations. In total, 17 hospitals have been fined since CMS began imposing penalties in 2022. Jenna Bedwell, MSN, RN, has been named interim chief nursing officer at Daviess Community Hospital in Washington, Ind. Ms. Bedwell previously served as the hospital's assistant director of nursing, according to a Dec. 30 news release. She succeeds Nancy Devine, BSN, RN, who held the role of chief nursing officer for eight years. Daviess Community Hospital recently experienced another leadership transition, as CEO Tracy Conroy stepped down Dec. 20 at the request of the hospital board. The 48-bed hospital includes six speciality clinics and six outpatient clinics, the release said. This story will be updated if more information becomes available. Black River Falls, Wis.-based Krohn Clinic, a multispecialty group, and Black River Memorial Hospital on Dec. 30 merged to create Black River Health. The decision to combine comes in response to growing healthcare challenges with Jackson County faring worse than the average county in Wisconsin for health outcomes, according to the organizations. "This partnership unites the strengths of both organizations, driven by a shared vision of delivering sustainable, high-quality care close to home, Carl Selvick, president and CEO of Black River Memorial, said in a news release. "It is a bold move to meet the evolving health needs of our community." Through this partnership, Black River Health said it aims to attract new providers, offer more specialties and improve more lives each year. "Both BRMH and Krohn Clinic are strong on their own, but together we can do even more to improve the health of our community," Michelle Clark-Forsting, MD, Krohn Clinic president and administrator, said. A key tenet of the partnership is maintaining the independence of each organization while working as a unified entity. Black River Health leadership will be shared between Dr. Clark-Forsting, who will become chief physician executive, and Mr. Selvick, who will serve as CEO. Local decision-making will remain at the forefront, ensuring that community needs guide Black River Health services. In 2024, nurses filed hundreds of safety concerns about two Massachusetts hospitals operated by Dallas-based Tenet Health. Most recently, a union representing these nurses alleged that understaffing caused two preventable patient deaths. In late September, a patient's dialysis treatment "was cut 30 minutes short so that the only dialysis nurse on-call could emergently dialyze a second unstable patient," according to the Massachusetts Nurses Association. The patient who received limited treatment died, and the other patient went into cardiac arrest and died before receiving treatment, the union said. The Massachusetts Nurses Association has raised numerous concerns about Worcester-based St. Vincent Hospital and Framingham Union Hospital for years. It said St. Vincent has "an ongoing and dire crisis," according to a complaint first reported by the Boston Globe and shared with Becker's on Dec. 30. The complaint, dated Dec. 3, was shared with the Joint Commission, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, CMS and KePRO, a beneficiary and family centered care quality improvement organization. In February 2024, after receiving more than 600 safety and staffing complaints, the Joint Commission found St. Vincent was noncompliant with some CMS conditions during an on-site visit. In March, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health said five of the six concerns raised by the unionized nurses were "unsubstantiated." Other safety concerns listed in the December complaint include "a deliberately punitive management culture," 96 hospital-acquired pressure ulcers from January to August, and unsafe intravenous fluid restrictions during a national shortage. The complaint also alleges that, in December 2023, a lack of supervision in telemetry care resulted in a patient escaping the floor, jumping from the parking garage, and experiencing serious injuries that led to his death. Here is the hospital's statement: "Saint Vincent Hospital remains focused on providing high-quality as well as regionally and nationally recognized healthcare services for our community. We do not condone the MNA's tactics of organizing publicity stunts, spreading false rumors and intimidating our colleagues. The MNA's accusations are disrespectful to the dedicated nurses, physicians and staff at Saint Vincent Hospital who prioritize caring for our patients. There is no doubt that these unfounded attacks are related to upcoming negotiations with the union at Saint Vincent, a tactic that the union uses in connection with contract negotiations with virtually all other systems across the state. We hope the MNA will reconsider its approach, and instead collaborate with us, and other systems facing similar staffing shortages, to increase healthcare access for the communities we serve." Nationwide rates of homicide fell in 2024, according to a Dec. 31 ABC News report. The news comes six months after Surgeon General Vivek Murphy, MD, declared gun violence a public health issue, a move widely supported by healthcare industry leaders. Based on data from 309 law enforcement agencies, there was an almost 16% nationwide drop in homicides and a 3.3% decline in violent crime overall, the report said. The nationwide homicide rate has been steadily dropping since 2022 after a 30% jump between 2019 and 2020. Dropping rates have been reported across the country in major cities as well by 40% in Philadelphia, 38% in New Orleans, 29% in Washington, D.C., 24% in Baltimore, 23% in Memphis, Tenn., 20% in Kansas City, Mo., 15% in Los Angeles, 7.3% in New York City and 7% in Chicago according to the report. "We see a very large decline in murder, a very large decline in gun violence happening in the U.S. in 2024," Jeff Asher, co-founder of AH Datalytics and former CIA crime analyst, told ABC News. "On top of what was a very large decline in murder and a very large decline in gun violence in 2023." The report credited firearm legislation and community-based initiatives dedicated to gun violence prevention and mental health services with influencing the declining rates. Robert Garrett, CEO of Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health, said gun violence is not a political issue, but a public health one directly connected to the healthcare industry. "We owe it to our children and the countless families that are being destroyed every day to take action, starting at the bedside in emergency rooms," he wrote in a June 27 editorial for Becker's with Aakash Shah, MD, medical director at Project HEAL and chief of addiction medicine, department of psychiatry and behavioral health at Hackensack Meridian's Neptune City-based Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Michael Dowling, CEO of New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell Health and organizer of the Gun Violence Prevention Learning Collaborative for Hospitals and Health Systems, also has applauded the surgeon general for recognizing gun violence as a national crisis. Read the full ABC News report here. The physician shortage is a pressing concern for healthcare, with radiology among the specialties facing some of the most significant challenges. The worldwide shortage of radiologists comes amid rising demand for their expertise, driven by an aging population and an unprecedented number of radiologists retiring after the stress of the pandemic. The American College of Radiology warns that the shortage will worsen as the number of imaging studies ordered continues to rise. The group forecasts that, by 2025, the number of annual imaging studies will surpass one billion, further straining an already burdened radiologist workforce. Much attention is being paid to this worrisome problem and the possible solutions, which range from the adoption of new artificial intelligence tools to federal legislation to increase funding for residency positions. Facts about the shortage A shortage of up to 42,000 radiologists is expected by 2033. The number of imaging studies increases by up to 5% per year, but the number of radiology residency positions only increases by 2%. Nearly half of U.S. radiologists are at retirement age. The radiology technologist vacancy rate is 18.1%, up from 6.2% only three years ago. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 4% job growth in radiology until 2033, resulting in more than 1,000 radiology job openings annually. According to a recent ACR bulletin these are the top reasons for the shortage: The U.S. population has increased at a faster rate than the number of radiologists being trained each year. The number of federally funded graduate medical education positions has remained relatively flat for the past 30 years. Growth in the number of nonphysician and physician providers has outpaced the increase in radiologists, leading to more imaging studies being ordered per provider. The increased incidence of cancer is fueling greater imaging needs. The volume and complexity of medical images have increased significantly, making each study more detailed and time-consuming for the radiologist. How will this shortage affect U.S. healthcare? The radiologist shortage is poised to significantly strain the U.S. healthcare system, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and care. On the ACR's job board, there are more than 1,800 open radiologist jobs. With those numbers, a dangerous bottleneck for patients could be created. An editorial in Diagnostic Imaging warns that the shortage could lead to increased turnaround times for study results, which can hinder patient outcomes. One study found that radiology imaging delays were associated with longer length of stays. Another study of more than 10,000 CT scans ordered through a single emergency department found that 42% of the time, it took more than three hours to get a report due to high radiology workload What are the possible solutions? Various short- and long-term solutions are needed to address the looming radiologist shortage. Here are five of the 17 strategies outlined in a recent study to address the shortage, narrowed down to three areas: people, process and physical infrastructure and resources. Augment the workforce with people in the short-term, including retaining radiologists in the workforce, recruiting international radiologists and building up the supply with nonphysicians to serve in support roles. Use retired radiologists as a potential untapped workforce. Job-sharing, part-time positions, per diem work and phased retirements could give senior radiologists more time in their clinical practice. Use radiology residents in fellowship programs to work part-time if allowed by their training program, providing a potential workforce of approximately 1,000 radiologists. Encourage the alternate pathway allowed by the American Board of Radiology for international medical graduates who are not planning to enter a standard radiology residency as a path to enter the U.S. radiology workforce. Hire reading room coordinators or assistants to provide administrative support to radiologists. How AI can help the radiologist shortage Industry leaders are evaluating AI as another potential solution to combat the growing shortage. These tools can quickly analyze images, improve the accuracy of image interpretations and help radiologists manage heavy workloads. However, healthcare leaders must ensure the safe and ethical implementation of such AI tools, researchers said. The ACR reports that around 60% of radiology departments in the U.S. have already adopted AI solutions or are evaluating their implementation. The FDA as of December has cleared about 1,000 clinical AI algorithms. Of these, close to 80% are for medical imaging. Radiology has the highest number of submissions and has the steadiest increase of AI-enabled device submissions of any specialty. How legislation can help the radiology shortage Researchers in the radiology field fear an imbalance between the number of radiology residents trained, the number of vacant radiology positions available and the escalating volume of imaging services. The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2023, introduced by U.S. Representatives Terri Sewell and Brian Fitzpatrick, proposes expanding the number of Medicare-supported medical residency positions by 14,000 over seven years. The ACR is pushing for passage of the bill as a possible solution for the growing demand for radiologists and other specialties. The Association of American Medical College also supports the bill, which is in the first phase of Congressional consideration. McKesson Medical-Surgical will shut down its Rock Hill, S.C.-based distribution center in the spring, marking the end of its decade-long operation in the area, The Post and Courier reported Dec. 30. The 300,000-square-foot facility will close in March, with nearly 200 employees set to be laid off. The company informed its workforce of the closure in September and a formal layoff notice was submitted to the state in December, according to the newspaper. McKesson Medical-Surgical, part of McKesson Corp., invested $27.5 million in the Rock Hill center when it opened a decade ago. It is one of the Richmond, Va.-based company's 22 distribution hubs across the nation. The closure is a part of McKesson's efforts to streamline operations and improve efficiency. "After a thorough review of our strategic and operational goals, we are making changes to our McKesson Medical-Surgical organization to drive operational efficiencies and simplify our infrastructure," company spokesperson Teri Mitchell told the Post and Courier. In the role, Dr. Freeland will oversee the development of orthopedic services at the medical center. Dr. Freeland specializes in the treatment of foot and ankle disorders. He joined Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Centers orthopedic team in September 2023. Prior to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, Dr. Freeland served as an orthopedic surgeon at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, N.J. The appointment is effective Jan. 1, 2025, the report said. New year brings trepidation for Northern Ireland business after eventful 2024 Companies are entering 2025 with trepidation over how to manage soaring overheads, writes Margaret Canning In a year of big corporate transactions in Northern Ireland, the sale of Harland & Wolff plc to Navantia was the most significant (Liam McBurney/PA) Margaret Canning Tue 31 Dec 2024 at 18:53 From a boost to confidence over the restoration of the Assembly to dismay over tax increases in the UK Budget, 2024 brought ever-changing moods for business in NI. 'Ive had this girl examined by a doctor and she is pregnant. And you are the cause of it': The remarkable story of historic Irish case